Free Long Struts from ZOME!

Zome is replacing their long struts with super-short struts in order to "downsize" their kits. All lengths of Zometool struts will still be compatible. However, if you like the long struts, stock up now, because they're giving them away: you can get 1 lb. of long blue, yellow, red, half green or half blue struts FREE with every $25 worth of Zometool you order between now and 8/31/07. After that, long struts will be available by special order only... for a price!

To get your free long struts, just order at least $25 worth of Zometool before the end of the month (like a big bag of Rainbow Zome Balls!) Then go to Parts by the Pound and pick out a pound of long blues, yellows, reds, half greens or half blues for each $25 worth of Zometool you order. When you check out, enter the coupon code FREEPARTS, and you'll get a 100% discount on those parts.

Offer extended through Labor Day, 2007!

Eiffel Icosa

Check out the largest space frame structure ever built in Zome Space. Some 20 volunteers, using 17,464 parts, built this stunning model during the last week of July in Spain.

The Zome scrapbook article has loads of photos, sketches, history, and human interest. I loved looking over the historical photos of engineering feats like the Eiffel Tower, built for the 1889 Paris Universal Exposition, and the Ferris Wheel, constructed in Chicago, 1893. And the Final Zome construction is awesome. Click here to see and read all about this remarkable project.

Correction to start date for homeschool classes at the Brandywine Y

Correction:
The homeschool gym class offered at the Brandywine YMCA in Wilmington will begin on September 5th not September 15th. The date was incorrectly published in their brochure and their online site. For more information about this and other homeschooling classes at the Brandywine YMCA see the previous post in Homeschool Happenings!

What's The Big Idea? Science and Math Unit Studies In a Box! Available at the Library!

Wow! I noticed these kits on display at the Brandywine Hundred Library!

What's The Big Idea is a pilot program with the Vermont Center of the Book's Mother Goose Programs and the Delaware Public Library System. This program was underwritten by the National Science Foundation in an effort to bring Science and Math into the Library for Young Children.

These mini unit studies are wonderfully suited for those preschool years, ages 3+ to 5. The kits are not suitable for children 3 and under because they contain small parts.

Several Libraries in Delaware now carry these kits. If your library doesn't you the kits may be requested through the library system. New Castle, Sussex and Kent Counties are participating. This is a national program so the kits may also be available in libraries outside Delaware, call your local library.



The Brandywine Hundred Library has several boxes of each of a dozen topics; Building, Counting 1 2 3, Collecting and Sorting, Construction, Exploring Weather, Growing, Making Sets, Part-Part Whole, Number Patterns, Shadows and Recognizing Different and Same.





Each kit contains a picture book, a mini manual and materials to explore. For example the Part-Part Whole Kit includes the book "How Do You Count a Dozen Ducks," a mini manual and 100 snap blocks. The Exploring Weather Kit contains a rain meter and a couple thermometers and The Recognizing Same and Different kit contains a collection of items to sort.

You can check these kits out, one kit at a time, for three weeks, just like you would check out a book. So, check it out!

What's The Big Idea website

Total Lunar Eclipse

A total lunar eclipse will be visible in North American during the early morning hours this Tuesday, August 28th at about 4 a.m. Read more about this event on the Earth and Sky Website.
And if you can, get outside and see for yourself! The eclipse will not be fully visible to those of use on the east coast but if the night is clear it will still be worth the early rise!


Earth & Sky article about the eclipse

Apprenticeship and Craftsmanship Game: Winterthur Museum and Country Estate

Did you know that most museums have free interactive educational games that you can access online? These games are great for preparing your students for a visit or following up on a recent visit to a particular museum.

If you cannot make it the museum these games can be a great way to get a peek at a museum's collection. These games can also be very useful tools for enhancing a curriculum unit.

One example is the interactive story/game on the web site of the Winterthur Museum and Country Estate. This interactive game highlights pieces in their collection and puts the player into a story about apprenticeship and craftsmanship in the late 1800s.

This game, which teaches about pieces in their collection within a historical context, would make a nice supplement to a history unit appropriate. This game requires reading and is appropriate for ages 9 and up.

To access the game you need to go to the Especially for Families Page on their website, then scroll down to find the link for the game.

Winterthur Museum Game


Images above are from the Museum's Apprenticeship and Craftsmanship online game.

