NBC2 TV Journalist Sean Martinelli. PROVIDED

Sean Martinelli, journalist and host of NBC2 TV’s Stories2Share, will be the featured speaker at Gulf Coast Writers Association’s meeting on Saturday, March 16, at 10 a.m. at Word of Life Church, 6111 South Pointe Blvd. in south Fort Myers.

The meeting of Southwest Florida’s 29-year-old forum for writers, editors and their associates is open to the public.

Martinelli, whose Stories2Share series focuses on unique and positive stories across Southwest Florida, will provide insight into what the media really looks for from authors when considering them for shows. He should know: NBC2’s Stories2Share is the most recognized franchise in Southwest Florida, winning multiple regional and statewide awards, Emmys, and a National Edward R. Murrow award in 2022.

In 2018 Martinelli joined NBC2 to launch Stories2Share which airs Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 6 p.m. Before arriving here, he was a general assignment reporter in Utica, NY, for WUTR-TV and in Syracuse, NY, for WSYR-TV. He grew up in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., and graduated from Syracuse University.

Martinelli was the host of GCWA’s book launch of its anthology Storm Stories — Hurricane Ian — available on Amazon and at local outlets in Fort Myers, Punta Gorda, Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel and Matlacha. The book launch in September at the Alliance for the Arts was a sell-out event.

NBC2 TV host Sean Martinelli (right) with Gulf Coast Writers Association President Mary Charles at GCWA book launch for "Storm Stories-Hurricane Ian." PHOTO BY JEFF BOGART

About GCWA

Founded in 1995, the Gulf Coast Writers Association, Inc. (GCWA) provides a forum for fellowship, education, and information for writers, editors and associates. GCWA’s well-regarded annual writing contest — recently announced for 2024 – draws a wide range of authors. Prize awards this year have been increased from prior years.

Based in Fort Myers, GCWA attracts members from throughout Southwest Florida. At monthly meetings, speakers and workshops offer expert advice on such topics as writing techniques, publishing, and marketing.

Participants at GCWA meetings also have the opportunity to read their works. The literary genres run the gamut from poetry, adult fiction and nonfiction to children’s and young adult, historical fiction, romance, mystery/thriller, memoir, essay and screenplay. Members include full-time writers as well as corporate professionals, teachers, and business owners, working or retired.

GCWA’s website is gulfwriters.org. Follow GCWA on X (Twitter): @GCWA_SWFL. Like GCWA on Facebook at facebook.com/gulfwriters.org.