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

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	MAY - 2007 Women's Wellness Retreat Offered at TimberRidge on May 19 Have you ever wanted to attend a health spa, but couldn't fit it into your schedule or budget. A program being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District at the TimberRidge Adventure Center in mid-May could be your answer. Bring your friends for a fun day outdoors which promises the benefits of a health retreat. The program is for ages 18 and older and is called the Women's Wellness Retreat. This program will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 19. This peaceful day will begin with yoga and movement classes meant to help participants relax and reflect. During a guided hike on TimberRidge's trails, participants can enjoy spending time in nature as a powerful healing tool. A light, healthy lunch is included. Search for the keyword "women" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. The cost for one six-hour session is $30 for Johnson County residents or $33 for nonresidents. Preregistration is required. TimberRidge is located at 12300 South Homestead Lane, Olathe, accessible via an entrance which is separate from and south of the main entrance to Kill Creek Regional Park. 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 about this program, call Park Naturalist Molly Postlewait at (913) 764-8580 ext. 26. To register, call (913) 831-3359. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Registrations for BikeSource Duathlon & Triathlon at Heritage Park on May 20 Registration deadlines are approaching for the BikeSource Duathlon and Triathlon at Heritage Park, which will take place beginning at 7:30 a.m. on Sunday, May 20, in Heritage Park, 16050 Pflumm Road, Olathe. The BikeSource Triathlon consists of a one-third mile swim, followed by an 11.5-mile bike, and a three-mile run on a relatively flat course. The triathlon is open to all individuals ages 15 and over, with participants competing in five-year age groups from 15 years to 90 and above. Team categories include: men, women, coed, family, and corporate. Two- and three-person teams will again be accepted. The BikeSource Duathlon consists of a two-mile run, followed by a 11.5-mile bike, and a three-mile run. The last two legs of the event take place on the same courses as the triathlon. The duathlon is open only to individuals, not teams. Registration fees for either event are $45 for individuals and $80 for triathlon teams if postmarked by Tuesday, May 8. After this date, late fees will be assessed as follows: registrations postmarked between May 9 and 13 will be $55 for individuals and $90 for teams, and registrations turned in May 14 through race day are $65 and $100. Mail-in registrations must be postmarked no later than May 12, while the deadline for fax and online registrations is May 15. Each entrant will receive a T-shirt and a swim cap. This event is limited to 500 entries and typically fills one week prior to race day. The BikeSource Duathlon and Triathlon is a special event of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District and is sponsored by BikeSource; Drs. Hawks, Besler & Rogers; Enhanced Vision Center; Smoothie King; the Think Fit Foundation; Radio Stations 97.3 ESPN Radio, 810 WHB, and Hot Talk AM 1510; Tri-KC Triathlon Club; and KC Multisport. Proceeds from the triathlon and duathlon will benefit the Kansas City Blazers Competitive Swim Team. For more information or a registration form, call (913) 831-3359. Registrations are being taken on-line at www.sportkc.org. Event brochures with complete details are available at www.jcprd.com/activities/special_events.cfm back to top Youth Outdoor JCPRD Summer Soccer League Deadline is May 22 Signups are now being taken for the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Summer Youth Outdoor Soccer Program. This program is for boys and girls in grades one through seven. Play will take place beginning the week of June 11 at Thomas S. Stoll Memorial Park, 12500 W. 119th St., Overland Park. May 22 is the registration deadline and no late registrations will be accepted. This program is designed for individuals and teams to use as an additional practice opportunity prior to the Fall Season. The program will consist of six games, one per week, beginning June 11. Games will take place on weekday evenings and no additional practice times are scheduled. Coaches will contact players with schedules one week prior to the start date. The cost is $44 per person. Teams will wear their shirts or jerseys from the spring session. Those who did not participate in the spring will be issued a shirt. Search for the keyword "soccer league" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Visit the District's website at www.jcprdsoccer.com where forms will be available for printing in preparation for faxing or mailing. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For questions, call Chris at (913) 236-1245. To request a registration form, call (913) 831-3359. back to top Overnight Fishing Opportunity at Shawnee Mission Park is May 26 The first of three overnight fishing opportunities planned at Shawnee Mission Park Lake during 2007 will take place on May 26. After 11 p.m. on that date, the park will be open strictly for fishing only and park rangers will be on duty throughout the night. All park gates will be open, but access within the park will be limited. The south side of the park will be barricaded east of the 87th Street "Y" and west of the 79th Street "Y" off of Barkley Circle near the main entrance. Search for the keyword "fishing" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Fishing will be allowed from the bank or from watercraft. Park safety officials noted that state law requires a white light be on at all times on boats on the water after sunset. Before fishing, area anglers ages 16 to 64 will need to have a valid Kansas fishing license, a Johnson County Park and Recreation District fishing permit, and all appropriate boat tags, if applicable. District fishing permits are available at: the JCPRD Registration Office, Building C, 6501 Antioch Road, in the John Barkley Visitor Center at Shawnee Mission Park, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee and Lenexa; and at numerous local bait and tackle shops. Because of plans to draw down water levels in Shawnee Mission Park Lake beginning July 9 to facilitate projects aimed at improving the lake’s water quality and fishery, this year’s overnight fishing opportunities will be limited to three ending in mid-July. This year's other overnight fishing opportunities at Shawnee Mission Park are planned for June 23 and July 14. Officials anticipate it will take two to three weeks to fully lower the