Returning to the Flock:
Attending the League's Winter Program

By Rich Graham

I have not attended any LVW events in the past ten years (due to health issues) and I just wanted to share my thoughts on attending our annual Winter conference this past weekend.

First, I am always amazed at the amount of positive energy bursting out of our meeting room.  Our passion for writing is almost tangible.  I just sit there basking in delight and awe as I hear the stories of guest speakers and/or talk with writers around me.

Second, it always strikes me that the people I meet at these conferences are so-called “normal” people living ordinary lives, wrestling with the various curve balls life throws our way.  It always makes me feel like I am part of the “tribe”.  (For example, I found myself eating lunch with Connie Johnson Hambley, guest speaker, and found out we went to college in the same town!)

I have been a member of the League since 1992, and the third thing I noticed was that I am now of a certain age to be considered one of the (ahem) “elders”.  That came as quite a shock because even though I have only had a couple of articles published, I realized the younger writers are now looking up to ME for advice/feedback.

Lastly, I have declared this my “Year of Gratitude” and just wanted to express my thanks to Bobbi Jo and all the rest of League Team for all they do to make these conferences happen.  Thank you! A native New Yorker, Rich has lived in Burlington since 1991. During the day he works with people with disabilities and at night is a karaoke singer. He has just finished writing his memoirs about his six year experience living at the Dandelion Commune in the late 1970's.

 

A native New Yorker, Rich has lived in Burlington since 1991. During the day he works with people with disabilities and at night is a karaoke singer. He has just finished writing his memoirs about his six year experience living at the Dandelion Commune in the late 1970's."