HThe eraldEastern Christian School Association

SUMMER 2004 VOL. 44 ~ ISSUE 02 Celebrating Awards, Promotions & Achievements I M E A T T O REJ ICE Praising God O for Blessings of Art & Music CELEBRATING “A Coast-to-Coast Partnership In The Arts” By Meghann Persenaire, ECHS & ECMS Vocal Music Teacher

he “Coast-to-Coast Partnership In The Arts” began as a graduate field work project for EC music teacher TMeghann Persenaire and EC art teacher Stacy Wieringa, both graduate students at Teachers College, Columbia University in New York City. The partnership has two main objectives: First and foremost, it is a celebration of Christian education and the quality of Christian education offered from coast to coast. Secondly, it is a celebration of the arts, celebrating the way educators and students use the arts to praise their Creator. Students from Eastern Christian School were partnered with students from Ripon Christian School in northern California, guided by their teacher Mari Schuller. They communicated both informally EC sophomores Katherine Vander Wende and formally, using communication prompts provided by the teachers. Beyond these assignments, the and Deanna Cirino (left) welcome three members of Ripon Christian’s choir. students also evaluated each other’s music and art. For example, students from EC Chamber Singers used technology to record their choral music literature and sent it to Ripon Christian School with an ensemble evaluative grading rubric. Students from Ms.Wieringa’s art class created art to express the texts of the choral music studied by Eastern and Ripon Christian Schools. (See separate article and photos on pg. 2) The learning that took place was far-reaching and extraordinary. Through this partnership, students examined community and the role of their school in the broader community context. Ripon Christian School is located in the San Joaquin Valley, an agricultural center, whereas our students live in a more populated area, a “bedroom”community of New York City. Students explored the role of the arts within each community and the support given to the arts by their communities. More importantly, we devel- oped a vision and created a plan - a plan to enable the arts to thrive in Christian schools and communities EC Chamber Singers Director Meghann across the United States. In light of the learning in and through the arts, we received support from our Persenaire and Ripon Christian’s Choir communities, administrators, faculties and parents. In addition, we received support from our supervising Director Mari Schuller professors at Teachers College, Columbia University. The first special event as part of the partnership occurred in May of this year when students and parent chaperones from Ripon Christian School traveled to Eastern Christian School. Both EC and Ripon students took part in professional-level music and art events in New York City, and they presented a concert and art show on May 14. The students enjoyed getting to know each other personally and performing together, and the audiences appreciated their efforts. For the second part of the partnership, students and parents from Eastern Christian School will travel to Ripon Christian School from March 16-20, 2005. Again, they will take part in professional-level music and art events in San Francisco, California and present a concert and art show. So far, this project has successfully provided unique educational challenges and learning experiences. We look forward to what God has in EC and Ripon students ready to perform together our future for making music and doing art together. Contents

COMMENCEMENT 2 ~ 5 Smile & Celebrate HThe erald SUMMER 2004 VOL. 44 ~ ISSUE 02 6 ~7 ECHS NEWS Art Show Highlights EDITOR Gail B. Beverly

BOARD PRESIDENT David Simcox ECMS NEWS 8 ~10 8th Graders Graduate SUPERINTENDENT Gilbert P. Kitchen

HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL Jan A. Lucas 11 ~ 12 EC SPORTS Spring Season Summaries MIDDLE SCHOOL PRINCIPAL Florence Nieuwenhuis

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL ECES & PRESCHOOL NEWS Richard Van Yperen 13 ~ 16 Special Yearend Chapels ADMISSIONS DIRECTOR Janyce Bandstra

PHOTOGRAPHER ECSA NEWS Mark Lucas 17 ~ 19 Service Awards & Spring Events WRITER/EDITOR’S ASSISTANT Beth Milkamp

DESIGN ALUMNI NEWS Yellow House Graphic Design 20 ~ 22 Class News & Reunions www.yellowhousedesign.com

PRINTER Lont & Overkamp Prospect Park, NJ 23 ~ 24 DESIGNATED GIFTS In Memory & In Honor

The Herald is the quarterly magazine for alumni, parents and friends of Eastern Christian School. The mailing ABOUT THE COVER address for Eastern Christian School Association is: 50 Oakwood Ave, North Haledon, NJ 07508-2449. To reach Pictured on the cover are the following students: us by phone, call 973-427-6244 or 973-427-9294. Eastern Christian School’s e-mail address for the Development EC Preschoolers Skylar Brown, Adrian Brown, Office is: [email protected]. Our web site address is: www.easternchristian.org. Connor Van Hoff & Paul Labib at their “gradua- Letters, articles, artwork, and color or black & white photos are welcome for possible inclusion in The Herald. Art and photos will be returned when a SASE is included. Send all correspondence regarding publication to: tion” ceremony; ECES Fourth Grader Jeremy Editor, The Herald at the address listed above. Bongiovanni with his promotion certificate; All Address Changes, Alumni News items, and Memorial or Honor gifts should be sent to the attention of ECMS 8th Grade Co-valedictorians Rachel Flim the ECSA Development Office at the address above. Items for Alumni News should be identified by class year. and Erica Lotz; and ECHS Co-valedictorians Eastern Christian School is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges & Schools and is a Steven Link and Laura Vander Neut. member of Christian Schools International. Reproduction of The Herald in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. HThe erald

ECHS Graduate “Press on” in Christ as a Awards & Honors Member of His Community National / State Recognitions

Edward J. Bloustein Distinguished Scholars ECHS Commencement 2004 This state scholarship program selects students he day dawned full of anticipation! Gradually more and who are in the top 10% of their class and who have more of the sun’s beams peaked through the clouds and a combined SAT score of 1260, or have a rank of 1st, T 2nd or 3rd in their class. They are awarded a began to shine down on the front lawn of ECHS. During the four-year $1000 scholarship if they attend a NJ days, weeks and years prior, a variety of people had worked dili- college. This year’s Distinguished Scholars are: gently and tirelessly to prepare for this day of commencement Steven Link Joel Vander Eems – a tribute to the fact that the seniors in the graduating Class of Andrew Poalillo Laura Vander Neut 2004 were surrounded by a caring, Christian community of Daniel Sunden teachers, staff members and EC supporters. As the afternoon passed, the sun warmed the carefully National Merit Scholarship Program Commended Scholar: manicured lawn and the flowers which spelled out “EC 2004.” For outstanding performance on the PSAT Qualifying The members of the maintenance crew had labored to secure Test – 96th percentile Andrew Poalillo and Kimberly Bushoven walk down the aisle as the ceremony begins the bleachers for the graduates, set up chairs for each graduate, Kathleen Kuever and line up straight rows of white chairs for all the guests on either side of the aisle whose center was the towering flagpole. The new podium built by an EC Society of Women Engineers Certificate of Merit for Excellence in Science and Mathematics: parent displayed a new EC emblem created by an EC alumna. Soon the audio crew came to set up the sound system so that all could hear the ceremony’s various speakers. The band members along Olivia Tornick with some extra volunteer musicians started bringing out stands and instrument cases. The boxes American Scholastic Mathematics Association containing the programs, carefully prepared by the office staff, were carried out to where tickets would Highest Score for EC Math Club: be received by a group of Junior Honor Guard members. continued on page 3 Tae Hyoung (Chris) Kim

President’s Education Awards The President’s Education Award is given to stu- The “Coast-to-Coast Partnership in dents who have attained a cumulative 3.5 grade point average or above. Their award is also based the Arts” – Part 2 on a set of criteria including having an 85th percentile in Math or Reading on standardized tests. By Stacy Wieringa, ECHS Art /Design Tech. Teacher This year’s honored students are: Timothy Bartlam Alex Noyes nother way to phrase one of the important goals Go to http://www.easternchristian.org Benjamin Bruins Tyler Olson Afor the “Coast-to-Coast Partnership in the Arts” to see more photos of student arwork Laura Dickey Andrew Poalillo experience, according to Art Teacher Stacy Wieringa, is to say Thomas Henion Melanie Rodriguez Tae Hyoung Kim Leigh Silbernagel that the goal is “… to push the students toward excellence by Lauren Kranz Daniel Sunden having them partner with their peers in another school — Kathleen Kuever William Tolsma Ripon Christian High School in California.” Steven Link Olivia Tornick One aspect of this special project was to have students from Lindsay Litland Joel Vander Eems Ms.Wieringa’s art class create art to express the texts of the choral Sean Malnati Laura Vander Neut music studied by both choirs. Sixteen EC art students in Art II, Principal’s Leadership Award Graphic Design and Art AP also agreed to teach their peers about Demonstrated ability to combine academic art. They each chose a theme of interest and selected 10 to 15 Lauren’s work was created in response to the excellence and exemplary leadership roles in artworks based around that theme to describe to the Ripon and song “Sing to the Power of the Lord Come school and community activities: Down” (Lyrics: Jesus, Jesus how I love thee. EC choir students when they visited the New York Metropolitan Shout Hallelujah! Praise His Holy name! Must Leigh Silbernagel Museum of Art. One sample of the results of this curricular Jesus Bear the cross alone, and all the world go free? No, there’s a cross for every one and Prudential Certificate of Merit (Community Service): exercise revolves around the work of student Lauren De Jong. there’s a cross for me. Praise Him!!) Shaun Patterson PAGE 2 SUMMER 2004 HThe erald PRESS ON continued from page 2 Cars started arriving, filled with graduates, parents, grandparents, friends, teachers, former ECHS Graduate teachers, and EC alumni. Still wondering about the Awards & Honors weather, they greeted each other, hugged their Scholarship & Awards graduate, and took some last-minute photos while Given By ECHS the seniors stood in their caps and gowns. Board members took their places around the perimeter ECHS Great Achievement in the Visual Arts Recognition: marked by colorful flags. The stage was soon set for Taryn Backus Kelly Kuiken the band to begin playing and the graduates and the Kimberly Bushoven Donghee Kyung Scott Bushoven Tyler Olson Superintendent Gilbert Kitchen was chosen by the seniors ECHS teachers to line up, two by two.As the strains to give the commencement address EunBee Cho Joshua Park of “Pomp and Circumstance” were heard, the Shannon Duffy Arielle Passenti smiling seniors walked down the aisle and proud relatives’cameras flashed. Brad Huther Julie Siervo Teacher Michael Alsum called upon God to bless this occasion and to be present with all of those Lauren Kranz Daniel Westra involved in this special event. A quartet of graduating seniors then led the audience in the singing of Music Department Awards: “Be Thou My Vision.”The chorus put thoughts of troublesome weather behind all as they sang: Laura Dickey Kristi Lyman “High king of heaven, my victory won, Tom Henion Jonathan Shaffstall May I reach heaven’s joys, O bright heaven’s sun Steve Link Kevin Van Schepen Heart of my own heart, whatever befall, Still be my vision, O Ruler of all.” Mathematics Awards: This year’s co-valedictorians, Steven Link and Laura Vander Shaun Patterson Laura Vander Neut Neut, continued the theme of the importance of a Christian Science Awards: community in their interactive address entitled, “Growing From Shaun Patterson Dan Sunden Tradition.” (See the full text on the next page.) Steve talked of the consistent support from the teachers throughout his many years Seniors (L to R) Jane Fylstra, Julie Nienhouse, English Department Awards: growing up within the EC school system, saying that he was Kevin Van Schepen and Tom Henion led the Rebecca Hersh Laura Vander Neut continued on page 27 audience in singing “Be Thou My Vision.” continued on page 4

Graduating Class of 2004: Front Row, Left to Right: Lindsay Coole, Kristen Pine, Chelsea Locklear, Krista Burke, Elizabeth Engelsdorfer, Unice Askew, Taryn Backus, Rebecca Hersh, Shannon Duffy, Olivia Tornick, Kari Vander Weit, Arielle Passenti, Christine Spinelli, Elizabeth Vervoordt, Nicole Lebron, Nicole Hadley, Thurmeka Ward, Jennifer Bunch; Second Row: Joshua Park, Tyler Olson, Amanda Kuiken, Hellen Gil-Fernandez, Kimberly Bushoven, Kelly Kuiken, Jane Fylstra, Larissa Troast, Sarah Veenema, Laura Vander Neut, Kelly Braunius, Sei Young Noah, Eun Bee Cho, Stephanie Webb, Kristina Lyman, Julie Siervo, Kathleen Kuever, Jennie Hotsenpiller, Jordan Bross; Third Row: John Avanzato, Patricia Askew, Melanie Rodriguez, Leigh Silbernagel, Laura Dickey, Lauren Kranz, Katie Den Hollander, Lindsay Litland, Cheri Troast, Samantha Sietsma, Julie Nienhouse, Katie Kyung, Eun Hee Cho, Tim Tanzola, Timothy Bartlam, Clifford Simon, Jonathon Shaffstall. Fourth Row: Daniel Sunden, Andrew Poalillo, Daniel Westra, Sean Malnati, Joel Vander Eems, Joseph Bongiovanni, Scott Bushoven, Jason Carelis, Benjamin Bruins, Steven Link, Shaun Patterson, Keith Klingen, Mark Peters, Christopher Lynch, Nicholas Lindemulder; Fifth Row: Tae Hyoung Kim, Brad Huther, Jonathan Goehring, Michael DeMarco, Preston Tate, Giancarlo Morelli, Bret Roukema, Matthew Kelly, William Tolsma, Bryan Woudenberg, Kyle Van Dolan, Alex Noyes; Sixth Row: Andrew Graglia, Sean Fischer, Thomas Henion, Donghyun Kim, Kevin Van Schepen, David Van Schepen, Brian Genzink, Ryan Ten Kate, Reid Parker, Justin Ydo, Barrett Brauch, Kenton Sybesma.

