!! NOTECARDS ON SALE NOW www.kindtree.org !!
______________________________
MIKE GUIDO IN PORTLAND
Mike performed for KindTree - Autism Rocks last year - it was great. See his show if you can...
Autism Society of Oregon is proud to host a night of support, love and entertainment!
The Portland premiere of DO IT DIFFERENTLY and comedy performance by nationally renowned comedian Mike Guido, at the Winningstad Theater in the Portland Center for Performing Arts!
Four fathers with one thing in common - they are all raising a child with autism. In their own words, they share their struggles and successes...fears and hopes...while projecting a quiet strength. Let them inspire you to do it differently!
Friday, November 16th, 2012
6:00 pm Seating for the show begins
6:30-7:30 Do It Differently documentary
7:30-8:00 Panel of the Dads from the film
8:00-8:30 Intermission
8:30-9:45 Mike Guido "A Real Man - Dad. Daughter. Autism.”
TICKETS AVAILABLE AT:
http://www.pcpa.com/events/do-it-differently
A “Real Man - Dad. Daughter. Autism." is a theatrical stage show written and performed by Mike Guido, who has appeared on Showtime, A&E, MTV, & VH1 and who is also a father of a daughter with autism.Through humor and a very heartfelt experiences, “A Real Man” takes the audience on one man’s journey with his daughter and her autism as he is transformed from being a “pretty good guy” into a much better man.
TICKETS AVAILABLE AT:
http://www.pcpa.com/events/do-it-differently
____________________________
SAD NEWS
Patricia Wigney's (founder of Bridgeway House) husband dies in accident. In the Register Guard today:
Richard Edward Wigney, 1952 - 2012
Richard Edward Wigney, born December 7, 1952, of Eugene, Oregon, beloved husband and papa, passed away from injuries sustained in a tragic accident at age 59, surrounded by the ones he laughed with, lived for, and loved on November 2, 2012.
Richard worked for Rainbow Valley Design and Construction. He was a highly skilled craftsman who had many longtime clients, many of which became his close friends.
Richard's passions included gardening, beekeeping, singing and choral music, and dancing his way through the world with his partner in love and life, Patricia. He loved to cook and for years brought his fun-loving attitude and culinary creations to the many wonderful friends who convened at Ti Ti Tabor, a Hungarian dance camp, each summer in Washington. The cause closest to his heart was advocating for his youngest daughter, Zsofika. He was an ardent supporter to those affected by autism and gave tirelessly of his time to Bridgeway House.
Richard is survived by his wife, Patricia; two sons Asa Wigney and John Strickland; four daughters Zsofika Wigney, Zoe Wigney, Caitlin Strickland and Erin Strickland; his grandson, Kiryu; his sister Pamela Fillion; his brother Benton Wigney; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.
The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the staff of RiverBend Hospital. Their dedication and effort to provide loving care at the end of Richard's life were a heartwarming blessing to the entire family.
A Celebration of Life for Richard Wigney has been scheduled for Monday November 19th at The Unitarian Universalist Church of Eugene at 13th and Chambers. The celebration, beginning at 4:30 p.m. and will include a potluck social time. Please come and celebrate Richard's life, bring a dish to share, and a story to share if you wish. Beverages, plates and utensils will be provided. Thank you for your continuing support of the Wigney family. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Bridgeway House at 3575 Donald Street, Eugene, OR, 97405.
Safe journey dear Papa. We love you.
________________________________
OTHER SAD NEWS
Our friend James Keating, Tom Keating's brother, passed away a few weeks ago. He was a person with autism, and a big part of Tom's life. You might even say James was Tom's carreer inspiration, as Tom develops adaptive software.
James was also important in others' lives, including KindTree Board member Molly Elliot. Below is a James Keating Remembrance from Molly, as well as an excerpt from a story Tom wrote about James.
Read all of Tomn's story here: http://www.woodbinehouse.com/excerpt.asp_Q_product_id_E_978-1-890627-91-1
__________________________________
In Remembrance of James Keating
There are people who enter our lives and remain forever. James is one of them. We first met in Eugene in the early 80”s. We were young, healthy, and involved in Adaptive Recreation. I was a program supervisor and he was a valued customer. For decades we talked daily by phone. We played, problem solved, laughed, and learned from each other. To say he was special is inadequate. To say he was unique is adequate. Describing him as James works. James was James. He brought us together; he was our teacher and a friend to some.
Many of us have delightful encounters and stories of James. Mine would fill a book. His questions were endless and repetitive but it kept him connected and safe. He taught me about boundaries and different ways to communicate. He taught me that there is always a preceding event to every action and to truly know another person one must be unafraid, observant and curious. I learned to listen to what he didn’t say as well as what he did say.
James delighted me, surprised me, and appreciated me as I did him. He would bring cookies and cakes to the Friday dances, arrive late to on-site programs and occasionally miss trips, outings, and excursions he had registered for. There was always a purpose in his behavior and an obsessive-compulsive element in his actions. I learned to accept him for who and what he was.
Telling our shared experiences required a high degree of respect to ensure that others could appreciate the story elements and James. I have many stories and this is one I want to retell. It is about a river rafting adventure. The first of many rafting trips James did with Adaptive Recreation. The scheduled August afternoon float trip was in doubt when weather reports indicated a chance of thundershowers, lightning, and possible rain. As the trip leader I did not want to disappoint anyone but I also wanted people to be safe and comfortable. A decision had to be made to proceed or cancel.
We decided to chance it.
