SEPTEMBER
- 2008
50 Plus Plans Active Aging Day Activities on Sept. 24 at Santa Fe Commons
"Choose an active life" is the theme for this year's Active Aging Week. In observance of the week, the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District invites you to a day of fun and friendship.
The department's Active Aging Day will start at 9:30 a.m. with a walk through Santa Fe Commons, 8045 Santa Fe Dr., to enjoy the fall foliage and historical landmarks. In celebration of the season, participants will paint pumpkins and the top three works of art will be displayed in the Olathe, Overland Park, and Roeland Park 50 Plus centers. To finish the day, participants will play Apple Cider Bingo at the Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty, Overland Park.
There is a small fee for bingo, but the other activities are free. Reservations are required and can be obtained by calling (913) 642-6410.
The International Council on Active Aging initiated Active Aging Week in 2003 as a national observance meant to raise awareness of the benefits of physical activity and proper nutrition for older adults.
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50 Plus plans apple orchard outing on Sept. 25
Obtaining fresh air and apples is the goal of an outing being offered by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District in late September.
The program is called An Apple a Day and will take place on Sept. 25. Participants will visit the Pome on the Range Orchards and Winery in Williamsburg, Kan., to pick apples. The orchard also sells about 20 varieties of their own wine, including peach and sand plum. Lunch will take place at Guys and Mae's in Williamsburg (on your own). This will be the fifth year for the popular apple-themed fall outing. Search for the keywords "adventure walks" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings.
This program will leave from Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam, at 9 a.m. The cost for one five-hour outing, including transportation, is $16 per person for Johnson County residents or $18 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, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com.
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50 Plus Day Trip to Shatto Dairy and Excelsior Springs planned Sept. 23
A new day trip being offered in late September by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District will head north of the Kansas City metropolitan area to learn about agriculture, famous outlaws, and the City of Excelsior Springs.
The Shatto Dairy and Excelsior Springs trip will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 23. Participants will journey to Osborn, Missouri, east of St. Joseph, Mo., where they'll tour the unique Shatto Dairy Farm where "the cows are cozy and the milk is simply 'moovelous.'" In addition to being a working dairy farm, this site has some interesting history, as it's also where Frank and Jesse James grew up and includes the world's largest collection of James family artifacts. After this, participants will visit Excelsior Spring, Mo., founded in 1881 on the discovery of unique cold-water mineral springs. A tour guide and historian will interpret the town's major historical sites, including an 1823 cabin, the Elms Resort and Spa, the Hall of Waters with its unique Art Deco and Mayan architecture, and the Excelsior Springs Archives and Museum.
This trip will leave at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 23, from Antioch Park 6501 Antioch, Merriam, and return at approximately 6:30 p.m. that day. The cost is $75 per person and includes lunch at the Wabash BBQ in Excelsior Springs..
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.
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Fall Group programs offered by JCPRD Interpretive Staff
Scouting or other organized groups looking for educational and fun outdoor activities this Fall can take advantage of group programs offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. Arranged by appointment, the JCPRD Interpretive Staff is offering the following programs: Map and Compass Clinic, Fall Nature Walks, and the Outdoor Skills Survival Hike.
All programs take place at Ernie Miller Park, 909 North Kansas 7 Highway, Olathe.
Map and Compass Clinic - Children ages ten to 14 will learn the basics of a compass and reading a map. These skills will be combined through games. The cost for one 60-minute session for up to 10 people at Ernie Miller Park is $34 for Johnson County residents or $37 for nonresidents.
Autumn Nature Walks - This program is for ages six through 14 and will allow participants to experience Autumn's beauty during a guided walk through Ernie Miller Park. Walks can be tailored for special interests and/or specific scout requirements. Walks last about 45 minutes. The cost for one to 10 people is $25 for Johnson County residents or $27 for nonresidents, and the cost for 11 to 15 people is $30 for Johnson County residents or $33 for nonresidents. Fall nature walks are popular, so call today.
