41st Annual Local Authors Exhibit - January 27, 2007 [Return]

The San Diego Library system honors local authors once a year and their works published in the last year by placing a copy of the book(s) in a glass case in a prominent location in the downtown library. I received a letter from a friend at my local library in Penasquetos, telling me about the opportunity. I can't thank Maria Biondo enough for making me aware of this occasion.

I arrived at the library and stepped into the dark streets of San Diego, not knowing what to expect. Did I overdress? What is this all about, anyway? I entered a room full of people pressed against glass cabinets, staring into them like they contained rare mummified remains of yet another Pharaoh King. Taking a quick scan of the huge room, I realized there were glass cases everywhere, proudly displaying the books of San Diego's local authors, including my own. Such pride swept through me. I was a little overwhelmed by the size of the group. My wife and daughter were with me to take advantage of whatever photo-op this night might provide, never expecting for it to be such a large gathering. Hors d'oeuvres and drinks were provided and the night's activities began with a check-in and badging.

I was pleasantly surprised to see several of my fellow authors from Infinity Publishing being honored at the event as well. I must have done something right in picking this publishing company. The best-of-the-best was one Jerome Rothenberg, a poet that has lived here in San Diego for many years .

Once Mr. Rothenberg was honored, they read a list of all the authors gathered for the night. The library staff presented us with a medal as they read our names and the books published in 2006. I was thrilled at the unexpected level of appreciation for local authors. It was a wonderful and motivating experience. Thanks San Diego.

San Diego Main Library	"Orphan Records" & "A Dark and Stormy Knight"	Receiving the Medal