FEAST MANNA December 2016

Family Educators Alliance of South Texas
MANNA
Volume 29/ Issue 12/ December
Kids Exploring
Engineering
Sports
Pushing to the
Next Level
Growth
Through
Competition:
Art, Music, Spelling, Writing,
Geography
Pondering
Christmas,
The Babe,
The Star…
It’s all about
Jesus
Capital Day
FIELD TRIPS
with a Purpose
1

CONTENTS
3 Christmas Time Is
Upon Us
4 National Geographic
Bee at FEAST
National Spelling Bee at
FEAST
5 Aerospace Engineering
for kids
Amazon Smile
6 Essential Oil
Fundraiser
Civics
7 Dinosaurs and the Bible
Generation Joshua
8 Convention - Save the
Date!
Capitol Days
Chick-fil-a
9 Protect Your Parental
Rights
10 Co-op
11 Student Council
Student Western Art Contest
Classifieds
November Cover
photo courtesy of
williams-sonoma.com
12 FEAST Standardized
Testing
Barnes & Noble
Achievement Testing
at FEAST
13 Bookstore Features
14 The Star of Wonder
15 FEAST Christmas Recital
16 What’s Up
17 Cartooning Camps
How Can We Help?
18 Valero Texas Open
19 Texas History
Essay Contest
20 At Home with Music
Hill Country Science Mill
21 Sports
26 Calendar
Christmas time is upon us.
Christmas time is upon us. What a lovely time to reflect on the babe in the manger who was born in the
lowliest of places. He did not make a grand entrance as one would expect from the King of Kings. Instead He
started His life on earth with His entrance in a stable, all because there was no room for Him in the inn. Do you
have room for Him this Christmas Season? As you make preparations for all the festivities, make sure that you
include that babe in the manger, who came to the world to die for us that we might live for Him.
As we look back at this year, we see a lot of crazed activity in the world. Many divisive events over the last
few months that have pitted people against each other, and caused strife in this election year. I am sure you
received many requests for donations and/or support for so many of these causes. I would encourage you to
focus on the Lord and your family and not to be discouraged with so much of the turmoil that you are not able
to change. I challenge you to ponder these decisions as a good steward of what God has given you and consider
FEAST in your year-end giving, the same FEAST that has been there for you through the years, and Lord willing
will be there for you and your family in the future.
I would like to remind you that 100% of the profits at FEAST are put right back into the home school community.
Supporting events and services for home schoolers, by home schoolers, and about home schoolers. These are a
few of the offerings at FEAST:
• Bookstore providing educational and enrichment
supplies including computer software
• Online Bookstore
• Orientation for new home schoolers
• Legal information regarding home schooling in
Texas
• Educational Scholarships
• Standardized Testing, ASVAB Testing and PSAT
Testing
• Annual Home School Convention
• Co-op featuring full computer and science labs
and Pre-K -12th grade classes offered
• Apprentice opportunities and information
• Competitive youth sports program and instructional
camps
• Used Books Swap & Used Book Room
• Monthly MANNA Newsletter
• Local support groups and tutor list
• Patriot Pass Benefits
• Workshops and Training Seminars
• Youth Leadership Training
• Summer Reading Program
• Rentals: Courts, Field, Workshops, Banquet Hall,
etc.
• Science Fair, Geography, Bible and Spelling Bees,
and Civics Class
• Contests, Fine Arts Night, And Children’s Fair
Program
• College & Career Events, Information and College
Fair
• Consulting and Mentoring
Your suggestions and assistance in any area would be welcome. We are thankful for the families who continually
support this organization financially and through volunteer work to help us improve our facility and make
the above events possible. To see how FEAST got started, click here! Please be reminded that your donations are
100% tax deductible. Most importantly, please pray for us as we continue to promote and support the benefits
of parent directed education.
Merry Christmas on behalf of the FEAST Board of Directors and Staff!
Linda S. Whiten
FEAST Executive Director
“Unto thee, O God, do we give thanks…” Psalm 75:1
Family Educators Alliance of South Texas 2 Family Educators Alliance of South Texas 3

National
Geographic
Bee
at FEAST
January 6, 2017, from 10am – 12pm
Grades 4 – 8, Registration Deadline is
January 4, 2017
Free for Patriot Pass Holders, $10 for
non-Patriot Pass Holders
This is a fun activity that really causes your child
to stretch toward a goal. All students, ages 7
– 15 (student should not have reached his/
her 15th birthday on or before August 31, 2016) are
invited to participate. All participants will receive a
certificate congratulating them on their hard work
in preparing for the spelling bee. Our FEAST Spelling
Bee is divided into two divisions.
Division 1 (Just for fun) is for participants 7
through 9 years of age. The first place winner of this
division will not move on to the regional spelling
bee.
Division 2 is for participants 7 through 15 years of
Registration Deadline age. The first place winner of this division will move
is January 4
on to the regional spelling bee sponsored by the
San Antonio Express-News.
Here is how it works:
1. Register online with FEAST
2. Start studying the word list for your child’s age group.
3. Be at FEAST 15 min. early to participate in the FEAST Spelling Bee!
Tuesday, January 10, 1pm at FEAST
Do your students enjoy Geography? Do they like learning
about new people and places throughout the world? We have
a contest for them: The National Geographic Bee!
This annual competition is designed to inspire and reward
students' curiosity about the world. Students in grades 4-8 all
across the United States will be competing for college scholarships
and the chance to be the National Geographic Bee
Champion!
Do your students need help studying for the Nat Geo Bee?
You're in luck! We've teamed up with our friends at Kahoot!
to develop six engaging quizzes to test U.S. and world geography.
