|
Korean American
Adoptee Adoptive Family Network |
News
July 2, 2009 |
Subscribe or Unsubscribe |
|
2009 KAAN Conference |
|
2009 KAAN Conference |
|
The 2009 KAAN Conference will be held in Denver, July 31 to Aug 2, 2009. Our theme will be: Extending the Family of Korean Adoption. Registration is now open at www.kaanconference.com |
|
KAAN Conference Early Registration Rate Extended Through July 15th! |
|
We know that with the all the stress on the economy are experiencing financial difficulty. In support of our community, KAAN is extending the early registration rate through July 15th. We want to see you at the KAAN conference! Testimonial from Mark Hagland: Hey, folks! You've GOT TO consider what promises to be a great experience this summer! It's the annual KAAN Conference, for adult Korean adoptees, adoptive families, and Korean-Americans. This is the eleventh annual conference that uniquely brings together all the member groups around Korean adoption. This year's conference, to be held at the Sheraton Denver Hotel in Denver, CO, July 31-August 2, promises the best sessions ever. For example, Carissa Woodwyk, an adult Korean adoptee who is a licensed marriage and family therapist and has authored the book, "Before You Were Mine," will talk in a keynote address about the impact of relinquishment on adoptees' psyches; an adult adoptee and a relative by family association will discuss "Family Labels and Language" and talk about what it means to have to explain one's family on a regular basis; and, in an adult-adoptees-only session, adult adoptees will talk about "Why I Don't Like My Face"--topics around face and body image issues that many adult transracial adoptees face. Adult adoptees will also be able to join together on Friday evening, July 31, for an adult adoptees-and-their-guests-only dinner. The good news is, early-bird registration has been extended through July 15. And the conference remains an extremely reasonably priced event for anyone with experience around Korean adoption.The KAAN Conference which will be held July 31 - August 2, 2009 in Denver. Register today at www.kaanconference.com |
A Euro-American on a Korean Tour at a Thai Restaurant in China : With
each chapter examining issues that interethnic adoptive families experience, Chris
Winston weaves her own perspective on her adoption experience with perspectives
related to her by her own children, adopted adults, other adoptive parents, birth
parents, Koreans, Korean Americans, and Asian Americans. While the book’s focus
is on experiences with Korean adoption, the experiences are transferable to inter-ethnic
adoptions from any country. Author's
speaking engagements... |
Pushing Up the Sky : This is the story of a remarkable family facing
incredible challenges of cancer while simultaneously figuring out how to weave their
adopted children's Korean heritage and racial ethnicity into their family. It is a story of
compromises and insights, profound joy, deep suffering, and terrific rewards. Parenting birth
and adopted children — is one theme of this book. Most of all, it is a story on the meaning
of family, and learning to let go of expectations and to forge a new identity. Author's
speaking engagements... |
| Proceeds from book sales support the KAAN Conference. Purchase your copy at www.kaanet.com/books/ | |
|
When my American friend Morgan introduced her sister to me and told me about her adoption so naturally, I was quite shocked; because, in Korea, adoptees are very reluctant to let people
know about their adoptions. Read More: http://www.lexiophiles.com |
|
South Korea Tuesday issued its first high-denomination banknote for 36 years, ending an era of bulging wallets and raising hopes among retailers that consumers may be enticed to spend more.
Read More: http://news.morningstar.com |
|
A trip to South Korea reveals barbecue that is a delicate balance of hot and cold, spicy and sweet, hearty and healthy. Read More: http://www.bonappetit.com |
|
Korean music has gained worldwide recognition with the sounds of K-pop recording artists like Rain, BoA and Big Bang. Read more: http://joongangdaily.joins.com
|
|
Harvard professor David McCann says America is ready for sijo Read More: http://www.boston.com |
|
In an innovative program designed to meet the infants’ emotional as well as physical needs, many have teenage girls from their extended families living with them at the orphanage.
