Apr. 18, 2008
Troy town water woes....
We Moved here last June and were taken by the ease of dealing with the people, homeschooling and life in general, we adore the scenery and most everything else about NH. However, coming from Massachusetts I am being reminded of the Woburn, MA water scandal. The towns water supply was not a real concern to anyone until a lot of little children and people came down with cancer and other issues in a small area. Troy, the town we moved to is a cool little town. The epitome of small town America to me. When we moved here we received from our landlords, a notice about the questionable water quality in our quaint little town. We were able to see the notice only because we pay for our own water. The notice was to alert the residents of Troy that the water was in danger of lead contamination and was due to be cleared up by June 2007 but the water department was in some kind of trouble for not getting out the notice to the residents sooner. We went to the water department and asked about the lead levels and we were reassured by them that testing has been done and there was nothing to worry about. So, with that, we figured we were past the deadline and Troy had to comply according to the letter and we tried not to be too concerned about the situation. In the past few months since, we have had to pay the water bill three times. We have been floored by the $300. quarterly payment despite how we try to conserve the water. We are coming from the Boston area and paying MWRA water rates that were supposed to be the most in New England, I thought. Even there, with a two family home, water and sewer for both was only $170. a quarter. Just to make matters worse, we got two notices recently from the water department. The first one was about how they are raising the rates to cover things like the insurance for the water departments employees?!?! Then, we were informed that not only did they not comply with the June 07 deadline to test/ clean the water, we are now in danger of lead and copper contamination. We try to use the water here as little as possible anyway but there have been times we have had to use the water. I am 4 months pregnant and quite concerned about the baby for the fact the water may be contaminated. I have heard enough stories of lead causing autism, along with the concern for the rest of my family. We have been buying water to cook with and to drink and hardly using the water at all, yet the bill some how stays the same and is now going to increase due to the rate hikes. How is it possible that the Troy water department does not do what needs to be done in overseeing our water quality, raise rates and remain untouched. This last notice still does not explain what New Hampshire plans to do about Troy's blatant disregard for the residents here. Who is going to pay for our medical bills if people start getting sick here when we have to pay for their employees to not do their job? Why does it always take people to get sick in a cluster before some one gets concerned? I have written to the governor and am awaiting a response. We will see what, if anything will be done and how many people I have to go through to get an answer.
***Another tidbit of information, we already pay a $9 a bill bond. From what I hear (I have not been able to look into this for factuality yet), this bond is for another person in the water dept. who messed up some time ago and was fined. When he didn't pay, the residents of Troy were made to pay his bond....What is up with that??
We, like most people these days, are broker than broke. What I see here is a bunch of people doing what they are supposed to do, IE pay their bills, and get penalized for it because the people who should be making sure our rates are correct and the water consumable are falling way short of a job well done.... They aren't even reaching the line of a job done at all!!
Email me at: myhomeboyz_3@yahoo.com
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Apr. 3, 2008
This says it all- Homeschoolers cannot be overlooked, under estimated or ignored
I cannot express the joy in my soul for those of you who were able to make it to the state house in Concord to speak against SB337. You all have made a name where there was none. I felt overwhelmed by the fact that the bill makers thought they could strong arm the Homeschoolers like we were a 'safe' group to bully. They obviously did not expect the outcome they got. On behalf of all of us who champion behind you who attend and are there with you in spirit and voice, thank you!! I cannot attend the hearings, although I would love to pack up my soap box and my boys and be on my way on the 15th. I have to settle for writing emails and making calls. We speak for eachother in these times in all our actions. New Hampshire officials should think long and hard about fixing things that are not broken. I think it is so foolish to restrict our freedoms to supposedly keep the few overlooked children from falling through the cracks. They can't do that for the schooled students who fall through the cracks far more often than Homeschooled kids. Not to mention, the people who abuse the system in any way are not usually affected by laws which make it harder for them to do something, because they aren't following the rules to begin with. The only ones it hurts are those who are doing the right thing. That whole train of thought borders on the idea that Homeschoolers are freaky and odd characters that need extra watchin' from big brother. Yet Homeschooling continues to prove the opposite. Although, I will admit to being a little odd but not freaky. My children do not have access to TV in our home, not no access to a TV, just not the general media. No satellite or cable but plenty of appropriate movies, dvds and netflix. That absolutely makes us odd to some, especially non Homeschoolers but that is okay. My boys are very good and are constantly complimented about their behavior. (although they were liked when they watched TV too but I like it better knowing that they have to be selective in the media they choose for their info). Anyway, getting off my rant and back on subject, You all rock!! At least we have shown them we are more involved than they gave us credit for, no matter what the outcome. God Bless and stay strong!!
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From the HSLDA E-lert Service...
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April 3, 2008
New Hampshire--Homeschool Hearing Continued Because You Showed Up!
Dear HSLDA Members and Friends,
Thank you! Your commitment to freedom in New Hampshire sent a clear
message to the House Education Committee that this proposed
legislation is unnecessary and interferes with the rights of parents.
In fact, so many people indicated a desire to testify that the
Committee has scheduled another public hearing for April 15 at 10 a.m.
in Representative's Hall!
