BOOKS
Decatur Book Fest offers toasts to literacy
You can share libations and some liquid conversation with top authors appearing at the AJC Decatur Book Festival as part of a new fund-raising effort being launched by the Labor Day weekend fest. Bidding is underway on eBay for drinks and hour-long chats with seven writers including Mary Kay Andrews, Joshilyn Jackson, Hal Needham and Clyde Edgerton. It’s a benefit for Decatur Education Foundation’s youth literacy efforts. Go to www.decatureducationfoundation.org for links to the auctions. HOWARD POUSNER

CLASSICAL MUSIC
Johns Creek Symphony’s season
The Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra, a professional part-time orchestra performing at various venues in North Fulton county, has announced its 2011-12 season, its fifth:

* “Masterworks!” Oct. 29. Featuring principal cellist Meghan McGuire performing Haydn’s Concerto in C Major.

* Christmas Gala & Holiday Pops Concert. Dec. 3. Guest soloists and choirs join the JCSO.

* “All Beethoven!” Feb. 25. Performing Beethoven’s Mass in C Major with with the 130-voice Michael O’Neal Singers.

* “An Evening with Oscar & Tony” April 14. Music from Broadway and Hollywood.

Tickets: $30 adults, $23.50 ages 55 and up, $16.50 students. Season tickets and group discounts available. Performances start at 8 p.m. Information: 678-748-5802, www.johnscreeksymphony.org. HOWARD POUSNER