October 28 - November 3
What a beautiful fall week!  The weather is looking great with the exception of a chance of showers on Sunday.  So enjoy it!

Understanding Autism
Saturday November 5 - 6:30pm
Please RSVP asap

We (my wife and I) are hosting a discussion forum on understanding autism on November 5th.  The session is geared towards building understanding about autism-- what is it, how if affects families, and community resources.  This forum is designed to foster dialogue, learning and connections to help individuals and families understand autism in an open environment.  The desire is to bring together people who want to better understand the disorder.  Some childcare is available.  Please RSVP to selwyn@selwyn.org ASAP to attend!

Now on to our events...


Children's Etiquette for Today
Held at Noodles & Company, 3600 University Ave
Friday, October 28, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
www.theetiquettecenter.com
Here is an etiquette class for 8-12 year olds.  Call ASAP if you are interested in taking part in this session.  Reservations are required at 1-877-647-4086 or through the web site above.


Horror in the Dark at Olin Park
Olin Park Pavillion - 277-0703
Friday, October 21, 2005 7:00 PM - Monday, October 31, 2005 10:00 PM - $8/person
http://westmadisonjaycees.org

Have you ever wanted to be scared so much you can't walk? Can't talk? Can't open your eyes??? If the answer is a yes (or a maybe), make sure you come to the Horror in the Dark at Olin Park! The West Madison Jaycees have a long history of running the biggest, scariest haunted houses anywhere around. Around every corner is a new thrill, down every hallway, a new scream! Make sure you bring at least one friend to hold your hand as you maneuver your way through the maze... and they can make sure you make it out alive.* Hours of Operation: 7pm-10pm on Friday & Saturday, Oct. 21 & 22, Thursday- Saturday, Oct. 27-29 AND Monday, Oct. 31. Cost: $8 per person, portion of the proceeds to benefit Three Gates a non-profit organization. Contact: The West Madison Jaycees at 277-0737 for more information. *To date, they have never lost anyone in the haunted house. However, they have had to carry out a few bodies!


Martian Halloween at Space Place
UW Space Place - 2300 S. Park St., Suite LL-100 - 608-262-4779  [MAP]
Saturday, October
31, 7:00 PM - FREE
http://www.spaceplace.wisc.edu/

Join us on Monday, October 31 for "out of this world" activities for children from 7-9 pm, replay of "War of the Worlds" radio program from 8-9 pm, and Mars viewing on our observing deck from 9-10pm. 


Halloween at the Zoo
Vilas Zoo - 702 South Randall Avenue, Madison
Saturday October 29 and Sunday October 30 - 10:00 AM-4:00 PM 
http://www.vilaszoo.org/
FREE Trick-or-Treating
Through the generosity of area businesses, kids of all ages visit Treat Stops and receive free treats. This makes the Zoo a neat place to meet for a safe trick-or-treat. Just remember to bring your treat bag and join the Trick-or-Treating loop anywhere along the way.

Tunnel of Terror - $5 per person, $4 for children under age 12.
This year's Tunnel of Terror will be "The Final Chapter" to honor the Tunnel of Terror's final year at the Zoo. The Tunnel of Terror is sponsored by the Madison Area Builder's Association and has become a well-recognized part of the Zoo's Halloween tradition. Friday Night Special Tunnel Only, from 6-9pm

Happy House $2 for children 12 and under.
A little less scary Halloween experience, with fun, games, and a petting Zoo.


Fun with Chemistry
Students Participating in Chemical Education (SPICE) program for the whole family
Saturday, October 29 2:00 PM
Come enjoy the "magic" of chemistry in a demonstration provided by SPICE (Students Participating in Chemical Education). These UW-Madison students will show how science is an interesting, exciting, and everyday part of our lives. The whole family will be entertained by this informative and lively program.  Registration required.

Alicia Ashman Branch - Madison Public Library
733 N. High Point Rd.
Madison, WI 53717
608-824-1780
Contact person: Margie Navarre-Saaf


East and West Towne Mall Trick-or-Treat
East and West Towne Malls
Monday, October 31, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
http://www.shopwesttowne-mall.com/shop/westtowne.nsf/SpecialEventsPrint?OpenView
Trick-or-Treat on the safe and warm streets of our indoor shopping malls.


A Taco Halloween - featuring The Five Amazing Tacos
Barnes & Noble East
East Towne Mall, 608-241-4695
Saturday, October 29 10:30 AM
Join us for an extra crunchy, extra spicy, and extra haunted Halloween special performed by the notorious Five Amazing Tacos! Wear a costume and come prepared to shake, shudder, and shiver--with laughter!


Oregon Community Halloween Party
A-Z Farms, 1820 Schuster Rd., Oregon, WI
Thursday October 27 - Saturday October 29, 2005 10am - 2pm & 4pm - 8pm
Cost: Before 2:00 p.m, $3/person. After 4:00 p.m., $5/person. Children 2 and under free.
http://www.oregonwi.com/
Bring your ghosts, witches, and goblins to this annual event and enjoy games, prizes and tons of fun.  During this three-day event, mornings are the non-scary event, which run from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Evening addition of the Haunted Stables from 4:00 until 8:00 p.m.


The Flying Karamazov Brothers
Overture Center
Wednesday, November 2, 7:30 PM
Cost $29, $24, $19
http://www.overturecenter.com/Performances/karamazov.htm

The Flying Karamazov Brothers sing, dance and juggle their way through a midlife crisis that becomes a dazzling vaudevillian romp through the stages of life. Bring your children, bring your grandmother, and expect the unexpected with loony musical numbers and, of course, Dmitri, “The Champ,” facing the challenge of juggling any three items the audience brings to the stage (no live animals or things that could cause Dmitri to cease being a live animal, please.)


