OCT 2015 • ISSUE FIVE
Chili Challenge Enchanted Forest Sar-Ko Aglow
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New Fire Chief chosen pg. 2
Re cre Ins ati ide on ! p Gu
Public meeting for 95th Street construction pg. 7
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pg. 4
TownTalk August 2015 • Issue Five Mayor Mike Boehm
City Administrator Eric Wade
Council Members Ward 1 Joe Karlin Steve Lemons
Ward 3 Amy Slater Lou Serrone
Ward 2 Diane Linver Tom Nolte
Ward 4 Mandy Stuke Andy Huckaba
Lenexa is an equal housing community City Hall 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday 913.477.7500 • 12350 W. 87th St. Pkwy. Police Department 913.477.7300 (non-emergency) 12500 W. 87th St. Pkwy. Community Center 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday 913.477.7100 • 13420 Oak St. Senior Center 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday 913.477.7105 • 13425 Walnut St. Fire Department 913.888.6380 (non-emergency) 9620 Pflumm Road Municipal Court 913.477.7600 • 12400 W. 87th St. Pkwy. Legler Barn Museum 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays 14907 W. 87th St. Pkwy. 913.477.7100 for appointments Inclement Weather Hotline 913.477.7170 Lenexa TownTalk is published six times a year by the City of Lenexa for its residents. Please direct questions or comments to communications@lenexa.com.
www.lenexa.com/towntalk
Sign up: www.lenexa.com/enews
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Lonny Owens named new Fire Chief Lonny Owens, a 28-year veteran of the Lenexa Fire Department, was unanimously appointed as the new fire chief by the Lenexa City Council in September. “I have confidence that Lonny will do an exceptional job leading the Lenexa Fire Department,” said City Administrator Eric Wade. “He is a dedicated public servant and cares deeply about the citizens of Lenexa. He is well respected by the Fire Department staff, other city Fire Chief Lonny Owens staff and the City Council. Lonny will lead the effort to maintain the department’s high standards and continue developing the next generation of leaders.” Owens began his career in public safety in 1987, and during his time with the Lenexa Fire Department served as fire battalion chief, division fire chief of administration, and as deputy fire chief since 2012. He was named the interim Fire Chief in June 2015 upon the retirement of former Fire Chief Dan Rhodus. “I’m humbled and honored to accept this appointment to serve and lead one of the best departments in the country,” said Owens. “I look forward to working side by side with other dedicated men and women in the Lenexa Fire Department in the delivery of professional emergency services. I’m eager to continue to build on our strong relationships with other city and community partners.” Owens graduated with an associate’s degree in fire science from Johnson County Community College and received his Bachelor of Arts degree in business and human resources from Ottawa University. He is a graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program and a member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, the Kansas State Fire Chiefs Association and the Heart of America Fire Chiefs Council. He served as the accreditation task force chair for the Heart of America Fire Chiefs Council for the past nine years and as an international peer assessor for the Commission on Fire Accreditation. He was awarded Chief Fire Officer designation by the Center for Public Safety Excellence. Watch a video about Owens at Lenexa.com/TownTalk.
You will see these symbols throughout TownTalk. Scan them with your smartphone QR reader to add an event to your calendar. These icons designate events and programs that have associated content on the I Like Lenexa App. Lenexa.com/ILikeLenexa
Progress continues on Civic Center Project construction In just under two years, two brand new public buildings will be open and ready for Lenexa residents to enjoy. We’ll use this section of TownTalk until then to keep you updated on construction progress of the Lenexa Civic Center Project. This summer, contractor JE Dunn began construction work on the site, located at the southwest corner of 87th Street Parkway and Penrose Lane in Lenexa City Center. JE Dunn has started grading and installing underground utilities. In addition to the stormwater work already happening, you can now see a rough building layout of the recreation center component at the southeast corner of 87th and Winchester. Over the next few months, you will begin to see the scale of each of the buildings as the foundations become visible. We would like to remind drivers to proceed carefully through City Center. With the Civic Center Project and current and future construction, there will be increasingly more foot, bicycle and vehicle traffic than in the past. The speed limit in this area is 30 mph, and winding turns can make it difficult to quickly see motorists and pedestrians that you may not expect. Follow the city on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to receive updates and photos of progress as it happens. For more information about the Civic Center Project, visit Lenexa.com/CivicCenter.
A view of the Civic Center Project construction site, looking north. The recreation center building will be on the left, and City Hall will be on the right.
CIVIC CENTER QUESTION CORNER Q: How much will Recreation Center memberships be? Membership prices will be established in mid to late 2016. There will be a variety of membership and admission types, and costs will be comparable with other community centers in the region. Q: What is the Public Market? The Lenexa Public Market will be a year-round, carefully crafted and diverse medley of owneroperated shops, stalls and “day tables.” It is one way the city is fulfilling Vision 2020’s strategic goal of creating a place for residents to gather. It will showcase the community’s unique character through food, drink and locally made goods. Got a question? Email kwaggener@lenexa.com, and we’ll find the answer and include it in the next issue of TownTalk.