Never used a Kahoot! before? Visit the tutorial page to
learn more.
The winner of FEAST’s contest will be eligible to participate
in the State level Geographic Bee to be held March 31, 2017.
Register Here, or for more information click here.
The FEAST Spelling Bee is FREE for Patriot Pass holders and $10 for all other participants.
Please contact Estela Frias with any questions at 210-240-8912
or email one_andonly2@yahoo.com. Click here to register!
“But I have trusted in Thy mercy; my heart shall rejoice in Thy salvation.”
Psalms 13:5
AEROSPACE
ENGINEERING
FOR KIDS
8 Week Class for Spring 2017
Starts Wednesday, January 11, 10 –11:15am at FEAST
$205 Patriot Pass holders, $225 non patriot pass NOTE: Cost includes a $30 supply fee
Registration closes December 23, 2016
There is a class minimum, so sign up early to ensure the classes make!
Apprentice (Ages 8 - 14)
Does your child ever question how things fly? During
Aerospace Apprentice Engineering classes, students use
the Engineering Design Process to design, create, test, and
refine a variety of flying machines. They will construct a
shock-absorbing system designed to protect marshmallow
astronauts in a lunar vehicle, as well as create their
own air-powered rockets. Students will also assemble a
hot air balloon model that actually takes flight.
Students will be able to:
* Explore concepts such as aerodynamics, thrust, lift, drag
and gravity through unique hands-on activities
* Solve real-world engineering problems using the Engineering
Design Process
* Create an original design using simple everyday machines
We have
found the
missing link!
Juniors (Ages 5-7)
Engineering for Kids presents young engineers with an
opportunity to explore the fundamental concepts of
aerospace engineering, including aircraft and spacecraft
design. The Junior Aerospace Engineering classes introduce
our youngest engineers to fundamental concepts
of aircraft design. Through open and focused exploration,
students explore and construct airplanes, rockets, hot air
balloons and more.
Students will be able to:
* Explain the term thrust as it relates to aerospace engineering
* Create a plane utilizing potential and kinetic energy
* Understand the design of a rocket, including the nose
cone, fins and fuselage
* Work in collaborative groups to create original designs REGISTER HERE!
Not sure how to find the AmazonSmile link that makes all your shopping pay off in a big way for
FEAST? Search no longer, we have found the missing link.
No need to search for FEAST among almost a million other organizations. Use this link in all your
AmazonSmile marketing promotions. It’s the easiest way for you to support FEAST!
Family Educators Alliance of South Texas 4 5

Essential Oil Workshop
& Fundraiser
Thursday, December 8, 2016 at 1pm at FEAST
Come learn how essential oils can bring Wellness to your life! They have been around since
the very beginning of creation! They are mentioned throughout the Bible and have amazing
qualities! This interactive event will include the gifts of the Magi! Come learn what Frankincense
& Myrrh Essential Oils can do for your HEALTH in your everyday life! Oils of the Bible are
more precious than gold....a gift that is fit for a KING!
All proceeds go to help FEAST pay for the A/C change-out. All orders placed for Young Living
Essential Oils in December or January will qualify for the fundraiser. To obtain an order form,
please contact Waleska Lira in the office at 210-342-4674 ext.19 or email adminassist@homeschoolfeast.com.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!
“For the
wages
of sin is
death; but
the gift
of God is
eternal life
through
Jesus
Christ our
Lord.”
Romans
6:23
Free Creation
Science Workshops
Dinosaurs and the Bible
January 23, 6:30pm at FEAST
FEAST Science Workshops will take the next two
months off for the holidays, but coming this
new year we have a full complement of creation
science programs selected by our FEAST science workshop
participants.
The 2017 schedule of programs is shown below:
• January - Dinosaurs and the Bible
• February - The Discovery of Genesis in Chinese
• March - Distant Starlight, Big Bang and the Bible
• April - Where did Cain get his Wife and other Supposed
Biblical Contradictions
All programs will occur on the fourth Monday of each month at 6:30pm at FEAST, with a hands on, young children’s
program offered at the same time. Click here to register!
Civics Classes will Resume on January 20, 2017
Please join us at the free January Civics Class at
FEAST. We have tentatively scheduled our new
Sheriff-Elect Javier Salazar and our District Attorney
Nicolas La Hood as our guest speakers. Watch
the FEAST Civics webpage for speaker updates.
Click Here to Register. Contact Gale Sayers at
hopegale50@gmail.com with questions.
About Our Program
Our FREE Civics class meets each month at FEAST.
The FEAST Civics Coordinator, Gale Sayers, spends
many months handling arrangements with local
and state politicians and government and civic
leaders in preparation for our free Civics Classes.
Please honor our guests by coming in business casual
attire. No shorts. We ask that skirts or dresses
be worn to knee length with no visible undergarments.
No hats on male attendees.
Whole families are invited! There are no age limits
and parents/grandparents do attend with the
children. Students must have at least one parent/
adult in attendance unless a special arrangement
has been made. Attendance is open to all. Your
faithful participation will ensure the success of
these events,so please make it a priority on your
family’s calendar to be physically present. No writing
is required, but personal notes are strongly encouraged.
No tests are given. Come out and enjoy
a very interactive time with our guests.
“If my people, which are called by my name,
shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek
my face, and turn from their wicked ways;
then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive
their sin, and will heal their land.”
11 Chronicles 7:14
Generation Joshua is
Returning to FEAST
May 11 – 12, 2017 - 9am – 6pm
Ages 11 – 19
Early Registration is:
$125 for Patriot Pass Holders ($140 after Jan. 31) $135 non-Patriot Pass Holders ($150 after Jan. 31)
HELP is needed!!!
