High School Career Expo

Fermilab is hosting an event geared toward technologically minded students in a couple weeks.

Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics [STEM] Career Expo for High School Students

Where: Fermilab, Wilson Hall
Wednesday, April 11, 2012

5:30–8:30 PM

Come and join math, science, engineering, & technology experts from a wide variety of careers.

  • Meet scientists, engineers, & technicians
  • Ask career questions of the experts
  • Ask experts about educational pathways leading to specific careers
  • Discuss career fields with professional association representatives
  • Attend panel discussions on career areas
  • Access career expo resources

The STEM Career Expo is a cooperative effort of Kane and DuPage county schools, hosted by Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory.

For more information, send e-mail to edreg@fnal.gov.

WW II Presentation

For full details about this event and to register: http://www.pritzkermilitarylibrary.org/Home/refighting-the-pacific-war.aspx

When: Thursday, March 29, 2012

What: Jim Bresnahan, Elliot Carlson, John Lundstrom, Jon Parshall
REFIGHTING THE PACIFIC WAR

Program & Live Webcast — 6:00 p.m. (CT)

Cost: Members free / non-members $10

Refighting the Pacific War is published by the U.S. Naval Institute Press. Contributors to this alternative WWII history include the noted military historians William Bartsch, John Lundstrom, Douglas Smith, Barrett Tillman, and H. P. Willmott, among others. In a roundtable discussion format, more than thirty veterans and historians address “what if” questions about the war in the Pacific. Their differing views on possible outcomes of various campaigns and the implications of those changes on the course of history are certain to provoke debate. All major naval campaigns and key battles are discussed along with such questions as whether Japan could have inflicted even greater damage at Pearl Harbor, how Admiral Yamamoto might have won at Midway, and the impact of that victory on the direction of the war. The book also explores whether the war was inevitable and whether the conflict could have ended without the use of the atomic bomb. Vice Admiral Yoji Koda, Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (Ret.), provides the book’s introduction.

Please note: To guarantee seating for this event a reservation is required. Call 312.374.9333 or click here. Latecomers are seated at discretion of management. There is no refund or exchange of tickets.

Sponsored by U.S. Naval Institute with special thanks to Captain Edward A. Studzinski, USNR (Ret.), for his generous assistance in making the success of Refighting the Pacific War: An Alternative History of World War II, including the electronic version and USNI sponsorship of this program possible.

Pritzker Military Library

104 S. Michigan Ave.

Chicago, IL 60603

312.374.9333

Review and Giveaway — A Perfect Pet Pal for Peyton

A Perfect Pet for Peyton: A 5 Love Languages Discovery Book
The concept of love languages has restored countless marriages and helped many parents to connect with their children on a significantly deeper level. Learning to express love in a way it can be heard is a skill that cannot begin too soon.
Dr. Gary Chapman has joined up with Rick Osborne and Wilson Williams to craft a picture book to help children grasp this relationship-altering knowledge. As with the other 5 love languages materials, this book is top notch in appearance and in clear presentation of the material.
My kids always get excited about packages, but sometimes when they see it is “just another book” they head off their separate directions. Not so this time. As soon as my 8yo got it out of the package, her older sister and younger brother were begging me to take a break and read to them. With my toddler copying, “Book, book.” How could I refuse?
The story takes the reader through the birthday celebration of a set of twins, a boy and girl, who are excited about the day ahead when they would celebrate their birthday at Mr. Chapman’s Perfect Pet Pal Emporium. Throughout the day as they interact with the animals and their birthday party guests, you clearly see the various love languages exemplified in each character. An example of each love language comes to life as the children hug, compliment, help, give, and just enjoy each others company.  And, in the process they each find an animal that is a living example of their language as well.
My kids completely loved this book and I have read it countless times already. The colorful pictures, the animals on each page, the hidden insect in each picture, and even the conversation about love languages drew them in time and again. The book closes with some conversation starters to begin to help children to see their own love language and that of others as well.
This book offers a great way to draw your family together and is great for any age child. It is a longer picture book, so younger kids might enjoy it more split up over a few sittings. For my 6 and up kids we read it straight through each time.  The lesson fits for everyone and can be a great spark to encourage a greater demonstration of  love between siblings.

Learn more about the five love languages and Dr. Chapman here:

Of course, one fortunate reader will win a copy of this fantastic book. If you would like a chance to win this book leave a comment on this post. Be sure to leave your email address as well so I can get in touch with you if you win.

This time around you can enter three times total. First, a freebie for anyone. Second, leave a second comment sharing your love language and/or your child’s love language. Third, share about this giveaway somewhere (facebook, twitter, email, etc.) and come back to leave another comment as an entry.  I’ll plan to pick a winner on Monday evening April 2. Go get ’em! 🙂

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or
services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it
on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally
and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance
with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the
Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Free entrance to National Parks

Free Entrance Days in the National Parks

(while some parks are free everyday, these are days you can get in free to some that usually charge an admission)

Yosemite National Park, Photo by DanNgNPS/Dan Ng

Yosemite Falls can be seen from numerous areas around Yosemite Valley. A one-mile loop trail leads to the base of Lower Yosemite Fall.

