Johnson County, Kansas, Homepage - Feature Stories for 2009

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	JULY - 2009 Storytime Chefs Program on July 13 provides literature-based cooking experiences for Ages 6-10 Young chefs who also enjoy a great book are the targets of a program being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. Storytime Chefs is the name of the program, which is for ages six to 10. Taught by certified instructors, this class offers a literature-based cooking experience that is as unique as it is fun. Participants will read the selected book and then cook a meal related to the book. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "cooking" to find this program in the JCPRD’s Activities Catalog and online listings. The first program will take place on Monday, July 13 and will be based on the book Thunder Cake by Patricia Polacco. This program will take place beginning at 6 p.m. at the Culinary Resource Center, 13444 Santa Fe Trail Drive, Old Town Lenexa. The cost for one two-hour session is $22 per person for Johnson County residents or $24 per person for nonresidents. In addition, there is a supply fee of $5, payable to the instructor. Two additional offerings of Storytime Chefs are also scheduled during July. These include: a July 20 session based on the book Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey; and a July 27 session based on the book Sundae Scoop by Stuart Murphy. All sessions begin at 6 p.m. at the Culinary Resource Center and have the same costs as listed above. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Fruit & Vegetable stamping program for youth offered on July 13 and 15 Finally, a chance for kids to have fun playing with their food! The Johnson County Park and Recreation District is offering a program called Fruit and Vegetable Stamping for ages five through nine. Who knew vegetables could be so fun? Participants will have a chance to make flower stamps out of celery and tree prints out of asparagus, among many other projects. All materials are included. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "art" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities catalog and online listings. This program is being offered twice in mid-July. One program will take place beginning at 10 a.m. on Monday, July 13, at Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Meriam, while another will take place beginning at 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 15, at the Tomahawk Recreation Complex, 17501 Midland Drive. Class cost for one 60-minute lesson is $5 per person for Johnson County residents or $6 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 Bubble Makers and Airplane Excitement program Is July 14 Paper Airplanes and Soap Bubbles are two favorite outdoor summer activities and the topics of a program for youth being presented by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District Bubble Makers and Airplane Excitement is an opportunity for participants to use a variety of common household items such as coat hangers, plastic six-pack holders, straws, and more, to create bubbles. Participants will also create a variety of paper airplanes. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "art" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This program is for children ages five to eight and will take place under the big sycamore trees at the Tomahawk Recreation Complex, 17501 Midland Dr., Shawnee. This program is offered at 10 a.m. on July 14. The cost for one 60-minute session is $5 per person for Johnson County residents or $6 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 Final Summer Adventure Walks for 50 Plus are July 15 and 30 Missouri's Katy Trail and Kansas City's Union Cemetery are the two final destinations to be visited this year as part of Summer Adventure Walks being offered by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. The walking series aims to give participants an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and make new friends while following trails through parks and natural treasures. Summer Adventure Walks are led by the 50 Plus staff members and depart from Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "adventure walks" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. During each outing, the group will have lunch at a local restaurant (on your own). The Katy Trail Adventure Walk will take place on July 15. This hike is expected to require a moderate level of exertion. Participants will walk on a section of the trail located near the Rocheport (Mo.) trailhead, which is considered one of the most engaging portions of this trail which stretches a total of 225 miles across Missouri from St. Charles to Clinton, Mo. This area is a perfect place to find beautiful scenery, solitude, nature and a chance to spend time along the Missouri river. This program will depart at 8 a.m. Union Cemetery walk will take place on July 30 and is expected to require a moderate level of exertion. This historic burial ground was initially dedicated in the late 1850s and contains graves of many important people from the city's early history. The registration deadline for this walk is July 6. This program will depart at 9 a.m. The cost for either five-hour outing, including van transportation to the walk site, is $17 per person for Johnson County residents or $19 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. back to top Luau at the Pool for all ages planned on July 17 at Roeland Park Community Center An afternoon Luau at the Pool is being planned for July 17 at the Roeland Park Aquatics Center, 4843 Rosewood, Roeland Park, by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. Participants are invited to bring their kids or grandkids for a fun afternoon, including lunch, games, and a chance for prizes. Children and adults will get the opportunity to swim in the main pool, jump off the diving boards, slide down the slides, or just wade in the zero-depth entry pool. Perform a catalog search for the keywords "pool party" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This program will take place beginning at 10 a.m. on Friday, July 17. The cost for one two-hour event is $7 for adults and children over 12 and $5 for children 12 and under. 