Volume 32, No. 7
July 2014
the
Best Times
INFORMING & SUPPORTING JOHNSON COUNTY’S 60+ ADULTS
Break a leg
Theatre in the Park performances span two generations Pages 10-11
www.jocogov.org /thebest times
Johnson County Manager’s Office 111 S. Cherry Street, Suite 3300 Olathe, KS 66061
Publication of Johnson County Government
Proper watering benefits plants! Bodies need water, too! Water exercising makes a splash!
Dog days of summer can take bite out of landscape. Page 8 When summer sizzles, dehydration poses risks. Page 12 Summer allows chance to pump it up in the pool. Page 25
www.jocogov.org
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Columbia MO Permit No.353
etc.
Horticulture Center’s Field Day set July 26 By Adele Wilcoxen
Cannas – This favorite plant is making a comeback in the garden with smaller varieties suitable for creating texture in the landscape or for dramatic containers. • Cutting garden – Grow your own flowers for the table with a cutting garden. See the array of flower colors and varieties to grow. Highlights – Vegetable Area • No till gardening – Reducing tillage in the garden is all the rage. See how minimal tillage can be used in your garden to reduce work and improve yields. • Tomato and pepper variety trials – Check out the new introductions and find out which varieties will make the cut in our quest for bigger yields and flavor. • Grafted tomatoes – This latest trend is breathing new life into heirloom tomatoes. • Backyard garden demonstration garden – Extension Master Gardener’s project demonstrates various methods of growing vegetables. Free soil tests Johnson County residents can bring their soil and get one free soil test per Johnson County address, complements of Johnson County Stormwater Management. A soil test determines the nutrients in the soil. It is important to know the nutrient levels to grow healthy plants. Go to www.johnson. ksu.edu/soiltest to learn how to take a soil sample. At least two cups of dry soil are needed for a proper test. How to get there The research center is located at 35230 West 135th Street, Olathe. The entrance is approximately nine miles west of Kansas Highway 7 on 135th Street. For information call 913-715-7000, or visit www. johnson.ksu.edu. •
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ome see the hottest, newest plants while enjoying cool classes in air conditioned comfort and icy cold water while wandering the field trials. Learn about the latest and greatest before it ever hits the garden centers. It’s all here at the K-State Research and Extension Horticulture Center’s Field Day from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 26. It’s your chance to peek behind the scenes, talk with the experts, and learn about the latest varieties and methods for achieving growing success. Admission is $5 per person, which includes ice cold bottled water, seminars, classes, and demonstrations. Lunch will be available for purchase during the event. Highlights – Flower Area • Annual flower trials – Companies from around the world submit their newest developments. The research trials show which flowers can withstand the local climate. The trials illustrate that not all varieties are created equal. Check out the container plantings as some annuals are only meant for use in pots. • Impatiens – Are you concerned about downy mildew? Come check out the research being conducted on alternatives plants for the landscape. Many new cultivars are being grown to see how they stand up to our climate. • Native plants, Liatris – Numerous varieties of this Kansas native have been planted.
Adele L. Wilcoxen, public information coordinator at Johnson County K-State Research and Extension, can be reached at 913-715-7000.
Day trip features Made in USA
Bingo games continue in July
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ours of local Harley-Davison and Hallmark Cards facilities are planned on Thursday, July 10, during a Made in the USA day trip being planned by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. Participants will visit one of two Harley-Davison motorcycle final assembly plants in the nation. An all-American lunch is planned at Jack Stack Barbeque. Next up is a behind-the-scenes look at the creativity that defines Hallmark. The trip will leave at 9 a.m. from Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch Road, Merriam, and return at approximately 4 p.m. The cost is $69 per person and includes lunch. For the factory tours, participants are required to wear shoes which are fully enclosed. Register early by calling the district’s Registration Department at 913-831-3359 or visiting the district's website at www.jcprd.com.
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hree themed bingo sessions are being offered in July by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. Sessions include: • “Dog Days” on July 9 at the Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty Street, Overland Park; • “Howdy Cowboys!” on July 15 at the New Century Fieldhouse, 551 New Century Parkway, near Gardner; and, • “Ice Cream Sundae” on July 24 at the Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood Dr. Each bingo session will begin at 1:30 p.m. and will feature about a dozen games of bingo, as well as food, prizes, and fun. The cost for each two-hour program is $5 per person for Johnson County residents or $6 for nonresidents. Advance registration is required by calling 913-831-3355. Participants can pay in advance or at the door.
www.jocogov.org /thebesttimes •
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PAIN RELIEF: Paid Advertisement
A NEW Approach Offered in Johnson County
By: Dr. William Thomas, D.C. ATTENTION!
If You Have Back Pain, Neck Pain, Neuropathy Or Other Pain That You Haven't Been Able to Get Rid Of, Then This May Be the Most Important Information You Ever Read...
If you live with pain, you’re not alone. Approximately 25% of adults in the United States (an incredible 115 million people!) deal with chronic pain. Worst of all, many back and neck pain sufferers just like you struggle to find lasting relief with physical therapy, chiropractic, acupuncture, surgery, medication or pain management alone. Why? Pain is a symptom of a deeper medical condition. Often, these symptoms are treated but the mechanical and physiological conditions causing the pain are not.
What is the Cause of Most Pain?
The cause of most pain is bone misalignment, which puts pressure on your nerves, and affects the way your body functions. Pain management treatment programs do not always treat the cause of your pain!
When you go to a doctor, you may receive medication. Medication only masks the pain, and can actually lead to more pain, because it is not repairing the cause of your pain. Surgery and injections do not always provide a long-term fix for the foundational problem either. Surgery can result in reduced mobility, stiffness, and continuing pain, also known as “failed-back syndrome.” Surgery is also associated with risks, and the outcome in many patients is unpredictable.
The cause of pain must be treated to provide long-term benefit and lasting pain relief for you!
So, How Can You Heal the Cause of Your Pain?
To actually heal the cause of pain, your treatment program must focus on fixing the cause of your pain and not the symptoms. To heal the pain, the biomechanics of your spine and rest of your body must be corrected. Specifically two therapies, especially when combined, can help heal the cause of pain. These two treatment modalities are decompression and laser therapy.
1. Decompression Therapy expands the intervertebral space to reduce disc bulges and pressure between the discs, facilitates oxygen and nutrient uptake, and improves disc metabolism and restoration. Decompression helps repair spinal degeneration and compression caused from years of sitting, poor posture, and trauma. In a recent independent study by Golvis and Grotke of 219 patients with herniated discs and degenerative disc disease, 86% who completed decompression therapy alone showed immediate improvement and resolution of their symptoms. 92% improved overall.
2. Deep Tissue Laser stimulates soft tissue and increases ATP production to promote healing. Laser therapy refers to the use of red-beam or near-infrared lasers as opposed to lasers employed in surgical and other medical procedures. Low-level laser therapy emits no heat, sound, or vibration. The direct effect results in photochemical reactions in soft-tissue cells which increases ATP production to promote faster healing of damaged tissues. Laser therapy also increases oxygenated blood flow to damaged areas to promote healing. Our Deep Tissue Laser technology therapy is FDA approved and proven safe by many
A New Way to Treat Pain.
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10787 Nall, STE 110, Overland Park, KS 66211
studies over the years.
Laser Therapy has been tested for 40 years, had over 2000 papers published on its effects, and it’s been show to aid in damaged tissue regeneration, decrease inflammation, relieve pain, and boost the immune system. Initial laser studies showed that patients who had laser therapy had 53% better improvement than those with placebo. Another study showed that patients who received laser therapy had less pain and more range of motion just days after treatment. Studies also show that the effects of laser therapy are magnified when combined with physical therapy, decompression, chiropractic manipulation, exercise and stretching.
We’ve been helping people with chronic pain for more than 12 years and now research shows that Decompression Therapy and Class IV Cold Laser Therapy are having a profound effect on patients suffering with chronic pain such as back pain, neck pain and Neuropathy.
What To Do Next
For a few days only, we’re running a special offer where you can find out if you are a candidate for decompression and cold laser therapy for only $39 (normally $257). What does this offer include? Everything we normally do in our New Patient Evaluation: • An in-depth consultation about your health and well-being where we will listen...really listen...to the details of your case.
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Exam, X-Rays (if needed) and TWO Treatments www.jocogov.org/thebesttimes •
• A complete neuromuscular examination.
• A full set of specialized x-rays (if needed) to determine if a spinal problem is contributing to your pain or symptoms... (NOTE: These would normally cost you at least $100).
• A thorough analysis of your exam and x-ray findings so we can start mapping out your plan to being pain free. • You’ll get to see everything first hand and find out if this amazing treatment will be your pain solution, like it has been for so many other patients.
• Plus two Decompression and Laser therapy sessions to see if we can help!
Oh, and if you’re not a candidate for therapy, we will tell you so! You don’t have to worry about us telling you that you need something you don’t! The offer is only good until July 31st.
To ensure patients receive personal attention and the best care possible, we only have room each month for 15 patients to go through the full treatment program and exam spots fill up fast!
Due to the demand for these exam spots, call today 913.815.8608 and we can get you scheduled for your consultation, exam and x-rays (if needed) as soon as there’s an opening. When you call, tell my receptionist that you’d like to come in for an exam so she can get you on the schedule and make sure you receive proper credit for this special offer.
renuvahealth.com
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• July 2014
“I would recommend Renuva to anyone.” ALICE C.
Volume 32, No. 7
the editor’s view
July 2014
Old pictures, new memories
the
Best Times
By Gerald Hay, editor The Best Times
THIS & T HAT The Best Times, a monthly publication of Johnson County Government, is mailed without charge to Johnson County residents who are 60 years of age and older. Subscriptions are available for $15 annually for those who do not qualify to receive it. If you are interested in receiving The Best Times, call 913-715-0430. Mission: The Best Times is a monthly magazine provided for all Johnson County residents age 60 and older, publishing articles that inform, challenge, support, entertain, and persuade. Contributions to support the mission of The Best Times should be made payable to The Best Times and mailed to the address below, or online at www.jocogov.org/thebesttimes.
Publishing of letters from readers, opinion columns, or advertising does not constitute agreement or endorsement by this magazine or Johnson County Government. Director of Public Affairs and Communications: Nancy Mays, 913-715-0730 email: nancy.mays@jocogov.org Editor: Gerald Hay, 913-715-0736 email: gerald.hay@jocogov.org Circulation & Advertising Sales: Che’rell Bilquist, 913-715-8920 email: cherell.bilquist@jocogov.org
111 S. Cherry Street, Suite 3300 Olathe, KS 66061 913-715-8920 800-766-3777 TDD DEADLINE FOR EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING COPY IS THE 8TH OF THE MONTH PRECEDING PUBLICATION
On the Cover
Tom O’Rourke is shown on stage at The Theatre in the Park complex with Jan, his wife of 44 years, left, and their daughter Laura Van Leeuwen. All three will be in the production on ‘Ragtime” next month. Cover story photos by Sarah Winston
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here’s an old saying in journalism: “A picture is worth a thousand words.” Old pictures can also create a thousand memories. That’s true especially when modern conveniences take a break allowing the opportunity to share a flashback in time with your grandchild. That was the case recently when the audio grew silent on the cable TV system at my home as my youngest teenaged granddaughter, a frequent visitor, was channel surfing. While she waited, she found an old family album tucked away on a nearby shelf and asked if I was in any of the black-and-white pictures. Looking at old pictures really took me back to the days where it all seemed so much simpler and that dorky kid was me. Smiling faces from one photo to the next, reflecting on how we used to be and look like. We’ve all really changed a lot haven’t we? Maybe good, maybe bad, but we’ve grown. Either way I’ll cherish all the memories. Some of my family members and friends think my devotion to being a grandpa is idiotic. They tell me to “get a life,” as if I haven’t already got one. Being needed by anyone when you’re older is a real treat. To be needed by the delightful creatures who are your grandchildren becoming young adults is a double treat. Looking at the old pictures seems to reflect what goes around comes around in life and in each generation. One old picture that caught her interest was of my one and only stage performance. It was in the third grade in a cast of veggies. I was the corn star with the equally corny line: “Corn on the cob, corn in the name will help you grow to be a man.” My face was in the middle of an ear of corn silhouette. There was no standing ovation. I think the Tony Award went to Kent Bailey, the beet. Another old picture shows me and my father, an Army veteran, with the heart tattoo with mom’s name he had done while in England during World War
II. We do look a lot alike, but the tattoo urge did not needle me. One of my stepdaughters has two small tattoos; one of which is her daughter’s name and birthdate. My grandson decided to have a tattoo of a clock with the time of his birth in celebration of his 19th birthday. It was a good choice, and makes me wonder about finally getting a tattoo, even at MY age, to bridge that gap in tattoo choices by my family members, past and present, from generation to generation. To tell the truth, the thought of getting a tattoo still leaves me with the jitters. It would have to be small and discrete - about two needle jags at most. We found pictures of me as a baby, luckily not posing on a bear skin rug or sitting on a chamber pot, and as a goofy looking kid with a goofiness that followed him in life. I didn’t have much hair back then, short on the sides, cut to the skin on top. History repeats itself in later life with hair today, gone tomorrow, now trying to get it to grow as long as possible on the sides, and absolutely no fertile ground for a crop of hair on top. Grandpa-dom isn’t bad even with giggles and snickers at looking at old pictures and responding to questions: “Is that really you?” and “Who’s that?” in talking about members of the family tree whose roots were planted long ago. It’s too bad that pictures in print have changed by modern technology with many postings now being made by selfies and on Facebook. I feel an unaccustomed joy with my grandchildren, a joy that I’ve not had in any other relationship — and I’m not the only one. No cowboy – not even John Wayne or Roy Rogers – was ever faster on the draw than a grandparent pulling a new picture of the grandkids out of a wallet or calling up albums on their smartphones. And fellow grandparents probably agree that the experience is astonishing as they grow older and their grandchildren grow up. The realization that life is just a string of people, generation after generation, going on forever, suddenly comes home as we seize opportunities to create and share memories reflective of our dreams, lifelong values, and the people we hold dear and love the most. Or, in the words of Bob Dylan, “If you want to keep your memories, you first have to live them.”