America’s Best Idea – the national parks – gets even better with several fee-free days at more than 100 national parks that usually charge entrance fees.*

Mark your calendar for these fee-free dates in 2012:

  • April 21-29: National Park Week

  • June 9
    Get Outdoors Day
  • September 29
    National Public Lands Day
  • November 10-12
    Veterans Day weekend

To make the fun even more affordable, check out these discounts and special offers from park partners and neighboring businesses:

Here’s a tip – many of your 397 national parks NEVER charge an entrance fee. So start Planning Your Visit!

*Fee waiver includes: entrance fees, commercial tour fees, and transportation entrance fees. Other fees such as reservation, camping, tours, concession and fees collected by third parties are not included unless stated otherwise.

Student Job Fair

Student Job Fair

This year our Job Fair will be held on Wednesday, March 21st from 5:00 to 7:30 pm. It will be held at Merner Field House on the North Central College Campus.

The KidsMatter Annual Student Job Fair is funded in part by The DuPage Community Foundation and local sponsors. The annual KidsMatter Job Fair is THE one-stop place for young people to find seasonal & summer jobs. The Fair provides job opportunities as well as mock interviews, resume workshops, and internship experiences to prepare students for the workforce. Endorsed by the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce, last year’s Fair attracted over 1,500 students.

In this tough economy, the Fair will help high school and college students find part-time or seasonal employment.

Each student who attends the Fair will receive a free Resource Booklet summarizing the opportunities available at each participating business along with their contact information. The booklet also includes a section that provides tips and tactics students can refer to in order to increase their odds of securing a job. It answers questions such as:

“How do I prepare for an interview?”

“Who should I use as a reference?”

“What qualities are employers looking for?”

Other Features:

What Not To Do In An Interview, including individual “mock” interviews with students – facilitated by the Heritage YMCA Internship Opportunities & Information–throughout the evening Career Opportunities: Including Naperville Police Department, Naperville Fire Department, Plumber’s Union, U.S. Army, Hair Professionals School of Cosmetology, and more.

ht: Naperville Home Educators

TeenPact Illinois

A unique opportunity in Springfield.

A blurb from the TeenPact website:

TeenPact is a dynamic, hands-on leadership school for Christian students. Our mission is to train youth to understand the political process, value their liberty, defend their Christian faith and engage the culture at a time in their lives when, typically, they do not care about such things.

The TeenPact experience is one of intentional growth, education and encouragement. We believe that God gives every young person a great spiritual capacity as well as a scriptural mandate to cultivate and use their talents – even before they are old enough to drive, work or vote!  TeenPact trains these young people to embrace their call as the next generation of leaders by giving them tools, teaching and opportunities.

Each TeenPact program is marked by spiritual discipleship, student leadership, parental involvement and a commitment to excellence. Our loyal base of parent volunteers and student leaders keep the vision alive and growing as we continue to expand nationally. Founded in 1994 by Tim Echols, TeenPact currently offers classes in 38 states and counting.

“Changing lives to change the world” is more than a motto to us. It’s literally what we do every day.

TeenPact Illinois

Four Day Class: (ages 13-19)

April 23-26, 2012
Mon: 1pm – 5pm
Tue – Thu: 8:45am – 3pm

First Time Students: $225
Returning Students: $185

Host housing may be available

Please contact your State Coordinator

Guest Director: Ned Williams

Political Communication Workshop: (ages 13-19)

April 27, 2012
10am – 4pm

Price: $50
($40 with 4-Day Class Purchase)

One Day Class: (ages 8-12)

April 27, 2012
10am – 4pm

First Child: $40
Siblings: $30

All the rest of the details:

http://teenpact.com/state-classes/illinois/

Blacksmith available for demonstrations

Received this via email:

Steven Helis, Blacksmith

Are you looking for a knowledgeable Demonstrator of the Art of Blacksmithing?

Look no further!

Steven Helis has been practicing the craft for 30 years. He has participated in historical reenactments, living history demonstrations and served as the Blacksmith for the Will County Historical Society’s Pioneer Settlement.

He is well versed in the history of Blacksmithing from ancient times to the modern age. His skill level is sufficient to demonstrate the various aspects of forging iron into useful implements, tools and works of art. He can show how his abilities come together by giving a live exhibition using his portable forge, anvil & tools. He also has examples of things made by blacksmiths. His fees vary on travel time and references are available on request.

If you or your organization would like to have a live presentation on the History & Art of Blacksmithing please contact him at his email address, stefanhelis@gmail.com or Pager # 815-241-5497.

You can also enjoy his demonstration as part of the Pilcher Park Nature Center’s annual Pioneer Fest & Pancake Breakfast on March 24- 25th.

Maple Syrup

No matter what corner of the Chicago area you find yourself in, you will likely be able to check out a maple syrup festival somewhere during this month.

Here are a few of the festivals that I am aware of. Feel free to add any others in the comments. These are generally very educational events that the whole family can enjoy.

