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Cazenovia teacher’s novel tops charts, community events highlight summer in CNY
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Cazenovia teacher’s novel tops charts, community events highlight summer in CNY

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    AI assisted, human edited local reporting. How this story was produced · Corrections

    In this story

      Cazenovia teacher’s novel tops charts, community events highlight summer in CNY

      Cazenovia High School English teacher Thomas Murlin’s debut novel, “Valedictorian: An Origin Story,” has topped Amazon’s new release chart. Meanwhile, local events like the Outhouse Challenge are set to engage the community this summer.

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      Local author draws attention

      Cazenovia High School English teacher Thomas Murlin has made headlines with his debut novel, “Valedictorian: An Origin Story.” Released on June 1, the book has captured the attention of readers, holding the #1 spot on Amazon’s Top New Release in Young Adult Literary Fiction for 12 consecutive days. This coming-of-age story features a unique superhero twist, appealing to readers aged 12 and up.

      Thomas Murlin at a book signing event for his debut novel.
      Thomas Murlin at a book signing event for his debut novel.

      Upcoming community events

      In addition to literary achievements, the Cazenovia Preservation Foundation is hosting a Walk ‘n Talk on July 11, focusing on native plants and backyard gardening. This event aims to educate participants on enhancing their landscapes’ beauty and ecological value. The series is part of a broader initiative to promote environmental stewardship in Central New York.

      Outhouse Challenge benefits local pantry

      Another engaging community event is the annual Outhouse Challenge, taking place throughout July at the Baldwinsville library. This unique drive encourages residents to donate essential items that cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits, such as paper products and personal care items. The initiative aims to support the Baldwinsville Food Pantry and raise awareness about the needs of local families.

      The Outhouse Challenge at Baldwinsville library encourages donations for the local food pantry.
      The Outhouse Challenge at Baldwinsville library encourages donations for the local food pantry.

      By The Numbers

      • 12 days, duration Murlin’s novel held the #1 spot on Amazon’s new release chart (Eagle News).
      • July 11, date of the upcoming Walk ‘n Talk event (Eagle News).
      • Throughout July, duration of the Outhouse Challenge at Baldwinsville library (Eagle News).

      Looking ahead

      As summer unfolds in Central New York, these events and achievements highlight the local community spirit. Residents are encouraged to participate in local initiatives that not only foster creativity and education but also support those in need.

      📷 Wikimedia / Wikipedia , Cazenovia, New York , CC BY-SA 4.0 / Public Domain

      Sources

      1. Eagle News, Cazenovia teacher publishes first novel and community events.

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      Staff Reporter

      Matt Keenan

      Reports for CNY Signal across Central New York. This story falls outside this reporter's named beat, so no subject specialty is claimed for it.


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