DISPOSE OF YOUR BULKY ITEMS AND RECYCLE HOME FURNISHINGS AT FALL DUMPSTER DAYS Lenexa residents can dispose of bulky items not normally collected by your trash hauler at the Fall Dumpster Days event on Oct. 10–11. Bring your items from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. to the Municipal Services Center, 7700 Cottonwood St. Fees are collected depending on load size, with additional fees for
TVs/monitors, tires and appliances containing Freon. A list of fees and accepted items is available at Lenexa.com/TownTalk. This year, we are also partnering with the Habitat for Humanity ReStore to recycle new and gently used household furnishings.
TOWNTALK • 3
GET AN EARLY START ON THE 2016 POOL SEASON
Mark your calendar: Fall Fun!
2016 summer pool passes make great gifts — at a discount! Pool passes will be available in November for the 2016 aquatic season. For acting early, you can reap the early bird reward of 10 percent off your pool pass if purchased by March 31, 2016. Passes must be purchased in person at the Community Center, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
LENEXA CHILI CHALLENGE
Resident passes are $110 for a family, $60 for an individual and $28 for seniors. Nonresident passes are $175 for a family, $95 for an individual and $35 for seniors.
OCT 16, 6 – 10 P.M.; OCT.17, 10 A.M. – 3 P.M., OLD TOWN
Apply early for summer pool employment Looking for a summer job? Lenexa Parks and Recreation will begin accepting applications in November for the 2016 summer pool season. Positions include managers, lifeguards, cashiers, swim and dive team coaches, swim and dive lesson instructors, and aqua aerobics instructors. Positions fill quickly, so apply early at Lenexa.com/Jobs.
Photo by Bill Harrison
Those interested in lifeguard positions must have, or be able to acquire, a current lifeguard certification. Lenexa will offer training classes starting in March 2016. Register for the classes online beginning in November at Lenexa.com/GetActive. For more information, contact Lauren Ozburn, aquatics supervisor, at lozburn@lenexa.com.
Photo by Leonard Rosen
Satisfy your belly by tasting hundreds of chili, hot wing and salsa samples from teams competing for the grand prize. Bean bag toss tourney and fireworks on Friday night; Kids Kornbread baking contest on Saturday. Free admission both days. Most samples will be available Saturday, while supplies last. Visit Lenexa.com/Chili.
ENCHANTED FOREST OCT. 22, 6:30 – 8:30 P.M., SAR-KO-PAR TRAILS PARK Don your best costume and enjoy the entertainment, which includes puppets, magicians, singers, characters, inflatables, a hayride and a pumpkin painting station. New this year: all activities are free. More information and entertainment listings at Lenexa.com/Enchanted.
SAR-KO AGLOW DEC. 4, 2015, 6 P.M., SAR-KO-PAR TRAILS PARK
Photo by Bill Harrison
Come see beautiful Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park aglow in holiday lights at this annual lighting tradition. Watch the mayor flip the switch, sit on Santa’s lap, stroll around Rose’s Pond, and listen to carolers singing winter-themed songs. Don’t forget to stop by Legler Barn while you’re there! Free admission. Lenexa.com/SarKoAglow.
Don’t forget to check in at each of these events with your I Like Lenexa App to earn points and prizes!
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Enhancements to Senior Taxi coming soon Beginning on Nov. 2, the City of Lenexa will be partnering with 10/10 Taxi to provide taxi services to seniors. This partnership will expand operation hours to allow for service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year (including holidays). Additionally, riders will have access to handicappedaccessible vehicles, an electronic payment system to purchase rides, and transportation to certain locations for medical appointments outside of Lenexa city limits.
for an open house on Oct. 21at 1:30 p.m., at the Lenexa Senior Center. The Lenexa Senior Taxi service is available to seniors age 65 and older, and residents who are disabled and unable to drive. The cost to the rider is $5/ride, plus a one-time enrollment fee of $2.
POLICE MAJOR NAMED NATIONAL WOMAN LAW ENFORCEMENT EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR
To learn more about the Lenexa Senior Taxi program and meet the 10/10 Taxi drivers please join us
CONGRATULATIONS TO LENEXA ARTISTS SHOW WINNERS Congratulations to the winners of the 2015 Lenexa Artists’ Show: • Best of Show: Richard Gilson, Nature’s Palette (wood) • First Place 2-D: Bev Amundson, Plein Air Poppies & Water Plants (pastel) • Second Place 2-D: Hector Garcia, Piazza San Marco (watercolor) • Third Place 2-D: Caroline Goode, Façade (painting) • First Place 3-D: Patricia Young, Iris Inspiration (ceramic) • First Place Photography: Cathy Moffett, Midnight’s Screened Tears • Second Place Photography: Wayne Hickox, Lost but Not Forgotten
BEST OF SHOW
• Honorable Mentions: Diane Robbins, Worship (acrylic); John Webb, Orange Flower Marble (borosilicate glass)
Lenexa Police Department (LPD) Major Dawn Layman was named The 2015 Woman Law Enforcement Executive of the Year by the National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives. Layman began law enforcement career in Pennsylvania in 1989, and moved to the LPD in 1993. Currently, she is the division commander for the Staff Services division of the LPD. In her time with the Lenexa, Major Layman has been instrumental in several initiatives, including a mentoring program for new and current employees, bodyworn video cameras, license plate recognition, and a public-private security camera partnership. Layman earned her Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Kansas; her Bachelor of Science in criminal justice from West Chester University; and she is a graduate of the 59th session of the Police Executive Research Forum and 251st session of the FBI National Academy.
