Editing a magazine is like sculpting a geyser -- crafting an object that is meaningful and abiding out of something that's blasting you randomly in the face. The face-blasting metaphorical geyser, in this case, is information -- whether that information takes the form of breaking news, press releases, unsolicited submissions or freelance article pitches.

Let's talk for a second about freelance article pitches. Now, my attention span is so short it has to cuff its underwear. On the other hand, I have a serious commitment to bringing Desert Companion readers the best writing and reporting in Southern Nevada. Much of that writing and reporting originates from freelance journalists, journalists who know how -- thoroughly and professionally -- to give my attention span a neck-snapping wedgie so compelling it's impossible to say no. In other words, they know how to pitch ideas that translate into engaging, relevant articles for Desert Companion's readers -- and translate into BIG SACK$ OF GOLD for the journalists. Metaphorically speaking, again.

To that end, I'm holding a workshop 10 a.m. Saturday Nov. 6, "The Art of the Freelance Pitch," at the Fifth Street School as part of the Vegas Valley Book Festival. If you've ever wanted to learn how to successfully pitch article ideas to jaded and harried editors like me, now is your chance. Get published! Bask in the warm glow of miserly praise! Get paid for words, mere words, mere meaning-rich spoken and written symbols! See you there!