Program Information

Charlotte’s Web (19) November 4, 2004 (discounted show - see complete program descriptions for more information)
He’s “terrific!” He’s “humble!” He’s “some pig,” and he has some remarkable friends, like Fern, the little girl who can talk to animals; mischievous Templeton, the sneaky rat; and Charlotte the spider, who tries to save Wilbur the pig by weaving words into her web. Based on the classic by E.B. White, this tale of loyalty and friendship is told using hand-and-rod, shadow and life-sized body puppets.

An Afternoon With Alex, November 10, 2004 from 10:00 to 1:00 in Marietta, $12.00 (limit 12 students aged 11 and older; a picnic lunch is included)
Alex Kilgore is an experienced environmental educator specializing in primitive technology and crafts. The event will provide demonstrations and explanations of fire by friction, cordage making, atlatles, and more. This will be followed with hands-on activities. Alex lives near Boone, NC, and conducts courses in the local schools. He will be in town for a short period, and has generously agreed to share his expertise. A delicious and nutritious lunch will be served.

Here are a few descriptions from his previous courses. This day's activities will be similar.

Fire

Participants will learn the fine art of making fire with friction, using only natural materials found in our area. Students will learn how to construct a complete bow-drill fire set, learn to identify and gather proper materials, and receive instruction on using the bow-drill to create an ember and nurse it into a flame. (flint and steel are also options)

Fibers
Participants will gain an appreciation for the importance of rope and string in primitive cultures as they learn how to twist fibers into strong natural cordage. Students will also learn about the many different local plants and materials used for this purpose.

Traditional Living Skills Demonstrations
Participants will learn how prehistoric cultures throughout the world (America, Asia, Africa, Europe) performed many day to day chores, including making fire with friction, making functional tools from stone and strong rope from plant fibers, tanning and processing animal hides, gathering foods, drilling holes, and shaping and carving wood.

Ancient Arts Traveling Museum
Participants will experience a cultural history museum with no glass barriers. The collection of quality reproductions includes tools of stone, bone, antler and wood; baskets, containers, kitchenware, pottery, hunting weapons, gardening tools, musical instruments, games, toys and art. Students will have the opportunity to handle some objects from the display and use them.

Mighty Nice (14) November 12. 2004
Discussion with the artist after the show!!!!!
Ages 18 and older only. You must bring picture ID.
Show begins at 8:00 PM
This show does not include a Puppet Making Workshop or a Museum Tour.
The New York Times calls him “one of the most original and talented political satirists working in the theater.” The man who coined “in-your-face” is back with his latest comic extravaganza. Paul Zaloom, also known as Beakman of the television show Beakman’s World, unleashes his wicked wit with these takes on the prison industry, water rights and last but not least: death! Humor, Zaloom’s weapon of choice, is used to disarm and encourage, to melt the pessimism away, and to hurt the face from way too much laughter. And that, my friends, is mighty nice!

Oliver! (24) $20.00 November 13, 2004 2:00 (does not include a meal or an environmental activity thanks to daylight savings)
Charles Dickens’ greatest characters spring to life once again and OLIVER’s magical spell has everyone “Asking For More.” The unforgettable songs include: “Food, Glorious, Food,” “Consider Yourself,” “Where is Love?,” “You’ve Got to Pick-A-Pocket or Two,” “I’d Do Anything,” “As Long As He Needs Me” and many more in Cameron Mackintosh’s production of Lionel Bart’s OLIVER!

The Fourth Wall (24) $25.00 November 18, 2004
Recommended for students in grades 10-12
Contains adult language and content.
A suburban woman’s political awakening takes a tremendously theatrical turn in this comedy by award-winning playwright A.R. Gurney. When Peggy rearranges her living room furniture in a strikingly unorthodox way, her husband enlists the aid of her best friend and local college professor to get to the bottom of her behavior. With a blend of humor, politics, and the music of Cole Porter, The Fourth Wall takes its audience on a whirlwind comic tour of the possibilities of contemporary theatre.

The Winter Holiday Craft Party will be on Saturday 20 November 2004 from 11:00 to 3:00ish. We will meet at a covered picnic area in the Chattahoochee River park, which runs the length of Azalea Drive in Roswell. (They are first come, first served, so I will start at the southern most and move up stream until I find the first empty shelter.) Let me know if you need directions. We have a rain/too cold location as a back-up, and that information will be posted as needed.

Please bring any art supplies you would like to donate. Tape, scissors, markers, and paint brushes would be most helpful.

The Velveteen Rabbit (19) November 23, 2004 (preview show $8.00 - performance, museum tour, and puppet making activity; does not include lunch or an environmental activity due to it's closeness to Thanksgiving and the busy schedules of my environmental educators; 9:00 to 12:30) and December 9
Enjoy a happy holiday with this adaptation of Margery Williams’ classic tale. A boy and his stuffed bunny enjoy the comforts of friendship. Snubbed by his toy companions, the rabbit has just one wish: to become “real.” Can fabric turn into fur? Playful melodies, lovable hand-and-rod puppets, and a magical marionette reveal a heartwarming end to the ultimate toy story!

The Secrets of the Indians with Mark Warren of Medicine Bow, December 20, 2004 from 10:00 to 5:00 in Marietta, $25.00 per participant, $10.00 per attending adult (limit 12 students aged 11 and older)
Exploring the forest through the eyes of the Cherokee to discover the plants that were used for food, medicine, fire creation and craft material ... the signs of the animals the Cherokee depended upon ... and the techniques they used to approach those animals. Mark is the founder of Medicine Bow in North Georgia, and has been an environmental educator for over 30 years.

Broadway On Ice (19) $10.00 January 1, 2005 8:00
Favorite Broadway musical numbers, representing contemporary Broadway productions from “Rent to Phantom” will be performed by famous ice skaters along with Broadway musical stars. At this time, Nancy Kerrigan, Rudy Galindo, and Leslie Uggams have been confirmed. Marvelous costumes and great skating to familiar music will provide the audience with a memorable and artistic evening.

The Adventures of Mighty Bug (19) January 4, 2005 (preview show $10.00 including a puppet making workshop and museum tour, but no cooking class or nature hike due to winter), 9:00 to 12:30
LOOK! Up in the sky! It’s a bird. It’s a plane. It’s...Mighty Bug! Follow the insect world’s greatest superhero as he squares off against evil in this scientific look at nature’s miniature marvels. Will Mighty Bug triumph over the bad guys? Will Morpha Butterfly become his lady love bug? And what will happen to the peaceful Professor Rhinoceros Beetle? It’s all about the bugs in Bugville. Learn fascinating facts as boogie-woogie beats and shadow, body and hand-and-rod puppets celebrate the insect kingdom.

Mark Warren in Marietta: Make-up for the post-poned 'Secrets of the Indians' event from 20 December (12 students aged 10 and older) $25.00 January 11, 2005 10:00 to 3:00

We will spend part of the afternoon in the forest, and the rest of the day indoors discussing what we had discovered. Specific details depend on the weather.

Exploring the forest through the eyes of the Cherokee to discover the plants that were used for food, medicine, fire creation and craft material ... the signs of the animals the Cherokee depended upon ... and the techniques they used to approach those animals. Mark is the founder of Medicine Bow in North Georgia, and has been an environmental educator for over 30 years.

The Firebird (19) $10.00 January 21, 2005
A discussion with the artist follows this performance!!!!!
Ages 12 and older only.
Show begins at 8:00 PM
This show does not include a Puppet Making Workshop or a Museum Tour.
Young Prince Ivan is ordered by his father the Tsar to seek The Firebird, a beautiful yet untouchable animal of legend. His quest is plagued by jealous siblings and deceptions, as he also tries to rescue the irresistible, vulnerable princess with the help of an heroic friend. Incorporating elements from many versions of the ancient folktale, this vibrant retelling is inspired by the costumes, architecture, and art of old Russia. David Simpich, a four-time winner of the UNIMA-USA Citation of Excellence (the “Oscar” of puppetry), returns to the Center with exquisite puppets, master marionette artistry and amazing character voices. You’ve heard Stravinsky’s suite, now see the story that inspired it.

The Little Baby Snoogle-Fleejer (24) $5.50 January 27, 2005 10:30 (does not include lunch or a nature hike due to winter)
Includes a backstage tour!!!!!!!
Journey under the sea with The Little Baby Snoogle-Fleejer! Ten-year-old Jeremy, teased by other children because of his disability, is abandoned at the seashore one day when the others flee at the sight of a terrifying sea monster. With no choice but to bravely face the creature, Jeremy discovers a kindred spirit in Snoog, the baby Snoogle-Fleejer who feels he is misunderstood by humans. Together, they forge a secret friendship that produces unexpected rewards. Join the Alliance Children’s Theater and dive into a fantasy world that shares important messages of friendship, family, and accepting each other’s differences. Adapted from the book by former U.S. President and Nobel Prize Winner Jimmy Carter!

Mark Warren at Medicine Bow $35.00 3 February, 2005 leave Atlanta at 8:00 to return by 6:30

Details of this program are still being determined, but will include plant and animal track identification, shooting a bow and arrow, survival skills, Native American customs and traditions, and more. Transportation will be provided from the Metro Atlanta area to Medicine Bow in North Georgia if interested. Lunch will be provided.

Rumpelstiltskin (19) February 8, 2005 (preview show $10.00 now only $5.00!) 9:00ish to 1:30
“My daughter can spin straw into gold!” So begins the classic story of Kate, the Miller’s daughter, who is imprisoned in a room full of straw until she can make good on her father’s boast. With the help of a spinning wheel and a mysterious little man, she emerges from her prison with a treasure, ready to wed the handsome prince and live happily ever after. But first, she must pay a terrible price to the little man. Or be very, very clever...Based on the fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm, this Marionette musical will spin smiles onto the faces of children of all ages!

