November 2007
HEART OF TEXAS
Home Educators Alliance for Resources and Training of Texas, Inc.
NOVEMBER 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
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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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HOME SCHOOL PE CLASSES AVAILABLE AT VELOCITY SPORTS
HIGHLAND PARK AND SOUTHLAKE LOCATIONS
We are very excited to announce that the Velocity Sports Performance locations in Highland Park and Southlake have partnered with HEART of Texas to offer special discounts to homeschoolers!
The PE programs at Velocity Sports are taught by trained, degreed coaches who have coached college, professional, and Olympic level athletes.
Classes are one hour long, and focus on speed enhancement, strength, power, agility, core development, flexibility, and balance. Participants can expect increased muscle tone, a higher vertical jump, better running form, reduced likelihood of injury, increased confidence and increased endurance.
Their 16,300 square foot indoor facility is climate-controlled and features turf, track, hard court, and weight areas, as well as a viewing area for parents/guests.
Please Note: Each Velocity Sports location is independently owned and operated, and offer different pricing and discount rates for their classes. Please contact the location directly for more information.
For the Highland Park Location:
Call Mark Cox at 214-739-1122
www.velocitysp.com/highlandpark
For the Southlake Location:
Call 817-416-0606
www.velocitysp.com/southlake
View Newsletter Headers
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NOVEMBER 5
TIM AND LYNDSAY LAMBERT OF THSC TO SPEAK IN CANTON
Location: Lakeside Baptist Church
1291 Old Kaufman Road
Time: 7 p.m.
For Directions: http://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=1&view=page&name=js&ver=18zefn591xl4u
Childcare Available: Childcare will be provided for children 4 and under for $2 per child. Reservations must be made by November 1. Children 5 and up will have a Wheel Day in the parking lot. Bring a wheel item (skates, bikes, rollerblades, skateboard, etc.) In the event of rain, bring board games for gym play. No cost or reservations for the Wheel Day are required.
To RSVP: pathofficers@yahoo.com for information and reservations.
View Newsletter Headers
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NOVEMBER 6
TIM AND LYNDSAY LAMBERT OF THSC TO SPEAK IN DENTON
Location: Singing Oaks Church of Christ
101 Cardinal Drive
Denton, TX
Time: 6:30 p.m. - 8:45 p.m.
Childcare Not Provided
To RSVP: Contact Rosanne LeRoy at 972-317-5032
rosanneleroy@tx.rr.com
View Newsletter Headers
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NOVEMBER 9
TEENA GOBLE SPEAKING AT CROSS TIMBERS CHURCH IN KELLER
Time: 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Location: Cross Timbers Church, Keller
2525 Florence
Roanoke
Details: Teena Goble is going to be presenting How To Win the Heart of Your Child
For Online Map: http://keller.crosstimberschurch.org/?p=8161
Child Care: $5 per family. Child care is available by registration to Shannon Martin at smartin@crosstimberschurch.org
Spouses are welcome and encouraged to attend. Please feel free to forward this to anyone you think would enjoy this presentation!
If you would like to hear Teena's presentation, please e-mail Teri Jones, terij@crosstimberschurch.org, by Tuesday, Nov. 6 to register for child care.
View Newsletter Headers
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NOVEMBER 16
REGISTRATION DEADLINE FOR
NORTH TEXAS 4TH ANNUAL CAREER EXPO AT DFW AIRPORT FOR STUDENTS
DFW International Airport, the Federal Aviation Administration and American Airlines are pleased to invite your home school or support group to attend North Texas’ Fourth Annual Career Expo at DFW Airport. Representatives from industry, government, and academia have joined forces to introduce our community youth and educators to a multitude of career paths offered by the aviation and transportation industry.
DECEMBER 14
Reservations Accepted through NOVEMBER 16, on a first-come, first-served basis
Location: American Airlines Hangar #2,
DFW International Airport
Time: 9:30 am - Noon - High School Students
11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. - Middle School Students
9:30 a.m. - Noon OR 11 a.m. - 1:30 --- Elementary Students
The groups will overlap to provide us the opportunity to address all our attendees and make acknowledgments. Elementary students will arrive during both designated timeframes. Please note that food service will not be available. The students must bring a sack lunch with them. We do not provide transportation to this event.
Cost: FREE
Who: Elementary, Junior/Middle School, High School Students (including homeschoolers!)
What to Bring: Sack Lunch
To Reserve: Download their reservation form at
Fax the form to 972-973-5556, Attn: Barbara Pack
For More Information: 972-973-5557 or bpack@dfwairport.com
http://www.dfwexpo2007.com
Details:
Numerous static aircraft, vehicles, displays, and information booths representing various aspects of the aviation and transportation community will provide the backdrop for this dynamic educational experience.
