1.   ANNOUNCEMENTS:
     - New AdoptionSearch.com search engine
     - 100+ new message boards for adoptees, birth parents, and parents 
     - Looking for blog beta-testers 
2.   NEW ARTICLES
3.   ADOPTION NEWS
4.   ADOPTION BOOK CLUB - adoption book review
5.   CHILDREN'S BUREAU EXPRESS - helping hurting children
6.   MEET NEW HOPEFUL ADOPTIVE PARENTS
7.   FEATURED WAITING CHILD
8.   ADOPTION BUZZ - recent message board discussions
9.   ADOPTION GEM - inspirational thought
10.  ADOPTION SITE SPOTLIGHT
11.  ADOPTION DESTINATIONS - international adoption
12.  JUST FOR THE FUN OF IT - clean weekly humor
13.  FEATURED ADOPTION PROFESSIONAL
14.  ADOPTIONSHOP.COM PICK - review of an adoption product
15.  SOUND COUNSEL - question and answer/advice column 
16.  SPEAK OUT - contributions from our readers
17.  ADOPTION ONLINE GROUP REVIEW
18.  ADOPTION POETRY
19.  ADOPTION CALENDAR - adoption events, seminars, & chats

New Fm Magazine! Introducing, the first print magazine, ever, that is geared toward birth mothers. This 30+ page full color, print magazine is filled with personal stories as told by "fm's" in their own words from their own experiences. It will also contain articles, resources, current events, columns, and features that effect and impact birth mothers from all walks of life. Fm (First Mother) is all about the truth as we, the birth mothers, know it. Subscribe, contribute, advertise, and become a part of this amazing magazine today! http://www.fm-magazine.com Help! How Do I Write This? Expressing emotions, feelings, and needs in ways that produce positive results is often difficult to do. For some, it can feel overwhelming, sometimes even frightening, and can be stressful. You aren't alone. There is help. Courtney has worked with hundreds of triad members in creating written expressions of the heart that have delivered powerful results. Contact Courtney Frey today at http://www.courtneyfrey.com . 10% off all services this month only for Adoption Weekly subscribers who mention this ad.

___________________________________________________________________

2. NEW ARTICLES

The views expressed by the authors are solely their own, and for which the authors are responsible. These views do not necessarily represent the views of Adoption Week e-Magazine.

7 Keys to Adoption Success – Learning - new article by Mardie Caldwell, COAP
Judge the value, not the price. Often, the higher priced tried and true adoption professional with a proven track record of success will give you much more value and less heartache than someone less expensive, which, in fact, can be a comparative bargain. Compare adoption services and successes and take your time when doing your research. Just a few weeks of research can pay off tremendously. Always check with the Better Business Bureau for referrals at www.bbbonline.org. http://e-magazine.adoption.com/article.php?articleid=260

Please Remember Our Children - new article by Rhonda G.
The word rang a few bells; I had not thought of or heard the word foster children in so long. The word brought back memories of dirty children in small homes with so many kids. Immediately we began the process to become foster parents. In the last three years, we have had the opportunity to give 17 drug exposed infants a positive start to life. We also have become the proud parents of a beautiful little boy and a gorgeous baby girl, each of whom we picked up at the hospital and nurtured back to life. http://e-magazine.adoption.com/article.php?articleid=261

Top 10 List of What You Need to Know about Infertility - new article by Helen Dutton
When I started down the path of infertility a few years ago, it felt like I had been dropped into a foreign land. I didn’t know where I was, where I was headed, I didn’t understand what was being said, and I certainly hadn’t been given a map. I would like to share with you what I learned through my struggle with fertility and my training as a coach in hopes that you will benefit and find the journey smoother. http://e-magazine.adoption.com/article.php?articleid=262

A Birth Mother’s Advice on Choosing Adoptive Parents - new article by Nicole Lambert
Before you begin meeting with and talking to couples, you should have an idea in your head as to what type of adoption you are looking for. Do you want a very open adoption with the ability to visit anytime? Or would prefer a scheduled visit once a year? Or do you think visits might be too tough for you to handle and that pictures and updates would simply be the best thing for you? Or do you think that anything would be too hard and that a closed adoption might be the best thing for you. Although, I think it is more important to keep in mind, that open adoptions are not legally forceable in most states. http://e-magazine.adoption.com/article.php?articleid=263

Read these articles or contribute an article at http://e-magazine.adoption.com.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

Why pay $20 or more for Internet access? With AdoptionISP.com, you pay as low as $12.95 per month, and $3 of your monthly payment is donated to adoption causes. Adoption ISP is a reliable, full-service, nationwide Internet Service Provider (ISP). Sign up for high-speed or dial-up internet access, save money, and make a difference at http://www.AdoptionISP.com.
___________________________________________________________________

