ENOCH of New Jersey e-Newsletter

March 2010

From the President’s Desk

Dear Friends,

I am sure that most of us enjoyed the Winter Olympics in Vancouver. I know my family did.  We all have our favorite sports to watch: short track speed skating, ski jumping, and figure skating just to name a few.  All the training, time, and sacrifices that these athletes make;  the early morning hours at the rink or weight room, being where the snow conditions are perfect - all this for a gold, silver or bronze medal, or maybe nothing at all.  A false start, a missed gate or maybe a triple toe loop that goes terribly wrong and it is over.   How many of these athletes miss out on life’s greatest opportunities with family and friends?

We as parents could do the same thing, not that we are training for the Olympics, though at times it may seem like it, but we get so busy we miss opportunities with our children.  Recently, one Saturday, with a long list of things to do, my wife suggested we go down to Sandy Hook with our dog and take a walk on the beach.  The weather was clear, a bit cold and windy, but we all agreed. After the early morning chores were done, off we went.  We had a great time! We collected sea shells, which the girls identified later with their shell book; went to the Sandy Hook Lighthouse; and stopped by some of the old gun batteries that guarded New York Harbor.  We even snuck in a few history lessons, (why were the guns there), nature lessons, (shells, why is the lighthouse so far from the end of Sandy Hook – hint migrating sand) and physics lessons, (how did they get those big guns up and down so fast).   Our to do list did not get done, but we had a great time as a family.  A few Saturdays from now we plan on going down to Brigantine Wildlife Refuge to go bird watching.  Explore the great outdoors as winter melts into spring, take time from your busy schedule and spend some time doing fun things with your family. 

MAKE THIS A MEMORABLE YEAR!!!
ENOCH is excited to announce our 20th Homeschool Convention. DON’T FORGET TO MARK YOU’RE CALENDARS! The convention is being held May 14th & 15th, at the New Jersey Expo Center in Edison.  Watch your mailbox for your brochure or go to www.enochnj.org for more information.   Early Bird Registration opens March 15th.

NEW THIS YEAR: Free admission for Parents of Preschoolers. Parents whose oldest child is age 5 or younger get in free if they register online. Part of ENOCH’s mission is to spread the word about the advantages of homeschooling. By offering free admission to Parents of Preschoolers, we’re hoping to make it easy for these young parents to explore the advantages of homeschooling. ENOCH needs your help! You are the ones who can get the word out to these families. Look around your neighborhoods and churches and be sure to invite families of young children to register for the convention – free of charge! David Hazell of My Father’s World will present a special series of workshops geared especially for these families.

Our ENOCH Board members will be contacting Support Group Leaders with packets including business card size invitations. Each family can get a handful from their Support Group Leader. They should look for families in their churches that would appreciate receiving an invitation to the convention.  A similar flier will be available on ENOCH's website.

In His Service,

Richard Millward
President, ENOCH of NJ

Encouraging Words From Homeschoolers Across the Nation

Homeschool Conferences
To Attend or Not to Attend--That is the Question

Marilyn Rockett


Ah, spring! Open the windows send the kids outside to play, and plan an outdoor field trip; the zoo is nice this time of year. It seems too soon to think about next year’s school supplies and curriculum. After all, you are still racing to finish the things you wanted to accomplish this year.

Nevertheless, conference season has arrived in many parts of the country. You tucked away the invitations to remind you to register, or you buried them in the pile of papers on your desk.

If you are newer to home schooling, you doubtless are eager to go. You cannot wait to finally see and touch the products you drooled over online or in the winter catalogs. You will hear, in person, the speaker you are convinced can teach you how to get the wash done and the math taught at the same time. You have vowed to do better next year! You and your husband can even enjoy a mini-vacation, if you are able to arrange childcare. In fact, you probably submitted your registration fee when the first invitation arrived.

