April 2008
HEART OF TEXAS
Home Educators Alliance for Resources and Training of Texas, Inc.
APRIL 2008 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 newsletter 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.
We also have a “featured articles” section. We hope that you will find the articles that we will include to be informative, encouraging, and full of wisdom. If you or anyone in your group would like to submit articles, or have suggestions for future article topics, please contact us at info@heartoftex.org. We would love to hear from you!
Thanks so much!
www.HEARTofTex.org
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Home Educators Alliance for Resources and Training of Texas, Inc., (HEART of Texas) is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation dedicated to serving the home schooling support groups, leaders and families in our regional service area. Our mission is to provide leadership, training, resources and support within the home school community through communications, networking activities, and events directed at home school support groups, leaders, 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.
-----------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------
~~ April Highlights~~
APRIL 3 & 8
BOY SCOUTS TO HOST TWO DAY HOMESCHOOL EVENT
AT LOCATIONS ACROSS NORTH TEXAS
The Longhorn Council of the Boy Scouts of America, which covers 23 counties in North Texas, is hosting two-day open houses on April 3 and 8th at 3:00 p.m. for home school families interested in scouting. The event will take place in 18 locations throughout the North Texas area.
Locations: Families can visit one of 18 locations to learn more about the Boy Scouts and the different scouting options available. Families will be able to ask questions, meet local scouts, and register for the type of scouting that best suits their needs.
For Listing of Locations: Click Here
Or visit: www.heartoftex.org and click the tab labeled “Scouts.”
View Newsletter Headers
-----------------------------------------------------------
APRIL 8
BOYS HIGH SCHOOL SOCCER
PARENT/PLAYER INFORMATION MEETING
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Central Market
190 & Coit (Northeast Corner)
Enter at the stairs in front of the Café entrance
Community Room is reserved for HSAA!
Meeting will include:
Meeting the coach(s)
Uniform selection
Practice days & times
Eligibility requirements
Schedule
Cost
& other HSAA guidelines
For More Information about HSAA: www.hsaa.org
View Newsletter Headers
-----------------------------------------------------------
APRIL 8
ACADEMIC ACCOMMODATIONS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
Time: 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Location: Collin College Spring Creek Campus Conference Center 2800 E. Spring Creek Parkway, Plano
To Register: destinationcollege@cccd.edu or 972-377-1772
This free workshop will provide students, parents, and educators with information to help their students’ successfully transition into the college setting, whether it be a university or a community college. Learn more about the required current documentation guidelines and the key differences between secondary 504 modification and post-secondary accommodations. Find out about the resources and support programs that are available to students with special needs. Come early - exhibits open at 6:00 PM!
View Newsletter Headers
-----------------------------------------------------------
APRIL 11
THSC AWARDS BANQUET APRIL 11
APRIL 11 - THSC 13th Annual Awards Banquet
Keynote Speaker: Senator Dan Patrick
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Location: Omni Houston Hotel
Four Riverway, Houston, Texas
To Register: events@thsc.org or 806-744-4441
Or download registration form at http://www.thsc.org/banquet/default.asp
Attire: Dressy
Tickets: Individual tickets may be obtained while space is available for a suggested donation of $45 per ticket. Simply complete and remit the registration form.
Sponsorships:
Sponsors of banquet tables, which include seating for ten, will receive
special recognition on the banquet program.
Bronze ($500 donation)
Silver ($1000 donation) - two VIP reception tickets
Gold ($2500 donation) - four VIP reception tickets
Diamond ($5000 donation) - six VIP reception tickets
Platinum ($10,000) - ten VIP reception tickets
Details: Come for an elegant dinner and an evening honoring the achievements of home schoolers and those who have supported home schooling in Texas. Join radio talk show host, author, and senator, Dan Patrick, THSC President Tim Lambert , top Good Citizenship award winners, and many other home school notables. In conjunction with the dinner, there will be a silent auction. Check the link below for the most current list of auction items.
For More Information and Details, Including Hotel Accommodations: http://www.thsc.org/banquet/default.asp
View Newsletter Headers
-----------------------------------------------------------
APRIL 11
HOME SCHOOL ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION VOLLEYBALL TRYOUTS
FOR HIGH SCHOOL AND MIDDLE SCHOOL
The Home School Athletic Association is a Christian-based organization providing athletics for
homeschoolers through volunteer home school parent. They provide various programs including football, baseball, volleyball, soccer, and basketball for high school and middle school home schoolers.
APRIL 4 (Warm Up)
Time: 12 p.m. - 2 p.m. (high school)
2 p.m. - 4 p.m. (middle school)
APRIL 11 (Official Try-Out)
Time: 12 p.m. - 2 p.m. (high school)
2 p.m. - 4 p.m. (middle school)
Location: Believers Chapel
6420 Churchill Way
Dallas, TX 75230
To Participate:
You must bring a Tryout Form and Medical Release Form with you to tryouts.
Download both forms at: http://www.hsaa.org/VB_Page.htm
Cost: $15 Per Player Tryout Fee
Contact:
High Schoolers contact Deanna Morales 972-661-2479 or dhmorales@sbcglobal.net
Middle Schoolers contact Susan Bryant at 972-754-1553 or cs.bryant@verizon.net
View Newsletter Headers
-----------------------------------------------------------
APRIL 14 & 24
HOMESCHOOL PROGRAMS AT MCKINNEY MEMORIAL PUBLIC LIBRARY
APRIL 24 --- Getting to Know Your Library
Please choose one date to attend.
Grades: K-3rd
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
Other Programs for Home Schoolers:
APRIL 14 --- Research Gathering Skills
Please choose one date to attend.
Grades: 5th - 8th
Time: 3:15 p.m.
Learn basic research skills and become familiar with the library’s many
resources.
Conference Room (upstairs)
Registration Required
Other Home School Programs:
APRIL 29 - Using the Internet
Please choose one date to attend.
Grades: 6th and up
Time: 3:15 p.m.
Conference Room (upstairs)
Learn how to search the internet and how to evaluate internet sites to get reliable and quality information.
Registration Required
Location: 101 E. Hunt Street
McKinney, TX 75069
972-547-READ
To Register or For More Information: Wendy Turner - wturner@mckinneytexas.org
View Newsletter Headers
-----------------------------------------------------------
APRIL 12
DFW METROPLEX US SERVICE ACADEMIES DAY & FORUM
Time: 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Location: Tarrant County College Northeast, Student Center
828 Harwood Road
Hurst, TX 76054
Cost: FREE and open to the public
Contact: Robin Vaughan, Office of Congressman Michael Burgess at 972-434-9700 or
Robin.vaughan@mail.house.gov
Details: The U.S. Service Academies Forum is jointly sponsored by Congressman Michael Burgess, as well as Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison and Senator John Cornyn, Congressman Sam Johnson, Congressman Joe Barton, Congresswoman Kay Granger, Congressman Kenny Marchant, and Congressman Pete Sessions.
This informational forum provides interested students grades eight through twelve an opportunity to learn more about our nation's service academies, requirements for admission and the selection process.
Representatives from congressional offices and all five academies (U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and U.S. Air Force Academy) as well as cadets and midshipmen will be on hand to talk with North Texas students, parents and educators on a one to one basis about the possibilities associated with attending these premier educational institutions and the sorts of careers they generate. For those interested in additional options, ROTC representatives will also be present to assist students with ROTC scholarship information.
View Newsletter Headers
-----------------------------------------------------------
APRIL 12
REGISTRATION ENDS FOR HOMESCHOOL PROMENADE IN WACO
MAY 3 - A Mid Summer Night’s Dream Homeschool Promenade
Time: 6:30 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.
Location: The Waco Convention Center
100 Washington Avenue in Downtown Waco
As you enter the convention Center, go up the stairs and to your left will be the Brazos Room. There will be signs showing you where to park.
Who: The Homeschool Ball is open to upper high school students and a guest.
The student must be 15 years old before September 1, 2007, and a sophomore, junior or senior. All homeschool graduates are welcome to attend as Alumni.
Registration:
March 27-April 12: $59 student; $35 parent or alumni
(At least one parent or guardian must accompany each student registered)
Details: Experience an evening that will be remembered forever. A night full of fun: a formal dinner, dancing, fellowship with friends, and memories that will last a lifetime. Much of the dancing will be Civil War Era and other historical dancing.
At the event, there will an experienced photographer available. They will have reasonably priced packages available for purchase if you desire. This will be mailed out with your registration information and tickets.
For More Information and Details: Contact Denise Bagby at 254-399-9193
Or audienceof1-4him@sbcglobal.net
View Newsletter Headers
-----------------------------------------------------------
APRIL 19
MEET THE DOOLITTLE TOKYO RAIDERS
Experience LIVING HISTORY!!
A free presentation for the public with members of the famous 1942 surprise raid on Tokyo.
McDermott Library at The University of Texas at Dallas believes it is important to make you aware that this rare opportunity is available on
Time: 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.
Location: UT Dallas Conference Center
Richardson, TX
Who: Everyone is welcome, but the UTD auditorium seats only 500.
Cost: FREE and open to the public. Parking is also free.
Details: Up to nine of the living airmen who flew on the famous and perilous mission led by Jimmy Doolittle over Tokyo on April 18, 1942, will be at UTD's Conference Center for a free, public presentation.
The USAF will have the famous 80 goblets from the Air Force Museum that once were kept at the Air Force Academy.
The program will include:
A history presentation by Doolittle Tokyo Raiders historian C.V. Glines,
A panel discussion and Q&A with the Raiders
Free autograph and book signing
Presentations of Texas flags flown over the Capital in Austin by State Rep. Fred Hill Raiders books for sale by the UTD Bookstore
Special U.S. Postal Service date cancel to commemorate the day.
Mayoral Proclamation from the City of Richardson
The Raiders are in the Dallas area during the week for their 66th Anniversary Reunion.
For More Information: 972-883-2570 or 972-883-4951
View Newsletter Headers
-----------------------------------------------------------
APRIL 22
REENACTMENT OF THE OKLAHOMA LAND RUN
APRIL 22
Location: Heights Park in Richardson
711 W. Arapaho Road
at the corner of Floyd and Arapaho
To Participate: Just show up! Come dressed in "89'er" clothes if you want.
Time: The "gunshot", signifying the start of the race, will go off at 3:05p.m.
Come early to be ready. It takes about 1/2 an hour to run & officially claim land and the rest of the time is spent talking or buying and selling. You can come late as there is usually land to claim & certainly you can still buy & sell!
Volunteers Needed!!! Please volunteer (teen or adult) to help by coming early to pound stakes or man the land office right after the run.
For More Information: Contact Cathy Allen at 972-442- 3006 or 972-742-5215
Or by email at allenadvertising@verizon.net.
For More Details Click Here
View Newsletter Headers
-----------------------------------------------------------
APRIL
CONGRESSIONAL ART COMPETITION
FOR NORTH TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
"An Artistic Discovery" is the annual nationwide Congressional High School Art Competition initiated by Members of the U.S. House of Representatives. Each Congressional District may host its own competition, and since the competition was first launched in 1982, hundreds of thousands of students have participated in over 5000 locally conducted contests.
This spring, several North Texas Congressional offices will hold contests. The winning student from each district will have his or her artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol complex for one year! In addition, the winners and their two guests are invited to the nation's capital in the summer to attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony honoring the winning artists from across the country and opening the 2008 "An Artistic Discovery" exhibition. Thousands of people visiting the nation's capitol, as well as Members of Congress and their staffs, are able to walk through the exhibit daily, viewing artwork from Congressional districts throughout the country-each piece highlighted with the name of the work and student artist.
Interested students and teachers should contact their congressional office ASAP for more information.
View Newsletter Headers
-----------------------------------------------------------
APRIL
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
-----------------------------------------------------------
~~What's Inside This Issue ~~
(Click on the links below)
FEATURED ARTICLES
Book Review: The Summer of Saint Nick Reviewed by Anne Gebhart
Boy Scouts of America, Longhorn Council, to Host a Two-Day, Multi-County Event for Home Schoolers by Jason Beuscher
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
LIBRARY PROGRAMS
Bedford Public Library
Fort Worth Public Library
Hurst Public Library
McKinney Memorial Public Library
Tyler Public Library
CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS
CIVICS/GOOD CITIZENSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE ANNOUNCEMENTS
HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
BOOK SALES & HOME SCHOOL BOOK STORES
Arlington - April 2-6
Tyler - April 3-5
Wichita Falls - April 5
Grand Prairie - April 9-13
Crowley - April 11-12
Dallas - April 11-13
Denton - April 12
White Settlement - April 12
Cedar Park - April 12-14
Sherman - April 19
Haltom City - April 24-26
Burleson - April 25-26
Rockwall - April 25-26
Fort Worth - April 25-27
Southlake - April 25-27
Granbury - April 26-27
NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
PERFORMING ARTS
Little Red Riding Hood --- April 4-20
Disney’s Beauty & the Beast - May 2-11
Smoke on the Mountain (3) Homecoming --- March 14 - April 12
The Foreigner - April 25 - May 17
Standin’ Tall With Dependability (Children’s Theater) --- March 17 - April 11
The Unhappy Princess (Children’s Theater) --- April 28 - May 16
Eat (It’s Not About Food) --- April 11 - May 11
IMAX/OMNI THEATERS
HISTORICAL PROGRAMS
HOME SCHOOL SPORTS/PE PROGRAMS
Volleyball Tryouts March 28 & April 4
Boys High School Soccer Info Meeting April 8
SUPPORT GROUPS
Athens/Tyler Area - April 15
Denton - April 3
North Richland Hills - April 7
Plano - March 25
Sulphur Springs - April 15
COLLEGE PREP
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
OTHER EVENTS BY DATE
-----------------------------------------------------------
FEATURED ARTICLE
Book Review: The Summer of Saint Nick
Reviewed by Anne Gebhart
Home school graduate Josh Burk’s score on the PSAT earned him status as a National Merit Scholar and also earned him a free college education at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. He later scored a 1540 on the SAT, out of a possible 1600.
While at college, Josh began brainstorming ways he could help other students improve their standardized test scores to increase their chances of earning scholarships. He had a “novel” idea: to write a book incorporating SAT-level words throughout the story.
The result was The Summer of Saint Nick, the first book in his VocabCafe series.
The Summer of Saint Nick is a 155-page novella incorporating 300 vocabulary words, all used in context within the framework of the storyline. While readers can usually deduce the meanings of the words as they read, the definitions and pronunciations for each word are printed at the bottom of the page for easy reference and reinforcement. At the end of each chapter is a review page, featuring the words used within that section.
Besides being an excellent tool to enhance vocabulary and language development, pre-teens and teens will find the story engaging. Best of all, the story steers clear of offensive language and unsavory themes.
The story centers on the life of Nick Franklin, a high school student who is an academic success, but an utter failure when it comes to making friends. His studious and courteous nature, coupled with his “geeky” appearance, make him the target of bullies and prevent him from getting the attention of the girl he secretly admires, who also happens to be the most popular girl in school.
Nick’s desire to become a lawyer motivates him to spend much of his free time at an old farmhouse on the outskirts of town, where he reads law books and dreams of becoming a big-shot city lawyer with a Ferrari, fancy clothes, and other material things that only the wealthy can afford.
During summer break, Nick discovers a small fortune and believes that all of his troubles are over. With new clothes, a new Ferrari, a new house, and all the toys money can buy, he is finally on his way to realizing his dreams and getting his true love to fall head over heels for him.
The windfall promises to hold the key to the lifestyle of his dreams and the freedom he desires...until he discovers freedom of another kind and realizes that worldly riches may not be the most important thing in life.
To learn more about The Summer of Saint Nick by Josh Burk, or to purchase your own copy of the book, go to: http://www.vocabcafe.com
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
FEATURED ARTICLE
Boy Scouts to Host a Two-Day, Multi-County Event for Home Schoolers
Written by Jason Beuscher
The Boy Scouts of America loves home-schoolers, and is planning a special event for home school families in April!
The Longhorn Council of the Boy Scouts of America, which covers 23 counties in North Texas, is hosting two-day information meetings on April 3 and 8th at 3:00 p.m. for home school families interested in scouting. The event will take place in 18 locations throughout the North Texas area.
Families can visit one of 18 locations to learn more about the Boy Scouts and the different scouting options available. Families will be able to ask questions, meet local scouts, and register for the type of scouting that best suits their needs.
The Boy Scouts offer several different scouting options, depending on the needs of your family:
Lone Scouts - Home school families are eligible to register boys age 7 and up for this program. Lone Scouts is a program that allows a boy to work individually with a parent or counselor to achieve the scouting requirements in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts.
Cub Scouts - Families may register boys ages 7-10 to join an existing Cub Scout pack that is close to their residence. Boys are separated by age/grade and learn the skills and values of Cub Scouting along with other boys in their neighborhood. Group outings, camping experiences, and making new friends with similar morals and values is a benefit to this program. At the event, parents will be given the contact information for these groups to help them find a pack near them.
Boy Scouts - Families may register boys ages 11 and up to join an existing Boy Scout Troop that is close to their residence. Boy Scouts is a boy-run program advised by a team of adults. The boys elect leaders from their group to act in leadership positions for the troop. The troop is broken down into patrols where a patrol leader is elected. The boys work together to learn the skills and values of Scouting and then put them to use on outings and campouts.
Forming a new Cub Scout Pack or Boy Scout Troop - Home school support groups will have the opportunity to form a Pack or Troop with their families that are interested in scouting. More information about this option will be provided at the meetings.
Venturing - This program is for boys and girls 14 to 20 to learn real world experiences as a group. The group takes real scenarios and like “how to buy a car” and figures out how it really works.
A list of the current locations and dates is located at: www.heartoftex.org under
“Scouts.”
General scouting information is available at www.longhorncouncil.com .
Jason Beuscher is the district director of the Longhorn Council of the Boy Scouts of America. His district includes Grapevine, Southlake, Colleyville, Trophy Club, Roanoke, and the HEB area. You may contact him at bsalakeview@aol.com or by calling him at 817-231-8533.
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------
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
THURSDAYS --- Peapods Story Time
(for babies 2 years and under and their caregiver.)
Bonnie Finn Room
Registration is required for this program.
For More Information: Contact Kids Help Desk at 817-952-2373
March Themes:
4 - Dr. Seuss
11 - Looking for a Pot of Gold
18 - Hippety Hoppety
25 - Peep Peep
MONDAYS IN MARCH- Tony’s Computer Classes
Time: 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Library Board Room
This class is for the absolute beginner. It will provide a brief overview of exactly what a computer is and how it works with lots of hands-on-practice. No computer experience required.
No Registration is required for these free classes.
Contact: Tony New at 817-952-2342 or tnew@ci.bedford.tx.us
For More Information: Contact Jeanne Green at 817-952-2370
WEDNESDAYS IN MARCH--- Free Spanish Language Classes
Time: 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. (MORNING CLASS)
6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. (EVENING CLASS)
Location: Library Board Room
Ms. Bianca Zaya will introduce the basics of Spanish
No Registration is required for these free classes.
For More Information: Contact Jeanne Green at 817-952-2370 or jgreen@ci.bedford.tx.us
HELP PLAN THE NEW LIBRARY!
The Bedford Public Library will host a series of Focus Groups to get community input on the NEW Bedford Public Library. Your input is essential in order to design a library that meets the needs of the community. You are neither too old nor too young to have your voice heard!
FOCUS GROUP SCHEDULE:
APRIL 24 (Families)
Time: 10 a.m.
APRIL 26 (General Public)
Time: 12:30 p.m.
APRIL 26 (Teens)
Time: 3:00 p.m.
Focus Group Sessions last one hour. You can attend more than one session if it is of interest to you.
Location: Council Chambers
2000 Forest Ridge Drive
Bedford, TX 76021
For More Information: City Hall: 817-952-2100
Maria Redburn/Library Manager: 817-952-2332
Back to LIBRARY PROGRAMS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
FORT WORTH PUBLIC LIBRARY
FEBRUARY PROGRAMS
ALL FORT WORTH BRANCHES
African American Read In!
Location: All Fort Worth Library Locations
Details: Don’t Say Ain’t by Irene Smalls is the title to read for this event! Call your local library for details.
Teen Programs
E-mail: zz_lib_teenservices@fortworthgov.org for more information.
CENTRAL LIBRARY BRANCH
Location: 500 W. 3rd St
817-871-7701
APRIL 1 & 3 - Teen Job Workshop
Time: 4 p.m.
Details: Need a job? Don’t know where to start? Take this workshop and see how far you can go!
APRIL 1 - Anime Club
Time: 5 p.m.
Details: Join us for movies, anime, and a discussion.
APRIL 3 - 24 (THURSDAYS) - Home School Book Club
Time: 2 p.m.
Ages: Teens
Details: A weekly book club just for homeschooled teens!
APRIL 5 --- Teen Job Fair
Time: 12 p.m.
Details: Need a job? Get one at the job fair! Co-sponsored by Texas Workforce Solutions.
APRIL 7 - 28 (WEDNESDAYS) - Plugged In!
Time: 3:30 p.m.
Details: Join us for video games.
DIAMOND HILL/JARVIS
Location: NE 35th Street
817-624-7331
EAST BERRY LIBRARY
Location: 4300 E. Berry St.
817-536-1945
APRIL 3 & 17 - TV Watching Party
Time: 7 p.m.
EAST REGIONAL LIBRARY
Location: 6301 Bridge St.
817-871-6436
APRIL 7-21 (TUESDAYS) --- Plugged In!
Time: 6pm
2 p.m. on 19th & 21st
Details: We got a Wii, so come play!