www.jocogov.org/thebesttimes •
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Johnson County Area Agency on Aging
AAA services address supportive care needs
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he mission of the Johnson County Area Agency on Aging (AAA) is to advocate for and assist older adults in maintaining their independence and dignity through community-based services. The AAA targets services to older adults with the greatest social and economic need and provides a variety of support services for caregivers. Information & Referral - The Aging Information Line at 913-7158861 is your starting point for locating resources such as in-home services, congregate and home-delivered meals, transportation, legal assistance, insurance, housing, and more. Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) - The Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) is a visible and trusted place where people can turn for information, assistance, and a single point of entry to public long-term support programs and benefits. An Aging & Accessibility Directory of services and local resources is also available online to address the needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities in Johnson County at www.jocogov.org/hsd. In-home Services - In-home services provide support for older adults who need services to maintain independent living. Nutrition Services - Nutrition Services provide hot noon meals at Neighborhood Centers and also provide volunteer-delivered hot lunches to homebound older adults. The CHAMPSS Program offers senior dining at select Hy-Vee locations. Our newest program offers seven frozen meals following hospital discharge through the Home Plate Nutrition Program. Geriatric Care Management - Geriatric care management focuses on assisting individuals age 60 and over to live independently
in the community. Caregiver Support - The AAA sponsors services to support nonpaid caregivers of frail older adults who need services to maintain independent living. CARE Nursing Home Pre-admission Screening - CARE stands for Client Assessment, Referral and Evaluation. Everyone seeking a permanent move to a Kansas nursing facility must be assessed by the CARE program. Legal Services - Seniors receive legal consultation and representation, education, and assistance with civil cases and access to public benefits, including issues such as housing, Social Security, Medicare/ Medicaid, powers-of-attorney, living wills, and consumer advocacy. Services are provided by Kansas Legal Services on a donation basis. Appointments can be scheduled at several locations throughout Johnson County. Senior Flexercise is a stretching, strengthening, and flexibility program offered at some senior neighborhood centers. Call 913-6426410 for more information. SHICK (Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas) is a program offering older Kansans an opportunity to talk with trained community volunteers about Medicare and other health insurance programs. The program also provides assistance with accessing prescription drugs at reduced costs. Information is available at 913-7158856 or toll free at (800) 860-5260. Volunteer Opportunities - The AAA offers many opportunities for volunteers to assist us in our mission of supporting health and independence for older adults in the county. Call our Volunteer Services line at 913-715-8859 for more information about our unique and flexible opportunities in many program areas.
Deadline nears for nominations
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he Johnson County Commission on Aging (COA) is seeking candidates for its annual Leadership in Aging Award, which honors individuals, groups, or organizations making outstanding contributions to the quality of life of older adults and their families in Johnson County. The COA will present the Leadership in Aging Award in the fall. To request a nomination form, call the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) at 913-715-8860. Nomination forms are also available on the Human Services website, www.jocogov.org/hsd. Nominations must be submitted by Friday, Aug. 1. Mail to: Patricia Burton, c/o Johnson County Area Agency on Aging 11811 S. Sunset Drive, Suite 1300, Olathe, KS 66061 or email to HSA-AAAWeb@jocogov.org The COA advises the AAA, advocating for senior adults in the county. Its members are appointed by the Johnson County Board of County Commissioners.
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Johnson County Area Agency on Aging
ADRC provides information and referrals
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f you or a loved one need information about the long-term care supports and services available in Kansas, the Aging and Disability Resource Center, or ADRC, is the place to go. ADRC is the single entry point for older adults and persons with disabilities to connect with local experts who can help them choose a long-term care option. The ADRC call center line is answered Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Or, you can leave a message after hours. The ADRC is at work for every Kansas community. For more information, call your local ADRC at 1-855-200-A-D-R-C. That’s 1-855-200-2372. Or, visit the website at www.KSADRC.org. The Johnson County Area Agency on Aging is your local host for the Aging & Disability Resource Center.
Caregiver Assistance News offers helpful info
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ublished monthly and distributed free of charge, the Johnson County Area Agency on Aging (AAA) provides Caregiver Assistance News, a newsletter featuring helpful articles on topics of particular interest to seniors and their caregivers. Readers can expect articles on managing caregiver stress, health and wellness, managing the effects of dementia, food and nutrition, and much more. Caregiver Assistance News is funded through Older Americans Act III-E Family Caregiver Support Funds, which makes possible distribution of this newsletter without charging subscription fees. The newsletter is available online. Johnson County caregivers may start receiving the newsletter at home by calling 913-715-8860; or current subscribers may read the newsletter online instead.
Kansas Legal Services To schedule an appointment with Kansas Legal Services, contact the center you wish to visit. Be sure to provide the name of the client, not the name of the person making the appointment. Funding for Kansas Legal Services for older adults (60+) is provided through the Older Americans Act and private contributions. Clients are not billed for services, but contributions are gratefully accepted. To apply for Kansas Legal Services, call 913-621-0200 or a central intake line at 800723-6953. For up-to-date schedules, including future dates and notices of sessions that are full, visit www.jocogov.org/hsd (click on “Area Agency on Aging on Aging” and then “Legal Services.” Sunset Drive Office Building
Matt Ross Community Center
Thursday, July 10 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 11811 S. Sunset Drive, Olathe 913-715-8860
Wednesday, July 16 9 a.m.-noon and 12:30-4 p.m. 8101 Marty Street, Overland Park 913-642-6410 www.jocogov.org/thebesttimes •
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Helping older adults to live in the community with independence and dignity. Information & Referral . . . . . . . . . . . 913-715-8861 Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 913-715-8856 Volunteer Services line . . . . . . . . . . 913-715-8859
Commission on Aging meetings will be held from 9-10 a.m. the second Wednesday of each month in Room 1070/1075, Sunset Drive Office Building, 11811 S. Sunset Drive, Olathe. Meetings will resume in August 2014. The meetings are always open to the public. For more information, call 913-715-8860 or 800-7663777 TDD. AAA programs are funded by the Older Americans Act and state funds through the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services, Johnson County government, agency matching funds, and individual participant donations. Johnson County government does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, or disability in employment or the provision of services.
Johnson County Area Agency on Aging
Clemme Rambo: COA member Eating is so brings valuable background much more fun with friends! By Gordon L. Davis
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hen Clemme Rambo was appointed by the Johnson County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) to the Commission on Aging (COA) early in 2014, she brought a wealth of background, personal experience, and education to her new advisory role. Rambo retired after 14 years of service as a staff member to the Alzheimer’s Association – Heart of America Chapter, prior to joining the COA. The COA is a voluntary group of persons appointed by the BOCC to provide information, guidance, advice, and support to the Johnson County Area Agency on Aging, and to serve as liaison to the county commissioners concerning the needs of older county residents and services to meet those needs. The COA is made up of 12 to 15 members appointed by the county commissioners. The COA meets from 9 to 10 a.m. the second Wednesday of each month (except July) in rooms 1070/1075 of the Sunset Drive Office Building, 11811 S. Sunset Drive, Olathe. The meetings are open to the public. For more information, call 913-715-8860. Rambo was inspired to work at the Alzheimer’s Association after her personal experience caring for her mother, who had Alzheimer’s disease. Prior to her work at the Heart of America chapter, she taught biology in schools. Rambo received a bachelor of science at Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Mo., and a master of science from Kansas State University in Manhattan.She continues her “journey” advocating for older adults, and specifically for persons with dementia, with her supportive work with the COA. Gordon L. Davis is an information specialist with the Johnson County Area Agency on Aging, hosts for the Kansas Aging and Disability Resource Center.
Six Senior Dining Sites to feature new look, new entrees, and more choices!
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tarting Tuesday, July 1, the Johnson County Nutrition Program will be offering a choice of entrée Monday – Friday at the six Neighborhood Centers, for the noon meal. Samples of new items may include meals such as: • Philly beef steak on hoagie bun or hot ham and cheese – YOUR CHOICE • Margarita chicken or baked fish with mango salsa – YOUR CHOICE Call the center you wish to attend the morning before to reserve your selected menu choice.Center locations are listed on the right. Grab a friend and join other seniors for a healthy meal at one of our convenient locations! www.jocogov.org/thebesttimes •
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Join old friends and make new ones by lunching at one of the six SENIOR DINING SITES available in Johnson County. The Nutrition Program of the Johnson County Area Agency on Aging, 913-715-8888, serves nutritious meals Monday through Friday at 11:30 a.m. for those 60 and older, and offers fellowship, recreation, and educational programs. The meals are provided through the Older Americans Act. A donation of $3.00 is requested. To reserve a meal, just call the center of your choice by 10:00 a.m. one day in advance. Menus for meals provided through the Nutrition Program are available at http:// hsa.jocogov.org/aging/nutrition.shtml. We hope to see you there soon! De Soto Neighborhood Center De Soto Community Center 32905 W. 84th St. • 913-585-1762 Gardner Neighborhood Center Gardner Community Center 128 E. Park • 913-856-3471 Lenexa Neighborhood Center Lenexa Senior Center 13425 Walnut • 913-888-6141 Merriam/Shawnee Neighborhood Center Merriam Community Center 5701 Merriam Drive • 913-677-2048 Overland Park Neighborhood Center Matt Ross Community Center 8101 Marty St. • 913-648-2949 Spring Hill Neighbors’ Place Spring Hill Civic Center 401 N. Madison • 913-592-3180 CHAMPSS Program Senior dining at select Hy-Vee’s 913-715-8894 Home Plate Nutrition Program Seven frozen meals following hospital discharge 913-715-8810
the extension connection
Water properly for healthier plants By Dennis Patton
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o you think it will be a hot, dry summer? Will it rain soon? Is it going to be a cold and snowy winter? Believe it or not these are common questions I get asked a lot. For some reason people think I have some magical ability to predict the weather. Heck, even the weather people cannot always tell with much accuracy what the weather will be in a few days, so how come people think a lowly horticulturist has a weather hotline? If only I had a magical crystal ball which I could gaze deeply into and know the upcoming patterns — is rain in the future, cold or snow? Just think, I could make millions and live a life of excess because everyone would want to know what the future holds in regards to weather. But since I don’t have any powers I am doomed to guess just like everyone else. Because I have to guess about potential rainfall and how wet or dry the summer will be I attempt to factor these possibilities into my planting plan. Watering the landscape takes time, uses a valuable resource and is expensive. As we start moving into our hottest and driest parts of the year, it is important that we have a plan in place so that
we are able to react to whatever weather patterns arrive. Learning to water wisely is one of the most difficult gardening tasks. Proper watering is compounded by the fact that the water is going below ground where one cannot see. It is difficult to determine if too much or too little has been applied. This year the amount of rainfall has been slightly below normal. But yet there has been no need to supplement water, except new plantings, and then only up to a point. In most years, we can get by without watering the lawn until the 4th of July, or later. Too much vs. too little Over-application of water not only wastes this resource, it can be harmful to the plants, as excess moisture damages the roots. In fact, the symptoms of too much water mimic drought stress, which often results in more water being applied. On the other hand, insufficient moisture inhibits plant growth, reducing flowers, size, fruit, and other desirable qualities. As a general rule of thumb, most landscape plants, including grass, flowers, and vegetables, need about one inch of water per week for optimum growth. One inch is the amount it takes to soak the soil to a depth of six to eight inches. www.jocogov.org/thebesttimes •
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The majority of roots that support the plant can be in this area. Another good rule of thumb about watering is to always water deeply and thoroughly, avoiding light frequent applications of moisture. Deep watering soaks the root system helping it grow deeper in the soil, which greatly improves drought stress, whereas light frequent applications of water encourages the roots to grow along the soil surface reducing drought stress. Shallow rooted plants often burn up in summer heat and dry conditions while deeper rooted plants are still able to thrive in cooler, moist soil. How much is one inch? How does one know how much water to apply to accomplish the goal of one inch? The best way is to measure the amount of water applied by your sprinkler system, whether inground or attached to the end of the garden hose. Place several straight sided cans around the sprinkler pattern and turn the hose on. Measure the amount of water after one to two hours, or more, to determine the amount of water being applied. After this bit of information is known, it helps determine how long to leave the water running in one location. For many sprinkler systems it may take Continued to next page
Summer advice: Water properly for healthier plants Continued from page 8
up to four hours to apply one inch of water if the pattern is covering a large area. This one inch of water should be applied in one to two applications per week. Doing so more often leads to the shallow root problems. It is also good to let the plants stress slightly between watering. This stress helps to toughen them up, encouraging the roots to look deeper for water. Becoming aware of proper watering techniques now will better prepare not only us, but also the plants for whatever
weather may lie ahead. As you know, we can never predict the weather for the long term in KC. But I can continue to dream about that crystal ball that will provide me knowledge about the weather. By the way, if I do find such an object you will need to talk to “my people.” But for now, you know where to find me, slaving away. Dennis Patton, horticulture agent at Johnson County’s K-State Research and Extension Office, can be reached at 913-715-7000 or dennis.patton@jocogov.org.
