Homeschool HUB News Update--February 3
Homeschool HUB phone: 269-240-6094
email: homeschoolhub@yahoo.com website: www.hshub.org
Editor: Andrea Bikfalvy
The information below is offered to you as a service. Please research and decide for yourself the value to your family. The Homeschool HUB does not endorse any programs or services other than those offered by the Homeschool HUB.
Send information to be added to the update no later than the Thursday before the week you want it to appear: homeschoolhub@yahoo.com
To subscribe to this newsletter, go to http://groups.yahoo.com/group/HUBnewsletter/ OR send an email to the following address: HUBnewsletter-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
Yes, you are welcome to forward the newsletter to anyone who might be interested! :-)
ON THE CALENDAR:
Details for the following events are on the calendar at: www.calendar.yahoo.com/homeschoolhub
February 6 Club BLUE 7 pm Martin's Cafe, Niles
February 7--Homeschool Hangout at Clay Church Firehouse Youth Center 2-3:30
February 7--Homeschool Graduation Ceremony meeting 6:30 Calvary Baptist Church, South Bend
February 9--HUB Board of Directors Meeting, 7 pm at the Niles Police Complex
February 10--Bowling at Strikes and Spares, 1:00-3:00, $5/pp
February 17--Homeschool Skate at USA Skate 1:00-3:00, $3/pp including skate rental.
GENERAL INTEREST
G1) Free college tuition!!
G2) Bridge Design Contest--free software
G3) Free Educational Stuff from NASA
G4) Six Degrees of Freerice
G5) FREE Video Lecture on Amazing Thin-Shell Structures
G1) Free college tuition!!
Antioch College, in Yellow Springs, Ohio, is reopening. They are offering full tuition scholarships to all admitted students for the next three incoming freshman classes. There are also income based scholarships to help with the approximately $8,600 for room and board. Deadline to apply is Feb 15. Here is the link to an article that tells abou it: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-505145_162-57366996/how-to-get-a-$106000-college-education-for-free/
Here is a link to the college's web site: http://antiochcollege.org/news/archive/3523.html
G2) Bridge Design Contest--free software
This is a fun virtual bridge design contest for 6-7th graders. This year has a fun Army vs Navy twist. I don't know if homeschoolers are allowed to participate, but they were in previous years. In any case, the software is for for anyone to download and play around with.
http://bridgecontest.usma.edu/armynavy.htm
G3) Free Educational Stuff from NASA
NASA offers a lot of stuff for free. Here is the list of the latest. It looks like some cool stuff!
New Space Science Educational Materials Available at NASA.gov
The Educational Materials section of NASA's Web site offers classroom activities, educator guides, posters and other types of resources that are available for use in the classroom. Materials are listed by type, grade level and subject. The following space science-related items are now available for downloading.
Comet Mystery Boxes -- Grades K-8
Introduce students to the physical characteristics of comets by using a tactile learning experience. Using only their hands, students reach into a series of boxes and feel the variety of materials and structures within. Each box contains an object that represents a quality of comets.
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/topnav/materials/listbytype/Comet_Mystery_Boxes.html
A Dusty Dilemma -- Grades 8-10
In this lesson, students learn the concepts of averages, standard deviation from the mean, and error analysis. Students explore the concept of standard deviation from the mean before using data from the Student Dust Counter, an instrument aboard the NASA New Horizons mission to Pluto. This data is used to determine the issues associated with taking data, including error and noise. Questions are deliberately open-ended to encourage exploration.
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/topnav/materials/listbytype/Dusty_Dilemma.html
Signals and Noise Ratio -- Grades 6-8
Students are introduced to the terms "signal" and "noise" in the context of spacecraft communication. This hands-on activity includes an online interactive to explore the Signal-to-Noise Ratio, a fundamental concept in spacecraft communication. The lesson's pencil-and-paper component addresses relevant topics such as proportions and ratios.
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/topnav/materials/listbytype/Signals_and_Noise_Ratio.html
Cosmic Ray Telescope for the Effects of Radiation (CRaTER) Educational Kit -- Grades 6-8
The Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter is a spacecraft orbiting the moon. The primary instrument on LRO for analyzing the moon's radiation environment is the Cosmic Ray Telescope for the Effects of Radiation, or CRaTER. This educator guide includes lessons to introduce to students to cosmic rays and their effects on humans.
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/topnav/materials/listbytype/CRaTER.html
Earth Calling… Activity from New Horizons -- Grades 6-8
Some spacecraft return to Earth with valuable data as part of their cargo, but all require some periodic remote communications as they travel. And for those spacecraft that do not return to Earth, the communication system is the only link to the valuable data collected during its journey. In this activity, students simulate spacecraft radio communication concepts, including the speed of light and the time-delay for signals sent to and from spacecraft.
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/topnav/materials/listbytype/Earth_Calling.html
Star-forming Nebula NGC 3603 Lithograph and In Search of Stellar Evolution Education Activity -- Grades 11-12
Some of the heftiest known stars in the universe reside in the nebula NGC 3603, a large gas cloud in the Milky Way galaxy. The image of the nebula is on the first page of the lithograph and background information is on the second page. The lithograph includes a Level One Inquiry activity entitled "In Search of ... Stellar Evolution" in which students research how stars form.
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/topnav/materials/listbytype/Star-forming_Nebula.html
G3) Six degrees of Freerice
I will be setting up a group on February 6 for those who want to join in (planned name: Freerice6_HomeschoolersUnited) Or start your own group. Play the game and companies donate rice to hungry people.
It's official -- Freerice has over 1 million members! Think that's awesome? Then think about this: if every registered Freerice member recruited another six members, our online movement to end hunger would exponentially explode.
That's why we're excited to announce "6 Degrees of Freerice" -- the theme for our inaugural World Freerice Week from February 6 - 11. You already know the difference you make by playing Freerice. Now, we need you to help get your friends, family and community involved too. Are you up to the challenge?
