Johnson County, Kansas, Homepage - Feature Stories for 2008

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	OCTOBER - 2008 50 Plus Plans Art Galleria on Oct. 16 at Olathe 50 Plus Center An Art Galleria event being planned at the Olathe 50 Plus Center, 311 E. Park, Olathe, will be an opportunity to enjoy art by local artists as well as to enjoy food and entertainment. The event will take place from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 16, and will feature works by talented 50 Plus artists, tasty finger foods and sparkling beverages, as well as live music. A prize drawing is also planned. The cost for this one and one-half hour event is $8 per person. For reservations, call (913) 782-1878. back to top Stories by Fireside program offers thrills for two age groups Everyone loves a spooky story. A program being offered at the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Ernie Miller Park in Olathe will carry on this tradition with age-appropriate stories for two age groups at different times. The program is called Stories by Fireside and will take place on Saturday, Oct. 18 at the Ernie Miller Nature Center, which is located at 909 N. Kansas-7 Highway, Olathe. From 6 to 7:15 p.m., Not-So-Scary stories will be presented for younger listeners. From 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., Scarier Stories will be presented for older listeners. For both sessions, children must by accompanied by an adult parents or guardian. Park naturalists will spark participants' imaginations with tales told by the fireside. Search for the keyword "storytelling" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. The cost is $3 per person per session, including adults, paid on-site, but because space is limited, reservations are required. For more information or to make reservations, contact the Nature Center at (913) 764-7759. back to top 50 Plus plans Fall Adventure Walk on the Konza Prairie on Oct. 22 An opportunity to walk on the Konza Prairie Trail near Manhattan, Kan., is being offered by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District in late October. The program is called Konza Prairie Trail Adventure Walk and will take place on Oct. 22. The Konza Prairie preserves 8,616 acres of prairie winding through the Flint Hills of central Kansas. Participants will hike the nature trail and the King's Creek loop for an adventure of about 4.7 miles. There are steep hills involved, but the view is well worth the effort and makes this the most popular destination of the Adventure Walks program. 50 plus walks are led by Instructor Tiffany Glaser. This program will depart at 8 a.m. from Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam. The cost for this eight -hour outing, including van transportation to the walk site, is $21 per person for Johnson County residents or $22 for nonresidents. Lunch will be in Manhattan and is not included in the fee. Search for the keywords "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 Shawnee Mission & Heritage Park Trout Stocking set for Oct. 22 The public is invited to come watch as rainbow trout are stocked in Shawnee Mission Park and Heritage Park Lakes in late October. Up to 2,100 pounds of rainbow trout will be stocked in the two lakes on Wednesday, Oct. 22. This will include up to 700 pounds of fish to be stocked near the Heritage Park Dam starting at approximately 2:30 p.m. and up to 1,400 pounds of fish to be stocked near the Shawnee Mission Park Lake boat ramp beginning at 3:45 p.m. Following the stockings, the two lakes will be closed to fishing until the parks' opening at 5 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25. Search for the keywords "fish stocking" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Before fishing in the lakes, area anglers ages 16 to 64 will need to have a Kansas fishing permit, a Johnson County Park and Recreation District fishing permit and a JCPRD trout fishing permit. District fishing and trout permits are available at: the JCPRD Registration Office, Building C, 6501 Antioch Road, Merriam; the John Barkley Visitor Center at Shawnee Mission Park; and at numerous local bait and tackle shops. Shawnee Mission Park is located at 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee, and Heritage Park is located at 16050 Pflumm, Olathe. Both facilities are owned and operated by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. For more information, call (913) 831-3359. back to top Ernie Miller Park Owl Prowl offered on Oct. 24 & 25 Great horned, barred, and screech owls make their home in Ernie Miller Park. Come learn more about these fascinating birds during the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Ernie Miller Nature Park Owl Prowl offered on two different dates this fall. The District's Interpretive Staff will lead an informative talk featuring two live owls. This will be followed by a hike into the night environment. You never know whooo you might spot! Come dressed for the weather. A cup of hot cider will conclude the hike. The program is for ages 16 and older as well as children ages five and up when accompanied by an adult. Search for the keyword "birding" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This one-session program will take place at Ernie Miller Park, 909 N. Kansas 7 Highway, Olathe, beginning at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 24, and Saturday, Oct. 25. The cost for one 90-minute session is $8 per person for Johnson County residents or $9 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. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Ernie Miller Nature Center Offers Live Animal Programs for Groups Three nature programs featuring live animals are being offered for groups by the Ernie Miller Nature Center, 909 North Kansas-7 Highway, Olathe, or at your location in Kansas. The programs are called Wildlife Who's Who/ Wildlife Webs, Snakes Alive, and Birds of Prey and are presented by Johnson County Park and Recreation District interpretive staff members. Search for the keywords "wildlife presentations" to find these programs in the JCPRD's Activities catalog and online listings. Each program lasts approximately 45 minutes and can be presented at the Ernie Miller Nature Center or at another location. Wildlife Who's Who/ Wildlife Webs is for grades four and up/kindergarten through third. Participants will meet several native animals and learn about their interrelationship with the food chain. Snakes Alive is a live snake presentation in which participants will explore the facts and fallacies of these legless wonders of the natural world. This program is for grades two and up. Birds of Prey is for grades four and up. Participants will get a close-up look at the special adaptations that make birds of prey some of nature's best hunters. This program will feature live examples of these majestic raptors. Cost for presentation of any of these programs for your group at the Ernie Miller Nature Center for one to 15 people is $30 for Johnson County residents or $33 for nonresidents. For 16 to 35 people, the cost is $37 for Johnson County residents or $41 for nonresidents. Cost for any presentation at your location for one to 35 people is $51 for Johnson County residents or $56 for nonresidents. The center's live animal programs are available in Kansas only. For more information or to schedule a program, call the Ernie Miller Nature Center at (913) 764-7759. back to top Senior Quest 2008: Celebrate Red, White Blue & You Johnson County government agencies, businesses and organizations will join together to present a special October event for the 50+ mature audience of Johnson County. Senior Quest 2008 Red, White and Blue…A Celebration of You! will take place Tuesday, October 14 from 