Defining a family: one mom’s adoption...
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May 2009 Defining a family: one mom’s adoption story By Lynn Danzker, Adoption Liasion I dreamed of being a mom as far back as I can remember. As my 42nd birthday approached, I found myself single, childless, with no prospects for marriage and distraught. With all of my success, the ache in my heart to be a mom just wouldn’t go away. You see, I grew up in a tradi- tional family. Dad worked, mom stayed at home to raise me and my brother. We lived in a modest home with a white fence and a dog. That was my definition of family and the only one I could imagine for myself. After a great deal of soul searching and with the support of three extraordinary friends I embarked on the journey of single motherhood. Plan A was In-Vitrofertilization. Afterall, I wanted my baby to have at least part of my DNA. But I learned that I had a 1% chance of conceiving, with an equal percentage of having a healthy baby. Taking this journey alone, was just too risky. Plan B was adoption and something I would never, never have consid- ered in the past. But my desire to be a mother outweighed everything. I chose international adoption because if offered a guarantee that I would get a baby. I had heard too many domestic adoption stories in which the birthmother had changed her mind. I chose Russia because they allow single women to adopt (not all countries do), you are able to choose the gender and Russian is my ancestry. The process for an international adoption is daunting. A 14-page appli- cation questioning everything about your family, your childhood, how you will support and raise the child, who will be the male role model, how you would care for the child, etc. Documents proving your citizenship, income, place of residence, letters from employers, accountants, doctors, FBI background checks and references from friends and family, and on and on. Interviews with a social worker who is assigned to your “case” and a list of seminars you must participate in. Medical exams, psychological tests and of course, money, lots of money. I chose an International Adoption Agency that had 10 years of experi- ence with Russian Adoptions and had worked with single women. When the application arrived, I decided to spend a long weekend at my vacation home in Vermont to complete it. I would need a clear head. I woke up to a picture perfect ski day in Vermont and decided to go skiing for a few hours - the application would have to wait until later. That morning a handsome, kind, single man asked if I would join him on the chair lift. Who would have known, that invitation would change the course of my life! Joe and I were engaged 10 months later on the top of that very moun- tain in Vermont. We brought our 21 month old son, Cole, home from Russia eight months later. Cole is now 4 years old and Joe and I will be celebrat- ing our 2 nd wedding anniversary next week. So how do I define a family? In my case, the definition and the journey are not what I had imagined, but the experience and the love the three of us share are more than I could have ever hoped for. “Three paths, two continents, one love - three hearts now beat as one...” If you are thinking about adoption or have questions contact Lynn at [email protected].
Transcript of Defining a family: one mom’s adoption...
May 2009
Defining a family: one mom’s adoption storyBy Lynn Danzker, Adoption Liasion
I dreamed of being a mom as far back as I can remember. As my 42nd birthday approached, I found myself single, childless, with no prospects for marriage and distraught. With all of my success, the ache in my
heart to be a mom just wouldn’t go away. You see, I grew up in a tradi-tional family. Dad worked, mom stayed at home to raise me and my brother. We lived in a modest home with a white fence and a dog. That was my definition of family and the only one I could imagine for myself.
After a great deal of soul searching and with the support of three extraordinary friends I embarked on the journey of single motherhood. Plan A was In-Vitrofertilization. Afterall, I wanted my baby to have at least part of my DNA. But I learned that I had a 1% chance of conceiving, with an equal percentage of having a healthy baby. Taking this journey alone, was just too risky.
Plan B was adoption and something I would never, never have consid-ered in the past. But my desire to be a mother outweighed everything. I chose international adoption because if offered a guarantee that I would get a baby. I had heard too many domestic adoption stories in which the birthmother had changed her mind. I chose Russia because they allow single women to adopt (not all countries do), you are able to choose the gender and Russian is my ancestry.
The process for an international adoption is daunting. A 14-page appli-cation questioning everything about your family, your childhood, how you will support and raise the child, who will be the male role model, how you would care for the child, etc. Documents proving your citizenship, income, place of residence, letters from employers, accountants, doctors, FBI background checks and references from friends and family, and on and on. Interviews with a social worker who is assigned to your “case” and a list of seminars you must participate in. Medical exams, psychological tests and of course, money, lots of money.
I chose an International Adoption Agency that had 10 years of experi-ence with Russian Adoptions and had worked with single women. When the application arrived, I decided to spend a long weekend at my vacation home in Vermont to complete it. I would need a clear head. I woke up to
a picture perfect ski day in Vermont and decided to go skiing for a few hours - the application would have to wait until later. That morning a handsome, kind, single man asked if I would join him on the chair lift. Who would have known, that invitation would change the course of my life!
Joe and I were engaged 10 months later on the top of that very moun-tain in Vermont. We brought our 21 month old son, Cole, home from Russia eight months later. Cole is now 4 years old and Joe and I will be celebrat-ing our 2nd wedding anniversary next week.
