ENOCH of New Jersey e-Newsletter

APRIL 2012

From the President’s Desk

Our 22nd Annual Convention is May 18-19, 2012! Register Today!

JUST A REMINDER THAT EARLY-BIRD REGISTRATION ENDS APRIL 15TH! 
AFTER THAT DATE THE COST GOES UP!

This month there is a lot going on at ENOCH and I would like to give you a perspective of ENOCH that many of you may not know.  I remember writing something similar a few years ago and many folks responded that they had no idea. Because we have many new homeschoolers joining us, I felt the need to share the facts again.

ENOCH is a non-profit organization and as such, we:

• Are not paid nor do we have any paid staff members. This organization is run completely by volunteers.
• ENOCH does not have an office somewhere. All of the volunteers handle things within their own homes. Much of the day-to-day operations are run from my home.
• All calls to the office and emails directed to the office are handled by volunteers. We try to answer people’s questions and give them some direction. That type of phone call could last between10 minutes and up to 45 minutes.
• ENOCH does not have any income for the organization outside of the convention at this time. So, if the convention fails, ENOCH is forced to make cutbacks on running the organization.
• ENOCH spends over $58,000 a year for the annual homeschool convention, just the Expo Center and decorator costs us approximately $45,000.  As costs go up, ENOCH tries to keep the costs down. Even with rising prices, we have not raised the registration fees for over five years. Exhibitors pay a registration fee to show at the convention. If they have a bad year, they usually don’t return.
• Setting up the website, organizing the volunteers and used curriculum sale are all done by the convention staff who give up their time to put it all together.

You see my point. Without you, the homeschooling families of New Jersey, we cannot function. We need you to help us. A small handful of people cannot do it alone. Nor do I want them to.

Recently my wife shared with me some feelings concerning ENOCH.  People say they want a teen track but very few teens register for it; people want a Children’s Program but state how expensive it is; people want to see certain vendors at the convention, but unless there are attendees, the vendors don’t come.  I know she’s right. I know some of the volunteers are tired. I know this convention takes a huge chunk out of our lives, (did you know that we are already working on next year's convention?).  But I also know there are families and individuals that need this convention. There are parents looking for help for their child. There are teens looking for direction. Children have special needs that many don't seem to understand. That's what ENOCH is all about.

I look back at what NJ went through this past year with the homeschool bills that were introduced.  We gave you updates and told you what was needed and you re-acted accordingly.  NJ homeschoolers united together to fight the cause against government control, and we need you to be united with us again.

On a daily basis, our Facebook page is updated with things that we hope help, bless, and encourage you. But this too takes time from someone’s schedule to put the word out there.

I think you get my drift. ENOCH is here for you, but we cannot do it alone.

I want to ask you to do one thing for me: Pray that God will be magnified. If we miss or forget to do all for the glory of God, then we have missed the boat and it’s time to walk away.

Thank you for listening and allowing me to share my thoughts.

God bless you all,
Rich Millward
President

Encouraging Words For Homeschoolers Across The Nation

Why Attend a Homeschool Convention?

Over the years, I have had several moms ask why I think it is important to attend a Homeschool Convention every year.

Well, there are several reasons. Homeschool Conventions are designed to help refresh the homeschooling parent, educate the parent, encourage the parent, support the parent, and advise the parent. There are more ideas behind the homeschool convention too.  Keeping parents up to date on state regulations, informing parents to new options, helping parents find local support, and more.

I enjoy going to homeschool convention to gain new insight and ideas to help keep our homeschool interesting and lively.

I love being able to see the new curriculum and even older items out there, look through and pray about it.  I like to be able to talk to the publishers at their booth.

Getting to know other homeschooling parents who understand the same struggle and triumphs that I go through.  Being able to visit with real moms, who know what other homeschool mothers go through, because they are living it too, is such an encouragement.

I also, now that I have been homeschooling for several years, often find that I am seasoned enough to offer a bit of advice, support and encouragement.

Homeschooling is not easy.  It isn’t a short term thing for many.  It will keep you up at night, it will be tough.  You will laugh, you will cry, and you may even yell and stomp.

Going to a homeschool convention will help you understand that the struggles you are going through, are almost always someone else’s struggle.  You are not alone, and there is almost always someone there who can offer you  a hug, advice, support, encouragement, and above all a prayer.

I have met some of my biggest encouragers at homeschool conventions.

There was a time nearly six years ago,  I was attending our area homeschool convention with our just turn three week old infant.  He cried through EVERY SINGLE workshop I attended and I left most of them.  He cried ALL THE TIME for the first two months of his life.