Yesterday, as 10:30 a.m. approached, homeschooling families lined up
outside LOB 207, a room far too small for an estimated 300 waiting to
be seated and to testify. When I first arrived, Chair Emma Rous was
sitting in a very small hearing room and it seemed clear that the
sheer numbers in attendance shocked her as she said in exasperation --
"Why did you bring so many people?" She then graciously agreed to
move the hearing to Representative's Hall in the Capitol to
accommodate everyone.
While there were a few people who testified in favor of the bill, most
of the testimony was in opposition. During the testimony, a primary
reason given by the sponsor of the bill was that a "safety net" was
needed to catch the "very small number" of children who might be
falling through the cracks and not receiving an adequate education.
CheNH Board Member Dave Wheeler and I testified and pointed out that
the proposed bills would accomplish nothing toward preventing children
from falling through the cracks. Such an argument is a red herring
and a poor justification for increasing regulation over homeschoolers.
"RSA 169", said Wheeler, "already addresses the issue of educational
neglect. N.H. homeschoolers," Wheeler continued, "already provide a
written notice as well as the results of assessment test so that there
is more than enough information to determine whether an adequate
education is being provided."
You may read my testimony online and prepare your testimony for April
15 by viewing our talking points memo at
http://www.hslda.org/elink.asp?id=4988 .
Personally, it was a real blessing to meet many of you at the hearing
and to see you with your wonderful families! Thank you for all of
your letters, phone calls, and emails to the New Hampshire
Legislature, and for attending the hearing! I also would like to
commend the work of all New Hampshire homeschool leaders who are
working to protect homeschool freedom. Let's keep it up and hold the
line on no more homeschool regulation in the Granite State.
ACTION REQUESTED
It is very important that you also attend the second public hearing on
Tuesday, April 15, at 10 a.m. We need to have at least an equal size
showing to show that our resolve hasn't changed! Be sure to talk with
your friends who weren't able to come -- they now have a chance to
voice their opposition to this bill.
For more information on Senate Bill 337, see
http://www.hslda.org/elink.asp?id=4989 .
Thank you for your support!
Very truly yours,
Michael P. Donnelly, Esq.
HSLDA Staff Attorney
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Mar. 27, 2008
Urgent Action Needed- SB337 update from today
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From the HSLDA E-lert Service...
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March 27, 2008
New Hampshire--Action Needed to Oppose
Changes to State Homeschool Law
Dear HSLDA Members and Friends,
Senate Bill 337, which increases government control over New Hampshire
homeschoolers, is scheduled for a public hearing by the House
Education Committee on April 2, 2008, at 10:30 a.m. HSLDA Attorney
Michael Donnelly intends to attend and testify, and we need as many
people as possible to attend the hearing in opposition to the bill.
If you cannot attend the hearing, please call the committee members
and ask them to vote S.B. 337 "inexpedient to legislate."
New Hampshire Governor John Lynch has promised to sign any legislation
sponsored by Senator Iris Estabrook (this includes S.B. 337), so it is
vital that we stop this bill in committee!
ACTION REQUESTED
1. Attend the House Education Committee hearing on S.B. 337 on
Wednesday, April 2, at 10:30 a.m., in Legislative Office Building 207.
CheNH and other pro-homeschooling representatives will be attending
the hearing as well. When you arrive, please sign up to oppose the
bill. Signing in does not obligate you to testify; however, if you
would like to testify, you may. A talking points memo will be
distributed in the next few days to assist you in preparing for your
testimony.
2. Call or email the members of the House Education Committee, and,
in your own words, give them the following message:
"S.B. 337 adds back in a requirement for homeschoolers that was taken
out two years ago in H.B. 406. There is no evidence indicating that
this section is needed. The current law ensures that the state's
interest in education is met, whereas the proposed changes create
unnecessary burdens on homeschooling families and participating
agencies. "
If your last name begins with the letter A-E, please call
representatives 1-4; if it begins with F-J, call 5-8; if K-O, call
9-12; if P-T, 13-16; if U-Z, 17-20.
The House Education Committee is as follows:
1. Rep. Emma L. Rous (D), Chair
(603) 868-7030
emma.rous@leg.state.nh.us
2. Rep. J. Timothy Dunn (D), Vice Chair
(603) 357-7993
dunnbt@verizon.net
3. Rep. Judith E. Day (D), Clerk
(603) 964-1816
judy.day@leg.state.nh.us
4. Kimberly C. Shaw (D)
(603) 882-2845
kcshawed@aol.com
5. Rep. Charles B. Yeaton (D)
(603) 736-9087
cyeaton@metrocast.net
6. Rep. Claudette R. Jean (D)
(603) 883-3824
crjean2@verizon.net
7. Rep. Claire D. Clarke (D)
(603) 796-2268
8. Rep. Kimberley S. Casey (D)
(603) 772-8506
caseycorps@aol.com
9. Rep. Barbara E. Shaw (D)
(603) 626-4681
beshaw3@aol.com
10. Rep. Scott A. Merrick (D)
(603) 788-4311
d.merrick@tufts.edu
11. Rep. James M. O'Neil (D)
(603) 424-3059
jmoneil1@comcast.net
12. Rep. Judith T. Reeve (D)
(603) 524-2644
reeverj@metrocast.net
13. Rep. Sharon M. Carson (R)
(603) 434-2489
bladensfield@hotmail.com
14. Rep. Paul Ingbretson
(603) 989-3092
ingbretson_studio@yahoo.com
15. Rep. David W. Hess (R)
(603) 485-9027
dave.hess@leg.state.nh.us
16. Rep. William J. Remick (R)
(603) 788-2444
wremick@ne.rr.com
17. Rep. Nancy F. Stiles (R)
(603) 926-6467
nancy.stiles@leg.state.nh.us
18. Rep. Karen K. McRae (R)
(603) 497-2186
karen.mcrae@leg.state.nh.us
19. Rep. Elenore Casey Crane (R)
(603) 881-9048
repcrane@comcast.net
20. Rep. Pamela G. Price (R)
(603) 888-4774
pamela.price@leg.state.nh.us
For more information on Senate Bill 337, see
http://www.hslda.org/Legislation/State/nh/2008/NHSB337/default.asp
Thank you for your support!
