Jim Adams and his Mikey Puppet - Photo: Dan Wilson

(Best Syndication News) Phelan CA - The San Bernardino Phelan branch library really gave the local school children a treat on Saturday by providing the ventriloquist Jim Adams for entertainment (see the photos below). As part of the Summer Reading Program, Jim brought various Puppets (sometimes called Dummies, Dolls or Figures) including Max (a Macaw Parrot), Wally, Mikey and the Professor.

Adams has entertained audiences at Disneyland for 12 years, appearing as “Pecos Bill” in the legendary “Golden Horseshoe Review”. He also appeared in television commercials and several national tours promoting classic Disney films. Appreciated by the parents and the kids, his show at the Phelan Library was professional and funny.

The theme was clear: Kids watch too much television today and need to read more books. Adams mentioned the TV show “Spongebob Square Pants” and illustrated how reading books can also bring characters to life. He and his Parrot, named Max, had a long conversation about that.

The Professor puppet said that books are windows into the author’s thoughts. He asked Jim what was on the shelves of the library. Jim answered “books”. “Wrong” the professor said. “Those are people”.

Wally, the hobo clown, was illiterate until he met the professor. A whole new world opened up after the professor taught him to read.

Mikey, a typical kid, hit home with many of the children. Mikey didn’t see the point in reading until Jim explained to him the benefits. Jim brought the point home with humor, not a stern preachy approach. Reading may be hard at first but it will become easier and fun.

Jim Adams Entertainment

Summer Reading Program

How Sweet It Is

There will be an unveiling of the new library in Phelan next month (see map below). It was announced at the Summer Reading Program meeting on Sunday that a “How Sweet It Is” party will be held at the new library on August 20th (7pm - 9pm), just two days before it opens.

There will be chocolate and wine tasting, plus other treats, according to Assistant Librarian Elizabeth Briggs. The tickets are $15 per person and the proceeds will go towards new books and material for the library. Only 200 tickets will be sold.

The Phelan branch will close on July 27th and the new library will open August 22nd. The book drop-off will still be open in front of the Serrano High School library.

How Sweet It is Gala Ticket Form

By Dan Wilson

Below - Jim and the Professor

Below - Jim and Mikey

Below - Jim and Max

Below - Jim and Wally

Below - The audience

Below - Location of New Library 9898 Clovis Avenue Phelan

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