2010 "Spotlight on Writing"

Good eats, great company and lots of gifts!

2010 Banquet -- best selling novel prompts?

Last regular Meeting for 2010 is Weds. November 17 -- It's party time in December!

MEMBERS:

This is just a note to let you know that the magazine is about ready for publication. I will have a mock-up of the magazine on at the meeting on Weds. November 17.

If all goes well, we will celebrate the revival of Hoosier Horizon magazine. The last issue was printed in 2000.

This indeed has been a great year for WOH. We now have 27 members!

We have 36 people attending our December 1st party at Four Seasons Clubhouse so far. The deadline for paying $17.50 is November 24. There will be gifts as well as a good time for all. Best of all this year we will have the unveiling of our magazine.

Here is the menu:
o Roast Turkey with Dressing
o Ham
o Mashed Potatoes and Gravy
o Sweet Potato Casserole
o Green Beans
o Tossed Salad with 3 Dressing Choices
o Apple Pie

Truly this 21st anniversary year has been a landmark year for us.

Thank you all -- see you on Weds. at the Lakes of the Four Seasons Clubhouse at 6pm.

Sharon

WOH MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 17, 2010

GUESTS PRESENT: Nancy Ritz

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Beverly Stanislawski, John Boufis, Sandra Nantais, Tom Spencer, Lisa Groszek, Pamela Gonzalez, Jackie Huppenthal, Kelly Chase, Laurie Chase, Sharon Jesik, Katherine Flotz, Sharon Buckman, Sharon Palmeri, Mike Musak, Judy Whitcomb

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Sharon Palmeri announced that the new Hoosier Horizon books will distributed at the Christmas Party on December 1st. She was able to achieve a reduced cost of $6.50 per book.

NEWS:

1. Nancy Ritz, our newest guest, related that she resides in Calumet City and met Sharon Palmeri in l99l when she attended one of her writing classes at Purdue. She enjoys writing poetry and short stories and is presently working on a novel.

2. Sharon Jesik stated she is presently working on her novel and has been enjoying making stuffed sea horses for her grandchildren.

3. Laurie Chase is continuing working on her novel. She also reminded WOH members of her invitation to attend the Christmas program at the Bethany Chapel in Lowell. The program is entitled "Smokey Mountain Christmas" and features both Laurie and her husband.

4. Jackie Huppenthal stated she has been busy writing poems and working with her photography. She also stated that Judy, Katherine and herself had some of their poetry printed in the "Edge of the Prairie" magazine.

5. Pamela Gonzalez has been busy babysitting for her grandchildren. This has introduced her to some of their childrens books and possibly given her some ideas for writing future books for children.

6. Lisa Groszek mentioned that she has presently written 30,000 words for the 50,000 word contest she is entering for National Writing Month.

7. Tom Spencer reminded us that his poetry group will be meeting again in Lowell on Saturday, Nov. 20th. We discovered, through another member, that he also won an award in a poetry contest given by the League of Minnesota Poets.

8. Sandra Nantais has been busy showing some of her works at the Porter County Holidaze. The program is presented at the Porter County fairgrounds. She stated she has also been busy writing some Polish stories, remembered from her childhood.

9. Judy Whitcomb has been working on a story that she stated will not be a children's book this time. She did find out, however, that publishers for children's books are very interested in stories involving science and ecology.

10. John Boufis stated he has presently been so busy attending various school meetings that he has been unable to do any writing. He plans on changing this during the Thanksgiving break.

11. Beverly Stanislawski is still busy with her poetry and is presently waiting to hear from a Texas contest she entered a short time ago.

12. Sharon Buckman stated she has been at a stand still since both her printer and copier broke on the same day.


13. Mike Musak is trying to work on an unfinished murder mystery screen play. WOH members are hoping he will bring some of his newest work to a meeting so they can try out some of their acting skills.

14. Katherine Flotz and her husband attended another speaking engagement at the Rensselaer Middle School concerning her book, "Pebble in my Shoe." This is also leading to another speaking engagement at a North Judson school. She has sold over 30,000 books at this point. Katherine also stated she received an E-mail from a Toronto man stating he would like a hard copy of her book - he a had a relative that was also in the same internment camp mentioned in her book.

15. Sharon Palmeri stated that she and Katherine were unable to attend our last meeting due to a prior commitment. They attended the Legacy Foundation for Writers where they were awarded a plaque and very large poster, the type used for an easel presentation. She also mentioned a networking event for writers in the Lafayette community entitled "An Afternoon to Write About", on Dec. 4th and concerning the topic of how to develop a writing habit.

