December, 2001

A perfect present for yourself or your school: FAIR’s expanded and updated book, Adoption and the Schools: Resources for Parents and Teachers. 256 pages. Everything you and your child’s teacher need to anticipate problematic assignments, communicate effectively, and support your child in school. See order form on FAIR’s web site. www.fairfamilies.org

FAIR is not planning a Holiday Party this year. Have a wonderful holiday season. News from FAIR will soon be in the mail.

Saturday, Dec. 1, Pact's 3rd Annual MULTICULTURAL BOOKFAIR, We the People Auditorium, 200 Harrison St. (enter on 2nd St., easy parking), near Jack London Square across from the Amtrak station in Oakland. Bookfair is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 510-243-9460.

Sun. Dec. 2. 2-5pm. Informal Gathering on the peninsula to work on Lifebooks. Contact Maria at martinmccrae@earthlink.net  to reserve your space and for directions.

Mon. Dec. 3. 7:30-9:30pm. Coastside FAIR. Half Moon Bay Area support group. Share your story, your current challenge, or your latest success. RSVP through FAIR.

Mon. Dec. 10. 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is just for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Pre-adopt parents may also find this group helpful. Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space! 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP Lansing. lansing@fairfamilies.org 

Wed. Dec. 12?? 7:00pm. East Bay FAIR Adoptive Parents Group Oakland. The date has not been firmly set. Call sjhoffmann@hotmail.com for directions and to RSVP. Childcare may be available.

Tues. Dec. 18 7pm. Parent Support Group. San Jose. This group, which will meet on the 3rd Tues. of each month is facilitated by Louise, FAIR Board Member and experienced adoptive parent. All FAIR members are most welcome to attend. Location: Alum Rock Covenant Church at 218 Kirk Ave., San Jose. The cross street is McKee Ave. RSVP to louise@rainbow-family.org  Ask about childcare. 

Wed. Dec. 19. 7:30pm. Parent Support Group. Palo Alto. For adoptive parents of older school aged children, teens and up. Parents of young kids, see Dec. 10 above. Before coming RSVP Lansing lansing@fairfamilies.org  Pre-adopt parents of older and special needs kids are also welcome.

FYI: Upcoming Events

Saturday, January 5. Resolve’s Annual Adoption Conference, Journey of the Heart. Holy Names College, Oakland. A day of workshops especially for pre-adoptive and adoptive parents. For information: 415-788-3002 or 788-6772.

Coming in January: FAIR is planning another series of parent/child groups, Understanding our Stories. If you are interested in this popular group experience, facilitated by therapists, experienced parents, and adult adoptees, call Nancy at 650-856-6425 or nancycng@yahoo.com  The group will meet on 6 weekday evenings from 6:30-8:30pm. Children should be from 8-10. There will be a fee for the groups.

Also in January/February: FAIR will present a Lifebook Workshop, designed to help parents begin to put together the story of their child’s adoption journey. Maria will keep a list of interested people.or martinmccrae@earthlink.net 

Sunday, February 10. FAIR Lunar New Year Party. Los Altos. For all families. Details to come.

Saturday, March 16, 5:30-7:30pm. FAIR on Ice Party. Palo Alto. Save the date.


November, 2001

The FAIR on ICE Party on October 20 was a great success. It was wonderful to see so many beautiful families, with over 70 skaters and many more "encouragers" who enjoyed picnicking and visiting. The rink is already reserved just for FAIR on Saturday evening, March 16, 2002! Save the date!

November is National Adoption Awareness Month. For wonderful ideas on how to celebrate visit www.perspectivespress.org

Sat. Nov. 3. 8-4. Parent Conference, Emeryville. See details below.

Mon. Nov. 5. Understanding Our Stories: Palo Alto 6:30 –8:30pm. The last (of 4) group meetings for adopted children ages 7-9 and their parents presented by AFTER and FAIR. The parent group facilitated by professional parents and a simultaneous kids group facilitated by parents and therapists. This group is now closed, but if you are interested in a similar group in the future, please contact Nancy Ng (650) 856-6425.

Mon. Nov. 5. 7:30-9:30pm. Coastside FAIR. Half Moon Bay Area support group. Share your story, your current challenge, or your latest success. RSVP Roxanne or Judith through FAIR.

Sun. Nov. 4. 2-5pm. Informal Gathering on the peninsula to work on Lifebooks. Contact Maria at martinmccrae@earthlink.net  to reserve your space and for directions. Space is limited but Maria can help interested people start another small group close to home.

Note: Santa Cruz area parents. Please contact Maria if you are interested in a local workshop.

Wed. Nov. 14. 7:00pm. East Bay FAIR Adoptive Parents Group Oakland. The date has not been set yet! Contact Susan sjhoffmann@hotmail.com  for directions and to RSVP. Childcare may be available.

Mon. Nov. 12. 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is just for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Pre-adopt parents may also find this group helpful. Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space! 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP Lansing lansing@fairfamilies.org 

Tues. Nov. 20. 7pm. Parent Support Group. San Jose. This group, which will meet on the 3rd Tues. of each month is facilitated by Jayne, an AFTER parent partner and Louise, FAIR Board Member and experienced adoptive parent. All FAIR members are most welcome to attend. Location: Alum Rock Covenant Church at 218 Kirk Ave., San Jose. The cross street is McKee Ave. RSVP to Jayne at or jrovianek@yahoo.com  or louise@rainbow-family.org  Ask about childcare.

