Posts Tagged ‘winter’
January/February Newsletter
Monday, February 7th, 2011
January-February Oral Hull Foundation for the Blind Newsletter
From the desk of Executive Director, Jeff Lann
I began writing this newsletter last week while sitting in my office listening to the ever present rainfall, over four inches in the past few days, splatter the front windows of my office. I was feeling pretty content. The last of our 2010 holiday events ended and things at Oral Hull Park usually take on a slower pace over the upcoming weeks. Or do they?
In reviewing 2010, we served more people in our summer programs than any other time in our 48 year history. Many of these participants have initiated their own campaign to spread the word about Oral Hull’s programs in their own communities. Our summer staff worked countless hours and consistently gave the extra mile to deliver unique and meaningful experiences. We had many donors who gave generously of their time and financial resources to our various campaigns. Our newly elected board of directors (see article below) is ready to devote their time and energy to help secure Oral Hull’s future. Thanks to our many volunteers, we made significant facility upgrades and the park more appealing to all of our users.
Despite our successes, the reality is that “there’s a lot more work to do” and now is not the time to sit on one’s laurels. We are closing in on the budget gap, yet we still operated at a budget deficit in 2010. The campaign to fix the roof in Philbin Dormitory and upgrade the showers is ongoing. There are still people from within our own community and across the county that would like an Oral Hull experience but cannot come up with the fees.
Now is the not the time to relax but to refocus. Our mission continues – more quality programs, more participation, more facility improvements, more community involvement, more pride in what we do. I wish you the best in 2011 and look forward to a busy, but fruitful year!
Jeff
Meet Your Oral Hull Board Members and Executive Committee
The Oral Hull Foundation is pleased to welcome our newly elected board and executive board members. Elected to the board for three year terms of office are: Marjorie Booker, Terry Lenchitsky, Katherine Rogers and Mary Lee Turner. Our new board members have extensive experience in working with non profit agencies and bring new enthusiasm and expertise to our agency.
Elected to our executive board for two year terms of office are: Tom Ciesielski, president, Dr. Gilbert Rivero, 1st vice president, James McCree, 2nd vice president, Bob Sell 3rd vice president, Norm Trost, treasurer, George Morgan, assistant treasurer and Sean Rae, secretary.
Continuing board members include: Tammy Alverson, Carolyn Briggs, Erica Daniels, Evelyn Mell, Don Roach, Kae Seth, Frank Synoground and Gregg Welch.
On behalf of everyone at the Oral Hull Foundation, our heartfelt thanks to outgoing board members D.J. Anderson, Alton Daschofsky and Erin Rumer.
February Weekender To Feature Fun in the Snow
February 4-6 Weekender and Winter Mini-Camp – Enjoy three days and two nights of winter fun and warm fellowship at our first weekender of 2011. Optional activities include snow shoeing on Friday ($10) with the staff of Otto’s Ski Shop and snow-tubing on Saturday ($6). Relax in our spa and enjoy an evening of special entertainment on Saturday night. Advanced registration for outdoor activities, January 25, is required.
Basic prices for our February weekender: Member rate housing: $10 Dorm or $15 trailer per night. Non-member rate housing: $20 Dorm or $25 trailer per night. The price for each meal: dinner $8, Lunch $6, Brunch $7. Minimum numbers required for the winter activities and Friday night and Saturday brunch meals.
Contact Jeff Lann for additional information 503-668-6195.
2011 Summer Vacation Sessions Set
We are pleased to announce the dates for our 2011 summer season. Oral Hull Park offers a blend of relaxing activities and exciting outdoor adventures. You will enjoy our beautiful setting in the foothills of Mt Hood, ideal temperatures (average high in the low 80’s), professional staff and remarkable participants from across the United States and beyond. Registration begins January 17th for Oral Hull members and February 1st for non members. (2011 membership fee is $30.) Call for an application or find one on our website.
Session 1: Adult Adventure I
(recommended for active participants with a spirit of adventure) includes a challenging white water raft trip with continuous class 3+ rapids and other activities such as kayaking, swimming, hiking, rock climbing, etc Includes options for skydiving ($195) and wind surfing ($40) at additional fee. Session dates are July 16-22. $450 per person. A limited amount of financial assistance is available for Oregon residents on a needs basis. Payment plan available to everyone.
