AUGUST 2014

The Science Factory Children’s Museum & Exploration Dome will showcase its Summer of Small exhibit through Sept. 15. At this exhibit, kids will be able to explore the world at the nanoscale. How small is the nanoscale?  Well, a sheet of paper is about 100,000 nanometers thick, so a nanoscale is really, really small! To see museum hours and admission prices, visit The Science Factory.

 

The Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art and the Museum of Natural and Cultural History offer free admission on Fri., Aug. 1 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Both museums are located on the University of Oregon campus. Visit the museum’s websites for information on current exhibits and museum locations.

 

Come see the children’s classic The Jungle Book as it is presented by The Mad Ducklings Children’s Theatre on Fri., Aug. 1 at 11 a.m. on the south lawn of the Amazon Community Center, located at 2700 Hilyard St. in Eugene. The performance is $5, and it’s filled with plenty of audience interaction and fun for ages 3 years and up. To learn more, visit the Mad Ducklings Children’s Theatre.

 

The Oregon Family Support Network hosts a monthly Respite Night for parents and caregivers of children and youth with emotional, behavioral, mental and/or physical challenges and special needs. This month’s Respite Night will take place on Fri., Aug. 1 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Children have access to movies, Wii, crafts, coloring, free play and games while the adults get a much needed rest. Children are supervised and interact with trained youth activity leaders and OFSN staff. Dinner and a snack are provided. This is a popular event and fills up fast! Preregistration is required. To RSVP, call 541-342-2876.

 

The A Team Justice League, a grassroots organization of families who have a family member who experiences autism or another disability, will host a Night Out for parents on Fri., Aug. 1 at El Torito restaurant, located at 1003 Valley River Way in Eugene. Visit the A Team Justice League on Facebook or on the Web to learn more about this organization. To connect with an A Team representative, contact Amy Rayfield.

 

Willamalane Park and Recreation District will host Movies in the Park on Friday evenings in August. A League of Their Own (Rated PG) will be the featured film on Fri., Aug. 1 at 8:30 p.m. at Royal Delle Park, located at 401 Blackstone St. Bring a blanket and lawn chairs. Admission is free. Concessions will be available for purchase.

 

The City of Eugene Recreation Services will host a free Movie in the Park on Fri., Aug. 1 at 9 p.m. at Willakenzie Park, located at 1725 Best Ln. The featured movie will be Jurassic Park (Rated PG-13).

 

The City of Eugene Recreation Services will host a free First Saturday Park Walk for all ages on Sat., Aug. 2 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Spencer Butte Trailhead (meet at the trailhead parking lot at 52nd & Willamette St.). Naturalists from the City of Eugene Outdoor Program will lead this interpretive walk. For questions, call 541-682-5329.

 

The Home Depot hosts free monthly Kids Workshops the first Saturday of each month. This month’s workshop will take place on Sat., Aug. 2 from 9 a.m. to noon. Kids will build a mini-crate pencil holder. Kids workshop activities are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. To learn more and to register for the workshop, visit The Home Depot Kids Workshops.

 

The Eugene Active 20-30 Club, in partnership with the Eugene Airport, will host a 5K Race and Air Fair on the runway of the Eugene Airport, located at 28801 Douglas Dr. There will also be a free kids fun run at 9:15 a.m. To see the schedule of events and register, visit 5K on the Runway.

 

Learn how to sand sculpt from the masters at a free Sand Sculpting Clinic on Sat., Aug. 2 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Sand Master Park, located at 5351 Hwy. 101 in Florence. To learn more, visit Sand Master Park.

 

Come see the children’s classic The Jungle Book as it is presented by The Mad Ducklings Children’s Theatre on Sat., Aug. 2 at 11 a.m. on the south lawn of the Amazon Community Center, located at 2700 Hilyard St. in Eugene. The performance is $5, and it’s filled with plenty of audience interaction and fun for ages 3 years and up. To learn more, visit the Mad Ducklings Children’s Theatre.

 

Kids and families are invited to the Materials Exchange Center for Community Arts (MECCA) every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to make a creative reuse project. From magnetic puzzles to robot rockets to sock creatures, there’s always a fun, all-ages craft project for kids and families each Saturday. There is no need to preregister, and all materials are included for each workshop. A $3 to $5 sliding scale donation is requested per child. Children under 10 should be accompanied by an adult. MECCA is located at 449 Willamette St. in Eugene.