During the very last session of that convention, he was again screaming, I got up to yet again leave, near tears, as I had struggled through homeschool that year.  I needed a bit of encouragement and support.  I was ready to quit homeschooling at this time, as our oldest wasn’t reading, we couldn’t read his writing, math was hard, and I was failing as a homeschool mom.   The speaker had watched me leave numerous workshops and asked me to stay.  I don’t even remember what that session was supposed to be about, but a group of about 30 women circled around me, prayed for me, and offered support, encouragement and advice to help get through the next year.  That speaker and I are now friends and chat.

That is why we should all attend homeschool conventions.  We may get some support at our local groups and meetings, but honestly, it can be like never changing your meal plan. Especially if you live in a smaller community, or have children with special needs.

ENOCH’s 22nd Annual Homeschool Convention - Bring the Whole Family!

This year, more than ever, the Homeschool Convention has something for everyone!

Moms & Dads – attend workshops and listen to speakers who go through the same things you do: the ups and downs, the joys and struggles, etc.

Parents of Struggling Learners – There are several speakers who have expertise in dealing with problems of struggling learners.  Their goal is to equip you with practical tools you can use at home.

Parents of Teens – This year check out the workshops relating to: high school, what happens after high school – college or military; preparing your teen for the future, and so on.

Parents of Young Children – Topics for parents of pre-schoolers are: How do you handle teaching a pre-schooler with older ones in the home?; The spiritual training of young children; Giving your children spiritual convictions, and more.

Teens – On Saturday, there is an all-day program for teens. “How Evolutionized are You?” presented by Mike Snavely of Mission Imperative is an interactive program that will challenge your teens with their theology.  Mike will take your teens on an adventure of a lifetime. Ages 13-17. Check out the video to see more.

Children Ages 5-12 – Children’s Program presented by The Knightlights. The theme this year is: “Idols of the Heart” relating Bible stories and Christian biographies. They will interact with your children and will give them something that will stay with them for many years to come. There is a total of 7 sessions and new this year, a special pricing.

For everyone – There are 37 workshops on topics for new homeschoolers, veteran homeschoolers, large families, average families, families with young children, parents with middle grades children and parents with teens.  There will be practical advice, spiritual direction, encouragement and renewed conviction.  In addition to workshops, there will be a full Exhibit Hall with 90+ Exhibitors, a Used Curriculum Sale and a chance to informally network with other homeschoolers.

We are offering a gift to every family who attends – A free virtual CD! You will receive a code to download the $250+ free curriculum and coupons.

All convention news and details are available at www.enochnj.org.  Register by Apr. 15 to save money!

WE’RE DEPENDING ON YOU!

The date of the annual ENOCH Convention is fast approaching (May 18-19)!  In order to have the convention run smoothly, over 180 volunteers are enlisted every year.  For those of you who have already volunteered, we are very grateful.  Your response has been overwhelming!  We currently have 42% of our volunteer positions filled.
 
There are many needs available for you to fill.  We have needs for the following positions for both Friday and Saturday.  

• Ask Me! Ushers
• CD Sales
• Greeters
• Hospitality
• Registration
• Used Curriculum 
• Used Curriculum Cashiers
• Workshop Monitors

Please consider helping your statewide homeschool community by volunteering at the convention.  To volunteer, register for the convention and then follow this link to volunteer.
 
Questions? Email Elaine Gardner at volunteers@enochnj.org

A WORD FROM OUR GUEST SPEAKERS ....

DON'T MISS THEM AT OUR ANNUAL ENOCH HOMESCHOOL CONVENTION  MAY 18-19, 2012!

Messy people welcome here…by Tracy Klicka

I started reading a really good book a few months ago, which touches on the theme of prayer—how we consider prayer, how we approach God in prayer, how we live a transformed life of prayer. It’s called A Praying Life, by Paul Miller. Here a few thoughts from the book which have challenged me once again to be even more real with my heavenly Father:

Jesus opens His arms to his needy children and says, “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.”  ~Matt. 11:28

The criteria for coming to Jesus is weariness…What does it feel like to be weary? You have trouble concentrating. The problems of the day are like claws in your brain. You feel pummeled by life. What does heavy-laden feel like? Same thing. You have so many problems you don’t even know where to start…Jesus wants you to come to Him that way!