Read More: http://www.nytimes.com |
|
History issues have been very sensitive and significant in the entire region of Northeast Asia. We met with Prof. Shin Gi-wook of Stanford University and director of Asia-Pacific Research
Center, who is calling for a new model for reconciliation in Northeast Asia, which has been interlocked in confusion due to the issues of nationalism and history.. Read More: http://english.historyfoundation.or.kr |
|
Watch at http://www.fox23news.com |
|
Racialicious is a blog about the intersection of race and pop culture. Check out our daily updates on the latest celebrity gaffes, our no-holds-barred critique of questionable media representations,
and of course, the inevitable Keanu Reeves newsflashes. http://www.racialicious.com
|
|
Colorism is defined as discriminatory treatment of individuals falling within the same 'racial' group on the basis of skin color. That is, some people, particularly women, are treated better or worse on account of the color of their skin relative to other people who share their same racial category. Colorism affects Asian Americans from many different backgrounds and who live in all different parts of the United States. Is Lighter Better? discusses this often-overlooked topic. Rondilla and Spickard ask important questions like: what are the colorism issues that operate in Asian American communities? Are they the same issues for all sorts of Asian Americans for women and for men, for immigrants and the American born, for Chinese, Filipinos, Koreans, Vietnamese, and all the other sorts of Asian Americans? Do they reflect a desire to look like White people, or is some other motive at work? Including numerous stories about and by people who have faced discrimination in their own lives, this book is an invaluable resource for people interested in colorism among Asian Americans. Available through Amazon at http://www.amazon.com |
|
We know that with the all the stress on the economy are experiencing financial difficulty. In support of our community, KAAN is extending the early registration rate through July 15th. We want to see you at the KAAN conference! Testimonial from Mark Hagland: Hey, folks! You've GOT TO consider what promises to be a great experience this summer! It's the annual KAAN Conference, for adult Korean adoptees, adoptive families, and Korean-Americans. This is the eleventh annual conference that uniquely brings together all the member groups around Korean adoption. This year's conference, to be held at the Sheraton Denver Hotel in Denver, CO, July 31-August 2, promises the best sessions ever. For example, Carissa Woodwyk, an adult Korean adoptee who is a licensed marriage and family therapist and has authored the book, "Before You Were Mine," will talk in a keynote address about the impact of relinquishment on adoptees' psyches; an adult adoptee and a relative by family association will discuss "Family Labels and Language" and talk about what it means to have to explain one's family on a regular basis; and, in an adult-adoptees-only session, adult adoptees will talk about "Why I Don't Like My Face"--topics around face and body image issues that many adult transracial adoptees face. Adult adoptees will also be able to join together on Friday evening, July 31, for an adult adoptees-and-their-guests-only dinner. The good news is, early-bird registration has been extended through July 15. And the conference remains an extremely reasonably priced event for anyone with experience around Korean adoption. The KAAN Conference which will be held July 31 - August 2, 2009 in Denver. Register today at www.kaanconference.com |
|
Hosting a Youth for Understanding international exchange student is an enriching experience for you and the entire family. By opening your home and heart to a student from overseas, you and your family will gain a new global perspective, many memories, and - quite possibly - a new family member for life! Become a host family with YFU today! For more information and to fill out a host family
Application
visit
www.YFU-USA.org, call 1.800.872.0200 or e-mail
admissions@yfu.org. |
|
SHIN HAE-CHUL and N.EX.T., SOUTH KOREA'S GREATEST ROCK BAND, PERFORMS ON JULY 4 AT THE FORD AMPHITHEATRE video: live on MTV Korea video: live fusion of electronica/rock/traditional video: Shin Hae-chul ballad video: music video for Korean movie soundtrack The Los Angeles County Arts Commission and Asiatic Empire presents, on Saturday, July 4, 2009 at the historic Ford Amphitheatre in Hollywood , the first US performance by South Korean pop legend Shin Hae Chul and his band N.EX.T. One of Korea´s most famous celebrities, Shin Hae Chul is regarded as a "genius" of Korean music who, along with his cousin Seo Taiji, transformed the Korean music industry in 1992, paving the way for the contemporary Kpop genre. Shin Hae Chul and N.EX.T., with their penchant for experimentation and artistic originality and excellence, are often compared to the Beatles. N.EX.T. is widely hailed as Korea´s greatest and most exciting live rock band. This concert on Independence Day is a partnership between the grassroots promotion group Asiatic Empire and the Los Angeles County Arts Commission. Selected out of a highly competitive pool for the Ford´s Summer Partnership Program, this non-rental, nonprofit concert will hold interest not just for the Korean community but for all of Los Angeles . An international exchange of cultures on one of America´s most important holidays that will strengthen ties between