Outdoor Skills Survival Hike - Designed for all ages, participants will problem solve as they hike through the wilderness of Ernie Miller Park. Emphasis will be on map reading, teamwork, decision making, and staying safe outdoors. This activity can be tailored to groups, age, and experience level. The cost for one 60-minute session for up to 15 people is $34 for Johnson County residents or $37 for nonresidents.
For more information or to schedule a program, call the Ernie Miller Nature Center at (913) 764-7759.
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Kansas Pioneer Girl Day is Sept. 27 at Ernie Miller Park
Celebrating the life of Laura Ingalls Wilder, whose "Little House on the Prairie" books were inspired by her childhood experiences in Kansas, is the aim of a special event at Ernie Miller Park that will allow participants to step back in time to pioneer days.
Kansas Pioneer Girl Day is the name of the event, which will take place from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Sept., 27, at Ernie Miller Park, at 909 N. Kansas 7 Highway, Olathe. Participants are encouraged to dress like Laura and wear pioneer clothing. There will be a variety of stations featuring old-fashioned games and other activities that are sure to delight and intrigue. These will include making rag dolls, finger knitting, and using feather quills. Music from the time period and stories of Laura's adventures will also be featured. Search for the keyword "history" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings.
Admission for this two-hour event is $4 per person, paid on-site, but reservations are required. Last year's event filled quickly. For reservations or more information, call (913) 764-7759.
The Johnson County Park and Recreation District's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District’s website at www.jcprd.com.
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New Adult/Child Free Fishing Clinic is Sept. 27 at Shawnee Mission Park Shelter #12
Have you ever wanted to fish with your child or grandchild and didn't know how? A new special event being offered by the Park Safety and Interpretive Division of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District can help.
This Adult/Child Fishing Clinic will take place from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Sept. 27 at Shelter #12 near the swimming beach at Shawnee Mission Park, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee and Lenexa. This event is for ages eight to 14 with a parent or guardian. During this new intergenerational program, the first hour will involve a clinic for adults covering basic fishing techniques, fish identification, equipment, and knot tying. The remainder of the event will give children a chance to fish with their parent or guardian. Search for the keyword "fishing" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings.
Fishing equipment and bait will be provided. This program is free to participants and is funded through a grant from the National Recreation and Park Association. Participation is limited to 30 people and preregistration is required.
The Johnson County Park and Recreation District's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District’s website at www.jcprd.com.
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Rolland Love shares recipes, memories At Johnson County Library program
The Johnson County Library will host a program entitled Ozark Mountain Memories on Thursday, September 11 from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Shawnee Heartland Assisted Living, 26107 Midland Drive in Shawnee, KS. Rolland Love, author and storyteller, will speak about the importance of writing one’s own story. He will share stories and recipes from the award-wining cookbook he coauthored: Homegrown in the Ozark Mountains: Meals and Memories. The program is free and open to the public; no registration required. Books will be available for purchase and signing.
Rolland Love is the author of award winning short stories, novels and a best selling computer book. His book, Homegrown in the Ozarks: Mountain Meals and Memories, a cookbook of Ozark recipes and essays was a finalist for best book in Missouri in 2007. He has appeared on television talk shows, been interviewed by the Kansas City Star and other publications have written stories about his Mark Twain writing style.
Among his acting forays, Rolland has played the role of a medical healer at the Renaissance Festival in Bonner Springs, Kansas and the roles of a monk, a Villain and John Calvin McCoy, founder of Westport, Missouri.
He was a member of the Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery during the Bicentennial in 2004 and played the role of Pvt. Silas Goodrich, expert fisherman on the expedition in 1804. He developed a monolog from his journal entries, which he presents to schools, libraries, Campfire Girls, Boy Scouts, civic groups, and retirement centers.
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.
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Constitution Day Poster Contest September 2, 2008 - Prizes available
Fun and learning – that winsome duo – have a track record in the Second Annual GovDoc Kids Group Constitution Day Poster Contest for students, an international contest promoted exclusively through the Internet. Co-sponsors are the national GovDoc Kids Group and the Kansas Library Association’s Government Documents Roundtable.
