January 2009
Home Educators Alliance for Resources and Training of Texas, Inc.
JANUARY 2009 ISSUE
Home School News and Events
Dear Home School Families 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 ~
JANUARY 5-7
SAN ANTONIO INDEPENDENT CHRISTIAN FILM FESTIVAL
SPONSORED BY VISION FORUM
Special Discount for our HEART of Texas Readers!
Use Code: "HEART" when you register to get the discounted price.
Location: Ballroom B, at the Gonzales Convention Center
200 E. Market Street
San Antonio, TX 7820
Cost: Film Academy Pass: $595/regular price; "HEART" Discount $495
Details: Christian Filmmakers Academy is a technical bootcamp for aspiring culture-changers to be held January 5-7 in San Antonio, Texas. Students will learn principles of scripting, casting, writing, directing, and marketing a Christian film — along with intense Christian worldview instruction. With over twenty hours of formal training — and topics as diverse as adventure cinematography and 3D modeling — the Academy is an incredibly valuable resource for film students and industry professionals alike.
Guest Lecturers: Expelled’s Logan Craft and Fireproof’s Stephen Kendrick, along with the Erwin Brothers, whose presentation “All Things RED” will provide all the ins-and-outs of the RED Camera.
To Register for the Academy: https://www.independentchristianfilms.com/register/academy.aspx
For More Information: https://www.independentchristianfilms.com/register/
NOTE: Registration for the 2009 Christian Filmmakers Academy includes a free standard festival pass. Therefore you do not need to register for the festival if you register for the academy.
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JANUARY 5
REGISTRATION DEADLINE FOR
HOMESCHOOL CLASSES AT
HEARD MUSEUM
Thirteen Weeks of Classes (26 hours of classtime)
JANUARY 13 - APRIL 1 (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: January 5, 2009
For More Information: Click Here
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JANUARY 7
2009 KICK-OFF MEETING
NORTH IRVING HOME EDUCATORS
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: the Alcove at Irving Bible Church
Childcare Provided: FREE, if booked asap. The deadline has passed, but we might be able to squeeze you in. To reserve a spot for your child(ren) click here to email Tammy Hutchinson at give her the names/ages of your children and let her know you’ll be attending the NICHE meeting.
This is the 2009 kick-off meeting for the North Irving Christian Home Educators. Speakers will be
Shirley Luckett, who will talk about some of the homeschool art lessons she will be offering this spring. Sandy Lowry will talk about Learning Styles and Differences and the best ways to teach to those particular learning styles.
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JANUARY 8-10
SAN ANTONIO INDEPENDENT CHRISTIAN FILM FESTIVAL
SPONSORED BY VISION FORUM
Special discount for our HEART of Texas Readers!
Use Code: "HEART" when you register to get the discounted price.
Location: Ballroom B, at the Gonzales Convention Center
200 E. Market Street
San Antonio, TX 78205
Cost: Film Festival Adult Pass: $75/regular price; Discount "HEART" Price $60
Film Festival Student Pass: $65/regular price; Discount ""HEART" Price $50
Film Festival Family Pass: $295/regular price; Discount "HEART" Price $225
Details: The San Antonio Independent Christian Film Festival will showcase the best in Christian filmmaking: fifty film finalists and semifinalists that will compete for the $101,000 “Best of Jubilee” Award — the largest cash prize given by any film festival in America. More than fifty films will be shown on four screens as part of this exciting three-day event.
Special Guests: Kirk Cameron and Stephen Kendrick, who will give a behind-the-scenes look at their film, Fireproof; along with actor Dean Jones who will be on hand for the world premiere of his new film, Abraham and Isaac.
Other festival features include live performances by the Von Trapp Children (singing songs from the Sound of Music), storyteller George Sarris, and Celtic Balladeer, Charlie Zahm.
To Register: https://www.independentchristianfilms.com/register/festival.aspx
For More Information: https://www.independentchristianfilms.com/register/
NOTE: Registration for the 2009 Christian Filmmakers Academy includes a free standard festival pass. Therefore you do not need to register for the festival if you register for the academy.
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JANUARY 8, 9 & 16
LAST DAYS TO REGISTER FOR HOMESCHOOL MATH
CLASSES AT TARRANT COUNTY COLLEGE - SE
Jan 8: Last day to register for the College Algebra at SE campus.
Jan 9: Last day to register for at NW campus.
Jan 16: Last day to register for Algebra II and Geometry at SE campus.is Thursday, January 8th
Courses at Each Campus:
SE Campus (Arlington)
Geometry Fridays 9-12
Algebra II TTH 3-4:30
College Algebra MWF 1-3 (eight weeks)
NW Campus (FW)
Algebra II Mondays 8-10
geometry Mondays 10-12
Classes start mid-January
Cost $166 which includes book. This is for entire course.
For more info or course number they may call or email me.
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JANUARY 10
HEART OF TEXAS
WINTER MINI-CONFERENCE
HEART of Texas and our Homeschool Bookstore Partners are coordinating a special conference to give families an opportunity to get a fresh start on the new year, listen to encouraging speakers, and get a special savings on their materials!
Time: 10a.m. - 7 p.m.
Cost: $5 Per Family
HEART of Texas member families with valid ID can attend FREE
(but must register). For Member information click here.
Locations: Creative Arts in Action (Watauga)
CERC (Rowlett)
Home Educators Resource (Lewisville)
You can visit one store, two stores, or all three with just ONE registration fee!
You will receive a punch card that will identify you as a conference attendee.
Use the card to get your discounts and attend workshops at any store you wish to visit.
PLUS the FIRST 50 families to register will get a FREE Gift bag!
Each bookstore will have different discounts, speakers, vendors, and activities planned. HEART of Texas Member Discounts do not apply during the conference.
To Pre-Register Online:
Fill out the online form: www.heartoftex.org/minicon/minicon/miniconreg.php
Pay $5 at the HEART of Texas table located at each store.
You will receive a punch card that will identify you as a conference attendee.
Use the card to get your discounts and attend workshops at any store you wish to visit.
Registration at the Door:
$5 -- Register at the HEART of Texas table located at the store
To help speed up registration please bring an index card with the following information:
Last Name, First Name
Address
City, State, Zip
Phone
For More Information and Speaking Schedule: www.heartoftex.org/minicon/miniconinfo.html
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JANUARY 12
ANIMAL FASHIONS CLASS & TOUR
AT FOSSIL RIM
Time: 10:00-2:30ish.
Break for Lunch: 12:00-1:00
Guided Tour of Fossil Rim: 1:00-2:30ish
Details:
To Register: homeschool@fossilrim.org or call 254-897-2960 ext. 216
Other January Events at Fossil Rim
JANUARY 26 -- Cheetah Class & Tour
Time: 10:00-2:30ish.
Break for Lunch: 12:00-1:00
Guided Tour of Fossil Rim: 1:00-2:30ish
Details:
To Register: homeschool@fossilrim.org or call 254-897-2960 ext. 216
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JANUARY 14 & 15
NATURE AWARENESS DAY CAMPS
AT CAMP TONKAWA
Cost: $15 if pre-registered by mail; $18 walk-ins; $10 4-year-olds; Free under 4 adn parents
Time: 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Details: Click Here
To RSVP: 903-429-6483
To View other Camp Offerings: Click Here
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JANUARY 16
PRE-REGISTRATION DEADLINE
HEART OF TEXAS REGIONAL
HOME SCHOOL COLLEGE NIGHT
Date of College Night: January 27
Time: 7p.m. - 9p.m.
Location: Grapevine Convention Center
Speaking Sessions Offered (Schedule coming soon!):
David Orsag, Associate Director of Financial Aid at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor will talk about
various ways to fund college, and will discuss several options and tips for families who don't have funds to send their kids to college.
Sarah Bowdin, Director of Admissions at the University of Texas at Tyler will share her tips for how to make your application and transcript stand out to an admissions officer.
The military academies will offer a session where they will have representatives from each academy give a brief presentation and answer questions.
Jean Burk of College Prep Genius will talk about strategies to get free college!
Admission:
Pre-registrations postmarked on or before January 21, 2009
$15 per family – for pre-registrations postmarked on or before January 21, 2009
$10 per family – HEART of Texas Members with a valid Family I.D. card (must show at the door)
At the Door:
$10 per person (ages 5 and up)
To Register Online:
Fill out the online form located at http://www.heartoftex.org/college/familyreg/familyreg.php
Mail a check made payable to:
HEART of Texas
P.O. Box 211882
Bedford, TX 76095-1882
To Register By Mail:
Click here for the "College Night 2009 Registration" document.
Please mail payment (made payable to HEART of Texas) and registration form to:
HEART of Texas
P.O. Box 211882
Bedford, TX 76095-1882
We look forward to this opportunity for your family to meet with college representatives from various
colleges and learn how to best prepare your child for college.
If you have any questions, please contact us at info@heartoftex.org
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JANUARY 23
HOME SCHOOL RESOURCE DAY
HERITAGE FARMSTEAD MUSEUM
Time: 1p.m. - 3p.m.