Very truly yours,
Michael P. Donnelly, Esq.
HSLDA Staff Attorney
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Mar. 18, 2008
Homeschoolers rights still under fire in NH-status report on SB337 from HSLDA
March 18, 2008
New Hampshire--S.B. 337 Passed Senate,
Calls Needed to Stop Bill in the House
Dear HSLDA Members and Friends,
Last Thursday, by a vote of 14 to 10, the Senate passed Senate Bill
337. This legislation will now move to the House, where it will be
considered by the House Education Committee.
Right now, we are gathering information on where these committee
members stand on S.B. 337, and we need your help.
ACTION REQUESTED
If one of the House Education Committee members represents your
district, please contact that member, and ask:
1) If he or she supports or opposes SB 337; and
2) If he or she supports it, what his reasons are.
Be sure to mention that New Hampshire is not currently experiencing a
problem with home educators' performance, and that furthermore, the
legislature removed the law's curriculum description requirement only
two years ago. While the change to the notification deadline is not
onerous, it doesn't seem like there is sufficient need to change the
law that has been working well just for that.
Please notify HSLDA of your representative's response by emailing
legale@hslda.org
To find your representative, use HSLDA's Legislative Toolbox at
http://capwiz.com/hslda/home/
The House Education Committee is as follows:
Rep. Emma L. Rous (D), Chair
(603) 868-7030
emma.rous@leg.state.nh.us
Rep. J. Timothy Dunn (D), Vice Chair
(603) 357-7993
dunnbt@verizon.net
Rep. Judith E. Day (D), Clerk
(603) 964-1816
judy.day@leg.state.nh.us
Kimberly C. Shaw (D)
(603) 882-2845
kcshawed@aol.com
Rep. Charles B. Yeaton (D)
(603) 736-9087
cyeaton@metrocast.net
Rep. Claudette R. Jean (D)
(603) 883-3824
crjean2@verizon.net
Rep. Claire D. Clarke (D)
(603) 796-2268
Rep. Kimberley S. Casey (D)
(603) 772-8506
caseycorps@aol.com
Rep. Barbara E. Shaw (D)
(603) 626-4681
beshaw3@aol.com
Rep. Scott A. Merrick (D)
(603) 788-4311
d.merrick@tufts.edu
Rep. James M. O'Neil (D)
(603) 424-3059
jmoneil1@comcast.net
Rep. Judith T. Reeve (D)
(603) 524-2644
reeverj@metrocast.net
Rep. Sharon M. Carson (R)
(603) 434-2489
bladensfield@hotmail.com
Rep. Paul Ingbretson
(603) 989-3092
ingbretson_studio@yahoo.com
Rep. David W. Hess (R)
(603) 485-9027
dave.hess@leg.state.nh.us
Rep. William J. Remick (R)
(603) 788-2444
wremick@ne.rr.com
Rep. Nancy F. Stiles (R)
(603) 926-6467
nancy.stiles@leg.state.nh.us
Rep. Karen K. McRae (R)
(603) 497-2186
karen.mcrae@leg.state.nh.us
Rep. Elenore Casey Crane (R)
(603) 881-9048
repcrane@comcast.net
Rep. Pamela G. Price (R)
(603) 888-4774
pamela.price@leg.state.nh.us
For more information on Senate Bill 337, see
http://www.hslda.org/Legislation/State/nh/2008/NHSB337/default.asp
Thank you for your support!
Very truly yours,
Michael P. Donnelly, Esq.
HSLDA Staff Attorney
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Mar. 17, 2008
SB337 update
A brief update on the status of SB337. As I understand it, SB337 "ought to pass" but was amended first. I believe the part about homeschooled students being counted in the enrollment so the schools can get money for them was edited. This is what I have been able to gather and I will report more as soon as I get the info. I do know the bill now has to go through another committee and is not yet law. Keep making calls and sending letters, I think it is the education committees turn to hear from you now. I will get all the info soon.
Thanks, Peggie |
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Mar. 9, 2008
Homeschool conventions in New England 2008
It's that time of year again.... flowers blooming? trees ready to grow? buggies taking flight? Not so much with that stuff yet in this part of the country, although it will be here soon enough!! It is time however for homeschoolers to make their wishlists and gather some resources to check out, pack the kids, hubby (or wifey) and lunches and take to a convention. I found a few in New England and hope you can find one to peruse and gather some very useful information for the next year of your journey. Have fun and stay informed!!
