To all our homeschooling friends in Missouri,

     Since about 2002, I have served as the volunteer Missouri State Coordinator for The Old Schoolhouse Magazine and its website, including the maintenance of the Missouri blog at Homeschool Blogger for the last couple of years.  Next week, we are moving to Salem, IL.  We shall still be close enough to St. Louis so that I can continue working with the Greater St. Louis Area Home Educators Expo ( www.stlhomeschoolexpo.com --the dates for 2009 are Mar. 26-28, and we have already confirmed our keynote speakers; they are Dr. Jay Wile of Apologia Educational Ministries; Ray, Charlene, and John Notgrass of The Notgrass Co.; and Dr. Stephen Guffanti of Rocket Phonics).

     Now that we are moving to Illinois, I don't know exactly what, if any, will be my future relationship with the magazine, but it has certainly been a blast working with all the good folks at TOS over the last few years. Someone has expressed a degree of interest in the Missouri Blog and I directed this person to the staff at TOS, so I don't know how or even whethere that is progressing.  But this will be my last Missouri Blog.  If you are interested, you can read my personal blog at http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/wswalker310/ and my hymn studies blog at http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/hymnstudies/ .

Sincerely,

Wayne S. Walker

     SAD NEWS:  The Walker family will be moving from St. Louis this summer.  In fact, we need to be out of our house by the end of this month (July 31).  Therefore, unless someone steps forward and is willing to continue this blog, I will have to discontinue my participation within the next few weeks.  I am sorry to have to do so, but I will simply not be able to keep up with events in the St. Louis area.  If someone is interested, it really doesn't take that much time, but I do have to be in touch with different local homeschool support groups to learn of their activities that are open to all homeschoolers; various homeschool-related organizations and businesses such as Pillar Foundation, Day Spring Centre for Arts and Education, Providence Fine Arts Academy, the Homeschool Sampler, The Family Vision Library, etc.; and other groups that have events for or of interest to homeschoolers such as the Zoo, the History Museum, the Art Museum, Missouri Botanical Gardens, The Magic House, the Science Center, etc.  Most of them have sent their information to me via e-mail.  And this is just in the St. Louis area--there are other things around the state that I have always had trouble getting information about.   We will certainly miss all the friends that we have made in the homeschooling community here in St. Louis.

