A Worthy Venture


Posted by Wendy Garfinkle

I’ve been following Wounded Warrior Equestrian Program (WWEP) on Facebook for a while now, and find it to be a wonderful service. I have an Army Lieutenant friend who has recently had one of her legs amputated at the knee as a result of contact with an IED in Afghanistan. Since that incident, I’ve become more interested in veterans’ services.

I’ve heard for years that animals are therapeutic for trauma victims, and our military. Formally established in February 2012, WWEP is the inspiration of Ret. US Army Major Bridget Kroger, who wanted to give back by bringing together horse rescue centers, therapeutic riding programs, and wounded warriors. WWEP’s motto is “The spirit of the warrior lives on forever.”

Recent photos from their Facebook page:

Proper disposal of retired US flags.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For more information about WWEP, visit Wounded Warrior Equestrian Program or their Facebook page, of the same name. Here’s the link for an article about WWEP published in Veteran Journal on May 2nd, 2012, about the program: Hoofs, Boots, and Big Dreams.


Unique “Business Cards”


Posted by Wendy Garfinkle

Here it is, folks, Grenade Magazine’s first “business card” – well the final proof, anyway (obverse and reverse). Yes, it’s a dog tag. This IS a military literary journal after all. And it’s my first attempt at business cards for Grenade. These are limited edition and will go fast. I wanted something that would be memorable, or at least stand out. I think I’ve achieved that goal. The only problem is the small space for printing. As you can see, only the logo, name, website and tagline fit. While that’s the most important information, a larger font would’ve been nice. And the logo came out smaller on the finished product – you almost have to look at it cross-eyed to see that the logo is an exploding pineapple grenade.

While these are easy to carry and distribute, they’re also easy to lose, simply because of their size. And let’s face it, I’m not walking around with a dozen or so strung around my neck until I give them away. I don’t know if I’ll continue using dog tags as Grenade Magazine business cards, or if I’ll have them reprinted larger, as metallic business cards, say. I want them to continue to stand out and be memorable…as long as my teeny budget allows.

What do you think about using dog tags as “business cards” for a military-related literary journal? Too kitschy or truly inspired?


New Advisers & Incorporation


Posted by Wendy Garfinkle

I’m thrilled to officially announce the advisers for Grenade Magazine. These men and women have graciously agreed to lend their names and expertise to this endeavor. All of them are involved in Wilkes University’s Creative Writing program, which is where I made their acquaintance.

Lenore Hart was my Fiction Foundations instructor three years ago, and has continued to offer her wisdom and humor whenever I needed them.

David Poyer has been my mentor since my first Project semester, 2-1/2 years ago. He’s by turns encouraged and provoked me into becoming a better writer. His enthusiasm for my first novel and this online journal have been almost as great as mine, and for that he’s earned my undying gratitude.

Starr Troup was my site manager during my internship with Etruscan Press. She’s been invaluable in explaining both the artistic and the business side of publishing. Working for and with her was a pleasure I’d gladly repeat.

Larry Heinemann is a talented, inspired writer, his raw depictions of the Vietnam War are intense and haunting. Wilkes University and myself are fortunate to have him on our advisory boards.

If you haven’t read any of their publications, you can begin adding some or all of their works to your literary bookshelves by visiting Amazon or Barnes & Noble.

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I’m also pleased to announce that as of December 27, 2011, Grenade Magazine is incorporated! We are now officially Grenade Magazine, Inc., in the State of Florida (our HQ)!



Posted by Wendy Garfinkle

Grenade Magazine is now fully operational! Still working on some aesthetics, but the Submissions page is live and ready to begin accepting your works of literary and visual art! We hope to be able to publish the first online issue in March 2012, and in the meantime, look forward to getting to know all of you through your submissions and emails. Welcome to Grenade Magazine, the first (as far as we can tell) online literary journal for the members of our armed forces!


Greetings!


Posted by Wendy Garfinkle

Welcome to Grenade Magazine! We’re an online journal and community of literary and multi-media support for military members, their families and friends.

This site is still under construction (as we’re sure you can tell), but when it’s finished – hopefully within the next week, it’ll look great! And then we’ll begin accepting submissions for the inaugural issue.

Until then, please be patient, as we’re on a learning curve with the construction of this site. And be sure to check back often for updates and news.