Johnson County, Kansas, Homepage - Feature Stories for 2009

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	OCTOBER - 2009 Register Now for H1N1 Symposium for Business The Johnson County Health Department (JCHD), in collaboration with Johnson County Emergency Management & Homeland Security (JCEMHS), will host an H1N1 Symposium for Johnson County Businesses on Monday, October 12, 2009 from 8:00am -9:00a.m. Registration/Breakfast/Networking, 9:00am–11:00am Program/Questions and Answers, at the Overland Park Marriott, 10800 Metcalf Avenue, Overland Park, Kansas. Topics and speakers include: H1N1: Federal and State Perspective Dr. Jason Eberhart-Phillips, Director, KDHE Division of Health What’s Happening in Johnson County? Liz Ticer, Emergency Coordinator, Johnson County Health Department How Can Local Businesses Prepare for H1N1? Nick Crossley, CEM – Director, Johnson County Emergency Management & Homeland Security There is no cost to attend the event, but pre-registration is required. A continental breakfast will be served. Due to the limited number of spaces available, please sign up soon to guarantee a spot! To register online, go to: http://www.jocoem.org/cp/pbhttx.shtml. back to top Temporary closure of Kill Creek Streamway Park and Off-Leash Area anticipated beginning Oct. 12 The Kill Creek Streamway Park in De Soto and its Off-Leash Area will be closed for about five working days for maintenance beginning Monday, Oct. 12. Johnson County Park & Recreation District officials hope to reopen the park by Saturday, Oct. 17, but this project is weather-dependant and the anticipated timeframe could change in the event of inclement weather. Officials said the closure is necessary to complete seal coating from the 95th Street access point about a mile north to The Meadows subdivision. Because the parking lot will also be closed during this time, this effectively closes the 16-acre Off-Leash Area located at the access point as well as the 1 mile of trail stretching south from the access point. For more information call the District's Park Information Line at (913) 312-8833 or Park Manager Monte Fiegel at (913) 583-9985. back to top Mad Science® Halloween programs offered on Oct. 23 & 24 Spooky science experiments will make Halloween even more exciting for youth who participant in new Mad Science® programs being offered by the Johnson County Park & Recreation District. The program is called Mad Science® Halloween and is offered for two age groups. One class is for ages three to five, while another is for ages six to 12.Both groups will make glow-in-the-dark putty or slime, and other experiments. Both programs will take place at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "science" to find these programs in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. The program for ages six to 12 will take beginning at 11 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 23. The cost for one 60-minute session is $18 per person for Johnson County residents or $20 for nonresidents. For ages three to five, the program will take place beginning at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 24. The cost for one 45-minute session is $15 per person for Johnson County residents or $17 for nonresidents. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Shawnee Mission & Heritage Park Trout Stocking Set for Oct. 28 The public is invited to come watch as rainbow trout are stocked in Shawnee Mission Park and Heritage Park Lakes in late October. Up to 2,100 pounds of rainbow trout will be stocked in the two lakes on Wednesday, Oct. 28. This will include up to 700 pounds of fish to be stocked near the Heritage Park Dam starting at approximately 2:30 p.m. and up to 1,400 pounds of fish to be stocked near the Shawnee Mission Park Lake boat ramp beginning at 3:45 p.m. Following the stockings, the two lakes will be closed to fishing until the parks' opening at 5 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 31. Perform a catalog search for the keywords "fish stocking" to find this program in the Johnson County Park & Recreation District's Activities Catalog and online listings at www.jcprd.com. Before fishing in the lakes, area anglers ages 16 to 64 will need to have a Kansas fishing permit, a Johnson County Park & Recreation District fishing permit and a JCPRD trout fishing permit. District fishing and trout permits are available at: the JCPRD Registration Office, Building C, 6501 Antioch Road, Merriam; the John Barkley Visitors Center at Shawnee Mission Park; and at numerous local bait and tackle shops. Shawnee Mission Park is located at 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee, and Heritage Park is located at 16050 Pflumm, Olathe. Both facilities are owned and operated by the Johnson County Park & Recreation District. For more information, call (913) 831-3359. back to top New Haunted Kansas Program planned at Ernie Miller Park on Oct. 24 As darkness falls, walk through the trails of Ernie Miller Park and listen to the stories of long ago during a new special event being offered at the Johnson County Park & Recreation District. The program is called Haunted Kansas and is for ages eight and older as well as all children accompanied by a parent or guardian. Characters from the past will share legends around the campfire. Expect a shiver down the spine and a mild case of goose bumps for those who dare enter the forest on this autumn evening. Group sessions begin every 20 minutes and the program lasts about an hour. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "Halloween" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Haunted Kansas will take place from 6:30 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 24 at Ernie Miller Park, 909 N. Kansas-7 Highway. The cost is $5 per person, including adults, and is payable on-site. Reservations are required and can be made by calling (913) 764-7759. In case of inclement weather, this program will take place indoors. 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 Itty Biddy & Biddy Basketball programs offered in late October Three instructional basketball programs for young children are being offered in late October by the Johnson County Park & Recreation District. The programs are: Itty Biddy Basketball Clinic for boys and girls age four with a parent, a Biddy Basketball Clinic for girls and boys ages five to eight, and a Biddy Basketball Advanced Clinic for ages seven to nine. All three programs begin Saturday, Oct. 24. These programs are offered at the at the Roeland Park Sports Dome, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. Perform a catalog search for the keywords "basketball clinic" to find these programs in the JCPRD’s Activities Catalog and online listings. Itty Biddy Basketball Clinic is designed to help develop fundamental skills in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Topics to be covered include ball-handling, passing, shooting, and sportsmanship. A parent must participate with their child in this program. This program is offered at 8 a.m. The cost for four 40-minute sessions is $35 for Johnson County residents or $39 for nonresidents. Biddy Basketball Clinic provides participants with instruction in the fundamentals of basketball. Ball-handling techniques, passing, dribbling, shooting, team work, and basic concepts of team strategy are covered with emphasis on sportsmanship. A session for five- to six-year-olds will take place at 9 a.m., while a session for ages seven and eight will take place at 10 a.m. The cost for six 50-minute sessions is $50 for Johnson County residents or $55 for nonresidents. Biddy Basketball Clinic Advanced is a six-week program of practices and games for ages seven through nine. Teams will be formed during the first class. This class is offered at 11 a.m. The cost for six 50-minute sessions is $50 for Johnson County residents or $55 for nonresidents. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top JCPRD Children's Services Department Conducting Halloween-Themed Canned Goods Drive Through Oct. 30 Students enrolled in the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's 25 After School Programs will Trick-or-Treat for canned goods instead of candy again this year. On Halloween they will be going door to door, escorted by staff, into the neighborhoods around their schools to solicit donations for area food pantries. These kids want to do something to stop hunger. Assistance from the general public is also sought as collections boxes will be placed at two park office locations from Oct. 26 through 30. Those sites are: Building A, Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch, Merriam; and the JCPRD Administrative Offices at Shawnee Mission Park, 7904 Renner Road, Shawnee. Among the most-needed food items are: canned soup, vegetables, fruit, and meats, boxed meals, peanut butter and jelly and hot and cold cereal. Afterschool sites in the Shawnee Mission School District will be donating their collections to Feed the Need. Afterschool sites in the Gardner and De Soto school districts will be donating their canned goods to their respective local food pantries, which are both in dire need of contributions. Last year, the children conducted a similar project and were able to collect over 6,499 goods weighing in at 3,752 pounds in a one-hour period. The Children’s Services Department hopes to collect even more this year. With public contributions, these kids can make a big impact on our community! Perform a catalog search for the keywords "benefit event" to find these programs in the JCPRD’s Activities Catalog and online listings.For more information, contact Gardner Childrens Services Specialist Lisa Hughes at (913) 856-2493. back to top Spook-N-Splash Pool Party for all ages planned on Oct. 30 A morning of scary swimming and frightening fun is planned on Oct. 30, when the Johnson County Park & Recreation District presents a Spook-N-Splash Pool Party at the Roeland Park Aquatics Center, 4843 Rosewood, Roeland Park. Adults and kids alike are certain to be entertained by ghostly games and free time to swim in the pool. Participants can even jump off the haunted high dive, if they dare. Lunch will be served and a door prize goes to the most creative costume. 