lake level. For more information about the overnight fishing program, call Mike Ray, Superintendent of Park Safety & Interpretation, at (913) 438-7275. back to top Learn the health benefits of tea Did you know that tea can lower the incidence of over 14 illnesses and offer preventative benefits? The Johnson County Library will present a program Tea and Health, on Thursday, May 10 at 1:30 p.m. at Shawnee Heartland Assisted Living, 26107 Midland Dr., Shawnee, KS. Laurie Black, tea educator, also known as the “Tea Queen” will give an enlightening history and definition of tea; describe four types of tea; and explain the health benefits. Tea samples will be provided. The program is free and open to the public. Black has taught classes to children, teens, men and women, even a few doctors. She is especially interested in the history and social tea rituals of countries around the world. In March of 2005, she attended The World Tea Expo and completed two certification classes given by the Specialty Tea Institute. For more information, please call (913) 495-2400, visit the library web site www.jocolibrary.org or http://theteaqueen.com. Interpretive services and other accommodations for those with special needs are available for all Johnson County Library programs. Please request from library staff 48 hours or more in advance of scheduled event. back to top A great way to spend Mothers’ Day! The Johnson County Library will present a program entitled Gibson Girl Mothers/Flapper Daughters on Sunday, May 13, 2007 at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Lakeview Village Retirement Community, 9100 Park, Lenexa, KS. Fashion historian Bonnie Hansen will take a look at the first generation gap. The Flappers were making a conscious statement but their mothers didn't always approve! The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments provided. Hansen is owner of Vintage Nouveau--Fashions from the Past and is an avid collector of antique clothing. She has worked with the motion picture industry as a costumed “extra” and has provided wardrobe to notable films such as Road to Perdition, Kansas City and Ride with the Devil. Hansen has also worked with the Titanic Exhibition and costumed the ghosts at the KC Rail Experience at Union Station. She is a founding member of the R. A. Long Historical Society. For more information, please call (913) 261-2315 or visit the library web site www.jocolibrary.org. Interpretive services and other accommodations for those with special needs are available for all Johnson County Library programs. Please request from library staff 48 hours or more in advance of scheduled event. back to top C-SPAN Book TV Bus to Visit Library The Johnson County Library will host a visit from the C-SPAN Book TV Bus on Friday, May 18, at the Central Resource Library, 9875 W. 87th St., Overland Park, KS from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. While parked at the front of the Library, the public will have an opportunity to board for a close up look at the mobile production studio during its continuing tour across America. The C-SPAN bus crew is planning to interview author Dr. Hal Wert, author of Hoover, the Fishing President, during the stop at the Library. A vehicle like no other, the Book TV Bus is a 45-foot custom built coach that serves as a mobile television studio and multi-media demonstration center. On board the Bus, visitors are shown the valuable resources offered by the public affairs network, C-SPAN, and specifically the 48 hours of nonfiction books aired every weekend on Book TV. Launched in September of 2005, the Book TV Bus has since traveled through 40 states and 236 cities, hosting over 81,000 visitors. The C-SPAN Book TV Bus will roll into Kansas City for the first time on Friday, May 18, and Saturday, May 19, as part of the first annual Kansas City Literary Festival (KCLF) at the Country Club Plaza. This visit to the area was organized and arranged by Time Warner Cable as part of their ongoing public service support of the non-profit C-SPAN Television Networks and commitment to the community. The Book TV Bus Schedule while in Kansas City is as follows: Friday, May 18th: 10am-12pm: Harry S. Truman Library, 500 W. US HWY 24, Independence, MO This will be the 4th Presidential Library visit for the Book TV Bus. 1pm-3pm: Johnson County Central Resource Library, 9875 W. 87th St., Overland Park, KS Bus crew is planning to interview author Dr. Hal Wert, Hoover, the Fishing President. 6pm-7pm: Unity Temple, 707 W. 47th St, Kansas City, MO Rainy Day Books is presenting a speech by author Michael Beschloss, Presidential Courage: Brave Leaders and How They Changed America, 1789-1989. 7pm-8pm: KCLF VIP Reception at Tiffany’s & Co., 301 Nichols Rd., Kansas City, MO This reception will feature a display of rare books from Linda Hall Library’s History of Science Collection including the original edition of Gaileo’s Dialogo. Saturday, May 19th: 10am-6pm: 1st Annual Kansas City Literary Festival, Country Club Plaza Bus will be parked on Pennsylvania near the Poetry stage. Time Warner and C-SPAN will be giving out 500 Book TV Tote bags to visitors to the Bus. Library Programs are free and open to the public. Interpretive services and other accommodations for those with special needs are available by contacting Library staff at least 48 hours in advance of the scheduled Library program. About Book TV Every weekend starting Saturday, 8 am to Monday, 8 am ET, Book TV airs 48 hours of non-fiction book programming on a variety of topics including history, biographies, politics, current events, and the media. Book TV features author interviews, readings, and panels at bookstores, libraries, and book festivals across the country. For more information, visit the Book TV Web site at www.booktv.org. About C-SPAN C-SPAN, the political network of record, was created in 1979 by America's cable companies as a public service. C-SPAN is currently available in 90 million households, C-SPAN2 in 82 million households, and C-SPAN3 in more than 12 million households nationwide. For more information about C-SPAN, visit www.c-span.org. back to top South Metro Connection Study TEAM open house meeting june 5 The South Metro Connection Study Team invites you to an open house public meeting on June 5 to review the preliminary roadway alignment concept identified for further evaluation in southeastern Johnson County and northwestern Cass County. WHAT: South Metro Connection Study Open House WHEN: Tuesday, June 5, 2007 TIME: 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. WHERE: Lakewood Middle School, 6601 Edgewater Drive, Overland Park, KS During the last few months, the team has evaluated the following alternatives to determine how well they address transportation needs identified in the study