Check out www.freerice.com/freerice6 to find out what we have planned. The first step is simple -- take the pledge to participate!
You probably don't need another incentive than helping to fight hunger and getting smarter. But just in case, here are a few more reasons to get involved:
We'll give you great avatars and cover photos to "freericefy" your Facebook and Twitter pages.
Prizes will be awarded to: the group founder with the most members, the group founder with the most rice earned, and the top Freericer with the most rice earned individually.
Sound good? We hope so. To take part in the very first World Freerice Week, sign up now!
Marcela
Freerice Team
World Food Programme
G5) FREE Video Lecture on Amazing Thin-Shell Structures
http://www.thegreatcourses.com/tgc/special/experiencing-hubble.aspx
Arguably, no scientific instrument in history has had a larger impact on astronomy than the Hubble Space Telescope. So what makes it the most sought-after instrument for observing the secrets of the stars above our heads? How does it even work? And what advantages does it have over more traditional, ground-based observatories? In thanks for being our customer, here is a free video lecture: Inside the Hubble Space Telescope, delivered by Dr. David M. Meyer.
Telescopes like Hubble have been invaluable in offering astronomers and cosmologists breathtaking images of everything from nearby planets and stars to distant nebulae and galaxies. The primary rationale behind this iconic space telescope was the desire to launch a large telescope into Earth's orbit, with the power to routinely image the cosmos with a resolving power more than 10 times greater than that of the largest ground-based optical telescope. But it could only have been built with a solid understanding of electromagnetic radiation and optics—as well as trial-and-error tests using powerful mirrors and large solar panels.
Dr. Meyer is Professor of Physics and Astronomy at Northwestern University, where he has taught for more than 20 years. He also directs the Dearborn Observatory and codirects the Center for Interdisciplinary Exploration and Research in Astrophysics at Northwestern, where much of his work involves the Hubble Space Telescope. Professor Meyer's awards include the Charles Deering McCormick Professorship of Teaching Excellence—Northwestern's highest teaching honor.
Watch Inside the Hubble Space Telescope between now and Thursday, February 9, to go behind the scenes of one of the most revolutionary instruments in modern astronomy!
MICHIANA EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES
1) Political Campaign/Free Civics Classes for Teens
2) Club BLUE Homeschool Meeting
3) Order Trees for Spring Planting
4) Great Program for High-schoolers Interested in Health Careers
5) Theatre for Children and Young Adults Classes
6) Bethel College Hosts Community Blood Drive
7) IOWA/ITBS Testing Information and Registration
8) Bethel's Fifth Annual Juried Student Art Exhibit
9) Fun Fernwood Events
10) Science Alive!
11) Five Pines Tubing Day
12) Volunteer Opportunities
1) Political Campaign/Free Civics Classes for Teens
Attached is a flyer detailing a non partisan learning opportunity. Detailed are classes on government, campaigns, and leadership as well as a host of other important subjects. All classes will be taught by a teacher experienced in the field they speak on and be followed by time practically applying what they have learned in a hands on environment.
2) Club BLUE Homeschool Meeting
There are a few Homeschool moms that get together on the first Monday of the month at Martins at 7:00 PM. The title coined for the group is Club BLUE. The "BLUE" is an acronym for Bringing Learning to an Unprecedented Experience. February 6th will be our next meeting.
It is a group designed for the networking of parents. Whether you are a new homeschooler, former homeschooler or veteran, you are welcome. It is not designed to be exclusive in any way, so please feel free to come out and join us.
3) Order Trees for Spring Planting
This would be a fun Arbor Day project for your students - plant some trees! The trees can be ordered through St. Joseph County until the deadline of March 1st, and picked up at the fairgrounds in South Bend on April 14. The prices are very reasonable and the trees are quite small. Here is a sampling: 5 Blue Spruce trees from 16" -24" for $10; 5 Black Walnut trees from 14" - 20" for $6; 5 Sugar Maple trees from 18"- 24" for $9.10; 5 White Flowering Dogwood trees from 18" - 24" for $8.70. There is a flyer you can print off and send in to place your order here:
http://www.stjosephswcd.org/attachments/TREE_SALE_FLYER_St_Joe_County_SWCD_online_version_ADDRESS_UPDATE_11312.pdf
4) Great Program for High-schoolers Interested in Health Careers
LMC has a healthy stack of applications for the wonderful Professional Health Careers Academy offered through Berrien Resa at Lakeland in St. Joe and in Niles through Niles and Benton Harbor High Schools. Home schoolers are just as invited to participate as public school students. It's been a very successful program for students for several years.
Students are in class on Monday and Friday, and spend Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday in clinical rotations of their choice, spending time next to the health care professional, shadowing and really getting a good feel for the job. Students receive full Lakeland 5 star training, CPR and first aid certifications and quite a few college credits through LMC. It is supported by the Lakeland Foundation.
The application process is straightforward but should be completed soon. It looks as though they are due to Mona Hunter who takes care of many career program initiatives at the Berrien RESA by February 22, but need letters of recommendation etc.
Please feel free to stop by our office here at Bertrand Crossing to pick one up. Thanks.
Barbara Craig, Executive Dean,
Lake Michigan College at Bertrand Crossing
1905 Foundation Drive Niles MI 49120
1.269.695.1391 (office) 1.269.695.2795 (direct) 1.269.695.2999 (fax)
craig@lakemichigancollege.edu
5) Theatre for Children and Young Adults Classes
NEW SPRING CLASSES START FEBRUARY 2, 2012
THIS SEMESTER SPECIAL EVENT WILL BE GUEST APPEARANCE of THE "HOLLYWOOD ENDING" from Disney's Next Big Thing ON FEBRUARY 27, 2012 (limited advanced seating)
We will be working on our next upcoming production of Camp Rock in the theatre classes.
