2016 Ms. Wheelchair Washington
Nicole Martini
Don Stevenson- The Pacin’ Parson
Don StevensonThe Pacin’ Parson
Auburn Washington’s Don Stevenson is at it again, walking over 300 miles to the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse in Ilwaco, WA and back to raise awareness for the Spina Bifida Association of Washington State. He is 74 and will be walking 30 miles a day!
Walking for others, to encourage and inspire.
You can support Don’s efforts by making a contribution to the Spina Bifida Association of Washington State
Online at www.firstgiving.com/sbaws. Or send a check noting “Walk to the Light” to:
Spina Bifida Association of Washington State
2128 N. Pines Road, Suite 17-3
Spokane, WA 99206
Don was born in Columbus, Ohio on January 4th, 1936 in the middle of a snow storm. He was number four of eight children. He dropped out of high school to join the US Marine Corps in 1954.
After leaving the Marines in January, 1957 he completed 3 years of high school and 4 years of college in 4 years, receiving his high school diploma in 1959, and his Bachelor of Theology Degree (cum laude) in 1961.
Don lives in Auburn, WA. He is a Christian author, former school teacher, pastor, volunteer firefighter, and truck driver.
After 28 years of service with Darigold Inc. he retired in 1994 to devote his time to writing.
He and his lovely wife Loretta have been married since 1983. Don says of her, “She’s such a game soul and a real sport! I’m a hard man to love, but she makes it look so easy.”
Of his reason for walking, Don explains, “God has blessed me with good health, and out of gratitude I’ve tried sharing that blessing with those who are less fortunate. I'm a happy, wealthy man. I don't possess much of this world's goods, but I do possess that which money cannot purchase—Love, Joy, and Peace!”
• Don has jogged over 40,000 miles of walking for various charities since 1998.
• at age 62 (1998) he walked (3,000 miles) from Seattle to Portland, Maine for Alzheimer’s;
• at age 63 (1999) he walked (900 miles) to lighthouses in Washington State for Alzheimer’s;
• at age 64 (2000) he walked (4,000 miles) from Tijuana, Mexico to Anchorage, Alaska for Multiple Sclerosis;
• at age 65 (2001) he walked (3,000 miles) for Multiple Sclerosis from Seattle to New York City; at age 66 (2002) he walked 8,000 miles in Auburn, WA’s Game Farm Park for Multiple Sclerosis;
• at age 67 (2003) he walked a thousand miles over 12 of Washington State’s mountain highway passes for Alzheimer’s,
• at age 68 (2004) he hiked round trip from Auburn, WA (c200 miles) to Mt. Rainier for the Maria Federicci Trust Fund;
• at age 68 (2004) he climbed to the 12,300 foot level of Mt. Rainier for the American Lung Association.
• at age 68 (2004) he hiked 106 miles blindfolded across the Cascade Range for the Maria Federicci Trust Fund;
• at age 69 (2005) he hiked 1,750 miles to all the county seats in Washington State for Alzheimer’s;
• at age 70 (2006) he hiked 2,400 miles to all 88 counties of Ohio for the American Cancer Society.
• At age 71 (2007) he began a 13,000 mile walk for Huntington’s Disease Society of America.
• At age 72 (2008) he finished the 13,000 mile walk for the HDSA by walking from the Seattle Space Needle to New York City’s Empire State Building.
• At age 73 (2009) he walked 360 miles to raise awareness for the Spina Bifida Association of Washington State.
• At age 73 (2009). besides giving moral support for Make A Wish Foundation, He walked 280 miles from Cleveland, Ohio to Cincinnati for Special Needs Kids of the Special Olympics Organization.
Abilities Expo Newsletter
Abilities Buzz
Dear Buzz Subscriber:
Abilities Expo Los Angeles is coming up fast on April 9-11 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Check out www.abilitiesexpo.com for all of the details. Don't forget to forward this e-newsletter to your family, friends and colleagues.
Email us at klara@abilitiesexpo.com if you have any questions relating to disabilities. We will address all of your questions and will post some answers in future issues of the Buzz.
News
Abilities Expo Extreme!
