Finally, finally finished-you all did not really think I was taking a vacation did you? Although there were a few days of thumb twiddling after the computer crashed until I realized I had more time to sew!
There are more changes coming but the bare bones are up and running. Check it out here --> www.NewMexicoHomeSchoolCommunity.com
Posts and events previous to today 7/7/2008 are located at the 'old' blog http://nmhomeschoolcommunity.blogspot.com/
VERY IMPT: Once you are a registered forum member please check the 'A Place for Everyone' board and make sure your group and contact information are included and updated.When the computer crashed and then I had to shut down the old site the updated information was lost and it defaulted back to info from a year ago.
Website updates and changes to come include:
**Ability to create your own personal blog through Wordpress, if you do not have one already this is your chance to start one. Does not have to be publicly accessible.
**Paid banner Ads and other forms of advertising spaces will be available on the main pages, the forums and the soon to come webcasting 'NM Homeschool News Network'. Banner ads can ONLY be for educational related businesses, all other homeschool businesses can go to the 'Work It Wednedays' Every Day forum. (This could change but I would like to give education related businesses first choice.)
**NM Homeschool News Network--Still need interested teens to both report and create web-newscasts. Have an interested teen? Qualifications: have a web cam, an interest, moderate computer skills and familiarity with the internet,access to a digital camera and/or digital recorder; be able to work independently; have the permission of your parents--it will take as much or as little time as you have or want to give--if you want to help in some way we will find something you are intersted in working on.
**FAQ section on using the forum.
**Homeschool terminology glossary.
**Social groups within the main forum.
**Photos in your signature.
And so much more---have a suggestion or comment please post it to the appropriate forum if you are registered and if not send me an email NMHomeschoolCommunity@gmail.com
BUT WHAT CAN YOU DO NOW??
1.) You have to register-ALL new members do have to be approved by the moderator. Guests will not have access to the forums. If you are already on the yahoo group or the email list just let me know so your approval can go through quicker.
At this time ONLY homeschoolers or those considering homeschooling can become members. Businesses/entities not owned by a homeschooling family are not allowed to be members of this forum-please continue to send your events to my email NMHomeschoolCommunity@gmail.com In the future I will have it set so that you can become a member and only be able to post to the events/business boards.
2.) Start posting in the various forums. Use 'New Topic' or 'Reply'
To have your event added to the calendar-post your event, go back and click on the topic, at the bottom it says 'Link to Calendar' and you just enter in the date of your event as well as the Title. This will then allow a user to see the event on the calendar and link to the orginal post. For events with mulitple dates please go directly to the calendar feature!
3) Even your tweens/teens have a space! Have them register with their own user account (parent approval will be required under 14) and they can use the forum. Guests can not see their forum and I am trying to figure out how to set it so that only teens and their parents can view it but for now all registered members can view so make sure they are versed in internet safety.
4.) Go to your forum profile information. Get a cool avatar or upload your own. Set your profile. Set your signature. Even upload pictures to your own personal gallery.
5.) You will no longer receive emails from me, everything will go through the forum BUT you can change the settings so that you will receive notices of new topics to your email account. I apologize, I know some of you really liked getting a ton of emails from me but that is part of the reason this forum had to be created so quickly because the number of members & emails I am receiving has exceeded the ability to get all the information out to the community.
And most importantly add your own resources, communicate and share!
Have fun homeschooling!
--
You are receiving this announcement through a NM Homeschool Community Email mailing list. This list is private and will not be sold or shared. If you have any questions or changes to your email address please feel free to email me at NMHomeschoolCommunityUpdates@gmail.com
Thanks!
Tabitha Orr,
Homeschool Mom,
Executive Director,
New Mexico Homeschool Community Updates
NMHomeschoolCommunityUpdates@gmail.com
www.NewMexicoHomeSchoolCommunity.com
Monday, July 7, 2008
Thursday, June 26, 2008
CA Hearing Update, 6/25
http://spunkyhomeschool.blogspot.com/2008/06/in-defense-of-homeschooling.html
In Defense of Homeschooling
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Sometimes homeschooling advocates are a little over zealous in their defense of homeschooling; as a result, they potentially do more harm than good. Such might have been the case when the LA Times captured this quote from Rev. Wiley Drake at the appellate court rehearing regarding homeschooling in California.
"The Bible, our legal document, says the family is required to educate children based on the Scriptures," Drake said. "We're against government schooling in any form. People who put their kids in public school probably should be arrested."
If the LA Times quoted him accurately, this is exactly the sort of statement that the moonbats on the left like to use to portray homeschoolers as wingnuts that need to be regulated in order to protect our children from becoming wingnuts. Thankfully, Drake was outside the courtroom on Monday.
However, Debbie Schwarzer, Legal Co-Chair of the Homeschooling Association of California, was inside the courtroom and recapped the day's events,
Read more at the link above.
In Defense of Homeschooling
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Sometimes homeschooling advocates are a little over zealous in their defense of homeschooling; as a result, they potentially do more harm than good. Such might have been the case when the LA Times captured this quote from Rev. Wiley Drake at the appellate court rehearing regarding homeschooling in California.
"The Bible, our legal document, says the family is required to educate children based on the Scriptures," Drake said. "We're against government schooling in any form. People who put their kids in public school probably should be arrested."
If the LA Times quoted him accurately, this is exactly the sort of statement that the moonbats on the left like to use to portray homeschoolers as wingnuts that need to be regulated in order to protect our children from becoming wingnuts. Thankfully, Drake was outside the courtroom on Monday.
