HEART of Texas

Homeschool with HEART!
January 2010 Newsletter
HEART OF TEXAS   
Home Educators Alliance for Resources and Training of Texas, Inc.

JANUARY 2010 ISSUE
Home School News and Events
 
Dear Home School Families and Friends,
We are excited to share with you 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 use any content from this newsletter for placement within your own newsletter or other communications, please acknowledge the HEART of Texas newsletter as your source and include our website address: www.heartoftex.org.

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.  Advertising space is available for those wishing to advertise their businesses, classes, job listings, or other opportunities.

We also have a “featured articles” section.  We hope that you will find the articles 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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~UPCOMING HEART OF TEXAS EVENTS ~

FEBRUARY 2, 2010
3RD ANNUAL HEART OF TEXAS REGIONAL HOMESCHOOL COLLEGE NIGHT
GRAPEVINE CONVENTION CENTER

Early Registration Deadline:  January 22

Time:        7pm-9pm (speaking sessions start at 6pm)
Location:   Grapevine Convention Center
                1209 South Main Street
                Grapevine, TX 76051

Admission:  Preregistered by January 22, 2010 (postmark date):
                  $15/family -- preregistered by January 22, 2010
                  $10/family -- HEART of Texas members with valid Family ID card

                  After January 22 and at the Door:
                  $10/person (maximum $25 family if more than 2 people attending)

To Register:  http://www.heartoftex.org/college/familyreg/familyreg.php
                  

Special Guest Speaker:  BRETT HARRIS!!!
We are proud to announce our special guest speaker Brett Harris, co-founder with his twin brother Alex Harris of The Rebelution and co-author of Do Hard Things, and student at Patrick Henry College.  We will have more details available on our website very soon!

To see which colleges have RSVPd so far:  Click Here

Stay tuned for more details (including speaking session schedule) on our website:  www.heartoftex.org


To contact us with questions:  Click Here


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~MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS ~


JANUARY
URGENT NEED FOR JUDGES!!
2010 DFW SPEECH/DEBATE REGIONAL QUALIFIER
TO BE HELD IN FORT WORTH JANUARY 28, 29, 30

NO experience necessary!!  
You can volunteer to judge just 1 or 2 events -- you don't have to commit to all 3 days.

Location:  
Birchman Baptist Church
9100 North Normandale Street
Fort Worth, TX  76116
Directions:  Click Here

Over 200+ competitors from Texas, Arkansas & New Mexico will gather for 3 days of amazing competition debating U.S. Environmental Policy and whether Competition or Cooperation is the superior means of achieving excellence; as well as performing hilarious, dramatic and informational speeches.

We are in urgent need of 200+ judges from the community to judge these events. No experience necessary! Please forward this invitation to your members & encourage them to volunteer to judge 1-2 events.

Enjoy a delicious array of foods and desserts while you judge!

To Volunteer:  Click Here


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JANUARY
RESERVE YOUR SEATS FOR
TEXAS BALLET THEATER PERFORMANCE:  ROMEO & JULIET
DURING HEART OF TEXAS DISCOUNT DAYS:
 
FEBRUARY 13 at 2pm (Bass Performance Hall)
MARCH 13 at 2pm (Winspear Opera House)


The Texas Ballet Theater has partnered with HEART of Texas to offer our newsletter readers (that's you!) special ticket pricing on great seats, during select performances.  You can purchase tickets as a group or as a family -- everyone can enjoy these great discounts regardless of  the size of your party.  Tickets are sold on a first-come, first served basis, so please reserve your tickets as soon as possible to ensure the best section seating available during our select performances.

Special Ticket Pricing for HEART of Texas Discount Days:  
Bass Performance Hall:  $30 for Orchestra or Mezzanine

                                  $15 for Upper or Lower Gallery
Winspear Opera House:  $30 for Orchestra or Mezzanine
                                          
$15 for Dress Circle or Grand Tier

To Purchase Tickets:  
www.texasballettheater.org/?q=showschedule
or call 877-828-9200 and give the ticket agent your promo code.


Promo Code:  HEARTDAYS

For a listing of other HEART of Texas discounted performances:  Click Here

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JANUARY 6, 7, 20, 21
HOME SCHOOL WORKSHOPS
LEGO EDUCATION CENTER IN SOUTHLAKE

Time:
11am - 12:30pm
Ages 3-7: LEGO Pattern Making with Simple Machines
Ages 8+: LEGO Mayan Adventure
Time:  11am - 12:30pm
Cost:  $20/child;  (10% Discount for HEART of Texas members with valid Member card)
Details:  Children in the 3-7 age range will enjoy the same activity, but will be organized into two separate groups and rooms based upon their development level. Children aged 3-5 will utilize larger LEGO DUPLO®
bricks while the older 5-7 group will enjoy smaller LEGO system bricks.
Location:  LEGO Education Center
                2315 E. Southlake Blvd, #110, Southlake, TX  76092
                888-728-5346

Discount:  LEGO Education Center is offering HEART of Texas members (with valid HEART of Texas family ID card) a 10% discount on their Home School Workshops!  These hands-on workshops encourage problem-solving and creative thinking skills, are for children ages 3-12, and occur four times a month.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Family Membership: www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html

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JANUARY 8
REGISTRATION DEADLINE FOR
HOMESCHOOL HIGH SCHOOL MATH CLASSES
AT TARRANT COUNTY COLLEGE

MATH CLASSES Offered January 2010:

Southeast Campus (Arlington)

Registration Ends January 8 for these classes:
Algebra I                Mon/Wed: 3-4:30pm   (Jan 12 - March 4)    Synonym Number: 0167924
Algebra II               Mon/Wed/Fri  1-3pm   (Jan 11 - March 5)    Synonym Number: 0167918

Registration Ends January 15 for these classes:
Geometry               Tues/Thurs:  3-4:30     (Jan 19-May 14)      Synonym Number: 0167923
Trigonometry:         Tues/Thurs: 4:30        (Jan 19 - May 13)    

Registration Ends January 19 for this class:
College Algebra I     Fri: 9am-12pm           (Jan 22 - May 14)     Synonym Number: 0167915

Cost:  
$166 (includes book)
$10 fee charge at end of semester if book is damaged.   
Books ordered upon registration for course.

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 972-660-8414 or Click Here to email

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JANUARY 9
WHATCHA GOT COOKIN'?
LOG CABIN VILLAGE IN FORT WORTH

Time: 1:00—4 p.m.
Cost:  Regular Village admission plus $2 craft fee to gather your own recipe cards for a book.
Details:
Join us in welcoming the Prairie Dog Chapter of the Lone Star Dutch Oven Society to the Village as they show us how everything from soup to dessert can be prepared in a cast iron pot!  Get your hands “dirty” as you discover frontier foodways for yourself.  The weather may be cool, but things will be heating up around here!

No Reservation Required

To view other events at Log Cabin Village:  
Click Here


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JANUARY 9
MASS TROPICAL BUTTERFLY RELEASE
INTO ROSINE SMITH SAMMONS BUTTERFLY HOUSE AND INSECTARIUM
AT TEXAS DISCOVERY GARDENS

Time: 10:30am
Cost:  $15/adults; $13/seniors; $11/ages 3-11
Details: Please note: children under five must release a butterfly in tandem with an adult.
Stay for a butterfly house tour at 11 am and 2 pm with Captain Chrysalis!
Recycle your Christmas tree between 10 am and 4 pm and Preservation Tree Services will chip it into mulch for Texas Discovery Gardens!
Location:  3601 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd,  Fair Park, Gate 6


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JANUARY 9
FREE ACTING WORKSHOP
PLANO CHILDREN'S THEATRE

Time:  2-4p.m.
Location:  McKinney Performing Arts Center
111 N. Tennessee, McKinney

No registration or reservation necessary.  Just come ready to learn.

View Newsletter Headers
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JANUARY 11
SCARY ANIMALS HOME SCHOOL CLASS & TOUR
FOSSIL RIM

JANUARY 11 -- "Scary Animals" Homeschool Class + Tour
Time:  10am-2:30ish 
    Break for Lunch:  12:00-1:00
Cost:  $16/person (ages 2 and under free)
Bring a picnic lunch.  After lunch, take a guided tour of Fossil Rim!
To Register:  Call 254-898-4216 

JANUARY 26-- "Go Ahead, Make My Day" Homeschool Class + Tour
Time:  10am-2:30ish 
    Break for Lunch:  12:00-1:00
Cost:  $16/person (ages 2 and under free)
Bring a picnic lunch.  After lunch, take a guided tour of Fossil Rim!
To Register:  Call 254-898-4216 


To view other events at Fossil Rim:  
Click Here


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JANUARY 15
CONTEST DEADLINE
ANIMAL ESSAY CONTEST
FOR ARLINGTON, TX, RESIDENTS

The City of Arlington invites Arlington homeschoolers in 3,4,5, and 6 to participate in their annual Animal Essay Contest!  Students mut be residents of Arlington, Texas.

Details:  Entries may be hand-delivered to:
Water Customer Service Desk at City Hall/first floor, 101 W. Abram St. (8 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon-Fri)
or the Animal Services Center, 1000 S.E. Green Oaks Blvd. (10 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon-Fri).
No hand-delivered entries accepted after 5:00 p.m. Friday, January 15, 2010.

Teachers may mail or hand-deliver all entries from their class, grade or school.

Judging Criteria:  Essays will be judged on the elements of effective writing:
Focus and Coherence, Organization, Development of Ideas, Voice and Conventions.
The decision of the Essay Judges Committee is final. The panel of essay judges will include, but is
not limited to, local citizens and members of the Arlington Animal Services Center Advisory Board.

 
Essay topics by grade level are:
Grade 3: If animals could talk, what would they say?
Grade 4: What feelings do you think animals have?
Grade 5: What are some ways that can make life better for animals in your community?
Grade 6: How do animals benefit us in our daily lives?

Prizes:  Top contest winners from each grade will be awarded a Series EE U.S. Savings Bond.
First Place—$500 bond  •  Second Place—$350 bond   • Third Place—$150 bond
Winners will be asked to submit their essay in typed format so it can be published on the City of Arlington website.

For More Information:  Click Here or call 817-459-6269
To view winning essays from last year:  Click Here
 
View Newsletter Headers

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JANUARY 15
HOMESCHOOL DAY
HERITAGE FARMSTEAD MUSEUM IN PLANO

Time:  1p.m. - 3:00p.m
Location:  Homestead Farmstead Museum in Plano
Cost:  $5/person (registration postmarked before January 6)
          $7/person (postmarked after January 6)

Details:  Experience life on the North Texas Blackland Prairie at the turn of the century

    •    A lesson about school life at the turn-of-the-century-held in a one room schoolhouse
    •    A tour of the historic Farrell-Wilson house
    •    Explore four beautiful acres and 12 outbuildings and livestock
    •    Blacksmithing Demonstrations
    •    Make a Victorian Craft
    •    And so much more to learn about!

To Register:  
Click Here to download HFM Registration Form

This event will be held rain or shine, no refunds will bre given after the registration deadline.


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JANUARY 16
PETER MARSHALL CONFERENCE
"AMERICA'S CHRISTIAN HERITAGE"
COMING TO NORTH DALLAS

Time: 9am - Noon (Doors open at 8am)
Cost:  FREE, but must register since seating is limited

Location:  
Faith Fellowship Church
               415 W. Lucas Road in Lucas, TX
Directions:
Take 75 (North Central Expressway) to Bethany Road exit in Allen.  Go east on Bethany Road
for about 4 miles.  The church will be located on the right side of the road (south side).  Please note that Bethany Road changes its name to Lucas Road after 3 miles.  

To Register Online:  Click Here 
To Register By Phone:  972-736-3567

Details: Peter Marshall is co-author of The Light and the Glory, 1492-1793;  Sea to Shining Sea, 1787-1837;
and Sounding Forth the Trumpet, 1837-1860.  Our Christian heritage is under savage attack.  Our young people need to be informed of our great heritage, the nature of the present attack, and the ways in which we can counter the assault on the values that ade this nation great.


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JANUARY 16-17
PRIMITIVE SKILLS SURVIVAL CLASS 1
CAMP TONKAWA

Time: 9:30am on the 16th through 2:30 p.m. on the 17th
Cost:  $75/Ages 17 and up;  $60/Ages 12-15;  $50/Ages 8-11
(group and family rates available) 
What to Bring:  Lunches.  If spending night, bring tent, sleeping bag, plate, bowl, cup, and utensils.  Camp chairs and flashlights are nice to have, but not a necessity.  If you require vegetarian fare, let us know.
Details: Click Here

R.S.V.P:  903-429-6483
Location:  1036 CR 203,
                Collinsville TX 76233

For Info on Other Events at Camp Tonkawa:  Click Here

Discount:  Camp Tonkawa is offering a 10% discount for HEART of Texas members with a valid family ID card.  Offer not valid in conjunction with semester discount rates for Nature Awareness Camps
To Learn About HEART of Texas Family Membership: www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html

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JANUARY 22
EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE
HEART OF TEXAS REGIONAL HOME SCHOOL COLLEGE NIGHT
GRAPEVINE, TEXAS

College Night will be held Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Location:  Grapevine Convention Center
Time:  7-9pm (speaking sessions begin at 6pm)
We are still finalizing the speaking schedule, so please check our website for details.


We are pleased to announce our special guest speaker BRETT HARRIS!!
Brett Harris, son of homeschool pioneers Gregg & Sono Harris, is co-founder with his twin brother Alex Harris of The Rebelution and co-author of Do Hard Things, as well as a student at Patrick Henry College.  

We will have more details available on our website very soon:  www.heartoftex.org 


Admission:  Preregistered by January 22, 2010 (postmark date):
                  $15/family -- preregistered by January 22, 2010
                  $10/family -- HEART of Texas members with valid Family ID card

                  After January 22 and at the Door:
                  $10/person (maximum $25 family if more than 2 people attending)

To Register:  http://www.heartoftex.org/college/familyreg/familyreg.php
                  


View Newsletter Headers
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JANUARY 22-30
COTTAGE THEATRE PRESENTS:
SLEEPING BEAUTY OF LORELAND

Tickets: $10/adults; $8/students.
Small children who sit in laps are no charge. No baby carriers or strollers, etc.

To Purchase Tickets:  817-281-2293.  Sorry, no refunds.


Show Times: 
January 22, 23, 25, 28, 29 @ 7:30pm
                        January 24 @ 2:30pm


Location:  
5733 Watauga Rd
Watauga, TX 76148


View Newsletter Headers

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JANUARY 29
EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE FOR
SALLY CLARKSON'S MOM HEART CONFERENCE
IRVING, TEXAS

Conference Date:  February 26-27

Location:
Dallas Marriott Las Colinas
223 West Las Colinas Blvd
Irving, TX   75039

Cost:  $89 if registered by January 29
         $99 if registered after January 29

Special Gift Exclusively for HEART of Texas Members:
HEART of Texas Members with valid family ID can receive a free gift book (one per family).  You must show
your Member ID at the conference to receive your book.  Mention that you are a HEART of Texas
member when you register so they will know how many books to bring to the conference.
To learn more about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here

To Register Online: Click Here
To Register By Phone:  888-488-4466


When the cultural ground is shifting, there's no better time to renew your heart for a new start with God. Sally will strenthen and encourage your heart to rise to the task of raising wholehearted children for Christ at home. Elizabeth Smith and Sarah Clarkson will share heart-renewing messages, and a special Panel will discuss the Mom Heart Ministry vision.

Conference Registration Includes:  Practical workshops, inspirational worship, a seated banquet luncheon, book tables, and more.

To Read More About the Conference: Click Here


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~~What's Inside This Issue ~~
     (Click on the links below)

FEATURED ARTICLES

Letter to Texas Homeschoolers - by Tim Lambert, THSC

Announcing Our Newest Partner:  LEGO Education Center in Southlake!

Registration Open for 3rd Annual HEART of Texas Regional Home School College Night -- by Anne Gebhart

Texas Ballet Theater Offering HEART of Texas Newsletter Readers Discount Tickets for Select Performances
at Bass Hall and Winspear Opera House

Training Young Christians in the Arts - by Sharon Jeffus
, Visual Manna

Area Editors Needed for HEART of Texas Newsletter

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 2009 Preview:  Just Plane Crazy! -- Texas Best
5.   FIRST Lego League -- 2009 Registration Deadline Passed
6.   Texas State Fish-Art Contests -- Entries Due March 31, 2010
7.   National Engineers Week -- Registration Deadline Passed for 2009 Contest
8.   USA Mathematical Talent Search -- Round 3 Solutions Deadline January 11, 2010
9.   Igniting Creative Energy Challenge for K-12 -- Entry Deadline February 19, 2010
10. Texas Beef Leaders of Tomorrow Contest -- 2010 Contest TBA
    
CIVICS/GOOD CITIZENSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
11.  City of Fort Worth Youth Advisory Board -- Fort Worth
12.  City of North Richland Hills Teen Court -- North Richland Hills
13.  Texas Home School Coalition Good Citizenship Award Program -- State-wide

CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE ANNOUNCEMENTS
14.  Certificates of Special Congressional Recognition for Graduating Seniors
15.  National Congressional Art Competition -- Districts 3, 4, 5, 12, 24, 26, 30

HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
Become a HEART of Texas Partner to list your Enrichment Program or Homeschool Classes

16.  THEO Home School Classes -- Plano
17.  Christian Cottage Prep -- Fort Worth
18.  Christian Educators Resource Center -- Rowlett
19.  Christian Homeschool Alliance of Texas -- Cedar Hill/SW Dallas area
20.   Cooke County Cotillion for Home Schooled Teens -- Gainesville
21.  Center for Home Education -- Watauga
22.  Eastfield College -- Mesquite
23.  Enrichment Classes, Inc. -- Lewisville
24.  Faith Christian Academy -- McKinney
25.  Home Educators Resource -- Lewisville
26.  Homeschoolers East Co-Op Classes -- East Dallas
27.  JOY Christian Academy -- Decatur

28.  Morning Glory Academy -- Hurst
29.  Tarrant County College -- High School Math Classes for Home Schoolers
30.  Venture Home School Classes -- Colleyville
31.  YMCA/Irving Home School Classes -- Irving

BOOK SALES & OUR PARTNERING HOME SCHOOL BOOK STORES
32.  Library Used Book Sales in North Texas
          Wichita Falls – January 2
          Denton – January 9
          Grand Prairie – January 23
          Lancaster – February 4-6
          Lewisville – February 6-7
          Wichita Falls – February 6
          Cedar Park – February 20-22
          Carrollton – February 25-28
33.  Christian Educators Resource Center -- Rowlett
34.  Center for Home Education -- Watauga
35.  Home Educators Resource -- Lewisville
  
NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
Become a HEART of Texas Partner to list your program
36.  Camp Tonkawa (Day Camps and Outdoor Education) -- Collinsville
37.  Dallas Arboretum -- Dallas
38.  Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge Programs
39.  Fossil Rim
40.  Haven's Horses (Horsemanship & Outdoor Education)-- Keller
41.  Heard Museum Homeschool Classes – McKinney
42.  Heritage Farmstead Museum -- Plano
43.  Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch -- Pilot Point
44.  Texas Discovery Gardens -- Dallas
45.  Texas Parks and Wildlife Programs -- State Parks in North Texas

PERFORMING ARTS
46.  Performances at Casa Manana Children’s Playhouse --Fort Worth
         Alamo (The Musical) -- February 19-March 7

47.  Performances at CATS -- Arlington
       
Yankee Doodle Dandies -- January 29-February 6
48.  Cottage Theater –  -- Watauga
        
Sleeping Beauty of Loreland -- January 22-30
49.  Theater Performances at Artisan Center Theater -- Hurst
        Swing! -- January 1-30
        Artie's Children's Playhouse: Tut Tut, King Tut -- January 2-30

50.  Performances at Bass Performance Hall -- Fort Worth
        Fiddler on the Roof (Topol Farewell Tour) -- March 9-14
51.  Dallas Children’s Theater -- Dallas
      
How I Became a Pirate -- January 22-February 21
52.  Dallas Symphony Orchestra -- Dallas
        Musical Families – February 2, 4
        Bach to the Future – March 26, 31, April 1, 13
53.   Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra -- Fort Worth
        The Composer is Dead – January 13, 14
        Green Eggs and Ham – March 25
54.  Plano Children’s Theater -- Plano
        Beauty & the Beast -- December 3-5
55.  Texas Ballet Theater Performances -- Special Homeschool Pricing -- Dallas/Ft. Worth
        HEART of Texas Newsletter Readers Receive Special Discount on the Following Performances:
        Romeo & Juliet (Bass Hall) – February 13 at 2pm
        Romeo & Juliet (Winspear Opera House) – March 13 at 2pm
        The Sleeping Beauty (Bass Hall) – April 10 at 2pm
        The Sleeping Beauty (Winspear Opera House) – June 12 at 2pm

56.  Home School Discount Tickets to Dallas Theater Performances
        A Year with Frog and Toad -- January 12-13
      
ART MUSEUMS
57.  Amon Carter Museum Exhibits – Fort Worth
          Masterworks of American Photography: Moments in Time -- closes Jan 3, 2010

        Views & Visions: Prints of the American West, 1820-1970 -- closes Jan. 10, 2010
        Freedom Now: Tamarind Lithography Workshop
        Edward S. Curtis: The North American Indian -- opens December 12

58.  Dallas Museum of Art Exhibits -- Dallas
        First Tuesday (free admission) -- January 5 (Theme: Our Community)
        Family Film:  January 2-31 -- I Can Fly, Part II: Kids, Painting & Art Apprciation
        The Artistic Furniture of Charles Rohlfs -- Through January 3, 2010
        A Dream Come True: The Dallas Arts District -- Through January 31, 2010
        All the World's a Stage -- Through February 28, 2010
        Performance/Art -- Through March 21, 2010
        Materials & Meanings -- Through May 16, 2010
        Jacob Lawrence: The Life of Toussaint L'Ouverture -- Through May 23, 2010
59.  Kimbell Art Museum Exhibit -- Fort Worth
        Children's Workshop (ages 6-14) -- January 9 -- Dot, Dash, Swirl, Splash
        Pictures & Pages (ages 4-6) -- January 5 -- What Would You Do with a Tail Like This?