Thursdays 6-7: 30 p.m. Everyone is guaranteed a part! Sing, Act and Dance! $250 per semester. Full Stage production at the end of every semester.
Learn to write a play and follow it through to the final production! We will spend this semester writing this play and then produce it this summer! $250 per semester. Thursdays 4:00-5:00p.m
Allstar Choir:
This class will work on great popular choral arrangements with some dancing for perfomances at many different venues including some competitions! Thursdays 5:00-6:00p.m. The class fee will be $5 per class paid on a monthly basis. (This does include music materials)
Piano Classes available on Monday evenings . Classes ages from age 5-105. These will be on Monday evenings with overflow classes on Sat. mornings. Piano classes are $5 per hour class paid on a monthly basis. (This does not include music.)
Private Voice, Acting, Instrumental instruction available at reasonable rates.
Semester Classes cost may be split in half with first payment due by February 9, 2012 and the remainder to be paid no later than April 8, 2012. Lost script replacement fee will be charged at our cost plus shipping.
Theatre for Children and Young Adults
Jane Marie Burkart
574-514-4000
theatreforchildren@gmail.com
6) Bethel College Hosts Community Blood Drive
Bethel College will host a community blood drive Thursday, Feb. 9, from 10:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Goodman Gymnasium. Softball player Danielle Reilly ('13) is coordinating this event and has set a goal to receive 107 units of blood. The American Red Cross is down 93,000 units of blood in this fiscal year in comparison to last year.
"We are desperately trying to help recover some of those units that are needed in a huge way," said Reilly.
In an effort to gain donors, the American Red Cross is running a campaign called "The Need is Everyday." If sponsors [like Bethel] achieve 110 percent of their blood drive goal, the American Red Cross will recognize them in a USA Today advertisement at the end of the campaign, as well as feature them on their website.
If you have any questions about blood donation, the process or what it does for patients, visit the website or share your story on Facebook. Search for American Red Cross blood donors and join the conversation online.
To schedule a blood donation appointment, call 1.800.REDCROSS or visit www.redcrossblood.org and enter the sponsor code "pilots." The drive is open to the public.
7) IOWA/ITBS Testing Information and Registration
High scores qualify high-schoolers for homeschool honor societies. Registration due by February 18. See attached form for details.
8) Bethel's Fifth Annual Juried Student Art Exhibit
The Bethel College department of visual arts will be hosting an opening reception for its Fifth Annual Juried Student Art Exhibit on Friday, Feb. 10 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The students' artwork will be on display in the Weaver Art Gallery in the Everest-Rohrer Chapel/Fine Arts Center – Auditorium. The exhibit will run Feb. 10 to March 11, Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Local artisans will judge various two-dimensional and three-dimensional media entries. The student artists are not exclusive to the visual art majors, but span the wide array of majors that Bethel offers. Winners of first place two-dimensional, first place three-dimensional, second place two-dimensional, second place three-dimensional and best of show will be disclosed and receive cash prizes on opening night.
Jurors include Scott DeVries, Ph.D., chair for the department of modern language studies at Bethel College; Robin Rhodes, Ph.D., associate professor of ancient art history at the University of Notre Dame; and Dea Andrews, assistant to the executive director at the Colfax Cultural Center.
The event is free and open to the community. For more information, contact the department of visual arts at 574.807.7022 or visualart@BethelCollege.edu.
9) Fun Fernwood Events
Photo Contest Gallery Opening February 4 through March 25
Come enjoy the spectacular showcase of submissions to Fernwood's Second Annual Photography Contest. See the beauty of Fernwood captured through the artistic eyes of area photographers. The winners will be announced on Saturday, February 11, at 2:00 pm.
Eye of the Wolf: Isle Royale National Park Saturday, February 4, 1:00 to 2:30 pm
Jan Ferris presents a program on the flora, fauna, history, and culture of this special wilderness island National Park. A must-see if you want information on the upcoming tour, but all are welcome to attend. Fee $10 (Members $8); free with deposit for August 26-31 tour.
Tussie Mussies Workshop Saturday, February 11, 1:00-2:30 pm
Tussie mussies are tiny bouquets of fragrant leaves and flowers and are sure to delight. Victorians turned flower giving into an art form by assigning a specific meaning to each flower. Convey a special message to someone you love with a tussie mussie! Fernwood will provide all plant material and ribbon. Fee $25 (Members $20). Register by February 10.
Great Backyard Bird Count February 18
Organized by the National Audubon Society and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the Great Backyard Bird Count is an annual event to engage people from across America in citizen-science. Stop by the Nature Center to learn how to identify our common winter birds (1:00 pm) and how to feed them (3:00 pm). In between, help tally the birds at Fernwood's feeders. Free with paid Fernwood admission.
Spring Garden Symposium
Designs with Purpose: The People and Plants Behind Them
Saturday, March 24, 8:15 am to 3:30 pm
Even as the snow falls, a gardener's thoughts are never far from spring. Plan now to join us for Fernwood's annual Spring Garden Symposium as three award-winning speakers show us how they use their artistic instincts, environmental consciousness, and knowledge of great plants to create garden designs with social significance.
Janet Marinelli will take you on a whirlwind tour of the history of landscape design, explore discoveries on the frontiers of science, and show how every gardener can harness nature's power to create a sustainable landscape that helps repair the tattered web of life. Janet has written three books: Stalking the Wild Amaranth: Gardening in the Age of Extinction, Plant, and The Climate Conscious Gardener, and she is a columnist for Public Garden, the publication of the American Public Gardens Association.
Bob Hyland speaks about how well-chosen plants are the heart and soul of "good" garden design. With new plants hitting the market at record speed, how do gardeners choose wisely and develop an adventurous, sustainable personal style? Renown plantsman and garden designer Bob Hyland shares his own philosophy shaped by a long career in public gardens (including Brooklyn Botanic Garden, San Francisco Botanical Garden, and Longwood Gardens), private gardens, including Martha Stewart's, and his own unique Loomis Creek Nursery and Gardens.
