THANK YOU! Ronald McDonald House

Charities of Erie

Non-Profit OrgU.S. Postage

PAIDErie, PA

Permit No. 515

www.eriechildrensmuseum.org Vol. 17 • Issue 1 • Spring 2012

Regular Museum Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10AM-4PM | Sundays 1PM-4PM

NeW exhibit opens in MarchThe Erie Water Works is sponsoring a new exhibit at the Children’s Museum! Visitors can explore and interact with a unique exhibit that includes an aquarium with native species indigenous to Lake Erie. See how Erie Water Works treats and provides clean drinking water to thousands of homes and businesses throughout the region!

Keep an eye on our website and “like” us on Facebook for Grand Opening announcements!

THANK YOU!

The expERIEnce Children’s Museum was awarded a $70,000 grant in November from the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Erie.

The grant will fund construction of the new Ronald McDonald House Charities Creativity Center! The Center will be located throughout the Museum’s entire lower level and will feature exhibits and activities focused on fun, educational and interactive arts experiences.

Renovation will begin soon! Keep an eye on our website and “like” us on Facebook for all the exciting updates and Grand Opening announcements!

THE MUSEUM WILL BE OPeNMONDAYS, APRIL 2ND and APRIL 9TH

THE MUSEUM WILL BE CLOSeDEASTER SUNDAY, APRIL 8TH WEDNESDAY, JULY 4TH

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Children and adults will be treated to a hot breakfast, a visit with the Easter Bunny, special themed activities, and entertainment on the expERIEnce stage.Saturdays: March 24th, 31st / April 7th 9-11am (Museum opens to the public at noon) Sundays: March 25th and April 1st 10am–12pm

Museum Members $12 • Non Members $15Pre-registration required – Call 814.453.3743

Breakfast with Easter Bunny theBreakfast with Easter Bunny the

S P O N S O R e D B Y :

BURSTING with fantastic inflatable

suits of all shapes and sizes, juggling, dancing

and more. And – we have ticket vouchers just

for you! Each voucher is valid for 2 tickets!

• Purchase a membership before the show

and receive two ticket vouchers (good for 4

tickets)

• Sign up for our Green Eggs n’ Ham Brunch

and receive one voucher (good for 2 tickets)!

INFLATABLETHEATER CO.

FRED GARBO’S

F R E D G A R B O ’ S

FRED GARBO’S

A VISUAL SYMPHONY OF WONDER

pac.mercyhurst.edu . (814) 824-3000

Mar y D ’Angelo Per forming Ar ts Center

March 3 • 2 p.m.

The Children’s Museum is sponsoring

SPECIAL EVENTthis

Limited quantity. Offer good

while supplies last!

B O A R D O F D I R E C T O R SPresident

Mark Raimy

Vice-PresidentRyan Brosius, CPA, CVA

TreasurerScott Beilharz

SecretaryBrenda Sandberg

Jay Alberstadt, Esq.Scott Beilharz

John Bongiovanni, CLU, ChFC, CFPJill Crable

Neal Devlin, Esq.Vanessa Herring

Kelly HetzJeffrey Johnson

James W. Martin, CFREJohn Mizner, Esq.

Jennifer MondiRay Schreckengost

Jenny Weigold

M U S E U M S T A F FExecutive Director

Tami L. Netkowicz, CFRE

Museum ManagerMary Kay Williams

Program Assistant and Volunteer Coordinator

Abby Dinges

Gallery ManagerMarlene Martin

Education CoordinatorKatie Louis

EducatorRebecca Boorady

Front Desk ReceptionHannah Williams Alyssa Veshecco

Upcoming & expERIEncesEvents

Pajama Day expeRIence*Saturday, April 28th from 10am-4pmThere’s no need to get out of your pajamas this Saturday! Keep them on and come down to the museum for a Pajama Party! Families will enjoy stories, creating dream drawings and dream catchers. Also, you will learn some fun wake-up movement activities.Ever wonder what happens to us when we are sleeping? You will find out! Cookies and milk will be available for purchase.

