A Note from our President:
“To create is to look at everything with a fresh eye, to discover a world where every detail has a voice.”
— Georgia O’Keeffe
Our Mission: Greenwich Pen Women, a branch of the National League of American Pen Women is a non-profit organization of women artists, writers, and musicians. We offer mutual support and exchange of ideas to encourage and inspire excellence in original creative work.
July 2026, President’s Letter
Happy Fourth of July week! As we head into the holiday weekend, I hope you all find time for deep rest, celebration with family and friends, and a little space to slow down and soak in the beauty of early summer.
Over the last few weeks, I have found myself reflecting deeply on our shared journey of connecting and cultivating—two intentions that are truly coming to life across our sisterhood.
Recently, I had the honor of being a guest speaker at an event hosted by our own talented Lisa D’Amico. It was a wonderful afternoon, but what made it unforgettable was looking out and seeing the familiar, smiling faces of our members. A massive thank you to Maria Friscia, Arabella Gandy, Doris Mady, Heather Sandifer and Debbie Silberberg for coming out to support Lisa and represent our branch so beautifully!
It was also the absolute perfect setting to welcome our newest member, Debbie Silberberg, who joined us at the art event! Debbie, we are so incredibly thrilled to have you in our circle.
The creative sharing continued at Andrea Petite’s monthly reading event at Norwalk Library where I had the privilege of doing a reading myself. It is always such a gift to share our words and artistry in community with one another.
Our regular gatherings have been filled with so much inspiration lately, and I want to extend a massive thank you to the brilliant women who keep them running smoothly:
- Thank you to Cathy Horn and Deb Weir for facilitating our Letters meeting.
- A huge thank you to Karen Heffner for leading our Art critique, and to Heidi Matonis for so graciously hosting us in her beautiful home!
The spirit of connection didn’t stop there. I’ve been blessed with some wonderful, intimate time spent sharing laughs and ideas over lunch. First, with the wonderful Cathy Horn one day, Barbara Ehrentrau another, and then a beautiful afternoon in Tarrytown joining Doris Mady, Lisa D’Amico, and Arabella Gandy.
On my drive home from Tarrytown, my GPS took me on the most unexpected detour. I found myself winding along the water and onto gorgeous, quiet country roads. Looking at the water and the summer greenery, it hit me: this is what cultivating connection looks like. It’s taking the time to open our eyes to the beauty around us, slow down, and cherish the brilliant women in our circle.
Please join me in celebrating some major literary milestones within our branch:
- Cathy Horn has officially published her new book of poems through the NLAPW! She generously gifted me a copy during our lunch, and the work is absolutely beautiful. Cathy also just had a fantastic interview feature at the Perrot Library—congratulations, Cathy!
- Susan Barash has exciting news to celebrate—congratulations to Susan on the release of her wonderful new book!
- Barbara Ehrentrau has exciting news as well—her next book is officially on its way to being published! We are so proud of you, Barbara, and cannot wait to celebrate your official release day.
“When we support an individual member’s journey, we strengthen the foundation of our entire community.”
To keep this momentum moving forward, we need to continue cultivating the tools that help us share our gifts with the world. Right after the holiday fireworks clear, I am thrilled to invite you to a very special, practical learning opportunity led by two of our own expert members.
Social Media Webinar: An Instructional Two-Part Training
- Led by: Arabela Gandy and Lisa D’Amico
- When: Tuesday, July 7th and Tuesday, July 14th
- Time: 7:00 PM
- Where: Zoom (Link and flyer details on our website’s Member News page).
In this digital age, staying connected means knowing how to navigate these platforms with confidence. Who better to guide us than two of our own? Please make sure to block out these Tuesday evenings for an empowering, supportive session.
Let’s keep looking for ways to champion one another this summer—whether by sharing a meal, attending an event, or learning a new skill together. Have a wonderful, safe, and inspired Fourth of July!
Onward and upward,
Adrienne Reedy
President, Greenwich Pen Women
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Be sure to look for new Art member, Debbie Silberberg in this month’s Spotlight.
While it’s always lovely to meet a new Pen Woman, you don’t have to be a new member to be in the Spotlight. If you attend our events and people are hard-pressed to recognize you, perhaps it’s time to appear in the Spotlight! As we all grow and it could be fun to hear what new paths you are pursuing.
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