Wed. Nov. 28. 7:30pm. Parent Support Group. Palo Alto. For adoptive parents of older school aged children, teens and up. Parents of young kids, see Nov. 12 above. Before coming RSVP Lansing or lansing@fairfamilies.org  Pre-adopt parents of older and special needs kids are welcome.

FYI: Opportunities for Parents and Professionals:

Saturday, Nov. 3, Emeryville. 8am-4pm. First Annual Parent Conference. Holiday Inn Bay Bridge. Raising Our Children Using River Wisdom – A Holistic Model. Sponsored by Black Adoption Placement and Research Center. This is a day long conference for adoptive parents featuring guest speaker Christor Lewis, father of 10 children, 7 of whom were adopted. Participants may choose from a number of workshops including Kinship Families, Cognitive and Physical Development, Gay and Lesbian Parenting, Transracial Families, Male Parenting, and Parent Empowerment and Support Services. This should be a valuable and interesting day of learning and networking for adoptive parents! For information call 510-839-3678, Ext. 209. Cost: $35. Advance registration. $40. At the door.


October, 2001

FAIR FAMILY FUN – YOU ARE INVITED!

Saturday, October 20, 5:30-7:30pm

What: The first FAIR on ICE party of the season will take place on at the Winter Lodge in Palo Alto. Join other FAIR families for a wonderful evening at this cozy outdoor rink. FAIR has exclusive use of the ice and the picnic/barbecue area. Non-skaters are welcome to watch, encourage, and chat. Please invite extended family members and friends. Waiting parents are welcome. Teens are encouraged to come. Wheelchairs and strollers glide beautifully on the ice, so bring the little ones! There is a covered area in case of rain. Our goal is 75 skaters. See you there!

When: Saturday, October 20, 5:30-7:30pm. Two hours goes quickly! Come early.

Where: Winter Lodge, 3009 Middlefield Rd., Palo Alto

From 101, take the Oregon Expswy exit then left onto Middlefield.

From 280 take the Page Mill exit. This becomes Oregon. Turn right onto Middlefield.

Just past the Arco station on your left turn into the Winter Lodge parking lot.

What to bring: A simple dinner for your family: sandwiches, hamburgers, hot dogs, etc. Gas barbecues and picnic tables will be ready. (There is a Safeway with a deli and a Round Table almost next to the rink.) FAIR will provide hot chocolate, cookies, cups, plates, utensils, mustard, catsup, and relish. No alcohol, please.

What to expect: Fun, good company, a great time! This is one of our most popular events, definitely worth a drive. Since FAIR has the whole rink, it will be a relaxed, comfortable evening for all. Del Valle campers – reunite on the ice!

Cost: $9.00 per skater, collected for the Winter Lodge at the door. This includes skate rental, even if you own skates. No RSVP necessary. Just come!!! Questions? Call Lansing 650-328-6832. Lansing@fairfamilies.org

Mon. Oct. 1. NEW! Understanding Our Stories: Group for adopted children ages 8-10 and their parents presented by AFTER and FAIR at Mickey’s Place in Palo Alto on Monday evenings,

October 1,15,22 and 29, 6:30 –8:30pm. The format will be a parent group facilitated by professional parents and a simultaneous kids group facilitated by parents and therapists. Space is limited to the first 6 families. For more information contact Nancy Ng (650) 856-6425.

Mon. Oct. 1. 7:30-9:30pm. Coastside FAIR. Half Moon Bay Area support group. Share your story, your current challenge, or your latest success. RSVP Roxanne 650-560-9016 or Judith 650-726-2823.

Sun. Oct 7. 3-5pm. Informal Gathering on the peninsula to work on Lifebooks. Contact Maria at 650-595-2411 ASAP or martinmccrae@earthlink.net  to reserve your space and for directions. Space is limited but Maria can help interested people start another small group close to home.

Note: Santa Cruz area parents. Please contact Maria if you are interested in a local workshop.

Wed. Oct. 10. 7:00pm. East Bay FAIR Adoptive Parents Group Oakland. The date has not been set yet! Contact Susan sjhoffman@hotmail.com  for the date, the directions and to RSVP. Childcare may be provided.

Mon. Oct 8. 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is just for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space! 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP Lansing lansing@fairfamilies.org 

Tues. Oct. 16. 7pm. Parent Support Group. San Jose. This is a new group, which will meet on the 3rd Tues. of each month. Facilitated by Jayne, an AFTER parent partner and Louise, FAIR Board Member and experienced adoptive parent. All FAIR members are most welcome to attend. Location: Alum Rock Covenant Church at 218 Kirk Ave., San Jose. The cross street is McKee Ave. RSVP to Jayne jrovianek@yahoo.com  or louise@rainbow-family.org  Ask about childcare.

Wed. Oct. 24 7:30pm. Parent Support Group. Palo Alto. For adoptive parents of older school aged children, teens and up. Parents of young kids, see Oct. 8 above. Before coming contact lansing@fairfamilies.org  Pre-adopt parent of older and special needs kids are welcome.

FYI: Opportunities for Parents and Professionals:

October 12. All day workshop in Monterey: Parents as Healers. Team Approach to Supporting Foster and Adoptive Families Living with Attachment Impaired Children. Presenters: Terry Levy, Ph.D., and Michael Orlans, M.A. Registration information: Call Kinship Center. 831-649-3033. Scholarships for FAIR parents may be available.