TOWNTALK • 5
QUICKTIPS: Rental licensing and inspection program Did you know that approximately 35 percent of Lenexa residents are renters? Rental housing is an important part of any city’s housing stock because it helps meet the diverse needs of the community. Lenexa aims to protect the character of its neighborhoods, preserve property values and promote the quality of life that residents expect. The city has had a Residential Rental Licensing Program in place since 2008 to help ensure that rental properties meet key health and safety standards. This program enables the city to find property owners in case of emergencies or code violations, and makes sure the owners understand their property maintenance obligations under city ordinance.
Owners of residential rental properties must obtain a rental license annually for each property (they expire on Dec. 31). Lenexa’s Community Standards staff conducts exterior inspections of each property every other year — or more often if a complaint is lodged. The city also will conduct an interior inspection at a tenant’s request, but only after they have submitted a written maintenance request to the property owner or manager. Have questions about tenant or landlord rights and responsibilities? Contact Housing and Credit Counseling, Inc., at www.hcci-ks.org or 800.383.0217. Need to report a concern about a specific rental property? Submit it online at Lenexa.com/311 or call the city at 913.477.7500.
REMINDER: Please pick up after your pets (even in your backyard) to keep neighborhoods clean and beautiful!
CELEBRATING NATIONAL COMMUNITY PLANNING MONTH IN OCTOBER October is Community Planning Month, highlighting the impact city planners have on the quality of life of our residents, employees, and visitors. Lenexa has an exceptional quality of life, with excellent emergency services, city parks, and well-maintained infrastructure, which are all impacted by good planning. City planners work with engineers, architects and developers to shape Lenexa’s future by linking land use, transportation, economics, culture, recreation, emergency services, infrastructure, and the environment to provide a comprehensive picture for the future of Lenexa. Planners enforce rules that regulate where buildings can be built, how structures can be used, adequate parking and landscaping needs. The theme for this year’s Community Planning Month is “Healthy Communities, Healthy People.” Being a healthy community is more than having great parks and trails. Healthy
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communities are those that ensure adjacent land uses are appropriate or properly buffered from one another, are sensitive to the environment, provide adequate infrastructure, and are fiscally responsible. Starting Oct. 7, use the I Like Lenexa app to learn more about community planning in Lenexa and participate in a citywide scavenger hunt. To see some of Lenexa’s community planning resources, go online to Lenexa.com/TownTalk.
I Like Lenexa App: Not just for kids
#JOCOGATEWAY UPDATE Several areas of the Johnson County Gateway Project were completed over the summer: College Boulevard, K-10 and Ridgeview Road, the flyover ramp bridge from EB K-10 to NB I-435, and K-10 and Renner Boulevard. Once it becomes too cold to lay asphalt or concrete, traffic will shift into a winter configuration to prepare for additional work in 2016.
It has the Playground Passport, and family-themed challenges, but the I Like Lenexa app isn’t just for kids. In fact, many young adults, like Jessica Rose and Sara Trupiano, are finding the competition aspect of the app a huge draw. Jessica and Sara are Lenexa residents who attend college at Truman State University and the University of Kansas. They say the app lets them compete with their friends to top the leaderboard while getting to know their hometown in the process. Jessica heard about the app when she was working as a swim coach for the Lenexa Lazers. Sara found it helpful to keep the kids she nannied for busy during the summer. “We checked in at parks and pools, and did the Playground Passport.” And for most of the summer before returning to college, the two battled to beat each other on the leaderboard through checking in to parks and completing achievements. For them, the bragging rights were enough to keep motivated, but app users are also rewarded with tangible items for earning points. At each point level, users can claim an increasingly larger prize from the Lenexa Community Center. Want to get in on the action? The I Like Lenexa app is available on the iTunes app store and Google Play. Lenexa.com/ILikeLenexa
By late November, several of the eastbound I-435 collector-distributor roads will open, which will reduce weaving and improve traffic flow. Eastbound ramps for Lackman Road and the Pflumm Road improvements will also be complete. NB I-35 from I-435 to 95th Street In September, traffic switched to the new northbound I-35 lanes and the new half of the Pflumm Road bridge. The inside lane work has begun, in order to complete widening efforts by November. This work is linked to the Pflumm Road bridge work happening in mid- to late November. 95th Street and I-35 Utility relocations in the area will be complete in mid-October; then, piers and supports can be dug and poured for road widening work. Traffic will not be impacted on 95th Street from November 2015 to January 2016. More information on the specific construction work to occur at the interchange will be available at the Nov. 5 Public Open House. I-35 and I-435 new flyover ramps
PUBLIC MEETING FOR 95TH STREET PROJECT OVER I-35 The Kansas Department of Transportation and Gateway Interchange Constructors will host a public meeting in November for those interested in learning about planned construction on 95th Street over I-35 planned for 2016.
