July 2022 TownTalk

Celebrate Independence Day PAGE 3

Great grilling tips PAGE 7

Building and enjoying pools — the right way PAGE 12

Rec Center turns 5 PAGE 18

Summer fun and flavors at Lenexa markets PAGE 20

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In this issue JULY 2022 • ISSUE FOUR

On the cover: Lake Lenexa at Black Hoof Park is a popular local destination

for boating and fishing. The dense tree canopy covering its winding trails, multiple playgrounds and beautiful views also make it the ideal spot to cool off on a summer evening. Photos by Kerry Erington.

3 Independence Day events • Fireworks rules 4 Upcoming events 6 History of the BBQ Battle

CONTACT US City Hall 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday–Friday 913.477.7500 17101 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT 913.477.7725 AskComDevel@lenexa.com Building permits, licenses (business, pet, rental, etc.), code violations, new development, engineering, right of way, traffic management, planning, zoning CITY ADMINISTRATION CityClerk@lenexa.com HUMAN RESOURCES HumanResources@lenexa.com COMMUNICATIONS Communications@lenexa.com Parks & Recreation Programs and classes, festivals and events, park maintenance, facility and shelter rentals, pools (see pg. 23 for facility hours and locations) 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday–Friday 913.477.7100 17201 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

7 Grill safety 8 Little Mill Creek tunnel • Encroachment rules Police Department Crime prevention and incident response, police reports, animal control, traffic safety, vacation house watch, school resource officers 913.477.7301 (non-emergency) 12500 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

Fire Department Fire prevention and incident response, burn permits, first aid training, fire extinguisher training, fire inspections 913.888.6380 (non-emergency) Administrative office: 9620 Pflumm Rd. Municipal Court Pay a ticket, court record search, victims’ rights 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday–Friday 913.477.7600 12400 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

Municipal Services Street repair and maintenance, street lights, snow and ice removal, stormwater drainage 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday–Friday 913.477.7880 7700 Cottonwood St.

TownTalk is published six times a year by the City of Lenexa. Please send questions or comments to communications@lenexa.com. Lenexa.com/TownTalk 2

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9 Leash laws • Playground Passport 10 Using roundabouts • Tech support scams 11 2023 Budget 12 Swimming pool and water safety 14 Why land use matters 16 City of Lenexa: A great place to work 18 Rec Center celebrates 5 years 20 New Farmers Market vendors 21 Public Market happenings 22 Recreation Program Guide

Stay up to date Sign up for a variety of e-newsletters that interest you: Lenexa.com/ENews

COMMUNITY DAYS PARADE BILL HARRISON ELZEIT DY D EN W N ISO RR HA LL BI

CELEBRATE

IN D E PENDENCE DAY! Paw-triotic Pet Parade

July 2, 9 a.m.–noon, Lenexa Public Market, 8750 Penrose Ln. This festive, pet-friendly celebration features strutting mutts in costume, pop-up vendors selling pet-related products, training demonstrations and treats for humans and dogs alike. Parade begins at 11 a.m.

LenexaPublicMarket.com

Freedom Run

July 4, 7 a.m., Old Town, Pflumm Road and Santa Fe Trail Drive

Start your Independence Day off with a fun, family-friendly 5K or 10K race! Runners, walkers and strollers are welcome, and both courses are USATF-certified. Rates are $30 June 1–July 3 and $35 the day of the race.

Register at Lenexa.com/FreedomRun.

Community Days Parade

July 4, 10 a.m., Old Town, Pflumm Road and Santa Fe Trail Drive

This annual hometown tradition draws thousands to historic Old Town Lenexa for one of the longest Independence Day parades in the Kansas City area. This year’s theme is “Good Ol’ Summertime.” View the route and learn more at Lenexa.com/Parade.

KNOW YOUR LOCAL FIREWORKS RULES

Have a safe and enjoyable July 4th holiday As a reminder, Lenexa city ordinance prohibits the discharge, firing or igniting of fireworks within the city limits. Sparklers, snakes, smoke bombs and paper caps with less than .25 grain of explosive are not considered fireworks and are legal in Lenexa.

Historically, the Lenexa Police Department responds to numerous fireworks calls over the holiday. This can result in confiscation of fireworks and citations. Please be mindful of this ordinance as you celebrate the holiday.

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Community Orchestra Concerts

July 2, July 30, Aug. 13, 7 p.m., Community Covenant Church, 15700 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

Enjoy free classical performances by the Lenexa Community Orchestra, an ensemble of volunteer musicians led by conductor Richard Ryan. The Orchestra is a program of the Lenexa Arts Council. Lenexa.com/Orchestra

Teddy Bear Picnic

July 16, 8:30–9:30 a.m., Lenexa Farmers Market, 17201 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

Have the kids bring their favorite teddy bear and blanket for a special picnic. Enjoy live music and dancing, story time, a teddy bear parade and sweet treats from vendors. Free.

Lenexa.com/FarmersMarket

Kid Makers Market

July 16, 9 a.m.–1 p.m., Lenexa Public Market, 8750 Penrose Ln.

Join us as we celebrate and support the creative endeavors of the next generation at this fun shopping event, where you can purchase a variety of products handmade by local youth.

LenexaPublicMarket.com/Events 4

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HE E IN T MOVI L A W KE LAUREN

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Moonlight Bike Ride

July 16, 10 p.m., Old Town, Pflumm Road and Santa Fe Trail Drive

Cycle across Lenexa on an 11-mile, closed-course nighttime ride from Old Town through the Meritex caves.

Participate in the “Light the Night” bicycle decorating contest at 9:30 p.m. and eat pancakes after the ride for $7. Fees are $20 per adult and $15 for kids 12 and under through July 1, then increase $5. Sponsored in partnership with the Lenexa Optimist Club. Lenexa.com/BikeRide

Movie in the Park: “Free Willy”

July 22, movie starts at dusk (9:15 p.m.), Electric Park, 9305 Loiret Blvd.

Enjoy a free, fun family evening under the stars and a heartwarming tale about a boy’s touching friendship with an Orca whale. Activities include yard games at 7 p.m. and live music at 8 p.m.

Presented in partnership with the Johnson County Library. Lenexa.com/Movie

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Lenexa Farmers Market Progressive Dinner

July 24, 5–8 p.m., Lenexa Public Market, 8750 Penrose Ln.

Join us for an amazing evening uniting two of Lenexa’s culinary gems.

Farmers Market vendors will supply the ingredients, and Public Market merchants will create a special fourcourse menu for one night only. Get tickets by July 14 at Lenexa.com/ProgressiveDinner.

Paws in the Pool

Aug. 4, 4–8 p.m., Ad Astra Pool, 8265 Maurer Rd.

Bring your furry four-legged friends for a plunge. It’s the one day a year where dogs can splash and swim at our pool paw-ty! Preregister online for $5 per swim. $8 per swim the day of the event. Lenexa.com/Paws

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parks. Participants submit catches via email. Prizes awarded. Free.

Registration required.

Lenexa.com/FishingDerby

Spinach Festival Tiny Tot Triathlon

Aug. 20, 9:30–11 a.m., Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park, 87th Street Parkway and Lackman Road Kids ages 3–9 will love the challenge of biking, running and racing down an inflatable water slide on their way to the finish line! Beginner and intermediate courses are available, and everyone gets a medal at the finish line. Registration is $5.

Lenexa.com/TinyTotTri

Movie in the Park: “The Karate Kid”

Aug. 26, dusk (8:30 p.m.), Electric Park, 9305 Loiret Blvd.

Watch a bullied teen learn self-defense and self-confidence from a sage handyman at this fun, free family evening under the stars. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Lenexa.com/Movie

Fishing Derby: All Ages

Sept. 1–30, select City of Lenexa parks

Sept. 10, 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park, 87th Street Parkway and Lackman Road

This family-oriented festival is packed with food, entertainment, contests, live music, hands-on activities, art and craft vendors and a spinach recipe contest. Free admission. Vendor booths for art, fine crafts and antiques are available for $90 through Aug. 8. Lenexa.com/Spinach

Swingin’ for a Scholarship Pickleball Tournament Fundraiser Sept. 16–17, Bois d’Arc Park, 88th Terrace and Lackman Road

Adult players of all skill levels will go paddle to paddle during this twoday tournament at Lenexa’s outdoor pickleball complex. All participant entry fees and donations support the Lenexa Parks and Recreation Scholarship Program. $25 per player per category. Register by Sept. 9.

Lenexa.com/PBF

Reel ‘em in all month long during this on-your-own derby at Lenexa

ART GALLERY SHOWS The Lenexa Arts Council curates rotating 2D and 3D art shows at the Lenexa City Hall gallery. Shows are free and open to the public.

Lenexa.com/ArtGallery

Angels of Inspiration Through July 7

Encaustic photography honoring cancer patients by Vince Fallis; 2D angel art by Eric Disney.

Senior Arts Council — Kansas City Metro July 12–Aug. 7; Artists’ reception 6–7:30 p.m. July 14

Lenexa Artists’ Show

Aug. 8–Sept. 25; Artists’ reception and awards 6–7:30 p.m. Aug. 25

HIP OLARS T H C S OR A AMEN GIN’ F ALL TOURN RISON N I W S R EB BILL HA PICKL

Artists who live in Lenexa are invited to apply for this popular juried show featuring only Lenexa residents. 2D and 3D art welcome. Artists may submit up to two pieces. Deadline to apply is July 8. View rules and apply online. Lenexa.com/Art TOWNTALK

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A HISTORY OF OUR GREAT BBQ BATTLES A special report from the Lenexa Historical Society Pictured at right: Alan Uhl, Mayor Rich Becker, Pat Dalton, David Stephens, Karen Willaur

Forty years ago, the first Great Lenexa BBQ Battle was held on Saturday, July 3, 1982, as part of Lenexa’s July 4th Community Days celebration. The idea came from Lenexans Alan Uhl and Pat Dalton.

Here’s how the December 21, 1981, Lenexa Parks and Recreation Advisory Board minutes recorded the birth of Lenexa BBQ: “Item No. 3 - Bar-B-Q Cook Off “Alan Uhl gave a brief slide presentation of the cook off at the American Royal.