October 13. 8:30am-5pm. Kitty Petty ADD/LD Institute Symposium. “Choices, Changes & Challenges: Improving Work, Home & School Interpersonal Relationships” Los Altos. For parents, professionals, and adults affected by ADHD. Information: 650-329-9443 in p.m. kitty@kpinst.org 


September, 2001

Sun. Sept. 9. 3-5pm. Informal Gathering on the peninsula to work on Lifebooks. Contact Maria martinmccrae@earthlink.net  ASAP to reserve your space and for more information. Space is limited but Maria can help interested people start another small group close to home.

Note: Santa Cruz area parents. Please contact Maria if you are interested in a local workshop on the issues involved in making a life book to tell your child’s adoption story. She is collecting names for a possible workshop and optional follow-up informal monthly group to work on books together.

Mon. Sept 10. 7:30-9:30pm. Coastside FAIR. Half Moon Bay Area support group. Share your story, your current challenge, or your latest success. RSVP to FAIR.

Mon. Sept. 10. 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is just for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Facilitated by experienced FAIR adoptive parents. Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space! 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP Lansing lansing@fairfamilies.org 

Tues. Sept. 18. 7pm. Parent Support Group. San Jose. This is a new group which will meet on the 3rd Tues. of each month. Facilitated by Jayne, an AFTER parent partner and Louise, FAIR Board Member and experienced adoptive parent. All FAIR members are most welcome to attend. Location: Alum Rock Covenant Church at 218 Kirk Ave., San Jose. The cross street is McKee Ave. RSVP to Jayne at jrovianek@yahoo.com  or louise@rainbow-family.org  Ask about child care.

Wed. Sept. 7:00pm. East Bay FAIR Adoptive Parents Group Oakland. Call Susan sjhoffman@hotmail.com  for directions and to RSVP. Child care may be provided.

Wed. Sept. 19 7:30pm. Parent Support Group. Palo Alto. For adoptive parents of school aged children, teens and up. Parents of young kids, see Sept. 10 above. Before coming RSVP Lansing lansing@fairfamilies.org 

FYI: Opportunities for Parents and Professionals:

Aug. 23-Sept. 15 The You in Me: An Exploration of Mixed Race Identity. A Multimedia Exhibition. Works Gallery. San Jose. Free special events for kids. Aug 25 Ramona Winner, author of It’s Okay to Be Different! Children’s presentation for K-3. Sept.1. Steve Seskin sings Don’t Laugh at Me. Sept. 1 Dr. Ray Wilkins reads, Yoome and the Wonder Team. Sept. 8. Family Day. Hundreds of books presented at a Multicultural Book Fair. Packets for kids. Refreshments. For more information contact the Works Gallery, 30 North 3rd 408-290-8378.

Sept. 28-29. Understanding, Assessing and Treating Attachment Disorder in Children and Families. Two day-long workshops in Oakland. Presenters; Terry Levy, Ph.D. and Michael Orlans, M.A. Registration information contact Pacer at 888-746-0514 or www.pacer-adoption.org 

October 5-October 7. Mosaic Family Camp for Multi-Racial and Multi-Cultural Jewish Families at Camp Tawonga (on the Tuolomne River next to Yosemite.) Celebrate Jewish multi-racial families! www.tawonga.org  (415) 543-2267

October 12. All day workshop in Monterey: Parents as Healers. Team Approach to Supporting Foster and Adoptive Families Living with Attachment Impaired Children. Presenters: Terry Levy, Ph.D., and Michael Orlans, M.A. Registration information: Call Kinship Center. 831-649-3033. Scholarships for FAIR parents may be available.

October 13. 8:30am-5pm. Kitty Petty ADD/LD Institute Symposium. “Choices, Changes & Challenges: Improving Work, Home & School Interpersonal Relationships” Los Altos. For parents, professionals, and adults affected by ADHD. Information: 650-329-9443 in p.m. kitty@kpinst.org 

Plan Ahead for FAIR Events:

FAIR will be reserving the Winter Lodge in Palo Alto for our popular FAIR on ICE parties, hopefully in October and in March on a Saturday evening, 5:30-7:30pm. Check the Calendar and news section on the web site. We cannot reserve the dates until September 19. Details next month.

NEW!! Understanding Our Stories: Group for adopted children ages 8-10 and their parents presented by AFTER and FAIR at Mickey’s Place in Palo Alto on Monday evenings, October 1,15,22 and 29, 6:30 –8:30pm. Derived from successful curriculum developed by NACAC and presented by FAIR in past years, the format will be a parent group facilitated by professional parents and a simultaneous kids group facilitated by parents and therapists. Space is limited to the first 6 families. For more information contact Nancy Ng (650) 856-6425.


August, 2001

FAIR FAMILY FUN – FAIR ANNUAL CAMPOUT

FRIDAY & SATURDAY, AUGUST 18 & 19

Don’t miss FAIR’s Annual Campout at Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore. Meet new and old friends. FAIR has reserved and paid for 12 large campsites in one area, most of which can be shared by two families. There is a safe swimming lake in the park with lifeguards and shade where non-campers can join us for the day on Saturday. No reservations needed for day use, but please call so we can watch for you.

Arrive at the campsite in the afternoon on Friday and beat the traffic, or come late (before 10pm.)

Again this year we are asking for each camping family to pay $20 for two nights even if you can only come for one night. This simplifies our campsite assignments. First time campers welcome! There are picnic tables, fire pits, water, flush toilets, and showers - plus beautiful starry nights, wild turkeys, and great company. Campers will share a simple potluck dinner on Saturday evening.

To reserve your space:

Send a check for $20, made out to FAIR to the FAIR address on this flier.