The mob has murdered an FBI informant, and the local brass has pulled out all the stops to find the guilty party. Accordingly,
they have summoned a Federal Grand Jury to investigate the evidence and issue an indictment for murder.
The problem is that there are three possible suspects. Each had opportunity, means, and possibly a motive, so whom
do they take to trial? That is your job. The Generation Joshua iObject teen track places you, the student, in the seat
of one of the most powerful citizen judicial roles in the country, a federal Grand Jury. Don’t miss being a part of this
exciting Generation Joshua (GenJ) Grand Jury simulation.
In order to book the event with GenJ, FEAST must have a minimum of 25 committed students registered by January 31.
NOTE: If you cannot make full payment at the time of registration, but are committed to attend, please contact
june@homeschoolfeast.com to arrange a payment plan.
Space is limited so Register Today!
Family Educators Alliance of South Texas 6 7

Save the Date: June 8—10, 2017
“In the journey of life,
it’s okay to stop and ask for directions.”
Each month FEAST will highlight one of our featured speakers for the 2017 FEAST Home School Convention.
Tim Lambert is a home school dad as well as the President of our state organization The Texas
Home School Coalition. In the article below you can find out why it is important to protect your parental
rights. Enjoy your sneak peek below, and we will see you at the June, 2017 FEAST Convention!
Steve Demme
Scott Lane
Valerie Felder
Doug & Jennifer Flowers
Tim & Lyndsay Lambert
Vicki Bentley
“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6
www.homeschoolfeast.com
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION
Support FEAST at Chick-fil-a
for Spirit Night!
January 31, 2017
20831 N US 281, San Antonio, TX 78258
Recently, a couple of our team members expressed negative
concerns about the political newsletter I publish each
Saturday. THSC publishes regular newsletters that can be
subscribed to on the THSC website so readers can stay informed
with a simple email. During the week I post a number of links to
news articles that I find interesting on my personal Twitter and
Facebook accounts. Those are collected by a staff member and
rolled into one newsletter that goes out on the weekends.
The complaints essentially stemmed from questioning why the
political articles have anything to do with home schooling and,
therefore, THSC? These kinds of complaints arise from time to
time when a subscriber asks the same questions or makes the
same observations. In fact, the usual complaint is “Why all the
focus on politics? Let’s just focus on home schooling!”
Yes, that is the question, and it is a foundational one. Almost 30
years ago I came to the realization that my freedom to make the
parenting decisions for my children was limited because those
who were making public policy for the state of Texas believed
that the government was better qualified than my wife and I.
At that time, the Texas Attorney General said he didn’t believe
parents were qualified to raise their children, much less home
school them. It became crystal clear to the home school community
that if we wanted to home school, we had to be involved
in the process by which public policy is made. That is, we had
to become involved in the process by which Texas chooses its
elected officials, or what we often refer to as “politics.”
January 6 a special election was held for the State House District
17 and THSC endorsed Brent Goleman, a long-time home
school dad and business man whom I’ve known for many years.
He will be in a runoff for that seat sometime in the near future.
I was told that the counties where his support was strongest
had very few polling places open, while the counties in which
his opponent was strongest had all regular polling places open.
(That sounds a little strange to me but that is not the point.)
A home school mom told Brent she drove 26 miles to a polling
place to vote for him and only did that because he was endorsed
by THSC. He is in a runoff now because of the commitment of
home schoolers to elect those who support the fundamental
constitutional right of parents to direct the care, control, and
upbringing of their children.
I know that many home schoolers believe they are too busy to
pay attention to political issues. I would suggest to everyone
that we can no longer afford to ignore the political issues of our
day. Our parental rights depend on our participation. So what
can you do?
1. If you are on Twitter or Facebook connect to THSC in that
way.
2. If you want to follow me on Twitter and Facebook you may
do that too.
3. You can sign up on the THSC website for legislative updates.
4. Join us at Capitol Days and involve your children in Keeping
Texas Families Free.
Whatever approach you take, get connected. Don’t wake up
one day and realize you lost a key freedom because you were
too busy.
Invite your friends and family to join you at Chick-fil-a off highway 281 and Evans, on January 31st for our Patriots
Spirit Night! All you have to do is mention FEAST and part of the proceeds of your purchase will go to our organization!
Dress in our Patriot colors (red, white, and blue) to show your Patriot spirit!
Family Educators Alliance of South Texas 8 9

“For we are His workmanship,
created in Christ Jesus unto good works,
which God hath before ordained
that we walk in them.”
Ephesians 2:10
STUDENT
COUNCIL
CLASSIFIED
Free Art Lessons for Kids
FEAST began with a vision for parents who wanted Christ first in educating
their children. We are blessed and grateful to the families that had a
dream to provide their families a place that they could come together to
educate their children while honoring our Lord Jesus Christ. Today we
are the only home school organization in the nation that owns its own
building. FEAST is a 501c3, nonprofit organization. Your family’s participation
and money helps keep that vision alive in educating the next
generation one family at a time.
Join our families and teachers for our annual
FEAST Co-op Christmas Social
Thursday, December 15, 6pm – 8pm
Co-op students present us with an evening of entertainment.
Co-op will be closed December 16 - January 2. May you all have a
blessed Christmas and a happy New Year. Email us and tell us about
your favorite Christmas memory (davilas@homeschoolfeast.com).
Holiday poinsettia’s will be available for pick-up Nov 6
– Dec 8
Holiday wreath’s will be available for pick-up the Dec
6 – Dec 8
We have a limited amount of wreaths still available for
purchase.