Location: Heritage Farmstead Museum
1900 West 15th Street
Plano, TX 75075
Cost: $5/person - registration received by January 14
$7/person after January 14
Historic House grounds Tours
Blacksmith Demonstration
Lesson on Turn of the Century School Life
Lesson about life on the North Texas Blackland Prairie at the turn of the century
Make a Victorian era craft
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JANUARY 23
REGISTRATION OPEN FOR
THE WHOLEHEARTED MOTHER CONFERENCE
Date: February 20-21, 2009
Location: Dallas Marriott Las Colinas
223 West Las Colinas Blvd., Irving, TX 75039
2009 Conference Theme: Smiling at the Future with Faith—Building Your Heart and Home on Solid Foundations
A two-day hotel conference and getaway designed especially for Christian mothers, now in its 11th year of ministering to moms. This year, in a time of faith-challenging uncertainty, Sally's heart is to give moms the ability to "smile at the future" like the Proverbs 31 mother. You heart will be strengthened and encouraged for the life of trust and faith to which God has called you in raising wholehearted children at home. The conference also includes inspiring guest speakers, practical workshops, inspirational worship, a seated banquet luncheon, book tables, and more.
Early Registration: By January 23, $85.00.
Regular Registration: After January 23, $95.00
For Registration Details click here.
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JANUARY 27
HEART OF TEXAS REGIONAL
HOME SCHOOL COLLEGE NIGHT
Time: 7p.m. - 9p.m.
Location: Grapevine Convention Center
Admission:
Pre-registrations postmarked on or before January 16, 2009
$15 per family – for pre-registrations postmarked on or before January 16, 2008
$10 per family – HEART of Texas Members with a valid Family I.D. card (must show at the door)
At the Door:
$10 per person (ages 5 and up)
To Register Online:
Fill out the online form located at http://www.heartoftex.org/college/familyreg/familyreg.php
Mail a check made payable to:
HEART of Texas
P.O. Box 211882
Bedford, TX 76095-1882
To Register By Mail:
Click here for the "College Night 2009 Registration" document.
Please mail payment (made payable to HEART of Texas) and registration form to:
HEART of Texas
P.O. Box 211882
Bedford, TX 76095-1882
For More Information: www.heartoftex.org/college/college.html
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JANUARY
REGISTRATION OPEN FOR TEEN PACT
STATE CAPITOL CLASSES
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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JANUARY
REGISTRATION OPEN FOR
HOME SCHOOL PE CLASSES AVAILABLE AT VELOCITY SPORTS
(Discount for HEART of Texas members)
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
Get Ready for the Second Annual HEART of Texas Regional Homeschool College Night!
Texas Ballet Theater Offering Homeschoolers Discount Tickets on Their Best Seats!
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 Public Library System
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 -- Contest Over
8. Igniting Creative Energy Challenge for K-12 -- Entries Due February 13, 2009
CIVICS/GOOD CITIZENSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
9. City of Fort Worth Youth Advisory Board -- Fort Worth
10. City of North Richland Hills Teen Court -- North Richland Hills
11. Texas Home School Coalition Good Citizenship Award Program -- State-wide
CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE ANNOUNCEMENTS
12. Certificates of Special Congressional Recognition for Graduating Seniors
13. National Congressional Art Competition -- Districts 3, 4, 5, 12, 24, 26, 30
HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
14. THEO Home School Classes -- Plano
15. Christian Cottage Prep -- Fort Worth
16. Christian Educators Resource Center -- Rowlett
17. Cooke County Cotillion for Home Schooled Teens -- Gainesville
18. Creative Arts in Action -- Watauga
19. Eastfield College -- Mesquite
20. Enrichment Classes, Inc. -- Lewisville
21. Faith Christian Academy -- McKinney
22. Fabulous Fridays -- Little Elm
23. Home Educators Resource -- Lewisville
24. Homeschoolers East Co-Op Classes -- East Dallas
25. Homeschool Heritage Domus Schola -- Keller
26. Legacy Home School Enrichment Program at First Baptist Euless -- Euless
27. Homeschool Theater Classes at PFAmily Arts --- Plano
28. Tarrant County College -- High School Math and Science Classes for Home Schoolers
29. Venture Home School Classes -- Colleyville
30. YMCA/Irving Home School Classes -- Irving
BOOK SALES & HOME SCHOOL BOOK STORES
31. Library Used Book Sales in North Texas
Wichita Falls - February 7
Hurst - February 20
Carrollton - February 26-March 1
32. Christian Educators Resource Center -- Rowlett
33. Creative Arts in Action -- Watauga
34. Home Educators Resource -- Lewisville
NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
35. Camp Tonkawa (Day Camps and Outdoor Education) -- Collinsville
36. Dallas Arboretum -- Dallas
37. Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge Programs
38. Fossil Rim
39. Haven's Horses (Horsemanship & Outdoor Education)-- Keller
40. Heard Museum Homeschool Classes – McKinney
41. Heritage Farmstead Museum -- Plano
42. Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch -- Pilot Point
43. Texas Discovery Gardens -- Dallas
44. Texas Parks and Wildlife Programs -- State Parks in North Texas
PERFORMING ARTS
45. Performances at Casa Manana Children’s Playhouse --Fort Worth
Miss Nelson is Missing -- February 20 - March 8
46. Performances at CATS -- Arlington
Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court -- January 30 - February 8
47. Cottage Theater – Creative Arts in Action -- Watauga
The Sound of Music – February 27 - March 2 (2009)
48. Theater Performances at Artisan Center Theater -- Hurst
Irving Berlin's I Love a Piano - January 2 - 31
Artie's Children's Playhouse: The Emperor and the Nightingale - Jan 3- 31
49. Performances at Bass Performance Hall -- Fort Worth
CATS -- February 3-8
50. Dallas Children’s Theater -- Dallas
Click, Clack, Moo Cows that Type -- January 23 - February 22
51. Plano Children’s Theater -- Plano
Improv -- January 9-11
52. Texas Ballet Theater Performances -- Special Homeschool Pricing -- Dallas/Ft. Worth
Swan Lake - February 14 (Majestic Theater)
Swan Lake - February 21 (Bass Hall)
Cleopatra - March 28 (Bass Hall)
53. Home School Discount Tickets to Dallas Theater Performances
Bob the Builder - February 21 & 22 (Majestic Theater)
ART MUSEUMS
54. Amon Carter Museum Exhibits – Fort Worth
55. Dallas Museum of Art Exhibits -- Dallas
Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs
56. Kimball Art Museum Exhibit -- Fort Worth
Nativity from Naples: Presepe Sculpture from the 18th Century (Opens Nov 25)
57. Museum of Nature & Science -- Dallas
Your Incredible Body
58. Museum of Science & History -- Fort Worth
59. Nasher Sculpture Center -- Dallas
IMAX/OMNI THEATERS
60. Shows at the Dallas Imax Theatre -- Museum of Science and Nature
Wired to Win
Journey into Amazing Caves
61. Shows at the Fort Worth Omni Theater -- Ft. Worth Museum of Science & History
The Dark Knight: The IMAX Experience (Rated PG-13) -- Jan 23-March 5
Dinosaurs Alive
Mummies: Secrets of the Pharoah
Deep Sea
The Polar Express (November 21 - January 4)
HISTORICAL PROGRAMS
62. Programs at Log Cabin Village -- Fort Worth
63. Dallas Heritage Village -- Dallas
SCIENCE EVENTS/ACTIVITIES
64. Star Parties at Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
HOME SCHOOL SPORTS/PE PROGRAMS
65. Berne Academy's Varsity Boys Basketball Team -- Lancaster
66. Homeschool Swim -- The Colony Aquatic Park -- The Colony
67. Homeschool Swim & Swim Team -- Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium-- Allen
68. Christian Martial Arts -- Bedford
69. Dallas Thunder Homeschool Basketball Organization -- Registration Open
70. Elite Track Club/Cross Country Program for Home Schoolers
71. Home School Athletic Association
72. THESA Riders Home School Sports Association
73. Hulcy Home School PE Classes -- Richardson
74. Home School PE Classes -- Velocity Sports in Highland Park
75. Home School PE Classes -- Velocity Sports in Southlake
76. Home School Fencing Classes -- Fencing Institute of Texas -- Farmers Branch
77. Parker-Tarrant Home School Sports
78. Pop-In Playtime -- Pump It Up of Grapevine -- Grapevine
SUPPORT GROUP ANNOUNCEMENTS
79. Smoothing the Way Meetings in North Texas
80. Arlington Association Home Educators (AAHE) -- Arlington
81. Denton County Christian Home School Association -- Denton
82. How Now Homeschooling -- Plano/Frisco/Allen/McKinney area
83. Keller 4H Club Meetings -- Keller
84. Lewisville Area Speech and Debate Club -- Lewisville
85. North Irving Christian Home Educators -- Irving
86. Park Day Drama Club -- Plano
87. Ready to Answer Speech and Debate -- Decatur
88. SALT Co-Op -- DeSoto
89. Homeschoolers Offering Moms Encouragement (HOME) -- Flower Mound
COLLEGE PREP
90. SAT Test Dates
91. SAT Prep Classes with Jean Burk -- Across North Texas
COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS FOR HOMESCHOOLERS
92. Baylor and Air Force ROTC (AFROTC) Scholarship -- Deadline December 1, 2008
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
93. Volunteer Opportunities Available for Home School Students in 21 Counties -- American Cancer Society
94. Learn to Laugh in Another Language: Be a Host Family for a Foreign-Exchange Student -- INTO EdVENTURES
95. Homeschool Volunteers Needed to Deliver Hot Meals -- Meals On Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County
96. Volunteers Needed to Serve Meals at The Stewpot -- Dallas -- The Stewpot
OTHER EVENTS BY DATE
97. Heritage Farmstead Museum's Home School Resource Day -- January 23
98. Private Piano Lessons in Your Home! -- Dallas Area
99. HEART of Texas Regional Home School College Night -- Grapevine -- January 27
100. "Jag Day" at Jacksonville College -- Jacksonville -- February 7
101. Homeschool Week at Snow Mountain Ranch -- Colorado -- February 8-13
102. Southern England Study Tour for Homeschoolers -- March 2009
103. Teen Pact Texas Capitol Classes -- Austin -- March/April 2009
JOB OPENINGS
104. Check-In Receptionist, Check-Out Receptionist, and Technician Positions Open -- DeSoto Area
105. Great Opportunities for Students at Pump It Up of Grapevine
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FEATURED ARTICLE
Get Ready for the Second Annual HEART of Texas Regional Homeschool College Night!
