| Garrison Keillor (left), a well-known Minnesota writer and host of A Prairie Home Companion and The Writer's Almanac, was greeted by an enthusiastic crowd at Anoka-Ramsey Community College Cambridge Campus’ 20th annual Minnesota Writer program, which will host multiple events throughout October. Keillor stayed after his performance to sign his new book, “Pontoon,” for everyone in attendance, including Mary Januschka, a college science faculty member.
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Those lucky enough to obtain tickets to the event were not disappointed. Students, faculty, staff and the community members were greeted by a rousing performance by Keillor, which included readings from Minnesota poets and his latest book, “Pontoon” as well as nostalgic commentary about life in Minnesota. Keillor finished the on-stage performance by taking questions from the audience.
“Soon after he [Keillor] arrived, it became clear that he needed very little from us,” says William Breen, Cambridge Campus English faculty member and event organizer. “After a stellar and hilarious performance, he walked right into the reception area to chat and sign autographs. Obviously, he’s a seasoned performer, who appreciates his audience.”
Along with Keillor, the month-long celebration of Minnesota writers also included campus visits from: Susan Leaf, a naturalist and biologist and author of the non-fiction book, “Potato City: Nature, History, and Community in the Age of Sprawl;” William Durbin, a teacher and the author of ten novels for young readers; and Lorena Duarte, a poet and a performance artist born in El Salvador.
An open microphone reading, featuring students, faculty and staff presenting original works of fiction, non-fiction and poetry, Oct. 24, noon-1 p.m., in room G201 will be the last event for this year.
For more information about the Anoka-Ramsey Community College Cambridge Campus Minnesota Writer program, contact Breen at 763.433.1906. |
