Bay Homeschools

2011-09-05T17:53:00.000-07:00

The Drawing Class taught by Courtney Rits begins this week, Sept 6th (9-11am) and 8th (9-11am or 12-2pm).

There are still openings available if you are interested in enrolling your student(s).

Parents are welcome to either stay or drop off their child(ren) and have a few hours to get some things done or relax!
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Costs: $10/class (therefore $40 for a month with 4 Tues or Thurs)
$25 registration fee and $15 for your subsequent children (this helps to covers costs of supplies, copies, snacks, etc)

If you cannot make this week and want to enroll your child, we can work out catching up on the material. Each week does build on the previous, so faithful attendance is encouraged. She will be using Mona Brookes Drawing with Children which teaches realistic drawing.

Any questions, please feel free to contact Courtney at courtneyrits@yahoo.com or phone 215-8841.

2011-07-06T06:37:00.000-07:00

Discount Tickets Now Available for "Xanadu" Summer Stock Musical

Broadway Musical
"Xanadu"
presented by Summer Stock Productions

directed by Bruce Taws

This hilarious musical is a parody of the Olivia Newton John movie and contains many songs from the early '80s including "Magic", "All Over The World", "Suddenly", "I'm Alive", "Have You Never Been Mellow", and "Xanadu", to name a few.

Nominated for four Tony Awards including Best Musical, Xanadu follows the journey of a magical and beautiful Greek muse, Kira, who descends from the heavens of Mt. Olympus to Venice Beach, California in 1980 on a quest to inspire a struggling artist, Sonny, to achieve the greatest artistic creation of all time - A ROLLER DISCO! (Hey, it's 1980!) But, when Kira falls into forbidden love with the mortal Sonny, her jealous sisters take advantage of the situation and chaos abounds

This funny, roller skating, musical adventure about following your dreams despite the limitations others set for you, rolls along to the original hit score composed by pop-rock legends Jeff Lynne and John Farrar, and is based on the Universal Pictures' cult classic movie of the same title, which starred Olivia Newton-John and Gene Kelly.

It's hilarity on wheels for adults, children and anyone who has ever wanted to feel inspired, as one of Broadway's master storytellers, Douglas Carter Beane, weaves a moving, electrifying tale of endless fun that will keep you in stitches, while the original, legendary chart-topping tunes lift you out of your seat. You'll want to keep the music in your head, and XANADU in your heart, forever!

"Xanadu" (teenage performers)
Friday & Saturday, July 15 & 16 @ 7:00 p.m. -- Tickets: $10 Adults, $5 Students (Call 532-3369 for special group discounts.)

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.

Advance tickets for $5.00 (all seats) are now available from me or any of the performers in the show.

The show will last approximately 2 hours.

Several of our talented homeschoolers are involved in this production, and they will thoroughly enjoy performing for you!

A new sound system was installed in the Helen Blackburn Auditorium. It works great with no popping, squeals, or feedback! Looking forward to a wonderful show!

For more information, contact Lynn Woodrum: riley.and.lynn@knology.net

2011-07-06T06:32:00.000-07:00

Discount Tickets Now Available for Disney's "Mulan, Jr." Summer Stock Musical

Mulan, Jr.

presented by Summer Stock Productions

directed by Bruce Taws

Travel back to the legendary, story-telling days of ancient China with this action-packed stage adaptation of Disney’s "Mulan". The Huns have invaded, and it is up to the misfit Mulan and her mischievous sidekick, Mushu, to save the Emperor! Mulan JR. is a heartwarming celebration of culture, honor and a fighting spirit. The score includes favorites like “Reflection,” “Honor to Us All” and “I’ll Make a Man Out of You” and more!

"Mulan, Jr." (younger students)

Special Kids Matinee (all homeschoolers are welcome)
Thursday, July 14 @ 10:00 a.m. -- Tickets $3.00 each, Adults or Students (Free chaperone ticket with every 10 students if bringing a group.)

Thursday, July 14 @ 7:00 p.m. -- Tickets: $10 Adults, $5 Students (Call 532-3369 for special group discounts.)

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; all seats $3.00 for Special Kids Matinee on Thursday morning. Please pay at the door. Toddlers are free.

Advance tickets for $5.00 (all seats) for evening performance are now available from me or any of the performers in the show.

The show will last approximately 1-1/2 hours.

Several of our talented homeschoolers are involved in this production, and they will thoroughly enjoy performing for you!

A new sound system was installed in the Helen Blackburn Auditorium. It works great with no popping, squeals, or feedback! Looking forward to a wonderful show!

For more information, contact Lynn Woodrum: riley.and.lynn@knology.net.

2011-04-05T18:10:00.000-07:00

A Curriculum Fair!

Have you ever seen a homeschool curriculum online or in magazine that sounded interesting to you, but you weren’t quite sure how it worked? Or maybe you wanted to be able to get your hands on the teacher’s manual or student books to see if it would be right for you and your child? If that describes you, then we have great news...

We are pleased to invite you to the first ever curriculum fair hosted by FCTH !!

Who: ANYONE interested in looking at homeschool curricula - including any of your friends who may be interested in homeschooling.

What: Homeschool Curriculum Fair! A time to get your hands on books/manuals, ask questions, and discuss the pros and cons with FCTH families who are using (or have used) the curriculum

Where: First Church of the Nazarene, 3610 West 17th Street, Panama City FL

When: Monday, April 11, 2011

What time: 6PM

Here is a taste of what will be presented: Mystery of History, Life of Fred (Math), Total Language Plus, Character Quality Language Arts, Right Start Math, Switched on Schoolhouse, Teaching Textbooks, and MORE!

Classical Conversations Information Meetings

2011-01-19T08:46:00.000-08:00

We have some exciting and informative meetings scheduled for 2011. If you are interested in learning more about Classical Education and how to implement it in your home, be sure to come to one or all of our meetings to hear from experienced classical home educators. Visit our website at www.ccpcfl.com .

Monday, January 31
Join us at Heritage Bible Church from 6:00-8:00pm to learn how to teach your children literature using the classical model.

Tuesday, February 22
Join us at Heritage Bible Church from 6:00-8:00pm to learn how to teach your children math classically.

Tuesday, March 22
Join us at Heritage Bible Church from 6:00-8:00pm to learn when to introduce your child to history and how to incorporate history in your homeschool.

"Through wisdom a house is built, through understanding it is established, by knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures." Proverbs 24:3-4

Classical Conversations Open House

2011-01-19T08:30:00.000-08:00

If you would like to come experience for your self what a day at Classical Conversations Panama City is like, don't miss this opportunity! We are opening our doors for visitors March 3rd and March 10th. If you would like to join us for the day, please RSVP to Shonda Bush at ccpcmom@gmail.com. Space is limited so contact us today to insure there will be room for your family! Visit our website at www.ccpcfl.com.

Sizzling Science 2010

2010-10-25T09:31:00.000-07:00

Sizzling Science 2010 begins at 4pm on Friday, November 5th in the science quad grass area between the science and technology buildings of Gulf Coast Community College and will continue until 7pm.

The event is 100% FREE. Kids of ALL ages will be able to dissect various specimens, touch different marine organisms, and watch a chemistry magic show, just to name a few. Come be a part of the FUN and discover just how exciting science is.

