UPDATE: The 25th Annual Solano County Authors Luncheon took place Sunday, marking a significant milestone in the county’s commitment to promoting literacy. The event attracted a vibrant crowd of authors, community leaders, and readers, all uniting to support essential literacy programs that impact lives across Solano County.
Guests enjoyed sparkling mimosas and a catered lunch while browsing auction tables, shopping for books, and meeting authors for personal signings. Hosted by the Solano Library Foundation, this premier event serves as a crucial fundraiser for literacy initiatives affecting individuals of all ages.
Ravi Shakar, the Foundation Board President, welcomed attendees and emphasized the event’s importance in sustaining literacy programs. “We truly appreciate your participation in this event,” Shakar stated. “Our work and success depend on your generosity and support.”
The keynote speaker, Mychal Threets, a former Solano County librarian and current host of the rebooted Reading Rainbow digital series, captivated the audience with an emotional address. Threets, who recently released a picture book titled I’m So Happy You’re Here: A Celebration of Library Joy, read aloud, reminding everyone that “The library is for you — a place you will always belong.”
In a poignant moment, Threets revealed his personal struggles with depression, sharing that just two years ago, he was on the brink of suicide. “I was dying two years ago,” he confessed to a hushed audience. “I was in a dark place and didn’t want to be alive. I am happy to be alive — and to be here with you.” His message of resilience received a standing ovation, as he urged continued support for libraries and literacy programs, calling them “lifelines” for the community.
The luncheon also featured Dr. Jeff Gaborko, a pediatrician with Kaiser Permanente, who highlighted the critical role of reading in early childhood development. Gaborko encouraged parents to read with their children, stating, “One of the most consistent traits among healthy adults is having a high school diploma. Literacy is key to that success — and it starts with reading together at home.”
Several local authors showcased their works, including:
– Dr. Genea S. Brice, Vallejo’s first Poet Laureate
– Dr. June Gillam, an award-winning crime fiction writer
– Dr. Gary Matsumura, whose memoir Adventures in Obstetrics offers a humorous look at his medical career
The event concluded with Shakar reinforcing the necessity of supporting literacy programs, stating their profound impact on both children and adults in Solano County. “This work is especially important now more than ever,” he emphasized.
As the community celebrates this milestone, the urgent call for support rings clear: fostering literacy is essential for the growth and well-being of future generations.