FREE JULY EVENTS AT THE MISSOURI HISTORY MUSEUM
     July 5 at 1 p.m. - Storytelling Workshops: Pack a Picnic. Join us on our picnic blanket as we tell stories about our favorite summertime foods. 
     July 5 at 2:00 p.m. - Gallery Talk -  What Does the Fourth of July Mean to Me?  Ideas of Patriotism Along Racial and Economic Divides.  Meet in Seeking St. Louis: Reflections.
     Saturdays, July 5, 12, 26 at 3:00 p.m. -- Theatre in the Museum:  Go Home Rosie!  Find out what happened to Rosie the Riveter after World War II ended. 
      Tuesday, July 8, Noon to 1:00 p.m. -- Lunch and Learn Series, Betty Grable: Biography in AT&T Foundation Multipurpose Room (Free).  Born Elizabeth Ruth Grable in St. Louis in 1916, Betty Grable was groomed for stardom by her mother from an early age.  Join us for this Biography program that includes rare footage and intimate interviews that look beyond those million dollar legs to find the truth about the top pin-up star of the '40s.  Bring your own bag lunch or purchase a lunch from Meriwether's, the museum's restaurant.  Please allow an additional 10 minutes for menu item orders.
     Tuesdays, July 8, 15, 22, 29 at 2:00 p.m. -- Theatre in the Museum: Billy Yank - Hard Tack to Hard Marches.  NEW! Hear the story of what it was like to be a grunt soldier for the Union.
     July 8 - August 15; Tuesdays: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.; Fridays: 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.:  Drop-In Make-and-Take Workshops MacDermott Grand Hall (Free).  Participants of all ages will enjoy creating arts and crafts projects inspired by objects and themes in our galleries.  Projects will include Native American dream catchers, model airplanes, historic paper dolls, rally flags, journal scrapbooks, and more.  Just drop in and join us!  One adult for every four children is required.  Groups of more than eight people must schedule: (314) 361-9017. 
     July 9 through August 14, 11:30 a.m. -- Make plans to bring your summer school, camp, youth program or homeschoolers to see Where Fires Dwell.  On Wednesdays and Thursdays from performances of this play will be followed by a role-playing activity for the audience.  Reservations are required; call (314) 361-9017. 
     Friday, July 11, 25 at 2:00 p.m. -- Theatre in the Museum:  Zenobia Unchained: The Life and Work of Harriet Hosmer, American Sculptor .  This remarkable woman was one of the greatest 19th century American scholars.  She studied anatomy in St. Louis, and St. Louis is home to some of her greatest works.  Hear this unconventional woman's take on the most conventional of times - the Victorian Era.
     July 11 at 10:30 a.m. & July 12 at 1 p.m.  - Storytelling Workshops: Animal on a Bike.  Bikes aren't just for kids!  Join us for silly stories about animals riding bicycles.  
     July 12 at 2:00 p.m. - Gallery Talk -  Creoles of the Louisiana Territory.  Meet in Seeking St. Louis: Currents.
     Saturday, July 12, and Saturday, August 23, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. -- Genealogy Series, African American Genealogy Workshops in AT&T Foundation Multipurpose Room (Free).  Regarded by many as the authority on African American genealogy, the Afro-American Genealogical Society of St. Louis, Landon Cheek Chapter is a non-profit organization created to foster dynamic African American genealogy research.   Whether you're a novice or an enthusiast, join us for ongoing workshops designed to develop basic skills in gathering, preserving, researching and publishing the history, genealogy and culture of people of African descents in the St. Louis region.  On August 23, join us for a special workshop with Charles U. Brown of the Afro-American Genealogical Society of St. Louis, Landon Cheek Chapter.  He will share ideas on how to organize, host and put on a family reunion. 
      Saturdays, July 12, 19, 26 at 11:30 a.m. -- Theatre in the Museum - Teens Make History:  Where Fires Dwell.  This Missouri History Museum original play follows a family seeking to survive and overcome the East St. Louis Race Riots of 1917.  Local teens take the stage performing plays based on St. Louis history.  These FREE programs are held in the Lee Auditorium.
     Sunday, July 13, 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. -- Second Sunday Celebration, The Strategy of Victory Youth Chess Tournament; Sponsored by Employees Community Fund of Boeing St. Louis; Co-sponsored by the Chess Club and Scholastic Center of St. Louis in MacDermott Grand Hall.  Free, but reservations are required; call (314) 361-9017  In the 21st century-age of XBox, chess - the oldest game of skill - still thrives.  Stop by the Missouri History Museum to watch a new generation square off in the contest of strategy and cunning. 
     Tuesday, July 15, 7:30 p.m. -- Michael Eastman and the Modern Past - A Presentation and Book Signing; Co-sponsored by the Duane Reed Gallery in Lee Auditorium.  Free, but ticketed.  Think of the quirky buildings you pass every day but whose quiet beauty you take for granted - the movie houses, juke joints, soda fountains, barbershops, roadside diners and storefront churches.  You don't miss them until they're gone.  As suburban sprawl and strip malls conquer the country, these vestiges of a lost way of life are falling under the wrecking ball.  Photographer Michael Eastman has made the ultimate road trip, crisscrossing the nation dozens of times, to capture these buildings on film before they vanish and has packaged them for us so neatly in his book Vanishing America: The End of Main Street Diners, Drive-Ins, Donut Shops and Other Everyday Monuments. 
     July 18 at 10:30 a.m. & July 19  at 1 p.m.  - Storytelling Workshops: I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Ice Cream.  July is National Ice Cream Month.  Come learn about the history of the ice cream cone at the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair and hear stories about ice cream. 
     Saturday, July 19, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. -- Family Fun Day Celebrates the National Day of Ice Cream (A Day Early!) Throughout the Museum (Free).  In 1984, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the third Sunday in July as the National Day of Ice Cream.  In honor of this momentous occasion, the Missouri History Museum and St. Louis' North Star Frozen Treats have decided to start a day early and make this a holiday to remember. 
1:00 - 4:00 p.m. - Get your picture taken for FREE in the F4 Phantom in the Flight City exhibition. 
1:00 - 1:30 p.m. - Listen to an ice cream-themed Storytelling in the Galleries program (meet in The 1904 World's Fair).
1:30 - 3:30 p.m. - Enjoy FREE ice cream treats and appearances by Norton the Penguin (don't forget your camera!).
1:45 p.m. - Hear a great 1904 World's Fair music program.
2:00 - 4:00 p.m. - Participate in fun hands-on activities.
2:30 p.m. - Tap your toes to an "old tyme fiddle music" concert.
     July 19 at 2:00 p.m. - Gallery Talk -  Funny Pages: Political Cartoons.  Meet at the entrances to the Seeking St. Louis galleries.
     July 25 at 10:30 a.m. & July 26 at 1 p.m.  - Storytelling Workshops: Water, Water Everywhere.  Summer is all about water - swimming pools, fishing, going to the beach and more!  Join us for stories about fun in the water. 
     July 26 at 2:00 p.m. - Gallery Talk -  Cultures on Display: An Anthropological Look at the 1904 World's Fair.  Meet at the entrance to The 1904 World's Fair.
     Saturday, July 26, 2:00 p.m. -- The Roots of Tennis Presentation and Book Signing in Lee Auditorium (Free).  The Roots of Tennis: Blue Bloods to Blue Collars by Jack Eggmann tells of the history of tennis in St. Louis, described in depth with obvious love of the game.  Eggmann thoroughly covers Dwight Davis, Arthur Ashe, Jimmy Connors, Butch Buchholz and Chuck McKinley.  The text is illustrated by a large collection of prints, some very rare and some from the Missouri History Museum.  It's a must-have book for any tennis lover! 
     Tuesday, July 29, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. -- Trash or Treasure: Civil War-Style, Presented in cooperation with Ivey-Selkirk Auctioneers
in MacDermott Grand Hall; $5 per item per person; $4 per item for MHM members.  There is a limit of two items per person.  Tickets will be sold for 6 p.m., 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. time slots  Reservations are required; call (314) 361-9017.  What is the family heirloom you inherited worth in cold, hard cash?  Could that $5 flea market find finance your children's college education?  Are those antiques you've been hoarding in the attic a treasure trove or a pile of worthless junk?  This year we are extending a special invitation to those who have items related to the Civil War and the Victorian era (though anyone with an item to be appraised is welcome). 
No coins, stamps or firearms appraised
Verbal appraisals given for informational purposes only; no written appraisals
Absolutely no buying or selling of merchandise
Items must be small enough to carry; no items brought in on dollies
Attendees are responsible for maintaining their items' safety/condition
Appraisers are independent and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Missouri History Museum
     Tuesday, July 29, 7:30 p.m. -- James B. Eads, Ulysses S. Grant and the Civil War Ironclads in Lee Auditorium (Free).  Before he built the bridge in St. Louis, James B. Eads built seven ironclads - steam-propelled warships protected by iron or steel armor plates - in 100 days, just in time to play a critical role in Grant's successful campaign to capture Forts Henry and Donelson.  Eads and Grant became warm friends and allies.  Join Jerry Porter as he discusses the careers and friendships of these two 19th century icons. 
     If you have questions, contact us at 314.361.9265 or education@mohistory.org .