“Blue Moon” Rises Over CityArts Cooperative

2010-09-21T06:19:00.000-07:00

“Blue Moon” Rises Over CityArts Cooperative In October

CityArts Cooperative Gallery Members have been humming “Blue Moon” as they get ready to host their first gallery opening in their new location on 318 Luverne Avenue in Downtown Panama City. “Blue Moon”, an artistic envisioning of all things lunar and blue, will open on Friday, October 1, 2010 and close Sunday, October 31, 2010. Locally created watercolor, acrylic, and oil paintings as well as jewelry, pottery and photography will transport visitors into a “Blue Moon” rhapsody. A Meet the Artists Reception and extended gallery hours until 8pm on Saturday, October 16, 2010 will coincide with the CityArts “Once In A Blue Moon Block Party”.
The Meet the Artists Reception will include a special selection of music to capture the ambiance of the theme, light moon snacks, refreshments and the chance to ask the artists about their work and techniques.
CityArts Gallery Members and Directors are a diverse group of artists who offer locally inspired fine art and fine crafts. Exhibiting Directors and Members include Janice Adams, Michelle Alford, Kat Benford, Jan Bennicoff, James Cross, Wynne Dawson, Mimi Eichholz, Lew Griffin, Amatulla Hasan, Caleb McKnight, Heather Parker, and Diana Pritchard. Gallery Members staff and operate the Gallery Thursday through Sunday from 11am until 6pm.
To find out more about the CityArts Gallery Members visit the CityArts website at www.cityartscooperative.com or visit on FaceBook under CityArts Cooperative. Please contact Roxanne Lourcey or Margaret Webster at CityArts directly at 850-769-0608.

Usborne Book Fair

2010-09-20T13:46:00.000-07:00

Covenant Christian School’s
Usborne Book Fair!

September 21st – 24th
8:30 am-2:30 pm
Family Night- Sept 23rd 5:30 pm-8:30pm
Location: Fellowship Hall
There will be a wide range of books to choose from. In order to provide a large range of books, this will be an ORDER ONLY book fair!

The students will visit the Usborne Book Fair and bring home a WISH LIST of their favorites. Parents, you may use this as an ORDER FORM and send payment in the following day, or visit the Book Fair and shop in person. 50% of money spent will be awarded to Covenant Christian School in the form of library bound books for the library and classrooms! All books will be ordered and delivered within 3 weeks.

You can also shop online at www.thelittlebookshelf.com and click on the “Covenant Christian School” E-fair link. Choose to have the books shipped to Covenant Christian for FREE shipping! NOTE: Parents choose carefully from the website as these books are from a secular publisher.

Book-It!

2010-08-31T06:46:00.000-07:00

Pizza Hut's Book-It! Program is still accepting enrollment. Find out more information at the website.

Classical Conversations Open House

2010-08-24T05:03:00.000-07:00

Classical Conversations of Panama City invites you to attend an Open House to see our campus in action. Our campus will be open for visitors September 9, 2010.

Please join us to observe our classes and classically trained tutors. Our Foundations classes, which are for K4-6th grade, begin at 9:00 am with a general greeting and break for classes at 9:15 through 12:00. During our morning class time we learn & review information from English Grammar, Geography, History, Latin, Science and Math and an entire history timeline from a Biblical perspective. Enjoy watching the class presentations, hands-on science experiments, and Fine Arts sessions of our Foundations programs.

Hear/observe our Essentials class in the afternoon 1:00-3:00; this is where 3rd through 6th graders participate in a grammar and writing program.

Pack a lunch and stay to hear veteran and new homeschooling moms share how CC has been a blessing to them and their children, in their family's homeschool journey.

Challenge A and B classes, which are for 7th-9th graders, run from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm with an hour break for lunch. Challenge classes are an active environment for students to practice the skills of learning in math, geography, logic, Latin, composition/literature, science and current events among others.

The Open House opportunity is for observation and to witness CC in action. Your children are welcome.
Join us to see how CC can help you provide quality, classical, Christian education for your family!
Reservations are required and space is limited, so contact me to let me know if you would like to come!

Shonda Bush
ccpcmom@gmail.com
www.ccpcfl.com

Christian Music on the Beach

2010-08-14T07:50:00.000-07:00

The best beach to see a live concert - period. Panama City Beach offers every kind of fun imaginable, while you can surround yourself with emerald waters, white sand beaches, temperate weather and have the time of your life!

So it's no wonder that Panama City Beach can bring you a one of a kind music festival featuring some of the top Christian artists. All artists, same place and same weekend. It's FREE for all visitors and residents!! August 20-22, 2010. Panama City Beach concerts are unforgettable, so don't miss out!

Visit the Panama City Beach Website for details.

Homeschooler's Karate Class

2010-08-14T07:47:00.000-07:00

Dear Homeschooling Families,
There were a few of you who were interested in a karate program at The Karate Training Center. Marty Martin, owner and instructor, has come up with some details that will solidify if we have enough interest. If you are interested, email me at ritsfam@earthlink.net. by August 18th. Once I tally the numbers of interested students, I will email the families that contact me and let them know if the class will happen or not.
The details from Marty Martin are as follows:
-Probably a Monday/Wednesday class, maybe 3:15 to 4:15
- I would like at least 12-15 kids in the class
-Thinking of common basic skills with dividing the group up for self defense techniques.
-Cost would be $60 dollars per month for a single and $95 dollars for a family
-Ages 6 to 12/13

Thank You,
Kelley Rits

Preschool Ballet Camps

2010-07-27T10:45:00.000-07:00

END OF SUMMER BLUES?? NOT SO FAST!!!!
The fun isn’t over yet!
Join us for preschool tumbling camp!!
(Both boys and girls preschool aged to completed kindergarten
are welcomed!)
Wednesday and Thursday
July 28th and 29th
9-11am
$28

Ballet camps
#1-Ages completed kindergarten to completed 3rd grades will be held Wednesday July 28th and Thursday July 29th
from 1-3pm $28
#2 Preschool Ballet Princess camp will be held Monday and Tuesday August 2nd and 3rd from 10:00 a.m.-noon $28
To receive a more detailed email and to register please email Katie at littlelambsballet@hotmail.com
774-9312

Homeschool Open House

2010-07-19T09:29:00.000-07:00

Fellowship of Christian Teaching Homes (FCTH) would like to extend an invitation to:

What: Homeschool Open House
When: Monday, August 9, 2010, from 6 to 9 pm
Where: Grace Presbyterian Church, 1415 Airport Rd, Panama City, FL 32405
Details: We will feature a Discussion Panel of veteran homeschoolers who will discuss how to teach with the demands of little ones , teaching to multiple grades, how to prevent and deal with burn out, record keeping, and how to balance school and home.

All are welcome, we hope to see you there! Send questions to event_coordinator@fcthpc.com

Classical Conversations Challenge Chat

2010-07-14T14:54:00.000-07:00

Classical Conversations invites you to come hear an informal chat on how our program and methods are helping families educate their children to walk with God and think like a Christian. Experienced home schooling parents will explain how to incorporate the tools of learning so students (and their parents) can see God in all subjects integrated together. For example, writing is not a separate subject, but a means to learn a subject. Knowledge of basic concepts is a means to understand the workings of a subject in the process of becoming wise in the thorough grasp and mastery of the subject.

You will hear an explanation of Classical Conversations' programs for middle and high school. We will cover who will most benefit from this form of home schooling and who may not. Advanced and struggling learners have seen success in Classical Conversations. Questions will be addressed, also. This will be mostly geared for those with students in these grades, but others may also attend. An RSVP is preferred, but not required. Invite your friends.

Classical Conversations exists to provide training, community, and accountability to assist home schooling families in their endeavor to raise a generation to "Know God and Make Him Known."

"Through wisdom a house is built, through understanding it is established, by knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures." Proverbs 24:3-4

Childcare not provided, but your children are welcome to come along and play nearby.

Friday, July 23rd
10:00-11:30 AM
817 Balboa Ave. Home of Evelyn Barr

RSVP: Helen Holmes hholmes40@aol.com 785-9099 OR
Evelyn Barr bunchofbarrs@comcast.net, 784-4454

Homeschooler's Karate Class

2010-07-14T06:04:00.000-07:00

Dear Fellow Homeschoolers,

Marty Martin, 8th Degree Blackbelt in American Kenpo Karate, is willing to offer afternoon classes to homeschoolers if there is enough interest. His website is karatetrainingcenter.com.