Registration is now open for the HEART of Texas Regional Homeschool College Night, which will be held Tuesday, January 27, 2009, from 6-9 p.m. at the Grapevine Convention Center.
We are so excited about this year's college night! We have already received confirmations from most of the colleges who attended last year, and have even heard from a few new ones who wish to participate, including Patrick Henry College, Hillsdale College, Tarleton State, and Ouachita Baptist!
We are going to have a few more speaking sessions than we had last year, and are working on a special surprise that we won't be able to confirm until after January 14. If the surprise works out, we let you know right away!
We will be finalizing the speaking schedule very soon, once we confirm with our speakers, many of who are returning from their college break the first week of January.
We know finances are tight, so it is our goal to make this college night as affordable as possible. However, if your family is
having a financial difficulty please contact us and we can offer a partial scholarship.
All homeschool families are welcome! This is not just for high school students. As you know, homeschool parents are the guidance counselors for their students, and we need to be as prepared as possible for graduation. If your child is not yet in high school, it's a good idea to come and find out ahead of time what the various colleges are looking for so you can be prepared.
Admission:
Pre-registrations received by January 16, 2009 (postmark date)
$15 per family – for pre-registrations received by January 14, 2008 (postmark date)
$10 per family – HEART of Texas Members with a valid Family I.D. card (must show at the door)
At the Door:
$10 per person (ages 5 and up)
To Register Online:
Fill out the online form located at http://www.heartoftex.org/college/familyreg/familyreg.php
Mail a check made payable to:
HEART of Texas
P.O. Box 211882
Bedford, TX 76095-1882
To Register By Mail:
Click here and select "College Night 2009 Registration" document.
Please mail payment (made payable to HEART of Texas) and registration form to:
HEART of Texas
P.O. Box 211882
Bedford, TX 76095-1882
We look forward to this opportunity for your family to meet with college representatives from various colleges and learn how to best prepare your child for college.
If you have any questions, please contact us at info@heartoftex.org
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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. Just mention HEART of Texas when you call.
The performances and dates that are available for the special homeschool price are:
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
NEST Family Learning Offering Discount and Free Shipping to Our Readers!
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.
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
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 PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM
Location: 101 E. Hunt Street
McKinney, TX 75069
972-547-READ
Contact: Wendy Turner – wturner@mckinneytexas.org or 972-547-7319
HOME SCHOOL PROGRAMS FOR FALL 2008
Registration is required.
DECEMBER 4: Getting to Know Your Library
*Please choose one date to attend.
Grades: K—3rd
Time: 10:30 a.m.
Dulaney Room
Details: Participate in a special program to learn more about the library and the Children’s Dept.
DECEMBER 8: Basic PowerPoint
Grades: 4th—6th
Time: 3:30 p.m.
Conference Room (Upstairs)
Details: Gain hands-on experience and make a basic PowerPoint presentation.
DECEMBER 15, 22, 29 & JANUARY 5, 12: Texas BlueBonnet Book Club
Grades: 3rd—6th
Time: 3:15 p.m.
Children’s Department
Details: The Bluebonnet book club will meet five times to discuss all of the 2008/2009 Bluebonnet book nominees and then participants will vote for their favorite nominee.
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
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
2008 CONTEST OVER
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8. IGNITING CREATIVE ENERGY CONTEST FOR K-12
FEBRUARY 13, 2009 --- ENTRY DEADLINE
The Challenge is an incentive based educational opportunity for students K-12 throughout the U.S. and much of Canada. Students are asked to use their creative energy to develop entries in the categories of Visual Arts and Music, Science and Technology, and Language Arts. Entries are to relate to the theme "Igniting Creative Energy" and demonstrate character building as it applies to wise energy choices and environmental stewardship. The entries are also to demonstrate an understanding of what an individual, family or group can do to make a difference in their home or community.
Who Can Enter? All students, kindergarten through 12th grade in the United States and Canada are invited to enter. Void in Quebec. Travel Prize Winners must be students and teachers at an accredited K-12 public or private school and may not be immediate family members of Johnson Controls, Inc., USEA or National Energy Foundation employees.
Can home school students enter? Yes. All students K-12 are invited to enter. However, home school students are not eligible for the grand prize.
Awards: There are separate prizes for elementary, middle school and high school students in addition to a teacher prize. The grand prize in each category is a trip for two to Hawaii. In addition to the national grand prizes each state has a prizewinner.
Various local, state and national partners are providing extra awards and recognition above and beyond the national grand prize trip:
1. The highest scoring student in each state and province will receive a prize package valued at $1,000 U.S. If you are a national winner, you will not be recognized as a state or province winner.
2. A lighting project winner will be announced. The student with the highest scoring project that addresses lighting as it related to the theme Igniting Creative Energy will win a special prize for the student and an energy-efficient lighting upgrade for a designated area within his or her school. If you are a national grand prize winner, you will not be eligible to win this award.
3. Some cities, state energy offices, and individual school districts wanting to recognize students in their specific geographical areas are sponsoring local challenges. Click on Local Challenges to see the participating areas and the awards that are available.
Official Online Entry Form: Click here
Mail In Entry Form: Click Here
For Guidelines: Click Here
To Enter:
Follow these simple steps:
1. Think about how you use electricity, gasoline, natural gas...energy (ex. electricity, gasoline, natural gas and/or if you could use less or how you could help your community use less).
2. Think of a creative new way to use less energy.
3. Use your talents and skills to create an exciting unusual project that will communicate your idea to someone else. Your project could be a science project, essay, story, artwork, photograph, music, video or web site project.
4. Write a one page explanation of how your project relates to the theme. Be sure to include the following: * What motivated you to enter this Challenge?
* What actions and ideas are you trying to express?
* What is the impact of your project in your life and/or in the lives of others?
5. Make sure your name is on your project.
6. Complete the entry form. Make sure that you have your parents or legal guardian and teacher sign it.
7. Mail your project, entry form and explanation to:
IGNITING CREATIVE ENERGY CHALLENGE
NATIONAL ENERGY FOUNDATION
145 South 400 East
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
8. Wait patiently.
9. Sit back and feel great about doing something yourself to conserve energy and help the environment.
10. Grand Prize winners will be notified.
If you aren't selected for the Grand Prize trip, no worries there is always next year. Plus you may be featured on the ICE web site for the world to see.
For More Information: Click Here
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9. 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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10. 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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11. 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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12. 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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13. 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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14. THEO IN PLANO OFFERING CLASSES FOR HOMESCHOOLERS
CLASSES OFFERED at THEO
FALL 2008 CLASSES
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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15. 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.
DECEMBER/JANUARY
Registration Open for 6th, 7th, 8th/9th grade
Literature/writing, math, English, and Science dissection lab
What if your home education student could be enriched one, two, or three days a week in literature/writing (Tue/Thur), math (pick your 3 days a week), English (pick your three days a week), or Science dissection labs (Mon)....there is so much opportunity to learn! This is the perfect way to round out your home education. Christian Cottage Prep works closely with parents to find the right mix of curriculum and level that makes your student blossom to their fullest potential.
Second semester begins January 6, 2009
Parents attend for FREE!
Location: 5601 Bridge Street, Suite 335
Fort Worth, TX 76112
Contact: 817-975-6209 or click here to email the director
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16. CHRISTIAN EDUCATORS RECOURCE CENTER IN ROWLETT
Christian Educators Resource Center is a dedicated homeschool bookstore that offers new and used curriculum, faith-based readers and educational resources. It also has classrooms available for co-operative teaching.