area: No build - Includes funded roadway projects included in the Transportation Improvement Program. No right-of-way required. Planned projects - Existing two-lane roads become improved roads where warranted. Each jurisdiction would implement its long-range, unfunded, planned roadway improvements. Some right-of-way required. Missing links - Completing planned projects and adding some missing roadway connections and making network improvements to create continuous east-west routes. Parkway/expressway - A new partial-access-controlled, four-lane, divided roadway that would link to the North Cass Parkway. Right-of-way required. Freeway - A new fully access-controlled, four-lane divided roadway. More right-of-way required. This open house public meeting will feature feedback received so far from citizens and the Partnership Advisory Board; and summarize land-use plans, traffic and population historic trends, and future projections for the area. The study team will screen concepts and alignments that were studied and recommend a preliminary concept to be carried forward for future evaluation. Please join us anytime between 4 and 8 pm. Please contact the Study Team with any questions. Web site: www.marc.org/transportation/smc/ Hotline: 913-312-4911 E-mail: southmetro@hntb.com back to top Summertime Arts & Crafts Festival is May 19 at Antioch Park Arts and crafts of all types will be on display when the Johnson County Park and Recreation District conducts its twenty-second annual arts and crafts festival, The Summertime Arts & Craft Festival. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 19 in Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch Road. Invited are artists of original works including drawing, painting, sculpture, fiber arts, woodcarving, jewelry, pottery, and folk arts. This will be the tenth year the arts and crafts festival is held in conjunction with Merriam's Turkey Creek Festival, also in Antioch Park on May 19. Other Festival activities will include: a pancake feed from 7 to 11 a.m., the "One Hill of a Run," a parade at 11 a.m., free concerts, a petting zoo, pedal boat rides, hands-on arts and crafts for kids, and giant air structures and inflatables. Booth space for the arts and crafts show is still available. For more information, contact Fine Arts Coordinator Marsha Norman at (913) 631-7050 ext. 443. For information on other Festival events, contact Merriam Parks and Recreation at (913) 322-5550. back to top Sailing I & II Classes Offered in late May and Early June Learn the basic and intermediate skills of sailing through two classes being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. The classes are Sailing I & II. Both classes are for ages 18 and older. In Sailing I, participants will learn about types of boats, launching techniques, docking, maintenance, and safety. This class consists of two indoor lecture sessions and four water sessions. The indoor sessions will take place beginning at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 29 and Thursday, May 31 at the John Barkley Visitors Center at Shawnee Mission Park, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee. The water sessions will take place at 9 a.m. Saturday beginning June 2 at Shawnee Mission Park Lake. The cost for two two-hour indoor session and four two-hour outdoor sessions is $59 per person for Johnson County residents or $65 for nonresidents. Sailing II will cover weather observation, two-sail rigging, twin-hull nomenclature, safety, trailering, and trailer maintenance. As a prerequisite, participants must have completed either an American Red Cross or JCPRD Sailing I class prior to enrollment. This class consists of two indoor lecture sessions and three water sessions. The indoor sessions will take place beginning at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 5 and Thursday, June 7 at the John Barkley Visitors Center at Shawnee Mission Park, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee. The water sessions will take place at 9 a.m. Saturday beginning June 9 in Shawnee Mission Park Lake. The cost for two two-hour indoor sessions and three three-hour outdoor sessions is $57 per person for Johnson County residents or $63 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. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Adult Beginning and Intermediate Golf Begins in Late May, Early June Beginning and intermediate golf lessons are being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District beginning in late May and early June. Golf lessons are for adults 18 and older and are instructed by PGA professionals. Beginning golf lessons include an introduction to the basics including stance, grip, etiquette, and rules. Intermediate lessons provide further refining of the fundamentals plus emphasis on the short game and wood shots. Participants should bring a nine iron or pitching wedge. Search for the keyword "golf" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Classes are offered at the Heritage Park Golf Course, 16445 Lackman, Olathe, and at the Tomahawk Hills Golf Course, 17501 Midland Drive, Shawnee. All classes begin at 6 p.m. Beginning courses are offered on Wednesday starting May 30 at Heritage Park and at Tomahawk Hills on Wednesday beginning June 6 and on Tuesday beginning June 5. Intermediate lessons are offered only at Heritage Park on Tuesdays beginning May 29. The cost for six 50-minute sessions is $66 for Johnson County residents or $73 for nonresidents. There is an additional fee for range balls, payable at each class. 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. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top JCPRD Beaches & Marinas Opening Soon Two beaches and three marinas operated by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District are scheduled to open soon for summer use. The facilities include: The Shawnee Mission Park Beach and Shawnee Mission Park Marina, both located in Shawnee Mission Park, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee; Kill Creek Park Beach and Marina, 11670 Homestead Lane, Olathe; and Heritage Park Marina, located in Heritage Park, 16050 Pflumm, Olathe. The marinas at Shawnee Mission and Kill Creek parks will open for the regular season on May 26, while the Heritage Park Marina will open on June 2. Shawnee Mission Park Marina will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily Monday through Saturday and noon to 8 p.m. Sunday through late July. Kill Creek Park Marina will be open from noon to 6 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday through Aug. 12. The Heritage Park Marina will through Aug. 5 and will be open from Noon to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday through Aug. 5. All three marinas offer boat rentals, including canoes, pedal