October 2007

HEART OF TEXAS
Home Educators Alliance for Resources and Training of Texas, Inc.

OCTOBER 2007 ISSUE
Home School News and Events

Dear Home School Leaders and Friends,

We are excited to share with you some information about several events that may be of interest to home schoolers in the Greater Dallas/Fort Worth and surrounding North Texas region. Please feel free to pass along this information to the homeschooling families in your network.

If you would like for us to help you spread the news about an event or activity that your group is doing, or if you know of an event or activity that would benefit other home schoolers, please drop us a line at info@HEARTofTex.org so we can include it in the next issue of our bi-weekly e-newsletter.

Thanks so much!

www.HEARTofTex.org

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Home Educators Alliance for Resources and Training of Texas, Inc., (HEART of Texas) is a private, non-profit corporation dedicated to serving the home schooling community. Our mission is to provide leadership, training, and support, as well as to encourage political participation within the home school community through communications, networking activities, and events directed at home school support groups and families in the Greater Dallas/Fort Worth and surrounding North Texas region.

This information is provided as a service to our fellow home schoolers. HEART of Texas does not necessarily endorse, warrant, or represent any of the activities, events, or organizations listed, or their content, views, opinions, or recommendations. Please use your own judgment when considering taking part in or attending any of these events or activities or visiting any of the websites or links provided. HEART of Texas assumes no responsibility for the content of any ads, promises made, or the quality/reliability of the products or services offered.

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~~October Highlights~~

OCTOBER 3
HOME SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE AT VELOCITY SPORTS IN HIGHLAND PARK

Join us for an afternoon of Free Food, Fun, and Fitness!

Time: 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Location: Velocity Sports Performance in Highland Park
7830 N. Central Expressway
Dallas, TX 75206

Cost: FREE

RSVP: Mark Cox at 214-739-1122

Details: We are very excited to announce that Velocity Sports Performance in Highland Park has partnered with HEART of Texas to offer special discounts to our members. They will begin offering home school physical education courses in October!

They will host a Home School Open House, and ALL homeschoolers are invited! It's FREE, so bring your whole family for an afternoon of food, fun, and fitness!

* Come meet the coaches
* Check out their facilities
* Free food and games
* Meet other home school families in your area

To Learn More About Velocity Sports:
www.velocitysp.com/highlandpark

To Find Out About HEART of Texas Membership:
Email us at info@heartoftex.org
Or visit www.heartoftex.org and view our membership page.

HEART of Texas is working with other retailers and organizations in the north Texas to create special partnership discounts for HEART of Texas members, and will be announcing those very soon!

View Newsletter Headers

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OCTOBER
REGISTER FOR PSAT/NMSQT ASAP – CALL YOUR LOCAL PUBLIC SCHOOL
FOR MORE INFORMATION

The PSAT/NMSQT, also known as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, is a standardized test that provides practice for the SAT. Additionally, the PSAT/NMSQT gives 11^th graders a chance to enter the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) scholarship programs. A student may take the test for practice in the years preceding his 11^th grade year, but the student’s test score will count toward the National Merit Scholarship program only in his 11^th grade year.

OCTOBER 17 & 20 --- Test Dates (each school only offers one of these dates)

Registration Deadline: ASAP
Check with your local public high school ASAP for registration information. Most of the schools are accepting registrations beginning the week of September 17.

Schools only offer the test on one of the two official dates. Check with your local public school to find out which date they are offering the test.

By State Law, public schools that offer the PSAT/NMSQT test must allow home schoolers that live within their district to take the test. The law also states that public schools are not permitted to charge home schoolers a higher test fee than they charge their own students.

Here is a copy of the law, which went into effect September 1, 2007, for your reference:

www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/80R/billtext/html/HB01844F.htm

If you contact a school that offers the test and they do not allow your child to register, please contact the Texas Home School Coalition by email at staff@thsc.org. Please include the following information in your correspondence:

Date you contacted the school
School District
School
Name of the person(s) you spoke with
Details of the conversation: reason(s) they give for not allowing your child to test at their school, etc.

For More Information about the PSAT/NMSQT: www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/psat/about.html

To View a Copy of a Letter from THSC President Tim Lambert to Lewisville ISD:

View Newsletter Headers

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OCTOBER 4
HOMESCHOOL DAY AT THE FORT WORTH ZOO

All home-schooled children, and their families, are invited to a fun-filled educational day in the wilds of the Zoo on Thursday, October 4, 2007. Keeper chats and activity stations tailor-made for home-schoolers will be available throughout the park. Enjoy asking keepers your best animal questions around the Zoo's world-class exhibits.

If you register on-site the day of the event, only discounted admission tickets will be available.

Ticket Pick-Up:
Before October 4: You may pick up your receipt and tickets between Monday, September 17, 2007 and Saturday 28, 2007 at Guest Relations during regular Zoo operating hours. Photo identification is required.

October 4: On the day of the event, go to the WILL CALL station located to the right of the Ticket Booth. The WILL CALL station opens at 9:30 a.m. Photo identification is required to pick up your receipt and tickets. The Zoo opens at 10 a.m.
View Newsletter Headers

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OCTOBER 8
HOMESCHOOL ROBIN HOOD DAY CAMP + GUIDED TOUR ---- FOSSIL RIM

Time: 2:00 – 3:30ish p.m.

Cost: Cost will be on a sliding scale. Bring your friends along and reduce your cost.
10-11 people signed up, cost for entire day will be 40 per person,
12-15 people - $30 per person
16-19 people - $25 per person
20 or more - $20 per person
children 2 and under free.

What to Bring: Bring sack lunch to eat at noon. dress as favorite Robin Hood character if you like!
After classes and activities are done, will conclude with guided tour of fossil Rim from 2 - 3:30ish.

For more Details: www.fossilrim.com/visiting/home_school.html
To Register: homeschool@fossilrim.org
or call 254-897-2960 ext. 216

View Newsletter Headers

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OCTOBER 9-10
WILD HOME SCHOOL DAYS AT SHARKAROSA

Registration Deadline --- October 3

Time: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Cost: $5/person
Pre -registration/payment is required.
All registration must be received by Wednesday, October 3rd.

To Download Registration Form: http://www.sharkarosa.com/

Location: Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch

Contact: Sharkarosa@aol.com

Details: Education and conservation groups from around the metroplex are gathering at Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch for two days only to bring North Texas Home Schoolers an incredible WILD ADVENTURE!

A mix of hands-on activities, demonstrations, presentations and good old fashioned fun are all a part of this year's Wild Home School Days! Every participating organization has been hand selected for their continued commitment to the education of our Texas youth.

In addition to the fabulous regular activities Sharkarosa will be offering (Safari Wagon tours, hay rides, train rides and interaction with our amazing educational animals), we've asked some amazing DFW groups to join us!

View Newsletter Headers

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OCTOBER 26-28
REGISTRATION OPEN FOR THSC LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE OCTOBER 26-28

Registration Deadline: October 16

Location: Lakeview Camp and Conference Center

Home School Leaders Are Cordially Invited!

Join leaders from across the state for a time of inspirational and practical workshops about bettering your home school group!

Your group will benefit from the ideas you bring home!

For More Information and to Download Registration Forms: www.thsc.org/retreat/default.asp

View Newsletter Headers

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OCTOBER 29
HOME SCHOOL NATURE JOURNALING EVENT AND TOUR --- FOSSIL RIM

Time: 10 – 4ish

Cost: Cost will be on a sliding scale. Bring your friends along and reduce your cost.
10-11 people signed up, cost for entire day will be 40 per person,
12-15 people - $30 per person
16-19 people - $25 per person
20 or more - $20 per person
children 2 and under free

Learn 4 different nature journaling techniques. During our art class, learn some basic art techniques to enhance your nature journaling experiences. Our bus tour will stop at 3 different locations where we will spend some time drawing.

For more Details: www.fossilrim.com/visiting/home_school.html
To Register: homeschool@fossilrim.org
or call 254-897-2960 ext. 216

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~~What's Inside This Issue ~~

(Click on the links below)

FEATURED ARTICLE

13 Myths About the SAT (part 2 of 2) --- Article by Jean Burk, SAT/PSAT Prep Specialist

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Library Programs at North Texas Libraries --- September

BEST Robotics 2007 Preview: 2021 a Robot Odyssey

THEO Offering Summer SAT Classes, Summer Activities, and Classes for 2007-2008

Classes and Achievement Testing Available at CERC in Rowlett

Homeschoolers East Co-Op Classes --- East Dallas

Legacy Home School Enrichment Program at First Baptist in Euless --- Registration Open

Library Used Book Sales in North Texas --- October

Garland, TX – October 5-6

Fort Worth, TX – October 6-7

Wichita Falls, TX – October 6

Grand Prairie, TX – October 10-14

Copperas Cove, TX – October 13

Denton, TX – October 13

Flower Mound, TX – October 20-21

Arlington, TX – October 25-27

Dallas, TX – October 26-27

Granbury , TX – October 27-28

Cleburne, TX – October

Private One-On-One Tuturing in Mathematics--- www.ed2netlearning.com

Sharkarosa Open-to-the-Public Days --- October

Shows at the Fort Worth Omni Theater --- Closed Until Spring 2008

Shows at the Dallas Imax Theatre -- Museum of Science and Nature – September

Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge Programs --- October

Performances at Casa Manana Children’s Playhouse --- October

Treasure Island --- September 28 – October 4

Charlotte’s Web --- October 26 - November 11

Performances at CATS --- Arlington --- October

Honk, Jr. --- September 28 – October 7

Theater Performances at Artisan Center Theater ---Hurst --- October

No Time for Sergeants --- Through October 13

Little Miss Muffet and the Ditzy Knitting Spider --- Through Oct 12

CATS Home School Theatre Classes --- Arlington --- Registration Open for 2007-2008 School Year

Dallas Children’s Theater --- Dallas --- Coming Soon

A Little House Christmas --- Nov 30-Dec 16
The Nutcracker --- Nov 24-Dec 23
Goodnight Moon – Jan 25 – Mar 2
Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters --- Feb 8 – Feb 24
The House at Pooh Corner --- Feb 29-Mar 30
The Giver --- Mar 28 – Apr 20
Eat (It’s Not About Food) --- Apr 11-May 11
If You Give a Pig a Party --- May 9-May 25

Plano Children’s Theater --- Plano --- Coming Soon

Sound of Music (Musical) --- Nov 2-17
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs --- Nov 30–Dec 15
Laura Ingall’s Christmas --- Dec 7-15
West Side Story (Musical) --- Jan 11-26
Honk, Jr. --- Jan 11-26

Texas Ballet Theater Performances --- October

The Sleeping Beauty – October 20 – 22
The Nutcracker --- November 30-December 16

Fort Worth Museum of Science and History --- Closed until Spring 2008

Dallas Museum of Art Exhibit --- October

Amon Carter Museum Exhibits – October

Kimball Art Museum Exhibit --- Picturing the Bible --- Coming November 18

Texas Discovery Gardens --- October

Maritime Merry Time Tuesdays (Open Homeschool Swim) --- The Colony Aquatic Park --- Tuesdays Through December 18

Day Camps at Camp Tonkawa --- October

Heritage Farmstead Museum --- Plano --- October

Steinway Construction Tour --- Fort Worth, Dallas, Plano --- Through Mid-November

Book It! Reading Program --- Now Enrolling for 2007-2008

Braum’s Book Buddy Reading Program – Now Enrolling for 2007-2008

Smoothing the Way Meetings in North Texas --- October

Arlington – October 23

Athens/Tyler Area – October 16

Denton – October 4

North Richland Hills – October 1

Plano – October 30

Star Parties at Fort Worth Museum of Science and History --- October

Programs at Log Cabin Village --- Fort Worth --- October

Dallas Thunder Homeschool Basketball Organization --- Registration Open

Junior High Girls Basketball Players Needed --- THESA Riders --- ASAP

PSAT/SAT Prep Classes--- www.maryhamilton.us

Volunteers Needed for Little Hands on the Farm --- State Fair of Texas ---- Sept 28 – Oct 21

Keller 4H Club Meetings--- Keller --- October 2 & 13

Home School Open House at Velocity Sports/Highland Park --- Highland Park --- October 3

Homeschool Day at the Fort Worth Zoo --- Fort Worth --- October 4

Lone Star History Day: A Special Day for Homeschoolers --- Dallas Heritage Village – October 5

THESA High School and Junior High Baseball Tryouts --- October 6

Irving 1^st Annual Home School Showcase --- Lee Park Recreation Center – October 6

Farmstead Family Festival --- Heritage Farmstead in Plano --- October 6

Texas Freshwater Fisheries Big Fish Bluegill Tournament --- Athens, TX --- October 6

Homeschool Robin Hood Day Camp -- Fossil Rim -- October 8

Wild Home School Days at Sharkarosa --- October 9 & 10

8-Week SAT Prep Course at Creative Arts in Action ---- Watauga --- Begins October 12

North TX National Engineers Week Future City Competition --- Registration Deadline October 15

Official PSAT/NMSQT Testing Dates – October 17 and 20

HSAA Varsity and Junior Varsity Baseball Tryouts --- Richardson --- October 20, 23, 25, 27

THSC Leadership Training Conference ---- Waxahachie --- October 26-28

Home School Nature Journaling Event and Tour at Fossil Rim --- October 29

Judges Needed for NCFCA Practice Speech and Debate Tournament --- Watauga --- November 17

Teen Pact Leadership School Coming to Texas April 21 – 25 --- Registration Open

Registration Under Way at Tarrant County College for Home School Classes --- FREE MATH ASSESSMENT

Volunteer Opportunities Available for Home School Students in 21 Counties --- American Cancer Society

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FEATURED ARTICLE

13 Myths About the SAT (part 2 of 2)
By Jean Burk

This is the second part of a two-part series. You can find Part 1 of the article in the Mid-September 2007 issue of our newsletter, or by Clicking Here If you would like to subscribe to our newsletter write us at info@heartoftex.org

Myth #6 – You must get every answer right for a perfect score.

