It was great to see everyone! Jean and Joe Porter were back from Jean's long absence recovering from an 'off the track' knee surgery. We had our Kris update on how well she is coming along. Susan Davis returned and read much to everyone's delight and we also welcomed two new faces both of whom seemed to enjoy our antics, Ben Daughtery and George Mindling. I thank the other folks for making them both feel welcome.
We always seem to fill over two hours quickly with readings. We have such talent in varied genres, lively and helpful discussions are the norm. Rod, Peter, Ed Ellis and Russ can always be counted on to help me out and Linda Malloy serves as our treasurer for the Firehall donations which is minimal considering the access we have to their training room on all days but Thursday. But, we have never been bumped from our room on a Wednesday, which was frequent when we held our meetings in the library. Other than the occasional fire siren it's usually quiet. We don't have to listen to the PA system beginning announcements at eight-fifteen telling us we must vacate the premises by ten to nine because the employees want to go home! I expect with the shortened hours now, we'd be greeted at the door with "you must be out by ten to eight . . ." Announcedments would begin at seven-fifteen only fifteen minutes after arrival. :)
My trip to the north country was announced and Peter has agreed to take the second June meeting on the 15th and Ed Ellis volunteered to take July 6th. I will be back for the second July meeting on July 20th. I will be taking the laptop with, so email communication will be possible if anyone has a question.
Peter has requested that everyone who enjoys reading from their own favorite author to bring their book. This great idea came from Keri and has really been a hit. Peter also requests that everyone choose their own favorite word and what they use it with. I could give an example of mine and when I use it but that would not be appropriate here. Joanne would laugh. :) We've also done this in the past and great discussions erupted then, too.
If anyone has something earthshaking to report in my absense, email me. Also if treated very nicely, they may request Russ into posting it on the blog. He did such a fabulous job for so long, I don't bother him unless it's really a 'need to know' thing!
Happy Father's Day to all the dads and have a great July 4th weekend as well. I'll look forward to seeing you all upon my return.
Best, Susan
Not Edited which means you are all friends. :)
Schedule and Location
Our group meets on the first and third Wednesday of each month at the Nokomis Fire Station.
From Sarasota or North, proceed a few blocks south of Albee Road on US 41 (past Matthews-Currie Ford) to Pavonia Road. Turn right (West, toward the bay) at the Fire Station's flashing yellow caution traffic light.
From the south on US 41, we are two blocks north of Dona Bay. Turn left onto Pavonia Road at the flashing yellow caution light.
At the Fire Station, drive to the fire hall's far end or west side; PLEASE DO NOT BLOCK THE FIRE DEPARTMENT DOORS!
We gather in the training room at the far end of the complex for a meet and greet at 6:00 pm but call the Meeting to order at 6:30 pm and take a Ten-minute break at around 7:50 pm. Meeting Adjourns: 9:00 pm