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• July 2014
cover story
Tom and Jan O’Rourke relax in the new dressing room at The Theatre in the Park complex with their daughter Laura Van Leeuwen, right. All three will be in the production of ‘Ragtime” next month.
Theatre in the Park becomes a family affair By Gerald Hay
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s a good sign, an idiom in theater has long been to wish a performer “good luck” in an ironic way. Well-wishers typically say “break a leg” to actors and musicians before they go on stage to perform. The expression reflects a theatrical superstition in which wishing a person “good luck” is considered bad luck. For the most part, Lady Luck has smiled on two generations of the O’Rourke family in Johnson County. They have been performing in productions at The Theatre in the Park (TTIP) for more than two decades. Luckily, no legs have been broken, but seven years ago, Tom O’Rourke’s luck ran out. “I broke a bone in my right foot while performing in Brigadoon,” he said with a laugh. O’Rourke was backstage when he simply took a misstep while walking between scenes, but like another show biz idiom – the show went on. He completed the performance despite a painful, swollen ankle and returned to the stage for the remaining shows. He is the patriarch of the O’Rourke clan that includes Jan, his wife and a longtime
accompanist for TTIP productions, and Laura Van Leeuwen, his oldest daughter, a former performer on stage and now musical director in the orchestra pit. All three will team up in the production of “Ragime” next month. Tom will perform as Admiral Peary; Jan will play the piano; Laura will be the vocal director/conductor. It’s not the first time the O’Rourkes have taken to the stage together. During “Beauty and the Beast” a few summers ago, the production cast included the threesome along with Laura’s husband Dave and a donation the family made to the scenery. “There was my husband, my daughter, and my son-in-law, and then I noticed. That’s my couch,” Jan said with a laugh. She has been an accompanist at TTIP performances for 26 years. Her first performance was on stage as a pianist in the Kit Kat Klub ensemble in “Cabaret” before becoming a regular pianist in the orchestra pit for scores of annual summer productions that followed. She received the Founder’s Award in 2002. After being a regular audience attendee at TTIP shows for many years, Tom began his on-stage career in 1996, appearing in the role of Welch in “Damn Yankees.” Since then he has appeared in 14 TTIP shows, includ-
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ing earning a Demmi Award nomination for his portrayal of John Hancock in “1776,” and was seen again in the 2013 production of “Damn Yankees.” He is now in his sixth year as a member of the TTIP Advisory Council. “He got tired of sitting on the grass,” Jan quipped. The couple, who celebrated their 44th wedding anniversary on June 20, lives in Overland Park. Their daughter, also a resident of Overland Park, began performing on TTIP stage as a flutist in “Chorus Line” while a student at Shawnee Mission South High School. Van Leeuwen made her debut as music director in the 2000 production of “Peter Pan.” “I’ve been doing theater since high school. It sort of runs in the family,” she said. Her father agreed. “It gets in your blood and you can’t get rid of it,” he added. While he’s an old shoe in past TTIP productions, O’Rourke said that doesn’t mean being a shoo-in in auditions for roles in annual performances. “I still get nervous,” he admitted. The upcoming production of “Ragtime” is directed by Mark Swezey, who was Laura’s music and theater teacher. He has taught at Continued to next page
cover story
Theatre in the Park becomes a family affair Continued from page 10 Shawnee Mission South for more than 25 years. The naming of director for each performance is done by Tim Bair, producing artistic director of TTIP. The directors, in turn, select the vocal director/conductor. Swezey picked Van Leeuwen, who then assembled the musicians to perform in “Ragtime.” “She was my first call,” she said referring to her mother as pianist. When she’s not in the orchestra pit, Van Leeuwen has followed in her former teacher’s footsteps. She is the choir director at Shawnee Mission West High School. “I inspire and instruct,” she said. Another daughter, Julie Kaul of Olathe, also has appeared in past TTIP productions, but but has taken a break from the stage with her marriage and the March 13th birth of identical twin daughters, Alexandra Mae and Megan Delaney. Both of their middle names were the middle names of their great-grandmothers. Julie and the rest of her family last appeared together at TTIP in “Beauty and the Beast” in 2005. They all have been involved in the same show twice since then at The White Theatre – “Crazy for You” in 2008 and “West Side Story” in 2006. The theatre is located at the Jewish Community Center, Overland Park. The family of four has been collectively involved in more than 65 productions at TTIP, which is now at its midway point in the 2014 summer season with three performances to go, including: • Honk! (rated G) from July 4-6 and July 9-12; and,
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer (also rated G) from July 18-20 and July 23-26. “Ragtime,” with three O’Rourke family members, ends the summer season. Performances will take place Aug. 1-3 and Aug. 6-9. The show is rated PG for adult themes and may not be suitable for children. TTIP is marking its 45th year at the current location, but live theatre performances in a Johnson County park began in 1970 on a stage comprised of a few boards and bricks near a pond in Antioch Park in Merriam. After only two seasons, the stage was moved to an area in Shawnee Mission Park. A permanent stage was dedicated in mid1980 at the current TTIP complex on 10 acres at Shawnee Mission Park. Over the years, additions and improvements were completed, including public restrooms, a set construction shop, a technical bunker, concession stand, a permanent box office, and an outdoor picnic Pavilion in 2010. Upgrades to the dressing rooms were finished and dedicated prior to the start of the current season. “We estimate that more than 1.8 million people have attended TTIP performances,” Bair said. Aside from growing in facility size and increasing popularity, the theatre program through the Johnson County Park and Recreation District has also changed with the times in its selection of offerings. In recent years, the annual scheduling of summer shows includes a blend of golden oldies and new stage productions. The mixture offers something for everyone, attracting both audiences from the My Fair Lady, Annie, and Sound of Music •
generation to younger audiences wanting to watch Les Miserables – School Edition, Cinderella, and Honk! Most productions are G or PG rated, but two years ago, the offering included Sweeney Todd, which was rated R. That rating, however, is a rarity. Over the years, Theatre in the Park has billed itself as family entertainment for all ages, and many families, like the O’Rourkes, have provided that entertainment on stage, in the orchestra pit, and behind the scenes. Most of the work – from start to finish in each performance – is done by volunteers. “Theatre in the Park is one of the best kept secrets in Kansas City,” Tom O’Rourke said. “It’s a great thing to do and to go and enjoy.” His wife agreed. “There are some wonderful shows for all ages and at very affordable prices,” she added. As the 2014 season heads into its curtain call in August, the blending of something old/ something new in selecting/scheduling TTIP performances has also encouraged a new generation of potential performers to audition for roles to showcase and nurture their talents under the stars. The newest branches in the O’Rourke family tree are prime candidates as another generation of stars are born when Alexandra Mae and Megan Delaney turn 7 years old, the minimum age of performing at TTIP. “They’re not quite ready yet,” grandmother Jan said with a smile. “But, they probably will be on stage as they get older. I think it might be in their genes.” Bair can’t wait until the 2021 season. “It would be great to have twins in the children’s chorus of the King and I,” he said.
Fast Facts on Entertainment under the Stars About The Theatre in the Park: Remaining performances on stage: • Honk! (July 4- 6 and July 9- 12) • The Adventures of Tom Sawyer (July 18-20 and July 23- 26) • Ragtime, (Aug. 1- 3 and Aug. 6- 9) Show time for all productions is 8:30 p.m.; the box office opens at 6:15 p.m., and the gates to the seating bowl open at 6:30 p.m. Ticket prices are adult admission $8, youth $6, and children three and under free (but require a ticket for entrance). Tickets may be purchased online at www.theatreinthepark.org or at the theatre box office the nights of performance. Reserved chairs are available for every performance for only $20, and can be reserved ahead of time by visiting the theatre’s website at http://www.theatreinthepark. The website also offers the opportunity to order a picnic-togo in advance for any future performance and up until 5 p.m. on the day of a performance. Cost is $8 for five items in menu options.
The Theatre in the Park is located in Shawnee Mission Park at 7710 Renner Road, in Shawnee. It is a program of the Johnson County Park & Recreation District. About Movies in the Park: Upcoming showings: • July 7 double feature of “Bolt” and the 1959 version of “The Shaggy Dog;” and, • July 22 triple feature of “Iron Man 1, 2, & 3.” Scheduling of movies will continue to the end of August. Movies are shown on a 40-foot screen on the theatre stage when musical productions are not scheduled. All films will begin at 8:45 p.m. The cost is $1 per person. More information is available at www.theatreinthepark.org/movies. Note: Renner Boulevard is now closed from 87th Street Parkway to 84th Street due to a road construction project. The Renner Boulevard entrances to Shawnee Mission Park and The Theatre in the Park is only accessible from 79th Street or Midland Drive.
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• July 2014
to your good health
By Crystal Futrell
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Got water?
s the summer heat starts to settle in, hydration becomes an important factor for all citizens, but most especially for older adults. As we age, our bodies’ relationship with water changes. We don’t store it as effectively as we once did. Our ability to use the water in our bodies to help cool us down is slower. And most intriguing of all, our sense of thirst weakens which can set many up for dehydration even when we feel we’ve had plenty to drink. Unfortunately, some of these factors intensify with the addition of chronic illnesses and certain medications. Plus, some older adults experience bladder control problems, and to compensate, may avoid drinking fluids to prevent embarrassing accidents. This is the reason why dehydration is one of the most frequent causes of hospitalization for older adults. And approximately half of those hospitalized for dehydration die within a year. So, why is water so important? • Water is the largest single substance in the human body (from 50 to 75 percent) and we can’t live without it. Every body cell, tissue, organ, and nearly every life-sustaining body process requires
water. • Water helps to control body temperature. • Perspiration keeps us cool in hot weather and protects the body against heat exhaustion. • Water carries nutrients to body cells and carries away waste. • Water promotes better digestion and intestinal function. • Water keeps mouth, nose, eyes, and skin moist. • Water ensures proper volume of blood. • Water keeps the urinary tract flushed out. This is important in reducing the risk of urinary tract infections. Urinary tract infections can be quite serious, even fatal, in an aging person. What can you do? • Make sure your intake of fluids is 48 to 64 ounces per day. That’s a minimum of six eight-ounce glasses per day. • In addition to water, (which is absorbed faster than any other beverage and is calorie free) consider these other sources of fluids: milk, soup, fruit and vegetable juice, gelatin (Jello), and decaffeinated drinks. • Because caffeine and alcohol act as diuretics in the body and increase water loss, beverages such as coffee, tea, liquor Continued to next page
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What are signs of dehydration? • The first sign of dehydration is usually thirst, which generally occurs when you have already experienced a one to two percent loss of body water. Many older people, however, have a diminished sense of thirst, and may be seriously dehydrated before they experience this warning. • Another easy to check, early sign of dehydration is the color of your urine. It should be clear or pale yellow. Darker urine may indicate you are not meeting your fluid needs. • Dry mouth, dry flushed skin (skin that doesn’t bounce back quickly when lightly pinched and released), headache, fatigue, and impaired physical performance. • Increased body temperature, increased but weak pulse rate, and rapid breathing. • Dizziness, increased weakness, and labored breathing. • Muscle spasms, swollen tongue, and delirium.
Got water as summer temperatures get hot? Continued from page 12 and some soft drinks will not contribute to your fluid intake. These should be consumed in moderation. • Have a glass of water or juice when you first get up in the morning. • Take a bottle of water with you when you travel anywhere; walking, on the bus, in a car, or in an air plane. • Drink water before, after, and during physical activity. • Give yourself “water breaks” throughout the day, instead of, or in addition to, coffee breaks. • Eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables a day because they have high water content. • Be especially careful about maintaining adequate fluid intake in the following situations: o With illness involving fever, diarrhea, nausea, and/or vomiting. o In very hot weather, especially if you have no air conditioning. Crystal Futrell, Johnson County Extension Agent in Family and Consumer Sciences, can be reached at 913-7157000 or crystal.futrell@jocogov.org.