DESTINATION THEATRE COMPANY HOMESCHOOL SPECIAL: A CHRISTMAS CAROL
July 7, 8, 10, 11 and 12
West County Assembly of God, 13431 N. Outer 40 Rd., Chesterfield, MO
(Hwy, 40 and Maryville Center Dr.)
     Have you ever wanted to attend a high-quality theatrical production only to find that the tickets were out of your price range?  Ever
wanted to take your kids to a theatrical event but didn't know what kinds of inappropriate language or content you'd have to explain later?  Well, we have a great answer to both of those problems.
     Destination Theatre Company presents a great homeschool special for our upcoming production of A Christmas Carol.  Performances for the musical production are .  Regular prices for the 7th and 8th, which includes popcorn and soda, are $7 each or $40 for a table of 8.  Regular prices for the 10th, 11th and 12, which includes a full dinner or brunch, are $15 each or $100 for a table.
     However, just for homeschool families, you can purchase individual tickets for the July 8th performance for just $3 or a complete table for just $20.
     To get this special price, point your browser to www.dtcboxoffice.org/homeschool.  Enter a username of 'homeschool' and
the password 'hscc2008'  Tickets can be purchased from the resulting page using PayPal.
     To order by phone or email, contact us using the information below.  Tickets must be purchased by June 30th, 2008 in order to receive this pricing.
     For more information, contact Allen Moore, Director at allen@destinationtc.org .

MUSICAL THEATRE WORKSHOP: DISNEY'S SLEEPING BEAUTY
July 7 - July 25, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from 9 am to 2:30 pm
DaySpring School of the Arts, 2608 Metro Blvd., Maryland Hgts., MO  63043
Ages 6-11, $250
For information or registration, call (314) 291-8878,
e-mail office@dayspringarts-ed.org , or visit www.dayspringarts-ed.org  

MUSICAL THEATRE WORKSHOP: ONCE UPON A MATRESS
July 8 - Aug. 1, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, from 9 am to 2:30 pm
DaySpring School of the Arts, 2608 Metro Blvd., Maryland Hgts., MO  63043
Ages 11 to, $325
For information or registration, call (314) 291-8878,
e-mail office@dayspringarts-ed.org , or visit www.dayspringarts-ed.org  

PRESCHOOL CREATIVE ARTS WORKSHOP
July 8-24, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 to 11:30 am
DaySpring School of the Arts, 2608 Metro Blvd., Maryland Hgts., MO  63043
Ages 3-5, $120
For information or registration, call (314) 291-8878,
e-mail office@dayspringarts-ed.org , or visit www.dayspringarts-ed.org  

SUMMER AND FALL ACTIVITIES AT THE BUTTERFLY HOUSE
Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House, 15193 Olive Blvd. in Faust Park, Chesterfield, Mo.
     July 9 & 16: Butterfly Display: Pins and Mounts. Practice the most useful skill to any entomologist: learn to pin and mount an insect for display in this two-part class. Ages eight through 12. 10 to 11 a.m. $18. (636) 530-0076, ext. 13.
     July 11 & 13: “Camp Bugaloo: Bugs and Blossoms.” Science, math and language development are the focus of this 90-minute nature-themed program. Visit the Itsy Bitsy Spider and Little Miss Muffett’s friends, make a floral creation, and crawl into a sunflower house for some special time. Ages four and five, with a parent or guardian. Friday, 10:30 a.m.; or Sunday, 12:30 p.m. $18 per class covers each child and one adult. Pre-registration required. (636) 530-0076, ext. 13.
     July 18 & 20: “Camp Bugaloo: Bugs and Blossoms.” Science, math and language development are the focus of this 90-minute nature-themed program. Visit the Itsy Bitsy Spider and Little Miss Muffett’s friends, make a floral creation, and crawl into a sunflower house for some special time. Ages two and three, with a parent or guardian. Friday, 10:30 a.m.; or Sunday, 12:30 p.m. $18 per class covers each child and one adult. Pre-registration required. (636) 530-0076, ext. 13.
     July 19: Craft Saturday. Children of all ages can make a fun project between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
     July 26: “Bug Hunt Challenge.” The Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House has been challenged by other butterfly houses and zoos across the U.S. to see who can collect the most insects. Collecting sessions at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. For ages eight and older with a parent. A great family activity! Register on site on the day of the event. Participation is limited. (636) 530-0076, ext. 10.
     Aug. 2: Craft Saturday. Children of all ages can make a fun project between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
     Aug. 8 & 10: “Camp Bugaloo: Bugs and Blossoms.” Science, math and language development are the focus of this 90-minute nature-themed program. Visit the Itsy Bitsy Spider and Little Miss Muffett’s friends, make a floral creation, and crawl into a sunflower house for some special time. Ages two and three, with a parent or guardian. Friday, 10:30 a.m.; or Sunday, 12:30 p.m.  $18 per class covers each child and one adult. Pre-registration required. (636) 530-0076, ext. 13.
     Throughout September: The Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House celebrates its tenth anniversary with special activities all month long. Details TBD.
     Sept. 20: Craft Saturday. Children of all ages can make a fun project between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
     COST: Included with admission ($6 adults, $4.50 seniors, $4 ages 4 to 12, free ages 3 and under), unless otherwise noted
     INFO: (636) 530-0076; www.butterflyhouse.org

LINCOLN COUNTY CHRISTIAN HOME EDUCATORS USED CURRICULUM SALE
Friday, June 20, 2008; Doors open to the public from 9:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
St. Stephens United Methodist Church, 101 Saint Stephen Ln., Troy, Missouri.
     The church is located on Hwy 47 in Troy, MO. If coming by Hwy 40-61, take the Troy exit, turn west onto Hwy 47, travel through the town of Troy. At the stoplight to Wal-Mart the church is 0.69 miles, travel through one last stoplight past Wal-Mart. The church is on the right hand side of the road. There is a large church sign. The church is on the top of a hill.
     Large round tables are available for rent at $5 per table. To request a table(s) e-mail mailto:dloefflerbunch@yahoo.com . Please type “table, used curriculum sale” in the subject line. A confirmation e-mail will be sent to you. Table rental money is due upon arrival at the sale. Doors open for sellers at 8:30 a.m.

