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Saturday, May 24, 2008

Internet Safety: How to Protect Your Child from Cyber Bullying

The rapid rise of cyber bullying -- where children (and sometimes adults) embarrass, harass, threaten or even stalk their victims using the Internet, text messaging and cellphones -- should NOT be taken lightly, say experts. Unlike the classic school yard bully, who shouted insults across the playground or intimidated victims into handing over lunch money, today's cyber bullies don't need to be physically present to do their dirty work. They can reach their "targets"any time and anywhere, using a variety of new communications tools. These tools can reach large "audiences" with emails and postings of digital photos, video and audio designed to humiliate the victim or damage his reputation and relationships.

While bullying takes many forms, common practices include stealing someone's online name and using it to spread nasty rumors and comments; retouching photos to embarrass the victims; or recording conversations secretly and posting them online or attaching the audio files to mass emails.

Although most perpetrators (and victims) are tweens or teens, troubled adults have been known to participate in cyber bullying (although some feel that if adults are involved, it shouldn't be called cyber bullying). In a 2006 incident, the mother of a teenage girl's friend posed as a 16-year-old boy, and established an online "friendship"with the girl. When the "boy" started sending cruel messages, the teen girl (who suffered from depression) committed suicide. In the majority of cases, however, cyber bullying is confined to the adolescent world, where it's become pervasive. And fortunately, suicides are rare, but they do showcase the severity of the problem.

The statistics on cyber bullying are quite surprising and very sobering. According to a 2004 i-SAFE survey of 1,500 students in grades four through eight:

-- 42% of children have been bullied while online.

-- More than one-third of kids have been threatened online.

-- Nearly one-fourth of those surveyed had received at least one threatening email or other type of message.

-- Nearly 60% of children reported getting hurtful communications in the past.

-- BUT 58% of respondents NEVER told their parents about what had happened.

The National Crime Prevention Council claims almost half of all American teens have been exposed to cyber bullying. "Cyber bullying may...indicate a tendency toward more serious behavior," reports the National Cyber Alert System. "While bullying has always been an unfortunate reality, most bullies grow out of it."Cyber bullying has not existed long enough to have solid research, but there is evidence that it may be an early warning for more violent behavior."

What can you do to protect your children? Here are seven recommendations:

1. Because many kids are afraid to talk with parents about the problem -- sometimes fearing they'll lose their Internet or cell privileges -- you should be proactive. Hold a discussion with your kids about the issue of cyber bullies, and lay down simple ground rules for what information they can post in emails and on the Web, and what information should stay private. Tell them to inform you of any threatening, vicious or otherwise suspicious communications. Recognize they may well be reluctant or unwilling to tell you because of peer pressure and/or fear of reprisal. Do your best to get them to communicate with you, and take their concerns about retaliation seriously. Some of the steps below could make the situation worse, so stay sensitive to your children's concerns.

2. Explain to your kids that you expect them to treat others with respect and kindness -- in other words, you won't tolerate THEM becoming bullies. Also stress that they should AVOID responding to threats and hostility with counter-threats and more hostility. Often, this just escalates the situation.

3. After identifying the cyber bully (or bullies), file a formal complaint with the perpetrator's cell phone company or Internet Service Provider.

4. Report cyber bullying to school authorities or law enforcement if cyber bullying includes threats of violence or predatory sexual behavior. Whether the local police will actually act on your complaint depends on their policies and(obviously) the extent of the threatening behavior. School boards, however, often have broader standards in place for putting a quick stop to cyber bullying, so you may want to report problems to them first.

5. Ask your child to save and print any evidence of cyber bullying, including emails, bulletin board postings, instant messages, etc. Be sure that he or she also documents the relevant dates and times of the incidents.If you decide to visit the perpetrator's parents to resolve the problem, arm yourself with proof of the bad behavior, so the matter doesn't turn into "he said/ he said."

6. Most importantly, take your children's complaints seriously. If you notice that your child has recently become withdrawn or morose, or has lost interest in activities she used to enjoy,these may be warning signs that she's being victimized by a cyber bully.

7. Neither you nor your children should put up with cyber bullying, but avoid the temptation to engage in some form of cyber revenge. Past incidents have shown that this only makes matters worse.