APRIL 28 --- Gaming Tournament
Time: 6pm
Details: Come play. Registration is required.
MEADOWBROOK LIBRARY
Location: 2800 Stark St.
817-451-0916
APRIL 5-26 (Saturdays) --- Chess Game
Time: 11am
Details: Learn to play chess.
APRIL 1-29 (Tuesdays) --- Chess Academy & Club
Time: 4 p.m.
Details: Join to learn to play chess
NORTHSIDE LIBRARY
Location: 601 Park Street
817-626-8241
RIDGLEA LIBRARY
Location: 3628 Bernie Anderson Drive
817-737-6619
APRIL 5-26 (Saturdays) --- Chess Game
Time: 12 p.m.
Details: Learn to play chess.
RIVERSIDE LIBRARY:
Location: 2913 Yucca Avenue
817-838-6931
SHAMBLEE LIBRARY
Location: 959 East Rosedale St.
817-871-6621
APRIL 7-28 - Game Night
Time: 6 p.m.
Details: Join us for an evening of board, strategy, and card games
APRIL 2-30 (WEDNESDAYS) -- Chess Club
Time: 3 p.m.
Details: Learn to play chess
SOUTHWEST REGIONAL LIBRARY
4001 Library Ln.
817-782-9853
APRIL 4-18 - Plugged In!
Time: 4 p.m.
Details: Join us for DDR, Guitar Hero, and other games.
MARCH 29 - Gaming Tournament
Time: 4 p.m.
SUMMERGLEN LIBRARY
Location: 4205 Basswood Blvd.
817-232-0478
APRIL 5-26 (SATURDAYS) - Chess Club
Time: 2 p.m
Details: Learn to play chess.
APRIL 1 & 15 - Home School Book Club
Time: 1 p.m.
Details: Book club just for home schooled teens.
WEDGWOOD LIBRARY
Location: 3816 Kimberly Ln.
817-292-3368
APRIL 19 - “Knights of the Board” Chess Club
Time: 3 p.m.
Details: Knitting program for teens.
APRIL 12 --- Paint Your Tee Cafe
Time: 3 p.m.
Details: Bring a plain white or grey 100% cotton tee shirt that has been prewashed with no fabric softener and we will provide the paints, stencils, sponges, and brushes, for you to paint and decorate your tee shirt.
Back to LIBRARY PROGRAMS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
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)
APRIL 2 - Explore! Ice Worlds (Session One)
Time: 4 - 5:30 p.m.
APRIL 3 - Explore! Ice Worlds (Session Two
Time: 1 - 2:30 p.m.
Details for Explore Ice Worlds:
Hurst Public Library is officially participating in the testing of a new module for the Lunar and Planetary Institute!
What is it? Where is it? What does it do?
On Earth, in the Library, and in outer space, too!
Through fun, hands-on activities, investigate ice!
Try to attend all dates of the session you choose because the Lunar and
Planetary Institute selected Hurst Public Library as a test site for
this project, and they want your input!
For More Information: 817-788-7302.
APRIL 10 - The Shakespeare Man
Time: 7 p.m.
Robert Clover-Brown will bring Shakespeare to life through a vivid presentation providing insight to the Bard’s personal, business, and creative life. Other activities will allow patrons the chance to see how Shakespeare is still alive and well in our culture today. Come see what is to be or not to be! As well, we are having a Shakespeare Showdown--the deadline is April 2! This is a chance for young Thespians to show their stuff.
APRIL 17 - Free College at Your Fingertips by Jean Burk
Studies have proven that on average, a person with a college education makes TWICE the salary of an individual who only has a high school diploma. Find out how to help ensure your kids a future of financial success by making sure they have the opportunity to pursue a university degree, and standardized tests are the gateway to college entrance and amazing scholarships.
MAY 8 - 1050s Sock Hop
Freddy & the Falcons will rock the house 50s style. Come dressed to impress in your vintage 50s style and ready to dance, dance, dance---the best dressed and best dancers will be recognized.
ON EXHIBIT:
FOYER DISPLAY: Friends of Hurst Library Book Sale Preview
GALLERY WALL: Paintings by Emily Williams
HISTORICAL GALLERY: Exhibit from the Texas Cowboy 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.
Back to LIBRARY PROGRAMS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
McKINNEY MEMORIAL PUBLIC LIBRARY
Location: 101 E. Hunt Street
McKinney, TX 75069
972-547-READ
Contact: Wendy Turner - wturner@mckinneytexas.org
Home School Programs
APRIL 14 -Research Gathering Skills
Grades: 5th - 8th
Time: 3:15 p.m.
Learn basic research skills and become familiar with the library’s many
resources.
Conference Room (upstairs)
Registration Required
APRIL 24 --- Getting to Know Your Library
Grades: K-3rd
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
APRIL 29 --- Using the Internet
Grades: 6th and up
Time: 3:15 p.m.
Conference Room (upstairs)
Learn how to search the internet and how to evaluate internet sites to get reliable and quality information.
Registration Required
For More Information or To Register: Contact Wendy Turner at 972-547-7319 or wturner@mckinneytexas.org
Back to LIBRARY PROGRAMS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
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
APRIL 13 -19 --- National Library Week
Community celebrities visit the library to share their favorite books with children.
APRIL 14-17 - Preschool
Time: 10:30 a.m.
Location: Taylor Auditorium
For preschoolers and their families, as well as childcare groups. Groups must register.
APRIL 17 - Elementary - Afterschool Rules!
Time: 3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Location: Storyroom
For children in grades 1-5
-----------------------------------------------------------
Preschoolers DayCare StoryShare
MONDAYS & TUESDAYS
Time: 10:30 a.m. in the Storyroom
Friends share stories, songs, and books with childcare groups.
Please email or call to register
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
APRIL 3 - an evening of Victorian Parlour Poetry
FIRST THURSDAY OF EACH MONTH
Time: 6:00 p.m. in Taylor Auditorium
Reading classic plays aloud
Printed Page Players is a loose association of literary aficionados, theatre groupies, local actors, and anyone with an interest in literature and drama who gather monthly to read aloud classic plays-providing all the emotion and inflection of a full stage production without the props, costumes, or set-like listening to an old-fashioned radio play.
Texas Writers Network
APRIL 13 - Author Jodi Thomas visits and signs books
Time: 2:00 p.m.- 4:30 p.m. in Taylor Auditorium
The Writers’ Network (adults and teens) is a gathering of writers and aspiring writers who come together for mutual support, critique and networking. The event is free and no registration is required. The group will meet in the Taylor Auditorium at 2 p.m.
Club Read
APRIL 29 - The Red Tent by Anita Diamant
Time: 10 a.m.
East Texas Genealogical Society
APRIL 12 - Family History Seminar
Author Visit: Jodi Thomas
APRIL 13
Time: 2 p.m.
American Girl Reading Club
APRIL 19
Time: 10 a.m. - Noon
Ages: Girls 5-12 are welcome
Taylor Auditorium
Back to LIBRARY PROGRAMS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
2. BEST ROBOTICS 2008 PREVIEW: JUST PLANE CRAZY!
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 next year's competition!
Visit: http://www.bestinc.org/MVC/
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 2008 Product Data Guide included in your igus kit?
Download it here: www.igus.com/yesprogram/
ATTENTION FIRST TEAMS!
Due to the excited, enthusiastic, yet overwhelming number of requests from FIRST teams this season, igus must alter its policy regarding its product donation to teams. As of February 1, 2008, igus will only be able to donate products included in the original kit of FIRST parts to teams.
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
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
Back to CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
4. TEXAS STATE FISH-ART CONTEST
ENTRIES DUE MARCH 31, 2008
The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center is the official host for the Texas State-Fish Art Contest sponsored by Wildlife Forever. All Texas entries in the annual contest are to be sent to TFFC for judging. Winning Texas entries will be forwarded to Wildlife Forever to compete for national best of show and art of conservation stamp honors.
Who Can Participate: All Texas students in grades 4 through 12.
Categories: State-Fish Art Contest entries are judged in three categories: grades 4-6, grades 7-9 and grades 10-12. One Texas winner from each category is selected each year.
Winners are invited to attend the national awards ceremony at Minnesota's Mall of America each summer. Winning designs will be featured on the official State-Fish Art website. One piece of artwork in each grade category will be selected as the national best of show winner, and one entry will be chosen as the annual art of conservation stamp award and be featured on Wildlife Forever's conservation stamp for the coming year. Entries must be postmarked by March 31 each year and must comply with all rules and regulations. An official entry form must accompany all entries.
How to Enter: Students must create an illustration of the Texas state fish or one of the other state fishes and write a composition on its behavior, habitat and conservation. Texas students are encouraged, but not required, to depict the Texas state fish, the Guadalupe bass. Texas entries are judged only against other Texas entries no matter what fish is depicted.
About the Contest: The State-Fish Art Contest is part of a conservation education program designed to spark the imaginations of students while providing valuable lessons about fish and the importance of conserving Texas' aquatic resources. We also offer you the choice to use our free lesson plan.
For Rules:
www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/visitorcenters/tffc/education/fish_art/rules.phtml
For More Information: http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/visitorcenters/tffc/education/fish_art/
Back to CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
5. NORTH TEXAS REGIONAL NATIONAL ENGINEERS WEEK FUTURE CITY COMPETITION FOR 7-8TH GRADERS
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***.
For More Information: Contact Jean Eason at j.eason@ieee.org
or visit www.dfwfuturecity.org
Back to CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
6. STUDENT ART CONTEST
Sponsored by Trails Country Centre for the Arts
ATTN: Homeschool groups and families in Wood, Rains, Franklin, Hopkins, Winnsboro, Camp, Titus Counties!
TCCA is offering a special Student Art Contest (SAC) for students in your area!
APRIL 18 & 19 - Entry Take-In
APRL 21-24 - Judging
APRIL 25, 26, 28 - Notification of Winners
MAY 3 - Performances
MAY 2-31 - Exhibits
Theme: “If I Ruled the World”
Details: An Art Centre’s responsibility is to represent all artists, young and old & TCCA is pleased to initiate this program, which is possibly the first of its kind in our immediate area in east Texas. TCCA recognizes the incredible talent in our children and youth and is proud to offer this avenue of encouragement, support, and success.
The Student Art Contest was designed to encourage and reward students who show talent in the areas of Dance Choreography, Film/Video, Literature & Drama, Musical Composition, Photography and Visual Arts, including 3-D artwork. The theme, “If I Ruled the World”, is the inspiration for creativity and work may be created at home or in the classroom.
TCCA has earnestly pursued established artists in each category to “blind judge” the contest. The Literary and Visual Art pieces will be on exhibit at TCCA throughout the month of May, including Winnsboro’s citywide event, “TEXAS WOODSTOCK” May 2-4, 2008. WOODSTOCK’S theme is built around the “Arts’ and TCCA will promote the contest winners throughout the weekend. Winners in the performing arts will have the opportunity to perform their entry on May 3nd at TCCA. More exciting recognition will be attached, as well.
Contact: We’re asking that one main contact be selected from your association, group of families, etc.,so that we may coordinate efficiently. Please call Cindy Fisher at 903-342-0686 (collect calls accepted) or cell phone (903) 434-3006. Should you get a recording, please leave your name, organization, and daytime phone number.
TCCA SAC Announcement: SAC
TCCA SAC Rules: RULES
TCCA SAC Entry Form: Student Entry Form
TCCA SAC HS Group Form: Homeschool Group Form
Back to CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
7. NATIONAL CONGRESSIONAL ART COMPETITION FOR NORTH TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
SPRING 2008 --- See Deadlines Below
Who: High School Students in North Texas
Details: "An Artistic Discovery" is the annual nationwide Congressional High School Art Competition initiated by Members of the U.S. House of Representatives. Each Congressional District may host its own competition, and since the competition was first launched in 1982, hundreds of thousands of students have participated in over 5000 locally conducted contests.
This spring, several North Texas Congressional offices will hold contests. The winning student from each district will have his or her artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol complex for one year! In addition, the winners and their two guests are invited to the nation's capital in the summer to attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony honoring the winning artists from across the country and opening the 2008 "An Artistic Discovery" exhibition. Thousands of people visiting the nation's capitol, as well as Members of Congress and their staffs, are able to walk through the exhibit daily, viewing artwork from Congressional districts throughout the country-each piece highlighted with the name of the work and student artist.
Interested students and teachers should contact their congressional office ASAP for more information.
Back to CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
8. CITY OF FORT WORTH YOUTH ADVISORY BOARD
In recent years, there has been a growing trend to involve youth in local government. The Fort Worth City Council believes that the voices of young people are important. To facilitate that, the Council has approved a new Youth Advisory Board for the City of Fort Worth. The Youth Advisory Board will advise the City Council on issues regarding the youth in the City of Fort Worth. A brief summary of the Youth Advisory Board follows.
Who May Apply: High school age students who are between the ages of 14-18 and who reside in Fort Worth may submit an
application for consideration for appointment to the advisory board.
Purpose:
The Youth Advisory Board shall:
• act in an advisory capacity to the Fort Worth City Council;
• study youth issues important to the community;
• encourage youth to become actively involved in matters pertaining to the community; and,
• act as a source of information and education on issues important to youth.
Members:
The Youth Advisory Board shall be composed of 27 members who will meet bi-monthly.
Activities:
To be determined by the Youth Advisory Board, following the direction of City Council.
Contact For More Information: Carol Everhart at carol.everhart@fortworthgov.org
Community Relations Department, School and Youth Outreach
1000 Throckmorton, Fort Worth, TX 76102
817.392.8444 817.392.7529 (fax)
For an application: http://www.heartoftex.org/downloads/downloads.html
Back to CIVICS/GOOD CITIZENSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
9. CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS TEEN COURT
Teen Court benefits both youth and community by providing an alternative method of adjudicating juvenile offenders and allowing teen volunteers to learn about the judicial system, while documenting Community Service hours.
Who Can Volunteer: Full time students ages 13-18 who are in PUBLIC, PRIVATE OR HOME SCHOOLS.
Volunteers may serve as jurors for our Teen Court sessions, or once trained, can act as a defense attorney or prosecutor in our Teen Court trials.
Teen Defendants are held responsible for their behavior while giving them the opportunity to participate in and become knowledgeable about the judicial system. Juvenile Offenders "pay" for their offense(s) by performing community service and participating in Teen Court. Volunteer teen attorneys present offender's cases to a jury of their peers.
Upon successful completion of the program, offender's cases are dismissed and do not appear on their permanent records.Teen Court alleviates the strain on the regular court system, besides giving juvenile offenders a second chance. The program also provides youths in the area a chance to participate in the judicial process.
Location: North Richland Hills Teen Court
6720 N.E. Loop 820
North Richland Hills, Tx 76180817-427-6705
To Volunteer: Contact Heather Hollingsworth at hhollingsworth@nrhtx.com
For More Information: http://www.nrhtx.com/dept_courts_teen.aspx
You may also come to Teen Court on any night Teen Court is in session to observe, prior to signing up to be a volunteer.
Back to CIVICS/GOOD CITIZENSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
10. TEXAS HOME SCHOOL COALITION GOOD CITIZENSHIP AWARD PROGRAM
Do you ever scratch your head when thinking about how to fulfill the requirement of a "study of good citizenship"? THSC offers a Good Citizenship Program, which rewards students for their participation in the political process and helps them fulfill that requirement.
Certificates are printed, upon request, for students who have volunteered at least forty hours in Voter Registration, Political Party Process, Campaign Process, and Legislative Process, in any combination.
Each year the program culminates with rewards presented at the annual THSC Awards Banquet.At the 2008 Awards Banquet, to be held on April 11 in Houston, the student who has volunteered the greatest number of hours in any one area (or has registered the most voters) over the last twelve months will be presented the award for that area. Each award winner and his/her parents will be invited guests at the banquet.
The volunteer hours may be tracked on a form that can be downloaded and printed as often as needed. Students will be granted eight hours for each Capitol Day attended.
Please note that, while certificates will be issued upon request at any time, the awards will be given based on hours worked between April 1, 2007, and April 1, 2008. The forms must be postmarked or e-mailed no later than April 1 if students are to be considered for awards.
What is a course in good citizenship: For a detailed description, please visit: http://www.thsc.org/good_citizen/good_citizenship_program.asp
The Good Citizenship Certificates and Awards
THSC has instituted an ongoing program to recognize home school students who participate in good citizenship activities with its Good Citizenship Certificate. This certificate will be awarded to each student who participates with at least forty (40) hours of volunteer work in any combination from the following areas: Voter Registration, Political Party Process, Campaign Process, and Legislative Process.
Home school students may be awarded THSC Good Citizenship Certificates at any time following the completion of 40 hours of good citizenship work.
Any home schooled student who earns a Good Citizenship Certificate is automatically entered into the competition for THSC’s Good Citizenship Awards. The following awards recognize the Texas students with the most volunteer hours (highest number of voters registered for the Alamo Award) in each category and are presented at the annual THSC Awards Banquet.
Alamo Award
New voters can be registered most easily when an adult becomes a deputy voter registrar. The parent or support group member can then work with home school students as a deputy voter registrar to take voter registration cards to people who fill t hem in and give them to the deputy voter registrar. These completed cards will then be delivered by the deputy voter registrar to the voter registrar of the county. Home school students can use meetings of support groups, church meetings, and other gathering to register new voters. Deputy voter registrars will be responsible for documenting the number of hours completed by home school students in this area for credit toward the THSC Good Citizenship Certificate. In addition, THSC will award the Alamo Good Citizenship Award to the student who registers the most new voters in Texas for each year.
Ranger Award
Credit for the certificate may also be earned by volunteer work in the campaign of candidates for public office. Any local, state, or federal campaign qualifies for this effort. Campaign officials are responsible for documenting the number of hours completed by home school students in this area for credit toward the THSC Good Citizenship Certificate. In addition, THSC will award the Ranger Good Citizenship Award to the student with the most hours of volunteer work in political campaigns.
Lone Star Award
Home school students may earn credit for good citizenship in the political party process by volunteering to help at precinct, county/senatorial, or state conventions or other political party functions of their chosen political party. Political party officers are responsible for documenting the number of hours completed by home school students in this area for credit toward the THSC Good Citizenship Certificate. In addition, THSC will award the Lone Star Good Citizenship Award to the home school student with the most hours in the category of the political party process in Texas.
Republic Award
Finally, credit for this certificate may also be earned by students who are involved in the legislative process at any local, state, or federal level. Time spent in working for or against any particular issue qualifies. Parents or leaders of any group working on such issues are responsible for documenting the number of hours completed by home school students in this area for credit toward the THSC Good Citizenship Certificate. In addition, THSC will award the Republic Good Citizenship Award to the home school student with the most hours each year in the category of the legislative process.
The THSC Good Citizenship Certificates will be mailed to students upon receipt of verification from the officials documenting the hours. The Alamo, Ranger, Lone Star & Republic Awards will be given to winners at the THSC Awards Banquet held each year.
To View a Sample Certificate: http://www.thsc.org/good_citizen/good_citizenship_certificate.asp
To Download the Good Citizenship Registration and Tracking Form: http://www.thsc.org/good_citizen/good_citizenship.asp
Back to CIVICS/GOOD CITIZENSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
11. CERTIFICATES OF SPECIAL CONGRESSIONAL RECOGNITION
District 24
Congressman Kenny Marchant, U.S. House of Representative, would like to give each graduating senior, who resides in the 24th District of Texas, a certificate of Special Congressional Recognition.
The certificates will be printed with the name of the senior and will be signed by the Congressman.
The completed certificates will then be mailed directly to the senior’s home address.
If interested, please send the name of the graduating high school senior, the date of graduation and the senior’s home address to:
tammi.bartlett@mail.house.gov or call Congressman Marchant’s office at 972.556.0162.
Address:
Congressman Kenny Marchant
9901 E. Valley Ranch Parkway, Ste. 3035
Irving, Texas 75063
To find out if your Congressman has a similar program, please contact your representative:
To Locate Your Representatives:
www.fyi.legis.state.tx.us/
Back to CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE ANNOUNCEMENTS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
12. US SERVICE ACADEMIES FORUM
APRIL 12
Time: 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Location: Tarrant County College Northeast, Student Center
828 Harwood Road
Hurst, TX 76054
Cost: FREE and open to the public
Contact: Robin Vaughan, Office of Congressman Michael Burgess at 972-434-9700 or
Robin.vaughan@mail.house.gov
Details: The U.S. Service Academies Forum is jointly sponsored by Congressman Michael Burgess, as well as Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison and Senator John Cornyn, Congressman Sam Johnson, Congressman Joe Barton, Congresswoman Kay Granger, Congressman Kenny Marchant, and Congressman Pete Sessions.
This informational forum provides interested students grades eight through twelve an opportunity to learn more about our nation's service academies, requirements for admission and the selection process.
Representatives from congressional offices and all five academies (U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and U.S. Air Force Academy) as well as cadets and midshipmen will be on hand to talk with North Texas students, parents and educators on a one to one basis about the possibilities associated with attending these premier educational institutions and the sorts of careers they generate. For those interested in additional options, ROTC representatives will also be present to assist students with ROTC scholarship information.
“The United States Service Academies offer a top notch education for those young people who have the desire to serve our county,” said Congressman Burgess. “I encourage interested students, parents and educators to attend this event and take advantage of this excellent opportunity to find out what it takes to apply and possibly attend one of our nation’s service academies.”
