By Jay Lawson
The Raquette Lake Public Library will host a fun-filled event for all ages on Saturday, July 4, from 7:30 to 9 p.m., with proceeds to benefit the library and its recent lighting upgrades.
This Fourth of July celebration and fundraiser will feature an ice cream social and the live acoustic music of Chris Bates.
There will also be face painting and festive temporary tattoos for children and others.
Multiple raffles will also be held with tickets available on site.
The event will take place both indoors at the library and outside on the neighboring grounds.
Among the raffle prizes available will be Adirondack chairs, quilts, artwork, and a 50/50 cash prize.
All are invited to attend.
Professional portraits will also be available by award winning Adirondack photographer Carolynn McCann. Each photo session is $15 with all proceeds to benefit the library.
Portrait appointments can be scheduled for individual and family portraits by calling the Raquette Lake Library 315-354-4005.
The event is being organized by Kyle Cappelletti, a junior at Jamesville-Dewitt High School near Syracuse.
Kyle said he has a special attraction to Raquette Lake and an appreciation for its community library.
“My family has had a place in Raquette Lake for many years, and I am the third generation to go there,” he said.
“We stay at the lake for most of the summer, and I work at the Raquette Lake Supply. My family, friends, and I use the library there on a regular basis.”
Kyle said he especially appreciates the dedication of librarian Carolynn Dufft McCann.
“[She] has been so helpful to me even when I am at home during the school year. She and the library are wonderful resources for me,” he said.
Kyle said he was inspired to help the cause of raising money to fund recent improvements to the library building.
The library has received renovations that include installation of new ceiling fans and lights.
“I decided that I would host a fundraiser to help the library with these costs,” he said.