Laredo Center for the Arts Reception

Poems, food, celebrity readers and war stories resonated around the Laredo Center for the Arts as a modest group braved the rain and interacted about Gerda W. Klein's experiences and how they mirrored the lives of many during the war. Mr. John Valls, who recently recieved a bronze star, spoke of opening the gates of a prison camp, capturing enemy soldiers, and escaping death without knowing how he did so. His stories of war and constant death were interspersed with more lighthearted moments as he recounted stealing Oskar Schindler's handkerchiefs and being sent to the infantry after he told his commander that he would not fly in a plane if he could not be the pilot. Mr. Valls also brought tangible memories through photos, magazines, awards and letters. The audience members asked him questions about his experience and applauded his bravery and his speaking ability. His session was followed by an open mic, with audience members reading their own poetry. Afterwards, part of the Celebrity Reader DVD was shown. Throughout the evening the crowd was able to munch on fruits and vegetables provided by RC Foodservice and Produce and drinks provided by Southern Distributing. Steve Gutierrez, who organized the event, also brought snacks, as well as entertainment.