SHARE USED CURRICULUM SALE
Saturday, June 21, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Sellers can set up at 8 a.m. and buy from each other before 9 a.m.
Salvation Army, 824 Union Road - In the back recreation/activities room
Sellers can set up at 8 a.m.
Cost  $5.00 per table.   25 tables available…first come, first served
Cost is per table not per seller...sellers may share a table if you don’t have too much to sell. 
Sponsored by St. Louis Homeschooling Activities, Resources, and Encouragement
For more information, contact Amy Carpenter at 314-487-9252 or macarpenter2@sbcglobal.net

CIRCUS FLORA
     Through June 22. Show times are 7 p.m., Tuesdays through Fridays; 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., Saturdays; and 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Sundays. It is closed on Mondays.
     Under the air-conditioned tent in Grand Center. It is adjacent to Powell Hall at the corner of Grand Boulevard and Samuel Sheppard Drive.
     Homeschooled students Elliana, Keaton, and Kellin Hentoff-Killian and Claire Kuciejczyk-Kernan will be performing with Circus Flora, St. Louis’ professional one ring, European style circus from June 5th to June 22nd, except Mondays.
     Elliana, Claire, Keaton, and Kellin are doing partner acrobatics and tumbling with the St. Louis Arches, Claire and Elliana are vaulting with the Ianna Spirit Riders (vaulting combines dance and acrobatics on horseback), and Elliana and Claire are appearing throughout the Robin Hood story.
     To purchase tickets call (314) 534-1111 or visit www.metrotix.com .  For information about Circus Flora please see their website at http://www.circusflora.org/ . To purchase tickets please go to the Flora box office or call 289-4040. This is the Circus Flora box office number. There is no service charge if you purchase tickets at the Circus Flora Box Office, Centene Center Lobby, 3547 Olive, or the circus lot. Please check website for times each are opened. There is a $1.00 service fee per ticket if you order by phone through Circus Flora and pick up at will call. (This is still cheaper than the $4.00 service charge if you ordered through Metrotix.)
     Admission: Tickets range from $8 to $35, depending on performance. Tuesday has the cheapest ticket price at $8.00; Wednesday, Thursday, Friday are the next cheapest days at $12.00. Groups of 20 or more can have a 20% discount Wednesday through Sunday. This year there is assigned, reserved seating. There are individual seats instead of bleachers.

MATH CONTEST CAMP 2008
Week 1:  June 22-27
             For Students entering grades 5-8
Week 2:  July 6-11
             For Students entering grades 7-12
Campus of Southwest Baptist University, Bolivar, MO
1600 University Avenue Bolivar, Missouri 65613      What is Math Contest Camp?...  It is an opportunity for students who love math to work through old math contests together (such as MATHCOUNTS, AMC 10/12, and other contests); discuss these contests and how to do the problems and other similar problems; develop creativity and problem-solving abilities; develop discipline and self-confidence as they learn new mathematics and mathematically related activities; plus recreation and social times.
     Dr. Kevin Hopkins, Ph.D in mathematics from University of Illinois and Chair of SBU Math Dept, is the host instructor for Math Contest Camps at SBU.  He has hosted student math contests for 9 years, works with a math contest club at his local middle school, conducted week-long summer workshops for teachers, etc.  He loves working with children  to encourage their love of learning math. 
     This is an opportunity for students to work with peers as they  learn and are challenged in the area of math.  There is a mix of public, private, and homeschool students who attend Math Contest Camp, and all greatly enjoy it!  Dr. Hopkins has given permission to share this info with homeschoolers
     In addition to working with math, students often have opportunities to swim at the campus pool, climb the rock wall on campus, play lots of Scatterball, etc.  Overall, it is a very fun and educational week.  Chaperones are Christian parents or teachers who work closely with Dr. Hopkins to make the camp experience safe, fun, and rewarding.
     It is not required that a student be familiar with Math Contests, nor enjoy the competition aspect of math contests.  The student does need to enjoy math, as that will be the focus of the camp.   For more info about Math Contest Camp 2008 at SBU in Bolivar:
http://users.sbuniv.edu/~khopkins/2008mcc.html 
     The camp will be held on the campus of Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar, MO, but is not sponsored by SBU.  It is the personal work of Dr. Hopkins, Chair of the Mathematics Department at Southwest Baptist University.  Bolivar is 130 miles from Kansas City, 190 miles from St. Louis, and 25 miles north of Springfield.  The Lake of the Ozarks and Branson are nearby attractions families could visit before or after dropping their camper off.  Although not officially sponsoring the camp, Southwest Baptist University is the location of the facilities. 
     To contact SBU, call 1-800-526-5859 or (417) 328-5281.  Feel free to contact Dr. Hopkins (e-mail: khopkins@sbuniv.edu ) if you have any questions.  You may also call him at (417) 328-1675 or fax him at (417) 328-1658.