Deck panels will be installed this fall, and concrete will be poured in Spring 2016 in order to complete the roadway/ramps next summer.
This construction is part of the Johnson County Gateway Project and will reconfigure the 95th Street interchange into a diverging diamond, with road improvements on 95th Street from Noland Road to Monrovia Street. The meeting will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Nov. 5 at Thompson Barn, 11184 Lackman Road. This meeting will have a come-and-go format, and there will not be a formal presentation.
Construction on I-35 looking north
TOWNTALK • 7
October brings shorter days, crisper air and the sound of crunching leaves. Falling leaves can benefit your lawn as they are a natural way to provide it with nutrients. There are many “urban myths” about what can and can’t be done with leaf litter. Let us dispel a few of those myths. Urban Myth #1: It’s OK to dump leaves and grass clippings into streams. Not true. The natural system is equipped to break down and process the leaf litter that occurs naturally, but dumping extra leaves and grass clippings in a stream overwhelms the system. Too much organic waste adds excess nutrients into our streams and lakes, causing algae blooms. Reduced oxygen levels in the water can lead to fish kills. Urban Myth #2: It is OK to dump my leaves in the storm drain. Not true — it is illegal to dump anything, other than clean water, into the storm drain. It is bad for water quality, can cause clogging in catch basins, and can result in flooding on your street. All this leads to increased maintenance costs for Lenexa. Urban Myth #3: I have too many mature trees to mulch all those leaves! Not true — research from the Michigan State University Hancock Turfgrass Research Center has shown that you can mulch up to 6 inches of leaves into your lawn. It is best to stay ahead of the leaves and not try to mulch 6 inches at once — mulch frequently throughout the fall season. Sharpen your mower blade
CITIZEN SURVEYS WILL ARRIVE SOON
YARD WASTE URBAN MYTHS before the fall season to ensure effective mulching. Using leaves as a natural fertilizer reduces the amount of purchased fertilizer you will need — a cost savings to you. Mulch mowing isn’t for you? Lenexa’s licensed trash haulers will take yard waste for composting. During October and November, residential customers may place up to 10 bags curbside in a brown yard waste bags for them to haul away. If you wish to haul it to a facility yourself, visit Lenexa.com/TownTalk for a place near you. Urban Myth #4: It’s fine to blow/rake my leaves into the street—the city will pick them up. Again, not true! Lenexa does not provide street sweeping services that handle leaf collection. Street sweepers who see leaves piled in the street, will avoid the area as trying to sweep that many leaves overwhelms the equipment. It is against code to dispose of yard waste by intentionally blowing or raking leaves into the curb and gutter. Whether residents manage yard waste on their own property by mulching, or composting or by sending them to a composting facility, they will be recycling the nutrients to the soil and keeping valuable material out of the landfill. Being proactive keeps our streamways clean and healthy.
STAY INFORMED WITH E-NEWSLETTERS
ENTER ART OF LENEXA CONTEST & WIN $100
Keep an eye on your mailbox for the 2015 Lenexa Citizen survey, which will be mailed to a random sampling of Lenexa residences in late October.
Want to keep up with everything going on in Lenexa? The City of Lenexa publishes a variety of digital newsletters with information about timely topics for residents.
If you like creating art, we encourage you to enter the “Art of Lenexa” contest. Visit a Lenexa park and create a work of art for your chance at a great prize.
This survey helps us gauge how we’re doing and where we need to improve, so your feedback is crucial to ensuring we are the best place to live, work and play.
We offer five e-newsletters: My Lenexa News, Parks & Recreation E-News, Road Construction News, Governing Body Minutes & Agendas, and Police E-Watch.
If you are selected for a survey, please promptly fill it out and return it to the address specified. Residents who do not return their surveys may receive a follow-up phone call.
To sign up for an e-newsletter, simply go online to Lenexa.com/ENews and enter your email address. We promise not to spam you or use your email address for any other purpose.
A Lenexa Girl Scout is working with the Lenexa Arts Council and Parks & Recreation on her Gold Award Project to organize the new art contest as a way to encourage people to get outdoors and enjoy Lenexa parks. 2-D, 3-D, videography and creative writing will be accepted. Deadline is Nov. 30, and contest entry is free. For details, go to Lenexa.com/TownTalk.
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RECREATION PROGRAM GUIDE • 9
New class registration system launched Lenexa Parks & Recreation debuted a new online class and program registration system on Sept. 9. To register for classes online, you will need to create a new account, even if you had an account in the old system. Call 913.477.7100 with questions. 4
To create an account: • Go to Lenexa.com/GetActive. • Select “Create an Account.” • Create a household username and password. • Enter your household information and select “Save.” 5
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ADA, REGISTRATION & CANCELLATION POLICIES All participants need to sign a release from liability form before registering and participating in any Lenexa Parks and Recreation program. Children need to have the form signed by a parent or legal guardian prior to attending a class. All program cancellations will be determined 48 hours (two business days) before the class is scheduled to begin. In order to prevent cancellations, all registrations are required before the 48-hour deadline. You will be notified if a program is cancelled or changed. Upon request, a confirmation receipt can be mailed for any program. If you need to cancel, call at least five business days before the program begins.