Grace and Peace,
Ed

Friday, May 23, 2008

What Parents say about Upper Room Christian School #6

Mrs. Wendy Medford said, " I want my child to receive an education in an environment where the love of God is part of the curriculum. The care and love that the teachers show towards my child has made a difference in his education. The student to teacher ratio is smaller, therefore my child is able to get more individualized attention."
Mrs. Medford has a son in Mrs. Claudio's third grade.

We love hearing these reports over and over again! Especially about the care and individualized attention given to each child. God has created each of us and given us a Divine destiny. It is our goal at Upper Room to help our parents achieve the God given mandate to raise up your child in the way they should go with love, great care, concern and understanding.

Grace and Peace,
Ed



Thursday, May 22, 2008

Varsity Baseball Champs


Well the Varsity baseball season ended yesterday with another dominant win by the Upper Room Royals. This is their third championship in a row with an undefeated season! Here is their season in review as recorded by Newsday.

Upper Room - Baseball
Team roster

May 21, 2008
F
at Upper Room
13
Our Savior New American
4
Highlights: Upper Room 13, Our Savior New American 4: Emilio Constanzo went 3-for-4 with three runs and two doubles to help lift Upper Room (12-0) to its third consecutive IPSALL championship. Hector Mejias also went 3-for-4 with four runs and two RBIs, and Josh Boyd had two doubles and an RBI.
Winning pitcher: Upper Room - William PichardoLosing pitcher: Our Savior New American - Alec Staneck

May 19, 2008
F
at Upper Room
13
Portledge
3
Highlights: Upper Room 13, Portledge 3: Brandon Johnson went 3-for-4 with three stolen bases, one RBI and three runs to lead No. 1 Upper Room (11-0) over No. 4 Portledge in the IPPSAL semifinals. Devin Reiersen and William Pichardo both went 2-for-4 with three RBIs. Upper Room advances to the finals against No. 2 Our Savior New American on Wednesday at 4 p.m. at Portledge. Upper Room is looking for it's fifth title in six years.
Winning pitcher: Upper Room - Josh Boyd Losing pitcher: Portledge - Reid Erickson

May 14, 2008
F
at Upper Room
16
Portledge
0
Highlights: Upper Room 16, Portledge 0: Devin Reiersen pitched a no-hitter with 10 strikeouts to lead Upper Room (10-0) in IPPSAL. A third-inning walk to Reid Erickson cost him the perfect game. Emilio Costanzo went 3-for-4 with three RBIs and two runs, David Jack went 2-for-3 with two runs and two RBIs and William Pichardo went 2-for-4 with three stolen bases, two runs and an RBI.
Winning pitcher: Upper Room - Devin ReiersenLosing pitcher: Portledge - Reid Erickson

May 13, 2008
F
Upper Room
13
at Portledge
0
Highlights: Upper Room 13, Portledge 0: Senior lefthander William Pichardo struck out 12 and walked three in a no-hitter to lead Upper Room (9-0) in IPPSAL. Pichardo faced one batter over the minimum as he picked off two batters. Hector Mejias went 2-for-3 with a run and two RBIs and Brett Reiersen added two hits with a run and an RBI. Portledge is 3-6.
Winning pitcher: Upper Room - William PichardoLosing pitcher: Portledge - Stoll

May 7, 2008
F
at Upper Room
9
Long Island Lutheran
8
Highlights: Upper Room 9, Long Island Lutheran 8: Brandon Johnson's RBI single with two outs in the bottom of the eighth inning scored Devin Reiersen with the winning run for host Upper Room (14-2) in non-league. Josh Boyd's solo home run with two outs in the bottom of the seventh tied the game at 8-8.
Winning pitcher: Upper Room - Devin ReiersenLosing pitcher: Long Island Lutheran - ** GiambroneHome runs: Upper Room -- Josh Boyd , 1; Constanzo, 1. Long Island Lutheran -- ** Giambrone, 1.