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 Library Wins National Achievement Awards The Johnson County Library (KS) has been recognized with seven awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo) and its subdivision, the National Association of County Information Officers (NACIO). The awards will be presented on July 26 during the NACo national conference in Nashville, TN. The Library’s Leadership Development Program for has received a 2009 NACo Achievement Award, recognizing it as a unique, innovative County Government program created to meet the needs of citizens. The Leadership Development Program for Library staff is a two-tiered, two-year curriculum intended to develop initiative and leadership at all levels of the library. The program was first implemented in 2007. It was created by then-Library Staff Development Manager Tiffany Hentschel and has been led for the past year by Jennifer Mahnken, Associate Director for Branch Services, and a Steering Committee. The program is a response to impending Baby Boomer retirements and strategic planning goals. To date, the Leadership Development Program has graduated 40 individuals and is now in its second two-year cycle. “In a year where we saw more applications than in the past four years, counties once again demonstrated their resilience and their ability to work harder in tough times,” said Jacqueline Byers, NACo’s Director of Research. “The winning programs were smart, efficient and cost effective.” From the hundreds of entries submitted for the competition, the Johnson County Library earned six 2009 NACIO Awards of Excellence for communications, marketing, video, and graphics projects: Experience Johnson County Library video - Computer Media – Erica Reynolds, David Carson (Superior) Big Read 2008 – Special Projects – Kasey Riley (Meritorious) Johnson County Library Strategic Plan Brochure – Cindy Frazer (Excellence) Moo Cards – Graphic Design, Special Graphics – Cindy Frazer (Meritorious) Participate in ’08 Election Video Contest – Computer Media, Other Projects – Kate Pickett & Kasey Riley (Excellence) Poetry Blitz – Computer Media, Other Projects – David Carson & Helen Hokanson (Excellence) back to top Gov Docs in National Spotlight The Johnson County Library is the first public library to be highlighted in the monthly Depository Library Spotlight on the Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP) Web site, www.fdlp.gov., and is featured in the July issue. Citing Johnson County Library staff for making government information relevant and available to users through “outreach and more outreach,” the article describes the library’s special Web pages about useful government information, an annual GovFest for business owners and would-be entrepreneurs, and staff leadership in the GovDoc Kids Group that sponsors the annual Constitution Day Poster Contest. Government Documents Librarian Martha Childers organizes the annual GovFest, which won an Achievement Award from the National Association of Counties (NACo) in 2008. She coordinates the library’s tax forms, tax volunteers, and tax information that helped more than 5,000 patrons in the library system during the 2009 tax season. She also writes a library Web site blog (www.jocolibrary.org) about researching government information and tax tips. Childers is a founder and chairman of the GovDocs Kids Group, a multi-state group of information professionals who engage with and provide resources about U.S. Government to K-12 students, teachers, and librarians. One of the group’s activities is the annual Web-based Constitution Day Poster Contest that draws entries from all corners of the nation. Other area members of GovDocs Kids Group are Arlene Wiler, a Youth Services Librarian with the Johnson County Library, and Mary Burtzloff, an Archivist with the National Archives and Records Administration in Kansas City. A Federal depository library since 1979, the Johnson County Library’s depository collection is designed to support area business community, local government, student researchers, and general public researchers of all ages. back to top Teen Artist and Writer in Residence to demonstrate their creativity During July The Johnson County Library will host Michelle “Mickey” Willard as teen artist-in-residence and Leslie Goodwin as teen writer-in-residence during July. Willard will create art live at the library on Monday afternoons in July from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Central Resource Library, 9875 W. 87th Street, Overland Park, KS. Visitors are encouraged to watch her sketch and visit with her regarding her artistic process. Goodwin will lead creative writing workshops for middle school students, ages 11-14. They will be able to share and collaborate with other writers face-to-face and via the Libraries Summer Reading Teen Writers’ Blog. A Summer of Expression Reception will be held on Saturday, July 18 at 2:00 p.m. at the Central Resource Library, 9875 w. 87th St. Overland Park. This will be a casual afternoon of poetry and art appreciation honoring Michelle Willard, Teen Artist-in-Residence, and Leslie Goodwin, Teen Writer-in-Residence. Registration is not necessary. Willard received 1st place category: Art at NJCL Latin convention 2008, is published in Johnson County Library’s teen zine elementia 2008. Her artwork was accepted into Penpoint, SMNW's literary magazine- 2008 and 2009 fan art appeared in episode 14 of The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack on Cartoon Network. Goodwin