Johnson County, Kansas, Homepage - Feature Stories for 2008

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	AUGUST - 2008 Aug. 27 is entry deadline for new Women's Triathlon Aug. 27 is the entry deadline for the first-ever Olathe Medical Center's Women's Triathlon and Expo, which will take place on Saturday, Sept. 13, at Kill Creek Park, 11670 Homestead Lane, Olathe. Johnson County Park and Recreation District officials first announced this unique event in late 2007 and anticipate the new triathlon will fill to capacity with 350 participants. The triathlon will begin at 7:30 a.m. and involves a 500-meter swim starting and ending at the park's beach, a 2.6-mile run on existing trails within the park, and a 10.6-mile bike consisting of a square loop on county roads to the east of Kill Creek Park. This USA Triathlon-sanctioned event will be open to individuals, as well as to teams in family, friends, corporate, and club categories. Until Aug. 27, the cost is $50 for individuals and $75 for teams. After Aug. 27 and until Aug. 29, the cost is $60 for individuals and $85 for teams. After Aug. 29, the cost is $70 for individuals and $95 for teams. For brochures and registration forms, go to www.jcprd.com/activities/special_events.cfm or call (913) 831-3359. Registrations are being taken on-line at www.sportkc.org. In addition, participants, including team members, must also be members of USA Triathlon. One-day memberships are $10 and annual memberships are $39. Forms are available at www.usatriathlon.org. Volunteers are also needed for this event. If you would like to volunteer, call (913) 236-1231. In addition to the triathlon, The Olathe Medical Center Women's Expo will take place in Kill Creek Park on Sept. 13 in conjunction with this event. The Expo will take place from 10 a.m. to noon and will feature booths of all kinds featuring vendors focused on women's health and interests. The expo is free and open to the public. Business which would like more information about reserving a booth should call (913) 236-1253. back to top Aug. 28 is registration Deadline for Fifth-Annual 50 Plus Games of Greater Kansas City August 28 is the registration deadline for athletes interested in participating in the Fifth Annual 50 Plus Games of Greater Kansas City. Both seasoned athletes who have been competing for years and rookies ready to get off the couch are welcome, as are volunteers looking for a great place to invest some of their time. This year's games will take place from Thursday, Sept. 11 through Sunday, Sept. 14 at locations throughout the Kansas City area. The games are presented under the umbrella of the National Senior Games Association, a community-based member of the United States Olympic Committee. The local games are presented by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's 50 Plus Department. Local events provide amateur athletes 50 years of age and older an opportunity to compete against each other in sports and games for individuals, doubles, and teams. These Olympic-style competitions are meant to promote health and wellness, as well as provide social opportunities. New events for 2008 are: pickleball, table tennis, and frisbee throw for accuracy. These additions join returning events including: chess, bridge, three-point shoot-out and free throw basketball, single and team bowling, billiards; golf, horseshoes, miniature golf, tennis singles and doubles, race walking, softball throw for distance and football throw for accuracy, swimming, tennis, and the 5 kilometer run. The public is invited to join athletes for Opening Ceremonies on beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 11 night at Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam. In addition to watching the lighting of the torch, ceremony participants can enjoy some live music. Competitions will take place Thursday, Sept. 11, through Sunday, Sept. 14, at locations across the metro area. A registration fee of $20 per person includes registration for three events, a 50 Plus Games T-shirt, and dinner at the opening ceremony. Some additional fees will apply to events including golf, miniature golf, tennis, and bowling. Additional dinners for non-athletes are available for $7 per person and must be reserved in advance. For more information about the 50 Plus Games of Greater Kansas City, including a schedule, entry form, complete event rules and a list of locations, visit the District's web site at www.jcprd.com/parks_facilities/50plusgames.cfm. A $5 late registration fee will apply to registrations received after Aug. 28, if space is available. An event of this magnitude requires a lot of help, and volunteers are also needed. To learn more or to volunteer at one or more 50 Plus Games of Greater Kansas City events, call Julie Sano at (913) 236-1269. back to top Patriot Golf Day is Aug. 30 at Heritage Park and Tomahawk Hills Golfers who come to Johnson County Park and Recreation District golf courses on Saturday, Aug. 30th, will be asked to consider giving a minimum donation of $1 per greens fee to help ensure the future of families of wounded or fallen soldiers. This will be the second year the courses join in the nationwide observations of Patriot Golf Day. All proceeds will go to The Folds of Honor Foundation, which awards scholarships to the children of military members who have been seriously disabled or have given their lives in combat in Afghanistan or Iraq. This event began in 2007 and was hugely successful, raising more than $1.1 million from 3,200 golf facilities nationwide, including over $500 collected from the two District golf courses. The District courses are the Tomahawk Hills Golf Course, 17501 Midland Drive, Shawnee, and at the Heritage Park Golf Course, 16445 Lackman, Olathe. 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 Roeland Park Aquatic Center dome to be reinstalled Sept. 5-12 The Roeland Park Aquatic Center will be closed to the public for about a week for the annual reinstallation of the air-supported dome which makes the facility's main pool usable during the winter months. The Aquatics Center, located at 4843 Rosewood, Roeland Park, will be closed Tuesday Sept. 5 through Tuesday, Sept. 12. These plans are dependant on good weather and could be delayed by inclement conditions such as rain or wind.