He asked that Lenexa have a cook off on Saturday afternoon during Community Days weekend. He explained that he and Pat Dalton were just in the early planning stages of the event. They felt that Indian Trails Park would be a good place to have the cook off. Fees and rules will have to be decided on. The Board felt it was a good idea and will incorporate it into Community Days.”

Twelve teams competed in that first contest on the southwest corner of 87th Street Parkway and Greenway Lane.

Twelve judges tasted samples of beef, pork, lamb, ribs, poultry, sausage, whole animal and miscellaneous.

They declared Paul Kirk the winner.

The prize was a case of Michelob beer, and when it was awarded to Chef Kirk, a bottle was missing.

From those small embers grew the blaze that has become, as proclaimed by Governor John Carlin in 1984, “THE OFFICIAL ANNUAL BARBEQUE CONTEST OF THE STATE OF KANSAS, AND ITS GRAND CHAMPION TO BE THE KANSAS STATE CHAMPION BARBEQUE CHEF.” (This was the first state barbecue championship ever declared by any state.)

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The contest has annually grown to nearly 200 teams, a like number of judges, scores of trophies, ribbons and plaques, along with tens of thousands of dollars in prize money.

It has afforded numerous Lenexa community-building volunteer hours and fundraising opportunities, with thousands of people visiting the contest to pick up smoking tips and reconnect with neighbors and friends. It causes “return to Lenexa” vacations to be planned around the event held the fourth Saturday in June, and carries on in all kinds of weather, from scorching June heat through the horrendous rains of 1991 and 2019.

Over the decades, the contest improved innovatively: Ambassadors who cater to the teams, table captains who cater to the judges, computerized

scoring, Kansas City Barbecue Society sanctioning, Spirit Awards, Founders’ Trophies, shade and electric fans under a tent with bottled water for judges (rather than the early days of tables arranged in an open sundrenched field and a garden hose).

In April, wanting to reserve a spot in the contest, teams have been known to line up the night before for an 8 a.m. registration. Contest winners have gone on to open successful restaurants and catering businesses. The contest has bolstered local Lenexa pride and added weight to Kansas City’s claim to being “The BBQ Capital of the World.” In the 2001 book, “The Grand Barbecue,” it was described as one of the top four contests in the world. It was even the filming site of a Kingsford Charcoal commercial.

Yes, the 1981 Lenexa Parks and Recreation Advisory Board thought a Bar-B-Q Cook Off would be “a good idea.” Forty years later, it still is.

Plan a safer cookout Everyone looks forward to a backyard barbecue with friends — the sound of kids splashing in the pool, the sight of the Kansas sunset, the aroma of burgers and brats on the grill. Although the Lenexa Fire Department would appreciate an invite, they don’t want to crash the party for an emergency. Instead, they have some safety tips for before, during and after your summer gatherings.

If you live in an apartmen t complex , contact yo ur leasing agent to fi nd out if grills are allowed!

PROPER PREP

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COOKOUT COOLDOWN

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), July is the peak month for grill fires. The best ways to practice grill safety occur before you even light the fire.

Once the grill is lit, one of the biggest safety concerns is burns. According to the NFPA, nearly 9,500 people end up at emergency departments each year due to thermal burns caused by grills. Of those, nearly 40% are children under the age of 5.

The U.S. Fire Administration attributes about $37 million in property loss each year to grill fires. Improperly disposed of coals contribute to this number. It can take more than 24 hours for coals to cool completely.

Even if they don’t look hot, the center of the coals could still be hot enough to ignite combustible material.

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Only use grills or smokers outdoors, and keep them at least 10 feet away from siding, deck rails and eaves.

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Only use a grill or smoker on a sturdy, level surface to prevent it from tipping over.

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Start with a clean grill — excess grease buildup could start a fire.

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Visually inspect the grill before lighting to look for cracks or breaks in gas lines.

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Open a gas grill before lighting to avoid gas buildup that could cause a flash fire when lit.

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Never leave grills or smokers unattended.

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Keep a 3-foot safe zone around the grill to avoid injuries to pets and children.

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Use long-handled tools to avoid placing your hands and arms over the flames.

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Wear short sleeves or tight-fitting clothes to avoid catching clothing on fire.

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Never add lighter fluid to coals that are already ignited.

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Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case flames get out of control.

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Get trained in first aid, and keep supplies on hand to treat minor burns.

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Let coals cool completely before disposing of them. Submerging them in water can speed cooling.

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Dispose of coals in a metal can with a tight-fitting lid used only to collect coals.

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Store the container outside and away from the home and other combustibles.

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Store matches, lighters and lighter fluid where children can’t access them.

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LITTLE MILL CREEK TRAIL TUNNEL

LITTLE MILL CREEK PARK

83RD ST

Traveling Lenexa’s most popular trail will be safer, simpler and more pleasant after the installation of a new tunnel under 87th Street Parkway this summer.

Crossing the Little Mill Creek Trail at 87th Street Parkway requires climbing four flights of stairs more than 20 feet above the trail, then traveling across four busy lanes of divided roadway. It’s an especially difficult crossing for bicyclists, children and people with mobility challenges.

87TH ST PKWY

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AD ASTRA PARK AND POOL

NEW TUNNEL

A $1.1 million grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation has helped fund the tunnel project, which will significantly improve pedestrian and cycling connectivity in the heart of the city.

The new tunnel is expected to be installed in August and open to travelers by this fall.

TRAIL CROSSING OPTIONS BOIS D’ARC PARK PICKLEBALL COMPLEX

SAR-KO-PAR TRAILS PARK: INDIAN TRAILS AQUATIC CENTER SKATE PARK LEGLER BARN MUSEUM

LEGEND Street

Their analysis found that the most practical, cost-effective method would be to dig a trench across 87th Street Parkway, install precast tunnel structures and fittings, reconstruct the road above, and pour a concrete walking surface through the tunnel.

OLD TOWN LENEXA LENEXA COMMUNITY CENTER AND SENIOR CENTER

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The City worked with a consultant to evaluate the best ways to approach constructing a tunnel, the safest option for walkers and bikers to access both sides of the trail.

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The consultant estimated that tunneling under the road would cost about three times more than installing a precast tunnel.

A pedestrian bridge was ruled out early on in the planning process. The bridge would need to be more than 30 feet tall to meet even the minimum clearance requirements over the road.

Do you live next to a stream, park, trail or open land?

Make sure you know where your property ends and City property begins.

Landowners sometimes encroach onto neighboring public property.

This is often inadvertent and typically happens in one of the following ways: •

Building or placing structures. Across Lenexa, there are firepits, trampolines, playsets and fences on City property.

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Landscaping. Planting trees and plants, mowing, trimming or digging on City property might seem like you’re making improvements. But these areas are often designed to have important

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conservation, stormwater management or habitat preservation purposes.

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Dumping. Grass clippings, branches and leaves should always go in your yard waste or compost container. It’s especially important to avoid illegal dumping around streams, where these materials can harm water quality and drainage.

The location of your property line isn’t always intuitive. AIMS, Johnson County’s online mapping system,

is an easy way to view the approximate borders of your property. Go to Maps.JoCo.org, search for your address, and select “parcels” under the layers menu.

To find the exact locations of your property line, you should contact a private surveyor. They can mark the precise boundaries of your land so you can easily find the right location for a new project — or a good place to move something you’ve built on City property.

RC

PREPARE FOR ROAD CLOSURES 87th Street Parkway will close in both directions while the precast tunnel is installed. The closure is scheduled to last ten days, but an incentive/ disincentive provision encourages the contractor to complete the project more quickly.

For each day the road is open before the 10-day deadline, the contractor will receive a bonus. After 10 days, the contractor would have to pay a fine for each day the road remains closed.

During the full closure, traffic will detour via Lackman Road to 79th Street/95th Street to Pflumm Road.

Weather or material delays could impact the closure start date, which is currently planned for early August. To keep up with the most current closure details, sign up for Road Closure Alerts at Lenexa.com/Enews, or follow the City of Lenexa on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or Nextdoor.

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Early design rendering. The completed tunnel will have an arched roof.

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The tunnel is designed to be safe and welcoming, with a tall arched entrance and round-the-clock lighting.

Cameras will be installed at each entrance, with an emergency call box at the south entrance. The structure is set high enough above the stream to the east to prevent flooding.

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Pups in parks belong on a leash Lenexa city ordinance requires that dogs be leashed at all times while at City of Lenexa parks, walking trails and sidewalks. Some mistakenly believe that if a dog is obedient and under verbal control by the owner, then it does not have to be leashed; however this is not true.

Animal control officers routinely patrol Lenexa parks helping to educate pet owners about this ordinance and how it makes our parks safer for everyone, including dogs.

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For a 10-day period immediately before and after the full closure, the contractor can close one lane of 87th Street Parkway between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. They are required to open the road to two lanes of traffic in each direction by August 19.

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Have you started your Playground Passport?

Kids love discovering Lenexa’s fun playgrounds while figuring out the secret puzzle on the Playground Passport. Plus, those who turn in a completed passport receive a prize and are entered in a drawing to win an outdoor prize package!

To participate, you can visit all 27 playgrounds on the Passport or just those for your child’s age range.

Puzzle instructions are provided on the passport. Pick one up at the Lenexa Rec Center or Lenexa Community Center, or download and print a copy at Lenexa.com/Passport.

BLACK HOOF PARK WENDY DELZEIT

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HOW TO USE

ROUNDABOUTS Roundabouts are a way to keep traffic moving smoothly and quickly instead of traffic lights, which can interrupt the flow of traffic.

When approaching a roundabout, slow your speed and look for vehicles coming from your left inside the roundabout.

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If there are other vehicles circulating in your path or approaching from your left, yield until it is clear for you to enter the roundabout.

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If there are no vehicles in your path, you can enter without stopping.

Follow the signs and lane markings in and around the circle, including the posted speed limit for the roundabout. Pay special attention to any crosswalks surrounding the roundabout, and yield to pedestrians crossing.

KNOW THE SIGNS OF

TECH SUPPORT SCAMS The Lenexa Police Department has had numerous reports recently of residents falling victim to a commonly used “computer tech support” scam.

