5K Race Trophies by age class
April 30, 2009
2009 Race Trophy Sample:
Example of Race Trophy - Women's 40-49 Class
The Best Race Shirts in Minnesota
April 29, 2009
2011 Update:
Extremely talented local artist, Michael Birawer, has contributed the use of a beautiful custom piece for the 2011 Autism 5K. This artwork will be featured on the 2011 participation t-shirt and commemorates our first race which was held at Lake Harriet. (The 2011 race is at Lake Calhoun.)
With Mr. Birawer’s assistance, the Autism 5K will once again content for one of the best race shirts in Minnesota (and beyond)!
For more details, click here.
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Original blog post from 2009:
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The Best Race Shirts in Minnesota
- Written April 28th, 2009 by Corey Donovan
For some it’s about the course or the cause, but for a large percentage of event runners, it’s all about the shirt!
The following are the best race shirts from running events in Minnesota:
(in no particular order)
Maybe the very best race shirt offering in Minnesota. Why?
- Year over year they’ve had great artwork, whether from the third year (1984) or the most recent shirts. A great body of work!
- They don’t just offer one top notch shirt (for the marathon) but also superb artwork for the 10 mile shirt. The kid’s run shirts are great too.
- A true finisher’s shirt – there’s honor in getting and wearing it!
- Long sleeves for fall!
Am I the only one that thinks their logo kind of looks like “Where the Hell is Matt” dancing though?!
OK, they’re technically offering a finisher’s jacket, but… they’re offering a jacket!! That’s pretty impressive and nice training t-shirts can be purchased separately too.
This was year one for the Minneapolis Marathon. The great race jackets and shirts should help the cause!
Yep, that’s us (2009 Race Shirt), but we’re pretty excited about what we’ve got to offer. When we first discussed the race shirt we said, “let’s try to provide the best race shirt design ever!” and here’s why we’re close:
- Main Artwork provided by Mary GrandPre’, world famous illustrator of all seven Harry Potter novels among other terrific projects
- Graphic Design by Armato Design & Press, fabulous local letterpress shop.
- 2010 Update: The IT5K becomes the Autism 5K and features a new version of the shirt.
- 2011 Update: T-shirt design will feature artwork by the outstanding local artist, Michael Birawer. (link)
The Autism 5K will be held Saturday, May 15th 2010 at Lake Calhoun. Join us to get yours!
Their artwork is terrific and the cause is trendy too (albeit ever important)! For some the brown shirt’s favor might hinge on personal tastes, but keep in mind it’s a fully organic shirt and you have the option to take in the run with or without it! We love it!
5) Any Race with a Technical Shirt!
While cotton is fine for every day use, serious runners appreciate any race that offers technical shirts. These shirts hold up much better than cotton and typically offer moisture wicking capabilities.
I wouldn’t say it’s impossible to make a stylish technical tee, but it’s more challenging for the traditional race shirt designer. The good designs tend to be sleek and use unique lines, going well beyond offering just a cool logo. The capability to integrate art and design into technical shirts will probably only increase as the shirt technology continues to develop.
Honorable Mentions:
Grandma’s Marathon – For the achievement factor alone, yet the art is consistently great.
Stillwater Marathon – Their first year would be a nice collector.
What is your favorite race shirt?
Photos?… email info@autism5k.org
Rocio, Sean and Salvador
April 29, 2009
Rocio and Sean Bezdicek on their family’s journey (so far):
“Salvador was diagnosed with Autism at 2 1/2. He used to be very social by being a big flirt with all smiles, but one day he became catatonic in a corner; we even thought he was deaf. We were devastated as we didn’t know how we lost him.
We have since been working hard to get him back by seeking the best biomedical and behavioral treatment, trying many different things along the way. Salva is starting to come back to us as he has reconnected to the world and has been using signs to communicate.
It was a joy to hear his voice a couple years ago, and we are waiting to hear “Mama” and “Papa” again.”
What do you find that others don’t always understand about autism?
“Autism is a condition that requires your constant attention as anything can happen. It is like driving in the rain. It requires constant focus as you have to be ready for anything. There is little or no time to relax.
It is hard to see how much pain we have endured when we physically appear like any other family.”
Has TACA been a resource for you? If so, how?
“From TACA we have learned of many different services and techniques from different parents. Also, it has been a great network to learn how others are managing the condition. Plus, it is great to be around a GROUP of people who truly understand what it means to have autism touch your life.”
What’s the main reason you’re supporting the IT5K for Autism?
“It is a great way to support and help spread the word on what is going on with many kids like ours.”