No sooner had we launched our rafts then the beautiful weather turned cloudy. The wind began to blow and the sun disappeared. Twenty minutes into the trip the lightning and thunder started and it began to rain. There was no turning back. It rained, it poured, and everyone was becoming soaked. James was sitting in front of me. His hair was plastered to his head, rain was dripping off his jacket and down his face; his glasses were completely fogged. He turned and looked at me. “Molly, it is raining.” “Yes," I said, "it is raining. Please keep paddling James.” He turned back around, took two more paddle strokes and then looked back at me again. “Molly, it is raining. Make it stop." Looking at James and the other participants, the out-of-control situation became humorous. We were having a shared experience with limited options.
I replied, “ James, I am sorry but I can’t make it stop. I am sorry it is raining and we are getting wet, but we need to paddle. Please paddle so we find a place to stop." Our exchange was repeated numerous times as we proceeded down the river--James telling me it was raining and me telling him to keep paddling. We did find shelter, warm up, dry off, and eat a great meal.
What James didn’t say but what I thought he might be thinking is that "I want to be out of here. I am here in this boat, in the pouring rain, because of you. I am here because of Tom and Francis. I could be home and dry and in New York but I am not. I am here with you paddling down some river in Oregon in the rain and thunder. I can’t see, and I am wet and cold." But he didn’t say that. I never once heard James complain about anything or correct me or tell me I was inappropriate or make fun of me or treat me with disrespect. I hoped that I treated him the same.
James is missed and irreplaceable. The memories and the lessons learned will always remain with me and with those who knew him. Thank you James for being you and being part of our lives.
With loving thoughts and remembrances,
Molly Elliott
______________________________
"Who Sings the Shower Song?
Tom Keating
"James, you need to take a shower today."
"I can’t wanna take a shower."
"You have to take a shower."
"Why?"
"Because grown men start to smell bad if they don’t."
"I’ll ring people’s door bells."
"Knock it off and take the shower."
"Who sings 'The Shower Song'?"
"I don’t know who sings the freakin' shower song. Just get in the damn shower."
"Aah fucka."
And so it would go. It wasn't like James dislikes showering, really. He loves water and swimming, and really digs music. He actually seems to enjoy showers once he starts, and seems to like being clean afterward. I had to learn that it was really a dance about power and control. But it took me a long time to get that, and he knows the dance better than I do. I always feel like he’s a step ahead. "No flies on him," Mom likes to say.
James has told me any number of times, "You don't want to control me" and, "You can't want to tell me what to do" in his own unique linguistic style. Maybe, using his Jamesian logic and knowledge of music, he figured that if it was important, someone would have done a song about it. And Bobby Darin may have sung about taking a bath, but he didn't mention anything about showers, so James didn't need to bother taking one. Hard to know. At the beginning I'm not sure I gave him full credit for having logic, intelligence, and emotions and being a full psychological being. The things he did were all just "behaviors" that I needed to deal with."
________________________________
Let us all remember to be alive while we have the chance....
Autism Rocks eFLASH! November 6, 2012
Artist
Scholarships
Apply now. KindTree - Autism Rocks, with funding from the Lane Arts Council, offers cash to artists for materials or classes to help create their art. Go here for the application. December 1 Deadline!
Through Women of Worth, L'Oréal Paris is committed to recognizing women who embody the dedication and spirit of making a difference in their communities. L'Oréal Paris supports these inspiring women through a donation for their charity and by raising awareness for their causes. Each honoree will receive a $10,000 donation for her cherished charity. The National Honoree who's selected via public vote will receive an additional donation of $25,000.
You are invited to vote every day through November 21st.
Lorraine has promised to share her winnings with KindTree.
Let's help her do just that. She is, after all, awesome!!
The
OSLP
Arts
and
Culture
Program
breaks
down
barriers
to
participation
in
the
arts
and
builds
bridges
to
a
more
diverse
and
inclusive
community.
We
nurture
authentic
expression
and
improve
physical,
mental,
and
spiritual
well‐being
through
the
universal
language
of
art
in
a
safe
and
accessible
environment.
OPEN
ART
STUDIO
Our
fine
arts
studio
offers
a
space
for
aspiring
artists
to
work
collaboratively
and
independently.
Supplies,
space,
and
professional
guidance
are
available.
MUSIC
Music
class
is
an
open
jam
session
for
anyone
to
join<
in
and
experience
music
made
by
a
diverse
group.
Yoga
Our
yoga
class
is
designed
to
concentrate
on
breath,
relaxation,
stretching,
and
strengthening
for
all
abilities.
Choir
Our
Choir
offers
a
time
to
sing
new
and
old
songs
while
learning
about
music
and
having
fun!
Plus these activities as well: FOOD
FUN, ART EXPLORATION, GARDEN CLUB, SLP JAM BAND, and CIRQUE-‐ELATION DANCE IMPROVISATION.
This unique, life-changing event needs your support. Please donate today!
Holiday Shopping
Starts Here!
At the Holiday Market:
KindTree will be in the Holiday Hall area of the Market offering notecards for only $1.00 each, along with framed art, t-shirts, books and more. November 23-25. Details here. (volunteers needed)
On the web:
Notecard Sale - many new designs and old favorites at half price
T-shirts and aprons
NEW colors
Autism Rocks Logo items - mugs, clothing, toys
Original Art - framed fine art or matted reprints
Support Artists With Autism
Order today.
Study to look at how massage affects children with autism
Parents of young children who have been diagnosed with autism are invited to join a study that researches the benefits of parent-delivered massage.
The study is sponsored by the Teaching Research Institute at Western Oregon University. It continues and expands an earlier, smaller study that indicates a daily massage helps children become calmer, more comfortable, better behaved and better able to learn.
Parent touch is considered the oldest and most effective means of calming young children and helping them focus and regulate their behavior.
The 46 children who participated in the massage study in 2009 showed increases in social behavior and improvements in bowel and sleep problems, and parents reported many “firsts,” such as sleeping through the night, eating new foods and elimination of head-banging. The idea now is to see if that holds with larger groups.
