Mid-September 2008
Home Educators Alliance for Resources and Training of Texas, Inc.
MID-SEPTEMBER 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!
www.HEARTofTex.org
Our deadlines are as follows:
the 12th of the month, for the mid-month issue;
the 27th of the month for the issue that goes out at the beginning of the following month.
Thanks so much!
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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.
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~Highlights ~
SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER
RESERVE YOUR TICKETS FOR THE NUTCRACKER AT BASS HALL
OUR READERS CAN SAVE ON THE BEST SEATS!!
We are pleased to announce that Texas Ballet Theater has partnered with HEART of Texas to offer special ticket prices to our newsletter readers!
Tickets normally start at $19, for the cheapest seats. Our readers, however, can get the BEST SEATS IN THE HOUSE for the low price of just $20! How good are these seats? Texas Ballet Theater has reserved 200 of their very best seats (on the floor, in front of the stage) just for us!!
If you are even remotely interested in taking advantage of these seats, we need to hear from you!
DECEMBER 12-- Special Homeschool Night at the Nutcracker Ballet (Bass Hall)
Time: 8pm
Cost: $20/seat
Contact: Tracy Walton at 972-881-5221 or tracy1476@verizon.net
To Reserve Your Seats: Include the following on a 3x5 index card:
name
mailing address (so we can mail you your tickets)
phone
number of people attending from your group or family
amount enclosed (# attending x $20)
Homeschool group name (if registering as a group)
Send information, payment, and a self-addressed, stamped business-size envelope to:Tracy Walton, 1476 St. Patrick Drive, Plano, TX 75074
You will receive a confirmation notice via email from HEART of Texas when payment is received.
If you don't receive your confirmation within a few days of mailing your registration, contact Tracy at the number above to make sure she received your reservation.
To view the list of other discounted performances: Click Here
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SEPTEMBER 15
THESA RIDERS GIRLS BASKETBALL TRYOUTS
FORT WORTH, TEXAS
Time: 6:00 - 7:00 pm
Location: East Meadows Baptist Church
2000 Morrison Drive
Fort Worth
For More Information: Alan at 817-798-3315 or burtball25@sbcglobal.net or www.thesaridersbball.com
THESA Riders is a home school sports association, providing the DFW area with competitive and Christ-centered athletic programs for home schoolers at the high school and junior high level.
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SEPTEMBER 16
REGISTRATION & PARENT/COACH TRAINING
LEWISVILLE SPEECH & DEBATE CLUB
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Location: Christ Presbyterian Church, Annex Building
3410 Peters Colony Road
Flower Mound, TX 75022
Located across from Flower Mound High School (not Marcus).
For Directions: Click Here Please do not call the church.
Details: This is your opportunity to come and hear what our speech & debate club is all about. You can watch our promo video on the website to get a feel for speech and debate if you’re new to the activity. We compete in the NCFCA league
Please RSVP so we know how many to expect.
For More Information or to RSVP: Click Here to email Lisa Tetsch
Click Here to view full article
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SEPTEMBER 18
NATURE IN ART DAY CAMP
CAMP TONKAWA
Time: 9:30am - 2:30pm
Cost: $18 (walk-ins welcome); $10 4-year-olds; Under 4 and parents are free
Location: Camp Tonkawa
3410 Peters Colony Road
Flower Mound, TX 75022
Located across from Flower Mound High School (not Marcus).
Bring: Crayons and child's scissors
For Directions: Click Here Please do not call the church.
Please RSVP so we know how many to expect.
For More Information or to RSVP: Call April at 902-429-6483
Details: We will be looking at different artists and how they viewed and then portrayed nature in their work. The list below highlights what we will be covering in this "Nature in Art" camp. Numerous small art projects will be a part of the day, along with the regular time in the woods.
Trees: Gustav Klimt
Camo: Henri Rousseau
Birds: John Audubon
Skulls: Georgis o'Keeffe
Landscapes/seasons: Claude Monet; Vincent van Gogh
Prints: Currier & Ives & Katsushika Hokusai
Photos: Ansel Adams
Plant Illustrators for ID books
Journals Lewis & Clark
We will also be welcoming our new instructor Marsha Green, who homeschooled her children and worked at several environmental camps.
To view other camp offerings: Click Here
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SEPTEMBER 20
CONGRESSMAN KENNY MARCHANT'S SERVICE ACADEMY DAY
CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 24
Time: 9am - 12 Noon
Location: Ranchview High School Cafeteria
8401 E. Valley Ranch Pkwy
Irving, TX 75063
Details: Event is free and open to the public. You will have an opportunity to talk to Cadets/Midshipmen as well as representatives from the academies.
Academies Represented:
U.S. Military Academy
U.S. Naval Academy
U.S. Air Force Academy
U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
U.S. Coast Guard Academy
For More Information: Amanda Post at 972-556-0162
To download a pdf of this event: Click Here
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SEPTEMBER 22
CONSERVATION IN ACTION DAY
FOSSIL RIM
Time: 9:00-2:30ish.
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-guided tour of Fossil Rim.
To Register: homeschool@fossilrim.org
or call 254-897-2960 ext. 216
For more Details: www.fossilrim.com/visiting/home_school.html
For Other Events at Fossil Rim: Click Here
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SEPTEMBER 24
REGISTRATION DEADLINE
HOMESCHOOL DAY AT THE FORT WORTH ZOO
Home-schooled children and their families are invited to a fun-filled educational day at the Fort Worth Zoo!
OCTOBER 2 -- Home School Day at the Fort Worth Zoo!
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: September 24
To pre-order lunches and participate in the live animal program.
Time: 10am - 4pm
Admission: $3.75/Pre-K through 5th grade
$5.25/6th grade through High School
$5.50/adults
Free/children 2 and under
No refunds, rain checks, reimbursements, or exchanges. Event is held rain or shine.
Lunches: $4 (must be pre-registered online by Sept 24)
Pre-ordered lunch pick-up will be located in the Bluebonnet Cafe in Texas Wild!.
If you are purchasing for a group, you will receive only one ticket with your group number for your entire group. Participants must have a ticket to receive lunches. Lunch pick-up times available on the online registration form.
Live Animal Program: $2 (must be pre-registered online by Sept 24)
The Wild Wonders Live Animal Program will be presented inside the Zoo at Picnic Outpost for easy access during the event. One ticket with total number of participants is issued for each group. Children 2 and under do not need to purchase a ticket. Program times are available on the online registration form.
To Register Online: Click Here
No phone registrations. You must register online only.
If you register on-site on the day of the event only discounted admission tickets will be available. Lunch and Wild Wonders Live Animal Program tickets are only available by pre-registering.
Early Ticket Pick-Up: Pre-registered tickets may be picked up at the Guest Relations office at the front entrance of the Zoo, from September 26 through September 28 during normal Zoo operating hours: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m
Pre-registered tickets not picked up during the early pick up period will be available at
Will Call starting at 9:30 a.m. on October 2.
Questions: Fort Worth Zoo Education Department 817-759-7200.
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SEPTEMBER 25
EDUCATOR EVENING/OPEN HOUSE
FORT WORTH CULTURAL DISTRICT
This open house is intended for adults only
Time: 4-7 pm
Location: Amon Carter Museum
Kimbell Art Museum
Modern Art Museum of Ft. Worth
National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame
No reservations necessary
Details: Representatives from 13 participating institutions will be spread out at these different locations. Although activities will vary according the focus of each institution, teachers may:
- Receive free resources for the classroom
- View current exhibitions and preview upcoming exhibitions
- Learn about programs for students and teachers
- Network with colleagues over light refreshments
- Explore ideas for using primary resources to support TEKS
Educators are welcome to visit all institutions or may elect to visit only with the institutions that connect with their areas of interest.
For More Information: 817-332-8451
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SEPTEMBER 26
REGISTRATION DEADLINE
LONE STAR HISTORY DAY: PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGNS
SPECIAL DAY FOR HOMESCHOOLERS AT DALLAS HERITAGE VILLAGE
OCTOBER 3 – Lone Star History Day: Presidential Campaigns
(Special Day for Homeschoolers and their Family)
Registration Deadline: September 26
Time: 10am - 4pm
Cost: Non-members: $5/child; free/1st adult
Details: Explore the political process through two of the United States’ most exciting and influential elections in 1860 and 1900. What did Texans think of the candidates, what issues were most important, and how far would someone go to vote? Brush up on your presidential trivia for a quiz bowl in Renner School. (suggested resources and Presidents to study will be included in the resource packet.) Who would you support in 1860 or 1900? Make your own campaign button to declare your loyalty.
Visit the new Brent Place Learning Lounge to explore issues and candidates of the past in detail.
To Register:
By Mail:Print out the registration form at www.DallasHeritageVillage.org and mail it in with your payment.
Online: Pay with a credit card online. But please fax or mail the registration form to us
By Phone: Call 214-413-3674 between 8:00 a.m. and Noon, Monday-Friday.
By Fax: Fax the form with credit card information to 214-428-6351
Family Registration Form: Use this form if your family is registering on your own, or if your group is planning to arrive separately.
Group Registration Form: Use this form if you’re part of a homeschool group or co-op and plan to arrive together or in no more than 3 smaller groups. This will streamline the check-in process, so you can get started on your day as soon as possible.
For More Information: https://www.dallasheritagevillage.org/Event_Detail.aspx?EID=233
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SEPTEMBER 26
CREATIVE ARTS IN ACTION PRESENTS:
2008 BROADWAY REVIEW
SEPTEMBER 26 --- 2008 Broadway Review
Time: 7:30 p.m.
This will be a guaranteed evening of great entertainment featuring solos and group numbers from popular Broadway Shows!
Tickets: $10
Location:
Creative Arts in Action
5733 Watauga Road
Watauga TX 76148
817-281-2293
(Between 377 and Rufe Snow in Northeast Fort Worth, Texas)
For Audition Information: Click Here
For More Information: 817-281-2293
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SEPTEMBER 27
CONGRESSMAN SAM JOHNSON'S ACADEMY FORUM
CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 3
Time: 10am
Location: Collin County Community College
Spring Creek Campus Conference Center
2800 Spring Creek Parkway
Plano, TX
Who: Open to all young men and women 17-22 are residents of Congressional district 3 and will graduate from high school by July 1, 2009.
Academies Represented:
U.S. Military Academy
U.S. Naval Academy
U.S. Air Force Academy
U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
For More Information: Congressman Sam Johnson's office at 972-470-0892
To download a pdf of this event: Click Here
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SEPTEMBER 27
SWEET REPEATS KIDS CONSIGNMENT SALE
HOSTED BY MOPS GROUPS
Time: 7am - Noon and 12:30pm - 3pm (Half Price Sale)
Location:
Trinity Presbyterian Church
5871 W. Virginia Parkway
(Between Lake Forest and Ridge Rd)
McKinney, TX 75071
Details: Sweet Repeats Kid's Consignment Sale is a semi-annual fundraiser for MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) at Trinity Presbyterian and First Baptist McKinney.
We sell children's clothing and accessories from infant to girls junior and boys 20, toys, baby and child equipment, baby and child furniture, shoes, bikes, outside toys, children's books, games, videos, and maternity clothing. Only cash is accepted.
For Map: Click Here
For More Information: info@sweetrepeatsmckinney.org
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SEPTEMBER 30
EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE FOR TEEN PACT
STATE CAPITOL CLASSES
Register by September 30 for the biggest discount of the year!!
What if your homeschooled student actually had the opportunity to earn civics credit while playing the role of a Christian senator in Austin for a week? That becomes a reality through TeenPact Leadership School, a non-profit ministry which trains student statesmen to impact their world for Jesus Christ and brings Texas government to life!
The 2009 Classes will be held:
MARCH 30 - APRIL 2
APRIL 6 - APRIL 9
Ages: 13-19 year olds
APRIL 3 OR 10
Ages: 8-12 year olds
Parents attend for FREE!
To Register: www.teenpact.org
For group discounts, and more information: Click to email Janet Baber
To read the full article Click Here
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SEPTEMBER 30
FINAL DAY OF 50% OFF USED CURRICULUM SALE
CREATIVE ARTS IN ACTION
USED CURRICULUM BLOW-OUT - Everything MUST GO!
Creative Arts is offering an ADDITIONAL 50% discount off our entire Used Curriculum Inventory every day low prices (prices discounted at the register)
Discount cannot be combined with any other offer - no membership or frequent buyer discounts.
Hurry in and get your pick of our used books before they’re all gone!
Location:
Creative Arts in Action
5733 Watauga Rd
Watauga, TX 76148
For More Information: 817-281-2293
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SEPTEMBER 30
KIDS AND CRITTERS AT THE FAIR BEGINS
HOMESCHOOL FIELD TRIP FOR DALLAS COUNTY YOUTH AGES 6-10
Dallas 4-H, Texas AgriLife Extentsion Service, the State Fair of Texas, Southwest Dairy Museum, and My Pets, Inc. have combined to create a unique experience for urban youth to learn about livestock in Texas.
SEPTEMBER 30 - OCTOBER 3
OCTOBER 7 - 10
OCTOBER 14 - 17
Time: 1-1/2 hour program starts between 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m
All will be completed by 1:30 p.m.
Once your tour is over, you may stay to enjoy the rest of the State Fair.
Location: The Livestock Barns at the State Fair of Texas
(Pan American Livestock Exposition)
Cost: FREE - you must enter as one large group.
For More Information: Teresa Taylor at 214-904-3050
To read the full article Click Here
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SEPTEMBER
REGISTRATION OPEN FOR
HOME SCHOOL PE CLASSES AVAILABLE AT VELOCITY SPORTS
(Discount for HEART of Texas members)
REGISTER TODAY FOR FALL 2009
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.
For the Highland Park Location:
Call Mark Cox at 214-739-1122
www.velocitysp.com/highlandpark
For the Southlake Location:
Call Emily Hubbard at 817-416-0606
www.velocitysp.com/southlake
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.
