YOUR AD HERE »

Vail Library kicks off summer reading

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
ALL |

VAIL, Colorado – The Vail Public Library will kick off its summer reading program on Tuesday from 1 to 3 p.m. in the library community room. Parents can register children at the door to receive a Summer Reading Packet that includes, among other things, a reading log for documenting the time their child spends reading in order to win prizes. The kick-off will feature a performance by comedy ventriloquist Wayne Francis and his puppet, Wingnut the Pilot. The act is entitled “Learn and Fly High.”

“Our show includes ‘life-sized’ puppets, original comedy music, and lots of audience participation,” Francis said. “My characters are life-sized, soft sculpture, one-of-a-kind characters built right here in a studio in Denver. I use Wingnut the pilot, Serina the mermaid, Rosie the circus lady, and many others.”

The summer reading program’s theme is ‘Be Creative @ Your Library’ and Annie Sinton, of the Vail Public Library, thinks Francis’ act will be a good fit for the theme.



“Mr. Francis has both the ability to do a double voice and the ability to play the washboard and sing and dance, all while manipulating a life size character,” Sinton said. “He is very creative. He also has a message.”

Francis’ program encourages excellence through school participation and self motivation.

Support Local Journalism



“‘Learn and Fly High’ examines the history of flight and the value of homework in bringing your ‘big idea’ to life,” Sinton said. “I think summertime, when children are away from school, is the best time to remind them about these values that can help them when they are back in school. Always read, and read a lot, is an unswerving message from the library to the children during our summer reading program.”

Francis is a veteran puppeteer and ventriloquist of 25 years. He has entertained in venues from cruise ships to colleges with a very clean adult act.

“My family show, which I present in libraries, elementary schools and festivals, includes a wacky take on the history of flight and how the Wright brothers used math, science, and homework to make their ‘big idea’ come true.”

The kick-off is the first of the summer reading programs for first through fifth grade students. They will occur every Tuesday (except July 7) at Vail Public Library through Aug. 4, from 1 to 3 p.m., in the community room. Children may register any Tuesday. Parents are welcome. The event is free. For more information, call 970-479-2179.

What: Kickoff event for summer reading program

Where: Vail Library

When: 1 to 3 p.m., Tuesday

Cost: Free

More information: Call 970-479-2179.


Support Local Journalism