Researchers will work with families from Portland to Eugene but are particularly interested in hearing from parents in the mid-valley, where response so far has been poor, said Dr. Louise Silva.
The study is free. Funding is being provided through the U.S. Maternal and Child Health Bureau. Families will participate in an initial training and receive 20 sessions of ongoing support and training from a therapist over the first five months.
Children must be under age 6, have a formal medical and/or educational diagnosis of autism, not be on psychoactive medication or pharmaceutical chelation therapy, have no additional chronic disability (such as cerebral palsy or uncontrolled seizures), and not be receiving more than five hours per week of intensive behavioral treatment for autism.
Parents must be willing to attend the parent training session and transport the child to treatment sessions and pre- and post-testing appointments. They also must be willing to give the 15-minute massage daily and not start any new interventions unless medically necessary.
Silva said the researchers are looking for children anywhere on the autism spectrum, including Aspergers syndrome. Parent training sessions will be held in either Albany or Corvallis, depending on where the families are coming from. Therapists from Albany and Corvallis will give treatments in the children’s homes.
The study is seeking at least 10 children in the Albany/Corvallis area. Fifty children will be accepted into the program per year for the next two years and will be divided randomly into a treatment group and a wait-list control group. The treatment group will begin treatment at the beginning of the year and the control group will begin treatment five months later.
Applications are open now, and are being filled on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information or to indicate an interest in participating, send an email to study@qsti.org or call 503-585-9239. More information is available at www.qsti.org.
KindTree - Autism Rocks eFLASH! News,
July 27, 2012
People with Autism Rock:
Dance Party!
D J Slam (otherwise known as Reddemon - or Sam Hayes) will be spinning tunes for your dancing pleasure at Reality Kitchen this Saturday, July 28, from 7 - 10pm.
Elmo Maxx (that's my rap star name...) will be there, too.
Will YOU?!
PLUS
the previous night, Reality Kitchen has their regular Karaoke night with Ryan Crain - otherwise known as Dean-o.
So come on by...
Hungry Bunny
Art by People with Autism
through August 25.
510 E Main St, Cottage Grove, Monday - Saturday, 7am - 3pm. Breakfast, lunch, coffee.
Vote for KindTree
Kendall Cares about our communities! Now through July 31st, vote for your favorite charity (KindTree!!). The six (6) charities with the most votes will each receive $5,000 from Kendall Auto Group! (Must be a Facebook member)
Adaptive Recreation welcomes you to our Summer Pool Party!
Come enjoy a fun night at the pool with family and friends! Adaptive Recreation has rented all of Amazon pool!
Bring your own food and have a nice picnic dinner! There will be grills available for your use.
There will be a water safety clinic at the beginning of the party. It will start at 5:40. All ages are welcome.
WHO: For people with disabilities, their families and friends.
WHEN: Sunday, July 29, 2012, 5:30PM-7:30PM
WHERE: Amazon Pool, 2600 Hilyard Street, Eugene
COST: $5 per person or $20 per family/group of 5+
To register, call the Hilyard Community Center:
541-682-5311
Activity Number: 99294
Autistic man survived desert ordeal on will power
ST. GEORGE, Utah (AP) — An autistic man who survived weeks in the Utah wilderness on snakes, frogs and roots described his ordeal as spiritual and said the desert was calling him.
"I've eaten things that would probably gross you out," William LaFever told KSL-TV after his release Thursday from a St. George hospital, nearly 40 pounds lighter than his normal weight of 165. He boarded a bus for his hometown of Colorado Springs, Colo.
Authorities say the 28-year-old man is lucky to be alive after setting out for an estimated 150-mile journey from Boulder, Utah, to Page, Ariz., without a backpack full of gear he says was stolen, and with few provisions.
Garfield County deputies said LaFever was probably only 24 hours from dying when a search helicopter found him July 12, cooling off in the Escalante River in his underwear. LaFever said he spent nights shivering from cold.
"It was the most honest meditation I have ever done," LaFever told KSL. "It wasn't even a bad experience."
Authorities estimated LaFever spent three weeks bushwhacking along the wild Escalante River, but the man says his ordeal lasted weeks longer. In a somewhat confusing account, he recalled setting out June 3.
Asked why he ventured out alone and unprepared into the harsh desert, LaFever said he was on a "mission" and "just had to do it. I can't explain it. I knew what I was doing.
"My mind didn't suffer. My body and my spirit didn't suffer," LaFever said. "I have never felt such weakness, but weakness was only for the body."
Family members said they were looking forward to reuniting with LaFever on Friday, but that he didn't want visitors at the hospital or a ride home. His parents have described him as strong-willed and independent. Authorities say people with autism don't recognize danger.
"He didn't realize how arduous his journey would be," his father, John LaFever of Colorado Springs, told The Associated Press a week ago. "We didn't know what he was heading into, either. Thank God he's alive."
How about a special item from our Cafe Press shop??
Order today.
This July 19, 2012 photo shows William LaFever in St. George, Utah.
Authorities say LaFever, 28, is lucky to be alive after setting out for an estimated 150-mile journey from Boulder, Utah, to Page, Ariz. without a backpack full of gear he says was stolen, and with few provisions. Garfield County deputies said LaFever was probably only 24 hours from dying when a search helicopter found him July 12, cooling off in the Escalante River in his underwear. LaFever said he spent nights shivering from cold. SALT LAKE TRIBUNE OUT; PROVO DAILY HERALD OUT; MAGS OUT Photo: The Deseret News,Sam Penrod / AP
Take a minute to look at the "Upcoming Events" section of our website. I do my best to include autism related events throughout Oregon, but this issue lost of the space is filled up just with KindTree events. We are getting pretty busy, it seems.
