October 22, 2026

 

WRITE ON HOOSIERS October 22, 2026

The meeting was called to order at 6:01 pm

MEMBERS PRESENT:

 Sharon Buckman, Andrew Cummins, Nick Dapkus, Bernadette Fortuna, Katherine Flotz, Gail Galvan, Ruthann Graczyk, Chris Hasara, Shirley Hinman, Cindy Horgash, Lisa Keene, Al Koch, Karen Lauper, Tom Molnar, Sharon Palmeri, Trent D. Pendley, Diane Stratton, Shirley Vaughan  

GUEST: Srba Brasovan

OLD BUSINESS:

Al Koch approved the 10/08/2026 WOH minutes; Ruthann Graczyk seconded.

Diane Stratton (V. Pres.) announced the WOH Christmas dinner will be held at Teibel’s Restaurant in Schererville on December 10^th at 6:00 pm. We will hold the book exchange once again for anyone who would like to participate.

NEW BUSINESS:

Sharon Palmeri (Exec. Dir.) discussed the fluctuation in the cost of the WOH’s Horizon Spectrum II book, which is due to the number of pages being printed. She needs orders and payments made by November 1^st. Order sheets were passed out for members to place book orders and make payments.

Sharon also introduced Srba Brasovsn, who has been writing and journaling for the last 45 years. Each member introduced themselves and shared their writing experience.

Gail Galvan discussed the cost of the Horizon Spectrum II book.

LITERARY NEWS:

Trent Pendley announced that his book “Lewry Lurie” is close to publication once the formatting is complete.

READINGS:

SHARON BUCKMAN read from her novel “Canopy of Leaves.” In this episode, Anne finally talks Tom into taking her fishing so that she can plan her eventual escape.

ANDREW CUMMINS read Chapter 3 from his first published book “God First.” The apostle Paul talks about his life before Christ.

TRENT D. PENDLEY read his short story “Mrytle the Thalidomider” inspired by the WOH Halloween picture prompt.

SHIRLEY E. HINMAN read her poem, “The Old House,” inspired by the WOH Halloween picture prompt. The haunted old house in a historic neighborhood is known for noises, screams, and mysteries as told by those who pass by it.

“November Thoughts” is a non-fiction piece by AL KOCH, about moments in time filled with ordinary activities that add to the resume of one’s life and become treasures of mind, heart, and spirit.

RUTHANN GRACZYK read her fictional short story “Creepy WOH Picture Prompt.” Based on the Write-On Hoosiers picture prompt, newlyweds John and Helen, on their way to their honeymoon destination, experience unexpected vehicle issues resulting in their discovery of a deceased elderly woman, whose husband passed away the previous year. The elderly couple had no other family, and the young newlyweds speculate they were intentionally led to discover the deceased woman on All Hallow’s Eve/Halloween.

“No Fear, Keep Going” is a haunted Haiku by BERNADETTE FORTUNA based on the WOH haunted photo prompt of an old, dilapidated house.

SHARON PALMERI read her fictional piece “Those Ain’t People, Lady” about a real estate agent who gets caught up in a murder mystery. (Inspired by the WOH Halloween picture prompt.)   

The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 pm.

Respectfully Submitted:

CINDY HORGASH 

October 8, 2026

October 8, 2026 – Called to Order at 6:08 PM

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Amy Brailey, Katerine Flotz, Gail Galvin, Ruthann Graczyk, Shirley Hinman, Al Koch, Karen Lauper, Tom Molnar, Bob Neuman, Judy Neuman, Sharon Palmeri, Trent D. Pendley, Diane Stratton, and Shirley Vaughan.

AMY BRAILEY asked if anyone had read the minutes.  Trent Pendley and Karen Lauper, among many others, acknowledged having read the minutes.  The minutes were accepted.

NEW BUSINESS:

KAREN LAUPER  recently returned from a road trip to Albuquerque, New Mexico, where her son, JW, who has a master’s degree in fine arts and creative writing, writes mostly poetry, and has been published before, presented his new book of poems, which he wrote while teaching in Rome.  The presenters discussed what they had written and then read their work.  She wondered whether we could take some of our writing and present it the same way.  Sharon said we could, but we would have to advertise to ensure good attendance.

KATHERINE FLOTZ appeared at a book club meeting at Karen’s house to address attendees, and everyone bought her book. A photo of Katherine, Karen, and Cindy from the meeting was circulated. Katherine also attended an Author’s Fair at the Crown Point Library on September 26, 2026, and sold nine copies of her book.

