The 12th Literacy Matters Luncheon took place on Feb. 22.
By
Amelia Hanks
| 1:01 p.m. February 22, 2019
Sarasota
Neighbors
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People who are especially passionate about teaching literacy congregated at Michael's on East on Feb. 22 to celebrate the 12th Literacy Matters Luncheon hosted by the Literacy Council of Sarasota. Over 100 people came out to support the organization.
The Literacy Council of Sarasota uses this event to award those who have supported local literacy efforts. This year, the James E. Duffy Friend of Literacy Award was given to Children First. The Volunteer of the Year Award was given to Roger Eales, who said he's one of five people in the area that speak Congolese, and one of them is a young girl currently educated Literacy Council of Sarasota.
Robert Shindler, author of "Hot Dogs and Hamburgers: Unlocking Life's Potential by Inspiring Literacy at Any Age," was the guest speaker for the event.
Literacy Council of Sarasota Board President Vincente Medine with LCS Executive Director Tom Melville
Jane Zepf, Larry Mercker and Karin Griffith
Board member Jane Govoni, Leo Govoni and board member Carol Darling
The orchids, which served as the centerpiece for the tables, were for sale for a $30 donation.
The pink napkins matched the pink accent colors around the room.
Diana Harrington played the piano as guests entered the luncheon.
Beverly and Michael Budin
Luncheon Planning Committee member Susan Bergstrom with Andrew Shindler and Rob Shindler, the guest speaker of the night.
Mimi Bourven and John Greco
Carol Clarke and Ron DiPillo
Pat and Ken Wilson
Board members Nada Vanous and Linda Jones
Mary Lou Johnson, Mary Piotrowski and Penny Thomas
Susan Ritchey and Elizabeth Smith
Bob Kenel and Demetrio Garcia
Deborah Chapman, Barbara Richards and Judy Gee
James Duffy, the honorary chair of the event, spoke a few words of why it's important for everyone to be literate.
Vincente Medina awards Children First representative Jack Baker with the James E. Duffy Friend of Literacy Award.
Vincente Medina awards Roger Eales with the Volunteer of the Year award.