Child's Garden of Verses a Family Event at Winterthur

Winterthur Museum & Country Estate

Child's Garden of Verses Family Event
September 16, 2007
10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Enchanted Woods will be transformed into a “Child’s Garden of Verses” to celebrate children’s literacy through the books of acclaimed author Jane Yolen. Several activity stations throughout the three-acre children’s garden will each have a theme based on a Jane Yolen book, including treasured favorites like Owl Moon; Child of Faerie, Child of Earth; Shape Me a Rhyme, All in the Woodland Early, and Fine Feathered Friends. Families are encouraged to pack a picnic to enjoy. The event takes place on the final day of GardenFair.
Included with GardenFair admission.
Adults, $15,
Members, free.
Children under 12 are free but need a wristband.

Sunflower Image: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

K is for Kids: A Family Day at Winterthur

K is for Kids: a Family Day
September 29, 2007
10 am - 3 pm
Families are invited to this fun-filled day all about reading and writing! Share the “Glory of Stories” with the Delaware Art Museum, meet Mother Goose, sign up for a New Castle County library card, make alphabet crafts, and read stories to service animals. Visitors who bring in a new or used children’s book receive $3 off admission.
Included with all admission tickets. Members, free.

K is for Kids Exhibit
East Gallery
September 15, 2007-July 13, 2008
Don’t miss this alphabetical introduction to Winterthur’s diverse collection of decorative art objects. This family-friendly exhibition explores intriguing objects in the Winterthur collection and studies early methods of reading education. For visitors of all ages!

Jane Yolen, the acclaimed children’s book author, poet, novelist and storyteller, will serve as the Honorary Ambassador of the exhibition, and will be at Winterthur for a weekend series of special events on April 18-20, 2008. This exhibition is made possible by the generous support of: DuPont; the Max and Victoria Dreyfus Founation Inc; Mrs. Patrick Healy III; the F. M. Kirby Foundation; the Laffey-McHugh Foundatio; and Potter, Anderson & Corroon LLP.

Winterthur Museum and Country Estate is located on Route 52 between I95 and Route 1.
Adults,$15, students/seniors (age 62+), $13, children ages 2-11, $5.

For more information

Delaware Art Museum: Two Fabulous Programs Just for Homeschoolers!

I am really excited about these programs!

The tour program is for our often overlooked teens and tweens! Courtney, Saralyn and I have been talking for months now coming up with this program to give our students the vocabulary and tools necessary to meaningfully approach and understand the artwork they encounter in the world. This is not just a series of tours but a series of lessons building on each other and paving the way to a life time of love and appreciation of art...

Glory of Stories is broken up into two age groups, 4-6 and 7-9 and because of the overwhelming demand for this popular program they are now offering it at two different time!

* HOMESCHOOL TOUR PROGRAM
Especially designed to meet the needs of homeschool students and their families, the Delaware Art Museum’s homeschool tour program offers students a wonderful art education experience! Students will build their vocabulary for looking at art, explore various artists and art movements, and develop an understanding of the Museum’s collection and special exhibitions. Students may choose to participate in select tour dates or attend the entire series. Maximum 20 students per tour. Program registration is first-come, first-served. Participants must register and pre-pay by mail. No refunds.

WHEN: Tuesdays, September 18-October 16, 2007 (5 weeks)
TIME: 9:30 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.
AGES: 10 and up
COST PER TOUR: $4 per child / parents and guardians are free.

Sept. 18: Learning to Look: Building a Visual Vocabulary
Sept. 25: The Artist’s Language—Elements of Art
Oct. 2: Painting with Words—Writing and Art
Oct. 9: Face to Face—A Study in Portraiture
Oct. 16: What do you see? Looking at Abstract Art

For more information, contact Courtney Waring, Director of Education, at 302-571-9590 ext. 509 or cwaring@delart.org.

* GLORY OF STORIES FOR HOMESCHOOLERS
The Delaware Art Museum’s popular public program, Glory of Stories, is now available at a special time for homeschool families. Every Friday for 8 weeks, Museum Staff and Docents will present story readings related to the Museum’s permanent collection. A discussion of related works of art and a hands-on art project will follow the reading. Kids will build a foundation for visual arts, as well as hone their observation skills through storytelling and art. In addition, kids will develop an understanding of the Museum’s collection and special exhibitions.

Join us as we kick off the first session learning about the Elements of Art. Kids will learn everything from the primary colors to light and shadow. Registration begins Monday, August 20th. Space is limited. Registrations are accepted on a first-come, first served basis. Participants must register and prepay by mail. No refunds.