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., at the Overland Park Convention Center, 6000 College Blvd. This is the premier expo event in Johnson County for seniors. It will be an inspiring day of patriotism, information, demonstrations, free health screenings, food, prizes, and entertainment. The event is free and open to the public. Free shuttle buses will be provided from the parking lot. “Senior Quest is the only senior event in the metro area which attracts over 2,500 seniors to a single location,” stated Kim Mayer, Human Services and Aging Public Information Officer, and event chair. “Today’s seniors are more active than ever and interested in enhancing their quality of life. This event will be filled with fun and information relevant to their lives and will feature over 130 exhibitors. It’s a ‘must-attend’ event for anyone over age 55 in Johnson County and a fun way to spend the day.” Senior Quest cosponsors include: Johnson County Government, Johnson County Community College Brown & Gold Club and The Kansas City Star. Free health screenings will include: spinal/posture analysis; blood pressure; blood glucose; height, weight and body mass index; bone density screening, vision testing; balance testing, macular degeneration screening; diabetic shoe fittings, and fall prevention tips. There will also be free legal advice for seniors. Entertainment and demonstrations will include: Don Accurso Orchestra Garland Woodson (singer) Ashley Cooper Billie Mahoney Dancers Continuous Bingo There will also be opportunities to meet with representatives from local attractions, museums and historical sites, some of the area’s hidden treasures. Surprise guests include historical figures from the past. Prizes drawings will also be held. The event is free and open to the public. No registration is required. Free parking is available with shuttle service to the front door. There will be additional parking at Black and Veatch (northwest lot) with free shuttle service. Interpretive services and other accommodations for those with special needs are available. Please request 48 hours in advance. For additional information, please call (913) 715-8999. back to top Leawood Pioneer Library undergoing year long expansion project The Johnson County Library will close the Leawood Pioneer library branch, 4700 Town Center Dr, Leawood, KS, on Thursday, October 2, to begin construction on a year long expansion project. The current library is 11,800 sq. ft. and an additional 8,000 sq. ft. will be added. Completion is expected in the fall of 2009. When it reopens the library will have a community meeting room, study rooms, teen space, additional materials and computer work stations, café area, and youth programming room. Library hours will also be expanded to offer service from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Sundays. A temporary library service point will open on Monday, October 6 at 10:00 a.m. in the nearby Town Center Shopping Center at 11832 Roe (the former Sharper Image store). A modest portion of books, DVDs, audio books and selected newspapers will be available at this location. Patrons may return items as well as pick up materials they have placed on hold at the temporary site. There will be some casual seating and 10 computers for public use. Printing and photocopying will also be available. The limited space, however, will prevent acceptance of donated books and audiovisual materials from the public. Hours of operation at the temporary site will be Monday—Thursday, 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.; Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Youth programming including storytimes will not be available at the temporary site, but will be offered at nearby branch locations: Corinth Library, 8100 Mission Rd., Prairie Village; Blue Valley Library. 9000 W. 151st, Overland Park; and Oak Park Library, 9500 Bluejacket, Overland Park. General obligation bonds in the amount of $5,665,000 will cover the costs of construction, equipment, new library materials and other project costs. This expenditure was authorized in the Board of County Commissioners 2008 budget as part of the Capital Improvement Plan. back to top Proposed Master Plan Presentations on three properties set for Oct. 22 at Shawnee Mission Park Consultants will present proposed master plans for Sunflower Nature Park in Eudora, as well as two large future park properties near Olathe and De Soto to the Johnson County Park and Recreation District Board of Commissioners on Oct. 22. The presentation by Bowman, Bowman and Novick will take place during a Committee of the Whole meeting which will begin at 5:30 p.m. This meeting precedes the Board's regular monthly meeting at 7 p.m., during which the Board is expected to consider formal action on the master plans. A discussion of possible permanent names for the future parks sites is also on the agenda. Both meetings will take place at the JCPRD Administration Building, in Shawnee Mission Park at 7904 Renner Road, Shawnee and Lenexa. The master plans are meant to guide future development of the existing 57-acre Sunflower Nature Park in Eudora as well as a 465-acre site just west of the De Soto City limits known as the Rieke Lake Property, and the 900-acre site west of Olathe currently known as the Cedar Niles Property. Formulating new plans for existing and future parks was a recommendation of the District's 20-year Master Action Plan, MAP 2020, which was put into place in 2001. MAP 2020 recognized a need to update development and renovation plans for various district parks as a guide for the next 20 years. In March, the District hired Bowman, Bowman and Novick of Kansas City, Mo., to prepare master plans for the three sites. Public input on the plans was sought through four well-attended workshops conducted in early June and early August. The proposed master plan for the Sunflower Nature Park will include a new park entry, a new shelter and restroom, a boardwalk, and an improved paved trail. At Cedar Niles, the proposal calls for a 25-acre off-leash area, including a five-acre small dog area; 16.9 miles of multiuse trials including 7.5 miles of gravel trail and 9.4 miles of paved trail; a 1.3-mile nature trail; a 2.2-mile mountain bike trail; trail access to Kansas Wildlife & Parks' Prairie Center Park; an equestrian parking lot; four sports practice fields; a sand volleyball court; an archery range build to Olympic standards; 16 acres of restored natural prairie; an observation tower similar to the one in Shawnee Mission Park; a wetlands area; and a planetary-themed display garden. The proposal for the Rieke Lake property includes: an amphitheater in a natural setting, a wetlands with a boardwalk, primitive campsites for families and individuals; a fishing dock, boat launch and marina; 3.1 miles of paved multiuse trail, a 1.4 mile unpaved hiking trial; a disc golf course; four sports practice fields; a five kilometer boys' cross country course and a three kilometer girls' cross country course. Information on the master plans will be posted on the District website at www.jcprd.com by Oct. 15 and those unable to attend the Oct. 22 meeting can email comments to JCPRDcomments@bbnarchitects.com by 5 p.m. on Oct. 21. back to top Oct. 10 is entry deadline for New Big Bad Pumpkin Race and Waterfront Bash at Shawnee Mission Park on Oct. 18 Oct. 10 is entry deadline for a wacky new fall event called the Big Bad Pumpkin Race and Waterfront Bash, which will take place on Oct. 18 in the parking lot near the marina at Shawnee Mission Park, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee and Lenexa. The event is being presented by the Childrens Services Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District and was inspired by a similar race in Manhattan Beach, Calif. In