CHeNH homeschool convention NH
This convention takes place at the Center of New Hampshire, Radisson Hotel in Manchester NH on Memorial Day weekend (May 23 & 24).
Come for a weekend of informative workshops, encouraging speakers, helpful vendors, and a chance to share with other homeschoolers.
If you have a question about the upcoming CheNH Convention in May 2008, click here. Also, did you know that if you volunteer, you can get a $15.00 vendor coupon, redeemable in the vendor hall? Some of the areas needing help include registration (do you like meeting people?), vendor hall setup and policing, and runners. To inquire and sign up, click here.
Also, please remember to tell your friends about the 2008 Convention. Up to 40% or 50% of our annual Convention attendance is new to home education. Since we're returning to the Center of New Hampshire this year, we have ample room for vendors and expect our numbers to increase. Being at the Center also allows you to stay overnight at the hotel, eliminating the stress and maximizing your benefits of attending. Staying over has become quite popular with moms and dads - a welcome retreat! Be sure to consider sending your children to the Power Kidz program, too, while you're attending the Convention!
MassHOPE homeschool convention MA
This great convention takes place on April 25 & 26, 2008
Our keynote speakers are Mike Farris and Kevin Swanson. Featured speakers include Diane Craft and Teresa Moon.
MIKE FARRIS has long been a leading voice for homeschool freedom as the founder and chairman of the Home School Legal Defense Association. He is now also the chancellor of Patrick Henry College, the only college in the country with a majority of its student body comprised of homeschool graduates. He will give an inspiring presentation tracing the God given liberty with which our nation has been so richly blessed. In our Saturday morning general session he will speak on a topic of which all homeschoolers should be aware. This is a subject of vital importance whose effects could be coming to a court near you. Forces are arrayed to impose their views on the rights and well being of children in a manner to suppress the rights of parents that may have opposing views. We must not be caught unaware. The threat is real and must be confronted before it grows out of control.
KEVIN SWANSON, the son of missionaries, was homeschooled before any of us had heard of such a thing. Today he is one of the busiest speakers at homeschool conventions across the country. He will have important and inspiring message for the entire homeschool community but especially for dads. The support of dads is so important to the success of homeschooling. Mom, make every effort to get Dad to the convention. Kevin will close the convention with a general session entitled, "How Homeschooling Will Change the World."
GENERATION JOSHUA will be conducting a timely and exciting "mock election" teen track in this important election year. Your teens will learn much about the execution of a campaign and will conduct one for their own "candidates" as they take to the hustings with the zeal of youth. These are not the real candidates that you see in the news but candidates of their own. Watch out for them as you wander the halls of the convention. Interspersed throughout the program will be interesting and educational sessions on the role of Christians in the political arena and much more. Gen J has conducted these sessions to enthusiastic responses from teens at conventions throughout the country.
CHILDREN'S CONFERENCES INTERNATIONAL will once again conduct a new and engaging children's program. These have been highly successful since we started them two years ago. Your kids won't want to miss it. Don't delay your registration as space is limited for the children's program which, based on its track record, could fill up early.
Convention brochures have been mailed with a registration form. Be sure to return it, postmarked by March 31, 2008, for the preregistration discount. See you there.
Teach Homeschool convention CT
2008 Convention Information - The 2008 TEACH convention brochure is now available for you to view. You will also be able to register! Please click here to register today!
Click here to register your graduates for the 2008 convention graduation.
***My apologies to Maine HOME homeschoolers, for missing the info on your convention which took place this past Friday and Saturday (March 7 & 8) in Rockport, ME. Hope all went well!!!****
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Mar. 6, 2008
JUST A REMINDER.....
Mar. 6, 2008
NH homeschooling families-Doing good but more action needed!!! From HSLDA E-LERT
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From the HSLDA E-lert Service...
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March 6, 2008
New Hampshire--S.B. 337 Going to Full
Senate Improved but Still a Threat
Dear HSLDA Members and Friends,
Yesterday, the Education Committee voted to amend S.B. 337, and then
by a vote of 4-2, to recommend to the full Senate that it "ought to
pass." Your calls and influence helped convince the committee to
modify the bill and to roll back some of the more onerous provisions
of the original.
Although the bill is much improved from its former version, it still
unnecessarily increases regulation on homeschoolers in New Hampshire.
The bill appears likely to pass the Senate as early as today and then
be referred to the House Education Committee.
As amended, the bill requires parents to submit "draft curriculum" and
"summary information" prior to their initial homeschooling program.
It also requires parents to notify their participating agency prior to
commencing a homeschool program and to re-notify annually within 30
days of the initial filing or by the first day of school in the
resident district.
You may recall that this curriculum notification element was removed
from New Hampshire homeschool law by H.B. 406 in 2006. While the
notification provision is not particularly onerous, the new
requirement that homeschoolers submit "summary information" and a
"draft curriculum" is a significant departure from current homeschool
law.
We are working with homeschooling leaders in New Hampshire and will be
reaching out to members of the House Education Committee. Our aim is
to determine whether and how this bill can be made "inexpedient to
legislate" or amended to minimize further intrusion of the government
into New Hampshire homeschooling. One way the bill could be improved
would be to remove the new paragraph five that requires the "summary
information" and "draft curriculum".