3. ADOPTION NEWS

Anti-Abortion Activists Say They'll Keep Pushing Waiting Period Bill (GA)
http://www.adoption.com/includes/frame.php?url=http://www.macon.com/ mld/macon/news/politics/5648003.htm

Exploring the Family Ties that Bind (CA)
http:// www.adoption.com/includes/frame.php?url=http://www.bayarea.com/mld/cctimes/news/local/states/ california/counties/contra_costa_county/cities_neighborhoods/5645200.htm

Couple Risk SARS to Adopt Little Girl (FL)
http://www.adoption.com/includes/frame.php?url=http:// www.sptimes.com/2003/04/16/NorthPinellas/Couple_risk_SARS_to_a.shtml

Don't Sacrifice Foster Kids (CO)
http://www.adoption.com/includes/frame.php?url=http://www.denverpost.com/Stories /0,1413,36~417~1330497,00.html

If any of the links to the news articles do not work, visit http://www.adoption.com/news for a list of headlines.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

4. ADOPTION BOOK CLUB

I LOVE KOREA!
A highlight of Korean lifestyles, history, folktales, poems and songs. These are stories of the Korean people, providing touching legacies from Korea's past.

Find 7,000+ other adoption products at AdoptionShop.com.

To share your favorite adoption book with others, join the Adoption Book Club on AdoptionLists.com at http://adoptionlists. com/index.php?action=lists&listname=adoptionbookclub.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

5. CHILDREN'S BUREAU EXPRESS

Special Section: April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month

Child Abuse Prevention Initiative and Web Site Launched
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=625

Emerging Practices in the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=626

Home Visiting Programs Help Reduce Child Maltreatment
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=627

Baltimore's Family Connections Program Proven to Prevent Child Maltreatment
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=633

Research

Literature Review Explores Non-Custodial Fathers' Involvement in Child Welfare
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=617

International Study Seeks Participants
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=628

Promising Practices

Forensic Interviews and Family-Centered Practice
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=629

Web Site Maps Ways to Improve Outcomes for Children
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=619

News You Can Use

Publications
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=631

Funding
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=635

Training
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=634

Conferences
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=636>

Spotlight on the National Resource Centers

FRIENDS National Resource Center for Community-Based Family Resource and Support Programs
http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/articles.cfm?article_id=632

Credit: Children's Bureau Express
Link: http://www.calib.com/cbexpress/

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

6. MEET NEW HOPEFUL ADOPTIVE PARENTS

Outdated material has been removed. Please visit ParentProfiles.com.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

Adoption is music to our ears...now it can be for you, too. Adoption.com's new adoption CD, "Adoption...The Songs You Love", is dedicated to everyone who has been touched by adoption in one way or another. ORDER YOUR CD! More Info



Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

7. FEATURED WAITING CHILD


Roger is a fun, loving child. He is initially shy with strangers, but once he knows you, he will open up. He is enrolled in special education classes and has some behavior issues. He enjoys riding his scooter, soccer, basketball, or riding his bike. An ideal family for Roger would be patient, loving, and consistent in their discipline. Roger also needs a family open to maintaining contact with his adopted siblings.

http://photolisting.adoption.com is a free community service of Adoption.com featuring more than 1,800 children awaiting loving, permanent homes.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

8. ADOPTION BUZZ

General Adoptive Parent Support:- Adopting A Baby when You have Older Children
http://www.adoptionforums.com/t100437.html

General Adoption Issues:- I Found My Brother
http://www.adoptionforums.com/t100814.html

Reasons for Searching:- Important Posting Information
http://www.adoptionforums.com/t101087.html

Poetry:- Now I Understand Mother
http://www.adoptionforums.com/t101018.html

If any of the links above do not work, visit Adoption.com for direct links to these discussions.

For more online adoption discussions, visit http://www.AdoptionForums.com.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

9. ADOPTION GEM

10. ADOPTION SITE SPOTLIGHT

This week, our adoption spotlight is shining on: www.AdoptionBenefits.com

Many employers provide their employees with adoption benefits, such as paid leave, unpaid leave, or adoption reimbursements. Use this site as a guide to find out what type of benefits you are missing out on now, as an adoptive parent, and find out what types of benefits are usually available for adoptive parents like yourself.

For a list of our favorite adoption websites, visit http://adoptions.adoption.com.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

11. ADOPTION DESTINATIONS

InternationalAdoption.org is the internet's authoritative destination for international adoption. You will find fact sheets, adoption information, travel information, culture and heritage, maps, weather, books, currency exchange rates, periodicals, news and much more for dozens of different countries with active international adoption programs.

This week, the country of focus is Russia.

Russia is the largest country in the world, in terms of area, but unfavorably located in relation to major sea lanes of the world; despite its size, much of the country lacks proper soils and climates (either too cold or too dry) for agriculture. As of July 2001, the Russian population was 145,470,197.