* It takes 30 to 40 Johnson County Park and Recreation District employees to help handle the 6,800 pounds of vinyl-coated polyester-based fabric which makes up the dome. When inflated, the three-section structure measures 210 feet by 106 feet and has a capacity of approximately 22,260 square feet. The dome remains in place over the main pool from September through mid-May, when it is taken down each year prior to Memorial Day to provide an open-air facility for the summer months. The fall reinstallation of the dome also signals the seasonal closure of some of the RPAC's outdoor facilities, including the youth pool, water slide, group slide, and vortex pool. Following reinstallation of the dome, other steps to be completed prior to opening include installation of the 1- and 3-meter diving boards, a drop slide, and interior lights at the dome. For information on current happenings at the facility, call the pool hotline at (816) 464-1003 or call the RPAC at (913) 432-1377. The RPAC is owned by the City of Roeland Park and is operated by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. For specific information on dome installation plans, please call Aquatics Coordinator Bruce Perry at (913) 432-1377.* back to top Olathe 50 Plus plans Pancake Breakfast to celebrate Old Settler's Day on Sept. 6 The 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District is planning a pancake breakfast this year to help celebrate the 110th anniversary of Olathe's Old Settler's Day. The two-hour breakfast event is for all ages and will take place will take place at the Olathe Millcreek Center, 311 E. Park, Olathe. Treat yourself to a plate of piping hot pancakes from Chris Cakes before the parade begins. There will also be face painting , games, and some facts about pancakes. Search for the keywords "special event" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. The event will take place from 8 to 10 a.m. on Sept. 6 and the cost is $6 per person, payable at the door. 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 Introduction to Sports - Outdoor Soccer Begins Sept. 6 Helping parents teach young children the developmental skills needed for soccer is the aim of an instructional program starting Sept. 6. The program is called Introduction to Sports - Outdoor Soccer and is being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District for four-year-olds with a parent or guardian. Skills stressed in this program include: kicking, dribbling, passing, and stopping the soccer ball. During the informative and fun sessions, instructors will work with both parents and children. Search for the keyword "soccer" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This program is offered at six different Saturday times all beginning on Sept. 6: 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. Sessions run for six consecutive Saturdays. All programs take place at Field G, Thomas S. Stoll Memorial Park, 12500 W. 119th, Overland Park. The cost for six 50-minute sessions is $58 per child for Johnson County residents or $63 per child for nonresidents. A parent or guardian is required to participate with each child. Each child will receive a sports packet including their own soccer ball and T-shirt. 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 New Gracie Combative Course in Jiu Jitsu offered beginning Sept. 8 A new class in Jiu Jitsu is being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District beginning in early September. The Gracie Combative Course in Jiu Jitsu is for ages 13 and older. In the late 1920s, Grand Master Helio Gracie created Gracie or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu after he realized that he was physically too frail to utilize the traditional Japanese techniques. Proven over the last 80 years to be the most reliable system for a smaller person to defeat a larger, more athletic opponent, the techniques of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu are based on precise timing and effective use of leverage so that virtually anyone can do it, man or woman, regardless of their size or athletic ability. While there are more than 600 techniques in all, 36 techniques have been used more often and with greater success than all the other techniques combined. Each class is different and will cover two techniques. This program is offered one-month at a time with eight classes each month consisting of eight one-hour sessions. It usually takes students two to three months to complete the course and to receive certification and move up in rank. No previous experience is required. Search for the keywords "Jiu Jitsu" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Class will take place at 7:30 p.m. Monday and Wednesday beginning Sept. 8. Classes take place at the Tae Kwon Do Academy, 7721 W. 151st St., Overland Park. Class cost for eight 60-minute lessons is $60 per person for Johnson County residents or $66 for nonresidents. Uniforms are provided. 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, go to the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Fall Season of Animal Tales Storytime Sessions Begins Sept. 5 at Ernie Miller Nature Center A new season of Animals Tales Storytime sessions is beginning at the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Ernie Miller Nature Center in Olathe. Young children and their parents are invited to come listen and learn during any or all of the six sessions scheduled between Sept. 10 and Nov. 19. Animal Tales Storytime is for ages two to six. All children must be accompanied by an adult. This program will feature stories, songs, and surprises. Participants are invited to pack a lunch and stay for a picnic. All programs take place on Wednesdays beginning at 10 a.m. and again at 11 a.m. Search for the keyword "storytelling" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. The first program