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, Oct. 30. The cost for one two-hour event, including lunch, is $7 for adults and children over 12, $5 for children ages 4 to 12, and free for children 3 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 New Mad Science® of Booville program offered on Oct. 30 Come spend a no-school day participating in a spooktacular adventure during a new Mad Science® program for ages six through 12 begin offered at the Roeland Park Community Center on Friday, Oct. 30. Mad Science® of Booville is being offered by the Johnson County Park & Recreation District in conjunction with Mad Science®, a private science education firm. The program will feature hands-on science activities.Participants will witness arachnid science, discover how science melts magic, listen for the screeching spoons, have fun with flying eyeballs, and much, much more. Participants should bring a sack lunch and drink. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "science" to find these programs in the JCPRD's online listings. The program will take place from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 30, at Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. For the convenience of working parents, children can be dropped off after 8:30 and picked up until 4 p.m. The cost for one six and one-half hour session is $60 per person for Johnson County residents or $66 per person for nonresidents. Preregistration is required and this program is expected to fills quickly. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Final Parent & Child Night Hike is Oct. 30 at Ernie Miller Park A final intergenerational Night Hike of the season is being offered on Oct. 30 at Ernie Miller Park in Olathe. Night Hike allows children ages two to six with a parent or guardian to explore park trails as the sun sets. The program takes place at the Johnson County Park & Recreation District's Ernie Miller Park, which is located at 909 North Kansas 7 Highway, Olathe. Beginning at 7 p.m., participants will listen for nocturnal sounds such as the cricket's chorus and the barred owl's call and then gather around a cheery fire for stories, songs, and a tasty treat. Participants should bring a flashlight. Perform a catalog search for the keywords "night hike" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities catalog and online listings. The cost for one 90-minute session is $6 per person for Johnson County residents or $7 per person for nonresidents. Preregistration is required. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Yoga & Climbing Camp offered for Women on Oct. 31 Women are invited to "unleash their inner daredevil" during a yoga and climbing workshop being offered by the Johnson County Park & Recreation District in late October at the TimberRidge Adventure Center. The program is called Yoga & Climbing Camp for Women and is for ages 18 and older. Under the direction of Park Naturalist Molly Postlewait, participants will learn to use the power of ancient yoga movements to discover their strength as a climber. "Climbing and yoga are similar in that they can both be intimidating, but they are both empowering activities and we will be amazed at what we find we can do," Postlewait said. She added that both activities use graceful motions and require and help build flexibility and strength. The day will start with intensive stretching and body awareness exercises, followed by climbing on elements of TimberRidge's Hawk's Nest Climbing Tower, and concluding with more stretching exercises. From beginning to experienced, climbers will get to choose their own level of challenge. Participants should bring a sack lunch. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "adventure" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This program will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 31. The cost for one six -hour workshop is $45 for Johnson County residents or $50 for nonresidents. Preregistration is required and participants must complete a health and liability form before participating. TimberRidge is located at 12300 South Homestead Lane, Olathe, accessible via an entrance which is separate from and south of the main entrance to Kill Creek Regional Park. 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, call Park Naturalist Molly Postlewait at (913) 764-8580 ext. 26. 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 Mildale Farm Fall Fest set for Oct. 31 A Fall Fest being planned by the Johnson County Park & Recreation District for Oct. 31 will give members of the public an opportunity to explore the Mildale Farm property. The event is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will give interested parties access to the 158-acre site including the 22-acre rental property in southwest Johnson County as well as to about 136 acres which are actually part of the adjacent 578 acres of agricultural property, all of which was purchased by the District in 2005. Visitors will be directed to park in the large parking lot near Mildale Farm's main barn. A number of fall-related activities are being planned for the event, all of which will be free to the public. A large pumpkin patch will be situated in front of the main barn. Children 12 and under can pick out a pumpkin. Cider and hot cocoa will be provided in the barn, as will