We need your help (in these areas)…
Please consider giving a little of your time by volunteering
and helping co-op maintain its offerings.
• Campus Monitor
• Study Hall Attendees
• Kitchen Clean Up
• End of the Day Clean Up
Teachers -
Do you have a love of learning?
Would you like to share God’s gifts
with others? Is FEAST a place you
call home? Teacher applications are
being accepted now for the 2017-
2018 FEAST Co-op year. (insert link)
Have a question or an inquiry? Contact
Roger and Johanna Davila davilas@homeschoolfeast.com
Theme Days
Tuesday, December 6 & Thursday,
December 8 – Fancy Day ( Dress in
your nicest clothes)
Upcoming Theme Days –
• January 10 & 12 – Royalty Day
• February 7 & 9 – Wacky Socks
Day
• March 7 & 9 – Tie Dye Day
• April 11 & 13 – Crazy Hat Day
Student Council is a Leadership Training Program
consisting of a collection of volunteer
students working to improve and excel in
HIS good works while engaging and encouraging
others to excellence.
During the month of November, we hosted our
Thanksgiving Cookie Give. Thank you to all who
helped and we hope that you all enjoyed some
yummy cookies.
Dan Frenette, certified art teacher,
is back making art instruction videos
on Youtube. FEAST cautions parents
to be mindful of what your child
has access to on Youtube and should
monitor your child’s use.
Click here to view
Mr. Frenette’s intro video!
FOR SALE
Rarely Used Wheat Grinder “Grain
Master by Whisper Mill.” Includes
complete grinder & flour container.
Asking $350. OBO: paid $600 new.
Please Contact Sandy Schaefer:
210-219-4100
s4hmom@yahoo.com
Student Western Art Contest,
Exhibit and Auction
Art Due Date - Friday, December 9, Noon - 6pm
Reception December 11 at the Briscoe Western Art Museum
The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo’s Western Art Committee is excited to announce its annual art contest, exhibit
and auction for high school students that live in South Central Texas and are US Citizens.
The top 25 works of art will be exhibited throughout the month of January 2017 at The Briscoe Western Art Museum
and will then be auctioned off on January 26, 2017. Afterwards the exhibit will be moved and displayed at the San
Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo on February 9-26, 2017.
Also on December 11 contestants will also have a chance to compete for the “People’s Choice Award” and the “Celebrity
Choice Award”.
For details and “Artwork Receipt Tag” click here! For questions call Adriana Rodriguez at 210-313-3869.
Family Educators Alliance of South Texas 10
11

FEAST
STANDARDIZED TESTING
By Jeanine Martin, FEAST Test Administrator
Every spring, FEAST conducts standardized
testing for students in 4th grade
and up. It is not a “high-stakes” testing
atmosphere, so no child should ever feel
anxious about being labeled a failure. The
main purpose of the test is to help you assess
your home schooled children’s strengths
and weaknesses. Only parents receive the
results.
If the results are great, feel free to maintain
your home school program as is. Or, if your
child needs additional challenge, consider
using gifted programs like Duke TIP. If the
results are worse than expected, new curriculum
or different teaching methods may be
needed. Parents may also want to consider
further testing for dyslexia or dyscalculia
when scores are extremely low.
Tests are merely another tool in our home
school arsenal. Do not worry about whether
or not your child tends to test well or poorly.
The results are only meant to help your
home school.
Barnes & Noble
Thank You!
We at FEAST want to thank everyone
that made our 1st Barnes & Noble
Fundraiser a success. It could not
have happened without the participation
of Encore Youth Chorus, HOST
Jazz Ensemble, LaDonna Fergason,
Charis Schmidt, the American Legion
Post #336, the Civil Air Patrol, and all
our volunteers and staff.
Without the support of our FEAST
family in love, time and financial support,
we would not be able to continue
assisting families in their home
school journey. If you have activities
or events that you would like to
share with the families at FEAST, contact
June with FEAST Events Team at
June@homeschoolfeast.com.
BOOKSTORE
FEATURES
Celebrate the
Reason for the
Season!
Take 20% off all
Christmas items!
Read all about
the First Thanksgiving!
Take 20% off or more
on these books written by
and about
the original Pilgrims!
Achievement Testing at FEAST
May 1 & May 3, 8:30am – 1pm
Cost: $75 per child
Registration will open in January. The deadline is: March 17, 2017
FEAST is happy to offer the home school community
standardized testing again this year. The state
of Texas does not require home schoolers to test
their children. FEAST offers this as a service for students
in grades 4 – 12. Space is very limited, and
registration will be accepted on a first come/first
registered basis. NOTE: No late registrations will be
accepted and there are no refunds after registration
has closed.
What is an achievement test?
An Achievement test measures a student’s level
on knowledge in: Word analysis, reading, comprehension,
vocabulary, mathematics, language,
spelling, and social studies/science.
Why take an achievement test?
Achievement tests help teachers and
students determine the level of
knowledge that has been acquired
in their education.
It helps teachers/parents
determine if
there are subjects
that may need more attention and focus.
10% off all Blue Orange games!
Keep them occupied and learning
over Christmas Break!
Code: BLO10CM16
Just in time for Christmas
all Melissa & Doug
items on sale!
20-50% off!
Code: MD25CM16
*limited to quantity on hand.
Family Educators Alliance of South Texas 12 13

The
Star
See the Star of Wonder
with your own eyes!
of
Wonder A
THEOLOGICAL AND SCIENTIFIC PRESENTATION Dr. Jerry
Hardwick, MDIV, Th.D.