Tunes At Monona Terrace
Monona Terrace Exhibition Hall - FREE EVENT
Wednesday, November 2 - 5:30pm-7:00pm
http://www.mononaterrace.com/community/community_events.html
Do you miss the outdoor concerts that make Madison a fun place to be in the summer time?  Well no fear, the Monona Terrace Exhibition Hall is hosting a series of free community concerts.  Concessions and beverages will be on sale.  Here is their full schedule for the season:

November
02 Tony Castaneda Latin Jazz Sextet - Jazz
16 Ladies Must Swing - Big Band Swing
30 Copper Box - Accordion Swamp Rock
Please bring a non-perishable food item or cash donation to this concert to donate to the Share Your Holidays to Eliminate Hunger Food Drive.

December
07 All That Jazz - 20 pc. Jazz Band
Please bring a non-perishable food item or cash donation to this concert to donate to the Share Your Holidays to Eliminate Hunger Food Drive.
14 Six of One - Jazz/Blues/Latin/Originals


Dragon Tales Live "Missing Music Mystery"
Alliant Energy Center
Thursday, November 3, 2005 - Sunday, November 6, 2005 - Prices $16-$25
http://www.dragontaleslive.com
The #1 kids' show on PBS is touring across the nation - Live and On Stage! Dragon Tales Live "Missing Music Mystery" is a kid-sized mystery with sing-along music, eye-popping special effects and non-stop fun!

 


Reminder: Madison Public Schools will be closed October 27-28.
MSCR has a Kids 

Day Out program.  See page 10 of http://www.mscr.org/files/guides/32.pdf for details. There is also a kid's camp program available through Keva Sports for kids during the break.  If you know of others, let me know and I will post them.


Sign Up Now For...

Arts In Action at TAPIT/new works 
1957 Winnebago Street - 244-3938
Six Week Program starting November 7 or 9

www.tapitnewworks.org
Get Ready for Arts in Action! Starting in early November, area children will have a chance to move art off the page and stage and into their lives. “Arts In Action,” a new educational initiative from TAPIT/new works, will offer 4th and 5th graders quality training in theater arts and show participants how to incorporate these lessons into everyday experience. Taught by Donna Peckett and Carolyne Haycraft, experienced educators and theater professionals, “Arts In Action” is a 6-week after school arts education program. The weekly sessions are 90 minutes long and feature training in both acting and theater movement, with students developing their own performance pieces on issues which matter to them. Students will use games, improvisation and short stories to learn the basics of character development, and explore the essential elements of stage movement with rhythm, sound and props. “Arts In Action” will engage students’ creativity and imagination, helping them connect with the world in new and exciting ways. Participants may sign up for either the Monday session, running from 2 -3:30 pm, November 7 through December 12, or the Wednesday session, running from 3:30 -5 pm November 9 through December 14. All classes take place at TAPIT/new works on Madison’s east side, at 1957 Winnebago Street. The fee is $120 for the 6-week session. Please call or e-mail TAPIT/new works at 244-2938, or info@tapitnewworks.org, to register or for more information. To learn more about this 20 year-old performing arts organization, check out the Company website at www.tapitnewworks.org.


Ongoing Activites...

Kids in the Rotunda
Overture Center
Saturdays, October 29 - December 10, 11:00am - 1:00pm - FREE
http://www.overturecenter.com/rotunda.htm

Every Saturday during the school year from fall through spring, Overture Center offers free arts programs designed for children and families at 11 AM and 1 PM.  Our popular performing arts series for children and families, offers a relaxed environment in which to enjoy a diverse lineup of local and regional storytellers, musicians, juggler, theater troupes, magicians and dancers. The 1 PM performances are sign language interpreted.  Kids in the Rotunda takes place on the Rotunda Stage.

Entertainment this week: Cash Box Kings    40s and 50s Blues


Treinen Farm Corn Maze
W 12420 Hwy 60, Lodi - map
Now until it gets really, really cold!
Adults $7, children 6-11 $5
http://www.treinenfarm.com/
This year's maze is in the cat and the fiddle, with friends the cow, the moon, the little dog and the very challenging dish and spoon labyrinth. Enjoy a unique experience-find your way through our 10-acre cornfield maze with over 3 miles of twists, turns and dead ends. Challenge yourself, your friends and family members to solve the maze and find all the clues in this mind-boggling living puzzle. There's a special prize for those persistent enough to find ALL the secret locations in the maze. In October, you can also take a horse drawn wagon ride through the beautiful Wisconsin countryside to the pumpkin patch.

Normal Hours through November 14
Saturday 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.
Sunday 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

 


Eplegaarden Farm
2227 Fitchburg Road, Fitchburg, Wisconsin
(
608)845-5966
Hours through October 31 - Mon. – Sat. 9 AM – 5 PM Sunday 11 AM – 5 PM
Live folk music Sundays 1:00pm-4:00pm

http://www.eplegaarden.com/happenings.html

What a fun place!  Enjoy the haunted tour.  Prices are a la carte, and can add up on you fast, but for us it was a great investment in a fun activity for the family.

 


Schuster's Farm
Schuster's Playtime Farm, 1326 Hwy 12 & 18, Deerfield
(608) 764-8488   email: playtime@chorus.net

Cost varies by activity (price list)
http://www.schustersplaytimefarm.com
Activities on the farm include hayrides, corn maze, barnyard activities, pumpkin picking and more.

Daytime hours:
Mon.-Thurs. 9:00am-7:00pm
Fri. & Sat. 9:00 am-9:30 pm
Sunday 10:00 am-6:00 pm
Flashlight Corn Maze hours:
Fri. & Sat. 9/2-10/8-entry allowed until 9:30 pm
Haunted Corn Maze hours:  
Fri. & Sat. from dark-10:00 pm (10/14-10/29) also Thursday 10/27


Kids Corner Classes - Olbrich Gardens
Olbrich Botanical Gardens 3330 Atwood Avenue Madison, Wisconsin
various days through November
http://www.olbrich.org/Education/Classes/Childrens_Classes/kids_corner_class_fall.htm

Olbrich offers hands-on plant workshops for children.  Each class includes a take-home component.  Children must be accompanied by an adult. Adults attend at no charge.  Maximum of 4 children per adult.  Some activities are geared for the toddler age and some for the 5 and up crowd.  Check out the details online at the link above.


October 21 - October 27
My apologies for the delay in this week's update.  Our web servers crashed and I am finally back online!