addition to the pumpkin contest, performances by family-friendly entertainers including: Magician Devin Henderson at 2 p.m.; Jim Cosgrove "Mr. Stinky Feet" at 3 p.m.; and Bongo Barry at 4 p.m. There will also be concessions, sidewalk pastel mural painting, free hayrides from the southeast corner of the parking lot, and "pumpkin chucking," which will involve throwing small pumpkins at a floating target in Shawnee Mission Park Lake The event is free to spectators, but there is a fee of $20 for each entry in the pumpkin race, which also includes a T-shirt, a memory photo, competitor ribbon, and a concession pass good for a free drink. Advance registration is required for all racers. For more information, visit http://jcprd.com/special_events/pumpkin_race.cfm or call (913) 236-1218. All pumpkins must be checked in and ready for inspection by 1 p.m. on Oct. 18. The race will be single-elimination style similar to "pinewood derby" races and will take place on a course in the marina parking lot which will be roughly 50 yards long. Under the event rules, each entry must be constructed from a single carved pumpkin and use two independent axles with wheels attached and which must run through the pumpkin. No chassis of any kind, such as skateboards or toy trucks, can be used and motorized enhancements are not allowed. A12-inch ramp will get the pumpkins rolling and the slope of the parking lot should do the rest. Trophies will be awarded to the top three competitors. Entries in violation of the rules will be allowed to race, but are disqualified from winning, although they can still be considered for the categories, which include: "best dressed," "best school pride," "best animal," "most likely to be impounded," "most awesome crash," "most cheerful," "best sports theme," "most unusual," "best chick magnet," "looks most like mom," "best Land of Oz character," and "most muscle." Booth space is also being sold for this event, and in addition to promoting their business or agency, booth participants must also provide an interactive activity. Call (913) 236-1218 for more information. back to top Itty Biddy & Biddy Basketball programs offered in late October Three instructional basketball programs for young children are being offered in late October by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. The programs are: Itty Biddy Basketball Clinic for boys and girls age four with a parent, a Biddy Basketball Clinic for girls and boys ages five to eight , and a Biddy Basketball Advanced Clinic for ages seven to nine. All three programs begin Saturday, Oct. 25. These programs are offered at the at the Roeland Park Sports Dome, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park, and at the Okun Fieldhouse at the Mid-America Sports Complex West, 20200 Johnson Drive. Search for the keyword "basketball" to find these programs in the JCPRD’s Activities Catalog and online listings. Biddy Basketball Clinic provides participants with instruction in the fundamentals of basketball. Ball-handling techniques, passing, dribbling, shooting, team work, and basic concepts of team strategy are covered with emphasis on sportsmanship. At Okun, a sessions for five-year-olds begins at 9 a.m., while a session for six-year-olds begins at 10 a.m. At Roeland Park, a session for five- to six-year-olds will take place at 9 a.m., while a session for ages seven and eight will take place at 10 a.m. The cost for six 50-minute sessions is $50 for Johnson County residents or $55 for nonresidents. Biddy Basketball Clinic Advanced is a six-week program of practices and games for ages seven through nine. Teams will be formed during the first class. This class is offered at 11 a.m. at both Okun and Roeland Park. The cost for six 50-minute sessions is $50 for Johnson County residents or $55 for nonresidents. Itty Biddy Basketball Clinic is designed to help develop fundamental skills in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Topics to be covered include ball-handling, passing, shooting, and sportsmanship. A parent must participate with their child in this program. This program is offered at 8 a.m. The cost for four 40-minute sessions 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. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Whimsical Woods Halloween program planned at Ernie Miller Park on Oct. 25 There's nothing scary about a Halloween special event being offered at the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Ernie Miller Park in late October. The program is called Whimsical Woods and is for ages 11 and younger accompanied by a parent or guardian. Participants will enjoy a walk on the park's trail with the award-winning staff of the Ernie Miller Nature Center. Costumed storybook characters will delight and entertain audiences of all ages. This program consists of a short trail walk with stations featuring interpreters who interact with participants. Participants will meet the Good Fairy and Forest Friends, as well as Little Miss Muffet and Goldilocks. In addition, there will be live animals, stories, and songs. Search for the keyword "Halloween" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Whimsical Woods will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25 at Ernie Miller Park, 909 N. Kansas-7 Highway. The cost is $4 per person, including adults, and is payable on-site. Please note that reservations are required and can be made by calling (913) 764-7759. 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 Mildale Farm Fall Fest set for Oct. 25 A Fall Fest being planned by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District for Oct. 25 will give members of the public an opportunity to explore the Mildale Farm property. The event is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will give interested parties access to the 158-acre site including the 22-acre rental property in southwest Johnson County as well as to about 136 acres which are actually part of the adjacent 578 acres of agricultural property, all of which was purchased by the District in 2005. Visitors will be directed to park in the large parking lot near Mildale Farm's main barn. A number of fall-related activities are being planned for the event, all of which will be free to the public. A large pumpkin patch will be situated in front of the main barn. Children 12 and under can pick out a pumpkin. Cider and hot cocoa will be provided in the barn, as will information on other District programs and activities. A tractor-drawn shuttle will take visitors to a fire circle in the south-central portion of the Mildale site, where they can roast marshmallows and enjoy storytelling by members of the District's Interpretive Staff. Staff from the Ernie Miller Nature Center will also lead nature walks to see some of the site's prairie habitat. Horse-drawn hayrides are also planned. A new activity being planned this year will involve fun trick photography sessions led by Community Relations Department staff members. Participants should bring their own cameras (either digital or film cameras will work) and some family members as several of the setups require two or more people. The 45-minute sessions will begin in front of the carriage barn at 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3:30 p.m. Participants should be prepared to walk about a half mile to various shooting locations. Camera expertise is not is required and all needed props will be provided for this free activity. No cameras will be provided or available so please remember to bring your own. Catch-and-release fishing in any or all of seven ponds within the 158-acre area will also be offered during Fall Fest. While District fishing permits have been waived for this event, anglers 16 and older will still need to have a Kansas fishing