ENOCH of NJ: Education Network of Christian Homeschoolers of New Jersey

ENOCH of New Jersey e-Newsletter

November 2009

From the President’s Desk

Dear Friends,

It’s hard to believe that it is already November!  We have so many things to be thankful for: family, friends, God’s great love and mercy toward us, answered prayer and even unanswered prayer.  The list goes on and on.  This coming month, write down one thing you are thankful for and then share those blessings at your table on Thanksgiving Day. Thank God for all His abundant blessings toward us.

Another thing that would be good for us to do as homeschool families on Veteran’s Day is to thank at least one veteran for his or her service to our country.  It could be something as simple as giving a card or letter or, for the younger ones, making a picture for one veteran you know; cooking a meal for his or her family, especially if you know that the family maybe struggling; raking leaves or doing yard work for one who may not be able to do that anymore; getting a group together and singing at a veteran’s retirement home; or just visiting with them and asking them questions about when they served, (this one could be worked into a writing assignment).  I know that there is not much time to plan something, but you can be creative.  Show a veteran that someone is grateful for the sacrifice they made.

As a reminder, please take the time to vote. It is a great privilege that we have here in the United States - to vote for our local, state and national leaders.  Take full advantage of this opportunity.   While our family was away at the HSLDA Leadership Conference we heard several stories of how an election was won by one or two votes.  YES your vote counts, so don’t forget to vote.

My prayer for you and your family is that you have a very blessed Thanksgiving this year.

In His Service,
Richard Millward
President

Encouraging Words

A longtime champion of homeschooling rights around the globe, Home School Legal Defense Association Senior Counsel and Director of State and International Relations Christopher J. Klicka was called home by his Lord on October 12, 2009, following a 15-year battle with multiple sclerosis. An attorney, spokesman, lobbyist, and homeschooling husband and father, Chris is survived by his wife, Tracy, and their seven children.

TOP 10 CHARACTER TIPS

By Chris Klicka

During the presidency of Bill Clinton, a slogan was oft repeated: "character counts." Deep down we all know that one's character is not simply a "personal thing" but it affects his whole being and affects his work and every area of his life.

The importance of character training in our children is paramount. As parents, we cannot shirk our duty before God, for it states in Ephesians 6:4: "Fathers, provoke not your children to wrath, but bring them up in the nurture and the admonition of the Lord." Our children need to be taught to develop a Christian relationship with Jesus Christ. Simultaneously, we need to teach them to love God with all their heart, all their soul, and all their mind, because this is the greatest and foremost commandment. I John says that if we love God, we keep his commandments.

There is no doubt that character training is a vital aspect of our home schooling. The Bible teaches us in Proverbs 22:15 that, "Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child." In the book of Romans, it's made crystal clear that "all have sinned and come short of the glory of God." Therefore, it is necessary to train our children diligently. This requires discipline and much repetition to instill in our children a proper godly character which will benefit them and those around them for their whole lives.

As a father of seven children, presently from the ages of 4 to 14, I've seen how essential strong character training is for our children's lives and for those around them. Here are ten practical tips that I have compiled that may help you build good character in your children.

1. Read and Teach the Bible

The laws of our country and the true moral laws throughout the world have their origin in the Word of God. By the Word of God we can learn the difference between right and wrong. Training our children to read and love the Word of God will be the single strongest ingredient to building good character.

In our family I have found that following and obeying Deuteronomy 6 is the best and most successful way to teach my children the Bible and good character. This passage states that we are to teach God's commandments and principles to our children all the time so that in verse 2, "they might fear the Lord" and keep his commandments. In verse 6 it states that these commandments must be "in our heart" and furthermore, we must "teach them diligently" to our children virtually all the time. The passage explains that we need to teach these principles to our children when we "sit in our house and when we walk by the way and when we lie down and when we rise up." We must also tie them to our foreheads and our wrists and write them on the doorposts of our house.

When I rise up, I spend time teaching each of my children individually the Word of God. Before I lie down, I have family devotions, where we corporately worship God and I train my children in his principles which are intricately involved in forming their permanent character and transforming their heart. As my wife and I go through each day, we train our children all along the way through homeschooling. On a regular basis I bring different children to work where I have opportunity to instill the Word of God to build their character as we commute and spend time together at the office. Also, we involve our children in the different tasks and errands that we run so we have more time to teach them when we "walk by the way."

We literally post the Word of God on our doorposts. On each entrance to each room is a small card with a calligraphy Bible verse so that the Word of God is before our children at all times. They see us not only teach them but live the Word and tell others about the Word as we carry it around with us in the form of Bibles and tracts in our pockets and purses.