Wanted: Master Gardeners need you!
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f you enjoy gardening, working with others and having fun while sharing your passion then the Extension Master Gardener program may be just the opportunity for you. Applications are now being accepted for the Johnson County K-State Research and Extension Master Gardener (EMG) 2015 training program. Application deadline is July 15. An informational meeting will take place from 1 to 3 p.m. Tuesday, July 1, at the Extension Office, 11811 S. Sunset Drive, Room 1060, Olathe. Projects and program guidelines will be outlined. You are encouraged to attend this meeting if you have questions about the EMG program or would like more information prior to completing your application. Only 30 applicants are accepted into the program. EMG volunteers get involved in a variety of projects including maintaining demonstration gardens, staffing a gardening hotline and giving presentations through the speakers’ bureau. Training sessions will begin Sept. 17 and run each Tuesday through Nov. 19, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. All classes will be conducted at the Extension Office. There is a $125 administration fee for those accepted into the class. Class members must be Johnson County residents. If you are interested in applying for the program, or would like more information, please contact Johnson County Extension at 913715-7000 or visit www.johnson.ksu.edu and click on the Master Gardener link for details.
njoy a freshly E cut lawn without
having to mow it. Leave the work and worry of taking care of a home behind and trade it in for getting more out of life. Living here can open up a world of possibilities. To learn how you can get more out of life, call (913) 780-9916.
All faiths or beliefs are welcome.
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• July 2014
grandparents as parents
Childhood transitions constantly change By Shirley Carson
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hen we are caring for our grandchildren, we find ourselves constantly transitioning as they grow and develop. For babies, transitioning with food (to pureed, finger foods, and even table foods) can be a fun and enjoyable experience. Babies learn about their environment by putting things in their mouths, and eating is an experiment to them. Expose your grandbaby to a wide range of textures and flavors, but be patient with this new process. Just because your grandchild dislikes a food you’ve offered once doesn’t mean you should abandon it. Try again the next day, or wait a few days – or even a few weeks – before trying again. Embrace the messiness. Let go of your need to clean and reach for the camera instead. You’ll be glad you did. When moving from a bottle to a cup, give your grandbaby time to explore. Be prepared to try several different types of sippy cups until he finds one he likes. If you are enjoying this experience, most likely your grandchild will, too. Sleep is one of the harder transitions, as it often directly affects you, as well. It is challenging, whether you are transitioning your grandchild from bassinet to crib, crib to toddler bed, two naps to one, or eliminating naps altogether. When transitioning to a new bed or sleeping area, formulate a plan and stick to it. Carry out your plan in a firm and consistent manner and give it a fair chance, which could
Cane Fu program teaches defense
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ane Fu, a self-defense program by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District will meet at 2 p.m. on Monday, July 7, at the Matt Ross Community Center, 7101 Marty Street, Overland Park. Participants will learn basic fitness moves which can strengthen their bodies and prepare it for self-defense. The cost for seven 50-minute sessions is $49 per person for Johnson County residents. More information is available at 913-831-3359.
mean a couple of weeks or longer. Be sure to establish and keep a bedtime routine for your grandchild. That will allow him to settle down and be ready to fall asleep. Remember that every child is different, and he will transition at his own pace. Be patient, and keep at it. I will never forget the day my grandson, William, learned to crawl out of his crib. He was 10-monthsold, and I put him back in his crib 27 times that day before he fell asleep for his nap. We were both exhausted! But he never climbed out again, and that experience helped when he transitioned to a big boy bed. Whatever the transition you find yourself in the midst of with your grandson or granddaughter, remember to celebrate the successes, even the small ones. Shirley Carson, Olathe, is a retired RN and great-grandmother. Since raising her three oldest grandchildren, her desire is to encourage others who are parenting their grandchildren.
T he right therapy in the right place.
To learn more about our rehab therapy services, call (913) 397-2900.
All faiths or beliefs are welcome.
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• July 2014
Volunteers needed for upcoming QUEST project
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he Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) define health literacy as “the degree to which the person has the ability to find, talk about, process, and understand basic health information and services to make good health decisions.” Being able to understand the information given to you by your doctor and other healthcare people can affect your ability to direct and take control of your own care.The CDC estimates that nine out of 10 adults have difficulty using everyday health information such as food labels on the back of food packages and medication labels. Studies have found that adults with
limited health literacy are more likely to suffer mistakes with their medication. People who struggle with literacy are more likely to visit emergency departments, be admitted in the hospital, and have higher rates of death. The Johnson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) is looking for volunteers over the age of 60 to take part in the QUEST Health Literacy education project. Signing up for this study will help JCDHE develop a best-practice approach to keep seniors living independently in the community longer. The goal is to increase a person’s skills in working with healthcare pro-
Animals Tales session focuses on dragonflies
Taco Night
Old friends are the best friends. Bob and Katie have enjoyed a weekly taco night with a group of friends for more than 30 years. While the group eventually moved away from tacos, they never moved away from each other. So when Bob and Katie were preparing for the next chapter in their lives, the previous chapters were always top of mind.
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he spring/summer season of Animals Tales Storytime sessions will conclude in July at the Johnson County Park and Recreation District's Ernie Miller Nature Center in Olathe. Animal Tales Storytime is for ages two to six. All children must be accompanied by an adult. The program will feature stories, songs, and surprises. Sessions begin at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday and include a “Dragonflies & Mudpies” program on July 9 and a “Who's at the Creek?” program on July 23. The cost per 30-minute session is $2 per person, including adults, payable at the event. Advance registrations are not necessary. The nature center is located at 909 North Kansas-7 Highway. For more information, call 913-764-7759.
viders and their ability to speak for their own healthcare needs. Participation in the study requires a one-time meeting which will introduce participants to the program and possibly include a short education session. Participants will receive a book to review as well as complete a pre and post evaluation. The total time requirement for the study is estimated at only one-to-two hours and those that finish the study will receive a free copy of the book as well as a $20 gift card. If you are interested in participating in the study please contact Shari Tedford R.N., senior wellness coordinator at 913-477-8337.
Bob and Katie found what they were looking for at Village Shalom – a place where they enjoy a care-free retirement lifestyle just a stone’s throw from friends and the best “taco spots” in town. Start a chapter with us. Call 913-266-8407 or visit VillageShalom.org. Honored to be woven into a million life stories over a hundred years.
Olathe, KS
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Applicants should contact Rosemary Bowden Location Safety Mananger. EOE
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• July 2014
Positive Aging Expo to feature author of ‘Lunch with Lucille’
Actual Spectrum Residents
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nnarose Ingarra-Milch, an expert on positive aging and author of “Lunch with Lucille,” will present the keynote address at the Positive Aging Expo on Aug. 14 at the Jewish Community Campus, 5801 West 115th Street, Overland Park. Her award-winning novel “Lunch with Lucille” offers an inspirational story with a life-affirming message: You are your best asset, at any age. The Positive Aging Expo begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 3 p.m. Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. The free event is geared to exposing the community to all the programs, services, activities, and resources for positive, purposeful aging and keeping one’s self happy, healthy, and active. Lunch will be available to purchase. The expo is being sponsored by Jewish Family Services of Greater Kansas City and co-sponsored by Catholic Charities of Kansas City-St. Joseph. The Best Times is the official media sponsor for the Positive Aging Expo. More information is available by calling 913-327-8239 or 816-659-8259, emailing dherbet@jfskc.org or mburgin@ ccharities.com, or visiting www.jfskc.org.
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PM Best Times Half July 2014
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• July 2014
Hearing set July 28 on proposed FY 2015 budget
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he Johnson County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) has received the proposed FY 2015 budget for Johnson County. To make up for a portion of the state of Kansas’ elimination of the Mortgage Registration and Collection Fee, the county manager’s proposed budget includes what would be the first mill levy increase since 2006. A second piece to the mill levy increase will fund most of the Sheriff ’s Office requests for 2015 with the inclusion of 20 new civilian positions, $1.4 million in additional overtime funding, and $500,000 in contractual services. The county manager’s proposed budget for next year totals approximately $874.0 million with estimated expenditures at slightly more than $695.3 million and $178.7 million in reserves to maintain the programs and services administered by Johnson County Government’s 32 departments, offices and agencies. The proposed budget draft includes a .814 mill levy increase. When added to the County’s current taxing levy of 23.247 mills, it would bring the mill levy to 24.061 mills. This increase translates into a monthly property tax increase of approximately $1.94 on an average $249,000 residential property. Even with this increase, Johnson County would still have the lowest mill levy
among 105 counties in Kansas. Part of the proposed mill levy increase seeks to cover the first year of losses the County will incur with the elimination of the Mortgage Registration and Collection Fee. “On the heels of the recession, during which the County cut $46 million in on-going expenditures, the state eliminated the Mortgage Registration and Collection Fee costing the County an additional $49 million dollars over the next five years. This loss creates a structural imbalance in our on-going budget and, therefore, needs to be addressed with a commensurate increase in property tax revenue,” County Manager Hannes Zacharias said. The proposed budget includes a Capital Improvement Program (CIP) totaling almost $111 million. Highlighted proposed projects under the CIP include: • Courthouse renovation that would fund improvements to courtroom layout, improving capacity, security and efficiency on the first floor. • Library Master Plan Phase II that would continue and complete the
Library Master Planning process begun in 2014, determining the future direction of the Johnson County Library system over the next 20 years. • Park Police Building/John Barkley Visitor Center that would replace the John Barkley Visitor Center and expand and renovate the existing Park Police Building at Shawnee Mission Park. What’s next: The BOCC is scheduled to finalize the County’s FY 2015 Budget by July 2 for legal publication on July 15. The public hearing on the new budget will occur at 7 p.m. Monday, July 28, in the Board’s Hearing Room located on the third floor of the Johnson County Administration Building, 111 South Cherry Street, in downtown Olathe. The BOCC is scheduled to adopt the budget resolution during its business session on Thursday, Aug. 14, beginning at 9:30 a.m. in the Hearing Room. According to state law, the County’s new budget must be approved and filed with the County Clerk by Aug. 25.
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Covenant Retirement Communities is a ministry of the Evangelical Covenant Church. Covenant Retirement Communities does not discriminate pursuant to the federal Fair Housing Act.
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• July 2014
library connection
Exhibition recalls the Dust Bowl Days By Marsha Bennett
Monday – Thursday 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. Friday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. he era following the Great Depression brought many Saturday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. weather woes to the Midwest. Sunday 1 – 5 p.m. The phrase “dirty thirties” was coined as a result The exhibit delves into the history and geography behind of the long dry spell and prevalent dust storms on the the Dust Bowl Days, and also provides a human element; prairie during this time. The Dust Bowl Days followed previthrough the words of the survivors themselves, we learn what ous decades of farming in the it was like to live through region that eroded the topsuch a difficult time. soil. Add to that the wind and Shawnee resident and dryness, and the dirt and dust retired storyteller for area blew with gusto from Canlibraries Jackie Rozine, ada to Texas. It would have recalls living in the Kansas certainly overshadowed some City, Kansas area as a child of our modern day air quality during the dust bowl days. issues. “My sister and I would Johnson County Library try to play outside, but is one 25 libraries across the our mouth and nose would country that will host the travbecome dry and full of eling exhibition Dust, Drought, dust. It tasted terrible.” she and Dreams Gone Dry. The recalled. “Every day we exhibition recalls a tragic pewould have to sweep the riod in American history – the front and back porches off drought and dust storms that because they had dirt piled wreaked havoc on the Great up.” Plains in the 1930s — and Jackie was about five explores its environmental and Left: Jackie Rozine, left, is shown with her sister as a child or six years old during this cultural consequences. during the Dust Bowl Days. Right: She is a retired storytelltime. She described how her The exhibit, which is orga- er for area libraries. parents had to roll up rugs nized by the American Library to put along the bottom of Association Public Programs the doors to keep the dirt out of the house. And because there Office, the Oklahoma State University Library and the Mount were no storm windows, they had to use towels around the Holyoke College Library, is on display from July 2 through window casings. Aug. 15 at the Central Resource Library, 9875 W. 87th Street, “There was little to be happy about, and the skies were Overland Park. always brown and hazy. You could not see the sun.” she said. The exhibition is free and open to the public during library hours: Continued on next page
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Special exhibit at library recalls Dust Bowl Days Continued from page 18
Food was hard to come by in those days too because it was so dry that crops failed and animals died. “There was a chicken coop on our property, but all the chickens suffocated and died. My sister and I held funerals under a big cottonwood tree for dozens and dozens of birds we would find dead in our yard. The tomatoes and green beans just did not grow, and grocers had little to offer.” The Library’s exhibit Dust, Drought, and Dreams Gone Dry is made possible by a major grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities. The Johnson County Museum is also collecting stories from people about their experiences in Johnson County during the Depression Era. If you have a story to share please contact Matt Gilligan, Curator of Interpretation at the Johnson County Museum at (913) 715-2551or matt.gilligan@ jocogov.org.