Discount: HEART of Texas Members receive a discount on classes!
See http://www.heartoftex.org/partners/partners.html for more details.
To learn more about HEART of Texas membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html
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~~What's Inside This Issue ~~
(Click on the links below)
FEATURED ARTICLES
Toyota Offering Free Hands-On Defensive Driving Instruction for Student Drivers and Newly-Licensed Teens – by Michael Rouse
Texas Ballet Theater Offering Homeschoolers Discount Tickets on Their Best Seats!
Good Citizenship Opportunities – by Tim Lambert, THSC
Add Some Horsepower to Your Home School PE Program – by Kristin Kirkland
Little Hands on the Farm at the State Fair of Texas Looking for Volunteers
by Sondra Wallace
NEST Family Learning Offering Discount and Free Shipping to Our Readers
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
LIBRARY PROGRAMS
1. Library Programs at North Texas Libraries -- North Texas
Other Libraries are Welcome to Include Their Events – contact info@heartoftex.org
Bedford Public Library
Fort Worth Public Library
Hurst Public Library
McKinney Memorial Public Library
Tyler Public Library
READING REWARD PROGRAMS
2. Book It! Reading Program -- Enrollment Open
3. Braums Book Buddy Reading Program -- Enrollment Open
CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS
4. BEST Robotics 2008 Preview: Just Plane Crazy! -- Texas Best
5. Texas State Fish-Art Contests -- Entries Due March 31, 2009
6. National Engineers Week -- Future City Competition
7. USA Mathematical Talent Search -- Deadline October 14, 2008
CIVICS/GOOD CITIZENSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
8. City of Fort Worth Youth Advisory Board -- Fort Worth
9. City of North Richland Hills Teen Court -- North Richland Hills
10. Texas Home School Coalition Good Citizenship Award Program -- State-wide
CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE ANNOUNCEMENTS
11. Certificates of Special Congressional Recognition for Graduating Seniors
12. National Congressional Art Competition -- Districts 3, 4, 5, 12, 24, 26, 30
HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
13. THEO Home School Classes -- Plano
14. Christian Cottage Prep -- Fort Worth
15. Christian Educators Resource Center -- Rowlett
16. Cooke County Cotillion for Home Schooled Teens -- Gainesville
17. Creative Arts in Action -- Watauga
18. Eastfield College -- Mesquite
19. Enrichment Classes, Inc. -- Lewisville
20. Faith Christian Academy -- McKinney
21. Fabulous Fridays -- Little Elm
22. Home Educators Resource -- Lewisville
23. Homeschoolers East Co-Op Classes -- East Dallas
24. Homeschool Heritage Domus Schola -- Keller
25. Legacy Home School Enrichment Program at First Baptist Euless -- Euless
26. Homeschool Theater Classes at PFAmily Arts --- Plano
27. Tarrant County College -- High School Math Classes
28. Venture Home School Classes -- Colleyville
29. YMCA/Irving Home School Classes -- Irving
BOOK SALES & HOME SCHOOL BOOK STORES
30. Library Used Book Sales in North Texas
Arlington – September 17-21 (Big Sale)
Wylie – September 20
Ennis – September 25-27
Wichita Falls – October 4
Denton – October 11
Euless – October 11-12
Grand Prairie – October 15-19
Arlington – October 22-25 (Big Sale)
Granbury – October 23-26
31. Christian Educators Resource Center -- Rowlett
32. Creative Arts in Action -- Watauga
33. Home Educators Resource -- Lewisville
NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
34. Camp Tonkawa (Day Camps and Outdoor Education) -- Collinsville
Attn: Boy Scout Troops
35. Dallas Arboretum -- Dallas
36. Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge Programs
37. Fossil Rim
Fossil Dig Class & Tour -- September 8
38. Haven's Horses (Horsemanship & Outdoor Education)-- Keller
39. Heard Museum Homeschool Classes – McKinney
40. Heritage Farmstead Museum -- Plano
41. Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch -- Pilot Point
42. Texas Discovery Gardens -- Dallas
43. Texas Parks and Wildlife Programs -- State Parks in North Texas
PERFORMING ARTS
44. Performances at Casa Manana Children’s Playhouse --Fort Worth
Sleeping Beauty -- September 26 - October 12
45. Performances at CATS -- Arlington
Cinderella – October 3-12
46. Cottage Theater – Creative Arts in Action -- Watauga
Broadway Review – September 26
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever – November 21-24
The Sound of Music – February 27 - March 2 (2009)
47. Theater Performances at Artisan Center Theater -- Hurst
Belles on Their Toes – September 19 - October 11
Puss in Boots (Children's Peformance) - Sept 20 - Oct 11
48. Performances at Bass Performance Hall -- Fort Worth
49. Dallas Children’s Theater -- Dallas
Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse - September 19 - October 26
50. Plano Children’s Theater -- Plano
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum - September 6-21
51. Texas Ballet Theater Performances -- Special Homeschool Pricing -- Dallas/Ft. Worth
Mozart's Requiem - October 18 (Bass Hall)
The Nutcracker - December 12 (Bass Hall)
The Nutcracker - December 23-28 (Fair Park Music Hall)
Swan Lake - February 14 (Majestic Theater)
Swan Lake - February 21 (Bass Hall)
Cleopatra - March 28 (Bass Hall)
52. Home School Discount Tickets to Dallas Theater Performances
ART MUSEUMS
53. Amon Carter Museum Exhibits – Fort Worth
54. Dallas Museum of Art Exhibits -- Dallas
Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs - Opens Oct 3
55. Kimball Art Museum Exhibit -- Fort Worth
The Impressionists - Through November 2
56. Museum of Nature & Science -- Dallas
Your Incredible Body -- Opens September 20
57. Museum of Science & History -- Fort Worth
58. Nasher Sculpture Center -- Dallas
IMAX/OMNI THEATERS
59. Shows at the Dallas Imax Theatre -- Museum of Science and Nature
60. Shows at the Fort Worth Omni Theater -- Ft. Worth Museum of Science & History
HISTORICAL PROGRAMS
61. Programs at Log Cabin Village -- Fort Worth
62. Dallas Heritage Village -- Dallas
SCIENCE EVENTS/ACTIVITIES
63. Star Parties at Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
HOME SCHOOL SPORTS/PE PROGRAMS
64. Homeschool Swim -- The Colony Aquatic Park
65. Christian Martial Arts -- Bedford
66. Dallas Thunder Homeschool Basketball Organization -- Registration Open
67. Elite Track Club/Cross Country Program for Home Schoolers
68. Home School Athletic Association
69. THESA Riders Home School Sports Association
70. Hulcy Home School PE Classes -- Richardson
71. Home School PE Classes -- Velocity Sports in Highland Park
72. Home School PE Classes -- Velocity Sports in Southlake
73. Home School Fencing Classes -- Fencing Institute of Texas -- Farmers Branch
74. Pop-In Playtime -- Pump It Up of Grapevine -- Grapevine
75. Tae Kwondo for Home Schoolers -- Plano
SUPPORT GROUP ANNOUNCEMENTS
76. Smoothing the Way Meetings in North Texas
77. Arlington Association Home Educators (AAHE) -- Arlington
78. How Now Homeschooling -- Plano/Frisco/Allen/McKinney area
79. Keller 4H Club Meetings -- Keller
80. Lewisville Area Speech and Debate Club -- Lewisville
81. North Irving Christian Home Educators -- Irving
82. Park Day Drama Club -- Plano
83. Ready to Answer Speech and Debate -- Decatur
84. SALT Co-Op -- DeSoto
85. Homeschoolers Offering Moms Encouragement (HOME) -- Flower Mound
COLLEGE PREP
86. SAT Test Dates
87. SAT Prep Classes with Jean Burk -- Across North Texas
Grapevine - October 3 & 4
COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS FOR HOMESCHOOLERS
88. Baylor and Air Force ROTC (AFROTC) Scholarship -- Deadline December 1, 2008
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
89. Volunteer Opportunities Available for Home School Students in 21 Counties -- American Cancer Society
90. Learn to Laugh in Another Language: Be a Host Family for a Foreign-Exchange Student -- INTO EdVENTURES
91. Homeschool Volunteers Needed to Deliver Hot Meals -- Meals On Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County
92. Volunteers Needed to Serve Meals at The Stewpot -- Dallas -- The Stewpot
OTHER EVENTS BY DATE
93. Great Opportunities for Students at Pump It Up of Grapevine
94. Tutoring/Group Lessons Available in Various Subject Areas
95. Private Piano and Flute Lessons -- Northeast Dallas
96. Younger Generation Chorus of Plano Auditions -- Plano -- August 23 & 26
97. Registration Open for Homeschool Choir & Band Classes -- www.singandplay.com
98. THESA Riders Girls Basketball Tryouts -- Fort Worth -- Sept 18 & 15
99. Irving Homeschooler's 2nd Annual Homeschool Fair -- Irving -- Sept 27
100. Kids and Critters at State Fair of Texas -- Dallas County Only -- Sept 30-Oct 17
101. Homeschool Day at the Fort Worth Zoo -- Fort Worth -- October 2 (Reg. Due Sept 26)
102. Heritage Farmstead Museum Presents: Annual Harvest Festival and Craft Fair -- Plano -- Oct 5
103. WILD Homeschool Day at Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch -- Pilot Point -- October 14
104. Toyota Driving Expectations (Free Program for Student Drivers) -- Grand Prairie -- Nov 7-9 & 14-16
105. Science Teachers Day (American Physical Society) -- Dallas -- November 18
106. Plasma Sciences Expo for Middle & High School Students & Teachers -- Dallas -- November 20-21
107. Teen Pact Texas Capitol Classes -- Austin -- March/April 2009
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FEATURED ARTICLE
Toyota Offering Free Hands-On Defensive Driving Instruction for Student Drivers and Newly-Licensed Teens
– by Michael Rouse
Statistically speaking, while teen drivers account for just 6.6 percent of all licensed drivers, they account for nearly 14 percent of all fatal crashes. In an effort to improve these odds, Toyota is bringing its Toyota Driving Expectations program to Grand Prairie to help promote safe driving among teens.
This free program is open to the public, and will be held November 7-9 and November 14-16 at Lone Star Park in Grand Prairie, Texas.
The program puts newly licensed teens (and teens with permits) into the classroom for instruction and behind the wheel on multiple defensive-driving courses.
Toyota Driving Expectations goes beyond what is currently taught in typical driver's training classes, to help teens identify with and react to dangerous driving situations. For example, to demonstrate the critical relationship between distractions and reaction time, both teens and parents navigate a driving course while drinking water, listening to loud music, and talking on a cell phone. They also experience hard braking maneuvers on wet and dry pavement and maneuver through multiple slalom driving courses under the watchful eyes of professional drivers.
The program offers parents insight into the challenges facing teen drivers, and provides recommendations and countermeasures for any driving concerns they may have.
To download an event flyer with more information on Toyota Driving Expectations: http://www.hear
To Register: www.ToyotaDrivingExpectations.com
Toyota Driving Expectations is a free public program that is fully funded by Toyota and endorsed by both the National Safety Council and the Federal Highway Administration. Michael Rouse is the corporate manager for philanthropy and community affairs at Toyota.
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FEATURED ARTICLE
Texas Ballet Theater Offering Special Ticket Prices for Homeschoolers!
We are pleased to announce that Texas Ballet Theater has partnered with HEART of Texas to offer special ticket prices to homeschoolers! Any homeschooler can take advantage of these tickets.
The performances and dates that are available for the special homeschool price are:
Mozart's Requiem – October 18 at 2pm at Bass Hall
Homeschool Pricing: $20/ticket (best available seating) or $14/upper gallery
To Reserve Tickets: Call Cyndee Weeks 877-828-9200, ext 126
You will need to mention "HEART of Texas" when you call to get the special rate.
The Nutcracker – December 12 at 8pm at Bass Hall
Homeschool Pricing: $20/ticket (best available seating)
To Reserve Tickets: Click Here for instructions
The Nutcracker – December 23-28 at Fair Park Music Hall, Dallas
Homeschool Pricing: $20/ticket (best available seating)
To Reserve Tickets: Call Cyndee Weeks 877-828-9200, ext 126
You will need to mention "HEART of Texas" when you call to get the special rate.
Swan Lake – February 14 at 2pm at Majestic Theater
Homeschool Pricing: $20/ticket (best available seating)
To Reserve Tickets: Call Cyndee Weeks 877-828-9200, ext 126
You will need to mention "HEART of Texas" when you call to get the special rate.
Swan Lake – February 21 at 2pm at Bass Hall
Homeschool Pricing: $20/ticket (best available seating)
To Reserve Tickets: Call Cyndee Weeks 877-828-9200, ext 126
You will need to mention "HEART of Texas" when you call to get the special rate.
Cleopatra (PG-13) – March 28 at 2pm at Bass Hall
Homeschool Pricing: $20/ticket (best available seating)
To Reserve Tickets: Call Cyndee Weeks 877-828-9200, ext 126
You will need to mention "HEART of Texas" when you call to get the special rate.
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FEATURED ARTICLE
Good Citizenship Opportunities for Homeschoolers
– by Tim Lambert, THSC
Labor Day has passed schools are now in session and the political season is in full swing. Home schoolers have the state requirement to teach “Good Citizenship,” (Click Herefor details on this requirement) as do all schools in Texas and the Texas Home School Coalition has developed a Good Citizenship Program to help them do so. As you may or may not know, teaching good citizenship has been defined by the courts as teaching civics or government and we believe the best way to do that is with a “hands-on” approach.
For home schoolers this is not only a great way to teach our children about government in a way that they will remember forever, it is also a way to be pro-active in working to keep our freedom to home school. Many home schoolers asked if we in Texas should be concerned about the actions of the Court of Appeals in California who ruled that home schooling was not legal unless a parent was a certified teacher. While the court eventually reversed its ruling, that situation was a reminder that our freedoms are never completely secure.