Scripture says the Word will not return void. As you saturate your children with the Word of God, God will have his purpose done through the application and teaching of his Word. Scripture also says that He gives the increase. Our task is to plant and water, but ultimately, He is the guarantor of the results - we're just called to be faithful.

2. Create a "Chore Chart"

Another excellent way to build character is to create a "chore chart." We create a graph with each of our seven children's names and then a list of various chores for each day of the week. From age 4 to 14, they all have to participate in the tasks of keeping the household. This helps them develop a sense of responsibility and a habit for doing these tasks. As this habit forms, this will serve them lifelong.

It is amazing how small children who are only five or six years old can empty dishwashers, sweep floors, wipe off tables, clean their rooms, make their beds, clean up the playroom, and do various tasks throughout the day for their mom. We sometimes do not realize how capable our children are and we tend to want to do everything for them because we can do it faster and better. We need to put aside those thoughts and focus on the character that is forming early with our children and help them to be responsible at an early age. As the Scriptures say, as we're faithful in little things, God will give us greater responsibility. We need to slowly increase the responsibility with our children so that they're ever growing in their ability and desire to do good deeds.

3. Unplug the Television

If you truly want to instill good character in your children, turn off your television. In our modern times, the television has steadily slid into immorality and stupidity. A large portion of what we watch on television is a waste of time at best and damaging to our character and souls at worst. Unmonitored television is a character destroyer.

Ten years ago we unplugged the cable television and have never regretted it since. The amount of family time, spiritual growth, strong character and serving one another has increased and grown in a multitude of ways since we've shut off the television.

The only way that the television media can be used to build character is through careful selection by the parents of various videos and movies that have a clear lesson and that protect our children's minds and hearts from the worldliness in our culture. We can place at the feet of television much of the destruction of the moral fabric of our nation.

4. Teach Lessons from Hardships

Have your children observe and be aware of the difficulties and hardships that you and others around you face so that they will realize that this is part of life. It is terrible to see a child who has been shielded from all the hurts and suffering and persecution in the world to then personally face such problems as an adult and have his faith shattered. As my wife struggles with the incurable disease of ulcerative colitis and I with multiple sclerosis, we make sure our children understand that we still have joy. We explain that God gives and takes away and that we need to accept both good and ill from his hand, knowing that all things work together for good for those who love him and who are called according to his purpose. We emphasize an eternal perspective in our home so that our children realize that this earth is just a temporary place where they need to fulfill the mission that God has given them for their lives, but they can't be too attached to it. As our children form this eternal perspective, they can be honest, gentle, kind, faithful, have self control, and many of the fruits of the Spirit, regardless of the circumstances they find themselves in.
We also spend regular time explaining the suffering that the persecuted church is going through around the world so the children will realize that Christians do face many tribulations as the Scriptures say, but that God is with them and will comfort them, and will ultimately deliver them - if not in this world, then in Heaven for eternity where there will be no more tears and no more sorrows. I recommend Voice of the Martyrs newsletters (Bartlesville, Oklahoma, (918) 337-8015, http://www.persecution.com) as on of the best sources of information on the persecuted church. The ministry was established in 1967.

5. Read Biographies

Read biographies of Christians to your children. We have found that a book called Courageous Christians: Devotional Stories for Family Reading, (Moody Press; Chicago, IL, 2000), which has over 70 short stories of strong Christians of the past and present, is a wonderful and powerful tool for giving examples to our children of those who overcame. As we study the men and women of the past and present we explain all the many character traits that made these people what they were and how God was with them every step of the way and empowered them through difficult circumstances and seemingly insurmountable obstacles. This "great cloud of witnesses" is an example to our children and gives them heroes and heroines to imitate as far as they in their lives imitated Jesus Christ.

6. Teach Proverbs

Another way to instill character in our children is to specifically teach the book of Proverbs. In Barbara Decker's book Proverbs for Parenting: A Topical Guide for Child Raising from the Book of Proverbs, the book of Proverbs is arranged according to subject matter. This is an excellent way to teach our children character traits of truthfulness, diligence, faithfulness, good business practice, service, love, courage, and virtually every important Godly character trait. If you are able to do nothing else on this list but teach your children Proverbs, you will build good character in their lives as they internalize these principles. Memorization and repetition is key in this process to burn these truths into our children's consciences so that if they grow up and turn away from God, the Word of God and Proverbs will be so ingrained in their hearts and minds that they'll turn back one day.

7. Mission Trips

Go with your children on a mission trip. There are many opportunities in our churches today for taking one to two week mission trips. This is an awesome way to have a hands-on experience in building character. It teaches our older children about the needs of the world. It helps them appreciate and be thankful for all the many blessings they have in the United States. These mission trips can be in the form of going to Mexico or some other poor country to minister in God's name in practical ways such as building, painting, cleaning, dispensing medicine, et cetera. Other mission trips can be your own family vacation where you take time to pass out tracts to those you meet and talk to them about the Lord. For your children to see your faith in action helps them to realize that your faith is real and the message of your teaching is real and practical.

