Ruth by Lake and Prairie

Hello Ms. Schnepper—

I saw your post about the history programs at the Des Plaines History Center and the reference to thaumatropes caught my eye. If it would be of interest to your readers, I included a thaumatrope on the activities page of the web site for my book “Ruth by Lake and Prairie.” Ruth’s story follows her journey with other pioneering families from Ohio to Illinois through the Great Lakes so I created a schooner thaumatrope.

Homeschooling families may not be familiar with “Ruth,” but I’m proud to say that it won an award from the Illinois State Historical Society for depicting 1830”s Illinois history in an accurate and entertaining way. There isn’t a lot written about 1830’s pioneers, which is forty years before Laura Ingalls Wilder, so I’m always trying to let teachers know the book is available.

Thank you for the interesting information about the Des Plaines History Center. Enjoy these spring days!

Kate Gingold
www.KateGingold.com
http://www.ruthbylakeandprairie.com/

Springtime on the Farm - Spring Valley Nature Center

Springtime on the Farm
http://www.parkfun.com/Facilities/SpringValley.aspx

Experience Schaumburg as a rural German farm community just as it was in the 1880s at Springtime on the Farm. The annual event represents Heritage Farm's spring season "home opener" and will take place from 12-4 p.m. April 18 at Spring Valley's Heritage Farm, 201 S. Plum Grove Road.

"An abundance of activities are taking place such as the birth of new animals, plowing and planting crop fields, preparing the kitchen garden and cleaning the home," said Dave Brooks, manager of Spring Valley. "This event in particular showcases many of the activities that take place during the daily interpretive demonstrations throughout the spring months; however, at this event they are all happening at once so there's lots to see and do."

Many of the hands-on activites revolve around the concept of spring cleaning, which was an important reality in the 19th century. Participants will be able to help do laundry, which was washed by hand and hung on a line to dry; beat the farmhouse rugs; and restuff bedding with fresh straw. They will also be allowed to help plant vegetables in the garden and sow oats in the field after the soil has been worked by the horses. The blacksmith will be working in his shop, butter will be churned in the springhouse, and the cow will be milked near the end of the event.

Springtime on the Farm also includes craft activities, games, refreshments and hay rides. Food and beverages are available for purchase. Admission is $2 per person and $8 per family. Children 3 and under are admitted free.

Earth Day 2010

EARTH DAY 2010

BARTLETT NATURE CENTER
http://www.bartlettparks.com/Nature-Center/general.asp
Location: James "Pate" Philip State Park, Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W.
Stearns Rd., Bartlett
847-608-3100

Saturday, April 24 • 12 noon to 4 pm (Rain or Shine!) FREE!

Our Earth ~ Our Future
Party with the planet! Come celebrate Earth Day’s 40th birthday with The Bartlett Nature Center and Bartlett Parks Foundation at our 10th annual Earth Day event.
There will be a wide variety of educational exhibits, demonstrations and hands-on activities. Fun for the entire family tree!

What is Earth Day?
Founded by Senator Gaylord Nelson of the United States, Earth Day was first celebrated on April 22, 1970 in the United States. He believed strongly that education is the key to changing people’s attitudes about the environment and he devoted much of his energy to that challenge.
Across the United States, 20 million people and thousands of local schools and communities participated in the first Earth Day. The huge turnout for the first Earth Day made it the largest organized celebration in the history of the United States. Everyone got involved and since then, Earth Day has spread all over the planet.
Today Earth Day is the largest, most celebrated environmental event worldwide. On Earth Day, we remember to appreciate nature and learn ways to protect our environment.
The world around us is always changing, and so is our Earth Day celebration! One thing that hasn’t changed – this event is FREE! No reservation required.
For more information on how to become a sponsor or participant call The Bartlett Nature Center @ 847-608-3100.

Summer Reading Program - Fundraiser for Stepping Stones

Summer Reading Program - Fundraiser for Stepping Stones

I am putting together a summer reading program sponsored by Usborne Books in which children solicit people that sponsor them to read and log a minimum of 20 minutes a day over the course of their summer break. When the program ends, they collect their sponsorship money and are rewarded with 50% of their total amount raised in their choice of Usborne Books and the other 50% will provide books to Stepping Stones of Roselle, IL (a not for profit organization dedicated to creating a path to safety and empowerment for women of domestic violence and their children). If anyone would like to participate, please contact me. We will celebrate our accomplishment with an (optional) Ice Cream Social at the Kids World Park located in Carol Stream, IL.

