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Friday, May 18, 2007
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Terrible Twos... If you opened it, you haveto do it.
Don't forgetto send it back to me too for fun!!?
Copy and paste into a new email and enter yur answers
Two Names You Go By:
1. Terri
2. The family historian (by my sister)
Two Things You Are Wearing Right Now:
1. Blouse
2. Khakis
Two Things You Want in a Relationship:
1. Humor
2. Intelligence
Two of Your Favorite Things to do:
1. Movies
2. Travel
Two Things You Want Very Badly At The
Moment:
1. Money
2. Losing weight
Two pets you had/have:
1. Ripley
2. Marbles
Two people who will fill this out first:
1. ?
2. ?
Two things you did last night:
1. Watch TV
2. Wrote
Two people who live at your house:?
1.
2.
Two things you ate today:
1. Cookies
2. Tacos
Two people you talked to last:?
1. Jon
2. Stephanie
Two Things You're doing tomorrow:
1. Pet sitting
2. Errands
Two longest car rides?:
1. Ga. to TX
2. Ga. to OK
Two Favorite Holidays:
1. Christmas
2. Halloween
Two favorite beverages:
1. Coke
2. Cherry Coke
Don't forgetto send it back to me too for fun!!?
Copy and paste into a new email and enter yur answers
Two Names You Go By:
1. Terri
2. The family historian (by my sister)
Two Things You Are Wearing Right Now:
1. Blouse
2. Khakis
Two Things You Want in a Relationship:
1. Humor
2. Intelligence
Two of Your Favorite Things to do:
1. Movies
2. Travel
Two Things You Want Very Badly At The
Moment:
1. Money
2. Losing weight
Two pets you had/have:
1. Ripley
2. Marbles
Two people who will fill this out first:
1. ?
2. ?
Two things you did last night:
1. Watch TV
2. Wrote
Two people who live at your house:?
1.
2.
Two things you ate today:
1. Cookies
2. Tacos
Two people you talked to last:?
1. Jon
2. Stephanie
Two Things You're doing tomorrow:
1. Pet sitting
2. Errands
Two longest car rides?:
1. Ga. to TX
2. Ga. to OK
Two Favorite Holidays:
1. Christmas
2. Halloween
Two favorite beverages:
1. Coke
2. Cherry Coke
Saturday, May 12, 2007
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Texas Foster Care Bill
By Terri Rimmer
The Texas House of Representatives began floor debate on HB 1, the General Appropriations Bill on March 29th that could affect whether gay people can be foster parents.
The bill is intended to be the state’s budget and not a vehicle for the writing of policy.
Equality Texas was urging all citizens to contact their state representatives two weeks ago and ask him/her to vote against any amendment which seeks to restrict or ban qualified gay and lesbian parents from serving as foster parents.
“Banning or restricting qualified families will hurt Texas children,” an Equality rep said. “17,536 children were removed from homes by the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) after investigation in 2006.”
According to research, 34,275 children were under state legal custody last year and from 1999 to 2003, the number of children in foster care rose 40 percent.
DFPS projects that the number of children in foster care will increase nearly 30 percent by 2009.
The result of a ban would reduce the pool of qualified foster homes which is already insufficient to meet the need, the Equality rep wrote.
“A ban would limit resources available to family members under kinship care and could disqualify them from taking care of family members, placing even more children into an overburdened system,” she writes. “A ban or ‘preference’ system would cost Texas an estimated $8-$15 million due to increase cost of eligibility screening, costs of removing children from safe, stable, and otherwise qualified homes, increased administrative and group home costs, and costs of related litigation.”
According to Equality literature, every dollar spent enforcing a ban is a dollar that could have been spent on direct care for Texas children and their families and professional should make child placement decisions.
Several freshmen state reps were new to the House and were not present in 2005 when the House passed the Talton Amendment to SB6 by a vote of 81 to 58 banning gay and lesbian foster parents. Ten state reps voted for the amendment.
For more information, go to house.state.tx.us.
In other Equality Texas news, staff is urging citizens to support HB 247 for non-discrimination in insurance regarding sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. The American Bar Association’s policy states “State laws should prohibit insurance discrimination based on sexual orientation.”
According to an email sent out by Equality, “Transgender people throughout the state are excluded from the health insurance industry and/or denied coverage for medically necessary procedures at alarming rates.”
By Terri Rimmer
The Texas House of Representatives began floor debate on HB 1, the General Appropriations Bill on March 29th that could affect whether gay people can be foster parents.
The bill is intended to be the state’s budget and not a vehicle for the writing of policy.
Equality Texas was urging all citizens to contact their state representatives two weeks ago and ask him/her to vote against any amendment which seeks to restrict or ban qualified gay and lesbian parents from serving as foster parents.
“Banning or restricting qualified families will hurt Texas children,” an Equality rep said. “17,536 children were removed from homes by the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) after investigation in 2006.”
According to research, 34,275 children were under state legal custody last year and from 1999 to 2003, the number of children in foster care rose 40 percent.
DFPS projects that the number of children in foster care will increase nearly 30 percent by 2009.
The result of a ban would reduce the pool of qualified foster homes which is already insufficient to meet the need, the Equality rep wrote.
“A ban would limit resources available to family members under kinship care and could disqualify them from taking care of family members, placing even more children into an overburdened system,” she writes. “A ban or ‘preference’ system would cost Texas an estimated $8-$15 million due to increase cost of eligibility screening, costs of removing children from safe, stable, and otherwise qualified homes, increased administrative and group home costs, and costs of related litigation.”