Some of those victims have lost tens of thousands of dollars in this scheme.

Here’s how the scam works: •

While using a home computer, a pop-up window appears telling the user that their computer has detected a virus, or that some other unsafe condition needs to be addressed.

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The victim is told to call “Microsoft tech support” at the number on the screen.

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When the victim calls the “tech support” number, the scammer on the other end asks for remote access to the victim’s computer. The phony tech support will also ask for payment to take care of the computer problem.

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In the days following, the victim may also receive additional calls from the scammer telling them their bank accounts are now compromised and requests payments via gift cards or Bitcoin ATM.

No matter the scam, fraudsters use pressure to play on the victim’s emotions and will try to get them to act quickly without thinking or consulting someone for advice. Be especially leery anytime someone is asking for payment using pre-paid gifts cards (Visa, iTunes, Google Play, etc.) purchased from a local retailer.

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DID YOU KNOW? Microsoft support will never call or email you unsolicited to offer to fix your computer.

Their error and warning messages never include phone numbers — if you see a pop-up or error message with a phone number, it’s a scam.

2023 BUDGET

The Lenexa Governing Body planned to begin reviewing the City’s 2023 Recommended Budget in late June. After several weeks of analysis and input, they’ll consider approving the budget in late August. Here’s what you need to know about this upcoming budget cycle.

NEW IN 2022 ESTIMATED TAX NOTICES For the first time this year, you’ll receive a mailed estimated tax notice from Johnson County in early August. Nothing is significantly different about the City of Lenexa’s budget or budget process this year — the form is simply a requirement of a new state law about property tax rate notices.

In 2021, the Kansas State Legislature adopted SB 13, which establishes new procedural requirements for taxing jurisdictions — like cities, counties and school districts — to set property tax rates.

With each annual budget cycle, the law requires the calculation of a revenueneutral property tax rate. This rate is the mill levy needed by the City (or other taxing jurisdiction) to generate the same amount of property tax revenue as the prior year, using the current year’s assessed valuation amounts.

To exceed the revenue-neutral rate, taxing jurisdictions must now hold a separate public hearing on the tax rate in addition to their typical public hearing for the proposed budget. Under the new law, County Clerks are required to provide mailed notices — the estimated tax notices— to all taxpayers outlining these public hearing dates and the proposed property tax rate impacts to their specific properties.

While the estimated tax notices and tax rate public hearing requirements are new, exceeding the revenue-neutral rate is very common for local governments and other taxing jurisdictions as they maintain and expand services. Traditionally, the City of Lenexa receives increased revenue from new growth (newly built homes and businesses) and/or increased property valuations.

The new revenue helps fund increased demand and operational, labor and commodity costs due to economic pressures to provide key public services like police and fire protection, public parks and trails, pools, community festivals, senior programs, recreation facilities, stormwater management, street and sidewalk maintenance and snow removal.

HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?

Johnson County has created a website with helpful information about the new notices at JoCoGov.org/EstimatedTaxNotice.

REVIEW THE BUDGET The 2023 Recommended Budget is available at Lenexa.com/Budget. In this document, you’ll find general information about Lenexa, a financial overview, individual department and fund budgets and more helpful details.

ASK QUESTIONS Citizens can learn more about the budget process and what’s proposed in the 2023 Recommended Budget at an open house Aug. 11. Visit Lenexa City Hall, 17101 W. 87th St. Pkwy., between 5 and 7 p.m. to ask questions about and gain insight into the City’s financial position and plans.

GIVE FEEDBACK The Lenexa City Council will hold public hearings for the 2023 Recommended Budget and the tax rate during a special call meeting Aug. 23. The Council will consider approving the budget after the hearings.

This meeting will start at 7 p.m. in the Community Forum at Lenexa City Hall.

Can’t make it to the public hearing? You can send comments and questions to budget@lenexa.com.

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PROJECT 101

SWIMMING POOLS With hot summer temperatures comes the irresistible urge to cool off. Whether in your home pool, a community pool, or boating on the lake, it is important to keep water safety at the forefront of your mind.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death for children ages one to four. According to the American Red Cross, 87% of drowning fatalities of children younger than 5 happen in home pools or hot tubs. Oftentimes, this is due to a child gaining access to a pool or water without the caregiver’s knowledge.

BUILDING CODES ARE LIFE-SAVERS Following building codes helps ensure that your pool is built safely for you, your family and your guests. That’s why the City of Lenexa requires permits and inspections for all above-ground and in-ground pools, except for prefabricated pools less than 30 inches deep.

Specific code requirements can be found in the Lenexa pool requirements guide at Lenexa.com/Remodeling.

Here are some of the top issues our inspectors pay close attention to when inspecting new pools. If you have an existing pool, make sure each of these safety measures is in place.

BUILDING & MAINTAINING SAFE POOLS DOOR ALARMS Pool alarms can provide additional protection against children gaining unsupervised access to a pool.

On new pools, alarms are required on doors leading from the house to the pool area.

ELECTRICAL HAZARDS Everything electrical near the pool needs to be GFCI-protected. The City requires all electrical work associated with new permanent swimming pools to be installed by a properly licensed electrician.

You don’t need a licensed electrician if you purchase a portable pool from a retail store less than 30 inches deep which is equipped with a GFCI-protected circulation pump that plugs into an existing outlet.

There must also be a 10-foot horizontal clearance from the pool to overhead power lines and 5-foot horizontal clearance from any underground electrical wiring.

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CIRCULATION SYSTEMS Improper circulation system covers can allow extremities like fingers, limbs and hair to become entrapped in the drain, which can result in drowning.

Any covers sold after December 2008 must comply with federal safety regulations that protect swimmers from entrapment. Make sure you replace your drain covers when they reach the end of their service life or are broken, missing or manufactured before December 2008.

FENCING If your pool can hold up to two feet of water, it needs a fence that is at least 48 inches tall with a self-closing, self-latching gate to keep out children and unauthorized swimmers.

Don’t place furniture or toys near the fence that a child could use to climb over the fence.

Y A D Y R E EV WATER Y T E F A S

Check out PoolSafely.gov to learn more about preventing pool injuries and drownings. You’ll find pool safety tips, fun games to teach kids how to stay safe around pools and other helpful resources.

protect your guests

at the lake

Follow these key tips for home pool safety:

A relaxing day at the lake can turn dangerous in seconds. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, 75% of fatal boating accident victims drowned.

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Post a sign that says, “IN CASE OF EMERGENCY CALL 911” and include your address since guests or children may not have it memorized.

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Know how to perform CPR and keep a phone nearby.

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Don’t assume all your guests— especially children — can swim. Ask.

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Toddlers and infants should have physical contact with an adult at all times in or around the pool.

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Don’t get in the water alone or if you’ve been drinking.

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Pool chemicals should be kept in a secure place where children can’t access them.

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Don’t dive unless you know the depth of the water.

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Don’t swim near a dock or marina where there is a higher chance of electric shock.

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If the weather starts to turn severe, get off the water.

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Stay hydrated. Dehydration or heat exhaustion can still occur in the water.

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Stay away from the rear of the boat while the engine is running. Carbon monoxide levels can reach dangerous levels quickly.

kids + water Drowning can happen quickly and is often silent. Enrolling children in swimming lessons — offered year-round at the Lenexa Rec Center — can increase their confidence in the water. When kids are around water, it’s still important to follow these rules: •

Designate someone to watch the children as their only duty.

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If a child goes missing, look in the pool or hot tub first.

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Teach children to stay away from drains and filters to avoid entrapment.

Of those, 86% were not wearing a life jacket.

Everyone on the boat or in the lake should wear a life jacket that is fitted to them and properly fastened.

COOL OFF AT OUR OUTDOOR POOLS Find amenities and admission rates at Lenexa.com/Pools

INDIAN TRAILS AQUATIC CENTER WENDY DELZEIT

Flat Rock Creek Pool Daily: noon to 7:30 p.m.

Closes for the season July 31

Indian Trails Aquatic Center Hours through August 7 Daily: noon to 7:30 p.m.

Ad Astra Pool Monday–Saturday: noon to 7:30 p.m.

Sunday: noon to 6 p.m.

Closes for the season July 31

Hours Aug. 8–Sept. 5 Friday: 4 to 7:30 p.m.

Weekends: noon to 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 5: noon–6 p.m.

TOWNTALK

13

M A P P ING OUT LE N EX A’S FUT URE The City of Lenexa has made encouraging progress on its new Comprehensive Plan since worked kicked off in late 2021. This plan evaluates existing conditions of the community; identifies goals and strategies to help guide long-term development; and provides an implementation plan to achieve these goals.

Both the Future Land Use Plan and the Zoning Map play key roles in determining the way that Lenexa grows over time. The new Comprehensive Plan will include strategic updates to these pivotal resources. Additional study and outreach planned for this summer will help guide these changes.

Land use is how a property is being used now (existing land use) or how we anticipate it will be used in the future (future land use). Zoning regulates how a property can develop.

Zoning can be seen as the “book of rules” by which the Comprehensive Plan and Future Land Use Map are brought to fruition. The Comprehensive Plan is the vision, and zoning is the instruction manual to achieve that vision.

MIDLAND DR

Shawnee

BLACKFISH PKWY

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RENNER RD

75TH ST

Shawnee

79TH ST

Shawnee RENNER BLVD

4 83RD ST

4 7 87TH ST

QUIVIRA RD

LACKMAN R D

CEDAR NILES RD

DeSoto

CLARE RD

87TH ST PKWY

PFLUMM RD

DeSoto

CEDAR NILES RD

83RD ST

6

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6

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RIDGEVIEW RD

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Suburban Density Residential

Neighborhood Commercial Center

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EE

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Future Land Use Plan

COLLEGE BLVD

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Updating the Future Land Use Plan will be a key part of the new ) Alternative Plan locations ^ Comprehensive Plan. This Future Land Use Plan shows different land uses and intensity of those uses based on the context of the area, demographic information, and market viability. Lenexa’s current Future Land Use Plan is shown above.