license. Visitors can also explore and picnic on the grounds. Restrooms will be available, but the property's two homes and other outbuildings will not be open during this event. The centerpiece of the Mildale Farm property is the high-quality equestrian-style barn, which features peg construction and a hand-laid brick floor. Though designed with an equestrian motif, the barn has never been used for keeping animals and has been utilized as a rental location for social functions, including weddings, family gatherings, and other social and business events. Inquiries regarding information or reservations for Mildale Farm should be directed to Keri Sanborn at (913) 236-1266. Rules for this event will be posted and will be the same as park rules in place on other District properties. Among them: no alcohol, pets must be on-leash, and vehicles must remain on roadways. Rangers will be on hand to enforce these as well as the catch-and-release fishing provision. Mildale Farm is located at 35250 W. 199th St.. From the north, take Interstate 35 south to Exit 207. Turn left (south) and drive one mile to 199th Street. Turn right and proceed 3.5 miles to the Mildale Farm entrance. From the south, take Interstate 35 North to Exit 202. Turn left on Sunflower and proceed about two miles. Turn right on East Fourth in Edgerton and follow it for about three blocks. Turn right on Highway 56 Highway and make a second right on 199th Street. The farm entrance will be about a quarter-mile ahead on the left. back to top JCPRD Children's Services Department Conducting Halloween-Themed Canned Goods Drive Through Oct. 30 Students enrolled in the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's 25 After School Programs will Trick-or-Treat for canned goods instead of candy again this year. On Halloween they will be going door to door, escorted by staff, into the neighborhoods around their schools to solicit donations for area food pantries. These kids want to do something to stop hunger. Assistance from the general public is also sought as collections boxes will be placed at two park office locations from Oct. 26 through 30. Those sites are: Building A, Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam; and the JCPRD Administrative Offices at Shawnee Mission Park, 7904 Renner Road, Shawnee. According to the Harvesters Community Food Network, the most-needed food items are: canned soup, vegetables, fruit, and meats, boxed meals, peanut butter and jelly and hot and cold cereal. Afterschool sites in the Shawnee Mission School District will be donating their collections to Feed the Need. Afterschool sites in the Gardner and De Soto school districts will be donating their canned goods to their respective local food pantries, which are both in dire need of contributions. Last year, the children conducted a similar project and were able to collect over 6,800 goods in a one-hour period. The Children’s Services Department hopes to collect even more this year. With public contributions, these kids can make a big impact on our community! For more information, contact Gardner Childrens Services Specialist Lisa Hughes at (913) 856-2493. back to top Red Hat Hayride offered on Nov. 1 at Shawnee Mission Park The third annual Red Hat Hayride will take place on Nov. 1 at Shawnee Mission Park, Johnson County Park and Recreation District officials recently announced. This event is for ages 50 plus and will take place beginning at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 1, at Shawnee Mission Park. The cost is $8 per person and also includes hot dogs, s'mores, and hot apple cider. Advance registration is required. To register, call (913) 782-1878 by Oct. 29. Participants will meet at "Site A" behind The Theatre in the Park, 7710 Renner Road, Shawnee. Search for the keyword "special events" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. back to top Stories by Fireside program offers thrills for two age groups Everyone loves a spooky story. A program being offered at the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Ernie Miller Park in Olathe will carry on this tradition with age-appropriate stories for two age groups at different times. The program is called Stories by Fireside and will take place on Saturday, Oct. 18 at the Ernie Miller Nature Center, which is located at 909 N. Kansas-7 Highway, Olathe. From 6 to 7:15 p.m., Not-So-Scary stories will be presented for younger listeners. From 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., Scarier Stories will be presented for older listeners. For both sessions, children must by accompanied by an adult parents or guardian. Park naturalists will spark participants' imaginations with tales told by the fireside. Search for the keyword "storytelling" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. The cost is $3 per person per session, including adults, paid on-site, but because space is limited, reservations are required. For more information or to make reservations, contact the Nature Center at (913) 764-7759. back to top 50 Plus Plans Fall Adventure Walk on the Konza Prairie on Oct. 22 An opportunity to walk on the Konza Prairie Trail near Manhattan, Kan., is being offered by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District in late October. The program is called Konza Prairie Trail Adventure Walk and will take place on Oct. 22. The Konza Prairie preserves 8,616 acres of prairie winding through the Flint Hills of central Kansas. Participants will hike the nature trail and the King's Creek loop for an adventure of about 4.7 miles. There are steep hills involved, but the view is well worth the effort and makes this the most popular destination of the Adventure Walks program. 50 plus walks are led by Instructor Tiffany Glaser. This program will depart at 8 a.m. from Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam. The cost for this eight -hour outing, including van transportation to the walk site, is $21 per person for Johnson County residents or $22 for nonresidents. Lunch will be in Manhattan and is not included in the fee. Search for the keywords "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 Shawnee Mission & Heritage Park Trout Stocking set for Oct. 22 The public is invited to come watch as rainbow trout are stocked in Shawnee Mission Park and Heritage Park Lakes in late October. Up to 2,100 pounds of rainbow trout will be stocked in the two lakes on Wednesday, Oct. 22. This will include up to 700 pounds of fish to be stocked near the Heritage Park Dam starting at approximately 2:30 p.m. and up to 1,400 pounds of fish to be stocked near the Shawnee Mission Park Lake boat ramp beginning at 3:45 p.m. Following the stockings, the two lakes will be closed to fishing until the parks' opening at 5 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25. Search for the keywords "fish stocking" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Before fishing in the lakes, area anglers ages 16 to 64 will need to have a Kansas fishing permit, a Johnson County Park and Recreation District fishing permit and a JCPRD trout fishing permit. District fishing and trout permits are available at: the JCPRD Registration Office, Building C, 6501 Antioch Road, Merriam; the John Barkley Visitor Center at Shawnee Mission Park; and at numerous local bait and tackle shops. Shawnee Mission Park is located at 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee, and Heritage Park is located at 16050 Pflumm, Olathe. Both facilities are owned and operated by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. For more information, call (913) 831-3359. back to top Ernie Miller Park Owl Prowl offered on Oct. 24 & 25 Great horned, barred, and screech owls make their home in Ernie Miller Park. Come learn more about these fascinating birds during the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Ernie Miller Nature Park Owl Prowl offered on two different dates this fall. The District's Interpretive Staff will lead an informative talk featuring two live owls. This will be followed by a hike into the night environment. You never know whooo you might spot! Come dressed for the weather. A cup of hot cider will conclude the hike. The program is for ages 16 and older as well as children ages five and up when accompanied by an adult. Search for the keyword "birding" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This one-session program will take place at Ernie Miller Park, 909 N. Kansas 7 Highway, Olathe, beginning at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 24, and Saturday, Oct. 25. The cost for one 90-minute session is $8 per person for Johnson County residents or $9 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. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Ernie Miller Nature Center Offers Live Animal Programs for Groups Three nature programs featuring live animals are being offered for groups by the Ernie Miller Nature Center, 909 North Kansas-7 Highway, Olathe, or at your location in Kansas. The programs are called Wildlife Who's Who/ Wildlife Webs, Snakes Alive, and Birds of Prey and are presented by Johnson County Park and Recreation District interpretive staff members. Search for the keywords "wildlife presentations" to find these programs in the JCPRD's Activities catalog and online listings. Each program lasts approximately 45 minutes and can be presented at the Ernie Miller Nature Center or at another location. Wildlife Who's Who/ Wildlife Webs is for grades four and up/kindergarten through third. Participants will meet several native animals and learn about their interrelationship with the food chain. Snakes Alive is a live snake presentation in which participants will explore the facts and fallacies of these legless wonders of the natural world. This program is for grades two and up. Birds of Prey is for grades four and up. Participants will get a close-up look at the special adaptations that make birds of prey some of nature's best hunters. This program will feature live examples of these majestic raptors. Cost for presentation of any of these programs for your group at the Ernie Miller Nature Center for one to 15 people is $30 for Johnson County residents or $33 for nonresidents. For 16 to 35 people, the cost is $37 for Johnson County residents or $41 for nonresidents. Cost for any presentation at your location for one to 35 people is $51 for Johnson County residents or $56 for nonresidents. The center's live animal programs are available in Kansas only. For more information or to schedule a program, call the Ernie Miller Nature Center at (913) 764-7759. back to top Grant Funding Enables Web access for inventory of Johnson County cemeteries Johnson County Library will enable names and dates on grave markers in Johnson County cemeteries to be more accessible to genealogists and other researchers. With assistance from a grant of $38,923 from the Johnson County Heritage Trust Fund, authorized on September 18 by the Board of County Commissioners, the Johnson County Library will implement its Digital Cemetery Project: Recording and Preserving Cemeteries in Johnson County. The grant funds will be used to complete and format an inventory of local cemeteries that will be accessible on a Web site managed by the Johnson County Library, www.jocohistory. Total project cost is $61,860, with the remainder of the funding provided by the library. Web Content Developer David LaCrone is managing the project. The full inventory of Johnson County cemeteries will include names, dates, grave locations, and photographs of grave markers. The existing Digital Cemetery Project Web site will be moved from private ownership and hosting to the Johnson County Library’s system, resulting in faster response time for users. The Digital Cemetery project began in 2005 and was born out of the need to capture and preserve historical and genealogical public information in Johnson County and make it accessible on the Web for world-wide availability. The site was envisioned and built by a local cemetery enthusiast and information technology professional, Linda K. Lewis. With grant funding, Ms. Lewis, library staff, and community volunteers will complete the project. Prior to this project, the only cemetery readings available were those done by the Johnson County Genealogical Society in the 1970s and available only in 25 year-old print editions. The goal of the Digital Cemetery Project is to promote learning about Johnson County, Kansas, history from the stories cemeteries have to tell and to explore the clues they give about the past. In addition to genealogy and family history, this project may result in secondary research such as land ownership, stone carving, community history, and much more. back to top New Youth Services Manager named at Johnson County Library Barbara Brand, Overland Park, has been named Youth Services Manager for the Johnson County Library (KS). She will manage services to children and teens in the County library system. Brand has been with Johnson County Library since 1996 as a Youth Services Librarian and was part of teams that opened the Blue Valley and Lackman Neighborhood Libraries. She was previously Juvenile Services Coordinator for the St. Tammany Parish (LA) Library System in Covington (LA). In the American Library Association, Brand served on the 2003 Caldecott Committee and is currently co-chair of the Association of Library Service to Children’s Quicklists Committee, which promotes children's books and other resources through recommendations and lists at the request of institutions, organizations, individuals and the mass media. Brand holds a B.A. from Mary Washington College of the University of Virginia and a Master of Library and Information Science from Louisiana State University. She and her husband, Denny, live in Overland Park and are the parents of two grown sons. back to top Halloween Dance and Costume Contest for 50 Plus is Oct. 31 at MRCC Nonstop music by the Playboys provides the backdrop for a ghoulish good time at a new Halloween Dance and Costume Contest being planned by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. This event will take place on Friday, Oct. 31, at the Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty, Overland Park. Refreshments will be provided and door prizes will be awarded. A special prize awaits the most creative costume. Search for the keywords "special event " to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This event will begin at 2 p.m. The cost for this two-hour event is $5 per person in advance or $6 at the door. To register for this program, call (913) 831-3359. 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. back to top Action Heroes Dance Class offered for ages 4-7 starting Nov. 1 Youth ages four to seven can have fun during an Action Heroes dance class being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. Participants should bring all their energy to this fast-paced activity class. Would-be heroes will jump as high as the tallest building, run as fast as the wind, crawl like spiders, and save the world. This program will build coordination and develop social skills while using up that extra energy. Search for the keyword "dance" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This program is being offered at 9 a.m. Saturday beginning Nov. 1 at the Academy of the Arts, 5413 Martindale, Shawnee. Class cost for four 50-minute lessons is $45 per person for Johnson County residents or $50 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. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Public Hayride offered on Nov. 2 at Shawnee Mission Park In addition to fall hayrides for organized groups, the Johnson County Park and Recreation District offers an annual opportunity for individuals and family members to enjoy the crisp autumn air from a tractor-drawn hayride without having to worry about reaching minimum numbers or placing a deposit. Advance registration is required. The public hayride will take place at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 2, at Shawnee Mission Park. The cost is $5.50 per person and advance registration is required. Like the group program, this hayride will last approximately 60 minutes, and will be followed by a 60-minute campfire with apple cider and marshmallows. Participants will meet at "Site A" behind The Theatre in the Park, 7710 Renner Road, Shawnee. For anyone interested in group hayrides, spaces are still available through Nov. 23 at both Shawnee Mission Park and at Heritage Park, 16050 Pflumm Road, Olathe. Organized group hayrides also cost $5.50 per person but require a minimum of $65 and a $30 deposit due at the time the reservation is made. Search for the keyword "hayrides" to find these programs in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. To sign up for the public ride or to schedule a group ride, call the JCPRD Reservations Department at (913) 831-3359. back to top 50 Plus plans Fall Harvest Adventure Walk in Weston on Nov. 5 The Red Barn Farm in Weston, Mo., will be the site of an adventure walk being offered by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District in early November. The program is called Fall Harvest and will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 5. Participants can explore this farm featuring traditional crops and animals and pick their own apples and pumpkins, brave the 25-acre corn maze, and visit the country store. This walk is expected to require an easy level of exertion. Adventure Walks are led by Instructor Tiffany Glaser. This program will depart at 9 a.m. from Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam. The cost for one five-hour outing, including van transportation, is $21 per person for Johnson County residents or $23 for nonresidents. Participants will enjoy lunch at a Weston restaurant on their own. 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 Animal Tales Storytime Sessions Continue on Nov. 5 & 19 at Ernie Miller Nature Center Owls and Pilgrims are the themes of the final two fall Animal Tales Storytime sessions planned at the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Ernie Miller Nature Center in Olathe. Animal Tales Storytime is for ages two to six. All children must be accompanied by an adult. This popular program features stories, songs, and surprises. Participants will meet a special animal friend at each session. All programs take place on Wednesdays beginning at 10 a.m., with a repeat program at 11 a.m. Search for the keyword "storytelling" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. A session on Nov. 5 will discuss owls, while a session on Nov. 19 will focus on Pilgrims. The cost per 30-minute session is $2 per person, including adults, payable at the event. Advance registrations are not necessary for this program. For more information, contact the Nature Center at (913) 764-7759. back to top New Night Life Owl Prowl and Star Party event planned on Nov. 7 & 8 Come join the night life at the TimberRidge Adventure Center through a new special event being offered on two consecutive nights in early November by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. The event is called the Night Life Owl Prowl and Star Party and will take place on Friday, Nov. 7, and Saturday, Nov. 8. This program is for ages 10 and older and is not recommended for younger children because of rough trails and darkness. Participants will join park naturalists to hike by moonlight and listen for owls and other nocturnal creatures. Weather permitting, participants will also view the stars and watch for meteors in a dark sky beyond much of the city lights. After the hike, hot cider will be provided. Participants should dress for the weather and bring binoculars and flashlights. Search for the keyword "birding" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. The TimberRidge Adventure Center is located at 12300 South Homestead Lane, Olathe, and is a 200+ acre facility adjacent to Kill Creek Regional Park, which the District also owns and operates. TimberRidge, which was dedicated in late April of 2002, is accessible via an entrance which is separate from and south of the main entrance to Kill Creek Regional Park. With the exception of an annual open house in April, the facility is accessible only by reservation or as part of programming. The Night Life Owl Prowl and Star Party begins at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 7, and Saturday, Nov. 8. The cost for either two-hour program is $11 per person for Johnson County residents or $12 for nonresidents. Space is limited and 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, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top 50 Plus Plans Veterans Day Celebration and Writing Contest on Nov. 10 The Johnson County Park and Recreation District's 50 Plus Department is planning a Veteran's Day Celebration and writing contest on Nov. 10 at the Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty, Overland Park. Participants in this two -hour special event can join members of the color guard as they raise the flag and honor veterans. Chris Cakes will provide pancakes and sausage. Veterans will eat free, thanks to event sponsor Park Meadows Senior Living of Overland Park. For family members and members of the public, there will be a $6 charge for breakfast. Entertainment for the event will be provided by the Billie Mahoney Dancers and the Overland Stage Chorus with music especially for veterans. Search for the keyword "celebration" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. In addition, the winners of a Veterans Day-themed writing contest will share their memories and first, second, and third prizes will be awarded. Those wanting to enter the contest should submit their entries by Nov. 3. Writers are asked to submit stories from war times when sugar and other supplies were rationed, when there were no nylons to wear, or when they were stuck in a foxhole for hours at a time. Were you a Rosie the Riveter? How did you keep your spirits up while you were away from home? Do you still have a favorite love letter from those times you would be willing to share? Submit entries to: Overland Park 50 Plus Office, Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty, Overland Park, KS 66204 or call (913) 642-6410 for alternate entries. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pickup 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 Park District accepts donation of property and easements A resident's donation of land and easements will give the Johnson County Park and Recreation District the opportunity to build a streamway park along a portion of Camp Branch Creek and preserve about 60 acres of pristine land in southeast Johnson County. During its Oct. 22 regular meeting at the JCPRD Administration Building in Shawnee Mission Park, the District's Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the donations from G. Kenneth Baum. "The Baum gift is exciting news," commented Board Chair James Azeltine. "This is a very exciting evening for us." "It's going to be a thrill for us to add this to our existing park land out there," added Board Member Nancy Wallerstein. The land in question is located just west of Mission Road between 167th and 175th streets. Baum is making an outright donation of approximately 25 acres and granting the District conservation easements on an additional 35 acres. The conservation easements will allow the District to preserve the natural assets of the land in perpetuity and to build a trail slightly more than a mile in length across the three properties. Superintendent of Parks and Golf Courses Bill Maasen said he is hopeful this section of trail can be completed by 2010. Under the terms of the agreement, development on the land being donated outright is limited to the construction of bike and/or horse trails as well as a parking lot and trailhead near 175th Street. The conservation easement property "shall remain private property that is held at its present state in perpetuity." The District already owns an additional 237 acres to the south as a future park location. Park officials said the District's plan is to eventually connect the trail on the donated property and easements with the agency's existing two miles of trail in the Blue River Streamway Park to the north, but this will require the future acquisition of connecting property from other property owners. Baum first publicly announced his intention to make the donations during the Board's April 16 meeting. Since that time, Baum and his attorney, Fred Logan, have been working with District staff to formalize an agreement for the donations. "In all fairness to both sides, this is a spectacular donation," District Legal Counsel Bill Tuley told the Board during the Oct. 22 meeting. Baum was not able to attend the October meeting, but Logan told Board Members Baum has been considering making a donation to the county agency for well over a year. Initially, Logan said, his client had planned to donate about nine acres. He added that the 60 acres now included in the donations are among the most environmentally sensitive in the county, and contain one of the county's last intact stream systems. During the April meeting, Baum told the Board that the land includes trees which are 400 years old. . Documents involved in the transaction also state the property includes two emergent wetland communities, a unique prairie glade, one of the last intact stream systems in the county, and sycamore-black walnut riparian and oak-hickory woods, as well as wildlife habitats. Of the approximately 600 acres Baum once owned in the area, 330 acres are already in a conservation easement with the Nature Conservancy. In July 2007, Baum donated about 15 acres to the District for use as part of the Blue River Streamway Park, to the west and north of the recent donation. For more information, contact: Superintendent of Parks and Golf Courses Bill Maasen (913) 909-3032 Community Relations Manager Randy Knight (913) 909-3334 back to top JCPRD Board approves master plans for three park properties Master plans for Sunflower Nature Park in Eudora, as well as two large future park properties near Olathe and De Soto, were approved during the Johnson County Park and Recreation District Board of Commissioners' regular monthly meeting on Oct. 22 at the JCPRD Administration Building, in Shawnee Mission Park. The master plans were approved unanimously and are meant to guide future development of the existing 57-acre Sunflower Nature Park near De Soto as well as a 465-acre site just west of the De Soto city limits known as the Rieke Lake Property, and the 900-acre site west of Olathe currently known as the Cedar Niles Property. Board members agreed to consider permanent names for the two future park properties at another time. Prior to the Board's regular meeting, the body conducted a Committee of the Whole meeting during which Consultant PJ Novick of Bowman, Bowman and Novick of Kansas City, made a presentation on the master plans. Novick explained that formulating the master plans was an eight-month process which included exploration of the sites by staff and consultants, public workshops conducted in June, preliminary design, a second set of public workshops in August, and preparation of the final report incorporating input from the public and staff. Each of the four workshops was attended by about 30 to 35 people. Novick also detailed plans for each of the park sites. Sunflower Nature Park The most significant changes called for in the Sunflower Nature Park master plan will involve shifting the park entrance from its current location on 103rd Street further west near Edgerton Road. With the new entrance, a new picnic shelter, playground, restroom, and playground will be built to serve both the passive park uses on the east three-quarters of the park and the baseball fields on the west side. Once the new amenities are built, the existing shelter, restroom , parking lot and connecting trail segment would be removed. Another major element of the plan involves installing a boardwalk across the existing pond with benches and interpretive signage. Trail improvements are also called for to improve accessibility . Total costs for plan implementation of the master plan at Sunflower have been estimated at $1.2 million. This could be done in two phases including $507,650 for the boardwalk and trail improvements, and $712,738 for the relocation of the park entrance and new parking, playground, and shelter amenities. Rieke Lake Site In planning the Reike Lake site, consultants considered both the property's 27-acre lake and the north half of the park with its steeper slopes, thick vegetation,stacked stone walls, and the historic Crozier spring. Anticipating the lake will attract the largest concentration of people, the plan's general layout calls for the concentration of amenities around the south and east side of the lake, while keeping the north half to less intensive uses. The master plan includes a park headquarters on the south side of the lake overseeing a marina for non-motorized vessels. Also planned are a fishing dock, boat launch, parking and a small shelter, and a boardwalk across a wetlands area on the lake's southwest tributary. On the east side of the lake, two shelters are planned, including one which will accommodate over 100 people. Near this large shelter, a grassy amphitheater is planned, as are parking, restrooms, sand volleyball courts, and a playground. Developments on the west side of the lake have been limited to just two small picnic shelters. A 3.1 mile paved walking trail will connect the two sides. Anticipating a need for some level of active recreational use, an area to the southeast near the park entrance which is currently used as cropland would be the site of four unlighted multipurpose athletic practice fields, as well as parking and restrooms. An 18-hole disc golf course would also start and end from this parking lot. Planned for the northwest corner are two looping high school cross country courses, including a five kilometer boys' course and a four kilometer girls' course. One unique feature of this park within the county park system would be primitive campsites for families and individuals. Planned are nine primitive tent camping sites which visitors would have to hike to and which would be regulated by a reservation system, patrolled by park police, and potentially served by interpretive programs at the amphitheater. The campsites would be flat openings in the forested area with fire rings. A shelter, restrooms, water, and trash disposal would be available at the parking lot. In response to questions from the Board, the consultant said there was potential to expand the number of sites. Planned for the northwest corner of the park site is a 3.1 mile paved hiking trail loop. The plan also notes potential future opportunities to link the park's trails to those in other parks include Kill Creek Park and De Soto's Widow Big Knife Park. Costs for implementing the Rieke Lake master plan have been estimated at $9.6 million. Consultants have spread this