Don’t try to get the prayer right; just tell God where you are and what’s on your mind. That’s what little children do. They come as they are, runny noses and all. Like the disciples, they just say what is on their minds…

Why is it so important to come to God just as you are? If you don’t, then you are artificial and unreal, like the Pharisees. Rarely did they tell Jesus directly what they were thinking. Jesus accused them of being hypocrites, of being masked actors with two faces…

The only way to come to God is by taking off any spiritual mask. The real you has to meet the real God. He is a person…Come overwhelmed with life. Come with a wandering mind. Come messy.

Messy? God wants me to come messy? I confess I don’t like doing messy. I all too often want to come to God like a neatly-wrapped package, as if I were a present to Him! Besides not being a neatly-wrapped present, I’m like a present that’s broken before it’s taken out of the box, like a blender that won’t blend, and which should be returned to the store! I am constantly in need of God’s work of grace to fix me, put me back together again, and make something beautiful of my life.

Sometimes I forget that this is exactly how God wants me to come—needy, broken, empty-handed, and eager to receive His forgiveness, grace, and power.

I came to know the Lord Jesus as my Savior in just the way Miller recommends…empty-handed and pouring out my heart to Him like a little child. As a young person my life had been pretty messed up; there was brokenness everywhere. I don’t recall ever being able to run to my earthly father for comfort, a gentle word, or patient help. How incredibly alone and broken I felt!
As I entered my teen years, I became even more aware of how broken I was. I was desperate for God’s healing, forgiveness, love and help. He heard my cry for help, redeemed my life from the pit, and crowned me with lovingkindness:

“O LORD my God, I cried to You for help, and You healed me. O LORD, You have brought up my soul from Sheol; You have kept me alive, that I would not go down to the pit. Sing praise to the LORD, you His godly ones, and give thanks to His holy name.”
                                        ~Psalm 30:2-4

Coming as Little Children

Despite how imperfectly our earthly fathers reflected the father-heart of God, our heavenly Father always wants us to come like little children, on whom He wants to lavish His abundant, transforming love.

God needs nothing from us; rather, He is an overflowing fountain of life to all who would come to Him through Jesus Christ. All the giving is done by Him, and all the receiving is done by us! Oh, how good He is to welcome us this way, with all our mess, all our doubt, and all our temptations to cling to the world’s trinkets when He’s offering us gold.

I may doubt sometimes that He really hears me. I might not like the fact that my prayers seem to meet at times (well, okay…OFTEN) with His silence. Yet I’m thankful that I can come as a child to my Father. The reality is He does hear His children when they cry to Him. We can trust Him to give us what is best for He alone truly knows what is best for us, and in His perfect wisdom and love will withhold no good thing from His child.

If you are His child, it is my hope that you will have this confidence. However messy your life is, however broken, depleted, or tired you are, come. Come and pour out your heart to God. He is ready to hear your cries for help and answer you.

“Let me hear in the morning of Your steadfast love, for in You I trust. Make me know the way I should go, for to You I lift up my soul.” ~Psalm 143:8

ENOCH is on facebook and twitter!

         

 We are on Twitter and Facebook! BECOME A FAN TODAY  of  ENOCH of New Jersey on facebook and twitter!  Find out all the  homeschool happenings in NJ as welll as links, announcements, stories, etc. that are posted to help you and get connected to the homeschool community through social media. Tell every homeschooler you know!

Why Join HSLDA?

Protects your right to homeschool and defends your family. A lawyer is on call 24/7.
Provides fast help by phone or email: Get direct answers to your specific questions about home education. Veteran homeschooling parents are available to answer your questions and help you find resources for teaching your children:

• Early years (PreK–8th grade)
• High school (including preparing for college or career paths)
• Struggling learners (special needs/gifted and talented)

Preserves homeschool freedom for all families by promoting homeschooling nationwide, as well as by working with state homeschooling groups to pass homeschool-friendly legislation and stop unfavorable bills at the state and federal levels. 

Partners you with the cause: Although homeschooling is recognized in every state, HSLDA receives phone calls each day from families whose right to homeschool is being challenged or discriminated against by school officials, social workers, employers, colleges, armed services recruitment officers, and government bureaucrats. The customizable nature of homeschooling defies the educational elite’s ideal of mandatory, uniform indoctrination—making parental choice in education a target for elimination.  By joining HSLDA, you are supporting families who are fighting for their right to homeschool today and standing together to preserve homeschooling freedom for tomorrow.  

You can receive ENOCH's Discount Number to save on your HSLDA Membership by contacting ENOCH via the Office Email, office@enochnj.org.
For more information visit the HSLDA website:  www.hslda.org 

OTHER EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES 

IT'S USED CURRICULUM SALE TIME AGAIN......