So how do I define a family? In my case, the definition and the journey are not what I had imagined, but the experience and the love the three of us share are more than I could have ever hoped for.
“Three paths, two continents, one love - three hearts now beat as one...”
If you are thinking about adoption or have questions contact Lynn at [email protected].
Special kids enjoy a special day of reading
Volunteers from service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega at Stevens Institute of Technology hosted a reading event for kids with a focus on children with special
needs at Symposia Book Store recently.Alpha Phi Omega members led a reading and craft
based on the book A House for Hermit Crab by Eric Carle. The book tells the tale of a hermit crab who outgrows his shell and makes new friends each time he has to find a new home - and decorate it! Kids helped decorate the shell as the story unfolds and the crab grows over the course of a year.
The event is designed to bring kids together and was organized by APO member, Kendra Appleheimer, the sister of a young woman with Down syndrome.
“The story is an interactive story and is good for kids with or without a disability,” says Appleheimer. “And it’s important for kids to interact together.”
Appleheimer helped create inclusionary programs such as a prom and crafts class at the high-school in Brick, N.J. that she and her sister attended. “Inclusion in my high school really helped change the school. And including kids together like this at a younger age is really helpful for kids to appreciate differences.”
Publishers provided copies of Carle books for all the kids that participated in the literacy and community program. A special thanks to Simon & Schuster’s Children Publishing for providing copies of A House for Hermit Crab and to Penguin for copies of The Very Hungry Caterpillar.
HFA MAY 20092
Dozens of children, eggs, raindrops and cupcakes fell into Columbus Park for the annual HFA Egg Hunt the day before Easter.
Rain did not dampen the spirits of those who attended in search of eggs, crafts, fun and sweets - and a chance to win one of numerous bicycles that were donated by Hudson County Freeholder Anthony Romano, Robert Menendez, US State Senator, Brian P. Stack, State Senator, Ruben Ramos, Assemblyman, Caridad Rodriquez, Assemblywoman, and Thomas Degise, County Executive.
Another highlight of the day: a giant Easter Bunny cake created by Carlo’s Bake Shop. Master baker Buddy Valastro created an extraordinary vanilla cake filled with chocolate and decorated with grass, a chocolate basket, 100 eggs, green fondant and pound cake bunny that
stood about a foot tall. The cake weighed more than 300 pounds, and took more than a day to make.
“Anything for the community,” says Valastro, who appears in a new TLC reality show Cake Boss. The show chronicles the behind-the-scenes operations of Carlo’s Bake Shop where he works with his mother, four older sisters and three brothers-in-law.
The TLC crew was on hand at the Egg Hunt to film an episode for the Cake Boss series that will run in May. Check www.carlosbakery.com for the actual date that will feature the Egg Hunt and many HFA members.
Photographer Marie Papp was also on hand to capture the event. To see more photos, and purchase ones you like, go to www.mariepapp.com. Click on INFO then CLIENT ACCESS. Type in “Easter” as the password.
By Theresa Howard
Kids find giant bunny at Egg Hunt
HFA MAY 20093
Visit www.littledetectives.net for class times, locations and more information or call
Jim Butler at 201-452-0317
FREE Trial ClassCall now to reserve your spot!
Computer class designed for
kids ages 3-7
School’s Out for Summer…Now What? Summer is nearly here and with it the question: what should we do this summer? The
Hoboken Family Alliance has combed local and area resources to provide a comprehensive list of things for your child to do this summer. Compiled by Lexi Coen.
All Saints Summer Enrichment707 Washington StreetHoboken, N.J.
Age: First grade through sixth grade (for the 2009/2010 school year)Cost: Call for registration form and pricing. Before-care and after-care available.Dates & Times: June 10 to June 26, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The All Saints Summer Enrichment program includes music, art, drama and creative writing. Students may attend for one or two weeks. This year’s Native American theme is sure to be a hit, and several exciting trips have already been planned. Brochures mail at the end of May.
Contact: Kacy Lissenden, (201) 792-0736www.allsaintsdayschool.org
Be LingualHoboken, N.J.
Age: 3 to 7Cost: Varies per programDates & Times: August 17 to August 28, two hours per day
Summer Camp is a two-week program where campers study Spanish through song, dance, the-ater, arts and crafts with a new theme each week. Be Lingual is flexible and parents can pick between two days, three days, one week or two week ses-sions.
Contact: Isabelle Bonneau, (917) 535-6995 or [email protected]
Art Nest: Art Therapy Studio and Gallery 720 Monroe Street, Studio E505Hoboken, N.J.
Age: 5 to 11Cost: Starting at $180 (includes art supplies, instruction, and a daily healthy snack.) Sibling rates available.Dates & Times: Call for details
Young artists spend the week working with various art mediums and techniques in a creative space free of judgment and criticism. Themes include All About Paint, 3-D Creations, Making Murals, Making Magic, Art Around the World, Printmaking/Wearable Art and Comic Creations.
