September 2024 TownTalk

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On the cover: Communities come together in the autumn around sports teams, fall leaves and bonfires. But each fall, Lenexa’s all about food. Indulge in seasonal food and drink from the Lenexa Public Market around a fire pit, like the people on the cover. Shop the freshest fall produce at our Saturday

UPCOMING EVENTS

SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER IN THE CITY OF FESTIVALS

Spinach Festival

Sept. 7, 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park, 87th Street Parkway and Lackman Road

This family-oriented festival is packed with food, entertainment, contests, live music, hands-on activities, a spinach recipe contest and art and craft vendors. Presented by EverFast Fiber Networks. Lenexa.com/Spinach

Farm-ula 500 Veggie Race

Sept. 14, 9–11 a.m., Lenexa civic campus, 17201 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

Lettuce see if you have what it takes to win our annual veggie-powered race! Create a racing car from a piece of produce and compete against others in this all-ages elimination-style tournament. Awards are given for the top three fastest cars, as well as best decorated and best representation of the Farmers Market. $5. Register at Lenexa.com/Farmula500

Fire Department

Open House

Sept. 14, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Lenexa Fire Station No. 3, 24000 Prairie Star Pkwy.

At this day of free family fun, meet firefighters and explore fire trucks, a helicopter and a fire station. Kids can enjoy mini fire truck races and bounce houses. Everyone can participate in safety demos, CPR training and hot dogs and chips (while supplies last). Lenexa.com/FireOpenHouse

Outdoor Concert Series

5–6:30 p.m., Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park, 87th Street Parkway and Lackman Road

Bring a blanket or lawn chairs and a picnic to enjoy a variety of music at the Grand Pavilion. A program of the Lenexa Arts Council. Free admission. Presented by EverFast Fiber Networks. Lenexa.com/Concerts

KC Latin Jazz Orchestra: Sept. 15

Fast Times: Sept. 22

Swingin’ for a Scholarship Pickleball Tournament

Sept. 20–21, Bois D’Arc Park, 88th Terrace and Lackman Road

Adult players of all skill levels go paddle to paddle in this tournament supporting the Lenexa Parks & Recreation Scholarship Program. See division times and more details on page 36 or Lenexa.com/PBF.

Movie in the Park: “Elemental”

Sept. 20, movie starts at dusk (7:30 p.m.), Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park, 87th Street Parkway and Lackman Road

Enjoy a fun, free family evening under the stars! Pack some snacks and a blanket or lawn chair to enjoy the excitement of film and the joy of nature. Lenexa.com/Movie

Skate Jam

Lenexa Chili Challenge

Oct. 11, 6–10 p.m.; Oct. 12, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; Old Town Lenexa, Santa Fe Trail Drive and Pflumm Road

This free foodie festival heats up on Friday night with live music by 80s cover band M80s and a fireworks show. On Saturday, grab your spoon at the gate to feast on your fill of chili, hot wings and salsa samples, plus more live music. Face painters and balloon artists will be present both days. Little chefs can take part in the Kids Kornbread Contest on Saturday morning. Presented by Williams Food. Lenexa.com/Chili PHON WILLS

Sept. 21, 2:30–5 p.m., Rolling Magic Skate Park, 87th Street Parkway and Greenway Lane

Lenexa’s Skate Jam at the popular Rolling Magic Skate Park is sure to be a hit with skaters and enthusiasts of all ages! Enjoy live beats from our DJ while you show off your skills. Plus, don’t miss out on food truck fare and a chance to win a free helmet (while supplies last). Join us for a just-for-fun best skateboard trick contest — registration opens at 2:30 p.m. Lenexa.com/SkateJam

Food Truck Frenzy

Sept. 21, 5–9 p.m., Lenexa civic campus, 87th Street Parkway and Penrose Lane

Feast on a variety of cuisines from area food trucks, shop from local vendors and enjoy live music. Limited seating is available; feel free to bring a chair. See the lineup of food trucks at Lenexa.com/FoodTruckFrenzy.

Manhattan Short Film Festival

Sept. 26, 6:30–9 p.m., Lenexa City Hall, 17101 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

Lenexa is one of more than 500 venues worldwide where film lovers unite to view and judge the top ten short film finalists. Every film selected qualifies for the 2025 Oscars. Vote on your favorite entries for Best Film and Best Actor. A partnership with the Johnson County Library and Lenexa Arts Council. Free.

Family Campout

5 p.m. Sept. 27–9 a.m. Sept. 28, Black Hoof Park, 9053 Monticello Rd.

Pitch a tent and camp under the stars. Bring your own tent, sleeping bags and dinner. We’ll have yard games, nature activities, crafts and s’mores. In the morning, enjoy donuts, coffee and juice. $32 for first four family members; $8 per additional member. Sign up by Sept. 26 at Lenexa.com/Campout.

City Center Live

6:30 p.m., Lenexa City Hall, 17101 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

This performing arts series features a variety of musical and small theatrical acts. Free. A program of the Lenexa Arts Council.

Lenexa.com/CityCenterLive

Julia Othmer: Oct. 12

Othmer is a captivating pianoplaying singer/songwriter known for her energetic live performances. Passionate and engaging, she creates intimate warmth with her audiences.

“The Goldilocks Quartet” by Leia Barrett: Nov. 9

This engaging musical adaptation of the timeless classic “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” includes a string quartet and will delight families and children of all ages.

BILL HARRISON

Truck or Treat

Oct. 19, 8–11 a.m., Municipal Services Service Center, 7700 Cottonwood St.

This event brings out the best of touch a truck and trunk or treat. Kids will have a blast watching pumpkins get smashed by construction equipment and checking out monstrous trucks up close while collecting treats. The whole family can learn from demos showing how the Municipal Services team keeps streets, traffic signals, vehicles, stormwater systems and facilities in good shape.

Lenexa.com/TruckOrTreat

Enchanted Forest

Oct. 24, 4–8 p.m., Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park, 87th Street Parkway and Lackman Road

HALLOWEEN HAPPENINGS

For one magical night a year, Lenexa’s most popular park transforms into an Enchanted Forest filled with nottoo-spooky delights for families of all ages. Hop on a hayride, paint a pumpkin and stroll around Rose’s Pond for puppet shows, musicians, singers, magic shows and other charming performances. Limited candy available in the sponsor area. Presented by EverFast Fiber Networks. Lenexa.com/Enchanted

Weekly at the Public Market

Monday: Learn to Play Board Games

Cardboard Corner Cafe shares their love of board games with weekly game demos. Each Monday from 6 to 9 p.m., their ambassadors teach games they’re excited about to people who are ready to learn. Free. Seats available on a first-come, first-served basis. See which games they plan to feature each week at LenexaPublicMarket.com/Games

Wednesday: Family Night

Friday Night Sound Frights + Costume Contest

Oct. 25, 5–10 p.m., Lenexa Public Market, 8750 Penrose Ln.

Come in costume, gobble up food truck treats and enjoy live music! Costume contests for the whole family will be a highlight of this spookygood, block-party-style final Friday Night Sound Bites of the Year. LenexaPublicMarket.com/FNSB

Bring the whole family every Wednesday between 5 and 8 p.m. for free indoor and outdoor fun. Activities include a balloon artist, yard games, sidewalk chalk, coloring pages, classic board games and merchant specials. Watch for special rotating activities that require registration and ticket purchase. LenexaPublicMarket.com/FamilyNight

Friday Night Sound Bites

Grab a friend, get some grub and groove into the weekend. Enjoy free, live music and flavorful food options from our merchants and rotating food trucks every Friday night through Oct. 25 from 7 to 10 p.m. on the Lower Commons. LenexaPublicMarket.com/FNSB

ARTINLENEXA

CITY HALL ART GALLERY

The Lenexa Arts Council curates free rotating art shows at the City Hall gallery. Shows are open daily. Lenexa.com/ArtGallery

Lenexa Artists’ Show

Through Sept. 29

Check out hometown talent. This juried annual show highlights the work of Lenexa artists in a variety of subjects and media.

Creative Cloth quilt show & fiber art sculptures by Linda Jurkiewicz

Oct. 1–27; Artists’ reception: Oct. 3, 6–7:30 p.m.

CALLS FOR ARTISTS

Cupid’s Gems Artisan Jewelry Show

Feb. 1, 2025, Thompson Barn

This show features about 30 artists who create handcrafted jewelry. Apply Oct. 1–Nov. 8. Jury review is in mid-November. Lenexa.com/Cupids

Place of Peace Veterans Art Exhibit

Oct. 29–Nov. 24, City Hall Art Gallery

This new show features 2D and 3D art by U.S. military veterans. Apply by Sept. 30. Details at Lenexa.com/ArtGallery.

Peace Poles Community Art Project

More than 30 peace poles designed by local artists and community members are on display. Visit Black Hoof Park through Sept. 30 to enjoy this free outdoor exhibit. Organized in partnership with the Lenexa Arts Council and the Lenexa Rotary Club. Lenexa.com/PeacePoles

Coat Drive

OCT. 1–18

Take a few minutes to look through your closet and donate coats or jackets to help local families prepare for winter weather.

Donated items should be gently used, clean and in working condition. Check to make sure all zippers and buttons work properly. Donations benefit the Shawnee Mission Area Council Clothing Exchange.

Drop-off locations

• Fire Station No. 1, 9260 Pflumm Rd.

• Lenexa City Hall, 17101 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

• Lenexa Rec Center, 17201 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

• Municipal Services Service Center, 7700 Cottonwood St.

• Lenexa Old Town Activity Center (former Lenexa Community Center), 9301 Pflumm Rd.

• Lenexa Justice Center, 17371 Prairie Star Pkwy.

JEANIE WEBSTER

CHECK OUT DESIGNS FOR NEW AD ASTRA POOL

Swimmers and sunbathers can get a first look at preliminary designs for Ad Astra Pool at an upcoming community open house. Stop by Lenexa City Hall any time between 5:30 and 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 11, to view the draft designs and share your thoughts.

