James Baker Hall Foundation Celebrates Kick-Off May 1

On May 1, The James Baker Hall Foundation held our inaugural event to announce the creation of the foundation and introduce the first grantees. Additionally, foundation Managing Director Larry Pemble announced the launch of the James Baker Hall Book Award which this year will focus on poetry.

The night at the Carnegie Center was a celebration of the legacy of James Baker Hall and featured prominent Kentucky writers and poets entertaining the crowd with readings. Two programs have been awarded initial funding: The Ironwood Writer's Studio and the Creative Writing Program at the Bullitt County Detention Center. Representatives from the program shared the impact that funding will mean to their respective programs.

One of the goals of the foundation is to keep the unique voice of Kentucky alive and the night concluded with the announcement of the first annual James Baker Hall Foundation Book Award. The $3,000 award winner will be announced in October.

Many thanks to the Carnegie Center for providing the backdrop for the successful launch of the James Baker Hall Foundation.