The Wyandotte Daily news is interested in news of your community event in Wyandotte County. Send information to [email protected] and include your name and phone number. Please send in planned events about a week before the event if possible. In the event of inclement weather, call to see if the event is still planned.
Bert Cantwell memorial interchange to be dedicated Sunday
The interchange at 110th and I-70 will be dedicated in a ceremony June 3 in honor of Cantwell’s contributions to the state and the nation. Cantwell, who died in 1996, was the former sheriff of Wyandotte County, also was superintendent of the Kansas Highway Patrol and was a U.S. Marshal. He also served in community leadership positions with the Kansas City, Kansas, Area Chamber of Commerce. The Bert Cantwell memorial interchange signs were funded by the family and donors, and will be unveiled at the ceremony at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, June 3, at the interchange. Parking will be available on 110th Street, south of I-70.
Keeler Center to be closed June 4-8
The Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., will be closed from June 4-8.
El Centro de Mujeres Keeler estará cerrado la semana del 4 a 8 de Junio, 2018. Solo tendremos servicios de consejería, dirección espiritual y grupos de soporte por cita. No habrá programación en la noche.
UG committees to meet June 4
Two Unified Government committees, the Neighborhood and Community Development Committee, and the Economic Development and Finance Committee, are expected to meet starting at 5 p.m. Monday, June 4, in the fifth floor meeting room, City Hall, 701 N. 7th St., Kansas City, Kansas.
State of the Unified Government address to be June 5
Mayor David Alvey plans to give the State of the Government address at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 5, at the Reardon Convention Center, 500 Minnesota Ave., Kansas City, Kansas. The KCK Downtown Rotary Club is the host of the program. After a buffet luncheon at 11:30 a.m., the speech is scheduled at noon. Tickets are available through the mayor’s office at 913-573-5010 or purchase tickets at https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/3441810. Tickets are $26 each. The address will be livestreamed on the Unified Government’s website and also rebroadcast for future viewing on UGTV.
Arts classes offered at Alcott Arts Center
Arts classes will be offered starting June 5 at the Alcott Arts Center, 180 S.18th St., Kansas City, Kansas. The fee is $5 per class. Class sizes will be limited to 10 students, and reservations are necessary to 913-233-2787 or [email protected]. For more information, visit https://www.alcottartscenter.org/.
Stone Lion Puppets to appear at library
“Wind in the Willows,” presented by the Stone Lion Puppets, will be performed at 2 p.m. Tuesday, June 5, at the West Wyandotte Library, 1737 N. 82nd. This musical presentation is based on the famous children’s story by Kenneth Grahame. For more information, see www.kckpl.org.
Mindfulness and meditation program begins June 6
A mindfulness and meditation program will begin at noon June 6 at the Main Kansas City, Kansas, Public Library, 625 Minnesota Ave. The class will be held each Wednesday. The 30-minute class will cover simple mindfulness techniques to reduce stress and improve well-being. Some persons have said meditation reduces stress, improves attention, energy and empathy for others. A different meditative technique will be introduced each week, with readings and dialogue. Beginners or those who are experienced at meditation may attend. Chairs are provided, and those attending may bring their own meditation cushions.
BPU to meet June 6
The Board of Public Utilities will meet on Wednesday, June 6, at the BPU offices, 540 Minnesota Ave., Kansas City, Kansas. On the agenda for the work session at 5 p.m. are a board update, general manager update, and an update on bottom ash. On the agenda for the regular meeting at 6 p.m. are a visitors’ time, legislative recap, Wyandotte Economic Development Council update, financial report, board comments, general manager comments and a closed executive session. Also, the BPU will have committee meetings on Wednesday, June 6. The BPU Finance Committee will meet in the 4th floor video conference room from 4:15 to 5 p.m., at the utility’s administration building at 540 Minnesota Ave, Kansas City, Kansas. Those attending must check in first at the front desk in the lobby. Also, there will be a meeting of the BPU Economic Development Committee from 4 to 5 p.m. June 6 in the Board Room also at the BPU administration building, 540 Minnesota Ave, Kansas City, Kansas.
