Category: Time Sensitive

The free online literary adventure returns April 11th–12th with keynotes, conversations, panels, author insights, and fan-favorite BookFest traditions.

LOS ANGELES, CA, UNITED STATES, March 12, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — The BookFest Adventure^® returns for its 13th biannual virtual event on April 11th and 12th, 2026, bringing together a powerful lineup of authors, publishing professionals, industry experts, and literary voices for a free weekend celebrating books, storytelling, and connection.

This Spring’s event features keynote appearances by Dr. Abraham George and Carla A. Harris, plus a special conversation with New York Times bestselling author Christina Baker Kline and a salute to Lee Wind, recipient of the Honorary Achievement BookFest Award. Across two days of livestream programming, attendees can expect conversations designed to inspire readers, support writers, and celebrate the literary community from multiple angles.

The BookFest Founder Desireé Duffy says, “The BookFest Spring 2026 is a celebration of the purpose stories bring to our lives. This season’s speakers remind us that books do more than entertain, they help us understand ourselves, each other, and the world around us. From meaningful keynotes to practical publishing insights, this BookFest is designed to spark inspiration for readers and writers alike.”

Opening the festival on Saturday, Dr. Abraham George presents “Where Success Meets Purpose,” a keynote focused on achievement, service, and impact. The event also honors Lee Wind for his extraordinary contributions to inclusivity, representation, and advocacy in the literary world. Christina Baker Kline joins the program for “The Stories We Inherit,” a conversation exploring the powerful intersection of history, memory, and fiction.

Sunday turns attention toward writers and the evolving publishing landscape with keynote speaker Carla A. Harris. Additional sessions will explore historical fiction, author websites, media exposure, direct sales, audiobook opportunities, publishing pathways, and timely book marketing strategies for 2026.

Saturday’s programming is dedicated to readers, while Sunday’s programming focuses on writers and industry professionals. This Spring’s highlights include:

Saturday, April 11th, 2026, livestream programming is dedicated to readers. The programming includes:

Welcome Message from The BookFest Founder Desireé Duffy
Opening Keynote – Dr. Abraham George: Where Success Meets Purpose
A Salute to Lee Wind – Winner of the Honorary Achievement BookFest Award
A Conversation with Christina Baker Kline – The Stories We Inherit
Segment – Three Things People Get Wrong About Superman with William Bernhardt
Panel Discussion – Shelf Shuffle: A Mix of Must-Reads
Segment – Pitch Perfect: Getting Bookstores to Say Yes with Dr. Tenia L. Davis
Segment – Listen with Impact: A New Way to Experience Audiobooks with Becky Parker Geist, presented by AMPlify Audiobooks
BookFest Award Winner Spotlight – Kay Oliver: When the Reader Becomes the Detective
Author Chats hosted by Scott Ryan and Becca Moore

Sunday, April 12th, 2026, livestream programming is dedicated to writers. The programming includes:

Welcome Back Message
Keynote – Carla A. Harris
Segment – Research and Imagination in Historical Fiction with Beth Freely
Segment – Plot Your Story in 15 Minutes with Cameron Sutter, presented by Plottr
Panel Discussion – Media and Authors: Connecting Stories to Audiences
Segment – Website Resources: Choosing the Right Platform for Your Needs with Denise Mullinex, presented by Geek Girl Publishing
Segment – Publishing Options Today: The Pros and Cons with Lisa Diane Kastner
Segment – Direct Sales Simplified: Author Websites That Sell with Amy Wolf
Panel Discussion – When Scares are Real: Writing Spooky Non-fiction
Segment – Amplify Your Audiobook Impact with Becky Parker Geist, presented by AMPlify Audiobooks
Panel Discussion – Book Marketing in 2026: What’s Working Now to Drive Sales, presented by Writers and Publishers Network
A Salute to The BookFest Award Winners Spring 2026

Check the full schedule on The BookFest website’s Programming Page, where updates and changes will be posted.

