July at the Fosston Community Library Arts Center

Henry James once said that the two most beautiful words in the English language were “summer afternoon.” I'm inclined to agree, but would maybe expand the phrase to “summer afternoon with a good book on the deck.” July is here so enjoy those summer afternoons while you can.

While you are at the Fosston Library picking out that book to enjoy on the deck, be sure to take a look at the new exhibit in the Sorenson Gallery. Fosston native Bonnie Josephson Lundorff is an accomplished fiber artist whose talents range from quilting to felting and applique. She has owned Willow Wood Market in Bemidji for over 19 years. Her works will be on display through July 25. While I'm not exactly sure what will be included, I'm confident it will be beautiful.

The summer reading program “Read for the Win” for ages 0-18 continues throughout the month. If your child hasn't yet signed up, it's not too late and if your baby is not quite reading yet, you get to read to your child and it still counts. Read 15 books or 15 hours and have a chance at some great prizes. Teens can turn in their reading sheets for every five books read and earn a book bag and a chance to win a tablet PC.

Special summer reading program events continue every Wednesday at 2 p.m. On July 13, the Fosston High School Robotics team will do a demonstration, and on July 20, there will be a presentation by local 4-H members. Originally scheduled for June 29, this has been postponed until after the fair. On July 27, participants will have a chance to play “Name that Book” and on August 3, there will be an Olympic Torch craft, which I don't think will involve any real flames. At all these events there will be a door prize drawing for a DG Blizzard compliments of the Fosston Dairy Queen.

Coming up on Tuesday, July 19, there will be a special craft event for the grownups – Stamping with Mary. Here's your chance to make your own greeting cards. The event is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. I don't know if there will be any door prizes at this one.

Unfortunately, I do have some bad news – the summer theater production has been canceled due to a shortage of actors. I'm disappointed and I'm sure many of the rest of you are too. Watch for a holiday show later in the fall and for now, enjoy those summer afternoons.