Library summer program set for June 21

Snakes, ventriloquy, and hula-hoops are just some of the items kids can try their hands at during the Carl and Mary Welhausen (CMW) Library as part of the 2023 Yoakum summer youth program.

“All of the programs are entertaining and definitely educational,” Library Director Gena Jiral said. “They have some kind of moral they are promoting as well so the kids are actually learning something and being entertained at the same time.”

The next family-fun event will be on June 21. An experienced ventriloquist and his trusty sidekicks will be kicking it off with “A Real Mad Hatter Production.”

“The ventriloquist comes straight out of College Station,” Jiral said. “He’s never been here before, so he’ll be new to coming to Yoakum. We met him at a performer’s showcase in Georgetown and he’s fantastic, I can’t wait for people to see his show.”

After that, on June 28, another talented performer takes center stage, this time with a plastic toy many of you likely remember from your childhoods. Corean Gonzales will showcase her intricate hula hooping skills.

“She’s a real Cirque Du Soleil performer. Everything she will do will be on the ground,” Jiral said.

Finally, returning to the summer youth program will be Texas Snakes. Texas Snakes is an educational and interesting program which showcases the different types of snakes found across the Lone Star State. During and after the show, audience members will have the chance to hold one of these beautiful reptiles and take pictures, so be sure to bring your camera!

“Everybody is so scared of snakes, but Texas Snakes will educate the public on the importance of snakes in the environment,” Jiral said.

The final run of Summer Youth Programs will be on July 12 and July 19. On the 12th, a unique group of Native Americans are performing at the Grand Theater and will educate the public on their heritage, while giving a special dance performance.

July 19 will see the “Strawbitty Yops Musical Group” and children can have a chance to make their own kind of music with unique instruments. There will be a drawing for prizes and a large outdoor petting zooJuly 19 will see the “Strawbitty Yops Musical Group” and children can have a chance to make their own kind of music with unique instruments. There will be a drawing for prizes and a large outdoor petting zoo

“The Stawbitty group plays their own instruments and allows kids to join along,” “They also talk to children about the importance of navigating your own emotion and that it is okay to be sad sometimes. That will be at 2 p.m. that day and afterwards, we’ll have a petting zoo.”

Outside of activities for the youth, the CMW Library is also starting its summer reading program. The program is divided into three categories from ages 3-8, 9-17 and adults over 18.