According to Equality literature, every dollar spent enforcing a ban is a dollar that could have been spent on direct care for Texas children and their families and professional should make child placement decisions.
Several freshmen state reps were new to the House and were not present in 2005 when the House passed the Talton Amendment to SB6 by a vote of 81 to 58 banning gay and lesbian foster parents. Ten state reps voted for the amendment.
For more information, go to house.state.tx.us.
In other Equality Texas news, staff is urging citizens to support HB 247 for non-discrimination in insurance regarding sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. The American Bar Association’s policy states “State laws should prohibit insurance discrimination based on sexual orientation.”
According to an email sent out by Equality, “Transgender people throughout the state are excluded from the health insurance industry and/or denied coverage for medically necessary procedures at alarming rates.”
Sunday, April 08, 2007
Friday, April 06, 2007
Subject: Comedy Central's Joke of the Day Newsletter
Date: 4 Apr 2007 05:10:53 -0700
Divorced and Drunk
A man and his wife are dining at a table in a plush restaurant, and the husband keeps staring at an old drunken lady swigging her gin as she sits alone at a nearby table, until the wife asks,
"Do you know her?"
"Yes," sighs the husband, "She's my ex-wife. She took to drinking right after we divorced seven years ago, and I hear she hasn't been sober since."
"My God!" says the wife, "Who would think a person could go on celebrating that long?"
Comedy Central Daily Joke, 1775 Broadway, NY, NY 10019
Copyright © 1995 - 2006 Comedy Central. All rights reserved.
Date: 4 Apr 2007 05:10:53 -0700
Divorced and Drunk
A man and his wife are dining at a table in a plush restaurant, and the husband keeps staring at an old drunken lady swigging her gin as she sits alone at a nearby table, until the wife asks,
"Do you know her?"
"Yes," sighs the husband, "She's my ex-wife. She took to drinking right after we divorced seven years ago, and I hear she hasn't been sober since."
"My God!" says the wife, "Who would think a person could go on celebrating that long?"
Comedy Central Daily Joke, 1775 Broadway, NY, NY 10019
Copyright © 1995 - 2006 Comedy Central. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Subject: Comedy Central's Joke of the Day Newsletter
Date: 10 Mar 2007 05:08:49 -0800
Blonde and Picture
Q: Why did the blonde keep a picture of herself in her room?
A: So she could use it as a mirror.
Comedy Central Daily Joke, 1775 Broadway, NY, NY 10019
Copyright © 1995 - 2006 Comedy Central. All rights reserved.
Date: 10 Mar 2007 05:08:49 -0800
Blonde and Picture
Q: Why did the blonde keep a picture of herself in her room?
A: So she could use it as a mirror.
Comedy Central Daily Joke, 1775 Broadway, NY, NY 10019
Copyright © 1995 - 2006 Comedy Central. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Kids have their own take on black history month
The~re treated to arts and crafts, performances and such at MOSH.
By ADAM AASEN
The Times-Union
The Museum of Science and History celebrated black history on Saturday by sharing it with children durng a daylong event to help them absorb cultural history
“Its imperative to teach kids diversity and ~uiturai understanding especiallY at ~ucn a young age~’ said Jacquelvn Reese, education program coordinator at the downtown lacksonville museum.
There were African-insoired arts and
crafts, choir performances, and an exhibit on the Tuskegee Airmen to teach black history to the children.
Volunteer Natalia Gallimore read stories based on African fables to young children.
As she read The Leopard~s Drum, a story filled with jungle animals, the kids kept interrupting her, asking questions about the story.
Gallimore was glad they were listening. ‘It’s really good for these kids to hear all these different views at this age, before they form their own opinions” she said.
Cindy Persico, leader of Girl Scout Troop 296 from Carver Community Center, said she took her girls to the museum to expand
MUSEUM continues on B-4
Museum:
8-year-old
liked tale of
Rosa Parks
Continued from B-i
on what they’ve been learning all month. She said she covered people such as civil rights leader Rosa Parks; Mae Jemison, who ~as the firer black woman to go into space; and talk show host Oprah Winfrey to give the girls good role models.
“For them to see strong, powerful women that look like them,
it’s important,” she said.
Darnetta Johnson, an 8-year-old member of Troop 296, said she liked hearing about Rosa Parks.
“She didn’t think the rules
should be that way, so she didn’t
want to get up,” Johnson said.
Other children said they think it’s important to celebrate Black History Month because they feel they owe a lot to black historical figures.
“I think we need to remember people like Martin Luther King because they died so we could have our freedom today,” said Julia Robinson, 12.
The~re treated to arts and crafts, performances and such at MOSH.
By ADAM AASEN
The Times-Union
The Museum of Science and History celebrated black history on Saturday by sharing it with children durng a daylong event to help them absorb cultural history
“Its imperative to teach kids diversity and ~uiturai understanding especiallY at ~ucn a young age~’ said Jacquelvn Reese, education program coordinator at the downtown lacksonville museum.
There were African-insoired arts and
crafts, choir performances, and an exhibit on the Tuskegee Airmen to teach black history to the children.
Volunteer Natalia Gallimore read stories based on African fables to young children.
As she read The Leopard~s Drum, a story filled with jungle animals, the kids kept interrupting her, asking questions about the story.
Gallimore was glad they were listening. ‘It’s really good for these kids to hear all these different views at this age, before they form their own opinions” she said.
