DSA Newsletter 10.12

Down Syndrome Association of South Texas • 2800 NW Loop 410 • San Antonio, TX 78230 • 210-349-4372

Volume 14, Issue 4

October 2012

What’s

inside...

Executive Director................1 Buddy Walk..........................2 A.C.E.....................................3 Congratulations...................3 2013 DSA Calendar..............3 Teen Club.............................4 Playgroup..............................4 Adult Matters!......................4 Kid Connection....................4 Meet Dillon..........................5 Labor of Love.......................5 Educational...........................6 Meet Your Board..................7 Outreach...............................7 Holiday Party.......................7 Support Groups...................8 Living, Learning...................9 5K Run-Walk-Roll...............9 Contributions.....................10 D.A.D.S...............................11 Who We Are.......................11 Calendar of Events.............12

www.dsastx.org

Downs Keeping Up With

Message from Terri Mauldin ...

As most of you know, the weather almost didn’t cooperate for the Buddy Walk this year; however, the skies opened up, and the rain stopped just in time for the event to kick off!

Approximately 3,000 people braved the forecast and came out to enjoy the event and help celebrate those we love with Down syndrome. As soon as the last truck was closed, the rain began to fall. That just goes to show that the event was supposed to take place, and we were not going to have to cancel! Thank you to all the volunteers, donors, families, and the DSA staff for coming out on such a rainy day to make it so successful. Please take a minute to read all about this great event within the newsletter.

Next year’s Buddy Walk will be on Saturday, September 28th, so mark your calendars!

During the next several months, we have quite a number of things going on for the Down syndrome community, as well as the DSA. Our monthly social activities continue to bring many children and adults together, along with their families. Please watch your emails and mailboxes for reminders about upcoming events and be sure to call or email the DSASTX office to RSVP for all our events. For Playgroup and Kid Connection participants, we will pay the event fees for the child with Down syndrome and their siblings (under 18 years of age). For Teen Club and Adult Matters, we will pay the event fee for the teen or adult with Down syndrome and one special needs, age appropriate guest (no siblings).

I am sad to say that Angie Cronin, the Community Outreach Coordinator, has decided to resign from the DSASTX. She will be greatly missed by not only me, but also by everyone who has called or stopped by the office.

We wish Angie the best of luck, and we hope she stays in touch!

Terri Mauldin

Please help me welcome two new additions to the DSASTX staff! Kerin Croft has joined us as the new Special Events Coordinator. Kerin brings lots of experience planning events for the DeSoto Chamber of Commerce and several hotels. Vanessa Mendoza is the new Community Outreach Coordinator. Vanessa worked as the Volunteer Coordinator at Family Service Association for several years. I hope you get to meet Kerin and Vanessa soon!

Please plan to join us on Tuesday, December 18th for the annual DSASTX Holiday Party at La Villita Assembly Hall. We will have food, drinks, music, visits with Santa, and raffle prizes. The child with Down syndrome and their immediate family (parents and siblings) are free. All extended family members and friends are $5 in advance. Be sure to check out the details in this newsletter and mark your calendar!

Keeping Up With Downs

Buddy Walk 2012 Despite the forecast for a day of heavy rain, the rain stopped just long enough for the 2012 Buddy Walk to take place! Even more amazing was the approximately 3,000 people who came out to walk! Because of you, the families and friends of children and adults with Down syndrome, we raised over $150,000 for the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas and the National Down Syndrome Society. This money will go to help support the many programs and services that are provided by the DSASTX and assist the NDSS in their research, advocacy, and education initiatives.

After the walk, the participants enjoyed a wide array of festivities. There were moon bounces, face painting, arts and crafts, basketball hoops, and of course, the train ride. The wonderful sound of great dance music was provided by DJ, Richard Hughes, from Baby Huey’s.

This event would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of the Buddy Walk committee. We also require a large number of volunteers at the walk to make it a success. So, THANK YOU, to all the committee members and volunteers.