To compete, the contest invites K-12 entrants (including homeschoolers) to celebrate Constitution Day (Sept. 17) by designing a poster showing how the entrant benefits from the freedoms embodied in the U.S. Constitution.
Entries must be postmarked by October 1, 2008. Details, resources, and entry form are available at the GovDoc Kids Group wiki, http://www.govdocs4children.pbwiki.com.
Each winning student will receive two copies of his or her poster, and the three local winners in the Kansas City area will receive in addition a scholarship certificate for art classes at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art valued at $125 each.
Contest winners will be posted on the Gov Doc Kids Group wiki on Election Day, November 4, 2008. Local winners will receive their awards in a ceremony on December 6 at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.
The first 100 entrants will receive one copy each of the U.S. Constitution from Oak Hill Publishing Company, Naperville (IL) (home of ConstitutionFacts.com www.constitutionfacts.com), which is one of the national corporate sponsors. The other national corporate sponsor is Gumdrop Books, Bethany (MO).
The 2007 Constitution Day Poster Contest had national and international participation, with winning posters highlighting the Bill of Rights, voting rights, and the need to preserve liberties. The 2007 Contest culminated with a presentation to three Kansas City-area winners at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, with Congressman Emmanuel Cleaver (D-Missouri) speaking.
The GovDoc Kids Group conceived the contest as a promotional tool for the value of government documents to K-12 students and teachers in addressing the new requirement since 2005 to integrate an educational program about Constitution Day into public school curricula.
The GovDoc Kids Group is comprised of librarians from the Johnson County Library, Overland Park (KS), Visiting Librarian Service, New Philadelphia (OH), and Muskingum College, New Concord (OH), and staff from the National Archives—Central Plains – Kansas City (MO). Johnson County Library (KS) Government Documents Librarian Martha Childers and Visiting Librarian Service’s Tom Adamich coordinate the group, which is co-sponsored by Kansas Library Association Government Documents Roundtable (GODORT).
The project’s objectives are: To promote government information in order to engage K-12 students in learning about history, culture, science, and government through games and other interactive activities; to assist teachers and school librarians with locating teaching aids, lesson plans, and exciting tools to enhance students' learning; and to provide librarians with a collection of free government resources to advance their reference interview and collection development decisions.
For more detail, contact Government Documents Librarian Martha Childers, Johnson County Library, at (913) 495-2464.
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3D Game Design class for youth starts Sept. 30
An interactive look at 3D video game design is in store for participants in a youth program being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District in late September.
The program is called 3D Game Design - New Software and is for ages 10 through 17. A previously-offered class called Advanced Video Game Design is a prerequisite for this program. Students will have an opportunity to create and immerse themselves in a 3D world. Participants will learn to design professional 3D games that look and feel like commercially-available games. Search for the keyword "computers" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings.
This program is offered at 4 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday beginning Sept. 30 at the Shawnee Civic Center, 13817 Johnson Drive, Shawnee. The cost for six two-hour sessions is $180 per person for Johnson County residents or $198 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.
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Happy Feet Soccer offered in early October for young children
"Story time with a soccer ball" is an alternative name for a soccer program for young children being offered in early October by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District.
The program is called Happy Feet Soccer and is for boys and girls age two and one-half to five. This program promises fun and exciting soccer skill and fitness development, as well as a head start to a healthy future. Happy Feet is a proven 23-year-old program and features professional trained and kid safe certified coaches. Search for the keyword "soccer" to find these programs in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings.
A session for ages two and one-half will take place at 10 a.m., while a session for ages four and five will take place at 10:35 a.m.. Both sessions will begin on Wednesday, Oct. 1, at the Athletic Training Center, 9301 W. 73rd Street, Merriam. The cost for four 30-minute sessions is $50 for Johnson County residents or $55 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.