Back to CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE ANNOUNCEMENTS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
12. DFW METROPLEX US SERVICE ACADEMIES DAY
APRIL 12
Time: 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Location: Tarrant County College Northeast, Student Center
828 Harwood Road
Hurst, TX 76054
Cost: FREE and open to the public
Contact: Robin Vaughan, Office of Congressman Michael Burgess at 972-434-9700 or
Robin.vaughan@mail.house.gov
Details: An “All Service Academies Day” sponsored by the offices of Senators Hutchison and Cornyn as well as Congressional Districts, TX-3, 6, 12, 24, 26, and 32
Back to CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE ANNOUNCEMENTS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
14. THEO IN PLANO OFFERING CLASSES FOR HOMESCHOOLERS
CLASSES OFFERED at THEO
FALL 2008 CLASS SCHEDULE
THEO’s fall schedule is on the web! If you love homeschooling, but need a little help with classes for your junior high or high school student, then visit www.THEOsonline.org
We offer many old favorites as well as several new options for our homeschooled students.
SUMMER CAMPS
THEO offers summer camps as well-details are being set as you read this!
We will have a Shakespeare camp, Band camp as well as science and reading camps for the younger set.
TESTING SERVICES
MAY 19-22 - Stanford and Iowa Basic Testing
THEO offers both Stanford and Iowa Basic testing on May 19-22nd.
NEW TO HOME SCHOOLING
APRIL 7 - Homeschool, Who Me?
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Cost: FREE
For those new to homeschooling.
To RSVP: Email Terri@THEOsonline.org
Location: 1301 Custer Road, Suite 703
Plano, TX 75075
For More Information: www.THEOsonline.org
Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
15. CLASSES AND ACHIEVEMENT TESTING AVAILABLE AT CERC IN ROWLETT
Achievement Testing
CERC offers monthly standardized achievement testing. Please contact the store for more details.
Discount: CERC is offering HEART of Texas members a 15% discount on any in-stock items. You must present your valid HEART of Texas Family I.D. card to qualify for the discount.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html
Location: Christian Educators Resource Center
3810 Industrial, Suite 300
Rowlett, TX 75088
Contact: 972-475-4138
www.cerconline.org
Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
16. FAITH CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
FCA is a Christian School in McKinney, Texas which offers Academic and Enrichment classes to home school families with children Pre-school aged through High School.
HOMESCHOOL CLASSES
Academic classes through 8th grade - offered on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Classes include Math, English, Science and History
Enrichment classes through 8th grade - offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Classes include Spanish, Music, Drama, Art, Crafts and more!
High School classes offered on Tuesdays/Thursdays:
Classes include Geometry, English, Biology, Health, “Cracking the SAT U.S. History Subject Test”, Applied Music and Theory, The Stock Market Game, and Audio Video Technical Production.
Spring classes still taking enrollment!
For 2008 Spring Schedule:
http://www.fcamckinney.com/FCA/2007-2008ClassSchedules.asp
TESTING SERVICES
MARCH 31, APRIL 2, APRIL 4 - Stanford Achievement Testing
Call for details: 972-562-5323 ext. 22
SAT College Prep Genius Workshop: Faith Christian Academy will offer a rigorous TWO DAY course by Jean Burk designed to teach students the techniques needed to become successful in taking the SAT and PSAT/NMSQT tests. This course will equip students with the necessary strategies and tips that can help increase their test scores. Students will also learn how to dispel common practices and misconceptions about the SAT that can harm their scores. Click HERE for Registration and Details.
For More Information:
Contact Toni Gore at tgore@fcamckinney.org or 972-562-5323 ext. 22
Location: 115A Industrial Boulevard
McKinney, TX
www.fcamckinney.com
Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
17. 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)
Contact For More Information: Sandra Carey at club_expressions@yahoo.com
Location: The Summit Church
4101 East Park Blvd.
Plano, TX 75074
Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
18. 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
Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
19. CHRISTIAN COTTAGE PREP
Christian Cottage Prep is taking applications for the 2008/2009 Academic Year!
CCP is a unique educational experience. The all-girl classes for grades 6th-8th focus on learning style differences and how to achieve maximum goals academically. There are multi age and grade groups of young ladies in combined classes to achieve higher learning towards grade level and beyond.
The program for 2008-2009 will allow up to three part time students (3 or 4 day “in class” days per week) and three or more full time students (5 days per week) in each classroom. The maximum is six students per room in order to give individual attention to each student. Students are all middle school grades 6th, 7th, and 8th.
CCP welcomes students that have had difficulty with academics (one or more subjects), want to raise their Stanford Achievement test scores to a higher level, or for the student that has “not fit in” due to unique circumstances in a traditional setting. Each student is tested in math and English for proper level placement
Location: 5601 Bridge Street, Suite 335
Fort Worth, TX 76112
Contact: 817-975-6209 or teriwillis5309@sbcglobal.net
Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
20. TARRANT COUNTY COLLEGE HOME SCHOOL CLASSES --- FREE MATH ASSESSMENT
For information about Home School Math Classes offered at Tarrant County College, contact
Maurine Amend at 972-660-8414
Classes and campuses:
SE Campus
Algebra I
Algebra II
Geometry
College Alegebra
NW Campus
Algebra II
Geometry
NW Campus
Biology
Chemistry
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
Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
21. LIBRARY USED BOOK SALES IN NORTH TEXAS
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:
ARLINGTON - April 2 - 6
2008 Spring Book Sale
Time: Thurs: 4-8 p.m; Fri & Sat: 9 am. - 5 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.;
Sun 11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Location: Meadowbrook Recreation Center
1400 E. Dugan Street
(Meadowbrook Park)
817-274-8831
Contact: fapl@sbcglobal.net or henryclutz@sbcglobal.net
Books: 70,000+ books, videos, audio books; Sunday is half price day
-----------------------------------------------------------
TYLER - April 3-5
Time: Thurs. - Sat 8 am - 5 p.m.
Location: Smith County Medical Society Alliance Book Fair Building
4410 DC Drive
Loop 323
(behind Kelly Tire)
903-561-1353
Books: Thousands
-----------------------------------------------------------
WICHITA FALLS - April 5
Location: Friends of the Library Bookstore
Wichita Falls Public Library
600 11th Street
940-767-0868 x 248
Books: 3,000; 100% donated; 85% hardcover; .50-$2
-----------------------------------------------------------
GRAND PRAIRIE - April 9-13
Time: Wed, Thurs: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Fri: 10a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sat: 9 am. - 5 pm.; Sun 1-5p.m.
Location: Main Library
901 Conover Drive
972-262-8015
Books: 16,000; 96% donated; 90% hardcover; sorted; not picked over; .25 - $2;
Sunday half price. If books set aside during shopping, only 10% may be deselected.
-----------------------------------------------------------
CROWLEY - April 11-12
Time: 10am - 5 p.m.
Location: Crowley Public Library
409 S. Oak Street
Contact: library_dallas@gial.edu
Books: 2,500; 25% donated; 70% hardcover; sorted; not picked over; no buyer restrictions; .25 - $1
-----------------------------------------------------------
DALLAS - April 11-13
Time: Fri & Sat: 10a.m.-5p.m.; Sun: 1-5p.m.
Location: Casa View Library
10355 Ferguson Road
214-328-6595
Books: 1,200; 100% donated; 60% hardcover; sorted; not picked over; no buyer restrictions; .50-$2
-----------------------------------------------------------
CEDAR PARK - April 12; July 12; Oct. 11
Time: Sat: 9a.m.-4p.m.; Sun: 1-4p.m.; Mon: 9a.m.-Noon
(Monday is Library Open House)
Location: Cedar Park Public Library
550 Discovery Boulevard
512-401-5600
Contact: library@cedarparktx.us
Books: 2,500; 100% donated; 60+% hardcover; sorted; not picked over; no buyer restrictions; $1-$2
-----------------------------------------------------------
DENTON - April 12; July 12; Oct. 11
Time: Sat: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m
Admission: $1 (friends and children under 12 free)
Location: North Branch Library
3020 N. Locust Street
Contact: ljj14@aol.com
Books: 6,000; 35% donated; 75% hardcover; sorted; not picked over; .50-$1
-----------------------------------------------------------
WHITE SETTLEMENT - April 12
Time: Sat: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Location: White Settlement Public Library
8215 White Settlement Rd
817-367-0166
Contact: wsplib@wstx.us
Books: 2,000 books; 60% donated; sorted; not p icked over; no buyer restrictions;
Paperback/Media Sale only: Regular paperbacks .30; Withdrawn paperbacks 6/$1; Videos/DVDs $1
-----------------------------------------------------------
SHERMAN - April 19
Time: Sat: 8-4
Location: Sherman Public Library
421 N. Travis
Books: 3,000; 85% donated; 50% hardcover; sorted; .25 -$1
-----------------------------------------------------------
HALTOM CITY - April 24-26
Time: Thurs: 10-8; Fri: 10-5:30; Sat: 10-4
Location: Haltom City Public Library at Haltom City Recreation Center
4839 Broadway
817-222-7786
Contact: flywme7@peoplepc.com
Books: 7,000; not picked over; .25 - $2
-----------------------------------------------------------
ROCKWALL - April 25-26
Time: Fri: 1-6; Sat: 9-3;
Location: Rockwall County Library at Harry Myers Community Center
815 E. Washington St
972-882-0340
Books: 5,000; 100% donated; 50% hardcover; sorted; not picked over; .25 - $1
-----------------------------------------------------------
BURLESON - April 25-26
Time: Fri: 10a.m. - 6p.m.; Sat: 10-2
Location: Burleson Public Library
248 S.W. Johnson Ave
817-295-6131 x264
Books: 5,000; books; 100% donated; 50% hardcover; sorted; .10-$2
-----------------------------------------------------------
FORT WORTH - April 25-27
Time: Sat: 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m; Sun: 1 - 4:30 p.m.
Preview: Fri 10-8; Friends; join at the door
Location: Friends of Fort Worth Public Library
At Chapter II Outlet Store
(3 doors from Book Store)
817-346-2255
Books: Thousands of books; includes CDs; videos; audio; .50-$1’
Come often - we will restock at the end of each day.
-----------------------------------------------------------
ROCKWALL - April 25-26
Time: Fri: 1-6 p.m.; Sat: 9a.m.-3p.m.
Location: Rockwall County Library
At Harry Myers Community Center
815 E. Washington St
972-882-0340
Books: 5,000; 100% donated; 50% hardcover; sorted; not picked over; no buyer restrictions; .50-$1
-----------------------------------------------------------
SOUTHLAKE - April 25-27
Time: Fri: 4-9; Sat: 10-9; Sun: 11-6
Location: Southlake Library at Southlake Town Square
1400 Main Street
Books: 5,000; 100% donated; 10% hardcover; sorted; paperback .50; hardcovers $1
Sale is part of Art in the Square.
-----------------------------------------------------------
GRANBURY - APRIL 26-27
Time: Sat: 9a.m.-6p.m.; Sun: 1-4p.m.
Friends Preview: Thurs & Fri 9am-6pm; can join at the door
Location: Hood County Library
222 N. Travis Street
817-776-1548
Contact: joandty@lakegranbury.com
Books: 25,000; 90% donated; 80% hardcover; sorted; not picked over; no buyer restrictions; .25-$1; Sun $5/box
Back to BOOK SALES & HOME SCHOOL BOOK STORES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
22. CHRISTIAN EDUCATORS RESOURCE CENTER
CERC, located in Rowlett, is a home school book store offering classes, testing, and other home school resources.
It is located at:
3810 Industrial, Suite 300
Rowlett, TX 75088
972-475-4138
Website: http://cerconline.org/
Discount: CERC is offering HEART of Texas members a 15% discount on any materials that are in stock,
with a valid Heart of Texas family membership card.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html
Back to BOOK SALES & HOME SCHOOL BOOK STORES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
23. CREATIVE ARTS IN ACTION
Creative Arts in Action, located in Watauga, provides the best in curriculum, classes and classical theatre.
DURING THE MONTH OF APRIL
April Spring Clearance of ALL Used Curriculum
Creative Arts In Action is having a Spring Clearance on ALL of our
Used Curriculum during the month of April ONLY.
Take an additional 25% off our already low prices while supplies last.
Prices adjusted at the register. Not good with any other offer.
Don't miss this once a year event!!
Location:
5733 Watauga Road
Watauga TX 76148
817-281-2293
(Between 377 and Rufe Snow in Northeast Fort Worth, Texas)
Website: http://www.creativeartsinaction.com/
Discount: Creative Arts In Action is offering HEART of Texas members a 10% discount off all new and used curriculum and tickets to our student theatre performances, with a valid Heart of Texas family membership card.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html
SUMMER CLASSES OFFERED
Registration has begun!
Please check out our website for descriptions, dates and prices.
Below are a few of the classes that will be offered:
Super-Math and Super Reading with Dr. Miles Jones
Super Math is a concept ahead of its time. Using the techniques of Dr. Jones' famous Accelerated Learning Super-Math program, students and parents will work together to master the fundamentals of math. Students from ages 2 through High School can learn math on the same day using the same unique teaching style found only in Super-Math.
PSAT Math Prep with Marc Sandefur
This PSAT math review course will familiarize students with the format of the PSAT, 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 homeworkassigned.
Stanford Achievement Test for Grades 2-8
MAY 12 - MAY 14
Cost: $85 per test is due at the time of your order
(Tests ordered late will cost an additional $10)
Details: The Stanford Achievement Test is a nationally standardized test put out by Bob Jones Testing & Evaluation Services. It is an untimed test and is given at Creative Arts in Action each spring. Tests will be given by qualified Stanford test administrators in May.
The Otis-Lennon School Ability Test (OLSAT) is also available for an additional fee.
To Register: Call 817-281-2293
Theatre Productions directed by Anicia Brown
Emperor's New Clothes (Grades 3-7)
Annie (Grades 3-12)
Godspell (Grades 8-12)
Back to BOOK SALES & HOME SCHOOL BOOK STORES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
24. HOME EDUCATORS RESOURCE
The Home Educators Resource has two store locations, one in Lewisville and the other in Duncanville.
They sell a large array of new and used books and curriculum, plus they offer classes and other resource
to homeschool families.
The Lewisville Store is Located at:
1288 W. Main Street Suite 203
Lewisville, TX 75067
972-956-8320
The Duncanville Store is CLOSED
Website: http://homeeducatorsresource.com/
Discount: Home Educators Resource is offering 10% off new and used books to HEART of Texas family members. Plus, members will still earn punches on their HER Buyer's Card.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html
Back to BOOK SALES & HOME SCHOOL BOOK STORES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
25. RHSA USED BOOK SALE
APRIL 10
Time: 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Waterview Church of Christ
1409 N. Waterview Drive (between Arapaho & Campbell)
Details: All prices will be in whole dollar amounts - so bring plenty of dollar bills and a full check book! NO CHANGE WILL BE MADE. COME PREPARED!!!
For More Information: Call 972-238-8641 and ask for Leah Carey
Back to BOOK SALES & HOME SCHOOL BOOK STORES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
26. DALLAS ARBORETUM EVENTS
MARCH 8 - APRIL 13 --- DALLAS BLOOMS
The 2008 festival theme is The Star of Texas, and one of the best things about our great state. The incredible beauty of the arboretum, will be highlighted throughout the festival. This will include music, food, celebrities, poetry, and our rich history. The centerpiece of Dallas Blooms: The Star of Texas, will include a giant flower-filled star and other theme-inspired topiaries that will fill the garden. Dallas Blooms will feature more than 400,000 spring-blooming bulbs, over 3,000 azaleas and thousands of another annuals and perennials spread throughout the 66-acre garden. The 2008 festival is a fun-filled five-week, six-weekend event and is the largest outdoor floral festival in the Southwest. Popular themed activities that are being planned include, trick roping, hay rides, armadillo races and, country and western entertainment with an old fashioned square dance. Favorite activities return, including Mommy & Me Mondays and Tiny Tots Tuesdays.
What's in Bloom
No matter the time of year, the Arboretum is always in bloom. Both spring and fall feature wild bursts of color. Summer does nothing to diminish the bloom of the Arboretum plantings, which thrive on the warmth of Dallas' summer months. And, because of Dallas' temperate winter temperature, the arboretum is even in blooming the middle of winter. Regardless when you come, there will be plenty to see and plenty of flowers to enjoy.
Hours: Open Daily 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Located:
8525 Garland Road
Dallas, TX 75219
214-515-6500
www.dallasarboretum.org
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
27. 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.
MARCH/APRIL/MAY CAMPS
APRIL 2 & 3 - Blackland Prairie
MAY 7 & 8 - Deserts
Cost: Regular rate: $15/camp pre-registered by mail.
Walk-ins the day of camp: $18, **make sure you phone in that you're coming.
4 year olds $10
Under 4 and parents FREE.
For Camp/Class Descriptions and Other Information: http://www.camptonkawatexas.com/classes/full_class_listing.shtml
APRIL 18, 19, 20 - Family Camp
Register by April 1, for reduced rates
Come one or more days. Tell your homeschool groups, it will be a time to reconnect with all your friends, family, and nature.
Come to the whole event or pay per days you wish to attend. You can arrive Thursday evening if you plan to attend the Friday events.
Costs: Pre-registration postmarked by April 5th:
Adult $25/ day or $70 for week-end
13-19 $18/day or $50 for week-end
5-12 $12/day or $30 for week-end
4-under FREE
After April 5th:
Adult $30/day or $80 for week-end
13-19 $22/day or $60 for week-end
5-12 $15/day or $40 for week-end
4-under $5/day or $15 for week-end
This will be a family event, at least one parent must be in attendance.
Children under 5, must be supervised and accompanied by parent to workshops.
Evening Activities (no cost) : Star Gazing, Storytelling, Campfire Song & Music, Nightwalks and Night Woods Activities.
Time: 9:30 a.m. - Morning Session Workshops Begin
1:00 p.m. Afternoon Session Workshops Begin
Class Description
Our newly added camp can either be just a relaxing couple of days of family fellowship or you can participate in outdoor workshops ranging from fire classes, rabbit sticks, indian beading, pine needle baskets, nature awareness games and activities, horsebackriding and kayaking, to name a few. Some workshops will have a minimnal charge to cover materials for that workshop. Both morning and afternoons workshops will be offered, with sign up sheets the evening before.
Food: NO Food will be provided. Bring your own provisions to accommodate the needs of your family.
Sorry No Pets allowed.
APRIL 26 - Arbor Day Celebration
Time: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Bring your lunch
Cost: FREE (asking for tree donations)
If your family or home school group or other organization donates for a tree, we’ll put your name on the tree.
Details: This is a great time to come out and visit the camp!
There will be storytimes for the kids, as well as workshops and educational programs on various tree-related topics - appropriate for all ages!
Or you can just come out and walk the trails and just enjoy being in nature!!
It will be a lot of fun for everyone!! Bring your whole family or homeschool group!
We will be taking a break for summer camps.
Nature Awareness Day Camps start up again In August.
JUNE SUMMER CAMP SCHEDULE
If you are a returning camper, receive a $35 to $50 discount by bringing a friend to camp! Book early, we only have so much room in the Tipis. Horse camps will be sleeping in the barn, but we only have so many horses, so enroll early.
9th to 12th - Girls Horsing Around Summer Camp
10th to 12th - Walk In The Woods Summer Camp
16th to 20th - Week In The Woods Summer Camp
19th - 21st - Western Days Summer Camp
22nd - 27th - Week In The Woods - Teen Summer Camp
23rd to 26th - Teen Girls Horsing Around Summer Camp
30th to July 3rd - Boys Horsing Around Summer Camp
For More Information: Contact April at camptonkawa@bigplanet.com or 903-429-6483
www.camptonkawatexas.com
If you bookmarked our camp previously, make sure you redo it so that you have the new information for 2008.
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
28. FORT WORTH NATURE CENTER AND REFUGE PROGRAMS
APRIL 5 --- Frog Watch
Time: 1-4 p.m.
Cost: FREE with paid admission
Ever wonder what was making all that noise in the dark? If you were near water, it probably was some sort of amphibian, either a frog or a toad. Join Mark Pyle for this interesting workshop as you learn to identify these animals by both sight and sound. FREE (with paid admission).
APRIL 6 --- Backyard Wilderness
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Admission: FREE with paid admission
Would you like a variety of animals in your backyard? Join us and you will learn how to provide habitats for birds, butterflies, frogs, and more right in your own backyard. FREE (with paid admission).
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
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
29. FOSSIL RIM HOME SCHOOL CLASSES AND EVENTS
APRIL 4 --- Living Texas Overnight Camp
Time: 10 a.m.
Details: We will learn about Native Americans, bison, cattle drives, and more, through hands-on experiences. Includes an authentic Chuckwagon Dinner, and a guided tour of Fossil Rim.
To Register: homeschool@fossilrim.org
or call 254-897-2960 ext. 216
APRIL 21 --- Conservation in Action Day
Time: 9 - 2:30ish
Break for Lunch: 12:00-1:00
Guided Tour of Fossil Rim: 1:00-2:30ish
Details: Learn about different ways you can conserve natural resources; participate in an on-site conservation project, then take a guided tour of Fossil Rim.
MAY 5 --- Homeschool Nature Journaling Event
Time: 10a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Break for Lunch: 12:00-1:00
Guided Tour of Fossil Rim: 1:00-2:30ish
Details: This event will combine a nature journaling class, an art class, a picnic lunch, and a tour of Fossil Rim. In the morning, we will learn 4 different nature journaling techniques. After a picnic lunch, we will have a basic art class, followed by driving to specific sites within Fossil Rim to practice our Nature Journaling skills!