        From the Private Collections of Texas - European Art from Ancient to Modern -- Through March 21
        Michelangelo's First Painting: The Torment of St. Anthony
60.  Museum of Nature & Science -- Dallas
         
Children's Hand-in-Hand Workshop: "Snow Days, Fun Days" -- January 13
        Children's Hand-in-Hand Workshop: "Warm and Fuzzy" -- January 20  
        Children's Hand-in-Hand Workshop: "Suit Yourself" -- January 27                    
          The Science of Spying:  The new Spy Skills exhibition -- closes January 4, 2010
        Putting DNA to Work
61.  Museum of Science & History -- Fort Worth
       
CSI: The Experience
62.  Nasher Sculpture Center -- Dallas
        Family Film Night: It's a Wonderful Life --Dec 3
        The Art of Architecture: Foster & Partners
        

IMAX/OMNI THEATERS
63.  Shows at the Dallas Imax Theatre -- Museum of Science and Nature
        Dinosaurs of Patagonia
64.  Shows at the Fort Worth Omni Theater -- Ft. Worth Museum of Science & History
      
 The Alps -- Through February 2010
        Animalopolis -- Opens November 20
        Disney's A Christmas Carol (Rated PG) -- Through January 18
        Ride Around the World -- January 15 - February 7, 2010
        Forces of Nature -- Opens January 19, 2010
        Sharks -- Opens February 27
       
HISTORICAL PROGRAMS
65.  Programs at Log Cabin Village -- Fort Worth
66.  Dallas Heritage Village -- Dallas

SCIENCE EVENTS/ACTIVITIES
67.  Star Parties at Fort Worth Museum of Science and History -- Resume in 2010

HOME SCHOOL SPORTS/PE PROGRAMS
Become a HEART of Texas Supporting Partner to list your non-profit Sport/PE program
68.  Aledo Christian School's Basketball, Baseball, Volleyball, Softball Teams -- Aledo
69.  Berne Academy's Varsity Boys Basketball Team -- Lancaster

70.  Homeschool Swim -- The Colony Aquatic Park -- The Colony
71.  Homeschool Swim & Swim Team -- Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium-- Allen
72.  Christian Martial Arts -- Bedford
73.  Dallas Thunder Homeschool Basketball Organization -- Registration Open
74.  Elite Track Club/Cross Country Program for Home Schoolers  
75.  Home School Athletic Association
76.  THESA Riders Home School  Association
77.  Hulcy Home School PE Classes -- Richardson
78.  Home School PE Classes -- Velocity in Highland Park
79.  Home School PE Classes -- Velocity in Southlake
80.  Home School Fencing Classes -- Fencing Institute of Texas -- Farmers Branch
81.  Parker-Tarrant Home School 
82.  Pop-In Playtime -- Pump It Up of Grapevine -- Grapevine

SUPPORT GROUP ANNOUNCEMENTS
Become a HEART of Texas Support Group Partner to list your Support Group here & on our site!
83.  Smoothing the Way Meetings in North Texas
84.  Arlington Association Home Educators (AAHE) -- Arlington
85.  Coppell Speech/Debate Club -- Coppell
86.  Denton County Christian Home School Association -- Denton
87.  Fellowship Church Homeschool Network -- Grapevine
88.  How Now Homeschooling -- Plano/Frisco/Allen/McKinney area

89.  Lewisville Area Speech and Debate Club -- Lewisville
90.  Matthew Road Home School Group -- Grand Prairie
91.  North Irving Christian Home Educators -- Irving
92.  Park Day Drama Club -- Plano
93.  Ready to Answer Speech and Debate -- Decatur
94.  SALT Co-Op -- DeSoto
95.  Homeschoolers Offering Moms Encouragement (HOME) -- Flower Mound

COLLEGE PREP
96.  SAT Test Dates
97.  SAT Prep Classes with Jean Burk -- Across North Texas   

COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS FOR HOMESCHOOLERS
98.  Baylor and Air Force ROTC (AFROTC) Scholarship -- Deadline December 1, 2009

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
All volunteer opportunities must indicate a direct homeschool interest to be included in this listing.
99.  Volunteer Opportunities Available for Home School Students in 21 Counties -- American Cancer Society
100.  Learn to Laugh in Another Language: Be a Host Family for a Foreign-Exchange Student -- INTO EdVENTURES
101.  Homeschool Volunteers Needed to Deliver Meals; Friendship -- Meals On Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County
102.  Homeschool Volunteers Needed to Deliver Meals -- Meals on Wheels of Johnson & Ellis Counties
103.  Volunteers Needed to Serve Meals at The Stewpot -- Dallas -- The Stewpot

OTHER EVENTS BY DATE
104. Home School Day at Heritage Farmstead Museum -- Plano -- January 15
105. Sally Clarkson's Mom Heart Conference -- Irving -- February 26-27
106. TeenPact State Capitol Classes in April 2010 -- April 2009

JOB OPENINGS
107.  Check-In Receptionist, Check-Out Receptionist, and Technician Positions Open -- DeSoto Area
108.  Great Opportunities for Home School Students at Pump It Up of Grapevine


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FEATURED ARTICLE

Letter to Texas Homeschoolers
--by Tim Lambert

According to The Patriot’s Handbook by George Grant, Ph.D., Alexis de Tocqueville is credited with the phrase, “America is great because she is good and if America ever ceases to be good, America will cease to be great.” 

As the biblical and moral values that formed the foundation of our government come under attack, so do our freedoms.  The political environment in our nation has begun to shift toward a large Federal government and there is now an aggressive push for government control on many levels, including education. At the federal level, President Obama is listing education as one of his top priorities, even though education is constitutionally, and has historically been, under the purview of the states.

This struggle to control the minds and hearts of our children can also be seen on a state level as well, as we observe the increase in arguments for more government regulation and control; although hotly opposed in conservative circles, many individuals still believe in the need to push for more governmental control.  In recent years we have seen attempts in state after state to roll back the freedom of parents to teach their children at home. States like Michigan and Oklahoma, which have been with Texas among the states with the fewest restrictions, have seen strong efforts in their legislatures to limit this freedom.  

This push for more government control is actually a worldview issue and can be seen as such in custody cases in which judges make decisions regarding what is "in the best interest of the child.” In March this was apparent in a case in North Carolina, in which a judge ruled that a home school child had to be placed in a public school because of his concerns about the religious beliefs of the mother. In addition, recently in New Hampshire a judge ruled that a child being homeschooled (who all agreed was doing very well academically and socially) should be placed in public school. According to a counselor, the child lacked some "youthful characteristics," and she "reflected her mother's rigidity on questions of faith." The court-appointed guardian ad litem in this case concluded that the child's "interests, and particularly, her intellectual and emotional development, would ... be best served by exposure to different points of view at a time in her life when she must begin to critically evaluate multiple systems of belief and behavior." The judge consequently ruled that the child would be required to attend a public school.

Last spring I responded to inquiries from Texas state legislators regarding a proposal to regulate private schools. I spoke with a staffer of the chairman of the Senate Higher Education Committee regarding a request to limit the requirement that state colleges and universities treat non-accredited private school graduates—which includes home school graduates—the same as public high school graduates for college admission. I was also asked by Senator Judith Zaffirini’s staff for input regarding a concern of Dr. Shirley Reed, president of South Texas College, that some public high schools have been referring senior students unable to pass the TAKS test to private schools as part of the dropout recovery program.  

I expressed to each of these contacts that there is no reason to regulate private schools in Texas or to require additional standards for college admission. However, yet another threat has arisen as a result of diploma mills that continue to sell diplomas for a fee and call themselves private or home schools. During a recent trip to Austin, I heard rumors that some lawmakers, trying to deal with this problem, intend to file legislation to regulate private schools in the next session, which would in all likelihood impact home schoolers, should such a bill become law. 

In an effort to clarify the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) position and procedure regarding their waiver policy for prospective adoptive parents who wish to homeschool, I have, with the help of the Governor, developed a relationship with DFPS Commissioner Anne Heiligenstein. I spoke to her earlier in the year regarding the waiver policy and then followed-up with a letter. In response to my correspondence, Commissioner Heiligenstein assured us that prospective foster parents and adoptive parents are given information on the DFPS policy on home schooling as an educational option. I then wrote to the commissioner and asked for a copy of the materials that are provided to these parents. In November, I followed up this request with a personal meeting to discuss ways to clarify this policy and make sure it is implemented in the DFPS offices across the state.  The Commissioner agreed to provide our office with copies of these policies, and she also acknowledged that the policy regarding the irrelevancy of home schooling to an investigation of abuse/neglect per the memo from 2005 is in the CPS manual for the employees of the agency.  

Commissioner Heiligenstein was also recently copied on a letter to a CPS Investigator in Henderson County.  This investigator contacted our office to verify the home school status of two children who belonged to a family under CPS investigation, despite the DFPS policy (PSA 05-055) that states, “Whether parents choose to homeschool their child or send their child to another private or public school is not relevant to a CPS (Child Protective Services) investigation.”  I pointed out that this request was in violation of DFPS policy and concluded, “should you continue to pursue these actions, we will take all necessary actions.” I mentioned this situation to the Commissioner during our visit, and she asked that we continue to bring these issues to her attention as they arise so that she may address them within the agency.

I have also begun to develop a relationship with Chief Michael Kelley, the new head of the Driver License Division of DPS. I wrote to Chief Kelley concerning comments made by DPS spokesmen regarding the implementation of HB 339, and he responded with a phone call expressing his desire to make sure this bill is implemented correctly. He also assured me he would be willing to send us a written response that clarifies this position. I then followed up with a personal meeting in which the Chief shared plans to implement this policy.  The DPS is currently rewriting their policy manual and along with the procedure for the implementation of HB 339, DPS will also include the memorandum sent to THSC and all DPS offices verifying that the VOE form is proof of school enrollment.  They have also established a contact for parents with questions or problems pertaining to parent taught driver education.  

While in Austin recently, I met with the Texas Commissioner of Education. The Commissioner plans to issue an updated memorandum regarding the withdrawal and enrollment of home school students.  He also agreed to include language that makes it clear that public schools must allow home school students within their district to take the SAT and PSAT.   

Our work with these state officials allows us to have an impact, and it is our hope that these connections will enable us to deflect attempts on a state level to allow government intrusion into our homes. We are particularly concerned about CPS, since this agency has been under attack because of recent deaths of children in Texas. We expect to see another increase in the effort to allow CPS more oversight and control of families as a result of these deaths, even though all of the families involved in these deaths were already under CPS investigation. 

While I continue to build relationships at the state level that help support our positions, I have felt the need to respond to individuals as well. Many people who express concerns about “unqualified parents” contact the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to ask about the state requirements for home schoolers. TEA refers those calls to us.  As I mentioned earlier this year, I spoke with a pastor who was concerned about his church allowing a home school group to use their facility for co-op classes and wanted to know if he or the church could be held liable for the education or lack thereof of these students. Recently I responded to a letter from a woman in Amarillo who wrote to express her strong disagreement with our publicly stated support of the Leeper vs. Arlington ISD decision that the Texas Supreme Court affirmed in 1994. As you may know, this case brought by Texas home schoolers against the state was a move to force the state to stop prosecuting home educators simply for teaching their children at home. The Supreme Court decision was a huge victory for freedom and was celebrated by home schoolers all over the United States. This woman expressed the opinion of some who believe that parents cannot be trusted to do what is in the best interest of their children and, therefore, the government should set requirements for parents who wish to homeschool and performance standards for home school students to "ensure" that they are receiving a “sufficient” education. Her basic presupposition—and that of many others, including many in federal and state government—is that government control and regulation will somehow ensure that every child receives an adequate education. Of course, this supposition is demonstrably false, based on the results of the public school system, which is the most highly-regulated system in the country. Their clamor for regulation of home schooling for the benefit of the children would not accomplish that stated goal but would simply lead to a lack of freedom for parents.

We recently wrote to the Attorney General’s office in Corpus Christi to verify the status of a student belonging to a member family.  Because home schools have been determined by the courts of Texas to be private schools and because, pursuant to Texas Family Code §154.002, child support may continue through high school graduation if the child is a full-time student pursuing a high school diploma in a private school, home school students are entitled to child support while they complete their education.  And when the Housing Authority in Plano also needed verification of a home schooled student’s status as a full-time student, we again responded.  I cited the state statue that affirms home schools as private schools and assured the Housing Authority representative that the member family was in full compliance with state laws.

What’s on THSC’s agenda for upcoming months? Besides continuing to fight these types of battles as they arise, we have a busy schedule for the next year. In December we have another of our Continuing Legal Education Seminars planned, this time in El Paso. We sponsor these seminars around the state to train lawyers to defend families against CPS and educate them about the legalities of home education. We cover all the expenses of hosting these seminars, offering them for free to lawyers who will commit to taking on one such case pro bono. This has a two-fold effect: we now have a list of lawyers who are better prepared to deal aggressively with CPS cases, and we have lawyers around the state upon whom we can call to defend home schoolers in these cases.

While preparing for THSC’s several events in 2010, next spring we will actively encourage Texas home educators to include in their required study of good citizenship the practical element of participating in the campaign process and helping elect pro-parental rights, pro-home-education candidates. Unfortunately, our nation is experiencing firsthand a wake-up call concerning the importance of elections. At the state level, our lobbying efforts in 2011 will be much more productive if there is a majority of home-school-friendly lawmakers in the Texas legislature!

We have recently become aware of a new threat to parental rights and home schooling—Judges.  We are hearing from parents who have had Texas judges abuse their authority and run roughshod over these parents who are seeking to do what they believe to be in the best interests of their children. In 2008, THSC PAC publicly and aggressively supported a challenger to one such judge who was defeated in dramatic fashion in the Republican Primary. Not only was this abusive judge replaced with a fair and impartial judge, other judges in that county were put on notice that such practices would be met with public opposition in future elections. In 2010, THSC PAC plans to support challengers to other abusive Texas judges and work to elect judges who will be fair and impartial in applying the law and not allow the abuse of parental rights. THSC PAC will also send questionnaires to candidates across the state to ascertain their positions and will endorse those who stand with us on our issues.

Although the goodness of America may be questionable in a country whose people can no longer agree on the definition of marriage, in which infanticide is practiced daily in the form of abortion, and where parental rights are under attack, I have not lost hope in her people.  All across this nation and throughout our great state of Texas, families are striving to raise a generation of good, godly, men and women.  They are rebuilding the foundation which this country was built by educating their children in the moral and godly heritage of their country.  They cherish their freedoms and are rising to the call to defend those freedoms, and we are proud to be part of that movement.  

It is your prayers and financial support that allow us to continue to stand in the gap and defend parental rights while serving the Texas home school community.  It is our desire to serve the home school community in the best way possible and in this day and time; that means we need up-to-date tools. Our IT people have told us that we must replace both our 10-year-old server and our even older phone system. One third of our annual income generally comes from end of the year contributions, and we value your year-end support.  At this critical time in our nation and our state, would you prayerfully consider the most generous contribution you can give to help us continue this vital work? We are most grateful for whatever you can do. 

God bless you and your family in the New Year!
 

Tim Lambert is president of the Texas Home School Coalition, our state advocacy organization whose purpose is to help protect home school freedoms.  Click to subscribe to his blog "Right in Texas."  For more information about THSC, please visit their website at www.thsc.org.  


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FEATURED ARTICLE

Become a HEART of Texas Member and Save on LEGO Home School Worshops

HEART of Texas is pleased to announce our newest partnership:   
LEGO® Education Center in Southlake, TX!

The LEGO® Education Center is proud to offer HEART of Texas Members, with a valid Family I.D. card,  a 10% discount on all Home School Workshops!  Their hands-on workshops encourage problem-solving and creative thinking skills, are designed for children ages 3-12, and are offered four times a month!

To learn more about how your family can become a HEART of Texas Member and take advantage of our exciting discounts:  Click Here and download the Family Subscriber form.  Your family membership (just $25/year) not only helps to support our efforts to service the homeschooling community of North Texas, but also provides you with great savings from our ever-growing list of partners!

To view our other partnership offers:  Click Here

Upcoming Classes at LEGO Education Center:
JANUARY 6, 7, 20, 21
Age 3-7:  LEGO Pattern Making with Simple Machines
Ages 8+: LEGO Mayan Adventure

Time:  11am - 12:30pm
Cost:  $20/child;  
           $18/child (HEART of Texas members with current ID)
Location:  LEGO Education Center
                2315 E. Southlake Blvd, #110, Southlake, TX  76092


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FEATURED ARTICLE

Registration Open for 3rd Annual HEART of Texas Regional Home School College Night!!
--by Anne Gebhart

Registration is now open for the HEART of Texas Regional Homeschool College Night, which will be held Tuesday, February, 2, 2010, 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, including Patrick Henry College, Hillsdale College, and Ouachita Baptist!  Most of the service academies have also indicated that they are going to attend, along with several congressional offices!  The congressional offices attend to help answer questions about the service academies and how to receive a recommendation from your congressman.  However, whether you are interested in attending a service academy or not, this is a great opportunity to make a connection with your congressional office and find out more about what they do.

As always, there will be informative speaking sessions, but we are extremely excited to be able to announce our special surprise: our special guest speaker BRETT HARRIS!

We should be able to finalize all the speaking sessions and other details (including Brett Harris' sessions) within the next few weeks.


Admission:
re-registrations received by January 22, 2010 (postmark date)
$15 per family – for pre-registrations received by January 22, 2010 (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 (maximum $25/family if more than 2 people attending)

To Register Online:
Fill out the online form located at http://www.heartoftex.org/college/familyreg/familyreg.php
Then, mail a check made payable to:
HEART of Texas
P.O. Box 211882
Bedford, TX  76095-1882

To Register By Mail:
Fill out online form located at
http://www.heartoftex.org/college/familyreg/familyreg.php
Print out and mail with
payment (made payable to HEART of Texas) and registration form to:
HEART of Texas
P.O. Box 211882
Bedford, TX  76095-1882

You will receive a confirmation notice by email once we receive your payment.  
If you do not receive a confirmation notice in a timely fashion, please contact us to make sure we received it:  info@heartoftex.org.


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 Offers HEART of Texas Newsletter Readers Discount Tickets for Select Performances at Bass Performance Hall and Winspear Opera House

The Texas Ballet Theater is once again partnering with HEART of Texas to offer our newsletter readers (that's you!) special ticket pricing on great seats, during select performances.  The dates and times of these select performances are listed below.  You can purchase tickets as a group or as a family -- everyone can enjoy these great discounts regardless of  the size of your party.  

Tickets are sold on a first-come, first served basis, so please reserve your tickets as soon as possible to ensure the best section seating available during our select performances.

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.


2009-2010 SEASON:

FEBRUARY 12-14 -- Romeo & Juliet (Bass Performance Hall in Ft. Worth)
HEART of Texas Discount Day:  FEBRUARY 13 at 2pm
                                                         

MARCH 12-14 -- Romeo & Juliet (Winspear Opera House in Dallas)
HEART of Texas Discount Day:  MARCH 13 at 2pm


APRIL 9-11 -- The Sleeping Beauty (Bass Performance Hall in Ft. Worth)
HEART of Texas Discount Day:   APRIL 10  at 2pm

JUNE 11-13 -- The Sleeping Beauty (Winspear Opera House in Dallas)
HEART of Texas Discount Day:   JUNE 12  at 2pm



Special Ticket Prices for HEART of Texas Discount Days:
Bass Performance Hall:  $30 for Orchestra or Mezzanine
                                     $15 for Upper or Lower Gallery

Winspear Opera House:  $30 for Orchestra or Mezzanine
                                     $15 for Dress Circle or Grand Tier


To Purchase Tickets:
 
www.texasballettheater.org/?q=showschedule
Promo Code:  HEARTDAYS

Can't attend one of these performances?  

Texas Ballet Theater still has a great deal for you!
All other performance dates will be discounted 20%.

Promo Code:  HEART20

To order by phone:  
877-828-9200.  Give the ticket agent your promo code.



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FEATURED ARTICLE

Training Young Christians in the Arts - the Young Lions
--by Sharon Jeffus


One thing that is paramount in America today is the media’s power of speaking through visual images.  It is tried and very true that throughout acour history, visual images have had a profound impact on American history.  From the time of our first flag of a rattlesnake which can be traced back to Benjamin Franklin, when in 1751, he made the first reference to the rattlesnake in his Pennsylvania Gazette.   Franklin suggested we send rattlesnakes to thank the British in the same way that they sent their prisoners here.  He made his own flag with the phrase “Join or Die” on it.  He used a visual image to really make an impact.
 
Christians in America usually do not spend money or time getting their children involved in the arts.  The perceived importance of the core subjects as the main focus, leave our young people sadly lacking in the areas of visual communication.  The secular media is well aware of the importance of this. This is why “The Young Lions” have been created.  There are young people who have the God given gift of being a creative genius in the field of art and communication.  A very wise doctor once said that creativity when not used in a positive way can be used in a very negative way.  Sometimes these creative children do not seem very promising and many times they have parents who are not gifted in a similar manner and do not understand. I love the quote by Buckminster Fuller, “There is nothing in a caterpillar that tells you it's going to be a butterfly.”

Jean Piaget says:  “The principle goal of education is to create men who are capable of doing new things, not simply of repeating what other generations have done - men who are creative, inventive and discoverers”
 
Art is a catalyst for engineering and other disciplines where leadership and original thinking is important.  Young people not only need the training in just the techniques of different media, but how to communicate ideas through their work and market it as well.

The Young Lions art program has the goal of training young people to create brochures, logos, posters, T-Shirts and other work to put in a portfolio to utilize in the professional world.  Their work can be used in churches, ministries and missions, not to mention all the Christian businesses who could use a price break when it comes to advertising.  Our goal is that these students will learn all the subtle ways to communicate positive ideas.

 
Considering just the topic of creation versus evolution, the point of view of the artist can have a profound effect on the way in which they illustrate a visual image.  The jaw of a Cro-Magnon man from the point of a creationist will produce a drawing of a creature that looks like Homo Sapiens,  but from the perspective of an evolutionist the same creature will look like an ape.  The magician is the artist who brings the jaw to life visually.  The artist on the left below leads you to believe that early man was not a monkey, the artist on the right visually convinces you that early man was an ape.  Art is a very powerful tool.  “Seeing is believing” is very true.

R
osie was a symbol of power to women.  Women had to join the war effort in World War II and this image was seen everywhere.
 
Today pictures are used to convey simple messages to people unable to speak or read English.  In a doctor’s office, you could see a picture of a person pointing to their throat in dismay.  Pictures of other physical symptoms are on a chart, and the patient simply points to the problem so the doctor is aware of what is wrong.  As an ESL teacher, I am quite aware of the importance of visual teaching.  Many of us are not aware that our children and even ourselves are being taught visually daily by a very subtle media.  They are lulling us into a tragic state of satisfaction.  They allow us to accept images that degrade and depress us.  Instead of focusing on positive life giving visual images for children, children who are raised on having a mother and father media parent, are not sensitive to such things as beauty, kindness, good manners, and what makes and has made  America great.  From bombarding children with violent images; to images of people behaving rudely to each other; to using profanity, television today runs the gamut of the negative.  Frank Lloyd Wright said “Television is chewing gum for the eyes.”  Chewing gum is not very nutritious.  There are thousands of children living on “chewing gum.”   The Young Lions (lions because they are bold with their vision) will counteract this alarming downward spiral of our civilization.  

How can I be a part of this?