If you were hoping for a low-key trade show that would lull you peacefully to sleep, you may want to keep looking. On the other hand, if you want a high-energy expo that not only demonstrates "the extreme" but actually makes you a part of it, then pull out your calendar (or calendar app) and block out April 9-11, 2010. Held at the Los Angeles Convention Center, Abilities Expo helps attendees with disabilities take what they thought were their limitations and leave them in the dust. With the help of three extraordinary wheelchair athletes-Mark Wellman with his adaptive climbing wall, Aaron Fotheringham with his wheelchair stunts and Trevor Snowden with his wheelchair obstacle course-visitors will experience extreme sports and redefine their ideas about what they can accomplish. Adaptive Climbing Wall Picture 25 feet of artificial rock that can be scaled by anyone , regardless of their level of ability. All that is necessary is the desire to make
the ascent. Mark Wellman, expert mountaineer and founder of No Limits, will take care of the rest. ( read on )
Feature Product Spotlight: FreeWheel TM Wheelchair Attachment
FreeWheel TM Wheelchair Attachment will exhibit at the Los Angeles and New York Metro Abilities Expos on April 9-11 and May 21-23, 2010, respectively. With the right equipment, challenging terrain doesn't have to be an obstacle. Both simple and ingenious, the FreeWheel TM Wheelchair Attachment allows wheelchair users to traverse surfaces that would normally be impossible. A single wheel that easily clamps onto the footrest of almost any wheelchair, the design literally lifts the front casters off the ground and allows an individual greater stability in negotiating curbs, grass, snow, rough roads, uneven ground and more. This adaptive device was the brainchild of Pat Dougherty, a C6-7 quad from Boise, Idaho who was injured in a Motorcross accident in 2003. "I was frustrated at how difficult it was to get around," said Dougherty, proving once again that necessity is the mother of invention. "I knew there had to be a better way." ( read on )
Feature Last Chance: Take This Survey & Tell Us How You Feel! It's your life, and it's your assistive technology: Here's your chance to tell us how you feel! If you or a member of your household uses wheelchairs, walkers, scooters, standing frames, etc., we need your opinions. Mobility Management, an industry publication for mobility professionals including occupational and physical therapists, is taking a survey of consumers who use mobility-related assistive technology. Your answers can help the health-care industry to better understand and respond to your concerns, needs and wishes. It's your right to be heard! The survey should take just a few minutes to complete, but your opinions can help to shape the future of assistive technology. Speak up, speak out...and watch what can happen!
Feature
Do You Get UTIs? By Anthony R. Orefice III
Anthony is a Los Angeles Abilities Expo Ambassador , an antrepreneur and the owner of Wheelie Distribution.
Hello, my name is Anthony and I am a T4, T5, T6 paraplegic due to a motorcycle accident 16 years ago. I learned many tricks from other people with spinal cord injuries throughout the years. I would like to share one with you that has made a huge difference in my life. I fought urinary tract infections (UTIs) all the time. I was using sterile catheters and taking cranberry pills. About five years ago at a spinal cord meeting, a quadriplegic shared with us a product that he found that made his life of battling UTIs a thing of the past. It was a natural sugar that is extracted from cranberries and pineapples, a product is called D-mannose. ( read on )
Letter to the Editor So Much to Do, So Little Time!
Q: I'm coming to Abilities Expo Los Angeles in April and am really looking forward to seeing all the new products. Anything else I should plan for?
A: Absolutely! While it is true that people depend on Abilities Expo for solutions through the latest technologies, products, services and resources, they have also come to expect more. They want to gain more knowledge and insights about pressing disability issues, they want to get involved, they want try new things and they want to have a little fun. Abilities Expo delivers on all counts through a host of events, activities and workshops right on the show floor! Here's what's on tap for LA: ( read on )
Feature
PepsiCo's "Bob's House" Breaks New Ground in Inclusive Advertising
Amidst the sound and fury of the much-anticipated Superbowl Sunday commercials, one stood out for its uncharacteristic silence and the strength of its underlying message. "We live in a hearing world, where deaf people have to operate within that hearing world," said Sheri Christianson, PepsiCo employee. "In this ad, what we've done is kind of reverse the roles. It's a deaf world and we've included the hearing world." In its Superbowl Sunday broadcast debut, "Bob's House" capitalizes on a popular joke within the deaf community. It depicts two deaf men on their way to a Superbowl party who drive up to a dark street only to realize they have no idea which is the right house. Their solution is to lay on the horn as drive slowly down the street. The house that does not light up belongs to their friend, Bob, who is also deaf. ( View the commercial. ) ( read on )
Proposals for Spina Bifida Association's 2010 Young Investigator Awards
Launched in 2005, Spina Bifida Association's (SBA) Young Investigator Awards research program is unique in that it fosters scientists who are early in their careers and who will dedicate their skill and expertise to improving the lives of those with Spina Bifida. The purpose of the awards is to provide either initial or continuing financial support to a newly-independent investigator in an established research program. The research to be conducted by the fellow may be basic or clinical research but must be relevant to Spina Bifida.
