Bensonista Brunch  New York City, March 3, 2001

ITEM:   New York woman invites total strangers into her home, people she met on the internet.  Nothing untoward happened.  In fact, guests interviewed following the event, reported they felt very welcome and at home.  The hostess, known in this group as Emmeline, served great food and great drink while Caro 'Sposo set up great music as a backdrop to the festivities.  Two very well-mannered young people assisted in the preparation of food and provided welcoming wall decor in the hallway.  The guests, also known as Bensonistas, followers of a long-dead author by the name of Edward Frederic Benson, agreed they were ready and willing to do it all again, anytime.  These brunch guests are identified in photos below.

MENU:   Mimosas           and Bloody Mary's       Assorted bagels       Salmon and cream cheese,           red onion and tomato       Salad with grilled chicken       Stuffed mushroom caps       Various cheeses and crackers;            lemon curd, apple cider jelly,           and tangerine-marmalade-butter       Coffee

The advance guard, frequent lunchers, arrive at the brunch location:  Nunky Cartright, publisher;  Gus Bosanquet, columnist;  Podimu;  and Giardeniera.

Emmeline welcomes La Giardeniera.

Giardeniera and Marcia, the Duchess of Whitby, discussing Marcia's keyboarding habits and style.

Podimu and Caro 'Sposo, discussing a little music.

Four more photos on page two...

Gus and Nunky, discussing the publishing and reporting business.

Susan Leg, authoress, discussing books with her publisher, Nunky Cartright.