The Bluebird Patch

Prepare for a wild adventure   beneath the Brazilian tree tops with  toucans, anteaters, poison frogs, and more!  Check out the  OPENING WEEKEND  as well as special  SENSORY-FRIENDLY  activities. It's a jungle out there in this entertaining and enlightening peek at the amazing Amazonian rainforest! Experience a day in the life of more than 30 exotic animals that live in this vital ecosystem.   A mischievous howler monkey leaps from tree to tree, a keen-eyed harpy eagle searches for its next meal, and pink river dolphins playfully peruse the waterways as the jungle comes to life in this vibrant escape to the tropics. Tickets: $16.50|Members: $9.25 Buy tickets online   or call 404-873-3391 Tickets include Performance, Museum entry, and the Create-A-Puppet Workshop where patrons can make their own  Electric Eel Ultraviolet Puppet  to take home!

I recently had the opportunity to watch Spare Parts , the true story of four Hispanic students from the  real robotics team from Carl Hayden Community High School , an inner city school in Phoenix that signed up for an underwater robot  competition  funded by NASA. With 800 bucks, used car parts and a dream, they build an ugly robot that was able to defeat engineering powerhouse and reigning robotics champion, MIT. I wanted the kids to see this movie because they are both inclined to work in STEM fields and I heard so many good things about this movie that I just couldn't wait until it came out on DVD.  The movie is mainly focused on the team building a robot but there's a parallel story that is as interesting as their journey building the robot and entering the  competition . You see, all four students had entered the country illegally; three out of the four were undocumented immigrants.  As a DACA recipient and undocumente...

There's a new princess is town! Princess Elena of Avalor, a confident and compassionate teenager in an enchanted fairytale kingdom inspired by diverse Latin cultures and folklore, will be introduced in a special episode of Disney Junior's hit series "Sofia the First" beginning production now for a 2016 premiere. That exciting story arc will usher in the 2016 launch of the animated series "Elena of Avalor," a production of Disney Television Animation. The announcement was made today by Nancy Kanter, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Disney Junior Worldwide. The series is targeted at kids ages 2-7 and aims to teach lessons about leadership, resilience, diversity, compassion and the importance of family and family traditions. The role of 16-year-old Princess Elena, t he bold, caring, funny and clever ascendant to the throne in the fairytale kingdom of Avalor, will be voiced by Aimee Carrero (ABC Family's "Young & Hungry...

Aurora Theatre  is one of Gwinnett best kept secret. This tiny but mighty venue gives you a very unique and intimate, immmersive theatrical experience that will knock your socks off. The Aurora's staff are like “The Island of Misfit Toys” because they are not only enigmatic, but are able to manage to produce 300 events and entertain 50,000 patrons each season.

    Helping Refugees, IKEA Foundation and UNHCR Provide Sustainable Lighting and Access to Primary Education The Brighter Lives for Refugees campaign returns to make a difference and create a better everyday life for the many refugees living around the world. Starting February 1 and running till March 28, 2015, for every LED light bulb purchased in IKEA stores, the IKEA Foundation will donate one euro ($1.16 *) to help UNHCR light refugee camps— making them a safer, more suitable place for the families who live there. In its first year (2014), the Brighter Lives for Refugees campaign, raised $10.6 million (€7.7 million**) globally, and the US alone raised over $570,000 through IKEA co-worker and customer support. Today there are almost 13 million refugees *** under UNHCR’s care, half of whom are children. For those refugees living in camps, all livelihoods, social and educational activities usually stop after sundown, beca...

To all my lovebirds who are still trying to figure out what to do for Valentine's day, here's a local event you might like. They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach so our  friend  and cookbook author Libbie Summers will be hosting a cooking class inspired by her second cookbook:  Sweet & Vicious—baking with attitude at Cook’s Warehouse on Wednesday, February 4th to show you how to put love back into your food! Sweet & Vicious: Baking with Attitude  is an interactive and entertaining cookbook filled with inventive recipes for baking that deliver a punch. And, award-winning author Libbie Summers is not your run-of-the-mill cook; she has an insatiable curiosity and a no-holds-barred approach to baking outside the box with crazy-brilliant combinations and loads of personality. Bring a sense of adventure into the kitchen and to your Valentine’s celebration this year. Grab a few fun-loving girlfriends and make a night of it. Libbie...