Contact: (646) 688-5478 or [email protected]
Boys and Girls Club of Hoboken123 Jefferson StreetHoboken, N.J.
Age: 5 to 14Cost: Call for detailsDates & Times: Young Explorers (5 to 9), June 29 to September 4, 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Young Enterprisers (10 to 14), June 29 to August 14, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The Boys and Girls Club of Hoboken offers youth a place to have fun, learn, and make new friends while enjoying daily activities. The staff of trained professionals will help your child develop positive self-image, social skills, cultural awareness, cre-ativity, embrace technology, and fitness. Programs include character & leadership, career development, health and life skills, the arts, sports, fitness and recreation.
Contact: (201) 963-6443 www.bgchc.org
Camp Liberty 232 Morris Pesin Drive (Liberty State Park)Jersey City, N.J.
Age: 6 to 12Cost: Starting at $240 per two-week session for Jersey City residents and $280 for out of town resi-dents. Before care and after care is available for an additional cost.Dates & Times: June 30 to August 22. 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Each week, children of varying ethnicities from dif-ferent Jersey City neighborhoods join in a coopera-tive effort to develop respect for the traditions of other ethnic groups and a better understanding of the world’s many cultures. Camp Liberty has its own softball field, playground, multi-purpose field, bas-ketball courts, handball courts, private in-ground pool, restrooms and changing areas, first aid station and a large covered pavilion area complete with a stage and tables for lunch, art, and rainy day activi-ties.
Contact: Carlos Ponton, (201) 432-1912 or [email protected] www.camplibertynj.org
Deerkill Day CampSuffern, N.Y.
Age: 3 to 14Cost: Starting at $400 per week. Prices vary on length of stay and age of camperDates & Times: Call for details
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Deerkill Day Camp is located on a wooded 15-acre site and brings a community feel to the summer camp experience. The diverse program includes professional swim instruction in large heated pools, athletics, arts and crafts, ceramics, wood-working, dance, theater, and digital photography, karate, nature and activities.
Deerkill offers daily transportation on air-con-ditioned buses, staffed with professional drivers and bus counselors with several Hoboken pick-ups: in front of the Path Station, the Hudson Tea Building, 9th and Clinton & at Prime Time Early Learning Center, 414 Hudson Street.
The directors are on the campgrounds every-day and accessible by phone; there is no large administrative staff and all the individual group leaders are adults.
Contact: (845) 354-1466www.deerkilldaycamp.com
Hoboken Aardvarks/Music for AardvarksHoboken, Jersey City, Englewood
Age: 3 months to 5Cost: Call for detailsDates & Times: July 13 to August 21
Music for Aardvarks is an interactive, refreshing alternative to the traditional music class for kids. With influences of rock, blues, ballads, folk, jazz and pop, Aardvark songs uniquely reflect and cel-ebrate the lives of children growing up today. The music is innovative, intelligent, and irresistibly appealing to both kids and their grownups. Our informal, spirited classes incorporate song, dance, musical storytelling, instrumental jam sessions and more. An adult must attend with child.
Contact: Adam Roberts, (917) 400-4524 or [email protected]
Hoboken Dance Academy230 Willow AvenueHoboken, N.J.
Age: Varies for each classCost: Varies per programDates & Times: July 6 to August 27
Hoboken Dance Academy offers a dance educa-tion to the Hudson County community. Classes include Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Modern, Tap and Creative Dance. Pointe class is by invitation only or audition. Please contact the studio to set up an audition appointment.
Contact: Michelle Donelson Renda, (201) 963-2001 or [email protected]
Hoboken-North Hudson YMCA1301 Washington StreetHoboken
Age: 6 months to Eighth gradeCost, Dates & Times: Varies per program
Preschool classes $50 to $75 per class, per child. Child must be Hoboken YMCA member.Summer session I: June 29 to July 31 Summer session II: August 3 to August 28 Programs include: Preschool swim (6 months to 5); Preschool art (2 to 5); Preschool dance (2 to 5); Preschool gym (2 to 5)
Summer Camp (Kindergarten to Eighth)$430 for each two-week session. YMCA accepts Urban League vouchers and has a scholarship assistance program.Dates are: June 29 to August 28YMCA offers family membership, youth and teen memberships. All membership categories have time to use the pool and gym.
Contact: (201) 963-4100 ext. 11 or [email protected] and/or [email protected]
Hudson Dance and Movement80 Hudson StreetHoboken
Age: 2 to 12Cost: Varies per programDates & Times: Call for details
Summer Arts Camp (3 to 7)June 22 to August 13, Monday to Thursday, 9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.
Students will be introduced to a variety of cultural activities including dance, drama, storytelling, music and arts and crafts. Different themes are explored each week. Flexible Attendance. Snack break included every day.