False: People who have received perfect scores on the SAT probably skipped several questions, and may have even gotten a few wrong. However, their raw score was significant enough (that means they got enough questions right) to garner them a perfect SAT score.

Myth #7 – SAT questions are in order of difficulty.

False: As a general rule, the questions start off easy and get harder, but truthfully, a lot of them are mixed together, especially in the critical reading and writing section. You may find the very first question the hardest question on the test. Difficulty on this exam is not determined by higher level skills of math and verbal. Hard SAT questions are the ones that students consistently got wrong on a previous experimental section of the test.

Myth #8 – A student only needs a good SAT score in order to get into college.

False: Colleges are looking for well-rounded students. Admissions offices like applicants with plenty of community service, academic awards, volunteer work, and leadership skills. Students who have a proven track record of involvement and dedication are the most sought-after individuals. Regardless of their SAT score, they are looking for students who will be an asset at their school.

Myth #9 – All SAT prep books are the same.

False: There are good ones and there are some not so good ones. Some prep books have made-up problems that can be irrelevant to the actual SAT and PSAT/NMSQT tests. Try to find a book that only uses test materials from The College Board. A lot of books emphasize different things, so try to use several different books to prepare.

Myth #10 – The SAT essay was added because The College Board wanted to make the test harder.

False: The essay was added because colleges were finding that incoming freshmen were not able to write on the college level. In response to this, the essay was added so that colleges could measure a student’s ability to express ideas, develop a thesis, and use language effectively.

Myth #11 – The essay is graded by a computer.

False: All essays are graded by a real person who has several years of writing experience and is familiar with the rules of Standard Written English. For grading purposes, the essays will be scanned into a computer and sent to the respective judges electronically. Each essay will be graded by two judges and scored on a scale of 1-6. If the score differs more than a one point between the two judges, a third person will then grade it.

Myth #12 – You have to spend a lot of money to do well on the SAT.

False: Some prep courses cost from $2000 to $5000. Many of these courses contain a lot of busy work and boast only a 200 point an average raise in test scores. Learning a lot of content is not necessarily the key to doing well on the SAT. Each test generally has the same recurring patterns and hidden strategies that can be decoded. Take the initiative. Most of the information found at a prep course can be found in a book. If a student can find the motivation to study for the SAT without the nagging of a classroom, one can save a lot of money. However, if you are unmotivated, finding a class may be the best thing for you, but you need to shop around. There are classes that cut to the chase and actually teach how to understand and take the test but cost considerably less.

Myth #13 – You should only take the SAT if you are planning to go to college.

False: Plans can change. Even if a student delays college a couple of years, their SAT scores are generally held for two years by the College Board and most colleges will still accept them.

Don’t be afraid, the SAT is accomplishable. Preparation is the key to doing well, so if you do your homework, you should do great. Start early. Learn all about the test, and then PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE. Make this test a priority. This test could be the answer to a good scholarship and to admission into a great university, so don’t goof off. A good SAT score is something to be proud of, and that’s no myth.

Jean Burk is a published author, speaker and teacher. She has been featured on television as an expert on the SAT and PSAT tests, College Prep and How to Get Free College. Jean is also a “completed” home school mom. Both of her children received incredible scholarships because of their PSAT and SAT scores. She has been teaching her “Master the SAT” Prep Class in the D/FW area and many surrounding cities. She also travels and speaks about her book College Prep Genius. You may contact her at Jean@collegeprepgenius.com or visit her site at www.collegeprepgenius.com.

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

1. LIBRARY PROGRAMS AT NORTH TEXAS LIBRARIES --- OCTOBER

To find out what programs your local libraries have going on, visit the website below. It includes links to public libraries all over Texas, so you and your kids can get in on the adventure of reading.

http://www.publiclibraries.com/texas.htm

BEDFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY
Location: 1805 L. Don Dodson Drive
Bedford, TX 76021
817-952-2342
Contact: Jeannie Green

TUESDAYS --- Sprouts Story Time
(for the more active child)
Time: 10 a.m. – 10:20 a.m.
Bonnie Finn Room

TUESDAYS --- Story Book Club
(for the child who is ready to be a sitter and llstener)
Time: 11 am. – 11:25 a.m.
Bonnie Finn Room

October Themes:
2 – The Man on the Moon
9 – Soup, Soup, Soup!
16 – Old MacDonald’s Garden
23 – Creepy Tales
30 – Spider Webs

OCTOBER 13 --- Gardening with Texas Wildflowers
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Ralph Chaney, Premier Gardener, will share his adventures gardening with Texas wildflowers.
Bonnie Finn Room

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HURST PUBLIC LIBRARY
Location: 901 Precinct Line Road
Hurst, TX 76053
817-788-7300
Contact: rreynaro@ci.hurst.us

TUESDAYS & WEDNESDAYS --- Story Time
Time: 10:45 – 11:15 a.m.
Ages: 3-6 years old

MONDAYS & THURSDAYS --- Toddler Time
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Ages: 1-3 years old

MONDAYS ---- Chess Club
Time: 4 – 5 p.m.
Ages: Elementary ages and up
(all events are free and open to the public)

SEPTEMBER 19 --- Talk Like a Pirate Day

OCTOBER 4 --- Anime Club
Time: 6-8 p.m.
Ages: 7^th – 12^th graders
If you enjoy anime—watching it and talking about it—this is the place for you! Add snacks, door prizes, and other teens that love anime, too, just for fun!

OCTOBER 11 --- Teen Pulse Network
Time: 6:30 – 8:00
Ages: Teens
Wanted: Teens! If you love the Library and have a sense of fun and lots of opinions, we need you! Become an active part of the Hurst Public Library.

OCTOBER 31 --- Boo Books
Time: 4-5 p.m.
Ages: all
Treat yourself to a special story time where slightly scary and funny stories are the order of the afternoon. Add to that some mildly spooky activities to get you in a trick-or-treat mood! Costumes are optional but encouraged.

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McKINNEY MEMORIAL PUBLIC LIBRARY

Location: 101 E. Hunt Street
McKinney, TX 75069
972-547-READ
Contact: Wendy Turner – wturner@mckinneytexas.org

Home School Programs

OCTOBER 11 –Getting to Know Your Library
Grades: K-3
Time: 10:30 a.m.
Dulaney Room
Participate in a special program to learn more about the library and the Children's Department
Registration Required

OCTOBER 15 –Research Gathering Skills
Grades: 5^th – 8th
Time: 3:15 p.m.
Conference Room (upstairs)
Learn basic research skills and become familiar with the library’s many
resources.
Registration Required

OCTOBER 30 –Research Gathering Skills
Grades: 5^th – 8th
Time: 3:15 p.m.
Conference Room (upstairs)
Learn basic research skills and become familiar with the library’s many
resources.
Registration Required

For More Information or To Register: Contact Wendy Turner at 972-547-7319 or wturner@mckinneytexas.org

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TYLER PUBLIC LIBRARY
(all events are free and open to the public)
Location: 201 S. College Ave

One block southwest of the square in downtown Tyler

Contact: Evelyn James – 903-593-7323 – programs@tylertexas.com

In the Exhibit Cases:
OCTOBER: Native American Artifacts from the personal collection of Joe Martinez

ReadAloud Crowd
WEDNESDAYS & THURSDAYS
Time: 10:30 in the Storyroom
Storyteller Evelyn James and friends share songs, stories, and simple crafts with preschoolers and their families

AfterSchool Rules!
THURSDAYS
Time: 3:30 – 5:00 in Taylor Auditorium
A reading incentive program for children in grades K-5
Reading games and activities PLUS! One on one reading time with middle and high school “reading buddies”

Printed Page Players
OCTOBER 4 --- Don’t Drink the Water (1966) by Woody Allen
A Cold War farce that keeps its sting!
An American family is forced to seek asylum in the American embassy of a small Iron Curtain country after being mistakenly pursued as spies. As the play progresses, Walter Hollander, his wife Marion, and daughter Susan try to prove their innocence. The ineffectual assistance of Axel McGee who is filling in in the absence of his ambassador father, the fear of being shot by Russion official Krojack, and the impossibility of living with the efficiency expert Kilroy all combine to make life miserable and the play hilarious.

OCTOBER 1-4 --- Teddy Bear Picnic Time: 10:30 in Taylor Auditorium Bring your Teddy Bear and join storyteller Evelyn James and friends for songs, stories, and Teddy Bear FUN! Ages: For preschoolers and their families, as well as childcare groups. Registration required for groups.
OCTOBER 29 – NOVEMBER 2 --- Come in Costume and receive a free Book!!
Visit the Library in your costume this week and receive a free “previously loved” book from our Book Sale Kids’ collection.

American Girl Reading Club
OCTOBER 20 – Changes for Samantha – A girl of Victorian America
Times: 10 – Noon in Taylor Auditorium

Texas Writers Network
OCTOBER 6
Time: 10:30 A.M. – 4 P.M. in Taylor Auditorium
Scene & Story with award winning author Jory Sherman
Discover Jory’s simple yet comprehensive method to creating and developing the story you want to write.
Sherman began his literary career as a poet in San Francisco's famed North Beach during the heyday of the “Beat Generation.” He was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize for the novel Grass Kingdom and was a Spur Award winner from Western Writers of America for his novel The Medicine Horn. Since 1965, Sherman has authored 4 books of poetry, over 1000 articles, 500 short stories, and more than 300 books with publishers like Doubleday, Zebra, Avon, Berkley, Tor, Forge, Pinnacle, The First Ozark Press, White Oak Press, Harlequin and Bantam.
Workbook provided. Feel free to bring your laptop and your lunch. Coffee and tea will be provided.

Writers’ Workshop
OCTOBER 14 (usually 2^nd Sunday of each month)
Time: 2 – 4:40 p.m. in Taylor Auditorium

Informal gathering of writers and aspiring writers for mutual support, critique, and networking.

Symphony Series
NOVEMBER 12-15
Time: 10:30 a.m. in Taylor Auditorium
Details: Sponsored by the Women’s Symphony League and the Friends of the Library
featuring “The Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg
Make your own music, meet student musicians and learn more about the orchestra!
Ages: Preschoolers and their families, as well as childcare groups.
Registration: Required for groups

Symphony Stories is designed to introduce preschoolers to the music that will be played by the East Texas Symphony Orchestra at their Family Concert on Saturday, November 17, 2:00 pm in Caldwell Auditorium. Each CHILD attending a Symphony Stories program will receive a free ticket to the ETSO Family Concert.

NOVEMBER 17
Time: 2 p.m. in Caldwell Auditorium

Details: Each CHILD attending a Symphony Stories program will receive a free ticket to the ETSO Family Concert

NOVEMBER 17 --- Children’s Book Week Celebration
Time: 2 p.m. in Taylor Auditorium

Details: With lively storyteller and puppeteer Dru Woods

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2. BEST ROBOTICS 2007 PREVIEW: 2021: A ROBOT ODYSSEY

BEST is a non-profit, volunteer organization whose mission is to inspire students to pursue careers in engineering, science, and technology through participation in a sports-like, science- and engineering-based robotics competition.

Get the first look at the theme for this year's competition!
Visit: http://www.bestinc.org/MVC/

Regional Competitions

NOVEMBER 30 -DECEMBER 1 --- Texas BEST
Location: Lubbock Municipal Coliseum on the Texas Tech University campus
www.depts.ttu.edu/texasbest/

Frontier Trails BEST -- Nov 30 - Dec 1, 2007

South's BEST --- December 7-8, 2007

YES Program Information
Igus® Inc. offers free products through the Y.E.S. (Young Engineers Support) Program, designed to foster the mechanical design ideas and inventions of students who have a passion for engineering. The program aims to not only support students and engineers, but also educate them on the merits and benefits of plastic components. The program offers donations to students and engineering competitions across the U.S., Canada and Mexico. The benefits of the Y.E.S. Program are boundless for both igus and
young engineers.

To get an extra copy of the 2007 Product Data Guide included in your igus kit?
Download it here: www.igus.com/yesprogram/

Student Sample Request Form
If you are a student or individual involved with an engineering project or robotics competition who would like request products, please fill out the Student Sample Request Form located at
www.igus.com/yesprogram/student_request.asp

Please note that the Y.E.S. Program is not limited to students, but also welcomes requests from all individuals or organizations competing in robotic and autonomous vehicle competitions.

Curriculum Product Request Form
If you are a teacher, professor or advisor and would like to request products and information to incoroporate into your curriculum or would like an in-class presentation from a cable carrier or bearings expert, please fill out the Curriculum Product Request Form located at
www.igus.com/yesprogram/curriculum_request.asp

Student Sample Request Form for FIRST Teams
If you are a FIRST team and would like additional products for your robot, please fill out the Student Sample Request Form exclusively for FIRST Teams located at
www.igus.com/yesprogram/FIRST2007_request.asp

For more information on the Y.E.S. Program:
Please contact Courtney Toomey, Y.E.S. Program Administrator at (800) 521-2747 ext. 146
or via e-mail at ctoomey@igus.com
or visiting www.igus.com/yesprogram

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3. THEO IN PLANO OFFERING CLASSES FOR 2007-2008

From their NEW SPACE at 15^th and Custer!!