MAY 19 --- Homeschool African Safari Day Camp
Details to be announced
MAY 30 --- Stargazer Paul Derrick Astronomy Event for Homeschoolers and Others
Time: 8 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Mr. Derrick returns with a Power Point presentation entitled "Constellations of Spring," a laser pointer "Sky Tour," and Telescope Viewing using Mr. Derrick's 8-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope.
JUNE 2 --- Homeschool Fossil Dig Class & Tour
Time: 10 a.m. - 2:30 p .m.
Break for Lunch: 12:00-1:00
Guided Tour of Fossil Rim: 1:00-2:30ish
Details: In the morning, take a bus down to our Fossil Pit and dig for marine fossils! Share a picnic lunch at the Overlook, then take a guided tour of Fossil Rim's current, non-marine residents!!!
JUNE 16 --- Homeschool Native Plant Scavenger Hunt & Tour
Time: 10 a.m. - 2:30 p .m.
Break for Lunch: 12:00-1:00
Guided Tour of Fossil Rim: 1:00-2:30ish
Details: Use our Native Plant Flip Book to identify the native plants along our nature trail in the morning, share a picnic lunch, then tour Fossil Rim.
To Register: homeschool@fossilrim.org
or call 254-897-2960 ext. 216
For more Details: www.fossilrim.com/visiting/home_school.html
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
30. HERITAGE FARMSTEAD MUSEUM --- PLANO
The Museum Grounds are Open Year-Round (Except Mondays and Holidays)
Tuesday - Sunday 9:00am - 4:30pm
Docent-Led Tours - Tuesday through Sunday
Time: 1:30 p.m. (one tour daily)
Tour begins on the front porch. Includes Farrell-Wilson house, outbuildings, and grounds.
Admission: $5 Adults; $3.50 Children 5 & up, Students, and Seniors (65+);
Children 4 and under are free; Museum members free
Docent will collect admission fees before the tour begins.
Self-Guided Grounds Tours - Tuesday through Sunday
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Tour the grounds only. No access to the Farrell-Wilson house our outbuildings.
Grounds guide available.
Admission: $2 per person
Children 4 and under are free; Museum members free.
Other Tours: Available by appointment. Call 972-881-0140.
FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH --- Scout Tours REQUIRE ADVANCE RESERVATIONS --- Call the Farmstead office to reserve a date.
Tours are booked on a first come first served basis
Cost: Pricing has been revised. Contact the Farmstead office for more information.
(No siblings under 4 years old)
Tours must be PREPAID.
Scouts will receive a patch from the Farmstead.
FRIDAYS AT THE FARMSTEAD (Programs last 90 minutes)
(For children ages 2-5)
Time: 10:30
Cost: $6/child/program & $3/adult
To Register: Call 972-881-0140
NOTE: Prepayment and registration are required. Registrations are welcome until Wed noon for the Friday program that same week. All fees are non-refundable.
APRIL 11th - “Now That Bugs Me!” Children will be introduced to simple concepts relating to bugs and their purpose on a farm.
APRIL 25th - “Teddy Bear Picnic” Children will be introduced to simple concepts surrounding the history of the stuffed teddy bear and its beloved meaning.
FRIDAYS AT THE FARMSTEAD (Programs last 90 minutes)
(For children ages 6-12)
Time: 1:30
Cost: $8/child/program
To Register: Call 972-881-0140
NOTE: Prepayment and registration are required. Registrations are welcome until Wed noon for the Friday program that same week. All fees are non-refundable.
APRIL 11 - “Chores All Year Long” Children will experience topics of discovery concerning children’s chores around a turn-of-the-century farmstead.
APRIL 25 - “Planting and Growing” Children will experience topics of discovery focusing on seeds, flowers, and planning activities associated with early 1900 century farm life.
SPECIAL EVENTS
APRIL 6 - Miss Ammie Wilson’s Birthday Celebration and Spring Celebration Time: 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Admission: $5 adults; $3.50 children and seniors per person Details: The Heritage Farmstead Museum will celebrate 127 years since the birth of Miss Ammie during its annual Spring festival. Please join us for games, crafts, bake sale, birthday cake, sheep shearing demonstrations, live music and much more.
SUMMER CAMPS
Pre-school 2-5 year-olds:
JUNE 2 - 5 --- “Mommy and Me Go to Camp”
Time: 9:30-11:30
Admission: $20/day or $75/week
JUNE 2 --- Animals, wash clothes, grind corn, etc.
JUNE 3 --- Animals, counting, one room schoolhouse, etc.
JUNE 4 --- Animals, cowboys/cowgirls, etc.
JUNE 5 --- Animals, colors, plants, potting tables, etc.
6-12 year-olds:
JUNE 16 - 19 --- “Creek Camp”
Time: 9:30-12:30pm
Admission: $40/day or $150/week
JUNE 16 --- Building dams, water flow, etc.
JUNE 17 --- Ecology, pollution, water cycle, etc.
JUNE 18th --- Exploring, water as power, etc.
JUNE 19--- Boats, fossils, plaster prints, etc.
6-12 year-olds:
JULY 7 - 11 --- “Chores on the Farm”
Time: 9:30-12:30
Admission: $40/day or $180/week
JULY 7 --- Animals, canning, salting/curing, root cellar, etc.
JULY 8 --- Animals, churning butter, preparing meals, etc.
JULY 9 --- Animals, gardening, harvesting, potting tables, etc.
JULY 10 --- Animals, washing clothes, housework, etc.
JULY 11 --- Animals, candle making, games, etc.
6-12 year-olds:
JULY 28 -31 --- “Toys, Games, and Pastimes”
Time: 9:30-12:30
Admission: $40/day or $150/week
JULY 28 --- Thaumatrope, stilts, hoops, dolls, marbles, etc.
JULY 29 --- Chromoscope, mechanical banks, pencil pastimes, etc.
JULY 30 --- Steroscope, spinning tops, card games, jack straws, etc.
JULY31 --- Water/creek games, cudgel, shiney, etc.
8-12 year-olds:
AUGUST 12 - 14 --- “Victorian Art”
Time: 9:30-12:30
Admission: $40/day or $110/week
AUGUST 12 --- Paint, tiles, silhouettes, action books, etc.
AUGUST 13 --- Textiles, cotton, wool, etc.
AUGUST 14 --- Dying fabrics, needlework, stuffed animals, etc.
VOLUNTEER GARDENER NEEDED:
The Heritage Farmstead Museum is looking for a volunteer gardener to take charge of the historic kitchen garden for the 2008 growing season. Some experience helpful. Gardener will also benefit from the gardens fresh vegetables in the fall. Please contact Angie Carroll, Volunteer Coordinator, for further information. 972-881-0140.
For Registration and Other Information: 972-881-0140 http://heritagefarmstead.org/events.htm
Location: Heritage Farmstead Museum
1900 West 15th Street
Plano, TX
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
31. SHARKAROSA OPEN-TO-THE-PUBLIC DAYS
SATURDAYS
Time: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. (last tour begins at 4:30)
Admission: $8 per person; kids 2 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!
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)
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
32. TEXAS DISCOVERY GARDENS ---
Community Service
Projects: Opportunities for older scouts
are available on special projects and
community events such as Day at Fair Park. Training is provided by the staff of Texas Discovery Gardens.
For more info: Contact Melissa Martin at mmartin@texasdiscoverygardens.org or 214.428.7476 ext. 25.
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 Scouting Program Info: 214-428-7476 x 27
For More Information: www.texasdiscoverygardens.org
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
33. TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT ACTIVITIES
ATHENS, TX
APRIL 5 - Outdoor Fools Day
Location: Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center
Time: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Cost: Free with admission to the center
Details: Learn outdoor skills and get hands-on experience in a variety of areas-camping, fishing, birding, hunting, and boating. Representatives of various divisions of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, outdoor businesses and conservation organizations will be on hand to help you get ready to see it’s true: Lifes Better Outside.
For More Information: 903-676-BASS.
MAY 3 - Cinco De Mayo
Location: Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center
Time: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Details: Celebrate the joint heritage of Texas and Mexico with food, games, music and more.
For More Information: 903-676-BASS.
JUNE 7 - Free Fishing Day
Location: Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center
Time: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Cost: Regular admission to the Center
Details: Celebrate the start of National Fishing Week with free fishing at TFFC.
For More Information: 903-676-BASS.
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
-----------------------------------------------------------
CARROLLTON, TX
APRIL 19 -Project WILD Workshop
Location: Coppell ISD Vonita White Adminstration Building
200 S. Denton Tap Rd
Time: 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Details: Learn how to teach young people about terrestrial and aquatic wildlife and ecosystems using fun, hands-on educational activities. During the six-hour training workshop participants will sample activities and receive a curriculum and activity guide. Activities are adaptable for all grade levels, integrated with core subject curricula and aligned to the TEKS and TAKS. Teachers, informal educators and youth group leaders may take the training. Bring a sack lunch.
Preregistration required
Call to Register: Linda Cook, lcook@coppellisd.com or (214) 471-7031.
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
-----------------------------------------------------------
CEDAR HILL, TX
APRIL 5 - 7th Annual Cedar Hill Expo
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Details: Enjoy a fun-filled day in which you can participate in many of the programs we offer. Some of the events include reptile programs, bass casting for kids, a wildflower walk, archery, and kayaking. Game wardens will also be available throughout the day to answer questions regarding TPWD regulations. The Cedar Hill Cartwrights Vintage Baseball Club will be holding a vintage baseball tournament and club sign-up. Accessible for the mobility and visually impaired.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232.
APRIL 19 - Reptiles Our Scaly-Skinned Friends
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 7 p.m. - 8 p.m..
Details: Hear about the reptiles found in the area and look and feel some live ones, too. Accessible for the mobility impaired.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232.
APRIL 19, 26 - Blooms of Spring Wildflower Walk
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 9:30 - 10:30 .a.m.; April 26 - 2 - 3 p.m.
Details: Take a leisurely walk and hear about the wildflowers of the native prairie grasslands and the stories behind them. Bring insect repellent.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232
APRIL 26 - Penn Farm Tour
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 2 - 3:30 p.m.
Details: Learn what life on the farm was like for the Penn family from the 1850s to the 1950s on this tour.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232.
MAY 3 - Mammals - Our Fuzzy, Furry Friends
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 3 p.m. - 4 p.m..
Details: Learn about the different mammals at the park as we share different stories about the animals, have skins and skulls to see and touch and maybe even learn a song or two to help us remember our animal friends. Accessible for the mobility impaired.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232.
MAY 3, 10, 31 - Blooms of Spring Wildflower Walk
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 2p.m. - 3p.m.
Details: Take a leisurely walk and hear about the wildflowers of the native prairie grasslands and the stories behind them. Bring insect repellent.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232
MAY 10, 31 - Blooms of Spring Wildflower Walk
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.
Details: Take a leisurely walk and hear about the wildflowers of the native prairie grasslands and the stories behind them. Bring insect repellent.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232
MAY 17 - 7th Annual Youth Carp Fishing Event
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 9 a.m. - Noon
Details: Test your fishing skills fishing for golden carp with the Carp Anglers Group. Enjoy the morning learning a new skill and enjoying a boat ride with one of our game wardens. Some fishing tackle is available for use or bring your own equipment. Bait will be provided.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232
MAY 23 - Bats - Friend or Foe?
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 7p.m. - 8p.m.
Details: Discover the importance of the bats found in the area. Find out about their behavior, communication and just how useful they are. Accessible for the mobility impaired.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232
MAY 24 - Reptiles Our Scaly-Skinned Friends
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 7 p.m. - 8 p.m..
Details: Hear about the reptiles found in the area and look and feel some live ones, too. Accessible for the mobility impaired.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232.
MAY 24, 31 - Penn Farm Tour
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: Call to confirm time
Details: Learn what life on the farm was like for the Penn family from the 1850s to the 1950s on this tour.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232.
JUNE 5, 28 - Reptiles Our Scaly-Skinned Friends
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: June 5: 3-4p.m.; June 28: 7-8p.m.
Details: Hear about the reptiles found in the area and look and feel some live ones, too. Accessible for the mobility impaired.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232.
JUNE 7 - Wal-Mart Kids All-American Fishing Derby
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 10 am. - 2 p.m.
Details: Test your fishing skills. Casting, reeling and hitting the target are all part of the fun. Lots of door prizes will be given away at the end of the event. Food and drinks are available for purchase.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232.
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
-----------------------------------------------------------
DALLAS, TX
APRIL 12 --- Project WILD Workshop
Location: Dallas Zoo, 650 South R. L. Thornton Freeway
Time: 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m..
Cost: $5
Details: Learn how to teach young people about ecology and wildlife using fun, hands-on educational activities. During the six-hour training workshop participants will sample activities and receive a curriculum and activity guide. Activities are adaptable for all grade levels, integrated with core subject curricula and aligned to the TEKS. Teachers, informal educators and youth group leaders may take the training.
Preregistration required.
To Register: Contact Allison Milstead at allison.milstead@dallascityhall.com or (214) 670-8957
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
-----------------------------------------------------------
DENTON, TX
APRIL 12 --- Venomous Snakes of Texas - Myth vs. Truth
Location: Eisenhower State Park
Time: None given
Call: 903-465-1956
Details: Identify the myths and examine the truth about venomous snakes of Texas and learn the treatment for snakebites. Accessible for the mobility, visually, and hearing-impaired.
APRIL 19 --- Basic Angler Education Class
Location: Eisenhower State Park
Time: 8:30 a.m. - Noon
Call: 903-465-1956
Details: Fishing is FUN! Enjoy this hand-on
APRIL 19 --- Slide Show
Location: Eisenhower State Park
Time: Begins at dusk. Lasts 45 minutes.
Call: 903-465-1956
Details: Come to the amphitheater and see the variety of animals that live in the park and fish that inhabit Lake Texoma at this slide show. Accessible for the mobility, visually and hearing impaired.
MAY 3 --- 4-H Kids Fishing Derby
Location: Eisenhower State Park
Time: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Call: 903-465-1956
Details: Come and fish beautiful Lake Texoma with the experts for fun, awards and prizes. This is an great way for families to take kids fishing for free with everything provided, including lots of help from expert anglers. Tackle available or bring your own. Accessible for the mobility impaired. Fishing 8 a.m.-noon, prizes and activities noon-2 p.m.
MAY 10 --- Venomous Snakes of Texas: Myth vs. Truth
Location: Eisenhower State Park
Time: This 45 minute program begins at dusk.
Call: 903-465-1956
Details: Identify the myths and examine the truth about venomous snakes of Texas and learn the treatment for snakebites. Accessible for the mobility, visually and hearing impaired. Forty-five minute program begins at dusk at the amphitheater.
MAY 17 --- Slide Show
Location: Eisenhower State Park
Time: Begins at dusk. Lasts 45 minutes.
Call: 903-465-1956
Details: Come to the amphitheater and see the variety of animals that live in the park and fish that inhabit Lake Texoma at this slide show. Accessible for the mobility, visually and hearing impaired.
JUNE 7 --- 4-H Kids Fishing Derby
Location: Eisenhower State Park
Time: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Call: 903-465-1956
Details: Come and fish beautiful Lake Texoma with the experts for fun, awards and prizes. This is an great way for families to take kids fishing for free with everything provided, including lots of help from expert anglers. Tackle available or bring your own. Accessible for the mobility impaired. Fishing 8 a.m.-noon, prizes and activities noon-2 p.m.
JUNE 14 --- Venomous Snakes of Texas: Myth vs. Truth
Location: Eisenhower State Park
Time: This 45 minute program begins at dusk.
Call: 903-465-1956
Details: Identify the myths and examine the truth about venomous snakes of Texas and learn the treatment for snakebites. Accessible for the mobility, visually and hearing impaired. Forty-five minute program begins at dusk at the amphitheater.
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
-----------------------------------------------------------
EUSTACE, TX (Henderson/Van Zandt Counties)
APRIL 5 - Stargazing
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 8:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Call: 903-425-2332.
Details: Come explore the night sky and make your own star wheel. Meet at overflow camping parking lot at dark. Accessible for the hearing impaired.
APRIL 12 - Campfire Building
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 8 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Call: 903-425-2332.
Details: Campfires are an enjoyable part of camping, but can be difficult to get started especially when weather is a factor. Here is a chance to learn firebuilding skills using safe firestarters that can be made at home and make your camping experience enjoyable. Accessible for the mobility and hearing impaired.
APRIL 12, 26 - Interpretive Canoe Tour
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 9:30 - Noon
Fee: $6 per person; Free for children 4 and under
Call: 903-425-2332.
Details: Canoe down Purtis Creek and through a natural marsh reservoir. See active beaver dams and native wildlife in their natural habitat. Accessible for the hearing impaired.
APRIL 19 - Full Moon Hike
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 8p.m. - 9p.m.
Fee: $6 per person; Free for children 4 and under
Call: 903-425-2332.
Details: Come enjoy a leisurely hike in the moonlight and learn about some of the nocturnal animals that visit the park. Hike is about 1.5 miles. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, trail may be wet, bring flashlight and water. Small children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at trailhead parking lot. Accessible for the mobility and hearing impaired.
APRIL 20 - Earth Day Lake Cleanup
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: Noon - 4 p.m.
Call: 903-425-2332.
Details: Help clean up trash on the lake and along the shoreline. Canoes provided or bring your own boat. Open to all ages; children must be accompanied by parent. Accessible for the hearing impaired.
APRIL 26 - Purtis Creek Critters
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 8p.m. - 9p.m.
Call: 903-425-2332.
Details: Learn about the animals that frequent the park and how to identify the tracks they leave behind. We will make casts of tracks from molds. Accessible for the mobility and hearing impaired.
MAY 3 - Stargazing
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 8:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Call: 903-425-2332.
Details: Come explore the night sky and make your own star wheel. Meet at overflow camping parking lot at dark. Accessible for the hearing impaired.
MAY 4 - Lakeside Cleanup
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: Noon - 4 p.m.
Call: 903-425-2332.
Details: Help clean up trash on the lake and along the shoreline. Canoes provided or bring your own boat. Open to all ages; children must be accompanied by parent. Accessible for the hearing impaired.
MAY 10 - Nature Hike
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Call: 903-425-2332.
Details: Take a guided hike along the nature trail and learn about the flora and fauna of the park. The hike is just over a mile. Accessible for the hearing impaired.
MAY 10, 24 - Interpretive Canoe Tour
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 9:30 - Noon
Fee: $6 per person; Free for children 4 and under
Call: 903
Home Educators Alliance for Resources and Training of Texas, Inc.
APRIL 2008 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 newsletter 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.
We also have a “featured articles” section. We hope that you will find the articles that we will include to be informative, encouraging, and full of wisdom. If you or anyone in your group would like to submit articles, or have suggestions for future article topics, please contact us at info@heartoftex.org. We would love to hear from you!
Thanks so much!
www.HEARTofTex.org
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Home Educators Alliance for Resources and Training of Texas, Inc., (HEART of Texas) is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation dedicated to serving the home schooling support groups, leaders and families in our regional service area. Our mission is to provide leadership, training, resources and support within the home school community through communications, networking activities, and events directed at home school support groups, leaders, 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.
-----------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------
~~ April Highlights~~
APRIL 3 & 8
BOY SCOUTS TO HOST TWO DAY HOMESCHOOL EVENT
AT LOCATIONS ACROSS NORTH TEXAS
The Longhorn Council of the Boy Scouts of America, which covers 23 counties in North Texas, is hosting two-day open houses on April 3 and 8th at 3:00 p.m. for home school families interested in scouting. The event will take place in 18 locations throughout the North Texas area.
Locations: Families can visit one of 18 locations to learn more about the Boy Scouts and the different scouting options available. Families will be able to ask questions, meet local scouts, and register for the type of scouting that best suits their needs.
For Listing of Locations: Click Here
Or visit: www.heartoftex.org and click the tab labeled “Scouts.”
View Newsletter Headers
-----------------------------------------------------------
APRIL 8
BOYS HIGH SCHOOL SOCCER
PARENT/PLAYER INFORMATION MEETING
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Central Market
190 & Coit (Northeast Corner)
Enter at the stairs in front of the Café entrance
Community Room is reserved for HSAA!
Meeting will include:
Meeting the coach(s)
Uniform selection
Practice days & times
Eligibility requirements
Schedule
Cost
& other HSAA guidelines
For More Information about HSAA: www.hsaa.org
View Newsletter Headers
-----------------------------------------------------------
APRIL 8
ACADEMIC ACCOMMODATIONS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
Time: 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Location: Collin College Spring Creek Campus Conference Center 2800 E. Spring Creek Parkway, Plano
To Register: destinationcollege@cccd.edu or 972-377-1772
This free workshop will provide students, parents, and educators with information to help their students’ successfully transition into the college setting, whether it be a university or a community college. Learn more about the required current documentation guidelines and the key differences between secondary 504 modification and post-secondary accommodations. Find out about the resources and support programs that are available to students with special needs. Come early - exhibits open at 6:00 PM!
View Newsletter Headers
-----------------------------------------------------------
APRIL 11
THSC AWARDS BANQUET APRIL 11
APRIL 11 - THSC 13th Annual Awards Banquet
Keynote Speaker: Senator Dan Patrick
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Location: Omni Houston Hotel
Four Riverway, Houston, Texas
To Register: events@thsc.org or 806-744-4441
Or download registration form at http://www.thsc.org/banquet/default.asp
Attire: Dressy
Tickets: Individual tickets may be obtained while space is available for a suggested donation of $45 per ticket. Simply complete and remit the registration form.
Sponsorships:
Sponsors of banquet tables, which include seating for ten, will receive
special recognition on the banquet program.