Thanks so much,
Jackie Brown
Homeschool Mom and Usborne Books & More Consultant
630.606.3511


Information about Stepping Stones:
http://steppingstonesroselle.org/index.html

What is Stepping Stones?
Due to the overwhelming need in DuPage County for transitional housing for women of domestic violence, Stepping Stones was formed in 2003.

Stepping Stones’ intent is to provide emotional support, financial assistance, a safe environment and career opportunities to a family. Stepping Stones is grounded in Christ’s love for His neighbor and through a Christian outreach, guides and assists clients toward a productive life.

Stepping Stones is privileged to partner with Bridge Communities, Inc., a private, non-profit housing and mentoring program in DuPage County. The Bridge program provides homeless families with basic housing, case management, life skills, mentor training, job readiness preparation, and after school tutoring.

Once the client has been chosen, an apartment is selected by Bridge Communities; Stepping Stones then has the task of furnishing the apartment in preparation for receiving the abused woman and her children. We seek volunteer mentors who will attend the training program at Bridge to acquire the skills necessary to guide and mentor our clients. Food, clothing and other resources are donated through Stepping Stones.

For the next 18-24 months, Stepping Stones is responsible for the well-being and nurturing of our clients and Bridge continues to provide counseling services and case management to help the women take control of their lives. It is an upstream battle for survivors of physical, mental or verbal abuse. Stepping Stones, assisted by Bridge Communities, will help provide a pathway of safety and empowerment that will assure a better future for women of domestic violence.

How Can Stepping Stones Help? 1. Abused women, many with children, often seek protection, security and shelter in a "safe house." The family may move into such a facility temporarily before advancing to transitional housing and a program that helps them start a new life.

2. Due to the overwhelming need for transitional housing, Stepping Stones was formed.

3. Stepping Stones is privileged to partner with Bridge Communities, Inc., a private, non-profit housing and mentoring program in DuPage County. The Bridge program provides homeless families with basic housing, after school tutoring and job readiness training. There are social workers and mentors to provide life skills education.

4. Together we can help abused women and their children from many areas overcome the barriers and break the cycle of domestic violence, giving them a chance to:

• Heal
• Meet Caring Individuals
• Gain Emotional Support
• Learn to Manage Finances
• Develop Independence
• See What Love Can Accomplish

Des Plaines History Center - Spring Homeschool Programs

Des Plaines History Center
781 Pearson Street
Des Plaines IL 60016
http://www.desplaineshistory.org/

Home-School Programs

The History Center's Home-School program includes a short, hands-on lesson plus an accompanying project. A different historical theme is covered each month.

The third Wednesday of each month from 10:00-11:00 am or 1:00-2:00 pm, September-May. An adult must accompany children to programs. Geared toward children ages 5-12. Advance registration required: 847-391-5399

Programs FREE unless otherwise noted.
This year's Home-School Program is sponsored in part by the Kiwanis Club of Des Plaines

Spring 2010

April 21: Toys that Trick Your Brain
Try out some 19th century toys that create optical illusions including a stereo viewer, thaumatrope, and phenakistoscope. See yourself in 3D by making a stereo card featuring your picture.

May 19: Victory Gardens & V-Mail
Learn about the homefront experience during WWII by planting a victory garden and writing your own V-Mail letter.

Discovery Center Museum - Spring Homeschool Classes

Discovery Center Museum
711 North Main Street
Rockford, Illinois 61103
http://discoverycentermuseum.org/about/index.php

Home School Classes Spring 2010

Preregistration required. To register, call 815-963-6769 or drop by the Discovery Center office during normal business hours. Payment must accompany registration.

Class fees: $11 Members / $13 Public; ages 6 and up

Simple Machines I
What are simple machines? Where would we be without wedges? How do screws help our lives? Get a feel for mechanical advantage as you lift an incredible mass with a GIANT lever. Build simple machines and measure their effectiveness as we explore forces and more in this class about levers, inclined planes, wedges, screws.

Wednesday, April 14
Session 1 ages 6-7; 11:00-12:30 p.m.
Session 2 ages 8-9; 11:00-12:30 p.m.
Session 3 ages 10+; 11:00-12:30 p.m.
Session 4 ages 6 & up: 3:30-5:00 p.m.


