Recognition for the 2010 Tucson Festival of Books

Recognition for the 2010 Tucson Festival of Books

HON. GABRIELLE GIFFORDS

OF ARIZONA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Tuesday, March 11, 2010 Ms. GIFFORDS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 2010 Tucson Festival of Books, which will be held at the University of Arizona on March 13 and 14. The Tucson Festival of Books is a celebration of literacy and an opportunity for those of us who cherish books to meet the men and women who write them. It is, ultimately, a community's recognition of the great value we place on the written word. As the proud home of the University of Arizona, Tucson is the ideal place for a festival of books. The Festival brings together more than 450 authors and presenters who will speak about their work, sign their books and answer questions about their craft. Now in its second year, the Tucson Festival of Books will have writing workshops and competitions, panel presentations, children's activities, storytelling, artists and musicians. The Festival truly provides something for readers of all ages. In 2009 more than 50,000 people attended the Festival and an even larger turn out is expected this year. Clearly the people of Southern Arizona have a strong love of books and reading. As much fun and informative as the Festival will be, it also serves a larger purpose. I believe that the Tucson Festival of Books can help us improve literacy and encourage young people to expand their knowledge of the world. It is a reminder of how essential books and the information they impart are to our society and to our form of government. In 2009, the Festival raised $200,000, which was distributed to agencies providing literacy services in Tucson. "Once you learn to read," Frederick Douglass told us, "you will be forever free." The Tucson Festival of Books plays an important role in fulfilling that promise.

The 2010 Tucson Festival of Books is sponsored by the University of Arizona, the Arizona Daily Star and The Diamond Children's Medical Center. The Festival is organized and run by the Tucson Festival of Books Foundation, a non-profit organization. It was founded by Bill Viner, President of the Foundation Board of Directors. He is joined in this labor of love by Board Vice Presidents Frank Farias and John M. Humenik, Treasurer Bruce Beach and Secretary Brenda Viner. The Festival would not be possible without their hard work and dedication and the efforts of many volunteers. On behalf of a grateful community I thank and commend them for bringing us this incredible gift.