With his award-winning work in botanic gardens and arboreta, landscape architect Gary Smith masterly blends artistry with sustainability. Learn some simple graphic techniques that unleash the artist within yourself, and make meaningful gardens that express the relationship between the site and your own creative spirit. Gary is an artist, landscape architect, and author, who received both a Gold Medal and Award of Distinction from the Association of Professional Landscape Designers. He released From Art to Landscape: Unleashing Creativity in Garden Design in 2010.
Bring your questions for a roundtable discussion with the speakers and Steve Bornell following the presentation. The symposium qualifies for three Michigan Master Gardener continuing education credits. Lunch is included. Sign up today! $120 (Members $100). Register by March 22.
Higgins Lake Winter Weekend February 18 through 20
Beat the winter blahs with a weekend of winter fun in Higgins Lake, Michigan. Spend two nights at the Ralph A. MacMullen Conference Center on North Higgins Lake and enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, nature study, good food, and more. Visit Hartwick Pines State Park, home of the largest stand of virgin white pines remaining in the lower peninsula. Just learning to ski? Instruction will be provided by Ron Spears, a certified top level Professional Ski Instructor of America. Call Jan Ferris for more information. $325 (Members $260). Register by February 5.
10) Science Alive!
A fun annual event with science activities and info. Science Alive! at the St. Joseph County Library in downtown South Bend on Saturday, February 4, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
11) Five Pines Tubing Day
February 17 10 am-3 pm.
They will have a place for lunch as well as the snack shop open. Cost for tubing is $6, cost for skiing is $6 and both is $9. This is a lot of fun so pray for snow!
5 Pines requires an assumption of risk form to be filled out and signed by each participant. These will be available there.
This event is open to all Homeschool families and friends.
If you have questions or would like to R.S.V.P. contact Diane Day 269-445-1900.
If you have a group and would like to pick a specific date, let me know and I will attempt to divvy up the dates to eliminate overcrowding!
12) Volunteer Opportunities
A) Who mentored you? January is National Mentoring Month and a great time to consider becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister to a 6-12 year old who needs an extra adult in his/her life. Ten hours a month is all it takes (or just five hours twice a month) to change the world of a child forever. Volunteer when it's convenient with you. Share your stories, play a game of checkers, go to a ball game together. It takes so little, and it means so much. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Berrien and Cass invites you to a life-affirming experience! Contact the Volunteer Center for more information or review the details on the web site: www.volunteerswmi.org There are many children in Berrien Cass and Van Buren Counties that are on the waiting list hoping for a mentor - both boys and girls. Consider fulfilling their wish!
B) Schools of Hope is an after-school program at Sorter Elementary School in Benton Harbor meeting 90 minutes/day, 4 days/week, staffed by teachers, a coordinator, and volunteers. Do you have one day per week where you can make a difference and share the gift of literacy as a Schools of Hope volunteer? Contact the Volunteer Center for more details.
C) If you enjoy teens, an after school program called After School Rocks! Located at Berrien Springs high school would welcome you on their volunteer team. They are open to short term volunteers that can share from their talents: cooking, travel, language, whatever or longer term volunteers to build relationships, tutor, help with homework and have fun.
Contact the Volunteer Center and together we can discover a volunteer opportunity that fits your talents and time schedule.
Debra Panozzo
Adult and family volunteer coordinator
Volunteer Center of Southwest Michigan
269-983-0912 ext 13 St. Joseph
269-683-5464 Niles
www.volunteerswmi.org
"The Volunteer Center promotes, supports and connects volunteers working to build a strong, caring community."
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LINKS TO SHARE:
Have a favorite educational, fun, or informative website? Share it with us!
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CLASSIFIEDS
Looking for a group? Join the HUB! We need you.
The HUB is a volunteer organization. Without the support and participation of homeschool families, we can't function effectively. There are several benefits of membership including a travel club and a resource library that includes things like books, games, laptops, video cameras and other items to borrow. Members receive first chance at events and classes when availability is limited. The cost of membership is only $24/year. Information about becoming a member is on the website at www.hshub.org
Have something for sale, free or trade? Advertise here!
Homeschool groups are welcome to advertise their group, too. It's free!
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LETTING IT RIDE:
Amazon.com--Please come to www.hshub.org before you shop at Amazon. You can either shop the Associate Store listed in the Menu bar or click on the "Help the Homeschool HUB - Purchase at Amazon" link just below the Menu bar. By using this link to Amazon The Homeschool HUB will earn money through Amazon's Associates program on everything you purchase. So whenever you think "Amazon" please remember your purchase can help The Homeschool HUB.
The Homeschool HUB is collecting used textbooks. Contact Diane Day: joharding_20@yahoo.com or 269-445-1900.
The Homeschool HUB is continuing to collect Campbell Soup labels, Campbell's Chunky Soup labels, Campbell's Healthy Request labels, Campbell's Select harvest, Franco-American, Pepperidge Farm, Spaghettios, Swanson, V-8 Beverages, V-8 Fusion, Prego Italian Sauces and Campbell's Food Service. Give your labels to any board member or bring them to our homeschool functions.
--AND--
We are still accepting Boxtops for education labels. You can find these on many products.
Go to Boxtops for Education.org for more info, and then SAVE SAVE SAVE those labels. Each one nets 10 cents and every 10 cents adds up. You can give them to any HUB board director or bring them to any functions that we have. Thank-you!
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DISCLAIMERS:
While the Homeschool HUB believes that these events or opportunities may be of value to home educators, announcements do not constitute an endorsement by the Homeschool HUB, or its Board of Directors. It is the responsibility of individual parents to determine the appropriateness of any event or opportunity for their children.
Participation in any event is voluntary and the participant assumes complete responsibility and liability for themselves, their family, anyone accompanying them, and their personal property.
