Sign up now for Homeschool Recreation Group At Star Hill Athletic Family Center in Tolland, Ct.

Sign up now for Homeschool Recreation Group  At Star Hill Athletic Family Center in Tolland, Ct.   The  next 6 week session starts on Friday, January 3 at 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM. Activities will be planned each week on the turf fields, basketball/volleyball courts, and the indoor track. Children ages 4-16 will enjoy activities in both smaller age-appropriate groups and larger groups. While the kids are playing, Moms and Dads are welcome to use the track in the dome to get their exercise! Pre-registration is required for this program. $35 per child for members, $45 per child for non-members. Please register your children by Wednesday January 1, 2014  To register online click on this link: http://www.starhillsports.com/vacation-week/home-school-programs   Also on Wednesdays there is  Homeschool Swim; enjoy fun and games in the  indoor pool. $5 per person. Star Hill members free. 12:30pm - 2:00pm. Wednesday swim time usually includes time for free swim and then structured games. Children wearing flotation devices must be accompanied by a parent in the water. No pre-registration for this program.   Star Hill Athletic Family Center 100 Gerber Drive   Tolland, Ct   860-871-8800

LEGO BUILD & GINGERBREAD HOUSES DEC 1st!

Passing this along from Jen Fahey.......

LEGO BUILD & GINGERBREAD HOUSES DEC 1st!

Come build with Legos AND visit the Gingerbread Houses on the same day! It is a great way to spend some time together on Sunday, Dec. 1st. Or a great way for one parent to have some fun with the kids while the other gets some Christmas shopping done. 

Here are the details - 

There will be a Lego Build on Dec. 1st at the Scout Hall, 28 Abbe Rd, East Windsor, from 2 - 4. If you didn't attend last month, we now have 40,000 Lego bricks and the possibilities are endless.  The Duplo bricks are even more amazing with this new donation.  We also have more "pink" Lego bricks since a few more sets were purchased last week to add to the collection.  

The Gingerbread House Festival is open Sunday, Dec. 1st from 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., at the Wood Memorial Library, 783 Main Street, South Windsor, CT, which is only 5 miles down the road from the Scout Hall! Visit www.woodmemoriallibrary.org for more info and pictures from past years. 

And don't forget, there is a Dunkin' Donuts at the intersection of Route 5 and Abbe Road if you need something warm (and caffeinated).

NO Recreation Program this Friday at Star Hill Athletic Family Center

Passing this along.....


Just a reminder that due to our Lifestyles Expo this weekend, there will not be Home School recreation class this Friday, November 8th at Star Hill Athletic Family Center.

We will see you all next Friday, November 15th.  Please come to the expo on Saturday (9am-4pm).  Bring the family, there is plenty to do for everyone.  Visit the expo's website for more information (www.lifestylesexpoct.com). 

Call the facility with any questions. 

Star Hill Athletic Family Center
100 Gerber Drive

Tolland, Ct

860-871-8800

Homeschool Survey

Passing this along.....

Hello Homeschool Families,

 

My name is Carleigh Schultz and I am the coordinator of Excursions in Learning Youth Programs at Manchester Community College.  Excursions is a non-profit, state program whose main goal and mission is to provide unique classes and learning opportunities to the youth in our community.

 

We are currently in the process of creating a BRAND NEW program designed specifically for homeschooled students, but we need your help!  I am hoping that you can please take 5 minutes to complete this 5 question survey to help us gain more information about your needs as an educator, a parent and a member of our community.  We are creating this program for you and you can be part of the planning process!

 

Our survey can be found here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/SWN5D7S

 

Thank you so much for your time!  Your feedback is so valuable to us.  If you have any questions or would like to speak further to me about this project, you may reach me by phone or email below.

Thank you again!

 

Carleigh

Carleigh Schultz

Coordinator of Youth Programs

cschultz@manchestercc.edu

860-512-2804 (o) | 860-512-2801 (f)

Sign up now for the next session of Homeschool Recreation Group

Sign up now for the next session of Homeschool Recreation Group At Star Hill Athletic Family Center in Tolland, Ct.

The next 6 week session starts on Friday October 25 at 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM. Please note: there will be no class on Friday, Nov. 29.
 Activities will be planned each week on the turf fields, basketball/volleyball courts, and the indoor track. Children ages 4-16 will enjoy activities in both smaller age-appropriate groups and larger groups. While the kids are playing, Moms and Dads are welcome to use the track in the dome to get their exercise! Pre-registration is required for this program. $35 per child for members, $45 per child for non-members.
Please register your children by Wednesday October 23, 2013

To register online click on this link:
http://www.starhillsports.com/vacation-week/home-school-programs

Also on Wednesdays there is  Homeschool Swim; enjoy fun and games in the  indoor pool. $5 per person. Star Hill members free. 12:30pm - 2:00pm. Wednesday swim time usually includes time for free swim and then structured games. Children wearing flotation devices must be accompanied by a parent in the water. No pre-registration for this program.

