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(Continuedfrom page 3) A small sample of other books in the Library on these topics includes: Iraq, the contemporary state by Tim Niblock. Lawrence of Arabia: a biographical enquiry by Richard Aldington. Illusions of Triumph: Arab View of the Gulf War by Mohamed Heikal. The Gulf conflict, 1990-1991: diplomacy and war in the new world order by Lawrence Freedman and Ef raim Karsh. Saddam Hussein: a political biography by Ef raim Karsh and Inari Rautsi. The Ottoman Centuries: the rise and fall of the Turkish Empire by Patrick Balfour Kinross. Or go to the shelves in the 956 area and browse for a variety of viewpoints and presentations of the history of the region. AUTHORS VISIT Edda Davis, Irene Esson and Grace Kravac were the Friends hosts at the 3rd March 2003 Author visit of Victoria Brooks. BOOK LAUNCH Sunday March 30th was the book launch reception for Shirley Baker-Thomas. I t was a great success, with over 60 people in attendance and was hosted and sponsored by the Friends of the Library. The room was alive with music and adorned with orchid plants. We served sweets, canapes, tea and coffee and of course our ever popular punch. Thanks to Edda Davis, Irene Esson and Sophia Weremchuk for being such great hosts. All the hard work was very much appreciated by Shirley and her family. Friends hosting were given a beautiful orchid and had their picture taken for the family album. I t was indeed a delightful Sunday afternoon. We would like to thank Pam Douglas of the Adult Department, who has that special touch when it comes to setting up the room so the mood for the event is just right. ART RECEPTIONS On the 7th March, 2003, the Library hosted an In Memoriam Reception for Peggy Smith. 94 guests attended the showing of Peggy's art which was combined with a fund raiser for the ALS Society of B.C. There was a Silent Auction of two of the paintings. Posters were given to those who made a $25.00 donation to ALS. I t was a very successful reception and Friends Lillian Chow, Irene Esson, Grace Kravac and Kim Vogt were the hosts. The next meeting of The Friends will be on Wednesday April 23rd 2003 12 noon to 2 p.m. Bring your lunch tea & coffee provided in the Library's Peter J. Peters Room Editor - Mary Holland Printing & Mailing Natalie Logan Rosalie Elliott Circulation & Proof Reader Maureen Eagle Contributing Writers Sophia Weremchuk Mary Holland Ted Hill