TRENT PENDLEY went to the Crown Point bar to meet author Greg Stark, who met with a group in the back room for his book presentation, but he didn’t really tell the book's story. He also signed with two publishers who had different prices. Hummingbird Press offered only $200, but their Project Manager, who hadn’t seen the manuscript, tried to sell him something else and asked for more money. He decided not to go with them and had trouble getting his $200 back. He went with Ghostline Publishers, sent them the three-hundred-page Lewry Lurie manuscript last week, and they’ve already edited 100 pages.  He feels good about them so far.

GAIL GALVAN mentioned that our Write-On Hoosiers book has been separated into categories. She was thankful for the cut-and-paste capability. She had questions for several people and got together with them after the meeting.

SHARON PALMERI named all the book categories for us. She is waiting for signatures on the permission forms from several people, then asked if anyone had heard from Lisa and if she intended to be included in the book. She also mentioned that Teibel’s is not closing, and she plans to hold our Christmas party there again this year.

DIANE STRATTON  attended the Book Fair at the Crown Point Library and spoke with author John W. Vander Velden, who could be a potential speaker for our group.

OLD BUSINESS:

No old business presented.

READINGS:

TRENT D. PENDLEY read four pages of the opening of Chapter 6 from his book “Lewry Lurie” historical fiction. In this reading, the protagonists are on their way to an art gallery in Indianapolis and a layover later that night at the Loeb House Inn in Lafayette, and before returning to Crown Point and moving on to Miller Beach, where Nathan is to deliver a short talk on several books set in Northwest Indiana with Jewish topics. The four pages read note the brother’s departure from Crown Point and review early visions of the town square and the Fancher house on East Joliet Street.  Nathan also formulates a dialogue between two late Valparaiso namesakes (Harry Danning & Hermann Gurfinkel) about a swastika campaign that plagued Porter County in the 1990s.

SHIRLEY HINMAN read “Hinge Moments,” a short story about pivotal times that surprise or shock us, when we must make immediate, important decisions that can change our lives, or those of our family and friends, forever.

SHARON PALMERI read her story “On Call,” which is a short story about her experiences when she worked in the Labor and Delivery Department at a local hospital, and how the full moon, “guided by a light that dooms balloon-bellied women to precipitous labor, bombarding hospital nurseries with bundles and bundles of joy.”

AL KOCH read “What Does a Person Stand For,” which is a basic question. What do you stand for? Over time, one answers that question with words, deeds, and actions, revealing one’s character.

TOM MOLNAR read “Megan – Not an Ordinary Girl” a short story about a young girl who gets into prostitution and then decides to leave. She has quite memorable experiences with two men.

KAREN LAUPER read ‘Part 2: Timmy Goes to School,’ from her book “Can You Push Me to Heaven?” Progress has been made in every aspect of Tim’s life.  Although he continues to deal with medical issues, he has accepted and learned to deal with his reality. He and JW become big brothers to their new baby brother.

RUTHANN GRACZYK read the beginning of Chapter 2 of Book 2, “Noon,” which focuses on the life of son Keith, the third child of Christine and Mark Slade, who met in Liverpool, England, in the mid-1960s in Book 1, “Dawn.” It begins with Keith’s interaction with his family after a sleepless night contemplating his future as a 16-year-old father, and he contends with the continuing sibling rivalry between him and his older sister, Heather. While walking to school, an old friend offers him a ride, which he accepts, and then convinces this former friend to ask his sister on a date for both their benefit.

The Meeting was adjourned at 8:14 PM.

Respectfully submitted:

Ruthann Graczyk

 

September 24, 2026

WRITE ON HOOSIERS

September 24, 2026

The meeting was called to order at 6:00 pm

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Amy Brailey, Sharon Buckman, Andrew Cummins, Bernadette Fortuna, Katherine Flotz, Gail Galvan, Ruthann Graczyk, Chris Hasara, Shirley Hinman, Cindy Horgash, Lisa Keene, Sharon Palmeri, Trent D. Pendley, Diane Stratton

OLD BUSINESS:

Trent Pendley approved the 9/10/2026 WOH minutes; Chris Hasara seconded.

Amy Brailey (Pres.) shared that she wrote back to Gregory Stark and explained that WOH has a membership fee after attending a second meeting and before reading your material. She thanked him for his interest.

Amy also mentioned that her students will be attending our October 22^nd or November 12^th meeting.

