Finding Markets for Short Stories, Poems : Writers groups provide sources of information for those serious about getting published.

Too often, cynical old-timers tell short story writers and poets that there are no markets for their work. A study of books, magazines and the many newsletters provided by writers organizations that publish marketing information puts the lie to such negative posturing. The monetary rewards may be thin, but there are ways for serious writers, or writers serious about getting published to place their poems and short stories. Heed this call for submissions from two local magazines and go in search of others.

Ojai-based Little Horse Press is seeking poetry on any topic for the 1994 edition of its annual publication Rivertalk. They will accept up to five poems and are also soliciting black and white photographs for cover and inside art. The deadline is Feb. 15. Call 646-7801 for details.

Verve Magazine is planning its spring 1994 issue and encourages submissions of poetry and short fiction up to 1,000 words on the theme Metamorphosis. Manuscripts must be postmarked prior to March 1. Send a SASE for detailed guidelines to editor Ron Reicheck, Verve, P.O. Box 3205, Simi Valley, 93093.

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Debra Frasier, the illustrator of “On the Day You Were Born” and “The Animal Who Drank Up Sound” will autograph her new book “We Got Here Together” from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday at Adventures for Kids, 3457 Telegraph Road, Ventura.

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The Gold Coast Fiction Writers’ first meeting in the new year will focus on critiquing manuscripts. The group will gather Tuesday for discussion and dinner at 6 p.m. and the program will begin at 7:30 p.m. in Carrows Restaurant, Seaward Avenue and Harbor Boulevard, Ventura. Guests are welcome. The non-member fee is $4. Call 498-0968 or 683-6340.

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Publishing can be a Byzantine maze. Who gets published and which books sell is often unpredictable. But writers should know how the publishing business works before they even begin to work on a manuscript. Joan Prestine, the author of 19 books, now under contract to a major publisher for a new series of books, will conduct seminars on getting published and self-publishing on Jan. 29 for Ventura College Community Services, 4667 Telegraph Road.

Book Publishing Options scheduled from 9 a.m. to noon will focus on topics that sell, book proposals, packaging and how to choose a publisher. The How to Self-Publish workshop follows from 1 to 4 p.m. and deals with creating a book from manuscript, editing, illustrating, printing to promotion and distribution. The seminars are $35 each. To register by phone, call 654-6459.

Words & Images columnist Frances Halpern is an author and radio talk show host. Submit literary events information to her at least two weeks in advance to 5200 Valentine Road, Suite 140, Ventura, 93003. Send faxes to 658-5576.