For more information on Senate Bill 337, see
http://www.hslda.org/elink.asp?id=4830 .
Thank you for your support!
Very truly yours,
Michael P. Donnelly, Esq.
HSLDA Staff Attorney
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Mar. 4, 2008
NH parents- Action needed
Dear HSLDA Members and Friends,
Senate Bill 337, which increases government control over New Hampshire
homeschoolers, will be discussed in an executive session on Wednesday,
March 5, and may go to the full Senate this Thursday (March 6). Calls
are needed to encourage the Education Committee to vote this bill
"inexpedient to legislate."
It is possible that the committee will pass the bill to the whole
Senate for consideration. Senator Peter Bragdon, a member of the
Education Committee, has proposed amendments to Senate Bill 337 which
would make its impact on homeschoolers less negative. Calls are also
needed to all senators to encourage them to accept Senator Bragdon's
amendments if they insist on moving this bill forward.
ACTION REQUESTED
Call the Senate Education Committee and your own senator, and, in your
own words, give them the following message:
"The current homeschool law in New Hampshire does not need fixing.
The current proposed changes infringe on my right as a parent to
direct the education of my children. There is no problem with the
current law, and these changes would create additional burdens and
unwanted intrusion into homeschooling families. Furthermore, the bill
would likely create confusion regarding whether the Department of
Education would have approval authority over homeschool programs.
Please oppose this bill, and vote it inexpedient to legislate. If
this bill is not voted inexpedient to legislate, please accept Senator
Bragdon's amendments."
For your senator's contact information, go to HSLDA's Legislative
Toolbox at http://www.hslda.org/toolbox .
The Senate Education Committee is as follows:
Sen. Iris W. Estabrook, Chair
(603)868-5524
iris.estabrook@leg.state.nh.us
Sen. Joseph A. Foster, Vice Chair
(603)891-0307
joseph.foster@leg.state.nh.us
Sen. Martha Fuller Clark
martha.fullerclark@leg.state.nh.us
Sen. Molly M. Kelly
(603)352-5605
molly.kelly@leg.state.nh.us
Sen. Peter E. Bragdon
(603)673-7135
peter.bragdon@leg.state.nh.us
Sen. Robert J. Letourneau
robert.letourneau@leg.state.nh.us
Thank you for your support!
Very truly yours,
Michael P. Donnelly, Esq.
HSLDA Staff Attorney
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Feb. 19, 2008
It's sugaring time... New Hampshire has a lot to offer for this activity
If you love maple syrup on hot pancakes on a cool morning then you need to be in NH from February to April. I am givin a glimpse into some of the places I know of that offer yummy and educational tours of this awesome gift from nature. It is all beginning already and you don't want to miss it. We try to do this every year, ofcourse my boys' favorite part of the trip is usually the pancakes and real maple syrup after the tour. Not all places offer this treat but a lot do for a small fee.
I am giving you a list of sugar houses in NH broken down by county. Not all sugar houses offer tours though and it would be wise to call one near you and check whether they do or not, some may offer tours and may not have it listed and vice versa.
MMMM! I can smell it now! I love New Hampshire!!!! |
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Feb. 19, 2008
museums and other fun things to do in NH (from visitnh.gov)
The Portsmouth area has a lot to offer that I was unaware of until I saw the Forts, castles and kids link on visitnh.gov. I know that winter seems like it will never end sometimes but it will soon be giving way to budding trees and warmer weather. No, really it will, you'll see. There is something for everyone on these educational trips.
Starting in Portsmouth-
You will find The Childrens Museum of Portsmouth and The Christa McAuliffe Planetarium. You can explore and learn from a variety of programs and exhibits in the museum and planetarium. Then it is over to New Castle Island which offers Fort Constitution- where the main attractions are the old fort and the lighthouse on the water. Below is a pricing list of state parks, including this one.
Most New Hampshire State Parks do charge an admission fee to use the park.
Please note: Rates are subject to change.
Day-Use: $3 - Adults; $1 - children ages 6-11
FREE - children ages 5 & under, NH residents age 65 & over
Bear Brook State Park, Clough State Park, Echo Lake Beach, Echo Lake in Franconia Notch State Park, Ellacoya State Park, Forest Lake State Park, Greenfield State Park, Kingston State Beach, Milan Hill State Park, Miller State Park, Mollidgewock State Park, Monadnock State Park, Moose Brook State Park, Odiorne Point State Park, Pawtuckaway State Park, Pillsbury State Park, Rhododendron State Park, Rollins State Park, Rye Harbor State Park, Silver Lake State Park, Sunapee State Park, Umbagog Lake State Park, Wadleigh State Park, Wellington State Beach, Wentworth State Beach, White Lake State Park, Winslow State Park
Manchester has the See Science Center which offers a lego exibit that is said to be pretty grand.
Concord offers The Museum of New Hampshire History with tons of programs and a wealth of information about our awesome state this is a must see and explore.
Hope this helps you out a little with the questions of where to go or what to do when the Jack frost is nipping at your.... everything. Stay warm and have fun. Winter, although it is very cold at times, is still a beautiful scene all across New Hampshire. Just more proof of the good Lord's incredible handiwork!!!