Program on monarch butterflies offered June 7
A class on monarch butterflies will be offered from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, June 7, at the Sunflower Room, Wyandotte County Extension Office, 1208 N. 79th St., Kansas City, Kansas. The class is sponsored by the Wyandotte County Extension Master Gardeners. The class will be taught by Candy Dials and Charlotte VanWormer, Leavenworth County Extension Master Gardeners. Known for their migration from Mexico to Canada each year, monarch butterflies lay their eggs on milkweed while they are on their journey. The monarch population has decreased significantly during the past two decades, in part because of the decrease in native plants, including milkweed, on which their caterpillars feed. The class will discuss how people can help bring back the monarch population. Registration is not required for the class. There will be a $5 fee payable at the door. There will be no fee for certified Extension master gardeners. For more information, call 913-299-9300.
Movies in the parks program begins June 8
Movies in the parks are planned this summer through the Unified Government Parks and Recreation Department. The free movies will begin at 8 p.m. on these dates: June 8, “Ferdinand” at Heathwood Park, July 13, “The Star” at Rosedale Park; and Aug. 3, “Jumanji” at Kaw Point Park. Those attending may bring a blanket or a lawn chair.
Annual kids fishing derby to be June 9 at Wyandotte County Lake
The Ed and Ione Trapp Annual Derby will take place on Saturday, June 9, at Wyandotte County Lake at the Kids Pond, 91st and Leavenworth Road. Registration will begin at 7 a.m. followed by derby fishing from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. and a trophy presentation at 10:30 a.m. Participants should bring their fishing gear. Worms for bait will be provided. A free hot dog coupon will be given to the kids who register. The event is sponsored by the Leavenworth Road Association and Wyandotte County Parks. For more information, call 913-788-3988.
Art exhibit opens Saturday evening at Alcott Arts
An art exhibit is planned Saturday evening, June 9, at the Alcott Arts Center, 180 S. 18th St., Kansas City, Kansas. The group show featuring several artists will run through July 7. A reception with the artists will begin at 6:30 p.m. June 9. Participating artists include: Rickie Kelley, wildlife and pet portrait artist; Juan Dominguez, mixed media artist; Katie and Jeri Hale, crocheted hats, scarves, afghans and more; Noe Cruz, jewelry including semi-precious stones, shells and beads; Amy Chapman and Amy Anderson, arts and crafts including cosmetic bags, hot pads, oven mitts and inspirational plaques. Some items will be for sale. The Alcott Arts Center is not yet ADA accessible. For more information, visit www.alcottartscenter.org or call 913-233-2787.
Program focuses on historical Hispanic culture
Dr. Genovevo Chavez, a historian who has studied Hispanic culture, will be the featured presenter in a program that will focus on the Mexican fiesta at 2 p.m. Sunday, June 10, at the George Meyn Community Center in Wyandotte County Park, Bonner Springs. Rose Marie’s Fiesta Mexicana dancers also will perform. Refreshments will be served.
Retirement reception planned for Dr. Lane
A retirement reception is planned for Dr. Cynthia Lane, superintendent of the Kansas City, Kansas, Public Schools, from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, June 10, at the Kansas City, Kansas, Public Schools Central Office, 2010 N. 59th St. The reception is casual. Guests may come and go. The reception is open to school district staff and the community.
Red Cross blood drive scheduled June 11
Earp Distribution, 2730 S. 98th St., Edwardsville, Kansas, will hold a Red Cross blood drive from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, June 11. For more information, visit www.redcrossblood.org.
Grinter Jamboree to be June 12
The Grinter Jamboree will be held at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 12, at the Grinter Barn, 1400 S. 78th St., Kansas City, Kansas. The MP3 Band is scheduled to perform. Admission will be $5 per person.
Scholarship golf tournament to be held June 13
The Kansas City, Kansas, School Foundation for Excellence will hold the 28th annual Scholarship Golf Tournament on Wednesday, June 13, at the Sunflower Hills Golf Course, 122nd and Riverview Avenue, Bonner Springs. Proceeds will benefit high school seniors and the district’s literacy program. For more information, visit www.kckps.org/index.php/news-releases/950-annual-scholarship-golf-tournament.
Mayor scheduled to speak at Women’s Chamber meeting June 13
Mayor David Alvey is scheduled to be the guest speaker from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 13 at a meeting of the Kansas City, Kansas, Women’s Chamber of Commerce at the Children’s Campus, 444 Minnesota Ave., Kansas City, Kansas. The cost of the luncheon meeting is $20 for members and $25 for nonmembers. To register for the meeting, visit https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07efea0h4n5db74828&oseq=&c=&ch=. For more information, call 913-233-3305.