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Fall Adventure Walks for 50 Plus continue on Oct. 1 at Melvern Lake
Melvern Lake west of Ottawa will be the next destination to be 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 walk at Melvern Lake will take place on Oct. 1. Situated on the eastern edge of Kansas’ Flint Hills Region, Melvern Lake draws outdoor enthusiasts from a wide range of disciplines. This U.S. Army Corps of Engineers project includes about 7,000 acres of water and 18,000 acres of land. The 50 Plus walk is expected to require an easy level of exertion. Other upcoming Fall walk dates and destinations are: Nov. 12, Mine Creek; and Nov. 20, Kill Creek Park.
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. 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 $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.
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Library to host Open house at Spring Hill Neighborhood Library
The Johnson County Library will host an open house from 10:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, September 20, at the Spring Hill Neighborhood Library, 109 S. Webster, Spring Hill, KS. There will be a variety of children’s activities including bubbles and “masterpiece painting”. Refreshments will be provided and there will be door prize drawings.
The Spring Hill Library was recently remodeled and the public is invited to come and see the improvements and learn about library services and resources as they are participating in the Spring Hill Fall Festival. No registration is required.
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. For more information about Johnson County Library programs visit the library’s Web site: www.jocolibrary.org.
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Storybook Theater Program offered for youth beginning Oct. 4
Storybook Theater is the name of a beginning drama program for youth being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District.
Designed for young thespians ages three and one-half through six, this program will help develop participants' imaginations as they have fun. Each week, a different storybook tale will be acted out. Search for the keyword "theater" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings.
Storybook Tales will take place at 10 a.m. Saturday beginning Oct. 4 at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. Class cost for four 60-minute sessions is $40 per person for Johnson County residents or $44 per person for nonresidents. Preregistration is required.
The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com.
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Thirteenth Annual Kids Klassic is Oct. 4 at Heritage Park
There is something offered for everyone when the Johnson County Park and Recreation District presents the thirteenth annual Kids Klassic noncompetitive fun run/walk.
This year's event will take place beginning at 9 a.m. on Oct. 4 at Heritage Park, 16050 Pflumm, Olathe. Participants have a choice of a five-kilometer (3.1 mile) or two-mile route. There's also a free half-mile fun run/walk that will begin at 10 a.m. While a clock located at the finish line will display the time, this event will not be scored. Everyone who runs or walks is considered a winner!
The event is open to kids of all ages, and grown-ups too! Adults are welcome to enter and are encouraged (but not required) to enter with a child. All participants receive a Kids Klassic T-shirt, post-race refreshments, and will be eligible for prize drawings. All children who finish the race will receive a medal.
The Kids Klassic is a benefit event for the Jordan Lee Brooks Scholarship Fund. Brooks was a student at Briarwood Elementary School who suffered from asthma and finally succumbed to the disease in the summer of 1998 at the age of nine. From each participant's entry fee, a portion will be used to provide financial assistance to qualifying families to participate in Johnson County Park and Recreation District Children's Services programs.
The cost is $12 for children and $14 for adults until Oct. 2 and $16 for children and $18 for adults after that date. Early registration is advised. Mail-in registrations must be postmarked by Monday, Sept. 29, while walk-in registrations must be received by 4 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 2. For more information, call (913) 831-3359. Participants can also sign up from 2 to 6 p.m. on Friday Oct. 3 and from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. on race day at Heritage Park.
The free half-mile fun run/walk is open to all, especially kids six and under. Finisher ribbons will be awarded to all kids!
Volunteers are also needed for this event. For more information or to sign up, contact Chad Tower at (913) 236-1231.
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Self Defense Program for Ages 12 and Older to Be Presented on Oct. 9 in Olathe by The Ali Kemp Educational (T.A.K.E.) Foundation
A self-defense program meant to help women and girls fight the kind of violence which killed a 19-year-old Leawood resident during the summer of 2002 is being offered at an Olathe location in early October.
The program is called The Ali Kemp Educational (T.A.K.E.) Foundation Seminar and takes its name from a woman who was strangled in June 2002 while working alone as a lifeguard at a subdivision pool.