South Korea and Los Angeles , the performance by Shin Hae Chul and N.EX.T. will be a world music presentation that fuses Kpop with the sounds of traditional Korea . The July 4 concert, which will be the US leg of Shin Hae Chul´s Awakening World Tour, is sponsored by Korean Air and Korea Daily, with additional sponsors Base, TVK24, LA 18, Whisper Entertainment, KTownLove.com, LA Weekly, Flavorpill, and KPFK. For tickets ($55 for tier 1 and $40 for tier 2), log on to www.fordtheatres.org or call the Ford Box Office at 323-461-3673 (or 323 GO 1-FORD for non-visual media). For Korean-language service, contact the Korea Daily Box Office at 213-368-2522. Through the Ford´s early buyer incentive, those who buy tickets on or before June 27, 2009 pay only $50 for tier 1 and $35 for tier 2. The Ford Amphitheatre is located at 2580 Cahuenga Blvd. East , Hollywood , CA 90068 , just off the 101 Hollywood Freeway across from the Hollywood Bowl and south of Universal Studios. The grounds open two hours before showtime for picnicking. The Ford offers a number of dining options: a variety of food and beverages is available on site and box dinners for evening events may be ordered in advance. Patrons are welcome to bring their own food and drink. The Ford is disabled accessible. Portable wireless listening devices are available upon request. On-site, stacked parking costs $5 per vehicle for evening shows and $1 per vehicle for morning family shows. For evening shows only, FREE non-stacked parking serviced by a FREE shuttle to the Ford, for evening amphitheatre performances only, is available at the Universal City Metro Station lot at Lankershim Blvd. and Camp de Cahuenga. The shuttle, which cycles every 15-20 minutes, stops in the "kiss and ride" area. This event is part of the Ford Amphitheatre 2009 Season, a multi-disciplinary arts series produced by the Los Angeles County Arts Commission in cooperation with Los Angeles County-based arts organizations. For a complete season schedule, directions to the theatre and parking information, log on to www.FordTheatres.org. |
|
AMY ANDERSON'S Stand Up Comedy Workshop: LEARN AND PERFORM STAND-UP IN ONLY 6 WEEKS! Are you funny? Have your friends and family always told you that you should be a comedian? Are you interested in trying stand up, but just aren't sure how to start? Or maybe you're just looking for a creative outlet in your life. Whether you are a comedy virgin or an experienced speaker, this Six Week Stand-Up Class will show you how to take the stage with confidence and make people laugh. You will develop your unique performer's voice and gain practical, first-hand knowledge from a working professional with teaching skills, not just someone whose career is teaching. Amy takes a "workshop" style approach to her classes where each student will rehearse, participate, receive individual attention and learn from each other. It is a supportive and fun environment and each six week session ends with a showcase at a comedy club. Classes are also ongoing, so after your initial six weeks, you can continue on to the next session, further developing your act and performing in future showcases. Whether you're a comedian, actor, writer, host, public speaker or just want to try something new, this class has something for you! During the class you will learn how to: * Choose premises that showcase your unique personality * Construct and develop a joke * Avoid common mistakes made by most newcomers * Build a starter set that will serve as the foundation for more material or add to and enhance existing material TWO CLASSES TO CHOOSE FROM: Beginning Wednesday, July 1, 2008 - $295, 7:00pm (Every Wed, July 1 – August 5) or Beginning Saturday, July 11, 2008 - $295, 10:00am (Every Sat, July 11 – August 15) INFO: (310) 927-2309 or ComedyWorkshopClass@gmail.com to reserve your spot in class! Class sizes are limited to ensure each student receives ample individual attention. Amy is also available for private coaching – call or email for rates. Comedian/Actress/Writer Amy Anderson has been an entertainer her whole life. Stating out on stage as a child musician and earning a degree in music education from the prestigious Westminster Choir College. She began her acting and comedy career in 1997 in Minneapolis as a member and teacher of various improv and sketch comedy troupes as well as acting in live theater and on camera. Since coming to Los Angeles in 2001, Amy has established herself as one of the hottest comedians in the country and one of only a few Asian Americans in the field. Her numerous national television appearances include, Hot Tamales Live! on Showtime, Premium Blend on Comedy Central, National Lampoon's Funny Money on The Game Show Network, Latino Laugh Festival and Inside Joke on Sitv, Asia Street Comedy on AZN, Loco Comedy Jam on Mun2, A2Z on VH1 and she was the first Asian American comedian and guest on The Tom Joyner Show on ABC. Amy was a featured comedian at HBO's: The Comedy Festival in Las Vegas and she is getting ready to tour with Hot Tamales Live this fall. Amy headlines hundreds of colleges, universities and clubs each year and is a regular performer at all of the top clubs in the L.A. area including The Improv, The Icehouse, The Comedy Store and The Laugh Factory. You can visit her official website at: www.AmyAnderson.net |
|
Korean American Resource & Cultural Center Doors Open 4:00 pm Matinee Program 4:30 pm Evening Program 6:30 pm Suggested Donation: $10 Place: 2701A West Peterson Ave. Chicago, Illinois 60659 The Korean American Resource and Cultural Center