Simple Machines II
Build a free-wheeling car, design a pulley-driven message-carrier, calculate the turns on a series of LEGO gears, and much more! We’ll turn the force around in this follow-up class about wheels and axles, pulleys, and gears. Note: While the Simple Machines I is not a prerequisite, this class will build directly on themes from that class.

Wednesday, May 5
Session 1 ages 6-7; 11:00-12:30 p.m.
Session 2 ages 8-9; 11:00-12:30 p.m.
Session 3 ages 10+; 11:00-12:30 p.m.
Session 4 ages 6 & up: 3:30-5:00 p.m.


Advanced registration and payments are required for participation in all Home School classes.

Please note that admission to and exploration of Discovery Center Museum itself are separate from the Home School classes.

April Library Book Sales

Book Sales

Algonquin Area Public Library
Eastgate Branch
115 Eastgate St.
847-658-4343

April 15 - 18

Over 23,000 Books in 70 categories

Some are library overstocks

All adult books are sorted and on shelves

Over 9000 items for children, well organized in bins and shelves

Great Prices
Adult books, $1 and up; children .25 and up;
Paperbacks .50; CDs/Videos $1; Books on Tape $1, DVDs $2, books on CD $3
Vintage paperback mysteries 10 cents
Special collections for April: History, Job, Career

Large FICTION section in alpha order

Many unusual special books!

SERIOUS BUYERS PREVIEW SALE
Thursday 4 to 8
$10 Admission charge
Adults only please

REGULAR SALE HOURS - FREE ADMISSION
Friday 4 to 8
Saturday 10 to 2 (new hours)
Sunday 1 to 4
Sunday Books are HALF PRICE

Refreshments available Friday and Saturday

++++++++++

Des Plaines Public Library
1501 Ellinwood St.
847-376-2922

April 16 - 18

Spring 2010 Book Sale

Thousands of sorted books at bargain prices

Books for both children and adults

About 70% are donated and 70% are hard covers

Preview for members of the Friends only
Friday April 16, 6 pm to 9 pm
Memberships available at the door - $5 for individuals or $10 for families
Numbers given out beginning at 4:30pm

Open to the Public
Saturday April 17 from 9:30am to 4pm
Sunday April 18, from 1pm to 5pm

Most hard cover books are $1.00, better books are slightly more.
Also LP records, CD's and Dvd's
Books are sorted according to many categories.

Sponsored by Friends of the Des Plaines Public Library

The library is located in downtown Des Plaines just south of the train station. For more information call (847) 376-2922.

++++++++++

Mount Prospect Public Library
10 S Emerson St
847-253-5675

April 17 - 18

Sat 9-4:30, Sun noon-4:30
Preview: Fri 6:30-9:30, Friends; join at door

40,000 books; 95% donated; 50% hardcover; sorted; not 'picked over'; no buyer restrictions; .25-$1
April: Featuring additional 25 Cent Bargain Room

++++++++++

Arlington Heights Memorial Library
500 N. Dunton Ave.
847-392-0100

April 24 - 25

Sat 9-4:30, Sun noon-4:30
Preview: Fri 6-9pm, Friends; entry numbers available to members beginning at 9am. Membership at door: 7pm

75,000 books; 80% donated; 56% hardcover; includes DVDs, records, CDs, tapes; paperback .50-$1; hardcovers $1

Silent Auction Sat 9-2
Shoppers are not allowed to use scanners, cell phones, computers, etc.

Cosley Zoo - Homeschool Programs

Cosley Zoo
A facility of the Wheaton Park District
www.cosleyzoo.org

School & Group Programs
Programs are great for…
• School Classrooms
• Youth Groups
• Homeschool Groups
• Scout Groups
• Day Camps
• Senior Groups
• And more!

Program material is adjusted to be age appropriate for your group.
– Programs are interactive and include live animals for a one-of-a-kind, up close encounter.
– Programs do not include a tour of the zoo, so please allow additional time before or after your program.