Star Hill Athletic Family Center
100 Gerber Drive

Tolland, Ct

860-871-8800

Celebrating the Sun Library Program

Passing this along....

Celebrating the Sun

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

10:30 am

Windsor Locks Public Library
 28 Main St, Windsor Locks, Ct. 

Windsor Locks Public Library is having a program Celebrating the Sun for homeschoolers. Participants will learn about the sun and its relationship to the planets and the NASA ESA Soho solar observation space craft. Children will also be using telescopes to observe sun spots. This is a program suitable for children ages eight and up. For questions or to register call 860-627-1495.

Lego builds start this Wednesday

Passing this along from Jen Fahey, please contact her at jen@faheyfam.com if you are interested.....

Lego builds start this Wednesday, 10/9, from 3:00 - 4:30, at the Scout Hall in East Windsor, CT. These builds are scheduled for every other Wednesday thru May 2014, and all the dates are listed below. These sessions are an open build format providing a time for creativity and a time just to hang out with friends. 

All ages are welcome. There are regular sized Legos and Duplos. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me directly via email jen@faheyfam.com

Thank you,

Jen

Dates:

2013

10/9
10/23
11/6
11/20
12/4
12/18

2014

1/8
1/22
2/5
2/19
3/5
3/19
4/2
4/16
4/30
5/14
5/28

HOME-SCHOOL MUSIC CLASSES

Passing this along from Sharon Grous........

 HOME-SCHOOL MUSIC CLASSES

Hi everyone. My name is Sharon Grous. I am a home-schooling mother of two children. I have been homeschooling for 10 years and have approx. 30 years experience teaching children and adults in several different areas.. I am also a musician, singer and songwriter. I have been studying music for most of my life and have many years of training in voice, flute, violin and piano. I also have extensive experience singing in choirs and as a soloist for concerts and special music events .I am the lead vocalist for a Christian band which leads worship and plays at nursing homes and special events. I attend worship seminars and conferences on a regular basis.

This is my third year offering music lessons to home-schooled children in the Tolland, Vernon and Manchester areas.

I am offering 2 group music classes this fall, as well as private lessons in Voice, Violin, Piano, and Flute. I have a few of private lesson times still available .My fees are as follows:

$15.00 ½ hour private lesson (my home or location)

$20.00 ½ private lesson, plus gas fee ( your home)

Group classes I am offering this fall are being held in the Manchester area. Group class size is limited . Classes include;

INTRO TO VIOLIN- This class introduces children to the basics of playing the violin. It is a great way to

allow a child to try the violin without a large investment This 45 minute class

meets for 10 weeks. Ages 8 and up. The fee is $95.00 or 2 payments of $47.50.

Instruments can be rented locally for about $30.00 for the first 4 months. Instruction

book fee $10.00 or less. Class size limit: 8

THURSDAY 4:00 - 4:45pm 10/03/13 – 12/12/13

MANCHESTER

SINGING/VOICE DEVELOPMENT- This class teaches children and teens correct singing technique

including breathing, enunciation, pitch, tone, reading music.

This is a 1 hour class which runs for 12 weeks. The fee is $120.00

or 3 payments of $40.00. Class size limit: 12

FRIDAY 4:30 -5:30pm 9/20/13 – 12/13/13

MANCHESTER

• This Class has already begun but some spaces are still available. Students joining now would pay the pro-rated fee of $100.00.

To register or for more information please e-mail me at ken.grous@snet.net or call 860-872-2101 or 860-463-5043.  

Intro to Musical Theatre

Passing this along......

Intro to Musical Theatre

7 week course for home schooled students!

Fee $70.00

Classes are on Mondays from 1:30-3:00pm at CAST located on 113 Summit Street, Manchester, CT.

Starting September 30^th and ending November 18^th (No rehearsal on October 14^th)

Last class will be a performance for family and friends.

For more information or to register contact Becca Duval at bduval@casttheatre.org

Or call CAST at 860.649.5062

FIELD TRIP – CT TROLLEY MUSEUM'S Autumn Pumpkin Patch Homeschool Event

Passing this along from Diane Connors, contact her if you are interested at DrMomOfTen@hotmail.com

FIELD TRIP – CT TROLLEY MUSEUM'S Autumn Pumpkin Patch Homeschool Event

WHEN?
Friday, October 4th, 2013

TIME? 1:30 – 3:30 PM

WHERE?
58 North Road, (Route 140) East Windsor, CT (plenty of
free parking available at the site)

WHO? All ages welcome.