Plano’s THEO—The Outsourcing Solution for Home Schoolers---was born to fill in the gaps of what is available to North Texas home educated students. We strive to offer classes which require a large pool of students to “make.”
We chose a centrally placed location, one mile north of George Bush Tollway and two miles west of 75, to provide classes for the home educated junior high and high school student who wants something different.
Bursting at the seams with newly added shop and drafting, sign language, chorus, theater and speech and even a writing club for those students (or adults) who love to write and long to be published, THEO has a heart to help families homeschool through high school, without missing out on the highly academic classes or extracurricular classes offered by public and private schools.
After all, you can hardly have a writing club for excellent writers if you are pulling only from a few hundred families….but you can if you are pulling the best writers from all over the metroplex….same goes for chorus and band a/k/a Instrumental Ensemble….
Academic Tutoring Available:
THEO also offers academic tutoring in a classroom setting for math, science, Spanish, writing, Worldview and more. THEO caters to 6-12th grade, but Paula Smith offers science for all grades from our same great location through The Science Resource. www.thescienceresource.com
For more information:
Visit www.THEOsonline.org to learn more,
or visit us at the Plano Book Fair on August 17 or 18 OR
visit us at our new home, 1301 Custer Road, Suite 616, Plano, TX 75075.
Please visit www.THEOsonline.org to learn more. Or visit us at the Plano Book Fair on August 17 or 18.

Location: THEO’s New Location:
1301 Custer Road, Suite 616
Plano, TX 75075

For More Information: www.THEOsonline.org

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4. CLASSES AND ACHIEVEMENT TESTING AVAILABLE AT CERC IN ROWLETT

Academic Classes
Classes are underway for the Fall Semester, providing area families core junior high and high school courses, as well as, enrichment classes that make learning fun!

Pre-Calc and Spanish I have just been added to our calendar, beginning Oct. 1^st!
If you are interested in teaching for the Spring Semester, get your Registration packet in soon. You can find the packet on-line under Teachers.

Achievement Testing
CERC offers monthly standardized achievement testing. Please contact the store for more details.

CERC Student Productions and Identity Fine Arts Classes Offered in the Fall Semester:

OCTOBER 6, 13, 20, 27l NOVEMER 3, 10, 17

FA1106 Creative Drama Chey Macalik
Time: Sat 10-10:30
Tuition: $50 Supplies Fee: $5
Ages: 5-7 Grades: K-3
Let your child step into a world of make-believe using theatre games, activities, stories, movement, music and imagination. Creative drama classes promote listening skills, body awareness, teamwork, creative thinking, speaking, and nurtures the creative spirit and confident self expression in each child.
* A class presentation will be prepared for the parents Nov 17th

FA1107 Acting I Chey Macalik
Time:10:30-11:15
Tuition: $75 for the dates above or two payments of $40 Supplies Fee: $5
Ages: 8-11 Grades: 3-6
Hours of homework per week: 0-1
Come and learn the basics of acting through pantomime, theatre games, readers theatre, movement, speaking and having fun. Benefits of acting include: confidence, creative problem solving, thinking on your feet, team work, speaking in front of a group and empathy for others.
* A class presentation will be prepared for the parents Nov 17th
FA1108 Production Class: 'Best Christmas Pageant Ever’
Time: 11:15-2:00
Additional rehearsals will be added as necessary closer to performance
Perfomances: Nov 30, Dec 1, 7, 8
Tuition: $120 for the dates above or two payments of $65 Supplies Fee: $25
Ages: 8+ Grades: 3+
Hours of homework per week: 2-4
Min/Max Students: 15/20
This year, Grace Bradley and the Bradley Family have to take over their church's annual Christmas pageant after the original play director, Mrs. Armstrong, broke her leg. To make matters worse, Charlie Bradley told Leroy Herdman, one of six horrible Herdman kids who curse, smoke, swear, and steal that people who go to Sunday School get free refreshments. This makes the Herdmans infiltrate the only safe haven in all of town. The next Sunday during Sunday school, Imogene Herdman heard about a pageant, and became interested in this "Christmas Pageant" and decided to sign all the Herdmans up for all the main, important parts. This could only mean one thing; TROUBLE! In the end, the Herdmans find out the true meaning of love.

Register by filling out the forms under Classes on our website
and mail-in or bring-in to our store.

For Registration and Other Information: http://www.cerconline.org/testingindex.html

Location: Christian Educators Resource Center
3810 Industrial, Suite 300
Rowlett, TX 75088

Contact: 972-475-4138
www.cerconline.org

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5. HOMESCHOOLERS EAST CO-OP CLASSES --- EAST DALLAS

Classes Offered:
Mock Trial I (Grades 1-3)
Mock Trial II (Grades 4-6)
Model United Nations (Grades 9-12)
Youth and Government I (Grades 6-8)
Youth and Government II (Grades 9-12)
Ballroom Dancing (Grades 4-6)
Readers’ Theater I (Grades 1-3)
Readers’ Theater II (Grades 4-6)

For Class Schedule: http://docs.google.com/View?docid=dzg7xwz_5hcrtr2&pli=1

Application: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/club_expressions/files/Application Materials/

Contact For More Information: Sandra Carey at club_expressions@yahoo.com

To Join Their Yahoo Group: www.groups.yahoo.com/group/clulb_expressions/

Location: The Summit Church
4101 East Park Blvd.
Plano, TX 75074

We are seeking a passionate and qualified leader for speech and debate and a model UN leader for our 4th-8th graders.

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6. LEGACY HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT PROGRAM AT FIRST BAPTIST EULESS

Currently Enrolling for 2007-2008 School Year --- Science, History, and Fine Arts Classes
Grade: K-8
Contact: Laura Lewis at 817-267-3313 ext 267
Email: legacy@discoveryfirst.org

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7. LIBRARY USED BOOK SALES IN NORTH TEXAS --- AUGUST

Looking for inexpensive literature books and other resources to add to your home school library? Library used book sales are excellent opportunities to purchase books at bargain prices. Here are a few sales that we know about in the North Texas area:

********************************
GARLAND – October 5-6
Time: Fri: 9 am., - 8:30 p.m.; Sat: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: South Garland Branch Library
4845 Broadway Blvd
972-205-2548

Books: 50% donated; 50% hardcover; sorted; not “picked over” ; no buyer restrictions; papercover .50 - .75; hardcover $1

********************************
FORT WORTH – October 6-7
14^th Annual North Texas Book and Paper Show

Time: Fri: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m; Sat: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Location: Will Rogers Complex
Amon Carter Jr. Exhibits Building
Roundup Inn
3401 West Lancaster
Contact: 972-921-1216
thewrightcollection@sbcglobal.net
Free Book Appraisals
Free Parking
ADMISSION: Adults $5, Students $4, Under 12 Free

Receive $1 Off the 2 day admission price of $5 by visiting:
www.ntxbooksellers.org/index.php?ibeda=13

Exhibitor List: www.ntxbooksellers.org/index.php?ibeda=13

********************************

WICHITA FALLS – Oct 6; Nov 3; Dec 1
Location: Wichita Falls Public Library
600 11^th Street
940-767-0868 x 248

Books: * 3,000; 100% donated; 85% hardcover; .50-$2

* Half-price sale on most books 1st Saturday of each month

********************************

GRAND PRAIRIE - Oct 10 – 14
Time: Wed & Thurs 10 am – 8 pm; Fri 10 am – 6 p.m.; Sat 9 am – 5 pm; Sun 1 am – 5pm
Friends Preview Tue 6:30-8:30pm; join at door $10/fam.

Location: Grand Prairie Public Library
901 Conover Drive
972-262-8015
fgpltx@aol.com

Books: 24,000; 95% donated; 90% hardcover; sorted; .50-$2;
Sunday half price
Saturday: Silent basket auction: baskets available after auction close, 3pm

********************************

COPPERAS COVE – Oct 13
Time: Sat 9-3
Preview: Sat 8-9am,
Cost: $5 admission, Friends free

Location: Avenue E Alternative Learning Center
Cafeteria
306 E. Avenue E
254-547-3826

Books: 5,000; 98% donated; 30% hardcover; sorted; papercover .50 or 5/$2; hardcover $2

********************************

DENTON – Oct. 13, Nov. 10
Time: Sat: 10 – 4;
Location: North Branch Library
3020 N. Locust St.
817-788-7300
Admission: $1 (children 12 and under and Friends are free)

Books: 8,000-9,000; 50% donated; 70% hardcover; some sorting; .50 - $1

********************************

FLOWER MOUND – Oct 20-21
Time: Sat 11-5, Sun 1-5
Preview: Fri 5-7pm, Friends; join at door $25
Location: Flower Mound Public Library
3030 Broadmoor La
972-874-6151

Books: 3,500; 90% donated; 30% hardcover; not 'picked over'; no buyer restrictions; partly sorted; .25-$3

********************************

ARLINGTON – Oct 25-27
Time: Friends Presale: Wed 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.; membership available at door
Thurs: 4 p.m. – 7 p.m
Fri & Sat: 11 am – 7 p.m. (Saturday Specials)
Sun: 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Half price/closeouts)
Location: St. Stephen United Methodist Church
1800 W. Randol Mill Rd.
(I 30 to Fielder Rd Exit. Exit South. Go to Randol Mill. Turn right (west) and the church will be another mile on the left, across from Randol Mill Park

Contact: DiVFeld@aol.com

Books: Over 50,000 items: records, tapes, videos, CDs, software; Sheet music; 100% donated;
Collector's Corner; Fiction, non-fiction, reference; Separate juvenile/children's section

Flats of paperbacks $6

********************************

DALLAS – Oct 26-27
Time: 10 am. – 5 pm.
Sun: 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Half price/closeouts)
Location: Casa View Library
10355 Ferguson Rd
214-328-6595

Books: 800; 100% donated; 75% hardcover; sorted; not 'picked over'; no buyer restrictions; .50-$3

********************************

GRANBURY – Oct 27-28
Time: Sat 9-6; Sun 1-4
Friends Preview: Fri noon-6; join at door $10
Location: Hood County Library
222 N. Travis St
877-776-1548
Contact: joandty@lakegranbury.com

Books: 15,000 books; 90% donated; 70% hardcover; sorted; not 'picked over'; no buyer restrictions; .25-$1. Sun $5/box

********************************

CLEBURNE – October (Fridays and Saturdays)
Time: Fri 10-5; Sat 10-2
Friends Preview: Thu 6:30-8:30
Location: Cleburne Public Library
302 W. Henderson
817-645-0934

Books: 700 books; 75% donated; 75% hardcover; sorted; .50-$1

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8. PRIVATE, ONE-ON-ONE TUTORING IN MATHEMATICS – DONE ONLINE AT YOUR HOME
Ed2Net Learning offers:

Curriculum individually customized and paced for your child

Done at home — in an environment most conducive to learning
Free initial diagnosis to assess understanding level
The assigned tutor conducts regular sessions one on one with your child
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Supported by multiple online practice sheets , evaluated and explained by tutors
Quiz after each chapter and regular feedback and reports for your records
The tutor and the child talk and interact on a common screen
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9. SHARKAROSA OPEN-TO-THE-PUBLIC DAYS

OCTOBER 6, 13, 20, 27

Time: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (last tour begins at 4:30)

Admission: $8 per person; kids 3 and under are free
INCLUDES: - Meet & Greet with our Education Animals (kangaroos, monkeys, lemurs & more) *Animals available for meet and greet vary with the season and off-site events schedule*
- Safari Wagon ride through exotic pastures to see camels, zebra, buffalo & more
- Kids Bucket Train rides thru 22 acres of “wild” trails!
- Use of pavilion for lunch (you may purchase lunch at our concession stand or bring your own)

Directions:
http://www.sharkarosa.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=26&Itemid=50
Please do not use MapQuest it WILL get you lost!

We are currently taking deposits for fall field trip reservations. Please visit the Field Trip page under the "Visiting Section" of our web site for details on booking a field trip for your home school group.

For More Information:
www.sharkarosa.com
940-686-4600(main)
940-686-3715(fax)

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10. FORT WORTH OMNI THEATER --- CLOSED UNTIL SPRING 2008

Beginning September 4: Omni Theater will undergo upgrades while the museum starts construction on its new campus. The Theater will reopen in Spring 2008 with a new sound system, improved facilities and all-new IMAX adventures! Opening dates and film schedules TBA.

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11. SHOWS AT THE DALLAS IMAX THEATER - MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & NATURE

Dinosaurs Alive! - Through October 21 (State Fair of Texas)

During the State Fair of Texas (Sept 28 – October 21) you will need to purchase State Fair of Texas Tickets and parking, in addition to Imax Theater Tickets
For more Info and to Purchase Tickets: www.natureandscience.org/imax/default.asp
Dinosaurs Alive is a global adventure of science and discovery featuring the earliest dinosaurs of the Triassic Period to the monsters of the Cretaceous “reincarnated” life-sized for the giant IMAX® screen. Audiences will journey with some of the world’s preeminent paleontologists as they uncover evidence that the descendents of dinosaurs still walk (or fly) among us. From the exotic, trackless expanses and sand dunes of Mongolia’s Gobi Desert to the dramatic sandstone buttes of New Mexico, the film will follow paleontologists as they explore some of the greatest dinosaur finds in history. Through the magic of scientifically accurate computer-generated animation, these newly discovered creatures, and some familiar favorites, will come alive…in a big way!

Sharks – Through October 21 (State Fair of Texas)
During the State Fair of Texas (Sept 28 – October 21) you will need to purchase State Fair of Texas Tickets and parking, in addition to Imax Theater Tickets
For more Info and to Purchase Tickets: www.natureandscience.org/imax/default.asp
Presented by Jean-Michel Cousteau (son of famed underwater explorer Jacques Cousteau), Sharks brings you face to fin with a multitude of shark species, including the Great White, Hammerhead and Whale Shark. Witness them as they really are: not wicked man-eating creatures, but wild, beautiful and endangered animals that have been in existence since a million years before dinosaurs roamed the earth. So join us on this unique round-the-globe expedition and you'll enjoy astonishing up-close encounters for an unforgettable giant screen experience.