Touching and Humorous Play Examines the True Meaning of Family and Friends Picture this: an old-world grandmother, new-age grandson and a tiny New York apartment – what could possibly go wrong? Finalist for the 2013 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and Time Magazine’s number one Play or Musical of 2012,  4000 Miles rolls into Lawrenceville’s Aurora Theatre February 12 -March 1, 2015 ! Dynamic writer Amy Herzog uses her own feisty grandmother’s experiences and stories to shape the character of elderly Vera in this altogether sensitive and comical story. Audiences are invited to take a trip to New York City’s Greenwich Village and experience the implausible, yet beautiful relationship of two characters, as they embark on a journey to find their place in today’s world. “ 4000 Miles  is a rich, satisfying play filled with humorous moments in an unlikely setting,” says Aurora Producing Artistic Director Anthony Rodriguez. “Vera and Leo’s bond is deeply touching and serve...

Older Kids are Back to School but What to do with Youngsters?  Fernbank Museum Has the Answer with New Mommy & Me Mondays Promotion ATLANTA, January 27, 2015— Many moms wonder what they can do with 2 to 4-year-olds that’s fun, educational and tailored to this specific age group. Back by popular demand, Mommy & Me Mondays at Fernbank Museum of Natural History has the answer. Mommy & Me Mondays pairs a great discount with curated activities suited for the toddler set.

Buckhead’s premier shopping destination encourages customers to give generously through their closets and raise funds for their favorite charity with Fashion Project.  Guests can drop off clothing at Lenox Square’s Guest Services and earn a  $20 Simon Giftcard® for every five qualifying items. Select Simon malls, including  Lenox Square , are teaming up with  Fashion Project  to offer mall guests the opportunity to donate their gently worn clothing to benefit charitable causes. Fashion Project is the premiere online clothing donation service committed to using fashion as a force for good. Between  January 19, 2015 and February 1, 2015 , Lenox Square shoppers can pick up a Donation Bag at Simon Mall® Guests Services which is located on the mall’s main level in between David Yurman and Coach or request one online at  fashionproject.com/simon .

For more than 25 years, United Way of Greater Atlanta has partnered with FedEx, FOX 5 and others for Project Overcoat, a coat and blanket drive for men, women and children in need.   The drive runs through Saturday, January 24. The sorting and distribution of the coats will be coordinated by United Way and will be held February 4-6 and 9-13.   Project Overcoat is a perfect opportunity for families, church groups, civic organizations and others to volunteer. Last winter, residents throughout the 13-county metro region gave nearly 19,000 coats to their neighbors in need. This year’s goal is to collect 25,000 new and gently used blankets, coats, hats and gloves. United Way partners with 100 nonprofit agencies to distribute the items to men, women and children in need.   To sign up to volunteer, register at  unitedwayatlanta.org/events .    Please see the details below.   In addition to FedEx, other Project Overcoat sponsors include KISS 104.1 ...

The Atlanta Science Festival invites Georgia students (grades 6-12) to submit a T-shirt design that depicts what science means to them and how science can change the world. "World" could literally be interpreted to mean the planet. Or maybe it’s the role science might play in their personal worlds, whether they revolve around sports, school, family or socializing with friends, for example. The winner will receive two tickets to the event,   AnEvening with Neil deGrasse Tyson , at the Fox Theatre on Mar. 24, 2015; an on-stage award presentation during the Festival‘s   Exploration Expo   on Mar. 28, 2015; and 10 T-shirts for family or friends. The design will be judged by a panel of Atlanta Science Festival staff, board members, sponsors and partners on artistry, creativity, originality and the ability to communicate a clear and positive message. HOW  TO ENTER Designs must be submitted in digital format only and emailed to:  tshirt@atlantascienc...

Saturday February 21, 2015 1:00 - 3:00 PM Hi Bluebird Patch teens! Here's an exciting event for all those teens that are pursuing a STEM career.  GOAL:   To design and build a bridge type structure in one of two categories: Toothpick Category and Open-Materials Category.  After entrants have designed and built their bridges, the event provides a convenient, fun-filled place to test them and see how well they work. Participants will build their bridges in advance and bring them to the event. The bridges will be tested to failure (i.e. until they break) to measure their load carrying ability. LOCATION:  Fernbank Science Center, 156 Heaton Park Drive, Atlanta, GA 30307 ( Click here for directions ) ENTRANTS:    Open To All.  Students, parents, sponsoring engineers, and teachers are welcome to submit bridges!  Each entrant will receive a certificate with the results of the bridge test, an event T-shirt, and other interesting stu...

