May 2005     Have you ever wondered what your teen REALLY thinks about you? It seems that too often teens can draw conclusions that may or may not be true when it comes to their parents. With this in mind, some extensive research has been done about teen's perceptions of their parents. This month we get to honor mothers, so let's see what teens say about their moms. First, teens have a stronger relationship with their moms based on a series of indicators including an ability to confide in, get along with, like and respect. Second, teens have a higher level of trust with their moms than with any other family member. For example, 64% of teens say they can always or usually talk it over with their mom when something is bothering them, compared to 37% who would say the same of their dad (frameworkinstitute.org). Third, moms have a greater impact on teens in giving advice on certain types of issues. For example, a close relationship with mothers is a strong factor in delaying teen girls from having sex for the first time (cnn.com). As you can see, moms play an invaluable role and have an incredible impact on the family. The example you set by the way you live your life is being watched and emulated by each family member. Now that you have been reminded of how important the mother role is, you don't have to fret that all of the pressure to be that "perfect" mom is on your shoulders. We learn and teach our kids at an early age the familiar, "...we are weak, but He is strong." Remember, when we are weak, which can seem more often than not when dealing with teenagers, He is strong. The parenting role, as well as any other role you have was not intended to be filled on your own. Constantly ask God for help. God is the ONLY way to have a healthy and successful family. Hello From Pastor Tim Ode to My Mother Mommy, Mommy you’re the best You really stand up to the test Of what a mom should really be I can’t help but think you’re the Very, very best there is Even when your hair’s a frizz As I've grown you've shown me love The kind that is from up above Patient, kind, and all the rest I truly know that I am blessed And now that I've become a man You still remain my biggest fan It means so much I have to say Have a happy mother’s day! Usaweekend.com conducted a study on parents and found some information about a teen's perception of the mom: Which one of the following do you think is most important to your mother? 7% - Work/Career 84% - Our Family 2% - Friendships 3% - Religious Activity 0% - Community Service 4% - Not Applicable As a teen, do you agree with her choice (from the answers above)? 90% - Yes 10% - No

	Though the role of the mom is invaluable, she may not always be treated this way. Here are some discussion questions to show just how important moms are. 1. Make a list of duties and responsibilities each family member has within the family. Which list is longer? Why do you think that? 2. Do you think your mom feels appreciated? Why or why not? What could YOU do today to encourage your mom? 3. What do you like most about your mom? Why did you give that answer? 4. What is the most valuable lesson you have learned from your mom? Why is it such an important lesson?		Moms...pray that: 1. God will allow you to live in such a way that reflects Him in every area of your life. 2. God will give you invaluable opportunities to encourage, challenge and love on your teen. Dads...pray that: 1. God will allow you to set the example on how a woman should be treated and respected. 2. God will give you the desire to serve your wife and meet her needs above your own. Summer Calendar/Web Site Check out the summer calendar. It's posted to the internet at fbcpeshtigo.com/Youth. Also, while you're there, I want to invite you to click on the parent page. It has all of the back issues of the Parent Link newsletter. There are some really good issues there that offer good advice. I'm sorry, those who have been dealing with kids that are too good and too compliant don't have anything there, but all the normal parents can get something from them. Also, on the links page there are some interesting links to sites that are good for your teen. thewayofthemaster.com is all about witnessing. I recommend it for anyone who is interested in using it as a witnessing tool. The Christianity Today site has some great advice columns for teens...ones you can trust! There are others there and more to come. You're the champions of ministry to your kids. Blessings to you in this endeavor! Tim
	Did you know... * 8 in 10 women (80%) and teen girls (83%) think their mom is beautiful but less than 25% of daughters always/often tell their mom she's beautiful. Seventy two percent of sons think their mom is beautiful, but only 6% of them often or always tell her she is beautiful. (seniorjournal.com) * An overwhelming majority of teens think highly of their mother (84%). Fifty seven percent of teens want to be like their mother. (Child Trends Study) * When teens were asked to assign a letter grade to their mom or primary female guardian for the variety of tasks she performs, 96% of teens say that they'd give their moms either an A (67%) or a B (29%) overall. (American Demographics - May 1, 2003) * While they may not always show it, teenagers do realize mom's job is tough. Only 5% of girls and 4% of boys think "being a mom is easy". (American Demographics - May 1, 2003)

