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LIBRARY INFO
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FIELD TRIP IDEA
Tour the Federal Reserve in Baltimore: For your homeschool economic studies – here’s a great place to tour – the Federal Reserve in Baltimore
"We offer group tours of 30 or fewer attendees by appointment. Developed for high school and college students and teachers, our tours seek to reinforce classroom instruction and promote economic education and financial literacy. What you will see - Our tours focus on bank operations and monetary policy and may include a video presentation on the functions of the Federal Reserve System upon request. Generally, tours of the Baltimore Branch take 90 minutes to complete, but can be customized based on the special interests of the group. Please note, cell phones and cameras are not permitted inside the building. - For more information or to schedule a tour, please call Diana Wilkes in the Public Affairs Department at 410-576-3387."



February 2012

Top Pick Events

FRIDAY NIGHT STARGAZING IN THE OBSERVATORY
Fridays in February, 2012: 5:30-8:00PM (weather permitting) I MARYLAND SCIENCE CENTER, BALTIMORE
Venture out to our urban rooftop Observatory to view the night sky as our staff help you find planets and constellations. The Observatory is open every Friday night free of charge to the public, weather permitting. Stargazing is free and open to the public, admission to the Science Center is not required. Please phone 410-545-2999 before your visit to check on viewing conditions.


SUNGAZING SATURDAYS
Saturdays in February, 2012: 1:00-4:00 PM (weather permitting) I MARYLAND SCIENCE CENTER, BALTIMORE
Safely look at the Sun and its features–such as sunspots and prominences–through a special set of filters on our telescope. The Observatory is open to museum visitors every Saturday, weather permitting, and admission is included in general Science Center admission. Please phone 410-545-2999 before your visit to check on viewing conditions.


IMAX FILM FESTIVAL
Ongoing through March 3, 2012 I MARYLAND SCIENCE CENTER, BALTIMORE
The Maryland Science Center’s popular IMAX Film Festival returns for a limited engagement this winter beginning January 3rd. Maryland’s only true IMAX Theater showcases the best of the large format genre featuring theatrical performances, stories of survival, and films that take a look at the nature and animals which surround us. Film titles rotate on a frequent basis and during the run of the Film Festival and there is no need to purchase a Science Center exhibit admission ticket to see IMAX films. All films are available at single entry admission prices throughout the day.

FRIDAYS AFTER FIVE
Fridays through March 23, 2012: 5:00-8:00PM I MARYLAND SCIENCE CENTER, BALTIMORE
Gather up the family and come down to enjoy three levels of exhibits, a live science presentation, a star-studded planetarium presentation, and a larger-than-life film on our five-story IMAX screen!

THE WAR CAME BY TRAIN 150TH ANNIVERSARY CIVIL WAR EXHIBIT
Ongoing through May 1, 2015: Mon-Sat 10:00AM-4:00PM; Sun 11:00 AM-4:00PM I BALTIMORE AND OHIO RAILROAD MUSEUM, BALTIMORE
The B&O Railroad participated in American's Civil War and changed the course of American history.

DIVIDED VOICES, MARYLAND IN THE CIVIL WAR
Ongoing through May 6, 2015 I MARYLAND HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM, BALTIMORE
The impact of the war on the people of Maryland will be told in personal terms in “Divided Voices: Maryland in the Civil War.” The largest Civil War exhibit in the museum’s 167-year history will occupy over 5,000 square feet and tell the story of a tragedy in three acts: the romantic war, the real war and the long reunion.
CHESS CLUB
Wednesday, February 1, 2012: 3:30 PM I LONG BRANCH LIBRARY, SILVER SPRING
Learn to play chess or play with others. All are welcome. Registration is not required.

HOMEWORK HELP
Wednesday, February 1, 2012: 4:00 PM I ASPEN HILL BRANCH LIBRARY, ROCKVILLE
Free homework help for children in grades K-5 every Wednesday from 4-6pm, except for MCPS holidays.

QUINCE ORCHARD KID'S BOOK CLUB
Wednesday, February 1, 2012: 7:00 PM I QUINCE ORCHARD BRANCH LIBRARY, GAITHERSBURG
Book Discussion for students in Grades 4 through 6. Two books are available each month. Each member may read either or both, and both will be discussed. This month's theme: Sports "Rivals: a Baseball Greats Novel" by Tim Green or TBA. Sign up and pick up the book(s) at the Information desk at Quince Orchard.