Homeschool HUB phone: 269-240-6094
email: homeschoolhub@yahoo.com website: www.hshub.org
Editor: Andrea Bikfalvy
The information below is offered to you as a service. Please research and decide for yourself the value to your family. The Homeschool HUB does not endorse any programs or services other than those offered by the Homeschool HUB.
Send information to be added to the update no later than the Thursday before the week you want it to appear: homeschoolhub@yahoo.com
To subscribe to this newsletter, go to http://groups.yahoo.com/group/HUBnewsletter/ OR send an email to the following address: HUBnewsletter-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
Yes, you are welcome to forward the newsletter to anyone who might be interested! :-)
ON THE CALENDAR:
Details for the following events are on the calendar at: www.calendar.yahoo.com/homeschoolhub
February 6 Club BLUE 7 pm Martin's Cafe, Niles
February 7--Homeschool Hangout at Clay Church Firehouse Youth Center 2-3:30
February 7--Homeschool Graduation Ceremony meeting 6:30 Calvary Baptist Church, South Bend
February 9--HUB Board of Directors Meeting, 7 pm at the Niles Police Complex
February 10--Bowling at Strikes and Spares, 1:00-3:00, $5/pp
February 17--Homeschool Skate at USA Skate 1:00-3:00, $3/pp including skate rental.
GENERAL INTEREST
G1) Free college tuition!!
G2) Bridge Design Contest--free software
G3) Free Educational Stuff from NASA
G4) Six Degrees of Freerice
G5) FREE Video Lecture on Amazing Thin-Shell Structures
G1) Free college tuition!!
Antioch College, in Yellow Springs, Ohio, is reopening. They are offering full tuition scholarships to all admitted students for the next three incoming freshman classes. There are also income based scholarships to help with the approximately $8,600 for room and board. Deadline to apply is Feb 15. Here is the link to an article that tells abou it: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-505145_162-57366996/how-to-get-a-$106000-college-education-for-free/
Here is a link to the college's web site: http://antiochcollege.org/news/archive/3523.html
G2) Bridge Design Contest--free software
This is a fun virtual bridge design contest for 6-7th graders. This year has a fun Army vs Navy twist. I don't know if homeschoolers are allowed to participate, but they were in previous years. In any case, the software is for for anyone to download and play around with.
http://bridgecontest.usma.edu/armynavy.htm
G3) Free Educational Stuff from NASA
NASA offers a lot of stuff for free. Here is the list of the latest. It looks like some cool stuff!
New Space Science Educational Materials Available at NASA.gov
The Educational Materials section of NASA's Web site offers classroom activities, educator guides, posters and other types of resources that are available for use in the classroom. Materials are listed by type, grade level and subject. The following space science-related items are now available for downloading.
Comet Mystery Boxes -- Grades K-8
Introduce students to the physical characteristics of comets by using a tactile learning experience. Using only their hands, students reach into a series of boxes and feel the variety of materials and structures within. Each box contains an object that represents a quality of comets.
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/topnav/materials/listbytype/Comet_Mystery_Boxes.html
A Dusty Dilemma -- Grades 8-10
In this lesson, students learn the concepts of averages, standard deviation from the mean, and error analysis. Students explore the concept of standard deviation from the mean before using data from the Student Dust Counter, an instrument aboard the NASA New Horizons mission to Pluto. This data is used to determine the issues associated with taking data, including error and noise. Questions are deliberately open-ended to encourage exploration.
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/topnav/materials/listbytype/Dusty_Dilemma.html
Signals and Noise Ratio -- Grades 6-8
Students are introduced to the terms "signal" and "noise" in the context of spacecraft communication. This hands-on activity includes an online interactive to explore the Signal-to-Noise Ratio, a fundamental concept in spacecraft communication. The lesson's pencil-and-paper component addresses relevant topics such as proportions and ratios.
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/topnav/materials/listbytype/Signals_and_Noise_Ratio.html
Cosmic Ray Telescope for the Effects of Radiation (CRaTER) Educational Kit -- Grades 6-8
The Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter is a spacecraft orbiting the moon. The primary instrument on LRO for analyzing the moon's radiation environment is the Cosmic Ray Telescope for the Effects of Radiation, or CRaTER. This educator guide includes lessons to introduce to students to cosmic rays and their effects on humans.
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/topnav/materials/listbytype/CRaTER.html
Earth Calling… Activity from New Horizons -- Grades 6-8
Some spacecraft return to Earth with valuable data as part of their cargo, but all require some periodic remote communications as they travel. And for those spacecraft that do not return to Earth, the communication system is the only link to the valuable data collected during its journey. In this activity, students simulate spacecraft radio communication concepts, including the speed of light and the time-delay for signals sent to and from spacecraft.
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/topnav/materials/listbytype/Earth_Calling.html
Star-forming Nebula NGC 3603 Lithograph and In Search of Stellar Evolution Education Activity -- Grades 11-12
Some of the heftiest known stars in the universe reside in the nebula NGC 3603, a large gas cloud in the Milky Way galaxy. The image of the nebula is on the first page of the lithograph and background information is on the second page. The lithograph includes a Level One Inquiry activity entitled "In Search of ... Stellar Evolution" in which students research how stars form.
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/topnav/materials/listbytype/Star-forming_Nebula.html
G3) Six degrees of Freerice
I will be setting up a group on February 6 for those who want to join in (planned name: Freerice6_HomeschoolersUnited) Or start your own group. Play the game and companies donate rice to hungry people.
It's official -- Freerice has over 1 million members! Think that's awesome? Then think about this: if every registered Freerice member recruited another six members, our online movement to end hunger would exponentially explode.
That's why we're excited to announce "6 Degrees of Freerice" -- the theme for our inaugural World Freerice Week from February 6 - 11. You already know the difference you make by playing Freerice. Now, we need you to help get your friends, family and community involved too. Are you up to the challenge?