COST?
Adults - $8.50
Seniors - $6.50
Youth ages 2-12 - $4.50
Tots ages under 2 - $1.50

ARRIVAL: We will meet for a check-in, on the front
lawn just outside the Visitor's Center. Staff will be present to collect payment-at-the-door and give you your wristbands.

DESCRIPTION OF EVENT: The
Annual Trolley Museum Pumpkin Patch event is a special event that
they arrange for visitors. For your admission fee, you get unlimited trolley rides for
the day of our visit, and one stop at the Pumpkin Patch to select a pumpkin
that your child(ren) may want to decorate back at the Visitor's Center
building. It is a decorated area, good for some cute photos ! On
the front lawn of the Center, weather permitting, there will be a variety of lawn games set up for our use, such as bean bag toss, hula hoops and a bubble table to name some of the games.
There's also free face painting and tattoos for the kids.

The Conductors of the trolleys are very friendly and happy to talk about the history of trolleys in general, how they are run, and the history of the particular car you are riding
at the time. They have multiple cars running on any given day, so it's fun to take a
turn riding all of them and learning about the history and function of
them. The ride is 3 miles long, and in October, it's gorgeous with the foliage, as well.

In addition, the Visitor's Center is a great place to visit and the changing exhibits there are quite fun to
e, too. There are picnic tables are on the front lawn if you'd like to bring a picnic lunch. There is also a cute little Gift Shop, as well.

WEBSITE: To get an idea of what this wonderful place has to offer, check the
site out http://www.ct-trolley.org/

TRIP COORDINATOR: Diane Connors – I'll be there with 6 - 9 of my kids/grandkids. We do NOT have to pre-pay for this trip. If the weather is stormy, the event is cancelled. Dress warmly because the open air trolleys, moving down the track at a fast pace can give you quite the breezy, chilly ride! Great fun. Our 2010 trip welcomed over 110 homeschoolers!

REGISTRATION: Please email me with a total headcount of your party, so I can pass the numbers on to the Trolley Museum staff. They want to have enough volunteers on hand when we visit, so we do not have to wait! Thanks. Email DrMomOfTen@hotmail.com. The Trolley Museum staff remembers our group and they look forward to our return visit!

Connecticut Homeschool Network Conference this Saturday

Passing this along........

Come to the Connecticut Homeschool Network Conference

Saturday, September 14, 2013
9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
at St. Mark's Episcopal Church, 147 West Main Street, New Britain, Connecticut

Schedule:
Workshops, Funshops & Speakers

REGISTRATION-ADMISSION TABLE open at 9:30 a.m.

Come to the Book Sale:  10 AM - 3 PM
Come to the Bake Sale:   11 AM - 2 PM

Also Michael's Craft Store: 10AM-3PM cake decorating, wooden frame making, scrapbooking, etc.

8 AM set-up begins

9:30 AM begin registration/admission at the door (ppl can browse vendors to start)

10-11 AM
*Homeschooling the College-bound Student - Diane Speed & Barbara Dembin
*Start a Support/Social Group or a Co-op - Laurel LaPorte-Grimes
*How to Research Primary Sources in Homeschools - Christine Jewell

10:30 AM - 12 Noon 
*Funshop for Kids with Peg Bigger (arts & crafts)

11-12 Noon 
*Unschooling - Luz
*Exercise Your Mind: YMCA Youth & Government - Gary Wright (30 minutes)
*The Charlotte Mason Method of Homeschooling – Lani Siciliano
* Revolutionary Thinking Through Storytelling with Connecticut author Christina Frei

12 Noon - 1 PM 
No workshops. Browse vendors and have lunch.

1-2 PM*Diane Speed - Classical Education

*Christian book author  Allia Zobel Nolan Speaks on Education

*Microsoft on Technology in Homeschooling -  Mike Walters
2-3 PM

*Lapbooking & Homeschooling with Netflix -  Jenny Coe & Diane Connors
*The Home Scholar: High School Transcripts Webinar – Lee Binz
*Design-A-Flag with Peter Orenski                

3-4 PM is breakdown and clean-up

*Note: CHN is not providing child care services at this conference.  We are  happy to include children at this event, though they must be under the direct supervision of a parent at all times.