|
|
Dillon International is gearing up to host “Discovery Days”, a special annual event designed for adoptees, 12-17 years old, who were adopted internationally and transracially. It is a great opportunity for teens to come together to share their insights and feelings about how adoption has impacted their lives, make new friends, learn, grown and have fun together. Dates: July 6-8th and July 20-22nd Location: Bridle Creek Horse Ranch and Resort in Sperry, Oklahama (10 minutes outside of Tulsa) http://bridlecreekok.com Cost: $175 (includes accommodations, meals, and events) To register, please contact Grace Claflin at 918-749-4600 or you may do so online by visiting http://www.dillonadopt.com. Hurry to sign up as deadlines are fast approaching (June 19th for the 1st session and June 26th for the 2nd). Mary Anne Mesko, BSW |
|
Mark your Calendars! You Don't Want to Miss the Fun! Please Come to Friends of Korea's Annual Summer Picnic! When: Sunday, July 12th from 2:00-5:00 (Note change of date) Where: Oak Lake in Hidden Valley, Granite Bay This is your chance for you and your kids to connect with other families that share a connection to Korea in a beautiful, relaxed setting. This will be a potluck event. Bring a dish to share and your own drinks. Ice water and a barbeque pit will be available. Please bring swim suits, towels, rafts, sunscreen, picnic blankets, canoes and life jackets to enjoy beautiful Oak Lake! RSVP to Michele Worley by Wednesday July 8th: dawfamdoc@aol.com Please let me know how many in your group will attend and what you plan to bring. We will need: burgers hot dogs (Worley) hamburger buns hot dog buns (Worley) hamburger fixings (tomatoes, lettuce, cheese) condiments salads desserts appetizers plates/napkins/plastic ware BBQ tools, coals, and lighting fluid I will send out an updated list of who has signed up for what items and what we will still need. Directions to Oak Lake: Using Hwy 80 from Sacramento, head east toward Roseville. Exit at Douglas Blvd East. You are heading toward Folsom Lake. Go approx. 6 miles on Douglas Blvd. Go left at Auburn-Folsom Rd. Go 1 3/4 miles. Go right on West Lane. Watch for balloons and a Friends of Korea sign. Follow signs to the lake. Using Hwy. 50 from Sacramento, head east toward Folsom. Exit at Folsom Blvd. Turn left, you will be heading north toward Auburn. Go about 10 miles. The road turns into Auburn-Folsom Rd. When you reach Douglas Blvd., go straight, following the directions above. Thank you Bowler family for hosting our location again this year! If lost or for more info call Annie Bowler @ 916 705-1325. |
|
Don't forget to book now for the 24th annual ARC Summer Intensives in Provincetown. For more info go to www.kinnect.org |
|
Where & When
Alliance Redwoods Camp & Conference Center Occidental, California We're particularly thrilled to welcome Rose "Mama" Rock, author who parented over 27 children, included comedian Chris Rock! Parents will attend a wide range of meaningful educational and recreational programming on parenting, adoption and race with an outstanding staff. We will also offer for adults and kids a huge range fun things: a swimming pool, basketball and volleyball courts, skate park, playground, climbing wall and a thrilling zip line. We are planning a special teen program and Teen Village for our older youth, and a film project headed up by adult adoptee and award-winning filmmaker Phil Bertelsen ("Outside Looking In"). To view program details go to: http://www.pactadopt.org Click here to register http://www.pactadopt.org |
|
BENNY, A Play About Adoption & Identity Opens 7/16 At Midtown Int'l Theater Fest by BWW News Desk John Montgomery Theatre Company announces the World Premiere of Benny, a bold new play about adoption and identity by Suzanne Bachner presented as part of the Midtown International Theater Festival to run from July 16th through August 1st at The June Havoc Theatre, 312 West 36th Street, 1st Floor, New York City. Benny is a kaleidoscopic theatrical portrait of Anna, a young woman who, after a diagnosis, a broken marriage and a lifetime of displacement, finds herself on a reluctant journey of self-discovery looking for a road to her birth parents and one that will bring her home. Benny marks the latest Bachner/Minskoff collaboration after their celebrated Off-Broadway production of Circlefor PS NBC@HERE, The Kraine Theater and The Raw Space, which won an OOBR award, ran Off- Broadway for five months, and whichThe New York Times called "Ingenious...it is no accident that so many of the sharp jokes come as complete surprises." Benny is the result of a two-year development process that was We Call Her Benny. Duncan Pflaster of BroadwayWorld.com called Benny, "One of the most theatrically interesting pieces I have seen in years...The direction is startlingly crisp and clean...The writing is deft and fearless...The cast is incredible...This play should be seen by anyone wanting to know the future of theatre." Trish Minskoff directs a powerhouse ensemble of five actors with significant dramatic achievements in New York theatre, Off-Broadway, Feature Film and Television, including Susan Barrett* (Television: 30 Rock, Law & Order), Bob Celli* (Off B'way: Circle, New York: Burn This), Morgan Lindsey Tachco (New York: The Expatriates, We Call Her Benny, Dumbya's Rapture), Tim Smallwood* (Film: Trust, Television: Law & Order), and Danny Wiseman* (Off B'way: Circle, Regional: Sweeney