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.

     Er, I mean trouble right here in St. Louis County, MO (can you tell what we've been listening to in the car?).

     On May 30, 2008, the Home School Legal Defense Association, under the headline "Zoning Enforcers Threaten Big Familym" reported, "Longtime HSLDA members Ben and Flora Worth (name changed to protect the family’s privacy), of St. Louis County, Missouri, were surprised to open their door and find a policeman, zoning enforcement officer and a social worker. They said a complaint had been filed about too many people living in the house. The Worths have a large family. After questioning the family, the officials left with a warning: they said they would not 'push it' unless they received more complaints. Shaken, the Worths called Home School Legal Defense Association for help. HSLDA Attorney Scott Woodruff, not wanting the family to live in fear of what might happen if another complaint were filed, promptly called the zoning officer. Woodruff knew that most zoning ordinances do not limit the number of people who can live in a house if they are all of the same immediate family, so he had doubts about the validity of the officials’ threat. He wanted to know exactly what ordinance they were supposedly violating. When Woodruff called the zoning official, he acknowledged that the reason he, the policeman, and social worker had left the Worth home without taking any action against them was not simply a matter of magnanimously letting a zoning violation slide (until the next complaint). He conceded that there was simply no zoning violation in the first place! It’s not against any law—zoning or otherwise—to have a large family." Praise the Lord for the work of HSLDA!

CLASSICAL CONVERSATIONS INFORMATIONAL MEETINGS
Thurs., May 29, 7:00 to 9:00 pm
Lutheran Church of Webster Gardens, 8749 Watson Rd. (Room A), Webster Groves, MO  63119
Questions? Contact Megan Dunham, halfpinthouse@gmail.com , (314) 961-8486
or Debbie Rehmer, debbierehmer@gmail.com , (314) 544-7303
RSVPs appreciated but not required
For more information, got o www.classicalconversations.com

HOMESCHOOL YOUTH GAME NIGHT
Friday, May 30th
1st choice   5 hours of gaming    7:00 - midnight 
                   Cost $12.00 includes pizza and soda
                   Everyone should bring a snack item to share.
 2nd choice  Lock-in (11 hours) 7:00pm - 6:00am Saturday, 31
                   Cost $18.00 includes pizza and soda
                   Everyone should bring a snack item to share.
Sector 19 New Location:  710 Lemay Ferry Rd. (at the intersection of Bayless and Lemay Ferry Rd.)
Ages 13 and up
     Pat Zink writes, "Sector 19 manager Leland, is letting us have a private party homeschoolers only on Friday, May 30th.  He has also lowered  the price. Hooray! However, to make this a private party I need 20 kids to commit to the 5 hour gaming and 10 kids who can stay all night.  Deadline for this commitment is early May 16th.  Leland must give his  regular customers a 2 week notice of the private party. So please check your calendar and sign up now so I can get this event booked.  Parents, the kids do play video games but they also plays cards and can bring their favorite board games to SHARE. The youth do a lot of interacting with each other. They talk, laugh, singing karaoke, play games and just have a wonderful time.  Come check it out for yourself.   I will chaperone all night along with Leland and 2 of his employees. Thanks Pat Zink
     Gaming Center offers: Video games. Card games, Board games, Mini games, Nitendo wii, Playstation 2, Xbox 360, Xbox, P.C. computers.  Please sign up by Friday May 16th.  Contact Pat Zink   pzink463@charter.net ,  314-540-2957

HOMESCHOOL KIDS MANIA EVENT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY--BASEBALL GAME
Fri., May 30, 7:05 pm
Gateway Grizzlies GVS Ball Park, 2301 Grizzlie Bear Blvd., Sauget, IL 62206
     The Kids Mania group (for tweens 9-12) is opening their next event to whole families!!!!  We're going to the Minor League Gateway Grizzles baseball game on Friday, May 30 at 7:05 p.m.
     We're going to sit in the bleachers so tickets will cost $6. Inexpensive enough for the whole family to come!  The stadium is located in Illinois, just across the J.B. Bridge.
     Please send 1) Name; 2) Check for tickets at $6 per ticket made out to Terrie Bick; 3) Carpool needed for child? to Terrie Bick, 5877 Westcliffe Drive, St. Louis, MO 63129 by May 16, no later.
     Charlotte Wagner will distribute tickets at Field Day on May 23rd or you can meet before the game at 6:30 p.m. at the stadium near the box office to pick up tickets from myself or Charlotte.
     If your child would like to go without their family, that's okay too.  If your child goes alone, you might want to send snack money along for goodies.
     We will meet at 6:00 p.m. on the Wal-Mart parking lot at I-270 and Telegraph to carpool children without parents.  Meet in the front of the lot. We will need to know in advance if your child needs a ride so we can plan for drivers accordingly.
     If you have any questions you can call Terrie Bick at 314-293-5877 or Charlotte Wagner at 636-343-0844.  The web site for the Grizzlies is www.gatewaygrizzlies.com
      Directions to GCS Ballpark: Take I-255 to Mousette Lane (Exit 15). West at stop sign onto Sauget Industrial Park Drive, then left at stop sign onto Goose Lake Road. The ballpark will be on the right.

ASTROZONE!!!
May 31, 2008, 12:00 pm - 4:00
Renaissance Hotel Landmark Ballroom, 800 Washington Ave., St. Louis, MO  63101
     Don't know what do to on a Saturday afternoon?  Then come and meet a bunch of scientists, engineers, and other cool people!  You will explore your universe through hands-on activities and get free stuff to take home!
FREE ADMISSION!
    * AstroZone:
      Did you know... well you will just have to come to find out the rest!
    * ASP Family Astro:
      Fun Family Astro games and Night Sky Network demos.
    * Astronomy Cast:
      Live Podcasting... you can be on iTunes too!
    * Chandra:
      Take a Microsoft and Google tour of Chandra images... see the univers in multi-wavelengths!
    * Discovery Dome:
      Come in and take a tour of the night sky!
    * NASA GSFC Our Amazing Universe!
      Design your own exoplanets and help us determine How Big? How Far? and How Old? things in our universe are!
    * NASA's Kepler Mission:
      Play with a gravity simulator and design your own Solar System!
    * NASA Science Mission:
      Fly through the cosmos in Cosmic Collisions narrated by Robert Redford.
    * National Radio Astronomy Observatory:
      This is your chance to be a radio wave detective... can you find the radio source?
    * Outreach to Space:
      Have you ever wondered: What is out there? What is life in Space like? What happens next?
    * Starlab Planetarium I:
      Turn the day into night and ake a tour of the St. Louis night sky.
    * Starlab Planetarium II:
      You won't have to fight to see this one... there are two of them!
    * St. Louis Astronomical Society:
      Astronomer 101...
Website:  http://www.imascientist.org/astrozone/
*** AstroZone is brought to you by: The American Astronomical Society, Rochester Institute of Technology Insight Lab, and NASA Solar Dynamics Observatory

NATIONAL MEETING ON ASTRONOMY EDUCATION
May 31 and June 1, 2008
Renaissance Grand Hotel, 800 Washington Ave., St. Louis, MO  63101
     Educators from around the U.S. (and more than a dozen other countries) will gather in St. Louis to discuss the upcoming
International Year of Astronomy, and how best to share the excitement of observing the sky and understanding the universe with students, teachers, the media, and the public at large. This national meeting on astronomy education and outreach in St. Louis features hands-on workshops open to educators at minimal cost.
     During the weekend of May 31 and June 1, there will be a series of hands-on workshops to help classroom and informal (might not "informal" include homeschoolers?) educators convey the excitement of astronomy more effectively. Scientists and educators from NASA, major observatories, and educational organizations will offer full day and half-day workshop that do not assume that participants have a strong background in astronomy.
Among the weekend workshops being offered for educators at all levels are:
* Telling Science Like a Story: Storytelling from Many Cultures
* In the Footsteps of Galileo: Helping Students Recreate Some of the "AHA! Moments" from Galileo's Work
* The New Media and Education: Facebook, YouTube, Second Life, etc.
* Amateur Astronomers as Champions of Astronomy Outreach
* Astronomy Activities for After-school and Community Programs
* Preserving Dark Skies: Activities to Raise Public Awareness of "Light Pollution"
     Weekend registration is only $25 per day. The workshops will take place at the Renaissance Grand Hotel right across the street from the St. Louis Convention Center. Some of the workshops are very close to being sold out, so we urge interested educators to reserve a spot as soon as possible.
     For more information, see: http://www.astrosociety.org/events/2008mtg/workshops.html
     This unusual program is part of the 212th Meeting of the American Astronomical Society, the main organization of professional astronomers in the U.S. The educational sessions are being organized as a meeting-within-a-meeting by the Astronomical Society of the Pacific, a national organization whose primary mission is education and outreach.
     The United Nations has declared 2009 the International Year of Astronomy (IYA), to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Galileo turning his telescope to the heavens and changing forever humanity's view of itself. Events and programs will be offered throughout the U.S. and the world during 2009 and beyond.