Preschool Arts Camp (2 to 3)Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
This eight week camp will prepare your toddler for preschool and help to develop their social skills as well as rhythmic, motor and sensory skills. They will enjoy a journey through dance, music, art and story telling. A healthy snack is provided.
Broadway Bound (8 to 12)June 22 to July 16, Monday to Wednesday, 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
This four-week camp concentrates on intensive Broadway style dance and voice training. Technique classes include Ballet, Tap and Jazz. Each day your child will receive voice and musical theater instruc-tion designed to ready them for auditions and per-forming. In addition, instructors and artists will speak about what to expect at auditions, perform-ing, and answer any dance and performance related questions your child may have. The Broadway inten-sive summer camp leads into our school year musi-cal theater program.
Contact: Bethany Marc-Aurele or Megan Hebert, (201) 683-4350 or [email protected]
NEW!
ENROLL NOW!
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Kaplan PreSchool Camp115 Park AvenueHoboken
Age: 2 to 6 (Child must be 2 by December 31, 2008)Cost: Varies per programDates & Times: June 29 to August 7, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. or 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Early drop off available at 8:00 a.m. for an additional fee.
Join the Kaplan excitement in a safe, loving environ-ment with air-conditioned rooms and a spacious yard. Activities include art, music, movement, outside water play with sprinklers and most importantly hav-ing fun with friends. There is a special program for those entering kindergarten, which include group sports, weekly themes and field trips.
In addition, Kaplan offers 2’s and Toddler classes (an adult must remain with the child) on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings from 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Also Toddler Fridays will be offered from 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Contact: Rachelle Grossman, (201) 653-8666 or [email protected] www.hobokensynagogue.org
Lakeview Day Camp East Brunswick
Age: Varies per programCost: Varies per programDates & Times:
Lakeview Day Camp is a family owned, full service day camp which provides lunch, snack and transpor-tation. Lakeview provides options like swimming twice a day with daily professional instruction, sports, music, photography, dance, gymnastics, boat-ing, ropes courses, rock walls, art, ceramics, theater, science, cooking and more. Each activity is led by a trained professional and counselors are with them all day to help guide them through these experiences.
Contact: Randy, (732) 821-8933www.lakeviewdaycamp.com
The Little Gym420 Grand Street, Old Colony SquareJersey City
Age: 3 to 8Cost: $60 and upDates & Times: June 15 to August 28, Monday, Wednesday and Friday 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.; Tuesday, Thursday 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
The specially developed camp curriculum is designed around themes such as Dinosaurs & Dragons or Big Top Bonanza and combines physical fitness, gym-nastics and imaginative play with arts and crafts and exciting special events. It’s the perfect break for kids and parents during the long summer months. Camps are available to both The Little Gym members and non-members.
Contact: (201) 433-1711 or [email protected]
Mandarin TogetherHoboken
Age: Call for detailsCost: Call for detailsDates & Times: July 1 to August 19, Wednesday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Summer immersion program taught by native speak-ers. The class is filled with fun, activities and differ-ent topics each week. Program includes storytime, art and crafts, writing, movies, singing, computers, activities, indoor and outdoor playtime and neighbor-hood tours. A Mandarin assessment may be necessary to successfully place your child in the appropriate class.
Contact: (201) 876-0131 or [email protected]
M Avery Designs 266 7th Street Hoboken
Age: 9 to 15Cost: Varies per programDates & Times: Call for details
Students focus on learning sewing machine usage, basic sewing skills and today’s basic fashion design techniques. Each two-hour class is project oriented and students leave with their finished wearable projects after participating in a photo shoot and runway show. Projects include circle scarf, head wrap, hobo bag and/or purse, belt, wrap skirt and summer dress.
Contact: Megan Avery, (201) 876-1198 or [email protected] www.maverydesigns.com
Monroe Street Movement Center720 Monroe Street, C504Hoboken
Age: Varies per programCost: Varies per program
Summer Arts Camp (3 and up)June 16 to August 29
Half-day/whole day focuses on and combines cre-ative movement, dance, yoga, theater, music, writ-ing, storytelling, drawing, painting, and sculpture. The program provides students with a well-rounded experience and exposure to the arts while nurturing individual confidence and expression. Children may be enrolled in all or parts of the program in any combination of days. Early drop-off and late pick-up is available for an additional fee.
Summer Karate Camp (3 and up)July 8 to August 26 Cost: $104
Parent/Child Movement, Music & Language (Crawlers to 3)June 17 to August 28 Cost: $180; $100 for the second child
Contact: (201) 222-8033 www.movementspace.com
www.PromptMD.com • 201-222-8411
Board Certified Physicians at all times
Quality Healthcare When You Need It!
