The Alpha Study Social Committee arranged for our first September Alpha meeting to be held at Serendipity by Deb. President Joan Raum opened the meeting with a timely verse, Welcome Fall (Internet source). Nineteen members responded to roll by telling stories about the Teapots, Teacups, or Tea-related items they brought. The largest was Avriel’s Tea/Coffee pot. Many of the Teapots were either treasured family Teapots or wedding gifts. The smallest items were Pauline’s blooming tea bags and Pat C’s crocheted teacups. Overall, our Tea articles created a beautiful display on our tables. The Secretary’s and Treasurer’s reports were read and accepted. Old Business: Historian Karen reviewed last years’ meetings, month-by-month; reminded us of projects and gifts; and the revisited the major change in our overall schedule (earlier beginnings, fewer in wintry months). New Business: With appreciation to Avriel for the hard work of publishing our program booklets, the group reviewed them and offered comments that resulted in combining Farewell and Remembrance Committee duties. The Social Committee member Mary shared four creative verses she has written, to the delight of her audience. They included poems written between 2006 and 2010. The themes were mostly Seasonal, specifically “Autumn Landscape,” “Cross Roads,” and “White Mums.” Finally, “Bad Hair Day” brought many chuckles because most members were able to related to similar frustrations. Joan concluded the meeting with timely thoughts from Winston Churchill and Abraham Lincoln about the importance of being responsible citizens who choose/vote wisely or being ignorant/absent people who pay very “uncomfortable” consequences. The next meeting on September 22 will be at Karen’s home, with Veta presenting her book review. Finally, Social Committee member Jean took “orders” for beverages to accompany the beautiful Cupcakes by Deb and delightful Dove chocolates.