is a freshman at KU and majoring in English with an emphasis in Creative Writing and minoring in Women’s Studies. Leslie prefers to write fictional pieces that tend to be short to long stories. She has won the Rare Inspirations writing contest, she was the grand prize winner of the Stop Underage Drinking Essay Contest, and wrote and gave the Senior Oration at her high school graduation in 2008.. She is the facilitator for Creative Commons, a creative writing workshop for high school students, and the teen creative writing blog, Candid Smiles and Vogue Rockstars. Special Libray Programs featuring Teen Artist and Writer in Residence: COMIC DRAWING WORKSHOP by Mickey Willard Friday, July 10 and 24 2009 11:00 AM Central Resource Library, 9875 W. 87th St., Overland Park, KS This is a two-part hands on workshop with Teen Artist-in-Residence, Michelle “Mickey” Willard. Work with Mickey to enhance your manga/comic drawing skills and create an original piece of art. Ages 11-13. Space is limited. To register call 913-495-2490. Oak Park Neighborhood Library Workshop with Leslie Goodwin 9500 Bluejacket, Overland Park, KS Express, Believe, Inspire: Creative Writing Workshop Fridays, and July 10-24, 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Shawnee Neighborhood Workshop with Leslie Goodwin 13811 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, KS Express, Believe, Inspire: Creative Writing Workshop Wednesdays, July 1-22, 2 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Willard’s art will be featured all summer at http://www.jocoteenscene.org/teenartist and Goodwin’s information can be viewed at http://www.jocoteenscene.org/teenwriter. All 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 Cardboard Boat Regatta cancelled for 2009 Plans for a new special event in late July called the Rock-n-Row Cardboard Boat Regatta have been postponed for this year, but officials with the Johnson County Park and Recreation District still hope to launch the event in 2010. "Interest in the regatta has been hampered by our slow economy," said Childrens Services Manager Kim Chappelow-Lee, who helped plan the event. "Event planners feel a well-attended inaugural event is key to assuring that the regatta becomes an annual tradition enjoyed by Johnson Countians for many years to come." As originally planned, this year's event would have taken place on Saturday, July 25, at the Shawnee Mission Park Beach. It would have featured a Novice Division where participants would have built their craft on-site, and a Master's Division where participants would have built their boats off-site. Both groups would have raced for prizes on a 200-yard semicircular coarse starting and ending at the beach. Chappelow-Lee said next year’s regatta will again be slated for the last Saturday in July, or July 24, 2010. For general information about the regatta visit www.jcprd.com. Organizers said part of the appeal of this kind of event is that the boat building and racing process fosters learning, teamwork, and a lot of fun. back to top Flag Football Camp offered for boys starting July 20 July 16 is the registration deadline for a Flag Football Camp being offered by boys in grades one through six by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. This camp is designed to provide basic skills in the game of football. These fundamentals will be covered so campers can improve their skills in a positive learning environment. Each participant will receive a camp T-shirt. Perform a catalog search for the keywords "flag football" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Play for this four-session program will take place Monday, July 20 through Thursday, July 23 at Field C at Thomas S. Stoll Memorial Park, 12500 W. 119th St., Overland Park. Camp will meet from 9 to 11 a.m. each day. The cost is for four two-hour sessions is $50 per person for Johnson County residents or $55 for nonresidents. For a flyer on this program, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com/pdf.cfm or call (913) 831-3359. 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 Afternoon Artists program offered for youth starting July 21 Hot summer afternoons are a good time to do quiet indoor projects and children ages six to 11 will have a chance to do just that during a program called Afternoon Artists being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. Afternoon Artists is designed to challenge participant's creativity and imaginations through art and craft projects. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "art" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This program will be offered on Tuesdays beginning July 21 at the Tomahawk Recreation Complex, 17501 Midland Dr., Shawnee. The cost for two 90-minute sessions is $30 for Johnson County residents or $33 for nonresidents. All materials are included. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Johnson County Sailing Society to conduct second of two "Come Sail With Us" events on July 25 All sailors and sailing enthusiasts are invited to join the Johnson County Sailing Society for a special event on Saturday, July 25, at Shawnee Mission Park Lake, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee and Lenexa. The free one-hour event is called "Come Sail With Us" and will take place beginning at noon at the Shawnee Mission Park Marina on the north side of the lake. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "boating" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Participants should bring a sack lunch and dine with Sailing Society members. Following lunch, there will be an opportunity to sail a variety of vessels while participating in water activities like mock races or a sailing scavenger hunt. For more information, or to participate in Sailing Society races, please contact Nick Hockman at (913) 268-5683. back to top Overnight Fishing Opportunities planned at Shawnee Mission and Kill Creek parks in late July The third of four overnight fishing opportunities planned at Shawnee Mission Park Lake this summer as well as the first of two overnight fishing opportunities recently added at Kill Creek Park are planned for late July. Both Shawnee Mission Park and Kill Creek Park and owned and operated by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. Shawnee Mission Park is located at 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee and Lenexa, while Kill Creek Park is located at 11670 Homestead Lane, Olathe. The Kill Creek Park overnight fishing opportunity is July 18 while the Shawnee Mission Park fishing opportunity is July 25. After 11 p.m. on these respective dates, the parks will be open strictly for fishing only and park police officers will be on duty throughout the night. Fishing will be allowed from the bank or from watercraft. Park safety officials noted state law requires a white light be on at all times on boats on the water after sunset. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "fishing" to find this program in the JCPRD’s Activities Catalog and online listings. Before fishing, area anglers ages 16 to 64 will need to have a valid Kansas fishing license, a Johnson County Park and Recreation District fishing permit, and all appropriate boat tags, if applicable. District fishing permits are available at: the JCPRD Registration Office, Building C, 6501 Antioch Road, in the John Barkley Visitor Center at Shawnee Mission Park, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee and Lenexa; and at local sporting goods outlets. Park Police Community Relations Officer Billie Thompson said the two new Kill Creek Park overnight dates were recently added in response to requests from fishermen and local businesses. He said this is being done on a trial basis and if there is a good response, future overnight dates at Kill Creek Park could be scheduled next year. This year’s remaining overnight fishing opportunities are scheduled for Aug. 22 at Kill Creek Park and Aug. 29 at Shawnee Mission Park.. For more information about the overnight fishing program, call Mike Ray, Superintendent of Park Safety & Interpretation, at (913) 894-3385. back to top JCPRD Fall ACTIVITIES Catalog available after July 27 The Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Fall Activities catalog will be available after July 27. The quarterly publication lists more than 500 programs offered by the District from September though November and beyond, plus fall special events including the 50 Plus Games of Greater Kansas City, the Kids Klassic Run, Kansas Pioneer Girl Day, the Big Bad Pumpkin Race and Lakeside Bash, the Mildale Farm Fall Fest, and more. Fall offerings range from arts and crafts to sports to nature activities and include leagues, classes, seminars, workshops, and trips. Included are programs for toddlers through adults. Programs for ages 50 Plus are listed in a separate 50 Plus catalog, which will also be available after July 27. Pick up a copy of the 50 Plus catalog at District locations or call (913) 236-1246. Registration for classes in the Fall catalogs will begin immediately after the catalogs arrive. Fall offerings begin on or after Sept. 1. The Fall catalog also includes the District's 2008 Annual Report. This 16-page insert details the JCPRD's 2008 accomplishments, as well as financial reports and information. ACTIVITIES is mailed out to approximately 24,000 past participants who have taken part in a District program within the last year. Catalogs will also be available at Johnson County Library Branches, community centers, various businesses, and at District locations. Updated JCPRD program listings and 24-hour registration are available online at the District's website at www.jcprd.com. Look for Fall listings to be online the week of July 27 as well. back to top Next session of Women's Run & Reflect program begins July 27 Providing an opportunity for women to nourish both body and soul is the aim of a walking/running program being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. The program is called Women's Sunrise Run and Reflect and is for all ages. The Gary L. Haller Trail in the beautiful Mill Creek Streamway Park is the setting for this program, which will consist of 40 minutes of self-paced walking or running, 10 minutes of stretching and range-of-motion exercises, and concluding with a 10-minute reflection circle composed of short inspirational and motivating readings. Sign up solo, or with a friend or family member and prepare to be enriched by the experience. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "fitness" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This program will take place at 6:30 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday beginning July 27 at the Barker Road Access to the Mill Creek Streamway Park, 5946 Barker Road, Shawnee. The cost for 12 60-minute sessions is $72 per person for Johnson County residents or $79 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 New Dodgeball Camp offered for youth beginning July 27 Developing speed, agility, and good body awareness, and problem-solving skills are among the goals of a new Dodgeball Camp for youth being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. Dodgeball Camp is for ages 10 through 16. Participants will work on throwing, catching, and ball shielding skills, in addition to dodging skills. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "dodgeball" to find this program in the JCPRD’s Activities Catalog and online listings. This camp is offered at 1 p.m. Monday through Friday on July 27 through 31 at the KC Fencing Center, 9900 Antioch, Overland Park. The cost for five two-hour sessions is $75 per person for Johnson County residents or $83 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 New Health and Wellness Day program offered at MRCC on July 29 A new special event promoting health and wellness for all ages is being planned for July 29 by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District in conjunction with the City of Overland Park. The program is called Health and Wellness Day at will take place beginning at 11 a.m. at the Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty, Overland Park. This free event will feature health screenings, nutritional information, guest speakers, and free swim time. Other activities will include tours of the facility, a blood drive from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and a free indoor concert at 6:30 p.m. featuring Funky Moma. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "special event" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This seven and one-half hour event is free. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are preferred and can be arranged by calling (913) 895-6391 or at www.esavealifenow.org using the sponsor code: mattross. 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 Obesity Trends in Johnson County Although the overall rate of obesity in Johnson County is lower than the rate for the state of Kansas, the trend is still moving upward. Statistics show that in 2007, twenty-three percent, almost one quarter, of the adult population in Johnson County were obese (see below). Being obese increases your risk of diabetes, heart disease, stroke, arthritis and some cancers. If you are obese, losing even 5 to 10 percent of your weight can delay or prevent some of these diseases. According to the recently released “Kansas County Health Rankings 2009” by the Kansas Health Institute, 79.5% of Johnson Countians do not eat at least 5 fruits and vegetables a day and sixteen percent are physically inactive. “Make physical activity a regular routine - adults should get at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most days of the week - children should aim for at least 60 minutes.” Lougene Marsh, Director of the Johnson County Health Department recommends “include at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables each day, and watch portion sizes as a part of a healthy lifestyle.” The Johnson County Health Department encourages the public to “know their numbers” by offering education and screenings (for a nominal fee) including cholesterol and glucose on the first Wednesday of each month. Also, a height/weight, Body Mass Index (BMI) and body fat measurement (at no charge) is available utilizing the BIoMeasure Fitness Measuring System. To schedule an appointment, call 913-477-8325. Other resources include: http://www.cdc.gov/obesity/index.html http://www.obesity.org ; www.americanheart.org http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/obe/obe_whatare.html back to top $25,000 grant to fund library’s Early childhood literacy program The Kansas Health Foundation has awarded a $25,000 recognition grant to the Johnson County Library Foundation to fund the Johnson County Library’s new 6 By 6, Ready to Read: Six Skills by Six Years early childhood literacy program. The program will inform parents and caregivers of preschool-aged children about early literacy research and how they can help prepare children to be ready to read. The 6 by 6 Ready to Read program will have a special emphasis on serving low-income families with special skill-cards kits featuring early literacy activities for families and showcasing the artwork of Brad Sneed, a locally-based children's illustrator. The 6 By 6, Ready to Read program will position the Johnson County Library as an important early literacy resource available free of charge to the community. 6 by 6 refers to the six pre-reading skills children can start learning from birth and should acquire by around age six for children to be successful in learning to read: Print Motivation – Have Fun with Books Vocabulary – Talk, Talk, Talk Print Awareness – Notice Print All Around You Narrative Skills – Tell Stories about Everything Letter Knowledge – Look for Letters Phonological Awareness – Take Time to Rhyme “The generous Kansas Health Foundation grant will provide the Johnson County Library the opportunity to emphasize early childhood literacy. It will help the Library spread the 6 by 6, Ready to Read message to the community and provide resource for those that are underserved,” said County Librarian Donna Lauffer. “The pilot program will begin at Antioch Library this fall,” she stated. “The recognition grant program gives us the opportunity to work directly with organizations and communities doing innovative and meaningful work throughout the state,” said Steve Coen, president and CEO of the Kansas Health Foundation. “We believe the 6 by 6, Ready to Read program will have a significant and lasting impact on the children of Johnson County.” The Kansas Health Foundation is a private philanthropy dedicated to improving the health of all Kansans. For more information about the Kansas Health Foundation, please visit www.kansashealth.org. The Johnson County Library Foundation's mission is to build an endowment for the Library's collection and secure support for life-long learning programs offered at Johnson County Library. The organization, established in 1998, supports collection enrichment, youth homework assistance, art programs, early literacy initiatives, youth-at-risk programs and technology enhancement. The Foundation is widely known for its signature fundraising event, the Pinnacle Awards, held each fall, which recognizes community leaders in the arts, entrepreneurship, literacy and public engagement. The IRS recognizes the Foundation as a 501(c)3 organization and a 509(a)1 public charity, making all charitable gifts to the foundation 100% tax deductible. For more information, contact the Foundation office at (913) 495-7579 or visit www.jocolibraryfoundation.org. For more information on the Johnson County