Bronze ($500 donation)
Silver ($1000 donation) - two VIP reception tickets
Gold ($2500 donation) - four VIP reception tickets
Diamond ($5000 donation) - six VIP reception tickets
Platinum ($10,000) - ten VIP reception tickets
Details: Come for an elegant dinner and an evening honoring the achievements of home schoolers and those who have supported home schooling in Texas. Join radio talk show host, author, and senator, Dan Patrick, THSC President Tim Lambert , top Good Citizenship award winners, and many other home school notables. In conjunction with the dinner, there will be a silent auction. Check the link below for the most current list of auction items.
For More Information and Details, Including Hotel Accommodations: http://www.thsc.org/banquet/default.asp
View Newsletter Headers
-----------------------------------------------------------
APRIL 11
HOME SCHOOL ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION VOLLEYBALL TRYOUTS
FOR HIGH SCHOOL AND MIDDLE SCHOOL
The Home School Athletic Association is a Christian-based organization providing athletics for
homeschoolers through volunteer home school parent. They provide various programs including football, baseball, volleyball, soccer, and basketball for high school and middle school home schoolers.
APRIL 4 (Warm Up)
Time: 12 p.m. - 2 p.m. (high school)
2 p.m. - 4 p.m. (middle school)
APRIL 11 (Official Try-Out)
Time: 12 p.m. - 2 p.m. (high school)
2 p.m. - 4 p.m. (middle school)
Location: Believers Chapel
6420 Churchill Way
Dallas, TX 75230
To Participate:
You must bring a Tryout Form and Medical Release Form with you to tryouts.
Download both forms at: http://www.hsaa.org/VB_Page.htm
Cost: $15 Per Player Tryout Fee
Contact:
High Schoolers contact Deanna Morales 972-661-2479 or dhmorales@sbcglobal.net
Middle Schoolers contact Susan Bryant at 972-754-1553 or cs.bryant@verizon.net
View Newsletter Headers
-----------------------------------------------------------
APRIL 14 & 24
HOMESCHOOL PROGRAMS AT MCKINNEY MEMORIAL PUBLIC LIBRARY
APRIL 24 --- Getting to Know Your Library
Please choose one date to attend.
Grades: K-3rd
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
Other Programs for Home Schoolers:
APRIL 14 --- Research Gathering Skills
Please choose one date to attend.
Grades: 5th - 8th
Time: 3:15 p.m.
Learn basic research skills and become familiar with the library’s many
resources.
Conference Room (upstairs)
Registration Required
Other Home School Programs:
APRIL 29 - Using the Internet
Please choose one date to attend.
Grades: 6th and up
Time: 3:15 p.m.
Conference Room (upstairs)
Learn how to search the internet and how to evaluate internet sites to get reliable and quality information.
Registration Required
Location: 101 E. Hunt Street
McKinney, TX 75069
972-547-READ
To Register or For More Information: Wendy Turner - wturner@mckinneytexas.org
View Newsletter Headers
-----------------------------------------------------------
APRIL 12
DFW METROPLEX US SERVICE ACADEMIES DAY & FORUM
Time: 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Location: Tarrant County College Northeast, Student Center
828 Harwood Road
Hurst, TX 76054
Cost: FREE and open to the public
Contact: Robin Vaughan, Office of Congressman Michael Burgess at 972-434-9700 or
Robin.vaughan@mail.house.gov
Details: The U.S. Service Academies Forum is jointly sponsored by Congressman Michael Burgess, as well as Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison and Senator John Cornyn, Congressman Sam Johnson, Congressman Joe Barton, Congresswoman Kay Granger, Congressman Kenny Marchant, and Congressman Pete Sessions.
This informational forum provides interested students grades eight through twelve an opportunity to learn more about our nation's service academies, requirements for admission and the selection process.
Representatives from congressional offices and all five academies (U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and U.S. Air Force Academy) as well as cadets and midshipmen will be on hand to talk with North Texas students, parents and educators on a one to one basis about the possibilities associated with attending these premier educational institutions and the sorts of careers they generate. For those interested in additional options, ROTC representatives will also be present to assist students with ROTC scholarship information.
View Newsletter Headers
-----------------------------------------------------------
APRIL 12
REGISTRATION ENDS FOR HOMESCHOOL PROMENADE IN WACO
MAY 3 - A Mid Summer Night’s Dream Homeschool Promenade
Time: 6:30 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.
Location: The Waco Convention Center
100 Washington Avenue in Downtown Waco
As you enter the convention Center, go up the stairs and to your left will be the Brazos Room. There will be signs showing you where to park.
Who: The Homeschool Ball is open to upper high school students and a guest.
The student must be 15 years old before September 1, 2007, and a sophomore, junior or senior. All homeschool graduates are welcome to attend as Alumni.
Registration:
March 27-April 12: $59 student; $35 parent or alumni
(At least one parent or guardian must accompany each student registered)
Details: Experience an evening that will be remembered forever. A night full of fun: a formal dinner, dancing, fellowship with friends, and memories that will last a lifetime. Much of the dancing will be Civil War Era and other historical dancing.
At the event, there will an experienced photographer available. They will have reasonably priced packages available for purchase if you desire. This will be mailed out with your registration information and tickets.
For More Information and Details: Contact Denise Bagby at 254-399-9193
Or audienceof1-4him@sbcglobal.net
View Newsletter Headers
-----------------------------------------------------------
APRIL 19
MEET THE DOOLITTLE TOKYO RAIDERS
Experience LIVING HISTORY!!
A free presentation for the public with members of the famous 1942 surprise raid on Tokyo.
McDermott Library at The University of Texas at Dallas believes it is important to make you aware that this rare opportunity is available on
Time: 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.
Location: UT Dallas Conference Center
Richardson, TX
Who: Everyone is welcome, but the UTD auditorium seats only 500.
Cost: FREE and open to the public. Parking is also free.
Details: Up to nine of the living airmen who flew on the famous and perilous mission led by Jimmy Doolittle over Tokyo on April 18, 1942, will be at UTD's Conference Center for a free, public presentation.
The USAF will have the famous 80 goblets from the Air Force Museum that once were kept at the Air Force Academy.
The program will include:
A history presentation by Doolittle Tokyo Raiders historian C.V. Glines,
A panel discussion and Q&A with the Raiders
Free autograph and book signing
Presentations of Texas flags flown over the Capital in Austin by State Rep. Fred Hill Raiders books for sale by the UTD Bookstore
Special U.S. Postal Service date cancel to commemorate the day.
Mayoral Proclamation from the City of Richardson
The Raiders are in the Dallas area during the week for their 66th Anniversary Reunion.
For More Information: 972-883-2570 or 972-883-4951
View Newsletter Headers
-----------------------------------------------------------
APRIL 22
REENACTMENT OF THE OKLAHOMA LAND RUN
APRIL 22
Location: Heights Park in Richardson
711 W. Arapaho Road
at the corner of Floyd and Arapaho
To Participate: Just show up! Come dressed in "89'er" clothes if you want.
Time: The "gunshot", signifying the start of the race, will go off at 3:05p.m.
Come early to be ready. It takes about 1/2 an hour to run & officially claim land and the rest of the time is spent talking or buying and selling. You can come late as there is usually land to claim & certainly you can still buy & sell!
Volunteers Needed!!! Please volunteer (teen or adult) to help by coming early to pound stakes or man the land office right after the run.
For More Information: Contact Cathy Allen at 972-442- 3006 or 972-742-5215
Or by email at allenadvertising@verizon.net.
For More Details Click Here
View Newsletter Headers
-----------------------------------------------------------
APRIL
CONGRESSIONAL ART COMPETITION
FOR NORTH TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
"An Artistic Discovery" is the annual nationwide Congressional High School Art Competition initiated by Members of the U.S. House of Representatives. Each Congressional District may host its own competition, and since the competition was first launched in 1982, hundreds of thousands of students have participated in over 5000 locally conducted contests.
This spring, several North Texas Congressional offices will hold contests. The winning student from each district will have his or her artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol complex for one year! In addition, the winners and their two guests are invited to the nation's capital in the summer to attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony honoring the winning artists from across the country and opening the 2008 "An Artistic Discovery" exhibition. Thousands of people visiting the nation's capitol, as well as Members of Congress and their staffs, are able to walk through the exhibit daily, viewing artwork from Congressional districts throughout the country-each piece highlighted with the name of the work and student artist.
Interested students and teachers should contact their congressional office ASAP for more information.
| Dist. | Member | Contact | Phone | Deadline |
| TX-3 | Rep. Sam Johnson | Deanna Kuykendall
|
972-470-0892 | March 12 |
| TX-4 | Rep. Ralph Hall | Natalie Raulston
|
972-771-9118 | March 12 |
| TX-5 | Rep. Jeb Hensarling | Sarah Rozier
|
214-349-9996 | March 28 |
| TX-12 | Rep. Kay Granger | Marcia Etie
|
817-338-0909 | April 25 |
| TX-24 | Rep. Kenny Marchant | Amanda Post
|
972-556-0162 | April 11 |
| TX-26 | Rep. Michael Burgess | Joan Self
|
972-434-9700 | April 7 |
| TX-30 | Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson | Peter Osborne
|
214-922-8885 | April 24 |
View Newsletter Headers
-----------------------------------------------------------
APRIL
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
~~What's Inside This Issue ~~
(Click on the links below)
FEATURED ARTICLES
Book Review: The Summer of Saint Nick Reviewed by Anne Gebhart
Boy Scouts of America, Longhorn Council, to Host a Two-Day, Multi-County Event for Home Schoolers by Jason Beuscher
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
LIBRARY PROGRAMS
- Library Programs at North Texas Libraries --- North Texas --- December
Bedford Public Library
Fort Worth Public Library
Hurst Public Library
McKinney Memorial Public Library
Tyler Public Library
CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS
- BEST Robotics 2008 Preview: Just Plane Crazy! --- Texas Best
- Texas State Fish-Art Contests --- Entries Due March 31, 2008
- National Engineers Week --- Future City Competition
- Student Art Contest Sponsored by Trails Country Center for the Arts --- April 18 & 19 Eligible Counties: Wood, Rains, Franklin, Hopkins, Winnsboro, Camp, Titus
- National Congressional Art Competition --- Districts 3, 4, 5, 12, 24, 26, 30
CIVICS/GOOD CITIZENSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
- City of Fort Worth Youth Advisory Board --- Fort Worth
- City of North Richland Hills Teen Court --- North Richland Hills
- Texas Home School Coalition Good Citizenship Award Program --- State-wide
CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE ANNOUNCEMENTS
- US Services Academies Forum --- Hurst --- April 12
- National Congressional Art Competition --- Districts 3, 4, 5, 12, 24, 26, 30
HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
- THEO Home School Classes -- Plano
- Faith Christian Academy --- McKinney
- Homeschoolers East Co-Op Classes --- East Dallas
- Tarrant County College --- High School Math Classes
BOOK SALES & HOME SCHOOL BOOK STORES
Arlington - April 2-6
Tyler - April 3-5
Wichita Falls - April 5
Grand Prairie - April 9-13
Crowley - April 11-12
Dallas - April 11-13
Denton - April 12
White Settlement - April 12
Cedar Park - April 12-14
Sherman - April 19
Haltom City - April 24-26
Burleson - April 25-26
Rockwall - April 25-26
Fort Worth - April 25-27
Southlake - April 25-27
Granbury - April 26-27
- Christian Educators Resource Center -- Rowlett
- Creative Arts in Action --- Watauga --- Spring Clearance Sale in April
- Home Educators Resource --- Lewisville
- RHSA Used Book Sale --- Richardson --- April 10
NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
- Dallas Arboretum - Dallas
- Heritage Farmstead Museum --- Plano
- Texas Parks and Wildlife Programs--- State Parks in North Texas
- Homeschool Family Camp at Snow Mountain Ranch --- Colorado --- August 17-22
PERFORMING ARTS
Little Red Riding Hood --- April 4-20
- Performances at CATS --- Arlington
Disney’s Beauty & the Beast - May 2-11
- Cottage Theater - Creative Arts in Action --- Watauga
Smoke on the Mountain (3) Homecoming --- March 14 - April 12
The Foreigner - April 25 - May 17
Standin’ Tall With Dependability (Children’s Theater) --- March 17 - April 11
The Unhappy Princess (Children’s Theater) --- April 28 - May 16
- Performances at Bass Performance Hall --- Fort Worth
- Dallas Children’s Theater --- Dallas
Eat (It’s Not About Food) --- April 11 - May 11
- Plano Children’s Theater --- Plano
- Amon Carter Museum Exhibits - Fort Worth
- Dallas Museum of Art Exhibit --- Dallas
- Kimball Art Museum Exhibit --- Fort Worth
- Museum of Nature & Science --- Dallas
- Museum of Science & History --- Fort Worth
IMAX/OMNI THEATERS
- Shows at the Dallas Imax Theatre -- Museum of Science and Nature
- Shows at the Fort Worth Omni Theater --- Fort Worth Museum of Science & History
HISTORICAL PROGRAMS
- Programs at Log Cabin Village --- Fort Worth
- Dallas Heritage Village --- Dallas
HOME SCHOOL SPORTS/PE PROGRAMS
- Maritime Merry Time Tuesdays (Open Homeschool Swim) --- The Colony Aquatic Park
- Dallas Thunder Homeschool Basketball Organization --- Registration Open
Volleyball Tryouts March 28 & April 4
Boys High School Soccer Info Meeting April 8
- Hulcy Home School PE Classes --- Richardson (Taught by Rhett Hulcy)
- 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
- Pop-In Playtime --- Pump It Up of Grapevine --- Grapevine
- Tae Kwondo for Home Schoolers --- Plano
SUPPORT GROUPS
- Smoothing the Way Meetings in North Texas --- March/April
Athens/Tyler Area - April 15
Denton - April 3
North Richland Hills - April 7
Plano - March 25
Sulphur Springs - April 15
- Keller 4H Club Meetings-Keller
- Park Day Drama Club ---- Plano
COLLEGE PREP
- PSAT Prep Classes with Jean Burk --- Various Locations Across North Texas
- Academic Accommodations for College Students with Special Needs Seminar - Plano --- April 8
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
- Volunteer Opportunities Available for Home School Students in 21 Counties --- American Cancer Society
OTHER EVENTS BY DATE
- 8-Week SAT Prep Course at Creative Arts in Action ---- Watauga
- PBS Masterpiece Theater Presents The Complete Jane Austen --- Through April 3
- Boy Scouts to Host Two-Day Home School Event --- 18 North Texas Locations --- April 3 & 8th
- Hella Shrine Circus at Reunion Arena --- Dallas --- April 4
- Park Cities Presbyterian Church 2008 Arts Festival --- Dallas --- April 5-13
- Texas Home School Coalition Awards Banquet --- Houston --- April 11
- DFW Metroplex US Service Academies Day --- April 12
- A Maiden’s Quest: Young Ladies Retreat --- Dallas --- April 18 & 19
- Experience Living History: Meet the Doolittle Tokyo Raiders! --- Richardson --- April 19
- Home School Leader Meeting at THEO --- Plano --- April 21
- Reenactment of Oklahoma Land Run - April 22
- Hillsdale College President Larry Arnn to Speak at Hillsdale Event--- Dallas --- April 24
- Home School Career Day & Luncheon --- Irving --- April 25
- “Support Your Homeschooling Moms Night” at Fellowship Church --- Grapevine --- April 24
- Teen Pact Leadership School Coming to Texas--- Registration Open --- April 21-25
- Christian Home School Prom --- Dallas, TX --- April 26
- Home School Daze at Hawaiian Falls --- The Colony --- May 3
- Home School Promenade --- Waco --- May 3 (Registration Open)
- 2008 Home School Day at Rangers Ballpark --- Arlington --- May 9
- Home School Bookfair at Arlington Convention Center --- Arlington --- May 9 & 10
- Face to Face with Greatness: A Thomas Jefferson Education Seminar --- Hurst --- June 6-7
- Aviation Career Education “ACE” Academy --- DFW Airport --- June 10 (Register by April 21)
-----------------------------------------------------------
FEATURED ARTICLE
Book Review: The Summer of Saint Nick
Reviewed by Anne Gebhart
Home school graduate Josh Burk’s score on the PSAT earned him status as a National Merit Scholar and also earned him a free college education at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. He later scored a 1540 on the SAT, out of a possible 1600.
While at college, Josh began brainstorming ways he could help other students improve their standardized test scores to increase their chances of earning scholarships. He had a “novel” idea: to write a book incorporating SAT-level words throughout the story.
The result was The Summer of Saint Nick, the first book in his VocabCafe series.
The Summer of Saint Nick is a 155-page novella incorporating 300 vocabulary words, all used in context within the framework of the storyline. While readers can usually deduce the meanings of the words as they read, the definitions and pronunciations for each word are printed at the bottom of the page for easy reference and reinforcement. At the end of each chapter is a review page, featuring the words used within that section.
Besides being an excellent tool to enhance vocabulary and language development, pre-teens and teens will find the story engaging. Best of all, the story steers clear of offensive language and unsavory themes.
The story centers on the life of Nick Franklin, a high school student who is an academic success, but an utter failure when it comes to making friends. His studious and courteous nature, coupled with his “geeky” appearance, make him the target of bullies and prevent him from getting the attention of the girl he secretly admires, who also happens to be the most popular girl in school.
Nick’s desire to become a lawyer motivates him to spend much of his free time at an old farmhouse on the outskirts of town, where he reads law books and dreams of becoming a big-shot city lawyer with a Ferrari, fancy clothes, and other material things that only the wealthy can afford.
During summer break, Nick discovers a small fortune and believes that all of his troubles are over. With new clothes, a new Ferrari, a new house, and all the toys money can buy, he is finally on his way to realizing his dreams and getting his true love to fall head over heels for him.
The windfall promises to hold the key to the lifestyle of his dreams and the freedom he desires...until he discovers freedom of another kind and realizes that worldly riches may not be the most important thing in life.
To learn more about The Summer of Saint Nick by Josh Burk, or to purchase your own copy of the book, go to: http://www.vocabcafe.com
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
FEATURED ARTICLE
Boy Scouts to Host a Two-Day, Multi-County Event for Home Schoolers
Written by Jason Beuscher
The Boy Scouts of America loves home-schoolers, and is planning a special event for home school families in April!
The Longhorn Council of the Boy Scouts of America, which covers 23 counties in North Texas, is hosting two-day information meetings on April 3 and 8th at 3:00 p.m. for home school families interested in scouting. The event will take place in 18 locations throughout the North Texas area.
Families can visit one of 18 locations to learn more about the Boy Scouts and the different scouting options available. Families will be able to ask questions, meet local scouts, and register for the type of scouting that best suits their needs.
The Boy Scouts offer several different scouting options, depending on the needs of your family:
Lone Scouts - Home school families are eligible to register boys age 7 and up for this program. Lone Scouts is a program that allows a boy to work individually with a parent or counselor to achieve the scouting requirements in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts.
Cub Scouts - Families may register boys ages 7-10 to join an existing Cub Scout pack that is close to their residence. Boys are separated by age/grade and learn the skills and values of Cub Scouting along with other boys in their neighborhood. Group outings, camping experiences, and making new friends with similar morals and values is a benefit to this program. At the event, parents will be given the contact information for these groups to help them find a pack near them.
Boy Scouts - Families may register boys ages 11 and up to join an existing Boy Scout Troop that is close to their residence. Boy Scouts is a boy-run program advised by a team of adults. The boys elect leaders from their group to act in leadership positions for the troop. The troop is broken down into patrols where a patrol leader is elected. The boys work together to learn the skills and values of Scouting and then put them to use on outings and campouts.
Forming a new Cub Scout Pack or Boy Scout Troop - Home school support groups will have the opportunity to form a Pack or Troop with their families that are interested in scouting. More information about this option will be provided at the meetings.
Venturing - This program is for boys and girls 14 to 20 to learn real world experiences as a group. The group takes real scenarios and like “how to buy a car” and figures out how it really works.
A list of the current locations and dates is located at: www.heartoftex.org under
“Scouts.”
General scouting information is available at www.longhorncouncil.com .
Jason Beuscher is the district director of the Longhorn Council of the Boy Scouts of America. His district includes Grapevine, Southlake, Colleyville, Trophy Club, Roanoke, and the HEB area. You may contact him at bsalakeview@aol.com or by calling him at 817-231-8533.
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------
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
THURSDAYS --- Peapods Story Time
(for babies 2 years and under and their caregiver.)
Bonnie Finn Room
Registration is required for this program.
For More Information: Contact Kids Help Desk at 817-952-2373
March Themes:
4 - Dr. Seuss
11 - Looking for a Pot of Gold
18 - Hippety Hoppety
25 - Peep Peep
MONDAYS IN MARCH- Tony’s Computer Classes
Time: 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Library Board Room
This class is for the absolute beginner. It will provide a brief overview of exactly what a computer is and how it works with lots of hands-on-practice. No computer experience required.
No Registration is required for these free classes.
Contact: Tony New at 817-952-2342 or tnew@ci.bedford.tx.us
For More Information: Contact Jeanne Green at 817-952-2370
WEDNESDAYS IN MARCH--- Free Spanish Language Classes
Time: 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. (MORNING CLASS)
6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. (EVENING CLASS)
Location: Library Board Room
Ms. Bianca Zaya will introduce the basics of Spanish
No Registration is required for these free classes.
For More Information: Contact Jeanne Green at 817-952-2370 or jgreen@ci.bedford.tx.us
HELP PLAN THE NEW LIBRARY!
