At Honors and Authors Night
Michael Patrick Shiels, syndicated radio/television host and published author regaled an audience of some 50 guests during the Briggs Library Foundation eighth annual Honors and Authors Night Tuesday April 23 at the Emerald Golf Course, capturing his audience with life anecdotes amid timely messages wrapped in humor and motivation.
Culling excerpts from his book “Invite Yourself to the Party,” Shiels’ theme emphasized the positive results from being assertive in efforts to achieve objectives. While much of his 30 minutes was light with humor, the message was ever present behind the wit.
Locally, Shiels can be heard each morning from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. on WQTX 92.1 FM while appearing on FOX 47 TV from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m.
John Sirrine, right, and Michael Patrick Shiels wrap up the evening with a handshake following Shiels’ presentation at the eighth annual Honors and Authors Night as Bill Brewbaker looks on. Brewbaker completed arrangements for Shiels’ appearance.
Meanwhile, Foundation Chair John Sirrine spread some humor of his own while roasting honored guest of the evening, Ron Huard. He began by saying Huard was born in 1908, being 60 when he came to town with his engaging 28 year old wife. Sirrine went on to say how Huard’s varied endeavors since arriving in St. Johns in 1968 have left a trail of disastrous failures. While the roast drew a succession of laughs from the audience, Huard and his wife, Jeanette, were recognized as honorees of the evening and received a warm reception by those present.
Others appearing on the program were Sara Morrison, library director, and Police Chief Michael Madden. Ms Morrison explained how the library is adapting to accommodate a changing patronage. Madden, representing the library board of directors, cited comparative operating budgets of similar sized facilities in the state and emphasized that the budget of our library is 50 to 75 percent less than others, attributable primarily to present system of finances received from supporting government units.
The annual event is a fund raiser for the Library Foundation. It features each year a presentation by a Michigan Author and pays tribute to a person or group which reflects ongoing support to the Foundation’s goal of establishing a long term endowment to ensure future viability of the library.
Persons interested in learning more about the Foundation may contact Sirrine at 989 224-2853 or by email jsirrine@sirrineandassociates.com.