PAGE 3 SUMMER 2004 HThe erald

AWARDS continued from page 3

Theater Awards: ECHS Valedictory: A Dialogue Jane Fylstra Jon Shaffstall Bible & Life Award by Co-Valedictorians Steven Link and Laura Vander Neut Andrew Poalillo teve: Throughout my years at Eastern Brett Zuidema Endowed Nursing Scholarship SChristian, I have had some incredible Kristen Pine and memorable teachers and faculty members that have been there consis- French Language Award tently to help support me not only edu- Kathleen Kuever cationally, but also in my personal life. I Harold Phillips Vocational Scholarship have made connections with many of my Julie Nienhouse former teachers and faculty that I had High School Faculty Award in elementary, middle, and high school; and they have been a constant source of Andrew Poalillo inspiration and encouragement. Over the Hoitsma-Jeffer Scholarship Award years I have done a lot of activities, from Pictured on the cover are Co-valedictorians Laura Vander Neut (center) Tim Bartlam and Steven Link (far right) They are also NJ Edward J. Bloustein Distinguished playing tuba in local churches to play- Humanities & Social Science Award Scholars along with fellow graduates (L to R) Andrew Poalillo, Daniel ing in various athletic events; and every Sunden and Joel Vander Eems pictured time I do something, I have been show- Leigh Silbernagel ered with heartening words that I will treasure forever. I can remember playing my tuba at Midland Presidential Freedom Scholarship Park Church last year, and a teacher I had in elementary school came up to me after the service, Josh Park congratulated me and wished me the best in my future endeavors. It is an awesome thing not to be Spanish Award forgotten by people,and it’s even more amazing to be embraced by them almost a decade later. Not only have past teachers continued to inspire me, but I also have been inspired by the faculty over the Nicole Lebron past four years, and especially over the course of this year. In the halls, in the office, and even in the class- Stringer Nursing Scholarship room I have been encouraged and congratulated immensely. With each inspiring word I felt the love Kristin Pine of Christ and that made my day so much more fulfilled. What touched me the most, however, was to Richard J. Vander Plaat Service Award learn that many of these individuals were continually praying for my growth academically, athletically,

Josh Park and spiritually. It is the memories of these men and women I’ll remember that will continue to inspire me in all that I do in the future, and my hope is that I may be an inspiration to others in the future. Technology Department Award Laura: After coming to EC from a large public school, I was pleasantly surprised by the attitudes of Brett Roukema the faculty and staff at Eastern Christian. At my old school I had a couple Christian teachers who were great role models,but at EC we are all blessed with this great Christian example that can be seen in all our teachers. At the beginning of the year my family received a card written by Mrs. Stout saying that the faculty had prayed for me one morning during their devotions. Even after attending EC for a year, I was surprised! I thought, “Hey, I’m not just a number in this school, they really care about me.” These prayers and numerous other actions by our teachers fit right in with the rich Christian tradition at Eastern Christian. In addition to this tradition, the teachers here are also diverse in age and background. The growing diversity of teachers has helped the students here to learn from differing experiences and perspectives. EC has been growing more diverse not only in its faculty, but in its student body. Coming into EC, I was skeptical about entering a community that I had heard was tight knit and set in its ways. However, when I entered school two years ago I did not find it to be a negative quality of EC. I was welcomed into EC and have found that the school is tight knit not only because of the generations of families attending and supporting this school, but also because of the Christian bond that the people here share. The Eastern Christian community opens its arms to students of different backgrounds while maintaining traditions that have gone on for years. This year we have embraced diversity at Eastern Christian High School in our chapel services, in activities, and in National Honor Society. At an NHS meeting a few months ago, a group was listing different cultures that are represented in our school that could be included in a multicultural week for the student body. These ideas ranged from Korean to Jewish, but, of course, also included Dutch. After being at EC for two years I know that this school is a place that embraced newcomers and diversity while still holding on to its roots. Steve: I have seen so much change over the years throughout the Eastern Christian student body and community. Up until my freshman year of high school, the EC community was pretty much the same, and many of my classmates would probably agree with me: kids lived pretty much in the same area and EC was predominantly Dutch, predominantly made up of EC alumni’s children (myself included), and predominantly of the Christian Reformed religious background. For many it was stifling and kept us from experiencing the diversity of God’s creation. Now the EC community is much more diverse and more encompassing – students of various ethnic backgrounds, religious experiences, and from vastly differing communities have augmented the EC continued on page 5 PAGE 4 SUMMER 2004 HThe erald

ECHS VALEDICTORY continued from page 4 community and have given students a more enriching experience while in the school system.I have made many new friends that I never would have met had it not been for Eastern Christian, and they are Post Graduation Plans – people that I have created life-long memories with throughout my high school experience. EC had gotten a bad reputation in the past for educating students in a “bubble,” but as Laura described in Class of 2004 Patricia Unice Askew Elizabeth Marie Engelsdorfer her experience of coming to EC, I feel that image has been eliminated and our school can be a more Calvin College Nyack College, NY enjoyable place to learn and an easier place for newer students to fit in. Unice Patricia Askew Sean Michael Fischer It is so important that each student get the most out of their education here at Eastern Christian, Bloomfield College or Bergen Lincoln Technical Institute, NJ Community Kara Dawn Fisher because a Christian education has been so integral to my life over the past 14 years. It was a pleasure to be John Jacob Avanzato Calvin College, MI able to go to school everyday with other Christians and be able to pray and worship at will without the risk Eastern University, PA Jane Erin Fylstra of reprehension. We live in a time in America where religion is slowly being removed from society, where Taryn Lindsay Backus Calvin College, MI University of the Arts – Brian Michael Genzink Philadelphia, PA the words “under God”are questioned as to their constitutional legitimacy,and where a monument of the Calvin College, MI Ten Commandments can be hauled away because of issues regarding the separation of church and state.Even Timothy Mac Lean Bartlam Hellen Andrea Gil Fernandez Calvin College, MI in this time of religious repression, we could come to this school and learn about God, His amazing cre- Bergen Community College, NJ Joseph Daniel Bongiovanni Jonathan Hansjorg Goehring ation and the ultimate plan that he has for each and every one of us while freely expressing our love to Him Lehigh University, PA Geneva College, PA Barrett William Brauch Andrew Scott Graglia through prayer. It was beneficial to be presented everyday with the truth about the world and God’s role Bergen Community College, NJ and influence in it through Christian-inspired lesson plans in each and every class. I feel prepared to Bergen Community College, NJ Kelly Nicole Braunius Nicole Alicia Hadley enter college and the workplace with what I have learned and acquired about society,with my faith in Jesus Montclair State University, NJ St. John’s University, NY Christ continuing to influence every choice I make. I can almost guarantee that I would be a completely Jordan Matthew Bross Dong Yoon Han Gordon College, MA Northeastern University, MA different person had I not attended Eastern Christian Schools, and I have my parents, my brother Mike, Benjamin Francis Bruins Thomas John Henion along with the students and teachers of the Eastern Christian community to thank for that. James Madison University, VA Messiah College, PA Laura: Although a Christian education has not always been a part of my life, it has also shaped me Jennifer Leigh Bunch Rebecca Anne Hersh Bergen Community College, NJ Loyola University of New Orleans, in many ways. Opening every school day with prayer and devotions has been an awesome experience Krista Ann Burke LA that I have loved while being at EC. I feel like I know my Block 1 class very well because of the time Bloomfield College, NJ Jennifer Lynne Hotsenpiller Kimberly Ann Bushoven California Baptist University, CA we spend with prayer requests. Actually, I feel like I practically know their families too. These kinds of Eastern University, PA Brad Gregory Huther experiences cannot be had at a public school, and I encourage EC students not to take this for granted. The Scott Douglas Bushoven Bergen Community College, NJ Christian education that we have received here is something that we will carry with us for the rest Western New England College, MA Matthew David Kelly Jason Peter Carelis York College of Pennsylvania, PA of our lives and will help us in the decisions we must make in the future. This education started in Eastern University, PA Donghyun Kim my own home, and I thank my family for instilling these beliefs in me and also helping me to make the EunBee Cho Purdue University, West Lafayette, Parsons School of Design, NY IN most out of my time at EC. Eastern Christian can be appreciated for its rich traditions as well and for Eun Hee Cho Tae Hyoung Kim its new diversity and its willingness to accept this diversity. These traditions have given this commu- Pratt Institute, NY University of Illinois at Urbana, IL nity a strong foundation from which to grow as it continues to change for the better in the future. I Lindsay Karen Coole Keith Robert Klingen Ramapo College of New Jersey, NJ The King’s College, NY think I can speak for my entire class as I thank Eastern Christian for its support through its Michael Paul DeMarco Lauren Alexandra Kranz strong Christian foundation and its willingness to embrace everyone, both of which can Bergen Community College, NJ Ramapo College of New Jersey, NJ Katie Ann Den Hollander Kathleen Erin Kuever be seen in its Christian curriculum, its faculty, and its student body. Eastern University, PA The College of New Jersey, NJ Laura Elizabeth Dickey Amanda Joy Kuiken York College of Pennsylvania, PA Eastern University, PA Matthew Joseph Duffy Kelly Anne Kuiken Bergen Community College, NJ Roberts Wesleyan College, NY Shannon Kathleen Duffy University of the Arts – continued on page 6 Philadelphia, PA

The following students placed first and second by Colin (C.J.) Barrett won 1st Place in the WaterColor/Tempera category. category in the Art Show:

Best in Show WaterColor/Tempera Pencil Artists Display a Variety of Talents At the end of the school year Taryn Backus 1st place: Colin Barrett 1st place: Sarah Choi the High School students who have taken an art or graphic design Oil & Acrylic 2nd place: Tyler Olson 2nd place: Sarah Choi class are invited to enter their best work in the Art Show. This Pen & Ink Pastel year’s winners were – Back Row: Jon Cheresnick, Josh Park, Tyler 1st place: Sylvia Cho Olson, and Jae Hyun Cho; Middle Row: C.J. Barrett, Thurmeka 2nd place: Josh Park 1st place: Sylvia Cho 1st place: Taryn Backus Ward, Taryn Backus, Mike Kraai, and Erin Oppelaar; Front Row: 2nd place: Mike Kraai 2nd place: Thurmeka Ward Jordan Bross, Rebecca Rivera, Elyse DeJong, and Sarah Choi continued on page 6 HThe erald

PLANS continued from page 5

Donghee Kyung Samantha Lynn Sietsma Carnegie Mellon University, PA York College of Pennsylvania, PA The Joy of Math Club Nicole Marie Lebron Leigh Anne Silbernagel Seton Hall University, NJ The College of New Jersey, NJ Seung Hyop Lee Clifford Armand Michael By Deborah Andrews, ECHS Math Teacher State University of New York at Simon Binghamton, NY York College of Pennsylvania, PA he ECHS Math Club was formed in the Nicholas Rienk Lindemulder Christine Noelle Spinelli 2002-2003 school year after several stu- Work & United States Coast Guard Nyack College, NY T Reserves Daniel Andrew Sunden dents had participated in the TRIG-STAR Steven James Link Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, NY Competition, sponsored by the National The College of New Jersey, NJ Kenton William Sybesma Society of Professional Surveyors.Math Club Lindsay Anne Litland Houghton College, NY Wheaton College, IL Timothy Joseph Tanzola meets during the Activities period once a Chelsea Marie Locklear York College of Pennsylvania, PA week and averages 7 to 10 members. The Gordon College, MA Preston Aaron Tate members competed in the Annual AMT NJ Kristina Joy Lyman Bergen Community College, NJ Reformed Bible College, MI Ryan Glenn TenKate Mathematic Contest (Association of Math Christopher William Lynch Work Teachers of New Jersey) during both years. William Paterson University, NJ Renee Catherine Tokarski (L to R) Seated: Tae-Hyong (Chris) Kim, Eun Ho Choi, Josh Kang; Standing: This is a monthly contest running from Sean Cameron Malnati Southeastern College, FL James Madison University, VA Dong Hyun Kim, Shaun Patterson, Faculty Sponsor Deborah Andrews, William Andrew Tolsma October to March, and ECHS has finished Sean Tanner (TRIG-STAR Competition winner), and Nick Kwon. Giancarlo Umberto Morelli Calvin College, MI in 2nd place both years. In this contest the Palm Beach Atlantic University, FL Olivia Whitney (Segal) Tornick members compete with other High Schools in the USA as well as a few other nations. Julie Beth Nienhouse Stevens Institute of Technology, NJ HoHoKus School of Business, NJ Cheri Beth Troast During the 2003-2004 school year the Club also competed in the Joseph W. Andrushkiw Seiyoung Noah Eastern University, PA Mathematics Competition at Seton Hall University. EC’s Math Team earned 2nd place in the American Fashion Institute of Technology, NY Larissa Ann Troast Scholastic Mathematics Association competition. This is a huge accomplishment since this is an Alexander Crawford Noyes Nyack College, NY Wagner College, NY international competition! Congratulations to Chris Kim,EC’s highest scoring student. Kyle Robert Van Dolan Tyler Ming Olson Bergen Community College, NJ Azusa Pacific College, CA David James Van Schepen TRIG-STAR COMPETITION Joshua David Park Cedarville University, OH Friends World Program Long Island Eastern Christian High School has competed in the TRIG-STAR Competition since 2001. A TRIG- University, NY Kevin John Van Schepen Campbell University, NC STAR is a mathematics student who has demonstrated, in competition, that he/she is the most skilled Reid Matthew Parker Bergen Community College, NJ Joel Nathan Vander Eems among classmates in the practical application of Trigonometry. The competition for this honor is a James Madison University, VA Arielle Danae Passenti timed exercise that involves the solving of a trigonometry problem that incorporates the use of Purchase College of State Laura Ann Vander Neut University of NY, NY Calvin College, MI right triangle formulas, the law of sines and the law of cosines. Participants in this year’s first test of Shaun Remsen Patterson Kari Ann Vander Weit the TRIG-STAR competition were: Sean Tanner, Dan Sunden, Ka-Young Kim, Shaun Patterson, Stevens Institute of Technology, NJ Ramapo College of New Jersey, NJ John Van Buiten,Chris Kim,Nick Kwon,Philip Joo,Katie Kyung,Andrew Poalillo,D.K.Kim,EunHo Mark Christopher Peters Sarah Robin Veenema Bergen Community College, NJ Eastern University, PA Choi and Tyler Olson. Sean Tanner came in first place for ECHS, and he also achieved 2nd place in Kristen Elizabeth Pine Elizabeth Grace Vervoordt the New Jersey State contest. Congratulations, Sean! Liberty University, VA Bergen Community College, NJ Advisor Deb Andrews summarized, “These two math contests deal with the subjects of Andrew James Poalillo Thurmeka Shonta Ward Ramapo College of New Jersey, NJ St. John’s University, NY geometry, probability, non-routine math, real analysis and algebraic reasoning.” She went on to say, Melanie Rodriguez Stephanie Michelle Webb “It is such a joy to work with students who are gifted in mathematics and enjoy it as much as Southeastern College, FL Kean University, NJ I do. It is exciting to see them do so well in the competitions. Working with Math Club allows Bret Kevin Roukema Daniel Wayne Westra Berkeley College, NJ Eastern University, PA students to apply mathematical concepts that they have learned in their classes in a fun, Jonathan Richard Shaffstall Bryan Eric Woudenberg competitive way. It builds up their confidence in their math ability when they see they are right Dordt College, IA Bergen Community College, NJ up there with other high school students in the USA. I am very proud of them all.” Julie Marie Siervo Justin Edward Ydo Bergen Community College, NJ Bergen Community College, NJ ART SHOW WINNERS continued from page 5 Pottery 1st place: Elyse De Jong 2nd place: Ken Brand Sculpture 1st place: Jon Cheresnick 2nd place: Erin Oppelaar Mixed Media 1st place: Sylvia Cho 2nd place: Jae Cho Graphic Design Taryn Backus won “Best in Show” and 1st Place for Thurmeka Ward received the 2nd Place Sylvia (Eun Bee) Cho won 1st Place Pastel/Charcoal Drawing. 1st place: Becca Rivera prize for her Pastel/Charcoal Drawing in the Mixed Media Category 2nd place: Jordan Bross HThe erald