You can encourage a potential "young" lion to contact visualmanna@gmail.com or call at 1-816-318-1907 to get involved.  You can donate a scholarship for a potential "young" lion.  You can open your church/business to display their art work.
You can commission a piece of artwork from them.  Sharon Jeffus also offers these classes on the internet....go to visualmanna.com for more information.  Ask for a free project newsletter.


Sharon Jeffus is an internationally known writer and teacher, as well as founder of the internationally-known company Visual Manna, a popular art curriculum which integrates art appreciation, techniques, vocabulary and core subjects. She holds a B.S.S.E. in Art Education from John Brown University and earned her teaching certification in English from the University of Arkansas.  She studied painting at Metropolitan in Denver and sculpting at Southern Illinois University. Sharon and her late husband, Richard, started Visual Manna to encourage young Christians in the arts and meet the needs of visual and kinethestic leaners.   They taught art to thousands of homeschoolers across America. Sharon's materials are recommended by Montessori.

Discount:  Visual Manna is in partnership with HEART of Texas, offering our member families with current ID a 20% discount on classes and CDs. They have art kits, art supplies, and art curriculum and all kinds of art to reinforce core books for visual and kinesthetic learners.  To learn more about Visual Manna, please visit their website.  or call 816-318-1907 or click here to email.


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FEATURED ARTICLE

Volunteer Area Editors Needed for HEART of Texas Newsletter

Do you enjoy searching out fun activities, inexpensive field trips, discounts, freebies, and other things homeschoolers love?

The HEART of Texas newsletter staff is looking for volunteer editors from different parts of the North Texas region to join our team and help us find information to share with the thousands of homeschoolers who read our newsletters each month.

Whether you are a homeschool parent, a "completed" homeschooler, or even a responsible homeschool student looking for activities to include on your high school résumé, if this opportunity sounds appealing, we would love to hear from you!

Anyone in any area is welcome to apply, but we would especially be interested in hearing from those in or near the following areas:  Tyler, Sherman, Frisco, Midlothian, Weatherford, Rockwall, Waxahachie, Cleburne, Mansfield, Gainesville, Wichita Falls, or Corsicana.

Please click here to email Anne.  Include your name, phone number, city, along with a brief explanation of why you are interested in being an area editor.  



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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 over $59!

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

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:  Click Here to email


TUESDAYS & WEDNESDAYS -- Story Time for ages 3-6
Time:  10:45 – 11:15 a.m.

MONDAYS & THURSDAYS -- Toddler Time for ages 1-3
Time:  10:00 – 10:30 a.m.

MONDAYS -- Chess Club (elementary ages and up)
Time:  4:00 – 5 pm

SECOND TUESDAY OF MONTH -- Chapter Chats (4th-6th graders)
Time:  
7-8pm
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.


Live Homework Help (online tutoring)
Hurst Public Library now offers Live Homework Help
Subjects:  math, science, social studies, and English
Time:  3pm - 10pm
Cost:  Free - must have a Hurst Library Card
How To Access: V
isit www.hurst.lib.tx.us
From a library computer, or from your home PC or Mac
Spanish-speaking tutors are available to help students in math and science.
All sessions are confidential and
monitored for quality and safety.
For More Information:  C
all Youth Services at 817-788-7302 or www.hurst.lib.tx.us


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McKINNEY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM
Location:  101 E. Hunt Street
               McKinney, TX  75069
               972-547-READ
Contact:  Click Here to email  or call 972-547-7319

Program Calender:
Click Here    


Home School Classes:
(MONDAYS) JANUARY 4, 11 -- Texas Bluebonnet Book Club
Time:  
3:30 p.m.
Roy & Helen Hall Memorial Libary - Children's Dept
The Bluebonnet book club will meet 5 times to discuss all the 2009/2010 Bluebonnet book nominees and then participantes will vote for their favorite nominee.
Registration required for programs:  Click here to register


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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

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:  Support groups may not register families for the program.  Each family will need to enroll individually to be able to participate.

For Program Information: Click Here

To Enroll Your Homeschool: Click Here  

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

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:  Click Here  
   
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4.  BEST ROBOTICS 2008 PREVIEW:  HIGH OCTANE

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 a glimpse of the teaser video for this year's competition:  Click Here

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.

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 Y.E.S. Program Administrator at (800) 521-2747 ext. 146
or click here to e-mail or visit www.igus.com/yesprogram


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5.  FIRST LEGO LEAGUE

The 2009 Registration Deadline is past.

If you are interested in coaching or being involved next year:
please click here to email Mike or visit the website to learn more.

Teams consist of up to 10 students.  Students cannot be older than 14 years of age as of January
1, 2009.  Students may only participate in one team.  Coaches, however, may coach more than one team
if desired.

Core Values of FLL:
The FLL Core Values are among the fundamental elements that distinguish FLL from other programs of its kind. By embracing the Core Values, participants learn that friendly competition and mutual gain are not separate goals, and that helping one another is the foundation of teamwork.
    * We are a team.
    * We do the work to find solutions with guidance from our coaches and mentors.
    * We honor the spirit of friendly competition.
    * What we discover is more important than what we win.
    * We share our experiences with others.
    * We display Gracious Professionalism in everything we do.
    * We have fun.

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6.  TEXAS STATE FISH-ART CONTEST

ENTRIES DUE MARCH 31, 2010 (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:  Click Here

For More Information: Click Here


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

Registration Deadline Past for 2009-2010 Competition


The North Texas Regional Competition is open to all public, private, parochial and home school 7th and 8th grade classes.  Teams must be willing to make the trip to Arlington to present their designs.  The Competition offers students a hands-on way to build their math and science skills and learn about engineering by solving the real-world problems in designing cities of the future.

2009-2010 Challenge: Create an affordable living space for people who have lost their home due to a disaster or financial emergency. Keep It Green!  The living space should use sustainable materials, have a low-carbon emissions footprint, and achieve the “Green Ideals” of energy efficient building.

Through the program, students will:
    * Work as a team under the guidance of a teacher and a technical professional,
    * Use a popular award-winning computer game, SimCity, to design a logical model of a future city,
    * Realize their design with a physical scale model built with recycled materials,
    * Research and write an essay on an assigned engineering topic,
    * Communicate their design to a panel of judges in a public presentation, and
    * See firsthand how engineers turn ideas into reality.

Nominal Cost: $25 per school for registration, and we provide the software.
Registration is by school. Schools may have more than one team competing.
Schools are limited to spending no more than $100 per team on the model and presentation, combined.

Upon receipt of registration and fee, you will receive:
    • One copy of SimCity (for either Windows or Mac operating systems)
    • The Teacher-Mentor Handbook - more than 150 pages of basic rules and information on the competition,        lists of resources, ideas on how to incorporate the program into the curriculum, and hints for teachers
    • A tutorial CD
    • Specific rules and schedules for the North Texas regional competition
    • Posters

Teams:  3 students, 1 teacher-sponsor, 1 engineer-mentor.
The program employs a team-based approach. All members of the team have an important role that is necessary for the completion of the project.

Benefit:  The winning team gets a trip to Washington, DC to compete in the national finals.

Details:  Last year was the eighth year DFW hosted a regional competition. More than 500 students participated. Dozens of engineers have already signed up to support the 2007-08 competition.

To Register:  Click Here
To Download Brochure:  Click Here

For More Information:  Click Here to send email or visit www.dfwfuturecity.org


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8.  USA MATHEMATICAL TALENT SEARCH

The USA Mathematical Talent Search (USAMTS) is a free mathematics competition open to all United States middle and high school students.

2009-2010 Contest -- Submission Deadline for Round 3 Problems: January 11, 2010
Download Round 3 Problems:  
Click Here
Web Deadline:
3pm Eastern/Noon Pacific on January 11, 2010
Mail Deadline: Postmarked on or before January 11, 2010
Important:  All answers must be fully justified.  Don't just send numerical answers.

The USAMTS allows students a full month to work out their solutions. Carefully written justifications are required for each problem. The problems range in difficulty from being within the reach of most high school students to challenging the best students in the nation. Students may use any materials - books, calculators, computers - but all the work must be their own. The USAMTS is run on the honor system - it is an individual competition, whose competitive role is very secondary. (Although we do give prizes.)

The USAMTS consists of four rounds, with each round featuring five problems. Each round of problems is published at least four weeks before solutions are due.

Student solutions to the USAMTS problems are graded by mathematicians and comments are returned to the students. Our goal is to help all students: develop problem solving skills, improve their technical writing abilities, and mature mathematically.  We wish to foster not only insight, ingenuity and creativity, but also the virtue of perseverance, which is equally essential in scientific endeavors.

The USAMTS is one of the ways to enter the process of selecting the USA Mathematical Olympiad team, which participates in the International Mathematical Olympiad. The USAMTS score necessary to qualify for the American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME) is set by the American Mathematics Competitions (which run the AIME) and varies from year to year. Students who score well on the USAMTS after the first three rounds are invited to take the AIME, the second step in the process of selecting the USA Mathematical Olympiad Team.  With permission, USAMTS participant's names and addresses are provided to colleges, universities, and employers for recruitment purposes.

Round Schedule:
Round 1 Due Date:  October 13, 2009
Round 2 Due Date:  November 23, 2009
Round 3 Due Date: January 11, 2010
Round 4 Due Date: March 8, 2010

To Be Eligible to Participate:
• Students must be citizens or residents of the United States. (no exceptions).
• Students must not have completed high school. Middle school students are permitted to participate.
• Students must register on the USAMTS website and provide an email address to which USAMTS correspondence may be sent.
• Students must submit a USAMTS Entry Form. (This form must be filled out and submitted every academic year, even if the student participated in a past year.)
• Students under the age of 13 must also submit a USAMTS Under 13 Permission Form.
(Please see our privacy statement for more information on why we must collect this form.)

To Register:  Click Here.
(If you have already registered in a past year, you do not need to register again.)

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9. IGNITING CREATIVE ENERGY CONTEST FOR K-12


ENTRY DEADLINE FEBRUARY 19, 2010
All entries, including entry form and explanation must be postmarked on or before February 19, 2010

Incentives:  The most creative & deserving entry, chosen by a panel of expert judges, will be published.
    * A list of winners will be posted in the Winners Gallery area.
    * A total of 4 Grand Prizes will be awarded to 3 students and 1 teacher.
    * Three students (one in each grade cluster) whose work best exemplifies the Challenge Criteria will receive trip to Washington, D.C. for 2 (each student-winner and one parent/legal guardian). Winners will also be invited to participate in the National Energy Efficiency Forum in Washington, D.C., June 2010, where they will share their ideas with energy and government leaders.
    * The teacher with the highest average score of their top 15 entries when submitting 15 or more qualified student entries (entries earning 25 or more points each based on the Challenge Criteria) will also receive a fabulous Washington, D.C. trip for 2 (the teacher and one family member) for the same fun and educational experience. The teacher winner will also be invited to participate in the National Energy Efficiency Forum in Washington, D.C., June 2010, where she/he will share hers/his ideas with energy and government leaders.

Rules of Eligibility:
• No purchase necessary. This is a competition of skill.
• The Challenge is open to all students in grades K-12 in the U.S. and Canada. Void in Quebec.
• Entries must be submitted individually with the exception of group projects.
• Group projects may be submitted, however each individual in the group must submit his/her own entry form and written explanation and will be judged independently. All prizes will be awarded to individuals.
• Entries must relate to the theme "Igniting Creative Energy".
• Entries must be the student's original work.
• Entries must be complete, legible and include required signatures.
• Students may enter multiple projects in any creative form within the following limits:
• Documentation or written entries (500 words or 3 page limit).
• Audio or Music (3 minute limit).
• Media or electronic (10 minute limit). Videos in VHS or DVD format only.
• All entries must include a written explanation (not to exceed one page) describing how the entry relates to the theme. (see judging criteria below)
• Entries must be accompanied by the official Igniting Creative Energy entry form (click here).
• Entry forms must include signatures of the student and parent or legal guardian.
• Employees of Johnson Controls, Inc. and the National Energy Foundation and their immediate families, household members and dependents may participate, but are not eligible for prizes.
• The Challenge is open to all students K-12, however only students enrolled in accredited public and private schools are eligible for the grand prize.
• State winners will be selected from each state that has a minimum of 25 entries
 
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 prize winner. 

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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10. TEXAS BEEF LEADERS OF TOMORROW CONTEST

Win up to $1500 prizes/scholarships
 
There are four first places!

Contest Takes Place August 1
2010 Contest TBA

Contestants must be 17-20 years old
 
Compete in a live media interview and live beef sample demonstration

Contest also includes an essay and lesson plan

2009 Competition Held:  August 1, 2009 at Texas A&M
University in College Station
 
For More Information:  Click Here to Email or call 281-375-8836                    
 
Contest hosted by Texas CattleWomen and sponsored by the Beef Checkoff


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11.  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.
 
For More Information:  Click Here to Email
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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12.  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:  Click Here to email

For More Information: Click Here

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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13.  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, 2009, and April 1, 2010. 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                
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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14.  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 call 972-556-0162 or Click Here to send an email with the name of the graduating high school senior, the date of graduation and the senior’s home address to.
  
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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15.  ANNUAL CONGRESSIONAL HIGH SCHOOL ART COMPETITION

2009 ART COMPETITION (2009 contest over) -- 2010 Contest TBA

"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.

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.

Who Can Participate:  All high school students including homeschoolers.

Acceptable Medium:  Paintings (oil, acrylics, watercolor); drawings (pastels, pencil, charcoal, ink, markers); two-dimensional collages; prints (lithograph, silkscreen, block prints); mixed media; computer generated art; and photography. All work must be original in concept, design, and execution, and must not violate any U.S. copyright laws.



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16.  THEO IN PLANO OFFERING CLASSES FOR HOMESCHOOLERS

Located in Plano, THEO’s 20 Christian, talented teachers—most homeschool moms-- offer a myriad of classes for  6-12th grade home educated students.
 
In addition to this year’s classes (listed below), we are seeking your ideas for which classes you want for the 2010-2011 school year.
 
Click here to send me an email with suggestions—today if possible.
 

CLASSES OFFERED CURRENTLY (this is not the complete list):
Saxon Algebra ½-Calculus,
BJU pre-Algebra through pre-Calculus,
General Science through Saxon Physics, including Apologia Physics and Chemistry
Spanish I-III
Starting Points to Worldview I, II, III
JASON science curriculum
Texas history
World History
Geography
Debate
Speech
Research and Debate
Institute of Excellence in Writing courses plus two other writing methods
Art
Drama
English Literature
Economics and Honors Economics
Government
Sign Language
Total Language Plus classes
BJU World History and Literature classes
Understanding the times
Ensemble a/k/a band a/k/a orchestra a/k/a pep band

For Complete List of Classes or More Information:  www.THEOsonline.org

Testing Available:
Stanford Achievement testing
Iowa Basic Testing (two day testing periods for three hours each day)
the weeks of May 18-22 and May 26-29.


Location:  1301 Custer Road, Suite 703
                Plano, TX 75075
                214-282-6936


For Questions:   Click Here to email


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17.  CHRISTIAN COTTAGE PREP

 
Christian Cottage Prep is accepting registration for the second semester of the school year 2009/2010. Classes are available for one or more days per week in core subject classes.  

Classes begin January 5, 2010.

Pick and choose the schedule that best fits your educational needs.  Limited scholarships are available.  Scholarship applications are found at www.christiancottageprep.com . 
 
Classes are for students in grades 6th-12th grade.
  
LITERATURE AND WRITING- Great Expectations by Dickens is the first core book of the semester.  Class meets Tue and Thur from 1:15-3:10
 
MATH CLASSES with openings - Saxon 7/6, 8/7, pre algebra, or Algebra 1 (for students who have had difficulty in math in the past).....pick your days 1-5 days per week.  8:40-10:35
 
ENGLISH for middle and high school - Vocabulary, Spelling, Latin Roots, Latin for English grammar, grammar, and Bible....pick your days 1-5 days per week.  10:40-1:10 with a thirty minute lunch break.  Students can bring their lunch or there is a sandwich stand on the first floor lobby.
 
SCIENCE - BIOLOGY AND ADVANCED LIFE SCIENCE.  Classes meet once per week on Monday's from 1:15-3:15.  Dissection of worms, frogs, cow eye, dog shark, fetal pig, stomach, heart, and lung with trachea will be done this semester.  This lab is to supplement your biology class from home.

Location:  5601 Bridge Street, Suite 335

                Fort Worth, TX 76112
                  (in the Western Insurance Building)

Contact:    817-975-6209 or click here to email the director  
    

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18.  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.

Bookstore Hours: Mon-Thur 9-5pm
Saturday 10-2pm
 
Testing:
CERC offers Stanford and Iowa Testing year round!
Don’t miss the deadline for ordering your tests and reserve your spot on-line.
 

See our Schedule and find Registration Forms on-line under CLASSES

Classes begin January 12!

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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19.  CHRISTIAN HOMESCHOOL ALLIANCE OF TEXAS

Enrichment Days is a fun, exciting, and educational learning group that meets six times each semester at a local church.  Spring Semester Classes begin February 20, and meet every other Friday over a period of twelve weeks.
 
Each child (K-12) signs up for three classes.  Preschoolers have playtime, snack time, and age appropriate activities or crafts.  Nursery is available for children three and under at no additional cost.
 
Classes vary each semester based on the interests of the individual teachers.  You can view a sample class schedule on our website at www.c-h-a-t.org .  The classes offered that semester will not necessarily be offered again, but this will acquaint you with the kinds of classes available.  The actual spring class schedule will be posted in mid February on the website.
 
Each parent is expected to teach or assist for two of the three class periods with one free period for fellowship with other moms.  If you are interested in teaching a class, please click here to email.
 
You must be a member family in the Christian Homeschool Alliance of Texas to participate.  Membership is $30 per year.  New member families can join mid-year for $15.



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20.  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:    940-668-7833 or 940-736-6792 (cell) Click Here
        

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21.  CLASSES AT CENTER FOR HOME EDUCATION

Center for Home Education, located in Watauga, provides the best in curriculum, classes and classical theatre.

Pre-registration begins Monday, December 7, 2009, for NEW students.

Classes fill up quickly so please call before registering online to ensure space is available.

New students and parents are required to attend final registration and orientation on Saturday, January 16th anytime between 1:00pm and 3:00pm. Currently enrolled students may finalize their spring payment plan anytime before the first day of class.

Classes will begin the week of January 18th, 2010.

Thank you for allowing us the opportunity to partner with you in the education of your students.


Location:
5733 Watauga Road
Watauga TX 76148
817-281-2293
(Between 377 and Rufe Snow in Northeast Fort Worth, Texas)

Website:  http://centerforhomeeducation.com/  

Discount:  Center for Home Education 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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22.  EASTFIELD COLLEGE

For Class Registration or Other Information:  972-860-7113 or Click Here to Email


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23.  ENRICHMENT CLASSES, INC, IN LEWISVILLE

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. 

For More Information:  940-455-7000 or Click Here


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24.  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.  

For More Information:
Click Here to email Faith Christian Academy
 
Location:      Faith Christian Academy
                    115A Industrial Boulevard

                    McKinney, TX  


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25.  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.

For Class Descriptions, Fees and Other Information: Click Here

Classes Offered:
Art

Biology
Chemistry
Christian Dance for Girls
Debate & Speech
Elementary Spanish
Middle & High School English
Guitar
Girls’ Gymnastics
Home Economics
Math-U-See Algebra 1/Geometry
Math-U-See Middle School
Physics
Physical Science
Reading & Writing Club
Robotics
Saxon Algebra 2
Spanish 2 (for middle and high school students)
Stock Market Game
World Geography
World Views 1
Zoology 2 (elementary science class)


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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26.  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:  Click Here to send an email

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


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27.  JOY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY IN DECATUR
    
For more information on the JOY Christian Academy and the home school enrichment courses we offer, please go to www.joyca.org.


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28.  MORNING GLORY ACADEMY

At Morning Glory Academy, we just wrapped up our fall semester of part-time classes for homeschooled students.  I thought I'd give you all an update on news from MGA, if you are considering classes for your children.  (Isn't it a blessing to have so many options for classes?  We homeschoolers are truly blessed to have SO many resources available to us in this DFW area.)
 
First, we are able to lower tuition!  Our base tuition is now $60.00/week first student, $45.00/week for each sibling.  This is for our complete program, which is three mornings a week, 30 weeks per year.
 
Second, we have a new Inclusion Specialist, Nancy Bliss.  Nancy holds a B.S. in Special Education and has extensive experience working with children with learning differences.  She is currently taking graduate courses in educational strategies for children with learning challenges or who learn in non-traditional ways.  Many parents find themselves homeschooling when traditional, full-time schools do not meet the needs of their child.  Nancy will work with students, parents and teachers to optimize the MGA class learning environment for each child.
 
Third, though most of our students are enrolled in our complete program, we do offer 'a la carte' classes in science and math.  We offer several Life Science/Biology classes for students 6 to 15, and Pre-Algebra and Algebra I classes in math.
 
For more information, visit our website or email me privately.
 
Have a blessed Christmas season!
 
To Register:  Click Here to email
For more information:
www.theMGA.org
 
 
MGA:  Your Home . . . Our School . . . Perfect Fit.


Discount:  HEART of Texas Members receive a discount on tuition at MGA!
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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29.  TARRANT COUNTY COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL MATH CLASSES
FOR HOME SCHOOLERS

MATH CLASSES Offered January 2010:
All classes begin in the middle of January and end mid-May
Southeast Campus (Arlington)
Geometry               Tues/Thurs:  3-4:30    Synonym Number: 0167923
Algebra I                Mon/Wed: 3-4:30pm   Synonym Number: 0167924
Algebra I                Tues/Thurs: 12-3pm    Synonym Number: 0177658 (runs Jan - March)
Algebra II               Mon/Wed/Fri  1-3pm   Synonym Number: 0167918  
(runs Mid-Jan - Mid March)  
College Algebra I     Fri: 9am-12pm           Synonym Number: 0167915
Trigonometry:         Tues/Thurs: 4:30        Number not available yet

Cost:  
$166 (includes book)

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 972-660-8414 or Click Here to email


To sign up online:  www.tccd.edu
 


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30.  VENTURE HOME SCHOOL CLASSES

Registration Open for Fall 2009 Classes

Tuesdays
5th-6th Grade Math
Middle School Math
Elementary & Middle School Art

Thursdays
Enrichment/Academic Program
1st-8th Grades
(openings available in all grades)

High School Classes Offered (Tues/Thurs)
College Prep Courses
Spanish I
Spanish II
Algebra I
Algebra II
Geometry
American Government/Economics
World Geography/World History (in Christian Perspective)
Art
US History
Literature & Creative Writing
Health/Physical Education (in Christian Perspective)
Life Management Skills

For More Information:  Contact 817-788-5248 or Click Here to send an email

Location:  First Baptist Church Colleyville
                5405 Pleasant Run
                Colleyville, TX  76034
                       

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31.  YMCA OF IRVING HOME SCHOOL CLASSES

For More Information:  Contact 972-986-8898


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32.  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 – January 2
Time:    Noon - 5pm
Location: Wichita Falls Public Library
                600 11th Street
                940-767-0868  x248
Books:    3,000; 100% donated; $85% hardcover; .50-$2; half price sale on most books 1st Saurday of each month.