READINGS:

SHARON BUCKMAN continued with the last chapter of her book, "Canopy of Leaves." The young girl, trying to escape from her captor, finds an old row boat. After getting it uprighted she pushes it out into the river with her dog, belongings and herself inside, only to find after a few minutes that they are beginning to sink.

SHARON JESIK also continued with her story, "Corn Dancer." In this part of her book the friends of the deceased were trying to find an explanation for their previous encounter with her spirit, by heading towards the foothills of the San Mateo mountains and a man that they thought might have some answers.

PAMELA GONZALEZ read a two page memoir of the things she remembered, and loved, the most concerning her "gramps." The delightful story had a surprise ending when we learned that "gramps" was really her grandmother. The story was entitled "Christmas With Gramps."

LAURIE CHASE read "You Gotta Love That Country Music," a very humorous reading of the various country stars and the songs they made famous.

KELLY CHASE continued with her story, "The Ring." In this part of the story, she tells a friend of her boyfriends deception with a cheerleader. When the boyfriend later joins her she decides to pretend that everything is normal.

LISA GROSZEK read chapter one of her book, "Spirit Heath." The story tells of the death of a l08 yr. old man as the spirit leaves his body, witnessed by his caregiver of the past five years, and his conversation with "Senior Eleanor," as she tries to introduce him to his newest existence.

TOM SPENCER brought his newest poem, "The Curse of Age." The four stanza poem, as related by the title, tells what happens to the mind with age, leaving the daughter to wonder if this will also be her fate.

SANDRA NANTAIS read a story relating to her childhood memories entitled, "North Hammond Rat Pack." The story told of the Saturday night parties in her parents basement and how much they meant to her family as well as all of their friends.

BEVERLY STANISLAWSKI read her three stanza poem entitled, "Soldiers of the Corn." The poem related the rows of corn, standing at attention during harvesting time, awaiting the enemy - the John Deere tractor.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 P.M.


Respectfully submitted:

Sharon Buckman

WOH MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 3, 2010

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Beverly Stanislawski, Sharon Jesik, Tom Spencer, Sandra Nantais, George Miga, Mary Wooley, Sharon Buckman, Liz Wilson, John Cotey, John Boufis, Michelle Vargas, Kelly Chase, Laurie Chase

NEWS:

1. Tom Spencer announced that his poetry club, in Lowell, took ten out of the ninety-one awards given by the Indiana State Federation of Poetry Club (ISFPC). He also stated he attended the State Reading for Poetry at McCormick Creek State Park and his group will be hosting this event in the spring.

2. Beverly Stanislawski astounded us all by stating that she had taken fourteen different awards this past month, some monetary, from five different states, Ohio, Arkansas, Indiana, Texas and Florida - all poetry.
Congratulations Beverly!

3. John Boufis stated he has been busy chairing the School Improvement Committee. He also informed us he belongs to the Title One Reading Program (a program designed for "at risk" children to bring up their reading skills).

4. Sharon Jesik has been busy writing and doing research on the Zuni native American tribes, a necessity for the book she is writing. She stated they seem to have a language all of their own.

5. Sandra Nantais stated she has been busy with her photo club, which included driving to Turkey Creek.

6. Laurie Chase has been busy starting a new novel, "Biding His Time." She also issued an invitation for our group to attend the free musical at her church, Bethany Chapel, on Dec. ll th - she and her husband are in the Christmas musical.

7. Kelly Chase is still very busy writing and doing her high school homework.

8. George Miga has been busy trying to re-arrange his third novel, "Gray Gorillas," as suggested by a friend. He is also thinking about finding a script writer for his first novel, "Final Mission, Grant and Lee."

9. Liz Wilson stated she recently visited most of her family members in Lafayette; all of the children that attended ended up getting sick.

10. John Cotey has been very busy working two jobs and attending Calumet Community College where he is taking classes in child psychology.

11. Mary Wooley stated she took a trip to Houston followed by attending a class reunion in her hometown of Palacios, Texas. She is also working on a 50,000 word contest for National Novel Writing Month.

12. Michelle Vargas stated she had an article printed, "Light of the World," for the Lutheran Witness Magazine. She has also been working on two skits, object lessons for sermons, for her church.

13. Sharon Buckman has been busy working on her novel, "Canopy of Leaves, " as well as trying to help in closing up their cabin for the winter.

READINGS:

BEVERLY STANISLAWSKI read her poem, "I LOVE ART," a poem explaining her love of all art, a portrait or landscape, as long as she can fathom the various and styles and colors.

MICHELLE VARGAS describes her wonder as a child in the various lights at Advent time in her church. The short story is entitled "The Lights of the World." She also describes the fear of her hair possibly catching on fire from the various candles.