The Bedford Public Library will host a series of Focus Groups to get community input on the NEW Bedford Public Library. Your input is essential in order to design a library that meets the needs of the community. You are neither too old nor too young to have your voice heard!
FOCUS GROUP SCHEDULE:
APRIL 24 (Families)
Time: 10 a.m.
APRIL 26 (General Public)
Time: 12:30 p.m.
APRIL 26 (Teens)
Time: 3:00 p.m.
Focus Group Sessions last one hour. You can attend more than one session if it is of interest to you.
Location: Council Chambers
2000 Forest Ridge Drive
Bedford, TX 76021
For More Information: City Hall: 817-952-2100
Maria Redburn/Library Manager: 817-952-2332
Back to LIBRARY PROGRAMS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
FORT WORTH PUBLIC LIBRARY
FEBRUARY PROGRAMS
ALL FORT WORTH BRANCHES
African American Read In!
Location: All Fort Worth Library Locations
Details: Don’t Say Ain’t by Irene Smalls is the title to read for this event! Call your local library for details.
Teen Programs
E-mail: zz_lib_teenservices@fortworthgov.org for more information.
CENTRAL LIBRARY BRANCH
Location: 500 W. 3rd St
817-871-7701
APRIL 1 & 3 - Teen Job Workshop
Time: 4 p.m.
Details: Need a job? Don’t know where to start? Take this workshop and see how far you can go!
APRIL 1 - Anime Club
Time: 5 p.m.
Details: Join us for movies, anime, and a discussion.
APRIL 3 - 24 (THURSDAYS) - Home School Book Club
Time: 2 p.m.
Ages: Teens
Details: A weekly book club just for homeschooled teens!
APRIL 5 --- Teen Job Fair
Time: 12 p.m.
Details: Need a job? Get one at the job fair! Co-sponsored by Texas Workforce Solutions.
APRIL 7 - 28 (WEDNESDAYS) - Plugged In!
Time: 3:30 p.m.
Details: Join us for video games.
DIAMOND HILL/JARVIS
Location: NE 35th Street
817-624-7331
EAST BERRY LIBRARY
Location: 4300 E. Berry St.
817-536-1945
APRIL 3 & 17 - TV Watching Party
Time: 7 p.m.
EAST REGIONAL LIBRARY
Location: 6301 Bridge St.
817-871-6436
APRIL 7-21 (TUESDAYS) --- Plugged In!
Time: 6pm
2 p.m. on 19th & 21st
Details: We got a Wii, so come play!
APRIL 28 --- Gaming Tournament
Time: 6pm
Details: Come play. Registration is required.
MEADOWBROOK LIBRARY
Location: 2800 Stark St.
817-451-0916
APRIL 5-26 (Saturdays) --- Chess Game
Time: 11am
Details: Learn to play chess.
APRIL 1-29 (Tuesdays) --- Chess Academy & Club
Time: 4 p.m.
Details: Join to learn to play chess
NORTHSIDE LIBRARY
Location: 601 Park Street
817-626-8241
RIDGLEA LIBRARY
Location: 3628 Bernie Anderson Drive
817-737-6619
APRIL 5-26 (Saturdays) --- Chess Game
Time: 12 p.m.
Details: Learn to play chess.
RIVERSIDE LIBRARY:
Location: 2913 Yucca Avenue
817-838-6931
SHAMBLEE LIBRARY
Location: 959 East Rosedale St.
817-871-6621
APRIL 7-28 - Game Night
Time: 6 p.m.
Details: Join us for an evening of board, strategy, and card games
APRIL 2-30 (WEDNESDAYS) -- Chess Club
Time: 3 p.m.
Details: Learn to play chess
SOUTHWEST REGIONAL LIBRARY
4001 Library Ln.
817-782-9853
APRIL 4-18 - Plugged In!
Time: 4 p.m.
Details: Join us for DDR, Guitar Hero, and other games.
MARCH 29 - Gaming Tournament
Time: 4 p.m.
SUMMERGLEN LIBRARY
Location: 4205 Basswood Blvd.
817-232-0478
APRIL 5-26 (SATURDAYS) - Chess Club
Time: 2 p.m
Details: Learn to play chess.
APRIL 1 & 15 - Home School Book Club
Time: 1 p.m.
Details: Book club just for home schooled teens.
WEDGWOOD LIBRARY
Location: 3816 Kimberly Ln.
817-292-3368
APRIL 19 - “Knights of the Board” Chess Club
Time: 3 p.m.
Details: Knitting program for teens.
APRIL 12 --- Paint Your Tee Cafe
Time: 3 p.m.
Details: Bring a plain white or grey 100% cotton tee shirt that has been prewashed with no fabric softener and we will provide the paints, stencils, sponges, and brushes, for you to paint and decorate your tee shirt.
Back to LIBRARY PROGRAMS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
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)
APRIL 2 - Explore! Ice Worlds (Session One)
Time: 4 - 5:30 p.m.
APRIL 3 - Explore! Ice Worlds (Session Two
Time: 1 - 2:30 p.m.
Details for Explore Ice Worlds:
Hurst Public Library is officially participating in the testing of a new module for the Lunar and Planetary Institute!
What is it? Where is it? What does it do?
On Earth, in the Library, and in outer space, too!
Through fun, hands-on activities, investigate ice!
Try to attend all dates of the session you choose because the Lunar and
Planetary Institute selected Hurst Public Library as a test site for
this project, and they want your input!
For More Information: 817-788-7302.
APRIL 10 - The Shakespeare Man
Time: 7 p.m.
Robert Clover-Brown will bring Shakespeare to life through a vivid presentation providing insight to the Bard’s personal, business, and creative life. Other activities will allow patrons the chance to see how Shakespeare is still alive and well in our culture today. Come see what is to be or not to be! As well, we are having a Shakespeare Showdown--the deadline is April 2! This is a chance for young Thespians to show their stuff.
APRIL 17 - Free College at Your Fingertips by Jean Burk
Studies have proven that on average, a person with a college education makes TWICE the salary of an individual who only has a high school diploma. Find out how to help ensure your kids a future of financial success by making sure they have the opportunity to pursue a university degree, and standardized tests are the gateway to college entrance and amazing scholarships.
MAY 8 - 1050s Sock Hop
Freddy & the Falcons will rock the house 50s style. Come dressed to impress in your vintage 50s style and ready to dance, dance, dance---the best dressed and best dancers will be recognized.
ON EXHIBIT:
FOYER DISPLAY: Friends of Hurst Library Book Sale Preview
GALLERY WALL: Paintings by Emily Williams
HISTORICAL GALLERY: Exhibit from the Texas Cowboy 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.
Back to LIBRARY PROGRAMS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
McKINNEY MEMORIAL PUBLIC LIBRARY
Location: 101 E. Hunt Street
McKinney, TX 75069
972-547-READ
Contact: Wendy Turner - wturner@mckinneytexas.org
Home School Programs
APRIL 14 -Research Gathering Skills
Grades: 5th - 8th
Time: 3:15 p.m.
Learn basic research skills and become familiar with the library’s many
resources.
Conference Room (upstairs)
Registration Required
APRIL 24 --- Getting to Know Your Library
Grades: K-3rd
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
APRIL 29 --- Using the Internet
Grades: 6th and up
Time: 3:15 p.m.
Conference Room (upstairs)
Learn how to search the internet and how to evaluate internet sites to get reliable and quality information.
Registration Required
For More Information or To Register: Contact Wendy Turner at 972-547-7319 or wturner@mckinneytexas.org
Back to LIBRARY PROGRAMS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
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
APRIL 13 -19 --- National Library Week
Community celebrities visit the library to share their favorite books with children.
APRIL 14-17 - Preschool
Time: 10:30 a.m.
Location: Taylor Auditorium
For preschoolers and their families, as well as childcare groups. Groups must register.
APRIL 17 - Elementary - Afterschool Rules!
Time: 3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Location: Storyroom
For children in grades 1-5
-----------------------------------------------------------
Preschoolers DayCare StoryShare
MONDAYS & TUESDAYS
Time: 10:30 a.m. in the Storyroom
Friends share stories, songs, and books with childcare groups.
Please email or call to register
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
APRIL 3 - an evening of Victorian Parlour Poetry
FIRST THURSDAY OF EACH MONTH
Time: 6:00 p.m. in Taylor Auditorium
Reading classic plays aloud
Printed Page Players is a loose association of literary aficionados, theatre groupies, local actors, and anyone with an interest in literature and drama who gather monthly to read aloud classic plays-providing all the emotion and inflection of a full stage production without the props, costumes, or set-like listening to an old-fashioned radio play.
Texas Writers Network
APRIL 13 - Author Jodi Thomas visits and signs books
Time: 2:00 p.m.- 4:30 p.m. in Taylor Auditorium
The Writers’ Network (adults and teens) is a gathering of writers and aspiring writers who come together for mutual support, critique and networking. The event is free and no registration is required. The group will meet in the Taylor Auditorium at 2 p.m.
Club Read
APRIL 29 - The Red Tent by Anita Diamant
Time: 10 a.m.
East Texas Genealogical Society
APRIL 12 - Family History Seminar
Author Visit: Jodi Thomas
APRIL 13
Time: 2 p.m.
American Girl Reading Club
APRIL 19
Time: 10 a.m. - Noon
Ages: Girls 5-12 are welcome
Taylor Auditorium
Back to LIBRARY PROGRAMS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
2. BEST ROBOTICS 2008 PREVIEW: JUST PLANE CRAZY!
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 next year's competition!
Visit: http://www.bestinc.org/MVC/
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 2008 Product Data Guide included in your igus kit?
Download it here: www.igus.com/yesprogram/
ATTENTION FIRST TEAMS!
Due to the excited, enthusiastic, yet overwhelming number of requests from FIRST teams this season, igus must alter its policy regarding its product donation to teams. As of February 1, 2008, igus will only be able to donate products included in the original kit of FIRST parts to teams.
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
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
Back to CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
4. TEXAS STATE FISH-ART CONTEST
ENTRIES DUE MARCH 31, 2008
The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center is the official host for the Texas State-Fish Art Contest sponsored by Wildlife Forever. All Texas entries in the annual contest are to be sent to TFFC for judging. Winning Texas entries will be forwarded to Wildlife Forever to compete for national best of show and art of conservation stamp honors.
Who Can Participate: All Texas students in grades 4 through 12.
Categories: State-Fish Art Contest entries are judged in three categories: grades 4-6, grades 7-9 and grades 10-12. One Texas winner from each category is selected each year.
Winners are invited to attend the national awards ceremony at Minnesota's Mall of America each summer. Winning designs will be featured on the official State-Fish Art website. One piece of artwork in each grade category will be selected as the national best of show winner, and one entry will be chosen as the annual art of conservation stamp award and be featured on Wildlife Forever's conservation stamp for the coming year. Entries must be postmarked by March 31 each year and must comply with all rules and regulations. An official entry form must accompany all entries.
How to Enter: Students must create an illustration of the Texas state fish or one of the other state fishes and write a composition on its behavior, habitat and conservation. Texas students are encouraged, but not required, to depict the Texas state fish, the Guadalupe bass. Texas entries are judged only against other Texas entries no matter what fish is depicted.
About the Contest: The State-Fish Art Contest is part of a conservation education program designed to spark the imaginations of students while providing valuable lessons about fish and the importance of conserving Texas' aquatic resources. We also offer you the choice to use our free lesson plan.
For Rules:
www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/visitorcenters/tffc/education/fish_art/rules.phtml
For More Information: http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/visitorcenters/tffc/education/fish_art/
Back to CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
5. NORTH TEXAS REGIONAL NATIONAL ENGINEERS WEEK FUTURE CITY COMPETITION FOR 7-8TH GRADERS
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***.
For More Information: Contact Jean Eason at j.eason@ieee.org
or visit www.dfwfuturecity.org
Back to CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
6. STUDENT ART CONTEST
Sponsored by Trails Country Centre for the Arts
ATTN: Homeschool groups and families in Wood, Rains, Franklin, Hopkins, Winnsboro, Camp, Titus Counties!
TCCA is offering a special Student Art Contest (SAC) for students in your area!
APRIL 18 & 19 - Entry Take-In
APRL 21-24 - Judging
APRIL 25, 26, 28 - Notification of Winners
MAY 3 - Performances
MAY 2-31 - Exhibits
Theme: “If I Ruled the World”
Details: An Art Centre’s responsibility is to represent all artists, young and old & TCCA is pleased to initiate this program, which is possibly the first of its kind in our immediate area in east Texas. TCCA recognizes the incredible talent in our children and youth and is proud to offer this avenue of encouragement, support, and success.
The Student Art Contest was designed to encourage and reward students who show talent in the areas of Dance Choreography, Film/Video, Literature & Drama, Musical Composition, Photography and Visual Arts, including 3-D artwork. The theme, “If I Ruled the World”, is the inspiration for creativity and work may be created at home or in the classroom.
TCCA has earnestly pursued established artists in each category to “blind judge” the contest. The Literary and Visual Art pieces will be on exhibit at TCCA throughout the month of May, including Winnsboro’s citywide event, “TEXAS WOODSTOCK” May 2-4, 2008. WOODSTOCK’S theme is built around the “Arts’ and TCCA will promote the contest winners throughout the weekend. Winners in the performing arts will have the opportunity to perform their entry on May 3nd at TCCA. More exciting recognition will be attached, as well.
Contact: We’re asking that one main contact be selected from your association, group of families, etc.,so that we may coordinate efficiently. Please call Cindy Fisher at 903-342-0686 (collect calls accepted) or cell phone (903) 434-3006. Should you get a recording, please leave your name, organization, and daytime phone number.
TCCA SAC Announcement: SAC
TCCA SAC Rules: RULES
TCCA SAC Entry Form: Student Entry Form
TCCA SAC HS Group Form: Homeschool Group Form
Back to CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
7. NATIONAL CONGRESSIONAL ART COMPETITION FOR NORTH TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
SPRING 2008 --- See Deadlines Below
Who: High School Students in North Texas
Details: "An Artistic Discovery" is the annual nationwide Congressional High School Art Competition initiated by Members of the U.S. House of Representatives. Each Congressional District may host its own competition, and since the competition was first launched in 1982, hundreds of thousands of students have participated in over 5000 locally conducted contests.
This spring, several North Texas Congressional offices will hold contests. The winning student from each district will have his or her artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol complex for one year! In addition, the winners and their two guests are invited to the nation's capital in the summer to attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony honoring the winning artists from across the country and opening the 2008 "An Artistic Discovery" exhibition. Thousands of people visiting the nation's capitol, as well as Members of Congress and their staffs, are able to walk through the exhibit daily, viewing artwork from Congressional districts throughout the country-each piece highlighted with the name of the work and student artist.
Interested students and teachers should contact their congressional office ASAP for more information.
| Dist. | Member | Contact | Phone | Deadline |
| TX-3 | Rep. Sam Johnson | Deanna Kuykendall
|
972-470-0892 | March 12 |
| TX-4 | Rep. Ralph Hall | Natalie Raulston
|
972-771-9118 | March 12 |
| TX-5 | Rep. Jeb Hensarling | Sarah Rozier
|
214-349-9996 | March 28 |
| TX-12 | Rep. Kay Granger | Marcia Etie
|
817-338-0909 | April 25 |
| TX-24 | Rep. Kenny Marchant | Amanda Post
|
972-556-0162 | April 11 |
| TX-26 | Rep. Michael Burgess | Joan Self
|
972-434-9700 | April 7 |
| TX-30 | Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson | Peter Osborne
|
214-922-8885 | April 24 |
Back to CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
8. CITY OF FORT WORTH YOUTH ADVISORY BOARD
In recent years, there has been a growing trend to involve youth in local government. The Fort Worth City Council believes that the voices of young people are important. To facilitate that, the Council has approved a new Youth Advisory Board for the City of Fort Worth. The Youth Advisory Board will advise the City Council on issues regarding the youth in the City of Fort Worth. A brief summary of the Youth Advisory Board follows.
Who May Apply: High school age students who are between the ages of 14-18 and who reside in Fort Worth may submit an
application for consideration for appointment to the advisory board.
Purpose:
The Youth Advisory Board shall:
• act in an advisory capacity to the Fort Worth City Council;
• study youth issues important to the community;
• encourage youth to become actively involved in matters pertaining to the community; and,
• act as a source of information and education on issues important to youth.
Members:
The Youth Advisory Board shall be composed of 27 members who will meet bi-monthly.
Activities:
To be determined by the Youth Advisory Board, following the direction of City Council.
Contact For More Information: Carol Everhart at carol.everhart@fortworthgov.org
Community Relations Department, School and Youth Outreach
1000 Throckmorton, Fort Worth, TX 76102
817.392.8444 817.392.7529 (fax)
For an application: http://www.heartoftex.org/downloads/downloads.html
Back to CIVICS/GOOD CITIZENSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
9. CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS TEEN COURT
Teen Court benefits both youth and community by providing an alternative method of adjudicating juvenile offenders and allowing teen volunteers to learn about the judicial system, while documenting Community Service hours.
Who Can Volunteer: Full time students ages 13-18 who are in PUBLIC, PRIVATE OR HOME SCHOOLS.
Volunteers may serve as jurors for our Teen Court sessions, or once trained, can act as a defense attorney or prosecutor in our Teen Court trials.
Teen Defendants are held responsible for their behavior while giving them the opportunity to participate in and become knowledgeable about the judicial system. Juvenile Offenders "pay" for their offense(s) by performing community service and participating in Teen Court. Volunteer teen attorneys present offender's cases to a jury of their peers.
Upon successful completion of the program, offender's cases are dismissed and do not appear on their permanent records.Teen Court alleviates the strain on the regular court system, besides giving juvenile offenders a second chance. The program also provides youths in the area a chance to participate in the judicial process.
Location: North Richland Hills Teen Court
6720 N.E. Loop 820
North Richland Hills, Tx 76180817-427-6705
To Volunteer: Contact Heather Hollingsworth at hhollingsworth@nrhtx.com
For More Information: http://www.nrhtx.com/dept_courts_teen.aspx
You may also come to Teen Court on any night Teen Court is in session to observe, prior to signing up to be a volunteer.
Back to CIVICS/GOOD CITIZENSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
10. TEXAS HOME SCHOOL COALITION GOOD CITIZENSHIP AWARD PROGRAM
Do you ever scratch your head when thinking about how to fulfill the requirement of a "study of good citizenship"? THSC offers a Good Citizenship Program, which rewards students for their participation in the political process and helps them fulfill that requirement.
Certificates are printed, upon request, for students who have volunteered at least forty hours in Voter Registration, Political Party Process, Campaign Process, and Legislative Process, in any combination.
Each year the program culminates with rewards presented at the annual THSC Awards Banquet.At the 2008 Awards Banquet, to be held on April 11 in Houston, the student who has volunteered the greatest number of hours in any one area (or has registered the most voters) over the last twelve months will be presented the award for that area. Each award winner and his/her parents will be invited guests at the banquet.
The volunteer hours may be tracked on a form that can be downloaded and printed as often as needed. Students will be granted eight hours for each Capitol Day attended.
Please note that, while certificates will be issued upon request at any time, the awards will be given based on hours worked between April 1, 2007, and April 1, 2008. The forms must be postmarked or e-mailed no later than April 1 if students are to be considered for awards.
What is a course in good citizenship: For a detailed description, please visit: http://www.thsc.org/good_citizen/good_citizenship_program.asp
The Good Citizenship Certificates and Awards
THSC has instituted an ongoing program to recognize home school students who participate in good citizenship activities with its Good Citizenship Certificate. This certificate will be awarded to each student who participates with at least forty (40) hours of volunteer work in any combination from the following areas: Voter Registration, Political Party Process, Campaign Process, and Legislative Process.
Home school students may be awarded THSC Good Citizenship Certificates at any time following the completion of 40 hours of good citizenship work.
Any home schooled student who earns a Good Citizenship Certificate is automatically entered into the competition for THSC’s Good Citizenship Awards. The following awards recognize the Texas students with the most volunteer hours (highest number of voters registered for the Alamo Award) in each category and are presented at the annual THSC Awards Banquet.
Alamo Award
New voters can be registered most easily when an adult becomes a deputy voter registrar. The parent or support group member can then work with home school students as a deputy voter registrar to take voter registration cards to people who fill t hem in and give them to the deputy voter registrar. These completed cards will then be delivered by the deputy voter registrar to the voter registrar of the county. Home school students can use meetings of support groups, church meetings, and other gathering to register new voters. Deputy voter registrars will be responsible for documenting the number of hours completed by home school students in this area for credit toward the THSC Good Citizenship Certificate. In addition, THSC will award the Alamo Good Citizenship Award to the student who registers the most new voters in Texas for each year.
Ranger Award
Credit for the certificate may also be earned by volunteer work in the campaign of candidates for public office. Any local, state, or federal campaign qualifies for this effort. Campaign officials are responsible for documenting the number of hours completed by home school students in this area for credit toward the THSC Good Citizenship Certificate. In addition, THSC will award the Ranger Good Citizenship Award to the student with the most hours of volunteer work in political campaigns.
Lone Star Award
Home school students may earn credit for good citizenship in the political party process by volunteering to help at precinct, county/senatorial, or state conventions or other political party functions of their chosen political party. Political party officers are responsible for documenting the number of hours completed by home school students in this area for credit toward the THSC Good Citizenship Certificate. In addition, THSC will award the Lone Star Good Citizenship Award to the home school student with the most hours in the category of the political party process in Texas.