Thank you so much to Sean and Rocio for sharing your personal story and your insights.
Kim, Bill and Isaac
April 29, 2009
Kim Breeden was kind enough to share her family’s story this week and answer a few of our questions.
“Isaac entered the world as a 24 week preemie and joined our family through adoption when he was 10 months old. While he was always behind developmentally, it wasn’t until he was 2 1/2 that we got the autism diagnosis. Through a great deal of one-on-one therapy, Isaac is making progress though he is still non-verbal. He is a happy and energetic boy who we believe has a lot of undiscovered potential.
What motivated you to participate in the IT5K for Autism this Saturday?
“We try not to let autism define our lives, but really it HAS defined Isaac’s. We feel that there is not enough done to find a cure for autism–which we believe exists! Money, public awareness, and support is desperately needed.”
How has TACA been beneficial to you?
“The online TACA group is a network filled with intelligent, compassionate moms, dads, and grandparents. They provide a wealth of information, particularly in the areas of diet and supplements.
Attending local TACA meetings has allowed me to learn about other resources the Twin Cities has to offer and meet parents at a variety of places in the autism journey. “
What do you feel that people need to understand about autism?
“Autism affects a child’s whole life–communication, behavior and physical well being. ”
Thanks Kim, we look forward to seeing you guys on Saturday!
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Isaac and his Dad Bill enjoying the lake!
Jennifer, David and Cade
April 23, 2009
Jennifer’s only son Cade, now 8, was a very active baby up until the age of 15 months. Cade was hitting all his developmental milestones and had a vocabulary of over 15 words including “fish”, “bowl” and “shoe”, but in October of 2001 his persona drastically changed. Cade lost all his speech and stopped looking at others including family.
Jennifer and David Larson’s mission became healing their son, but by February of 2002, their school district told them that Cade had the severest case of autism it had ever seen. It took years of behavior therapy & biomedical interventions before Cade would say “mama” again.
Jennifer started Holland Center for children with autism in 2003, in order to provide a center where she felt confident her son and other children were getting the best services available. Cade has made great strides and is a happy child with an infectious smile.
Why are you participating in the IT5K for Autism?
I’m so pleased that my direct and extended family are planning to come out for the 5K, whether they’re running, walking or just cheering. I’m actually a co-chair of the event and my IT company is a sponsor. With the growing numbers diagnosed with autism, there are far too few events to support autism causes such as TACA. This is the first year so I really hope a ton of people come out to support the event and the cause.
What are some of the reasons you support TACA?
When Cade was diagnosed, I often felt so alone in my search for information and solutions to help my son. TACA helps support families locally with immediate and real help, providing information and local resources to parents who have recently been diagnosed. The local monthly meetings are very well attended and just the ability to speak with other parents about their experiences is therapeutic.
One thing that others don’t understand about autism or those affected by it?
Society’s lack of understanding and education for disabilities where the children physically look typical, like autism, leave families frustrated and saddened. Families are often criticized, ridiculed and left to feel the only place to feel comfortable is their own home. This even more isolates children that have an already social disorder and families that are exhausted.
Autism 5K Families
April 23, 2009
We’re very thankful for the support of the families that have or are participating in the Autism 5K.
The following Minnesota families agreed to offer their stories.
Family Profiles:
(Profiles from Previous Years:)
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Thank you to all the families who have shared their story here.
If you’d also like to share your personal journey as someone affected by autism, please contact us at info@autism5k.org. Thank you.
Courtney, Mike and Charlie
April 22, 2009
Courtney & Mike Steilen will be participating in the IT5K for Autism on May 2nd and took time out to answer some questions and share their story. Their son Charlie is 3 years old.
Their story in brief:
“Charlie was diagnosed with autism at age 2 1/2. He was developing normally until around 18 months when we started noticing changes in behaviors as well as decreased speech. Once we had him diagnosed we immediately started therapy and dietary changes.
With the help of key resources, like TACA, early intervention and The Holland Center where he currently attends, we have noticed great improvements and progress daily and are firm believers that autism is treatable.”
Why you’re taking part in the IT5K?
“To raise awareness, support a great cause and to have some fun.”
Have you been involved in TACA?
“TACA has been a tremendous resource for us since we started this journey. We use the website all the time, especially for diet information and there have been great local connections for us as well.”
What’s one thing that individuals don’t realize about autism?
“We’ve come to realize that autism is treatable, that each child is different and to never give up hope.”