Used Curriculum Sale: Tailgate Style!

Join us for the Sovereign Grace

Used Curriculum Sale: Tailgate Style!

What: Used homeschool materials, including books, DVDs, VCR tapes, academic games, anything related to education.  Sell what you don’t need anymore, shop for next year, or both!

When: Saturday, April 28, 2012 from 9am-1pm

*Rain date: Saturday, May 5, 2012

Where: Sovereign Grace Church parking lot, 111 Greentree Rd. Marlton, NJ

*seller set-up from 8am-8:45am in the church parking lot. You are welcome to use the trunk/back of your vehicle and/or your own table.

Sellers: Contact Ellen MacMichael (el@macmichael.com) to sign up

* Please, no yard sale items, but those used for educational purposes!

Hunterdon County Christian Homeschoolers Used Curriculum Sale

Hunterdon County Christian Homeschoolers is planning a used curriculum sale Friday, April 20, 4;00-8:00pm at Central Hunterdon Baptist Church in Flemington, NJ (325 Route 31).  Curricula and educational materials of all levels will be available.  Don't miss the FREE tables!  HCCH teen Service Club will have baked goods available for sale.  Come see what you can find, before you attend the homeschool conventions!  Limited table space is available for sellers.  If you would like to sell, or just want further information, please contact Hannah Mabie at hmabie1@comcast.net or Kristin Urmston at kurmston@comcast.net.

CHEG USED CURRICULUM SALE

Who.......Anyone interested in buying or selling homeschool related items
What......CHEG....  HOMESCHOOL USED CURRICULUM SALE. 
Where....Grace Tabernacle Church, 4041 Squankum-Allenwood Rd., Allenwood (Wall), NJ 08720
When.....Thursday, May 3, 2012  7pm -9pm (set-up 5:30)
How.........Register by e-mailing ljsodano@aol.com.  Include name, phone number and number of tables needed.

There is no cost for a table.  Unless otherwise indicated each registered person will be assigned one 8 ft table.
Any questions?  Contact Lisa-Jean Sodano via e-mail at ljsodano@aol.com.
Please do not contact Grace Tabernacle Church.

This curriculum sale is a service to fellow homeschoolers.  Sellers are limited to homeschoolers only but anyone is welcome to come and purchase!  Tell your friends!  The items which can be sold must be education-related (i.e. curriculum / books/video and audio tapes / cd's / dvd's / games / legos/kinex, etc). As well as any crafts made by children are welcome to be sold. Please, NO yard sale items.

HSN’s Annual Used Curriculum Sale

It is that time of year!!! Spread the word!!! Gather all the books, videos, magazines, readers, educational resources, and curriculum that you are no longer using.  Come join us for HSN’s Annual Used Curriculum sale on Saturday, May 5, 2012, from 2-5pm.

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church
2730 Princeton Pike
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648 US

Additional details can be found at www.homeschoolsupport.org. (click on the public calendar, then go to May 5th and click on HSN Annual Curriculum Sale for more information).
 If you have any questions, please contact us at hsn@homeschoolsupport.org.

Gloucester County Christian Home Schoolers Association Used Curriculum Sale

Friday, June 1st 2012    9:00am – 1:00pm
Bethel Christian Center
1583 Blackwood-Clementon Road
Blackwood, NJ  08012

FREE SEMINAR AFTER THE END OF THE CURRICULUM SALE!  BRING A FRIEND AND SHARE THE BLESSING OF KAREN DEBEUS,  FROM OLD SCHOOLHOUSE MAGAZINE AND 2012 FEATURED SPEAKER FROM ENOCH PRESENTING: “SIMPLIFYING HOMESHOOL-LETTING GOD LEAD YOUR HOMESCHOOL”

Seller tables are available on a first-come basis. Sorry, no refunds-no exceptions
Please make checks payable to GCCHSA and mail to:
c/o Dana Insley, P. O. Box 411, Sicklerville, NJ 08081
Questions? Please email Dana at I_am_His_child@hotmail.com or visit our website www.gcchsa.org

“Simplifying Homeschool – Letting God Lead Your Homeschool”
Based on Matthew 6:33, we will discuss why seeking first His righteousness will ensure our homeschool success. Writing out goals for homeschool, a family mission statement, and a verse to cling to for your family are part of this process. I believe that if God called you to homeschool, He wants to lead your homeschool!  In this workshop Karen will help you get a handle on your homeschool, by simplifying getting rid of the clutter that can physically and mentally disrupt our homeschool. More importantly, getting rid of anything that distracts us from putting God first which can hinder our efforts in our homeschools. God must be our first priority! Simplifying homeschool is about keeping our focus on God and why we chose to homeschool in the first place. Learning how to get rid of distractions whether they be physical, mental, or spiritual, and prioritize our homeschools so that we can glorify God in all that we do!”