The City of Lenexa has budgeted $8 million to rebuild Ad Astra Pool in 2025. Since the pool opened in 1988 at Maurer Road and 83rd Street, it’s experienced numerous, worsening structural and maintenance issues. A 2021 study determined the pool will need to be totally rebuilt to stay in operation.

Through two workshops and surveys earlier this summer, participants shared and refined ideas about the amenities, design elements and programming they’d like to see at Ad Astra. The preliminary designs presented at the community meeting were crafted from this feedback.

Keep up with the latest updates at Lenexa.com/PoolProject.

About 87% of the Ad Astra Pool reconstruction project is funded by Lenexa’s 3/8-cent sales tax. Approved by voters in 2008, this tax funds street maintenance and park improvements and facilities.

Bags to Bench program a success

On Earth Day, we shared that we would collect those pesky plastic bags and wraps you can’t recycle with your trash service. Through a partnership with NexTrex, we collected plastics to be recycled into a new park bench. We hit our goal in just 90 days and kept 1,000 pounds of plastic out of the landfill! You can keep up the habit by taking your bags to local grocery stores that offer plastic bag recycling. Check with your regular shopping spot or find a location at RecycleSpot.org.

Keep up with cancellations through Statusfy

Lenexa’s notification service, Rainout Line, is now Statusfy. Lenexa Parks & Recreation uses this system to communicate schedule changes and cancellations for its facilities, events and programs.

The City will switch to the new system Sept. 3. The change is primarily a name change for the company; however, it does include refined features and a better design for users.

If you already use Rainout Line, how your alerts appear will change, text alerts will come from a different 888 phone number and email alerts will come from a Statusfy email address.

While the Rainout Line app will continue to work for the near future, we recommend downloading the free Statusfy app. The new app has enhanced location features and other benefits.

View Statusfy updates on our website at Lenexa.com/Cancellations

KEEP YOUR KIDS SAFE ONLINE

Internet Safety for Parents Workshop

OCTOBER 22 • 6–8:30 P.M.

LENEXA JUSTICE CENTER, 17371 PRAIRIE STAR PARKWAY

The Lenexa Police Department is hosting a workshop to educate parents about some of the potentially dangerous online trends they are seeing, including on social media.

Attendees will learn what steps they can take to help protect children as they navigate the digital world on their tablets, smartphones or other electronic devices.

This workshop will also include a panel discussion from professionals who will talk about their experience dealing with the negative effects of digital media on young people.

Anyone is welcome, although the class is geared toward parents of children and teens. Parents are welcome to bring their children ages 12 and up with them. Due to some of the subject matter presented, children younger than 12 are not recommended to attend.

The workshop is free, but space is limited. To sign up, visit Lenexa.com/PolicePrograms

Set up medical info and emergency contacts on your phone

Did you know your smartphone could help you in a medical emergency? There are safety features built into most phones that assist emergency responders by providing essential information like your medical conditions, allergies and current medications, as well as emergency contact information.

Consider setting up these features, and check them periodically to ensure the information is still accurate.

IPHONE

• In the Health app, select the Summary tab and tap your profile picture in the upper right corner (it may display as a circle with your initials instead).

• Enter your health information and emergency contacts.

• In the Emergency Access section under Medical ID, select Show When Locked and Share During Emergency Call for emergency responders and dispatchers to have access to your information.

PIXEL

• Use the Safety app and sign into your Google Account and tap Your Info

• Tap Medical Information and Emergency Contacts to add information.

The process for Android phones varies depending on the phone manufacturer. If your phone isn’t listed, search the web for instructions.

• Under the Emergency Info Access section, select Show When Locked for the information to be viewable when the screen is locked.

SAMSUNG

• Open Settings and tap Safety and Emergency.

• Tap Medical Information and Emergency Contacts to add information.

• In each section, select Show on Lock Screen for the information to be viewable when the screen is locked.

Smoke alarms: Make them work for you

Home fires killed more than 2,700 people in the United States in 2022, according to the National Fire Protection Association, and fire departments in the United States responded to 360,000 home fires. About 60% of these deaths happen in homes that do not have working smoke alarms. Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in reported home fires almost in half! So how do you make sure you’re covered?

Install – Test – Replace

• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area (like a hallway), and on each level (including the basement). Ideally, these are interconnected so when one goes off, they all go off.

• Test smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the test button.

• Replace smoke alarms when they are 10 years old or stop responding when tested.

Learn the sounds

Three loud beeps mean smoke or fire. Get out and call 911!

If you hear a chirp every 30–60 seconds, the battery is low, or the device has reached its end of life and needs to be replaced.

What about people who are deaf or hard of hearing?

There are special alarms and devices, like strobe lights and bed shakers, that go off when the standard smoke alarm sounds to alert of a fire.

The Kansas Office of the State Fire Marshal will provide a bed shaker and/or smoke alarm strobe for those who meet certain criteria. Visit FireMarshal.KS.gov to learn more.

Do you live or drive along 83rd Street west of Kansas Highway 7? The City of Lenexa has been studying improvements for a portion of this road, and the public can weigh in at an open house. Watch our social media accounts, My Lenexa News and Lenexa.com for the date and time.

A consultant team began studying the section of 83rd Street from Gleason Road to Clare Road in spring 2024. Meeting attendees will be invited to review concept designs and cost estimates and share feedback. Due to continuing development in western Lenexa and additional traffic from the Panasonic plant in De Soto, 83rd Street will need capacity and safety improvements within the next five years. Traffic and high-level concept analysis for the full 83rd Street corridor from Clare to the western city limits were also completed as part of this initial design phase to help the City plan future phases of improvements.

The City of Lenexa has budgeted about $13.7 million to rebuild 83rd Street from Gleason to Clare as a four-lane divided street with new stormwater, streetlight, traffic signal, bicycle and pedestrian upgrades. Due to the size and complexity of the project, construction is expected to begin in spring 2027.

To learn more about the project, visit Lenexa.com/83rdStreet.

PREPARING YOUR PROPERTY FOR DANGEROUS WEATHER

Protecting yourself in a storm should be your top priority. But protecting your home and property is also key to preventing costly repairs and serious injuries.

There are many ways you can prevent storm-related property damage throughout the year. By knowing basic information about how to approach repair and cleanup work, you can feel better prepared if damage does impact you.

FALLING TREES OR LIMBS ARE A TOP CAUSE OF STORM DAMAGE. They’re a hazard year-round, with severe thunderstorm winds in the summer months and heavy snow, ice and wind in winter storms. Proactive tree care can help you mitigate the expensive, dangerous risks of falling trees.

Trim trees that are over your house, and address any dead or dying trees and limbs with a certified arborist. Street trees are the homeowner’s responsibility to maintain, so make sure those are in good shape, too. If a tree falls in the street, the City will clear the road. Anything that falls next to the street is the property owner’s responsibility to clean up.

If a tree or limb falls into your yard from your neighbor’s yard, it is your responsibility to address the damage on your property. If you’re worried about a tree on your neighbor’s property, be sure to talk to them as soon as you can. If you can’t reach the neighbor in person, it may be best to leave a note on their door.

If you’re concerned about limbs that overhang a power line on your property, you can fill out a vegetation request at Evergy.com

STAY ON TOP OF HOME MAINTENANCE. Making sure exterior components like shingles, siding, porch/deck supports and railings are secure can help prevent damage. Cleaning out gutters regularly also helps prevent foundation issues and possible interior water intrusion.

If your basement is prone to flooding, add a water alarm. Keep your sump pump well-maintained, and consider adding a battery-powered pump backup in case your power goes out.

Have the right clothing ready to clean up debris after an emergency. Keep these items in your shelter area with your emergency kit:

Long-sleeved shirt

Long pants

Work gloves

Thick-soled shoes

Ready.gov has good tips for preparing an emergency kit.

If high winds are forecast, SECURE OR BRING INSIDE OUTDOOR ITEMS like patio furniture that could blow into your home. Be aware of trampolines if you or your neighbors have one. They often take flight in high wind.

KNOW WHEN REPAIRS REQUIRE A BUILDING PERMIT

Common repairs that require a building permit include:

• Replacing accessory structures larger than 120 square feet, like a detached garage, carport, shed or gazebo.

• Decks or porches, when you’re building a new one, expanding an existing deck/porch or doing major repairs that involve changing framing.

• Replacing fences. You don’t need a permit if you are:

• Replacing less than 50% of a single fence line with the same materials, height and design in the same location as the original fence.

• Replacing non-structural components, such as pickets.

• Roof replacement

Unless the homeowner is doing the work at the home they live in, they must hire a licensed contractor to get a permit.

Using a licensed contractor helps protect you from scams or people who aren’t familiar with our building codes.

If your repairs don’t meet City Code, you may be required to redo the work.

Before hiring a contractor, check to make sure they have a Johnson County contractor’s license and a Lenexa business license. If you aren’t sure, call Licensing & Permitting at 913.477.7725 or email permits@lenexa.com.

IDENTIFY AND CONTACT PEOPLE WHO COULD HELP YOU IN AN EMERGENCY.

• Do you know if a friend, relative or neighbor has a saw or truck you could borrow if you had extensive tree damage?

• Where could you stay if your home was dangerously damaged?

• Do you have easy access to your homeowners insurance agent’s information?

If you are physically or financially unable to clean up storm damage, there are many non-governmental organizations that may be able to assist you.

KNOW HOW WE ADDRESS TREE AND LIMB CLEANUP

How to dispose of tree debris is the most common question we get after a storm — and the answer depends on citywide conditions. In most cases, the City will not provide debris pickup or drop-off. After a serious storm, our staff drive throughout the city to assess damage. In extreme and extraordinary storm situations, such as an ice storm, microburst, tornado, or any other severe weather event that affects entire neighborhoods citywide, we may schedule a curbside pickup for the affected areas. Residents will be expected to haul storm debris to the curb or right-of-way, and City crews will pick up and haul it away.