Cindy Persico, leader of Girl Scout Troop 296 from Carver Community Center, said she took her girls to the museum to expand
MUSEUM continues on B-4
Museum:
8-year-old
liked tale of
Rosa Parks
Continued from B-i
on what they’ve been learning all month. She said she covered people such as civil rights leader Rosa Parks; Mae Jemison, who ~as the firer black woman to go into space; and talk show host Oprah Winfrey to give the girls good role models.
“For them to see strong, powerful women that look like them,
it’s important,” she said.
Darnetta Johnson, an 8-year-old member of Troop 296, said she liked hearing about Rosa Parks.
“She didn’t think the rules
should be that way, so she didn’t
want to get up,” Johnson said.
Other children said they think it’s important to celebrate Black History Month because they feel they owe a lot to black historical figures.
“I think we need to remember people like Martin Luther King because they died so we could have our freedom today,” said Julia Robinson, 12.
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Subject: Comedy Central's Joke of the Day Newsletter
Date: 27 Feb 2007 05:08:47 -0800
Blonde in a Boat.
There was a blonde driving down the road one day. She glanced to her right and noticed another blonde sitting in a nearby field, rowing a boat with no water in sight.
The blonde angrily pulled her car over and yelled at the rowing blonde, "What do you think you're doing? It's things like this that give us blondes a bad name. If I could swim, I'd come out there and kick your butt!"
Comedy Central Daily Joke, 1775 Broadway, NY, NY 10019
Copyright © 1995 - 2006 Comedy Central. All rights reserved.
Date: 27 Feb 2007 05:08:47 -0800
Blonde in a Boat.
There was a blonde driving down the road one day. She glanced to her right and noticed another blonde sitting in a nearby field, rowing a boat with no water in sight.
The blonde angrily pulled her car over and yelled at the rowing blonde, "What do you think you're doing? It's things like this that give us blondes a bad name. If I could swim, I'd come out there and kick your butt!"
Comedy Central Daily Joke, 1775 Broadway, NY, NY 10019
Copyright © 1995 - 2006 Comedy Central. All rights reserved.
Monday, February 19, 2007
Biggest, Baddest Birthday Spots in Fort Worth
Unique, no-fuss, super finds sure to impress your friends
By Angie Chang
One of the most rewarding, challenging and, let’s be honest, competitive aspects of parenting a child in Fort Worth is making sure you throw a bigger- (and most definitely better) than-the-last-kid’s birthday party for your precious prodigy. Another requisite? That it be somewhere other than your backyard. Who’s got time to clean up another mess?
We combed Tarrant County in search of unusual locales that strike a rare balance between cooler-than-thou and super easy (cheap not necessarily a factor – well, you gotta give somewhere). This list is by no means comprehensive, but it should jump start your planning engine. If you’ve got a find we should know about, e-mail (editorial@fortworthchild.com) it to us and we’ll add it to this list.
Meanwhile, send us an invite.
Note: Please call ahead for the latest information. Originally published in September 2003.
Hot Spot: The Clubhouse for “Kids” Only, Bedford
Cool Factor: Bragging rights to scaling an indoor mountain on your birthday – what kid wouldn’t want that?
High Jinks: Kids won’t know what to do first when they scramble into this sprawling playroom. The goods: a tree house, craft barn, music, computers, karaoke soundstage, a rocket ship, rock climbing, Grandma’s attic and the list rolls on. Best of all? Kids have unlimited time to explore.
Age Range: 1 to 12 years old
Sustenance: One-topping large pizzas go for $10.95 and ice cream is $1.25 per serving. No outside food or drink allowed.
Cake: And juice, too. A party attendant will cut and serve the provided cake (with complementary paper products). The attendant can also write down gifts to expedite the thank-you card process. No outside cake allowed.
Extras: Invitations can be purchased for 25 cents each and goody bags are $3.95 each. Parents can bring their own decorations for the private party room. The birthday child receives a free Clubhouse T-shirt and two free return passes.
Clean Up: Don’t even worry about it.
Price Ranges: The basic party package for 10 children is $125 (each additional child $8.50). It includes unlimited time in the Clubhouse and 45 minutes in private party room. Theme parties can be arranged at an additional cost.
Book It: Reserve a spot two to four weeks in advance for a better chance of getting your date. A $35 deposit is required and will go toward the final balance. Parties are offered during business hours 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.
Contact: 2200 Airport Freeway, 817/868-1800, www.clubhouseforkids.com.
Hot Spot: Legends of the Game Museum, Arlington
Cool Factor: Hit this birthday out of the park with an exclusive sneak peek into the Ballpark in Arlington.
High Jinks: Kids can inspect places in the ballpark few fans have seen before, including the press box, batting cages and the Texas Rangers’ dugout. They’ll also receive a private viewing of baseball bloopers and get some time to play interactive computer games in the Learning Center.
Age Range: 4 to 11 years old
Sustenance: It may be the ballpark, but that doesn’t mean you’re getting hotdogs. Bring your own with all the fixings (just leave the grill at home).
Cake: It would be cool to have a cake in the shape of a baseball, but unfortunately you will have to make that happen.
Extras: Invitations and goody bags included. Birthday child receives a birthday gift. A party attendant/tour guide stays with the party to help with cake serving and any other needs.
Clean Up: Parents need to pick up after the kiddos.
Price Ranges: Fifteen kids and 10 adults all get in for $200. Additional guests are $10 per child and $3 per adult. Party rooms are booked for two-hour slots.