For Showtimes: http://www.natureandscience.org/imax/imax_showtimes.asp

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12. FORT WORTH NATURE CENTER AND REFUGE PROGRAMS

OCTOBER 6 ---- Basic Canoe Instruction
Time: 9 a.m – 4p.m.
Cost: 89/person
$50/members
Register: 817-237-1111
Six hour class will introduce you to the basics of tandem paddling on quiet water, rescue techniquest, transporting canoes, planning a canoe outing. Meet at Refuge Service Center.

OCTOBER 6 --- Sparrows: What’s that Little Brown Bird?
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Admission: $5/person
Members Free
This class is about native sparrows that inhabit the Refuge during the winter months. We will search for Field Sparrows, Harris’ Sparrows, and Fox Sparros. Join us as we hike around the Prairie looking for these little brown non-descript birds that give birders fits.

OCTOBER 14 --- Monarch Migration
Time: 1 – 3 p.m.
Admission: FREE
During this tie of the year, new generations of Monarch butterflies embark on an incredible journey south. Come by the Refuge to hear about their remarkable crossing through Texas and their final destination in Mexico. We will take a leisurely stroll to get a glimpse of these amazing Lepidopterans.

OCTOBER 20 --- Vultures
Time: 1 and 2 p.m.
Admission: $5/person
Members Free
These Nature Center residents can be seen high in the skies. Considered disgusting to some, others regard them as very important. Join us as we discuss the life history of our two species of vultures and view them in the sky above. Binoculars strongly encouraged, but not required.

OCTOBER 21 --- Refuge Mammals
Time: 3-4 p.m.
Admisson: FREE
We will look at pelts, skulls, and meet a live mammal or two during the class.

OCTOBER 28 --- Tails of the Misunderstood
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Admission: FREE
Some animals give us the wrong impression. Bats, owls, snakes are a just a few creatures that are often thought of as being intimidating unapproachable. Come by the Hardwicke Interpretive Center to learn more about their natural history and leave with facts rather than misconceptions.

NOVEMBER 3 --- Woodpeckers
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Admission: $5/person
Members Free
Join a naturalist as we discuss the life history of woodpeckers, local species, and peril of one species of woodpecker. Binculars strongly encouraged, but not necessary.

NOVEMBER 4 --- Wild Bird Center Seminar
Time: 2-3 p.m.
Admission: FREE
Steve Woodward from the Wild Bird Center will share all the new and latest advances in attracting and feeding birds In your backyard. Learn how to be a successful at feeding birds in your backyard.

Location: 9601 Fossil Ridge Road
Fort Worth, TX 76135

The Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge (FWNC&R) is located just inside the city limits of Fort Worth, TX. The FWNC&R is a hidden jewel, a wilderness comprised of forests, prairies, and wetlands reminiscent of how much of the Fort Worth/Dallas metroplex once looked. Replete with native flora and fauna, the area beckons to those searching for a piece of nature to refresh their spirits and reintroduce a measure of tranquility to their increasingly urban lifestyles.

Over 3600 acres, the FWNC&R is the largest city-owned nature center in the United States and offers residents and visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural history of north central Texas . Over 20 miles of hiking trails provide easy access to a myriad of natural wonders to be found on the Refuge. Staff naturalists at the Hardwicke Interpretive Center are available to facilitate your exploration.

The FWNC&R is located on the northwest side of Fort Worth, four miles west of I-820 on Jacksboro Hwy. (TX Hwy 199).

For More Information about these or other events: 817-237-1111
http://www.fwnaturecenter.org

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13. THEATER PERFORMANCES AT CASA MANANA CHILDREN’S THEATER

For over 40 years, Casa Mañana's Children's Playhouse has introduced children of all ages to the magic of live theatre. This tradition continues as Casa Mañana's Children's Playhouse proudly presents the 2007 - 2008 Season:

SEPTEMBER 28 – OCTOBER 14 --- Treasure Island

OCTOBER 26 – NOVEMBER 11 --- Charlotte's Web

NOVEMBER 23 – DECEMBER 23 --- Frosty The Snowman

FEBRUARY 22 – MARCH 9 --- Junie B. Jones

APRIL 4 – 20 (2008) --- Little Red Riding Hood

MAY 2 – 18 (2008) --- Charlie And The Chocolate Factory

Order Season Tickets!
Order a 6-Show Season Ticket package to secure GREAT SEATS for these fantastic, family fun productions at Casa Mañana Theatre. And as a Season Subscriber, you will receive a discount equal to seeing ONE SHOW FREE!
For More Information: Call Customer Service at 817-332-2272 or visit http://www.casamanana.org/PlayhouseSeasonTickets.htm

The Children's Playhouse Producers Circle
Two rows of seats in front of Sections 2 and 3 are reserved exclusively for members of The Children's Playhouse Producers Circle. Join today and receive a free seating upgrade, plus other fantastic benefits.
For More Information: Call 817-321-5005.

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14. PERFORMANCES AT CATS THEATER IN ARLINGTON

SEPTEMBER 28 – OCTOBER 7 --- Honk, Jr.
Based on Hans Christian Andersen's "The Ugly Duckling", “Honk!” tells the story of an odd looking baby duck, Ugly, and his quest to find his mother. Soon after Ugly is born, he is wisked away by a wily Cat who wants to eat Ugly for dinner. Eventually, Ugly manages to escape but has no idea how to return home. Along his way, he encounters a beautiful swan, Penny, tangled in a fishing line. After saving her, the two birds fall in love. However, she must return to her flock and fly south for the winter. Eventually, Ugly’s mother finds him frozen in snow. Luckily, her warm tears manage to thaw him out and he comes back to life – as a handsome swan! Soon, Ugly is reunited with Penny and two swans decide to live the rest of their days in the same pond as Ugly’s loyal mother.

NOVEMBER 2-11 --- Charlotte's Web (Auditions Oct 1-3)
An affectionate, sometimes bashful pig named Wilbur befriends a spider named Charlotte, who lives in the rafters above his pen. A prancing, playful bloke, Wilbur is devastated when he learns of the destiny that befalls all those of piggy persuasion. Determined to save her friend, Charlotte spins a web that reads "Some Pig," convincing the farmer and surrounding community that Wilbur is no ordinary animal and should be saved. In this story of friendship, hardship, and the passing on into time, E.B. White reminds us to open our eyes to the wonder and miracle often found in the simplest of things.

DECEMBER 7-16 --- Frontier Santa (Auditions October 22-24)
Frontier Santa is the story of a group of orphans living in an alley in the rough and tumble town of Fort Worth in 1879. Christmas - and a Blue Norther - is approaching and things look bleak. But rather than fuss and moan, the kids decide to do their best to make their own holiday celebration a success. They scatter throughout the town to gather decorations, food and presents for their own party in the alley - but tell Johnny that he's too little to help. Too little?! Johnny sets his sights on finding Santa Claus to be their guest of honor, recruiting some of Fort Worth's most colorful characters to help him. What they find is sure to fire up the spirit of the season. Book by Frances Seidensticker, music and lyrics by Fort Worth's Linda M. Lee.

JANUARY 25 – FEBRUARY 3 --- Holes (Auditions November 26-28)
Stanley is just a regular kid until he is found responsible for a crime he didn't commit. We learn about a curse that has been in his family for several generations. His bad luck lands Stanley in a very strange correctional camp in the Texas desert. The warden has all the inmates digging holes in a dry lake bed. The story weaves fascinating tall tales from local history and Stanley's family. The relationships among the juveniles in the camp develop self worth in this moving story of teen self discovery. Stanley finds a good friend, treasure, and a story worth telling.

FEBRUARY 22 - MARCH 2 --- Follow That Rabbit (Auditions January 14-16)
From the moment Alice falls down a rabbit hole into the zany world of Wonderland, the fun never stops. You'll meet talking birds and animals, singing flowers, hilariously comic kings and queens . . . and find yourself attending a race where the contestants run in circles getting nowhere and everybody wins! There's a frantic tea party ruled over by the Mad Hatter; and a funny scene where Alice must deal with a pepper-sneezing Duchess and a baby that turns into a pig! The finale has Alice at the trial of the Knave of Hearts for stealing tarts; and she is suddenly the accused. Here's a modern view of a classic where nonsense makes good sense. And Alice even finds a new friend: the watch-carrying White Rabbit.

MARCH 28 – APRIL 6 --- Pied Piper of Hamlin (Auditions February 11-12)
The singing, rhyming citizens of Hamelin hope to win a competition with rival towns for royal recognition. To this end, the mayor outlaws play (which is a bit hard on the children) and refuses to help a rival town when it's flooded. But rats (seen only as shadows), fleeing the flood, invade Hamelin in droves; a magical piper, whose music only children (and rats) can hear, strikes a bargain...which, once the rats are gone, the Mayor and council renege on, to their subsequent regret.

MAY 2 – 11 --- Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (Open Auditions March 10-12)
2008 Fundraiser Show
Step into the enchanted world of Broadway’s modern classic, Disney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. You will be transported to a lovely French provincial town where the beautiful Belle lives with her father – a silly inventor. When her father doesn’t return from a trip to the local fair, Belle rushes off to find him. To her dismay, she discovers he is being held captive in an old castle by a horrible beast. She trades her freedom for his and the “tale as old as time” begins.

Show Times:
Spotlight Shows:
Friday 7:30 p.m.
Saturday 2:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Sunday 2:30 p.m.
Ticket Information:
2007/2008
* Regular admission $10.00.
* Group rate for a group of 10 and more $9.
* Group rate for a group of 20 and more $8.
* Lap passes for children 0 to 3 years old are $5.00.
* School Matinees group rate $5. See link below for group rates.
* 2007-2008 Season Tickets – See link below for info on Season Tickets
* 2008 Fundraiser Show $15 for adults & $10 for children/students

To Order Tickets Online: https://vss131.viux.com/creativearts_org/tixonline.htm
For Information on Group Rates: http://www.creativearts.org/grouprates.html
For Information on Season Tickets: http://www.creativearts.org/seasontickets.html

.
For More Information: 817-861-2287; metro: 817-265-8512

Location: 1100 West Randol Mill Road
Arlington, TX 76012

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15. THEATER PERFORMANCES at ARTISAN THEATER IN HURST

Artisan Center Theater holds quality, "in the round" performances that are family-friendly, entertaining, and affordable! Artie's Playhouse, their Interactive Children's Theater, offers original, fun-for-all-ages productions featuring familiar characters and themes, but with fresh twists that keep it entertaining and exciting for parents as well as children. Each story has its own character focus, which is reinforced throughout the play.
The plays are about 30-45 minutes long, and include lots of audience participation to hold the interest of even the youngest child in the family. The theater's full-length stage productions include musicals, comedies, and family dramas which are entertaining, as well as family-friendly. Past performances have included such classics as Godspell, Cheaper By the Dozen, The Scarlet Pimpernel, and The Sound of Music.

THROUGH OCT 13 --- No Time for Sergeants
Times: Mondays: 4:30 p.m.

Fridays: 10:30 a.m.

Saturdays: 10:30 a.m.

Ticket Prices: Reserved seats: $13.00 for adults, $11.00 for students and senior citizens, $8.00 for children 12 and under.
Mondays and Thursdays are $9.00 adults; $6 12 and under
Reservations recommended.

THROUGH OCT 12 --- Little Miss Muffet and the Ditzy Knitting Spider (Artie’s Playhouse)
Times: 7:30 p.m. (Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays)
3:00 Saturday Matinee
Artie’s Playhouse Ticket Price: $3 per person

COMING NEXT:
OCTOBER 9 – NOVEMBER 10 --- It’s a Wonderful Life (the Live Radio Play)
(Co-Produced by Texas Wesleyan University)

OCTOBER 22 – NOVEMBER 9 --- Squirrels Just Wanna Have Fun (Arties Playhouse)

To Reserve Tickets: 817-284-1200
For More Information: http://www.artisanct.com
Address: 420 E. Pipeline Road in Hurst, Texas (in the Bellaire Shopping Center)

Artisan Theater can come to you!!!
For more information about how to schedule a performance at your location, contact the theater at 817-284-1200. They can perform for events, birthday parties, church functions, and more!!! Bring their family-friendly, entertaining shows to your front door!! Very reasonable prices!!

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16. CATS HOME SCHOOL THEATRE CLASSES --- REGISTRATION OPEN

REGISTRATION OPEN for 2007-2008 Home School Theatre Classes

Location: 1100 West Randall Mill Road
Arlington, TX 76102

Contact: 817-861-2287 or Metro 817-265-8512

For Home School Class Listing: www.creativearts.org/fallclasses.html#0.1_table08

For More Information about CATS: www.creativearts.org

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17. DALLAS CHILDREN’S THEATER PERFORMANCES

COMING SOON:

NOVEMBER 24 – DECEMBER 23 --- The Nutcracker

NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 16 --- A Little House Christmas

JANUARY 25 – MARCH 2 --- Goodnight Moon

FEBRUARY 8 – FEBRUARY 24 --- Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters

FEBRUARY 29 – MARCH 30 --- The House at Pooh Corner

MARCH 28 – APRIL 20 --- The Giver

APRIL 11 – MAY 11 --- Eat (It’s Not About Food)

MAY 9 – MAY 25 --- If You Give a Pig a Party

Location: Plano Children’s Theater
1301 Custer Road
Plano, TX 75075

Times: Fridays and Saturdays at 7:15 p.m. and Sat. and Sun. at 2:15 p.m.

Tickets: To purchase individual tickets:
www.dct.org/Performances/ChooseaShow/tabid/181/Default.aspx

Student Matinees: Tuesday – Thursday at 10 a.m.
$7/person
(unless otherwise noted on their website)

Groups of 10 or more $7.00 per person
(1 FREE chaperone per 20 student tickets)
*Deposit required with reservation.
Balance due SIX WEEKS before performance.