However, Debbie Schwarzer, Legal Co-Chair of the Homeschooling Association of California, was inside the courtroom and recapped the day's events,
Read more at the link above.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
McCain and his take on Education 2008 Campaign
Another homeschool mom sent this link through....This is just a synopsis of quotes from McCain on his views on Education. If you have articles on any other candidate's comments as they relate to homeschooling please email them to me.
http://www.ontheissues.org/John_McCain.htm#Education
http://www.ontheissues.org/John_McCain.htm#Education
CA Court to Reconsider Ruling, Decision in 90 Days
Yeah I know I said I would not send emails but this one is important. Do not panic and go into a campaign of fear that homeschoolers will get their rights taken away in CA I fully believe that cooler heads will prevail. The teachers unions will NEVER like homeschoolers EVER, they will NEVER agree with a family's choice to educate our children. They think every teacher should be credentialed because it is business to them, they are threatened that we as homeschool parents are downplaying or belittling all the hard work they did in going through school to get their degree. And we all know that if every child were to attend the schools in their district that they would be more overtaxed than they already are...that being said we ALL need to be alert and aware of subtle efforts by those in politics to restrict our freedom as parents to have educational choices for our children--remember the teachers unions to not generally support private, charter or vouchers either but these too work in some cases and areas and give parents the freedom to have choices which is what it is all about anyway. When I hear more I will send the information onward.
Here in NM let us continue to homeschool our children, creating life learners, whose own efforts of learning, athletics, performing arts, etc.,etc. be the 'proof in the pudding' of the SUCCESS of homeschooling.
Tabbi
CA Court to reconsider ruling
Monday, June 23, 2008
The California Court of Appeals is set today to reconsider their ruling that required home educators to have a teaching credential in order to teach their children at home. The hearing pits the California teachers union against the governor and homeschool advocates across the state.
The most notable dissenter was the 330,000-member California Teachers Association, the state's largest teachers union. While insisting that it does not challenge the right of parents to homeschool their children, the association argued that state law requires in-home teachers to be credentialed.
Read more at the link to her blog http://spunkyhomeschool.blogspot.com/2008/06/ca-court-to-reconsider-ruling.html
Here in NM let us continue to homeschool our children, creating life learners, whose own efforts of learning, athletics, performing arts, etc.,etc. be the 'proof in the pudding' of the SUCCESS of homeschooling.
Tabbi
CA Court to reconsider ruling
Monday, June 23, 2008
The California Court of Appeals is set today to reconsider their ruling that required home educators to have a teaching credential in order to teach their children at home. The hearing pits the California teachers union against the governor and homeschool advocates across the state.
The most notable dissenter was the 330,000-member California Teachers Association, the state's largest teachers union. While insisting that it does not challenge the right of parents to homeschool their children, the association argued that state law requires in-home teachers to be credentialed.
Read more at the link to her blog http://spunkyhomeschool.blogspot.com/2008/06/ca-court-to-reconsider-ruling.html
Monday, June 23, 2008
NMHSC Going on a Computer Enforced Break
I will be back in a week!
OK so the computer crashed taking all my info from the fair and contacts with it...no big deal really...turns out Windows is most likely corrupted so have to go and get my hard drive info taken out before reinstalling Windows.
Through all this I have been working on a NEW IMPROVED REALLY COOL BETTER FUNCTIONING website and way of sharing information and resource around our beautiful state.
So since I have to work on the really slow computer (don't let it hear me it might decide it needs a vacation too) I am going to basically take a break for a week or so from sending out emails. If there are priority ones that need to go out I will still be able to check my mail but basically I am just going to get the new site up and running so that we can just jump into that....wait till you see what I have in store, so exciting! This means that my 'thank yous' that usually go out to vendors from the fair will slowly get done as I find that information again--SIGH technology makes life easier AND harder.
Basically the new website will have forums, calendar, blogging capabilities and really cool webcasts from around NM and beyond and oh so many more online capabilities! Oh yes and if you have a business you will be able to have ads up on the website!! One central location, more exposure, easier access!
Our numbers have grown into the thousands and it is harder for me to answer everyone's emails personally so I am seeing the need for a larger space where our community can really connect.
If you would still like to donate go to the website www.NewMexicoHomeSchoolCommunity.com and hit the Paypal button or email me and I will send you my mailing info. All the monies will go to keeping this community running--and I am doing everything I can to keep it free and/or low cost!
My priority is making sure that we as homeschoolers in New Mexico are able to connect with other homeschoolers and find resources in our community. No matter which way you choose to life your life, raise your family or educate your children we all need connections we all need a community.
I am so blessed to have you all in our world...I can not imagine a better place to give the gift of life long learning to my children. New Mexico is the example of successful homeschooling and I feel that we are leading the way for others in the future!
So on that note I will 'talk' to most of you in a week!!
OK so the computer crashed taking all my info from the fair and contacts with it...no big deal really...turns out Windows is most likely corrupted so have to go and get my hard drive info taken out before reinstalling Windows.
Through all this I have been working on a NEW IMPROVED REALLY COOL BETTER FUNCTIONING website and way of sharing information and resource around our beautiful state.
So since I have to work on the really slow computer (don't let it hear me it might decide it needs a vacation too) I am going to basically take a break for a week or so from sending out emails. If there are priority ones that need to go out I will still be able to check my mail but basically I am just going to get the new site up and running so that we can just jump into that....wait till you see what I have in store, so exciting! This means that my 'thank yous' that usually go out to vendors from the fair will slowly get done as I find that information again--SIGH technology makes life easier AND harder.
Basically the new website will have forums, calendar, blogging capabilities and really cool webcasts from around NM and beyond and oh so many more online capabilities! Oh yes and if you have a business you will be able to have ads up on the website!! One central location, more exposure, easier access!
Our numbers have grown into the thousands and it is harder for me to answer everyone's emails personally so I am seeing the need for a larger space where our community can really connect.
If you would still like to donate go to the website www.NewMexicoHomeSchoolCommunity.com and hit the Paypal button or email me and I will send you my mailing info. All the monies will go to keeping this community running--and I am doing everything I can to keep it free and/or low cost!