Escorting the Olympic Torch Bringing History to Life Through NYC By Ms. Jena Cooksey, ECHS Social Studies Teacher

ho inspires you? That was the key criteria listed by the Coca-Cola During her visit WCompany’s Escort Runner Program for the Olympic Torch Relay from Wisconsin through New York City in June. The challenge presented to the ECHS stu- Lena Cooksey, dent body was to nominate a fellow classmate to accompany an Olympic mother of ECHS Torchbearer via writing an essay that focused on qualities such as being a Social Studies teacher Jena person who inspires you. Cooksey, spoke to Seven ECHS students were nominated by their peers to participate seniors in two US as Olympic Torch Relay Escort Runners in New York City this past June: History2 classes Mary Tolsma Dan Sunden Dominic Rivera about her true-life Shaun Patterson Jane Fylstra Andrew Poalillo Art Vooys tale of injustice experienced dur- Through the efforts of EC alumnus William Vander Meulen’s ing the Civil Rights Guest Speaker Lena Cooksey company, arrangements were made for all of the student runners to be movement in the 1950s and 1960s. Students from photographed with NYC Mayor Bloomberg on June 18th at Gracie Mansion. Art Vooys with an both of these history classes joined together to par- The Olympic Relay was held throughout New York City on June 19th, Olympic torch. ticipate in an “In-School Justice Day Field Trip” that ending up at Times Square. This great experience included highlighted their studies about justice during a very some especially memorable moments. During the influential time period in American history. Students opening segment of the run, Jane Fylstra ran with gave presentations, worked in groups, watched films and discussed current racial issues. Bob Beamon, an NYC native known for his Olympic record-breaking long jumps. Art Vooys ran next to The students were thankful to hear the stories that musician and NYC Marathon runner Sean (P.Diddy) Mrs. Cooksey shared. According to their teacher, Combs, and Dan Sunden ran with Nadia Komenich, they felt the necessity to learn about and wrestle Gold Medal Olympic Champion in gymnastics. This was with justice issues. Ms. Cooksey added, “This was an event to remember for a lifetime! an all-time high for me as a teacher. To have my mother share her life with my students was an amazing way to integrate faith in learning and bring our school subjects to life!” Senior Received Special Scholarship

he Sam Braen Memorial Scholarship,offered by Mrs.Janet Braen of Braen Stone Industries Inc., Go to in the amount of $1,500 was given to Clifford Simon in memory of her husband, Sam Braen. www.easternchristian.org T to read about Senior Andrew Barbara Vander Wiele, Manager of Community Relations, made the presentation, with these words: Poalillo achieving the rank of “Congratulations! The Braen family and everyone at Braen Stone Industries, Inc., Eagle Scout. wishes you all the best in your college years. The Braens have been truly blessed and there- fore want to give back some of what God has given them. So they are very pleased to present this scholarship to Cliff Simon.” Principal Jan Lucas responded with appreciation to Mrs. Braen and to Braen Stone Industries, Inc., for their generosity, saying: “Thank you for the time and energy devoted to making this scholarship available to an Eastern Christian senior. Cliff has consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and good academic potential as a student here at Eastern Christian and is certain to continue his academic momentum at York College of Pennsylvania. Your generous scholarship will help Cliff achieve his academic goals. We also wish to thank Barbara Vander Wiele for her help with the logistics and for coming to school to personally present the scholarship to Cliff. We are most grateful to you for your support and would welcome the opportunity to make the Braen Stone Industries scholarship available to our students in the future.”

PAGE 7 SUMMER 2004 HThe erald ECMS Celebrates its First Graduation in the New Gym!

by Valeri Jean Shafer, ECMS Language Arts Teacher

n June 17, 2004, Eastern Christian Middle School room-only audience. (Ed. Note: See separate article) Oheld its 8th Grade Graduation in the new, air- After the co-valedictorians finished speaking,Emily conditioned gymnasium. The ceremony began with Engelsdorfer, Jenna Greenfield, Sara Troast, and the graduate processional and was opened in prayer Kristina Winters sang “Amazing Grace.” Each of these by Sharon Augsburger, ECMS teacher and mother graduates sang a verse individually; then they joined of graduate Rachel Augsburger. She asked God’s bless- together for the last stanza.Their only accompaniment ings to be upon the graduates as they continued their was the rain and thunder echoing throughout the gym. education in high school. Salutatorian Mie Hea Park ECSA Superintendent Gilbert Kitchen deliv- welcomed teachers, parents, board members, and ered the commencement address. He selected a text friends, and on behalf of her fellow graduates, she from The Sermon on the Mount that the 8th grade thanked them for being a part of God’s plan for their students had studied with Bible teacher Betsy Tyvoll. lives and for supporting the students throughout their Salutatorian Mie Hea Park offers the welcome and Mr. Kitchen spoke regarding the time after Jesus had middle school years. Her prayer for the graduates was opening remarks. finished the sermon, when He tells the people, “You that they would use their lives to bring honor to God in all of their future are the salt of the earth.” Mr. Kitchen used several analogies to get the endeavors. The eighth grade then asked the audience to join them in singing, graduates to have not only a feel for the message, but a taste for it as well. “Be Thou My Vision,” accompanied by graduate Rachel Augsburger. “After all,” he said, “What is a hamburger without salt?”Why did Mr. Kitchen Principal Florence Nieuwenhuis gave recognition to those students who choose the theme of “salt”for this class? First, because of the flavor it adds. had been honored by President George Bush, Jr. for academic excellence while Salt adds flavor, much as these students have added flavor to ECMS, so that in middle school.Almost twenty percent of the graduating class received these others might enjoy them and enjoy Jesus because of them. Second, because awards. Among those awarded were Rachel Flim and Erica Lotz,Co- of the fact that salt heals. He reminded the students to be a healing agent with Valedictorians for the Class of 2004. These two students were chosen because one another. Third, because of the thirst salt produces. He challenged the of their academic achievements and because, as Mrs. Nieuwenhuis stated, graduates to,”Create a thirst in others for Jesus Christ.” Most importantly, “They demonstrate the heart of what Eastern Christian Middle School is he said, “Don’t lose it! If you lose your saltiness, graduates, you are no longer about.” The two then shared in giving a valedictory address to the standing- good for anything!” continued on page 9

Congratulations to the ECMS Class of 2004: Front Row (L – R): Joseph Veenstra, Sara Troast, Benjamin Berry, Sean Duffy, Rachel Filippelli, Linley Thobourne, Seong Kwon, Caleb Hansford, Erica Lotz, Gabriel Kooreman, Katerine Halim; 2nd Row: Shaneia Gray, Shaun Jacobs, Crystal De Palma, Dane Martin, Francesca Gravinese, Vincent Criscenzo, Mie Hea Park, Michael Silbernagel, Rachel Flim, Kyle Jacobs, Alison Avila, Wung Jun Hwang, Evonne De Jong, Jeremy Boling; 3rd Row: Allison Visbeen, Kyle Klingler, Christina Johnston, Michael Dykhouse, Terri De Jong, Steven Horner, Rachel Augsburger, Nicole Struyk, Douglas Harrison, Danielle Hagedoorn, Mark Tolsma, Christopher Beggs, Dominique Siegel, Eric Postma, Randi Lynn Veenstra; 4th Row: Joseph Everett, Michael Siervo, John Burch, Rebecca Ydo, Katie Sagona, Jonathan Gorter, Christopher Milkamp, Schuyler Duffy, Emily Engelsdorfer, Anthony Cirino, Thomas Graglia, Steven Knorr, Christopher Tanzola, Katrina Biele, Steven Bosloper; 5th Row: Rebecca Noah, Matthew Leegwater, Joanna Switzer, Peter Okma, Emily Vriesema, Kevin Polulak, Kristin Czerminski, Jenna Greenfield, Andrew Davidson, Kathleen Granholm, Kyle Vandenberg, Kristina Winters, Paul Siljee, Joel Veenstra, Samantha de Waal Malefyt HThe erald ECMS GRADUATION continued from page 8 Following Mr. Kitchen’s message, the 8th grade students sang their class education. Mrs. Nieuwenhuis concluded, “We pray that you will ‘build your- song, “Because of Grace,” which had been written by their teacher, Mr. selves up in your most holy faith and pray in the Holy Spirit. Keep yourselves Sweetman. He led the graduates in singing while he accompanied them with in God’s love’ (Jude 20-21). Only through prayer, and continuing to build on a his guitar and harmonica. strong foundation, will this be possible.Your diploma represents one of the build- Finally, Mrs.Nieuwenhuis, who certified that all of the students had met ing blocks in your life. With the attainment of an ECMS diploma, you should the graduation requirements of ECMS, presented the graduates. Before ECSA truly feel a sense of accomplishment and achievement.We congratulate you and Board Vice President Richard Kuder presented the diplomas, Mrs. pray that God will continue to bless you!” Nieuwenhuis admonished the students to lead Godly lives, to become Godly After presentations of diplomas, Mrs. Joann Everett, ECMS teacher leaders, and to respond positively to Scripture. She told the graduates, “You and mother of graduate Joe Everett, led us in a closing prayer. She thanked are our future...the future of America, the future of the church, and the future of God for the wonderful milestone in the lives of these children, those who the Christian home.” She reminded them that they have been “building up” were entrusted to our care. As trumpets sounded, she asked that God give every area of their lives in order to become enabled to meet challenges that them wings to soar like eagles, to run and not grow weary, to walk, and not the future holds. They have had this opportunity, she said, because of be faint. She closed the evening as it opened, beseeching God’s blessings parents and grandparents who have made sacrifices for their Christian on this, the the Eastern Christian Middle School Class of 2004. Valedictorian Speech for the Class of 2004

by Co-Valedictorians Erica Lotz and Rachel Flim

we are ready to move on to Go to http://www.easternchristian.org to something bigger. We are read “Eighth Graders Go To Spruce Lake” ready to have new “stuff”to be amazed by. One important aspect of our education that influenced us was having international students join our class. They came to our school with very little knowledge of the English language.They learned to speak English very well and showed us what it means to keep at one thing until you get it right and not give up when something is difficult. These students modeled perseverance. During our middle school years, we have gone through a lot of changes. Co-Valedictorians Erica Lotz and Rachel Flim (far right) with fellow President’s Award for Our faith has matured and grown. We have learned to trust in God in what Educational Excellence Winners we do and think. o all teachers, Board members, parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, As all of you remember, September 11, 2001 was a shocking world event Tcousins, siblings, classmates, and other special guests: We would like to as well as a life-changing day. It affected our outlook on life and showed us the welcome you to this year’s 8th grade graduation ceremony. reality of the world. We saw that as we move on in life, things would not be Our theme this year was “Building on a Strong Foundation.” This theme as easy and carefree as before. Because of this event, we became closer to each was chosen because it applied to our school’s building project. As you prob- other and to God. ably know, the middle school addition included a new gym, music room, and Another world event that has art room that we all used regularly. These new rooms enhanced our learning taken place during our years in mid- and let us have more room to spread out and store things. To build a new dle school is the War in Iraq. Even structure, one must have a firm foundation on which to build. The same goes though we may not understand it, for our lives. We have to have a firm foundation to build our lives upon. we know that God is in control of Our firm foundation is Jesus. As it says in 1 Corinthians, “For no one can lay everything and we should trust in any foundation other than the one already laid which is Jesus Christ.” Him to care for the armed forces, to We have seen our theme “Building on a Strong Foundation” evident resolve the conflict and to restore the whole year. It has been applied in all of our classes and extra curricular peace to that region. Through all this, activities. We have also had chapels that demonstrated this idea and have we have learned to lean on Him in helped us learn to trust in God and to use Him as our strong foundation. times of hardship. We have gotten a lot of that important foundation from our four years here. Also this year another tragedy Looking back, we realize there are many memorable experiences that occurred closer to home in the have affected us in many different ways.We have accomplished many things Eastern Christian community.At the and have changed in many ways.When we first arrived here, we were amazed end of August there was a horrible because we were able to switch classes and have a locker all to ourselves. Now accident that claimed the life of a very continued on page 10 PAGE 9 SUMMER 2004 HThe erald