Library plans special events with exhibit
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he exhibit “Dust, Drought, and Dreams Gone Dry” will be accompanied by free library programs, including lectures, music, storytelling, and film screenings. Activities, which will take place at the Central Resource Library, Overland Park, include: • Monday, July 7 6:30 – 8 p.m. A Century of Change presented by Dr. John Herron. He opens the exhibition of Dust, Drought and Dream’s Gone Dry with an overview of the history of the Dust Bowl event in Johnson County and eastern Kansas. • Monday, July 14 from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Picturing the Dust Bowl, a slide presentation by Dr. Kate Meyer. She uses paintings, photographs, and prints of the Dust Bowl as a way to explore early 20th century American attitudes toward nature and the environment. • Saturday, July 19th at 10 - 11:30 a.m. Stories and songs from the Dust Bowl Days by storytellers Molly Postlewait and Rolland Love with music by Dave Sheldon and Harris Deutsch • Tuesday, Aug. 12 and Wednesday, Aug. 13 from 6:30 - 9 p.m. Screenings of The Dust Bowl A Film by Ken Burns followed by discussions of each episode by Dr. Jay Antle. The exhibition and programs are cosponsored by the Johnson County Museum and the Johnson County Library. For information and a schedule of events, visit www.jocolibrary.org or call 913-826-4600.
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• July 2014
to your health
Water exercise: Pump it up in the pool! By Lisa Taranto Butler
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ot summer months mean the pool is cool, but relaxing by the water may feel just a bit more deserved if you finish an awesome workout before lounging poolside. Exercising in water is a great way to stay in shape and boost self-confidence while being easy on the joints. Fitness experts specializing in the older population recommend water exercise because it is safe and efficient. Working out with water resistance increases strength and cardiovascular health, slows down age-related loss of muscle mass, and offers great psychological benefits for seniors. You don’t have to be an experienced exerciser to see the paybacks of a great water workout. Start with something as simple as leg lifts and arm circles or dive right in with sprints against a waist-high current. Getting great body benefits is as easy as taking off your tennis shoes and putting on your one piece. And there’s no one way to exercise in the water. Participants can swim laps, perform weighted exercises on their own, exercise with a trainer, or take group classes such as water aerobics. Even land lovers are trading gym shorts for swim caps to combine core strength and lengthening movements from techniques such as pilates, yoga, and tai chi all done in the pool. For all of the Sweaty Betties who enjoy their workouts in a class format, don’t discount the water for a great group session. “Aqua-for-Arthritis” isn’t the only water class to choose from anymore. Loyal land exercisers are getting winded in classes like water boot camp and aqua cardio blast. These programs offer a high intensity cardio and strengthening workout
using weights, circuit, and agility training against H2O resistance. Look for names like Aqua Piyo and Water Piyo on your gym’s schedule. These classes generally offer a combination of corrective exercises to tone muscles and improve posture, while aiding in flexibility and balance – all very beneficial to seniors. Make waves with some of these water workouts and kickstart your fitness program or change-up your regular routine. • Basic water fitness: These classes are designed for those who want a great workout using water gloves, noodles, resistance bands, and dumbbells. • Aqua jog or water walk: These unique classes use flotation devices or water belts to allow “jogging” in deeper water. • Aqua yoga: Utilizes basic yoga movements and adapts them to the water environment. Typically done in a warmer pool, aqua yoga strengthens and tones, while easing stress and renewing energy. • Aqua step: For all of you step lovers, this class takes a platform to the pool for cardio and resistance training. • Deep H2O: Make the water your personal trainer with this deep water interval. These workouts usually include abs and lower back. • Aqua mix: Various types of water exercise are incorporated into this all over body workout. While some exercisers feel that it might be easier to reach and maintain an appropriate training intensity in the gym rather than in the pool, the benefit of any workout depends on the motivation and energy applied to the exercise. Aquatics are among the few exercise classes where people of all ages and fitness levels can benefit from the same workout. Older aqua Continued to next page
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Water exercise: Splash for fitness Continued from page 20 exercisers tend to stay engaged in activities and those around them. Plus, they become more physically fit which helps them keep their independence. Is water exercise for you? Aqua exercise might be an ideal fit for you if you want a workout that addresses your whole body or have any obstacles that might prohibit you from doing traditional or land exercise. And if you are looking to modify your regular routine, then hitting the pool might be a great change of pace. Try a few options to find out what works for you. So, if another gym workout has your drowning in drudgery, add a little splash to your fitness routine. Take off your tennis shoes and put on your one-piece! Exercising in the water is safe, fun and TOUGH enough to have you seeing heart healthy results in no time. Go ahead. Jump in. The water’s FINE! Lisa Taranto Butler is triple-certified by the American Council on Exercise as a personal trainer, lifestyle, and weight management coach, and group fitness instructor. She is the owner of FitChix KC in Leawood.
JoCo Fair starts July 28
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he Johnson County Fair, with a theme of “Fur and Feathers,” will run from July 28 to Aug. 2 in Gardner. The county fairgrounds are located just north of downtown Gardner. Admission to the fairgrounds is free and includes entry into many events. The annual county fair, which has taken place in Gardner since 1940, features the usual wide variety of fun and family entertainment, including open youth rodeo, amateur flat track races, demolition derby, bull blast and barrel racing, carnival rides, livestock, and a wide assortment of exhibits and booths. Nightly entertainment will be featured, for free, on the Midway Stage. Admission tickets for main grandstand events may be purchased onsite. The annual Johnson County Fair Parade is Saturday (Aug. 2), beginning at 10:30 a.m. in downtown Gardner. Features include floats, riders on horseback, marching bands, clowns, and antique vehicles. For a detailed listing of events, schedules, fees and directions visit www.jocokansasfair.com or call the Fair Information Line at 913-856-8860, or the Johnson County K-State Research and Extension Office at 913-7157000, www.johnson.ksu.edu.
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Performing group offers Side by Side Experience By David Markham
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he Side By Side Experience, a 50 Plus vocal music and dance group, will be beginning a new 13-session program in early July and all interested parties are invited to join in and have fun with this group of easygoing performers. “We mostly want people in the group to enjoy performing and rehearsing,” said Group Leader Donna Bolen. “We are really like a big family. We sing together, laugh together, cry together, and pray together. Several of us have lost our mates that also sang with us, and the group makes it easier to get back to living. I love all of my people in the group; each one is special and a treasure.” Founded in 1992, the group meets weekly and now has 22 members, including four men. Three pianists take turns accompanying the singers and dancers. In all, they conduct about 48 rehearsals and 60 shows each year. “We perform at nursing homes, retirement homes, senior groups, churches, and about anywhere that wants us,” Bolen said. “We are popular with our audiences because we all go out into the audience and greet everyone. We bring a smile to our audiences and many tell us that we make their day.” Drawing on a catalog of 560 songs, the group changes themes monthly. Some themes are based on holidays or seasons, while others come from musical theater or various time periods. “We do a lot of golden oldies, hoping our audience will have wonderful memories and also be able to sing along with us,” Bolen said. “My people love 1950s music best and always sing it great the first time through.” Bolen has been the group’s leader since 2002 and was a singer with the group for about eight years prior to that.
The next class for the Side by Side Exeperience is scheduled July 11 at the Grace Methodist Church in Olathe. “I have been singing and involved in some way with music since I was six years old,” she said. “Music is a passion of mine; I love all kinds from classical to jazz. I also have done some acting and I am the emcee for the group adding a little comedy. I usually spend about 20 hours a week working on things for the group. I have a good ear and know the various voices in the group, so I can suggest songs that would be right for them.” Anyone with vocal or dance interests, regardless of skill level, is welcome to join the Side By Side Experience. The next class will meet at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, beginning July 11, at the Grace Methodist Church, 11485 Ridgeview Road, Olathe. The cost for 13 two-hour sessions is just $12 for Johnson County residents or $13 for nonresidents. More information is available by contacting the Johnson County Park and Recreation District’s 50 Plus Program at 913-826-3355. David Markham is a communications specialist with the Johnson County Park and Recreation District.
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inside story
His first love: Mustang keeps going at 50 By Bobbie Palagi Smith
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n April l964, 23-year-old Grant Martin saw the new Ford Mustang on display at the New York World’s Fair and fell in love. “I knew I had to have that car,” he said. When he returned home to Council Bluffs, Iowa, he bought a Mustang coupe in May (with a 260 V8 engine) for $2,795. Martin, born in Ottawa, Canada, grew up in Council Bluffs, but returned to Canada where he graduated in civil engineering from McGill University in Montreal. He drove the car for 4l consecutive years, recording more than 603,000 miles. In 2005, Martin restored the car except for the scratched front passenger windows. His wire-haired fox terrier, Brigadoon, (nicknamed “Doon”) acquired two months after he bought the Mustang, often traveled with him. “I left the windows untouched, because Doon scratched them when she saw a bear in Yellowstone Park in l966, and the windows remain as in memory of her. Although she’s been gone over 35 years now, I still think about her,” he said. In l977, the Mustang was stolen, and although it was recovered, Martin wasn’t notified by the local police for three weeks. “I hadn’t realized I was so attached to the Mustang. After the theft, I knew I had to hang on to it,” he said. The 50th birthday of the Mustang car was celebrated on April l7, 2014. Martin and his vehicle were featured in several articles, including The New York
Photo/Roy Moore, Lenexa
Grant Martin of Shawnee purchased his Mustang in 1964 for $2,795. Times and the automotive section of The Kansas City Star. He and another original Mustang owner, Werner Henze, were featured in the recent Star article. “There aren’t many of us original owners left,” Martin said. The two men think they are the only ones in the Kansas City area. The Mustang registry website (http://50th-anniversary-mustang.com/ is looking for other l964 through l973 original owners. Martin is a member of the Greater Kansas City Mustang Club http://mustangclubofgreaterkc. com/membership/).It has approximately 100 members. Martin drives the Mustang today only on weekends and on special occasions. It resides in a recently added garage. He works on it almost every weekend when he has time.
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He is a structural engineer for Black & Veatch. Martin is also interested in aviation, Olympic weight-lifting, World War II model airplane collecting, and world history. Martin and his wife, Nancy, live in Shawnee. Bobbie Palagi Smith is a retired paralegal and a freelance author who lives in Lenexa.