We sent our daughter Bethany with some good friends from our church on a mission trip and she had her eyes opened with a new appreciation for the blessings that God has given her in her life. Most importantly, she has realized the incredible blessing of eternal life and she has developed a heart and desire to return to the mission field one day.

8. Bring Your Children to Work

As fathers, we have learned many of the important character traits to be good and faithful employees. Possibly we have started our own business. Either way, bringing our children to work is a tremendous opportunity to teach our children many character traits involved in being a faithful employee or good employer. Explaining to our children the many responsibilities in the workplace helps them to develop a vision for the future for themselves. It gives them purpose for the training that they're undergoing at the moment. They begin to realize the importance of math as they see its application in the field of engineering or carpentry or accounting. They begin to understand why their mom is so persistent in teaching them these concepts and this knowledge repeatedly. They have their eyes opened to what is necessary to provide for a family or for their own sustenance. They can develop a solid work ethic as they observe you and others in the workplace. Be sure to take time to point out what's around them so that your children can learn. When I take my children to the office they spend a certain amount of time doing their homeschooling but then I also explain to them what I'm doing and why and what others are doing around us.

Moms can bring the children to the store with her to help them understand and develop the character traits of frugality and wisdom to know what to buy and what to avoid. Moms can include their children in understanding what paying bills is all about and show them the need for filing and organizing. Children will develop a vision to be successful in this life.

9. Be Involved in Ministries

Assist neighbors and be involved with ministries. Youth have much time on their hands. They usually look for a good time. As a result, they don't redeem the time and waste much of it. An old adage says that "an idle mind is the devil's workplace." Keeping our children involved in serving and reaching out to others is an important way to keep them busy while building strong inner character traits.

Across the street we have a lady who has had deaths in her family and suffers from cancer. My children go over there periodically to minister to her and to bring her baked goods. A family needed help with painting and one of my daughters was able to assist in preparing the house for their move.

Having our children involved in Awana and Vacation Bible School to assist with the younger children has proven to be very valuable in teaching them to die to themselves and to give freely and without expectation of reward. No doubt you could think of a multitude of ministries and ways you can touch those within your reach. In the process, you'll be teaching your children how to truly love their neighbors.

10. One-on-On Training

Never forget the importance of individual one-on-one time in training your children and building up their character. You need to make sure you shepherd their hearts. Spend time asking them questions about how they feel about the tasks that are under their responsibility. Find out if they feel overwhelmed or bored. Discover their struggles and help them by applying the Word of God. Know your children so that you can determine if the character training is being internalized or is simply an external obedience. If it is simply external, as soon as they're out of the household the world will mold them and shape them into its image.

Homeschooling teaches what really matters. These character traits you instill in your children will be for their lifelong benefit and if they internalize them in the form of a relationship to Jesus Christ, where they want to glorify him in all that they say and do, this character training will carry into eternity so that they can be together with you in Heaven.

A Watchful Eye on NJ Legislation

By Mark August

A bit over a year ago, homeschoolers in NJ came under a new legislative threat in the form of Assembly Bill A3123, which would have severely impacted our freedom to homeschool without significant government interference.  Several weeks later a task force representing key state level homeschool organizations in New Jersey reported that the bill was likely to remain unheard in the Assembly Education Committee.  As of today, the status of the bill has remained unchanged.
We remain vigilant regarding any action on this bill.  There are times during the year when we become extra-vigilant.  An example would be a scheduled Education Committee hearing.  A quick look at the hearing agenda lets us know whether the bill is seeing any action.  We are approaching the end of the legislative calendar this coming January.  Interestingly, unlike most other States in the nation we also have a major election this November, when we elect our governor.  The period between the election in early November and the end of the legislative calendar is sometimes labeled a “lame duck session.”  

The name “lame duck” comes originally from stock markets of the 18th century, where also comes more familiar terms of “bull” and “bear”.  Lame Duck then referred to investors who had suffered a loss and could no longer pay their debts.  No longer used much in the financial world, this term now refers to a time when politicians have just passed an election, and because of the outcome, their days in office are limited.   The term does not necessarily mean that a politician has lost an election however, as a second term President of our country is often referred to as a Lame Duck – because he cannot be elected to another term following the current one.  