information on other District programs and activities. A tractor-drawn shuttle will take visitors to a fire circle in the south-central portion of the Mildale site, where they can roast marshmallows and enjoy storytelling by members of the District's Interpretive Staff. Staff from the Ernie Miller Nature Center will also lead nature walks to see some of the site's prairie habitat. Horse-drawn hayrides are also planned. Perform a catalog search for the keywords "family fun" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Catch-and-release fishing in any or all of seven ponds within the 158-acre area will also be offered during Fall Fest. While District fishing permits have been waived for this event, anglers 16 and older will still need to have a Kansas fishing license. Visitors can also explore and picnic on the grounds. Restrooms will be available, but the property's two homes and other outbuildings will not be open during this event. The centerpiece of the Mildale Farm property is the high-quality equestrian-style barn, which features peg construction and a hand-laid brick floor. Though designed with an equestrian motif, the barn has never been used for keeping animals and has been utilized as a rental location for social functions, including weddings, family gatherings, and other social and business events. Inquiries regarding information or reservations for Mildale Farm should be directed to (913) 831-3355. Rules for this event will be posted and will be the same as park rules in place on other District properties. Among them: no alcohol, pets must be on-leash, and vehicles must remain on roadways. Park Police will be on hand to enforce these as well as the catch-and-release fishing provision. Mildale Farm is located at 38250 W. 199th St.. From the north, take Interstate 35 south to Exit 207. Turn left (south) and drive one mile to 199th Street. Turn right and proceed 3.5 miles to the Mildale Farm entrance. From the south, take Interstate 35 North to Exit 202. Turn left on Sunflower and proceed about two miles. Turn right on East Fourth in Edgerton and follow it for about three blocks. Turn right on Highway 56 Highway and make a second right on 199th Street. The farm entrance will be about a quarter-mile ahead on the left. back to top Public Hayride offered on Nov. 1 at Shawnee Mission Park In addition to fall hayrides for organized groups, the Johnson County Park & Recreation District offers an annual opportunity for individuals and family members to enjoy the crisp autumn air from a tractor-drawn hayride without having to worry about reaching minimum numbers or placing a deposit. Advance registration is required. The public hayride will take place at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 1, at Shawnee Mission Park. The cost is $5.50 per person and advance registration is required. Like the group program, this hayride will last approximately 60 minutes, and will be followed by a 60-minute campfire with apple cider and marshmallows. Participants will meet at "Site A" behind The Theatre in the Park, 7710 Renner Road, Shawnee. For anyone interested in group hayrides, spaces are still available through Nov. 22 at both Shawnee Mission Park and at Heritage Park, 16050 Pflumm Road, Olathe. Organized group hayrides also cost $5.50 per person but require a minimum of $65 and a $30 deposit due at the time the reservation is made. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "hayrides" to find these programs in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. To sign up for the public ride or to schedule a group ride, call the JCPRD Reservations Department at (913) 831-3359. back to top Johnson County Artists to be honored During Art Fest 2009 Nov. 1 through 22 at Ernie Miller Nature Center The works of 40 Johnson County artists will be showcased during the fifth-annual Johnson County Art Fest exhibit opening Sunday, Nov. 1. The juried exhibition runs through Nov. 22 at the Ernie Miller Nature Center located at 909 N. Kansas 7 Highway, Olathe. Sponsored by Johnson Ballweg & Tuley, LC, Johnson County Art Fest 2009 was open to all juried artists 21 years of age and older currently residing in Johnson County. In all, more than 200 entries were submitted by 99 artists for this year's show. This is up from 90 artists who submitted artwork in 2008. There is no admission charge to the exhibit which will be open for public viewing during the Nature Center’s regular hours: 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Sunday. The nature center will be closed on Nov. 11 in observance of Veterans Day. Perform a catalog search for the keywords "art exhibit" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This year's exhibit features a creative array of art including paintings, ceramics, photography, mixed media, weaving, and blown and fused glass. Retail prizes for the selected pieces range from $55 to $5,500. All of the pieces are available for purchase. Prizes and purchase awards for the show will total more than $4,000. This includes a Best of Show of $1,000, Second Prize of $750, and a Third Prize of $500. There will also be purchase awards of at least $2,000 for art to be placed on permanent display in Johnson