Book It: Reserve your spot a month in advance if you can. Party times are 10 a.m. to noon, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., and 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday; noon to 2 p.m. and 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday. A $50 deposit is required at booking and goes toward your final balance.
Contact: 1000 Ballpark Way, Suite 400, 817/273-5099.
Hot Spot: Sissy & Bubba’s, Colleyville
Cool Factor: Future heartbreakers of America doll up at a “too-cool-for-boys” party.
High Jinks: Girls receive professional updos and dabble in makeup and nail polish. Just gently remind them that more isn’t always better with blush.
Age Range: 5 to 12 years old
Sustenance: Feel free to bring snacks and drinks.
Cake: The $22.50 per child package includes cake, plates and utensils. Bring your own if you opt for the $17.50 per child package.
Extras: The $22.50 package also comes with balloons, decorations and party favor bags.
Clean Up: You and your newly minted princesses won’t have to lift a finger.
Price Ranges: $17.50 gets each child the updo, the makeup and nail polish, as well as the entire store for two hours. Pony up $22.50 per princess and get the basic package plus all the aforementioned goodies. There’s a minimum of 10 girls per party.
Book It: Call as soon as you can to set up a time. Parties are scheduled Monday through Saturday after 5 p.m. Balance is due on the day of the party.
Contact: 5604 Colleyville Blvd., Suite G, 817/577-5200.
Hot Spot: Southlake Scuba, Southlake
Cool Factor: The party’s underwater. ’Nuff said.
High Jinks: A “Bubblemakers” party introduces children to the thrill of breathing underwater. Kids get a 60-minute course in the classroom and swimming pool with full scuba gear. Parties are usually at Southlake Aquatic Center, but they can bring the party to your pool.
Age Range: 8 years and older
Sustenance: The staff will take care of snacks and drinks for an additional charge.
Cake: Bring your own or say the word and they’ll supply the cake, candles and plates. But it’ll cost you.
Extras: Invitations, party balloons, “Bubblemakers” tattoo, “Bubblemakers” log book and “Bubblemakers” water squirt toy are all included for each child.
Clean Up: The staff will clean up. It’s almost like it’s your birthday too.
Price Ranges: Each two-hour party session requires a maximum of six kids at $40 each. This includes use of full scuba equipment, pool rental and an authentic “Bubblemakers” certification card and wall certificate.
Book It: The staff would prefer notice a month in advance. A deposit of half the balance is required when making your reservation. Parents must read and sign permission forms prior to party time.
Contact: 1101 E. Northwest Parkway, Suite 114, 817/481-6066, www.southlakescuba.com.
Hot Spot: Tarantula Train
Cool Factor: Get the party in motion as you chug along in vintage 1920s coaches powered by “Puffy,” the 1896 Steam Engine #2248.
High Jinks: The birthday entourage can hang out in a roped off area in the coach, but they can’t ride incognito: An announcement will let the entire train know there’s someone special on board. The birthday child gets to blow the whistle before the train takes off. Choose from one of two round trips: The nonstop Trinity River Run or Grapevine to Stockyards and back.
Age Range: 3 to 12 years old
Sustenance: A hot dog pack with chips and a drink is provided for each child and refreshments can be purchased on the train.
Cake: No cake is allowed on the train for preservation reasons.
Extras: An attendant is available to help with the party. Parents are welcome to bring their own decorations.
Clean Up: The attendant will pick up after your group.
Price Ranges: Each child climbs aboard for $14.50 with a minimum of six children per party. Adults are $15 for Grapevine trip and $9 for Trinity.
Book It: Call to reserve your spot at least one week in advance. Parties are available every day the train is in operation. The Grapevine to Stockyards route is three hours round trip and departs from Grapevine at 10 a.m.; the returning trip is at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. On Sunday, the train departs Grapevine at 1 p.m. and leaves the Stockyards at 5 p.m. The Trinity River Run clocks in at an hour roundtrip and departs at 1 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. On Sundays, the train leaves at 3:30 p.m. from the Stockyards.
Contact: The Cotton Belt Depot is at 707 S. Main St. in Grapevine and Stockyards Station is at 140 E. Exchange Ave., 817/410-3123, www.gvrr.com.
Hot Spot: Texas CowGirl Ranch, Westlake
Cool Factor: Kids will feel like the Real McCoy on this seven-acre ranch that serves up a heap of Western flair.
High Jinks: Barb “Wire” provides a crash course in the history and clothing of cowboys to set the mood for ranch-style fun. Kids can saddle up for rides on a pony or miniature horse and capture the moment with a memory photo. Explore the other parts of the ranch with games and ranch duties like hay-bale calf roping, a carrot roundup and even a horse-reining lesson. The party room is in a Texas-style hay barn that’s thumping with toe-tapping country western music.
Age Range: 3 to 8 years old
Sustenance: Wrangle in your own snacks and sodas.
Cake: You’ll need to flip for the cake, but lemonade, paper products and utensils are provided.
Extras: Invitations are available and you can pick from two different designs. Party-goers get a cowboy or cowgirl hat and a bandanna as party favors. Attendants make sure the party runs without a hitch. All of this is included in the package price.
Clean Up: Ranch hands are highly adept at these chores.
Price Ranges: A two-hour party at the ranch costs $450 for 10 kids and siblings of the birthday child get in for free. Each additional child is $40.
Book It: Party slots fill up faster than you can rope a calf, so make your reservation as soon as you pick a date. The time can be arranged to fit your schedule. A deposit of $100 is required at reservation and parents need to sign a release form on the back of the invitation.