North Park Village Nature Center

5801 N. Pulaski Rd.
Chicago, IL , 60646
(312) 744-5472

Bring the family to experience the entire maple syrup making process, from tapping the tree and collecting sap to boiling it down to syrup. Stroll the sugar bush, enjoy storytelling and live music, make a craft, and taste homemade syrup.

Fees: Free

Age Range: All Ages

See the entire maple syrup-making process from tapping the tree and collecting the sap, to boiling it down into syrup.  Take a walk through the sugar bush, enjoy storytelling, make a maple craft, warm yourself by the fire, and taste real maple syrup fresh off the fire.   The Maple Syrup Festival is a sweet and warm tradition that is free and fun for all ages. No registration required.

Pioneer Fest and Pancake

Breakfast! Enjoy pancakes, sausage, and 100% pure maple
syrup! Come for the maple syrup making
demonstrations and try your hand at pioneer chores
while stepping back into time with our pioneer reenactors.
Age: All
Pilcher Park Nature Center
Sat/Sun 3/24-3/25 8 am-12 pm
$9 Adults/$7 Children under 12 (my understanding is that the fee is only if you are eating, but call to confirm this)

Phone: 815-741-PARK (7275)

Sap Collectors

Fullersburg Woods, Dupage County

Mar. 9, 2012

Hike to the sugarbush to collect sap from sugar maple trees. Ages 6 and up; under 14 with an adult. $3 per person. To register, call (630) 850­-8110.

  • Mar 2, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. at Fullersburg Woods
  • Mar 9, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. at Fullersburg Woods
  • Mar 16, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. at Fullersburg Woods

Maple Sugaring Days

Naper Settlement

Saturday and Sunday, March 10 & 11, 2012
Maple Sugaring Days

The history of maple sugaring
Maple sugaring was an integral part of American life in the 1800s and was the foremost sweetener until the end of the Civil War. A community social event celebrating the arrival of spring, the difficult work involving in collecting and processing the sap required many hands. This festive gathering was a welcome diversion following a long winter. Until the end of the Civil War, maple products were the most important food sweeteners in the United States because they were far less expensive and more available than cane sugar.

Time:
Saturday 10:00 am-4:00 pm
Sunday 1:00-4:00 pm

Ticket Information:
$9 adults
$8 seniors (62+)
$6.50 youth (4-17)
Naperville Heritage Society members and Season Pass Holders receive free admission.

And,  the one at Kline Creek Farm already passed, but here is a YouTube video that they took to show the tree tapping. I’m sure the drill is authentic 1840s 😉

And here are a couple more places to find lists of maple sugaring events in Illinois and surrounding states:

http://www.midwestweekends.com/plan_a_trip/touring/spring_scenery/maple_syrup_festivals.html

http://www.chitowncheapskate.com/2012/03/chicagoland-march-maple-syrup-events.html

Review and Giveaway: The Woodcarver

Teenage conflict, a marriage that needs work, God blurring out of focus. These create the backdrop for a family ripe for renewal.

Nothing brings a family together like manual labor in stressful situations. Working side by side, the individuals in this fractured family begin to remember what they liked about each other and what they lost sight of in the pressures of everyday life.

Ernest Otto challenges Matthew to just ask himself one question before acting, “What would Jesus do?” And, Matthew finds that the answer sometimes surprises him, and his change of heart surprises everyone else in the process. He continues to learn from Ernest as his family is pieced back together along with the wood he had destroyed in an act of vandalism.

I appreciate that the film does not make it out that trusting God will make your life hunky-dorey. Otto lost his wife to cancer in the past, but did not lose his confidence in the power of prayer.  The story kept the attention of our whole family and had enough ups and downs and unexpected challenges to keep us on our toes.

The only disappointment to me was the ending. Poor Otto sitting by his wife’s grave crying over how much he misses her. I would have preferred him expressing his sorrow but remembering that he doesn’t mourn as those that have no hope. But, I guess they were just keeping it real.

Overall, a great film that might make you reconsider some of your own priorities and brush the dust of that well worn question, “What would Jesus do?”

The Woodcarver - DVD
The Woodcarver DVD
(releases Tuesday, March 13th)


About the Movie:
Matthew Stevenson is a troubled kid from a broken home. When he vandalizes the local church to get back at his parents, Matthew has to repair the damage to the church to avoid criminal charges. While working at the church, he meets Ernest (John Ratzenberger), an accomplished wood carver who created the intricate woodwork decoration that Matthew destroyed. Ernest has become something of a hermit, but reluctantly comes out of reclusion to help repair the church. Now Ernest and Matthew must work together to preserve the church’s beautiful antiquity, and along the way, they also manage to restore their faith in God and in life.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of this movie please leave a comment on this post. You can earn a second entry by sharing about this giveaway on facebook, twitter, etc. and leaving a second comment. The drawing will be open until Friday March 16th in the evening. Make sure to leave an email address that I can reach you at when you win!

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or
services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it
on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally
and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance
with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the
Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”