State government: Sebelius begins plans for inaugural celebration

January events across the state will celebrate Kathleen Sebelius’ inauguration as Kansas governor.

Transition officials announced Monday that planning had begun for the inauguration. A schedule hasn’t been unveiled, but Sebelius’ staff said events will take place Jan. 10 and 11 in Garden City, Hays, Wichita, Salina, Pittsburg and Kansas City. A “Kansas Family Festival” will be Jan. 12 in Topeka, followed by the Jan. 13 inauguration.

Sebelius spokeswoman Nicole Corcoran-Basso said the regional celebrations “won’t be the same as the inaugural, but she wanted to go back to where we had the support in the first place. We feel it’s important not everything be based in Topeka.”

Event officials were also named Monday, including Lawrence attorney Dan Watkins as the inaugural finance director and treasurer. Sharon Rose of Lawrence was named assistant inaugural treasurer.

Funding for the inaugural events will come from private donors.

Community: Holiday Market planned

The Lawrence Farmer’s Market will offer its annual Holiday Market from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 14.

Vendors will provide a homegrown and homemade crafts and culinary treats during the market at the Knights of Columbus, 2206 E. 23rd St.

Santa Claus will also be available to visit with children, and several food vendors will serve breakfast and lunch.

Art: Jayhawks on Parade deadline approaches

The deadline to submit proposals for Jayhawks on Parade is Monday.

The art-icon event will put larger-than-life fiberglass Jayhawks decorated by local artists on the streets of Lawrence.

The sculptures, sponsored by area businesses and individuals, will be on display from March through October 2003.

At the end of the event, the Jayhawks will be donated to local nonprofit organizations, who can sell them to raise money for their cause.

Submission packets are available online at www.jayhawksonparade.com or by calling 865-4411.

Selected artists will be notified by Jan. 1, and the fiberglass Jayhawks will arrive Feb. 1. Decorated sculptures must be returned by March 1. Artists will receive a $1,000 stipend.