EVENING PLANETARIUM SHOW: ENCHANTED REEF
Thursday, February 2, 2012: Shows at 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30 PM I EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE LABORATORY, 210 MADISON STREET, FREDERICK
The vastness of our planet's oceans guards unimaginable secrets. One of its most precious is "Kaluoka'hina," the enchanted reef whose magic protects it against humans finding it. Kaluoka'hina's colorful inhabitants live in peace until the volcano erupts, and the spell is broken. Now it's up to Jake, the young sawfish, and his paranoid pal, Shorty, to restore the magic of Kaluoka'hina. Their only lead: the ancient legend that tells of touching the moon. Shows are at 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30pm. Doors open 5:00-8:30 PM.

HOOKS & NEEDLES
Thursday, February 2, 2012: 6:00 PM I TWINBROOK BRANCH LIBRARY, ROCKVILLE
Bring a friend and learn to crochet and knit, too! Bring your own supplies. Or if you already know how to crochet or knit, bring your project and meet new people. For adults and teens ages 12 and up.

IMAGINATION & CREATION EXPLORATION
Friday, February 3, 2012: 3:00PM I MARYLAND SCIENCE CENTER, BALTIMORE
This activity is specially designed for children ages five through eight. Each week come and face a new I.C.E. challenge based on our monthly theme. Our theme for January is marvelous magnets. From simple loadstones to complex motors come discover the mysterious history and contemporary uses of this fascinating material.

A NEW EXHIBIT–HARRY'S BIG ADVENTURE: MY BUG WORLD
Saturday, February 4, 2012 I MARYLAND SCIENCE CENTER, BALTIMORE
Harry's Big Adventure: My Bug World is hosted by Harry, a Chinese Praying Mantis, and his insect friends. It features thousands of live bugs, video, audio, games and more. It is designed to give visitors an up-close view of nature and a new perspective on the role insects play in our environment. Live Cooking demos and bug performances will take place every weekend!

USED BOOK SALE
Saturday, February 4, 2012: 10:00 AM -1:00 PM I QUINCE ORCHARD BRANCH LIBRARY, GAITHERSBURG
Lots of books, videos, CDs, DVDs for all ages. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library, Quince Orchard Chapter. For more information call 240-777-0200.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH FAMILY DAY
Saturday, February 4, 2012: 11:30 AM–3:00 PM I AMERICAN ART MUSEUM, PORTRAIT GALLERY. KOGOD COURTYARD, WASHINGTON DC
Related Exhibition: The Black List: Photographs by Timothy Greenfield-Sanders (at the National Portrait Gallery). Celebrate the start of Black History Month with a day of craft activities and live music for the whole family. Join us for a day of music, dance, a special tour of the related exhibition, and hands-on activities.

LUNAR NEW YEAR EVENT
Saturday, February 4, 2012: 1:00 PM I POTOMAC BRANCH LIBRARY, POTOMAC
The Kuang Chinese School will perform traditional Chinese dances, including the Lion Dance. In addition, there will be paper cutting demonstrations and storytelling. 1 hour. No registration required.

CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATION
Saturday, February 4, 2012: 2:00 PM I GERMANTOWN BRANCH LIBRARY, GERMANTOWN
Celebrate Chinese New Year with The Li-Ming Chinese Academy. Includes Puppet Show, New Year's Traditions, Lion Dance, Chinese Arts, and more. Lunar New Year.

ANANSEGROMMA OF GHANA
Saturday, February 4, 2012: 2:30 PM I WHEATON BRANCH LIBRARY, WHEATON
Come join the “royal elders” and musicians of a typical West African village! Native Ghanaians Kofi Dennis andKwame Ansah-Brew offer an exhilarating and memorable performance of traditional music, storytelling and dance. Through “call and response” songs, games anddrum rhythms on authentic instruments, Anansegromma offers an engaging, first-hand exploration of West African
cultural traditions.

MYSTERY IN THE STACKS: AN EVENING OF CHOCOLATE
Saturday, February 4, 2012: 6:30 PM I DAMASCUS BRANCH LIBRARY, DAMASCUS
An interactive mystery, this event is for adults, but children over age 12 are welcome. Feel free to dress in your most creative attire. A diamond and ruby pendant will be awarded to the first person to correctly solve the mystery. Space is limited, so get your tickets today at the library. Cost: $5.00 per person, includes buffet of hors d'oeuvres, desserts and drinks. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library, Damascus Chapter, and the Damascus Library Advisory Committee. Call 240-773-9444 for more information.