Session 2: Adult Adventure II
(recommended for active participants with a spirit of adventure) includes white water rafting and other activities such as, hiking, bungee jumping/zip lines, archery, etc). Includes options for skydiving ($195) and wind surfing ($40). Session dates are July 25-31. $450 per person. A limited amount of financial assistance is available for Oregon residents on a needs basis. Payment plan available.
Session 3: Friends and Alumni
(Traditional camping at its best offering a variety of activities from archery to crafts and music). Session dates are August 5- 11. $395 per person. A limited amount of financial assistance is available for Oregon residents on a needs basis. Payment plan available.
Session 4: MAC
(Our moderate adventure camp offers relaxed exploration of Oregon’s historic sites and pristine natural wonders including a trip to Palmer snowfield, elevation 8,540’ on Mt Hood). Session dates are August 15 – August 22. $395 per person. A limited amount of financial assistance is available for Oregon residents on a needs basis.
Introducing our Family Camp
. Family Camp is offered to families who have one visually impaired member. The entire family is welcome to join in the fun. Camp activities include competitions, swimming, games, camp fires and much more. The cost is $125 per adult age 18 + over and $75 per child. Camp dates are August 25-28. Financial assistance is available.
In every newsletter we feature information about an Oral Hull member. We are pleased to introduce you to Lori Hansen in this issue.
Lori is a new member of the Oral Hull Foundation and recently chaired our successful December fundraising efforts of selling holiday wreaths. Lori was raised in a large family of 7 in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. She and two of her siblings were born with the recessive gene for Ushers Syndrome, with dual challenges of sensory-neural hearing loss and progressive deterioration of peripheral vision.
A move to Medicine Hat, Alberta prompted Lori to train as a rehabilitation teaching assistant for the blind, while she raised her young son Ryan. She served several terms as board member for the Alberta Sports and Recreation Association for the Blind, as coordinator for the Alberta Ride for Sight, and Director for both the National RP Foundation and Canadian Council for the Blind. She was honored to receive the National White Cane Week Award for her dedication in advocating and assisting the blind in her community.
Since 2000, Lori has resided in Portland with her husband Larry and Border collie, Todd. She enjoys spending time with her son Ryan, three stepsons and two newborn grandchildren. Most recently, Lori has become involved at Oral Hull with fundraising efforts and administrative projects. She firmly believes each individual has an inherent gift to share, and she encourages everyone to participate in the many new and exciting endeavors at Oral Hull in 2011!
Lori has already demonstrated her passion and dedication to Oral Hull with the very successful Holiday Wreath and Greenery fundraiser she chaired. What an inspiration! She and her band of “Very Merry Oral Hull Greenery Sellers” braved the cold, wind and rain to sell to the public on December 11th! They made over $700 profit which will go towards camperships! This is one fast acting lady with some terrific ideas for Oral Hull! Thank you Lori!
Transportation to Oral Hull Weekend Events
To prepare for the visit of our Weekender members and guests we require advanced registration for everyone. The Oral Hull Foundation provides free round trip transportation to our monthly Weekenders from the Portland area. Our bus, however, has limited space and wheelchair availability. Seventy two hour advanced notice is required for us to accommodate requests for a wheelchair spot. Everyone should make reservations as we will not pick up at all designated pickup spots unless we have a confirmed passenger. Each member is permitted to bring one medium sized suitcase (not exceeding 20 pounds) and two small pieces of hand/carry on luggage on the Oral Hull bus (to be carried on your seat). Necessary medical devices are excluded.
2011 Transportation Schedule & Membership information
Saturday Morning Run Reservations are required
8:20 Leave Park
9:00 Commission for the Blind (12th and Washington)
9:30 Jack in the Box (82nd & Holgate)
10:00 Gresham Transit (8th & Kelly)
10:10 Carl’s Jr (8th & Burnside)
10:30 Arrive in Park
Sunday return trip
2:45 Leave Park
3:15 Carl’s Jr. (8th and Burnside)
3:20 Gresham Transit (8th and Kelly)
4:00 Jack in the Box (82nd and Holgate)
4:30 Commission for the Blind (12th and Washington)
The Value of Membership in the Oral Hull Foundation
The mission of the Oral Hull Foundation for the Blind is to provide facilities, programs and services including social, educational and recreational activities for people who are blind, visually impaired or otherwise disabled. Programs and services are designed to enhance participants physical and emotional well being through weekenders and summer camps that inspire independence and self-actualization. We do not receive governmental or United Way funding but depend for support on contributions from our members and friends.