Contact: 214-740-0051
www.dct.org/Performances/tabid/115/Default.aspx

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18. PLANO CHILDREN’S THEATER PERFORMANCES

NOVEMBER 2-17 --- Sound of Music

NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 15 --- Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

DECEMBER 7-15 --- Laura Ingall’s Christmas

JANUARY 11- 26 --- West Side Story (Musical)

JANUARY 11-26 --- Honk, Jr.

Location: Plano Children’s Theater
1301 Custer Road
Plano, TX 75075

Times: Fridays and Saturdays at 7:15 p.m. and Sat. and Sun. at 2:15 p.m.

Tickets: $7 in advance; $9 at the door

Contact: 972-4220-2575
www.planochildrenstheatre.com/

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19. TEXAS BALLET THEATER PERFORMANCES

OCTOBER 20 – 22 –– The Sleeping Beauty
Location: Bass Performance Hall
Fort Worth, TX
To Learn More About The Sleeping Beauty: www.texasballettheater.org/performances/sleepingbeauty.htm\

NOVEMBER 30 - DECEMBER 16 –– The Nutcracker

Location: Bass Performance Hall

Fort Worth, TX

DECEMBER 20-23 --- The Nutcracker

Location: Music Hall at Fair Park

Dallas, TX

Details: Be thrilled…by the signature touches that have made Ben Stevenson’s lavish setting of The Nutcracker a family favorite. Children of all ages will delight in a Christmas tree that grows forty feet while Clara accompanies her new toy nutcracker into the “Land of Snow”. Be enchanted as snow falls on the audience and dancers, and become a part of Clara’s journey through the “Kingdom of Sweets”. No holiday season is complete without this charming tradition that inspires the memories of a lifetime.

To Learn More About The Nutcracker: www.texasballettheater.org/performances/nutcracker.htm

For Ticket Information: www.texasballettheater.org/tickets/singletickets.htm

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20. FORT WORTH MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY ---- CLOSED UNTIL SPRING 2008

Important Message from the Museum:

In September, the Museum of Science and History will move forward with plans to construct a new, world-class Museum campus to replace our aging Museum building. On September 4, we’ll move out of our existing facility as we start our two-year construction phase. In October, the building – with the exception of the Omni Theater – will be removed to make space for the new facility, to be built on the same location.

Over the next two years, you can still experience our exhibits in our temporary home right next door at the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame. Our ExploraZone exhibit “Seeing” is already there, the first of a series of exhibits that uphold our long-standing focus on hands-on interactivity.

In November you’ll find exhibits both new and familiar, including our immensely popular KIDSPACE® and a new Design Lab – part laboratory, part art studio and part classroom – where students of all ages will be able to learn by questioning and exploring.

Our temporary home in the National Cowgirl Museum also means that for one ticket price, you’ll experience “two museums under one roof” with free access to National Cowgirl Museum exhibits and collections that celebrate the lives of legendary women who exemplified the pioneer spirit of the American West.

Later this fall, you can visit a Preview Center offering updates on construction of our new campus, and shop in a new Museum Store that will offer items such as fossils, science toys and books.

We’re IMAX-imizing your Theater Experience.
Omni Theater IMAX® film presentations will be suspended starting September 4 for construction that will replace the theater’s sound system with a new state-of-the-art digital sound system and make upgrades to our guest amenities, including new restrooms and concession areas. The upgraded theater is slated to open in late spring 2008 with great, new films like Mummies, Deep Sea and more.

Noble Planetarium Plans
While we’re constructing a new Noble Planetarium, astronomy enthusiasts will continue to have access to a full schedule of astronomy programs. The Museum will continue to host Monthly Star Parties, occasional telescope workshops, and regular meetings of the Fort Worth Astronomical Society at nearby locations, including the National Cowgirl Museum.

Educational Programs
We’re passionate about our commitment to Texas students, who will experience “two museums under one roof” through joint field trips to the National Cowgirl Museum and the Museum of Science and History. We’re also taking our learning initiatives “on the road” directly to the classroom. DesignIT workshops, Discovery Labs on Wheels, Distance Learning teleconferences and Family Science Festivals will take engaging hands-on activities to schools across the region. Our Loan Kit program and Saturday Educator Workshops will also continue. Educators can find our 2007-08 School Field Trip Planner online in late September.

Museum School®
Museum School won’t miss a beat! Year-round preschool programs continue to be offered in the new transitional village west of the National Cowgirl Museum. Weekend classes for school-aged children will resume in late fall.

Membership Benefits
We’re still here – and so are your membership benefits. During construction, you’ll receive extended member benefits, special offers and discounts to area attractions and partners, and other valuable bonuses. Your membership will continue to provide free exhibit admission to the National Cowgirl Museum and, when the Omni Theater reopens next spring, you’ll be first in line to experience the renovated theater during special member events. And don’t forget: your membership is still valid for free admission to more than 250 science centers across the country.

The coming months will bring dramatic change for the Fort Worth Museum and Science and History. We’re committed to keeping you posted about activities and programs throughout the building period. We hope that you share our excitement as we look forward to the new Museum facility and the many rich learning opportunities it will provide our community for decades to come. Stay tuned!

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21. DALLAS MUSEUM OF ART EXHIBITS

THROUGH OCTOBER 7 --- From the Ashes of Pompeii

Location: Dallas Museum of Art

1717 North Harwood

Dallas, Texas 75201

Details: Many are aware that Mount Vesuvius’ eruption in A.D. 79 buried the famous town of Pompeii, Italy. But, few people know that it also buried Stabiae, a seaside enclave of the rich and famous about three miles away, at the foot of the Sorrento-Amalfi Coast.

From the Ashes of Vesuvius, In Stabiano: Exploring the Ancient Seaside Villas of the Roman Elite will open at The Dallas Museum of Art on July 8 with a stunning collection of archaeological objects from the ancient Roman site of Stabiae (modern Castellammare di Stabia). The exhibition premiered at the Smithsonian before traveling to other U.S. cities.

In Stabiano features maps, excavation photographs and 72 objects dating between 89 B.C. and the time of the eruption, all from the villas of ancient Stabiae.

Location: Dallas Museum of Art

1717 North Harwood

Dallas, Texas 75201

Hours: Tuesday and Wednesday: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Thursday: 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Closed Mondays, New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas

General Admission:
The general admission fee includes viewing the Museum’s permanent collection and most exhibitions. An audio tour of the permanent collection is included in general admission. Audio tours for adults and families are available.

Members FREE
Adults $10
Senior citizens (65 and over) $7
Students* $5 (with current school ID)
Children under 12 Free

Free on Thursday evenings from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Free on the first Tuesday of each month

Group Discounts (10 more more): Joanne Nichols at 214-922-1222

Or e-mail groupsales@DallasMuseumofArt.org.

For Information: 214-922-1200
To Purchase Advance Tickets: 214-922-1803

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22. AMON CARTER EXHIBITS

MUSEUM EXHIBITS:

THROUGH OCTOBER 14 --- A Sense of Place: Precisionism in America
A selection of works on paper from the Carter’s collection depict Precisionism, the style employed by Charles Demuth in his paintings in the special exhibition Chimneys and Towers: Charles Demuth’s Late Paintings of Lancaster.

THROUGH OCTOBER 14 --- Chimneys and Towers: Charles Demuth’s Late Paintings of Lancaster
This exhibition examines a key group of paintings from the late career of Charles Demuth (1883–1935), one of America’s preeminent twentieth-century modernist painters. The show places his works within the larger cultural context of the American avant-garde.

THROUGH JANUARY 13 --- Masterworks of American Photography
The Carter holds one of the country’s largest and most important collections of photographs. This exhibition features works from the earliest years of the medium up to the present day, grouped in categories of portraiture, still life, documentary and street photography, and landscape.

THROUGH JULY 27, 2008 --- 100 Years of Autochrome
See a selection of photographs and other materials from the Carter’s collection that together celebrate the 100th anniversary of the autochrome, the first commercially viable color photographic process.

SEPTEMBER 15 – JANUARY 8 --- Accommodating Nature: The Photography of Frank Gohlke
Frank Gohlke (b. 1942) is one of America’s leading landscape photographers. For more than thirty years, he has taken photographs that depict how Americans build their lives within a natural world that rarely matches the pastoral ideal.

Location: Amon Carter Art Museum
3501 Camp Bowie Boulevard

Fort Worth, TX 76107

817-738-1933

Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Thursday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Sunday: Noon – 5 p.m.

Closed Mondays and major holidays

Admission: Admission to the permanent collection is free. Tickets for special exhibitions can be purchased at the information desk. All galleries in the Amon Carter Museum offer barrier-free access.

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23. KIMBALL ART MUSEUM EXHIBITS

NOVEMBER 18 – MARCH 30 --- Picturing the Bible: The Earliest Christian Art
A spectacular display of many of the greatest treasures of early Christianity from around the world, "Picturing the Bible" draws upon recent research and new discoveries to tell the story of how the earliest Christians first gave visual expression to their religious beliefs.

To Learn More About this Exhibit: www.kimbellart.org/Exhibitions/Exhibition-Details.aspx?eid=47

Location: Kimball Art Museum
3333 Camp Bowie Boulevard
Fort Worth, Texas 76107-2792
817-332-8451
Metro: 817-654-1034
Fax: 817-877-1264

Hours: Mondays – Closed
Tuesdays–Thursdays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Fridays, noon–8 p.m.
Saturdays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Sundays, noon–5 p.m.
Closed New Year's Day, the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day

Admission to This Special Exhibit:

$14 for adults

$12 for seniors age 60 and over and students with ID

$10 for children between 6 and 11.

Children under 6 are free, as are Museum Members.

An Acoustiguide audio tour is included in the ticket price.

Members may purchase an audio tour for $3.

Half-Off Admission: Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Fridays from 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.

(not applicable for Member audio tours).

Admission to the Museum’s permanent collection is always free.
There is a charge for special exhibitions.
Half-price exhibition admission is offered on Tuesdays (all day) and on Fridays from 5–8 p.m.

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24. TEXAS DISCOVERY GARDENS ---

SEPTEMBER 15 – October 21 --- Seasonal Butterfly House
Visit Texas Discovery Gardens' seasonal Butterfly House and be immersed in a magical world of color and motion as native Texas Butterflies fly, feed and rest in a beautiful screened garden of flowering plants. Immerse yourself in “Skies of Butterflies” in our Seasonal Native Butterfly House 2 weeks prior to and during the 2007 State Fair of Texas. A perfect spot for the entire family!

Cost: $3 person

Location: Texas Discovery Gardens is located at 3601 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. in Fair Park. Fair Park is two miles east of downtown Dallas just south of Interstate 30.

For More Information : www.texasdiscoverygardens.org

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25. MARITIME MERRY TIME TUESDAYS (Open Homeschool Swim) --- The Colony Aquatic Park

TUESDAYS THROUGH DECEMBER 18

Time: 1:45 – 3:15 p.m.

The Colony Aquatic Park is eager to get your group back in the swim this fall. The facility is located about 2 miles west of the Frisco Mall.
Cost: Drop Ins: $3 Ages 7 & up
$2- Ages 6 & under (DIRECTLY attended by a swimming adult)
Passes: $45 Individual
$60 Micro Family (2-3 members)
$80 Family (4 members and up)
Please remember- that the term “family” includes only the people who are actually in a legal household (per IRS status).
Fall Season runs August 28 through December 18.
Spring Season runs Jan 8 through April 29

For More Information: Elise Knox 972-624-2225
Swim@TCPARD.Com
www.TCpard.com

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26. DAY CAMPS AT CAMP TONKAWA

Camp Tonkawa is an Outdoor Learning Center, where we like to teach nature through hands on experiences. Located outside of Collinsville, Tx. on a 35 acre tract of land , that is certified as a wildlife refuge.

OCTOBER CAMPS

2-4 Four Season Camp / Autumn Session B

5-7 Primitive Survival 1 & 2
Please check out the web site for all the skills we will be learning in a two nighter camp.
All the skills from the Tom Brown Nature Awareness and Tracking School.
Shelter / Water / Fire / Food
Prepare yourself and your family members for any disaster in this unstable world.
Cost: Children $75 / Teen-adult $100

6 Horsemanship Day Camp
(Also Booking Saturday November 3)
Time: 10-3pm
Cost: $35
Bring your own lunch
Ages: 7 and up (camp size limited to 12)
Details: Five hours of horse hands-on learning and fun. Includes 2 riding sessions.
Learn how to groom, tack, lead, tie, breeds, feeds,health and two riding sessions. Boy and Girl Scouts work on their badges.

8 Nature Awareness Day Camp
Topic: Texas Wildlife
Time: 9:30 – 2:30 p.m
Cost: $15/preregistered; or $18 walk-ins, parents free
Details: Bring your own lunch and notebooks to create your Nature Journal.
Join us for fun learning, songs, games, & nature explorations.
If you are NOT homeschooled, and have the day off for the holiday,
this is your opportunity to participate in our famous "Nature Day".

