At last! Today’s the day for One Golden Gala, your chance to celebrate the global success of hometown lake girl and best-selling author, Carley Fortune. This is a big day for Madawaska Valley Public Library too, as this is a major fundraiser. As the author herself reminds us,
Public libraries are where possibility begins – and coming home to Barry’s Bay to celebrate my journey, in support of the library that helped shape it, is a huge honour.– Carley Fortune
If you are one of the 100 lucky ticketholders going to the Paul J. Yakabuski Community Centre when the festivities begin at 4pm, here’s a handy checklist to ensure you’re ready for all the fun:
Are you caught up?
You only have today to finish binge-watching (or indeed RE-binge-watching) of Every Year After, the Amazon Prime series based on Carley’s best-selling debut novel, Every Summer After, set in Barry’s Bay. Don’t worry that it was filmed in Tofino, BC, or that you might not hear a Valley accent from all the characters – it’s all about the romance, guys!
Are you kitted out appropriately?
That is, have you planned your Gala outfit? In true romance fashion, you can spend the morning laying out your wardrobe choices and trying them on one by one to see if you’re happy with how you look. And if you feel something’s not up to scratch, don’t worry. There’s still time today to head over to downtown Barry’s Bay and visit local establishments like Stedmans, Afelskies, Gift It Gray to ensure you’re got proper Valley-sourced kit to wear. MV Public Library offered a handy fashion guide on their Facebook page this week. Check it out here.
Have you taken a selfie at all the benches?
Did you know that Carley has sponsored some benches at scenic spots in our community? Thanks to this handy map provided by MV Public Library, you can visit the benches in honour of the romantic couples from Carley’s best-loved novels.
Are you up-to-date with Carley on social?
This is essential online behaviour for serious Carley Fortune fans! Are you following her on all your social media platforms? Have you been following the author’s latest book tour? Signed up for her newsletter? Better do that now, so you know what’s going on. A good starting point is her website: carleyfortune.com
Have you been supporting the Gala sponsors?
The list of local businesses, organizations, individuals who have contributed to today’s celebration financially, with in-kind donations, or through volunteering is very long indeed. (Photo below) Please remember them with your support if you haven’t already.
Is your Library membership up to date?
Whether you borrow materials physically or virtually, MV Public Library has something for everyone. And that’s before participation in all the free programming opportunities the Library offers. Everyone in your household could benefit from Library membership. Whether or not you’re attending today’s Gala, your public library needs your support to continue serving this community.
Is your phone charged?
If you do nothing else before you head to the Gala this afternoon, be sure you have fully charged your phone. You don’t want to miss out on the photo opportunities this evening, with friends, family, and Carley herself.
Have you packed correctly for the Gala?
Are you bringing a well-loved copy of one of Carley’s books tonight in the hope of an autograph? Or maybe you have a photo from your MV high school days with her that you want to show off. Are your shoes comfy? And of course, have you got your ticket and (if you’re 19+ yrs) your card/money for the cash bar?
Phew! That’s it! Have fun!!!