Low Density Residential

CR

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) ^

Alternative Plan locations Low Density Residential

Mixed Use

Suburban Density Residential

Neighborhood Commercial Center

Medium Density Residential

Community Commercial Center

Regional Commercial Center

Office/Employment Center

High Density Residential

Regional Commercial Center

Public & Open Space

Office/Research & Development

Urban Residential

Office/Employment Center

City Center Core

Business Park

Public & Open Space

Office/Research & Development

City Center Core

Business Park

KA N

SA

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High Density Residential

Urban Residential

It’s important to create a Future Land Use Plan with diverse land uses so neighborhoods and community are built instead of just one land use type. An area is more vibrant and residents are better served if there is variation in housing types. It’s important to have retail stores and services in close proximity to housing and places of employment. Accessibility to all of these land types is key; ideally there should be multiple modes of transportation connecting places.

Street

Lenexa City Limits

The information contained in this map document is provided and maintained by various individuals representing a number of agencies, municipal governments, and state and federal agencies. No guarantee is given as to the accuracy or currency of any of the data. Therefore, in no event shall the City of Lenexa, KS nor Johnson County, KS be liable for any special, indirect, or consequential damages or any damages whatsoever resulting from loss of use, data, or profits, whether in an action of contract, negligence, or other action, arising out of or in connection with the use of the information herein provided. For further information, please call 913-477-7500 OR email GISWORKREQUEST@LENEXA.COM

14

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TOWNTALK

Street Lenexa City Limits 0

0.25

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Miles 1

Document Path: R:\AvPro\CommDev\CompPlan\FLU_2012.mxd

Date: 4/15/2013 The information contained in t and state and federal agencies. No guarantee is give indirect, or consequential d or other action, arising out of or in connection w

This is Lenexa’s Current Zoning Map, as shown in the recently completed Existing Conditions Report.

ZONING

EXPLORE ZONING & LAND USE Finding the current zoning and future land use for your property and others in Lenexa is easy! Just scan this code with your phone to access our interactive map.

The Future Land Use Plan isn’t the only colorcoded map that they City uses when regulating land use. The Plan influences decisions about how properties can be zoned — the more specific classification for how a property can be used. Zoning helps keep development areas compatible with each other and allows the City to have different code requirements for different zoning classifications.

CONNIE KENDALL

Population Growth Rates 2011–2019

WENDY DELZEIT

Kansas 1%

Johnson County 4%

Lenexa 7%

E XISTING CO ND I T I O NS A N A LY S I S Can you believe that Lenexa’s population has grown 69% over the past 30 years? Analyzing demographic data and current information about the City is an important part of building the new Comprehensive Plan.

The project team recently finished an Existing Conditions Report, which includes information about the City’s demographics, community outreach, previous plans and studies, current development, community Age Distribution facilities, infrastructure, Lenexa, 2019 transportation and Under 5, 7% 65 and Over, 15% mobility, and recreation.

Check out the report at Lenexa.com/CompPlan to find helpful maps, interesting demographic facts and more in-depth details about Lenexa today.

5–19, 17% 55–64, 13%

35–54, 26%

Median Age 38 20–34, 22%

WHAT ’S N EXT ?

The City plans to finalize a vision statement and goals for the new Comprehensive Plan by the end of July. Stakeholder feedback and the Existing Conditions Report will shape these parts of the plan. Next, the project team will prepare and analyze different land use scenarios.

The final version of the new Comprehensive Plan is anticipated to be complete at the end of the year! Stay in the loop by signing up for email updates at Lenexa.com/CompPlan. You can also email the Community Development Department directly at askcomdevel@lenexa.com if you have any questions.

TOWNTALK

15

OUR VALUES:  MAKE EVERY DECISION WITH INTEGRITY  DELIVER RESULTS THROUGH TEAMWORK  PROVID

WE’RE LOOKING FOR

excellent employees

TO PROVIDE

exceptional public service

Like so many other organizations, the City of Lenexa has had difficulty attracting and retaining staff over the last couple of years.

At the beginning of 2022, the City had a historic 50 vacant full-time positions. Most of those were in entry-level positions that provide critical services like public safety; parks, streets and stormwater maintenance workers; and pool lifeguards.

New enhancements to pay and benefits are designed to attract and retain employees.

OUR VISION: LEADERS IN THE DELIVERY OF

OUR MISSION: TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONAL SERVIC PROFESSIONALS WORKING IN PARTNERS

CATCHING UP WITH COMPENSATION A pay and benefits study completed in late 2021 revealed that inflation and economic factors had led comparable public organizations in our area to significantly increase their wages since Lenexa’s last pay study in 2018.

come work with us!

Check out a variety of open positions across our departments and apply at Lenexa.com/Jobs. We’re often hiring for a number of entry-level positions including: •

Maintenance workers in our Parks, Streets and Stormwater divisions

•

Custodial positions

•

Police officers, public service officers and dispatchers

Jobseekers who aren’t sure which position would be the best fit for them can fill out a general application at Lenexa.com/Jobs. Our Human Resources professionals will look at each applicant’s skills and experience and analyze which open positions would best suit them.

16

TOWNTALK

The new study concluded that employee pay had fallen behind, making it difficult to recruit and retain staff in such a competitive market.

In February 2022, several changes were made to Lenexa’s compensation plan based on the pay study: •

Minimum pay for full-time, non-public-safety employees increased to $15.41 per hour.

•

Minimum pay for new police officers increased to $51,116, and minimum firefighter pay increased to $46,751.

•

Throughout the City’s pay plan, pay went up 5.5% for non-safety employees and 3 to 16% for public safety employees.

•

Part-time employee pay increased between $.50 and $6.55 per hour.

DE EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE  LEAD INTO THE FUTURE WITH VISION  BE DEDICATED TO EXCELLENCE  WE CARE

STEVEN SHROUT ASSISTANT CITY ATTORNEY

KATIE CLINE FIREFIGHTER/PARAMEDIC

“When you are in the private sector, you’re helping one individual or company with their problem on that day. On the public side, especially here as in-house counsel, we’re helping an organization that is also helping an entire city to do business, grow their lives, and enjoy amenities.

“You don’t really do anything by yourself in the fire service. You’re always with someone else when you’re on calls. Whether you’re going into a fire or going on a medical call, you’re pretty much never alone. It’s always teamwork.”

“At the end of the day, we all have each other’s back.”

“I think that in order to perform well in what we do, you really have to have a desire to serve.”

meet our

F EXCEPTIONAL PUBLIC SERVICE

TEAM

CE THROUGH A TEAM OF DEDICATED SHIP WITH THE COMMUNITY

One of the top reasons to work for the City of Lenexa: an outstanding culture where you’re supported, valued and work with great people who love their careers. Explore stories from employees at Lenexa.com/MeetOurTeam.

AN APPEALING SUITE OF BENEFITS The City of Lenexa has long offered an extremely competitive benefits package to attract the best public employees possible.

A slate of new benefit enhancements were approved in May to both appeal to new hires and keep great employees with the organization.

The City of Lenexa’s benefit package includes:

•

Minimum two weeks of vacation during first year. Possibility of additional leave time based on prior service (new).

•

Six weeks of fully paid parental leave, per birth or adoption (new). Optional leave is available after this period up to 12 weeks.

•

Low-cost premiums for medical, dental and vision insurance.

•

Free or low-cost on-site medical clinic.

•

•

•

4% employer retirement contribution with optional 2% match.

Paid sick and personal leave, with bonus personal leave during first year (new).

City-paid short-term and long-term disability plans and life insurance coverage.

•

Free Lenexa Rec Center memberships for employees and discounted memberships for family members (new).

•

Tuition reimbursement up to $3,500 per year.

•

10 paid holidays per year.

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17

BILL HARRISON

CELEBRATING FIVE YEARS AT THE

LENEXA REC CENTER Encouraging tips from trainers, kids celebrating a successful swim, seniors enjoying a friendly pickleball match — step into the Lenexa Rec Center and you’ll pick up on countless signs of its impacts on the health and well-being of our community over the last five years.

•

The activity gym on the first floor hosts drop-in pickleball and other games, plus our popular full-day Summer Camp and school break camps.

For well over a decade, a community recreation center had been on residents’ wish lists — it was named as an objective during the City’s Vision 2030 process in 2007.

A portion of the revenue from a 3/8-cent sales tax that went into effect in 2008 funded the construction of the new facility.

•

The Rec Center track is one of the longest indoor tracks in the metro area and offers stunning views of Lenexa. Walkers can choose a 5% grade or level course on the 1/6 mile loop.

•

The fitness floor (third floor) features around 100 pieces of user-friendly, state-of-the-art equipment.

•

The popular14,000-square-foot indoor pool includes a water play structure for children, three lap lanes, a lazy river, a warm water wellness pool, two 40-foot-tall slides and a deep water well.

The Lenexa Rec Center officially opened on July 31, 2017, with an engaging array of amenities to appeal to Lenexans now and in the future.

•

The second-floor gymnasium has two full courts for basketball, volleyball or pickleball.

Find membership rates and more information on page 23.

Lenexa.com/RecCenter

R

ILL

B

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HA

N

O

S RI

d Ki e ch . h t t d ed wa cise y d jo il er en ch s ex e g t av gin ren h s ga pa kid , en eir 0 fe th 00 r sa hile , ks 20 ou w ar r P a ns ve — — O one ram ex sso at n e le p Z rog s L im gn u p w lo sw Si al fer d. l n oo o of rou ive. p t t or on ear tAc o i e d t y G in a s e ecre ge m/ h T R ll a co & r a xa. fo ne Le

There have been more than 1.5 million membership visits and 60,000 day pass visits since the Rec Center opened.

72% of Rec Center members are Lenexa residents.

The Rec Center has hosted over 300 program offerings with 3,000+ participants.

Programs include art classes, karate, youth fitness, adult specialty fitness, enrichment programs, specialty camps and Start Smart sports.