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DENTON – January 9
Time:    10am-4pm
Location: North Branch Library
               3020 N. Locust St.
Admission:  $1 (children 12 and under free)
Books:    .50 paperbacks; $1 hardcovers


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GRAND PRAIRIE – January 23
Time:    9am-5pm
Location: Grand Prairie Library
               901 Conover Dr.
               972-262-8015
Books:    4,000 books; all items .25
This is a one day clearance sale - all items in sale have been offered at 2 previous sales.


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LANCASTER – February 5-6
Time:    10am - 4pm
Location: Lancaster Veterans Memorial Library
               1600 Veterans Memorial Parkway
                (15 min. south of downtown Dallas, between I35E & I45 and 4 miles south of I20)
                972-227-1080
Books:    Over 3,000 books; Books by the Box starts 1pm Saturday

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LEWISVILLE – February 6-7
Time:    Sat: 9am-5pm; Sun: 1-5pm
Location:  Lewisville Public Library
                1197 West Main St
                972-434-4622
Books:    No buyer restrictions

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WICHITA FALLS – February 6
Time:    Noon - 5pm
Location:  Wichita Falls Public Library
                600 11th Street
                940-767-0868  x248
Books:    3,000; 100% donated; $85% hardcover; .50-$2;
Half price sale on most books 1st Saurday of each month.


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CARROLLTON –  February 25-28
Time:    Thurs: 10am-9pm;  Fri: 10am-9pm;  Sat: 10am-7pm;  Sun: Noon - 6pm
Location: 9th Annual Gently Used Book Sale
               Trinity Valley Shopping Center in Carrollton
               Book Sale Hotline:  972-968-6230
Books:    Over 100,000 books;  very organized sale (books alphabetized and categorized);                             DVDs, CDs, Audiobooks

Feb 25:  $1 paperbacks; $2 hardbacks
Feb 26: .75 paperbacks; $1.50 Hardbacks
Feb 27: .50 paperbacks; $1 hardbacks
Feb 28: Box of Books - $12 each box OR .25 cent paperbacks and .50 hardbacks


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33.  CHRISTIAN EDUCATORS RESOURCE CENTER

CERC, located in Rowlett, is a home school book store offering classes, testing, and other home school resources.

Location:
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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34.  CENTER FOR HOME EDUCATION

Center for Home Education in Action, located in Watauga, provides the best in curriculum, classes and classical theatre.

Stanford Achievement Test for Grades 2 - 8
Beginning May 18th, 2009. (We recommend students in highschool take the PSAT, ACT or SAT.)

The Stanford Achievement Test is a nationally standardized test.
It is not a timed test and is given each spring.
It evaluates students at various grade levels in the following areas:
Word study skills(K5-grade 4)
Reading Skills/Comprehension (K5-grade 12)
Vocabulary (grades 2-12)
Mathematics (K5-grade 12)
Language (grades 1-12)
Spelling (grades 1-12)
Social Studies/Science (K5-grade 12)
Listening (K5-grade 8)

Stanford results provide:
       Scaled, percentile, grade equivalent scores
Achievement percentiles graphed
Content cluster skills evaluations
Skills performance ratings

For more information including scheduled days and times: 817-281-2293 or Click Here


Location:
5733 Watauga Road
Watauga TX 76148
817-281-2293
(Between 377 and Rufe Snow in Northeast Fort Worth, Texas)

Website:  http://www.centerforhomeeducation.com/    

Discount:  Center for Home Education 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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35.  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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36.
 CAMPS AT CAMP TONKAWA

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

Nature Awareness Day Camps
Schedule a day each month for a fun learning session with us! 
Fall Class Topics (other dates can be arranged for a group):
DECEMBER 9 - Woods in Winter - Learn how the plants and animals prepare for the cold season.

Time: 9:30am - 2:30pm
What to Bring:  
Lunches, drinking water, nature journals (notebook or sketch book) and pencils.
Who: Children of all ages (younger children must have a parent or guardian in attendance with them)
Cost:  $15/Pre-Registered by Mail, $18/Walk-ins, $10/4 year olds, FREE/Under 4 and parents with at least one paying child.  Sign up for 4 camps this fall for only $50 (a $10 savings)
R.S.V.P:  903-429-6483

Other Day Camps:
Time:  
10am-3pm
Cost:  $25
R.S.V.P:  903-429-6483

Primitive Survival Day Camps
Sign up for one or all 5 to learn everything taught in Primitive Survival 1 & 2.
Dates:

JANUARY 25 -- Shelter
FEBRUARY 22 -- Fire
MARCH 29 -- Water/Cordage/Knots
APRIL 26 -- Edible Plants
MAY 24 -- Food/Tracking
Time:  10am - 3pm

Cost:  $25 (8-12 year olds), $30 (13-15 year olds), $35 (16-adult)
All 5 Session Camps:  $100/8-12 years; $125/13-15 years; $150/16-Adult
Pre-registration required: Minimum and Maximums are enforced, so register early!!
What to Bring:  Your lunch.
Class Description:  
At any time, anywhere, things can go wrong and you might find yourself in a survival situation. You can survive 3 minutes without oxygen, 3 hours without shelter, 3 days without water, and 3 weeks without food. To stay alive, you must find or build a shelter, obtain "safe" drinking water, start a fire and gather food.  This day camp series will cover information that we learned and have been trained to teach, from the Tom Brown Primitive Survival School. During the course of the five workshop day camps you will have hands on learning that will keep you alive. Both Session A  (January through May) and Session B (August through December) complete all the material normally given in our other Primitive Survival 1 & 2 Camps. You are welcome to come to just one class if you like, ie if you are just interested in Edible Plants or Tracking, just sign up for that day to attend. Also, you are welcome to make up a class you might have missed in your session. 

R.S.V.P:  903-429-6483

2 and 3-Day Primitive Survival Camp Classes
Come on out to Camp Tonkawa 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. 

Class Dates:
JANUARY 16-17 -- Primitive Skills Survival Class 1
FEBRUARY 20-21 -- Primitive Skills Survival Class 2
MARCH 13-14 -- Primitive Skills Survival Class 3
Time:  Class 1 or 2 -- 9:30 Saturday to 2:30 Sunday
          Class 1 & 2 Combo -- 9:30am Friday to 2:30 Sunday

Cost:  Class 1 or 2: $45/17 and Under, $60/Adults (call for family & group rates)
         Class 1 & 2 Combo:
$150/Ages 16-Adult; $120/Ages 12-15; $100/Below 12
Class Descriptions:  Click Here for Class 1
                             Click Here for Class 2
                             Click Here for Class 1 & 2 Combo
Bring:  Bring your lunches.  Dinner and ad
breakfast provided.
Vegetarian fare available; let us know. If spending the night, bring tent, sleeping bag, plate, bowl, cup and utensils. Camp chairs and flashlights are optional, but not necessary.  We have a swimming pond and outdoor showers, so bring provisions.
Class 2 requires a
non-folding knife. Bring your own or purchase a Swiss Mora survival knife at camp for $20.
Class Minimum:  Each class must have a minimum number of registrants or it will be cancelled. We can schedule a date for your group.
R.S.V.P:  903-429-6483

Other Overnight Camps:

Class Description:  Click Here for Wildlife Camp
                            Click Here for Basic Camping Skills
                            Click Here for Native American Indian Camp
Bring: A sketch book to create or add to an existing nature journal plus pencils, and any fishing gear you have. Bring your own camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, plate, bowl, mug, eating utensils).  Bring lunches. Dinner Saturday night and Breakfast Sunday will be provided. Vegetarian Fare Available. Camp chairs and flashlights are optional but nice to have. We have a swimming pond and outdoor showers, so bring provisions if you plan to take part in these.
Class Minimum:  Each class must have a minimum number of registrants or it will be cancelled. We can schedule a date for your group.
R.S.V.P:  903-429-6483

Horsemanship Day Camps
If you are not with a group, and want to join any one of the scheduled days, call for available dates.
Class Dates:
FEBRUARY 13, MARCH 6, APRIL 4, MAY 8
Time: 10am - 3pm
What to Bring:  
Lunches and drinking water
Cost:  $45/Ages 17 and Under, $60/Adults (call for family & group rates)
Class Description:  This class is for all of you who "wish" they had a horse. You will get a general overview of the responsibilities of having a pet of this size. Wear your old blue jeans and boots, if you happen to have them (hiking boots the next best footwear, then gym shoes), because you will get a chance to do some basic riding. make sure to bring hats and suncreen for sunny days.
Topics to Be Covered:  Horse anatomy, Grooming, Various tack (bridles, saddles, etc.), Feeding, Health maintenance, Teeth and age, Ferrier care, Halter, Lead, and Tie correctly, Riding Basics, Horse gaits, Rules of the Trail, Safety when working with horses.
***Once you have taken this class you can schedule a 2 hour horse groom/tack/ride session ($35/person - minimum of 2 riders) or Enroll in our Trot Camp ($75 - 5 hours w/horses, mostly riding)
Bring: Bring your own lunch. Bring plenty of drinking water. Camel packs are great if you have one.
We now have some Helmets in various sizes, or bring your own.
R.S.V.P:  903-429-6483

Other Horse Activities
:
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.
Horse Birthday Parties
Great family or friend event.  Bring your own cake and ice cream, we provide the rest

Boy Scout Camps/Merit Badges:
Wilderness Survival Camp
Earn you your merit badge and learn to make a Bow Drill Fire!  All must have a Tote & Chip because you will be working with your knives.
Horsemanship Camp
We schedule a monthly Day Camp where individuals or small groups can earn this merit badge.  We can schedule a date or week-end camp for your whole troop!
Indian Lore Camp
Come and get started on this extensive merit badge! Schedule a date for your troop. Group rates available!
Hiking and Backpacking Camp
We wil teach the basics and set you up on a training program to prepare you for a trek of your own.
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:
We can help your earn outdoor skills needed for rank advancement and belt loops.



For More Information: 903-429-6483 or Click Here to email
www.camptonkawatexas.com      


Discount:  Camp Tonkawa is offering HEART of Texas members a  10% discount for HEART of Texas members with a valid family ID card.  Offer not valid in conjunction with semester discount rates for Nature Awareness Camps.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html

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37.  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:
 
$9.50 for adults
$8 for seniors (65+)
$6 for children (ages 3-12)
Free for children ages 3 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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38.  FORT WORTH NATURE CENTER AND REFUGE PROGRAMS


Location:
 9601 Fossil Ridge Road

        Fort Worth, TX 76135

For More Information:    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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39.  FOSSIL RIM HOME SCHOOL CLASSES AND EVENTS

January Classes:
JANUARY 11 -- "Scary Animals" Homeschool Class + Tour
Time:  10am-2:30ish 
    Break for Lunch:  12:00-1:00
Cost:  $16/person (ages 2 and under free)
Bring a picnic lunch.  After lunch, take a guided tour of Fossil Rim!
To Register:  Call 254-898-4216 

JANUARY 26-- "Go Ahead, Make My Day" Homeschool Class + Tour
Time:  10am-2:30ish 
    Break for Lunch:  12:00-1:00
Cost:  $16/person (ages 2 and under free)
Bring a picnic lunch.  After lunch, take a guided tour of Fossil Rim!
To Register:  Call 254-898-4216 

February Classes:
February 16 -- "Animal Fashions" Homeschool Class + Tour
Time:  10am-2:30ish 
    Break for Lunch:  12:00-1:00
Cost:  $16/person (ages 2 and under free)
Bring a picnic lunch.  After lunch, take a guided tour of Fossil Rim!
To Register:  Call 254-898-4216 

February 22-- "Homeschool Robin Hood Day Camp" 
Time:  9am-4pm
    Break for Lunch:  12:00-1:00
Cost:  $25/person (ages 2 and under free)
Guided Tour of Fossil Rim:  1:00-2:30ish   Meet our current (non-marine!) animal residents!
Cost:  $25/person (ages 2 and under free)
Bring a picnic lunch.  After lunch, take a guided tour of Fossil Rim!
Details: 
This camp will be open to any homeschoolers.  Based on Howard Pyle’s classic, The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood, this program combines elements of several shorter programs.  Topics include European Red Deer, Horns or Antlers?, Archery, Poaching, How to Catch a Rhino or Other Wild Creature, camouflage, and a tour of Fossil Rim. The Camp will start at 9:00 at the Activities Center at Wolf Ridge.
Bring a picnic lunch. 
After lunch, take a guided tour of Fossil Rim!

To Register:  Call 254-898-4216 


For more Details:     www.fossilrim.com/visiting/home_school.html


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40. 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:  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:  
Teaches children about God's creation in an outdoor spiritual setting.  Activities include:  day hikes, fishing, 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:  817-925-1982 or click here to email



Discount:  Haven's Horses is offering HEART of Texas members (with a valid Family ID card) 50% off their first ride! You must show your card to be eligible for this discount!
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html


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41.  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.


Please note that you will need to submit a medical record form including immunization history to be able to participate in their programs.

Spring 2010 Classes Run:  13 weeks (beginning in January), Tues or Thurs, 1-3pm
Registration Starts:  November 9
Cost:  Only $8 per hour, sibling discount, monthly payment

 
5 year olds
Which Ology is Which?
“Ology” refers to the study of a topic, and in this class young scientists are introduced to the study of a variety of scientific fields. Ornithology (birds), herpetology (reptiles and amphibians), entomology (insects) and mammology (mammals) are just a few of the “ologies” that are explored in class, on the sanctuary, and with our live animals and specimens.
 
6-7 year olds
Discover Your World: Habitats of Texas
From the desert to the ocean, ponds to the wetlands, and mountains to the prairies, this class will study the many different environments in Texas where plants and animals make their homes.
 
8-9 year olds
Explorers: Wildlife & Water
How plants and animals need and use water in the different habitats on the sanctuary and in the world is the focus of this experiential study. Students will also compare the ways wildlife adapts to living in freshwater and saltwater environments.
 
10-12 year olds
Earth Trek: Sharing the Planet, Part 2
From ants to zebras, every animal on the Earth has a purpose. Students will discover the importance of myriad animal species on our planet and learn the connections they have to us and each other. In Part 2, we will continue to explore different ecological dilemmas from endangered species to the effects of climate change on ecosystems, animal behavior and health. With the application of the scientific method, this will be an in-depth, thought-provoking and problem-solving experience.


Complete application includes:
• Registration form
• Medical Record Form
• Payment according to selected payment plan
Only complete application packets will be processed.  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:
Click Here to send an email
                                  972-562-5566 x237
                                                       
Location:  One Nature Place
                McKinney, TX  75069
               
www.heardmuseum.org


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42.  HERITAGE FARMSTEAD MUSEUM -- PLANO
 
Fridays at the Farmstead Schedule
Time:  10:30am (program lasts about 1-1/2 hours.
Geared for ages 3-6 or 6-12.  Costumed docents lead children in groups of 10 through each activity.
Cost:  $5/child;  $3/adult chaperone (includes tractor-pulled covered wagon ride)
Bring: A lunch to enjoy a picnic on the farmstead.
Advanced Registration Required:  972-881-0140
Schedule will resume in 2010.


The Museum Grounds are Open Year-Round (Except Mondays and Holidays)
Tuesday - Sunday 9:00am - 4:30pm

Docent-Led Tours
Time:  1:30 p.m. Tues-Sun. (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

Time:  9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Tues - Sun
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 is 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 972-881-0140 for more information.

 
For Registration and Other Information:   972-881-0140 or Click Here                                                   
           
Location:      Heritage Farmstead Museum
                    1900 West 15th Street
                    Plano, TX


Discount:  Heritage Farmstead Museum is offering HEART of Texas members a $1 off the adult regular admission price (up to 4 people) and .50 cents off child's regular admission, good for either the 1:30pm Historic Farrell-Wilson house tour or for the following special events: Harvest Festival, Lantern Light, Spring Festival.   
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html

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43.  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!

Special Event for Homeschoolers
WILD Homeschool Day -- Rescheduled for March 30, 2010

Time:  9am - 4pm

Open to the Public Days (MARCH - NOVEMBER)
SATURDAYS
Time:  10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (last tour begins at 4:30)
OCTOBER 3; 10; 17; 24; 31

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:
Click Here
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:  Click Here
940-686-4600 (main)
940-686-3715 (fax)


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44.  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.

Regular Admission & Hours:
$4/adults; $3 seniors (60+); $2 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 is
two 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.


Other Events:
JANUARY 9, 2010 -- Inaugural Mass Butterfly Release
Time:
 10:30am; festivities last all day long!
Cost:  $15 to release a butterfly into the Conservatory (
Includes butterfly house admission).  Other activities free with paid admission.  
Wear your favorite tropical shirt - bright patterns sometimes attract butterflies to land you you.  Bring your camera and look for butterflies!  

JANUARY 16 -- Garden Walk (Winter in the Gardens)
Time:  
11am-Noon
Cost: Free with Garden admission




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.  We also work with Scout Leaders to put together Webelos and Eagle Scout projects, and have a number of Community Service opportunities for older Scouts.   For more information please click here.
Community Service Projects:  Opportunities for older scouts are available on special projects and community events such as Day at Fair Park. Training is provided by the staff of Texas Discovery Gardens.
For Scouting Program Info: 214-428-7476 x 27

For More Information: Click Here


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45.  TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT ACTIVITIES

ATHENS, TX

DECEMBER 12, JANUARY 9 - Bird and Nature Walk
Location:  Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center
Time:  9am - 11am
Details:  Expect to see 25 or more different species of birds as we explore our Interpretive Wetland Trail and other areas of the hatchery. Bring binoculars; field guide welcome. Accessible for the mobility impaired.
Fees:  $2.75 Texas State Parks Pass members, $5.50 non-members, $4.50 senior citizens and $3.50 children 12 and under.
For More Information:  903-676-BASS.


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CEDAR HILL, TX

No events scheduled for this month.

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DENTON, TX

No events scheduled for this month.

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EUSTACE, TX (Henderson/Van Zandt Counties)

DECEMBER 19 - Saturday Movie Night
Location:  Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 7:30pm
Details:  Enjoy "The Polar Express" movie under the stars at the park. Bring blankets or chairs. Hot chocolate provided.  Weather permitting. Accessible for the mobility impaired.
Call: 903-425-2332.

JANUARY 16 - Nature Hike
Location:  Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 4pm - 5pm
Details:  Take a guided hike and learn about the flora and fauna of the park. Weather permitting, meet at the overflow camping parking lot.
Call: 903-425-2332.

JANUARY 23 – Night Hike
Location:  Purtis Creek State Park
Time: 7:30pm - 8:30 pm
Details:   Take a hike into the night and learn about the nocturnal animals that frequent the park. Discover how the darkness affects your senses. The hike is about one mile and on relatively flat terrain. Meet at the over flow camping parking lot.
Call: 903-425-2332.


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GLEN ROSE, TX

DECEMBER 5 & 19, 2009 - Photography Tour
Location:
Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
Time:
1-5pm (on 5th) or 2-6pm (on 19th)
Cost:
$65/person
Preregistration required

Details:
Take part in a four-hour photography tour, where you will be able to take pictures of the park's 59 animal species at dusk.
For more information and Registration:
Click Here to email or 254-898-4222.


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JACKSBORO, TX

DECEMBER 12 - Christmas Dance Spectacular
Location: Fort Richardson State Park & Historical Site & Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway
Time:  2pm-4pm
Details:  Join the fun as Mrs. Tammy's Acrobatics and Dance Troupe from Mineral Wells (2 year olds through teens) performs tap, jazz, ballet and hip hop routines especially choreographed for this occasion. You'll flip over the tumblers as they bound over the boards on the porch of the hospital! Accessible for the mobility impaired.
For More Information:  940-567-3506

DECEMBER 19 - Family Fishing Day
Location: Fort Richardson State Park & Historical Site & Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway
Time:  9am-Noon
Details:  Quarry Lake will be stocked with rainbow trout as well as bass, catfish, crappie and perch, so the fishing will be great! No fishing license is required. Come out, spend time with your family and enjoy the fun. Accessible for the mobility impaired.
For More Information:  940-567-3506..


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MINERAL WELLS, TX

DECEMBER 5, 13 - Cross Timbers Cowboy Campfire Christmas
Location: Lake Mineral Wells SP & Trailway
Time:  6-7:30pm
Details: Bring the whole family to the Lone Star Amphitheater for a campfire program of cowboy music, poetry and sing-along with a Christmas theme. Accessible for the mobility impaired.
Call: 940-328-1171


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PILOT POINT, TX

Ray Roberts Lake SP/Johnson Branch Unit

DECEMBER 5- Kids N Nature - Birds
Location: Ray Roberts Lake SP/Johnson Branch Unit
Time:  9am-11am
Details: Come learn about our birds of Texas and gain helpful tips for birding; then learn how to attract your own neighborhood birds and make a bird feeder to take home. Take a stroll with us down Dogwood Trail to see how many of our winged friends we can find. Group size is limited. Accessible for the mobility and visually impaired.
Preregistration Required:  Deadline December 4

Call: 940-637-2294

DECEMBER 5, 12, 19 - Guided Nature Hikes on Vanishing Prairie Trail
Location: Ray Roberts Lake SP/Johnson Branch Unit
Time:  3-4pm
Details: Blooming wildflowers, plants, animals and ecosystems of North Texas prairies and cross-timbers will be explored on these one-hour journeys. Accessible for the mobility and visually impaired.
Call: 940-637-2294

DECEMBER 12, 19 - Dogwood Canyon Bird Walk
Location: Ray Roberts Lake SP/Johnson Branch Unit
Time:  9am-11am
Details: Bring your binoculars or use one of our loaners as we learn the basics about birding on this guided walk in Dogwood Canyon. The one-to-two-mile guided tour is moderately strenuous. Open to all ages, children must be accompanied by an adult. Bring water and wear good walking shoes. Meet at the Dogwood Camping Area parking lot. No pets please.
Call:
940-637-2294



Ray Roberts Lake/Isle du Bois Unit


No events scheduled for this month.

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TYLER, TX

DECEMBER 5 – Christmas Pine Ride
Location:  
Tyler State Park
Time:  5pm-8pm
Details: Enjoy riding through the park on a fragrant bed of pine singing Christmas carols while enjoying hot apple cider and cookies.