This year SBA and Spina Bifida Foundation (SBF) are pleased to announce the continued availability of funding for research through this program. The 2010 Young Investigator Awards will be providing up to three fellowships. They are:
* The Ashley Rose Advancement in Research Award will provide up to $50,000. The Ashley Rose Foundation was established by Raymond and Linda Pitek in 1997 in honor of their baby, Ashley Rose. Areas of particular interest are epidemiology and causes of miscarriage related to neural tube defects, although other related research is welcome.
* The Tethered Cord Research Award provides up to $40,000. Areas of particular interest are Tethered Cord Syndrome and related clinical and scientific areas.
* The Schneider Charitable Trust Award for $25,000 was established by Hollister, Incorporated in 2008. Areas of particular interest are continence and related clinical and scientific areas.
Project length: One year
Deadline: All proposals are due before 9:00 pm EDT on Monday, May 10, 2010.
Additional Information: For detailed proposal requirements and more specific information on each award please visit SBA's online Research Center at www.spinabifidaassociation.org. You may also email Joe Giffels, Research Director at jgiffels@sbaa.org.
Robin Austin
Communications Specialist
Spina Bifida Association
4590 MacArthur Blvd. NW
Suite 250
Washington, DC 20007
202-944-3285 ext. 29
800-621-3141 ext. 29
Fax: 202-944-3295
Krystal Speaks at her college
On March 31, 2010 I was a part of the Multicultural Advisory Council meeting held on the Tacoma Community College campus. It was a great honor to have been invited to be with such a prestigious group of people working together to better assist the diverse people within the city of Tacoma. Everyone from Tacoma Community College employees to program directors and speakers from the Tacoma Area Coalition for Individuals with Disabilities to Pacific Lutheran University board members were in attendance. As a student on the TCC campus, I would have never thought I would have the chance to speak in front of such a driven group of people with the same focus of bringing all parts of the community together. I would like to thank everyone who was involved in getting me to this event.
Thank you for the Support- We had an awesome Walk N Roll
Ms. Wheelchair Washingtons off to the Abilties Expo
TAmmy
Parent to Parent Support Program
Learning that your child has a disability can be a bewildering time, a time full of questions and concerns. Having someone to talk to that has “been there” can provide the hope that you are not alone. We have a network of trained volunteer Helping Parents, all of whom have children with developmental disabilities. We match new parents with an experienced parent who has a child with a similar diagnosis and family circumstances.
Helping Parents are available to listen to your concerns which can be helpful in coping with these challenging new xperiences and feelings. In addition, we can help give you guidance and assistance with issues that arise throughout childhood, such as working with schools, health care and developmental concerns. Parent to Parent wants you to know that we understand, we care and are willing to help because we all have been there.
Parent to Parent Provides:
-- Matching of trained, experienced “Helping Parents” with parents who have children with similar diagnoses and family circumstances, to provide personal support
-- Current information about various disabilities
-- Information and referral to community resources and services
-- A place to connect with other parents through social & recreational events, e-mail support networks, support groups, and periodic educational trainings
-- Training for parents who would like to become volunteer Helping Parents
-- Public awareness, outreach and training to the community regarding people with disabilities and disability issues
TACID High Tea (April 7th at 5:00 pm).
On April 7th from 5:00 to 6:30 pm, TACID will host a high tea entitled The Word . . . The high tea will mark the first of a series of events to celebrate the 30th anniversary of TACID. Antonio Edwards, Jr., Tacoma's Poet Laureate will recite his favorite poems, humorous storyteller/comedian Barbara Sellers will perform, and authors Ruth Tiger and Mark Haward will do short readings from their books. Jannette Saxton, Ms Wheelchair Washington 2009 (First Runner-Up Ms Wheelchair America), and Krystal Monteros, the newly selected Ms Wheelchair Washington 2010, will be on hand to welcome guests. English style biscuits (cookies) and sandwiches will be provided along with tea, coffee, and fruit juice. The free event will feature tours of the TACID facility. For more details check out our High Tea Flyer.
