Submitted
For many authors, the act of putting pen to paper is a solitary endeavor. But for a new group in Gilchrist County, local writers are finding that working together is much more fun.
GC Writers started in May 2025. Created by Mike Lakner and Kat Jackson, the group was born from a simple need: a local space to discuss the craft and offer assistance to others without the long drive to Gainesville or Lake City.
“GC Writers was inspired as a forum to give local writers a place to belong, but what has really made it work is the people who stepped up and carried it forward,” said Lakner. “I’m honored to be a co-founder, proud of what this group has become, and grateful to be surrounded by people who genuinely care about writing and about each other. Anyone with an interest in reading, writing or just being around good people is welcome and encouraged to join us.”
The group’s variety is reflected in its output, with members working across genres including science fiction, adult romance, children’s literature and Christian fiction. While some members are already multi-published authors, others are just starting their first manuscripts with the support of the group.
“Being part of this group has helped me take my writing more seriously,” said member Heidi Beach. “The encouragement, accountability, and shared creativity have pushed me to grow in ways I wouldn’t have on my own.”
The community extends beyond the in-person monthly meetups. In the group’s private Facebook community, members share daily writing prompts to spark creativity and are encouraged to maintain a daily writing habit.
“Community is key when being an indie author,” added Jackson. “Without it, we are all out here shouting into the void, hoping someone will read our story.”
This spirit of collaboration is also reaching across county lines, as GC Writers builds ties with other Big Bend region groups like Writer’s Ink in Mayo and Writer’s Closet in Cross City. In the future, they plan to work together to print a recurring literary digest that features stories and other writing from our authors and others throughout the region.
How to Join There is no cost to participate in GC Writers. Residents can attend in person at any monthly meeting:
Second Saturday of the month: 12:30 p.m. at American Grace Cafe in Trenton.
Last Wednesday of the month: 6 p.m. at the Gilchrist County Public Library in Trenton.
Aspiring writers can also find the group on Facebook at fb.com/share/g/1Bo9Db4zBs.
Donald Church: “Finding people in the local area who understand and have an appreciation for writing and what it demands is essential in keeping motivated,” said member Donald Church. “On some days, writing is one of the most isolating pursuits imaginable.”
Mike Lakner: “GC Writers was inspired as a forum to give local writers a place to belong, but what has really made it work is the people who stepped up and carried it forward. Donald Church and Heidi Beach have taken on the lion’s share of the day-to-day work, from daily prompts and submissions to encouraging thoughtful feedback, and the group is stronger because of them. I’m honored to be a co-founder, proud of what this group has become, and grateful to be surrounded by people who genuinely care about writing and about each other. Anyone with an interest in reading, writing, or just being around good people is welcome and encouraged to join us.”
Heidi Beach: “Being part of this group has helped me take my writing more seriously,” said member Heidi Beach. “The encouragement, accountability, and shared creativity have pushed me to grow in ways I wouldn’t have on my own.”
Karon Jackson (Kat): “Community is key when being an indie author,” added Jackson. “Without it, we are all out here shouting into the void, hoping someone will read our story.”