Bradbury-Themed Fundraiser Held for Pomona Library

Joe Mantegna and Liz Torres arrive at fundraiser.

Joe Mantegna and Liz Torres arrive at fundraiser. Photos by John King Tarpinian.

By John King Tarpinian: Today was the fundraiser for the Pomona, CA Library in the name of Ray Bradbury. The event consisted of a meet and greet for the VIP guests (paying $100 per person) before the event. Joe Mantegna and Liz Torres were present, two actors in the film The Wonderful Ice Cream Suit.

Stuart Gordon, who directed the movie for Ray Bradbury was unable to attend. They decided to have one more dress rehearsal before previews of his new stage play, ReAnimator, the Musical.  Also Edward James Olmos’ daughter was coming into town, so he had a scheduling conflict.

After the screening of the movie Joe and Liz gladly signed programs and took pictures with people in attendance.

Ray believed in education through libraries and would come running whenever a library was in trouble.  I was glad to have been invited to participate. My little contribution was bringing 100 different editions of Ray’s works for display. Saving libraries and keeping Ray’s works alive is worth the effort.