In Texas, we have our own Supreme Court ruling in the Leeper v. Arlington ISD case that clearly ruled that home schools in Texas are private schools. However, the courts have consistently ruled that the state has the authority to regulate private schools and while I disagree with that it is nevertheless the law of the land which means that every time the legislature is in session our home school freedoms are at risk.
I hope you will kick off your school year by teaching your children about “Good Citizenship” and registering like-minded people to vote before the October 4th deadline and working for candidates who support home school freedom and have been endorsed by the THSC Political Action Committee (PAC). You can find a current list of those candidates here:www.thscpac.org/thscpac/endorsements.htm
Have a great fall and a wonderful home school year!
Tim Lambert is the president of the Texas Home School Coalition, our state advocacy group whose purpose is to help protect home school freedoms.
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FEATURED ARTICLE
– by Kristin Kirkland
Add Some Horsepower to Your Home School PE Program
Can horsemanship classes really count as physical education? After all, riding a horse out in the country might not sound like a rigorous workout. Kristin Kirkland, program coordinator for Haven's Horses, has offered to share with our readers some of the wonderful physical and psychological benefits of horse riding. What she has to say may surprise you.
What are some physical benefits of horse riding?
Horse riding develops both cardiovascular health as well as muscle conditioning, making it an excellent form of exercise. To the average observer, it might not seem as though a rider is engaging in any sort of physical exercise. On the contrary, a rider who engages in an hour of activity can burn the same number of calories as someone who jogs (at 6 mph) or rides a bicycle (at 9 mph) for 30 minutes. Therefore, a horse rider can achieve the same health benefits that can be gained through regular cardiovascular exercise.
Have you ever ridden a horse and wound up sore afterwards? This is because you were using your muscles in a different way. As the horse moves, it causes the rider to react by using his muscles, particularly the postural muscles of the trunk and pelvis as well as the adductor muscles of the thighs, to avoid getting off-balance and possibly falling out of the saddle. As a rider becomes more experienced in the saddle, the more conditioned his muscles will become and the less likely he will be sore after riding.
What are some psychological benefits of horse riding?
The psychological benefits of horse riding can be of equal importance to a rider as the physical benefits. Horse riding can be very therapeutic in several ways. First, just being outdoors enjoying the beautiful countryside can boost your sense of well-being and help reduce stress. Second, riding often brings about a sense of exhilaration and freedom that cannot be equalled by any other activity. Thirdly, it can be very rewarding for a rider as he begins to develop a relationship and sense of trust between himself and his horse. Finally, riders can gain a great amount of confidence and self-worth as they learn to control and take care of an animal much larger than themselves.
For details regarding the horsemanship classes and outdoor education classes, click here.
Kristin Kirkland is the program director for Haven's Horses, a program offered by Christ's Haven in Keller, Texas. Haven's Horses seeks to offer Christ-centered horsemanship classes and outdoor education classes to homeschool students. For more information about the classes, contact Kristin at 817-925-1982.
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FEATURED ARTICLE
Little Hands on the Farm at the State Fair of Texas Looking for Volunteers
– by Sondra Wallace
Who would of thought an idea in 2002 to have kids do farm chores when they come to the State Fair, would lead to the most popular interactive family attraction five years in a row!
The 2008 State Fair marks the sixth year that Sondra Wallace, a 16th generation farmer and rancher, has coordinated this award-winning event. Sondra and her husband raise cattle just south of Granbury, Texas. For one month each year, Sondra becomes a Dallas resident to bring Little Hands to life.
It is a huge team effort, made possible with the help of two other staff personnel, incredible diverse volunteers, along with the many corporate sponsors that provide the State Fair of Texas the financial support which allows us to provide the Little Hands program for free to our "farmers."
Little Hands on the Farm is located prominently in the agricultural area, within feet of the petting zoo, the coliseum and the Cotton Bowl. We help guide nearly 500 people per hour through the Little Hands exhibit.
This is a wonderful opportunity for children ages 2 to 10 and their families to begin to learn the cause and effect of the work that they, as well as real farmers, do. Interesting and educational tidbits are displayed throughout the farm.
The children will perform a series of "chores" and gather products as they work. Their "supervisors," aka Mom, Dad, Grandpa or Grammy, assist their "farmer(s)" in reading signage and holding baskets while their "farmer" is doing many tasks. The "farmer" then takes the products that they gathered on the farm and "sells" them at the Little Hands farmer's market. Their last stop at Little Hands on the Farm is the grocery store, where they can take the hard earned "dollar" they received at the farmers market to purchase one item.
Little Hands opens at 10:00 a.m. and the last family comes through the gate at 6:45 p.m. By the time the last "farmer" completes their tasks, it is normally 7 to 7:15 p.m..
In past years, our volunteers have included personnel from our corporate sponsors, Master Gardeners from all over Texas, 4-H groups as well as FFA and FCCLA students from schools as far as 200 miles away, Lions Club members, and home school groups.
In previous years, entire families, depending on ages of their children, have come to the fair to volunteer at Little Hands. This allows them to earn community service hours by spending five hours interacting with thousands of people, introducing children to where their food comes from. After their Little Hands shift, the families can spend the remainder of the day visiting the rest of the fair.
Volunteer family groups must have a ratio of 1 adult to 2 children, if their kids are 13 years of age or under. When given breaks or the restroom is necessary, an adult must accompany the young volunteer.
It takes about 50 to 60 volunteers per day to have our farm run smoothly. Twenty five to thirty volunteers are needed in both the morning and afternoon shifts. We can combine several small groups to help us reach those numbers, if necessary.
Morning volunteers must be at the State Fair Blue Lot by 8:30 am. They arrive at Little Hands by 9:00 am for a 20-minute orientation. The first shift works until 2:15 pm. Once the afternoon volunteers are in place, the morning volunteers have completed their commitment.
The second shift of volunteers arrives at Little Hands by 1:30 pm. After the orientation, the fun begins at 2:00 pm. The second shift generally leaves at 7:15 pm.
Each volunteer receives a t-shirt and gate pass. Vehicle passes are provided, one per family or about 5 per group, per shift. We ask everyone to car pool as much as possible, as parking in the BLUE lot is always crowded. We will provide maps for easiest entry and exit from the fair.
Signage will be placed at the entrance of the Little Hands program to acknowledge the VOLUNTEERS OF THE DAY.
Add your group or family name to the list of volunteers. This will allow children to beam with pride for a job well done, and with parents and grandparents proudly smiling as they watch their "farmers" begin to learn where their food and much more comes from!
Each year previous volunteers are given seniority for priority dates. Start your move up the seniority ladder this year.
If your homeschool group or family would like to participate, please call me as soon as possible, at 817-279-8223.
Sondra Wallace is the coordinator for Little Hands on the Farm at the State Fair of Texas. She can be reached at 817-279-8223 or you can click here to email her directly.
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FEATURED ARTICLE
NEST Family Learning Offering Discount and Free Shipping to Our Readers, PLUS a Chance to Win $100 Gift Certificate
NEST Family Learning has partnered with HEART of Texas to offer a special discount to readers of our newsletter!
For a limited time, you can enjoy an additional 15% discount on materials plus FREE shipping on orders of $49 or more.
In addition, with any order you are automatically entered to win a $100 gift certificate that can be applied toward anything in their store: curriculum, videos, or even their selection of arts and crafts supplies.
Simply visit
http://www.nestlearning.com/c-5-homeschool.aspx?s_cid=heart to start shopping and begin enjoying your savings today! Use coupon code "HEART" when placing your order.
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS
1. LIBRARY PROGRAMS AT NORTH TEXAS LIBRARIES
Summer Reading Programs, Clubs, Story Times, Events, Activities, and more! Libraries in North Texas are gearing up for an action-packed, fun-filled summer that will inspire a love of reading!
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
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FORT WORTH PUBLIC LIBRARY
CENTRAL LIBRARY BRANCH
Location: 500 W. 3rd St
817-871-7701
DIAMOND HILL/JARVIS
Location: NE 35th Street
817-624-7331
EAST BERRY LIBRARY
Location: 4300 E. Berry St.
817-536-1945
EAST REGIONAL LIBRARY
Location: 6301 Bridge St.
817-871-6436
MEADOWBROOK LIBRARY
Location: 2800 Stark St.
817-451-0916
NORTHSIDE LIBRARY
Location: 601 Park Street
817-626-8241
RIDGLEA LIBRARY
Location: 3628 Bernie Anderson Drive
817-737-6619
RIVERSIDE LIBRARY:
Location: 2913 Yucca Avenue
817-838-6931
SHAMBLEE LIBRARY
Location: 959 East Rosedale St.
817-871-6621
SOUTHWEST REGIONAL LIBRARY
Location: 4001 Library Ln.
817-782-9853
SUMMERGLEN LIBRARY
Location: 4205 Basswood Blvd.
817-232-0478
WEDGWOOD LIBRARY
Location: 3816 Kimberly Ln.
817-292-3368
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HURST PUBLIC LIBRARY
Location: 901 Precinct Line Road
Hurst, TX 76053
817-788-7300
Contact: rreynaro@ci.hurst.us
TUESDAYS & WEDNESDAYS -- Story Time
Time: 10:45 – 11:15 a.m.
Ages: 3-6 years old
MONDAYS & THURSDAYS -- Toddler Time
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Ages: 1-3 years old
MONDAYS -- Chess Club
Time: 4:00 – 5 pm
Ages: Elementary ages and up
SECOND TUESDAY OF MONTH -- Chapter Chats
(Sept. 9, Oct 14, Nov 11, Dec 9)
Time: 7-8pm
Ages: 4th-6th graders
Details: Do you enjoy talking about books? Here’s your chance! Share your views with other kids who have read what you have!
To Find Out Which Books We'll Be Talking About Each Month: Call 817-788-7302
ON EXHIBIT:
FOYER DISPLAY:
GALLERY WALL:
HISTORICAL GALLERY:
To put your collection on exhibit at the Hurst Library: Contact the Information Specialist to fill out a form with your contact information and a description of your collection. To be considered, personal collections must meet the Library display criteria.
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McKINNEY MEMORIAL PUBLIC LIBRARY
Location: 101 E. Hunt Street
McKinney, TX 75069
972-547-READ
Contact: Wendy Turner – wturner@mckinneytexas.org
Program Calender: Click Here
For More Information: Contact Wendy Turner at 972-547-7319 or wturner@mckinneytexas.org
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TYLER PUBLIC LIBRARY
(all events are free and open to the public)
Location: 201 S. College Ave
One block southwest of the square in downtown Tyler
Contact: Evelyn James – 903-593-7323 – programs@tylertexas.com
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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”
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2. BOOK IT! READING PROGRAM
ENROLL TODAY FOR 2008-2009 PROGRAM
(individual families only may enroll)
Who Can Participate: Children in grades K-6.
The Book It! Reading Program is sponsored by Pizza Hut and runs from October 2008 through March 2009. It is available for children in grades kindergarten through sixth grade.
The reading program allows the children to earn free personal pan pizzas for meeting their reading goals.
Important Note: This year, the Book It! Program is changing its enrollment procedures for home schoolers. Support groups will no longer be able to register families for the program. Each family will need to enroll individually to be able to participate.
For Program Information: http://www.bookitprogram.com/enrollment/k6enroll.asp
To Enroll Your Homeschool: http://www.bookitprogram.com/enrollment/pub_priv_enroll.asp
Book It! Hotline: 1-800-426-6548
Hotline hours: 9:00 am - 4:00 p.m. CT (Monday through Friday)
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3. BRAUMS BOOK BUDDY PROGRAM
NOW ENROLLING FOR 2008-2009
The Braum's Book Buddy program gives children the opportunity to read for delicious prizes from Braum's!
Who Can Participate: Children in 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades.
Program Runs: September through end of school year.
Reward: Each child can earn up to six Braum's treats throughout the year including Single Dip Sundaes, Single Dip Ice Cream Cones and more! The best part...it costs nothing to participate in Braum's Book Buddy reading program. We're happy to offer this program to elementary schools and home schools absolutely free! At Braum's, we want to promote a positive attitude in children for a lifetime love of reading.
How does Book Buddy work?
Teachers distribute Braum's Book Buddy booklets to their students and then monitor book reading by placing a Book Buddy sticker in the student's booklet for each book read. When a student has read six books, the teacher rewards the student with a coupon for a free treat from Braum's!
To Enroll:
Send us a written request for enrollment information on school letterhead to:
Braum's Book Buddy Reading Program
PO Box 25429
OKC, OK 73125
Upon receipt of your written request (and upon meeting criteria) we will add your school to our mailing list and your school will automatically receive information on the program each year. Braum's Book Buddy program is a great way to encourage children to read and earn prizes at the same time!
For More Information:
www.braums.com/bookbuddy.asp
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4. 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
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5. TEXAS STATE FISH-ART CONTEST
ENTRIES DUE MARCH 31, 2009 (ongoing annual contest)
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:
http://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/
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6. 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
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7. USA MATHEMATICAL TALENT SEARCH
OCTOBER 14 --- Postmark Deadline for Solutions
To Register: Click here
If you participated in a previous year, register for Year 20 by logging in, using the same username/password as you did in the past. The first time you log in this year, you will be asked to verify that your information (address, email, grade, etc.) is still current, and make any necessary changes.
Round 1 Problems can be found: www.usamts.org
All USAMTS participants must fill out and sign an Entry/Permission form.
You must do this even if you participated in a previous year.
The form can be submitted by mail along with your first set of solutions, or separately by mail or fax anytime before the Round 1 entry deadline of October 14.
Details: If you have participated in the USAMTS in the past, you will notice a number of changes this year. In particular, solutions may be submitted by web upload or by mail. Emailed or faxed solutions will no longer be accepted. Please carefully read all of the Year 20 changes on the website.
