On Saturday, Aug. 14, 23 Seagrove-area potteries, a jeweler and a soapmaker will sell specially signed artworks as a fundraiser for American writer Greg Mortenson, author of “Three Cups of Tea” and “Stones into Schools,” which chronicle his efforts to combat terrorism by educating impoverished and illiterate children in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Mortenson’s mission earned him a Nobel Peace Prize nomination in 2009. His efforts have been recognized by the U.S. military, who have invited him to the Pentagon in an advisory capacity, and are supported by donations from thousands of individual servicemen.

A small purchase at the “Seagrove Potters for Peace” event makes a big difference.

“Buy one vessel, and you have provided a school uniform for one child, two vessels and you have paid a child’s school expenses for an entire year,” says a spokesman.

More than 900 cups, tumblers, teabowls, pendants and soaps have been donated for this sale. Copies of Mortenson’s books will also be available for sale at some potteries. Last year’s first “Seagrove Potters for Peace” event was termed “an overwhelming success,” selling out before noon. This year’s event features twice as many participants and many more vessels.

There will be no early sales, but any remaining items can be ordered by e-mail or telephone on Tuesday, Aug. 17. All items will be for sale at the individual potteries. A list of participating potters and more information can be found at www.seagrovepottersforpeace.com.

Free Seagrove area maps can be requested at www.discoverseagrove.com.

“It’s easy to feel helpless, and hopeless, about the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, with no end in sight and no clear solution to combating terrorism,” says a spokesman. “Educating children in these countries provides an alternative to recruitment by terrorist organizations, dilutes the power of religious extremists and creates hope for a better future.

“You can help Greg Mortenson lay the foundations for this long-term solution to terrorism by attending the “Seagrove Potters for Peace” fundraiser, buying his books and sharing them with others, donating to Central Asia Institute (www.ikat.org), or by organizing a “Pennies for Peace” campaign at your local school or church (www.penniesforpeace.org).”

The Randolph Friends of the Library will hold a community discussion about Afghanistan and Mortenson’s work on Tuesday, Aug. 17, at 7 p.m., at the Randolph Arts Guild, 123 Sunset Ave., downtown Asheboro. The discussion will be led by Dr. Jeff Jones, associate professor of Russian and world history at UNC Greensboro. All ages are welcome. Copies of Mortenson’s books and a variety of pottery vessels will be for sale. Change will be collected for “Pennies for Peace.” Refreshments will be served.