ART CAMP AND STONE CARVING WORKSHOP
Monday-Friday, June 23-27
9 - 11:30 am for ages 8-10; ; $110
Noon - 3 pm for ages 11 & up; $130
DaySpring School of the Arts, 2608 Metro Blvd., Maryland Heights, OH  63043
     Join us to learn the basic  tools & techniques of carving stone & plaster. You will draw on other artistic techniques & the principles of 3D design including drawing, proportion, texture and line as you sculpt a rough block of plaster into an elegant work of Art!  Price includes most supplies.  Taught by sculptor Abraham Mohler.
     No extra registration fee if you mention you learned about this through a homeschooling support group / network
     Contact 314.291.8878, email office@dayspringarts-ed.org , or visit www.dayspringarts-ed.org .

CHRISTIAN HOME EDUCATORS FELLOWSHIP (CHEF) CONFERENCE AND CURRICULUM FAIR
Monday-Wednesday, June 23-25, 2008.
St. Charles Convention Center, One Convention Center Plaza, St. Charles, MO
For more information, check http://www.chef-missouri.com

2008 LEGO ROBOTICS SUMMER CAMP
June 23-27, 2008
There will be a beginners class in the morning from 8:30 to 12:30, and an advanced class from 1-5 pm
Peace Lutheran Church, 5 Scenic Drive, Washington, MO
     This five day program is a chance for students ages 8-14 to participate in individual and small team design projects while fostering an understanding of the engineering design process.  Several engineering challenges are presented throughout the week.  Students will use LEGO bricks, the new NXT robot and ROBOLAB software.  The children will design, build, and program their robotics creations.  Each child is encouraged to work within his/her own abilities as they explore engineering and its underlying principles.  Snacks provided daily.  The beginner class will focus more on engineering and structure, while the advanced class will expand knowledge of the software and robot engineering.  The children will be working with a standard FIRST LEGO League playing field.
     The cost will be $200 per child on a first come basis.  Class sizes will be limited.  Accommodations (cost and content) can be made for children who need to take a full day of camp.  Please submit questions to Kathie Reuter, reuts@aol.com or 314-965-8432.

CARRILLON CONCERT June 24th Karel Keldermans of Springfield Illinois will perform
From 7 pm to 8 pm. 
At the Luther Tower, 801 Seminary Place, Clayton, Missouri
Concordia Seminary Hosts Carillon Recital Series - Free
For more information, call (314) 505-7374.
If you wish, bring picnics, lawn chairs or blankets.
Meet the guest artists at the base of Luther Tower after the concert.

AN EXCITING NEW WORKSHOP: WIRED JEWELRY, WIRED BOXES!
Wednesday & Thursday Mornings, June 25 & 26, 9 am to 12 noon
St. Louis Artists' Guild, 2 Oak Knoll Park Clayton, MO 63105
     Create an original painted jewelry piece and a companion decorative  box in a two-morning art event. Learn a host of fine craft techniques while assembling this many facetted, amazing project. Two uniquely talented, Best of Missouri Hands Juried Artists will guide you through an artistic adventure of watercolor, wire jewelry formation, giclee decoupage box embellishment with brass wire and bead sculpture.Apply what you know, Learn something new!
     Join Denise C. Smith and Linda J. Green/Metzler for this fun workshop packed with trade secrets and technical tips that will open new worlds of imaginative art expression.
     Price $150 includes materials of paints, porcelain, brass jewelry-grade wire. (A small, reusable tool kit will be needed. Available at  Michaels and other craft stores)
     Class limited to 15 students to insure individual attention. Age 16  to Adult Welcome
     For more information www.stlouisartistsguild.org or call Denise at 636-584-0442, E-mail: optimaxart@aol.com OR Linda at 314-469-3205, E-mail: lgmetzler@charter.net with Attention: Painters! Crafters! Jewelry Artists!

HOMSECHOOL SUMMER SCHOOL PROGRAM AT ARROW ROCK
Turn of the Century Farm Life
Thursday, June 26, 10:00-12:00.
Arrow Rock State Historic Site, Hwy. 41 and Hwy. TT, Arrow Rock, MO
     The Friends of Arrow Rock and the Arrow Rock State Historic Site invite Home School families to Arrow Rock for the 2008 “Summer School” Program focusing on Turn of the Century Farm Life.
     Utilizing the farm home and outbuildings of the 1903 Lawless family, we will portray aspects of farm life before the advent of the tractor. The program includes a tour of the farmhouse, a discussion on tools and techniques in the chicken house, some lively games of the time period and a “chore course”. Home School Day will be held rain or shine. Dress for indoor and outdoor activities.
     The program will be approximately two hours in length and will be $4.00 per child (kindergarten and older). One parent and preschool children may attend free. Additional adults may attend for the $4.00 fee.
     To Make Reservations: Registration must be done through the Arrow Rock State Historic Site, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday at 660-837-3330 or 1-800-334-6946 and ask to be transferred to Arrow Rock State Historic Site.
     Before You Call, Have the Following Information Ready:
* Total number of students, parents, and other adults
* Grade level or ages of students
* Parent’s name
* Address
* Phone number
* E-mail address
You will receive a confirmation letter and map after registration.
     Check-In Procedures on June 26: The 2008 Summer School Program will be approximately two hours in length and will include four stations. Check-in at the State Historic Site Visitor Center will be 9:00-9:45 a.m. Please have the total payment for your family
ready upon arrival. Checks may be made payable to Friends of Arrow Rock.
     An orientation film on Arrow Rock will be available for those arriving by 9:15. It may also be viewed in the afternoon following the program. There is no charge to go through the museum or view the film.
     At 9:45, you will travel by your own vehicle to the Lawless Site which is ¼ mile from the Visitor Center. Be sure to use the public restrooms at the Visitor Center; none are available at the Lawless House. Our volunteers will be at the Lawless House only from 10:00-12:00.
     A teacher or supervising adult must accompany all children throughout the program. Everyone should use “museum manners.” Please no gum, drinks, or food during the programs. The four stations may be toured in any order at your leisure between 10:00 and 12:00.
     For more information, contact Cindy Imhoff or Pam Parsons, Interpretive Resource Specialist and Education Director, at 660-837-3330 or 1-800-334-6946

