Thursday, August 31, 2017
CBS2 Exclusive: Staten Island Woman Diagnosed With Spinal Meningitis After Being Bitten By Tick
CBS2 Exclusive: Staten Island Woman Diagnosed With Spinal Meningitis After Being Bitten By Tick: She says six other people in the Hugenot Beach neighborhood have also been diagnosed with tick borne diseases this summer, and something has to be done.
Devil's Tower UFO Rendezvous aims to attract all the UFO enthusiasts
http://www.devilstoweruforendezvous.com/
SEE WHERE IT ALL BEGAN IN CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE THIRD KIND AND COME SEE THE TREMENDOUS CAST OF SPEAKERS AT THE DEVILS TOWER UFO RENDEZVOUS!
Devils Tower, An Evocative Setting For Many Types Of Experiences And Forms Of Expression. An astounding geologic feature that protrudes out of the rolling prairie surrounding the Black Hills. This site is considered Sacred to the Lakota and many other tribes that have a connection to the area. Hundreds of parallel cracks make it one of the finest traditional crack climbing areas in North America.
FIRST ANNUAL RENDEZVOUS - HULETT, WYOMING
SEPTEMBER 14, 15, & 16 - 2017
Close Encounters of the Third Kind is a 1977 American science fiction film written and directed by Steven Spielberg, and starring Richard Dreyfuss, François Truffaut, Melinda Dillon, Teri Garr, Bob Balaban, and Cary Guffey. It tells the story of Roy Neary, an everyday blue-collar worker in Indiana, whose life changes after an encounter with an unidentified flying object (UFO).
KEYNOTE SPEAKER - JAN HARZAN
TOPIC - "EVIDENCE OF EXTRATERRESTRIAL CONTACT FROM THE MUFON FILES"
SEE WHERE IT ALL BEGAN IN CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE THIRD KIND AND COME SEE THE TREMENDOUS CAST OF SPEAKERS AT THE DEVILS TOWER UFO RENDEZVOUS!
Devils Tower, An Evocative Setting For Many Types Of Experiences And Forms Of Expression. An astounding geologic feature that protrudes out of the rolling prairie surrounding the Black Hills. This site is considered Sacred to the Lakota and many other tribes that have a connection to the area. Hundreds of parallel cracks make it one of the finest traditional crack climbing areas in North America.
FIRST ANNUAL RENDEZVOUS - HULETT, WYOMING
SEPTEMBER 14, 15, & 16 - 2017
Close Encounters of the Third Kind is a 1977 American science fiction film written and directed by Steven Spielberg, and starring Richard Dreyfuss, François Truffaut, Melinda Dillon, Teri Garr, Bob Balaban, and Cary Guffey. It tells the story of Roy Neary, an everyday blue-collar worker in Indiana, whose life changes after an encounter with an unidentified flying object (UFO).
KEYNOTE SPEAKER - JAN HARZAN
TOPIC - "EVIDENCE OF EXTRATERRESTRIAL CONTACT FROM THE MUFON FILES"
Nearly 400 new species discovered in Amazon
Sao Paulo (AFP) - Researchers have found 381 new species in the Amazon rainforest, the World Wildlife Fund announced Wednesday, warning that the discoveries were all in areas threatened by human activity.
The report by the WWF and Brazil's Mamiraua Institute, released in Sao Paulo, listed 216 previously unknown plants, 93 fish, 32 amphibians, 19 reptiles, one bird and 20 mammals, two of them fossils.
A new species is discovered in the Amazon area, spread over nine South American countries, every two days on average.
This is the third report in a series, listing 2,000 new species over the last 17 years. However, the good news comes with a worrying trend, the WWF said.
"All the species that were discovered, all 381, are in areas where humankind is destroying the Amazon. This is very important to us, because it links the fact that our economic activities are causing species to go extinct before we even know about them," Ricardo Mello, WWF Brazil Amazon program coordinator, said.
"We have to show this and act so that economic activity is more transparent," he said.
The new species of pink river dolphin is estimated to have a population of 1,000, but they are under threat from the construction of hydroelectric dams as well as industrial and agricultural activity.
The report by the WWF and Brazil's Mamiraua Institute, released in Sao Paulo, listed 216 previously unknown plants, 93 fish, 32 amphibians, 19 reptiles, one bird and 20 mammals, two of them fossils.
A new species is discovered in the Amazon area, spread over nine South American countries, every two days on average.
This is the third report in a series, listing 2,000 new species over the last 17 years. However, the good news comes with a worrying trend, the WWF said.
"All the species that were discovered, all 381, are in areas where humankind is destroying the Amazon. This is very important to us, because it links the fact that our economic activities are causing species to go extinct before we even know about them," Ricardo Mello, WWF Brazil Amazon program coordinator, said.
"We have to show this and act so that economic activity is more transparent," he said.
The new species of pink river dolphin is estimated to have a population of 1,000, but they are under threat from the construction of hydroelectric dams as well as industrial and agricultural activity.
The discovery of antidepressants in aquatic life in the river raises serious environmental concerns,
Human antidepressants are building up in the brains of bass, walleye and several other fish common to the Great Lakes region, scientists say.
In a new study, researchers detected high concentrations of these drugs and their metabolized remnants in the brain tissue of 10 fish species found in the Niagara River.
This vital conduit connects two of the Great Lakes, Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, via Niagara Falls. The discovery of antidepressants in aquatic life in the river raises serious environmental concerns, says lead scientist Diana Aga, PhD, the Henry M. Woodburn Professor of Chemistry in the University at Buffalo College of Arts and Sciences.
"These active ingredients from antidepressants, which are coming out from wastewater treatment plants, are accumulating in fish brains," Aga says. "It is a threat to biodiversity, and we should be very concerned.
"These drugs could affect fish behavior. We didn't look at behavior in our study, but other research teams have shown that antidepressants can affect the feeding behavior of fish or their survival instincts. Some fish won't acknowledge the presence of predators as much."
If changes like these occur in the wild, they have the potential to disrupt the delicate balance between species that helps to keep the ecosystem stable, says study co-author Randolph Singh, PhD, a recent UB graduate from Aga's lab.
"The levels of antidepressants found do not pose a danger to humans who eat the fish, especially in the U.S., where most people do not eat organs like the brain," Singh says. "However, the risk that the drugs pose to biodiversity is real, and scientists are just beginning to understand what the consequences might be."
The research team included other scientists from UB, Ramkhamhaeng University and Khon Kaen University, both in Thailand, and SUNY Buffalo State. The study was published on Aug. 16 in the journal Environmental Science and Technology.
A dangerous cocktail of antidepressants in the water
Aga has spent her career developing techniques for detecting contaminants such as pharmaceuticals, antibiotics and endocrine disrupters in the environment.
Wastewater treatment facilities have failed to keep pace with this growth, typically ignoring these drugs, which are then released into the environment, Aga says.
Her new study looked for a variety of pharmaceutical and personal care product chemicals in the organs and muscles of 10 fish species: smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, rudd, rock bass, white bass, white perch, walleye, bowfin, steelhead and yellow perch.
Antidepressants stood out as a major problem: These drugs or their metabolites were found in the brains of every fish species the scientists studied.
The highest concentration of a single compound was found in a rock bass, which had about 400 nanograms of norsertraline—a metabolite of sertraline, the active ingredient in Zoloft—per gram of brain tissue. This was in addition to a cocktail of other compounds found in the same fish, including citalopram, the active ingredient in Celexa, and norfluoxetine, a metabolite of the active ingredient in Prozac and Sarafem.
More than half of the fish brain samples had norsertraline levels of 100 nanograms per gram or higher. In addition, like the rock bass, many of the fish had a medley of antidepressant drugs and metabolites in their brains.
Evidence that antidepressants can change fish behavior generally comes from laboratory studies that expose the animals to higher concentrations of drugs than what is found in the Niagara River. But the findings of the new study are still worrisome: The antidepressants that Aga's team detected in fish brains had accumulated over time, often reaching concentrations that were several times higher than the levels in the river.
In the brains of smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, rock bass, white bass and walleye, sertraline was found at levels that were estimated to be 20 or more times higher than levels in river water. Levels of norsertraline, the drug's breakdown product, were even greater, reaching concentrations that were often hundreds of times higher than that found in the river.
Scientists have not done enough research yet to understand what amount of antidepressants poses a risk to animals, or how multiple drugs might interact synergistically to influence behavior, Aga says.
Wastewater treatment is behind the times
The study raises concerns regarding wastewater treatment plants, whose operations have not kept up with the times, says Aga, a member of the UB RENEW (Research and Education in eNergy, Environment and Water) Institute.
In general, wastewater treatment focuses narrowly on killing disease-causing bacteria and on extracting solid matter such as human excrement. Antidepressants, which are found in the urine of people who use the drugs, are largely ignored, along with other chemicals of concern that have become commonplace, Aga says.
"These plants are focused on removing nitrogen, phosphorus, and dissolved organic carbon but there are so many other chemicals that are not prioritized that impact our environment," she says. "As a result, wildlife is exposed to all of these chemicals. Fish are receiving this cocktail of drugs 24 hours a day, and we are now finding these drugs in their brains."