inside story
Evelyn VanKemseke:
Advocate for needy expands store as poverty rates climb
one-acre lot at 11110 W. 67th Street in Shawnee that soon was crammed full, too. t may surprise some Johnson Countians to learn that 6.8 VanKemske’s dedication to help the needy has not waned percent, about 37,400 residents of the county, are living with time. A year ago, she moved into a new building with below the poverty level based on household occupancies 5,500 square feet, twice the size of the Quik Trip, so she of $11,670 for an individual, $15,730 for a two-percould better accommodate her “clients” as she calls them. son household, $19,730 for a three-person and $23,850for a “We demolished the old Quik Trip and built a new buildfour-person household. ing on the same lot. We doubled the size of our store…and A year ago, the rate was 6.6 percent. Going back to 2008, doubled the number of people we’re serving,” VanKemseke, before the recession, the poverty rate was only 4.7 percent. It 84, said. “I’ll never retire. I have too much to do.” might also surprise some that 4.1 percent, 2,600 seniors over “Our new building is more comfortable and inviting. 65, are now living below the poverty level in Johnson County. People aren’t embarrassed “Actually, seniors, as to come in and ask for a whole, may be less apt help. The additional space to fall below the poverty allows us to display large level than their younger items like stoves, washers counterparts because of and dryers, refrigerators, Social Security and Medifurnishings needed to start care benefits,” said Karen a home.” Wulfkuhle, director of There are 23 agencies United Community Services sending homeless people to of Johnson County. VanKemseke’s agency for Other statistics show assistance. that living alone or with a “Our goal is to prevent non-family member inhomelessness. We give creases the risk of poverty them what they need to at every age. start a new life, to have a “Nearly two in three sehome,” she said. “We try to niors with below the poverfind them jobs. The recesty line income live alone or sion brought on the wave of with a non-family member,” joblessness.” Wulfkuhle said. “Senior Most of the clothing females living alone are she gives clients is donated more likely to be poor than by individuals and churchsenior males.” es. VanKemseke has an Statistics relating to Evelyn VanKemseke has been helping the needy since the 1950s alliance with 30 churches increasing poverty certainly and has expanded her store in Shawnee to better serve her in the county that make “clients.” come as no surprise to Evregular donations. She has elyn VanKemseke, who has a close relationship with been helping the county’s poor with her Shawnee Community many of the grocery stores, restaurants, and other food busiServices for more than a half-century. nesses in the county. “Ten years ago about 15,000 were living in poverty and “They would much rather give food to me than throw it now more than 30,000 are. Probably 25 percent of the people away in a landfill,” she said with a laugh. who come to us for help are 65 or older,” she said. Last month, her agency sponsored its annual golf tour“They need clothing and food like most. But they also nament that raised $8,300. Forty-four golfers donated $125 need financial help to pay the rent, utilities, and medicine. We to play in the tournament at Falcon Lake. Among the players give them money for those necessities. It’s not a loan; they were two officers from Metcalf Bank. aren’t expected to pay it back. Older people can’t. If young“The Metcalf Bank has been very good to us,” VanKemseer people find work and get back on their feet, they may pay ke said. some back.” She has lived most of her life in Shawnee. Her husband, Her crusade to help the needy began in the 1950s in a Amiel, died in 1986, after 42 years of marriage. They raised vacant house on the grounds of St. Joseph Catholic Church six children. which the family regularly attended. When the old house “Fortunately, our children were grown when he died. I’ve was no longer large enough to hold the clothing, shoes, and never needed anything,” she said. food she had gathered she moved to a room at the Shawnee Joe Henderson was a federal court reporter with The Kansas City Community Center. When her operation outgrew that location Star for 40 years and is now a freelance writer. He lives in Overland in 1990, she moved into a vacant Quik Trip building on a Park. By Joe Henderson
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kitchen table money talk
Titles + acronyms = confusion on qualifications By Gene Meyer
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ederal regulators were stunned last year to discover the nation’s financial advisers have come up with more than 50 specific titles or professional designations that all claim to show special expertise for addressing the financial affairs of older Americans. The regulators, at the new federal Consumer Financial Protection Bureau in Washington, D.C., were less surprised to find that some of those 50 designations didn’t mean much. Some require months or even years of almost college level study and commitments to continuing education to qualify. Others may only require a few hours online study or a weekend seminar in a hotel meeting room somewhere. Throw in some similar sounding titles, along with a few words, such as the word “advisor,” that often are legally less specific than they might sound, and things get confusing. It can be difficult, even for those in the business, to explain the difference between, say, a Certified Senior Consultant, who has trained maybe 30 hours for that title, and a Certified Senior Specialist, who has a completed academic level course work in retirement income and planning, income and estate tax work, annuities, Social Security, Medicaid, and other planning topics for seniors. “With such a bewildering array of titles and acronyms, it is no wonder that older Americans are confused and misled by these titles,” Richard Cordray, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, said in a statement released with the report. Fewer confusing titles seem be slathered onto business cards and marketing materials now than were five or 10 years ago. States adopt regulations Back then, “we had a lot of problems with agents who seemed to be
using the word ‘senior’ in a lot of designations that were largely made up,” said Jason Lapham, a rating examiner with the Kansas Insurance Department, which regulates the sale of annuities and other insurance products in the state. The problem began lessening after Kansas joined several other states in adopting regulations proposed by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners that prohibits financial services providers from using titles that are not granted by an organization that can legitimately award such designations. Regulators who police the markets in which stocks, bonds and other potential non-insurance investments are sold have similar rules, said Jeff Kruske, general counsel for the Kansas Securities Commission. Even so, the definitions of what is legitimate or not get fuzzy sometimes. Consequently, Kruske said, “We’re always going to find new ones as long as somebody is willing to pay $100 and get a plaque.” Broadly, what regulators watch for are the use of titles, designations or certifications that come from nonexistent groups or are self-conferred, and legitimate titles used to mislead investors. Adviser or advisor Sometimes that is a tough call to make. Take the words adviser or advisor, for example. When you see them on a business card or behind someone’s name, they may mean nothing. Anyone can call themselves an adviser, Kruske said. Or they may have very specific meanings if the person holding them is engaged in specific sales practices spelled out by regulators. So how can we ordinary consumers tell the difference? Asking questions is one of your first, best defenses. You already should be doing that when someone wants you to invest money with them anyway. But here you can ask questions such as what a title means, how hard it is or how long it takes to www.jocogov.org/thebesttimes •
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earn, and what holders are required to do to keep up with industry changes and to keep their titles current. Check online resources You can check online resources, too. FINRA, or the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, which is the self-policing arm of the nation’s securities dealers and the New York Stock Exchange, lists scores of the most frequently declared financial service designations on its website, www.finra.org. Click on Investors, then on the tools and calculators button at the top of the page to find them. FINRA lists the designation, its acronym, some basic information about how much work is needed to get and keep the title and who confers it. You also can find free, plain English versions of much of the same material on an independent website, www.paladinregistry.com. State regulators can also help. You can reach the Kansas Securities Commission at www.ksc.ks.gov or 1-800-232-9580. Or you can contact the Kansas Insurance Department at www.ksinurance.org or 1-800-432-2484. Gene Meyer, a Fairway resident, is a former staff reporter at The Wall Street Journal and The Kansas City Star.
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County loses last Tuskegee airman By George J. Dunmore
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s the last echoes of Taps rang out over Shawnee Mission Memory Gardens on a beautiful afternoon in April, family, friends and members of the Heart of America Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen of America said farewell to Major Harvey A. Bayless, USAF, (RET). The death of Bayless signaled the end of the Johnson County members of the Tuskegee Airmen. Bayless and his wife Mamie were long-time residents of Overland Park. His photo is among many saluting veterans in the United States Post Office located on Antioch Road. Drafted into the Army in World War II, Bayless was one of only four African-Americans to receive a field commission in World War II. He served as a communications officer in the 96th Air Service Group, known as the Tuskegee Airmen and provided field service to the 332nd Fighter Group in Italy. Honorably discharged in 1946, he was transferred to the Army Reserves. He was recalled to active duty during the Korean War and served as Research and Development Officer at Griffiss Air Force Base in New York. He also served as radar maintenance officer and staff communications officer in Hawaii. He was honorably re-
leased from active duty in June of 1953 and assigned to the Retired Reserves. A graduate of Syracuse University and the Industrial College of the Armed Forces, he worked in the federal government as a communications-electronics engineer. He was in the 1842 Electronic Engineering Group of the Air Force Communications Service for 37 years when he retired in 1979. He was awarded the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal for exceptional technical management. After retiring from the federal government in 1979, he served as a part-time technical consultant on the testing of communications-electronics systems. Bayless was dean of the Heart of America Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen where he served as historian and public speaker. He received a replica of the Congressional Gold Medal awarded to the Tuskegee Airman in ceremonies at the Truman Library in 2007. He also was active with the Military Officers’ Association of America (MOAA), the Air Force Association (AFA), and a Life Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers. In 2012 he was designated as an honored guest and awarded the Alan Posnar Founders Award at the annual Salute to Veterans Air Show in Columbia, Mo. George J. Dunmore, captain, retired, OHARNG, is the Public Relations Office for the Heart of America Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen.
Curtain rises for “Noses Off ” by Barn Players
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he next production by The Barn Players features “Noises Off,” beginning July 18 at 6219 Martway, Mission. It is Michael Frayn’s uproarious play-within-a-play that follows the off and on stage antics of a not so talented theatre touring company as they blunder through a side-splitting bedroom comedy with terrible dress rehearsals, crazy backstage antics and a disastrous performance of the show titled “Nothing On;” it’s a festival of delirium. The Barn Players production is directed by Bill Pelletier. It is rated PG-13. Performances will take place on Friday evenings on July 18 and 25 and Aug. 1 and on Saturday evenings on July 19 and 26 and Aug. 2. Evening performances start at 7:30 p.m. Sunday matinees, beginning at 2 p.m., are scheduled July 20 and 27 and Aug. 3. Tickets are $18 with discounts for seniors and students. Tickets are available on the theatre website at www.thebarnplayers.org, by calling 800-838-3006, or purchasing at the box office prior to each production; groups over 10, please call 913-432-9100. www.jocogov.org/thebesttimes •
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A SALUTE TO
JOHNSON COUNTY’S
VETERANS in cooperation with Americans Remembered
Jean LePage Overland Park WWII, Army, 30th Inf. Div., 120th Reg., 2nd lieutenant, rifle platoon leader, Battle of the Bulge, Combat Infantry Badge, Bronze Star, Silver Star. Al Obarski Overland Park WWII, Naval Air Corps, aviation machinist mate 3rd class, Air Rescue Station, served 1943-1946. Rich Brown Overland Park WWII, Army, corporal, 3rd Armored Division, Field Artillery, HQ Company, two years in Europe. John Brownlee Prairie Village WWII, Army Air Corps, C47 pilot, lst lieutenant, flew the Hump from India to China-63 missions, 10th Air Force, 319th Troop Carrier Command, Air Medal. Lafe Bauer, MD Mission (recently deceased) WWII, Army and Navy, helped set up 58th Evacuation Hospital at Tacoban, Philippines, scrub technician, lst lieutenant. Finished medical school when he returned home. Roy Shenkel Shawnee WW II, Army Air Corps, sergeant, B-17 waist gunner, shot down over Yugoslavia on fourth mission, POW for 13 months in two POW camps, Purple Heart. The Best Times features veterans each month. Some vets outside Johnson County are featured when their family members are Johnson County seniors. To suggest a vet’s name, including yours, contact Gary Swanson: call 913-744-8282 or email gswanson@kc.rr. com.
“as I see it ...”
Your Chairman
Rowing and sailing with changes in life By Michael Ashcraft Commissioner District 5
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’m not much of a sailor. I’ve never owned a boat. But, I do enjoy being on the water and experiencing the breeze, the sense of speed, and the vista you never see from shore. As I pondered writing for this edition of The Best Times, I wanted to talk about something we face every day but don’t always think about consciously. That is “change.” When I was a young fellow, my best friend’s father had a sail boat. It was what they called a “square-rigger.” This is an ancient form a sailing that the Greeks used a couple of thousand years ago. It’s basically a square piece of cloth on a pole with a couple of cross arms to hold it open. A simple, effective idea and my friend’s dad would take us out for a run, and boy could we go! The odd thing was though; the wind pretty much had to always be to our back. So the trip out was great fun until my friend and I had to row us back to the dock. After the first summer, I wasn’t as keen about sailing as I had been at first and resisted my friend’s invitation to go sailing most of the next year. I think my friend and his father got the message because by the beginning of the third season, my friend told me that his dad had a new
Chairman Ed Eilert Phone: 913-715-0500 Email Ed.Eilert@jocogov.org
sail boat and that we wouldn’t have to do any rowing. I was skeptical at first but eventually went out with them to find that he had traded in his old square sailed boat for one with a triangular shape. And, lo and behold, no more rowing. (Well, not as much anyway.) What is the point of my story? Well, my friend told me years later that he just hated to go sailing with his dad because he and his dad had to do so much rowing. You see, his dad just loved the square-rigger and didn’t want to give it up. He had virtually built that boat from the keel up and knew every seam and every blank. He had become so focused on the history of his square-rigger and the love he had put into restoring it that he’d lost sight of the joy the day-to-day adventure could bring to his son and himself. Years later my friend told me that he had hoped that I’d enjoy sailing as much as he did. But, he added, he was glad I’d shared with his father that the love his dad had for that boat and the rowing it required was not shared by all. The joy was the wind and the company. Not the rowing and a selected memory. Change is like that. Sometimes we get so comfortable with the history and the memory of something we fail to see the impact the rowing has on our lives and the lives of our loved ones.Take a look around this summer and see if you’re rowing more than you need to or, at least, see if your those who depend on you for sailing are enjoying the moment as much as they could.