We have been with the Karate Training Center for 2 years now. Mr. Martin offers VERY reasonable family packages, (this pricing includes his kickboxing classes which my husband and I attend while our kids take karate classes) as well as individual pricing …..I don’t know if kickboxing will be offered in the afternoons, but again, if there is enough interest, he might be able to offer the kickboxing as well.

We have enjoyed the classes because of his reasonable pricing, the timeliness of the classes, respect for authority is both taught and demanded, and there is NO Eastern religious thought incorporated.

If you are interested, please email me at ritsfam@earthlink.net and put Karate in the subject line.

Thank You,
Mike and Kelley Rits

Broadway Musical Godspell, Jr.

2010-07-12T06:27:00.000-07:00

presented by Summer Stock Theatre Camp
directed by Bruce Taws

This is a shorter version of the full-length famous Broadway musical Godspell which tells the story of Jesus through the setting of the sixties. It features well-known songs such as "Day by Day", "Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord", "We Beseech Thee", and "All for the Best". This musical is appropriate for all ages and has been edited for appropriate language and content. Furthermore, it retells many of the parables of Jesus, as well as his death and resurrection: His true purpose for coming to us.

Director's Note: As a Christian, I can vouch for this show's integrity and its ability to touch lives even forty years after its debut. If anyone has concerns or questions about its message or theology, feel free to contact the director at 532-3369 or email summerstockpc@yahoo.com

"Godspell, Jr." (teenage performers)
Friday & Saturday, July 30 & 31 @ 7:00 p.m. -- Tickets: $10 Adults, $5 Students (Call 532-3369 for special group discounts.)

Special Kids Matinee (all homeschoolers are welcome)
Friday, July 30 @ 9:30 a.m. -- Tickets $3.00 each, Adults or Students (Free chaperone ticket with every 10 students if bringing a group.)

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; all seats $3.00 for Special Kids Matinee on Friday mornings. Please pay at the door. Toddlers are free.

Advance tickets for $5.00 (all seats) are now available from me or any of the performers in the show.

The show will last approximately 2 hours.

Several of our talented homeschoolers are involved in this production, and they will thoroughly enjoy performing for you!
Elizabeth Johnson, Elisse and Taylor Lathery, and Rebecca Woodrum.

For more information, contact Lynn Woodrum: riley.and.lynn@knology.net or 872-8522

Disney's Musical Aladdin, Jr.

2010-07-12T06:21:00.000-07:00

presented by Summer Stock Theatre Camp
directed by Bruce Taws

Adapted from the Disney movie with all the great songs!
"A Whole New World, "Friend Like Me", "Prince Ali", "One Jump Ahead", and more!

"Aladdin, Jr." (younger students)
Friday & Saturday, July 23 & 24 @ 7:00 p.m. -- Tickets: $10 Adults, $5 Students (Call 532-3369 for special group discounts.)

Special Kids Matinee (all homeschoolers are welcome)
Friday, July 23 @ 9:30 a.m. -- Tickets $3.00 each, Adults or Students (Free chaperone ticket with every 10 students if bringing a group.)

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; all seats $3.00 for Special Kids Matinee on Friday mornings. Please pay at the door. Toddlers are free.

Advance tickets for $5.00 (all seats) are now available from me or any of the performers in the show.

The show will last approximately 1-1/2 hours.

Several of our talented homeschoolers are involved in this production, and they will thoroughly enjoy performing for you!
Allie Rittman (Guard), Jared Sellick (Jafar), Connor Woodrum (Genie).

For more information, contact Lynn Woodrum: riley.and.lynn@knology.net or 872-8522

The Bay County Christian Youth Choir Performance

2010-06-15T07:34:00.000-07:00

The Bay County Christian Youth Choir along with the award winning composer and recording artist Eric Schrotenboer, will be at

First Presbyterian Church in downtown Panama City Homecoming Concert June 18, Friday evening at 7:00pm.

The Bay County Christian Youth Choir is a non-denominational independent youth choir, and its 31 singers come from over 12 different churches in Bay County representing many different denominations. Every year the Youth Choir goes on tour, and this year the tour will be a “Texas Tour” with seven concerts in Baton Rouge and Lafayette, Louisiana and Dallas, San Angelo, San Antonia and Kingsville, Texas. The choir is made up of students 8th through 12th grade with two alumni college members serving as singers and chaperones. The choir practices once a week and performs in local churches and other places in the community.

For its “Unity Tour” program, the choir will be focusing on biblical teachings about the Church. The Tour theme will be amplified through narratives and Bible verses that tie the songs together showing the unity all Christians have in Christ. The theme verses are Ephesians 4:1-6, and the representative songs include a variety of styles: Classical: Cantate Domino (Giuseppe Pitoni); If Ye Love Me, Keep My Commandments (Thomas Tallis); Hymns: The Church Is One Foundation; Brethren, We Have Met to Worship; Down To The River To Pray; Contemporary: Upon This Rock (Pepper Choplin); Holy Is His Name (John Michael Talbot); To Live Is Christ (Kate Wray); Revelation Song (Jennie Lee Riddle); How Great Is Your Love (Nick Robertson and Dave Clark)

Eric Schrotenboer will be featured at the concert, and he has released 6 solo piano albums, owns his own music production business (“ReCreation Studios) and is an experienced worship leader. His music has been featured in more than 40 films and commercials, including Focus on the Family’s “That the World May Know”, a teaching series shot on location throughout the middle east comprising over 30 half hour episodes; AIG’s, The Creation Museum, for which Eric produced and scored nearly all of the music for the museum’s 54 short films, and the hour-long sailing documentary, American Sailors, which aired on WGN America across the nation last summer. Other ministries that Eric has had the privilege to compose music for are Compassion International, Voice of the Martyrs, Campus Crusade, International Bible Society and Zondervan Publishing.

You can visit the Youth Choir’s web site at www.baycountychristianyouthchoir.com and listen to Eric at his web site at www.ericschrotenboer.com .

Bass Pro Shops Summer Activities

2010-06-14T06:54:00.001-07:00

Bass Pro Shops in Destin, FL is offering Free Summer Camp Workshops every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday June 5- July 11 2010. Some of the workshops they are giving are fishing basics, archery, pet safety, camping basics and much more. Visit their website at www.basspro.com for more information.

Ballet Scholarships

2010-06-14T05:41:00.000-07:00

The Willis Conservatory of Classical Ballet still has scholarships available to all area children for both their summer school beginning this Monday, June 14th and also for their Student Workshop that begins July 8th.

Inquire at CCBallet@knology.net for details.

Paul Aarnio
President of The Willis Conservatory of Classical Ballet
The Willis Ballet, 7702 McElvey Rd., Panama City Beach, FL 32408
www.willisballet.com

Kids' Fishing Clinic

2010-05-31T09:19:00.000-07:00

The annual Kids' Fishing Clinic sponsered by The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the Florida Foundation for Responsible Angling, Half Hitch Tackle and the Sport Fish Restoration Program will be Saturday, June 5, 2010 at the Panama City Marina in Downtown Panama City. Registration begins at 9 am and closes at 12pm and is free.

This event will enable young people to learn the basics of environmental stewardship, fishing ethics, angling skills and safety. In addition, environmental displays will provide participants with a unique chance to experience Florida’s marine life firsthand.

Art Camp at the Kirksey’s

2010-05-21T07:23:00.000-07:00

Leanne Kirksey, Art Instructor
1515 Blue Grass Lane
Lynn Haven
Leannekirksey@comcast.net
(850) 271-4154

Summer 2010
$15 per session
Students may attend any, one, or all of the sessions.
To reserve your spot, email or call with name of student, age and session you would like to attend.

Tuesdays
9-11 a.m. -All ages
*Some projects may be challenging for 5 and under. Parents are welcome to stay and help.

1-3 p.m. -5th grade and up
*We will do the same project as the morning session.

Wednesdays
Drawing Class
9-11 a.m. -For intermediate to advanced art students. All ages are welcome.