May 5, 2008
F
Upper Room
18
at Solomon Schechter
4
Highlights: Upper Room 18, Solomon Schechter 4: Hector Mejias was 3-for-4 with a pair of home runs and five RBIs for Upper Room (8-0) in IPPSAL. Emilio Constanzo went 2-for-4 with three runs and a home run. Josh Boyd had a pair of doubles with four runs and four RBIs. Solomon Schechter is 3-6.
Winning pitcher: Upper Room - Josh Boyd Losing pitcher: Solomon Schechter - Marc CanarickHome runs: Upper Room -- Hector Mejias, 2; Constanzo, 1.

May 3, 2008
F
at Upper Room
8
Temple Christian (Fla.)
0
Highlights: Upper Room 8, Temple Christian (Fla.) 0: Devin Reiersen threw a complete-game one hitter for Upper Room (14-3) in non-league.
Winning pitcher: Upper Room - Devin ReiersenLosing pitcher: Other Schools - Wilson

May 2, 2008
F
Riverdale Baptist (Md.)
6
at Upper Room
2
Highlights: Riverdale Baptist (Md.) 6, Upper Room 2
Winning pitcher: Other Schools - SelmerLosing pitcher: Upper Room - William PichardoHome runs: -- Winegardner, 2; Travers, 1. Upper Room -- Constanzo, 1.

April 26, 2008
F
Upper Room
14
at Atlantic Christian (N.J.)
1
Highlights: Upper Room 14, Atlantic Christian (N.J.) 1: Hector Mejias went 3-for-3 with a three-run home run, a walk and four runs scored for visiting Upper Room (10-3) in non-league. Devin Reiersen went 2-for-3 with a grand slam in the top of the first inning. Atlantic Christian is 5-6.
Winning pitcher: Upper Room - William PichardoLosing pitcher: Other Schools - ** PittnerHome runs: Upper Room -- Devin Reiersen, 1; William Pichardo, 1; Hector Mejias, 1.

April 26, 2008
F
Upper Room
10
at Atlantic Christian (N.J.)
0
Highlights: Upper Room 10, Atlantic Christian (N.J.) 0: Robert King went 2-for-3 with a run scored and two RBIs for visiting Upper Room (11-3) in non-league. David Jack went 2-for-3 with a run scored and an RBI, and Carlos Bolanos went 2-for-2 with a walk, a run scored and an RBI. Atlantic Christian is 5-7.
Winning pitcher: Upper Room - Brandon JohnsonLosing pitcher: Other Schools - ** Povell

April 25, 2008
F
at Upper Room
22
Cumberland Chrisitian (NJ)
3
Highlights: Upper Room 22, Cumberland Christian 3: Hector Majias was 3-for-4 with two home runs and six RBIs for Upper Room (10-2) in non-league. Josh Boyd was 2-for-4 with a homer and seven RBIs.

April 25, 2008
F
at Upper Room
17
Cumberland Christian School (N.J.)
1
Highlights: Upper Room 17, Cumberland Christian 1: Devin Reirsen was 3-for-3 with five RBIs including a two-run homer for Upper Room in non-league. William Pichardo was 3-for-4 with a triple, double and four RBIs.
Winning pitcher: Upper Room - Devin ReiersenLosing pitcher: Other Schools - MabenHome runs: Upper Room -- Devin Reiersen, 1.

April 23, 2008
F
Upper Room
19
at Knox
0
Highlights: Upper Room 19, Knox 0: Devin Reiersen struck out seven in a no-hitter and had two hits and three RBIs for Upper Room (6-0) in IPPSAL. Hector Mejias had four hits, four runs and six RBIs in the win. Knox is 2-5.
Winning pitcher: Upper Room - Devin ReiersenLosing pitcher: Knox - Kim

April 21, 2008
F
at Upper Room
20
Knox
0
Highlights: Upper Room 20, Knox 0: Josh Boyd was 3-for-3 with three RBIs and three runs for Upper Room (5-0) in IPPSAL. Brandon Johnson and Hector Mejas were each 3-for-3 with three runs and two RBIs. Knox is 1-4.
Winning pitcher: Upper Room - William PichardoLosing pitcher: Knox - KoffHome runs: Upper Room -- Josh Boyd , 1.