The full list of BookFest Spring 2026 speakers includes: Dale Arenson; Christina Baker Kline; William Bernhardt; Michael Chatfield; Tricia Copeland; Pat Daily; Dr. Tenia Davis; Derek Doepker; Lori B. Duff; Desireé Duffy; Beth Freely; DC Gomez; Becky Parker Geist; Dr. Abraham George; Jeffery H. Haskel; Carla A. Harris; Kathleen Kaiser; Lisa Diane Kastner; Gail M. Kearns; Diana Colleen; Shamayne Olivia Kotfas; Vince Liaguno; Caramel Lucas; Lucia Matuonto; Becca Moore; Adanna Moriarty; Lisa Morton; Denise Mullinex; Lesléa Newman; Kay Oliver; John Palisano; María Paula Silva Paredes; Donald Prothero; Aimee Ravichandran; Douglas E. Richards; Loren Rhoads; Scott Ryan; Pat Sangimino; Cameron Sutter; Julie Trelstad; S. E. Tschritter; Alan Warren; Lee Wind; and Amy Wolf.

Attendees can also explore the Virtual Booths, browse the Books Page, and visit the Speaker Pages throughout the event. Popular BookFest features return this Spring, including opportunities to discover new books, connect with literary brands, and enjoy exclusive offers through the Virtual Gift Bag.
The BookFest is free to attend and streams on TheBookFest.com, the Books That Make You YouTube Channel, and across social platforms. People are encouraged to become a BookFester by signing up for updates and event news delivered directly to their inbox.

The BookFest is produced by Black Château Enterprises and presented in part by Books That Make You.

About The BookFest^®

The BookFest is the leader in virtual literary events and produces vital conversations on the world’s stage for those who love to read and those who love to write. It launched May 2020 at a time when lockdown forced many live events to be cancelled. Free to attend the biannual event happens in the spring and fall and streams panel discussions conversations and live interactive sessions. As an award winner The BookFest has recognitions from the Webby Awards with a nomination in 2021 a gold award from the Muse Creative Awards in 2020 and a silver award from the w3 Awards in 2020. The BookFest features an array of literary speakers experts and authors which has included: Mitch Albom; Kevin J. Anderson; Angela Bole; Mark Coker; Robert G. Diforio; Cheryl Willis Hudson; Wade Hudson; Sarah Kendzior; Jonathan Maberry; Lisa Morton; Karla Olson; James Rollins; Connie Schultz; Michael Shermer; Mark K. Shriver; Danny Trejo; Helene Wecker; Dr. Chanda Prescod-Weinstein and many others. The BookFest is presented by Books That Make You and produced by Black Château Enterprises. The BookFest is a registered trademark of Desireé Duffy who is the founder of all three. For more information visit TheBookFest.com.

Desiree Duffy
Black Chateau
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The Robinson Crusoe-inspired VR survival adventure launches out of Early Access with new content and the complete story in its largest update to date.

TALLINN, ESTONIA, March 12, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Maru VR today announced that Bootstrap Island, the Robinson Crusoe-inspired VR survival adventure available on Steam, has officially left Early Access and is now available in Full Release.

The launch introduces the largest update in the game’s development, bringing the introduction of a local tribe players can interact with, concluding the survivor’s story, and adding new gameplay systems, threats, and technical improvements.

Watch the Full Release Trailer: https://youtu.be/KSomvTkmJlU

A Ruthless Survival Experience in VR
In Bootstrap Island, players step into the role of Daniel, a 17th-century castaway fighting to survive on a ruthless tropical island. With no guidance and no predefined solutions, survival depends entirely on instinct, observation, and experimentation.

The island operates as a dynamic, systems-driven world shaped by interacting systems such as weather, fire, liquids, physics, and animal behavior. Players gather resources, hunt wildlife, build shelters, and prepare for the dangers that emerge after dark.
Instead of watching danger unfold, players stand inside it, reacting physically and solving survival challenges their own way.

The Island Expands in Full Release
During its two years in Early Access, Bootstrap Island received five major updates. The Full Release introduces the largest update of content and systems yet.