309 First Street Hoboken, NJ 07030
Open 7 days a weekNo Appointment Necessary
HFA MAY 20096
New Jersey Institute of Technology Newark
Age: Post-fourth grade to post eleventh gradeCost: Varies per programDates & Times: Call for details
The Early College Preparation Programs at NJIT’s Center for Pre-College Programs offers a series of summer programs for academically talented stu-dents. The programs are designed to encourage students to pursue and successfully complete edu-cation in science, mathematics, engineering and technological fields.
Contact: (973) 596-3550 OR (973) 596-6445. www.njit.edu/precollege to download application.
Prime Time Learning404 Hudson Street Hoboken
Age: up to 10 Cost: Varies per programDates & Times: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Before and after care is available for an additional cost.
Campers enjoy a combination of stimulating new activities focused on socialization, specific instruc-tion by trained professionals and fun. Activities include swimming, sprinklers, soccer, kickball, vol-leyball, arts and crafts, music and talent shows, as well as weekly field trips and themed shows.
Contact: Nicole (201) 420-7644www.primetimeschools.com
The Soccer Learning Center at Golden Door Charter School180 9th Street at Marin Blvd.Jersey City
Age: 4 to 9Cost: Call for detailsDates & Times: June 29 to August 7, Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
USSF nationally licensed coach Alex Lalaoui pro-vides a European approach to soccer instruction allowing students to learn by doing, in a small, team-centric environment. Soccer experience not needed. Activities focus upon fitness, skill building, technical and tactical abilities, team play, sports-manship and more. Their new indoor, air conditioned summer recreation program will offer children between a chance to increase their knowledge of soccer in a structured, professionally run, and action-packed full day. Class size is extremely lim-ited. Early registration is suggested.
Contact: Alex Lalaoui, (201) 656-1156 or [email protected] www.soccerlearningcenter.com
Stevens Cooperative School Jersey City and Hoboken
Age: Pre-K to Fifth gradeCost: $400 per week. Before and after care is available at select locations. Call for details.Dates & Times: June 29 to August 14
Students from all over Hudson County take part in our Newport Summer Day Camp (K – 4th grade) in Jersey City and our River Street Day Camp (PreK – K) in Hoboken. Rooted in the progressive philosophy of Stevens, the camp offers many indoor and out-door activities including swimming, tennis, recre-ation, yoga, art and music.
Third to fifth graders can participate in our Geek Week Camps in Computers and Science which take place at our brand new Science and Media Lab at 301 Bloomfield Street in Hoboken. Geek Week classes include Computer Animation, Digital Photography, Science Detectives, Science Potions.
Contact: [email protected] www.stevenscoop.org
Stevens Institute of Technology Sports Camp Castle Point Hoboken, N.J.
Boys & Girls Basketball Camp (5 to 14)Cost: $280 (Early sign-up, before May 15, $240, must be paid in full)Session I: June 22 to June 25, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.; Session II: June 29 to July 2, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.Contact: Robert Hurley, (201) 216-5690
Boys & Girls Tennis Camp (5 and up)Cost: $300 for one session or $550 for both ses-sions (Early sign-up, before June 1, $225 and $550, must be paid in full) Early drop off and late pick up available for an additional fee.Session I: August 3 to August 6, 9:00 a.m. 3:00 p.m.; Session II: August 10 to August 13, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.Contact: Steve Gachko, (201) 216-5694
Boys & Girls Soccer, (5 to 15)Session I: July 13 to July 17, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.; Session II: July 20 to July 24, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Contact: Tim O’Donohue, (201) 216-5244
Youth Field Hockey CampCost: $275 (Register before July 1 includes stick and the ball.)July 27 to July 30Contact: Jessica Reed, Head Field Hockey Coach
Coed Aquatics and Swim Camp (5 to 12)Cost: $275 (includes lunch)Session I: July 20 to July 23, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.; Session II: July 27 to July 30, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00p.m.Contact: Trevor Miele
Girls Volleyball Camp, (13 and up)Cost: $160 and upJuly 13 to 17, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Contact: J.J. O’Connell
HFA MAY 20097
Schaefer Center Wrestling Room and ATC Wrestling Camps (12 to 18)The “Duck” Intensive Training Camp, July 5 to July 11, Resident Only $695Technique Camp, July 5 to July 8, Resident $395 or Commuter $295Competition Camp, July 8 to July 11, Resident $395 or Commuter $295
All camps include meals, dorm, camp t-shirt and championship training log for wrestling if registered by July 15
Contact: Head Coach Mike Clayton, (862) 754-2743
SummerStage 2009 The Hudson School, 601 Park Avenue Monroe Arts, 720 Monroe StreetHoboken
Age: Varies per programCost: $175 per weekDates & Times: June 29 to July 17
Rhythm MakersPre-K & Kindergarten (as of Sept 2009); 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.(Must be four years old by the start of the session and toilet trained.)
Our Pre-Kindergarten & Kindergarten program pro-vides dance, art, creative drama, singing time and organized outdoor play. Each Friday, during the last half hour, they will share their accomplishments with their family and friends. Children bring their own snack.