Library, call (913) 495-2400 or visit www.jocolibrary.org. back to top New Summer Special offered beginning July 20 at Heritage Park and Tomahawk Hills Golf Courses Special summer afternoon golf rates are being offered beginning Monday, July 20, at the Tomahawk Hills and Heritage Park golf courses, Johnson County Park at Recreation District officials announced. Under the new special, players can golf 18 holes for $32, including a cart, after 1 p.m. all seven days of the week. The special will run until Labor Day (Sept. 7) and represents a savings of up to $18 off of regular greens fees. This rate cannot be combined with coupons or other offers and will not apply on Labor Day. Tomahawk Hills Golf Course is located at 17501 Midland Drive, Shawnee, while the Heritage Park Golf Course, is located at 16445 Lackman, Olathe. For more information, contact Tomahawk Hills at (913) 631-8000 or Heritage at (913) 829-4653 ext. 3. back to top Aug. 1 is initial deadline for entering new Cars in the Park event Aug. 1 is the initial deadline for entering cars in a first-ever Cars in the Park Car Show which will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 22 at The Theatre in the Park in Shawnee Mission Park, 7710 Renner Road, Shawnee and Lenexa. Sought are vintage or contemporary cars, as well as trucks, hot rods, and motorcycles. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Special Olympics/ Special Populations program. Judging of entries will take place at noon with an award presentation at 3 p.m. Following the event at 4 p.m., participants are invited to cruise through beautiful Shawnee Mission Park. The first 250 participants will receive "goody bags" containing coupons, car products, and an event dash plaque. Complete a catalog search for the keywords "car show" to find these programs in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. The show is free for spectators to attend and will also feature music and dance, concessions, and door prizes, as well as activities in a "Kids Alley" and a model car contest. The event will take place rain or shine. The cost to enter the event is $20 per vehicle through Aug. 1. After that date, registrations will increase to $25 per vehicle and will be accepted through the day of the event. To register by phone, call (913) 831-3359. For more information about this event, contact School-Age Program Director Justin Chesser at (913) 909-1875. back to top Gracie Combative Course in Jiu-Jitsu offered beginning Aug. 4 A class in jiu-jitsu is being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District beginning in early August. 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. Perform a catalog search for the keywords "jiu-jitsu" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Class will take place at 7:45 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday beginning Aug. 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 JCPRD Beaches & Marinas closing soon The summer season for two beaches and three marinas operated by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District is quickly winding down. The facilities include: The Shawnee Mission Park Beach and Shawnee Mission Park Marina, both located in Shawnee Mission Park, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee and Lenexa; Kill Creek Park Beach and Marina, 11670 Homestead Lane, Olathe; and Heritage Park Marina, located in Heritage Park, 16050 Pflumm, Olathe. The marinas at Shawnee Mission and Kill Creek parks will open both end their summer hours on Aug. 9. Until then, Shawnee Mission Park Marina will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily and Kill Creek Park Marina will be open from noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The Heritage Park Marina closes Aug. 2, and will be open from Noon to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday until then. All three marinas offer boat rentals, including canoes, pedal boats, and fishing boats. Rentals rates are listed in the Summer Activities catalog, available now, and on the District's website at www.jcprd.com. Fishing permits are also available at the marinas. The Shawnee Mission Park Marina will continue to be open on weekends on Aug. 15 and 16, Aug. 22 and 23, Aug. 29-31, and Sept. 5-7. Also closing on Aug. 9 are Shawnee Mission Park Beach and Kill Creek Park Beach. Until then, Shawnee Mission Park Beach will be open daily from noon to 6 p.m. and Kill Creek Park Beach will be open only on weekends with Saturday, and Sunday hours of noon to 6 p.m. Daily rates at either facility for children 12 and under adults over 50 are $3 for Johnson County residents and $3.50 for nonresidents. Admission for adults is $5 for Johnson County residents and $5.50 for nonresidents. For more information about the beaches and marinas, call (913) 422-5599. In case of inclement weather, call the beaches and marina 24-hour information line at (913) 312-8847. back to top There's still time to participate in Passport to Adventure 2009 There's still plenty of time this year to participate in the Interpretive Site Coalition of Kansas City’s fourteenth annual Passport to Adventure event at the Ernie Miller Nature Center or at any of 16 other sites in the metro area. This year's event began in late April, but runs through Oct. 31. Passport to Adventure is a great way for area residents to experience nature, science, and history in their own backyard. The annual event is meant to encourage the public to visit area nature centers, museums and historic sites. The program is free and participants can obtain a passport at any of the sites below. Passport holders have until Oct. 31. to get their passport stamped at all 17 participating sites in order to be eligible for prizes. Everyone who does so will receive a special prize by mail. In addition, each participating site will offer a small complimentary gift for answering a question relating