If you haven't looked outside yet, the weather is not looking pretty.  It's going to be cold and rainy for a few days so I will do all I can to find indoor activities to enjoy for us.

Understanding Autism
Saturday November 5 - 6:30pm
Please RSVP asap

We (my wife and I) are hosting a discussion forum on understanding autism on November 5th.  The session is geared towards building understanding about autism-- what is it, how if affects families, and community resources.  This forum is designed to foster dialogue, learning and connections to help individuals and families understand autism in an open environment.  The desire is to bring together people who want to better understand the disorder.  Some childcare is available.  Click on the link above for details.

Now on to our events...


Madison Children's Museum - Recommended Event
The Body Shop: Tune Up Your Teeth and Bones, grand opening
starting Saturday, October 22 9:00am - 5:00pm

http://www.uwbadgers.com

MCM's newest exhibit promotes healthy bodies and healthy habits. Whether children are sports fanatics or natural scientists, The Body Shop reminds us that our bodies are incredible machines, and that taking care of them is FUN! Loosely modeled after an auto body shop, the exhibit features creative activities that help us think about our bodies in new ways. The Body Shop opens with a hop, skip, and a jump (and a hiccup or two!) on October 22. 

Opening day activities include:

  • Salto's Horrible Hiccups, 11 a.m. & 1 p.m

  • MCM cosponsors free performances at Kids in the Rotunda, Overture Center for the Arts. This original musical by local favorite Ken Lonnquist sings the praises of friendship and good nutrition in a bilingual tale set in Old Mexico.

  • State Street Hop-a-Thon, 12 noon; jump rope marathon outside the museum 

  • Drop-in art activities inside the museum throughout the day



Barnes & Noble Reading/Storytimes

Barnes & Noble West 7433 Mineral Point Rd. 608-827-0809
http://storelocator.barnesandnoble.com/events.do
Saturday, October 22, 10:30am

Magic Tree House Club is a book group for beginning readers (ages 5-8). 
Saturday, October 22, 11:15am
The Learn Spanish Club is a conversation group for beginning readers (ages 5-8).

Barnes & Noble East Towne Mall #1 East Towne Mall 608-241-4695
http://storelocator.barnesandnoble.com/events.do

Saturday, October 22, 10:30am
The American Girls Club is for young Readers (ages 8-12).


Haunted Ringlingville
Circus World Museum 550 Water St. 608-356-8341 Baraboo  [MAP]
October 21-23 and 28-31 5:00pm - 8:00pm
Cost $5 ($3 ages 6 & under). 866-693-1500
http://www.circusworldmuseum.com/seasonalprograms/hauntedringlinville.html

Vintage Halloween Cartoons & 3 Stooges Shorts on the Big Screen. The "Not so Spooky" House for Little Boils and Ghouls.


Aliens Among Us
UW Space Place - 2300 S. Park St., Suite LL-100 - 608-262-4779  [MAP]
Saturday, October 22, 10:00am - FREE

http://www.spaceplace.wisc.edu/

"Aliens Among Us" - a workshop for children ages 6-10.


McKee Farms Flyers
McKee Farms Park, (Fish Hatchery & Hwy PD). Everyone welcome. 271-8265, 663-5822.
Noon-4pm, Sunday, October 23

Maybe the rain will lift by Sunday afternoon for kite flying. There's no cover charge at all and everyone is welcome to attend and to fly their own kites.


Family Concert: The Goteborg Brass Band
Monona Terrace
Wednesday, October 26, 2005 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM - FREE
http://www.mononaterrace.com/community/community_events.html
All the way from Göteborg, Sweden! This internationally acclaimed group is truly a trendsetter. Breaking through long-held traditions, the group has helped create a belief in the brass band as an ensemble within the world of classical and orchestral music. Enjoy the music of the Göteborg Brass Band conducted by its founder, Bengt Eklund. http://www.goteborgbrassband.org.se 


Wayne the Wizard at JT Whitney's
674 S. Whitney Way - Madison, WI 53711 - 608-274-1776
Every Monday from 6:00pm - 8:00pm
http://www.jtwhitneys.com/diningroom/
Mondays are kids night at JT Whitney's.  Wayne the Wizard performs magic for the children of all ages.  Kids eat free with an adult meal purchase.


Reminder: Madison Public Schools will be closed October 27-28.
MSCR has a Kids 

Day Out program.  See page 10 of http://www.mscr.org/files/guides/32.pdf for details. There is also a kid's camp program available through Keva Sports for kids during the break.  If you know of others, let me know and I will post them.


Buy Tickets Now For...

Schoolhouse Rock
Overture Center
Various dates from October 7 - October 30 
$24 Adults, $16 Students, children 12 and under, and seniors, Thursdays are half price
http://www.madisonfamilytheatre.org/shows/index.html#school

This award-winning story of a nerve-wracked instructor who finds inspiration for teaching his students with imagination and music will have the audience humming along. Features your favorite songs from the television series: "Unpack Your Adjectives," "Just A Bill," "Conjunction Junction," and many more! 


Ongoing Activites...

Kids in the Rotunda
Overture Center
Saturdays, October 8 - December 10, 11:00am - 1:00pm - FREE
http://www.overturecenter.com/rotunda.htm

Every Saturday during the school year from fall through spring, Overture Center offers free arts programs designed for children and families at 11 AM and 1 PM.  Our popular performing arts series for children and families, offers a relaxed environment in which to enjoy a diverse lineup of local and regional storytellers, musicians, juggler, theater troupes, magicians and dancers. The 1 PM performances are sign language interpreted.  Kids in the Rotunda takes place on the Rotunda Stage.