A BEKA MOTEL MEETINGS
     Date: June 26, 2008
Time: 10 am - 12 pm and 2 - 4 pm
Holiday Inn South - Butler Hill
4234 Butler Hill Rd.
St. Louis , MO 63129
Directions: I-55, Exit 195 (Butler Hill Rd.)
     Date: June 27, 2008
Time: 10 am - 12 pm and 2 - 4 pm
Holiday Inn
4901 Six Flags Rd.
Eureka, MO 63025
Directions: I-44, Exit 261
     Here is a great opportunity for you to meet A Beka Book Representative Jeff Sullivan, view A Beka Book home school materials, and receive free shipping on your A Beka Book order for this year.
     Display times and locations are subject to change. To verify a display time or to find out about other home school materials displays, please visit our web site at http://www.abeka.com/10/materialsdisplay/ or call toll free 1-800-874-3597, ext. 10.

CONCORDIA SEMINARY CARILLON RECITAL SERIES

BOB JONES UNIVERSITY PRESS HOMESCHOOL SOLUTIONS MEETINGS IN MISSOURI
     Thu., June 12, 2008, 12-7 pm; Holiday Inn, 102 S. 3rd St. (I-279 at Edmonds St. exit), St. Joseph, MO
     Fri., June 20, 2008, 12-7 pm; Hampton Inn W., 3695 W. Hwy. 76 (Country Music Blvd.), Branson, MO
     Mon., July 7, 2008, 12-7 pm; Holiday Inn, 2720 Glenstone Ave. (I-44 at Exit 80-A), Springfield, MO
     Thurs., July 10, 2008, 12-7 pm; Holiday Inn, 2200 I-70 Dr. (I-70 at Stadium Blvd. exit), Columbia, MO
     Tues., July 22, 2008, 12-7 pm; Regency Inn, 4200 S. Noland Rd. (I-70 at Noland Rd. exit), Independence, MO
     Tues., July 29, 2008, 12-7 pm; Holiday Inn, 4234 Butler Hill Rd. (I-55 at Butler HIll Rd. exit), St. Louis, MO
     Meet Stanley Albrecht, the state's knowledgeable BJU Press representative.  Ask questions.  Look at products.  If you want to contact him early call (816) 863-9345 or e-mail salbrecht@preceptmarketing.com .
     See solutions that help you save.  Come to a meeting for details, or for more information on special offers go to www.bjupress.com/go/specials .
     Free shipping on all materials ordered at BJUP solutions meetings.  For a complete listing of meetings by stated, visit www.bjupress.com/meetings/ or call 1-800-845-5731.
     Check out distance learning options: Hard Drive, DVD, Satellite.  Preview curricula.  Talk with a knowledgeable representative.  Meet other homeschooling parents.  Order books and distance learning.  Learn about testing and the Academy of Home Education.

TEACHER WORKSHOP: THE GREAT AMERICAN WEST
Thurs., June 12, 2008, from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm
Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, 11 N. 4th St., St. Louis, MO
8:30-9:00 am--registration and refreshments--Visitor Center under the Gateway Arch
9:00 am - 12:00 noon--"Before the Exhibits" and "Go West Young Man"--Museum of Westward Expansion
12:00 noon - 1:00 pm--lunch and raising the flag--The Old Courthouse
1:00-3:30 pm--"In the Pioneeering Spirit"--The Old Courthouse
Make your reservation by calling (314) 655-1635
When you make reservations you can order a box lunch; or you can bring your own lunch
(Note:  This is NOT an event for children but for teachers--homeschool teachers are welcome)