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater (24) $12.00 February 10, 2005 10:30
No description is provided by The Fox at this time, but this show has a reputation of being absolutely amazing. Homeschool Excursion’s ticket representative advised that this is a “must see” production.

St. Petersburg Ballet (19) $5.00 March 6, 2005
From the country famous for ballet, the St. Petersburg Ballet follows the tradition of great dancers who can mesmerize audiences with their athletic ability and their lyrical movements. The program consists of “Chopiniana”, Act III of “La Bayadere,” and “Scheherazade.”

Homeschool Herald
Come join us in producing the Homeschool Herald, the newsletter created by and for homeschoolers. Included are pictures, stories, articles, and more. We are open to all contributions and ideas, so contact us for more information. homeschoolexcursions@earthlink.net

Bowfire (24) $10.00 March 21, 2005
Bowfire is a meeting of eleven critically acclaimed violinists and fiddlers whose expertise encompass classical, jazz, country, rock, old-time, Texas-style, bluegrass, gypsy, eclectic, Celtic, and electric. The performance is a testament to the musicians’ virtuosity, as well as a loving tribute to this amazingly complex and versatile instrument. Assembled by acclaimed jazz violinist, Lenny Solomon, the performing ensemble consists of eleven violins, piano, bass, drums, guitar, and cello.

Program with Mark Warren of Medicine Bow (12) March 22, 2005 10:00 to 5:00ish

The exact details of this program will be available shortly, but it will include plant and animal track identification, local Native American history, and more. The hike will be in Pickens County, but the location is being determined.

Cost: $30.00 per student (age 8 and older), $18.00 per adult

A delicious and nutritions lunch is included.

Please contact Homeschool Excursions for additional information.

Brer Rabbit & Friends (19) April 12, 2005 ($10.00) 9:00 to 1:00
Take a romp through the old South with hare-raising tales documented by Atlantan Joel Chandler Harris. Brains beat brawn when characters- Brer Bear, Brer Fox, Brer Rabbit, Sister Mud Turtle and Sister Bird- find themselves in a briar patch of trouble. These African-American folktales come to life with hand-and-rod, shadow, and body puppets, and hand-clappin’, toe-tappin’, bear-trappin’ tunes played by live musicians.

The Anatomy of Melancholy (19) $10.00 April 15, 2005
A discussion with the artist follows this performance!!!!!
Ages 12 and older only.
Show begins at 8:00 PM
This show does not include a Puppet Making Workshop or a Museum Tour.
Have you been feeling less than chipper lately? Meet your partner in crime...Everyman. Follow the puppet with the missing piece as he encounters an apathetic lover, cliquey cocktail parties, and September 11. Inspired by Robert Burton’s 1621 anthology, Pamella O’Connor offers a decidedly contemporary approach to the causes, symptoms, and cures of the human condition. Profound visual metaphors, abstract steel towers and video projections beautifully convey the moody grip of despair, while the puppet’s modern day situations provide comic relief. As one critic asked, “Who would have guessed that melancholy could be so witty?”

Rivercane Rendezvous April 19-24, 2005
This fantastic event is hosted by Earthskills. Learn primitive firemaking, flintknapping, cordage and twining, fingerweaving, netting, basketry, useful wild plants, edibles and medicinals, woodswalks with tracking and stalking, hide tanning, bone and stoneworking, atlatl/dart, bows/arrows, blowguns, slings, bolas, rabbitsticks, stone age cookery, blacksmithing, primitive shelters and structures, pottery, tribal games and sports, and indigenous instruments and music. Courses are taught by master craftspeople, and there will be several special guests such as Steve Watts, Okefenokee Joe, and Emma Garrett. Price includes campsite, two meals per day, water, instruction and materials (few classes require additional materials fee), evening entertainment, and hot showers. Contact Earthskills at http://www.earthskillsrendezvous.org/ for more information.

Art Class in Pickens County with Heather Sotack (20) $10.00 12:00 to 2:00, April 27, 2005
I teach a step-by-step drawing class using only permanent markers.  this builds confidence in drawing, as they have to take whatever they get, mistakes and all.  They learn what to do with mistakes, how to change them, fix, them, cover them up, make them into something better.  They also study character.  Then we color the pictures with water color crayons which are very fun, and end up with a multi media effect.  Its not only a confidence builder, but it also helps the students develop an identity as an artist and creator.  Plus its very good with hand eye coordination and what they learn transfers to all other areas of study.

The exact location of the class is still to be determined. However, if you're interested, please contact us to reserve a space as it will fill up quickly.

The class is for ages 8 and above, but we have an exciting opportunity for the younger kiddies. Thelma Cagle will be offering Kinder Music for the little tykes while the older kids are busy drawing. The price for them is also $10 for the two hours.

Program with Mark Warren of Medicine Bow (12) May 3, 2005 10:00 to 5:00ish

This is the rain date for the March 22 program in Pickens County. We will be exploring the Burnt Mountain Preserve, over 1000 acres that have been saved by Pickens County and the Mountain Conservation Trust. This land is not yet open to the public, but Homeschool Excursions was granted permission to use the property for the afternoon.

Mark will focus on plant identification, track identification, Native American traditions and customs, and more. Come join us for this exciting opportunity.

Cost: $30.00 per student (age 8 and older), $18.00 per adult

A delicious and nutritions lunch is included.

Please contact Homeschool Excursions for additional information.

Camp Sunrise Planetarium, May 11, 2005 11:00 to 12:30

Visit the planetaruim with Homeschool Excursions to learn about the seasons and constellations. The program is free!

Town of Tate Tour, May 17, 2005 10:00 to 1:00ish $6.00 per person (discount available for multiple children)

Come be a pert of the development of this exciting tour.

Pickens County is the 'Marble Capital of Georgia' and Col Sam Tate played a major role in the marble industry becoming the major business that it is. Sam Tate built Georgia Marble and the village of Tate in the early 1900s. As our fearless leader, homeschool mom Thelma Cagle says, he was the 'spirit of philanthropy.' He brought the railroads to Tate and built the bustling community for his employees. Col Tate built the schools, the stores, and the houses, he hired the teachers and doctors, and he stressed the importance of culture and community. The employees of Georgia Marble were paid in his currency and lived in houses that the company owned. Sounds a bit like socialism, doesn't it? But it worked. The members of the community were happy, he treated his employees with respect, and he provided for the citizens of Tate. Only the best teachers were hired, free cultural events were made available, and quality doctors were recruited. But one of the most significant aspects of Sam Tate's story is his treatment of his black employees and the effect it had on the community. Col Sam built their houses too, as well as a church and school. He treated them respectfully, which greatly influenced the overall mentality of Pickens County. Integration was never an issue here; black and white people had worked together to build Tate, and Sam's attitude of respect permeated throughout the community. So, you can see that Sam Tate's story is not simply the tale of a man who capitalized on the marble industry, but that he was a renaissance man of sorts. His story is an important piece of Georgia history (which is rarely mentioned in text books), and so this tour is an effort to preserve and share this narrative, especially while we still have first hand witnesses to share their perspectives with us.

Georgia marble is used all over the world. Many of the structures in Washington, DC (ie the Lincoln Memorial) were built with our marble! Learn where it all comes from.

Homeschool Excursions and Marble Valley Friends have applied for a grant from the Georgia Humanities Council to develop the Town of Tate Tour for the Marble Festival, which will evolve into a tour that is offered regularly through the Marble Valley Friends (a local non-profit).

We are offering a tour next Tuesday, starting at 10:00 and lasting until lunch time, or so. This program is the guinea pig for the tour we are working to develop. This will be an interdisciplinary study to provide an in-depth picture of Sam Tate and his influence in the Pickens County community.

The details are not finalized, but this is what we are planning on including:
* A tour of the Old Tate Gym, Tate Elementary School - the only marble school in the world (not finalized), Tate Methodist Church (not finalized, but probable), and the Tate Mansion
* Qualified guides will share the history of Tate village and the Tate family
* The process of mining marble will be explained (and maybe shown via video)
* Each of the buildings Sam Tate built have interesting architectural components, and everything was done with a specific reason in mind. We will explore this in detail.
* Lots of time for questions and answers with our guides.

The Town of Tate Tour is a walking tour. We will begin at the Old Tate Gym, and make our way down hwy 53 (2 lane road with a sidewalk) to the Tate House. You can park at the Tate House and walk up to the Gym, to end the day back at your car. Or you can park at the Gym and walk back to your car at the end of the program. This is a fairly busy road, so you MUST be mindful of your kids (especially the little guys).

You may bring a picnic lunch to eat at the Tate House. They have a beautiful yard with trees dated over 300 years old, or there is a patio you can sit at.

We expect to finish the tour close to lunch time. But we can cater the day to the interests of the group.

Your feedback will be used to modify the tour for the future. Help be a part of the development of this event and in the preservation of an important piece of Georgia history.

Xperimental Puppetry Theater (XPT) (14) $8.00 May 19, 2005
Discussion with the artists after the show!!!!!
Ages 18 and older only. You must bring picture ID.
Show begins at 8:00 PM
This show does not include a Puppet Making Workshop or a Museum Tour.
Artists of all disciplines have mixed it up for more than 20 years, pushing the boundaries of puppetry, in this workshop/performance forum. Completely new, completely original works have taken on such diverse subject matter as Kafka, beatnik monsters and Venus de Milo’s missing arms, launching the careers of various puppet luminaries. Following each show, feel free to stick around and pick the brains of the artists and discuss their Xperiences. At Xperimental Puppetry Theater, the audience is a vital element of the creative process. Xpect the unXpected when puppeteers color outside the lines.