The problem is exacerbated, Singh says, by sewage overflows that funnel large quantities of untreated water into rivers and lakes. In August, for example, The Buffalo News reported that since May of 2017, a half billion gallons of combined sewage and storm water had flowed into local waterways, including the Niagara River.
More information: Prapha Arnnok et al. Selective Uptake and Bioaccumulation of Antidepressants in Fish from Effluent-Impacted Niagara River, Environmental Science & Technology (2017). DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.7b02912
Read more at: https://phys.org/news/2017-08-antidepressants-fish-brains-great-lakes.html#jCp
Hurricane Harvey Hero saves over 50 people
Gaelon Phillips, 23, waited for around seven to eight hours in his hometown of Port Arthur for a rescue helicopter to show up - before being told they couldn’t take his family because they were so busy.
The artist and music producer, whose Facebook page was filling up with messages from friends and neighbours begging to be rescued, then decided to take matters into his own hands.
Gaelon’s uncle and a friend came round with a boat and together they worked tirelessly all Wednesday to rescue 50 stricken people - including newborn babies, elderly people and the sick - and get them to dry land.
The 23-year-old revealed how many in his town feel like their plight was ignored while the focus was on Houston - around 110 miles away.
People need to know it’s not just Houston that is affected by this we all need help here too - don’t forget us.
“I want people to see what we are going through.”
Gaelon’s home began to flood at around midnight on Tuesday evening and with water rising fast he began calling all the emergency numbers he could - with no response.
Eventually he climbed on to his roof and managed flag a helicopter down at around 8am on Wednesday.
“The water was rising fast otherwise we wouldn’t have been on the roof,” he said.
“We did not know it was going to be that bad - our house got completely trashed.
“The helicopter let down a member of the coastguard on to our roof.
“I had got my mom out on the roof from the attic because I was going to tell her to go with them first.
“But the coastguard notified us that he was actually looking for one of our neighbours who had a brain aneurysm so they were obviously the priority but he said he would come back.
“I stayed on the roof to make sure they wouldn’t forget about us but by that time my uncle came around with a boat so I came down to go and rescue all the other people that needed help.
“I left my parents behind - thinking that they would be rescued by the helicopter - but they never were. So a few hours later I had to go back and rescue my own parents.”
https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/4359655/hurricane-harvey-texas-port-arthur-latest-gaelon-phillips/
The artist and music producer, whose Facebook page was filling up with messages from friends and neighbours begging to be rescued, then decided to take matters into his own hands.
Gaelon’s uncle and a friend came round with a boat and together they worked tirelessly all Wednesday to rescue 50 stricken people - including newborn babies, elderly people and the sick - and get them to dry land.
The 23-year-old revealed how many in his town feel like their plight was ignored while the focus was on Houston - around 110 miles away.
People need to know it’s not just Houston that is affected by this we all need help here too - don’t forget us.
“I want people to see what we are going through.”
Gaelon’s home began to flood at around midnight on Tuesday evening and with water rising fast he began calling all the emergency numbers he could - with no response.
Eventually he climbed on to his roof and managed flag a helicopter down at around 8am on Wednesday.
“The water was rising fast otherwise we wouldn’t have been on the roof,” he said.
“We did not know it was going to be that bad - our house got completely trashed.
“The helicopter let down a member of the coastguard on to our roof.
“I had got my mom out on the roof from the attic because I was going to tell her to go with them first.
“But the coastguard notified us that he was actually looking for one of our neighbours who had a brain aneurysm so they were obviously the priority but he said he would come back.
“I stayed on the roof to make sure they wouldn’t forget about us but by that time my uncle came around with a boat so I came down to go and rescue all the other people that needed help.
“I left my parents behind - thinking that they would be rescued by the helicopter - but they never were. So a few hours later I had to go back and rescue my own parents.”
https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/4359655/hurricane-harvey-texas-port-arthur-latest-gaelon-phillips/
Houston ISD Students Will Receive Three Free Meals Daily
HOUSTON (CBS HOUSTON) – The Houston Independent School District announced on Wednesday that they will provide three free meals to their all of their students during the 2017-18 school year. This was made possible after receiving approval from USDA and the Texas Department of Agriculture to waive an application process for the National School Lunch/Breakfast program.
The decision comes in the wake of the devastation created by Hurricane Harvey and its aftermath. Despite the federal waiver, HISD is still asking parents and guardians to complete and return the application. The National School Lunch/School Breakfast Program applications and surveys are available at https://mealapps.houstonisd.org.
The information received in the forms helps the district to secure funding and track student data.
“The flooding that is affecting the city of Houston has been devastating to so many. Some of the areas that are the hardest hit are filled with working parents whose limited funds will need to go toward recovery efforts,” said Houston ISD Superintendent Richard Carranza. “This waiver will give our families one less concern as they begin the process of restoring their lives. It will also provide a sense of normalcy by allowing students to have access to up to three nutritious meals each and every school day.”
According to the release, HISD certified 191 schools to participate in the Community Eligibility Program — giving nearly 123,955 students access to free lunch and breakfast. Just last week, the Texas Department of Agriculture approved the district’s application to offer free supper to all of the district’s students. This latest announcement supports the district’s goals of reducing food insecurity and providing food to as many students as possible.
“It will take months, possibly years for the city to recover. We expect families to be displaced, students to attend new schools, and many of them possibly using alternative ways to travel to and from school,” said Nutrition Services Officer Betti Wiggins. “We want to reduce any stress connected to food while families work toward getting their personal affairs in order. All HISD students will have access to good food, made with as many local and fresh ingredients as possible and served with love and a smile.”
The waiver will take effect immediately, allowing students to take advantage of free meals when school resumes.
Great Barrier Reef
The great barrier reef is actually around 20 million years old. It’s an ancient and very large home to living things. It’s made up of living coral growing on top of dead coral. There are many generations of coral that has died and turned into stone. It is now covered is a very diverse range of living creatures such as, anemones, sponges, worms, turtles, snakes, coral, algae crustaceans, star fish and many many more.
During the last ice age the water level dropped in the ocean exposing large parts of the the great barrier reef facts for kids history of reef great barrier reef. This allowed the aborigine people to venture out on to the reef on foot. This occurred around 40,000 years ago. When the ice age ended, the ice melted and flooded water back into the oceans raising the sea level. The dead coral now flourished and began to great living organisms again. It was around 10,000 years ago that the ice age ended, and about 8,000 years ago that the great barrier reef started growing again.
Interesting Facts About The Great Barrier Reef
There is an incredible amount of diversity with marine life at the great barrier reef.
- 450 types of corals
- 4000 types of molluscs
- 1500 types of fish
There are more species of animals and marine life found per cubic meter of the great barrier reef than any other environment in the world! This does also include the tropical rainforests and jungles. There are actually more species of animals in the great barrier reef than the entire Caribbean Ocean.
Click The Link Below To Learn More About Helping The Great Barrier Reef!
https://www.fightforourreef.org.au/
Fun Fact: the great barrier reef is about the size of 70 million football fields!
You will find 6 different species of turtles at the great barrier reef. There is the Flatback, Olive Ridley, Hawksbill, Green, Loggerhead and the Leatherback. That is actually 6 out of 7 species found in the world. The only one not at the reef is the Kemp’s Ridley turtle, they are found in the Gulf of Mexico.
DID YOU KNOW?
Some of the Reef's inhabitants, such as turtles and crocodiles, have been around since prehistoric times and have changed little over the millennia.
Finding Nemo, the clown fish (anemone fish) can be found all over the great barrier reef.
The great barrier reef is visible from the moon.
The Reef is highly vulnerable. In the past three decades, it has lost half its coral cover, pollution has caused deadly starfish outbreaks, and global warming has produced horrific coral bleaching. Coastal development also looms as a major threat. That’s why we need to act quickly and fight for the conservation of the Great Barrier Reef.
Coral bleaching
Coral bleaching is the result of global warming caused by the mining and burning of fossil fuels like coal. Global warming is heating our oceans, and if the water stays too hot for too long, corals bleach and die.
Farm pollution
Farm pollution is one of the key drivers of the Reef’s decline. It smothers corals and seagrass beds and denies them sunlight, drives crown of thorn starfish outbreaks, and makes coral more vulnerable to bleaching. Nitrogen runoff from farms can also lead to algal blooms, which starfish larvae feed on, promoting population explosions.
Governance
Sadly, the scale and number of problems the Reef now faces have outgrown the capacity of the institutions and systems put in place a generation ago to protect it. The Reef needs a stronger champion to defend it from industrialisation, overfishing and a multitude of other threats.
Industrialisation
There are plans to expand several ports along the Great Barrier Reef coastline. Port expansion leads to dredging of the seafloor, increased shipping traffic, and a range of other impacts on the delicate coastal and marine environment of this World Heritage Area.