Students will have the opportunity to learn about the work environment of organizations such as DFW International Airport, American Airlines, Federal Aviation Administration, Civil Air Patrol, Tarrant County College, the U.S. Department of Transportation, Texas Air National Guard and many, many more. We will also have a live aerobatic aircraft performance that is amazing and exciting to watch!!
Give-aways and door prizes for students AND teachers!
View Newsletter Headers
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NOVEMBER
REGISTER TODAY FOR ROCKWALL LOCAL HOME SCHOOL SPELLING BEE
Rockwall Local Spelling Bee (Sponsored by Christian Family HEAD/HEAR)
Date Held: January 7, 2008
Time: 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Location: Rockwall ISD Administration Gymnasium
To Register: Send Registration Fee to Amy Brubaker
601 Wilderness
Royce City, TX 75189
For More Information: Contact Amy at abhomeschool@yahoo.com
or Shari Nelson at gregnshari@verizon.net
Registration: 1st-3rd grade $2 Spelling lists www.christianfamilyhead.org
Forms and Notebooks
4th-8th grade $5 Spell It! Books are available immediately
upon registration
**There is now a family maximum registration fee of $12 **
Please include the following information with your registration payment:
Student’s Name Student Grade (Competing In)
Parents’ Names Full Address Email Home/Cell Phone
View Newsletter Headers
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NOVEMBER 30
STARGAZER PAUL ASTRONOMY EVENT AT FOSSIL RIM
Time: 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Where: Activities Barn at Wolf Ridge Camp
Who: Homeschoolers and Others
Cost: $10 per person
To RSVP: Email Ms. Tessa at homeschool@fossilrim.org
Schedule:
7:00 - 7:30: “What’s Out There to See” Power Point Program
Ever wone what kinds of things stargazers look at other than stars? Using slide photos, Stargazer Paual Derrick will give an overview of the kinds of things that are “out there” for our viewing pleasure and wonderment.
7:30 - 8:15: Sky Tour
A laser pointer tour identifying major constellations and bright stars!
8:15 - 9:00: Telescope Viewing
Using Mr. Derrick’s 8-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope, and one of Fossil Rim’s Star Hoppers!)
About the Instructor: Mr. Derrick is an amateur astronomer who has lived in Waco, TX, since 1966. Born in Houston, he grew up in nearby Bayview, on the banks of Galveston Bay - a few miles from the site which became NASA’s Johnson Space Center. As a teenager in the 1950s, the dark skies over Galveston Bay, and the inspiration of an 81-year-old stargazer, Margaret Willits, sparked his early interest in astronomy. His love for the stars was rekindled in the mid-1980s in anticipation of the return of Halley’s Comet. He is the author of the “Stargazer” column published in the Waco Tribune-Herald and other Teas newspapers. Originated in January 1990, “Stargazer” appears every other week. He is the author of (A Beginner’s Guide to) Learning the Night Sky (2003) and Stargazer’s Life List (2004).
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NOVEMBER
ANCIENT TREASURES OF THE HOLY LAND EXHIBIT
AT SHOPS OF WILLOW BEND IN PLANO
Ancient Treasures is a celebration of God’s hand throughout history as told through the Bible focusing on the time period from Abraham to Jesus. The tour through the archaeological exhibit is enhanced by highly thematic sets, narration conveying the historical significance of the period and artifacts, and a musical dramatic score by national recording artist Don Moen in digital surround sound. At the end of the exhibit is a 7 minute 3D film shot in Israel to give the guest a sense of what it would be like to visit Israel.
Set aside at least an hour and a half to tour the exhibit. The exhibit consists of 340 rare artifacts and is on loan, courtesy of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem’s Institute of Archaeology.
Location: Shops at Willow Bend
6121 West Park Boulevard
Plano, TX
On the 2nd floor next to Dillard’s Department Store.
Hours: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday
Noon to 6 p.m. Sunday
Highlights Included in the Exhibit:
* Artifacts from Masada, Qumran, the City of David and Jerusalem
* The Bone Box of Simon the Cyrene (the man who carried the cross for Jesus)
* Figurines and seals covering 2,500 years of biblical history
* Coins, weaponry, bricks, even items used for storage or for sending messages.