of this season will be offered on Sept. 10 when the theme will be "monarchs." Other fall storytime sessions are scheduled for Sept. 24 ("Johnny Appleseed "), Oct. 8 ("squirrels"), Oct. 22 ("enchanted forest"), Nov. 5 ("owls") and Nov. 21 ("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. Ernie Miller Nature Center is located at 909 N. Kansas-7 Highway, Olathe. For more information, contact the Nature Center at (913) 764-7759. back to top Fall Adventure Walks for 50 Plus Start Sept. 10 with George Owens Park George Owens Nature Park in Independence, Mo., will be the first of five destinations 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 George Owens Park will take place on Sept. 10. Other Fall walk dates and destinations are: Sept. 17, Fort Scott (Kan.) National Park; Oct. 1, Melvern Lake; 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. Participants can choose one or all of the five fall walks, which will all involve three plus miles of walking on varied terrain. 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. back to top “Butterfly Betsy” writes field guide about butterflies in Kansas City Region Johnson County Government has its own Madame Butterfly, but she’s not the tragic heroine of the Puccini opera. Betsy Betros, the director of the Pollution Control Division in the Environmental Department, is the author of the newly-released “A Photographic Field Guide to the Butterflies in the Kansas City Region.” While she’s not a butterfly, she enjoys her nickname of “Butterfly Betsy.” A long-time lepidopterist, a person who collects or studies butterflies and moths, Betros has worked on the book for four years, including taking most of the photographs that were used in the publication. “It started as a field guide for me about butterflies are in the metro area,” she said. Unlike “Madame Butterfly,” her book is no short story. It totals 416 pages and features more than 1,100 photographs of butterflies and some moths in their natural settings in the Kansas City Region. The region, spanning eastern Kansas and western Missouri, has approximately 100 species of native butterflies. The field guide also features pictures of caterpillar and chrysalis stages of local butterflies. The book was designed for both the beginner and advanced butterfly enthusiast by offering a wealth of information with few technical terms. Other features of the field guide include: Tips for attracting butterflies to local gardens along with lists of caterpillar food and adult nectar plants that include scientific name, distribution, and blooming times; Information about many aspects of butterflies, including basic ecology, naming system, range, flight times, habitat, and much more; Detailed identification keys and a quick compare section for 100 butterfly species; and, Photography tips. Betros admits that she has long had a fascination about butterflies and moths. “I just wanted to share my joy of butterflies with others,” she said. “I’ve been in love with butterflies ever since I was a wee little thing.” That joy began with a young a girl who shared her father’s childhood hobby of studying insects. It was the beginning of a lifelong interest that led to an undergraduate degree in entomology from Colorado State University. Betros next attended the University of Kansas where she received a master’s degree in Environmental Health Science from KU’s Engineering School. Her thesis was about a different sort of bug –sludge bugs. Betros joined Johnson County Government in 1977 as an employee in the Wastewater Department’s laboratory. The Environmental Department was formed five years later to regulate solid waste activities in the county. “Lab staff wore two hats – when doing wastewater work, we were working for Wastewater. When we did solid waste, we were working for the Environmental Department,” she said. In 1987, all the county’s environmental services, involving the Lab Division of Wastewater, the Pollution Control Division, and the Sanitation Division of the Health Department, were combined under the umbrella of the Environmental Department. Betros has headed the Pollution Control Division since 1988. A resident of Mission since 1980, Betros thinks her next photographic field guide will be about moths in the Kansas City Region. She plans to co-author the project with two other moth enthusiasts. “It’s going to be quite an undertaking,” she said. “There are more than 2,600 species of moths in Missouri alone.” back to top Parent & Child Night Hike offered on Sept. 12 & 19 and Oct. 3 & 10 at Ernie Miller Park An intergenerational program being offered in late September and early October at Ernie Miller Park allows children ages two to six with a parent or guardian to explore park trails as the sun sets. The program is called Night Hike and is being offered on Sept. 12 and 19 and on Oct. 3 and 10 at Ernie Miller Park, which is located at 909 North Kansas 7 Highway, Olathe. All four programs begin at 7 p.m. Participants will listen for nocturnal songs such as the cricket's chorus and the barred owl's call and then gather around a cheery fire for stories, songs, and a tasty treat. Participants should bring a flashlight. Search for the keywords "night hike" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities catalog and online listings. The cost for one 90-minute session is $5 per person for Johnson County residents or $6 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. back to top Pirate Treasure Hunt is theme of youth art program on Sept. 13 A pirate treasure hunt is the theme of an art program for youth being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District in mid September. The program is called Pirate Treasure Hunt and is for ages seven to ten. Participants will try to follow a pirate map to hidden treasure. Along the way, young buccaneers will learn to read a compass and a map, and make pirate-related projects, including a treasure chest of their own. Professional storyteller Melva Hargett will also share some pirate yarns. All materials are included. Search for the keyword "art" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Pirate Treasure Hunt will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 13 in Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam. The cost for one 60-minute session is $15 per child for Johnson County residents or $17 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, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Fall Fun Series of natural and cultural history programs for ages four and five begins Sept. 13 at Ernie Miller Nature Center Young children can experience natural and cultural history first-hand through a series of programs being offered beginning in mid-September at the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Ernie Miller Nature Center, located at 909 N. Kansas-7 Highway, Olathe. The series is called the Fall Fun Series and will consist of three 90-minute programs taught by park naturalists. Search for the keyword "preschool " to find these programs in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. A session on Sept. 13 is called Forest Friends and will show participants that forests are more than just trees. The program will include a walk where participants might catch a glimpse of a hawk through the branches or a lizard hiding in fallen leaves. Other activities will include looking for tracks and playing a game of camouflage rabbits. A session on Oct. 11 is called Creepy Critters and will deal with spiders, snakes and owls. Participants will see these creatures up close and learn they're not as creepy as some people think. There will also time to dance to the Monster Mash and make a creepy craft. The final session on Nov. 15 is called The First Thanksgiving and will give young participants a chance to meet a Pilgrim woman named Patience, who will teach them about the mayflower, Native Americans, and the many trying times of Plymouth. Participants will help prepare a Thanksgiving treat. Participants can sign up for all three sessions as a series or sign up and pay for one of more session separately. The cost for the Fall Fun Series consisting of three 90-minute programs is $29 for Johnson County residents of $32 for nonresidents. The cost for each individual 90-minute session is $11 per person for Johnson County residents or $12 for nonresidents. Either way, advance registration is required, as space in limited. 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 on the Fall Wildflower Walk, call the Nature Center at (913) 764-7759. 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 Public Invited to Attend Women's Expo to be presented in conjunction with Olathe Medical Center Women's Triathlon The general public is invited to attend the first-ever Women's Expo which will take place on Saturday, Sept. 13, in conjunction with the first-ever Olathe Medical Center's Women's Triathlon. Both events will take place at Kill Creek Park, 11670 Homestead Lane, Olathe. The Expo is a free event which will begin at 10 a.m. and will feature booths of all kinds focused on women's health and interests. Participants can have their cholesterol and blood pressure checked for only $10. Other offerings will include chair massages, jewelry displays, a chance to learn about community volunteer opportunities, and drawing for pearly jewelry and more! Businesses which would like more information about reserving a booth for the expo should call (913) 236-1253. Both the triathlon and the expo are being presented by Olathe Medical Center and the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. The triathlon is a sanctioned event expected to fill to its 350-participant capacity. The registration deadline is Aug. 27. For brochures and registration forms, go to www.jcprd.com/activities/special_events.cfm or call (913) 831-3359. Registrations are being taken on-line at www.sportkc.org. Volunteers are also needed for this event. If you would like to volunteer, call (913) 236-1231. back to top Butterflies and Wildflowers Walk Planned For Sept. 13 at Ernie Miller Park Adults 16 and older and children ages 10 to 15 accompanied by a parent or guardian are invited to hike Ernie Miller Park in mid-September with a park naturalist to see nature's display of wildflowers and butterflies. This two-hour program is called the Butterflies and Wildflowers Walk and will take place on Saturday, Sept. 13 beginning at 1 p.m. Ernie Miller Park is located at 909 N. Kansas 7 Highway, Olathe. Participants will have a chance to catch a butterfly in a net for up-close observation. Participants may be walking on rough terrain and should bring a pair of binoculars if they have them, sturdy walking shoes, and wear long pants. Search for the keyword "butterflies" to find this program in the JCPRD’s Activities Catalog and online listings. The cost for one two-hour session is $11 for Johnson County residents or $12 for nonresidents. Handouts are included. Preregistration is required. Drawn by late-blooming flowers in a prairie remnant which was restored in the park about five years ago, hundreds of butterflies each year make stops from their southern migration at Ernie Miller Park during early September. About 80 percent of these visitors have been monarchs, but there have been other species as well, including painted ladies and sulfur butterflies. The butterflies are being drawn by the tall purple blooms of the gayfeather plant, as well as by other prairie plants including goldenrod and sunflowers. Many of these plants have come up naturally following prairie restoration projects completed in late 2002 in conjunction with Kansas City Wildlands. Those projects removed a number of large eastern red cedar trees which previously choked out the sun-loving prairie plants. 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 about the Butterflies and Wildflowers Walk, call Park Naturalist Andrea Johnson at (913) 764-8580 ext. 27. 