When severe weather causes significant damage that is sporadic throughout neighborhoods, the City may open up a storm debris drop-off site for residents to haul tree debris. The drop-off site schedule and timing is determined after the storm.

Whether there is a drop-off location or curbside pickup, City employees will not go onto private property to remove or haul debris. The City will only accept vegetative debris, not damaged construction materials. Don’t have a truck or trailer? Ask a friend, neighbor or relative for help; rent a pickup truck for a couple hours; or haul what limbs you can on a tarp in the back of your personal vehicle.

If you don’t have a huge amount of debris, you can leave it out with your trash. All Lenexa waste haulers are required to pick up yard waste as part of your regular service charge. You do need to follow certain size, weight and quantity guidelines, which you’ll find at Lenexa.com/Your-Residence.

Announcements about pickup or drop-off events are released on Lenexa.com, our social media accounts and My Lenexa News, our general City e-newsletter. Sign up at Lenexa.com/ENews.

Lenexa launches new Property Tax Rebate Pilot Program

Applications are now open for the City of Lenexa’s new Property Tax Rebate Pilot Program, which provides tax relief to senior citizens and disabled veterans who meet certain guidelines. This new program was created to help reduce the tax burden resulting from rising home values. For the pilot year, a total of $100,000 is eligible for reimbursement. Every eligible applicant will receive a property tax rebate equal to a proportional share of available funds — up to 75% of the City’s share of the homeowner’s property tax bill. Rebates are expected to range from about $550 to $924.

WHO CAN APPLY

To be eligible for the rebate, you must:

• Own and occupy your home in the Lenexa city limits.

• Be age 65 or older OR be a disabled veteran with 100% military disability verified through a Veterans Affairs award letter.

• Have a home with a maximum 2023 appraised value of $390,000.

• Have a household income at or below the Very Low Income Limits for our area as shown in the table at left.

• Be current on property taxes.

HOW TO APPLY

Applications will be accepted through Oct. 31, 2024. To apply, you must submit:

• Completed application form. Download and print a copy at Lenexa. com/Rebate, or pick up a paper copy at City Hall.

• Copy of photo ID with date of birth.

• Copy of Veterans Affairs award letter showing disability rating (if applicable).

• Verification of the previous year’s household income (Form 1040 U.S. Individual Income Tax Return for 2023 OR Form SSA-1099 Social Security Benefit Statement for 2023).

Submit your application materials in person or by mail to: City of Lenexa (Attn.: Property Tax Rebate Program) 17101 W. 87th St. Pkwy., Lenexa, KS 66219

This is not a first-come, first-served program. All applications will be considered after the Oct. 31 deadline. The City expects to award rebates to eligible applicants at the end of November 2024.

DUMPSTER DAYS

OCT. 5–6, 8 A.M.–4 P.M. MUNICIPAL

7700

Lenexa residents can drop off bulky items at our Dumpster Days events, hosted one weekend each spring and fall. Bring proof of residency, like a driver’s license or utility bill. We charge fees to cover recycling, disposal and transportation costs. You can pay with cash, check or credit card.

FEES PER LOAD

Car, minivan with seats $20

Minivan without seats, SUV $25

Small trailer (one axle) $30

Pickup, panel/service van $40

Tandem-axle truck or trailer, small moving-style box truck $50

Large moving-style box truck $75

CONTACT US

8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday–Friday

913.477.7500

17101 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

913.477.7725

AskComDevel@lenexa.com

Building permits, licenses (business, pet, rental, etc.), code violations, new development, engineering, right of way, traffic management, planning, zoning

CITY ADMINISTRATION

CityClerk@lenexa.com

HUMAN RESOURCES

HumanResources@lenexa.com

COMMUNICATIONS

Communications@lenexa.com

PARKS & RECREATION

Programs and classes, festivals and events, park maintenance, facility and shelter rentals, pools (see pg. 26–27 for facility hours and locations)

8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday–Friday

913.477.7100

17201 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

POLICE DEPARTMENT

Crime prevention and incident response, police reports, animal control, traffic safety, vacation house watch, school resource officers

913.477.7301 (non-emergency)

17371 Prairie Star Pkwy.

FIRE DEPARTMENT

Fire prevention and incident response, burn permits, first aid training, fire extinguisher training, fire inspections

913.888.6380 (non-emergency)

Administrative office: 9620 Pflumm Rd.

MUNICIPAL COURT

Pay a ticket, court record search, victims’ rights

8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday–Friday

913.477.7600

17333 Prairie Star Pkwy.

MUNICIPAL SERVICES

Street repair and maintenance, street lights, snow and ice removal, stormwater drainage

8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday–Friday

913.477.7880

7700 Cottonwood St.

LENEXA JUSTICE CENTER NOW OPEN

The Lenexa Justice Center opened its doors to the public Aug. 26. Designed to embody the community’s dedication to safety and justice, it serves as the headquarters for Lenexa Police Department and Lenexa Municipal Court. This modern, well-planned facility offers countless benefits to the 151 police employees and seven Municipal Court staff who now work there, as well as the citizens who visit for a wide range of reasons.

BUILT TO SERVE THE COMMUNITY

Public areas of the building are designed to be safe, welcoming and comfortable. Visitors doing business with Court, working with a public service officer or attending an event in the Community Room are greeted by a bright, inviting lobby.

The Community Room is a warm and well-equipped space for the Police Department to host educational workshops.

Across the lobby Municipal Court attendees and staff will appreciate increased safety and security measures. The courtroom is upgraded with modern technology to assist in presentation of evidence during trials and facilitate virtual court appearances.

Even secure areas of the building that can be accessed by the public, like victim interview rooms and mental health co-responder areas, are designed to help visitors feel more at ease.

DESIGNED FOR TOP STAFF PERFORMANCE

The Lenexa Police Department prides itself on being a proactive, welltrained and well-equipped agency. The Justice Center is designed to enhance those qualities now and into the future.

Dispatchers are responding to calls in a state-of-the-art space. Property storage has been signficantly expanded with biometric security measures and specialized storage areas. Technicians have strategically configured spaces to maintain equipment, technology and vehicles. Even the K-9s have a space specially designed for their role.

LOCATED AT 17371 PRAIRIE STAR PKWY.

Secure areas of the building are designed with efficiency in mind. From getting ready for the day in the locker room, grabbing a duty bag for a patrol shift, writing a report or booking a suspect, attention to detail and process enhances each part of an officer’s shift.

Recruiting high-quality officers is a top goal of the Department. The training facility behind the main Justice Center building has large classrooms to foster continuous officer development and a unique space to practice defensive tactics.

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

Come celebrate National Night Out with the Lenexa Police Department at the new Lenexa Justice Center. This fun, familyfriendly event will include a police K-9 demonstration, vehicle displays, food and more. National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer and more caring places to live.

neighborly BEING

Issues with a neighbor are common, and they can often be resolved with a conversation. If you have a property concern and feel safe talking to your neighbor, we encourage you to politely approach them or leave a note as your first course of action. They may not realize they’re affecting you, and you may be able to work together to solve an issue.

While the City doesn’t get involved with or mediate private property matters, there are some situations where you’ll want to contact us.

Knowing when an issue crosses the line into a legal violation or public safety concern can be tricky. If you or your family have been threatened or you are concerned for your safety, always call the police. Here are a few ways you can take action in other difficult situations to keep your neighborhood safe and welcoming.

Suspicious activity

If you notice suspicious activity at a neighbor’s house, report it. Police may not know there’s a problem unless they are told, but people often take for granted that someone else has called or they’re being a “nosy neighbor.”

Notifying the police lets them further investigate the situation to determine if there’s criminal activity. Signs to watch for include:

• A high volume of traffic regularly going to and from a home but not staying long.

• People arriving at or leaving homes at unusual hours regularly.

• Strangers loitering outside their house.

• Someone peering into their cars or windows.

• Someone tampering with electrical, gas or sewer systems without an identifiable company vehicle or uniform.

If you see suspicious, possibly criminal activity, you should never try to take action. Always call the police so trained law enforcement officers can handle it. Call 911 when it’s an emergency.

If the residence next to you is for sale or rent, it could be unoccupied. Watch for open or broken doors and windows.

TIPS FOR WORKING WITH THE PEOPLE NEXT DOOR

Lawn and garden issues

You aren’t required by City Code to rake up your leaves, but it is neighborly to keep your leaves from blowing into adjacent yards.

Leaf care can require a lot of time and physical labor, especially in established areas with mature trees. If your neighbor is elderly, recovering from an injury or has other physical challenges, consider asking if they need help.

If you’re looking for another way to dispose of leaves, consider mulch mowing. Mow over the leaves with no bagger attachment. Then reattach the bagger and collect the leaves. Use the fine collected leaf material as a nutritious mulch around trees and in garden beds, or add it to your compost mix.

If you spot someone raking or blowing leaves into a storm drain, call Lenexa Municipal Services at 913.477.7880. It’s illegal to dump anything into a storm drain, including liquids.

Disruptive neighbors

If your neighbor’s dog is barking more than usual or disrupting you, it’s a good idea to call or text them to make sure they’re OK. There might be a reason the dog won’t stop barking. If you can’t get ahold of your neighbor, call the non-emergency line at 913.477.7301.

It can be uncomfortable to crash a house party and tell them to quiet down. If there’s a loud gathering next door late at night, call the non-emergency police number.

If your neighbor is burning illegal things such as lumber or trash, please call the non-emergency number when it’s occurring so the Fire Department can be sent out.

ELECTION SIGNS & OTHER TEMPORARY SIGNS

Temporary signs like garage sale, election and contractor signs don’t require a permit, but there are some rules you need to follow. Those rules change during an election period — 45 days before and two days after a primary, general or special election.

Rules that always apply

• Signs may not be placed in public parks or on other public property.

• Signs may not exceed 6 square feet in area or 4 feet in height.

• Signs may not exceed 5 pounds in weight, including both the sign and its mounting system.