NEW BUSINESS:

Sharon Palmeri (Exec. Dir.) Passed out (2) potential front/back book covers for the Horizon Spectrum II book. The group discussed the layouts, and a majority hand vote approved the Lighthouse cover.

Gail Galvan discussed the cost of the Horizon Spectrum II book. 

LITERARY NEWS:

Katherine Flotz announced she will be attending the Crown Point Library’s author event on Saturday, September 26^th from 10:00 am-2:00 pm.

READINGS:

SHARON BUCKMAN read from her novel “Canopy of Leaves.” In this episode, Anne decides to make Tom believe she is beginning to enjoy living with him and wants to learn how to help with other chores, etc., in order to help with the escape.

DIANE STRATTON read her non-fiction piece, “The Music Box.” As Diane shared words of sympathy over the phone to her lifelong best friend long-distance, a sudden reassuring sign of comfort came through, seemingly from heaven to both of them.

CHRIS HASARA sang an original piece with guitar accompaniment, “Nobody’s Superman.” The song is about heartbreak tied to identity and inadequacy. He also gave us another song, “Circle of Prayer.”

SHIRLEY E. HINMAN read her poem, “Summer Songs,” about the rattlesnake, chainsaw, and maracas sounds a Cicada makes. The ending songs and sounds of summertime. She read her 2^nd poem, “What's That Sound?” about agitating sounds that make her nervous and can be heard on Halloween.

RUTHANN GRACZYK read the continuing saga of the Slade family, which focuses on the life of son Keith, the third child of Christine and Mark Slade, who met in Liverpool, England, in the mid-1960’s in Book 1 – “Dawn.” In Book 2, “Noon,” the Slade family is now living in Darien, Connecticut, where Mark is a highly respected architectural engineer in the New York area. The story continues with the Childress family accepting Mark Slade’s proposal that the two promiscuous teens marry and live in the Slade residence, finish high school, and attend college. Mark will hire a tutor to help Tracey achieve her high school diploma while she’s pregnant and after the child arrives. Keith, although agreeable to the proposal, realizes his music hopes and dreams may be crushed forever, causing him extreme anxiety.

TRENT D. PENDLEY continued reading from his historical fiction “Lewry Lurie” and the Franklin brothers' Wednesday morning conversation of June 29^th in 2011. They were home alone at their Brighton House mansion on the shores of Lake Michigan. Nathan was reminding Brad about the Vietnam years and real threats their older maternal cousins might get drafted and plans their aunts were making to keep their sons home; either by shooting off their toes or sending them to relatives in Canada. This topic evolved after Nathan reminded his brother about the genre of Neil Gordon’s novel, The Company You Keep, being made into a motion picture that summer.

LISA KEENE shared a special chapter of her book and July 14, 2026 – 250^th Anniversary Write on Hoosiers Book Submission. A short story anecdote on the five freedoms guaranteed by the First Amendment, using characters from “Yerd: A Yearbook Nerd’s Epic Quest” for spiritual and grammatical enlightenment.

SHARON PALMERI read her piece printed in the Post-Tribune on Sunday, March 27, 2005, titled “To write well, be an avid reader.” The article advised novice writers to read in the genre they are writing.  She also advised writers to examine how the novel is constructed, learn marketing trends, and more.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 pm.

Respectfully Submitted:

CINDY HORGASH 

 

September 10, 2026

 

WRITE ON HOOSIERS

September 10, 2026

The meeting was called to order at 6:00 pm

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Amy Brailey, Andrew Cummins, Nick Dapkus, Bernadette Fortuna, Katherine Flotz, Ruthann Graczyk, Cindy Horgash, Al Koch, Karen Lauper, Bob Neuman, Judy Neuman, Sharon Palmeri, Trent D. Pendley, Diane Stratton, Jon Terpstra

OLD BUSINESS:

Sharon Palmeri (Exec. Dir.) discussed photos and title options for the WOH book. Sharon passed around AI samples from her book for ideas for the cover and title. Trent Pendley said that he does AI for chapter covers. Amy Brailey used an AI photo for her John Everett book but had trouble because you’re not allowed to use real-looking children or teen photos.

Trent Pendley suggested the cover photo should be specific to our area, while Amy Brailey (Pres.) recommended the 250th Anniversary of the United States be on the cover somewhere.