Now is the time to show your support by renewing your membership. The Oral Hull Foundation offers two types of memberships. You have the option of becoming a life member for a one time only donation of $300 or you can purchase an annual membership at $30. Membership benefits include:
• Early registration to special programs including summer programs
• Discounts for Oral Hull programs and merchandise
• Free subscription to our newsletters
• Knowledge that you are supporting and helping others. Oral Hull Park is a unique community organization and only one of a few blind-specific retreat and conference centers in the United States.
• Determination in Oral Hull’s future. Members vote at the annual meeting for new board positions.
Your 2011 membership card can be yours by calling 503-668-6195!
Wish List
Oral Hull Park often needs items you may have access to. Below is our large item wish list. If you or someone you know has any of these items to pass along, we would be most grateful.
Copy machine (used)
Commercial patio furniture
Reliable minivan or car (used)
6 fishing poles
First aid supplies
Contact Information:
Oral Hull Foundation for the Blind
PO Box 157
Sandy, OR 97055
oralhull@teleport.com
website: Oralhull.org
DID YOU KNOW….
WebAnywhere is a web-based screen reader for the web. It requires no special software to be installed on the client machine and, therefore, enables blind people to access the web from any computer they happen to have access to that has a sound card. Visit wa.cs.washington.edu to access WebAnywhere directly. And, it’s completely FREE to use! WebAnywhere will run on any machine, even heavily locked down public terminals, regardless of what operating system it is running and regardless of what browsers are installed. WebAnywhere does not seek to replace existing screen readers – it has some big limitations, namely that it will not provide access to desktop applications like word processors or spreadsheets.
Please go to WebAnywhere Paper for more information about the system.
New Year’s Resolutions Worth Keeping
• Just for today, I will not sit in my living room all day in my pj’s. Instead, I will move my computer into the bedroom.
• I will do less laundry and use more deodorant.
• I will give up chocolates totally. 100%. Completely. Honest….
• I will balance my checkbook. (on my nose).
• I will start buying lottery tickets at a luckier store.
• I promise to stick to these resolutions for more than a week (even though I never do).
Lions Club Members Host Fundraising Event
“Give From Your Heart” – Dessert Bar and Silent Auction
What’s better than a huge selection of cakes, pies, cookies, fudge, brownies, fruit and candy? Nothing much!! Lions Club Members from the Portland Oaks Bottom and Portland Cascade will be hosting a Dessert Tasting and Silent Auction, February 12, 2011– 1:30 pm — 4 pm, Trinity United Methodist Church, corner of SE 39th & Steele. Don’t miss this great fundraising event. Place your bid for some great items from merchants, Lions Clubs and individual donors! All proceeds will be used for the new shower addition, carpeting in the hallway and new, American Disabilities Act compliant, door handles for the Philbin Dormitory. Our campers will thank you!
Ticket cost: $15.00 per person, or 2 tickets for $25.00 . Includes dessert bar, beverages, silent auction, music and short presentation on the upcoming season for Oral Hull campers and friends!
An event flyer will be sent with further information
Call Lion Club member, Sharon Elder at 503-252-1281 for advance ticket
Sandy Actors Theatre FUNDRAISERS for Oral Hull Park
Mark your Calendars!
March 5, 2011 “A Fine Monster You Are”
A wild, laugh-a-minute farce for all ages. Is there a bizarre creature of elemental horror sealed in the basement? The lunacy extends to a mindboggling climax that delights all ages. If you meet some of these characters on the street, RUN!
April 30, 2011 “The Curious Savage”
This play is a true American classic, a comedy-drama for all ages. Mrs. Savage is placed in a mental institution by her three selfish children to get control of her $100,000,000 estate. The residents of the institution will capture your heart. Be prepared for an ending that will bring smiles and tears to your eyes.
June 25, 2011 “Assisted Living”
Rich Rubin has created a lovely touching drama/comedy about the beginning stages of Alzheimer disease. Rose is a robust, active woman who resists any help to deal with her continued loss of memory. The conflicts with her family are at times hilarious and at other times sad and tender.