View upcoming programs at Lenexa.com/GetActive.

e s or ie m art arty ty r ed p p at day ee r pa in r r leb th th ou e ce bir er’s m f tim e y t o e av 000 en e fr lud ms. art h c C P s ds 3, c o in gy y Ki an e Re Cho hat /or thda th th s. es t nd Bir in om ag l, a / ro ack oo com p e p xa. th ne Le

e ag r e av X. n a up e rv Gro e ss / se .com s la a s c nex s ne Le fit at g -in le in t in p a op edu r a u d h tr X t sc d ign e p s iz S u e m s. ro at to nge G he l s t cu ha 50 ee c 0 t 0 yle ou s. S 0 t b a ee 5, es k, nd n lif e a e th ing we tt re last h 0a c o m ve Ea f 40 o led chie e av ts a h rs an ne ticip i ra r l t pa e. a on lp tiv rs o he tAc e p st e ed nce /G fi rti rie com Ce pe xa. ex ne Le

The Rec Center initiated many new community events that have now become mainstays in the City of Festivals.

Fireplace Yoga (January) Run Club (spring–fall) Underwater Egg Hunt (spring) Outdoor workout series (June and September) JA

IM

Halloween Scavenger Hunt (October) E

M

Selfies with Santa (December)

O

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LE

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19

SEASON SCHEDULE Presented by LMC Truck Saturdays 8 a.m. to noon through Oct. 29 Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through Aug. 30 Visit us Lenexa civic campus, 17201 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

Lenexa.com/FarmersMarket

LATEST NEWS Sign up for newsletter Lenexa.com/FarmersMarket Join our Facebook group Facebook.com/Groups/LenexaFarmMkt

Welcome, new vendors!

Brew Haha (Overland Park, KS) Mobile coffee trailer serving specialty coffee, smoothies and lemonade.

Bos Hill Blooms (Shawnee, KS) Edible and fresh-cut flowers, floral arrangements, honey, and fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, pumpkins and pears.

Maz’s Produce (Leroy, KS) Vegetables including include potatoes, sweet onions, peas, green beans, tomatoes, lettuce, kale, okra, peppers, squash, cucumbers, melons and pumpkins.

The Milk of Human Kindness (Gardner, KS) Food recovery education and ricotta cheese sampling.

Moonlight Prairie Farm (Gardner, KS) Fruits and vegetables, including mushrooms and microgreens.

New Roots for Refugees – Len Merry (Kansas City, KS) Variety of Asian and American vegetables grown using organic practices.

Spanish House Farm (Piper, KS) Specialty cut flowers grown in a pollinator-safe environment.

Tango Bites (Overland Park, KS) Argentinian baked empanadas and mini quiches in various flavors.

20

TOWNTALK

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE

Lenexa Public Market COMING SOON

What’s fresh

in July–August

The availability of produce is dependent on the season and weather conditions. For the most up-to-date info on what is coming and going at the Market, subscribe to our newsletter.

Baked Goods Artisan Breads • Cakes • Cereal Bars • Cheesecake • Cinnamon Rolls • Cookies and Cookies Mixes • Granola • Hand Pies • Pastries • Pies • Pralines

Beverages Beer • Cocktails • Coffee • Herbal Tea Blends • Kombucha • Lemonade • Mead • Milk • Polly’s Pops • Smoothies• Shrub Syrups • Wine

Dairy Butter • Cheese and Cheese Dips/Spreads • Milk • Yogurt

Fruits and Vegetables Beets • Bok Choy • Broccoli • Cabbage • Carrots • Cauliflower • Cucumbers • Cut Herbs • Garlic • Green Beans • Greens (Kale, Lettuce, Spinach, Swiss Chard) • Onions • Peaches • Peppers • Potatoes • Radishes • Summer Squash • Sweet Corn • Sweet Potatoes • Tomatoes

Market Staples Dried Beans • Eggs • Flour • Fruit Vinegars • Fudge Sauce • Honey • Jams / Jellies • Mustard • Nuts • Pickles • Pancake Mix • Popcorn • Rubs, Sauces and Seasonings • Salsa • Sunflower Oil

Meat Beef • Chicken • Duck • Lamb • Pork • Turkey

Plants and Flowers Bedding Plants • Cut Flowers • Potted Herbs, Plants • Succulents

Ready to Eat Empanadas • Ice Cream Sandwiches • Quiches • Pastries

Wellness and Gifts Body Care Products • CBD/ CBG products • Chocolates • Elderberry Syrup • Farmers Market T-shirts, Tumblers, Umbrellas • Pet Bandanas, Toys and Treats • Wine Accessories

Cosmo Burger is expected to open in the Lenexa Public Market in July. The smash burgers and tots customers and food critics have come to love at their original Waldo location will be joined by a new menu of craft cocktails.

WEEKLY FUN FIRST MONDAY OF THE MONTH: Game Night Come and learn some new games and hang out with fellow board game enthusiasts! TableTop Game and Hobby and Cardboard Corner Cafe bring a small library of games to choose from and experts to teach new games from 6 to 9 p.m. Attendees can also bring their own games. Free admission.

WEDNESDAYS: Family Night

Bring the whole family from 5 to 8 p.m. for free activities like a balloon artist, yard games, sidewalk chalk, coloring pages and classic board games. Merchants offer food and drink specials for kids and parents. Some rotating activities like donut decorating require preregistration or purchase of tickets.

See details and buy tickets for specialty activities at LenexaPublicMarket.com.

FRIDAYS: Friday Night Sound Bites Join us for free, live music and rotating, local food trucks on the patio every Friday night. Patio seating is available, but we encourage BYOC — bring your own chair. Concerts start at 7 p.m. until Aug. 12., then begin at 6 p.m. until the season’s end Oct. 28.

See upcoming bands and food trucks at LenexaPublicMarket.com/Fridays.

8750 PENROSE LN. LENEXAPUBLICMARKET.COM TOWNTALK

21

Registering for classes & programs Online: Lenexa.com/GetActive Fast, easy and no lines! Provides immediate enrollment confirmation.

Use the Activity Number (example: #124356) at the end of each course description to quickly find it at Lenexa.com/GetActive. Select “Search” in the top menu bar, then type the code into the Activity Number box.

RECREATION

PROGRAM GUIDE JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022

New users will create a household account listing each household member.

Walk-in: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. at the Lenexa Rec Center, 17201 W. 87th St. Pkwy., Lenexa, KS 66219 = 10% discount for Rec Center X Pass members

Waitlist Participants who wish to register for activities where capacity enrollment has been reached will go on a waitlist. If space becomes available, participants will be notified.

Cancellation policies All program cancellations will be determined two business days before the class is scheduled to begin. All registrations are required before the 48-hour deadline. You’ll be notified if a program has been canceled or changed. If you need to cancel, call at least five business days before the program begins. Refunds only made if cancellation does not affect minimum participant number. There will be a $5 processing fee.

Refunds take 3–6 weeks and are not granted after the activity begins. Some senior trips and programs have their own cancellation policies.

Scholarships available Lenexa Parks & Recreation offers scholarships to make memberships and programs more affordable for Lenexa residents. Visit Lenexa.com/Parks or call 913.477.7100 to learn more.

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

Questions? Call 913.477.7100 Mon.–Fri. 8 a.m.–6 p.m. or email parksandrec@lenexa.com.

T-BALL WENDY DELZEIT

Sign up for Rainout Line to keep up with closures, cancellations and notifications.

Email/text: RainoutLine.com • Phone: 913.477.7170 Free mobile app • Program pages: Lenexa.com/Parks

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

LENEXA REC CENTER MEMBERSHIP RATES • Core Pass: Access to all Rec Center amenities •

Pass: Access to all Rec Center amenities, Group X fitness classes and a 10% discount on programs and services • Day Pass: Access as a Core Pass member, plus one Group X fitness class

REGULAR RATE

RESIDENT DISCOUNT

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

Core Pass Members pay $6 per class or can buy a 10- or 20-class punch card.

Day passes for nonmembers include one class. Additional classes are $8 each.

Monthly

Annual

Monthly

Annual

Adult (18–59)

$53

$583

$42

$462

Youth (12–17)

$41

$451

$33

$363

Senior (60+)

$48

$528

$38

$418

Household*

$88

$968

$70

$770

Plus 1**

$25

$275

$20

$220

Adult (18–59)

$78

$858

$62

$682

Youth (12–17)

$66

$726

$53

$583

13420 Oak St. • 913.477.7100 Mon.–Fri.: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Senior (60+)

$73

$803

$58

$638

Craig Crossing Park (CCP)

Household*

$113

$1,243

$90

$990

9145 Woodland Rd.

$30

$330

$25

$275

Freedom Fields (FF)

CORE PASS

PASS

Plus 1** DAY PASS Single Punch card

$10 per day

$8 per day

$90 for 10 visits

$72 for 10 visits

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIPS ARE 12 MONTHS FOR THE PRICE OF 11 *Max of five individuals at same address (ages 3+). **Price is per person added to an adult or senior membership, or for the sixth and up person on a household membership.

•

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

•

Kids 2 and under are free for memberships and passes.

PARKS & RECREATION FACILITIES IN THIS ISSUE Black Hoof Park (BHP) 9053 Monticello Rd.

Lenexa Community Center (CC)

83rd Street and Monticello Road

Little Mill Creek Park Fields (MCF) 7898 Cottonwood St.

Lenexa Rec Center (REC)

17201 W. 87th St. Pkwy. • 913.477.PLAY (7529) Mon.–Fri.: 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. • Sat.: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. • Sun: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Lenexa Senior Center (SC)

13425 Walnut St. • 913.477.7100

Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park (SKP)

87th Street Parkway and Lackman Road LENEXA.COM/GETACTIVE

23

Parks & Amenities Amenity can be reserved

74

Central Green Park

11.6

Craig Crossing Park

16.8 • •

3.5

Green Prairie Park

1.3

Heritage Forest Park

18.6

Hidden Woods Park

16.3

John McNerney Park

1.5

Kickapoo Park

1.2

Lackman Park

4.9 47.1

Manchester Park

5

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19.5

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1.4

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0.8

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0.8

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RESTROOMS: Park restrooms open mid-April–October (weather permitting).

Portable toilets available November–mid-April.

ink

PARK HOURS: 5 a.m.–11 p.m.

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RECREATION PROGRAM GUIDE

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LENEXA.COM/GETACTIVE

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Drop-in Activities SUMMER 2022 This schedule reflects drop-in activities at our three main Parks & Recreation facilities from June–August.