SHARON JESIK continued reading from her novel, "Corn Dancer." In this part of her novel, Luck, the best friend of recently deceased Doty, goes into a shocked state as other friends witness him being almost completely covered with sand. After he is rescued from this they discover the "sand" was really dead bees.

TOM SPENCER brought his seven stanza poem entitled, "In Mind of Time." The poem tells of the aging of the mind, passing from the teenage years to later years and asking the reader to enjoy the memories.

SANDRA NANTAIS read her article, "Gotchies." Gotchies, plural polish name for underwear, was part of her childhood memories, especially at Christmas when her grandmother's Christmas gift to her was a full box of "gotchies."

LAURIE CHASE continued reading her novel, "Dual Heritage." In this continuation, Dr. Togalaz, who is half human and half allizorn, is trying to adjust to the ship she has been assigned to. Most of the colors, etc., are not consistent with the things she is used to and she asks to have them replaced.

KELLEY CHASE continues with her story entitled, "The Ring." After finding out that tragedy had actually fallen upon a girl who was trying to date her boyfriend, she felt very guilty, especially since it had happened in the way she had originally hoped.

LIZ WILSON continued with chapter one of her novel, "Bottomside." In this suspenseful novel the main character, Zophie, becomes alarmed when hearing strange noices coming from outside of her patio doors. After opening the doors and stepping outside she almost freezes in terror when she sees strange small people beneath her balcony.

JOHN COTEY read his short story entitled, "Finders Keepers." This half true story tells of his memory of an event which happened in his teen years. After finding out his parents were planning a trip to Florida, John plans a party in their absence, a party which included a case of beer. The beer was found by his parents shortly before their departure, needless to say the party never happened.

MARY WOOLEY read her short story, "Mary's Fairy." The story tells of a ten year old girl, living with her grandmother, and living in her make believe world which includes a small fairy that her grandmother cannot see.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:50 P.M.

Respectfully submitted:

Sharon Buckman

MINUTES FOR OCTOBER 20, 2010

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Sharon, Jesik, Sharon Buckman, Kathy Flotz, Beverly Stanislawski, Cathy Dziubla, Sharon Palmeri, George Miga, Lisa Groszek, Jackie Huppenthal, Sandra Nantais, Laurie Chase, Tom Spencer, Judy Whitcomb, Kellly Chase, Pam Gonzalez

NEWS:

l. Beverly Stanislawski told of her car accident which had occurred on her way to the last Write On Hoosiers meeting. Her car took most of the bruising.

2. Sharon Buckman stated she had just returned from a camping trip with her husband and friends to find a new laptop computer laying on her dining room table, a belated birthday present from her husband.

3. Kathy Flotz will be attending another speaking engagement at Purdue University concerning her book, Pebble in My Shoe. She will also attend another one at a Rensselaer Middle School where she has already sold forty books.

4. Judy Whitcomb has attended the Indiana Writers’ Consortium and stated the organization received a grant in the amount of approx. $l600 from the Crown Point Community Foundation for a pilot children’s poetry project POPP (Power of Poetry Project.

5. George Miga attended two schools for the handicapped, IDTC, in Lafayette and Indianapolis, to help start a crisis management program.

6. Tom Spencer just returned from Ohio and stated that Murphy’s Law is now Toms Law (?).

7. Laurie Chase stated she has just had both parents in the hospital with a death of another family member at the same time. Both parents are now doing better.

8. Sandy Nantais attended Autumn Days in Lowell as well as a fine arts show in Illinois. She stated it was a great day, however, it was followed by a GPS adventure that wasn't so great. To top it all off she lost her cat.

9. Lisa Groszek stated she has been working with her students on a project for National Writing Month. She also lost her cat, must be that time of year.

10. Jackie Huppenthal has been busy with her two boys starting basketball, and she has been teaching tumbling to preschoolers as well as coaching toddler soccer.

11. Kathy Dziubla said that she was continuing with writing her children’s book, and also encouraged all of us to "get out and vote."

12. Sharon Jesik has been writing some poetry after attending Tom's poetry classes.

13. Kelley Chase stated she hasn't had much time to write due to homework.

14. Pam Gonzalez also has had little time to write due to her work schedule.

15. Sharon Palmeri has been busy with the Indiana Writers' Consortium’s Children’s Project, as well as helping the Hobart Alumni Assn. obtain tax exempt status and also working on her high school reunion committee. She has completed the last of six workshops she attended sponsored by the Legacy Foundation. The workshops dealt information on strategy, clarity of purpose, fund-raising, roles, accountability, and resources for the not for profit organization. With all of these commitments she had no time for writing anything for tonight.