Contact: 1559 Dove Road, 817/488-1300, www.texascowgirlranch.com.
Hot Spot: Buckaroo’s Soda Shoppe, Fort Worth
Cool Factor: Hi, ho Silver! Young cowgirls and cowboys lasso in horseback riding, clowns and cowboys at this bustling parlor smack dab in the middle of the Stockyards National Historic District.
High Jinks: Parents and cowpokes can pick from several packages to match birthday wishes: Game room where kids compete for prizes; entertainment by clowns, characters or magicians; unlimited runs through the Cowtown Cattle Pen Maze; horseback rides in Stockyards Station; and roping tricks by a cowboy pro.
Age Range: 1 to 12 years old
Sustenance: Each child receives a “Billy The Kidd” meal with choice of burger, hotdog, corny dog or grilled cheese, as well as fries, drink and a special prize. No outside food allowed.
Cake: Buckaroo’s provides a decorated vanilla cake for all parties. However, parents are allowed to bring their own cake.
Extras: Invitations are available for parents who want them. At the party, each child receives a free ice-cream cone, a ticket for the Cowtown Coliseum Rodeo and balloons. Every package includes one hour of reserved space in the Soda Shoppe, photo opportunities in the “jail” and use of the Cowboy Bucking Barrel. A gift table is included in the birthday area.
Clean Up: They’re on it.
Price Ranges: $175 to $225 based on a package for 10 kids. Each additional child is $10.25. Parents can mix and match packages for an additional cost.
Book It: Reserve your spot four weeks in advance (call for last-minute slots no later than two weeks prior). A $50 nonrefundable deposit is required at reservation and balance is due on the day of the party. Parties can be scheduled during business hours. Open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday.
Contact: 140 E. Exchange Ave., 817/624-6631, www.risckys.com.
Hot Spot: Fort Worth Zoo, Fort Worth
Cool Factor: Hang out with the real and original party animals.
High Jinks: View a Wild Wonders live animal presentation and receive an all-day admission pass for the entire gaggle of animal lovers. Package includes two-hour use of the Education Center room where kids can play wildlife games.
Age Range: 4 to 12 years old
Sustenance: Keeping your little ones fed will be your duty.
Cake: You gotta bring that too.
Extras: A zoo souvenir pencil topped by a zoo animal stamp for every child and a Fort Worth Zoo carryall bag for the birthday child. Parents are welcome to bring their own decorations, balloons and party favors. Balloons are not allowed outside the room.
Clean Up: Yep, your responsibility as well.
Price Ranges: $180 members and $200 nonmembers. Tell your guests to bring $5 for parking. Party maximum is 30 people (children and adults).
Book It: Call three weeks before the party date. Expect to book six weeks in advance during the busy spring season. Party times are year round at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturdays and 10 a.m. on select Sundays.
Contact: 1989 Colonial Parkway, 817/759-7200, www.fortworthzoo.org.
Hot Spot: Fort Worth Texas Ice, Fort Worth
Cool Factor: For an exclusive, invitation-only vibe, you can rent out the entire rink for an hour-long party that’s literally too cool.
High Jinks: Skating — don’t forget your socks!
Age Range: 5 years and older
Sustenance: The most expensive package includes two large cheese pizzas and pitchers of soft drinks for 10 (additional pizzas $12, extra pitchers $3). No outside food or drink allowed.
Cake: Bring your own and don’t forget the candles. Utensils and plates are provided. An attendant is available to help cut and serve.
Extras: A fully decorated party room complete with confetti, balloons and invitations. A table is set up to hold cake and gifts.
Clean Up: Do these attendants do everything? It sure seems like it.
Price Ranges: $140-$165 for up to 10 children and $14-$16.50 for each additional child. Package includes rink admission, skate rental and use of the party room for an hour. Rent out the entire rink and invite as many people as you want for $275 an hour.
Book It: Reserve a spot anywhere within three days to a week. Half of the balance is due as a deposit with reservation. Call ahead for available times.
Contact: 3600 Hwy 377 South, 817/560-9700, www.txice.com.
Hot Spot: Mountasia, North Richland Hills
Cool Factor: Good old-fashioned batting cages, video games, golf and go-karts never go out of style or adrenaline.
High Jinks: Can you say FORE? Get ready for 18 holes of miniature golf, video games, laser tag, and bumper boats and cars.
Age Range: 5 years and older
Sustenance: Give the staff 24 hours notice and they can prepare pizza and hotdogs at an additional cost from the snack bar. Ice cream and soda are included in the party package. No outside food or drinks allowed.
Cake: You’re on your own here.
Extras: A host to assist at the party, party hats, goody bags, balloons, invitations and a gift for the birthday kid all included.
Clean Up: Done for you by the staff.
Price Ranges: A party of eight ranges from $74.95 ($8.95 each additional child) for the golf and game birthday adventure to $92 ($9.95 each additional child) for laser tag. Additional activities are available at discounted rates. The private party room is yours for one hour.
Book It: Make reservations at least a week in advance. Parties are offered during regular business hours: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday. A $30 plus tax deposit is required on all parties at least five days before the event date.
Contact: 8851 Grapevine Highway, 817/788-0990, www.americafunplex.com.
Hot Spot: Kid Connection, Fort Worth
Cool Factor: An indoor Air Trak (inflatable mat) lets kids bounce to their hearts’ content.