Thoroughly Modern Millie Jr.First and Second Grade (as of Sept. 2009)9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Third to Ninth grade (as of Sept. 2009)9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Each day all participants will enjoy classes in the-ater games, art,voice, acting and dance with trained professionals and working artists. There are oppor-tunities to work on costumes, set pieces and pro-grams. Snack and “Musical Movie” lunch are part of the day as well. First and second grades will have supervised outdoor playtime, weather permitting. Children bring their own snack, lunch and tap shoes.
Contact: (646) 339-8485 www.hobokenchildrenstheater.com
Super Soccer StarsHoboken
Age: 2 and upCost: Rates start at $75 for a 3-class pack. Other packages are available. Unlimited class pass costs $595.Dates & Times: June 15 to September 3, 7 days a week
This unique flexible-schedule summer program allows you to attend classes whenever you choose. Simply purchase a Class Pass (multiple sizes avail-able) and show up when it is convenient to your schedule for age-appropriate classes. Siblings may share passes (with the exception of the Unlimited
Pass). You may purchase an unlimited number of Passes throughout the summer from June 15 to September 3.
Contact: Betsy, (212) 877-7171 or [email protected]
TADA! Youth Theater 15 West 28th StreetNew York (NY)
Age: 8 to 18Cost: Varies per programDates & Times: Call for details
TADA! Youth Theater provides young people of differ-ent backgrounds the opportunity to explore and perform theater together in an educational, support-ive and professional environment, while developing self-esteem, teamwork, and positive communication skills. Professional theater artists direct scenes and musical numbers from TADA!s original musicals and Broadway shows. Each week features a unique theme, different teachers and new musical numbers.
Contact: (212) 252-1619www.tadatheater.com/campthemes.asp
The City of Hoboken Division of RecreationAge: 5 and upCost: Varies per programDates & Times: Call for details
Karate Camp, Music Enrichment Program, Skateboarding Clinic, Basketball Clinic, Soccer Clinic, Girls Softball Camp, Gymnastics Camp, Baseball Camp and Volleyball. Activities will take place at various gymnasiums and parks throughout the City from June through August. Registration begins in early June. When you register your child, please bring a copy of their birth certifi-cate and proof of residency (i.e. rent receipt, gas bill, etc.) Open to Hoboken residents only on a first come-first serve basis. Some programs may require a registration fee.
Contact: (201) 420-2094www.recreationathobokennj.org
The City of Hoboken Division Cultural AffairsAge: All AgesCost: Varies per programDates & Times: Call for details
Art in the Park, Tango at Pier A Park, Kiddiepolozza, Kayaking at Maxwell Place Park, Fitness in Park, Movies Under the Stars, Shakespeare in the Park, Family Fun Nights at Shipyard Park, Summer Enchanted Evenings Concert Series at Sinatra Park and Theater in the Park.
Contact: Geri Fallo, (201) 420-2207 or [email protected]
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HFA MAY 20098
Not sure what would be a good gift for the great Mom?
Take a look at the exclusive offers for HFA members by some of our advertisers. They came up with these ideas and offers just for you. They say thoughtful and meaningful with just a click of the mouse or a phone call. Happy Shopping and Happy Mother’s Day.
Bella BelliesMama loves her baby but she may not love her maternal body. Enjoy a chance to relax, re-energize, restore and regain confidence with your own body.
Moms get $10.00 off of any group exercise class with Bella Bellies for Hoboken Family Alliance Members. Choose from: Prenatal Pilates & Yoga, Stroller Moves and Momilates. Offer expires May 31.Contact: Annie Martens at 201. 253.0426 or go to www.bellabelliesstudio.com
Hartshorn PortraitureMake Mother’s day one she’ll remember with a Cityscape photo shoot with Mac Hartshorn. She can bring her special guests (you and the kids!) to Pier A for a fun filled photo session. Later she will choose her favorite portrait to be mounted in a handmade Italian Photo Frame.
Your Gift Certificate will be beautifully boxed, tied with raffia and presented in a gift bag with tissue. Price is $395 (Brochure value of $500.00) and includes a 30 minute shoot with renowned
photographer Mac Hartshorn plus 1 5x7 print mounted in an Italian Handmade Photo frame and 8 4x6 prints of the same image to share. Sessions will take place Thursday May 14th and Friday 15th at Pier A between 7.00am - 10am and 4pm- 6.30pm.
Book by May 8th to take part is this event designed exclusively for HFA members. Contact: Call 201.610.1199 or stop by the studio at 720 Monroe Street, Studio E428.
Mimosa DigitalA picture may say a thousand words but a gallery wrapped canvas will leave her speechless. Get Mom that beautiful scenic shot from the beach or from your favorite romantic spot made into a gallery style canvas.