• Signs may not be placed where they could obstruct drivers’ views.

• Signs must be placed with the property owner’s consent.

• Signs can remain in a yard for up to 90 days, as long as they are out of the right of way.

When we aren’t in an election period

• Signs are not allowed in the public right of way.

• Signs must be set back at least 5 feet from the public rightof-way line.

During an election period

• Signs are allowed in the right of way but must be set back 6 feet from the back of the curb. They cannot be placed between the back of the curb and a sidewalk or trail.

• They must be removed from the right of way outside of the applicable election period.

Where’s the right of way?

To know where you can put a sign, it’s important to understand generally where public right of way is located. It’s not uniform throughout the city. If you are concerned about a specific sign location, call Community Development at 913.477.7500.

General rules for determining the right of way:

• On streets with sidewalks and trails, it’s considered 1 foot behind the sidewalk or trail.

• If only one side of the street doesn’t have a sidewalk or trail, it should be measured a similar distance from the back of the curb as the opposite side of the street with the sidewalk or trail.

• If the street doesn’t have a sidewalk or trail, the right of way is considered 11 feet from the back of the curb.

4

WAYS LENEXA’S COMPREHENSIVE PLAN BENEFITS RESIDENTS

The Lenexa City Council adopted the new Lenexa Comprehensive Plan in July 2024. Crafted by extensive study, analysis and community input, it serves as the City’s official policy guide for future growth and development.

A Comprehensive Plan is a fundamental document for well-planned communities. City leaders use the Comprehensive Plan to ensure development proposals and public investments are in alignment with the community’s vision.

Developers and the business community use it to prepare for projects and ensure they align with the City’s goals for land uses and building design.

But a Comprehensive Plan can also be a valuable resource for residents. Here are a few top ways the new Plan benefits Lenexans.

It provides a framework to make the community’s goals a reality.

Vision 2040 brought thousands of residents together to craft big-picture ideas that would shape Lenexa into the city they want it to be in 20 years. The Comprehensive Plan process used data-driven analysis and careful study to hone those high-level concepts into actionable recommendations.

“I’m proud of the work our community has put into creating the new Comprehensive Plan,” said Scott McCullough, Community Development Director. “The final product outlines practical steps to bring many of the big-picture ideas from Vision 2040 to fruition. Recommendations in the Plan can help further community goals like providing missing-middle housing, improved connectivity, sustainable development, appropriate redevelopment of commercial areas and neighborhood nodes.” In the Comprehensive Plan, symbols above each goal make it easy to see how they connect to Vision 2040 topic areas.

Lenexa’s Comprehensive Plan includes goals and policies in five key areas:

• Housing and neighborhoods

• Commercial and employment areas

• Transportation and mobility

• Community facilities and infrastructure

• Parks, open space and recreation

It

promotes

highquality neighborhoods across the city.

“The Plan includes strategies to maintain, invest in and enhance Lenexa’s established neighborhoods,” said McCullough.

“Where subdivisions have been built in isolated areas, the Plan features policies that encourage a well-planned, cohesive transition between the density and uses of future development and the existing homes.”

The Plan also helps ensure these neighborhoods have convenient access to quality goods and services, parks, trails, transportation and employment opportunities.

PHOTOS BY CAMERON CROWDER

3

It helps you, the resident, understand expectations about how development is planned to occur over time and what changes could be proposed to City Code.

A key component of the Comprehensive Plan is the Future Land Use Map, which identifies where uses — like residential, commercial and business park — and their densities and intensities are compatible and desirable across the city. It’s an especially useful resource for understanding how undeveloped land is expected to be used in the future.

You can learn more about the City’s future plans for new streets, trails and parks through maps included in the document, too. Staff are working to convert these maps into interactive digital maps at Lenexa.com

The Comprehensive Plan recommends a number of Development Code changes to help achieve goals identified by the community, including:

4

• Integrating a range of housing types in new subdivisions.

• Detailed design standards for a variety of housing types.

• Subdivision requirements that enhance connectivity, sustainability and conservation.

Any changes to the City’s Development Code need to go through a formal process that includes public input. A good way to stay on top of proposed changes to planning and zoning standards is to sign up for Planning Commission agendas and minutes at Lenexa.com/ENews.

The Plan helps City leaders make strategic decisions in line with the community’s vision and use your tax dollars responsibly and efficiently.

“This new Comprehensive Plan will be a valuable decision-making tool for staff, the City Council and the Planning Commission,” said Beccy Yocham, Lenexa City Manager. “When City leaders review proposals related to land use, economic development, housing and other key community issues, they’ll consider how these projects align with the recommendations of the Comprehensive Plan.”

The Comprehensive Plan ensures Lenexa has the right balance of residential and non-residential property to generate sustainable sales and property tax revenue. It helps the City plan adequate staffing and appropriate infrastructure to provide high-quality services for future development as planned.

“By establishing a more detailed vision for how the city is likely to develop, staff can plan for future infrastructure in a smart, fiscally responsible way,” she said.

PARTICIPATE IN FUN ACTIVITES TO PROMOTE CITY PLANNING

Starting Oct. 1, visit Lenexa.com/PlanningMonth for fun contests and activities that celebrate city planning in our community. We’ll share pictures and clues about several spots around town, and if you identify each location correctly by Oct. 31, you’ll be entered to win a Lenexa prize pack! Check out the webpage during October for other fun activities and information about planning in Lenexa.

FEELS LIKE FALL

at the Lenexa Farmers Market

Autumn sweeps in with crisp air, breathtaking foliage, cozy sweaters and hot drinks. At the Lenexa Farmers Market, we’re ready to welcome locally grown apples, winter squashes, and roasted chicken with herbs. Visit the Market on Saturdays to see what delights the new season brings.

Harvest décor

Decorate your porch or home with a rustic fall look using colorful mums, ornamental gourds, decorative corn, pumpkins and fall wreaths.

Fall-flavored treats

Our vendors are rolling out fall menus of baked goods and beverages with classic flavors and warming spices:

• Artisan Kombucha — seasonal kombucha flavors in pear cider, apple spice, honey chai, elderberry, vanilla chai.

• BeyLo’s Kitchen — Halloween cookie decorating boxes, pumpkin cookies.

• Brew Haha Coffeehouse — fall spice and pumpkin spice lattes, apple cider, pumpkin muffins.

• Le Cozinha Low Carb — pumpkin breads, cakes and cookies; cinnamon swirl cake and cookies.

• JET Produce and Meats — apple cider, applesauce, cornbread mix, soup mix.

• Rock the House Bakery — pumpkin and apple pies, apple honey bread.

• The Bean Patch — seasonal jam and jelly flavors in pear cranberry, cranberry jalapeno, apple jelly, apple butter.

• Yummylicious Cookie Company — pumpkin cookies, apple caramel walnut cookies.

Autumn scents

Get fragrant with seasonal bath products:

• Madd House Hill’s seasonal goat milk soaps in Chai Tea and Cloves & Orange.

• Next to Nature Farm’s beeswax soaps in Enchanted Apple and Rosemary & Thyme.

SATURDAYS through Oct. 26 | 8 a.m.–noon

Lenexa civic campus 17201 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

Native Plant Sale

Sept. 7, 8 a.m.–noon

Discover a variety of vibrant native flowers and grasses for your yard. These easy-care, pollinator-friendly plants from area nurseries are adapted to our local climate and soil. Lenexa residents can apply for a 75% rebate on native plants through our Cost Share Program. Staff will have applications available at this event. Lenexa.com/NativePlantSale Lenexa.com/CostShare

New vendors

We welcomed many new vendors to the Market this year, offering everything from mushrooms to fresh pasta and sauces.

• Artisan Kombucha

• Barton’s Produce Farm

• Compost Collective KC

• Fresh Picked Acres of Kansas

• King of Chutney

• Kukiss Bakery

• Miner’s Garden Market

• Morning Light Kombucha

• MyCo Planet LLC

• New Roots — Thain Za Cung

• Ree Ree’s Krunchies

• The Golden Medley

• The Perfect Crumb by The Wooden Spoon

• Zero Zero Handmade Pasta

Your favorite honeysuckle removal crew is back in action

A herd of goats returned to Lenexa this summer to help clear invasive species from the stream corridor at Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park. The City of Lenexa started working with Goats on the Go in summer 2021 to supplement our ongoing invasive plant removal efforts. We invest abundant labor and equipment to remove invasive plants from our parks and streams each year. Invasive species are nonnative plants that spread aggressively, overtaking the native plants and trees that ensure a healthy stream ecosystem.

You can help prevent the spread of harmful species by removing them from your yard. Dig them up if you can; otherwise cut them down and treat with an herbicide. Keep an eye out for these common invasive species.

While invasive plants are hard work for humans to remove, goats think they’re delicious. Their nimble hooves and voracious appetites make quick work of clearing out a streamway. For this treatment to be most effective, it needs to be done repeatedly. Over time, the stress of being gobbled up by goats over and over again will kill off the invasive plants.

You can visit the goats and learn more about their important work at the Spinach Festival on Sept. 7. See event details on page 3 or Lenexa.com/Spinach

WILD GRAPE JOHNSONGRASS

SENIOR CENTER PROGRAMS MOVING INTO NEW HOME AT THE

E E A L T W C I I Y E T R L N X O D O N A T V T C N E

a quick guide to upcoming name changes

The Lenexa Community Center building is being renovated and expanded. The project is split into two phases. The first phase, which focuses work on the eastern side of the building, has been under construction since January 2024.

Once the first phase of improvements opens to the public this fall, the building will be known as the Lenexa Old Town Activity Center. It will house all the programs that are now at the Community Center and Senior Center.

After Senior Center programs move into the Activity Center, the Lenexa Senior Center will be torn down to make way for an outdoor recreation space. This second phase, which includes more interior upgrades, will open late 2024/early 2025.

Crews are putting the finishing touches on the first phase of the Lenexa Old Town Activity Center project. Once work is complete this fall, programs housed at the Senior Center will move permanently into this comfortable, dynamic new space.

