On Sep 24, 2025, MWSA hosted a Write Your Story Class at the Westin Crown Center Hotel, Kansas City, MO. The class ran from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM with an hour set aside for lunch. The instructors were Ruth Crocker, Jack London, Jim Tritten, and Bob Doerr. Only 5 students were present, four being MWSA members who had never attended a WYS class before.
An attendance list was taken, and an information sheet about MWSA was provided to all the students. Ruth Crocker presented a class on writing memoirs. Jim Tritten's lesson covered story arc. Jack London covered great openings, and Bob Doerr presented a lesson on point of view and dialogue.
The students appeared to have enjoyed the overall class. All but one completed a class critique form, and all the forms gave all categories the highest rating. I am unaware of any negative feedback. MWSA hosted a pizza lunch in the adjacent food court.
My only negative comment is the lack of attendance by local veterans and family members. We’ll need to get a better jump on this next year.
John Cathcart and Valerie Ormond's presence during the class was appreciated by all.
Overall, other than the lack of attendance, I'd grade this WYS class as a success. The members who attended are now familiar with the class, and if they’re interested, they are better qualified to teach in a future class.
- Bob Doerr