All requests for reasonable accommodations including ASL interpreters and assistive listening devices for this event should be made to the TACID Receptionist 253-565-9000 ext. 10 (voice) or to barbara@tacid.org at least one week before the event.
MY HERO WAS A FRIEND NAMED TONY- YOU WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED
As time went on, I began to overcome all my insecurities and negative feelings. We realized, we both had a passion for people with disabilities, young people, and people who weren’t quite on the right track. He began to include me in every mission he had.
Once I caught on, I took his passion and applied it to my visions. I began to accept my problems as things that make me stronger. Just like Tony lived to help those around him, I began to develop the same heart. Now, I have achieved my highest accomplishment yet. I am Ms. Wheelchair Washington 2010! I would not be here today if it wasn’t for him instilling so much time and love into my life. It’s my turn to take what he gave me and use it to carry on his legacy with my title as Ms. Wheelchair Washington!
It’s still unbelievable but he’s gone to be with Jesus. For the past year or so, we both increased our schedule so much that we didn’t have as much time together as we did before. But God blessed me with the privilege of being with him and the family for the entire day before his passing. It was with a grateful heart that I dedicate this year in the Ms. Wheelchair Washington community to Tony McCane. Everything I do is because he took the time to comfort me. It showed me the power that lies within me. I have the power to give someone what Tony gave me. LIFE! He changed lives!
I want to say “thank you” to all the past Ms. Wheelchair Washington’s! You have all been so supportive through all of this! Thank you Jesus for all that you are and for giving me the honor of having Tony in my life! Because of Tony my life has not been the same! I am truly blessed! I LOVE YOU TONY!!!!!
“We will miss Tony. He was very much loved by all. He had a heart of gold, a smile that could light up a grand ballroom, a laugh that was contagious, a joy that brought peace in the midst of chaos, and words that brought encouragement when no one else believed in you. He passed early but he lived a full life and left a legacy that few can compare to. We could all learn from Tony… He went through so much and still kept that beautiful smile on his face, he still managed to glow. His spirit marks his legacy and we should all live our lives in light of how he lived his. I love you Tony, thank you for everything, you will forever be remembered in my heart, mind and spirit. You are my inspiration…” -- Klarissa Monteros
ARC OF KING COUNTY
Upcoming Events:
* Correction : The Arc of King County Parent Coalition was incorrectly identified as the King County Parent Association in January's enews letter. Please note that it should have been stated as the King County Parent Coalition.
The King County Parent Coalition is a grass roots program of The Arc of King County comprised of parents and family members who take non-partisan action to improve the lives of their family members who have developmental disabilities. This program is funded by a grant from the King County Developmental Disabilities Division.
-- February 23rd: Parent Teacher Student Association Special Needs group, Lake Washington school district
-- March 3rd: Spread the Word to End the Word day of awareness
-- Advocacy Days: January - March
-- The Learning Group takes place on Tuesdays at The Arc from 11:00am - 12:30pm to prepare for the following Advocacy Day. This group is open to all. Learning Group will be held on the following dates:
February 23 ~ March 2
Advocacy Day will take place on Wednesdays in Olympia. Registration is required for Advocacy Days. Those interested will meet at The Arc prior to travel to Olympia. Advocacy Days and the associated topics will take place on the following dates:
-- February 17 HB 2078 Report Jail/Correction
-- February 24 Independent Living Day Rally
-- March 3 Session Wrap-up
-- The Arc's Annual Living Our Legacy Awards Ceremony and Luncheon will be held at the Seattle Hyatt at Olive 8 on May 27, 2010 .
Community Living Grant (Deadline March 31, 2010): Applications are currently being considered for the Community Living Grant. Please send your applications to The Arc of King County, Attention: Community Living Grant Program, 233 Sixth Avenue N., Seattle, WA 98109 . The Arc of King County's grant committee will review each application and notify recipients by mail
For more information contact Mary Jo Magruder at mjmagruder@arcofkingcounty.org or call 206-829-7010.