New Classes for Spring (Pre-k through 12th):
Registration Deadline: December 5
Chef’s in the Making
Cooking Fun
Introductory Spanish
Drama I
Health and Nutrition
People Skills 101
“Speak Before You Think”: Beginning Public Speaking
Macaroni & Please
Proud to Be Polite
Babysitter’s Guide to Survival
Handling Money God’s Way
Total Health: Integrating God’s Perspective
Financial Peace University
Encore! High School Speech
The Solar System and Beyond
Thinking Outside the Box
A Trip Through the US
See our Schedule and find Registration Forms on-line under CLASSES
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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17. 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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18. CLASSES AT CREATIVE ARTS IN ACTION
Creative Arts in Action, located in Watauga, provides the best in curriculum, classes and classical theatre.
Spring 2009 Classes!
We are excited at the expanded array of classes and teachers God has blessed us with.
MONDAY
Intro to Theatre with Anicia Brown – Grades K-3
Musical Theatre with Anicia Brown – Grades 8-12
Readers Theatre with Rosie Watson – Grades 4-6
Jane Eyre Production with Anicia Brown – Auditions Only
TUESDAY
Junior Musical Theatre with Anicia Brown – Grades 4-8
Acting Up with Anicia Brown – Grades 4-7
Intro to Theatre with Anicia Brown – Grades K-3
Around the World in 180 Days with Kathy Abelanet – Grades 3-4
Around the World in 180 Days with Kathy Abelanet – Grades 5-6
Sound of Music Production with Anicia Brown – Auditions Only
WEDNESDAY
Super-Math 3 with Amie Pollock
Super-Math 5 with Sherri Heinzman
Super-Math 7 with Bianca Anderson
Dramatic Studies (Romeo & Juliet) with Anicia Brown – Grades 8-12
Common Sense Economics with Sherri Heinzman – Grades 9-12
Stage Direction & Management with Anicia Brown – Grades 8-12
Speech with Rosie Watson – Grades 7 & up
THURSDAY
Exploring Art 2 with Christine Palmer – Grades 4-6
Exploring Art 1 with Christine Palmer – Grades 1-3
Science Explosions with Krystal Bare – Grades 4-6
Studio Art II with Christine Palmer – Grades 7-9
Stage Craft with Yolanda Cranford – Ages 13 & up
FRIDAY
Exploring Art 1 with Christine Palmer – Grades 1-3
Beginning Drawing with Christine Palmer – Grades 3-6
Teaching Science through Literature with Kath Abelanet – Grades 1-3
Studio Art with Christine Palmer – Grades 7-9
Super-Math Captains Course with Dr. Miles Jones – Must have completed a semester of Super-Math
Super-Math 9 – SAT Math Prep with Dr. Miles Jones – Pre-requisite Super-Math 8
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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19. EASTFIELD COLLEGE
Homeschool Connection
Parent & Student Orientation Meeting Schedule
(One meeting is required each semester before registering for the graded homeschool connection courses.)
For SPRING 2009 Registration
January 10, 2009, at 9-11am, Building C, Room 118
January 17, 2009, at 9 a.m., Building C , Room 118
For Registration or Other Information: Contact Mary Ann Fitzsimmons at 972-860-7017 or Click Here to Email Mary Ann
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20. 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
www.enrichmentclasses.org
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21. 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.
Academic classes through 5th grade: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Classes include Math, English, Science, and Social Studies.
Enrichment classes through 5th grade: Tuesdays and Thursdays
Classes include Spanish, Music, Drama, Bible, P.E., Art, Crafts, and more!)
6th -7th grade Enrichment classes: Mondays
Classes include Stock Market Game, Speech, Music Multi Media, Bible, and Study Skills. Students also have the opportunity to participate in the National InvestWrite Essay Competition.
8th grade Elective and Academics classes: Mondays/Tuesdays/Thursdays:
Classes include Algebra I, English, Earth and Space Science w/LABS (approved 4x4 class by the Tx. SBOE), Government, Music Multi Media, Spanish, Bible, Study Skills, “College Prep Genius” SAT Lab, Stock Market Game, Speech, and *National InvestWrite Essay Competition
High School Elective and Academics classes: Mondays/Tuesdays/Thursdays:
Classes include Algebra I, English, Earth and Space Science w/LABS (approved 4x4 class by the Tx. SBOE), Government, Music Multi Media, Spanish, Bible, Study Skills, “College Prep Genius” SAT Lab, Stock Market Game, Speech, and *National InvestWrite Essay Competition.
*FCA Home School student won the National InvestWrite Essay Competition Fall of 2007! He received a school trophy, class party, a lap top computer and a trip to New York!
Chapel: Preschool through High School
Community Service Opportunity: Habitat for Humanity community service projects offered to students 14 years and older. For information on how to participate in the next project, click here to e-mail Terrie Odonnell
Stanford Achievement Testing:
Spring 2009 Testing Date TBD (call 972-562-5323 ext. 22 for details)
SAT College Prep Genius 2 Day Workshop:
November 24 and 25 from 9:00 am - 2:30pm
FCA will offer a rigorous TWO DAY course by Jean Burk designed to teach students the techniques needed to become successful in taking the SAT and PSAT/NMSQT tests.
This course will equip students with the necessary strategies and tips that can help increase their test scores. Students will also learn how to dispel common practices and misconceptions about the
SAT that can harm their scores. Workshop CLASSES ARE LIMITED!!!!
To reserve a spot, please register online
Fall classes are still taking enrollment.
To see 2008 Fall Home School Class Schedule, visit this link and click on age/grade level
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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22. FABULOUS FRIDAYS IN LITTLE ELM
Hands on experiments will be an exciting part of this comprehensive science curriculum taught by Kidz Science, for grades K-5th! Everything from Chemical Reactions to Weather to Solar Photography will be offered during this 12 week course!
FRIDAYS
FEBRUARY 6 - MAY 1
Time: 10 am - 10:45 am - Karate (runs 10 weeks, with Oct. 10 & 24 off)
11 am - Noon - Kidz Science
(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: $40 Deposit (will apply toward tuition)
Karate: $50/month; no registration fees; $25 for optional uniforms
Kidz Science: $120 total or pay in $40 installments.
Current members have first dibs on spots - only 30 spots total and we filled them ALL this Fall!
To Register: Please email Jennifer by Clicking Here to confirm your interest and get your name at the top of the list.
Once I reply with your confirmation.....THEN MAIL your $40 deposit to:
Jennifer Mcbride
2639 Greyhawk Dr.
Little Elm, TX 75068
For More Information: Jennifer McBride at Jenjas5@yahoo.com
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23. 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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24. 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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25. 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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26. 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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27. 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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28. TARRANT COUNTY COLLEGE MATH AND SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL CLASSES
FOR HOME SCHOOLERS
Math Classes Offered Spring 2009:
Please register by December 12
Southeast Campus
Algebra II (MTHX 2001-45022; Syn. 0137870)
T/TH 3-4:30pm (January - May)
Geometry (MTHX 1000-45023; Syn. 0137871)
M/TH 9am-Noon (January - May)
Advanced Math (College Algebra) (MTHX 1011-40654; Syn. 0144956)
MWF 1-3pm (January 12 - March 6)
Northwest Campus
Algebra II (MTHX-2001-31287; Syn. 0138181)
Mon 8am-10am (January - May)
Geometry (MTHX 1001-31285; Syn. 0138182)
Mon 10am-Noon (January - May)
FREE math assessment tests offered upon request.
Cost equates to $3.50 an hour, $166 for entire semester including book.
For More Information about the Math Classes: Call Maurine Amend at 972-660-8414 or Click Here to email her.
Science Classes Offered Spring 2009:
Northeast Campus (Dept of Continuing Education):
High School Biology Laboratory (BIOX 1430)
M/W 12:10-2:00 p.m. (January 26 - April 22)
Must be at least 14 years of age to take this class.
To sign up online: www.tccd.edu
For More Information about the Biology Class: Call Katherine Hoffman at 817-515-6946 or Click Here to email her.
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29. 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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30. YMCA OF IRVING HOME SCHOOL CLASSES
SPRING REGISTRATION OPENS DECEMBER 1
SPRING 2009 CLASSES:
Mondays from 9:30 - 10:25 a.m.
Advanced Lego (ages 12-14); $75 class fee; $10 supply fee
Kid's Math (ages 5-8); $75 class fee; $10 material fee
Monday/Thursday from 9:30 - 10:25 a.m.
Beginner Spanish (age 9-11); $120 class fee; $20 material fee
Mondays from 10:30 - 11:25 a.m.
Math Explorer (ages 12-14); $75 class Fee; $10 material fee
Beginner Lego (ages 9-11), $75 class fee; $10 material fee
Magic of Science (ages 5-8); $75 class fee; $10 material fee
Mondays from 11:30 - 12:25p.m.
Basketball (ages 6-11); $60 class fee; no material fee
Mondays/Thursday from 11:30 a.m. - 12:25p.m.
Spanish II (ages 12-14); $120 class fee; $75 book fee
Fridays from 10:30am - 11:25a.m.
