SC Arts Commission Press Releases
John Jakes to Speak 2008 Elizabeth O'Neill Verner Awards Luncheon
In celebration of its 40th anniversary, S.C. Arts Commission invites former awards recipients to Statehouse ceremony and awards luncheon for recognition
March 12, 2008
Media Contact:
Milly Hough
(803) 734-8698
COLUMBIA, S.C. –Novelist John Jakes has accepted the S.C. Arts Foundation's invitation to speak at the Elizabeth O'Neill Verner/Governor's Awards for the Arts luncheon Wednesday, April 16 at the Marriott Hotel in Columbia. Sponsored by Carolina First, the noon luncheon follows a special Statehouse ceremony, where Jakes and six other recipients will receive Verner Awards, and two individuals will receive the Jean Laney Harris Folk Heritage Award.
"With a lifetime of award-winning works and recognition on national and international levels, John Jakes has made major contributions to the world of literary arts," says S.C. Arts Commission Executive Director Suzette M. Surkamer.
"We are pleased to honor him for these renowned achievements, and delighted to have him speak to this year's award recipients and luncheon guests about the importance of local commitment to the arts."
In celebration of its 40th anniversary, the S.C. Arts Commission is also welcoming former Verner/Governor's Awards for the Arts and Folk Heritage Award recipients to the Statehouse ceremony and luncheon. The S.C. General Assembly will recognize these individuals, businesses and organizations along with this year's recipients. The S.C. Arts Foundation and Carolina First will also recognize former recipients at the awards luncheon at the Marriott.
For more about the 2008 Verner/Governor's Awards for the Arts and Folk Heritage Award ceremony and luncheon, or about past and present recipients, click here or call (803) 734-8696.
About SCAC:
The South Carolina Arts Commission is the state agency charged with creating a thriving arts environment that benefits all South Carolinians, regardless of their location or circumstances. Created by the South Carolina General Assembly in 1967, the Arts Commission is celebrating 40 years of increasing public participation in the arts by providing services, grants and leadership initiatives in three areas: arts education, community arts development and artist development. Headquartered in Columbia, S.C., the Arts Commission is funded by the state of South Carolina and by the federal government through the National Endowment for the Arts. For more information, visit www.SouthCarolinaArts.com or call (803) 734-8696.
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