READINGS:

SHARON JESIK read four pages of her book, Corn Dancer. In this part of the story the friends of deceased Dotty have entered her house to find her paintings hung upside down as well as other items weirdly misplaced.

SHARON BUCKMAN continued with "Escape," the last chapter of her book. In this chapter the young girl, trying to escape her captor, flees through wooded terrain in the hills of Kentucky with her captor not far behind.

KATHY FLOTZ continued with Chapter Two of her new book, The Journey. This part of the story relates to the mother's remembrance of taking in an American flyer near the end of World War II and hiding him in their home during the Christmas holiday.

BEVERLY STANISLAWSKI read her poem, Do Not Cry About a Broken Heart. The four stanza poem tells of the pain of a broken heart that is presently in despair but can someday bring joy again after it has repaired.

LISA GROSZEK continued with her "untitled story," which concerned a spirit named Dominic trying to warn his ex-wife and others of the impending danger by the things he types on a computer screen.

JACKIE HUPPENTHAL wrote a free verse poem about her feelings after being betrayed by a good friend.

SANDY NANTAIS read her five stanza poem, "Purgatory." The poem, complete with pictures, tells of the "sad souls shifting between truth, disbelief, hope and despair," in a cemetery locking them behind iron gates.

LAURIE CHASE continued with her book, "Dual Heritage." The story tells of the difficulty of Dr. Togalaz, an Allizorn physician, getting along with other races, specifically humans, on board the ship she has been assigned to.

TOM SPENCER brought his poem, "Late Winter Reflections." The poem tells of the necessity of gray winter days which eventually bring "rebirth of life."

KELLY CHASE read a story, untitled at the moment, concerning a boyfriend caught kissing another girl. The girlfriend wishes a tragic accident upon the "other girl" which soon became a reality.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:35 P.M.

Respectfully submitted:
Sharon Buckman

WOH Minutes Oct. 6, 2010

Members present: Sharon Palmeri, Kathy Flotz, George Miga, Sharon Jesik, Cathy Dziubla, Judy Whitcomb, Tom Spencer, Sandra Nantais, John Cotey, Liz Wilson, Kelly Chase, Laurie Chase, Pam Gonzales, Lisa Groszek, Bev Stanislawski.

News
Sharon Palmeri opened the meeting showing the Hosier Horizon cover design. Tom Spencer also distributed proofs of some writings for the magazine for the authors to edit. Today was the last day to submit entries. The magazines will cost approximately $6 each. Sharon needs to know the number of copies members want so printing can proceed. Please give her your order soon. She also passed out release forms for all magazine writers to sign.

Tom Spencer will be a guest speaker at the Ohio Poetry Day, Oct. 15-16. His P.O.V. (point of view) writing presented an interesting way to recognize and to enjoy a story with omniscient point of view.

Sandra Nantais will be a vender for Fall Fest in Lowell, featuring photography. “The Crazy Cat Lady” taught us all about some felines, including beautiful color photos.

Judy Whitcomb shared some concerns about her daughter’s surgery. Her “Nonie’s Revenge” offering showed just how involved and emotional dog owners can become. We laughed through most of her reading.

Lisa Groszek told about having a book signing of Lonesome Isle at Mellowbrew Cheesecake House. Lisa kept us wondering if her untitled book character Dominic was really alive or dead. The mystery continues….

Cathy Dziubla has been traveling and writing two more chapters of her book.

Kathy Flotz spoke at Lowell and Wheatfield libraries, sold more of her Pebble in My Shoe books, and made some connections for additional talks.
Pam Gonzalez has been busy working and writing submissions for Hoosier Horizons.
Mike Musak is still looking for more information about writing/submitting screen plays.
His humorous play, The Bar, gave three of our men an opportunity to “ham it up” as they read the parts.

Laurie Chase spent some time editing her book and correcting car troubles. She gave an “Evelyn Wood’s speed reading of her selection from Dual Heritage, featuring her protagonist who is half human and half Allizorn.

Beverly Stanislawski reported winning two HM in Ohio’s Poetry Day contest and several awards in the Poetry Society of Tennessee competition, including a second, third, and 5 HM’s. Her short story, ”The Friendly Card Game” told of some humorous happenings between friends at a bridge game.

Kelly Chase (minus her braces and with new red hair) kept us in suspense wondering if her characters Ranee or Nicole, from Unintentional Treasure Hunting would keep the jewels, especially that beautiful ruby ring.
Sharon Jesik spends time writing, working, and editing. Her reading, from Corn Dancer, with its marvelous descriptions and narration, caught us up in a death investigation involving Luck and Cinda.