New Home School Co-op in Northwest Jersey

A new home school co-op is coming to the Northwest Jersey area!

The Learning Connection Home School support group would like to announce their academic/enrichment co-op that will be starting in Hackettstown for the fall of 2012.  This one day a week co-op will be held on Thursdays starting at 10:30 AM.

The support group was started in 2010 and has been in prayer over starting a co-op for the home school community.  The Learning Connection is a Christ-centered home school support group ministering to families in Northwest Jersey.  We are here to encourage you on this journey of homeschooling through many facets.  Some of the variety of family activities that you can take part in are as follows but not limited to.

• Mom's Night Out
• Family Nights Field Trips
• Field Trips
• Holiday Parties
• Geography/Science fairs
• standardized testing
• graduation events for all ages  
• and much, much more

The mission of the TLC co-op is to support and assist parents in the training of their children by providing classes to supplement and enrich their education in a class environment.

Because this is a cooperative effort, there will be a pooling of our resources and skills. Everyone must contribute so that this co-op can be a success, whether it is to teach, assist, hall monitor, nursery, etc. One parent must be present every hour that their children are attending classes. This is a non-profit ministry cooperative by families to families.

Prices of classes are determined by the costs of supplies alone. Teachers will be giving of their time.  Please Note:   Although we offer pre-school classes, all TLC co-op families must have at least one school age child participating in the classes who must be at least five years old by October 30th.

You can visit our website at www.mytlcnj.com for more information and see if this group is for your family. Please stay tuned for more information to come.

For questions, please contact the group at www.mytlcnj.com.

Westerly Learning Center

Position Available: Westerly Learning Center

Position Available: Westerly Learning Center is seeking to hire an art teacher for the 2012-2013 academic year. The individual must be a committed Christian, have a college degree in visual art (art education, preferred) and have experience working with children. If you are interested in applying for this position, please send your resume to Kim Torquato, Director WLC at learningcenter@westerlyroad.org or call 609-683-1430. 

Judges needed: The Westerly Learning Center

Judges needed: The Westerly Learning Center debate club will be participating in NCFCA regional finals on April 11-14. They are in desperate need of community judges. If you are interested in participating as a judge but have no prior experience, you can still volunteer. New judges will be trained the day of the debates. For more information, please contact Ann Wild at onewildann@aol.com or call 908-874-6657.  

High School Counseling 101: Westerly Learning Center

High School Counseling 101: Thinking about homeschooling your student through high school? Does it seem like a daunting task? Jeanette Webb, of Aiming Higher Consultants will be conducting  a workshop at Westerly Learning Center on June 1st, from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm, about how to successfully homeschool your student through high school.

Topics include:

• Evaluating the quality of high school classes
• Assessing which standardized tests your student needs
• Looking at extracurricular activities realistically
• Mapping out a four-year plan for high school that includes tests and classes
• Breaking down the four-year plan into yearly action steps and monthly to-do lists
• Getting inside the mind of a college admissions officer so you will know how to plan

The cost for the workshop is $100/family. If you are interested in participating, please contact Kim Torquato, Director, WLC by April 20th at learningcenter@westerlyroad.org or call 609-683-1430.

Open House for Homeschoolers: Westerly Learning Center

Open House for Homeschoolers: Westerly Learning Center will be hosting an Open House on Saturday, April 28th, from 9:30 am – 12:00 PM. The agenda for the morning includes opening remarks at 9:30 am followed by a panel discussion, “The Journey Towards Successful Homeschooling.” Our panel will be comprised of several homeschooled students who will share their personal success stories. Come meet our teachers and students and learn about our programs. Student projects will be on display and refreshments will be served. For further information, please contact Kim Torquato, Director of WLC at learningcenter@westerlyroad.org or call 609-683-1430.

Home-Based Educational Services: Montessori Elementary Homeschooling and Tutoring

My name is Suzanne Marie Amato. I am an experienced, Montessori Elementary and NJ State certified teacher.  Thoughout my years of  teaching in both public and private schools, I realized the need for better alternatives to institutional education.   After spending three summers in intensive Montessori Elementary training, and sitting through many educational psychology classes, I realized something was missing in the translation from teacher-training to actual implementation in the classroom.
 