Frequently Asked Questions
• Can we have lunch at the zoo? Yes. Picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Cosley Zoo does not have an indoor eating space.
• Where do we meet the zoo instructor?
After checking in at the Wild Side Gift Shop and taking care of payment, your instructor meets you outside of the gift shop.
• When is payment due? Payment is due the day of your program upon arrival. Cash,
check, Visa and MasterCard are accepted.
• Will participants be able to touch any animals during the program? While we
cannot guarantee touching with all of our programs, we can guarantee interaction with
the animals.
• What happens in the case of inclement weather? We can hold our education programs
rain or shine. If you cancel a program, we will try to reschedule. However, we cannot
guarantee a date.
• What happens if we are unable to arrive on time for our scheduled program? If you arrive late, you may receive a shortened or altered program, and no refund will be
provided.
• Can younger siblings attend the program?
To help ensure the quality of the program, we discourage bringing younger siblings to the program.

Cosley Zoo
1356 N. Gary Avenue
Wheaton, IL 60187
630.665.5534 (Ph)
630.260.6408 (Fx)
www.cosleyzoo.org

We offer programs for all ages!
Call us for your secondary education and adult education needs.

AMERICA The Story of Us

History Channel - History Classroom

Free (includes Homeschools): AMERICA The Story of US DVD
http://classroom.history.com/america-dvd/event/form

School principals, register for your school’s free AMERICA The Story of US DVD!*
America The Story of US — premiering on HISTORY™ April 25 at 9pm/8c — is a six week event that provides a fascinating look at the stories of the people, events, and innovations that forged our nation. It will provide you with an unprecedented opportunity to bring our nation’s history to life for your students. This 12-hour series will be supported by educational materials tied to curriculum standards and is copyright cleared for Fair Use in the classroom by instructors or pupils in the course of face-to-face teaching activities.

HISTORY is offering America The Story of US on DVD to every school in the United States. School must be an accredited public, private or home school, grades K-12 and college. In order to receive your school's DVD, your school principal (grades K-12) or Dean of Students (college) should fill out the request form below. HISTORY strictly limits each school to one request.

DVD requests must be made prior to July 1, 2010. DVDs will be mailed around August 2010, and free shipping is included in this offer.

Odyssey Fun World in Naperville - March 26th

Odyssey Fun World

I have set up a fun day at Odyssey Fun World in Naperville, March 26 from 12am -4pm form my homeschool group, Holistic Learners.

I have attached the flyer for this day. Homeschooling families need to bring the flyer in order to get the discount. If they have something else that verifies they homeschool they should bring that as well.

Please feel free to send this out to all your homeschool groups.

Linda Smeltzer
Organizer for Holistic Learners Homeschool Group

2010 Great Outdoors Expo

Second Annual
2010 Great Outdoors Expo

http://www.greatoutdoorsexpo.net/index.cfm

When: March 27th and 28th

Time: 9 am - 5 pm

Where: Woodstock North High School
Cost: $5 at the door for adults; children 12 and under are free

Welcome to the 2nd Annual 2010 Great Outdoors Expo, produced by the Woodstock Morning Rotary Club. This two day event will be highlighted by a variety of demonstrations, workshops and seminars. Additionally, exhibitors will be selling hunting and fishing gear, camping supplies, boats, ATV's and a wide variety of outdoor equipment.

Enjoy the special Kids Area and Great Food!

Dozens of kids craft activities and events all weekend.

Bird Walks at Volo Bog and McHenry Dam

Bird Walks at Volo Bog and McHenry Dam

The Ok-a-lee of red-winged blackbirds is a most welcome sound after a long winter! Their calls join those of migrating sandhill cranes, Canada geese, and a variety of ducks returing with the release of winter's icy grip. Hawks are paired up and repairing nests. Owls are already feeding youngsters. As the wetlands continue to warm, shorebirds and rails begin to return. Bluebirds are already back, joining the hardy cardinals and chickadees now singing a welcome to the lengthening daylight. The warmer days have brought flying insects along with swallows and flycathers to eat them. When the oaks leaf out, warblers too will return. So, bring a friend, binoculars and field guides - or borrow from us - and enjoy spring's migration on our bird walks!

All walks begin at 8 a.m. Walk times vary with weather and luck with the birds.

