Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Nutcracker Dreams

The Audience of One Studio wants to bring Nutcracker Dreams to your home in Bay County!

Think of the joy on your dancer's face when the senior company dancers appear in your home in full Nutcracker costume and share the joy of this Christmas ballet with her. You will be visited by several of their older ballerinas dressed as Nutcracker characters. They will share the Nutcracker story, perform a dance and pose for photos to your hearts content.

The senior dancers hope to attend summer ballet intensive with Ballet Magnificat, a Christan classical ballet company. Your minimum contribution of $30.00 for the Nutcracker visit will help them get closer to that dream, as well as bring a Christmas ballet dream to your dancer. You may call Karen Napier at 271-2061, or e-mail her at bay855@mchsi.com to schedule your Saturday appointment between now and Christmas.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009


VSA arts Announces
International
Collaborative Art Project

Deadline: February 5, 2010

Get out your art supplies and join people from around the world in a collaborative art project that will get us all thinking about disability. VSA arts is taking a creative approach to investigate how many ways people will interpret the same word. Create a visual representation of your experiences, impressions, and perceptions of disability on a printable postcard template and send it back to us. A selection of postcards received will be featured at the 2010 International VSA arts Festival in June.

This opportunity is open to everyone. We’re looking to involve people of different cultures, ethnicities, geographic locations, and abilities. You do not have to consider yourself an “artist” to participate. For additional information on this project and to download the postcard template, please visit www.vsarts.org/postcardproject.

Please send all postcards to:

Wendy Finklea
VSA arts of Florida
3500 E. Fletcher Ave.
Tampa, Florida 33613
wfinklea@coedu.usf.edu
813-558-5093

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Ask a Librarian holds Video contest

Florida high school students are invited to participate in The Third Annual Director’s Chair, a contest in which students create commercials to promote Ask a Librarian and flaunt their directorial skills.

Ask a Librarian is a free online service that allows patrons to chat with a librarian for help with homework or general questions.

Floridians in ninth through 12th grade are invited to submit to YouTube a 30-second video promoting Ask a Librarian by Jan. 24, 2009, for the chance to win a digital video camera, a digital camera or a MP3 player.

For more information, contact me at sachsd@tblc.org or visit www.askalibrarian.org/thedirectorschair.

Diana Silveira
Virtual Reference Manager
Tampa Bay Library Consortium
813.622.8252 ext 234
silveirad@tblc.org
www.askalibrarian.org
YahooIM: diverdee987

Friday, November 13, 2009

Art Camp at the Kirksey’s


Leanne Kirksey is holding an Art Camp during the holiday "break" for homeschoolers. Please email or call Leanne to reserve your spot. Space is limited.
Leannekirksey@comcast.net
850-271-4154

November & December schedule:
$10 per child, per session
All ages are welcome. Children under 6 may need someone to stay and help.

Friday, Nov. 20 10-11:30 a.m.
Navajo Sand Painting

Tuesday, Nov. 24 1-2:30 p.m.
Huichol Yarn Painting

Tuesday, Dec. 1 1-2:30 p.m.
Watercolor Batik Greeting Cards

Friday, Dec. 4 10-11:30 a.m.
Mexican Metal Tooling Ornaments

Friday, Dec. 11 10-11:30 a.m.
Paper Quilling

Friday, Dec. 18 10-11:30 a.m.
Acrylic Painting*

*$2 extra fee to cover additional cost of canvas.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009


The National Homeschool Football Association will be holding the national playoffs at Pete Edwards Field on 19, 20, and 21 November. Homeschool football teams from around the country will compete for the 2009 NHFA National Championship.

The Springfield Chargers from Missouri plan to defend their crown while teams from Georgia, Louisiana, South Carolina, Michigan, Virginia and other states will challenge. Homeschool teams interested in attending should contact them immediately at 770-714-5775.
For more information visit www.homeschool-football.com.

Saturday, October 17, 2009

Upward Basketball Registration


Carlisle Baptist Church is sponsering Upward Basketball for the 2009-2010 school year for first through sixth graders. Registration has already begun. If you register before October 31 the cost is $55. Final registration, with a fee of $65 will continue through the first week in November and the season will begin on November 30th.

You can download registration forms from upward.org.

Monday, October 12, 2009

FREE Home School PE Session


Coach Steve Canfield is offering a FREE PE Session for Bay County homeschoolers Monday, October 19th from 10:00 - 11:30 am at the Lynn Haven Recreation Center. Girls and boys of all ages will have fun while keeping fit! Contact Janice Brooks at janicembrooks4@yahoo.com for more information and to sign up for your Free session.


Friday, October 9, 2009

2nd Annual Fire Prevention Fest


Saturday, October 10, 2009 from 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Gulf Coast Community College is hosting the Second Annual Fire Prevention Day. There will be a Special Opening Ceremony at 10:00 AM. All activities will take place in the parking lot of GCCC at the corner of Hwy 98 & 23rd Street.

Fun ~ Demonstrations ~ Displays ~ Games ~Hot Dogs ~ Drinks ~ And More!!!

Free and open to public!!

You can see more information at: http://www.gulfcoast.edu/documents/FirePreventionFlyer2009.pdf

Thursday, October 8, 2009

Daughters of the American Revolution Essay Contest

The Daughters of the American Revolution are having an essay contest and they are welcoming homeschoolers to participate. The contest is open to 5th - 8th graders, each grade competing against itself.

There will be awards and recognition for the winners at each grade level. The students, their parents and teachers will be honored at the annual George Washington’s Birthday Awards Tea, Tuesday, February 23, 2010, 2:00 P.M. at the Panama Country Club in Lynn Haven.