Ticket Price for Home School Groups:
$6 per student (groups of 10 or more students)
1 Free adult with every 10 students
The exhibit requires that 1 adult attends with each group of 10 students
Regular Ticket Price
Adults: $14.95
Child: $6.95
College Student: $12.95
Senior 55+: 12.95
Applicable taxes apply
To Order Group or Individual Tickets: Call 972-202-8347 or 866-698-5333
or visit them online (see below)
For More Information or To Order Tickets Online: www.holyland1.com
Other Details: Ancient Treasures of the Holy Land is the “can’t miss” event of the year. This groundbreaking exhibit features the largest most breathtaking, collection of Holy Land antiquities to ever come to the United States. This multi-media exhibit combines the awe of over 340 priceless artifacts, some dating back to the time of Abraham, original video footage shot throughout the Holy Land, and the power of modern multimedia technology presentation, propelling visitors on a landmark walk through 2,500 years of Biblical history that they will never forget. This event will also feature the Ossuary (bone box) of Alexander, son of Simon the Cyrene, the man who carried the cross for Jesus.
Ancient Treasures of the Holy Land uses highly thematic sets along with digital surround sound, the first 3D video shot in Israel, photomurals, state of the art lighting and narration combined with a musical score produced by national recording artist Don Moen to bring the story of these priceless treasures to life, and set the stage for this journey of a lifetime. Visitors can expect to spend from 90 minutes to three hours moving through the exhibit at their own pace.
Endorsed by Israel’s Minister of Tourism, Ancient Treasures of the Holy Land was developed as a result of collaboration among The Institute of Archeology of Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Programa I Design Studio, and the world’s top experts in Israeli archeology history and themed storytelling; putting together the most dynamic and accurate presentation of the Bible in history.
Don’t miss shopping in our 5,000 sq ft first century themed bazaar with handcrafted gifts made in Israel.
This is a once in a lifetime event to see the reality of the Bible in a way few people ever will. Don't miss this life impacting experience!
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS
LIBRARY PROGRAMS
CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS
HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
BOOK SALES
PERFORMING ARTS
ART MUSEUMS
IMAX THEATERS
HISTORICAL PROGRAMS
MISCELLANEOUS EVENTS/ACTIVITIES
HOME SCHOOL SPORTS/PE PROGRAMS
SUPPORT GROUPS
COLLEGE PREP
OTHER NOVEMBER EVENTS BY DATE
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FEATURED ARTICLE
Ten Terrific Tips for a High SAT Score (part 1 of 2)
By Jean Burk
Waiting to take your first SAT in your senior year is a mistake! But sadly, many students start thinking about this important test in their last year of high school. Preparation is the key to conquering this right-of-passage for college applicants, and it needs to be treated with respect. Delaying the inevitable can add enormous stress to an already taxed final year-full of college searches, career decisions, and graduation. More than that, a good SAT score can have several great benefits, so it should not be put off or trivialized, but made a priority long before a student becomes a senior.
Here are ten tips that can help students prepare for the SAT:
1. Make the SAT a priority.
The right score not only means college entrance, but also could result in substantial scholarships to college. At many universities, each department offers several full scholarships based on students’ abilities and their SAT scores. Many of these scholarships start with a score of around 1400 (math and verbal). So, make a game plan on how much time you will spend daily or weekly working on practice SAT questions and then stick to it.
2. Learn the hidden patterns and tricks that the College Board likes to use on their tests.
The SAT has profiles of recurring patterns and hidden strategies in its problems that can be decoded. Students who learn these secrets will usually score higher on their SAT tests. Even smart students can do poorly on this test because they don’t understand how to take it.
3. Practice only with the SAT prep books that contain real SAT problems.
The prep books that will give students the best SAT results are those books created by the test makers themselves-The College Board. Many of the prep books found in local bookstores are filled with made-up problems that can be irrelevant to the actual test. If students have discovered the patterns of the real SAT, then working other prep book problems may be fruitless.
4. Start working on the SAT test in your ninth grade year.
Starting early will familiarize you with the test and give you time for lots of practice. The later you wait, the less time to improve. Most colleges drop a student’s lowest score and keep the highest one. By getting a jump start on the SAT, this will also help prepare for the PSAT/NMSQT test. As of March 2005, the two tests are now very similar.
5. Schedule two to three real SAT tests in a row.
Since you should be practicing tests at home before the real test, it makes sense to schedule more than one real test in a row instead of spreading them out over several months. This is easily done since the SAT is offered seven times a year, starting in October and ending in June. Scores can be viewed on The College Board web site in about two weeks following the test.
(Look for Part 2 of this article in the Mid-November issue of our newsletter)
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.