For the month of May:
25th- Magazine Mosaics

For the month of June:
1 Poor Mans Guilding
8 Acrylic Mixed Media Painting
15 Drywall Carving
16 Drawing Class: Everything is a Shape
22 Watercolor Lily pads
23 Drawing Class Creative Perspective
29 Masking Tape Masterpiece
30 Drawing Class Pencil Techniques

For the month of July:
6 Dot to Dot Seurat
7 Drawing Class : Shadows and shading
13 Tissue Paper Painting
14 Drawing Class: Colored pencil technique
20 Acrylic painting
21 Drawing Class: Shading with Color
27 Van Gogh Oil Pastel
28 Drawing Class: Swan in Charcoal

For the month of August:
3 Clay Head Sculpture
4 Drawing Class: Grid reproduction drawing

Classical Conversations Mock Open House

2010-05-21T06:43:00.000-07:00

Our classes are over for the summer, but you can still get a sneak peek into a day at Classical Conversations of Panama City!

Join us for a fun evening of interaction and demonstration as we highlight our Foundations, Essentials, and Challenge programs.

Date: Thursday, May 27
Time: 6:00- 8:00PM
Location: Heritage Bible Church on State Avenue

Just a few things we will be covering Thursday night:

Learn why, what and how we memorize in Foundations
Observe a condensed grammar class
Have a brief writing lesson using IEW principles
Inspect the handiwork of a few of our Challenge students as they feature geography and science.

Learn how a Classical Conversations community can help equip, encourage, and support parents in their homeschooling endeavors.

Contact Shonda Bush at ccpcmom@gmail.com with any questions.

Job Opportunity

2010-05-12T12:57:00.000-07:00

Janice and Nathan Brooks are a local homeschooling family here in Bay County. Here is an email I received from Janice regarding a wonderful job opportunity.

My husband is the owner of SouthernCat. He picked up a large contract today to do environmental cleaning in Pensacola. He is in need of workers. The job would last approximately 1-6 months and the pay is approximately $800.00 per week, all food and lodging would be paid in addition. If interested there will be a required 4 day environmental cleaning training here in Panama City next Monday through Thursday. The location and times TBA. Our company will pay for the cost of your training, but you will not be paid wages during the 4 day training. If interested please call me Janice Brooks @ 265-3123 or 867-4887. To enroll you in the training course, all paperwork and documentation will need to be completed by this Friday.

In this economy I know times are tough. This is a great opportunity to make some good money. We wanted to open it up to fellow homeschool families first.

REG’s Free Family Film Festival is Now Showing!

2010-05-12T09:20:00.000-07:00

Regency Theaters has planned a fun-filled summer of select movies for kids and parents. Regal has proudly offered this free summer fun since 1991. Oh, did we mention that it’s FREE!
Selected G or PG movies start at 10:00am every Tuesday and Wednesday during the festival. Tickets and seating are first-come, first-served and are limited to theatre capacity.
The Free Family Film Festival is safe, lots of fun and a great way for kids to spend a weekday morning in the summer. Tickets for our 2010 Free Family Film Festival are exclusively available at select theatres’ box office on the day of the show.

Regency Stadium 11
1515 W. 23rd St.
Panama City ,FL 32406
850-763-4023

06/15/2010-06/16/2010 Kit Kittredge: American Girl (G)
Hotel For Dogs (PG)
06/22/2010-06/23/2010 ARCTIC TALE (G)
Monsters Vs. Aliens (PG)
06/29/2010-06/30/2010 Tale of Despereaux (G)
Alvin And The Chipmunks Squeakquel (PG)
07/06/2010-07/07/2010 Charlotte's Web (G)
Night At The Museum II (PG)
07/13/2010-07/14/2010 Wallace and Gromit (G)
Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs (PG)
07/20/2010-07/21/2010 Polar Express (G)
Ice Age: Dawn Of The Dinosaurs (PG)
07/27/2010-07/28/2010 Curious George (G)
Planet 51 (PG)
08/03/2010-08/04/2010 Pirates Who Don't Do Anything (G)
Imagine That (PG)
08/10/2010-08/11/2010 March Of The Penguins (G)
Paul Blart: Mall Cop (PG)

Destin 3 Day Practicum Registration is Open

2010-05-07T10:24:00.000-07:00

Classical Conversations is now accepting registration for the Destin 3 Day Practicum. You can view a flyer that gives more information about this wonderful FREE opportunity to recharge yourself as a homeschool parent. I have attended a 3 day practicum each summer for the past 5 years and each year have come back with a ton of practical and helpful information, not to mention the encouragement and inspiration from other homeschooling parents. The Destin Practicum is only an hour away from us (I've traveled 6 hours to attend a practicum in the past!). The Orlando Practicum is finishing up today and they had over 500 in attendance! Don't miss this great chance to equip yourself to better teach your precious children!! To register, visit the Classical Conversations' website.

They also have available camps and care for your children. The cost of a camp is $33 and the nursery is $38. This covers the entire 3 days! These fill up quickly though!!! The Nursery and the Beginning Trigonometry Camp are already full. There is a waiting list for both of them, so contact Helen Holmes at Hholmes40@aol.com if you would like to add your child to the waiting list! You can register for these camps at the same time you register for the practicum. The camps are not drop off programs, a parent must be present at the practicum for children to attend. If you have any questions, feel free to email me, Shonda Bush, at ccpcmom@gmail.com.

Care & Camps Available:
0-2 years old: Nursery
3-5 years old: Play Camp includes crafts, art, science, snacks and fun!
6-8 years old: Geo/Draw Camp combines the fun of drawing with educational geography. This year's camp will focus on Europe and is sure to make learning enjoyable!
9-14 years old: Beginning Trigonometry. Yes your 9 year-old can learn the basics of this High School level course. Watch your student gain confidence as they learn the fundamentals of trig using the classical method of education. You will be amazed at what they can absorb and retain through this fun and educational camp.

Free Homeschool Guides

2010-05-03T10:55:00.000-07:00

3 FREE GUIDES FOR HOMESCHOOLERS

Guide to:
Field Trip Sites and Family Vacations
Colleges and Career Schools
Educational Resources

Download your free copies at:

www.homeschoolersguides.com

Also on our website: Homeschool Calendar of Events

Art Exhibits, Events, and Classes

2010-05-03T10:36:00.000-07:00

Exhibits
May 5 to May 30- Roland Hockett Exhibit at the Bay County Library, 898 West 11th St, Panama City. Opening Reception/Meet the Artist on May 11th, 6pm. M/T/W 9 to 8, Th/F/Sat 9 to 5, Sun 1 to 5

May 11 to June 11- Panama City Artists Art Exhibit at the Marina Civic Center, 8 Harrison Avenue, Downtown Panama City, (850) 763-4696. Mon-Fri 9 to 5, Sat 10 to 2

Ongoing- Art in Public Places: Art exhibits at 133 and 135 Harrison, in the Sherman Arcade on Harrison, and in the Bay County Government Center on 11th Street, Panama City. Art in Businesses- Art exhibit at the Lynn Haven Taco Bell on Hwy 77, Lynn Haven.

Through May 23- Panama City Artists 9th Annual Show and Sale at the Visual Arts Center, 19 East 4th Street. Free and open to the public. T/Th 10 to 8, W/F/S 10 to 5, Sun 1 to 5. All visitors encouraged to vote for their favorite piece in the show- voting closes Sat, May 22 at 5pm. Winner announced Sunday, May 23, 2;30pm.

Events
Tuesday, May 18, 6:30pm- Exhibit Tour at the Visual Arts Center. Meet the Artists and tour the 9th Annual Show and Sale on exhibit at the Visual Arts Center of Northwest Florida. Free and Open to the Public. Visual Arts Center- 19 East 4th Street, Downtown Panama City. Panama City Artists: 850-769-0608, info@panamacityartists.net

Sunday, May 23rd, 2 to 4pm- Afternoon with the Artists at the Visual Arts Center. Public is invited to attend the Closing Reception of the 9th Annual Show and Sale. People's Choice Winner anounced at 2:30pm, free admission.