Homeschool Herald Meeting in Athens, June 2, 2005 from 1:00-1:30ish

The Homeschool Herald is a newsletter published by and for homeschoolers. Each month, I will visit a different part of Georgia to accept submissions and take the cover photo. Meetings are held every other Wednesday in Pickens County, but this is a far drive for many families. I want everyone to be a part of this rapidly developing resource, so come meet with me, share your creative contributions, and be a part of the Homeschool Herald!

We will meet at the UGA Arches on north campus at 1:00. Bring your submissions for the newsletter and a smile for the camera!

Please contact me if you have any questions or don't know where the arch is.

Mark Warren Program (12) $30.00 May 31, 2005 10:00-5:00ish
The details for Mark Warren's program on May 31 have been finalized. I hope you can join us! RSVP soon because spaces are already filling up, and there is a limit of 12 students ages 8 and older.

The rundown:
Place: Medicine Bow in Dahlonega (Mark's outdoor education school)
Date: May 31, 2005
Time: 10:00 to 5:00ish
Price: $30.00 per student, $15.00 per adult (includes a delicious and nutritious lunch)

One of Mark's primary areas of study is Native American culture, traditions, and customs. I could not find the full description of the program, but here is the general idea. The class we will be taking is an expanded version of the course below.

His most popular traveling program is THE NATIVE AMERICANS , a 1 1/2 hour history and demonstration beginning with the first foot set upon North America. He follows the progress of the Indians as they migrated into the new ecosystems that would shape their cultures into the discrete tribes that finally reflected the land, plants, and animals where they settled. He has an abundance of crafts made in the old way. The program eventually focuses on the Cherokee, the people who once walked the trails of Medicine Bow - the people who knew the Nature of this land like no people ever will again. After this class he likes to take his audience outside to see first hand the secrets of the Indians.

This promises to be a fantastic adventure, so I hope you can join us! Mark's schedule is completely booked until mid-fall, so this is our last opportunity for a while to participate in the incredible programs he offers.

Let me know if you have any questions.

Tate Bi-Centennial Celebration, June 3-4, 2005

Come celebrate Tate's 200th Annivarsary. Tate is located just outside of Jasper. Contact Homeschool Excursions with any questions.

Friday: 5 to 9 PM; Registration for the weekend; viewing of exhibits and sale items; eight speakers on the topic of growing up and living in Tate; viewing ETC's North Georgia Treasures videos of yesteryear in Ballground, Nelson, and Tate; a sing-along featuring Patsy Daniels at the piano; an 'open mic' time for spontaneous comments from anyone present

Saturday: 9:30 registration resumes; exhibits and sale items remain available at the Tate Gym; parade forms at the Cool Springs Baptist Church; 10:30 parade begins from the parking lot of the Cool Springs Baptist Church; immediately following the parade, tours begin from the parking lot of the Cool Springs Baptist Church; 11:00 to 1:00 hot dogs and Moon Pie lunch served at the Tate Gym; Noon to 4:00 variety show-style entertainment in the auditorium of Tate Elementary; Afternoon children's horseback trail rides available at the Horseshoe Trails Ranch; 6:00 to 9:00 banquet and Hall of Fame Inductions at the Tate Gym

Medicinal Plant and Salve Class in Athens (15) June 25, 2005 $10.00 per person, 12:00 to 3:00

Kerry has been studying medicinal plants for over 20 years, and her salves are well-recognized for their amazing healing properties. In this class, she will lead us in a brief introduction to medicinal plants, the power we hold to heal ourselves with the plants growing in our yard, and the process of making tinctures and salves. We will then make a salve to take home and use!

She will lecture on ways to utilize our rich, local edible and medicinal wild plants and the Alchemy of sustainable energy. We will participate in a hands-on demonstration of various simple herbal preparations and the making of a fresh, healing skin slave to take home.

Spaces are limited and are sure to fill, so RSVP soon to reserve your place. This program is not exclusive to homeschoolers.

Veggie Powered Diesel Vehicles, June 27, 2005 $7.00 per student, $5.00 per adult in Marietta near the intersection of Johnson Ferry and Roswell Road, 11:00 to 4:00

Our society has become dependent on vehicles powered by fossil fules. These are a non-renewable resource that pollutes the environment, causes political tensions, and is becoming very expensive. There are many alternatives, one of which is vegetable oil! Diesel engines were originally created to run on peanut oil, so Oren Kleinberger has been converting old Mercedes to be powered by used vegetable oil.

Come learn the process of converting a diesel engine, the benefits of using alternative fuels on the environment, and much more. There's no telling what's Oren has in his bag of tricks!

All ages are welcome, however kids aged 8 and older will benefit most.

Chris Maness' Cherokee Rivercane Blowgun Class (12) June 28, 2005 $20.00 per student, 1:00 to 4:00

The Rivercane blowgun was a valuable tool amongst the people of the southeast, namely the Cherokee. In this hands-on class we will cover both modern and pre-contact methods for constructing this and other tools from the indigenous rivercane. Harvesting, construction and use will be covered. The class will also include thistle dart contruction, where we utilize the flower of Bull thistle and other native plants for our darts. Each student will leave with their own rivercane blowgun and 3 darts.

This class will be in the Pickens/Cherokee County vicinity; exact directions will be provided a few days prior to the program.

The age limit for this program is 8 and older, but students under age 12 MUST be accompanied by an adult. Sharp tools and fire are used in blowgun construction and we don't want anyone getting hurt!

Cooking with Sara Ohlin in Jasper, June 30, 2005 11:00-2:00, $10 per student

Come learn how to make your own pasta from scratch! You will then create your sauce from a variety of ingredients provided. A central focus of the class will be on nutrition and the importance of a well balanced and healthy diet.

Students under the age of 10 must be accompanied by an adult; sharp knives may be used in the cooking process and we don't want any accidents!

Homeschool Herald Potluck, Playdate, and Publication Party in Jasper, July 12, 2005 4:00 to 6:00

Want to help with the upcoming Homeschool Herald? Come join us for an evening of fun as we eat delicious food, the homeschoolers who want to help with the Herald can get to work (making clip art and other creative additions), and those who want to run, jump, and laugh can play on the playground.

This issue will hopefully be the biggest and best yet! It will be distributed at the Southeast Regional Homeschool Expo and the Canton Homeschool Fair. Let your creative juices flow! You can send us your submissions via e-mail or snail mail if you can't make the party, but we hope to see you there!

Please include a list of ingradients with your dish. Many of our homeschoolers have allergies and we don't want anyone getting sick. Turn in your recipes for publication in the Herald!

Contact us for more information at homeschoolexcursions@earthlink.net for more information.

Hansel and Gretel (10) July 14, 2005 9:15 to 1:00ish, $10.00 at the Center For Puppetry Arts

What do you get when you mix together two children, one cup of breadcrumbs, and 637 pounds of gingerbread? Tanglewood Marionettes' latest treat! "The hearth if the forest is not place for children," warns Hansel and Gretel's father. But what could be so bad about a gingerbread house made of cake frosting windows, gumdrop shutters, and delectable chocolate fudge doorknobs? It's sibling rivalry at its best when brother and sister cooperate to outwit a wicked witch! Hand-crafted string puppets, the melodies of Engelbert Himperdink's 1893 opera, and a giant, illustrated storybook create an unforgettable retelling of the Brother Grimm classic story.

Program includes attending the performance and participating in a puppet making workshop.

Aladdin and His Wonderful Lamp (15) August 10, 2005 9:15 to 11:45ish, $7.00 at the Center For Puppetry Arts

Climb atop National Marionette Theatre's magic carpet for the ride of your life! Faster than you can say "open sesame," your group will be transported to a wondrous land of magicians, genies, and jewels! Young Aladdin, though very poor, has fallen in love with the Sultan's daughter, Princess Yasmin, and vows to take her hand in marriage. As the keeper of a magic lamp, Aladdin has access to a glowing genie who is able to clothe him in rich robes AND build a palace fit for a queen! But when the wicked Beezla seizes the lamp, the two are separated. Will Aladdin and Yasmin be reunited? Find out in this soaring adventure as string puppets capture the mystery and magic of the Arabian Knights.

Homeschool Excursions Day at Adrenaline Climbing Gym, the third Thursday of every month , 11:00 until you're done

$10.00 belay class (must be completed to be independent in the gym by students 10 years old or older, otherwise your kids can 'boulder' or climb without ropes staying low to the ground) 11:00 to 12:00

$10.00 per student for a full day of climbing, including gear rental!

$5.00 annual family Homeschool Excursions/Adrenaline membership

Adrenalline Climbing Gym is working with Homeschool Excursions and is offering us an unbelievable deal! Come join us for this fantastic program.

For those of you who haven't ever climbed, it's a wonderful experience. It promotes team work and forces students to challenge themselves to meet personal goals. Adrenaline teaches the kids to belay (a mandatory class to be independent in the gym), and then they are free to utilize the entire facility. Or parents, you can take the belay class and help your kids. It is up to you how you want to arrange for independent climbing, whether you, your kids, or all of you choose to take the belay class.

Gravity is highly dependable.  That is why at Adrenaline Climbing we concentrate on safety first... and second!  From 11am to noon, we will have a Belay Class for those interested in learning how to safely support the climber using the rope, harness, and belay device.  During that time, others can be Bouldering (a term meaning climbing low to the ground, or traversing, the rock walls).  Afterward everyone will be able to climb as high as they like, for as long as they like. 

Adjust your altitude and change your life. 

Small kids MUST be supervised. Parents, if you're coming to learn to belay, your little ones must not be left unattended. We don't want any accidents!

I have climbed and worked on ropes courses, and I have never seen an opportunity as affordable as this. Meet new homeschoolers while learning to climb. And be sure to thank the staff of Adrenaline for providing this fantastic opportunity.