Used Curriculum Sale Time changed

PLEASE NOTE TIME CHANGE

USED CURRICULUM SALE

ABEKA, BJU PRESS, APOLOGIA. USBORNE BOOKS, MUCH MORE!

ALL BOOKS ARE AT LEAST 50% OFF!  MANY DEEP DISCOUNTS!

HANDS-ON LEARNING ACCESSORIES – CLOCKS, FLASH CARDS, LAB KITS, ETC

I JUST WANT TO GET THESE SUPPLIES INTO THE HANDS OF PEOPLE WHO CAN USE THEM RATHER THAN HAVING THEM SIT IN OUR CLOSETS AND ATTIC TAKING UP SPACE!

Tuesday, September 10

10am-12pm; 1-3:30pm; 6:30-8pm

10 Brendan Rd.

Manchester, CT 06040

OR BY APPOINTMENT

PLEASE CALL DONNA MEIER WITH ANY QUESTIONS:  860-794-9851

THANKS!

USED CURRICULUM SALE

Passing this along from Donna Meier, see below for contact info.....

USED CURRICULUM SALE

 

ABEKA, BJU PRESS, APOLOGIA. USBORNE BOOKS, MUCH MORE!

 

ALL BOOKS ARE AT LEAST 50% OFF!  MANY DEEP DISCOUNTS!

 

HANDS-ON LEARNING ACCESSORIES – CLOCKS, FLASH CARDS, LAB KITS, ETC

 

I JUST WANT TO GET THESE SUPPLIES INTO THE HANDS OF PEOPLE WHO CAN USE THEM RATHER THAN HAVING THEM SIT IN OUR CLOSETS AND ATTIC TAKING UP SPACE!

Tuesday, September 10

10am-12pm; 1pm-5PM

10 Brendan Rd.

Manchester, CT 06040

 

OR BY APPOINTMENT

 

PLEASE CALL DONNA MEIER WITH ANY QUESTIONS:

  860-794-9851

THANKS! 

Opportunity for Homeschoolers to make some money or earn service hours.

Passing this along from Patty Schmid, please email her at patty.schmid@gmail.com if you are interested.....

I am running a MOPS group (Mothers of Preschoolers) at our church and we provide free childcare during our meetings.  So I am looking for help to provide the childcare.  We pay our workers but this could also be a service opportunity if someone is interested in not getting paid. The children range in age from 6 months to 4 years and they are split into two rooms.

The rates are:

11-12  year old helpers will receive $5per hour

13-17 yrs old $7.50/hr

18+ $10/hr.  (Moms/Dads are welcome to help too!)

We meet on the 2nd Friday of every month from 9:15-11:15 am at Church of the Living God, 199 Deming Street, Manchester.  We will also meet on the 4th Friday in October, November, January, March & May.

Thank you

Patty Schmid

Casual meeting of local homeschoolers on Thursday in Somers

Passing this along from Shelley Wurst....

I'm writing to remind everyone that we're having a casual meeting of local homeschooling families looking for social opportunities and potential co-op formations on Thursday, Sept 5, from 1-3pm at Connor's Park on Field Rd in Somers, CT.  We will initially meet in the area of the pavillion.

This was originally a meeting of the Boys' 10-14 yr group, but there does not seem to be a lot of interest in that particular group, so I am opening this up to all homeschooling families that want to make connections with others in this area of the state.  I highly encourage anyone interested in forming social groups and co-ops to attend this meeting, make connections, and see what people's wants and needs are.  People who want to organize a group should come planning to step up and offer to put something together for the days/times that work for them.  People who want to be a part of a group like that should seek out the people organizing them, hopefully we'll  have a good collection.  Anyone who runs an established co-op in this part of Connecticut is more than welcome to come talk up their group.  I will try to create an organized list of families and what they are looking for in regards to social groups and co-ops.

Questions and comments can be directed to me at collieherd@cox.net  although I will be camping from Tuesday until the meeting on Thursday so may not get a chance to respond before then.

Come meet old and new friends, kick of your school year, and have a fun afteroon at the Park!

--Shelley, mom to Jacob (12), Gabe (10), and Clara (19 mos)

Uplift Flag Football for boys 8-14

Passing this along from Adam Recla email him at ajr2@sbcglobal.net if you are interested

Uplift Flag Football is a Christ-centered sports program that builds faith and character while teaching excellence in football.   The program seeks to focus players on Jesus and His grace such that their faith would come through strongly on the playing field and life.

Uplift Football provides high-caliber coaching and skill-building. Each session starts with a huddle where we put our focus on God, then we run through a series of instructional drills, and we end with a scrimmage game.  Players will learn all of the techniques, details, and skills for playing quarterback, running back, wide receiver, linebacker and defensive back.