VALEDICTORIAN SPEECH continued from page 10 special girl, who would have been in sixth grade this year. That girl was Elise Gorter. She was a very Cinco de Mayo Celebration beautiful person and her death changed our lives forever. Her death made us realize that life is precious and that we shouldn’t waste our short lives on doing stuff we aren’t proud of. We should use our lives By Valeri Shafer, to honor and praise God and be a witness to Him even after we die, just as Elise has done. ECMS Spanish Teacher Now as a graduating class, we will be moving on to a new building on a new campus. All of our This year the 8th grade Spanish class, led by Ms. knowledge from middle school will be valuable as we move to the high school. Hopefully, we won’t Valeri Shafer, held its second annual Cinco de Mayo be confused about what we are learning because a good foundation has been laid in middle school. Celebration at the 3 Chicas Restaurant in Wyckoff. As friendships grow and change, we will rely on the truth we have been taught that Jesus is our model In order to prepare for the celebration, the students of a true friend. Our new experiences will be built on a strong foundation. first went to the ocean. Did they go swimming? Our school has been in existence for 112 years and we have had many good leaders who have Well, no, not really. They went to the ECMS Media been building on the strong foundation of Christ. One of those is Mr. Gil Kitchen who is leaving Center and “surfed” the web’s “ocean” of infor- his position as superintendent. We will be sad to see him go, as he was a wonderful leader and we mation. Here, the students looked for answers to appreciate all that he has done. We will all miss him very much and pray that God blesses him in his some questions: First, what is Cinco de Mayo? and new ministry. We will also miss Mr. Sweetman. He was a great science teacher and role model for also how, where and why is it celebrated? They also us. We wish him well as he leaves for Illinois to marry Jessica. asked, What are the typical foods eaten during We would like to thank our parents for all of the loving support and guidance they have given us. these festivities? They have guided us through our middle school years and have put up with all of our complaints. We would also like to thank the teachers. They have been a huge part of our learning experience and have The 8th graders learned that Cinco de Mayo is not taught us to keep on trying. All of the teachers have taught us to trust in God. They have shown us the the Mexican Independence Day. Instead, this hol- iday is in honor of the victory won in the town of way to live in accordance with His way. They also have taught us to act maturely. They have taught us to Puebla by the Mexican soldiers, in spite of the fact have and express our own ideas and opinions without trying to force their own ideas into our heads. that they were outnumbered and out-resourced. In First Corinthians it says, “For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field God’s build- This is not a holiday originally celebrated by the ing.” God has been building each and every one of us through Eastern Christian with our teachers, entire Hispanic community, but one that is specif- parents, youth leaders, pastors, and friends. As we leave middle school and enter high school, we ically celebrated in Mexico. Once students found will take all of our memories with us. this out, they then explored Mexican traditional foods and celebrations. By doing this research, stu- dents were able to make educated choices for their Fine Arts Festival: An Exhibition of Talent entrees at 3 Chicas. In two separate groups, each class traveled by bus By Sharon Augsburger, ECMS Music Teacher to the restaurant in Wyckoff, run by Lee Parker. Señor Parker treated us to chips and (caliente!) uring the week of April 19 eager and sometimes nervous salsa, a main course of burritos, enchiladas, DECMS students participated in their annual Fine Arts fajitas or taco salad, all accompanied by refried Festival. The festival involves competitions in areas of dance, beans (frijoles) and rice (arroz). Once our entrees instrumental and vocal music presentations, a Spelling Bee, Bible were finished, we were treated to our choice of rice Knowledge Bee, literature and poetry competitions as well as pudding, or the traditional Hispanic dessert of flan, visual art and oral communication contests. Students performed homemade by Señor Parker and his staff. We or submitted materials depending on the categories which they had a wonderful time and enjoyed the meal chose. Juries of local experts contributed their time to judge tremendously! ¡Vive Mexico! the artwork, literature, speech, dance and musical submissions, and all students were recognized for their participation. The Fine Arts Festival provides an opportunity for students to demonstrate their God-given gifts Dancer Amanda Touw and abilities for His glory and for the benefit of the entire student body. These opportunities are critical for the development of self-confidence and the discipline needed to excel in their chosen areas. Students commented: “Next year, I [will] win the Bible Bee!”“I love this – it’s the best week of school,” and “I knew how to spell the winning word in the spelling bee!” An ECMS teacher concluded,

Vocalist Jenna Greenfield “It is so good to see students succeed in areas in which they are so gifted.” Saxophonist Ethan Holly PAGE 10 SUMMER 2004 HThe erald

ECMS ECMS “Adopts”Two Soldiers Sports Highlights This past school year Mrs. Tyvoll’s 8th grade homeroom By Terry Allen, Athletic Director “adopted” two soldiers to support with prayer & letters. TRACK TEAM HIGHLIGHTS One of our soldiers, Specialist Michael Tanis (EC Class of his year the Middle School track teams had 45 members ’96) was stationed in Iraq for T(25 girls and 20 boys) and opened their season with meets approximately seven months. at Leonia and Waldwick.After the first few meets, team mem- During that time, Mike was bers improved in running, jumping and throwing techniques. able to distribute toys & gifts Specialist Mike Tanis pictured with some of the 8th graders who “adopted” him: Evonne De Jong, Kristin Czerminski, Dominque Siegel, Steven Knorr The first meets demonstrated some very fine skill and collected by his church to the local Iraqi children. The chil- and Kyle Jacobs. teamwork. Several school records had already been broken. dren assisted the soldiers in translating, introduced them to Iraqi food, and helped them learn By the end of the season, on a dual meet basis, the boys basic Arabic phrases. Upon his return, our homeroom gave him a reception. He spoke to the class, were 6-2 and the girls’team 3-5. Then approximately 25 ECMS answered many questions and showed pictures of his experiences. athletes prepared for the Ridgewood Invitational, a sort of Our second adopted soldier was Lt. Col. Larry Wilson, a relative of 8th grader Douglas mini “Olympics,” where our teams came in 4th out of Harrison. He was stationed in Kuwait for two years and has returned home this past April. 18 schools. During a two-week leave in November, Lt. Col. Wilson visited our school with his family, It was a good season with many advances both ipsatively spoke to the 8th grade class and answered many questions during a celebration in his honor. (personal records) and normatively (school records broken). Lt. Col. Wilson commented about the awesome experience of visiting local sites where Congratulations to the Eagles and “thank you” for all the events in the Bible took support their fans showed in coming to meets, helping place. athletes be ready and providing transportation. May you ever The 8th graders greatly ben- fly high, Eagles! (Isaiah 40:31) efited from the exchange with both of these soldiers. The THREE-SPORT ATHLETES students’ awareness of world Congratulations to the Middle School’s three-sport athletes. events was heightened, and they now have a richer appre- Six ECMS students have shown exceptional personal effort and Lt. Col. Larry Wilson (center), a relative of 8th grader Douglas Harrison ciation of the daily sacrifice school spirit this year by participating on teams during all three (far left). Others are Mike Silbernagel, Steven Horner, Kathleen Granholm, of our troops. sports seasons. The following students played on the soccer, and Shaneia Gray. basketball and track teams over the course of the year: 7th grade: Schuyler Sietsma, Lauren Spoelstra and Brian Sietsma. Go to http://www.easternchristian.org to read “5th Graders Motivated by Book It” 8th grade: Mike Dykhouse, Joe Everett and Joel Veenstra. and “A Visit from Dawn Treader Christian School: Developing Friendships and Artwork Together.”

The ECMS Track Team

PAGE 11 SUMMER 2004 HThe erald

CLASS OF 2004 ATHLETIC AWARDS Sports Highlights

W ENDY’ S H IGH S CHOOL H EISMAN AWARD SPRING SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS Female: Mandy Kuiken Male: Steve Link By Steve King, ECHS Athletic Director NJ NATIONAL G IRLS AND WOMEN IN S PORTS DAY: Kelly Kuiken ARMY RESERVE/NATIONAL SCHOLAR ATHLETE: Female: Mandy Kuiken Male: Steve Link PASSAIC C OUNTY C OACHES A SSN. S ENIOR S CHOLAR ATHLETE: Female: Mandy Kuiken Male: Steve Link ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT VARSITY CLUB AWARD: Female: Mandy Kuiken Male: Scott Bushoven

ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT IRON EAGLE AWARD: The Golf Team won the BPSL Carpenter Division League Title this year. The following team members received League and/or Athletes who participated in 12 seasons of eligibility County recognition: Justin Dedio, Matt Milkamp, Mike Alsum, Sam Dykstra, Art Vooys and Ben Bruins. Scott Bushoven Mandy Kuiken arsity Softball: This girls’team finished with a record of 17-7. Several of the highlights included Steve Link Vthe seventh inning four-run rally with two outs to beat Glen Rock. Other big wins came in games Dan Westra against Waldwick and Hawthorne in regular season, a County Tournament win over Lakeland, and NJSIAA SCHOLAR/ATHLETE AWARD: a State Tournament win over St. Aloysius. Steve Link JV Softball: The JV Team ended their season with a record of 7-7-1, fielding a young team of NJSIAA EDUCATIONAL T ESTING nine freshmen and three sophomores. The team tied Midland Park in their first game of the season S ERVICE S CHOLAR ATHLETE AWARD: and then won 10-5 the second game they played. This team also had a hard-fought victory over a very Female: Leigh Silbernagel good Saddle Brook team. Male: Steve Link Varsity Baseball: Scoring a 17-0 Opening Day win over Lodi, the team finished the season with 7 wins and 14 losses. A highlight was their sweep of Waldwick in both games they played. This Winners of multiple team performed well in the County Tournament, losing in extra innings 5-4 to Passaic County Tech, Senior Athletic the eventual County Champion. Awards: JV Baseball: The JV Team finished at 5-11-1.Key games included an 11-6 win over Paterson Steven Link and Catholic, a 1-0 win over Saddle Brook, and a season ending 4-1 win over Passaic County Tech. Mandy Kuiken Tennis: Facing very tough league competition this year, the team finished with a 4-13 record. Our team consisted of 11 relatively inexperienced freshmen players. The win-loss team record did not fully reflect the fact that each team member showed tremendous growth during their individual matches. High School Track: The Boys’ Team finished with a 6-7 record and placed 4th in the League meet, while the Girls’Team finished at 5-8 and also finished 4th in the League meet. There were approx- imately 50 EC athletes involved in the Track program this year.

Congratulations! Athletic Director Steve King reported that congratulations are in order for the Congratulations to Eastern Christian High School Athletic Department following awards received at the end of the 2003-2004 school year: on being chosen as the Carpenter Division Sportsmanship Winner in the Bergen Passaic Scholastic League. This is the second year in a row that Eastern Christian Congratulations to Mandy Kuiken on being chosen as one of three finalists in has won this award. Congratulations to the coaches, players, and fans on their the Passaic County Female Scholar Athlete competition sponsored by the Passaic display of sportsmanship that was so recognized by the opposing coaches in the County Coaches Association. At the County Awards’ Dinner on June 8 Mandy was league! A banner will be presented to Athletic Director Steve King at a New Jersey selected as a runner-up to this year’s winner. Interscholastic Athletic Association dinner in the Fall.

PAGE 12 SUMMER 2004 HThe erald

SPRING ATHLETIC AWARDS Recognition Chapel Surprise

B ASEBALL T ENNIS he staff and students of ECES pulled Dan Wesdyk Eric Martin First Team All League Second Team All League Toff quite an accomplishment, man- Honorable Mention All County Honorable Mention All County aging to surprise not one but two people Steve Sietsma Kenton Sybesma Second Team All League Honorable Mention All County as honored guests in the annual Dave Van Schepen Robbie Anfang Recognition Chapel. Bud and Christy Van Second Team All League Second Team All League Genderen came to chapel on May 26, Dan Westra Ken Malnati Honorable Mention All League Second Team All League expecting to join with others in recogniz- Scott Bushoven Jon Goehring ing the contributions to ECES of someone Honorable Mention All County Honorable Mention All League else. Bud had been invited to surprise his G OLF T RACK wife in honoring her faithful and diligent Acting out a scene where “Mrs. Van” tries to help a Winners of the BPSL Carpenter Mary Tolsma student at the computer Division League Title First Team All League 3200M service to our school. However, after Sam Dykstra Honorable Mention All County teacher Sandy Bottge surprised Christy Van Genderen with a slide show in her honor, she First Team All League Lauren Bruins First Team All County Second Team All League 800M called her husband out of hiding to stand with her in recognition of the many volunteer Art Vooys Megan Van Schepen hours he has contributed to maintain our technology infrastructure. Both were genuinely First Team All League Second Team All League Discus Ben Bruins Honorable Mention All County shocked to find themselves receiving the applause of the entire school. First Team All League Dan Sunden Both husband and wife sat in “chairs of honor”as each grade creatively presented their Second Team All League Pole Vault Honorable Mention All County appreciation for all the joyful service the Van Genderens have offered to our school. One Mike Alsum Honorable Mention All League Javelin Second Team All League Honorable Mention All County class dubbed Bud the “Oh No! Man” for all the troubleshooting he has done whenever Honorable Mention All County Alex Noyes called upon. Later in the day, Christy remarked about how encouraging it is to serve in such Justin Dedio Honorable Mention All County Second Team All League Mike Kraai a wonderful school. Everyone left the event with smiles that day—what fun it is to surprise Matt Milkamp Honorable Mention All League Discus someone in a good way! Honorable Mention All League Jon Cheresnick Honorable Mention All League Javelin S OFTBALL Mark Robinson Krista Burke Honorable Mention All League First Team All League High Jump The Luke Society Fundraiser Results Second Team All County Kevin Jonas Katie Donnelly Honorable Mention All League First Team All League Pole Vault s reported in the last issue of The Herald, this year the ECES students raised funds to sup- Second Team All County Kristina Barbuto Aport a meal program in the area of Cerro Bolongo, Peru, which feeds 200 children daily Melanie Susen Honorable Mention All League 800M First Team All League Jessica MacWilliam through the ministry of The Luke Society, an organization dedicated to medical missions. Honorable Mention All County Honorable Mention All League 1600M For three months our students raised funds by offering services of various kinds in Mandy Kuiken Meghan Van Hine Second Team All League Honorable Mention All League 100HH return for a contribution towards the fundraiser.At the end of three months, Rich Troast, Second Team All County Lauren De Jong a Luke Society volunteer and EC parent, was presented a check for $2,062.46! Additionally, Jamie Dykstra Honorable Mention All League Second Team All League High Jump each class identified one child Honorable Mention All County Honorable Mention All League by name to pray for and write Ashley Jaffres Long Jump Second Team All League Honorable Mention All County to during the three months. Tracey Dykstra Xiomara Robinson What a blessing it was to hear Honorable Mention All League Honorable Mention All League Pole Vault from Mr. Troast that the chil- dren of Cerro Bolongo were praying for us, as well! Helping our brother and sisters in Peru is another way we can get to know those of other cultures and demonstrate how to be “salt”and “light”in this world, ECES students raised $2,062.46 for The Luke Society as our Lord commands.

