Veteran Hollywood television/film writer and noted Atlanta author Jeffrey Stepakoff was honored at the Georgia State Capitol Thursday, Feb. 10 when the legislature passed a resolution officially declaring Feb. 10 "Toccoa-Stephens County (T-SC) Fireworks Over Toccoa Day." Stepakoff’s novel, Fireworks Over Toccoa (St. Martin’s Press, April 2010), was published last year to national critical acclaim and is the inspiration behind the day-long celebration coordinated by T-SC Chamber of Commerce. Gov. Nathan Deal, Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle, executive branch officers, and legislators received signed copies of the novel, met the author, and attended photo sessions.
"A Fireworks over Toccoa Day inspired by this amazing book is worthy of recognition by this body," the House resolution introduced by Rep. Michael Harden of Toccoa read. State Sen. Jim Butterworth of Clarkesville introduced a similar resolution the Senate.
Coordinated by the Toccoa-Stephens County Chamber of Commerce, the day’s events featured a legislative orientation and briefing, proclamations, lunch, and photo sessions with state officials. Signed copies of Stepakoff’s "Fireworks over Toccoa" were placed on legislators’ chamber desks in both the House and Senate, compliments of publisher St. Martin’s Press. More than 150 political and business leaders, residents and students from Toccoa and Stephens County participated in the celebration.
"I am so flattered that my work is being recognized by our state legislators," said Stepakoff. "It is truly an honor."
Stepakoff, a veteran Hollywood TV and film writer of such well-known series as "The Wonder Years," "Sisters," Disney’s "Tarzan, "Major Dad," and "Dawson’s Creek" (where he was also co-executive producer), returned to his hometown roots several years ago and is making a name for himself as the master of the "new love story."
Stepakoff’s Fireworks over Toccoa is a coming-of-age love story set in the small North Georgia town of Toccoa during World War II. The novel has been translated into four languages and will be released in paperback on March 15.
His latest book, The Orchard, is also a love story that focuses on two prevalent themes in today’s society: organic foods and sustainability. The novel is set in the small Georgia town of Ellijay and is slated for publication July 5, 2011.