Contact Elsje Gurko at DEJAfamily@aol.com to let her know how many people in your family and when you plan to arrive. She will assign campsites so let her know if you would like to share or be close to another particular family. She will also send you a map, campground regulations and directions. Each site can accommodate up to 10 people. Please note that the second car at each site will be asked at the check-in station to pay $6.00. FAIR will refund that money if requested so that each family will pay just $20.

Spaces will be assigned on a first come, first served, so please make your plans as soon as you can.

Sun. Aug. 5. 3-5pm. Informal Gathering on the peninsula to work on Lifebooks. Contact Maria martinmccrae@earthlink.net  to reserve your space and for more information.

Mon. Aug. 6. 7:30-9:30pm. Coastside FAIR. Half Moon Bay Area support group. Share your story, your current challenge, or your latest success. RSVP to Roxanne or Judith through FAIR.

Tues. Aug. 7. 7pm. Parent Support Group. San Jose. This is a new group which will meet on the 2nd Tues. of each month. Facilitated by Jayne, an AFTER parent partner. All FAIR members are most welcome to attend. Location: Alum Rock Covenant Church at 218 Kirk Ave., San Jose. The cross street is McKee Ave. RSVP to Jayne at 408-259-9963.

Mon. Aug. 14. 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is just for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space! 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP Lansing lansing@fairfamilies.org 

Wed. Aug. 15. 7:00pm. East Bay FAIR Adoptive Parents Group Oakland. Contact Susan sjhoffman@hotmail.com  for directions and to RSVP. Child care may be provided.

Fri.-Sun. Aug. 17-19. FAIR’s Annual Campout. Del Valle Regional Park, Livermore. See other side.

Wed. Aug. 22. 7:30pm. Parent Support Group. Palo Alto. For adoptive parents of school aged children, teens and up. Parents of young kids, see Aug. 14, above. RSVP lansing@fairfamilies.org 

Save the dates: Opportunities for Parents and Professionals:

Sept. 28-29. Understanding, Assessing and Treating Attachment Disorder in Children and Families. Oalkand. For professionals and parents. Presenters; Terry Levy, Ph.D. and Michael Orlans, M.A. Registration information: Pacer at 888-746-0514 or www.pacer-adoption.org 

October 5-October 7. Mosaic Family Camp for Multi-Racial and Multi-Cultural Jewish Families at Camp Tawonga (on the Tuolomne River next to Yosemite.) Celebrate Jewish multi-racial families! www.tawonga.org  (415) 543-2267

October 12. All day workshop in Monterey: Parents as Healers. Team Approach to Supporting Foster and Adoptive Families Living with Attachment Impaired Children. Presenters: Terry Levy, Ph.D and Michael Orlans, M.A. Registration information: Call Kinship Center. 831-649-3033. Parent scholarships may be available.


July, 2001

Coming in August: FAIR’s revised and expanded book, Adoption and the Schools: Resources for Parents and Teachers. Watch for more information on FAIR’s website. Thanks to all of our contributors!

New on FAIR’s website: Archives of News from FAIR. Check it out!

FAIR FAMILY FUN – FAIR ANNUAL CAMPOUT

FRIDAY & SATURDAY, AUGUST 18 & 19

Don’t miss FAIR’s Annual Campout at Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore. Meet new and old friends. FAIR has reserved and paid for 12 large campsites in one area, most of which can be shared by two families. There is a safe swimming lake in the park with lifeguards and shade where non-campers can join us for the day on Saturday. No reservations needed for day use, but please call so we can watch for you.

Arrive at the campsite in the afternoon on Friday and beat the traffic, or come late (before 10pm.)

Again this year we are asking for each camping family to pay $20 for two nights even if you can only come for one night. This simplifies our campsite assignments. First time campers welcome! There are picnic tables, fire pits, water, flush toilets, and showers - plus beautiful starry nights, wild turkeys, and great company. Campers will share a simple potluck dinner on Saturday evening.

To reserve your space:

To reserve your space:

Send a check for $20, made out to FAIR to the FAIR address on this flier.

Contact Elsje Gurko, 831-630-0311 or DEJAfamily@aol.com to let her know how many people in your family and when you plan to arrive. She will assign campsites so let her know if you would like to share or be close to another particular family. She will also send you a map, campground regulations and directions. Each site can accommodate up to 10 people. Please note that the second car at each site will be asked at the check-in station to pay $6.00. FAIR will refund that money if requested so that each family will pay the $20.

Spaces will be assigned on a first come, first served, so please make your plans as soon as you can. There will be more information in next month’s calendar.

 

Mon. July 2. 7:30-9:30pm. Coastside FAIR. Half Moon Bay Area support group. Share your story, your current challenge, or your latest success.

Mon. July 9. 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is just for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Facilitated by experienced FAIR adoptive parents. Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space! 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP Lansing lansing@fairfamilies.org 

Wed. July 11. 7pm. Parent Support Group. San Jose. This is a new group which will meet on the 2nd Wed. of each month. Facilitated by Jayne, an AFTER parent partner. All FAIR members are most welcome to attend. Location: Alum Rock Covenant Church at 218 Kirk Ave., San Jose. The cross street is McKee Ave. We are using the house on the church property that is to the right of the church. RSVP to Jayne at 408-259-9963.

Tues. July 17. 7:00pm. East Bay FAIR Adoptive Parents Group Oakland. Contact Susan sjhoffman@hotmail.com  for directions and to RSVP. Child care may be provided.