My priority is making sure that we as homeschoolers in New Mexico are able to connect with other homeschoolers and find resources in our community. No matter which way you choose to life your life, raise your family or educate your children we all need connections we all need a community.
I am so blessed to have you all in our world...I can not imagine a better place to give the gift of life long learning to my children. New Mexico is the example of successful homeschooling and I feel that we are leading the way for others in the future!
So on that note I will 'talk' to most of you in a week!!
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Tijeras: WILDFEST 2008
Talking Talons Youth Leadership, U.S Forest Service, Department of Health, and Jane Goodall Roots and Shoots are teaming up to bring you WILDFEST 2008! This event is July 26, 2008 at Roosevelt Middle School, from 10:00am-4:00pm. The venue is located within the beautiful Sandia Mountains right of Rt. 66. Learn about Hawks, Falcons, Owls, Bats, and even Reptiles. Come experience teachings about your very own environment, wildlife, and conservation acts. Enjoy the entertainment of magicians, musicians, and even some wonderful balloon rides. The entry fee for this event is $3 for adults, $2 for youth ages 5-12, and free for youth under 5 years of age. For more details call 281-1133 ext 5#, or visit www.TalkingTalons.com
Come for the fun but stay for the adventure!
Here is the Home school newsletter info thanks for your help!
Sincerely,
Ariel Dunlap
Talking Talons Youth Leaderhip Health Educator
www.TalkingTalons.com
ariel@talkingtalons.com
Come for the fun but stay for the adventure!
Here is the Home school newsletter info thanks for your help!
Sincerely,
Ariel Dunlap
Talking Talons Youth Leaderhip Health Educator
www.TalkingTalons.com
ariel@talkingtalons.com
Albuquerque: UNM Art Museum Summer Treasures
There are 2 PDFs attached to this so if you can not see them email me or the originator of the email!--Tabbi
IMPORTANT! This message has been blind-carbon-copied to you.
Do not reply-to-all or forward it without the author's permission.
Hi all,
Treat yourself to a visit to these FREE summer shows (see attached flyers for BIG STUFF and Ukiyo-e Japanese Prints) and you won't be sorry. I'm especially excited about the Japanese print exhibition--where else can you visit another place and time for the price of parking? Plus, it's air conditioned!
Happy Summer,
Sara
Sara Otto-Diniz, Ph.D.
Museum Educator
University of New Mexico Art Museum
MSC04 2570
1 University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NM 87131-0001
(505) 277-4010
www.unm.edu/~artmuse
"It seems as if the artwork is talking to you."
4th grade art partners
sodiniz@unm.edu
IMPORTANT! This message has been blind-carbon-copied to you.
Do not reply-to-all or forward it without the author's permission.
Hi all,
Treat yourself to a visit to these FREE summer shows (see attached flyers for BIG STUFF and Ukiyo-e Japanese Prints) and you won't be sorry. I'm especially excited about the Japanese print exhibition--where else can you visit another place and time for the price of parking? Plus, it's air conditioned!
Happy Summer,
Sara
Sara Otto-Diniz, Ph.D.
Museum Educator
University of New Mexico Art Museum
MSC04 2570
1 University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NM 87131-0001
(505) 277-4010
www.unm.edu/~artmuse
"It seems as if the artwork is talking to you."
4th grade art partners
sodiniz@unm.edu
Blog: Changing the Status Quo in Education--Obama interview w/ ABC News
Anyone have any links to interviews with McCain on Education? I want to hear what they have to say... Please send them to me...Thanks, Tabbi
http://spunkyhomeschool.blogspot.com/2008/06/changing-status-quo-in-education.html
Changing the Status Quo in Education
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Education may become an election issue after all. Jake Tapper at ABC News takes up the issue of school choice with Barack Obama. Here's a tanscript:
TAPPER: You talked about the need to change the status quo in education today.
OBAMA: Right.
TAPPER: But one of the ways that proponents of school choice say that the best way to change the status quo is to give parents, inner-city parents a choice. Why not?
OBAMA: Well, the problem is, is that, you know, although it might benefit some kids at the top, what you're going to do is leave a lot of kids at the bottom. We don't have enough slots for every child to go into a parochial school or a private school. And what you would see is a huge drain of resources out of the public schools.
Read more at link above.
http://spunkyhomeschool.blogspot.com/2008/06/changing-status-quo-in-education.html
Changing the Status Quo in Education
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Education may become an election issue after all. Jake Tapper at ABC News takes up the issue of school choice with Barack Obama. Here's a tanscript:
TAPPER: You talked about the need to change the status quo in education today.
OBAMA: Right.
TAPPER: But one of the ways that proponents of school choice say that the best way to change the status quo is to give parents, inner-city parents a choice. Why not?
OBAMA: Well, the problem is, is that, you know, although it might benefit some kids at the top, what you're going to do is leave a lot of kids at the bottom. We don't have enough slots for every child to go into a parochial school or a private school. And what you would see is a huge drain of resources out of the public schools.
Read more at link above.
eCYBERMISSION- 6-9th Grades
Information via
LIFE of Florida homepage: http://lifeofflorida.blogspot.com/
Learning is for Everyone, Inc homepage & Forums: http://www.Learningis4everyone.org
eCYBERMISSION
http://www.ecybermi ssion.com
eCYBERMISSION is a web-based science, math and technology competition
for 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th grade teams. Your team will propose a
solution to a real problem in your community and compete for regional
and national awards. eCYBERMISSION challenges you to explore how
science, math and technology work in your world. Registration for new
season starts August 1.
LIFE of Florida homepage: http://lifeofflorida.blogspot.com/
Learning is for Everyone, Inc homepage & Forums: http://www.Learningis4everyone.org
eCYBERMISSION
http://www.ecybermi ssion.com
eCYBERMISSION is a web-based science, math and technology competition
for 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th grade teams. Your team will propose a
solution to a real problem in your community and compete for regional
and national awards. eCYBERMISSION challenges you to explore how
science, math and technology work in your world. Registration for new
season starts August 1.
