RISING STARS--HISTORY & OVERVIEW

CELEBRATE W.COM'S RISING STARS

"Absolutely fab idea. It's something on WDC that's definitely worth being called brilliant...
Keep it up!" reilly ~ working hard

The "Rising Stars" Program was founded to promote mutual support between writers on the forum.
It is with great pleasure that we celebrate and reward emerging talent in the vast impressive world of black
suitcases. At the same time, we hope to add value to Writing.Com's work, building and sustaining this
remarkable resource for writers on the internet.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

"Awesome! The Rising Stars project and the whole ethos behind it is wonderful and inspiring.
It means so much to be part of such a special group. Support, encouragement; and the recognition and
nurturing of potential are what healthy communities should be all about in my humble opinion. Thanks for
putting that spirit of community right at the heart of WDC." Mark C

FIVE EASY STEPS

Preferred Authors and Moderators: Adopt a talented writer with a black suitcase to provide much needed
encouragement and support. This is a wonderful rewarding experience. We hope you'll develop a meaningful,
mutually supportive friendship, one that doesn't take time away from your other obligations but complements
your work as a writer and enthusiastic member of W.Com Follow these 5 easy steps to make a difference in
the life of an emerging writer:

1) Select a TALENTED writer with a black suitcase who has been a member on W.Com for a minimum of 3
months. Check our list of current awardees to avoid selecting a writer who has already been honored;

2) Email the name of your prospect to GabriellaR45. Once approved, your candidate will be sent an invitation
to join our family of Rising Stars.

3) Promote your writer. Add a link to your new Rising Star's portfolio to your "Who's Online" billboard listing.
We'll be happy to walk you through the process. Be sure you're here and as visible as possible while you're
promoting a Rising Star;

4) Nurture/mentor your Rising Star. Continue to offer support: rate and review items in your writer's portfolio;

5) Each "Rising Star" with a black suitcase chosen for this honor will receive Rising Stars' Award of
Excellence for one piece you will select in your adoptee's portfolio.

ONCE ON BOARD, Both Sponsors and "Rising Stars" are expected to review just 3 pieces in the portfolios
of fellow Rising Stars each month. Oue focus is on fostering quality reviews that are well written and useful.
New "Stars" are also invited to join our monthly Rising Stars Shining Bright" contest and participate in programs
and workshops as they surface throughout the calendar year.

Each month all year long, each and every Rising Star is eligible to be selected "Best of Rising Stars" !
During the winter or summer months, we typically host a Festival of Weekly Writing Clinics. And, we constantly
look for and invite talented authors on W.Com who have been published to provide useful information to those
members of our program who are interested in having their work published via Rising Stars Publishing Place.
___________________________________________________________________________________________

"WE LOVE YOU RISING STARS: "What a wonderful program! God bless you for the fantastic work
you do supporting 'family members' here at Writing.com... may your lives brim with joy and blessings as rich
and treasured as those bestowed so graciously by Rising Stars ! "
Of Fire Born ~ welcome, 2012!
_________________________________________________________________________________

TAKE A MINI-TOUR OF OUR PROGRAM

___________________________________________________________________________________

INFORMATION ON HOW RISING STARS ARE SELECTED:
SIGN ON TO BECOME A SPONSOR:
OUR RISING STARS AWARDEES:

ID: 1212991   (Rated: E) How Rising Stars are Selected  Information on how Rising Stars are selected by Gabriella

ID: 1385202   (Rated: E) RISING STARS 2006-2011  Complete Lists of Rising Stars. by Gabriella

ID: 1338785   (Rated: E) Becoming a Rising Stars Sponsor  For Preferred Authors and Moderators. by Gabriella

__________________________________________________________________________________________

BUILDING COMMUNITY



A WONDERFUL NEW COLLABORATION WITH CIRCLE OF SISTERS: A
MONTHLY CONTEST OPEN TO ALL OF OUR RISING STARS

Through collaboration with the Rising Star Program, the Circle of Sisters is
launching a new contest open to Rising Star recipients only.

On a monthly basis, you'll be given the chance to submit one item from your
portfolio for review by our judging panel.

This team is comprised solely of Circle of Sisters members, who are sponsoring
this effort for the purpose of recognizing those writers who continue to amaze us
with their talent and contributions to the WDC community.