The subject for the 2009-2010 year’s essay contest is: “ Describe how you felt on May 10, 1869, when the golden spike was driven at Promontory Summit, Utah, to celebrate the completion of the First Transcontinental Railroad. Pretend you are either a settler planning to use the train to travel to your new home in the West, an Irish or Chinese worker who helped build the line, or a Native American whose way of life was greatly affected by the railroad. Note the Title of the essay is “The Transcontinental Railroad”.

All essays are due by Tuesday, December 1, 2009.

For more information you can view the following pdf files.
Essay Contest Rules
Summary of Rules
Guidelines for Judges

Sunday, October 4, 2009

Covenant Ballet

Covenant Christian School has partnered with Michelle Williams of The Panama City Dance Academy to create a ballet/dance program that is both praiseworthy as well as classically-minded. Michelle has been a dance instructor for 19 years and has lots of experience with competitive dance where her students have excelled.

Ballet classes will begin the week of October 12. Sign-up sheets are available in the school office as well as a time sheet indicating the age-group of students and times those classes are offered. The ballet room will be located in the upstairs classroom in the gym.

A meet and greet with Michelle and her team of ballerinas will be held on Tuesday night, October 6 at 6:00 in the Fellowship Hall. If you would like to meet Michelle, please use this opportunity to do so. Tuition rates, dress code, trophy, and recital information will be discussed at this meeting. If you are unable to attend, you may pick up an information packet in the front office. As always, non-Covenant students are welcome to join the classes.

2009-2010 COVENANT BALLET AND DANCE SCHEDULE

Two-year-old ballet- Mondays 11:30-12:15 - Michelle
K3 ballet - Mondays or Tuesdays 12:35-1:20 - Michelle
K4 ballet - Wednesdays or Thursdays 12:35-1:20 - Michelle
K5 ballet - Wednesdays 1:30-2:15 - Michelle
K5 jazz/tap -Tuesdays 1:30-2:15- Michelle
5-7 year-old ballet/jazz -Tuesday 5:45-6:30- Stephanie
1st-3rd ballet - Monday 3:45-4:45 - Allison
1st-3rd jazz/tap - Tuesday 2:45-3:30 - Michelle
4th-6th jazz/tap - Tuesday 3:30-4:30 - Stephanie
4th-6th Christian Lyrical -Tuesday 4:45-5:30- Stephanie
4th-6th ballet -Friday 3:00-4:00- Allison
7th-12th Christian Lyrical -Wednesday 3:00-4:00- Jean
7th-12th ballet -Wednesday 4:00-5:00- Allison

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Sizzling Science!

Event Date: 10/2/2009
Event Time: 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Description: It’s the Fourth Annual Sizzling Science! On Friday, October 2, GCCC and Bay District School teachers and students will display some of the wonders of science for ALL to enjoy. Sizzling Science begins at 4 PM in the science quad green space between the Science and Technology buildings of Gulf Coast Community College and will continue until 7 PM. The event is 100% FREE and open to the community .

Kids of ALL ages will be able to:
~ Walk through a life size cell
~ See rockets being launched
~ Dissect various specimens
~ Touch different marine organisms
~ Watch a chemistry magic show
~ and much more!

Come be a part of the FUN and discover just how exciting science is. If you have any questions or want to help, please contact Tammy Stundon at stundtm@bay.k12.fl.us or call Beverly Sapp at 769-1551, ext. 3851.

Saturday, September 26, 2009

Zoobilee 2009

Zoo World on Panama City Beach is having Zoobilee 2009 this weekend, September 26 & 27
Admission is ONLY $1.00 per person (age 2 & up)
Gates will open at 9:30 a.m.
Last admittance will be at 4:30
The zoo will be closed at 5:00 p.m.

Friday, September 25, 2009

The Band of the US Air Force Reserve

Listen to the Band of the US Air Force Reserve Saturday, October 3 from 7:30 – 8:30pm at the Marina Civic Center. Tickets are FREE and available at the Panama City Marina Civic Center.

Fusion Athletics- Home School PE Sessions

Coach Steve Canfield is offering PE Sessions for Panama City homeschoolers:
Basketball, Volleyball, Dodgeball, Kickball, Capture the Flag, Cardio Conditioning, Wiffleball, Soccer, Field Games... and much MORE!
PE sessions are for all ages, girls and boys.
$10 per Session: 1st Child
$5.00 Each Additional Family Member
Training Sessions at Lynn Haven Recreation Center
Mondays 10:00 - 11:30
Projected Start Date: Oct 12, 2009

For more information, please see their flyer.

Contact Coach Canfield to sign up:
Home 850-784-1444
Cell 850-532-9193
scanfield75@msn.com

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Museum Day, September 26, 2009

Smithsonian Magazine's Museum Day is Saturday, September 26, 2009. Recieve FREE Museum Admission for you and a guest by visiting their site. They have many participants in the Florida Panhandle, especially in Tallahassee and Ft. Walton.

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Florida KidCare Contest

Florida KidCare, the state and federally-funded insurance program, is hosting an art/technology contest for students across the state of Florida, including home school students. Florida KidCare is asking students to embrace their creativity and technology to create a 30-second commercial or billboard to promote the importance of health care for children. The contest is open to students ages 12-18 who are in the 7th-12 grades across the state of Florida. It is an opportunity for students to express their creativity and win a $5,000 scholarship.

To download the entry form and contest guidelines and to view last year’s winners, visit www.actout4health.org.

For questions about the Act-Out for Health contest, please call Annie Jones, communications specialist for the Florida Healthy Kids Corporation at (850) 701-6114.

Contest entries must be postmarked or submitted online no later than Wednesday, December 2, 2009.