High Jinks: Kids can go crazy shooting down a zip line from a tree house or hanging out in the playrooms. Choose from four themes to accent the celebration: princess, cheerleader, sports or Western.
Age Range: 18 months to 9 years old
Sustenance: No food here. Bring your own snacks and soda.
Cake: The staff can provide a homemade cake made to your specs if you don’t want to bring your own. A 1/4 sheet is $20 and a 1/2 sheet is $35.
Extras: Package includes 20 invitations, balloons for each child, candles, paper goods, juice and a keepsake picture of the birthday child. Party attendants can help with serving.
Clean Up: Staff takes care of it.
Price Ranges: Currently enrolled Kid Connection members pay $135, or $145 for nonmembers. Parties include up to 15 guests (each additional child $5). Favors can be added for $5 each.
Book It: Make your reservation a month in advance. Parties are generally offered on the weekends: 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Friday; 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Saturday; and 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Sunday. Other times can be scheduled. A $50 nonrefundable deposit is required with reservation and goes toward your final balance.
Contact: 6491 Southwest Blvd., 817/732-5432.
Unique, no-fuss, super finds sure to impress your friends
By Angie Chang
One of the most rewarding, challenging and, let’s be honest, competitive aspects of parenting a child in Fort Worth is making sure you throw a bigger- (and most definitely better) than-the-last-kid’s birthday party for your precious prodigy. Another requisite? That it be somewhere other than your backyard. Who’s got time to clean up another mess?
We combed Tarrant County in search of unusual locales that strike a rare balance between cooler-than-thou and super easy (cheap not necessarily a factor – well, you gotta give somewhere). This list is by no means comprehensive, but it should jump start your planning engine. If you’ve got a find we should know about, e-mail (editorial@fortworthchild.com) it to us and we’ll add it to this list.
Meanwhile, send us an invite.
Note: Please call ahead for the latest information. Originally published in September 2003.
Hot Spot: The Clubhouse for “Kids” Only, Bedford
Cool Factor: Bragging rights to scaling an indoor mountain on your birthday – what kid wouldn’t want that?
High Jinks: Kids won’t know what to do first when they scramble into this sprawling playroom. The goods: a tree house, craft barn, music, computers, karaoke soundstage, a rocket ship, rock climbing, Grandma’s attic and the list rolls on. Best of all? Kids have unlimited time to explore.
Age Range: 1 to 12 years old
Sustenance: One-topping large pizzas go for $10.95 and ice cream is $1.25 per serving. No outside food or drink allowed.
Cake: And juice, too. A party attendant will cut and serve the provided cake (with complementary paper products). The attendant can also write down gifts to expedite the thank-you card process. No outside cake allowed.
Extras: Invitations can be purchased for 25 cents each and goody bags are $3.95 each. Parents can bring their own decorations for the private party room. The birthday child receives a free Clubhouse T-shirt and two free return passes.
Clean Up: Don’t even worry about it.
Price Ranges: The basic party package for 10 children is $125 (each additional child $8.50). It includes unlimited time in the Clubhouse and 45 minutes in private party room. Theme parties can be arranged at an additional cost.
Book It: Reserve a spot two to four weeks in advance for a better chance of getting your date. A $35 deposit is required and will go toward the final balance. Parties are offered during business hours 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.
Contact: 2200 Airport Freeway, 817/868-1800, www.clubhouseforkids.com.
Hot Spot: Legends of the Game Museum, Arlington
Cool Factor: Hit this birthday out of the park with an exclusive sneak peek into the Ballpark in Arlington.
High Jinks: Kids can inspect places in the ballpark few fans have seen before, including the press box, batting cages and the Texas Rangers’ dugout. They’ll also receive a private viewing of baseball bloopers and get some time to play interactive computer games in the Learning Center.
Age Range: 4 to 11 years old
Sustenance: It may be the ballpark, but that doesn’t mean you’re getting hotdogs. Bring your own with all the fixings (just leave the grill at home).
Cake: It would be cool to have a cake in the shape of a baseball, but unfortunately you will have to make that happen.
Extras: Invitations and goody bags included. Birthday child receives a birthday gift. A party attendant/tour guide stays with the party to help with cake serving and any other needs.
Clean Up: Parents need to pick up after the kiddos.
Price Ranges: Fifteen kids and 10 adults all get in for $200. Additional guests are $10 per child and $3 per adult. Party rooms are booked for two-hour slots.
Book It: Reserve your spot a month in advance if you can. Party times are 10 a.m. to noon, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., and 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday; noon to 2 p.m. and 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday. A $50 deposit is required at booking and goes toward your final balance.
Contact: 1000 Ballpark Way, Suite 400, 817/273-5099.
Hot Spot: Sissy & Bubba’s, Colleyville
Cool Factor: Future heartbreakers of America doll up at a “too-cool-for-boys” party.
High Jinks: Girls receive professional updos and dabble in makeup and nail polish. Just gently remind them that more isn’t always better with blush.
Age Range: 5 to 12 years old
Sustenance: Feel free to bring snacks and drinks.
Cake: The $22.50 per child package includes cake, plates and utensils. Bring your own if you opt for the $17.50 per child package.
Extras: The $22.50 package also comes with balloons, decorations and party favor bags.
Clean Up: You and your newly minted princesses won’t have to lift a finger.
Price Ranges: $17.50 gets each child the updo, the makeup and nail polish, as well as the entire store for two hours. Pony up $22.50 per princess and get the basic package plus all the aforementioned goodies. There’s a minimum of 10 girls per party.
