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Newsletter - Feb 20, 2009
What's in this edition:
Letter from Chonda
A CCA Web Updates
CCA Comics in the News
Speaking of Congratulations
CCA Veterans Fellowship
Final Note
Letter from Chonda
Dear Fellow Comics,
My hands rested on the keys of my laptop for several minutes trying to think of a good opening line for you. It’s always been my weakness: the opening line. There’s the old standard, “Hello, Detroit!” It doesn’t always work when you shout Detroit while standing in Milwaukee. (Yes, I’ve done that.) I want to grab your attention and your enthusiasm!
I have been a part of the CCA story from the beginning and I have always been proud to be a part of this unique community of people who love God and the art of Comedy. This term, the CCA Board has passed the baton to me – and trust me – my ego will not explode too badly. (I’m pretty sure I was the second or third choice!)
We have been blessed to have the leadership we have had in our short existence. Nazareth did a fabulous job these past few years as did Dan Rupple, Mike Williams, etc. I think I speak for these men as well as the entire Board when I say - a community of people could not be more loved. We truly care about you and want to find ways to help you grow spiritually and professionally and I am honored to serve you this term.
There is no greater need in our world today than to share the joy that a good laugh can bring. And there is no desperate time than now to use that laughter to strengthen our faith, lighten our hearts and see true transformation take place in dark places.
The last few years we have seen members of the CCA thriving. From Last Comic Standing to major television roles – from performing in arenas to sharing the love of Christ in foreign countries – from entertaining the local choir to holding our own at the local comedy club – we are making a difference and I could not be more thrilled for every single success. The task ahead for each of us – no matter what level your career is at the moment – will never be done alone. Although, we stand-up alone in our craft - we are never alone within the community of the CCA.
The wheels are in motion and we are planning for the next CCA Conference. Almost every conference I wonder, “How will we ever top this one?” as each year gets better and better. We continue to learn new techniques, find encouragement at just the right moment and something special always happens - I always leave better for having had the chance to fellowship with those of like minds. Always.
Please mark your calendar: Our 2009 conference will take place in the Nashville area beginning with the Sunday Night Showcase on May 31st and the general sessions starting the following morning, June 1st until late afternoon June 2nd. I will be writing to you again in the near future with accommodations information and the complete line up of speakers and teachers. You cannot miss this Conference. Begin making plans and pass the word along to others who find themselves involved in the world of Comedy. There is always room for one more laugh!
Also, I want to hear from you. Your ideas and thoughts are important to me. I may not find you an agent – but I will find time to pray for you and with you! You can write me at: ccamail@chonda.org
President, Christian Comedy Association
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There have been a few updates to the CCA Website. Please take advantage of the improved profile information for each CCA member. You may also want to review the new MEDIA page and if you have pictures to submit for posting please do.
There is now a greater ease for you to retrieve a lost username or password without having to contact anyone.
If you have breaking news for the CCA please let us know so that we can post it.
Take advantage of the comedy forums exclusively to CCA members. There is often discussion to opportunities, techniques, writing, etc. that members find quite helpful.
CCA Comics In the News:
The New York City Parks and Recreation Department After School Programs has hired comedienne Donna East as a comedy consultant. She is going to be teaching her workshop called "Just Kiddin' Around," emphasizing literacy and teaching children how to write and perform comedy. The program plans to culminate at a NYC comedy club with participating child comics and a clean headlining comedian! Congratulations Donna!
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Speaking of congratulations
Top PROPS to Sherrie Shepherd who is now a regular face on "The View." Way to go!
Anita Renfroe's "Mom" clip on U-tube has recorded over 1.5 million viewers. She is scheduled soon to speak on several nationally televised morning shows that originate in New York and possibly an interview on Oprah's radio show.
(If you hear of CCA comedians in the news please take time to let us know.)
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CCA Veterans Fellowship
Please welcome David Pendleton who is volunteering to serve as the CCA Director of Veteran's Affairs for 2009. If you have comments or suggestions related to veteran issues please direct them to David Pendleton. David@anythingcantalk.com
David Pendleton, CCA Director of Veteran’s Affairs
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Final Note
“Live creatively, friends. If someone falls into sin, forgivingly restore him, saving your critical comment for yourself. You might be needing forgiveness before the days out. Stoop down and reach out to those who are oppressed. Share their burdens, and so complete Christ’s law.
If you think you are too good for that, you are badly deceived.
Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work that you have been given, and then sink yourself into that. Don’t be impressed with yourself. Don’t compare yourself with others. Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life.” Galatians 6 (The Message)
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