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

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

Special day of rides for home schoolers and their families. Just $10.00 per person, includes all the midway rides. Golf, go carts, games and concessions sold separately.

We are all concerned about our children, especially when we hear some of the horror stories about bullying. What can you do to make schools and communities safer for kids? Join the Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Florida in making a difference during UpStander Day! Families of all ages are invited to attend the free UpStander Day at Lake Eola Park on October 2, 2011 from 3-5 PM. The event will begin as we all stand up and take a leisurely walk around beautiful Lake Eola.

This year’s Homeschool Day offers your family the exciting chance to explore The Mariners’ Museum at a reduced rate while participating in scheduled programs. For only $7.50 per student, your children will enjoy scavenger hunts, crafts, and two of the following interactive classes: Christopher Columbus and the Great Exchange, K-2nd; Age of Exploration, 3rd-5th and 6th-12th; Piracy, K-4th and 5th-12th; Big Winds, Big Waves: the Science of Hurricanes, 5th-12th.