Sharon Palmeri is busy as ever with teaching, writing, and helping with Hoosier Horizon plans. She offered “Sign of the Times” from a prompt that asked one to pick any book, turn to page 56, go down 5 lines and write the first full sentence as the first sentence of your new story. Her offering had us guessing just what time it was and what would happen to our hero and his “computer” friend.

John Cotey spends time writing and in his extra job. “Do I Look Bald in This” was his humorous reading which told of his attempts to emulate one of his childhood heroes, Han Solo, and the reactions from his sisters and others to his choice of fashions.
Liz Wilson working on completing the last draft of her urban fantasy novel. Her offering, “Bottomside,” was quite “electrifying” as one character Hadrian lit up like a Christmas tree as he felt the effects of the “spell.” Good background about Chicago in the tale, too.

George Miga continues to work on three novels and search for agents and publishers. He also told us about a Writer Beware list of bad agents he had found.

MINUTES FOR SEPTEMBER 15, 2010

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Beverly Stanislawski, Sharon Buckman, Sandra Nantais, Tom Spencer, Kelley Chase, Laurie Chase, Pam Gonzalez, Michelle Vargas, Sharon Jesik, Jackie Huppenthal, Judy Whitcomb and Sharon Palmeri

NEWS:

1. Beverly Stanislawski happily announced that she had taken first place for a literary award from the Life Press Christian Writers Assn. for her short story, "The Passover Lamb." She received a monetary award as well - congratulations Beverly.

2. Sandra Nantais stated she had just recently returned from California and hasn't had much chance to do any writing.

3. Tom Spencer reported on his Labor Day party stating it had gone very well and he thought everyone had a good time. He also stated the deadline to submit poems for the Poetry Book is Saturday.

4. Kelley Chase, hiding her light under that bushel, did not want to reveal that she marched in the Labor Day parade.

5. Laurie Chase, still working on having her niece edit her book, stated she became an aunt again this past week.

6. Pamela Gonzalez stated her husband is insisting that she submit her "Frightened Fairy" poem to a publisher by Saturday - she's looking for one.

7. Michelle Vargas, who joined WOH today, stated she received an E-mail from the Lutheran Witness Magazine stating they had accepted her piece, "The Light of the World." It will be in the November issue.

8. Sharon Jesik told of an author friend of hers, Scott Phillips, who had written "Ice Harvest," a book later turned into a movie starring John Cusak, has written another book.

9. Jackie Huppenthal stated she and her family went to Tom Spencer's Labor Day party and had a wonderful time. She also has an author friend, David L. Harrison, who had written a book on volcanos. Jackie found out the book had been talked about in her son's class at school and after telling her friend he sent a letter to the class.

10. Judy Whitcomb stated the "Magic Hour," the writers club for children's books, had Kathy Flotz as their guest speaker last week and it went very well.

11. Sharon Palmeri, after going through her various writings for the WOH book, decided to do a little more writing. She also told of having to take her dog, Chrissy, for surgery involving fatty tumors.

12. Sharon Buckman stated she has been enjoying the extra writing she has been involved with pertaining to her book, "Canopy of Leaves."

READINGS:

SHARON BUCKMAN read the first two pages of the last chapter of her book. The chapter, "Escape," told how the thirteen year old girl managed to get free and is presently in the process of living in the wilderness trying to find help.

BEVERLY STANISLAWSKI read her prize winning story, "The Passover Lamb." The story told of a young boy, Jonathan, taking his lamb to the priest for the annual Passover sacrifice. The lamb escaped in the process of trying to get him there, causing Jonathan to come in contact with a stranger who tried to help him. The story has a surprise ending.

SANDY NANTAIS had written a true short story involving her recent trip to California, more specifically, a laundromat. The story, "Bush & Stockton Street Coin Laundry," told of seeing so many people living in the streets of San Francisco and of one particular old man who entered the laundromat just to steal her full cup of Starbucks coffee.

TOM SPENCER wrote a one page short story, in the second person, entitled "Self Evaluation." The story told of the dilemma of a man fishing in an old boat that had capsized and trying to figure out how to get back into it.

MICHELLE VARGAS read the beginning of chapter one of her non-titled book. The story told of her desire to avenge her father's gruesome death and the courage she and her friend had to achieve this.

SHARON JESIK read a few more pages of her book, "Corn Dancer." In this part of the story, Luck, a close friend of the deceased Dotty, was trying to go through her art gallery files, hoping to find a possible clue as to her murderer; instead he believes he encounters her ghost.