April 16, 2008
F
Upper Room
16
at Waldorf
0
Highlights: Upper Room 16, Waldorf 0: Josh Boyd went 3-for-4 with two home runs and seven RBIs and Emilio Constanzo went 3-for-4 with a homer and three RBIs for Upper Room in IPPSAL.
Winning pitcher: Upper Room - Brandon JohnsonLosing pitcher: Waldorf - DomenicHome runs: Upper Room -- Josh Boyd , 2; Constanzo, 1.

April 10, 2008
F
Upper Room
11
at Our Savior New American
1
Highlights: Upper Room 11, Our Savior New American 1: Josh Boyd hit 2-for-2 with two RBIs and two run scored to lead Upper Room in IPPSAL. Boyd also pitched five no hit innings and struck out six.Our Savior New American is 2-2.
Winning pitcher: Upper Room - Josh Boyd Losing pitcher: Our Savior New American - HugoHome runs: Upper Room -- Josh Boyd , 1.

April 8, 2008
F
at Upper Room
4
Our Savior New American
1
Highlights: Upper Room 4, Our Savior New American 1. William Pichardo pitched a three-hitter with 15 strikeouts for Upper Room (1-0) in IPPSAL. Pichardo added two hits and two runs. Emilio Constanzo went 3-for-3 with a run.
Winning pitcher: Upper Room - William PichardoLosing pitcher: Our Savior New American - Harvey

Congratulations Coach Passalaqua, Coach Jackson and Coach Ferrante! Congratulations to the entire team on another outstanding season!

Grace and Peace,
Ed

Wednesday, May 21, 2008

Are You Building a Solid, Unshakable Foundation for Your Children’s Lives?


Luke 6:49 says, “the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete.”

Whether we realize it or not, as parents we are adding to the foundation of our children’s lives every single day. Do we as parents give great attention to the foundation of our children’s lives?

Prov 22:6 says, "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it."

If not you can change that beginning today. Choosing a Christian school can be an excellent way to help ensure that you are building a foundation based on God’s Word.

Upper Room Christian School can help you fulfill the directive we have been assigned as Christian parents.

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

What are Parents Saying About Upper Room Christian School #5


Mr. and Mrs. Dwight Jones recently said, " We send our son to Upper Room Christian School because it is a safer, more controlled environment. We LOVE the fact that it is a Christian school and that they teach the children the same morals that we were taught as children and that are hard to find today."

"Our son experiences a great music program on a daily basis. That was not available to him in public school. I have always nurtured his musical talents but since he's been in Upper Room I have really seen his talent blossom!"

"The uniforms provide a non existant need to fight because someone is dressed better than someone else. There are no metal detectors and no security guards. It's safe!"

The Jones' son is in 8th Grade.

Grace and Peace,
Ed

Sunday, May 18, 2008

Spring Concert of the Arts

We had our Concert of the Arts yesterday from 11am until 1pm. It really was awesome! Each segment was well rehearsed and strategically placed to build to several standing ovations! Poems, songs, dance, mime and drama were all represented by students from 3-18 years old.

Performed once a year during the spring season the show celebrates the gifting and anointing in and on these children. From originals to re-scored covers, each segment built upon the last. With over 250 people in attendance the atmosphere was electric.

Thanks to the over 30 staff members and volunteers who helped make this year's show the best so far!

Grace and Peace,
Ed

Saturday, May 17, 2008

Know your Children!


About 15 years ago, a series of questions for parents to ask their sons and daughters was developed. Then, parents were to design practical projects for their children based on the needs that were discovered. Recently, one of the parents who carried out this exercise more than 15 years ago asked his son and daughters, “Do you remember those questions I asked you and the projects we did?” They enthusiastically responded that they did remember and that these interactions with their dad were cherished memories. Here are the types of questions that were asked:

Who is your best friend? What qualities do you admire in him or her? Does this friendship tend to build you up or pull you down?

What do you want to do with your life? Whom do you want to be like? What skills do you want to develop? Do you wonder what God’s will is for your life?

What fears do you experience? (Fear of the future? Failure? Rejection? Abandonment? Past failures being revealed?)

What books have influenced you the most? How did they influence you? Have you ever thought about writing a book? What topic could you write about?

What things in our family discourage you? (Clutter? Conflicts with siblings? Tension between parents? Unfinished house repairs? Lack of space? Rules?)