Friday, June 20, 2008
-N.NM/S.CO2008 Fun Free Days - Denver
F
UN
(
AND
C
HEAP
!) F
AMILY
A
CTIVITIES
- S
UMMER
2008
All events have FREE admission unless otherwise noted.
Highlighted events have not yet posted updated information for 2008, so dates and times are estimated based on previous year’s
information. Highlighted events are new or updated since the last posting.
To add an event to this calendar, please contact Charisse Broderick King at cjbroderickking@msn.com.
FREE DAYS
Botanic Gardens – 720-864-3500 www.botanicgardens.org
Monday, July 21
Saturday, September 27
Saturday, October 18
Botanic Gardens at Chatfield Park – 303-973-3705 www.botanicgardens.org
Friday, June 6
Friday, August 1
Friday, October 3
Friday, November 7
Friday, December 5
Denver Museum of Nature and Science – 303-322-7009 www.dmns.org
Wednesday, June 25
Wednesday, August 13
Sunday, September 7
Wednesday, October 22
Sunday, December 7
Denver Art Museum - 720-865-5000 www.denverartmuseum.org
Free First Saturdays – the first Saturday of every month is free for Colorado residents
Denver Zoo – 303-376-4800 www.denverzoo.org
Tuesday, October 7
Saturday, October 18
Sunday, November 2
Sunday, November 9
Denver Firefighter‟s Museum – 303-892-1436 www.denverfirefightersmuseum.org
Saturday, August 2
Saturday, October 11
Denver Firefighter‟s Museum – 1326 Tremont Pl
Children‟s Museum – 303-433-7444 www.cmdenver.org
Free First Tuesdays – the first Tuesday of every month is free for Colorado residents from
4:00 – 8:00 pm
Hudson Gardens – www.hudsongardens.org
Sunday, June 15 – free concert too!
Thursday, September 11
Hudson Gardens – 6115 S. Santa Fe Drive in Littleton
Denver Center for the Performing Arts – www.denvercenter.
UN
(
AND
C
HEAP
!) F
AMILY
A
CTIVITIES
- S
UMMER
2008
All events have FREE admission unless otherwise noted.
Highlighted events have not yet posted updated information for 2008, so dates and times are estimated based on previous year’s
information. Highlighted events are new or updated since the last posting.
To add an event to this calendar, please contact Charisse Broderick King at cjbroderickking@msn.com.
FREE DAYS
Botanic Gardens – 720-864-3500 www.botanicgardens.org
Monday, July 21
Saturday, September 27
Saturday, October 18
Botanic Gardens at Chatfield Park – 303-973-3705 www.botanicgardens.org
Friday, June 6
Friday, August 1
Friday, October 3
Friday, November 7
Friday, December 5
Denver Museum of Nature and Science – 303-322-7009 www.dmns.org
Wednesday, June 25
Wednesday, August 13
Sunday, September 7
Wednesday, October 22
Sunday, December 7
Denver Art Museum - 720-865-5000 www.denverartmuseum.org
Free First Saturdays – the first Saturday of every month is free for Colorado residents
Denver Zoo – 303-376-4800 www.denverzoo.org
Tuesday, October 7
Saturday, October 18
Sunday, November 2
Sunday, November 9
Denver Firefighter‟s Museum – 303-892-1436 www.denverfirefightersmuseum.org
Saturday, August 2
Saturday, October 11
Denver Firefighter‟s Museum – 1326 Tremont Pl
Children‟s Museum – 303-433-7444 www.cmdenver.org
Free First Tuesdays – the first Tuesday of every month is free for Colorado residents from
4:00 – 8:00 pm
Hudson Gardens – www.hudsongardens.org
Sunday, June 15 – free concert too!
Thursday, September 11
Hudson Gardens – 6115 S. Santa Fe Drive in Littleton
Denver Center for the Performing Arts – www.denvercenter.
Sign2Speak, next workshop, solar party, signing time emmy nod
Dear Friends,
Hello and welcome to the new subscribers. For those of you who have taken the one hour intro course, don't forget our monthly playgroups. Let me know if you have a topic in mind and I'll try to work it in. The next one is Monday, June 30 at 10am at Body, Mind & Spirit.
Our next intro and workshop combo is SATURDAY, JUNE 28 from 10-11am and 11am-1pm. If you've been meaning to learn more vocabulary and other fun ways to sign with your little ones, register now. There are still spots available.
And finally, another great event I'm helping organize at Body, Mind & Spirit is the June 28th Solar Party. It's completely free and there is even free childcare, though you have to preregister for that. Read more details below.
Come One, Come All!
Summer is here! Help us celebrate summer, the sun, and energy independence and sustainability at our Solar Party on Saturday, June 28 from 4-7pm. Bring your family's favorite dish and let us know if you need childcare. Learn more nitty-gritty details here. We look forward to seeing you there.
Who: You and your family. We prefer you come with your spouse or partner and will have childcare for your kids.
What: the first Body, Mind & Spirit-sponsored energy-independence and sustainability party
When: Saturday, June 28th , 4-7pm
Where: The Source, 1111 Carlisle SE (where you see us for classes!)
Why: Because you will get useful energy-reducing ideas you can apply RIGHT AWAY, tasty vittles, like-minded company and it’s all FREE
How: Simply register online or via phone and let us know if you need childcare and for how many. Then, before you come, prepare a yummy dish to share with others and be sure to pack it with you as you load up the car. Once you arrive, send the kiddies off for their adventures and prepare to be wowed by our expert presenters as they show you how to achieve energy efficiency you’ve never dreamed possible.
