“Do not fear going forward slowly; fear only to stand still.” — Chinese Proverb

Every summer, the Dyer Library Children’s Room joins libraries around the country in offering thoughtful and meaningful summer reading programs. These programs provide young people and their families the necessary tools to ensure year-long learning success and cultivate a love of reading.

Current research points out that increased reading when school is out reduces summer learning loss. At the Dyer Library, the staff encourages, supports and is dedicated to the literary needs of the community.

Children may register for the Summer Reading Program as soon as school is out. This year’s national theme is “Fizz Boom Read.”

The outdoor garden space will also be used this summer to conduct sunflower experiments. The science program is free for children and families, and will take place on Wednesday, June 25 from 11 a.m. to noon.

For more information and a complete and detailed list of summer events for children, go to www.dyerlibrarysacomusuem.org.

The Dyer Library and Saco Museum also has programs, activities and materials for teens and adults of all ages, and will host its annual Colossal Yard Sale later this month. Folks have been waiting for this amazing opportunity to stock up on reading for the summer and beyond, as well as many other finds ”“ available at bargain prices. The sale is one of the library’s biggest annual fundraisers, and it will take place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 28, coinciding with the Sidewalk Art Festival in Saco.

For general information, call 283-3861 or go to the website.

We are excited to welcome a new business that is enhancing Main Street in Saco. I’m pleased to announce the opening of Nabos Apparel. Sue Smith, proprietor, launched the business with unshakable resolve and hope in the future of our city. I want to express my hope for her success.

Father’s Day is Sunday, June 15, and it’s a good opportunity to express your gratitude to your father in word and deed.

It is unfair to take stock in the idea that fathers are not needed. Due to the rate of divorce and the absence of men in the home, some people in our society think of fathers as unnecessary.

Do fathers really matter? The answer is yes.

The role of being a dad is the greatest challenge and the highest reward a man can have. A dad is needed to make a family whole. A dad is needed to discipline firmly and fairly while loving relentlessly. A dad is needed to tell you he loves you and is proud of you. A dad is needed to teach that respect must be earned. There are many more reasons that a dad is needed, and this Father’s Day, remember to tell your dad why you need him.

— Zaffie Hadiaris of Saco is the host of “Zaffie,” a weekly television talk show on Channel 3 Biddeford public access. It can also be seen at biddefordmaine.org. Contact Hadiaris at zhadiaris@hotmail.com.