First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio invites you to attend two very
special seminars presented by their Covenant Partner,
Elder Jerry Hardwick on
Sunday, December 11, 9:30 - 10:50am
The Heavens Declare: Astronomy and the Bible
Sunday, December 18, 9:30 - 10:45am
The Heavens Declare: The Star of Wonder
Through a compelling presentation,
Dr. Jerry Hardwick answers:
CHRISTMAS SING
Should Christians study Astronomy?
When was Jesus really born?
Who were the Wise Men?
Why were “Kings of the East” looking?
What did they see?
How did Jesus’ birth coincide with Jewish Feasts and dates?
Astronomy, History and Prophecy all confirm
Using sophisticated computer software, the audience will be transported through
time and location to the Holy Land to see "the Star" for itself! There is no charge
for attending, but we recommend arriving early to get a good seat. First
Presbyterian Church is located at 404 N. Alamo Street in San Antonio, TX 78205
For questions call 210 - 494 - 6902 or email milminsa@aol.com
FEAST
CHRISTMAS
RECITAL
SUGGESTED DONATION: $10
PER FAMILY UNIT
Come celebrate Christmas and
cheer on these singers of various
ages and experience as they give the
gift of song! Bring a treat to share
and come ready to sing along.
DEC 9, 6-9PM
6pm - Kid’s Voices
brief interlude
7pm - Teen Voices/private students
VENUE: LIFEHOUSE CHURCH
20825 WILDERNESS OAK,
SAN ANTONIO, TX 78258
star_ad.indd 1
9/26/05 3:26:21 PM
Family Educators Alliance of South Texas 14 Family Educators Alliance of South Texas 15

What’s
Up?
LA GRAN TAMALADA
Saturday, December 10,
Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center Theater,
723 S. Brazos St., 78207, 11am – 1pm
The Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center presents
La Gran Tamalada, the annual community
workshop that honors the tradition
of making tamales on Saturday, December
10, 11am to 1pm, in the Guadalupe Theater,
1301 Guadalupe St. The free event blends
storytelling, the history of the tamalada and
promotes cultural pride and lifelong learning.
Children and adults participate in this
hands-on opportunity to learn about the
ingredients, recipes and cooking methods
used in making this culturally iconic dish.
Participants take home both knowledge of
and appreciation for the techniques that
have been passed from generation to generation
for many years.
Ford Fiesta de las Luminaries
Friday – Sunday, December 9-11 and 15-18,
San Antonio Riverwalk, 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Ford Fiesta de las Luminaries: Experience the Holiday serenity
of the River Walk as you stroll along the lush banks
of the San Antonio River guided by more than 6,000
Luminaries. Warmly glowing candles in sand-filled bags
line the walkways to symbolically mark the “lighting of
the way” for the Holy Family. This century’s old tradition
begins at dusk Friday, Saturday & Sunday only.
THE LIVING
CHRISTMAS VILLAGE
Poteet Strawberry Fairgrounds
Friday, December 9th
Saturday, December 10th
Sunday, December 11th
Visit Bethlehem during the Time of Jesus
Admission is free
Gates open at 5:30pm
Tours begin at 6pm
CARTOONING CAMPS
WITH DAN NUCKOLS
March 10 – 11, 2017, 9:30am – 3pm at FEAST
Cost: Camp 1 only $79 for Patriot Pass, $99 non-patriot pass
Camps 1 & 2: $138 for Patriot Pass, $158 non-patriot pass
Cost includes instruction book
Registration deadline: February 28, 2017
Registration opens in January!
Dan Nuckols has been cartooning ever since he
was about 5 and has been published in various
publications, including the Washington Post. Dan
draws caricatures at local country fairs, and his website,
www.danspulpit.com, displays many of his cartoons designs.
Dan has created a 16 lesson series on cartooning
CARTOONING CAMP 1, AGES 9-18
Schedule: Friday, March 10
9:30-10:30am - Lesson 1 “Basic Shapes and Forms”
10:45-11:45am - Lesson 2 “The Face”
11:45-12:45pm - Lunch break
12:45- 1:45pm - Lesson 3 “Facial Expressions”
2:00-3:00pm - Lesson 4 “The Body”
course that he offers through Camps! If you have a student
who loves to doodle, these camps would be a great
opportunity for them to hone those skills and create engaging
and fun cartoons! Camps 1 & 2 are also for those
students that want to start learning the basics of drawing.
Parents are more than welcome to join their children
in class!
CARTOONING CAMP 2, AGES 9-18
Schedule: Saturday, March 11
9:30-10:30 am - Lesson 5 “Movement”
10:45-11:45 am - Lesson 6 “Animals”
11:45-12:45 pm - Lunch break
12:45- 1:45 pm - Lesson 7 “Perspective and
Buildings”
2:00-3:00 pm - Lesson 8 “Machines”
Contact the FEAST Events Coordinator,
June Haliscak at june@homeschoolfeast.
com for questions.
Natural Bridge Cavern’s free-to-visit
Hill Country Christmas Village
Saturday, December 17 – Friday, December 23:
Natural Bridge Caverns, 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Road, 78266, 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Make merry memories with your family at Natural Bridge Cavern’s free-to-visit Hill Country Christmas
Village, decked out in holiday splendor and colored lights. And everything you see, smell, hear
and taste reminds you of Christmas and wraps you up in the magic of the season. Take a picture
and make a new memory beneath the 30-ft tall, fully decorated tree – the hub of festivities. Shop
for special gifts and crafts. Indulge in freshly baked treats, seasonal candies and holiday delights.
After sunset, enjoy a musical light show approximately every 40 minutes, as all the Christmas lights
twinkle in a synchronized dance to holiday music.