Let Us Work Together to End the Use of the "R-Word"
By Patricia McNiff, Development Program Assistant at The Arc of King County
Huge momentum is underway to, once and for all, remove, from today's vernacular , one of the most offensive and derogatory terms that has been thoughtlessly attributed to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities . Advocates have decided that it is imperative now to make it clear that this word has denigrating effects against people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and is no longer acceptable to use.
Efforts are being made on many fronts to educate and encourage movement away from the derisive use of the "R-word". It is critical to raise the level of consciousness throughout, so that it is recognized by all that this word is indeed a slur, even if it is said without thinking, or true intention of offending. It must be known that whether intended or not, the use of the R-word is resoundingly hurtful to people with developmental disabilities, their families and friends.
The Respectful Language Bill, HB 2490 , is an important first step in establishing acknowledgement that ridding of the word is appropriate. This bill, currently under consideration by the Washington State Legislature, will re place the word, "mental retardation" with "intellectual disability" in all state language. Passage of the Respectful Language bill will set a precedent and show solid support for Federal Bill S.2781 , known as Rosa's Law, which would also remove the language "mental retardation" from all federal laws. Rosa's Law will signify alignment on a national level that this language should not be used.
Evangeline Abadinas, who actively advocates on behalf of herself and The Arc of King County, gave testimony on January 15th in support of the Respectful Language bill during a p ublic hearing held by the Washington State House Committee on State Government and Tribal Affairs. Abanidas urged the members of the House Committee to pass this legislation. She described how this bill will impact, not only her life, but also the lives of many, by saying, "I want you to know that to use the word retarded is not respectful. It is a word that hurts. When people call someone retarded, they are calling them a name, and that is not respectful to other people. It hurts."
In parallel efforts, The Special Olympics is a driving force behind the Spread the Word to End the Word campaign, designed to empower individuals to raise the common level of awareness to the disrespectful nature of the R-word, by making a Pledge to never use the word. This is a movement that was begun by young people who wanted to make a difference in their local communities to ensure respect for all, and to draw attention to abilities, not disabilities.
A day of awareness has been named for March 3, 2010 to Spread the Word to End the Word. This day no longer remains an ordinary day; it has now become an extraordinary day. All are urged to take a moment on this day, or any day, to pledge and make a commitment to oneself to no longer tolerate the word. By doing so, an example will be set to encourage others to also refrain from using the word, thereby emphasizing respect for all.
These combined efforts, along with the dedication of every individual, will be the key to success. Education will prove pivotal to raising the level of society's consciousness to secure dignified language for all. It is from this understanding that will create motivation to refuse to use the R-word and to mandate respect for all individuals. Now is the time.
Take action today during Advocacy Days
You, too, can make a difference today. Take a moment and call your representative, write a letter, or send an email expressing your concerns regarding the developmental disabilities bills of interest that directly impact the community, and are currently being considered by the Washington State Legislature. Look up who your WA state representatives are and find out how to contact them. Another suggestion, is to thank your representative for their leadership of particular bills that are important to you during this legislative session. For legislative updates, sign up for The Arc of Washington S tate's action alerts and weekly Olympia Insider news and information to keep yourself informed on continuously evolving bill activity. We, at The Arc of King County, need your voice to be heard now!
For more information about how you can help during Advocacy Days, please visit The Arc of Washington State's Legislative Action Center . Or contact Mary Jo Magruder at mjmagruder@arcofkingcounty.org or call 206-829-7010.
For questions or comments, please contact Patricia McNiff at pmcniff@arcofkingcounty.org , or call 206-829-7001.
In Related News
The Arc of the United States recently made a public statement in response to an unfortunate circumstance, first reported in The Wall Street Journal, where Chief of Staff, Rahm Emanuel expressed his displeasure by using the R-word during a White House policy meeting in August. The Arc of the United States issued a press release on January 27th condemning this inappropriate remark. The casual use of this word, by a powerful government official, demonstrates its pervasiveness in today's society. Timothy Shriver, CEO of the Special Olympics, also called attention to the incident on January 26th in a letter to Rahm Emanuel , which expressed disappointment in Emanuel's poor choice, pointing out the derogatory effects the word has on many.