FAMILIES FOR HOME EDUCATION REGION 3 USED BOOK AND CURRICULUM SALE
Saturday, May 31, 2008, 9:30 am - 12:00 noon
Roger T. Sermon Center, Noland and Truman Rds., Independence, MO
     The official Families for Home Education Region 3 Used Book and Curriculum Sale will be held at the Roger T. Sermon Center located on the southeast corner of Noland Road and Truman Road in Independence. Admittance is free. The cost to sell used curriculum will be $7 per space for FHE members and $10 for non-members. Tables will be available on a first come, first served basis. There are fewer tables available than there have been in years past. If you provide your own table, you will be guaranteed a space in the gymnasium. Please remember this sale is for used curriculum materials and books only, no retail sales allowed. Send a completed form and a Self Addressed Stamped Envelope (SASE) with your check made payable to FHE Reg. 3 to:
FHE Reg. 3
17078 Hook Road
Higginsville, MO 64037-9133
     Do you want an opportunity to shop before the general public is admitted? Volunteer to help set up! If interested, please contact Susan Mehl at mrsunz@ctcis.net , 660-584-8539, or 1 877 MY MO FHE (1-877-696-6343) Mailbox 3
***The SASE is REQUIRED to receive your confirmation letter!!! It will be mailed approximately one week before the sale.***
NAME__________________________________________________________
PHONE__________________________________________________________
EMAIL__________________________________________________________
NUMBER OF SPACES NEEDED________ X $7.00 (Members)= $_____________
NUMBER OF SPACES NEEDED_________ X $10.00 (Non-Members)= $_____________
TOTAL AMOUNT ENCLOSED $_____________
Please mark one of the following choices:
________ I can provide my own table(s).
________ I am requesting __________tables. (This is NOT a guarantee you will receive one!)

SOCCER TOURNAMENT
Saturday & Sunday, May 31st, June 1st
Vetta Sports Concord, 12320 Old Tesson Ferry Rd., Concord Village, MO  63128
The first annual “Joe Kelley” (out of the sun), Indoor soccer tournament to benefit skin cancer Research.
Cost: $225 per team; 3 (40 min) games guaranteed
 Divisions: Men’s A
Men’s B
Men’s over 30 A
Men’s over 30 B
Coed Open
Prizes: 1st place each division $100 bar tab.
2nd place each division $50 bar tab.
BBQ by Kenricks Meat Market
Attendance prizes. 50/50 Drawing.
     Please contact Patty and Tim Kelley by E-mail at Kelleytourn08@hotmail.com  or call (314) 598-5224 if interested in signing up a team or donating items for prizes. We are grateful and promise a good time for all.
     Please come and join the Kelley family to remember Joe by playing or watching the game Joe loved so much.  Thank you for your support.

FREE LECTURE ON ASTRONOMY
Monday, June 2, 2008, 8 pm to 9:30 pm
St. Louis Convention Center Convention Center Ballroom (rooms 223-226)
701 Convention Plaza, On Washington Avenue at 8th Street, St. Louis, Missouri
a non-technical public talk by Dava Sobel
"How Galileo and the Telescope Changed Everything"
     Andrew Fraknoi is an astronomer and educator who is helping to coordinate a free public lecture presented by The American Astronomical Society on the 400th anniversary of the telescope at the St. Louis Convention Center for local teachers, students,
families, astronomy enthusiasts, etc.  It is free and open to the public.
     The U.N. has designated 2009 as the International Year of Astronomy, celebrating the 400th anniversary of Galileo turning his telescope to the skies and revolutionizing humanity’s view of its place in the universe. Dava Sobel, the best-selling science writer and former reporter for The New York Times, will discuss Galileo’s background, explore the artistic and musical skills that he brought to his scientific work, and show how his development of the telescope changed the course of his life and set a new direction for the science of astronomy.
     Dava Sobel is an award-winning science writer, who is the author of such books as Is Anyone Out There? (with Frank Drake), Longitude, Galileo’s Daughter, Letters to Father, and The Planets. She has written about science for such magazines as Audubon, Discover, and The New Yorker. In 2006, she was the Robert Vare Nonfiction Writer-in-Residence at the University of Chicago. She received the 2001 Public Service Award of the National Science Board for fostering public awareness of science. Galileo’s Daughter was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in biography in 2000. Two episodes of the PBS series NOVA have been based on her books and a third is in production. She is currently at work on a stage play about Copernicus.
     This presentation is part of the Second Century Lectures Program, celebrating the Centennial of the American Astronomical Society, the main professional organization of astronomers in the United States. The Society will be meeting in St. Louis from May 31 to June 5. Part of its meeting will be a symposium on "Preparing for the International Year of Astronomy," held in cooperation with the Astronomical Society of the Pacific.
     For more information, contact Andrew Fraknoi at fraknoiandrew@fhda.edu .

LIFELIGHT YOUTH THEATER 9TH ANNUAL SUMMER DRAMA WORKSHOPS
     “Building Character on Stage.”  Classes are held at Grace Community Chapel (GCC), 7661 Mexico Road, St. Peters, MO 63376; Or Dardenne Presbyterian Church (DPC), 7400 Highway N, O’Fallon, MO 63368.
     LifeLight Youth Theatre is a dynamic group where children and youth will find training and experiences in the theatre arts, a sense of what excellence requires, valuable friendships, connection to community, and honor for God, the family, and the individual. We strive to enrich the lives of individuals, families, and the community through experiences in the arts within the atmosphere of positive Biblical values.
     You may register by phone  636-978-7852 or visit www.lifelightyouththeatre.com and you can download summer registration forms there.  Please bring a sack lunch, snack, and drink for all day workshops. Home school Drama begins Monday, September 8, 2008 
     There are One Day Workshops and Week Long Performance Workshops.  In each “Week Long Performance Workshop Camp” students will be instructed in stage presence, characterization, improv, dance, choreography, proper vocal technique and projection, learning musical numbers, building the set & props, and stage makeup by being in workshop sessions and going through the rehearsal/performance process.  On the last day of each camp, family and friends are invited to a performance of the musical or play. Auditions will be held for High School Musical and Godspell (everyone is guaranteed a part), and this way you will know your character and be able to memorize lines and songs before camp begins.
     Monday, June 2, 10 AM to 2 PM: IMPROV & COMEDY WORKSHOP- New every year.  A student FAVORITE!  This one-day workshop of Improvisation with a focus on comedy acting helps students to think on their feet while acting with greater clarity, wit, and skill!  Kid’s class Ages 7 -11, Tuition $20.00 (GCC)
     Monday, June 9, 10 AM to 3 PM.  IMPROV & COMEDY WORKSHOP- New every year.  A student FAVORITE!  This one-day workshop of Improvisation with a focus on comedy acting helps students to think on their feet while acting with greater clarity, wit, and skill!  Teen’s  class ages 11-18, Tuition $25.00 (GCC)
     Mon. June 16 or Tues. Aug. 5, 10 am - 3 pm:  Play in a Day.  Ages 6 – 12, Kids work together to conceive, write and perform a play of their own creation! Parents and other guests can enjoy the fruits of their kids' labor at the end of the day. Play in a Day is as unique as each group of children.  Tuition $25.00(GCC)
     Monday, June 23, 10 AM to 4 PM:  INTRO TO SHAKESPEARE, Ages 10-18.  All the world's a stage, and your student will be the player focusing on “playing Shakespeare” and will consist of fun, energetic ,interactive games and exercises providing insights into the text of the play. We will study puns, words & phrases he invented, fencing, & scene study.  Tuition $25.00 (GCC)
     Monday, June 30, 10 AM to 4 PM:  15 MINUTE MUSICAL “High School Musical,” Ages 6 -9.  In just one day, students will put together a 15-minute version of  High School Musical.  Participants will work on short scenes, group songs, and basic movement that will allow them to gain new skills and improve those they already possess.  The day will conclude with a performance for families and friends of the participants. Tuition $30.00 (DPC)
     Mon., July 14 – Fri., July 18, 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM each day:  High school musical, Ages 9-18.  By popular demand, the smash hit musical based on the Disney Channel Movie hits the LifeLight Youth Theatre stage this summer! Come be a part of the fun. Tuition $135.00 (GCC & performance at DPC)
      Mon., July 28 - Fri., Aug. 1, 10 AM - 3 PM each day:   DISNEY’S 101 DALMATIONS, Ages 8–16.  Disney’s 101 Dalmatians Kids will give students a chance to improve their knowledge of theatre while putting together a workshop production of a 30-minute musical.  In a loving home in the city of 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.  Tuition $120.00 (GCC & performance at DPC)
     Monday, Aug. 4, 10 am - 4 pm:  lIGHTS, cAMERA, aCTION!!, Ages 9 – 18.  Students will write an improvisational screenplay and form “film teams”, and become directors ,actors, camera operators, sound/light grips, and designers. Students will create a short film with the dialogue the class created together and teams will film two takes. After lunch, the students pick a new position.  We will have a “premiere” of our films at the end of class. Tuition $30.00 (GCC)
     Mon. Aug. 11 – Fri., Aug. 15, 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM each day: godspell the musical, Ages 9-18.  Based on the Gospel according to St. Matthew, and featuring a sparkling score by Stephen Schwartz, “Godspell” boasts a string of well-loved songs, including the hit “Day By Day”. As the cast performs “Prepare Ye The Way Of The Lord”, “Learn Your Lessons Well”, “All For The Best”, “All Good Gifts”, and “Beautiful City”, the parables of Jesus Christ come hearteningly to life. We stay true to the Gospel and at the end of the play Jesus has been resurrected.  Tuition $120.00 (DPC)