What changes would you like to see in me? (More time spent with family? Less time watching television or on the Internet? Not getting upset or angry? Greater spiritual leadership?)

What do you enjoy doing in your free time? (Sports? Reading? Projects? Time with friends?)

What hurts have you experienced from others? (Friends? Family? Neighbors?)

What things about yourself or your past would you like to change?

If you could ask God any question, what would you ask Him?

Setting aside an afternoon or weekend to spend with each child and going over these and other questions would make a profound impact upon your children and you. The better you know the members of your flock, the better equipped you will be to shepherd them. Why not look at your calendar right now and designate a time that you could begin this project.

Grace and Peace,
Ed

Wednesday, May 14, 2008

What Parents Saying About Upper Room Christian School # 4


Ms. Patricia Williams said, " My son has grown in his knowledge of the Word of God and has also been able to get individualized attention." He loves the freedom to talk about God in his classes." She has a son in 10th Grade.

Ms. Clemence Baptiste said, " I send my son to Upper Room Christian School for a better education and to know more about God." "He has learned the value of love, friendship and respect." " I don't have the words to express my gratitude when my son came home and said, the teachers are very caring."
She has a son in 5th Grade.

Mrs. Mary Estes said, " I send my son for a better education and Bible study.""Upper Room Christian School has made him a better person by teaching him true religion."" The teachers, like Miss Mary, really care."
She has a son in 7th Grade.

Grace and Peace,
Ed


Tuesday, May 13, 2008

What do Parents Say About Upper Room Christian School #3


Bradley and Pamela Taylor had this to say about Upper Room Christian School.

"We made a decision to send our children to U.R.C.S. out of our strong desire to have our Christian values reinforced and applied throughout their day in an environment that fostered a rigorous curriculum."

"We believe our children are being academically prepared for college as they are becoming independent thinkers, developing strong moral character and a desire to excel."

"We feel our children are mentally, physically and spiritually safe at U.R.C.S. The staff is dedicated. There is a sense of community and commitment. Challenges and /or conflicts are addressed in a very caring and committed manner."

The Taylor's have a daughter in 6th grade and a son in 9th grade.

Grace and Peace,
Ed
http://www.urcwc.org/

Monday, May 12, 2008

Does Our Lord Jesus Speak to the Importance of a Teacher?


Jesus states in Luke 6:40 that, “A pupil is not above his teacher; but everyone, after he has been fully trained, will be like his teacher.” I believe this instruction sums up Jesus’ own philosophy of education.

We cannot find anywhere else where Jesus specifically and personally mentions the training of the young, and impressionable. So, this must be very important.

So, if we adults want to be trained by godly teachers how much more should we want our children to be trained by men and women who not only rely on the Bible, but see the world around them through the lens of Scripture.

The pupil will be like the teacher – that is an idea to meditate on.

Grace and Peace,
Ed



Sunday, May 11, 2008

We had Richie Righteous at this Friday's Chapel Service


Cambria Heights Rapper Takes A Leap Of Faith
by Theresa Juva, Assistant Editor
06/14/2007

Richard Ishmael, aka Richie Righteous, considers himself an authentic Queens rapper, but not like his famous borough counterparts 50 Cent and Ja Rule. “I choose to rhyme for the Lord,” the 29-year-old said inside his Cambria Heights recording studio. “I grew up in church and around music. Living in New York, there was no way to escape hip-hop.”

Ishmael emigrated from Guyana when he was 11, when the family moved so that his father could start his own church, what later became the Jamaica Assembly of God. During church services, Ishmael played the drums. Soon, he was creating his own beats and mixing them with lyrics, a process that “combined my love for God with my love for rhyme,” he said. But he felt the pressure to conform to the mold of rapping with obscenities. “It was hard on my conscience that you shouldn’t speak like this,” said Ishmael, who graduated from York College.
Not that he was immune to the rough neighborhood life other Queens artists rapped about. When Ishmael was 7 years old and still lived in Guyana, thieves broke into his home to rob his father, who they believed was wealthy. The thieves fled with valuables, but not before firing several shots that Ishmael and his family were able to dodge. The experience solidified the faith Ishmael would later use to weave lyrics into hip-hop songs. “The beauty of what hip-hop used to be is that from whatever angle you come from, you can tell your story,” he explained.