Please note: You do not have to use LaTeX; you may handwrite your solutions if you wish.
Students using LaTeX to typeset their solutions are strongly encouraged to use the template files provided by the USAMTS. (Click here to learn how to use LaTeX.)
Handwritten Solutions Form: If you are handwriting solutions, you should use the USAMTS Solutions Form to write your solutions. Please note that you should print your name and USAMTS User ID on every page, along with the round and problem numbers. No piece of paper should have work for more than one problem.
We hope you enjoy the problems, and we look forward to your participation on the USAMTS this year.
Best regards,
--Dave Patrick
Director, USA Mathematical Talent Search
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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
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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 76180 817-427-6705
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.
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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. 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, 2008, and April 1, 2009. 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 them 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
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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/
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12. ANNUAL CONGRESSIONAL HIGH SCHOOL ART COMPETITION
The 2008 competition is over, but will be held again in Spring 2009.
"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.
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13. THEO IN PLANO OFFERING CLASSES FOR HOMESCHOOLERS
CLASSES OFFERED at THEO
FALL 2008 CLASSES
Register for the Fall!!
Classes offered in the following subject areas:
Math
Science
Music
Art
Business/Computer
Languages
Writing/Grammar/Literature
History/World Views
Drama
Sewing
Drafting
Yearbook
Speed Reading
Public Speaking
Location: 1301 Custer Road, Suite 703
Plano, TX 75075
For More Information: www.THEOsonline.org
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14. 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
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15. CHRISTIAN EDUCATORS RECOURCE CENTER IN ROWLETT
We've moved! Come see our new location in Rowlett!!
We are so excited to share God's blessing with you!
Our new location is:
4501 Rowlett Road, Suite 105
Rowlett, TX 75088
CLASSES AND ACHIEVEMENT TESTING AVAILABLE
Achievement Testing
The Christian Educators Resource Center (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
4501 Rowlett Rd., Suite 105
Rowlett, TX 75088
Contact: 972-475-4138
www.cerconline.org
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16. COOKE COUNTY COTILLION FOR HOME SCHOOLED TEENS!
Our mission is to provide our homeschooled teens an opportunity to learn etiquette, semi-formal dining etiquette, and ballroom dancing skills in a Christian environment. We meet 8 times per season with our last cotillion of the season a formal and usually at a special location.
Cost: $30 per family per year for registration. Each event is $15 per teen. We emphasize RSVP for each event. Teens are not required to pay for an event if they are unable to attend.
We also allow non-homeschooled teens. Each season we have had a couple of teens who were not homeschooled yet wished to participate in our cotillion. They have all been a blessing to our group.
This past year, our teens came from Denton, Sherman, Denison, Ft. Worth, Mansfield, Burleson, as well as Gainesville and the surrounding small communities.
Contact: Sara D. Bell at mommers@ntin.net or
940-668-7833 or 940-736-6792 (cell)
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17. CLASSES AT CREATIVE ARTS IN ACTION
Creative Arts in Action, located in Watauga, provides the best in curriculum, classes and classical theatre.
Ride Share with other parents
The Learning Center is pleased to announce: CAIAeRideShare
A quality education partnership at The CAIA Learning Center
PLUS Ride Sharing with other homeschooling Moms to reduce the expenses.
For More Information: 817-281-2293
http://www.creativeartsinaction.com/CAIAeRideShare.htm
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
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18. EASTFIELD COLLEGE
FALL 2008 HOMESCHOOL CLASSES:
Parent Homeschool Resources, 509322 EDUZ 1000 40003, Tuesdays, 6-8pm, C281, 10/7-11/14/08, 10 hours/5 classes, $50, Lisa Coleman
Global Warming (history or science), 509302 GELZ 1000 40001, Fridays, 2:15-4:15pm, N216, 9/12-12/12/08 (no class 11/28), 26 hours/13 classes, $130, Linda Click
Shakespeare Goes To The Movies, (English literature 511659 ENGZ 1000 40010, Tuesdays, 3-5pm, C116, 9/16-12/16/08 (no class 11/25), 26 hours/13 classes, $140, Ginger Hill-Hoffman
Research Skills English writing research paper), 509535 CRWZ 1000 40101, Fridays, 12-2pm, N216, 9/12-12/12/08 (no class 11/28/08), 26 hours/13 classes, $130, Delia Nedelcu
Adobe Photoshop CS3 (age 15+), 509235 ARTC 1090 41120, Friday, 8am-11am, L116, 9/5-11/21/08, (no class 11/28), 36 hours/12 classes, $150, David Danforth
FLASH 2D Animation (age 15+), 509242 ARTC 1090 41183, Fridays, 12-3pm, L116, 9/5-11/21/08, (no class 11/28), 36 hours/12 classes, $150, David Danforth
Internet & Web Page Design, 509138 TNLZ 1000 40003, Fridays, 9am-11am, L108D, 9/12-12/12/08 (no class 11/28), 26 hours/13 classes, $ 130, Robert Brenner
Writing, Grammar & Speech (beginner writing), 509456 DWRZ 1000 40103, Thursdays, 3-5pm, C116, 9/11-12/11/08, (no class 11/27/08), 26 hours/13 classes, $150,Delia Nedelcu
Spanish IA Teens, 509355 TNLZ 1000 40902, Thursdays, 1-3pm, L302, 9/18-12/18/08, (no class 11/27/08), 26 hours/ 13 classes, $130, Gayle Rhoads
Spanish IIA Teens, 509363 TNLZ 1000 40912, Wednesdays, 1-3pm, L302, 9/17-12/17/08 (no class 11/26/08), 26 hours/ 13 classes, $130, Gayle Rhoads
Spanish IIIA Teens, 509403 TNLZ 1000 40922, Mondays, 1-3pm, L302, 9/15-12/15/08, (no class 11/24/08), 26 hours/ 13 classes, $130, Gayle Rhoads
Middle School Earth Science, 509298 SIEZ 1000 40505, Fridays, 10am-12pm, C116 and lab C321, 9/12-12/12/08, 26 hours/13 classes, $140,Tamia Boyer
Middle School Life Science, 509304 SIEZ 1000 40515, Fridays, 2-4pm, C116, 3-4pm S315, 9/5-12/12/08 (no class 11/28), 28 hours/14 classes, $140, Alicia Hill
Middle School Chemistry & Physical Science, Pre- req math including decimals) 509301 SIEZ 1000 40604, Fridays, 8am-10am, C116, C320 (lab physics) & S 200 (lab chemistry), 9/5-12/12/08 (no class 11/28), 28 hours/14 classes, $140, Tamia Boyer
Biology Teens, (pre-req middle school chemistry)
509343 SIEZ 1000 40214, Mondays 9-10:30am in C116 and Fridays, 4-6pm in S315 lab, 9/8-12/15/08 (no class 11/24 thru 11/28/08), 45 hours, 30classes, $175, Alicia Hill
Chemistry for Teens, (Pre req Algebra I and middle school chemistry)
509331 SIEZ 1000 40303, Wednesdays, 9-11am in C116 and Fridays, 9-11am in lab S200, 9/3/08-12/10/08 (no class 11/24 thru 11/28/08), 56 hours/15 classes, $180, Alicia Hill
Pre-Algebra Math Teens, 509303 DMAZ 1000 40123, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11:30am-12:50pm, N216, 9/2-12/18/08 (skip 11/25 & 11/27), 40 hours/30 classes, $150, Carlos Chairez
Algebra I Teens, 509306 DMAZ 1000 40203, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1:30pm-2:50pm, N216, 9/2-12/18/08 (skip 11/25 & 11/27), 40 hours/30 classes, $150, Carlos Chairez
Algebra II Teens, 509310 DMAZ 1000 40302, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3-4:20pm, N216, 9/2-12/18/08 (skip 11/25 & 11/27), 40 hours/30 classes, $150, Carlos Chairez
Geometry Teens, 509313 DMAZ 1000 40412, Mondays and Wednesdays, 1:30-2:50pm, N216, 9/3-12/22/08 (skip 11/24 & 11/26 40 hours/30 classes, $150, Carlos Chairez
Pre-Calculus Teens, 509315 DMAZ 1000 40952, Mondays and Wednesdays, 3-4:20pm, N216, 9/3-12/22/08 (skip 11/24 & 11/26), 40 hours/30 classes, $150, Carlos Chairez
Math Magician Tutoring, 509320 DMAZ 1000 40962, Mondays and Wednesdays, 10:30am-12:30pm, N216, 10/6-12/17 (skip 11/24 & 11/26), 40 hours/20 classes, $150, Carlos Chairez
For Registration or Other Information: Contact Mary Ann Fitzsimmons at 972-860-7017 or Click Here to Email Mary Ann
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19. ENRICHMENT CLASSES, INC, IN LEWISVILLE
We are currently accepting applications for our Winter Semester 2009.
We offer classes from preschool through high school with a nursery available. In addition, we offer monthly activities for families to connect outside of classes.
JANUARY 9, 2009 – Classes Begin
FEBRUARY 13, 2009 – Mid-Semester Break
MARCH 20, 2009 – Classes End
Classes meet on Fridays
8:30am to 12:20 Noon
An optional fourth hour is available for high school students.
For More Information: Lesa Bledsoe at 940-455-7000
Website www.enrichmentclasses.org.
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20. 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. Our goal is to partner with Christian families as they carry out their primary role in the nurture and education of their children.
NEW HOME SCHOOL CLASSES:
Dyslexia Training Program for home school students!
The Texas Scottish Rite Hospital Dyslexia Training Program (DTP) is being offered for home school students with dyslexia beginning this fall, 2008 at Faith Christian Academy in McKinney. The DTP program was developed by the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital in Dallas as a response to the need to provide dyslexia intervention throughout Texas and around the world. The DTP introduces reading and writing skills to students through a two-year cumulative program and emphasizes intense phonetic analysis of written language and is presented in a structured, multisensory sequence of: Alphabet, Dictionary skills, Reading, Spelling, Cursive handwriting, Listening, Language history, Listening and reading comprehension, Review activities.
Each lesson is one hour long and the program is a two-year program, with three schedules of lessons. Included in the DTP are various supplemental materials needed to implement the program, which are covered by a supply fee.
Maximum # of students: 6 per class. Will add classes as needed
Days/Time: Call to schedule.
Contact for Pricing and Enrollment Information:
972-658-2348 (summer phone)
Or e-mail tgore@fcamckinney.com
High School English: Writing/Literature (for English credit)
Taught by Bev Cook
This class is designed for High School students, combining both literature (Teaching the Classics) and writing (The Institute of Excellence in Writing). Students will develop proficiency in writing as they study and utilize the IEW method. This classical system stresses modeling and builds a firm foundation of specific writing skills and techniques. As well as developing/improving their writing skills, students will explore literature systematically as they learn to analyze character, plot, theme, and other literary techniques. They will also be required to do a research paper during the year to become familiar with MLA format and the documenting of sources. Required readings of classic novels will be the basis for their literary writings. This class will meet the requirements for 1 High School English Credit.
Prerequisite: 1 Year of IEW Writing preferred but not required.
Maximum # of students: 15
Cost: $65/month + $25 supply fee
When: Thursdays from August 18, 2008 - May 21, 2009
10:00 AM – 12:00 noon
Middle School-Grades 6-8th: Writing Course (IEW) Institute of Excellence in Writing
Taught by Bev Cook
This class is designed for students who have a simple understanding of grammar, i.e. know verbs, adjectives, adverbs, and sentence structure. Using the IEW method, students will learn proven techniques needed to build a solid writing foundation. At the end of the year, they will know 5 IEW decorations, 5 IEW sentence openers, 5 IEW dress-ups, 50 new vocabulary words, plus have experience writing short reports/essays, narrative stories, mini-research papers, and creative writing assignments. In addition, they will learn valuable organization skills by keeping a class notebook.
Prerequisite: None
Maximum # of students: 6
Cost: $55/month + $25 supply fee
When: Thursdays from August 18, 2008 - May 21, 2009
1:30-3:00 p.m.
OTHER HOMESCHOOL CLASSES OFFERED
Academic classes through 8th grade – offered on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Classes include Government (A Beka), English (IEW), Algebra I, Earth & Space Science with Labs; Spring 2009: Earth, Spanish I, SAT Prep; Stock Market Game, Speech, Bible, Study Skills, Music Multi-Media Production class
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.
TESTING SERVICES
Call for details: 972-562-5323 ext. 22
For More Information:
Contact Toni Gore at tgore@fcamckinney.org or 972-562-5323 ext. 22
Location: Faith Christian Academy
115A Industrial Boulevard
McKinney, TX
www.fcamckinney.com
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21. FABULOUS FRIDAYS IN LITTLE ELM
Zooniversity and Karate Classes for Homeschoolers in Little Elm.
FRIDAYS
SEPTEMBER 5 - NOVEMBER 21
Time: 10 am - 10:45 am - Zooniversity (runs 10 weeks, with Oct. 10 & 24 off)
11 am - 11:45 am - Karate
(choose one or both)
Grades: K-5
Location: Sidekicks Karate Studio
2700 E. Eldorado Parkway, Suite 207
Little Elm, TX 75068
972-294-8100
Cost: Karate: $50/month; no registration fees; $25 for optional uniforms
Zooniversity: $100
Deposit: Karate: $5 (will be applied toward tuition)
Zooniversity: $40 (will count toward November's tuition)
For More Information: Jennifer McBride at Jenjas5@yahoo.com
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22. HOME EDUCATORS RESOURCE ENRICHMENT CLASSES
The Home Educators Resource sells a large array of new and used books and curriculum, plus they offer classes and other resources to homeschool families.
2008-2009 Classes Offered:
MONDAY CLASSES
Art
Secondary Drawing with Art
Saxon Algebra II
Saxon Algebra I
Advanced Math
Pre-K & Kindergarten Montessori Class
Experience Texas! Past, Present and Future
World History One-Oh-Fun!