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

The Price of Art


The Price of Art
By Heather Parker

This Saturday, Sept 19, ArtCoop hosts its 4th Annual 50% Off Sale from 10am to 6pm. The sale allows visual artists in Bay County a ‘free day” to set up and sell their art to the public at half-off their normal price. ArtCoop does not charge the artists any fees to set up nor charge commissions on sales.

“This is a real benefit for visual artists and for their customers,” says Heather Parker, ArtCoop Creative Director. “Normally, in order for an artist to sell their art, they have to get gallery representation, pay a fee to set up in a festival, or pay a submission fee to display in a show. Some galleries take up to a 50% commission on sales and fees can add up. Those fees and commissions are reflected in the prices of art. The 50% Off Sale at ArtCoop allows artists, for one day, to cut their prices by 50% and pass the savings directly on to the customer.

Mary Ola Miller, matron of local arts and long time owner of the Gallery of Art on Beach Drive, said it like this- if you have your art in a gallery and the gallery takes a 50% commission, the artist shouldn’t take it out of the gallery and sell it the next day for 50% less. Keep the piece the same price and when the artist makes their own sale, the artist collects the commission on the sale. That is the best advice an artist will ever get on how to price their work- it is good for the artist and good for the galleries.

But, once a year, ArtCoop breaks the rules.

ArtCoop has been asked if the half off sale hurts sales throughout the year, and the answer is no, not a bit. The more exposure an artist can get, the better off they are- and this half off sale creates positive exposure. Buyers love to come meet the artists and hear the stories behind the art. It is a positive experience for everyone, even for the local galleries, because it helps the public to understand what goes into the price of a work of art beyond just the cost of supplies.

The price of art this Saturday? Half off.

This is not a scratch and dent sale. Customers will find original art of all styles and sizes, pottery, assemblage art, oil paintings, framed and unframed art, prints, cards, and more. Many artists take special orders for holiday delivery. Over 20 artists will be set up inside and outside at 535 Mercer Avenue, Downtown Panama City, just off 6th between Jenks and Oak. For directions, call 850-760-0608 or on the web at www.artcooppanamacity.com

ArtCoop, is a nonprofit art co-op for visual, literary and performing artists whose mission is to provide artists of all types a place where they can create, teach, and learn.

Saturday, September 12, 2009

Teenpact Florida

Bay County homeschoolers are going to Teenpact Florida April 5-8, 2010.

TeenPact teaches the foundations of government with the legislative branch, beginning with a week-long session at the student's own capitol. Spiritually, TeenPact teaches Biblical principles of government and family, going hand-in-hand with the values of families who participate. Visit www.Teenpact.com to find out more.

If you are interested in registering for the One Day Class or the Four Day Class in Florida, email Helen by Sept. 22nd. If we have 10 or more new students for the same class registering together, we get the group discount of $20 per student! Also, if we register in Sept we get a double early bird discount of $30.

We will be working together to raise funds for this very valuable event in your child's/young adult's life. Act fast...last year one of Florida's two weeklong classes filled early. This one has the potential to do the same.

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Safety Day at the Jr Museum

The Bay County Jr. Museum is having their 4th Annual Safety Day on Saturday, September 26th, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. till 2:00 p.m.
The event is free and you can receive $1 off the museum admission if you present this flyer!

Bay Patriots Presentation

The Bay Patriots will be presenting a live presentation called "The Constitution and You" to area home school groups on Monday, September 21 at 3:00 PM. This event is taking place at Living Word Fellowship on 19th Street near Hwy 231, next to Bay Credit Union. At the center of the presentation is a lively discussion between some of the Founding Fathers about how our constitution came about and why young people today should care about it. Come and learn at this enjoyable event.

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Bay County Christian Youth Choir

What is it? An independent interdenominational Christian youth choir for 9th - 12th grades with some exceptions for 8th grade and early college.

What type and style of music does the choir sing? The choir sings a mixture of classical choral literature, traditional hymn arrangements, spirituals as well as contemporary praise and worship songs, and each choir member will have a speaking part during the tour program.

When does the choir meet? Sunday afternoons from 3:30 to 5:00 at the First Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall (in downtown Panama City). The first rehearsal is October 4, 2009, and there will be an open house (dinner provided free of charge) at the First Presbyterian Fellowship Hall on Tuesday evening, September 22 at 6:00pm.

Why is there a new choir? The choir is an interdenominational choir that will attract youths from many different churches in Bay County, in particular those churches that do not have a touring youth choir. The choir has adopted the evangelical statement of faith published by the National Association of Evangelicals, and our prayer is that we will walk beside our local churches in assisting them to train the next generation to be worshippers of Christ.

How often will the choir sing? Is there a Tour? The choir will have a Christmas program, will sing in area churches and for civic functions every few weeks. The highlight is the Spring Tour after the School year; on tour the choir will travel on a charter bus, sing at churches, retirement homes and rescue missions, learn from Bible studies, meet people through concerts and evenings with "homestay parents" from churches, and have fun at historical sites, amusement parks, museums, etc)! The destination for the 2010 Spring Tour is San Antonio and Austin, Texas, and the tentative dates are June 9 or 10 (Wednesday/Thursday) through June 19 (Saturday).

What does it cost? The primary expense is the choir tour, and the estimated cost for choir tour is $300 to $600 depending on the destination. We will work with your local church to encourage them to assist choir members in paying choir fees and there will be a scholarship fund to provide supplemental funding for those that can not afford the fees.

Who are the directors? Nevin Zimmerman, Director; Jody Schnell, Vocal Coach; Gigi Zimmerman, Tour Coordinator. These three bring many years of choral and youth experience to the choir: Nevin and Jody have been music directors at their respective churches; Nevin and Gigi started the Covenant Presbyterian Youth Choir in 1992 and have worked continuously with it, and Jody is the choral director at Mosley High School, directs the Pro Arte Chorale.