How Can We Help?
Home School Foundation (HSF) is a charitable foundation established
in 1994 by HSLDA to bless the home schooling community and promote
home schooling by helping families in need through grants to home school
organizations. FEAST has an active HSF Ambassador to help guide individuals
through the application process. If you need help, please call Ann Marie
at 210 342-4674 ext. 15, and she can give you that information. If you would like to help others in our area, the
foundation will match our contributions dollar for dollar. To donate by phone with a credit card, call 540- 338-
8688. Tell them to mark your donation for the Texas State Ambassador Fund.
Family Educators Alliance of South Texas 16
17

THE BATTLE OF FLOWERS®
ASSOCIATION
Announces the 23rd Annual
Texas History Essay Contest
For 7th Grade Students
ESSAYS - Home school students may submit their essays to the FEAST Office by Friday, January 13, 2017, 4pm.
FINALIST - FEAST will forward on the top two home school essays on Monday, January 16, 2017.
WINNERS - Winner will be invited to ride in the 2017 Battle of Flowers Parade in a car with their name and school/
FEAST displayed, be published in the Battle of Flowers Parade program, will receive an award at The Battle of Flowers
College Oratorical Contest, and be invited to a luncheon with their parents on Friday, February 24, 2017.
Are you attending the
VALERO Texas Open – PGA TOUR –
San Antonio?
If so, please buy your ticket during the 12 Days of Giving
from December 1 – 12 sponsored by Valero! During those 12
days Valero will give $10 to FEAST for tickets sold in our name!
It is simple to participate and doesn’t cost you anything extra
to select FEAST to receive $10 from your ticket sales.
When you buy your general admission or hospitality ticket
online, just select FEAST from the drop down menu. Valero
will donate $10 back to FEAST! Simple as that! But the giving
doesn’t stop there. Valero will go one step further and match
all sales up to $500! What a way to bless the community.
Order tickets here: www.valerotexasopen.com
2017 Essay Topic: BLAZING TRAILS*Forts on the Texas Frontier
Throughout history, brave souls have been blazing new trails across Texas: American Indians, Spanish explorers,
Catholic missionaries, French soldiers, colonial entrepreneurs and Texas cattlemen. These trailblazers opened the
way for new settlers to populate the land of Tejas, the Republic and the state of Texas. But who would continue to
keep these roads open and safe for those traveling on them? It was a new type of pioneer who came to open the
territories of Texas and protect those who followed. It was the US Army. During the 1800s, the US Army established
and manned well over 40 forts and camps along the westward-moving frontier. In 1856 alone, 25% of the troops in
the US Army were based in Texas. Able soldiers like Benjamin H. Grierson and Ranald S. Mackenzie were on the Texas
frontier protecting settlers and connecting outposts of civilization in the unsettled West. These soldiers came to
an untamed land that was inhospitable, harsh and dangerous. They were challenged by the weather, the vast territory
and the unknown. They scouted for water in the desert, built their forts with adobe, native wood and stone,
strung telegraph lines, and battled a relentless war against the American Indians who fought to protect their way
of life. By the time the last of these forts closed, over 75,000 soldiers had come to the Texas frontier. Some were
famous like Phillip Sheraton. Some were unknown like the hundreds of immigrants looking for a stake in their new
country. But they all came to do their job...to tame the Texas frontier.
Fort Belknap
Fort Bliss
Fort Chadbourne
Fort Clark
Fort Concho
Fort Davis
SUGGESTED FORTS ON THE TEXAS FRONTIER:
Fort Griffin
Fort Sam Houston
Fort Lancaster
Fort Phantom Hill
Fort Martin Scott
Fort Mason
Fort McKavett
Fort Richardson
Fort Stockton
Fort Worth
Titled Entries will be judged on content, creativity, the interest generated, accuracy and appropriateness of topic
(70%), and on neatness of presentation, grammar, spelling and quality of research (30%). Resource materials
should be listed in standard bibliographic form on a separate page (not counted toward the length of the essay).
References will be checked for accuracy. Please note that essays must fall within the 350 to 700 word length to
qualify for the contest. Submit your child’s titled essay including the resource and reference page, and the signed
Statement of Originality Form to FEAST by Thursday, January 12, 2017, by 4pm.
Click here to print the Statement of Originality form.
Contact Ruth Perez at ruth@homeschoolfeast.com for questions.
Family Educators Alliance of South Texas 18
19 19

Home School Days Hill Country
Science Mill
December 14 for grades 6-12
$6 per student, one parent/teacher attends free
Housed in the historic 1880 feed mill, steam grist mill
and cotton gin located in the heart of Johnson City,
Texas, the Hill Country Science Mill recycles a historic
community landmark into a gathering place for the
community and a forum for science exploration. The design
was conceived, not as a contrast between new and
old, but as the dynamic evolution of the mill from a place
of industrial production to a place that can produce science
leaders for the new generation.
Each month, home school families are invited to come
Registration Deadline is December 16, 2016.
Contact Becky Walker for details at bwalker2@
alamo.edu.
January 14, 2017, marks the third annual solo competition
hosted by the San Antonio College Music Department,
coordinated by Becky Walker, voice faculty
and home school mom of 3, in conjunction with Kenneth
Lindsey and HOST orchestra. Applicants are encouraged
to enter, playing any variety of instruments
or singing. All music must be from the classical repertoire,
the only exception being that vocalists may sing
Broadway pieces that are approved by the committee
and deemed to be family-friendly.