ID: 1215871   (Rated: E) Rising Stars Shining Brighter  Contest for existing Rising Stars...Monthly award of "Shining Star" status. by Tornado Day

_________________________________________________________________________________________
AN IMPRESSIVE NEW ADDITION TO OUR PROGRAM SET UP TO HIGHLIGHT OUR
NEWEST RISING STARS EACH MONTH :

A Very Special Collaboration: "The Angel Army" announces plans to add "Rising Stars" Awardees to its
Family of Reviewees:

"The Angel Army" is made up of individuals around the forum, who volunteer their time and effort in promoting
a positive atmosphere around WDC. Our angels are responsible for welcoming, introducing, guiding and
nurturing newbies to WDC, by reviewing items in their portfolio, or being a mentor for as long as they are needed.
We review and help 'seasoned' writers by offering port raids, or simply leaving an encouraging word or two.
"The Angel Army" also provides upgrades through our "Angel Review Forum" where deserving authors are
recognized for their achievement.

ID: 1188305   (Rated: ASR) The WDC Angel Army  A group dedicated to promoting positive WDC spirit! Join us today! by iKïyå§ama

We are honored to work with "Celebrate W.Com's Rising Stars" by offering our reviewing services to recently
awarded black cases. Our angels will be made aware of who these awardees are, and will do their best
to visit their portfolios and provide the encouragement and support they need."
iKïyå§ama

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
RISING STARS EXCITING NEW PROGRAMS


15 workshops sold out each year in March. Let us know if
you'd like to be added to our mailing list for the next series.
Gabriella

ID: 1321091   (Rated: E) WInter Festival of 15 Weeklong Workshops  Weekly workshops open to the community. by Gabriella

ID: 1525565   (Rated: E) PUBLISHING PLACE  Help for Emerging Writers Looking to Navigate the Wide World of Publishing Options. by Gabriella

ID: 1618440   (Rated: E) Rising Stars BOOK CLUB  An informal group of writers who enjoy reading books & sharing feedback by Gabriella

__________________________________________________________________________________________

HOW RISING STARS IS SUPPORTED:

MAKE A CONTRIBUTION TO RISING STARS AWARD FUND TO CELEBRATE
OUR RISING STARS AND CO-SPONSOR AN AWARDICON

ID: 1199870   (Rated: E) RISING STARS CHARITABLE FUND  Celebrate our 5th year with a generous donation ! by Gabriella

DONOR LEVELS:

Merit Badges & Rising Star "Star Donor" Signature awarded to:

Gold Star Supporter: individual gift of 125,000+gift points
Platinum Star Supporter: individual gift of 75,000+gift points
Silver Star Supporter: individual gift of 50,000+gift points
Brass Star Supporter: individual gift of 30,000+gift points

Merit Badges are also awarded to:
Friends of Rising Stars for gifts of awardicons to Rising Stars
forums/folders.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

FUNDRAISERS SET UP TO BENEFIT RISING STARS:


PURCHASE "WICKETS" ---support Rising Stars
Heartfelt thanks to Ladyoz

ID: 1213802   (Rated: E) Adopt a Wicket!  Help raise funds for the Rising Stars - adopt a Wicket! (It's a cute customisable sig.) by Ladyoz

The beauty of this program is it is easy and informal. The gift you give is truly meaningful.
Emerging writers are especially grateful for the interest and encouragement we offer. SPONSORS &
CONTRIBUTORS will be recognized here on this site with much gratitude. {/center}


___________________________________________________________________________________

GIVING THANKS FOR A SUNNY CONTRIBUTION !


The Lemonade Stand is proud to present
"Rising Stars" with a pitcher full of
25,000 gift points !

ID: 1196687   (Rated: E) The Lemonade Stand --HIATUS  It's back!!! Big TY to Madame Lunacy for this opportunity! Come check it out! by Stephanie Grace ♥G-MEN!

Take a moment to make a generous contribution !

_______________________________________________________________________________________

SEND A GREETING CARD IN SUPPORT OF RISING STARS



An Outstanding NEW fundraiser for Rising Stars !
Send these beautiful greeting cards to your friends in support of two of
W.Com's leading charities.

