Berne Library Notes for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

The Friends are meeting on March 1 at 7 p.m. to firm up the finishing touches for this year’s photo contest. A reception for the photo contest kicks off on Saturday, March 4, at 10 a.m. Their reception itinerary includes awards, refreshments and a message that should be of interest to those keen on capturing the world we live in through the camera lens.

Two important elements of the Friends photo contest are Agnes Zellin and Paul Tick. The couple graciously travels to Berne every January to view and judge the entries. They also include words of encouragement and helpful suggestions to all the photographers.

Recently, Agnes and Paul embarked on a project involving a talented young artist whose life was cut short. A rare form of cancer took photographer and filmmaker Brendan Fahy Bequette’s life in 2022. He was 25.

When in the throes of grief, one can spiral into the abyss of sadness or choose to celebrate a loved one’s life. Brendan’s parents chose to honor and celebrate through the eyes of their son. That is, by way of the camera lens.

Familiar with the 2015 book of photographs compiled from the work of Agnes and Paul, while living in the New York City area in the 1970s and ’80s, Brendan’s parents, at their son’s wake, approached Agnes and Paul with a request: “Would they be willing to build a book of Brendan’s photos from the thousands Brendan shot in the last 18 months of his life?”

The result is a compilation of nearly 40 photos curated and produced by Mark Joseph Kelly, Agnes Zellin, and Paul Tick. “The Photographs of Brendan Fahy Bequette,” the book, shares Brendan’s legacy. 

“Sales of the book benefit programs that nurture artistic talent in all forms and disciplines.” Brendan’s book will be available directly for purchase at the Friends photo contest reception. Go to BFBFUND.com to learn more.

Upcoming events

Now for a brief rundown of happenings on the fun horizon:

— Feb. 25, at 2 p.m.: Pokemon Club. Come one, come all and let the trading begin;

— Feb. 27, at 6:30 p.m.: Adult Craft Night where making stuff is what the cool kids are doing. Get your creative juices flowing at Adult Craft Night. You’ll be making a Salt Shaker Snowperson. There’s a $3 supply fee and two open spots if you want to sign up; and

— Feb. 28 Story Time, at 10:30 a.m.: You can be happy or sad. Angry or calm. Hilarious or serious. What’s the opposite of party pooper? Why it’s fun-maker of course! That’s what’s in store at Opposites Story Time. Stories, movement, and crafts all rolled up in one heaping pile of fun.

Mystery word

If you’re wondering about the Word of the Month Club’s March word, the club members are still pondering C.H.A.O.S. solutions. That’s “Can’t Have Anyone Over Syndrome” in case you missed the last memo. See you on the trail.

Director’s note

Pair up with your spelling-bee partner for the Hilltown Spelling Bee. Adults can pair up with your favorite teen or teams of adults will complete on March 15.