Victorian Fun!

American Heritage Girls Troop FL1230 (and siblings) visited the Thomas County Historical Society this week. They learned about the history of Thomas County and toured a log house, a middle class Victorian house, and bowled in an original private Victorian bowling alley.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT AHG

YouTube Connection: Kids Zumba

It can be hard to exercise when you have children. They easiest solution I have found is to exercise with them. My children and  I enjoy hiking, walking (urban hiking), swimming, and now KIDS ZUMBA!

We sent YouTube to the television and did a few videos at home. Then

Photo courtesy of Thomasville YMCA

we went to Kids Zumba at the Thomasville YMCA. It was sooo much fun, and Jenny did a great job leading the class. She has such an engaging personality, and she was able to keep the attention of all of the children for 50 minutes! That's an impressive feat! If you want to join us, check out the schedule here. Kids Zumba is on Monday at 4:30, in the Community Room. 

Here's a selection of videos for you to enjoy. Just push back the couch and chairs, call the kids, and have a great time bustin' a move together! 

I'm a Gummy Bear-- this is Daniel's favorite


Hamster Dance


What Does the Fox Say?


Not Zumba, but still fun: The Sid Shuffle

Reed Bingham Science Programs

Reed Bingham State Park is hosting Homeschool Days.

On these days, the interpretive rangers will give programs on various naturalist topics.

January 10
Introduction to Adaptations

February 14
Adaptation of Reptiles and Amphibians

Session 1
Students ages 9 and under
10am to 12pm

Session 2
Students ages 10 and up
1pm to 3pm


They only cost $3.00 per child (wow!!) + $5 parking

For more info contact:
Tanner Ueltzen
Interpretive Ranger
Reed Bingham State Park
229-896-3551

Thanks to Sherry Titus-Daughtry for the scoop!

FRIENDS in Bainbridge

Here is another co-op in Bainbridge, but I am not certain that it is active.

They have a Yahoo board at:

FRIENDSinBainbridgeGeorgia@yahoogroups.com

Contact: Tonya Austinson, muchosninos2000@yahoo.com, 229-246-5419

I will attempt to make contact and update the post.

UPDATE: This group is no longer active. They have joined Port City Academics.

CQ...CQ...Amateur Radio Classes

CQ...CQ...CQ...This is KI4BIU.

Amateur Radio is a great hobby for children. They learn about electronics, broadcast theory, all the while meeting new people over the airwaves! They can even bounce signals off the moon, around the world, or to astronauts in space. Amateur radio operators also prepare to serve the community's communications needs in the event of a disaster.

In order to operate on amateur radio frequencies, one must have a license. There is no age limit for the license; all you have to do is pass a test.

The Thomasville Amateur Radio Club will be offering classes in February to help people learn more about

radio and prepare for their exam or upgrade.

There are several children in this club—they even have their own kids' radio meeting. I think the youngest member is 7. My eldest son passed the test when he was 12 (making three ham radio operators in the family so far).

AMATEUR RADIO CLASSES
OFFERED BY: Thomasville Amateur Radio Club
DATES: February 15 and 22
TIME: 9-4, both days
Test sessions begin at 4, both days
PRICE: Classes are FREE. Book is $15. Testing is $14. Valid IDs required.

For more information, contact Mike Brown, KE4FGF at ke4fgf@arrl.net or at 229-226-5060

Here's another help: practice tests are available online HERE, courtesy of QRZ.

73s!

Museum of Fla. History Annual Children's Day

Museum of Florida History

Date(s): 1/25/2014
10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Museum of Florida History, 500 South Bronough St, Tallahassee, FL 32301

The 31st Annual Children’s Day at the Museum of Florida History

Join the fun of Children’s Day at the Museum of Florida History on January 25 from 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. This popular family event offers a plethora of performers, exhibitors, and history. Visitors can enjoy exciting performances by the African Caribbean Dance Theatre, Young Actors Theatre, Trousdell Gymnastics, and many others. Activities such as face painting, balloon animals, hands-on history, and free bicycle helmets presented by the Pilot Club, ensure a fun-filled day for people of all ages.

