December, 2005

FAIR FAMILY FUN – YOU ARE INVITED

FAIR HOLIDAY PARTY:
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2:30-4:30 .

Location: Parents Nursery School 2328 Louis Road, Palo Alto It’s easy to find – between Oregon Expsway and Embarcadero Road.

Especially for families with elementary children and younger. Older kids will enjoy helping. Waiting families are welcome. Meet other families with young kids!

What to Bring: A wrapped inexpensive gift for each of your children (marked with first & last name & age.) These will go into the appropriate “Santa’s bag” when you arrive, to be distributed later! A plate of cookies or simple finger foods to share. (Optional) We will be outside in a wonderful play yard. The crafts and food will be set up outside also, unless it rains. Please come rain or shine and dress warmly!

When: Party is from 2:30-4:30. Simple crafts and play from 2:30 on. Santa will appear at 3:30. Please arrive before he comes!

Helpers: Adults and Teen/older child helpers. We really need you! Please arrive at 2:00 to help set up and receive directions. See RSVP information below.

YOUR RSVP HELPS US PLAN! Call Wilma at 408-732-7776 or wilmachu@aol.com  to let us know how many people are coming, their ages, and if you could help at the party. Teens are especially wanted and needed to help.

Parents of School Ages Kids – Some parents have asked for a group for parents whose kids are in K-5th grades. Thanks to those who have responded with your interest. Wilma wilmachu@aol.com  is keeping a list of everyone and it looks as if we will be starting in January, but we will be in touch regularly. In the meantime, if your kids are on the younger side, feel free to come to the Parents of Young Kids Group.

Wed. Nov. 30. 7-9pm. “Moving On” – A group for parents of young adults ages 17 and up. Share the ups and downs of parenting kids who may have extra challenging behaviors or tasks at this stage of transition into the world beyond high school. For all adoptive parents of older teens and young adults. Facilitated by experienced adoptive parents. Meeting place: Saratoga. Contact Lansing lansingw@earthlink.net  or Kathy at Katherine.metz@comcast.net  for information. We will not meet in December but will be back in January.

Sat. Dec. 3. 2:30-4:30. FAIR Holiday Party. See above.

Sat. Dec. 3. Pact Family Day for Pact Members, including Teen and Tweens. Registration information at www.pactadopt.org  or 510-243-9460.

Mon. Dec. 12. 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Pre-adopt parents will also find this group helpful. Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space! 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP lansingw@earthlink.net

Fri. Dec. 16. FAIR Adoption Discussion and Support Group, San Francisco One topic of discussion will be coping with holiday stress, but an topic is welcome. For location and to RSVP, email amyk@stanfordalumni.org. FAIR membership encouraged but not required.

Planning Ahead: Please consider participating in this unique program.

FAIR Playshops 2006. FAIR is pleased once again to sponsor this popular adoption education program for children, PLAYSHOPS, facilitated by Jane Brown, an adoption professional and adoptive parent. Board members Amy Klatzkin and Mollie McCloud will be organizing the event locally. This is a wonderful opportunity for children to be with others who were adopted in a fun, structured, guided group. After Jane works with the children she meets with parents to talk about the groups’ experience and the age appropriate topics each group was involved with. FAIR encourages parents who have adopted in the US as well as those who adopted from other countries to register for this program. Many details are available through joining the Playshops announcements list: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/FAIR-Playshops2006/  or send a blank email message to: FAIR-Playshops2006-subscribe@yahoogroups.com 

MARCH 17-19, 2006: ADULT & OLDER KIDS
  • Fri. evening, March 17: Adult Workshop
  • Sat. daytime, March 18: Kids born 1996
  • Sat. evening, March 19: Born 1991-93
  • Sun. morning, March 20: Born 1994-95 
APRIL 8-9, 2006: YOUNGER KIDS
  • Sat. morning, April 8: Playshop 1, ages 5 (all) & 6 (first timers)
  • Sat. afternoon, April 8: Playshop 2, kids born 1999 and later
  • Sun. morning, April 9: Playshop 3, born 1998
  • Sun. afternoon, April 9: Playshop 4, born 1997

Registration will begin in February. You do not need to be a FAIR member to register, but FAIR members will get preference if sessions fill. Scholarships available to FAIR members. Contact amyk@stanfordalumni.org


November, 2005

FAIR FAMILY FUN – YOU ARE INVITED

FAIR HOLIDAY PARTY:
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2:30-4:30 .

Location: Parents Nursery School 2328 Louis Road, Palo Alto It’s easy to find – between Oregon Expsway and Embarcadero Road.

Especially for families with elementary children and younger. Older kids will enjoy helping. Waiting families are welcome. Meet other families with young kids!