Entertainment this week: Ken Lonnquist and Friends    Salto's Horrible Hiccups
PLEASE NOTE VENUE CHANGE:  this production will take place in the Overture Hall main lobby

 


Treinen Farm Corn Maze
W 12420 Hwy 60, Lodi - map
Now until it gets really, really cold!
Adults $7, children 6-11 $5
http://www.treinenfarm.com/
This year's maze is in the cat and the fiddle, with friends the cow, the moon, the little dog and the very challenging dish and spoon labyrinth. Enjoy a unique experience-find your way through our 10-acre cornfield maze with over 3 miles of twists, turns and dead ends. Challenge yourself, your friends and family members to solve the maze and find all the clues in this mind-boggling living puzzle. There's a special prize for those persistent enough to find ALL the secret locations in the maze. In October, you can also take a horse drawn wagon ride through the beautiful Wisconsin countryside to the pumpkin patch.

Normal Hours through November 14
Saturday 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.
Sunday 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

 


Eplegaarden Farm
2227 Fitchburg Road, Fitchburg, Wisconsin
(
608)845-5966
Hours through October 31 - Mon. – Sat. 9 AM – 5 PM Sunday 11 AM – 5 PM
Live folk music Sundays 1:00pm-4:00pm

http://www.eplegaarden.com/happenings.html

What a fun place!  Enjoy the haunted tour.  Prices are a la carte, and can add up on you fast, but for us it was a great investment in a fun activity for the family.

 


Schuster's Farm
Schuster's Playtime Farm, 1326 Hwy 12 & 18, Deerfield
(608) 764-8488   email: playtime@chorus.net

Cost varies by activity (price list)
http://www.schustersplaytimefarm.com
Activities on the farm include hayrides, corn maze, barnyard activities, pumpkin picking and more.

Daytime hours:
Mon.-Thurs. 9:00am-7:00pm
Fri. & Sat. 9:00 am-9:30 pm
Sunday 10:00 am-6:00 pm
Flashlight Corn Maze hours:
Fri. & Sat. 9/2-10/8-entry allowed until 9:30 pm
Haunted Corn Maze hours:  
Fri. & Sat. from dark-10:00 pm (10/14-10/29) also Thursday 10/27


Kids Corner Classes - Olbrich Gardens
Olbrich Botanical Gardens 3330 Atwood Avenue Madison, Wisconsin
various days through November
http://www.olbrich.org/Education/Classes/Childrens_Classes/kids_corner_class_fall.htm

Olbrich offers hands-on plant workshops for children.  Each class includes a take-home component.  Children must be accompanied by an adult. Adults attend at no charge.  Maximum of 4 children per adult.  Some activities are geared for the toddler age and some for the 5 and up crowd.  Check out the details online at the link above.

 


October 14 - October 20
This week is looking like another beautiful fall weather week.  Maybe some rain on Monday, but otherwise, beautiful!

Understanding Autism
We (my wife and I) are hosting a discussion forum on understanding autism on November 5th.  The session is geared towards building understanding about autism-- what is it, how if affects families, and community resources.  This forum is designed to foster dialogue, learning and connections to help individuals and families understand autism in an open, non-judgmental environment.  The desire is to bring together people who want to better understand the disorder.  Some childcare is available.  Click on the link above for details.

Now on to our events...


UW Women's Volleyball - Recommended Event
UW Field House
Friday, October 14, 7:00pm

http://www.uwbadgers.com

If you have not taken your kids to a UW Women's Volleyball game before, I would highly recommend it.  Try to sit on the front row of general admission (the ends of the court) so that the kids can jump around and dance during time outs.  Bring your camera to get pictures of your kids with Bucky Badger!  


Science In The City - Energy In Our Daily Lives
UW Space Place - 2300 S. Park St., Suite LL-100 - 608-262-4779  [MAP]
Saturday, October 15, 10:00am - FREE

http://www.spaceplace.wisc.edu/

"Energy in Our Daily Lives" - Find out to make your own battery and electric motor at this hands-on session. Presented by the Wisconsin Initiative for Science Literacy.  Space Place family workshops are for children ages 6-10 and their parents, and are offered the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of every month. The workshops are free and open to the public. No registration is required for any of the workshops.



Barnes & Noble Reading/Storytimes

Barnes & Noble West 7433 Mineral Point Rd. 608-827-0809
B is for Bookworm: A Library Alphabet
Reading by illustrator/artist Renee Graef
Saturday, October 15, 10:30am
http://storelocator.barnesandnoble.com/events.do

Meet Renee Graef, the artist/illustrator of the much-acclaimed, B is for Badger: A Wisconsin Alphabet. Today Renee will introduce her new book B is for Bookworm: A Library Alphabet. Children, parents, and educators will be captivated by author Anita Prieto's playful rhymes and fact-filled text which are brought to life by Graef's engaging, original artwork. Renee will read the book, and discuss how words and pictures come together.

Barnes & Noble East Towne Mall #1 East Towne Mall 608-241-4695
Super Saturday Imagination Storytime
Saturday, October 15, 10:30am
http://storelocator.barnesandnoble.com/events.do

Performance by the 5 Amazing Tacos.
Saturday, October 15 at 2:00 p.m.

Special Guest: Froggy!
Meet Froggy! First, we will read about one of his hopping adventures, and then Froggy will visit the children! Parents, bring your cameras for this special even
t!

Note: There is an Educator Appreciation Breakfast at 8:00am at both the east and west Barnes & Noble locations on Saturday.  Call the numbers above for details.


Fire Prevention Month - Fire Station Open House
Fire Station Open House
All City of Madison Fire Stations
Saturday, October 15 - 9:00am - 3:00pm

Station 1: 316 West Dayton St.
Station 2: 421 Grand Canyon Dr.
Station 3: 1217 Williamson St.
Station 4: 1437 Monroe St.
Station 5: 4418 Cottage Grove Rd.
Station 6: 825 West Badger Rd
Station 7: 1810 McKenna Blvd.
Station 8: 3945 Lien Rd.
Station 9: 201 N. Midvale Blvd.
Station 10: 1517 Troy Drive
Station 11: 4011 Morgan Way

Fitchburg Fire Department Open House
Fire Station No. 1 at 5791 Lacy Road
Saturday, October 15 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm
(this is the correct date)
http://www.fitchburgfire.com/services/openhouse/2005openhouse.html


Egg Drop Challenge
Madison Children's Museum
Saturday, October 15, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

http://www.madisonchildrensmuseum.org/events/events.php?category_id=0&subcategory_id=0&day=15&year=2005&month=10
Use recycled materials to build a protective container, then load a fresh egg into your launch pod and drop it from a ladder to test your container's cushioning powers.