 

Bridgeway House will host Happy Haircuts on Sat., Aug. 2 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Wesley United Methodist Church, located at 1385 Oakway Rd. in Eugene. Children can get a no-tears haircut for $12, and they will create a special fidget toy. Please make sure hair is clean before scheduled haircut. Call 541-912-8150 or email Cindy for a reserved time. Walk-ins are welcome!

 

Come to the Springfield Public Library on Sat., Aug. 2 at 1 p.m. for a hilarious story time featuring favorite summertime songs and stories by author, Mo Willems. Great for children of all-ages, and admission is free. The Springfield Public Library is located at 225 N. 5th St.

 

The Portland Children’s Museum will open its doors for a special evening to children with any type of special need, their family and friends on Sat., Aug. 2 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The museum is located at 4015 SW Canyon Rd. in Portland. Preregistration is required. Visit Family & Friends Access Night at the Museum to register.

 

The City of Eugene Recreation Services will host a free Movie in the Park on Sat., Aug. 2 at 9 p.m. at Amazon Park, located at 22 Amazon Pkwy. The featured movie will be Breaking Away (PG).

 

The Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) will host a Town Hall Meeting: Planning for Safety, Health and Independence on Mon., Aug. 4 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Lane Community College’s Center for Meeting and Learning located at 4000 E. 30th Ave. in Eugene. Parents are invited to provide input and feedback to DHS on its priorities and strategic direction for 2015-17 and beyond in the following areas: Child Welfare, Aging and People with Disabilities, Intellectual/Developmental Disability Services, Self Sufficiency Programs (SNAP, TANF, ERDC), Vocational Rehabilitation and other human services issues.

DHS hopes to accomplish  two goals at its statewide Town Hall meetings. First, DHS wants to report on progress toward its long-term goals and its strategic efforts. Second, DHS wants parents thoughts and ideas as it plans for the next two years of work. If parents cannot attend the Aug. 4 meeting in Eugene,  there will also be a web-based meeting on Thurs., Aug. 7 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. To RSVP, email DHS with “Eugene” noted in the subject field. To RSVP for the web-based meeting, email DHS with “Web” noted in the subject field.

 

Early Childhood CARES will host part 5 of its Summer Behavior Training on Mon., Aug. 4 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in room 145 of the Clinical Services Building at the University of Oregon, 901 E. 18th Ave., Eugene. This is a five-week training to help parents learn effective behavior support strategies. Early Childhood CARES will offer another behavior training in the fall. Watch for dates in next month’s newsletter.

 

Regal Entertainment Group will host its 2014 Summer Movie Express on Tuesdays and Wednesdays throughout the summer. Regal will show Turbo (Rated PG) on Aug. 5 at 10 a.m. Admission to the film is $1, and a portion of the proceeds will go to the Will Rogers Institute. To learn more, visit Summer Movie Express.

 

Come see the children’s classic The Jungle Book as it is presented by The Mad Ducklings Children’s Theatre on Tues., Aug. 5 at 11 a.m. on the south lawn of the Amazon Community Center, located at 2700 Hilyard St. in Eugene. The performance is $5, and it’s filled with plenty of audience interaction and fun for ages 3 years and up. To learn more, visit the Mad Ducklings Children’s Theatre.

 

The Arc Families Connected will host an Out & About at Bounce Gymnastics for children with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and their siblings every Tuesday from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. The group of volunteers will not be there to help during the summer months. Parents must remain on site while their children play. The cost is $3 per child. For more information, contact Sydney Shook at 541-343-5256 ext. 113.

 

Regal Entertainment Group will host its 2014 Summer Movie Express on Tuesdays and Wednesdays throughout the summer. Regal will show Walking with Dinosaurs (Rated PG) on Aug. 6 at 10 a.m. Admission to the film is $1, and a portion of the proceeds will go to the Will Rogers Institute. To learn more, visit Summer Movie Express.

 

Come see the children’s classic The Jungle Book as it is presented by The Mad Ducklings Children’s Theatre on Wed., Aug. 6 at 11 a.m. on the south lawn of the Amazon Community Center, located at 2700 Hilyard St. in Eugene. The performance is $5, and it’s filled with plenty of audience interaction and fun for ages 3 years and up. To learn more, visit the Mad Ducklings Children’s Theatre.