to the site at the time the passport is stamped. Sites participating in the 2009 Passport to Adventure are: Burr Oak Woods Conservation Nature Center 1401 NW Park Road, Blue Springs, MO (816) 228-3766 Cave Spring 8701 Gregory Blvd, Kansas City, MO (816) 358-2283 Discovery Center 4750 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO (816) 759-7300 Ernie Miller Nature Center 909 N. K-7 Highway, Olathe, KS (913) 764-7759 Fort Osage Historic Site 107 Osage St., Sibley, MO. (816) 650-3278 George Owens Nature Park 1601 South Speck Road, Independence, MO (816) 325-7115 Kansas City Museum 3218 Gladstone Blvd (816) 483-8300 Kemper Outdoor Education Center 8201 Jasper Bell Road, Blue Springs, MO (816) 229-8980 Lakeside Nature Center 4701 E. Gregory, Kansas City, MO (816) 513-8960 Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm Historic Site 1200 Kansas City Road, Olathe, KS (913) 971-5111 Martha Lafitte Thompson Nature Center 407 N. LaFrenz Road, Liberty, MO (816) 781-8598 Missouri Town 1855 8010 E. Park Road, Lee's Summit, MO (816) 503-4860 National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame 630 N 126th St., Bonner Springs, KS (913) 721-1075 National Frontier Trails Museum 318 W. Pacific Ave., Independence, MO (816) 325-7575 Powell Gardens 1609 NW, U.S. Highway 50, Kingsville, MO (816) 697-2600 Prairie Oak Nature Center 14701 Mission Drive, Leawood, KS (913) 681-0902 Wonderscope Children’s Museum 5700 King Street, Shawnee, KS (913) 268-4176 The Interpretive Site Coalition of Kansas City is a nonprofit organization made up of historical, natural, and cultural interpretive sites throughout the Kansas City area. For more information about the Passport to Adventure Hunt, call the Ernie Miller Nature Center at (913) 764-7759. back to top Great American Family Campout is Aug. 8 at Shawnee Mission Park What could be better than a family campout right here in Johnson County? A program being offered by the Children's Services Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District will give participants a rare opportunity to sleep under the stars in Shawnee Mission Park and participate in other outdoor activities. This event is called The Great American Family Campout and will take place beginning at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 8 and will run through about 10 a.m. on Sunday, Aug. 9. A similar event earlier this year drew more than 125 campers. Proceeds from the local event will benefit the Children's Services Department's New Horizon Camp for individuals with special needs. Whether you are an experienced camper or are looking for an activity to share with your family, this is your opportunity to camp in the safety of the largest park in Johnson County. Children's Services staff will be on hand throughout the night and JCPRD Park Police will also have a presence. In addition to spending a night under the stars in Shawnee Mission Park, participants will receive passes for admittance to Shawnee Mission Park Beach and pedal boat rental, and tickets to The Theatre in the Park’s production of "The Wizard of Oz" As a special bonus, participants will receive early admittance to the show, as well as the opportunity to attend a meet-and-greet with some of the actors in the show. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "overnight " to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Camping will take place in a large open field directly to the south of The Theatre in the Park complex and north of Shelter 2 in the Small Lakes Area. The Theatre entrance to the park is located at 7710 Renner Road, Shawnee and Lenexa. Campers will need to bring their own camping equipment including tents, sleeping bags, etc. Saturday evening dinner is not provided. Community grills are available at Shelter 2. Donuts, juice, and milk will be provided Sunday morning. The cost for this 20-hour event is $20 per person for adults and $15 per person for children three and up. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information about this program, contact Children's Services Specialist Rob Knaussman at (913) 236-1250. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com. To register by phone, call (913) 831-3359. back to top New Munchkin Muffin Morning Sing Along program offered for Youth at The Theatre in the Park on Aug. 8 Munchkins from the Merry Old Land of Oz will be taking over the stage at The Theatre in the Park on the morning of Saturday, Aug. 8, and youth ages five to ten are invited to join them. The stage will be set for a fun time, when the Johnson County Park and Recreation District presents this new program called the Munchkin Morning Sing Along. The Theatre in the Park is located in Shawnee Mission Park, with a separate entrance at 7710 Renner Road, Shawnee. Participants will get to sing songs from the family classic, and dance along the yellow brick road. A special treat of mini muffins with lemon drop lemonade will be served. Parents will have lots of opportunities to take photos, so be sure to bring a camera. Search for the keyword "theater" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This program will take place beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 8. The cost for this 60-minute program is $6 per child. Stage space is limited, so 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, call (913) 831-3359. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com. The Theater's regular production of The Wizard of Oz will take place on The Theatre in the Park Stage on the evenings of July 31 through Aug. 2 and Aug. 6-9. Gates open at 7:30 p.m. and the shows start at 8:30 p.m. Tickets at $8 for adults, $6 for children four to ten, and free for children three and under. back to top Introduction to Tree Climbing program offered at Shawnee Mission Park on Aug. 8 Do you have fond memories of climbing tree or do you want your child to have the same experiences? A program being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District can help. The program is called introduction to Tree Climbing and is for ages eight and older. Participants under 18 year of age must have a parent or guardian on-site. Adult participants are welcome as well. This is your chance to reach new heights by learning how to ascend and descend trees while wearing comfortable climbing harnesses and helmets. All equipment is provided and all knots are tied by staff. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "adventure" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This program is offered twice on Saturday, Aug. 8. One program will begin at 10 a.m., while another will start at 12:30 p.m. The cost for one two-hour sessions is $32 for Johnson County residents or $35 for nonresidents. Participants should wear long pants, closed-toe and heeled shoes and are required to complete medical and liability releases prior to climbing.. Preregistration is required and climbing site information, forms, and weather notices can be found at www.treeclimbingkansascity.com. 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 Financial Aid Fair At Johnson County Library The Johnson County Library will host a Financial Aid Fair on Tuesday, August 4 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Central Resource Library, 9875 W. 87th St. , Overland Park, KS. Representatives from area colleges, the military, federal student aid and area banks will be available to answer questions and provide information to help students attain their educational funding goals. The event is free and open to the public; no registration required. Organizations who will be attending the include: Avila University Brown Mackie College Johnson County Community College University of Kansas Federal Government Student Aid All five military branches For resources and more information on college scholarships and financial aid visit: www.jocolibrary.org/collegesandschools or call 913-495-2400. 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 program. back to top Library Foundation Providing important literary study tools With a $25,000 grant from the Johnson County Library Foundation, the Johnson County Library will convert part of its extensive print literary criticism collection to a web-based format. This grant represents the Foundation’s first Collection Enrichment Project, an annual effort to provide additional depth and breadth to the Library’s collection of materials and databases. The Library’s Contemporary Literary Criticism and Twentieth Century Literary Criticism collection currently consists of 478 printed volumes housed at the Central Resource Library, 9875 W. 87th St, Overland Park. The online database will replace the print volumes, and offer Library patrons access to the resources via home or school computers, with a library card and PIN, as well as on public computers at the Library’s 13 locations. The Library will be purchasing the database’s electronic files, meaning the material will be permanently available at Johnson County Library and will provide lasting value for the Library’s collection. The online version will feature an easy-to-use search engine, instead of requiring traditional printed indexes. This improvement will also provide a much-needed space-savings at the Central Resource Library. Literary study resources, such as Contemporary Literary Criticism and Twentieth Century Literary Criticism, are a critical tool for students and researchers. Students throughout Johnson County regularly utilize these research tools in their course work. The Johnson County Library Foundation's mission is to build an endowment for the Library's collection and secure support for life-long learning programs offered at Johnson County Library. The organization, established in 1998, supports collection enrichment, youth homework assistance, art programs, early literacy initiatives, youth-at-risk programs and technology enhancement. The Foundation is widely known for its signature fundraising event, the Pinnacle Awards, held each fall, which recognizes community leaders in the arts, entrepreneurship, literacy and public engagement. The IRS recognizes the Foundation as a 501(c)3 organization and a 509(a)1 public charity, making all charitable gifts to the foundation 100% tax deductible. For more information, contact the Foundation office at (913) 495-7579 or visit www.jocolibraryfoundation.org. back to top Library Offers new on-line language learning The Johnson County Library announces the addition of the Mango Languages online language-learning system which is available to those with a Johnson County library card and PIN. Mango is free of charge and provides a fun, fast and convenient solution to the community’s growing language learning needs. It is an easy way to learn to speak a foreign language. Mango’s online language learning system focuses on teaching actual conversation skills for a wide variety of languages. Each lesson combines real-life situations and audio from native speakers with an easy-to-follow interface and simple, clear instructions. Because it's completely web based, library patrons can learn anywhere they have an internet connection — at the library, a coffee shop, or even from home. Mango Languages currently offers 12 language courses — Brazilian Portuguese, Spanish, Japanese, French, German, Italian, Greek, Russian, Mandarin Chinese, ESL English for Polish speakers, ESL English for Spanish speakers, and ESL English for Brazilian Portuguese speakers — with many more to come. To access the Library’s Mango Language leaning system, go to www.jocolibrary.org/languages and enter your Johnson County Library Card and PIN. Mango Languages recently took second place in the Education category of the “Web 2.0 Awards” by SEOmoz and has been recommended by Education World for foreign language learning. back to top