SCOSAG SUMMER CAMPS
St. Louis City Open Studio and Gallery, 4255 Arsenal St. Louis, MO 63116
     There is still plenty of room for your little camper in SCOSAG's Super Fun Summer Camp.  Our one of a kind camps combine a whole lot of art, music, water play, historical lessons, and wacky zany good times!    April is our busiest month for summer camp sign-ups, so get your registration in today!
     Session 1: SOUNDING OUT!  June 2nd - June 13th.  Pow! Bam! Boing! Rock-n-roll, Jazz, Blues, Classical, and maybe a moment of peace and quiet! Come make some noise with us! In addition to the usual plethora of camp games and art projects, this session will be rounded out with instrument building and playing, song composition, and even some sound recording activities. Find your own voice and let loose!
     Session 2:  It's Our Community.  June 16th - June 27th.  Join us and discover who and what makes our city and its neighborhoods tick. Campers will investigate individual roles in communities and create their own interactive communities. Creative play, imaginative map making, and multimedia sculpture help create important pieces of the social quilt work. 
     Session 3:  Cultural Connections.  July 7th - July 18th.  Investigate the world surrounding us: looking at St. Louis and abroad. We will think, talk, and make art reflecting the interesting facts of life from around the corner and around the world. Inspired by international artists, activities include claywork, painting, drawing and collage. Sample foods from distant countries! Make puppets and costumes to act out stories from multi-cultural history and mythology. 
     Session 4:  TIME TRAVEL Camp!  July 21st - August 1st.  Jump in our SCOSAG Time Machine and visit different times, lands, and people. Get a glimpse into the past and help create the future! Multimedia activities and projects will be based on interesting people who have shaped our world and landmarks from the human kind time line! Hang on tight!
     Did Somebody Say: ART CAMP?!  August 4th - August 15th.  Do you like to draw all day and paint all the time? This session focuses on the ins and outs of art creation! Not a Picasso? Doesn't matter! Campers of all skill levels will learn drawing basics and work in clay, paint, bookmaking, and printmaking. Learn a little bit about history's greatest artists too!
     For more information or to register, go to www.scosag.org/summer .

BOB JONES UNIVERSITY PRESS HOMESCHOOL SOLUTIONS MEETINGS IN MISSOURI
     Mon., June 2, 2008, 12-7 pm; Truman Hotel, 1510 Jefferson St. (Hwy. 54 at Jefferson St. exit), Jefferson City, MO
     Tues., June 3, 2008, 12-7 pm; Holiday Inn, 3499 Rider Tr. S (I-70 at Earth City Expy. exit), St. Louis, MO
     Mon., June 9, 2008, 12-7 pm; Regency Inn, 4200 S. Noland Rd. (I-70 at Noland Rd. exit), Independence, MO
     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 bjupress.com/go/specials .
     Free shipping on all materials ordered at BJUP solutions meetings.  For a complete listing of meetings by stated, visit 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.

HOMESCHOOL STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING PROGRAM
Program lasts 11 weeks, starting the week of June 2 and ending the week of August 15
Sports Medicine and Training Center, 20 Allen Ave., Suite #300, Webster Groves, MO 63119
Session Times:
Please indicate which days you prefer when you call to pre-register:
Monday through Thursday 12:00 noon - 1:00 pm & 1:00 - 2:00 pm
     The Sports Medicine & Training Center is proud to offer comprehensive strength and conditioning services for home schooled
students. The goal of the program is to maximize overall fitness levels and decrease the risk of injury through a systematic approach of technique training, strength training and conditioning exercises.
     PROGRAM  BENEFITS  INCLUDE:
•  Increased functional  muscle strength
•  Improved endurance
•  Increased flexibility and mobility
•  Elevated body awareness
•  Decreased risk of injury     
     Program Details: All sessions will be guided and supervised.  Space in each group is limited to 12 clients per time slot, so  you MUST pre-register.  Participants who pay balance in-full for 10 weeks receive 11th week FREE.   Parents are welcome to participate at the same time as their children in adult-only session.
     To sign up, call (314) 961-3787.  Program Cost (Payment Plan Can Be Established If Necessary):  11 weeks - 2 sessions/week (22 sessions) @ $7/sessionTotal = $154.  Home School Contact: Pat Zink • (314) 540-2957 • pzink463@charter.net  

SUMMER CLAY CLASSES
Weck Barn, 2016 Stemler Rd., Columbia, IL 62236
     Option one - Classes will meet twice a week on both Monday and Thursday mornings for two and a half weeks. Cost is $ 90 and includes clay, glazes, firing and the use of tools. Session One - June 2, 5, 9, 12 and 16; and/or Session Two - June 23, 25, 30, July 3 and 7; Possible Session Three - July 10, 14, 17, 21, 24.  Monday/Thursday classes will meet from 9:00 - 10:30 for ages 9 to 13 or 14 and from 11:00 - 12:30 for ages 14 and up. (Adults are welcome to sign up for these Monday/Thursday classes).  There may be an option for younger children from 9 to 10:30 if there is interest.
     Option two - Classes will meet once a week on Wednesday mornings for five consecutive weeks.   Cost is $ 90 and includes clay, glazes, firing and the use of tools.  Dates are June 4, 11, 18, 25 and July 2.  This class will be for ages 8 thru 10 on Wednesdays from 10 to 11:30 AM.   There will also a class for ages 5 to 7; he cost for the younger kids class is $ 60 and is limited to 5 participants.
     Nancy Weck will once again be offering clay classes in her barn studio this summer.  It is located just outside of Columbia Illinois, about 30 minutes from downtown St. Louis. Nancy has a Master of Fine Arts degree with an emphasis in Ceramics and she teaches both Ceramics and Art Appreciation at the local community college in Belleville, Illinois during the school year. This will be the third summer she has offered clay classes in the barn. Previous student projects have included making place settings, wizard statues, covered jars, and ocarinas. This summer's clay classes will be one and a half hours long and meet 5 times each during the months of June and/or July. There will be two options this summer. Option one meets only once a week for five weeks and the second option meets twice a week. Hopefully the second option will allow people signed up for other types of camps to fit artwork into their busy summer schedules.
     Please contact Nancy Weck at 618-281-9816 or bnweck@htc.net for further information and to sign up for clay classes. Please contact her by May 30th if you wish to participate. Class size is limited to 8 - 10 students.