 

The Eugene Public Library hosts Sensory Story Time every Wednesday at 1 p.m. at the downtown branch, located at 100 W. 10th Ave. This is a special story time for kids of all ages with sensory integration issues or other special needs and their caregivers.

 

The 54th annual Scandinavian Festival will run August 7 through August 10 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in downtown Junction City (6th and Greenwood). Each day of the festival celebrates a different Scandinavian country: Thursday is Norwegian Day, Friday is Swedish Day, Saturday is Danish Day and Sunday is Finnish Day. Admission and entertainment is free; visitors pay only for food or craft items.

 

Come see the children’s classic The Jungle Book as it is presented by The Mad Ducklings Children’s Theatre on Thurs., Aug. 7 at 11 a.m. on the south lawn of the Amazon Community Center, located at 2700 Hilyard St. in Eugene. The performance is $5, and it’s filled with plenty of audience interaction and fun for ages 3 years and up. To learn more, visit the Mad Ducklings Children’s Theatre.

 

Come to the fountain plaza outside the Springfield Public Library for Spanish Story Time on Thurs., Aug. 7 at 1 p.m. There will be fun stories and songs in Spanish and English, plus kids can make a craft! This is a free event for children of all-ages. The Springfield Public Library is located at 225 N. 5th St.

 

The last day of summer services for Early Childhood CARES is Fri., Aug. 8. We hope you continue to enjoy a safe and happy summer! We look forward to welcoming kids back to school in September. To see next year’s school calendar, visit Early Childhood CARES 2014-2015 Services Calendar.

 

The 54th annual Scandinavian Festival will run August 7 through August 10 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in downtown Junction City (6th and Greenwood). Each day of the festival celebrates a different Scandinavian country: Thursday is Norwegian Day, Friday is Swedish Day, Saturday is Danish Day and Sunday is Finnish Day. Admission and entertainment is free; visitors pay only for food or craft items.

 

Parents and preschool-age children are invited to the Museum of Natural and Cultural History (MNCH) at the University of Oregon on Fri., Aug. 8 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. for stories and hands-on fun, including crafts, songs, games and museum exploration. The theme of this month’s Little Wonders is “Terrific Teeth,” with a reading of What if You Had Animal Teeth? by Sandra Markle, plus a variety of fun activities. Admission for a family of four is $5 and is free for museum members. Little Wonders is hosted the second Friday of every month at MNCH, located at 1680 East 15th Ave. in Eugene.

 

Come see the children’s classic The Jungle Book as it is presented by The Mad Ducklings Children’s Theatre on Fri., Aug. 8 at 11 a.m. on the south lawn of the Amazon Community Center, located at 2700 Hilyard St. in Eugene. The performance is $5, and it’s filled with plenty of audience interaction and fun for ages 3 years and up. To learn more, visit the Mad Ducklings Children’s Theatre.

 

Chalk Fest, the first annual chalk art festival, will take place Fri., Aug. 8 at Springfield City Hall, located at 225 N. 5th St. Come watch professional artists create large chalk drawings. The art will start at 11 a.m. and judging will start at 5 p.m. There will be music, street performers, a family fun zone and a food market. To learn more, visit Chalk Fest.

 

Willamalane Park and Recreation District will host Movies in the Park on Friday evenings in August. The Blind Side (Rated PG-13) will be the featured film on Fri., Aug. 8 at 8:30 p.m. at Fort Park, located at 300 58th St. Bring a blanket and lawn chairs. Admission is free. Concessions will be available for purchase.

 

The City of Eugene Recreation Services will host a free Movie in the Park on Fri., Aug. 8 at 9 p.m. at University Park, located at 2300 University St. The featured movie will be Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (Rated G).

 

Go on a creepy-crawly bug safari in the Walama Butterfly Meadow of Alton Baker Park! Nearby Nature will host a Bugs By the Billion Nature Quest Sat., Aug. 9 from 10 a.m. to noon at 100 Day Island Rd. in Eugene. Kids will use butterfly nets, magnifiers, bug barns and more to catch and learn about all sorts of cool critters. The events is free for members, and $2 per person or $5 per family for non-members. Preregistration is required. To register, call 541-687-9699.

