Local writer Saalman “WILL READ FOR FOOD” at VUJC to benefit food bank

JASPER, Indiana – Herald humor columnist Scott Saalman “Will Read For Food” at Vincennes University Jasper Campus (VUJC) on Tuesday, Oct. 18., to benefit the Dubois County Food Bank.

Saalman, a Jasper resident, will read a few essays that span his 20-plus-year writing career. Joining him will be local musicians Ray Major and Kris Lasher, who will provide musical accompaniment on two essays. The musicians will also perform a duet.

“We have a couple of fun pieces worked up. Kris’ voice and Ray’s guitar add a whole new dimension to the pieces,” says Saalman.

Vietnam War Veteran Ed Walston will also participate, reading a short personal memoir from his battle experiences in Vietnam. Walston is a retired Forest Park High School English teacher. He teaches a business communication class at the college.

“The 500 words Ed will read says more than all my columns strung together,” says Saalman. “I’m grateful to Ed for agreeing to join us, as well as for serving our country all those years ago.”

The “Will Read For Food” public readings will be from noon to 1 p.m., and one from 6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. The events will be in VUJC’s lecture hall.

Besides being published in the Herald, Saalman has had fiction and non-fiction accepted in various magazines, newspapers and online sites. Two of his essays have appeared in the anthologies, “Home Again: Essays and Memoirs from Indiana,” and “This I Believe: On Love.”

Saalman is Director, Employee Communications, for Kimball International. He is a regular Wednesday night volunteer at the food bank.

“The food bank provides a wonderful service for area people in need,” says Saalman. “I started volunteering two holiday season ago and keep going back. We’re always looking for volunteers.”

Admission for either event is a canned good or monetary donation to the local food bank. Boxes will be onsite at the event for the canned goods.

“I promise that you will laugh—at least once. If not, I’ll return your canned peas,” Saalman says.