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FEATURES OF THE NEW SYSTEM 1. Search: Allows you to search for a class by age range, location, and type of program. 2. Home: Takes you to the home page of the class registration system. 3. Lenexa logo: Takes you to the City of Lenexa website. 4. Contact Us: Online form available for you to ask questions.
5. Event Calendar: Listing of events and programs by date. 6. Wishlist: Allows you to save classes and programs for later. 7. Household calendar: See a listing of all the programs you have signed up for in your household. 8. Image buttons: Click these for a quick link to age-appropriate programs.
Refunds will only be made if cancellation does not affect the minimum number required. There will be a $5 processing fee. Refunds generally take three to six weeks. Some senior trips and programs require advance notice and have their own cancellation policies. Refunds are not granted after the activity starts. The City of Lenexa is committed to making reasonable accommodations for disabled persons, as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Requests for accommodations must be made at least 10 business days prior to the program or activity.
COURSE LISTING KEY Each course will be listed with an appropriate age range, day of week, dates, times, cost and location. Abbreviations used are as follows: Early Bird Discount: Available when you see this symbol. First price listed is Early Bird price.
Days
Locations
M = Monday T = Tuesday W = Wednesday TH= Thursday F = Friday S = Saturday SU = Sunday
AA = Ad Astra Park/Pool BHP = Black Hoof Park CC = Community Center CCP = Craig Crossing Park CH = City Hall FRC = Flat Rock Creek IT = Indian Trails Pool MCF = Mill Creek Fields
LB = Legler Barn MTP = Matt Taylor Park NG = Natl. Guard Armory PSC = Parks Serv. Center SC = Senior Center SKP = Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park TB = Thompson Barn Full addresses available at Lenexa.com
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Youth Entertainment
ART - VISUAL & PERFORMING
ART FOR ME (AGES 4–12)
Oct. 1–15: The Art of Portraits. Learn the history of portraiture through examples from ancient Greece to classicism and modern art. Create your own portraits using paint and mixed media including sculpture. November 5–19: Still Life in Focus. Take a good look at Medieval Botanical painting and study the symbolism. Learn about color and composition from artists like Paul Cezanne and Georgia O’Keefe. Then use various art mediums to create still life pictures and collages. December 3–17: Printmaking. Learn various printmaking techniques, including block printing, calligraphy and Gelli plates. Study examples from printmakers like Albrecht Durer. Create cards, wrapping paper and holiday gifts.
SHINING STARS DANCE (AGES 3+) Introduce your child to a variety of dance styles. Shining Stars Dance lessons will help build selfconfidence and coordination of mind and body, instill respect for self and others, and much more. No classes on Oct. 17 or week of Nov. 23. Holiday performance is scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 6.
Try it for $10 – Try first class in any session for $10 and if your child likes it, pay $20 for remaining classes.
M
10/26–12/6
Tot Tumbling (3–5) 4:30 p.m.
$48
CC
M
10/26–12/6
Combo Class (6–10) 5:30 p.m.
$48
CC
M
10/26–12/6
Inter. Ballet (7+) 6:30 p.m.
$48
CC
M
10/26–12/6
Nutcracker Choreo. (8+) 7:30 p.m.
$48
CC
T
10/27–12/6
Inter. Combo (8+) 7:30 – 9 p.m.
$48
CC
W
10/28–12/6
Combo Class (3–5) 9:30 a.m.
$48
CC
W
10/28–12/6
Combo Class (3–5) 4:30 p.m.
$48
CC
W
10/28–12/6
Combo Class (6–10) 5:30 p.m.
$48
CC
TH
Dates above
Ages 4 – 6 9:45 – 10:45 a.m.
$30/session
CC
TH
Dates above
Ages 5 – 12 4 – 5 or 6 – 7 p.m.
$30/session
CC
NATURE/OUTDOORS
GEOCACHING CLUB (AGES 7–15)
W
10/28–12/6
Tumbling (6+) 6:30 p.m.
$48
CC
S
10/31–12/6
Combo Class (3–5) 9 a.m.
$48
CC
S
10/31–12/6
Combo Class (6–10) 10 a.m.
$48
CC
S
10/31–12/6
Tap/Jazz (10+) 11 a.m.
$48
CC
Take technology to the parks to find hidden geocaches. Class will meet in the park and will include finding up to three geocaches. During some classes students will have the opportunity to hide a geocache in a park. Bring a water bottle and small used toy to trade. GPS is provided. M
10/12
6 – 7:30 p.m.
$10
SKP
M
11/9
6 – 7:30 p.m.
$10
CCP
F
12/18
12:30 – 4:30 p.m.