JACKIE HUPPENTHAL read her nine stanza poem of the average life of a frenzied housewife. The poem, addressed to her husband, tries to explain it all to him, hoping he won't add to her stress by remarking it is still a mess.

KELLY CHASE continued with her story, "Unintentional Treasure Hunting." This part of the story told of the teenage girls finding a hidden room in the basement of the deserted house and ended before they could find out what was inside.

LAURIE CHASE continued with her book, "Dual Heritage." The story continues with Dr. Togalaz, a woman who is half human and half Allizorn, trying to apply for a position at a medical facility without giving them all the details of her past physical history, being half human.

SHARON PALMERI read her short story entitled, "On Call." The story relates to the time she worked as a technician in obstetrics and tries to understand why it seems more babies are always born under a full moon.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:50 P.M.

Respectfully submitted:
Sharon Buckman

MINUTES FOR SEPTEMBER 1, 2010

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Pamela Gonzalez, Kelly Chase, Laurie Chase, Tom Spencer, Sharon Jesik, Judy Whitcomb, Mary Wooley, Sharon Palmeri, Jackie Huppenthal, Kathy Flotz, Sharon Buckman, Pat Stevens

GUESTS PRESENT:

Liz Wilson, John Cotey, Michelle Vargas

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Sharon Palmeri stated she had received various E-mails from some of our members who haven't been at our meetings recently. They consisted of the following:

Audrey Warzyniak has been busy taking care of her mother who has been ill for the past several months.

Lisa Groszek mentioned she hasn't been able to come due to conflicting dates.

John Boufis was unable to attend this past meeting due to a friend's death.

Sandra Nantais is still in California -- she has a funny story we would like her to relate when she returns.

Beverly Stanislawski was unable to attend our last meeting due to illness.

Paul Mulligan hopes to attend our next meeting. He has had conflicting employment dates.

Mark Richardson, who has been gone from WOH for a while explained that with four kids of various school ages, soccer, and other responsibilities week nights are difficult for him to get out.

GOOD PR:

Writer's Magazine has published some information about us, making a total of three different sources concerning WOH when you add in our web site and our blog.

REMINDERS:

Palmeri also reminded members to get their stories and poems in to Tom Spencer by the next meeting for Hoosier Horizon Magazine so he can start working on formatting the magazine.

She also reminded members who plan to attend the Christmas Party to get their money in soon.

NEWS:
Due to the attendance of three new guests, our members again took time to relate some information about themselves as well as their writing preferences. From this time forward each new guest will be given a one page copy of each member's bio. Since these bios also appeared at the last meeting only the guests, new members, and those who were not at the last meeting will be listed here today, but will appear in our archived minutes:

1. Pat Stevens, a new member, is presently writing an autobiography. He stated he enjoyed receiving all the good information he received at our last meeting.

2. Pam Gonzales stated she has just recently started getting back into writing. She has been working on a short story. The idea for the story came from the funeral home where she is presently employed.

3. Michelle Vargus, a new guest, enjoys writing which concerns different genres. She has recently written for the Christian Writer's Guild.

4. John Cotey, also a new guest, stated he enjoys writing science fiction and poetry.

5. Liz Wilson, our last new guest, stated she attended Calumet College and is presently on her third draft of a novel she is writing.

6. Mary Wooley, formerly a staff reporter for a daily newspaper, has just recently finished a novel for which she is seeking an agent. She also enjoys photography.

READINGS:

PAM GONZALES read her delightful story entitled, "A Royal Jumping." The story told of an older woman attending her deceased sister's funeral and the special attention she demanded for herself. The surprise ending came after she jumped into her sister's casket and had to be carried out of the funeral home.

KELLY CHASE, had to write her short story, "Unintentional Treasure Hunting," during her study hour at school. The story told of several teenage girls going through an old deserted house at night. The only light they had worn their flashlights and as it ended they were getting ready to go downstairs.

LAURIE CHASE read three pages from Chapter One of her fantasy novel, "Dual Heritage." The story concerns a young woman, half human and half Allizorn, wanting to leave Zoristall, the place where her father lives and where she has been persecuted for being half human.

TOM SPENCER relayed his poem, "Legacy of Rita." The five stanza poem told of the preparation involving the hurricane, Rita, and of the change of attitude for following hurricanes.

SHARON JESIK read four pages of her book, "Corn Dancer." This part of the story related to the art gallery of their deceased friend and how they should dispose of it and her other belongings.

JUDY WHITCOMB continued with her story, "My Grandma is a Science Teacher." Grandma, the teacher, explains to her class about the importance of gravity in her chapter, "Center of Gravity."