Fun with Art (Crafts) (ages 5-8); $75 class fee; no material fee
Focus on the Arts (Artists) (ages 9-11); $75 class fee; $20 material fee
Dissection (ages 12-14); $75 class fee; $20 material fee
Friday from 11:30a.m. - 12:25p.m.
Basketball (ages 6-11); $60 class fee; no material fee
For More Information or to Register: Contact 972-986-8898
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31. 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.
WICHITA FALLS – February 7
Time: Noon - 5 p.m.
Location: Friends of the Library Bookstore
Wichita Falls Public Library
600 11th Street
For More Information: 940-767-0868 ext 248
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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HURST – February 20
Time: Fri: 5-7 p.m.; Sat: 9am - 6pm
Location: Hurst Public Library
901 Precinct Line Road
817-788-7300
Books: 10,000+ books; 50% donated; not picked over; .50 - $1;
last hour-$2 brown bag
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CARROLLTON – February 26 - March 1
Time: Thurs, Fri, Sat: 10a.m. - 9p.m.
Sun: 12p.m. - 6p.m.
Location: Trinity Valley Shopping Center
(N. Josey Lane & George Bush Tollway 190)
972-968-6230
Contact for More Info: 972-968-6230
Books: Over 100,000 books
Thursday - $1 paperbacks; $2 hardbacks
Friday - .75 paperbacks; $1.50 hardbacks
Saturday - .50 paperbacks; $1 hardbacks
Sunday - Box of books: $12 box OR .25 paperbacks, .50 hardbacks
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32. 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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33. 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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34. 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.
Visit them at their NEW Location:
401 E. Church St
Lewisville, TX 75057
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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35. 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.
January 2009
* 14th - Nature Awareness Day Camp
* 15th - Nature Awareness Day Camp
* 17th to 18th - Primitive Survival Skills Class 1
* 24th - Horsemanship Day Camp
* 25th - Primitive Survival Skills Day Camp - Shelter
HORSE EVENTS/ACTIVITIES
Horsemanship Day Camps
Many extra camps have been book through out this autumn, week ends and week days! If you are not with a group, and wanted to join any one of the many scheduled days, we have a few opening in each - perfect for homeschoolers, just call for available dates.
Horse Lease Program
To help cover the cost of our horses upkeep, we have a horse lease program. Adults and children with some experience can pay for a monthly usage of one of our horses and then enjoy partial ownership - grooming, riding, feeding, training. Detailed information is on the web site.
Donations
Barn Repair - TIME : Helpers who know how to use a hammer / MONEY : to pay for supplies
Feed - Soon we will need to be graining the horses, come on out with a bag of feed to help and then ride!
Horse Birthday Parties
Great family or friend event. Bring your own cake and ice cream, we provide the rest
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.
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.
Group Rates Available!
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.
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:
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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36. 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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37. FORT WORTH NATURE CENTER AND REFUGE PROGRAMS
JANUARY 11 - Courtyard Birds
Time: 1 - 3pm
Admission: Free with paid admission
Winter birds of the Nature Center are getting their much needed calories at the birdfeeders to endure the winter months. We are uncertain as to which birds will frequent the courtyard. There may be some surprises. Join us for a look at some of our local winter birds in the courtyard.
JANUARY 25 - Rainwater Harvesting
Time: 1-3p.m.
Admission: Free with paid admission)
Fresh water is one of our most precious natural resources. Rainwater harvesting , landscaping with native plants, and planting water catchment gardens are just a few of the many ways we can conserve water. As a bonus saving water also saves us money. At 2p.m. you can build your own harvester. Supplies limited.
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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38. FOSSIL RIM HOME SCHOOL CLASSES AND EVENTS
January Events:
JANUARY 12 -- Animal Fashions Class & Tour
Time: 10:00-2:30ish.
Break for Lunch: 12:00-1:00
Guided Tour of Fossil Rim: 1:00-2:30ish
Details:
To Register: homeschool@fossilrim.org or call 254-897-2960 ext. 216
JANUARY 26 -- Cheetah Class & Tour
Time: 10:00-2:30ish.
Break for Lunch: 12:00-1:00
Guided Tour of Fossil Rim: 1:00-2:30ish
Details:
To Register: homeschool@fossilrim.org or call 254-897-2960 ext. 216
February Events:
FEBRUARY 9 -- Colors By Nature Class & Tour
Time: 10:00-2:30ish.
Break for Lunch: 12:00-1:00
Guided Tour of Fossil Rim: 1:00-2:30ish
Details:
To Register: homeschool@fossilrim.org or call 254-897-2960 ext. 216
FEBRUARY 23 -- Homeschool Robin Hood Day Camp
For more Details: www.fossilrim.com/visiting/home_school.html
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39. 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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40. 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 (26 hours of classtime)
JANUARY 13 - APRIL 1 (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: January 5, 2009
Classes:
Which Ology is Which? – Earth and Planetary Science
Age: 5 year olds
Description: How does hail form? How many kinds of lava are there? What is special about our oceans? Weather, Oceans, Earthquakes, Volcanoes, Moon, Stars and Planets are some of the wonderful topics we will learn about and have fun with. Hands on interactive lessons and outdoor adventure await your little scientist!
Discover Your World: Planet Earth
Ages: 6-7 year olds
Description: What is inside the Earth? How are rocks made? How do clouds form? Why does it get cold in the winter? Can we live on any other planet? These are just some of the questions we will explore as we take a look at how our amazing planet works. Topics include weather and seasons; earthquakes, volcanoes, hurricanes and tsunamis; rocks, minerals and fossils; and the solar system.
Amazing Adaptations
Ages: 8-9 year olds
Description: Adaptations: What are they? What do they look like? Who has them? How can you tell? The answers to these and other interesting questions will be investigated in this animal study during class and on the wildlife sanctuary. Learning and interaction with live animals are part of this course.
Earth Trek III – Living on the Planet
Ages: 10-12 year olds
Description: The culmination of Earth Treks I and II, this class will study where and how animals live on Earth in their respective ecosystems around the world, including adaptations to habitats, weather and climate and human encroachment as well as effects of global climate change, pollution, and natural disasters.
To register: Download Registration form by clicking here
Download Medical Record form by clicking here
Please note that you will need to submit a medical record form including immunization history to be able to participate in the program.
Complete application includes:
• Registration form
• Medical Record Form
• Payment according to selected payment plan
Only complete application packets will be processed. Birth certificates and medical record forms already on file at the museum may be used. One registration form per participant. Complete applications processed on a first-come, first-served basis. If you are paying by check and fax your reservation it won't be complete until the check is received.
For more information:smann@heardmuseum.org
972-562-5566 x237
Location: One Nature Place
McKinney, TX 75069
www.heardmuseum.org
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41. HERITAGE FARMSTEAD MUSEUM -- PLANO
The Museum Grounds are Open Year-Round (Except Mondays and Holidays)
Tuesday - Sunday 9:00am - 4:30pm
JANUARY 23 -- Home School Resource Day
Time: 1p.m. - 3p.m.
Location: Heritage Farmstead Museum
1900 West 15th Street
Plano, TX 75075
Cost: $5/person - registration received by January 14
$7/person after January 14
Historic House grounds Tours
Blacksmith Demonstration
Lesson on Turn of the Century School Life
Lesson about life on the North Texas Blackland Prairie at the turn of the century
Make a Victorian era craft
FRIDAYS AT THE FARMSTEAD (Programs last 90 minutes)
For Children Ages 2-5
Time: 10:30
Cost: $6/child/program & $3/adult
To Register: Call 972-881-0140
NOTE: Prepayment and registration are required. Registrations are welcome until Wed noon for the Friday program that same week. All fees are non-refundable.
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.
DECEMBER 19 – Victorian Christmas
Children will experience topics of discovery relating to games, crafts and food preparation for a
Victorian party.
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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42. SHARKAROSA WILDLIFE RANCH
Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch sits on 126 breathtaking acres near Lake Ray Roberts in Denton County, Texas. Our mission is to provide the North Texas community with the opportunity to experience rare and endangered exotic wildlife in a unique and personal setting. What better way to learn about conservation than by seeing it up close and hands on?
Open to the Public Days are every Saturday March through November. All other events require an advanced reservation. We offer educational park offers field trips, private tours, open to the public Saturdays and rental for events large and small! Group camping, bucket train rides & dining area help make Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch your next wild adventure!
Open to the Public Days (MARCH - NOVEMBER)
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 "Visitors Guide" 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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43. 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.
The Modern Victory Gardens: a Community Garden Educational Series Topics
JANUARY 10: Soil and bed preparation, seed selection and starting plants from seed, cold frames, hardening off, mulching, composting and planning with the almanac.
MARCH 14: Preparation for planting, when and what to plant, planting techniques, feeding and fertilizing, companion planting, integrated pest control.
MAY 30: Harvesting, mulching, summer maintenance and tips. Plants available for sale in the Greenhouse.