Wed. July 25. 7:30pm. Parent Support Group. Palo Alto. For adoptive parents of school aged children, teens and up. Parents of young kids, see July 9, above. RSVP lansing@fairfamilies.org 

From Maria:

As a follow-up to the very well received Lifebook Workshop on April 29, some FAIR members would like to meet once a month to work on the books together will be the first Sunday of every month, 3-5pm, starting August 5th. We are limiting the group to 8 people, first 8 to RSVP, and we will be meeting at a different house every month, so people who read about it in the calendar will need to call me first to see if there is space. Right now we have a group of about 8 who are interested. If we get more, we will probably split into north and south group. Contact Maria at martinmccrae@earthlink.net for more information.

Save the date:

October 12. All day workshop in Monterey: Parents as Healers. Team Approach to Supporting Foster and Adoptive Families Living with Attachment Impaired Children. Presenters: Terry Levy, Ph.D and Michael Orlans, M.A. Registration information: Call Kinship Center. 831-649-3033. Parent scholarships may be available.


June, 2001

FAIR FAMILY FUN – FAIR ANNUAL CAMPOUT

FRIDAY & SATURDAY, AUGUST 18 & 19

Don’t miss FAIR’s Annual Campout at Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore. Meet new and old friends. FAIR has reserved and paid for 12 large campsites in one area, most of which can be shared by two families. There is a safe swimming lake in the park with lifeguards and shade where non-campers can join us for the day on Saturday. No reservations needed for day use, but please call so we can watch for you.

Arrive at the campsite in the afternoon on Friday and beat the traffic, or come late (before 10pm.)

Again this year we are asking for each camping family to pay $20 for two nights even if you can only come for one night. This simplifies our campsite assignments. First time campers welcome! There are picnic tables, fire pits, water, flush toilets, and showers - plus beautiful starry nights, wild turkeys, and great company. Campers will share a simple potluck dinner on Saturday evening.

To reserve your space:

Send a check for $20, made out to FAIR to the FAIR address on this flier.

Contact Elsje Gurko DEJAfamily@aol.com  to let her know how many people in your family and when you plan to arrive. She will assign campsites so let her know if you would like to share or be close to another particular family. She will also send you a map, campground regulations and directions. Each site can accommodate up to 10 people. Please note that the second car at each site will be asked at the check-in station to pay $6.00. FAIR will refund that money if requested so that each family will pay the $20.

Spaces will be assigned on a first come, first served, so please make your plans as soon as you can. There will be more information in next month’s calendar.

Mon. June 4. 7:30-9:30pm. Coastside FAIR. Half Moon Bay Area support group. Share your story, your current challenge, or your latest success. RSVP through FAIR.

Sun. June 10. Deadline for submissions for FAIR’s “Adoption and the Schools: Resources for Parents and Teachers.” We are updating, revising and expanding our popular materials. Please send in ideas of what would be most useful to you, what you would like teachers to understand about adoptive families, and any stories of school related adoption incidents. Examples of difficult assignments and how you handled them, children’s writings or drawings are welcome. Send by email to lansing@fairfamilies.org or to the FAIR P.O. Box. Thanks.

Mon. June 11. 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is just for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Facilitated by experienced FAIR adoptive parents. Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space! 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP Lansing lansing@fairfamilies.org 

Wed. June 13. 7:00pm. East Bay FAIR Adoptive Parents Group Oakland. Call Susan sjhoffman@hotmail.com for directions and to RSVP. Child care may be provided.

Thurs. June 21. 6:30-8:30pm. Belmont. AFTER Workshop. RSVP. Eva Lanphere. 650-595-7623. Dinner and child care available. Presentation and discussion. Everyone welcome.

Wed. June 27. 7:30pm. Parent Support Group. Palo Alto. For adoptive parents of school aged children, teens and up. Parents of young kids, see June 11, above. RSVP lansing@fairfamilies.org 

As a follow-up to the very well received Lifebook Workshop on April 29, some FAIR members would like to meet once a month to work on the books together. Contact Maria martinmccrae@earthlink.net for more information.


May, 2001

FAIR Family Fun: Planning (Way) Ahead

FAIR’s Annual Campout at Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore. We will make reservations for the weekend of August 17-19 so mark your calendars now! This is a wonderful way to get to know other FAIR families. Watch for details.

Mon. May 7. 7:30-9:30pm. Coastside FAIR. Half Moon Bay Area support group. Share your story, your current challenge, or your latest success. Thanks to Roxanne for hosting the group! RSVP to Judith through FAIR.

Mon. May 14. 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is just for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Facilitated by experienced FAIR adoptive parents. Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space! 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP lansing@fairfamilies.org 

Wed. May 16. 7:15pm. East Bay FAIR Adoptive Parents Group Oakland. Contact Susan sjhoffman@hotmail.com or Ellen epompa@pdarrl.org 

Wed. May 16&17. Los Altos. Help One Child presents three workshops led by therapeutic foster mother Nancy Thomas for parents, families, teachers, and therapists of children with Reactive Attachment Disorder. For information and registration call Help One Child at 650-917-1210.

Thurs. May 17. 6:30-8:30pm. Belmont. AFTER Workshop. RSVP. Eva Lanphere. 650-595-7623. Dinner and child care available. Panel of Adopted Teens. Discussion. Everyone welcome.

Wed. May 23. 7:30pm. Parent Support Group. Palo Alto. For adoptive parents of school aged children, teens and up. Parents of young kids, see May 14, above. RSVP Lansing@fairfamilies.org 

SUN. APRIL 29 LIFEBOOK WORKSHOP (2-6pm):

Location: Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Redwood City. 2124 Brewster Ave. Redwood City.

