Denny Hamann is set to speak at the gallery’s Coffee With the Authors series on Thursday, Sept. 12 from 11 a.m. – 12 noon. Denny says, “Southern towns are brimming with stories and storytellers. The sleepy little textile mill town in central North Carolina, where I grew up, is no exception. I began writing short stories that chronicled some of my childhood recollections. Stories passed down by family elders led me to research my family history. This research inspired me to write my first novel, Cryin’s for Hungry Babies. I’m a member of the South Carolina Writers Association, NMB Writers, Surfside Writers, and a finalist in the 2023 Elizabeth Simpson Smith Short Story Contest.” He followed that with Cottonville Road and most recently, Cottonville Road II. In 1890s North Carolina, the daughter of a bootlegger defies the odds by parlaying a rundown bootleg joint into a sophisticated moonshine distilling empire with financial tentacles that reach far and wide. She becomes the wealthiest and most powerful woman in the state, but it comes at a price. Join us to hear Denny speak about the book and his writing experiences. Coffee, tea and breakfast treats will be served. This is a free event, but seating is limited, so the gallery asks that you call to reserve a spot. 910.575.5999.