Uplift Football offers the chance for your son to:
-worship God through teamwork, dignified competition, perseverance, self-control, and giving his best
-receive excellent instruction in football skills, from fundamentals to advanced techniques
-experience the fun of football without the physical risks of tackling

When: Saturday mornings 10AM to Noon, 10 sessions from Sep 7-Nov 9

Who: Boys Age 8-14 (may be divided based on skill level)

Where: Pierce Park in East Windsor, CT

What do you need?  water and cleats (recommended)

Cost:  $50 for new players (includes jersey to keep)

          $20 for returning players

          All players will receive end of season medals and handouts with playbook & faith lessons.  Cost also supports new team equipment.

Please don’t let cost be a deterrent; please contact me since I want all who are interested to be able to participate.

To register or for questions, please e-mail me at ajr2@sbcglobal.net

God Bless You,

Adam Recla

Coach Biography:

God has drawn me to Him for the last 20 years and has called me to minister through sports.  I have seen God teach me many lessons of faith when playing sports.  Athletic competition and practice provided me with a proving ground for applying God’s word.   As I interacted with teammates, opponents and coaches, and pursued excellence on the field, I learned to give my best for the Lord and practice my faith.  My hope is that when young athletes see their faith in action, they can translate this trust in God toward much more important areas of life.  God blessed me with a High School football career that lead to being named All-Jersey Shore and recruited by Division 1 programs.  Now, God has really blessed me with the chance to share my experience through coaching.  Also, I have served as bible study leader and Senior Deacon at the Evangelical Free Church in Windsor Locks (who is supporting this ministry).  I am truly blessed with a wonderful wife and three great children.

Telescope Nuts & Bolts workshop at the Windsor Locks Public Library

Passing this along....

Bill Fournier, JPL/NASA Solar System Ambassador, will provide a hands-on Telescope Nuts & Bolts workshop at the Windsor Locks Public Library on Monday, September 16 at 6:30 PM.  The 2-hour workshop will be followed by an opportunity to try your telescope out, with assistance if needed. A couple of telescopes will be available to  use if you don't have one and wish to learn.  Whether you are a new telescope owner, plan to purchase one for the holidays, feel the need to "dust off"  the old one lurking in the back of your closet…or maybe just need instruction on how to use telescope, come join with Bill for this "how to/hands on" workshop and tune-up your telescope and skills. Suitable for children 10 and up, accompanied with an adult. The Windsor Locks Public Library is located at 28 Main Street.  Please call 860-627-1495 to register.  Visit www.windsorlockslibrary.org for information on all library events.

 

Sign up now for Homeschool Recreation Group At Star Hill Athletic Family Center

Sign up now for Homeschool Recreation Group  At Star Hill Athletic Family Center in Tolland, Ct.   The  6 week session starts on Friday September 13 at 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM. Activities will be planned each week on the turf fields, basketball/volleyball courts, and the indoor track. Children ages 4-16 will enjoy activities in both smaller age-appropriate groups and larger groups. While the kids are playing, Moms and Dads are welcome to use the track in the dome to get their exercise! Pre-registration is required for this program. $35 per child for members, $45 per child for non-members. Please register your children by Wednesday September 11, 2013   To register online click on this link: http://www.starhillsports.com/vacation-week/home-school-programs   Also on Wednesdays there is  Homeschool Swim; enjoy fun and games in the  indoor pool. $5 per person. Star Hill members free. 12:30pm - 2:00pm. Wednesday swim time usually includes time for free swim and then structured games. Children wearing flotation devices must be accompanied by a parent in the water. No pre-registration for this program.   Star Hill Athletic Family Center 100 Gerber Drive   Tolland, Ct   860-871-8800

HOME-SCHOOL MUSIC CLASSES

Passing this along from Sharon Grous.....

HOME-SCHOOL MUSIC CLASSES

Hi everyone. My name is Sharon Grous. I am a home-schooling mother of two children. I have been homeschooling for 10 years and have approx. 30 years experience teaching children and adults in several different areas.. I am also a musician, singer and songwriter. I have many years of training in voice, flute, violin and piano. I also have extensive experience singing in choirs and as a soloist for concerts and special music events .I am the lead vocalist for a Christian band which leads worship and plays at nursing homes and special events. I attend worship seminars and conferences on a regular basis.