Fishing
Poor management of commercial, recreational and Indigenous fishing is increasing the threats to many of Queensland’s threatened species including dugongs, turtles and inshore dolphins. Fisheries management needs to be supported by investment into expanded data collection and compliance programs.
Wednesday, August 30, 2017
Australian Outback
Did you know? Two thirds of the country consist of desert landscape which is referred to as 'outback'.
The Outback is a term used by people to describe the remote territories outside urban areas that are can be defined as being wilder than the bush. The four biggest Australian Deserts are the Great Victoria Desert, Great Sandy Desert, Tanami Desert, and Simpson Desert, and they all form part of the Australian Outback. The Australian Outback covers an area of approximately 5.3 million square kilometers and makes up for almost 70% of Australia's inland.
The Australian Outback occupies a large part of inland Australia, and it refers to any territory that it is not occupied by humans. Although most tourists use the word ‘Outback', most of the time they are talking about the region between Alice Springs and Uluru/Ayers Rock. That region, in actual fact, represents the Red Centre.
Australian Outback Population is made up of approximately 1300 small Aboriginal communities. They are all protected by the Northern Territory Aboriginal Land Rights and The Commonwealth Native Title Act. In 2009, there were almost 180,000 desert people, and up to 394,000 semi-arid people. Contrary to belief, the Aborigines do not live in the outback. Approximately 75% of them live in cities and non-remote areas. Whilst the remainder generally live in remote or very remote areas, most of them area considered part of the bush. Around 30% of the Aboriginals are concentrated in the north part of Australia, while in the Australian Capital only 4% of the population is recognized as Aboriginals.
Because the Australian Outback is a large territory, it is under the influence of numerous factors. This is why there are multiple climates. One of them is the desert climate, with temperatures depending on the proximity to the centre. Another one is a wet/dry tropical climate, which is more characteristic of the Northern Australian Outback. There are two arid climate zones experienced in the Australian Outback and the main difference between them is the temperature experienced during the winter season. One of these climates has a mild, warm winter, while the other is subject to colder winters. Also, the differences between daytime and night time temperatures experienced in the Australian Outback can be extreme. The daytime temperature can reach 40 degrees Celsius, whilst the night time temperature can drop to freezing point. The northern Australia region is characterized by a tropical climate with two seasons which can be described as a dry season with mild temperatures and a wet season which is hot and humid. In Ayers Rock, the average temperatures of 36.8 degrees Celsius in December and 37.5 degrees Celsius in January have been recorded.
Short-beaked Echidna
There are mammals such as Australian Kangaroos (over 60 species), Australian Dingo, Koala, Platypus or Echidna. Camels are not native to Australia, however, the outback boasts a huge wild camel population. The Australian Outback is home to various types of snakes including the King Brown, Tiger Snake, Black-Headed Rock-Python, and Olive Python.The arachnids living in the Australian Outback are believed to be very dangerous, although most of the fear actually comes from their appearance as opposed to how poisonous they really are. The Redback Spider, Huntsman Spider, Australian Tarantulas, 'Bird-eating spiders' and Golden Orb Wearer are all types of spiders found in these regions. There are many types of lizards that exist in the Australian Outback including the Blue Tongue Lizard, Frilled Neck Lizard, Thorny Devil, Bearded Dragon, Geckos and Legless Lizards.
Australian outback has the perfect soil to support the growth of more than 1800 types of plants. Most of them can be categorised as evergreen, wildflowers (Wheatbelt, Esperance and South Coast, Dainty Star, Mulla Mulla), large shrubs (Emu bush, Low BlueBush, Bladder Saltbush), small trees (sandalwood) and large trees (Western Myall). Among the plant life found in the Australian Outback, you can find the Spinifex grass, Sturt's Desert Pea, Kangaroo Paws and Blaze Cassia.
The Outback is a term used by people to describe the remote territories outside urban areas that are can be defined as being wilder than the bush. The four biggest Australian Deserts are the Great Victoria Desert, Great Sandy Desert, Tanami Desert, and Simpson Desert, and they all form part of the Australian Outback. The Australian Outback covers an area of approximately 5.3 million square kilometers and makes up for almost 70% of Australia's inland.
The Australian Outback occupies a large part of inland Australia, and it refers to any territory that it is not occupied by humans. Although most tourists use the word ‘Outback', most of the time they are talking about the region between Alice Springs and Uluru/Ayers Rock. That region, in actual fact, represents the Red Centre.
Australian Outback Population is made up of approximately 1300 small Aboriginal communities. They are all protected by the Northern Territory Aboriginal Land Rights and The Commonwealth Native Title Act. In 2009, there were almost 180,000 desert people, and up to 394,000 semi-arid people. Contrary to belief, the Aborigines do not live in the outback. Approximately 75% of them live in cities and non-remote areas. Whilst the remainder generally live in remote or very remote areas, most of them area considered part of the bush. Around 30% of the Aboriginals are concentrated in the north part of Australia, while in the Australian Capital only 4% of the population is recognized as Aboriginals.
Because the Australian Outback is a large territory, it is under the influence of numerous factors. This is why there are multiple climates. One of them is the desert climate, with temperatures depending on the proximity to the centre. Another one is a wet/dry tropical climate, which is more characteristic of the Northern Australian Outback. There are two arid climate zones experienced in the Australian Outback and the main difference between them is the temperature experienced during the winter season. One of these climates has a mild, warm winter, while the other is subject to colder winters. Also, the differences between daytime and night time temperatures experienced in the Australian Outback can be extreme. The daytime temperature can reach 40 degrees Celsius, whilst the night time temperature can drop to freezing point. The northern Australia region is characterized by a tropical climate with two seasons which can be described as a dry season with mild temperatures and a wet season which is hot and humid. In Ayers Rock, the average temperatures of 36.8 degrees Celsius in December and 37.5 degrees Celsius in January have been recorded.
Short-beaked EchidnaThere are mammals such as Australian Kangaroos (over 60 species), Australian Dingo, Koala, Platypus or Echidna. Camels are not native to Australia, however, the outback boasts a huge wild camel population. The Australian Outback is home to various types of snakes including the King Brown, Tiger Snake, Black-Headed Rock-Python, and Olive Python.The arachnids living in the Australian Outback are believed to be very dangerous, although most of the fear actually comes from their appearance as opposed to how poisonous they really are. The Redback Spider, Huntsman Spider, Australian Tarantulas, 'Bird-eating spiders' and Golden Orb Wearer are all types of spiders found in these regions. There are many types of lizards that exist in the Australian Outback including the Blue Tongue Lizard, Frilled Neck Lizard, Thorny Devil, Bearded Dragon, Geckos and Legless Lizards.
Australian outback has the perfect soil to support the growth of more than 1800 types of plants. Most of them can be categorised as evergreen, wildflowers (Wheatbelt, Esperance and South Coast, Dainty Star, Mulla Mulla), large shrubs (Emu bush, Low BlueBush, Bladder Saltbush), small trees (sandalwood) and large trees (Western Myall). Among the plant life found in the Australian Outback, you can find the Spinifex grass, Sturt's Desert Pea, Kangaroo Paws and Blaze Cassia.
Tuesday, August 29, 2017
Australia Facts
Australia is the smallest inhabited continent of the seven continents can also be considered the largest island in the world. In fact it is an island continent.
The country is divided into six states (Southern Australia, Western Australia, New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria and Tasmania) and two self-governing territories: Northern Territory and Australian Capital Territory (which is around Canberra, the capital city).
The flag of Australia is a defaced Blue Ensign: a blue field with the Union Jack in the canton, and a large white seven-pointed star known as the Commonwealth Star in the lower hoist quarter.
Name: Commonwealth of Australia
Government: Democracy
Population: 23, 6 million (2013)
Capital: Canberra with 380,000 people (2013)
Language: English
Currency: 1 Australian Dollar=100 Cents
Religion: mainly Christians
National Symbols:
Golden wattle (flower), opal (gemstone), green and gold (colors)
golden wattle
In terms of mountains worldwide, Australia’s largest is in fact, a midget. Standing only 2,228 metres, it’s around a quarter of the size of Mount Everest. As the chart below demonstrates
The only place in the world you’ll find these little furballs. This is a Mountain Pygmy Possum and they are found solely within a 10km radius of the Mount Kosciuszko region.
Australia is home to many animal species. On the road signs, you can see a wombat and a kangaroo. Both animals are marsupials, which means, they carry their babies in their pouch. Wombats have sharp teeth, but are herbivores that means they eat grasses, bark and roots. They mainly are night-active, but can also be seen out looking for food on cool and overcast days.
The Great Barrier Reef in Eastern Australia is the biggest coral reef in the world. The reef consists of more than 3,000 reefs in which live more than 350 species of corals and over 1,500 species of fish.
The Great Barrier Reef, off the coast of Queensland in northeastern Australia, is the largest living thing on Earth, and even visible from outer space.
The country is divided into six states (Southern Australia, Western Australia, New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria and Tasmania) and two self-governing territories: Northern Territory and Australian Capital Territory (which is around Canberra, the capital city).
