Madison Mercantile Madison, Minnesota 2:00 p.m. – Free poetry-writing class 6:00 p.m. – Open mic poetry readings The afternoon poetry writing class will be taught by

• Literary artist Athena Kildegaard of Morris, Minnesota, author of six books of poetry. Her poems have been nominated for the Puschart Prize, read on Writer’s Almanac and set to music.
• Writer and new media producer Brendan Stermer of Montevideo, Minnesota.

The evening open mic poetry reading will give students of the class a chance to read what they have written, and others will be encouraged to read their favorite Bly poem or something they have written. Wine and cheese will be served. For more information and updates about these and other events go to the Madison Mercantile Facebook page or call 320-361-0006. Sunday, July 31, 2022 Lac qui Parle County Museum Madison, Minnesota 1:30 p.m. Premiere of Robert and Carol Bly, Literary Legends of the Prairie, a video documentary by Rachel Croatt and Joyce Meyer The Lac qui Parle County Historical Society will premiere this documentary featuring a unique and interesting look at Robert Bly’s life growing up in Lac qui Parle County, surrounded by the beautiful prairie, his marriage to Carol McLean in 1955, their life on the farm, and Robert and Carol’s involvement with the Madison community. Rachel Croatt wrote the narrative which includes information gained from interviews of family, friends, and former classmates of the couple. Joyce Meyer completed the audio and video production. The film will include never-before-shared photos and stories of the Blys and their children. Two of the Bly children will also be at the event to share more information about growing up on the prairies of Lac qui Parle. A BBQ supper will be served after the program; freewill donations will be used to help preserve the Robert Bly Study. For more information and updates about this event go to the Lac qui Parle County Historical Society Facebook page or call the Museum office at 320-598-7678.