National Chemistry Week Kick-off
Exploring the science behind various toys

Toys "R" Us West, 7309 West Towne Way. Free. 239-2556
Sunday, October 16, 10:00am - 3:00pm - FREE

http://www.thedailypage.com/going-out/theguide/print_event.php?id=129968
To kick-off National Chemistry Week, kids and parents are invited to explore the science behind lava lamps, the Etch A Sketch and Magna Doodle, as well as learn how liquid crystals are used in a variety of toys. Hands-on booths will be set-up from 10 AM - 3 PM. The activities are sponsored by the local Wisconsin section of the American Chemical Society, the department of chemistry at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and the Institute for Chemical Education; and involves undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, industrial chemists and retirees as volunteers.


Wayne the Wizard at JT Whitney's
674 S. Whitney Way - Madison, WI 53711 - 608-274-1776
Every Monday from 6:00pm - 8:00pm
http://www.jtwhitneys.com/diningroom/
Mondays are kids night at JT Whitney's.  Wayne the Wizard performs magic for the children of all ages.  Kids eat free with an adult meal purchase.


Reminder: Madison Public Schools will be closed October 27-28.
MSCR has a Kids 

Day Out program.  See page 10 of http://www.mscr.org/files/guides/32.pdf for details. There is also a kid's camp program available through Keva Sports for kids during the break.  If you know of others, let me know and I will post them.


Buy Tickets Now For...

Schoolhouse Rock
Overture Center
Various dates from October 7 - October 30 
$24 Adults, $16 Students, children 12 and under, and seniors, Thursdays are half price
http://www.madisonfamilytheatre.org/shows/index.html#school

This award-winning story of a nerve-wracked instructor who finds inspiration for teaching his students with imagination and music will have the audience humming along. Features your favorite songs from the television series: "Unpack Your Adjectives," "Just A Bill," "Conjunction Junction," and many more! 


Ongoing Activites...

Kids in the Rotunda
Overture Center
Saturdays, October 8 - December 10, 11:00am - 1:00pm - FREE
http://www.overturecenter.com/rotunda.htm

Every Saturday during the school year from fall through spring, Overture Center offers free arts programs designed for children and families at 11 AM and 1 PM.  Our popular performing arts series for children and families, offers a relaxed environment in which to enjoy a diverse lineup of local and regional storytellers, musicians, juggler, theater troupes, magicians and dancers. The 1 PM performances are sign language interpreted.  Kids in the Rotunda takes place on the Rotunda Stage.

Entertainment this week: Yid Vicious    Klezmer (Yiddish Folk) Jamboree

 


Treinen Farm Corn Maze
W 12420 Hwy 60, Lodi - map
Now until it gets really, really cold!
Adults $7, children 6-11 $5
http://www.treinenfarm.com/
This year's maze is in the cat and the fiddle, with friends the cow, the moon, the little dog and the very challenging dish and spoon labyrinth. Enjoy a unique experience-find your way through our 10-acre cornfield maze with over 3 miles of twists, turns and dead ends. Challenge yourself, your friends and family members to solve the maze and find all the clues in this mind-boggling living puzzle. There's a special prize for those persistent enough to find ALL the secret locations in the maze. In October, you can also take a horse drawn wagon ride through the beautiful Wisconsin countryside to the pumpkin patch.

Normal Hours through November 14
Saturday 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.
Sunday 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

 


Eplegaarden Farm
2227 Fitchburg Road, Fitchburg, Wisconsin
(
608)845-5966
Hours through October 31 - Mon. – Sat. 9 AM – 5 PM Sunday 11 AM – 5 PM
Live folk music Sundays 1:00pm-4:00pm

http://www.eplegaarden.com/happenings.html

What a fun place!  Enjoy the haunted tour.  Prices are a la carte, and can add up on you fast, but for us it was a great investment in a fun activity for the family.

 


Schuster's Farm
Schuster's Playtime Farm, 1326 Hwy 12 & 18, Deerfield
(608) 764-8488   email: playtime@chorus.net

Cost varies by activity (price list)
http://www.schustersplaytimefarm.com
Activities on the farm include hayrides, corn maze, barnyard activities, pumpkin picking and more.

Daytime hours:
Mon.-Thurs. 9:00am-7:00pm
Fri. & Sat. 9:00 am-9:30 pm
Sunday 10:00 am-6:00 pm
Flashlight Corn Maze hours:
Fri. & Sat. 9/2-10/8-entry allowed until 9:30 pm
Haunted Corn Maze hours:  
Fri. & Sat. from dark-10:00 pm (10/14-10/29) also Thursday 10/27


Kids Corner Classes - Olbrich Gardens
Olbrich Botanical Gardens 3330 Atwood Avenue Madison, Wisconsin
various days through November
http://www.olbrich.org/Education/Classes/Childrens_Classes/kids_corner_class_fall.htm

Olbrich offers hands-on plant workshops for children.  Each class includes a take-home component.  Children must be accompanied by an adult. Adults attend at no charge.  Maximum of 4 children per adult.  Some activities are geared for the toddler age and some for the 5 and up crowd.  Check out the details online at the link above.

 


October 7 - October 13
Finally, fall weather is upon us!  Looks like a beautiful, seasonal week.  Grab the jackets and get out there!

Note that we have added a new section to the selwyn.org site entitled "Understanding Autism".  We are hosting this forum in our home on 05-Nov, and everyone is invited to take part.  Click on the Understanding Autism link for more details.


New Glarus Octoberfest
New Glarus, WI [map] - 608-527-2095
Friday, October 7, 2005 - Sunday, October 9, 2005
http://www.swisstown.com/festivals.shtml
Looks like a truly authentic Octoberfest with lots of demonstrations of how things were done "back in the old days".  Plenty of live music, food, and drink.  As far as for the kids, from what I could glean from the website there are wagon rides Saturday and Sunday afternoons and kids games starting at 11:00am on Saturday and Sunday. 