Work on two large additions and extensive renovations to the Community Center building began in 2024. These improvements consolidate Community Center and Senior Center activities into one facility, now called the Lenexa Old Town Activity Center.

A welcoming place for seniors

When planning this merger of programs and populations, Parks & Recreation Director Logan Wagler said staff worked hard to balance the needs of current users with future opportunities.

“Our existing Senior Center building has served many functions including an auto body shop, city hall, and — of course — the Senior Center for a very long time,” said Wagler. “It’s a special place for many of our citizens, especially our senior population. We worked very closely with our user groups to determine the needs and priorities for the new space to ensure it is bigger and better but kept the comforts regular visitors appreciate.

“The new Haskins Wing — the eastern area of the building — will create a more welcoming and functional space for our senior-focused programs along with a wide range of other uses. It will serve as a hub for community gatherings, fostering stronger social connections and a sense of belonging.”

This area of the building includes a welcoming lobby for socializing, kitchen space and a large multipurpose room addition. The Haskins Room will host weekday meals, educational seminars and social activities that were offered at the Senior Center.

The Haskins Wing has a separate entrance on the southeast side of the building. Updates to the parking lot and sidewalks will make it easier and safer for seniors to access the new entrance.

New and improved space for programs for all ages

Existing space near the middle of the Community Center was renovated into the Walnut Room, a multipurpose area. Another multipurpose room was added to the front of the building. The light-filled Oak Room offers even more flexible programming space and adds an interesting architectural element to the formerly L-shaped building. These renovations will allow Lenexa’s popular Shining Stars Dance program and other classes to move into the Activity Center.

What’s next?

Once programs have moved out of the Senior Center, the second phase of the project can begin. The Senior Center, which has reached the end of its useful life, will be razed and replaced with a new outdoor gathering space.

Once complete, visitors will enjoy new pickleball courts, shuffleboard courts, open turf areas and a “pickleball porch” with covered outdoor seating. Work will also begin on renovations to the western portion of the building, including new glass doors and windows that connect the gymnasium to the outdoor seating area.

This second and final phase of the project is expected to wrap up in late 2024 or early 2025. In the meantime, keep an eye out for occasional gym and other closures while work continues in this much-anticipated new Lenexa destination.

“I am beyond excited about the positive transformations this renovation project will bring to our community,” said Wagler. “The upgraded facility has very flexible and sustainable spaces that will serve this community’s recreational needs for the next 50 years.”

Keep up with the project’s progress and learn more at Lenexa.com/ActivityCenter.

Programs held at the Senior Center are tentatively planned to move into the Old Town Activity Center (former Community Center) in late September/early October. Visit Lenexa.com/ActivityCenter or follow us on social media for updates.

mural project gets st art

ed

Stop by the Old Town Activity Center later this fall to watch the building’s colorful new mural take shape! Local artist Evan Brown — known as Doodle Dood — will begin painting his “Meet Me in Lenexa” mural after the Lenexa Chili Challenge wraps up Oct. 12. Brown’s vibrant design, selected through a community poll, will wrap around the southwest corner of the building. (A small section of the mural design is featured to the right.)

This project is partly funded by a grant from the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission, which receives support from the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency.

RECREATION PROGRAM GUIDE

REGISTERING FOR PROGRAMS

Online

Sign up for programs and find additional details at Lenexa.com/GetActive. (New users must create a household account listing each household member).

In the top menu, select “Search,” then “Activity Search.”

Type in the Activity Number listed at the end of the course description (example: #123456).

In person

Walk-in registrations are available Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. at the Lenexa Rec Center.

Waitlist and patron cancellations View policies at Lenexa.com/Registration.

Scholarships available

Lenexa Parks & Recreation offers scholarships to make memberships and programs more affordable for Lenexa residents. Visit Lenexa.com/Scholarships to learn more.

ADA accommodations

The City of Lenexa is committed to making reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Request for accommodations must be made at least 10 business days prior to the activity.

Parks & Amenities

PARK HOURS: 5 a.m.–11 p.m.

RESTROOMS: Park restrooms open mid-April–October (weather permitting). Portable toilets available November–mid-April. Acres

LENEXA REC CENTER

17201 W. 87th St. Pkwy. • 913.477.PLAY (7529) • Lenexa.com/RecCenter

Mon.–Fri.: 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. • Sat.: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. • Sun: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

This 100,000-square foot facility features cutting-edge fitness equipment, a fun-filled indoor pool, group fitness classes, a jogging/walking track that surrounds a full-service fitness floor, two gyms for open play and party rental spaces.

GROUP X FITNESS CLASSES

We offer more than 45 Group X drop-in fitness classes each week at a variety of times to fit your schedule. The lineup features cardio/strength, aqua, cycle and mind + body activities. See the latest schedule at Lenexa.com/GroupX.

All Group X fitness classes are included with an X Pass Membership

Core Pass Members pay $7 per class or can buy a 10-class punch card.

Day passes for nonmembers include access to one class per day.

GYM/POOL SCHEDULES

Schedules for the Activity Gym, Second Floor Gym and open swim/indoor pool are available at Lenexa.com/RecCenter.

LABOR DAY HOURS

Open 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

MEMBERSHIP RATES

• Core Pass: Access to all Rec Center amenities

• Pass: Access to all Rec Center amenities, Group X fitness classes and a 10% discount on programs and services

• Day Pass: Access as a Core Pass member, plus one Group X fitness class

*Max of five individuals at same address (ages 3+).

**Price is per person added to an adult or senior membership, or for the sixth and up person on a household membership.

• No initiation or application fees. Memberships can be canceled with 30 days’ notice. Scholarships available.

• Kids 2 and under are free for memberships and passes.

LENEXA OLD TOWN ACTIVITY CENTER

9301 Pflumm Rd. • 913.477.7100 • Lenexa.com/ActivityCenter

Monday–Friday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Once the first phase of renovations to the Lenexa Community Center are complete and Senior Center programs move into the building, this facility will be known as the Lenexa Old Town Activity Center. This transition is expected to take place in late September/early October 2024.

Spaces opening this fall include a new addition to the building’s east side, which will house senior programming, as well as several multipurpose rooms.

The second phase of renovations to the building’s west side are expected to be complete this winter. Watch Statusfy for construction-related closures and changes to drop-in programs.

FACILITIES FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE

Bois D'Arc Park (BDP)

Lackman Road and 88th Terrace

Lenexa Community Center (CC) 13240 Oak St.

Lenexa Old Town Activity Center (OTAC) 9301 Pflumm Rd.

Lenexa Rec Center (REC) 17201 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

Lenexa Senior Center (SC) 13425 Walnut St.

Little Mill Creek Fields (MCF) 7898 Cottonwood St.

Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park (SKPTP) 87th Street Parkway and Greenway Lane

Thompson Barn (TB) 11184 Lackman Rd.

If you’re participating in a program that’s typically at the Senior Center, it will move to the Lenexa Old Town Activity Center later this fall.

LABOR DAY HOURS

Lenexa Community Center and Lenexa Senior Center closed

EXTENDED HOURS COMING 2025

After the second phase of renovations are complete, we plan to expand hours at the Old Town Activity Center to include evenings and weekends.

Rainout Line is now Statusfy! See page 7 for more information.

YOUTH

YOUTH DROP-IN PROGRAMS

Advance registration is not required for these recurring activities. Schedule is subject to change; may be modified on Shawnee Mission School District days out.

Gym for Me (Ages 5 and under): Toys, balls and more provided. Adult supervision required. $2 per nonmember child/guardian; Free at the Rec Center for members. *Starts the week of Sept. 9.

Open Gym (8th grade & under): Parents and guardians welcome. Free.

Open Gym (9th grade & over): Parents and guardians welcome. Free.

Splash With Me (Ages 5 and under): Adult supervision required. $2 per nonmember child/guardian; Free at the Rec Center for members.

Sports Play: Dedicated space for futsal, soccer and homeschool PE. See Lenexa.com/ RecCenter for the current schedule. $2; free for members.

and days

Pictured: Youth Soccer League • Bavley Hannah

CAMPS

Kids Day Out Camp (Kindergarten–Age 12)

Looking for something for your child to do on non-school days? Drop them off at the Rec Center for a full day of fun! Activities may include pickleball, dodgeball, outdoor interaction, cooking, STEAM and more. Occasional field trips may involve bowling, trampolines, roller skating, movies and more. Bring a sack lunch and water bottle (snacks provided). An email is sent about one week before camp with specific details. #501401

ENRICHMENT

Art Classes (Ages 6–12)

September: Paint. Join a collision of color and master the methods of acrylic and watercolor painting. Practice the basics and explore the possibilities.

October: 3D Design. Create with no fear! Apply collage, printmaking, sculpture, clay and other messy media to create two- and three-dimensional art projects.

November: Draw. Build basic drawing skills on various papers and surfaces. Try easy techniques and explore media using pencils, pens, pastels and more. #501201

W 9/4–9/18 6:30–7:30 p.m. $36 REC

TH 9/5–9/19 6:30–7:30 p.m. $36 REC

W 10/2–10/16 6:30–7:30 p.m. $36 REC

TH 10/3–10/17 6:30–7:30 p.m. $36 REC

W 11/6–11/20 6:30–7:30 p.m. $36 REC

TH 11/7–11/21 6:30–7:30 p.m. $36 REC

LEGO After School (Ages

5–6)

Join us after school to let your imagination run wild with tens of thousands of LEGO parts and our enthusiastic Play-Well TEKnologies instructors. Projects are rotated to ensure new and returning students can explore the endless creative possibilities of LEGO. #501403

Adventures in STEM: Build engineer-designed projects and use special pieces to create your own unique designs. Minecraft Engineering: Get ready to build your base, craft your tools, use your Minecart to harvest raw resources and battle to stop the Ender Dragon from ending the world.