What else:
* pack your own re-usable dinner ware, cups and napkins
* Tell ALL YOUR FRIENDS about this event
* Childcare IS free, but we do need to know to expect your children
UPCOMING CLASSES AND EVENTS
Saturday, June 28, 2008; 10-11am
Intro to Infant Sign Language at Body, Mind & Spirit
Learn the basics of how to "talk" with your baby before he or she can say words! Grow closer to your child, while easing frustration and more easily satisfying his or her needs. $10 plus tax.
Saturday, June 28, 2008; 11am-1pm
Sign2Speak Workshop at Body, Mind & Spirit
This follow-up workshop to Signing #1 will add to the basics of infant ASL, taking you to the next level. LOTS of vocabulary, strategies to make the signs easier to remember for both you AND baby, and more ways to keep you both excited about early communication. Join us for all this plus signing songs, games, and fun! $35 for up to two people FROM THE SAME HOUSEHOLD. This will be a fast-moving workshop and we request participants do not bring along infants or children (or else bring along another adult to care for them).
For classes beyond this, visit the Sign2speak Schedule.
Hello and welcome to the new subscribers. For those of you who have taken the one hour intro course, don't forget our monthly playgroups. Let me know if you have a topic in mind and I'll try to work it in. The next one is Monday, June 30 at 10am at Body, Mind & Spirit.
Our next intro and workshop combo is SATURDAY, JUNE 28 from 10-11am and 11am-1pm. If you've been meaning to learn more vocabulary and other fun ways to sign with your little ones, register now. There are still spots available.
And finally, another great event I'm helping organize at Body, Mind & Spirit is the June 28th Solar Party. It's completely free and there is even free childcare, though you have to preregister for that. Read more details below.
Come One, Come All!
Summer is here! Help us celebrate summer, the sun, and energy independence and sustainability at our Solar Party on Saturday, June 28 from 4-7pm. Bring your family's favorite dish and let us know if you need childcare. Learn more nitty-gritty details here. We look forward to seeing you there.
Who: You and your family. We prefer you come with your spouse or partner and will have childcare for your kids.
What: the first Body, Mind & Spirit-sponsored energy-independence and sustainability party
When: Saturday, June 28th , 4-7pm
Where: The Source, 1111 Carlisle SE (where you see us for classes!)
Why: Because you will get useful energy-reducing ideas you can apply RIGHT AWAY, tasty vittles, like-minded company and it’s all FREE
How: Simply register online or via phone and let us know if you need childcare and for how many. Then, before you come, prepare a yummy dish to share with others and be sure to pack it with you as you load up the car. Once you arrive, send the kiddies off for their adventures and prepare to be wowed by our expert presenters as they show you how to achieve energy efficiency you’ve never dreamed possible.
What else:
* pack your own re-usable dinner ware, cups and napkins
* Tell ALL YOUR FRIENDS about this event
* Childcare IS free, but we do need to know to expect your children
UPCOMING CLASSES AND EVENTS
Saturday, June 28, 2008; 10-11am
Intro to Infant Sign Language at Body, Mind & Spirit
Learn the basics of how to "talk" with your baby before he or she can say words! Grow closer to your child, while easing frustration and more easily satisfying his or her needs. $10 plus tax.
Saturday, June 28, 2008; 11am-1pm
Sign2Speak Workshop at Body, Mind & Spirit
This follow-up workshop to Signing #1 will add to the basics of infant ASL, taking you to the next level. LOTS of vocabulary, strategies to make the signs easier to remember for both you AND baby, and more ways to keep you both excited about early communication. Join us for all this plus signing songs, games, and fun! $35 for up to two people FROM THE SAME HOUSEHOLD. This will be a fast-moving workshop and we request participants do not bring along infants or children (or else bring along another adult to care for them).
For classes beyond this, visit the Sign2speak Schedule.
Zon: Online Game to Teach Chinese culture, language
Information via
LIFE of Florida homepage: http://lifeofflorida.blogspot.com/
Learning is for Everyone, Inc homepage & Forums: http://www.Learningis4everyone.org
Zon: online game to teach Chinese culture, language
As the Olympics approach and China becomes even more dominant in the
news, a Michigan State University professor has created an online
video game that teaches Chinese culture and language.
Called Zon/New Chengo, (http://enterzon. com/), the multiplayer Web-
based role-playing game was created by Yong Zhao, MSU distinguished
professor of educational psychology and technology. A native of a
poor, remote area of the Sichuan Province, he has become a highly
influential researcher in Chinese education, bringing in more than
$20 million in research to the university.
"Games are supposed to be fun and educational, " said Zhao."This game
offers a vicarious, virtual experience of China."
Complete story in Detroit Free Press:
http://www.freep. com/apps/ pbcs.dll/ article?
AID=/20080616/ BLOG01/80616010/ 1002/BUSINESS
Visit Zon at http://enterzon. com
LIFE of Florida homepage: http://lifeofflorida.blogspot.com/
Learning is for Everyone, Inc homepage & Forums: http://www.Learningis4everyone.org
Zon: online game to teach Chinese culture, language
As the Olympics approach and China becomes even more dominant in the
news, a Michigan State University professor has created an online
video game that teaches Chinese culture and language.
Called Zon/New Chengo, (http://enterzon. com/), the multiplayer Web-
based role-playing game was created by Yong Zhao, MSU distinguished
professor of educational psychology and technology. A native of a
poor, remote area of the Sichuan Province, he has become a highly
influential researcher in Chinese education, bringing in more than
$20 million in research to the university.
"Games are supposed to be fun and educational, " said Zhao."This game
offers a vicarious, virtual experience of China."
Complete story in Detroit Free Press:
http://www.freep. com/apps/ pbcs.dll/ article?