The Local Tribe
A new layer of depth arrives with the introduction of a local tribe, equipped with their own tools, weapons, and behaviors. Through a new communication and trading system, players can build relationships with the tribe — or provoke hostility — shaping the future of island life.

The Complete Story
The Full Release concludes the story of Daniel, the shipwrecked survivor. Through cinematic cutscenes and voice performances, players uncover his past, the events that led to the shipwreck, and explore the possible paths his fate may take.

New Threats and Survival Challenges
The island becomes even more dangerous with the introduction of a new boss encounter — the Blood Challenger — additional weapons, and expanded combat possibilities.

Custom Mode
Players can tailor the survival experience through Custom Mode, adjusting key gameplay parameters such as day length, world intensity, and survival systems to suit their preferred playstyle. Whether seeking a relentless survival challenge or a slower, exploration-focused experience, players can shape their own journey.

Performance Improvements, Achievements, and Localization
Alongside the new content, the Full Release includes significant performance optimizations and gameplay refinements, improving stability and responsiveness across supported PC VR hardware.

The launch version also introduces Steam Achievements, giving players additional milestones and challenges as they push their survival skills further.
The game now includes subtitles localized in 11 languages, making the story accessible to more players worldwide.

Launch Discount and Supporter Pack
To celebrate the Full Release, Bootstrap Island will be available for a limited time at its Early Access price — $24.99 USD with a 10% launch discount. After the promotion ends, the base price will increase to $27.99 USD, reflecting the expanded scope and content added throughout development.

At launch, a cosmetic supporter pack will also be available for $4.99 USD. The DLC features exclusive 17th-century weapons and accoutrements once owned by a nobleman, offering players a way to bring prestige and elegance to their survival adventure while further supporting the indie team behind the game.
A bundle including the game and the supporter pack will also be available with a 10% discount.

The Making of Bootstrap Island
Bootstrap Island was developed by Maru VR, a small independent studio based in Estonia with a clear ambition: to fulfill the full potential of virtual reality.
Before beginning development, the team created more than 40 VR projects to better understand what makes the medium truly immersive and worth putting on a VR headset for. Those lessons shaped Bootstrap Island into a survival experience designed from the ground up for VR, rather than adapted from traditional flat-screen games.

While much of the VR market shifted toward lower-power standalone hardware, the team chose to focus on high-end PC VR in order to pursue their vision without compromise.

Launched into Early Access on Steam in February 2024, the game expanded through five major content updates while incorporating community feedback for additional polish and improvements.

Contact
For more information, please contact: contact@bootstrapisland.com
Press Kit: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1OR-7BvyUUaK6xnLCOu_MT_yquZFsoKxl?usp=drive_link

Lilit Palmar
Maru VR
email us here

Bootstrap Island – Launch Trailer | Steam VR

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ATLANTA, GA, UNITED STATES, March 12, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Public Statement

In 2024, Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation, Inc. (“BLM GNF”) initiated a civil action in the Los Angeles County Superior Court against Tides Foundation and Tides Center, alleging breach of contract, fraud, financial mismanagement, and intentional wrongdoing.

Following discussion and discovery, BLM GNF has voluntarily dismissed its lawsuit against Tides Center and Tides Foundation.
Furthermore, BLM GNF retracts all claims and allegations, including, specifically, of fraud, breach of contract, and financial mismanagement against Tides, and acknowledges that Tides did not engage in any wrongdoing with respect to BLM GNF or any other matters raised in the litigation.

Reference: BLMGNF v Tides Foundation et al, case no. 24STCV11342 (Judge Joseph Lipner).
Foley & Lardner LLP
555 S Flower St, Suite 3300, Los Angeles, CA 90071-2411

Ebony Porter Ike
The epiMediaGroup, LLC
+1 770-635-8170
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Local Businesses Unite for a “Girls Day with Etta May” Celebration in Decatur

DECATUR, IL, UNITED STATES, March 12, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — The Midwest is about to get a much-needed dose of laughter when nationally acclaimed comedian Etta May takes the stage at the historic Lincoln Square Theater on Saturday, March 14. Known for her hilarious stories of Southern family life, motherhood, and marriage, Etta May will headline an unforgettable night of comedy alongside fellow comedians Sonya White and Jodi White.
But the laughter starts long before the curtain rises.