SCCHE SUMMER DISSECTION LAB CLASSES
Tues. and Wed., June 3 and 4, 2008, 9:00 - 3:00
Basic dissection labs (worm, starfish, crayfish, perch, and frog):
Tues., June 10, 2008 from 9:00 - 3:30.
Fetal Pig Dissection Lab
Grace Community Chapel, 7661 Mexico Road, St. Peters, MO 63376.
     There are still some slots available in the summer high school dissection labs offered through SCCHE.  Margaret Porch and Phebe Martin will be there to assist your high schoolers in all the fun of dissection!
     Cost for the Basic Dissection Lab is $55 per student if postmarked by May 23.  After May 23, the cost for registering increases to $60.   Each student will dissect his or her own animals.
     Cost for fetal pig lab is $45 per student with two students sharing a large fetal pig if postmarked by May 23.   After May 23, the cost for registering increases to $50.
     Students signing up for the fetal pig lab must have already completed a basic high school dissection lab (it does not have to be the one offered here). These labs are for high school students only. Class sizes are limited to 24 students. Animals and all equipment provided. Theme appropriate snacks also provided (gummy worms, anyone???).
     Students need to bring a sack lunch. There is a refrigerator and a microwave oven at the church if needed.  If you have questions on either lab, please email Margaret Porch at sccheleaders@gmail.com  or frontporch80@gmail.com .
     NOTE: Since the biology dissection labs involve only a couple of days in the summer, If you are interested in these labs and are not a member of SCCHE, an additional $5.00 building usage fee will be assessed to non members. Members of SCCHE pay the above rates.
     For a registration form, please go to: http://www.scche-mo.com/activities/biolab  

A SEMINAR FOR THE HOMESCHOOLER GOING TO COLLEGE
Wed., June 4, 2008, from 6:30 to 8:00 pm
Dorsey Gym, Columbia College Campus, 1001 Rogers St., Columbia, MO  65216
     This seminar will provide advice and guidance for homeschooled students and their families about the college process.
     The special guest speaker will be Dr. Terry Smith, Executive Vice President and Dean for Academic Affairs at Columbia College.  Dr. Smith and his wife homeschooled three of their four children and are strong supporters of the mission of homeschooling.
     To RSVP or ask questions, contact Kathy Monnig, Homeschool Liaison for Columbia College at 573-875-7351 or klmonnig@ccis.edu .
     Appetizers and snacks will be provided.  For directions, go to http://www.ccis.edu/campusmap.asp .

HOMESCHOOL SUMMER BOWLING LEAGUE
Wednesdays for 10-12 weeks beginning June 4; 9:30 a.m.
Sunset Lanes, 7777 Watson Road, Shrewsbury, MO
$7.00 per week
     Sponsored by St. Louis Homeschooling Activities, Resources, and Encouragement (S.H.A.R.E.), the Homeschool Summer Bowling League (Homeschool Juniors) is open to all homeschooler and their friends.
     Price includes 3 games of bowling, shoe rental and trophy fund with end-of-season party...Trophies awarded at the end for 1st place, High Game, High Series and High Average for both boys and girls.
      NOTE:  Don't worry about family vacations or VBS interfering with this league.  You can always pre-bowl and it counts in the statistics!
     For information or to sign up, contact Nancy Ockrassa at 314-537-4775

DAY SPRING'S SPRING PERFORMING ARTS PERFORMANCES
June 5, 6, and 7, 2008
Florissant Civic Centre Theatre, 1 James J. Eagan Dr., Florissant, MO  63033
For information or tickets, call (314) 291-8878,
e-mail office@dayspringarts-ed.org , or visit www.dayspringarts-ed.org  

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.

CHRISTIAN HOME EDUCATORS FELLOWSHIP (CHEF) USED CURRICULUM SALE
Saturday, June 7, 2008, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 noon
Parkway Northeast Middle School, 181 Coeur de Ville, St. Louis, MO.
     Sellers may begin setting up at 8:00 a.m. Tables are $12 for an 8-ft. table. (We pay for building rental, table rental, and table delivery charge.) To register for a table, send your check payable to CHEF, c/o Teresa May, 3110 Fulton Way, St. Ann, MO 63074, or contact her at mail to: may11family@sbcglobal.net , 314-428-9086.
     Directions: Take Hwy. 270 to the Ladue Road exit. Go west on Ladue to Coeur de Ville (looks like outer road). Turn right on Coeur de Ville; school is first drive on the left. If parking lot is full, go to second drive.

======================================================================
From the HSLDA E-lert Service...
======================================================================
 
 
Missouri: Correction--Highway Patrol Bill Fails to Gain Passage
 
Dear HSLDA Members and Friends:

The bill that would have created a level educational field for all
persons applying to the State Highway Patrol unfortunately failed to
gain passage.  (This corrects our e-lert dated May 19, 2008.)

S.B. 723 was non-controversial.  It simply provided that anyone who
completed high school in compliance with Missouri law was eligible to
apply to become a highway patrol officer (the law previously required
an "accredited" education or a GED).

It passed the Senate unanimously on February 28.  The House passed a
slightly modified version by a vote of 141 to 7 on May 14.  Even with
this overwhelming margin, it had to go back to the Senate for approval
because the House modified the bill slightly.

The Senate put the bill in line to be acted upon.  However, other
bills claimed the attention of the Senate, and the clock ran out on
the legislative session before the Senate could perform the
essentially administrative job of voting on the bill.  There is no
doubt the Senate would have approved the bill overwhelmingly if a vote
had taken place.

We look forward to this bill becoming law during the next legislative
session.
 
 
======================================================================
The HSLDA E-lert Service is a service of:
 
Home School Legal Defense Association
P.O. Box 3000
Purcellville, Virginia 20134
Phone: (540) 338-5600
Fax: (540) 338-2733
Email: info@hslda.org
Web: http://www.hslda.org
 
----------------------------------------------------------------------
How To Subscribe:
 
- Subscribe to the HSLDA E-lert Service at our website:
 
  https://secure.hslda.org/hslda/elert/account.asp?Process=Subscribe
 
- Or send an email with name and complete mailing address to:
 
  subscribe@hslda.org

     On Saturday, May 24, I received the following notice about a contest for children sponsored by Subway (the sub sandwich restaurant) that specifically excludes homeschoolers.  Now, I do not necessarily endorse or support any boycotts.  My family makes our decisions as to whom we shall patronize based on our own criteria, but I would not demand that others make the same decisions because everyone's situation is different.  However, I am passing this along for your information and consideration.  First, I checked the website and it does specifically say:

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. Contest is open only to legal residents of the Untied States who are currently over the age of 18 and have children who attend elementary, private or parochial schools that serve grades PreK-6. No home schools will be accepted. 

     I copied and pasted the above directly from the website.  Second, I am sorely tempted to make the comment that the website must have been put together by a public schooler but I will resist the temptation because typographical errors (Untied States) can happen to anyone.

     Kim Bowlin wrote on Fri May 23, 2008 3:14 pm (PDT) :

Please join us in boycotting Subway restaurants for their exclusion
of "home schools" in their "Every Sandwich Tells a Story" contest.
Visit http://www.subwayfreshbuzz.com/kids/contest.aspx  to see for
yourself that though they encourage students in every other educational
setting to participate, they specifically exclude "home schools".
Also, the contest is only open to legal residents of the Untied
States. (This statement found at very bottom of page, white letters on
green background: "NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. Contest is open only to legal residents of the Untied States who are currently
over the age of 18 and have children who attend elementary, private or
parochial schools that serve grades PreK-6. No home schools will be
accepted.") Could anyone please find that on the map and let me know
where such country exists?
Thanks!