No registration is required for these recurring activities. Schedule is subject to change.

LENEXA COMMUNITY CENTER ACTIVITIES $1 UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

13420 OAK ST. / 913.477.7100 TIME

Gym for Me: Toys, balls and more provided. Adult supervision required. $2

M

T

9–11 a.m.

W

TH

•

3:30–5 p.m.

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

3:30–5 p.m.

•

10:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

• •

noon–3:30 p.m.

Pickleball: A low-impact, high-energy doubles racket sport that blends tennis, badminton and pingpong. $2

18+

•

16+

•

8:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

Pingpong: All equipment provided.

Senior Men’s Basketball: Shoot baskets or enjoy a pickup game. Balls provided.

AGES 5 & under

•

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

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

F

11 a.m.–3 p.m.

•

10:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

•

•

•

16+ 55+

LENEXA REC CENTER FREE FOR MEMBERS / $2 FOR NONMEMBERS UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED Pickleball: A low-impact, high-energy doubles racket sport that blends tennis, badminton and pingpong.

Splash With Me: Adult supervision required. Fee for child and guardian nonmembers.

17201 W. 87TH ST. PKWY. / 913.477.7529 TIME

M

T

W

TH

F

5–7 a.m.

•

•

•

•

•

10–11:30 a.m.

•

•

•

•

•

AGES

5 & under

LENEXA SENIOR CENTER ACTIVITIES FREE UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED / AGES 55+ TIME

M

T

W

12:30 p.m.

Birthday entertainment

12:15 p.m.

2nd

12:30–3:30 p.m.

•

Card and board games

9–11:30 a.m.

F

TIME

M

T

W

TH

F

12:30–3:30 p.m.

•

•

•

•

•

Mahjong

1 p.m.

•

•

Movie Mondays

12:30

•

•

Pinochle

•

Bingo: prizes awarded!

Bridge: no 2nd Wed. 50¢

TH

13425 WALNUT ST. / 913.477.7100

•

•

Card and board games

•

•

12:30–3:30 p.m.

LENEXA.COM/GETACTIVE

• 25

Youth LEGO Camps (Ages 5–12)

CAMPS NEW: Buddy Pegs: Learn to Pedal Camp (Ages 5–10)

At Buddy Pegs, children love every stage of learning to ride thanks to certified coaches who weave our unique Learn to Pedal curriculum into play-based challenges and games. Students learn the fundamentals of balancing a bike without pedals (no training wheels) thanks to our nopedal glide method. This helps develop muscle memory and confidence needed to pedal independently. Once the class is pedaling and braking safely on their own, they’ll learn to ride safely in a group, alongside other trail users.

Participants will expand their cycling knowledge, skills and distance. The series culminates with a destination ride (parents welcome). #301401 T–F

7/5–7/8

9 a.m.–noon

$180

CCP

M–F

7/25–7/29

9 a.m.–noon

$225

MCF

NEW: Buddy Pegs: BMX STEM Camp (Ages 7–10)

Participants use BMX bikes to perform experiments all while exploring the world of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math). Concepts such as force, friction, circumference, motion and momentum are all part of this hands-on program. During camp, kids will receive equal parts education and exercise while building confidence and teamwork as they work both independently and with a partner. The BMX STEM camp is best suited for children who know how to ride a bike. #301402 M–F

26

7/11–7/15

9 a.m.–noon

RECREATION PROGRAM GUIDE

$225

Unplugged Gaming Using LEGO Materials (ages 5–6): In this arcade inspired experience, our Play-Well instructors will help make your favorite video game adventures a reality. Using LEGO, we can build gokarts to race Mario, blast asteroids with Star Fox, build neighborhoods with your favorite Animal Crossing friends and join Link to restore peace to Hyrule. #501403 Next Level Gaming with LEGO (Ages 7–12): Give the controller a rest and put your engineering skills to the test by barrel-blasting with Donkey Kong, flinging fireballs with Mario and battling foes with Kirby. Under the guidance of a Play-Well instructor, you’ll gear up to take down the final boss. #501404 Pokémon Engineering with LEGO Materials (Ages 5–6): Join our enthusiastic Play-Well instructors as we build and catch our favorite Pokémon, rescue Pikachu from Team Rocket, take a ride on the S.S. Anne to uncover rare and mystic Pokémon and battle to see who will hold the title of Pokémon Master. #501403 Pokémon Master Engineering with LEGO Materials (Ages 7–12): In the race to be crowned the Ultimate Pokémon Champion, we need your help! Learn to build your favorite Pokémon, level up by teaching them special moves, evolve them into more powerful version and come face to face with the current champion in an epic battle for the title. #501404 M–F

Upplugged Gaming: 8/1–8/5

9 a.m.–noon

$165

REC

M–F

Next Level Gaming: 8/1–8/5

1–4 p.m.

$165

REC

M–W

Pokémon Engineering: 8/8–8/10

9 a.m.–noon

$115

REC

M–W

Pokémon Master Engineering: 8/8–8/10

1–4 p.m.

$115

REC

MCF

LENEXA.COM/GETACTIVE

26

Mad Science Camps (Ages 7–12)

Crazy Chemistry: Investigate chemical reactions happening all around us in the kitchen, the laundry, the garden, even the wall! Young scientists will build crystals; make sidewalk chalk, bath fizzers and a chromatography T-shirt; investigate water-absorbing chemicals; and use chemical reactions to make their own ice cream.

Jr. Engineers: Young engineers will have a full day of building and testing structures out of many different materials! They check out pyramids, arches, inflatable beams, and build bridges and skyscrapers, plus play games and puzzles with shapes and structures.

ENRICHMENT Art Classes (Ages 6–12)

July: 3D Design. Create with no fear! Apply collage, printmaking, sculpture, clay and other messy media to create 2D and 3D art projects.

August: Draw. Build basic drawing skills to create art on various papers and surfaces. Try easy techniques and explore media using pencils, pens, pastels and more.

Radical Reactions: Find out what stomach acids do with our popper stoppers and liquid ooze. Discover how a clock can run on soda or water without batteries. #501419

September: Paint. Join a collision of color and master the methods of acrylic and watercolor painting. Practice the basics and explore the possibilities. #501201 W

7/6–7/20

6:30–7:30 p.m.

$30

REC

M

Crazy Chemistry: 8/8

9 a.m.–4 p.m.

$70

REC

TH

7/7–7/21

6:30–7:30 p.m.

$30

REC

T

Jr. Engineers: 8/9

9 a.m.–4 p.m.

$70

REC

W

8/3–8/17

6:30–7:30 p.m.

$30

REC

W

Radical Reactions: 8/10

9 a.m.–4 p.m.

$70

REC

TH

8/4–8/18

6:30–7:30 p.m.

$30

REC

W

9/7–9/21

6:30–7:30 p.m.

$30

REC

TH

9/8–9/22

6:30–7:30 p.m.

$30

REC

NEW: Chess After School Program (Ages 6–12)

Join us for Chess Camp by Kansas City Chess Club!

This camp introduces youth to chess strategy and tactics while having fun. Certified staff will show beginners through advanced students how to improve their play.

Daily activities include casual play, chess lessons and training exercises, national-rated competition games, building Lego chess sets and chessboards, Bughouse and Fischer Random Chess. Each student will receive a chess workbook, chess medal and T-shirt. #501405 W

8/24–10/12

3:45–4:45 p.m.

$165

REC

Preschool Pals (Ages 3.5–5)

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

9/6–9/29

9–11 a.m.

$17/day

REC

Young Explorers (Ages 3.5–6)

Learn about nature with songs, games, art, stories and hands-on activities! Each class will find out what’s in the mystery bag. #501303 TH

Community Helpers, Cats and Creepy Crawlers: 8/4–8/18

9–11 a.m.

$38

LENEXA.COM/GETACTIVE

BHP

27

COACH PITCH WENDY DELZEIT

SPORTS/FITNESS Happy Feet Soccer (Ages 3–5)

Get your feet a-kickin’! Soccer development is taught through stories, songs and games that promote social and gross motor skills, along with creative soccer techniques. #501102 M

7/11–8/1

11:30 a.m.–noon

$45

REC

M

8/8–8/29

11:30 a.m.–noon

$45

REC

M

9/12–10/3

11:30 a.m.–noon

$45

REC

Coach Pitch Baseball (Ages 6–8)

This co-ed recreational league focuses on improving fundamentals and teamwork while having fun! Participants receive a Lenexa Parks & Recreation T-shirt as their uniform.

Coaches will umpire the games. #501126 T

8/9–9/27

6–7:30 p.m.

$65

FF

Karate (Ages 5+)

Students progress through karate ranks in Shindo Jinen Ryu, a traditional Japanese karate style by refining basic techniques, working on self-defense and learning competition-style kata (form). Upcoming sessions: July 6–30, Aug. 3–Sept. 1. Attend unlimited classes in each session for $55. Additional siblings receive 10% discount.

Uniforms: $25; Tests: $35 each. #501113 Beginners W

Ongoing

5:30–6:30 p.m.*

Fees above

REC

S

Ongoing

9–10 a.m.

Fees above

REC

Intermediate W/TH/F

Ongoing

6:30–7:30 p.m.*

Fees above

REC

S

Ongoing

10–11 a.m.

Fees above

REC

Advanced W/TH/F

Ongoing

7:30–8:30 p.m.*

Fees above

REC

S

Ongoing

11 a.m.–noon

Fees above

REC

*Wednesday classes start 15 minutes later in July.

VOLUNTEER COACHES NEEDED!

We’re looking for parent coaches for T-Ball, Coach Pitch, Soccer and Flag Football. Curriculum provided.

Receive a 20% discount off your child’s registration (must coach at least five games and attend the coaches meeting). If interested, contact Marisa Shartzer at mshartzer@lenexa.com.

28

RECREATION PROGRAM GUIDE

SHINING STARS DANCE RECITAL JANET LIEN

Shining Stars Dance (Ages 3–18)

Introduce your child to a variety of dance styles with Miss Tauna. In addition to instruction in tap, ballet, tumbling, acrobatics, jazz, hip hop and leaps and turns, Shining Stars will help build self-confidence, respect for self and others, coordination of mind and body and much more! Additional siblings receive 10% discount. #501106 Combo Ages 3–4

Combo Ages 6–11

W

7/6–7/27

4:30–5:15 p.m.

