Not only are they famous for putting words on paper, but their ability to entertain from the dais was a delight to witness as well. Nationally renowned authors William Ken Krueger, Joanna Scott, Gail Sheehy, Matthew Thomas and Troy Cummings thoroughly wowed the audience at the Tenth Annual Guilded Leaf Book and Author Luncheon. It is doubtful that anyone in the room could have asked for a better event, but also unlikely they realize how much effort so many volunteers put in to making it a success.
Julie Shadinger is Guild President and gives high marks to everybody who played a role in the luncheon.
She said, “I am proud of everyone who gave so much of their time and energy to make the day a success. This is the first year the Guild took over total responsibility for planning and executing the luncheon. It was a big undertaking.”
Ginny Purvis served as chairwoman for the event. Shadinger reeled off numerous compliments including being impressed how Purvis reinforced the team members. She said, “She is spunky and upbeat with a generous heart. A great leader.”
Carmel’s very own J. Andy Murphy served as Moderator for the program which was held at the Ritz Charles. Anne Poindexter, president of the Carmel Library Foundation Board, is the one who challenged the Guild to take over the luncheon planning and by all reports, she was pleased.
Michelle Shadrick and Dale Theising put together a committee to choose the authors. They chose the books and thus the authors who would ultimately make the trip to Carmel. There was also a committee chaired by Ann Hoover and Debra Schmitz. Their sole purpose was to study in detail over the summer, each of the books. Then, they were prepared to answer questions and provide recommendations based on the book lovers personal taste when choosing a title to buy during the luncheon.
More than 500 people attended and it felt like it took almost as many to put the event together. The key committee volunteers are Rich and Lauren Taylor: Banking & Finance, Sue Marley: Social Media Guru, JoDee Curtis: Raffle Aficionado, Christine Walsh: Teen Writing Contest: Sharon Fera: Menu/favors/décor, Marty Habing: Program and Ads: Sherry McVey: Author Transportation, Linda Kennen, Joyce Winner, Kathy Peterson: Silent Auction, Betsey Russell: Corporate Sponsorships and Mary Kay Snyder: Night Before Dinner.
Next year’s date is Oct. 22, 2015 and I highly recommend you don’t miss it.