Saturday, March 27 at Volo Bog
Saturday, April 3 at McHenry Dam
Saturday, April 10 at Volo Bog
Saturday, April 17 at McHenry Dam
Saturday, April 24 at Volo Bog
Sunday, May 9 at Volo Bog
Saturday, May 15 at McHenry Dam
Saturday, May 22 at McHenry Dam
Saturday, May 29 at Volo Bog
Saturday, June 5 at McHenry Dam
Sunday, June 13 at Volo Bog
Saturday, June 19 at McHenry Dam
Sunday, June 27 at Volo Bog (followed by Friends of Volo Bog Annual Membership Picnic - www.FriendsofVoloBog.org)

Our walks are geared to all levels of birding experience with veterans helping novice birders. Adults & attentive kids 7 years and older are welcome.

Volo Bog walks meet in the parking lot on Brandenburg Road in Ingleside.
McHenry Dam walks meet at the south end of McHenry Dam parking lot off River Road in McHenry.

Walks are co-sponsored & led by McHenry County Audubon - visit www.McHenryAudubon.org
Reservations are requested at 815-344-1294 or dnr.volobog@illinois.gov - Limited drop-ins are welcome but program may be cancelled if minimum registration is not met 24 hours prior.

Earth Hour 2010 - March 27th

http://www.earthhour.org/About.aspx

Earth Hour started in 2007 in Sydney, Australia when 2.2 million homes and businesses turned their lights off for one hour to make their stand against climate change. Only a year later and Earth Hour had become a global sustainability movement with more than 50 million people across 35 countries participating. Global landmarks such as the, Sydney Harbour Bridge, The CN Tower in Toronto, The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, and Rome’s Colosseum, all stood in darkness, as symbols of hope for a cause that grows more urgent by the hour.

In March 2009, hundreds of millions of people took part in the third Earth Hour. Over 4000 cities in 88 countries officially switched off to pledge their support for the planet, making Earth Hour 2009 the world’s largest global climate change initiative.

Earth Hour 2010 takes place on Saturday 27 March at 8.30pm (local time) and is a global call to action to every individual, every business and every community throughout the world. It is a call to stand up, to take responsibility, to get involved and lead the way towards a sustainable future. Iconic buildings and landmarks from Europe to Asia to the Americas will stand in darkness. People across the world from all walks of life will turn off their lights and join together in celebration and contemplation of the one thing we all have in common – our planet. So sign up now and let’s make 2010 the biggest Earth Hour yet!.

It’s Showtime! Show the world what can be done.

At 8.30pm on 27 March, lights will go out for one hour all over the world and we'd love you to help capture the moment in your area. We're going to be adding your photos and videos to the homepage of earthhour.org on the night as it happens around the world, so upload your images and videos as soon as you can.

Little Passports

Send your child on a virtual trip around the world!

Little Passports inspires your child to learn about different countries, cultures and languages in a fun and engaging way.

An award-winning product, Little Passports is a global adventure for children aged 6 to 10 years old. Follow our globetrotting friends Sam and Sofia, as they travel to a new country every month on their magical scooter.

With a Little Passports subscription, children will delight in receiving monthly packages in the postal mail from Sam and Sofia containing letters, souvenirs, stickers, activities and access to online games. Subscriptions are priced as low as $10.95/month.

Little Passports also donates a portion of its sales to non-profits focused on helping children in other countries including SOS Children’s Villages-USA and Ubuntu Education Fund.

Little Passports is a 2009 iParenting Media and Parents'Choice Award Winner.

Start your subscription today!

http://littlepassports.com/

Summer Reading Boost - Academic Associates Reading Clinic

Give your child the opportunity for academic success!

SUMMER READING BOOST

Expect your child to gain 1-3 grade levels this summer!

All grade levels
One-on-one sessions
No Contracts!
Academic Associates Reading Clinic

Roselle, IL
630-307-0777
www.everychildcanread.com

Contact us for a FREE, no obligation reading assessment and consultation

We are former homeschoolers and your child will be taught in a warm nurturing environment. Parent participation in class is welcomed and encouraged!

References from other homeschoolers available upon request

Kim Congdon - Piano Instructor

Kim Congdon (KC) has her degree in keyboard performance from Northern Illinois University, and has been a professional musician since the age of 17. She has made her living exclusively from music since she was 21, and is currently a member of the nationally renowned Agape Ringers, who regularly tour the United States and Europe. She has appeared on WTTW’s Artbeat and on Good Morning Arizona. She has served as a mentor for Orbert Davis’ MusicAlive! Program, a life skills development project for at-risk inner city kids. KC also teaches at national and state seminars for music directors, and has served as the Illinois State Chair for AGEHR, a musician’s guild. Over the past several years, she has released five CD’s.