All the events we produce are staffed and planned by volunteers. The Autism Family Camp / Retreat, for example, works over 60 volunteers about 12 hours each every August, with additional time spent planning, preparing and supervising. This wonderful event connects individuals and families living with autism, building friendships and community like nothing else does. And the vast majority of the work is done by volunteers. Even some of the guests help out - with some of them graduating from paying guests to full load volunteers. Awesome. All of us depend on them, and they depend on us to make their efforts worthwhile and fun. Read some of their feedback. Then join us. It is truly a gift we can all share in.
Zamir Wassermiller shared his talent, and made a video about the Camp / Retreat for his Senior Project that you can see online. Wow. Thanks!
Our STiLE Program has received State Certification, and we continue to prepare for a Fall offering of a few groups working on social skills and more. Please stay tuned for this exciting opening. In the meantime, former Board member Maggie Pecora is warming up folks in the Cottage Grove area with gardening skills at her Full Spectrum Farm. There is so much to do!
Speaking of Board members, Johanna Magner, long time KindTree Board member, has resigned from the Board, but will continue to be a key volunteer. THANK YOU, Johanna!
I want to thank all the folks who worked on or donated to "the PROM" and the "Somewhere Over the Spectrum" variety show. Despite some setbacks, both were great successes, raising much needed funds and bringing the joy and talent of people on the spectrum into the mainstream community. Special mention goes to Melissa Farley who produced the variety show as part of a college project. She also did much with our Social Media, posting on Facebook and developing participation in our BLOG. Here you can learn more about our donors, participate in the online activities, and view slide shows from these events.
Autistic talent has another showcase option in Eugene. Every 2nd and 4th Friday, Reality Kitchen at 245 Van Buren puts on a karaoke night. Ryan Crain - aka Deano - is often the host. This event is not limited to folks on the spectrum but is very welcoming, and proprietor Jimmy Evangelista is a Retreat volunteer.
This past month I spent a lot of time visiting family in Ohio and Wisconsin. I am so fortunate to have people who care for me despite my failings, who will put up with me and, through their love, encourage me to do my best. While such traveling visits can be exhausting, I am also recharged, ready to go forth and do my thing with confidence.
That’s the feeling we create here at KindTree. We are family, we love you, you can do anything you set out to do.
Thanks for listening, Tim Mueller
Ron Rodrigez and Tim Mueller - Market of Choice and KindTree - together in eScrip. Why not sign up today?
Eugene's Market of Choice, KindTree, and others all benefit from the eScrip program. Are you part of it, too?
Summer Art Shows - Monday, July 2nd, from noon to noon on Aug. 10th
Art on Display in Lane County
During the month of July you can find Art by People with Autism on display in Cottage Grove and in Eugene!
Both shows feature framed originals and prints from our annual “Autism Artism” exhibitions. These artists on the spectrum devote many creative hours putting their visions on paper or canvas to share with the world. Please take a moment to visit these spaces and look into the hearts and minds of your neighbors living with autism.
The Hungry Bunny, July 9, 510 E Main St, Cottage GroveMonday - Saturday, 7am - 3pm. Breakfast, lunch, coffee.
Lane County Building lobby, July 2, 125 E 8th Ave, Eugene. Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm
Developed by KindTree volunteer Mischele Rue, this fundraiser invites youth 19 and under to bring their band - or their individual talent - to the Festival Stage in Junction City on July 14th. 13 slots are available, with an opening for "Medium Troy" in Eugene and recording time as parts of the grand prize!
This event begins at 10AM with youth bands performing until about 4pm. Drummers' contest begins then, followed by announcing the winners.
This fun day, which includes a great silent auction, concludes at 5pm with performances by local bands Actual Lies, and Glass Engine. What a grreat event - all to benefit KindTree - Autism Rocks. So. kids, get your amps ready, string up your new strings and come on out and ROCK!!
Categories
-Singer (Must play instrument or have someone accompany them. No backing tracks/recordings)
- First place performs as the opening band for Medium Troy downtown Eugene Summer in the City event July 18 also get a $200.00 gift certificate to Guitar Center,you will get your song recorded by Telos Recording Studio and played on 97.9, and a video made by RoadRunner studios of your band playing at the studio and they will put it on youtube
- Prize from Guitar Center for second place.
-$100.00 gift certificate from Guitar Center for the best Drummer.
This is a great opportinuty to showcase your talent and support your community.
The retreat is designed around the needs of those living with autism. Parents and caregivers can bring their autistic loved ones and relax with them over the weekend, knowing that they are in a safe and nurturing environment.
Space is filling up fast. Register today!
The retreat is a time for rejuvenation and solidarity. Autists are accepted and enjoyed for themselves, not forced into a procrustean neuro-normal mold.
This is some of the greatest autistic fun there is.
Volunteers and lifeguards still needed! Call 541 521 7291 today!!
Against the Fence
This local film was juried into the 2012 Sprout Film Festival
Lane County Latino Gathering
The gathering was designed to begin a dialog leading to the establishment of a Spanish speaking advocacy/support group here in Lane County.
Way back in 1997, I was a mess. My wife had moved back to Colorado and was getting ready to divorce me, I had no money, and I could no longer afford my small rented house. I was working overtime, but just couldn’t keep up. So in desperation, I rented out a room in my house to help pay the bills.
Well, it turned out that Michelle Jones was that renter, and through her I became involved with KindTree from the beginning. Now KindTree is a major part of my life, having brought me in contact with my significant other of twelve years (my awesome wife Nel), led me to reach out to the community in so many ways, introduced me to many wonderful people, and brought so much love and light into my life. But if you had told me that then, I would not have believed you.
Many of us have known that feeling - maybe even have it now. But life often brings rewards after challenges, and light after dark.