Parking and admission are free. Some activities require tickets that can be purchased at the event or in advance at the Museum gift shop. Lunch is available for purchase from The Egg Express Café in the Museum lobby. For more information call 850.245.6400 or go to museumoffloridahistory.com.


Museum of Florida History
850 245 6400
gary.pettit@dos.myflorida.com

Blacksmithing, Basket Making, and Hog Butchering Class

BLACKSMITHING CLASS
Date(s): 1/18/2014
8 a.m
Panhandle Pioneer Settlement 17869 NW Pioneer Settlement Rd Blountstown, FL 32424
The Panhandle Pioneer Settlement will be having a Blacksmithing Class. On Saturday, January 18, 2014, starting at 8 a.m. CST. If you enjoy hands on experience, this is the place to be. Come join us in the art of shaping heated iron and steel (forging) with hand tools such as hammers, tongs and chisels on an anvil. All will enjoy this experience at the Panhandle Pioneer Settlement at 17869 NW Pioneer Settlement Rd, Blountstown, Florida 32424.
This will be an all day event so pack your lunch. Required items: Gloves and Safety Glasses.
There are limited slots available so call or email now to reserve your slot. The cost of this class is a $45.00. A $25 deposit fee is required for your reservation which goes toward the cost of the class. For more information, call 674-2777; Or email: ppsmuseum@yahoo.com
Diane Watson
(850) 674-2777
ppsmuseum@yahoo.com




Basket Making Class
Date(s): 1/25/2014
9:00 am
Panhandle Pioneer Settlement 17869 NW Pioneer Settlement Rd Blountstown, FL 32424
On Saturday, January 25, 2014 starting at 9:00 am CDT at the Panhandle Pioneer Settlement's Clubhouse you can discover the joy of basket weaving an heirloom Gathering Basket. This sturdy basket is woven on a 1” square hoop and is perfect for taking to the farmer’s market, gathering vegetables or flowers from your garden. Instruction will include basic basket weaving techniques and would be appropriate for both beginner and intermediate weavers. Weave the basket then use your creativity with natural materials to embellish and make it your very own!
All basketry materials will be supplied. Attendees should bring heavy shears and an old bath towel.
Diane Watson
(850) 674-2777
ppsmuseum@yahoo.com




Hog Butchering Class
Date(s): 1/16/2014
8:00 am CDT
Panhandle Pioneer Settlement 17869 NW Pioneer Settlement Rd Blountstown, FL 32424
On Thursday, January 16, 2014 starting at 8:00 am CDT the Panhandle Pioneer Settlement will hold a Hog Butchering Class. The class will teach killing, butchering, and preservation techniques. This is a hands-on class and will give you the knowledge and experience necessary for dressing your own hogs. This class has limited spots available so don't hesitate to sign up. The class is $25.00 per person with a mandatory $10.00 deposit. Please call Diane Watson at (850) 674-2777 or send an email at ppsmuseum@yahoo.com.
Diane Watson
(850) 674-2777
ppsmuseum@yahoo.com

Florida Capitol Explorer Saturday

Explorer Saturdays at the Historic Capitol

10:00AM - 4:00PM

Florida Historic Capitol Museum

Visit the Historic Capitol on any Saturday through the end of December 2013 and participate in a series of special family-friendly activities designed to help you explore the Museum! Explorer Saturday programs include special scavenger hunts, take-home coloring pages, and visits to our treasure chest at the end of every scavenger hunt! All activities are free and open to the public.

Free Admission to U.S. National Wildlife Refuges

Ooo! Free admission to U.S. National Wildlife Refuges on some holidays next year!

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
President's Day Weekend
National Public Lands Day (October 12)
Veteran's Day




US National Wildlife Refuges in Georgia

US National Wildlife Refuges in Florida

The Maritime World of Juan Ponce de Leon

From Claude J. Kenneson:

On January 9, 2014, Peter A. Cowdrey, Exhibit Research Specialist, from the Florida Historic Capitol Museum will present a PowerPoint program entitled The Maritime World of Juan Ponce de Leon to the Tallahassee Historical Society.