What to Bring: A wrapped inexpensive gift for each of your children (marked with first & last name & age.) These will go into the appropriate “Santa’s bag” when you arrive, to be distributed later! A plate of cookies or simple finger foods to share. (Optional) We will be outside in a wonderful play yard. The crafts and food will be set up outside also, unless it rains. Please come rain or shine and dress warmly!

When: Party is from 2:30-4:30. Simple crafts and play from 2:30 on. Santa will appear at 3:30. Please arrive before he comes!

Helpers: Adults and Teen/older child helpers. We really need you! Please arrive at 2:00 to help set up and receive directions. See RSVP information below.

YOUR RSVP HELPS US PLAN! Call Wilma at 408-732-7776 or wilmachu@aol.com  to let us know how many people are coming, their ages, and if you could help at the party. Teens are especially wanted and needed to help.

Parents of School Ages Kids – Some parents have asked for a group for parents whose kids are in K-5th grades. Thanks to those who have responded with your interest. Wilma wilmachu@aol.com  is keeping a list of everyone and it looks as if we will be starting in January, but we will be in touch regularly. In the meantime, if your kids are on the younger side, feel free to come to the Parents of Young Kids Group.

Mon. 14. 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Pre-adopt parents will also find this group helpful. Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space! 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP lansingw@earthlink.net 

Fri. Nov. 18, 7-9 pm. FAIR Adoption Discussion and Support Group, San Francisco Continuing the focus on race and adoption, we'll discuss our families' experiences in the light of Cheri Register's book BEYOND GOOD INTENTIONS. Adoptive parents of color are warmly invited to attend and share your wisdom and experience with those of us in transracial families. For location and to RSVP, email amyk@stanfordalumni.org . FAIR membership encouraged but not required.

Sat. Nov. 19. National Adoption Awareness Month Celebration. San Jose State. See Flier. All families welcome!!! FAIR hopes to have a booth. Contact Minjieng@gmail.com  for details.

Wed. Nov. 30. 7-9pm. “Moving On” – A group for parents of young adults ages 17 and up. Share the ups and downs of parenting kids who may have extra challenging behaviors or tasks at this stage of transition into the world beyond high school. For all adoptive parents of older teens and young adults. Facilitated by experienced adoptive parents. Meeting place: Saratoga. Contact Lansing lansingw@earthlink.net  or Kathy at Katherine.metz@comcast.net  for information. We will send email reminder/RSVP request about a week before the meeting.

Planning Ahead: Please consider participating in this unique program.

FAIR Playshops 2006. FAIR is pleased once again to sponsor this popular adoption education program for children, PLAYSHOPS, facilitated by Jane Brown, an adoption professional and adoptive parent. Board members Amy Klatzkin and Mollie McCloud will be organizing the event locally. This is a wonderful opportunity for children to be with others who were adopted in a fun, structured, guided group. After Jane works with the children she meets with parents to talk about the groups’ experience and the age appropriate topics each group was involved with. FAIR encourages parents who have adopted in the US as well as those who adopted from other countries to register for this program. Many details are available through joining the Playshops announcements list: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/FAIR-Playshops2006/  or send a blank email message to: FAIR-Playshops2006-subscribe@yahoogroups.com 

MARCH 17-19, 2006: ADULT & OLDER KIDS
  • Fri. evening, March 17: Adult Workshop
  • Sat. daytime, March 18: Kids born 1996
  • Sat. evening, March 19: Born 1991-93
  • Sun. morning, March 20: Born 1994-95 
APRIL 8-9, 2006: YOUNGER KIDS
  • Sat. morning, April 8: Playshop 1, ages 5 (all) & 6 (first timers)
  • Sat. afternoon, April 8: Playshop 2, kids born 1999 and later
  • Sun. morning, April 9: Playshop 3, born 1998
  • Sun. afternoon, April 9: Playshop 4, born 1997

Registration will begin in February. You do not need to be a FAIR member to register, but FAIR members will get preference if sessions fill. Scholarships available to FAIR members. Contact amyk@stanfordalumni.org


October 2005

FAIR ON ICE

FAIR FAMILY FUN – YOU ARE INVITED!

Bring extended family members, other adoptive families, friends. We would like to get 100 skaters this year. RAIN or SHINE.

Saturday, October 22, 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 RINK AND 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!

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 gas 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, Girls’ Group Members – reunite on the ice!

Cost: $5.00 per skater, collected for the Winter Lodge at the door. Cash or checks to FAIR. This includes skate rental, even if you own skates. No RSVP necessary. Just come!!! Questions? Lansing@fairfamilies.org 

FAIR Holiday Party. Save the date: Saturday afternoon, December 3. Santa, crafts, and more.

