Johnson County, Kansas, Homepage - Feature Stories for January 2007

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	JANUARY - 2007 Two New Theater Classes offered for Youth Beginning Jan. 20 Children can get an introduction to the theater through two new classes offered in late January by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. The classes are: Acting It Out for ages six to eight, and Basic Drama for ages nine to 14. Both classes will take place at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park, on Saturdays beginning Jan. 20. The last session of both programs will include a short program for parents. Search for the keyword "theater" to find these programs in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. For ages six to eight, Acting It Out will include games and exercises meant to increase self-esteem and awareness, as well as introduce basic gestures and theater skills. For ages nine to 14, Basic Drama will provide instruction in basic theater skills of movement, voice, diction, improvisation, and script readings. The goal is to improve participants' self esteem and make them more comfortable speaking in front of a group. The cost for either program for four 60-minute sessions is $40 per person for Johnson County residents or $44 per person for nonresidents. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359 VOICE or (913) 831-3342 TDD. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District’s website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Tasty Treats Program Offered for Ages 3-6 on Jan. 22-26 Young children can create and enjoy a few healthy snacks through a program being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. The program is called Tasty Treats and is for ages three through six. Search for the keyword "food" to find this program in the JCPRD’s Activities Catalog and online listings. This program is being offered at four times and locations between Jan. 22 and 26. The first class will take place starting at 10 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 22, at the Overland Park Community Center, 6300 W. 87th St., Overland Park. Another program will take place starting at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 24, at the Tomahawk Recreation Complex, 17501 Midland Drive, Shawnee. Another will take place beginning at 11:45 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 25 at the Athletic Training Center (ATC), 9301 W. 73rd St., Merriam. The final program will take place beginning at 1 p.m. of Friday, Dec. 26, at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. The cost for one 60-minute session is $10 per person for Johnson County residents or $11 per person for nonresidents. The Jan. 25 class at the ATC has a companion class at the same place and time called Mom's Health Break. This program is a yoga class for ages 18 and older of all ability levels. The program is designed to help lower stress, improve circulation, flexibility and coordination. The cost for one 60-minute session is $5 per person for Johnson County residents or $6 per participant for nonresidents. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359 VOICE or (913) 831-3342 TDD. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Home Buyers Seminar Offered for Adults on Jan. 23 First-time home buyers, as well as those who have not bought or sold a home in some time can benefit from a seminar being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. This program is called Home Buyers Seminar, is for ages 16 and older, and is presented by Carol Buczek of ReMax. Participants will learn how to determine how much home they can afford, which loan program is right for them, and how to shop for a home and make sure their best interests are protected. Search for the keyword "finance" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This program is offered at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 23, at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. The cost for one 90-minute session is $18 for Johnson County residents or $20 for nonresidents. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359 VOICE or (913) 831-3342 TDD. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Learn to Draw Class Offered for Adults Beginning Jan. 24 A beginning class in drawing being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District will afford adults 16 and older an opportunity to uncover hidden talents and to express themselves creatively. The class is called Learn to Draw. Participants will learn how to draw what they see (contour) using pencil, charcoal, and pastels. Class size is limited to ensure individual attention and personal instruction. Students should bring 2-B and 4-B drawing pencils, an art gum eraser, and a sketch book to the first class. Search for the keyword "drawing" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Class will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday beginning Jan. 24 at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. The cost for six 90-minute sessions is $55 for Johnson County residents or $61 for nonresidents. Because class size is limited, preregistration is required. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359 VOICE or (913) 831-3342 TDD. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top New Web Design and Development Class Offered for Adults A new interactive class teaching the basics of building and publishing a website is being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District in late January. The program is called Web Design and Development and is for adults 18 and older. This class utilizes Macromedia Dreamweaver, the industry standard for building and maintaining websites. Students enrolled in this class receive their own personal domain name and hosting for one year. Search for the keyword "computers" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This program will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday on Jan. 24 and 31. at the Blue Valley Middle School, 5001 W. 163rd Terr., Stilwell. The cost for two two-and-one-half hour sessions is $125 per person for Johnson County residents or $138 per person for nonresidents. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359 VOICE or (913) 831-3342 TDD. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Beginning Adult Swim Lessons Offered Beginning Jan. 25 Adults who want to become safe in or around the water can do so through a class being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. Beginning and intermediate Adult Swim Lessons are for adults 16 and older. Instruction will be given in water safety skills, buoyancy, basic swimming, and breath control. The beginning class is designed for adults with little or no swimming experience. The intermediate class is for adults who feel safe in the water and want to work on their endurance and stroke development. Both classes have sessions beginning Jan. 25 at the Roeland Park Aquatic Center, 4843 Rosewood, Roeland Park. Search for the keywords "swim instruction" to find these programs in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. The beginning class will be offered at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday, while the intermediate class is offered at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday. The cost for either class for six 45-minute lessons is $40 for Johnson County residents or $44 for nonresidents. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359 VOICE or (913) 831-3342 TDD. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Lifeguard Training Class Offered for Ages 15 and Older Starts Jan. 22 Lifeguard training classes for ages 15 and older are being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District beginning in late January. Participants will learn skills required for performing water rescues in life-threatening situations. This class is required for most lifeguard jobs. Participants must be capable of demonstrating good skill performances of ALL swimmer level requirements before enrolling. CPR and First Aid training is included in the class. Attendance at all eight sessions is mandatory. Search for the keywords "water safety" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This program is offered at 5 p.m. Monday and Wednesday beginning Jan. 22 at the Roeland Park Aquatic Center, 4843 Rosewood, Roeland Park. The cost for eight four-hour sessions is $130 for Johnson County residents or $143 for nonresidents. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359 VOICE or (913) 831-3342 TDD. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Foot Massage & Reflexology Workshop Offered for Adults Finally, something you can do about your aching feet! The Johnson County Park and Recreation District is offering a workshop for adults on Foot Massage & Reflexology. The workshop is for adults 16 and older and requires a partner. The workshop will include a demonstration of simple foot massage techniques and basic reflexology. Participants should bring a blanket or pillow. Search for the keyword "massage" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This workshop will take place beginning at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 25, at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. The cost for one two-hour session is $8 per person for Johnson County residents or $9 for nonresidents. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359 VOICE or (913) 831-3342 TDD. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Secrets to Permanent Weight Loss Program Offered for Adults Principals for achieving long-term weight loss is the topic of a presentation for adults being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. This program is for adults 16 and older and is called 5 Secrets to Permanent Weight Loss. The presentation by Dr. Wheeler of the State Line Chiropractic Center covers areas of common concern and the five key areas needed to achieve full health potential. Topics to be touched upon include the role of metabolism and hormones in weight loss; how water, medications, and fat play a role in health, and how pain limits people from achieving their goals. Attendees will be taken through a series of physical tests to evaluate function and will be provided with diet-related materials. Search for the keyword "health" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This workshop will take place beginning at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 25, at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. The cost for one 90-minute session is $12 per person for Johnson County residents or $13 for nonresidents. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359 VOICE or (913) 831-3342 TDD. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Introduction to Irish Dance Class Offered for Youth Irish Ceili (pronounced kay-lee) dancing is not only "O'erobic," but also great fun! A new class being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District will introduce youth ages eight to 11 to this dance form. Boys and girls are both welcome in this class, where they'll learn a few basic dance steps. This is a high-energy class, so students should be prepared to jump, hop, and maybe even kick. No special attire is needed, just comfortable clothing and shoes. Search for the keyword "dance" to find these programs in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This program is offered at 11 a.m. Saturday, beginning Jan. 27 at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. The cost for four 60-minute sessions is $36 for Johnson County residents or $40 for nonresidents. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359 VOICE or (913) 831-3342 TDD. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Annual Severe Weather Training set February 13 at Olathe East High School On the eve of March, which traditional is designated “Severe Weather Month,” Johnson County citizens are invited to attend the Annual Severe Weather Training program on Tuesday, February 13, at Olathe East High School, 14545 West 127th Street. The free public program is scheduled from 7 to 9 p.m. in the school auditorium. The program is being sponsored by the Johnson County Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security and the National Weather Service. The training will include: educating citizens about safety considerations in responding to severe weather; defining weather terminology, such as types of weather alerts and warnings; discussing the role of the National Weather Service in forecasting, tracking, and informing the public about severe weather activities; and, explaining the role of Emergency Management in time of severe weather and Johnson County’s early warning siren system. Citizens also are encouraged to establish or review their emergency plans in the event that a tornado or severe thunderstorm strikes while they are at home, at work, or any other location that they frequent. Information about setting up an emergency plan also will be available at the program. More information about the Annual Severe Weather Training and how to create an emergency plan is available by calling Clarin Blessing, assistant director of training and education for the Department of Emergency Management, at 715-1002. back to top Commission honors young Olathe author for book on Tourette Syndrome Dylan Peters, a 9-year-old Olathe boy with Tourette Syndrome, was honored Thursday, January 11, by the Johnson County Board of Commissioners for having the “write” stuff concerning his disease. The fourth grade student at Brougham Elementary School was presented a Certificate of Merit by Chairman Annabeth Surbaugh on behalf of the Board in recognition of his book, entitled “Tick Talk – Living with Tourette Syndrome (TS).” The presentation occurred in the Board’s Hearing Room during its weekly business session in the Johnson County Administration Building in downtown Olathe. Dylan wrote “Tic Talk - Living with Tourette Syndrome” based on experiences as someone with TS. The disease, which is also called Tourette’s Syndrome, is a neurological disorder characterized by facial and body ticks that are often accompanied by repetitive noises. His book was written to help people of all ages better understand TS and what it means to those who have the disorder. Praising him for his accomplishment, Chairman Surbaugh said the book provides an amusing and insightful offering to readers of all ages in understanding Tourette Syndrome and how it affects people with the disorder and their families. “You are certainty a role model for all of us,” she added. The Olathe boy and his mother, Tammy, accepted the certificate while his father, Dan, sat in the audience and video-taped the brief ceremony. Dylan also has a 12-year-old brother, Leighton, a seventh grader at Chisholm Trail Junior High School in Olathe, and a 3-year-old sister, Brooke. During the ceremony, Dylan presented the chairman with an autographed copy of his book and offered a few words. “I wrote this book about Tourette Syndrome to educate people about the disease and to help people with the disease know that they are not alone,” Dylan said. He was diagnosed with the affliction five years ago at age 4. Dylan completed the rough draft of “Tick Talk – Living with Tourette Syndrome” in only eight weeks, starting the writing project when he was in the third grade. Completing artwork for the book and getting it published took far longer. Zachary Wendland, Dylan's friend, illustrated the book. He, too, attends Brougham Elementary School and is in the sixth grade. The foreword to the book was written by Jim Eisenreich, a former Major League baseball player who has suffered with TS since childhood. He played on five professional teams, including the Kansas City Royals (1987-1992) in a 15-year baseball career. Five Star Publications, Inc., publisher of “Tick Talk – Living with Tourette Syndrome,” released the book last month. The book, with 50 pages, currently is available at the Borders Book Store in Overland Park and will soon be on the shelves at the Borders location in Olathe. It is also available on-line through Amazon.com, Walmart.com and the book's website: http://www.tictalkbook.com/. back to top Prescribed Prairie Burns Planned at Heritage Park During January, February and March Throughout January and February and possibly into March, Johnson County Park and Recreation District maintenance staff plan to conduct controlled burns at Heritage Park, 16050 Pflumm Road, Olathe. In all, officials anticipate about 500 acres of prairie consisting of a number of separate areas will be burned this spring as part of ongoing land management efforts. "Our main goal is to restore our idle fields to more of a natural state," said Heritage Park Senior Park Worker Mark Golding. "Our target is to control woody plants and to slow the progress of hedge and locust trees, plus we are trying to restore prairie grasses and wildflowers. We have made a great deal of progress so far as to restoring prairie grasses and now we are working on bringing back wild flowers as well. Fire is our best chance at doing this". Because a number of factors including relative humidity, wind speed and direction, fuel moisture, and cloud ceiling have to be right before a burn can proceed, burns cannot be scheduled far in advance and will take place as conditions warrant. All prescribed burns will take place between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. On days when burns take place, signs will be posted near the park entrances. Safety is of utmost concern and park staff work with local fire departments and conduct all fires by permit. Golding said efforts are made to keep smoke out of the roadways and away from housing, but this doesn’t always work out. While these fires are not publicized for public viewing, patrons who are in the park at the time of a prescribed burn may watch