Back to the top
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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
November Themes:
6 - Too Many Apples
13 - Do You Know the Muffin Man
20 - Thanksgiving Fun
27 - Noises and Sounds
WEDNESDAYS IN NOVEMBER & DECEMBER--- Free Spanish Language Classes
Time: 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Board Room
It’s never too late to learn a new language! Bedford Public Library is pleased to offer FREE Spanish language classes. Ms. Bianca Zayas will introduce the basics of Spanish on Wednesday mornings beginning October 10. Spanish Basics will be offered for 6 weeks before we begin a new class.
No Registration Required
For More Information: Contact Jeanne Green at 817-952-2370
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER --- Stop Hunger @ the Library
Bring non-perishable donations to the library or Bedford Fire Station during the months of November and December during their canned food drive, benefiting the Tarrant Area Food Bank.
Drop Off Locations:
Bedford Public Library
1805 L. Don Dodson Drive
Bedford, TX 76021
817-952-2342
Fire Station 1
1816 Bedford Road
Bedford, TX 76021
817-952-2500
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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)
NOVEMBER 1 - Literature Showcase
Time: 7 p.m.
Come share your favorite Holliday books.... We all need some new titles and authors to read over the holidays!
For More Information: 817-788-7301
NOVEMBER 13 --- Listener’s Choice Story Time
Time: 7 p.m.
Ages: All
Celebrate Children’s Book Week by listening to stories, old and new! Let the Youth Services staff know your favorite picture books and authors. Those mentioned most will be read at this special story time.
NOVEMBER 26 --- Gallery Tree Decorations
Time: 4 - 5 p.m.
Create decorations for the tree in the Historical Gallery. All supplies will be provided. Each child who makes a decoration will receive an invitation to Patron Appreciation on December 6th for a special group recognition by the Mayor.
ON EXHIBIT:
Gallery Wall: Paintings by Doris Mobley
Foyer Display: Nutcrackers from Jennifer Ryan
Historical Gallery: Exhibit from the Amon Carter Museum
To put your collection on exhibit at the Hurst Library: Contact the Information Specialist to fill out a form with your contact information and a description of your collection. To be considered, personal collections must meet the Library display criteria.
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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
NOVEMBER 8 --- Getting to Know Your Library
Grades: K-3rd
Time: 10 a.m.
Dulaney Room
Participate in a special program to learn more about the library and the Children’s Department.
Home Educators Alliance for Resources and Training of Texas, Inc.
NOVEMBER 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
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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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~~November
Highlights~~
NOVEMBER
HOME SCHOOL PE CLASSES AVAILABLE AT VELOCITY SPORTS
HIGHLAND PARK AND SOUTHLAKE LOCATIONS
We are very excited to announce that the Velocity Sports Performance locations in Highland Park and Southlake have partnered with HEART of Texas to offer special discounts to homeschoolers!
The PE programs at Velocity Sports are taught by trained, degreed coaches who have coached college, professional, and Olympic level athletes.
Classes are one hour long, and focus on speed enhancement, strength, power, agility, core development, flexibility, and balance. Participants can expect increased muscle tone, a higher vertical jump, better running form, reduced likelihood of injury, increased confidence and increased endurance.
Their 16,300 square foot indoor facility is climate-controlled and features turf, track, hard court, and weight areas, as well as a viewing area for parents/guests.
Please Note: Each Velocity Sports location is independently owned and operated, and offer different pricing and discount rates for their classes. Please contact the location directly for more information.
For the Highland Park Location:
Call Mark Cox at 214-739-1122
www.velocitysp.com/highlandpark
For the Southlake Location:
Call 817-416-0606
www.velocitysp.com/southlake
View Newsletter Headers
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NOVEMBER 5
TIM AND LYNDSAY LAMBERT OF THSC TO SPEAK IN CANTON
Location: Lakeside Baptist Church
1291 Old Kaufman Road
Time: 7 p.m.
For Directions: http://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=1&view=page&name=js&ver=18zefn591xl4u
Childcare Available: Childcare will be provided for children 4 and under for $2 per child. Reservations must be made by November 1. Children 5 and up will have a Wheel Day in the parking lot. Bring a wheel item (skates, bikes, rollerblades, skateboard, etc.) In the event of rain, bring board games for gym play. No cost or reservations for the Wheel Day are required.
To RSVP: pathofficers@yahoo.com for information and reservations.
View Newsletter Headers
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NOVEMBER 6
TIM AND LYNDSAY LAMBERT OF THSC TO SPEAK IN DENTON
Location: Singing Oaks Church of Christ
101 Cardinal Drive
Denton, TX
Time: 6:30 p.m. - 8:45 p.m.