AID=/20080616/ BLOG01/80616010/ 1002/BUSINESS
Visit Zon at http://enterzon. com
Blog: Facebook Says 'Yes' to Homeschoolers
http://spunkyhomeschool.blogspot.com/2008/06/facebook-says-yes-to-homeschoolers.html
Facebook Says 'Yes' to Homeschoolers
Thursday, June 19, 2008
The world would go on just fine if this announcement had never been made, but for 1000's of homeschool kids it has now become easier to join the popular social networking site, Facebook, without compromising the verification process or site security. From the Facebook Blog,
Back in September 2006, we decided to open up Facebook to everyone. Well, almost everyone.We realized Facebook would be most useful if more people were allowed
to join, but we also weren't willing to compromise the security of the site by removing all methods of verification, especially for high school students and minors. Unfortunately this meant that most homeschoolers weren't able to register. For security purposes, users under the age of 18 were required to affiliate with their current high school, but it was nearly impossible to extend this system to homeschooled users.
We've been working on ways to solve this—we want minors to use Facebook safely above all. Today, we're happy to announce that we've recently come up with a way for homeschoolers to join. We've created a new verification system—one that doesn't depend on being in a high school, but still provides the level of security we believe is required. So welcome, everyone, to Facebook.
Facebook Says 'Yes' to Homeschoolers
Thursday, June 19, 2008
The world would go on just fine if this announcement had never been made, but for 1000's of homeschool kids it has now become easier to join the popular social networking site, Facebook, without compromising the verification process or site security. From the Facebook Blog,
Back in September 2006, we decided to open up Facebook to everyone. Well, almost everyone.We realized Facebook would be most useful if more people were allowed
to join, but we also weren't willing to compromise the security of the site by removing all methods of verification, especially for high school students and minors. Unfortunately this meant that most homeschoolers weren't able to register. For security purposes, users under the age of 18 were required to affiliate with their current high school, but it was nearly impossible to extend this system to homeschooled users.
We've been working on ways to solve this—we want minors to use Facebook safely above all. Today, we're happy to announce that we've recently come up with a way for homeschoolers to join. We've created a new verification system—one that doesn't depend on being in a high school, but still provides the level of security we believe is required. So welcome, everyone, to Facebook.
Spaceweather: Summer Solstice Brings Glow-in-the-Dark Clouds
Space Weather News for June 20, 2008
http://spaceweather.com
SUMMER SOLSTICE: Northern summer and southern winter begin today, June 20th, at precisely 23:59 UT (7:59 pm EDT) when the sun ascends to its highest latitude on the celestial sphere. In the Northern Hemisphere, we have the longest day and shortest night of the year, and the reverse in the Southern Hemisphere. The seasons are changing--Happy Solstice!
NOCTILUCENT CLOUDS: Summer is the season for noctilucent clouds and this morning, right on cue, a wave of bright NLCs rolled over the British Isles. Observers in Scotland and Northern Ireland report luminous tendrils of electric blue bright enough to attract the attention of casual passersby. These glow-in-the-dark clouds are a 100+ year old mystery under investigation now by NASA's AIM spacecraft. Originally confined to arctic latitudes, NLCs have spread in recent years with sightings in the United States as far south as Utah and Colorado. Check today's edition of http://spaceweather.com for observing tips and the latest photos.
You are subscribed to the Space Weather mailing list, a free service of Spaceweather.com.
http://spaceweather.com
SUMMER SOLSTICE: Northern summer and southern winter begin today, June 20th, at precisely 23:59 UT (7:59 pm EDT) when the sun ascends to its highest latitude on the celestial sphere. In the Northern Hemisphere, we have the longest day and shortest night of the year, and the reverse in the Southern Hemisphere. The seasons are changing--Happy Solstice!
NOCTILUCENT CLOUDS: Summer is the season for noctilucent clouds and this morning, right on cue, a wave of bright NLCs rolled over the British Isles. Observers in Scotland and Northern Ireland report luminous tendrils of electric blue bright enough to attract the attention of casual passersby. These glow-in-the-dark clouds are a 100+ year old mystery under investigation now by NASA's AIM spacecraft. Originally confined to arctic latitudes, NLCs have spread in recent years with sightings in the United States as far south as Utah and Colorado. Check today's edition of http://spaceweather.com for observing tips and the latest photos.
You are subscribed to the Space Weather mailing list, a free service of Spaceweather.com.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Home School Opportunities Make Education Sound Act of 2008
OK this is a warning before and after you read this...you might get excited...you might jump for joy...finally vindicated that homeschooling is a valid option....YAY we are finally going to get paid....Are you done?...ok so breathe....first of all these type bills come up nearly every year, they do not get any where in my experience, and remember it is an election year-----------granted this one is not asking for us as homeschoolers to list and itemize all homeschooling purchases and many of us could say that almost everything relates to homeschooling that we pay for in some way or another....AND I do not know what proof parents who send their kids to private school are asked to turn in to prove that they are actually sending their kids to a private school....BUT I just want to keep you informed of events in politics. Think about it carefully, how many hoops would they ask us to jump through to get this money? Are you willing to sell your 'homeschool soul' for money? Yes, yes, yes I know what you are thinking we could ALL use the money as most of us are struggling to get by BUT is it worth it to have the federal government more in our lives? Just think about it--please feel free to start a repectful discussion--or talk amongst yourselves ( I am feeling so verklempt over this...lol..whoa SNL Flashback) --Tabbi
Information via LIFE of Florida homepage: http://lifeofflorida.blogspot.com/
Learning is for Everyone, Inc homepage & Forums: http://www.Learningis4everyone.org
I've been trying to find a moment to learn more about LA SenatorDavid Vitter's bill to amend the US tax code to provide taxdeductions for homeschoolers. I've looked it over and I'm still,personally, undecided on the wisdom of this bill. I'd enjoy hearingother's thoughts on it.