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

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46.  THEATER PERFORMANCES AT CASA MANANA CHILDREN’S PLAYHOUSE

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 2009-2010 Season:

2009-2010 Season Performance Schedule
NOVEMBER 20 - DECEMBER 23 -- Santa Claus is Coming to Town
Christmas is in trouble! When the greedy toy company DeBiggy Toys International gets a judge to outlaw Santa Claus, a rag-tag band of singing, dancing children are the only ones who can save Christmas. The adventure zips from the North Pole to Acapulco and back again in this clever, fun-loving musical by Joel Ferrell. A true North Texas classic! This show is suitable for all audiences.
To Order Online Tickets:  
Click Here

FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 7 -- Alamo (The Musical)
Adapted for students of all ages, this heroic, historic tale is based on the eyewitness account of Enrique Esparza, one of the children who witnessed the battle of the Alamo firsthand and lived to tell about it. Watch history come alive on stage as Casa Mañana presents a historically-accurate, musical portrayal of the siege of the Alamo. Combat is suggested theatrically in a manner suitable for all audiences.
To Order Online Tickets: Click Here

APRIL 2-18 -- Cinderella
When her Fairy Godmother transforms her rags into a beautiful gown and sends Cinderella to the Royal Ball in a pumpkin chariot, not even her wicked stepmother and evil stepsisters can keep her from finding true love. But when the spell is broken at midnight and Cinderella flees the castle, the Prince must scour the kingdom to find the girl of his dreams, whose foot alone will fit into the magical glass slipper. This show is suitable for all audiences.
To Order Online Tickets:  
Click Here

APRIL 30 - MAY 16 -- Peter Pan
Never grow up! Fly off to Neverland with Peter Pan, Wendy and Tinkerbell and join the Lost Boys in a magical adventure, as they battle against the evil Captain Hook and his band of pirates. Get swept away in this exhilarating, Tony Award-winning musical adaptation of the classic J.M. Barrie play. This show is suitable for all audiences.
To Order Online Tickets:
Click Here

Order Season Tickets!
Order a 5-Show Season Ticket package to secure GREAT SEATS for these fantastic, family fun productions at Casa Mañana Theatre. 
For More Information:  Call Customer Service at 817-332-2272

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47.  PERFORMANCES AT CATS THEATER IN ARLINGTON


2009-2010 Performances
DECEMBER 4-12 -- Carla's Song - The Story of the Homeless Christmas Tree
"The Homeless Christmas Tree" sounds like a children's tale and, in fact, the book which inspired this play is a children's story. But this play is about the woman behind the children's story and she did not live a fairy-tale life. Carla lived and worked for a time at the Presbyterian Night Shelter, and it was during that time that she began to decorate the "homeless Christmas tree." There are some men, women and children there who are good people just "going through a bad patch," as Carla says in the show, and many overcome their temporary circumstances and leave the shelter for more normal lives. "The Homeless Christmas Tree" is a story about hope, Christmas, and an extraordinary city full of caring people. It embodies the incomitable spirit of Texas. Without a doubt, this is the "must see" for any holiday season. Watch for the special book signing by the play's author. Written by Fort worth resident, Leslie Gordon, and rewritten as a play by Kit Hussey.

JANUARY 29 - FEBRUARY 6 -- Yankee Doodle Dandies
"Am I a Yankee Doodle Dandee?" The question of a curious child leads a cheeky classroom of youngsters on a comic romp through American history. From Christopher Columbus' courageous ocean voyage to Sacajawea"s trek across the continent to Harriet Tubman's valiant escape through the Underground Railway - from the penning of the Declaration of Independence, these students tell the stories of America's birth - and laughingly and lovingly gain a new understanding of the richness of being American.

FEBRUARY 26-MARCH 6 -- There's a Boy in the Girl's Bathroom
"Give me a dollar or I'll spit on you." That's Bradley Chalkers for you. He's the oldest in his class. He tells enormous lies; picks fights with girls and teachers say he has "serious behavior problems." No one likes him - except Carla, the new school counselor. She thinks Bradley is sensitive and generous, and she even enjoys his far-fetched stories. Carla knows that Bradley could change, if only he weren't afraid to try. A story of isolation, bravery and gradual acceptance told with great humor by Lous Sachar, the author of "Holes."

MARCH 26-APRIL 2 -- The Secret Garden
Mary Lennox is a sickly, sour-faced little girl born in India to wealthy British parents who have very little interest in her, leaving her in the care of a nanny from birth. Orphaned by an outbreak of cholera, she is sent back to England to the legal guardianship of her only remaining relative, her father's brother-in-law, Archibald Craven, a reclusive widower. Mary has all kinds of adventures with strange sounds at night, funny accents and a locked garden.

APRIL 30-MAY 8 -- Fundraiser Show TBA
JUNE 15-17 -- Lyle the Crocodile
JULY 6-8 -- Disney's Aladdin, Jr.
AUGUST 3-5 -- Berenstain Bears

Show Times:
Friday: 7:30 p.m;  Saturday: 2:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m;  Sunday: 2:30 p.m.
Tickets:
2007/2008
  * Regular admission $8.
  * Group rate for a group of 10 and more $6.
  * Lap passes for children 0 to 3 years old are $4.
  * School Matinees group rate $5. See link below for group rates
  * 2008 Fundraiser Show $15 for adults & $10 for children/students

To Order Tickets Online: Click Here
For Information on Group Rates: Click Here
For More Information:  817-861-2287;   metro: 817-265-8512

Location:  1100 West Randol Mill Road
                Arlington, TX  76012


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48.  COTTAGE THEATER – CENTER FOR HOME EDUCATION

Center for Home Education’s Cottage Theater Presents:

JANUARY 22-30 – Sleeping Beauty of Loreland
Times:  Jan 22, 23, 25, 28, 29, 30 @ 7:30pm;  Jan 24, 30 @2:30pm
Tickets:  $10/adults; $8/children; no charge for lap children.
To Purchase Tickets:  817-281-2293.  No refunds.

Story:  To save Princess Beauty from marrying the wrong prince, her old Nanny lets her prick her finger and the spell begins. The hubbub of wedding preparations stops as, one by one, servants and courtiers begin to slow down, nod and fall asleep. This process is reversed just as humorously as—the hundred years having passed—the true prince awakens Princess Beauty with a kiss.

APRIL 16-24 –  Once Upon a Mattress
Times:  April 16/17/23/24: 7:30pm;  April 17/18/24: 2:30pm
Tickets:  $10/adults; $8/children; no charge for lap children.
To Purchase Tickets:  817-281-2293.  No refunds.

Story:  If you thought you knew the story of "The Princess and The Pea," you may be in for a walloping surprise! Did you know, for instance, that Princess Winnifred actually swam the moat to reach Prince Dauntless the Drab? Or that it may not have been the pea at all that caused the princess a sleepless night? Carried on a wave of beguiling songs, by turns hilarious and raucous, this rollicking spin on the familiar classic of royal courtship and comeuppance provides for some side-splitting shenanigans. Chances are, you'll never look at fairy tales quite the same way again.

MAY 13-23 – You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown
Times:
May 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22 @7:30pm;  May 23@2:30pm
To Purchase Tickets:  817-281-2293.  No refunds.


Class Performance Auditions:
JANUARY 19 - 20 (4:30pm) – Once Upon a Mattress
Auditioners must make appt and have 1-2 minute song prepared w/accompaniment CD or accompanist.
Callbacks:  JANUARY 26
Class Rehearsals:  FEBRUARY 2-APRIL 8 (Tues/Thurs; 4:30-6:30)
Tech Week:  APRIL 12-15 (6:30-9:30pm)
For Appointment/Schedule of Fees:  
Contact Anicia at 817-571-9839


FEBRUARY 8 & 10 (4:30-6:30) – You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown
Auditioners must make appt and have 1-2 minute song prepared w/accompaniment CD or accompanist.
Callbacks:  FEBRUARY 12 AT 4:30PM
Class Rehearsals:  FEBRUARY 16-APRIL 29  (Tues/Thurs; 4:30-6:30)
Performances:  MAY 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22 @7:30pm;  MAY 23@2:30pm
For Appointment/Schedule of Fees:  
817-571-9839




For More Information:
  817-281-2293

http://centerforhomeeducation.com/thecottagetheatre.aspx  
 

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49.  PERFORMANCES AT ARTISAN THEATER IN HURST

Artisan Center Theater holds quality, "in the round" performances that are family-friendly, entertaining, and affordable! Artie's Playhouse, their Interactive Children's Theater, offers original, fun-for-all-ages productions featuring familiar characters and themes, but with fresh twists that keep it entertaining and exciting for parents as well as children. Each story has its own character focus, which is reinforced throughout the play.

The "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:
NOVEMBER 20-DECEMBER 19 -- The Forgotten Carols
In 2004, THE FORGOTTEN CAROLS played at Artisan, and every show sold out. Now, back by popular demand, Artisan brings back Michael McLean's timeless Christmas tale.  Constance is a middle-aged nurse whose empty life is changed by a new patient who tells her the story of Christ's birth as told from the perspectives of lesser-known characters in the nativity story. Their personal accounts help her discover what the world has forgotten about Christmas, and open her heart to the joy of this special season.

JANUARY 1-30 -- Swing
SWING! celebrates some of the most exhilarating big band songs of the pre-war period. This feel-good song-and-dance musical is sure to get you on your feet!

Location:  420 E. Pipeline Road in Hurst, Texas (in the Bellaire Shopping Center)

Showtimes:
Mon & Tues: 7:30pm;  Thurs/Fri: 7:30;  Sat: 3pm & 7:30pm

Tickets:
Mon, Tues, Thurs: $12/Adults; $12/Students & Seniors (60+); $7/Ages 12 and under
            Fri & Sat: $16.00/Adults; $14/Students & Seniors (60+); $9/Ages 12 and under.
Reservations recommended.
Season Tickets and Group Discounts Available.
To Reserve Tickets: 817-284-1200
For More Information:  Click Here


Artie’s Children’s Playhouse Productions:

NOVEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 19 -- Disney's 101 Dalmatians - Kids
In a loving home in London, Dalmatian parents, Pongo and Perdita happily raise their Dalmatian puppies, until the monstrous Cruella De Ville plots to steal them for her new fur coat! Join all the dogs of London, as they daringly rescue the puppies from Cruella and her bumbling henchmen.

JANUARY 2 - 30 -- Tut, Tut, King Tut!
Transport yourself back to the mysterious world of Ancient Egypt! When 9-year-old Tutankhamun suddenly becomes Pharaoh, he is counseled by his tutor Ay to leave his friends and boyhood behind. Tut’s pet Sphinx and friend Artie try to help Tut balance his new responsibilities, and have still fun, too! Solve the Sphinx’s riddles, but watch out for the mummy!

Artie’s Playhouse Ticket Prices:  $5 per person

Showtimes:  Tues: 4:30 p.m;   Thurs/Sat:  10 a.m.
To Reserve Tickets: 817-284-1200
For More Information:  Click Here

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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50.  PERFORMANCES AT BASS PERFORMANCE HALL

Broadway at the Bass Presents:
DECEMBER 1-6 -- Riverdance (Farewell Performances)
Nothing compares to the energy, the sensuality and the spectacle of Riverdance. An innovative and exciting blend of dance, music and song, Riverdance draws on Irish traditions and captures the imagination of audiences across all ages and cultures. This extraordinarily unique show features an international company performing to the magic of Bill Whelan’s music in the farewell performances of Riverdance!
To Order Tickets Online:  Click Here

MARCH 9-14 - 2010 -- Fiddler on the Roof (Topol Farewell Tour)
In a huge theatrical feat, audiences will have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see Chaim Topol, star of the original motion picture, in his farewell performance of the award-winning role that made him legendary. Based on the stories of Sholom Aleichem, Fiddler on the Roof has been lauded by critics again and again and won the hearts of people all around the world. Filled with a rousing, heartwarming score, Fiddler on the Roof is a timeless classic.
To Order Tickets Online:  Click Here

JUNE 8-13, 2010 -- Little House on the Prairie
Laura Ingalls Wilder's classic has remained one of the most popular, beloved celebrations of early Americana for over 70 years. Now the inspirational stories take on a brand new frontier in an uplifting new musical starring Melissa Gilbert, who played Laura for 10 years in the much-loved television series, as "Ma." Families will fall in love all over again with these life-affirming stories about the Ingalls' struggles and the pioneering spirit that resonates in each of us.
To Order Tickets Online:  Click Here

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 Purchase Tickets at the Box Office or to Learn About Season Tickets:
Call 817-212-4280 or 817-332-2272.


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51.  DALLAS CHILDREN’S THEATER PERFORMANCES

2009 - 2010- Season:
(Please note that not all productions are suitable for all audiences.)  

NOVEMBER 21 - DECEMBER 21 -- The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
Baker Theater/Rosewood Center
Suggested Age:
5 years and above
It just isn’t Christmas without the Herdmans!  The worst kids in the history of the world are determined to be in the annual Christmas pageant.  The congregation is horrified, but sometimes compassion  and generosity come from the most unexpected places.  Blessings abound in this all new production of  DCT’s Yuletide Blockbuster!

NOVEMBER  20 - DECEMBER 22 -- Santa's Holiday for Strings

(Kathy Burks Theatre of Puppetry Arts)
Studio Theater/Rosewood Center
Together again! There’s Santa, Frosty, dancing penguins, a singing armadillo, and more in this rollicking musical revue created especially for DCT audiences by Kathy Burks’ nationally celebrated troupe. Back by popular demand, it’s the perfect holiday gift, full of fun, friendship, and family!
Download Study Guide:
Click Here

JANUARY 22 - FEBRUARY 21 -- How I Became a Pirate

Baker Theater/Rosewood Center
Suggested Age:  4 years and above
It’s a swashbuckling musical based on the colorful award-winning book. Young Jeremy Jacobs joins Captain Braid Beard’s scurvy crew for high seas adventure, but learns that the truly important things in life are worth more than buried treasure. A joyful musical that will leave you and your young mateys singing and dancing in the aisles!

FEBRUARY 26 - MARCH 21 -- Hansel & Gretel

(Kathy Burks Theatre of Puppetry Arts)
Studio Theater/Rosewood Center
Suggested Ages:  Ages 4 and above
Striking puppetry, an enchanting forest, and the familiar music of Engelbert Humperdink come together in this magical re-telling of the classic fairy tale. Two children set out on a journey to save their family and encounter a mysterious old woman in a house made of candy!  Kathy Burks' talented troupe creates another haunting and highly visual production.

MARCH 19 - APRIL 25 -- The Lion, The Witch, & The Wardrobe
Baker Theater/Rosewood Center
Suggested Ages:  7 and above
A celebrated piece of children’s literature comes to the stage!  Join four courageous children as they step through the wardrobe and enter the mythical land of Narnia. Hurled into a battle between the forces of good and evil, they must help free the land from the clutches of the White Witch and in doing so discover the heroes within themselves.  A thrilling adventure from a master storyteller!

APRIL 9-25 -- hard 2 spel dad *
Studio Theater/Rosewood Center
Suggested Ages:  12 years and above
Pamela is excited to make a “fresh start” when she and her mother move away.  Pamela is learning different.  So is her new friend Zak.  Navigating their way through adolescence, both young people struggle to accept who they are and how they learn.  Illuminating the difficult and often misunderstood world of dyslexia, the play follows the lives of two young people and their paths to self-acceptance.
* Young Adult Relevant Drama (YARD) production.  May contain mature subject matter and strong language.

MAY 7-23 -- Carnival of the Animals
Baker Theater/Rosewood Center
Suggested Age:  4 years and above
Experience life on the wild side with this new and expanded puppet interpretation of Saint-Saens’ “zoological fantasy for orchestra.”  This musical menagerie set in motion with multiple styles of
puppetry is an exhilarating experience for all ages.  It’s an innovative introduction to classical music brought to life with stunning colors, comedy, movement and sound.  A visual spectacle you don’t want to miss!


MAY 7-23 -- Most Valuable Player *
Studio Theater/Rosewood Center
Suggested Age:  11 years and above
DCT’s National Touring Company brings this highly praised production home to the Rosewood Center in the inspiring story of one of America’s true heroes. Jackie Robinson was the first African-American to break the color-barrier of professional, major league baseball. His story is a lesson in dignity and integrity that continues to reverberate today!
Download Study Guide:  Click Here
* Young Adult Relevant Drama (YARD) production.  May contain mature subject matter and strong language.

JUNE 18 - JULY 18 -- Giggle, Giggle, Quack
Baker Theater/Rosewood Center
Suggested Age:  3 years and above                                                                
Duck on the loose!  In this hilarious sequel to last season’s barnyard blockbuster, Click, Clack, Moo: Cows That Type, good ol’ Farmer Brown decides to take a vacation and leaves his city-slicker brother, Bob, in charge with specific directions on how to care for the animals.  Duck re-writes the instructions demanding “pizza for the hen”, “bubble baths for the pig”, and ”movie night for the cow.”  It’s another madcap musical mutiny, so, join in the summer fun.

  
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.

Student Matinees: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
Time: 10am
Cost:  $7.50/person for groups of 10 or more $7.50 per person (1 FREE chaperone per 20 student tickets)
Deposit required with reservation
Balance due SIX WEEKS before performance.
All plays, locations, dates and times are subject to change.
To Make Reservation:  Call 214-219-2049 or click here to email

Locations:  (refer to individual production to determine location)
               
 Rosewood Center for Family Arts
                 5938 Skillman Street
               
                 El Centro College Theater
                 801 N. Main St.
               


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52.  DALLAS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PERFORMANCES

FEBRUARY 2, 4 -- Musical Families (grades PreK - 2)
This fun and engaging program for younger concert-goers explores how orchestra instruments fall into distinct families based on how they produce sound. Performances trace how instruments are used in styles which are familiar to students and how these same instruments are used in the symphony orchestra. 

MARCH 26, 31;  APRIL 1, 13 -- Bach to the Future (grades 3-6)
This fascinating program explores how composers throughout history, using the same instruments and the same notes, have developed music of incredibly different styles. Focus will be given to the elements of articulation, expression, rhythm and harmony, and how students can apply these elements to their own music making.

Admission:  
$6/person (payment must be received with all reservations)
Times:  10am and 11:30am
Please arrive at least 30 minutes before concert time.
Concerts last approximately 45 minutes.
Special Students at the Symphony Program: Free seats are available to mentally and physically challenged students.  To participate, complete the appropriate information on the reservation form.
To Reserve Tickets:  Click Here or call 214-871--4006.  Mention that you saw their ad in the HEART of Texas newsletter when you contact them.

Additions to your reservation must be received and confirmed by Noon, two days before your concert date. Only reservations confirmed in advance can be seated.  No walk-ins.

Concert Location:  Meyerson Symphony Center
                            2301 Flora Street
                            Dallas, TX  75201
                            (intersection of Pearl & Flora Street in the heart of the Downtown Dallas Arts District)
For Directions:  Click Here


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53.  FORT WORTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA YOUNG PERSONS CONCERTS

JANUARY 13, 14 -- The Composer is Dead (ages 7-12)
Times:  
Jan 13: 10:15am and 12:15pm
             Jan 14: 10:15am

Tickets:  
$4/person
Location:  
Bass Performance Hall in Fort Worth
Details:  In the tradition of Peter and the Wolf, Nathaniel Stookey's delightful The Composer is Dead introduces young people to the sounds of the orchestra through an intriguing mystery...in which every member of the orchestra is a suspect!


MARCH 25 -- Green Eggs and Ham (ages 3-6)
Times:  9:45am and 11:15am
Tickets:
$4/person
Location:   McKinney Memorial Bible Church
                3900 South Hulen Street in Fort Worth
Details:  Back by popular deman, Robert Kapilow's Green Eggs and Ham brings Dr. Seuss's classic to life in this version for orchestra, narrator, and soloist.

To Order Online with Credit Card:  Click Here

Orders for Fewer than 20 Seats:  Must be paid in advance.

Orders for 20 or More:  
May be reserved without advance payment.
Approximately one month before the concert, you will receive a notice confirming the number of seats you have ordered and the total amount due (if applicable). If the final number of seats needed for the concert is different from that listed on the notice, please call with a corrected number immediately upon receiving the confirmation. Full payment is due two weeks before the concert date for groups of 20 or more.
Absolutely NO refunds for changes in reservation numbers after this date.
Special Note for Groups of 20 or More:   When you reserve a seat, that seat is held for you and not sold to another individual until you release it. Therefore, we ask you to verify the actual number of seats needed before making concert reservations. We understand that you may need to adjust the number of reserved seats before the payment due date, and those emergencies may cause cancellations. However, the privilege of reserving seats without advance payment may be revoked if your organization cancels more than 20% of its total reserved seats or fails to attend a concert for which it has reserved seats. 

Children Under Age 3:  Because of the nature of the event, we request that children under age three not be brought to these concerts, particularly to the concerts at Bass Performance Hall. You must purchase a seat for each person to be admitted to a concert, regardless of age.

For Questions:  Click Here to send an e-mail message or call 817-665-6500.

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54.  PLANO CHILDREN’S THEATER PERFORMANCES

NOVEMBER 20-22  and DECEMBER 3-5 -- Beauty & the Beast
Times:  
7:15pm-Fridays/Saturdays;  7:15pm-Thursdays;  2:15pm-Saturday/Sundays
Tickets:  $7/advance;  $9/at door
Purchase Advance Tickets:  972-422-2575 during business hours.
Location:  PCT at 1301 Custer Road, Suite 706, Plano
Show Details: Beauty and the Beast Jr. is the junior-length version of Disney's Beauty and the Beast. It's the same story but shortened to approximately one and a half hours to make it more accessible for younger actors and audiences. You'll see Belle, Mrs. Potts, the Beast, and even Chip plus you'll hear all the beautiful songs from the film. Directed by Megan Woodall.

DECEMBER 4-13 -- Seussical Jr.
Times:  
7:15pm-Fridays/Saturdays;  2:15pm-Saturday/Sundays
Tickets:  $7/advance;  $9/at door
Purchase Advance Tickets:  972-422-2575 during business hours.
Location:  Heard-Craig Hall, 306 N. Church Street, McKinney
Show Details: Seussical Jr. is a fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza featuring all of our favorite Dr. Seuss characters, including The Cat in the Hat. The story centers around Horton the Elephant, who finds himself faced with a double challenge--not only must he protect his tiny friend Jojo (and all the invisible Whos) from a world of naysayers and dangers, but he must guard an abandoned egg, left to his care by the irresponsible Mayzie La Bird. Although Horton faces ridicule, danger, kidnapping and a trial, the intrepid Gertrude McFuzz never loses faith in him. The powers of friendship, loyalty, family and community are challenged and emerge triumphant, in a story that makes you laugh and cry. Directed by Cassidy Crown.