 

The 54th annual Scandinavian Festival will run August 7 through August 10 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in downtown Junction City (6th and Greenwood). Each day of the festival celebrates a different Scandinavian country: Thursday is Norwegian Day, Friday is Swedish Day, Saturday is Danish Day and Sunday is Finnish Day. Admission and entertainment is free; visitors pay only for food or craft items.

 

The Mary Cole Day Annual Parade will take place on Sat., Aug. 9 at 10 a.m. at the Mohawk Fire Station, located at 92068 Marcola Rd. This annual event features a local parade, a variety of fun activities to enjoy, food vendors and game booths. Live music and entertainment will be featured in the evening.

 

Come see the children’s classic The Jungle Book as it is presented by The Mad Ducklings Children’s Theatre on Sat., Aug. 9 at 11 a.m. on the south lawn of the Amazon Community Center, located at 2700 Hilyard St. in Eugene. The performance is $5, and it’s filled with plenty of audience interaction and fun for ages 3 years and up. To learn more, visit the Mad Ducklings Children’s Theatre.

 

Kids and families are invited to the Materials Exchange Center for Community Arts (MECCA) every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to make a creative reuse project. From magnetic puzzles to robot rockets to sock creatures, there’s always a fun, all-ages craft project for kids and families each Saturday. There is no need to preregister, and all materials are included for each workshop. A $3 to $5 sliding scale donation is requested per child. Children under 10 should be accompanied by an adult. MECCA is located at 449 Willamette St. in Eugene.

 

The 54th annual Scandinavian Festival will run August 7 through August 10 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in downtown Junction City (6th and Greenwood). Each day of the festival celebrates a different Scandinavian country: Thursday is Norwegian Day, Friday is Swedish Day, Saturday is Danish Day and Sunday is Finnish Day. Admission and entertainment is free; visitors pay only for food or craft items.

 

Regal Entertainment Group will host its 2014 Summer Movie Express on Tuesdays and Wednesdays throughout the summer. Regal will show Mr. Peabody & Sherman (Rated PG) on Aug. 12 at 10 a.m. Admission to the film is $1, and a portion of the proceeds will go to the Will Rogers Institute. To learn more, visit Summer Movie Express.

 

The Arc Families Connected will host an Out & About at Bounce Gymnastics for children with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and their siblings every Tuesday from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. The group of volunteers will not be there to help during the summer months. Parents must remain on site while their children play. The cost is $3 per child. For more information, contact Sydney Shook at 541-343-5256 ext. 113.

 

Raptors at the Ranch, an event for all ages, will take place on Tues., Aug. 12 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Dorris Ranch, located at 205 Dorris St. in Springfield. The Cascades Raptor Center will present an educational presentation about raptors, their habitats, life cycles, predators and their prey. Attendees will also meet a live raptor and build their own birdhouse. The cost is $10. Preregistration is required. Call the Willamalane Park and Recreation District at 541-736-4544 to register.

 

The Village Green Resort and Gardens will host Movie in the Garden on Tues., Aug. 12. Doors will open at 7 p.m. and the show will begin at dusk in the garden. Well-behaved pets on a leash are welcome. Food, snacks and beverages will be available for purchase. Please, no outside food or drinks. Bring blankets, pillows and sweaters to keep warm after the sun goes down. Chairs are allowed, but guests with chairs are asked to sit in the back and let guests on blankets sit up front. Admission is $2, and free for kids 10 and under. The featured movie will be Jurassic Park (Rated PG-13). The Village Green Resort and Gardens is located at 725 Row River Rd. in Cottage Grove.

 

Regal Entertainment Group will host its 2014 Summer Movie Express on Tuesdays and Wednesdays throughout the summer. Regal will show Rio 2 (Rated G) on Aug. 13 at 10 a.m. Admission to the film is $1, and a portion of the proceeds will go to the Will Rogers Institute. To learn more, visit Summer Movie Express.

 

The Eugene Public Library hosts Sensory Story Time every Wednesday at 1 p.m. at the downtown branch, located at 100 W. 10th Ave. This is a special story time for kids of all ages with sensory integration issues or other special needs and their caregivers.