Name: Commonwealth of Australia
Government: Democracy
Population: 23, 6 million (2013)
Capital: Canberra with 380,000 people (2013)
Language: English
Currency: 1 Australian Dollar=100 Cents
Religion: mainly Christians
National Symbols:
Golden wattle (flower), opal (gemstone), green and gold (colors)
golden wattleIn terms of mountains worldwide, Australia’s largest is in fact, a midget. Standing only 2,228 metres, it’s around a quarter of the size of Mount Everest. As the chart below demonstrates
The only place in the world you’ll find these little furballs. This is a Mountain Pygmy Possum and they are found solely within a 10km radius of the Mount Kosciuszko region.
Australia is home to many animal species. On the road signs, you can see a wombat and a kangaroo. Both animals are marsupials, which means, they carry their babies in their pouch. Wombats have sharp teeth, but are herbivores that means they eat grasses, bark and roots. They mainly are night-active, but can also be seen out looking for food on cool and overcast days.
The Great Barrier Reef in Eastern Australia is the biggest coral reef in the world. The reef consists of more than 3,000 reefs in which live more than 350 species of corals and over 1,500 species of fish.
The Great Barrier Reef, off the coast of Queensland in northeastern Australia, is the largest living thing on Earth, and even visible from outer space.
Monday, August 28, 2017
BLOCK PRINTING WITH HANDMADE LIFE –FREE EBOOK RESOURCE
School Resource
CREATIVE EDUCATORS: BLOCK PRINTING WITH HANDMADE LIFE – EBOOK RESOURCE
Year 7 to Year 12
Creative Educators is a suite of teacher professional learning programs designed to inspire secondary art and design teachers. Teachers explore the NGV collection and exhibitions with hands-on artist lead practical workshops. Ideas, techniques and resources will then be documented in an eBook.
During Crafted Fashion with handmade life, we met Melbourne textile creatives Ramona Barry and Beck Jobson. Teachers participated in innovative block printing techniques that could be used in the secondary art and design curriculum.
Creative eBooks share content from the Creative Educators and Creative Encounters programs and provide additional resources to inspire and enrich teaching and learning in visual arts and design.
This education resource is available in two formats. A digital PDF for viewing on all devices and printing and a Multi Touch book for iOS devices which enables some extra levels of interactivity.
RESOURCES
https://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Block-printing-with-HANDMADELIFE-Web.pdf
CREATIVE EDUCATORS: BLOCK PRINTING WITH HANDMADE LIFE – EBOOK RESOURCE
Year 7 to Year 12
Creative Educators is a suite of teacher professional learning programs designed to inspire secondary art and design teachers. Teachers explore the NGV collection and exhibitions with hands-on artist lead practical workshops. Ideas, techniques and resources will then be documented in an eBook.
During Crafted Fashion with handmade life, we met Melbourne textile creatives Ramona Barry and Beck Jobson. Teachers participated in innovative block printing techniques that could be used in the secondary art and design curriculum.
Creative eBooks share content from the Creative Educators and Creative Encounters programs and provide additional resources to inspire and enrich teaching and learning in visual arts and design.
This education resource is available in two formats. A digital PDF for viewing on all devices and printing and a Multi Touch book for iOS devices which enables some extra levels of interactivity.
RESOURCES
https://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Block-printing-with-HANDMADELIFE-Web.pdf
Sunday, August 27, 2017
Blue Mountains Legend
Australian Aboriginal myths (also known as Dreamtime stories, Songlines or Aboriginal oral literature) are the stories traditionally performed by Aboriginal peoples within each of the language groups across Australia.
The Dreamtime contains many parts: It is the story of things that have happened, how the universe came to be, how human beings were created and how the Creator intended for humans to function within the cosmos.
The expression 'Dreamtime' is most often used to refer to the 'time before time', or 'the time of the creation of all things', while 'Dreaming' is often used to refer to an individual's or group's set of beliefs or spirituality.
For instance, an Indigenous Australian might say that they have Kangaroo Dreaming, or Shark Dreaming, or Honey Ant Dreaming, or any combination of Dreamings pertinent to their 'country'. However, many Indigenous Australians also refer to the creation time as 'The Dreaming'.
What is certain is that 'Ancestor Spirits' came to Earth in human and other forms and the land, the plants and animals were given their form as we know them today.
These Spirits also established relationships between groups and individuals, (whether people or animals) and where they traveled across the land, or came to a halt, they created rivers, hills, etc., and there are often stories attached to these places.
Once their work was done, the Ancestor Spirits changed again; into animals or stars or hills or other objects. For Indigenous Australians, the past is still alive and vital today and will remain so into the future. The Ancestor Spirits and their powers have not gone, they are present in the forms into which they changed at the end of the 'Dreamtime' or 'Dreaming', as the stories tell.
The stories have been handed down through the ages and are an integral part of an Indigenous person's 'Dreaming'.
Each tribe has its individual dreamtime although some of the legends overlap. Most 'Dreamtime' originates with the Giant Dog or the Giant Snake, and each is unique and colorful in its explanation.
Legends of the 'Dreamtime' are handed down by word of mouth and by totem from generation to generation. It involves secret rituals and rites, and some classified as 'Men's Business' and some as 'Women's Business'. Colorful, symbolic and enthusiastic dancing and corroborees are used to pass on the stories of the creation.
Blue Mountains
According to an Aboriginal dreamtime story, the three huge rocks formation were once three beautiful sisters named "Meehni", "Wimlah" and "Gunnedoo" from the Katoomba tribe. The three sisters fell in love with three brothers from the Nepean tribe but their tribal laws forbade their marriage. The three brothers did not accept this law and tried to capture the three sisters by force. This caused a major tribal battle and the lives of the three sisters were thus threatened. A witchdoctor decided to turn the sisters into rocks in order to protect them and thought to reverse the spell only after the battle. Unfortunately, he was killed in the battle and the three sisters remained as the enormous and beautiful rock formations until today. The magnificent formation stands at 922m, 918m, and 906m respectively.
There was a time when everything was still. All the spirits of the earth were asleep - or almost all. The great Father of All Spirits was the only one awake. Gently he awoke the Sun Mother. As she opened her eyes a warm ray of light spread out towards the sleeping earth. The Father of All Spirits said to the Sun Mother, "Mother, I have work for you. Go down to the Earth and awake the sleeping spirits. Give them forms."
The Sun Mother glided down to Earth, which was bare at the time and began to walk in all directions and everywhere she walked plants grew. After returning to the field where she had begun her work the Mother rested, well pleased with herself. The Father of All Spirits came and saw her work, but instructed her to go into the caves and wake the spirits.
This time she ventured into the dark caves on the mountainsides. The bright light that radiated from her awoke the spirits and after she left insects of all kinds flew out of the caves. The Sun Mother sat down and watched the glorious sight of her insects mingling with her flowers. However once again the Father urged her on.
The Mother ventured into a very deep cave, spreading her light around her. Her heat melted the ice and the rivers and streams of the world were created. Then she created fish and small snakes, lizards and frogs. Next she awoke the spirits of the birds and animals and they burst into the sunshine in a glorious array of colors. Seeing this the Father of All Spirits was pleased with the Sun Mother's work.
She called all her creatures to her and instructed them to enjoy the wealth of the earth and to live peacefully with one another. Then she rose into the sky and became the sun.
The living creatures watched the Sun in awe as she crept across the sky, towards the west. However when she finally sunk beneath the horizon they were panic-stricken, thinking she had deserted them. All night they stood frozen in their places, thinking that the end of time had come. After what seemed to them like a lifetime the Sun Mother peeked her head above the horizon in the East. The earth's children learned to expect her coming and going and were no longer afraid.
At first the children lived together peacefully, but eventually envy crept into their hearts. They began to argue. The Sun Mother was forced to come down from her home in the sky to mediate their bickering. She gave each creature the power to change their form to whatever they chose. However she was not pleased with the end result. The rats she had made had changed into bats; there were giant lizards and fish with blue tongues and feet. However the oddest of the new animals was an animal with a bill like a duck, teeth for chewing, a tail like a beavers and the ability to lay egg. It was called the platypus.
The Sun Mother looked down upon the Earth and thought to herself that she must create new creatures less the Father of All Spirits be angered by what she now saw. She gave birth to two children. The god was the Morning Star and the goddess was the moon. Two children were born to them and these she sent to Earth. They became our ancestors. She made them superior to the animals because they had part of her mind and would never want to change their shape.
http://www.crystalinks.com/dreamtime.html
The Dreamtime contains many parts: It is the story of things that have happened, how the universe came to be, how human beings were created and how the Creator intended for humans to function within the cosmos.
The expression 'Dreamtime' is most often used to refer to the 'time before time', or 'the time of the creation of all things', while 'Dreaming' is often used to refer to an individual's or group's set of beliefs or spirituality.
For instance, an Indigenous Australian might say that they have Kangaroo Dreaming, or Shark Dreaming, or Honey Ant Dreaming, or any combination of Dreamings pertinent to their 'country'. However, many Indigenous Australians also refer to the creation time as 'The Dreaming'.