UW Women's Volleyball - Recommended Event
UW Field House
Friday, October 7, 7:00pm
Saturday, October 8, 7:00pm
Wednesday, October 12, 7:00pm

http://www.uwbadgers.com

If you have not taken your kids to a UW Women's Volleyball game before, I would highly recommend it.  Try to sit on the front row of general admission (the ends of the court) so that the kids can jump around and dance during time outs.  Bring your camera to get pictures of your kids with Bucky Badger!  On Friday stop by the main concourse to enjoy a kids' inflatable jump castle before the game and acapella music at intermission.  On Saturday get balloon animals on the main concourse from 6:00pm - 7:00pm and receive trading cards of some of the UW players. 


Great Pumpkin Giveaway
Oak Bank at PD & Seminole Hwy
Saturday, October 8 - 10:00am - 1:00pm
http://www.fitchburgchamber.com/events.php
Kids of all ages receive a free pumpkin, bobbing for apples, refreshments and face painting. Oak Bank Parking lot at the corner of Hwy PD & Seminole Highway.


Walking Softly in the Wilderness
UW Arboretum - 1207 Seminole Highway - 263-7888
Saturday, October 8 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm
http://www.uwarboretum.org/events/
When John Muir left Madison in 1862, he said he was leaving the University of Wisconsin to attend the “University of the Wilderness.” We’ll learn about wild places—why we should save them, how we should treat them, and what they are still teaching us.  On the second Saturday of every month, UW Arboretum offers a two-hour, kid-friendly program that uses nature hikes, stories, crafts and activities to explore animals, plants and natural phenomena.


Airplane Rides through MSCR
Dane County Airport - Call MSCR at 204-3000 to register - Recommended Event
Saturday, October 8 - various time slots during the day - $30
http://www.mscr.org/files/guides/32.pdf
Ride in a single engine airplane at the Madison Airport as part of the EAA Young Eagles Program. Parents must attend with children; only children fly. Must complete Young Eagle waiver forms. See pages 5 and 14 of the Fall 2005 MSCR catalog linked above (.pdf file).  We did this event last month and it was great!!  A very worthwhile experience that your kids will remember for a long time.  You must register in advance.


Walk4Autism
Warner Park - Recommended Event
Sunday, October 9 - 1:00pm 
http://www.walk4autism.org/
The annual Walk4Autism event is sponsored by Friends of Autism and is comprised of a 5k and 10k walk/run.  A 2.5k option is also available for families with young kids.  A children's activity area is also available.

Whether your life has been touched by autism or you are an individual or group who wants to make a difference, please join us for the first annual Walk4Autism on Sunday October 9th. Food, entertainment prizes will follow the run. We hope to see you there!

What makes Walk4Autism an event that will be remembered is the sense of pride, camaraderie, and personal satisfaction you'll feel knowing that you've helped raise awareness that autism can and will be beaten. The funds raised go a long way toward helping us continue to fund autism programs of research, education, advocacy and service to autistic children and their families.

All proceeds of the walk will benefit Friends Of Autism, a non-profit foundation which supports and promotes research, education, awareness and support for children affected by autism.


Fire Truck Parade - Fire Prevention Month
State Street between Lake Street and the Capital - Recommended Event
Sunday, October 9 - 1:00pm - FREE!
http://www.doa.state.wi.us/events_detail.asp?eventid=364&evcatid=1
This is our family's favorite fall event!  Nearly 50 fire trucks will parade down state street and line up along the Capital Square.  Once they are all lined up, kids get to climb in and check out all of the different trucks-- from a Model T fire truck with a hand crank horn to the latest and greatest in fire prevention gear.

Take your camera as photo opps are abundant!  Bring a picnic lunch and blanket and set up early for the best spot (on the 100 block of State Street).  See our pictures from 2004 and 2003.  

Here is another Fire Prevention Month activity to put on your calendar for the following week:

Fire Station Open House
All City of Madison Fire Stations
Saturday, October 15 - 9:00am - 3:00pm

Station 1: 316 West Dayton St.
Station 2: 421 Grand Canyon Dr.
Station 3: 1217 Williamson St.
Station 4: 1437 Monroe St.
Station 5: 4418 Cottage Grove Rd.
Station 6: 825 West Badger Rd
Station 7: 1810 McKenna Blvd.
Station 8: 3945 Lien Rd.
Station 9: 201 N. Midvale Blvd.
Station 10: 1517 Troy Drive
Station 11: 4011 Morgan Way

Fitchburg Fire Department Open House
Fire Station No. 1 at 5791 Lacy Road
Saturday, October 15 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm
(this is the correct date)
http://www.fitchburgfire.com/services/openhouse/2005openhouse.html


Why Do Leaves Change Color? (Family Walk)
UW Arboretum - 1207 Seminole Highway - 263-7888
Sunday, October 9 - 1:30pm - 2:30pm
http://www.uwarboretum.org/events/
Families can learn how to appreciate and understand the wonder of fall color in native trees and the prairie grasses.  On the second Sunday of every month, UW Arboretum offers a one-hour family walk with topics that are especially appealing to youngsters.


McFarland Fire Department Open House
McFarland Municipal Center - 5915 Milwaukee Street - FREE EVENT
Wednesday, October 12 - 6:00pm-8:00pm
http://www.mcfarland.wi.us/fire/calendar.asp
Open House at the McFarland Fire Department.


Tunes At Monona Terrace
Monona Terrace Exhibition Hall - FREE EVENT
Wednesday, October 12 - 5:30pm-7:00pm
http://www.mononaterrace.com/community/community_events.html
Do you miss the outdoor concerts that make Madison a fun place to be in the summer time?  Well no fear, the Monona Terrace Exhibition Hall is hosting a series of free community concerts.  Concessions and beverages will be on sale.  Here is their full schedule for the season:

October
12 The Competition with Little Vito - 50s & 60s

November
02 Tony Castaneda Latin Jazz Sextet - Jazz
16 Ladies Must Swing - Big Band Swing
30 Copper Box - Accordion Swamp Rock
Please bring a non-perishable food item or cash donation to this concert to donate to the Share Your Holidays to Eliminate Hunger Food Drive.