Todd, National Tour: Annie, Singin' in the Rain), all of whom are dedicated to supporting new dramatic works. Suzanne Bachner's plays have been seen at PS NBC@HERE, The Raw Space, Pulse Ensemble Theatre, The Duplex, The Michael Weller Theatre, The National Arts Club, Boston Center for the Performing Arts, and 20th Century Fox at the Coronet Theater in LA, among others. Plays include Don't Let Destiny Push You Around, Alexandra Triptych, Screwdrivers & Sunday Brunch, Jump Start, Alice Through the Looking Glass, Sex Edand the long-running cult hits, Icons & Outcasts and BITE. Suzanne studied playwriting with Romulus Linney (MFA, The first graduating class of Actors Studio Drama School at The New School), has received four OOBR Awards and is an active member of The Dramatists Guild. Trish Minskoff's NY credits include: When I Was a Girl, I Used to Scream and Shout, by Sharman Macdonald with Roberta Maxwell and Robin Morse (NY premiere), Don't Let Destiny Push You Around for PS NBC@HERE and Crimes of the Heart (National Theatre Workshop for the Handicapped for Emerge Arts). Workshop productions include: As Long as it's Morning (Rattlestick Theatre) and The Child (Vineyard Theatre). In addition, she assisted John Dexter on the Buxton Opera Festival and West End production of Gigi. Trish studied at LAMDA completing both the 3-year Acting Course and the 2-year Stage Management Courses, has an MFA in Directing and Playwriting from The Actors Studio at The New School University and is a member of The Dramatists Guild and The Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers. John Montgomery Theatre Company (JMTC) is a NYC-based international collective of actors, writers, directors and designers creating original dramatic work with an emphasis on the collaborative process. Bob Brader's Preparation Hex, which is heading to The London Fringe Festival, June 18-28, marks the kick-off of JMTC's 2009 summer festival season: Suzanne Bachner's new play Benny will debut at The Midtown International Theatre Festival, July 16 - August 1, directed by Trish Minskoff; The Samuel French Off-Off Broadway Short Play Festival will present Diving Kitty by Suzanne Bachner, July 14 - 19; and Bob Brader's Spitting in the Face of the Devil has been chosen for the New York International Fringe Festival, August 14 - 30. Tickets and additional information on JMTC's summer season can be found at www.jmtcinc.com . Trish Minskoff is director of Benny. Producer: Bob Brader; Technical Direction: Douglas Shearer; Lighting Consultant: John Tees, III (B'way: Sly Fox); Set and Costume Design: Nadia Volvic. Graphic Design: Michael Koch (Lighthouse Visions); Photography: Scott Wynn; Publicist: Paul Siebold. Benny plays on the following schedule through Saturday, August 1st: Thursday, July 16th @ 6:30pm Friday, July 17th @ 7pm Sunday, July 26th @ 4:30pm Wednesday, July 29th @ 4:30pm Saturday, August 1st @ 3pm Tickets are $20.50 for adults and $17.50 for students and seniors (no hidden fees!). Tickets can be purchased online at www.midtownfestival.org , or by calling 866-811-4111. Tickets are also available in person at the box office one half hour before show time. The June Havoc Theatre is located at 312 West 36th Street between 8th and 9th Avenues in Manhattan. Take the A, C or E train to 34TH Street. |
|
InKAS is holding a Summer Camp program for Korean adoptees to experience and learn Korean Culture.
It is our desire to aid in the understanding and experience of the true Korean culture during their visit. The program is mainly coordinated for overseas Korean adoptees to experience Korean cuisine, custom, culture and language via opportunities of direct participation and experiences.
InKAS Summer Camp is composed of several hands-on programs. There will be Korean cuisine cooking, Taekwondo, and other practical classes in several places in South Korea. After the classes, you will have an opportunity to experience the culture of young Korean people’s lives with young Korean adults.
? About the program - Korean culture Classes - Gathering with Korean young adults - Field Trip
? Program Details: Please indicate which program you are applying for. (July or August)
1. July Program (July 19th Sun to 25th, Sat)
Date Details Jul 19, Sun Check in/Welcoming Party Jul 20, Mon Go to South East Province 2:00-4:00: Korean culture activity 1 Jul 21, Tue 9:30-3:00: Korean culture activity 2 3:00-: Free time Jul 22, Wed 9:30-12:00: Korean culture activity 3 Cruse, Swimming Jul 23, Thu Go to Seoul Free Time Jul 24, Fri 9:30-3:00: City tour 5:00-6:30 : NANTA performance 7:00: Farewell Party Jul 25, Sat Check out
2. August Program (August 23rd Sun to 28th, Sat)
Date Details Aug 23, Sun Check in/Welcoming Party Aug 24, Mon Go to South West Province 2:00-4:00: Korean culture activity 1 Aug 25, Tue 9:30-3:00: Korean culture activity 2 3:00-: Free time Aug 26, Wed 9:30-12:00: Korean culture activity 3 Cruse, Swimming Aug 27, Thu Go to Seoul Free Time Aug 28, Fri 9:30-3:00: City tour 5:00-6:30 : NANTA performance 7:00: Farewell Party Aug 29, Sat Check out
? How to apply 1. Sign-up through the InKAS website and go to the Summer Camp section: Services -> Culture Camps (http://www.inkas.or.kr) 2. Submit an application form on the page (Please indicate which program you are applying for (July or August) on Comments area) and upload one page of the adoption paper with your Korean name and the copy of your passport on "My-page"
? Application due date: We accept applications form from April 1st.