This competition allows home schoolers the opportunity
to play before a panel of professional judges,
receive feedback, and, if chosen, perform in at least
two recitals. The scholarship money offered is also
a nice incentive, covering ¾ of the cost of their first
semester as a music student at San Antonio College,
should they decide to enroll. If a student does not desire
to enroll, the performance opportunities are still
such that they will gain professional concert experience,
being featured in two showcase concerts on the
departmental recital calendar. These accolades are impressive
on any college application. Past winners have
been singers and students who play instruments such
as piano, guitar, harp, clarinet, trumpet, and others. It’s
been a great experience for all, so please consider entering
your student and telling others about it as well.
All things were made by him; and without him
was not any thing made that was made.
John 1:3
and explore the Science Mill. In addi-
tion
to museum exhibits, we will offer special demonstrations,
activities and/or guests. Museum hours are
10am-4pm. Learning Labs will be offered at 11:30am and
1pm for an additional cost of $4 - $6 per student (limited
space available for Learning Labs). Please sign up to receive
our electronic educator newsletter to stay informed
about Home School Days by contacting us at info@sciencemill.org
to be added to our email list.
FEAST
Patriots
From Your
Athletic Director,
It’s Christmas time, and winter sports are in full swing at FEAST.
Our high school football team played in the TAIAO state title game
again this year. This has become a yearly event for our fine football
SPORTS
program, and we congratulate them on overcoming a lot of obstacles to
succeed as they have.
High School Soccer has begun their season. Thanks to all those who
responded to calls for players.
Golf has started their skills season with both middle school and high school players receiving professional instruction from
our partners at the “First Tee.” Anyone wishing to join this fine instructional program is welcome to do so. Contact us for more
information at AD@feasthomeschool.com .
Basketball is in the midst of their season with eight teams participating on the girls and boy’s sides. We host our own FEAST
Basketball Tournament early this month.
Please remember that spring sports are just around the corner with baseball and track and field planning “kickoff” events in
January. Golf will also start tournament play in the spring.
On that note we have a rare opportunity to expand the sports offerings at FEAST this spring to include Lacrosse! If you have
a middle school boy, grades 5 through 8 who would like to participate in Lacrosse, please contact Mr. Kevin C. Boyle at Cell:
(210)273-2661. We will need at least 13 for a functional team and if we get that response we will form a team this spring. But,
we need your responses now to see if this sport is feasible.
Remember that to participate in any FEAST sports, you will need a Patriot Pass, which allows your entire family access to all
FEAST activities for a full year. Remember also that we never wish that Patriot Pass to become an economic burden to anyone,
so if it is for your family, contact us so that we can work out a barter arrangement. We hope that you and your family will find a
place in all of these sports activities, and we pray that you are all well and enjoy the Spirit of Christ during this blessed season!
“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.” Psalm 133:1
Family Educators Alliance of South Texas 20 21

Get Ready For Track and Field!
Get Ready For Track and Field 2017
Three Kickoff Meetings: January 2, 5, and 9
Registration opens on January 2, 2017
The start of the 2017 Track season is just around the corner.
Returning athletes are training and preparing as we anticipate
another outstanding season to come. Here are some important
items to note:
Track Kickoff Meetings
There are three separate Track Kickoff meetings scheduled. Every
athlete and at least
one parent MUST attend
one of these three
meetings. At these
meeting we will discuss
plans for the season,
practices, meets,
and we will have uniforms
and apparel to
try on. After attending
the meeting, you can
go on-line to register
for the track team, select
uniform sizing and
purchase additional
apparel. Here are the three meeting dates:
• Monday Jan 2nd, Noon at Johnson High School. This
meeting is for returning athletes only as we will not go
into depth on our rules and expectations. We will have
an optional practice starting at 10am open to all athletes,
followed by our Veteran’s Kickoff Meeting.
• Thursday Jan 5th, 6pm in Burwood Hall at FEAST. For all
athletes
• Monday Jan 9th, 6pm in Burwood Hall at FEAST. For all athletes
Practices
Practices are EVERY Monday and Wednesday at 4:45pm to
7pm. The first high school practice will be Wednesday, Jan
18th, 4:45pm at McAllister Park. Practices will continue to be
held in McAllister Park until Monday January 30th in which
practices will switch to Randolph High School on Randolph
AFB. This first practice at Randolph will be our High School Assessment
where we test the high school athletes to help determine
which events they will train for this year. All future practices
will be at Randolph High School. Note: practices will end
early, around 6:30pm, the first few weeks of the season due to
darkness.
The first middle school practice will be Feb 1st, 4:45pm, at
Randolph HS on Randolph AFB. All middle school practices will
be held at this location every Monday and Wednesday throughout
the season. The middle school athletes will practice at the
same time as the high school athletes. The middle school assessments,
where we test the MS athletes, will occur at practice
on February 6th. It is very important for athletes to attend one
of the two assessment dates, especially if this is their first year
of track. MS athletes can be tested at the HS Assessments and
vice versa if necessary.
Meets
There will be 7-8
meets during the
season, and they
will all be local area
meets with the exception
of maybe
one high school
meet and the Home
School State meet.
Middle school meets
are held on Thursday
afternoon/evening,
or Friday afternoon/
evening or Saturday.
At the end of the middle school season there is an ISAL District
meet and the Home School State meet. High School meets are
typically on Saturday, but we will have a few on either Thursday
afternoon/evening or Friday afternoon/evening. The final high
school meet is the Home School State meet. This year FEAST
will be the meet host of the Home School State meet, and we
will host the meet at Hutto High School north of Austin.