The Lame duck session coming up in our legislature is a time when any outgoing individual or group may want to push for action on some bill that is unlikely to garner support after the change of power takes place.   This sort of flurry of legislative activity has been observed over the years, so this is a time when we will be watching our lawmakers a little more closely.  There is really no reason to be alarmed at this point; the status of A3123 is not likely to change in the coming few months.  However, since there may be increased activity in Trenton during those months, this Lame Duck session would be a time to make sure you check your email once a day – just in case some threat to our freedoms does emerge and calls for action are relayed.

Hopefully you also will be reading this message just prior to the election on November 3.  If so, may I add that each and every one of you should be exercising your right to vote.   Please take the time to choose a candidate thoughtfully and prayerfully – then make your way to the polling station and actually take advantage of a blessing we have in our country of having a say in who will govern us.

NEW! ENOCH on FACEBOOK

If you have Facebook, be sure to look for 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.  Click here if you are a Facebook member: http://www.facebook.com/pages/ENOCH-of-New-Jersey/153658906304?ref=ts

ENOCH Audio Lending Library

Teaching Spelling – When Our Memory Fades - Audio Lending Library Review

You’re well into your Fall semester and it’s becoming clear that the expensive spelling program you chose, is not working.  Karen Stobaugh’s workshop might be just what you need.

Some kids never struggle with spelling.  Other kids struggle no matter how many different approaches you take.  Karen Stobaugh shares a simple method using syllabication that might help the struggling speller get a handle on spelling for the first time in his life!
To borrow this recording, go to the Audio Lending Library on ENOCH’s website.  Ask for recording #2008025

ENOCH EVENTS

N.J. Poetry Out Loud Recitation Competition

Sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation,
partnered with Discover Jersey Arts

What is it?
The competition’s goal is to encourage high school students to learn about great poetry through memorization and performance.  Students will develop their public speaking skills, build self-confidence and discover the beauty of poetry.  Students compete at a classroom level, school level, regional level, state and national level.

Learn more about the competition by visiting the Discover Jersey Arts website.  Scroll down and click on POETRY OUT LOUD.  Click on PROGRAM OVERVIEW and PROGRAM STRUCTURE.

What do we need for this to happen?
NJ Poetry Out Loud decided that any state homeschool organization can register as a “school”.  So, once again ENOCH OF NJ has registered as a “school” with the goal of having three “classrooms”.  However, at this time, we only have a northern classroom.  We are desperately seeking coordinators for a central and southern classroom.  

Each “classroom” must have a coordinator, a location and a minimum of 5 high school students participating.  The classroom level is a one day or night event which usually lasts between 2 to 3 hours.  A competition date of late November or early December will be announced.  Staff to be recruited includes 3 judges, someone to tabulate the scores, an MC, and a prompter [usually a competitor’s parent].  Additional information is available via DOC files if requested.  

If interested in sponsoring a classroom level, please contact the NJ POL Homeschool Contact, Carla Abrams at: JCAbrams@warwick.net

Spend Time on the Slopes with ENOCH!

Sue August

Last winter, all sorts of fun was had on the slopes during ENOCH’s Winter Fun Week.  For the less adventurous, there was great fellowship and downtime in the lodge or at the nearby resorts.  There was something for everyone!  Some die-hards skied from morning ‘til night.  Others did just a little skiing and then returned to their condo to relax or soak in the Jacuzzi.  If this sounds more appealing than how you spent last winter, please consider joining us.

ENOCH has made this kind of vacation affordable by partnering with Shawnee Mountain and nearby hotels and resorts.  If I’ve whet your appetite, read on for more details.

On January 27-29, homeschoolers from all over New Jersey (and PA) can ski, snowboard and stay overnight at steeply discounted rates.  This program has something for everyone!  If you've never skied/snowboarded before, just come for at least a day trip and give it a try for as little as $52 including equipment rental and a lesson (regularly priced at over $100).  If you're already a winter fun enthusiast, come for multiple consecutive days at even better bargain prices.  The deadline for registration is Jan. 11, 2010.  Walk-in registrations will be accepted at slightly higher prices.

1 Day Lift: $27    Ski or Board Rental: $15    Ski or Board Group Lesson: $10
2 Day Lift: $49    Ski or Board Rental: $24    Ski or Board Group Lesson: $20
3 Day Lift: $67    Ski or Board Rental: $36    Ski or Board Group Lesson: $30


Area lodging will welcome homeschoolers when you mention the ENOCH discount.  Options include hotel rooms from $55-$99 or timeshare resort condos and townhouses for about $169 per night (sleeps 6).  Lodging details will be posted in early January.

Enjoy fellowship in the lodge with other homeschoolers.  We had a huge section of the lodge pretty much to ourselves last year with lots of room for the little ones to run around and play.