Creative Journaling through Scrapbooking (High School Elective)
TUESDAY CLASSES
Robotics
Basic Latin
Art
Art (High School Elective)
Fantastic French
U.S. History 20th Century
Our American Heritage - US History
Elementary Spanish
Exploring Creation with Zoology I: Flying Creatures
Exploring Creation with Zoology III: Land Animals
Exploring Creation with General Science (with labs)
Apologia Botany & Zoology II (with Labs)
WEDNESDAY CLASSES
Exploring Creation with General Science (with labs)
World History
Biology with Labs
Chemistry with Labs
Speech (1 semester) - High School Elective
World Views Year 1 (3 High School Credits)
World Views Year II (8-1/2 High School Credits)
Starting Points (3 High School Credits)
BJU Pre-Algebra
BJU Algebra II
BJU Algebra I
BJU Geometry
THURSDAY CLASSES
Spanish II
Spanish I
Exploring Creation with Astronomy
English III & IV (Junior & Senior)
English Middle School
English I & II (Freshman & Sophomore)
French I
Taste of Shakespeare (one semester)
Keys to Algebra
US Government
US History
Integrated Physics and Chemistry (IPC) with Labs
Human Anatomy & Physiology with Extensive Labs (Biology II)
Reading Fluency & Comprehension (Special Needs)
For Class Descriptions, Fees and Other Information:
http://homeeducatorsresource.com/news/
Location:
1288 W. Main Street Suite 203
Lewisville, TX 75067
972-956-8320
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
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23. 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
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24. HOMESCHOOL HERITAGE DOMUS SCHOLA
This homeschool group is based out of Heritage Family Church in Keller.
For more information: Corina Treece at corina@familychurch.org
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25. LEGACY HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT PROGRAM AT FIRST BAPTIST EULESS
Science, History, and Fine Arts Classes
Grade: K-8
Contact: 817-267-3313 ext 267
Email: legacy@discoveryfirst.org
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26. HOMESCHOOL MUSIC THEATER WORKSHOP AT PFAMILY ARTS
PFAMILY ARTS introduces an all new class for home school students!
Workshop students will study Acting, Dance and Vocal curriculum based in classical techniques from Stanislavsky, Meisner, Alexander and all dance styles incorporated on the musical theatre stage such as Fosse, Tap, Ballet, Jazz and Modern. The Workshop is meant to be a fun, yet highly educational performing arts class for the serious student and beginner. The Workshop will present a session ending presentation at the end of the Fall Session and a full scale musical in the Spring Session. Spring Musical will be decided based on class enrollment. Seeking home schooled musicians for pit orchestra and crew (stage manager, running crew, costume design, set design, etc.) for Spring production.
The goal of the Home School Music Theatre Workshop is to provide the home school student their own theatre program of classes and performance opportunities. PFAMILY ARTS Academy is the only performing arts school in the greater Dallas-Ft. Worth area that is staffed by Broadway veterans, local professional actors and university faculty members, providing student’s unparalleled instruction. PFAMILY ARTS is a 501(c)(3) not for profit arts association.
Fall Session: September 2-December 13.
Home School Music Theatre Workshop: Tue/Thu 1:00-4:00
Cost: $1,440
Early Enrollment Discount of 10%: July 21-August 16.
Multi-Family Discount of 10%.
For More Information: 972.378.1234 or info@pfamilyarts.org
Location: PFAMILY ARTS
4017 Preston Road, #544
LakeSide Market
Plano, TX 75093
Contact: 972-378-1234
www.pfamilyarts.org
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27. TARRANT COUNTY COLLEGE HOME SCHOOL CLASSES -- FREE MATH ASSESSMENT
Registration Open for Fall 2008 Classes
Early registration under way for fall classes for homeschool high schoolers.
A variety of science and math classes are being offered at three different campuses in the Arlington/Fort Worth area.
REGISTRATION ENDS AUGUST 20!!!
Classes Offered Fall 2008:
SE Campus:
Algebra I
Algebra II
Geometry
NW Campus:
Algebra I
Algebra II
Geometry
NE Campus:
Biology
FREE math assessment tests offered upon request.
Cost equates to $3.50 an hour, $166 for entire semester including book.
For More Information: Call Maurine Amend at 972-660-8414
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28. VENTURE HOME SCHOOL CLASSES
Registration Open for Fall 2008 Classes
High School Classes Offered:
Biology/Lab
American Government/Economics
Effective Writing for a Purpose
Algebra 1, 2, and Geometry
Spanish 1B
Apologetics/Hermeneutics/Book of Ephesians
World Geography/World History
Health/Physical Education
For More Information: Contact 817-788-5248 or justiss5@sbcglobal.net
or fbccolleyville.com (navigate to Children's/Sonshine)
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29. YMCA OF IRVING HOME SCHOOL CLASSES
MONDAYS & THURSDAYS
Classes Offered:
Spanish, Art/Painting, Youth & Government, Science, Basketball, Drama, Volleyball, Y-Achievers, FIT Squad
Times: 9:30 – 12:25 (Times vary by class)
Ages: 5-18 (Ages are grouped: 5-8; 9-11; 12-14; 14-18)
For More Information: Contact Doug Fox at 972-986-8898 or 214-460-6337 (mobile)
Or by email at dougf.irving@ymcadallas.org
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30. 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 – September 17-21
This is their annual fall book sale.
Time: Members: Wed: 3 p.m. - 8 p.m. (can join at the door)
General Public: Thurs: 3 p.m. - 8 p.m.;
Fri/Sat: 10 a.m. - 5 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
Books: Over 50,000 items; most hardbacks and trade paperbacks are $1; mass market fiction paperbacks $6/flat. Cash or checks only.
Sunday is half-price day.
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WYLIE – September 20
Time: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Location: Smith Public Library at American National Bank
301 S. Highway 78
972-442-7566
Books: 5,000 books; 100% donated; 50% hardcover; sorted; not picked over; no buyer restrictions; .25 - $1
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ENNIS – September 25-27
Time: Fri: 10am. - 6p.m.; Sat: 10a.m. - 2p.m
Preview: Thurs: 10 - 8 $5 (Friends free)
Location: Ennis Public Library
502 West Ennis Avenue
Books: 3,000+ books; 95% donated; 60% hardcover; sorted; not picked over; no buyer restrictions; .50 - $2
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WICHITA FALLS – October 4
Time: Sat: 9a.m. - 5 p.m.
Location: Wichita Falls Public Library
600 11st Street
940-767-0868 x248
Books: 3,000 books; 100% donated; 85% hardcover; .50 - $2
Half-price sale on most books 1st Saturday of each month
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DENTON – October 11
Time: Sat: 10a.m. - 4 p.m.
Location: North Branch Library
3020 N. Locust St
ljj14@aol.com
Cost: $1 admission (Friends of Library and children under 12 free)
Books: 6,000 books; 35% donated; 75% hardcover; .50 - $1
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EULESS – October 11-12
Time: Sat: 10a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sun: 1-3pm
Location: Euless Public Library
201 N. Ector Drive
817-685-1679
Books: 15,000 books; 50% donated; 50% hardcover; .50 paperbacks; $1 hardcovers
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GRAND PRAIRIE – October 15-19
Time: Wed/Thu: 10-8; Fri: 10-5; Sat: 9-5; Sun: 1-5
Location: Main Library
901 Conover Drive
972-262-8015
Books: 30,000 books; 90% donated; 90% hardcover; .25 - $2; Sunday half-price
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ARLINGTON – October 22-25
Time: Wed: 5-8pm ($2 donation at door)
Thurs/Fri: 10am-8pm (free admission)
Sun: 10am-5pm (free admission)
Location: St. Stephen United Methodist Church
1800 W. Randol Mill Rd.
Sheriq@aol.com or DiVFeld@aol.com
Directions: Take I-30 to Fielder Rd. exit. Exit south and go to Randol Mill Rd, about a mile. Turn right (west) onto Randol Mill. St. Stephen's will be another mile down on the left, across from Randol Mill Park.
Books: Over 20,000 books; 100% donated by the community; sorted into over 45 categories; sale benefits educational grants for women and local literacy programs.
Request catalog by E-mail now if you are new to the sale. It will be snail-mailed about 2-3 weeks before 10/22. Not available by E-mail, so please give us your USPS address when you e-mail: Skoorbac@aol.com
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GRANBURY – October 23-26
Time: Sat: 9am-6pm; Sun: 1-4pm
Location: Hood County Library
222 N. Travis St.
817-776-154
joandty@lakegranbury.com
Books:
20,000 books and media; 90% donated; 80% hardcover;
sorted; not picked over; no buyer restrictions;
.25 - $1; Sunday $5/box
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31. 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
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32. CREATIVE ARTS IN ACTION
Creative Arts in Action, located in Watauga, provides the best in curriculum, classes and classical theatre.
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
For List of Classes:
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33. HOME EDUCATORS RESOURCE
The Home Educators Resource sells a large array of new and used books and curriculum, plus they offer classes and other resources to homeschool families.
Location:
1288 W. Main Street Suite 203
Lewisville, TX 75067
972-956-8320
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
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34. 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.
NATURE AWARENESS DAY CAMPS
Homeschoolers and Natural Learners we invite you all out to Camp Tonkawa, for time in Nature once a month at our Nature Awareness Day Camps. Sometimes we get so busy with our curriculums that we don't take the time to learn "in," not just "about" the natural world. Schedule a day each month for a fun learning session with us! Car pool with your friends to beat the gasoline prices! Don't forget to bring your lunches and your Nature Journals (sketch pads or notebooks), so that you can remember the information from the day, and further investagate any topics that inspired you.
Great for Enrichment Classes, Co-op Classes, Scout Groups, and School Field Trips. We can schedule different dates for large groups and work out group rates!
SEPTEMBER 18 - Artists Inspired by Nature
Looking at artists who were inspired by nature. Plus Fun Nature Art projects.
OCTOBER 15 & 16 - Mankind as Caretakers of the Earth
How we can be a positive influence on the earth.
NOVEMBER 12 & 13 - Endangered Wildlife
What is on the verge of becoming extinct and why.
DECEMBER 10 & 11 - World in Winter
How plants and animals adapt to surviving the winter.
JANUARY 14 & 15
FEBRUARY 11 & 12
MARCH 11 & 12
APRIL 15 & 16
MAY 14 & 15
Time: 9:30am - 2:30pm. You are welcome to stay at the camp until 3pm, for free time to explore and play with new friends.
Costs: $15 per camp, if pre registering by mail, $18 at the camp (walk ins welcome), $10 for 4 year olds. Parents and Under 4 Free.
Save with the Semester Rate: Pay for at least 4 camps in one semester to get a $12/camp rate.
ORGANIC GARDENING - FALL DAY CAMP
SEPTEMBER 22
Rain Date: September 23
RSVP ASAP: 903-429-6483
HORSEMANSHIP DAY CAMP
OCTOBER 8
Please call for more details: 903-429-6483
TROT HORSEMANSHIP DAY CAMP
OCTOBER 4
Please call for details: 903-429-6483
This camp is for those who have participated in a horsemanship day camp and want to return to ride and learn more.
PRIMITIVE SURVIVAL CAMPS
Come on out to Camp Tonkawa this fall, to learn the Tom Brown method of surviving with minimal resources. Prepare yourself for any life situation and build your self esteem by knowing that you can take care of yourself and your loved ones. This is set up as teaching workshops and is NOT an actual survival situations.
OCTOBER 17 - 19 -- Primitive Survival Combo 1 & 2
Time: 9:30am Oct 17 though 2:30 p.m. Oct 19
Cost: $125 adults - 17 and under $100
Group and family rates available!
NOVEMBER 8 - 9 -- Primitive Survival 3 Extended Wilderness Living
Time: 9:30am Nov 8 through 2:30 pm Nov 9
Cost: $60 adults - 17 and under $45
Group and family rates available!
PRIMITIVE SURVIVAL DAY CAMPS
Sign up for one or all 5, to learn everything taught in Primitive Survival 1 & 2.
Time: All camps are held from 10am - 3pm on the following dates:
SEPTEMBER 21 Food - Tracking / Traps / Snares
OCTOBER 26 Edible Plants / Primitive Cooking
NOVEMBER 16 Shelter
DECEMBER 14 Fire / Bow Drills
Cost: See website www.camptonkawatexas.com
Pre-registration required.
Minimum and Maximums are enforced, so register early!!
ATTN: BOY SCOUT TROOPS!!!
Camp Tonkawa is a Great Place to Earn Merit Badges!
Please consider us in your planning meetings this year! Also, we would greatly appreciate, if you would forward this on to any other troops that you think might be interested in working on their outdoor skills this year.
Hope to see you all soon!
Wilderness Survival Camp
Our level one camp, upon completion, will not only earn you your merit badge but you will learn to make a Bow Drill Fire! All must have a Tote & Chip because you will be working with your knives.
We have two camps scheduled where individual boys can come or schedule a date for your troop. Group rates available.
Scheduled dates: Jan 17-18, 2009.
This is our most popular camp for the Boy Scouts!!! The leaders enjoy it too!
Horsemanship Camp
Monthly we have a scheuled Day Camp where individuals or small groups can earn this merit badge. If your whole troop wants to come out and/or do a week-end camp out with our horses, we will be happy to schedule a date for you.
Indian Lore Camp
Come and get started on this extensive merit badge, we get you off to a great start. Scheduled dates Nov 1-2, 2008 and April 4-5, 2009 or schedule a date for your troop. Group rates available!
Hiking and Backpacking Camp
Give you the Basics and set you up on a training program to prepare you for a trek of your own.
Scheduled dates May 30-31 or schedule a date for your troop. Group rates available!