$10
CC
RECREATION PROGRAM GUIDE • 11
Youth Entertainment
SPORTS/FITNESS
Open Gym Burn energy and have fun with friends. Full calendar at Lenexa.com/GymCalendar. T/W
Ongoing
8th grade & under 3:30–5:30 p.m.
Free
CC
Th
Ongoing
9th grade & older 3:30–5:30 p.m.
Free
CC
HAPPY FEET SOCCER (AGES 2–5) YOUNG EXPLORERS (AGES 3–6)
Learn about nature with songs, games, stories, hands-on activities and art projects. Each class finds out what’s in the “mystery bag.” Try first class in any session for $10, and if your child likes it, pay $20 for remaining classes. T
Ocean Commotion: 10/13–10/27
9–11 a.m.
$30
CC
T
Fall Harvest: 11/3–11/17
9–11 a.m.
$30
CC
T
North Pole, South Pole: 12/18–12/22
9–11 a.m.
$30
CC
FAMILY FUN
Youth fitness soccer development program taught through stories, songs and games. Entertain youth while developing social and gross motor skills, along with creative soccer techniques. Monthly sessions (four classes per month). M
10/12–11/2; 11/9–11/30
11:15–11:45 a.m.
$30
CC
START SMART BASKETBALL (AGES 3–6)
An introductory six-week program that teaches the basic motor skills necessary to play organized basketball. Parents work together with their child in a supportive environment as they learn basic skills in dribbling, ball handling, passing, catching, shooting and running. Age-appropriate equipment is provided during class. No class 11/24. T
11/3–12/15
5:30–6:30 p.m.
$30
CC
GYM FOR ME (AGES 5 AND UNDER)
Children can run, ride and play while making friends at this popular activity! A Tweety bounce house, riding toys and more are provided. Adult supervision required. M/W
ADOPT A GRANDPARENT
You will exchange contact information with seniors who live in Garden Villas assisted living facility so you can communicate and develop a relationship with your “adopted grandparent.” We will also schedule activities for you and your assigned senior at Garden Villas that will include lunch. Email abullard@lenexa.com to sign up. T/TH 11/17 & 12/29
11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Free
Garden Villas
Ongoing
9–11 a.m.
$1/child; $10 punch card
CC
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Adult and Active
Youth Entertainment
ART - VISUAL & PERFORMING
WINTER WONDER WEEKS If your child gets cabin fever during winter break, check out our Winter Wonder Weeks! Friday, Dec. 18 • 9:30–11:30 a.m.: Candy cane hunt with Mr. Stinky Feet, ages 6 and under, free. • 12:30–4:30 p.m.: Geocaching, ages 8–13, $15. • 5–9 p.m.: Laser tag trip, ages 7+, $30. Monday, Dec. 21 • 9–11 a.m.: Gym for Me, ages 6 and under, $1/child Tuesday, Dec. 22 • 9–11 a.m.: Pickleball, ages 8+, $1 • 1–3 p.m.: Cupcake Wars, ages 8–13, $25/team of two. • 3:15–5 p.m.: Snow-scapes painting, ages 8–13, $12. Wednesday, Dec. 23 • 9–11 a.m.: Gym for Me, ages 6 and under, $1/child Thursday, Dec. 24 • 9:30 a.m.: Story Time, ages 8 and under, free. • 10–11:30 a.m.: Cookies and Card Making, all ages, $5. Monday, Dec. 28 • 9–11 a.m.: Gym for Me, ages 6 and under, $1/child. Tuesday, Dec. 29 • 9–11 a.m., Pickleball, ages 8+, $1
INTRO TO ZENTANGLING
The Zentangle Method is an easy-to-learn, relaxing and fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. Discover a sense of meditative focus and relaxation with simple strokes of a pen. This two-hour workshop taught by a certified instructor is a basic introduction to the Zentangle Method. Class will cover the history, the applications, and the steps of creating an original Zentangle tile. This class invites all levels and requires no artistic experience. Zentangling kit is included. W
Open gym is held daily from noon to 5 p.m., ages 4+, $1.
7–9 p.m.
$20/class
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MORE ZENTANGLES - BEYOND THE BASICS
Explore more Zentangle techniques and tangles in addition to different medium and project ideas. Learn more tangles and explore the possibilities. Bring zentangling kit from intro class. Other materials and projects will be introduced for gifts to share. W
Wednesday, Dec. 30 • 9–11 a.m.: Gym for Me, ages 6 and under, $1/child. Thursday, Dec. 31 • 9:30 a.m.–1 p.m.: Great Plains SPCA service trip, ages 7–15, free.
11/4 or 12/2
10/14, 10/28, 11/18, 12/9 or 12/16
7–8 p.m.
$10/class
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NATURE/OUTDOORS COFFEE, WALK AND TALK
Walk approximately 2 miles at a leisurely pace and enjoy a cup of coffee at a local coffee shop. • October: Gary Haller Trail (Prairie Star Pkwy. access) • November: Indian Creek (103rd & Metcalf) • December: Craig Crossing Park
For more information and register for any of these options, go to Lenexa.com/GetActive. T
Ongoing
9 a.m.
