(HICKORY, NC) --- Frye Regional Medical Center’s Charlie’s Chaplains will offer an exceptional day of learning and fun through their infamous Skool to be held at First United Methodist Church in Hickory on September 23, 2006, 9AM-5PM. Humorously based on the premise of Einstein’s Theory of Relativity, the Skool ‘06 theme “Clowning is Not Rocket Science” will be demonstrated through hands-on study of varied performance arts.

This year’s creative ministry training program features sessions on venues to be explored by focusing on entertaining and many aspects of the art of clowning, presented for all levels of experience. Skool ’06 offers multiple-level classes taught simultaneously by experienced instructors and community volunteers. It is open to the public.

Charlie’s Chaplains’ Skool ‘06 class schedule includes: Finding the Clown Within,

Clown Makeup Labs (beginner to advanced level students), Gospel Magic, Balloon Sculpting, Puppetry, and Physical Theatre (Juggling/Mime). “Open Mic Theatre” at the close of the day offers all students and presenters who would like an opportunity to share and perform onstage in the newly-constructed FUMC Life Center.

As part of Charlie’s Chaplains’ 15-year anniversary celebration, pastors Robert Ford, Danny Leonard, and Dana McKim, ministry founders will attend Skool as honored guests and participate in the program. There will be a special awards and Skool graduation closing ceremony.

Charlie’s Marketplace will be open throughout the day, offering supplies and

program notes for purchase by Skool attendees.

Special Two-or-More Ministry Training and local mission opportunities are offered to area churches and other ministries. Interested groups are invited to enroll members in Charlie’s Chaplains’ Skool, receiving additional training offered and adopting FRMC monthly visitations as a shared local missions focus for one calendar year, under the tutelage and coordination of the resident hospital creative ministry.

The fee for this day-long intensive training session is $45. Special family and student prices are offered. Limited scholarships are also available. Program fee includes lunch on the premises and balloons. Skool students should bring clown makeup and balloon pump or puppet. A clown makeup palette may be ordered for the make up lab at the time of registration. Registration is required and must be received by September 13, 2006. For more information and to receive registration materials, please call Becky Cortino, Charlie’s Chaplains’ Coordinator (828) 326-0662.

OR -- use the handy-dandy Online Info Request Form on this page!

Charlie’s Chaplains is a not-for-profit group of dedicated, unpaid volunteers

sharing the heartfelt mission of helping FRMC patients feel better, through cheerful

spirits, lightening hearts, and brightening patients’ days with a gentle presence. This

clown ministry began their funny business in 1991, patrolling the hallways of FRMC cheering the patients and visitors, as well as clowning around with the staff each month.