Hi Bluebird Patch teens! The Latino college and STEM fair is back at Georgia Tech. This is a free event with fun and  interactive  hands-on activities for the entire family. College and majors fairs. An opportunity to interact with Latino college students, parents, professionals, and scientists. Community resources. Free childcare for potty-trained children. Free raffles and door prizes. No pre-registration required. Come anytime between 9:30AM - 2:30PM. Mark your Calendar now! I go every year and L-O-V-E it!  http://www.gostem.gatech.edu/en/news/3rd-annual-latino-college-and-stem-fair

Krispy Kreme has a delicious assortment of Valentine Doughnuts featuring Hearts, Hug (O-shaped), Kiss (X-shaped), and the NEW- adorably sweet- Luv Bug doughnuts are available January 26th  through February 15 at participating Krispy Kreme® US and Canadian locations.   This year, to complement the confectionary craftsmanship of its doughnut artisans, Krispy Kreme has commissioned five local artists from the US and UK to create one-of-a-kind illustrations featuring its Valentines Doughnuts.  Visit  krispykreme.com  for more information and to find a location.

Lunch Date with Your Little Cupid  –  KIDS EAT FREE !  - Show your little cupid just how wild you are about them by treating them with a delicious treat! On Saturday, Feb. 7 and Sunday, Feb. 8 , from noon- 4 p.m., all four Atlanta-area Melting Pot locations invite you and your little heartthrob to enjoy a three-course fondue feast to celebrate St. Valentine’s holiday. Bring in a Valentine for a patient at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and receive  UNLIMITED  chocolate fondue!

Come Celebrate 45 Years of  Sesame Street ATLANTA, January 20, 2015 – Fernbank Museum of Natural History ( fernbankmuseum.org ) is excited to be partnering with Georgia Public Broadcasting to celebrate 45 Years of  Sesame Street  with a  Sesame Street Celebration  on January 24 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Fernbank’s  Great Hall  will host photo opportunities with the famous  Sesame Street  Brownstone and an appearance from Cookie Monster. The event will also include a game station, a  macaroni-saurus  craft, temporary tattoos and more. Guests are encouraged to dress up in their favorite  Sesame Street  costumes or clothing and are invited to participate in a costume contest that will take place at noon. Various local children’s authors will do live readings of their stories in the Naturalist Center on Fernbank’s upper level throughout the event day. After hearing a fun story, guests are invited to the a...

Fernbank Science Center announces a special concert by renowned space music composer Jonn Serrie. Serrie will perform a romantic selection of his music on Friday, February 13th for one show only, accompanied by the star projector and other visual effects at Fernbank Science Center’s Jim Cherry Planetarium. “We’re so lucky that a composer of Jonn’s stature, who actually  specializes  in planetarium soundtracks, is based here in Atlanta,” says Fernbank Science Center astronomer, April Whitt. Collaborating with him on our holiday shows has been a treat for all of us, even more so for the audiences, so it’s wonderful to do something with him to observe Valentine’s.”

      ATLANTA, GA (January 16, 2015) – For a fifteenth straight year, Simon Youth Foundation, a national nonprofit that provides educational opportunities for at-risk high school students, will award a college scholarship to one student from every community that is home to a Simon property. Simon Youth Foundation Community Scholarships are awarded through the Simon Youth Scholarships program and in partnership with local Simon properties. The application period has begun and ends onFebruary 25, 2015. Students can apply online by visiting  www.syf.org . Any student who will be graduating in the class of 2015 and lives within 50 miles of a Simon property is eligible. The program will award a one-time scholarship of up to $1,500 to students who plan to enroll in an accredited college, university, vocational or technical school.  