NEW BUSINESS:

Amy Brailey (Pres.) received an email from Gregory Stark with Oneirion Press. He is releasing a trilogy and wondered if he could advertise and possibly speak at one of our meetings. He also asked if WOH paid a speaker fee. Amy asked members if she should write him back and let him know that we charge a yearly membership fee, and he would be allowed to read his material after becoming a member. Members agreed that he should follow the same guidelines as our members.

Sharon Palmeri (Exec. Dir.) shared a photo for our next story prompt. If members wish to participate, they can read their stories on October 22^nd. Amy Brailey’s class will also be attending and will offer them the chance to participate.

LITERARY NEWS:

Diane Stratton (Vice Pres.) announced that the Crown Point Library will host an Unearth Creative Aging Workshop for 6 weeks, running September 18-October 23, 2026.

READINGS:

AMY BRAILEY read her poem, “The Roll Call Came Too Early,” about a student leaving for Bahrain in the military.

JON TERPSTRA read Part 3 of his short story “Riverbillie’s.” He details what happened after the Building Commissioner shuts down Riverbillie’s and foreshadows the guys' next business venture.

TRENT D. PENDLEY read the opening pages of Chapter 5 of his historical fiction, Lewry Lurie.” The protagonists, Nathan Franklin and his brother, are home alone along the Indiana Dunes beach at the Brighton House. While Brad is still sleeping, Nathan begins re-reading a friend’s (Neil Gordon) trilogy, The Company You Keep, that is being made into a motion picture in Vancouver that fall by Robert Redford. He mentioned that he has selected the cover of the novel, securing permission from works in the Jewish Museum in Berlin, and a Misch Kohn 1957 Lion, and a sculpture by the late Egon Weiner.

AL KOCH read his short story, “No Deposit, No Return.” Remembering the days when recycling was in its infancy. Neighborhood boys in need of funds to attend the Saturday afternoon movie matinee searched alleys, trash cans, and empty lots for discarded glass pop bottles for their 2-cent deposit. These young scavenging moviegoers were rewarded for their recycling efforts with Many Happy Returns.

KAREN LAUPER read from her book, “Can You Push Me to Heaven?” Timmy begins his 2^nd year of public education as his mom must learn to navigate the special education system. At ten years old, this is the strongest that Timmy has ever been.

BOB NEUMAN shared his short story, “Memories Forever Lost,” about his stepsister’s battle with Alzheimer’s.

SHARON PALMERI read a short story, “I Made it Through the Rain.”  The story was about waiting for concert tickets during adverse weather conditions.

RUTHANN GRACZYK read the continuing saga of the Slade family, titled “Noon,” which focuses on the life of son Keith, the third child of Christine and Mark Slade, who met in Liverpool, England, in the mid-1960’s in Book 1 – “Dawn.” In Book 2, the Slade family is now living in Darien, Connecticut, where Mark is a highly respected architectural engineer in the New York area. The story continues with Mark Slade’s proposal to the family of his 15-year-old son’s pregnant girlfriend.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:08 pm.

Respectfully Submitted:

CINDY HORGASH 

August 27, 2026

WRITE ON HOOSIERS

August 27, 2026

The meeting was called to order at 6:00 pm

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Beverly Biehr, Amy Brailey, Sharon Buckman, Andrew Cummins, Katherine Flotz, Gail Galvan, Ruthann Graczyk, Chris Hasara, Shirley Hinman, Cindy Horgash, Al Koch, Sharon Palmeri, Trent D. Pendley, Diane Stratton, Shirley Vaughn, Nick Dapkus, and Lesley Klauk (guest)

OLD BUSINESS:

SHARON PALMERI (Exec. Dir.) stated she had a good response to submissions for the WOH book.  She is waiting for a few more personal bios and story submissions.  There will be further discussion on the book’s title.

NEW BUSINESS:

LESLEY KLAUK (guest) introduced herself and spoke of her interest in writing.  In turn, members introduced themselves and shared their writing experiences.

LITERARY NEWS:

DIANE STRATTON (Vice Pres.) announced that the Crown Point Library will host the first-ever author fair on September 27, from 10-2.

CHRIS HASARA received 1^st Place and 2 honorable mentions from the National Federation of State Poetry Societies contest.  Chris has also been chosen for Symbiosis: Poets & Visual Artists in Collaboration with the Indiana Poetry Society.

READINGS:

SHIRLEY HINMAN read her poems, “The Detour” and “Memories of Childhood.” We are often called to go into new pathways unknown to us.  Some are comfortable, and others are not, but they will lead us to our testing nevertheless.