For more details, registration form and FAQs, go to http://www.enochnj.org/index.php/events/winterfun2010
Please spread the word to all your homeschooling friends.  Print the flier from ENOCH’s website and hand it out or post it where homeschoolers will see it.

See you on the slopes!

OTHER EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES

Debra Bell Seminar - High School @ Home

 
If you were not able to attend the Debra Seminar on October 2-3 at Cornerstone Calvary Chapel in Howell, you can order the recordings and handouts.  Mail your check of $25.00 made out to Cornerstone Calvary Chapel to Cornerstone Calvary Chapel, 6550 Route 9 South, Howell, NJ  07731.  The recordings of the seminar on both Friday and Saturday with all handouts will be mailed to you.  Please include in the envelope that this check is for the Debra Bell seminar recordings and handouts and please include your name and address.  Thank you.  Please contact Michele Gross at grace2u5@verizon.net with any questions.

University Ready with Matthew Bullington

Matthew Bullington with Homeschool College Prep and a homeschool graduate has developed a variety of resources to help homeschoolers prepare for college.  Matthew provides workshops, DVDs, and online resources targeted at home-educating families with details on standardized exams, applying to college, and financing a college education.  
Recently he has launched a new subscription website, www.UniversityReady.com , which contains a variety of electronic resources targeted towards junior-high and high school students and their parents on the issue of preparing for college.  Check out www.UniversityReady.com for membership details and how your homeschool state organization can get the opportunity to give away 10 FREE 1-YEAR SUBSCRIPTIONS to University Ready!  

To find out more about Matthew Bullington or any programs offered you can visit www.HomeschoolCollegePrep.com  in addition to University Ready’s website.  Feel free to contact Matthew
Bullington, Owner, Homeschool College Prep at Matthew@HomeschoolCollegePrep.com with any questions you might have, or if you are interested in finding out more about this business and the workshops and resources that he offers.

The Westerly Learning Center

The Westerly Learning Center, established in 1984, is an enrichment program for homeschooled children, ages five and up. Regular classes include Art, Science, French, Spanish, Geography, History, Literature, Writing and Logic. WLC is a ministry of Westerly Road Church and is located in Princeton, NJ. WLC is not a school, nor does it fulfill the state requirements for a student’s schooling. Nevertheless, WLC can provide one key component in a well-rounded education. Classes are held for 32 weeks per year, from September through May, on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9:30 am – 12:00 pm and 12:30 – 3:00 pm. Students may choose to take one or more classes. Although most students enroll in classes in September, students may register for classes at a later time of the year if openings still exist. For more information, please call us at 609-683-1430 or visit our web site at: www.westerlylearningcenter.org.  

Spread the Word! NJ Home School Civil War Ball

Ladies and gentlemen, you are cordially invited to attend a most elegant event: the Third Annual Civil War Ball to be held on
January 8th, in the year of our Lord, 2010. Once again the venue will be the Station House in Tuckahoe, NJ, from 6:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. Proper dress, appropriate for the time period, is required.  Space is limited to one hundred and fifty; therefore a timely response will be rewarded. Light refreshments will be served.

This is an event for the high school and college-aged home school community. Ladies and gentlemen who are not schooled at home are welcome if they are escorting a home schooled attendee. We have planned the ball for a time when college students are available to attend.

Ladies and gentlemen will be instructed in the etiquette of the 1800's, and of course will be expected to behave in a manner
appropriate for the time (this is not a prom, nor is it a typical dance). The dance of the day was group dancing. Respect, courtesy, modesty, and manners will be the rule of the evening.

We hope this will be the highlight of your school year, and perhaps an exciting culmination or introduction to your study of this time period!

For more details or to purchase tickets, please visit our website: http://njcivilwarball.tripod.com

Contact and ticket information can be found on the web site.

M.O.M. FOR AMERICA TO RALLY IN WASHINGTON, D.C.

Sisterhood of patriots organizing to voice frustrations over excessive federal spending and increasing governmental interference in the lives of their children and families.
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Mothers who are concerned about the future of America for their children and families are organizing to gather next year in the nation’s capital. The M.O.M. for America Rally is set for August 14, 2010.
"M.O.M. for America was founded for the mothers of the United States who are concerned about the future of their children. Our children and grandchildren are our mission... our promise... our very lives!” said Claudia M. Nelson, National Coordinator of the event. “We oppose the ongoing and increasing involvement of government in the lives of our families, the indoctrination of our children and the mortgaging of their futures!"
“These women come from all across the United States and represent no particular political party, but they do share a belief that America needs to return to the core values represented in the Declaration of Independence, the Bill of Right and the U.S. Constitution,” according to Leigh-Ann Bellew, National Communications and Media Relations Coordinator. “The goal is to have at least a million mothers, grandmothers and families gather together in Washington , D.C. to express our dissent for this administration’s increasing presence in our schools, our personal and our religious lives.”
Those who are interested in joining are encouraged to join the web site at www.MOMforAmerica.com and register to attend the rally next August.

