Free Same Old Truths by Delora Dennis Page A

reactions, but the group was silent. So she went on. “But then I was told to add another 50% to cover gasoline and food. With twelve people that would come to around $125 a piece.”
    That’s a deal!
    Kay enthusiastically nodded.
    “Unfortunately, as of today, only four people have confirmed,” she said. There was a disapproving edge in her voice. “We have to send a deposit by the end of next week so unless we can get at least six more people to sign up, ASAP, I don’t know if it’s going to be worth it.”
    Kay did a quick calculation in her head. If she signed up, and nobody else did, it was going to be a $300 weekend. And while she didn’t mind spending the money, it was a little steep for being locked up in close quarters with four people she didn’t know…or worse…the gassy Delbert Shoemacher.
    In an effort to entice more sign-ups, Carol Ann took a brochure from her clipboard and asked Virginia to pass it around. But with the speed at which the pamphlet was traveling around the semi circle, one could assume interest was minimal.
    It finally reached Kay. She took one look at the cover picture of the long, sleek, Sapphire Moon docked at the marina just waiting to welcome the next group of weekend revelers, and she was overcome with the urge to jump up and scream, “What’s wrong with you people?” Instead, she just looked longingly at the pictures in the inner folds which showcased the luxurious style and comfort of the boat’s interior. She let out a sigh, imagining being lulled to sleep by the sound of gentle waves as they lapped up against the side of the boat while she relaxed in one of the six private staterooms. Was that a gas barbecue grill she spotted on the topside deck, next to a long line of lounge chairs?
    Virginia spoke up from her chair. “As some of you may know, one of the playoff games is being televised tonight. I’m assuming that’s the reason for our small turnout this evening. Carol Ann, do you think it would be worth it to contact every member with one last reminder and see if we can possibly get six more people to sign up?”
    “It might be,” Carol Ann answered, “but I’m very busy this week and I don’t think I’ll have time to do it” It was obvious Carol Ann was tiring of her role as planning committee chair.
    “How about your committee? Is there somebody who might be willing to help out?” Virginia asked, not ready to let this go.
    “Well, neither Phyllis or Alvin are here, and they weren’t all that helpful. Frankly, I wouldn’t be comfortable asking them to do this.”
    If there was any hope of keeping the weekend on the Sapphire Moon afloat, Kay was watching it quickly sail into the sunset. It seems no one’s heart was in it and Kay was totally baffled as to why.
    “I have to tell you Virginia, I think most people signed up for this group to meet someone they could go out with, one on one,” Carol Ann said. “I mean, who wants to go on a date with a group…especially a date that lasts three days?”
    “I understand, Carol Ann. But if you recall, there was a lot of support for changing things up from these “humdrum” monthly meetings and everyone seemed really excited about doing the houseboat thing.” She turned to the group and said, “Maybe we should put this up for a vote.”
    Long, lanky Lance spoke up. “That doesn’t seem fair with so many members absent. Maybe we should postpone a vote until next time.”
    “How’s that supposed to work?” Carol Ann sneered. “Boating season will be over before our next meeting. We’d be voting on a weekend for next summer.”
    “Well, I’m going to make an executive decision,” Virginia declared. “We need to finish what we started. Carol Ann, I’d like you to send one last email to everyone on the membership list.”
    “That’s a lot of emails, Virginia. I told you I don’t have time,” Carol Ann said.
    “No, that’s one email, mass-mailed to everyone on the membership list. If you stay