Nature Related merit badges:
Fish and Wildlife Management
Fishing
Insect Study
Mammal Study
Reptile and Amphibian Study
Schedule a week-end camp out with us to work on any of the above listed. We can customize the camp for your troop.
Family camps available for the Cub Scouts and Webeloes!
Please help us spead the word to these Packs, so that we can help them earn any outdoor skills needed for rank advancement and belt loops.
For More Information:
Contact April at camptonkawa@bigplanet.com or 903-429-6483
www.camptonkawatexas.com
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35. DALLAS ARBORETUM EVENTS
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.
Admission:
$8 for adults
$7 for seniors (65+)
$5 for children (ages 3-12)
Free for children ages 2 and under.
Senior Citizen Thursday Discount: Seniors get in for just $5 with photo ID and can receive 20% discount at gift shop.
Onsite parking:
$5 per vehicle
Valet Parking: $10 for non-members; $8 for members
Offsite parking is available at selected locations during peak visitation. Shuttle busses transport guests directly to the Arboretum ticket booth.
Discount tickets are available for groups of 20 or more.
Advance registration is needed.
For Group Sales Information: Click Here
Located:
8525 Garland Road
Dallas, TX 75219
214-515-6500
www.dallasarboretum.org
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36. FORT WORTH NATURE CENTER AND REFUGE PROGRAMS
SEPTEMBER 20 – Fall Migration
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Admission: $5 with paid admission
As the days become longer and the season begins to change, so do the species of birds we have at the
Nature Center. It is at this time we prepare for fall migrants to come through and visit or stay for the winter. Join us as we hike around the Nature Center looking for these new arrivals
SEPTEMBER 21 – Canoe Fest
Time: Noon - 4pm
Admission: $5 with paid admission
Come out and enjoy a bit of canoeing on your own on the quiet waters around Greer Island. Canoes,
paddles, and lifejackets provided. Children must be 5 years or older and accompanied by a parent or guardian. Parents must sign a liability waiver for minor children.
No registration required - first come, first served.
SEPTEMBER 21 – Wild Plum Hike
Time: 1pm - 3pm
Admission: $5 with paid admission
Blooms of the wild plums are not in view, but it is still a nice trail to hike. You will have a chance of
seeing the plums or ecanopy from the sun.
Location: 9601 Fossil Ridge Road
Fort Worth, TX 76135
For More Information about these or other events: 817-237-1111
http://www.fwnaturecenter.org
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).
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37. FOSSIL RIM HOME SCHOOL CLASSES AND EVENTS
SEPTEMBER 22 -- Conservation in Action Day
Time: 9:00-2:30ish.
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-guided tour of Fossil Rim.
To Register: homeschool@fossilrim.org or call 254-897-2960 ext. 216
OCTOBER 8 -- Dissection Lab
Time: 9am - 12 Noon
Details: Think your kids need to know how to do a dissection, but don’t want the mess on your kitchen table? Let Fossil Rim take care of the mess by doing a morning dissection lab and class about light, color and lenses. Since it is “Discount Wednesday,” you may opt to take advantage of the savings and drive through the park in your own vehicle, at your own pace, after the class.
To Register: homeschool@fossilrim.org or call 254-897-2960 ext. 216
OCTOBER 20 -- Species in Peril: Wolf Conservation Class + Tour
Time: 10:00-2:30ish.
Break for Lunch: 12:00-1:00
Guided Tour of Fossil Rim: 1:00-2:30ish
Details: Learn about Fossil Rim’s wolves, about wolf conservation efforts, and what you can do to make a difference! 2-hour morning class, followed by a picnic lunch (remember to bring one!), and a guided tour of Fossil Rim.
To Register: homeschool@fossilrim.org or call 254-897-2960 ext. 216
NOVEMBER 3 -- Nature Hike Class + Tour
Time: 10:00-2:30ish.
Break for Lunch: 12:00-1:00
Guided Tour of Fossil Rim: 1:00-2:30ish
Details: Take a guided hike with a naturalist and learn about some of our native flora and fauna in the morning, share a picnic lunch, then take a guided tour of Fossil Rim.
To Register: homeschool@fossilrim.org or call 254-897-2960 ext. 216
NOVEMBER 21 -- "Stargazer Paul" Derrick Astronomy Event
Time: 7pm - 9pm
Details: Mr. Derrick returns with a Power Point program entitled, “Constellations of Fall.” This will be followed by a laser pointer “Sky Tour,” and Telescope Viewing using Mr. Derrick’s 8-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope.
To Register: homeschool@fossilrim.org or call 254-897-2960 ext. 216
For more Details: www.fossilrim.com/visiting/home_school.html
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38. HAVEN'S HORSES HORSEMANSHIP & OUTDOOR EDUCATION CLASSES AT CHRIST'S HAVEN
Christ's Haven is offering homeschoolers Christian Horsemanship and Outdoor Education programs at their facility in Keller, Texas. The classes will be held during the day, while their foster children are at school.
Monday - Fridays at 9am, 10:30am, 12:30pm, 2pm
September 1 through December 13
Thursdays at 10:30am and 4pm; Mondays at 4pm
Christian Horsemanship
Ages 4-18
Cost: $25/child
Class Length: 1 hour, 15 min.
Details: First visit is free! Spiritual Values are incorporated into each Horsemanship Lesson through group devotions and activities. It's more than a basic riding lesson! Christian Horsemanship unites children and inspires them to grow in the areas of Horsemanship Skills (grooming, saddling, feeding, groundwork, riding and horse anatomy); Spiritual and Personal Growth, and Communication Skills.
Outdoor Adventure
Ages 7-14
Cost: $20/class
Course Length: 1 hour, 15 min.
Details: First visit is free! Teaches children about God's creation in an outdoor spiritual setting. Activities include: day hikes, fishingm, flying kites, and much more! Outdoor Adventure classes focus on: Science in the Outdoors, Servant Leadership, Self Expression, Self Reflection and Silent Retreats.
Discount Prices available for group rates.
Please call for details.
Location: 4150 Keller-Haslet Road
Keller, TX 76248
For More Information: Kristin Kirkland at 817-925-1982 or email her here
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39. THE HEARD MUSEUM - HOMESCHOOL CLASSES
These Homeschool Classes will introduce your student to the Natural Sciences. Students will experience learning through classroom activities, outdoor field investigations, laboratory science, small group activities and take-home study packets.
Each course curriculum is developed by the Heard Museum's education staff who strive to recognize and meet the needs of home school families.
All curricula are based on current scientific theory.
Thirteen Weeks of Classes from
SEPTEMBER 16 - DECEMBER 18 (Tuesdays or Thursdays)
Ages: 5-14 (as of September 1, 2008)
Time: 1-3 p.m. on either Tuesdays or Thursdays
Cost: $205 (museum members)
$225 (non-members)
Monthly payment plans are available
10% sibling discounts available
Registration Deadline: September 1
Classes:
Which Ology is Which?
Age: 5 year olds
Description: Young scientists are introduced to some of the most interesting branches of scientific study - ornithology (birds), herpetology (amphibians and reptiles) and entomology (insects) are just a few of the "ologies" that will be explored on the sanctuary and through our specimens and live animals.
Discover Your World: Plants
Ages: 6-7 year olds
Description: This class promotes an appreciation and understanding of plants and their importance to us and the natural world. Students will grow their own plants and discover the many different kinds of plants on the sanctuary.
Ecosystem Explorations
Ages: 8-9 year olds
Description: Students will examine how plants and animals live together and form amazing systems that help nature work. Observations of living communities on our sanctuary and how they are connected will be the primary focus of this study.
Biomes of the World
Ages: 10-12 year olds
Description: Our Earth includes a variety of biomes, from rainforests and deserts to the mountains and oceans. This class will examine and compare these large geographical and ecological regions as well as the diversity of their wildlife.
Earth Trek II – Understanding the Planet
Ages: 10-12 year olds
Description: Continuing Miss Judy’s last series of classes, this study will include geography, geology, meteorology and ecology of the Earth to understand how and why our planet functions for our survival. This series concludes with Earth Trek III in spring 2009.
Ecology Experiences
Ages: 12-14 year olds
Description: Taught by Jill DeVito who holds a Ph.D. in Biology and an M.S. in Zoology. “Dr. Jill’s” full-time position is Lecturer in the Department of Biology at the University of Texas at Arlington. In this class, students will gain hands on, field and lab experience emphasizing use of the scientific method. We will explore the interactions between a variety of living organisms and their environment.
To register and for more information: smann@heardmuseum.org
972-562-5566 x237
For More Information: 972-562-5566
Location: One Nature Place
McKinney, TX 75069
www.heardmuseum.org
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40. HERITAGE FARMSTEAD MUSEUM -- PLANO
The Museum Grounds are Open Year-Round (Except Mondays and Holidays)
Tuesday - Sunday 9:00am - 4:30pm
Upcoming Events:
OCTOBER 5 -- ANNUAL HARVEST FESTIVAL & CRAFT FAIR
Time: 1pm - 5pm
Cost: $8/adults; $5/children & seniors; Free 4 years and under
Details: Please join us for this fun and exciting event featuring:
E-Flat Porch Band
Refreshments provided by Starbucks Coffee Company
Blacksmithing demonstrations by Master Blacksmith Kelly Kring
Soap making demonstrations by Ancient Elements Soap Company
Pottery making demonstrations by Tony Holman, Master Potter
North Forty Storytellers Guild, (formerly Richardson Storytellers)
Turn-of-the-century games and children’s crafts
Mule pulled wagon rides
Arts and crafts vendors and much more.
NOVEMBER 15 -- American Scout Day
Register your troop by November 5
Time: 9am-Noon or 1pm-4pm
Cost: $8/scout (includes patch); 2 adults free per troop; $6/additional adults
$3 for additional Scout Day patches
Details: Bring your whole troop and experience Pioneer life on the Texas Blackland Prairie.
Includes: tours of the 14-room historic Farrell-Wilson house
Self-Discovery stations in the Pole Barn
Make Nineteenth Century Crafts
Play historic games
Explore 4 beautiful acres with 12 original outbuildings
See the farmstead animals.
DECEMBER 5 & 6 -- Lantern Light: Victorian Christmas
Time: 5pm - 9pm
Cost: $8/adults; $5/children under 5 & seniors
Details: Please join us for this fun and exciting event featuring:
Tours of the Historic Victorian Home
Entertainment by the E-Flat Porch Band
Live music performed by local youth groups
Refreshments provided by Starbucks Coffee Company
Demonstrations by Master Blacksmith Kelly Kring
Storytelling by the North Forty Storytellers
Turn-of-the-Century crafts and games for children
Mule drawn wagon rides
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 or e-mail lmorley@heritagefarmstead.org
NOTE: Prepayment and registration are required. Registrations are welcome until Wed noon for the Friday program that same week. All fees are non-refundable.
SEPTEMBER 19-- Gardening and Harvesting
Children will be introduced to simple concepts of seeds, growing plants and picking ready-to-eat
foods.
OCTOBER 3 -- Dig This!
Children will be introduced to simple concepts such as: archaeology, earth’s layers, artifact, and terms “tool or
toy?”
OCTOBER 10 -- Pumpkins and Gourds
Children will be introduced to simple concepts of squash plants, how they grow, and what’s inside
FRIDAYS AT THE FARMSTEAD (Programs last 90 minutes)
For Children Ages 6-12
Time: 1:30 p.m.
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.
SEPTEMBER 19 – Gardening and Harvesting.
Children will experience topics of discovery relating to growing seasons, laying out a
garden and gathering crops for consumption.
OCTOBER 3 – Dig This!
Children will experience topics of discovery including searching for a midden pile, designing a test pit, and
identifying archaeology tools.
OCTOBER 17 – Continuity and Change on the Farm
Children will experience topics of discovery related to the current house theme:
Continuity and Change on the Farm
OCTOBER 31 – History of Halloween
Children will experience topics of discovery surrounding the history of the October day and traditional
activities of the early 1900 century.
NOVEMBER 7 – Texas: Our Great State
Children will experience topics of discovery focusing on Texas; its geography, history, culture, and
cowboys/cowgirls.
NOVEMBER 14 – Cooking for the Holidays
Children will experience topics of discover relating to turn-of-the-century recipes, measuring
tools and baking.
DECEMBER 5 – Preparing for Winter
Children will experience topics of discovery surrounding each family member’s responsibility for
preparing for colder weather.
DECEMBER 19 – Victorian Christmas
Children will experience topics of discovery relating to games, crafts and food preparation for a
Victorian party.
Tours Available
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.
Group Tours:
Time: Each program lasts about 1 1/2 hours
Available by appointment only.
Cost: $5/child; $3/adult chaperones
Depending on the size of the group, up to two teachers can attend free of charge
Tour Themes:
Farmer Duck -- This pre-school program is designed for children ages 3-6 and follows the story Farmer Duck written by Martin Waddell (about a lazy farmer who doesn’t work and a duck that does all the chores around the farm), a discussion and hands-on experiences at 3 – 10 different stations, depending on the program/needs of group. Costumed Docent(s) lead children in groups of 10 through each hands-on activity.
On the Wagon Trail -- Designed for elementary school- age participants, this program focuses on the thoughts and activities of a 10 year-old boy as he leaves his home in Illinois to move with his family to Plano at the turn-of-the-century. Activities include packing a wagon, riding the wagon to different spots on the property and rein-acting the diary entries. Two costumed Docents lead children along this trip. Each program is volunteer-led and lasts about 1 ½ hour long. Best with a small group, 8-10 children.
Tag-Along Tom -- This costumed volunteer-led program introduces the children to the fictional character of Tom Sawyer while experienced chores around the farm. Designed for children ages 6-12, activities include white-washing the side of the Pole Barn, gathering water from the creek for the Children’s Garden, and playing turn-of-the-century games.
What's Inside a Barn -- Features the elements of a barn; how they are built, their daily use, and seasonal activities farm families celebrated inside a barn. A craft is included. Designed for children 3-6.