boats, two-person sailboats, and fishing boats. Rentals rates are listed in the Summer Activities catalog, available now, and on the District's website at www.jcprd.com Fishing permits are also available at the marinas. The Shawnee Mission Park Beach and Kill Creek Park Beach will both open on June 2 and will be open through late July and Aug. 12, respectively. Shawnee Mission Park Beach will be open daily with Monday through Friday hours of Noon to 7:30 and Saturday and Sunday hours of Noon to 6 p.m. Kill Creek Park Beach will be open only on weekends with Friday, Saturday, and Sunday hours of noon to 6 p.m. Daily rates at either facility for children 12 and under adults over 50 are $3 for Johnson County residents and $3.50 for nonresidents. Admission for adults is $5 for Johnson County residents and $5.50 for nonresidents. Season passes or combined season passes are also available. This year's operating season at Shawnee Mission Park for both the beach and the marina will be shorter than usual due to plans to reduce the lake's water level by up to 10 feet beginning July 9 for lake improvements. Officials anticipate the drawdown will take two to three weeks to complete. Although a specific date has not been set, it is expected the beach and marina will be closed in late July after water levels at those facilities become too low for these activities. For more information during business hours, call (913) 236-1240 prior to opening dates. During the summer season, call (913) 492-2157 for the beaches or (913) 888-1990 for the marinas. back to top Free Fishing Weekend at JCPRD Parks is June 2 & 3 The Johnson County Park and Recreation District has established the weekend of Saturday, June 2 and Sunday, June 3 as the annual Free Fishing Weekend in District parks. This will coincide with the state of Kansas' "Free Fishing Days" in State Parks. Fishing, boating, and archery permits will be waived on these days in the District parks where these activities are normally allowed as follows: Park Permits Waived Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam Fishing Kill Creek Park, 11670 Homestead Lane, Olathe Fishing & Boating Heritage Park, 16050 Pflumm Road, Olathe Fishing & Boating Shawnee Mission Park, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee/Lenexa Fishing, Boating & Archery Streamway Parks, Various Access Points Fishing, Boating Thomas S. Stoll Memorial Park, 12500 W. 119th St., Overland Park Fishing Fishing permits have also been waived by the state of Kansas for this weekend, allowing fishing without a state license as well. Regular park hours for these days are 5:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. This is the only time each year license requirements are waived. For more information, call Mike Ray, Superintendent of Park Safety & Interpretation, at (913) 438-7275. back to top Three Water Exercise Classes Offered For 50 Plus Beginning June 4 Three different water exercise classes are being offered in early June by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. The programs are: Aquacise, Free Flow, and Total Water Workout. Aquacise and Free Flow take place at the Roeland Park Aquatic Center, 4843 Rosewood, Roeland Park, while Total Water Workout takes place at the Prairie Village Pool, 7720 Mission Road, Prairie Village. All three programs have classes starting on or about June 4. Class cost for any one of these three classes for 11 50-minute sessions is $36 per person for Johnson County residents or $40 for nonresidents. Classes will not meet on July 4. Search for the keywords "water exercise" to find these programs in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. In Aquacise, qualified instructors guide participants through various exercises. No swimming skills are necessary. This program is offered at 10 a.m. Monday and Wednesday beginning June 4, and is taught by Instructor Lucille Raines. Another class is offered at 9:45 a.m. Tuesday and Thursday beginning June 5 and is taught by Instructor Bernadette Wagner. Free Flow is an energizing aqua class held in deep water in order to give participants a great cardiovascular and toning workout. Because flotation belts are used, no swimming skills are necessary. This class is taught by Ronni Ward and meets at 11 a.m. Monday and Wednesday beginning June 4. Total Water Workout provides a vigorous level of water workout. Participants will use resistance equipment to challenge large and small muscle groups in order to work on flexibility, range of motion, and strengthening. This class is taught by Instructor Bernadette Wagner. Two class times beginning on June 4 are offered: one at 5:30 p.m. and another at 6:30 p.m. While the JCPRD's 50 Plus programs are primarily for people who are age 50 or older, interested parties who have not yet reached that magic age may still be able to attend. Persons 18 and older who are interested in a 50 Plus class are invited to call the District's Registration Department at (913) 831-3359, and if space is available without forfeiting the place of a person over 50, their registration can be taken. 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. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Mother's Day Out Offered at RPCC During June Young children will enjoy a day of creative learning and play opportunities during a Mother's Day Out program being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park, for ages three to five. This is an excellent way to introduce young children to a peer group setting and help them gradually adjust to being away from parents for an extended part of the day. Children should bring a sack lunch. Milk and snacks are furnished. Search for the keyword "childcare" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. June sessions begin June 1. Parents can choose the day of the week that best suits them and then sign their child up for four successive weeks on that day. Days cannot be mixed. The cost for four eight-hour sessions is $80 for Johnson County residents or $88 for nonresidents. To register in this program, please contact Roeland Park Childcare Director Betty Schuldt at (913) 722-1198. No online registrations are taken for this program. back to top May 30 is Registration Deadline for Jayhawk Baseball Camp Boys entering grades one through six during the 2007-08 school year are invited to participate in a Jayhawk Baseball Camp being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. The registration deadline for this year's camp is May 30. This four-day camp has a broad instructional format and will cover all aspects of the game. The youth-oriented program's goal is to give participants a jump on summer leagues and an opportunity to develop basic skills in the game of baseball, including throwing, fielding, hitting, and