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Beaver, AJ
(Illustrator)
A.J. Beaver, illustrator of the first in the Meriwether Mystery series,The Recluse of Iffley Village, is a native of West Texas and resides in Snyder, Texas.

A jack of all trades and history buff, A.J. makes his living ranching, as his father and father’s fathers have done before him. 





      Beaver, Emily
      (Author)

      Emily Beaver, first time author, lives in Snyder, Texas and teaches Theatre Arts at the local junior high.  She and illustrator/cowboy husband, A.J. are natives of West Texas.  Together, they have three young children.

      After graduating from Abilene Christian University in 1996 with a degree in English literature, Emily taught for three years; then stayed home with her children for seven.

      In the fall of 2005, she began writing her premier novel, The Recluse of Iffley Village, meant to be the first in a series of Meriwether Mysteries targeting adolescents, ages 9 to 14.

      Writing and publishing a novel represents the culmination of a lifelong dream for Emily.  Always an avid reader, she is delighted to share stories of her own with a new generation of young readers.
      Bernal, Chrissy
      (Author)

      Sienna’s mom, Chrissy Bernal, grew up in Houston , TX where she started writing short stories as a young girl.  She received many awards for her writing abilities as a child and as an adult. One award she received was a scholarship from the Houston Press. 

      She received her BA in Mass Communications/Journalism from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor.  During her studies there, she played on the women’s volleyball team, continued to compete in creative writing and performance competitions and was Editor for the school’s newspaper, The Bells.  She also has a background in Marketing and Creative Design. 

      Aside from being an author, Chrissy is also a certified personal trainer and consultant in the fitness industry.  The Bernal family still lives in the Houston area.  She and her husband have three kids and two dogs.  It is Chrissy’s vision that others would be inspired and educated through her writings and would see that they have the ability to do great things once they allow themselves to see that what makes them unique can be what makes them great.
      Brockman, Annette
      (Author)

      I have celebrated two years clean and sober.  In the two years of my sobriety I have written and published a book of poetry called, “A Life Worth Mending”, and have started a non-profit ministry called “Broken Chains Ministry”.  My vision is to offer hope to those suffering in their addiction through God. 

      The mission of my ministry is the educating and motivating those bound by various addictions through the written and spoken word.  That is why I have written these books. 

      It takes courage to begin your recovery.  There are going to be stormy seas and many times what you think is going to be a safe harbor is really shallow and rocky water.  Let Christ, the one who loves you most, be the lighthouse that guides you to a safe shore.

      Burns, Leah
      (Author)

      Mom, motivational speaker, teacher, chaplain, youth director, and now, Leah Burns has successfully earned the title of author.  While serving in ministry in several different capacities over the years, Leah has entertained many different audiences by tying laughter, scripture and knowledge into memorable experiences.  No matter the title, you can always find her at the Christian book and gift store that she and her sister own and operate or on her small ranch with her daughters in Hockley, Texas.






      Cerny, Cindy
      (Author)


      Cindy Cerny was born and raised in Glen Flora, Texas.  The Author resides in Friendly Corner, a small community outside of El Campo, Texas.  She has a son and daughter who are currently attending college.
        
      Her lifestyle focuses around her family; her husband’s farming operation; her position as City Secretary for the City of El Campo; and eight dogs who add much spice to her life.

      Cranek, Russell
      (Author)

      Born and raised in the small town of Garwood, TX, Russell Cranek grew up with two loves – baseball and writing. He took the two and decided to write a story based on numerous true events that he experienced through his lifetime. With the game and his ability to write held close to his heart, Russell considers his family’s unconditional love and support to be the driving force in everything he has accomplished thus far.

      He attended Texas A&M University while pursuing a degree in Sport Management with a minor in business. To fulfill his degree, Russell then completed an internship with the Houston Astros, which he used as the moral backbone behind ‘Charlie’s Dream’. In his free time, Russell likes to spend time with his family and write poetry, as well as music. Looking forward to the opportunity, Russell hopes that his work will one day have a positive effect on the lives of the individuals who take the time to read it. 




      Crosby, Mary
      (Author)
      Author, Mary Crosby effectively leads the reader just to where she has promised ... to the feet of the Savior in the land that he has prepared for those who serve Him.

      Positively sharing what the Lord has given her, Crosby makes the journey's road bright with the truth and illuminates where the pilgrim might stumble.
                           
      The reward is...
                                                                                          and at the end of the journey,

                                                                                                   a robe and crown.
       