December
07 All That Jazz - 20 pc. Jazz Band
Please bring a non-perishable food item or cash donation to this concert to donate to the Share Your Holidays to Eliminate Hunger Food Drive.
14 Six of One - Jazz/Blues/Latin/Originals


Reminder: Madison Public Schools will be closed October 27-28.
MSCR has a Kids 

Day Out program.  See page 10 of http://www.mscr.org/files/guides/32.pdf for details. There is also a kid's camp program available through Keva Sports for kids during the break.  If you know of others, let me know and I will post them.


Buy Tickets Now For...

Schoolhouse Rock
Overture Center
Various dates from October 7 - October 30 
$24 Adults, $16 Students, children 12 and under, and seniors, Thursdays are half price
http://www.madisonfamilytheatre.org/shows/index.html#school

This award-winning story of a nerve-wracked instructor who finds inspiration for teaching his students with imagination and music will have the audience humming along. Features your favorite songs from the television series: "Unpack Your Adjectives," "Just A Bill," "Conjunction Junction," and many more! 

Register Now For...

Children's Workshop: Tiny Terrariums - Recommended Event
Olbrich Botanical Gardens  3330 Atwood Avenue, Madison, WI
Sunday, October 16th, 10:00am - 11:30am

http://www.olbrich.org/Education/Classes/Childrens_Classes/tiny_terrariums.htm
Join Paul Williams to create your very own wee land suitable for an elf or fairy. You will design a garden in a container with miniature mosses and ferns. Then decorate the pint–sized landscape with tiny mementos that you bring along or choose from polished rocks or shells provided. For ages 7 & up.  The registration deadline is October 6. The cost is $10 for children of Olbrich Botanical Society members and $12 for the general public. For more information, call 608-246-4550.


Ongoing Activites...

Kids in the Rotunda
Overture Center
Saturdays, October 8 - December 10, 11:00am - 1:00pm - FREE
http://www.overturecenter.com/rotunda.htm

Every Saturday during the school year from fall through spring, Overture Center offers free arts programs designed for children and families at 11 AM and 1 PM.  Our popular performing arts series for children and families, offers a relaxed environment in which to enjoy a diverse lineup of local and regional storytellers, musicians, juggler, theater troupes, magicians and dancers. The 1 PM performances are sign language interpreted.  Kids in the Rotunda takes place on the Rotunda Stage.

Entertainment this week: Mark Hayward - Yo-yo champion/Juggler/Cool Guy

 


Treinen Farm Corn Maze
W 12420 Hwy 60, Lodi - map
Now until it gets really, really cold!
Adults $7, children 6-11 $5
http://www.treinenfarm.com/
This year's maze is in the cat and the fiddle, with friends the cow, the moon, the little dog and the very challenging dish and spoon labyrinth. Enjoy a unique experience-find your way through our 10-acre cornfield maze with over 3 miles of twists, turns and dead ends. Challenge yourself, your friends and family members to solve the maze and find all the clues in this mind-boggling living puzzle. There's a special prize for those persistent enough to find ALL the secret locations in the maze. In October, you can also take a horse drawn wagon ride through the beautiful Wisconsin countryside to the pumpkin patch.

Normal Hours through November 14
Saturday 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.
Sunday 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

 


Eplegaarden Farm
2227 Fitchburg Road, Fitchburg, Wisconsin
(
608)845-5966
Hours through October 31 - Mon. – Sat. 9 AM – 5 PM Sunday 11 AM – 5 PM
Live folk music Sundays 1:00pm-4:00pm

http://www.eplegaarden.com/happenings.html

What a fun place!  Enjoy the haunted tour.  Prices are a la carte, and can add up on you fast, but for us it was a great investment in a fun activity for the family.

 


Schuster's Farm
Schuster's Playtime Farm, 1326 Hwy 12 & 18, Deerfield
(608) 764-8488   email: playtime@chorus.net

Cost varies by activity (price list)
http://www.schustersplaytimefarm.com
Activities on the farm include hayrides, corn maze, barnyard activities, pumpkin picking and more.

Daytime hours:
Mon.-Thurs. 9:00am-7:00pm
Fri. & Sat. 9:00 am-9:30 pm
Sunday 10:00 am-6:00 pm
Flashlight Corn Maze hours:
Fri. & Sat. 9/2-10/8-entry allowed until 9:30 pm
Haunted Corn Maze hours:  
Fri. & Sat. from dark-10:00 pm (10/14-10/29) also Thursday 10/27


Kids Corner Classes - Olbrich Gardens
Olbrich Botanical Gardens 3330 Atwood Avenue Madison, Wisconsin
various days through November
http://www.olbrich.org/Education/Classes/Childrens_Classes/kids_corner_class_fall.htm

Olbrich offers hands-on plant workshops for children.  Each class includes a take-home component.  Children must be accompanied by an adult. Adults attend at no charge.  Maximum of 4 children per adult.  Some activities are geared for the toddler age and some for the 5 and up crowd.  Check out the details online at the link above.


September 30 - October 6

Reminder: Madison Public Schools will be closed October 27-28.
MSCR has a Kids 

Day Out program.  See page 10 of http://www.mscr.org/files/guides/32.pdf for details. There is also a kid's camp program available through Keva Sports for kids during the break.  If you know of others, let me know and I will post them.


Down Syndrome Society Buddy Walk
Warner Park
Saturday, October 1, Check-in starts at 9:30am, Walk at 11:00am

http://www.madss.org/buddywalk/buddywalk_2005.php
The Buddy Walk is a national event created to help promote acceptance, awareness, and inclusion of people with Down syndrome.  The word "buddy" refers to the friends, family and supporters of children and adults with Down syndrome who participate in the event.  The Madison Area Buddy Walk is a 1-mile family-friendly event, which requires no special training.  Proceeds from the Buddy Walk fund research, community outreach, education and family support initiatives at the state, local and national levels. 