Mon. Oct. 10. 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Pre-adopt parents will also find this group helpful. Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space! 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP lansingw@earthlink.net 

Sat. Oct. 15. Baby Care for Adopted Infants. Sponsored by Pact, An Adoption Alliance. 9-5, Kaiser Oakland. To register: http://store.yahoo.com/pactpress/evre.html  or call 510-243-9460

Sat. Oct. 15. Workshop. Untying the Knots: Tools for Adoptive Parents. 9-5, Los Altos. Hear from professionals in Child Psychiatry, Neuropsychology, Autism Disorders, Psychology, Counseling and International Adoption. Sponsored by Help One Child. For more information contact Judy Holmes www.helponechild.org

Fri. Oct. 21, 7-9 pm. FAIR Adoption Discussion and Support Group, San Francisco.

Last month the group decided to discuss the intersection of race and adoption, starting with the October meeting. The discussion is open to parents in all kinds of adoptive families. Race and racism affect everyone, not just people of color. How do we raise nonracist kids in a racist society? How does race and racism affect the adoption community? If we are white parents of children of color, how can we help our kids develop a positive racial identity?
We would especially appreciate the participation of adoptive parents of color who are willing to share some of their experiences growing up and their strategies for teaching kids to handle racism in all its forms, both overt taunts and subtle slights.
We'll be talking about our family's experiences and reflecting on Cheri Register's new book, BEYOND GOOD INTENTIONS, particularly the sections on racism.
For location and to RSVP, email amyk@stanfordalumni.org . FAIR membership encouraged but not required.

Wed. Oct. 19. 7-9pm. “Moving On” – A group for parents of young adults ages 17 and up. Share the ups and downs of parenting kids who may have extra challenging behaviors or tasks at this stage of transition into the world beyond high school. For all adoptive parents of older teens and young adults. Facilitated by experienced adoptive parents. Meeting place: Cupertino/Saratoga area. Contact Lansing lansingw@earthlink.net  or Kathy at Katherine.metz@comcast.net  to confirm date and meeting place. We will send email reminder/RSVP request about a week before the meeting.

Sat. Oct. 22. FAIR on ICE. See details above.

Announcements:


September, 2005

Sun. Sept. 4th. 2:pm. 1st Sunday play date for adoptive families of color. Berkeley. This is an informal group. Board Member Mollie will be attending the next one, and will welcome FAIR families who would like to participate. It will be held on Sunday, September 4th (Labor Day weekend). The location is Lake Anza at Tilden Park in Berkeley. Meet at 2:00 pm on the sand by the edge of the lake. There are lifeguards present. There is a small cost to enter the beach. For more information, please email Mollie McLeod  

Mon. Sept. 12. 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Pre-adopt parents will also find this group helpful. Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space! 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP lansingw@earthlink.net 

Fri. Sept. 16. 5:15-7:15pm. FAIR Play Date. Paul Moore Park, S. San Jose. All kinds of adoptive families are invited to join monthly play dates. Multicultural families will especially appreciate the racial and ethnic diversity of the children, teenagers, and adults who come to enjoy this park. Bring: snack and drinks, or a picnic dinner. Paul Moore Park is located at the intersection of Hillsdale Avenue and Cherry Avenue in a residential neighborhood in south San José. For more information click here. To RSVP, contact Mollie 

Tues. Sept. 27 or Wed. Sept. 28. 7-9pm. Kick-off of “Moving On” – A group for parents of young adults ages 17 and up. Share the ups and downs of parenting kids who may have extra challenging behaviors or tasks at this stage of transition into the world beyond high school. For all adoptive parents of older teens and young adults. Facilitated by experienced adoptive parents. Let’s get together to network, brainstorm, listen and share with others who know what we are talking about! Moms and Dads are welcome. Probable meeting place: Cupertino/Saratoga area starting twice a month in Sept or Oct. Contact Lansing lansingw@earthlink.net  or Kathy at Katherine.metz@comcast.net  to let us know of your interest in this group, to let us know which date is best for you, and to find out where we are meeting!

Thurs. Sept. 29. 6:30-8pm. Palo Alto. Understanding Our Stories Group. See information above.


Announcements:


August 2005

Please respond ASAP! More campers needed!

FAIR FAMILY FUN 

FAIR ANNUAL CAMPOUT

FRIDAY TO SUNDAY, AUGUST 19-21

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, some of which can be shared by two families. There is a safe swimming lake in the park with lifeguards and 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.
Try to arrive at the campsite in the afternoon on Friday and beat the traffic.
We are asking 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 and there will be some other low-key activities to help people become better acquainted.