Purchase Posters from the Autism 5K
April 21, 2009
We have two poster print options (standard poster print and signed Giclee art prints). Both can be purchased online below via Paypal or you can order offline as follows.
Mail a check made out to “Children with Autism Deserve Education” and include a return address to:
Children with Autism Deserve Education
6031 Culligan Way
Minnetonka, MN 55345
Or Call Kirsten with your credit card info and mailing address at 952-653-2910.
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Purchase the 24″x30″ poster print of the artwork created by Mary GrandPre for the Autism5K for $20. Click the “Buy Now” button below to purchase your print via Paypal or Credit Card.
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50 limited edition signed and numbered poster prints are also available for purchase at $50 each. Click the “Buy Now” button below to purchase your print via Paypal or Credit Card.
These prints will also be available to purchase on race day at the registration pavillion.
Please note that Paypal payments will be made through Upgrade Outlet, as they’ve offered their ecommerce services to the Autism 5K at no additional charge!
Donate to TACA
April 21, 2009
(TACA was the 2009 Charity for the IT5K for Autism)
Thank you for your interest in supporting TACA and families affected by Autism.
Participants primarily support the cause by participating in the 5K (registration details here), but there is also the possibility to donate or help us raise additional funds.
Here are the primary ways to make an additional donation:
1) Make a donation directly to TACA on our event donation site.
(Choose an amount in the “Make a Contribution” box)
- Great option for those who would like to be at the event but can’t make it, yet still want to contribute.
2) Become a fundraiser and help us raise donations.
(Click the “Create a Fundraiser Page” Button)
- fundraisers who raise $100 or more will be eligible to win prizes too
3) Volunteer or Come to Cheer
If you can’t participate or contribute at this time, your presence at the event will be great for supporting the runners and walkers while helping us build awareness of autism’s reach.
4) When you register, there is an option to make an additional donation.
(REGISTRATION CLOSED)
Thank you so much!
Support Families affected by Autism (2009)
April 2, 2009
In 2009, we supported TACA, a great org which supports families affected by autism. (see 2010 charities here)
TACA (Talk About Curing Autism) provides information, resources, and support to families affected by autism, nationwide. TACA aims to speed up the cycle time from the autism diagnosis to effective treatments for families that have recently been diagnosed. TACA connects families and professionals that can help them and provides a venue for families at which they can share stories and information.
Your support of TACA makes all the difference in their ability to provide high quality programs and serve more families. 95% of all services are provided to families at absolutely no charge to them. In the event that there is a charge, scholarships are always available.
Autism Facts:
Autism is a devastating neurological and biological disorder that typically initially affects children between 18 months and five years of age.
- 1 in 150 children are diagnosed with autism
- More than 1.5 million Americans are affected
- Every 21 minutes a child is being diagnosed
- Autism receives much less funding than other diseases yet is the fastest growing disorder in our country!
Minnesota Chapter of TACA:
http://meetup.tacanow.org/minnesota/
TACA Programs:
Education and Support Meetings. TACA holds monthly meetings in 24 locations across the country. TACA’s meetings feature educational speakers on important topics and allow family members to connect with one another to stay on top of the latest information in the autism world.
Autism Journey Guide. This comprehensive guide provides families with the information they need to begin the autism journey. Guides are given away at no charge to families who have recently received the autism diagnosis.
Parent Education. TACA offers five full-day new parent orientation seminars, an annual medical seminar and a seminar aimed at educating physicians about how to care for people with autism.
Parent mentors are available to provide one-on-one support to families who have just received the autism diagnosis.
Autism Cares Partner. TACA is a partner member of Autism Cares, a consortium of leading autism organizations who have come together to provide financial support for individuals with autism and their families during natural disasters and other catastrophic life events, across the United States.
Family Scholarship Program. Scholarships are provided to help families who are pursing treatment for their children with autism, but are struggling to find the funding.
Live Chat. Sometimes families aren’t able to pick up the phone or come to a meeting to get the help they need. Through Live Chat on the TACA website, they can chat live with experienced TACA mentors to get the support they need.
Resource libraries. Each TACA location maintains a resource library of the latest autism books and tapes that can be checked out by members at no charge.
TACA’s adopt-a-family holiday program provides gifts, food and other necessities for families with autism who need help during the holiday season.
In 2009, TACA will launch three new programs through generous funding from the Pacific Life Foundation. These programs will include Spanish-language outreach in the autism community, advocacy support and independent assessment scholarships.
More information:
TACA’s accomplishments in 2008
Minnesota Meetups: http://meetup.tacanow.org/minnesota/
Visit http://www.tacanow.org
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