Ageless Living Home Health, Angels of Care, Any Baby Can, A Plus Pediatric Rehab, The ARC of San Antonio, CAMP, Circle of Care, Crossroads Therapy Clinic/Talk Tools, Cute Smiles 4 Kids, Dillon's TLC, Encompass Pediatric Home Health, eTrak Corp, Eva's Heroes, Frito Lay, Herbal Life, Kinetic Kids, Lifetime Living, Inc., LLQ USA, Monarch Academy at Morgan's Wonderland, Morgan's Wonderland, New York Life Insurance Company, PCI Education, Pediatric Rehabilitation & Behavioral Services, Project Mend, R & K Specialized Homes, Inc., Reece's Rainbow, RMI Reaching Maximum Independence, Respite Care of San Antonio, San Antonio Spurs, Speech & Language Center at Stone Oak, Team Care Rehab, Texas A&M University - San Antonio, Therapy 2000, The Volunteer Services Council for SASSLC, Triple H Equitherapy, VIA Metropolitan Transit.

We would like to congratulate the participants who were the winners of some awesome prizes! Team Phillip (Phillip Montalvo), Luke’s Lucky Buddies (Luke Castellanos), and Burke’s Best Buddies (Burke Askin) were the winners of a VIP Canopy, a goody basket and a team banner for being the top team fundraisers. A drawing was held for the individual fundraisers who raised over $500. Loretta Waclawiak won a beach house stay in Port Aransas, thanks to Pete and Maria Hey; Gloria Wiley won a 2 night stay at the Westin La Cantera Resort, thanks to the Westin; Luke Castellanos won another appearance in the 2014 DSASTX calendar; and Eugenio de la Garza won the all-in-one printer, thanks to Texas Copy Office. We also had a contest for the person who raised the most money online the last week before Buddy Walk, and the winner was Omar Alba! He won four free passes to Morgan’s Wonderland!

This was our third year to be at Heroes Stadium and it was incredible. The venue was a wonderful location with its wide expanse of space. Thank you to the North East Independent School District for allowing us to use the facility. We can’t wait to be at Heroes Stadium again next year!

We were extremely honored to have RC Buford, General Manager of the Spurs, and Brent Barry, former player with the Spurs, serve as our Honorary Buddies. We would also like to thank the HEB Buddy, Frito Lay’s Chester the Cheetah and Sailor Jack, the Coyote, Funky Monkey and the Talon’s Swoop for coming to the walk and showing their support.

The Buddy Walk would not be the same without the Johnson High School JROTC Color Guard presenting the colors, including our very own Billy Cade, Jr. who held the Texas Flag during the presentation. Thank you to Rebecca Greeban for singing the National Anthem. Of course, we loved having Cat Paws and troop warm all of us up for the walk with their incredible enthusiasm and songs. After the opening ceremonies, RC, Brent, and the top teams were led by the Johnson High School JROTC on the one mile walk around Heroes Stadium.

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DSA

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the following exhibitors who displayed their services to the special needs community:

We had a record number of corporate sponsor supporters from the community this year. Thank you to all the following sponsors: Presenting Sponsor ($25,000)

HEB Tournament of Champions Great Buddy ($10,000)

Avnet Valero Big Buddy ($5,000)

Gordon Hartman Family Foundation

Royal Management

Speech and Language Center at Stone Oak Super Buddy ($2,500)

North Park Lexus

Broadway Bank

Ageless Living Home Health, LLC

San Antonio Express News

River City Community Church Special Buddy ($1,500)

Toyota Texas

AHMSA International Cool Buddy ($1,000)

Deerfield Animal Hospital

All State, Jim Boren Agency

Institute for Women's Health

Therapy 2000

McCombs Foundation

www.dsastx.org

Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union Pediatric Rehabilitation and Behavior Services Crossroads Therapy Clinic/Talk Tools Frito Lay

Buddies (Under $1,000)

CH Guenther & Sons

Penske Truck Rental

Baby Huey’s DJ & Sound System Holt-Cat

Parties, Picnics and Promotions

Simply We SideAfects

American Medical Response

The Westin La Cantera Resort

North East ISD

Custom Food Group

Balloon Productions

Century Music System

Northern Hills

Texas Copy Office

A.C.E.