KC attended Moody Bible Institute majoring in Church Music (before it had a degree program) and finished her degree in Organ Performance at Northern Illinois University.

KC is currently employed as a handbell director at St Matthew UCC in Wheaton and 1st Congregational of Western Springs where she directs both a young person's bell choir and an adult choir at each church. More information about her performances can be found at www.agaperingers.org.

KC is looking for piano students to fill some time slots on Sunday afternoon/evening and Monday morning/early afternoon. Her studio is at St Matthew UCC 1420 S Gables, Wheaton.

Typically, students stay with KC from first grade through high school graduation, some of whom have gone on to be performing artists. However, she is willing to accept students on a short-term basis at any age level including adults who want to explore a new skill.

References available upon request.

Kim Congdon
207 S Pine St.
Lexington, IL
309.365.2910

Kane - DuPage Passport to Adventure begins Memorial Day

Passport to Adventure Program
http://kdrma.org/passport.asp

Join in on the fun. The annual Passport to Adventure Program is your ticket to the many amazing and exciting activities that museums provide to enrich our lives and communities.

The Program begins each year on Memorial Day and runs through Labor Day. Visit a participating museum or participating local library to pick up a passport booklet filled with destinations to over 50 museums, nature centers and historical sites in the western suburbs. Many sites have designed special activities for children who participate in the program.

Fill your passport with as many stamps as you can! After visiting five sites, participants who return their passport to the location stamped on the front page of their booklet receive a Certificate noting their accomplishment. Visiting seven sites earns the Certificate and an additional Incentive Prize determined by each museum. Keep your passport as a reference guide for fun places to visit throughout the year.

The Passport to Adventure Program is designed for children between the ages of 4 and 12 and sponsored by the Kane-DuPage Regional Museum Association.

Legislative Day 2010 sponsored by CHEC

Illinois Christian Home Educators and Christian Home Educators Coalition
invite you to

Legislative Day on April 21!

Dear Friends,

Don't miss Legislative Day 2010!

This is a great field trip with purpose to see the Capital, meet the
legislators and lobbyists, and make your voice heard. Join the frrontline watch
dogs for homeschooling freedoms. See you there!

Bring along 2 homemade CHERRY pies.

KEEP HOMESCHOOLING FREE IN ILLINOIS!

For further info go to: www.CHEC.us or call (815)341-8805.

A room block is available through CHEC at: Route 66 Hotel and Conference
Center, 625 E. Saint Joseph's Street, Springfield, IL 62703.

The hotel is about 3 miles from the Capital building. The rate is $69 +
tax/night for 2 double beds.

Blessings,

Your CHEC Board
CHEC
2405 Essington Rd
PMB 122
Joliet, IL 60435
(815)341-8805
website: www.chec.us

Brookfield Zoo Field Trip - Sponsored by Northern Illinois Homeschool Monthly

Brookfield Zoo Field Trip

Sponsored by Northern Illinois Homeschool Monthly

Event: Self-guided field trip (We will plan to tour the zoo together from 10 am - 11:30 when we will break for lunch.)

Who: All ages (0 - 18); Parent/adult chaperone is required to attend.

Max Limits: 30 students, 10 chaperones, 10 vehicles

Date: Wednesday, April 7th

Time: 10 am sharp (We will meet in front of the North Gate) The zoo closes at 5 pm.

Cost: $9 parking fee per vehicle (payable when you arrive at the zoo); admission is free

Lunch: We will break for lunch at 11:30 am.

RSVP: You must RSVP by April 1st if you plan to attend. I will send a copy of our field trip confirmation which you will need to enter the zoo as part of our group. If you do not have a copy of the confirmation, you will not be given our group discount. RSVP to N.IL.HomeschoolMonthly@gmail.com with number/age of students and number of adults attending.

Note: If you RSVP, you need to plan to attend (exceptions being illness or emergency). The last field trip planned had 30 registered participants with 15 people cancelling the day before or day of the trip. Only one family cancelled due to illness/emergency.

Questions?
Julie Schnepper
N.IL.HomeschoolMonthly@gmail.com

Used Curriculum and Resource Sale sponsored by Legacy Christian Co-op

USED CURRICULUM & RESOURCE SALE

Sponsered by Legacy Christian Co-op

CLEAN OUT THOSE CLOSETS, BOOKSHELVES AND DESKS AND TURN THAT CLUTTER INTO CASH!

