Johnson County, Kansas, Homepage - Feature Stories for 2008

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	MAY - 2008 Summertime Arts & Crafts Festival is May 17 at Antioch Park Arts and crafts of all types will be on display when the Johnson County Park and Recreation District conducts its twenty-third annual arts and crafts festival, The Summertime Arts & Craft Festival. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 17 in Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch Road. Invited are artists of original works including drawing, painting, sculpture, fiber arts, woodcarving, jewelry, pottery, and folk arts. This will be the eleventh year the arts and crafts festival is held in conjunction with Merriam's Turkey Creek Festival, also in Antioch Park on May 17. Other Festival activities will include: a pancake feed from 7 to 11 a.m., the "One Hill of a Run," a parade at 11 a.m., free concerts, a petting zoo, pedal boat rides, hands-on arts and crafts for kids, and giant air structures and inflatables. Booth space for the arts and crafts show is still available. For more information, contact Fine Arts Coordinator Marsha Norman at (913) 631-7050 ext. 443. For information on other Festival events, go to wwww.merriam.org/park or call Merriam Parks and Recreation at (913) 322-5550. back to top Johnson County Sailing Society to conduct first of two "Come Sail With Us" events on May 17 All sailors and sailing enthusiasts are invited to join the Johnson County Sailing Society for a special event on Saturday, May 17, 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, 7900 Renner Road, located near the marina. 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. The society will conduct another "Come Sail With Us" event on June 28. For more information, or to participate in Sailing Society races, please contact Nick Hockman at (913) 268-5683. Water levels in Shawnee Mission Park Lake have returned to normal levels thanks to spring rains after being lowered by as much as nine feet in 2007 for lake-related projects including the installation of a wetlands on the lake's east end. back to top Registrations being taken for Bikesource Duathlon & Triathlon at Heritage Park on May 18 Registration deadlines are approaching for the BikeSource Duathlon and Triathlon at Heritage Park, which will take place beginning at 7:30 a.m. on Sunday, May 18, in Heritage Park, 16050 Pflumm Road, Olathe. The BikeSource Triathlon consists of a one-third mile swim, followed by an 11.5-mile bike, and a three-mile run on a relatively flat course. The triathlon is open to all individuals ages 15 and over, with participants competing in five-year age groups from 15 years to 90 and above. Team categories include: men, women, coed, family, and corporate. Two- and three-person teams will again be accepted. The BikeSource Duathlon consists of a two-mile run, followed by a 11.5-mile bike, and a three-mile run. The last two legs of the event take place on the same courses as the triathlon. The duathlon is open only to individuals, not teams. Registration fees for either event are $55 for individuals and $80 for triathlon teams if postmarked by Tuesday, May 7. After this date, late fees will be assessed as follows: registrations postmarked between May 5 and 7 will be $65 for individuals and $90 for teams, and registrations turned in May 7 through race day are $75 and $100. Mail-in registrations must be postmarked no later than May 7, while the deadline for fax and online registrations is also May 7. Each entrant will receive a T-shirt and a swim cap. This event is limited to 500 entries and typically fills one week prior to race day. The BikeSource Duathlon and Triathlon is a special event of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District and is sponsored by BikeSource; Drs. Hawks, Besler & Rogers; Enhanced Vision Center; Smoothie King; the Think Fit Foundation; Radio Stations 810 WHB, and Hot Talk AM 1510; Tri-KC Triathlon Club; and KC Multisport. Proceeds from the triathlon and duathlon will benefit the Kansas City Blazers Competitive Swim Team. For more information or a registration form, call (913) 831-3359. Registrations are being taken on-line at www.sportkc.org. Event brochures with complete details are available at www.jcprd.com/activities/special_events.cfm. back to top Roeland Park Aquatic Center to close for summer preparations The Roeland Park Aquatic Center will close to the public for portions of two weeks as annual preparations are made for the facility's summer season. The RPAC, which is located at 4843 Rosewood just east of the Roeland Park Community Center, will be closed from May 12 through 16 and will have limited hours for lap swimming only from May 19 through 23. During this time, Johnson County Park and Recreation District staff will take down the air-supported dome which covers the 50-meter main pool from September through May. It takes 30 to 40 people, working on tarps used to temporarily cover the pool, to move and fold the 6,800 pounds of fabric which makes up the dome. When it reopens to the general public on May 24 just in time for Memorial Day Weekend, the RPAC will have been converted to an aquatic theme park featuring not only the main pool but a number of other facilities located outside the dome, which are only operated during the summer months. These include: a 120-foot water slide, an eight-foot wide group slide, a Vortex Pool for inner tubes complete with a concrete volcano that periodically "erupts," and a separate youth pool with a slide and "lemon drop" sprayers. The cost for individual admission for ages three through 49 is $6 for Johnson County residents or $6.50 for nonresidents. The cost for ages 50 and older is $5 for Johnson County residents or $5.50 for nonresidents. There is no cost for ages 2 and under. Season and annual passes as well as multiple-visit punch cards are also available, with costs depending on age and city of residence. Summer open swim sessions are held daily Monday through Sunday from noon to 8 p.m. Several special events, including a "Splash for Cash" on July 4 are being planned this summer. The facility is also available for birthday parties. For information on current happenings at the facility, call the pool hotline at (913) 312-8838 or call the pool 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-removal plans, please call Aquatics Coordinator Bruce Perry at (913) 432-7773. back to top Dine, Dish and Of Course....Dessert event for Red Hatters is May 22 at Roeland Park Community Center Dine, Dish and of Course....Dessert is the name of an event for area Red Hatters being offered in late May by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. Participants will gather for an evening of good times, laughter, and great Italian food. Red Hatters will have an opportunity to share about their group and meet more their "sisters." If you're not currently a member of the Red Hat Society, please call (913) 826-3160 for more information about what this group is all about. Search for the keywords "special event" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Dine, Dish and of Course....Dessert will take place on Thursday, May 22 at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. The cost for one two-hour-hour event is $12 per person Preregistration is required. 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. 