HOMESCHOOL DAYS: EBIRD EXCURSIONS
Tuesday, February 7, 2012: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM I MEADOWSIDE NATURE CENTER, ROCKVILLE
Help us track migratory patterns of bird our parks. Using binoculars and field guides, we'll I.D. our seasonal visitors and record the data online (using eBird) to share with others. Explore a new spot each time! Please dress for the weather. Meet at Meadowside Nature Center.Ages 11-18 yrs old. Register at www.parkpass.org Cost: $3

HISTORY HOUR
Tuesday, February 7, 2012 : 1:00PM I HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF FREDERICK COUNTY, FREDERICK
Children ages three to five are invited to take part in the Historical Society of Frederick County’s preschool hiSTORY Hour program, offered the first and third Tuesday of each month from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. The hiSTORY Hour program features preschoolers being read an illustrated, historically-themed book followed by an activity or craft.

EVENING PLANETARIUM SHOW: ASTRONAUT
Tuesday, February 7, 2012: Shows at 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30 PM I EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE LABORATORY, 210 MADISON STREET, FREDERICK
The exploration of space is the greatest endeavour the humankind has ever undertaken. What does it take to be a part of this incredible journey? What does it take to become an astronaut? Experience a rocket launch from inside the body of an astronaut, explore the amazing worlds of inner and outer space, and discover the perils that lurk in space as we subject 'Chad', our test astronaut, to everything that space has to throw at him. Doors open 5:00-8:30 PM.

CHESS CLUB
Tuesday, February 7, 2012: 6:30 PM I MARILYN J. PRAISNER BRANCH LIBRARY (FAIRLAND)
Learn to play chess or sharpen your skills for ages 8 and up. Every Tuesday at 6:30. No registration necessary.

CHESS CLUB
Wednesday, February 8, 2012: 3:30 PM I LONG BRANCH LIBRARY, SILVER SPRING
Learn to play chess or play with others. All are welcome. Registration is not required.

HOMEWORK HELP
Wednesday, February 8, 2012: 4:00 PM I ASPEN HILL BRANCH LIBRARY, ROCKVILLE
Free homework help for children in grades K-5 every Wednesday from 4-6pm, except for MCPS holidays.

KID'S BOOK CLUB
Wednesday, February 8, 2012: 6:30 PM I MARILYN J. PRAISNER BRANCH LIBRARY (FAIRLAND)
3rd 4rd graders are invited to join our monthly book club. This month we are reading Bud, Not Buddy, by Paul Christopher Curtis. Call for further information 240-773-9460

HOOKS & NEEDLES
Thursday, February 9, 2012: 6:00 PM I TWINBROOK BRANCH LIBRARY, ROCKVILLE
Bring a friend and learn to crochet and knit, too! Bring your own supplies. Or if you already know how to crochet or knit, bring your project and meet new people. For adults and teens ages 12 and up.

TEEN MONTGOMERY: OWL PROWL AND CAMPFIRE
Thursday, February 9, 2012: 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM I MEADOWSIDE NATURE CENTER, ROCKVILLE
TEEN Montgomery is all about exploring something new, helping the environment, making new friends and (most of all) having fun! This month bundle up for a fun evening in the park! We'll hike in the dark along our trails and call our local owls. It's owl mating season, so we may be able to hear several kinds and learn how to triangulate to locate them. After our hike, we'll gather around the campfire for s'mores. Ages 14-17 yrs old. Register at www.parkpass.org.

THE POWER OF CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL
Saturday and Sunday, February 11 & 12, 2012: 10 :00AM – 4:30 PM I AMERICAN INDIAN MUSEUM, NATIONAL MALL, WASHINGTON DC
This two-day celebration of one of the world’s favorite flavors includes traditional performances; live food demonstrations and free chocolate samples (while supplies last!); a talk focused on the health and nutrition benefits of cacao and chocolate; and presentations from one of the world’s greatest chocolate makers, Mars Chocolate; as well as hands-on activities for kids and families!

BOOK SALE
Saturday, February 11, 2012: 10:00 AM I SILVER SPRING BRANCH LIBRARY SILVER SPRING
Friends of Library, Silver Spring Chapter will be hosting a book sale and bake sale. 10:00am to 3:00pm. Please call 240-773-9420 for more information.

