Being a vendor at the First Missionary Baptist Heritage Day Festival on February 4, 2025, in downtown Winter Haven was truly special. Sharing my literary collection with the community in the city’s heart felt like more than just setting up a table—it was about connecting through words, stories, and shared heritage.

Throughout the day, I met people eager to talk about books, history, and faith. Some stopped by to browse, others to share a memory sparked by something they read, and a few even left with a new book and a smile. The energy downtown was vibrant music, the scent of good food drifting by, and a real sense of togetherness that made every conversation meaningful.

I walked away grateful for the chance to be part of such a mighty celebration. The festival was a beautiful reminder of why we honor our heritage: it brings us together, inspires us, and gives us stories worth telling and passing on.

Author Dr. Alonzo

Something about Down Home Days in Madison, Florida, made me feel like I’d stepped into a living scrapbook filled with laughter, familiar faces, and the scent of barbecue drifting on a spring breeze. Those days weren’t just about the festivities for those of us who grew up here. They were a reminder of what it means to belong.

I saw neighbors with whom I hadn’t crossed paths in years and picked up right where we left off. I watched kids race down Main Street while parents swapped stories about “back in the day.” For a weekend, the celebration turned our small town into a family.

Down Home Days reminded me where I came from and why those roots still matter. It proved that no matter how far life takes me, Madison has a way of calling me back—if not in body, then always in heart. Here’s to the memories I made, the traditions I carried on, and the hometown spirit that continues to shape me.

Author Dr. Alonzo

March 19, 2025

Dear Dundee Heritage Day Festival Committee,

I express my deepest gratitude for the fantastic opportunity to share my literary collection at this year’s Heritage Day Festival. That sunny Saturday afternoon on March 8th will remain etched in my memory as one of the most rewarding experiences of my writing journey.

Seeing visitors’ faces light up as they browsed through my collection, hearing their stories, and engaging in meaningful conversations about literature and local history made the day truly special. The festival’s warm, community-centered atmosphere provided the perfect setting for these connections to flourish.

I was particularly touched by the thoughtful organization of the event and the dedication of the volunteers who made everything run so smoothly. The designated reading area was ideally situated, and the schedule allowed intimate interactions with festival-goers I’ll always cherish.

Your commitment to celebrating and preserving our local heritage while providing a platform for contemporary artists and writers is commendable. Events like these strengthen our community bonds and create lasting memories for everyone involved.

Thank you again for including me in this year’s festival. I would be honored to participate in future Heritage Day celebrations and continue supporting Dundee’s vibrant cultural scene.

With sincere appreciation,
Author Dr. Alonzo

Dear Literary Supporters,

I am grateful for the incredible opportunity to share my literary collection with the vibrant San Antonio, Texas community. Your presence, enthusiasm, and willingness to embrace these words have created something magical.

Langston Hughes once wrote: “Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is a broken-winged bird that cannot fly.” These words resonate deeply with me today, as you’ve helped my dreams take flight. Through your support, my words have found wings, and together, we’re soaring toward new horizons of inspiration and understanding.

Your warm reception in San Antonio, Texas, has strengthened my resolve to continue spreading messages of hope and wisdom. Each face in the audience, each handshake, and each conversation we shared has become part of a larger tapestry of connection and growth.

This isn’t just a milestone—it’s a beginning. I promise to keep nurturing this gift of storytelling, pushing boundaries, and creating work that speaks to the heart and uplifts the spirit.

Thank you for believing in the power of words, for being part of this journey, and for helping dreams take flight in the heart of Texas.

With deepest appreciation,
Author Dr. Alonzo

Dear Friends and Community Members,

My heart still sings from our beautiful gathering at the Melanin Cultural Festival this past February at Dr. Martin Luther King Park. What a profound joy it was to share my literary collections with you, watching eyes light up and spirits lift as words bridged the space between us.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by to chat, share a story, or simply listen. Your presence and enthusiasm turned a simple book-sharing session into something magical. Each conversation reminded me why I write: to spark hope, share wisdom, and remind us all that our stories matter.

Standing in Winter Haven, beneath the Florida sun, I felt the essence of what Dr. King dreamed about – a community coming together, celebrating culture, and lifting each other up through shared experiences and understanding. Your warmth and receptiveness to my literary works filled me with renewed purpose and inspiration.

To the festival organizers who created this incredible platform for cultural expression and community connection – your vision brought us together in ways that will ripple through our community for years to come.

Remember, every word we share, every story we tell, adds another thread to the rich tapestry of our cultural heritage. Let’s keep inspiring, encouraging, and uplifting one another through the power of words and wisdom. Your enthusiasm for my books also reminded me that when we share our truth, we light the way for others to share theirs. Thank you for being part of this beautiful journey.

With heartfelt gratitude and continued inspiration,
Author Dr. Alonzo