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 Sign Up Now for Fall Group Hayrides at Shawnee Mission and Heritage Parks The heat of Summer hasn't faded away yet, but it's still a great time to plan a group Fall hayride with the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. This year, rides will be offered during September, October, and November between Sept. 20 and Nov. 23. Those who register early are more likely to get their first choice of days and times. Hayrides take place seven days a week during the above timeframe at Shawnee Mission Park, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee, and on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday only at Heritage Park, 16050 Pflumm Road, Olathe. Organized hayrides for groups conclude with a warm campfire where apple cider and marshmallows await! JCPRD hayrides are tractor-drawn, last approximately 60 minutes, and are followed by a 60-minute campfire. 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. There is a maximum of 25 people per wagon and one adult per 10 children is required. Reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance of the date of the hayride. For scheduling and information, call (913) 831-3359. back to top Adult Fall Reading Program Starts September 2 at Johnson County Library The Johnson County Library invite adults (age 14 and up) to participate in the Library’s fall adult reading program: BlitzRead! The program runs from September 2 to October 31, 2008. The goal of the program is to encourage adults to read and explore parts of the library’s collection of materials that they may not have been discovered. A focus for the 2008 BlitzRead! is the materials found in the 800 Dewey classification which includes humor, poetry, plays, essays, short stories and classic literature. How to participate: 1. Read or listen to any book. 2. Submit your entry for a chance to win a prize online or at any Johnson County Library location. 3. Repeat Steps one and two! Read or listen to as many titles as you'd like to increase your chances of winning! Prizes: Each of the 13 Johnson County Library locations will hold a drawing from submitted entries for a $25 Visa Gift Card. One Grand Prize Winner will win a $100 Visa Gift Card! Entry forms also available at all Library locations. Readers are encouraged to visit the library’s Web site, www.jocolibrary.org/BliltzRead for more information and resources and to participate online. Requests for materials may be placed through the Library’s online catalog with a library card and personal identification number (PIN). Several Programs are being held at Johnson County Library locations in conjunction with 2008 Blitz Read!: Central Resource Library, 9875 W. 87th, Overland Park, KS (913) 495-2400 BlitzRead! Kickoff Monday, September 8 • 7:00 - 8:30 PM Help kick off the Johnson County Library’s 2008 adult reading program BlitzRead! by attending a poetry CD release party featuring local poets. No registration. Gardner Nieghborhood Library, 137 E. Shawnee St., Gardner, KS (913) 856-7223 Memoir Writing Workshop Wednesday, September 24 • 3:00 - 4:30 PM Join Tom Gray, former FBI agent and published writer, in learning about and practicing memoir writ¬ing techniques. Registration requested. Shawnee Neighborhood Library, 13811 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, KS (913) 962-3800 Weapons Demonstration (*Great Photo Opportunity) Wednesday, October 1 • 7:00 - 8:30 PM This program will be held at the Shawnee Civic Center, across from the library. The Society for Cre¬ative Anachronism will provide a demonstration of pre-17th century European weapons. No registration necessary. Presenter: Society for Creative Anachronism Corinth Neighborhood Library, 8100 Mission Rd., Prairie Village, KS (913) 967-8650 Why Read?* Wednesday, October 15 • 10:30 - 11:30 AM Why read when you can listen? Does your child HATE to read? Do you ever have trouble getting a book for school or book club? Try listening instead! We’ll learn about available options and demonstrate how to download books onto a computer and then transfer to an MP3 player. Edgerton Neighborhood Library, 319 E. Nelson, Edgerton, KS (913) 893-6720 Why Read? Wednesday, October 22 • 6:30 - 7:30 PM Why read when you can listen? Does your child HATE to read? Do you sometimes have trouble get¬ting a of book for school or book groups? Try listen¬ing instead! We’ll learn about available options and demonstrate how to download books onto a computer and then transfer to an MP3 player. Off Site Programs: The Writer's Place 3607 Pennsylvania, Kansas City, MO BlitzRead! Poetry CD release party Sunday, September 14 * 7:00 p.m. Help kick off the Johnson County Library's 2008 adult reading program BlitzRead! by attending a poetry CD release party featuring local poets. No registration. Santa Marta 13800 W. 116th St., Olathe, KS An Afternoon with C.W. Gusewelle Monday, September 22 • 1:00 PM Join us in celebration of BlitzRead! as KC Star col¬umnist and author Charles Gusewelle shares stories from his literary career and the humor he encounter in every day life. For more information, call (913) 495-2466. Greenwood Terrace 1150 S. Greenwood, Overland Park, KS Senior Barn Players: Have Props Will Travel Thursday, September 25 • 2:00 PM Join us at Greenwood Terrace in celebration of Blitz¬Read! The Senior Barn Players will provide a hilari¬ous bellyaching performance in recognition of humor and fun. For more information, call (913) 495-2466. Library programs are open to the pubic and free of charge. Interpretive services and other accommodations for those with special needs are available. Please request from library staff 48 hours or more in advance of scheduled event. back to top Library Offers free Homework Help At four library locations and online The Johnson County Library is offering free homework assistance for students at four library locations beginning August 18 through December 12, 2008. The drop-in Homework Help program provides homework coaches who are available to assist students after school and on Sundays. The library provides many useful resources for students. The goal of the program is to teach students how to use library resources to complete their homework assignments. “Homework coaches aid and motivate by demonstrating the use of library resources including