It offers participants the opportunity to relive the maritime world of Ponce de Leon, to explore the navigational procedures and early charts of waters adjacent to Florida, and to follow Ponce de Leon to Florida in 1513. In addition to the PowerPoint slides, it will feature replicas of charts and several hands-on instruments of navigation common to the world of Ponce de Leon.
The program incorporates photographs taken at the Museum of Florida History's permanent exhibit, Forever Changed: La Florida, 1513-1821. All are invited to visit the Museum of Florida History at 500 South Bronough Street in Tallahassee to see and explore its exhibits further.

The Tallahassee Historical Society meets on the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m., at the B. Calvin Jones Center for Archaeology, at the Governor Martin House, located off E. Lafayette St., between Seminole Drive and Myers Park Drive. FREE and open to the public.

I have been to a few of these lectures. They are always well done, and the speakers are always open to questions.

Southern Oaks Equestrian Day Camp

Neigh!!

I hear from a reliable source that Santa got his start in horses before moving on to reindeer. He recommends Southern Oaks Equestrian on the eastern side of Tallahassee (close to Monticello). 

Southern Oaks is offering day camps next Monday and Friday (the week of Christmas) from 9-3. Early drop-off and late pick-up are available, too. Camps include riding lessons and other activities for kids ages 6 and up. Kids will need to bring a bag lunch.

A New Year's Camp will be held Tuesday through Thursday, the 31st through the 2nd.

For more information, call 850-566-5212. 

CLICK HERE FOR THE SOUTHERN OAKS WEBSITE!

"Below is a video of a wild mustang mare I trained, just 100 days out of the wild. This particular mare was very aggressive, charging and striking at humans. One of the most dangerous horses I have ever seen. Not willing to give up on a horse, I persisted, and had a wonderful outcome, as shown below, for the horse. There is no telling what would have happened to Splash had I decided to give up, and she is now living a wonderful life! I had every opportunity to give up, and every reason to based on her behavior, but I am sure glad I did not. This video is 100 days out of the wild, with only 85 days of riding." (excerpt from the Southern Oaks Equestrian website)

History Fair Meeting Schedule

History Fair season is fast approaching. Here is a schedule of upcoming meetings in preparation for National History Day (homeschool edition!). 

PARENT ORIENTATION

Learn about National History Day, this year's themes, how to help your student research and complete a project

DATE: January 7

TIME: 10:00am

COST: Free 

LOCATION: 

Thomas County Historical Society

725 Dawson Street

Thomasville, Georgia, 31792

MAKE-UP PARENT ORIENTATION MEETING

A rehash of information for those parent who are unable to attend the first meeting

DATE: January 21

TIME: 7:00pm

COST: Free

LOCATION:

Thomas County Public Library

201 N. Madison Street

Thomasville, Georgia, 31792

STUDENT ORIENTATION MEETING

The students' opportunity to learn about National History Day and how to choose and develop a project in line with this year's theme

DATE: February 7

TIME: 10:00am

COST: Free

LOCATION: 

Thomas County Historical Society

725 Dawson Street

Thomasville, Georgia, 31792

STUDENT RESEARCH INTENSIVE

Students will learn what resources are available to them as they begin to research their topics. Students will also learn basic researching techniques. 

DATE: February 27

TIME: 10:00am

COST: Thomas County Residents- Free, Others- TBD

LOCATION:

Thomas County Historical Society

725 Dawson Street

Thomasville, Georgia, 31792

REGISTRATION DUE DATE

DATE: March 1, 2014

COST: $8

RESEARCH ASSISTANCE

Students will receive advice and support in their research efforts

DATE: March 13

TIME: 10:00am

COST: Free

LOCATION: 

Thomas County Historical Society

725 Dawson Street

Thomasville, Georgia, 31792

HISTORY FAIR

DATE: May 8

LOCATION: TBD

MORE INFORMATION!!

American Heritage Girls Earn Awards

American Heritage Girls Troop FL1230 held a winter awards ceremony yesterday to honor the achievements the girls' have made this first semester of activities.