Get 25% off a gallery wrapped canvas print of 16x20 or larger. Plan ahead and order in time for Mother’s Day - turnaround time is three to five days. Offer expires Contact: Jason Jaslow at 201.222.1103 or [email protected]
Marie Papp PhotographyPhotos in a natural setting could make the perfect gift for Mom. Give Mom a chance to glow in motherhood with a portrait session with Marie Papp, known for capturing subjects in the best of their natural environment.
The first 15 HFA members that book a portrait session prior to May 22 will receive a $150 print order credit. *offer not to be combined with any other discounts or promotions.Contact: Marie Papp at 201.659.1978 or visit www.mariepapp.com
Paper LadyPersonalized stationery for her - whether she writes notes to say hello or thank you. Mom will appreciate a collection of cards with her style and personality.
Receive 25% off all personalized stationery through May 31. Contact: Diana Weinstein at 917.842.2873 or go to www.paper-lady.com
Would you like some Tea? Baskets of Distinction invites you to a tea-rrific Mama’s Day Tea on Saturday, May 9 from Noon to 5 PM. Bring your favorite teacup and we’ll fit it with a delicious brew, especially to celebrate you.
Relax, enjoy some pampering mama time. Sip Earth Mama Angel Baby’s USDA Certified 100% Organic brewed tea or tea-infused mocktails (and take tea samples home!).
Enter to win an adorable gift basket packed with safe, effective, luxurious Earth Mama Angel Baby products worth over $125. Bring a friend and let’s Tea Party! Contact: Baskets of Distinction 1102 Washington St, 201.656.5427 or email info@thebasketsofdistinction
HFA MAY 20099
Traffic calming Public Officials must aggressively pursue State sources of funding for traffic calming and safety. We expect the following:
annual pedestrian safety grant that Hoboken receives from the NJ Division of Highway Traffic Safety, to ensure that funds are being used most effectively. Programs must be aggressively revised if they are not meeting the direct needs of greater traffic safety in Hoboken.
pedestrian safety. Sources of funding include New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) Local Aid and “Safe Routes to School,” which, in 2008, granted $300k to Bayonne, $250k to Jersey City, $300k to West New York, and $0 to Hoboken.
Public Officials must implement without delay free and low-cost traffic calming and safety including
representing at least 30% of the property owners on that block
Traffic law enforcement
The Hoboken Police Department must have daily assignment of police officers to traffic enforcement duties. Additional officers should be assigned until the City can prove that enforcement is acting as a deterrent to dangerous driver behavior.
New Development Any new development that requires a zoning variance or adds additional density to the City must be required to give back to the city in the form of an infrastructure improvement proportionate to the added density.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Public Officials must support the recommendations of the official Public Safety Director and the Hoboken Police Department which seek to prevent damage and injury to Hoboken residents and property. The City must pass the costs – both the costs of policing and clean-up as well as the costs of losing our City for the day – onto the bars, restaurants, liquor & grocery stores, and restaurants that benefit from the day.
HFA’s expectations for City Government
HFA to Mayoral and City Council: hear our concerns
On May 12 Hoboken residents will vote for a new mayor and three city council representatives. Hopefully, you have been able to read can-didate profiles or attend a forum to learn more about those running for office. Up for Mayor are Peter Cammarano, Beth Mason, Ryn Melberg (independent), Frank Orsini (independent) and Tom Vincent (independent) and Dawn Zimmer. Council candidates are: Chris Carbine (inde-
pendent Timothy Occhipiniti (independent) and Patrica Waiters (independent) facing off against Cammarano’s council slate: Angel Alicia; Mike Novak and Frances Rhodes-Kearns; Mason’s slate: Vincent Addeo, Raul Morales II and Anthony Pasquale and Zimmer’s slate: Ravi Bhalla; Carol Marsh and David Mello.If you haven’t reviewed the candidates and their positions visit hobokenreporter.com. Polls are open 6 AM to 8 PM.
As a community organization we would like to let the next mayor and council people know of those concerns that are of most importance to the Hoboken Family Alliance and its members. We urge our members to vote and we urge the next administration in City Hall to take a look at our concerns and address them knowing that we have a pool of concerns citizens who would be willing to facilitate and help administer change in any way possible. If you are interested in assisting in any way please email Laura Burkhart at [email protected]
SUNSUNDAYDAY
PIER APIER A
All Saints CDSC & the Hoboken Harriers Running Club
MAY 17thMAY 17thRegistration available online at:
www.hoha.net
ANKLE AND FOOT SPECIALISTSDrs. Azzolini and Guyen59 14th St., Hoboken, NJ
201 222-5200www.njfootcare.com
Hoboken, NJ
For information call:
792-3563 Ext. 14
HOBOKEN GOLF125 Grand Street, Hoboken, NJ
FLEET FEET SPORTS604 Washington Street, Hoboken, NJ
Race Applications and Registrationalso available at:
Race Applications and Registrationalso available at:
For the Jubilee Family Life Center
1 Mile Fun Run:1 Mile Fun Run: 9:30am9:30am
5 Mile Run: 5 Mile Run: 10:00am10:00am
MAY 17thMAY 17th
RUNN BBEETTWWWEEEEENN TTTHHHEE LIINNEEESSNE
HFA MAY 2009Y10
Kids First sweeps Board of Education
Theresa Minutillo, Ruth McAllister and MaureenSullivan were sworn in Tuesday April 28 as thethree new Board of Education Trustees. The
women swept the Board of Education election on April21 taking nearly 20% of the vote.