To reserve your space:
1) Send a check for $20, made out to FAIR to the FAIR address on this page by Fri. August 5.
2) Include a note to let us know how many people will be camping, kids' ages, and when you plan to arrive. FAIR will assign campsites so let us know if you would like to share or be close to another particular family. FAIR 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. Two cars max per site. Spaces will be assigned on a first come, first served basis, so make your plans as soon as you can and contact Lansing with questions. lansingw@earthlink.net 

Mon. Aug. 8. 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Pre-adopt parents will also find this group helpful. Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space! 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP lansingw@earthlink.net 

Fri. Aug. 12. 5:15-7:15pm. FAIR Play Date. Paul Moore Park, S. San Jose. All kinds of adoptive families are invited to join monthly play dates. Multicultural families will especially appreciate the racial and ethnic diversity of the children, teenagers, and adults who come to enjoy this park. Bring: snack and drinks, or a picnic dinner. Paul Moore Park is located at the intersection of Hillsdale Avenue and Cherry Avenue in a residential neighborhood in south San José. For more information or to RSVP, contact Mollie  Details.


July, 2005

FAIR FAMILY FUN 

FAIR ANNUAL CAMPOUT

FRIDAY TO SUNDAY, AUGUST 19-21

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, some of which can be shared by two families. There is a safe swimming lake in the park with lifeguards and 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.
Try to arrive at the campsite in the afternoon on Friday and beat the traffic.
We are asking 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 and there will be some other low-key activities to help people become better acquainted.

To reserve your space:
1) Send a check for $20, made out to FAIR to the FAIR address on this flier by Fri. July 29.
2) Include a note to let us know how many people will be camping, kids' ages, and when you plan to arrive. FAIR will assign campsites so let us know if you would like to share or be close to another particular family. FAIR 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. Two cars max per site. Spaces will be assigned on a first come, first served basis, so make your plans as soon as you can and contact Lansing with questions. lansingw@earthlink.net 

Fri. July 8. 5:15-7:15pm. FAIR Play Date. Paul Moore Park, S. San Jose. All kinds of adoptive families are invited to join monthly play dates. Multicultural families will especially appreciate the racial and ethnic diversity of the children, teenagers, and adults who come to enjoy this park. Bring: snack and drinks, or a picnic dinner. Paul Moore Park is located at the intersection of Hillsdale Avenue and Cherry Avenue in a residential neighborhood in south San José. For more information see www.fairfamilies.org  or to RSVP, contact Mollie  The next date will be August 12th.

Sunday, July 10. 1:30pm. Bill Pickett Rodeo. Pleasanton/Hayward. Thanks to Board Member Mollie McLeod for organizing this event. Contact Mollie . This special day will provide an opportunity for black children adopted domestically or internationally to participate in an event with African American mentors as their cultural guides. Black adoptive parents are also invited to chaperone. Transracially adoptive parents will meet at a nearby restaurant and share strategies for increasing multicultural competence. Or, simply attend the rodeo with your children! 

Where: Meet outside the Fresh Choice restaurant at the Stoneridge Mall in Pleasanton at 1:30 pm. Chaperones and children will proceed to the Bill Pickett Rodeo. See News at www.fairfamilies.org for details and visit http://www.billpickettrodeo.com  
Cost: $15 per child, plus spending money for snacks, etc. if desired. 
This event will provide an opportunity for children to participate in a fun activity chaperoned by African American adults in a setting that honors the achievements of black cowboys and cowgirls. Your sons and daughters will have a chance to make friends with kids who share their experience of being transracially adopted. This rodeo is named after the first black rodeo athlete to be inducted into the Rodeo Hall of Fame. The event opens with the singing of the national anthem followed by "Lift Every Voice," also known as the black national anthem. Next, the audience is introduced to the accomplishments of courageous black cowboys and cowgirls from our past. During the rodeo, spectators enjoy events like bull doggin', bare back ridin', tie-down ropin', ladies steer undecoratin', ladies barrel racin', and bull ridin'. The rodeo will be hot and dusty. No food or drink is allowed into the rodeo, so send money for your children to buy a drink and treat.

Mon. July 11. 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Pre-adopt parents will also find this group helpful. Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space! 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP lansingw@earthlink.net 

Sun. July 24. 3-5pm. FAIR Play Day. CANCELLED! Especially for our youngest FAIR folks and their parents. Dress for outside play at the wonderful Parents' Nursery School campus in Palo Alto. Located at 2328 Louis Road. Near 101, Between Embarcadero Rd. and Oregon Expressway. Waiting parents are welcome! FAIR will provide juice, water, and cups. Kids under 7 will especially enjoy this event. Come and meet other parents with young kids or babies. RSVP Ellen at intibint@pacbell.net 


Announcements:

Conferences: 

July 6-10. The American Adoption Congress presents: Don’t Gamble with Truth in Adoption. Palace Station Hotel & Casino. Las Vegas , NV Contact www.americanadoptioncongress.org  

August 3-6. North American Council on Adoptable Children (NACAC) Annual Training Conference, Joining Together for Children. Westin Convention Center Hotel. Pittsburgh , PA. Visit www.nacac.org  If you plan to go, contact Nancycng@yahoo.com  

Click here to see tributes to Harven Ng. Click here to see a letter from Nancy Ng and family to the FAIR community.