A passionate educator, I soon realized I could not promote change from within, so I decided to create my own program.  Having spent many years with children of all ages, I realized what homeschoolers already know.  You must, first and foremost, know the child.  Their strengths, interests, and individual potential are the foundation for the intellectual, emotional and physical health of our children. The bond that parents have with their children is their greatest asset.
 
After establishing a solid relationship based on mutual respect with the student, the foundation for learning is set.  I can then share my love of learning and critical thinking. 
I specialize in:

• teaching critical thinking skills using Socratic reasoning
• moving from the concrete to abstract in mathematical concepts
• emphasizing cross-curricular connections
• Discovery-based learning

If you are seeking a curriculum and don’t know where to begin, I have a full Montessori elementary curriculum including lessons and materials for: K-8 Math, Geometry, History, Geography, Science, and K-12 Language Arts: including vocabulary, spelling, grammar, literary analysis and writing.
 
Through many years of research and training, I have also created my own Literature and Writing program based on higher-level, meta-cognitive comprehension strategies and the 6 Traits of Writing. Also available are Language SAT prep, preparation for state testing and high school entrance exams. Affordable private and group lessons are available in Bergen County thoughout the year. Email Lv2reed@aol.com or call 201-439-0601 for more information. 

PASSION PLAY, “HE IS ALIVE!”  AT FOUNTAIN OF LIFE CENTER-TICKETS ARE STILL AVAILABLE!

The Fountain of Life Center, 2035 Columbus Rd., Florence Twp., will present live performances on stage of its annual Easter Passion Play, “He Is Alive!” starting Saturday, March 24th.   “He Is Alive!” is the story of the most compelling drama in the Bible.  Come share in the joy of celebration as Christ enters Jerusalem!  See the betrayal by Judas!  Witness the crucifixion at Golgotha!   Experience the glory and wonder of His resurrection in a visually stunning finale! Over 200 volunteers participate to make this a spectacular event not to be missed!

Fourteen live performances of “He Is Alive!” will be held on the following dates:

MAR  24           2:00 PM    &    7:00 PM
MAR 30              7:30 pm
MAR 31              2:00 PM    &    7:00 PM
APR  1                2:00 PM    &    7:00 PM
APR  4                7:30 PM
APR  5                7:30 PM
APR  6                2:30 PM     &   7:30 PM
APR  7                2:00 PM     &   7:00 PM
APR  8                6:00 PM

For more information about tickets($1.00-$10.00 each) and captivating photos of this magnificent play depicting the final week of Jesus’ life on earth visit the Fountain of Life Center website: www.flcnj.org. 

The FAITH Center For The Arts Spring Musical

The FAITH Center for the Arts announces its spring musical, Into the Woods, Jr.  with performances at Grace the Church on the Mount on Route 46 in Netcong, Roxbury Township, NJ on Friday, April 20 (evening) and Saturday, April 21 (matinee and evening).  This family-friendly, one act musical is being directed by FAITH Center drama teachers Jennifer O’Leary and Reena Kirspel and features the God-given talents of over two dozen FAITH Center students.  The FAITH Center, founded almost 20 years ago by Bill and Lori Briggs, offers homeschooled students of all ages professional instruction in the arts with a focus on exploring and developing talents to glorify God. Tickets for Into the Woods, Jr. will be available through the FAITH Center’s website, www.faith-center.com. 

The FAITH Center For The Arts Fine Arts Program for Homeschoolers

Even with a large homeschooling family, it’s difficult to create a full band or orchestra on your own.  It’s challenging to gather enough young vocalists to create your own high school choir.  While you may be happy to provide your students with lots of art supplies to spark creativity, you may feel unqualified to teach drawing or may not have access to a kiln for trying pottery.  Maybe your student has a passion for the guitar but your forte is the flute.  Perhaps you’d prefer that your elementary age daughter learns to dance from a Christian professional who uses music with worshipful lyrics and chooses recital outfits that are appropriately modest.  Maybe you would like to find one affordable alternative to making multiple trips on various days to seek out opportunities for your children to attend music, art, dance, and drama classes.  Whatever your reason for seeking professional instruction in the arts from a Christian perspective, the FAITH Center, where the focus is on exploring and developing talents in the arts to glorify God, may be your answer to prayer. 