Atlanta’s premiere luxury shopping destination to light up 2015 with stunning new fixture ATLANTA, January 15, 2015 — Phipps Plaza, the Southeast’s top luxury shopping destination located in the heart of Atlanta’s fashionable Buckhead district, is shedding light on an upcoming chandelier removal and installation project as part of its extensive renovation. On Tuesday, January 6, the former grand chandelier which has hung in the mall’s Court of the South since 1992 was removed to make way for a new lighting installation -- a stunning sixteen-feet wide by 7-feet tall chandelier composed of an illuminated core, surrounded by 88 stainless steel spears and featuring over 2,600 acrylic spheres throughout the fixture. Inspired by the chandeliers in New York City’s Metropolitan Opera and the Chicago Waldorf Astoria Hotel, this custom LED lighting enhancement will complement Phipps Plaza’s other recent interior makeovers, providing the property with a fresh new look and feel.

When chocolate and coffee get together, delicious things happen. Today I wanted to share a quick and easy recipe for those cold winter nights when you are studying at home and need an extra boost of energy. Let's face it we all love going to Starbucks but there are days we are just too lazy to get out of the house, so why not make your own signature coffee at a fraction of the cost. The trick to a good chocolate chip mocha coffee is using the right ingredients. It's okay to cheat with a Keurig Café Mocha specialty pod but if you enjoy the smokey, bitter, rich flavor of coffee you need to use espresso. For the chocolate chip mocha coffee drink you will need: 6 oz  of brewed espresso (Bustelo coffee is great for this) 1 ½ tablespoon of Hershey's unsweetened cocoa powder 2 ounces of milk (condensed milk is amazing) Sugar (to taste) Whipped Cream 60% Cacao Bittersweet Chocolate Baking Chips Organic honey Directions: Add steam milk to y...

Award-winning Musical Sensation Returns to Historic Lawrenceville Venue LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga., (December 8, 2014)  –  Will you join in our crusade, who will be strong and stand with me?  Audiences are invited to celebrate the global phenomenon of the French novel turned award-winning musical and motion picture  Les   Misérables . The revolution returns to the  Aurora Theatre  stage  January 15 – March 1, 2015 . Winner of five Suzi Bass Awards, including “Best Musical,” audiences will be immersed into Victor Hugo’s heart wrenching tale of passion, sacrifice and betrayal – a testament to the strength and survival of human spirit. With unforgettable melodies like  Bring Him Home ,  Master of the House ,  I Dreamed a Dream  and  On My Own , Aurora’s Mainstage theatre provides an intimate setting for audiences to become engrossed in one of the world’s most popular musicals.

Big Bad Wolf Works Overtime at the Center for Puppetry Arts The jokes keep coming in this witty mash-up of stories WHAT :      The Big Bad, Little Red, Pig Show  by Lee Bryan, That Puppet Guy of Atlanta, GA                         Look out! Little Red is ridin' into your 'hood, the Three Little Pigs are hamming it up and the Big Bad Wolf is working double time in this twisted tangle of tales. Two childhood favorites have been cleverly "squished" together with just one Big Bad Wolf to share in all of the hilarious fun! Meet the trio of delightful little pigs including Hamlet, Miss Barb B. Que and their very famous cousin Kevin Bacon!  Click here  to see a trailer. Lee Bryan, That Puppet Guy, is a popular, Emmy-nominated Atlanta puppeteer celebrating 20 years of performi...

A Swashbuckling Family Fun Day ATLANTA, January 6, 2015 – By popular demand, Fernbank will offer another Pirate Day  on  Saturday, January 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  The event will feature various pirate-themed activities, which are perfect for families to enjoy together.  Pirate Day  activities include a special craft using recycled newsprint, temporary pirate tattoos, a Pirate Name Generator and a variety of games, including “Walk the Plank.” Guests will also have an opportunity to participate in a special Museum scavenger hunt, providing a fun opportunity to explore the Museum’s permanent exhibitions. The highlight of this popular event will be appearances by members of the Atlanta Pirates and Wenches Guild, dressed in authentic pirate gear.

“ THE ULTIMATE ELVIS TRIBUTE ARTIST EVENT” MAKES ATLANTA PREMIERE JAN. 31 AT THE FOX THEATRE Tickets On Sale! ATLANTA, GA – On Stage Touring, LLC, in association with Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. (EPE), is proud to announce the national hit theatrical Elvis Lives will be presented for the first time in Atlanta, GA at the Fox Theatre Saturday, Jan. 31 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets ($38, $58 and $100) are on sale to the general public Friday, Dec. 12 at 10 a.m. at  www.FoxTheatre.org , by calling  855-285-8499 , or at the Fox Theatre Ticket Office. Discounts for groups of 10 or more are available by calling  404-881-2000 .