NLAPW recently received its endorsement as authorized participant in the official Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Celebration (ALBC). One of the highlights of NLAPW's participation will be the creation of an anthology which will include artistic, dramatic, literary, and musical works that speak to Lincoln's style of leadership, his contemplative character, and his persuasive use of language. The NLAPW National Board is excited to be able to provide this opportunity for all active members to contribute. This call is for new or reprints of existing works. Poems (up to 3 per poet), essays, articles, and excerpts (2500 - 3000 word maximum), musical works, scripts, and transparencies or jpeg files of paintings, sculptures, photographs, etc., on Lincoln-inspired themes are welcome. Also, please include a cover letter addressing your thoughts on Lincoln and/or how you arrived at the theme chosen. Collaborative projects are also welcome. Themes incorporating the women in Lincoln's life will be especially welcome.

Some ideas discussed during board week about this exciting multi-year celebration include one member being reminded of her Civil War ancestors who, as Quakers, hid the bodies of fallen Yankee soldiers until their remains could be returned to the North. Cedar trees were utilized as temporary markers.

In the span of just a few minutes, several members quickly recited something about Lincoln that inspired them. Another member is deconstructing Whitman's poem "O Captain! My Captain!" and will relay how it impacted her as a child. Another discussed how Lincoln, sometimes referred to as our Poet President, was such a prolific letter writer and how comforting his personal handwritten words must have been to families of the fallen. This is an opportunity for everyone, not only Lincoln scholars, to reflect upon Lincoln the man. The anthology will be widely distributed and marketed and will be utilized for readings, teachings, etc. Proceeds from the anthology will be used to establish a Lincoln Legacy Scholarship to be awarded to students.

NLAPW is in the process of trying to obtain grants, and if, and it is a big if at this point, we should be successful, compensation could be awarded you for your efforts. Send your creative best for consideration. Submissions should be submitted as soon as possible to Anna DiBella at 267 Woodbury Road, Huntington New York 11732-4167. Call 631-385-0336 if you have additional questions on what or how to submit. Submissions must be postmarked no later than June 15, 2008. This call is open to all active Pen Women.

Visit the website of the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Celebration.