Mitch Freedman Joins The Arc of King County Board of Directors
The Arc of King County welcomes Mitch Freedman, who will generously serve as a member of its Board of Directors. Mitch Freedman is a financial executive with over twenty years of experience in the accounting and investment industries.
Currently, he is the Corporate President and Founding Partner of Mitch Freedman PS Inc. in Bellevue, Washington providing tax preparation, retirement & estate planning, and investment consulting services for individuals, families and businesses.
His prior career experiences include working as a staff accountant for Fluery & Company PS of Seattle in addition to serving as Assistant Vice President of Financial and Regulatory Reporting for Shearson Lehman Commercial Paper, Inc. in New York.
Mitch is involved with the Autism Society of Washington and has performed its treasury functions for the past two years. He also serves on several boards as a member of the Bellevue Breakfast Rotary Club.
Mitch expressed his motivation to serve as a Board Member for The Arc: As a parent of two children with special needs, our family has been on the receiving end of services that The Arc of King County dedicates itself to through its mission and vision. Therefore, I know how important The Arcs work is and Im now in a position to offer help to others. His hope is to offer expertise, insight and direction as a CPA, financial advisor, parent and friend.
Volunteer at The Arc
Are you looking for a way to spend your time helping to make a positive difference in another's life? The Arc of King County's volunteer program offers you the opportunity to do just that. It is also a great way for high school and college students to contribute in a positive way, while gaining professional work experience. Come add value to The Arc, meet new people and have some fun .
Your experience is important to us, so we will work with you to find a role that best suits your interests and abilities. There are many roles to chose from at The Arc, so come, add value, meet new people and have
some fun. We look forward to meeting you!
Fill out the volunteer application here today and get started at The Arc!
Contact Aaron Clarry to learn more about these great volunteer opportunities at 206-364-6337 or aclarry@arcofkingcounty.org
WHAT IS HAPPENING IN THE SPINA BIFIDA WORLD
Walking to the Light
Auburn Washington's Don Stevenson is at it again, walking over 300 miles to the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse in Ilwaco, WA and BACK to raise awareness for the Spina Bifida Association of Washington State. He is 74 and will be walking 30 miles a day. You can support Don by making a donation to the SBAWS. Don will be walking from March 18th to April 5th, 2010.
Starting your own Personal or Team Page is Easy:
Click on the "Get Started" Button above. Follow the links to create your own page. Personalize the text and the photo on your online fundraising page to express your passions and purpose. Send the link out to your friends, family and colleagues - anyone you think will help you reach your goal.
The Spina Bifida Association of Washington State is a group of people affected by Spina Bifida including family members, friends and professionals. Anyone with an interest may join. Dues are not a requirement! Donations are strictly voluntary, but greatly appreciated. We'd be happy to have you join in our cause.
Spina Bifida is the most common permamently disabling birth defect in the United States. Spina bifida is more common than muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, and cystic fibrosis combined.
Our MISSION is to promote the prevention of Spina Bifida and to enhance the lives of all affected. Please join us in our cause!
You can donate online using your debit or credit card through the link on this page or send us a check at the address below.
Spina Bifida Association of Washington State
2128 N. Pines Rd., Suite 17-3
Spokane, WA 99206-6633
Toll Free 888-289-3702 Phone 253-589-3700
Fax 509-327-2420 Email sbaws@yahoo.com
Website: www.sbaws.org
EARLY REGISTRATION FOR SBA’S NATIONAL CONFERENCE ENDS MAY 31! http://conference.spinabifidaassociation.org/site/c.qkI1KgMTIrF/b.5591643/k.BDE2/Home.htm
Register today and SAVE $60!
A room rate of $139/single or double plus tax has been secured for attendees. Reservations can be made by calling the resort directly at 800-233-1234. Be sure to tell the reservationist that you are with the Spina Bifida Association conference. The deadline for booking rooms at the discounted rate is June 8, 2010.
Register online today at http://conference.spinabifidaassociation.org/.
SEATTLE ADAPTIVE SPORTS EXPERIENCE - VOLLEYBALL & TENNIS
Youth Social following at Amy Yee Tennis Center
The Seattle Adaptive Sports Experience offers a clinic in Sitting Volleyball and Wheelchair Tennis Saturday, February 13, 2010 at Amy Yee Tennis Center in Seattle.