Hip-hop in its purest form is a way of communicating experiences, a purpose that has been warped in today’s hypersexual and materialistic mainstream rap, he said. “I love Queens rappers,” he added. “They are super talented. I just wish their lyrics were more positive.” He said that although rapping about the tribulations of street life is valid song material, most mainstream rap focuses on degrading women and much of the storytelling has been lost in the catchy hooks of urging women to “shake it.” This is in sharp contrast to Ishmael’s lyrics. In “Holla Back” he sings: “I never dreamed back when I was rapping on pavements/I blow to start up righteous entertainment/The same kid everybody said should stop doing gospel cause I had a son out of wedlock/But God took the kid that was out of control/Blessed my music and he’s used it to win souls.”
Ishmael’s different approach to hip-hop hasn’t helped him win over producers, however. Many aren’t interested in squeaky clean lyrics, a frustration that he takes out in one song called, “We Are At War.” In it he vents: “Gangstas get air play/Crack feens get air play/This ain’t no fair play what must I do to get air play/Oh I know maybe I should switch up my resume/And start rapping about how to get weeded.”

Ishmael still finds ways to reach his audience. Every month, he hosts a concert at the Jamaica Assembly of God, located at 139-25 88th Ave., an event called “Emergency Room,” because it is where people are metaphorically saved by the hope and optimism they feel after the concert, he said. “It provides an environment for young people where they can have a great time,” he said. “You don’t have to worry about dying,” he added, referring to the sometimes violent club culture.

While Ishmael said he will always call Queens home, he takes his gig across the country, mostly to churches. Last year, he performed at the Texas church of T.D. Jakes, a renowned evangelical preacher. He performs at both megachurches in front of 10,000 people as well as small storefront congregations. Ishmael is currently working on his second album titled “R.I.C.H,” which stands for Resting In Christ’s Hands. He hopes to destroy misconceptions people have about Christian-inspired music. “It doesn’t have to be preachy,” he said. “My life as a gospel rapper is to show people there is a human aspect to us. I’m somebody who chose to follow God.”

Richie did a great job for us Friday in Chapel! The kids were up representing Jesus and their Christian lifestyle. You could sense the genuine love and concern Richie has for this generation and God is using Him to both win souls and solidify those who already are walking with God. The kids love him. Check him out at http://www.richierighteous.net/index.cfm .

Grace and Peace,

Ed

Saturday, May 10, 2008

WHat do Parents Say About Upper Room Christian School #2

This response is from Mrs. Yvette Jenkins.


When asked why do you send your child to Upper Room Christian School? Mrs. Jenkins said," The school is founded on Christian Values, the Word of God, and the Holy Spirit. The curriculum and educational standards are good for providing the foundation for my children's growth and development. The teachers are commited to their purpose and care about the children. I also like the ethnic diversity of the school."


When asked how has the school made a difference in your child's life she responded, " My sons have grown and become more confident. Upper Room has been a support in maintainng our family values while our sons are in school and have contributed to my peace of mind knowing that they are free to develop in the Word of God, in Worship, intellectually and socially with their classmates."


"Upper Room's enviornment is diverse with students from many different areas compared to the local public schools. School Spirit and pride in teams seems higher at Upper Room as well."


Mrs. Jenkins sons are in Miss Cipriano's 2nd grade and Mrs. Claudio's 3rd grade.


Grace and Peace,
Ed
http://www.realfoodforlife.blogspot.com/


Thursday, May 8, 2008

What do Parents Say About Upper Room Christian School #1


Aisha and Joseph Frank said, " We send our child to Upper Room Christian School because of the safe environment that it provides. The one on one attention she receives. The Christian experience that the school gives my child. The Family atmosphere the school also provides."

"My child participates more in school. She is more confident, more attentive and is very happy in school."

"There is no comparison between Upper Room Christian School and our local public school. The classes are smaller so my child gets more personal attention from the teacher. It is more of a family feeling at URCS and most important safer and no gang activity."

The Frank's child is in Mrs. Claudio's third grade class.

Grace and Peace,
Ed

You Can be Discriminated Against for Your Faith.