MARY WOOLEY read two pages of her story, "Play Like I'm Sheena - Queen of the Jungle." The story tells of the life and poverty of seven young children living at home with a mother who seemed to have a severe mental problem as well.

KATHY FLOTZ continued with her novel, "The Journey." The story takes place following World War 11 and tells of a young mother and her two sons, while trying to locate her missing husband, is contacted by a young American flyer they befriended during the war.

SHARON BUCKMAN continues with her novel, "Canopy of Leaves." The young teenage girl, who has been held captive for the past four months, is beginning to activate her plan of escape.

PAT STEVENS read two pages of his autobiography, "Patrick." In his revised version of the autobiography, Pat reveals to the psychologist that his father's death may have been a homicide, committed by his stepfather and involving his mother as well.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 P.M.
Respectfully submitted;
Sharon Buckman

MINUTES FOR AUGUST 18, 2010

MEMBERS PRESENT:
Beverly Stanislawski, George Miga, Sharon Palmeri, Sharon Buckman, Kathy Flotz, Sharon Jesik, Kelley Chase, Laurie Chase, Tom Spencer, Sandra Nantais, Jackie Huppenthal, Judy Whitcomb, Lisa Groszek

GUESTS PRESENT:
Patrick Stevens
NEWS:

Each member took time to introduce themselves to our new member as well as stating their writing preference.

l. Sharon Palmeri introduced herself as a teacher who also enjoys writing poetry, memoirs and short stories.

2. Sharon Buckman stated she has been a member of WOH for several years. She enjoys writing short stories and is presently working on a book.

3. Beverly Stanislawski enjoys writing poetry as well as an occasional short story.

4. Sharon Jesik is a recent member from Kansas who enjoys writing poetry and is presently working on a novel.

5. Patrick Stevens, our new guest, is a emergency medical technician who teaches nursing students and paramedics.

6. George Miga, a retiree from BP, enjoys writing and has written several novels.

7. Kelley Chase, a high school student in ROTC, is presently working on a book about pirates. She intends on someday becoming a neurologist.

8. Laurie Chase is presently working on two science fiction novels and one thriller; she also works in a group home.

9. Sandra Nantais enjoys writing free style poetry. She intends to write a memoir at a later date.

10. Tom Spencer invited everyone to a Labor Day celebration at his house in Lowell, IN. Tom is known for his wonderful poetry and also writes an occasional short story.

11. Judy Whitcomb enjoys writing children's stories, helping to start Children’s Magic Hour Writers club. Judy also wrote a chapter, Volume 2, for Teachers and Researchers.

12. Jackie Huppenthal combines her love of writing, mostly children's stories, with photography. She recently won second place in a photo contest at the Lake County Fair.

13. Kathy Flotz has already written one novel and is presently working on her second. She has been invited to be the guest speaker for the Magic Hour Writers Club.

14. Lisa Groszek is presently working on part two of her second novel. She invited everyone to the book signing of her first novel, "Lonesome Isle", at the Melabrew Cheesecake House on Aug. 28th from 2:00 to 6:00.

READINGS:
SHARON BUCKMAN read a short story, she had written several years prior, enititled "Our Guardian Angels." It was a true story told of her son's near account with death while wearing a skier's life saving belt and being caught in an upside down position in the water.

BEVERLY STANISLAWSKI read a short story entitled "Sun Spots." The very cute children's story told of a grandfather explaining to his grandaughter about a "prideful sun," and ended with the punishment being a solar eclipse.

JUDY WHITCOMB wrote a story entitled, "My Grandma is a Science Teacher." The story told of the downfalls of having a grandmother who was also a science teacher, however, it had a very happy ending when the grandaughter also discovered the up side as well.

JACKIE HUPPENTHAL, again combining her love of writing with photography, wrote a four stanza poem entitled, "Leopard Frog." The poem, written about a frog in her back yard, was accompanied with pictures.

SANDRA NANTAIS read her four stanza poem entitled, "Blue Denim Jeans." Her poem told of her love of the "well washed, well worn, " denim jeans, the love of her life.
SHARON JESIK continued with her story "Corn Dancer." The story continues with a seance given for a recently departed friend and the intrusion of an "uninvited guest," instead.

TOM SPENCER suprised us by taking a break from poetry and read a short story, "Drugstore Plowboy." The story told of the plight of a "never do well" plowboy who couldn't seem to keep a job. In the end he even botched his own suicide.

LISA GROSZEK read her continued "untitled story," of a surprise caller who she had thought died several years prior. The caller, appearing on her computer screen, set her in a panic mode and concerned her son.

KATHY FLOTZ continued with pages three and four of her newest novel, "The Journey." The story tells of the ordeal of an immigrant and her two children in search of her husband and a new home in war torn Germany after World WarII.