pitching. Drills, instructional sessions, games, and other exercises will be used. This camp will be staffed by University of Kansas Head Baseball Coach Rich Price. Participants should bring their own shoes (no steel cleats), a baseball glove, a bat, catching equipment, and practice attire. Search for the keywords "baseball camp" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Jayhawk Baseball camp will take place from 9 a.m. to noon June 4-7 at the Mid-America Sports Complex, 20000 Johnson Drive, Shawnee. The cost for four three-hour sessions is $130 per person for Johnson County residents or $143 for nonresidents. Registrations for this program are accepted by mail, fax (913-831-6336), online at www.jcprd.com, or in-person at the JCPRD Registration Office, Building C, Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam. For more information or for a flyer, call (913) 422-5599. back to top New Shape Up for Travelers Exercise Class Offered for 50 Plus Starting June 5 Helping travelers get the most out their vacations by getting in shape before they go is the goal of a new class being offered in early June by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. The program is called Shape Up For Travelers and will include walking to build endurance and upper body strength training to help travelers carry home more treasures from their travels. Search for the keyword "exercise" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This program is offered by Instructor Jane McDowell and will take place beginning at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday and Thursday beginning June 5 near the flagpole at Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam. The cost for 12 50-minute sessions is $42 per person for Johnson County residents or $46 for nonresidents. While the JCPRD's 50 Plus programs are primarily for people who are age 50 or older, interested parties who have not yet reached that magic age may still be able to attend. Persons 18 and older who are interested in a 50 Plus class are invited to call the District's Registration Department at (913) 831-3359, and if space is available without forfeiting the place of a person over 50, their registration can be taken. 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. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District’s website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Summer Season of Animal Tales Storytime Sessions Begins June 6 at Ernie Miller Nature Center A new season of Animals Tales Storytime sessions is beginning at the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Ernie Miller Nature Center in Olathe. Young children and their parents are invited to come listen and learn during any or all of the six sessions scheduled between June 6 and July 25. Animal Tales Storytime is for ages two to six. All children must be accompanied by an adult. This program will feature stories, songs, and surprises. Participants are invited to pack a lunch and stay for a picnic. All programs take place on Wednesdays beginning at 10:30 a.m. Search for the keyword "storytelling" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. The first program of this season will be offered on June 6 when the theme will be "ants." Other summer storytime sessions are scheduled for June 20 ("snakes"), July 11 ("fish"), and July 25 ("spiders"). 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 Pirate Treasure Hunt is Theme of New Youth Art Camp Beginning June 6 A pirate treasure hunt is the theme of a new art camp for youth being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District in early June. The program is called Pirate Treasure Hunt Camp and is for ages seven to ten. Participants will try to follow a pirate map to hidden treasure. Along the way, young buccaneers will learn to read a compass and a map and make pirate-related projects including a flag, a hat, an eye patch, and a treasure chest. Professional storyteller Melva Hargett will also share some pirate yarns. All materials are included. Search for the keyword "art" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Camp meets from 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesday through Friday, June 6-8 in Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam. The cost for three one-hour sessions is $30 per child for Johnson County residents or $33 per person for nonresidents. This program will be offered again on June 11-13. 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. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District’s website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Summer Adventure Walks for 50 Plus Start June 7 with Trip to Longview Lake Longview Lake just southeast of Kansas City will be the first of five destinations to be visited this year as part of Summer Adventure Walks being offered by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. These walks are meant to give participants an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and make new friends while visiting interesting regional scenic trails, nature sanctuaries, and state parks. Participants can choose one or all of the five summer walks. The Longview Lake walk will involve about three miles of walking on a smooth trail and will take place on June 7. Other summer walk dates and destinations are: June 20, Trice-Dedman Memorial Woods/Wallace State Park, near Cameron, Mo ; July 11, Watkins Woolen Mill State Park near Lawson, Mo.; July 19, Martha LaFite Thompson Nature Sanctuary near Liberty, Mo.; and July 25, the park district's own Kill Creek Park, Olathe. Adventure Walks are led by Instructor Sherry Hughes. All walks depart at 9 a.m. from Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam. In case of rain, the walk will be rescheduled for the following week. The cost for each five-hour outing, including van transportation to the walk site, is $15 per person for Johnson County residents or $16 for nonresidents. Participants should bring a sack lunch. If the weather interferes with plans during the day of the walk, lunch will be at a local restaurant and participants will be responsible for this expense. Search for the keyword "adventure walks" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. While the JCPRD's 50 Plus programs are primarily for people who are age 50 or older, interested parties who have not yet reached that magic age may still be able to attend. Persons 18 and older who are interested in a 50 Plus class are invited to call the District's Registration Department at (913) 831-3359, and if space is available without forfeiting the place of a person over 50, their registration can be taken. 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. