In recent months we have shared both reflections of past year’s memories and events, as well as our intention to continue pursuing our mission amid the challenges of this most unusual year. With the commitment and efforts of our Board, schools, authors, and the community and the use of technology, we’ve hosted 2 successful virtual events to date and have plans for more to come.
On February 24, AIBF partnered with Jayne Rose-Vallee and Literacy for Kids Director Heather Mertz for a virtual author event at Callahan and Wildlight Elementary Schools. In addition to distributing 400 signed books, Rose-Vallee read the book to the students in a virtual presentation, complete with a Question and Answer session. She also showed them the process by which she crafts her books and stated that she is currently working on a book about Florida waters. More about this experience can be found on our website.
“The virtual author visit was the window into the creative mind of the author. Students enjoyed listening to the story and hearing how the story was created from a little child just like them. Thank you for this amazing opportunity.”
~ Callahan Elementary Principal Melissa Johnson
On March 4, American Beach resident and local author, Marsha Dean Phelts, presented a well -attended live cooking demonstration via Zoom, sharing recipes and history of American Beach, based on her book, The American Beach Cookbook published in 2008. She was joined by Chef, Kathryn Kelly. You are welcome to watch the replay of the event on our website.
The American Beach Cookbook is available locally at The Book Loft.
We look forward to more upcoming virtual events this year. Here is a sneak peak of what’s coming up so you can Save the Dates:
April 14 at 6:30pm - 7:30pm Author Steve Berry Virtual Event
May 14 - AIBF Honorary Chair, author David Baldacci
May 14 - AIBF Short Story Contest and the AEL Family Foundation Scholarship awards ceremonies.
We invite you to visit our website, join our mailing list and follow us on Facebook to be notified of upcoming events and developments.
~ AIBF President, Larry Williams