What is the mission of the choir? The Bay County Christian Youth Choir experience teaches choir members (i) to speak and sing in public, (ii) the experience of homestays with "strangers" that are brothers and sisters in Christ, (iii) how to work together to achieve goals that can only be achieved collectively, (iv) the discipline of making a long-term commitment and the rewards of hard work,(v) how to "get along" with fellow choir members and (vi) skills that enable them to be what God has called us all to be: worshipers of Him.

To obtain more information about the Bay County Christian Youth Choir, Inc. contact Nevin at 850.215.6604 and/or nevin@nevinzimmerman.com.

ArtCoop’s 4th Annual 50% Off Sale

Saturday, September 19 from 10am to 6pm

Original Art by Local Artists- Featuring works by ArtCoop Directors Heather Parker, Zan Miller, Billie Bas’sette, Suzanne McDowell, Barbara Stevens, Kelly Duncan, and Helen Neal, and over 20 Panama City Artists!

All art is 50% off the tagged price!

Prices range from $5 to $1000- prices for every budget!

This is a ‘commission free’ day for artists (no set up fee, no commission on sales) so the artists can pass the savings on to you! Choose from originals, prints, cards, and more. Find out about art classes, workshops, and memberships. Artists are available for commissions.

ArtCoop
535 Mercer Avenue, Panama City Fl 32401
Just off 6th street between Jenks and Oak, around the corner from the Downtown Post Office
850-769-0608
info@artcooppanamacity.com
www.artcooppanamacity.com

Friday, September 4, 2009

Christian School closes, SALE

Panama City Christian School has closed its doors as of this year and is liquidating their materials. They are located at 1104 Balboa Ave, at the corner of 11th and Balboa, the same street as the Bay District Schools building.

The sale is this Saturday, September 5, from 7 AM to noon in their gym. They have desks, chairs, and computers, and from their daycare/preschool cribs and toys. There may be teachers desks and other stuff as well. Just imagine what a school would have that the church does not need!

They also have books, but you will have to ask to be directed to another "book room" to see those. In the past they used mostly Abeka books.

Thursday, September 3, 2009

Character Training Homeschool Conference

Friday-Saturday, September 18-19th
Woodlawn United Methodist Church (please enter in building to the far right not the main entrance)
Hosted by Fellowship of Christian Teaching Homes.

Authors of "The Well-Trained Heart," as well as 3 language arts & writing curricula, you won't want to miss this phenomenal family speaking on a variety of topics (see brochure for details).

Pre-registration required for child care to ensure adequate number of workers. Please advise age of children when pre-registering.

Contact: Melanie McLaughlin with any questions or to register. Simply email name & number attending per session.

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Classical Conversations Panama City Open House

Classical Conversations is hosting an Open House Thursday, September 10, 2009.

All homeschooling families are welcome to experience a day of Classical Conversations, free of charge. Your elementary aged children will participate in class with a science experiment, have an art lesson and learn several facts in a variety of subjects. Bring your middle schooler or highschooler to experience the Challenge class. A parent must accompany children for the day.

Date: September 10, 2009
Location: The Rock, 2413 Harris Ave, Panama City, FL
Time: 9:00 A.M. -12:00 P.M. for Foundations (Grades K4-6th)
1:00 P.M. - 3:00 P.M for Essentials (Grades 3rd -6th, Language Arts)
8:00 A.M. -12:00 P.M - Challenge (Grades 7th-11th)
Bring a pack lunch and stay for fellowship!

To reserve your spot and receive more information, please RSVP to
• Shonda Bush, bushsg@bellsouth.net, for K4-6th grades,
• Helen Holmes, Hholmes40@aol.com, for 7th and 8th grades,
• Johnny Gonzales, jgonzales96@gmail.com, for 9th-11th grades

Visit our website at www.ccpcfl.com to learn more about us!

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Governor Charlie Crist's Hispanic Heritage Month Student Contests

September is Hispanic Heritage Month and Governor Charlie Crist has invited Florida students in kindergarten through 12th grades to participate in the seventh annual Florida Hispanic Heritage Month student contests. The contests are part of a month-long series of events planned to commemorate Florida’s Hispanic heritage. The theme for this year’s celebration is “Florida: Embracing Its Hispanic Roots While Looking to the Future.”

You can visit www.FloridaHispanicHeritage.com to read about Florida’s Hispanic heritage, as well as learn about the art, essay and podcast contests.

The contest deadlines occur on September 16. Contest winners will be notified the week of October 5, 2009. Awards will be presented at the Governor’s annual Hispanic Heritage Month celebration in Tallahassee in October.

All contest entries must be mailed to the Executive Office of the Governor, Attention: Hispanic Heritage Month Contests, 400 South Monroe Street, Suite LL-10, Tallahassee, Florida 32399. All contest entries must be by postmarked by September 16, 2009, and each student is limited to one entry per contest.

PSAT testing


Covenant Presbyterian School is offering PSAT testing on October 14, 2009 at 12:00 noon. The test will take approximately two and a half hours.

DEADLINE FOR SIGN UP IS THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3!!!

The cost is $13 per student. Students 9th grade and up can take the test. 11th graders qualify for scholarships if test scores are high!

This test cannot be substituted for an evaluation or standardized testing to be sent into the school district.

Contact Jaymie Christmas at jaymiec@bellsouth.net.