June, 2005

FAIR Family Fun – Save the Date!

FAIR’s Annual Campout.  

We reserved a number of sites for 
Fri.-Sat.-Sun. Aug. 19-21
 
at Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore .  Watch for more information in the next calendar or on the web site.

Non-campers can also join us for a picnic and swimming in the lake on Saturday.  Lifeguards, shade, and friends!

Tues. June 7.  FAIR/AFTER support group.  The parents of kids 7-14 group meets the first Tuesday of every month from 11:30-1:30. We move from restaurant to restaurant in the South Bay with easy access to Highway 85. Also May 3. Contact Kathy at katherine.metz@comcast.net  

Mon. June 13. 7-9pm.  Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View . This group is for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Pre-adopt parents will also find this group helpful.  Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space!  465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215 .   RSVP lansingw@earthlink.net  

Sun. June 19, 3-5pm.  FAIR Play Day.  Note time. CONTACT ELLEN below for date!  Especially for our youngest FAIR folks and their parents. Bring a finger food to share and dress for outside play at the wonderful Parents’ Nursery School campus in Palo Alto .  Located at 2328 Louis Road . Near 101, Between Embarcadero Rd. and Oregon Expressway.  Waiting parents are welcome! FAIR will provide juice, water, and cups. Kids under 7 will especially enjoy this event.  Come and meet other parents with young kids or babies.  RSVP Ellen at intibint@pacbell.net  Rain or shine. Next date July 24th.


May, 2005

You are Invited! 
Saturday, April 30, 4-6pm.

FAIR on ICE PARTY
NEW LOCATION

Where: Belmont Iceland, 815 Old County Rd. Belmont 650-592-0533

What: Ice skating for all. Lots of fun! Meet old friends and new. The ice is reserved just for FAIR families and friends. Waiting families are welcome. Non-skaters may watch and chat. Wheelchairs and strollers are fine on the ice. This is an indoor rink. You may bring snacks or a light supper. No barbeques. FAIR will provide hot chocolate and cups. Pizza can be ordered from Vik’s Restaurant, 650-574-0107, to be delivered. No alcohol, please.

Cost: $5.00 per skater. This includes skate rental. Cash or check made out to FAIR. We’ll collect just inside the door.

Directions: From Highway 101, take the Ralston Ave Exit West one mile towards Belmont. Turn right at Old County Road (at the Belmont Train Station). Go 0.2 miles to 815 Old County Road.

Let’s have a great turnout! Thanks to Michelle Poling for finding an alternate date and location for this popular FAIR event.

No RSVP necessary: Just come, and bring a friend or two!

Friday, April 29, 7-9 pm. FAIR Adoption Discussion and Support Group. San Francisco. We'll make time to discuss our kids' Playshop experiences. Other topic: TBD. For location, or to suggest a topic, RSVP amyk@stanfordalumni.org 

Tues. May 3. FAIR/AFTER support group. The parents of kids 7-14 group meets the first Tuesday of every month from 11:30-1:30. We move from restaurant to restaurant in the South Bay with easy access to Highway 85. Also May 3. Contact Kathy at katherine.metz@comcast.net 

Mon. May 9. 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Pre-adopt parents will also find this group helpful. Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space! 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP lansingw@earthlink.net 

*Sunday, May 15. 1:30-4:00pm. Get Published Day.* Please double check the date with Nancy Ng. There is a possibility we may have to move this event later in the month. For FAIR kids ages 6-17. Art, poetry, writing workshop. Join other adopted kids in fun activities. Publication through FAIR possible but not required. Los Altos Youth Center, 1 North San Antonio Road.

Directions to the Los Altos Youth Center, (Next to the orchard)

From 280, take El Monte exit East to Foothill Expswy. Take Foothill Expswy North to San Antonio Rd. Take San Antonio Rd East to the entrance of the Los Altos Youth Center/Police Department. The entrance is on the South side of the street (to your right) a couple of blocks East of Foothill Expressway.

From 101, take San Antonio Road exit and follow West to the entrance of the Los Altos Youth Center/Police Dept/Civic Center on your left.

Contact Nancy at Nancycng@yahoo.com  or 650-494-3057 to RSVP by May 12 to register and let her know the age of your child(ren). Parents will remain nearby during the workshop, perhaps sharing coffee downtown. FAIR Board Members and other adults and teens will work with the children. Kids will be with others of similar ages. Kids must be preregistered.

Thurs. May 19. 6:30-8:30. Belmont Adoption Education Group. Presented by FAIR for San Mateo County. All FAIR families are welcome. Presentation and discussion. Adult adoptee Min Ji Ng will share findings of her interviews with fost-adopt families on what helped or hindered the family after placement. Check FAIR’s calendar at www.fairfamilies.org closer to the event. Dinner and child care with RSVP to Eva Lanphear. 650-595-7631. 400 Harbor Blvd. Bldg. B. Notre Dame Room. Program starts at 7.