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. back to top Openings remain for Outdoor Discovery Camp at Shawnee Mission Park Letting children have experiences exploring wild places, building forts in the forest, and developing a closeness to nature are among goals of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Outdoor Discovery Camp being offered this summer at Shawnee Mission Park, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee and Lenexa. This program is for ages six through 12. Participants will have fun learning about the great outdoors through hikes, environmental games, nature crafts, and more. Other camp features include enriching stories by our storytellers, swimming, boating, fishing, and archery. This program is offered weekly from May 27 through July 28. Each week, there will also be an educational field trip to complement the weekly camp themes which range from pirates, to orienteering, to dinosaurs, to climate change, to water. This camp is fully licensed by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the counselor-to-camper ratio will be 10-to-1 or better. Search for the keyword "camp" to find this program in the JCPRD's ACTIVITIES Catalog and online listings. Camp activities begin at 9 a.m. and continue until 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. For the convenience of working parents, supervision will be provided from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily. Children should bring swimming gear, a nutritious sack lunch and drink, and a canteen. Camp will meet at Shawnee Mission Park's Shelter #12 located at 7838 Beach Drive at the northeast end of the lake. Outdoor Discovery Camp is also offered this summer at Ernie Miller Park in Olathe, but those sessions have already filled and waiting lists are forming. Enrollment at Shawnee Mission Park is limited to 48 campers per week. The cost for five eight-hour sessions is $103 per child for Johnson County Residents or $113 for nonresidents. Camp fees are nonrefundable. For more information, call the Nature Center at (913) 764-8580 ext. 23 or 27. 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. Camp registrations are accepted online at www.jcprd.com or by mail, fax, or in-person at the JCPRD Registration Office at Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam. No phone registrations will be accepted. An orientation session will take place beginning at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 15, at Shawnee Mission Park Shelter #12 and will cover camp policies, paperwork and general information. back to top Middleton is JCPRD's new Planning and Development Manager Longtime Johnson County Park and Recreation District Landscape Architect Cliff Middleton has been promoted to Planning and Development Manager. Middleton officially stepped into his new position on April 14. This follows the promotion of former Planning and Development Manager Bill Maasen to Superintendent of Parks and Golf Courses effective March 24. With the move, Middleton became a member of the District's ten-member Administrative Staff. "After interviews of both internal and external candidates, it became quite clear that the best candidate was right here already," said Executive Director Michael Meadors. "Cliff’s 21 years as the District’s Landscape Architect provides him with all the knowledge and history to ensure the continued oversight of all District renovations and future developments." Middleton said pursuing this position seemed like a logical career progression. "I can continue to have a positive impact on the District’s facilities and parks," he said. "The Planning and Development staff is a great team that I am proud to be associated with. I have spent the last 21 years engaged in the complex issues of developing and renovating our park and recreation facilities." Middleton anticipates environmental issues will have a major impact on the District's Planning and Development Department in the coming years. "We will be mandated by both public opinion and government regulation to be more environmentally responsible with our future developments," he said. "We need to evaluate our entire planning, construction, and maintenance processes to lessen the impact on both our natural resources and the resources used to construct our buildings, structures, and facilities." Resource preservation and restoration is another challenge he identified. "Our parks are suffering from their popularity," Middleton said. "You can easily see the wear and impacts from high use in many of our parks and facilities. Our challenge will be finding ways to keep our natural areas beautiful and our older recreation facilities safe and inviting on limited budgets." A native of Kansas City, Mo., Middleton holds a bachelor's degree in landscape architecture from Kansas State University. Before coming to the District, he worked for about three years in the planning department of the City of Overland Park, and about two and one-half years with the Olathe Park and Recreation Department. Among his accomplishments during his time with the District is the design of the first phase of development of Kill Creek Park, which opened in November 2001, and his work on a Geographic Information System (GIS) for the District. Middleton is a registered and licensed Landscape Architect in the state of Kansas and a member of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) and the National Recreation and Park Association. back to top Join the Library Summer Reading Club The 2008 summer reading clubs at Johnson County Library begin on Tuesday, May 27 and run through Saturday, August 2. This year, readers and listeners of all ages are encouraged to investigate the exciting world of books by keeping a log of books read and by attending library programs throughout the summer. The theme for kids in fifth grade and under is Catch the Reading Bug @ Your Library; grades six and up may participate in Blow Your Mind: Metamorphosis@ Your Library. Reading logs are available at all Johnson County Library locations or may be printed from the Library’s summer reading Web site, www.jocolibrary.org/summerreading. Summer reading program participants set their own goals for summer reading, record their books on their reading logs, and return the logs to the library July 14- August 2. Participants who complete the program will receive a free paperback book while supplies last. Weekly prize drawings will also be held during the summer at each library location. The summer reading clubs are supported by a generous donation from the Friends of the Johnson County Library. For more information about Johnson County Library summer programs check the library’s web site: www.jocolibrary.org or pick up an activity calendar any Johnson County Library location. back to top Kansas City Literary Festival The Johnson County Library will host author visits in conjunction with the Kansas City Literary Festival. Dana Stabenow and Gail Giles will appear at Johnson County Library locations as follows: Meet Dana Stabenow Friday, May 16 2:00 p.m. Central Resource Library 9875 W. 87th Street, Overland Park, (913) 495-2466 Best-selling mystery author Dana Stabenow will talk about her life in Alaska as well as her life as a mystery author. Don’t miss an opportunity to meet this great author in person. I Love a Mystery Book Store will be on hand selling books. Dana will be available for signing after her presentation. Meet Gail Giles Friday, May 16, 2008 7:00 p.m. Blue Valley Neighborhood Library 9000 W. 151st St. • Overland Park, KS 66221 (913) 495-3850 Meet Gail Giles, author of young adult novels Shattering Glass, Right Behind You, What Happened to Cass McBride?, and Dead Girls Don’t Write Letters. Her debut novel, Shattering Glass, was an ALA Best of the Best Book, a Book Sense 76 selection, and a Booklist Top 10 Mystery for Youth selection. She is a former high school teacher who grew up in Texas and now lives there happily with her husband, two dogs and three cats. Gail has one son and two grandsons. Borders will have books available for purchase and signing at the program. The Johnson County Library and Friends of the Library will also have a booth (#405 located in the 400 block of Nichols Road) at the Kansas City Literary Festival. Authors who will be at the booth include: Dana Stabenow, Andrea Warren, William Colby, Sally Goldenbaum, and Jeannine Fox. The 2008 Kansas City Literary Festival (KCLF) which is in its second year is scheduled for May 17, 2008 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on the Country Club Plaza. The 2008 festival will feature approximately 100 