$48

CC

S

7/9–7/30

10:15–11 a.m.

$36

CC

M

7/11–7/25

4:30–5:15 p.m.

$36

CC

S

8/13–8/27

10:15–11 a.m.

$36

CC

M

8/1–8/29

4:30–5:15 p.m.

$60

CC

W

8/31–8/31

4:30–5:15 p.m.

$50

CC

Combo Ages 3–5

Combo Ages 7–10 W

7/6–7/27

6–6:45 p.m.

$48

CC

M

7/11–7/25

6–6:45 p.m.

$36

CC

S

7/9–7/30

9:30–10:15 a.m.

$36

CC

M

8/1–8/29

6–6:45 p.m.

$60

CC

S

8/13–8/27

9:30–10:15 a.m.

$36

CC

W

8/3–8/31

6–6:45 p.m.

$60

CC

Combo Ages 5–6

Combo Ages 11–17

W

7/6–7/27

5:15–6 p.m.

$48

CC

M

7/11–7/27

6:45–7:30 p.m.

$36

CC

M

7/11–7/25

5:15–6 p.m.

$36

CC

T

7/5–7/26

6:45–7:30 p.m.

$48

CC

M

8/1–8/29

5:15–6 p.m.

$60

CC

M

8/1–8/29

6:45–7:30 p.m.

$60

CC

W

8/3–8/31

5:15–6 p.m.

$60

CC

T

8/2–8/30

6:45–7:30 p.m.

$60

CC

Combo Ages 6–10

Acro Ages 6–12

T

7/5–7/26

4:30–5:15 p.m.

$48

CC

T

7/5–7/26

5:15–6 p.m.

$48

CC

TH

7/7–7/28

4:30–5:15 p.m.

$48

CC

TH

7/7–7/28

5:15–6 p.m.

$48

CC

T

8/2–8/30

4:30–5:15 p.m.

$60

CC

T

8/2–8/30

5:15–6 p.m.

$60

CC

TH

8/4–9/1

4:30–5:15 p.m.

$60

CC

TH

8/4–9/1

5:15–6 p.m.

$60

CC

LENEXA.COM/GETACTIVE

29

SWIM LESSONS WENDY DELZEIT

T-BALL WENDY DELZEIT

YOUTH SOCCER WENDY DELZEIT

Youth Soccer League (Ages 3–10

Start Smart Football (Ages 3–6)

Hut, hut hike! Children will learn the fundamentals of throwing, catching and other football-related movements. #101109 M

7/25–8/29

5:30–6:15 p.m.

$30

CC

M

7/25–8/29

6:30–7:15 p.m.

$30

CC

T-Ball (Ages 4–5)

Introduce your child to this popular sport through a fun league! Teams consist of eight to 12 players led by parent volunteer coaches. Each game starts with a 30-minute practice, followed by a 60-minute game. All equipment provided, along with a team T-shirt to keep. #301118 TH

8/11–9/15

6–7:30 p.m.

$65

FF

Youth Flag Football (Ages 7–9)

This recreational co-ed league will have weekly practices followed by a game. Teams will consist of six–eight players with five players on the field at a time. All participants will need to provide their own mouth guard.

All other equipment will be provided, including a team T-shirt to keep. #501148 S

9/10–10/29

9–10 a.m.

$65

MCF

Youth Small Group Training (Ages 10–16)

Help your child learn the fundamentals of strength and cardio endurance training. This class introduces a fun and exciting way to participate in a non-competitive exercise program built just for their age group and ability level. #501158

30

Introduce your child to this popular sport through a fun, 3 v. 3 soccer league. Teams consist of five or six players and are led by parent volunteer coaches. Each game begins with practice, followed by a game. All equipment is provided, along with a team jersey to keep. Shin guards are required; rubber cleats optional. #201111 S

9/10–10/15

Ages 3–4: 11–11:50 a.m.

$50

MCF

S

9/10–10/29

Ages 5–6: 9–9:50 a.m.

$65

MCF

S

9/10–10/29

Ages 7–8: 10–10:50 a.m.

$65

MCF

S

9/10/10/29

Ages 9–10: 11 a.m.–noon

$65

MCF

Youth Tennis Lessons (Ages 6–13)

Whether your child is new to the sport or working to improve their play, these tennis lessons taught by Dan Wellington will take them to the next level. Participants should bring their own rackets; all other equipment provided. #501110 W

7/6–7/27

5:30–6:30 p.m.

$90

SKP

W

8/3–8/24

5:30–6:30 p.m.

$90

SKP

W

9/7–9/28

5:30–6:30 p.m.

$90

SKP

Youth Ultimate Frisbee (Ages 8–18)

Sign up to play this fast-action, non-contact field sport that combines elements of soccer, basketball and football! The coaches — experienced ultimate players — evaluate players during a scrimmage the first week, followed by a draft.

High school teams can play together and will be assigned a coach to help as needed. Games last 75 minutes. Each participant receives regulation disc and jersey. Cleats recommended; all other equipment provided. #301117

M

7/11–8/1

5:15–6 p.m.

$40

REC

W

9/7–11/2

Ages 8–11: 8–9:30 a.m.

$75

LMC

M

8/8–8/29

5:15–6 p.m.

$40

REC

W

9/7–11/2

Ages 12–15: 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

$75

LMC

M

9/12–10/3

5:15–6 p.m.

$40

REC

W

9/7–11/2

Ages 16–18: 1:30–4:30 p.m.

$75

LMC

RECREATION PROGRAM GUIDE

LENEXA.COM/GETACTIVE

30

SWIM LESSON WENDY DELZEIT

Aquatics

Preschool 3 (Ages 4–5)

Student must be comfortable swimming front stroke and swimming on their back. #504600

Level 1 (Ages 6+)

GROUP SWIM & DIVE LESSONS

Students learn the basics of swimming. #504601

Level 2 (Ages 6+)

Lenexa offers American Red Cross Swim Lessons at a variety of skill levels (listed below). Find a skill-appropriate session that works for your schedule in the Aquatics section at Lenexa.com/GetActive. Enrollment opens at 8 a.m. Aug. 22.

S

9/10–10/29

Mornings

$55; members: $50

REC

T/TH

9/12–10/6

Evenings

$55; members: $50

REC

Platform Diving Lessons (Ages 10–17)

Get acquainted with basic diving skills and techniques, both on land and platform. Must be able to recover and swim without assistance, perform basic diving skills and a front or back flip off a 1-meter diving board. #504612

Parent/Child (Ages 6 months–3 years)

The purpose of this course is to foster a high comfort level in the water for very young children while at the same time training parents and caregivers in water safety and drowning prevention. #504598

Toddler (Ages 3+)

Your child will become acquainted with the water and basic water skills using songs and games. #504599

Preschool 1 (Ages 4–5)

Your child will become acquainted with the water and basic water skills. #504600

Preschool 2 (Ages 4–5)

Student must be able to float on front and back and put head under water. #504600

Student must willingly submerge and float on their front and back with assistance. #504602

Level 3 (Ages 6+)

Student must float, glide and swim a basic stroke on their front and back independently. #504603

Level 4 (Ages 8+)

Student must front crawl, freestyle, swim on back, swim using the breaststroke kick and dive from a sitting or kneeling position. #504604

Level 5 (Ages 8+)

Student must swim breaststroke, sidestroke, backstroke, butterfly, tread water and dive. #504605

Level 6 (Ages 8+)

Student must swim continuously using a variety of strokes, turns and survival skills. #504606

PRIVATE & SEMIPRIVATE SWIM LESSONS Our swim instructors will create a program to help students reach their personalized swimming goals. Semiprivate lessons are available for two participants who are at a similar swimming level. Lessons are offered on Sunday mornings and Monday–Wednesday evenings.

Private Lessons Semiprivate Lessons

Four 30-minute sessions: $108; members: $100

REC

Four 30-minute sessions: $76; members: $70 (rate per person)

REC

LENEXA.COM/GETACTIVE

31

Adult

FREE GROUP X CLASSES for teachers and healthcare workers in August!

Show your employee ID to get into any drop-in fitness class at the Lenexa Rec Center for free all month long. Check out the latest class schedule at Lenexa.com/GroupX.

ENRICHMENT Cooking for Health (Ages 16+)

Looking for new ways to improve your health? Learn more about foods and products that will nourish us! #502303 Make Your Own Natural Personal Care Products: Learn which natural ingredients to use to make your own body products. We’ll discuss how to make your own shampoo, conditioner and detangler, body butter, deodorant and facial cleanser/toner. Taught by Lenexa Farmers Market vendor Stephanie Poetter.

Sunflower Writers Workshop (Ages 16+)

Amplify your creative strengths and establish confidence in your own voice. The first half of each virtual workshop is dedicated to active writing practice through prompts.

Then, share or read what you’re working on. Led by Poet Jen Harris. Sponsored by the Lenexa Arts Council in partnership with The Writing Workshop KC. #502201

Using Abundant Summer Produce: We’ll discuss many types of food preservation to make the summer last long, including canning your food: juice, jam/jelly/preserves, butters, pasta sauce, chutney, pie filling, sauce, syrup, salsa and more! Taught by Stephanie Poetter.

TH

7/21

7–9 p.m.

Free

Online via Zoom

TH

8/18

7–9 p.m.

Free

Online via Zoom

TH

9/15

7–9 p.m.

Free

Online via Zoom

Make Your Own Kombucha: Learn the history and benefits of kombucha tea brewing as we go through the process of home brewing on your own and observe the process from start to finish. Try samples to explore the levels of fizziness depending on the age of your kombucha.

Each person will leave with a scoby starter to take home.

Taught by Laura Ehrlich.

SPORTS/FITNESS Coffee, Walk & Talk

Join other Lenexa residents to walk on local trails. Walk about two miles at a leisurely pace. The group will share coffee location with new participants. #503301

TH

Make Your Own Natural Personal Care Products: 7/7

6:30–8:30 p.m.

$30

CH

T

July: Gary Haller Trail (Northgate access)

8:30 a.m.

