On Saturday, September 22nd, 2012 the Stormy Petrels of BC flocked together to celebrate a milestone. 25 years as a Sherlockian Society.
Because of a Bootmakers of Toronto meeting, the idea for a group out West was hatched.
We began our day with light refreshments, a welcome speech by President Fran and a brief history of the Petrels given by Len.
We proceeded to take part in a variety of activities which included billiards with ‘Thurston’ (Dr. Watson only played billiards with Thurston. DANC); We golfed with Arthur Conan Doyle at Hindhead; we an exercise in observation; and tested our knowledge of the “canon’ by trying to identify the Sidney Paget drawings.
Throughout the day, participants were welcomed to sign the guest book, see our photo wall depicting the activities of the Petrels over the past 25 years, and to browse through the photo albums.
We were treated to a lovely lunch prepared by Serafine, Orilea and Elsa (with thanks to Brian for the tea and coffee)
The group was entertained with two radio plays performed by the ‘Petrel Players’ (Brian as Sherlock Holmes, Len as Dr. Watson, Orilea as narrator, Serafine as visitor, Sheldon as Paradol with yours truly in charge of sound effects)
Brian treated us to a talk on telegrams and proceeded to read several telegrams he had received congratulating the Petrels on their great achievement.
After several door prizes were awarded and prizes for the activities were bestowed upon the high scorers, a special presentation ( a personally-inscribed silver card box) was given to Len Haffenden as editor of our “Petrel Flyer” for the past 20 years. This publication of the Stormy Petrels, in my opinion, rivals any other within the Sherlockian world. He has done a marvelous job of collecting articles, reviews, and much more from members. His enthusiasm and knowledge know no bounds.
After three rounds of “Sherlocko”, it was time to close the day. Fran and Len read the classic poem by Vincent Starrett (“221b”)
Fun and fellowship with friends old and new.
Ten Petrels met at The Diner on West 10th where Stella and her staff had prepared traditional English Roast Beef and Yorkshire Pudding dinners.
Thank you everyone who supported us. Thank you to: the Anniversary Committee (see Petrel Players); to Miss604 (Rebecca Bollwitt) who has been a long-time supporter and honorary Petrel since 1992; to Brian for the use of his lounge.
If you have not already done so, please join us for future meetings and events. What will the future hold?
The Stormy Petrels of BC 