What about attendance for those who are seasoned home schoolers? Over the years, you have gone to what seems like a zillion of these events—been there, done that, and you’ve earned the tee shirt! Why should you waste your time and money attending again? You have heard the speakers, attended the workshops, have already chosen your school material for next year, and you do not consider the conference a vacation if you must drag your reluctant husband along. Online ordering is so much easier.

Attend or Not

Why should any home educator—beginner or veteran—attend a conference? May we chat together over a cup of tea? You may have overlooked some particular rewards of being part of your local or state event.

Over the past twenty years, I have participated in every size conference imaginable as an attendee, a speaker, a vendor, and a conference planner. In the “old days,” we were fortunate when we could attend any conference anywhere that offered a handful of workshops. We met in churches, private schools, or any location in which we could find enough space to house a reasonable number of vendor tables and a few rooms for speakers.

Now, of course, there are countless material choices, numerous knowledgeable speakers, and in most cases, beautiful, spacious facilities. Home education conferences have arrived! So why do I hear that attendance is down in many states? Do we no longer need traditional home school conferences?

I propose that we do need them, perhaps currently more than previously, especially when we examine the important reasons for attending a conference. Yes, it is a wonderful place to see the particular curriculum you have only read about in a catalog. It is an ideal place to discover materials you might otherwise overlook if you did not attend. Yet, the foundational reasons to attend for all home schoolers are not necessarily utilitarian reasons involving curriculum choices.

Continuing Education

Have you read an article or a book or listened to a recording and wished you could ask the author or speaker a question to advance your understanding or clarify a point made in the material? You have that opportunity when you attend live workshops. Personal contact with veteran home school speakers and those who have expertise in specific areas opens the opportunity for new insights. Many home educators testify to an “aha” moment at a conference that revolutionized their teaching or child training.

The enthusiasm of the onsite speakers is infectious. Interaction with them can provide the boost you need to handle a particular challenge or give you encouragement to persevere. Most conference planners choose speakers carefully, giving you the best options for information and support. Call it continuing education for teachers; it affords the opportunity for you to listen, learn, and receive while you rest from giving continually to your family.

Renewing Perspective

Though you are solely responsible for your children’s education and training, you home educate as a member of a wider community of families who are pursuing similar opportunities for their children. The fellowship shared with others at a conference encourages and lifts you to new heights. As you stroll through the vendor halls, attend workshops, and chat with fellow home schoolers, you see anew why you started home educating in the first place. A conference introduces you to new friends whom the Lord brings into your life, and you connect again with those precious friends you and your family only have the opportunity to see infrequently. Other home schoolers’ lives and stories encourage you as you relate to their challenges and triumphs. The Lord refreshes your spirit and renews your heart for another season. The reminder that you are not alone, but part of a large community that shares this adventure with you, holds you steady through rough times.

If the conference uses teen volunteers, includes a graduation ceremony, or offers opportunities for older students or graduates to speak, you will be encouraged to see the fruit of home education in these exemplary youth. You look to the day, if your children are now young, when you will see that fruit in your parenting and educating efforts, and you are optimistic as you continue toward that goal for your own children.

One mother shared with me that she takes special notes at conferences. More than just recording the thoughts and ideas of the speakers, she writes in her notes’ margins the things that God may reveal to her about a particular student or curriculum choice. At times, she writes a question: “Would this be a good match for Andrew?” “Is this Susan’s need?” Other times it is a prayer: “Lord, help me do this with Melanie.” Additionally, she might record an idea: “Encourage Jeremy about his diligence.” This mom knows she is more open to the Lord’s leading and has a different perspective when she is concentrating and learning in a convention atmosphere away from the distractions and duties at home.

Giving Back

Although you receive multiple advantages when attending a conference, it is not just about receiving. Whether you are new to home education or a veteran of many years, you have something to share with fellow attendees as well. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 tells us, “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up” (NKJV). God will give you the opportunity to lift up a fellow parent through your actions and words. You may not even be aware you have helped someone along their path, but the Lord knows and uses your offerings in the hearts of others attending the conference.