Watch it unfold in the Full Access movie "Against the Fence" starring Riley and Dyan Campbell. See it while looking at some of the beautiful pieces framed and displayed this year for "Autism Artism 2012", art from all over the USA and England, Canada, Sweden, Austria, Israel and even California. You will see silliness conquering the pain, color and whimsy livening up the day, as well as some of those darker visions.
At the variety show, "Somewhere Over the Spectrum", you will see hidden talents, hidden joy, hidden strengths, and maybe find them inspiring to you.
And at our First Ever adult PROM (for goofy grownups), you will - I hope - see yourself letting go of your fear and coming out in your finest, your silliest, your craziest outfit. Celebrate our differences, our individual-ness, and rejoice in the thrill of being alive and dancing your stockings off. I say ye-es!
We send out a special Thank You to the City of Eugene for giving us the opportunity to raise some funds by running a garage sale of all the items left in the Trude Kaufman Senior Center. We did just that on Saturdsay the 17th, raising over $2000 for KindTree - Autism Rocks, helping the City get the property ready for leasing, helping more than a dozen local non-profits get needed equipment for cheap, and doing the same for the overall community. Way to go volunteers!
KindTree welcomes new board members Don Damon, Eileen Brixey, Tracy Kribs and Molly Elliot, and bids fair well to Board member Maggie Pecora, who will continue to volunteer and develop the Cottage Grove community. Thank you all.
KindTree - Autism Rocks is branching out, looking for ways to better serve the undeserved, develop more stable funding sources, and have a lot of fun in the process. And we haven’t forgotten our Main Event. Retreat registration is OPEN.
Autism Artism 2012 - Saturday, March 31st, from noon to noon on Apr. 30th
"Autism Artism 2012" juried exhibition
of art by people with autism, from Lane County and the World.
Gala Opening Saturday, March 31. 5-7 PM...Meet the Artists
Dobro by John Keskinen, snacks, great wine, all your friends, and awesome art.
Special Guests include Mayor Kitty Piercy and Commissioner Rob Handy.
At Terrirorial Vineyards, 907 West 3rd Avenue Eugene, OR 97402
This year we will feature over 25 artists with nearly 40 images, a poetry book and two original videos. A gallery of images included in the show will be here soon, along with the videos and poetry samples. Come back soon to view them.
This is your chance to take a deeper look into the world these artists with autism see. Enjoy their vision in the friendly atmosphere at Territorial Vineyards while music plays ad the wine pours. Our community. Together, celebrating.
the PROM!! - Friday, May 4th, from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.
PROM!! PROM!! PROM!!
Only this time, you will WOW your pals with your crazy outfit, your sexy tresses, your manly tuxilcious, your "let's party' finest!
Come on out with your friends and enjoy great local snacks, the great bar at the Vet's Club, fun things to do, and great dancing to one of Eugene's most fun dance band, with a hot young DJ as well. We'll have great deals at our Silent Auction and Raffle.
Start your party weekend off right with "the PROM!!"
This event, produced by Melissa Farley, an intern working with KindTree - Autism Rocks, is a celebration of autistic talents to be presented to the Eugene community. We know how amazing so many of you are and we want the world to know it, too.
There will be one organizing meeting, so you can tell us what your talent is and we can get things organized. Followed by a dress rehearsal before the show, and then the show. Each performer will be given a short time frame (about 5 minutes) to have the stage. Right now we are starting our performer recruitment process. We're looking for a wide variety of performance styles and ages. Music, spoken word, magic, skits, dance, unique and odd talents, whatever you are special at.
"We spend too much and have no future, but we have fun."
eFLASH! April 2012
The first ever KindTree - Autism Rocks PROM is coming!
The Vet's Club Ballroom - a fancy venue for our fancy duds - is the location for a great dance party!
Come join everyone else in Eugene at this event, hosted by our reigning SLUG Queen, featuring one of the best bands in the area and a hot young DJ, with fun events all night long.
Drink and dance and party down in the "Cinco de Mardi Gras" theme, all the while supporting our great cause.
Tickets are cheaper purchased in advance, go here to do so.
See you there?
Follow-up Meeting
~ PADRES EN ACCIÓN / PARENTS IN ACTION ~
Meeting for Latino Families to Celebrate their children with disABILITIES
“BUILDING A COMMUNITY WITH POWER AND SUPPORT”
First meeting of leaders and Latino families. The meeting will be conducted in Spanish and there is NO CHARGE
Where:The Arc Lane County 4181 E. Street Springfield, OR. 97478 Time: From 6:00 to 8:00p.m. When: Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Child care and light refreshments provided.
Moderator: Susana Ramírez
PADRES EN ACCIÓN / PARENTS IN ACTION
Invites you to a planning meeting after the successful gathering in March. We had about 70 parents attending and we heard their wishes loud and clear to establish a Parents in Action advocacy group to support one another and learn about their children's rights and self-determination. There will be parents from Parents in Action (Cornelius and Portland) attending to help in developing an agenda for the new members.
Limited space. Please call to register yourself and your children. Patty Alvarado (Lane Co. DD Services) 541.682.6589.
(Families from EC CARES please call Guadalupe Moreno at: 541.346.0742).
Supporting agencies include Lane Country Mental Health Advisory Committee, Lane County Developmental Disabilities Services, the Arc, Parents in Action, KindTree - Autism Rocks, Mentor Oregon, LTD, EC Cares, the Autism Society of Oregon.
Participating agencies include 4J, Springfield Schools, Direction Service, Bridgeway House, Centro Latino Americano, Full Access, Downs Syndrome Network.