Free, plus cost of coffee Free, plus cost of coffee

Using Abundant Summer Produce: 8/4

6:30–8:30 p.m.

$30

CH

T August: Little Mill Creek Park (79th and Cottonwood)

8:30 a.m.

TH

8:30 a.m.

Free, plus cost of coffee

Make Your Own Kombucha: 8/18

7–8:15 p.m.

TH 32

T

RECREATION PROGRAM GUIDE

$15

REC

September: Indian Creek Recreation Center (103rd and Metcalf)

LENEXA.COM/GETACTIVE

32

Senior EDUCATION How to Maximize Your Social Security (Ages 55+) Learn key strategies on why, how and when to initiate your benefits. Rick O’Neal from Nelson Company Wealth Management presents information on Social Security benefits and when you can start collecting them. #5031016 W

7/20

6:30–7:30 p.m.

Free

SC

Chronic Disease Management (Ages 50+)

Karate (Ages 18+)

Students progress through the ranks in Shindo Jinen Ryu, a traditional Japanese karate style, by refining basic techniques, working on self-defense and learning competition-style kata (form). Upcoming sessions: July 6–30 and Aug. 3–Sept. 1.

Attend unlimited classes in each session for $55. #501113 TH

Ongoing

7:30–8:30 p.m.

Fees above

REC

S

Ongoing

11 a.m.–noon

Fees above

REC

Shining Stars Adult Tap (Ages 18+)

Tap dancing is a lively and entertaining dance form that can help you increase strength, flexibility and coordination while lowering stress levels. All levels welcome. Wear comfortable attire. #502112 T

Senior Tap: 7/19–8/30

11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

$70

CC

W

Adult Tap: 8/3–8/31

6:45–7:30 p.m.

$50

CC

NEW: Stay Fit Small Group Training (Ages 18+)

Life can get busy sometimes, and we all have reasons to not make time for ourselves. This small group will give you accountability through two weekly workouts with others just like you, led by a certified personal trainer to help you establish short-term and long-term goals. These training sessions will provide you with an all-inclusive program of resistance, cardiovascular and core training, as well as stretching and mobility work. #502012

Learn how to manage your chronic disease (heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, depression, asthma, bronchitis, emphysema) and other physical and mental health conditions. This evidence-based workshop is part of the self-management programs developed by Stanford University’s Division of Family and Community Medicine. It will give you the skills to coordinate all that is needed to manage your health and stay active in life. #203104 TH

9/1–10/6

12:20–3 p.m.

$5

SC

Senior Wellness (Ages 50+)

Three Ways to Improve Your Health: Learn three ways to improve your overall health in order to have a higher quality of life. Sponsored by Kansas City Medicine Partners Physician Clinic at Lakeview Village.

Diabetes — General Nutrition and Exercise: In this informative seminar, Lakeview Village of Lenexa will educate us about how to manage it, give tips on what to eat and provide exercise tips for diabetics. #2031023 W

Three Ways to Improve Your Health: 7/27

10–11 a.m.

Free

SC

W

Diabetes — General Nutrition and Exercise: 8/31

10–11 a.m.

Free

SC

Solving the Medicare Puzzle (Ages 55+)

Chris Goodwin of Insurance Pros will teach what is covered by Medicare Part A, B & D, how to supplement this coverage and the timelines for enrollment. You should walk away from this session understanding what Medicare coverage is the right fit for you and how to make sure you are properly enrolled on an ongoing basis. #5031003

M/W

7/11–8/3

6–7 p.m.

$125

REC

T

7/26

6:30–8 p.m.

Free

SC

M/W

8/8–8/31

6–7 p.m.

$125

REC

T

8/23

6:30–8 p.m.

Free

SC

LENEXA.COM/GETACTIVE

33

SENIOR CENTER ACTIVITIES

Chair Yoga (Ages 55+)

Hooked on Books (Ages 18+)

Attention book lovers! Join us each month to discuss a new book. Members choose the books and facilitate discussion. Open to seniors and adults. #503201 TH

“The Other Einstein” by Marie Benedict: 7/28

1–2 p.m.

Free

SC

TH

“Finding Dorothy” by Elizabeth Letts: 8/25

1–2 p.m.

Free

SC

TH

“The President is Missing” by James Patterson: 9/22

1–2 p.m.

Free

SC

Senior Birthday Entertainment (Ages 55+)

Enjoy free entertainment and join the birthday celebration!

If you desire a meal from Johnson County Nutrition, call 813.888.6141 between 9 a.m. 11 a.m. at least 24 hours in advance. Meal starts at 11:30 a.m. #503401 W

Ray Keller: 7/13

12:15–1:15 p.m.

Free

SC

W

Alligator Shoes: 8/10

12:15–1:15 p.m.

Free

SC

W

Michelle Hawkins: 9/14

12:15–1:15 p.m.

Free

SC

Senior Potluck: Summer Picnic Theme (Ages 55+) Enjoy great food, fellowship and fun games! Bring a dish to share for 12–15 people (drinks provided). Please call 913.477.7100 to sign up. #503403 S

7/23

noon–3 p.m.

$1

SPORTS/FITNESS This practice is experienced seated on a chair and using the chair for support while standing. Benefits can include improved breathing capacity, muscle endurance, flexibility, balance and feeling good overall. No yoga experience required. All levels welcome. #503104 F

Ongoing

9–10 a.m.

$40/10-class card

CC

Senior Pep Fitness (Ages 55+)

Get energized and gain cardiovascular endurance, flexibility and strength! This upbeat exercise program will help you achieve your health goals. All fitness levels welcome. Join any time. #503103 T/TH

Ongoing

9:30–10:30 a.m.

$35/10-class card

CC

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

Interested in losing weight? TOPS offers weekly meetings with private weigh-in, healthy eating programs and information and group support with contests and recognition. A TOPS eating plan will be available along with healthy recipes and weight tracking. To register, you must call 913.477.7100. #403109 W

Ongoing

10–11 a.m.

$54 new members; $42 renewing members

SC

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HOT MEALS AT THE SENIOR CENTER LENEXA SENIOR CENTER BILL HARRISON

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RECREATION PROGRAM GUIDE

Johnson County Nutrition Services serves hot lunches in a community setting at the Lenexa Senior Center.

Meals are available on weekdays at 11:30 a.m. to people age 60 and older. Call 913.888.6141 between 9 and 10 a.m. the day before to reserve a meal. Suggested donation is $3.

NA-NEX-SE SCULPTURE BILL HARRISON

Trips

Unless otherwise noted, register for trips by calling 913.477.7100. For more details, call 913.477.7134.

Lunch Bunch (Ages 50+)

Travel once a month to some of Kansas City’s finest restaurants, from the best-known hot spots to the best-kept secrets. Cost of meal at participant’s expense. meet at the restaurant at 11:15 a.m. or take transportation from the Senior Center (departs at 10:30 a.m.; $5 per person round trip). Must register by calling 913.477.7134 weekdays between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. #503402 TH

Paulo & Bill (Shawnee): 7/14

11:15 a.m.–1 p.m.

Fees above

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Jack Stack (Lenexa): 8/11

11:15 a.m.–1 p.m.

Fees above

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Sac & Fox Casino (Ages 21+)

Join us as we journey down to Powhattan, Kansas, to try our luck at both slots (over 600 machines) and gaming tables. Optional bingo play available from 1:30–3:30 p.m. Each participant receives $15 in free slot play and an additional $25 if it is your first visit and $10 if it is your birthday month. #205801 W

7/20

8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

$25

Register by 7/15

NEW: History Bus Tour of Lenexa (Ages 18+)

Led by one of Lenexa’s most beloved storytellers, Octave Chanute (portrayed by Bill Nicks), this intimate, two-hour shuttle tour will wind through Old Town and visit several parks, historic homes, buildings and sites. Learn about our namesake Na-Nex-Se, as well as Wild Bill Hickok and J.C. Nichols’ connections to Lenexa. Or how spinach and barbecue influenced this town. The tour includes a 30-minute stop at the Lenexa civic campus. Held in partnership with the Lenexa Historical Society. #505204 S

7/23

10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

$18.69

Register by 7/21

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8/20

10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

$18.69

Register by 8/18

New Theatre & Restaurant: “Freaky Friday, The Musical” (Ages 50+) This show — a new musical adaptation of the beloved novel and hit Disney films — is a heartfelt, comedic and unexpectedly emotional update. When an overworked mother and her teenage daughter magically swap bodies, they have just one day to put things right again.

Meet at the theatre at 11 a.m. or reserve transportation for $5 and meet at the Lenexa Senior Center at 10:30 a.m. Lunch served at 11:45 a.m. #505201 W

8/3

11 a.m.–3 p.m.

$42

Register by 7/5

Chestnut Fine Arts Center: “Everything is Beautiful” (Ages 50+)

Enjoy a blast from the past! Come listen to some favorite songs from the 60’s and 70’s, including “Blowin’ in the Wind,” “It’s Now or Never,” “Unchained Melody,” “Rhinestone Cowboy,” plus so many more! Optional lunch (at your own cost) at Jack Stack in Lenexa prior to the show. Meet at the restaurant at 11 a.m. or reserve transportation for $5 and meet at the Lenexa Senior Center at 10:30 a.m. Show begins at 2 p.m. #505400 S

8/27

10:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

$27

Register by 8/10

Golden Eagle Casino (Ages 21+)

Head up to Golden Eagle Casino for four hours of gaming. The bus group will receive $15 on their players card plus 10% off lunch. Play bingo from 1:30–3:30 p.m. #205800 W

8/31

8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

$25

Register by 8/24

LENEXA.COM/GETACTIVE

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PRSRT MKTG U.S. Postage P A I D Kansas City, MO Permit No. 32

17101 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

Lenexa, KS 66219

CITY OFFICIALS Mayor Mike Boehm

City Manager Beccy Yocham

City Council Ward 1 Joe Karlin Courtney Eiterich

City Council Ward 3 Dan Roh Melanie Arroyo

City Council Ward 2 Tom Nolte Bill Nicks

City Council Ward 4 Julie Sayers Craig Denny

Lenexa is an equal housing community.

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