On the one hand, it would certainly seem to open to the door tolegislating homeschooling – what expenses would be covered, whichones wouldn't, and why? Who decides, and then what else can bedecided with respect to how we homeschool. On the other hand. Anddespite Vitter's suggestion that private school families are affordedsome kind of "relief" for their educational choices, other thanvouchers, there doesn't seem to be any kind of IRS provision alongthe lines of what he's asking for homeschoolers provided to privateschoolers.
If we really want to provide tax relief to people who choose a formof education outside of public schools, it seems all forms ofalternative education should be equally included.
On the other hand, I know a lot of people would really appreciate andbenefit from the type of relief offered in this bill.
Thoughts?
http://thomas. loc.gov/cgi- bin/query/ D?c110:1: ./temp/~c110EhBy Tc::Home School Opportunities Make Education Sound Act of 2008(Introduced in Senate)S 3076 IS
To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide a tax deductionfor itemizers and nonitemizers for expenses relating to homeschooling.
The bill was introduced by Senator David Vitterhttp://vitter. senate.gov/ ?module=pressroo m/pressitem& ID=dbcdcfb0- d6a1-4acb-ae61-cfd76b18c 8c0 to "provide education-related tax relief tofamilies who home school their children. The Home SchoolOpportunities Make Education Sound Act would allow home schoolfamilies to take advantage of tax deductions to help alleviateeducation-related expenses. "
From his website:
"Like those who choose to send their children to privateschools, home school families pay an inequitable share of education-related expenses," said Vitter. "Even as they pay for expendituresrelated to home school activities, they fund public schools throughtheir tax dollars. We need to provide them with the same reliefoffered to private school families, and this bill is intended to dojust that, by minimizing the financial burden of these families."
Vitter's bill provides for a deduction of $500 per childwith an annual limit of $2,000 for expenses related to K-12homeschooling activities. For families that do not itemize theirtaxes, the bill would allow for a standardized deduction of $500 perchild, not to exceed $2,000 in one year. Families with children whoattend private schools are already eligible for education-related taxbenefits.
"All families should be provided with a full spectrum ofchoices when it comes to the education of their children," Vittersaid. "We need to take the necessary steps to remove the unduefinancial burdens that are currently placed on home school families.As individuals empower themselves to take responsibility for theproper education of their children, we should in turn provide themwith the appropriate tools to do so. To that end, this legislationis a positive step in that process."
Other thoughts on this effort:
The Informed Parent: http://www.tiprr. com/blog/ ?p=96HEM Blog: http://www.homeedma g.com/blogs/ newscomm/ ?p=1521
And I'll be blogging my .02 on it as I learn (and process) more atProgressive Homeschoolers of FL:http://progressiveh omeschoolersoffl orida.blogspot. com
Follow the Bill's progress here:http://www.govtrack .us/congress/ bill.xpd? bill=s110- 3076
Information via LIFE of Florida homepage: http://lifeofflorida.blogspot.com/
Learning is for Everyone, Inc homepage & Forums: http://www.Learningis4everyone.org
I've been trying to find a moment to learn more about LA SenatorDavid Vitter's bill to amend the US tax code to provide taxdeductions for homeschoolers. I've looked it over and I'm still,personally, undecided on the wisdom of this bill. I'd enjoy hearingother's thoughts on it.
On the one hand, it would certainly seem to open to the door tolegislating homeschooling – what expenses would be covered, whichones wouldn't, and why? Who decides, and then what else can bedecided with respect to how we homeschool. On the other hand. Anddespite Vitter's suggestion that private school families are affordedsome kind of "relief" for their educational choices, other thanvouchers, there doesn't seem to be any kind of IRS provision alongthe lines of what he's asking for homeschoolers provided to privateschoolers.
If we really want to provide tax relief to people who choose a formof education outside of public schools, it seems all forms ofalternative education should be equally included.
On the other hand, I know a lot of people would really appreciate andbenefit from the type of relief offered in this bill.
Thoughts?
http://thomas. loc.gov/cgi- bin/query/ D?c110:1: ./temp/~c110EhBy Tc::Home School Opportunities Make Education Sound Act of 2008(Introduced in Senate)S 3076 IS
To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide a tax deductionfor itemizers and nonitemizers for expenses relating to homeschooling.
The bill was introduced by Senator David Vitterhttp://vitter. senate.gov/ ?module=pressroo m/pressitem& ID=dbcdcfb0- d6a1-4acb-ae61-cfd76b18c 8c0 to "provide education-related tax relief tofamilies who home school their children. The Home SchoolOpportunities Make Education Sound Act would allow home schoolfamilies to take advantage of tax deductions to help alleviateeducation-related expenses. "
From his website:
"Like those who choose to send their children to privateschools, home school families pay an inequitable share of education-related expenses," said Vitter. "Even as they pay for expendituresrelated to home school activities, they fund public schools throughtheir tax dollars. We need to provide them with the same reliefoffered to private school families, and this bill is intended to dojust that, by minimizing the financial burden of these families."
Vitter's bill provides for a deduction of $500 per childwith an annual limit of $2,000 for expenses related to K-12homeschooling activities. For families that do not itemize theirtaxes, the bill would allow for a standardized deduction of $500 perchild, not to exceed $2,000 in one year. Families with children whoattend private schools are already eligible for education-related taxbenefits.
"All families should be provided with a full spectrum ofchoices when it comes to the education of their children," Vittersaid. "We need to take the necessary steps to remove the unduefinancial burdens that are currently placed on home school families.As individuals empower themselves to take responsibility for theproper education of their children, we should in turn provide themwith the appropriate tools to do so. To that end, this legislationis a positive step in that process."