To learn more about the Russia's government, geography, and communication information, or its history, visit http://Russia.Adoption.com.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

12. JUST FOR THE FUN OF IT

HE'S REAL!

I have 2 children: a 4-year-old daughter from Russia and her brother, recently adopted from Estonia, is 3. At our small town local post office, an elderly gentleman who sees us in church regularly whispers loudly to me, "Is that Victoria's REAL brother?"

My daughter hears this and goes over to her brother, pinching him hard on the arm while Nicholas lets out a yell. Victoria then turns to the gentleman and says, "He's REAL!"

Out of the mouths of babes!

- Proud Mama from Pennsylvania, Kimber
http://adopt6.tripod.com/ouradoptionsofvictoriaroseandnicholasmisha

E-mail your humorous story or joke to editor@adoptionmedia.com.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

13. FEATURED ADOPTION PROFESSIONAL

Family Creations
Bradenton, FL
Toll Free: (866) 322-9630
Phone: (941) 727-9630
Contact: Alice Kelley
info@familycreationsinc.com

Family Creations is a licensed child placing agency, specializing in domestic and international adoptions, Independent Home Studies, and counseling services to birth parents and adoptive parents. Our services are confidential, and provided by caring professionals.

Services: • Adoption Agencies • International Adoption
Countries: • Guatemala • Ukraine

For more information on Family Creations, visit http://www.familycreationsinc.com/.

Find adoption agencies, attorneys and other adoption professionals at http://directory.adoption.com.

To see your ad here, visit http://adoptiondirectory.com/upgrade.php.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

14. ADOPTIONSHOP.COM PICK

Language Littles Chinese (Ling) - Only $36.95

These soft-bodied, sixteen-inch dolls represent children from Russia, China and Spanish speaking countries. Language Littles will introduce foreign language to children from kindergarten through grade school. When one hand is pressed, the doll will recite a series of greetings and phrases, in a friendly human voice. When the other hand is pressed, the doll will count, recite colors, numbers, days of the week, etc., in both English and a foreign language. There is a colorful heart on each of the dolls that when pressed will say the words "I love you. Learning really can be fun!

For more information and ordering instructions, visit More Info.

For more adoption products, visit http://adoptionshop.com.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

15. SOUND COUNSEL

Question:

Hello my name is K. and I have a situation that I need some advice on. Well it was a year last February that I found my real father and soon after he was found he gave me my mother's name and my internet search Angel called her. She told him that if I was to jump into her life right now it would ruin it, but that I could call her the next day at a certain time. Well needless to say she didn't answer. I finally got a hold of her two days later. I spoke with her briefly (very brief) she said that it wasn't a good time for her to talk and that she didn't know when it would be. Well, I just thanked her for giving me birth and made sure she knew that she had seven grandchildren that would also love to meet her. I also made sure that she had my Email and my phone number and told her goodbye. That was over a year ago and 2 birthdays have gone by which I thought would have been my ticket for her call. I have a brother and sister on this side and feel they should know. I don't feel that my birth mother has told anyone. I felt at first, that it was know big deal at least I had met my birth father and his family. But now my feelings are hurt and I want to meet her really badly. I have her address and can't tell you how many times I have just wanted to send her a card and some pictures, but my real goal is to meet her. I know that she would love me if she gave us a chance. Is there anybody that can help me reach out to her?

Thank You,

K.

Answer:

K:
I must start by saying I am sorry your first contact with your biological mother did not go a you had hoped. Unfortunately, sometimes people are not capable or ready to handle a situation such as that.

I must be honest, and advise that you not contact your biological mother directly again. I know it is tempting; however, you have made the initial contact and she explicitly indicated that she was not ready at this point to make contact with you. I fear that if you were to continue to force contact with her, it may lead to you pushing her so far away that you will never be able to meet her.

If you insist upon continuing to try, I would recommend asking your biological father to talk to her. I do not know if they are still on speaking terms, but judging by the fact that he knew her current contact information, I would assume he is. If that is the case, ask him to speak with her and explain to her how great it was for him to meet you and your family and how fulfilling it was for him. Much past that; however, and you may permanently damage any hope of your biological mother wanting to meet you.

I wish there was someone out there who could help you convince your biological mother to want to meet with you; however, you just cannot force someone to be ready for something like that. I wish you the best in your situation, and hope that it works out for you. Just be patient and everything will play itself out as it is supposed to.

DB

---------------------------------

Question:

I was adopted in Georgia in 1960. Do you know anyway to get my adoption file opened. I have read the codes for the state & it appears medical is the only way. Any suggestions you may have would help.

Thank you,

C.