We will have Homeschool Excursions day once a month, and participants have the option to visit the gym any other day for $15.00 per student including gear rental.

Visit their website for more information: Adrenaline Climbing

Open House for Homeschool Excursions' Enrichment Program, August 24, 2005 10:00 to 12:00 at the Roberts School in Acworth

Come meet the instructors of our exciting classes and register for the first session. Contact Teri Verhine, the Education Coordinator, for more information: teriverhine@yahoo.com

Let's make Kudzu baskets! with Chris Maness of Asheville, NC (12) August 24, 2005 3:00 to 6:00, $15.00 per student (includes materials) in Acworth

Chris Maness, an environmental educator from Asheville, will be here to lead another fantastic program. Kudzu, as you know, is an extremely abundant local resource. It has a variety of uses, including making flour, jelly, and syrup, it can be used as hay for cattle, and it serves as a wonderful material for various crafts. Join us as we learn to weave kudzu into beautiful and functional baskets!

Homeschool Herald Potluck, Playdate, and Publication Party in Jasper, August 31, 2005 1:00 to 3:00

Want to help with the upcoming Homeschool Herald? Come join us for an evening of fun as we eat delicious food, the homeschoolers who want to help with the Herald can get to work (making clip art and other creative additions), and those who want to run, jump, and laugh can play on the playground.

We will be turning in September submissions, drawing the clip art, and filling in whatever gaps we find. Let your creative juices flow! You can send us your submissions via e-mail or snail mail if you can't make the party, but we hope to see you there!

Please include a list of ingredients with your dish. Many of our homeschoolers have allergies and we don't want anyone getting sick. Turn in your recipes for publication in the Herald!

Contact us for more information at homeschoolexcursions@earthlink.net for more information.

Let's Rock & Roll at the Weinman Mineral Museum (15) September 8, 2005 9:30 to 12:00, $7.00 per student, $5.00 per adult

Join us for an adventuresome morning as we learn to classify rocks into their three major categories and then pan for gold!

The museum provided a packet of materials and activites for the kids. If you would like a copy, please add $2.00 per packet to your program fees to cover printing costs. Your request must be received by September 5th.

The Little Rabbit and Other South African Tales (10) September 7, 2005 9:15 to 11:45ish, $7.00 at the Center For Puppetry Arts

Celebrate cultural diversity with the wizardry of celebrated Atlanta storyteller and puppeteer Akbar Imhotep. Four South American folk tales come to life with live music, animated voices and a menagerie of puppets as Imohtep introduces your group to the colorful characters of "The Little Hare," "The Little Ant," "The Golden Gourd," and "The Magic Rattle." Your students will learn about kindness, justice, and the value of honesty with Vovo, Conejito and the rest of the animals. Join in the catchy chorus of "ooh, la, la, my Tia Monica" and you're sure to leave with a song in your head and a smile in your heart.

Funk Heritage Center in Canton, (12) September 19, 2005 9:30 to 12:00ish, $6.00 per student (ages 7-11), $7.00 per adult

The tour starts with a visit to our mid-1800s settlement and takes about 45 minutes. The group will then tour the museum for an hour. They will see a 15-min. video on the Southeastern Indians, visit the Hall of Ancients, the Longhouse, and art gallery. The kids will conclude their experience at the Funk Heritage Center with a 30 minute craft activity.

Hall of the Ancients: 12,000 years of Native American life depicted through artifacts, dioramas, and interactive work stations

HDTV Theatre Currently Showing "The Southern Indians": An introduction to the history and culture of our native people

Sellars Gallery of Historic Tools: More than 10,000 tools. Featuring the tools that built our nation. One of the most significant collections of its kind.

Rogers Contemporary Native American Art Gallery: Extensive collection of paintings, baskets, sculpture, and pottery

Appalachian Settlers Village: Pioneer log cabins, 19th Century farm buildings, pond, farm animals, and picnic area

Northcutt Discovery Trail: Learn about native plants and animals as you walk to the Appalichian Sellters Village

The kids are welcome to bring lunches and eat in the open picnic area after the tour. There are no drinking or vending machines at the Center.

Georgia History Timeline at the Funk Heritage Center in Canton, (12) October 18, 2005 8:30 to 10:30 $10.00 per person

Live history through real experiences. Students visit 9 stations in 90 minutes: Etowah Indians, Hernando DeSoto, Oglethorpe and Tomochichi, Revolutionary War, Sequoyah and the Cherokee syllabary, frontier life, the Civil War, and more.

This program is available for school groups only, so come join us for an exciting morning!

Model Rocketry Basics, (12) November 14, 2005, 10:00 to 3:00, $30.00 per student (includes model rocket for you to take home!)

Location to be determined, but will be near Jasper in Pickens County

Topics to be covered:

1) How Do Model Rockets Work? (some mathematical formulas)

            Topics: Propulsion, Thrust, Drag, Gravity, Stability, Stages, Altitude, Velocity, Flight Time, Trajectory, Recovery Methods, Safety, etc.

2) Build Model Rockets (Estes – Alpha III’s)

            Level 1 kit: assemble engine mount, secure plastic fins to body tube, attach nose cone to body tube with shock cord, attach parachute

3) Launch Model Rockets (Estes – Alpha III’s)

            2 Lunches: launch preparation - install model rocket engine& igniter, count down sequence & ignition, flight observation, recovery, flight analysis

4) Wrap Up

The Shoemaker and the Elves at the Center For Puppetry Arts, (10) November 15, 2005, 10:30 to 12:30ish, $11.00 per person ($8.50 per person if paid by November 1)

Includes a puppet making workshop!!!

Dig into the holidays the way elves dig into cheesecake! You didn't know that elves like cheesecake?! Frankie and Gino sure do! And if it weren't for piles of creamy cakes and a little elfin magic, Mel Footmeyer would be closing up the shoe shop. He and his wife Tootsie owned the store for 42 years, but the shoe trade has slowed to a crawl. Watch as Santa's rebels help the Footmeyers spread good cheer all around 1940s New York. Expect some exciting guest appearances and swinging big band music to keep the holiday spirit on the move.

American Indian Program in Cumming, (40) November 21, 2005, 11:00 to 12:30ish, $10.00 per person ($7.50 per person if paid by November 7)

Spend the afternoon learning authentic American Indian stories, crafts and songs with Shannon O'Lear, a descendant of the Overhill Cherokee of Tennessee. We'll participate in drumming and dancing, and play a game historically played by a North American tribe. We'll also put together a culturally appropriate craft and leave time for lots of questions and answers.

Please dress for outdoor weather and bring a snack & water.

Soap Making , December 6, 2005, 10:00 to 3:00ish, $15.00 per person, all ages welcome ($11.25 per person if paid by November 22) This program has been subsidized through the generous donations of several families. The cost is now only $8.00 per person!!

Have you ever wondered where soap comes from? Well, now you can learn how to make it!! We will learn the process of making soap the traditional way, over a fire using raw materials. You even get to take some home with you...just in time for the holidays.

The location for this event is off Howell Bridge Road (exit 27 on I-575), 1/2 way between Canton and Jasper.

Einstein is a Dummy at the Alliance Theatre, (15) December 8, 2005, 11:45, $9.00 per person (6.75 per person if paid by November 24)

Fun New Musical for the Whole Family

As an adult, Albert Einstein changed our view of the universe. But as a boy, he struggled with the same issues any twelve year-old might – keeping up with violin lessons, impressing the girl next-door and – oh yeah, comprehending the fundamental relationship of space and time to the speed of light, of course. This uplifting play about a fictional day in young Einstein’s life confirms that each of us is both ordinary and special. With an engaging, original score, a healthy dose of imagination and the help of a mysterious cat, Einstein is a Dummy reveals life’s atomic possibilities.

Observational Astronomy for Children and Adults, Too! in Pickens County, (30 spaces available) December 10, 2005, 4:00 to 7:30ish , FREE for Pickens County residents, $3.00 per student for non-Pickens residents (sorry, no early registration discount for this event)

This event is the first in what will hopefully develop into monthly, bi-monthly, or even tri-monthly events in Pickens County that are offered for free to the kids in the community and at an extremely affordable rate for non-residents. The Boys and Girls Club of Jasper and Jasper Counseling Associates have generously sponsored this exciting evening under the stars. Thank you!

Join us as Astronomy Delight! leads us in our exploration of the sky!

We talk about some basic things such as the size of the universe, how many stars are really out there (we do some cool demos), safety, how to be an observer.. not a peeker, how imagination is important, and much more.
 
We then proceed to the telescopes.. I will bring 2 or 3 telescopes, including the Solar-Only.
They are large professional grade instruments and we observe what we've talked about.  In addition we look at what's great in the sky.  On that date we should be able to see Mars, Venus, Uranus, The Moon, and the Pleiades (Beautiful Star Cluster.)

Come join us! We will begin while the sun is still out so we can look at solar flares, sun spots, and more! We'll continue into the darkness so we can explore the night sky. Be a part of the excitement!

E-mail us now to reserve your space.

Rainforest Adventures at the Center For Puppetry Arts, (10) January 11, 2006, 9:30 to 1:00ish, $15.00 per person ($12.00 per person if paid by December 28)

Includes a Puppet Making Workshop!!

Hang on! It's a jungle out there in this entertaining and educational peek at the amazing Amazonian rainforest! In less than one hour, you'll experience a day in the life of more than 30 exotic plants and animals in this vital ecosystem. An anaconda slithers through the shrubs, bats beat their wings in a glorious evening ballet and howler monkeys swing to the beat of Brazilian drums against the backdrop of a lush paradise. Visual and vibrant, this escape to the tropics, told with hand, hand-and-rod and body puppets, transforms the stage into a rainforest so real you'll want to bring your umbrella!

