The Arts Downtown PR series (3rd Thursdays) continues from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 21 at four locations in downtown Park Rapids.
Author Jim Johnson shares his affection for the old Hubbard Prairie in his new book, Heyday – 20 Upstart Years on the Hubbard Prairie 1880-1900. He will talk about and sign his books from 5 to 5:30 and 6 to 6:30 p.m. at Beagle Books. Johnson heads a marketing and communications firm called Yellow Dog North in Park Rapids. He earned a Master of Arts in English and American Studies from the University of Iowa and attended the renowned Writers’ Workshop there. His writing background includes four books on early American culture and design. Johnson also is one of the people behind the Hubbard Prairie Sleigh Festival and will talk about a number of new events and attractions planned for the festival Sunday, Feb. 24.
Local musician Paul Albright will entertain from 5:30 to 6 and 6:30 to 7 p.m. at Necce’s Ristorante. He will play a variety of string instruments and sing a variety of familiar and new songs – country, folk and rock with Latin rhythms.
The fine piano at Bella Caffè attracts pianists. Arla Wright and Jodi Ziemann will play from 5 to 5:30 and 6 to 6:30 p.m., respectively. Wright says, “My 1914 grand piano has been in my home since 1972. I used to practice after my kids went to bed. They still remember these classical pieces and sweet old-fashioned songs I love. With my kids grown, I don’t often have listening ears when I play these favorites. I’m looking forward to sharing them with you.” Ziemann says, “Do what you love and share it”…picture books and playing piano definitely land in that basket for me. I’ll be sharing a favorite Leo Lionni story about what helps us ‘survive & thrive’ our winters and some favorite, gentle piano pieces that will include some originals.”
At The Good Life Cafe, a band called One Night Only will entertain with jazz infused music from across a variety of genres. Al Marty will play bass, Mike Harrison will play lead guitar and Craig Braunschweig will play rhythm guitar from 5:30 to 6 and 6:30 to 7 p.m.
The Park Rapids Lakes Area Arts Council is sponsoring this month’s 3rd Thursday events.
r2arts.org 