Six local businesses have come together to create a special “Girls Day with Etta May” experience, inviting women from across the region to enjoy a full day of shopping, food, and fun before the show. The itinerary begins at 10:00 AM at the Elwin Antique Mall, where guests will be welcomed with coffee and donuts to kick off the day.

From there, the celebration continues with stops at several beloved local destinations, each offering exclusive discounts for anyone showing their Etta May ticket:
• Wabash Depot Antique Mall – A destination packed with vintage treasures, collectibles, and unique finds.
• Never Forgotten Thymes – A charming shop filled with nostalgic décor, gifts, and timeless pieces.
• Antiques by the Rail – Known for its eclectic mix of antiques and one-of-a-kind items that collectors love.
• KC Finds – A boutique-style antique and décor shop offering distinctive pieces perfect for home styling and gift giving.
• Shop on Main – A fashionable women’s boutique featuring stylish apparel and accessories.

After a day of exploring, guests can enjoy dinner at Coney McKanes American Eatery, located conveniently right across the street from the Lincoln Square Theater, making it the perfect stop before the evening’s main event.
Then it’s showtime.

Headlining the night is Etta May, one of America’s most beloved stand-up comedians. Born in Bald Knob, Arkansas, Etta May grew up alongside nine older brothers who lovingly referred to their baby sister as “the human sacrifice.” Her unique upbringing, married life, and motherhood have provided endless inspiration for her comedy.

Before finding success on stage, Etta May worked a string of everyday jobs—including a ten-year stint as a school bus driver, where she claims she mastered crowd control by Armor-Alling the seats and slamming on the brakes.

Eventually, she decided to take a chance on her dream. A few years later, she was awarded “Female Comic of the Year” at the American Comedy Awards, launching a career that has taken her to national television and sold-out theaters across the country.

Etta May has appeared on Oprah, Showtime, MTV, Comic Strip Live, and as a guest commentator on CBS Sunday Morning. She is also a regular voice on SiriusXM Comedy channels and the nationally syndicated Bob & Tom Radio Show. She headlines the wildly popular all-female comedy tour “Etta May and the Southern Fried Chicks,” often described as the Blue Collar Comedy Tour with better hair and a bigger attitude.

Joining her on stage are two powerhouse comedians:
Sonya White, whose Southern charm mixed with city-smart humor has earned appearances on Star Search (CBS), Last Comic Standing (NBC), Southern Fried Chicks (CMT), Comedy Spotlight Roadtrip (Comcast), and the U.S. Comedy Arts Festival.

Jodi White is a fearless comic known for her bold humor about marriage, divorce, and life’s absurdities. With four wedding dresses and three ex-husbands, Jodi delivers comedy that is unapologetically honest and wildly entertaining. She has appeared on Nick at Night, Stand Up Nashville Live, Island Hoppers with James Van Der Beek, Ridiculousness on MTV, and is a favorite performer on Carnival Cruise Lines.

Adding to the excitement, Etta May will also be featured on the WAND television series Inside the Green Room, which airs exclusively on the WAND Now app. The episode will be sponsored by 3:43 BBQ, who will present Etta—the queen of Southern sass—with some authentic Midwest barbecue during her visit to Decatur.

Organizers say the event is more than just a comedy show—it’s a community celebration.
“Local businesses decided it was time to bring laughter back to the Midwest,” organizers said. “They came together to welcome Etta May with open arms and create an entire day of fun for women and friends to enjoy together.”

Because Etta May tours less frequently than she once did, having her perform in Decatur is considered a rare opportunity to see one of the country’s top comedians in an intimate historic theater setting.

Tickets are still available but expected to move quickly.