For reservations call: 503-668-6834.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Oral Hull Foundation for the Blind is to provide facilities, programs and services including social, educational and recreational activities for people who are blind, visually impaired or otherwise disabled.
Email:
oralhull@teleport.com
Phone: 503.668.6195
43233 SE Oral Hull Road
PO Box 157
Sandy, Oregon 97055
January-February 2011 Newsletter
Tags: board, newsletter, The View, winter
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November/December Newsletter 2010
Monday, November 15th, 2010
ORAL HULL FOUNDATION FOR THE BLIND
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER NEWSLETTER
VOLUME 7, NUMBER 4
Volunteers Keep Oral Hull’s Mission Alive and Vibrant! – By Jeff Lann, Executive Director
Research has shown that organizations that have a relevant mission and vision for their role in the community are better positioned to thrive. Mission and vision are key drivers in an organization’s ability to instill passion it its volunteers, donors and partners. As the end of the year approaches, I am writing to thank each of you for your enthusiasm and passion for the Oral Hull Foundation for the Blind.
It is truly a privilege for me to work along with so many remarkable people dedicated to Oral Hull’s mission. There are many people behind the scenes that set the services, structure and organizational tone that make the Oral Hull Foundation for the Blind what it is today. Our board of director’s, chaired by President Tom Ciesielski, has made it possible for us to develop a nationally recognized summer camp program of excellence. The winding fragrant paths of our 5 senses Garden of Enchantment, tended by Clackamas and Multnomah County garden clubs, attract visitors from near and afar and as described by a recent guest “take one’s breath away”. What would Oral Hull be like without the Oregon Lions who provide people in need of financial assistance with much needed camperships and project support? In 2010, Mountainview Christian Church members volunteered over 1500 hours beautifying our campus and getting us ready for the camping season. We are very pleased to have established a growing network of community partners including American Council of the Blind, Blind Ambition, Club Paesano, Guide Dogs for the Blind, Independent Living Resources Inc., Mt. Hood Hospice, Oregon Commission for the Blind, Portland State University, Sandy Actors Theater and the Sandy Kiwanis Club.
Your commitment and investment of time and resources is of the utmost importance. As stated by Helen Keller “Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.” Thank you for keeping the hopes and dreams alive for our participants and for investing in our life changing efforts.
Jeff
Sandy Actors Theatre Presents Benefit Play “Sylvia”
The Sandy Actors Theatre Board of Directors, Artistic Director Jim Whilhiet and the Cast and Crew of the play Sylvia, voted unanimously to donate an extra matinee to directly benefit Oral Hull and the re-roofing of the Philbin hall dormitory. The matinee was promoted and attended by primarily Lions Club members from throughout the greater Portland metro area, and netted $970. New to the Sandy Theatre is “Audio Described”, an additional narration track for blind and visually impaired consumers of visual media (including television and film, dance, opera, and visual art). It consists of a narrator talking through the presentation, describing what is happening on the stage during the natural pauses in the dialogue. All audience members agreed the play was a BIG, BIG HIT! Thank you, Sandy Actors Theatre!
The Wish List Continues…
Our wish list of “things” that are important to complete the Oral Hull tradition of providing a positive experience for everyone continues in this issue with the following needs.
1. Copy Machine—used 5. Automated External
2. Commercial patio furniture Heart Defibulator
3. Durable Lodge furniture 6. First Aid Supplies
4. Mini van or car—reliable 7. Tandem Bike
King City Lions – Add a Second Golf Cart to Oral Hull Park
In August, the King City Lions answered the need to find a golf cart to help Oral Hull participants with physical disabilities gain access to all areas in the park. Thanks to the persistent efforts of Lions club member, Mary Thibert, a golf cart was secured. Lightening sometimes does strike twice as King City Lion, Jim Armour, donated his golf cart to the Oral Hull Foundation in October. Having the first golf cart in time for our Friends and Alumni week of camp was truly a blessing and made life easier for many participants. Having two golf carts was unexpected and a true blessing! Thank you King City Lions…Again!
MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
Sandy Actors Theatre Offers 3 Plays to Benefit Oral Hull
More great plays for your viewing pleasure, presented by the Board, Cast and crew of the Sandy Actors Theatre to benefit Oral Hull’s Philbin Hall Dormitory Refurbishment and campership programs! Mark your calendars; all performances are on a Saturday and start at 2 pm. All tickets are Adults $20.00 and $10.00 children under 12 and under.
