Countdown to 2012 on the hour every hour between 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. with hats, noisemakers, Ronald McDonald, Nate the Great, fun games, and lots more

If you are new or familiar with origami, then you'll want to spend some time with Amy. You'll have the chance to choose from several projects that require only your hands and patience. All materials (special origami paper) will be supplied. Take the time and get to know the fun art of Japanese paper folding.

Manatee Village Historical Park, in Bradenton, Florida, invites the public to visit the Park Saturday, October 8 for a special cultured event – BEE Culture that is. Did you know that raw honey is both antiviral and antibacterial? Did you know that honey can help you sleep? There are many benefits in using raw honey and you get the added bonus of it being local. You can find out many more facts about the benefits of using honey at: www.fisherhoneybees.com.

Miami Traditions Demonstration 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Governor Frank O’Bannon Great Hall See Indiana through the eyes of the Miami Tribe. Join Dani Tippman, member of the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma, as she shares Miami traditions on food, farming, water and life that have been handed down to her from relatives. You will be amazed at the resources we simply take for granted or don’t know about that are right under our noses. Walk away with a new perspective on how we look at the natural world. Included with Museum admission.

At the Smoky Hill Museum we’ve made our list, but we’re not checking it twice, because the Holiday Open House is going to be oh so nice. The whole family is invited to this free afternoon of fun. Visit, and take a photo with pioneer Santa at our dugout. Ride in the horse-drawn carriage provided by Country Boys Carriage & Prairie Adventures. Stop for refreshments then try your hand at the festive make and take crafts. There will be music, merriment and more at the Holiday Open House.

The newly published book, 150 Years of Kansas Beef, celebrates the people and institutions that have made the Kansas cattle industry what it is today. Dr. Ashley Null will discuss cowboys and cowtowns from the first chapter, which he authored. Dr. Null, who grew up in Salina, is an internationally respected scholar who has received numerous awards for his work. Dr. Justin Kastner, assistant professor at Kansas State University, was co-editor and project director of the book. Dr. Kastner, along with Ms. Blair Tenhouse, will briefly discuss the project itself.

Kansans traveling outside the state know that sooner or later they’re going to hear “Where’s Dorothy?” or “You’re not in Kansas anymore.” The classic film The Wizard of Oz has influenced popular conceptions of the state. But Kansas history and themes have also been important in other films produced in Hollywood. Dr. Thomas Prasch will discuss what “Kansas” means to American popular culture and how the state and its history plays on the silver screen. Film excerpts will be shown. Prasch is a professor and chairs the Department of History at Washburn University.

Unleash the Terror at the 2011 Smoky Hill Museum Haunted House October 28 and 29 from 7-10 pm $1 Admission at the Door - Over 4 times longer than last year! Warning: This is not intended for a young audience and will be physically demanding. FREE FAMILY ALTERNATIVE: There will be a free family friendly, low light tour available in the main gallery of the museum. ADA Notice: For needed accommodations, please contact Joshua Morris between the hours of 8am and 5 pm at (785) 309-5776. Please contact us 3-5 work days prior to date of needed accommodations.

This annual fundraiser is held by the Friends of the Smoky Hill Museum to raise money for support the activities and programs of the Smoky Hill Museum. Last day to order is November 15th. Call 785-309-5776 or visit http://smokyhillmuseum.org/ for more details.

Would you like to know what is going on in the brain of a child that has learning, behavioral or social concerns? The Brain Balance Centers have the latest research and offer community educational lectures. These lectures will take about two hours of your time. The latest research will be presented as well as information about the Brain Balance Program. Come hear how we can help you child! www.BrainBalanceCenters.com