Classes

PCA Workshops- 2nd Saturday of each month, 9am to 12noon. Subject/Instructor varies. $30 non-members. 850-769-0608, info@panamacityartists.net

Oil Painting Classes- Thursday evenings, 6:30 to 9:00, at CityArts Cooperative (318 Luverne Ave., Downtown Panama City) Instructed by PCA member, Caleb McKnight. $35 a month. smalltimek@yahoo.com, 850-769-0608

Book Arts Classes- Wednesday afternoons at the Unreal Artists Gallery- theunrealartistsgallery@yahoo.com

Acrylic Painting Workshops- 2nd Saturday and 3rd Sunday of each month, 2:30 to 5:30, 16 x 20 canvas and all supplies provided. Instructed by Heather Parker, 850-249-9295, heather@painterparker.com, www.painterparker.com

Call to Artists

2010-05-03T10:27:00.000-07:00

Call to Artists: This is a call to artists, dreamers, and creators who want to let their imaginations soar! Panama City Artists is looking for works of art from the whimsical to the serious, be it mythical creatures, flying machines, fairies, unipegs, and more—as long as it is “fantastical” and flies. Whether it takes flight in the air, outer space, or in “the beyond”—we want it to be a part of the “Flights of Fantasy” art exhibit in the Bay County Library on 11th Street from July 3rd until July 30th, 2010. “Meet the Artists” Reception TBA.
To exhibit, contact Tim Riley, trnco@knology.net or Helen Ballance, artdrama4life@yahoo.com

Call to Artists: Seeking Artists to participate in the 5th Annual Half Off Sale, Saturday, Sept 18th, 10 to 6. Hosted by Panama City Artists and CityArts Cooperative. No fee to set up, no commision on sales. Register early, space is limited. Heather Parker, 850-249-9295, heather@painterparker.com.

Visit Panama City Artists website.

Classical Conversations Information Meeting

2010-05-03T10:17:00.000-07:00

You are cordially invited to an Information Meeting to discover an exciting method of Classical Education. Our communities offer a friendly, GOD-centered, Christian environment in which to facilitate strong academic learning and offer Classical curriculum from elementary thru high school.

Our Foundations, Essentials and Challenge programs will be presented to show you how CC under girds families in the use of the classical approach to education. Learn how the 'Lost Tools of Learning' will equip your 'students' in life-long learning skills via Classical Conversations.

We extend support/accountability/encouragement/fellowship! Come & see how we can lighten your burden by modeling great Christian attributes of education.

We will be meeting in the kitchen of The Rock during the Iowa Testing for homeschoolers.

Date: Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Time: 9:15am - 11:15am
Location: The Rock, 2413 Harris Avenue

Homeschooling Through High School Workshop

2010-04-19T17:16:00.000-07:00

Choosing to homeschool through High School doesn't have to be a daunting choice! Two local homeschool support groups, Fellowship of Christian Teaching Homes (FCTH) and The Homeschooler's Friend (THF) have joined together to offer a free Homeschooling Through High School workshop. Experienced parents will share knowledge to help those transitioning into the High School realm. Don't miss this opportunity to glean wisdom, advice, and ideas from these parents who have successfully graduated homeschooled students.

The Homeschooling Through High School workshop will be held on Monday, May 3rd from 6:30 – 8:30pm at Heritage Bible Church. (Heritage is located at 3880 State Ave, Panama City, FL 32405). Childcare will not be provided. This workshop is free and is open to anyone interested in homeschooling. Advanced registration is not required.

The workshop will cover:
· High School credit requirements
· Finding curriculum/help for advanced subjects
· Preparing a transcript
· Qualifying for scholarships (including Bright Futures)
· Florida University admissions
· College application requirements
· Dual enrollment at GCCC
· ROTC involvement and application to military academies
· SAT and ACT differences, importance, and preparations

Please direct any questions to: event_coordinator@fcthpc.com

Teen Masquerade Ball

2010-04-06T06:54:00.000-07:00

The Homeschooler's Friend is sponsering a Teen Masquerade Ball Saturday, May 1, 2010.

Saturday, May 1, 2010
6:00pm - 10:00pm
Axis Venue
2379 St Andrews Blvd Panama City, FL

Dance for all Homeschool tweens and teens grade 6 and up. Teens and tweens are welcome to bring a friend (or several) that is not homeschooled. Tickets are $10 each and will go on sale in late March. There will be food, fun, music, and friends. We will have a photographer there for pictures. The dress for this event is "Semiformal to Formal," but no plunging necklines or backless dresses please. This event will be chaperoned and the music will be clean ( along with Christian artists, we will play fun dance favorites like the Cupid Shuffle, Electric slide, etc). Parents are welcome to come and help out.

Used Curriculum Sale

2010-04-06T06:36:00.000-07:00

As you wind down your year, mark your calendars now for the FCTH annual used curriculum sale – open to all homeschoolers!

Used Curriculum Sale
Thursday, May 20th 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
First Church of the Nazarene
3610 W. 17th Street, Panama City

Used curriculum sales are not only a great way to get rid of what you are not using any more and to get great deals on books and curriculum, but they are also a great opportunity to check things out and talk to others who have used them.

This used curriculum sale will be set up by family. Each family will have a table or half table to set up the books you would like to sell. Make sure each book is labeled with your name and the price. If you are not finished with a curriculum, but plan to sell it at the end of this school year, you may bring it and mark the date available. Also, be sure to bundle sets together. Remember to bring cash to pay for purchases as there will be many different sellers.

If you would like to reserve a table to sell your books/curriculum, please RSVP and advise if you need a whole table or half table, rectangle or round. This will help us know how to set-up and save a lot of time and effort. If you would like to help set up or are reserving a table, please plan to arrive at the church by 5:15 p.m.

Please RSVP to Melanie at godsgirlmelanie@gmail.com by Tuesday, May 18th.

Win an Elsie Dinsmore doll or a William Wallace sword!

2010-03-23T07:07:00.000-07:00

HomeschoolWriters.com is sponsering a writing contest to encourage homeschoolers to write!

Who can enter the most writing contests this year? Enter more than any one else and you will be named Homeschool Writer of the Year, and win your choice of either an Elsie Dinsmore doll or the William Wallace Sword.

The goal is to help students see that winning a contest is not the important part-- it's entering the contest itself. That's where this competition comes in; we try to encourage the student to enter writing contests without getting discouraged that they didn't win each contest. We award recognition not for who won the most but for who entered the most. Our hope is that students will find entering contests fun, even if they don't win.

To learn more, please visit www.HomeschoolWriters.com.

Free American History DVDs for Homeschoolers

2010-03-23T06:59:00.000-07:00

The History Channel is giving away free DVDs and educational supplies of their upcoming American History program (12 hours). It's supposed to be really good and will have lots of reenactments instead of just narration.

Homeschoolers can get in on the action! Here is the link to sign up for your free copy: classroom.history.com/america-dvd/event/form.

Iowa Test of Basic Skills

2010-03-23T06:43:00.000-07:00

Iowa Test of Basic Skills (grades 1-12) Test with Helen Holmes at The Rock
Tuesday May 18 through Thursday May 20, 2010 See note below on high school dates.
Location: The Rock, 2413 N. Harris Ave. (a block behind IHOP on 23rd and Highway 231)
Tentative arrival time on Wednesday is 8:30 AM
Pick-up time is approximately 11 AM-12 Noon each day.
An email will be sent with final details.

The Iowa Test of Basic Skills (grades 1-8) and the Iowa Test of Educational Development (grades 9-11/12) will be given on May 18, 19, 20, 2010 at the Rock. Testing will be ONLY in the morning, with students to be picked up around 12 noon each of the 3 days. Any home school student is eligible to register.

