Christian home schoolers start convention today

The Christian Home Educators Association of California will present the 24th annual Christian Home Educators Convention today through Sat., July 12 to 14 at the Long Beach Convention Center.

The event marks the beginning of a yearlong celebration of the association's 25 years of service.

The Thursday Exhibit Hall Grand Opening from 6 to 9 p.m. is available only to CHEA members who are registered for the convention. Individuals may register at the door and join CHEA to be admitted. On Friday and Saturday the exhibit hall will be open to all registered attendees.

Keynote speakers include Lou Priolo, author of "The Heart of Anger," and Ted Baehr, founder and publisher of Movieguide and chairman of the Christian Film and Television Commission.

Featured speakers include Phil Downer, president of Discipleship Network of America; Diane Kummer, Homeschooling Thru High School Program; Teresa Moon, executive director for Communicators for Christ; and Zan Tyler, home school advocate, lobbyist and media spokesperson.

Attendees can participate in general workshop sessions and exhibitor workshops.

Children ages 4 to 11 will have their own two-day event sponsored by Children's Conferences International. This year's theme is Secret Agents for God's Love. Each day requires a separate registration fee that includes lunch.

Teens ages 12 to 18 will have their own twoday convention featuring Generation Joshua and a mock presidential election. Teens can choose a one- or two-day registration, and lunch is not included.

Spouses may attend for free.

Registration costs for members are $90 for one day and $105 for two days. Nonmember costs are $120 for one day and $135 for two days. CHEA membership is $40. The children's convention is $40 each day. The teen convention fee $30 to $32 for one day and $40 to $42 for both days.

For more information, visit www.cheaofca.org.