Republic Award
Finally, credit for this certificate may also be earned by students who are involved in the legislative process at any local, state, or federal level. Time spent in working for or against any particular issue qualifies. Parents or leaders of any group working on such issues are responsible for documenting the number of hours completed by home school students in this area for credit toward the THSC Good Citizenship Certificate. In addition, THSC will award the Republic Good Citizenship Award to the home school student with the most hours each year in the category of the legislative process.
The THSC Good Citizenship Certificates will be mailed to students upon receipt of verification from the officials documenting the hours. The Alamo, Ranger, Lone Star & Republic Awards will be given to winners at the THSC Awards Banquet held each year.
To View a Sample Certificate: http://www.thsc.org/good_citizen/good_citizenship_certificate.asp
To Download the Good Citizenship Registration and Tracking Form: http://www.thsc.org/good_citizen/good_citizenship.asp
Back to CIVICS/GOOD CITIZENSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
11. CERTIFICATES OF SPECIAL CONGRESSIONAL RECOGNITION
District 24
Congressman Kenny Marchant, U.S. House of Representative, would like to give each graduating senior, who resides in the 24th District of Texas, a certificate of Special Congressional Recognition.
The certificates will be printed with the name of the senior and will be signed by the Congressman.
The completed certificates will then be mailed directly to the senior’s home address.
If interested, please send the name of the graduating high school senior, the date of graduation and the senior’s home address to:
tammi.bartlett@mail.house.gov or call Congressman Marchant’s office at 972.556.0162.
Address:
Congressman Kenny Marchant
9901 E. Valley Ranch Parkway, Ste. 3035
Irving, Texas 75063
To find out if your Congressman has a similar program, please contact your representative:
To Locate Your Representatives:
www.fyi.legis.state.tx.us/
Back to CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE ANNOUNCEMENTS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
12. US SERVICE ACADEMIES FORUM
APRIL 12
Time: 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Location: Tarrant County College Northeast, Student Center
828 Harwood Road
Hurst, TX 76054
Cost: FREE and open to the public
Contact: Robin Vaughan, Office of Congressman Michael Burgess at 972-434-9700 or
Robin.vaughan@mail.house.gov
Details: The U.S. Service Academies Forum is jointly sponsored by Congressman Michael Burgess, as well as Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison and Senator John Cornyn, Congressman Sam Johnson, Congressman Joe Barton, Congresswoman Kay Granger, Congressman Kenny Marchant, and Congressman Pete Sessions.
This informational forum provides interested students grades eight through twelve an opportunity to learn more about our nation's service academies, requirements for admission and the selection process.
Representatives from congressional offices and all five academies (U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and U.S. Air Force Academy) as well as cadets and midshipmen will be on hand to talk with North Texas students, parents and educators on a one to one basis about the possibilities associated with attending these premier educational institutions and the sorts of careers they generate. For those interested in additional options, ROTC representatives will also be present to assist students with ROTC scholarship information.
“The United States Service Academies offer a top notch education for those young people who have the desire to serve our county,” said Congressman Burgess. “I encourage interested students, parents and educators to attend this event and take advantage of this excellent opportunity to find out what it takes to apply and possibly attend one of our nation’s service academies.”
Back to CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE ANNOUNCEMENTS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
12. DFW METROPLEX US SERVICE ACADEMIES DAY
APRIL 12
Time: 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Location: Tarrant County College Northeast, Student Center
828 Harwood Road
Hurst, TX 76054
Cost: FREE and open to the public
Contact: Robin Vaughan, Office of Congressman Michael Burgess at 972-434-9700 or
Robin.vaughan@mail.house.gov
Details: An “All Service Academies Day” sponsored by the offices of Senators Hutchison and Cornyn as well as Congressional Districts, TX-3, 6, 12, 24, 26, and 32
Back to CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE ANNOUNCEMENTS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
14. THEO IN PLANO OFFERING CLASSES FOR HOMESCHOOLERS
CLASSES OFFERED at THEO
FALL 2008 CLASS SCHEDULE
THEO’s fall schedule is on the web! If you love homeschooling, but need a little help with classes for your junior high or high school student, then visit www.THEOsonline.org
We offer many old favorites as well as several new options for our homeschooled students.
SUMMER CAMPS
THEO offers summer camps as well-details are being set as you read this!
We will have a Shakespeare camp, Band camp as well as science and reading camps for the younger set.
TESTING SERVICES
MAY 19-22 - Stanford and Iowa Basic Testing
THEO offers both Stanford and Iowa Basic testing on May 19-22nd.
NEW TO HOME SCHOOLING
APRIL 7 - Homeschool, Who Me?
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Cost: FREE
For those new to homeschooling.
To RSVP: Email Terri@THEOsonline.org
Location: 1301 Custer Road, Suite 703
Plano, TX 75075
For More Information: www.THEOsonline.org
Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
15. CLASSES AND ACHIEVEMENT TESTING AVAILABLE AT CERC IN ROWLETT
Achievement Testing
CERC offers monthly standardized achievement testing. Please contact the store for more details.
Discount: CERC is offering HEART of Texas members a 15% discount on any in-stock items. You must present your valid HEART of Texas Family I.D. card to qualify for the discount.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html
Location: Christian Educators Resource Center
3810 Industrial, Suite 300
Rowlett, TX 75088
Contact: 972-475-4138
www.cerconline.org
Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
16. FAITH CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
FCA is a Christian School in McKinney, Texas which offers Academic and Enrichment classes to home school families with children Pre-school aged through High School.
HOMESCHOOL CLASSES
Academic classes through 8th grade - offered on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Classes include Math, English, Science and History
Enrichment classes through 8th grade - offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Classes include Spanish, Music, Drama, Art, Crafts and more!
High School classes offered on Tuesdays/Thursdays:
Classes include Geometry, English, Biology, Health, “Cracking the SAT U.S. History Subject Test”, Applied Music and Theory, The Stock Market Game, and Audio Video Technical Production.
Spring classes still taking enrollment!
For 2008 Spring Schedule:
http://www.fcamckinney.com/FCA/2007-2008ClassSchedules.asp
TESTING SERVICES
MARCH 31, APRIL 2, APRIL 4 - Stanford Achievement Testing
Call for details: 972-562-5323 ext. 22
SAT College Prep Genius Workshop: Faith Christian Academy will offer a rigorous TWO DAY course by Jean Burk designed to teach students the techniques needed to become successful in taking the SAT and PSAT/NMSQT tests. This course will equip students with the necessary strategies and tips that can help increase their test scores. Students will also learn how to dispel common practices and misconceptions about the SAT that can harm their scores. Click HERE for Registration and Details.
For More Information:
Contact Toni Gore at tgore@fcamckinney.org or 972-562-5323 ext. 22
Location: 115A Industrial Boulevard
McKinney, TX
www.fcamckinney.com
Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
17. 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)
Contact For More Information: Sandra Carey at club_expressions@yahoo.com
Location: The Summit Church
4101 East Park Blvd.
Plano, TX 75074
Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
18. 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
Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
19. CHRISTIAN COTTAGE PREP
Christian Cottage Prep is taking applications for the 2008/2009 Academic Year!
CCP is a unique educational experience. The all-girl classes for grades 6th-8th focus on learning style differences and how to achieve maximum goals academically. There are multi age and grade groups of young ladies in combined classes to achieve higher learning towards grade level and beyond.
The program for 2008-2009 will allow up to three part time students (3 or 4 day “in class” days per week) and three or more full time students (5 days per week) in each classroom. The maximum is six students per room in order to give individual attention to each student. Students are all middle school grades 6th, 7th, and 8th.
CCP welcomes students that have had difficulty with academics (one or more subjects), want to raise their Stanford Achievement test scores to a higher level, or for the student that has “not fit in” due to unique circumstances in a traditional setting. Each student is tested in math and English for proper level placement
Location: 5601 Bridge Street, Suite 335
Fort Worth, TX 76112
Contact: 817-975-6209 or teriwillis5309@sbcglobal.net
Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
20. TARRANT COUNTY COLLEGE HOME SCHOOL CLASSES --- FREE MATH ASSESSMENT
For information about Home School Math Classes offered at Tarrant County College, contact
Maurine Amend at 972-660-8414
Classes and campuses:
SE Campus
Algebra I
Algebra II
Geometry
College Alegebra
NW Campus
Algebra II
Geometry
NW Campus
Biology
Chemistry
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
Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
21. LIBRARY USED BOOK SALES IN NORTH TEXAS
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:
ARLINGTON - April 2 - 6
2008 Spring Book Sale
Time: Thurs: 4-8 p.m; Fri & Sat: 9 am. - 5 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.;
Sun 11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Location: Meadowbrook Recreation Center
1400 E. Dugan Street
(Meadowbrook Park)
817-274-8831
Contact: fapl@sbcglobal.net or henryclutz@sbcglobal.net
Books: 70,000+ books, videos, audio books; Sunday is half price day
-----------------------------------------------------------
TYLER - April 3-5
Time: Thurs. - Sat 8 am - 5 p.m.
Location: Smith County Medical Society Alliance Book Fair Building
4410 DC Drive
Loop 323
(behind Kelly Tire)
903-561-1353
Books: Thousands
-----------------------------------------------------------
WICHITA FALLS - April 5
Location: Friends of the Library Bookstore
Wichita Falls Public Library
600 11th Street
940-767-0868 x 248
Books: 3,000; 100% donated; 85% hardcover; .50-$2
-----------------------------------------------------------
GRAND PRAIRIE - April 9-13
Time: Wed, Thurs: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Fri: 10a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sat: 9 am. - 5 pm.; Sun 1-5p.m.
Location: Main Library
901 Conover Drive
972-262-8015
Books: 16,000; 96% donated; 90% hardcover; sorted; not picked over; .25 - $2;
Sunday half price. If books set aside during shopping, only 10% may be deselected.
-----------------------------------------------------------
CROWLEY - April 11-12
Time: 10am - 5 p.m.
Location: Crowley Public Library
409 S. Oak Street
Contact: library_dallas@gial.edu
Books: 2,500; 25% donated; 70% hardcover; sorted; not picked over; no buyer restrictions; .25 - $1
-----------------------------------------------------------
DALLAS - April 11-13
Time: Fri & Sat: 10a.m.-5p.m.; Sun: 1-5p.m.
Location: Casa View Library
10355 Ferguson Road
214-328-6595
Books: 1,200; 100% donated; 60% hardcover; sorted; not picked over; no buyer restrictions; .50-$2
-----------------------------------------------------------
CEDAR PARK - April 12; July 12; Oct. 11
Time: Sat: 9a.m.-4p.m.; Sun: 1-4p.m.; Mon: 9a.m.-Noon
(Monday is Library Open House)
Location: Cedar Park Public Library
550 Discovery Boulevard
512-401-5600
Contact: library@cedarparktx.us
Books: 2,500; 100% donated; 60+% hardcover; sorted; not picked over; no buyer restrictions; $1-$2
-----------------------------------------------------------
DENTON - April 12; July 12; Oct. 11
Time: Sat: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m
Admission: $1 (friends and children under 12 free)
Location: North Branch Library
3020 N. Locust Street
Contact: ljj14@aol.com
Books: 6,000; 35% donated; 75% hardcover; sorted; not picked over; .50-$1
-----------------------------------------------------------
WHITE SETTLEMENT - April 12
Time: Sat: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Location: White Settlement Public Library
8215 White Settlement Rd
817-367-0166
Contact: wsplib@wstx.us
Books: 2,000 books; 60% donated; sorted; not p icked over; no buyer restrictions;
Paperback/Media Sale only: Regular paperbacks .30; Withdrawn paperbacks 6/$1; Videos/DVDs $1
-----------------------------------------------------------
SHERMAN - April 19
Time: Sat: 8-4
Location: Sherman Public Library
421 N. Travis
Books: 3,000; 85% donated; 50% hardcover; sorted; .25 -$1
-----------------------------------------------------------
HALTOM CITY - April 24-26
Time: Thurs: 10-8; Fri: 10-5:30; Sat: 10-4
Location: Haltom City Public Library at Haltom City Recreation Center
4839 Broadway
817-222-7786
Contact: flywme7@peoplepc.com
Books: 7,000; not picked over; .25 - $2
-----------------------------------------------------------
ROCKWALL - April 25-26
Time: Fri: 1-6; Sat: 9-3;
Location: Rockwall County Library at Harry Myers Community Center
815 E. Washington St
972-882-0340
Books: 5,000; 100% donated; 50% hardcover; sorted; not picked over; .25 - $1
-----------------------------------------------------------
BURLESON - April 25-26
Time: Fri: 10a.m. - 6p.m.; Sat: 10-2
Location: Burleson Public Library
248 S.W. Johnson Ave
817-295-6131 x264
Books: 5,000; books; 100% donated; 50% hardcover; sorted; .10-$2
-----------------------------------------------------------
FORT WORTH - April 25-27
Time: Sat: 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m; Sun: 1 - 4:30 p.m.
Preview: Fri 10-8; Friends; join at the door
Location: Friends of Fort Worth Public Library
At Chapter II Outlet Store
(3 doors from Book Store)
817-346-2255
Books: Thousands of books; includes CDs; videos; audio; .50-$1’
Come often - we will restock at the end of each day.
-----------------------------------------------------------
ROCKWALL - April 25-26
Time: Fri: 1-6 p.m.; Sat: 9a.m.-3p.m.
Location: Rockwall County Library
At Harry Myers Community Center
815 E. Washington St
972-882-0340
Books: 5,000; 100% donated; 50% hardcover; sorted; not picked over; no buyer restrictions; .50-$1
-----------------------------------------------------------
SOUTHLAKE - April 25-27
Time: Fri: 4-9; Sat: 10-9; Sun: 11-6
Location: Southlake Library at Southlake Town Square
1400 Main Street
Books: 5,000; 100% donated; 10% hardcover; sorted; paperback .50; hardcovers $1
Sale is part of Art in the Square.
-----------------------------------------------------------
GRANBURY - APRIL 26-27
Time: Sat: 9a.m.-6p.m.; Sun: 1-4p.m.
Friends Preview: Thurs & Fri 9am-6pm; can join at the door
Location: Hood County Library
222 N. Travis Street
817-776-1548
Contact: joandty@lakegranbury.com
Books: 25,000; 90% donated; 80% hardcover; sorted; not picked over; no buyer restrictions; .25-$1; Sun $5/box
Back to BOOK SALES & HOME SCHOOL BOOK STORES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
22. CHRISTIAN EDUCATORS RESOURCE CENTER
CERC, located in Rowlett, is a home school book store offering classes, testing, and other home school resources.
It is located at:
3810 Industrial, Suite 300
Rowlett, TX 75088
972-475-4138
Website: http://cerconline.org/
Discount: CERC is offering HEART of Texas members a 15% discount on any materials that are in stock,
with a valid Heart of Texas family membership card.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html
Back to BOOK SALES & HOME SCHOOL BOOK STORES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
23. CREATIVE ARTS IN ACTION
Creative Arts in Action, located in Watauga, provides the best in curriculum, classes and classical theatre.
DURING THE MONTH OF APRIL
April Spring Clearance of ALL Used Curriculum
Creative Arts In Action is having a Spring Clearance on ALL of our
Used Curriculum during the month of April ONLY.
Take an additional 25% off our already low prices while supplies last.
Prices adjusted at the register. Not good with any other offer.
Don't miss this once a year event!!
Location:
5733 Watauga Road
Watauga TX 76148
817-281-2293
(Between 377 and Rufe Snow in Northeast Fort Worth, Texas)
Website: http://www.creativeartsinaction.com/
Discount: Creative Arts In Action is offering HEART of Texas members a 10% discount off all new and used curriculum and tickets to our student theatre performances, with a valid Heart of Texas family membership card.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html
SUMMER CLASSES OFFERED
Registration has begun!
Please check out our website for descriptions, dates and prices.
Below are a few of the classes that will be offered:
Super-Math and Super Reading with Dr. Miles Jones
Super Math is a concept ahead of its time. Using the techniques of Dr. Jones' famous Accelerated Learning Super-Math program, students and parents will work together to master the fundamentals of math. Students from ages 2 through High School can learn math on the same day using the same unique teaching style found only in Super-Math.
PSAT Math Prep with Marc Sandefur
This PSAT math review course will familiarize students with the format of the PSAT, 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 homeworkassigned.
Stanford Achievement Test for Grades 2-8
MAY 12 - MAY 14
Cost: $85 per test is due at the time of your order
(Tests ordered late will cost an additional $10)
Details: The Stanford Achievement Test is a nationally standardized test put out by Bob Jones Testing & Evaluation Services. It is an untimed test and is given at Creative Arts in Action each spring. Tests will be given by qualified Stanford test administrators in May.
The Otis-Lennon School Ability Test (OLSAT) is also available for an additional fee.
To Register: Call 817-281-2293
Theatre Productions directed by Anicia Brown
Emperor's New Clothes (Grades 3-7)
Annie (Grades 3-12)
Godspell (Grades 8-12)
Back to BOOK SALES & HOME SCHOOL BOOK STORES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
24. HOME EDUCATORS RESOURCE
The Home Educators Resource has two store locations, one in Lewisville and the other in Duncanville.
They sell a large array of new and used books and curriculum, plus they offer classes and other resource
to homeschool families.
The Lewisville Store is Located at:
1288 W. Main Street Suite 203
Lewisville, TX 75067
972-956-8320
The Duncanville Store is CLOSED
Website: http://homeeducatorsresource.com/
Discount: Home Educators Resource is offering 10% off new and used books to HEART of Texas family members. Plus, members will still earn punches on their HER Buyer's Card.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html
Back to BOOK SALES & HOME SCHOOL BOOK STORES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
25. RHSA USED BOOK SALE
APRIL 10
Time: 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Waterview Church of Christ
1409 N. Waterview Drive (between Arapaho & Campbell)
Details: All prices will be in whole dollar amounts - so bring plenty of dollar bills and a full check book! NO CHANGE WILL BE MADE. COME PREPARED!!!
For More Information: Call 972-238-8641 and ask for Leah Carey
Back to BOOK SALES & HOME SCHOOL BOOK STORES
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
26. DALLAS ARBORETUM EVENTS
MARCH 8 - APRIL 13 --- DALLAS BLOOMS
The 2008 festival theme is The Star of Texas, and one of the best things about our great state. The incredible beauty of the arboretum, will be highlighted throughout the festival. This will include music, food, celebrities, poetry, and our rich history. The centerpiece of Dallas Blooms: The Star of Texas, will include a giant flower-filled star and other theme-inspired topiaries that will fill the garden. Dallas Blooms will feature more than 400,000 spring-blooming bulbs, over 3,000 azaleas and thousands of another annuals and perennials spread throughout the 66-acre garden. The 2008 festival is a fun-filled five-week, six-weekend event and is the largest outdoor floral festival in the Southwest. Popular themed activities that are being planned include, trick roping, hay rides, armadillo races and, country and western entertainment with an old fashioned square dance. Favorite activities return, including Mommy & Me Mondays and Tiny Tots Tuesdays.
What's in Bloom
No matter the time of year, the Arboretum is always in bloom. Both spring and fall feature wild bursts of color. Summer does nothing to diminish the bloom of the Arboretum plantings, which thrive on the warmth of Dallas' summer months. And, because of Dallas' temperate winter temperature, the arboretum is even in blooming the middle of winter. Regardless when you come, there will be plenty to see and plenty of flowers to enjoy.
Hours: Open Daily 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Located:
8525 Garland Road
Dallas, TX 75219
214-515-6500
www.dallasarboretum.org
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
27. 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.
MARCH/APRIL/MAY CAMPS
APRIL 2 & 3 - Blackland Prairie
MAY 7 & 8 - Deserts
Cost: Regular rate: $15/camp pre-registered by mail.
Walk-ins the day of camp: $18, **make sure you phone in that you're coming.
4 year olds $10
Under 4 and parents FREE.
For Camp/Class Descriptions and Other Information: http://www.camptonkawatexas.com/classes/full_class_listing.shtml
APRIL 18, 19, 20 - Family Camp
Register by April 1, for reduced rates
Come one or more days. Tell your homeschool groups, it will be a time to reconnect with all your friends, family, and nature.
Come to the whole event or pay per days you wish to attend. You can arrive Thursday evening if you plan to attend the Friday events.
Costs: Pre-registration postmarked by April 5th:
Adult $25/ day or $70 for week-end
13-19 $18/day or $50 for week-end
5-12 $12/day or $30 for week-end
4-under FREE
After April 5th:
Adult $30/day or $80 for week-end
13-19 $22/day or $60 for week-end
5-12 $15/day or $40 for week-end
4-under $5/day or $15 for week-end
This will be a family event, at least one parent must be in attendance.
Children under 5, must be supervised and accompanied by parent to workshops.
Evening Activities (no cost) : Star Gazing, Storytelling, Campfire Song & Music, Nightwalks and Night Woods Activities.
Time: 9:30 a.m. - Morning Session Workshops Begin
1:00 p.m. Afternoon Session Workshops Begin
Class Description
Our newly added camp can either be just a relaxing couple of days of family fellowship or you can participate in outdoor workshops ranging from fire classes, rabbit sticks, indian beading, pine needle baskets, nature awareness games and activities, horsebackriding and kayaking, to name a few. Some workshops will have a minimnal charge to cover materials for that workshop. Both morning and afternoons workshops will be offered, with sign up sheets the evening before.
Food: NO Food will be provided. Bring your own provisions to accommodate the needs of your family.
Sorry No Pets allowed.
APRIL 26 - Arbor Day Celebration
Time: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Bring your lunch
Cost: FREE (asking for tree donations)
If your family or home school group or other organization donates for a tree, we’ll put your name on the tree.