authors--both highly acclaimed national authors in addition to quality local and regional authors. The festival will feature six stages: the main stage, the popular kids' stage and activity area, a poetry stage, a specialty authors' stage, a culinary stage and, new this year, a panels and workshops' stage. Admission is free. For more information on the Kansas City Literary Festival visit www.kansascitylitfest.org. Interpretive services and other accommodations for those with special needs are available for Library programs. Please request from library staff 48 hours or more in advance of scheduled event. Library programs are open to the public and free of charge back to top First of Two Presentations of T.A.K.E. Self Defense Program on the Field at Kauffman Stadium is May 17 Two dates have been scheduled this year for presentation of The Ali Kemp Educational (T.A.K.E.) Seminars on the playing field at Kauffman Stadium. The Kansas City Royals, 98.1 KUDL, and the Johnson County Park and Recreation District (JCPRD) have teamed to present these free programs The first seminar will take place beginning at 10 a.m. on May 17, while the second will start at 9 a.m. on Aug. 16. KUDL’s Darcie Blake will kick off both classes. Both seminars will take place on Saturdays when the Royals are out of town. Participants are being asked to complete a registration form they can find online at http://kansascity.royals.mlb.com/kc/community/take_defense.jsp and bring it with them, but officials said walk-in participants will be accepted at both sessions on the day of the event. Those planning to attend are asked to enter the stadium through Gate 2, park in Lot A, and proceed to Gate B. In case of inclement weather on the day of the event, those planning to attend are asked to call (913) 236-1290 to be advised of cancellation or rescheduling of the event. The T.A.K.E. self-defense program represents a living legacy in honor of Ali Kemp, a 19-year-old Leawood resident who was murdered while working as a lifeguard at a neighborhood pool in Johnson County. The goal of the program is to raise awareness and to give women ages 12 and older the self-protection skills they need to avoid becoming victims of violent crime. JCPRD Corporate and Community Wellness Manager Jill Leiker said the first half-hour of the class, consisting of verbal instruction and talk about safety awareness, will take place with participants in the stands and with Leiker and her staff standing on top of a dugout. For the hands-on training portion, Leiker will move to a stage on second base and participants will move onto the field. Leiker said she does not know what to expect attendance-wise, but hopes to draw at least 1,000 people for each session. The program has been presented to more than 26,000 women and girls since mid-2004. Arrangements for the stadium sessions were made by a friend of Ali Kemp in response to a comment from Leiker. "I told her 'wouldn't it be cool if someday, we could do training at either Arrowhead (stadium) or at Kauffman Stadium?' " Leiker said. "I didn't know that she had a connection at Kauffman Stadium." Not only were Royal's officials interested, they took it a step further and produced a Royals Charities Calendar, called a KCasual Look, which features Royals players in casual poses. This calendar retails for $10 each and will be sold at games. The T.A.K.E. Foundation will receive proceeds from calendar sales. back to top Sailing I Class offered for adults beginning May 27 Learn the basic skills of sailing through a class being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. Sailing I is for ages 18 and older. Participants will learn about types of boats, launching techniques, docking, maintenance, and safety. Search for the keyword "boating" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Sailing I consists of two indoor lecture sessions and four water sessions. The indoor sessions will take place beginning at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 27 and Thursday, May 29, at the John Barkley Visitors Center near the entrance to Shawnee Mission Park, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee. The water sessions will take place at 9 a.m. on four consecutive Saturdays beginning May 31 at Shawnee Mission Park Lake. The cost for six two-hour sessions $61 per person for Johnson County residents or $67 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 13th Annual In Step and In Shape Walk & Health Expo is May 28 Join a celebration of good health and fitness for mature active adults when the Johnson County Park and Recreation District presents its 13th annual In Step and In Shape Walk and Health Expo on May 28. As in 2007, this year's event, including check-in, will take place at the Ritz Charles, 9000 W. 137th, Overland Park, and the walk will be at the nearby Deanna Rose Farmstead. Walk participants will check in at the Ritz Charles between 8 and 9 a.m., while the health screenings and expo will take place starting at 9 a.m. Participants can walk their choice of 1.5 or 3 miles on the scenic trails surrounding the Deanna Rose Farmstead followed by the health screenings and expo at the Ritz Charles. Lunch will be provided by the Ritz Charles and this year's speaker is famed author and Kansas City Star Columnist Charles W. Gusewelle. Nearly 20 businesses and agencies will be part of this year's screenings and expo. Lunch will start at 11 a.m., followed by Gusewelle at noon. Search for the keyword "walk" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. The cost for this five-hour event is $14 per person, which includes lunch and a T-shirt. Preregistration is required. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Pickleball Intramurals offered every Tuesday at Matt Ross Community Center Weekly Pickleball Intramurals are offered every Tuesday morning at the Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty, Overland Park. This program is offered by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. Pickleball is a cross between tennis, badminton, and table tennis played on a court with two players per side who use a wiffleball and paddles. Two courts are available each Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to play Pickleball. There is a suggested donation of $2 per person per day to play. No advance registration is required for this program. For questions about the program, call (913) 642-6410. Search for the keyword "pickleball" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pickup at all Johnson County Library branches. 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. back to top First Overnight Fishing Opportunity of 2008 at Shawnee Mission Park is May 31 The first of four overnight fishing opportunities planned at Shawnee Mission Park Lake during 2008 will take place on May 31. After 11 p.m. on that date, the park will be open strictly for fishing only and park rangers will be on duty throughout the night. All park gates will be open, but access within the park will be limited. The south side of the park will be barricaded east of the 87th Street "Y" and west of the 79th Street "Y" off of Barkley Circle near the main entrance. Search for the keyword "fishing" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Fishing will be allowed from the bank or from watercraft. Park safety officials noted that state law requires a white light be on at all times on boats on the water after sunset. Before fishing, area anglers ages 16 to 64 will need to have a valid Kansas fishing license, a Johnson County Park and Recreation District fishing permit, and all appropriate boat tags, if applicable. District fishing permits are available at: the JCPRD Registration Office, Building C, 6501 Antioch Road, in the John Barkley Visitor Center at Shawnee Mission Park, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee and Lenexa; and at numerous local bait and tackle shops. This year's other overnight fishing opportunities at Shawnee Mission Park are planned for June 21, July 