March 5, 2011 “A Fine Monster You Are”
April 30, 2011 “The Curious Savage”
June 25, 2011 “Assisted Living”
Emeritus Board Meets Hears “State of Foundation”
Oral Hull’s Emeritus Board is comprised of individuals who have served with distinction as members of the Foundation and demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities. Emeritus Board members serve as Oral Hull ambassadors within the community and act as an advisory group to the Foundation Board. Ria Ehrheart, hosted the Emeritus Board at her Beaverton home on October 22. Oral Hull President Tom Ciesielski presented his “state of the Foundation” address. Emeritus members are Patty Bessant, Margaret Breck, Joann Cairnes, Ria Ehrheart and George Morgan.
November and December OH Events
November 6, 2010 48th Annual Meeting
Join us on November 6th for our 48th annual meeting at 11:30 followed by a special lunch, $6, at noon. Everyone is invited to stay the weekend with us or come up just for the day. Transportation by the Oral Hull bus will be provided in the Portland area. For more information and to RSVP, please call 503-668-6195 or e-mail oralhull@teleport.com
November 24-26 Thanksgiving at Oral Hull Park
Enjoy your Thanksgiving holiday with friends and family at Oral Hull Park. Come up on Thanksgiving Day for our 2:00p.m. traditional feast or stay a few nights with us. This event is hosted by Park hosts, Alton Daschofsky and Becky Stewart. Cost: 2 nights and 5 meals – $20. No charge for Thanksgiving meal. Call to reserve your spot 503-668-6195. Transportation only provided by SAM (Sandy Area Metro) or STAR on Wednesday and Friday. Dial a ride by calling 503-668-3466.
December 4, 2010– Holiday Party
Holiday Party – December 4 (Please note date change – previously scheduled for December 11). We cannot let 2010 go by without a special celebration. Join us for our final Weekender of the year scheduled for December 4. We will have a holiday feast at noon, followed by special entertainment by the award winning NW Harmony Chorus. Please support Oral Hull’s canned food drive to fight hunger in the local community. Cost for three meals, round-trip transportation to Portland and Saturday night lodging is $30. Add an extra night lodging for $10. Please call to reserve your meals and transportation. 503-668-6195
As the year 2010 comes to a close, we want to wish all of you happy holidays and best wishes for a warm, relaxing and safe holiday season. We also want to extend our gratitude for your support and commitment. It’s been said before but bears repeating, the Oral Hull Foundation for the Blind is not possible without the dedication and energy from each of you. As we head into the New Year with high hopes and expectations, we hope you’ll join us for the ride! Happy Holidays!
How you can help keep the “dreams” alive
There are many ways for our volunteers and campers to help keep Oral Hull at its best presentation. Whether through volunteer and “in-kind efforts” or financial donations every gesture of support is appreciated more than words can say.
A financial commitment may not be large but it will make a difference to the continued success of our facility and programs.
There are three ways to make a financial donation: You can become a “Friend of Oral Hull for $20.00 or more (see information below). For a $30.00 annual commitment you can
become a “Member” of the Oral Or become a member of OH with voting privileges for a $30.00 fee annually. Call Executive Director Jeff Lann for additional information and benefits of being an OH member.
Or, you can make a donation of any amount towards camperships, the Philbin Hall dormitory re-roofing and shower extension projects or donate a car, trailer, RV or other motorized vehicle that can be resold. You can also urge your friends and family to donate in honor of someone living or departed.
Giving isn’t hard if the need is evident.
As one of last years campers points out “I believe all blind persons deserve to experience the beauty and fun, food and adventure, freedom and respect, that Oral Hull has brought to me. I shall forever be grateful to those who introduced me to your organization, and I look ever forward to partaking in summer camps for years to come”.
Did you know…
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a chronic condition that causes central vision loss. It affects millions of Americans. In fact, it is a leading cause of blindness in people 60 and older. The older you are, the greater your chance of being affected. That’s why it’s important to learn the symptoms of AMD now, so if you ever notice anything wrong, you can see an ophthalmologist right away.