2013 DSASTX Calendars available for sale!

2013 DSASTX Calendar Order Form Quantity

______

ACE Call for Adult Students and Tutors The Adult Continuing Education (ACE) program is an academic tutoring program that provides reading and math tutoring to students for 90 minutes per week. This program is specially designed for individuals with Down syndrome ages 18 and older.

Oralia Lara, the DSASTX ACE Director, will conduct an informal assessment of the client to determine his or her academic level and necessary intervention. Additionally, Oralia provides training and orientation for the tutor volunteer by preparing the tutoring lessons. All sessions are provided on a complimentary basis as part of the services of the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas.

2013 DSASTX Calendar(s) @ $10 each:

Shipping/Handling ($2 1st calendar; $1 ea. addtl.):

TOTAL

$ ______ $______

$ _______

Child with Down syndrome? _____ Yes

_____ No

If yes, name and birthdate of child with DS:

If you would like more information about the program or if you are interested in volunteering, please contact Oralia Lara, ACE Program Director, at 210-349-4372 or olara@dsastx.org.

Name:_________________________________________________

Congratulations!

Ship to:

Congratulations to Lindsey Moharam who was selected as the Down Syndrome Association’s Achiever of the Year. She was honored at the ARC of San Antonio’s 2012 Achievers of the Year Award Banquet on October 10th.

Birthdate:_______________________________________________

Name:_________________________________________________ Address:_______________________________________________ City, State, Zip:__________________________________________ Phone:_________________________________________________ E-mail:________________________________________________ Please send your check or money order along with this form to:

Down Syndrome Association of South Texas 2800 NW Loop 410, San Antonio, TX 78230 Credit card orders can be placed online in our new DSASTX Store or by phone to the DSASTX office 210-349-4372

DSA

✁

Congratulations to Steven Lopez who was named Homecoming King for Southwest High School!

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Keeping Up With Downs

Teen Club

The Teen Club is open to all teens with any disability between the ages of 13 and 17. The goal of the Teen Club is to foster friendships, stimulate socialization, and increase positive self esteem. Chaperones will be in attendance at each event. The cost of Teen Club events will be covered by the DSASTX for the teen and one special needs, age-appropriate friend. Please RSVP for each event to Kerin Croft at kcroft@dsastx.org or 210-349-4372.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9 – INCREDIBLE PIZZA Pizza party at Incredible Pizza, 11743 West Avenue, 78216.

6 - 8 p.m. RSVP by November 6.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18 – DSASTX HOLIDAY PARTY Please see page 7 for details.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 13 – THE MAIN EVENT Laster tag and video games at The Main Event.

1911 North Loop 1604 East, 78259. 1 - 3 p.m.

RSVP by January 9.

Adult Matters!

Adult Matters! is a social program specifically designed for adults with special needs ages 18 and older. The focus is on providing an environment to help them further develop their social skills, build friendships among other adults with special needs, and offer them safe and appropriate interactions within the community. In order to foster that environment, we encourage them to invite an age-appropriate peer (another adult with special needs) to participate with them. DSASTX will pay the participation fee for both of them. Please RSVP for each event to Kerin Croft at kcroft@dsastx.org or 210-349-4372.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9 – INCREDIBLE PIZZA Pizza party at Incredible Pizza, 11743 West Avenue, 78216. 6 - 8 p.m. RSVP by November 6.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18 – DSASTX HOLIDAY PARTY Please see page 7 for details.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 13 – THE MAIN EVENT Laster tag and video games at The Main Event.

1911 North Loop 1604 East, 78259. 1 - 3 p.m. RSVP by January 9.

Playgroup Playgroup is a playtime for children ages 0-3. The DSASTX will pay for entry fees to these activities (if applicable) for the child with Down syndrome and their siblings. Please RSVP for each event to Kerin Croft at kcroft@dsastx.org or 210-349-4372.