By rallying in Washington, D.C., the group aims to encourage lawmakers to “Stand up for our rights, as moms, to raise our children in a manner that reflect the principals of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness expressed through the documents so wisely developed by our Founding Fathers,” said  Bellew. “Moms from across the country are needed to organize on the state level and spread the word to their neighbors, family and friends.”

Donations are accepted on the web site, and representatives also are available to speak to media, upon request.
For more information, visit the web site at www.MOMforAmerica.com or contact Leigh-Ann Bellew, National Communications and Media Relations Coordinator for M.O.M. for America, at 732-670-6699 or email at labellew@momforamerica.net.

ONLINE LATIN TUTORING FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS!

Salve, amice!  Want to learn Latin?  Can't get to Franklin, New Jersey?  No problem.  

My name is Dylan McDonald and Family Cloister Learning Center (Sussex County) is now offering online Latin tutoring for children and adults!

Two options are available: One-on-one classes or small group sessions (2-4 students).  The fees are the same as our in-person tutoring classes.  Small online groups of four students cost $50.00 per month for each student.

Class Materials:  We currently use the following texts in class:  Latina Christiana I, Latina Christiana II, and Henle Latin books.

Schedule:  Enrollment is ongoing.  One-on-one tutoring can begin at any time.  Small group sessions are beginning the first and third weeks of each month until all available time slots are filled.  Our academic calendar has a list of planned vacation times during the school year.
 
More Details/Registration:  Please visit our website at www.familycloister.com.
 
Questions:  Please contact me (Magister):  (973)209-2700 or E-mail: tutor@familycloister.com

Homeschool Aspiring Artists™ Painting Classes

Homeschool Aspiring Artists™ Painting Classes at GoodSports USA :  2903 HIGHWAY 138, WALL, NJ 07719-See available GYM CLASS INFO BELOW!
NEW sessions begin November 17th!
GoodSports USA:  http://www.goodsportsusa.com/
A Child’s Journey through Art History™
Debra Stasiak, certified teacher, professional artist, mother, and founder of Aspiring Artists will be offering a program called A Child’s Journey through Art History™ to students ages 5-15 at GoodSports USA! Each 8 week session will feature a different art movement in history, and students will be able to learn from these famous artists in order to develop their own artistic talents. The first 6 weeks of each session will focus on recreating and painting famous masterpieces from the particular era featured, and the last 2 weeks of each session will give students the opportunity to paint their own original compositions that display their understanding of the art style and method studied during that particular session. Not only will students learn specific painting techniques, but they will also learn historical facts about the famous artists and their unique contribution to art history. The Tuesday session dates correspond with the GoodSports gym classes! Art classes will meet before, during, and after the gym classes. If you would like to register for art, you may print the art registration form by visiting http://www.goodsportsusa.com/
Registration for art is done separately from GoodSports gym classes, Thank you!
For more information contact debra@aspiringartists.net

SPORTS/COMPETITIONS!

TCHSA Sports News

Basketball Registration - Deadline Approaching!

This was the first year that TCHSA fielded soccer teams.  Those who participated enjoyed their season thoroughly.  It was a chance to pit their skills against those of students on private high school teams.  Use this link to see some great action shots! 

Brandon Flynn tells about his experience with TCHSA:  “I played JV and Varsity Basketball with TCHSA in my sophomore and junior years.  I had never played basketball up until that point.  It was fun to learn a new sport and also make new friends.  In March of 2008, I played in a tournament with TCHSA at Liberty University in Virginia.  The homeschool group my family belongs to offers sports but not on a competitive level.  I was excited to learn TCHSA offered competitive high school sports against Christian schools.  I have made lifelong friends through TCHSA, and the time commitment is well worth it.  This is the first year TCHSA offered soccer and even though our team's soccer record is 0 and 6, we have learned to persevere, and I always look forward to the next game.”   
 
The basketball season is already underway, but there is still time to join in if you hurry!  Ed Howell, athletic director, describes the basketball season this way:  “This is an excellent opportunity for ANY home schooled athlete to compete on the high school level. We will play approximately 20 games with our varsity teams and about half that number with JV. The age range to participate on our JV teams is 6th-9th grades, for varsity 10-12th grade. Our Varsity teams are very competitive and in our JV program our goal is to teach fundamentals and have a great time. If this sounds interesting to you or if you have specific questions, I can be reached on my cell at 267-918-4180. You can call this number any time between 8 am and 10 pm.”