 

The McKenzie River Chainsaw Festival is a three-day event where master wood carvers create memorable wood sculptures celebrating the McKenzie River heritage. The festival will run Thurs., Aug. 14 through Sun., Aug. 17 from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. at McKenzie Community Track & Field, 51480 Blue River Dr. in Vida. There will be daily carving auctions, activities for kids, a classic car display, free tree climbing with Pacific Tree Climbing Institute, craft booths, and food and beverages. Admission is $3. Children under 12 years are free.

 

Bags of Love, a local organization that helps children in crisis, will host a Picnic and Play Day at the Park on Thurs., Aug. 14 from noon to 4 p.m. at Emerald Park, located at 1400 Lake Dr. in Eugene. The day will be filled with games, face painting, a bean bag toss, hot dogs, snow cones and laughter. For more information, email Kathryn Gaines or call 541-357-4957.

 

Come to the fountain plaza outside the Springfield Public Library for Spanish Story Time on Thurs., Aug. 14 at 1 p.m. There will be fun stories and songs in Spanish and English, plus kids can make a craft! This is a free event for children of all-ages. The Springfield Public Library is located at 225 N. 5th St.

 

Valley River Center will host a Kids Club on Thurs., Aug. 14 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. at 293 Valley River Center in Eugene. This month’s meeting will focus on insects, and kids will learn about ladybugs, dragonflies, fireflies and more. Kids Club is free and is geared for children ages 4 to 10 years.

 

The City of Eugene will host a Family Fun Night on Thurs., Aug. 14 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Petersen Barn Community Center, located at 870 Berntzen Rd. in Eugene. Dinner will be served until 6:30 p.m. There will also be games, crafts and live entertainment. This is a free, drop-in program; no registration is required.

 

The McKenzie River Chainsaw Festival is a three-day event where master wood carvers create memorable wood sculptures celebrating the McKenzie River heritage. The festival will run Thurs., Aug. 14 through Sun., Aug. 17 from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. at McKenzie Community Track & Field, 51480 Blue River Dr. in Vida. There will be daily carving auctions, activities for kids, a classic car display, free tree climbing with Pacific Tree Climbing Institute, craft booths, and food and beverages. Admission is $3. Children under 12 years are free.

 

The Oregon Family Support Network hosts a monthly Family Support Meeting the third Friday of every month for families of children and youth who experience mental, emotional, behavioral and/or physical special needs. The Family Support Meeting will take place on Fri., Aug. 15 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Emerald Park Pool, located at 1400 Lake Dr. in Eugene. Kids can swim for free and a light snack will be provided. Preregistration is required. To RSVP, call 541-342-2876.

 

Grab the family and enjoy some recreation time together in the gym, pool and playground at Family Fit Friday on Fri., Aug. 15 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Sheldon Community Center, located at 2445 Willakenzie Rd. Families will enjoy a free end of the summer BBQ, a Slip ‘N Slide and open gym. Swimming is available for a fee ($3.75/adult, $3.25/child or $7.50/family). This is a drop-in program; preregistration is not needed. For questions, call 541-682-5312.

 

Willamalane Park and Recreation District will host Movies in the Park on Friday evenings in August. The Goonies (Rated PG) will be the featured film on Fri., Aug. 15 at 8:30 p.m. at Ruff Park, located at 66th St. Bring a blanket and lawn chairs. Admission is free. Concessions will be available for purchase.

 

The City of Eugene Recreation Services will host a free Movie in the Park on Fri., Aug. 15 at 9 p.m. at Churchill Sports Park, located at 2120 Bailey Hill Rd. The featured movie will be Space Jam (Rated PG).

 

The McKenzie River Chainsaw Festival is a three-day event where master wood carvers create memorable wood sculptures celebrating the McKenzie River heritage. The festival will run Thurs., Aug. 14 through Sun., Aug. 17 from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. at McKenzie Community Track & Field, 51480 Blue River Dr. in Vida. There will be daily carving auctions, activities for kids, a classic car display, free tree climbing with Pacific Tree Climbing Institute, craft booths, and food and beverages. Admission is $3. Children under 12 years are free.

 

Learn how to sand sculpt from the masters at a free Sand Sculpting Clinic on Sat., Aug. 16 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Sand Master Park, located at 5351 Hwy. 101 in Florence. To learn more, visit Sand Master Park.