Book It: Call as soon as you can to set up a time. Parties are scheduled Monday through Saturday after 5 p.m. Balance is due on the day of the party.
Contact: 5604 Colleyville Blvd., Suite G, 817/577-5200.
Hot Spot: Southlake Scuba, Southlake
Cool Factor: The party’s underwater. ’Nuff said.
High Jinks: A “Bubblemakers” party introduces children to the thrill of breathing underwater. Kids get a 60-minute course in the classroom and swimming pool with full scuba gear. Parties are usually at Southlake Aquatic Center, but they can bring the party to your pool.
Age Range: 8 years and older
Sustenance: The staff will take care of snacks and drinks for an additional charge.
Cake: Bring your own or say the word and they’ll supply the cake, candles and plates. But it’ll cost you.
Extras: Invitations, party balloons, “Bubblemakers” tattoo, “Bubblemakers” log book and “Bubblemakers” water squirt toy are all included for each child.
Clean Up: The staff will clean up. It’s almost like it’s your birthday too.
Price Ranges: Each two-hour party session requires a maximum of six kids at $40 each. This includes use of full scuba equipment, pool rental and an authentic “Bubblemakers” certification card and wall certificate.
Book It: The staff would prefer notice a month in advance. A deposit of half the balance is required when making your reservation. Parents must read and sign permission forms prior to party time.
Contact: 1101 E. Northwest Parkway, Suite 114, 817/481-6066, www.southlakescuba.com.
Hot Spot: Tarantula Train
Cool Factor: Get the party in motion as you chug along in vintage 1920s coaches powered by “Puffy,” the 1896 Steam Engine #2248.
High Jinks: The birthday entourage can hang out in a roped off area in the coach, but they can’t ride incognito: An announcement will let the entire train know there’s someone special on board. The birthday child gets to blow the whistle before the train takes off. Choose from one of two round trips: The nonstop Trinity River Run or Grapevine to Stockyards and back.
Age Range: 3 to 12 years old
Sustenance: A hot dog pack with chips and a drink is provided for each child and refreshments can be purchased on the train.
Cake: No cake is allowed on the train for preservation reasons.
Extras: An attendant is available to help with the party. Parents are welcome to bring their own decorations.
Clean Up: The attendant will pick up after your group.
Price Ranges: Each child climbs aboard for $14.50 with a minimum of six children per party. Adults are $15 for Grapevine trip and $9 for Trinity.
Book It: Call to reserve your spot at least one week in advance. Parties are available every day the train is in operation. The Grapevine to Stockyards route is three hours round trip and departs from Grapevine at 10 a.m.; the returning trip is at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. On Sunday, the train departs Grapevine at 1 p.m. and leaves the Stockyards at 5 p.m. The Trinity River Run clocks in at an hour roundtrip and departs at 1 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. On Sundays, the train leaves at 3:30 p.m. from the Stockyards.
Contact: The Cotton Belt Depot is at 707 S. Main St. in Grapevine and Stockyards Station is at 140 E. Exchange Ave., 817/410-3123, www.gvrr.com.
Hot Spot: Texas CowGirl Ranch, Westlake
Cool Factor: Kids will feel like the Real McCoy on this seven-acre ranch that serves up a heap of Western flair.
High Jinks: Barb “Wire” provides a crash course in the history and clothing of cowboys to set the mood for ranch-style fun. Kids can saddle up for rides on a pony or miniature horse and capture the moment with a memory photo. Explore the other parts of the ranch with games and ranch duties like hay-bale calf roping, a carrot roundup and even a horse-reining lesson. The party room is in a Texas-style hay barn that’s thumping with toe-tapping country western music.
Age Range: 3 to 8 years old
Sustenance: Wrangle in your own snacks and sodas.
Cake: You’ll need to flip for the cake, but lemonade, paper products and utensils are provided.
Extras: Invitations are available and you can pick from two different designs. Party-goers get a cowboy or cowgirl hat and a bandanna as party favors. Attendants make sure the party runs without a hitch. All of this is included in the package price.
Clean Up: Ranch hands are highly adept at these chores.
Price Ranges: A two-hour party at the ranch costs $450 for 10 kids and siblings of the birthday child get in for free. Each additional child is $40.
Book It: Party slots fill up faster than you can rope a calf, so make your reservation as soon as you pick a date. The time can be arranged to fit your schedule. A deposit of $100 is required at reservation and parents need to sign a release form on the back of the invitation.
Contact: 1559 Dove Road, 817/488-1300, www.texascowgirlranch.com.
Hot Spot: Buckaroo’s Soda Shoppe, Fort Worth
Cool Factor: Hi, ho Silver! Young cowgirls and cowboys lasso in horseback riding, clowns and cowboys at this bustling parlor smack dab in the middle of the Stockyards National Historic District.
High Jinks: Parents and cowpokes can pick from several packages to match birthday wishes: Game room where kids compete for prizes; entertainment by clowns, characters or magicians; unlimited runs through the Cowtown Cattle Pen Maze; horseback rides in Stockyards Station; and roping tricks by a cowboy pro.
Age Range: 1 to 12 years old
Sustenance: Each child receives a “Billy The Kidd” meal with choice of burger, hotdog, corny dog or grilled cheese, as well as fries, drink and a special prize. No outside food allowed.
Cake: Buckaroo’s provides a decorated vanilla cake for all parties. However, parents are allowed to bring their own cake.