19, and Aug. 23. Water levels in Shawnee Mission Park Lake have returned to normal levels thanks to spring rains after being lowered by as much as nine feet in 2007 for lake-related projects including the installation of a wetlands on the lake's east end and the installation of a new fishing trail along the lake's dam. For more information about the overnight fishing program, call Mike Ray, Superintendent of Park Safety & Interpretation, at (913) 894-3385. back to top Stingrays Summer Swim Team for youth begins June 2 Youth of all ability levels are invited to join a summer league swim team based at the Roeland Park Aquatic Center, 4843 Rosewood, Roeland Park. The program is called the Stingrays Swim Team and is for ages five through 18. Swimmers ranging from novices to the highly-skilled and competitive-minded are invited to join. Entry-level swimmers must be able to swim 25 yards of freestyle. Beginners receive stroke instruction and work on fundamentals and conditioning in a low-pressure environment. All swimmers have the opportunity to compete in swim meets. This is a great chance to get involved in a lifetime sport. The Stingrays meet at 9 a.m. Monday through Friday beginning June 2 at the Roeland Park Aquatic Center, 4843 Rosewood, Roeland Park. The cost for seven weeks of one -hour weekday practices is $70 for Johnson County residents or $77 for nonresidents. A second child from the same family can attend for $60 for Johnson County residents or $66 for nonresidents. Fees include league fees, a swim cap, and a T-shirt. The only additional cost will be for a team swim suit. For more information about the Stingrays Swim Team, call Coach Lindsay Barton at (913) 236-1217. 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 T-Ball and Saturday T-Ball offered for youth Separate T-Ball and Saturday T-Ball programs for ages five through seven are being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District beginning in early June. Search for the keywords "baseball clinic" to find these programs in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. T-Ball provides an opportunity for girls and boys to actively participate in learning the game of baseball under conditions favorable for their age. This seven-week supervised program is designed to teach basic skills in fielding, throwing, and batting, and to further their knowledge of the game of baseball. The T-Ball program allows group instruction with structured league play starting halfway through the season. JCPRD T-Ball is offered at three locations: Thomas S. Stoll Memorial Park, 12500 W. 119th, Overland Park, Fields C & D; Indian Hills Middle School, 6400 Mission Road, Prairie Village, northeast field; and Shawnee Mission Park, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee, east field. Depending on time and location, the program meets twice per week in either a Monday and Wednesday or a Tuesday and Thursday format. Programs begin on June 2 and 3. The cost for 14 50-minute sessions is $50 for Johnson County residents or $55 for nonresidents. A noncompetitive and instructional Saturday Youth T-Ball program is also being offered at Stoll Park, Field C, for ages five through seven with a choice of starting times at 8:30 a.m., 9:45 a.m. or 11 a.m beginning June 7. The cost for seven 60-minute sessions is also $50 for Johnson County residents or $55 for nonresidents. For a flyer with more detailed information including dates, locations, and times, consult the JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog available at all branches of the Johnson County Library. To register, call 831-3359. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top May 23 is Registration Deadline for Jayhawk Baseball Camp Boys entering grades one through five during the 200-09 school year are invited to participate in a Jayhawk Baseball Camp being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. The registration deadline for this year's camp is May 23. This four-day camp has a broad instructional format and will cover all aspects of the game. The youth-oriented program's goal is to give participants a jump on summer leagues and an opportunity to develop basic skills in the game of baseball, including throwing, fielding, hitting, and pitching. Drills, instructional sessions, games, and other exercises will be used. This camp will be staffed by University of Kansas Head Baseball Coach Ritch Price. Participants should bring their own shoes (no steel cleats), a baseball glove, a bat, catching equipment, and practice attire. Search for the keywords "baseball camp" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Jayhawk Baseball camp will take place from 9 a.m. to noon June 2-6 at the Mid-America Sports Complex, 20000 Johnson Drive, Shawnee. The cost for four three-hour sessions is $130 per person for Johnson County residents or $143 for nonresidents. Registrations for this program are accepted by mail, fax (913) 831-6336, online at www.jcprd.com, or in-person at the JCPRD Registration Office, Building C, Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam. For more information or for a flyer, call (913) 422-5599. back to top Summer season of Animal Tales Storytime sessions begins June 4 at Ernie Miller Nature Center A new season of Animals Tales Storytime sessions is beginning soon 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 four sessions scheduled between June 4 and July 23. Animal Tales Storytime is for ages two to six. All children must be accompanied by an adult. This program will feature stories, songs, and surprises. Participants are invited to pack a lunch and stay for a picnic. All programs take place on Wednesdays beginning at 10:30 a.m. Search for the keyword "storytelling" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. The first program of this season will be offered on June 4 when the theme will be "insects." Other summer storytime sessions are scheduled for: June 18 ("raccoons"); July 9 ("turtles"); and July 23 ("snakes"). 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 50 plus walkers will picnic at Shawnee Mission Park, hike along streamway for June 4 outing A picnic in Shawnee Mission Park and a hike in the nearby Mill Creek Streamway Park are planned for June 4 as an adventure walk being offered by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. The program is called Summer Stroll Through Streamway Park. The hike will involve a walk of about three miles on a smooth surface. Participants are asked to bring a potluck dish and burgers, beverages, and utensils will be provided. Participants will enjoy reminiscing about past hikes and sharing ideas for future adventure walks. This walk will depart at 9 a.m. from Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam. The cost for this five-hour outing, including van transportation to the walk site, is $15 per person for Johnson County residents or $16 for nonresidents. Search for the keyword "adventure walks" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. While the JCPRD's 50 Plus programs are primarily for people who are age 50 or older, interested parties who have not yet reached that magic age may still be able to attend. Persons 18 and older who are interested in a 50 Plus class are invited to call the District's Registration Department at (913) 831-3359, and if space is available without forfeiting the place of a person over 50, their registration can be taken. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Ernie Miller Park Amphitheater Programs offered on June 6 & 20 Bring the family to the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Ernie Miller Park Amphitheater on Friday evenings during June for educational and entertaining programs. The programs last about an hour and are designed for all ages. A charge of $2.50 per person helps cover the cost of the programs; children under two are free. June presentations include: June 6 Birds of Prey - By day or by night, out of the sky flies a rodent's nightmare, the birds of prey. Learn why rodents fear these great birds and see close-up examples of these majestic raptors and their special adaptations. June 20 Fun Family Camping Adventures - Learn how to take your family camping. This program will include basics of front-county camping including: where to go, setting up camp, cooking, and cleaning responsibly. Learn and participate in many different activities with your family in an outdoor setting. This program will include activities for all ages, including stories and games. Future amphitheater programs will include Snakes Alive on July 11 and Wildlife Who's Who on July 25. For more information on amphitheater programs, call (913) 764-7759. back to top Free Fishing Weekend at JCPRD Parks is June 7 & 8 The Johnson County Park and Recreation District has established the weekend of Saturday, June 7, and Sunday, June 8 as the annual Free Fishing Weekend in District parks. This will coincide with the state of Kansas' "Free Fishing Days" in State Parks. Fishing, boating, and archery permits will be waived on these days in the District parks where these activities are normally allowed as follows: Park Permits Waived Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam Fishing Kill Creek Park, 11670 Homestead Lane, Olathe Fishing & Boating Heritage Park, 16050 Pflumm Road, Olathe Fishing & Boating Shawnee Mission Park, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee/Lenexa Fishing, Boating & Archery Streamway Parks, Various Access Points Fishing, Boating Thomas S. Stoll Memorial Park, 12500 W. 119th St., Overland Park Fishing Fishing permits have also been waived by the state of Kansas for this weekend, allowing fishing without a state license as well. Regular park hours for these days are 5:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. This is the only time each year license requirements are waived. For more information, call Mike Ray, Superintendent of Park Safety & Interpretation, at (913) 438-7275. back to top Beginning Adult Swim Lessons offered beginning June 4 Adults who want to become safe in or around the water can do so through a class being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. Beginning and intermediate Adult Swim Lessons are for adults 16 and older. Instruction will be given in water safety skills, buoyancy, basic swimming, and breath control. This class is designed for adults with little or no swimming experience. Search for the keywords "swim instruction" to find these programs in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Classes are offered at two times and locations, both starting on June 9. All classes take place Monday through Thursday for two weeks. One program is offered at 9 a.m. at the Roeland Park Aquatic Center, 4843 Rosewood, Roeland Park. Another program is offered at 7 p.m. at the Prairie Village Pool, 7720 Mission Road, Shawnee. The cost for either class for eight 45-minute lessons is $48 for Johnson County residents or $53 for nonresidents. For more detailed information including dates, locations, and times, consult the JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog available at all branches of the Johnson County Library. To register, call (913) 831-3359. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top JCPRD beaches & marinas opening soon Two beaches and three marinas operated by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District are scheduled to open for summer use beginning in late May. 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 May 24 through 26 for Memorial Day weekend and then open for the regular season on May 31. The Heritage Park Marina will also open on May 31. Shawnee Mission Park Marina will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily Monday through Saturday and noon to 8 p.m. Sunday through Aug. 10. Kill Creek Park Marina will be open from noon to 6 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, also through Aug. 10. The Heritage Park Marina will be open from Noon to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday through Aug. 3. All three marinas offer boat rentals, including canoes, pedal boats, two-person sailboats, and fishing boats. Rentals rates are listed in the Summer Activities catalog, available now, and on the District's website at www.jcprd.com. Fishing permits are also available at the marinas. When it opens this year, the Shawnee Mission Park marina will feature recently-installed new docks with a mix of concrete and plastic decking, additional storage space for canoes and sailboats, a larger launching and loading zone, and a dual covered slip for patrol and maintenance boats. The dock retains generally the same configuration as before. Shawnee Mission Park Beach opens May 31 and Kill Creek Park opens May 30 and will be open through Aug. 10. Shawnee Mission Park Beach will be open daily with Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday hours of Noon to 6 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday hours of Noon to 7:30 p.m. Kill Creek Park Beach will be open only on weekends with Friday, Saturday, and Sunday hours of noon to 6 p.m. Daily rates at either facility for children 12 and under adults over 50 are $3 for Johnson County residents and $3.50 for nonresidents. Admission for adults is $5 for Johnson County residents and $5.50 for nonresidents. Season passes or combined season passes are also available. For more information about the beaches and marinas, call (913) 312-8847. back to top AARP 10-week walking program lands in Johnson County this summer - 50 plus encouraged to sign up for free program AARP and the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) announced recently that the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District will host one of twenty pilot 10-Week Walking Programs this summer. The free 10-Week Walking Program is part of a broader AARP goal to help prevent illness and keep people well through positive changes to personal behaviors, like exercise and diet. Studies have shown that regular walking can help significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis, arthritis, and even some cancers. Walking programs can also reduce insurance costs, increase employee productivity, and promote mental well-being. AARP has found that 74 percent of its members who exercise prefer walking over any other type of physical activity. "We are honored and pleased that we have been selected to offer this exciting program to the people of Johnson County," said Sara Thompson, 50 Plus Center Specialist. "We believe it will make a great addition to our ongoing fitness and walking programs." "Walking can take place in any of the numerous venues provided by park and recreation agencies," noted Katie Grove Coffroad, Interim Executive Director of NRPA. "We are proud to be partnering with AARP on this 10 Week Walking program to promote health and livability throughout the lifespan of all Americans." The AARP-NRPA 10-Week Walking Program will help participants find safe places to walk, and provide tools and support to help them take personal responsibility for their health and stick with their exercise plans. Each participant will receive a free step counter and guidebook, and be invited to sign-up for a walking group and weekly educational sessions on fitness and nutrition. People interested in registering for the JCPRD 50 Plus 10-Week Walking Program can call the Olathe 50 Plus Center at (913) 782-1878. More information on the 10-Week Walking Program, as well as useful walking tips and online tools, can be found on AARP’s website, www.aarp.org. Other locations hosting AARP-NRPA 10-Week Walking Programs include: Buckeye, Ariz.; Brentwood, Calif.; San Mateo, Calif.; San Jose, Calif.; Newington, Conn.; Washington, D.C.; Daytona Beach Shores, Fla.; Homewood, Ill.; Bloomington, Ind.; Indianapolis, Ind.; Mt. Sterling, Ky.; Kansas City, Mo.; Lincroft, N.J.; Charlotte, N.C.; Westerville, Ohio; Worthington, Ohio; Ponca City, Okla.; Conway, S.C.; and