Event Details
Etta May & The Southern Fried Chicks Comedy Tour
Saturday, March 14
Lincoln Square Theater
141 N Main St
Decatur, Illinois

Tickets:
Visit LSTevents.com
Phone:
217-454-4583
Come early, shop local, enjoy dinner downtown, and get ready for a night where the Midwest laughs again.

Tammy Corwin
WMP Multi-Media Network
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Cumberland Academy of Georgia to Honor Legacy of Founding Board Member Valery Voyles at Annual “Party FORE a Purpose” Gala

ATLANTA CITY, GA, UNITED STATES, March 12, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Cumberland Academy of Georgia is proud to announce that its signature annual fundraising event, Party FORE a Purpose, will this year be dedicated to honoring the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of founding board member, Valery Voyles.

Valery Voyles was a cornerstone of the Cumberland Academy of Georgia community from its inception. As a founding board member, her visionary leadership and unwavering advocacy were instrumental in establishing the school as a premier institution for students with special needs.

Her passion for the academy’s mission was deeply personal, driven by a lifelong commitment to ensuring every child has access to an environment where they can thrive academically and socially.

“Valery’s heart was truly tied to Cumberland Academy of Georgia,” says Founder and Head of School Debbi Scarborough. “She didn’t just help start a school; she helped build a family. This year, as we gather for our gala, we aren’t just raising funds—we are celebrating a woman whose dedication paved the way for hundreds of students to find their voice and their future.”

The Party FORE a Purpose gala serves as the academy’s primary fundraiser, with proceeds directly benefiting the specialized programs and student scholarships that make Cumberland a vital resource in Georgia. By dedicating this year’s event to Valery Voyles, the academy seeks to unite the community in a tribute to a leader who believed fiercely in the potential of every student.

Members of the community, local business leaders, and supporters of special education are invited to join this evening of remembrance, celebration, and philanthropy.

Event Details:

What: Party FORE a Purpose Gala

When: March 21st, 2026 at 6:30 pm

Where: TOPGOLF Alpharetta

Highlights: Join us for a night of food, drinks, dancing, a silent auction, and of course, TOPGOLF!

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now available. For more information on how to attend or support the event in honor of Valery Voyles, please visit OUR EVENT WEBSITE.

About Cumberland Academy of Georgia:

Cumberland Academy of Georgia is a non-profit, fully accredited independent school specializing in the education of students in grades 4-12 with autism, attention deficit disorder (ADD), and other learning differences. The academy’s mission is to provide a safe, supportive, and challenging educational environment where students can reach their full potential.

Jessica Jones
Cumberland Academy of Georgia
+1 404-835-9000
Jessica.Jones@cumberlandacademy.org
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Awards to honor books from seven categories, all chosen by independent booksellers

HARRISON, NY, UNITED STATES, March 12, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — The American Booksellers Association (ABA) is eager to share the shortlist for the Indies Choice Book Awards literary prize.

Reflecting the spirit of independent bookstores and the IndieBound movement, the Indie Choice Book Awards are nominated and selected by booksellers from over 3,000 independent bookstores nationwide. They celebrate the best and brightest titles by authors and illustrators in the indie channel, showcasing the remarkable range of talent indie booksellers champion and share with readers every day.

The award categories include Adult Fiction, Adult Nonfiction, Picture Book, Middle Grade, Young Adult, Debut Adult, and Debut Children’s. The shortlist features the top five titles as voted on by independent booksellers, with the Picture Book category featuring the top six. The winning title’s author(s)/illustrator(s) in each category will receive $2,000.

The awards showcase titles that appeared on the ABA’s Indie Next List, Kids’ Indie Next List, and Indies Introduce list in 2025. The Indie Next List program features bookseller-recommended favorites for adults and kids from indie bookstores across the country.

“The Indies Choice Book Awards are a celebration of what makes independent bookstores so vital to the literary ecosystem,” said Allison K Hill, CEO of American Booksellers Association. “These awards are voted on entirely by independent booksellers — people who read widely, recommend passionately, and engage with readers and authors every day. By drawing from titles featured on the ABA’s Indie Next List, Kids’ Indie Next List, and Indies Introduce book recommendations, these awards reflect a year of thoughtful curation, deep enthusiasm, and books we can’t stop talking about. The Indies Choice Book Awards are a celebration and the best way for readers to find their next favorite book.”