Wood Turning with Harry Hunt in Pickens County, (25) January 14, 2006, 1:00 to 5:00ish, FREE for Pickens County residents ($5.00 fully-refundable-when-you-attend deposit required to save your space) and $5.00 per person for non residents; YOU MUST RSVP (places are limited)

Harry Hunt will be visiting us with his hand crafted turning lathe. A lathe is a wood working tool that turns the wood to enable the carver to make bowls, furniture legs, and much more. Come learn about this fantastic craft. And you get to try it for yourself!

The Odyssey at the Gwinnett Performing Arts Center, (20) January 27, 2006, 9:30, $10.00 per person ($8.00 per person if paid by January 13)

Adapted from Homer by Amie Brockway-Henson

Your students won’t want to miss this mythical Greek adventure for all time and all ages with monsters, storms, shipwrecks and obstacles at every turn. The goddess Athena tells the story of brave Odysseus, who began his journey home to Athens and his wife Penelope after ten years of war in Troy. Enroute he and his men visit strange lands inhabited by the goddess Calypso, the sorceress Circe, the one-eyed giant Polyphemus, and others who do their best to detain him. After nearly ten years Odysseus finally arrives home where there is yet one more obstacle to overcome!

Most appropriate for Grades 3 and Up

Stinky Cheese Man at the Alliance, (15) February 3, 2006, 11:00 to 12:45ish, $8.40 per person ($7.00 per person if paid by January 20)

What happens when you make a man out of stinky cheese instead of gingerbread? You get The Stinky Cheese Man! These madcap misadventures, taken from the popular children’s book of the same name, have a very important moral lesson: "It's all right to be lactose intolerant." The Stinky Cheese Man will have you rolling with laughter as it turns familiar fairy tale characters hilariously on their ears. From Chicken Licken running from a sky that may actually be falling, to Cinderella’s raucous run-in with Rumplestiltskin, the string of vignettes will keep you guessing what could possibly be next.

Exciting Program with Scott Jones and Russell Cutts in Pickens County, (25) February 11th, 2006, 1:00 to 4:00ish, FREE for Pickens County residents ($5.00 fully-refundable-when-you-attend deposit required to save your space) and $5.00 per person for non residents; YOU MUST RSVP (places are limited)

Blowguns, Atlatls, Fire By Friction, Fire as a Tool, Plant Uses, and much more!!

Scott Jones, who has been studying primitive technology for over 20 years, will visit Pickens County to lead us on one half of the day’s adventures. His program focuses on ancient technologies; a variety of tools, technologies, and ideas will be presented. Included in the demonstrations will be the atlatl (spear thrower), the bow (for launching arrows and as a musical instrument), and the southeastern Rivercane blowgun. He will also explain the use of animals, particularly the Whitetail deer, for food, tools, fiber, and hide. Mr. Jones serves on the board ot the Society for Primitive Technology, and is a member of the Georgia Council of Professional Archaeologists, the Society for Georgia Archaeology, and is a member of the Southeastern Archaeological Conference.

Russell Cutts will lead the second part of the program. It will focus on fire and the role it has played, and continues to play in our lives, and he will also lead us on a short nature walk showing the uses for plants growing in your yard. He will explain how fire is central in the foundation of culture and civilization. Fire is a tool used for warmth, cooking, making tools, light, and much more. Mr. Cutts will demonstrate and explain the wonder of fire, and then the kids will get to try their hand at creating fire by friction, which is not as easy as it looks! Russell Cutts, author of Wildfire: Fire Making Art and Blackbird Dreams, has an MA in Anthropology from the University of Georgia, he directed Georgia’s State Native American and Pioneer Interpretive Center, the Funk Heritage Center at Reihnardt College, and has been teaching primitive technology and experimental archaeology for almost 20 years.

The Tortoise & the Hare at the Center For Puppetry Arts, (20 spaces) February 14, 2006, 11:15, $10.00 per person ($8.00 per person if paid by January 31)

Includes a Puppet Making Workshop!!

Does slow and steady really win the race? Find out in this fanciful production of "fable-ous" tales told over 2,000 years ago by a Greek slave named Aesop. A host of animals learn lessons about jealousy, friendship, patience and more in "The Fox & the Grapes," "The Lion & the Mouse," "City Mouse/Country Mouse," and "The Tortoise & the Hare." Performed in Storytelling Theatre style with a variety of puppets, this hare-raising rush hour also reveals a few tricks of the trade. You'll see the characters and puppeteers and interact with both in this irresistible romp of live music and overt puppetry.

E-mail us to confirm availability.

The Diary of Anne Frank at the Gwinnett Performing Arts Center, (12 spaces left) March 9, 2006, 11:30, $10.00 per person ($8.00 per person if paid by February 23)

This 8 actor, fully staged live production presents a gripping new adaptation of the Diary of Anne Frank. Adapted by Wendy Kesselman for the national touring company, Seem-To-Be-Players, from the original stage play by Goodrich & Hackett, this production interweaves newly discovered writings from Anne's diary with survivor accounts to create a contemporary impassioned story of the lives of people persecuted under Nazi rule. Born on June 12, 1929, Anne Frank was a German-Jewish teenager who was forced to go into hiding during the Holocaust. She and her family, along with four others, spend 25 months during WWII in an annex of rooms above her father's office in Amsterdam. "This challenging new version of the play brings home the beauty and sensitivity of a young woman in the midst of the horrors of the Holocaust." Ric Averill, Artistic Director of the Seem-To-Be-Players.

E-mail us to confirm availability.

Art Explorers at the Booth Western Art Museum in Cartersville, (27 spaces) March 14, 2006, 11:00 to 12:30, $9.00 per person ($7.00 per person if paid by February 28)

Suitable for grades 3-12

Explore the galleries of the Booth Museum. Delight in Cowboys, Native Americans, Mountain Men, and other legends of the Old West. Participate in gallery games and other hands-on activities designed to reinforce the Elements of Art and the Principles of Design.

E-mail us to confirm availability.

Broadway Jr at the Fox in Atlanta, (FULL: e-mail us to be added to the waiting list) March 17, 2006, 9:30 to 11:00ish, $14.00 per person ($11.00 per person if paid by March 3)

Combining entertainment and education in one package, Broadway Junior® on Tour will introduce Volume One of Music Theatre International’s Broadway Junior Collection® (condensed versions of legit Broadway classics) to cities throughout North America. The inaugural touring one-hour performance will highlight Meredith Wilson’s The Music Man Jr., Stephen Sondheim’s Into The Woods Jr., and Dear Edwina Jr.

E-mail us to be added to the waiting list.

Veggie Cars in Pickens County, (25) March 18th, 2006, 1:00 to 4:00ish, FREE for Pickens County residents ($5.00 fully-refundable-when-you-attend deposit required to save your space) and $5.00 per person for non residents; YOU MUST RSVP (places are limited)

Learn how to run a diesel car on Veggie Oil! Sounds unreal, but it's possible! Come learn from Oren Kleinberger, President of Ecological Creations, how this works.

Kids will learn how oil is made from plants, what we use it for, and how we recycle the waste product as fuel for our vehicles.

E-mail us to reserve your space!

Tour the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, (FULL: e-mail us to be added to the waiting list) March 31, 2006, 12:00, $7.50 per person ($6.00 per person if paid by March 17)

Go behind the scenes at Georgia's most prestigious stadium. When you take the Georgia Dome Tour, you get to see the Dome's most exclusive and private areas:

Observatory Deck
Get a Falcons eye view of the stadium from the Observatory Deck, where coaches, coordinators and officials see all the action, over 200 feet above the field and the highest seats in the Dome.

Dome Productions Studio
The eyes and ears of the Georgia Dome, Georgia Dome Productions' studio is a fully functional television studio that is used by directors and producers broadcasting events at the Dome.

Press Box
Alert the media! Approximately 150 newspaper and magazine reporters work in the press box during publicly ticketed events like Falcon's games.

Suite
Presidents, CEOs, sports and music celebrities come to the suites to view the game in style. The Dome features over 200 Executive Suites that can seat 16 to 24 guests.

Club Atriums
With room for 1,500 each, the Dome's two club lounges are luxurious spaces with exclusive concessions, comfortable seating and televisions showing every game.

Lower Level
Prime seating for the Falcons' most loyal season-ticket holders and a great place to view a concert or arena event, the Lower Level's capacity is greater than any arena in the State of Georgia.

Locker Room
"Suit up! No one pushes us around in our house!" Open to the public for the first time in the Dome's history, the Falcons locker room echoes with the half-time speeches from NFL and College Football Championships like the SEC Championship Game.

Field
See first-hand the turf that's the toast of the town. FieldTurf looks like grass, feels like grass and plays like grass, and the players love it. You will too!

E-mail us to be added to the waiting list.

Visit the Misty Mountain Railroad in Blairsville and a Nature Hike with Ms. Sarah, (16 spaces left) April 4, 2006, 11:00, $10.00 per person ($8.00 per person if paid by March 21)

Come visit America's largest o-guage train display, the 3,400 square foot layout features 14 o-guage Lionel trains traveling on a mile of track over 12 bridges and 4 trestles and through 15 tunnels. Many displays represent North Georgia and Atlanta. It's unbelievable, so come check it out!

Ms. Sarah, a local of Blairesville, will lead us on a plant walk following the Railroad tour. Sarah has been studying plants and their uses for over 20 years, and at this time of year, all the new spring growth will be starting. As we walk through the woods, the kids will gather materials. These items will then be combined in a group craft project. Come join us for this exciting day in Northern Georgia!

Snacks will be provided, but please bring your own bottled water.

E-mail us to confirm availability.