Extras: Invitations are available for parents who want them. At the party, each child receives a free ice-cream cone, a ticket for the Cowtown Coliseum Rodeo and balloons. Every package includes one hour of reserved space in the Soda Shoppe, photo opportunities in the “jail” and use of the Cowboy Bucking Barrel. A gift table is included in the birthday area.
Clean Up: They’re on it.
Price Ranges: $175 to $225 based on a package for 10 kids. Each additional child is $10.25. Parents can mix and match packages for an additional cost.
Book It: Reserve your spot four weeks in advance (call for last-minute slots no later than two weeks prior). A $50 nonrefundable deposit is required at reservation and balance is due on the day of the party. Parties can be scheduled during business hours. Open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday.
Contact: 140 E. Exchange Ave., 817/624-6631, www.risckys.com.
Hot Spot: Fort Worth Zoo, Fort Worth
Cool Factor: Hang out with the real and original party animals.
High Jinks: View a Wild Wonders live animal presentation and receive an all-day admission pass for the entire gaggle of animal lovers. Package includes two-hour use of the Education Center room where kids can play wildlife games.
Age Range: 4 to 12 years old
Sustenance: Keeping your little ones fed will be your duty.
Cake: You gotta bring that too.
Extras: A zoo souvenir pencil topped by a zoo animal stamp for every child and a Fort Worth Zoo carryall bag for the birthday child. Parents are welcome to bring their own decorations, balloons and party favors. Balloons are not allowed outside the room.
Clean Up: Yep, your responsibility as well.
Price Ranges: $180 members and $200 nonmembers. Tell your guests to bring $5 for parking. Party maximum is 30 people (children and adults).
Book It: Call three weeks before the party date. Expect to book six weeks in advance during the busy spring season. Party times are year round at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturdays and 10 a.m. on select Sundays.
Contact: 1989 Colonial Parkway, 817/759-7200, www.fortworthzoo.org.
Hot Spot: Fort Worth Texas Ice, Fort Worth
Cool Factor: For an exclusive, invitation-only vibe, you can rent out the entire rink for an hour-long party that’s literally too cool.
High Jinks: Skating — don’t forget your socks!
Age Range: 5 years and older
Sustenance: The most expensive package includes two large cheese pizzas and pitchers of soft drinks for 10 (additional pizzas $12, extra pitchers $3). No outside food or drink allowed.
Cake: Bring your own and don’t forget the candles. Utensils and plates are provided. An attendant is available to help cut and serve.
Extras: A fully decorated party room complete with confetti, balloons and invitations. A table is set up to hold cake and gifts.
Clean Up: Do these attendants do everything? It sure seems like it.
Price Ranges: $140-$165 for up to 10 children and $14-$16.50 for each additional child. Package includes rink admission, skate rental and use of the party room for an hour. Rent out the entire rink and invite as many people as you want for $275 an hour.
Book It: Reserve a spot anywhere within three days to a week. Half of the balance is due as a deposit with reservation. Call ahead for available times.
Contact: 3600 Hwy 377 South, 817/560-9700, www.txice.com.
Hot Spot: Mountasia, North Richland Hills
Cool Factor: Good old-fashioned batting cages, video games, golf and go-karts never go out of style or adrenaline.
High Jinks: Can you say FORE? Get ready for 18 holes of miniature golf, video games, laser tag, and bumper boats and cars.
Age Range: 5 years and older
Sustenance: Give the staff 24 hours notice and they can prepare pizza and hotdogs at an additional cost from the snack bar. Ice cream and soda are included in the party package. No outside food or drinks allowed.
Cake: You’re on your own here.
Extras: A host to assist at the party, party hats, goody bags, balloons, invitations and a gift for the birthday kid all included.
Clean Up: Done for you by the staff.
Price Ranges: A party of eight ranges from $74.95 ($8.95 each additional child) for the golf and game birthday adventure to $92 ($9.95 each additional child) for laser tag. Additional activities are available at discounted rates. The private party room is yours for one hour.
Book It: Make reservations at least a week in advance. Parties are offered during regular business hours: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday. A $30 plus tax deposit is required on all parties at least five days before the event date.
Contact: 8851 Grapevine Highway, 817/788-0990, www.americafunplex.com.
Hot Spot: Kid Connection, Fort Worth
Cool Factor: An indoor Air Trak (inflatable mat) lets kids bounce to their hearts’ content.
High Jinks: Kids can go crazy shooting down a zip line from a tree house or hanging out in the playrooms. Choose from four themes to accent the celebration: princess, cheerleader, sports or Western.
Age Range: 18 months to 9 years old
Sustenance: No food here. Bring your own snacks and soda.
Cake: The staff can provide a homemade cake made to your specs if you don’t want to bring your own. A 1/4 sheet is $20 and a 1/2 sheet is $35.
Extras: Package includes 20 invitations, balloons for each child, candles, paper goods, juice and a keepsake picture of the birthday child. Party attendants can help with serving.
Clean Up: Staff takes care of it.
Price Ranges: Currently enrolled Kid Connection members pay $135, or $145 for nonmembers. Parties include up to 15 guests (each additional child $5). Favors can be added for $5 each.
Book It: Make your reservation a month in advance. Parties are generally offered on the weekends: 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Friday; 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Saturday; and 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Sunday. Other times can be scheduled. A $50 nonrefundable deposit is required with reservation and goes toward your final balance.
Contact: 6491 Southwest Blvd., 817/732-5432.
Sunday, February 18, 2007
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