What is certain is that 'Ancestor Spirits' came to Earth in human and other forms and the land, the plants and animals were given their form as we know them today.
These Spirits also established relationships between groups and individuals, (whether people or animals) and where they traveled across the land, or came to a halt, they created rivers, hills, etc., and there are often stories attached to these places.
Once their work was done, the Ancestor Spirits changed again; into animals or stars or hills or other objects. For Indigenous Australians, the past is still alive and vital today and will remain so into the future. The Ancestor Spirits and their powers have not gone, they are present in the forms into which they changed at the end of the 'Dreamtime' or 'Dreaming', as the stories tell.
The stories have been handed down through the ages and are an integral part of an Indigenous person's 'Dreaming'.
Each tribe has its individual dreamtime although some of the legends overlap. Most 'Dreamtime' originates with the Giant Dog or the Giant Snake, and each is unique and colorful in its explanation.
Legends of the 'Dreamtime' are handed down by word of mouth and by totem from generation to generation. It involves secret rituals and rites, and some classified as 'Men's Business' and some as 'Women's Business'. Colorful, symbolic and enthusiastic dancing and corroborees are used to pass on the stories of the creation.
Blue Mountains
There was a time when everything was still. All the spirits of the earth were asleep - or almost all. The great Father of All Spirits was the only one awake. Gently he awoke the Sun Mother. As she opened her eyes a warm ray of light spread out towards the sleeping earth. The Father of All Spirits said to the Sun Mother, "Mother, I have work for you. Go down to the Earth and awake the sleeping spirits. Give them forms."
The Sun Mother glided down to Earth, which was bare at the time and began to walk in all directions and everywhere she walked plants grew. After returning to the field where she had begun her work the Mother rested, well pleased with herself. The Father of All Spirits came and saw her work, but instructed her to go into the caves and wake the spirits.
This time she ventured into the dark caves on the mountainsides. The bright light that radiated from her awoke the spirits and after she left insects of all kinds flew out of the caves. The Sun Mother sat down and watched the glorious sight of her insects mingling with her flowers. However once again the Father urged her on.
The Mother ventured into a very deep cave, spreading her light around her. Her heat melted the ice and the rivers and streams of the world were created. Then she created fish and small snakes, lizards and frogs. Next she awoke the spirits of the birds and animals and they burst into the sunshine in a glorious array of colors. Seeing this the Father of All Spirits was pleased with the Sun Mother's work.
She called all her creatures to her and instructed them to enjoy the wealth of the earth and to live peacefully with one another. Then she rose into the sky and became the sun.
The living creatures watched the Sun in awe as she crept across the sky, towards the west. However when she finally sunk beneath the horizon they were panic-stricken, thinking she had deserted them. All night they stood frozen in their places, thinking that the end of time had come. After what seemed to them like a lifetime the Sun Mother peeked her head above the horizon in the East. The earth's children learned to expect her coming and going and were no longer afraid.
At first the children lived together peacefully, but eventually envy crept into their hearts. They began to argue. The Sun Mother was forced to come down from her home in the sky to mediate their bickering. She gave each creature the power to change their form to whatever they chose. However she was not pleased with the end result. The rats she had made had changed into bats; there were giant lizards and fish with blue tongues and feet. However the oddest of the new animals was an animal with a bill like a duck, teeth for chewing, a tail like a beavers and the ability to lay egg. It was called the platypus.
The Sun Mother looked down upon the Earth and thought to herself that she must create new creatures less the Father of All Spirits be angered by what she now saw. She gave birth to two children. The god was the Morning Star and the goddess was the moon. Two children were born to them and these she sent to Earth. They became our ancestors. She made them superior to the animals because they had part of her mind and would never want to change their shape.
http://www.crystalinks.com/dreamtime.html
Saturday, August 26, 2017
A giant, flying turkey as tall as a kangaroo once roamed Australia
The fossilised bone of a giant flying turkey (top) as compared with that of a regular turkey (bottom). The megapode birds lived during the Pleistocene era, between 1.6 million and 10,000 years ago.
Read more at: https://phys.org/news/2017-06-giant-turkey-roamed-australia.html#jCp
A giant, flying turkey as tall as a kangaroo once roamed Australia, palaeontologists said Wednesday, after an analysis of fossils and bones from around the country revealed five extinct bird species.
The megapode birds lived during the Pleistocene era, between 1.6 million and 10,000 years ago, alongside other giant Australian animals like diprotodons, marsupial lions and short-faced kangaroos.A team from Flinders University in South Australia said they were all chunky relatives of today's malleefowl and brush-turkeys.
Scientists had initially thought the fossils, first found in the 1880s, represented a single ancient bird, but fresh examination has led them to conclude they belong to five different species.
Among them was a turkey weighing up to eight kilograms (17 pounds) and standing taller than a grey kangaroo, which can reach 1.3 metres (4ft 3ins)—four times the size of modern fowl.
"These discoveries are quite remarkable because they tell us that more than half of Australia's megapodes went extinct during the Pleistocene, and we didn't even realise it until now," said researcher Elen Shute.
"We compared the fossils described in the 1880s and the 1970s with specimens discovered more recently, and with the benefit of new fossils, differences between species became really clear."
The newly found birds fall into two categories—"tall turkeys" that had long, slender legs, and "nuggetty chickens" that had short legs and broad bodies.
Unlike many large extinct birds, such as dodos, these megapodes were not flightless.
While big and bulky, their long, strong wing bones showed they could all fly, and probably roosted in trees, unlike their modern ground-dwelling cousins which build mounds to incubate their eggs.
Two of the new species come from the Thylacoleo Caves beneath Australia's vast Nullarbor Plain, which have proved a treasure trove since they were discovered 15 years ago.
"So far the Thylacoleo Caves have yielded seven new species of kangaroo, a frog, two giant ground-cuckoos, and now two new megapodes," said Flinders professor Gavin Prideaux.
"The closer we look, the more we keep finding."
More information: "Taxonomic review of the late Cenozoic megapodes (Galliformes: Megapodiidae) of Australia," Royal society open science Published 14 June 2017.DOI: 10.1098/rsos.170233
Read more at: https://phys.org/news/2017-06-giant-turkey-roamed-australia.html#jCp
Friday, August 25, 2017
Can you name the Beatles songs contained in the word ladder ?
https://www.sporcle.com/games/Flick/beatfun
Play thousands of free online trivia quiz games. There is a fun quiz about virtually every topic imaginable: Geography, History, Sports, Music, TV and more!
Thursday, August 24, 2017
Drawings found in textbooks
Since becoming a homeschool mom I've found somethings inside public school textbooks, this leads me to believe others have too.
This one made me mad.
10 Free Online Games homeschoolers and unschoolers need break too
http://www.friv.com/
*hundreds of games to choose from
http://www.knowledgeadventure.com/
*Knowledge Adventure's collection of one hundred fun, free online educational games for kids.
https://www.turtlediary.com/
*TurtleDiary activities pair with the appropriate grade level to enhance retention of material and increase success in the classroom.
http://www-en.toupty.com/
*Online educational games and colorings for kids from 3 to 10 years old
https://www.quia.com/pages/havemorefun.html
*This is a great site where children plan a variety of games to practice r’s, s’s, l’s, sh’s and ch’s.
https://www.teachervision.com/lesson-planning/game
*This large collection of online games will help build skills and concepts for grades Pre-K through 12.
http://www.gamequarium.com/languagearts.htm
*Hundreds of free, online language arts learning games and activities for Pre-School through Grade 6 students.
http://www.cbc.ca/kidscbc2/
*Play free kids games, watch videos, and explore activities, quirky quizzes and fun facts. Watch Artzooka, Big Block Sing Song and more.
https://lyricstraining.com/
*LyricsTraining is the new way to learn English and other languages through music and the lyrics of your favourite songs
https://www.crazygames.com/
*Play free online games at CrazyGames, including driving games, monster truck games, and many more!
*hundreds of games to choose from
http://www.knowledgeadventure.com/
*Knowledge Adventure's collection of one hundred fun, free online educational games for kids.
https://www.turtlediary.com/
*TurtleDiary activities pair with the appropriate grade level to enhance retention of material and increase success in the classroom.
http://www-en.toupty.com/
*Online educational games and colorings for kids from 3 to 10 years old
https://www.quia.com/pages/havemorefun.html
*This is a great site where children plan a variety of games to practice r’s, s’s, l’s, sh’s and ch’s.
https://www.teachervision.com/lesson-planning/game
*This large collection of online games will help build skills and concepts for grades Pre-K through 12.
http://www.gamequarium.com/languagearts.htm
*Hundreds of free, online language arts learning games and activities for Pre-School through Grade 6 students.
http://www.cbc.ca/kidscbc2/
*Play free kids games, watch videos, and explore activities, quirky quizzes and fun facts. Watch Artzooka, Big Block Sing Song and more.
https://lyricstraining.com/
*LyricsTraining is the new way to learn English and other languages through music and the lyrics of your favourite songs
https://www.crazygames.com/
*Play free online games at CrazyGames, including driving games, monster truck games, and many more!
Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Discounts and Freebies for Homeschool Educators
From school supplies to clothing and accessories, check out this list of amazing teacher discounts! Call the store ahead of time to see if you can receive a homeschool teacher discount. Bringing along proof of homeschooling va a letter from your county or umbrella and a business card sized ID card for your homeschool may speed up your discount approval.
https://www.greatwolf.com/homeschool
Homeschool families receive great savings at Great Wolf Lodge Indoor Waterpark Resort. Stay Sunday – Thursday through December 14, 2017 and get up to 15% off the best available rate. Book now and save big!
Companies offering discounts to homeschoolers:
At Dollar Tree, teachers may get 10% off their purchase with a valid school ID. This discount is only available at participating stores - so make sure to ask. Plus, Dollar Tree online has a Teacher Ideas section to help you set up your classroom on the budget you have.
Big Lots
In order to say thanks to America's teachers, Big Lots designates a special day each year to recognize our hard work. Big Lots Teacher Appreciation Day brings discounts to all teachers.
Simply Stamps
At SimplyStamps.com, teachers registered as AAE members can save 20% by using the AAETEACH coupon code.
Charlotte Russe
When shopping at Charlotte Russe, teachers may get 10% off their purchase after showing a valid teacher ID. Ask sales associate to see if their store participates.
Gifts.com – 15% off with code TEACHER15
Tilco Educational Shower Curtains – Use code HSM15 for 15% off your order
Paradigm Accelerated Curriculum – Paradigm Accelerated Curriculum offers a 40% DISCOUNT with a minimum purchase of $1,000 for group purchases where there is one purchaser and one shipping address. Call 325-649-0976 for discount code. Other available discounts include 40% for single parents and 20% for military, law enforcement, first responders, ministry, farmers and ranchers.
Homeschool Buyers Co-op – Negotiates deals with vendors based on quantity purchases
CollegePrepGenius – Use code EZCLASS – $10.00 off Class Registration, EZSHIP for free shipping on orders $50.00 or more, and
EZOFF to download “15 Secrets to Free College” eBook for a penny ($9.95 value)
StartWrite – use code SW513 for $5.00 off
Adobe software at up to 75% off for students, teachers, and schools
Microsoft software at up to 75% off for students, teachers, and schools
ClickN READ Phonics Online Reading program – The world’s most advanced phonics software. 100 fun interactive cartoon lessons. Beginning, struggling and learning disabled readers. 60 days risk free. You can try a free lesson here. (Use Promotion Code “THSM” when purchasing to receive a 5% discount!)
Tutor.com – Use promo code “homeschoolmom” to get 50 free minutes of online tutoring. You will also receive 10% off any purchases made within 3 months of signing up.
GreatScopes.com – Homeschoolers are invited to use the customer code HS10 at checkout, and the discount will immediately be taken off your microscope order of $149 or more.
MicroscopeCentral.com – Coupon Code HSGIFT will receive a free slide set gift
Apple Computers – The full line of educational products are available to homeschoolers who meet their state’s requirements for legally homeschooling.
Office Depot Rewards – not specific to teachers, but offers 10% back in rewards on certain purchases
Barnes and Noble bookstore – Educator’s Discount Card available in stores only
Books-A-Million – 20% for classroom purchases when you fill out a teacher discount card
JoAnn Crafts – 15% in-store discount; apply in store and get a 20% discount on your entire purchase on Teacher Appreciation Day
The Container Store – 15% off for educators on supplies to organize the classroom
Henne’s Drafting & Art Supply – up to 25% discount extended to educators including homeschoolers
Microscope.com offers a free shipping discount on student-level compound and stereo microscopes. Use coupon code “HSFreeShipping” and mention this website for FREE shipping.
FedEx Office
Thanks to the FedEx Office Academic Edge program you'll receive 15-percent off nearly all products, including brochures, posters and photos. This discount is available both online and in-store.
Staples
Register for the Staples Teacher Rewards Program to garner five-percent back in rewards points and free shipping from Staples.com. The program covers a slew of products, from ink and paper to teaching and art supplies.
Hobby Lobby
Hobby Lobby extends their 10-percent discount to a number of community organizations, including schools. The one catch is you have to pay with an organizational check or credit card.
Party City
The more you spend at Party City, the bigger the discount gets. Save between 10 and 20 percent when you bring a signed letter on official letterhead from an officer of the school. You must also complete the purchase with a check or credit card in the school’s name.
Blick Art Materials
Teachers should sign up for the Dick Blick Preferred Card. It’s completely free and gets you 10% off purchases at Blick and Utrecht stores. Blick also offers organizational discounts for bulk orders.
Discount School Supply
Discount School Supply doesn't run a rewards program, but certain purchases are eligible for a teacher discount if you call ahead or ask before finishing your order. The site also honors tax exemptions from qualifying organizations.
A.C. Moore
A.C. Moore has modified their discount program. Instead of a flat teacher discount, they offer a rewards program where you can earn points with every purchase.
Inkjet Willy
Inkjet Willy is a popular comparison site that helps you track down the lowest prices on ink and toner, and educators can save an extra 10 percent on orders of compatible or remanufactured cartridges from select resellers using the coupon code WILLY10.
Izzit.org
Izzit.org is happy to offer teachers one free educational video per year, no strings attached. The company specializes in videos for older students, but teachers and homeschoolers of grades K-12 can apply.
Speed Stacks
What are Speed Stacks, you ask? Essentially it’s a game where kids stack 12 cups in various formations as quickly as they can to improve hand-eye coordination and ambidexterity. If it’s something you’d like to try at your school, teachers can request a complimentary set. However, there’s a limit of one per organization.
Pets in the Classroom
This unique program offers K-8 teachers grants to help cover the cost of a pet for the classroom. The maximum grant amount is $125, but there are also a number of different grant types to help pay for pet supplies.
Naked Binder
Don’t let the name deter you; Naked Binder manufacturers 100% recyclable binders, pocket folders, tab dividers and labels. In addition to providing non-toxic and environmentally friendly school supplies, they also offer a discount to teachers. To receive the discount code, educators should call at 1-877-446-2533 and provide the name of their school.
Make Great Light
Make Great Light sells light filters that totally transform lighting in the classroom. They eliminate the harsh glare and allows kids to focus. Their classroom light filters also create full spectrum light, which has been shown to help increase reading and math test scores and help regulate hormones. Make Great Light offers a standard 10% discount to teachers and will bump it up to 15% if you write a review on social media.
Half Price Books
Sign up for a Half Price Books' Educator's Discount Card and be rewarded with discounts of 10-percent year-round. This discount is truly all-inclusive, available to teachers, homeschoolers, librarians and even teachers who have been laid-off in the last year.
PBS
Educators who sign up for the PBS LearningMedia program will receive free access to tens of thousands of videos, games, lesson plans and other educational materials for the classroom.
Schuler Books
Michigan educators can enjoy 20-percent off books from the young adult, children's and education sections. Contact your local store to verify eligibility.
Book Warehouse
The perks of flashing that school ID aren't lost at Book Warehouse. Show your valid, school-issued card to join the Educator's Book Club and get a 15-percent discount on most in-store purchases.
MagMall
Teachers will receive special pricing on magazine subscriptions ordered through MagMall. Before placing your order, call or email their customer service with the name of your school and your position to see what kind of discounts are available.
The New York Times
Keep your students up-to-date on current events with The New York Times’ special rate for educators. The first four weeks will cost you just $0.99, and every week after will be discounted by 50 percent.
The Wall Street Journal
The special educator's rate from The Wall Street Journal is mostly targeted to college professors and those with older students. Still, it's hard to beat the savings of the discounted subscriptions.
National Geographic
Teachers can receive numerous benefits from the famous publication including half-price copies of past issues and a $12/year subscription rate.
Bunion Bootie
Those in need of relief for aching feet may want to give the Bunion Bootie discount a try. Teachers and administrators save 10% on their order total.
Eddie Bauer
Provide verification of your status as a teacher and Eddie Bauer stores will give you 10% off your purchase.
Aerosoles
Bring your teacher ID shopping at Aerosoles to save 15% on footwear priced $39.99 or higher. If you can’t visit a store location, you can also receive the discount by placing your order over the phone.
New York and Co.
New York and Co. goes above and beyond to offer their Big Apple for the Teacher program. Sign-up online to get 15-percent off in-store purchases and special offers emailed to you throughout the year.
The Limited: 15% off with pay stub or teacher ID card.
J. Crew
The next time you’re shopping at J. Crew, whip out that school ID to save 15% on your purchase. This discount is also available at the Factory Stores.
CJ Banks/Christopher and Banks
Get the looks you love for less with 10-percent off purchases from both retailers. This offer is only valid in-store, and excludes discounts on other special sale events. Just show the cashier your school ID at checkout.
Madewell
Teachers who show a valid ID at checkout can get a 15% discount off their purchase. The offer is not available for online orders.
Talbots
Update your wardrobe before the next school year starts with the 15% off discount from Talbots. It can be used for any full-price, in-store purchases with a valid ID.