Answer:

C,
I have done some additional research on your behalf and have found the following:

You can obtain non-identifying information from the Georgia State Vital Records Office.

Vital Records Service
State Department of Human Resources
47 Trinity Ave. SW, Room 217-H
Atlanta, GA 30334
(404) 656-4750


In order to find identifying information, you may want to try the Passive Registry.

Passive Registry
Office of Adoptions Permanency Support Unit
Att: Reunion Registry
2 Peachtree Street, NW, Ste. 13-400
Atlanta, GA 30303
(404) 657-3559

Also, you can attempt to contact the State Adoption Department.

State Adoption Department
GA Department of Human Resources
State Adoption Unit
878 Peachtree Street, NE, Room 501
Atlanta, GA 30309
(404) 894-2641

Hope this helps, and good luck with your search.

DB

To submit your questions, e-mail adoptionquestions2003@yahoo.com

In order for your questions/comments to be answered in the next week's issue, questions need to be submitted before 12 noon each Thursday.

In addition, please remember to keep your questions appropriate for Adoption Week e-Magazine; otherwise, they will not be answered or included in the next week's edition.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

16. SPEAK OUT

I just had the most successful reunion story that I want to share with everyone. I was adopted in Rhode Island, and with a little help from a volunteer, I was reunited with my birth mother and birth father. She is amazing, and she and her family have welcomed me with open arms. She never kept me a secret from her family, so not only did I reunite with her, I inherited a whole family. Plus, she always kept in touch with my birth father in the event I ever came looking for either one of them, so I found him as well. If you ever had any doubt, never give up. Other than the birth of my children, this has been the most incredible experience. And, neither one my birth parents ever had any children! My birth mother married a man with 6 children, and they used to live a mile from me! They are now introducing me as their sister! I am thrilled beyond belief! I finally know who I look like! - Lisa

---------------------------------

A note to all birth parents:

I am an adoptive mother of 3. I send photos and letters to my birth families each year. Our children all know they are adopted and enjoy hearing their stories. While mine are still young, I read your stories of wondering how your children are and what they are like. I feel even more compelled to continue my limited letters and photos, if for no other reason than to give the birth parents of my children a little piece of our lives that connect forever. I wish someday that all of my children will meet their birth parents with open arms. Thank you for sharing your hearts so that this adoptive mom knows she is doing right by people like you. - Cheryl (TX)

---------------------------------

The post from the father who asks if he did wrong by searching for his adopted daughter had me running for the box of Puffs! I am someone's adopted daughter, and I can only hope that my birth family is searching for me. YOU DID NOTHING WRONG! In my opinion, you only showed that you cared enough to search. Caring is never wrong. Maybe the angry daughter is just not ready yet. The process of adoption is as emotional for the child as for birth families. At a younger age I, too, may have been angry. Now, at 38, I've had time to heal, grow, and, yes, forgive. Maybe you could leave the avenue of communication open for her, and when/if she is in a better place emotionally, she will want to re-establish contact? This is just my opinion, but I hope it helps. Sincerely, someone's adopted daughter

---------------------------------

I am the mother of a son who recently turned 18. I adopted him out at birth. I had contact until he was 13, then lost track. The parents that adopted my son sent pictures and a Christmas card every year. Now that he is 18, I was able to track them down, and they disconnected my number from their phone. I am confused and distraught. The adoption was always to be open and honest. It was till 13, or so I thought; now they will not respond. I am considering flying out and talking to them. Would I be in the wrong? Now that he is 18 I want him to know the circumstances. PLEASE, someone respond with your opinion. My e-mail address is James117sjb@hotmail.com.

---------------------------------

I would like to share a small story in hopes it may help someone.

Our family attends weekly mass. In fact, I was choir director at our church at the time this happened. My husband and I have three children: one son (whom is adopted) and two natural born daughters, all grown and with children of their own.

One Sunday when we were leaving the church, a woman came up to me and said, "You have the most adorable children, which one is adopted?" I looked at her and smiled and said, " I don't remember."

You see, adoption is part of God's plan for some of our lives. Both adopting out and adopting in. I think it is a glorious plan, and I praise God daily for this beautiful plan that He has made for my husband and I. If we step back when questions like this arise and praise God that He is in control, He takes care of it effortlessly. May God richly bless all of you, whether it be you are adopted or you are adopting, just remember to praise God. Isn't He wonderful? Sincerely, Nancy

---------------------------------

I want to comment on a couple of stories I read (last) week. Many of you are searching for birth parents or parents searching for that child you gave up for adoption. Some say, "Should I search or not?" The answer is do; the reason is that you won't rest if you don't, and the other party may be looking for you. I adopted my wife's son from her first marriage; he has made me proud of him. He is a policeman in our local town. He did his time in the service, and now he is raising two fine boys of his own. He carries my middle and last names. He asked why his bio-dad didn't have a thing to do with him. The answer is he couldn't give him the life someone else couldast that point in his life. The truth is anyone out there that is adopted or has given a child up to for adoption is doing it to try and give him/her a better life. Adoption is good, so why are so many people bitter? Ask the lady who wrote about wanting to find her bio-parents and thank them for giving her a better life. Thanks, and if I can help in any way, or if anybody needs to talk or search, I would be proud to. God bless you all. - David Arthur Payne ( - PAYN5795@BELLSOUTH.NET) P.S. I love this Speak Out section.