While certain endeavors are very doable on your own, others are more difficult.   For almost 20 years, the FAITH Center for the Arts has helped bridge that gap and provided hundreds of homeschooling families with high quality professional instruction in the arts for students of all ages.  With almost 100 courses offered at their Randolph location, there truly is something for everyone.  Instrumental music, vocal music, drama, dance, and all types of art, including computer art, are available at tuition rates that reflect an understanding of the financial challenges facing homeschooling families. The FAITH Center currently offers programs in Randolph in Morris County and Sparta in Sussex County.  Tours are currently being scheduled for families interested in enrollment for the 2012-2013 school year.  Visit our website at www.faith-center.com or call us at 973-252-5043 to schedule a time to observe our program.

Field Station: Dinosaurs

Take your students on the adventure of a lifetime - an outdoor expedition into the age of dinosaurs featuring over 30 life-sized, state-of-the-art animatronic dinosaurs. Set in the Meadowlands against the backdrop of a prehistoric rock formation, Field Station: Dinosaurs is the Northeast's most unique destination for learning.
  
Coming May 14th

Field Station: Dinosaurs is a world-class family attraction that combines cutting-edge science with the creative minds of great artists and teachers to create a one-of-kind experience that's thrilling, educational and fun. Thanks to the brilliant engineering of the world's leading roboticists and the imagination of our artists, we will have over thirty life-sized, realistic dinosaurs come to life. It will be an extraordinary and fun learning opportunity for your students

• Class Trips include programs, games, and workshops designed in collaboration with The New Jersey State Museum. Field Station: Dinosaurs is aligned with New Jersey’s Core Curriculum Content Standards in Science Practices, Life Science, and Earth Systems Science.
• Ticket Prices: 20 – 49 tickets: $15.75 each. 50+ Tickets: $15 each. Hudson County Schools $14 each with a $5 handling fee. With every 20 student tickets purchased, groups may have one complimentary teacher / chaperone ticket.
• Box Lunches are available for student groups when ordered at least 48 hours in advance. Lunches are $8 per guest. A variety of drinks are also available for purchase on site.
• School Bus Parking: Free; Buses will unload students in a designated area near the entrance gates of the Field Station. Buses may not unload passengers until greeted by Field Station staff. Buses will then be directed to park in the FSD Lot located east of the Field Station off of New County Road.
• This is an outdoor exhibition; please be prepared for all types of weather.
• Estimate a minimum of 2 hours at the Field Station – this includes walking through the park and participation in the game or workshop. If you choose to eat lunch at the Field Station this will add time to your stay.
• To make reservations:  
• call us at 973.748.4317 Monday- Friday 9am-4pm
• fax us an order form and ST-F form at 973.748.3010 
• Email us at groups@fieldstationdinosaurs.com

Tickets for Teachers/Chaperones

Students must be accompanied by a minimum of one adult for every ten students.
With every 20 student tickets purchased, groups may have one complimentary teacher / chaperone ticket. Additional chaperone tickets may be purchased at the same group rate extended to students.

Payment Policies

The Field Station accepts school district purchase orders (for reservations), Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover and business checks. Cash is accepted in person only. Reservations require a 50% deposit paid within two weeks of your order date to secure your reservation. Payment in full must be received four weeks prior to your Field Station visit. Save time by paying in advance. Additional tickets may be purchased for your group on the day of your visit and may be paid for at the Box Office.

Cancellations and Refunds

Payments for field trips canceled before your scheduled trip will be forfeited or may be credited toward a trip scheduled within one calendar year of the original order.
Tickets are non-refundable. Please call the Group Sales hotline at 973.748.4317 at least 72 hours before your trip to notify us of a change in plans. Date changes are based on availability.
Field Station: Dinosaurs does not guarantee admission to school groups without a reservation. Schools may be turned away if field trip dates are changed without prior approval.

Schedule your workshop when you reserve your tickets:

• RAPTOR FEUD: Top 8 answers on the board – name a game that’s fast-paced, educational and fun. Show me “Raptor Feud”! Played just like the famous game show, the Feud gives every child a chance to show off his or her knowledge of dinosaurs, geology and archeology. The answers can all be found at The Field Station and because we play in teams, everyone has a chance to shine.
• MESOZOIC CONCENTRATION: Students learn what it means to be a dinosaur hunter in this exciting team activity. It takes more than shovels to create a dig site. The discovery process is complex, equal parts hard work, hard science and out-of-the-box creativity. Students learn about the paleontologist's tools – from giant earthmovers to electron microscopes – as they uncover the skeleton of a giant dinosaur. (Extra points to the team that accurately identifies our find.)
• FEEDING FRENZY: When a T-Rex gets hungry you better stand back! Designed for students in the fourth grade and above, Feeding Time is a raucous, frenetic, slightly bloody (don’t worry, it’s fake) and very funny 20-minute event. Not for the faint of heart, but guaranteed to thrill the brave and curious alike.
• FOUND IN NEW JERSEY: Our state is the birthplace of “Bone Hunting” and the great dinosaur craze that continues to this day. Some of history’s most famous paleontological discoveries were made right here in New Jersey. Students learn the story of the Garden State’s official state dinosaur, Haddy the Hadrosaurus, the incredible dig site at Walter Kidde Dinosaur Park and fossil finds from Cape May to Ramapo. Actual fossils from around the State are used to illustrate the presentation.
• AVIAN DINOSAURS: Grab your binoculars and let’s go bird watching. The New Jersey Meadowlands is home to over 270 species of birds each one with a unique story to tell about the link between birds and dinosaurs. Students learn about the biological and behavioral similarities between the chirping songsters of today and the roaring giants of yesteryear. Topics include nesting, migration, warm versus cold bloodedness and even a “missing link” dinosaur with feathers!