T STEM: 9/3–10/1 4–5:30 p.m. $151 REC

T Minecraft: 10/8–11/12 4–5:30 p.m. $181 REC

T Olathe/Shawnee Mission: 9/3 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. $47

F Olathe/Shawnee Mission: 10/11 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

M Shawnee Mission: 10/14 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

TH Olathe: 10/17 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. $47

F Olathe/Shawnee Mission: 10/18 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. $47

LEGO After School (Ages 7–12)

Master your engineering skills and bring Minecraft adventures to life with Play-Well TEKnologies. Projects are rotated to ensure students get a new experience. #501404

STEM Explorations: Engineer-designed projects apply realworld concepts in physics, engineering and architecture. Minecraft Master Engineering: Build shelters to keep out Creepers, craft mystical items only masters can wield and perfect your crossbow skills to stop the Wither.

W STEM: 9/4–10/2 4–5:30 p.m. $151 REC

W Minecraft: 10/9–11/13 4–5:30 p.m. $181 REC

Preschool Pals (Ages 3.5–5)

This program is designed to help children reach developmental milestones needed for success in kindergarten. An emphasis is placed on nature, music, fitness and art, while focusing on development through hands-on learning. Must be potty trained. #5011003

T/TH 9/3–9/26 9–11 a.m. $17/day REC

T/TH 10/1–10/31 9–11 a.m. $17/day REC

T/TH 11/5–11/21 9–11 a.m. $17/day REC

Young Explorers (Ages 3.5–5)

All About Apples: Dive into the world of apples — varieties, colors, flavors and the journey from seed to fruit. Little Scientist: Kids learn basic scientific concepts through exciting experiments, investigations and observations. Block Bonanza: With each click and clack, the fun never stops in the colorful world of building blocks. #501303

W All About Apples: 9/4 9–10 a.m. $12.50 REC

W Little Scientist: 10/2 9–10 a.m. $12.50 REC

W Block Bonanza: 11/6 9–10 a.m. $12.50 REC

SPORTS/FITNESS

E-Sports (Ages 8–17)

Compete in a Super Smash Bros. league to sharpen your gaming skills and meet other players. League ends with a one-day tournament. Participants are assigned 45-minute game slots one week before the league. #501138

W 11/6–12/11 5–8 p.m. $39 REC

Happy Feet Soccer (Ages 2.5–5)

Using songs, stories, nursery rhymes and games, this introductory soccer program uses creative play techniques to develop skills that stay with kids as they grow. It’s a great foundation to make soccer fun and imaginative. #501102

M 9/9–9/30 11:30 a.m.–noon $50 REC

M 10/7–10/28 11:30 a.m.–noon $50 REC

M 11/4–12/2 11:30 a.m.–noon $50 REC

Karate (Ages 5+)

Students progress through ranks in Shindo Jinen Ryu,a traditional Japanese karate style, by refining basic techniques, working on self-defense and learning competition style kata (form). Upcoming sessions: Sept. 4–28, Oct. 2–26, Oct. 30–Nov. 23. Attend unlimited classes per month for $65. Additional family members receive a 10% discount. Additional fees include uniforms fee ($30) and belt test fee ($45). #501113

Beginners

W Ongoing 5:30–6:30 p.m. Fees above REC

S Ongoing 9–10 a.m. Fees above REC

Intermediate

W/TH/F Ongoing 6:30–7:30 p.m. Fees above REC

S Ongoing 10–11 a.m. Fees above REC

Advanced

W/TH/F Ongoing 7:30–8:30 p.m. Fees above REC

S Ongoing 11 a.m.–noon Fees above REC

Learn to Play Basketball (Ages 2.5–6)

Grow your child’s competence and confidence. Instructors focus on development and teaching the rules of the game to promote sportsmanship, confidence, fundamentals, fitness and fun! Participants receive a T-shirt. Parent involvement required for ages 2.5–4. #401108

TH 10/17–12/12 Ages 2.5–4: 5:30–6:15 p.m. $39 OTAC

TH 10/17–12/19 Ages 4–6: 6:30–7:15 p.m. $49 OTAC

LTD Basketball Skills Academy (Grades 1–6)

Build skills and self-confidence. This program develops athletes, starting with the basics – shooting, dribbling, defending, rebounding and passing. Each week builds on the previous week. All skill levels welcome. #301114

T 9/10–10/15

T 9/10–10/15

Grades 1–3: 6–7 p.m. $90 CC

Grade 4–6: 7–8 p.m. $90 CC

LTD Boys 3 v. 3 Basketball League (Grades 9–12)

Improve your basketball skills with Livin’ the Dream (LTD). With only three players on the court and six on a team, the game is faster, and players learn to think more quickly. It can be a huge benefit to playing regular 5 v. 5 basketball. Players must register as individuals, but if they have a team or player(s) they want to play with, indicate that when signing up. We do our best to accommodate requests but cannot make guarantees. Reversible jerseys provided. #401103

S 9/14–10/26 9 a.m.–noon $120 OTAC

Skateboarding 101 (Ages 3–12)

Participants will learn basic skateboarding skills and etiquette, including balance, tick tacks, time in the bowl and going up and down smaller ramps. Parents are required to attend all class sessions for the full duration of each class. Helmets are required. Students need to bring their own skateboard. Knee and elbow pads are recommended. #501143

S 9/28–10/12 1–2:30 p.m. $60 SKPTP

Youth Basketball League (Kindergarten–Second Grade)

Basketball promotes physical fitness, teamwork and communication. The first three weeks of the league are practice-only. Kids work on dribbling, passing, shooting and defense. The last five weeks are games where they put what they learn into action.

Kindergarten league is 3-on-3 with teams of six players. First and second grade league is 4-on-4 with teams of eight players. Team T-shirt included and needed for games. Each practice/game is 45 minutes. Schedule provided one week before league starts. #501128

M 10/14–12/16

SPORTS/FITNESS

Youth Flag Football (Grades 1–3)

Learn and enjoy the fundamentals of football without the physical contact of tackling. This recreational, coed league enhances skills like agility, coordination and teamwork. Simplified rules make it easier for kids to grasp and enjoy the game. First three weeks are practice. Last five weeks are games. Team T-shirt included. Participants need their own mouthguard. Cleats are optional. All other equipment provided. #501148

S 9/7–10/26 First Grade: 10–11 a.m. $69 MCF

S 9/7–10/26 Grades 2–3: 12:30–1:30 p.m. $69 MCF

Youth Lifting Club (Ages 10–16)

This club is designed for youth to have a time to talk to a trainer and get guidance on their fitness journey. With so many sources out there giving conflicting information, our trainers will give customized feedback. This is a small community for youth to lift together, motivate each other and help make being active a staple in their lives. #501159

T 10/1–12/31 4–5:30 p.m. $45 REC

Youth Small Group Training (Ages 10–16)

Your child will learn the fundamentals of strength and cardio endurance training. This class introduces a fun, exciting, noncompetitive exercise program built just for their age group and ability level. #501158

TH 9/5–9/26 5:15–6 p.m. $45 REC

TH 10/3–10/24 5:15–6 p.m. $45 REC

TH 11/7–11/28 5:15–6 p.m. $45 REC

Youth Soccer League (Preschool–Fourth Grade)

Run. Kick. Pass. Lay a foundation of athletic proficiency and develop large motor skills with soccer. This league starts with a 25-minute practice followed by a 25-minute game. Team T-shirt included. Shin guards required. Rubber cleats optional. All other equipment provided. #201111

S 9/7–10/12 Pre-K (Ages 3–4): 11:15 a.m.–12:05 p.m. $55 MCF

S 9/7–10/12 Pre-K (Ages 3–4): 12:30–1:20 p.m.

MCF

S 9/7–10/26 Kindergarten–First Grade: 8:50–9:40 a.m. $69 MCF

S 9/7–10/26 Kindergarten–First Grade: 12:30–1:20 p.m. $69 MCF

S 9/7–10/26 Grades 2–4: 10–10:50 a.m. $69 MCF

Youth Tennis Lessons (Ages 6–13)

Learn proper techniques, improve fitness and build discipline. Whether your child is new to the sport or wants to improve their play, weekly lessons can foster their enjoyment of the game as they develop skills in an atmosphere that promotes friendship and sportsmanship. Participants need their own racquet. #501110

W 9/4–9/25

W 9/4–9/25

W 10/2–10/23

W 10/2–10/23

Ages 6–9: 5:15–6:15 p.m. $100 SKPTP

Ages 10–13: 6:30–7:30 p.m. $100 SKPTP

Ages 6–9: 5:15–6:15 p.m. $100 SKPTP

Ages 10–13: 6:30–7:30 p.m. $100 SKPTP

SIGN UP TO BE A VOLUNTEER COACH

Have fun and quality time with your child AND get a discount off their league registration fees! Curriculum provided. All coaches will receive a 20% credit from their child’s registration fee at the end of the season. Interested? Contact Ryan Latta at rlatta@lenexa.com.

