SANFORD - "Red Clay Review," an annual literary and arts magazine published by Central Carolina Community College, makes its official return later this month after a two-year hiatus, complete with a celebration at the Chatham Community Library in Pittsboro.

First published in 2005, the magazine showcases poetry and prose from writers at the college and community members with ties to Chatham, Harnett, and Lee counties, CCCC's service area.

The latest issue, carrying the theme "Destinations," focuses on locations and journeys.

Summerlin Webb, who coordinates the magazine and teaches English at the college, says "Red Clay Review" returned after writers and readers asked her to keep the publication going. Many contributors are continuing education students in the vibrant creative writing program based on CCCC's Chatham Main Campus in Pittsboro -- a program that listed almost a dozen classes during the spring semester.

But submissions come from well beyond the creative writing program, including students, faculty, and staff at other CCCC campuses and the broader community as well. In fact, "Red Clay Review" accepts submissions from anyone with ties to Chatham, Harnett, and Lee counties -- or, as Webb puts it, "anyone who has had ties in the past or may in the future."

Clearly, the magazine is a boon to writers. Webb says it offers them a destination for their work, builds the artistic community, and gives new writers experience in preparing and submitting their work for possible publication. Poetry and prose appearing in "Red Clay Review" are selected by a panel of judges during an anonymous review process.

It's not only writers who benefit. Webb says the magazine throws a spotlight on the entire community. "I'm blown away by how many creative people we have from all walks of life and how they're producing so much, even while they have other jobs and responsibilities," she says. "The magazine lets people see how diverse this community is and the variety of interests and life experiences they reflect.

"That's one thing that has made me very happy putting together these issues. It's always vibrant. It's always exciting."

The release celebration for "Red Clay Review" is Jan. 25 at the Chatham Community Library in Pittsboro. Refreshments will begin at 6:30 p.m. and the event continues with readings at 7 p.m. All are welcome, but Webb asks everyone to reserve a seat by contacting her at 919-718-7270 or slpage@cccc.edu.

Printed copies of the magazine will be distributed at the celebration. The digital publication is online now at www.cccc.edu/redclayreview.

SIDEBAR

"Red Clay Review" is currently accepting submissions for its 2018 music-themed issue.

Contributors may submit prose that is 1,500 words or less; up to three poems, each with a maximum of 80 lines; and/or as many as three original artistic images.

Poetry and prose submissions must be sent electronically as .doc, .docx, or .rtf file attachments, and images must be submitted as high-resolution files.

Submissions must be sent to rcr@cccc.edu and include the contributor's name, mailing address and phone number. Entries must be received no later than May 10.