Childcare Not Provided
To RSVP: Contact Rosanne LeRoy at 972-317-5032
rosanneleroy@tx.rr.com
View Newsletter Headers
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NOVEMBER 9
TEENA GOBLE SPEAKING AT CROSS TIMBERS CHURCH IN KELLER
Time: 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Location: Cross Timbers Church, Keller
2525 Florence
Roanoke
Details: Teena Goble is going to be presenting How To Win the Heart of Your Child
For Online Map: http://keller.crosstimberschurch.org/?p=8161
Child Care: $5 per family. Child care is available by registration to Shannon Martin at smartin@crosstimberschurch.org
Spouses are welcome and encouraged to attend. Please feel free to forward this to anyone you think would enjoy this presentation!
If you would like to hear Teena's presentation, please e-mail Teri Jones, terij@crosstimberschurch.org, by Tuesday, Nov. 6 to register for child care.
View Newsletter Headers
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NOVEMBER 16
REGISTRATION DEADLINE FOR
NORTH TEXAS 4TH ANNUAL CAREER EXPO AT DFW AIRPORT FOR STUDENTS
DFW International Airport, the Federal Aviation Administration and American Airlines are pleased to invite your home school or support group to attend North Texas’ Fourth Annual Career Expo at DFW Airport. Representatives from industry, government, and academia have joined forces to introduce our community youth and educators to a multitude of career paths offered by the aviation and transportation industry.
DECEMBER 14
Reservations Accepted through NOVEMBER 16, on a first-come, first-served basis
Location: American Airlines Hangar #2,
DFW International Airport
Time: 9:30 am - Noon - High School Students
11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. - Middle School Students
9:30 a.m. - Noon OR 11 a.m. - 1:30 --- Elementary Students
The groups will overlap to provide us the opportunity to address all our attendees and make acknowledgments. Elementary students will arrive during both designated timeframes. Please note that food service will not be available. The students must bring a sack lunch with them. We do not provide transportation to this event.
Cost: FREE
Who: Elementary, Junior/Middle School, High School Students (including homeschoolers!)
What to Bring: Sack Lunch
To Reserve: Download their reservation form at
Fax the form to 972-973-5556, Attn: Barbara Pack
For More Information: 972-973-5557 or bpack@dfwairport.com
http://www.dfwexpo2007.com
Details:
Numerous static aircraft, vehicles, displays, and information booths representing various aspects of the aviation and transportation community will provide the backdrop for this dynamic educational experience.
Students will have the opportunity to learn about the work environment of organizations such as DFW International Airport, American Airlines, Federal Aviation Administration, Civil Air Patrol, Tarrant County College, the U.S. Department of Transportation, Texas Air National Guard and many, many more. We will also have a live aerobatic aircraft performance that is amazing and exciting to watch!!
Give-aways and door prizes for students AND teachers!
View Newsletter Headers
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NOVEMBER
REGISTER TODAY FOR ROCKWALL LOCAL HOME SCHOOL SPELLING BEE
Rockwall Local Spelling Bee (Sponsored by Christian Family HEAD/HEAR)
Date Held: January 7, 2008
Time: 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Location: Rockwall ISD Administration Gymnasium
To Register: Send Registration Fee to Amy Brubaker
601 Wilderness
Royce City, TX 75189
For More Information: Contact Amy at abhomeschool@yahoo.com
or Shari Nelson at gregnshari@verizon.net
Registration: 1st-3rd grade $2 Spelling lists www.christianfamilyhead.org
Forms and Notebooks
4th-8th grade $5 Spell It! Books are available immediately
upon registration
**There is now a family maximum registration fee of $12 **
Please include the following information with your registration payment:
Student’s Name Student Grade (Competing In)
Parents’ Names Full Address Email Home/Cell Phone
View Newsletter Headers
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NOVEMBER 30
STARGAZER PAUL ASTRONOMY EVENT AT FOSSIL RIM
Time: 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Where: Activities Barn at Wolf Ridge Camp
Who: Homeschoolers and Others
Cost: $10 per person
To RSVP: Email Ms. Tessa at homeschool@fossilrim.org
Schedule:
7:00 - 7:30: “What’s Out There to See” Power Point Program
Ever wone what kinds of things stargazers look at other than stars? Using slide photos, Stargazer Paual Derrick will give an overview of the kinds of things that are “out there” for our viewing pleasure and wonderment.
7:30 - 8:15: Sky Tour
A laser pointer tour identifying major constellations and bright stars!
8:15 - 9:00: Telescope Viewing
Using Mr. Derrick’s 8-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope, and one of Fossil Rim’s Star Hoppers!)