SUPER SCIENCE SATURDAY: SCIENTISTS AND INVENTORS
Saturday, February 11, 2012: 10:00 AM–3:00 PM I AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM UDVAR-HAZY CENTER, CHANTILLY, VA
Free, but $15 parking fee per vehicle. Immerse yourself in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics topics related to aviation and space exploration through demonstrations and hands-on activities for visitors of all ages.

PENGUINS' PLAYGROUND
Saturday, February 11, 2012: 10:00 AM I THE PUPPET CO., GLEN ECHO
Join us for an awesome Arctic Adventure exploring a super-secret playground, hidden at the very bottom of the world. Be there as playful, multi-talented penguins join their friends at the South Pole! The Tiny Tots program is designed for our youngest theater patrons, ages 0-4. The lights stay on, the doors stay open, and everyone has a great time! Tickets are $5, and all individuals must have a ticket, including babes-in-arms. Running time: 30 min. Reservations strongly recommended.

BOOK SALE
Saturday, February 11, 2012: 10:00 AM I GERMANTOWN BRANCH LIBRARY, GERMANTOWN
Bargains galore! 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library, Germantown Chapter.

LIBRARY LOVERS MONTH
Saturday, February 11, 2012: 10:00 AM I LITTLE FALLS BRANCH LIBRARY, BEHESDA
Please join us for a fun-filled morning from 10:00- 12:30. Arts and Crafts and Valentine's Activities. Free show at 10:30 am performing Mark Jaster: Mime Extraordinaire! Audiences of all ages will enjoy this high-energy show. Mark Jaster performs an eccentric mute conductor who makes musical mayhem with the audience as his orchestra.

FAMILY DAY: AFRICAN AMERICAN PIONEERS IN AVIATION
Saturday, February 11, 2012: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM I AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM, WASHINGTON DC
(Repeats February 25 at the Udvar-Hazy Center) Learn about the accomplishments of African American aviation pioneers of the past and present. Meet a distinguished panel of local Tuskegee Airmen, who will discuss their struggles and the history of the African American World War II fighter group. Enjoy hands-on activities, book signings, and appearances by current scientists, pilots, and engineers in aerospace.

STORYTELLER AND AUTHOR LINDA FANG
Saturday, February 11, 2012: 11:00 AM I SILVER SPRING BRANCH LIBRARY, SILVER SPRING
Author and Storyteller Linda Fang Presents Tales of Ancient China and the Origins of Chinese New Year Traditions. Presented by, Friends of the Library, Silver Spring Chapter and Silver Spring Library Advisory Committee.

TEEN BOOK DISCUSSION
Saturday, February 11, 2012: 12:00 PM I CHEVY CHASE BRANCH LIBRARY, CHEVY CHASE
Join in the discussion... and get lunch, too! (Pizza, naturally.) Our book group will meet on the third Saturday of each month from noon-2pm. Open to all readers grades 7 and up. Registration required: please either call the library or stop by the Information Desk to sign up. The library will have a few copies of each month's book available at the Information Desk at the beginning of each month. Once all copies are checked out, teens are responsible for placing a hold and getting a copy in time for the meeting. This month's book is THE GIVER by Lois Lowry.

4-H READING BUDDIES
Saturday, February 11, 2012: 1:00 PM I ASPEN HILL BRANCH LIBRARY, ROCKVILLE
Join members of the Lucky Clovers 4-H Club for reading and crafts. Grades K-5.

SECOND SATURDAY ARTS & SCIENCE: BUTTERFLY BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION
Saturday, February 11, 2012: 1:00 – 3:00 PM I NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM, WASHINGTON DC
Butterflies + Plants: Partners in Evolution exhibition and Live Butterfly Pavilion, 2nd Floor
Partners in Evolution—a free-admission exploration into how insects and other animals have co-evolved with plants. The Butterfly Pavilion—a fee-based, live butterfly experience. Feel the flutter! Celebrate the fourth anniversary of the exhibit Butterflies + Plants: Partners in Evolution with special arts and crafts activities for children of all ages. Meet museum educators and learn about metamorphosis and native butterfly species of our region.

CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATION WITH LI MING CHINESE SCHOOL
Saturday, February 11, 2012: 2:00 PM I QUINCE ORCHARD BRANCH LIBRARY, GAITHERSBURG
Lion dancers, Martial Arts and demonstrations of the Chinese Yo-Yo will usher in the Lunar New Year. Fun for the whole family. Sponsored by the Montgomery County Friends of the Library.