DECEMBER 11-20 -- Annie Jr.
Times:  
7:15pm-Fridays/Saturdays;  2:15pm-Saturday/Sundays
Tickets:  $7/advance;  $9/at door
Purchase Advance Tickets:  972-422-2575 during business hours.
Location:  PCT at 1301 Custer Rd, Suite 706, Plano
Show Details: The story of the little orphan Annie is one we never get tired of seeing again and again. Annie Jr. is the junior-length version of Annie. It tells the story of the Depression-era orphan determined to find her parents, who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City Orphanage run by the cruel Miss Hannigan. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie foils Miss Hannigan's evil machinations, befriends President Franklin Roosevelt and finds a new family in billionaire Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary Grace Farrell and a lovable mutt named Sandy.The cast of this show includes young children as well as teenagers.Directed by Marcelle Livesay Hamilton.



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.

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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55.  TEXAS BALLET THEATER PERFORMANCES

The Texas Ballet Theater is once again partnering with HEART of Texas to offer our newsletter readers special ticket pricing on great seats, during select performances.  The dates and times of these select 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.


2009-2010 SEASON:
NOVEMBER 27-DECEMBER 6 -- The Nutcracker (Winspear Opera House in Dallas)
HEART of Texas Discount Days:  NOVEMBER 27 at 2pm
                                                         DECEMBER 5 at 2pm

DECEMBER 11-24 -- The Nutcracker (Bass Performance Hall in Ft. Worth)
HEART of Texas Discount Days:  DECEMBER 19 at 2pm
                                                                        DECEMBER 24 at 2pm

FEBRUARY 12-14 -- Romeo & Juliet (Bass Performance Hall in Ft. Worth)
HEART of Texas Discount Day:  FEBRUARY 13 at 2pm
                                                         

MARCH 12-14 -- Romeo & Juliet (Winspear Opera House in Dallas)
HEART of Texas Discount Day:  MARCH 13 at 2pm

APRIL 9-11 -- The Sleeping Beauty (Bass Performance Hall in Ft. Worth)
HEART of Texas Discount Day:   APRIL 10  at 2pm

JUNE 11-13 -- The Sleeping Beauty (Winspear Opera House in Dallas)
HEART of Texas Discount Day:   JUNE 12  at 2pm


Special Ticket Prices for HEART of Texas Discount Days:
Bass Performance Hall:  $30 for Orchestra or Mezzanine
                                  $15 for Upper or Lower Gallery

Winspear Opera House:   $30 for Orchestra or Mezzanine
                                   $15 for Dress Circle or Grand Tier


To Purchase Tickets:  
www.texasballettheater.org/?q=showschedule
Promo Code:  HEARTDAYS

Can't attend one of these performances?  
Texas Ballet Theater still has a great deal for you!
All other performance dates will be discounted 20%.

Promo Code:  HEART20

To order by phone:  877-828-9200.  Give the ticket agent your promo code.
 


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56.  HOME SCHOOL DISCOUNT TICKETS TO DALLAS THEATER PERFORMANCES

DECEMBER 1-20 -- 101 Dalmatians
Save 15% on regular priced tickets.
Location:  Music Hall at Fair Park
To Order Tickets:  Click Here
Password:
SUPER

If you order, please click here to send an email with the date you chose and the number of tickets ordered.

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57.  AMON CARTER EXHIBITS

The Carter houses one of the nation’s preeminent collections of American art, from works by the early nineteenth-century artist-explorers through those of the mid-twentieth-century modernists and up to the work of contemporary photographers. The museum also holds one of the most comprehensive collections of work by Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell.

Family Fun Day:
None scheduled for December


Museum Exhibits:
THROUGH JANUARY 3, 2010 -- Masterworks of American Photography: Moments in Time
Journey through photography’s history in an exhibition of works from the medium’s early years to the present day. Taken together, these images from the Carter’s permanent collection reflect the diversity and richness of an American visual tradition and explore photography’s unique relationship to time.


SEPTEMBER 19-JANUARY 10, 2010 -- Views & Visions: Prints of the American West
Experience the intrigue and fascination of the early American West in a special exhibition of nineteenth and twentieth century prints and illustrated books from the Carter’s permanent collection. Views and Visions: Prints of the American West features works by American artists who were enamored with depicting the grand landscapes, wild animals, and rugged individuals of the West.

NOVEMBER 24-MAY 17, 2010 -- Freedom Now:  Tamarind Lithography Workshop
This exhibition of prints from the 1960s explores the international call for social and political justice and examines how a handful of artists addressed these themes through irony, satire, allegory, and stark realism.

DECEMBER 12 - MAY 16, 2010 -- Edward S. Curtis:  The North American Indian
In 1900, Edward S. Curtis undertook the momentous task of documenting American Indian cultures across the United States. Over the next thirty years, he took over 40,000 photographs and collected information about more than eighty tribes, ranging from the Inuit people of the far north to the Hopi people of the Southwest. The Amon Carter Museum will display a selection of works from this compelling new acquisition.

Guided Tours for Students:  
Click Here

Museum 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.


Location:  Amon Carter Art Museum
        3501 Camp Bowie Boulevard
        Fort Worth, TX 76107
        817-738-1933


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58.  DALLAS MUSEUM OF ART EXHIBITS  

FREE First Tuesdays of each month

Exhibits:

THROUGH JANUARY 3, 2010 -- The Artistic Furniture of Charles Rohlfs
THROUGH JANUARY 31, 2010 -- A Dream Come True: The Dallas Arts District
THROUGH FEBRUARY 28, 2010 - All the World's a Stage: Celebrating Performance in the Visual Arts
THROUGH MARCH 21, 2010 -- Performance/Art
THROUGH MAY 16, 2010 -- About Materials & Meanings
THROUGH MAY 23, 2010 -- Jacob Lawrence: The Life of Toussaint L'Ouverture

Family Events:
JANUARY 5, FEBRUARY 2 -- Free Admission on First Tuesdays of the Month
Theme:  
Our Community (Jan. 5)
Time:
11am - 2pm (Center for Creative Connections)
Ages:  Designed for children ages five and under and their families.
Details: Enjoy thematic art-making activities, story times, performances, and gallery activities.
Schedule:
11am-2pm: Make map of neighborhood using colorful materials.
11am-2pm: Say hello to Arturo.  Don't forget to write him a letter.
11am-2pm: Experiment with our kid-friendly website and play online art games.
11:30-Noon: Join storyteller Ann Marie Newman for stories, songs, & games based on works in the Museum.
12:15-12:45pm: Take an imaginary trip through the neighborhood as we look at how artists have portrayed communities in paintings and photographs.
1-1:30pm: Listen to stories told by our librarian friends & participate in a "ready to read" mini-workshop.
1-2:30pm: Weaving demonstration with artist Lesli Robertson
1:30-2:15pm: Go on an adventure to communities in Brazil and Hawaii with this bilingual duo and learn how people communicate their thoughts and feelings through singing, playing instruments, and using sign language.

Family Activities:
Tuesday­–Friday, 2:00­–3:00 p.m.
Cost: Family activities are free with paid admission. No registration is necessary.
Please call 214-922-1822 for more information.
Experience the Museum's premier collection through a cinematic lens with Summer Spotlight drop in activities for families. Meet in the Center for Creative Connections.

Family Audio Tour:
Tuesday-Sunday from 11am-5pm
Cost:  Free; at the Visitor Services Desk
Ages 5–11.

Late Night for Kids
JANUARY 15
Time:
6pm-Midnight
One Friday a month, the Museum is open until midnight with music, tours, and performances in the galleries.

Weekends at the Museum:
SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS -- Studio Creations
1pm-3:30pm in the Art Studio
Discover a new art-making activity each month! Join us in the studio, where volunteers are on hand to help your family make unique art projects. All materials are provided.
JANUARY 2-31 --  Explore movement in costumes, music, and dance in the exhibition All the World's a Stage, and then stop by the studio and use movement and music to create your own watercolor paintings.

Sketching in the Gallery for Kids

EVERY THIRD SATURDAY with some exceptions
1pm-3pm

Families are invited to sketch from original works of art. All supplies are provided.
JANUARY 16 -- European Painting and Sculpure Galleries, Level 2
 
Collections Connection:
SUNDAYS
1:30 - 3:30pm, Level 3
Take an in-depth look at a different work of art each month. A trained volunteer will be in the galleries with engaging materials for all ages.
JANUARY 3-31: Lady Bolon K'an, Level 4
FEBRUARY 7-28: Olowe of Ise, Level 3

Family Films

SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS at 2pm in the Theater, Center for Creative Connections
JANUARY 2-31 -- I Can Fly, Part II: Kids, Painting and Art Appreciation (28 min, ages 5-15)
How do you make a great painting? Hosted by a teenager, this inspiring video explores five key elements of painting: color, light, style, texture, and subject. The film features the artwork of Rembrandt, Monet, Degas, Renoir, van Gogh, and Matisse.
February 6-28 -- I Can Fly, Part IV: Kids and African American Art (28 min., ages 5–15)
Six bold, brilliant artists paint and speak of the black experience in America—the history, politics, city life, and country life: Faith Ringgold, Jacob Lawrence, Alison Saar, Benny Andrews, Elizabeth Catlett, and Romare Bearden. The video also features Lowery Sims, Executive Director of the Studio Museum in Harlem.


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
Late night Fridays - museum open until Midnight.

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.
$10/Adults $10; $7/Seniors (65 and over) $7;  $5/Students (with current school ID); Free/12 and under

FREE on Thursday evenings from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. (special ticket prices may apply to exhibitions)
FREE on the first Tuesday of each month (special ticket prices may apply to exhibitions)

Group Discounts (10 more more):   Call 214-922-1222 or click here to email
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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59.  KIMBELL ART MUSEUM EXHIBITS

The Kimbell Art Museum’s holdings include artworks ranging in period from antiquity to the 20th century. The collection includes masterpieces by Fra Angelico, Caravaggio, El Greco, Cézanne, Matisse, and Picasso, as well as antiquities, Asian, African, and pre-Columbian art.

THROUGH MARCH 21, 2010 -- From the Private Collections of Texas
The Kimbell plays host to 100 of the most important European paintings and sculptures ever held in private collections in Texas. Most of them are works normally hidden from public view, ranging from glorious Impressionist paintings that once decorated ranchers' homes in West Texas to gems of Renaissance and Baroque art owned by the great collectors of Dallas and Houston. Since first coming into wealth on a national scale in the 1920s, Texans have continued to assert a record of art collecting of the highest discernment. Over 40 collectors will be represented, and among the artists to be featured are Guercino, Rembrandt, Gainsborough, Monet, Renoir, Gauguin, Van Gogh, Matisse, Picasso, and Mondrian.
To Learn More About This Exhibit:
Click Here

ON VIEW BEGINNING SEPTEMBER 26 -- Michelangelo's First Painting: The Torment of St. Anthony
Beginning September 26, 2009, Michelangelo’s first known painting, The Torment of Saint Anthony, will be on view among the permanent collection of the Kimbell Art Museum. It will be featured in a focus exhibition including a facsimile of the Schongauer engraving on which it is based and the recent technical examinations and scholarly analyses that identify it as the painting described by Michelangelo’s biographers. This work was executed in oil and tempera on a wooden panel in 1487–88, when the artist was only 12 to 13 years old. It is the first painting by Michelangelo Buonarroti (1475–1564) to enter an American collection, and one of only four known easel paintings generally believed to come from his hand. The others are the Doni Tondo in Florence’s Uffizi Gallery and two unfinished paintings in London’s National Gallery, The Manchester Madonna and The Entombment.
To Learn More About this Painting:  Click Here


Topics for Teachers
Explore various topics relating to the permanent collection and special exhibitions with learning activities, hands-on demonstrations, and docent-guided tours designed for teachers.
None scheduled for this month

Children's Workshops (ages 6-14)
JANUARY 9 -- Dot, Dash, Swirl, Splash
Time:  
10am - Noon
From Vincent Van Gogh's brushstrokes to Paul Klee's color combinations, explore how artists experiment with paint to express ideas and emotions on canvas.

Pictures & Pages (ages 4-6)
JANUARY 5 -- What Would You Do with a Tail Like This?
by Steve Jenkins & Robin Page
FEBRUARY 2 -- Why is Blue Dog Blue?
by George Rodrigue, text with Bruce Goldstone
Time:  
10:30-11:15am
Popular children's books inspire group conversations and simple art activities.
Advance registration is required.  Space is limited. Maximum two children per adult.
To Register:  817-332-8451, ext. 297.


Museum 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 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.

Tickets:  Click Here

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).

Group Sales:  Discounted tickets for groups of 20 or more are available with a reservation for a specific date and time, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. For reservations, call 817-332-8451, ext. 229. Reservations for groups should be made at least two weeks in advance.


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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60.  MUSEUM OF NATURE AND SCIENCE


Exhibits:
The Science of Spying:  The new spy skills exhibition -- Closes January 4, 2010
Get ready for a fun and educational sleuthing odyssey!
Spy recruits, report for training: Learn to crack a safe. Detect a lie. Take on a secret identity. Fine-tune your powers of observation. Once you have the skills, a secret mission awaits. Do you have what it takes to carry out this exhilarating covert operation? Only you can crack the case!
With action-packed adventure and surprises at every turn, this is an experience you don’t want to miss!

To Read More about this Exhibit:  
Click Here
Tickets:  
$10
To Purchase Tickets Online:  Click Here (Online ticket purchases are subject to additional fee)

Putting DNA to Work
DNA can be used to detect diseases, improve crops or catch criminals. The information in DNA sequences has been harnessed for a multitude of tasks, but how is DNA put to work? Through interactive multimedia activities, you can explore some of the applications of DNA technology and discover the many ways these uses may affect your life.

Putting DNA to Work is an engaging interactive exhibit where visitors can investigate how inherited and infectious diseases are identified and explore the various uses of DNA analysis in criminal forensics and crop improvement.  Putting DNA to Work encourages visitors to examine DNA sequences and see how that knowledge can be used to unlock the secrets hidden in our genes.  The hands-on exhibit, best enjoyed by teenagers and adults, is an accessible way for visitors to learn about one of today’s hottest scientific topics.

Explore some of the fascinating ways DNA technology helps us out every day!
Click here to enter an interactive preview of Putting DNA to work.


Events:
FEBRUARY 15-19 -- Engineers Week
FEBRUARY 20-21 -- Tech Fest
From the smallest conveniences to the biggest innovations, this annual event encourages visitors to rethink technology and get excited about future scientific discoveries and achievements. Join us for hands-on activities, crafts and more!

Planetarium Shows
Wonders of the Universe
Peer deep into space through the eyes of the orbiting Hubble Space Telescope to witness the birth of the universe.
Journey to Infinity
Starting with a Space Shuttle flight around planet Earth, we take an interactive journey through our solar system.

For Planetarium Show Schedule:  Click Here

Online Exhibits:

Journey to Alaska

Dr. Tony Fiorillo explores Alaska
http://www.natureandscience.org/exhibits/alaska/default.asp

Permanent Exhibits:

Your Incredible Body
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.
Lagoon Nature Walk
Explore the Leonhardt Lagoon Nature Walk
Paleontology Lab
See fossils brought back from the field for preparation
Ice Age Dallas
Fossils from the last Ice Age
Ocean Dallas
See ocean creatures that once swam near Dallas
Texas Dinosaurs
Life and death in the Big Bend examines dinosaurs that once lived in Texas
Wildlife Dioramas
View the Museums four distinct wildlife diorama halls
Dental Gallery
Come learn about dental health
Little Urban Farm
Vividly illustrate to children and families the crucial role that farms play in all our lives
NetWorks:  The World of Digital Communication
Take a virtual ride through a network
Astronomy & Space
Visit the only public planetarium in Dallas County.
Mixed Signals Gallery
(reopening Sept 26)
Mixed Signals is an experience about how you process your visual world

Children's Hand-in-Hand Program
Time: 10-11:30am
Hand-in-Hand is a literacy-based program for adults and their preschoolers to imagine, explore, and discover together. Hear a story, get your wiggles out to music, create theme-related crafts and enjoy fun activities!
JANUARY 13 -- “Snow Days, Fun Days”
Find out what happens when a little boy wakes up to find a winter wonderland of snow as you listen to a story The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats.
JANUARY 20 -- "Warm & Fuzzy"
Chant along with the story We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen. We’ll have tons of teddy bear fun exploring animals in winter.
JANUARY 27 -- “Suit Yourself”
How do you keep warm in winter? Hear more ways to keep warm as you listen to the story The Jacket I Wear in the Snow by Ezra Jack Keats.
FEBRUARY 3 -- "Have a Heart"
Celebrate your healthy heart as you listen to the story How Much Do I Love You by Sam McBratney.
FEBRUARY 10 -- "Wags to Whiskers"
Celebrate “Love your Pet”. Come for a reading of Pet Show by Ezra Jack Keats. Bring along your favorite stuffed pet for us to compare!
FEBRUARY 17 -- "Little Buckaroos"
Put on your favorite cowboy boots & hit the dusty trail for our rodeo round-up story time with the story Cowboy Baby by Sue Heap.
FEBRUARY 24 -- "Dinosaur Rumpus"
Stomp along as you listen to the story Dinosaur Rumpus by Tony Mitton.


Discovery Days (SECOND SATURDAYS)
-- Starting in March 2010

MARCH 13:  Discover Sports
Natural ability alone isn’t enough to make a great athlete. It also takes lots of practice, a little luck—and the powerful principles of science. How does the human body adapt to help high-performance athletes continually run faster or jump higher? What are some of the ways that physics is always swinging into action to make your favorite sports possible? Discover the answers to these questions and more when you join us for a day of Slam-Dunk Science.
APRIL 10: Discover Outdoors
For most of us, going camping seems like a simple way to get back to nature. But have you ever stopped to think about the science behind all the great equipment we have to help make the trip safe and fun? From hiking shoes and compasses to tents and canoes, we’ll explore the cool concepts that make your favorite gear and gadgets possible. We’ll also check out the natural wonders of our own Leonhardt Lagoon during this awesome outdoor family adventure.
MAY 8:    Discover Dinosaurs
With our interactive Dino Dig gallery, kids can create a fossil cast and lead their own excavation—unearthing the same kinds of clues that paleontologists use to learn about life in the age of the dinosaurs. And just when you think things couldn’t get any more amazing, our resident paleontologist will be on hand to share some behind-the-scenes insights that are sure to stop you in your tracks!

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: www.natureandscience.org/information/admission.asp


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61.  FORT WORTH MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY

Explore innovative learning studios and a wide variety of interactive exhibits in the new Museum of Science and History. Exhibit admission also includes entry to the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame.

Admission:

$14 for adults
$10 for children (3-12) and seniors (60+)
Admission to ExploraZone and all National Cowgirl Museum exhibits is one price and free for all Museum members

Location:  1600 Gendy Street, Fort Worth, 76107 (corner of Montogomery & Gendy)

Exhibits:
THROUGH MAY 2, 2010
:  CSI:  The Experience
Imagine entering a crime scene and being the one responsible for noticing and collecting every trace of evidence. The pressure is on: you know the analysis of your evidence must be scientifically sound to crack the case.  You've seen the hit television crime drama, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation on CBS. Now, there's a forensic science exhibit related to the TV show, as well as a Web-based learning adventure.

CSI: The Experience is a completely immersive exhibit that invites visitors to enter "crime" scenes where they identify and record evidence. It takes them inside "laboratories" for scientific testing and to "autopsy" rooms for pathology analysis. Then it returns them to the "office" to build their case, based on the scientific evidence. The exhibit brings to life real scientific principles and the most advanced scientific techniques used today by crime scene investigators and forensic scientists.

From DNA and firearms analysis to forensic anthropology and toxicology, visitors will be immersed in hands-on science in an exciting multi-media environment with dazzling special effects direct from the CSI TV series. Cast members from the TV show welcome guests into the exhibit from a large video monitor, lead them through the experience, and praise them for a job well done at the end. The exhibit is geared toward adults and youth ages 12 and above.  Use parental discretion in determining whether this exhibit is appropriate for your child or family.

CSI Exhibit Walk-Through:  
Click Here

CSI Family Guide:  
Click Here to download the "Family Forensics" educational guide. (Spanish Version, 4.1 MB.) This full color brochure provides springboard topics and experiments to enjoy together. Discuss important skills that are essential to Crime Scene Investigators and add to your knowledge with additional interesting details.
•       Test your power of observation.
•       Solve logistical riddles.
•       Experiment with blood spatter, using our recipe for fake blood.
•       Learn about telltale fingerprint details and examine your own with this informative guide.
With broad appeal for many ages, this guide is excellent for expanding the learning and the fun.



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62. NASHER SCULPTURE CENTER

Location:  Dallas Arts District
                2001 Flora Street
                214-242-5100

THOUGH JANUARY 10, 2010 -- The Art of Achitecture: Foster & Partners
Scheduled to coincide with the grand opening of the new, Foster-designed Winspear Opera House in the Dallas Center for Performing Arts, the exhibition will explore Foster + Partners’ major architectural achievements of a practice that spans the past four decades.  Architectural models, along with drawings, renderings, photographs, and videos, will give insight into the formal and conceptual underpinnings of Foster + Partners’ architecture and provide context for better understanding their new contribution to the panoply of modernist architecture in Dallas.  The exhibition will feature some of the largest and most notable structures in the world, including the Great Court at the British Museum, the Reichstag in Berlin, Trafalgar Square in London, and the new Terminal 3 at the Beijing International Airport.

JANUARY 30 - MAY 2, 2010 -- Jaume Plensa:  Genus & Species
For the past 20 years, contemporary Spanish sculptor Jaume Plensa has been investigating the intimate interconnection between nature and culture through large-scale sculptures and installations that incorporate light, sound, and text in transparent, often interactive structures, such as the incredible Crown Fountain at Millennium Park, Chicago. Jaume Plensa: Genus and Species highlights nine recently completed, large-scale works chosen by the artist and curator specifically for the spaces at the Nasher Sculpture Center. Installed both indoors and out, this dynamic exhibition will expand our understanding of the work of this important, living sculptor and provide crucial context for Plensa’s Song of Songs III & IV in the Raymond and Patsy Nasher Collection. The exhibition will also offer opportunities for meaningful educational and programmatic collaborations that touch on the myriad, interdisciplinary subjects in Plensa’s work: language, philosophy, history, literature, religion, and science.


Target First Saturdays -- FREE Admission from 10am-2pm
JANUARY 2 - Work & Play
Schedule:

10am-Noon - Children’s Art Activity
       Express yourself by creating unique artworks connected to the month’s Big Idea.
10am-12:30 - Art in Action Sculpture Demo  
        See how sculpture is made and feel the materials artists use at our live artist demos. 
10am-2pm - Art Scavenger Hunt
       
Exercise your detective skills to search the Nasher for art related to the month’s Big Idea. Complete the hunt for a special prize!   
10:15; 11:15; 12:15 - Family Tours
       
Discover and discuss each month’s Big Idea on an interactive tour for the whole family.  
12:30pm - Storytime with the Dallas Public Library
       
Share in the joy of reading with storytellers from the Dallas Public Library.
1pm - NasherKids Live!
       