About the Instructor: Mr. Derrick is an amateur astronomer who has lived in Waco, TX, since 1966. Born in Houston, he grew up in nearby Bayview, on the banks of Galveston Bay - a few miles from the site which became NASA’s Johnson Space Center. As a teenager in the 1950s, the dark skies over Galveston Bay, and the inspiration of an 81-year-old stargazer, Margaret Willits, sparked his early interest in astronomy. His love for the stars was rekindled in the mid-1980s in anticipation of the return of Halley’s Comet. He is the author of the “Stargazer” column published in the Waco Tribune-Herald and other Teas newspapers. Originated in January 1990, “Stargazer” appears every other week. He is the author of (A Beginner’s Guide to) Learning the Night Sky (2003) and Stargazer’s Life List (2004).
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NOVEMBER
ANCIENT TREASURES OF THE HOLY LAND EXHIBIT
AT SHOPS OF WILLOW BEND IN PLANO
Ancient Treasures is a celebration of God’s hand throughout history as told through the Bible focusing on the time period from Abraham to Jesus. The tour through the archaeological exhibit is enhanced by highly thematic sets, narration conveying the historical significance of the period and artifacts, and a musical dramatic score by national recording artist Don Moen in digital surround sound. At the end of the exhibit is a 7 minute 3D film shot in Israel to give the guest a sense of what it would be like to visit Israel.
Set aside at least an hour and a half to tour the exhibit. The exhibit consists of 340 rare artifacts and is on loan, courtesy of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem’s Institute of Archaeology.
Location: Shops at Willow Bend
6121 West Park Boulevard
Plano, TX
On the 2nd floor next to Dillard’s Department Store.
Hours: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday
Noon to 6 p.m. Sunday
Highlights Included in the Exhibit:
* Artifacts from Masada, Qumran, the City of David and Jerusalem
* The Bone Box of Simon the Cyrene (the man who carried the cross for Jesus)
* Figurines and seals covering 2,500 years of biblical history
* Coins, weaponry, bricks, even items used for storage or for sending messages.
Ticket Price for Home School Groups:
$6 per student (groups of 10 or more students)
1 Free adult with every 10 students
The exhibit requires that 1 adult attends with each group of 10 students
Regular Ticket Price
Adults: $14.95
Child: $6.95
College Student: $12.95
Senior 55+: 12.95
Applicable taxes apply
To Order Group or Individual Tickets: Call 972-202-8347 or 866-698-5333
or visit them online (see below)
For More Information or To Order Tickets Online: www.holyland1.com
Other Details: Ancient Treasures of the Holy Land is the “can’t miss” event of the year. This groundbreaking exhibit features the largest most breathtaking, collection of Holy Land antiquities to ever come to the United States. This multi-media exhibit combines the awe of over 340 priceless artifacts, some dating back to the time of Abraham, original video footage shot throughout the Holy Land, and the power of modern multimedia technology presentation, propelling visitors on a landmark walk through 2,500 years of Biblical history that they will never forget. This event will also feature the Ossuary (bone box) of Alexander, son of Simon the Cyrene, the man who carried the cross for Jesus.
Ancient Treasures of the Holy Land uses highly thematic sets along with digital surround sound, the first 3D video shot in Israel, photomurals, state of the art lighting and narration combined with a musical score produced by national recording artist Don Moen to bring the story of these priceless treasures to life, and set the stage for this journey of a lifetime. Visitors can expect to spend from 90 minutes to three hours moving through the exhibit at their own pace.
Endorsed by Israel’s Minister of Tourism, Ancient Treasures of the Holy Land was developed as a result of collaboration among The Institute of Archeology of Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Programa I Design Studio, and the world’s top experts in Israeli archeology history and themed storytelling; putting together the most dynamic and accurate presentation of the Bible in history.
Don’t miss shopping in our 5,000 sq ft first century themed bazaar with handcrafted gifts made in Israel.
This is a once in a lifetime event to see the reality of the Bible in a way few people ever will. Don't miss this life impacting experience!
(Click on the links
below)
FEATURED
ARTICLE
Ten Terrific Tips for a
High SAT Score (Part 1 of 2) --- Article by
Jean Burk, SAT/PSAT Prep Specialist
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
LIBRARY PROGRAMS
- Library Programs at
North Texas Libraries
--- Bedford, Hurst,
McKinney, Tyler --- November
Other Libraries are
Welcome to Include Their Events -
contact info@heartoftex.org
These will eventually be posted on our website.