Early Detection is the key to avoiding vision loss. AMD symptoms include blurriness, wavy lines, or a blind spot. You may also notice visual distortions such as: straight lines or faces appearing wavy, doorways seem crooked, objects appearing smaller or farther away. If you notice any of these symptoms you should see ophthalmologists as soon as possible. AMD occurs when the macula
(Central portion of the retina that is important for reading and color vision) becomes damaged. AMD is a single disease, but it can take 2 different forms: dry and wet.
Wet AMD is the more serious form, with more than 200,000 people in the United States diagnosed every year. Without treatment, patients can lose their central vision over time, leaving only peripheral, or side, vision. The symptoms can occur suddenly or gradually. Early detection and treatment can help!
Email:
oralhull@teleport.com
Phone: 503.668.6195
43233 SE Oral Hull Road
PO Box 157
Sandy, Oregon 97055
Mission Statement
the mission of the Oral Hull Foundation for the Blind is to provide facilities, programs and services including social, educational and recreational activities for people that are blind, visually impaired or otherwise disabled.
November December Newsletter 2010
Tags: newsletter, The View, winter
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Winter 2010
Wednesday, January 20th, 2010
Greetings and best wishes for the New Year! It’s hard to believe that our 2009 calendars are in the recycling bins and we have entered a new year and a new decade. To look at the Oral Hull Foundation today, one can unquestionably see that things that we planned to do are the things that we are doing.
The View – Oral Hull Foundation for the Blind
Volume 6, No 1. Winter 2010
From the Desk of Jeff Lann, Executive Director of the Oral Hull Foundation
Greetings and best wishes for the New Year! It’s hard to believe that our 2009 calendars are in the recycling bins and we have entered a new year and a new decade. To look at the Oral Hull Foundation today, one can unquestionably see that things that we planned to do are the things that we are doing.
The Oral Hull Foundation has grown in its diversity of services and its impact on a larger community of people looking for high quality programs and first-rate customer service.
Highlights of 2009 include record breaking enrollment in our summer camp program; a more active role and commitment from Lions Clubs and Kiwanis Clubs; upgrading our facility with the support of 200+ volunteers from Mountainview Christian Church; hosting the statewide convention of the American Council of the Blind; increasing the use of Oral Hull Park by community groups and undertaking a strategic planning process by our board of directors that will help establish what Oral Hull Park will look like in the immediate future.
Despite our successes, the current economic climate and an anticipated slow recovery period make for uncertain times. All of us as Oral Hull members, friends, family and sister agencies share a collective role in determining how we respond to these challenges. These are some of the questions we need to consider together:
How can we assure our financial well being so that we will continue to thrive and provide service and maintain our facility through times of both economic boom and economic bust?
How can we continue to provide to all who might need our help but do not have the financial means to pay for our services?
How can we partner with our sister agencies to provide programs and services that are friendly to the needs of the blind and low vision community?
How can we collaborate further with the broader community to advance our common goals and objectives?
As we explore these questions, we welcome your input and assistance. We are always grateful to our supporters and constituents and will continue to move forward in fulfilling our mission of service to the blind and low vision communities.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Meet Your Oral Hull Board and Executive Committee Members
The Oral Hull Foundation is pleased to welcome our newly elected board and executive board members: Tammy Alverson, Erica Daniels, Sean Rae, Don Roach and Kae Seth. Our class of 2012 has extensive experience in working with non profit agencies and bring new enthusiasm and expertise to our agency.
Elected to our Executive Board are: Tom Ciesielski, president, Dr. Gilbert Rivero, 1st vice president, Bob Sell, 2nd vice president, James McCree 3rd vice president and immediate past president, Norm Trost, treasurer, George Morgan, asst. treasurer and Sean Rae, secretary.
Continuing board members include: DJ Anderson, Alton Daschofsky, Terry Lenchitsky, Evelyn Mell and Frank Synoground.
On behalf of everyone at the Oral Hull Foundation, our heartfelt thanks to outgoing board members Ellen Elford and Colleen Utter.
2010 Summer Camp Dates Set
Believe it or not, we are working hard preparing for our 2010 camp season. We are building on our successes from last season and adding an additional session of camp for adults and a 4 day camp for families. If you enjoy friendship, fun, field trips, new experiences, great food and wonderful weather you will want to join us for 2010 – A Summer of Excellence.
