Fundraiser? More like FUNraiser. Huge success. (Sentence fragments.)
Who would have thought that zombies, vampires, Sylvia Plath, and
Blackbeard could be so enthusiastic about providing students with free
writing workshops and tutoring? They seemed pretty enthusiastic about the
artichoke dip, too.
Congratulations to Maggie, who captivated the impressive audience with her
short story, “Bicycle Girl.” I look forward to the day when I place her
book on my shelf between Norman Mailer and Herman Melville. Andrew’s
delivery of his poetry followed. It is easy to tell those artists who
have a wealthy combination of talent and skill, and Andrew undoubtedly
falls into this category. I particularly liked “Bubble Boy.”
Elizabeth Kostova, man. She puts so much thought behind her words.
Seeing her read part of “The Historian,” dressed as a vampire complete
with blood and veil, was an experience I am unlikely to forget. She has a
fantastic sense of humor to boot.
Julie Orringer, man. I was fortunate enough to get to know her a little
bit. She is charming, funny, and warm. Her reading of her story,
“Flores,” though, revealed a capability of darkness. At one point, I
wanted to yell out, “Not the dog!” The story was creepy, thoughtful, and
hilarious at the same time.
I was slightly worried that having all that talent on one stage would
create a vortex and open a portal to an unknown realm. It probably would
have been pretty cool, but the fundraiser was excitement enough for me.
Thanks to everybody who got involved. 826michigan volunteers are like
Maverick and Goose in Top Gun, only not so reckless. They are the best of
the best of the best, and we couldn’t have pulled off the fundraiser, or
anything else, without their help. Our donors, guests, and supporters
helped make Saturday so successful. Thanks again.