ST. CHARLES CHRISTIAN HOME EDUCATORS USED CURRICULUM SALE
Thursday, June 12,  12:30-3:30 for buyers 
Grace Community Chapel, 7661 Mexico Road, St. Peters,  MO  63376
Anyone Can Buy and Sell Books.  This sale is not limited to SCCHE members.
     Costs are minimal.  All money paid for selling books or for Early Bird Admission will be applied toward the Widow and Orphanage Funds. SCCHE will pay for the use of the building and any incidental costs of the sale itself.
     Envelope Pricing:  Books are priced "envelope style" and placed by subject in various rooms throughout the church. (The rooms are labeled.) Volunteers are in each room to help shoppers and to monitor the books. To purchase books, you take the books that you want to a central table in the foyer, peel the envelopes off of the books, put the appropriate amount of money in the envelopes (cash or check unless seller specifies "cash only"), and then seal the envelopes.  The envelope is then turned in to the "cashier" in the payment room.  Envelopes are filed alphabetically and can be picked up by the seller when seller wants to pick up.
     There will be limited space available for those who just want to be at a table to sell their books.  Round tables will rent for $10. There are about 8 round tables available.  8 foot tables will rent for $12. There are only 4 or 5 available.  If you want to sell your books at a table (you sit at the table) you need to let Phebe Martin know by May 23rd. After May 23rd, any available tables will be opened up for vendors to rent.  To reserve a table, contact Phebe Martin at phebem.scche@gmail.com  or (636) 939-3225 (e-mail preferred) and then mail a check to Phebe for the rental of the table. Please include your name, e-mail  address, and phone number with your table reservation. Because of the limited number of tables, reservations are not secured until Phebe has your check and information for table reservation in her hand. Phebe's address is:
Phebe Martin
3021 Arrow Rock Dr.
St. Charles, MO  63303
Final confirmation of your table will be sent to you via e-mail and will not occur until your check is received. If you do not have an e-mail address, please include a self addressed stamped envelope with your reservation, so Phebe can mail you table reservation confirmation.   Obtaining a table on which to sell your books (instead of selling envelope style) will occur on a first-come, first-served basis. Most tables will be needed for books that will be sorted and sold envelope style. You will be notified if all reservable tables have been filled.
     All sellers will receive an "Early Bird Shopping" ticket on the day they check in to set up your table. They may have as many as two tickets if they have two people working at your table. We ask that you remember that all money generated by table rental and ticket sales goes toward widows and orphans.
     Vendor Tables:  Vendor's tables will be $30 and will not be available until after May 23rd, giving homeschoolers the time necessary to rent table space if they so desire.  Vendors' tables will be round.  Vendors may bring in their own tables, space available. Cost for space: $30.  Contact Phebe Martin if you are interested in a table.
     Book Pricing Fellowship (Wednesday 1:00 to 3:00 p.m).  If all this sounds too confusing, or if you would like some fellowship while you price your books, please join us for an afternoon of fellowship and book pricing at Grace Community Chapel.   Volunteers will be available to help you price your books. You can then leave your books at Grace so that they can be placed in the appropriate rooms. The price for selling envelope style when you leave your books on Wednesday afternoon is $5.
     Volunteers Needed;  If you would like to volunteer in any capacity, please contact Margaret Porch at sccheleaders@gmail.com  / phone 636-441-5470 or Phebe Martin at phebem.scche@gmail.com  / phone 636-939-3225 (email preferred in both cases).  When you email, please include your phone number so you can be called back.  Volunteers needed to help price books donated to the widow’s / orphanage fund.  Many of these books will be dropped off early.  Contact Margaret Hibbeler at 636-939-9755 or / st_charles_hibbelers@yahoo.com  to volunteer to help price widow / orphanage fund books.
     Sale Schedule: Any homeschooler is welcome to buy or sell books and educational supplies at this sale.  It is not limited to SCCHE.
Wednesday Morning 8:00 – 1:00:   Set up
Wednesday afternoon
1:00 – 3:00    Early Bird Book Drop Off - $5.00
1:00 – 3:00    Book Pricing Fellowship
1:00 – 3:00    Workshop:- Homeschooling Your Junior and Senior High Schooler
Thursday Morning and Afternoon:
9:00 – 9:45      Early Morning Book Drop Off  $7.00
9:00 – 10:30    New Homeschooler’s Workshop – In Sanctuary
9:45 – 10:30    Later Morning Book Drop Off - $10.00
10:30 – 11:00    Vendors and homeschoolers selling books by the table can set up their tables. 
10:30 – 11:15    Final sorting and set up of books.  Volunteer shopping time.  Lunch. 
11:15 —12:30:  Early Bird Shopping.  Fee $3.00. 
12:30 — 3:30:  Shopping time open to everyone.
3:15 — 3:45:  Pick up your money envelopes and unsold items at this time. 
3:45—4:30 (ish):  Clean up
     Donate without pricing:  You may donate your books without pricing any of them.  Just contact Margaret Hibbeler at 636-939-9755 or / st_charles_hibbelers@yahoo.com  and work out a time when you can get your books to her.  If you are unable to do that, you can bring them to the sale to be priced.  However, if they can be priced before the sale, that will reduce the amount of work that needs to be done on the day of set up or on the day of the sale.

MOBOT EDUCATOR NIGHT
June 12, 2008, from 5 - 7pm
the Ridgway Center at Mo. Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Ave., St. Louis, MO  63110.
     All educators, including home educators, are invited to explore the educational programs and resources available at the Garden.
     Enjoy complimentary refreshments and free admission for you and a guest to NIKI Nights on Educator Night. Representatives from the Education Division will be onsite with information and to answer questions.
     Feel free to forward this invitation to interested colleagues. Registration is required upon arrival.  For more information, call 314-577-5140
 
HOMESCHOOL SUMMER DAYS AT THE AQUAPORT
Thurs., June 12, Tues., July 15, and Tues., Aug. 5, all at 11 am
Aquaport, 2344 McKelvey Rd., Maryland Heights, MO  630443
     The Thurmond’s would like to invite you (and all your homeschool friends) to join them at Aquaport this summer.
     We hope you can join us at 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 12th, Tuesday, July 15th or Tuesday, August 5th.  You’re welcome any or all days, but you will need to be there at 11 a.m., if you are to get in for the reduced rate.  Adults are $5, Children (ages 4-15) are $4, ages 3 and under get in free.
     Information about Aquaport can be found at http://www.marylandheights.com/index.asp?NID=75
     Lunch details: you can’t bring food into the park, but if you bring your lunch, they will let you re-enter after eating and there are picnic tables outside the gates.  They also have a snack bar that usually has pizza, hot dogs, chicken strips, nachos, ice cream and such.
     Please email Susie Thurmond no later than the day before at rsthur96@charter.net  so we know to be looking for you!