from a safe distance and maintenance staff will be happy to discuss the process and answer questions. For their own safety, patrons must obey all directives of maintenance personnel. Prior to settlement, much of America's great plains were kept to a prairie ecosystem primarily by fires that were started naturally by lightning. These fires raced across the prairies and killed most trees. After settlement, fires were suppressed and trees and other woody plants invaded what were formerly grasslands. Even though most of the above-ground parts of the plants burn, prairie plants are not killed by fire because they store food in their massive root systems. Experts believe prescribed fire as a management tool has many benefits to the prairie, including producing plants that flower more, produce more seed, and are more robust; lengthening the growing season for native plants and shortening it for invading weeds; and reducing maintenance costs compared to mowing and herbicides. For more information about controlled burns at Heritage Park, contact Senior Park Worker Mark Golding at (913) 782-7625 or at (913) 909-0736. back to top George Washington at Valley Forge is Subject of New Outreach Program The trials and accomplishments of George Washington and his Continental Army during the brutal winter of 1777 is the subject of a new living history presentation offered for groups by interpretive staff from the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Ernie Miller Nature Center. Park Naturalist Molly Postlewait developed the 45-minute program, which is called Winter at Valley Forge and is aimed at fourth- fifth, and sixth-graders. The program is available for classroom bookings during January this year and will be offered in December and January in future years. This timing not only coincides with the time of year these events actually unfolded over 225 years ago, but also ties into the January observation of Kansas History Month and the study of American heroes in Kansas classrooms. "I love the creativity which is involved with taking a little slice of history and making it real so that it's not just dates and times and boring stuff," Postlewait said. "I love to bring the human aspect into it. I wanted to bring to light some of the women who were involved in the revolutionary effort. The story that I present is told from the perspective of three different women, so I actually change costume and change character during the program." The first "eyewitness account" is presented by an older well-to-do women who serves as a spy for the revolutionary cause in the British-controlled city of Philadelphia. Her name is Lydia Dowden and she is a composite character based on the stories of several real women. Second, audiences meet Sybil Ludington, who was a real historical figure sometimes called the "female Paul Revere" because she rode her horse through the countryside alerting the minutemen of advancing British troops. The third character is a fictional woman named Molly Callahan, who is the daughter of an indentured servant from Ireland whose husband and 12-year old son are part of Washington's forces at Valley Forge. She makes the transition between characters using the words of the song "Yankee Doodle" and through changes in lighting and costume, Postlewait said. Throughout the program, George Washington is prominently referred to and mentioned by every character. Washington at Valley Forge was developed using Kansas Department of Education standards and Postlewait said she tried to strongly correlate the program to state history standards. "For instance, the kids are learning about what a loyalist was, a patriot, an indentured servant, and the concept of taxation without representation," Postlewait said. "We tried to weave in those topics into this so that it would be pertinent to the classroom." At the end of each presentation, Postlewait gives students an opportunity to give comments or ask questions and she leaves a packet of materials for students to review including a timeline, vocabulary words, and classroom discussion questions. Postlewait said she wants her audiences to experience "pride, amazement, and astonishment that a rag-tag group of amateur citizens were able to stop the greatest force on the earth, which is what the British army was considered." She said she also wants to bring home the fact that the revolution was a war fought by civilians with women and children involved. Winter at Valley Forge is available for presentation at school and other locations throughout the metropolitan areas. The cost for the first 45-minute presentation at a site is $49 for Johnson County residents or $54 for nonresidents. The cost for consecutive presentations at the same site are $36 for Johnson County residents or $40 for nonresidents. Presentations are limited to groups of 35 students or less. For more information or to schedule a program, call the Ernie Miller Nature Center at (913) 764-7759. back to top Sunday Afternoon Nature Programs For February at Ernie Miller Nature Center Bring the family to the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Ernie Miller Nature Center in February for Sunday Afternoon Nature Programs for educational and entertaining programs. The programs begin at 2 p.m. and last about an hour and are designed for all ages. A charge of $1.75 per person, payable at the site, helps cover the cost of the programs; children under two are free. The Ernie Miller Nature Center is owned and operated by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District and is located at 909 N. Kansas 7 Highway, Olathe. February presentations will include: Feb. 4 Backpacking - Would you like to experience real adventure? Backpacking offers a way to see the parts of the world that are not accessible other than on foot. This program will introduce you to the basic skills needed to plan and enjoy a back country adventure. Participants will learn what equipment and clothing to have, how to properly