Registration and Fees
To register for the track team you must have purchased a Patriot
Pass. Details for purchasing a Patriot Pass are found on
the FEAST website. Track registration will open January 2nd
and you will be able to register on-line after logging on the
FEAST website. There you will be able to register athletes for
the track teams. The registration fee is $75, with a family max
cap of $250. You will also select uniform sizing, purchase meet
shorts, t-shirts, and high school warmups if you so choose. The
Registration Deadline is January 17th.
Please pass the word to your home school friends and let them
know about the FEAST track team. If you have any additional
questions, please contact David Dunn at feasttrack@gvtc.com
Batter Up!
Kickoff meeting for Middle School
and High School Teams
Tuesday, December 13, 2017 at 6:30pm at FEAST
Attention: Baseball players: Middle school and high school boys
interested in playing baseball with FEAST are invited to attend the
Kickoff meeting in December, along with one of your parents.
There will also be player evaluations for middle school athletes,
and try-outs for high school athletes at the
beginning of February, with their respective
seasons beginning at the end of February
for boys between ages 11 and 18 as of
September 1, 2016.
For further information on our competitive
baseball programs, please contact
Commissioner Suzan Rutherford at patriots.
baseball@yahoo.com.
Kicking Off the New Year!
As we wish you all a wonderful Christmas
and New Year, we are happy to report that soccer
is up and running smoothly! We are excited
to see the dedication of all of our soccer players.
We had five openings left a week and a half
ago and only have three slots left. This is your
chance to get involved!
Our coaches are encouraging and very knowledgeable about the
game! They are enthusiastically coaching the team and helping the
boys to develop their skills. Come out and see how they have grown!
Bring the family and join us at our games to support our boys. Check
the sports calendar for times and locations.
Go Patriots, Go!
Volleyball
Nationals!
JV had a great season! In addition to
winning over a dozen local games,
the team took 2nd place in the Cole
Tournament, 3rd place in the silver
bracket at the state home school
tournament in Dallas, and 2nd place
at the TAIAO Varsity tournament in
Round Rock. Nine of the 14 players
were able to travel to Omaha, NE for
the National Home school Volleyball
Tournament at the beginning of November
where they placed 4th in the
gold bracket! We had an incredible
season with some amazing girls!!
VOLLEYBALL
SKILLS CLINIC
January 2
Cost: $35 a month
We will meet each Monday
Jan 2 – Feb. 6
8th grade – 12th grade
10 am – 2 pm
4th – 7th grade
noon – 2 pm
Feb 13 – May 29
4th – 7th grade
2-4 pm
8th – 12th grade
4-6 pm
REGISTER HERE!
Family Educators Alliance of South Texas 22 23

Football Tackled the Season Away!
14U Basketball Girls Championship!
The 2016 FEAST Football season wrapped up with the Patriots vs. the Ft Worth THESA Riders in Bryan, TX at Allen
Academy on November 26. This was a rematch of the 2015 State finals, where FEAST won in a close game. This
year THESA got the best of the Patriots in another close and hard fought game by both teams. The Patriots
came back twice from 20 point deficits to tie the game 56-56 with a few minutes left in the game. Ultimately, THESA
won 70-64.
It has been an unusual season, where coaches and players alike have been challenged to overcome obstacles not
foreseen and to depend increasingly upon each other and upon the Lord. He has been faithful yet again! Many
thanks to the coaches, parents and families that continue to make this football program one of the best home school
programs in the state and even the country.
Football Off Season program: Players are encouraged to participate in the FEAST Track & Field program. Registration
begins in December and first meetings and practices are in January.
FEAST Spring Football camp will be in May. Likely dates are May 8 – 23. Registration fee is $95 per player. This is a
great opportunity to come out and experience the team, coaches and game of six man football. Players will be in
shorts & shirts for the camp and focus on learning the basic skills needed for football, as well as the rules of the game
of six man football.
The 2017 Fall Season starts with registration in July. First practices are early August, and games start at the end of
August. The program is designed for boys ages 12-18.
The 14U Girls (left to right: Emma, Daniela, Macy, Mia, Avery, Cacie, Lesha, Alex, Maddie, and Evie-not pictured)
coached by Maley Young (Head coach) and Olivia Krehbiel took the Championship at the Round Rock Fall Classic
Tournament. Congratulations, Lady Patriots!
Looking Fore-ward to Spring!
The first Fall Golf season, has come to a close. Thank
you for praying for our team.
We had players take part in tournaments, practice,
and most importantly building friendships.
Golf will begin again in the Spring! Come and experience
our top notch professional coaches at
The First Tee of Greater San Antonio!
Mark Tisdale and Taylor Carruth have
instructed and guided our players on
the course, at the Polo Field, and at
TopGolf.
We thank FEAST, our athletic director,
Scott Lane, and all the office staff
for their patience and support!
Family Educators Alliance of South Texas
24
25

FEAST
Calendar
December
January
1-12 12 Days of Giving
6 Poinsettia &Wreath pick-up
8 Essential Oil Workshop
9 Art deadline Student Western
9 FEAST Christmas Recital
13 Baseball kickoff meeting
15 Co-op Christmas Social
16 Reg. deadline At Home with Music
21-30 FEAST will be closed
23 Reg deadline Aerospace Engineering
for kids
2 Track & Field Kickoff Meeting
4 Reg. deadline National Geo Bee
4 Reg. deadline National Spelling Bee
5 Track & Field Kickoff Meeting
6 National Geo Bee
9 Track & Field Kickoff Meeting
10 National Spelling Bee
11 Aerospace Engineering for Kids
13 Essay deadline Texas History
20 Civics
23 Science Workshop
31 Early Reg. deadline Generation J
31 FEAST Chick-fil-a Spirit Night