Visit us online and sign up for our newsletter www.fieldstationdinosaurs.com
Be sure to like us on Facebook for regular paleontological updates http://www.facebook.com/FieldStationDinosaurs
If there is any further information you need from us, please email me or give me a call at 973.748.4561.
Thank you again!

Here’s a video of one of our dinosaurs.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vegJMqXqTEk&feature=youtu.be

Be the first to explore this amazing new exhibition. Call our Group Sales Hotline at 973.748.4317 or email groups@fieldstationdinosaurs.com
for more information or to make your reservation today.

PIANO LESSONS AT HOME

Focusing on the beginning and intermediate piano student.
Private lessons in your home.
Over 25 Years Experience
For further information, please call Toni R. at 973-960-9797
Morris County Area.

CHERRY HILL ROLLER SKATING-LAST SKATE THIS SEASON!

Come join us for 2 hours of fun, physical activity on April 20th.   The rink is open only for us.   The games are turned off, the music is family friendly.  Mom's get to socialize while kids skate with their friends.  Come meet home schoolers from every area........open to all.
 
Where: Cherry Hill Skate Center 664 Deer Road Cherry Hill
What: Private party 2 hours of skating with family friendly music
Who: Any home schooler please invite all put down your home school lists
When: 3rd Fridays (NOT December) from September-April 1-3PM
Cost:  $3 per skater (non skaters do not pay) Max $12 per family (cash please!)
skate rental available for $3 from rink (last year's price) either quads or inline

You may bring your own skates

Please no outside refreshments as the snack bar is open.  Consume your food before coming in.

---

PUBLICATION DATES

ENOCH of NJ e-Newsletter NEXT DEADLINE

Here are the deadlines for the upcoming ENOCH of NJ e-Newsletters.  The deadlines are firm and coordinated so that we can get you a fresh newsletter by the first of each month. Thanks.

May 2012:  Wednesday, April 25th
June 2012:  Friday, May 25th
July 2012:  No newsletter this month

Send all submissions to newsletter@enochnj.org.  This deadline serves the purpose of allowing time for editing and formatting the newsletter in order that time-sensitive information can be posted and mailed in a timely manner.

Final editing begins at the deadline.  Submissions prior to the deadline are always welcome and encouraged.
 
Posting and emailing is normally by the 1st of the month (except for the June issue).
 
Thanks for your help in getting the newsletter delivered promptly.

SUBSCRIBE TO ENOCH'S e-NEWSLETTER

Why and How to Subscribe
If you are not already subscribed to this newsletter, you can subscribe now!  If you would like the e-Newsletter delivered directly to your e-mailbox each month, go to Monthly Newsletter link on our website at www.enochnj.org.
 
Encourage your support group members to subscribe to the ENOCH email list!  Include this portion of our newsletter in your monthly hardcopy newsletter.  Get the word out that this newsletter is for them!   We use our subscription list to notify the homeschooling community of changes to our website, of the Convention and our Leadership Conference, alerts, and other important news.
 
All submissions desiring consideration for publication in the e-Newsletter should be sent to newsletter@enochnj.org.  Thanks.
 
ENOCH of NJ
Box 308
Atlantic Highlands NJ 07716
732.291.7800
office@enochnj.org
www.enochnj.org
 
Neither the ENOCH e-Newsletter, nor the Board of Directors for ENOCH New Jersey, endorses nor recommends any of the non-ENOCH programs, events, or opportunities listed. They are selectively provided as a service to those who wish to explore further. To remove your email from this mailing list, click here: http://www.enochnj.org/index.php?ACT=5&id=ZEbMxuzeJH