Sunday, August 30, 2009

ACTING CLASSES WITH SHARON CARROLL



Mondays
  • 1:15-2:15 Creative Drama for 4-6 year olds
  • 3:30-4:30 Middle School Acting
Tuesdays
  • 4:00-5:00 Elementary Acting
  • 5:15-6:15 High School Acting
*Please note – there is intentionally some overlap – 1st graders can take either the Monday @1:15 class or the Tuesday @4:00 class. 5th graders can take the elementary or middle school class.

$180 tuition per student
(Can be paid in 3 monthly installments of $60 – Sept., Oct., Nov.)
$20 Registration fee
Classes August 31/Sept. 1 – Dec. 14/15
Limited space available/Classes to be held @ Holy Nativity Episcopal Church
Call 960-5510 to reserve your slot!

Goal: To help children overcome fears of being in front of people, become confident and comfortable with themselves and become quick thinkers through activities such as theatre games and improvisation; channel creativity through in-depth character and scene study; learn the meaning and experience the feeling of “team work” through the process of preparing for a production; to instill a life-long appreciation for the arts.



Credentials
B.S. Drama & English
3 years Drama Director – Mosley High School
2 years adjunct professor GCCC – Voice for Musical Theatre
Member – Actors Equity Association
3 years Kaleidoscope Kidz Kamp Musical Theatre director
Directed plays @ Kaleidoscope Theatre & GCCC
Regional & Dinner Theatre performance experience

Saturday, August 29, 2009

Homeschoolers in the news

WJHG News Channel 7 in Panama City, FL recently did an interview with two local homeschooling moms. If you would like to take a peek, you can visit the WJHG website here. It is encouraging when the media shows home schoolers in such a positive light!

Friday, August 28, 2009

The Homeschooler's Friend Support Meeting

The Homeschooler's Friend is a local homeschooling support group that has been helping home schoolers in the Panama City area for many years now. They are kicking off the school year with a support meeting for home schooling families. In their own words...

It’s that time of year again. Summer is coming to an end and a new school year is about to begin. For some of you, it is already underway. We have some exciting things planned for this school year and wanted to share some of them with you.


First we’d like to tell you of our upcoming support meeting. It will be this Tuesday, September 1, 2009 from 3:00 to 5:00. It will be held at Emerald Coast Fellowship. They are located at 4102 Hwy 390 in Lynn Haven. We are anxious to calm fears that The Homeschooler’s Friend is fading out and we are ready for you to meet the new board members!! We are excited for you all to hear and see all that is planned for this school year. We will have tables set up for you to see what your homeschool community is offering you and your family. We will also have some tables available for a Used Curriculum Sale. Please make sure your books are clearly marked with your name and price, so that those interested in purchasing can find you. Our website is under construction, so if you have not renewed your membership, you will be able to do so on Tuesday. You will also have the opportunity to give us your input on things you might like to see the group do this year, as well as, sign up to volunteer. Remember, we are all ‘volunteers’ and that is what will make our group a strong, successful group. JUMP IN where you can and make a difference!

We wanted to share some upcoming events with you and you will be able to receive more information on Tuesday. Some events/activities planned are:

  • Science/History Fair
  • Art Show
  • Community Projects
  • Field Trips: T.V. station, post office
  • Teen Night
  • Mom’s Night Out

We are now on Facebook! Add us as your friend!! We have many activities in the works and we are looking forward to meeting each one of you and working together to offer our children the best homeschool experience possible!!


The Homeschooler’s Friend,

Angi Wirrick
Chelinia Kirk
Kari Kremin
Marie Lago
Dawn Reyes
Alice Rienzo

….Supporting local homeschoolers through friendship…….

Sunday, August 16, 2009

Contenders for the Faith

The Contenders for the Faith is a group for boys, ages 5 through 14. Contenders is similar to other scout programs. The boys work on projects to earn pins/badges that they get at the end of the year.

The boys will learn about different things each month, do various science experiments, and develop skills in leadership while making lasting friendships with other boys their age. Combined with hands on activities this group will aid them in developing good habits in their own walk with God. Contenders is a great way for boys to meet friends and have fun!
The first meeting will be Tuesday, Sept. 22 from 1-2:30pm at Forest Park United Methodist Church on 23rd St. We will meet two Tuesdays of each month from 1-2:30pm. Registration is $20 and is due at sign-up.

Contenders is the brother group to GEMS for ALOF and runs during each of their meetings. Please contact Wanda to pre-register your son.

Gems for ALOF

GEMS and ALOF girls clubs
A New Approach...a New Age Group

GEMS and ALOF are Christian based girls’ clubs that focus on equipping girls for the future. This year, the two groups are combining to form "Gems for ALOF". This new group will be geared towards older girls, ages 8-17.
This new group will meet two Tuesdays a month beginning Sept 22.
Each year, we will study a new home skill...cooking, sewing, etc.

Our theme for this year will be
"Fruits of the Kitchen."
The girls will learn to cook (kitchen safety, basic food preparation and presentation, baking, etc). No prior cooking knowledge is required. This new group will be a fun way to learn to cook and make friends.

Each meeting we will prepare our snack as part of our lesson, so we will have an ingredient sign-up list rather than a snack list.
Gems for ALOF will also produce a cookbook of all the recipes we use and tips we learn.

At the end of the year, we will hold a "Fruits of the Kitchen" picnic in which the girls will prepare an entire buffet and show off their new-found culinary skills.

We will be meeting two Tuesdays of every month from 1-2:30
Sept. 2009 thru May 2010 at
Forest Park United Methodist Church on 23rd St. in Panama City.
$25 Registration fee due at registration

Mrs. Ruth will be taking a break this year from GEMS. We will all miss her so very much. She was the driving force behind our groups and an incredible leader. This means I will need some moms to help with different jobs (ingredient sign-up, pictures, etc) Please let me know if you can volunteer...every little bit helps..
Contact Kari Kremin for more info.

