Ruth Moose, a long-time member of the North Carolina Writers Conference, was honored recently when the group met at the Little River Golf & Resort located in Carthage.

Moose, the author of 10 books, is a former chair of the conference.

Susan Myers, the 2009 chair, welcomed members and guests to the event which marked the organization's 60th anniversary.

The conference, noted for its fun-filled sessions, featured a Friday evening reading and book signing by Moose who introduced her latest book of poetry, "The Librarian and Other Poems," published by Main Street Rag. Autographed broadsides of her poem, "Laundry," were made available to those attending the event.

Moose, a native of Stanley County, is renowned for her versatility.

A lover of words, reading and writing, she has been a columnist, literary editor, and a reference librarian. She has written ad copy, articles for trade journals and public relations pieces.

At the same time, she was writing and publishing stories and poetry.

Referring to it as "a tithe" to her profession, Moose has done hundreds of book reviews, many of which have appeared on the book page of The Pilot.

Sally Logan, vice-chair, formerly of Moore County, opened the program at the Saturday evening banquet by acknowledging written tributes from some of the state's most well-known writers, Mignon Ballard, Joseph Bathanti, Doris Betts, Marianne Gingher and Dannye Romine Powell.

Emcee Joy Acey, of Chapel Hill, introduced fellow writers, Sally Buckner, Bland Simpson, John York and Valerie Yow, who shared personal accounts of their long-standing personal and professional friendship with the honoree.

Moose credited her husband, Talmadge, who died in 2003, with many of her successes. Sharing the same versatility, his career included a career in graphics, teaching at a community college, painting, exhibiting and selling fine art and portraits.

A popular choice for this year's recognition, Moose is currently teaching creative writing at UNC Chapel Hill.

And, after 12 fruitful and rewarding years, she enthusiastically adds that, from her first day on campus, she felt it was the place she belonged.

Contact Southern Pines writer Lois Holt at lholt79@nc.rr.com.