over three phases including: Phase 1 at $4,118,161 which would include the picnic pavilion and multi-use trail; Phase 2 at #2,467,855 including the athletic and tent camping areas; and Phase 3 at $3,099,584, which would include the marina and park headquarters. Cedar Niles Site As the largest of the three sites, the park property known as Cedar Niles sprawls in a largely linear form and stretches nearly two miles between 119th and 135th streets. The property includes perennial streams, dramatic topography, and diverse plant life. Based on public input from the public workshops, this site will be devoted largely to passive uses with a system of multiuse trails extending from the north to south end. These are meant to bring cohesion to the sprawling site and serve the different user groups. Trail plans include 21.65 miles of multiuse trials including 11.25 miles of gravel trail and 10.4 miles of paved trail; a 1.6-mile nature trail at the park's south end; a 5-mile mountain bike trail loop; and trail access to Kansas Wildlife & Parks' Prairie Center Park. Trailheads with parking are planned at 119th Street, 127th Street, and 135th Street. The largest concentration of development will lie within the largest open space at the northwest corner of the site at 127th Street, where the plan includes four practice fields, complemented by a shelter, restrooms, playground and sand volleyball court. Also nearby will be a 23-acre off-leash area, including a separately-fence three-acre small dog area., an Olympic-style archery range and a maintenance building. On the opposite side of 127th Street, a prairie restoration and walking path are planned and will be overlooked by an observation tower which consultants described as similar to the one in Shawnee Mission Park. Other plan components include a shelter at the 119th Street trailhead, restoration of a pond near the 127th Street Trailhead, and a planetary-themed display garden and playground, park headquarters and park police substation near the 135th Street trailhead. Costs for implementing the Cedar Niles master plan have been estimated at $12.9 million. Consultants have spread this over three phases including: Phase 1 at $5,655,093 which would include the trails and trailheads in the north section, a park maintenance facility, and wetland and pond restoration; Phase 2 at $5,665,093 for the middle section including trails and trailhead, practice fields, and dog park; and Phase 3 at $966,439, which would include trails and trailheads, the park headquarters, and pond restoration. back to top Thousands of items bargain priced at Library Fall used book sale Thousands of gently used books and audiovisual materials will be offered for sale at bargain prices at the Fall Used Book Sale, cosponsored by the Johnson County Library and Friends of the Johnson County Library, in the meeting room of the Antioch Library, 8700 Shawnee Mission Pkwy, Merriam, KS, November 6-8, 2008. Sale hours are: Thursday November 6 • 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Friday, November 7 • 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Saturday, November 8 • 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. This popular Fall Book Sale will feature a variety of nonfiction categories and some fiction and mysteries for both adults and youth. Most items are priced at $1.00 and 50¢. Some materials may be specially priced. All sales are final; checks, MasterCard, Discover and Visa accepted with proper identification. Proceeds from the book sales are used to purchase new library materials, fund library programs for all ages, and train library staff and volunteers. Donations of books and other materials in good condition for the book sales and Friends book stores are accepted at all Johnson County Library locations. (No magazines, please.) For more information, call (913) 261-2319 or visit www.jocolibrary.org/friends. back to top JCPRD Winter Activities Catalog available after Oct. 27 The Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Winter ACTIVITIES catalog will be available the week of Oct. 27. The 68-page quarterly publication lists more than 400 programs offered by the District from December though February and beyond. Winter 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 Winter catalog will begin immediately after the catalogs arrive. Winter program offerings begin on or about Dec. 1. ACTIVITIES is mailed out to approximately 31,000 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 on the District's website at www.jcprd.com. Look for Winter listings to be online the week of Oct. 27 as well. back to top Final two Fall Adventure Walks for 50 Plus are Nov. 12 & 20 The Mine Creek Battlefield State Historic Site near Pleasanton, Kan., and Kill Creek Park in rural Olathe will be the last two of five destinations being visited this autumn as part of Fall Adventure Walks being offered by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. The Mine Creek walk will take place on Nov. 12, while the Kill Creek Park Walk will take place on Nov. 20. Located about two miles south of Pleasanton, Mine Creek was the site of the second largest cavalry battle of the Civil War and the largest battle in Kansas. Trails at the site include prairie and woodland habitats. Kill Creek Park first opened in late 2001 and encompasses about 880 acres. Park trails meander through grasslands and along wooded areas beside Kill Creek. Both walks are rated at an easy level of exertion and will all involve three plus miles of walking on varied terrain. 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. Adventure Walks are led by Instructor Tiffany Glaser. Both 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 $16 per person for Johnson County residents or $17 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, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top 50 Plus Squaw Creek Birdwatching Trip offered on Nov. 14 The Johnson County Park and Recreation District's yearly 50 Plus birdwatching trip to the Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge is a day filled with wildlife viewing and an annual favorite. This year's day-long trip will take place on Friday, Nov. 14. It should be a great year for snow geese. When conditions are right, participants can expect to see thousands of geese and ducks at this resting and feeding sanctuary for waterfowl on their migratory journey south. But even in dryer years, the reserve is a great place to visit and observe other wildlife like deer, turkey, pheasants, and bald eagles. Lunch will take place at Camp Rulo, Neb., famous for fried catfish and other entrees. Participants must provide their own meal expenses and should bring binoculars and a bird book. The trip will depart from the north side of Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch Road, Merriam, at 8 a.m. and return around 4 p.m. The cost for this eight-hour trip is $29 per person and includes van transportation. Preregistration is required. For more information call (913) 236-1246. To register, call (913) 831-3359. 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 Johnson County Park and Recreation District plans Firewood Sale on Nov. 15 at the Theatre in the Park Throughout the year, Johnson County Park and Recreation District park maintenance staff trim branches and remove dead trees from District parks. A single chance to purchase some of the resulting firewood will be offered when a Firewood Sale takes place from noon to 5 p.m,. on Saturday Nov. 15 in The Theatre in the Park Parking Lot. Firewood will be sold one a first come - first served basis and no delivery will be available. The cost will be $50 per half cord for mixed hardwood. For more information, contact Senior Park Worker Grant Evans at (913) 631-0734. back to top