Many of us were raised learning that the proper way to read a children’s picture book is from start to finish, and then you’re done. READ from the START (RFTS) turns that assumption on its ear, and shows parents and caregivers how to interact with the books and the children listening to them in a whole new way. This is a free program sponsored by the Missouri Humanities Council. Parents and caregivers who attend two sessions (1 ½ hours each), not only learn valuable techniques for sharing books with their children, but also get a set of eight books.
The crisp mornings and evenings of late summer signal the transition to autumn. This year's autumnal equinox, according to USA.gov, officially arrives at 11:09 p.m. ET, September 22. Ahhh, Autumn ~ its my favorite time of the year for several reasons. First on the list is the return of football. Soccer just doesn't cut it for me. That's probably politically incorrect of me given the excitement the World Cup generated this year.
Fall… What a perfect time to attend some Art festivals and reconnect with your creative self. This weekend is the 79th annual Country Club Plaza Art Festival. There will be 240 artists, three live music stages, and a kid’s art workshop. Wonderful culinary treats will also be available for purchase. Support the Arts in Kansas City by visiting the art festival this weekend.
The Independence Examiner reported that the 2010 International Peace Award has been announced by the Community of Christ Church. Author, co-founder, and executive director of the nonprofit, Central Asia Institute and Pennies for Peace, Greg Mortenson will receive this year's honor.
This weekend is the American Royal Barbeque, and all the celebrities of the barbecue world are going to be there: ribs, chicken, pork, brisket, and that notoriously fickle member of the entourage, beans. The American Royal Barbecue contest is, in the words of Carolyn Wells, Executive Director of the Kansas City Barbeque Society, the largest barbecue competition in the world.
Here's a recent exchange I had with Carolyn Wells concerning the origins of the Kansas City Barbeque Society and the competition going down this weekend.
The City of Blue Springs is proud to host The Wall That Heals commemorating Vietnam War Veterans. The wall arrived in Blue Springs yesterday. It was escorted down 7 Highway to Pink Hill Park. The exhibit opens to visitors Thursday, September 30, and closes Sunday, October 3. Awakening and Reflection Ceremonies are held each day including guest speakers, Color Guard, music, and a fly over at 3:45 PM on Saturday, October 2.
Laughter and smiles were everywhere on Wednesday, September 20th as the Grandview Branch hosted their 1st Annual Community Services Fair. Children were treated to a puppet show by Anitra Steele, and their parents learned about low cost and no cost services available to young families in and around our community. Everyone enjoyed refreshments, and had a chance to pick out a free book to take home with them. Many of them, like our new friend Chase Ashby, were able to sign up for their very first library card. We look forward to the many opportunities Chase will have in the years to come.
The Liberty Branch, including 15 staff and library friends, participated in the Liberty Fall Festival Parade on September 25, 2010. Staff shared candy and library bookmarks with parade watchers. We enjoyed seeing our local community attend the parade, and recognized many who regularly visit the library. It’s always a pleasure to see our library friends!
Ever wonder where to go when you need to find information about your city? What about if you want to explore all the culture and entertainment Kansas City has to offer, but not sure where to start?