Carlos Museum at Emory University in Atlanta, (5 spaces left) April 6, 2006, 11:00 to 1:00ish, $7.50 per person ($6.00 per person if paid by March 22)

The collections of the Michael C. Carlos Museum of Emory University span the globe and the centuries. Housed in a distinguished building by renowned architect Michael Graves, the Carlos maintains the largest collection of ancient art in the Southeast with objects from ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, the Near East, and the ancient Americas. The Museum is also home to collections of nineteenth- and twentieth-century sub-Saharan African art and European and American works on paper from the Renaissance to the present day.

E-mail us to confirm availability.

TOY TV at Roper Park in Pickens County, April 22, 2006, 1:00 to 4:00ish, FREE for Pickens County Residents; $3.00 per person for non-residents

National TV Turn-Off Week begins on April 24, so come help usher it in with an exciting afternoon with local band TOY TV (Turn Off Your TV). They are a successful group that plays gigs throughout the Metro Atlanta area and North Georgia, and they're working on recording their first CD! Members of the band will share how they met, what it takes to put a band together and practice, they'll discuss the recording process, and they'll play you some of their orignal songs. Come join the fun!

E-mail us to confirm availability.

Visit the Braves Museum and Hall of Fame, (FULL: e-mail us to be added to the waiting list) April 24, 2006, 11:00 to 12:00ish, $7.50 per person ($6.00 per person if paid by April 10)

Visit Turner Field and see what the Braves see! Included is a visit to Coca-Cola Sky Field, a Braves luxury suite, the press box, broadcast booth, clubhouse (locker room) and dugout, Scouts Alley, and The Plaza.

E-mail us to be added to the waiting list.

Puss and Boots...Finds a New End at Applause for Kids Theatre in Buckhead, (19 spaces left) April 25, 2006, 10:15 to 12:00ish, $8.50 per person ($7.00 per person if paid by April 11)

This production is performed by homeschoolers!!! Come show your support for their hard work and creativity.

When a young girl discovers that the end of her story book is missing, a group of young actors - ages 10 to 18 - help her find the story's end. They incorporate song, dance, rap, and audience participation in an imaginative journey through five famous stories -- until finally, the cat is able to make the Miller's youngest son rich and happy.

This new adaptation of the classic "Puss in Boots" fairy tale brings several other stories to the stage to teach young audiences the magic and wonder of reading.

Included in this play are the stories of The Three Little Pigs, Jack and the Beanstalk, The Ugly Duckling, Goldilocks and the Three Bears, Peter Rabbit, and Hansel and Gretel.

This play is great for the whole family and especially geared for pre-school through third grade.

Chastain Park is right around the corner and has a great playground, so bring a picnic and plan on staying to enjoy the beautiful Spring weather.

E-mail us to confirm space availability.

Cagle's Dairy in Cherokee County, (FULL: e-mail us to be added to the waiting list) April 28, 2006, 11:00 to 12:30ish, $10.00 per person ($8.00 if paid by April 14th)

On the Dairy Tour...Your actual tour will be divided into several stages, starting with a hay ride and herding demonstration by Scott Cagle's award-winning Border Collies. You will see baby calves being bottle fed, and get a first-hand look at how a live cow is milked. You will also visit the Processing Facility. Children will learn how milk gets from the cow to the grocery store!

E-mail us to be added to the waiting list.

Aquatic Adventures at the Aquarium, (FULL: e-mail to be added to the waiting list) May 25, 2006, 1:30 to 3:30ish, $13.00 per person ($10.50 per person if paid by May 11th)

The Aquatic Adventures program is a guided adventure through three aquatic habitats on the Learning Loop. Students will explore both freshwater and marine environments. They will rotate among the following galleries:

The Freshwater Gallery will focus on the river ecosystem and its inhabitants. Students will explore how all rivers are connected, study about river animals, and experiment with the effects of pollution on a river.

The Coral Reef Gallery explores the reef as a living organism. Students will go behind the scenes of the coral exhibit and investigate the creatures that call it home. They will also sneak a peak into the Georgia Aquarium's aquaculture lab.

The Research Gallery presents current research topics in an interactive way. As students search for clues among the exhibits, they will gain an understanding of current research being conducted at the aquarium, our local universities and throughout Georgia.

E-mail us to be added to the waiting list.

Circus of the Sea at the Center For Puppetry Arts, (13 tickets left) September 9th, 2006, 10:15 to 1:00ish, $12.00 per person includes a puppet-making workshop! ($9.50 if paid by August 26th)

This is a Saturday, so the wole family can come join the fun! If you've never been to the Center For Puppetry Arts, this will be a fantastic introduction. And if you've experienced the magic of a puppet show, this production will be a unique treat!

Grab your goggles and dive right in! This wacky ocean odyssey is filled with fishy facts and fun by Emmy-nominated solo puppeteer Lee Bryan, a.k.a. “That Puppet Guy.” Can Cecelia the Seahorse cyclist succeed in the longest leap of her little life under the Big Top? Will Octavious the Octopus be able to find matching shoes for his big tap-dancing number? And what about Seamore the Shark? Did he come just to watch the circus…or eat it?! Perfect for all ages!

E-mail us to reserve your place.

Felting with Christina Gordon in Pickens County, (13 spaces) September 12th, 2006, 11:00 to 2:00ish, $20.00 per person, and you get to take home your project! ($16.00 if paid by August 29th)

Christina Gordon has been involved in outdoor education for almost 10 years, and has been teaching full time for the past 2. She has offered classes and seminars at Earthskills events, the Ossatchee Indian Festival and Pow-Wow, Alpharetta Elementary School, the Alafia River Rendezvous, other National Rendezvous and Living History Foundation events, and she has assisted with programs at the First Montessori School of Atlanta.

Felting is the process of taking raw wool from a sheep and turing it into a usable fabric. Come join us as Christina teaches to make draw-string felt bags. We will begin with raw wool, discuss the difference between spinning vs felting wool, and then we get create our own project. This program is appropriate for all ages, though kids under 7 will need assistance from mom or dad.

E-mail us to reserve your place.

Outdoor Climbing with the Staff of Adrenaline, (Program Full) September 14th, 2006, 9:00 to 5:00, $85.00 per climber (includes a delicious, organic lunch, gear rental, and instruction)($68.00 if paid by August 31st)

Come join us for this amazing experience! We will visit the beautiful foothills of North Georgia (near LaFayette) as the Adrenaline staff guide us in a climbing adventure. If you've never challenged yourself on the cliffs, you're in for quite a treat!

Most other guided climbing trips cost $120-200 per person, so once again, Adrenaline is being extremely generous in providing fantastic programs for the homeschoolers of Georgia at affordable prices. Don't let this opportunity pass you by!

Climbers must have attended at least two of our indoor climbing days, or have other climbing experience.

E-mail us to reserve your place.

America's Pathways to Independence at the Cobb County Youth Museum, (Sorry! program full, but there's a waiting list) September 18th, 2006, 11:15 to 1:30ish, $10.00 per person ($8.00 if paid by September 4th)

Unique among participatory museums, the Cobb County Youth Museum uses role-playing to involve children in the learning experience.

Students will see and participate in events leading to the American Revolutionary War including the Stamp Act and the tax on tea. We will meet Samuel Adams and Paul Revere. Students will then see and participate in several key battles and the writing of the Declaration of Independence. We will meet an American spy, and learn how America won its independence from England. We will also meet General George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and others. Finally, we will participate in the Constitutional Convention held in Philadelphia. Issues discussed focus on how the government is to be organized. We will meet Benjamin Franklin, Alexander Hamilton, Edmond Randolph, William Patterson, the Georgia delegates, and others.

Come join us for this unique learning experience!

E-mail us to be added to the waiting list.

A Day at 74 Ranch in Pickens County, (full with a waiting list) October 13th, 2006, 10:00 to 1:00ish, $10.00 per student, $14.00 per adult ($8.00/11.00 if paid by September 15th)

Children younger than 4 years old are not permitted for safety reasons.

Join us for an exciting day at the 74 Ranch! Discuss the differences among horses and cattle of different breeds, visit the new foaling center sponsored by the University of Georgia, learn about hoof care, horse anatomy, long-horns, and the history of western cattle. Try roping, fishing, and much more!

The 74 Ranch is one of the few 'western' ranches in the southeast, home to longhorns and a variety of horses, rolling fields and centuries of Native American and Appalachian history. Come get a glimpse of cowboy life from hosts Pam and Larry Butler as they share their beautiful ranch with us.

E-mail us to be added to the waiting list

First Look at the High Museum of Art, (only 4 spaces left!) October 17th, 2006, 10:00, $10.00 per person ($8.00 if paid by October 3rd)

(Grades K–5) This introductory tour of the High's permanent collection focuses on the fundamental elements of art—line, color, light, and composition. Students will learn the language of art and identify the basic building blocks of visual expression. Students will have the opportunity to produce their own works of art and make the connection between works in the Museum's collection and art-making by participating in special age-appropriate hands-on activities.

E-mail us to reserve your place.

Gourd Crafts with Scott Jones, (only 3 spaces left!) October 24th, 2006, 11:45 to 4:00ish, $30.00 per person includes all materials ($24.00 if paid by October 10th); near the 85/285 intersection off Chamblee Tucker

Scott Jones brings almost 20 years of professional experience to the field of primitive technology, including demonstrations, presentations, experimental archaeology, and consulting for archaeological forms, museums, documentary films, and universities throughout the southeast.

Containers play a major role in our society. The definition of a container is 'an object that can be used to hold or transport something,' so they can range from bags, boxes, and jars to houses, planes, and cars. Containers are everywhere, and Scott will help us understand the history of how they first developed. He will explain early agriculture, primitive tools, pigments, the first containers, and their uses.

We will then each get our own gourd to create a container to take home. And you'll even get seeds to grow gourds at home! Come learn and create with us!

E-mail us to reserve your place.