Woodruff, S.C. AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization that helps people 50+ have independence, choice and control in ways that are beneficial and affordable to them and society as a whole. The organization produces AARP The Magazine, published bimonthly; AARP Bulletin, our monthly newspaper; AARP Segunda Juventud, our bimonthly magazine in Spanish and English; NRTA Live & Learn, a quarterly newsletter for 50+ educators; and its website, AARP.org. AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. The organization has staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The National Recreation and Park Association is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing park, recreation and conservation efforts that enhance quality of life for all people. Through its network of 20,000 recreation and park professionals and citizens, NRPA encourages the promotion of healthy lifestyles, recreation initiatives, and conservation of natural and cultural resources. For more information, visit www.nrpa.org. back to top Learn to Dive Level 1 & 2 classes offered for youth beginning June 9 Looking to participate in a challenging and fun activity this summer. The Johnson County Park and Recreation District is offering two levels of Learn to Dive classes this summer. Offered are Learn to Dive Level 1 and Level 2. Both are for ages five and older and both take place at the Roeland Park Aquatic Center, 4843 Rosewood, Roeland Park. Both include 3-meter training and require that participants have completed Level 3 swimming. Search for the keyword "diving " to find these programs in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Level 1 is an introductory course which will emphasize basic diving fundamentals in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Skills to be presented include front and back takeoffs, as well as forward and back dives. This class will meet at 10:10 a.m. Monday through Thursday beginning June 9. The cost for eight 45-minute lessons is $48 for Johnson County residents or $53 for nonresidents. Level 2 is designed to build upon the beginning skills and introduce divers to new skills including inward dives, front and back somersaults, and basic twisting skills. This class will meet at 11:05 a.m. Monday through Thursday beginning June 9. The cost for eight 45-minute lessons is $49 for Johnson County residents or $52 for nonresidents. For more detailed information including dates, locations, and times, consult the JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog available at all branches of the Johnson County Library. 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 Knights in Shining Armor program offered for youth on June 9 Brave young ones seeking knighthood are called to the round table through a program being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District called Knights in Shining Armor. This program is for ages four through eight. Participants will make shining shields and hats. Following a knighting ceremony, participants will visit castles and search for dragons through storybook pages with storyteller Melva Hargett. Search for the keyword "art" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Knights in Shining Armor is offered on June 9 and will take place beginning at 10:30 a.m. on the east side of Building A, Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch Road, Merriam. All supplies are included. The cost for one 60-minute session is $12 for Johnson County residents or $13 for nonresidents. The JCPRD’s ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District’s website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Girls Volleyball Camp begins June 9 in Shawnee Registrations are now being taken for a Girls Volleyball Camp being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. This program is for girls entering grades three through nine during the 2008-2009 school year and will stress the basic theories used in the game of power volleyball. This will include basic offensive/defensive strategies and skill development. Participants will be divided into groups based on age and ability. Staff for this program consists of area high school volleyball coaches. Search for the keywords "volleyball camp" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Play begins June 9 and will take place at the Okun Fieldhouse at the Mid-America West Sports Complex, 20200 Johnson Drive, Shawnee. A session for grades three through six will begin at 9 a.m., while a session for grades seven through nine will begin at 1 p.m. The cost for four three-hour sessions is $65 per person for Johnson County residents or $72 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 about this program, go to www.jcprd.com/activities/sports.cfm or call (913) 422-5599. To register, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com or call (913) 831-3359. back to top Pirate Treasure Hunt is Theme of Art Camp beginning June 9 & 16 A pirate treasure hunt is the theme of an art camp for youth being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District in early June. The program is called Pirate Treasure Hunt Camp and is for ages seven to ten. Participants will try to follow a pirate map to hidden treasure. Along the way, young buccaneers will learn to read a compass and a map and make pirate-related projects including a flag, a hat, an eye patch, and a treasure chest. Professional storyteller Melva Hargett will also share some pirate yarns. All materials are included. Search for the keyword "art" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Camp meets from 10 to 11 a.m. Monday through Wednesday , June 9-11 in Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam. The cost for three one-hour sessions is $30 per child for Johnson County residents or $33 per person for nonresidents. This program will be offered again on June 16-18. 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 Get Organized with New Cutting Clutter seminar on June 10 Are you overwhelmed by clutter? If so, come meet a professional organizer through a new program being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. This program is called Cutting Clutter and is for ages 18 and older. Participants will receive tips on how where to start, how to sort and categorize possessions, and prepare you to tackle your most intimidating clutter. Students will receive a Personal Organizational Self-Assessment form to help prioritize their possessions, as well as organizational tools. Search for the keywords "special interest" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This program is offered at 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 10, at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. The cost for one 90-minute session is $12 for Johnson County residents or $13 for nonresidents. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top New 50 Plus Disc Golf Lesson and League offered during June Disc Golf is the subject of two new programs begin offered in June by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. In this popular sport, players throw a disc into a basket or target. Like golf, players must travel through the course with the fewest number of throws to win the game. Programs being offered are called Disc Golf Lesson and Disc Golf League. Search for the keywords "disc golf" to find either program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. In Disc Golf Lesson, participants will learn the fundamentals of this sport. This one-session class will take place beginning at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, June 10, at the Prairie Center Park, 555 N. Olathe View Road, Olathe. The cost for one three-hour session is $5 per person for Johnson County residents or $6 per person for nonresidents. The Disc Golf League is for beginning and intermediate players. This program will last 11 weeks, beginning in June and ending in August. Tee-off will start at 6 p.m. every Wednesday beginning June 18 at the new Disc Golf Course at Shawnee Mission Park, 7900 Renner Road. The course begins in the north Walnut Grove area and requires about two miles of walking. The cost for this 11-week league is $20 per person for Johnson County residents or $22 per person for nonresidents. Discs are not included and can be purchased during business hours at the park's John Barkley Visitors Center or elsewhere. No on-site registrations will be accepted. For questions about either disc golf program, call (913) 642-6410. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pickup at all Johnson County Library branches. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. 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. back to top Bubble Makers and Airplane Excitement program In June 11 Paper Airplanes and Soap Bubbles are two favorite outdoor summer activities and the topics of a program for youth being presented by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District Bubble Makers and Airplane Excitement is an opportunity for participants to use a variety of common household items such as coat hangers, plastic six-pack holders, straws, and more, to create bubbles. Participants will also create a variety of paper airplanes. Search for the keyword "art" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This program is for children ages five to eight and will take place under the big sycamore trees at the Tomahawk Recreation Complex, 17501 Midland Drive, Shawnee. This program is offered at 3:30 p.m. on June 11. 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 50 Plus Plans Adventure Walk at Powell Gardens on June 12 Powell Gardens is the destination for an adventure walk being planned by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District on Thursday, June 12. Participants will visit Powell Gardens near Kingsville, Mo., for a guided tour and a n opportunity to eat lunch at Cafe Thyme of their own. Volunteer Donna Burch will present the tour and answer botanical questions. This outing will also give participants a chance to see the Gardens' summer exhibit: Chapungu: Nature, Man & Myth showcasing more than 50 sculptures drawn from the collection of the Chapungu Sculpture Park of Zimbabwe, Africa. This outing is considered an easy walk. Search for the keywords "adventure walks" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This program will leave from Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam, at 9 a.m. The cost for one five-hour outing, including transportation, is $20 per person for Johnson County residents or $22 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 New Intergenerational Geocaching in the Parks program begins in June Using a Global Positioning System (GPS) to locate hidden caches in Johnson County Park and Recreation District parks is the goal of a new series of intergenerational programs being offered beginning in mid-June. This program is called Geocaching in the Parks 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. Three different programs at three different parks on three different dates are planned. Participants can participate in one program or sign up for all three Each program will begin at 9 a.m. on a Friday. The first will take place on June 13 at Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam. Other programs are planned on July 11 at Shawnee Mission Park, 7900 Renner Road, and on Aug. 8 at the Mill Creek Streamway Park. Participants will be notified of exact meeting places prior to the event dates. The cost for one two-hour cache hunt is $8 per person for Johnson County residents or $9 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 Johnson County Library 20th Annual Used Book Sale Money is tight but the prices at this sale are just right! The Johnson County Library will hold the 2008 Annual Sizzlin’ Summer Used Book Sale in cooperation with Friends of the Library at Metcalf South Shopping Center, 9635 Metcalf, Overland Park, KS, in early June. This will provide a great opportunity to stock up on books and audiovisual materials for all ages and interests at bargain prices. Most items are priced at $1.00 and 50 cents each with some items specially marked. Sale dates and hours will be: Wednesday, June 11, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, June 12, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, June 13, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, June 14, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. A “Friends of Library Member Only” Preview Sale will be held on Tuesday, June 10, from 6 to 9 p.m. which requires a current Friends of the Library membership card that may be purchased at the sale or Friends Used book stores located at Antioch and Blue Valley Neighborhood libraries. According to Marsha Bennett, Community Relations Coordinator for Johnson County Library, this is the 20th year for the library’s popular annual summer used book sale and it will be larger and longer than previous sales. “There is a huge selection of materials this year,” Bennett stated. “We have added an extra day and lots more tables this year as there are many more items available. Shoppers will love the magnitude of this year’s sale! We estimate there are over 90,000 items. ” According to Bennett this is a great community recycling event. “Not only are items weeded from the library’s collection offered at the sale, but donations from the community make up about 60 to 70% of the items offered at the sale,” Bennett said. “Books are sorted by category so people can easily find their area of interest or favorite authors. There is something for everyone. And the prices are very reasonable.” Proceeds from the used book sale benefit the Johnson County Library. To join the Friends, visit www.jocolibrary.org/friends, call (913) 261-2319, or pick up membership information at any Johnson County Library location. back to top Children’s author Claudia Chandler At Johnson County Library on June 3 The public is invited to meet children’s author Claudia Chandler at a special Johnson County Library program on Tuesday, June 3 at 7:00 p.m. at the Blue Valley Neighborhood Library, 9000 W. 151st St., Overland Park, KS as the Summer Reading Club kicks off. Chandler is the author of Ralphina the Roly-Poly and her artwork will be featured in the Blue Valley Library gallery for the month of June. After reading and discussing her book, she will be joined by musician Kevin Phillips as he leads the audience in an entertaining rendition of his original Ralphina song! Her book will be available for purchase and autographing. Refreshments will be served. This family program, recommended for ages 4 and up, is free and open to the public. Registration is not necessary. For more information call 913-495-3850. 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 Summer Adventure Walks for 50 Plus start June 18 with Trip to Watkin's Mill Watkins Woolen Mill State Park near Lawson, Mo., will be the first of four destinations to be visited this year as part of Summer Watkins Woolen Mill State Park near Lawson, Mo., will be the first of four destinations to be visited this year as part of Summer Adventure Walks being offered by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. These walks are meant to give participants an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and make new friends while visiting interesting regional scenic trails, nature sanctuaries, and state parks. Participants can choose one or all of the four summer walks. The Watkins Mill walk will take place on Wednesday, June 18 and is expected to involve a moderate level of exertion. Other summer walk dates and destinations are: July 2, Black Hawk Trail at Pomona Lake south of Topeka; July 10, Martha LaFite Thompson Nature Sanctuary near Liberty, Mo.; and July 16, Wallace State Park in Cameron, Mo. All of this summer's walks will involve two to three miles of walking over about 1.5 hours. Adventure Walks are led by Instructor Tiffany Glaser. All walks depart at 9 a.m. from Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam. 