Easy Spirit
Teachers receive 15% off any in-store, full-priced purchases with a valid school ID.
Banana Republic
Bring your valid teacher ID to a Banana Republic store and receive 15% off full-price purchases.
Bose
The Bose offer is primo, particularly for those in need of sonic stimulation. Save up to 15% on most music systems and accessories. Call their Sales Solution Team at 1-800-353-4207 and ask for the “Educator's Program” for pricing and to place an order.
Dell
If your school is affiliated with Dell you can get special pricing on your purchase of a computer or other products. Call Customer Service before paying to apply the discount.
Cell Phone Companies (Verizon, AT&T, Sprint)
This discount varies by provider, but teachers can save loads on a personal cell phone bill, sometimes up to 20 percent a month. Visit your provider's business or discount portal and input your .edu email address to check if your institution is registered.
Adobe
Shop direct from the Adobe Education Store and receive discounts on select software, including bundles and suites. Adobe requires proof of employment as an educator before applying the discount.
Western Digital (WD) Store
Offering digital storage, sharing and protection products, WD store helps you stay organized and protected in the modern age of teaching. They also provide a 20-percent discount to teachers and education staff through the WD Education Store. Create a free account using your school or university address to get started.
Lenovo
Through Lenovo’s Academic Purchase Program, teachers may receive a discount on their purchase. Select your state and school for a list of deals on tablets, computers and laptops.
Sony
Register for the Sony Education Store and save up to 10 percent on select products. If you’re shopping on behalf of your school, head to the Sony Business Store for more appropriate deals.
PureTalk USA
The discount cell phone plan provider offers teachers 20% off their first month of service with the promo code TEACH20.
Academic Superstore
Academic Superstore is an online software outlet that sells a slew of products for up to 85-percent off. Discounts are available year-round with proof of employment as a teacher.
JourneyEd
This is yet another site where educators can find huge savings on popular software. After placing your order, confirm your status as a teacher to apply the discount.
West Elm
Take 10% off your online order or in-store purchase from West Elm, and enjoy modern, sophisticated furniture and home decor for less. Sign up for the “study circle” here, using your .edu address.
Farmers Insurance
Farmers extends additional discounts to teachers, but these special rates vary based on state and prior driving record. For more details, contact a local agent. Farmers also offers free resources for the classroom, including lesson plans and educational documentaries.
Liberty Mutual
Liberty Mutual extends extra benefits such as a $0 deductible for damage that occurs on school property or during school-related events. Because it’s insurance, rates are dependent on your state and driving record.
Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel
Teachers are eligible for a variety of discounted rates at the Swan and Dolphin hotels, located securely in the center of Walt Disney World in Orlando. Currently, teachers and all support staff can secure special hotel rates starting at $139 per night (valid through December 23, 2014). Availability also varies based on season and demand. Mention you're an educator when booking.
Marriott Hotels
Marriott grants teachers a discount at a slew of hotels across the nation. Whether you book online or in-person, show your school ID at check-in to receive the special rate. Rules on this discount are a bit vague -- they mention government employees, which would imply only public school employees -- but most hotel employees don't bite. Feel free to ask.
SeaWorld
Register for the Teacher Study Pass program, an exclusive for K-12 teachers in Florida, Texas and Southern California, and get unlimited free admission for the year. Bring a copy of your teaching certificate, a current pay stub and photo ID to the SeaWorld front gate to obtain a new pass or renew an old one.
National Park Service
Show a valid school ID at a slew of National Park Service visitor centers across the nation and receive 15-percent off many purchases. The discount doesn't apply to park entry fees, camping fees or Smokey the Bear petting zoo fees.
Kennedy Space Center
Florida treats its K-12 teachers well and occasionally lets folks from Georgia in on the fun. Registered educators from both states are eligible for a free, full-fledged Educator Study Pass. Show a valid teaching certificate and recent pay stub to any ticket agent for an annual pass.
Legoland Florida
Florida teachers K-12 can enjoy an entire year of free admission with the Florida Teacher Pass to both Legoland and Legoland Water Park. Bring your most recent paystub, Florida photo ID and teaching certificate to receive your pass.
Legoland California
The California Legoland isn’t quite as generous as its counterpart in Florida, but teachers can still get free admission on select Saturdays and Sundays throughout the year. Additionally, teachers are eligible for free admission during Teacher Appreciation Week from May 5 to May 11, and again on May 31. Call in advance for more details about eligible weekends.
Elvis Presley's Graceland
K-12 teachers receive free admission to tour the former Memphis, Tenn. estate of The King with a valid school ID or recent pay stub or dated letter on school letterhead stating you’re a teacher at your school.
https://www.greatwolf.com/homeschool
Homeschool families receive great savings at Great Wolf Lodge Indoor Waterpark Resort. Stay Sunday – Thursday through December 14, 2017 and get up to 15% off the best available rate. Book now and save big!
Companies offering discounts to homeschoolers:
Lakeshore Learning
Teachers can receive 15% off on many in-store items using the Lakeshore Learning Teachers Club. In addition, teachers can enjoy special monthly offers.
Dollar TreeAt Dollar Tree, teachers may get 10% off their purchase with a valid school ID. This discount is only available at participating stores - so make sure to ask. Plus, Dollar Tree online has a Teacher Ideas section to help you set up your classroom on the budget you have.
Big Lots
In order to say thanks to America's teachers, Big Lots designates a special day each year to recognize our hard work. Big Lots Teacher Appreciation Day brings discounts to all teachers.
Simply Stamps
At SimplyStamps.com, teachers registered as AAE members can save 20% by using the AAETEACH coupon code.
Charlotte Russe
When shopping at Charlotte Russe, teachers may get 10% off their purchase after showing a valid teacher ID. Ask sales associate to see if their store participates.
Gifts.com – 15% off with code TEACHER15
Tilco Educational Shower Curtains – Use code HSM15 for 15% off your order
Paradigm Accelerated Curriculum – Paradigm Accelerated Curriculum offers a 40% DISCOUNT with a minimum purchase of $1,000 for group purchases where there is one purchaser and one shipping address. Call 325-649-0976 for discount code. Other available discounts include 40% for single parents and 20% for military, law enforcement, first responders, ministry, farmers and ranchers.
Homeschool Buyers Co-op – Negotiates deals with vendors based on quantity purchases
CollegePrepGenius – Use code EZCLASS – $10.00 off Class Registration, EZSHIP for free shipping on orders $50.00 or more, and
EZOFF to download “15 Secrets to Free College” eBook for a penny ($9.95 value)
StartWrite – use code SW513 for $5.00 off
Adobe software at up to 75% off for students, teachers, and schools
Microsoft software at up to 75% off for students, teachers, and schools
ClickN READ Phonics Online Reading program – The world’s most advanced phonics software. 100 fun interactive cartoon lessons. Beginning, struggling and learning disabled readers. 60 days risk free. You can try a free lesson here. (Use Promotion Code “THSM” when purchasing to receive a 5% discount!)
Tutor.com – Use promo code “homeschoolmom” to get 50 free minutes of online tutoring. You will also receive 10% off any purchases made within 3 months of signing up.
GreatScopes.com – Homeschoolers are invited to use the customer code HS10 at checkout, and the discount will immediately be taken off your microscope order of $149 or more.
MicroscopeCentral.com – Coupon Code HSGIFT will receive a free slide set gift
Apple Computers – The full line of educational products are available to homeschoolers who meet their state’s requirements for legally homeschooling.
Office Depot Rewards – not specific to teachers, but offers 10% back in rewards on certain purchases
Barnes and Noble bookstore – Educator’s Discount Card available in stores only
Books-A-Million – 20% for classroom purchases when you fill out a teacher discount card
JoAnn Crafts – 15% in-store discount; apply in store and get a 20% discount on your entire purchase on Teacher Appreciation Day
The Container Store – 15% off for educators on supplies to organize the classroom
Henne’s Drafting & Art Supply – up to 25% discount extended to educators including homeschoolers
Microscope.com offers a free shipping discount on student-level compound and stereo microscopes. Use coupon code “HSFreeShipping” and mention this website for FREE shipping.
FedEx Office
Thanks to the FedEx Office Academic Edge program you'll receive 15-percent off nearly all products, including brochures, posters and photos. This discount is available both online and in-store.
Staples
Register for the Staples Teacher Rewards Program to garner five-percent back in rewards points and free shipping from Staples.com. The program covers a slew of products, from ink and paper to teaching and art supplies.
Hobby Lobby
Hobby Lobby extends their 10-percent discount to a number of community organizations, including schools. The one catch is you have to pay with an organizational check or credit card.
Party City
The more you spend at Party City, the bigger the discount gets. Save between 10 and 20 percent when you bring a signed letter on official letterhead from an officer of the school. You must also complete the purchase with a check or credit card in the school’s name.
Blick Art Materials
Teachers should sign up for the Dick Blick Preferred Card. It’s completely free and gets you 10% off purchases at Blick and Utrecht stores. Blick also offers organizational discounts for bulk orders.