Details: This is a great time to come out and visit the camp!
There will be storytimes for the kids, as well as workshops and educational programs on various tree-related topics - appropriate for all ages!
Or you can just come out and walk the trails and just enjoy being in nature!!
It will be a lot of fun for everyone!! Bring your whole family or homeschool group!
We will be taking a break for summer camps.
Nature Awareness Day Camps start up again In August.
JUNE SUMMER CAMP SCHEDULE
If you are a returning camper, receive a $35 to $50 discount by bringing a friend to camp! Book early, we only have so much room in the Tipis. Horse camps will be sleeping in the barn, but we only have so many horses, so enroll early.
9th to 12th - Girls Horsing Around Summer Camp
10th to 12th - Walk In The Woods Summer Camp
16th to 20th - Week In The Woods Summer Camp
19th - 21st - Western Days Summer Camp
22nd - 27th - Week In The Woods - Teen Summer Camp
23rd to 26th - Teen Girls Horsing Around Summer Camp
30th to July 3rd - Boys Horsing Around Summer Camp
For More Information: Contact April at camptonkawa@bigplanet.com or 903-429-6483
www.camptonkawatexas.com
If you bookmarked our camp previously, make sure you redo it so that you have the new information for 2008.
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
28. FORT WORTH NATURE CENTER AND REFUGE PROGRAMS
APRIL 5 --- Frog Watch
Time: 1-4 p.m.
Cost: FREE with paid admission
Ever wonder what was making all that noise in the dark? If you were near water, it probably was some sort of amphibian, either a frog or a toad. Join Mark Pyle for this interesting workshop as you learn to identify these animals by both sight and sound. FREE (with paid admission).
APRIL 6 --- Backyard Wilderness
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Admission: FREE with paid admission
Would you like a variety of animals in your backyard? Join us and you will learn how to provide habitats for birds, butterflies, frogs, and more right in your own backyard. FREE (with paid admission).
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
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
29. FOSSIL RIM HOME SCHOOL CLASSES AND EVENTS
APRIL 4 --- Living Texas Overnight Camp
Time: 10 a.m.
Details: We will learn about Native Americans, bison, cattle drives, and more, through hands-on experiences. Includes an authentic Chuckwagon Dinner, and a guided tour of Fossil Rim.
To Register: homeschool@fossilrim.org
or call 254-897-2960 ext. 216
APRIL 21 --- Conservation in Action Day
Time: 9 - 2:30ish
Break for Lunch: 12:00-1:00
Guided Tour of Fossil Rim: 1:00-2:30ish
Details: Learn about different ways you can conserve natural resources; participate in an on-site conservation project, then take a guided tour of Fossil Rim.
MAY 5 --- Homeschool Nature Journaling Event
Time: 10a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Break for Lunch: 12:00-1:00
Guided Tour of Fossil Rim: 1:00-2:30ish
Details: This event will combine a nature journaling class, an art class, a picnic lunch, and a tour of Fossil Rim. In the morning, we will learn 4 different nature journaling techniques. After a picnic lunch, we will have a basic art class, followed by driving to specific sites within Fossil Rim to practice our Nature Journaling skills!
MAY 19 --- Homeschool African Safari Day Camp
Details to be announced
MAY 30 --- Stargazer Paul Derrick Astronomy Event for Homeschoolers and Others
Time: 8 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Mr. Derrick returns with a Power Point presentation entitled "Constellations of Spring," a laser pointer "Sky Tour," and Telescope Viewing using Mr. Derrick's 8-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope.
JUNE 2 --- Homeschool Fossil Dig Class & Tour
Time: 10 a.m. - 2:30 p .m.
Break for Lunch: 12:00-1:00
Guided Tour of Fossil Rim: 1:00-2:30ish
Details: In the morning, take a bus down to our Fossil Pit and dig for marine fossils! Share a picnic lunch at the Overlook, then take a guided tour of Fossil Rim's current, non-marine residents!!!
JUNE 16 --- Homeschool Native Plant Scavenger Hunt & Tour
Time: 10 a.m. - 2:30 p .m.
Break for Lunch: 12:00-1:00
Guided Tour of Fossil Rim: 1:00-2:30ish
Details: Use our Native Plant Flip Book to identify the native plants along our nature trail in the morning, share a picnic lunch, then tour Fossil Rim.
To Register: homeschool@fossilrim.org
or call 254-897-2960 ext. 216
For more Details: www.fossilrim.com/visiting/home_school.html
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
30. HERITAGE FARMSTEAD MUSEUM --- PLANO
The Museum Grounds are Open Year-Round (Except Mondays and Holidays)
Tuesday - Sunday 9:00am - 4:30pm
Docent-Led Tours - Tuesday through Sunday
Time: 1:30 p.m. (one tour daily)
Tour begins on the front porch. Includes Farrell-Wilson house, outbuildings, and grounds.
Admission: $5 Adults; $3.50 Children 5 & up, Students, and Seniors (65+);
Children 4 and under are free; Museum members free
Docent will collect admission fees before the tour begins.
Self-Guided Grounds Tours - Tuesday through Sunday
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Tour the grounds only. No access to the Farrell-Wilson house our outbuildings.
Grounds guide available.
Admission: $2 per person
Children 4 and under are free; Museum members free.
Other Tours: Available by appointment. Call 972-881-0140.
FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH --- Scout Tours REQUIRE ADVANCE RESERVATIONS --- Call the Farmstead office to reserve a date.
Tours are booked on a first come first served basis
Cost: Pricing has been revised. Contact the Farmstead office for more information.
(No siblings under 4 years old)
Tours must be PREPAID.
Scouts will receive a patch from the Farmstead.
FRIDAYS AT THE FARMSTEAD (Programs last 90 minutes)
(For children ages 2-5)
Time: 10:30
Cost: $6/child/program & $3/adult
To Register: Call 972-881-0140
NOTE: Prepayment and registration are required. Registrations are welcome until Wed noon for the Friday program that same week. All fees are non-refundable.
APRIL 11th - “Now That Bugs Me!” Children will be introduced to simple concepts relating to bugs and their purpose on a farm.
APRIL 25th - “Teddy Bear Picnic” Children will be introduced to simple concepts surrounding the history of the stuffed teddy bear and its beloved meaning.
FRIDAYS AT THE FARMSTEAD (Programs last 90 minutes)
(For children ages 6-12)
Time: 1:30
Cost: $8/child/program
To Register: Call 972-881-0140
NOTE: Prepayment and registration are required. Registrations are welcome until Wed noon for the Friday program that same week. All fees are non-refundable.
APRIL 11 - “Chores All Year Long” Children will experience topics of discovery concerning children’s chores around a turn-of-the-century farmstead.
APRIL 25 - “Planting and Growing” Children will experience topics of discovery focusing on seeds, flowers, and planning activities associated with early 1900 century farm life.
SPECIAL EVENTS
APRIL 6 - Miss Ammie Wilson’s Birthday Celebration and Spring Celebration Time: 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Admission: $5 adults; $3.50 children and seniors per person Details: The Heritage Farmstead Museum will celebrate 127 years since the birth of Miss Ammie during its annual Spring festival. Please join us for games, crafts, bake sale, birthday cake, sheep shearing demonstrations, live music and much more.
SUMMER CAMPS
Pre-school 2-5 year-olds:
JUNE 2 - 5 --- “Mommy and Me Go to Camp”
Time: 9:30-11:30
Admission: $20/day or $75/week
JUNE 2 --- Animals, wash clothes, grind corn, etc.
JUNE 3 --- Animals, counting, one room schoolhouse, etc.
JUNE 4 --- Animals, cowboys/cowgirls, etc.
JUNE 5 --- Animals, colors, plants, potting tables, etc.
6-12 year-olds:
JUNE 16 - 19 --- “Creek Camp”
Time: 9:30-12:30pm
Admission: $40/day or $150/week
JUNE 16 --- Building dams, water flow, etc.
JUNE 17 --- Ecology, pollution, water cycle, etc.
JUNE 18th --- Exploring, water as power, etc.
JUNE 19--- Boats, fossils, plaster prints, etc.
6-12 year-olds:
JULY 7 - 11 --- “Chores on the Farm”
Time: 9:30-12:30
Admission: $40/day or $180/week
JULY 7 --- Animals, canning, salting/curing, root cellar, etc.
JULY 8 --- Animals, churning butter, preparing meals, etc.
JULY 9 --- Animals, gardening, harvesting, potting tables, etc.
JULY 10 --- Animals, washing clothes, housework, etc.
JULY 11 --- Animals, candle making, games, etc.
6-12 year-olds:
JULY 28 -31 --- “Toys, Games, and Pastimes”
Time: 9:30-12:30
Admission: $40/day or $150/week
JULY 28 --- Thaumatrope, stilts, hoops, dolls, marbles, etc.
JULY 29 --- Chromoscope, mechanical banks, pencil pastimes, etc.
JULY 30 --- Steroscope, spinning tops, card games, jack straws, etc.
JULY31 --- Water/creek games, cudgel, shiney, etc.
8-12 year-olds:
AUGUST 12 - 14 --- “Victorian Art”
Time: 9:30-12:30
Admission: $40/day or $110/week
AUGUST 12 --- Paint, tiles, silhouettes, action books, etc.
AUGUST 13 --- Textiles, cotton, wool, etc.
AUGUST 14 --- Dying fabrics, needlework, stuffed animals, etc.
VOLUNTEER GARDENER NEEDED:
The Heritage Farmstead Museum is looking for a volunteer gardener to take charge of the historic kitchen garden for the 2008 growing season. Some experience helpful. Gardener will also benefit from the gardens fresh vegetables in the fall. Please contact Angie Carroll, Volunteer Coordinator, for further information. 972-881-0140.
For Registration and Other Information: 972-881-0140 http://heritagefarmstead.org/events.htm
Location: Heritage Farmstead Museum
1900 West 15th Street
Plano, TX
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
31. SHARKAROSA OPEN-TO-THE-PUBLIC DAYS
SATURDAYS
Time: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. (last tour begins at 4:30)
Admission: $8 per person; kids 2 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!
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)
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
32. TEXAS DISCOVERY GARDENS ---
community events such as Day at Fair Park. Training is provided by the staff of Texas Discovery Gardens.
For more info: Contact Melissa Martin at mmartin@texasdiscoverygardens.org or 214.428.7476 ext. 25.
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 Scouting Program Info: 214-428-7476 x 27
For More Information: www.texasdiscoverygardens.org
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
Back to the top
-----------------------------------------------------------
33. TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT ACTIVITIES
ATHENS, TX
APRIL 5 - Outdoor Fools Day
Location: Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center
Time: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Cost: Free with admission to the center
Details: Learn outdoor skills and get hands-on experience in a variety of areas-camping, fishing, birding, hunting, and boating. Representatives of various divisions of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, outdoor businesses and conservation organizations will be on hand to help you get ready to see it’s true: Lifes Better Outside.
For More Information: 903-676-BASS.
MAY 3 - Cinco De Mayo
Location: Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center
Time: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Details: Celebrate the joint heritage of Texas and Mexico with food, games, music and more.
For More Information: 903-676-BASS.
JUNE 7 - Free Fishing Day
Location: Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center
Time: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Cost: Regular admission to the Center
Details: Celebrate the start of National Fishing Week with free fishing at TFFC.
For More Information: 903-676-BASS.
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
-----------------------------------------------------------
CARROLLTON, TX
APRIL 19 -Project WILD Workshop
Location: Coppell ISD Vonita White Adminstration Building
200 S. Denton Tap Rd
Time: 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Details: Learn how to teach young people about terrestrial and aquatic wildlife and ecosystems using fun, hands-on educational activities. During the six-hour training workshop participants will sample activities and receive a curriculum and activity guide. Activities are adaptable for all grade levels, integrated with core subject curricula and aligned to the TEKS and TAKS. Teachers, informal educators and youth group leaders may take the training. Bring a sack lunch.
Preregistration required
Call to Register: Linda Cook, lcook@coppellisd.com or (214) 471-7031.
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
-----------------------------------------------------------
CEDAR HILL, TX
APRIL 5 - 7th Annual Cedar Hill Expo
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Details: Enjoy a fun-filled day in which you can participate in many of the programs we offer. Some of the events include reptile programs, bass casting for kids, a wildflower walk, archery, and kayaking. Game wardens will also be available throughout the day to answer questions regarding TPWD regulations. The Cedar Hill Cartwrights Vintage Baseball Club will be holding a vintage baseball tournament and club sign-up. Accessible for the mobility and visually impaired.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232.
APRIL 19 - Reptiles Our Scaly-Skinned Friends
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 7 p.m. - 8 p.m..
Details: Hear about the reptiles found in the area and look and feel some live ones, too. Accessible for the mobility impaired.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232.
APRIL 19, 26 - Blooms of Spring Wildflower Walk
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 9:30 - 10:30 .a.m.; April 26 - 2 - 3 p.m.
Details: Take a leisurely walk and hear about the wildflowers of the native prairie grasslands and the stories behind them. Bring insect repellent.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232
APRIL 26 - Penn Farm Tour
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 2 - 3:30 p.m.
Details: Learn what life on the farm was like for the Penn family from the 1850s to the 1950s on this tour.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232.
MAY 3 - Mammals - Our Fuzzy, Furry Friends
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 3 p.m. - 4 p.m..
Details: Learn about the different mammals at the park as we share different stories about the animals, have skins and skulls to see and touch and maybe even learn a song or two to help us remember our animal friends. Accessible for the mobility impaired.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232.
MAY 3, 10, 31 - Blooms of Spring Wildflower Walk
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 2p.m. - 3p.m.
Details: Take a leisurely walk and hear about the wildflowers of the native prairie grasslands and the stories behind them. Bring insect repellent.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232
MAY 10, 31 - Blooms of Spring Wildflower Walk
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.
Details: Take a leisurely walk and hear about the wildflowers of the native prairie grasslands and the stories behind them. Bring insect repellent.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232
MAY 17 - 7th Annual Youth Carp Fishing Event
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 9 a.m. - Noon
Details: Test your fishing skills fishing for golden carp with the Carp Anglers Group. Enjoy the morning learning a new skill and enjoying a boat ride with one of our game wardens. Some fishing tackle is available for use or bring your own equipment. Bait will be provided.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232
MAY 23 - Bats - Friend or Foe?
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 7p.m. - 8p.m.
Details: Discover the importance of the bats found in the area. Find out about their behavior, communication and just how useful they are. Accessible for the mobility impaired.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232
MAY 24 - Reptiles Our Scaly-Skinned Friends
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 7 p.m. - 8 p.m..
Details: Hear about the reptiles found in the area and look and feel some live ones, too. Accessible for the mobility impaired.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232.
MAY 24, 31 - Penn Farm Tour
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: Call to confirm time
Details: Learn what life on the farm was like for the Penn family from the 1850s to the 1950s on this tour.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232.
JUNE 5, 28 - Reptiles Our Scaly-Skinned Friends
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: June 5: 3-4p.m.; June 28: 7-8p.m.
Details: Hear about the reptiles found in the area and look and feel some live ones, too. Accessible for the mobility impaired.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232.
JUNE 7 - Wal-Mart Kids All-American Fishing Derby
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 10 am. - 2 p.m.
Details: Test your fishing skills. Casting, reeling and hitting the target are all part of the fun. Lots of door prizes will be given away at the end of the event. Food and drinks are available for purchase.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232.
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
-----------------------------------------------------------
DALLAS, TX
APRIL 12 --- Project WILD Workshop
Location: Dallas Zoo, 650 South R. L. Thornton Freeway
Time: 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m..
Cost: $5
Details: Learn how to teach young people about ecology and wildlife using fun, hands-on educational activities. During the six-hour training workshop participants will sample activities and receive a curriculum and activity guide. Activities are adaptable for all grade levels, integrated with core subject curricula and aligned to the TEKS. Teachers, informal educators and youth group leaders may take the training.
Preregistration required.
To Register: Contact Allison Milstead at allison.milstead@dallascityhall.com or (214) 670-8957
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
-----------------------------------------------------------
DENTON, TX
APRIL 12 --- Venomous Snakes of Texas - Myth vs. Truth
Location: Eisenhower State Park
Time: None given
Call: 903-465-1956
Details: Identify the myths and examine the truth about venomous snakes of Texas and learn the treatment for snakebites. Accessible for the mobility, visually, and hearing-impaired.
APRIL 19 --- Basic Angler Education Class
Location: Eisenhower State Park
Time: 8:30 a.m. - Noon
Call: 903-465-1956
Details: Fishing is FUN! Enjoy this hand-on
APRIL 19 --- Slide Show
Location: Eisenhower State Park
Time: Begins at dusk. Lasts 45 minutes.
Call: 903-465-1956
Details: Come to the amphitheater and see the variety of animals that live in the park and fish that inhabit Lake Texoma at this slide show. Accessible for the mobility, visually and hearing impaired.
MAY 3 --- 4-H Kids Fishing Derby
Location: Eisenhower State Park
Time: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Call: 903-465-1956
Details: Come and fish beautiful Lake Texoma with the experts for fun, awards and prizes. This is an great way for families to take kids fishing for free with everything provided, including lots of help from expert anglers. Tackle available or bring your own. Accessible for the mobility impaired. Fishing 8 a.m.-noon, prizes and activities noon-2 p.m.
MAY 10 --- Venomous Snakes of Texas: Myth vs. Truth
Location: Eisenhower State Park
Time: This 45 minute program begins at dusk.
Call: 903-465-1956
Details: Identify the myths and examine the truth about venomous snakes of Texas and learn the treatment for snakebites. Accessible for the mobility, visually and hearing impaired. Forty-five minute program begins at dusk at the amphitheater.
MAY 17 --- Slide Show
Location: Eisenhower State Park
Time: Begins at dusk. Lasts 45 minutes.
Call: 903-465-1956
Details: Come to the amphitheater and see the variety of animals that live in the park and fish that inhabit Lake Texoma at this slide show. Accessible for the mobility, visually and hearing impaired.
JUNE 7 --- 4-H Kids Fishing Derby
Location: Eisenhower State Park
Time: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Call: 903-465-1956
Details: Come and fish beautiful Lake Texoma with the experts for fun, awards and prizes. This is an great way for families to take kids fishing for free with everything provided, including lots of help from expert anglers. Tackle available or bring your own. Accessible for the mobility impaired. Fishing 8 a.m.-noon, prizes and activities noon-2 p.m.
JUNE 14 --- Venomous Snakes of Texas: Myth vs. Truth
Location: Eisenhower State Park
Time: This 45 minute program begins at dusk.
Call: 903-465-1956
Details: Identify the myths and examine the truth about venomous snakes of Texas and learn the treatment for snakebites. Accessible for the mobility, visually and hearing impaired. Forty-five minute program begins at dusk at the amphitheater.
Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
-----------------------------------------------------------
EUSTACE, TX (Henderson/Van Zandt Counties)
APRIL 5 - Stargazing
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 8:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Call: 903-425-2332.
Details: Come explore the night sky and make your own star wheel. Meet at overflow camping parking lot at dark. Accessible for the hearing impaired.
APRIL 12 - Campfire Building
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 8 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Call: 903-425-2332.
Details: Campfires are an enjoyable part of camping, but can be difficult to get started especially when weather is a factor. Here is a chance to learn firebuilding skills using safe firestarters that can be made at home and make your camping experience enjoyable. Accessible for the mobility and hearing impaired.
APRIL 12, 26 - Interpretive Canoe Tour
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 9:30 - Noon
Fee: $6 per person; Free for children 4 and under
Call: 903-425-2332.
Details: Canoe down Purtis Creek and through a natural marsh reservoir. See active beaver dams and native wildlife in their natural habitat. Accessible for the hearing impaired.
APRIL 19 - Full Moon Hike
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 8p.m. - 9p.m.
Fee: $6 per person; Free for children 4 and under
Call: 903-425-2332.
Details: Come enjoy a leisurely hike in the moonlight and learn about some of the nocturnal animals that visit the park. Hike is about 1.5 miles. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, trail may be wet, bring flashlight and water. Small children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at trailhead parking lot. Accessible for the mobility and hearing impaired.
APRIL 20 - Earth Day Lake Cleanup
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: Noon - 4 p.m.
Call: 903-425-2332.
Details: Help clean up trash on the lake and along the shoreline. Canoes provided or bring your own boat. Open to all ages; children must be accompanied by parent. Accessible for the hearing impaired.
APRIL 26 - Purtis Creek Critters
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 8p.m. - 9p.m.
Call: 903-425-2332.
Details: Learn about the animals that frequent the park and how to identify the tracks they leave behind. We will make casts of tracks from molds. Accessible for the mobility and hearing impaired.
MAY 3 - Stargazing
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 8:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Call: 903-425-2332.
Details: Come explore the night sky and make your own star wheel. Meet at overflow camping parking lot at dark. Accessible for the hearing impaired.
MAY 4 - Lakeside Cleanup
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: Noon - 4 p.m.
Call: 903-425-2332.
Details: Help clean up trash on the lake and along the shoreline. Canoes provided or bring your own boat. Open to all ages; children must be accompanied by parent. Accessible for the hearing impaired.
MAY 10 - Nature Hike
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Call: 903-425-2332.
Details: Take a guided hike along the nature trail and learn about the flora and fauna of the park. The hike is just over a mile. Accessible for the hearing impaired.
MAY 10, 24 - Interpretive Canoe Tour
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 9:30 - Noon
Fee: $6 per person; Free for children 4 and under
Call: 903