SOUTH CITY OPEN STUDIO AND GALLOERY OPEN HOUSE
May 22, 2008, from 5 - 9 pm
SCOSAG's Potter's Workshop, 4300 Manchester Rd., St. Louis, MO  63110
     On May 22th from 5pm-9pm at the Potter's Workshop for St. Louis City Open Studio and Gallery's (SCOSaG) you are invited to attend the second DIY Open House. While there enjoy free bites, drinks, and music. Interact with local artists by designing a t-shirt with Ben Goeke and crafts with Jessi Cerutti.
     SCOSaG's Open House will be held at the Potter's Workshop. It is located 4300 Manchester at Tower Grove Ave., St. Louis, Missouri 63110. Admission is FREE and open to the public. Come out and be ready to get those creative juices flowing!   Please note this is an adult only event.
     It is the Mission of the St. Louis City Open Studio and Gallery to provide a safe and educational environment for children to explore the Arts and also to strengthen the ties within the St. Louis neighborhood, its families, and its youth.  For more information visit www.scosag.org , or contact Contact: Carolyn Simon, Executive Director at Telephone: (314) 865-0060 or Email: scosag@gmail.com .

HOMESCHOOL P. E. PICNIC TIME
Friday, May 23, 2008, 10:30 am to 2:30 pm
10:30 to 12:00--organized fun games
12:00 to 1:00--bring your own lunch
1:00 to ???--baseball
Lemay Park, Military Ave., Lemay, MO  63125
THIS EVENT IS FREE!!!!
     Once again S.H.A.R.E. is the proud sponsor of the Salvation Army/ Homeschool P.E. Picnic.  Everyone is welcome whether you are in the P. E. classes or not.
     BUT-YOU MUST RSVP to Kerrie Tate ( kertate@aol.com ) WITH THE NAMES AND AGES OF YOUR CHILDREN so we know how TO PLAN THE GAMES.

SUMMER AT THE MISSOURI BOTANICAL GARDEN
The Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Blvd., St. Louis, MO.
     Coming to the Garden May 23 through Aug. 17 is Seasons of the Heartland, an exhibition of stunning photos of Missouri and Illinois landscapes, from the pages of Midwest Living magazine.
     The Arbor Day Foundation’s interactive traveling exhibit, “Exploring Trees Inside and Out,” presented by Doubletree, lets you climb into a large oak, explore the inside of an oversized leaf, crawl through a giant log and more inside the Brookings Interpretive Center, May 24 through Sept. 1.
     Wednesday evenings from June 4 through Aug. 13, the popular Whitaker Music Festival outdoor concert series returns. Music begins at 7:30 p.m., with free admission after 5 p.m. The Doris I. Schnuck Children’s Garden is open on concert nights and free from 5 to 7 p.m.
     A narrated tram tour offers a relaxing, informative way see much of the beautiful grounds in just 30 minutes. Hop off at Tower Grove House for a free guided tour through Mr. Shaw’s country estate. Stroll through the pincushion gardens, maze, and gorgeous flower beds of the newly-renovated Doris Waters Lichtenstein Victorian District, to be dedicated on June 13. Nearby, over 1,250 varieties of daylilies reach peak bloom in June and July. Head to the Cherbonnier English Woodland Garden for a cool and shady respite under the trees, then explore the Japanese Garden, Seiwa-en, to find sacred lotus rising from the muddy lake waters, blooming in June.
      On the July 4, admission is free to all visitors. Roses, the favorite flower of Garden founder Henry Shaw, bloom all summer. Climbing varieties cover the circular white fence and trellises of the Gladney Rose Garden. The Lehmann Rose Garden features the newest rose hybrids.
     Visit for free on July 24 in honor of Henry Shaw’s 208th birthday, with old-fashioned entertainment outdoors from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Start the day at Trailnet’s free “Petal Pedal” bicycle ride from the Garden to neighboring Tower Grove Park from 10 to 11 a.m.
     Need ideas or plants for your home garden? Browse several shows and sales hosted by local plant societies throughout the summer for roses, bonsai, lilies, daylilies, African violets, iris, orchids, carnivorous plants or selections for a rock or water garden. Visit the Garden’s Web site at mobot.org for dates. The Missouri Botanical Garden Daylily Association offers plants from the Garden’s own displays on Aug. 2.
     The Henry Shaw Cactus Society’s big show and sale is set for Aug. 9 through 17. Bring empty pots accumulated from summer gardening to the Plastic Pot Recycling collection center, open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily at 4500 Shaw Blvd.
      In August, giant Victoria water lilies spread several feet in diameter in the reflecting pools outside the Climatron® conservatory. Flower beds and hanging baskets at the Kemper Center for Home Gardening showcase summer annuals and perennials. The outstanding vegetable garden might inspire you to enter NatureSweet’s “Best Homegrown Tomato Challenge” on Aug. 16.
      Summer draws to a close with the annual Japanese Festival, held Labor Day weekend. A sumo-sized line up of cultural activities includes wrestling demonstrations, taiko drumming, tea ceremonies, and candlelit walks through the Japanese Garden at sundown.
     Spend sunny summer days in St. Louis at the world-renowned Missouri Botanical Garden. See 79 acres in bloom, explore new exhibits, enjoy free concerts and events, shop for your home garden and more! Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, extended until 8 p.m. on Wednesdays from Memorial Day through Labor Day.  Grounds open at 7 a.m. every Wednesday and Saturday.
     An exciting, colorful addition to the Garden this summer is the Niki pop art exhibition of 40 imaginative sculptures created from fiberglass, glass, mirrors, ceramic tiles and semi-precious stones. Many of the works are meant to be touched or explored from the inside out. The exhibition is open daily and on “Niki Nights,” Thursdays from 5 to 9 p.m.
     Throughout the summer, drop in for Great Green Adventures family programs inside the two-acre Children’s Garden on Tuesdays through Fridays, 10 a.m. to noon, and Saturdays from 1 to 3 p.m. Summer day camps and programs for all ages are offered in June and July; call (314) 577-9506 or visit www.mobot.org/education .
     Admission is $8 adults (St. Louis City and County residents, $4 adults, $2 seniors). Children 12 and under and members are free. Special rates apply for some events and amenities.  Admission is free for St. Louis City and County residents every Wednesday and Saturday until noon (exception: special admission rate events). Visit www.mobot.org  for details or call the recorded line at (314) 577-9400.  Tower Grove House is free with Garden admission. Children’s Garden is $3 for age 12 and under, free for adults.
     The Missouri Botanical Garden’s mission is “to discover and share knowledge about plants and their environment, in order to preserve and enrich life.” Today, 149 years after opening, the Missouri Botanical Garden is a National Historic Landmark and a center for science, conservation, education and horticultural display.
     The Missouri Botanical Garden is located at 4344 Shaw Blvd. in south St. Louis, just south of Interstate 44 at the Vandeventer-Kingshighway exit. (Note: A section of the I-64/U.S. 40 highway is under construction through 2009. Before traveling, check www.thenewi64.org for updates. Go to www.GetAroundStL.com for other helpful information.)
     Park for free on site and two blocks west at the Shaw-Vandeventer intersection. The Garden is easily accessible by taking the MetroLink commuter rail line to the Central West End station and picking up a Metro bus (www.metrostlouis.org ). For general information, log on to www.mobot.org or call the 24-hour Garden Line recording at (314) 577-9400 or 1-800-642-8842. For membership information, call (314) 577-5118 during weekday business hours. Interested in learning more about volunteer opportunities? Call (314)-577-5187 or go online to www.mobot.org/volunteer . The Missouri Botanical Garden is a tobacco-free environment.

