There is not a word in the language of the gods to describe how grateful I am to everyone who came to last night’s Sword and Verse Gala to benefit Deaf Camps, Inc.  I got to celebrate the launch of my debut novel with my favorite people from all the different spheres of my life, and I got to highlight an organization that is dear to my heart and make a contribution to the Deaf Camps, Inc. scholarship fund.

Sword and Verse is all about language and communication, and how detrimental limiting access to language is.  That’s why I am especially pleased that my launch event was able to highlight and support Deaf Camps, Inc.,  a volunteer-run non-profit organization dedicated to providing fun, safe, communication-rich camps that promote the physical, spiritual, and social development of Deaf/hard of hearing children and children learning American Sign Language.  I have been involved with Deaf Camps, Inc. for fifteen years, and never have I met a more dedicated and passionate group of people.

Thank you to the board and volunteers of Deaf Camps, Inc, who worked hard to pull this event off; to Elaine Benson and Joanne Westerman, who provided interpreting services for the evening; to the staff of Grey Rock Mansion and Simply Elegant Catering, who hosted us in style, and to the many donors who made this event possible:

• Bruce Gearhart, Bacchus Importers, Ltd.
• Baltimore Symphony Orchestra
• Betsey Gilbert, LMT
• Center Stage
• The Children’s Bookstore
• Christine Ruane, LMT
• Diana Keener
• El Kelly
• Erin Krug
• Everyman Theater
• Frank and Dot Kelly
• Friends Records
• Joanne Westerman
• Joe Dellarena, Novelty Joes, LLC
• Lyric Opera House
• Maryland Science Center
• Pumpkin Theater
• Single Carrot Theater
• Spotlighters Theater
• The Washington Capitals