Friday, August 14, 2009

Art Class at the Kirksey’s

Beginning in September, Leanne will be offering small group art classes in her home in Lynn Haven for homeschool students in Bay County. She just completed a 2 month art camp over the summer that covered several mediums and was a lot of fun for the kids. The classes will be a bit more traditional than “art camp” but they will still be fun! She hopes to help the kids explore the different materials used in creating art and also expose them to some of the history and different styles of art.

Leanne is a former public relations and advertising professional who has always had a passion for creating art. She has been homeschooling her three children for 3, going on 4 years now. During the past 2 years, she has created and maintained the FCTH website and was a member of the FCTH board. She has been teaching the FCTH Coop art classes for 2 years and was also a contracted artist for How Great Your Art in 2008. She has over 16 years of experience working with children in summer camps, after-school programs, church programs and more.

Classes will be held in 6 week increments. The first two terms will cover drawing and painting. You may sign up for the entire 6 week term or you may choose which sessions you would like to attend. Please note, individual sessions are slightly higher in cost than the 6 week package. Winter/Spring terms will be announced later in the Fall.

In Leanne's words, "I am excited to continue to host classes in our home and explore art with our children. I feel it is God’s gift to me and I love to share it with others." Email Leanne Kirksey with your questions and to register.


Fall Schedule and Fees
*All supplies will be provided. A $10 supply fee has been built into the price of the drawing class and a $15 supply fee has been built into the price of the painting class.

Exploring Different Drawing Media
Students will explore different media used by artists to create sketches and renderings.
Fee: $15 per individual session OR $70 for all 6 weeks
Classes: Tuesdays 9/8-10/13
Ages 6-11 1:00-2:00 p.m. Ages 11+ 2:30-3:30 p.m.

Week 1 9/8
Drawing and Shading: Graphite Pencil

Week 2 9/15
Drawing and Shading: Ink Pen

Week 3 9/22
Drawing and Shading: Charcoal

Week 4 9/29
Drawing, Shading and Blending: Colored Pencil

Week 5 10/6
Drawing and Blending: Chalk Pastels

Week 6 10/13
Drawing and Blending: Oil Pastels


Exploring Different Painting Media
Students will explore different media used by artists to create paintings.
Fee: $18 per individual session OR $75 for all 6 weeks
Classes: Tuesdays 10/20-11/24
Ages 6-10 1:00-2:00 p.m. Ages 10+ 2:30-3:30 p.m.


Week 1 10/20
Watercolor pencils

Week 2 10/27
Watercolor

Week 3 11/3
Fresco

Week 4 11/10
Acrylic Paint

Week 5 11/17
Oil

Week 6 11/24
Egg Tempera

Sunday, August 9, 2009

Perseid Meteor Shower

Be sure to look up at the night sky between Monday, August 10 and Friday August 14, 2009. The peak night for the famous Perseid Meteor Shower will be late at night on Wednesday, August 12 until dawn of August 13. This meteor shower received its name because the point in which it appears to come from lies in the constellation Perseus.

According to the Classical Astronomy website and Wikipedia,
meteor showers are formed of a dust trail left behind from the tail of a comet as it circles around the Sun. The showers are only formed when the orbit of the Earth passes through the meteor stream. The Perseid meteors are formed of the remains of Comet Swift-Tuttle, which circles the Sun every 135 years.

The earliest record of the Perseid's was by the Chinese in 36 AD. For more historical data on the Perseid meteor shower, visit Gary Kronk's meteor site.

As always, it is best to view the night sky away from streetlights in rural skies, however you should be able to catch a glimpse of a fair number of meteors in the city. The best time to observe is in the dark hours before sunrise, about 4:00 AM.

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Teacher Appreciation

It is always nice to be appreciated and especially nice when it includes saving money! Office Depot and Office Max in Panama City are having Teacher Appreciation days this month.

Office Max will have Teacher Appreciation Day on August 9. They are giving away free reusable bags and 15% off all that you can fit inside! You must have a MaxPerks card for teachers to receive this discount, but it is easy to receive one. Just stop by the store and fill out the paperwork. It is well worth the time!

Office Depot's Teacher Appreciation Week is August 9-15. They are offering 10% off qualifying in-store purchases all week. They end the week up with a Teacher Appreciation Breakfast on August 15 from 9 to 11 A.M. Stop by to receive a free breakfast, giveaways, and bonus Rewards. To be able to join in all the savings you must have a Star Teachers card. Ask to sign up for it in store!

Friday, July 17, 2009

Aristocrats Play


This morning my children and I attended Disney's, The Aristocrats, presented by Summer Stock Theater Camp and directed by Bruce Taws. It was a real treat! There were many talented performers, several of which are homeshoolers. The program lasted a little over an hour and was jammed packed with songs and action. I highly recommend taking the time to enjoy this play with your family!

The performances are held at Arnold High School in the auditorium. There is one more performance Saturday, July 18th at 7:00pm.

Helen Blackburn Auditorium
Arnold High School
550 Alf Coleman Road (off Back Beach Road)
Panama City Beach

Tickets are available 30 minutes before each show. All seats $10 / $5 for evening shows. Please pay at the door. Toddlers are free.

Homeschooling Parents Open House

Open to all homeschoolers!
Monday, August 10th, 6-8 pm
1st Assembly of God Church, Ministry Center
1701 N East Ave
Panama City, FL 32405

Special Speakers: Ron McCurdy with FPEA and our own Helen Holmes
You won't want to miss this informative night covering the topics below. We will also have free catalogs from many different companies, tables for local vendors, and light snacks! Plan now to attend this open house for all homeschoolers in our area. Pass the word along as well! Contact
Leigh Fuller with any questions (leigh@fcthpc.com).