pack a backpack, how to pick a campsite and set up camp, back country safety, basic navigation, camp stove cooking and a lot more. Backpacking is a sport for the young and old, for all who seek solitude and amazement. Feb. 11 Mother Nature - What can you do for Mother Earth? Learn about recycling, preventing pollution and protecting wildlife. Meet a relative of an endangered species. Environmental stories will be presented by Mother Nature herself. Threatened and endangered species will be highlighted. Feb. 18 Animal Scene Investigations - Participants will investigate a mock animal’s death and solve the mystery. The clues may be strange and unusual. Could this animal’s death have been caused by humans, malnutrition, age or sheer accident? Collect the evidence and test problem-solving skills. (Recommended for ages 8-12) Feb. 25 The Good, the Bad, and the Smelly - Take a different look at some of the not-so-glamorous animals around, spiders, snakes, and skunks. These critters may not be loveable to all, but learn why they are important to our lifestyles and environment. Live snakes and spider will be displayed. Search for the keywords "nature programs" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. For more information on the Sunday Nature Programs, call (913) 764-7759. back to top Animal Tales Storytime Sessions Continue During February at Ernie Miller Nature Center Young children and their parents are invited to come listen and learn during a popular storytime program offered at the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Ernie Miller Nature Center in Olathe. The Program is called Storytelling: Animal Tales - Storytime at the Ernie Miller Nature Center and is for ages two to six. All children must be accompanied by an adult. This program will feature stories, songs, and surprises. Search for the keyword "storytelling" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Additional Storytime sessions are planned for March 7 and 28. This program will be offered at the Nature Center beginning at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 7, when the theme is "snowflakes." The next session is scheduled for the same time on Feb. 21, when the theme is "bears". The cost per 30-minute session is $1.75 per person, including adults, payable at the event. Advance registrations are not necessary for this program. Ernie Miller Nature Center is located at 909 N. Kansas-7 Highway, Olathe. For more information, contact the Nature Center at (913) 764-7759. back to top Mom's Health Break and Companion Classes for Kids at Athletic Training Center The idea behind a Johnson County Park and Recreation District program called Mom's Health Break is simple: offer moms a program that helps take care of their health while offering companion programs for their children at the same time, all at the Athletic Training Center, 9301 W. 73rd St., Merriam. Mom's Health Break is a yoga program for ages 18 and older of all ability levels. The program is designed to help lower stress, improve circulation, flexibility and coordination. During December, Mom's Health Break is offered at 11:45 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 6 and 13. The cost for one 60-minute session is $5 per person for Johnson County residents or $6 per participant for nonresidents. An additional $1 will be charged to participants who do not have a child enrolled in one of the companion programs. The companion class for Feb. 6 is Hooray for Hearts for ages three through six. This new program will give participants an opportunity to Valentines Day decorations, hear a fun story, and enjoy a fun treat to eat. This program will also take place at the Athletic Training Center at 11:45 a.m. The companion class for Feb. 13 is Wake Up Sleepy Head for ages three through six. Participants will learn about animals which will soon reemerge after their winter naps. This program will also take place at the Athletic Training Center at 11:45 a.m. The cost for either of the companion classes for one 60-minute session is $10 per person for Johnson County residents or $11 per person for nonresidents. To find these programs in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings, search for the keyword "health" to find Mom's Health Break, and "art" to find the two companion classes listed above. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359 VOICE or (913) 831-3342 TDD. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top 2006 Holidays Reveal Increased Need Johnson County Human Services & Aging saw a dramatic increase in the number of county residents seeking holiday assistance in 2006. Despite a record number of assistance requests, HS/A was able to connect all residents with community resources to meet the need. HS/A operates six outreach centers that assist qualifying families and individuals with necessities including food, clothing, utility assistance, rental assistance, help with paying for medications, and other support. The department also coordinates holiday donations to those in need. Each year, the county’s outreach centers sponsor the distribution of Thanksgiving baskets and Christmas gifts, serving as liaison between those wishing to donate and those needing assistance. Key 2006 Statistics: 454 families (1,506 individuals) received Thanksgiving baskets, valued at $47,680. 889 families (2,692 individuals) were sponsored for Christmas assistance, valued at $204,761. The Last-Minute Holiday Shop provided Christmas gifts for 310 children, valued at $15,500. More than 200 Thanksgiving baskets were distributed in cooperation with Rolling Hills Presbyterian Church. 