Bedford Public Library
Hurst Public Library
McKinney Memorial Public Library
Tyler Public Library
CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS
- BEST Robotics 2007 Preview: 2021 a Robot Odyssey --- Texas Best --- November 30-December 1
- Texas State Fish-Art Contests --- Entries Due March 31, 2008
- National Engineers Week --- Future City Competition
HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
- Homeschoolers East Co-Op Classes --- East Dallas
- Legacy Home School Enrichment Program at First Baptist in Euless --- Registration Open
BOOK SALES
- Library Used Book Sales in North Texas --- November
Wichita Falls - November
3
Denton - November 10
Little Elm - November
10
NATURE CENTERS &
OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
- Dallas Arboretum - Dallas --- November
- Day Camps at Camp Tonkawa --- November
- Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge Programs --- November
- Heritage Farmstead Museum --- Plano --- November
- Sharkarosa Open-to-the-Public Days --- November
- Texas Discovery Gardens --- November
- Texas Parks and Wildlife Programs--- State Parks in North Texas --- November
PERFORMING ARTS
- Performances at Casa
Manana Children’s
Playhouse --- November
Charlotte’s Web --- October 26 - November 11
Frosty the Snowman --- November 23 - December 23
- Performances at
CATS --- Arlington ---
November
Charlotte’s Web - November 2 - 11
- Theater Performances at
Artisan Center Theater
- Hurst - November
It’s a Wonderful Life (Live Radio Play) - Through November 10
Squirrels Just Wanna Have Fun --- Through November 9
- Performances at Bass
Performance Hall - Fort Worth -
November
Man of La Mancha --- November 6-11
A Christmas Carol ---- December 21-29
- Dallas Children’s
Theater --- Dallas ---
November
A Little House Christmas --- Nov 30-Dec 16
The Nutcracker --- Nov 24-Dec 23
- Plano Children’s
Theater --- Plano ---
November
Sound of Music (Musical) --- Nov 2-17
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs --- Nov 30-Dec 15
- Texas Ballet Theater
Performances --- October
The Sleeping Beauty - October 20 - 22
The Nutcracker --- November 30-December 16
ART MUSEUMS
- Amon Carter Museum Exhibits - November
- Dallas Museum of Art Exhibit --- November
- Kimball Art Museum Exhibit --- Picturing the Bible --- Coming November 18
IMAX THEATERS
- Shows at the Dallas Imax Theatre -- Museum of Science and Nature - November
HISTORICAL PROGRAMS
- Programs at Log Cabin Village --- Fort Worth --- November
MISCELLANEOUS EVENTS/ACTIVITIES
- Steinway Construction Tour --- Fort Worth, Dallas, Plano --- Through Mid-November
HOME SCHOOL SPORTS/PE PROGRAMS
- Maritime Merry Time Tuesdays (Open Homeschool Swim) --- The Colony Aquatic Park --- Tuesdays Through December 18
- Dallas Thunder Homeschool Basketball Organization --- Registration Open
- Home School Athletic Association --- Baseball and Basketball Players Needed
- Junior High Girls Basketball Players Needed --- THESA Riders --- ASAP
- Home School PE Classes --- Velocity Sports in Highland Park
- Home School PE Classes --- Velocity Sports in Southlake
- Home School Fencing Classes --- Fencing Institute of Texas --- Farmers Branch
SUPPORT GROUPS
- Smoothing the Way Meetings in North Texas --- November
Arlington - November
27
Athens/Tyler Area -
November 20
Denton - November 1
North Richland Hills -
November 5
Plano - November 27
- Keller 4H Club Meetings-- Keller --- November
COLLEGE PREP
OTHER NOVEMBER EVENTS BY DATE
- 8-Week SAT Prep Course at Creative Arts in Action ---- Watauga
- Library Friends Round-Up --- Colleyville --- November 3
- Teena Goble Speaking: “How to Win the Heart of Your Child” --- Keller/Roanoke ---- November 9
- Civil War on the Home Front --- Dallas Heritage Village - November 10
- Judges Needed for NCFCA Practice Speech and Debate Tournament --- Watauga --- November 17
- Homestead Craft and Children’s Fair --- Elm Mott --- November 23-25
- “Stargazer Paul” Astronomy Event at Fossil Rim --- November 30
- Christian Cottage Prep Science Fair --- Fort Worth --- Registration Open
- Candlelight at Dallas Heritage Village --- December 8 & 9
- North Texas 4th Annual Career Expo at DFW Airport --- Elementary, Middle, and High School Students --- December 14
- The Amazing Chocolate Tree National Exhibit --- Dallas Arboretum ---- Through January 6
- Home School Open House at Velocity Sports/Highland Park --- Highland Park --- January 16
- 2008 Texas Home School Basketball Championships ---- Carrollton, TX --- Jan 31- Feb 2
- 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
Ten Terrific Tips for a High SAT Score (part 1 of 2)
By Jean Burk
Waiting to take your first SAT in your senior year is a mistake! But sadly, many students start thinking about this important test in their last year of high school. Preparation is the key to conquering this right-of-passage for college applicants, and it needs to be treated with respect. Delaying the inevitable can add enormous stress to an already taxed final year-full of college searches, career decisions, and graduation. More than that, a good SAT score can have several great benefits, so it should not be put off or trivialized, but made a priority long before a student becomes a senior.