WEDNESDAYS, NOVEMBER 7, 14 & 28 - KINDERMUSIK Music Arts Center Northwest (IH 10 & De Zavala), 12732 Cimarron Path, Ste. 100, 78249. 10 - 11 a.m.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 8 – INCREDIBLE PIZZA Pizza party at Incredible Pizza, 11743 West Avenue, 78216.

6 - 8 p.m. RSVP by November 5.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18 – DSASTX HOLIDAY PARTY Please see page 7 for details.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 12 – SAN ANTONIO CHILDREN'S MUSEUM 305 E. Houston Street, 78205. 10:30 a.m. RSVP by January 8.

WEDNESDAYS, FEBRUARY 6, 13, 20 & 27 - KINDERMUSIK Music Arts Center Northwest (IH 10 & De Zavala), 12732 Cimarron Path, Ste. 100, 78249. 10 - 11 a.m.

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Kid Connection

Kid Connection is our gathering designed for family social activities. We welcome all children with special needs and their families! Our events are specifically designed for ages 4 - 12. The DSASTX will pay the admission for the individual with Down syndrome and their siblings. Parents are responsible for their own admission. A discounted rate will be offered when possible. Please RSVP for each event to Kerin Croft at kcroft@dsastx.org or 210-349-4372.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 8 – INCREDIBLE PIZZA Pizza party at Incredible Pizza, 11743 West Avenue, 78216.

6 - 8 p.m. RSVP by November 5.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18 – DSASTX HOLIDAY PARTY Please see page 7 for details.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 12 – INFLATABLE WONDERLAND Rolling Oaks Mall, 6909 N. Loop 1604 E. #2063, 78247. 10 a.m. - 12 Noon. RSVP by January 8.

www.dsastx.org

Meet Dillon

We are so honored and proud to introduce our son Dillon to you! Dillon is a very typical 12-year-old boy who enjoys living life to the fullest. He loves his family more than anything and always wants to have fun doing something together. He is the youngest Dillon (center), Derek & Mercedes of three children born to Frank and Jackie Valadez; he has two siblings, brother Derek and sister Mercedes. His favorite activity is going to the Spurs games; he loves the action, food, loud music and the Coyote! Dillon is very energetic and can often be found dancing in his seat and high-fiving those around him when the Spurs score. In addition to the Spurs games, he enjoys going to football games, visiting his grandparents, being with friends, going to parties, traveling, and being outdoors. He especially loves the beach, resorts in Mexico, and swimming.

Dillon just celebrated his 12th birthday on October 2nd and is a 5th grader in Boerne Independent School District. He is a true blessing to our family and has brought us so much joy, laughter, and love. When Dillon was born, we had no idea we would welcome a child with Down syndrome into our lives. It wasn’t until Dillon was several months old that his doctor suggested we do a chromosome test on him. While the outcome of the test was difficult to accept at first, we knew God sent Dillon to us for a reason. Today he is healthy, active, and loves school. He practices yoga regularly and participates in Special Olympics in Boerne. He enjoys reading, computers, the iPad, video games, and movies.

With our faith and hope to help other children reach their full potential, we decided to open up a comprehensive therapy and learning center in Boerne for other children like Dillon which we have named after him, Dillon’s TLC (Therapy & Learning Center).

What has been most amazing is that our children see one another for who they are, not for the challenges they are faced with. This is a wonderful gift we have been given – to truly see others for who they are. We are blessed by all of the families and friends who have touched our lives because of Dillon. It has truly been a journey we could have never even dreamt for ourselves and for that we are very grateful.

Labor of Love

Spiritual Treasures of Downtown San Antonio is a labor of love that came about when the author, Mary Jane Hardy, took her children to St. Mary’s Catholic Church in downtown San Antonio to pray for husband Ken Hardy who was hospitalized. While they were there, she realized that her children had never seen and enjoyed the beautiful churches San Antonio has to offer.

When Ken recovered from his illness, they began to work on Spiritual Treasures. Over many years, Mary Jane and her husband visited the churches and gathered information.