THEME: Elements of Art
WHEN: Fridays, September 14-November 2 2007 (8 weeks)
TIME: 9:30 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.
NEW: A second time added! Also offered at 2:00pm-3:15 p.m.
AGE GROUPS: 4-6 years & 7-9 years
COST: $18 per child / parents and guardians are free

For more information, contact Saralyn Rosenfield, Family Programs Manager, at 302-571-9590 ext. 504 or at srosenfield@delart.org.

Home School Praise Chorus

Home School Praise Chorus is dedicated to the glory of God and the musical instruction of home schooled children. The chorus is open to all home schooled children ages 7 and up. It is necessary for the choir and the child that they are already strong readers (2nd grade) when joining. Interviews will be held for each member (old & new) to allow the director, Regina Ontjes, to meet each child and assess their strengths. This will take place on Sept 4th & 5th from 1:00-4:00p.m. at Brandywine Valley Baptist Church. There is a possibility that a child is not yet ready and will be placed “on hold” for a semester after which time they would again meet with the director.

The chorus performs sacred, classical, traditional and patriotic chorus music. The chorus meets at the Brandywine Valley Baptist Church on Mt. Lebanon Road, Wilmington DE next to the YMCA.

It is now time to register your child for the Fall Session. The cost will be $40.00 per child.

Rehearsals will be held on Tuesdays, 3:15 to 4:30, starting date September 11th.

The chorus will hold a Family Concert Thursday November 29th and service concerts will be scheduled in the weeks following the family concert. If your child will be unable to attend any of these concerts please notify Regina immediately as she needs this information when assigning parts.

Please bring an accordion type file with sides (or something similar) for music the first day of practice. Please do not bring a pocket folder as the music tends to fall out of these easily.

If any questions, call Jennifer Robinson at 302-477-1121 or email at jrobin63@verizon.net

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Name___________________________________________ M___ F___ Birth Date_______________________

Name___________________________________________ M___ F___ Birth Date_______________________

Name___________________________________________ M___ F___ Birth Date_______________________

Name___________________________________________ M___ F___ Birth Date_______________________


Parent(s)Name(s)___________________________________________________________________________


Address__________________________________________ Telephone________________________________

__________________________________________*Email____________________________________
*Very important—all communications are done through emails

Please list any instruments your child(ren) may play as prelude or other performance opportunities may be available during the concert__________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________

Send a registration form and check made out to:
Jennifer Robinson 1240 Faun Road Wilmington DE 19803

Ashland Nature Center: Fall Homeschooler's Series and an Overnight!

~ Fall 2007 Homeschool Programs ~

Programs are designed to meet state and national standards and are appropriate for students of all ages. If you are a homeshool parent or organizer and are interested in programs for older students or topics that are not covered in our fall offerings, please contact David Pragoff, School Program Coordinator at 302-239-2334, ext.133 or davidp@delawarenaturesociety.org to request a copy of our School Program Brochure.

Advance registration for all programs is required.
October Home School Overnight, Oct. 30 – 31, 2007
Join other homeschoolers this Halloween Eve. Programs include Skulls & Skeletons, Spider and Snake Biology, Owls of Delaware with owl pellet dissection, Evening program with a Reptile Quiz Show, night hike, and campfire. Price is $35 per student. Minimum 15 students. One adult per family should plan to accompany their child. (No charge for adults)

For information or to make a reservation, contact Judy Montgomery, Overnight and Outreach Coordinator at 302-239-2334, ext #127; or contact judym@delawarenaturesociety.org.


Fall Home School Field Trip Series
The cost for each program is $7 per student.

Homeschool Series #1 ~ Reading the Forest at Flint Woods Preserve
Course #: to be determined
Date: September 21st
Time: 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm
Led by: DNS Staff
Hike along trails and historical roads at Flint Woods Preserve. Experience the smells, sights, and sounds of the forest and record observations. Identify and classify trees, stages of forest growth, and compare vertical forest layers. Program meets at the Flint Woods Preserve. Contact Ashland Nature Center for directions.

Homeschool Series #2~ Habitats & Ecosystems
Course #: to be determined
Date: October 5th
Time: 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm
Led by: DNS Staff
Explore forest, meadow, and stream habitats to determine which ecosystem has the greatest diversity of living things. Search for producers, consumers and decomposers and collect data on the non-living factors of the system. Using your data as evidence, determine which of the habitats was the most diverse and develop statements explaining why. Program meets at the Ashland Nature Center.