Track team member Alex Noyes (center) won PAGE 13 SUMMER 2004 Honorable Mention All County recognition. HThe erald

“HOLD ON TO THE FINGER OF GOD” Perfect Attendance Eastern Christian Elementary School Fourth Grade Promotion Chapel Talk 2003-2004 Perfect Attendance List KINDERGARTEN GRADE 3 by Principal Richard Van Yperen Trent Braen Joshua Bruins Michael Vriesema Matt D’Urso his is a special day! Throughout the year,Wednesdays have been Jonathan Hartensveld Jesse Greenfield Tmy favorite day each week because we meet together for worship GRADE 1 Elijah Jefferson at the beginning of each Wednesday. However, today is really the best Corey Abma Krystal Knyfd because it is the last day of school before 11 weeks of summer. Yes, Perry Jacob Vanessa Veenstra exactly 11 weeks from today we start a new school year. I can’t wait! Nicholas Romero GRADE 4 And when we start on September 1, the students we see sitting GRADE 2 Matthew Botbyl up front will have walked around the bend from elementary school Douglas Davis Briana Caro into middle school. Tara Kleinmanns Jenna Doller We just sang our theme verse for this year – Psalm 119:105. Salma Mbaabu Gianna Gravinese Throughout the school year we have memorized and studied God’s Sarah Mulcock Abby Hartog Word, as we have talked about following the path God has set out for Mallory Noordeloos Emily Lotz each of us. Together, we have walked the path under the light of God’s Elizabeth Mulcock Joshua Pruiksma Principal Dick Van Yperen challenges 4th Word for ten months. Today, we stand at a crossroads on the path- Heather Tanis Grade graduates to “Walk with God.” way. For our fourth graders, the path bends up ahead. Although we Heather Van Lenten cannot see around the bend,we can’t wait to see what God has in store for you just around that bend. When you leave school today, you will walk out of elementary school for the last time, but you will not walk out of our interest in you. Each of you will be individually prayed for weekly by someone in this school over the coming year when you are in fifth grade. We will not forget you! Do you know what I will never forget about your class? I will never forget that your class is the first class I have watched on the playground during recesses that did not war with other classes over the soccer field. This may not sound like much, but I think it is clear demonstration of Christ-like character. Every Grade Four class before you has had dis- putes with the Grade Three class about using the soccer field during recess. In the past, I have had to come up with an elaborate schedule to allow for equal use of the field. This year, you have welcomed Grade Grade One students led the entire ECES student body in our annual Praise Chapel on Wednesday, May 12. In 3, Grade 2, and even Grade 1 students to play with you on the field response to the school-wide emphasis on God’s Word during recess.Yes,I have had to referee at times when the play became being a “lamp for our feet” and a “light for our path,” too competitive, but you have always demonstrated unselfishness by each of the three classes focused on their own class- room’s theme verse – Psalm 27:1 (Mrs. Vander Wall’s including all who want to play. I am proud of you because you are class), Psalm 118:24 (Mrs. Ritsma’s class), and John 10:14 walking in the light by acting justly and loving mercy. (Miss Koster’s class) – in songs accompanied by instruments and movement. Each class also recited a Ron Hutchcraft, author of “A Word With You” that is broadcast Grandson Noah demonstrating how to memorized poem of praise to God. on the radio station Star 99.1, tells this story about a boy named Joey: “walk with God” by walking and hold- ing onto his grandfather Mr. Van “Joey ran in the handicapped Olympics that were held in con- Yperen’s fingers. junction with the Seoul Olympics a few years ago, and as it turned out, there were only two in Joey’s event. As their track event began, Joey took the lead, leaving his only competitor way behind him. Then Joey suddenly stopped in his tracks. What hap- pened next basically melted the event announcer’s heart. That day at the handicapped Olympics, young Joey turned around, went back to his lagging opponent, and put his arm around him. Then Joey proceeded to help the other runner to complete the race with him. And they crossed the finish line together, arm in arm, with the other arm raised with one finger saying, ‘I’m #1!’ Well, the audience rose to their feet with a standing ovation, and the announcer said, ‘It looks like Joey wanted the other guy to be winner, too.’ And then, in a surprisingly personal footnote, the announcer said, ‘I want to be more like Joey.’” continued on page 15

PAGE 14 SUMMER 2004 HThe erald ECMS GRADUATION continued from page 14 In this selfish world that has an “all about me”attitude – when Granparents/Guest Day you care enough about others to help them feel like winners includ- ing them and pushing them to the front – you will both win because you are reflecting our ultimate model of a selfless lifestyle, Jesus Himself.When it came to a choice between Him dying for our sin or us dying for our sin, He chose to Fourth Grade liturgical dancers accompanied the Grade 4 Chorus during the say,“I want you to win – even if it ECES Promotion Chapel. costs me my life.” So,I commend you fourth graders for being Christ-like by unselfishly including others! That is a clear example of your “walking in the light as He is in the light” and how it produces fellowship with one another. I believe Grades 1, 2 & 3 students will forever be influenced by your example. This year each grade invited their grandparents or spe- Now, as you look ahead up the path that leads to your future and see a bend that you can’t see cial guests to visit on a different day in May or June. The around, I have a simple message I would like you to remember. Perhaps, a visual illustration will help 2nd graders hosted their guests on May21 and enjoyed class activities and lunch together. Grandpa Jake Vander you to remember this message, so let me demonstrate for you what I want to say. [Editor’s Note: At Meulen has fun with granddaughter Anita Vander Meulen. this point Mr. Van Yperen walked out into hallway to get his grandson Noah, and then he came back in with Noah walking beside him – holding on to his finger.] My message is simply demonstrated by my walking with my grandson who is holding on to me. I challenge you to hold onto the finger of God as you walk out of ECES and into your future. Walk closely with God like a toddler holding on to his father’s finger. What a blessing it is for me to have my grandson walking beside me! I feel so much love for him. Do you know that God deeply desires to walk with you so that He can love you? As your Heavenly Father, God loves you and wants to be close to you. You honor Him as you walk humbly with Him on the pathway of your life. And when you choose to hold onto the “finger” of God, He can carry you when the road gets rough and dangerous, just like I can pick Noah up and carry him. Roman 8:39 says that nothing “will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” The Apostle Paul, a few verses earlier, assures us “that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who Valentina Orostizaga and her Dad share some special have been called according to His purpose.” moments. Don’t let go of the finger of God! As you walk onward in the journey of your life, there will be Go to http://www.easternchristian.org people and circumstances that will tell you that you don’t need to walk closely with God. Don’t for more photos listen! Hold onto the finger of God always. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, [walk by holding onto God,] and He will make your paths straight.”

The wedding of “Q” & “U” is a highlight of the Flower Girl Alissa Sytsma year for teacher Nancy Johnston’s afternoon Kindergarten class.

Go to http://www.easternchristian.org for more photos

PAGE 15 SUMMER 2004 HThe erald

2004 Preschool Graduates EC Preschool Highlights Morgan Abma Isabelle Fiore Brandon Aydin Emily Fluit By Director Kathy Faasse Devyn Bavagnoli Maggie Hagerty Benjamin Boonstra Emily Healy Jesse Boonstra Jacob Hosier Alyssa Botbyl Abigail Johnson Adrian Brown Jeremiah Kaehr Skylar Brown Nicholas Kinahan Connor Bushoven Elisabeth Kuipers Tyler Damsma Paul Labib Matthieu Davis Nicole Martin Brenna Duffy John Maura Adam Faber Madison Noordeloos Joshua Onufer Dale Schambelan Kirsten Skead Scott Steenstra Kyle Streelman Alexis Struck Preschool has had a busy spring! In May, we celebrated Preschool Sharing “The Bee Attitudes” Samuel Tuit John Turpin ECGrandparents Day, held our annual Walkathon and took a class trip. The children enjoyed Ethan Vander Molen sharing their day with grandparents or special guests, some of whom traveled from North Carolina, Erin Vander Plaat Michigan and South Dakota! Parents and grandparents came the next week to help cheer the chil- Brittany Van Harken Connor Van Hoff dren at the Walkathon. Thanks to the support of parents, Brooke Van Lenten grandparents and friends, our children raised $1,575.00. Alyssa Botbyl walking down Noelle Verhoog the aisle at graduation. Vanessa Wolosz Monies raised will be used for new computers and software. Another highlight was the four and five-year-olds’ trip to the dentist. Our classes visited Dr. Scott Martin’s office to Interesting T.R.I.P.Facts learn about good dental health. By Coordinator Faye Dyksen In June we enjoyed three memorable events: the annual Preschool picnic was held, a special visitor came to Preschool; These are among the interesting statistics from the Picnic Plantings: ECMS student Michelle Van and we held our closing program and graduation. This year’s Tuition Reduction Incentive Program (T.R.I.P.) for Lenten helps preschooler Isabelle Fiore. the six-month period from Oct. 7, 2003 - April 7, picnic was held at Faith Community CRC on a beautiful, 2004: sunny spring day. Preschool children showed everyone the power of prayer. They knew the day would FOR CURRENT FAMILIES: be bright – they had been praying diligently through a few weeks of unsettled weather! ECMS stu- Over $50,000 in TRIP credit was applied to May dents were on hand to assist the children and their parents with activities and games, and everyone tuition bills. Over the past 6 months: had a wonderful time. A few days later, Lt. Jeff Botbyl of the Passaic County Sheriff’s Department 4 families earned over $1,000 in TRIP credit. came to talk to the children about safety. He arrived on his motorcycle! This was a special treat for 13 families earned over $500 in TRIP credit girls and boys alike. 51 families earned over $250 in TRIP credit. 122 families earned over $150 in TRIP credit. Our graduation and closing program was held 152 families earned over $100 in TRIP credit. on Tuesday, June 15 at Cedar Hill CRC, the first grad- FOR FUTURE FAMILIES: uation during Eastern Christian School’s “Graduation Week.” Families were excited to see EC’s youngest (“Future families” are families that are using TRIP and accumulating their credits until they wish to graduates sing about this year’s Bible theme “The Bee begin having them applied to EC tuition.) Attitudes” and proudly watched them receive their Future families have over $58,000 of accumulated special certificates. tuition credit as of April 8, 2004: God has certainly been good to Eastern Christian 17 families have over $1,000 in TRIP credit Preschool! After a “different”school year beginning, Enjoying the Preschool Graduation are four generations of the earned for future tuition credit. we ended the year in our new home and we are very Everett Family: Great Grandmother Florence Everett, Preschool 1 family even has over $5,000 in credits! thankful.We look forward to many more years in our graduate Ethan Vander Molen, Mother Sarah (Everett) Vander For more details or registration forms, contact the Molen, and Grandmother Ruth (Meenen) Everett T.R.I.P. Office at 973-427-9294 ext. 210, or log on Orchard Street home. to the EC website (www.easternchristian.org) and download the information. PAGE 16 SUMMER 2004 HThe erald Superintendent Gil Kitchen Leaves to Pastor Local Church

n the late spring implementing new or different ways. He created a fresh new para- ISuperintendent Gil digm – he nudged us along Kitchen announced that Secondly, Gil chose to lead. A leader makes decisions. Gil tried to build he was going to take a call consensus; but even without consensus, he made the difficult decisions rather from the Sixth Reformed than let things fester and go unresolved. That costs but is what a leader does. Church in North Haledon I am thankful for the opportunities I had to serve with Gil and for to serve as an associate the blessing he has been to EC.” pastor – something he The ECSA Board members presented Gil with a framed copy of his has longed to do since favorite verse, Philippians 4:4-7, which reflects so well the positive Departing Superintendent Gilbert Kitchen pictured with completing his seminary perspective he is quick to share with all: “Rejoice in the Lord Always.” Open House host David Simcox (2003-04 Board President) studies. To offer the EC David Simcox spoke for all of us when he wrote this summary, “Gil is one and Ginny Hoogstra, ECMS staff member and close friend community an opportu- of those remarkable individuals that of the Kitchen family. nity to thank him for his instantly puts you at ease and makes nine years of service, an informal Open House was held at Faith Community you feel the love that powers his CRC’s Barn on June 10. enthusiasm for EC. He has been a A variety of EC parents, staff members, and EC supporters came tireless proponent of Christian during the two-hour time period to shake his hand and thank him for his education for all, and has been very dedication to our school and its mission. Specially decorated pages and pens effective at casting a vision for the were available for those who wanted to add their thoughts and prayers to schools that has directed us to where a scrapbook of memories being prepared by one of the event’s organizers, we are today. We thank God that we Ginny Hoogstra. were blessed with his exemplary A farewell hug for a beloved colleague from Surrounded by cases of Coke (Gil’s favorite beverage), lots of delicious leadership for these 9 years.” ECMS Principal Florence Nieuwenhuis. finger foods, many of Gil’s family members and a large group of friends, several Board and staff members shared tributes and special memories with Gil. Principal Dick Van Yperen talked about how the verses from Proverbs 2004 Service Awards 3:33-35 make him think of Gil’s godly character as a leader of Eastern Christian Schools. Quoting from those verses, he said that “God’s promises to bless the home of the righteous, to give grace to the humble and honor to the wise have been borne out in Gil’s life as he has wisely and humbly led in his role of Superintendent.” Former Board President Bill Reitsma could not be present, but e-mailed the following comments which were read by 2003-04 Board President David Simcox: “I had the privilege of being on the board when Gil joined the EC community. In my years of being involved with the community,