Registration: If you have not registered, call Lansing to confirm space. $20 per family.

Learn how to tell your child’s story through a life story book. Wording, what to include and why, ways to present the information in an age-appropriate, honest way. Presentation, discussion, optional hands-on opportunities. Individual situations will be addressed. Bring your photos, momentos, letters, or any relevant information. There will be materials available to purchase if you need them to get started. Drinks and snacks provided or bring your own.

Workshop leaders: Janina Nadaner, a therapist and developmental expert with much adoption related experience, and Nancy Ng, adoptive parent, trainer and counselor. There will also be a “scrap-booking consultant” who will offer tips on preservation, presentation and materials.

Information: Lansing@fairfamilies.org  (No child care is available)

PLANNING AHEAD:

Colorado Heritage Camps offers African-American, Chinese, East Indian, Filipino, Korean, Latino, Russian and Vietnamese camps. At these well organized camps children make friends with kids "just like me," and parents and kids have had the opportunity to grow as a family.

For more information and a registration packet, call Pam Sweetser, Executive Director, at 303-388-3930 or e-mail hcamps@juno.com . Visit their web site www.heritagecamps.org 


April 2001

Congratulations

to the new Board members elected at FAIR’s Annual Meeting and Ice Skating Party! They are:

Hannah Feneron, returning to the Board after a four year break, and

Kathy Metz, joining the Board for the first time.

Thank you to retiring Board members, Selena Clara, Pat Ford, and Cathy Theimann for the special contributions you made to families and children.

FAIR Family Fun: Planning (Way) Ahead

FAIR’s Annual Campout at Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore. We will make reservations for the weekend of August 17-19 so mark your calendars now! This is a wonderful way to get to know other FAIR families. Watch for details.

Mon. April 9. 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is just for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Facilitated by experienced FAIR adoptive parents. Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space! 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP Lansing 650-328-6832. lansing@fairfamilies.org 

Thurs. April 12. 7:30-9:30pm. Coastside FAIR. Half Moon Bay Area support group. Share your story, your current challenge, or your latest success. RSVP to FAIR

Thurs. April 12. 7:15pm. East Bay FAIR Adoptive Parents Group Oakland. Contact Susan sooz@bba.com  or Ellen epompa@pdarrl.org  Please be sure to confirm date.

April 18-22. 2001an Adoption Odyssey. Mission Possible. The American Adoption Congress’ 23rd Annual Conference. Anaheim, CA Call 208-367-0280 or AACregistrar@yahoo.com 

Thurs. April 19. 6:30-8:30pm. Belmont. AFTER Workshop. RSVP. Eva Lanphere. 650-595-7623. Dinner and child care available. Therapy, Behavior and Attachment. Janina Nadaner and Nancy Ng

Wed. April 25. 7:30pm. Parent Support Group. Palo Alto. For adoptive parents of older school aged children, teens and up. Parents of young kids, see April 9, above. RSVP lansing@fairfamilies.org 

April 28. 10:am. Adoption Unity Gathering. First Unitarian Church, Franklin at Geary, SF. PACER presents an interfaith experience honoring lifelong connections in adoption. Speakers, ceremony, a reception. Call 925-935-6622 or visit PACER’s web site http://www.pacer-adoption.org/links.html 

Sun. April 29. 2-6pm. Lifebook Workshop. Redwood City. For parents of infants and young children. (6 and under). Details below.

SUN. APRIL 29 LIFEBOOK WORKSHOP:

Learn how to tell your child’s story through a life story book. Wording, what to include and why, ways to present the information in an age-appropriate, honest way. Presentation, discussion, optional hands-on opportunities. Individual situations will be addressed. Bring your photos, momentos, letters, or any relevant information. There will be materials available to purchase if you need them to get started. Drinks and snacks provided or bring your own.

Workshop leaders: Janina Nadaner, a therapist and developmental expert with much adoption related experience, and Nancy Ng, adoptive parent, trainer and counselor. There will also be a “scrap-booking consultant” who will offer tips on preservation, presentation and materials.

To hold your place send $20 per family with the ages of your children and when they arrived to FAIR by April 20. Please include a phone number Questions? Contact Lansing@fairfamilies.org (No child care is available)

PLANNING AHEAD:

FAIR Annual Campout at Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore. We plan to make reservations for the weekend of August 17-19 so plan to be there! Details later.

Colorado Heritage Camps offers African-American, Chinese, East Indian, Filipino, Korean, Latino, Russian and Vietnamese camps. At these well organized camps children make friends with kids "just like me," and parents and kids have had the opportunity to grow as a family.

For more information and a registration packet, call Pam Sweetser, Executive Director, at 303-388-3930 or e-mail hcamps@juno.com  Visit their web site www.heritagecamps.org .


March, 2001

FAIR FAMILY FUN – FAIR ON ICE

Saturday, MARCH 17, 5:30-7:30pm

What: The last FAIR on ICE party of the season will take place at the Winter Lodge in Palo Alto. Join other FAIR families for a wonderful evening at this cozy outdoor rink. FAIR has exclusive use of the ice and the barbecue/picnic area. Non-skaters are welcome to watch, encourage, and chat. Please invite extended family members and friends. Waiting parents are welcome. Teens are encouraged to come. Strollers and wheelchairs glide beautifully on the ice, so bring the little ones! There is a covered area in case of rain. Our goal is 75 skaters. See you there!