Homeschool Series #3 ~ Colonial Farm
Course #: to be determined
Date: October 19th
Time: 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm
Led by: DNS Staff
Discover farm life as a child in colonial Delaware. Turn cream to butter after learning how cows turn grass to milk. Prepare corn from field to flour and explore the old fashioned refrigerator made of stone! Program meets at the Coverdale Farm.


Homeschool Series #4 ~ Stream Ecology
Course #: to be determined
Date: November 2nd
Time: 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm
Led by: DNS Staff
Determine a stream’s health by examining its biological, chemical, and physical attributes. Catch and classify stream macro-invertebrates, and use test kits to record pH and dissolved oxygen. Discuss how humans and wildlife impact stream health and identify four basic types of stream pollution. Program meets at the Ashland Nature Center.


Homeschool Series #5 ~ Delaware’s Native Americans – The Lenni Lenape
Course #: to be determined
Date: November 16th
Time: 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm
Led by: DNS Staff
Explore the culture and customs of the early inhabitants of Delaware. Take an interpretive walk to discover pre-colonial Delaware history. Learn how Native Americans used nature to meet everyday needs and visit a replica wigwam for a hands-on experience with tools, animal furs and hides, clothing and musical instruments. Program meets at the Ashland Nature Center.

Note from Connie:
My kids, ages 8 & 12, did the homeschool program at Ashland last year and loved it!
This year's programs sound wonderful! The people at Ashland have lots of experience running these sorts of programs for schools, families, children and adults. The also run a fabulous summer camp. The facilities are beautiful - a real treasure!

I am always concerned about the quality and appropriateness of these sorts of programs for the older students. The leaders at Ashland are really great about gearing their programs up or down and breaking off into age appropriate groups depending upon the ages of the students attending. I will be registering both my kids for all of these, they can't wait!

Ashland Nature Center is located in Hockessin, DE.
Their web site: www.delawarenaturesociety.org

Classes for Homeschoolers at the Brandywine Y!

Two art classes and a PE class designed especially for homeschoolers at the Brandywine YMCA in North Wilmington!

Preschool Art and Crafts
ages 4-6
An hour of creative art and craft projects for your younger children. Different projects each sessions. A fun class! Meets on the same day and time as the Art Class for older children for your convenience. Basic supplies included. Class limit 10.
Wednesday from 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
8 weeks - Full members $54, Program & Public $62 Session I #04430-01 Session II #04430-02

Art Class
ages 7-13
A very special art class! Over the course of the school year students will have the opportunity to express themselves creatively using pencil, charcoal, pastel, paint, and clay. Basic art sills will be introduced as well as some fun projects that incorporate these skills. A complete will rounded art program! Basic supplies are provided. There may be a small material fee for special projects. Class limit 10.
Wednesdays from 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Session I #04432-01 Session II#04432-02
Wednesdays from 2:15 - 3:15 p.m.
Session I - 8 weeks #04432-03 Session II - 8 weeks #04432-04
Full members $54, Program & Public $62

Home School Physical Education
Boys and Girls ages 6 - 12 years
A basic elementary school PE program. This class is designed to run for a regular school year following the Brandywine YMCA sessions. Different activities will be introduced during the year. Come join us for fun and rewarding physical activity! Please register in advance.
Wednesdays from 11:50 - 12:50 p.m.
Session I - 8 weeks #01807-01
Full members $52, Program & Public $60
Session II - 7 weeks #01807-02
Full members $46, Program & Public $53

It is my understanding as a homeschooler, you do not need to be a member.
Non-member Homeschoolers may register at the program/public price.

IMPORTANT:
Registration begins Monday August 20th for full members, Monday August 27th for program members and public registration.

Any questions may be directed to Amy Jimison at the Y.
Phone: 302-478-YMCA

The Brandwine Y is located in North Wilmington, 3 Mount Lebanon Road, just off Concord Pike.
Web Site

Academy of Natural Sciences: Homeschool Days!

The Academy of Natural Sciences

Below are details of two "Homeschool Days" at The Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia. Registration will begin August 13, 2007.

There is also a wonderful volunteer opportunity for homeschool teens!

October 16th, 2007: Weather or Not!

What happens in the fall to the plants and animals in our area? How do species adapt to changes in weather and seasons? Younger students will investigate what causes seasons and weather patterns. They will also compare and contrast the needs of humans as the temperature changes with the needs of species that live in the wild. Older students will investigate the global climate change phenomenon by performing experiments, interpreting graphs, discussing and evaluating data and participating in role-playing activities to understand this important topic.