Time: 9 am to noon
Cost: $25 per class; $20 for members
Details: Tired of $3 bell peppers at the grocery store and the $4 gas that gets you there? Join a growing trend and learn how to create a bountiful community or backyard garden. Texas Discovery Gardens presents its inaugural Community Garden educational series Nov. 15, 2008. We start with discussions on composting and Fall bed prep. Join our panel of three garden gurus to learn how to cultivate your community garden and talk with other garden enthusiasts in the Dallas area.
Meet the panel:
*Randy Johnson, horticulturist for Texas Discovery Gardens, enjoys trying different vegetable crops in the Gardens. His specialties are native plants of Texas and organic gardening.
* Neli Spurrell, Children's Education Coordinator for Texas Discovery Gardens and certified Master Composter, has a background in forestry and spends her free time gardening, composting and rainwater harvesting at her home in Rockwall.
* A.L. Nickerson is a local supporter of community gardens and started the first community garden in Lake Highlands in April 2008.
Regular Admission & Hours:
$3/adults; $2 seniors (60+); $1.50 children 3-12yrs; free children under 3yrs.
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm. Last ticket sold at 4:30 pm.
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 SATURDAYS – 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.
Time: 10am - 11am
Cost: Free with garden admission.
Pre-Registration is required.
CHILDREN'S OUTDOOR EDUCATION PROGRAMS
Cost: $5/person; $60 minimum fee per program
Availability: Tuesday - Friday, 9am-4pm
To Make Reservations: 214-428-7476
Gardening for Children - introduction to gardening and seeds. Students even plant thier own seeds to take back to the classroom. (Grades Pre-K - 2)
Butterflies, Bugs & Botany - Insects and their amazing lives help students inderstand the concepts of adaptation, habitats, and pollination. (Grades 1-8)
Terrarium Worlds - Your class will build a terrarium (a home for a plant) and see the water cycle, the carbon-oxygen cycle, and the nitrogen cycle in action. (Grades 1-8)
Life in the Compost Bin - Recycling and decomposition come alive as students see that an ecosystem is powered by a complex web of creatures and energy. (Grades 1-8)
Math in Nature - Math is seen as a real world tool as students visit diverse garden habitats to record data, such as temperatures, time, and mesurements. (Grades 2-8)
Careers in the Garden - Explore the various careers that are necessasry to keep the garden beautiful and running, including landscape design and greenhouse management. (Grades 2-8)
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. Wealso work with Scout Leaders to put together Webelos and Eagle Scout projects, and have a number ofCommunity 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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44. TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT ACTIVITIES
ATHENS, TX
NOVEMBER 8 - DECEMBER 14 — OWAA Outdoor Photo Exhibit
Location: Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center
Time: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Cost: FREE with admission to the Center
Details: Winning photos from the Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA) annual photography contest are on display in the Visitor Center. The exhibit includes color and black-and-white photos that bring the beauty and wonder of the outdoors indoors. "Stretching Great Gray" by Eric J. Hansen of Corvallis, Oregon, brings you eye to eye with a gray owl. "Helping Hand" by Fred Greenslade of Winnipeg, Manitoba, puts you right in the middle of a muddy hunt. Gary Kramer, of Willow, California, captured awesome lightning strikes in his photo "Prairie Storm." The exhibit also includes photos of people enjoying outdoor recreational activities. Five categories of photos are represented: scenic, flora, people, action and fauna.
For More Information: 903-676-BASS.
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CEDAR HILL, TX
DECEMBER 20 – Skeletons of Winter
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 2:00 - 3p.m.
Details: Learn to identify trees of the area apart from their green leaves. We will look at bark, branching, and other aspects of trees to identify them. Learn the stories behind the trees as well. Meet at the Duck Pond Trail Head.
For More Information: 972-291-5940 or 972-291-3900, ext. 232.
DECEMBER 27 – Penn Farm Tour
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 2:00 - 3:30 p.m.
Details: Learn what life on the farm was like from the 1850s to the 1950s.
For More Information: 972-291-5940 or 972-291-3900, ext. 232.
JANUARY 3 – Mammals - Our Furry Friends
Location: Cedar Hill State Park
Time: 1-2p.m.
Details: Learn about the different mammals at the park as we share different stories about the animals. Includes skins and skulls to see and touch and maybe even learn a song or two to help us remember our animal friends.Held at the Penn Farm Amphitheater.
For More Information: 972-291-5940 or 972-291-3900, ext. 232.
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DENTON, TX
No events at this location this month.
Location: Eisenhower State Park
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EUSTACE, TX (Henderson/Van Zandt Counties)
JANUARY 10 – Campfire Skills
Location: Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Call: 903-425-2332.
Details: Campfires were once essential survival skill, now campfires are mostly for enjoyment around a campsite. Come learn basic fire building skills, the use of safe fire starters and how to keep kids safe. Bring marshmallows to roast and enjoy a movie afterwards. Accessible for the mobility impaired.
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JACKSBORO, TX
JANUARY 17 – Family Fishing Day
Location: Fort Richardson State Park & Historical Site & Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway
Time: 9 a.m. - Noon
Details: Bring the family to fish on Quarry Lake. Prizes given out for first fish, biggest fish and most fish caught. The lake will be stocked with rainbow trout, bass, catfish and perch. Accessible for the mobility impaired.
For More Information: 940-567-3506.
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MINERAL WELLS, TX
DECEMBER 20 — Penitentiary Hollow Wild Walk
Location: Lake Mineral Wells SP & Trailway
Time: 1p.m. - 3p.m.
Details: Join Park Interpreter David Owens on a wild walk, crawl and scoot through some of the most remote areas of beautiful Penitentiary Hollow. This is a strenuous walk involving some crawling through tight spaces in rock cracks, crevices and short caves, so expect to get dirty!
Call: 940-328-1171.
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PILOT POINT, TX
Ray Roberts Lake SP/Johnson Branch Unit
DECEMBER 20 — Trout for the Holidays
Location: Ray Roberts Lake SP/Johnson Branch Unit
Time: 9a.m. - 1p.m.
Details: Have FUN this holiday season and catch your limit of rainbow trout at the 1st Annual Kid's Trout Fishing Derby There will be casting contests and prizes for smallest trout, largest trout and biggest stringer of five trout. Tackle and bait will be provided, but you can also bring your own. Accessible for the mobility impaired.
For More Information: (940) 637-2294.
Ray Roberts Lake/Isle du Bois Unit
No events in December at this location
NOVEMBER 29 — 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.
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ROCKWALL, TX
No events in November at this location
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TYLER, TX
JANUARY 3 — Dutch Oven Cooking Demonstration
Location: Tyler State Park
Time: 10 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.
Details: Learn the basics of the fine art of historic camp cooking with cast iron! Visit with members of the Dogwood Chapter of the Lone Star Dutch Oven Society. CAUTION: You will be hooked! Accessible for the mobility impaired.
For More Information: 903-597-5338
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Free TPWD Coloring and Activity Books to Download: www.tpwd.state.tx.us/publications/learning/color/
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45. 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:
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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46. 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:
JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 8 -- Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court
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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47. COTTAGE THEATER – CREATIVE ARTS IN ACTION
Creative Arts in Action’s Cottage Theater Presents:
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 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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48. 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:
FEBRUARY 6 - 28 -- Harvey
This Pulitzer-Prize winningplay by Mary Chase is about a man whose best friend is a "pooka" (a mischievous, magical creature from Celtic mytholgy) named Harvey - in the firm of a six-foot three-and-one-half inch rabbit. The classic story iof Elwood is one of the most beloved and enduring comedies of the century; in 1950 it was made into amove sarring James Stewart as Elwood.
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:
JANUARY 3 - 31 -- The Emperor and the Nightingale
Follows the story of a beautiful singing nightingale who learns a lesson about love and believing in herself.
FEBRUARY 7 - 28 -- The Brave Little Tailor
A brave little tailor outsmarts two giants pretending to be queens.
MARCH 7 - APRIL 11 -- Disney's Aladdin, Jr.
Take a magic carpet ride in the adaption of the Disney hit, Includes Aladdin, Jasmine, and or course, the Genie.
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!!
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49. PERFORMANCES AT BASS PERFORMANCE HALL
Broadway at the Bass Presents:
FEBRUARY 3 - 8 -- CATS
MARCH 10-15 -- High School Musical On Stage
APRIL 21-26 -- Driving Miss Daisy (Pulitzer Prize-Winning Play by Alfred Uhry)
Tickets: $75 Orchestra/Box Tier; $65 Mezzanine; $45 Lower Gallery; $30 Upper Gallery
Location: Bass Performance Hall
Fort Worth, TX
To Order Tickets: 817-212-4280 or 817-332-2272
Discount Group Tickets (10 or more): 817-321-5028
To Order Tickets Online: Click Here
To Purchase Tickets at the Box Office or to Learn About Season Tickets:
Call 817-212-4280 or 817-332-2272.