Online options for information, workshops, and curriculum purchases are popular, and they are helpful and convenient in multiple ways. Still, it would be a shame for a generation of home schooling parents to lose personal touch with the heart and soul of home education by missing the affirmative atmosphere of a convention. You cannot replicate that on a computer screen.

To attend or not to attend? I would not miss the refreshment, fun, and fellowship for anything! Won’t you join me?

ENOCH Audio Lending Library

The Seven Secrets for Starting Little Ones Off Right

If you have little ones at home, Randi St. Denis can help you know what you can be doing now to help them begin their homeschooling journey with a strong foundation. 

The ENOCH Audio Lending Library has over 100 recordings that you can borrow, for free.  Go to www.enochnj.org and follow the prompts for the Audio Lending Library to browse the selections.  To request The Seven Secrets for Starting Little Ones Off Right, ask for Recording #129.

ENOCH EVENTS

ENOCH’s 20th Annual Homeschool Convention  - Bring the Whole Family!

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

Dads – Steve Maxwell, father of eight will be presenting workshops that will equip dad to lead his family well.  Some of the workshop titles include: Manager of His Home ; Preparing Sons to Provide for a Single-Income Family; and Family Bible Time - Here's How Guaranteed.

Moms – Rebecca Powell addresses the issue of Mommy Burnout.  Teri Maxwell shares from her own homeschool journey about how to Homeschool with a Meek and Quiet Spirit

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 – Workshop titles for parents of teens include: The High-School Transcript: It’s Easier Than You Think; Reaching the Heart of Your Teen: Making the Bible Real, Risky and Relevant; and Bachelor's Degree by 18: What Colleges Don't Tell You.

Parents of Young Children – David Hazell, father of 6, will present 4 special sessions on parenting young children.  His focus will be on raising children biblically and passing on a Christian legacy to your children’s children.
Teens – On Saturday, there is an all-day program for teens.  “Culture Shock” presented by Generations of Virtue is an interactive program that will challenge your teens to deepen their convictions to live a life pleasing to God.

Children Ages 4-12 – Children’s Program presented by Historical Happenings and Mad Science.  Each 2-hour session is designed to keep your child engaged.  The time will fly for them as history and science become alive before their eyes! Sign up for as many 2-hour sessions as you like.  There are 5 sessions in total and each one is different!

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.

All convention news and details will be available at www.enochnj.org by Mar. 15.  Register by Apr. 30 to save money!

PROMOTE YOUR EVENT, CLUB OR ACTIVITY AT THE CONVENTION

Since ENOCH’s mission is to promote homeschooling in New Jersey and do whatever we can to equip homeschooling families, we have a feature in our Exhibit Hall.  Booth space is available for homeschoolers to display and/or promote their homeschool events, clubs and activities.

If you organize a science fair, spelling bee, drama club, orchestra, choir, sports league, robotics team, model rocket club, etc., this is your chance to get the word out to NJ Homeschoolers!

If you have an event, club or activity that is open to new members, you can reserve a booth at the convention for only $75.  If your club is filled to capacity but you would like to help other homeschoolers start a club like yours, you would also qualify for this type of booth. 

For those clubs who do not have the funds or manpower to rent booth space, we have an alternative that is FREE.  ENOCH is providing a double booth space right near the front entrance.  Your event, club or activity can reserve a 2-hour slot at this booth.  You can set up a display or plan a presentation that can take place during your 2-hour slot.

Homeschoolers, if you’ve wondered which activities will be a good fit for your family, be sure to check the schedule of events as you enter the Convention. 

For those who organize events, clubs and activities, ENOCH thanks you for how you serve the homeschool community.  We are glad to partner with you to make your events accessible to even more homeschoolers!  If you think you might be interested in this offer, email conventioncoordinator@enochnj.org  Deadline is April 30.

ENOCH of NJ Fifth Annual Essay Contest

Topic:  What will you be doing when you are 25 years old?