Minutillo is an incumbent and McAllister and Sullivan are new to the board and join Carrie Gilliard,Carmelo Garcia, Jimmy Farina and Rose Markle astrustees. Minutillo says that the team is ready to beginwork now the election is behind them. “We are sograteful to everyone who helped us in the campaignprocess,” says Minutillo. “But now it’s time to moveahead and work together with everyone to help makethe schools the best they can be.”
Time to Get Running
You still have time to get ready for the Hoboken Harriers annual Classic 5-Mile Race. Join other runners for a scenic race around town
on Sunday, May 17 for the 5 mile race (at 10 AM) or a 1 mile Fun Run (9:30 AM). Pre-register through May 9, registration fee is $18 and t-shirts are guar-anteed with race packet. Race day registration is$20 but t-shirts are available only while supply last. For more information visit www.hoha.net.
Hoboken Spring Arts & Music FestivalWhen: Sunday, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. along WashingtonStreet
Upcoming Events
HFA MAY 200911
Get your baby and buggy and march in May at the 8th Annual Baby ParadeWhen: May 17 Sunday 1 PM (Rain date, May 31)Where: From Sinatra Park at 525 Sinatra Park to Pier A ParkWhat: Trophies are awarded for Best Dressed Child, Most Creative Carriage, and Best Dressed Family.What: Register early at Sinatra ParkCall the Hoboken Historical Museum for moreinformation (201)656-2240
Want to march with the Hoboken Family Alliance? Email [email protected]
A Less Painful Tonsillectomy
Any parent who has been through a traditional tonsillectomy with their child knows that the recovery can be excruciating. Sleepless nights due to extreme throat and ear pain, as well as loss of appetite for up to a week, are typical symptoms kids experience after the proce-
dure. Coblation-assisted tonsillectomy — an FDA approved procedure using low-temperature
radiofrequency energy to remove unwanted tonsil tissue precisely and rapidly — can make a difference. Studies have found that children who undergo coblation tonsillectomies experience less postoperative pain, fewer complications and heal faster.
“It’s still painful, but much less so than conventional tonsillectomies,” said Dr. Alex Glickman, a board-certified ear, nose and throat specialist who performs the procedure at Hoboken University Medical Center. Dr. Glickman, who has performed more than 3,000 coblation tonsil-lectomies, says the surgery is faster, and so is recovery because the lower temperature helps to preserve healthy tissue surrounding the removed tonsil.
Tonsil removal is one of the most common surgical procedures for children and is frequently recommended to treat chronic throat infections and sleep apnea. To learn more, contact Dr. Glickman at his Hoboken practice at (201) 420-6300.
fastframeford wealthhartshorn portraiturehoboken univ med ctrhudson dance and movtirmskids communicatelife is good/spread the wordmimosa digitalpriority chiroprogressive pediatricsromparoostevens cooperative schoolwiley
NON PROFITORGANIZATION
U.S. POSTAGEPAID
PERMIT NO. 292HOBOKEN, N.J.
HOBOKEN FAMILY ALLIANCEP.O. Box 1194
Hoboken, NJ 07030
Hoboken Family Alliance RepresentativesEmail your Group Rep for suggestions for things to do
0-12 months Jenny Rich, [email protected] years Laurie Katz, [email protected] years Joanne Roe, [email protected]
Cindy Altberger, [email protected] years Tracey Schnabel, [email protected]+ years Irene Sobolov, [email protected] Kristi Stephan, [email protected] Needs Children Theresa Howard, [email protected] Families Lynn Danzker, [email protected]
Hoboken Family Alliance Contacts www.hobokenfamily.com Newsletter Editor open, [email protected]
Community Affairs Director Laura Burkhart, [email protected]
Finance Director Amy Kron, [email protected]
Marketing Director Shana Lee, [email protected]
Membership Director Mimi Park, [email protected]
School Liaison Committee Chair Erin Bellissimo, [email protected]
Special Events Director Heather Khazen, [email protected]
Philanthropy Director Michele Hulsman, [email protected]
Web site Director Steve Walkowiak, [email protected]
Director for Special Needs Children Theresa Howard, [email protected]
The purpose of the Hoboken Family Alliance is to improve the Hoboken Community
and its way of life through the efforts of individual and family volunteers. The HFA focuses
its efforts on education and parenting issues, philanthropy, children’s resources and events.
Thanks to our HFA sponsors!