---------------------------------

Easter Message to Adoptees : As I read some of your letters about who you think you are and where you think you came from, my heart breaks for the sadness, abandonment and betrayal you sense from your birth families. May I suggest that from the beginning of time God had a plan for your life, and it included your birth parents to play the role they did and for your adoptive parents and families to play the roles they have? God has never once made a mistake. Adoption is not a dirty word, and God makes provision for all people to be adopted into His family. Look at Moses, he was adopted by Pharoah's daughter and saved the nation of Israel. By accepting our free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ, we can call God our Father. Once you are a part of the Family of God who you think you are is not so important as who you've become and the focus will not be on you anymore but on serving a risen Savior and the body of Christ. We have 9 children: two by birth, 7 by adoption. We thank God for them every day, and collectively we pray for all the birth families and live each day expectantly, because God can do great things in the lives of His people! Happy Easter. - maplehillmom@hotmail.com

---------------------------------

To Phyliss C. - you could adopt an older child. A number of families have adopted older children from Russia and are very happy. I would suggust you contact Nightlight International in Le Brea, Calif. There are a number of older children that would love to have a family both here and abroad. - kcn

To Speak Out and share your opinion or a comment, or to respond to a message, e-mail editor@adoptionmedia.com.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

17. ADOPTION ONLINE SUPPORT GROUP REVIEW

Here's a recent post from the Older Child Adoption group:

Hello Everybody --

THANK YOU for both your prayers and words of encouragement. God does work in mysterious ways -- and always seems to come thru when we need him the most.

The DCF supervisor called me at 12:30 in the morning on Saturday saying they had found our young man and asking if we still were interested in him. OF COURSE! So, I got out of bed, got dressed and drove to another city to pick him up in the middle of the night. He is now HOME with us -- right where he belongs. And this family is very much relieved.

I can't tell you all how much your words of encouragement and e-mails have helped. God bless you all...

Bea

To be part of this group, or one of 70+ other adoption-related online e- mail discussion groups, visit http://AdoptionLists.com, register, and join.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

18. ADOPTION POETRY

ACHING HEARTS

Your heart is aching for someone to hold you.
My heart is aching for someone to hold.
My empty arms are here to embrace you,
Soon we'll be together, Mother and child.

I hear your cries when you are hungry,
I hear you whimper when you are alone,
I hear you giggle when the nanny makes faces,
Soon we'll be together, Mother and child.

Hold on to your dreams of a family, of love
And I'll hold onto the hope of bringing you home.
Hold on to your dreams, we are coming to get you
And you'll be filling my arms, my heart, our home.

Give me your hand, I'll be there to protect you,
Give me your heart, and I'll cherish our love.
The love between Mother and child is precious,
Soon we'll be together, Mother and child.

I'll fly over an ocean to see and to meet you,
I'd dig straight through the earth to be where you are.
I'm waiting my turn; time is all that's between us.
Soon we'll be together, Mother and child.

- Julie A. Rocheleau © 2002
My husband and I are adopting from China and are expecting to hear something, hopefully, this spring.

For more adoption poetry, visit http://poetry.adoption.com.

Submit your adoption poetry to editor@adoptionmedia.com.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

19. ADOPTION CALENDAR

CHAT SCHEDULE:

Sunday:
Reunion Support Group Chat with Loretta in the Search and Reunion room at 6pm Pacific, 7pm Mountain, 8pm Central, 9pm Eastern

Monday:
Join Dr. Art Becker-Weidman in the hosted chat room at 2pm Pacific, 3pm Mountain, 4pm Central, 5pm Eastern and ask him questions on attachment therapy and treating children with trauma-attachment disorders.

Adoptee Chat with Thea in the hosted chat room at 6pm Pacific, 7pm Mountain, 8pm Central, 9pm Eastern. Thea is a caring adoptee that has recently reunited with her birthmother.