Other thoughts on this effort:
The Informed Parent: http://www.tiprr. com/blog/ ?p=96HEM Blog: http://www.homeedma g.com/blogs/ newscomm/ ?p=1521
And I'll be blogging my .02 on it as I learn (and process) more atProgressive Homeschoolers of FL:http://progressiveh omeschoolersoffl orida.blogspot. com
Follow the Bill's progress here:http://www.govtrack .us/congress/ bill.xpd? bill=s110- 3076
Intelligent By Design- Science Classes & More for kids
Did you get to meet Karen at the New Mexico Home School Community Fair 2008? Her table looked like a science fair and I saw a lot of families stopping to talk to her. This amazing lady holds classes using the science program Real Science-4-Kids on Chemistry, Biology and Physics--Grades K-9. She combines the best of group learning with individual success in experiments and knowledge.
http://www.ibd-kids.com/about/about.htm
Check out her upcoming course schedule and list of classes offered Fall 2008 here:
http://www.ibd-kids.com/courses/courses.htm
**To those of you who might not take a look at this curriculum or these classes because it does not match your belief system I would say give it a closer look. They are taught as just straight science with personal beliefs aside and as I have said before it is one of the best science programs out there. I can personally attest to this and you are welcome to email me.
http://www.ibd-kids.com/about/about.htm
Check out her upcoming course schedule and list of classes offered Fall 2008 here:
http://www.ibd-kids.com/courses/courses.htm
**To those of you who might not take a look at this curriculum or these classes because it does not match your belief system I would say give it a closer look. They are taught as just straight science with personal beliefs aside and as I have said before it is one of the best science programs out there. I can personally attest to this and you are welcome to email me.
Gravitas Publications- Real Science-4-Kids
If you came to the New Mexico Home School Community Fair 2008 and got a chance to meet some of the hard working people behind this great company you were probably surprised to find out that they are based right here in Albuquerque!!
What an honor it is to have hands down one of the best science programs for kids (K-9) and adults (because we learn while the kids learn)<--my personal opinion there as I have seen a lot of science programs but none that really compare to the ease of use and clear explanations of these books.
Check them out they might work for your family:
http://www.gravitaspublications.com/
Their new Kogs workbooks that go along with the science are just amazing--> Technology, Critical Thinking, History, Language Arts, Art, and Philosophy.
What an honor it is to have hands down one of the best science programs for kids (K-9) and adults (because we learn while the kids learn)<--my personal opinion there as I have seen a lot of science programs but none that really compare to the ease of use and clear explanations of these books.
Check them out they might work for your family:
http://www.gravitaspublications.com/
Their new Kogs workbooks that go along with the science are just amazing--> Technology, Critical Thinking, History, Language Arts, Art, and Philosophy.
Albuquerque: Westside Park Day
10AM Terrazas Park
Thursday, June 19
All ages welcome!
Go to Google and hit 'maps' in the top left, type in 'Terrazas Park Albuquerque' and you can see a map.
Parks will be rotated weekly throughout Ventana Ranch, Paradise Hills and Taylor Ranch areas.
For more information:
Raven heygorgeous3@aol.com
Amber ambern_leinhos@yahoo.com
Kristine kld2569@juno.com
Thursday, June 19
All ages welcome!
Go to Google and hit 'maps' in the top left, type in 'Terrazas Park Albuquerque' and you can see a map.
Parks will be rotated weekly throughout Ventana Ranch, Paradise Hills and Taylor Ranch areas.
For more information:
Raven heygorgeous3@aol.com
Amber ambern_leinhos@yahoo.com
Kristine kld2569@juno.com
Monday, June 16, 2008
New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science
www.nmnaturalhistory.org
Miss out on seeing the educational resources the museum has to offer both homeschool teaches and students at the New Mexico Home School Community Fair? From prehistoric preschool to outreach to volunteering to learning opportunities for homeschool teachers check it all out here http://www.nmnaturalhistory.org/edu_main.html
And more amazing is that they have a fabulous new exhibit called "Dawn of the Dinosaurs" the ONLY Triassic Hall in North America featuring Coelophysis, New Mexico's State Dinosaur! And while you are there going back in time be sure to see the new Dynamax Theatre presentation of 'Dinosaurs Alive' with creatures from the Triassic to the Cretaceous!
There is an upcoming Bosque Education Teacher Workshop coming up on June 30th--see contact info on the website linked above to see if there are still spaces available!
This museum is a largely untapped resouce for the homeschooling community on topics in and around New Mexico and beyond...even to Mars and back, so check it out today!
Need another reason to check them out? The Sandia Mountain Natural History Center in the Sandia Mountains http://www.nmnaturalhistory.org/smnhc/
Miss out on seeing the educational resources the museum has to offer both homeschool teaches and students at the New Mexico Home School Community Fair? From prehistoric preschool to outreach to volunteering to learning opportunities for homeschool teachers check it all out here http://www.nmnaturalhistory.org/edu_main.html
And more amazing is that they have a fabulous new exhibit called "Dawn of the Dinosaurs" the ONLY Triassic Hall in North America featuring Coelophysis, New Mexico's State Dinosaur! And while you are there going back in time be sure to see the new Dynamax Theatre presentation of 'Dinosaurs Alive' with creatures from the Triassic to the Cretaceous!
There is an upcoming Bosque Education Teacher Workshop coming up on June 30th--see contact info on the website linked above to see if there are still spaces available!
This museum is a largely untapped resouce for the homeschooling community on topics in and around New Mexico and beyond...even to Mars and back, so check it out today!
Need another reason to check them out? The Sandia Mountain Natural History Center in the Sandia Mountains http://www.nmnaturalhistory.org/smnhc/
Puppetnettes-- Puppetmaking & Stories from the Philippines
Do your kids like to act out stories and do arts and crafts? Then they would love learning how to make shadow puppets and marionettes and learning stories from the Philippines!!
http://www.kidstale-nm.com/
Miss out on the puppet making at the New Mexico Home School Community Fair 2008? Set up a class for your group today or check out her schedule to see where she will be next!
http://www.kidstale-nm.com/
Miss out on the puppet making at the New Mexico Home School Community Fair 2008? Set up a class for your group today or check out her schedule to see where she will be next!
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