Check out www.freerice.com/freerice6 to find out what we have planned. The first step is simple -- take the pledge to participate!
You probably don't need another incentive than helping to fight hunger and getting smarter. But just in case, here are a few more reasons to get involved:
We'll give you great avatars and cover photos to "freericefy" your Facebook and Twitter pages.
Prizes will be awarded to: the group founder with the most members, the group founder with the most rice earned, and the top Freericer with the most rice earned individually.
Sound good? We hope so. To take part in the very first World Freerice Week, sign up now!
Marcela
Freerice Team
World Food Programme
G5) FREE Video Lecture on Amazing Thin-Shell Structures
http://www.thegreatcourses.com/tgc/special/experiencing-hubble.aspx
Arguably, no scientific instrument in history has had a larger impact on astronomy than the Hubble Space Telescope. So what makes it the most sought-after instrument for observing the secrets of the stars above our heads? How does it even work? And what advantages does it have over more traditional, ground-based observatories? In thanks for being our customer, here is a free video lecture: Inside the Hubble Space Telescope, delivered by Dr. David M. Meyer.
Telescopes like Hubble have been invaluable in offering astronomers and cosmologists breathtaking images of everything from nearby planets and stars to distant nebulae and galaxies. The primary rationale behind this iconic space telescope was the desire to launch a large telescope into Earth's orbit, with the power to routinely image the cosmos with a resolving power more than 10 times greater than that of the largest ground-based optical telescope. But it could only have been built with a solid understanding of electromagnetic radiation and optics—as well as trial-and-error tests using powerful mirrors and large solar panels.
Dr. Meyer is Professor of Physics and Astronomy at Northwestern University, where he has taught for more than 20 years. He also directs the Dearborn Observatory and codirects the Center for Interdisciplinary Exploration and Research in Astrophysics at Northwestern, where much of his work involves the Hubble Space Telescope. Professor Meyer's awards include the Charles Deering McCormick Professorship of Teaching Excellence—Northwestern's highest teaching honor.
Watch Inside the Hubble Space Telescope between now and Thursday, February 9, to go behind the scenes of one of the most revolutionary instruments in modern astronomy!
MICHIANA EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES
1) Political Campaign/Free Civics Classes for Teens
2) Club BLUE Homeschool Meeting
3) Order Trees for Spring Planting
4) Great Program for High-schoolers Interested in Health Careers
5) Theatre for Children and Young Adults Classes
6) Bethel College Hosts Community Blood Drive
7) IOWA/ITBS Testing Information and Registration
8) Bethel's Fifth Annual Juried Student Art Exhibit
9) Fun Fernwood Events
10) Science Alive!
11) Five Pines Tubing Day
12) Volunteer Opportunities
1) Political Campaign/Free Civics Classes for Teens
Attached is a flyer detailing a non partisan learning opportunity. Detailed are classes on government, campaigns, and leadership as well as a host of other important subjects. All classes will be taught by a teacher experienced in the field they speak on and be followed by time practically applying what they have learned in a hands on environment.
2) Club BLUE Homeschool Meeting
There are a few Homeschool moms that get together on the first Monday of the month at Martins at 7:00 PM. The title coined for the group is Club BLUE. The "BLUE" is an acronym for Bringing Learning to an Unprecedented Experience. February 6th will be our next meeting.
It is a group designed for the networking of parents. Whether you are a new homeschooler, former homeschooler or veteran, you are welcome. It is not designed to be exclusive in any way, so please feel free to come out and join us.
3) Order Trees for Spring Planting
This would be a fun Arbor Day project for your students - plant some trees! The trees can be ordered through St. Joseph County until the deadline of March 1st, and picked up at the fairgrounds in South Bend on April 14. The prices are very reasonable and the trees are quite small. Here is a sampling: 5 Blue Spruce trees from 16" -24" for $10; 5 Black Walnut trees from 14" - 20" for $6; 5 Sugar Maple trees from 18"- 24" for $9.10; 5 White Flowering Dogwood trees from 18" - 24" for $8.70. There is a flyer you can print off and send in to place your order here:
http://www.stjosephswcd.org/attachments/TREE_SALE_FLYER_St_Joe_County_SWCD_online_version_ADDRESS_UPDATE_11312.pdf
4) Great Program for High-schoolers Interested in Health Careers
LMC has a healthy stack of applications for the wonderful Professional Health Careers Academy offered through Berrien Resa at Lakeland in St. Joe and in Niles through Niles and Benton Harbor High Schools. Home schoolers are just as invited to participate as public school students. It's been a very successful program for students for several years.
Students are in class on Monday and Friday, and spend Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday in clinical rotations of their choice, spending time next to the health care professional, shadowing and really getting a good feel for the job. Students receive full Lakeland 5 star training, CPR and first aid certifications and quite a few college credits through LMC. It is supported by the Lakeland Foundation.
The application process is straightforward but should be completed soon. It looks as though they are due to Mona Hunter who takes care of many career program initiatives at the Berrien RESA by February 22, but need letters of recommendation etc.
Please feel free to stop by our office here at Bertrand Crossing to pick one up. Thanks.
Barbara Craig, Executive Dean,
Lake Michigan College at Bertrand Crossing
1905 Foundation Drive Niles MI 49120
1.269.695.1391 (office) 1.269.695.2795 (direct) 1.269.695.2999 (fax)
craig@lakemichigancollege.edu
5) Theatre for Children and Young Adults Classes
NEW SPRING CLASSES START FEBRUARY 2, 2012
THIS SEMESTER SPECIAL EVENT WILL BE GUEST APPEARANCE of THE "HOLLYWOOD ENDING" from Disney's Next Big Thing ON FEBRUARY 27, 2012 (limited advanced seating)
We will be working on our next upcoming production of Camp Rock in the theatre classes.