90 Johnson County Area Agency on Aging (AAA) senior clients and nine Accessibility clients were adopted by businesses through the Share HOPE program, which provided gifts, food, and gift certificates for groceries and utility payments. Corporate partner Lee Jeans filled more than 250 holiday stockings with items such as magnifying glasses, pill sorters, socks, and postage stamps, and donated them to the AAA. The Overland Park Church of Christ donated 40 blankets created by members of its Busy Hands ministry. The blankets were given to AAA clients and seniors receiving Meals on Wheels. Overview For Thanksgiving, qualifying families receive nonperishable food and a grocery voucher or meat. Christmas assistance consists of families and individuals being sponsored by local businesses, community organizations, schools, churches, families, and individuals. Families requesting assistance are screened for qualification and then matched with donors, who provide a basket of traditional Christmas foods, grocery gift certificates, gifts for family members, and in certain instances, payments on utility bills. HS/A also sponsored a Last-Minute Holiday Shop to assist families that had missed holiday assistance deadlines with other local agencies. Children’s gift items were donated by area churches, schools, individuals, and county employees. Other HS/A holiday efforts included the annual Thanksgiving holiday basket distribution co-sponsored by Rolling Hills Presbyterian Church. The baskets were distributed to elderly residents and individuals with disabilities who met low-income requirements. The effort was coordinated by the AAA, the HS/A Accessibility program, and Rolling Hills. Members of the congregation donated food, including hams, and volunteered their time to deliver the baskets. Local businesses took part in the new Share HOPE (Holiday Outreach Program for the Elderly) program. Participants including Scoular Industries, State Street Financial, Principal Commercial Acceptance, Westar Energy, Embarq, Overland Park Church of Christ, Harrington Bank, Johnson County Extension Office, Bossler-Hix, Home Instead Senior Care, and Elder Care. Johnson County Human Services & Aging is grateful to all local companies, civic organizations, schools, churches, families, and individuals who helped meet local needs during the 2006 holiday season. Through their generous efforts, many vulnerable residents had a more plentiful holiday season. The outreach centers in Johnson County are at the following locations: Blue Valley Multi-Service Center, 7500 W. 149th Terrace, Overland Park De Soto Multi-Service Center, 33145 W. 83rd St., De Soto Gardner Multi-Service Center, 112 S. Elm, Gardner North Central Multi-Service Center, 12425 W. 87th St. Parkway, Lenexa Spring Hill Multi-Service Center, 401 N. Madison, Spring Hill Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood Drive, Roeland Park back to top Celebrate Laura Ingalls Wilder's Birthday at The Ernie Miller Nature Center on Feb. 10 Celebrating the birthday of Laura Ingalls Wilder, early Kansas Pioneer and author of the beloved "Little House on the Prairie" books, is the purpose of a new special event planned at the Ernie Miller Nature Center in early February. Laura's Legacy is the name of this event, which will take place from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Feb. 10 at the Ernie Miller Nature Center, at 909 N. Kansas 7 Highway, Olathe. Participants are encouraged to dress like Laura and wear pioneer clothing. There will be a variety of activities for participants to take part in including making rag dolls, experiencing a lessons from an 1800's school and listening to music from the time period. Birthday cake will be served as an interpreter tells Laura's favorite stories of her childhood. Search for the keyword "history" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. A Laura Ingalls Wilder-themed event conducted last September drew more than 100 girls. Admission for this two-hour event is $7 per person, paid on-site, but reservations are required. For reservations or more information, call (913) 764-7759. The Johnson County Park and Recreation District's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359 VOICE or (913) 831-3342 TDD. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District’s website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Self Defense Program at JCCC on Feb. 10 by The Ali Kemp Educational (T.A.K.E.) Foundation A program which represents a living legacy in honor of Ali Kemp, a 19-year-old Leawood resident who was murdered while working as a lifeguard at a residential subdivision pool in the summer of 2002, is being offered at Johnson County Community College in early February. The program is called T.A.K.E. Defense Training and has as its goal giving women of any age the self-protection skills they need to avoid becoming the victims of violent crime. Participants are encouraged to bring a friend as portions of the curriculum use a partner and mothers and daughters make great teams. Participants will learn basic techniques which could save their lives and thwart an attack. This program is being presented by T.A.K.E. (The Ali Kemp Educational) Foundation in cooperation with the Johnson County Park and Recreation District, City of Leawood Parks and Recreation, the Blue Valley Recreation Commission. The program was designed by JCPRD Corporate and Community Wellness Manager Jill Leiker, a professional self-defense trainer, in consultation with local law enforcement agencies. The idea for the program was originally brought by representatives of the Kemp family to the local recreation agencies. This two-hour program is free, but advanced registration is required and enrollment is limited to 100 people per class. The program will be offered at 9 a.m. and again at 1 p.m. at Johnson County Community College, 12345 College Blvd, Overland Park. To register for either of these two sessions, call (913) 403-8272. Search for the keyword "self defense" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. On-line registration is available for this program by emailing info@takedefense.org. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top JCPRD Spring Catalog Available After Jan. 29 The Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Spring ACTIVITIES catalog will be available after Jan. 29. The quarterly publication lists more than 600 programs offered by the District from March though May and beyond. The Spring issue will also include the first public listing of 2006 program descriptions for the JCPRD's popular summer day camps, as well as information about the Heritage Park Triathlon and Duathlon and the Shawnee Mission Park Triathlon. Other Spring offerings range from arts and crafts to sports to nature activities, and include leagues, classes, seminars, workshops and trips. Included are programs for toddlers through senior adults. Registration for classes in the Spring catalog will begin immediately after the catalogs arrive. Spring programs start on or about March 1. The ACTIVITIES catalog is undergoing some major organizational changes beginning with the Spring issue. The changes are meant to make the publication more consistent and the help readers to find what they are looking for. The reorganized catalog will feature 12 topic-based sections, which will be listed in alphabetical order from front to back of the catalog. As planned, the new sections are: Aquatics; Camps; Childcare; Fine & Performing Arts; Fitness & Health: Gymnastics; Hobbies & Special Interests; Nature & Outdoors; Special Events; Special Populations: Sports; and Travel. Within these sections will be age-based subheads (Preschool, Youth, Adult, 50 Plus) under which all programs pertaining to that topic will be listed in alphabetical order. ACTIVITIES is mailed out to approximately 30,000 past participants who have taken part in a District program within the last year. Catalogs will also be available at Johnson County Library Branches, community centers, various businesses, and at District locations. Updated JCPRD program listings and 24-hour online registration are available at the District's website at www.jcprd.com. Look for Spring listings to be online Jan. 29 as well. back to top Storybook Tales Theater Program Offered for Youth Storybook Tales Theater is the name of a beginning drama program for youth being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. Designed for young thespians ages five through seven, this program will help develop participants' imaginations as they have fun. Each week, a different storybook tale will be acted out. Search for the keyword "theater" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Storybook Tales will take place at 10 a.m. Saturday beginning Feb. 17 at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. Class cost for two 60-minute sessions is $22 per person for Johnson County residents or $24 per person for nonresidents. Preregistration is required. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359 VOICE or (913) 831-3342 TDD. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Dodgeball Tournaments Offered for Adults Remember playing dodgeball in grade school? The Johnson County Park and Recreation District is now offering a Dodgeball Tournament program for adults. This fast-paced and entertaining program is for teams of six to ten adults, ages 14 and older. Men, women, and mixed teams will compete together in a round-robin tournament. All teams will compete at least once against all other teams and the top two teams will progress to a final match. The winners will receive championship shirts. Search for the keyword "dodgeball" to find this program in the JCPRD’s Activities Catalog and online listings. The final tournament of the winter season will take place at 6 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 16 at the Athletic Club of Overland Park, 10440 Marty, Overland Park. The Wednesday prior to each tournament is the registration deadline. The cost per tournament is $75 per team of six to 10. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359 VOICE or (913) 831-3342 TDD. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Neck & Shoulder Massage workshop Offered For Adults on Feb. 22 If the stress of your busy lifestyle has left your neck and shoulders stiff, a workshop offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District can help. The workshop is called Neck & Shoulder Massage and is for adults 16 and older. Our instructor will teach simple massage techniques designed to give instant relief. A partner is required and participants should bring a blanket or pillow. Search for the keyword "massage" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This workshop will take place at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 22 at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. The cost for one two-hour session is $8 per person for Johnson County residents or $9 per person for nonresidents . The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359 VOICE or (913) 831-3342 TDD. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Nancy Wallerstein is JCPRD Board Chair for 2007 Nancy Wallerstein of Prairie Village was recently elected by her fellow Johnson County Park and Recreation District Board of Commissioners to serve as chair during 2007. "We continue to look for ways to serve our citizens and provide programs and services throughout the county," Wallerstein said. "In 2007 we will make the very most of our limited funding by completing a number of significant capital improvement projects within our parks and by beginning several others including the planned improvements to Shawnee Mission Park Lake. We also will work cooperatively throughout the community to address a wide range of recreational needs and to identify strategies for fully funding our Master Action Plan, MAP 2020." Wallerstein has been a member of the District Board since February 1999. She previously served as chair in 2002. In 2005, she successfully chaired the committee that planned the Johnson County Sesquicentennial Celebration and Community Festival at The Theatre in the Park at Shawnee Mission Park. She is a founding member of the Johnson County Art Fest organizing committee that presented a two-week art exhibition of Johnson