Brought to you by Seattle Parks and Recreation - Specialized Programs, Seattle Adaptive Sports and US Paralympics.
This a great place to come learn more about Paralympic sports and meet other people who enjoy being active in sports. All ages are welcome.
-- Are you a person with a physical disability or know someone?
-- Are you a school coach looking for more information on how to get a student involved in adaptive sports?
-- Are you a recreational, physical, or occupational therapist looking for activities to introduce to your clients?
There will be opportunities to watch demonstrations and get on the court for instruction.
Sitting Volleyball with US Paralympian - Silver Medalist Katie Holloway
Wheelchair Tennis with USTA Open Single Champion Anthony Anderson
Receive a US Paralympic t-shirt (while supply last) and poster for attending this clinic. Come learn more about the US Paralympic movement in sports for the physically disabled.
Amy Yee Tennis Center
2000 Martin Luther King Jr Way S
Seattle, WA 98144
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Join the Youth Social following the sports clinic:
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM with Camp Casey counselors and Pizza
Amy Yee Tennis Center
Watch for future clinics:
March 6, 2010 - Track and Field with Team Shadow, Jefferson HS Federal Way
April 17, 2010 - Cycling with Outdoors For All, Magunson Park Picnic Area #1
About Seattle Adaptive Sports
Seattle Adaptive Sports is a not-for-profit organization, tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. SAS is dedicated to the promotion of the well being of physically challenged individuals, by giving them the opportunity to participate and compete in athletic and recreational activities, including basketball, swimming, and track. SAS participants benefit from the physical activity and socialization opportunities offered by the organization, improving self-esteem and physical well being, as well as independence.
For questions about this event or Seattle Adaptive Sports, please contact
Tami English Seattle Adaptive Sports 253-297-5389
Judges at All American Girls Pageant- Krystal and Tammy
2010 Washington, Oregon and Idaho State Paperwork is now available. Please contact allamericangirl.directors@gmail.com to get your copy. Please remember to indicate which state you are requesting paperwork for.
For States not having state pageants: Become an All American Girl State appointed queen and you can be on your way to our 2010 National pageant to be held this August in Portland Oregon. Each state queen will receive her custom AAG crown, custom embroidered banner, pin and scepter. For more info email allamericangirl.directors@gmail.com
All American Girl is currently seeking Preliminary and State Directors. If you are interested, email us at allamericangirl.directors@gmail.com for more information.
Come and be an All American Girl...We are MORE than just a pageant!!!
County's Powerful Women's Leadership
Summit 2010
WE ARE THE PIPELINE
Saturday, March 6
10:00 am to noon
Commencement Bay Coffee Co.
2354 Jefferson Ave., Tacoma 253-274-1173
Join the discussion: 1) How will we concretely BE THE PIPELINE to identify and encourage our naturally powerful women (we all have power) to run for office? 2) What steps will we take this year to cultivate the next generation(s) of young women's power to prepare them to represent our half of the population?
It is 2010! Women in WA have had the right to vote for 100 years but we still don't have equal representation in elected offices, equal pay, and equal opportunities! I believe too many "women's issues" are still unresolved because we don't have enough women in offices to represent us and vote for (or against) legislation that would fully treat us as equal class residents and participants in our own democracy.
The 2010 elections will be held for precinct committee officers, all state representatives, many state senators, a US Senator, all three US Representatives, three county councilors, and one conservation district office. Will you be running for one of these offices? Do you, like me, know of a few dynamite women who could aptly represent her legislative district with one hand tied behind her back and both eyes blindfolded but no one has invited her to consider running for office?
Last year we talked about barriers to running and strengths we have that the "boys" don't have. Last year you inspired me by running or talking about running. I was disappointed to learn that of the appx. 200 offices up for election in Pierce County, 104 candidates had NO opponent. Ladies, if we don't plan to win, we plan to fail.
Help build our pipeline of women ready to run and lead!
Bring your mother, your daughter, your elected official(s). We have work to do!
Pierce County's Powerful Women's Leadership is a self-directed group started in 2009 to identify and encourage Pierce County women to run for elected offices to represent our half of the population.
Deb Blakeslee 3505 So. Orchard St., #A3 Tacoma, WA 98466, 253-460-3506, deb_blakeslee@yahoo.com
Miracles happen when people's inner convictions are SPARKED!!