Thursdays 6-7: 30 p.m. Everyone is guaranteed a part! Sing, Act and Dance! $250 per semester. Full Stage production at the end of every semester.
Learn to write a play and follow it through to the final production! We will spend this semester writing this play and then produce it this summer! $250 per semester. Thursdays 4:00-5:00p.m
Allstar Choir:
This class will work on great popular choral arrangements with some dancing for perfomances at many different venues including some competitions! Thursdays 5:00-6:00p.m. The class fee will be $5 per class paid on a monthly basis. (This does include music materials)
Piano Classes available on Monday evenings . Classes ages from age 5-105. These will be on Monday evenings with overflow classes on Sat. mornings. Piano classes are $5 per hour class paid on a monthly basis. (This does not include music.)
Private Voice, Acting, Instrumental instruction available at reasonable rates.
Semester Classes cost may be split in half with first payment due by February 9, 2012 and the remainder to be paid no later than April 8, 2012. Lost script replacement fee will be charged at our cost plus shipping.
Theatre for Children and Young Adults
Jane Marie Burkart
574-514-4000
theatreforchildren@gmail.com
6) Bethel College Hosts Community Blood Drive
Bethel College will host a community blood drive Thursday, Feb. 9, from 10:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Goodman Gymnasium. Softball player Danielle Reilly ('13) is coordinating this event and has set a goal to receive 107 units of blood. The American Red Cross is down 93,000 units of blood in this fiscal year in comparison to last year.
"We are desperately trying to help recover some of those units that are needed in a huge way," said Reilly.
In an effort to gain donors, the American Red Cross is running a campaign called "The Need is Everyday." If sponsors [like Bethel] achieve 110 percent of their blood drive goal, the American Red Cross will recognize them in a USA Today advertisement at the end of the campaign, as well as feature them on their website.
If you have any questions about blood donation, the process or what it does for patients, visit the website or share your story on Facebook. Search for American Red Cross blood donors and join the conversation online.
To schedule a blood donation appointment, call 1.800.REDCROSS or visit www.redcrossblood.org and enter the sponsor code "pilots." The drive is open to the public.
7) IOWA/ITBS Testing Information and Registration
High scores qualify high-schoolers for homeschool honor societies. Registration due by February 18. See attached form for details.
8) Bethel's Fifth Annual Juried Student Art Exhibit
The Bethel College department of visual arts will be hosting an opening reception for its Fifth Annual Juried Student Art Exhibit on Friday, Feb. 10 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The students' artwork will be on display in the Weaver Art Gallery in the Everest-Rohrer Chapel/Fine Arts Center – Auditorium. The exhibit will run Feb. 10 to March 11, Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Local artisans will judge various two-dimensional and three-dimensional media entries. The student artists are not exclusive to the visual art majors, but span the wide array of majors that Bethel offers. Winners of first place two-dimensional, first place three-dimensional, second place two-dimensional, second place three-dimensional and best of show will be disclosed and receive cash prizes on opening night.
Jurors include Scott DeVries, Ph.D., chair for the department of modern language studies at Bethel College; Robin Rhodes, Ph.D., associate professor of ancient art history at the University of Notre Dame; and Dea Andrews, assistant to the executive director at the Colfax Cultural Center.
The event is free and open to the community. For more information, contact the department of visual arts at 574.807.7022 or visualart@BethelCollege.edu.
9) Fun Fernwood Events
Photo Contest Gallery Opening February 4 through March 25
Come enjoy the spectacular showcase of submissions to Fernwood's Second Annual Photography Contest. See the beauty of Fernwood captured through the artistic eyes of area photographers. The winners will be announced on Saturday, February 11, at 2:00 pm.
Eye of the Wolf: Isle Royale National Park Saturday, February 4, 1:00 to 2:30 pm
Jan Ferris presents a program on the flora, fauna, history, and culture of this special wilderness island National Park. A must-see if you want information on the upcoming tour, but all are welcome to attend. Fee $10 (Members $8); free with deposit for August 26-31 tour.
Tussie Mussies Workshop Saturday, February 11, 1:00-2:30 pm
Tussie mussies are tiny bouquets of fragrant leaves and flowers and are sure to delight. Victorians turned flower giving into an art form by assigning a specific meaning to each flower. Convey a special message to someone you love with a tussie mussie! Fernwood will provide all plant material and ribbon. Fee $25 (Members $20). Register by February 10.
Great Backyard Bird Count February 18
Organized by the National Audubon Society and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the Great Backyard Bird Count is an annual event to engage people from across America in citizen-science. Stop by the Nature Center to learn how to identify our common winter birds (1:00 pm) and how to feed them (3:00 pm). In between, help tally the birds at Fernwood's feeders. Free with paid Fernwood admission.
Spring Garden Symposium
Designs with Purpose: The People and Plants Behind Them
Saturday, March 24, 8:15 am to 3:30 pm
Even as the snow falls, a gardener's thoughts are never far from spring. Plan now to join us for Fernwood's annual Spring Garden Symposium as three award-winning speakers show us how they use their artistic instincts, environmental consciousness, and knowledge of great plants to create garden designs with social significance.
Janet Marinelli will take you on a whirlwind tour of the history of landscape design, explore discoveries on the frontiers of science, and show how every gardener can harness nature's power to create a sustainable landscape that helps repair the tattered web of life. Janet has written three books: Stalking the Wild Amaranth: Gardening in the Age of Extinction, Plant, and The Climate Conscious Gardener, and she is a columnist for Public Garden, the publication of the American Public Gardens Association.
Bob Hyland speaks about how well-chosen plants are the heart and soul of "good" garden design. With new plants hitting the market at record speed, how do gardeners choose wisely and develop an adventurous, sustainable personal style? Renown plantsman and garden designer Bob Hyland shares his own philosophy shaped by a long career in public gardens (including Brooklyn Botanic Garden, San Francisco Botanical Garden, and Longwood Gardens), private gardens, including Martha Stewart's, and his own unique Loomis Creek Nursery and Gardens.