ANDREW B. CUMMINS: “My First Book” is a short piece describing how, in his search to get himself and others closer to the Lord, he was able to write his first book.

SHARON BUCKMAN continued to read from her book “Canopy of Leaves.” While washing clothes in the river, Anne encounters a strange man behind her.  The man turns out to be Tom’s father, whom he hasn’t seen since childhood.  He later tries to talk Anne into leaving with him but encounters a terrible death instead.

BEVERLY BIEHR shared the back cover and about the author page of her newly published book “Happy Retirement Years!  Inspiration from Bible Seniors.”

DIANE STRATTON read her short story “That Concert of My Dreams,” describing a music concert where she has a surprise interaction with a famous musical artist but also another turn of events.

SHARON PALMERI’s “From Old Chickens Come Fresh Eggs” is a short story about some of her happiest childhood memories, beginning at her grandmother’s little house, where chickens supplied breakfast, gardens filled the table, and love was measured with ordinary things.

RUTHANN GRACZYK read the continuing saga of the Slade family, titled “Noon,” which focuses on the life of son Keith, the third child of Christine and Mark Slade, who met in Liverpool, England, in the mid-1960’s in Book 1 – “Dawn.” In Book 2, the Slade family moves from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, while four of their five children are young.  They now live in Darien, Connecticut, where Mark, a highly respected architectural engineer in the New York area, owns a flourishing business.  The following is the beginning of a chapter in which 15-year-old son Keith reveals to his parents and siblings that his girlfriend is pregnant.

AL KOCH read his poem titled “Banded.” Rarely does one turn their back on people they meet for the first time.  On occasion, however, it is necessary in order to leave one’s troubles behind.

CHRIS HASARA shared (3) poems.  The first, “Sandhill Cranes,” is a poem about the migration of the birds.  “Hot Cocoa Beach” is a poem about the slice of heaven that is Florida’s east coast.  “Quiet Light” is a poem about a grandmother’s wisdom shared in silent action.

TRENT D. PENDLEY read the finale of chapter four of his “Lewry Lurie” historical fiction.  The Franklin brothers, disembarking from a two-hour meeting aboard a yacht in Michigan City, find themselves hungry and stop for a meal, where they hear crude language from the kitchen and a server with cigarette breath.  Arriving back at the Brighton House mansion overlooking the beach, Nathan reads the new publication of a friend’s book, while his brother Brad plans for their next late-night meal.

NICHOLAS DAPKUS read an excerpt from Chapter 2 of his fiction “This is a Beginning.” Arkhaios, an orange pug teacher, is having a private music lesson with Alrex, a little dark purple tyrannosaurus with pink stripes.  Alrex always wanted to play the banjo, so Arkhaios had one made for him.  He works with Alrex to get used to his banjo while reminiscing about his beginnings as a teacher.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 pm.

Respectfully Submitted:

CINDY HORGASH 

August 13th

 NOTE:

    Unfortunately, we didn’t meet on August 13 because of power outages caused by the August 11 derecho and a few tornadoes.  Homes and cars were demolished.  Lives were lost.  Trees were uprooted and thrown around like toys.  

    Some people were lucky and didn’t lose power; some had generators. Those without power or generators may have been sitting by candlelight, or at a friend’s or relative’s home.  The loss of homes and property has been devastating.

    Today is August 21, and many people still have no power.  After this passes,  we will all have something to write about. 

    The one beautiful thing is that so many people have come together to help those in need by opening their homes for lodging, food, and showers.

    This is the second time in two months that tornadoes have raged through our area, causing major damage. 

Respectfully, 

Sharon Palmeri

July 23, 2026

(Note from Sharon Palmeri: I wanted to thank everyone again for the wonderful surprise birthday party. It truly meant a lot to me.)

July 23, 2026 – Called to Order at 6:05 PM

Sharon Palmeri asked if anyone had read the minutes.  Al Koch, Trent Pendley, and Karen Lauper all acknowledged having read the minutes.  The minutes were accepted.  Refreshments were served to acknowledge Sharon’s birthday, which was also on the 23^rd.   Sharon mentioned that Ruthann’s birthday was on the 22^nd, so it was a double celebration.  A photo was taken and is posted here.

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Sharon Buckman, Andrew Cummins, Nicholas Dapkus, Katerine Flotz, Ruthann Graczyk, Shirley Hinman, Al Koch, Karen Lauper, Bob Neuman, Judy Neuman, Sharon Palmeri, Trent D. Pendley, Diane Stratton, John Terpstra, and Shirley Vaughan.

