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The 8th Annual Gulf Coast Writers' Conference Michael Lister, that spiritual dynamo and founder of Pottersville Press, tossed me this assignment casually, like a plum from across the table. “And Bette, you can write a brief commentary on the Annual Gulf Coast Writers' and Storytellers’ Conference.” Man. He might just as well have asked that I describe cobalt or my grandson’s first belly laugh. I enjoy a challenge as well as the next woman, but trying to capture such enthusiasm, such dignity and diversity of purpose, commitment and camaraderie is surely beyond my limited skill. The annual Gulf Coast Writers' and Storytellers’ Conference is held every September for working writers, educators, the reading public, and to some who just come because they love us. Story is the guest of honor, and she comes dressed in chartreuse silk, gaudy with diamonds. To ensure that she is properly feted, only the most deserving of her statewide servants are invited to present on her behalf. Each session is inspired, well structured, and received by eager and responsive celebrants, their zeal for information snapping in the September air. There is an electricity, a strumming of excitement that resonates in conversation and in the faces of those greedy for information about Story. Story stirs us on this day, places her hand on each of our shoulders, and admonishes “Don’t you dare forget me. I’m your autobiography.” Special thanks are due our patrons, Bay Bank and Trust Company, The Carousel, and The Natural Light, as well as to tireless volunteers, our creative advertisers, all presenters, and to each celebrant. Michael and his Board of Directors bend at collective waists, palms together and fingertips to brows, whispering, “Thank you. Thank you all.” See there? I can’t describe cobalt, either - and my grandson’s first belly laugh defies even the skill of Homer.
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