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50. DALLAS CHILDREN’S THEATER PERFORMANCES
2008 - 2009 Season:
JANUARY 23 - FEBRUARY 22 -- Click, Clack, Moo Cows That Type
FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 1 -- Honus & Me
MARCH 20 - APRIL 19 -- The Tale of Peter Rabbit
APRIL 3 - MAY 3 --- dont u luv me? (young adult series)
MAY 1 - MAY 17 -- And Then They Came for Me (young adult series)
JUNE 19 - JULY 26 -- The Neverending Story
Ticket Prices:
Lap Pass for Children under 3 years: $6.00
Please note that DCT does not encourage the attendance of children under 3 years of age.
Performance Times for Public Performances
(Unless otherwise indicated on individual show pages)
Fridays 7:30pm
Saturdays 1:30pm
Sundays at 1:30pm & 4:30pm
Box Office Hours
9am to 5pm, Monday - Friday
Ticket Sales are subject to availability.
Reservations are recommended and require prepayment with either
Cash, Check, Mastercard,Visa, or Amex.
Coupons and discount offers must be arranged in advance
with the box office and may be suspended at any time.
Tickets: To purchase individual tickets:
www.dct.org/Performances/ChooseaShow/tabid/181/Default.aspx
Student Matinees: Tuesday – Thursday at 10 a.m.
$7/person
(unless otherwise noted on their website)
Groups of 10 or more $7.00 per person
(1 FREE chaperone per 20 student tickets)
*Deposit required with reservation.
Balance due SIX WEEKS before performance.
Contact: 214-740-0051
www.dct.org/Performances/tabid/115/Default.aspx
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51. PLANO CHILDREN’S THEATER PERFORMANCES
JANUARY 16-24 – Wizard of Oz
JANUARY 23-31 – Villian Wore a Dirty Shirt, a Melodrama
FEBRUARY 6-21 – Peter Pan
FEBRUARY 6-21 – My Fair Lady
Location: Plano Children's Theatre
Tickets: $7 in advance and $9 at the door.
Location: Plano Children’s Theater
1301 Custer Road
Plano, TX 75075
Times: Fridays and Saturdays: 7:15 p.m.
Saturdays and Sundays: 2:15 p.m.
Tickets: $7 in advance; $9 at the door (children’s productions)
Contact: 972-422-2575
www.planochildrenstheatre.com/
NOTE: Some of these productions may not be appropriate for children. Please use your own judgment when considering allowing your children/family to view these productions.
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52. TEXAS BALLET THEATER PERFORMANCES
The Texas Ballet Theater is offering homeschoolers special ticket pricing on the best seats available,
during select performances. The dates and times of these performances are listed below.
Please Note: Some performances may not be appropriate for all audiences. Please use your own judgment when considering allowing your children/family to view these productions.
2008-2009 SEASON
FEBRUARY 13, 14, 15 – Swan Lake
Location: The Majestic Theater, Dallas
Special Homeschool Tickets for February 14, 2pm Performance
Homeschool Price: $20/ticket (best available seating)
To Reserve Homeschool Tickets: Call Cyndee Weeks 877-828-9200, ext 126
You must mention HEART of Texas to get the special ticket price.
FEBRUARY 20, 21, 22 – Swan Lake
Location: Bass Hall Performance Hall, Ft. Worth
Special Homeschool Tickets for February 21, 2pm Performance
Homeschool Price: $20/ticket (best available seating)
To Reserve Homeschool Tickets: Call Cyndee Weeks 877-828-9200, ext 126
You must mention HEART of Texas to get the special ticket price.
MARCH 27, 28, 29 – Cleopatra (Rated PG-13)
Location: Bass Hall Performance Hall, Ft. Worth
Special Homeschool Tickets for March 28, 2pm Performance
Homeschool Price: $20/ticket (best available seating)
To Reserve Homeschool Tickets: Call Cyndee Weeks 877-828-9200, ext 126
You must mention HEART of Texas to get the special ticket price.
For General Ticket Information: 877-828-9200
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53. HOME SCHOOL DISCOUNT TICKETS TO DALLAS THEATER PERFORMANCES
These shows are put together by Susan Frederick of TAFFIE.
Dates are subject to change and shows are pending approval:
2008-2009 Season:
Bob the Builder: Feb. 21: 7p.m. & Feb. 22: 5p.m. (Majestic Theater)
Fiddler on the Roof: May 20 & 21: 8p.m. (Music Hall at Fair Park)
Wizard of Oz: June 18: 2p.m. 8p.m. (Music Hall at Fair Park)
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang: June 29: 8p.m. & July 2: 2p.m. (Music Hall at Fair Park)
Mary Poppins: September 24: 2p.m. & Sept 30: 8p.m. (Texas State Fair Show/Fair Park Music Hall)
101 Dalmatians: Date tba
Updates will be made on a regular basis as new shows become available.
and will be updated on Taffie's events page. Click Here for updates.
For the Texas State Fair shows, your theater ticket also gives you free admission to the fair for that day. In 2007 we had a great response for the Lion King but we skipped the Color Purple in 2008.
Questions: Click Here to Contact Susan Frederick
For other cities: - Click Here
FAQ section: - Click Here
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54. AMON CARTER EXHIBITS
Hours:
Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Thursday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sunday: Noon – 5 p.m.
Closed Mondays and major holidays
Admission: Admission to permanent collection is free.
Tickets for special exhibitions can be purchased at the information desk.
All galleries in the Amon Carter Museum offer barrier-free access.
Museum Exhibits:
SEPTEMBER 20 - JANUARY 11 (2009) -- Sentimental Journey: The Art of Alfred Jacob Miller
Embark on a captivating visual adventure in this special exhibition of paintings and drawings by Alfred Jacob Miller (1810–1874), the first American artist to journey into the heart of the Rocky Mountains. See his first-hand depictions of the Lakota, Shoshone, and Nez Perces he encountered, and meet the last of the true fur trappers and traders of the nineteenth-century American West.
OCTOBER 26 - APRIL 19 -- An American Original: George Bellows, His Lithographs, and the 1936 Texas Centennial
Experience the fascinating and diverse lithographs of famed American painter and printmaker George Bellows (1882–1925) in this special exhibition from the Carter’s permanent collection.
NOVEMBER 15 - FEBRUARY 15, 2009 -- Mary Lucier: the Plains of Sweet Regret
Enter a hauntingly beautiful world of landscape and loss in a video installation that brings into view, through music and imagery, the rapid depopulation of the northern plains. Laced with both melancholy and loveliness, this work by video artist Marcy Lulcier examines the seismic changes that have swept away family farms, and ranches, small towns, and rural schools.
SECOND SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH: Family Fun Days
Time: 1-4 p.m.
Admission: FREE
DECEMBER 14 -- Holiday Howdy
Get into the holiday spirit with fun art exploration and creative hands-on activities inspired by the Carter’s incredible collection of western art.
JANUARY 11 -- Arty Animals
Make tracks to the Carter for this fun-filled family day. Explore the “wild” side of the Carter’s collection, then unleash your creativity with art-making activities.
Location: Amon Carter Art Museum
3501 Camp Bowie Boulevard
Fort Worth, TX 76107
817-738-1933
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55. DALLAS MUSEUM OF ART EXHIBITS
Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs
October 3, 2008–May 17, 2009
Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohsprovides insight into the life of Tutankhamun and other royals of the 18th Dynasty (1555–1305 B.C.). All of the treasures in the exhibition are between 3,300 and 3,500 years old.
Tutankhamun was one of the last kings of Egypt’s 18th Dynasty and ruled during a crucial, turmoil-filled period of Egyptian history.The boy king died under mysterious circumstances around age 18 or 19, in the ninth year of his reign (1323 B.C.).
Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs offers glimpses of that evolving period. On display are fifty of Tutankhamun’s burial objects, including his royal diadem — the gold crown discovered encircling the head of his mummified body that he likely wore as king — and one of the gold and precious stone inlaid canopic coffinettes that contained his mummified internal organs.
More than seventy additional objects from tombs of 18th Dynasty royals, as well as several non-royal individuals, are also exhibited. These stone, faience, and wood pieces from burial sites before Tut’s reign give visitors a sense of what the lost burials of other royalty and commoners may have been like.
To Reserve Tickets for Your
Group:
Call Cilecia Foster at 213-763-2135 and mention HEART
of Texas when you call.
Information Flyer pdf available at: http://www.heartoftex.org/downloads/downloads.html
No deposit required to
make a reservation.
$100 Free Gas Card:
If your group is at least 50 miles from
the exhibit (every 40 people including students and
teachers), receive a $100 free gas card.
1 complimentary
chaperone ticket: For every 10 student
tickets purchased
Educators Guide/Lesson
Plans: Available on the website soon at
www.kingtut.org.
To View Exhibit Video:
Click
Here
For an Exhibition
Preview: Click
Here
Family Activities:
Family activities are free with paid admission. No registration is necessary.
Please call 214-922-1822 for more information.
Family Audio Tour:
Join Arturo, the Museum’s family mascot, for an interactive Family Audio Tour. Three fun-filled tours are available for ages 5–11 at the Visitor Services Desk at no charge.
Location: Dallas Museum of Art
1717 North Harwood
Dallas, Texas 75201
Hours: Tuesday and Wednesday: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Thursday: 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Closed Mondays, New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas
General Admission:
The general admission fee includes viewing the Museum’s permanent collection and most exhibitions. An audio tour of the permanent collection is included in general admission. Audio tours for adults and families are available.