I have been offering music lessons to home-schooled children for the past 2 years and will be continuing to offer several group music classes this fall as well as private lessons for voice, violin, piano, and flute. I have a limited number of private lesson times available and will be scheduling soon .My fees are as follows:

$15.00 ½ hour private lesson (my home or location)

$20.00 ½ private lesson, plus gas fee ( your home)

Group classes I will be offering this fall will be held in the Tolland,Vernon, or Manchester area. Group class size is limited.The days, times and exact locations yet to be determined. Classes include:

INTRO TO VIOLIN- This class introduces children to the basics of playing the violin. It is a great way to allow a child to try the violin without a large investment This a 1 hour class which

meets for 12 weeks. Ages 8 and up. The fee is $120.00 or 3 payments of $40.00.

Instruments can be rented locally for about $30.00 for the first 4 months. Instruction book fee $10.00 or less. 

Class size limit: 8

INTRO TO VIOLIN FOR THE YOUNG -   This class is designed to introduce the violin to younger children ages 5-8. This is a 45 minute class which meets for 12 weeks. The fee is $108.00 or 3 payments of $36.00. Instrument rental approx. $30.00 for first 4 months. Class size limit: 6

SINGING/VOICE DEVELOPMENT- This class teaches children and teens correct singing technique including breathing, enunciation, pitch, tone, reading music.

This is a 1 hour class which runs for 12 weeks. 

The fee is $120.00 or 3 payments of $40.00. 

Class size limit: 10

MUSIC THEORY - This class is designed for musicians ages 8 to adult who have been playing an instrument for at least 1 year. Students are taught theory from the basics to the more advanced using lessons, activities and worksheets. This is a 1 hour class which meets for 12 weeks. The fee is $96.00 or 3 payments of $32.00. Private lesson students fee $60.00 or 3 payments of $20.00. Class size limit: 12

If you would like more information please e-mail me at ken.grous@snet.net or call 860-872-2101 or 860-463-5043. Class times and locations will be set and posted by 8/31.

Casual get-together of the boys' 10-14 yr group on Thursday, September 5

Passing this along from Shelley Wurst.........

There will be a casual get-together of the boys' 10-14 yr group on Thursday, September 5 from 1pm to 3pm at Connors Park on Field Rd in Somers, CT, to determine if there is enough interest to continue the group into the school year. Homeschoolers of all ages and genders are welcome to attend to enjoy socializing and making connections with other local homeschoolers. RSVPs are not neccessary, but I would strongly encourage anyone who wants to see a Thursday afternoon social group in the Stafford/Somers/Ellington area to either attend this date, or contact me if you can't make this one date but are otherwise interest in this time and location. I can be reached with questions or comments at collieherd@cox.net

I will post a reminder the week of the meeting, hope to see many of you there!

--Shelley, mom to Jacob (12), Gabe (10) and Clara (19 mos)

Crystal Lake Today

Passing this along from Shelley Wurst....


Quick reminder: the boys' 10-14 group will be getting together today, Thurs, 8/15, from 1-3 pm at Sandy Beach at Crystal Lake on rte 140 in Ellington, CT. Look for us in the shade near where the deep side and shallow side division is. (I'll be wearing a tie-dyed shirt, and so will my toddler.) There is a fee for this beach, $5 per adult, $3 per child over 5. **ALL HOMESCHOOLERS OF ANY AGE AND GENDER ARE WELCOME AND ENCOURAGED TO COME AND MAKE CONNECTIONS!!!**

--Shelley, mom to Jacob (12), Gabe (10), and Clara (19 mos)

***canceled***boys' 10-14 group for today

Passing this along from Shelley Wurst....

The weather forecast stinks for both tomorrow and Friday, so I'm going to go ahead and cancel the Boys' 10-14 yr group's planned get together that was scheduled for today.

We will try again next week at the same location, Sandy Beach at Crystal Lake on Rte 140 in Ellington, on Thursday, August 15, from 1-3pm. At that get-together we'll decide on locations for the final 2 weeks of August.

Any questions can be directed to me at collieherd@cox.net

--Shelley, mom to Jacob (12), Gabe (10), and Clara (18 mos)

Change of Schedule to boys' 10-14 group

Passing this along from Shelley Wurst.........

Based on the great turnout yesterday (and the lack of turn-out at the Simsbury location last week), the desire from most of the attendees to keep our gatherings more local, and to take advantage of this awesome location before it closes for the season, we will be meeting for the next 2 Thursdays at Sandy Beach at Crystal Lake on rt 140 in Ellington. Locations for the final 2 Thursdays of the summer will be determined based on the desire of attendees.

*see schedule below*

We will meet for the next 2 Thursdays (8/8 & 8/15) in the shade on the beach near the center of the beach (pretty much directly across from where you drive into the parking lot). Fishing is not allowed on the beach, but can be accessed off the beach, although the boys decided that this is a better location for swimming than fishing, so my guess is most will leave their poles at home. 