!! Note this is a separate testing from Cathy Pascoe (Sue Alford) and ithinkers, which tests over 2 days elsewhere on different dates!!

This is accepted by the Bay District Schools and state of Florida as one option for your required annual evaluation. No scores will be sent to them, the scores will be sent to you. You will send in a form stating that your child has been tested.

Registration is now being accepted. Testing will be over a 3 day period only in the morning, allowing students to go home for lunch. A short break will be offered each morning. High school students will be tested over 2 days, May 18-19.

Registrations are being taken now till March 31st. I will order April 1st and cannot guarantee being able to take late registrations. Also, some grade levels may fill up.

Costs:
$43 per test if postmarked in January or February

$53 per test if postmarked in March

Send:
1--a check made out to Helen Holmes
2--a stamped (liberty bell preferred) self addressed business envelope (one envelope for up to 3 children; no 8 x 11 manilla envelopes!)
3--a 3 X 5 card with:
Child's Name AND GRADE
Parents' names and cell numbers, and email address for communication and updates.
Address
Home phone number
Reading ability: high or low or average.
Any environmental or testing needs you may be aware of.

Send registration to:
Helen Holmes
927 Huntingdon Rd.
Panama City, FL 32405

Questions may be answered by emailing Helen Holmes: hholmes40@aol.com or calling 785-9099.

Practical Homeschooling Part 2: Digging into Literature

2010-03-22T17:50:00.000-07:00

Reading is one of the joys most home school parents want to pass onto their children. We read aloud. We teach reading. We listen to our dear ones read. That I would say is one of the greatest joys of the early years! But as they mature, the joys turn to discussions of the characters, setting, plot, themes, literary structure, biblical allusions, etc. Do you know how to find these things in the literature your children are reading. How do you find good literature? What are living books? What is twaddle? What are the questions to ask my child as we read together. Will this ruin the enjoyment of reading? Is reading different in non fiction than fiction?

All home school parents are invited to come have fun together and learn the answers to some of these questions. Bring your pencil as we will look into a favorite children's story to work out how much we can find by digging into it. You never knew how much treasure was in Peter Rabbit!

Monday, March 29 from 6:00-8:00pm at Heritage Bible Church.

No RSVP needed unless you need childcare. Email hholmes40@aol.com for reservations with ages and number of children.
FREE

Sponsored by Classical Conversations of Panama City.
Information about Classical Conversations programs will be available for participants to take home or questions can be asked in the Q & A session. Materials used in our program, including literature, will be on display. No book sales will be offered on site.

Christopher Columbus’ Niña and Pinta

2010-03-19T07:12:00.000-07:00

Replicas of Christopher Columbus’ Niña and Pinta vessels sailed into the Panama City Marina on Wednesday, March 17, 2010 to set up a temporary floating museum and will stay until Monday, March 21, 2010.

The ships are touring as a sailing museum. They offer guided tours and displays for school groups and the public. Each ship has a crew of four people who will be on hand to answer questions and talk about the vessels.

This Niña was launched in 1992 and has been called by Archaeology magazine the “most historically correct Columbus replica ever built.” Of the Niña, Pinta and Santa Maria, the smaller, faster Niña was Columbus’ favorite ship, and he made most of his journeys on it. The replica Niña has sailed a half-million miles, docked in 600 ports and traveled through the Panama Canal about a dozen times. This is the fourth time the Niña has docked in Panama City.

This is the first time the sister ship Pinta has come to town. The Pinta was built 50 percent larger than the original vessel and was completed in 2005. After spending some time taking day-sailing trips in the Caribbean, the Pinta joined the Niña to tour the country and offer a historical perspective.

The two ships — both built in Brazil — are run by the Columbus Foundation and give tours of the vessels to remain in operation. The vessels also periodically are used for films and documentaries, Morgan Sanger said. There currently are no plans to build a replica of the Santa Maria. To learn more about the ship visit theNina.com.

Educator Appreciation Week at Borders

2010-03-19T06:26:00.000-07:00

Educator Appreciation Week at Borders starts this Friday, March 19, 2010 and runs through Saturday March 27. During the whole week, educators will receive 30% off of their total purchases. Homeschoolers are eligible for this great savings too! Bring in you EAW card or ID cards, they can issue you an EAW card at the point of purchase.

There will also be a reception for educators on Saturday March 20 at 2pm. There will be giveaways, drawings, sampling from the cafe, and a local author.

Classical Conversations Open House

2010-02-27T07:52:00.000-08:00

Classical Conversations of Panama City invites you to attend an Open House to see our campus in action. Our campus will be open for visitors for our last 5 weeks of the school year. Choose which day will work best for you- March 4, 11, 18, 25 or April 1!

Please join us to observe our classes and classically trained tutors. We begin at 9:00 am with a general greeting and break for classes at 9:15 through 12:00. During our morning class time we learn & review information from English Grammar, Geography, History, Latin, Science and Math and an entire history timeline from a Biblical perspective. Enjoy watching the class presentations, hands-on science experiments, and Fine Arts sessions of our Foundations programs.

Hear/observe our Essentials class in the afternoon 1:00-3:00; this is where 3rd through 6th graders participate in a grammar and writing programs.

Pack a lunch and stay to hear veteran and new homeschooling moms share of how CC has been a blessing to them and their children, in their family's homeschool journey.

Challenge classes run from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm with an hour break for lunch.

The Open House opportunity is for observation and to witness CC in action. Your children are welcome.
Join us to see how CC can help you provide quality, classical, Christian education for your family!

Reservations are required, so contact Shonda Bush to let her know which day you would like to attend!

"You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown"

2010-02-24T12:00:00.000-08:00

Presented by Bay High Drama Club

"You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown" is an award-winning Broadway musical comedy based on the Peanuts comic strip by Charles Schulz.
Join the lovable and colorful Peanuts gang as they explore friendship, baseball, kite flying, book reports, choir singing, and so much more in this fast paced, lighthearted musical. It's guaranteed to please audiences of all ages!

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

Thursday -- March 18 -- 9:30 a.m. -- School Performance
Friday -- March 19 -- 6:30 p.m.
Saturday -- March 20 -- 6:30 p.m.
Sunday -- March 21 -- 2:30 p.m. matinee

Admission is FREE!

No tickets needed although any donation at the door would be appreciated :)

Teen Masquerade Ball

2010-02-23T17:00:00.000-08:00

The homeschooling answer to prom!

The Homeschooler's Friend is sponsoring a Teen Masquerade Ball May 1, 2010 from 6:00 -10:00pm. The ball is open to all homeschool teens and will be held at Joe Moody Harris Clubhouse, 2300 E 8th St, Panama City, FL 32401.

Tickets are $10 each and will go on sale in late March. There will be food, fun, music, and friends. The dress for this event is "Prom Semi-formal to Formal." If you would like to receive more information or be added to the prom email list, please contact Kari Kremin at keds02@yahoo.com.

Practical Homeschooling Workshop

2010-02-13T21:02:00.000-08:00

As homeschooling moms, we all struggle with knowing how to best educate our children. We ask questions like, what is the best math curriculum for my child, when should my child be able to read, how much time should we spend on writing, and is it possible for middle and high school students to still love reading?

Please join us as we spend a relaxed evening covering topics such as,

What curriculum and books fit best with my Charlotte Mason, Classical or Unit Studies education?

What subjects should I be teaching to my K-3rd graders and my 4th-6th graders?

Why should my child and I memorize and what should we commit to memory?

What are living books, and how will they give my child a love for learning?

How can I give my child a strong Biblical education?

Should we spend time with other homeschoolers?

What are the concepts of literature that are important?

How can I incorporate these concepts into my language arts program?

How can I save money by using the books and materials already in my home and public library?