books and articles both in the library and online,” stated Erin Howerton, Johnson County Library School Liaison. “The coaches can show students how to find and use information to complete their assigned homework,” she said. The schedule for Homework Assistance at Johnson County Library locations is as follows: Central Resource Library, 9875 W. 87th St., Overland Park, KS Sunday, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 4:00 to 7:00 pm. Oak Park Neighborhood Library, Monday through Thursday, 5:00 to 8:45 p.m. Gardner Neighborhood Library, 137 Shawnee St., Gardner, KS Monday through Thursday, 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Antioch Neighborhood Library, 8700 Shawnee Mission Pkwy., Merriam, KS Sunday, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. “Although librarians are always happy to assist students with their assignments,” Howerton stated, “this program is designed to address the after-school and weekend hours as a natural time to complete homework. With the addition of coaches and volunteers to library staff, there will always be more people at the library who can assist in clarifying and assisting students with their homework.” For students who cannot make it to a library location or who need help after hours, Live Homework Help is available via the Internet. Students in kindergarten through grade 12 can connect with expert tutors online at no charge. They can get instant help with math, science, English, and social studies. They can chat, share papers and other files and link to Web sites. Click on the HomeworkKansas icon on www.jocolibrary.org/homework to access this resource. The Johnson County Library Homework Help Program is generously supported by the Sprint Foundation, Capitol Federal Foundation and the Johnson County Library Foundation. Interpretive services and other accommodations for those with special needs are available. Please request these services or accommodations from library staff 48 hours or more in advance of scheduled event. To learn more about the Homework Help program, contact Erin Howerton at (913) 495-2432 or visit the library Homework Help Web Site: www.jocolibrary.org/homework. back to top Library to host Variety of gaming events in September The Johnson County Library will host a variety of gaming events during September at several library locations. Teens are encouraged to participate in the Johnson County Library/GameStop Madden NFL ’09 (for Xbox 360) tournament which will be held on Saturday, September 6, from 1 to 4 p.m. in the Carmack Community Room of the Central Resource Library, 9875 W. 87th St, Overland Park, KS. Sixty-four teens (ages 12-18) will complete for ultimate glory and prizes in this special event. Registration is required for the Madden 09 tournament is required and may be made online at the Library teen website: www.jocoteenscene.org or by calling 913-495-2400. This event is sponsored by GameStop who is providing equipment and prizes. September gaming events at Johnson County Library locations include: We’ve Got a Wii Friday, September 5, 2008 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM DeSoto Neighborhood Library – 33145 W. 83rd St., De Soto, KS, (913) 583-3106 Drop in and test your skills. Wii Sports and a variety of other games will be available for play. Under 18 only. No registration required. Are You Ready for Some Football? Saturday, September 6, 2008 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM Central Resource Library, 9875 W. 87th St., Overland Park, KS (913) 495-2490 Madden NFL 09. Xbox360. Tournament. Bring your game or get schooled. Prizes and all game equipment provided by GameStop. Ages 12-18. Registration begins August 16; register online or call (913) 495-2400. Please include your email address if you would like a reminder. "Wii" Want You Tuesday, September 9, 2008 4:00 PM Edgerton Neighborhood Library -- 319 E. Nelson, Edgerton, KS, (913) 893-6720"Wii" want you to join us for an afternoon of gaming with the library's own Wii system. Cool down, relax and show off your skills with Wii Sports and a variety of other video games. Ages 11 - 15. No registration necessary. Game Day Friday, September 19, 2008 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM Lackman Neighborhood Library -- 15345 W. 87th St. Pkwy., Lenexa, KS, (913) 495-7540 Wii, Xbox, & DDR, plus a variety of board games while you wait your turn. Come game with us. All ages. Drop in anytime throughout the afternoon. Xbox Drop-In Friday, September 19, 2008 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM DeSoto Library, Neighborhood Library – 33145 W. 83rd St., De Soto, KS, (913) 583-3106 Celebrate the summer! Come cool off at the library and play video games on Xbox. Under 18 only. Dance Dance Revolution and Wii Play Saturday, September 27, 2008 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM Central Resource Library -- 9875 W. 87th St., Overland Park, KS, (913) 495-2490 Wii Sports and DDR — We’ve got ‘em. Just drop in and play! Ages 10-18. The purpose of the Johnson County Library Gaming events is to create connections among those in the community who are interested in gaming, especially teens, and to increase awareness of library services and materials for this audience. The video game community has few gathering places. The event is an opportunity to provide a broad range of participants with interaction and engagement opportunities through networks facilitated by the library. The Library has a variety of games that may be checked out. Visit www.jocoteenscene.org for a list of titles. 