There is a small fee at Sandy Beach, $5 for adults and $3 for kids 5 and over.

SCHEDULE CHANGE:

Thurs 8/8: Sandy Beach at Crystal Lake, Ellington

Thurs 8/15: Sandy Beach at Crystal Lake, Ellington

Thurs 8/22: TBD

Thurs 8/29: TBD

FOR THE FALL:

We will start by meeting on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month at Connors Park in Somers, from 1-3pm, for casual hang-out time and anything the boys want to bring with them to do. We will schedule other activities and locations based on the interest of attendees. There's a lot of potential for this to grow if the interest is there, but this gives everyone something to rely on for planning.

Feel free to email me at collieherd@cox.net  with any questions.

--Shelley, mom to Jacob (12), Gabe (10) and Clara (18 mos)

Weekly Chess Workshop in Ellington

Passing this along from Stacey Dieterle, Please contact her at sdeets5@gmail.com with any questions

Ellington Chess Club

5 Miller Lane

Ellington, CT

Invites you to participate in a

Weekly Chess Workshop

    

6 weeks; 1-hour session;

Thursdays; 6:00 – 7:00 PM

Meeting on August 22, 29

September 5, 19, 26; October 3

COST:    $72/Student (6 weeks)

$60/Student for two or more children

from the same family

Make Checks Payable to: DJA Chess Instruction

Scholastic Chess Workshops – All Levels

Learn to play the game of chess!  This is for players that want to learn new strategies and ways to win as well as other chess “secrets”.   Beginners are also welcome (those that do not know how to play at all).  You will learn all the basic moves of the chess pieces, their values, piece interaction, and how to win (checkmate).

For Chess Questions contact David Aldi at:

dja21857@yahoo.com

For meeting site questions contact Stacey Dieterle at:

sdeets5@gmail.com

Chess is a fascinating game, which can be played and enjoyed at all levels.  Educational research indicates evidence of a strong positive correlation between chess and student academic performance.  The practical application of the skills learned while playing chess are the same skills necessary for academic excellence and lifelong success:

·           Concentration

·           Critical Thinking

·           Problem Solving

·           Strategic Planning

·           Creativity

·           Pattern Recognition

·           Analysis

·           Evaluation

·           Competition

·           Good Sportsmanship

·           Good Decision Making !!!

Any child exhibiting impolite or disruptive behavior will be dropped from the program.

Cut out and Return to David Aldi, 248 Mill St., Southington, CT  06489         Please return promptly as space is limited.

Name _______________________________________   Grade ___________

Parent ________________________________  School _________________

Address ________________________ City ____________Zip code ________

Phone   1___________________________________________

Phone   2 ___________________________________________

Email ______________________________________________

Boys' 10-14 group get together canceled today, we will meet Friday Aug 2

Passing this along from Shelley Wurst.......

With the weather being so iffy this afternoon and our location requiring an admission fee, I'm going to cancel our scheduled boys' 10-14 group get together for today, Thurs, 8/1. Kristi Sweeney and I are planning on going to Sandy Beach at Crystal Lake in Ellington on Friday 8/2 instead -- I will plan to get there around 12:30, we will plan to meet at the far end of the shallow side (all the way to the right when facing the water) so that kids have the option of swimming or fishing. There is a small entry fee (I believe adults are $5 and children over 5 yrs are $3) at this beach. Be sure to read the posted beach rules when you arrive, the lifeguards do enforce them.

Our next scheduled get-together is at Hopeville Pond State Park next Thursday, 8/8, from 1-3pm. Lori Pajor has agreed to be the contact person for that location, she will post location and contact information at some point in the next several days.

Hope to see some of you in Ellington on Friday! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at collieherd@cox.net

--Shelley, mom to Jacob (12), Gabe (10), and Clara (18 mos)

Boys' 10-14 yrs (+/-) group get-together will be at Stratton Brook State Park TODAY

 Boys' 10-14 yrs (+/-) group get-together will be
at Stratton Brook State Park, 149 Farms Village Road (Route 309), Simsbury, CT, from 1-3pm. All are welcome, regarless of ager or gender!

Look for me (in my trademark tie-dyed shirt -- I'll dress the toddler in tie-dyed too just to make us really easy to find ;) on the beach at the swimming pond, on the side nearest the parking lot. There is no fee during the week.
There is also a stocked trout pond for fishing, trails for hiking, etc.

Hope to see you there! Next week's get-together will be at Sandy Beach on Crystal Lake in Ellington.

