The popularity of Sandy's First Friday activities is increasing with the appearance of three published writers in the library's coffee café.

Also a part of the downtown celebration is an exhibit of the best work of watercolor artist Carrie Wilcox, on display in the Sandy Area Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center.

An increased number of nearly three dozen businesses on the boulevards between Bluff and Ten Eyck roads will be open from 5-8 p.m. Friday, July 6, for the promotion sponsored and organized by Sandy Main Street.

Something for everyone

Participating businesses are offering special prices, giveaways, food and wine tasting and entertainment to give local residents another reason to find out what local merchants have to offer.

Some businesses are changing their offerings, while there also are quite a few new entries to the event which is enjoying growing popularity.

In addition to the many restaurants around town, other businesses are making special offers; having in-store sales; hanging art exhibits; playing games; featuring tastings of wine, beer, food and chocolate; offering an open mic; scheduling prize drawings and entertainment.

Small sidewalk signs will identify each of the participating businesses.

Residents may go to City Hall, 39250 Pioneer Blvd., or visit the Sandy Main Street website to get a list of all the events and participating businesses. For information, visit sandymainstreet.com.

And if a child's presence is a problem for the venue chosen, babysitting service is available from 5-9 p.m. for children potty trained to age 11. The first 10 (limit) should call Maria at 503-793-8897.

Library coffee cafe

Anyone who has traveled to Europe knows what a coffee house or café looks and feels like.

The ambience of a European cafe is recreated with small tables, colorful tablecloths, flowers on each table, art hanging on the walls and sometimes an author will visit and read from his or her writings.

This month is special, according to event organizer Katie Murphy, because she has booked from 6-8 p.m. three authors who will read from their published works. (See separate story on the authors).

Library visitors are invited to sit at a café table, enjoy free snacks and beverages and listen to the authors offer their creative writing.

All library services will be available until 8 p.m. Friday, July 6, at the library, 38980 Proctor Blvd.