I recognized two special gifts that God gave us when sending us Gil. Honorees who have served EC for 20 or more years included: Steve King (30 yrs), First, C.S. Lewis wrote ‘We Ellen (Rypkema) Ritsma (30 yrs), Agnes Fisher (25 yrs), and Paul Beverly (20 yrs). would rather live in familiar cap- 5 YEARS: 10 YEARS: 20 YEARS: tivity, than in unfamiliar free- dom.’ Gil released everyone, from Sharon Augsburger Deb Andrews Paul Beverly Wilma Bogertman Marilyn Bryslawskyj the faculty and staff to the board, 25 YEARS: Bill De Graaf Ruth Henion Agnes Fisher to feel free to move out of the Joann Everett Cathy Lagerveld 30 YEARS: confines of doing things the same Everett Henderson Walter Pinto way (because we always did Beth Milkamp Marla Stout Steve King Gloria Tenewitz David Simcox presents Gil with a framed copy them that way) to exploring and Wendy Post Ellen Ritsma of his favorite Bible verse: Philippians 4:4-7. Betsy Tyvoll 15 YEARS: R ETIREMENT: Sarah Vander Wall Anne Borduin Sylvia De Vries Maribeth Vriesema Carol Byma PAGE 17 SUMMER 2004 Ruth Rudd HThe erald

Sponsors for 2004 A Fond Farewell EC Golf Outing earning Disabilities Teacher Sylvia DeVries is EC’s 2004 Golf Outing was a great success, rais- retiring after working for 42 years in the EC ing $19,000! Thanks to the following sponsors: L School system. She began to teach at EC in 1962, and Hole-In-One Sponsor Borough Chrysler Jeep, Wayne in her early years of employment she taught Grades Gold Sponsors 2 and 4 as well as 1st Grade. During that time she also Atlantic Stewardship Bank, Midland Park Sales Consultants of Northern Jersey, Inc, Oakland served for a number of years as Head Teacher at the V & S Flooring, Inc., Midland Park Midland Park campus. Silver Sponsors In the1982-83 school year she began her respon- Bushoven & Company, Midland Park Columbia Bank, Fair Lawn A special “Good-Bye” to Learning Disabilities teacher Sylvia sibilities as Learning Disabilities specialist at ECES. Reiner & Co., Inc., Fair Lawn De Vries and “Thank you” to her long-time aide Evelyn Crawford. Visbeen Construction Company, Ridgewood Sylvia also served several years as Chair of the LD Wayne Tile Co., Inc., Wayne Department. During the 1993-1994 school year she held the position of Interim Principal. Morning Coffee Sponsor The Michael Carnevale Foundation, Allendale Sylvia holds a BA in Elementary Ed from Calvin, an MA in Learning Disabilities from Montclair Valley National Bank, Wayne University and an MA in Reading from William Paterson University. At the annual Service Awards Between “9’s”Sponsor Vander Plaat-Vermeulen Memorial Home Inc., Fr. Lakes Dinner Sylvia stated that EC allowed her the freedom to teach in the creative and flexible ways that Hole Sponsors she felt her students needed. California Stucco Products Corp.,Hackensack Honored also at the ECSA Service Awards Dinner was long-time aide Evelyn Crawford who has CS Stucco & Plaster, North Haledon Hawthorne Rugs, Hawthorne served in Sylvia De Vries’ classroom as a volunteer for many years. She began volunteering when High Mountain Eyecare, North Haledon Hudson United Bank, Mahwah her daughter was a student in Sylvia’s 1st Grade class and followed her to the “Owl’s Nest,” where she John M. Last, DDS, Wayne served for 22 years. Contributing to her curriculum implementation daily, Sylvia shared that the two Kuiken Brothers, Fair Lawn North Jersey Trailer & Truck Service, North Haledon of them worked very well together. Whenever Sylvia had a new idea for teaching a skill or concept, Ruitenberg Displays, Inc.,Haledon Evelyn would use the idea to develop creative materials and helpful tools for individual students. Russell Orchards, Inc,Wyckoff Teschon, Riccobene & Siss, Midland Park Sylvia and Evelyn – May God richly bless you both in the future. We will miss you! Doorprize Sponsors B.J.F. Sanitation, Inc.,Haledon David Boogertman Construction,Hawley PA Northeast Janitorial Supply, Inc., Pompton Lakes Roofco Inc., Maplewood Community Support Makes Doorprize Donors Hawthorne Car Wash, Hawthorne Home Supply, Hawthorne Spring Fundraisers Successful Kuiken Brothers, Midland Park Valley National Bank, Wayne Waddell & Reed, Midland Park uction Elegance: A supportive group of 330 people gathered at The Tides for an exciting evening Aof fun, good food, great fellowship and successful fundraising. The Silent Auction tables over- flowed with a variety of donations including theme baskets, items for children, outdoor entertaining and more. Our auctioneer, Henry Kuperus, enter- tained guests and took bids for an array of items such as sporting event tickets and vacation get-aways and front-row seats to all of the EC graduation cere- monies. We appreciate the generosity of all our donors, enabling the Auction to provide a wonder- ful assortment of items on which to bid. Thanks to our guests who generously bid on our selections, raising a total of $36,000 in proceeds for EC. EC Golf Tournament: The day seemed uncer- Superintendent Gil Kitchen receives a check for $19,000 from tain when riding through a thunderstorm to get to Setting up the “Silent Auction” items are: Sandy De Marco Golf Outing Coordinator Roy Bushoven and EC Events Great Gorge Country Club in the morning hours. (committee member), Janice Englishman (Board and Coordinator Beth Milkamp. committee member), and Kathy Kranz (volunteer) However, the clouds parted by starting time, the sun continued on page 19

PAGE 18 SUMMER 2004 HThe erald

COMMUNITY SUPPORT continued from page 18 came out; and it was a beautiful day for our 153 golfers to enjoy. Awards and prizes were awarded at the mid-afternoon luncheon at the Portabello Restaurant.A total of $19,250 was raised for EC. Mark your calendar for next year’s event – May 23, 2005. Chrysler’s “Drive for the Kids”: It was an exciting morning on Saturday, June 5, 2004. A new local Christian Radio Station, Star 99.1 FM, was doing a live broadcast from EC’s Middle School. Radio celebrity Beth McCall asked the listeners to stop by to check out the school, see all the items for sale and take a free test-drive in a brand new Chrysler STAR 99.1 Celebrity Beth McCall did a live remote broadcast from the provided by Borough Chrysler Jeep of Wayne, NJ. ECMS entranceway and shared games and giveaways with students who For each drive taken, EC would receive a donation gathered to talk to her at our June 5 “Drive for the Kids” fundraiser. ECMS teacher Naomi Braunius was one of teach- from both Chrysler and Borough Chrysler Jeep. ers who were willing targets in the “pie-throw- While parents took a quick test-drive, children ing” contest. The Middle School raised approx- enjoyed a variety of games in the gym. Also avail- imately $500 for EC that day. able were hot dogs, snacks and a variety of crafters’ items to purchase. We offer a special “Thank You”to Borough Chrysler Jeep for providing the vehicles and the staffing necessary to run this event. It was definitely a community- building and fun-filled day that provided great publicity for our school!

Borough Chrysler Jeep representative Glenn Boonstra gets ready to ride with incoming Board member Doug Bushoven. A record number of EC supporters (210) came to Drive for the Kids and help EC.

Business Sponsors for Auction Elegance Patrons: Atlantic Stewardship Bank, Midland Park Glen Rock Stair Corp., Franklin Lakes Redi-Rental Companies, Sparta Sales Consultants of Northern Jersey, Inc., Oakland Visbeen Construction Company, Ridgewood Supporters: Bushoven & Company, Midland Park Cedar Hill Nursery, Mahwah Heerema Company, Hawthorne Post & Kelly Electric, Inc., Hawthorne Sietsma Landscape Contractors / Green-Way Irrigation, Midland Park V & S Floor Covering, Midland Park Vander Plaat-Vermeulen Memorial Home, Fr. Lakes Vincek & Petrocci, Ramsey

PAGE 19 SUMMER 2004 HThe erald Alumni News

F ORMER S TAFF C LASS OF 1947 the sites; yearbooks; and the like. If such things are avail- able through your association to alumni of those schools, Mary Chilton, former ECHS Foreign Language Class Rep: Corene (Riemersma) De Graaf I would appreciate hearing how to avail myself of them.” teacher, returned to visit Eastern Christian High 7 Faner Rd, Midland Park, NJ 07432-1715 School in April of this year. Having moved back Rev. Floyd De Boer returned his survey with an C LASS OF 1953 to NJ from Florida, this was her first visit since updated email address. He wrote, “I am always Class Rep: Phyllis (De Ruiter) Schuurman 1977. Mary was impressed with the changes in thankful for the excellent preparation for Calvin 54 Park Ave, Garfield, NJ 07026-1431 the High School building, especially the changes College and Seminary that I received at Eastern E-Mail: [email protected] to the Auditorium. Academy. What a blessing Christian education is.” We received a “tidbit”of news from Clix Van Der Wiele to say that Dr.William La Fleur at the C LASS OF 1934 C LASS OF 1948 University of Pennsylvania recently presented a lecture entitled Japan and America: Differing Class Rep: Anna (Bos) Placek Class Rep Needed Approaches to Problems of Abortion and Medicine. 12316 Beaver Trail SE,Albuquerque, NM Alumnus Matthew DuPree added to our infor- Henry and Judy (Dyer) Van Heemst (’56) 87123-3521 mation about former teachers. He stated, sent in a note that they are both retired and are See article in this issue about a mini-reunion “Several issues ago there was an article stating that enjoying their six grandchildren. to be held on Saturday, September 25, 2004 as you were trying to locate former faculty members. part of EC’s Dining with Friends event! I’m one! I taught at ECSA for five years from 1957 C LASS OF 1954 till 1962. I taught one year at the junior high that Class Rep: Larry Hoogerhyde C LASS OF 1937 5845 Leisure South Dr SE, Kentwood, MI 49548 was in the old EA building on North 8th St. I then E-Mail: [email protected] Class Rep Needed taught four years at the high school in North “We have finally arrived back in MI after spending In response to our Christian Education survey in Haledon. I taught Latin and English.” the winter in FL with Linda’s mom and brothers as February, Donald van Reken shared, “I have been well as other friends,” writes Larry Hoogerhyde. in Christian Education all my life except for C LASS OF 1950 “We are settling into a new home in Kentwood and WWII. I taught in Nigeria. Later in Cicero, IL and Reunion Contact: Doris (Hall) Kuiken going through the process of sorting, throwing, lastly at Holland Christian High School here in E-mail: [email protected] selling, giving away, etc. We did get the last Herald, Holland, MI. Retired there in 1985.” A 55-yr reunion is in the planning stage. Contact thanks to the PO still forwarding our mail from Doris Kuiken or Betty (Malefyt) Almroth with our daughter Judi’s address so we enjoyed catching C LASS OF 1938 your input. up on some of the news at EC.” Reminder: The Class of 1954 will have a Clarence Meines of Littleton, CO has been Class Rep: Barney Steen reunion on Thursday, Oct. 21, 2004 at Marks 3533 Golf View Drive, #4, Shelby, MI 49455-9599 named The Volunteer of The Year for North Village Inn, Wayne, NJ 07470 Susan (De Vries) Barwis notified our office that America by the Ambassadors Club of the her mother, Muriel Helen (Ash) De Vries,went company Unilever and Best Foods.“Clix”has C LASS OF 1956 been retired for six years after working forty years home to be with her Lord on December 27, 2003. Class Rep: Shirley (Van Til) Faber Our sympathy to the family. for Best Foods. He is married to classmate Alyce 155 Moramarco Ct, Mahwah, NJ 07430-2965 (Pruiksma) Meines. A survey response from Nancy (De Vries) Jessen of LASS OF C 1944 Pineville, NC included these comments: “I am C LASS OF 1951 Class Rep & Mini-Reunion Contact Needed very thankful for the Christian education I received at See article in this issue about a mini-reunion Class Rep Needed EC which prepared me for life. My mother (Jeanette to be held on Saturday, September 25, 2004 as We received an email in the spring from Marius Greydanus De Vries ’35) and grandfather were part of EC’s Dining with Friends event! Broekhuizen asking for some archive information also the recipients of this solid foundation.” on EA and Midland Park Christian Elementary C LASS OF 1946 School. He writes, “I attended the Christian grade C LASS OF 1959 school back in the 40’s. Since then, it has been razed. Class Rep Needed Also, I graduated in 1951 from Eastern Academy on Class Rep: Maria (Hartog) Coffin Grace (Rozendal) Shuart enjoys getting The Eighth Street in Prospect Park, which I understand is no PO Box 847, Middlebury, CT 06762-0847 Herald. She also told us that her husband Rev. longer functioning as such. I’m writing to inquire E-Mail: [email protected] Esler Shuart passed away recently. He had taught whether your association has available anything dealing Raymond Vanderwall e-mailed to say that he is some Bible classes at EC in 1968 while serving with those buildings or their classes: photos of the build- now living in Yakima,WA. As of Jan.1, he became Prospect Park CRC. ings, either interior or exterior, pictures of graduating the pastor of Grace Bible Church. classes; write-ups or articles depicting the demolition of