Here are the particulars:  
•    The season runs through early March.  
•    Practices are held at two different locations:  Collingswood and Clementon.  
•    All home games are played at Ranch Hope in Alloway.  
•    Any homeschooler (boys and girls) grades 6-12 are eligible.  
•    The cost for the season is approximately $200-$300.

To register, call Ed Howell right away at 267-918-4180.  

Horseback riding lessons

Want something new for your phys ed classes?  We are a Christian family who own a horse farm in Central NJ (just down the road from Six Flags Great Adventure, right off Rt 195) and we would love to welcome homeschooling families.  We homeschooled our own children, now in college, and are aware of the challenges facing homeschooling parents to find good choices for activities. We have a nice variety of horses and ponies for lessons and pony rides. We also have a full equestrian science education program that includes classroom lessons on the ground (unmounted) as well as full instruction in the saddle (mounted). Instructor also experienced in teaching special needs riders.  Horseback riding lessons available to all homeschooling families any day of the week, at discounted rates. Just mention your membership in Enoch and this ad for 5% discount off of package rates. Call Regina for available times and appointments, (856)252-7075, or Karen (609)752-1447.  www.Freedomfarmusa.com .
Where the Spirit of the Lord is there is freedom.

SKI CLUB at BLUE MOUNTAIN

Dread those cold days of winter?  Put on a coat and come join us at Blue Mountain Ski Resort in Palmerton, PA!
We ski on 6 Mondays:  Jan. 4, 11, 25, Feb. 1, 8, 22 (complimentary)

RATES are the total per person for 6 trips:
Lift ticket only                  $95
Lift + rental                  $135
Lift + rental + lesson      $165

DEADLINE to receive 6th complimentary trip:  Friday, Nov. 6    (Must act quickly!)

CONTACT Renee Winship if interested.  BEWinship@verizon.net  or  732-379-0757

SKIERS AND SNOWBOARDS-Master's Slope Masters ski group at Camelback Mountain!

"Attention Skiers and Snowboarders!  Please consider joining other homeschool families for 5 days of skiing or snowboarding at Camelback Mountain in Tannersville, PA during Jan/Feb 2010.  The Master's Slope Masters group will be going on the following Tuesday dates: 1/12/10, 1/19/10, 1/26/10, 2/9/10 and 2/23/10.  This is prepaid group with the least expensive options available to those who register and prepay by 11/20/09.  If interested, please email Mark and Kathi Baillie at bailliemk@yahoo.com for more information and remember to "THINK SNOW"."
 

AMC-8 American Mathematics Competition Contest

Westerly Learning Center will be hosting the AMC-8 Mathematics exam to be held November 17, 2009 at 11:00 am. The AMC-8 is a 25 question, 40 minute multiple choice exam in middle school mathematics. Students in grades 6, 7 and 8 are encouraged to participate. The purpose of the exam is to promote the development and enhancement of problem solving skills. A variety of prizes are awarded to the top scoring students. Please contact WLC by November 1st to register for the exam as seating is limited. A $20 testing fee will be charged by WLC which includes all shipping and handling fees and proctoring of the exam. If you would like to register for the exam, please contact Kim Torquato by e-mail at learningcenter@westerlyroad.org or by phone at 609-683-1430.  For more information about the AMC-8 exam please see the American Mathematics Competition website at: http://www.unl.edu/amc/index.shtml

GOODSPORTS USA GYM  CLASSES

-See corresponding ART CLASSES ABOVE:  2903 HIGHWAY 138, WALL, NJ 07719
NEW sessions begin November 17th!
GoodSports USA:  http://www.goodsportsusa.com/
Facility Highlights:
•    10 acres of indoor & outdoor fun
•    Safe and fun environment
•    Friendly and professional staff
•    Indoor climate controlled facility
•    Olympic size pool

GYM DAYS
•    September 2009 to June 2010
•    Every Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
•    Pre-register by mail, walk-in, or phone
•    8 week sessions - dates listed on registration form
•    Non-competitive fun but with structure
•    Focus is for children to become more physically fit and meet new friends
•    Children wear name tags
•    Four different “fun” sports each day like basketball, volleyball, touch football, soccer, roller blading, soft hockey, kickball
•    Each sport is a ½ hour long with first 10 minutes of instruction, next 20 minutes of fun play time to apply what child learned
•    Each 30 minute interval the children would “switch” to the next sport
•    One or two instructors for each sport
•    Groups limited to the first 20 children
•    Age groups are 5-7 years old; 8-9 years old; 10-12 years old; and 13 and up
•    All groups are co-ed
•    Open Snack Bar for food and drinks
•    Optional brown bag lunch
•    First Child $56, 2nd sibling $40, 3rd sibling $24 then FAMILY cap $120.00 for each 8 week session.
•    No drop-ins
For more information contact:  Danny Pepe, Goodsports USA at 732-681-8898 or  dpepe@goodsportsusa.com .  You can also visit their website for a lot more information at:  http://www.goodsportsusa.com/