Unfortunately, as it usually does, life happened and the project was set aside. Years later, following Ken’s death, Mary Jane came across the research they had started together and decided to complete the book in his honor.

After more years of research, the book was finally complete. A friend of Mary Jane’s donated the book’s publication with one stipulation. The donor, who wishes to remain anonymous, requested that a portion of the proceeds be donated to the donor’s charity of choice. However, since the book was meant solely to honor the memory of Ken Hardy, Mary Jane agreed to donate all of the proceeds to the charity. As parents of a child with Down syndrome, the donor selected the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas as the charity to receive all of the proceeds generated from this wonderful book.

If you would like to order the book, please email Mary Jane directly at hardykenjane@sbcglobal.net. The book sells retail in bookstores for $19.95; however, direct sales from Mary Jane are only $10.00 each.

http://www.nnovativemarketing.com/DOWNSYNDROME/

The 2013 Book of Free gift certificate book is available now!

Follow the link above to purchase your copy and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the DSASTX.

DSA

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Keeping Up With Downs

Educational Opportunities ARC of San Antonio – Education Seminars Celebrate with hundreds of partner organizations and businesses for AccessAbility Fest to bring resources and recreation to people with disabilities and their families.

Sunday, October 28th • 12 noon - 5 p.m.

HemisFair Park, Downtown San Antonio, 600 HemisFair Plaza Way, 78205 Parking is available at the Alamodome. Continuous shuttle service between the Alamodome and the park will be available between 11:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. AccessAbility Fest is free and open to the public.

Meet the Legislators! Join us at 12 noon for opening ceremonies, remarks from these candidates and your chance for a face-to-face visit with policymakers.

Features: • Bring the family out for a day of fun! Wear your Halloween costumes & enjoy family friendly trick-or-treating • Appearances by local Legislature and Candidates • Experts for one-on-one consultation • Live Entertainment - Games - Activities - Train Rides - Face Painting - Mascots - Health Screenings - Costume Contest for Attendees • Information and Resource booths - AccessAbility in Action Award Presentation Visit http://www.accessabilityfest.com/ for more details and to register for Ask The Expert slots.

Celebrating Caregivers Presented by: Bexar County Family Caregiver Support Coalition Saturday, November 3rd • 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.

TriPoint Grantham Center, 3233 N. St. Mary’s, 78212 RSVP: 210-493-2332 or email bexarfamilycaregivercoalition@satx.rr.com Special Education Law/504 Presented by: Brighton, The Center for Communities No Child Left Behind (4 Principals) Learning about the laws, IDEA and 504s. What makes them different? No child care option is available.

Tuesday, November 13th • 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.

The Arc of San Antonio, West Avenue location, 13430 West Avenue, 78216 RSVP: Dot O’Donnell, 210-826-4492 ext.5405 ARD Process Presented by: Brighton, The Center for Communities How to process the ARD Agenda and how a smart ARD should go from beginning to end. What are your options if things go wrong?

No child care option is available.

Tuesday, December 11th • 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.

The Arc of San Antonio, West Avenue location, 13430 West Avenue, 78216 RSVP: Dot O’Donnell, 210-826-4492 ext.5405 20th Anniversary Inclusion Works! Conference

TAPPestry Conference 2013 February 23, 2013 • 8 a.m. - 4:15 p.m.

ESC-20, 1314 Hines Ave., San Antonio, TX 78208 TAPPestry is an annual conference hosted in conjunction with several area school districts and parent organizations. TAPPestry is comprised of Parents, Teachers, Administrators, and other Professionals working with children with special needs.

This year’s keynote speaker will be Kathy Morris. http://www.igivuwings.com/index.html For more information and registration, visit the ESC-20 website @ http://portal.esc20.net/portal/page/portal/esc20public/ SpecialEducation/ParentCoordination?_pir ef130_637132_130_637129_637129.tabstring=tappestry&_pir ef130_3425198_130_637129_637129.tabstring=TAPPestry

The Renaissance Hotel, 9721 Arboretum Blvd., Austin, Texas February 7-9, 2013 The Arc of Texas’ Inclusion Works! Conference is the premiere conference on inclusive education for students with disabilities.