The program, which has been presented to well over 8,000 women and girls since mid-2004, gives women ages 12 and up the self-protection skills they need to avoid becoming the victims of violent crime. Participants are encouraged to bring a friend as portions of the curriculum use a partner and mothers and daughters make great teams. Participants will learn basic techniques which could save their lives and thwart an attack.
This program is being presented by T.A.K.E. (The Ali Kemp Educational) Foundation in cooperation with the Johnson County Park and Recreation District, City of Leawood Parks and Recreation, and the Blue Valley Recreation Commission. The program was designed by JCPRD Corporate and Community Wellness Manager Jill Leiker, a professional self-defense trainer, with consultation with local law enforcement agencies. The idea for the program was originally brought by representatives of the Kemp family to the local recreation agencies.
The two-hour program is being offered at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 9, at the Pioneer Trail Jr. High School, 15100 W. 127th St., Olathe. The program is free, but advance registration is required and enrollment is limited to 100 people. To register for this program call Olathe Park and Recreation at (913) 971-6263. Search for the keyword "self defense" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. On-line registration is not available for this program.
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.
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Fall Hayride times available through Nov. 23
Times are still available for fall hayrides at Shawnee Mission Park, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee, or Heritage Park, 16000 Pflumm Road, Olathe. Organized hayrides for groups are available through Nov. 23 and conclude with a warm campfire where apple cider and marshmallows await!
Johnson County Park and Recreation District hayrides are tractor-drawn, last approximately 60 minutes, and are followed by a 60-minute campfire. Search for the keywords "hayrides" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings.
The cost is $5.50 per person and a minimum of $65 required. A $30 deposit is due at the time the reservation is made and is applied toward the full amount due. Hayrides fill quickly, so please call early to assure your choice of dates. Reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance of the date of the hayride. For scheduling and information, call (913) 831-3359.
For individuals or families wishing to participate in a fall hayride without having to worry about reaching minimum numbers or placing a deposit, a Public Hayride is being offered at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 2 at Shawnee Mission Park. As with the group outings, the cost is $5.50 per person for a one-hour ride followed by a one-hour campfire. Preregistration is required for this event and can be accomplished by visiting the District's website at www.jcprd.com or by calling (913) 831-3359.
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Dennis Moore Expected to Attend Lights On Afterschool on Oct. 10
U.S. Representative Dennis Moore (D-Kan.) is expected to be in attendance this year when the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Afterschool Programs conduct their annual Lights On Afterschool event at The Theatre in the Park in Shawnee Mission Park, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee and Lenexa.
On Oct. 10, an estimated 1,100 to 1,300 Afterschool participants from the Gardner and Shawnee Mission School Districts will participate in the full-day event. As in years past, there will be a variety of activities at the Theater, including hayrides. Between noon and 1 p.m., Moore is expected to talk briefly with participants as they gather in the shape of a giant light bulb in order to pose for a photo.
Childrens Services Specialist Rob Knaussman said the appearances of Moore came about in conjunction with the Kansas Enrichment Network and is meant to draw attention to this national day of celebration for afterschool programs. This will be the fourth year the District has celebrated Lights on Afterschool at The Theatre in the Park. Also expected to be in attendance is Kansas Recreation and Park Association Executive Director Doug Vance.
A separate and smaller Lights On Afterschool event without the guests is being planned the following week on Oct. 17 for the approximately 400 Afterschool participants in the District's De Soto Afterschool programs.
JCPRD’s programs offer children the opportunity to relax and unwind after school. Children are able to serve themselves snack, start homework, listen to CD’s, play on the computer, participate in group games both indoors and outdoors. Other activities include playing board games, acting with puppets, building with blocks, or creating with art supplies.
Lights on After School is the only nationwide event celebrating after school programs and their important role in the lives of children, families, and communities. After school programs keep kids safe, help working families and improve academic achievement. The event calls attention to after school programs and the resources required to keep the lights on and the doors open.
Note: Lights on Afterschoool is not a public event and is open only to participants in the District's 25 Afterschool programs.