County Park and Recreation District facilities. The juror for the 2009 show is Marcus Cain, curator of the Kansas City Jewish Museum and Epsten Gallery, as well as owner and director of SATELLITE Exhibitions curatorial initiative. He has previously taught painting and drawing at the Kansas City Art Institute and served as editor of Review Magazine. Art Fest is a unique exhibition exclusively showcasing Johnson County artists. Initially presented in celebration of the county’s Sesquicentennial in 2005, Art Fest has continued as an annual tribute to the widely diverse talents of the many artists residing in Johnson County. The Art Fest Organizing Committee consists of A. J. LoScalzo, Alberta McGrath, Nancy Wallerstein, and Randy Knight, . For more information contact Randy Knight at (913) 894-3323. back to top New Youth Yoga Program begins Nov. 2 A new yoga class designed specifically for youth is being offered by the Johnson County Park & Recreation District beginning in early November. The class is called Youth Yoga and is for ages seven through 14. Classes will focus on elements of yoga which develop mental focus, positive thinking, energy levels, self-esteem, balance, contentment, and grace. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "yoga" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This program will meet at 4:30 p.m. Monday beginning Nov. 2 at Punch Boxing + Fitness, 5455 Roberts St., Shawnee. The cost for six 60-minute sessions is $75 per person for Johnson County residents or $83 for nonresidents. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information call (913) 441-1070. 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 Final two Summer Storytime Sessions are Nov. 4 & 18 at Ernie Miller Nature Center Night animals and possums and pumpkins are the subjects of the final two Animal Tales Storytime sessions planned this fall at the Johnson County Park & Recreation District's Ernie Miller Nature Center in Olathe. Young children and their parents are invited to come listen and learn during any of the sessions. Animal Tales Storytime is for ages two to six. All children must be accompanied by an adult. This program features stories, songs, and surprises. Participants are invited to pack a lunch and stay for a picnic. All programs take place on Wednesdays beginning at 10 a.m., with a repeat presentation beginning at 11 a.m. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "storytelling" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings at www.jcprd.com. The Nov. 4 session is about "night animals"; while the Nov. 18 session is about "possums and pumpkins." 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 New An Evening on the Prairie program is Nov. 6 & 7 Come experience "An Evening on the Prairie" at the TimberRidge Adventure Center through a new program being offered on two consecutive nights in early November by the Johnson County Park & Recreation District. An Evening on the Prairie is offered on both Friday, Nov. 6, and Saturday, Nov. 7. This program is for ages 10 and older and is not recommended for younger children because of rough trails and darkness. Participants will join park naturalists to hike by moonlight to listen nocturnal creatures. Weather permitting, participants will also view the stars and watch for meteors in a dark sky beyond much of the city lights. After the hike, hot cider will be provided. Participants should dress for the weather and bring binoculars and flashlights. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "adventure" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. The TimberRidge Adventure Center is located at 12300 South Homestead Lane, Olathe, and is a 200+ acre facility adjacent to Kill Creek Regional Park, which the District also owns and operates. TimberRidge, which was dedicated in late April of 2002, is accessible via an entrance which is separate from and south of the main entrance to Kill Creek Regional Park. With the exception of an annual open house in the spring, the facility is accessible only by reservation or as part of programming. An Evening on the Prairie begins at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 6, and Saturday, Nov. 7. The cost for either two-hour program is $11 per person for Johnson County residents or $12 for nonresidents. Space is limited and preregistration is required. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Bows for the Holidays workshop for adults on Nov. 7 Just in time for the holidays, learn how to make bows during a workshop being offered by the Johnson County Park & Recreation District. The Program is called Bows for the Holidays and is for ages 18 and older. Participants will learn to make bows for all those special occasions, including wreaths, packages , and holiday decorations. Participants should bring two to four rolls of their favorite ribbon, which will be transformed into Bows for the Holidays. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "decorations" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. This workshop will be offered at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park beginning at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7. The cost for one 90-minute session is $15 for Johnson County residents or $17 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, Johnson County Library, plan Veterans Day events on Nov. 10 The Johnson County Park and Recreation District's 50 Plus Department is teaming with the Johnson County Library for Veteran's Day activities on Nov. 10 at the Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty, Overland Park. Participants can join members of the color guard as they raise the flag and honor veterans. Chris Cakes will provide pancakes and sausage. Veterans will eat free, thanks to event sponsors Darcy Carpenter of John Moffitt & Associates Coldwell Banker and Park Meadows Senior Living of Overland Park. For family members and members of the public, there will be a $5 charge for breakfast. A choral presentation by the Overland Stage Chorus will start right after breakfast, followed by Special Guest Speaker Annabeth Surbaugh, Chairman of the Board of Johnson County Commissioners. Search for the keywords "special event" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings at www.jcprd.com. Beginning at 10 a.m., the Johnson County Library will host a Positive Aging Coalition presentation of "A Slice of Home and a Cup of Joe: The Story of Trackside Canteen during WWII" by Peter A. Hansen, editor of Railroad History Magazine. During this hour-long portion of the program, participants will hear about how women of at least 43 communities across the nation organized trackside canteens for the soldiers and sailors being transported on troop trains. With the exception of breakfast for non-veterans, there is no charge for this two and one-half hour program, but reservations are required and can be made by calling (913) 642-6410 by Nov. 3. Interpretive services and other accommodations for those with special needs are available and should be requested at time of registration. back to top Thousands of items bargain priced At Library’s Fall used book sale Thousands of gently used books will be offered for sale at bargain prices at the Fall Used Book Sale, cosponsored by the Johnson County Library and Friends of the Johnson County Library, in the meeting room of the Antioch Library, 8700 Shawnee Mission Pkwy, Merriam, KS, November 5-7, 2009. Sale hours are: Thursday November 5 • 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Friday, November 6 • 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Saturday, November 7 • 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. This popular Fall Book Sale will feature a variety of fiction and nonfiction categories for both adults and youth. Music CDs will also be available. Most items are priced at $1.00 and 50¢. Some materials may be specially priced. All sales are final; checks, MasterCard, Discover and Visa accepted with proper identification. Proceeds from the book sales are used to purchase new library materials, fund library programs for all ages, and train library staff and volunteers. For more information on book sales or donating items, call (913) 261-2319 or visit www.jocolibrary.org/friends. back to top JCPRD Winter Catalog available after Oct. 26 The Johnson County Park & Recreation District's Winter ACTIVITIES catalog will be available the week of Oct. 27. The 60-page quarterly publication lists more than 400 programs offered by the District from December though February and beyond. Winter offerings range from arts and crafts to sports to nature activities, and include leagues, classes, seminars, workshops and trips. Included are programs for toddlers through adults. Programs for ages 50 Plus are listed in a separate 50 Plus catalog, which will also be available after Oct. 26. Pick up a copy of the 50 Plus catalog at District locations or call (913) 236-1246. Registration for classes in the Winter catalogs will begin immediately after the catalogs arrive. Winter program offerings begin on or about Dec. 1. ACTIVITIES is mailed out to approximately 25,000 past participants who have taken part in a District program within the last year. Catalogs will also be available at Johnson County Library Branches, community centers, various businesses, and at District locations. Updated JCPRD program listings and 24-hour online registration are available on the District's website at www.jcprd.com. Look for Winter listings to be online the week of Oct. 26 as well. back to top Native American Celebration for ages 4 & 5 on Nov. 14 at Ernie Miller Nature Center Native Americans are the theme of the last in a series of three programs for young children offered this fall at the Johnson County Park & Recreation District's Ernie Miller Nature Center, 909 North Kansas 7 Highway, Olathe. This program is called Native American Celebration and is for ages four and five. Young participants will have fun while learning about natural and cultural concepts from a park naturalist. Participants will learn about the history of Native Americans, what they brought to the first Thanksgiving, and how they helped the pilgrims survive. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "preschool " to find this program in the District's catalog and online listings. Native American Celebration will take place on Saturday, Nov. 14, beginning at 9:30 a.m. at the nature center. The cost for one 90-minute session is $14 per person for Johnson County residents or $15 for non residents. Because space is limited preregistration is required. The JCPRD's ACTIVITIES catalog, with information and a registration form, is available for pick-up at all Johnson County Library branches. For more information or to register, call (913) 831-3359. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Introduction to Tree Climbing program offered at Shawnee Mission Park on Nov. 14 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 & Recreation District can help. The program is called introduction to Tree Climbing and is for ages eight and older. Participants under 18 years 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, Nov. 14. One program will begin at 10 a.m., while another will start at 12:30 p.m. The cost for one two-hour session 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 New Candy Cane Lane Toy Sale is Nov. 14 at RPCC Gently used and new toys are the focus of a new special event being presented by the Johnson County Park & Recreation District in mid-November. The event is called Candy Cane Lane and will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14, at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park. This new event is a great way to clean up your playroom and recycle toys which are still in good condition, while providing some great deals for shoppers. Invited are sellers of new or used toys, games, electronic games, and books for children. Perform a catalog search for the keywords "candy cane" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. There is no charge for browsers on the day of the sale. Booth spaces are still available. Indoor 8-foot by 8-foot spaces are $25 and a limited supply of six-foot tables can be rented for $5 each. For more information, contact Fine Arts Coordinator Marsha Norman at marsha.narman@jocogov.org or by calling (913) 631-7050 ext. 443. To register and to reserve a table, call (913) 831-3359. back to top Squaw Creek 50 Plus Birdwatching Trip offered on Nov. 20 The Johnson County Park & Recreation District's yearly 50 Plus birdwatching trip to the Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge is a day filled with wildlife viewing and an annual favorite. This year's day-long trip will take place on Friday, Nov. 20. It should be a great year for snow geese. When conditions are right, participants can expect to see thousands of geese and ducks at this resting and feeding sanctuary for waterfowl on their migratory journey south. But even in dryer years, the reserve is a great place to visit and observe other wildlife like deer, turkey, pheasants, and bald eagles. Participants should bring a sack lunch as well as binoculars and a bird book. The trip will depart from the north side of Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch Road, Merriam, at 8 a.m. and return around 4 p.m. The cost for this eight-hour trip is $45 per person and includes van transportation. Preregistration is required and can be accomplished by calling (913) 236-1246. 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. To register online and for updated program listings, visit the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Author Joel Goldman to appear at Johnson County Library The Johnson County Library will host a program with Kansas City author Joel Goldman on Saturday, November 7 at 2:00 p.m. at the Leawood Pioneer Library, 4700 Town Center Drive, Leawood, KS. Goldman, an attorney, is the author of several mysteries including the Jack Davis series. He will discuss the writing process and his newest mystery The Dead Man which is set in Kansas City and Johnson County. From shopping at Hen House to dining in Brookside or hightailing it from the West Bottoms to Olathe, Goldman’s mystery set in our own backyard makes the action even more spine tingling. Books will be available for purchase and signing. Other books by Goldman include: Deadlocked, Shakedown, Cold Truth, Last Witness, Motion to Kill and the Prosecution Rests: New Stories about Courtrooms, Criminals, and the Law. This library program is free and open to the public; no registration required. For more information call (913) 826-4620. 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 Johnson County Park and Recreation District plans Firewood Sale on Nov. 21 at the Theatre in the Park Throughout the year, Johnson County Park & Recreation District park maintenance staff trim branches and remove dead trees from District parks. A single chance to purchase some of the resulting firewood will be offered when a Firewood Sale takes place from noon to 5 p.m, - or until the firewood is gone - on Saturday Nov. 21 in The Theatre in the Park Parking Lot. Firewood will be sold one a first come - first served basis and no delivery will be available. The cost will be $50 per half cord for mixed hardwood. For more information, contact Senior Park Manager Grant Evans at (913) 631-0734. In 2008, the firewood supply was exhausted in less than four hours. back to top Tellabration 2009 and Storytelling Workshop both set for Nov. 21 At Ernie