What would I do without my generous friends and supporters? Chuck Sapp, owner of Paddiwhack Gallery in Gainesville, is one such person. I’ve known Chuck for nearly 30 years, and  have enjoyed not only his friendship, but his beautiful gallery, which occupies a unique niche in Gainesville. It’s the kind of place you can go, not just for the perfect greeting card or gift, but to relax and sit amidst beautiful artwork of every type, on a comfortable couch or chair.

When my first chapbook, The Heart Contracts, came out three years ago, Chuck hosted at a launch party and book signing at the store. It turned out to be an unforgettable experience and memory; so many of my friends, co-workers and fellow writers from the local community came out to hear me read and help me celebrate the publication of  this book, which happened after many years of submissions and rejections, and at a point in my life where I was close to giving up on the idea of publishing a collection. When Concrete Wolf published my second chapbook, Accommodations, this summer, Chuck once again offered to host an event that would allow me to read from the work, visit with anyone who might stop by during the event, talk about the book to anyone interested and maybe even sell a few copies (Chuck already has several copies for sale  at Paddiwhack.)

The Book Launch and Signing Party for Accommodations will be Aug. 25, from 1-5 p.m. at Paddiwhack, 1510 Nw 13th St., Gainesville. I hope there’ll be a good turnout, but regardless of how many show up, I know it’ll be a great time.