Online Registration at www.tharcoftexas.org

A huge “THANK YOU” to the following organizations and foundations for their contributions to the DSASTX: Cowden Foundation grant for $10,000 The Gordon Hartman Family Foundation for $10,000 grant HEB Tournament of Champions for $10,000 grant Valero Texas Open Children’s Charities for $25,000

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www.dsastx.org

Meet Your Board Outreach Eric Swellander Continuing our tradition of military brat appointees, we are most fortunate to have Eric Swellander, a Financial Analyst with CH Guenther & Son, Inc., as a member of the board. CH Guenther is famous in San Antonio for many reasons, including owning and operating the iconic Pioneer Flour Mill in Southtown.

Eric grew up in San Antonio after the Air Force transferred his father here when Eric was 3 years old – so he is undoubtedly a Spurs fan. Eric’s father had a love for classical music and Eric fondly recalls that he and his siblings would regularly be lulled to sleep by the sound of great classical music. Eric is married to Michele, his high school sweetheart from Roosevelt. Michele is a special education elementary school teacher in the Comal ISD. Eric and Michele are the proud parents of Joshua, a 16-year-old high school sophomore who plays center on his school’s basketball team. In addition to his athletic prowess, Joshua is working to complete his Eagle Scout requirements for the Boy Scouts. The family is close knit and enjoys spending time together. Among their many activities, they enjoy BIG weekend breakfasts together, long hikes at local parks, camping and kayaking.

Eric’s introduction to the Down syndrome community is multifaceted. His wife has the pleasure of educating many children with Down syndrome, and the couple has had close acquaintances with a number of couples over the years who have nurtured Down syndrome children into loving and talented adults.

Eric is a news junky and makes use of a wide variety of news sources, from Fox News to the Daily Show with Jon Stuart. Eric does not hesitate when asked to pick a favorite from one of the following categories: Restaurant, Movie, Car, Sport, Game, TV Show. After years of yearning, Eric is now the proud owner of a bright red Mustang GT – he’ll be more than willing to tell you about it next time you see him. But if you pull up beside Eric, don’t expect to hear his father’s classical music wafting through the air. Eric says it just wouldn’t be proper to drive a Mustang without cranking out some good ol’ rock n roll!

We would like to welcome our newest families to the Down Syndrome Association family!

If you know someone who has a child or family member with Down syndrome, please let them know about the DSASTX and the services we provide. We’d be happy to reach out to help in any way possible!

Ben Lewis and Ernestina Perez, grandparents of Adrianna King Elizabeth Frazier, sibling of Annette Jackson Sylvia Garza, sibling of Olga Garza Alfonso Morales and Dantihza Aravjo, parents of Yamileth Morales Alma Longoria, parent of Genaro Burciaga Angela Elseth, parent of Luke Elseth Anthony Buentello and Rebecca Cardenas, parents of Arianna Buentello John and Becky Perez, parents of Juaquin Perez David and Cathy Beaver, parents of Lea Beaver Daniel Dickson and Leticia Perez, parents of Gael Dickson Edward Broich and Vanessa Hernandez, parents of Evelyn Massey Joseph and Elicia Conroy, parents of Daniel Conroy Eugene and Maurice Hinson, parents of Kheeda Hinson Irma Ortega, expectant parent Oscar and Rose Ybarra, parents of Matthew Ybarra Rosalinda Alvarado, parent of Guadalupe Alvarado Ruben and Mary Solano, parents of Ruben Solano III John and Ruby Marin, parents of Julian Marin Samantha Salinas, parent of Jazmine Salinas Damian and Shelly Abbott, parents of Damian Abbott II Steve and Lori Ann Alvarado, parents of Adrienne Alvarado Tom and Kandi Tucker, expectant parents Yolanda Hermosillo, parent of Jonathan Sanchez

Annual Holiday Party Please join us for the Annual DSASTX Holiday Party!

Tuesday, December 18 • 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

La Villita Assembly Building (main floor) 401 Villita, San Antonio, TX 78205 Come for a fun evening with Santa and your DSASTX friends.

