Cloudy skies and the threat of rain couldnt keep literacy lovers away from the third annual Leap for Literacy, a fundraising event for Wee Books.

I think this is really a testimony to the passion of this organization, and the people who are involved in it, and the community who supports it, said Warren King, who emceed the event.

Wee Books Representative Jane Graves said the turnout this year seemed better than in previous years. We were pleased and delighted with the turnout this year, because of the weather, she said.

While final donations are still coming in, Graves estimates that the final number raised will be around $4,000.

I think this time we also saw more dressing up, she said. More attempts at creative costumes.

With Jan Whestone of Jans Family Daycare, Dawsonville Mayor James Grogan and Chamber of Commerce President Christie Haynes serving as judges, awards were presented to the following:

Best Leaping Team Dawson County High Schools Interact Club

Best Leaper Brian Mayes (He saw the ads about our event and just showed up, said Graves.)

Highest Sponsorship Robinson Elementary and Superintendent Keith Porter for Three Blind Mice (The team raised $750.)

Most Creative Leaper Brian Burke (Dr. Burke, a local optometrist, not only jumped into the lake, but continued swimming for some distance.)

Most Creative Team Dawson County High School for Kiss-ing Illiteracy Goodbye

I think the spirit of the event is phenomenal, Whetstone said. That one man, Mr. Mayes, he just appeared out of the blue and made a donation and jumped into the freezing cold. And then, Dr. Burke, how he swam ... I just think the word has gotten out about how great of an event it is.

It was Grogans first time witnessing the event. I really enjoyed it, he said. I was really shocked at the amount of participation we had. Im looking forward to next year. I can see it growing a lot.

And will the mayor be making the leap himself next year? Its not out of the realm of possibility.

If the moneys right, Ill jump, he said, laughing. So (people have) got to donate.

Wee Books next fundraising event will be the annual Barn Dance, held April 27. More information is forthcoming.