2012, a Brand New Year

Lost State Writers Guild began the New Year with a very good turnout for the January meeting in Kingsport. Several new members joined the Guild and the group enjoyed readings from five talented writer/members.

The next LSWG meeting is scheduled for February 2, 2012, at Golden Corral restaurant in Johnson City. Long time member, Civil War writer and re-enactor, Stan Grocki, will have the program. Reminder, if there is a possiblity that weather has caused a cancellation, always call the restaurant.

Stan's extensive knowledge of Civil War history fuels most of his writing. But a very interesting account of his experiences in the Navy during World War II aboard the aircraft carrier USS Coral Sea, later renamed the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt, was included in Lost State Voices II. Some may not know (I didn't) that post cards were issued which had the cancellation postmark of ships from which they were sent. Below are pictures of the Coral Sea/FDR, now retired, and a couple of her postcard 'covers'.

Friend to local writers - Bubba's Book Swap

Billy Crawford, co-owner of Bubba's Book Swap wants to work with local authors to increase visibility for their books and his shop. He has a display of local authors' books at the front of his store. In addition Billy has offered to talk about becoming a point of sale for local authors so their books may be ordered and shipped through his e-commerce account, minus a percentage for his expenses. Email Billy Crawford, or call and talk to him. Billy has been a great friend to regional writers this year. In May he provided tents and tables for twenty or so writers to participate in his Meet the Author(s) tent event at the "Racks by the Tracks" festival in Kingsport. And in November he provided, again free of charge, space at the Christmas Connection at Kingsport's Civic Auditorium. Any time you're in Kingsport, drop in and thank Billy for all his help.

Blast from the Past

Who remembers Nada's memorable visual aid?