ID: 1534467   (Rated: E) Chi Notes 3: Fantasy  Add your poem, praise, or thanks for a custom c-note. Fairies, nature, yin yang, flowers. by Kimchi

ID: 1579082   (Rated: E) Dance with Joy  "Dance with Joy" C-Notes ~ Uplifting Messages ~ Benefits "The Rising Stars" by bluesky

ID: 1403172   (Rated: E) Springing Hope  C-Notes for Spring ~ Benefits "The Rising Stars" by bluesky

ID: 1420982   (Rated: E) Elegant Poetry cNotes  cNotes with poetry by W.com members - for love, friendship, spring and summer! by Ladyoz

{/center}


Special recognition is due ShiShad for her many wonderful donations to Rising Stars !
_________________________________________________________________________________________

ENCOURAGING OUR RISING STARS TO GET INVOLVED IN THE
COMMUNITY----VOLUNTEER FOR: "TALENT POND", a wonderful eclectic program chock full of
delightful activities. Join ANGEL ARMY, a spectacular program designed to promote collaboration
and a strong sense of community on W.Com. While you're looking, check out "SIMPLY POSITIVE,"
a large-scale reviewing program led by one of Rising Stars most cherished members and sponsors


Sign up to volunteer just a few hours each week !

ID: 1188309   (Rated: ASR) The WDC Angel Army  Dedicated to promoting positivity, encouragement and support to the WDC community. by iKïyå§ama

ID: 1384147   (Rated: E) Simply Positive Forum  A group dedicated to spreading honesty and positivity with great incentives. by SHERRI GIBSON LUVS SP

OUR OWN COMMUNITY OF BRIGHT STARS: AWARDEES, SPONSORS, DONORS,
IN-KIND CONTRIBUTORS, AND FULL-TIME VOLUNTEERS.





image:1184382
beautiful signatures: kelly1202



"RISING STAR" AWARDEES

"This is a great idea. It seems like such a good way to promote a positive
feeling throughout the writing community. There seems to be many different ways to encourage new
writers on this site and encouragement is the best way to keep us writing''
Sabankat

Check out our up-to-date list of TALENTED "RISING STARS"

ID: 1385202   (Rated: E) RISING STARS 2006-2011  Complete Lists of Rising Stars. by Gabriella

KUDOS TO OUR BELOVED SPONSORS:

ID: 1218003   (Rated: E) Rising Stars' PROUD SPONSORS  Rising Stars Sponsors selected from our founding to the present. by Gabriella

ID: 1270171   (Rated: E) Prospective Sponsors--Sign up Here   Preferred Authors & Moderators: Join us--adopt & mentor writers with black suitcases. by Gabriella

WARMEST THANKS TO OUR ANGELIC DONORS

ID: 1199870   (Rated: E) RISING STARS CHARITABLE FUND  Celebrate our 5th year with a generous donation ! by Gabriella

CONTRIBUTIONS:

Send your gift points to Rising Stars:

ID: 1199870   (Rated: E) RISING STARS CHARITABLE FUND  Celebrate our 5th year with a generous donation ! by Gabriella

BEHIND THE SCENES:

Gabriella Founding Director
Love you, Lyle! Leader, Member-to-Member Reviewing Program/Members Lounge
~AJ Lyle~ Leader: RS Rewarding Reviewers Program
mystic_writer Leader, Book Club
Nicki D89 Leader, Teen Writing Contest (on hiatus)
MDuci Leader, Monthly Rising Stars Shining Bright Contest
Tornado Day Leader, Monthly Rising Stars Shining Bright Contest
Kimchi Leader, "Best of Rising Stars"
SoCalScribe is 9 today! Leader, Special Events/Fundraisers
Black Willow - away Co-Leader, Special Events/Fundraisers

Special thanks: Love you, Lyle! Paper Doll Gang, Tornado Day and
MDuci , Circle of Sisters

Program Instructors:

Nicki D89
Ladyoz
bluesky
ShiShad
MetaphorSquared
MDuci
AXiLeA
Bernie Thomas
Cubby
arakun the twisted raccoon
Acme
HuntersMoon - Gone4Awhile
Carol St. Ann
Max Griffin
TimM


Judges: "Best of Rising Stars"

Kimchi
ShiShad
ReikiScreamer
W~W Gone Fishing!
Cubby
Maryann
Pat ~Rising Star Sapphire Aude
NOVAcatmando
Gabriella

Rising Stars is blessed to be able to rely on
the encouragement, remarkable support,
and guidance of these dear very talented friends
who have devoted themselves in great part to
Rising Stars' development and continue to
serve as our strongest and most active members.