Friday, May 20, 7-9 pm. FAIR Adoption Discussion and Support Group. San Francisco. Parents in all kinds of adoptive families are welcome. For location and to RSVP, email amyk@stanfordalumni.org 

Sun. May 22. 2-4:00pm. FAIR Play Day. Especially for our youngest FAIR folks and their parents. Bring a finger food to share and dress for outside play at the wonderful Parents’ Nursery School campus in Palo Alto. Located at 2328 Louis Road. Near 101, Between Embarcadero Rd. and Oregon Expressway. Waiting parents are welcome! FAIR will provide juice, water, and cups. Kids under 7 will especially enjoy this event. Come and meet other parents with young kids or babies. RSVP Ellen at intibint@pacbell.net  Rain or shine.


April, 2005

FAIR on ICE PARTY CHANGED

FAIR on ICE PARTY CHANGED

We are so sorry that, due to a scheduling mistake, we do NOT have the ice reserved at the Winter Lodge for

Saturday, March 26, 5:30-7:30pm as planned.

BUT, we now have a private ice party reserved at Belmont Iceland on

Saturday, April 30, 4-6:30pm.

Watch for more details soon, in a flier and here!

Tues. April 5. FAIR/AFTER support group. The parents of kids 7-14 group meets the first Tuesday of every month from 11:30-1:30. We move from restaurant to restaurant in the South Bay with easy access to Highway 85. Also May 3. Contact Kathy at katherine.metz@comcast.net 

Mon. April 11. 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Pre-adopt parents will also find this group helpful. Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space! 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP lansingw@earthlink.net 

Thurs. April 21. 6:30-8:30. Belmont Adoption Education Group. Presented by FAIR for San Mateo County. All FAIR families are welcome. Presentation and discussion. Topic TBA. Check FAIR’s calendar at www.fairfamilies.org closer to the event. Please contact Eva for more information.

Dinner and child care with RSVP to Eva Lanphear. 650-595-7631. 400 Harbor Blvd. Bldg. B. Notre Dame Room. Program starts at 7.

Sun. April 24. 2-4:00pm. FAIR Play Day. Especially for our youngest FAIR folks and their parents. Bring a finger food to share and dress for outside play at the wonderful Parents’ Nursery School campus in Palo Alto. Located at 2328 Louis Road. Near 101, Between Embarcadero Rd. and Oregon Expressway. Waiting parents are welcome! FAIR will provide juice, water, and cups. Kids under 7 will especially enjoy this event. Come and meet other parents with young kids or babies. RSVP Wilmachu@aol.com  Rain or shine.

Friday, April 29 (NEW DATE!), 7-9 pm. FAIR Adoption Discussion and Support Group. San Francisco. We'll make time to discuss our kids' Playshop experiences. Other topic: TBD. For location, or to suggest a topic, RSVP amyk@stanfordalumni.org 

Sat. April 30, 4:15-6:30pm. FAIR on ICE. Belmont Iceland. Just for FAIR families and friends. Details to follow.

SAVE the DATE: Sunday, May 15. !:30-4:00pm. Get Published Day. For kids ages 6-17. Art, poetry, writing workshop. Join other adopted kids in fun activities. Publication through FAIR possible but not required. Los Altos Youth Center. More information to come. Contact Nancy Nancycng@yahoo.com  for more info.


March 2005

Fair On ICE (formerly Mar 26) 
CANCELLED 
due to scheduling error - sorry about that!

 

FAIR FAMILY FUN – YOU ARE INVITED!

Bring extended family members, other adoptive families, and friends.

RAIN or SHINE

CANCELLED 
Saturday, March 26, 5:30-7:30pm
CANCELLED
 

What: The last 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!

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. Meet old and new friends!

Cost: $5.00 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. lansingw@earthlink.net 

 

Tues. Mar. 1. FAIR/AFTER support group. The parents of kids 7-14 group meets the first Tuesday of every month from 11:30-1:30. We move from restaurant to restaurant in the South Bay with easy access to Highway 85. Also March 1, April 5, and May 3. Contact Kathy at katherine.metz@comcast.net

Mon. Mar. 14. 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Pre-adopt parents will also find this group helpful. Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space! 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP wilmachu@aol.com 

Thurs. Mar. 17. 6:30-8:30. Belmont Adoption Education Group. Presented by FAIR for San Mateo County. All FAIR families are welcome. Adoptive Parents Louise and Pat McCarthy will return to present the program on parenting teens who have been touched by adoption. One or more of their own teens will also participate. Please contact Eva for more information.

Dinner and child care with RSVP to Eva Lanphear. 650-595-7631. 400 Harbor Blvd. Bldg. B. Notre Dame Room. Program starts at 7.