PATRICK STEVENS read part of his autobiography. The two pages he read concerned the death of his mother and how it had affected his family.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:45P.M.

Respectfully submitted:
Sharon Buckman

WOH MINUTES FOR AUGUST 4, 2010

GUESTS PRESENT:
Kirstin Kottka

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Beverly Stanislawski, Sharon Buckman, John Bouris, Laurie Chase, Kelly Chase, Kathy Flotz, Sharon Jesik, Mary Wooley, Lisa Groszek, Jackie Huppenthal, Judy Whitcomb, Tom Spencer, Sandra Nantais, Sharon Palmeri

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Sharon Palmeri stated that she would appreciate anyone attending the WOH Christmas Party pay in advance, if possible. The amount of $l7.50 per person will be given to the LOFS Clubhouse to help reserve the space needed for our party. Sharon also asked for members to turn in their prose and short stories (no more than five pages total) as soon as possible.

NEWS:

l. Laurie Chase stated she has been trying to have her niece edit her book, "Dual Heritage."

2. Kelly Chase has started doing some writing on a story for WOH.

3. Kathy Flotz hasn't been doing any writing for the moment.

4. Beverly Stanislawski has been busy vacuuming water out of her basement caused from the recent floods

5. Sharon Buckman stated she was unable to attend the last meeting due to a very busy family reunion that involved her and their cabin.

6. Kirstin Kottka announced she just recently got a job. She also stated she has been revising her novel.

7. Mary Wooley stated she has been busy working on a mystery novel.

8. Sharon Jesik stated she has been enjoying writing again and is presently working on a story that, for the moment, is nameless.

9. Sharon Palmeri has been doing a lot of writing for a class program.

10. Lisa Groszek has been busy promoting her book "Lonesome Isle."

11. Jackie Huppenthal has entered two of her poems in different contests. One poem in a children's book and the other in the League of Minn. Poets.

12. Judy Whitcomb stated she has been busy revising her weather unit.

13. John Boufis was happy to announce he has started writing again. He will read some of it this evening.

14. Tom Spencer announced he will need all of the submissions for Hoosier Horizons by the third Wed. in September.

15. Sandra Nantais has written a poem, in cascade form, which she plans on reading tonight.


READINGS:

Beverly Stanislawski read her newest poem, "Silent Guardian." The poem tells of a graveyard, Beverly frequently passes, with two cedar sentinels standing guard at the entrance and some of the weathered inscriptions on the headstones telling a story of their own.

Sharon Buckman read two pages from her fourth chapter of her book, "Canopy of Leaves." The story involved more of the plot of a young teenage girl trying to escape her captor.

John Boufis first read a one page synopsis and later a one page fragment of his book "Tears of the Soul." The story dwelled on the character, Andronicus, who believed he had witnessed the murder of his brother and later found him to be alive.

Laurie Chase read the prologue of her fantasy novel, "Dual Heritage." The book, which might have a title change later, tells of a young Allizorn woman (name given to a future race) who has the misfortune to be half Allizorn and half human.

Kelly Chase read her delightful story, "Bloody Mary and the Pirate Queen." The story tells of a merchant ship being taken over by pirates and the request of the captain to be killed quickly. It has a surprise ending.

Sharon Jesik read her story, "Corn Dancer." It told of the death of a close friend and the suspicion of her murder. Sharon was encouraged to continue with the story and turn it into a book.

Mary Wooley told a sad story, in poetry form, called "This Long Grievous Night." The story involved the loss of a mother's last born child, as well as her other children, in a senseless war, and the agony she now had to endure.

Lisa Groszek read two pages of the sequel to her already published book, "Lonesome Aisle." The story dwelled on a young son named Mitchell and his remarkable advancement through his school years. The ending of the second page left us all wondering about the next few pages to come.

Jackie Huppenthal continued the memoir she had started a few weeks prior. The memoir was a "I Remember When," project given by WOH and told of her return from Alaska to Indiana. The memoir was told in her teenage version and enjoyed by everyone.

Tom Spencer read his four stanza poem, "Burning Books Within the Mind." The poem was beautiful, as usual, and he was advised to submit it into the Hoosier Horizon.

Judy Whitcomb read a five paragraph story called, "Epilogue." It told of the bi-annual meeting of a group of friends called the T-girls, and the missing friend that would no longer be there. Judy was also advised to continue with the story.

Sandra Nantais read her five stanza, cascade poem, called, "Ode to the Tee." The very cute poem told of the wonderful merits of the tee shirt.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 P.M.


Respectfully submitted:
Sharon Buckman