Discount School Supply
Discount School Supply doesn't run a rewards program, but certain purchases are eligible for a teacher discount if you call ahead or ask before finishing your order. The site also honors tax exemptions from qualifying organizations.
A.C. Moore
A.C. Moore has modified their discount program. Instead of a flat teacher discount, they offer a rewards program where you can earn points with every purchase.
Inkjet Willy
Inkjet Willy is a popular comparison site that helps you track down the lowest prices on ink and toner, and educators can save an extra 10 percent on orders of compatible or remanufactured cartridges from select resellers using the coupon code WILLY10.
Izzit.org
Izzit.org is happy to offer teachers one free educational video per year, no strings attached. The company specializes in videos for older students, but teachers and homeschoolers of grades K-12 can apply.
Speed Stacks
What are Speed Stacks, you ask? Essentially it’s a game where kids stack 12 cups in various formations as quickly as they can to improve hand-eye coordination and ambidexterity. If it’s something you’d like to try at your school, teachers can request a complimentary set. However, there’s a limit of one per organization.
Pets in the Classroom
This unique program offers K-8 teachers grants to help cover the cost of a pet for the classroom. The maximum grant amount is $125, but there are also a number of different grant types to help pay for pet supplies.
Naked Binder
Don’t let the name deter you; Naked Binder manufacturers 100% recyclable binders, pocket folders, tab dividers and labels. In addition to providing non-toxic and environmentally friendly school supplies, they also offer a discount to teachers. To receive the discount code, educators should call at 1-877-446-2533 and provide the name of their school.
Make Great Light
Make Great Light sells light filters that totally transform lighting in the classroom. They eliminate the harsh glare and allows kids to focus. Their classroom light filters also create full spectrum light, which has been shown to help increase reading and math test scores and help regulate hormones. Make Great Light offers a standard 10% discount to teachers and will bump it up to 15% if you write a review on social media.
Half Price Books
Sign up for a Half Price Books' Educator's Discount Card and be rewarded with discounts of 10-percent year-round. This discount is truly all-inclusive, available to teachers, homeschoolers, librarians and even teachers who have been laid-off in the last year.
PBS
Educators who sign up for the PBS LearningMedia program will receive free access to tens of thousands of videos, games, lesson plans and other educational materials for the classroom.
Schuler Books
Michigan educators can enjoy 20-percent off books from the young adult, children's and education sections. Contact your local store to verify eligibility.
Book Warehouse
The perks of flashing that school ID aren't lost at Book Warehouse. Show your valid, school-issued card to join the Educator's Book Club and get a 15-percent discount on most in-store purchases.
MagMall
Teachers will receive special pricing on magazine subscriptions ordered through MagMall. Before placing your order, call or email their customer service with the name of your school and your position to see what kind of discounts are available.
The New York Times
Keep your students up-to-date on current events with The New York Times’ special rate for educators. The first four weeks will cost you just $0.99, and every week after will be discounted by 50 percent.
The Wall Street Journal
The special educator's rate from The Wall Street Journal is mostly targeted to college professors and those with older students. Still, it's hard to beat the savings of the discounted subscriptions.
National Geographic
Teachers can receive numerous benefits from the famous publication including half-price copies of past issues and a $12/year subscription rate.
Bunion Bootie
Those in need of relief for aching feet may want to give the Bunion Bootie discount a try. Teachers and administrators save 10% on their order total.
Eddie Bauer
Provide verification of your status as a teacher and Eddie Bauer stores will give you 10% off your purchase.
Aerosoles
Bring your teacher ID shopping at Aerosoles to save 15% on footwear priced $39.99 or higher. If you can’t visit a store location, you can also receive the discount by placing your order over the phone.
New York and Co.
New York and Co. goes above and beyond to offer their Big Apple for the Teacher program. Sign-up online to get 15-percent off in-store purchases and special offers emailed to you throughout the year.
The Limited: 15% off with pay stub or teacher ID card.
J. Crew
The next time you’re shopping at J. Crew, whip out that school ID to save 15% on your purchase. This discount is also available at the Factory Stores.
CJ Banks/Christopher and Banks
Get the looks you love for less with 10-percent off purchases from both retailers. This offer is only valid in-store, and excludes discounts on other special sale events. Just show the cashier your school ID at checkout.
Madewell
Teachers who show a valid ID at checkout can get a 15% discount off their purchase. The offer is not available for online orders.
Talbots
Update your wardrobe before the next school year starts with the 15% off discount from Talbots. It can be used for any full-price, in-store purchases with a valid ID.
Easy Spirit
Teachers receive 15% off any in-store, full-priced purchases with a valid school ID.
Banana Republic
Bring your valid teacher ID to a Banana Republic store and receive 15% off full-price purchases.
Bose
The Bose offer is primo, particularly for those in need of sonic stimulation. Save up to 15% on most music systems and accessories. Call their Sales Solution Team at 1-800-353-4207 and ask for the “Educator's Program” for pricing and to place an order.
Dell
If your school is affiliated with Dell you can get special pricing on your purchase of a computer or other products. Call Customer Service before paying to apply the discount.
Cell Phone Companies (Verizon, AT&T, Sprint)
This discount varies by provider, but teachers can save loads on a personal cell phone bill, sometimes up to 20 percent a month. Visit your provider's business or discount portal and input your .edu email address to check if your institution is registered.
Adobe
Shop direct from the Adobe Education Store and receive discounts on select software, including bundles and suites. Adobe requires proof of employment as an educator before applying the discount.
Western Digital (WD) Store
Offering digital storage, sharing and protection products, WD store helps you stay organized and protected in the modern age of teaching. They also provide a 20-percent discount to teachers and education staff through the WD Education Store. Create a free account using your school or university address to get started.
Lenovo
Through Lenovo’s Academic Purchase Program, teachers may receive a discount on their purchase. Select your state and school for a list of deals on tablets, computers and laptops.
Sony
Register for the Sony Education Store and save up to 10 percent on select products. If you’re shopping on behalf of your school, head to the Sony Business Store for more appropriate deals.
PureTalk USA
The discount cell phone plan provider offers teachers 20% off their first month of service with the promo code TEACH20.
Academic Superstore
Academic Superstore is an online software outlet that sells a slew of products for up to 85-percent off. Discounts are available year-round with proof of employment as a teacher.
JourneyEd
This is yet another site where educators can find huge savings on popular software. After placing your order, confirm your status as a teacher to apply the discount.
West Elm
Take 10% off your online order or in-store purchase from West Elm, and enjoy modern, sophisticated furniture and home decor for less. Sign up for the “study circle” here, using your .edu address.
Farmers Insurance
Farmers extends additional discounts to teachers, but these special rates vary based on state and prior driving record. For more details, contact a local agent. Farmers also offers free resources for the classroom, including lesson plans and educational documentaries.
Liberty Mutual
Liberty Mutual extends extra benefits such as a $0 deductible for damage that occurs on school property or during school-related events. Because it’s insurance, rates are dependent on your state and driving record.
Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel
Teachers are eligible for a variety of discounted rates at the Swan and Dolphin hotels, located securely in the center of Walt Disney World in Orlando. Currently, teachers and all support staff can secure special hotel rates starting at $139 per night (valid through December 23, 2014). Availability also varies based on season and demand. Mention you're an educator when booking.
Marriott Hotels
Marriott grants teachers a discount at a slew of hotels across the nation. Whether you book online or in-person, show your school ID at check-in to receive the special rate. Rules on this discount are a bit vague -- they mention government employees, which would imply only public school employees -- but most hotel employees don't bite. Feel free to ask.
SeaWorld
Register for the Teacher Study Pass program, an exclusive for K-12 teachers in Florida, Texas and Southern California, and get unlimited free admission for the year. Bring a copy of your teaching certificate, a current pay stub and photo ID to the SeaWorld front gate to obtain a new pass or renew an old one.
National Park Service
Show a valid school ID at a slew of National Park Service visitor centers across the nation and receive 15-percent off many purchases. The discount doesn't apply to park entry fees, camping fees or Smokey the Bear petting zoo fees.
Kennedy Space Center
Florida treats its K-12 teachers well and occasionally lets folks from Georgia in on the fun. Registered educators from both states are eligible for a free, full-fledged Educator Study Pass. Show a valid teaching certificate and recent pay stub to any ticket agent for an annual pass.
Legoland Florida
Florida teachers K-12 can enjoy an entire year of free admission with the Florida Teacher Pass to both Legoland and Legoland Water Park. Bring your most recent paystub, Florida photo ID and teaching certificate to receive your pass.
Legoland California
The California Legoland isn’t quite as generous as its counterpart in Florida, but teachers can still get free admission on select Saturdays and Sundays throughout the year. Additionally, teachers are eligible for free admission during Teacher Appreciation Week from May 5 to May 11, and again on May 31. Call in advance for more details about eligible weekends.
Elvis Presley's Graceland
K-12 teachers receive free admission to tour the former Memphis, Tenn. estate of The King with a valid school ID or recent pay stub or dated letter on school letterhead stating you’re a teacher at your school.
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