When: Saturday, March 17, 5:30-7:30pm. Two hours goes quickly! Come early.

Where: Winter Lodge, 3009 Middlefield Rd., Palo Alto

From 101, take the Oregon Expswy exit then left onto Middlefield.

From 280 take the Page Mill exit. This becomes Oregon. Turn right onto Middlefield.

Just past the Arco station on your left turn into the Winter Lodge parking lot.

What to bring: A simple dinner for your family: hamburgers, hot dogs, etc. Gas barbecues and picnic tables will be ready. (There is a Safeway with a deli and a Round Table almost next to the rink.) FAIR will provide hot chocolate, cookies, cups, plates, utensils, mustard, catsup, and relish. No alcohol, please.

What to expect: Fun, good company, a great time. This is one of our most popular events, definitely worth a drive. Since FAIR has the whole rink, it will be a relaxed, comfortable evening for all.

Cost: $9.00 per skater, collected for the Winter Lodge at the door. This includes skate rental; those with skates must also pay $9:00. No RSVP necessary. Just come!!! 

Questions? Lansing@fairfamilies.org 

More Family Fun: FAIR’s Annual Campout at Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore.  We plan to make reservations for the weekend of August 17-19 so mark your calendars now!  Details later.

Thurs. Mar. 8 7:30-9:30pm. Coastside FAIR. Half Moon Bay Area support group. Share your story, your current challenge, or your latest success. Contact FAIR

Mon. Mar. 12 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is just for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Facilitated by experienced FAIR adoptive parents. Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space! 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP Lansing. lansing@fairfamilies.org

Tues. Mar. 13 7:15pm. East Bay FAIR Adoptive Parents Group Oakland. Contact Susan sooz@bba.com  or Ellen epompa@pdarrl.org  This group is going strong!

Thurs. Mar. 15. 6:30-8:30pm. Belmont. AFTER Workshop. RSVP. Eva Lanphere. 650-595-7623. Dinner and child care available. Topic to be announced. Everyone welcome.

Saturday, March 17, 5:30-7:30pm, FAIR on ICE. Rain or shine. Winter Lodge, Palo Alto. Save the date! Everyone is invited. This doubles as FAIR’s annual meeting and elections. See you there!

Wed. Mar. 21. 7-9pm. View and discuss First Person Plural, an award winning documentary featuring an adult Korean adoptee who travels to Korea to find her birth information and relatives with the support of her adoptive family. BAAS meeting room, 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215, Mountain View. Everyone is welcome.

Wed. Mar. 28 7:30pm. Parent Support Group. Palo Alto. For adoptive parents of older school aged children, teens and up. Parents of young kids, see Mar.12, above. RSVP lansing@fairfamilies.org 

PLANNING AHEAD:

April 18-22. 2001an Adoption Odyssey. Mission Possible. The American Adoption Congress’ 23rd Annual Conference. Anaheim, CA For all whose life has been touched by adoption. Many wonderful workshops for professionals, parents, birthparents, adult adoptees. Call 208-367-0280 or email AACregistrar@yahoo.com  for registration information.

FAIR Annual Campout at Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore. We plan to make reservations for the weekend of August 17-19 so plan to be there! Details later.

Colorado Heritage Camps offers African-American, Chinese, East Indian, Filipino, Korean, Latino, Russian and Vietnamese camps. At these well organized camps children make friends with kids "just like me," and parents and kids have had the opportunity to grow as a family.

For more information and a registration packet, call Pam Sweetser, Executive Director, at 303-388-3930 or e-mail hcamps@juno.com. Visit their web site www.heritagecamps.org.


February, 2001

FAIR FAMILY FUN – YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED
FAIR and AFTER PRESENT:

LUNAR NEW YEAR

A Multicultural Celebration for ALL Adoptive Families

Sunday, February 4, 2001
1:30 P.M.

Los Altos Community Center
1 North San Antonio Road
Los Altos, CA

1:30: CRAFTS-GAMES-ACTIVITIES for the whole family

Tae Kwan Do Participatory Demonstration

3:30: Teen /Young Adult Panel facilitated by Susan Cox*

Special Entertainment for younger children

5:00: Traditional New Year Feast – for everyone

5:30: Lion Dancers

Drawing for Ethnic Prizes

Multicultural Books for Adults and Kids - Sale

6:00: Third Person Plural-award winning documentary of Search and Reunion in Korea – Special showing during clean-up time!

 

RSVP: Kim 831 637-1906 or email coffee@hollinet.com

Let us know how many children and adults.

$5/person(5 and up) or $20/family at the door

Directions:

280 to El Monte exit - El Monte EAST to Foothill Expwy. - Foothill Expwy NORTH to San Antonio Rd. - San Antonio Rd. EAST to entrance (entrance is on SOUTH side of street a couple blocks EAST of Foothill Espy. (entrance = Youth Center/Police Dept.)

From 101, take San Antonio Rd exit and follow WEST to entrance.

 

*FAIR is privileged to welcome Susan Soon-Keum Cox to our Lunar New Year Celebration. She will facilitate our panel and participate in the festivities.

Susan Soon-Keum Cox has worked with international adoption and child welfare issues for more than twenty years. Adopted from Korea in 1956, Susan’s life experience as an early international adoptee gives her a unique and personal perspective.

Since 1985, Susan has been involved with Heritage Camps for several hundred international adoptees. She has also directed tours to Korea for adult adoptees, adoptive families, and adopted couples.