A Princess expeRIence*Saturday, May 5th from 10am-4pmPut on your loveliest princess dress and join us at the Children’s Museum for A Princess expERIEnce! We will be celebrating the magic and excitement when little girls become royal princesses at the Museum. This special day will be filled with opportunities to:• Sing and dance • Meet and talk with real “grown-up” princesses• Create artfully designed princess accessories • Pose for special photographs • Get special princess hair and nails• Walk in a Princess Parade through the Museum

Family Game Night!Friday, June 1st from 6:30pm-9pmBring the whole family down to the museum after a long week of work and school. We’ll have snacks, board games, and activities to get you up and moving! Those in attendance will also get the opportunity to create their very own board game to take home!

After Hours expeRIence: Summer Solstice*Wednesday, June 20th from 5pm-8pmJoin us for a night at the Museum as we welcome the first day of summer with music, art activities and more! Hotdogs will be available for purchase.

Bob Sanders DaySaturday, February 25th 10am-4pmThanks to a generous donation made by Erie native Bob Sanders and his Chasing Dreams Foundation, the Children’s Museum will offer FREE admission for a special celebration! For more information:www.bobsandersfoundation.org

Leap Year expeRIence * Sunday, February 26th 12pm–4pm Leap, hop, or jump into the museum for a day of entertaining family activities and discover some interesting facts about leap years. Buzz n’ B’s will be here with some special visitors that “leap” as well!

Green eggs & Ham Brunch Friday, March 2nd 11:30am–1pm Come celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday and the opening of the movie, The Lorax, at the Children’s Museum with a special “Green Eggs and Ham” breakfast, stories and special themed activities!Price includes one parent and one child. $12 Members / $15 Non-Members; $5 each additional childSpace is limited. Reservations required.

5th Annual Multi-Cultural Asia Day* Saturday, March 3rd 11am–3pm Families are welcomed to learn about Asian cultures and are treated to our yearly event with special crafts,

performances and hands-on art activities. Hosted by GE volunteers and the Erie Asian Pacific American Forum (APAF).

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* This event is included in Museum admission and free to members. Passes, coupons and vouchers are not valid on special event days

Classes that provide children the chance to explore the

world around them by getting their hands dirty with science

and art related topics. Each “Explore and expeRIence…” class consists of mini-lessons based on the theme,

hands-on activities, and a story.Pre-Registration is required. Register by calling (814) 453-3743.

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Explore and expERIEnce… winter Classes

Grandparent Stepping Stone Class2-Day ClassSun., June 10th and Sun., June 17th1pm-3pm | Ages 4-10 yearsThis expERIEnce is an opportunity for a grandmother or grandfather to make some memories with one of more of their grandchildren. Those participating will create a unique stepping stone keepsake. All materials will be provided, but feel free to bring a small memento to add a personal touch! $30 for members $35 for non-members

Spring GardeningFri., June 15th 1pm-3pm | Ages 5-10 yearsChildren are invited to create their own planter and explore the world of botany! Come dressed to dig in some dirt and don’t forget to bring your green thumb! $20 for members $25 for non-members

Animal Mask Making Family expERIEnce3-Day Class during Spring Break! Mon., April 2nd, Wed., April 4th, Fri., April 6th 1pm-3pm | Ages 6-10 years Students will work as a group to create large animal masks that will be used in this year’s Zoo Parade on Saturday, May 19th! Children who participate in the class are invited to join us as we march in the parade and then head to the museum for pizza afterwards.

Children in the class will also have the opportunity to make their own personal mask to take home!

The group will meet on Saturday, May 12th from 10am-10:30am to prepare for the upcoming parade!

“Dress to make a mess” for this class! $40 for members $45 for non-members

Mother’s Day Gift MakingMon., April 2nd and Fri., April 6th10:30am-Noon | Ages 5-10 yearsCome make a special gift for Mom that she’ll treasure forever. We’ll have everything wrapped up and ready for you to surprise Mom on her special day! $25 for members $30 for non-members

Father’s Day Gift MakingWed., June 13th 1pm-3pm | Ages 5-10 yearsChildren will join us for a hand on gift making expERIEnce. Those attending will enjoy a story and learn some interesting facts about Father’s Day and make a special, personalized gift and card to take home to Dad! $25 for members $30 for non-members 2-Day Class during

Spring Break!