--Shelley, mom to Jacob (12 yrs), Gabe (10 yrs) and Clara (18 mos)

Summer Boys' 10-14yrs group hangouts start this Thursday

Passing this along from Shelley Wurst..........

Our summer Boys' 10-14yrs group hangouts start this Thursday, July 18, from 1pm- 3pm, and our location for this week is Mashamoquet State Park on Rte 44 in Pomfret, CT. Enter the park at the main entrance off Rte 44 (if traveling eastbound, it will be the first right after the Campground entrance, which is located beyond Wolf Den Rd), and park by the swimming pond or in the main parking lot. We will meet on the beach along the shaded side. I will wear tie-dye in order to make myself easy to be seen. :)

Swimming in the pond and fishing in the stream, as well as hiking, are all possibilities at this location. Israel Putnam's famous Wolf Den is also located at this State Park (a short drive, then moderate hike, from where we are meeting) if anyone wants to organize a hike once we all get there. I will
personally be sticking near the swimming water -- too buggy and muggy for me to spend much time in the woods this week!

Feel free to come as early and stay as late as you like! I will probably be there regardless of the weather (unless they wind up predicting severe weather for the entire afternoon), and will actually be shooting to get there right about noon, so if you want to come earlier look for me!

Please feel free to 'crash' our get-togethers even if you don't have boys in the target age range -- these are all public venues, you are more than welcome to come hang out with us even if you have no boys at all!! :)

The rest of our summer schedule is as follows:


July 25 -- Stratton Brook State Park, Simsbury

Aug 1 -- Sandy Beach* (Crystal Lake), Ellington (*admission fee)

Aug 8 -- Hopeville Pond State Park, Griswold

Aug 15 -- Bigelow Hollow State Park, Union

Aug 22 -- Gay City State Park, Hebron

Aug 29 -- Salmon River, Colchester

Most of these locations are free during the week (I think Sandy Beach is the only exception), and all offer swimming and fishing as options. Our official meeting time will be 1-3pm -- however, I expect most of us will take advantage of our leisurely summer schedules to extend our day and enjoy the water, weather, and companionship! :) I will post reminders about each week's location and address and any specifics you need to know a day or two prior to the date.

RSVPs are NOT necessary, and you can feel free to pick and choose any or all the dates and locations.


Looking forward to a fun-filled, relaxing summer!! Hope to share it with many of you! :)

--Shelley, mom to Jacob (12), Gabe (10), and Clara (18 mos)

CT Homeschool Network Conference and Book Sale Donations

Passing this along.......

 CT Homeschool Network has updated their website. It is an organization that supports all homeschoolers in the state of Connecticut and has gone to bat for us throughout the years as Conn. politicians attempt to regulate us. Even as recently as the Fall of 2012!

It is free to join!

http://cthomeschoolnetwork.org/

They will be hosting a conference in the fall!

Save the date! Bring the whole family for a fantastic day of all things home education!

CT Homeschool Network Conference
Saturday, September 14, 2013
10 AM – 3 PM
at St. Mark's Episcopal Church
147 Main Street
New Britain, CT

As the list of vendors, speakers & more is currently developing, we'll be updating this page with the details by late July & early August. We'll be taking homeschool conferences to a whole new level! Stay tuned!

http://cthomeschoolnetwork.org/home-schooling/conference/

**********************************

Donations now being collected for the Connecticut Homeschool Network Conference scheduled for Saturday, September 14, 2013 at St Mark's Episcopal Church, 147 West Main Street, New Britain, Connecticut.   Save the date!   All manner of educational materials are being accepted:  all kinds of books, curriculum of all kinds, puzzles, games, cds, dvds, kits, and more.  All educational items are wanted. 

As you finish up with classes this year don't clutter up your shelves with educational materials you no longer need.  Please donate them to the educational resource sale that will be held at the CT Homeschool Conference.  This worthy cause will be returning the proceeds to the homeschool community in the form of scholarships for homeschoolers that will be gifted annually, and some will be used toward CT Homeschool Network's business expenses.

Educational Materials can be dropped off at one of several collection points between now and September 7.   Please donate the items you no longer need, and then don't forget to come to the book-fair on September 14 while you are at the homeschool conference.   We will have some great surprises and prizes and treasures in store for you!

Collection points - email one of these people to get an address where you can drop off your donations:
Kris McCue, Simsbury, email fvhegroupis@hotmail.com

Pam Hayn, Colchester, email pmh1116@netscape.net

Leslie Lichenstein, Preston, email Lichtnsten179@comcast.net

Diane Connors, Columbia, email DrMomOfTen@hotmail.com