VOLUNTEER COACHES NEEDED FOR

PLAYGROUND PASSPORTS DUE IN SEPTEMBER

Are you close to visiting all the playgrounds and solving the secret code in your Playground Passport? Turn in your completed passport to the Lenexa Rec Center by Sept. 15 to collect your prize and be entered in a drawing to win an outdoor prize package! Lenexa.com/Passport

Shining Stars Dance (Ages 3–17)

Introduce your child to a variety of dance styles with Miss Tauna. In addition to instruction in tap, ballet, tumbling, acrobatics, jazz, hip hop and leaps and turns, Shining Stars will help build self-confidence, respect for self and others, coordination of mind and body and much more! Register for more than one class time and get 20% off additional enrollments during the same session (Session I: Sept. 3–Nov. 2; Session II: Nov. 4–Dec. 5). #501106

Ages 3–4

M 9/9–10/28 Combo: 4:30–5:15 p.m. $96 SC

W 9/4–10/28 Combo: 4:30–5:15 p.m. $108 SC

S 9/7–11/2 Combo: 9–9:45 a.m. $84 SC

M 11/4–12/2 Combo: 4:30–5:15 p.m. $60 OTAC

W 11/6–12/4 Combo: 4:30–5:15 p.m. $48 OTAC

S 11/9–11/30 Combo: 9–9:45 a.m. $48 OTAC

Ages 5–9

M 9/9–10/28 Level 1 & 2 Combo (Ages 5–7): 5:30–6:30 p.m. $96 SC

T 9/3–10/29 Level 1 & 2 Combo: 4:30–5:30 p.m. $108 SC

TH 9/5–10/24 Level 2 Combo: 4:30–5:30 p.m. $96 SC

S 9/7–11/2 Level 1 & 2 Combo: 10–11 a.m. $84 SC

M 11/4–12/2 Level 1 & 2 Combo (Ages 5–7): 5:30–6:30 p.m. $60 OTAC

T 11/5–12/3 Level 1 & 2 Combo: 4:30–5:30 p.m. $60 OTAC

TH 11/7–12/5 Level 2 Combo: 4:30–5:30 p.m. $48 OTAC

S 11/9–11/30 Level 1 & 2 Combo: 10–11 a.m. $48 OTAC

Ages 6–12

T 9/3–10/29 Level 2 Acro: 5:30–6:30 p.m. $108 SC

W 9/4–10/30 Ballet (Ages 6–10): 5:30–6:15 p.m. $108 SC

TH 9/5–10/24 Level 1 & 2 Acro: 5:30–6:30 p.m. $96 SC

T 11/5–12/3 Level 2 Acro: 5:30–6:30 p.m.

OTAC W 11/6–12/4 Ballet (Ages 6–10): 5:30–6:15 p.m.

OTAC TH 11/7–12/5

Ages 10–18

9/3–10/29

11/5–12/3

DANCE CLASS LEVELS

Level 1: All new and beginner students.

Level 2: All students with at least one year of dance.

Level 3: Requires instructor approval. Open to students age 9 and older who have studied with Miss Tauna for at least three years.

Combo classes are tap, jazz, ballet and acrobatics.

AQUATICS

Group Swim Lessons

Lenexa offers American Red Cross Swim Lessons at a variety of skill levels (listed at right). Find a skillappropriate session that works for your schedule at Lenexa.com/GetActive.

T/TH 10/1–10/24 (Registration open 9/9) Evenings $55/members; $60 REC

S 10/12–11/2

(Registration open 9/9) Mornings

$27.50/members; $30 REC

T/TH 11/5–12/5 (Registration open 10/7) Evenings $55/members; $60 REC

S 11/16–12/14 (Registration open 10/7) Mornings

$27.50/members; $30 REC

Private and Semiprivate Lessons (All Ages)

Our swim instructors create a program to help each student reach their personalized swimming goals. Each lesson includes four 30-minute sessions. Semiprivate lessons are available for two students at a similar swimming level. Private lessons are $110 for Rec Center members; $120 for non-members. Semiprivate lessons are $75/student for members; $81/student for nonmembers. October: #504616. November: #504617

W 10/9–10/30 (Registration open 9/9) Evenings REC

SU 10/13–11/3 (Registration open 9/9) Mornings REC

M 10/14–11/4 (Registration open 9/9) Evenings REC

M 11/18–12/9 (Registration open 10/7) Evenings REC

W 11/13–12/11 (Registration open 10/7) Evenings REC

SU 11/17–12/15 (Registration open 10/7) Mornings REC

SWIM LESSON LEVELS

Parent and Child (Ages 6 months–3 years): Introduce techniques to build your child’s confidence in and around the water. Focus is to make water play familiar, not on survival skills. #504598

Toddler (Age 3): Water acclimation and introduction of basic skills through songs and games. #504599

Preschool 1 (Ages 3–5): Water acclimation and basic skills such as floating. #504600

Preschool 2 (Ages 3–5): Build comfort and submerge head. Begin skill development without support. #504600

Preschool 3 (Ages 3–5): Submerge head for bobs and enhance independent skills. Begin front crawl. #504600

Level 1 (Ages 5+): Focus on floating and front crawl. Introduce back crawl. #504601

Level 2 (Ages 5+): Focus on back crawl, elementary backstroke, treading and explore deep water. #504602

Level 3 (Ages 5+): Focus on front crawl with rotary breathing, different kick forms and kneeling dives. #504603

Level 4 (Ages 5+): Focus on breaststroke, butterfly stroke and standing dive. #504604

Level 5 (Ages 5+): Focus on stroke development and turns. #504605

Level 6 (Ages 5+): Focus on stroke technique and endurance. #504606

ADULT

Pictured: Swingin’ for a Scholarship Pickleball Tournament • Bill Harrison

ADULT DROP-IN ACTIVITIES

Advance registration is not required for these recurring activities. Schedule is subject to change; may be modified on Shawnee Mission School District days out.

Open Gym (Adult): Enjoy a game of basketball over your lunch break. Balls provided. $1

Pickleball (Community Center/Activity Center): $2.

Pickleball (Rec Center): See Lenexa.com/RecCenter for current schedule. $2; free for members.

Pingpong: All equipment provided. $1

Sports Play: Dedicated space for futsal, soccer and other sports. See Lenexa.com/RecCenter for current schedule. $2; free for members.

and

ENRICHMENT

History Lunch and Learn Series (Ages 16+)

Bring your lunch and hear stories that inspire and spark conversation. This new series will help you become an informed citizen and learn about unique topics and current events that impact our state. Registration required. This series is a partnership with Humanities Kansas, a nonprofit organization encouraging Kansans to draw on diverse histories, literatures and cultures to create connections with one another and strengthen Kansas communities and democracy. #5021210

Beyond Brown: Mexican Struggles for Equality Before and After Brown v. Board. This talk highlights the struggles by Mexican and Mexican American communities demanding equal protection under the law, focusing special attention on Kansas examples. Presented by Valerie Mendoza, historian and lecturer at Kansas City Community College.

The Man Behind Oz. This talk explores the unique appeal of “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” our first truly American fairy tale, and its legacy on our culture from speech, to music, to media. Presented by Chris Glasgow, curator at the Oz Museum and Columbian Theatre Foundation in Wamego.

T

SPORTS/FITNESS

Beginner Pickleball Clinic (Ages 18+)

Get in on the game and start playing with confidence. Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in America. In this clinic, learn rules; how to score, serve and volley; and strategies and techniques to help you get started. #502120

F 9/13 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. $20 REC

F 9/27

10/11

10/25

Beginner’s Pickleball Instructional League (Ages 18+)

Playing pickleball consistently allows you to progressively build your skills. Participants will play games and get instruction along the way from more advanced players. No partner necessary. #502168

W 11/6–12/11 5:30–6:30 p.m. $35 OTAC

The Beginner’s Battle (Ages 18+)

Test your pickleball play at this tournament for beginner players 2.9 and under who are new to tournament play. List your teammate when registering; teammates must register separately. Top three finishers in each division receive a medal. #302129

S 11/16 Men: 8:30 a.m.–1 p.m. $20 OTAC

S 11/16 Women: 8:30 a.m.–1 p.m. $20 OTAC

S 11/16 Mixed Doubles: 1–6 p.m. $20 OTAC

Coffee, Walk & Talk

Walk about two miles on local trails at a leisurely pace, then enjoy coffee together at a local coffee shop (location announced at walk). Registration not required. #503301

T September: Gary Haller Trail Barker Access 9 a.m. Free, plus cost of coffee

T October: Craig Crossing (91st and Woodland)

a.m. Free, plus cost of coffee

T November: Shawnee Mission Park (park in lot across from Shelter 8) 9 a.m. Free, plus cost of coffee

Karate (Ages 18+)

Students progress through the ranks in Shindo Jinen Ryu, a traditional Japanese karate style, by refining basic techniques, working on self-defense and learning competition-style kata (form). Upcoming sessions: Sept. 4–28, Oct. 2–26 and Oct. 20–Nov. 23. Attend unlimited classes per month for $65. Additional family members receive a 10% discount. Additional fees include uniform fee ($30) and belt test fee ($50). #501113

TH Ongoing 7:30–8:30 p.m. Fees above REC

S Ongoing 11 a.m.–noon Fees above REC

Shining Stars Dance — Adult Tap (Ages 18+)

Tap dancing is a lively and entertaining dance form that can help you increase strength, flexibility and coordination while lowering stress. All levels welcome. Wear comfortable attire. Register for more than one class time and receive 20% additional class enrollments. #502112

T 9/3–10/29 Senior/Adult Tap: 11:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m. $108 REC W 9/4–10/30

Tap: 6:30–7:30 p.m. $108 SC T 11/5–12/3 Senior/Adult Tap: 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. $60 OTAC W 11/6–12/4

Tap: 6:30–7:30 p.m. $48 OTAC

SPORTS/FITNESS

Stay Fit Small Group Training (Ages 18+)

Make fitness a priority. This small group training session is designed to help hold you accountable and help you create short- and long-term fitness goals. This class provides an all-inclusive program of resistance, cardio, core, flexibility and mobility work. #502013

T/TH 9/3–9/26 6–7 p.m. $125 REC

T/TH 10/1–10/24 6–7 p.m. $125 REC

T/TH 11/5–11/28 6–7 p.m. $125 REC

Swingin’ for a Scholarship Pickleball Tournament (Ages 18+)

Grab your paddles and bring your A-game! This tournament is fast-paced, friendly and for a good cause. Several skill levels and divisions available. Please list your teammate’s name and rating level when registering. Entry fees benefit the Lenexa Parks & Recreation Scholarship Program, which makes recreation memberships, programs and classes more affordable for Lenexa residents with a demonstrated financial need. #302140

F 9/20 Men’s 50+: 8:30 a.m.–1 p.m. $25 BDP

F 9/20 Women’s 50+: 8:30 a.m.–1 p.m. $25 BDP

F 9/20 Co-ed 50+: 1:30–5 p.m. $25 BDP

S 9/21 Men’s Open: 8:30 a.m.–1 p.m. $25 BDP

S 9/21 Women’s Open: 8:30 a.m.–1 p.m. $25 BDP

S 9/21 Co-ed Open: 1:30–5 p.m. $25 BDP

FREE OUTDOOR FITNESS CLASSES

Back to school also means getting back into routine. This September, let us help you Fall Back into Fitness with free Lenexa Rec Center Group X fitness classes outside on the civic campus. Try one or try them all. Figure out what type of fitness you enjoy or how a class may help you reach your goals.