	This page is designed to inform and educate parents and is not meant to endorse any product, music or movie. Our prayer is that you will make informed decisions on what your student listens to, wears and sees.
	Michael Pritzl of The Violet Burning was raised in and around the Los Angeles punk scene. “As a rebellious punk he refused to believe in God simply because someone said he should. One day, as with Saul, God showed Himself.” He took his sister’s guitar and learned to play and write music. His passion grew and he started The Violet Burning. With “This is the Moment”, the group has reached many with the message of hope. Some of their songs have been featured on MTV and film soundtracks. Michael gives credit for any success by saying, “It is truly humbling when I look back on what God has done in my life.” thevioletburning.com HOT Prom trends... Girls: *feminine fabrics - like taffeta, satin, lace and charmeuse *Fun trims - ribbons, ruffles, bows and beads Guys: *Longer coats or white jackets mixed with black pants *Strong, colorful accessories azcentral.com		Albums: "Get Behind Me Satan"-due to release June 2005 "Elephant" - 4/03 "Maximum" - 12/02 "White Blood Cells" - 7/01 Background: This duo from Michigan was formed in 1997. Consisting of Jack White (vocals/guitar/keyboards) and Meg White (drums/backup vocals), The White Stripes has a striking stage presence dressing in red, white and black to mimic their trademark peppermint motif. Their sound is a mix of punk, blues, garbage and modern rock, but the undercurrent to their work has been a love of American folk music, and a careful approach to intriguing and evocative lyrics. Being seen on TV, in magazines and gaining four MTV Video Music Award nominations helped them gain international attention. Their much anticipated release of their new album is scheduled for June 2005 and is expected to have much success. sonic.net/billboard.com Potential Controversy:Their previous album, "Elephant", did not contain blatent controversy. While the title of the upcoming release raises red flags, it is too early to tell if the duo will follow suit with most bands and introduce controversial themes. Parent/Teen Q&A:"Everyone (USA) thinks they can have whatever they want. They're really spoiled and gluttonous; People don't want...any sort of rules..." Jack White (observer.guardian.co.uk) Do you agree with this statement? Why or why not?
	How action-packed will your summer be? Will these films be a part of your plans? TITLE RATING RED FLAGS GENRE STARRING Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith PG-13 For sci-fi violence and some intense images Science Fiction Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman, Hayden Christensen House of Wax R For horror violence, some sexual content, and language Horror Elisha Cuthbert, Jon Abrahams, Paris Hilton Mindhunters R For violence/strong graphic images, language and sexual content Drama/Thriller Val Kilmer, LL Cool J, Christian Slater

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 Work Camp Meeting During Food Fun and Fellowship at the Church. 2 Pastor Tim gets in line for the May 19th release of Star Wars. 3 Pastor Tim realizes he forgot to pack food and goes home really disappointed. 4 Small Groups at the Church, the Selness' and in Pound 6:30 - 8:00 PM 5   6   7 Cafe night from 7:00 - 9:00 PM 8 Video Ministry Meets after Church-3:30. 9 Pastor Tim gets back in line for the May 19th release of Star Wars. 10 Youth Council Meeting 11 Small Groups at the Church, the Selness' and in Pound 6:30 - 8:00 PM 12 Pastor Tim gets beat up by people who think it's stupid to be in line for Star Wars so early and goes home embarrassed. 13   14 Training Day for Work Camp 8 AM - Noon, Location TBA Praise and Prayer at North Shore Baptist in Menominee at 6:00 PM 15   16 Pastor Tim gets back in line for the May 19th release of Star Wars. 17   18 Small Groups at the Church, the Selness' and in Pound 6:30 - 8:00 PM 19 Pastor Tim doesn't realize that he forgot to buy tickets until he tries to go into the theater. He cries himself to sleep. 20   21 Cafe night from 7:00 - 9:00 PM 22 Youth Rally 6:00 - 8:30 23   24   25 Small Group Fun Night at the Church. All Groups! 6:30 - 8:00 26   27   28   29 Graduation Sunday 30   31 Pastor Tim finally gets to see Star Wars.

Stay tuned for details on the Six Flags trip.