Why do paint sets have so many browns and grays and so few colors that when mixed add up to a third brilliant color? It’s all too frustratingly easy to brown up a color. I crave the brilliant, saturated colors that don’t dim out into flat pastels when they dry, and that mix into a third pure and brilliant saturated color that glows from without and within.
This event, produced with Melissa Farley, an intern working with KindTree - Autism Rocks, is a celebration of autistic talents to be presented to the Eugene community. We know how amazing so many of you are and we want the world to know it, too.
Please contact us if you - or someone you know - have a talent, big or small, that you would like to share. We will haved a dress rehearsal May 20th, and then the show June 2nd, 4-6 pm, at Cozmic. Each performer will be given a short time frame (about 5 minutes) to have the stage. Right now we have a great line up, with room for one or two more.
Featuring:
David Helfand's Magic Orchestra
The Raventones /Kickin ass
Roberta Abady and friends / Jazz Dance
Ryan Crain / Dan Martin impersonation
Beth Davis / Baritone Solo
Josh Fraim / Singing Josh Groban
Brad Haskell / Video Game/TV music
George Wilson / flute and drums with his brother, David
Mary-Minn & Alisa McLaughlin / Comedy Skit
Ben Wefler / Classical Piano
Riley Campbell / Folk Song
of art by people with autism, from Lane County and the World.
Last Friday Art Walk April 27. 5-7 PM...Meet the Artists
This year we will feature over 25 artists with nearly 40 images, a poetry book and two original videos. A gallery of images included in the show will be online soon, along with the videos and poetry samples. A few selections are below.
This is your chance to take a deeper look into the world these artists with autism see. Enjoy their vision in the friendly atmosphere at Territorial Vineyards while music plays ad the wine pours. Our community. Together, celebrating.
Congress acknowledged that society's accumulated myths and fears about disability and disease are as handicapping as are the physical limitations that flow from actual impairment.
KindTree - Autism Rocks
visit www.kindtree.org daily for news and events benefiting the Autism Community.
This Saturday, March 10, KindTree - Autism Rocks, along with the Autism Society of Oregon, Lane County Chapter, and many more are sponsoring a gathering / celebration of our families who speak Spanish. The goal is to begin a Parent Action group to move into the future.
Meet at the Arc from 12:15 - 4pm, this event includes food, childcare, entertainmant and a panel of parents. Free bus passes are available, registration is recommended. Read more here...
Supporting agencies include Lane Country Mental Health Advisory Committee, Lane County Developmental Disabilities Services, the Arc, Parents in Action, KindTree - Autism Rocks, Mentor Oregon, LTD, EC Cares, the Autism Society of Oregon.
Participating agencies include 4J, Springfield Schools, Direction Service, Bridgeway House, Centro Latino Americano, Full Access, Downs Syndrome Network.
~ PADRES EN ACCIÓN / PARENTS IN ACTION ~
Reunión de Padres Latinos para Celebrar a sus hijos con disCAPACIDADES
“CONSTRUYENDO UNA COMUNIDAD CON PODER Y APOYO”
Primera reunión de líderes y familias latinas. La reunión se llevará a cabo en español y es GRATUITA
Dónde: El Arc Condado Lane (The Arc Lane County)
4181 E. Street Springfield, OR. 97478
CUPO LIMITADO
Hora: De 12:15 a 4:00 de la tarde (se empezará puntualmente)
Cuándo: Sábado 10 de marzo de 2012
Habrá cuidado de niños con actividades y entretenimiento
~ Música en vivo por el Mariachi del Sol
~ Comida mexicana del restaurant El Rey durante el convivio
~ Pases disponibles de transporte (LTD) al Arc ~ Solicite su pase de camión
Sale Hours:
Friday 3/16, 8 - 10 AM for Agencies Only
(Lots of stackable chairs, desks...)
Friday 3/16, 10 am - 5 pm
Saturday 3/17, 10am - 5pm
Drop off your donations to our sale:
Tuesday March 13, 4-6pm
In a few days we will be preparing for a big garage sale on March 16 and 17. A BIG LIST of items will be sold off.
The City of Eugene has offered us the opportunity to raise money by selling off all the stuff left over in the Kaufmann Senior Center at 10th and Jefferson. There is a lot of stuff. We need help sorting, setting up display, pricing and staffing the actual sale hours, as well as returning on the Monday after and removing all that is left unsold.
We NEED YOU to help make this fundraising opportunity work for us. Please look at your calendar and see if you have a few hours to help out.
Below is the schedule of times we need volunteers. Please choose a time slot and respond.
Thanks so much. We can't do this without your help.
of art by people with autism, from Lane County and the World.
Gala Opening Saturday, March 31. 5-7 PM...Meet the Artists
Dobro by John Keskinen, snacks, great wine, all your friends, and awesome art.
Special Guests include Mayor Kitty Piercy and Commissioner Rob Handy.
This year we will feature over 25 artists with nearly 40 images, a poetry book and two original videos. A gallery of images included in the show will be online soon, along with the videos and poetry samples. A few selections are below.
This is your chance to take a deeper look into the world these artists with autism see. Enjoy their vision in the friendly atmosphere at Territorial Vineyards while music plays ad the wine pours. Our community. Together, celebrating.
This event, produced with Melissa Farley, an intern working with KindTree - Autism Rocks, is a celebration of autistic talents to be presented to the Eugene community. We know how amazing so many of you are and we want the world to know it, too.
Please contact us if you - or someone you know - have a talent, big or small, that you would like to share. We will haved a dress rehearsal a few days before the show, and then the show. Each performer will be given a short time frame (about 5 minutes) to have the stage. Right now we are in our performer recruitment process. We're looking for a wide variety of performance styles and ages. Music, spoken word, magic, skits, dance, unique and odd talents, whatever you are special at.
