One of Alabama's oldest writers groups will close its 60th year with a celebratory gathering that reflects the creative tradition it has spent decades building along the Gulf Coast.

The Pensters, founded in 1965 by writer Frances Durham, will celebrate its anniversary during its December meeting at the Fairhope Public Library on Saturday, Dec. 13 from 10 a.m. to noon. The group, centered in Fairhope, has long served Baldwin and Mobile counties as a hub for writers seeking community and guidance across every genre, form poetry to journalism to fiction according to a news release.

Over the years, Pensters members have included award-winning authors and poets, including a former Alabama Poet Laureate. The organization's longevity and influence stand out in a region known for literary heritage.

"I am honored to serve as President of this outstanding group of local writers from all over Baldwin and Mobile counties," Rosanne Gulisano, current Pensters president, said in the release. "This area is replete with writers of all genres, rivaling the official Alabama's Literary Capital, Monroeville. I can state with certainty we have more active writers here, as well a full complement of great authors in past decades. To think that Pensters has been in place for much of that heritage is significant. Our place in the literary community here is something to be proud of."

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The group's impact was formally acknowledged in April when Fairhope Mayor Sherry Sullivan issued a proclamation recognizing The Pensters for its role in strengthening the region's literary culture. The proclamation noted, "I commend this group for continuing to meet, discuss and review writing styles/techniques and the exquisite art of the written word."

For many members, the organization offers both mentorship and camaraderie.

"It's an honor be part of a writing community where you can meet other writers, hear great speakers on teh craft of writing and enter a monthly writing contest," said Alan Samry, immediate past president and a member since 2007. "Whether you are dabbling in poetry for the first time in your 70s or trying to polish a novel in your 20s, you will be welcomed and encouraged at Pensters."

The Pensters meet the second Saturday of each month from September through May at 10 a.m. at the Fairhope Public Library. Meetings feature networking, updates on member accomplishments, readings by winners of the group's monthly prose and poetry contests and guest speakers who address topics in writing, editing and publishing. Meetings are free and open to the public. Annual membership is $30.

The December meeting will serve as the capstone to the anniversary year. The celebration will include prose and poetry readings, a birthday cake and light refreshments. Attendance is free and open to all who want to learn more about the organization or support local writers.

More information is available at www.pensterswritinggroup.com.

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