HIGH SCHOOL STUDY ABROAD INFO SESSION
Saturday, February 11, 2012: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM I DAMASCUS LIBRARY, DAMASCUS
Do you want to learn a new language and make friends from all over the world? Attend an open house to meet AFS representatives and learn more about becoming an exchange student for a summer, semester or academic year. American students who have studied abroad and international students will share their experiences. Also learn about opportunities to host an international student or volunteer for AFS in your community. AFS is a worldwide, nonprofit organization that has been leading international high school exchange for more than 60 years. Email: jcline@afs.org

ANANSEGROMMA OF GHANA
Saturday, February 11, 2012: 2:30 PM I MARILYN J. PRAISNER BRANCH LIBRARY (FAIRLAND) Native Ghananians Kofi Dennis and Kwame Ansah-Brew present an exhilarating and memorable performance of traditional West African music, storytelling and dance. All ages are welcome!

PLAY IN A DAY
Saturday, February 11, 2012: 8:00 PM I IMAGINATION STAGE, BETHESDA
Six professional Washington, D.C. area theatre companies will write, direct, rehearse and perform original plays based on similar themes in only 24 hours. The plays will be presented at the eighth annual Play In A Day, a one-of-a-kind event produced by the Bethesda Urban Partnership and Bethesda Arts & Entertainment District. Participating theatre companies include: Adventure Theatre (Glen Echo, MD); Flying V (Bethesda, MD); Imagination Stage (Bethesda, MD); Keegan Theatre (Arlington, VA); Olney Theatre Center (Olney, MD) and Round House Theatre (Bethesda, MD). General admission tickets are $15. Remaining tickets will be sold at the door beginning at 7pm. For more information, please call 301/215-6660 or visit www.bethesda.org.

CHESS CLUB
Tuesday, February 14, 2012: 6:30 PM I MARILYN J. PRAISNER BRANCH LIBRARY (FAIRLAND)
Learn to play chess or sharpen your skills for ages 8 and up. EveryTuesday at 6:30. No registration necessary.

WORLD ON A STRING
Wednesday, February 15, 2012: 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM I THE PUPPET CO., GLEN ECHO
Experience a whirlwind tour around the world! See French poodles perform the Cancan; laugh as a Russian Dog Act careens out of control; and Bongo from the Congo amazes everyone with his skill on a big flying vine! The Tiny Tots program is designed for our youngest theater patrons, ages 0-4. The lights stay on, the doors stay open, and everyone has a great time! Show Time: 10 AM. Tickets are $5, and all individuals must have a ticket, including babes-in-arms. Running time: 30 min. Reservations strongly recommended. Call our box office at (301) 634-5380 or visit us online at www.thepuppetco.org to get your tickets today!

HOMESCHOOL WORKSHOP: LIFE BEYOND EARTH
February 15, 2012: 3:00 PM I MARYLAND SCIENCE CENTER, BALTIMORE
(Ages 9-14) Wednesday afternoons are for homeschoolers after school at the Maryland Science Center when you participate in Wednesday Workshops. From October through April a different workshop is available every Wednesday and we’re making it easy for you to attend.

CHESS CLUB
Wednesday, February 15, 2012: 3:30 PM I LONG BRANCH LIBRARY, SILVER SPRING
Learn to play chess or play with others. All are welcome. Registration is not required.

HOMEWORK HELP
Wednesday, February 15, 2012: 4:00 PM I ASPEN HILL BRANCH LIBRARY, ROCKVILLE
Free homework help for children in grades K-5 every Wednesday from 4-6pm, except for MCPS holidays.

HOMESCHOOLERS: NATURE'S EXPLORERS
Thursday, February 16, 2012: 1:30 PM - 03:00 PM I BLACK HILL REGIONAL PARK VISITORS CENTER, BOYDS
Homeschooled children are invited to learn about different seasonal aspects of nature and science. Programs are mostly outdoors (rain or shine), so please dress appropriately for hiking. Ages 6-12. Please register at ParkPASS.org.

HOOKS & NEEDLES
Thursday, February 16, 2012: 6:00 PM I TWINBROOK BRANCH LIBRARY, ROCKVILLE
Bring a friend and learn to crochet and knit, too! Bring your own supplies. Or if you already know how to crochet or knit, bring your project and meet new people. For adults and teens ages 12 and up.