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Feb. 12, 2008
The Boston Globe Travel Show Feb. 22-24
Jan. 31, 2008
**VERY IMPORTANT** New Hampshire show up and be counted for this- from HSLDA E-LERT
January 31, 2008
New Hampshire--Please Call and Attend Hearing
to Oppose Changes to State Homeschool Law
Dear HSLDA Members and Friends,
We need your help now to defeat a bill that would restrict homeschool
freedoms!
If passed, Senate Bill 337 would result in confusion and the potential
for further intrusion into New Hampshire homeschools by local and
state educational officials. The bill requires homeschooling parents
to notify their participating agency each year no later than August 1
and to select in advance the method of evaluation. It also adds
homeschooled students to the district's "daily membership in
residence" (for the purpose of calculating the amount of money that
goes into the state's Educational Trust Fund, which presumably
determines the amount of money distributed to the districts).
All three changes create unnecessary burdens and threaten
homeschooling freedom in New Hampshire.
Including homeschooled students in the "daily membership in residence"
will create a new reason for local educational authorities to track
homeschoolers in their districts. (New Hampshire's current homeschool
law was carefully written so that homeschooling families can avoid all
contact with government educational officials if they chose.)
Furthermore, the proposed legislation is confusing--it implies that
home education programs must be approved by the Department of
Education.
Second, a deadline (proposed in the bill as August 1) is not necessary
and could result in increased truancy prosecutions for homeschoolers
who inadvertently file late. The current law provides sufficient
direction for when a notice should be filed with the participating
agency.
Finally, many homeschooling parents select their form of assessment
later in the year and should have the freedom to do so without any
undue interference from the state. Homeschooling parents are
responsible for directing their children's education and are capable
of determining the appropriate form of assessment. The proposed
legislation unduly interferes with the parent's role and should be
rejected.
ACTION REQUESTED
Plan to attend the hearing with other New Hampshire homeschoolers and
leaders to oppose changes in the New Hampshire homeschool law. The
hearing is scheduled for February 5 at 8:45 a.m. in Senate Hearing
Room (S.H.) 103.
Please call the Senate Education Committee and your own senator, and,
in your own words, give them the following message:
"The current homeschool law in New Hampshire does not need fixing.
The current proposed changes infringe on my right as a parent to
direct the education of my children. There is no problem with the
current law, and these changes would create additional burdens and
unwanted intrusion into homeschooling families. Furthermore, the bill
would likely create confusion regarding whether the Department of
Education would have approval authority over homeschool programs.
Please oppose this bill, and vote it inexpedient to legislate."
For your senator's contact information, go to HSLDA's Legislative
Toolbox at http://capwiz.com/hslda/home/
The Senate Education Committee is as follows:
Sen. Iris W. Estabrook, Chair
(603)868-5524
iris.estabrook@leg.state.nh.us
Sen. Joseph A. Foster, Vice Chair
(603)891-0307
joseph.foster@leg.state.nh.us
Sen. Martha Fuller Clark
martha.fullerclark@leg.state.nh.us
Sen. Molly M. Kelly
(603)352-5605
molly.kelly@leg.state.nh.us
Sen. Peter E. Bragdon
(603)673-7135
peter.bragdon@leg.state.nh.us
Sen. Robert J. Letourneau
robert.letourneau@leg.state.nh.us
Thank you for your support!
Very truly yours,
Michael P. Donnelly, Esq.
HSLDA Staff Attorney
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Jan. 31, 2008
The Pine Hill Waldorf School Hilltop Circus
Dear Homeschool families,
The Pine Hill Waldorf school Hilltop circus is coming to town Feb.
21, 22 and 23. Hilltop circus is a curriculum based program for our
7th and 8th grade students. In addition to our public performances,
we offer a school show on Friday, Feb. 22 at 10am. For groups of ten
or more the ticket price is $6 per person and includes popcorn and a
drink at intermission. Please note that tickets for most shows
(especially the school show) must be purchased in advance as these
shows usually sell out.
Please contact Gail Agans at 654-6003 or gagans@pinehill.org for
more information or to order tickets.
Hope to see you at the show!
Gail
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Jan. 25, 2008
"The Golden Compass".... Where is it really directing you and your children?
I had a conversation recently with a dear friend of mine who is also very much so my sister in Christ. She knows how much my family loves the "Lord of the Rings" and "Chronicles of Narnia" movies and books. She called me to warn me about the movie "the Golden Compass". She said her mother had gone to see it under the assumption that it would be on the idea of "L.O.R". She was horrified at the true content of the movie. We no longer have any form of satellite or cable so we haven't really seen it advertised much or the controversy that followed it. We did happen to catch a glimpse of an ad while at a friends house and their TV was on. From the ad the movie seemed quite similar to the "Lord of the Rings" and "Chronicles of Narnia" series.