Free, plus cost of coffee
Varies
RECREATION PROGRAM GUIDE • 13
Adult and Active
SPECIAL ACTIVITIES
MORNING WALKERS
Kick off your day and get fit with a morning walk in the open gym at the Lenexa Community Center. T/TH/F
Ongoing
8–9 a.m.
Free
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NOONTIME BASKETBALL Enjoy your lunch hour with a quick game of basketball! TH
WINE 101 — LEARN TO BE A WINE SNOB
10/14
7–9 p.m.
$25
Noon–1:30 p.m.
$1 resident/ $2 non-resident
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CO-ED VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE (18+)
Learn the basics about wine including history, the five “S’s” of wine tasting and what to look for when ordering wines while dining out. Samples of white, red, dessert and sparkling wines will be provided along with crackers and cheese and other finger foods to enhance the taste and cleanse the palate. Class is approximately two hours. Must be 21+. W
Ongoing
Get off the couch and onto the court with our co-ed volleyball adult league. Sign up as an individual or as a team. Intermediate and advanced divisions for all skill levels. Grab some friends and have a great time bumping, setting and spiking. At least two of the six members must be female. No games on 10/28, 11/11, 11/25. W
TB
10/7–12/16
6:30, 7:15, 8 p.m.
$30/person
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WINE 102 — WINE AND FOOD PAIRINGS
Learn about wine and food pairings to impress friends at intimate parties or family gatherings. Also, learn about glassware for various wines. Several wines — white, red, dessert and sparkling (oak and stainless aged) — will be sampled along with appetizers and small portions of food. Class is approximately two hours. Must be 21+. W
11/18
7–9 p.m.
$25
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SPORTS/FITNESS CARDIO CORE
Work core muscle groups while stretching and toning with easy-to-follow, low-impact moves for all fitness levels. Bands, light weights and fit balls are used. Try first class for free.
YOGA ESSENTIALS WITH ANGELA SCHAFFER (18+)
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Increase balance, flexibility, strength, coordination and relaxation with this active, flowing yoga session. Class begins with core conditioning followed by moving from one pose to the next with rhythmic breathing. Perfect for those wanting to increase their breath control, stamina, and gain more awareness of proper alignment.
A combination of aerobics, boxing and martial arts, it is one of the most popular fitness programs in the nation. This intense, total-body workout can improve strength, aerobic fitness, flexibility, coordination and balance.
Six-week sessions with the following options available within each session: Monday or Thursday: 4 classes $48 | 5 classes $58 | 6 classes $66 / Monday & Thursday: 8 classes $96 | 10 classes $116 | 12 classes $132
T/TH
Ongoing
6–7 p.m.
$40/10-class card
CARDIO KICKBOXING
T/TH
Ongoing
6:15–7:15 p.m.
$40/10- class card
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M/TH
Ongoing
7:15–8:15 p.m.
Fees above
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14 • RECREATION PROGRAM GUIDE
Adult and Active
55+ Activities SPECIAL ACTIVITIES
FIT 4 MOM - STROLLER STRIDES
A total fitness program that moms can do with their babies. It includes power walking and intervals of strength and body toning exercises using tubing, the stroller, and the environment. All fitness levels welcome. T/TH
Ongoing
9:45 a.m.
$50/month; $8 drop-in
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HIGH-INTENSITY BOOT CAMP WITH TRACY PASLEY
Get in shape “boot camp” style! Experience high-intensity, full-body workouts that target the major muscle groups, specifically designed to get your heart rate up and make you sweat! From circuit-style routines that jump-start cardio fitness, to creative muscle-toning exercises using dumbbells, exercise bands, or even the participant’s body weight, each class brings its own unique challenges. No two classes are the same! M
11/30 – ongoing
5:30–6:30 p.m.
$40/10-class punch card
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LUNCH BUNCH
Travel to some of Kansas City’s finest restaurants. Cover your own meal. Transportation is $5 and departs from the Senior Center at 10:30 a.m.; or meet 11:15 at the restaurant. Reservation required: call 913.477.7100. TH TH
Red Door Grill: 10/8
11:15 a.m.; 10:30 a.m. w/ transportation
Meal cost + transportation
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Shawnee Hereford 11:15 a.m.; 10:30 a.m. House: 11/12 w/ transportation
Meal cost + transportation
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SENIOR PARTIES
Enjoy games and activities. Dress according to party theme and bring treats to share. Garden Villas provides activities. TH
Halloween: 10/29
12:15 p.m.
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TH
Thanksgiving: 11/19
12:15 p.m.
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TH
Holiday: 12/17
12:15 p.m.
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SENIOR CASINO NIGHT
Enjoy an evening of fun, food and friendly competition as we transform the Lenexa Community Center into Monte Carlo. Enjoy dinner before, and test your luck at different games and trivia. Call JCPRD to register: 913.826.2859. S
FREE FITNESS DEMO DAY
12/13
noon–2 p.m.
Free
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12/12
3–7 p.m.
$1
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CC
12/15
10:30 a.m.