Senior Advisors:
MDuci
Tornado Day
SHERRI GIBSON LUVS SP
Ladyoz
ShiShad
Love you, Lyle!
Kate~Rune Writing & Reading

Monthly Contest:
Circle of Sisters

Graphics:
♥SoNNetWolF♫
iKïyå§ama
Raider Capt. J.R.
Ladyoz
* §apph *
~*~Damiana Renewed~*~
Kimchi
Rose:Back in School
Mike ~ The Knight Ranger
Gothic Angel gone
Max Griffin
Humming bird-glad to be back
Love you, Lyle!
Rogue♥SimplyPos+WDC
Anastasia V. Pergakis

Event/Contest Fundraisers:
Tornado Day
SoCalScribe is 9 today!
MDuci
The Music Man
bluesky
Carol St. Ann
Love you, Lyle!
Jewel Busy Busy Busy!
WhoMe???
*~ Karis ~ THANKS, GAB! ~*
emerin-liseli
Black Willow - away
SHERRI GIBSON LUVS SP
~GG
Rose:Back in School
Raider Capt. J.R.
simply_complex
Mike ~ The Knight Ranger
RIPGizmo-March2004-Feb 13 2012
Sisco ~ Away ~



We welcome your CONTRIBUTIONS: Send them to GROUP #1199870


Signature: ~*~Damiana Renewed~*~





THANK YOU FOR YOUR FABULOUS FEEDBACK !

"Nice job on welcoming new members and encouraging them, as well"
The StoryMistress

"This is a wonderful asset to the site" Pass it on


"This is simply a great way of making a writer feel at home here at WDC! I commend
you on this sensational idea, and wish you the very best of luck!"
SHERRI GIBSON LUVS SP

"Thank you" To EVERYONE for your support and encouragement. Without that, I would
have left WDC before I ever gave it a chance.
luvleepoet

" Top ratings for you. I think it's a superb idea, for obvious reasons."
Discordancy

" This is a creative and brilliant idea to showcase a new member of wdc and afford the
potential of additional reviews and encouragement for his or her work. As a forum, the opening
invites the casual visitor to read further, check out the names of the stars and the sponsors ~ a
good venue for their work as well to be read and reviewed onsite. The parameters, 'rules' and
timetables are all easy to understand. Hope to see this continue for a long time to
come ^_^ " Kate~Rune Writing & Reading

" This is a wonderful project you have going, great work"
Laurencia

" Thanks you to those that give their time to this worthy cause"
Rustys GOOF

" What a lovely idea! More power to you - encouraging each other is what I like best about
WDC. Almost makes me wish I was a professional member and could sponsor someone myself.
Since I can't, please use the attached GPs to further your good work"
Outasync: Editing

" What a wonderful way to acknowledge so much of the amazing talent that is here
on WDC. Bravo!" Hugs, DusktilDawn ~ one day at a tim

" WDC is the better place to find honest critics. What a great idea to showcase talent"
klvanat

"It was a great honor to be recognized by this outstanding forum! I hope more preferred
authors take advantage of this forum and boost the morale of those struggling to fit in and make
themselves known" Blind Dreamer

"Wonderful work! Keep it up!" Laserfox

"I think this is such a great idea. What a great way to keep a postive feel
throughout the community" Everydaywriting

"This is a spectacular idea! I'm surprised no one has thought up something like this
beforehand! Everything looks well-thought out and definitely inviting"
♥ just jess ♥

"Your Rising Star program is incredible! There is nothing more inspiring than being sponsored,
awarded, and recognized as a Rising Star. I truly thank you and my sponsor Sherri Gibson from the
bottom of my heart for this most cherished and distinguished honor. Please accept this contribution
to keep your program going."
SamLBInj The Biker Poet

"I love this idea. Encouragement is what this site is all about. I remember how thrilled I was
with each and every recognition"
selene {/justify}