Tuesday:
Birth mom chat with Angelwings. Angel is a birthmom and adoptee. Her chat is held in the BirthMother.chat room at 4pm Pacific, 5pm Mountain, 6pm Central, 7pm Eastern

Birth father's General Support Chat in the hosted chat room with adoptee and birthfather, Terry. All are invited at 6pm Pacific, 7pm Mountain, 8pm central, 9pm Eastern

Attachment Disorder: A Journey of Hope Chat with Parent Nancy Geoghegan; educational weekly chat at 7pm Pacific, 8pm Mountain, 9pm Central, 10pm Eastern

Wednesday:
Pre- and adoptive parent chat with JJ and friends - Help as you begin the adoption process. Hosted in Adoptive Parents chat room at 5pm Pacific, 6pm Mountain, 7pm Central, 8pm Eastern.

Parenting issues for adoptive/foster parents with Dimasmom in FosterCare chat room at 6pm Pacific, 7pm Mountain, 8pm Central, 9pm Eastern.

Join an informative chat on the ups and downs of reunion hosted by Sabra since 1997. Talk out your next step and share your experiences in search and reunion at 7pm Pacific, 8pm Mountain, 9pm Central, 10pm Eastern in the Search and Reunion chat room.

Thursday:
Evening with Colleen Buckner, search expert, in Search and Reunion chat room at 6pm Pacific, 7pm Mountain, 8pm Central, 9pm Eastern.

Friday:
If you are having a "limbo" type experience with your reunion, come and talk it over with those who've "been there-done that" themselves. Join co-hosting birth mothers, April and Judy, in the Search and Reunion room on Fridays: 5pm Pacific, 6pm Mountain, 7pm Central, 8pm Eastern.

Saturday:
Older child adoption/foster care behavioral issues with Jerry in FosterCare chat room at 6pm Pacific, 7pm Mountain, 8pm Central, 9pm Eastern.

For a listing of times and descriptions and to attend scheduled chats, or join the live chat, visit http://forums.adoption.com/chat.

ADOPTION EVENTS:

INTERNATIONAL ADOPTION SUPPORT MEETING
April 23 (7:00 - 8:30 pm)
Euclid Public Library, Erie Room, 631 E. 222nd. St., Euclid, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Adoptive parents or prospective adoptive parents of internationally adopted children. No registration or membership is required to attend.

9TH BIENNIAL CONFERENCE ON OPEN ADOPTION: Among Friends: the Open Adoption Community Reflects on a Generation of Practice and Experience
April 24 - 26
Traverse City Michigan
Catholic Human Services
* Varied Format:There a lots of ways to take in information--general session presentations, panels, poetry, and workshops. Most of this conference will be presented in an exciting new interview format.
* Pertinent Topics: With experts in so many aspects of open adoption on hand, few topics of importance go unexamined. The history of the conference reveals a special interest in those issues that touch the spirit.
* Presentation of the Baran & Pannor Award: Carrying the names of open adoption's most noteworthy pioneers, this award is treasured by each and every recipient.
For more information contact Jim Gritter at (231)947-8110.

BIRTH MOTHERS' HEALING WORKSHOP
April 26 (9:00 am ­ 4:00 pm)
1667 East 40th St. Suite B-1, Cleveland, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Who can attend: Full-day workshop for women who have placed a child for adoption. RSVP: Full lunch included. Registration is $25 per person and pre-registration is required by Friday, March 21. Call (216) 881-7511.

TRIGGERS: WHAT CAN CAUSE ADOPTION-RELATED CRISIS
April 28 (6:00 - 9:00 pm)
Bellefaire, JCB, 22001 Fairmount Blvd., Shaker Hts., Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Presenter: Zoe Breen-Wood
RSVP: Free workshop. Foster parent training certificates and social work/counselor CEU's provided. Registration is required, please call (216) 881-7511. Registration closes 3 days prior to workshop.

WORKSHOP FOR PROSPECTIVE ADOPTIVE PARENTS
April 29 (7:00 pm - 8:30 pm)
Stevensville, MI (Lincoln Township Public Library, 2099 W John Beers Rd)
Great Wall China Adoption
This is a free workshop for prospective adoptive parents and others seeking more information about adopting from China. Couples from ages 30 to 55 are eligible to adopt. A Great Wall China Adoption representative who has adopted a daughter from China will be presenting. For further information, or to reserve a place at the workshop, please contact Kim Bakos at (269) 429-6292 or by email at kimberbakos@yahoo.com.

WICKLIFFE GENERAL MEETING
April 29 (7:30 - 9:30 pm)
Schrembs Hall, CSS, 28700 Euclid Ave., Wickliffe, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Adult adoptees, birth parents, siblings, adoptive parents, prospective adoptive parents, professionals and anyone interested in lifelong adoption issues welcome. No registration or membership is required to attend. Adoption Network Cleveland is a non-profit educational, advocacy, search, and support group for adoptees, birth parents, adoptive parents and professionals. For more information, contact Adoption Network Cleveland at (216) 881-7511 or on the web at http://www.AdoptionNetwork.org.