She participated in The Hague Convention on Private International Law in the Netherlands, trained government officials in Australia and New Zealand regarding adoption issues, and was designated by the Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare as the US spokesperson for Korean adoption during the 1988 Olympic Games.

Susan was appointed to the President’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, has advised First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton on public policy regarding adoption and foster care, and participated in White House briefings on adoption by President Clinton.

In 1998 Susan attended the Vital Voices Women in Democracy Conference in Montevideo, Uruguay.

A nationally recognized presenter on international adoption, Susan has appeared on the NBC "Today Show", "Good Morning America", "Australia Today", CNN and in numerous national and international publications

Thurs. Feb. 8. 7:15pm. East Bay FAIR Adoptive Parents Group Oakland. Contact Susan sooz@bba.com  or Ellen epompa@pdarra.org  This group is going strong!

Thurs. Feb. 8. 7:30-9:30pm. Coastside FAIR. Half Moon Bay Area support group. Share your story, your current challenge, or your latest success. RSVP to Judith through FAIR.

Mon. Feb. 12. 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is just for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Facilitated by experienced FAIR adoptive parents. Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space! 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP Lansing. lansing@fairfamilies.org 

Thurs. Feb. 15. 6:30-8:30pm. Belmont. AFTER. Teens and Adoption – What they think. Video and discussion. Possible special teen guests. RSVP. Eva Lanphere. 650-595-7623.

Wed. Feb. 28 7:30pm. Parent Support Group. Palo Alto. For adoptive parents of older school aged children, teens and up. Parents of young kids, see Feb.12, above. RSVP lansing@fairfamilies.org 

Saturday, March 17, 5:30-7:30pm, FAIR on ICE. Rain or shine. Winter Lodge, Palo Alto. Save the date! Everyone is invited. This doubles as FAIR’s annual meeting and elections. Want to serve on the Board? Call Lansing for information.


January 2001

LUNAR NEW YEAR party

SUNDAY AFTERNOON, FEBRUARY 4

Save the date!

Los Altos Youth Center. Watch for special flyer and registration information. Every adoptive family is a blending of cultures. This will be an expanded party, with the theme of celebrating and honoring your child’s ethnicity/culture. Join us for fun and learning. Something for all ages. All adoptive families are most welcome. There will be food, hands-on activities, and learning opportunities for children and adults. Plan to be there!

Thursdays. 6:30-8:30pm. Parent Support and Networking Group. San Jose.
Contact Louise before coming to see if group is meeting. Louise@rainbow-family.org 

Sat. Jan. 6. All Day. Resolve Adoption Conference. Oakland. Excellent opportunity for pre-adoptive parents. Some parenting and post adoption issues also. Call Resolve at 415-788-672.

Mon. Jan 8. 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is just for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Discussion topics will be brought up by the group members but will include talking about adoption with your child and others, and developing new family traditions to include adoption and your child’s heritage. Facilitated by experienced FAIR adoptive parents. BAAS meeting room. 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP Lansing lansing@fairfamilies.org 

Wed. Jan. 10. 7:15pm. East Bay FAIR Adoptive Parents Group Oakland. Contact Susan sooz@bba.com or Ellen epompa@pdarra.org 

Thurs. Jan. 11. 7:30-9:30pm. Coastside FAIR. Half Moon Bay Area support group. Share your story, your current challenge, or your latest success. RSVP to Judith through FAIR.

Wed. Jan. 24. 7:30pm. Parent Support Group. Palo Alto. A monthly support group for adoptive parents of older school aged children, teens and up. Parents of young kids, see Jan. 8, above. Contact Lansing lansing@fairfamilies.org  if you plan to come.

Nationally known expert, Ira Chasnoff, M.D. Registration $10.00. Santa Clara U. California Fresh Room. For information call (408) 244-1169. Presented by Family Education Foundation.

Your Help is Needed:

FAIR is working to revise and update our Adoption and the Schools Manuals for Parents and Educators written in l992 with support from a mini-grant administered by the North American Council on Adoptable Children. FAIR has received further funding from NACAC to update and reprint. Please help us by sending information about your challenges as you work with school personnel, make adoption-related presentations, and help your child with assignments or adoption related incidents. We can use your stories, brief anecdotes, or suggestions on ways to support adopted children in the school setting. Send to Lansing at the FAIR address or to lansingw@earthlink.net  Thank you.

FYI:

AFTER, Adoptive Family Therapeutic and Educational Resources, is a collaboration of several agencies, funded by a Federal Grant and also through the Packard Foundation. FAIR has been a part of the collaboration from the planning stages to the present. In the third year of the Federal Grant, AFTER has decided to shift support from some of the monthly educational workshops and offer several half-day parent/child workshops. FAIR’s Lunar New Year celebration will be expanded under this funding and will be organized to provide activities and learning for all interested adoptive families. There will also be special workshops offered in the Santa Cruz/Monterey areas.

The popular monthly workshops in Belmont, now coordinated by social worker Eva Lanphere and AFTER will continue. We are hoping also to offer several evening workshops in the Mountain View and San Jose locations. Watch for further information.

In Santa Clara county AFTER is also providing specialized “wraparound” services to families who adopted through that county and are experiencing severe challenges.

PLANNING AHEAD: MORE FAIR FAMILY FUN

FAIR on ICE: Saturday, March 17, 5:30-7:30pm, rain or shine. Winter Lodge, Palo Alto. Save the date! Everyone is invited. This doubles as FAIR’s annual meeting and elections. Want to serve on the Board? Call Lansing for information.


Link to Calendar 2000