Looking for a fun way to introduce your child to Virginia’s history? Then try the Time Travelers Program. The Arts Depot in Abingdon is pleased to announce they have once again been selected to be among the participating sites for the 2008 Time Travelers program. This program encourages students (kindergarten through 12th grade) and their families to gain a better understanding of Virginia history and culture by visiting Virginia's many museums, arts venues, and historical sites. This statewide program is in its twelfth year and includes over 300 participating sites across five regions of the state. You do not have to be a Virginia resident to participate. Over 30,000 children have completed the Time Travelers program. Visitors as far away as Brazil and Australia have returned their Time Traveler passports and received certificates and T-shirts.

The Virginia Time Travelers was developed by the Virginia History Initiative during governor George Allen's administration. The purpose is to boost interest in Virginia's rich historic and cultural attractions through a reward system that draws upon and strengthens the educational, cultural, and economic contributions of the commonwealth. This year’s theme is "Virginia Harmonies". Music has always been a part of Virginia’s heritage-from Pow Wow drummers to gospel singers to country music and blue grass festivals. In 2008 TimeTravelers invites you to learn more about Virginia’s music and musical roots by visiting theme sites.

More than 400,000 free "passports" are distributed to schools throughout the Commonwealth. Passports are also available at all participating sites, as well as libraries, tourist bureaus, and welcome centers. Each passport has a list of sites, locator map, instructions for completing the passport, and spaces for students to collect stamps from the sites they visit. Students who visit six different sites by December 1, 2008 will receive a free certificate signed by Virginia Governor Tim Kaine designating them as an official "2008 Virginia Time Traveler". They are also eligible to obtain a colorful Time Travelers T-shirt for a $10 Shipping & handling fee. A limited edition patch is available free to participants who have included at least two "Virginia Harmonies" sites as a part of their six visits. The "Master Traveler" designation is given to persons who visit more than the six required sites. They will have a special gold seal affixed to their certificates. Please stop by the Arts Depot to obtain the passport form and begin your journey. For more information on the program visit the TimeTravelers website at www.timetravelers.org or call the Arts Depot.

The Arts Depot is a non-profit volunteer organization that is dedicated to promoting the arts in the community and features the region's artists. The Arts Depot is located in the historic Depot Square area of downtown Abingdon, VA. The gallery and artist studios are open Thursday thru Saturday, 11-3 pm, or by appointment. There is no admission charge. For further information, please contact the Arts Depot at (276) 628-9091, or e-mail at abingdonartsdepot@abingdon.com or visit our web site at www.abingdonartsdepot.org.