We are homeschooling moms with a desire for homeschooling students to really love to learn and be able to tackle and excel at any subject or trade in which God calls them to serve, whether it be doctor, lawyer, politician, painter, singer, carpenter, etc. We are also the directors of the Panama City Classical Conversations Foundations, Essentials and Challenge programs. Our purpose in this workshop is to help you form a plan for how to successfully educate your children at home and to see if Classical Conversations can help you accomplish your goals. You will leave with a new vision of what your homeschool can accomplish. Come join us!

Tuesday February 23
Heritage Bible Church
6:00-8:00pm
Contact Shonda Bush at ccpcmom@gmail.com or Helen Holmes at Hholmes40@aol.com with any questions.

March 2010 Camp Victory Home School Days

2010-02-13T15:45:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, March 2, 2010 or
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
(The program is identical so choose only one day.)

Theme: Creation Classroom
Speaker: Luke Milam, Time on the Mountain Ministries

Learning about God's creation, while being in God's creation is what it is all about. We will be exploring survival skills and wild edible & medicinal plants. God made this world. Come and let's learn about Him while being in His creation!

Cost: $10 per family, pay at Camp

Schedule:
9:00-9:45 Registration
10:00-12:30 Program
12:30 Lunch
1:15 Camp Activities
3:30 Depart for Home
(This schedule is subject to minor changes.)

To Register:
Call or email your registration by Friday, February 26, 2010 to the Camp Victory office. (334) 898-7948 or campvictory@alaweb.com If you are unable to attend, please call to cancel. We try to confirm all email registrations so if you do not hear back from us, you may wish to call and confirm.

Please give the following information:
1. Your name & phone number
2. Number attending -- adults and children
3. Ages of children
4. Which day you are attending

What to Bring:
A sack lunch (Camp will have drinks available)
Comfortable clothes and shoes for outdoor activities
Notebook / pen or pencil
Spending money for Snack Shop / Gift Shop

Directions:
Please see our website -- http://www.campvictoryal.org -- for directions. Some computer search engines and GPS programs do not give accurate directions so please call if you need more details.

Camp Victory
363 Victory Circle
Samson, AL 36477
334-898-7948
http://www.campvictoryal.org
"Where Memories Are Made...Where Lives Are Changed!"

Go Play Weekday/Florida Parks

2010-02-06T13:10:00.000-08:00

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) Florida Park Service has launched a new promotion, Go Play Weekday, which allows visitors pay 75¢ admission Monday through Thursday at featured state parks during promotional months. Throughout the year, Go Play Weekday specials will highlight parks in each region of the state.

The Panhandle is the first area to be highlighted in the Go Play Weekday promotion. The six featured state parks offer bluffs, beaches, trails, rivers and lakes that provide ideal locations to hike, camp, fish, ride bicycles and enjoy the cool weather.
Parks offering entrance for 75 cents through February 25, 2010, include:
Blackwater River State Park, Holt
Camp Helen State Park, Panama City Beach
Grayton Beach State Park, Santa Rosa Beach
Falling Waters State Park, Chipley
Three Rivers State Park, Sneads
Torreya State Park, Bristol
How it works: Mention ‘Go Play Weekday’ at the ranger station to get the special price. If the park has an honor box, just write ‘Go Play Weekday’ on the envelope and put in 75¢ instead of the full fee.
Promotions will change throughout the year, so check for updates on the Florida State Parks Web site at www.FloridaStateParks.org

Classical Coversations Open House

2010-02-05T11:21:00.000-08:00

Classical Conversations of Panama City invites you to attend an Open House, February 11, 2010 to see the campus in action. Learn how a Classical Conversations community can help equip, encourage, and support parents in their homeschooling endeavors.

Please join us to observe our classes and classically trained tutors. We begin at 9:00 am with a general greeting and break for classes at 9:15 through 12:00. During our morning class time we learn & review information from English Grammar, Geography, History, Latin, Science and Math and an entire history timeline from a Biblical perspective. Enjoy watching the class presentations, hands-on science experiments, and Fine Arts sessions of our Foundations programs.

Hear/observe our Essentials class in the afternoon 1:00-3:00; this is where 3rd through 6th graders participate in a grammar and writing program.

Pack a lunch and stay to hear veteran and new homeschooling moms share of how CC has been a blessing to them and their children, in their family's homeschool journey.

Challenge classes run from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm with an hour break for lunch.

Reservations are required! Questions will be gladly answered at Information Meetings or via email or phone. The Open House opportunity is for observation and to witness CC in action. Your children are welcome.
Join us to see how CC can help you provide quality, classical, Christian education for your family!

Foundations and Essentials Director : Shonda Bush, ccpcmom@gmail.com
Challenge Directors: Helen Holmes, Hholmes40@aol.com and Johnny Gonzales, jgonzales96@gmail.com

Homeschooling 101

2010-02-01T17:25:00.000-08:00

FCTH (Fellowship of Christian Teaching Homes) and THF (The Homeschooler's Friend) are teaming up to offer the first session, in a series of homeschooling orientations.

Date: Thursday, February 18
Time: 6:30pm-8:30pm (childcare will not be provided for this session)
Location: Heritage Bible Church, 3380 State Ave, Panama City, FL

Speaker Details: Homeschooling 101-

• Helen Holmes is a certified Florida teacher, evaluator, and a veteran homeschooler. Helen will be discussing topics such as: how to begin homeschooling, Florida state homeschooling laws, curriculum styles, organization, and finding support.

• Brenda Dickinson is the lobbyist for the Home Education Foundation (HEF) and a vigilant defender of Florida home education rights. Brenda will speak on Florida Virtual School options and umbrella schools. Brenda will also be available following the orientation for any other questions regarding homeschoolers rights.

Separate Session: Politics of Homeschooling- Brenda Dickinson will also hold a separate session from 2:00pm-3:30pm (at Heritage Bible Church on Feb.18th) to discuss the political threats that are eroding our parental rights to homeschool and how we can ensure that we do not lose these rights. Childcare will be provided for this session only.

RSVPs: Not necessary, both sessions are open to the public and would be beneficial to all homeschoolers or those considering homeschooling. This is not a mom's only event, fathers and families are welcome to come. Childcare will not be provided for the evening session, please make your own arrangements if your child is too young to sit with you quietly.

Contact: Orientation@fcthpc.com with any questions.

We hope to see you there!

Iowa Test of Basic Skills

2010-01-30T07:19:00.000-08:00

Iowa Test of Basic Skills (grades 1-12) Test with Helen Holmes at the Rock
Tuesday May 18 through Thursday May 20, 2010 See note below on high school dates.
Location: The Rock, 2413 N. Harris Ave. (a block behind IHOP on 23rd and Highway 231)
Tentative arrival time on Wednesday is 8:30 AM
Pick-up time is approximately 11 AM-12 Noon each day.

The Iowa Test of Basic Skills (grades 1-8) and the Iowa Test of Educational Development (grades 9-11/12) will be given on May 18, 19, 20, 2010 at the Rock. Testing will be ONLY in the morning, with students to be picked up around 12 noon each of the 3 days. Any home school student is eligible to register.

!! Note this is a separate testing from Cathy Pascoe (Sue Alford) and ithinkers, which tests over 2 days elsewhere on different dates!!

This is accepted by the Bay District Schools and state of Florida as one option for your required annual evaluation. No scores will be sent to them, the scores will be sent to you. You will send in a form stating that your child has been tested.

Registration is now being accepted. Testing will be over a 3 day period only in the morning, allowing students to go home for lunch. A short break will be offered each morning. High school students will be tested over 2 days, May 18-19.

Registrations are being taken now till March 31st. I will order April 1st and cannot guarantee being able to take late registrations. Also, some grade levels may fill up.

Costs:
$43 per test if postmarked in January or February

$53 per test if postmarked in March

Send:
1--a check made out to Helen Holmes
2--a stamped (liberty bell preferred) self addressed business envelope (one envelope for up to 3 children; no 8 x 11 manilla envelopes!)
3--a 3 X 5 card with:
Child's Name
Parents' names and cell numbers, and email address for communication and updates.
Address
Home phone number
Reading ability: high or low or average.
Any environmental or testing needs you may be aware of.