Tie-Dye Tuesday Tues. June 26th 1pm-3pm | Ages 5-10 yearsCome learn some interesting facts about the colorful world of Tie Dyes! Bring in a t-shirt, pillowcase, or some socks and transform them into a unique colorful creation while listening to themed stories! All items to be dyed must be pre-washed and students should come in art-friendly clothing. $15 for members $20 for non-members

FOR AGeS 5/6-10

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Movement and Drama Thursdays, 1pm-2pm Children are invited to explore dramatic play and movement in these one-hour weekly sessions. A general theme is presented all month and each week’s activity introduces new techniques and experiences. Young ones engage in the magic of movement, music and drama. Monthly themes include … March Wacky Weather April Bunny Bop May Buzzin’ Bugs$3 for members – $5 for non-members

Puppetry Tuesdays in March | 10:30-11:30am Join us to play with puppets. Watch a puppet play and learn to create one of your own.$3 for members – $5 for non-members

Mini Masters Wednesdays, 10:30am-11:30amChildren participate in art activities with varying themes, each with the opportunity to take a new piece of art home. A general theme is presented all month and each week’s activity introduces new techniques and experiences. Students should come dressed in art-friendly attire. Monthly themes include … March Irish Art April April Showers Bring Rainbows May The Colors of Spring June Buggy and Beautiful$3 for members – $5 for non-members

These weekly offerings are designed especially for our younger

visitors, ages 3-5, and their parents/caregivers. Activities present

various themes, lessons and “expERIEnces” for little hands and

growing minds. Each week offers something new!

Pre-Registration is requested.

Register by calling (814) 453-3743.

Toddler STORYtime every Thursday at 10:30amChildren and parents are invited for a story and hands-on activity related to a different theme each week. Story Time is included with Museum admission.

FOR AGeS 3-5

Discover and expERIEnce…winter Activities

Visit our website for a list of weekly themes: www.eriechildrensmuseum.org

EXTRA family expERIEncesSt. Patrick’s Day Fun!Wed. – Fri., March 14th-16th | 11am-2pmMuseum guests will learn some entertaining facts about St. Patrick’s Day and also be able to take part in potato print making and themed tattoos!!

Saturday, March 17th | 10am-4pmStop in the Museum before the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and make some potato prints, listen to a few stories, and get decked out for the festivities with some St. Patrick’s Day themed tattoos and face painting.

earth Day excitement!Sunday, April 22nd, 1pm-4pmFamilies visiting the Museum this day will also get to expERIEnce some fun Earth Day activities! Children can make a planter, an Earth handprint, enjoy a themed story or two, and also learn ways to make Earth Day everyday!

Special Needs Awareness DayFriday, March 16th, 10am-noon & 1pm-3pmOur friends from Erie Homes for Children and Adults are visiting with some interesting adaptive equipment used to give those with developmental disabilities the opportunity to communicate and learn in various ways! Stop by to interact, explore and use the equipment. Learn about the great things that can be accomplished!

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THANK YOU!!

ReCeNT FUN at expeRIence Children’s Museum

expeRIence WellsvilleTHANK YOU to Kathy Iorio, Dr. Tony Snow and the Fox 66 Wellsville TV show team for stopping in to host our Get Fit and Have Fun Day. Guests had the opportunity to participate in fun family activities and to learn ways to feel healthy, be active and eat well. THANKS to Wal-Mart, two children each won a brand new bike! Congrats to Rivan Deets and Alexandria Obrecht! We hope you are enjoying your prize!

New Years expeRIence Children rang in 2012 at the museum with THREE count-downs and bubble stomps this year! This fun, family celebration also included balloon drops, hats and noisemakers.

The Kohl’s Cares Associates in Action program recently granted the Children’s Museum $500! The associates at the store volunteered their time and ran a supply drive to help

us get some needed items for the museum.