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. back to top Hispanic Heritage Month At Johnson County Library The Johnson County Library will celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 - October 15) with a variety of programs at several library locations. The community is invited to attend and enjoy these colorful cultural activities filled with exciting music, dance and crafts. These are great family events for all ages. There will also be a community issues forum on the challenges of immigration in September. Hispanic Heritage Month Fiesta* Friday, September 12, 2008 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Oak Park Neighborhood Library 9500 Bluejacket, Overland Park, KS (913) 752-8700 Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at Oak Park Neighborhood Library with crafts, music and dancers! Children’s crafts begin at 6:00 p.m. with the special performers, Ballet Folklorico of Kansas City, at 7:00 p.m. Spanish Music and Dance* Saturday, September 20, 2008 2:00 PM Antioch Neighborhood Library 8700 Shawnee Mission Pkwy., Merriam, KS (913) 261-2319 Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month! OLÉ MUSIC & DANCE OF SPAIN, a diverse group of talented musicians and dancers will share the passion and energy of flamenco and Spanish dance. Refreshments provided. Great for the whole family! No registration necessary. Hispanic Fiesta* Saturday, September 27, 2008 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM Sponsored by Johnson County Library, this program will take place at the Roeland Park Community Center - 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. A fun afternoon of Hispanic music, dance, crafts, and food! Performers include: Andean Express, Taqui Sisacuna of Peru and El Ballet Folklorico Atotonilco. No registration necessary. For more information call the Cedar Roe Neighborhood Library, (913) 384-8590. Community Issues Forum: The Challenges of Immigration** Wednesday, Sept. 24 * 6:30 - 8:30 PM The United States has traditionally defined itself as a land of opportunity, a refuge from persecution, and a nation of immigrants. However, immigration has become a controversial topic with some people believing that immigration should be tightly controlled and others believing that amnesty and flexibility will enable more people to join in the American dream. Join us for a thoughtful, moderated discussion where we explore the issues and the values that affect it. Refreshments provided. Registration is requested. Register online or call (913)495-2497. Leave your information on the recording. For more information visit the library Web site www.jocolibrary.org or call (913) 495-2466. All Johnson County 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. back to top Thousands of items bargain priced At Library September used book sale Thousands of gently used books and audiovisual materials will be offered for sale at bargain prices at the September 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, September 11-13, 2007. Sale hours are: Thursday, September 11 • 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Friday, September 12 • 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Saturday, September 13 • 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. This popular September Book Sale will feature a variety of fiction and nonfiction hardback and paperback books for adults and youth. Some audiovisual materials will also be available. Most items are priced at $1.00 and 50¢. Some materials may be specially priced. All sales are final; checks, MasterCard 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. (Please, no text books over three years old or magazines.) For more information, call (913) 261-2319 or visit www.jocolibrary.org/friends. back to top County Library is The place to be this summer During the month of July, the Johnson County Library was THE place to be and greeted more monthly visitors than ever before. And those who visited checked out a record number of items, making it a double record breaking month. User visits in July 2008 stood at 259,276, breaking the old record of 251,413 set in July of 2002. These are the only two times in JCL history where more than a quarter of a million persons visited the library in one month. July 2008 visits were up 11% over July 2007’s 233,258. The number of items checked out in July 2008 was up 6% from July 2007, with a final number of 610,986. The July 2007 number was 574,348. The checkout in July 2008 set a new record for monthly circulation, breaking the July 2006 record of 606,072. Donna Lauffer, County Librarian, reported these figures to the Library Board at its regular August 20 meeting. “It is anticipated that the Library will check out more than 6,250,000 items before the end of the year,” she said. It is interesting to note that since the Library began keeping statistics in 1956, a total of 115,658,416 items have been checked out. Lauffer stated that there are many reasons to come to library locations in addition to checking out reading materials. “Johnson County Libraries are popular places for all ages,” she stated. “People come to library for a variety of reasons… the youth summer reading program, book discussion groups, cultural and educational programs, to view art exhibits and see artists-in-residence at work, issues forums, homework assistance, study groups, newspapers and magazines, public use computers and wireless access for those who want to bring their own laptops. The tight economy may also have brought people to the library to utilize free resources and check out materials rather than purchase them.” Johnson County Library was founded in 1952. It was received the 2005 National Award for Museum and Library Service, the nation’s highest honor for extraordinary public service provided by a library or museum. Johnson County Library has consistently ranked as one of the nation’s best libraries according to the Hennen American Public Library Rating (HAPLR) Index which has been published six times since 1999. The index measures library effectiveness and efficiency. Related Information 1952 - Library established in 1952 by vote of public, volunteers operated libraries 1955 - First Budget approved ($38,000) and first librarian hired 1956 - First year statistics were kept Yearly statistics firsts 1984 - Johnson County Library checked out 1,000,000 items in the year 1989 - Johnson County Library checked out 2,000,000 items in the year 1992 - Johnson County Library checked out 3,000,000 items in the year 1996 - Johnson County Library checked out 4,000,000 items in the