November 15th, 2007: All in a Day’s Work:

Did you know that wild animals have jobs as well as humans? Younger students will learn what it takes for animals to hold their jobs in nature, such as predator, prey, scavenger, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, diurnal, nocturnal etc. Older students will explore what it takes to become a member of the science community by meeting staff who work here at The Academy of Natural Sciences. The Academy of Natural Sciences has been a leader in the study of the natural world for almost 200 years. Botanists, science teachers, paleontologists and animal keepers are just some of the people who work here at this fantastic institution and older students will get the opportunity to perform some of the tasks that these folks do every day.

Registration will begin August 13, 2007.
No reservations will be taken before this date.

Home school programs at the Academy accommodate children ages 3-14. Each program is a 1/2 day experience and students participate in sessions and activities appropriate for their age group.

Online Registration and additional information:
The Academy of Natural Science

Or you may call: 215-299-1060

Outside-In Opportunities for Home Schooled Teens:

Volunteers are needed in Outside-In. This hands-on children's nature museum offers teen homeschoolers a great opportunity to enhance their study of all sorts of biological and environmental topics. A desire to work with live animals and engage visitors of all ages is key. Minimum age is 14.

Click here for more information about volunteering,

or contact Lois Kuter, Volunteer Coordinator at 215 299-1029 or kuter@ansp.org

Wayne Art Center: Art History and Writing Classes for Homeschoolers

CLASSES FOR HOMESCHOOL STUDENTS
Fall 2007

Located in the Main Line suburbs of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the Wayne Art Center offers instruction for all ages in the visual arts, crafts, music and drama. Their gallery presents several exhibits each year, highlighting local, regional and national artists.

Art History and Exploration
Amy Grant
1:00 – 3:00 pm
Tuesdays, September 25 – November 26
10 weeks $100
Ages 7 and up. In this class, study the history of art starting with the cave painters. Each class will focus on a different period of art, and will include a discussion of history of the time, famous artists, their materials, methods and artwork and maybe even the science behind some of their work. Homeschoolers will complete an art project each class in the style of the period covered. Instruction in drawing, painting, ceramics and sculpture will be covered. This course will continue throughout the winter/spring and will progress chronologically to the modern day.

Writers Workshop
Kathy Hubbard
Thursdays, September 27 – December 6
1:00 – 3:00 pm $100
Ages 8 and up. Creative Writing is fun teaches children the importance of spelling, grammar and sentence construction. Each class will begin with the reading of exemplary children’s literature to allow the students to hear good writing while opening up their imaginations. Using this literature as a guide, students will learn about the mechanics of writing through the creation, development and revision of his or her own short stories. During the fall session, children will have the opportunity to create their own fairy tale, and write a biographical story. For a final project, students will choose, revise and then illustrate her or his best work to be part of our class “literary journal”.
Looking ahead: This class will continue in our winter session when we will focus on poetry.

For registration information, please call 610-688-3553, x200.

Wayne Art Center is conveniently located off the Blue Route (476), St. Davids exit.

Wayne Art Center
413 Maplewood Avenue
Wayne, PA 19087

BIKE AND HIKE AT HAGLEY!

BIKE AND HIKE AT HAGLEY!
Wednesdays - 5 to 8 p.m
July 11 through August 29th.
Visitors are welcome to bike along the Brandywine River, hike around the museum’s history, or simply enjoy an outdoor evening excursion to Hagley. These evenings are perfect for picnics too. Admission is $2 per person. Use Hagley’s main entrance off Route 141 in Wilmington, Delaware.

Hagley Museum and Library

Zome: August Model of the Month

Queen Bee

This intriguing model was created by Ethan Smythe, a Davidson Institute Young Scholar. Queen Bee is made of 5 spirals of short yellows joined by 5 spirals of medium reds, Queen Bee echos a number of natural forms, like a bee hive or a pineapple.

Be sure to check it out. We highly recommend Zome. This product is a gem! There is curriculum support for using Zome in both math and science subject areas. Their web site contains tons of model plans and project ideas as well as frequent special price offerings. Most importantly, Zome is tons of building fun!

Pioneer kits for $13.95
The Pioneer kit is a great introduction to the power of Zometool: explore crazy bubbles, the tetra challenge, shadows from the 4th dimension, and much more. Includes a balanced inventory of 121 parts and a full-color 24-page manual. This special price offer expires 8/31/07.

Family Nights on the River!

The Wilmington Riverfront: Bring the kids for ice cream on the river taxi, every Tuesday night. Board at any shuttle stop between 5 and 8 p.m. and enjoy Molly’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream while riding on the river. Listen to Captain Lionel Hynson's tour of historical sites along the way.