Fri. Mar. 18. 6:30-9:00pm. Los Altos. FAIR presents: Siblings – a look from every angle – adopted, birth, foster … Presenter, Jane Brown, MSW, adoptive parent and developer of Playshops for adopted children. For all adoptive parents and parents-to-be. Covington School, 205 Covington Rd. Los Altos. From 280 N. or S, take S. El Monte Rd. toward Los Altos. Take the first right after Foothill Espwy (Covington Rd.). Take the next left to stay on Covington. The school will be just ahead. Program at 7:00. COST: $10.00.

Sat. and Sun. Mar. 20, 21. FAIR Presents Playshops, led by Jane Brown. All sessions are full. Please contact amyk@standordalumni  for more information.

Sun. Mar. 20. 2-4:00pm. FAIR Play Day. Especially for our youngest FAIR folks and their parents. Bring a finger food to share and dress for outside play at the wonderful Parents’ Nursery School campus in Palo Alto. Located at 2328 Louis Road. Near 101, Between Embarcadero Rd. and Oregon Expressway. Waiting parents are welcome! FAIR will provide juice, water, and cups. Kids under 7 will especially enjoy this event. Come and meet other parents with young kids or babies. RSVP Wilmachu@aol.com . Next date. Sun. Mar. 20. Rain or shine.

Sat. Mar. 26. 5:30-7:30pm FAIR on ICE Party. Palo Alto. See reverse. Also FAIR’s annual Meeting and Elections. Interested in joining the FAIR Board? Contact Lansing lansingw@earthlink.net .


February, 2005

You are Invited! 
It’s the Year of the Rooster!

FAIR’s LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION

Sunday, February 20, 2005, 2-5pm

Los Altos Community Center, 1 North San Antonio Rd, Los Altos

Schedule: 2:00 – Crafts, games, story time. 3:30 – Good Food 4:00 - Drawing for prizes (just a few this year!) and then more play and visiting.

New Traditions: Our celebration will include food, crafts and fellowship but will be a little simpler than in the past. All FAIR families are most welcome. We will be especially honoring our families with a connection to cultures that celebrate the Lunar New Year. Please bring/wear traditional outfits from those countries if you have them.

We need your RSVP! Please send an email to Wilmachu@aol.com  stating the number of people attending and their ages. Volunteers are needed to help with crafts, to come early to help set up and decorate, and to stay for clean up. Teens and also parents with grown children make wonderful volunteers!

Donation for Party: $10 at the door for FAIR families with current dues. Others are encouraged to join FAIR! ($30. per year)

Directions to the Los Altos Youth Center, (Next to the orchard)

From 280, take El Monte exit East to Foothill Expswy. Take Foothill Expswy North to San Antonio Rd. Take San Antonio Rd East to the entrance of the Los Altos Youth Center/Police Department. The entrance is on the South side of the street (to your right) a couple of blocks East of Foothill Expressway.

From 101, take San Antonio Road exit and follow West to the entrance of the Los Altos Youth Center/Police Dept/Civic Center on your left.

Tues. Feb. 1 – FAIR/AFTER support group. The parents of kids 7-14 group meets the first Tuesday of every month from 11:30-1:30. We move from restaurant to restaurant in the South Bay with easy access to Highway 85. Also March 1, April 5, and May 3. Contact Kathy at katherine.metz@comcast.net  408-354-5406.

Sun. Feb. 6. 2-4:00pm. FAIR Play Day. Especially for our youngest FAIR folks and their parents. Bring a finger food to share and dress for outside play at the wonderful Parents’ Nursery School campus in Palo Alto. Located at 2328 Louis Road. Near 101, Between Embarcadero Rd. and Oregon Expressway. Waiting parents are welcome! FAIR will provide juice, water, and cups. Kids under 7 will especially enjoy this event. Come and meet other parents with young kids or babies. RSVP Wilmachu@aol.com  Next date. Sun. Mar. 20. Rain or shine.

Mon. Feb. 14. 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Pre-adopt parents will also find this group helpful. Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space! 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP lansingw@earthlink.net 

Thurs. Feb. 17. 6:30-8:30. Belmont Adoption Education Group. Presented by FAIR for San Mateo County. All FAIR families are welcome. Adoptive Parent Kathy Metz will present the program, understanding your child’s educational needs. Please contact Eva for more information.

Dinner and child care with RSVP to Eva Lanphear. 650-595-7631. 400 Harbor Blvd. Bldg. B. Notre Dame Room. Program starts at 7.

Friday, Feb. 25, 7-9 pm. FAIR Adoption Discussion and Support Group. San Francisco. Topic of the month: "Helping Children Understand Adoption at Different Ages." We'll do an overview of the stages of childhood and discuss how they relate to the child's understanding and feelings about adoption. We'll see how children's perceptions change over time, and we'll try to identify communication challenges we parents face as our children grow and change. We may carry over some of the material to the April meeting, after Playshops in March. For location, RSVP amyk@stanfordalumni.org , 415-751-2724.

