Public Employee Press

Three members are unstoppable authors

DC 37 members are typically busy juggling their many family and job responsibilities. But three union members have recently made time in their hectic schedules to pursue their creative interests.

Nicola McDonald, an Office Aide II at the Brooklyn Public Library and a member of Local 1482, recently published her first romance novel, “Lusting for Love.”

Her interest in writing began several years ago and was stimulated further by the Creative Writing Workshop provided by the DC 37 Education Fund.

“Worth the effort”
“I found the class to be very helpful,” said Ms. McDonald, who was inspired by romance novelists like Eric Jerome Dickey. Ms. McDonald has not only tried her hand at writing fiction but has also started her own publishing company.

“It is a lot of work,” admitted the young writer, who named her company New N Publishing LLC. “But it’s worth all the effort.” You can order “Lusting for Love” at www.newnpublishing.com.

Vivian E. Garcia, a Community Associate and member of SSEU Local 371, began writing poetry as a teenager, but also enjoys the suspense and intrigue of science fiction. Her new book, “REC:ord,” explores the phenomena of cloning. It is also self-published and is available online at Amazon.com. Ms. Garcia, who works in a lead poisoning prevention program, wrote her book while recuperating from a car accident.

An ordained minister, Michelle Nieves is inspired to write poetry by her religious beliefs. She works at the Men’s Shelter as a Community Assistant and is a member of Local 371. With five children at home and a stressful job, she did most of her writing on the subway.

“I got a lot of work done there,” said the author of “Poems Inspired by the Holy Spirit.” Call (212) 714-4703 to order a copy of her book.

Neither a hectic work schedule, nor child rearing nor even an accident stopped these women from pursuing their goal.

And by publishing their books themselves, which often means an initial investment of at least $5,000, they’ve shown an extraordinary level of commitment.

“You have to make up your mind that you can do it,” said Ms. Garcia, who is now working on another book. “And make up your mind that nothing is going to stop you.”