10 Nature Awareness Day Camps
Topic: Deciduous Forests
Time: 9:30 – 2:30 (includes ½ hour lunch break)
You are welcome to stay until 3:00 to explore, trails, ponds, and tree houses.
Please Bring Picnic lunch.
Cost: $15/preregistered by mail;
$18 walk-ins
4 year-olds $10
Under 4 and parents free
This is not a preschool activity, but younger siblings are welcome to be at the camp, free of charge, under their parent’s supervision.
Ages: Open to ages 4 and up, but under 10 years of age, will require a parent or designated one, in attendance.
Registration: camptonkawa.net/registration form.htm
We need at least 14 children to run a camp and limit it to 30, so register early.
Details: We get the children to create their own "NATURE JOURNAL" to help them remember what they learned from the day and then continue to add things that they find in their own backyards. Please have each child bring their own notebook or sketch book along with pencils. The children can either draw, trace or color in handouts of the animals, plants or nature topic we are talking about. Fun games, songs and activities are done throughout the day to have interaction with new friends and nature. Older students can take notes, which is a great way to add to their Life Science Studies.
NOTE: If we end up with a large teen group in attendance, we will split up the group and provide the teens with a higher level of learning and activity

11 Nature Awareness Day Camps
Topic: Deciduous Forests
Time: 9:30 – 2:30 (Includes ½ hour lunch break)
You are welcome to stay until 3:00 to explore, trails, ponds, and tree houses.
Please Bring Picnic lunch.
Cost: $15/preregistered by mail;
$18 walk-ins
4 year-olds $10
Under 4 and parents free
This is not a preschool activity, but younger siblings are welcome to be at the camp, free of charge, under their parent’s supervision.
Ages: Open to ages 4 and up, but under 10 years of age, will require a parent or designated one, in attendance.
Registration: camptonkawa.net/registration form.htm
We need at least 14 children to run a camp and limit it to 30, so register early.
` Details: We get the children to create their own "NATURE JOURNAL" to help them remember what they learned from the day and then continue to add things that they find in their own backyards. Please have each child bring their own notebook or sketch book along with pencils. The children can either draw, trace or color in handouts of the animals, plants or nature topic we are talking about. Fun games, songs and activities are done throughout the day to have interaction with new friends and nature. Older students can take notes, which is a great way to add to their Life Science Studies.
NOTE: If we end up with a large teen group in attendance, we will split up the group and provide the teens with a higher level of learning and activity. We need at least 14 children to run a camp and limit it to 30, so register early.

23-25 Primitive Survival 1, 2, & 3
Topic: Tracking/Traps/Snare
Time: 9:30 – 2:30 p.m
Cost: Sign up for the five camp series (individual camp rate in parenthesis)
8-12 year olds $100 ($25)
13-15 year olds $125 ($30)
16-adult $150 ($35)

Details: Bring your own lunch, notebook, and knife

28 Primitive Survival Day Camp
Topic: Edible Plants
Details: If you can’t devote 3 days to our primitive camp, this may be the solution for you. 5 Sunday day camps will give you the same survival information.
Cost: Reasonable rates which vary if you sign up for the day or the series.
Price also depends on age.

NOVEMBER
3 Horsemanship Day Camp

7-8 Nature Awareness Day Camp

10-11 Native American Indian Camp

13-16 Staff Training Camp

22 Annual Thanksgiving Feast

For More Information: Contact April at camptonkawa@bigplanet.com or 903-429-6483

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27. HERITAGE FARMSTEAD MUSEUM --- PLANO
The Museum Grounds are Open Year-Round (Except Holidays)
Monday – Friday 9:00am – 4:30pm
Saturday & Sunday 9:00am – 4:30pm
Cost: $2.00 Per Person, Museum members free, children under 4 free
Grounds only, no access to the Farrell-Wilson House or outbuildings.
The Heritage Farmstead Museum Grounds are a great place to take your kids to experience life on the farm. There are, chickens, ducks, a horse, a mule, sheep and goats. For a small entrance fee families can wander the grounds or have a picnic under a shade tree. A great way to pass a few hours on a summer day!

OCTOBER EVENTS
FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH --- Scout Tours
REQUIRE ADVANCE RESERVATIONS.

Times available: 9:30, 10:00, 10:30.

Call the Farmstead office to reserve a date.

Tours are booked on a first come first served basis

Cost: $3.50 per scout, $3.00 per adult, 2 Scout Leaders Free.

(No siblings under 4 years old)

Tours must be PREPAID.

Scouts will receive a patch from the Farmstead.

OCTOBER 2 - Docent Training - Upstairs Session

OCTOBER 5 --- Heritage Harvest Fair

OCTOBER 6- Family Fun Day at Farmstead Time: 1-4pm Theme: Build a Scarecrow. We provide the inside and you bring the outfit. When complete the scarecrow will measure 4 feet in height. There will be activities, old fashioned games and light refreshments. Cost: $6.00 per child (admission, refreshments and supplies) $3.00 per adult (admission and refreshments only). Tours of the 14 room Historic Farrell-Wilson House and grounds are available for an additional special fee of $2.00 per person.
Registration and prepayment is required.
Registration Deadline: October 4th.

OCTOBER 12 --- “The Great Pumpkins” (Fridays at the Farmstead) Using Pumpkins, pumpkin seeds, books and poetry children will explore the world of the pumpkin. We will read several books about Pumpkins. Using colored pumpkin seeds the children will practice sorting by color. Using different size pumpkins the children will practice the concept of Big, Bigger, Biggest. (Sequencing) Other creative arts will be provided. Cost: Non-Members: $6 per child; $3 per adult. Farm Members: $2 per child; Free for adults. ALL PROGRAMS REQUIRE PRE-REGISTRATION. NO GROUP REGISTRATIONS ARE ACCEPTED FOR THE FRIDAY MORNING PROGRAMS.

OCTOBER 26 --- “Goin’ Batty” (Fridays at the Farmstead) We will read the book Stellaluna, a story about an adorable baby fruit bat. Art projects will include making a hanging stuffed bat to hang in your house for the month of October. Cost: Non-Members: $6 per child; $3 per adult. Farm Members: $2 per child; Free for adults. ALL PROGRAMS REQUIRE PRE-REGISTRATION. NO GROUP REGISTRATIONS ARE ACCEPTED FOR THE FRIDAY MORNING PROGRAMS.

For Registration and Other Information: 972-881-0140 http://heritagefarmstead.org/events.htm
Location: Heritage Farmstead Museum

1900 West 15th Street

Plano, TX

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28. STEINWAY CONSTRUCTION TOUR

THROUGH MID-NOVEMBER

This tour shows how a Steinway piano is made by having all of the major parts of the piano disassembled so that everyone can get a firsthand glimpse into these amazing instruments. The seminar that goes with this tour is an engaging and exciting presentation that will explain how all the parts work together.
We would love to have the opportunity to schedule some seminars with your home school organization. Please have anyone interested contact me directly.

We will have this tour between all three of our stores until the middle of November.
For More Information or to schedule an appointment:
Contact Phil Gibbs at 817-665-1853 or 214-893-5962 (cell)

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29. BOOK IT! READING PROGRAM --- NOW ENROLLING FOR 2007-2008 SCHOOL YEAR

The Book It! Reading Program is sponsored by Pizza Hut and runs from October 2007 through March 2008. It is available for children in grades kindergarten through sixth grade. Home schools may participate, and families can choose to sign up individually or through their support group.

The reading program allows the children to earn free personal pan pizzas for meeting their reading goals.

For Enrollment Information: http://www.bookitprogram.com/enrollment/k6enroll.asp

For Homeschool Enrollment: www.bookitprogram.com/enrollment/homeschool.asp

Phone Number: 1-800-426-6548 (M-F: 9 am. – 4 p.m. CT)

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30. BRAUMS BOOK BUDDY READING CLUB --- NOW ENROLLING FOR 2007-2008

Braum's Book Buddy is a fun and rewarding reading incentive program for children in 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades. The Braum's Book Buddy program gives children the opportunity to read for delicious prizes from Braum's! Each child can earn up to six Braum's treats throughout the year including Single Dip Sundaes, Single Dip Ice Cream Cones and more! The best part...it costs nothing to participate in Braum's Book Buddy reading program. We're happy to offer this program to elementary schools and home schools absolutely free! At Braum's, we want to promote a positive attitude in children for a lifetime love of reading.

For More Information: www.braums.com/bookbuddy.asp

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31. SMOOTHING THE WAY MEETINGS --- NORTH TEXAS

Smoothing the Way is a support group dedicated to serving first-year homeschooling mothers. Each month a topic of specific interest to the new homeschooler is offered. We will offer you information that will make your first year less confusing. We will also offer you the opportunity to meet other new homeschoolers who are sharing your experiences — both good and bad! You will meet veteran homeschoolers who can reassure you that these experiences are very normal and can help you to navigate through your first year.

ARLINGTON --- OCTOBER 23
Time: 7:30 p.m.
To RSVP or for More Information: bonbonmom4@yahoo.com

ATHENS --- OCTOBER 16
Time: 6:30 p.m.
To RSVP or for More Information: furlongs9@earthlink.net
903-469-4031

DENTON --- OCTOBER 4
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Denton Bible Church
Modular 7
To RSVP or for More Information: cbrazzel@juno.com
940-206-0796

NORTH RICHLAND HILLS --- OCTOBER 1
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Davis Boulevard Baptist Church
5408 Davis Boulevard
North Richland Hills, TX 76180
To RSVP or for More Information: marlain@aol.com
817-905-5427

PLANO --- OCTOBER 30
Time: 7:00 p.m.
To RSVP or for More Information: beverlystewart@gmail.com
Location: 1301 Custer Road in Plano, Texas.
Map to our location: theosonline.org/Location.htm

Don’t Live Near a Smoothing the Way Group?
If you don’t live near a Smoothing the Way group, but would like to have access to the information, ask about their Teacher Training Course.

For Information about Smoothing the Way groups near you, or to find out how you can lead a group: http://www.smoothingtheway.com/

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32. STAR PARTIES at FORT WORTH MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND HISTORY

Have you ever seen the rings of Saturn? Have you ever wanted to view the moons of Jupiter? Have you been dazzled by a star cluster? Are you in the market for a telescope and don't know where to start? This and more can be discovered every month outside the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History during the free monthly telescope observing. The star gazing events are held every month on area north of the Museum on the Saturday nearest the first quarter moon, weather permitting. They are presented by the Noble Planetarium staff and members of the Fort Worth Astronomical Society.

The monthly star parties will continue through November.

OCTOBER 20 (location subject to change)
NOVEMBER 17 (location subject to change)

Time: Dusk – 11 p.m.

Cost: FREE

Location: Join us on the north parking lot to view the night sky through telescopes provided by the Noble Planetarium and the Fort Worth Astronomical Society.

For more information: Contact Linda Krouse at 817-255-9409
http://fortworthmuseum.org/noble/parties.html

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33. PROGRAMS AT LOG CABIN VILLAGE

Location: 2100 Log Cabin Village Lane
Fort Worth, TX

817-392-5881

OCTOBER 19 --- Timber Tales: Preschool StoryTime
Featured Story: Anansi the Spider: A Tale from the Ashanti by Gerald McDermott
Time: 10 a.m. – 11 am.
Admission: $3 (includes story, craft, and activities)
Ages: 3-5 years old
Details: Step back into the world of 1800s Texas ! Little "Villagers" can don bonnets, aprons, and vests as they gather 'round to hear stories of days gone by.
Reservations Required: Call 817-392-6769.

OCTOBER 20 --- Maize Days
Time: 1:00—4:00 p.m.
Admission: Regular Village admission plus $3 craft fee.
Details: Ears (of corn, that is) will be flying as the Village is alive with activities highlighting corn’s important role in 19th century Texas life and culture. Visitors can grind corn in a molcajete, smell delicious corn delicacies cooking in the Parker Cabin, learn about a “shucking bee,” and see corn processed in the Grist Mill. Make a corn husk doll before you head home!
Reservations: None required.

NOVEMBER 16 --- Timber Tales: Preschool StoryTime
Featured Story: Hog Music by Mary-Claire Helldorfer
Time: 10 a.m. – 11 am.
Admission: $3 (includes story, craft, and activities)
Ages: 3-5 years old
Details: Step back into the world of 1800s Texas ! Little "Villagers" can don bonnets, aprons, and vests as they gather 'round to hear stories of days gone by.
Reservations Required: Call 817-392-6769.

NOVEMBER 17 --- Get the Lard Out
Time: 1:00—4:00 p.m.
Admission: Regular Village admission plus $3 craft fee.
Details: Pioneers were the ultimate recyclers! Learn how the philosophy of “Waste Not Want Not” played into the daily life of Texans in the 1800s. Soap-making, butter-churning, candle-dipping, and more will be discussed. You can even dip your own candles to take home!
Reservations: None required.

For More Information: www.logcabinvillage.org

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34. DALLAS THUNDER HOME SCHOOL BASKETBALL ---- REGISTRATION OPEN

REGISTRATION OPEN
The 2007-2008 Dallas Thunder Homeschool Basketball Organization is currently registering boys and girls for the following teams: 18 & under, 16 & under, 14 & under, 12 & under, 10 & under.
Dallas Thunder offers:
Christ-centered, competitive Basketball for Home schooled boys and girls
Experienced, Professional Coaches
The opportunity to play top public and private schools in the area
Participation in the National Christian Homeschool Basketball Tournament.

For more information: Robert Glaess at (972) 636-7299 or David Parker at (972) 475-3946.
Website: www.dallasthunder.org

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35. JUNIOR HIGH GIRLS BASKETBALL PLAYERS NEEDED: THESA RIDERS

The THESA Riders have only 5 girls for the squad and may not be able to field a girls junior high team. They need at least 3 more girls to field a team.

If you know any junior high girls who would like to participate, please contact:
Ronnie Liggett at rwliggett@tx.rr.com
www.thesariders.org
Please help get the word out! Thank You!

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36. PSAT/SAT PREP CLASSES
Help your high school student improve his College Board Test Scores and thus increase opportunities for college admissions and scholarships.

8-Week Course (begins August 13) includes: Test-taking strategies Critical Reading Vocabulary Study (including Gk. and Lat. roots)

Math Short-cuts Practice on SAT and PSAT tests
Success stories abound!

Fall 2006 PSAT Test Results Update---Exciting news! So far I have heard from four of my 11th graders (Prep Class students) who scored 217 or above which should guarantee them National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist or Finalist status!