Join in the fun with an exciting, live performance for families and young children.


www.nashersculpturecenter.org


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

NOW SHOWING -- Giants of Patagonia
Ticket Prices:  $7/adult; $6/child (3-11) and seniors (62+); $6 students 18+
Details:  Dinosaurs: Giants of Patagonia highlights the history, evolution, and extinction of the dinosaurs. Don't miss this chance to experience fantastic computer-generated footage of the giganotosaurus and argentinosaurus as this documentary-style narrative, done in collaboration with some of the top scientists in the field, whisks you into the world of some of the largest known dinosaurs. Plan for an exciting adventure in paleontological discovery and prepare to be captivated by these massive and endlessly-compelling creatures!

For Showtimes: Click Here

Online Tickets: Click Here


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64.  SHOWS AT THE FORT WORTH OMNI THEATER - MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY

The Omni  Theater is currently undergoing renovation while the Museum builds its new campus.  The Theater will reopen in late Spring 2008 with digital sound system, improved facilities, and all-new Imax adventures.

The Alps -- Through February 2010
        Animalopolis -- Opens November 20
        Disney's A Christmas Carol (Rated PG) -- Through January 18
        Ride Around the World -- January 15 - February 7, 2010
        Forces of Nature -- Opens January 19, 2010
        Sharks -- Opens February 27

NOW PLAYING:  
THROUGH JANUARY 18 -- Disney's A Christmas Carol (Rated PG)
Tickets:  
$12/adults; $10/ages 3-12 and Seniors 60+
Through the all-encompassing power of IMAX, movie-goers will reach for the falling snowflakes, feel the rumble of the horse-drawn carriages over the cobblestone streets and soar with Scrooge high above the London night sky. With crystal clear images, laser-aligned digital sound and maximized field of view, IMAX puts you IN the movie. “It’s as if Charles Dickens wrote this story to be a movie—it’s so visual and cinematic,” says Robert Zemeckis, director/producer/screenwriter. “It’s the greatest time-travel story ever written and I wanted to do the movie the way I believe it was originally envisioned by the author.”  Disney’s A Christmas Carol, a multi-sensory thrill ride re-envisioned by Academy Award®-winning filmmaker Robert Zemeckis, captures the fantastical essence of the classic Dickens tale.
For Information About the Movie:  
Click Here

THROUGH FEBRUARY 2010 -- The Alps
Tickets:  
$7/adults; $6/children 3-12 and Seniors 60+
A stirring and inspirational journey, full of adventure, courage, personal loss, family triumph, and breathtaking mountain visuals unfolds in a new IMAX® theatre film adventure from two-time Academy Award®-nominated producers of Everest.
For Information About the Movie:  
Click Here

JANUARY 15 - FEBRUARY 7, 2010 -- Ride Around the World
Tickets: $7/adults; $6/children 3-12 and Seniors 60+
Ride Around the World, takes you on a spectacular journey through Morocco, Spain, Argentina, Chile, Mexico, British Columbia and Texas, to meet vaqueros, gauchos, baqueanos and cowboys who are part of a single global horse culture – an unbroken trail stretching back 1,500 years.

THROUGH SUMMER 2010 -- Animalopolis
Tickets: $7/adults; $6/children 3-12 and Seniors 60+
Order Tickets: 817-255-9540 or Click Here for online ordering
There is a small service fee for tickets purchased online and by phone.
Details: The whimsical film is done in rhyme and verse with a humorous tone while concentrating on real-world animal activities. It takes a lighthearted and imaginary look at a variety of animals, including cheetahs that race like a Ferrari, bears that run their own fishing school, an operatic lion, scary crabs that hold a town hostage and even attempt to cuddle with children, and much more. Whether going nose to nose with hippos as they graze upon nature's massive salad bar, or eye to eye with dancing bears, sea lions turning somersaults, or an otter that prays, we are reminded that nature provides us with humor and wonder everywhere.
For more Information about Animalopolis:  
click here

OPENS JANUARY 19, 2010 -- Forces of Nature

Tickets: $7/adults; $6/children 3-12 and Seniors 60+
Details: Forces of Nature showcases the awesome spectacle of earthquakes, volcanoes, and severe storms while following scientists on their ground-breaking quest to understand how these natural disasters are triggered. You’ll travel to the very brink of erupting volcanoes, into the paths of deadly pyroclastic flows, along massive fault lines, and aboard vehicles barreling toward tornadoes. Along the way, you’ll learn what is being done to predict and prepare for these events and minimize their deadly effects.
For more information about Forces of Nature:  click here


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65.  PROGRAMS AT LOG CABIN VILLAGE

Location:  2100 Log Cabin Village Lane
        Fort Worth, TX  
        817-392-5881


JANUARY 9 -- Whatcha Got Cookin'?
Time: 1:00—4 p.m.
Cost:  Regular Village admission plus $2 craft fee to gather your own recipe cards for a book.
Details:
Join us in welcoming the Prairie Dog Chapter of the Lone Star Dutch Oven Society to the Village as they show us how everything from soup to dessert can be prepared in a cast iron pot!  Get your hands “dirty” as you discover frontier foodways for yourself.  The weather may be cool, but things will be heating up around here!

No Reservation Required

FEBRUARY 13 -- The Art of Necessity
Time: 1:00—4 p.m.
Cost:  Regular Village admission plus $2 craft fee to finger weave.
Details:
The daily chores of the nineteenth century are the lost arts of today!  Members of the South Central Region of the Embroiderer’s Guild of America, Inc., will be on hand showcasing some of the skills used during this creative time period.   Then dig in to try your hand at carding, dyeing, spinning, and weaving cotton, wool, and other fibers!

No Reservation Required

MARCH 12 -- Timber Tales Storytime
Time:  
10-11am
Cost:  $4 fee includes a story, fun activities, and craft geared toward 3-5 year olds.
Details: Featured story:  Texas Zeke and the Longhorn by David Davis.  Can Zeke get his ornery longhorn home?  With a little help from “friends,” this cowboy will be enjoying his chili in no time!
Reservation Required:  Call 817-392-5881

MARCH 13 -- Tooling Around....
Time:  
1-4p.m.
Cost:  Regular village admission.
Details: Grab your punches and your awls...it’s time to craft leather!  Fort Worth’s own Lone Star Leather Crafters Guild will be here demonstrating their fine work and giving Village visitors the chance to stamp a little leather on their own! 
No reservations required.  




For More Information:  Click Here

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66.  DALLAS HERITAGE VILLAGE


Family Past Times
FIRST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH
Admission:  
FREE
Bring the whole family for historic fun and participate in themed activities for everyone to enjoy.

NOVEMBER 1 -- Fall Harvest
Celebrate autumn at the Village! Make luminaries, leaf rubbings and explore how Victorians lit up chilly fall nights.
DECEMBER 6 -- Simple Celebrations
Help the Village’s residents prepare for the holidays. You’ll even get a chance to make a gift for someone special.

Nip & Tuck's Barnyard Buddies Storytime
SECOND WEDNESDAYS (SEPT - MAY)
Stories, Music and Hands-On Activities for Preschoolers
Hear a story or two and make a craft with your child. All in the only historic village in Dallas!
Time:  11 a.m
Cost:  Non-members:  $5/child – includes admission to Dallas Heritage Village before or after program.
Tickets can be purchased by phone, at the gate or online.
RSVP: 214-413-3674 or by email
Monthly Themes:
NOVEMBER 11 -- In the Country, In the City
How is the country different from the city? Settle down for a favorite old tale, explore Main Street and create a city or country landscape collage!  We'll be reading The Country Mouse and the City Mouse.
None scheduled for December


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

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

The Noble Planetarium is under construction, but you can still gaze at the stars and learn about the night sky during our free monthly  Star Parties.

PARTIES WILL RESUME IN Spring 2010
Cost:  
Free
Location:   In the parking lot just south of Museum construction (corner of Montgomery and Harley).
Time:  Dusk - 10:30pm


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


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68.  ALEDO CHRISTIAN SCHOOL'S BASKETBALL, BASEBALL, VOLLEYBALL, SOFTBALL TEAMS

Aledo Christian School, located in Aledo,TX, is offering their sports programs to home schoolers.

Who:  7-12th grade boys and girls
Girls Sports:  
Volleyball, Basketball, Softball
Boys Sports:  Basketball & Baseball

Location:  Aledo Christian School
                400 Queen Street
                Aledo, TX  76008

For Information About Baseball:  817-939-2979 or click here to email Coach Snethen.
For Information About Other Sports: Contact Tim Barton at 817-441-7357
 

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69.  BERNE ACADEMY'S BOYS VARSITY BASKETBALL

Berne Academy, located in Lancaster, TX, is looking for homeschoolers to play on their Boys'  Varsity Basketball Team.  They are associated with T-CAL (Texas Christian Athletic League) out of San Antonio.

Who:  7-12th grade boys
Location of Practices:  Tommie Allen Recreation Center on Bonnie View Road
For More Information:  972-218-7373 or click here to email
 

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70.  HOMESCHOOL SWIM-- The Colony Aquatic Park

Brand New!  Expanded Homeschool Swim in The Colony!!
The price for fall season passes are very reasonable, especially since there are now
three different days a week that you can come!
 

When: 
Monday/Wednesday/Friday
Time:  
11-Noon

Location:  
The Colony Aquatic Park
               5580 N. Colony Blvd  
               The Colony, TX  75056


Cost:  
$3 - ages 7 & up
         $2 - ages 6 & under

Note:  Children 6 and under MUST be directly attended by a swimming adult within arms reach.

Seasonal Passes available:
 $45 - Individual
                                          $60 - Micro-family (2-3 members)
                                               
  $80 - Family (4+ members)

For More Information: 972-624-2225 or Click Here to email
www.TCpard.com


And for those of you who are concerned about the Cryptosporidium Outbreak in the DFW area, please paste this link to read what we have done to prevent the problem:
www.ci.the-colony.tx.us/Depts/PARD/Aquatics/CryptosporidiumUpdate.html
 

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71.  HOME SCHOOL SWIM AND SWIM TEAM AT DON RODENBAUGH NATATORIUM
IN ALLEN

Home School Open Swim
Half-Price Fridays at the Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium!

Time:  1pm – 3pm during the school year
Who:  Home school students and their families.
Cost:  $2/Students;  $2.50/adults
For More Information:  Call 214-509-4770 or visit www.allenparks.org


City of Allen Home school Swim Team
Practices:  Monday through Friday from 12:30pm – 2:00pm
Location:  Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium
For more information:  Call 972-992-3996 or visit www.metro-aquatics.org


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72.  CHRISTIAN MARTIAL ARTS

Christian Martial Arts, an outreach of First Baptist Church of Euless, is offering a free month of classes to HEART of Texas newsletter readers who wish to try out their program.  Christian Martial Arts has been ministering to the physical as well as spiritual needs of local families for almost ten years at First Euless!

It is a fun way to get plenty of exercise in an environment that seeks to honor God and teach respect for others. The tenets of CMA are Courtesy, Humility, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control and Indomitable spirit. Students learn fundamentals of self-defense, balance, flexibility, practice and repetition. We encourage progress through belt promotions but each student is only in competition with himself to advance. We have sparring nights, optional board breaking, tournaments and special events including Christmas parties and demonstrations. If you are looking for a great family activity, you've found it!


Cost: $25/month per person

Times/Class Descriptions:
Monday: 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm - Children only
Monday: 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm - Beginners & Advanced of all ages
Thursday: 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm - Beginners of all ages
Thursday: 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm - Advanced students
Saturday: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm - Open Workout for all students



For More Information: Click Here


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73.  DALLAS THUNDER HOME SCHOOL BASKETBALL

Contact:  972-475-3946 or Click Here to email

Dallas Thunder is a home school competitive basketball organization.  For our 2008/09 season, we plan to have boys and girls teams ranging in ages from 12 and under through 18 and under. 


Dallas Thunder offers:
Christ-centered, competitive Basketball for Home schooled boys and girls
Experienced, Professional Coaches.
The opportunity to play top public and private schools in the area
Participation in the National Christian Homeschool Basketball Tournament.

Website: www.dallasthunder.org 


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74.  ELITE TRACK CLUB/CROSS COUNTRY PROGRAM


For More Information:  Click Here to email or 817-800-3922                                


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75.  HOME SCHOOL ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION

The Home School Athletic Association is a Christian-based organization providing athletics for homeschoolers through volunteer home school parent. They provide various programs including football, baseball, volleyball, soccer, and basketball for high school and middle school home schoolers.

TRACK AND FIELD PROGRAM:
What to Bring:
There will be limited blank copies of the forms at registration, so please print out ahead of time.

1.  Spring 2010 Track & Field Application
2.  HSAA Athletic Release and Medical Authorization
3.  HSAA Eligibility Requirements (Track Application)
4.  HSAA Appearance Code
5.  HSAA Expectations (Track Application)
6.  Physical Evaluation Form (not required until the first practice in Jan 2010 but may be turned in at registration if physical already completed for 2009-2010 school year)
7.  Checkbook
        A.  Player Fees
        B.  Uniform Fees
        C.  Spirit Wear Order

Uniforms:
There will be a full run of sizes of both warm-ups and tank/shorts for the athletes to try-on. Athletes that competed on the 2009 team have the option of using the same warm-up number for the 2010 season.  Those athletes will sign a uniform agreement and must check-out the warm-ups DURING registration.  After registration is complete, the warm-up uniforms will be distributed randomly.

2010 Fees:
Basic Fees*
           
High School - $275
          Middle School - $175

Uniform Fees
           
Boys Tank/Shorts - $25
          Girls Tank/Shorts - $27
          Girls Tank only - $17
          Boys Tank only - $15
          Shorts only - $10.50
          Optional:  Running Tights (black) - TBD
          Optional (highly recommended) Compression Shorts (navy) - $13
 

*Financial Aid requests must be coordinated through the Track Commissioner and approved by the HSAA board.  Please click here to contact the coach for an application.

Spirit Wear Sales (items that support the team):
We will place an order for spirit wear in November once registration is complete.  These items display our team spirit at meets and also make great Christmas gifts!  We will have a second order for spirit wear in February.  Some of the items may include:  HSAA t-shirts, sweatshirts, knit caps (for those cold/windy track meets), baseball caps, umbrellas, and car stickers.


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76.  THESA RIDERS HOME SCHOOL  ASSOCIATION

THESA Riders is a home school  association, providing the DFW area with competitive and Christ-centered athletic programs for home schoolers at the high school and junior high level.

THESA offers the following:
Baseball: Click Here    

Boys Basketball: Click Here    
Girls Basketball: Click Here    
Girls Volleyball: Click Here    

For More Information: http://www.thesariders.org/


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77.  HULCY HOME SCHOOL PE CLASSES IN RICHARDSON

Register Today for Fall 2008!

Come try your first class for free and see if our 20 year reputation of helping kids enjoy  in a competitive Christian atmosphere is right for your family. 100% of the children that have tried it... have stayed.
 
Ages:  6-12
 
Cost:  $20 a month for first child... $15 a month for any additional children.
 
When:  Tuesdays (once a week)
Girls meet from 2:00-3:30 pm.
Boys meet from 3:30-5:00 pm.
To sign up just call 214-695-5560
 
Where: - Heights Park in Richardson on Floyd
in between Belt Line and Arapaho on the West  side of 75 (south of Arapaho).
 
We play an array of competitive  for kids at any skill level: dodgeball, football, kickball, flag tag, capture the flag, war, softball, baseball, crazyball, flipperball, Frisbee golf, soccer, circle dodgeball, track and field, and tons more.  We also play fun and easy games such as:  squirrel in a tree, two headed monster, parachute games, and much more!

We have a family camp out in October, and a Field Day at the end of the year that includes a picnic dinner, volleyball, hay ride, playing in a tree house, games, a bonfire, and cooking hotdogs outside!
  
Call RHETT HULCY directly to enroll or for any questions about the class:
214-695-5560

Discount:  Rhett is offering HEART of Texas members one free month of classes, 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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78.  HOME SCHOOL PE PROGRAMS AT VELOCITY  IN HIGHLAND PARK

Velocity  in Highland Park is Offering Home School PE Classes!

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

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

Classes:  Available Monday through Thursday – you choose what day(s) works best for you!

Location:  7730 N. Central Expressway
        Dallas, TX  

For More Information: Call Mark Cox at 214-739-1122
Ask about their special offers for HEART of Texas members.

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

Please note:  The Highland Park and Southlake locations operate independently.  Each location sets its own pricing.  

Discount:  Velocity /Highland Park is offering HEART of Texas members a 10% discount on Home School PE and Athletic Training classes, 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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79.  HOME SCHOOL PE PROGRAMS AT VELOCITY  IN SOUTHLAKE

Velocity  in Southlake is Offering Home School PE Classes!

Velocity  Performance has designed a program to meet the needs of home school families!

Location:      1800 East Hwy 114, Suite 101
        Southlake, TX  

For More Information: Call 817-416-0606
Ask about their special home school pricing offers for HEART of Texas members.

Please note:  The Southlake and Highland Park locations operate independently.  Each location sets its own pricing.   

To Learn More About Velocity:  www.velocitysp.com/southlake

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

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

Discount:  Velocity /Southlake is offering HEART of Texas members a 10% discount on all training, whether it is with the Home School program, regular training program or any camps that are held at this location., 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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80.  HOME SCHOOL FENCING CLASSES AT FENCING INSTITUTE OF TEXAS

Fencing Institute of Texas is committed to supporting our Home Schooled children by providing physical fitness that challenges the mind as well as the body.  

Home School Classes
Times:      4:30 p.m. – 6 p.m. – Tuesdays and Thursdays
        10:00 a.m. – 11:30 am. – Saturdays

Instructor:  Coach Rhonda Trietsch

Students enjoy private lessons, group training, and mini-tournaments during this time.

Parents are welcome to participate along with their children in these programs.

Additional classes during the week between the hours of 10 AM and 4 PM will be added
as this program and need grows.  

Open Enrollment: Students may join this program at any time; the first month's fees are prorated.  There is no pro-ration of fees after the first month.  Fees are $90 per month plus $50 tuition ($140), and are due by the 5th of the month.  Fees are due in advance and are non-refundable.

Students may take additional private lessons outside of the class meeting time for an additional fee.

To Register: Class size is limited to 15 students; pre-registration is required.  If you are interested, please call our school at (972) 444-8498, or complete and mail or FAX the Home School Registration form.

To Download Registration Form: http://www.fenceintexas.org/homeschool.html

Discount:  Fencing Institute of Texas is offering HEART of Texas members a $10 discount off the monthly tuition (individual or family) with a valid Heart of Texas family membership card.   HEART of Texas students participating in the FIT Saturday Page or Squire programs receive a $5 discount off the monthly program fee with a valid Heart of Texas family membership card.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html

For More Information: 972-444-8498 or visit: http://www.fenceintexas.org/homeschool.html


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81.  PARKER-TARRANT HOME SCHOOL 

Parker-Tarrant Home School  exists to promote and accomplish  education for the Texas Home School student in a Christian environment. With a focus primarily in the Parker County and West Tarrant County areas of North Texas, the organization’s objective is to provide a competitive environment for middle school and high school  competition that is not normally provided by traditional home school organizations or support groups. PTHSS desires to accomplish this goal in a way that both works alongside the parents and honors Jesus Christ.

Currently the PTHSS organization offers boys' Varsity and Junior Varsity Baseball, boys' Basketball from middle school through high school, girls' high school basketball and girls' Varsity and Junior Varsity Volleyball. Six-Man boys' football is being added this fall! Other  programs and age divisions may be offered in the future.

Many of the PT Warriors athletic activities occur at Birchman Baptist Church in West Fort Worth.


For More Information:  click Here to email Corey Linscombe or
www.pthss.org/

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82.  POP-IN PLAYTIME AT PUMP-IT-UP OF GRAPEVINE

WEDNESDAYS AND THURSDAYS
Time:  Between 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Ages:  2-6 years old

WEDNESDAYS
Time:  Between 3:30 and 5:30 p.m.
Ages:  6-12 years old

Discount:  Pump-It-Up of Grapevine is offering HEART of Texas members a 10% discount on private parties. Members also receive $1 off Pop-In-Playtime on Wednesdays and Thursdays between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. for ages 2 through 6, and on Wednesdays from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 for ages 6-12.  

Members must present their valid HEART of Texas Family ID card to take advantage of these special offers.

To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html    

For More Information:  817-329-1332 or grapevine@pumpitupdfw.com


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83.  SMOOTHING THE WAY MEETINGS -- NORTH TEXAS

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

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


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84.  ARLINGTON ASSOCIATION HOME EDUCATORS (AAHE)

This group has no announcements this month.

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85.  COPPELL SPEECH & DEBATE CLUB

This group has no announcements this month.

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86.  DENTON COUNTY CHRISTIAN HOMESCHOOL ASSOCIATION

This group has no announcements this month.

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87.  FELLOWSHIP CHURCH HOMESCHOOL NETWORK

A support group for families in the Grapevine/Flowermound area.
Click Here for More Information

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88.  HOW NOW HOMESCHOOLING

This group has no announcements this month.

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89. LEWISVILLE AREA SPEECH & DEBATE CLUB

This group has no announcements this month.


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90. MATTHEW ROAD HOME SCHOOL GROUP

Matthew Road Home School Group in Grand Prairie has opened registration for Spring 2010 Co-op Classes.
MRHSG provides comprehensive support for local Christian home educators. E-group membership is free.

For More Information:  Click here for website or click here to email.

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91.  NORTH IRVING CHRISTIAN HOME EDUCATORS

No announcements this month.


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92.  PARK DAY DRAMA CLUB

This group has no announcements this month.

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93.  READY TO ANSWER SPEECH & DEBATE CLUB

This group has no announcements this month.
    

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94.  SALT EDUCATIONAL CO-OP CLASSES -- DeSOTO, TX

This group has no announcements this month.



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95.  HOMESCHOOLERS OFFERING MOMS ENCOURAGEMENT (HOME)

This group has no announcements this month.

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96.  OFFICIAL 2008 -2009 COLLEGE BOARD TEST DATES

2010 PSAT/NMSQT TEST DATES: TBA
(each school offers only one test date)
To Find out When Your Local High School is Offering the PSAT Test:  Click Here

PSAT TESTING FEE:  $13 (some schools charge an additional fee to cover administrative costs)
Homeschoolers who take the test at their local public school should not be charged more than the school charges its own students.  The College Board makes fee waivers available to schools for students in eleventh grade from low-income families who can't afford the test fee. See the school counselor for more information about fee waivers.