Registration begins January 15th for Oral Hull members and March 1st for non members. (2010 membership fee is $20.) Call for an application or find one on our website Oralhull.org
Session 1: Adult Adventure I (recommended for outdoor novices and above. Includes a challenging white water raft trip with continuous class 3+ rapids, extended hiking options, rock climbing, etc) Includes options for skydiving and wind sailing at additional fee. Camp dates are July 24-30. $400 per person. A limited amount of financial assistance is available for Oregon residents on a needs basis.
Session 2: Adult Adventure II (recommended for newcomers to Oral Hull Park and to outdoor experiences. Includes white water rafting, hiking, beach trip, etc). Includes options for skydiving and glider flights at additional fee. Camp dates are August 1 – 7. $400 per person. A limited amount of financial assistance is available for Oregon residents on a needs basis.
Session 3: Friends and Alumni Camp (Traditional camping at its best offering a variety of activities from archery to crafts and music. Camp dates are August 9 – 15. $375 per person. A limited amount of financial assistance is available for Oregon residents on a needs basis.
Session 4: MAC Camp (Our modified adventure camp offers relaxed exploration of Oregon’s historic sites and pristine natural wonders including a trip to Palmer snowfield, elevation 8,540’ on Mt Hood. Camp dates are Tuesday, August 17 – Monday, August 23. $375 per person. A limited amount of financial assistance is available for Oregon residents on a needs basis.
Introducing our Family Camp
Family Camp is offered to families who have visually impaired children aged 17 and under and visually impaired parents with children age 17 and under. The entire family is welcome to join in the fun. Camp activities include competitions, swimming, games, camp fires and much more. The cost is $125 per adult age 18 + over and $75 per child. Camp dates are August 26-29.
In every quarterly newsletter of the View we feature an article written by an Oral Hull member. The following was submitted by Kae L. Seth.
Member perspective: What does Oral Hull Mean to Me?
Recently, the American Council of the Blind of Oregon held its statewide convention at Oral Hull Foundation for the Blind. After the convention was over, and everyone had gone, I pondered, exactly what does Oral Hull Park really mean to me?
Oral Hull Park has always been a place where blind folks have come for recreation and fun and to learn. The American Council of the Blind, of which I am a member, has been active in Oral Hull’s beginnings, and in its present efforts to bring about help to blind Oregonians. Many of our members have been active in its history, and in its programs and have often spent many hours building, making friends, fishing, and sharing their lives with friends of all kinds.
When I joined the Council in 1978, I heard of Oral Hull Park and soon came out to visit. I came to know folks like Louie and Nellie Waymire, who were active members; Louie would always remind us about Oral Hull; what was happening, and how beautiful the grounds were. Many of us came on weekends to get away from the rat race of Portland; we took our guide dogs on long hikes, and often went down to the lower level where we could turn our dogs’ loose to romp and play with one another.
I came to know special people who loved Oral Hull and made it a part of their lives. Jeff Cohen, Martha Hawthorn and others were often there and we spent a lot of time just having fun.
Oral Hull always represented a place where blind folks could come and have fun; it seemed to be a place where we shared ideas; laughed a lot, and ate a lot too—kind of like now.
I believe that just as the American Council of the Blind was involved when I first joined, we can be participating in the realization of dreams and help create a new vision for the future of this great foundation. I hope, that even though many of my old friends who were here are gone, we can rekindle friendships, and create new memories that will bring about a transformation from the past; I look forward to the time when we can make this a place of learning; healing and hope. Each of us has an opportunity to be a part of history.
Bailey my guide dog and I look forward to getting to know all of you; we hope that we can make new friends and rekindle old friendships. Let’s make Oral Hull Park ring with laughter, blaze with beauty and be a place of peace and restoration for everyone.
I hope that you’ll share your ideas with us, so that we can all learn from one another. Just as I came to know about Oral Hull from its pioneers, I hope that I can help folks blaze new trails and bring about the making of dreams for blind and sighted folks for years to come.
Please come and say hi to Bailey and I, when we’re here so we can get to know you. Isn’t that what Oral Hull is all about?
Oral Hull Members in the News
Larry Johnson’s book, You Can if you Think You Can, can now be ordered online by visiting www.booksurge.com. This book is a very inspiring step-by-step approach to achieving one’s goals and rebounding from adversity. Larry attended our Explore Oregon Camp this past summer and is from San Antonio, Texas. He is a nationally known motivational speaker and also the author of Mexico by Touch: True Life Experiences of a Blind American Deejay.