                          


      Diaz, Bert
      (Author)

      Albert was born and raised in Houston, Texas.  A twenty-seven year retired Texas law enforcement officer with over twenty years involved in the investigation of Homicides, Suicides, Aggravated Assaults, Sexual Assaults, Covert Narcotic Operations, Narcotic Money Laundering Operations.  Albert’s career included positions as a Detentions Deputy, Patrol Deputy, Detective and a Lieutenant’s position overseeing the Jail division, the Homicide division and the Narcotics division for the 3rd largest Sheriff’s Office in the nation.  Albert has a beautiful wife of ten years and is raising three sons 21,17, and 9.  Albert or “Bert” as many friends call him is currently the owner and chief investigator of a privately owned Investigations company.



      Farmer, Pat
      (Author)

      A wife, mom, and grandmother = fabulous 50! – Pat Farmer. I have a wonderful family and extended family that is my all! I have been married 33 years and I have 3 children; two of which have a family of their own and one who still is in college. At this time I have 4 joyous grandchildren who teach their Nanny something new everyday.

      I have lived on the coast all of my life, and I am a simple, ordinary gal that loves the bay! Everyone’s objective in life is to find significance and security. God uses us to spread His love and the truth that is revealed through His creation. Luke 18:17 says, “Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it. “ 

      After years of searching my natural God given yearning to go and tell, I am a first time author of a children’s book for all ages- The Reel Story!

      To contact the author for speaking engagement bookings or for a "Reel" live Bible lesson, contact: pfarm_7@yahoo.com


       

      Hollis, Ginger
      (Author)
      Ginger was born and raised in El Campo, Texas.  In 2001, she graduated from Sam Houston State University with a teaching degree.  Ginger taught Pre-K and Kindergarten for several years.  Her husband, Greg ad their son and daughter live in Navasota, Texas.

       Ginger has loved writing since she was a small child.  Even before she knew how to put a pencil to paper, she was already discovering the art of story telling by using her vivid imagination to create stories for her family and friends.  Ginger wrote personalized poetry for special occasions.  Ginger was inspired to develop her talent of writing from teachers as well as studying poets such as Robert Frost and Emily Dickinson.

       Ginger’s dream to be a children’s author came true when her books “The Pumpkin Gift” and “Tootie the Tumbleweed” were published.  Quoting Ginger…”I’ve always felt like books were the greatest gift you could give a child.  Books are learning tools, vehicles to imaginary places, pieces of someone’s heart and when loved by children, classics, something that will never grow old or be thrown away.  Getting to be the author of children’s books is a dream come true for me.  I feel so blessed that God has provided me with this opportunity to inspire and teach children.  Besides parenting, I would have to say, it is the most rewarding job on earth.”



      Johnson, Troi
      (Author)

      The author lives with his family in the Gulf Coast town of Freeport, Texas where he serves the community as a police officer.











      Justelien, Zoe
      (Author)
      I grew up on a farm in South Louisiana.  My parents grew sugar cane.  I have been writing as a hobby for about thirty years.  My husband and I now live in the country near Markham, Texas with our two dogs.









      Martinez, Irene
      (Author)
      Irene Martinez is a life long resident of Victoria, Texas. Along with her husband of forty-five years, Julian, Irene lives for her son, Michael, as well as her four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.  She enjoys a very special relationship with her two daughters-in-law and the rest of her loving extended family.  Her hobbies include reading, camping and playing with her dogs Maggie and Molly.









      Miska, Kaylyn
      (Author)

      Author, Kaylyn Miska, grew up out in the country where she spent many days using her imagination making adventures come alive in her own backyard. Kaylyn is a graduate of Abilene Christian University with a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education and a specialization in reading.  Over the years, she has taught elementary and junior high school and been a stay-at-home mom. She loves to write, read, and is an artist as well!  Kaylyn enjoys spending lots of time reading to her two little girls and listening to the stories they create! Kaylyn lives in Wharton, Texas with her two daughters and her outstanding husband Carter, where she is currently working on writing and illustrating future books.




      Moore, Patsy
      (Author)
      Patsy Moore and her husband Robert are Pastors of God’s Way Fellowship in Cuero, Texas.  She has spoken at churches about her miraculous healing and still preaches about God’s mercy toward her and her family.

      Patsy has been a talk show host, radio personality/manager as well as a published song writer and a professional artist as well.  Her music is praise and worship.  She paints in watercolors, oils, pastels and acrylics and specializes in landscapes, buildings, animals and portraiture.  Her paintings have hung in various galleries in Texas.