Boarding locations:
Shipyard Shops
Conley Ward’s Steakhouse
Riverfront Market
Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park
Kalmar Nyckel Shipyard
Up the Creek Restaurant

$3 per person (regular round-trip fare)
Plus your ice cream purchase.

For more information call 302-425-4890.

Riverfront Wilminton Website
Riverfron Wilminton - River Taxi

Perseids Meteor Shower: Potentially Brilliant Sky Show This Weekend!

The streaking fire balls from the Perseids meteor shower should be visible from Sunday Night through Monday. As many as 60 meteors and hour should appear during the peak viewing hours, sometime after 4:30am Sunday Morning.

Brandywine Creek State Park is sponsoring a star gazers event. The park will open at 4am. The gates will close again promptly at 4:30 am so that the headlights from cars will not spoil the view! If you go plan to bring a lawn chair or blanket. No telescopes or binoculars are necessary because the best way to watch a meteor shower is with your naked eye!

What might you expect to see? Some meteors appear as a momentary flash of light while others are brighter leaving a glowing streak or tail. The number of meteors zipping across the sky should increase steadily though the night, peaking just before sunrise. Meteors should still be visible for several nights thereafter.

The Perseids meteor showers are named after the Perseus constellation. The source of the shower is the comet Swift-Tuttle which is no where near the earth but the comet's tail intersects our orbit and we glide through it every August. This year there will be a new moon, which means with no interference from ambient moon light, a clear night and a dark sky away from other man made light, the Perseid Sky Show should be brilliant!

By the way, these meteors should be visible regardless of what time zone you line in so be sure to share this news with all your stargazing friends!

National Geographic Education Website and Newsletters

Check out the National Geographic's Education Website!
The site is chock full of resources, games, links and more. There are a couple of wonderful newsletter you can subscribe to (free) that will be delivered straight to your email box.

Terrific Tuesdays at Winterthur!

Terrific Tuesdays
August 14 and 21
10 am - 3 pm
This year's theme is all about design! Kids ages 4-11, and their families can explore the natural patterns found in our children's garden, the Enchanted Woods and then look to see how those designs are reflected in the objects found in the museum's collection. Stories, music, crafts, games and more!

August 14: Architecture
August 21: Creating Beauty

$6, children ages 2-11; free admission to one accompanying adult with every child's ticket purchased. Members free.

Hours and Directions
Website

Open Air Concert Series at Bellevue Park

Bring a picnic and a blanket and head for the band shell to enjoy these free* concerts! Concerts take place every Sunday and Thursday evening from June 3 through August 30 at 6:30 p.m. at Bellevue State Park, 800 Carr Road in Wilmington. *Park admission required, see details below.

July:
8 Smooth Play - Adult Contemporary Smooth Jazz
12 Brother Lowdown - Traditional and Original Blues
15 TBA
19 Red Alert Band- Motown
22 Dean Sapp & the Harford Express - Traditional Bluegrass
26 Christina River Steel Band - Caribbean Steel Drum
29 Diamond State Concert - Marches, Show Tunes, Overtures Band

August:
2 The Juveniles - Golden Hits of Rock & Roll
5 Lower case blues - New Age Fusion of Traditional Blues and Rock
9 The Feelgoods - Contemporary Rock
12 The New Kings of Rhythm - Funk, Rhythm & Blues and Reggae
16 John Clark Band - Swing Tunes from The Big Band Era
19 John Grecia Band - Piano-Driven Original Rock
23 A Capella Pops - Broadway, Jazz, Folk, Pop, Gospel
26 The Fe Band - Steel Drum Jazz Rock
30 The Crawdaddies - Zydeco, Blues, Roots Rock and Ska

For more information:
Bellevue Summer Concert Series
Concert Hotline: (302) 761-6965
Arts Center: (302) 793-3046

Park Admission Fees:
Annual pass sticker:
Admits vehicle and occupants to most state parks.
Delaware registered vehicle – $27
Out-of-state registered vehicle – $54

Daily Entrance Fee:
Admits vehicle and passengers to enter most Delaware State Parka on date of purchase.
Delaware Registered Vehicle
$3 a day (Inland Parks)
$4 a day (Ocean Parks)
Out-of-state Registered Vehicle
$6 a day (Inland Parks)
$8 a day (Ocean Parks)

Shakespeare at Rockwood Park!

This open air festival presents Richard the 3rd.
July 27th thru August 11th at Rockwood Mansion Park in Wilmington.