The shortlist and winners will be voted on by indie booksellers from ABA member independent bookstores. Voting opened on Wednesday, March 11, and will close Wednesday, March 25. Winners will be announced on April 8.

Inquiries about the Indies Choice Book Awards can be directed to icba@bookweb.org.

Ray Daniels
American Booksellers Association
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Presentation to Be Included in Proceedings Delivered to Delegates at COP31 in Antalya

CLEARWATER, FL, UNITED STATES, March 12, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Water 4 Mercy, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to eradicating thirst, hunger, and poverty across Africa, today announced that its Founder and CEO, Nermine Rubin, has been officially invited to serve as a featured speaker at the 2026 edition of FORUM NATURA, an international conference focused on environmental protection and sustainability.

The invitation, issued by the Archconfraternity of Parte Guelfa and the Diocese of Pistoia, confirms that Rubin is invited to present on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at the historic San Giovanni Fuorcivitas in Pistoia.

Her contribution at the event will be included in the official conference proceedings that Parte Guelfa will present to global delegates at the 2026 United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP31, to be held in Antalya.

Rubin’s presentation will highlight Water 4 Mercy’s innovative model combining solar-powered water systems, regenerative agriculture, and community-led development to transform remote villages. The organization’s work demonstrates how sustainable infrastructure can simultaneously improve public health, increase food security, empower local economies, and restore dignity for underserved populations.

The framework she will present, “Water Is Climate Security: A Scalable Systems Model for Global Resilience,” addresses one of the most urgent challenges in climate policy, specifically the intersection of water scarcity, food insecurity, and economic instability. With more than 2.2 billion people lacking safely managed drinking water and agricultural systems increasingly strained by erratic rainfall and soil degradation, Water 4 Mercy’s integrated model positions water stewardship as the foundation of climate adaptation.

Rather than treating water access, agriculture, and education as separate interventions, Water 4 Mercy’s Africa-based model interlinks water infrastructure, precision drip irrigation, agricultural fertigation for nutrient-dense crop production, and market-driven value chains within a unified operational system. Education and hands-on knowledge transfer ensure that local communities operate the systems and innovate and scale them for future generations.

“This invitation reflects the growing recognition that lasting environmental solutions must also address human survival and opportunity,” said Rubin. “When communities gain access to clean water and sustainable farming, they flourish. Sharing these solutions on a global stage opens new doors to partnerships that can expand this life-changing work to even more villages.

“Climate conversations too often focus only on emissions, but for billions of people, the frontline of climate change is water,” Rubin said. “If we secure water, we secure food. If we secure food, we secure economic stability. Water is climate security.”

Demonstrated outcomes from Water 4 Mercy’s projects include significant water-use reductions through solar-powered systems and drip irrigation, substantial increases in crop yields and nutritional content, and measurable gains in household income and regional market participation. Designed for replication and climate finance readiness, the model replaces dependency-based aid with durable infrastructure, technology transfer, and local capacity building.

“As global leaders prepare for COP31 in Antalya, the world needs models that are measurable, replicable, and finance-ready,” Rubin continued. “We are showing that climate adaptation can produce immediate economic returns while protecting natural resources for the next generation.”

Rubin was knighted as a Lady in 2024 in the historic order of Parte Guelfa, a knighthood dedicated to preserving the world and advancing environmental stewardship. The order, established in 1266 by the Knights of Florence with approval from Pope Clement IV and later entrusted with environmental protection responsibilities by Cosimo I de’ Medici, is now a global community of distinguished leaders in sustainability and humanitarian service. It also holds consultative status with the United Nations.

Water 4 Mercy’s approach integrates engineering, training, and local ownership to ensure long-term success. Solar wells eliminate the need for diesel fuel and reduce environmental impact, while drip-irrigation farms allow families to grow crops year-round despite drought conditions. These systems create stable food supplies, generate income, and free children from hours spent collecting unsafe water so they can attend school.