      Nichols, Brenda
      (Illustrator)
      Brenda Nichols is an educator at the university level with over twenty years of experience.  She is currently the Head Women's Basketball Coach and Professor of Kinesiology at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas.  She holds an Associate of Arts degree from Western Texas College in Snyder, Texas, a Bachelor's degree from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, and a Master's degree from The University of West Florida in Pensacola, Florida.   Brenda volunteers locally by mentoring students and through motivational speaking engagements at schools and various civic organizations as well as coaching YMCA and city league youth sports in the community.  She has been married to Barry for over twenty years and they have two sons and a daughter.  Brenda was born in New Orleans and was raised in Jennings, Louisiana.  

      Brenda Nichols is the Head Women's Basketball Coach at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas.  She holds degrees from Western Texas College, Sam Houston State University, and The University of West Florida.  Brenda and her husband have two sons and a daughter.  They volunteer their time coaching YMCA and city league youth sports.  Brenda was born in New Orleans and raised in Jennings, Louisiana.







        Nichols, Nick
        (Author)

        Swami Nichols lives on the
        South Texas Coast.

        Inn Keeper, Sailor and Raconteur.

        …seeks the other shore.



        Nye, C.E.
        (Author)

        C.E. Nye was a child raised in a broken home in Tulsa, Oklahoma.  Although he had many struggles during his younger years, his father introduced him to the Lord’s Prayer at an early age. This was the beginning of Nye’s poetic journey.   He has searched for years for peace, joy, and fruit throughout the Southwestern United States, and he has seemed to find that the only true joy in life is being bound with freedom.  He is now the father of two children and resides near Houston, Texas.





        O'Bannion, Brenda
        (Author)
        Brenda was born in East Texas and lived most of her childhood in East Texas and lived most of her childhood there.   As an adult she has lived in both East and South Texas.  She is a graduate of Stephen F. Austin University and taught elementary students for 18 years.  She currently lives with her husband in Victoria, Texas where she works as an administrator for the Region Three Education Service Center.

        From the time she was 10 years old, writing has been a part of Brenda’s life.  As an elementary student, she always participated in UIL writing events and later, wrote for her high school newspaper.  As an adult she has written many stories for her students and, more recently, for her granddaughter.  Quoting Brenda…”For me, writing is just necessary.  It is both relaxing and stimulating.  Nothing is more difficult than searching for just the right way to say something; but then, nothing feels better than getting it just right!  Knowing that my stories will be in the hands of children and will help foster a love of reading in them is truly a blessing for me.”

        Aside from writing, Brenda enjoys spending time with her children and grandchild.  She also enjoys quilting and teaching quilting classes.




        Ondrias, Rachel
        (Author)

        Rachel was born and raised in Wharton, Texas.  In 1994 she graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University.  She teaches 1st grade at Myatt Elementary School in El Campo, Texas.  Her husband, Gavin and their son and daughter live in El Campo.

        Rachel has been writing since she was a child.  She enjoyed writing poetry and short stories while growing up.  Her love for writing became a passion after taking a three week course called the New Jersey Writing Project.  This is where she wrote her first two stories, “Kolby, the Skating Bear from Kalamazoo” and “There’s a Pig in my Fridge.”  These were her first two published books.

        Other inspirations for Rachel’s writing come from her love of reading and her vivid imagination.  She grew up with parents reading to her and taking her to the library.  She passes her love of reading to her children and her passion for writing to her students.  Rachel likes to write about subjects that are humorous and that will stretch a person’s imagination.




        Perry, Delene
        (Author)
        Author, Delene Perry, grew up on a farm in the flat and dusty plains of West Texas.  The daughter of a sharecropper, Delene learned early the art of storytelling as she joined family and friends weaving tales in the cool of the evening.

        Perry now lives and writes her stories from her beautiful home nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of New Mexico with her husband of forty-five years.







        Phillips,         Judy
        (Author)
        Judy Phillips is an educator with over twenty years of experience and is currently a counselor at Samuel Houston Elementary School in Huntsville, Texas.  Judy holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas and a Master of Education degree in Counseling from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas.  Judy volunteers locally with university students through local ministries and mentor programs.  She has been married to Jerry for over twenty-seven years and has two grown daughters and a son-in-law.  Judy was born in the small East Texas town of Kirbyville, Texas.


        Reed, F. Jean
        (Author)
        Jean Reed’s talents take her far beyond the poetry in this book.  A full-time teacher by trade, Jean is also known as a gifted inspirational / motivational speaker, songwriter and missionary. 