After our conversation the other day however, I feel we will not be seeing that movie. I did some research on the internet after the call to find out what all the hub bub was about. My husband and I looked through the mound of info on the movie and though we decided it best for our family not to see it, we believe everyone should be able to make their own informed decision. I found a few sites about the reasons some say you should beware and I want to share them with you. I think the most troubling thing about the whole incident is that I was decieved into thinking "Compass" was like the earlier mentioned movies and from what I have read and heard, it soooo is not!!! Just incase you were under the same impression we were and thought the family may enjoy a "Narnia" type adventure, please research the movie first. I found general info about the movie when I googled it only by name, but when I googled it under "is the golden compass movie for christians".... I was shocked. Some stuff I found on these sites,
The entire series has been dubbed the "anti-Narnia," with Pullman regularly expressing disdain for C.S. Lewis' fictional world and even once calling it "propaganda in the service of a life-hating ideology."
He (Phillip Pullman) said in a 2001 interview, "I'm trying to undermine the basis of Christian belief," and two years later told another newspaper, "My books are about killing God."
Here are some links but please look around for yourself and gather your own info before deciding one way or the other....
The Golden Compass Movie
Baptist Press
USA Today
There are many more, check for yourself. Get informed before seeing this movie!!!
Christians beware and do not follow the direction of this compass!!!`
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Jan. 16, 2008
Homeschool Pin Pals Bowling Jan. 18, 2008
Hello Everyone
Just a reminder that our home school group is bowling again this Friday 01/18/2008 at 10am.
IF THERE IS BAD WEATHER AND YOU ARE STILL INTERESTED IN BOWLING ,PLEASE CALL THE BOWLING LANES @627-7722 ON FRIDAY MORNING . iF THEY ARE OPEN THEN ANYONE IS WELCOME TO STILL COME. I WILL LEAVE IT UP TO EACH OF YOU TO MAKE THE DECISION TO COME OR NOT.
For those of you who haven’t joined us before
here is the information
WE MEET TO BOWL THE 1ST AND 3RD FRIDAY OF EACH MONTH
AT 10 AM
AT LAKESIDE LANES
2171 Candia Road
Manchester, NH 03109
(603)627-7722
THE PRICE is $2.75 A STRING
PLUS FREE SHOE RENTALS
PARENTS MUST STAY WITH CHILDREN AT ALL TIMES,
PARENTS ARE WELCOME TO BOWL IF THEY WOULD LIKE.
ALL AGES AND ABILITIES ARE WELCOME.
FEEL FREE TO E-MAIL ME WITH ANY QUESTIONS
WE HOPE YOU CAN JOIN US.
BRENDA Mom to NICOLE 17 AND JESSE 13 TUCKERSHOMESCHOOL@YAHOO.COM |
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Jan. 15, 2008
"Cool" things to do around New Hampshire by the NHDTT
7th Annual New Hampshire Snow Sculpting Competition - Jackson
Fri, January 25 – Sun, January 27, 2008
learn more
7th Annual Ice and Snow Festival - Keene
Sat, February 2, 2008
learn more
Penguin Plunge - Hampton Beach
Sun, February 3, 2008
learn more
Colebrook Winter Carnival - Colebrook
Sat, February 9, 2008
learn more
Winter Carnival & Ice Harvest - Tamworth
Sat, February 9, 2008
learn more
The Great Rotary Fishing Derby - Meredith
Sat, February 9 - Sun, February 10, 2008
learn more
Mount Washington Valley Winter Carnival - North Conway
Sun, February 24 - Thur, February 28, 2008
learn more |
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Jan. 15, 2008
More on Science from HSLDA- "Homeschool Heartbeat"
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Daily Transcript
Program Audio--Click here to Listen Online.
Finding Science Resources
Volume 79, Program 32
1/15/2008
Biology, Chemistry, Physics—oh, my! How do homeschoolers find the right science resources for their children? Mike Smith and Dr. Arthur Robinson tackle this question on today’s Home School Heartbeat.
Mike:
It seems like it’s easy for a homeschooler to feel overwhelmed by all the science curriculum choices available. What are your favorite resources for teaching science, Dr. Robinson?
Dr. Robinson:
Well, the first resource is mathematics. We use Saxon math; other mathematics programs may work as well. The important thing is that the child self-learn the math—that he not be helped. Because he needs to learn in the early years of study that he can solve problems for himself. He needs to build good problem solving abilities and build self-confidence that he can solve such problems. Then, once he knows mathematics, he should go onto physics and then to chemistry. These subjects are much like mathematics, it’s just simply mathematics applied to the modern world. But my main tools, the tools I value the most, are just self-taught mathematics, and then self-taught physics and self-taught chemistry. A good physics book, a good chemistry book—it’s important that the physics book be based on calculus, not arithmetic. But these are the primary tools that a family needs.
Mike:
Thank you, Dr. Robinson. Please join us tomorrow when we’ll find out how homeschoolers can utilize a laboratory in their home.
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Jan. 14, 2008
Keep your eye on this New Hampshire- The hearing date has passed but write support letters and emails anyway!!
From the HSLDA E-lert Service...
======================================================================
January 7, 2008
New Hampshire--Action Needed to Protect Parental Rights
Dear HSLDA Members and Friends,
New Hampshire representatives and friends of New Hampshire
Homeschoolers, Daniel Itse, Paul Ingbretson and Dudley Dumaine are
sponsoring a state constitutional amendment to protect parental
rights. If passed, CACR23 would allow New Hampshire voters to decide
whether their Constitution should be amended to include the following:
"The State shall not abridge the right, role, or responsibility of
parents to control the welfare and education of their children."