St. Augustine: “Let us, on both sides, lay aside all arrogance. Let us not, on either side, claim that we have already discovered the truth.”
KindTree - Autism Rocks
visit www.kindtree.org daily for news and events benefiting the Autism Community.
Reaching Out - Reaching In
Autism Community News, Vol 14 #3, September
2011
In
this Issue:
"Hearts Filled with Love"
And so another KindTree - Autism Rocks Family Camp / Retreat is behind us. This year we started a little early and hosted 13 guests on Thursday. Many of then ended up helping out, while the rest just relaxed and watched everyone set up their tents and get settled. And after the weekend was over, this is what I read on our feedback forms:
"We love this place and the volunteers are awesome! X-tra thanks to the bathroom crew who made sure there was always TP!"
"Very fun. The kids really loved all the art activities."
"Autism Camp is the highlight of my summer. I love everything and everybody at camp. Thanks so much for being You!"
"I love it here - everyone is so happy."
"Great time, great people, we’re leaving with hearts filled with love."
"I loved the arts & crafts and accordion and guitar and T R Kelley and loved helping in the kitchen. I loved the friendly atmosphere!"
Our feedback forms also revealed the most popular aspect of the Retreat: the sense of community, the people, the love in the air. We are especially proud of that kind of feedback. Creating a safe place to be yourself, to make friends, to be part of it, is our most important goal. Our volunteers work through the year to keep improving our event, listening to your feedback (gonna be a dance party next year…), fine tuning our established activities, all with your safety and community in mind. Read more here...
"Time is a-wasting. My friend is 30 minutes late for our art day in my back yard. I can’t decide whether to be anxious, annoyed, or liberated to power through a more pressing task, so, paralyzed by indecisiveness, I compromise by feeling all three. I start by over-analyzing the possibilities.
Could it be that I have the day wrong? I try to call her but am relegated to leaving a message. I ask my husband how long I should wait.
Was I being too inflexible and selfish when I insisted on doing it today rather than Wednesday because on Wednesday I wouldn’t have enough downtime after seeing "The Help" with another friend?
Is she mad at me for being short with her the other day when she one-upped a symptom I was kvetching about by describing an even more gruesome affliction of hers rather than compassionately listening? Or have I inadvertently offended her in some other way? I have to constantly remind myself to anticipate pitfalls and avoid committing breaches of etiquette and tactfulness." Read the rest here...
Autistic and Seeking a Place in an Adult World
the coordinator of a new kind of “transition to adulthood” program for special education students at Montclair High School, wondered if they were all in over their heads...
Oregon Days of Culture
"A REAL MAN" with Mike Guido is a great local event that is part of the Oregon Days of Culture
DOE Survey re:parent disputes with schools
significant emotional and financial costs associated with disputes between educators and parents of children with special needs
More of "Hearts filled with Love..."
Coming up this October 1st is a truly special event. Mike Guido, a successful stand-up comic formerly of Eugene, will be returning for his one man show, "A Real Man". A tale of comedy, tragedy and inspiration, this live performance will surely touch you. If you find few people understand what you, as a parent or loved one of someone on the spectrum, go through every day, invite them to join you for this show. In the midst of all the laughter and tears, they just might get it. Raising awareness is one of our missions, and we’re hoping this will be one fun way to make it happen.
VIP tickets get in you early to meet Mike, listen to Paul Safar on a great Grand Piano, and get a head start on our silent auction. Regular ticket doors open at 7:00 pm. And the show begins at 7:30 with me and Mary-Minn doing a special number! Don’t miss it, and don’t be late! GET YOUR TICKETS HERE!
Later in October, at 3:00 on Sunday the 23rd, we present our 8th Mask Making Party. This one is a little different as there is no Karaoke. Instead we have a Talent Show. Hart Keene the Magician will be the host, encouraging you to get on stage and share your talent - dance, song, poetry, mathematics, disappearing, whatever. There will be a sign up sheet, and you can even call ahead at 541 521 7208 or autism@kindtree.org to get on the list early. Keep your act to 8 minutes, please.
Finally, we are reaching out this Fall to folks in Cottage Grove with a special Art Opening at the Axe and Fiddle in December - watch for the dates. I hope you can share in some of these activities with us. It’s always a treat to see you.
Thanks for listening...
Visit www.kindtree.org
updates weekly
New art!
New T-shirt colors!
New: Aprons!!
A succesful stand-up comic, formerly of Eugene, has taken his struggles coping with his daughter's autism and turned them into a one-man show, offered by KindTree - Autism Rocks on October 1, 2011, 7:30 pm at the Wildish Theater in Springfield, Oregon.
Mike Guido hopes that by sharing his story, he'll help other parents, and particularly dads, cope with the challenges and the joys of parenting a special needs child.
His daughter Maria, 19, has severe autism and will always live at home. She needs help with dressing, bathing and has communication challenges.
"If you'd have told me 16 or 17 years ago that I'd get through it and be OK and be grateful for it all, I would have said, 'I'm not that kind of guy,' " Guido said. "But when you have no choice, you just do it and that's what happened to me.
"I'm trying to get across to people that we're all capable of so much more than we realize."
Standard Ticket - $14 pre-event, $18 at the door. Door opens at 7:00pm
Group Tickets (6) - $75
VIP Tickets - $25 pre-event, $30 at the door (starts at 6:00pm and features Paul Safar on Piano)
VIP Group Tickets (6) - $135 Special Price for persons with autism - $10
Autism Rocks Art Display at Village Health in the Woodfield Station shopping area at Willamette and 28th.
Art by People with autism in a healing environment
"Right about midnight, Shaina heard a small, tiny noise from the corner of her room, behind the dresser. She held oh, so still, and only looked with one eye.…"
Shaina is a girl who loves bedtime snacks, and she's not the only one. Will she learn to share? Read about Shaina and her adventures meeting the Snackits: snack hungry critters hiding under the bed!