Awards:
  6 to 10 years: $75.00
 11 to 13 years: $100.00
 14 to 18 years: Special Priize this year, free admission to World View Academy

The winning essays will appear in future ENOCH E-Newsletters and on the
ENOCH website.

Eligibility: Must be a child living in New Jersey between the ages of
6 and 18 who is being home educated when writing the essay. Children of
current or former ENOCH Board members are not eligible.

Judgment Criteria: Focus on assigned topic, Theme, Presentation,
Creativity, Christian world view and Message.

Deadline: Must be received by end of day – Friday, April 16, 2009

How to submit: All essays must be emailed in plain text in the body of
an email to contest@enochnj.org
The Subject of the email should be “ENOCH Essay Contest”. Prior to the
actual essay please include the following information:

* Student’s first and last name
* Parent’s first and last name
* Family’s mailing address
* Family’s telephone number
* Child’s birth month and year

Essays should not be submitted as an attachment to the email, as we
may not be able to open attachments.  If you do send as an attachment and we cannot open it, we will not attempt to contact you.   Plain text means: no italicizing, no underlining, no bolding, no mixing of fonts and no graphics.

Essays will not be accepted by any other means such as mail or
direct delivery.

Format: Essay written by a single author. Other literary forms of
communication such as poems are not acceptable. Group submissions are
not acceptable.

Length: There is no minimum length, but a length should be chosen to
age appropriately and adequately answer the topic question. The
following also apply.

 6 to 10 years: 800 word maximum
 11 to 13 years: 1200 word maximum
 14 to 18 years: 1500 word maximum

Winner Notification: Winners will be notified by email on or before
ENOCH’s Annual Homeschool Convention May 14 & 15, 2010.

ENOCH is now on Facebook!

If you have Facebook, be sure to look for the ENOCH of New Jersey page.  We are trying to get the word out. Tell every homeschooler you know. Become a fan. ENOCH will have links, announcements, stories, etc. that will be posted to help you.

HSLDA updates/contests

HSLDA Poetry Contest 2010   

Submission Dates: May 1 through June 1 2010!                                         
Entries received before May 1 or postmarked after June 1 will be sent back or discarded.
What       
Category 1:     Form: Ballad      Theme: Humility
Category 2:    Form: Blank Verse Dramatic Monologue      Theme: Mercy
Category 3:      Form: Heroic Couplet      Theme: Justice
We try to choose themes that will leave a lot of room for students’ imagination and interpretation, without us dictating the response. We want students to come up with their own ideas of what best portrays the given quote, without us dictating the response.
Students do not have to actually include the theme word in their poem. The words are meant to be the inspiration and theme behind whatever images or story the students decide to portray.
We hope that students will come up with many imaginative ideas to fit the theme. Our judges love it when a student comes up with something they had not thought of before.
Who
Category 1: Homeschoolers* ages 7 to 10 as of May 1, 2010.
Category 2: Homeschoolers* ages 11 to 14 as of May 1, 2010.
Category 3: Homeschoolers* ages 15 to 19 as of May 1, 2010.
For more information on the Poetry Contest visit:  http://www.hslda.org/Contests/Poetry/2010/2010rules.asp

Third Annual HSLDA High School Symposium

Save the date!

Plans are now underway for the third annual HSLDA High School Symposium, Teaching High School at Home: The Basics and Beyond. We invite you and your friends to join us in Purcellville, VA, on Friday, April 9, 2010, from 8:15 a.m.–4:15 p.m.
The symposium will include three general sessions including: Developing a Plan for High School, Important Pit Stops During High School, and 10 Reasons to Homeschool Teens.
In addition, six breakout sessions will be offered, and you may choose two to attend:

    * Time Management for Busy Moms,
    * High School Transcript Clinic,
    * Parental Rights Amendment,
    * Praying Your Way through the Home School Years,
    * Preparing Your Teen for College Life,
    * Exploring Career Paths for Your Teens (In this seminar, five professionals from HSLDA will provide you with career information to pass on to your teens.)