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District’s website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Knights in Shining Armor program Offered For Youth on June 11 Brave young ones seeking knighthood are called to the round table through a program being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District called Knights in Shining Armor. This program is for ages four through eight. Participants will make shining shields and hats. Following a knighting ceremony, participants will visit castles and search for dragons through storybook pages with storyteller Melva Hargett. Search for the keyword "art" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Knights in Shining Armor is offered on June 11 and will take place beginning at 10:30 a.m. on the east side of Building A, Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch Road, Merriam. All supplies are included. The cost for one 60-minute session is $12 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. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District’s website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Summer Reading Club The 2007 summer reading clubs at Johnson County Library begin on Tuesday, May 29 and run through Sunday, August 5. This year, readers and listeners of all ages are encouraged to investigate the exciting world of books, magic and mysteries by keeping a log of books read and by attending library programs throughout the summer. The theme for kids in fifth grade and under is Get a Clue @ Your Library; grades six and up may participate in YNK (You Never Know) @ Your Library. The Library will once again offer a reading program for all levels of educators and librarians, Report Not Required. Reading logs are available at all Johnson County Library locations or may be printed from the Library’s summer reading Web site, www.jocolibrary.org/summerreading. Summer reading program participants set their own goals for summer reading, record their books on their reading logs, and return the logs to the library July 6- August 5. Participants who complete the program will receive a free paperback book—provided by Friends of the Johnson County Library—while supplies last. Weekly prize drawings will also be held during the summer at each library location. For more information about Johnson County Library summer programs check the library’s web site: www.jocolibrary.org or pick up an activity calendar any Johnson County Library location. back to top Library’s annual Used Book Sale to be held June 7-9 at Metcalf South The Johnson County Library will hold the 19th Annual Sizzlin’ Summer Used Book Sale in cooperation with Friends of the Library at Metcalf South Shopping Center, 9635 Metcalf, Overland Park, KS, in early June. Sale dates and hours will be: Thursday, June 7, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, June 8, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, June 9, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. A “Friends Only” Preview Sale will be held on Wednesday, June 6, from 6 to 9 p.m. which requires a current Friends of the Library membership card which may be purchased at the door. According to Marsha Bennett, Community Relations Coordinator for Johnson County Library, the popular Sizzlin’ Summer Used Book Sale is one of the largest and best book sales in the region and a very popular community recycling event. “Approximately 2500 boxes of gently used books and audiovisual materials that have been donated or withdrawn from the library’s collection will be offered at the sale on the lower level of the mall near Sears. Most items are priced at $1.00 and 50 cents each with some items specially marked. They will be arranged in easy to find categories,” she stated. Proceeds from the sale benefit the library. Last year’s sale raised $42,000.00. All sales will be final. Cash, check, MasterCard and Visa will be accepted with identification. Items offered in the sale include: Hardback and paperback books Fiction and non fiction books Coffee table type books Adult and children’s materials Books and music on tape Movies and instructional videos Music CDs, books on tape Business and computer books Cookbooks, craft books, repair manuals and instruction books Biography, travel, religion, large print, history, business, sports and recreation, self-help, sciences, art, literature and much more In addition to the annual book sale, the Johnson County Library and Friends of the Library cosponsor smaller book sales and operate two used book stores which are open year round, one at the Antioch Library and one at the Blue Valley Library. Founded in 1956, the Friends of the Johnson County Library has provided more than 50 years of support to the Johnson County Library and has a membership base of more than 800. To join the Friends and support the Library, visit http://friends.jocolibrary.org, call (913) 261-2319 or pick up membership information at any Johnson County Library location. back to top Shawnee Mission Park Off-leash Improvement Plans to Be Subject of June 6 Public Information Meeting A public information meeting to discuss improvements planned later this year at Shawnee Mission Park’s Off-Leash Area has been set for June 6. The meeting will take place from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Administration Building, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee. The informational meeting will feature exhibits and plans demonstrating proposed modifications to the dog off-leash beach, access to the beach, and other amenities. The meeting will be conducted by Johnson County Park and Recreation District staff with assistance from LHE, PA of Lenexa, the engineering consultant for this project. Participants will be able to take a look at the proposed plans and provide feedback. The entire project is expected to cost $250,000 and includes re-grading the off-leash area’s dog beach to improve access and safety. The project will involve the construction of a paved maintenance road as well as a concrete sidewalk built to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements for recreational trails. The beach will be regraded and covered with river gravel and new trees will be planted to give shade in the upper area of the beach, which will be slightly larger than it is now. Officials expect the project will be bid in July with work beginning in late August. It is anticipated the dog beach area could be closed for up to two months. Efforts will be made to make other portions of the off-leash area available during the project, but they could be closed periodically as well. The off-leash area project is scheduled for this summer in order to take advantage of plans to lower the lake level at the park by as much as 10 feet for other projects. Lowering of the lake will begin July 9. The drawdown is required to facilitate silt removal and the