By LUCIA BAIN
Hays Public Library
The Chinese Zodiac tells us that 2014 is the year of the horse. People born under this sign are supposed to be good communicators, sociable and motivated in their careers and personal lives.
They might also talk too much, exhibit a stubborn streak and struggle with patience. Whether or not these predictions hold true, I am confident that my first child, due in April, will be a blessing, a joy…and a handful.
By all accounts, both my husband and I were less-than-model children in our youth and I’m sure our parents will enjoy more than one good laugh at our expense in the coming years. Nevertheless, I am eagerly awaiting the birth of my son or daughter and all of the things that come along with it. On the cusp of my third trimester, I am sure that this baby is the beginning of a brand new adventure in my life – the adventure of a new life.
Amelia Earhart, one of Kansas’ most famous figures, certainly knew a thing or two about adventure. An aviatrix who famously disappeared in 1939 while attempting to circumnavigate the globe, Earhart set a number of flight records. She also set an example for women everywhere by showing them that men do not have a monopoly on courage or determination. On January 11, 1935, Amelia Earhart became the first person – man or woman – to fly solo from Honolulu, HI to Oakland, CA. To commemorate this daring feat by a daring Kansan, the Kansas Room will be showing a one hour A&E documentary about Amelia Earhart on the morning of Sat., Jan. 11 at 10 AM in the Schmidt Gallery. Coffee and donuts will be provided. Stop by to warm up and learn a little about Kansas’ own Amelia Earhart.
Later in January, the Kansas Room is hosting yet another line dancing class. If you’ve missed the other classes or if your new year’s resolution is to try something new, drop in for this beginners class on Tues., Jan. 21 at 6 PM. The class will be led by Vanessa North from the children’s department and will take place in the Trish Davies Room on the library’s second floor. The classes are fun, easy to follow and don’t require any prior experience. The only recommendation is that you wear comfortable shoes!
With January comes Kansas Day and with Kansas Day comes the 2nd Annual KS Day Photo Contest! No matter your age or your skill level, the KS Day Photo Contest is open to anyone who’s ever taken a photo in this great state. Please stop by the library for a copy of the contest rules and entrance forms or download the forms at http://www2.youseemore.com/hays/contentpages.asp?loc=61. Photo entries are due on January 18th. The reception and awards ceremony for the photo contest will take place on Kansas Day, Jan. 29 at 6 PM in the Kansas Room. All participants and photography enthusiasts are invited to attend.
It looks like we’re in for a frigid January, but if you’re willing to venture into the cold, be sure to stop by the library for a book, movie or program. Winter can be long and drab, and the library can help add some color to an otherwise dreary month.
You can contact me by calling 785-625-9014 or by emailing [email protected]. The Kansas Room is open from 9 AM to 4:30 PM on Mondays, from 9 AM to 6 PM Tuesday through Friday, and by request. The Kansas Room is located in the basement of the Hays Public Library.