More Announcements for FAIR Members:

Your patience is appreciated for our delay in publishing News from FAIR. As you know, Nancy and Harven worked together to edit and format the magazine. It will be published as soon as possible.

 

Coming in March!
Jane Brown's Parent Workshop and Adoption Playshops for Children
March 18-20, various locations
Playshops are for all adopted children! †We hope this year will bring a more diverse group of kids. Enrollment is first come, first served, so don't wait too long, as Playshops fill up fast. †Scholarships are available for FAIR members. Please see the enclosed fliers and registration forms for details. †For more information, updates, and a comprehensive FAQ, please send a blank email message to
FAIR-Playshops2005-subscribe@yahoogroups.com and set your spam filter to allow messages from this group. †This is for announcements only (not a discussion list). †Questions? Contact Amy, amyk@stanfordalumni.org, .


January, 2005

FAIR FAMILY FUN – YOU ARE INVITED

SAN JOSE INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW: 
SUNDAY, JANUARY 9th

Location: San Jose Convention Center 150 West San Carlos Street, San Jose

If cars fascinate your children, then this is the event for your family. Bring a picnic lunch and play at a nearby park, then enjoy the auto show. Adoptive families and waiting families welcome. Kids ages 12 and under are free on Sunday 1/9/05 with the paid admission of an adult. Ticket prices for the San Jose International Auto Show are: adults (13 & older) $9.00 and students (with valid ID) $7.00. Cash only at the gate.

When: Meet at 1:00 p.m. at the Almaden Boulevard entrance to the Convention Center – near the outdoor seating for Starbucks.

Your family is welcome to bring a picnic lunch and join the McLeod family at the Discovery Meadows Park at 12:00 p.m. (This is the park adjacent to the Children’s Discovery Museum – the purple building and located across the street from the Convention Center.) Children will have an opportunity to play outdoors prior to touring the auto show. If it rains, then the picnic will be cancelled and we will just have fun at the auto show beginning at 1:00 p.m.

Parking & Public Transit: Parking at the Convention Center costs $10.00 and there is another lot on Almaden Boulevard with parking for $5.00. If you take the light rail, then exit at the Convention Center station and walk south on San Carlos toward the Hilton and make a left turn.

Auto Show: For more information about the San Jose International Auto Show visit http://www.motortrendautoshows.com/sanjose/ 

YOUR RSVP HELPS US PLAN! Email Mollie  to let us know how many people are coming, their ages, and if you plan to picnic in the park prior to touring the auto show.

 

You are Invited! It’s the Year of the Rooster!

FAIR’s LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION

Sunday, February 20, 2005, 2-5pm

New Traditions – Details in Special Flier to be mailed separately

Los Altos Community Center, 1 North San Antonio Rd, Los Altos

Sat. Jan. 8. 2-4:00pm. FAIR Play Day. Especially for our youngest FAIR folks and their parents. Bring a finger food to share and dress for outside play at the wonderful Parents’ Nursery School campus in Palo Alto. Located at 2328 Louis Road. Near 101, Between Embarcadero Rd. and Oregon Expressway. Waiting parents are welcome! FAIR will provide juice, water, and cups. Kids under 7 will especially enjoy this event. Come and meet other parents with young kids or babies. RSVP Wilmachu@aol.com  Next date. Sun. Feb. 4. Rain or shine.

Mon. Jan. 10. 7-9pm. Parents of Young Children Support and Networking Group. Mountain View. This group is for adoptive parents of infants and young children. Pre-adopt parents will also find this group helpful. Thanks to BAAS for the meeting space! 465 Fairchild Dr. Ste 215. RSVP lansingw@earthlink.net 

Thurs. Jan. 20. 6:30-8:30. Belmont Adoption Education Group. Presented by FAIR for San Mateo County. All FAIR families are welcome. Adoptive Parent Mollie McCleod will present the program on her use of Love and Logic/Positive Parenting with help from her young sons. Please contact Eva for more information.

Dinner and child care with RSVP to Eva Lanphear. 650-595-7631. 400 Harbor Blvd. Bldg. B. Notre Dame Room. Program starts at 7.

Fri. Jan. 21, 7-9 pm. FAIR Adoption Discussion and Support Group. San Francisco. Topic of the month: †Preparing our kids to answer questions about adoption. Whatever their age, our children find themselves in situations, from the supermarket to the playground to the high school classroom, where questions will be asked about their families. †How do we answer these questions in their presence? †How do the questions and situations change for them as they grow up? Does it ever end? †For location, RSVP amyk@stanfordalumni.org 


Link to Calendar 2004

Link to Calendar 2003

Link to Calendar 2002

Link to Calendar 2001

Link to Calendar 2000