Here are ten tips that can help students prepare for the SAT:
1. Make the SAT a priority.
The right score not only means college entrance, but also could result in substantial scholarships to college. At many universities, each department offers several full scholarships based on students’ abilities and their SAT scores. Many of these scholarships start with a score of around 1400 (math and verbal). So, make a game plan on how much time you will spend daily or weekly working on practice SAT questions and then stick to it.
2. Learn the hidden patterns and tricks that the College Board likes to use on their tests.
The SAT has profiles of recurring patterns and hidden strategies in its problems that can be decoded. Students who learn these secrets will usually score higher on their SAT tests. Even smart students can do poorly on this test because they don’t understand how to take it.
3. Practice only with the SAT prep books that contain real SAT problems.
The prep books that will give students the best SAT results are those books created by the test makers themselves-The College Board. Many of the prep books found in local bookstores are filled with made-up problems that can be irrelevant to the actual test. If students have discovered the patterns of the real SAT, then working other prep book problems may be fruitless.
4. Start working on the SAT test in your ninth grade year.
Starting early will familiarize you with the test and give you time for lots of practice. The later you wait, the less time to improve. Most colleges drop a student’s lowest score and keep the highest one. By getting a jump start on the SAT, this will also help prepare for the PSAT/NMSQT test. As of March 2005, the two tests are now very similar.
5. Schedule two to three real SAT tests in a row.
Since you should be practicing tests at home before the real test, it makes sense to schedule more than one real test in a row instead of spreading them out over several months. This is easily done since the SAT is offered seven times a year, starting in October and ending in June. Scores can be viewed on The College Board web site in about two weeks following the test.
(Look for Part 2 of this article in the Mid-November issue of our newsletter)
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.
Back to the top
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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
November Themes:
6 - Too Many Apples
13 - Do You Know the Muffin Man
20 - Thanksgiving Fun
27 - Noises and Sounds
WEDNESDAYS IN NOVEMBER & DECEMBER--- Free Spanish Language Classes
Time: 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Board Room
It’s never too late to learn a new language! Bedford Public Library is pleased to offer FREE Spanish language classes. Ms. Bianca Zayas will introduce the basics of Spanish on Wednesday mornings beginning October 10. Spanish Basics will be offered for 6 weeks before we begin a new class.
No Registration Required
For More Information: Contact Jeanne Green at 817-952-2370
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER --- Stop Hunger @ the Library
Bring non-perishable donations to the library or Bedford Fire Station during the months of November and December during their canned food drive, benefiting the Tarrant Area Food Bank.
Drop Off Locations:
Bedford Public Library
1805 L. Don Dodson Drive
Bedford, TX 76021
817-952-2342
Fire Station 1
1816 Bedford Road
Bedford, TX 76021
817-952-2500
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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)
NOVEMBER 1 - Literature Showcase
Time: 7 p.m.
Come share your favorite Holliday books.... We all need some new titles and authors to read over the holidays!
For More Information: 817-788-7301
NOVEMBER 13 --- Listener’s Choice Story Time
Time: 7 p.m.
Ages: All
Celebrate Children’s Book Week by listening to stories, old and new! Let the Youth Services staff know your favorite picture books and authors. Those mentioned most will be read at this special story time.
NOVEMBER 26 --- Gallery Tree Decorations
Time: 4 - 5 p.m.
Create decorations for the tree in the Historical Gallery. All supplies will be provided. Each child who makes a decoration will receive an invitation to Patron Appreciation on December 6th for a special group recognition by the Mayor.
ON EXHIBIT:
Gallery Wall: Paintings by Doris Mobley
Foyer Display: Nutcrackers from Jennifer Ryan
Historical Gallery: Exhibit from the Amon Carter Museum
To put your collection on exhibit at the Hurst Library: Contact the Information Specialist to fill out a form with your contact information and a description of your collection. To be considered, personal collections must meet the Library display criteria.
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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
NOVEMBER 8 --- Getting to Know Your Library
Grades: K-3rd
Time: 10 a.m.
Dulaney Room
Participate in a special program to learn more about the library and the Children’s Department.