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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.
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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.
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Lifeguard Training offered at RPAC beginning Oct. 19
Lifeguard training classes are being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District beginning in late October at the Roeland park Aquatics Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. .
Lifeguard training is for age 15 or older by the last class session. Participants will learn skills required for performing water rescues in life-threatening situations. This American Red Cross certification course is required for most lifeguard jobs. Participants must be capable of demonstrating good skill performances of ALL swimmer level requirements before enrolling. CPR and First Aid training is included in the class. Attendance at all sessions is mandatory. Search for the keywords "water safety" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings.
This program involves six six-hour sessions is offered at 2 p.m. Sunday beginning Oct. 19. The cost for this class is $150 for Johnson County residents or $165 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, call (913) 236-1264. To register, call (913) 831-3359. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com.
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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.
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Shawnee Mission & Heritage Park Trout Stocking set for Oct. 25
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.
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Adult Country Western and Spicy Latin Dance For Adults Begin Oct. 23
Two different dance classes for adults are being offered beginning in late October by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District.
The classes are Country Western Line Dance and Spicy Latin Dancing. Both classes begin Oct. 23, are for adults 16 and older, and will take place at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. Search for the keyword "dance" to find these programs in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings.
Country Western Line Dance will meet at 7 p.m. Thursday and will teach dances including: Cowboy in Motion, County Line, Tush Push, Five-Step, Southside Shuffle, Ten-Step, and Waltz Across Texas. For Country Western Line Dance, the cost for six 50-minute sessions is $40 per person for Johnson County residents or $44 per person for nonresidents.
Spicy Latin Dancing will meet at 8 p.m. Thursday. Participants will learn the Cha-Cha, Salsa, Mambo, Merengue and more. Participants must register for this class as couples. Class cost for six 60-minute sessions is $60 per couple for Johnson County residents or $66 per couple 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.
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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.
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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.
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50 Plus Plans Adventure Walk at Kansas City Zoo on Oct. 9
The Kansas City Zoo will be the site of an upcoming adventure walk being offered by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District in early October.
The program is called The Kansas City Outback and will take place on Oct. 9. 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 to the walk site and zoo admission, is $21 per person for Johnson County residents or $22 for nonresidents. Participants should bring a sack lunch or purchase lunch at the zoo. 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.
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New Mad Science® Creepy Crawly Ecology workshop offered on Oct. 10
Animals, insects and the great outdoors will be covered during a new Mad Science® workshop for youth being offered in early October by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District.
The program is called Mad Science® Creepy Crawly Ecology and is for ages six to 12. Participants will use microscopes to investigate tiny parts of plants, animals and insects; create tie-dye designs using nature's colors; and play the role and develop the skills of a naturalist tracking animals in the wild. Young ecologists will discover the science of ornithology by investigating different species of birds and how they fit into their very own niches in the environment; building their own birdhouse; and creating their own blend of bird food. Participants will also learn the parts of an insect by creating their own bug model. There will be great "snacktivities" and fun "take homes." Participants should bring a sack lunch and a drink. Search for the keyword "science" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings.
This program will take place beginning at 9 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 10 at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. Children may be dropped off between 8:30 and 9 and picked up between 3:30 and 4 p.m. The cost for one six and one-half-hour session is $40 per person for Johnson County residents or $45 per person for nonresidents. The registration deadline for this program is Oct. 8 and the program is expected to fill quickly.
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.
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New Bowling Bonanza planned on Oct. 10 for ages 5 and older
Finding time in your busy scheduled to spend time with your family can be easy with a new special event being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District.
This two-hour event is called the Bowling Bonanza and is for ages five and older. Participants can enjoy an afternoon bowling on a day when Olathe and Shawnee Mission schools have the day off. This event will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 10, at Park Lanes, 7701 Renner Road, Shawnee. The cost is $7 per person, which includes two games, shoe rental, and a refreshment. Preregistration is required. Search for the keywords "special event" 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 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.