OR JUST STOP BY AND HUNT FOR A FEW BARGAINS. ALL ARE WELCOME!

Sponsered by Legacy Christian Co-op

WHEN: Friday, April 30; 10:00 am -2:00 pm; (set-up begins at 9:30 for sellers)

WHERE: Community Christian Church at the Children's Art Center
174 Highpoint Drive, Romeoville, IL 60446

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: April 25th, There is no charge to host a table or to attend. We just need to know how many tables to set up. For more information, please contact Michelle at 815-254-4628 or by email at michelletdpa@gmail.com

Please feel free to forward this to other homeschooling groups, or anyone else you may know.

Thank you.

Noah Wilke, Music Teacher

Hello,

My name is Noah and I'm a music teacher in the Chicago metro area. I would like to offer two completely free hour-long lessons to absolutely anybody. Might any of your contacts be interested?

I teach any level of piano, guitar, bass, and beginner's voice. I hold BMus and MMus degrees from esteemed schools and have 8+ years of teaching experience.

As a homeschooling parent myself, I am available to travel to students' homes at any time of day.

I have always believed strongly in a student-led approach, and can find a way to make the necessary theory interesting. All of my student progress well, and I truly enjoy helping others to learn music.

I would very much appreciate if you forwarded this information to anybody that might be interested. Two private hour-long music lessons for free is a service I believe many would appreciate.

Thank you,
Noah Wilke
312-550-5302

Ice Skating

Ice Skating

Friday March 26, 2010

9:45 am - 11:45 am

Sponsored by: Beacon Homeschool Group

Location: Hoffman Estates Ice Rink, 1685 W. Higgins, Hoffman Estates

Cost:
$2 per person and $1 for skates

For Better For Worse For Keeps Writing and Publishing School

For Better For Worse For Keeps Writing and Publishing School with Bob and Cheryl Moeller

This is also open to high school homeschool students junior year and up.

Who: You are invited to For Better For Worse For Keeps Writing and Publishing School, Small enough to know your name, taught by published writing professionals.
What: For Better For Worse For Keeps Writing and Publishing School - topics are How to get Started, How to Get Published, How to Get an Agent, with lots of question and answer sessions. We want to take you up a level from where you are. Are you curious about the process, want to learn a new skill set, have an idea that you want to wade into, or ready to publish, then this is for you.

Welcome to high school juniors through all adults.

When: Friday Evening, March 26, 3:00 Start ordering your dinner. Conference is from 4:00 Pm - 10:00 Pm. Please try to make it on time, as the conference is 6 hours of teaching, discussion, and Q and A.
Where: Pompei Restaurant and Bakery, 1261 East Higgins Road, Schaumburg, IL 60173. 60seats, so please sign up early. (Please do not contact the restaurant) Contact for information or R.S.V.P. office@bobandcherylmoeller.com

Cost: Free (A freewill offering will be taken for the For Better For Worse For Keeps Ministries)
Dinner and etc.: On your own at Pompei. This is a non-alcohol event. Arrive starting at 3:00 to order your food and find a place in the restaurant party room, where we will be meeting. Conference notes are provided free.

Each participant can submit 1500 words before the conference, to be reviewed by Cheryl by phone after the conference. This can be 1500 words for one article or book, 750 words for two different projects. We attempt to accomodate your schedule, if possible.

Teachers are Bob and Cheryl Moeller, married for 30 years, homeschool parents of six children (one son-in-law), and three lively dogs:
Bob Moeller, D.Min.: Co-founder of For Better For Worse For Keeps Ministries, Total Living Network TV host, radio personality, For Better For Worse For Keeps National Conference Speaker, The Road to “I Do” Single’s Conference Speaker, published author of 10 books, ghost writer for 6 books, and wrote over 100 articles for magazines and newspapers such as Focus on the Family, Leadership Journal, Moody Magazine, Christianity Today, Christian Reader, Marriage Partnership.
Cheryl Moeller, M.A.R.: Co-founder of For Better For Worse For Keeps Ministries, published author of 4 books with national publishers, published six books (including homeschool curriculcum) through own publishing company - sold through websites and at conferences, wrote articles for various publications including Marriage Partnership and MOPS.org, syndicated humor columnist for 7 online parent websites and magazines, stand up comic, speaker for retreats and conferences, and former literary agent for 11 years.