OLD BUSINESS:

Sharon is waiting for submissions for our book.  She has received very few.  The deadline is July 30, 2026.  Diane asked if anyone needed a copy of the guidelines, as there are copies available.

NEW BUSINESS:

Diane advised that the Lake County Public Library in Merrillville is offering writing classes for four (4) months beginning in September and running through December.  There will be a different topic each month (e.g., write your family story, write your obituary, etc.), and writing prompts will be given to help you get started.  The first date is Wednesday, September 2^nd at 2:00 p.m.

Karen shared the good news that her story “Missing Pieces,” which she read on April 9^th about her father, will be published in Chicken Soup for the Soul, Miracles, and Other Wonders.

Diane mentioned that Grace Bierman, a writer from Valparaiso, Indiana, was a contestant on Jeopardy.

READINGS:

BOB NEUMAN read “Fire and Ice,” which is a poem about two contemporary events – the fires in Canada and the parasitic-infected Iceberg lettuce. 

SHIRLEY HINMAN read “The Water,” a poem inspired by the Indiana Dunes that describes how the water touches her soul and calls her to return repeatedly. 

JOHN TERPSTRA read Part 2 of “River Billies,” which details what a typical night was like at RiverBillies

AL KOCH read “20^th Century Tribute,” reminding us that time goes by at the speed of life.  The 20^th Century snippets presented here for review are an invitation and appetizers to more fully enjoy the diverse menu prepared and served throughout the past one hundred years.  As each cognitive morsel of life on Earth is visited, sampled, and savored, remembrance of each day’s treasure reminds us to value and appreciate the gift of each day.

SHIRLEY VAUGHAN continued reading from her novel entitled “The Path of Their Existence,” Chapter 9, about many people from Planet Turaeus who had died and traveled in the spiritual realm through the universe to a planet that was full of dinosaurs.  Shirley plans to submit this for the new Write-On Hoosiers 2026 book.

SHARON PALMERI read her story “…And They Call It Puppy Love 1963-1965.  She wrote of a boy named Ray, their correspondence while he was in Vietnam, and their eventual distancing.  She describes the high school dance with their first kiss, and the decoration he plucked off the wall for her.  That decoration bore the name John, which had no meaning at the time, but was the name of the man she eventually married.  She also read a poem she wrote about Ray just before becoming engaged to John entitled “I Wonder Why.”

SHARON BUCKMAN continued reading from her book “Canopy of Leaves,” where Ann, realizing she would be locked in the dark cabin for several days, starts to plan her escape.  At the end of the three days, she receives a nice surprise, discovering that Tom wasn’t all bad.

TRENT D. PENDLEY read Chapter 4, On Lake Michigan, from his book “Lewry Lurie,” which follows Nathan Franklin and a group of civic, cultural, and historical leaders as they meet aboard a yacht on Lake Michigan in June 2011, to launch an initiative documenting Indiana’s LGBT heritage, modeled after the state’s earlier Jewish Heritage Survey.  Under Drew Levinthal’s leadership, the group develops a mission statement and begins compiling influential individuals, organizations, historic sites, businesses, works of art, and cultural landmarks that have shaped Indiana’s LGBT history.  Nathan contributes his extensive knowledge of literature, regional history, and Jewish culture, recalling early LGBT-themed novels, notable Hoosiers, forgotten local landmarks, unusual legal cases, and the groundbreaking documentary Trembling Before G-d.  As the cruise concludes, Nathan continues recording additional names and institutions, demonstrating his passion for preserving overlooked historical narratives and reinforcing one of the novel’s central themes: that cultural memory is safeguarded through careful research, collaboration, and the recognition of communities whose contributions have too often been forgotten.

RUTHANN GRACZYK read a poem entitled “Loving Sid Vicious,” which describes how a feral cat inadvertently stumbles into finding a loving home and caring humans by meowing for food at the right door.

KAREN LAUPER read ‘A New School,’ from her book “Can You Push Me to Heaven?” Timmy begins a new elementary school with a positive outcome.  The highlight was a Spring Musical that he participated in, bringing his mom to tears and a new understanding of how capable her young son had become.

The Meeting was adjourned at 8:22 PM.