Cost: $250
Visit www.maryhamilton.us or call 921-4044

Math Instruction – Math Classes Small Classes! Experienced Teacher (30 yrs. +) Only $6.00 per class. Register now for fall. First class meets Sept. 4th. Classes offered: Algebra ½ Geometry Algebra 1 Adv. Math. (Pre-Calculus) Algebra 2 PSAT/SAT Prep. Course
Private tutoring is also available.
Former math students are recipients of scholarships (including Air Force Academy, Nat’l Hispanic Scholars, and National Merit Scholars) and perfect math scores on the PSAT and SAT tests.
Contact: Mary Hamilton, M.Ed. at email: m_s_hamilton@yahoo.com or phone: (817) 921-4404

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37. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR LITTLE HANDS ON THE FARM --- STATE FAIR OF TEXAS

SEPTEMBER 28 – OCTOBER 21

What is Little Hands on the Farm: Little Hands on the Farm is the Number 1, most talked about attraction at the fair. It is located prominently in the agricultural area within feet of the petting zoo, coliseum and the Cotton Bowl. We are expecting nearly 1,000 family members per hour to move through this featured attraction.

Volunteers Needed: We need 50 volunteers each day, 25 “farmer assistants” in two 5 hour shifts to be an integral part of the educational process. We can combine several small groups if you find it difficult to locate a full 50 within your group. Volunteers must be at least 12 years of age (younger ones can come but cannot be counted as a volunteer) and we need 1 “adult” volunteer for every 3 “children” volunteers.

Many of those who volunteered last year signed up their family members. This allowed the entire family to come to the fair (a $100 value for a family of five), provide community service, spend five hours interacting with thousands of people, introduce children to where their food comes from and spend the remainder of the day visiting the rest of the fair.

Shift Hours: The Little Hands program opens at 10:00am and closes at 7:00pm. The first shift would arrive on the grounds at 8:45am and start at 9:00am with orientation. The morning group of volunteers would finish at 2:15pm, the second group arrives at 1:45pm, starts at 2:00pm and finishes at 7:15pm.

Benefits: State Fair of Texas provides each volunteer a Little Hands t-shirt, an admission ticket to the fair and parking passes for each family. We ask everyone to car pool as much as possible as parking in the Blue lot is always crowded.

If your family or group would like to participate: Contact Sondra or Candyce at 817-279-8223 or sondra@owranchtx.com.

Dates for LIttle hands on the Farm
Friday, September 28th PM only
Sunday, September 30th AM and PM

Monday, October 1st PM only
Friday, October 5th AM and PM
Saturday, October 6th, AM only

Saturday, October 13th AM and PM

Thursday, October 18th PM only
Friday, October 19th AM and PM
Saturday, October 20th AM and PM
Sunday, October 21st AM and PM

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38. KELLER 4H CLUB MEETINGS --- October

OCTOBER 2 --- Keller 4-HClub Meeting
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Location: Keller Lions Club

OCTOBER 13 --- Field Trip to Angora Goat Farm in Keller
Location: Meet at Lions club and Carpool to the Farm

OCTOBER 18 --- Entries Due for 4-H Talent Night on November 2

OCTOBER 18 --- Possible Date for Make a Ceramic Tile Workshop
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Sunshine Glaze in Southlake Town Square
Date and Cost to Be Confirmed

OCTOBER 27 --- Hay Ride/Halloween Fun Booths
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: 4-H County President’s Horse Ranch (address and details to follow)
Cost: $1 per person

NOVEMBER 2 --- Entries Due for 4-H County Food Show to be held November 17

NOVEMBER 2 --- 4-H Talent Night
Location: Meadowbrook Methodist Church
3900 Meadowbrook Drive
Fort Worth, TX 76103
Details: Entries are Due Thurs October 18.
See Website: http://tarrant.tamu.edu/youth/4-H & Scroll Down to Current Events

NOVEMBER 6 --- Keller 4-H Club Meeting/2^nd Field Trip to Angora Goat Farm
Time: 7 p.m.
Details: Come and see a sonogram done on an expectant mother goat and learn many interesting facts about goats.

NOVEMBER 17 --- 4-H CountyFood Show
Time: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: Tarrant County Extension Office
200 Taylor Street, Suite 500
Fort Worth

NOVEMBER --- Date TBA – Leathercraft Workshop
Location: Hidecrafters Leather Store
7936 Camp Bowie West Boulevard
Fort Worth, TX 76116
Cost: $2 - $5 for supplies. Workshop is free.

For more information or to RSVP: Contact Kathryn Schruba at K.Schruba@tcu.edu

What is 4-H?
4H provides youth an opportunity to pursue their own interests - from photography to computers science, from entrpreneurship to entomology. There are a wide range of activities to choose from. You don’t have to raise livestock to be a member of 4-H!

4H Clubs also allow young people to serve as officers and learn to conduct meetings, handle club funds, and facilitate group decision-making. In a growing number of communities, 4-H youth serve as youth representatives in municipal or county government or as members of Teen Courts. They give back to their communities. 4-H members get involved in volunteer projects to protect the environment, mentor younger children and help people who are less fortunate.

A list of 4-H projects is available online: http://texas4-h.tamu.edu/projects/index.html

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39. HOME SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE AT VELOCITY SPORTS/HIGHLAND PARK

You and your family are cordially invited to attend:
A Home School Open House

Join us for an afternoon of Free Food, Fun, and Fitness!

OCTOBER 3
Time: 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Location: Velocity Sports Performance in Highland Park
7830 N. Central Expressway
Dallas, TX 75206

Cost: FREE

RSVP: Mark Cox at 214-739-1122

Details: We are very excited to announce that Velocity Sports Performance in Highland Park has partnered with HEART of Texas to offer special discounts to our members. They will begin offering home school physical education courses in October!

They will host a Home School Open House, and ALL homeschoolers are invited! It's FREE, so bring your whole family for an afternoon of food, fun, and fitness!

ü Come meet the coaches
ü Check out their facilities
ü Free food and games
ü Meet other home school families in your area

OCTOBER 15 --- Home School PE Classes Begin
Time: 12 p.m. Monday-Thursday
Sign up today, or come to the Open House to learn more!
Come meet other home schoolers
Special tailored programs
For all skill levels – whether you are just looking for physical activity or want to become an elite athlete!
Exclusive home school pricing offer for HEART of Texas members - as low as $14 per session

To View the Invitation:
http://www.heartoftex.org/news/files/bd4f657cc8f449eff13cae8b1edd6465-14.html

To Learn More About Velocity Sports:
www.velocitysp.com/highlandpark

To Find Out About HEART of Texas Membership:
Email us at info@heartoftex.org
Or visit www.heartoftex.org and view our membership page.

Velocity Sports Performance is a sports training facility with a staff of degreed and certified coaches. Their programs focus on all facets of athletic performance, including speed and agility, strength and explosive power, flexibility and mobility, endurance and energy system development, and injury risk prevention.

Their 18,200 sq. ft. indoor facility includes a 30 yard turf field, 60 yard speed track, regulation volleyball court, Olympic weight area, comfortable viewing area for parents/coaches with wireless internet, men's and women's showers, electronic timing system and video analysis, and SPARQ testing.

HEART of Texas is working with other retailers and organizations in the north Texas to create special partnership discounts for HEART of Texas members, and will be announcing those very soon!

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40. HOME SCHOOL DAY AT THE FORT WORTH ZOO

OCTOBER 4

All home-schooled children, and their families, are invited to a fun-filled educational day in the wilds of the Zoo on Thursday, October 4, 2007. Keeper chats and activity stations tailor-made for home-schoolers will be available throughout the park. Enjoy asking keepers your best animal questions around the Zoo's world-class exhibits, and consider purchasing additional tickets to the Zoo's Wild Wonders Live Animal Program and/or lunch!

Wild Wonders Live Animal Program:
The Wild Wonders program will be presented inside the Zoo at the Pavilion for easy access during the event. You must pre-purchase your tickets by September 26, 2007, for this program as attendance is by reservation only. One ticket with total number of participants is issued for each group. Refer to the Registration Form for all Wild Wonders program times.

Lunches: Pre-ordered lunch pick-up will be located in the Bluebonnet Café in Texas Wild! You must pre-purchase your tickets for this particular lunch as it is by reservation only. Refer to the Registration Form to order your lunches and select a pick-up time. Please be aware if you are purchasing for a group, you will receive only one ticket with your group number for your entire group. Participants must have a ticket to receive lunches.

Registration Deadline:
You may pre-purchase your discounted Zoo admission tickets, lunches and Wild Wonders program tickets by Wednesday, September 26, 2007.

If you register on-site the day of the event, only discounted admission tickets will be available. Lunch and Wild Wonders program tickets are only available by pre-registering before September 26, 2007. Sorry, no phone registrations. (See ticket pick-up information below.)

To Register (by mail or fax only):
Download the Home School Day Registration Form at www.fortworthzoo.com/school/homeschool.html
And fax the completed form with payment information to 817-759-7201

OR

Mail* completed form with payment (postmarked by Wednesday, September 26, 2007) to:

Fort Worth Zoo
Education Department
1989 Colonial Parkway
Fort Worth, Texas 76110

* Mailed forms must be postmarked no later than Wednesday, September 26, 2007. You may send credit card information or a check (no temporary checks). PLEASE DO NOT SEND CASH. If faxed, please call 817/759-7200 after faxing to confirm receipt.

Ticket Pick-Up:
Before October 4: You may pick up your receipt and tickets between Monday, September 17, 2007 and Saturday 28, 2007 at Guest Relations during regular Zoo operating hours. Photo identification is required.

October 4: On the day of the event, go to the WILL CALL station located to the right of the Ticket Booth. The WILL CALL station opens at 9:30 a.m. Photo identification is required to pick up your receipt and tickets. The Zoo opens at 10 a.m.

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41. LONE STAR HISTORY DAY: A SPECIAL DAY FOR HOME SCHOOL STUDENTS

OCTOBER 5
Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

In a day just for home schooled students and their families, explore art throughout our historic buildings. How do people make art a part of their life? What kinds of art were admired in the 19th century? How did ordinary people become artists?

We'll be exploring 5 key areas of art: Portraits; Ordinary Objects Made Beautiful; Fine Art; Advertising Art ; and Hobbies

Some questions that we will be asking and answering during this event are:
How do history and art intersect?
How and why have once common artistic skills become specialized skills?
How did people from the past make their homes beautiful?
How is art a part of our everyday lives?

Explore the art within the Village through a specially designed History Hunt. Enjoy demonstrations from our resident blacksmith and potter. Visit with our historic characters, and experiment with some of the crafts they know so well. Try your hand at special activities hosted by Tandy Leather and the Dallas Museum of Art.

Tickets: $5 ages 4 and up (1 free adult per family)
Members Free

To Register:
• Mail—simply print out the online registration form and mail it in with your payment.
• Online—Pay with a credit card online. But please fax or mail the appropriate registration form to us.
• Phone—Call Reservations at 214-413-3674 between 8:00 a.m. and Noon, Monday through Friday.
• Fax—Fax the form with credit card information to 214-428-6351.

Online Registration Form: http://www.dallasheritagevillage.org/Event_Detail.aspx?EID=142

Which registration form do I use?
If you’re part of a homeschool group or co-op and you plan to arrive together or in no more than 3 small groups, please fill out the Group Registration Form. If your group is planning to arrive separately, please fill out one Family Registration Form for each family. This will streamline the check-in process, so you can get started on your day as soon as possible.
If your family is registering on your own, please fill out the Family Registration Form.

Registration Deadline: September 28

What if it rains?
This event will occur rain or shine. All activities will be moved indoors, but please remember that we are an outdoor museum.

Can we bring a picnic?
Absolutely! We have a designated picnic area, Nancy’s Garden, with a limited number of picnic tables for you to enjoy your lunch. The Museum Store (located in the Ticket Office) has drinks and snacks available to purchase.

For Directions to Dallas Heritage Village: http://www.dallasheritagevillage.org/MapsDirections.aspx
Directions are available here. Parking is free and overflow parking is available in a field adjacent to our Visitor’s Parking Lot. Special Event parking instructions do not apply.

For More Information: Pat Vaughan, Reservations Coordinator at 214-413-3674

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42. THESA HIGH SCHOOL & JUNIOR HIGH BASEBALL TRYOUTS

OCTOBER 6
Time: 11 am 2 p.m.

Time and Location: Cross Timbers Park in North Richland Hills

For More Information: www.thesariders.org/baseball page.htm

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43. IRVINGS 1^ST ANNUAL HOMESCHOOL SHOWCASE --- LEE PARK RECREATION CENTER

OCTOBER 6

Registration Begins August 1

Time: 11 am. – 4 p.m.

Location: Lee Park Recreation Center
Irving, TX
(just 7 minutes from DFW airport)

Cost: $5 per family

Details: Do your children like to paint? Write? Create? Coming in October will be a wonderful opportunity for our homeschooled children to showcase their many talents!
The fair will be open to all Irving homeschooling families and/or those that are members of an Irving based Homeschool Group. Pre-registration is required with registration forms available
August 1.

For More Information: www.irvinghomeschoolers.com
www.homeschoolblogger.com/clife

or contact Tyrone at Lee Park Recreation Center 972-721-2508
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44. FARMSTEAD FAMILY FESTIVAL --- HERITAGE FARMSTEAD IN PLANO

OCTOBER 6

Registration Deadline --- OCTOBER 4

Time: 1 – 4 p.m.

Location: Heritage Farmstead Museum
1900 West 15^th Street
Plano, TX 75075

Cost: $6 per child (includes admission, refreshments and supplies)
$3 per adult (includes admission and refreshments only)
Registration and prepayment are required.