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 Red Hat Night at The Theatre in the Park's June 19 performance of "Oklahoma!" An organized evening outing of Red Hat Sisters to a performance of "Oklahoma!" at The Theatre in the Park, 7710 Renner Road, Shawnee, is being planned by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. This Red Hat event at the theater, will take place on Thursday, June 19. In addition to the performance itself, which is a love story of a handsome cowboy and a darling farm girl, this program will include a catered picnic dinner and bottled water. Participants need only bring their blankets and chairs. Search for the keyword "special event" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This event will begin at 7 p.m. The cost for this three-hour event is $20 per person. For more information or to register, call (913) 782-1878. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. 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. back to top New Summer Fun Cookout for all ages planned for June 20 at Shawnee Mission Park Have some summer fun by joining the Olathe 50 Plus program and the Boys & Girls Club for a cookout in the park being planned by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. The program is called Summer Fun in the Park and will take place on June 20 at Shawnee Mission Park's Shelter #4. The park entrance is located at 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee, and the shelter can be found on the north side of the lake near the marina. Participants can eat brats, hot dogs, and watermelon and socialize with participants of all ages. There will also be games, stories and more. Don't miss this opportunity for fellowship and fun. Search for the keyword "cookout" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This two-hour event will begin at 10 a.m. The cost is $5, payable at the entrance. Advanced registrations are not required for this program. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog is available for pickup at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information, call (913) 831-3359. For updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Sailboarding Class offered for ages 16 and older begins June 21 Experience the excitement of surfing, combined with the speed of sailing while learning the Olympic sport of sailboarding through a summer class being offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. A sailboard is similar to a surfboard with a sail attached. The class is called Sailboarding and is for ages 16 and older. Class will take place near the Heritage Park Lake Marina, 16050 Pflumm Road, Olathe. Instruction manuals and sailboards for the class are provided. Basic swimming skills are required. Master sailboard instructor is Park Ranger Frank McClelland. Search for the keyword "boating" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities catalog and online listings. This class takes place on a consecutive Saturday and Sunday beginning June 21. Participants have a choice between sessions beginning at 8 a.m., and a session which starts at 1 p.m. The cost for two four-hour sessions is $53 per person for Johnson County residents or $57 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 Fourth Annual KidFest is June 21 at Antioch Park Now it its fourth year, the KidFest event will be back from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on June 21. This event is being presented by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Children's Service's Department and will take place at Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam. This event was first presented in 2005 as part of the District's year-long 50th anniversary celebration and was so successful the Children's Services Department made it a regular event. Planned for this year's four-hour event is a carnival-like atmosphere featuring a variety of activity booths, including face and hair painting, ring and bean-bag tosses, tile painting, bead jewelry making, a cake walk, crown decorating, and more. These booths will be located near the Dodgetown playground and near Antioch Park's administration buildings and will be manned by staff from Children's Services' 25 afterschool and four preschool programs. Also planned are: moon walks, a Build-It Workshop sponsored by Lowe's Home Improvement Warehouse, a fire truck from the City of Merriam, a concession area, and more. Admission will be $4 for a child's wristband and adults are $2 or free with a canned food donation. Kids under two are free. Advance registration is not required for this event. For more information, contact Children's Services Specialist Rob Knaussman at (913) 236-1250. back to top Fifth Annual Paws in the Park is June 21 at new location - event moves to the Shawnee Mission Park Beach Now in its fifth year, the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Paws in the Park Dog Contest will take place on June 21 at a new location. This year's event will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the regular Shawnee Mission Park Beach, not at the dog beach in the park's Off-Leash Area. Shawnee Mission Park's main entrance is located at 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee, and the beach is located on Beach Road on the northeast side of the lake. "We changed it because it's a more well-known park, it's closer to the highway, and it's easier to get to," said Special Events Coordinator Julie Sano. This fun-filled and family-oriented event gives interested parties an opportunity to bring their dogs and compete in contests with a category for every dog. Last's year's contest drew more than 300 people and more 100 dogs, and organizers expect numbers to increase with the increased visibility of Shawnee Mission Park. New for this year is a one-mile dog walk on the trail within the park and an opportunity to swim with your dog at the beach. Other planned activities include a canine demonstration by a representative of the Overland Park Police Department, vendor booths featuring a variety of dog-related items, representatives of area animal rescue groups, and much more. Booths will be set up on one side of the grassy area near the beach, while a dog agility course will be on the other side. Search for the keywords "dog contest" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. A portion of the proceeds from Paws in the Park will be donated to an area rescue group. The entry cost for this four-hour event is $15 per dog and includes the walk, contest entry, and a T-shirt. In past year, shirts had to be purchased separately for an additional fee. 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 Eleventh Annual Kids' Fishing Rodeo for ages 12 and under is June 21 At Shawnee Mission Park The eleventh Annual Kids Fishing Rodeo at Shawnee Mission Park Lake, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee, will take place from 9 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 21. This event is free to the public and is being presented by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District and Crappie USA Inc. Kids ages 12 and under are invited to bring their mom and dad and participate. Registration will begin at 8 a.m. at Shelter No. 3, near the Shawnee Mission Park Marina. The first 100 kids will receive a gift pack containing coupons and fishing supplies and qualify for a national drawing for a $5,000 scholarship. Since the event began here, two participants in the local event have won scholarships. Fishing will take place from 9 to 11 a.m. Prizes will be presented for the highest total accumulative length of all fish caught and for big fish. Participants should bring their own bait and tackle. Please remember length limits do apply, so please check park regulations. Also, anglers ages 16 to 64 will need the applicable Kansas and JCPRD fishing permits. For more information about this event, please contact Park Ranger Billie Thompson at (913) 438-8075 ext. 1362. back to top