? Selections: Overseas Korean adoptees who are over 18 years of age or older will be selected. First come first served basis.
? Other Information ?Accommodation: Please check-in to the accommodation by fist day of the Summer Camp at the hotel (Your stay can be extended at a twin room by request, by paying 80,000 KRW per day to InKAS ?Pick-up service: InKAS volunteers will be waiting for you at Inchon international airport on the day of your arrival. Please provide your flight details, once you make a reservation ?Fees: Free room and board (two people per room) but airfare not included. For questions and applications: http://www.inkas.or.kr * Schedule is subject to change without notice
|
|
Movie: An American Rhapsody (see synopsis below) Three times a year, our adult adoptee Movie Night is open to other constellation members and the adoption community (March, July & November). Through the viewing and discussion of mainstream movies, the adoption experience is shared and normalized. Adoption Mosaic Movie Group seeks to create a collective space where the adoption constellation can learn from each other, build community, and contribute to enhancing the lives of other constellation members. Cost: $4-$10 sliding scale. Pre-Registration is required. Download application and additional information from the Adoption Mosaic website www.adoptionmosaic.org or email Silvia at info@adoptionmosaic.org
look forward to our discussion that will follow. Here is a write up from Amazon.com Teenagers have a difficult time in coping with their sense of identity and relationship with their family. This problem is increased two-fold for sixteen year old Suzanne. Left in Hungary as an infant while her parents and older sister escaped to America, Suzanne is attempting to come to terms with who she is and what she has in common with this family of strangers. Based on a true story, American Rhapsody explores the consequences of well meaning actions that alienate a child from its parents. Magrit and Peter are well meaning parents who leave Suzanne behind in order to escape from the harsh Stalinist regime. Taking an infant with them would cause more problems. So they plan their escape and make sure that Suzanne will follow. Alas, the best laid plans fall apart and it won't be until six years later that their child is reunited with them. Magrit finds that leaving that infant behind has resulted in far more deeper problems than anticipated. In this movie we see the guilt and sorrow of parents who have to leave their child. The resentment and dynamics of leaving one family to another is readily played out is this drama. You can understand Suzanne's pain and anger. You will sympathize with the mother burdened by guilt and is determined to protect this child. This is a remarkable story with great actors portraying those real life people who had to endure such agony. The story is not a "downer" but lends hope to a family's quest for freedom and a better life for their children. It also shows the mistakes that parents make in attempting to protect their children from the reality of growing up. Written by: Bonita L. Davis (Decatur, Georgia) I would also add that Suzanne (the daughter) returns to Hungry in her early teens to reconnect with her foster parents and her culture. |
|
“ From an Ocean of Tears to an Ocean of Love: A Birth Mothers Workshop” Dillon International proudly presents a one of a kind workshop focusing on the perspective of 2 birth mothers from South Korea. Both women recently placed their children for inter-country adoption through Eastern Social Welfare Society (ESWS), one of 4 placing agencies in Korea who has partnered with Dillon since 1972. The workshop will showcase their compelling story along with the voices of 2 Eastern Social Welfare Society staff members, an adoptee and an adoptive family who is part of a semi-open adoption through Dillon’s Korea program. In an effort to share this opportunity, workshops will be hosted in 2 locations. Tulsa, OK: July 25, 2009, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm at the Green Country Event Center. Admission is $10 per person. Dallas, TX: July 26, 2009, 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm at Dillon International’s Texas office. Admission is $15 per person. Please visit the following sites to register online for either workshop. http://www.dillonadopt.com Or http://www.dillonadopt.com. Mary Anne Mesko, BSW 918-749-4600, ext. 213 |
|
“ From an Ocean of Tears to an Ocean of Love: A Birth Mothers Workshop” Dillon International proudly presents a one of a kind workshop focusing on the perspective of 2 birth mothers from South Korea. Both women recently placed their children for inter-country adoption through Eastern Social Welfare Society (ESWS), one of 4 placing agencies in Korea who has partnered with Dillon since 1972. The workshop will showcase their compelling story along with the voices of 2 Eastern Social Welfare Society staff members, an adoptee and an adoptive family who is part of a semi-open adoption through Dillon’s Korea program. In an effort to share this opportunity, workshops will be hosted in 2 locations. Tulsa, OK: July 25, 2009, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm at the Green Country Event Center. Admission is $10 per person. Dallas, TX: July 26, 2009, 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm at Dillon International’s Texas office. Admission is $15 per person. Please visit the following sites to register online for either workshop. http://www.dillonadopt.com Or http://www.dillonadopt.com. Mary Anne Mesko, BSW 918-749-4600, ext. 213 |