Aladdin at the Alliance, (this program is full; please e-mail to be added to the waiting list) October 26th, 2006, 11:30 to 1:00ish, $10.00 per person ($8.00 if paid by October 12th), includes a talk-back following the show!

A Whole New World of Music and Fun!

Make way for the magical tale of young Aladdin’s bid to win the spirited Princess Jasmine’s hand in marriage. This Disney musical, newly adapted for young audiences, has been a favorite since the movie’s release in 1992. Hop a carpet and fly to the Alliance Theatre and explore “a whole new world” with us.

Synopsis:
In the city of enchantment, Princess Jasmine feels imprisoned by her father’s demand that she must marry. One day she escapes to see the world outside of the palace walls. Here she meets Aladdin, a young man who feels just as imprisoned by his poverty. They instantly fall for each other. When Aladdin is arrested by the Sultan’s guard on charges of theft, he is placed in a cave, rather than a jail cell. Here he meets a genie, who helps make his wildest dreams come true!

Why We Love This Musical:
Aladdin is a classic rags to-riches Arabian tale. Combine the story with a score by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman (Little Shop of Horrors, The Little Mermaid), and Tim Rice (Evita), mix in some of Disney’s unforgettable characters and then add the final ingredient – The Magic of Live Theatre. This is an unbeatable combination, resulting in top-notch entertainment for the entire family!

We have arranged for a talk-back following the show. Stay and speak with theatre staff (and possibly some of the actors, schedule permitting) about the show. They'll answer all your questions!

Best enjoyed by children age 6 and up

E-mail us to be added to the waiting list

Aquarium Day!, (program full; sorry! I suggest you join the waiting list) November 9th, 2006, 1:15 to 3:30ish, $15.00 per person ($12.00 if paid by October 26th)

The long awaited Aquarium vist has been scheduled. Homeschool Excursions has reserved 90 spaces on this day, and we are currently compiling a list of interested families. Please let us know if you'd like to join us, and tell us how old your kids are. We will be setting the schedule in the coming weeks. On this day, the 90 students will be broken down into smaller groups based on their ages. Additional information about the classes will be posted soon.

Kids younger than 4 years old are not permitted on the tour because of the Aquarium's insurance policy.

The Aquarium has strict parent/student ratios. Their rule for schools is 1 adult per 10 students. For homeschoolers they allow 1 adult per 2 students per family. So a family of 1-3 kids can bring 1 adult, and a family of 4 or more kids can bring 2 adults.

This program includes participation in the behind-the-scenes Educational Loop. Admission to the main floor of the Aquarium is not included.

Please choose one of these programs. Include your childs' grade level and preferred program in your registration request.

Classes will be divided into these age groups:
Deepot Detectives: pre-K to K; K to 1st grade; 2nd to 3rd grade
Aquatic Adventures: K to 2nd grade; 3rd to 5th grade; 6th to 8th grade; 9th to 12th grade
Eco Explorers: 4th to 5th grade; 6th to 8th grade
Sea S.I.: 9th to 12th grade

Program Descriptions:
Deepo Detectives
The Deepo Detectives program takes students through an underwater mystery. Deepo, the Georgia Aquarium's mascot, helps students crack the case. This exciting program integrates current technology with traditional story telling and allows students to direct the course of the program based on their conclusions! Along the way, they will learn about the life history of some of our aquatic animals and uncover the solution to the mystery using cooperative learning strategies. After students complete their investigation, they will investigate some of the habitats and animals they have studied.

Aquatic Adventures
The Aquatic Adventures program is a guided adventure through three aquatic habitats on the Learning Loop. Students will explore both freshwater and marine environments. They will rotate among the following galleries:
The Freshwater Gallery will focus on the river ecosystem and its inhabitants. Students will explore how all rivers are connected, study about river animals, and experiment with the effects of pollution on a river.
The Coral Reef Gallery explores the reef as a living organism. Students will go behind the scenes of the coral exhibit and investigate the creatures that call it home. They will also sneak a peak into the Georgia Aquarium's aquaculture lab.
The Research Gallery presents current research topics in an interactive way. As students search for clues among the exhibits, they will gain an understanding of current research being conducted at the aquarium, our local universities and throughout Georgia.

Eco-Explorers
The Eco-Explorers program immerses students in a themed learning environment. This program provides an in-depth look into various parts of the aquatic world. Students will participate in hands-on activities that introduce them to the concept of scientific inquiry, allow them to interact with animals and collect data for analysis.

The intimate setting of our learning labs provides an opportunity for more directed learning and enhances students' understanding of aquatic ecosystems. Animal interactions are provided to reinforce the concepts that are being taught and to help students make a personal, life long connection to aquatic ecosystems!

After participating in our Eco-Explorers program, your junior explorers will emerge from the aquarium with a greater understanding of the role that research plays in their lives.

Sea S.I.
The Sea.S.I. program is an investigation into how the nation's largest aquarium operates. Students will examine various components of the aquarium's infrastructure including animal husbandry, nutrition, filtration, and conservation. The Sea.S.I. program allows students to apply math and science concepts to examine real world scenarios.

The program will begin with a brief overview of the Georgia Aquarium followed by two (45 minute) lessons. Teachers will be given the opportunity to choose two topics from the following list that best suits their students!
Animal Husbandry - This program focuses on the care and maintenance of aquatic organisms at the Georgia Aquarium. Students will use problem-solving strategies to find solutions to husbandry related issues.
Research and Conservation This program focuses on current research and conservation initiatives at the Georgia Aquarium. Students will observe aquarium staff and investigate opportunities to be better stewards of the environment.
Aquatic Engineering - This program focuses on the aquarium's life support system. Students will investigate the technology used to maintain healthy aquatic environments.
Aquatic Appetites This program focuses the dietary and nutritional needs of the aquarium's animals. Students will investigate the preparation and techniques used to feed our animals.

E-mail us to join the waiting list

A Day with Russell and Christina, (full with a waiting list) November 14th, 2006, 11:00 to 3:30ish, $24.00 per person includes lunch! ($20.00 if paid by October 31st)

Join Christina Gordon and Russell Cutts as they explore the world of a "Primitive Naturalist"; ancestral "reduce-reuse-recycle" of an animal and it's many parts- hides, bones, hooves and sinews, in addition to the meat! Also of utmost importance-FIRE! How to forage wild fire and use it safely and creatively!

Christina will be teaching us how to use all parts of an animal: bones for tools, tanned hide for material, sinew for cordage, etc. Russell is an expert in the field of fire (he's actually written a book on the subject!). He will explain the importance of fire in the history of man, he'll teach fire-by-friction techniques, and much more!

Some of the skills and crafts that will be demonstrated are making fish hooks and other tools from bone, a brief introduction to hide tanning, and felting. Materials will be available for purchase at the event should you decide to try this at home (such as enough bone to make an awl or other larger tool).

Kids younger than 8 may need adult assistance, and the content is catered to kids 6 years and older.

E-mail us to be added to the waiting list

Tour of the Federal Reserve Bank in Atlanta, (program full) December 4th, 2006, 12:30 to 3:30ish, Click Here for price information

The Visitors Center and Monetary Museum features a display on the history of money; interactive, multimedia exhibits explaining the Federal Reserve’s role in the economy; and a view of the bank’s automated vault and cash processing areas. In addition, most group tours include a stop in the bank’s boardroom.

Kids must be at least 8 years old. Nobody younger than 8 will be allowed according to the Reserve's regulations.

Registration will be closed after November 20th. I need to submit names of all the participants by this date for a background check, so be sure to register early!

E-mail us to reserve your space

A Christmas Carol at the Alliance, (program full) December 12th, 2006, 9:45 to 1:00ish, $16.00 per person

A special gift to all Atlanta, this classic tale comes to life in a glittering, festive celebration of the holiday spirit. Performed by Atlanta’s finest actors and singers, the Alliance’s Broadway-scale musical rendition of this beloved Christmas story has been a holiday tradition for 17 years.

Synopsis:
A greedy and heartless miser named Ebenezer Scrooge learns the meaning of compassion after he is visited on Christmas Eve by four fantastic spirits: the ghost of his former partner Jacob Marley, the Ghost of Christmas Past, the Ghost of Christmas Present and the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come. The specters reveal to Scrooge visions of his lonely youth, the effects of his selfishness on his present day acquaintances and the dire future that awaits him if he continues on his current path in life. Once through the journey, Scrooge awakens on Christmas morning transformed, determined to keep Christmas forever after.

Why We Love This Play:
Now in its 17th season, A Christmas Carol has become a grand tradition at the Alliance Theatre. This glittering production, with its lavish sets and costumes, is more than a majestic musical spectacle. It is an annual reminder to check in with ourselves and renew our spirits of generosity and compassion. This production reflects Atlanta’s diversity and we hear from patrons every season that the Alliance’s A Christmas Carol has become a part of their family holiday tradition.

Best enjoyed by children age 6 and up

E-mail us to reserve your space

Dinosaurs at the Center For Puppetry Arts, (program full with a waiting list) January 12th, 2007, 9:30 to 1:00ish, $15.00 per person includes a puppet-making workshop! ($12.00 if paid by December 29th)

ROAR! I want to be a DINOSAUR!” sings Francine the cute little blue songbird. Join Francine and her eccentric Auntie Archaeopteryx on a trip back in time where you will come face to face with a T-Rex, Triceratops, Apatosaurs and many, many more awesome swinging, singing dinosaurs. Our stage is almost too small to hold the rollicking giant puppets and rocking songs. And in the end Francine learns a little secret about herself. ROAR! DINOSAURS GALORE!