year 2001 - Johnson County Library checked out 5,000,000 items in the year 2005 - Johnson County Library checked out 6,000,000 items in the year Cumulative totals 1971 – Total Library check outs reached 10 million 1987 – Total Library check outs reached 25 million 1996 – Total Library check outs reached 50 million 2001 – Total Library check outs reached 75 million 2006 – Total Library check outs reached 100 million items Number of items in the collection (holdings) – 1,175,679 (July 31, 2008) back to top Heritage Park's Blackbob island closed effective immediately The barn on Blackbob Island in Heritage Park was closed effective Friday, Aug. 22, due to public safety concerns, Johnson County Park and Recreation District officials announced . The decision was based on structural concerns following a staff review and under the advisement of an architectural engineer. The barn, which has been used as a rental facility since the park opened in 1981, was originally built for agricultural use as a cattle barn, probably in the 1940s. The island has been fenced off and is closed to the public. Heritage Park is located at 16050 Pflumm Road, Olathe. For more information, contact Planning and Development Manager Cliff Middleton at (913) 894-3342. back to top Boys Lacrosse Clinic begins Sept. 14 Boys in grades three through six can learn the fundamentals of Lacrosse during a clinic being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District beginning in mid-September. The registration deadline for this program is Sept. 9. This Boys Lacrosse Clinic is designed to teach basic skills and further knowledge of the game of Lacrosse. The clinic covers four weeks of instruction, drills, and noncompetitive games. A mouthpiece is required and sticks will be provided. This clinic is a prerequisite for participation in the Spring Lacrosse League. Search for the keyword "Lacrosse" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This clinic will take place beginning Sept. 14 at Blackbob Park (Field C), 14500 W. 151st Street, Olathe. Sessions for participants in grades three and four and grades five and six both start at 1:10 p.m.. The cost per person for four 80-minute sessions is $55 for Johnson County Residents or $60 for nonresidents. For more information, visit www.jcprd.com/activities/sports.cfm or call Jason Ford at (913) 831-3355 ext. 245. The JCPRD’s ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. 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 New Fitness Movement program offered for adults beginning Sept. 15 A new fitness class for adults aimed at beginning exercisers is being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District beginning in mid-September. The program is called Fitness Movement and is for ages 18 and older. The class will involve cardiovascular exercises meant to elevate participants' heart rate and burn calories and will utilize a variety of no- or low-impact exercises to work every major muscle group. Low-resistance strength training exercisers will also be part of this program. Search for the keyword "fitness" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This program will take place at 5:15 p.m. Monday beginning Sept. 15 at the Public Health Wellness Center, 11875 S. Sunset, Olathe. The cost for eight 60-minute sessions is $60 per person for Johnson County residents or $66 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 KC Water Polo Team for ages 11 and older begins Sept. 18 A Water Polo Team for ages 11 and up is being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District beginning Sept. 18. The program is called the KC Water Polo Team and is for both people who played the sport as a kid and for strong swimmers looking for fun. Sponsored by JCPRD and sanctioned by USA Water Polo, this program is a great way to stay fit. Practices last 90 minutes and are offered three times per week. Participants must register with USA Water Polo annually in order to practice or play. Search for the keywords "water polo" to find this program in the JCPRD’s online and Activities catalog listings. Practices take place at the Roeland Park Aquatic Center, 4843 Rosewood, Roeland Park. Practice sessions are offered at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday and at 10 a.m. Sunday. The cost for 12 90-minute sessions is $40 for residents or $44 for nonresidents. For more information, call Bruce Perry at (913) 481-1964. The JCPRD’s ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. 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 New intergenerational Geocaching Adventure program offered Sept. 19 Using a Global Positioning System (GPS) to locate hidden caches in Johnson County Park and Recreation District parks is the goal of a new intergenerational program offered in late-September. This program is called Geocaching Adventure and is for all ages. Geocaching is an outdoor treasure-hunting game in which participants use a GPS receiver to hide and seek containers called "geocaches," which contain a logbook and a "treasure" - usually toys or trinkets. Participants will learn in a fun and relaxed atmosphere how to use GPS to track a cache within six to 20 feet. This program will utilize GPS units donated to JCPRD by Olathe-based Garmin International in 2007 and promises to be a great way to be active and to become familiar with local parks while having fun and learning something new. Search for the keyword "geocaching" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Two different programs at two different parks on three different dates are planned this fall. Participants can participate in one program or sign up for both. This program will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 19, at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. Thee other fall program will take place on Oct. 23 at Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam. The cost for one two-hour cache hunt is $9 per person for Johnson County residents or $11 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

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