Ages 16 years and up. Membership not required. Registration not required. Bring a yoga mat if you have one.

Monday, Sept. 23

20/20/10: 8:30 a.m.

Barre Fitness: 5:45 p.m.

Tuesday, Sept. 24

Forever Fit: 9:30 a.m.

Vinyasa Yoga/Restore: 6 p.m.

Wednesday, Sept. 25

Vinyasa Yoga: 9 a.m.

Movement and Balance: noon

Thursday, Sept. 26

Forever Fit: 10:30 a.m.

Cycle: 5:30 p.m.

Friday, Sept. 27

Bootcamp: 9 a.m.

Gentle Yoga: 10:30 a.m.

TRIPS

Lunch Bunch (Ages 50+)

Travel once a month to some of Kansas City’s finest restaurants from the best-known hot spots to the best-kept secrets. Cost of meal on your own. Meet at the restaurant at 11:15 a.m., or take transportation from the Senior Center (departs at 10:30 a.m.; $6 round-trip). Call 913.477.7134 to register. #503402

TH Viona’s Italian Bistro (Overland Park): 9/12 11:15 a.m.–1 p.m. Fees above

TH Talk of the Town (Overland Park): 10/10 11:15 a.m.–1 p.m. Fees above

TH Jack Stack (Lenexa): 11/14 11:15 a.m.–1 p.m. Fees above

New Theatre & Restaurant (Ages 50+)

Price includes a buffet lunch and the show. Meet at the New Theatre at 11 a.m., or reserve transportation for $5 and meet at the Senior Center at 10:30 a.m. Lunch is served at 11:45 a.m.; showtime is 1 p.m. #505201

“An Old-Fashioned Family Murder”: Sally Struthers (“All in the Family”) stars in this mystery about a junior homicide detective who stumbles upon the murder of a famed mystery writer. Trapped in a mansion with several suspects, he finds himself outmatched. His only hope in solving the case: his mystery-loving mother, who luckily is trapped in the mansion with him.

“Nunsense”: A hilarious comedy spoof about five nuns caught up in a series of misadventures. Starring Vicki Lewis (Beth in “NewsRadio”), this show features catchy songs and irreverent comedy.

W “An Old-Fashioned Family Murder”: 10/16 10:30 a.m.–3 p.m. $44 Register by 9/16

W “Nunsense”: 12/18 10:30 a.m.–3 p.m. $44 Register by 11/18

To register for

Pictured: Old Town Lenexa • Dennis Plumly

History Bus Tour of Lenexa (Ages 16+)

Learn about Lenexa’s fascinating past with beloved storyteller Octave Chanute (portrayed by Bill Nicks). This intimate, two-hour shuttle tour winds through Old Town and visits several parks, historic homes, buildings and development sites. Learn about Na-Nex-Se, Wild Bill Hickok and J.C. Nichols’ connections to Lenexa, and how spinach and barbecue influenced this town. Hosted in partnership with the Lenexa Historical Society. #505204

S 10/19 10:30 a.m.–12:45 p.m. $18.69 Register by 10/18

Sac & Fox Casino — Powhattan,

Kan. (Ages 21+)

Try your luck at both slots (over 600 machines) and gaming tables. Each participant receives $15 in free slot play; $25 if it is their first visit; $10 if it is your birthday month. Bring your government-issued ID. #205801

W 10/23 8:30 a.m.–5:10 p.m. $29 Register by 10/16

Holiday Lights Tour (Ages 8+)

Dash through Kansas City in a comfortable motorcoach to enjoy colorful lights and sing along the way. We’ll head to Longview Lake, dash around Country Club Plaza, take in Winter Magic with their lights set to music and immerse ourselves in the sights and sounds of the holiday season, Kansas City-style. #405203

W 12/4 4:30–8:45 p.m. $26 Register by 12/3

Grand O’ Opry (Ages 50+)

Get on down to the Grand O’ Opry – Kansas-style, that is, Ottawa, Kansas. Kick the dust off your cowboy/girl boots and don your bolo for some down-home, toe-tappin’ country music. Supper buffet at K&M BBQ before the country show. #305020

S 12/21 2:40–9:30 p.m. $103 Register by 12/14

SENIOR

SENIOR (55+) DROP-IN PROGRAMS FREE UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED/ASK ABOUT OUR PUNCH CARDS

Beginner Line Dance: Enjoy a light cardiovascular workout while dancing to a variety of music. No partner needed. Step sheets available. All levels welcome. $45/10-class card or $5/drop-in.

Bridge: no 2nd Wed. 50¢

NEW: Bunco: A group dice game. Beginners welcome. $45/10-class card or $5/drop-in.

Card and board games

Chair Yoga: Yoga using chair for support. $40/10-class card or $5/drop-in. 9:30–10:30 a.m.

Cribbage

Mahjong

Movie Mondays

Pinochle 12:30–3:30 p.m.

Senior Men’s Basketball: Shoot baskets or enjoy a pickup game. Balls provided. $1 10:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

Senior Pep Fitness: An upbeat exercise program. $35/10-class card or $4/drop-in. 9:30–10:30 a.m.

ENJOY A HOT MEAL

Johnson County Nutrition Services serves lunches in a community setting at the Lenexa Senior Center (moving later this fall to the Lenexa Old Town Activity Center). Meals are available on weekdays at 11:30 a.m. to people age 60+. Call 913.888.6141 between 9 and 10 a.m. the day before to reserve a meal. Suggested donation: $4.

Pictured: Senior Bingo • Bill Harrison

EDUCATION

How to Maximize Your Social Security (Ages 55+)

Learn key strategies on why, how and when to initiate your Social Security benefits from Pro Senior Advisors. #5031016

W 10/16 6:30–7:30 p.m. Free OTAC

Senior Wellness (Ages 50+)

Balance Demo: BioFit’s neuro fitness specialists provide a demo fitness class designed specially for seniors to improve balance, strength and coordination.

Diabetes: Lakeview Village of Lenexa will educate us about what foods are best for people with diabetes and share basic skills to help maintain a healthy weight.

Parkinson’s Disease: St. Croix Hospice presents the definition, progression, causes and treatments for Parkinson’s Disease, and when to involve hospice. #2031023

W Balance Demo: 9/18 10–11 a.m. Free

W Diabetes: 10/2 10–11 a.m. Free

W Parkinson’s Disease: 10/16 10–11 a.m. Free

Solving the Medicare Puzzle (Ages 55+)

Learn what’s covered under Medicare Parts A, B and D, how to supplement this coverage and timelines for enrollment. Learn what coverage is right for you and how to make sure you are properly enrolled. #5031003

T 9/10

ENRICHMENT

NEW: Archwell Health Activity Day (Ages 50+)

Join us for fun themed bingo events. #5034001

TH 9/5 12:30–1:30 p.m.

TH 10/17 12:30–1:30 p.m.

TH 11/7 12:30–1:30 p.m.

Hooked on Books (Ages 50+)

Join us each month to discuss a new book. Members choose the books and facilitate discussions. #503201

TH “Lessons in Chemistry,” Bonnie Garmus: 9/26 1–2 p.m.

TH “Ordinary Grace,” William Kent Kruger: 10/24 1–2 p.m. Free OTAC

TH “The Last Bookshop in London,” Madeline Martin: 11/21 1–2 p.m. Free OTAC

Mahjong Tournament (Ages 50+)

Lunch, beverages and afternoon snack provided. Prizes awarded to top three players. Prior gameplay knowledge required. If you have an extra game at home, please bring it in case it is needed. Register by Oct. 17 #2031011

TH 10/24 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. $14 OTAC

Senior Bingo (Ages 50+)

Play bingo and meet new friends. Sponsors provide individual prizes, including two blackout gifts. Registration is required for each session. Space is limited. #503900

T Ongoing 12:30–1:30 p.m. Free SC/OTAC

Senior Birthday Entertainment

(Ages 50+)

Enjoy free musical entertainment from Rick McClellan, and join the celebration! Optional meal available from Johnson County Nutrition — see details on page 38. #503401

10/9 12:15–1:15 p.m.

Senior Potluck: Tailgate Theme (Ages 55+)

Enjoy great food, fellowship and fun games! Bring a dish to share for 12–15 people. Drinks provided. #503402

9/21 noon–3 p.m.

NEW: Sock Hop (Ages 50+)

Relive the golden days with classic rock ‘n’ roll hits while dancing in your favorite ‘50s or ‘60s outfit. Entertainment by Cynthia Zeisman. #503400

SPORTS/FITNESS

Active Ager Strength Training (Ages 50+)

Studies show that strength training and regular exercises build up bone and muscle and counteract the weakness and frailty that usually come with aging. This small group setting ensures proper form and safety. #503112

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) (Ages 50+)

Set yourself up for success. Participants have a weekly private weigh-in and learn how to improve their eating habits with an eating plan, healthy recipes, contests and group support. To register, call 913.477.7100. #403109

17101 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

Lenexa, KS 66219

CITY OFFICIALS

Mayor

Julie Sayers

City Council Ward 1

Joe Karlin

Courtney Eiterich

City Council Ward 2

Bill Nicks

Mark Charlton

City Manager

Beccy Yocham

City Council Ward 3

Melanie Arroyo

Chelsea Williamson

City Council Ward 4

Craig Denny

Chris Herron

Lenexa is an equal housing community.

SEEN IN LENEXA

Tag your photo on social media with #SeeLenexa, and it could appear in TownTalk!

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