FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Karen Scholz, Library Development Specialist, 239.461.2914, email kscholz@leegov.com

CELEBRATION OF AUTHORS & ART

FORT MYERS, Fla., January 6, 2004 - For Immediate Release 

            FORT MYERS, Fla., January 6, 2004 – More than 40 regional authors and artists will sign and sell their books and art at the first Celebration of Authors and Art from 4 to 8 p.m. on Friday, January 23, 2004. The event will be held at the historic Collier Arcade, 1520 Broadway, downtown Fort Myers. The event continues at Arts for ACT, 2265 First Street from 7 to 10 p.m. with the opening reception of artist Judy Smith.

        Authors will offer their books for sale and talk to book lovers while artists display their works of art for sale. The event is sponsored by the Foundation for the Lee County Library System, in partnership with Heritage Bookstore & More, Lee County Library System, Downtown Fort Myers Redevelopment Corporation, Downtown Management Association and Arts for Act.

        Light refreshments will be served and drinks will be available for purchase. A $5 donation which includes a chance to win autographed books and other gift items is requested. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Lee County Reading Festival, which will be held on March 13, 2004 in Centennial Park, downtown Fort Myers.

        In conjunction with this event, a writing workshop will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2004, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., at Bara Bread in the Collier Arcade. The workshop will be led by Prudy Taylor Board, author of "101 Tips on Writing and Selling Your First Novel." Space is limited and a $15 registration fee is required.

        Join us as we showcase regional authors and artists and celebrate the joy of reading and the beauty of art. For more information, call 542-0363.

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