|
Boston Korean Adoptees Summer BBQ!!! Sunday, July 26, 2009, 2pm-ish Location TBD Open to General Membership - Adoptees and Non-Adoptees Alike! Stay tuned for more details! |
|
The 11th Annual KAAN Conference, Extending the Family of Korean Adoption, will be held at KAAN’s primary project is an annual national conference in a different city each year. This annual coming together allows all attendees to feel part of a national adoption community. In fact conference attendees come from all over the United States, Canada, Asia, Europe and Australia. KAAN offers national support and guidance, but the KAAN Conference belongs to the community where it is held. Through the process of hosting a conference, it is hoped that the local organizations will be strengthened and the local connections among adoptive families, adult adoptees, Koreans, and Korean Americans will be enhanced. For nine years KAAN has supported community development through its conferences: KAAN Conferences have been held in Los Angeles, California; Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey; Seattle, Washington; Minneapolis, Minnesota; Arlington, Virginia; San Francisco, California; Detroit, Michigan; Seoul Korea; Boston, Massachusetts: and Chicago, Illinois. This year’s conference will be held in Denver Colorado. KAAN is entirely run by volunteers with no paid staff. All funds raised go to support the KAAN Conference. |
|
Start Time: Friday, July 31, 2009 at 2:00pm End Time: Sunday, August 2, 2009 at 5:00pm Location: Sogang University City/Town: Seoul, South Korea Phone: 023256585 Email: info@goal.or.kr |
|
Missionary Photography in Korea: Encountering the West Through Christianity
May 19 - August 14, 2009
Free and Open to the Public, but RSVP is requried To RSVP go to: http://www.koreasociety.rsvp3.com The arrival of the first Western missionaries in Korea in the late 19th century was a pivotal moment in the history of Christianity in Korea and the history of Korea as a whole. The missionaries established
new religious identities and stoked early culture clashes. They also documented their mission and the society around them with early cameras. Missionary Photography in Korea: Encountering the West
Through Christianity—the largest ever show of Korean missionary photographs in the U.S.—features rare images taken by missionaries in Korea between 1890 and 1940. For more information about the exhibit contact Heewon Kim at 212-759-7525, ext. 355 |
|
KAMP is a culture camp for adoptive families with Korean children 5-18. Recognizing that adoption is a family issue, KAMP seeks to provide an educational and social
experience not only for Korean adoptees, but also for their parents and siblings. Kamp 2009: August 5-9 Through a fun-filled camp format, school age Korean adoptees, and their siblings learn about Korean life, language, culture, history, songs, games, cooking, crafts, taekwondo, fan dancing, and pop culture to gain a basic understanding of their rich Korean heritage. Most importantly, KAMPers spend time with other young adults who share the unique challenge of growing up as a minority and as an adoptee in this country. There are many opportunities to address adoption and identity matters with these role models and older peers. While children attend KAMP classes, parents are involved in some of these same experiences through special adult sessions. Parent sessions include guest speakers, panel discussions and cooking classes. (Child-care is available as a co-op effort by parents for children too young to attend KAMP) The IIA board recruit yearly for college-aged Korean-American Adoptees and Native Koreans. These young adults provide a positive role model for children and parents. Counselors need to be at least 18 years or older. Opportunities are also available for High School Juniors and Seniors to apply as intern counselors. KAMP DETAILS The Annual KAMP/Retreat is held during August at the Riverview Conference Center, 319 North Division Street, Cedar Falls, Iowa. It is located in a quiet residential area with approximately 50 cabins available for families attending KAMP/RETREAT to rent. All cabins have running water and minimal bathroom facilities. There are also 28 camping spaces for RVs and tents with water and electricity hook-ups as well as some sites with sewer hook-ups. Shower and bathroom facilities are located next to the camping area. Riverview Conference Center has a swimming pool, basketball and volleyball courts, sports field, carpetball and hard surface paths for biking and rollerblading. Cabins are reserved through IIA but fees are paid directly to RCC upon arrival at KAMP/RETREAT. Truly the best way to experience KAMP/RETREAT is to stay on the grounds but there are motels near by to choose from. For more information and registration, please visit http://www.iiakampretreat.com. |
|
2009 InKAS Summer Camp
InKAS is holding a Summer Camp program for Korean adoptees to experience and learn Korean Culture.
It is our desire to aid in the understanding and experience of the true Korean culture during their visit. The program is mainly coordinated for overseas Korean adoptees to experience Korean cuisine, custom, culture and language via opportunities of direct participation and experiences.
InKAS Summer Camp is composed of several hands-on programs. There will be Korean cuisine cooking, Taekwondo, and other practical classes in several places in South Korea. After the classes, you will have an opportunity to experience the culture of young Korean people’s lives with young Korean adults.
