The Shakespeare Round Table culminated its 105th year with a Spring Banquet April 26 in the Georgian Room
of the Heritage Center in Bowling Green.
All 20 members of the Round Table were present in celebration of the successful year of study that
focused on plays Henry VIII and Twelfth Night. President Norma Stickler welcomed all members and their
guests.
Special guests were associate members Pat Mayeux and Connie Varney and her husband, Glenn.
Fran Bruns offered an invocation and Stickler thanked the Heritage staff, Program Chairperson Kathy East,
all current officers, and all members who wrote papers and hosted meetings. She also recognized the
officers for the next year: President, Kathy East; vice president, Diane Vogtsberger; secretary, Helene
Weinberger; and treasurer, Jeannie Genson.
Stickler made all smile as she shared phrases and sayings that originated with Shakespeare and have
become common expressions. She noted that some people might be surprised to know that they are quoting
Shakespeare when they use such expressions.
Stickler recognized member Elaine Paulette for her years of service to the Wood County District Public
Library. The Round Table and the library have had a strong partnership during both their histories.
The transfer of office to President East occurred and East introduced Dr. Jo Beth Gonzales and her
Bowling Green High School drama students who shared ways they have approached Shakespeare study in the
classroom and on stage. The first method was a choral reading from Macbeth, second was a discussion of
their approach to Twelfth Night, using understudies, and third a puppet show of King Lear. The dramatic
enthusiasm of Ashley Brickner, Ian Charland, Jessica Cook, Jessica Garvey-Smith, Jennifer Maynard,
Allison Needels, Nick Shetzer, and Summit Star was appreciated by all.