2009-2010 SAT TEST DATES:
JANUARY 23 (registration deadline December 23)
MARCH 13 (registration deadline February 4)
MAY 1 (registration deadline March 25)
JUNE 5 (registration deadline April 29)

For SAT Subject Test Calendar:  Click Here


For More Information: http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/sat/calenfees.html


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97.  MASTER THE SAT CLASSES WITH JEAN BURK

After hearing Jean Burk speak at the HEART of Texas Regional Homeschool College Night, people from all over Texas organized a “Master the SAT Class” in their city. If you are interested in a class for your student, please contact Jean Burk about organizing a class in your town.

What's Covered in Class:
"Master the SAT Class” is a thorough investigation of the SAT and PSAT including an extensive review of all three test sections: Critical Reading, Math, and Writing.

Testimonial:  A father put his younger son, Buddy, in one of my classes.  Buddy raised his SAT score 600 points and received a $200,000 scholarship from Brown. He is also the first student from SW Christian to go to an IVY League school.

For More Information:  www.collegeprepgenius.com


Discount:  College Prep Genius is offering a 10% discount to HEART of Texas family members.  You must have a valid membership card to qualify for the discount.

To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html
                     
 
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98.  BAYLOR & AIR FORCE ROTC (AFROTC) SCHOLARSHIP

Baylor and Air Force ROTC (AFROTC) have teamed up to provide an enormous scholarship opportunity to help students afford a Christian college education while pursuing their dream in a career in aviation, medicine, science, engineering, law, space, business, etc. 

DEADLINE:  DECEMBER 1, 2009

To Apply:  Visit www.afrotc.com and fill out the on-line application.


Highlights:

• We appreciate the homeschooled student and know first-hand the talent and intellect they offer.  Our Cadet Wing Commander last Fall was homeschooled and she was outstanding!
 
• Who do we want to help?  Your students interested in leadership who are about to graduate, applying to a service academy (Baylor would be a great Plan B), excels academically, involved in Eta Sigma Alpha or other honor societies and service organizations, as well as competitors of all kinds.
 
• The application deadline for AFROTC high school scholarships is December 1, 2008. 

• AFROTC’s best scholarship (Type 1) pays full tuition and fees (~$25,000/year at Baylor).
The second best scholarship (Type 2) pays $15,000/year. 
The majority of our cadets are on these two types of scholarships.

 
• Baylor is very generous with their merit scholarships which range from $3,000 - $14,000/year.  Have your student go to www.baylor.edu/admissions/calculator and input their ACT/SAT scores and class ranking into the Scholarship Calculator to see what they could be offered.  You will be amazed.
 
•  If your student receives an AFROTC high school scholarship and brings it to Baylor, they will receive the Baylor AFROTC Incentive Scholarship worth $3,000/year.  They get this just by simply bringing the AFROTC scholarship to Baylor!
 
•  Students on scholarship also receive $900/year for books and a monthly, tax-free stipend of $300-$500.  They can use this stipend however they like (cheeseburgers and coffee??).
 
•  A student with a high school scholarship can try AFROTC their freshman year, and if they decide not to continue, they can simply walk away without having to pay back their scholarship.  No kidding!
 
•  If your student does not receive a high school scholarship, there’s an even greater opportunity to receive an AFROTC scholarship once they are at Baylor.  AFROTC has a $60 million scholarship budget to award scholarships from and as of the end of the Spring 2008 semester, 86% of Baylor cadets were on scholarship.
 
•  Baylor AFROTC is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year (the Air Force is 61 years old) and for the first time in our history, we are opening an AFROTC Living & Learning Center where cadets have the option to live among themselves.  Visit www.baylor.edu/rotc/llc for more information.

•  If you would like to come for a visit, we have a “Bunk with a Bear” program where your students can spend the night with a cadet, attend classes, eat with them, meet other cadets, take the campus tour, talk to academic advisors, and get the feel of Baylor. 

For More Information:  Click here to email or call 254-710-3513.


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

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

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

For more information:  817.570.0612 or Click Here to email
                                  

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100.  BECOME A HOST FAMILY FOR A FOREIGN EXCHANGE STUDENT THROUGH INTO EdVENTURES HIGH SCHOOL EXCHANGE ORGANIZATION

Learn to Laugh in Another Language!

INTO EdVENTURES High School Exchange Organization offers you the opportunity to host a young high school student from another nation in your own home...let these incredible young people from other countries  show you their culture, up close and personal.  Welcome them as a son or daughter...touch their lives, and change their world, and your's too.  The experience will teach you and your children how another family lives across the world, while they, in turn, learn about you and the American culture...many of them love to cook and share themselves and their family with you.. They become part of your family for a lifetime.

Share your heart, your faith, your family and your home with a high school foreign exchange student. 

IF you have children at home, they can learn so much and make a life long friend.  If you do not have kids at home you will LOVE the new dimensions they will add to your life, and the new life they will give to your home.

There are boys and girls ages 15-18 from South america, Asia and Europe.  They bring their wide-eyed enthusiasm and a desire to learn our culture, and in turn share their's.

They will attend your local high school for the academic year.

IF THIS SPEAKS TO YOUR HEART...you can make a huge difference in a young person's life.  You will touch a nation, and change the world!!

All host families are volunteer
Who can become a Host Family:  
Young families with small children, families with teens, empty nesters, grand parents, even single parents!

Our host families must provide:  Room, Board, Food, and Transportation.  Host families
Must also be financially able take in another child.

The students have:  Full health insurance coverage and their own spending money ($200-$300/month, which takes care of personal things or extra things they want, and school activity expenses).  These will not have to be provided by the host family.

Student information:  Our students are boys and girls ranging in age from 15-18.  They are from South America, Asia, and Europe.   They arrive the third week of August, hopefully a week or two before school starts.

They will attend the LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL for either the ENTIRE ACADEMIC YEAR...OR ONE SEMESTER (either spring for fall)  

INTO EdVENTURES will share with the prospective host families the student's pictures & letters to the host family from the student and their parents...  

How are families and students matched:  We do our best to match common interests, etc.  And once a match is made, host families can begin communicating with their new "son/daughter"...usually, the student overseas emails as soon as they hear they have been placed with a family...  THEN, MEETING THEM AT THE AIRPORT IN AUGUST… IS AWESOME!!

For more information:  817-545-5058  or Click Here to email    


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101.  MEALS ON WHEELS, INC. OF TARRANT COUNTY SEEKS HOMESCHOOL FAMILIES TO DELIVER HOT MEALS AND FRIENDSHIP

Meals on Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County is a community based agency that provides meals to the homebound in Tarrant County. Delivering meals is a great community service as well as a unique learning opportunity, and we welcome students, along with adults, to be involved in the meal delivery.  Our clients depend on volunteers to deliver hot, nutritious meals along with care and compassion.

Several home school families currently volunteer for our program and we would like you to join us. 
Weekly and substitute volunteers are needed now. 
Meals are picked up from local distribution sites and delivered to homes within close proximity. 
Delivery typically takes about hour. 
If you join our volunteer team you will feel great ensuring that several Tarrant County neighbors
have received food and a friendly visit.


From a Homeschool Mom's Perspective - by Trudi L.
Benson (age 10) and I started delivering meals when he was two years old.   It's been a very rewarding experience.  We both have learned so much and met some really nice people along the way.  I incorporate our volunteer activities into our daily lessons.

Math:  We count the number of clients, meals, and milks on a route sheet; use a lot of addition and subtraction.

Reading and Spelling:  Letters and words are everywhere on a route sheet.

Science and Health:  We've learned about diabetes and good nutrition.  We also talk about different disabilities.

Social Studies/Geography: We interact with people from different socioeconomic groups.  as we deliver meals, we discuss surrounding terrain, lakes, rivers, and teh weather.  Map reading skills are also developed.

Community Service:  By providing hot, nutritious meals, we help a lot of people in our community.


For More Information:  817-336-0912


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102.  MEALS ON WHEELS OF JOHNSON & ELLIS COUNTIES SEEKS HOMESCHOOL FAMILIES TO DELIVER HOT MEALS

Volunteers Needed!!!
Meals-on-Wheels of Johnson and Ellis Counties serves the children of yesterday by helping needy elderly and disabled persons to remain independent and healthy in their own homes by providing home-delivered meals, daily personal contact, and support for individuals and their families. 

Meals-on-Wheels could not operate one day without the help of volunteers.  Dedicated, caring volunteers assist in providing hot, noontime meals.  Not only do our volunteers deliver nutritious meals, they also ensure the safety of our clients.  Daily contact is as important as the meals we serve. 

A meal route takes approximately 45 minutes to deliver with convenient pick-up sites located throughout each county.  By volunteering, you help bring hope, love, and friendship to the elderly and disabled homebound in your community. 

To Volunteer:  817-558-2840 or 972-351-9943.


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103.  VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO SERVE MEALS AT THE STEWPOT IN DALLAS

Is your family or support group looking for an opportunity to help the needy?

The Stewpot is a 501c(3) organization that reaches out to the homeless of Dallas by providing meals and other services.

The Stewpot serves 3 meals a day, every single day of the year.

To meet this great need, The Stewpot is seeking volunteers  (individuals or groups of 10-15) to serve a meal once a month.

For more information:  214-746-2785 ext. 320 or Click Here    


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104.  HOMESCHOOL RESOURCE DAY AT HOMESTEAD FARMSTEAD MUSEUM

JANUARY 15

Time:  
1p.m. - 3:00p.m
Location:  Homestead Farmstead Museum in Plano
Cost:  $5/person (registration postmarked before January 6)
          $7/person (postmarked after January 6)

Details:  Experience life on the North Texas Blackland Prairie at the turn of the century

    •    A lesson about school life at the turn-of-the-century-held in a one room schoolhouse
    •    A tour of the historic Farrell-Wilson house
    •    Explore four beautiful acres and 12 outbuildings and livestock
    •    Blacksmithing Demonstrations
    •    Make a Victorian Craft
    •    And so much more to learn about!

To Register:  
Click Here to download HFM Registration Form

This event will be held rain or shine, no refunds will bre given after the registration deadline.


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105.  SALLY CLARKSON'S MOM HEART CONFERENCE IN IRVING, TEXAS

FEBRUARY 26-27

Theme:  
You...Renewed!

Location:  
Dallas Marriott Las Colinas
223 West Las Colinas Blvd, Irving, TX  75039

A two-day hotel conference and getaway designed especially for Christian mothers. Sally will strenthen and encourage your heart to rise to the task of raising wholehearted children for Christ at home. Elizabeth Smith and Sarah Clarkson will share heart-renewing messages, and a special Panel Discussion will discuss the Mom Heart Ministry vision. The conference includes practical workshops, inspirational worship, a seated banquet luncheon, book tables, and more.

Conference Schedule (subject to change)
FRIDAY  
1:00-3:00: registration and booktable
3:00-5:15: workshops (3:00, Sarah; 4:15, Elizabeth)
7:00-9:30: Session 1 (Message, Sally)
SATURDAY
8:30-11:30: Session 2 (Message, Sally; Message, Elizabeth)
12:15-1:30: Seated banquet lunch
2:00-4:30: Session 3 (Panel discussion; Message, Sally)
5:00: Conference ends

Registration:  
$89.00 if Registered by January 29
$99 if Registered After January 29

Special Gift Exclusively for HEART of Texas Members:
HEART of Texas Members with valid family ID can receive a free gift book.  You must show
your Member ID at the conference to receive your book.  Mention that you are a HEART of Texas
member when you register so they will know how many books to bring to the conference.
To learn more about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here


To Register Online: Click Here
To Register By Phone:  888-488-4466
All registrations must be made either online (best way), or by phone (Mon-Thurs, 9:00am-3:30pm MDT), and paid in full either by a credit/debit card (Visa/MasterCard/Discover) or by a check draft (with bank routing and account numbers).

Register early to insure attendance, room selection, and rate availability.

Refunds:  Refunds prior to Early Registration deadline will be subject to a $20.00 administrative fee.
Refunds after Early Registration ends will be subject to a 50% cancellation fee.
No refunds for cancellations after February 6. Registration transfers are allowed free of charge, but are the responsibility of the registrant. If unable to attend, the full amount may be receipted as a tax-deductible donation upon the request of the registrant prior to the event. A pre-conference information letter will be mailed to all registered guests approximately two weeks prior to the conference.

Restrictions: There are just a few necessary registration restrictions. We appreciate your understanding.
1) Children: Mobile babies or children are not allowed in the ballroom. To be fair to all, we cannot make exceptions to this rule, either before or during the conferences.
2) Nursing Mothers: For mothers with infants (“lap babies” only, no crawlers), special seating near an exit and a nursing mothers area will be provided. If you have a nursing infant, we encourage you to consider bringing a family member or friend to watch your baby so you can enjoy the sessions without distraction.
3) Daughters: The minimum registration age is 14. Please be sensitive to the maturity of your child around other adults if you wish to register a daughter. Thank you.

Hotel Information:
After you have registered for a conference, be sure to call the hotel and reserve a room.
Ask for the “Mom Heart Conference” discounted room rate when you call to make your reservation, available Thursday through Sunday of the Conference weekend. Room reservations must be guaranteed with a credit card, but may be cancelled without penalty up to 24 hours prior to check-in.
Although we have blocked sufficient rooms based on prior reservation patterns, we cannot always guarantee availability of a room at the special conference low rates.

Dallas Marriott Las Colinas
Reservations: 972-831-0000 (Hotel) or 800-228-9290 (Marriott)
Conference room rate: $83/night flat rate (plus state/local taxes)
Room Rate Cut-off Date: February 12 (subject to availability after 02/12)
Hotel website: http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/dalcl-dallas-marriott-las-colinas/
You are responsible for making your own hotel reservation. Conference registration does not include the cost of a hotel room. Parking is free at the hotel if you are driving. For airport shuttle information from DFW International Airport, check with the hotel.
 
Ministry Information
Whole Heart Ministries is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) Christian ministry dedicated to equipping and encouraging Christian parents to build a biblical home and a godly heritage by nurturing, discipling and educating their children at home. Proceeds from conference registrations accrue entirely and only to WHM, a faith ministry dependent in part on the contributions of friends who share the Clarkson's hearts for ministering to Christian parents and their children. Registration fees for attending this event are not tax-deductible.


Additional Information
Since 1998, this has been the WholeHearted Mother Conference. But this year, it is something new…it is now a Mom Heart Conference. This year marks the official start of a new ministry to mothers to encourage them to renew their hearts for biblical motherhood. I’m not starting over in my ministry to moms, but I’m keeping going with a renewed purpose and vision. My beliefs and convictions have not changed, but the culture around me is changing by the day. In the midst of that change, Mom Heart Ministry is a renewed vision of my spirit for helping mothers.

Every day, I hear from precious women all around the world who know the Lord, and are committed to serving him in their homes, but they are weary in the work of being a mother. They have no intention of giving up, but they need something more to keep going. I hear in their voices and words the need for a renewed sense of the Lord’s work in the midst of their lives. If that’s you, I want you to know this year that God wants you to be renewed in him…he wants to do “new things” (Isaiah 42:9) in and through you. He wants “You…Renewed!” in your habits, heart, home, and hope. That’s my message to you this year.

What to Expect:
Warm Fellowship with Mothers -- You need to be with other wholehearted mothers like you! You need to be able to laugh and cry and shout and sigh about the same experiences. At this conference, you’ll be refreshed, revived and restored by being around other moms who want the same thing for their children that you want for yours. Come enjoy the pleasure of being away in a lovely hotel for the weekend with friends, and be spiritually encouraged, too. It’s a getaway just for you. Join us!
Spiritually Encouraging Program -- The weekend away for a Mom Heart Conference is also filled with inspirational worship. Friday afternoon seminars will offer practical help and encouragement for mothering and parenting skills. There will also be a Whole Heart booktable filled with carefully selected titles to encourage and equip you as a mother.
Faith-Building Messages
Sally Clarkson will speak on:
--Renewing Your Habits: Learning How to Be at Home with God (Session 1, Friday evening)
--Renewing Your Heart: Loving the Lord with All Your Heart (Session 1, Friday evening)
--Renewing Your Home: Living as a Life-giving Mother (Session 2, Saturday morning)
--Renewing Your Hope: Longing for the Living God (Session 3, Saturday afternoon)

Elizabeth Smith will speak on:
--Mothers Who Pray, A God Who Answers: Tapping into God's Love and Power for Your Family

Sarah Clarkson will speak on:
--Read for the Heart: The Lifegiving Power of Stories, Books, and Reading


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106.  TEENPACT CAPITOL CLASSES IN APRIL 2010

TeenPact State Capitol Class trains student statesmen to impact their world for Jesus Christ and brings Texas government to life!

From a thoroughly Christian worldview in an atmosphere that promotes godly leadership, TeenPact sponsors a four-day, "hands-on" state government class for teens and a one-day seminar for 8-12 year olds.   Your student will have more fun than they dreamed possible at the state capitol as they maneuver their own bills through a mock legislature, participate in the election process, interview elected officials and lobbyists, analyze the legislature in session, examine legislators' financial records, pray for public servants, and enjoy fellowship with like-minded students from all across Texas.   TeenPact is dedicated to high standards of behavior and encourages parental involvement.  

Most importantly, students leave TeenPact equipped, inspired, and challenged with an intense desire to impact their world for God's glory through citizenship and statesmanship!

Parents of registered students can attend State Class FREE!

2010 Classes held in Austin Texas:
APRIL 12-15
 or  APRIL 19-22 -- Four-Day Classes
Ages:  13-19
Time:  Mon: 1pm-5pm;  Tues - Thurs: 8:45am-3pm
Cost:  $220 (First Time Student); $180 (Returning Student)
Residential Camp:  3-Nights: $120;  4-Nights: $160
(camp fees include breakfasts and dinners)

APRIL 16 or APRIL 23
-- Public Speaking Workshop
Ages: 13-19
Time:  10am-4pm
Cost:  $50 ($35 w/4-day class purchase)

APRIL 16 or APRIL 23 -- One-Day Class
Ages: 8-12
Time: 10am-4pm
Cost:  $40 (first child); $30 (siblings)
(admission is first-come first-served)

To Register for TeenPact:
Click Here
For Other Details (What to Bring, Where to Meet, Housing, Meals, Transportation, etc): Click Here

Parents Needed to Chaperone and transport students to and from the capitol!  
If you would like to help, call
830-643-4563 or click here to send an email.

Residential Camp:  Students can stay with TeenPact leadership and staff at Twin Oaks Ranch, a Christian camp/retreat center in Buda, about 17 miles southwest of Austin in a beautiful wooded setting. Students and parent-chaperones will stay in dormitory-style rooms with separate facilities for boys and girls. The TeenPact Guest Director, State Coordinating Team, and Staff will be on duty at all times to serve the students and parents.  Students will be transported to and from the capitol by adults.  After the students leave the capitol, they will enjoy afternoon fellowship and recreation at the camp, including canoeing, volleyball, Ultimate Frisbee and more! It is a great time to make lasting friendships from all over the state! The evening sessions will consist of praise, worship, and convicting speakers that will encourage the students to make an impact on their nation for Christ.
Cost for the residential camp: $120 for 3 nights and 6 meals, and for those students who will be attending the Public Speaking class on Friday, the cost will be $155 for 4 nights and 8 meals. Breakfasts and dinners are included in the cost of the camp.

Discounts and Specials (More than one discount may apply!)
Discounts are available only via online registration and do not apply to residential camp housing fees.

One Day Class Discounts:
    Register 60 days before your class: $5
    Get a group of 10 or more first-time students: $5 off per student.
    Register a sibling:  $10 off their registration.  (Sibling discount valid for One-Day students only)
Four Day Class Discounts:
    Register 60 days before your class: $15 off
    Returning students:  $40 off.
Presidential Discount: 
$15 Discount if you have done any of the following:

    • attended a Worldview Academy camp in 2009
    • been an officer for a Generation Joshua Club in 2009 or 2010
    • got elected in 2009 at your state class
    • participated in any kind of speech and/or debate in 2009
Four Day Class Group Discounts: 
    Get a group of 10 or more first-time students to register: $20 off per student.
    Get a group of 20 or more first-time students to register:  $30 off per student.

Cancellation/Refund Policy:
You may cancel your event registration at any time and we will refund all tuition costs up until two weeks before the event.  After that we will refund all but the $75 deposit.  To cancel your registration, you must phone the TeenPact Office at 1-888-343-1776.

To view a promotional video about the state class:  Click Here


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107.  CHECK-IN RECEPTIONIST, CHECK-OUT RECEPTIONIST & TECHNICIAN

A DeSoto area Ophthalmologist's office has the following openings for students looking for a job experience.  Positions will be unpaid initially, but could lead to a permanent part or full time employment annd certification as an opthalmic technician.  Students will go through a hiring interview and positive attitude will be a big factor in the selection process.  Hours are flexible, but dependability is essential.

Parents are welcome to visit the office and meet the doctor to be comfortable and feel safe with the environment.

Check-in Receptionist:
Answer the phone
Input patient data into computer system and paper files
Prepare paperwork for patient arrivals
Call patients the day before their next visit to remind them of that appointment.
Keep paper and electronic schedules updated
Cover check-out's position during their lunch break
Other duties as required
 
Check-out Receptionist:
Answer the phone
Fax exam reports
Collect and record payments
Cover check-in's position during their lunch break
Assist check-in as needed
Other duties as required
 
Technician:
Taking patients through a general exam
Recording info in chart
Basic care of equipment
Keep exam room supplies stocked
Call to check on post-operation patients
Other duties as required


For More Information:  Bill Purcell at 214-549-8676



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108.  GREAT OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS . . . AT PUMP IT UP

Pump It Up of Grapevine is seeking "cast members"  to work with kids in a fun, safe, clean environment.

We have very flexible schedules and have many home school students in our current cast.
If you know of outgoing, fun, warm-hearted young people who seek a great place to learn and earn .... tell them to stop by for a Cast Member Application.
 
Contact:     
General Manager
850 Mustang Drive
Grapevine, TX

817-329-1332

Website:     
http://www.pumpitupparty.com/StoreHome.aspx?StoreID=63&PageName-StoreHome.aspx
 
 
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If you enjoy this newsletter, please consider becoming a member supporter!  For $25 a year, your family can receive all of the benefits of membership, including $15 off THSC annual membership, discounts at various area homeschool stores, Velocity in Southlake and Highland Park, and other organizations that have partnered with us.  

Support groups can also partner with us for just $25/year, which includes a FREE HEART of Texas family membership for the primary leader of the group. Board Members of Partnering Support Groups will also receive a discounted rate to our annual Leadership Conference.  

To learn more about becoming a member supporter:  www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html 
To view our growing list of partners:  www.heartoftex.org/partners/partners.html

This newsletter is free to any and all homeschool families and support group leaders who wish to receive it!

HEART of Texas     P.O. Box 211882    Bedford, TX  76095-1882    www.heartoftex.org    
To subscribe:  Visit www.heartoftex.org  Scroll to the bottom of the page and enter email address in newsletter field.
To unsubscribe, go to: www.heartoftex.org/unsubscribe/unsubscribe.html