Here's the situation: Gina, a college student whom the American Center for Law and Justice is representing, is facing discrimination in her Intro to Philosophy class, a required course at her college. Gina had perfect grades on her Philosophy class assignments - until she took a stand for her faith, in opposition to her professor. The professor has not only docked her grades - he has also repeatedly derided Gina for her faith. (Does ''derided'' seem too strong a word? Decide for yourself: He has called her ''close-minded,'' ''uncritical,'' ''hurtful,'' and ''blinded by belief'' simply because she would not adopt his way of thinking. He said that to engage in dialogue, you have to at least acknowledge the possibility that God does not exist! Also, students could opt out of the final if they would put in writing that ''we have no free will.'')

This would be an outrage (and utterly unconstitutional) even if it only affected Gina - but it doesn't stop there. If this professor can get away with doing this to Gina, anyone can do it to YOU ... or your children, your grandchildren, your loved ones, your neighbors, members of your church ... anyone. This goes on daily in public institutions all across America but especially in public schools and Universities. Another strong reason for Strong Community Based Christian Education! A safe haven for the knowledge of God to be revealed and nurtured.

Grace and Peace,
Ed

Tuesday, May 6, 2008

12 Steps To Conflict Resolution

Conflict is a part of everyday life. Even in our best relationships there is conflict (a difference of oppinion and understanding). Communication is one of the most important skills to develop.

1. Learn to embrace and resolve conflict.
2. Address your anger appropriately.
3. Seek understanding, not victory.
4. Assume the best.
5. Learn to share your feelings appropriately.
6. Watch your tongue.
7. Speak the truth in love and with respect.
8. Attack the problem not the person. Don’t use “You” statements use “I” statements.
9. Deal with specific areas not generalizations.
10. Seek and grant forgiveness. Use the 4 statements in your notes.
11. Deal with conflict personally. Go to that person. Don’t reprimand anyone in front of others.
12. Be gentle. People are fragile.

The way to conflict resolution is the way of Love!

If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing.

Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
Love never ends.

As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when the perfect comes, the partial will pass away.

When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways. For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known. So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.

The Holy Bible : English standard version. 2001 (1 Co 13:1-13).

Grace and Peace,
Ed

Monday, May 5, 2008

Do you agree or disagree that we should protect our children from negative and secular influences?

Many parents choosing public schools today do so largely on the grounds that they don’t believe they should protect their children from negative and secular influences.

While this line of reasoning not only ignores much of what the Bible teaches about raising children, it is also a misguided approach.

Rather than think about what we should or shouldn’t protect our children from, it is much more appropriate to focus on what we need to protect and prepare them for!

If we want to prepare our children for a life centered around God and His plans and purposes for them, then we need to begin by choosing an educational environment that will work with us, rather than against us, in helping our children grow toward that goal.

As a father of four daughters that graduated Upper Room Christian School I can say that it was the single best investment that I made in my children's lives. They are all grown adults now with respectable jobs (one teaches at the school) and they have learned to put God first in all that they do.

Grace and Peace,
Ed

Saturday, May 3, 2008

Chinese Auction

Thursday night we had an awesome time at our annual Chinese Auction Fundraiser. Over 300 people came to support the school by buying chances to win specially prepared baskets. Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Donofrio and many others donated their time in getting donations from local business' and generous friends and making beautiful baskets to display.
We started by previewing the 150 baskets and the Marriot Windwatch was a buzz with folks choosing where to put their tickets. At 7:30 the salad was being served and we began picking out the winners. Basket by basket there were shouts of "that's me" and "I won" as eager benefactors got up to receive their prizes.

We had a lovely dinner and dessert and announced the winners throughout the night. The prizes ended with the winners of the 50" Flat Screen TV and the $1,000 money board. The night ended at 10:30 with winners from every table carrying out their prizes. My daughter won a Pannini maker for me and a Food Processor for her sisters. People won door prizes as well as prizes for answering the 30 different trivia questions asked by Mrs. Caldeira throughout the night.

All in all it was a great night of fun and fellowship with thousands of dollars raised for the school! We are all looking forward to next year's Chinese Auction!

Grace and Peace,
Ed