Unhappy in the peacetime following England's War of the Roses, Richard III -Shakespeare's favorite villain - wages his own private war as he murders, manipulates, and marries his way to the throne. Family, friends and enemies all fall under the spell of Richard's devilish charm until he falls on them and sends all toppling before him. Once crowned victorious, his charm turns to paranoia and his own inevitable fall from grace ensues. What begins in the "winter of our discontent" ends with the hero-villain pleading in vain for "A horse, a horse, my kingdom for a horse."

Tickets are $10 general admission except Sundays when children under 11 are admitted free. Tickets are available the day of the performance at Rockwood Park. Audience members are encouraged to arrive an hour early to picnic and enjoy the pre-show retelling of The War of the Roses, a feud that provides the exposition for the play. Music and some children’s craft activities are also provided.

Show times are 7:30 pm, except for Sundays and August 5th when show times are 5:30.

Delaware Shakespeare Festival

Trout Fishing in America at Longwood Gardens

As part of their Family Ice Cream Concert series, Longwood Gardens once again presents this beloved family musical entertainment duo! Trout Fishing in America been charming audiences of all ages for nearly 30 years. Their witty, intelligent music fuses folk and pop with reggae, Latin, blues, jazz and classical styles – all with a fun-loving family oriented style. This Grammy nominated duo is known to generate “music for people who take their fun seriously.”

When:
Friday August 10th at 7:30 pm

Cost:
Included in the price of admission to the gardens.

Garden Passes:
These passes are good for one year from the date of purchase and really are a great deal. Though at first glance the fee may seem pricey but there is continually so much offered at Longwood, we return to the gardens over and over again all year long. There are concerts 3xs a week all summer, fountain shows and seasonal exhibits, as well as the sheer joy of ambling around the pristine gardens, all included in the one time cost of the pass. Longwood Gardens now offers a Garden Pass for families that includes annual admission for up to 5 people for just $105.

Homeschooling Information Night and Used Curriculum Sale

Back by popular demand! Brandywine Valley Home Education Resource Organization, is hosting a second Homeschooling information night and used curriculum sale.

Homeschooling or thinking about it? If you would like to know more about homeschooling and resources in our area then please drop by on Sunday, August 19th from 6:00-9:00 p.m. at the Brandywine Town Center Community Center in North Wilmington, off Namaans Rd and Concord Pike. The community center is the glass domed building by the fountains between Target and the Movie Theaters.

If you'd like to participate in the used curriculum sale contact BVHERO.

For more information:

BVHERO
bvheroes@hotmail.com
302-750-8695

Revolutionary War Reenactment coming to Brandywine Creek State Park!

The British are Coming!
On Saturday, August 23 and Sunday, August 24, Brandywine Creek State Park will be the setting for a Revolutionary War reenactment of the Battle of Cooch’s Bridge, the only Revolutionary War battle fought in Delaware! Watch historical reenactors recreate the battle and celebrate its 230th anniversary. The reenactment will take place in the park from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. The cost of the event will be $20 per car.

The reenactments are be based on the battle between General Howe’s Advanced Guard and General Maxwell’s Light Corps. Brandywine Creek State Park will also be offering related programs, both during the event and in the months before. For more inormation about the reenactment go to: http://www.destateparks.com/CoochsBridge/index.asp



Brandywine Creek State Park is conveniently located just off of I-95 and Route 202, minutes from the city of Wilmington and the Pennsylvania border. The Nature Center is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. For more information about the park and its programs, please call (302) 655-5740 or visit www.destateparks.com/bcsp/bcsp.asp.

Children's Series at the Dupont Theater: 2007-2008 Season

THE 2007-2008 CHILDREN’S SERIES AT THE DUPONT THEATER

ADDY AN AMERICAN GIRL STORY
SATURDAY November or May 3rd at 2PM (90 minutes long)
Tickets are $20-$30.
Addy Walker is a 9 year-old girl growing up in slavery during the Civil War. During their escape, Addy ‘s courage helps save her Momma as they face the terrifying road to freedom. Grades K+

YARINA – Remembrances of Ecuador
THURSDAY, November 8
Tickets are $6.
Dressed in native outfits, Yarina sings in three languages including their native Kichwa, Spanish, and English and plays over 20 different instruments. Music, stories, and dance transports the audience to the Andes. – All ages.
Study Guide