Under the Kohl’s Cares Associates in Action program,

when a minimum of five associates volunteer at least three consecutive hours with an organization, the organization receives a grant. We appreciate their help and items donated! If your company has a similar program, please contact us about supporting the Museum!

Beach expeRIence Families got out of the winter weather this past January and came inside the Children’s Museum for a Winter Beach expERIEnce! This event was reminiscent of summer days at the beach filled with leis, freeze pops, beach-glass activities and beach-themed games!

Decision AssociatesThe Children’s Museum was presented a $30,000 Services Grant from Decision Associates at the Nonprofit Day conference on October 12th.

The presentation was made by Bob Wooler, Director of The Nonprofit Partnership, Don Moore as President of Decision Associates and Emily Wachter, a Marketing Consultant with the firm. We are looking forward to working with the Decision Associates team in the areas of Strategic Planning, Marketing, and Capital Management.

Breakfast with SantaOur annual Breakfast with Santa was a sellout once again. This year we held 7 breakfasts where guests were treated to a hot breakfast, holiday activities, and a special visit from Santa. THANK YOU to everyone who helped make these breakfasts a success: Calamari’s,

Grise Audio Visual, H&K Donut Shop, Janitor’s Supply, Jerry and Martha Karle, Krispy Kreme Donuts, Mr. Barry LaCastro, McDonald’s, Pufferbelly, Sander’s Market, Mr. and Mrs. Chuck Santi, Starbucks Coffee,

Summer House Café, Tim Horton’s, and Tops Friendly Markets.

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KNAPP IS BACK!! Local artist Ehren Knapp is back at the museum to create another mural for us! Ehren will be painting a 3-story mural in our stairwell from the lower level to the second floor! This project is possible

through grants awarded from ArtsErie and the Pennsylvania Partners in the Arts. Watch his mural grow with each visit!

…did you NOTICe?

Attention …

participating

EITC Businesses

The Children’s Museum has been approved as an

EIO - Educational Improvement Organization!

Contact us for more info

on how to get Tax Credits!

THANK YOU!!

“Grown-ups Just Wanna Have Fun” 80’s PartyOur partnership with the Erie Philharmonic for our “Grown-ups Just Wanna Have Fun” 80s Party was a great success for both organizations! Attendees were enter-tained with 80s flashback games, pinball, arcade games, prizes, and great 80s music!

THANK YOU to everyone who made this day sensational: 1201 Kitchen, Calamari’s, The Pufferbelly, Vermont Tavern, Plymouth Tavern, Tom New, Mazza Winery, Grise Audio Visual, Frank Rizzone, Warner Coin, Under the Clock, Bertrand’s Bistro, Erie Water Works, Welder’s Supply, Northwest Savings, and Ye Ole Sweet Shoppe. Find out more at

communitydayevent.com

BON TON’S COMMUNITY DAYS• Help support the Children’s Museum and get some

special exclusive offers! We are participating in Bon Ton’s Community Days! For $5 you can purchase a Community Days coupon booklet and receive $200 and more in exclusive offers!

• Each booklet contains a $10 off coupon, a 20% off shopping pass, a 30% early bird coupon, and more. They will be valid on Friday, April 27th and Saturday, April 28th at any Bon Ton store! Special Pre-Sell begins on April 22nd! Customers can select their purchases in advance and have them rung with Community Day sale prices and Shopping Pass discount applied.

• The expERIEnce Children’s Museum retains 100% of the coupon booklet sales! Booklets are now available at the front desk!

Non-Profit OrgU.S. Postage

PAIDErie, PA

Permit No. 515

HoursTuesday – Saturday: 10am-4pm

Sunday: 1pm-4pmSee front page for special seasonal hours

Admission$6 per person

FRee to Museum membersand children 1 and under

Group rates are available

www.eriechildrensmuseum.org(814) 453-3743

Plan Your Museum

Visit

The Children’s Museum is a great place to have your child’s next birthday party!

When you book a party, you and your guests will have access to a private birthday party room for 2 hours, and be provided apple juice, paper products, and a birthday assistant! Pizza is also available.

Call the museum today

to book your party and stay tuned for some new fun and exciting add-ons to

make your party pop in the near future!

10% discount to museum members