West Suburban Homeschool Band Open House

WSHSB Open House

The West Suburban Home School Band will be holding an Open House during regular rehearsal times on Thursday, April 8, 2010. All interested home schoolers are invited to come and watch any rehearsal in Cornelius Hall at Resurrection Church at the NW corner of Army Trail and 59 in Wayne. Rehearsal times for our 4 different band levels are 5:15-6pm Cadets (beginners), 6-7pm Concert Junior, 7-8pm Concert Senior, 8-9pm Symphonic. Feel free to come any time and stay as long as you like. We will have free gifts for all who visit! For more information or questions, please contact the director, Karen Borow, at 630-231-6155 or director@WSHSB.com.

Our 9th Annual Spring Concert will be 7 pm on Friday, May 14, 2010, at Wentz Concert Hall at North Central College, Naperville, IL. More info will be coming.

Beacon Homeschool Group Resource Fair

The Beacon Homeschool Group is hosting the 4th Annual Resource Fair

Elk Grove Village Public Library
Tuesday, March 23
7:00-9:00pm

If you wonder where to get information on what there is to do with your kids, check out the resource fair.
We've assembled a myriad of organizations that cater to homeschoolers.
From co-ops, academic programs, one-day classes, to fun field trip ideas, horseback riding, rock climbing, art classes, and much much more.

The first 75 will receive a resource booklet with even more ideas.

This program is open to the public. Bring your friends and even someone just thinking about homeschooling. Socialization is not a problem when you see all the programs out there for homeschool kids!!!

For more info, check out www.beaconhomeschool.org

Beacon Homeschool Group is a Christian homeschool group that provides it's members with monthly meetings, topical speakers, online discussion group, membership directory, field trips and more.

Emily Oaks Nature Center

Dear Homeschool Community Leaders,

As we are enjoying the warmer weather, we are also preparing for a new season of Scoutin’ Around at Emily Oaks Nature Center, and we are looking forward to having your children join us! Encourage your homeschoolers to enjoy the wonders of spring by exploring the natural world, learning new skills, and having fun outdoors!

Please pass on this information to your partnering families, and add to websites or blogs at will! Thank you.

Session Details

Sessions are held every Tuesday at Emily Oaks from 1:15 to 3:15 p.m., with extended class times for off-site trips. The spring season begins on April 6 and ends on June 1. Children will be placed in one of two class groups based on age at time of enrollment (6-7 years old, 8-10 years old), and will participate in age-appropriate activities with others in their group.

As in past seasons, each spring session includes a nature-focused topic or skill, outdoor games or activities, and creative endeavors like crafts, dramatic performances, or storytelling. Check out the attached “Session Description” for this season’s topics!

Children will earn stickers each week as a visual representation of their participation and add it to their personal plaque, which is displayed in the classroom. After each session, participants will receive a resource page to encourage further exploration.

Nature Neighbors, a 9-week class for children 4-5 years old, is held at Emily Oaks at the same time as Scoutin' Around for your family's convenience. Stop by the Nature Center for a registration form or visit www.skokieparkdistrict.org. Registration is currently open.

Registration Information

Pre-registration for Scoutin’ Around is required. Registration begins TODAY for Skokie residents and non-residents. Registration deadline for ALL winter sessions is Friday, April 2. Please mark your calendars!

We are pleased to announce that you can now visit www.skokieparkdistrict.org to register online for the entire spring season (all 9 sessions) and individual sessions of Scoutin’ Around! If you prefer, you may still register in person at Emily Oaks Nature Center. Fees vary according to the session, and payment will be due at the time of registration.

NOTE: If you have not previously registered for programs at the Skokie Park District website, please call Emily Oaks at (847) 674-1500, ext. 2500, to be entered the computer system and receive your Web User ID and Password.

In order to provide a safe, positive experience for your children, we will abide by our minimum and maximum participant limits. Please register your children as soon as possible, as space is limited and registration will be processed on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Please let me know if you have any questions regarding the spring season of Scoutin’ Around, or if I can help in any other way.

Enjoy the day,
Jill
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Jill Flaherty
School-Age Program Coordinator
Emily Oaks Nature Center
Skokie Park District
847-674-1500, ext. 2525