Respectfully submitted:

Ruthann Graczyk

 

 

 

 

July 9, 2026

 

July 9, 2026 – Called to Order at 6:10 PM

 

MEMBERS’ PRESENT:

Beverly Biehr, Amy Brailey, Sharon Buckman, Andrew Cummins, Nicholas Daykus, Bernadette Fortuna, Katerine Flotz, Gail Galvan, Ruthann Graczyk, Shirley Hinman, Lisa Keene, Al Koch, Karen Lauper, Tom Molnar, Bob Neuman, Judy Neuman, Sharon Palmeri, Trent D. Pendley, Diane Stratton, Shirley Vaughan.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Trent asked for an update on the book we are putting together.  Amy advised that Sharon has received very few submissions so far.  If you are planning to be in the book, please submit your entries to Sharon.  The deadline is July 30, 2026.  Each member is encouraged to submit 4 short stories or novel excerpts, or 8 to 10 poems, depending upon the length, for a maximum of 4,000 words overall.  Not all will be published, but it will give the selection committee several to choose from.  Font is Times New Roman, size 12, 1.15 spacing.  They should be sent in Word or PDF.  Excerpts are acceptable if the book is self-published, but you must mention when and where it was published.  Keep in mind that it is intended for family reading and will be on sale on Amazon.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

Amy Brailey announced that she will be in Africa for the next meeting.  She also brought her books: one is Draft to Digital and the other is KDP, and they show the difference in quality.  Her new book is “I Teach for Entertainment,” which relays the conversations she has with kids in the classroom.

GAIL GALVAN mentioned her audiobook, New Jack Rabbit City, which includes 4 original songs, is available on Amazon, or you can download it on Audible. 

SHIRLEY VAUGHAN advised that her and Amy’s books are being sold at Miles Book Store in Highland (Kennedy & Jewet Streets).  He carries approximately 84,000 books, does author signings, and prefers that the books be signed before he sells them.  He accepts one copy first to assess your writing capabilities, then requests two copies for sale.  If they are sold, he will contact you for additional copies and receive 40% of the sales.  They also have book binding capabilities.

 

READINGS:

SHIRLEY HINMAN read “The Fence Was Gone,” a story about a Jack Russell who meets her match with Scruffy from down the street and becomes very insecure when her owner dies and her fence is gone.

GAIL GALVAN read from her book “Skelly the Skunk Saves Freedom Day on Plant Ka-reecher” which is about the new mean rat ruler who wants to lock up all the skunks on the planet.  Skelly the skunk saves the day, though, and saves Freedom Day.

SHIRLEY VAUGHAN read an excerpt from her novel entitled “Heaven’s Plan.” It tells how the ‘Peace Sign’ originated in 1958.

BERNADETTE FORTUNA read a poem “Favorite Cups of Joy” about four favorite beverages that titillate the author’s tongue and bring moments of joy in a cup.

AL KOCH read a short story from his column Koch’s Choice entitled “When I Wore a Younger Man’s Clothes.” To understand and enjoy life’s journey, one needs to “see” with both eyes and heart.  Wisdom is hidden treasure at both ends of the rainbow within the gift of each day.  Aging is the price one pays to discover, enjoy, and share the goodness, thoughtfulness, and kindness of those who touch our life.

TOM MOLNAR read an excerpt from his short book “Time Out for Happiness,” which delivers insightful thinking on how to minimize sadness and increase joy.  It features quick pick-me-ups as well as longer-term strategies.  Once we discard the ways that don’t bring happiness and focus on those that do, like sharing with others, we will be well on our way to living a happier life.  The truths found in this book are affirmed by those who have spent much of their working lives finding real answers to what brings happiness and joy.

SHARON BUCKMAN read an excerpt from her book “Canopy of Leaves,” which relays that while the 15-year-old girl is planning her escape, she realizes that her captor has planned too well to keep her imprisoned as he went to town.

NICHOLAS DAPKUS read an excerpt from his book, “This Is a Beginning,” where Mr. Butterfly is leading Pugberus, the three-headed Pug, into the forest where he notices ruins among the trees and nature reclaiming the land.  At a stream, the hungry Stomacus insists they eat, so Pugberus removes the satchel containing the magic First Aid Cookie Kit from his back.  He notices an approaching turtle as Mr. Butterfly, who becomes impatient with Pugberus, flies away.  He engages in conversation with the turtle and offers him a bite of one of the cookies.

KAREN LAUPER read an excerpt from her book “Can You Push Me to Heaven.” This is Part 2 of ‘Timmy Goes to School’ where at 8-1/2 years old Timmy officially begins Public School. Besides missing several days in the 2^nd semester due to another hospitalization, it was a great beginning.