 

Kids Create! Eugene is a special, one-day event on Sat., Aug. 16 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the plaza areas of the Hult Center for the Performing Arts and the Hilton Eugene and Conference Center (66 E. 6th Ave.). The event will showcase youth performing arts and provide hands-on arts opportunities just for kids. The event is free and open to kids of all ages and abilities.

 

Kids and families are invited to the Materials Exchange Center for Community Arts (MECCA) every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to make a creative reuse project. From magnetic puzzles to robot rockets to sock creatures, there’s always a fun, all-ages craft project for kids and families each Saturday. There is no need to preregister, and all materials are included for each workshop. A $3 to $5 sliding scale donation is requested per child. Children under 10 should be accompanied by an adult. MECCA is located at 449 Willamette St. in Eugene.

 

The Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art will host an ArtAccess Workshop for Children with Special Needs on Sat., Aug. 16 from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. This is a free, drop-in art class for children in grades K-12 with developmental, emotional and physical disabilities. The class will be taught by occupational therapists and artists. Reservations are requested. Email Nori Rice or call 541-346-6443 to register. Visit ArtAccess VSA for more information.

 

The City of Eugene Recreation Services will host a free Movie in the Park on Sat., Aug. 16 at 9 p.m. at Petersen Park, located at 870 Berntzen Rd. The featured movie will be Space Jam (Rated PG-13) in Spanish.

 

Families are invited to take a Star Hike on Sat., Aug. 16 from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Dorris Ranch, located at 205 Dorris St. in Springfield. Learn about constellations from members of the Eugene Astronomical Society, and view planets through large telescopes. Please bring a small flashlight or headlamp, as well as comfortable walking shoes. The cost is $3. Preregistration is required. To register, call the Willamalane Park and Recreation District at 541-736-4544.

 

The McKenzie River Chainsaw Festival is a three-day event where master wood carvers create memorable wood sculptures celebrating the McKenzie River heritage. The festival will run Thurs., Aug. 14 through Sun., Aug. 17 from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. at McKenzie Community Track & Field, 51480 Blue River Dr. in Vida. There will be daily carving auctions, activities for kids, a classic car display, free tree climbing with Pacific Tree Climbing Institute, craft booths, and food and beverages. Admission is $3. Children under 12 years are free.

 

The Arc Families Connected will host an Out & About at Bounce Gymnastics for children with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and their siblings every Tuesday from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. The group of volunteers will not be there to help during the summer months. Parents must remain on site while their children play. The cost is $3 per child. For more information, contact Sydney Shook at 541-343-5256 ext. 113.

 

The Village Green Resort and Gardens will host Movie in the Garden on Tues., Aug. 19. Doors will open at 7 p.m. and the show will begin at dusk in the garden. Well-behaved pets on a leash are welcome. Food, snacks and beverages will be available for purchase. Please, no outside food or drinks. Bring blankets, pillows and sweaters to keep warm after the sun goes down. Chairs are allowed, but guests with chairs are asked to sit in the back and let guests on blankets sit up front. Admission is $2, and free for kids 10 and under. The featured movie will be Back to the Future (Rated PG). The Village Green Resort and Gardens is located at 725 Row River Rd. in Cottage Grove.

 

The Eugene Public Library hosts Sensory Story Time every Wednesday at 1 p.m. at the downtown branch, located at 100 W. 10th Ave. This is a special story time for kids of all ages with sensory integration issues or other special needs and their caregivers.

 

A Plein Air Paint Out Competition will be held on Wed., Aug. 20 from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Families are invited to view the artwork created from the competition from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Kesey Square, located at 2 E. Broadway (and Willamette St.). There will be live music and a kids do-it-yourself art station.

 

Come to the fountain plaza outside the Springfield Public Library for Spanish Story Time on Thurs., Aug. 21 at 1 p.m. There will be fun stories and songs in Spanish and English, plus kids can make a craft! This is a free event for children of all-ages. The Springfield Public Library is located at 225 N. 5th St.