County artists at the Ernie Miller Nature Center in November of 2005 and 2006. A native of the Kansas City area, Wallerstein has lived in Prairie Village since 1979, where she served on the City Council for nine years. While on the council, she served as the council’s liaison to the Prairie Village Municipal Arts Council and as vice chair of the city’s Communications Committee. She was also a member of the Prairie Village Park and Recreation Committee for 15 years, including six years as chair and three years as vice chair. She chaired the swimming pool improvement committee, which oversaw a $4 million renovation of the Prairie Village municipal pool into a state-of-the-art water park. She was also responsible for overseeing major renovations to Prairie Village’s eight city parks. Wallerstein currently serves as the JCPRD Board of Commissioner’s liaison to The Theatre in the Park. She is active on several boards including the Johnson County Museums, the Northeast Johnson County Chamber of Commerce, the Shawnee Mission Indian Museum Foundation, The Barn Players, the Johnson County Citizens for the Arts Coalition as well as other ad hoc committees. She previously was a member of the Shawnee Mission School District’s East Area Advisory Board and completed the Northeast Johnson County Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Northeast program. Her husband, Ed, is a humor stylist and writer at Hallmark. They are the parents of an adult daughter, Bess. Other 2007 Officers Other Board officers for 2007 elected during the Board’s December meeting are: James R. Azeltine, vice chair; Dr. Marvin E. Wollen, secretary; Gary K. Montague, treasurer; Anthony Adams, assistant secretary: George J. Schlagel; and Paul E. Alvarado, past chair. back to top Kansas Recreation and Park Association Recognizes Two From JCPRD Two longtime Johnson County Park and Recreation District personnel were honored by the Kansas Recreation and Park Association during the organization's annual conference, which took place Jan. 15-19 in Topeka. Recreation Senior Administrative Assistant Jane Owens was presented with the KRPA Special Service Award, while 50 Plus Volunteer Joan Jackman received the Distinguished Volunteer Award. According to the KRPA, the Special Service Award is for "any full-time nonprofessional employee within the park and recreation field who has rendered outstanding service" and has worked in the field for at least two years. Owens has worked for the District since November of 1980. She was also recognized recently as the JCPRD's 2006 Employee of the Year in the Recreation Division. Owens' many responsibilities include managing the District's mail service, organizing and maintaining the District's form system, overseeing vans, and taking Board minutes in the administration manager's absence. In duties relating specifically to the Recreation Division, Owens is her division's assistant to the District Board and is responsible for coordinating meetings, minutes, and agendas for the Board's Recreation Committee. She organizes and maintains the Recreation Division’s administrative files system, serves as mentor and trainer of the division’s support staff, and coordinates the division’s internship program. She coordinates the division’s annual budgets, policies and procedures, fees and charges, and coordinates and maintains contracts and agreements, bids, and purchase orders. Owens also supervises the Antioch Park Building A receptionist and oversees building operations. She is the Recreation representative on the Assistance Task Force and has chaired the RACKO Potluck Committee for the past two years. During 2006, Owens experienced "the highest of highs" in her personal life in the form of a happy engagement to her longtime love and "the lowest of lows" with the loss of her mother and her beloved pet, her nominator, Administrative Manager Jo Ann Courtney notes. "In good times and bad, she is as steady as a rock and continues to produce high-quality work and care for the employees of the Recreation Division and District as a whole," Courtney writes. "She is unfaltering in her efforts to do the best job possible and to be a model for other employees." Jackman has been a volunteer with the 50 Plus Travel Department for more than 16 years. She first became involved with the District when she was employed elsewhere as a travel agent. Every Thursday morning, she contributes three hours and she also helps with the department's special events. Over the years, she has contributed over 2,000 hours, which is the equivalent of a year's work by a full-time employee. "Her knowledge, expertise and suggestions have contributed to the success of this program," 50 Plus Manager Carlene Todd wrote in her nomination. back to top Theatre in the Park Audition Workshop Feb. 17 at Leawood Middle School Build your confidence and learn how to present yourself at musical theater auditions through the Audition Workshop being presented by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's The Theatre in The Park. The location for this program was recently announced as Leawood Middle School, 2410 W. 123rd St., Leawood. This program is for ages seven through adults and is designed to provide an informative hands-on experience for beginning students as well as a refresher course for veteran performers. Topics will include: song selection, dance techniques, and general tips for a successful audition. For more information on the workshop, visit the Theatre's website at www.theatreinthepark.org. Search for the keyword "theater" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. The workshop will take place beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 17 at Leawood Middle School. The cost for one three-hour workshop is $20 per person for Johnson County residents or $22 per person for nonresidents. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359 VOICE or (913) 831-3342 TDD. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top