Main Speaker: Ron McCurdy, FPEA (FL Parent Educators’ Assoc.) Representative
· Laws, resources (i.e. FPEA, HSLDA, umbrella, local support groups) and the value OR pros and cons of each
· Basic requirements of the law
· Parent's responsibility of schooling their own student & how the average husband can get involved in homeschooling and supporting his wife
· Local, state, and national support for homeschooling
· How homeschool families can get involved in local politics and change America

2nd Speaker:
Helen Holmes
· Comparison of various curriculum styles (traditional textbook, unit study, classical, computerized, eclectic, etc.)
· How to plan a curriculum
· Setting realistic goals and priorities
· Homeschooling high school

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Summer Dance Camp

First-Covenant dancers are having their annual summer dance camp. This is a great opportunity to "step up" your dance skills while having a great time. Dancers will take three classes each day. Instructors will be Covenant's dance faculty and guest teachers.


You may e-mail your reservation to Karen Napier at bay855@mchsi.com.


Who: Students who are entering 3rd grade, through high school
Where: Covenant's studio at First Presbyterian Church
What time? 5:00-8:00 PM.
Fee: $75.00 for the entire week, plus a $10.00 registration fee.


Bottled water will be provided. Join them for a great week of teaching, learning and dancing!


To speak with Karen, call 271-2061

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Curriculum Reviews


Summer time is when many of us homeschooling parents spend countless hours making goals, creating lesson plans and deciding what curriculum changes or additions we will be making in the coming school year. Bay Homeschools is trying to make it a little easier on you by providing product reviews for home school material. Several homeschooling moms from different walks of life have volunteered to write down their thoughts and experiences with material that has worked (or hasn't worked!) for them. The reviews will be added to the site as they are written. If you don't see a review that you would really like information about, contact us and we will do our best to post one. Visit our reviews here!

Sunday, June 7, 2009

Summer Ballet



Panama City has a few summer options for all aspiring ballerinas.



Covenant Christian School
Pre-school dance camp on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, June 22-26 from 9:00-11:30 A.M.
The cost is $35.
The children will participate in Ballet, Snack, Tumbling, Pretending, Dress-up & MORE!!
They will meet at the Covenant location
2350 Frankford Ave
Please email covenantballet@hotmail.com to find out how to reserve your dancer a spot!!

2009 Summer Classes held at First Presbyterian
Classes will be held on Thursdays. They begin the first week of June and end the last week of July.
Room 1:
  • 3:30 - 4:15
    jazz grades 1 - 2
  • 4:15 - 5:00
    ballet grades 1 - 2
  • 5:00 - 5:45
    lyrical
    middle & high school
  • 5:45 - 6:30
    jazz
    middle & high school

Room 2:

  • 3:30 - 4:30
    intensive ballet grades 3 - 6
  • 4:30 - 5:30
    jazz grades 3 - 6
  • 5:30 - 6:30
    advanced lyrical
    competition girls
  • 6:30 - 7:30
    advanced jazz
    competition girls


45 minute class fees:
$30/month 1 class
$45/month 2 classes
60 minute class fees:
$35/month 1 class
$55/month 2 classes
$10 Registration fee will be credited toward July tuition.
To register email covenantballet@hotmail.com or call Monica at (850)303-4519


The Willis Conservatory of Classical Ballet is offering a 10-day program Monday through Friday, June 15 thru June 26.
PRE- BALLET: The lessons focus on developing locomotor and non-locomotor skills, musicality, and rhythm, while introducing basic ballet movements, pantomime and expanding the student’s imagination. Three classes available:

  • 1:00 - 1:45 PM for ages 3-4

  • 1:45 - 2:30 PM for ages 5-6

  • 2:30 - 3:30 PM for ages 6-9
NON-ACADEMIC/ADULT:

  • 2:00 - 4:00 PM for ages 9 1/2 to Adult
PROFESSIONAL ACADEMIC:

  • 4:00 - 6:00 PM for ages 9 1/2 to Adult
CLASS SIZE: This Summer Program is on a first come first serve basis. :

  • Creative Movement - 15 spots in each class available
  • Non-Professional New - 15 spots in each class available Professional - Audition Required - class size determined by Dr. Peggy Willis-Aarnio. .
COST: Registration Fee - $35.00 All Students - This Registration Fee also applies to the 2009-2010 Academic Year. For those taking Summer and paying the Registration Fee, it will be applied to Fall enrollment.

Program Fees:

  • Pre-Ballet - $120.00 Non-Professional - $180.00
  • Professional Existing: $240.00
Sign up forms are available in the CCB office. Please see Miss Arleen for details.
Peggy Willis-Aarnio
Director 7702 McElvey Rd.
Panama City Beach, FL 32407
(850) 236-1555
You can visit their website at http://www.willisballet.com/.

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

Local Art Camp

Leanne Kirksey is a local homeschooling mom that is offering a once a week Art Camp in her home during the summer for children ages 6-12. The camp will run 9-11 a.m. on Tuesdays and will be open to up to 15 kids each week. You may sign up for as little or as many Tuesdays as you would like. She will need a minimum of 5 kids to hold the camp each session to cover costs of materials.


Activities will include 1-2 art projects at each session plus a snack time and art stations as time allows. The pictures included are just a few photos of projects she is working on for the camp.

The cost is $10 per child per session. Children should be ages 6-12 (finished K thru 6) to stay without mom or dad. Children ages 4-5 are welcome with an adult but will need help. Parents are welcome to stay with older children if so desired.


