Here is an excerpt from my poetry group's September newsletter. That would be the River Junction Poets September Newsletter of course, edited by none other than the very capable and ever neighborly Patricia McN-.

NOTES ON THE BIRTHDAY READINGS:
The absolute success of the birthday readings has surprised and delighted all of us. Barnes & Noble continues to set up a table of books by scheduled poets and a reservation sign on the corner table (by the travel section, S.E. corner). Humor was a big draw with 25 persons out for the poetry of Ogden Nash, and 21 for the reading of Dorothy Parker--even though both poets’ poetry is basically out of print. At least hard to find even in the libraries. Ten gathered for the reading of Rita Dove, the first black woman and youngest poet to be Poet Laureate of the U.S. We began to feel we knew Rita, and like one might say of a distant friend, Colleen remarked, “I wonder what Rita Dove is doing on her birthday tonight?” This prompted the buying of a birthday card to send her, signed by all. Each reading has drawn at least one new person. Some return, others had the single interest. Part of the charm of these gatherings is the casualness. Join us for any one or all of the evenings. No advance preparation is needed, you do not have to have a book (though if you have one bring it). Books are available to use there. It is a very informal evening. Come when you choose. No duty, no obligation, no cost --unless, of course, you get hooked on a poet and decide to buy a book.

Voting for November birthday poets was done at the August meeting. If you were not there you will find the November birthday poets list enclosed. Underline your choices. We settle on the four or five poets with the most votes, Bring to the September meeting, or mail to Pat McN-. Tally will be made after the September 28th meeting.