JumpstART – Stories & Art is back, with new stories, new projects and a whole lotta fun!

The stories and art combo hour, which takes place at the Irving Arts Center, started up again in August and will continue through May 2009. JumpstART begins at 10 a.m. on the first Thursday of every month.

Led by Donita Maligi, a librarian at Irving Public Library, JumpstART begins with a story followed by a themed art project. This year’s themes include South of the Border – Hispanic Heritage Month, Giving Thanks and Holiday Stories – a Celtic Christmas, among others.

“JumpstART is a wonderful program for young children,” said Marcie Inman, director of exhibitions and educational programs for the Irving Arts Center. “We’ve found a great story-teller in Donita. She creates a very upbeat atmosphere by incorporating music and movement into her stories.”

The program is produced by the Irving Arts Center and Irving Public Library. It is suitable for children up to age 8 and runs from August to May.

The Arts Center is located at 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd, Irving, TX75062. For more information visit www.irvingartscenter.com or call (972) 252-7558.