With his award-winning work in botanic gardens and arboreta, landscape architect Gary Smith masterly blends artistry with sustainability. Learn some simple graphic techniques that unleash the artist within yourself, and make meaningful gardens that express the relationship between the site and your own creative spirit. Gary is an artist, landscape architect, and author, who received both a Gold Medal and Award of Distinction from the Association of Professional Landscape Designers. He released From Art to Landscape: Unleashing Creativity in Garden Design in 2010.
Bring your questions for a roundtable discussion with the speakers and Steve Bornell following the presentation. The symposium qualifies for three Michigan Master Gardener continuing education credits. Lunch is included. Sign up today! $120 (Members $100). Register by March 22.
Higgins Lake Winter Weekend February 18 through 20
Beat the winter blahs with a weekend of winter fun in Higgins Lake, Michigan. Spend two nights at the Ralph A. MacMullen Conference Center on North Higgins Lake and enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, nature study, good food, and more. Visit Hartwick Pines State Park, home of the largest stand of virgin white pines remaining in the lower peninsula. Just learning to ski? Instruction will be provided by Ron Spears, a certified top level Professional Ski Instructor of America. Call Jan Ferris for more information. $325 (Members $260). Register by February 5.
10) Science Alive!
A fun annual event with science activities and info. Science Alive! at the St. Joseph County Library in downtown South Bend on Saturday, February 4, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
11) Five Pines Tubing Day
February 17 10 am-3 pm.
They will have a place for lunch as well as the snack shop open. Cost for tubing is $6, cost for skiing is $6 and both is $9. This is a lot of fun so pray for snow!
5 Pines requires an assumption of risk form to be filled out and signed by each participant. These will be available there.
This event is open to all Homeschool families and friends.
If you have questions or would like to R.S.V.P. contact Diane Day 269-445-1900.
If you have a group and would like to pick a specific date, let me know and I will attempt to divvy up the dates to eliminate overcrowding!
12) Volunteer Opportunities
A) Who mentored you? January is National Mentoring Month and a great time to consider becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister to a 6-12 year old who needs an extra adult in his/her life. Ten hours a month is all it takes (or just five hours twice a month) to change the world of a child forever. Volunteer when it's convenient with you. Share your stories, play a game of checkers, go to a ball game together. It takes so little, and it means so much. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Berrien and Cass invites you to a life-affirming experience! Contact the Volunteer Center for more information or review the details on the web site: www.volunteerswmi.org There are many children in Berrien Cass and Van Buren Counties that are on the waiting list hoping for a mentor - both boys and girls. Consider fulfilling their wish!
B) Schools of Hope is an after-school program at Sorter Elementary School in Benton Harbor meeting 90 minutes/day, 4 days/week, staffed by teachers, a coordinator, and volunteers. Do you have one day per week where you can make a difference and share the gift of literacy as a Schools of Hope volunteer? Contact the Volunteer Center for more details.
C) If you enjoy teens, an after school program called After School Rocks! Located at Berrien Springs high school would welcome you on their volunteer team. They are open to short term volunteers that can share from their talents: cooking, travel, language, whatever or longer term volunteers to build relationships, tutor, help with homework and have fun.
Contact the Volunteer Center and together we can discover a volunteer opportunity that fits your talents and time schedule.
Debra Panozzo
Adult and family volunteer coordinator
Volunteer Center of Southwest Michigan
269-983-0912 ext 13 St. Joseph
269-683-5464 Niles
www.volunteerswmi.org
"The Volunteer Center promotes, supports and connects volunteers working to build a strong, caring community."
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LINKS TO SHARE:
Have a favorite educational, fun, or informative website? Share it with us!
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CLASSIFIEDS
Looking for a group? Join the HUB! We need you.
The HUB is a volunteer organization. Without the support and participation of homeschool families, we can't function effectively. There are several benefits of membership including a travel club and a resource library that includes things like books, games, laptops, video cameras and other items to borrow. Members receive first chance at events and classes when availability is limited. The cost of membership is only $24/year. Information about becoming a member is on the website at www.hshub.org
Have something for sale, free or trade? Advertise here!
Homeschool groups are welcome to advertise their group, too. It's free!
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LETTING IT RIDE:
Amazon.com--Please come to www.hshub.org before you shop at Amazon. You can either shop the Associate Store listed in the Menu bar or click on the "Help the Homeschool HUB - Purchase at Amazon" link just below the Menu bar. By using this link to Amazon The Homeschool HUB will earn money through Amazon's Associates program on everything you purchase. So whenever you think "Amazon" please remember your purchase can help The Homeschool HUB.
The Homeschool HUB is collecting used textbooks. Contact Diane Day: joharding_20@yahoo.com or 269-445-1900.
The Homeschool HUB is continuing to collect Campbell Soup labels, Campbell's Chunky Soup labels, Campbell's Healthy Request labels, Campbell's Select harvest, Franco-American, Pepperidge Farm, Spaghettios, Swanson, V-8 Beverages, V-8 Fusion, Prego Italian Sauces and Campbell's Food Service. Give your labels to any board member or bring them to our homeschool functions.
--AND--
We are still accepting Boxtops for education labels. You can find these on many products.
Go to Boxtops for Education.org for more info, and then SAVE SAVE SAVE those labels. Each one nets 10 cents and every 10 cents adds up. You can give them to any HUB board director or bring them to any functions that we have. Thank-you!
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DISCLAIMERS:
While the Homeschool HUB believes that these events or opportunities may be of value to home educators, announcements do not constitute an endorsement by the Homeschool HUB, or its Board of Directors. It is the responsibility of individual parents to determine the appropriateness of any event or opportunity for their children.
Participation in any event is voluntary and the participant assumes complete responsibility and liability for themselves, their family, anyone accompanying them, and their personal property.
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