Author Daniel Wallace (center) with OCLC board members Steven Petrow and Jeff Polish.
Despite wintry weather conditions, supporters of the Orange County Literacy Council gathered Sunday night for an intimate reception at the home of UNC President Tom Ross and his wife, Susan, to kick off the fifth annual Writers for Readers fundraiser.
Gala attendees had the chance to mingle with acclaimed authors including Daniel Wallace (Big Fish; Mr. Sebastian and the Negro Magician) and Lee Smith (Mrs. Darcy and the Blue-Eyed Stranger), along with this year's four featured writers: Robert Goolrick (A Reliable Wife; Heading Out to Wonderful); Marisa de los Santos (Belong to Me; Love Walked In); Natasha Trethewey (Domestic Work; Native Guard); and Kevin Wilson (The Family Fang). The Catering Company of Chapel Hill catered the reception and Glasshalfull provided wine.
Then today from 11am-1pm, the authors read excerpts from their current works and spoke about the importance of promoting literacy at a luncheon held at The Carolina Inn. Wallace was the event's emcee while Smith acted as honorary chair. After lunch, guests had the opportunity to puchase books by the authors and have them signed.
Both the gala and the luncheon benefited the OCLC, which provides instruction in reading, writing, math, computer skills and GED prepareation to help adults reach their education, employment and life goals.
Check out our slideshow of photos from both fundraising events.