16TH ANNUAL RAGTIME RALLY
Mon., May 26, 2008, 10 am to 6 pm
Scott Joplin House State Historic Site, 2658 Delmar Ave., St. Louis, MO  63108
     Artists include: St. Louis Ragtimes, Dr. Dave Majchrzak, Richard Egan, John Remmer, Sue Keiler, "Perfessor " Bill Edwards, Donald Ryan, The Tichenor Family, and Morgan Siever.
     Programs include: "The Banjo in Ragtime" educational program by Bob Ault; Historic Sheet Music Display; "Women in Ragtine" by Nan Bostick; Childgrove Country Dancers; "From Morning til' Night" Traveling Exhibit; Player Piano Seminar; and Open Piano Time--Come and Play.
     Community Booths and Local Vendors include: STLARC--refreshments; Friends of Scott Joplin; St. Louis Area State Parks; St. Louis BOy Scout Troop #308--Barbecue and Refreshments; Missouri Valley Model A Restorers Club.
     For details and times, contact the historic site at (314) 340-5790 or the Missouri Department of Natural Resources at 1-800-334-6946 (voice) or 1-800-379-2410 (telecommunications device for the hearing impaired)

CLASSICAL CONVERSATIONS INFORMATIONAL MEETINGS
Tues., May 27, or Thurs., May 29, 7:00 to 9:00 pm
Lutheran Church of Webster Gardens, 8749 Watson Rd. (Room A), Webster Groves, MO  63119
Questions? Contact Megan Dunham, halfpinthouse@gmail.com , (314) 961-8486
or Debbie Rehmer, debbierehmer@gmail.com , (314) 544-7303
RSVPs appreciated but not required
For more information, got o www.classicalconversations.com

JA BIZTOWN HOMESCHOOL VISIT DAY
Wednesday, May 28, 2008, 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Junior Achievement , 17339 N. Outer Forty Road, Chesterfield, MO 63005
Northwest corner of Boone's Crossing
This is a 2nd additional day.
     Enroll today by completing the JA BizTown homeschool enrollment form at www.jastl.org .  (A confirmation letter will be mailed to you via regular mail, after receiving your e-mail registration information.)
     Cost: $30 for the first child in a family, $20 for any additional family children.  Ages: Ages 10-13 or 4th-7th grade.
     What happens after I enroll my student for the homeschool visit day?
Parents attend a training session and pick up curriculum.
Approximately 15 lessons are taught at home.
Parent CurriculumTraining: Tuesday, April 1, 2008 – 6:00-7:30 p.m. (at JA offices)
     Students will apply for jobs and eventually get together in small business groups. We will organize multiple business groups by location throughout the St. Louis metro area.
     Students work in assigned business groups for 7-8 lessons.  Details on meeting place & time for business groups will vary.
     Homeschool students come to JA BizTown for a student visit day on April 15, 2008 and are prepared to assume job responsibilities, manage bank accounts, and experience life as a consumer and employer.
      Questions or to request a presentation on JA BizTown at a Homeschool event: Call Jenny Eickhorst, 636-728-0707, ext. 237; Fax:  636-728-0708; Toll free:  1-800-342-7119; E-Mail:  jeickhorst@jastl.org  

SPARTAN BASKETBALL CAMP
May 28-30 and June 2-4
Morning Session: 9:00 AM -12:00 Noon
Afternoon Session: 1:00 – 4:00 PM
Missouri Baptist University, One College Park Drive, St. Louis, MO 63141
Boys and Girls ages 8-18
Teaching the fundamentals of basketball Morning Session-Emphasis on Shooting Skills.
Afternoon Session-Emphasis on Guard and Post play Cost: $60.00 per session or $100.00 for full day
For information, call Coach Ray Farrell  314-392-2267
Name:________________________________Age_____________
Address:______________________________________________
City:___________________State_______Zip Code___________
Phone:__________________E-Mail:_______________________
School:_______________________________Grade___________
Session: May 28-30: AM_____ PM_____
June 2-4: AM_____ PM_____
Please return this form with a check payable to Ray Farrell. You can mail it to:
Ray Farrell, Head Basketball Coach
Missouri Baptist University
One College Park Drive
St. Louis, MO 63141

HOMESCHOOL YOUTH GAME NIGHT
Friday, May 30th
1st choice   5 hours of gaming    7:00 - midnight 
                   Cost $12.00 includes pizza and soda
                   Everyone should bring a snack item to share.
 2nd choice  Lock-in (11 hours) 7:00pm - 6:00am Saturday, 31
                   Cost $18.00 includes pizza and soda
                   Everyone should bring a snack item to share.
Sector 19 New Location:  710 Lemay Ferry Rd. (at the intersection of Bayless and Lemay Ferry Rd.)
Ages 13 and up
     Pat Zink writes, "Sector 19 manager Leland, is letting us have a private party homeschoolers only on Friday, May 30th.  He has also lowered  the price. Hooray! However, to make this a private party I need 20 kids to commit to the 5 hour gaming and 10 kids who can stay all night.  Deadline for this commitment is early May 16th.  Leland must give his  regular customers a 2 week notice of the private party. So please check your calendar and sign up now so I can get this event booked.  Parents, the kids do play video games but they also plays cards and can bring their favorite board games to SHARE. The youth do a lot of interacting with each other. They talk, laugh, singing karaoke, play games and just have a wonderful time.  Come check it out for yourself.   I will chaperone all night along with Leland and 2 of his employees. Thanks Pat Zink
     Gaming Center offers: Video games. Card games, Board games, Mini games, Nitendo wii, Playstation 2, Xbox 360, Xbox, P.C. computers.  Please sign up by Friday May 16th.  Contact Pat Zink   pzink463@charter.net or  314-540-2957

HOMESCHOOL KIDS MANIA EVENT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY--BASEBALL GAME
Fri., May 30, 7:05 pm
Gateway Grizzlies GVS Ball Park, 2301 Grizzlie Bear Blvd., Sauget, IL 62206
     The Kids Mania group (for tweens 9-12) is opening their next event to whole families!!!!  We're going to the Minor League Gateway Grizzles baseball game on Friday, May 30 at 7:05 p.m.
     We're going to sit in the bleachers so tickets will cost $6. Inexpensive enough for the whole family to come!  The stadium is located in Illinois, just across the J.B. Bridge.
     Please send 1) Name; 2) Check for tickets at $6 per ticket made out to Terrie Bick; 3) Carpool needed for child? to Terrie Bick, 5877 Westcliffe Drive, St. Louis, MO 63129 by May 16, no later.
     Charlotte Wagner will distribute tickets at Field Day on May 23rd or you can meet before the game at 6:30 p.m. at the stadium near the box office to pick up tickets from myself or Charlotte.
     If your child would like to go without their family, that's okay too.  If your child goes alone, you might want to send snack money along for goodies.
     We will meet at 6:00 p.m. on the Wal-Mart parking lot at I-270 and Telegraph to carpool children without parents.  Meet in the front of the lot. We will need to know in advance if your child needs a ride so we can plan for drivers accordingly.
     If you have any questions you can call Terrie Bick at 314-293-5877 or Charlotte Wagner at 636-343-0844.  The web site for the Grizzlies is www.gatewaygrizzlies.com
      Directions to GCS Ballpark: Take I-255 to Mousette Lane (Exit 15). West at stop sign onto Sauget Industrial Park Drive, then left at stop sign onto Goose Lake Road. The ballpark will be on the right.

NATIONAL MEETING ON ASTRONOMY EDUCATION
May 31 and June 1, 2008
Renaissance Grand Hotel, 800 Washington Ave., St. Louis, MO  63101
     Educators from around the U.S. (and more than a dozen other countries) will gather in St. Louis to discuss the upcoming International Year of Astronomy, and how best to share the excitement of observing the sky and understanding the universe with students, teachers, the media, and the public at large. This national meeting on astronomy education and outreach in St. Louis features hands-on workshops open to educators at minimal cost.
     During the weekend of May 31 and June 1, there will be a series of hands-on workshops to help classroom and informal (might not "informal" include homeschoolers?) educators convey the excitement of astronomy more effectively. Scientists and educators from NASA, major observatories, and educational organizations will offer full day and half-day workshop that do not assume that participants have a strong background in astronomy.
Among the weekend workshops being offered for educators at all levels are:
* Telling Science Like a Story: Storytelling from Many Cultures
* In the Footsteps of Galileo: Helping Students Recreate Some of the "AHA! Moments" from Galileo's Work
* The New Media and Education: Facebook, YouTube, Second Life, etc.
* Amateur Astronomers as Champions of Astronomy Outreach
* Astronomy Activities for After-school and Community Programs
* Preserving Dark Skies: Activities to Raise Public Awareness of "Light Pollution"
     Weekend registration is only $25 per day. The workshops will take place at the Renaissance Grand Hotel right across the street from the St. Louis Convention Center. Some of the workshops are very close to being sold out, so we urge interested educators to reserve a spot as soon as possible.
     For more information, see: http://www.astrosociety.org/events/2008mtg/workshops.html
     This unusual program is part of the 212th Meeting of the American Astronomical Society, the main organization of professional astronomers in the U.S. The educational sessions are being organized as a meeting-within-a-meeting by the Astronomical Society of the Pacific, a national organization whose primary mission is education and outreach.
     The United Nations has declared 2009 the International Year of Astronomy (IYA), to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Galileo turning his telescope to the heavens and changing forever humanity's view of itself. Events and programs will be offered throughout the U.S. and the world during 2009 and beyond.