New at this year’s symposium is the addition of a Generation Joshua track specifically for teens ages 13–19.
Registration is now open and will continue until March 27, 2010, or until capacity is reached.
Hoping to see you on April 9, 2010!

OTHER EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES

The Harlem Globetrotters

My name is Cyndee Young and I am handling the group sales for the Harlem Globetrotters who are coming to Toms River on March 2 and Lincroft on March 16-17.   I have specially priced discount ticket flyers – that I would like to be able to get distributed to your students and families.  The Harlem Globetrotters, with their amazing ball handling wizardry, is a perfect entertainment choice for your families.  This is a great field trip idea!
I would enjoy talking to you about my offer.  I would appreciate the opportunity to get the word out about our great discount program.  If you prefer to organize and bring your group so that you all sit together, I can reserve a block of seats for you.
This discount also could be set up as a fundraiser for your program, and I would be happy to discuss how that works as well.  We do have some options for a limited number of kids to be a part of the game and that is tied into a minimum ticket purchase.  Kids could sit on the bench with the Globetrotters while they practice or give them the High 5 when they take to the court after halftime.  .  If you have a cheerleading group, or a gymnastics or martial arts group in your midst, there are opportunities for them to perform at the game as well.  These options are based on availability at the time we set up your program.
I am very interested in talking to you and look forward to hearing from you soon.  For further information please contact: Cyndee Young, Harlem Globetrotters at (330) 262-9790 or EMAIL: cygroups@sssnet.com, EMAIL: young@harlemglobetrotters.com

Thanks in advance for your interest.

Service Opportunity

Once again, homeschooled students from across the region (ME, VT, CT, RI, MA, PA, NY and NJ) will be gathering together to practice their communication skills including critical analysis, persuasion, defending the Christian faith, and story-telling. Our tournament runs March 4 - 6, 2010 at the Foundation for Economic Education in Irvington-on-Hudson (Tarrytown), NY.

We seek adults who can commit 2 1/2 - 3 hours who will judge students on their communication skills. We'll provide a short orientation before the 1 1/2 hour round begins and provide a quiet place to fill out your ballot afterwards. Complimentary delicious meals in a 19th century mansion will also be included!

For more information, please contact Eunice Au at manusoratorum@gmail.com or visit our website https://freedom2010.homeschooldebate.net/

Share the excitement of seeing and training our future leaders!

Sahara Sam’s Oasis Indoor Water Park

EXCLUSIVE HOMESCHOOL TIME!

There's record snow outside but it's still 84 degrees inside of Sahara Sam’s Oasis Indoor Water Park!

This is a reminder that Sahara Sam's is offering EXCLUSIVE HOMESCHOOL TIME!

Thursday, March 11 from 11am-1pm (stay until we close at 8:30PM)

Join us for exclusive HOMESCHOOL water park time and stay and play for the rest of the day!

Open all year, Sahara Sam’s Oasis Indoor Water Park guests enjoy 84 degrees of low humidity weather in every season.   Sahara Sam’s features 58,000 square feet of exhilarating water rides and attractions and 3,000 square feet of state-of-the-art arcade fun.

Regular admission:  $29.95 per person +tax                    
HOMESCHOOL PRICE:  $17.95 per person+tax (2 and under FREE)*

*Receive one complimentary spectator/non-swimmer admission with the purchase of a homeschool admission

Purchase and print your discounted e-tickets at home, please visit

https://tickets.saharasams.com

Store Name/Password: homeschoolfun@1
OR  
Purchase your ticket on-site at admissions –You will need a copy of this article to BRING WITH YOU. 

You do not need to make group reservations.  Please be sure to tell your Homeschool Group and Friends.
Any questions? Please email Beth at btwisler@saharasams.com

See you for our splash-tastic homeschool event!

March Madness Field Trip Deals at The Franklin Institute!

  The Franklin Institute  Special Offer for Your Group. Plan Your Trip Today!