ROCKY RIVER GENERAL MEETING - Topic: Grief
May 1 (7:30 - 9:30 pm)
West Shore Unitarian Church, 20401 Hilliard Blvd., Rocky River, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Attendees: Adult adoptees, birthparents, siblings, adoptive parents, prospective adoptive parents, professionals and anyone who is interested in lifelong adoption issues. No registration or membership is required to attend.

BIRTH PARENT SUPPORT MEETING -Topic: Intimacy
May 7 (6:30 - 8:30 pm)
1667 East 40th St. Suite B-1, Cleveland, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Attendees: Birth parents who have given up a child for adoption

EXPLORING ADOPTION: AN INTENSIVE EDUCATIONAL SERIES FOR PEOPLE CONSIDERING ADOPTING CHILDREN
May 7, 14, 21, & 28 (7:00 - 9:00 pm)
Santa Cruz, CA
Adoption Paths
Four Wednesday evenings in May, Adoption Paths, an educational organization unaffiliated with any adoption agency, invites prospective adoptive parents to explore their questions and concerns about all types of adoption. The series will be taught by Sara Lively, M.S.Ed. The fee for all four sessions is $100 per person or $150 per couple. For more information and to register, contact (831) 476-7252 or http://www.AdoptionPaths.com.

BIRTH MOTHER'S DAY CEREMONY
May 10 (5:00 pm)
1667 East 40th St. Suite B-1, Cleveland, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Program: Birthmother¹s Day Ceremony is an opportunity for birth mother¹s, whose children have been adopted, to share in their birth mother experience through poetry, song and ritual. Following the ceremony there will be a light potluck ­ please bring an hors d¹oeuvre or dessert to share. Who can attend: Open to the public. Birth mothers and all who support birth mothers are welcome. RSVP: There is no cost for attending, but registration is required by Saturday, May 3. Please call (216) 881-7511 to register.

THE EUPOREAN ADOPTION SYMPOSIUM: FAMILY BUILDING THROUGH ADOPTION
May 10 (0800 - 1630)
Faith Baptist Church, Lichtenbrucherstrasse 17, Einsiedlerhof-Kaiserslautern, Germany
Landstuhl American Red Cross and the Ramstein Air Base Family Support Center
The 11th of the series, this symposium will educate and prepare prospective adoptive parents for their task in the adoption procedure and the parenting role, as well as provide current adoptive parents with resources and support for raising their children. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from legal advisors, American immigration officials, adoption agency representatives, and others considered experts in understanding adoption issues and adoptive children. Adoption oriented books will be available for purchase through special arrangements with a consignment agency. Bring cash or checks for purchases. Persons wishing to contribute to this effort (in expertise, time, resources or monetary donations), may contact the American Red Cross at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center (DSN 486-7298 or CIV 06371-86-7298) or Jeanie Veith at veithjjj@bunt.com and tel. (in Germany) 06383-5565. Directions will be available by email in April upon request. Please call the Ramstein Air Force Base Family Support Center at DSN 480-5100 and CIV (in Germany) 06371-47-5100.

A JOURNEY OF A THOUSAND MILES BEGINS WITH ONE STEP
May 12 (6:30 - 8:00 pm)
Yankee Clipper Branch Library in Grand Rapids, MI
AAC Adoption and Family Network
AAC Adoption and Family Network invite you to a free informational meeting on adopting from China. Please call (810) 844-0278, or e-mail mamakgreen@yahoo.com to register! Space is limited.

FREE TRAINING FOR PROSPECTIVE ADOPTIVE AND FOSTER PARENTS OR KINSHIP CAREGIVERS
Series: May 13 - May 31 (Times vary per day; please call for specific times. Each segment is 3 hours long.)
1667 East 40th St. Suite B-1, Cleveland, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Program: Pre-placement training for prospective adoptive/foster/kinship caregivers through the Ohio Child Welfare Training Program. Topics include: Orientation and overview of foster care/adoption/kinship care;family systems and abuse and neglect; attachment, sexual abuse. Attendees: Prospective adoptive parents, foster parents, or kinship caregivers. RSVP: There is no cost for attending, but registration is required at least 3 days in advance on a space available basis. Please call (216) 881-7511 to register. Foster parent training credits will be given.

AKRON GENERAL MEETING
May 14 (7:30 - 9:30 pm)
Akron General Health and Wellness Center, 4125 Medina Road, Akron, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Attendees: Adult adoptees, birth parents, siblings, adoptive parents, prospective adoptive parents, professionals and anyone who is interested in lifelong adoption issues. No registration or membership is required to attend.