Miller Nature Center Whether you want to hear a good story or you're adult who wants to learn to tell a good story, there's an event to help you celebrate the International Day of Storytelling on Nov. 21 at the Ernie Miller Nature Center. Events include Tellabration 2009 for all ages from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., and a Storytelling Workshop for adults 18 and older from 1 to 3 p.m. Tellabration 2009 will give participants an opportunity to hear nature stories with live animals. The stories will combine the themes of environmental awareness and ancient myths that will delight, entertain, and involve audiences of all ages. Live animals will be on hand as the stories are being told. Advance registrations are not required for this program. The cost is $3 per person, including adults, paid at the site. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "storytelling" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. The Storytelling Workshop is a two-hour program meant to open the world of storytelling possibilities for adults 18 and older. Participants will learn to reach out through the magic of stories and to tap into the amazing power of storytelling to educate, entertain, enlighten, and empower. Parents and teachers can explore the use of stories to preserve family history and to enhance school curriculums. This program will be facilitated by award-winning storyteller and Park Naturalist Molly Postlewait. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "storytelling" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. The cost for one two-hour session is $20 for Johnson County residents or $22 for nonresidents. This includes handouts and a professionally-produced storytelling compact disk participants can use for further study and practice. To register for this program, call (913) 831-3359 . To register online and for updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com. For more information on either program, call (913) 764-8580 Ext. 26. The Ernie Miller Nature Center is located at 909 N. Kansas-7 Highway, Olathe and is owned and operated by the Johnson County Park & Recreation District. To register online and for updated program listings, see the District's website at www.jcprd.com. back to top Squaw Creek Fall Birdwatching Trip offered on Nov. 21 Almost as regular as the bird migrations its participants seek to observe is the offering each November of the Johnson County Park & Recreation District's fall birdwatching trip to the Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge. This year's day-long trip will take place on Saturday, Nov. 21. When wetland conditions are right, participants can expect to see thousands of geese and ducks at this resting and feeding sanctuary for waterfowl on their migratory journey south. But even in dryer years, the reserve is a great place to visit and observe other wildlife like deer, turkey, pheasants, and bald eagles. This year, officials anticipate that a continental population of over six million birds should make this a great year for Snow Geese migration. Perform a catalog search for the keywords "outdoor adventure" to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities Catalog and online listings. Lunch will take place at Camp Rulo, Neb., famous for fried catfish and other entrees. Participants must provide their own meal expenses and should bring binoculars and a bird book. The trip will depart from the north side of Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch Road, Merriam, at 8 a.m. and return around 4 p.m. The cost for this eight-hour trip is $33 per person and includes van transportation. Preregistration is required. For more information call 438-7275 ext. 1391. To register, call 831-3359. Note: This trip is separate from and different from the 50 Plus Squaw Creek trip on Nov. 20. back to top Turkey Day Soccer camp for youth offered on Nov. 27 A fun-packed program of skill-building exercises, competitions, and scrimmages is planned for soccer camp for youth scheduled for the day after Thanksgiving by the Johnson County Park & Recreation District. Challenger Sports Turkey Day Camp is the name of the program which has separate sessions for ages three though five, four through six, and seven through 12. The programs are a perfect opportunity to run off all that Thanksgiving turkey. Perform a catalog search for the keyword "soccer " to find this program in the JCPRD's Activities catalog and online listings. All sessions will take place at All American Indoor Sports, Lenexa, 8875 Rosehill Road, Lenexa. A session for ages three though five will take place beginning at 9 a.m. The cost for one one-hour session is $14 for Johnson County residents or $16 for nonresidents. A session for ages four though six will take place beginning at 10 a.m. The cost for one two-hour session is $22 for Johnson County residents or $25 for nonresidents. Sessions for ages seven though 12 are offered at 9 a.m. and at 1 p.m. The cost for one three -hour session is $35 for Johnson County residents or $39 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 call Max at (913) 599-4884 ext. 241. 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