MAGINATION & CREATION EXPLORATION
Friday, February 17, 2012: 3:00PM I MARYLAND SCIENCE CENTER, BALTIMORE
This activity is specially designed for children ages five through eight. Each week come and face a new I.C.E. challenge based on our monthly theme. Our theme for January is marvelous magnets. From simple loadstones to complex motors come discover the mysterious history and contemporary uses of this fascinating material.

FAMILY STORYTIME
Saturday, February 18, 2012: 10:30 AM I POTOMAC BRANCH LIBRARY, POTOMAC
Enjoy stories, songs and rhymes for the whole family to share. Free. No registration required.

PRESIDENTIAL FAMILY FUN DAY
Saturday, February 18, 2012: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM I AMERICAN ART MUSEUM, PORTRAIT GALLERY, WASHINGTON DC
Start off your Presidents' Day weekend with a family day at the Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery. Remember our shared history as you enjoy patriotic music, stories, craft activities, and some special guests!

AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH FAMILY DAY
Saturday, February 18, 2012: 12:00 – 3:00 PM I POSTAL MUSEUM, WASHINGTON DC
Discover the struggles and achievements of African Americans in the postal service with family activities. Design a stamp honoring your heritage hero and sort mail in the Railway Post Office!

MEET A MIME! MARK JASTER
Saturday, February 18, 2012: 2:00 PM I ROCKVILLE BRANCH LIBRARY, ROCKVILLE
Mime Mark Jaster performs "A Fool Named O" for ages 4 and up.

MUSICAL CELEBRATION OF THE CHINESE NEW YEAR.
Saturday, February 18, 2012: 3:00 PM I MARILYN J. PRAISNER BRANCH LIBRARY (FAIRLAND)
Chinese songs, and Chinese compositions for piano and voice. Ly-Li Chang, pianist. Lunar New Year.

CELEBRATE GEORGE ON PRESIDENT'S DAY
Monday, February 20, 2012: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM I TUDOR PLACE, GEORGETOWN, WASHINGTON DC
Celebrate our country's first President at Tudor Place, whose collections include the largest assemblage of Washington artifacts outside Mt. Vernon. Visitors will enjoy self-guided tours through the historic mansion and a special exhibit of rare Washington-related objects. These include George Washington's 1775 letter to Martha Washington, one of only three such letters known to exist. Written on the eve of his departure from Philadelphia to take command of the Continental Army, the missive reveals the human and sentimental side of this revered hero. After touring at their own pace, families can enjoy18th century gaming, dancing, and crafts led by costumed interpreters. Member adults: $5; Nonmember adults: $10; Children: $5

FREE FAMILY DAY AT THE VISITOR CENTER
Monday, February 20, 2012: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM I BLACK HILL REGIONAL PARK VISITORS CENTER. BOYDS
School's out today, so bring the kids to the Visitor Center for an afternoon of nature fun. Friends of Black Hill Nature Programs will be on hand to show you how to use our popular nature boxes, and volunteer naturalists will lead short nature walks with hands-on activities and games. Drop in any time between 1 and 4 for the fun! All ages. Register at ParkPASS.org.

HISTORY HOUR
Tuesday, February 21, 2012: 1:00 PM I HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF FREDERICK COUNTY, FREDERICK
Children ages three to five are invited to take part in the Historical Society of Frederick County’s preschool hiSTORY Hour program, offered the first and third Tuesday of each month from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. The hiSTORY Hour program features preschoolers being read an illustrated, historically-themed book followed by an activity or craft.

EVENING PLANETARIUM SHOW: ASTRONAUT
Tuesday, February 21, 2012: Shows at 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30 PM I EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE LABORATORY, 210 MADISON STREET, FREDERICK
The exploration of space is the greatest endeavor the humankind has ever undertaken. What does it take to be a part of this incredible journey? What does it take to become an astronaut? Experience a rocket launch from inside the body of an astronaut, explore the amazing worlds of inner and outer space, and discover the perils that lurk in space as we subject 'Chad', our test astronaut, to everything that space has to throw at him. Doors open 5:00-8:30 PM.

CHESS CLUB
Tuesday, February 21, 2012: 6:30 PM I MARILYN J. PRAISNER BRANCH LIBRARY (FAIRLAND)
Learn to play chess or sharpen your skills for ages 8 and up. Every Tuesday at 6:30. No registration necessary.

