Branch News, Fall 2026
Santa Clara County Supports Pen Woman’s Art Show
A reception was hosted in May at the Milpitas Library in Milpitas, California, highlighting Santa Clara County Branch member Dorothy Atkins’ “One Love” paintings. Pen Women, family, and friends attended the reception to show their support for the show, which ran through June.
This body of work is a culmination of years of using painting for healing. Each image began with a quiet message of healing. Atkins has continued her commitment to changing the narrative through colors on her canvas. Her paintings are subtle but confident, invoking conversation. “One Love” shows off its charm and emphasizes simple kindness.
A second viewing of the show was in June with Atkins, Rolayne Edwards, Louise Webb, and Luanna Leisure. The group celebrated Atkins and her show, along with Webb’s 92nd birthday. Happy birthday, Louise!
Diablo-Alameda Welcomes New Member
By Winifred Thompson, Branch President
Artist Parivash Canani received her Certificate of Membership during the NorCal “Mingle” in July. A native of Iran, she is a business student at the University of California, Berkeley. She will begin serving as the branch secretary.
Our branch also looks forward to sponsoring Kaitlin Cruey, a lovely singer who performed at the NorCal event, as our next student member.
Far right, new member Parivash Canani receives her Certificate of Membership from Branch President Winifred Thompson. Right, future student member Kaitlin Cruey performs at the NorCal mingle.
Denver Showcases Its Authors at Community Event
It was a sunny, 90-degree day in Thornton, Colorado. Enthusiasm was soaring for our writers as they presented passersby with information about their books on display at a community craft fair.
Denise Gard is a storyteller at libraries and senior citizen care centers in Colorado and neighboring states. Her books included psychological fiction inspired by true life experiences.
Diane Chambers, vice president of the Denver Branch, is a professional sign language interpreter. She displayed books concerning her personal experiences helping hearingimpaired people and how she actively supported government laws to enhance their lives.
Linda Volin, president of the Denver Branch, was an educator for kindergarten through college. Her displayed books included topics of genealogy, writing, nature, music, and a fantasy in existing U.S. national park locations.
Marion Mike, resident at the craft fair location, displayed her books for young children. She helped encourage membership by proudly informing passersby about the great accomplishments of the Denver Branch.
Success was enjoyed by the participants in this event.
NorthCal Branches Mingle at Joint Event
Diablo/Alameda, Modesto, and Santa Clara County branches — three out of five NLAPW branches in Northern California — met in Hayward at the Sun Gallery Art Gallery for a relaxing day of food, entertainment, and socializing. The event was organized by Diablo/Alameda Branch President Winifred Thompson and NorCal President and Santa Clara County Outreach Chair Dorothy Atkins. Board members of the Sun Gallery were of great assistance to help make the day a success.
Kaitlin Cruey, future member, kept the audience entertained with her beautiful, professional singing. Thompson presented a certificate to new member Parivash Canani. Pen Women displayed and sold their artworks, and there was a surprise giveaway with some delightful gifts. Of course, the food was excellent. In every way, it was a lovely day to meet with new and old friends of the Northern California branches.