The Giant Heart, Space Command, The Franklin Air Show, Fels Planetarium, Body Worlds 2 & The Brain

OFFER EXTENDED!
Visit in March and take advantage of our March Madness Buy 1, Get 1 Free Special Offer!
NEW—BONUS OFFER FOR SPECIAL WEEKS!

Now's your chance to explore all your favorite museum exhibits like The Giant Heart and Amazing Machine at this season's lowest cost. Plus, you can even enhance your visit with a theater program or live science show! Your students can also get one last eye-opening look at BODY WORLDS 2 & The Brain before it leaves on April 18, 2010.

Offer Details:

    * Visits must take place between February 27th and April 9, 2010.
    * Maximum of 50 free tickets per visit will be given. (With the purchase of at least 50 tickets.)
    * Discount Offer applies to General Admission only.
    * Additional Savings available for BODY WORLDS 2, Experiential Package and Theater Visits. Call for Details!
    * BONUS OFFER: Visit between February 27th and March 19th and receive a Planetarium Show FREE!

ACT NOW-Contact Group Sales at 1.800.285.0684 and mention code FSGEB210.

We look forward to seeing you here!

30% Discount During Borders Educator Appreciation Week!

Current and retired educators save on purchases for personal of classroom use.

 A great 30% discount off the list price of almost everything in-store*, networking opportunities, and giveaways— this and much more await educators during Educator Appreciation Week, March 19 - 27 at Borders.

Borders will honor current and retired teachers, librarians, homeschoolers, school administrators and daycare facilitators with 30% off the list price of nearly everything in stores including books, teaching resources and materials, music, movies, educational toys and games, gifts and stationery and even Seattle’s Best Coffee café products. To take advantage of the 30% discount, educators need only present proof of educator status, which can be a paystub or an identification card with a current date. Borders recently increased its everyday classroom discount to 25% off classroom purchases, but the special 30% discount during Educator Appreciation Week can be applied toward classroom purchases as well as items for personal enjoyment.

Special Reception

Saturday, March 20, 2:00 – 6:00 PM

Note: Receptions not held at Borders Express or Waldenbooks

Daily Inspiration

Borders has created an online resource trove at www.borders.com/teaching dedicated to meeting the professional needs of educators. The site is rich with expert recommendations for classroom materials for all stages of learning and development as well as enriching features, such as the Teaching Zone Video Channel where educators can garner a daily dose of heartwarming inspiration from such bestselling authors as Pat Conroy and Kate DiCamillo, who talk about the importance of learning and the critical roles teachers played in their lives. The site also includes “postcards to inspire,” touching e-messages that can be quickly and easily sent to special teachers — just because.

In addition, Borders has also created the “Borders Teaching Zone” Facebook® page where educators can muse about the latest developments in the world of education, learn about hot new and upcoming titles and get the lowdown on upcoming events at Borders.

*Certain exclusions apply – check with store for details

Homeschool Day at Six Flags!

Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, NJ is excited to present an exclusive event on May 6 - Homeschool Day!

Thursday, May 6, 2010 - Homeschoolers, their family and friends are invited to a Six Flags EXCLUSIVE EDUCATION DAY where the theme park is open only to students.  Homeschoolers will enjoy EXCLUSIVE time in the Wild Safari, at the Exploration Station, at a Special Dolphin Discovery presentation and in a private catering area for the all-you-can-eat buffet! Homeschoolers may also participate in Business & Marketing Education Day, the Business & Marketing Challenge, the all new Career Day and the LearnDoEarn Scavenger Hunt!   

Please feel free to contact me should you have any questions or would like a few copies of our order forms mailed directly to your organization!

Visit sixflags.com/greatadventure for more details and to download an order form today!
For More information contact:
Special Events & Promotions Coordinator, Six Flags Great Adventure
Phone:  732-928-2000  ext. 2828
E-mail:  jEdelbach@SFTP.com
www.sixflags.com

Hope to see you at the park!

