Your Support is More Vital Now than Ever
In Spring 2020, as the country went into shutdown mode, we followed guidelines and closed our doors, but we didn’t abandon our mission—to build community through the arts – shifting to online programming. This unprecedented closure allowed us to move forward, uninterrupted, in the restoration of our historic home. We are happy to report that this massive project is nearing completion.
With your support we planned and produced a wide array of successful events and programs virtually. By spring/summer of 2021, we were able to offer some limited in-person programming, gallery shows and outdoor fundraising events, following new Covid safety protocols. To keep our community safe, amidst the new wave of the Delta variant, we opted for a virtual Festival of Books again this year, with a curated Online Store and top notch autor presentations. As the weather cools, we are proceeding cautiously with live performances featuring limited seating and air purifiers in the auditorium.
Your support is always valued and this year, it remains as vital as ever as we forge ahead in these uncertain times. Please make your tax-deductible gift today.
Upcoming Events And Activities
SOLD OUT: Wanda Houston Band
Saturday, December 4, 8:00pm
IN PERSON AT THE ACADEMY! A dynamic blend of classic jazz, R&B, contemporary, and rock, one of the most popular musical groups in the area.
Thanks to All Who Participated in This Year's Festival of Books
See the full 2021 schedule page, complete with author's bios and websites.
A Huge Round of Applause to Our Festival of Book Sponsors
We could not have done it without your generosity.
Visit our Sponsors page.
Watch and Listen to our recent Programming
2021 Young Writers' Contest Winners
Six prize winners and one honorable mention were chosen from 38 entries to the 2021 competition. See the winners and read their works.
Rishi Reddi & Dexter Palmer
Discuss their works of historical fiction with Daphne Kalotay. Watch the video on our YouTube channel.
Peter Sis
Discusses his book Nicky and Vera- A Quiet Hero of the Holocaust and the Children He Rescued, with Carl Atkins.
Watch the video.
Rick Rogers
Learn how to make Almas Pite, a delicious Hungarian apple pie.
In conversation with Madaline Sparks. Watch the interview.
Ayad Akhtar
Discusses Homeland Elegies and his fascinating career with Julie DeLisle. On our YouTube channel.
Russell Shorto
In conversation with David Highfill on his book Smalltime: A Story of My Family and the Mob. Watch the interview.
Clare Mulley and Sonia Purnell
Two historians and authors whose books focus on remarkable women and their roles in WWII, will discuss their works with David Highfill, Festival co-chair. On our YouTube Channel.
"Nicky and Vera: A Quiet Hero of the Holocaust and the Children He Rescued"
Reading and discussion of Peter Sis' book with Ann Gainer, storyteller & former librarian. On YouTube.
Michael Kupperman Discusses "All The Answers"
A graphic novel and moving memoir about his father. Brian Heater, a comics and tech writer-podcaster, joins the author in conversation. On YouTube.
HERE'S HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED
Become a Member
We're dedicated to programs in a welcoming space for our Columbia County community and neighbors. Learn More
Winter 2020-2021 Now Available
Looking back, and ahead, to better times. See the latest as well as past newsletters.
A "Home" of Our Own
To keep you all in the loop, we now have our own YouTube channel. Please subscribe, to see what has, and is, going on at the Academy!