Aquatic center to have food drive during July
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taff at the Roeland Park Aquatic Center will be conducting a food drive to benefit a local food pantry throughout the month of July. Each week of the month will have a different theme. For the week of July 1, the theme is canned food. For the week of July 6, the theme is bagged food. For the week of July 13, boxed food. For the week of July 20, the theme is toiletries. And for the week of July 27, the theme is peanut butter. All donated food items must be nonperishable, sealed, and within the expiration date. The Roeland Park Aquatic Center is located at 4843 Rosewood Dr., just east of the Roeland Park Community Center, and is owned by the city of Roeland Park and operated by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. For information on current happenings at the facility, call the pool hotline at 913-312-8838 or call the pool at 913-432-1377. www.jocogov.org/thebesttimes •
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Your Commissioners C. Edward Peterson 1st District Phone: 913-715-0431 Email Ed.Peterson@jocogov.org
Jim Allen 2nd District Phone: 913-715-0432 Email Jim.Allen@jocogov.org
Steve Klika 3rd District Phone: 913-715-0433 Email Steve.Klika@jocogov.org
Jason L. Osterhaus 4th District Phone: 913-715-0434 Email Jason.Osterhaus@jocogov.org
Michael Ashcraft 5th District Phone: 913-715-0435 Email
Michael.Ashcraft@jocogov.org
John Toplikar 6th District Phone: 913-715-0436 Email John.Toplikar@jocogov.org
The weekly public business sessions of the Johnson County Board of Commissioners begin at 9:30 a.m. on Thursdays in the Johnson County Administration Building, 111 S. Cherry Street, in downtown Olathe. Live coverage of the meetings is viewable each week over the Internet through the county’s main website at www.jocogov. org.
to your health
Beating the summer heat
By Shari Tedford
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ummer is a time for relaxing out in the sun, working in the garden, and enjoying the great outdoors. However, as we age, unlimited exposure to the sun can be dangerous. Aging makes one more susceptible to heat related illness such as heat exhaustion, heat stroke, heat cramps, and heat fatigue. According to a study done by the Centers for Disease Control, 40 percent of all heat-related deaths recorded from 1999-2003 were in people aged 65 years or older. Another study from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment showed the median age of people who died from heat related illness in 2006 was 69. Older adults are more affected by the heat for different reasons. Heat illness is characterized by dehydration and prolonged activity in a hot environment. Overheating may occur because as we age our ability to sweat decreases. Some medications can worsen this condition so it is important to talk with your pharmacist to find out the side effects and precautions for all your medicine. Dehydration can be more likely to occur in seniors because some do not feel thirsty or they limit how much they drink because the medications they are taking make them have to use the bathroom frequently. Having an impaired ability to sweat, along with dehydration will put one at higher risk for heat exhaustion or heat stroke. The best way to keep a heat related illness from getting in the way of your summer fun is prevention. When spending time outside, wear light weight, loose fitting, light-colored clothing. Make sure to use a sunscreen that is SPF 15 or more. Aim to be outside before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m. when the sun’s rays are not as powerful. Drinking eight cups of cool, nonalcoholic beverage a day is recommended whether you are physically active or not. Water is best! You can mix in your favorite juice or add citrus fruits for flavor. If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you
drink or has you on water pills, ask how much you should drink while the weather is hot. If you are affected by the heat due to certain illnesses try to avoid the sun. This might require you to exercise inside or walk in an air conditioned mall. Heat illness doesn’t just occur from being outside. Living conditions can also contribute if your home is too warm. Make sure where you live has an efficient way to cool you off when you come in from outside. Air-conditioning is the number one protective factor against heat-related illness and death. Taking a shower in cold water will keep you from being hot for a little while, but on the hottest days, air conditioning is still needed. During conditions of extreme heat, spend time in locations with air-conditioning such as shopping malls, public libraries, or public health sponsored heat-relief shelters in your area. It is important to pay attention to heat stress warning signs. Warning signs include feeling light headed, dizzy, tired, weak or confused. Decreased sweating and rapid heart rate may also be noticed. If you expect you or someone around you is suffering from heat issues get them immediately out of the sun and into an air conditioned place. Offer them fluids such as water, fruit or vegetable juice. Avoid caffeinated drinks or alcoholic beverages. Cool the person down by applying a cold damp cloth to his/her neck and wrists. Lastly, try to convince the person to lie down and rest. If the person’s condition doesn’t improve, call 911. Most importantly, remember to follow the advice about heat illness prevention so you may enjoy every warm day to the fullest!
Shari Tedford RN, is senior wellness coordinator at the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment. KU Health Education interns Holly Frye and Jon Crichton assisted with this article.
Libraries serve as cooling centers
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n cooperation with the Johnson County Library, the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment encourages citizens who need a place to cool down during hot days to visit one of 13 library branches. The library facilies are located in 12 cities of Johnson County. All of them will be available as cooling centers, when needed, during
normal business hours. Libraries offer many services in addition to a cool place to rest and restore. Citizens can read books, magazines and newspapers, or access the Internet. Library hours vary by location. Call 913-826-4600 to check hours of operation for your nearest library branch, or visit the Library website at www.jocolibrary.org.
“Providing Quality Care With A Personal Touch” • Home & Community Based Services • Home Health Aides & Homemakers • Financial Management Services (Self Direct) • Night Support • SRS Enrollment Assistance
• Wellness Monitoring Assistance with: Errands, Meal Preparation, Laundry, Housekeeping, Doctor Visits, Bills & Letters, Personal Care
1831 Minnesota Avenue, Kansas City, KS 66102
913-233-0160 • 913-233-0165 Fax • www.alliancehomehealth.org
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Serving Johnson, Leavenworth & Wyandotte counties.
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your July classifieds NEED SECRETARIAL SERVICES? CALL “FLYING FINGERS”, 913-432-0907. Since 1997: fast (80wpm), confidential, friendly! Novels, correspondence, legal documents, dictation, Internet research, bulk mailings, spread sheets. . .$15-$16 per hour.
Publishing of classified advertising does not constitute agreement or endorsement by this newspaper or Johnson County Government.
SERVICES PROVIDED Computer Training For Seniors SenCom (Senior Computer Users Group of KC) is offering three-hour computer workshops sponsored by Shawnee Parks and Recreation. Workshops are hands-on, senior paced,with plenty of help. They are held at 6535 Quivira. July’s offerings include: Computer Maintenance, Windows 8, Basic Word Processing and Advanced Word Processing. For more information or to register, call 913-631-5200. SenCom, a user’s group for seniors also offers monthly meetings including Q & A sessions and presentations on a topic related to computer use. For more information call Teresa at 913-206-7017, or visit us on the Web at www.kcsenior.net.
MG Home Repair and Improvement. All around the home repairs. Carpentry, lighting, plumbing, concrete repairs, deck and fence repair, power washing, staining and sealing, interior and exterior painting. Experienced, quality workmanship; senior discounts; free estimates; insured. Call Michael in Shawnee, 913-486-9040.
Complete Residential Services. Electrical, plumbing repairs, interior and exterior painting, driveway sealing and repair, expert textured ceiling or wall repair. Free estimates and references available. Call Rich at 913-522-8325.
Budget Tree Service, LLC. Trimmed, shaped, or removed. Shrubs shaped or removed. Fence rows cleaned. No job too small. Licensed, insured. 913-593-7386. Free estimates. Budgettreeservicekc.com.
CPR Computing. For all your computer needs. Virus and spyware removal, Windows repair and installation, upgrades, software and hardware training, new PC consultation, and networking. Call Rich Armstrong at 913-522-8325. Fast, friendly, and very affordable.
Johnson County Home Service Plumbing Co. Free service call for any plumbing in your home with this ad! Servicing Johnson County for over 50 years. JCHS is a division of Reddi Root’r Systems. Trust earned the old-fashioned way! Angie’s List Super Award winner. Member Better Business Bureau. www.jocoplumbing.com or 913-439-1700. Swalms Organizing Service. Reduce clutter and enjoy an organized home! Basement, attic, garage, shop, storage rooms—any room organized. Belongings sorted, boxed, and labeled. Items hauled for recycling, items donated, trash bagged. For before-and-after photos, please see www. swalmsorganizing.com. Over 20 years of organizing experience, insured. Call Tillar: 913-375-9115.
Adult painting classes now forming. Have fun while making new friends in a small creative painting environment designed for all skill levels. No prior experience necessary, contact Carole, at 913-8251307. Visit my website at caroleabla.com.
Nancy’s Cleaning. Residential house cleaning. Free estimates, 29 years of experience. Reliable and affordable. Serving Lenexa, Prairie Village and Overland Park areas. Call 913-515-1541.
Professional Window Washing. Residential/store fronts. Insured and bonded. FREE ESTIMATES. Over 40 year’s experience, contact GENE JACKSON, 913593-1495.
Computer Help Personalized. All questions answered! Please ask! Internet, email, printers, virus removal, lost files, slow computers, instruction. Even help with camera, phone, TV, more! Patience is our virtue. 913-558-8111.
Prescription Drug SAVINGS! Patient Advocacy Group helps those qualified to save on name brand drugs. I can help, if you have Medicare Part D, Obamacare or private insurance. Join us and save! Call Beth at 913-787-5917.
Mowing, yard cleanup, shrub, tree trimming, gutter cleanup, landscaping, and hauling. Free estimates. Senior citizen discounts. Octavian’s Lawn Care, 913-5303536, www.octavianslawncare.com.
Glen’s Installs and Handyman Service. 25 years as experienced owner/installer. No job too small. Windows, doors, bathroom and kitchen remodeling, electrical and plumbing repairs. Home 913-764-0520; cell phone 816-260-5024. References available. www. glensinstalls.com.
DEAN’S PRO PAINTING: 25 + years experience; insured, fast, clean, reliable, quality work; interior/exterior; residential/ commercial power-washing, wallpaper removal; drywall & plaster repair, faux work; texture matching; crown & trim work; custom colors. References available. Call Dean at 913-322-9089 or 913-944-3769.
Brick, Block and Stone all work guaranteed. I am insured and have forty year’s experience. Call Paul 913-302-7297 Day or 913-321-0431 Night.
Ironing and Alterations. Please call Domi at 913-642-2421. Best on the Block Interior and Exterior Painting. Licensed and insured. For free estimate, call Troy at 913-424-6346.
at your service
at your service
Classified ads must be submitted in writing and with payment by the eighth day of the month for the following month’s issue. The rate is $30 for up to 20 words and $.55 per additional word. (Minimum, $30).
Help From A Friend
To have your business card included in this advertising section, business cards must be submitted by the eighth day of the month for the following month’s issue. To either place a classified ad or insertion of your business card: Email: TheBestTimes@jocogov.org Visit: www.jocogov.org/thebesttimes Call: 913-715-8920
Helping Older Adults with the Most Common Improvement Maintenance & Repair Services 25% - 50% Less Than Typical Service Providers
Mowing Pruning Organizing Seeding Gutter Clean Trimming House Clean Fertilizing Leaf Cleanup Shrub Removal Weed Control Window Clean Planting Tree Removal Moving Help Aerating Weeding Mulch / Edging Painting Verticutting Snow Removal Topsoil / Sod Lawn Patching Junk Removal Gift Cards Available
www.jocogov.org/thebesttimes •
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913.980.8686
HelpFromAFriend.com
your July classifieds SERVICES PROVIDED AM/PM Technology DAY/NIGHT PC, Apple and Android Service (including computers, tablets and smart phones.) We come to your home. Same low rates and senior discounts for all services. 913-385-2676. For 19 years we have been the #1 resource for helping seniors in Johnson County to install new PCs, get rid of viruses, resolve e-mail issues, repair equipment, set up wireless networks and handle related issues. To learn more, schedule a visit or ask for free advice, call Joe, John, Doug or Patrick at 913-3852676. “We speak English.” At Your Service Kansas City! We provide customized home services for seniors; anything from housekeeping to lawn mowing to transportation. Trustworthy. Dependable. Licensed & Insured. Affordable Rates. Call Cindy at 816-863-6211 for a free in home consultation. Cleaning “Maid Simple.” Residential house cleaning. Reasonable and dependable. Johnson County area. Call Denise Carter. 913-563-5883. Free estimates. Lawn Mowing and Landscape. Honest, Reliable and Reasonable. 25 Years exp. of golf grouns management Call Kurt at Kaw Lawns, 816-896-7354. Doggie Day Care and Boarding at All Things Dogs KC. Pets are not caged and they stay in a home atmosphere that’s on two acres fenced. Call Kim at 816-719-1339.
HANDYMAN PRO, LLC - Repair, Remodel, Renew. Bathrooms, painting, decks, yard work, sheetrock repair, grab bars, ramp building. Call Tom for free estimate. 913-4887320. Handymanprokc.com. AFFORDABLE IN-HOME CARE. Screened & Bonded Caregivers. Transportation. Bathing/ Toileting Assistance. Light Housekeeping. Meal Preparation. Alzheimer’s Specialists & More! Call 913-747-4246. Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management and transportation to the elderly and disabled in their home, assisted living or skilled nursing facility. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at 913-341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Debbie or Gary. Turning 65 and still working? You have choices when it comes to MEDICARE. Find out which plan is right for you before and after retirement. We compare the options to save you time and research. Call for a no obligation appointment: Susan Joski, licensed, independent broker 913-402-8181 (never a fee and no investment sales!) WRITING/EDITING SERVICES: Your life story is unique. Your book lies before you. Let me help you write your story for family, friends, and associates. I have a degree in journalism and 30 years of writing experience. Together we can make it happen. I’ve made it happen for others. Contact David W. Swafford at 816-229-2042 or dwsnarratives@gmail.com.
AVAIL ABLE HOUSING Time flies! Start planning now to get more than you pay for in an affordable, faith-friendly home. Now accepting applications for our waiting list: Olathe Towers and College Way Village. 913-782-6131. Equal Housing Opportunity. All faiths or beliefs welcome.
ITEMS WANTED $ $ $ WANTED: ESTATE SALE TREASURES $ $ $. Smart folks call me before they have an estate sale. I specialize in the high end $. Sterling silver flatware. Pre 1950 paintings signed by listed artists. Mid century modern lighting and furniture. Antique gold pocket watches. Valuable musical instruments. Lifetime collections of the rare and unusual. Pre 1800 maps. Randall knives. Rolex watches. Class rings. Pre-1900 foreign stamps. Coin collections. Leica cameras. This is a partial list. Cash paid. Thank you! 913-522-9408 [We can meet at your home or nearby coffee shop]. RESIDENTIAL LIFTS. Buy, sell, trade. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts, elevators. Call Silver Cross at 913-327-5557.