Participation in FORUM NATURA will amplify these results internationally, providing opportunities for collaboration with environmental leaders, policymakers, and philanthropic partners committed to sustainable development.

“Our mission has always been about more than delivering water,” Rubin added. “It is about restoring hope, dignity, and self-reliance. Presenting our work to global leaders is a powerful step toward bringing clean water and sustainable agriculture to every community that still waits for it.”

“When a mother no longer walks miles for water, when crops grow despite drought, and when children are in school instead of hauling buckets, that is climate resilience in action,” Rubin said.

About Water 4 Mercy, Inc.
Water 4 Mercy, Inc., is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity (EIN: 83-1742012) committed to upholding human dignity by eradicating thirst, hunger, and poverty in Africa. Through a holistic approach integrating clean water access, agricultural innovation, and community empowerment, Water 4 Mercy fosters health, education, and economic growth, creating ripple effects that transform lives and secure futures. To donate or learn more, please visit https://www.water4mercy.org

###

For more information or to schedule an interview with Nermine Rubin, please contact Dan Rene at 202-329-8357 or dan@danrene.com.

Dan Rene
Dan Rene Communications
+1 202-329-8357
dan@danrene.com

Water 4 Mercy is breaking the vicious cycle of thirst, hunger, and poverty. Learn more by visiting our website water4mercy.org

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The extraordinary set, marked Juvento Lopez Reyes, is the largest sterling set Woody Auction has ever sold and is expected to change hands for $22,000-$25,000.

DOUGLASS, KS, UNITED STATES, March 12, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — April showers may bring May flowers, but April will also bring a shower of surprises in Woody Auction’s Antique Auction planned for Saturday, April 18th, online and live in the Woody auction hall located at 130 East 3rd Street in Douglass, starting at 9:30am Central Time. Nearly 350 quality and highly collectible lots will be offered without reserves.

Leading the lineup is an extraordinary three-piece punch set weighing nearly 8,000 grams of .925 sterling silver. The set, marked Juvento Lopez Reyes, features a beautiful, matched design between tray, 17½-inch diameter pedestal punch bowl and 13-inch-long ladle. It’s the largest sterling set Woody Auction has ever sold and is expected to change hands for $22,000-$25,000.

Collectors will also appreciate a fine assortment of Lalique France, along with beautiful Van Briggle art pottery, striking plated Amberina by New England Glass, elegant brides baskets, art glass, artwork, furniture, lamps, and primitives. The diversity and quality throughout this event offer something for every taste and collecting interest.

“At Woody Auction, we strive to curate sales that can be enjoyed by everyone—from seasoned collectors to first-time bidders—and this auction certainly delivers,” said Jason Woody, the president and owner of Woody Auction. “We hope everyone will join us at this event for an authentic public auction experience where every item sells to the highest bidder without reserve.”

After the punch set, the lot expected to generate the most buzz is a six-piece, solid sterling tea service marked Dominick and Haff, model #1072, sold by jeweler Chester Billings & Sons in New York. The set includes a hot water with stand and burner, coffee pot, tea pot, creamer, sugar and waste bowl, totaling 5530 grams. Each piece features a model number and jeweler’s mark, along with two-headed phoenix crest. The set carries a pre-sale estimate of $15,000-$17,500.

A solid, B318 sterling flatware set in the Royal Windsor pattern by Towle, patented 1935, should realize $7,500-$9,000. The total weight (sterling only) is 2598 grams and the set weighs 11.8 pounds. A flatware chest is included.

A plated amberina art glass water pitcher by New England, 8 ½ inches tall, is an exceptional example, boasting exceptional, well-defined ribs and flawless color. It retains the original New England Glass (NEGW) Amberina label and weighs 2.3 pounds. The estimate is $6,000-$8,000.

An incredible 128-piece white bone china dinnerware set by Wedgwood in the Columbia pattern (#W595), with hand-painted, colorful floral décor and griffin highlights, has an estimated shipping weight of 75 pounds and is estimated to bring $2,000-$4,000.