HOW TO ADOPT WORKSHOP FOR NY & NJ RESIDENTS
May 14, June 11, July 9, August 13 (6:00 - 8:00 pm)
130 East 59 Street (UJA-Federation), Manhattan
$25 per person
Ametz Adoption Program, JCCA
A good place to start if you are just thinking about adoption. Includes domestic and international adoption options, working with attorneys and agencies, costs, time frames, adoption home studies and first steps. Presentations by Ametz and international adoption agency staff. Questions are encouraged. For more information or to register, please contact Susan Kupferberg at (212) 558-9949 or e-mail ametz@jccany.org.

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS GENERAL MEETING
May 22 (7:30 - 9:30 pm)
Fairmount Presbyterian Church, 2757 Fairmount Blvd., Fullerton Room, Cleveland Hts., Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Attendees: Adult adoptees, birthparents, siblings, adoptive parents, prospective adoptive parents, professionals and anyone who is interested in lifelong adoption issues. No registration or membership is required to attend.

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS GENERAL MEETING
May 22 (7:30 - 9:30 pm)
Fairmount Presbyterian Church, 2757 Fairmount Blvd., Fullerton Room, Cleveland Hts., Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Attendees: Adult adoptees, birthparents, siblings, adoptive parents, prospective adoptive parents, professionals and anyone who is interested in lifelong adoption issues. No registration or membership is required to attend.

WICKLIFFE GENERAL MEETING - Topic: Loss
May 27 (7:30 - 9:30 pm)
Schrembs Hall, CSS, 28700 Euclid Ave., Wickliffe, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Attendees: Adult adoptees, birthparents, siblings, adoptive parents, prospective adoptive parents, professionals and anyone who is interested in lifelong adoption issues. No registration or membership is required to attend.

INTERNATIONAL ADOPTION SUPPORT MEETING - Topic: School Issues & Advocacy
May 28 (7:00 - 8:30 pm)
Euclid Public Library, Erie Room, 631 E. 222nd. St., Euclid, Ohio
Adoption Network Cleveland
Attendees: Adoptive parents or prospective adoptive parents of internationally adopted children. No registration or membership is required to attend.

18TH ANNUAL ARCHEOLOGY: Summer Intensives on Adoption and Complex Families
July 7 - 8 (Session I; 8:00 am - 4:00 pm)
July 9 (Session II; 8:00 am - 4:30 pm)
July 10 - 11 (Session III; 8:00 am - 3:00 pm and 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, respectively)
Provincetown, MA
Adoption Resource Center & Center For Family Connections
Session I: Advanced Clinical Intensives ; $400
Session II: The Community of Adoption; $200 for newcomers/$100 for repeat attendees
Session III: 2nd Annual International Adoption Video/Film Festival; $200 for both days/$150 for single day
Fee for Sessions I, II, and III = $725
Payment is non-refundable.
(Proceeds from the Video/Film Festival go to the Expressive Therapy Programs of CFFC)
The ARC Summer Intensives are based on Dr. Pavao's Normative Crisis framework, her years of clinical experience, and her consulting and training expertise. The workshops utilize family systems theory, which is the basis of Dr. Pavao's work. Systemic thinking is woven throughout the design of each workshop.
Register as soon as possible, there is limited space. Social Work and LMFT CEUs are available for an additional $35 per session. Limited scholarships are available (scholarships do not apply to the Video/Film Festival or CEUs). Check our website, http://www.Kinnect.org, for updates. Accommodation information and directions are available upon registration.

For local listings, regional seminars, and many other adoption events, visit AdoptionCalendar.com.

Back to Top
___________________________________________________________________

CALL FOR CONTENT
Adoption Week Magazine is looking for well-written adoption-related articles, poems, quotes, book reviews, news, event announcements, product reviews, photos, successful adoption and reunion stories, clean humor, job openings, letters to the editor, reviews of adoption websites, product recalls, information on adoption legislation, great deals on adoption and family-related products, other adoption-related content. To submit content, or if you would like to be interviewed or to nominate someone for an adoption service award, please visit AdoptionWeek.com.

TO ADVERTISE
Would you like to advertise in the Adoption Week e-mail magazine? Call 1-800-ADOPT-HERE or e-mail sales@adoption.com for more advertising information.

REFER IT
We hope you enjoyed this issue of Adoption Week e-Magazine and encourage you to forward it to others who might find this information useful.

TO SUBSCRIBE OR UNSUBSCRIBE
If you want a free weekly e-mail subscription to Adoption Week e-Magazine, or would like to unsubscribe, visit AdoptionWeek.com.

DISCLAIMER
This e-magazine is provided as a free community service, and by using and reading it you agree to the terms and conditions as posted at AdoptionWeek.com. Adoption.com makes no warrantee about the accurateness of any information in this magazine, and does not endorse any adoption professional, adoption product or other adoption service. If you have received this e-mail erroneously, or do not agree to the terms of this disclaimer, please unsubscribe.