Traditional Children's Tour -- Offers children an inside look at the Farrell-Wilson house and out-buildings; its theme, life at the turn-of-the-century, and participants experience three early 19th century chores. Leaders are dressed in period costume. Designed for children ages 6-16.
Living on the Prairie -- This program is designed to give children a variety of hand-on experiences revolving around the four fictional characters in Patricia MacLachlan’s book, Sarah, Plain and Tall. Children will visit the one-room schoolhouse, create an original watercolor, compare and contrast prairie and coastal landscapes and practice critical thinking skills. Program is led by costumed Docents and s designed for children ages 8-12
For More Information: 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.
VOLUNTEER GARDEN HELPER AND TOUR DOCENTS NEEDED:
The Heritage Farmstead Museum is looking for a volunteer garden helper and tour docents.
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
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41. SHARKAROSA WILDLIFE RANCH
OCTOBER 14 --- WILD Home School Day
Time: 9am - 4pm
Cost: $4/person; Free for ages 2 and under
OCTOBER 25 -- First Annual Fall Festival
Time: 10am - 5pm
Cost: $8/person; Free for ages 2 and under
Details: No scary stuff, just fun!! Along with our regular open to the public day activities, we'll have:
Hay Maze
Ranch Resident Costume Parade
Contest where YOU judge the animals' costumes!
And a ton of other fun activities!
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)
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42. TEXAS DISCOVERY GARDENS
Texas Discovery Gardens is a year-round urban oasis located at historic Fair Park. The gardens showcase beautiful native and adapted plants that are grown using sustainable methods that help to protect the environment. The first certified organic public garden in the state, Texas Discovery Gardens offers educational programs and exhibits that teach children and adults how to provide vital habitat for butterflies and other native Texas wildlife, add beauty, conserve water and restore the natural environment in urban areas.
Featured Exhibit:
SEPTEMBER 13 - OCTOBER 24 --Live Butterfly Exhibit: "Skies of Butterflies"
Exhibit Entrance Fee: $3/person plus regular Garden admission
During State Fair (Sept 26 - Oct 19): $3.00 per person plus State Fair entrance fee.
Garden admission is free during State Fair dates.
Garden & Exhibit Hours: 10am - 5pm; Last ticket sold at 4:30 pm
During State Fair (Sept 26-Oct 19): 10 am to 6 pm.; Last ticket sold at 5:30 pm.
Details: See eye to eye with a butterfly during the Skies of Butterflies exhibit at Texas Discovery Gardens. This seasonal butterfly house contains 200+ colorful native Texas butterflies like Giant Swallowtails, Pipevine Swallowtails, Monarchs, Sulphurs, Question Marks, and more.
As you walk through the 30’ by 48’ free standing flight cage, closely observe butterflies as they feed on nectar from the blossoms of both native and tropical plants. Learn which species enjoys rotting fruit! Find out when butterflies roost (go to sleep). Be captivated by fast and furious flyers! An emergence box filled with uniquely camouflaged and vibrantly colored chrysalis will reveal the last mysterious step in the life stages of the butterfly.
Afterwards, visit the Butterfly Display Garden and learn how you can attract these fascinating creatures to your yard by using the right plants. We will have monarch tagging presentations each day.
Regular Admission & Hours:
$3 for adults
$2 for seniors (60+)
$1.50 for children 3-12yrs
free for children under 3yrs.
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm
Last ticket sold at 4:30 pm.
Hours/Admission During State Fair (Sept. 26 - Oct. 19):
Garden & Exhibit Hours: 10 am to 6 pm.
Last ticket sold at 5:30 pm.
State Fair admission applies; Garden entrance is free.
For more info: 214.428.7476 ext. 23.
Location: 3601 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. in Fair Park.
Fair Park istwo miles east of downtown Dallas just south of Interstate 30.
THIRD SATUDAYS – Garden Walks
Garden Walks are a guided tour on various topics. Unless noted, Garden Walks are on the third Saturday of the month and last one hour.
Cost: Free with garden admission.
NOVEMBER 1 – Trees of Texas: A Native Primer
Time: 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Cost: FREE with Garden Admission
Join us as we teach you how to go native! Local trees are hardier and more drought-resistant. They also attract birds and other wildlife to your yard. We'll tour the garden in search of native trees and give you pointers on proper planting techniques.
DECEMBER 6 – For the Birds
Time: 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Cost: FREE with Garden Admission
It’s all hands-on as we learn how to garden for wildlife in the winter. Bring the kids and work on fun projects to feed birds and native wildlife during the big chill. We’ll tell you what plants to add to your garden that will attract birds all year long.
Pre-Registration is required.
SCOUTING PROGRAMS:
Girl Scouts: We offer 'Try-Its' and 'Let's Get Outdoors' badge programs for younger Girl Scouts.
For more information on these programs: http://www.texasdiscoverygardens.org/girl_scouts.htm
Boy Scouts: We have a number of 'Achievements' and 'Arrow-point' badge programs for younger Scouts. We
also work with Scout Leaders to put together Webelos and Eagle Scout projects, and have a number of
Community Service opportunities for older Scouts. For more information please click here.
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 Scouting Program Info: 214-428-7476 x 27
For More Information: www.texasdiscoverygardens.org
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43. TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT ACTIVITIES
ATHENS, TX
AUGUST 2- OCTOBER 22 — Nikon Small World Photo Exhibit
Location: Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center
Time: 5 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Cost: Regular admission to the Center.
Details: View 20 winning microphotographs from the prestigious Nikon Small World Photo Competition, an international contest featuring photographs taken through microscopes. These images reveal a hidden world too small to be seen without magnification.
For More Information: 903-676-BASS.
OCTOBER 11 — Bluegill Family Fishing Tournament
Location: Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center
Time: 7 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Cost: $15 (includes admission to TFFC)
Pre-Registration Required
Details: Adult/youth teams fish for prizes in this family-oriented tournament on Lake Athens. Door prizes galore and quality time spent together mean everyone goes away a winner. Weigh-in four-fish stringers at the Anglers Pavilion at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center. Accessible for the mobility, visually and hearing impaired. 7 a.m.-2 p.m.; fee includes admission to TFFC $15; preregistration required, deadline October 8, 2008. To register, download entry form to mail in.
For More Information: 903-676-BASS.
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CEDAR HILL, TX
SEPTEMBER 20; NOVEMBER 29 – Penn Farm Tour
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 9:30 a.m. - 11 a.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.
OCTOBER 18 – 8th Annual Days of Old Celebration
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Cost: $2/person; $5/family (suggested donation)
Details: Travel back in time with weavers, spinners, wood cravers, a blacksmith, antique tractors and much more. There will be wagon rides, carnival booths, live entertainment and food available for purchase. Come and spend the afternoon learning new crafts and relaxing at the Penn Farm.
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232.
NOVEMBER 15 – 1st Annual Chili Cookoff
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Details: njoy camping at the park and always wanted to participate in one of those "chili cookoffs?" Well now is your chance! There will be several categories you can choose to compete in and prizes will be given to the winner in each division courtesy of the Friends Group of Cedar Hill State Park. The number of participants is limited and camping in the park is a competition requirement. Join other chili cookers as we rename one of camping loops "Chili Cookers Crossing" for this fun-filled weekend! Come and compete in the cookoff or just come and help us decide who has the best chili!
Call to Confirm Program: 972-291-3900, ext. 232.
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DENTON, TX
SEPTEMBER 20 -- Butterfield Stage Coach Day
Location: Eisenhower State Park
Time: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Call: 903-465-1956
Details:Celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the first Butterfield Stagecoach crossing the Red River into Texas at nearby Colbert's Ferry. See a replica Concord stagecoach and listen to Bob Montgomery tell stories about the Butterfield mail route in North Texas.
SEPT 20; OCT 18; NOV 15 -- 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.
OCTOBER 11; NOV 8 -- 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.
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EUSTACE, TX (Henderson/Van Zandt Counties)
SEPTEMBER 20 — Night Hike
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 8 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Call: 903-425-2332.
Details: Meet at the overflow camping area parking lot and take a hike into the dark. Learn about nocturnal animals at the park and how your senses are affected by darkness. The hike is approximately one mile.
NOVEMBER 15; — Stargazing
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Call: 903-425-2332.
Details: Make a star wheel and learn how to use it to find constellations in the night sky. Take a walk through the solar system and have a chance to view the night sky through a telescope. Bring flashlights with red lenses or red tape will be provided. Meet at the over flow camping parking lot, weather permitting.
NOVEMBER 29 – Evening Ranger Program
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 7:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Call: 903-425-2332.
Details: Join the Park Ranger at the amphitheater for an evening program and movie about the animals at Purits Creek State Park.
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JACKSBORO, TX
SEPTEMBER 26-28— Texas 13th Cavalry Annual Muster and Drills
Location: Fort Richardson State Park & Historical Site & Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway
Details: Come to the parade grounds and spend the day traveling back in time as you observe these re-enactors as they assemble and go through their drills.
To Register: 940-567-3506.
OCTOBER 17-18 – Red Steagall Wagon Train
Location: Fort Richardson State Park & Historical Site & Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway
Time: Sat: 3pm-6pm; Sun: 9am-11am
Details: The park will be the starting point of the wagon train's annual journey to Fort Worth. See the wagons as they start arriving on Saturday afternoon.
To Register: 940-567-3506.
NOVEMBER 8-9 – Terry's Texas Rangers Weekend
Location: Fort Richardson State Park & Historical Site & Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway
Time: 9am-4pm
Details: This group will hold their annual event and practice session at the fort. Come watch as they will be camping on the parade grounds and performing drills thoughout the weekend.
To Register: 940-567-3506.
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MINERAL WELLS, TX
SEPTEMBER 27 — Kids Wilderness Survival
Location: Lake Mineral Wells SP & Trailway
Time: 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Details: This course is a fun way for kids to learn what to do if they become lost. The course includes interactive games, demonstrations and a hike on the nature trail. Kids must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or youth group leader.
Reservations Required
Call: 940-328-1171.
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PILOT POINT, TX
Ray Roberts Lake SP/Johnson Branch Unit
SEPTEMBER (SATURDAYS)— Guided Nature Hike
Location: Ray Roberts Lake SP/Johnson Branch Unit
Time: 1 p.m.
Details: Every Saturday. Blooming wildflowers and other plants, animals and ecosystems of the North Texas prairies and Cross Timbers regions are explored on this one-mile journey. Bring your boots, binoculars and layered clothing and meet at the Dogwood Camping Area.; donations gratefully accepted.
For More Information: (940) 686-2080 or (940) 637-2294.
Ray Roberts Lake/Isle du Bois Unit
SEPTEMBER 27; OCTOBER 25 – Stargazing Party
Location: Ray Roberts Lake SP/Isle du Bois Unit
Time: 7 – 11 p.m.
Details: Spend a few minutes or hours viewing the heavens and talking with volunteer John Olson. Bring your own telescope or gaze through John's 10 and 12-inch GIS motor driven telescopes. Meet at DORBA trailhead and use boat launch parking in the day use area.
For More Information: 940-686-2080 or 940-686-2148
SEPTEMBER (SATURDAYS)— Guided Nature Hike
Location: Ray Roberts Lake SP/Johnson Branch Unit
Time: 4 p.m.
Details: Every Saturday. Blooming wildflowers and other plants, animals and ecosystems of the North Texas prairies and Cross Timbers regions are explored on this one-mile journey. Bring your boots, binoculars and layered clothing and meet at the Bluestem Grove Camping Area. Donations gratefully accepted.
For More Information: (940) 686-2080 or (940) 686-2148.
OCTOBER 4, 18 — Fireside Chat
Location: Ray Roberts Lake SP/Johnson Branch Unit
Time: 7-8 p.m.
Details: Topics will include storytelling, natural/cultural history, flora/fauna, jokes and more. Meet at the Lost Pines Trail Interpretive Area.
For More Information: (940) 686-2080 or (940) 686-2148.
OCTOBER 11, 25 — Guided Nature Hike
Location: Ray Roberts Lake SP/Johnson Branch Unit
Time: 3 p.m.
Details: Blooming wildflowers and other plants, animals and ecosystems of the North Texas prairies and Cross Timbers regions are explored on this one-mile journey. Bring your boots, binoculars and layered clothing and meet at the Bluestem Grove Camping Area. Donations gratefully accepted,
For More Information: (940) 686-2080 or (940) 686-2148.
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ROCKWALL, TX
OCTOBER 11-12 — Texas Outdoor Family Workshop
For Times & Fees: Call 512-389-8903 M-F from 9am - 6pm
Reservations Required: 512-389-8903 or email tof@tpwd.state.tx.us
Details: Ever wanted to camp with your family but feel unsure of what or how to do so? This workshop at a local park is offered in partnership with Texas Parks and Wildlife and is designed to teach your family all the basic outdoor skills you'll need to enjoy a great overnight camping experience. You will get hands-on experience learning basic outdoor skills such as camping, outdoor cooking and also be able to get basic instruction enjoying such outdoor activities as fishing, archery, paddling, and youth nature classes. Best of all, no experience is necessary!
For More Information: 512-970-9247 or email tofparks@tpwd.state.tx.us
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Free TPWD Coloring and Activity Books to Download: www.tpwd.state.tx.us/publications/learning/color/
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44. THEATER PERFORMANCES AT CASA MANANA CHILDREN’S THEATER
For over 40 years, Casa Mañana's Children's Playhouse has introduced children of all ages to the magic of live theatre. This tradition continues as Casa Mañana's Children's Playhouse proudly presents its 2008-2009 Season:
2008-2009 Children's Playhouse Season Schedule:
SEPTEMBER 26 - OCTOBER 12 -- Sleeping Beauty
A new, bolder, funnier retelling of your favorite tale, this Sleeping Beauty features some delightful new characters and a slightly different spin on the usual suspects. A young Princess is cursed to sleep an ageless sleep, and can only be awakened by the kiss from a Prince. You are sure to be enchanted by the staging of this magical fairy tale developed by critically acclaimed local artists Brad Jackson and Alex Vorse.
OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 9 -- The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairy(l)y (Stoopid) Tales
What do you get when you take your favorite fairy tale classics and turn them on their heads? How about the Ugly Duckling growing up to be A Really Ugly Duck, Cinderella snubbing Rumpelstiltskin, or The Princess kissing a frog only to end up with a mouthful of slime. If you love the wacky humor of the award winning book by Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith, then don't miss this hilarious musical parody that is sure to crack up kids and parents alike.
NOVEMBER 21 - DECEMBER 21 -- Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Get in the holiday spirit with the world’s most famous reindeer. Young, shy Rudolph is laughed at because of his bright red nose. But that glowing nose comes in very handy when Santa needs someone to save Christmas by serving as a beacon to guide his sleigh. Join Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Comet, Cupid and all the other reindeer as Rudolph captures their admiration and proves he is a true Christmas hero.
FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 8 -- Miss Nelson is Missing!
The students in room 207 just won’t follow the rules and are not being respectful to their teacher, Miss Nelson. One morning, Miss Nelson is mysteriously missing from school, which makes her students believe they have succeeded in driving her away. Their celebration quickly ends when the substitute teacher, the mean and scary Miss Viola Swamp, descends upon the classroom. You’ll love what happens next in this new musical based upon the popular children’s books by Harry Allard and James Marshall.
APRIL 3 - 19 -- Rockin' with Mother Goose
See Jack & Jill, Humpty Dumpty, Little Bo Beep and more of those beloved characters as we present the classic Mother Goose rhymes to upbeat, catchy music. There are little life lessons tucked into each song to help teach children about good manners, safety and responsibility. Developed by local artists Brad Jackson and Alex Vorse, this world premiere musical puts a new spin on the classics to make your favorite rhymes come alive.
MAY 1 - 17 -- A Year with Frog & Toad
The Tony Award-nominated adaptation of the beloved Arnold Lobel classic stories where cheery Frog and grumpy Toad leap off the page to the stage just in time for blossoming, bird-chirping spring. With hilarious and tender songs inspired by snazzy jazzy music, this charming musical comedy gloriously suggests that having a very best friend for flying kites, racing sleds and baking cookies, is as good as it gets.
Order Season Tickets!
Order a 6-Show Season Ticket package to secure GREAT SEATS for these fantastic, family fun productions at Casa Mañana Theatre. And as a Season Subscriber, you will receive a discount equal to seeing ONE SHOW FREE!
For More Information: Call Customer Service at 817-332-2272 or visit http://www.casamanana.org/phssntix_new.html
The Children's Playhouse Producers Circle
Two rows of seats in front of Sections 2 and 3 are reserved exclusively for members of The Children's Playhouse Producers Circle. Join today and receive a free seating upgrade, plus other fantastic benefits.
For More Information: Call 817-321-5013.
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45. PERFORMANCES AT CATS THEATER IN ARLINGTON
2008 Summer Series Shows
Tickets: $6 regular admission
$5 for lap passes for children 0-3 years old
2008/2009 Children's Show Schedule:
OCTOBER 3-12 -- Cinderella
Auditions: August 22-23
A young woman triumphs over her nasty, abusive Stepmother and Stepsisters and marries her Prince Charming, thanks to her zany Fairy Godmother, a trip to the Royal Ball in an enchanted coach and a glass slipper. The Fairy Godmother's two comical helpers keep things moving along in this delightful version of a classic known the world over.
Intermission Tea Party with the Characters
Make your reservations early, there are only 30 seats.
Cost $5.00 per person
OCTOBER 31 - NOVEMBER 9 -- The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
Auditions: September 15-16
Early on a September morning the villagers of Sleepy Hollow await their new schoolmaster. His genteel manners and his hymn singing impress the ladies, including Katrina Van Tassel, the town belle. The menfolk are less thrilled, especially Brom Bones, Katrina's beau, and he begins plotting to rid himself of his unwelcome rival. Matters come to a head during the Van Tassel's Halloween party, after which the superstitious Ichabod is accosted on his lonely ride home by a fiendish apparition, the Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow. The next morning Ichabod has disappeared, leaving behind only a song in the wind, and a new legend is born.
PLUS! Intermission Halloween with the Characters
Have Tea and Cakes with the cast. Make your reservations early, there are only 30 seats.
Cost $5.00 per person
DECEMBER 5 - 14 -- Christmas Carol Miracle
Auditions: October 13-14
It’s December 1939 in a small Texas town, the orphans at Abba House enter the town’s annual Christmas Carol Contest. The money will save the doomed orphanage. The orphans are sure to win…until Christoper arrives. Not only can Christopher not sing, but he never smiles either. Will the orphans let Christopher sing with the choir knowing that they could lose the contest and prize money, and therefore their home? This wonderful family musical by Taffy Geisel will not only touch your heart, it will also put you in the holiday spirit.
Intermission Tea Party with the Characters
Make your reservations early, there are only 30 seats.
Cost $5.00 per person
JANUARY 2 - 4 -- Free to Be You and Me
No Auditions - Performed by Alumni Students
Free to Be… You and Me features songs and stories. Using poetry, songs, and sketches, the basic concept is to salute values such as individuality, tolerance, and happiness with one's identity; a major thematic message is that anyone, whether a boy or a girl, can achieve anything one wants.
JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 8 -- Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court
Auditions: December 8-9
A teenager who works on his school's stage crew, is knocked out by a co-worker and finds himself transported back to the thrilling days of King Arthur, Queen Guenevere and the Knights and Ladies of the Round Table. Hank, who has been studying astronomy, predicts an eclipse of the sun and is hailed a great wizard. He is knighted "Sir Boss" and sets about modernizing Camelot, complete with telephones, bicycles and T-shirts. But the king's wicked half-sister plots against Camelot, planning an invasion with her own army. How "Sir Boss" overcomes the evil plot and finds his way back to Hartford, Connecticut, provides fun and excitement for everyone.
Intermission Tea Party with the Characters
Make your reservations early, there are only 30 seats.
Cost $5.00 per person
FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 8 -- Boxcar Children
Auditions: January 12-13
This story is about four children: Henry James Alden, 14; Jessie Alden, 12; Violet Alden, 10; Benny Alden, 4, and their dog Watch. Upon the death of their mother and father, their grandfather assumes custody of the children, but they run away because they believe him to be cruel. Finding an abandoned boxcar, they start a new life of independence. A man named Dr. Moore, who lives in a nearby city, hires Henry to do jobs around his home, such as mowing the lawn and organizing his garage. With the help of Henry's income and living off the land, the children are able to take care of themselves until Violet becomes ill and they must go to Dr. Moore for assistance.
Intermission Tea Party with the Characters
Make your reservations early, there are only 30 seats.
Cost $5.00 per person
MARCH 27 - APRIL 5 -- Peter Rabbit and Benjamin Bunny
Auditions: February 2-3
Peter Rabbit is lucky to have escaped Mr. MacGregor's garden, but then his cousin Benjamin suggests they go back together for Peter's missing coat and shoes.
Intermission Tea Party with the Characters
Make your reservations early, there are only 30 seats.
Cost $5.00 per person
MAY 1 - 10 -- Into the Woods (2009 Fundraiser Show)
Open Auditions: March 9-10
Annual Auction to be held during the show
Tickets are 3 for $5
A childless baker and his wife cannot have a child until they follow the bidding of the witch next door to get a cow as white as milk, the cape as red as blood, the hair as yellow as corn, and the slipper as pure as gold. Good thing, then that they've got neighbors named Jack, Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel and Cinderella to help them before (and after) Happily Ever After.
Intermission Tea Party with the Characters
Make your reservations early, there are only 30 seats.
Cost $5.00 per person
Summer Shows:
JUNE 16-18 -- Go Dog, Go
JULY 7-9 -- Dear Edina, Jr.
AUGUST 4-6 -- The Five Little Peppers and How They Grew
Show Times:
Spotlight Shows:
Friday 7:30 p.m.
Saturday 2:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Sunday 2:30 p.m.
Ticket Information:
2007/2008
* Regular admission $10.00.
* Group rate for a group of 10 and more $9.
* Group rate for a group of 20 and more $8.
* Lap passes for children 0 to 3 years old are $5.00.
* School Matinees group rate $5. See link below for group rates.
* 2007-2008 Season Tickets – See link below for info on Season Tickets
* 2008 Fundraiser Show $15 for adults & $10 for children/students
To Order Tickets Online: https://vss131.viux.com/creativearts_org/tixonline.htm
For Information on Group Rates: http://www.creativearts.org/grouprates.html
For Information on Season Tickets: http://www.creativearts.org/seasontickets.html
For More Information: 817-861-2287; metro: 817-265-8512
Location: 1100 West Randol Mill Road
Arlington, TX 76012
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46. COTTAGE THEATER – CREATIVE ARTS IN ACTION
Creative Arts in Action’s Cottage Theater Presents:
SEPTEMBER 26 – 2008 Broadway Review
Time: 7:30 p.m.
This will be a guaranteed evening of great entertainment featuring solos and group numbers from popular Broadway Shows!
Tickets: $10
Location: Creative Arts in Action/Cottage Theater
5733 Watauga Road
Watauga TX 76148
817-281-2293
(Between 377 and Rufe Snow in Northeast Fort Worth, Texas)
For More Information: 817-281-2293
Auditions September 8: Click here for details
NOVEMBER 21-24 – The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (Comedy)
Times: Fri, Sat, Mon (Nov 21, 22, 24): 7:30pm
Sat, Sun (Nov 22, 23): 2:30 pm
Tickets: $10/adults; $8/students; free/small lap children.
No baby carriers or strollers, etc.
To Purchase Tickets: 817-281-2293
FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 2 – The Sound of Music
Times: Fri, Sat, Mon (Feb 27, 28, Mar 2): 7:30pm
Sat, Sun (Feb 28, Mar 1): 2:30 pm
Tickets: $10/adults; $8/students; free/small lap children.
No baby carriers or strollers, etc.
To Purchase Tickets: 817-281-2293
Auditions December 2 & 4: Click here for details
AUDITIONS:
Auditions for Broadway Review Will Be Held: September 8
To set an audition appointment: Anicia Brown at 817-571-9839 or Click Here to email her
Details: Auditioners who would like to sing a solo must sing that song for their audition. All auditioners must sing a minimum of 16 bars and a maximum of two minutes of a song from any previously staged Broadway production. Soloists will have the option to participate in the group numbers if their solo piece is not selected. Those auditioning for Chorus may also be required to sing a small solo in the group numbers.
Rehearsals: All participants must be able to commit to at least the final dress rehearsal on Sept. 25th (7 - 10 p.m.) and three of the four rehearsals: Sept. 11, 15, 18, 22 ( 7 - 9 p.m.)
Registration/Tuition Fee: $10 per participant
Auditions for The Sound of Music Will Be Held: December 2 & 4
To set an audition appointment: Anicia Brown at 817-571-9839 or Click Here to email
Call Backs: December 9 at 4:30pm
Rehearsals: Tues/Thurs (Dec 11 - Feb 19) from 4:30 - 6:30pm
Performances: February 27 - March 2
For More Information: 817-281-2293
www.creativeartsinaction.com
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47. THEATER at ARTISAN THEATER IN HURST
Artisan Center Theater holds quality, "in the round" performances that are family-friendly, entertaining, and affordable! Artie's Playhouse, their Interactive Children's Theater, offers original, fun-for-all-ages productions featuring familiar characters and themes, but with fresh twists that keep it entertaining and exciting for parents as well as children. Each story has its own character focus, which is reinforced throughout the play.
The "Artie's Playhouse" productions are about 30-45 minutes long, and include lots of audience participation to hold the interest of even the youngest child in the family. The theater's full-length stage productions include musicals, comedies, and family dramas which are entertaining, as well as family-friendly. Past performances have included such classics as Godspell, Cheaper By the Dozen, The Scarlet Pimpernel, and The Sound of Music.
Full-Length Productions:
SEPTEMBER 19 - OCTOBER 11 – Belles on Their Toes
The CHEAPER BY THE DOZEN family is back, but Father is gone. How the Gilbreths meet this crisis, along with the younger kids' hilarious attempts to take charge of their siblings' dating prospects, makes for great family entertainment!
OCTOBER 17 - NOVEMBER 15 -- The Book of Job (Musical)
This wonderful musical story of Job and his trials and triumphs was originally written for and premiered at the Jubilee Theatre. It is glorious, infectious, colorful, soulful, emotional and best of all, entertaining. The whole family will love this production.
Ticket Prices:
Fridays & Saturdays: $13.00 for adults,
$11.00 for students and senior citizens,
$8.00 for children 12 and under.
Mondays Tuesdays & Thursdays: $9.00 for everyone
$6 Children (12 & under)
Reservations recommended.
Season Tickets and Group Discounts Available.
To Reserve Tickets: 817-284-1200
For More Information: http://www.artisanct.com
Address: 420 E. Pipeline Road in Hurst, Texas (in the Bellaire Shopping Center)
Artie’s Children’s Playhouse Productions:
SEPTEMBER 20 - OCTOBER 11 -- Puss in Boots
Artie’s Playhouse Ticket Price: $5 per person
Tuesdays: 4:30 p.m.
Thursdays/Saturdays: 10 a.m.
To Reserve Tickets: 817-284-1200
For More Information: http://www.artisanct.com
Address: 420 E. Pipeline Road in Hurst, Texas (in the Bellaire Shopping Center)
Artisan Theater can come to you!!!
For more information about how to schedule a performance at your location, contact the theater at 817-284-1200. They can perform for events, birthday parties, church functions, and more!!! Bring their family-friendly, entertaining shows to your front door!! Very reasonable prices!!