Local mascots, including Maynard Mallard and Scoopy from Culvers will be on hand, and visits with local police will take place before the walk.  They will also have a Bounce House and Super Slide for kids of all ages, and live music.  Pizza and frozen custard will be provided free to all participants.


24th Annual Mount Horeb Fall Heritage Festival
Downtown Mt. Horeb
Saturday, October 1 - Sunday, October 2nd

http://www.trollway.com/ also see http://www.trollway.com/images/fall%20fest%20program%20&%20map.pdf

Art & craft fair, live music, pumpkin decorating contest, storytelling, farmer's market, quilt show, horse & buggy rides, and ethnic foods.  Looks like a pretty small event, but may be good for the younger kids or kids that need less chaotic events. 


Wollersheim Winery Grape Stomp Festival
Wollersheim Winery (15 min north of Madison)
Cost: $3 age 12+
Saturday, October 1 - Sunday, October 2nd 10:00am-5:00pm

http://www.wollersheimwinery.com/events.asp?mode=detail&id=1
A festive event of grape stomping contests, grape spitting contests, cork toss competition, grilled food, live music and wine tasting plus new this year our own outdoor Grape Theater featuring hourly performances. Fun for the whole family!  There will be a kid's grape stomp on Saturday at 3:30pm and Sunday at 1:30pm.  The winery will also be collecting non-perishable items for the local food pantry at the gate.


Tunes At Monona Terrace
Monona Terrace Exhibition Hall - FREE EVENT
Wednesday, October 12 - 5:30pm-7:00pm
http://www.mononaterrace.com/community/community_events.html
Do you miss the outdoor concerts that make Madison a fun place to be in the summer time?  Well no fear, the Monona Terrace Exhibition Hall is hosting a series of free community concerts.  Concessions and beverages will be on sale.  Here is their full schedule for the season:

October
12 The Competition with Little Vito - 50s & 60s

November
02 Tony Castaneda Latin Jazz Sextet - Jazz
16 Ladies Must Swing - Big Band Swing
30 Copper Box - Accordion Swamp Rock
Please bring a non-perishable food item or cash donation to this concert to donate to the Share Your Holidays to Eliminate Hunger Food Drive.

December
07 All That Jazz - 20 pc. Jazz Band
Please bring a non-perishable food item or cash donation to this concert to donate to the Share Your Holidays to Eliminate Hunger Food Drive.
14 Six of One - Jazz/Blues/Latin/Originals


Buy Tickets Now For...

Schoolhouse Rock
Overture Center
Various dates from October 7 - October 30 
$24 Adults, $16 Students, children 12 and under, and seniors, Thursdays are half price
http://www.madisonfamilytheatre.org/shows/index.html#school

This award-winning story of a nerve-wracked instructor who finds inspiration for teaching his students with imagination and music will have the audience humming along. Features your favorite songs from the television series: "Unpack Your Adjectives," "Just A Bill," "Conjunction Junction," and many more! 


Ongoing Activites...

Kids in the Rotunda
Overture Center
Saturdays, October 2 - December 10, 11:00am - 1:00pm - FREE
http://www.overturecenter.com/rotunda.htm

Every Saturday during the school year from fall through spring, Overture Center offers free arts programs designed for children and families at 11 AM and 1 PM.  Our popular performing arts series for children and families, offers a relaxed environment in which to enjoy a diverse lineup of local and regional storytellers, musicians, juggler, theater troupes, magicians and dancers. The 1 PM performances are sign language interpreted.  Kids in the Rotunda takes place on the Rotunda Stage.

Entertainment this week: Circus Boy Prop Comic/Stuntman

 


Treinen Farm Corn Maze
W 12420 Hwy 60, Lodi - map
Now until it gets really, really cold!
Adults $7, children 6-11 $5
http://www.treinenfarm.com/
This year's maze is in the cat and the fiddle, with friends the cow, the moon, the little dog and the very challenging dish and spoon labyrinth. Enjoy a unique experience-find your way through our 10-acre cornfield maze with over 3 miles of twists, turns and dead ends. Challenge yourself, your friends and family members to solve the maze and find all the clues in this mind-boggling living puzzle. There's a special prize for those persistent enough to find ALL the secret locations in the maze. In October, you can also take a horse drawn wagon ride through the beautiful Wisconsin countryside to the pumpkin patch.

Normal Hours through November 14
Saturday 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.
Sunday 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

 


Eplegaarden Farm
2227 Fitchburg Road, Fitchburg, Wisconsin
(
608)845-5966
Hours through October 31 - Mon. – Sat. 9 AM – 5 PM Sunday 11 AM – 5 PM
Live folk music Sundays 1:00pm-4:00pm

http://www.eplegaarden.com/happenings.html

You may have read in this week's newspaper that the apple season and pumpkin season are both going to peak early due to the hot weather.  So get out there now before there's nothing to pick!

 


Schuster's Farm
Schuster's Playtime Farm, 1326 Hwy 12 & 18, Deerfield
(608) 764-8488   email: playtime@chorus.net

Cost varies by activity (price list)
Saturday, September 24 2:00pm
http://www.schustersplaytimefarm.com
Activities on the farm include hayrides, corn maze, barnyard activities, pumpkin picking and more.

Daytime hours:
Mon.-Thurs. 9:00am-7:00pm
Fri. & Sat. 9:00 am-9:30 pm
Sunday 10:00 am-6:00 pm
Flashlight Corn Maze hours:
Fri. & Sat. 9/2-10/8-entry allowed until 9:30 pm
Haunted Corn Maze hours:  
Fri. & Sat. from dark-10:00 pm (10/14-10/29) also Thursday 10/27


Kids Corner Classes - Olbrich Gardens
Olbrich Botanical Gardens 3330 Atwood Avenue Madison, Wisconsin
various days through November
http://www.olbrich.org/Education/Classes/Childrens_Classes/kids_corner_class_fall.htm

Olbrich offers hands-on plant workshops for children.  Each class includes a take-home component.  Children must be accompanied by an adult. Adults attend at no charge.  Maximum of 4 children per adult.  Some activities are geared for the toddler age and some for the 5 and up crowd.  Check out the details online at the link above.