The October luncheon was kicked off by President Amy Creamer sharing a video that highlighted our support of Arts programs at Johns and Wadmalaw Island schools.
There was a very well received recent event at St. John’s High School in coordination with Charleston Jazz that featured Quiana Parler introducing the music of her band Ranky Tanky to the students. The music of Ranky Tanky has won two Grammys and has its roots in the Low Country, combining Gullah, blues, jazz, and gospel themes.
Featured speakers from the upcoming Charleston Literary Festival were Executive Director Sarah Moriarty and Development Director Suzanne Pollak. The Festival will be held November 3-12, with 34 events in the 10 days. Started in 2017, this event presents outstanding speakers, many of whom are Pulitzer, Booker, and Nobel award recipients. The programs are in intimate settings which highlight the theme this year: Embrace the Conversation. This year also features a Young Writers Award, open to 10-12 grade students in Charleston County. There will be three awards in two categories, Short Story and Personal Essay. Entries are judged on originality, skill, and the emergence of a personal voice. There is a cash prize, publication on the Festival website, and an opportunity for the writers to read their work at the Festival. This ties in beautifully with the Arts, etc. goal of fostering literary excellence in the schools of Johns and Wadmalaw Islands.