FAMILIES FOR HOME EDUCATION REGION 3 USED BOOK AND CURRICULUM SALE
Saturday, May 31, 2008, 9:30 am - 12:00 noon
Roger T. Sermon Center, Noland and Truman Rds., Independence, MO
     The official Families for Home Education Region 3 Used Book and Curriculum Sale will be held at the Roger T. Sermon Center located on the southeast corner of Noland Road and Truman Road in Independence. Admittance is free. The cost to sell used curriculum will be $7 per space for FHE members and $10 for non-members. Tables will be available on a first come, first served basis. There are fewer tables available than there have been in years past. If you provide your own table, you will be guaranteed a space in the gymnasium. Please remember this sale is for used curriculum materials and books only, no retail sales allowed. Send a completed form and a Self Addressed Stamped Envelope (SASE) with your check made payable to FHE Reg. 3 to:
FHE Reg. 3
17078 Hook Road
Higginsville, MO 64037-9133
     Do you want an opportunity to shop before the general public is admitted? Volunteer to help set up! If interested, please contact Susan Mehl at mrsunz@ctcis.net, 660-584-8539, or 1 877 MY MO FHE (1-877-696-6343) Mailbox 3
***The SASE is REQUIRED to receive your confirmation letter!!! It will be mailed approximately one week before the sale.***
NAME__________________________________________________________
PHONE__________________________________________________________
EMAIL__________________________________________________________
NUMBER OF SPACES NEEDED________ X $7.00 (Members)= $_____________
NUMBER OF SPACES NEEDED_________ X $10.00 (Non-Members)= $_____________
TOTAL AMOUNT ENCLOSED $_____________
Please mark one of the following choices:
________ I can provide my own table(s).
________ I am requesting __________tables. (This is NOT a guarantee you will receive one!)

SOCCER TOURNAMENT
Saturday & Sunday, May 31st, June 1st
Vetta Sports Concord, 12320 Old Tesson Ferry Rd., Concord Village, MO  63128
The first annual “Joe Kelley” (out of the sun), Indoor soccer tournament to benefit skin cancer Research.
Cost: $225 per team; 3 (40 min) games guaranteed
 Divisions: Men’s A
Men’s B
Men’s over 30 A
Men’s over 30 B
Coed Open
Prizes: 1st place each division $100 bar tab.
2nd place each division $50 bar tab.
BBQ by Kenricks Meat Market
Attendance prizes. 50/50 Drawing.
     Please contact Patty and Tim Kelley by E-mail at Kelleytourn08@hotmail.com or call (314) 598-5224 if interested in signing up a team or donating items for prizes. We are grateful and promise a good time for all.
     Please come and join the Kelley family to remember Joe by playing or watching the game Joe loved so much.  Thank you for your support.

Missouri--Homeschoolers Win Access
to Highway Patrol as Legislature Closes

As the legislature closed Friday, May 16, it finished work on the
passage of S.B. 723, removing hurdles for homeschool graduates to
obtain employment in the State Highway Patrol. Missouri homeschool
grads had experienced difficulty because applicable law required an
"accredited" high school diploma or GED. S.B. 723 adopts the very
sensible policy that anyone completing high school in accordance with
Missouri's compulsory attendance law is qualified to apply.  This bill
received very little opposition on its way to passage.

Thank you for your calls in opposition to H.B. 2078, the driver's
license bill.  They made a difference! The bill died with the close of
the legislature.  Your calls sent a loud and clear message that the
homeschool community was united in opposing the bad policy this bill
would have created. 

This misguided bill would have made it much harder for young
adults--including homeschoolers--to get a learner's permits or a
driver's license by conditioning them on school performance.  If this
bill had passed, it would have given the Department of Education broad
de facto power to regulate homeschooling.  Families wanting their
mature young adults to move into the responsibility of driving a car
would have had new regulations and bureaucracy to battle.

The bill's sponsor, Rep. Rodney Howard, tried a last-minute
parliamentary maneuver to get the bill passed despite homeschool
opposition.  He attempted to get his bill's language inserted into
another bill that appeared destined to become law. The bill he
attempted to use as a host passed--but because of careful work by FHE
(Families for Home Education), it passed without his bill's language!
Another similar bill, H.B. 1717, never made it out of committee.

H.B. 1748, which would have made 6-year-olds subject to state-mandated
compulsory school attendance, never made it out of house committee.
 
H.B. 1319 would have created tax credits for businesses that hired
lower-income teens for summer jobs.  HSLDA opposed the bill because
its requirements for school performance could have created paths for
greater regulation of homeschooling.  The bill passed the House, and
cleared the Senate Ways and Means Committee, but never made it to the
Senate floor for a vote, so it died as the legislature ended.
 
Thank you for standing with us for freedom.
 

Sincerely,
 
Scott A. Woodruff
HSLDA Staff Attorney

     Today I received the following e-mail from Brad Haines, Executive Director with Families for Home Education (FHE) of MIssouri, our statewide homeschooling organization.

All,

WE WON!!! Quinn thought he got his language giving control of driving privileges to government schools tagged on to a transportation bill. It was REMOVED during the conference session, and passed in the Senate before he knew it. Then he made a "bother" of himself trying to get the House to reject the committee report. It passed the Hose WITHOUT his language and is on the way to the Governor's office. (It may be a few days before the FINAL language is on the website... Look for SB930, as truly agreed and passed.)

Also, Delbert Scott's bill allowing home educated grads to enter the State Hwy Patrol Academy on equal footing passed and is also on its way to the Gov.

Finally, the home school PROJECT bill naming the ice cream cone as the "official state dessert" passed and is likewise ready for Gov. Blunt's signature.

All in all, a pretty good (though tense) year.

In Christ's Service to Home Educators,

Brad L. Haines
Executive Director
Families For Home Education
(877) MY MO FHE (877-696-6343)
PO Box 742, Grandview, Mo 6403

ANNIE PRESENTED BY LIFE LIGHT THEATRE
May 15th, 16th at 7:00 pm and May 17th at 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm.  
Dardenne Presbyterian Church, 7400 Highway N, O'Fallon, MO,
     Boasting one of Broadway' s most memorable scores, including "It's the Hard-Knock Life," "Easy Street," "N.Y.C." and the ever optimistic "Tomorrow," you can bet your bottom dollar that ANNIE will bring a smile to your face. Bring the entire family for the chance to experience this classic musical about never giving up hope.
     Ticket prices are $6.00 Adults and $5.00 Children ages 3-17 and Seniors 55 & over.  Group rates for 20 or more are available for $5.00 each.   Tickets are reserved seating, please call 636-978-7852 for tickets and further information.  
     The May 17th  2pm performance is a special fundraising performance for HOPE food pantry.  Every person that brings canned goods or other non- perishable food items will receive $1.00 off of their ticket when purchased at the door. (max.discount-$1.00 per ticket).
     For more information, check www.lifelightyouththeatre.com

ST. LOUIS HOMESCHOOL NETWORK SPRING PRODUCTION
Moliere's Comedy--Tartuffi in the Jazz Age
Thurs. and Fri., May 15 and 16, at 7:00 each evening
Evangelical United Church of Christ, 204 E. Lockwood, Webster Groves, MO

PROVIDENCE FINE ARTS CENTER DOUBLE BILL
May 16th & 17th, 2008
First Baptist Church of Ferguson, 333 N. Florissant Rd., Ferguson, MO  63135
     Twelve Angry Jurors:  Reginald Rose's character-study story, adapted by Sherman Sergel, it's a case of overwhelming evidence against a young man accused of murdering his father. Eleven jurors are convinced he is guilty. The twelfth can only talk of his innocence. Is it possible for one juror to stand alone against a mountain of evidence and attitudes set in stone? Will justice prevail  Friday night's performance begins at 7:00 P.M., Saturday's at 6:00 P.M.
     The Cop and the Anthem:  O'Henry's light comedic one-act play.  Would a man intentionally commit a crime for the sole purpose of landing himself in jail? You bet he would, especially if he's homeless and wants to escape the winter elements. Friday, May 16, 2008 at 7:00 P.M. or Saturday, May 17th, at 6:00 P.M.
     Providence is featuring TWO performances on the same night, two dates in a row.  For more information, contact Robin Boda at robinboda@gmail.com .