The Spina Bifida Association (SBA) Scholarship Program
The Spina Bifida Association (SBA) Scholarship Program is open and accepting applications. The SBA Scholarship Program was established in 1988 to enhance opportunities for persons born with Spina Bifida to
achieve their full potential through higher education. Scholarships from SBA make it possible for the recipient to choose educational pursuits that may otherwise be outside of financial reach. SBA applauds young adults who have the determination to pursue higher education.
Please remember that scholarships are competitive and funds are limited, making it impossible to grant every request. The Scholarship Committee evaluates only complete applications based on the criteria set for the
scholarship program.
All interested students living with Spina Bifida are encouraged to apply by the March 3, 2010 deadline. For more information, or to download an application, visit www.spinabifidaassociation.org and select Quality of
Life under the Programs/Services menu. If you have questions please email 2010sbascholarship@sbaa.org
Tanya M. Coogan, CTRS
Director of Chapter Development
Spina Bifida Association
4590 MacArthur Blvd. NW, Suite 250
Washington, DC 20007
800-621-3141 ext. 23
202-944-3295 Fax
http://www.spinabifidaassociation.org/
Ms. Wheelchair Washington get to know Krystal
I just wanted to touch base again and find out who can make it up to Snohomish this weekend. IF there is going to be a problem with everyone getting up here I am going to suggest that we meet at South Center for lunch as the discussion that I am calling for needs to happen soon. I committed to the Spina Bifida Association that I would coordinate as many of us to participate in the upcoming fundraising event - see info below.
If, for some reason, we cannot all get together I am going to ask that Krystal provide us with the time and location at the park to meet on March 20th - this time should include prep and set up prior to the event. The plan is for us to meet and greet participants as a group representing the Ms. Wheelchair WA program.
Again, I would love to see you all this Sunday, so let's decide where to meet at noon for lunch and discussion. Below is the forwarded press release of the event for reference.
March 20th Chosen for Annual Walk-n-Roll for Spina Bifida
Olympia, Washington (Press Release) February 10, 2010—The Spina Bifida Association of Washington State (SBAWS) is gearing up for their annual “Walk-N-Roll” event as part of the National Spina Bifida Walk-N-Roll. The Walk-N-Roll will take place on Saturday, March 20, 2010 at Rainier Vista Park in Lacey, Washington.
Registration for the walk opens at 9:00am with a special program 10:00am and the walk itself beginning at noon. The Walk Route will be contained within this beautiful, flat Lacey park. Anyone interested in raising pledges, offering donations or volunteering for the walk can visit www.sbaws.org and click on Walk-N-Roll or call 360-888-7701 for walker registration information.
By joining others in the Walk-n-Roll for Spina Bifida you are adding your voice to the thousands in support of better tomorrows for those with Spina Bifida.
To lend a helping hand contact one of the Co-Chairs:
Heather Logan 360-888-0782 Heather_Logan@juno.com, or Krystal Monteros 360-888-7701 babykeitho@aol.com or the SBAWS Office at sbaws@yahoo.com
Our Emcee Janet Harding Miss Washington 2008
Krystal Monteros, Ms Wheelchair Washington 2010, SBAWS Secretary & Board Member
Aaron Fotheringham--A young man with Spina Bifida will demonstrate his talents of “hardcore sitting” and his wheelchair back flip, the first person ever to do this. His performance is a once in a lifetime event that you won’t want to miss! Make sure you’re there! See his amazing abilities on line.
Others scheduled to attend:
Ed Kennedy, Chair of SBAWS
Chris Morris, Executive Director of South Puget Sound Parent2Parent
Meg Paulsen, Ms Wheelchair Washington 2008 title holder and current SBAWS board member
Brooklynne Adams, Ms. Thurston County 2009
Tammy Wilber, Ms. Wheelchair Washington Coordinator
Over 250,000 Americans are in the Spina Bifida community. More than 180,000 people in the United States are currently living with Spina Bifida, the most common permanently disabling birth defect. Spina Bifida is a neural tube defect that happens in the first month of pregnancy when the spinal column doesn’t close completely. There are 60 million women at risk of having a baby born with Spina Bifida. Everyday, an average of 8 babies are born that are affected by Spina Bifida or a similar birth defect of the brain and spine. Each year, about 3,000 pregnancies involve these birth defects.
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