HOMESCHOOL SWIM PARTY FOR TWEENS AND TEENS
Friday, June 13th, 2:00 pm until 9:00 pm   
Indian Hill Swim Club, 4210 Lasata Dr  Affton, MO   63123    
For Ages 9-18 (Lifeguards on duty)
Any child under 10 years of age  must have a parent stay at the swim club.
Parents and siblings are always welcome.
     The cost is $8.00 for 12 and under  (plus a food item, see list below) and $9.00 for 13 and older  (plus a food item, see list below)
     Dinner will be  around 5:30 pm.  Hot dogs, buns, water bottles, and juice boxes will be provided.  If your last name begins with  A-H bring a side dish ( beans, slaw, potato salad, veggies & dip)
I-M  bring fruit or dessert item
N-R bring chips or snack item
S-Z bring 1 cold 12 pack of soda (bring in a cooler)
If your side dish or fruit needs to stay cold please bring in a cooler.
NO glass containers permitted in the park.
     Indian Hills Swim Club also has a basketball court, volleyball and shuffle board.
     Sign up: by Thursday, June 12th 10pm.  Youth (ages 13 and up) email Pat Zink at pzink463@charter.net ; Tweens ( ages 9-12) email Lisa Dobrich at lisadobich@sbcglobal.net .
     This is a private club; therefore you must sign up so we can provide the club with your name and the total of how many guest are expected.
     If you wish to help chaperone this event please email Lisa or Pat.  Special note for kids 12 and under.  Kids 12 and under must take a swim test (tread water for 30 seconds and swim 1 lap) if they want to go off the diving board and 2 big slides.   If they pass the swim test a special swim tag can be purchased for .75 cents. This tag allows the child to use diving board and slide. The tag is good for 2007 swim season. So keep your tag for future swim parties.
     PS. Try to have exact change; this will help everyone enter the park quicker.

11TH ANNUAL MISSOURI MINES ROCK SWAP
June 13-14-15, 2008; 9am - 6pm Friday & Saturday and 9am - 5pm Sunday
Missouri Mines State Historic Site,
south side of Hwy. 32, 1.5 miles west of US Hwy. 67, Park Hills, MO
**SWAP-SELL-BUY
rocks/minerals/fossil/rock jewelry/crafts
**FUN for entire family
**Visit State Historic Site and Mining Mineral Museum FREE
**Auctions of Rocks, Minerals, and Rock Jewelry to benefit Museum
 Sponsored by:
Mineral Area Gem and Mineral Society
Greater St. Louis Association of Earth Science Clubs
Missouri Department of Natural Resources

HOMESCHOOL "MOM TIME"
The next Homeschool Mom Times are scheduled
Friday, June 13th, and
THURSDAY, August 14th, all at 7:00 p.m. 
They will be at Susie Thurmond house; 1737 Marsha Lane, Maryland Heights, 63043.
Please bring your favorite snack or dessert to share. 
Susie will be providing beverages.
Please, only nursing or bottle babies; this time is for just us moms.
Please RSVP to rsthur96@charter.net  if you think you will be joining us.
All homeschool moms are invited, so feel free to forward this info to others who might want to attend.

Mineral Area College Drops GED Demand

     Home School Legal Defense Association members Sherry and Norman Kissinger enrolled their son in nearby Mineral Area College in Park Hills, Missouri, but were told he would not be eligible for financial aid unless he had a GED.

     The family called HSLDA for help. Attorney Scott Woodruff wrote a letter to Financial Aid Director Denise Sebastian. He explained that back in the 1990s, the Federal Student Aid Handbook created problems by misconstruing federal law in such a way that some believed, incorrectly, that homeschool graduates must have a GED to be eligible for financial aid. He explained that HSLDA subsequently worked with the U.S. Department of Education to revise the handbook and provide proper guidance. It is now very clear that homeschool graduates are eligible for financial aid without a GED. They simply certify that they completed their secondary education program.

     After receiving this letter, Mineral Area College changed their policy. The Kissingers’ son was allowed to pursue financial aid without a GED. The family passed the word on, and many homeschoolers have subsequently been admitted and allowed to seek financial aid without a GED.

     Community colleges can be an excellent resource for older high school students to get exposure to college-level work and earn college credit while still in high school. Community college teachers are often willing to talk to parents to help them decide if they would be comfortable with their student learning under the teacher.

JUNE, 2008, EVENTS

HOMESCHOOL FRIDAY PLAYDAYS AT THE PARK
Beginning Friday, June 6, 10:00 am until sometime in the afternoon
Pioneer Park, Taille Rd., Des Peres
     Pioneer Park has a playground, swings, soccer field, baseball field, and sprinkler. Bring a picnic lunch and come play!!
     Every Friday this summer.  For more information, contact Sabrina Tessereau at sabri72@charter.net

WEST COUNTY CHRISTIAN HOME EDUCATORS CURRICULUM FAIR
Friday June 6th, 6:30 pm setup, 7:00 pm open       
West County Assembly of God 13431 N. Outer 40 Rd, Chesterfield, MO 63117
     West County Christian Home Educators-Ice Cream Social/ Curriculum Fair…..The ice cream is FREE!!  Just bring your favorite topping or an ice cream side dish, like cookies, and come dig in!!  Everyone is welcome!! If you are interested in having a table at the used curriculum fair, please contact Jill Miller-Lawerence at 636-207-1524 or email jillzhere@gmail.com .  Tables are free to WCCHE members, and non-members can rent a table for $10.00  Come at 6pm for table set up.  At 6:30 those who are selling curriculum may have an advance shopping opportunity.  The doors open for everyone at 7pm.

HOMESCHOOLERS DAY AT THE PARK
Friday June 6th 10:30 to 2:30
Lemay Park, 236 Fannie Ave., St. Louis, Missouri 63125 (Military Ave. off of Lemay Ferry Rd.)
Bring your own food for lunch and something to "share" if you'd like
Any questions, please call Lori Pollina at 636 600 0353.

DAY SPRING'S SPRING PERFORMING ARTS PERFORMANCES
June 6, and 7, 2008
Florissant Civic Centre Theatre, 1 James J. Eagan Dr., Florissant, MO  63033
For information or tickets, call (314) 2