Send registration to:
Helen Holmes
927 Huntingdon Rd.
Panama City, FL 32405

Questions may be answered by emailing Helen Holmes: hholmes40@aol.com or calling 785-9099.

Baseball Registrations

2010-01-26T08:21:00.000-08:00

Hiland Park Baseball sign ups: January 27, 30, February 3, 6
See Hiland Park Baseball's website for more information.

R.L Turner Baseball registration January 30 from 10am- 3pm at Chapman Park, Rollins Avenue and Cornell Drive, Panama City, Florida, 32405.
Visit their website.

The City of Lynn Haven Baseball & Softball Registrations:
Please register at the Community Center at the end of Hilltop Lane until January 30th. Register children ages 5-18 for T-ball, Softball or Baseball. The season begins March 15 and will end around May 15. Tournaments may extend the season slightly for the older children.

-Monday -Friday 7:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.
-Saturdays 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.

Lynn Haven Residents : $45.00; Non-residents $54.00 Cash or check only.

For more information, visit the City of Lynn Haven website.

Central Dixie Youth Baseball is holding registration this Saturday at Sudduth Field in the Cove. Registration is $60.00 which includes a shirt, hat, baseball insurance, trophy/medallion and umpires. All you need is a glove and batting helmet. Coaches/teams have bats and balls. Registration is between 10 and noon Saturday 23, 2010!!!! ! Ball players should be between the ages of 4 and 14.

Let's Play Ball!!!!!!

For more information, please e-mail Lee Scott at nscott0418@aol. com.

Balloon Zoo

2010-01-24T17:52:00.000-08:00

Amazing Balloon Creations Presents: A Day At the Zoo!

January 25-30, 2010

Monday- Thursday: 4PM - 9PM
Friday and Saturday: Noon - 9PM

This will be a fully viewable, to scale and beyond Balloon Zoo for people of all ages to view at there leisure. The goal is to bring the guests imaginations to life!

This event will be produced by Northwest Florida’s premier entertainers and balloon artists. Fantastic balloon animal creations and scenery will be the focus of this event and it will all be open to the public! This event will be like none other that has ever been produced in our area, so you will most certainly want to be a part of this ground breaking phenomena!

As an added plus for our community 100% of the gate proceeds will be donated to local veteran’s organizations.

Cost: $5 Adults $3 Children
at the Bay County Fair Grounds
2230 E 15th Street Panama City, FL 32405

Classical Conversations Information Meeting

2010-01-18T16:04:00.000-08:00

Classical Conversations, Panama City will be having an information meeting Monday, January 25, 2010 from 6:30 -8:30pm at Heritage Bible Church. Join us for an evening of discussion to see if Classical education is the right fit for your family.

We will discuss the 3 basic steps of learning, and focus on how Classical Conversations equips parents to teach their children these lifetime learning skills. We will demonstrate aspects of our Foundations, Essentials, and Challenge programs, and discover easy-to-use resources that develop life-long learners. Registration of new families begins in February, 2010.

For more information contact Shonda Bush or Helen Holmes or visit our website at www.ccpcfl.com.

Gem & Mineral Show

2010-01-10T12:34:00.000-08:00

The Panama City Gem & Mineral Society will hold its 19th annual show Saturday, January 30, 2010, 9am - 5pm and Sunday, January 31, 9am-4pm at the Bay County Fairgrounds, American Legion Hall, U. S. 98 & Sherman Avenue.

Parking and Admission are FREE.

Gems, Minerals, Fossils, Jewelry, Lapidary Arts, Wire Wrapping, Exhibits, Door Prizes.

Information: Ruth Alldredge (850) 784-0740, or aquezpie@comcast.net.

Nutcracker Dreams

2009-12-01T13:35:00.000-08:00

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.

2009-11-18T09:46:00.000-08:00

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

Ask a Librarian holds Video contest

2009-11-15T14:23:00.000-08:00

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

Art Camp at the Kirksey’s

2009-11-13T18:41:00.000-08:00

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.

2009-11-04T05:56:00.000-08:00

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.

Upward Basketball Registration

2009-10-17T10:53:00.000-07:00

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.

FREE Home School PE Session

2009-10-12T13:16:00.000-07:00

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.

2nd Annual Fire Prevention Fest

2009-10-09T11:05:00.000-07:00

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

Daughters of the American Revolution Essay Contest

2009-10-08T18:29:00.000-07:00

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

Covenant Ballet

2009-10-04T14:27:00.000-07:00

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

Sizzling Science!

2009-09-29T06:27:00.000-07:00

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.

Zoobilee 2009

2009-09-26T05:26:00.000-07:00

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.

The Band of the US Air Force Reserve

2009-09-25T13:44:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-25T13:29:00.000-07:00

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

Museum Day, September 26, 2009

2009-09-24T19:01:00.000-07:00

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.

Florida KidCare Contest

2009-09-22T10:12:00.000-07:00

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.

The Price of Art

2009-09-15T19:11:00.000-07:00

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.

Teenpact Florida

2009-09-12T18:50:00.000-07:00

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.

Safety Day at the Jr Museum

2009-09-09T06:15:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-09T06:11:00.000-07:00

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.

Bay County Christian Youth Choir

2009-09-08T19:39:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-08T18:47:00.000-07:00

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

Christian School closes, SALE

2009-09-04T18:13:00.000-07:00

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.

Character Training Homeschool Conference

2009-09-03T16:24:00.000-07:00

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.

Classical Conversations Panama City Open House

2009-09-02T08:33:00.001-07:00

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!

Governor Charlie Crist's Hispanic Heritage Month Student Contests

2009-09-01T18:43:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-01T16:25:00.000-07:00

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.

ACTING CLASSES WITH SHARON CARROLL

2009-08-30T18:33:00.000-07:00

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

Homeschoolers in the news

2009-08-29T18:29:00.000-07:00

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!

The Homeschooler's Friend Support Meeting

2009-08-28T15:09:00.000-07:00

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…….

Contenders for the Faith

2009-08-16T13:11:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-16T13:05:00.000-07:00

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.

Art Class at the Kirksey’s

2009-08-14T16:53:00.000-07:00

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

Perseid Meteor Shower

2009-08-09T18:39:00.000-07:00

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.

Teacher Appreciation

2009-08-04T08:12:00.000-07:00

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!

Aristocrats Play

2009-07-17T18:20:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-17T10:22:00.000-07:00

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

Summer Dance Camp

2009-06-30T11:48:00.000-07:00

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

Curriculum Reviews

2009-06-24T14:24:00.000-07:00

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!

Summer Ballet

2009-06-07T08:13:00.000-07:00

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/.

Local Art Camp

2009-05-26T07:14:00.000-07:00

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.

Ultimate Homeschool Expo 2009

2009-05-25T11:47:00.000-07:00

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

Preparing a Portfolio

2009-05-22T12:00:00.000-07:00

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.

Donna Young for free printables
A free computer software program called Homeschool Tracker

Etiquette Classes

2009-05-19T12:15:00.000-07:00

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

Teacher Discounts

2009-05-14T12:00:00.000-07:00

Being a teacher has many rewards! Some businesses offer discounts to teachers and many of them extend these discounts to homeschooling teachers. If you would like to see a short list of some teacher discounts you can see them here. If you know of any others that would apply to the Florida Panhandle, leave a comment!

Summer Camps

2009-05-13T12:00:00.000-07:00

Summer is a great time to add in some fun hands on learning to your homeschool. Whether you are a year round homeschooler or you like to take the summer off, there are some great activities and camps offered in Panama City and the surrounding areas. You can hone your skills in your favorite sport, stay cool inside with arts and crafts, splash around in the water, or a combination of all! Check out the Summer Camps page at for a few options.

If you know of a great summer opportunity, be sure to let us know!