continued on page 21 PAGE 20 SUMMER 2004 HThe erald ALUMNI NEWS continued from page 20 C LASS OF 1964 put a price on the value of a Christian education. It Alumni Birth Announcements: provided me the foundation for all aspects of both Congratulations to these EC alumni who have Mini-Reunion Contact: Ruth Choka my personal and business relationships and ethics. recently welcomed a new member to their family! 4804 Tudor Dr, Pompton Plains, NJ 07444-1126 My new position is the property manager of Regatta Class of 1974 – Mary Jane and Robert Baker, a E-mail: [email protected] Beach Club. It’s a beautiful condominium on daughter, Katherine Doris on 4/17/03. See article in this issue about a mini-reunion Clearwater Beach. Currently we are under the Class of 1987 – Margaret and Russell Huizing, to be held on Saturday, September 25, 2004 as control of the developer as numerous improvements twin boys, Nathan Elmer and Andrew Samuel on 4/6/04. part of EC’s Dining with Friends event! are being accomplished. If any of my classmates are Class of 1988 – Dan and Trish (Faase) DeVries, LASS OF ever in the area, please stop by for a personal tour!” a son, Zachary Ryan on 4/5/04. Zachary joins brothers C 1965 Jason (age 4) and David (age 2). Class Rep: Needed C LASS OF 1972 Class of 1990 – Darren and Abigail (Calvin) Via e-mail, Ron Steiginga shared the following Class Rep Needed Kaufman, a daughter, Emma Leigh on 4/21/03. Emma memory of Bert Van Wyk. Thank you for the last joins sisters Megan (age 13), Susannah (age 6) and issue of The Herald. I especially appreciated the Nancy (Veenstra) McDonald has moved around Heather (age 3). the country with her pastor husband, Mike. letter from Marian Van Wyk, who wrote about Class of 1991 – Albert and Sharon (Schipper) her husband, Bert. I had read his obituary in The However, she expects to return to NJ with him in Berry, a son, Cole Tyler on 12/15/03. Cole joins a sister, Banner last fall, and was saddened to see that he had 2004 after her two children finish at Kelloggsville Taylor Paige (age 2). passed away. Bert was my, as well as Karen’s [Karen Christian School, to move into a home in Sussex. Class of 1992 – Joseph and Tracey (Ver Hage) De Graaf] sixth grade teacher. If he wasn’t a rookie Zbierski, a daughter, Holly Denise on 4/18/04. teacher when he had us, he was close to it. There were C LASS OF 1973 Class of 1996 – Wendy and Mark Dyer - a son Tyler too many sixth graders that year, and most of them Class Rep Needed Jay on 8/30/03. Tyler joins brother Jacob Ellis (age 2). were sent up the hill to the Junior High. Our class was A quick comment from Gertrude (Van De Weert) the only one to remain at North 4th St. We may have Class of 1999 – Ben and Stacie (Tanis) Veenema, a son, Jack Benjamin on 12/10/03. been left behind, but we had no competition with Hovinga: “Alive and well in Marne Michigan, other sixth graders. We ruled the roost! Bert was the homeschooling to high schoolers and loving it!” Alumni are encouraged to submit birth announce- ments by e-mail or letter to Editor, The Herald. first male teacher I had ever had. I remember his soft voice, warm smile and his insistence that I improve C LASS OF 1974 my penmanship, which I did while he constantly Class Rep: Betsy (Leesman) Ertmann Home Groups, Seniors and Singles Ministries. He looked over my shoulder. (Too bad taking college 2 Erold Ct, Allendale, NJ 07401 can be reached at [email protected]. notes ruined it again.). During the summer after E-Mail: [email protected] sixth grade was over, Bert and Marian took our class See article in this issue about a mini-reunion C LASS OF 1988 on an all day cruise up the Hudson River. We went all to be held on Saturday, September 25, 2004 as Class Rep Needed the way up to West Point and then turned around part of EC’s Dining with Friends event! Patricia K. and went back to Manhattan. I think that was typi- MacLeod writes, cal of Bert. He was a true teacher and faithful to his C LASS OF 1984 students even when they were no longer his responsi- “I would like to bility. Eastern Christian became a better place with Reunion Contact: Cheryl (Mabie) Bereksazi announce my Bert Van Wyk around.” Phone: 973-427-5767 engagement ...to a A committee is working to plan a reunion at The wonderful man C LASS OF 1966 Brownstone, but the date may be early in 2005. named Robert Class Rep: Case De Haan Classmates will receive information by mail, or Patricia MacLeod (Cl. of ‘88) Balzarek and will 243 Browning Ave, Elizabeth, NJ 07208-1022 contact Cheryl for more information. with fiancé Bob be married on July E-Mail: [email protected] 24, 2004. We will be living in Bloomfield, NJ.” John Fridsma returned a survey response with an C LASS OF 1986 update that he retired in 2002 from the Kent Class Rep: Karen (Junta) Van Grouw C LASS OF 1989 County Sheriff’s Department after 30 years as a 4 Anna Rosa Ct, Bloomingdale, NJ 07403-1409 Class Rep: Laura (Braunius) Stokes Medical Social Worker. He currently works part- Pamela Vermaas sent this update: “I am finishing 506 Hollywood Ave, Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ 07423-1129 time for the Grand Rapids Public Schools as the my second masters in Educational Leadership in Classmates: Reserve Saturday,August 28, 2004 for a Chief G.E.D. Examiner and adds, “recently moved May. I just took a new position as a learning disabil- reunion picnic to be held at Eastern Christian from Caledonia, MI farm to new home along the ities teacher consultant for the Paterson School Middle School. The committee says: “It will be a banks of the Grand River.” District.” casual afternoon gathering for class members and their families. Letters including additional details LASS OF C 1971 C LASS OF 1987 were mailed out in June. If you have not received a Class Rep: Gail (Bakker) Beverly Class Rep: Laura (Faber-Struyk) Terrizzi letter, please contact one of the following committee 20 Wendt Lane, Wayne, NJ 07470-6440 40 Sicomac Rd, Hawthorne, NJ 07506-3032 E-Mail: [email protected] members: Trish (Steigina) Hoffman Russell Huizing has accepted the position of Adult Commenting on the value of Christian education, (973-427-7922), Luann (VanDer Plaats) Abma Ministries at Hawthorne Gospel Church. His new Marilyn (Fieldhouse) Kuipers wrote, “You cannot (201-447-1632) or Laura (Veenstra) Steenstra role there will include oversight of the Family, (973-427-4617). Hope to see you there!” continued on page 22 PAGE 21 SUMMER 2004 HThe erald ALUMNI NEWS continued from page 21 C LASS OF 1990 Matthew Daniel Struyk, residing in Guard. I’m now the Third Mate of the Drillship Taylorsville, Utah (south of Salt Lake City) since GLOMAR EXPLORER. I recently married Melissa Class Rep: Julie (Frens) Stinton Feb. 2004, announces his engagement to Sarah Joy Kitko on May 2, 2004.” 2634 Almont Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507- 3908 Robertson. They have plans to return to NJ for a Kimberly (Breure) Noel and Matthew Noel E-Mail: [email protected] June 11 wedding to be held at Pompton Plains were married on May 15, 2004. They are residing News from two classmates: Reformed Bible Church. Matthew is a Lawn in Lansdowne, PA where Kim is working as a Christina E.Arnoldi, “I live in Charleston, SC after Maintenance Supervisor for TruGreen Landcare Social Worker for Delaware County Children and attending Calvin College, Fuller Seminary, Penn State in West Jordan, UT. (See photo in this issue) Youth Services. and spending some time in Atlanta. I received by MA in psychology at Fuller and had 2 additional years of grad- C LASS OF 1996 C LASS OF 2000 uate studies in criminal justice at Penn State. This past Class Rep: Rebecca (Aupperlee) Lapinsky Class Rep Needed summer I received by LPC (licensed professional coun- 89 Struyk Ave, Prospect Park, NJ 07508-2252 Kerisha Harris was browsing our website and selor). For the past 2+ years I have been employed with E-Mail: [email protected] wrote, “Just browsing to see how EC is doing. I’m in my the Department of Mental Health. Currently I am in Amy (Dill) Bowers shared that she was married in last year at The University of Florida, and am planning school again for Computer Technology, hoping to switch Tampa, FL on April 2, 2004 to William Dill. She to return to the NY/NJ area in January.” careers in the near future. I remain happily single.” just finished Medical Assisting School and will do As reported in his church’s bulletin, Stephen Abigail (Calvin) Kaufman, “We recently her externship in Ob-Gyn. The couple lives in McHugh graduated summa cum laude from moved to Olathe, Kansas. Olathe is about 15 miles Wesley Chapel, FL. Northeastern University in Boston on May 1. Steve majored in Business Administration and was ranked SW of Kansas City. We also welcomed our fourth Chris Dykhouse wrote, “I am graduating first in the College of Business Administration at daughter.” (See Alumni Births) from Veterinary School of the University of PA this May and starting a job as a small animal veterinar- Northeastern. He has accepted a full time position with Microsoft in Redmond, WA. Steve and his wife C LASS OF 1994 ian in Hamilton, MI.” Rebekah are moving to Washington in July, follow- Class Rep: Julie ing their June 12 wedding. (Bowers) Tilson C LASS OF 1999 403 West Richwoods Class Rep: Jennifer Van Der Heide C LASS OF 2001 Blvd, Peoria, IL 61604- 1857 Kalamazoo Ave, Grand Rapids, MI 49507 1550 E-Mail: [email protected] Class Reps: Gina Marocco 25 Weldon Ct., Totowa, NJ 07512 E-Mail: Jill (Heerema) Darminio married Paul Darminio [email protected] Yvonne Wisse on June 27, 2003. They are currently living in “The Class of 1994 met E-Mail: [email protected] Mechanicsburg, PA. Jill is a nutritionist in York, PA. on May 29th for our Peter Sunden writes, “I attended Urbana 03 this past Douglas Jaarsma sent this update: “In May 10-year reunion. We December which dramatically changed my concept of 2003 I graduated from SUNY Maritime College had a small gathering cross-cultural missions. After contacting Susan – our with a BS in Marine Environment Science [with a ] Matthew Struyk (Cl. of ’94) & at Aldo’s Italian church-supported missionary nurse Susan Grosser in fiancé Sarah concentration in Meteorology. I also received my Restaurant in Wyckoff. La Carpio, Costa Rice – and asking if she could use my USCG Third Mate Unlimited License. And I got a It was great to see everyone and catch up,” reported help (she responded yes), she recommended that I apply commission as Ensign in the United States Coast Julie (Bowers) Tilson. (See photo) to Christ for the City International as an Individual Short Term Missionary. I received my acceptance in mid-April. I am currently a 3rd year nursing student at Messiah College and I’ve done my best to be as proactive in the medical field as possible. I have EMT and trauma life support certifications which I know will be assets during my time in Costa Rica….I have chosen to be in Ricxon Grande de Pavas. This barrio is a poor community located across the ravine from La Carpio, Susan and her comrades work in this community with remedial classes, sewing classes, dental clinic, library, English classes, all of which seek to reach the people for Christ. According to Susan, living there I would really get immersed in the culture and my hosts would definitely take me in as part of the family. Please pray for me, the people I will be ministering to, and the missionaries I am working with. I am so excited about this privilege and I know Members of the Class of ’94 held a 10-yr. reunion at Aldo’s Restaurant in Wyckoff. Pictured are Front Row (L to R): Emily (Keeley my imaginations will be far surpassed by the reality. Krueger, Julie (Bowers) Tilson, Sara (Sonderfan) Heerema, Vanessa (Vanden Berg) McKinnis; Back Row: Bill Cook, Matt Struyk, Contact Peter about the results of his trip @ Chris Conlon, Mike Heerema, Dave Clausen, Kevin Van Ek [email protected].”

PAGE 22 SUMMER 2004 HThe erald Designated Gifts

F EBRUARY 21, 2004 – JUNE 29, 2004 Gifts received after June 29, 2004 will be acknowledged in the next issue of The Herald. During this time period, 207 gifts were received or pledged in honor/memory of a loved one or friend. The total amount of these gifts in honor /memory of a loved one or friend was $88,854.03. Thank you to all who made these donations to support Christian Education at EC!