 

Curious about camping, but it’s not something you’ve tried? The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department will host a Let’s Go Camping weekend Aug. 22 through Aug. 24 at Jesse Honeyman Memorial State Park, located at 84505 Hwy. 101 S. in Florence. The cost is $30 per family. The tents, sleeping bags and other essentials for the journey will be provided with the cost of admission. Experts will be present to help around the clock with any questions you may have. There will be lots of fun activities for adults and kids to experience throughout the trip. Space is limited; preregistration is required. To get more information or register, call Reservations Northwest at 888-953-7677 or email Oregon Parks and Recreation Department Reservations.

 

Festival of Eugene is a first year event celebrating the uniqueness and diversity of Eugene. There will be artisans, demonstrations, face painting, balloons, live bands and all the fun and funky that Eugene has to offer! The event t begins at 4 p.m. on Fri., Aug. 22 with live music until 8 p.m. and movies under the stars by The David Minor Theater at dusk. The event will continue on Sat., Aug. 23 at 11 a.m. with live music and entertainment on three stages until 10 p.m. The festival will take place at 5th Ave. & Pearl St. in Eugene.

 

The Arc Families Connected will host an end of summer BBQ on Fri., Aug. 22 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. under shelter B at Lively Park, located at 6100 Thurston Rd. in Springfield.  A complete BBQ dinner for the entire family will be provided, including hamburgers, hot dogs, Popsicles & more! To help with food planning, please RSVP by sending an email to Sydney Shook.

 

The Oregon Family Support Network hosts a monthly Family Fun Night the fourth Friday of every month for families with children who experience mental, emotional, behavioral and/or physical special needs. Family Fun Night will be held on Fri., Aug. 22 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Skate World, located at 3188 Gateway Lp. in Springfield. Children must be supervised by their parent or caregiver. The cost is $1 for roller skates or $4 for inline skates.

 

Willamalane Park and Recreation District will host Movies in the Park on Friday evenings in August. Finding Nemo (Rated G) will be the featured film on Fri., Aug. 22 at 8:30 p.m. at Island Park, located at 200 W. B St. Bring a blanket and lawn chairs. Admission is free. Concessions will be available for purchase.

 

The City of Eugene Recreation Services will host a free Movie in the Park on Fri., Aug. 22 at 9 p.m. at Washington Park, located at 2025 Washington St. The featured movie will be Wall-E (Rated G).

 

Curious about camping, but it’s not something you’ve tried? The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department will host a Let’s Go Camping weekend Aug. 22 through Aug. 24 at Jesse Honeyman Memorial State Park, located at 84505 Hwy. 101 S. in Florence. The cost is $30 per family. The tents, sleeping bags and other essentials for the journey will be provided with the cost of admission. Experts will be present to help around the clock with any questions you may have. There will be lots of fun activities for adults and kids to experience throughout the trip. Space is limited; preregistration is required. To get more information or register, call Reservations Northwest at 888-953-7677 or email Oregon Parks and Recreation Department Reservations.

 

Challenge Air, a program that seeks to build self-esteem and confidence in children and youth with specials needs through the experience of flight, will host a Fly Day Event on Sat., Aug. 23 starting at 8 a.m. at the Historic Flight Museum in Everett, WA. To learn more, visit Challenge Air.

 

Kids and families are invited to the Materials Exchange Center for Community Arts (MECCA) every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to make a creative reuse project. From magnetic puzzles to robot rockets to sock creatures, there’s always a fun, all-ages craft project for kids and families each Saturday. There is no need to preregister, and all materials are included for each workshop. A $3 to $5 sliding scale donation is requested per child. Children under 10 should be accompanied by an adult. MECCA is located at 449 Willamette St. in Eugene.

 

Festival of Eugene is a first year event celebrating the uniqueness and diversity of Eugene. There will be artisans, demonstrations, face painting, balloons, live bands and all the fun and funky that Eugene has to offer! The event begins at 11 a.m. with live music and entertainment on three stages until 10 p.m. The festival will take place at 5th Ave. & Pearl St. in Eugene.

 

The Arc Families Connected will host an Out & About at Bounce Gymnastics for children with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and their siblings every Tuesday from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. The group of volunteers will not be there to help during the summer months. Parents must remain on site while their children play. The cost is $3 per child. For more information, contact Sydney Shook at 541-343-5256 ext. 113.

 

Dogs and their humans are invited to the Museum of Natural and Cultural History for Dog Days of Summer on Tues., Aug. 26 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. for a celebration of all things canine! Families will get to make their own dog toys, get to know dog-friendly businesses and explore dog evolution with a lecture at 7 p.m. The museum is located at 1680 E 15th Ave. in Eugene.