Members FREE
Adults $10
Senior citizens (65 and over) $7
Students* $5 (with current school ID)
Children under 12 Free
Free on Thursday evenings from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Free on the first Tuesday of each month
Group Discounts (10 more more): Joanne Nichols at 214-922-1222
Or e-mail groupsales@DallasMuseumofArt.org.
For Information: 214-922-1200
To Purchase Advance Tickets: 214-922-1803
For more information about family experiences: 214-922-1822 or e-mail familyexperiences@DallasMuseumofArt.org.
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56. KIMBALL ART MUSEUM EXHIBITS
NOVEMBER 25 - JANUARY 25 -- Nativity from Naples: Presepe Sculpture from the Eighteenth Century
This Christmas season, the Kimbell plays host to an extraordinary loan from Naples, Italy: a magnificent, 18th-century Neapolitan Nativity scene—known in Italian as a presepe after the Latin word for “manger,” praesepe.
Seeing a fully installed presepe is a rare treat. There are only a few museums where complete presepe can be viewed, and most are of much lesser quality than the one coming to the Kimbell. For the most part, presepe figures are displayed singly, and it is only on extraordinary occasions—as with this loan to the Kimbell—that an ensemble is created and the complex art of the presepe is able to sing at its most glorious.
The Kimbell presepe will feature over 70 figures and animals (ranging up to about 15 inches tall) and be displayed in the traditional manner with a realistic, rocky setting. For those who have never stood face-to-face with an authentic Neapolitan Nativity scene, the level of detailing, craftsmanship, and artistry is sure to be astounding.
According to popular legend, St. Francis of Assisi founded the tradition of presepe when, in 1223, he reenacted the birth of Christ with live animals and actors at a town called Greccio in central Italy. In fact, such Nativity plays were much older, but it is undoubtedly true that with St. Francis there came a new desire to visualize Christ’s birth, and sculptural ensembles representing the Holy Family became a popular solution.
During the Renaissance, presepe figures were generally large (often life-size) and installed in churches. Some of the very earliest ones were in stone. The shift to terracotta happened in the late 15th century, and with that we find the first presepe figures of great lifelikeness. Throughout the 16th and 17th centuries, the tradition of presepe spread far and wide across Europe.
It took exceptionally strong root in Naples during the 18th century, a period of great political stability and economic boom, and the wealthiest Neapolitans—including their Bourbon kings—commissioned ever more elaborate presepe for display in their palaces at Christmas. Four scenes were traditionally represented: the group of the Holy Family, the Adoration of the Magi, the Adoration of the Shepherds, and what is known as the Taberna, which consisted of groups of ordinary townspeople acting out scenes from everyday life. The Taberna was sometimes the dominant scene, as Neapolitans had long cherished popular imagery. Eighteenth-century presepe also included many figures of African or Middle Eastern origin. Naples sat at the crossroads of the Mediterranean, and Neapolitans were fascinated with the exotic people who passed through their city.
The presepe that will be assembled at the Kimbell this Christmas will include figures by all the greatest sculptors who were active in Naples during the 18th century. Some were famous marble carvers like Giuseppe Sanmartino, while others, like Francesco Gallo, specialized in porcelain products at the royal porcelain factory at Capodimonte. The one skill at which they all excelled was modeling in clay. They generally delegated the painting of the figures to specialists, while hiring actual tailors to sew the miniature clothes, which are astounding for their richness and detail. The exhibition will include displays dedicated to the techniques of presepe sculpture, where visitors can appreciate how figures were made—from the construction of the wooden or metal armatures to the modeling in clay to the insertion of miniature glass eyes.
A critical part of any presepe is the arrangement of the figures and the creation of the background scenography. The Kimbell will bring a team of installers from Naples to ensure that the Kimbell’s presepe is presented according to 18th-century practices. Supervising the operation will be the leading expert on presepe, Elio Catello, whose family has collected and installed presepe since the early 19th century. He learned the art from his grandfather, Vincenzo, and his father Roberto, and has passed it on to his daughter, Roberta, who will also accompany the presepe to the Kimbell and has been instrumental in selecting the figures.
An illustrated book will accompany the display.
To Learn More About this Exhibit: Click Here
Hours: Mondays – Closed
Tuesdays–Thursdays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Fridays, noon–8 p.m.
Saturdays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Sundays, noon–5 p.m.
Closed New Year's Day, the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day
Admission to This Special Exhibit:
$14 for adults
$12 for seniors age 60 and over and students with ID
$10 for children between 6 and 11.
Children under 6 are free, as are Museum Members.
An Acoustiguide audio tour is included in the ticket price.
Members may purchase an audio tour for $3.
Half-Off Admission: Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Fridays from 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.
(not applicable for Member audio tours).
Admission to the Museum’s permanent collection is always free.
There is a charge for special exhibitions.
Half-price exhibition admission is offered on Tuesdays (all day) and on Fridays from 5–8 p.m.
Location: Kimball Art Museum
3333 Camp Bowie Boulevard
Fort Worth, Texas 76107-2792
817-332-8451
Metro: 817-654-1034
Fax: 817-877-1264
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57. MUSEUM OF NATURE AND SCIENCE
Your Incredible Body
Where does sweat come from? Why does the body shiver when it’s cold? Why do we sneeze when we’re allergic to something? Everyday your body is continually under fire from countless factors threatening the delicate internal balance needed to function properly. From the day you are born, your systems are under siege from the environment, so why is it that we aren’t forced to live in a sterile, highly regulated environment? Our bodies engage in a constant cycle of balance – a process called homeostasis. Every organism from a single cell to an entire human being experiences homeostasis. Join MNS on an incredible journey through the human body as you and your family discover a unique internal look at how our bodies work.
Your Incredible Body is a brand new addition to our permanent galleries designed to help lead you and your children through many of the common questions about homeostasis and balance in the body. The 2000 sq. ft. exhibit features 24 interactive kiosks with multimedia games, fun learning stations and engaging explorations. Begin with the immune and digestive systems to discover balance in an entire body system before moving on to a single organ – the skin. Finish this mesmerizing exhibit with a closer look at DNA and homeostasis in a single cell.
Kids will love exploring stations that utilize a variety of fun and engaging learning tools while parents get the opportunity to learn about some topics a little more in depth. There is something for everyone in this fascinating exhibition about balance in the body, ensuring a fun-filled afternoon!
PLANETARIUM SHOWS:
For Planetarium Show Schedule: Click Here
ONLINE Exhibits - Journey to Alaska
Dr. Tony Fiorillo explores Alaska
http://www.natureandscience.org/exhibits/alaska/default.asp
ONSITE Exhibits:
Ancient Microworlds
Applied science collides with the visual arts in the high-tech practice of macrophotography
http://www.natureandscience.org/exhibits/ancient_microworlds.asp
Lagoon Nature Walk
Explore the Leonhardt Lagoon Nature Walk
http://www.natureandscience.org/exhibits/lagoon.asp
Paleontology Lab
See fossils brought back from the field for preparation
http://www.natureandscience.org/exhibits/paleolab.asp
Ice Age Dallas
Fossils from the last Ice Age
http://www.natureandscience.org/exhibits/ice_age_dallas.asp
Ocean Dallas
See ocean creatures that once swam near Dallas
http://www.natureandscience.org/exhibits/ocean_dallas.asp
Texas Dinosaurs
Life and death in the Big Bend examines dinosaurs that once lived in Texas
http://www.natureandscience.org/exhibits/texas_dinos.asp
Wildlife Dioramas
View the Museums four distinct wildlife diorama halls
http://www.natureandscience.org/exhibits/dioramas.asp
Dental Gallery
Come learn about dental health
http://www.natureandscience.org/exhibits/dental.asp
Little Urban Farm
Vividly illustrate to children and families the crucial role that farms play in all our lives
http://www.natureandscience.org/exhibits/farm.asp
NetWorks: The World of Digital Communication
Take a virtual ride through a network
http://www.natureandscience.org/exhibits/networks.asp
Astronomy & Space
Visit the only public planetarium in Dallas County.
http://www.natureandscience.org/exhibits/space.asp
Disaster Zone
Explore natural disasters that from time to time visit us in Texas: tornadoes, ice storms, flash floods, earthquakes, wildfires, lightning, and hail.
http://www.natureandscience.org/exhibits/disaster_zone.asp
Museum Information:
The Museum of Nature & Science consists of several buildings all located in Fair Park, Dallas. The Nature Building is located at 3535 Grand Avenue, the Science Building is located at 1318 South Second Avenue and the Planetarium Building is located at 1620 First Avenue.
Location: 535 Grand Avenue and 1318 S. 2nd Avenue in Fair Park
Phone: 214-428-5555
Email: info@natureandscience.org
Hours and Admission:
All buildings: 10am-5pm Monday-Saturday, Noon-5pm Sunday
(In the event of inclement weather, please call 214-421-3466 ext. 382)
Admission Pricing: w