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The Emperor's New Clothes puppet show performance planned for Oct. 10 at Roeland Park Community Center
Vanity and greed never pay off as demonstrated by the Stone Lion Puppet Theatre's production of The Emperor's New Clothes scheduled for Oct. 10.
This performance is for ages three through 12 and will take place beginning at 11 a.m. at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. Based loosely on Hans Christian Anderson's classic tale, this version is a zany musical full of singing penguins, a wise walrus, and lots of charm. This special event is cosponsored by the Roeland Park Community Center and the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. Search for the keyword "puppetry" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings.
The show will last about 50 minutes. All tickets include a treat. The cost for advance tickets is $6 per person, while at the door on the day of the performance, tickets will cost $7 per person. Past Stone Lion performances have proven popular, so get your tickets early! For advance tickets, go to www.jcprd.com or contact the JCPRD Registration Department at (913) 831-3359.
The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches.
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New Geocaching Mystery Hunt set for Oct. 15 at Matt Ross Community Center
Come try out a new kind of treasure hunt using Global Positioning System (GPS) technology during a new program being offered by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District.
This program is called Geocaching Mystery Hunt and is for ages 50 plus. Geocaching is an outdoor treasure-hunting game in which participants use a GPS receiver to hide and seek containers called "geocaches." For this particular program, each person will have a different spot to find a piece of the puzzle. After all the pieces have been found, participants will put them together and see what they have. This program utilizes GPS units donated to JCPRD by Olathe-based Garmin International in 2007. Search for the keyword "adventure" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings.
Geocaching Mystery Hunt will take place beginning at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 15 at the Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty, Overland Park. The cost for one two-and-one-half -hour adventure is $9 per person for Johnson County residents or $10 per person 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.
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New Big Bad Pumpkin Race and Waterfront Bash at Shawnee Mission Park on Oct. 18 promises a family-friendly fall outing
A new family-friendly fall event called the Big Bad Pumpkin Race and Waterfront Bash and will take place beginning at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 18 in the parking lot near the marina at Shawnee Mission Park, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee and Lenexa.
Johnson County Park and Recreation District Childrens Services Manager Kim Chappelow Lee said the event was inspired by a similar race in Manhattan Beach, Calif., which won the National Park and Recreation Association’s 2007 Innovative Programming Award.
"I thought what a novel event - it’s so family friendly and it affords so many opportunities for creativity," Chappelow Lee said. "We’ve also been looking at doing a fall event that got away from the Halloween theme and also from the kind of traditional fall festival that you see everywhere. This really filled that."
In addition to the pumpkin contest, performances by family-friendly bands Bongo Barry and Jim Cosgrove "Mr. Stinky Feet" are planned, as is a show by Magician Devin Henderson.
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. 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.
The event is free to spectators, but there is a fee of $20 for each entry in the pumpkin race. Advance registration is required for all racers. For more information, visit www.jcprd.com or call (913) 236-1218.
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. Winners will receive a trophy. The slope of a 12-inch ramp will get the pumpkins rolling and slope of the parking lot should do the rest.
"The parking lot has the appropriate grade to it that once they get going, they’re going to go," Chappelow Lee said. "Maybe not fast, but they’re going to go."
Under the rules, each entry must be constructed from a single carved pumpkin and use two independent axles with wheels attached and which run through the pumpkin. No chassis of any kind, such as skateboards or toy trucks, can be used and no motorized enhancements are allowed.
"I think it’s going to be an awesome thing for parent and child to construct that thing together at home, be very proud to bring it out and compete against other people," Chappelow Lee said. "We just hope nobody takes it way too seriously."
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 below.
In addition to the race, entries can compete for honors in a number of wacky categories. These 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."
Chappelow Lee said she will feel this event is successful if it draws 50 race entries.
"We’re expecting this event to be very small this year, because we started doing it late, but we expect it to be an annual event and we expect it to grow and just get as popular as can be," she said. "At the very least, it will be an awesome Saturday afternoon for people to show up and enjoy the park, enjoy the performances, buy a hot dog. That kind of thing."
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