Girls received awards for:

Troop Service Projects
Individual Service Projects
Fundraising
Camping
Outstanding Achievement (Level Awards)

and BADGES GALORE!!

Congratulations to all of the girls involved!

American Heritage Girls-- Faith. Service. Fun!

Winter Solstice Celebration at Birdsong

Credit: Birdsong Website

A WINTER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION
Saturday, December 21
5:00PM - 10:00 PM
Cost: $8 adults, $5 children

Join us to light the bonfire in honor of the Winter Solstice and celebrate the memory of our co-founders Betty and Ed Komarek.

Our schedule for the evening:

4pm to 5pm - Arrive early, bring your own hot or cold drinks, a picnic supper, lawn chairs or blanket, and settle in to enjoy the evening. (Please see note below.)

5pm - Listen to the music and angelic voice of Velma Frye.

5:45pm - Welcome and lighting of the bonfire, accompanied by Bradley White and friends on their didgeridoos.

Once the bonfire is going strong, we will “throw the bamboo”. Each person will be given a bamboo stick to throw in the fire where it will explode and create good intentions for the coming year.

Around 6:30pm - We will walk out to the Star Pasture for a guided observation of the night sky on the actual day of the Winter Solstice. Dress for the weather, bring a blanket to lie on to observe the stars, and bring your binoculars or scope for viewing and a flashlight.

Rest of the evening: Contemplate the Universe with your family and friends, warm up around the bonfire, and enjoy more didgeridoo music.

It is our hope that this evening will give you a moment to connect with nature, to be with your friends, to consider what really matters to you at this time of year, and experience some peace and quiet under the night sky before heading back to a busy holiday season.

Please R.S.V.P. and leave your email address or phone number, so that in case of rain we can contact you. This is an all-outdoor event. At this time of year there is always a chance of rain, so please pay attention to the weather and call before you come if you have questions. If it rains several days in advance it can soak the ground and the bonfire, which won’t have time to dry out.

Dress for the weather and remember to bring: drinks, a picnic supper (no food will be available), blanket, lawn chairs, flashlight, and binoculars.

Contact us at: birdsong@birdsongnaturecenter.org, 1-800-953-BIRD(2473), or 1-229-377-4408.

* Please note: Traditionally we have prepared a meal and hot drinks for the Winter Solstice event, which were included in the cost. To simplify this event and make it easier on our volunteers at this busy time of year, we will forego including a meal and drinks, and invite you to bring your own refreshments and a picnic supper. The rest of the event will remain the same as past years, and the price cut in half - now $8 adults, $5 children. 

Thomasville Entertainment Foundation

It's not every town that can bring outstanding, big-name performances to a small, 500-seat auditorium. This is the goal of the Thomasville Entertainment Foundation. TEF cooperates with the Thomasville Center of the Arts to bring high class culture to Thomasville.


Look at this season's schedule:

Jon Nakamatsu (pianist)-- Thursday, January 30, 8 PM

Guitar Passions, Sharon Isbin, Stanley Jordan, Romero Luambo-- Saturday, February 15, 8 PM

New York Chamber Soloists-- Thursday, March 20, 8 PM

Diane Schuur (vocalist, pianist)-- Thursday, April 3, 8 PM

WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TICKETS

Activity Information for Elementary Marine Biology Camp

Camp planning is coming along well. All of the activities have been chosen and outlined. Students will arrive each day to a coloring page. They will then participate in four activities, with time set aside for snack and educational videos relating to the subjects of the day. 

Only 6 more spots available!