Fairfax group to meet June 14
The Fairfax Industrial Association will meet from 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, June 14, at BlackJack Tire Supplies, 3260 N. 7th St., Kansas City, Kansas. The guest speakers will be Danica Rome of the Wyandotte Edonomic Development Council and Keely Schneider of Workforce Partnership. They will speak about Workforce Solutions and Fairfax Workforce Connection. The sponsor of the meeting is EJ’s Urban Eatery. The cost of the luncheon is $25. Registration is required by 3 p.m. June 12 to https://fiakck.org/product/june-2018/.
Author to speak at Bonner historic society meeting
Adrian Zink, author of “Hidden History of Kansas,” will appear at the 7 p.m. Thursday, June 14, meeting of the Bonner Springs Historic Preservation Society at the Alden-Harrington Family Event Center, 218 Oak St., Bonner Springs, Kansas. He will give a reading and sign books. The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call 913-441-2665.
UG Commission to meet June 14
The Unified Government Commission is expected to meet at 7 p.m. Thursday, June 14, at the Commission Chambers, lobby level, City Hall, 701 N. 7th St., Kansas City, Kansas. An agenda may be posted online at www.wycokck.org.
KCK school board to hold listening tour June 16
The Kansas City, Kansas, Board of Education will hold a listening tour for the community, the district’s staff, parents and students from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 16, at the Central Office and Training Center, board room, 2010 N. 59th St., Kansas City, Kansas. According to a news release from the school district, the purpose of the listening tour is for the staff, parents, students and community to share what is important to them and their families regarding the Kansas City, Kansas, Public Schools. The school board members will have the chance to hear first-hand from patrons and the community, which will help them set board priorities in the future. Those attending also will have the opportunity to meet the school board.
Forum for Democratic governor candidates to be June 16
A forum for Democratic governor candidates will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 16, at Kansas City Kansas Community College, Jewell Building, upper level, 7250 State Ave. Doors will open at 1:30 p.m. The forum is sponsored by the KCKCC College Democrats and the Wyandotte County Democratic Party.
Blood drive scheduled
A Community Blood Center blood drive is scheduled from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. June 20 and 21 at the University of Kansas, Hixoson Atrium, 3901 Rainbow Blvd., Kansas City, Kansas.
The KCK Street Blues Fest to be held Saturday, June 23
The Kansas City, Kansas, Street Blues Festival will be held Saturday, June 23, at Lavender’s Circle L Ranch, 3924 N. 49th Drive, Kansas City, Kansas, which is north of Leavenworth Road. The event runs from 2 to 11 p.m. Musicians who are scheduled to appear include Ernest James Zydeco, Danny Cox, Joe Miquelon, Norm Liggins and Danita “Little Red” Oliver, Jason Vivone, Jaisson Taylor Group, D.C. Bellamy, 51% Blues Band, Mark and Sue Corbett, Allen Locke and Shannon Basham, Eugene Smiley Blues Band and special guest Millage Gilbert. For more information, visit kckblues.com.
Spiritual direction available
The Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., is offering spiritual direction by appointment. One hour, once a month, may be scheduled at the convenience of the director and directee. Those interested in spiritual direction by call the Keeler Women’s Center at 913-906-8990 to talk to one of the sisters about scheduling an appointment. The Keeler Center is a ministry of the Benedictine Sisters.
Wyandotte County Museum
For information about the Wyandotte County Museum, 631 N. 126th St., Bonner Springs, call 913-573-5002 or visit https://www.facebook.com/wycomuseum/.
Strawberry Hill Museum
For information about The Strawberry Hill Museum, 720 N. 4th St., Kansas City, Kansas, call 913-371-3264 or visit www.strawberryhillmuseum.org.
Grinter Place Museum
The Grinter Place State Historic Site, 1420 S. 78th St., Kansas City, Kan., is one of the oldest homes in the area, built in 1857. For more information about hours and days it is open, call 913-299-0373 or visit http://www.kshs.org/p/grinter-place-plan-your-visit/15857.
Old Quindaro Museum
The Old Quindaro Museum is at 3432 N. 29th St., Kansas City, Kan. For more information about the museum, call 816-820-3615 or visit https://www.facebook.com/ccoqmuseum/.