        Reared by two loving and nurturing parents in the small town of Magnolia, Texas, Jean and her five siblings were blessed by a rare sense of community, family and church.    

         The author’s unique style of writing is peppered with memories of her childhood experiences in the part of Magnolia known as “Butler’s Crossing”.    Her poetry and prose will take you on a journey from the innocence of childhood to the sophistication of an adult woman while illuminating her views on life, love, God and freedom.

        Jean is a graduate of Magnolia High School and Prairie View A & M University and currently teaches school in the Bay City ISD, Bay City, Texas.  An active member of Roy Memorial Church of God in Christ in Wharton, Texas, Jean finds numerous venues for her talent.  In addition, Jean is a member of the Texas Classroom Teachers Association, Texas Middle School Association, Sweeny District Church of God in Christ and the Texas Southeast First Jurisdiction. 







        Ruffner, Wendie
        (Author)
        A Texas native, Wendie graduated from Wofford College in South Carolina and pursued a career in accounting before her growing family prompted a career change.  An opportunity to live overseas took her family to Scotland where her words were inspired by the sheep in the fields and the rich tapestry of Scottish life. 

        Currently, Wendie lives in The Woodlands, Texas with her husband Chris and their four children.  While most of her time is spent with her children, she also teaches at Oak Ridge Christian Academy and works on capturing more of her Scottish memories for readers to enjoy.


        Ryan, Ann
        (Author / Illustrator)

        Ann Ryan is a life long resident of Bay City, Texas. She and her husband of 45 years, Paul, built and moved into a log home with their four girls in 1977. The country setting is perfect for their four daughters, their husbands, seven grandchildren and one great grandson to visit.
         
        She has always loved to create. She made Halloween and dancing costumes for her girls and now for the grandchildren. Painting became a hobby and then a business as she and her daughter Jennifer created a company called "The Attic Door" featuring children’s hand painted furniture and accessories.
         
        She has always enjoyed writing poetry for invitations and special occasions. Her family encouraged her to write a children’s book featuring some of the characters and drawings she has used on her furniture. Because each child is so special in their own way but always want to be something else " Little Wannbee" was born.



        Scarborough, Casey
        (Illustrator)
        Casey Scarborough is a graduate of Sam Houston State University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree.

        Casey is an avid sportsman as well as a gifted artist.  He resides in Pearland, TX with wife K.C. and son Brady.

        Along with his work as an illustrator, Casey also teaches art and coaches golf in Pearland, TX.






        Schwede, Betty Wesner
        (Author)
        The author of the book “Gallinas Canyon, Past to Present” was born in Las Vegas, New Mexico.  She attended school in Las Vegas and graduated from Las Vegas (Robertson) High School.

        She went to Mac Murray College in Jacksonville, Illinois and graduated form Colorado in Denver, Colorado.  She followed a career as secretary and bookkeeper after leaving college.

        The author lives in New Mexico.






        Sebesta, Marilyn
        (Author)

        Although Scout, The Dog Who Saved "The Nutcracker" is Marilyn Sebesta's first book,  she is no stranger to working with children in the field of education.   She has served as a County Extension Agent (Texas Cooperative Extension, Now known as Texas AgriLife Extension Service)  for 36 Years.  As such, She worked with youths and adults in areas of leadership, health & wellness and community development.

        She Lives in Wharton, Texas where she enjoys preparing musical presentations, volunteering for civic and church activities and keeping in touch with friends and family.



        Other Products in the Scout Series:






        Shannon, Pat
        (Author)
        Pat Shannon was born and bred in Newgulf, Texas in the early 1930’s. At that time, Newgulf was a small town that was shielded from the rest of the world and, according to Pat, "believe me we knew it, but truly it was a great place for growing up." She graduated from Boling High School and then also from Wharton County Junior College.

        Pat married Frank Shannon, Jr. in 1951 and had two sons, Frank III and Paul. "We didn’t have much money, but our love for each other held us together," said Pat, who now lives in the old homestead with "Chica" her tabby cat, and is thrilled to finally have this work in print. "Although I am not a writer, I am ecstatic to be embarking on this new literary career. At age 75, this project has been one of the highlights of my life!"





        Sherrill, Bill
        (Illustrator)
        W. S. Sherrill is a famous waterfowl outfitter in the south region of Texas, covering Wharton, Pierce and the Hungerford prairies When he is not busy with hunting season, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Peggy, fishing and gardening. W. S. is a graduate of Sam Houston State University with a degree in industrial arts and education.

        Aside from his waterfowl talents, he also paints a wide variety of waterfowl wildlife pictures.

