By TERRI RITTER
Public Relations Coordinator, North Webster Public Library

North Webster Public Library news and events this week:

Though we often fear the sting of a bee, these hard-working creatures are responsible for pollinating 80 percent of flowering crops in the United States, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. That’s about one-third of what we eat. Get the buzz on bees from local beekeeper Shannon Johnson when she presents her program on honey bees at 3 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 3.

Johnson has been keeping bees as a hobby for nine years, and she will share her extensive knowledge about bees, beekeeping and ways to use honey. She will also provide samples of honey to taste. The program is free and open to the public, so come and enjoy a sweet time.

For the rest of us, being busy as a bee can wear us down. Learn to relax by signing up for the eight week T’ai Chi class series that will be held 3 p.m. until 4 p.m. every Wednesday between Aug. 12 and Sept. 30. An ancient Chinese tradition, T’ai Chi is a graceful form of exercise that uses slow, flowing movements and precise breathing to strengthen the mind and body. The cost is $50 for the entire eight week series taught by Leah Gamble. Advance registration and pre-payment are required and are currently being accepted at the Circulation Desk. Class size will be limited, so don’t delay in signing up.

If you prefer to commune with nature while getting your exercise, then join the North Webster Hiking Club on its Thursday, Aug. 6, hike. The group will meet in the library parking lot at 5:30 p.m. and travel by carpool to Winona Lake to hike the trails through the old Chicago boys camp. It’s a fun way to get some exercise, enjoy nature, and meet new friends.

Tickets are still available for the library’s ‘Way Out West Mystery Dinner’ at 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8. Have fun playing a role and trying to figure out who the villain is. Ticket packets cost $15 per person and include your character assignment, clues, dinner, and the fun of playing the game. Participants are asked to dress in western attire and remain in character throughout the evening. If interested in solving murder on the range, see adult services director Beth Smith for tickets.

Other events at the library include the monthly guided meditation class at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5; make-and-take card class, 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 6; and teen movie time 4:30 p.m., also  Thursday, Aug. 6.

We continually update our book collection with new arrivals each month including the latest releases and bestselling titles. Stop in and browse our shelves. You will be sure find something new.