ENDOWMENT FUND John & Faye Dyksen Bertha Steen Rienstra ~In Honor Of~ Margretta & John Van Dyk Pam & Bob Kessler Fogeline Maas Alice Jellema Robert & Mary Ann Bakker ~In Memory Of~ Margaret & Jim Necita Mark & Linda Everett Peter Roukema (50th Wedding Anniversary) Florence Everett Albert Anema Larry, Ben & Matt Hoekstra The Roukema Family & Ruth & John De Vries Midland Park CRC Peter & Lois Aupperlee Christian Burial Fund of Paul & Alberta De Blaey Wilma Oliphant Roy & Jeanne Bushoven (70th Birthday) Anna Baker Paterson, Inc. Bernie & Helen Joustra Margaret Vanderkooi Robert & Anita Hoogstra Edward Sr. & Doris Nyland Carrie Schaaf Yolanda Russo David & Beverly Vandergoot Mr. & Mrs. Jacob Tolsma Kenneth J. Bogertman John Belanus Sam & Judy Elzinga Angela & Frank Bellizzi Edward Jr. & Jill Nyland Alice Jellema Mr. & Mrs. W. H. Vander Plaat (50th Birthday) Donald & Francoise Nyland Katherine Veenstra Harold & Barbara Kuipers Bobbie Bonnema Corner Closet Volunteers Esler L. Shuart Ada Marie Pontier Muriel & Reynold Amels Midland Park CRC Senior Grace A. Shuart Jeanette De Jong (80th Birthday) Crusaders (80th Birthday) Agnes Heerema John Borduin Lucille E. Sporn Marinus & Dorothy Estelle Clemens Robert & Joyce Breur Marilyn & Donald Sporn Woudenberg Donald G. Sporn Care-A-Lot Christian Nursery Dot & Neil Breur Manuel & Harriet Lee Sporn (Retirement) School Bernie & Helen Joustra Edna Mae Sporn Charles E. Fisher Art & Shirley Stokes Gary & Barbara Link Donna, Steve & Carson Brown (80th Birthday) Elsie & John Golden Henrietta Brandes Jacob & Betty Tolsma Jennie Kuiken Herman de Waal Malefyt Howard Steenstra Edna Smith Kenneth J. Tanis Rev. & Mrs. Harry Arnold Jane F. De Waal Malefyt Doug & Marianne Bushoven Frieda & Gordon Bartlam (80th Birthday) Carrie Schaaf Patricia Howe Marie Meenen Mr. and Mrs. C. Tanis,Jr. Marge De Nooy Peter C. Hartog Rin & Dot Woudenberg Mr. & Mrs. J. Arthur Larson Rev.Walter Tolsma Herbert Prins Sarene Osenga Barbara A. Davis Gerald & Trina Veenstra Marjorie De Jong Edward & Edith Fylstra Elmer Heerema Alida Klein (Marriage) John & Anita De Korte (60th Wedding Anniversary) Nicholas M. Bruining Minnie Vanden Berg Marvin & Harriet Abma Milo & Ruth Veenstra Doug & Peg Bush Katherine B. Heerema Clarence & Henrietta Belanus Grace Roukema De Boer Lois Veenstra Margretta & John Van Dyk William J. Bush John & Anita De Korte Joanne Lagestee Helen Halma Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Bush, Sr. Kate Hommes John Van Dyk (80th Birthday) John & Doris Walkotten Douglas Bush, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Ken Pratt Martha Witte Cora Santhouse (60th Wedding Anniversary) Wayne Bush Helen & Abram Van Dyke Randy & Ruth Zoodsma Ann & Maurice Ricco Mrs. Holly’s All Day Warren Bush Lois Veenstra George & Anne Aupperlee Marjorie Bush Jessie Eichhorn Kindergarten Students Steven & Anna Eichhorn Robert & Charlene Westra Brenda Meyers Ted & Greta Ruby Parents of All Day Kindergarten ~Direct Gifts~ Joanne Koopmans Roger & Linda Vogel students Nick & Lynn Veenstra Cedar Hill CRC K. Julia Cutler Peter & Helen Rose Vandenberg Margaret Heerschap Linda & Eric Carey Phyllis Sweetman Nick & Lynn Veenstra Miles & Lisa Kuperus Elsie & Marie Wispelwey Randy & Deb Veenstra Estate of Julia R. Pontier Jack & Shirley Faber Merle & Tilly Tackema Adrianna Hoogerhyde Dr. John Danz The Bank of New York Estate of Marinus Ten Hoeve Margaret Vanderkooi & Family Kathy & Allan Jeltema (103rd Birthday) Carolyn Vander Stouw Arlene H. Kerwick Ken & Laura Steenstra & Family Carl & Edna Hoogerhyde Bernard J. De Block Alida Klein Marie E. Meenen Ralph & Eleanor Jeltes John & Kay Drukker John & Anita De Korte ELISE KATHLEEN (50th Wedding Anniversary) Geraldine De Boer Robert J. Klein Daniel & Peggy Berry GORTER SCHOLAR- Alida Klein Katherine Veenstra Wilma M. Dykhouse Michael & Joyce Bombay William Fischer SHIP FUND Computer Associates Intl., Inc. Henry J. Kort Mike & Ruth Veenstra Matilda Falkena Mr. & Mrs. Bert G. Boer Clara Veenstra Wilma Kohere ~In Memory Of~ Martha Witte Bill & Janice Englishmen (Birthday) Elise Kathleen Gorter Frieda & Gordon Bartlam Walter Kulak Sarah, Jeff & Ethan Vander Herbert & Jean Soodsma Anna Kulak Molen Pammy & Rocco Feldhann Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Knyfd Barbara Kuipers & Neighborhood Friends Ernie & Griselda Nienhouse Roger Lichtenberger Jean (Bush) Van Wyck (Birthday) Linda Mabie Bob & Charlene Westra Midland Park CRC Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Bush, Sr. Ruth & John Husselman James & Leona Littel Mary Culleton-Burchers Albert Maas, Sr. Douglas Bush, Jr. Wayne Bush Marie Meenen BD Matching Gift Program Jeanette De Boer Fogeline Maas (80th Birthday) Steven & Laura Gorter Mary McCann Warren Bush Jeanette J. Pontier Marjorie Bush Robert & Gertrude Troast L.H. & Helen Gorter Jim & Kathy Wereb & Bob Hilda De Roo McKim & Creed Harold & Barbara Kuipers Brenda Meyers Gorter Golf Outing Participants Joanne Koopmans John & Doris Dyk James & Leslie Visser Susan, Ben & Matt Hoekstra Irene Post Ed & Wilma Kohere Kenneth & Laura Steenstra The Rork Agency Employees Brian & Jeffrey Roper Lambert Van Wyk Don & Alida Van Valkenburgh Gladys Fieldhouse Kenneth, Kevin & Keith Post Mary Chilton Paul & Alberta De Blaey Miles & Lisa Kuperus Edith Van Der Sluys Peter & Marion Borduin Duane & Sherri Faber PAGE 23 SUMMER 2004 continued on page 24 HThe erald DESIGNATED GIFTS continued from page 23

ANNUAL FUND Nick & Lynn Veenstra James Veenstra RESTRICTED FUND Corene De Graaf Henry & Lori Groenewal ~In Memory Of~ ~In Memory Of~ Bernie & Helen Joustra ~In Honor Of~ Elise Kathleen Gorter Jacob & Betty Tolsma Bethany Broersma Dirk & Liesl Pruis John & Doris Dyk Raeanna & Garret Dykhouse Eunice & Chet Broersma Marsh & McLennen Co., Inc. Herman Steenstra ~Direct Gifts~ Lawrence & Lisa Tannenbaum Toni Steenstra John & Annamae Hulsebos Frances Greydanus Estate of Anna J. Reynierse Marsh & McLennen Co., Inc. Katherine Touw Ted & Carol Peters Jacqueline & Irwin Lunianski THE CAMPAIGN FOR EC: Janet & Al Visbeen Arthur Steensma Kira, Mathew & Katie Martin (Dedication to EC) Lorraine W. Schlossman Jon, Rachel & Quin Kauffman Phase II: Gym Construction Ruth & John De Vries Florence & Andrew Kooistra David Lunianski & Beyond Joan & Donald De Bruin Mary Chilton Ed & Wilma Kohere Edith Conklin Minnie Vanden Berg ~In Memory Of~ Toni Steenstra Fred & Ann Leentjes Peter & Elizabeth Botbyl Bernie & Helen Joustra Lambert Van Wyk Peter & Tannette Botbyl Harriet & Marvin Abma Toni Steenstra Paul & Alberta De Blaey Martin & Trina Joustra ~In Honor Of~ Peter & Tannette Botbyl Gilbert P.Kitchen NOTE: Please mail all endowment, memorial and honor gifts to the attention of the Development Office. Each gift Richard & Lena Sylstra (Leadership of EC) (not the amount) is acknowledged to the appropriate family or individual. The donor also receives an acknowledgment Edith Conklin Sandra & Robert Bottge letter. Gifts to the Fund are eligible for matching gifts from companies with a matching gift program. Dining with Classmates Calling All Members of the Classes of: 1934, 1944, 1964 & 1974 You are invited to “Mini” Class Reunions at ECHS as part our annual “Dining with Friends” event on Saturday, September 25, 2004

ome individuals from the Classes of 1964 and 1974 have recently called to ask, “When is a reunion planned for my class?” with the assump- S tion that EC does the planning. Of course, they are disappointed if we tell them that we don’t know of any plans at the moment, and that members of the class are the ones who organize and plan all of their own reunions. That has been the tradition – up until now.In thinking about this problem, the Development Office staff came up with an alternative idea for classes who don’t have the time or the ability to organ- ize a reunion on their own. It involves becoming a part of the “Dining with Friends”fundraiser on Sept 25, 2004 in a little different way. Instead of dining in a home with your current group of friends, we are inviting members of the classes ending in “4”that don’t have their own reunion sched- uled to come for dinner at EC on September 25. In this way, there is a minimum of work for those who want a reunion and a way to dine with your own classmates by table without a big expense. After a relaxing social evening of good food and good company, all dinner parties’ guests will be invited to gather together “under the stars” for a sweet finale of desserts, music, and fellowship.

The cost involved would be $15 per person, and an additional “hostess”gift in any amount to support EC would be up to the individual. (The Dining with Friends guests are also being asked to respond to their host’s hospitality by bringing a contribution for EC, comparable to a “night out.”)To get more information or to register to become a guest at your class’DINING WITH CLASSMATES, you can simply contact the EC Development Office by: Phone: 973-427-9294 E-mail: [email protected] Letter: EC Development Office, 50 Oakwood Ave, North Haledon, NJ 07508 Be sure to include the Number of Guests coming and the Name (s) to use on the nametags as well as your current Address and Phone number.

P.S.We’d love to encourage out-of-state alumni who can’t come to NJ to participate by hosting your own satellite DINING WITH CLASSMATES parties so we can join hands across the miles in friendship and support E.C. You are invited to attend the best Reunion Dinner Party of the season! Don’t delay in becoming part of this festive evening. HThe erald PRESS ON (HS COMMENCEMENT) continued from page 3 especially touched to learn how many of these teachers “were continually Mr. Kitchen enthusiastically shared his vision for both the future of the praying for [his] growth academically, athletically and spiritually.” Laura seniors and his own future in a new role as pastor of a local church by encour- came to EC during her high school years and found that “the school is tight- aging them and all in the audience to “Enjoy God as Never Before!” and knit not only because of the generations of families attending and support- to remember that He is Ever-Present, guiding and directing us. To be able ing this school, but also because of the Christian bond that the people here to “press on”as the Bible verse instructs, he said, requires us to do two share.” Both graduates were encouraged by this traditional support, but they things: first – Forget the Past,and secondly – Reach Forward.“Forgetting also shared examples of the increasing diversity among the student body, the past” doesn’t mean forgetting all God has done or forgetting the doc- especially evident in their own class. Laura commented that EC “is a place trines in God’s Word, or even forgetting your community of friends. Instead, that embraced newcomers and diversity while still holding on to its roots.” it does mean – Don’t continue to live in the past, but press on to what God Steve and Laura expressed their gratitude for the Christian education has called you to do in His world. In addition,“straining” to what’s ahead they received. “It was beneficial to be presented everyday with the truth involves continuously focusing on the goal of serving Christ Jesus. Challenging about the world and God’s role and influence in it through Christian- each of his listeners, Gil Kitchen concluded: “Don’t get distracted by the inspired lesson plans in each and every class,” Steve stated. Laura added, things of this world. Don’t lose contact with God. Go to church – Meet with “Opening every school day with prayer and devotions has been an awe- God. And, finally, don’t stand still in your walk with the Lord. The consequences of these decisions and actions are eternal and to be seriously some experience that I have loved while being at EC.” She concluded by considered. Therefore, press on in Christ Jesus as you leave EC.” thanking Eastern Christian School “for its support through its strong Introducing the presentation of the graduates, Principal Jan Lucas Christian foundation and its willingness to embrace everyone….” related that the “blessing of these students fill my day.” A group of ECHS Continuing in expressions of their thanks, Kelly Braunius conveyed to teachers spoke of the evidence of spiritual growth in each senior’s life as their Principal Jan Lucas a monetary gift on behalf of the Senior Class as a con- names was read and each student was greeted by Board President David tribution toward the project to refurbish the high school gym and locker Simcox, who presented each diploma. A thunder of applause filled the air rooms. Next Tom Henion, Jr. introduced the speaker chosen by the class as the last of the seniors become a graduate of ECHS, and some tears of with these words: joy were sprinkled throughout the crowd. Then teacher Jena Cooksey closed “Webster’s Dictionary defines ‘superintendent’ as ‘one who the ceremony in prayer of praise and thanksgiving, and the faculty sang the has executive oversight and charge.’ Well, I don’t think that appropriate Benediction, “Here I Am, Lord.” As the graduates recessed, the this definition describes our speaker in the manner he melody of “Trumpet Voluntaire”floated upward, and the sun’s rays faded deserves. For 9 years, Mr. Kitchen has been helping lead EC to into evening’s light as celebrations with family and friends began. new heights. He does not merely oversee what is going on, but rather, ‘fights on the frontline.’ His selfless attitude is evident in his work, as he often helps do things that aren’t necessary Local Newspaper Highlights for him to do. If you ever need a laugh or a smile, Mr. Kitchen EC Graduation usually provides it. His sense of humor often helps cool down tough situations, and also spices up his messages. He helps in The following is an excerpt from The Record news- any way he can and is a true example as a servant of the Lord. paper’s short series on Senior Class highlights for high schools in Passaic and eastern Morris County:

All these things and more make Mr. Kitchen an amazing “Eastern Christian High School, North Haledon leader that will surely be missed. In many ways, he is like a Commencement: Wednesday, June 16, 7pm 2004 senior himself. Like our senior class, he has finished one leg of Graduates: 98 Co-valedictorians: Steven Link and life’s race and prepares to move on to something new and to Laura Vander Neut Graduates going on to college: become a vessel for the Lord in a different field. It is fitting 88% Class of ’04 Facts: Seventy-five percent of then, that he present our commencement address. Please the class participated in athletics. Two varsity girls’ basketball players were 1,000 point scorers – welcome our commencement speaker, Mr. Gilbert Kitchen.” Senior Thomas Henion Amanda Kuiken and Lindsay Litland. The Class of A traditional part of any commencement ceremony is a time to encour- 2004 verse is Philippians 3:14: “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for age the graduates to hold on to what they have been taught,but also to joyfully which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” step out in faith into the new communities of which they will be a part – whether School of Thought: Tom Henion of Paterson, who will be going to Messiah in pursuing a career,attending college,or among friends and within their church. College in PA, said his career at EC has been a remarkable experience. What Graduation speaker Superintendent Gil Kitchen did just that when he addressed he’ll remember most is the sense of community. ‘Since it is a Christ-cen- the seniors with the challenge to follow Philippians 3:12-14: tered community, we have a special bond to begin with. This, along with the “…but one thing I do, forgetting what lies behind and small size of the school, makes it a tight-knit community that is hard to find straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the at most high schools. Here, the students and teachers reflect more of a fam- goal for the praise of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” ily than of an educational hierarchy. The care and compassion that is seen here is unlike anything I have seen before.’”

PAGE 25 SUMMER 2004