? About the program - Korean culture Classes - Gathering with Korean young adults - Field Trip
? Program Details: Please indicate which program you are applying for. (July or August)
1. July Program (July 19th Sun to 25th, Sat)
Date Details Jul 19, Sun Check in/Welcoming Party Jul 20, Mon Go to South East Province 2:00-4:00: Korean culture activity 1 Jul 21, Tue 9:30-3:00: Korean culture activity 2 3:00-: Free time Jul 22, Wed 9:30-12:00: Korean culture activity 3 Cruse, Swimming Jul 23, Thu Go to Seoul Free Time Jul 24, Fri 9:30-3:00: City tour 5:00-6:30 : NANTA performance 7:00: Farewell Party Jul 25, Sat Check out
2. August Program (August 23rd Sun to 28th, Sat)
Date Details Aug 23, Sun Check in/Welcoming Party Aug 24, Mon Go to South West Province 2:00-4:00: Korean culture activity 1 Aug 25, Tue 9:30-3:00: Korean culture activity 2 3:00-: Free time Aug 26, Wed 9:30-12:00: Korean culture activity 3 Cruse, Swimming Aug 27, Thu Go to Seoul Free Time Aug 28, Fri 9:30-3:00: City tour 5:00-6:30 : NANTA performance 7:00: Farewell Party Aug 29, Sat Check out
? How to apply 1. Sign-up through the InKAS website and go to the Summer Camp section: Services -> Culture Camps (http://www.inkas.or.kr) 2. Submit an application form on the page (Please indicate which program you are applying for (July or August) on Comments area) and upload one page of the adoption paper with your Korean name and the copy of your passport on "My-page"
? Application due date: We accept applications form from April 1st.
? Selections: Overseas Korean adoptees who are over 18 years of age or older will be selected. First come first served basis.
? Other Information ?Accommodation: Please check-in to the accommodation by fist day of the Summer Camp at the hotel (Your stay can be extended at a twin room by request, by paying 80,000 KRW per day to InKAS ?Pick-up service: InKAS volunteers will be waiting for you at Inchon international airport on the day of your arrival. Please provide your flight details, once you make a reservation ?Fees: Free room and board (two people per room) but airfare not included. For questions and applications: http://www.inkas.or.kr * Schedule is subject to change without notice
|
|
Mark your calendars for Saturday September 5th, from noon to ?
For all members and their friends and relatives. We'll supply hot dogs, hamburgers, ribs, chips and dips and soda etc and if you want to bring pot luck.... well it will be appreciated. Rain or shine, big lawn, big screened porch, big inside Fun, comeraderie, peace and understanding and perhaps silliness. Bring your guitars Click here for more info and driving instructions. RSVP please by August 28 :-) |
|
Camp Burgess, Sandwich, Cape Cod, MA Register now for our eighth annual weekend of strengthening and celebrating our Asian community at Camp Burgess, a beautiful retreat center in the pinewoods of Cape Cod. Participate in cultural activities such as dance, arts and crafts, evening Moon Festival and much more! Families can choose from a variety of events for various age groups. Enjoy traditional camp activities such as swimming, canoeing, high ropes course, rock wall climbing, archery and an evening campfire. Arrival time: Friday 5:00 PM. Departure time: Sunday 4:00 PM. Cost includes two nights camp style lodging, 6 meals, camp activities and special programs. Fees are $175 per person. Children under 2 free. IMPORTANT: Camp has filled to capacity the past few years. Pre-Register now and save your family's space with a $50 non-refundable deposit (balance due August 1, 2009). Full promotion of the camp will begin next week. You are receiving advanced notice because you have attended camp, or expressed interest in camp. Asian Camp is an entirely volunteer effort. The camp operates at a deficit each year -- attendance fees do not cover the entire cost of the camp, food, website, speakers and performers. Major fundraising is done each year to make up the difference. Please consider becoming a business or individual sponsor of the Asian Camp. In return, you'll receive promotion in emails, on the Camp website, and in Camp materials. Sponsorship is available at a Platinum Level of $250+, Gold $100+, and Silver $50. Asian Culture Society of Cape Cod 21 Dundee Circle Harwich, MA 02645 Questions? Curiosities? Please email Jen Huckman emc@cape.com |
|
KAAN's MISSION is: To Support Networking And Build Understanding Among Adoptees,
Adoptive Families, Koreans And Korean Americans. Visit KAAN's website at http://www.kaanet.com/ . KAAN does not endorse or take responsibility for the opinions or programs presented in the newsletter. Please send us information about events in your area, articles, personal requests etc. so that we may share them with others. Send information about events, interesting articles or websites, personal requests and questions, as well as other items of interest to us at mailto:kaanet@aol.com |