Fifty-seven years ago on this date – April 2, 1968 – the movie 2001: A Space Odyssey premiered. It was born as a short story by Arthur C. Clarke, who then co-wrote the screenplay with Stanley Kubrick and published the novel simultaneously with the movie release.

Why is this important to writers? Because the development of 2001 reflects many writers’ Nirvana: an idea becomes a short story, then a screenplay and a novel. It’s the trifecta of an author’s ambition. Gulf Coast Writers has among its membership several who self-identify as sci-fi writers. Godspeed to you all as you create the unimaginable. We hope to see you on screen and in print.

Be sure to enter your sci-fi or other fiction, poetry or nonfiction piece in the GCWA Writing Contest. You have until June 30 to craft and send in your masterpiece. And please volunteer to be a judge in any category you’re not entering. Let Claudia G. know (twogforce@yahoo.com).

Our next meeting is Saturday, April 19th at 10 AM at the Lakes Regional branch of the Lee County Public Library (15290 Bass Road, Ft Myers). Author Art Wenk will start our program promptly at 10 AM with insight into writing and publishing murder mysteries. Then we’ll welcome back Sean Martinelli, who has taken his heart-to-heart TV news stories from Fort Myers to DC. Come early and get a good seat. The room will be packed.

Beginning Saturday May 17, we have a new home at St. Hilary’s Episcopal Church, Browning Hall, 5011 McGregor Blvd. in Fort Myers, just east of the Cape Coral Midpoint Bridge. Our presenter has info every writer needs.

Mark your calendar for Saturday November 8, 2025, to celebrate the 30^th anniversary of GCWA! This milestone event will feature a special luncheon where members, editors, and word enthusiasts can connect with fellow literary minds and our honored guests. Your anniversary committee is working tirelessly and creatively to bring us together for an inspiring day. You’ll want to be there.