Water is vital not only as the basic fluid on which life depends but also as a shaper of culture, a source of artistic inspiration and a basis of economic development. This traveling exhibit from the Smithsonian Institution visits Alcona County at the Harrisville branch of the Alcona County Library, cosponsored by Inspiration Alcona.

The opening reception, featuring local foods served by the Friends of the Library with the support of Inspiration Alcona's Farm to Fork Alcona committee, begins at 6 p.m. November 16.

A number of other events follow during the exhibit. Stop by the library for a complete list.

The Smithsonian traveling exhibit, Water|Ways, must move on to another Michigan location. There will be a closing reception to say farewell to this exciting exhibit. But before it goes, drop by the Alcona County Library's Harrisville branch or visit its website to see all the events happening during the time of the exhibit.

Alcona County Library and Inspiration Alcona once again host the opening event of the Thunder Bay International Film Festival, organized by the Friends of Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The show includes some of the most impressive ocean and Great Lakes films from around the world. This year the first "On the Road" showing comes to the auditorium of Alcona Community Schools at 5:30 Wednesday, January 23. Tickets will be available at all library branches.

The festival continues at the NOAA site in Alpena Friday through Sunday, January 25-27.

Inspiration Alcona's annual summer art lessons will begin two weeks after school ends and extend for approximately five weeks, with two sessions per week. All classes will be at the public room in the EMT station on M-72 just south of Lincoln.