The House Children and Family Law Committee is currently considering
the measure, and a public hearing on it is scheduled for this
Wednesday, January 9, 2008. It is important that as many parental
rights supporters as possible attend this hearing and express their
views.
ACTION REQUESTED
Attend the public hearing on Wednesday, January 9, 2008, at 1 p.m. in
Legislative Office Building 206 and express your support for CACR23.
If you are unable to attend the hearing, please call or email members
of the Children and Family Law Committee, and in your own words, give
them the following message:
"Please support CACR23. The right of parents to direct their
children's education and upbringing is being threatened on many
fronts, and a constitutional amendment will help preserve it."
Please contact the representatives below according to the first letter
of your last name:
A through F, contact Reps 1 through 4
G through K, contact Reps 5 through 8
L through P, contact Reps 9 through 12
Q through U, contact Reps 13 through 16
V through Z, contact Reps 17 through 19
HOUSE CHILDREN AND FAMILY LAW COMMITTEE MEMBERS
1. Rep. Mary Gile (Chair)
(603) 224-2278
mary.gile@leg.state.nh.us
2. Rep. Barbara Richardson (Vice Chair)
(603) 239-8346
3. Rep. Eileen Flockhart (Clerk)
(603) 778-0647
hartflock@comcast.net
4. Rep. Anne Grassie
(603) 332-8562
5. Rep. Anthony Matarazzo, Sr.
(603) 882-1582
anthony.matarazzo@leg.state.nh.us
6. Rep. Beth R. Arsenault
(603) 528-1727
betharsen@aol.com
7. Rep. Julie M. Brown
(603) 332-1084
8. Rep. Marilinda Garcia
(603) 894-6004
marilinda.garcia@yahoo.com
marilinda.garcia@leg.state.nh.us
9. Rep. Jayne Spaulding
(603) 471-0735
jspaulding4staterep@gmail.com
jayne.spaulding@leg.state.nh.us
10. Rep. Ruth Ginsburg
(603) 882-8647
ginsburg@tiac.net
11. Rep. Mary Walz
(603) 225-1968
mb.walz@leg.state.nh.us
12. Rep. Michael Farley
(603) 669-5950
mike@hciw.net
michael.farley@leg.state.nh.us
13. Rep. Carolyn Gargasz
(603) 465-7463
cgargasz@cs.com
14. Rep. Edith Hogan
(603) 883-5320
edith.hogan@leg.state.nh.us
15. Rep. Elizabeth Blanchard
(603) 753-4039
lizblanchard@verizon.net
16. Rep. Deanna Rollo
(603) 742-7511
deanna1214@aol.com
17. Rep. Daniel Itse
Business Phone: (603) 642-9403
itsenh@comcast.net
18. Rep. Edward Moran
(603) 472-5912
epmoran@comcast.net
19. Rep. Jane Johnson
(603) 352-4057
jane.johnson@leg.state.nh.us
BACKGROUND
Your right to homeschool rests on the freedom to direct the education
and upbringing of your children. Unfortunately, this freedom is under
attack from multiple sources, particularly international law, and only
a federal constitutional amendment will ensure that the courts of our
nation protect the fundamental right of parents to raise their
children. And only a constitutional amendment will override
international law that seeks to undermine the parental role.
We believe that the only complete solution to the danger confronting
the child-parent relationship is a federal Parental Rights Amendment,
which will place current Supreme Court doctrine protecting parental
rights into the explicit text of the Constitution. HSLDA is
partnering with parentalrights.org in support of this amendment.
To learn more about protecting parental rights, and to sign the
parental rights petition, please visit www.parentalrights.org.
Thank you for your support!
Very truly yours,
Michael P. Donnelly, Esq.
HSLDA Staff Attorney
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Jan. 14, 2008
Speaking of Science- this is from 'Homeschool Heartbeat'
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Daily Transcript
Program Audio--Click here to Listen Online.
The Importance of Science
Volume 79, Program 31
1/14/2008
Do you sometimes struggle with teaching your kids science? This week on Home School Heartbeat, Mike Smith talks with Dr. Arthur Robinson, who gives his advice on what homeschooling parents should be thinking about when they teach science.
Mike:
This week, I’m joined by Dr. Arthur Robinson, biochemist, President of the Oregon Institute of Science and Medicine, and author of the well-known Robinson Curriculum. Dr. Robinson, tell us why you think it’s important for homeschoolers to have a strong science background in their curriculum?
Dr. Robinson:
Well, firstly, because science is so important in the world today. Science underlies the technology and engineering and most of the things that, one way or another, affect our modern life. But more importantly for the homeschooler, mathematics and science are an excellent way of learning to think. In the old days, centuries ago, scholars studied primarily the classics and the humanities. The idea was to train their minds to be able to think. And they studied the most complicated or most rigorous things known at their time. However, today we have mathematics and science, which are rigorous, are true, and serve as an excellent medium to train any human mind, regardless of what he plans to do in life. So, science is something that people should know about, but it also serves as an excellent way of training a child’s mind, regardless of what he plans to pursue in life.
Mike:
Well, thank you, Dr. Robinson. Please join us again tomorrow as we talk more about science and homeschooling.
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