Tentative Schedule for June:

June 2- Paper Mache Lantern

June 9- Bean Mosaic

June 16- Batik Hanging

June 23- Acrylic Painting on Canvas

June 30- Watercolor and Oil Pastel painting


If you are interested in signing up your child for the camp, please contact Leanne at leannekirksey@comcast.net with the names and ages of your children and what sessions you are interested in. She will fill spots on a first-come, first-served basis. If she has enough interest, she may open up a second day each week to accommodate.


Monday, May 25, 2009

Ultimate Homeschool Expo 2009



Cindy Rushton is once again offering her annual Ultimate Homeschool Expo resource library! Actually, she is so "pumped" that she has just shared a sneak peek into her Membership Site.

One of the neat things about the Ultimate Homeschool Expo is that everything is ONLINE. It is more than a convention--it is the ULTIMATE homeschool resource library.

With every online event that Cindy plans, she builds a private, exclusive Membership Site that includes everything from the UHSE in one place--it has audios (from all of the sessions and from the bonus gifts that her speakers give to us), ebooks, complete unit study guides, articles, printable notebooking pages, cookbooks, on and on. I can't believe all of the things that we receive for only $39.95. It is truly ULTIMATE!

Anyway, back to the reason that I am sharing with you...

Cindy just sent me permission to give you a sampler of one of her free gifts that is included on the Membership Site. I am so excited to give it to you! It is a audio and ebook set that she actually sells on her website, but she is giving away on the Membership Site.

A Quick Start for Notebooking Mini-Set!

Need ideas for encouraging your young writers and QUICK? Ready for a FUN way to encourage your most reluctant writer to write AND like it??? This fun-filled, hands-on workshop is one that you simply CANNOT miss!! Cindy Rushton, who has become known through the years as THE BINDER QUEEN, uses Notebooking for EVERYTHING! She will show you how to begin whether your child is a toddler or the most skeptical high schoolers. This workshop is sure to light a fire that will equip YOU to help your children deepen their studies and document learning all along the way! TOPICS FOR THIS WORKSHOP INCLUDE: Hey! Do I Have A Chance At This??; Why On Earth Notebook???; Down to the Nitty Gritty...WHAT Do I Need and HOW Do I Do It?; Step-by-Step Through Notebooking; Scrapbooking! YES! You CAN Have Fun Homeschooling; Hey? What is Legal? What All Goes Into A Notebook???; Developing FUN Studies That Teach and Inspire!!; Copywork...Answers to ALL of Your Questions; Taking the Writer From Reluctant to Researching; Ideas, Ideas, Ideas, There’s Gotta Be One for You; PLUS Much, Much More! PLUS! Cindy doesn't stop with the workshop, she also includes the Q/A Session after the workshop AND her handouts/samples of student notebooks. Awesome!

Let’s Try Notebooking Audio Mp3:
(Cindy's Workshop)
http://www.cindysdesktop.com/wp-content/uploads/2006/TALNotebookingPartOne.mp3

(Questions and Answers)
http://www.cindysdesktop.com/wp-content/uploads/2006/TALNotebookingPartTwo.mp3


Handouts:
http://www.cindyrushton.com/Ebooks/LetsTryNotebooking!.pdf

Samples of Student Notebooks:
http://www.cindyrushton.com/Ebooks/SamplesofStudentNotebooks.pdf


Isn't that FUN?

You know the saying that a picture captures a thousand words,well...what about a a gift like this??? And, just think...this is only ONE of the awesome gifts included on the Membership Site. There are hundreds more!

Take my word for it, you will WANT a ticket to this event and access to all of the wonderful resources. Grab your ticket here:


http://www.bayhomeschools.com/uhse09.html


Friday, May 22, 2009

Preparing a Portfolio

It's the end of the school year and time for many of us home schoolers to make an appointment with a certified teacher to have our children evaluated. If this is your first time or even if you are a seasoned homeschooler, you can get some tips and ideas about preparing your portfolio on our website. We also have a list of local teachers that will be glad to give you an evaluation.

Summer is a great time to do some lesson planning and goal organizing for the upcoming year. If you are looking for help in organizing your school year, check out the following.


Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Etiquette Classes

Kari Kremin is a certified etiquette instructor. She is offering 3 classes, each lasting 3 weeks, of full etiquette training. The classes will meet one time per week for 2-2 1/2 hours with a snack provided. Class will run from 10-12 or 1-3, depending on the time that is best for those who sign up. Classes will be either on Mondays or Tuesdays. Each course will cost $35 per child. This includes their snack at each meeting. These are complete classes on each subject, split into 3 separate courses outlined below. The children will receive a completion certificate at the end of each course. Please see the courses outlined below along with the dates they will be offered. These will be a held at Kari's house on the beach and are on a first-come basis. Parents are not required to stay during the classes. She lives near Pier Park and Frank Brown Park, so what a great time for Mom to go shopping, have coffee, or just go relax at the park! Email Kari to enroll or with any questions. She is also willing to have a class specifically for teens if there is enough interest. Email if interested.

Class One: First Impressions & Communication June 8-26 (meeting once per week for 2hrs per meeting)
Introducing Yourself to Others; Handshakes; The Art of Conversation; Talking on the Telephone; Email Etiquette; Thank You Notes; Invitations; Courtesy in Public Places

Class Two: Let's Eat June 29-July 17 (meeting once per week for 2hrs per meeting)
How To Properly Set A Table; Use of Each Utensil; How to Eat Certain Foods; Table Manners; Table Talk; Restaurant Ordering; Buffet Dining

Class Three: Visual Poise & Styling and Grooming July 20-Aug 8 (meeting once per week for 2hrs per meeting)
Good Posture; How To Stand; Proper Sitting Positions; The Graceful Walk; Pivoting; Smile Confidence; Skin, Hair and Hand Care; Secrets of Dressing