TRIPS

ROCKING HORSE RANCH - Homeschool Week Cancelled

Homeschool week cancelled but discount still available
 Unfortunately we have not received a good response for our scheduled homeschool week and are forced to cancel for the second week of November.   For all the families that are interested we will be extending the homeschool discounts for the weeks of Oct.26th – 30th and Nov. 2nd – 5th.  These weeks will offer all the great all inclusive facilities we’ve become famous for along with our newly opened Big Splash Indoor Water Park.   Rocking Horse stays committed to homeschoolers. We look forward to developing a dedicated week for the entire HS community along with special events for your local network.   Thanks again and God bless, Louis Herman, General Manager Rocking Horse Ranch.

Adventure Aquarium-Special Rates Available for Homeschooler Week!

Attention teachers and parents of home-schooled children...help introduce your students to the wonders of the deep by planning your next educational outing at Adventure Aquarium on the Camden Waterfront! During our special Homeschooler Week (November 9-13) book students at our group rate of just $10! Only a few students in your group? Not a problem! During our special Homeschooler Weeks, there's no group minimum required to receive this special discount! Descend to the very bottom of the ocean to explore some of the world's most fascinating creatures; travel African rivers to discover Nile Hippos, a porcupine and a free flight aviary of exquisite African birds; watch in wonder as sharks surround you in a 40-ft suspended Shark Tunnel and so much more! With over 200,000 square feet of space, nearly 2 million gallons of water and some 6,400 animals, Adventure Aquarium offers something for everyone! We even offer special Learning Adventure lessons and behind-the-scenes tours to help take learning to a whole new level of fun.  

Sharks are scary....planning your students' field trips shouldn't be! Call 856.365-3300 X7545, or email jtaggart@adventureaquarium.com to request a copy of Adventure Aquarium's 2009 Homeschoolers Weeks registration form.    

The Franklin Institute Save up to 30% off your next field trip!

Bring science alive with a visit to The Franklin Institute this fall!
Be among the first to see our exciting new theater presentations, live shows, and an ALL NEW special exhibit!
BODY WORLDS 2 & The Brain Opens October 17 for a Limited Run! View 200 real human body specimens, including two dozen full bodies, comparisons of healthy and diseased organs, and a new section devoted to the brain! A great learning experience for your class!
Curriculum connections: Life Sciences, Science in Personal & Social Perspectives, Science & Technology.

LIVE Science Shows: Your students will become part of the action in our interactive shows. Select from Carnival of Machines or The Liquid Air Show! Curriculum connections: Science & Technology, Physical Science.

Now Playing! New shows in the Fels Planetarium, Franklin Theater, and Tuttleman IMAX Theater. Curriculum Connections: Earth & Space Science, Life Science, Science in Personal & Social Perspectives, History & Nature of Science, Science & Technology.
Choose the timing and offer that works best for you!
Visit Between November 1 - November 25, 2009
Receive $2.00 off BODY WORLDS 2 OR Receive $1.50 off basic museum admission
Visit Between November 30 - February 12, 2010
Receive $1.00 off basic museum admission
It's Simple!
To take advantage of this special offer, call 1-800-285-0684 and mention code EBSG09.
Or, reserve online by clicking here!
If booking online, remember to enter code EBSG09 on the online form to receive your discount.
For full descriptions of shows and exhibits, visit our Field Trip Planner online.

Home School Day at Liberty Science Center

Plan a trip to Liberty Science Center to see the Traveling Exhibit from the Field Museum called Nature Unleashed.  The exhibit is all about natural disaster, and the human resolve.  Along with this exhibit, you should plan to see the IMAX Forces of Nature.   Mysteries of the Great Lakes recently opened on October 23! Come and discover the mysteries of The Great Lakes which are among the Earth’s Largest and most beautiful bodies of fresh water.   Liberty Science Center will be hosting programs specifically designed with the Home School Program in mind.  Special programming will be available during the day, but must be reserved.  For more information, Teachers Guides, specific dates and times and cost visit their website at:  http://www.lsc.org or Contact Mary McDonald, Director, Group Sales & Telemarketing at Liberty Science:  (T) 201-253-1214 or mmcdonald@lsc.org

PUBLICATION DATES

ENOCH of NJ e-Newsletter NEXT DEADLINE

 Here are the fall deadlines for the 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.

December 2009 issue:  Tuesday, November 24

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.