TCHSA Sports News

Off the Basketball Court and onto the Baseball Field

TCHSA has just wrapped up another successful basketball season.  At the same time, registration and indoor practice is underway for the baseball/softball season.  So far, it looks like there are enough participants for the following teams:
Varsity Boys Baseball – this team is for competitive players, grades 9-12.  There are about 20 games scheduled between March 15 and May 15.  These games are played against private schools.  The team will wrap up the season with a low-cost trip to Indiana, to participate in the National Homeschool Baseball Championship Tournament, over Memorial Day weekend.  Cost for participation is between $150-$350. (The more successful the fundraising attempts are, the lower the overall cost will be.)  For more details or to sign up, contact Ed Miller at  Ed@ivcfnynj.org
Middle School/JV Boys Baseball – this team is for players, grades 5-8 or 9.  If you love baseball and might want to play on the Varsity Team in the future, this is your chance to get involved now.  The game schedule is under construction now.  There is even a possibility that some of the older players will have a chance to try their skills in some of the Varsity games.  Cost is about $100-$200 per player. (Cost depends on how many games are played, due to umpire fees.)  For more details or to sign up, contact John Williams at jlsafr@yahoo.com
Varsity Girls Softball – this team is for girls, grades 8-12.  The girls will have a full schedule of games, similar to the Boy’s Varsity Team.  This team competes against Christian and other Private School Teams in the area.  Cost is between $150-$250 per player. (Cost depends on how many games are played, due to umpire fees.)  For more details or to sign up, contact Ed Howell at tchsafalcons@yahoo.com
Many thanks to Ed Howell, Athletic Director and President of TCHSA.  It is his efforts that allow homeschooling families an opportunity to enter the competitive sports arena!

HORSEBACK RIDING LESSONS

 

Want something new for your Phys Ed classes?  We are a Christian family who owns a horse farm in Central NJ, (at 850 Monmouth Road - on Route 537 - just down the road from Six Flags Great Adventure, right off Rt 195) and we would love to welcome homeschooling families.  In past years, we homeschooled our own children who are now in college, and we are aware of the challenges facing homeschooling parents to find good choices for activities.  Our facility has a large indoor arena (80X200), with full jump course, to facilitate all-weather riding with minimal cancellations due to weather.   We have a nice variety of horses and ponies for lessons and pony rides.  In addition to riding lessons, our program offers a full equestrian science education program offered through 4H, that includes classroom lessons on the ground (unmounted) as well as full instruction in the saddle (mounted).  Our instructor is also experienced in teaching special needs riders (Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, ADD, ADHD).  Horseback riding lessons available to all homeschooling families any day of the week, at discounted rates.  Groups (such as Brownies, Cub Scouts, Girls Scouts, and Boys Scouts) welcome! 
Semi-Private: $25.00 per student (limit 4 per lesson)
Semi-Private Lesson Package Special-10 lessons $225.00 for semi-private (Buy 9, get one free)
Private:  $35.00 per hour
Private Lesson Package Special-10 lessons $315.00 for private (Buy 9, get one free)
4H Membership:  Free
Call for Special Group Rates
 
Just mention your membership in Enoch and this ad when calling to receive the discounted rates. Call Regina for available times and appointments, (856)252-7075.  www.Freedomfarmusa.com.
Where the Spirit of the Lord is there is freedom.

Roller Skating

Roller skating on the third Friday on the month has been one of the longest running activities in the area.  We meet at Cherry Hill Roller skating rink from 1-3pm.  The music is provided by myself and is family friendly.  Attendance has been great and we have offered free admission twice so far this year.  Since the refreshment stand is open no outside food is allowed.
http://www.palacerollerskatingcenter.com/cherryhill/

This is a great place to meet new homeschool friends and meet up with those you know.  It is open to any and all home schoolers in the area not any one support group.  The remaining dates for the 2009-2010 school year are:
March  19 and April  16

Admission is $3 per skater and rentals are and additional $3 for in line or quads. 