POCAHONTAS
FRIDAY November 9 (DOVER)
Tickets are $6.
With an emphasis on historical fact, Pocahontas is revealed as a playful, strong-minded young girl who changes her world before she will change her beliefs or herself. Join Pocahontas on her amazing journey and see how courage and determination can change the world. Grades 1-5
Study Guide

THE SONG OF MULAN
MONDAY November 19; TUESDAY November 20.
Tickets are $6.
Mulan, serving in her ailing father’s place in the Khan army, risks everything to maintain family honor and earn the love of her nation. This noble Chinese folk tale features an extraordinary heroine, authentic costumes and props, and lovely songs. – Grades K-5 Wilmington

FRANKLY BEN
WEDNESDAY, December 5
Tickets are $7.50.
Meet Ben Franklin – not the elder statesman – but an inquisitive, mischievous, and inventive as a fifteen year old. He is the sole contestant on a reality show that asks, “Have you fulfilled your destiny lately?” and has 60 minutes to .either do that or get voted off the continent! Visit a world of scientific invention and individual achievement in this modern musical about making history. Grades 3 and up –
Study Guide 1
Study Guide 2

WINNIE THE POOH
TUESDAY, January 22 (Wilmington);
WEDNESDAY, January 23 (TBD)
Tickets are $6.
Join Eeyore, Rabbit, Piglet, Owl Kanga, Roo, and everyone’s favorite bear of little brain, Pooh, in this enchanting musical base on A. A. Milne’s stories. Grade P-3
Study guide

JUNIE B. JONES
WEDNESDAY February 20 & THURSDAY FEBRUARY 21 in Wilmington;
FRIDAY February 22 (TBD)
Tickets are $6.
Watch out world, here she comes again! Getting used to a whole new group of friends, a new teacher, and new glasses is challenging to even the irrepressible June b in this rollicking musical adventure based on Barbara Park’s popular books. Grades K-5 20,
Study Guide

KING TUT
THURSDAY March 13
Tickets are $6 each
Egyptian history comes to life in this fascinating musical adventure, linking Tutankhamen and the man who made him famous, archeologist Howard Carter, who uncovered his hidden tomb. Grades 3-8. .
Study Guide

*MADELINE AND THE BAD HAT
FRIDAY March 14, Wilmington School shows are $7.50.
SATURDAY March 15 range from $15 - $25.
Ludwig Bemelman’s much-loved classic comes alive in ArtsPower’s colorful, new musical about Madeline and her rambunctious new neighbor. Grades P-3

*SEUSSICAL
SATURDAY, MARCH 15
Tickets are $15 each.
One of Dr. Seuss’s best loved characters and stories hit the stage in this musical adventure. The noble Horton the Elephant, the one-feathered bird Gertrude McFuzz, and the antics of the Cat in the Hat steal the spotlight in this unforgettable show for the entire family - Grades K-5
Study guide

AESOP’S FABLES
MONDAY, April 7 (Wilmington),
TUESDAY, April 8 (TBD)
Tickets are $6 each.
The Lion and the Mouse, The Fox and the Grapes, The Tortoise and the Hare…Brought to you by nationally acclaimed puppeteer Jim West, including the music of Scarlatti, Beethoven, and Chopin. Grades P-4 7
Study Guide

FLAT STANLEY
Friday APRIL 11
Tickets are $7.50
Stanley wakes up flat one day, gets into an envelope, and travels the world in this new musical. Geography, musical travelogue, social studies, English, Visual Arts, character education, and multicultural studies. Grades P-5
Study Guide - to read the show description
Study guide - to participate in the project

FREEDOM TRAIN
TUESDAY April 22 in Wilmington
TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY April 15, 16 in Dover
Tickets are $6 each
Meet Harriet Tubman, the intrepid conductor of the Underground Railroad! She comes to life in this extraordinary production that shines with traditional music of the period. Grades 3 – 9
Study Guide

STONE SOUP
Wednesday May 7 in Wilmington
Tuesday May 6 in Dover
Tickets are $6
Join Peter and his trusty parrot Admiral as they teach the villager about sharing in this musical retelling of the classic folktale. Grades P-5

MAX AND RUBY
WEDNESDAY May 21
Tickets are $6 each.
Follow the escapades of bunny siblings Max and Ruby ibn this new musical inspired by Rosemary Wells’ books and based on the popular television program. Grades P-3
Study Guide

All shows are at 9:30 or noon in Wilmington and 10AM and noon in Dover.
Shows are one hour long, unless otherwise stated.
Shows listed below are in Wilmington unless otherwise stated.
For tickets contact Barbara Slavin
(302) 594-3166