TRENT D. PENDLEY read Chapter 4 of his book “Lewry Lurie” where, while talking in the study of Brighton House, Nathan and Brad Franklin examine a collection of linen postcards from a 1947 family road trip along Highway 66 that their grandparents, Uncle Irving and Aunt Sylvia, and other relatives took shortly after World War II.  The postcards and accompanying photographs spark a wide-ranging discussion about family history, including connections to prominent Lurie relatives in San Francisco and Hollywood, the family’s association with the Mark Hopkins Hotel and Gene Autry, and a near-tragedy involving Deborah and a Catalina Island excursion.  The conversation turns more somber as the brothers reflect on the long-suppressed death of Irving and Sylvia’s young son, Billy, whose loss profoundly affected the family and became an unspoken sorrow passed down through the generations.  Nathan and Brad also discuss the discrimination faced by Jewish families in mid-century America, the importance of preserving family artifacts, and the likelihood that the family acquired their treasured Georgia O’Keeffe painting during the same 1947 journey.  Through the postcards, photographs, and memories they evoke, the brothers gain a deeper appreciation for their family’s history, resilience, and the role that seemingly ordinary keepsakes play in preserving a legacy that might otherwise be forgotten.

RUTHANN GRACZYK read the continuation of Chapter 2 from the novel “New Day,” which is the saga of the Slade family, where son Keith is reunited with his two grandsons and comes face-to-face with Kristi’s parents for the first time in almost four years.

 

The Meeting was adjourned at 8:26 PM.

Respectfully submitted:

Ruthann Graczyk

June 25, 2026

 WRITE ON HOOSIERS

June 25, 2026

The meeting was called to order at 6:00 pm

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Andrew Cummins, Katherine Flotz, Ruthann Graczyk, Cindy Horgash, Lisa Keene, Al Koch, Karen Lauper, Bob Neuman, Judy Neuman, Sharon Palmeri, Shirley Vaughn, and Nick Dapkus (guest)

OLD BUSINESS:

The minutes of May 28, 2026, were read and approved by Shirley Vaughn, and Al Koch seconded.  

Sharon Palmeri (Exec. Dir.) reminded members that time was running out for personal bios and story submissions for the WOH upcoming book.  The deadline is July 30, 2026.

Shirley Vaughn alerted members that the WOH 2026 Summer and Winter Meeting schedule listed incorrect dates for July.  The meetings will be held on July 9^th and 23^rd at Bulldog Park.

NEW BUSINESS:

Nick Dapkus (guest) introduced himself to the members and spoke of his interest in writing.  In turn, members introduced themselves and spoke of their writing experiences.

LITERARY NEWS:

Sharon Palmeri was asked by Gail Galvan to announce that the audio version of her book “New Jack Rabbit City” is available on Amazon (free to play).

Al Koch announced that the story of his lifelong marriage to his beautiful bride was printed in the newspaper.

READINGS:

SHIRLEY VAUGHN read her poem “Life” that she plans to enter in the new WOH book. 

KAREN LAUPER read Part 2 of her book, “Can You Push Me to Heaven.” At 8 ½, Timmy begins public school in a special education classroom.  Timmy’s mom begins easing up on her overprotective parenting style as Timmy reaches a new stage in his life that his family sees as God’s will.

RUTHANN GRACZYK read the continuing saga of the Slade family, titled “New Day,” which surrounds the life of son Keith, the third child of Christine and Mark Slade, who met in Liverpool, England, in the mid-1960s in Book 1 – “Dawn.” The following is Chapter 1, where Keith and Kristi express their love for each other. The beginning of Chapter 2, where Kristi prepares for her two sons to be reunited with their grandfather.

AL KOCH read a piece titled “The 28^th Amendment to the United States Constitution – A Proposal.” Celebrating the 250^th birthday of the USA, and an idea whose time has come-the 28^th Amendment to the United States Constitution.

“Oh, Say but I’m Glad” is the piece read by BOB NEUMAN about counting his blessings.

“Don’t Hang Up,” read by SHARON PALMERI, read the last part of her short story about Maria, an interior decorator whose husband was in the Army. Upon meeting a prospective client at a restaurant, the client seemed desperate to use Maria’s phone. After using it, she returned in tears, telling Maria that she was very, very sorry.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 pm.

Respectfully Submitted:

CINDY HORGASH