Details: This year’s theme is “Build a Scarecrow.” We provide the inside and you bring the outfit. When complete the scarecrow will measure 4 feet in height. Activities, old fashioned games and light refreshments will be served. Tours of the 14 room Historic Farrell-Wilson House and grounds are available for an additional special fee of $2.00 per person.

For information and registration: 972-881-0140.

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45. TEXAS FRESHWATER FISHERIES ANNUAL BIG FISH BLUEGILL TOURNAMENT

OCTOBER 7
Time: 7 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Final weigh-in at Anglers Pavilion at 2:30 p.m.

Location: Lake Athens

Cost: $15/team (includes admission to TFFC)
Angler teams consist of one child under 17 years and one adult.

Sign Up: Sign up in advance or morning of tournament.

Details: Family-oriented fishing tournament on Lake Athens. Trophies and prizes awarded to top five teams. Door prizes awarded. Angler teams consist of one child under 17 years and one adult. Teams compete for the largest stringer of sunfish. Each team allowed to weigh in their four largest sunfish.

For More Information: 903-676-BASS
Or visit www.tpwd.state.tx.us/newsmedia/calendar/?calpage=a0209

Free TPWD Coloring and Activity Books to Download: www.tpwd.state.tx.us/publications/learning/color/

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46. HOMESCHOOL ROBIN HOOD DAY CAMP + GUIDED TOUR ---- FOSSIL RIM

OCTOBER 8

Time: 2:00 – 3:30ish p.m.

Cost: Cost will be on a sliding scale. Bring your friends along and reduce your cost.
10-11 people signed up, cost for entire day will be 40 per person,
12-15 people - $30 per person
16-19 people - $25 per person
20 or more - $20 per person
children 2 and under free.

What to Bring: Bring sack lunch to eat at noon. dress as favorite Robin Hood character if you like!
After classes and activities are done, will conclude with guided tour of fossil Rim from 2 - 3:30ish.

For more Details: www.fossilrim.com/visiting/home_school.html
To Register: homeschool@fossilrim.org
or call 254-897-2960 ext. 216

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47. WILD HOME SCHOOL DAYS AT SHARKAROSA

OCTOBER 9 & 10

Registration Deadline --- October 3

Time: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Cost: $5/person
Pre -registration/payment is required.
All registration must be received by Wednesday, October 3rd.

To Download Registration Form: http://www.sharkarosa.com/

Location: Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch
Contact: Sharkarosa@aol.com

Details: Education and conservation groups from around the metroplex are gathering at Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch for two days only to bring North Texas Home Schoolers an incredible WILD ADVENTURE!

A mix of hands-on activities, demonstrations, presentations and good old fashioned fun are all a part of this year's Wild Home School Days! Every participating organization has been hand selected for their continued commitment to the education of our Texas youth.

In addition to the fabulous regular activities Sharkarosa will be offering (Safari Wagon tours, hay rides, train rides and interaction with our amazing educational animals), we've asked some amazing DFW groups to join us!

Just a handful of the scheduled activities:

*What's an Endangered Species?
*Native plants & animals of Texas
*Wilderness Survival
*Animal Tracks
*Wilderness First Aid for kids
*Say NO to drugs and alcohol
*What to do if I find a baby animal?
*SNAKES!
*Field games led by instructors of the award-winning Project Wild curriculum

A FEW OF THE WONDERFUL PARTICIPATING ORGANIZATIONS:

*Animal World and Snake Farm - as seen on The Discovery Channel's Dirty Jobs
*911Wildlife - as seen on Animal Planet
*StaySafe - a branch of the amazing D.A.R.E drug program
*Texas Master Naturalists
*Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
*Project Wild
*Hero's Denton

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48. 8-WEEK SAT PREP COURSE AT CREATIVE ARTS IN ACTION IN WATAUGA

OCTOBER 12 --- Classes Begin
Time: 3:30 p.m. on Fridays for 8 weeks

Prerequisites: Algebra 1; Geometry and Algebra 2 are desired, but not required.

Details: Creative Arts In Action is pleased to offer a SAT prep course with Marc Sandefur, beginning October 12th, 2007 and running for 8 weeks. Each class will be 2 hours 15 minutes long to effectively cover the material. The class will be held on Fridays at 3:30pm.
This SAT math review course will familiarize students with the format of the SAT, and teach testing techniques and strategies. A diagnostic test will first be given. Then each class will consist of a timed practice test, followed by a discussion of any questions the students have about problems they could not successfully work. There will be a comprehensive review of basic mathematics, algebra and geometry concepts each class, with appropriate homework assigned. Homework questions will also be addressed.

Success on the SAT is vital to homeschoolers who are college bound, in order to maximize your scholarship opportunities. Don't miss this opportunity to be ready to excel.

For more information: Contact Creative Arts in Action at 817-281-2293
or visit www.creativeartsinaction.com/Classes_in_SAT_Math_Prep.htm

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49. NORTH TEXAS REGIONAL NATIONAL ENGINEERS WEEK FUTURE CITY COMPETITION
FOR 7-8^TH GRADERS

OCTOBER 15 --- Registration Deadline

This program gives middle school students a fun way to tackle real-world problems while building their math, science and technology skills.

Ages: Teams of seventh and eighth grade students, with the guidance of a teacher and an engineer, design a city using SimCity software.

Cost: Cost is minimal and we provide the software. The winning team gets a trip to Washington, DC to compete in the national finals.

Details: Last year was the seventh year DFW hosted a regional competition. More than 600 students participated. Dozens of engineers have already signed up to support the 2007-08 competition. We need your help to notify middle school teachers of this exciting, worthwhile opportunity, which is aligned to national educational technology standards***.

Registration continues through October 15.

For More Information: Contact Jean Eason at j.eason@ieee.org
or visit www.dfwfuturecity.org

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50. OFFICIAL PSAT/NMSQT TEST DATES

The PSAT/NMSQT, also known as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, is a standardized test that provides practice for the SAT. Additionally, the PSAT/NMSQT gives students a chance to enter the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) scholarship programs in their 11^th grade year. A student may take the test for practice in the years preceding his 11^th grade year, but the student’s test score will county toward the National Merit Scholarship program only in his 11^th grade year.

OCTOBER 17 & 20

Registration Deadline: ASAP
Check with your local public high school ASAP for registration information. Most of the schools are accepting registrations beginning the week of September 17.

Schools only offer the test on one of the two official dates. Check with your local public school to find out which date they are offering the test.

By State Law, public schools that offer the PSAT/NMSQT test must allow home schoolers that live within their district to take the test. The law also states that public schools are not permitted to charge home schoolers a higher test fee than they charge their own students.

Here is a copy of the law, which went into effect September 1, 2007, for your reference:

www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/80R/billtext/html/HB01844F.htm

If you contact a school that offers the test and they do not allow your child to register, please contact the Texas Home School Coalition by email at staff@thsc.org. Please include the following information in your correspondence:

Date you contacted the school
School District
School
Name of the person(s) you spoke with
Details of the conversation: reason(s) they give for not allowing your child to test at their school, etc.

For More Information about the PSAT/NMSQT: www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/psat/about.html

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51. HSAA HOME SCHOOL VARSITY & JUNIOR VARSITY BASEBALL TRYOUTS

All High School homeschooled baseball players (grades 9-12) are eligible to try out for the Varsity team. Those high school players (grades 9-11) who do not make the Varsity are eligible to try out for the JV team.

OCTOBER 20 – Varsity Baseball Tryouts
Time: 9:30 a.m.
Location: Mark Twain Park in Richardson, TX

OCTOBER 20 --- Varsity Baseball Tryouts
Time: To Be Determined

OCTOBER 23 & 25 --- Varsity Baseball Tryouts
Time: 10 a.m. - Noon
Location: Mark Twain Park in Richardson, TX

For More Information: Randy Scott (Varsity Baseball) - 972-407-1168
Tad Preston (JV Baseball) - 972-712-8780
www.hsaa.org

Dallas Angels
2005 Homeschool World Series Champions
HSAA Dallas Angels Baseball is an active member of the Homeschool World Series Association (HWSA)

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52. THSC LEADERSHIP TRAINING CONFERENCE --- WAXAHACHIE, TX

OCTOBER 26-28

Registration Deadline: October 16

Location: Lakeview Camp and Conference Center

Home School Leaders Are Cordially Invited!

Join leaders from across the state for a time of inspirational and practical workshops about bettering your home school group!

Your group will benefit from the ideas you bring home!

For More Information and to Download Registration Forms: www.thsc.org/retreat/default.asp

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53. HOME SCHOOL NATURE JOURNALING EVENT AND TOUR --- FOSSIL RIM

OCTOBER 29
Time: 10 – 4ish

Cost: Cost will be on a sliding scale. Bring your friends along and reduce your cost.
10-11 people signed up, cost for entire day will be 40 per person,
12-15 people - $30 per person
16-19 people - $25 per person
20 or more - $20 per person
children 2 and under free

Learn 4 different nature journaling techniques. During our art class, learn some basic art techniques to enhance your nature journaling experiences. Our bus tour will stop at 3 different locations where we will spend some time drawing.

For more Details: www.fossilrim.com/visiting/home_school.html
To Register: homeschool@fossilrim.org
or call 254-897-2960 ext. 216

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54. NCFCA PRACTICE SPEECH AND DEBATE TOURNAMENT IN WATAUGA

JUDGES NEEDED!!!

NOVEMBER 17

7:30 a.m. Orientation & Debate Round 1
9:15 a.m. Orientation & Debate Round 2
11:00 a.m. Orientation & Speech Round 1
12:45 p.m. Orientation & Debate Round 3
2:30 p.m. Orientation & Debate Round 4
4:15 p.m. Orientation & Speech Round 2
6:00 p.m. Orientation & Debate Round 5

Location: 1^st Baptist Church
6124 Plum Street
Watauga, TX 76148

Details: Join us for the first NCFCA Practice Speech & Debate tournament of the 2007-2008 season! You’ll be impressed and amazed by the poise & confidence of the high school students as they debate this year’s hot issues: Immigration & Isolationism.

Volunteers are needed from the community to help judge the competitions. Volunteering has never been easier!

How To Volunteer: Visit www.speakoutntx.com/1117volunteer.html
Sign up to judge 1-2 rounds.

No prior experience needed!
A 30-minute Judge’s Orientation will be provided before events
Complimentary food and beverages served all day!

For Additional Tournament information: see www.speakoutntx.com/tournaments.html.

For more information about the NCFCA: www.ncfca.org

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55. TEEN PACT LEADERSHIP SCHOOL COMING TO TEXAS --- APRIL 21-25

REGISTRATION OPEN

APRIL 21-24, 2008 – Four-Day Class (ages 13-19)

APRIL 25, 2008 – One-Day Class (ages 8-12)
Public Speaking Class (ages 13-19)

Location: The State Capitol in Austin
Details: TeenPact Leadership School trains young people to be leaders who will impact the nation and the world for Jesus Christ. Unlike typical youth camps, TeenPact strives with single mindedness, to inspire and train youth to be knowledgeable, effective, and bold leaders for God. TeenPact is a comprehensive leadership experience that challenges students to grow both personally and spiritually.
Registration only requires a $50 deposit and the balance will be due 10 days before the class.

Cost:
Four-Day Class (ages 13-19) is $209.
Discounts are as follows:
• Alumni Discount - $50
• Double early Bird (by Sept 30) - $20
• Early Bird - $20
• World View Academy Alumni - $15
• Generation Joshua Club Officers - $15
• 2007 State Class Elected Officials - $15
• Group of 10 or more first-time students - $20
• Group of 20 or more first-time students - $30

To put together a group, each registrant will need to register online individually and have one person contact the TeenPact office (1-888-343-1776) and give the list of registrant names to Sarah Hines.

One-Day Class (ages 8-12) is $34.
Discounts are as follows:
• Each Additional Sibling - $5
• Double Early Bird (by Sept 30) - $5
• Early Bird - $5
• Group of 10 or more students - $5

"Public Speaking Only" class is $40.
If attended in conjunction with the regular TeenPact Four-Day class, the Public Speaking class is $35.

For those students who do not wish to commute to the State Capitol, we are offering a residential camp at the beautiful Twin Oaks Ranch in Buda for an additional fee.

For Texas Class Information or to Register: www.teenpact.com/stateclass/stateclass.php?state=TX

For More Information: Contact Suzi Tifft at SuziTifft@aol.com
Or 830-626-1177 or 830-643-4563 (cell)
www.teenpact.com

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56. REGISTRATION UNDER WAY AT TARRANT COUNTY COLLEGE FOR HOME SCHOOL CLASSES --- FREE MATH ASSESSMENT

NW Campus is offering PreAlgebra, Algebra I, Algebra II and college Algebra.

SE Campus Algebra I, Algebra II, College Algebra.

NW Campus is offering Biology in fall and Chemistry in spring.

FREE math assessment tests offered upon request.
Cost equates to $3.50 an hour, $166 for entire semester including book.

For More Information: Call Maurine Amend at 972-660-8414

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57. VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE for HOME SCHOOLERS IN 21 COUNTIES ---- AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY

The American Cancer Society is the largest nonprofit voluntary organization in the world. The Society depends on the competence, creativity and dedication of its 2 million volunteers nationwide to achieve its mission. Along with learning the value of volunteering in your community we can offer your home schooled student a way to apply all they are learning in a real world atmosphere.

Counties in the North Texas Region of the American Cancer Society: Dallas, Tarrant, Denton, Rockwall, Parker, Palo Pinto, Wise, Cooke, Grayson, Fannin, Collin, Hunt, Rains, Kaufman, Ellis, Johnson, Eastland, Comanche, Erath, Hood, Rockwall

For more information: Contact Shirley Dial
817.570.0612
shirley_dial@cancer.org

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