HOMESCHOOL FAMILIES SEE PRINCE CASPIAN ON OPENING DAY
Date: Friday, May 16th; Arrive no later than 9:00 am; Show starts at 9:30 AM
Wehrenberg DePeres 14, 12701 Manchester Rd., Des Peres, MO                                                         
Rated: PG   (2 hours 25 mins)
The cost is $5.00 per person 
     Pat Zink will purchase tickets online. She must have your money in advance.  Deadline for her to purchase your tickets is Friday, May 9th.  RSVP at pzink463@charter.net or 314-540-2957 cell.
     Only youth 13 and older may be dropped off.  Youth Pick up in front of building at 12:00/12:15 pm.   Anyone younger must come with an adult or chaperone.
     Or, after the show (12:45-4:00) if the weather is nice pack a lunch and head over to Watson Trails Park for an afternoon in the park.  Don’t forget sports items such as basketball, tennis rackets, volleyball etc.
     If you plan to drop off your child (at the show or park) please email Pat to let her know so that she can watch for your child to arrive.

KID'S CONCERT AND FOOD ALLERGY FAIR
Sat., May 17, from 9 am to 12 noon
Kirkwood Community Center, 111 S. Geyer Rd., Kirkwood, MO
     The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America -St. Louis Chapter (AAFA-STL), and Gateway FEAST (Food allergy, Eczema and Asthma Support Team) will hold a Kid’s Concert and Food Allergy Fair on Saturday, May 17th from 9 a.m. to Noon at the Kirkwood Community Center located at 111 S. Geyer Road in Kirkwood.  Kyle Dine, a severely food-allergic musician from Canada, will perform a special concert at 10 a.m. His goal is to promote food allergy awareness & management with kid-friendly songs through his c.d. “You Must Be Nuts!”  For more information about musician Kyle Dine visit www.kyledine.com.  The event is free and open to the public. 
     The Food Allergy Fair is part of National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month and celebrates the conclusion of National Food Allergy Awareness Week. Food allergies affect an estimated 12 million Americans, including 3 million children.  The number of food allergy cases has doubled in the last ten years for reasons still unknown.  The topic of food allergies has become such an issue that it is being thrust into the spotlight through outlets such as the “Celebrity Apprentice”, the “Rachel Ray Show” and “The Martha Stewart Show”. 
     Families living with food allergies often need support and resources to navigate this life-threatening and life-altering diagnosis.  Vendors who create products catering to food-allergic families, such as AwareAbouts ID Tags, Check My Tag, Divvies, Allergaroo, DEY, Whey Out Chocolates and others will attend the fair to give samples and information about their allergy related products.  There will also be an “Ask the Allergist” table as well as raffles for donated items.
     The entire St. Louis community and surrounding areas are invited to attend this one of a kind event. However, please note that no food will be allowed into the event.  Please pre-register by calling 314-645-2422 or by e-mailing FEAST@AAFASTL.ORG .
     Gateway FEAST is an educational support group of volunteers dedicated to providing resources, social activities and encouragement to families coping with food allergies, eczema and asthma.  AAFA’s mission is to serve children affected by asthma and allergies through education, support and medical resources.  All services that AAFA provides to the community are free.  For additional information on either organization, please see the contact information above.

ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH COUNTY HOME EDUCATORS 2007-2008 LEARNING GROUP
Third Monday of each month, Sept. through May (except Dec.), 10:00 am
Crusade Baptist Temple in South St. Louis County, 3600 Union Rd., St. Louis, MO
May event will be at Missouri History Museum, Lindell Ave., St. Louis, MO  63112
     This Group is open to any homeschooler in the St. Louis area. Each child (all ages are welcome) prepares a short report on that month’s topic.  Be creative, you can show models, report boards, pictures.  Some families bring puzzles or worksheets to share.
     The 2007-2008 topics are:     
May 19--------------EVENT IN MISSOURI HISTORY
     (PICNIC IN FOREST PARK  AND TOUR OF MISSOURI HISTORY MUSEUM)  Please RSVP to a_s_c_h_e@sbcglobal.net  by May 10th so arrange a group rate for the special exhibit can be arranged.
     For more information, contact Leaders: David and Trisch Breed at 314-892-9757 or Assistant Leaders: Wayne and Karen Walker at 314-638-4710 or e-mail a_s_c_h_e@sbcglobal.net

HOMESCHOOL DAYS AT ARROW ROCK
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Check-in 9:00 - 10:00 a.m.
Arrow Rock orientation video available at 9:30 and following program
Program 10:00 - 12:00 a.m.
Arrow Rock State Historic Site, Hwy. 41 and Hwy. TT, Arrow Rock, MO
      Note you may check-in earlier if you so desire to view an orientation video about Arrow Rock before you begin your program at 10:00 a.m. The video will also be available after your program.  Also note the $4.00 registration fee will cover children kindergarten and older with one adult per family attending free. Additional adults are welcome for the same $4.00 fee.
     Arrow Rock, Crossroads of the Missouri Frontier:  Learn of some 19th century activities of daily life for the first inhabitants of the Boonslick area where Arrow Rock was founded in 1829.
     Students and accompanying adults will rotate among six stations (including some hands-on experiences) at their own choosing during a two-hour period.
* Indian flint tools & flint knapping at 1828 Academy
* Demonstration of loading & firing flintlock rifle
* 1834 Huston Store
* Making marbles and candles in 1847 Hall House
* Tour of 1875 John P. Sites Gunshop
* Tour of 1875 John P. Sites Home
     Reservations: call 660-837-3330 or 1-800-334-6946 (ask to be transferred to Arrow Rock State Historic Site) between the hours of 8:30 and 3:30.
     Before beginning programs, you must check in at the Arrow Rock State Historic Site Visitor Center. Check in begins at 9:00. Programs will start at 10:00 and run until 12:00. Programs will be held rain or shine.
     There will be a $4.00 fee for each student Kindergarten and up. One adult per family free. Other adults $4.00 each. Please have the total amount due for your family ready at check-in at State Historic Site Visitor Center.  Checks payable to Friends of Arrow Rock.
     For information about the village: www.arrowrock.org .  If you have any concerns about this please contact Executive Director Kathy Borgman at kborgman@iland.net

SOUTH CITY OPEN STUDIO AND GALLOERY OPEN HOUSE
May 22, 2008, from 5 - 9 pm
SCOSAG's Potter's Workshop, 4300 Manchester Rd., St. Louis, MO  63110
     On May 22th from 5pm-9pm at the Potter's Workshop for St. Louis City Open Studio and Gallery's (SCOSaG) you are invited to attend the second DIY Open House. While there enjoy free bites, drinks, and music. Interact with local artists by designing a t-shirt with Ben Goeke and crafts with Jessi Cerutti.
     SCOSaG's Open House will be held at the Potter's Workshop. It is located 4300 Manchester at Tower Grove Ave., St. Louis, Missouri 63110. Admission is FREE and open to the public. Come out and be ready to get those creative juices flowing!   Please note this is an adult only event.
     It is the Mission of the St. Louis City Open Studio and Gallery to provide a safe and educational environment for children to explore the Arts and also to strengthen the ties within the St. Louis neighborhood, its families, and its youth.  For more information visit www.scosag.org , or contact Contact: Carolyn Simon, Executive Director at Telephone: (314) 865-0060 or Email: scosag@gmail.com .

HOMESCHOOL P. E. PICNIC TIME
Friday, May 23, 2008, 10:30 am to 2:30 pm
10:30 to 12:00--organized fun games
12:00 to 1:00--bring your own lunch
1:00 to ???--baseball
Lemay Park, Military Ave., Lemay, MO  63125
THIS EVENT IS FREE!!!!
     Once again S.H.A.R.E. is the proud sponsor of the Salvation Army/ Homeschool P.E. Picnic.  Everyone is welcome whether you are in the P. E. classes or not.
     BUT-YOU MUST RSVP to Kerrie Tate ( kertate@aol.com ) WITH THE NAMES AND AGES OF YOUR CHILDREN so we know how TO PLAN THE GAMES.