 

The Village Green Resort and Gardens will host Movie in the Garden on Tues., Aug. 26. Doors will open at 7 p.m. and the show will begin at dusk in the garden. Well-behaved pets on a leash are welcome. Food, snacks and beverages will be available for purchase. Please, no outside food or drinks. Bring blankets, pillows and sweaters to keep warm after the sun goes down. Chairs are allowed, but guests with chairs are asked to sit in the back and let guests on blankets sit up front. Admission is $2, and free for kids 10 and under. The featured movie will be The Goonies (Rated PG). The Village Green Resort and Gardens is located at 725 Row River Rd. in Cottage Grove.

 

The Eugene Public Library hosts Sensory Story Time every Wednesday at 1 p.m. at the downtown branch, located at 100 W. 10th Ave. This is a special story time for kids of all ages with sensory integration issues or other special needs and their caregivers.

 

The Campbell Community Center will host a Neighborhood Ice Cream Social from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at 155 High St. Enjoy free ice cream, music and view plein air paintings.

 

Come enjoy a free summer barbeque! The Oregon Family Support Network (OFSN) will host its Annual Picnic on Fri., Aug. 29 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Emerald Park, located at 1400 Lake Dr. OFSN helps families, children and youth who experience mental, emotional, behavioral and/or physical challenges. OFSN will provide hamburgers, hot dogs, condiments, potato salad, macaroni salad, chips, water and cookies. Families may bring a dish to share, but it is not required. The park has a playground for the children to enjoy. Families must RSVP in advance to ensure there is enough food. To RSVP, please call Diana at 541-342-2876.

 

The City of Eugene will host free Farewell to Summer Swims on Fri., August 29 for all ages. The Echo Hollow Pool, located at 1655 Echo Hollow Rd., will have its free recreation swim from 1:10 p.m. to 3:40 p.m. The Sheldon Pool,  at 2443 Willakenzie Rd., will have its free swim from 1:40 p.m. to 3:40 p.m. The Amazon Pool, located at 2600 Hilyard St., will be open from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

 

Kids and families are invited to the Materials Exchange Center for Community Arts (MECCA) every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to make a creative reuse project. From magnetic puzzles to robot rockets to sock creatures, there’s always a fun, all-ages craft project for kids and families each Saturday. There is no need to preregister, and all materials are included for each workshop. A $3 to $5 sliding scale donation is requested per child. Children under 10 should be accompanied by an adult. MECCA is located at 449 Willamette St. in Eugene.

 

There will be a Skate Competition for kids of all ages and all abilities on Sat., Aug. 30 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Bethel Community Park, located at 5700 Babe Ruth Ln. in Eugene. Registration will start at 4 p.m., and the cost is $5 to register. Anyone can watch for free. Parents must register children 18 years and under.

 

Last year the Oregon Legislature passed a new law requiring children seven years or younger entering public school for the first time to have their vision screened. The new law goes into effect for the 2014-15 school year, which means thousands of children throughout Oregon must have their vision screened by September.

“See to Read” is a program to provide free vision screenings to preschool children (ages 3-6) at public libraries throughout the state. The Elks Children’s Vision Clinic at OHSU’s Casey Eye Institute and the Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation will staff and conduct the screenings. They will use an electronic photo screening device that has been recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Each screening will take less than a second — the longest part of the screening will be getting the child in position to be screened!

Here are the dates for the Eugene/Springfield screenings:

Saturday, August 2
Bethel Branch Library (1990 Echo Hollow Rd.): 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (screenings in Spanish & English)
Springfield Library (225 5th St.): 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Downtown Eugene Library (100 W. 10th Ave.): 2:30-4:30 p.m.

Wednesday, August 13
Downtown Eugene Library: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Thursday, August 14
Springfield Library: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Sheldon Branch Library (1566 Coburg Rd.): 2:30-4:30 p.m.

 

Early Childhood CARES has a part time Parent Outreach Coordinator position available. The position plans, organizes and hosts parent events and trainings. The position works a flexible schedule with some evening work. For complete position announcement, qualifications and application instructions, see Administrative Program Assistant. The application deadline is Aug. 15.