Free
Johnson County Nutrition Lunches
$38/$43 w/transportation
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Bring treats to share. Beverages and set-ups provided.
Join us for “You Can’t Take it With You.” Buffet lunch is included. Meet at the theater at noon or at the Senior Center for transportation at 11:15 a.m. Deadline is 10/14. Lunch at noon; show at 1:15 p.m.
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SENIOR PEP FITNESS PARTY
NEW THEATRE RESTAURANT
11/14
$21/person
Enjoy fellowship and fun, play games and socialize after dinner. Set-ups and beverages provided. Bring a dish to share with 12 to15 people.
Trips and Tours
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6–9 p.m.
SENIOR POTLUCK
Join us for a fun opportunity to sample all of our awesome group fitness classes. From Boot Camp to kickboxing for high-intensity participants to Senior Pep and CHAI Yoga for our active older adults, Lenexa Parks and Recreation offers a wide variety of group fitness classes for all age groups. Class punch cards are always available. Come try out our new classes, visit the gym and get in a great workout! SU
11/7
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Johnson County Nutrition offers hot meals to all senior citizens 60+. Call 913.888.6141 between 9 and 10 a.m. 24 hours in advance to reserve your meal. Lenexa Senior Center • 11:30 a.m. M–F
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RECREATION PROGRAM GUIDE • 15
55+ Activities
Senior Taxi
TUESDAYS
CALL 913.477.7100 $5/each way
Nintendo Wii Action free play
8 a.m.–4 p.m.
Free
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Canasta/Skipbo/Upwords/ Dominos
9–11:30 a.m.; 12:30–3 p.m.
Free
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Available for Lenexa residents ages 65+, or for disabled residents who physically cannot drive. Call 48 hours in advance.
Senior Men’s Basketball
10:30 a.m.–noon
$1
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Blood Pressure Screening (third Tuesday of the month)
11 a.m.
Free
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Ping Pong
noon–2 p.m.
$1
CC
Bingo (prizes awarded)
12:15 p.m.
Free
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Pickleball
12:30–3 p.m.
$1
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Nintendo Wii Action free play
8 a.m.–4 p.m.
Free
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Canasta/Skipbo/Upwords/ Dominos
9–11:30 a.m.; 12:30–3 p.m.
Free
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Birthday entertainment (second Wednesday of month)
12:15 p.m.
Free
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Pickleball
noon–3 p.m.
$1
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Bridge (no second Wednesday)
12:30–3:30 p.m.
$0.50/person
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Nintendo Wii Action free play
8 a.m.–4 p.m.
Free
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Canasta/Skipbo/Upwords/ Dominos
9–11:30 a.m.; 12:30–3 p.m.
Free
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Monthly Cinema (first Thursday of the month)
12:15 p.m.
Free
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Hooked on Books (fourth Thursday of the month)
1–2 p.m.
Free plus cost of book
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Senior Men’s Basketball
1:30–3:30 p.m.
$1
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Nintendo Wii Action free play
8 a.m.–4 p.m.
Free
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Canasta/Skipbo/Upwords/ Dominos
9–11:30 a.m.; 12:30–3 p.m.
Free
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Pickleball
9:30 a.m.–2 p.m.
$1
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Pinochle
1–3:30 p.m.
Free
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SPORTS/FITNESS SENIOR PEP FITNESS
Get energized and gain cardiovascular endurance, flexibility and strength. All fitness levels welcome. Join anytime. T/TH
Ongoing
9:30 a.m.
$30 senior punch card; $3.50 drop-in
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C.H.A.I. Yoga
We focus on breath, strength, flexibility, balance, well-being and connection. We use music, conversation, meditation, weights, exercise bands and chairs to support our pursuit to maintain and improve our overall sense of wellness. You will be supported by your teacher and fellow students. All exercises can be modified to meet the individual’s needs. F
Ongoing
9:30–10:30 a.m.
$40/10-class punch card; $5 drop-in
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THURSDAYS
PICKLEBALL WINTER CLASSIC TOURNAMENT
This tournament’s focus will be on recreational play and is geared toward fun! Awards will be presented for divisions in men’s doubles, women’s doubles and mixed doubles. T-shirts: $6; lunch: $7. Players referee their own games. All players must be at least 50 years of age by registration deadline (11/25). Call 913.642.6410 to register. F
12/4
9 a.m.
$20 (t-shirt & lunch extra)
WEDNESDAYS
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55+ Weekly Calendar
FRIDAYS
MONDAYS Nintendo Wii Action free play
8 a.m.–4 p.m.
Free
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Canasta/Skipbo/Upwords/ Dominos
9–11:30 a.m.; 12:30–3 p.m.
Free
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Movie Mondays
12:15 p.m.
Free
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Senior Dance
1–3 p.m.
$5
CC
PRSRT  STD U.S. Postage P A I D Kansas City, MO Permit No. 32
12350 W. 87th St. Pkwy. Lenexa, KS 66215
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FAMILY RACE ACROSS LENEXA TAILS ON THE TRAILS Photo by Bill Harrison