For those of you who like to plan ahead I have just booked the following dates for the 2010-2011 school year:

Friday, September 17
Friday, October 15
Friday, November 18
Friday, January 21
Friday,  February 18
Friday, March 18
Friday, April 15

All dates are 3rd Fridays and it is always 1-3PM.
Any questions email Linda Nowak  at  homeschoolbus@gmail.com

2010 Spring Piano Festival / Workshop

COME & TUNE UP FOR THE 2010 Spring SJMTA & NJMTA events!!

This is a non-competitive program open to students of all ages which provides musical growth through evaluation and encouragement.  The teacher and /or parents are invited to attend the private audition; however, since space is limited we suggest no more than two persons attend the audition with the student.

Awards: Both written and verbal comments will be given.  Students receiving an “Excellent” rating will be awarded a certificate and Gold Seal.  A “Very Good” will be awarded a certificate with a Silver Seal.  The certificates and the written evaluations will be mailed to the teachers.
Audition Date: Saturday, May 8, 2009 – Beginning at 1 P.M.
and Location:  Rowan University:  Wilson Hall, Room 228; Glassboro, NJ
Repertoire:    Student must perform two memorized pieces of contrasting styles.  Pieces may be by the same composer as long as they are of contrasting styles.  Pieces must be a minimum of 16 measures in length.
How to Enter:  Fill out the entry forms available by contacting David Sallard (dsallard@yahoo.com).  David will also provide more information regarding fees for this workshop. 

Registration Deadline:  ASAP! Postmarked no later than: April 17, 2010.  Entries mailed after this date may be returned.

ANNOUNCING SOUTH JERSEY HOMESCHOOL CHOIR

SEMESTER TWO Directed by Renee Bussey BA, BS MA

SPRING REPERTOIRE will feature a wide variety of musical styles from many times and cultures and the music of Disney & MGM!

REHEARSALS -TUESDAY NIGHTS BEGINNING
MARCH 2, 2010
COME ALIVE CHURCH
240 Old Marlton Pike
Medford, NJ 08055
REHEARSAL TIMES
7:00 PM - 8:15 PM CHOIR (ALL VOICES)
8:25 PM - 9:15 PM ENSEMBLE (SELECTED VOICES)

SPRING CONCERT MAY 25, 2010

Participants are Homeschool students in grades 4 - 12
(mature 2nd  & 3rd graders with an interest in music)
Auditions will be held on MARCH 2ND, 6:00 PM for new singers only.
Auditions are for placement only.
COST
$100 per student ***$50 for siblings *** $200 maximum per family
PAYMENT DUE at First Rehearsal or Audition
(Checks Payable to Gwendolyn R. Bussey)
(609) 230-1952

Homeschool Used Curriculum Fair/Bake Sale – Cornerstone Homeschool Education Group

Thursday, April 22nd.  Homeschool Used Curriculum Fair/Bake Sale – Cornerstone Homeschool Education Group is offering their annual used curriculum sale.  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 teacher friends!!  This will not be a "yard sale" but rather an "educational items" sale.  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).  Please, NO yard sale items.
Items made by homeschooled children can also be sold - i.e. potholders, scarves, refrigerator magnets, etc.  This is a nice way to sell books/curriculum you are finished with and purchase needed items at the same time!  Last year we had a great turnout.  There were many wonderful books and materials available for sale at fantastic prices.  We are looking forward to more of the same this year!
 
This event is being held on Thursday, April 22nd at Cornerstone Calvary Chapel, 6550 Route 9 South, Howell, NJ.  It starts at 7 PM.  Sellers - please arrive at 6 pm for set-up. If you are planning on selling at the fair please RSVP on the website to reserve a table by Monday, April 19th.  The website is www.homeschool-life.com/nj/cheg.  This event is free.

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.

April 2010 issue: Thursday, March 25th
May 2010 issue: Sunday, April 25th
June2010 issue:  Tuesday, May 25th

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.