Rexanne Millard, competing as a team member of Portland Blind Bowlers League won four awards for scoring accomplishments. “Rexie” also competes in the Special Olympics bocce ball tournament and won a silver medal in her last outing. Rexi is from Portland
Calendar Briefs Winter Weekenders
February 5-7 Weekender and Winter Mini-Camp
Enjoy three days and two nights of winter fun and warm fellowship at our first weekender of 2010. Optional activities include snow shoeing on Friday ($10), inner tubing on Saturday ($5) and down hill skiing on Sunday ($55). Relax in our spa and enjoy and evening of special entertainment on Saturday night.
Advanced registration for outdoor activities, January 22, is required. Basic prices for our February weekender: Member rate housing: $10 Dorm or $15 trailer per night. Non-member rate housing: $20 Dorm or $25 trailer per night. The price for each meal: dinner $8, Lunch $6, Brunch $7. Minimum numbers required for the winter activities and Friday night and Saturday brunch meals.
Contact Jeff Lann for additional information 503-668-6195.
March 5-7 Weekender
Member Weekender: $10 Dorm or $15 Trailer per night plus $21 for 3 meals. Non-Member Weekender $20 Dorm or $25 per night Trailer plus $21 3 meals.
Transportation to Oral Hull Weekend Events
To prepare for the visit of our Weekender members and guests we require advanced registration for everyone. The Oral Hull Foundation provides free round trip transportation to our monthly Weekenders from the Portland area. Our bus, however, has limited space and wheelchair availability. Seventy two hour advanced notice is required for us to accommodate requests for a wheelchair spot. Everyone should make reservations as we will not pick up at all designated pickup spots unless we have a confirmed passenger.
Each member is permitted to bring one medium sized suitcase (not exceeding 20 pounds) and two small pieces of hand/carry on luggage on the Oral Hull bus (to be carried on your seat). Necessary medical devices are excluded.
2010 Transportation Schedule & Membership information
Saturday Morning Run Reservations are required
8:20 Leave Park
9:00 Commission for the Blind (12th and Washington)
9:30 Jack in the Box (82nd & Holgate)
10:00 Gresham Transit (8th & Kelly)
10:10 Carl’s Jr (8th & Burnside)
10:30 Arrive in Park
Sunday return trip
2:45 Leave Park
3:15 Carl’s Jr. (8th and Burnside)
3:20 Gresham Transit (8th and Kelly)
4:00 Jack in the Box (82nd and Holgate)
4:30 Commission for the Blind (12th and Washington)
The Value of Membership in the Oral Hull Foundation
The mission of the Oral Hull Foundation for the Blind is to provide facilities, programs and services including social, educational and recreational activities for people that are blind, visually impaired or otherwise disabled.
Programs and services are designed to enhance participants physical and emotional well being through weekenders and summer camps that inspire independence and self-actualization. We do not receive governmental or United Way funding but depend for support on contributions from our members and friends.
Now is the time to show your support by renewing your membership. The Oral Hull Foundation offers two types of memberships. You have the option of becoming a life member for a one time only donation of $200 or you can purchase an annual membership at $20. Membership benefits include:
- Early registration to special programs including summer camps
- Discounts for Oral Hull programs and merchandise
- Free subscription to our quarterly newsletter
- Knowledge that you are supporting and helping others. Oral Hull Park is a unique community organization and only one of a few blind-specific retreat and conference centers in the United States.
- Determination in Oral Hull’s future. Members vote at the annual meeting for new board positions.
Your 2010 membership card can be yours by calling 503-668-6195.
Wish List
Oral Hull Park often needs items you may have access to. Below is our large item wish list. If you or someone you know has any of these items to pass along, we would be most grateful.
Copy machine (used)
Commercial patio furniture
Golf Cart (used)
Lounge Furniture
Reliable minivan or car (used)
Contact Information:
Oral Hull Foundation for the Blind
PO Box 157
Sandy, OR 97055
oralhull@teleport.com
website: OralHull.org
The mission of the Oral Hull Foundation for the Blind is to provide facilities, programs and services including social, educational and recreational activities for people that are blind, visually impaired or otherwise disabled.
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