Elementary Marine Biology Camp

Monday: Oceanography

1. Earth's Water Comparison-- Where is all of Earth's water?
2. Shoebox Topography-- Explore and map an unknown ocean territory
3. Ocean Waves & Tides-- Watch and experience waves and tides
4. Currents-- Watch a current develop

Tuesday: Marine Botany

1. Photosynthesis-- Visualize photosynthesis
2. Algae-- Create algae press specimens
3. Kelp-- Build a kelp forest
4. Phytoplankton-- Build and race your own phytoplankton

Wednesday: Marine Zoology (Invertebrates)

1. Microscopy-- Examine algae, diatoms, and protozoans under a microscope
2. Bilateral Symmetry-- Create bilateral symmetry
3. Adaptation-- How does an octopus flee predators?
4. Invertebrates-- Make your own sea urchin and jellyfish

Thursday: Marine Zoology (Vertebrates)

1. Osteicthyse-- Build a fish
2. Whales-- Measure a whale, learn size comparison
3. Sea Turtles-- Rescue nests, determine hatchling survival
4. Ornithology-- Seabird Mobile

Friday: Ecosystems

1. Abyss-- Glowing fish sticks
2. Salt Marshes-- How do salt marshes protect the land?
3. Coral Reefs-- Build a coral polyp

Week-long project: Work with the class to build two ocean dioramas.

Ages: 6-10
Dates: May 26-30, 2014
Time: 9am-12pm
Location: Thomasville
Price: $60 per student, pre-registration, pre-pay required

Students must bring: shoebox, 2 clean 2-liter bottles

Field Trip: June 7, 2014 (day trip)
Price: TBA, not included with class
Location: Jekyll Island

History Fair Approaches!

Are you planning for the final semester of the year? Now is the time to think about history fair! Check out the website for the schedule outline and begin brainstorming today!

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION!

Thomasville Homeschool Science Fair RESULTS!

LOWER ELEMENTARY

FIRST PLACE- DANIEL SLAUGHTER

SECOND PLACE- BENJAMIN SLAUGHTER

THIRD PLACE- KELLAN DAUGHTRY

UPPER ELEMENTARY

FIRST PLACE- HAVEN DANGLER

SECOND PLACE- MATTHEW SLAUGHTER

THIRD PLACE- REBEKAH SLAUGHTER

MIDDLE SCHOOL

FIRST PLACE- DAVID SLAUGHTER

SCIENCE FAIR OVERALL

FIRST PLACE- HAVEN DANGLER

SECOND PLACE- DANIEL SLAUGHTER

THIRD PLACE- MATTHEW SLAUGHTER

Congratulations!

THANKS TO OUR JUDGES, 

WALTER RUSSELL

AND

AVERY COPELAND!

THANKS TO ALL THE PARTICIPANTS FOR THEIR HARD WORK, AND THANKS TO ALLWHO MADE THE SCIENCE FAIR SUCH A SUCCESS!

What do you do when you get sick on science fair day? Why use science, of course!

Kellan Daughtry was under the weather today (get well soon, buddy!), so he skyped with the judges in order to participate in the fair.

Awesome!

Summer Classes: Economics and Marine Biology

Reading, writing, arithmetic. We all focus on those, as we should. Sometimes, though, other important subjects can fall to the wayside.

Here are two opportunities to catch some of these auxiliary subjects!

The first is an Economics Intensive. Students will use Whatever Happened to Penny Candy? to learn about money, inflation, recessions, taxes, investments, etc.

Marine Biology will be offered in two sessions: the first for elementary aged students and the second for middle and high school students. Both groups will then travel to Jekyll Island to see the newly-learned concepts in action. I took a similar class when I was a child, and I still remember my wonder when we caught a small shark at the beach. It was a formative experience!

A dissection class will also be offered. That's a formaldehyde experience.

CLICK BELOW FOR MORE INFORMATION!

Prices and locations are still in the planning stages and are subject to change.

ECONOMICS INTENSIVE

MARINE BIOLOGY CAMP

December Skies Over Tallahassee

THIS Saturday, December 7, 2013 @ 10:00 a.m.

Come downtown to the Challenger Learning Center Digital Dome Theatre and Planetarium and enjoy a free planetarium show on December 7 at 10 a.m. 

December Skies over Tallahassee will be presented by the Tallahassee Astronomical Society. The December sky over Tallahassee will be reviewed including prominent constellations, stars and planet positions.

Stick around for the 11:00 a.m. showing of Holiday Music Magic. This show will be 50% off per ticket for each guest who attends the 10:00 a.m. free Planetarium show.