construction of wetlands which will use native plants to filer silt and pollutants entering the lake. Improvements are also planned for the lake dam to improve fishing access and repair the rip-rap on the face of the structure. For more information about the June 6 meeting, contact Cliff Middleton at (913) 894-3343. back to top Registrations Being Taken for Girls Volleyball Camp to Begin June 11 Registrations are now being taken for a Girls Volleyball Camp being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. This program is for girls entering grades three through nine during the 2007-2008 school year and will stress the basic theories used in the game of power volleyball. This will include basic offensive/defensive strategies and skill development. Participants will be divided into groups based on age and ability. Staff for this program consists of area high school volleyball coaches. Search for the key words "volleyball camp" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities catalog and online listings. Camp begins June 11 and participants can choose between a 9 a.m. or 1 p.m. program. Both will take place at the Okun Fieldhouse, located within the Mid-America West Sports Complex, 20200 Johnson Drive, Shawnee. Practice time at the domes will also be available. The cost for four three-hour sessions is $60 per person for Johnson County residents or $66 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. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District’s website at www.jcprd.com. back to top American Girl® Camp Offered Beginning June 11 Girls ages seven to ten can step back in history through an American Girl® Art Camp being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. The American Girls Collection® involves engaging stories about girls living at important times in the past which bring history to life for grade-school girls. Campers will explore the past and discover what life was like during the times of these characters. Participants will visit Molly as she lives through World War II, travel to colonial days with Felicity, go to Minnesota with Swedish pioneer girl Kirsten, and join Samantha as she learns what it means to be "a proper young lady" at the turn of the century. Along the way, campers will enjoy stories, craft projects, and other hands-on activities. Search for the keyword "art" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This program will meet at 10 a.m. Monday through Thursday beginning June 11 at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. The cost for four 90-minute sessions is $55 per girl for Johnson County residents or $61 per girl for nonresidents. This will be the first of five sessions of this camp offered this summer. Other sessions are scheduled to begin June 18, July 9, July 23, and July 30. 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. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District’s website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Girls' Session of Let's Get Growing Health Education Program Offered During June An interactive program where parents and their children can learn together about puberty, hygiene, reproduction, and social development is being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District, in association with the Johnson County Health Department. The program is called Let’s Get Growing! and is for ages nine through 12 with a parent. The sessions for girls are being offered during June at the Olathe offices of the Johnson County Public Health Department at 11875 S. Sunset Dr. Separate sessions for boys will take place beginning July 12 in Mission. Through games, videos, and discussions, facilitators will convey factual information in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. The class encourages communication within the family, especially in the area of sexuality. Prior to the start of the girls program, an informational meeting with parents of participating girls will take place from 7 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, June 5. In the first regular class session, which will take place on June 12, girls and their parent will learn about female anatomy and physiology in addition to the normal changes to expect in puberty. During the second class on June 19, girls will learn about male anatomy, reproduction, and fetal development. Both regular class sessions will take place beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Olathe site. The cost for one one-hour parents session and two two-hour sessions with both parents and their child is $25 for Johnson County residents or $28 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. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District’s website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Bubble Makers and Airplane Excitement Program is June 13 Paper Airplanes and Soap Bubbles are two favorite outdoor summer activities and the topics of a program for youth being presented by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District Bubble Makers and Airplane Excitement is an opportunity for participants to use a variety of common household items such as coat hangers, plastic six-pack holders, straws, and more, to create bubbles. Participants will also create a variety of paper airplanes. Search for the keyword "art" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This program is for children ages five to eight and will take place under the big sycamore trees at the Tomahawk Recreation Complex, 17501 Midland Drive, Shawnee. This program is offered at 3:30 p.m. on June 13. The cost for one 60-minute session is $4 per person for Johnson County residents or $5 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. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District’s website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Family Canoe Lessons Offered on June 13 at Shawnee Mission Park Introduce your family to the fun sport of flatwater canoeing through a workshop being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. Family Canoe Lessons are for ages 10 and up and are designed for beginners. Children up to age 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The program will feature a combination of lecture and hands-on experience. Family canoe lessons are offered at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, June 13 at the Shawnee Mission Park boat ramp, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee. The cost for one two and one-half hour session is $13 per person for Johnson County residents or $14 per person for nonresidents. Search for the keyword "boating" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. 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. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District’s website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Two Theater Classes Offered for Youth During June Children can get an introduction to the theater through two classes offered beginning in June by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. The classes are: Basic Drama for ages nine to 14 and Storybook Theater for ages four to eight. Both classes will take place at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. The last session of each program will include a short program for parents. The cost for either program for four 60-minute sessions is $40 per person for Johnson County residents or $44 per person for nonresidents. Search for the keyword "theater" to find these programs in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Basic Drama will provide instruction in basic theater skills of movement, voice, diction, improvisation, and script reading. The goal is to improve participants' self esteem and make them more comfortable speaking in front of a group. This program meets at 10:30 a.m. Saturday beginning June 9. Designed for young thespians ages four through eight, Storybook Theater will introduce participants to acting and help develop their imaginations as they have fun. Each week, a different storybook tale will be acted out. This program meets at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday beginning June 13. 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. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District’s website at www.jcprd.com. back to top 50 Plus Walkers will Picnic at Shawnee Mission Park, Hike Along Streamway for June 13 Outing A picnic in Shawnee Mission Park and a hike in the nearby Mill Creek Streamway Park are planned for June 13 as an adventure walk outing being offered by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. The program is called Summer Stroll Through Streamway Park. The hike will involve a walk of about three miles on a smooth surface. Participants are asked to bring a potluck dish and burgers, beverages, and utensils will be provided. Participants will enjoy reminiscing about past hikes and sharing ideas for future adventure walks. Adventure Walks are led by Instructor Sherry Hughes. This walks depart at 9 a.m. from Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam. In case of rain, the walk will be rescheduled for the following week. The cost for each five-hour outing, including van transportation to the walk site, is $15 per person for Johnson County residents or $16 for nonresidents. Search for the keyword "adventure walks" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. While the JCPRD's 50 Plus programs are primarily for people who are age 50 or older, interested parties who have not yet reached that magic age may still be able to attend. Persons 18 and older who are interested in a 50 Plus class are invited to call the District's Registration Department at (913) 831-3359, and if space is available without forfeiting the place of a person over 50, their registration can be taken. 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. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Ernie Miller Park Amphitheater Programs Offered on June 15 & 22 Bring the family to the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Ernie Miller Park Amphitheater on Friday evenings during June for educational and entertaining programs. The programs last about an hour and are designed for all ages. A charge of $1.75 per person helps cover the cost of the programs; children under two are free. June presentations include: June 15 Birds of Prey - By day or by night, out of the sky flies a rodent's nightmare, the birds of prey. Learn why rodents fear these great birds and see close-up examples of these majestic raptors and their special adaptations. June 22 Snakes Alive - Why is it that these creatures seem so terrifying? Could all the stories you have heard about snakes be true? See Kansas snakes as we explore the facts and fallacies of these legless wonders of the natural world. For more information on amphitheater programs, call (913) 764-7759. back to top KidFest Event Returning to Antioch Park on June 16 Following success in 2005 and 2006, the KidFest event will be back from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on June 16. This event is being presented by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Children's Service's Department and will take place at Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam. This event was first presented in 2005 as part of the District's year-long 50th anniversary celebration and was so successful the Children's Services Department made it a regular event. Planned for this year's four-hour event are a variety of activity booths, including face and hair painting, ring and bean-bag tosses, tile painting, bead jewelry making, a cake walk, crown decorating, and more. These booths will be located near the recently-renovated Dodgetown playground and near Antioch Park's administration buildings and will be manned by staff from Children's Services' 24 afterschool and five preschool programs. Also planned are: moon walks, a Build-It Workshop sponsored by Lowe's Home Improvement Warehouse, a Kansas Speedway Pace Car, a fire truck from the City of Merriam, a concession area, and more. Admission will be $4 for a child's wristband and adults are free with a canned food donation. Kids under two are free. Advance registration is not required for this event. For more information, contact Childrens Services Specialist Rob Knaussman at (913) 236-1250. back to top Tenth Annual kids' Fishing Rodeo for Ages 12 and Under is June 16 At Shawnee Mission Park The Tenth Annual Kids Fishing Rodeo at Shawnee Mission Park Lake, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee, will take place from 9 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 16. This event is free to the public and is being presented by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District and Crappie USA Inc. Kids ages 12 and under are invited to bring their mom and dad and participate. Registration will begin at 8 a.m. at Shelter No. 3, near the Shawnee Mission Park Marina. The first 100 kids will receive a gift pack containing coupons and fishing supplies and qualify for a national drawing for a $5,000 scholarship. Fishing will take place from 9 to 11 a.m. Prizes will be presented for the highest total accumulative length of all fish caught and for big fish. Participants should bring their own bait and tackle. Please remember length limits do apply, so please check park regulations. Also, anglers ages 16 to 64 will need the applicable Kansas and JCPRD fishing permits. For more information about this event, please contact Park Ranger Billie Thompson at (913) 894-3362. back to top