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Tour the Original Mattress Factory in Marietta, (program full with a waiting list) January 26th, 2007, 9:30 to 12:00ish, Click Here for price information

Where do you sleep at night? Probably on a mattress! Well, have you ever wondered how that mattress is made? We tend to take many of the day-to-day components of our lives for granted, but when you think about it, people dedicate their lives to making the things we use daily.

Come learn how mattresses are made. When you break it down, there are many parts - quilting, springs, frame, etc. See how they put it all together. And increase your appreciation for your nightly comfort.

Kids aged 6 years and older will benefit most from this program.

E-mail us to be added to the waiting list

Billy Goats Gruff and Other Stuff at the Center For Puppetry Arts, (13 tickets left) February 22nd, 2007, 9:45 to 1:00ish, $17.00 per person includes a puppet-making workshop! ($14.00 if paid by February 8th)

Meet a cantankerous toll troll, a wolf that’s allergic to blueberries and a host of other kooky characters in Billy Goats Gruff & Other Stuff, adapted by David Stephens, performed by Michael Haverty. Stephens’ adorable puppets and “feel good” music are back at the Center for Puppetry Arts in this UNIMA-USA award-winning show.
Traditional folk tales get a clever new spin, while a few of Stephens’ original stories are mixed in for a medley that’s fun for everyone. Learn Little Red Riding Hood’s first name, the secret to Parker Pig’s good fortune and the consequences of being a selfish toll troll in these witty adaptations of “Little Red Riding Hood,” “The Three Little Pigs,” and “Billy Goats Gruff.” Finicky chickens get their feathers ruffled to the sounds of ‘20s jazz in “Tales for the Telling,” and Farmers Frick and Frack learn to join forces after combining their harvest for a mouth-watering stew in “The Two Farmers.” Colorful glove, hand and rod puppets sport exaggerated features and smiling faces that add to the fun of this one-man performance. So get out your toe-tapping shoes and get ready to laugh!

E-mail us to register

Go Dog Go! at the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta, (program full, please e-mail to be added to the waiting list) March 9th, 2007, 11:15 to 2:00ish, $9.00 per person includes a back stage tour following the show! ($7.50 if paid by February 23rd)

Go, Dog. Go! to the Alliance Theatre to celebrate the rollicking adaptation of P.D. Eastman’s ageless classic of the same name. A masterpiece of physical comedy, these clowning, colorful, tree-climbing canines dance, swim and skate in a free-for-all of simple doggy fun. Bring the whole family because this adventure is not just for puppies.

For "puppies" of all ages

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Tour the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, (21 spaces left) March 13th, 2007, 10:30 to 1:00ish, $18.00 per adult, $11.00 per student ($15.00 per adult & $9.00 per student if paid by February 27th)

This tour is subject to cancellation or a date change. The Fox does not approve tours more than a month in advance, but the tour coordinator said it most likely will not be a problem.

Explore the mysterious interior of the Fabulous Fox Theatre, one of the few remaining exotic movie palaces of the 1920's. Middle eastern and Egyptian designs create a dreamlike spectacle of grandeur. Learn about the inspiration behind the Egyptian Ballroom, Grand Salon and Spanish Room, as well as the many other intriguing rooms within the Fox, without performance crowds.

E-mail us to register

Tour the Roswell Fire Station, (7 tickets left) April 5th, 2007, 10:00 to 12:00ish

Join us for this FREE tour of Roswell Fire Station number one and the fire museum!

The museum contains numerous fire-related pictures and historical information that pertain to the Roswell area. Additionally, there are also artifacts concerning fire history in Atlanta as well as information and static displays illustrating the fire service in general. The main piece of history that occupies the museum is a 1947 Ford American LaFrance Pumper. This is an original piece of fire fighting equipment that was used by the City of Roswell. This fire truck is taken out of the museum occasionally to ensure proper maintenance and to allow it to operate for a period of time. The truck also participates in a parade or two throughout the year.

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Galapagos George, The Little Tortoise that Could at the Center For Puppetry Arts, (5 tickets left) April 12th, 2007, 9:30 to 1:00ish, $18.00 per person includes a puppet-making workshop! ($15.00 if paid by March 29th)

Fall in love with a turtle! His name is George, and he lives in the gorgeous Galapagos lslands. Solo puppeteer Heidi Rugg takes audiences across the Pacific and un-hatches an ecologically-minded, award-winning tale based on the true story of a gentle giant. You’ll marvel at the life of the world’s largest and longest-living tortoise as he beats the odds in a paradise populated by sea lions, lizards and blue-footed birdies. This show is gentle, sweet and funny…just like George himself.

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Walking Tour of Inman Park in Atlanta, (24 spaces left) April 24th, 2007, 10:30 to 1:00ish, $17.00 per adult, $10.00 per student ($14.00 per adult & $8.00 per student if paid by February 27th)

Visit Atlanta's first trolley suburb and see the elegant Victorian homes built by Coca-Cola magnates Asa Candler and Ernest Woodruff. Dating from 1889, Inman Park has become a nationally celebrated example of neighborhood preservation. Discover the distinctive features that make up Victorian period architecture: turrets, sweeping porches and elaborate gingerbread woodwork.

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Cowboy Poetry Documentary Filming at the 74 Ranch in Jasper, (20 spaces left) April 25th, 2007, 10:00 to 12:00ish, $5.00 per person (must be 9 years old or older to attend)

Cowboy poetry is a rapidly disappearing art form, but the folks at the 74 Ranch are going to do all they can to help preserve this craft. On April 25th, they will be filming a documentary at the Ranch, and you're invited to come watch the filming process. Come learn about this genre of literature, as well as what it takes to film a documentary!

Bring a blanket or chair and a picnic lunch, and come join us for this unique experience. However, the kids will need to stay quiet during the filming. For this, and other safety reasons, all kids must be at least 9 years old, and an adult must be present with each family. The age limit will be strictly adhered to, so please keep that in mind when registering.

E-mail us to register

Used Curriculum and Book Sale at Roberts School in Acworth, April 25th, 2007, 10:00 to 1:00

Seller info: It’s spring! It’s time to clear out your closets and bookshelves.
Give someone else a chance to use those books that worked so great for your kids
or that you never got around to using.

There is a $5.00 seller’s fee but no percentage of sales is required.
If your items sell well and you’d like to make a donation to the HSE Enrichment Program it would be greatly appreciated.

Setup will start promptly at 9:30am.
Please have all of your items marked BEFORE arriving at the sale.

This is an honor system sale so each item will need to have an envelope attached with the following info clearly visible:
Sellers name
Item name (brief description if desired)
Item price (Items should be priced in .25 or $1.00 increments for ease of payment)

Buyers info: Please bring ones and quarters as this is an honor system sale and no change will be available.

If you are interested in selling please contact Dyanne Richardson to register prior to sale so we can make room for everyone. You can register by email or phone: 770 424-3711 or crazedmamy@bellsouth.net

If you haven’t visited the HSE Enrichment Program, be sure to ask about the classes that are held at Roberts School.

Beauty and the Beast at the Center For Puppetry Arts, (10 tickets left) May 3rd, 2007, 9:30 to 1:00ish, $15.00 per person includes a puppet-making workshop! ($12.00 if paid by April 19th)

Beauty and the Beat. This classic fairy tale hip-hops into the street when a pile of junk comes to life in a back alley under a full moon. Rags, mops and brooms dance to tunes. Things thrown away perform the play. Imagination rules in this visual feast and Beauty finds her Beast. A not-to-be missed Center classic!

E-mail us to register

Homeschool Talent Show at Roberts School in Acworth, May 5th, 2007, 5:00, presale tickets are $3.00 per adult, or $5.00 at the door; kids are free

Kids of all ages are invited to come perform or to bring artwork! Come share your masterpieces!

For more information regarding performances, please contact Tina Von Buseck at momentbymoment@earthlink.net or 678-574-7223

For more information regarding submitting art pieces, please contact Betty Carr at bettyjcarr@bellsouth.net or 770-974-9940

We look forward to seeing you there!

Tour the Vulcan Quarry in Kennesaw, (program full with a waiting list) May 7th, 2007, 9:30 to 12:00ish, Click Here for price information

Tours typically include a general presentation by a Vulcan representative before the group proceeds on the tour of the production facility. The general presentation includes information about Vulcan Materials Company, the use of minerals within society and particularly the role aggregates play in today's world. There is also a discussion of the mining process, how we produce aggregates, the regulatory and permitting requirements and reclamation efforts. A safety talk is also included that addresses the safety requirements for the specific tour and group of visitors. And we'll get to go and visit the pit! (weather permitting)

E-mail us to be added to the waiting list

Walking Tour of Historic Downtown Atlanta, (24 spaces left) May 15th, 2007, 10:30 to 1:00ish, $17.00 per adult, $10.00 per student ($14.00 per adult & $8.00 per student if paid by May 2nd)

Experience Atlanta's earliest high-rise district, beginning at the historic Candler Building and winding through interiors of several of Atlanta's landmark structures. You'll see how Atlanta's downtown architecture developed from Victorian period styles to Art Deco to modern, and learn about the businessmen, architects, and prominent families who created the city's early commercial center.

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Outdoor Climbing with the Staff of Adrenaline, May 17th, 2007, 9:00 to 5:00, $85.00 per climber (includes a delicious, organic lunch, gear rental, and instruction)($68.00 if paid by May 7th)

Come join us for this amazing experience! We will visit the beautiful foothills of North Georgia (near LaFayette) as the Adrenaline staff guide us in a climbing adventure. If you've never challenged yourself on the cliffs, you're in for quite a treat!

Most other guided climbing trips cost $120-200 per person, so once again, Adrenaline is being extremely generous in providing fantastic programs for the homeschoolers of Georgia at affordable prices. Don't let this opportunity pass you by!

Climbers must have attended at least two of our indoor climbing days, or have other climbing experience.

E-mail us to reserve your place.