A bronze sculpture depicting two bloodhounds tangled with a log, signed by the French artist P.J. Meane (1810-1879), titled Chasse, should finish at $2,000-$3,000. The 10-inch-tall sculpture, with exceptional detail and fantastic patina, weighs 23.9 pounds and has a pre-sale estimate of $2,000-$3,000.

An unsigned, hand-painted KPM porcelain plaque with a scene showing two young women reading a note, mounted in an elaborate gilded gesso frame, is a must-see item with an estimate of $1,500-$3,000. The plaque, with an overall size of 12 ¾ inches by 10 ¼ inches, has an excellent KPM mark and outstanding detail. It weighs 8.5 pounds.

A leaded glass table lamp signed Handel, in the beautiful Apple Blossom design, is 24 inches in height and set on the original marked Handel three-light base. The lamp displays superb color and comes with the original Handel tag. It should illuminate the room for $1,500-$3,000.

A gorgeous Victorian brides basket depicting three figural cherubs holding the stand and set on an unmarked Wilcox silverplate frame, is expected to reach $1,200-$2,000. The pink satin, herringbone and mother of pearl art glass bowl has a green interior and gold enamel fern décor. It’s 12 ½ inches tall and weighs 6.3 pounds.

An art pottery figural vase by Van Briggle titled Water Nymph (also known as Spring), 20 inches tall, has an estimate of $1,250-$1,750. The vase has a beautiful Art Nouveau design and a Ming blue glaze. Truly an excellent example weighing 20.1 pounds, it should climb to $1,250-$1,750.

A single-light French cameo art glass desk lamp signed De Latte Nancy, 16 inches tall, having an ice blue ground with cameo carved and enamel scenic décor, electrified, is estimated at $750-$1,500.

In addition to live bidding in the Woody Auction hall, online bidding will be available through LiveAuctioneers.com. Bidders should register 48 hours in advance for online bidding. Click here for easy access to the auction and other Woody Auction events: www.liveauctioneers.com/woody-auction-llc. Phone and absentee bids will also be available.

Notably, Woody Auction will be unveiling its new bidding platform in June. “Folks will be able to bid directly with us instead of on LiveAuctioneers,” Mr. Woody said.

Previews will be held on Friday, April 17th, from 1-5pm Central Time; and Saturday, April 18th, from 8:30-9:30 am Central Time, in the Woody auction hall. There are no reserves and no buyer’s premium for those in attendance (when paying with cash or check). A sales tax of 8.5 percent will be collected from buyers present on auction day.

Absentee bids will require a written statement indicating the amount of the bid. The deadline is 12 o’clock noon on Thursday, April 16th. Absentee bids will be charged a buyer’s premium (BP) of 15 percent of the selling price + shipping (or 10 percent if paying by cash, ACH, or wire transfer).

Telephone bidding is available for lots with a low estimate of $600 or greater (low estimates can be found on LiveAuctioneers.com). Email your phone bid list to info@woodyauction.com by noon on Wednesday, April 15th. Include your name, address, primary phone number and backup phone number. You’ll be notified to confirm receipt of your bid list. The bp is the same as absentee bids.

As for area lodging, Woody Auction suggests the Comfort Inn in Augusta, Kan.: 316-260-3006 (mention Woody Auction for a single queen or king room rate of $99 plus tax when booking directly); Holiday Inn Express, Andover, Kan.: 316-733-8833; and the Hampton Inn, Derby, Kan.: 316-425-7900. All are located within a 15-20-minute drive of the Woody auction hall.

Woody Auction is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. To consign an item, an estate or collection, you may call (316) 747-2694; or, send an email to info@woodyauction.com.

To learn more about Woody Auction and the Antique Auction on Saturday, April 18th, online and live in the Woody auction hall located at 130 East 3rd Street in Douglass, Kansas starting at 9:30am Central Time, please visit www.woodyauction.com. Updates are posted frequently.

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Jason Woody
Woody Auction
+ + +1 316-747-2694
email us here

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