Probus Club holds monthly meeting
The Probus Club of Central Aroostook held their May meeting on the 20th at NMCC. There were 24 members and one guest present. President Peggy Woodman turned the meeting over to the Program Director Mel Fitzherbert. Mel introduced the guest speaker, Mark Varnum, O.D., who grew up in Presque Isle and is now residing in Oakland. He still practices primary eye care and is now a published author as well.
Dr. Varnum spoke about his journey into the world of writing and the competitive field of the publishing world and the role that an agent, editor and publisher play before the book can even get published.
His book “The Hawk’s Cross,” is a historical mystery novel centered in Machias during the latter part of World War II. It is factual in that there was a German U-Boat offshore on the coast of Maine at that time and the story evolves around the characters and story that he created. He is currently waiting for his newest book, “The Pirateer,” to be released this fall. This book also is centered around the coast of Maine during the time of the Revolutionary War and the central character is Jeramiah O’Brian.
He spoke of the detailed research the author must do in order to ensure the accuracy of his writing. He did much of his research at the Maine State Library in Augusta. Dr. Varnum’s talk was very interesting and he read a short passage from his book that certainly peaked the interest of the audience to read the book, “The Hawk’s Cross”.
The author took questions from the group and was then presented with a certificate of appreciation from Mel Fitzherbert on behalf of Probus.
Peggy Woodman called the business meeting to order. The secretary and treasurer’s reports were read and approved. Pearl Carmichael read a poem entitled “Old Folks are Worth a Fortune.” Peggy asked for volunteers to serve on the Nominating Committee. Janet Snow, Gerry Gallagher and Karen Sweeney will bring nominees to the table.
With no further business, the meeting was adjourned.
The next meeting will be on Thursday, June 17. Mel left us guessing, as he has a mystery guest for a speaker.