HOMESCHOOL WORKSHOP: DISCOVER OUR NATION'S PRESIDENTS
Wednesday, February 22, 2012: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM I TUDOR PLACE, GEORGETOWN, WASHINGTON DC
Celebrate George Washington’s Birthday at Tudor Place! During an interactive tour of Tudor Place, students discover the rich history of our nation’s early Presidents, including artifacts that once belonged to George Washington. After the tour students experience history first hand, by dressing in period clothing and making a special period craft to take home.

CHESS CLUB
Wednesday, February 22, 2012: 3:30 PM I LONG BRANCH LIBRARY, SILVER SPRING
Learn to play chess or play with others. All are welcome. Registration is not required.

HOMEWORK HELP
Wednesday, February 22, 2012: 4:00 PM I ASPEN HILL BRANCH LIBRARY, ROCKVILLE
Free homework help for children in grades K-5 every Wednesday from 4-6pm, except for MCPS holidays.

KIDS BOOK CLUB
Wednesday, February 22, 2012: 6:30 PM I MARILYN J. PRAISNER BRANCH LIBRARY (FAIRLAND)
5th and 6th graders are invited to join or monthly book club. This month we are reading Kira-kira, by Cynthia Kadohata. 240-773-9460.

HOOKS & NEEDLES
Thursday, February 23, 2012: 6:00 PM I TWINBROOK BRANCH LIBRARY, ROCKVILLE
Bring a friend and learn to crochet and knit, too! Bring your own supplies. Or if you already know how to crochet or knit, bring your project and meet new people. For adults and teens ages 12 and up.

FAMILY DAY: AFRICAN AMERICAN PIONEERS IN AVIATION
Saturday, February 25, 2012: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM I AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM UDVAR-HAZY CENTER, CHANTILLY, VA
Free; parking $15. Learn about the accomplishments of African American aviation pioneers of the past and present. Meet a distinguished panel of local Tuskegee Airmen, who will discuss their struggles and the history of the African American World War II fighter group. Enjoy hands-on activities, book signings, and appearances by current scientists, pilots, and engineers in aerospace.

STORYTELLER BABA JAMAL KORAM
Saturday, February 25, 2012: 11:00 AM I DAVIS BRANCH LIBRARY, BETHESDA
Stories from the African traditions. A calm and captivating voice and drum captures audiences of all ages. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library, Davis Chapter, in honor of Black History Month.

OWLS, HAWKS & EAGLE LUNCHTIME AND TALK
Saturday, February 25, 2012: 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM I MEADOWSIDE NATURE CENTER, ROCKVILLE
Observe Meadowside's hawk, owl, vulture, and bald eagle during their feeding time and ask questions! Speak with a Naturalist about birds of prey, and learn some of the stories about the raptors on exhibit. These talks will begin at the Raptor Walkway behind the Nature Center. No registration required. Ages 2 and up. Register at www.parkpass.org

ACT IT OUT KIDS BOOK CLUB
Monday, February 27, 2012: 7:00 PM I ROCKVILLE BRANCH LIBRARY, ROCKVILLE
For children in grades Kindergarten, first and second grades. We will share stories and act them out. Please register at 240-777-0140.

CHESS CLUB
Tuesday, February 28, 2012: 6:30 PM I MARILYN J. PRAISNER BRANCH LIBRARY (FAIRLAND)
Learn to play chess or sharpen your skills for ages 8 and up. EveryTuesday at 6:30. No registration necessary.

HOMESCHOOL WORKSHOP: CARTOON PHYSICS AND ASTRONOMY
February 29, 2012: 3:00 PM I MARYLAND SCIENCE CENTER, BALTIMORE
(Ages 9-14) Wednesday afternoons are for homeschoolers after school at the Maryland Science Center when you participate in Wednesday Workshops. From October through April a different workshop is available every Wednesday and we’re making it easy for you to attend.

CHESS CLUB
Wednesday, February 29, 2012: 3:30 PM I LONG BRANCH BRANCH LIBRARY, SILVER SPRING
Learn to play chess or play with others. All are welcome. Registration is not required.

HOMEWORK HELP
Wednesday, February 29, 2012: 4:00 PM I ASPEN HILL BRANCH LIBRARY, ROCKVILLE
Free homework help for children in grades K-5 every Wednesday from 4-6pm, except for MCPS holidays.

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