        W. S. Sherrill is the father of children’s author, Kaylyn Miska. Side-by-side their writing and artistry talents have greatly complemented each other to bring to life this hot pink hyena adventure!





        Simpson, Mollie
        (Illustrator)
        Illustrator, Mollie Simpson, grew up in Lakeland, Florida.  She graduated from Florida State University in 1999 and now resides in Bartow, Florida with her husband and three children.  She feels very blessed to be a stay at home mom.  

        Mollie has always had a love and appreciation for art and reading.  Her inspiration comes from her children and the countless books she has read to them.





        Smith-Harker, R. Louise
        (Editor)





        Staff editor for Smooth Sailing Press













        Stephenson, Doris Ainsmorth
        (Author)
        Author, Doris Ainsworth Stephenson, received her AB in History with another major in English and a minor in Spanish. Her young married life was spent raising her children, working and teaching school.
          
         After her children were grown and married, Doris decided to return to college earning a Master of Library Science from Vanderbilt University and finished the remainder of her career as a Librarian.

        Though now retired, the author still lives and writes among the books she loves in her own private library nestled in the rolling wooded hills of Tennessee.




        Stidham, Erica
        (Author)
        Erica’s passion for writing began at a very early age. She has always loved telling stories to anyone willing to listen and often times those stories have lessons or values attached to them.  Erica was born and raised in Houston, TX, graduated from Texas A & M University in 2000, and then moved to Florida with her husband where she taught school for several years.

        Currently, Erica and her husband, along with their 2 daughters, reside back in their hometown of Houston.


        Valentine, Rex B.
        (Author)

        Rex B. Valentine has lived on a farm for most of his lifetime.  He has become acquainted with many animals, from dogs and cats, to pigs, cows and horses.  All of his 11 children have had one or more horses. 
         
        Much of his writings, books, and poems, have brought to light and life the intelligence of farm animals.  He uses these stories and poems to implant in adults and children alike important lessons of life. 
         
        The Rutabaga Patch, his book of narrative poetry of his true early farm life adventures, has charmed both young and old.  Tiddlywinks, the Little Horse with Three Ears, carries the lessons in it, that “looks can be deceiving,” and “we shouldn’t make fun of, or be mean to someone who is deformed or handicapped in some way.”  Rex is also a published song writer.  Music, poetry, and stories have long been his hobbies that he is now sharing with others.
         
        His poem “Those Football Feelings” won first prize at the Ocean Shores Write On The Beach Poetry Contest in 2004.  He was inducted as a member of the “World Congress of Poets” in 2004.  In 2005, he attended the World Congress of Poets convention in Tai’an, China, where he received a Poet of Merit medallion and his villanelle poem, “Coming Home” won first place in the international competition. His works have been published in numerous articles and periodicals.


        Wormley, Orlyn Tatum
        (Author)
        Poet and author Orlyn Tatum-Wormley was born in Seattle, Washington, and schooled in Anchorage, Alaska.   Outside of four years in St. Louis, Missouri, the author has spent her adult life residing in the great state of Texas.  The mother of three children, four step-sons, and five grandchildren, Tatum-Wormley lives an active life with her husband surrounded by family and friends. 

        Often referring to her writing as "therapy", the author draws on her life and work experience to compose her poetry.  Her reflections in poetry and prose leave the reader with a refreshing and often profound “take” on life. 

        In “Pages from My Journal…” author Orlyn Tatum-Wormley achieves her goal of inspiring people who never thought they would or could see their dreams come into fruition.




        White, Darcy
        (Illustrator)
        Darcy L. White is an accomplished fine artist living in the North Texas area. Her enthusiasm for life is reflected throughout her art, providing her viewers with an emotional response of affection. Her talent is diverse and offers a variety of artistic skills. One of the most frequent comments about her art work is "she has the ability to meet above and beyond expectations." Darcy is a graduate of Wichita State University's School of Fine Arts with a degree in graphic design.

        You can see more of Darcy's creations at         www.FaithfulHuesbyDarcy.blogspot.com
           



        Wright, Dr. Jimmie
        (Author)
        Dr. Jimmie Wright, has been the pastor of New Mount Olive Baptist Church in Wharton, Texas for the past 32 years.  Wright came to Texas in 1951 and married his wife in 1954.  They have two sons, Major Lee Wright and Jimmie Wright, Jr., and a daughter, Kathy Elaine Wright.  To date they are blessed with 7 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

        "Job - Why the Righteous Suffer" is the first book written and published by Dr. Wright.


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