ITEMS FOR SALE For Sale At Resurrection Cemetery two easements in mausoleum. Today’s selling price is $12,000 offering this space $9,000. Contact A Kelly 913-649-9691. Two Floral Hills Cemetery Lots , 7000 Blue Ridge Blvd. Side by Side “Peaceful Setting” $3,200.00 includes transfer Fee.....913-8519713.
your July calendar All classes and events require registration unless otherwise indicated.
July 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 Social Tea Dance. 1:30 p.m. Roeland Park. $5. Singles and couples welcome.
July 1 Watercolor Painting. 1:30 p.m. Matt Ross. $79/$87 for eight/2 ½ hour sessions. Memoir Writing Group. 2 p.m. Corinth Library, 8100 Mission Road, Prairie Village. Registration is not necessary. Tuesday Tunes with Betse Ellis. 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Olathe Public Library. Acoustic jam session with a founding member of The Wilders. 50 & Beyond Potluck. Noon-2 p.m. Sylvester Powell. Register and bring your favorite food dish to share with the rest of the group. Ages 50 & Older.
July 2 Selling Online with eBay®. 1:30 p.m. Matt Ross. $26/$29. One/three hour session. Adventure Walk – Powell Gardens. Leave 8:30 a.m. from Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch Road, Merriam. $21. Bring a sack lunch for a group picnic. Creative Writing Group. 6:30–7:45 p.m. Indian Creek.
July 3 Senior Cinema – “Saving Mr. Banks.” 12:15 p.m. Lenexa Senior Center. Enjoy free popcorn, beverage and a movie!
July 4
Patriotic Band Concert - In Celebration of 9th Annual Flags for Freedom. 12:30 p.m. Merriam Marketplace, 5740 Merriam Drive.
July 7
Painter’s Palette. 9:30 a.m. Tomahawk Ridge. $80/$88. Eight/2 ½ hour classes. Cane Fu. 2 p.m. Matt Ross. $49/$54. Seven/50 minute sessions.
Pen to Paper Writers Group. 1:30 p.m. Matt Ross. $52/$57. Seven/90 minute classes.
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50 & Beyond Matinee: “Philomena.” 12:30 p.m. Sylvester Powell. $1; free for SPJCC members. Free popcorn, coffee, and water are provided during the movie.
July 9 & 10
July 9
Tai Chi for Arthritis. 10 a.m. Johnson County Sunset Drive Building, 11811 S. Sunset Drive, Olathe. $3. One/50 minute session.
www.jocogov.org/thebesttimes •
Computers: What’s a browser? 10 a.m. Grace United Methodist Church, 11485 S. Ridgeview Road, Olathe. $25.
Dog Days Bingo. 1:30 p.m. Matt Ross. $5 per person for 12 games.
Beginning Line Dance. 8 p.m. Matt Ross. $49/$54. Seven/50 minute lessons.
July 8
Fish Tales. 2:30–3:30 p.m. Uncle Buck’s at Bass Pro, 12051 Bass Pro Drive, Olathe. Reservation requested by calling 913-831-3888. A reminiscence-and-discussion group for individuals with earlier stage dementia.
AARP Smart Driver Course. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. KU Medwest, 7405 Renner Road, Shawnee. $15 AARP member, $20 non-member. 913-588-1227.
Intermediate Ballroom Dancing. 7 p.m. Matt Ross. $49/$54. Seven/50 minute lessons.
Tai Chi Chen Style. 9:30 a.m. Park Meadows, 5901 W.
107th Street, Overland Park. 10 Punch Exercise Card $45/$49. 20 Punch Exercise Card $90/$99.
Science Fiction Reading Group. 6:30–7:45 p.m. Indian Creek. Birthdays for July. Lunch @ 11:30 a.m. ($3 donation). Lenexa Senior Center. Entertainment by Helen Gabbert and her comedic rendition of “Red Hot Mama” will follow @12:15 p.m.
• July 2014
your June calendar AARP Smart Driver Course. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Park Meadows Senior Living, 5901 W. 107th Street, Overland Park. $15 AARP member, $20 non-member. 913-901-8200.
July 10 & 24
Bereavement Support Group. 4:30–6 p.m. Alzheimer’s Association Education Center, 3856 W. 75th Street, Prairie Village. Reservation is requested by calling 913831-3888.
July 10
Barbershop Harmonizers. 2 p.m. Matt Ross. Sixteen/2 hour sessions. $15. Red, White and Blue Bingo. 1-3 p.m. Irene B. French. $3/ three cards. Lunch Bunch. 11:15 a.m. “The Basha” in Overland Park. Cost of your meal, plus $8 per person if transportation is needed. Transportation departs from the Lenexa Senior Center at 10:30 a.m.
July 22 & 23
July 15
July 10 & 11
Computers: “Email The New Pony Express.” 10 a.m. Grace United Methodist Church. $25.
July 22
Howdy Cowboys Bingo. 1:30 p.m. New Century Fieldhouse. $5 for 12 games. Made in Topeka day trip. Depart at 6:30 a.m. from Sylvester Powell; leave from Topeka at 4 P.m. $60 per person includes guides/tours, transportation, and food.
iPad® Basics. 1:30 p.m. Matt Ross. $27/$30. One/2 hour class.
Grandparent and Grandchild Watercolor Workshops. 1:30 p.m. Matt Ross. $15/$16 for one grandparent and one grandchild. Additional Grandchildren $7. One/one hour session.
AARP Smart Driver Course. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Silvercrest at Deer Creek, 13060 Metcalf Avenue, Overland Park. $15 AARP member, $20 non-member. 913-681-1101.
Wednesday Walk: Berry Picking at the Berry Patch in Missouri. Leave 9 a.m. from Antioch Park. $18. Bring a sack lunch.
Pickleball Lessons. 9 a.m. Matt Ross. $7/$8. One/2 hour session.
July 11
Olathe Public Library Book Munch for Lunch Bunch. 11:30 a.m. Sunflower Café, Johnson County Administration Building, 111 S. Cherry, downtown Olathe.
Performing Vocal Group: Side by Side. 12:30 p.m. Grace Methodist Church. $12. Tap Dance Lessons. 5:45 p.m. Mill Creek Activity Center, 6518 Vista Drive, Shawnee. $31. China Painting. 9 a.m. Roeland Park. $61/$67. Four/three hour classes.
July 12
Mature Tales. 3 p.m. Central Resource Library, 9875 W. 87th Street, Overland Park. KC Fringe Festival storytellers John Anderson (aka Brother John) and Gary Kuntz join forces with the playwrights of Potluck Productions for an afternoon of sharing tales.
July 14
Take Charge, Feel Better! 8 a.m. Matt Ross. Free event. Six/2 ½ classes on learning how to manage ongoing health conditions. An Edible Discussion. 7 p.m. Corinth Library. Potluck and discussion on cookbooks, food, and cooking. July’s theme will be frozen treats with a special guest speaker from Foo’s Fabulous Frozen Custard. Registration is not necessary. Microsoft Word 2007. 6:30 p.m. Indian Creek.
50 & Beyond Matinee: “At Middleton.” 12:30 p.m. Sylvester Powell. $1; free or SPJCC members.
July 23
July 16
Grandma’s Yellow Pie Plate. 1:30 p.m. Shawnee Library, 13811 Johnson Dr. Register online at www.jocolibrary.org or call 913-826-4600.
Painter’s Palette. 9:30 a.m. Tomahawk Ridge. $80/$88. Eight/2 ½ hour classes.
Computers: “eBay, Amazon, PayPal- How to pay on line.” 10 a.m. Grace United Methodist Church. $25.
Intro to Facebook. 1:30 p.m. Matt Ross. $33/$36. One/ three hour session.
July 11- 13
Julybration Book Sale. July 11: 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.; July 12: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; July 13: 1-3 p.m. Indian Creek.
AARP Smart Driver Course. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Matt Ross. $15 AARP member, $20 non-member. 913-642-6410.
Genealogy 101. 2 p.m. Roeland Park. $23/$25. Two/90 minute classes.
July 17
Tim Murphy Art Gallery Opening Night Reception. 7-8:30 p.m. Irene B. French. “Places to Go, People to See”- mixed media. Book Party. 2 p.m. Antioch Library, 8700 Shawnee Mission Parkway, Merriam.
July 23 & 24
July 24
Jam Session. 1-2 p.m. Alzheimer’s Association Education Center. Reservation is requested by calling 913-831-3888. Hooked on Books Club. 1 p.m. Lenexa Community Center. Ice Cream Sundae Bingo. 1:30 p.m. Roeland Park. $5/$6 nonresidents for 12 games.
July 25 Walks: Sunset Walk Kaw River Trail. Leave 4:30 p.m. from Antioch Park. $24.
July 26 Book Sale at the Farmer’s Market. Starts at 8 a.m. Black Bob Park, Field 1, 14500 W. 151st Street, Olathe.
July 18
299 a.m.-3 & 30p.m. Towne Center, AARP Smart DriverJuly Course. 4400 W. 115st Street, Leawood. $15 AARP member, $20 non-member. 913-491-3681.
July 19
Computers: “Internet safety.” 10 a.m. Grace United Methodist Church. $25.
Pickleball Evening Play. 6 p.m. New Century Fieldhouse. $3. Mature Tales. 3 p.m. Antioch Library. KC Fringe Festival storytellers John Anderson (aka Brother John) and Gary Kuntz join forces with the playwrights of Potluck Productions for an afternoon of sharing tales. After Hours Genealogy. 5 – 9 p.m. Olathe Public Library. Program to focus on how to use Ancestry. com, HeritageQuest and America’s Obituaries.
July 21 Mah Jongg for Beginners. 6 p.m. Roeland Park. $48/$53. Five/two hour sessions.
July 29 Zumba Gold. 5:30 p.m. New Century Fieldhouse. $35.
July 30
Zumba Gold. 6:30 p.m. Mill Creek Activity Center. $35. Wednesday Walk: Where will we go? Leave 9 a.m. from Antioch Park. $18. Noon matinee of “Smokey Joe’s Café” at The New Theatre. Doors open @ 11:30 a.m. or transportation offered from Lenexa Senior Center departing at 11:15 a.m. $39/$44 (with transportation).
FACILITY LOCATIONS BLUE VALLEY REC.: Blue Valley Recreation Activity Center: 6545 W. 151st St., Overland Park, KS 66223; 913-685-6000; www.bluevalleyrec.org.
NEW CENTURY: New Century Fieldhouse, 551 New Century Parkway, New Century, KS 66031; 913-826-2860.
CENTRAL RESOURCE LIBRARY: 9875 W. 87th St., Overland Park, KS 66212; 913826-4600.
OLATHE PUBLIC LIBRARY: 201 E. Park St., Olathe, KS 66061; 913-971-6850; to register, 913-971-6888.
EXTENSION: Johnson County K-State Research and Extension, 11811 S. Sunset Drive, Olathe, KS 66061; 913-715-7000; www.johnson.ksu.edu/classes.
PRAIRIE VILLAGE: Prairie Village Community Center, 7720 Mission Road, Prairie Village, KS 66208.
INDIAN CREEK: Indian Creek Branch Library, 12990 Black Bob Road, Olathe, KS 66062; 913-971-6888. IRENE B. FRENCH: Irene B. French Community Center, 5701 Merriam Drive, Merriam, KS 66203; 913-322-5550.
ROELAND PARK: Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood Drive, Roeland Park, KS 66205; 913-826-3160. SHAWNEE CIVIC CENTRE: 13817 Johnson Drive, Shawnee, KS 66216; 913-631-5200.
LENEXA SENIOR CENTER: 13425 Walnut St., Lenexa, KS 66215; 913-477-7100.
SHAWNEE SAFETY CENTER: SenCom computer lab, lower level, 6535 Quivira Road, Shawnee, KS 66203; 913-631-5200.
MAHAFFIE STAGECOACH STOP AND FARM: 1200 Kansas City Road, Olathe, KS 66061; 913-971-5111.
SYLVESTER POWELL: Sylvester Powell Community Center, 6200 Martway St., Mission, KS 66202; 913-722-8200.
MATT ROSS: Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty St., Overland Park, KS 66212; 913-642-6410.
TOMAHAWK RIDGE: Tomahawk Ridge Community Center, 11902 Lowell Ave., Overland Park, KS 66213; 913-327-6645.
www.jocogov.org/thebesttimes •
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• July 2014
Actual Spectrum Residents
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Monday, July 28 • 10am-3pm
(913) 871-3743
6335 Maurer Road, Shawnee, KS 66217 ShawneeHillsSeniorLiving.com A SPECTRUM RETIREMENT COMMUNITY SH Best Times July 2014 Full Page
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• July 2014