Available at: www.amazon.com
Or directly from the author - KindTree's own Tim Mueller - at www.gwproj.com, signed by author and illustrator, Tim's daughter Miranda.
"My kids loved it. I liked that there were healthy snacks, too. What a great story for bedtime!"
The days are longer, the sun is warmer, it's time to plant the peas! But more than that, it's time to open up your life a little and participate in the autism community. As a member of our Peer Support Group says, "This is my best time. "
Here are a few ways you can add some fun, energy or passion into your life:
Join our new BLOG. You can make comments, join the discussion, or e-mail Melissa@kindtree.org to become a contributor and post your own topics. Right now there is a discussion going on about the new DSM definition of who has autism. What is your opinion?
Friend us on Facebook. This is a great way to get KindTree news about upcoming events and issues and opportunities! We have updates almost daily on our website that get announced on Facebook. Stay on top of things with KindTree - Autism Rocks.
Contact to your Legislator. The Oregon Legislature is in the middle of a short session. They always want to hear from you. Go here to find opportunities to get informed.
GOT TALENT?? We wanna know! KindTree - Autism Rocks is producing a fun Variety Show (SOMEWHERE OVER THE SPECTRUM) for people on the spectrum of all ages and abilities. Music, magic, puppets, poetry, comedy, fashion, mime, spoken word, skits, dance, all are welcome and ecouraged. If you or someone you know is a performer with autism, please join us for our casting call at the Hilyard Center Sunday March 4 at 2:00 pm. It's a Talent Serach! More info here, printable flyer here. Share with your friends and colleagues. Put a band together. Let's have a SHOW!
New autism definition may exclude many
Only 45 percent of the highest functioning autistic people in the study would meet proposed criteria for diagnosis
KindTree - Autism Rocks eFLASH! News,
January 2012
Dear Friend,
KindTree - Autism Rocks is Reaching Out
For many people on the spectrum - and for their overworked parents - maintaining a social network can be a big challenge. KindTree - Autism Rocks is working to meet that challenge in two new ways
Introducing our new BLOG. With the help of Melissa Farley, an intern from the University of Oregon, we are inviting you all to visit the blog, make comments on the posts there, and be part of an online community based right here in Oregon.
You can click to become a follower and be notified when new comments and posts are uploaded. You can click to invite your friends to participate with you. And you can e-mail Melissa@kindtree.org to become a contributor and post your own topics.
We also encourage you to friend us on Facebook. This is a great way to get KindTree news!
The second plan we have is to begin a new program dedicated to building life skills, social skills, and lasting relationship, the kinds of skills that are born at our Autism Camp. We're calling this the "stIle Program" - "Specialized Training for an Independent Living Experience". Stay tuned for more on this later in the year.
These new ventures take time and money. Please consider volunteering or making a donation.
KindTree - Autism Rocks is receiving original art for jurying for the "Autism Artism 2012" gallery show, scheduled for April 2012 at Terrirorial Vineyards. And we'd like you to enter to be in it. This is a great opportunity, and great fun, plus you could make some money.
KindTree's Autism Rocks Traveling Art Show features all mediums of artistc expression. We can scan your paintings or other visual creations. We can print short stories or poetry, photographs and images of your sculptures or weavings, create flash versions of your video and audio productoions. We can post these things on this website for all the world to enjoy.
In 2009, KindTree wrote checks totaling over $3000 to artists with autism. We pay our artists 50% of all our gross sales amounts, less venue commision. This is a great deal! Artists pay nothing up front - no production expenses or promotional fees at all. Nada.
At kindtree.org, hover on the 'Art Program' link and click on 'KindTree Artist Guild'.
Autism Artism 2012 Submission Deadline
- February 10, 2012
The Autism Society of Oregon (ASO) is hosting a panel discussion with three adults on the Autism Spectrum. Self-advocates on the Autism Spectrum have a tremendous amount of information to share about what life is like from their unique perspectives and their experiences as Autistic individuals.
This event will be an interactive session with the Panelists discussing topics of personal interest, as well as insights about effective self-advocacy, successful employment, navigating social situations and relationships, coping with sensory integration issues, and strategies for handling transitions effectively.
The event will be held on Friday, January 20, 2012, from 6:00 to 8:30 pm from at the Hilyard Center, 2580 Hilyard St, Eugene. A suggested donation of $5 is requested. The event is appropriate for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), people who think they may be on the Autism Spectrum, parents, caregivers, agency personnel and educators.
Jonathan Chase is a working musician as well as an advocate and professional speaker. He currently serves on the board of the Autism Society of Oregon and is involved with other autism related organizations and causes.
Amber Perry is a Chapter Representative for the Autism Society of Oregon in Lane County and a volunteer with KindTree Productions - Autism Rocks.
Mary-Minn Sirag has been teaching art and leading activities for the City of Eugene’s Adaptive Recreation program for the past 10 years, as well as helping folks with disabilities live more independently through Full Access Brokerage and Lane Independent Living Alliance. She has also worked with kids on the spectrum and given talks to classrooms and agencies. She is a Chapter Representative for the Autism Society of Oregon in Lane County and President of KindTree Productions - Autism Rocks.
Come enjoy some great music while you help support our programs for the Autism Community.
Catch the Debut Performance of "Steel Wool", the newest combo featuring TR Kelly and Randy Hamme of the Raventones, plus Tim Mueller and Nel Applegate doing all original songs. Rockin'.
Followed by DJ & Ray, doing some serious Sunday Night Metal Shredding.
What a bill! And people with autism can get in free.
So put it on your calendar. Come on down. Have a beer. Have a slice of Pizza. Join the Community.
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