The meeting will be held at the Ajax Convention Centre on Beck Crescent, south of Highway 2, off Chambers Drive, which is just off Salem Road. Pre-registration is required – deadline for registering is 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 9.

Jessica Westhead grew up in Whitby, and now lives in Toronto. Her fiction has appeared in major literary journals in Canada and the U.S., including Geist, The New Quarterly, The Antigonish Review, Matrix and Indiana Review. She was shortlisted for the 2009 CBC Literary Awards, and her first novel, Pulpy & Midge (2007, Coach House Books), was nominated for the ReLit Award.

After the meeting, for an extra fee of $10 per person, breakfast attendees can take part in a mini workshop titled “Yes I Will, No I Won’t: An Overview of Publishing Contracts and Copyright Law.” You are a writer and you diligently submit your work to several publications. Finally, one of your articles, short stories or poems is accepted. A document full of legal jargon arrives in your email in-box. You’re told it’s a standard publishing contract and advised to sign it. What do you do? Facilitated by WCDR president James Dewar, the workshop will focus on reviewing the common elements of publishing contracts and explain what they mean. James offers an experienced perspective from both sides of the publishing business. He is the publisher and editor of Piquant Press, and has also been a freelance writer for many years. Participants will walk away with samples in hand and a much better understanding of how the publishing world operates.

At the WCDR monthly breakfast meetings, experienced and aspiring writers gather, learn and connect. The November meeting will run from 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Registration fees include a gourmet breakfast. Fees are $20 for members who pre-pay, or $25 at the door. The non-member rate is $25 and MUST be pre-paid. Tickets for the breakfast are not available at the door.

Ask how you can save by becoming a member! Pre-registration for the Nov. 12 breakfast meeting, mini-workshop and blue-pencil session is required. Register online at www.wcdr.org, by phone at 905-686-0211 or by e-mail at breakfast@wcdr.org , no later than 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 9. Anyone who registers by phone or e-mail must indicate their breakfast menu option or will receive the Chef's Special.

The Writers’ Community of Durham Region (WCDR) is dedicated to raising the profile of writers of all kinds, and at all levels, by offering a forum through which they can find support, education and networking opportunities. As a non-profit umbrella organization, WCDR has worked since 1995 to draw together individuals and groups with common interests in promoting the art and skill of writing, fostering literacy, and providing moral support to members. Visit www.wcdr.org .