Summer is a great time to enjoy family-friendly activities at the Arboretum. Mark your calendars now for these exciting events. Go to www.opabg.org and click on the Classes and Events link for more details and to sign up:
    A series of six Thursday morning classes will combine the beauty of the Arboretum with a "moving meditation" called T'ai Chi Chih. Learn how this gentle form of exercise helps you feel more connected to the earth, to your own essence, and to others around you. Women and men of all ages and physical abilities benefit from this class, led by a very charming and experienced teacher, Lorraine Lepine. Registration required.

Bent Willow Furniture Making Class August 2

    Advance registration is required so that materials can be collected. Learn more about Bim Willow, artist, author, poet and humorist, and this traditional American craft at www.bimwillow.com. 

    Our August wine tasting features Buckley's Wine Market, who will present some well-known varietals from unique terroir-commonly consumed grapes from atypical countries of origin. One lucky guest will win a 3-liter bottle of Cryptic California Red. Everyone will receive a free Buckley's Wine Bag, which allows Buckley's customers to receive a 10% discount on future purchases of six or more bottles of wine. Registration required.

    You won't want to miss this rustic yet elegant first-time event, to be held in the Prairie Restoration area of the Arboretum from 6 to 9 p.m. on September 13.
    Experience cocktails at the Conestoga wagon, a prairie storyteller, a native American flute player, a seated dinner with wine, dessert and coffee, a jazz trio, and a live auction.
    Reserve your tickets soon, as seating is limited. Proceeds will benefit the ongoing Prairie Restoration Project.

     Stroll through the gardens, grab a snack from the Garden Café, and enjoy Music on the Terrace on Thursday evenings in August and September beginning August 7.
 
    This is a concert for everyone, so bring the whole family! Dino O'Dell will perform with a full band from 4 to 5 p.m., and then the KC Ukesters take the stage from 5 to 6 p.m.

    Bring a picnic and a blanket to enjoy this fun concert. Lucy's Kids for Peace will be our special volunteers. A big thank you to Bill and Barbara Patterson and the KC Cares for Kids Walk, which benefits Children's Mercy Cancer Center Auxiliary, in memory of their granddaughter Lucy.