Don't forget your dancing shoes! A BBQ meal will be provided.

The event is FREE for people with Down syndrome and immediate family members (parents and siblings only). All extended family members and friends are welcome for $5 per person. FREE parking will be provided with a parking ticket available at the DSASTX office. Please RSVP on or before December 7th with the number of adults and children that will be attending to the DSASTX office at 210-349-4372 or info@dsastx.org.

La Villita Assembly Building

Space is limited so RSVP early!!

DSA

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Keeping Up With Downs SAN ANTONIO – NORTHSIDE PARENT SUPPORT GROUP Coker United Methodist Church 231 E. North Loop Rd. Gibbs Room 1108 San Antonio, TX 78216 Our Northside Parent Support Group meets the 1st Tuesday of each month from 6:00 p.m – 8:00 p.m. A light dinner is served.

Childcare is available with a required RSVP to Coker UMC at 210-494-3455 x 245 at least 48 hours in advance. Please leave a detailed message when making a reservation.

NEW BRAUNFELS PARENT SUPPORT GROUP Gruene United Methodist Church 2629 East Common Street, New Braunfels, Texas 78130 Our New Braunfels Parent Support Group (serving Comal and Guadalupe counties) meets on the 3rd Thursday of each month from 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. A light dinner is served. Childcare is available with a required RSVP to the DSASTX office at 210-349-4372. We look forward to seeing you there!

Tuesday, november 6 Topic: Potty Training Speaker: Anissa Moore, The Arc of San Antonio

Thursday, NOVEMBER 15 Topic: HCS and ICF Residential Services for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities Speaker: Wynne Fowler, Program Director Progressive Life and Enhanced Living Center

Tuesday, december 4 Topic: Open Forum Discussion

Thursday, DECEMBER 20 Topic: Open Forum Discussion

Tuesday, january 8 (Due to New Year's Holiday) Topic: ARD Clinic - Inclusion Speaker: Dot O'Donnell, Advocacy Education Specialist, PALS - Brighton Center

Thursday, JANUARY 17 Topic: ARD Clinic - Inclusion Speaker: Dot O'Donnell, Advocacy Education Specialist, PALS - Brighton Center

Tuesday, february 5 Topic: HCS and ICF Residential Services for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities Speaker: Wynne Fowler, Program Director Progressive Life and Enhanced Living Center

Thursday, february 21 Topic: Obstructive Sleep Apnea • Speaker: Dr. Kelly Smith

SAN ANTONIO – SOUTHSIDE PARENT SUPPORT GROUP De Paul Family Center 7607 Somerset Road San Antonio, TX 78211

Our Boerne Parent Support Group meets on the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. A light dinner is served.

Childcare is available with a required RSVP to the DSASTX office at 210-349-4372. We look forward to seeing you there!

Our Southside Parent Support Group meets the 3rd Tuesday of each month from 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. A light dinner is served.

Childcare is available with a required RSVP to the DSASTX office at 210-349-4372. We look forward to seeing you there!

Tuesday, november 20 Topic: Behavior Strategies Speaker: Lupe Castaneda, MS, MCBA Tuesday, december 18 **DSA Holiday Party at Villita Assembly Hall Tuesday, january 15 Topic: ARD Clinic – Inclusion Speaker: Dot O'Donnell, Advocacy Education Specialist, PALS - Brighton Center Tuesday, february 19 Topic: HCS and ICF Residential Services for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities Speaker: Wynne Fowler, Program Director Progressive Life and Enhanced Living Center

BOERNE PARENT SUPPORT GROUP St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, Room 148 FLC 202 W. Kronkosky Street, Boerne, Texas 78006

Tuesday, november 13 Topic: Behavior Strategies • Speaker: Lupe Castaneda, MS MCBA Tuesday, december 11 Topic: HCS Medicaid Waiver / Waiting List Speaker: Carmen Martinez Tuesday, january 8 Topic: Open Forum Discussion Tuesday, february 12 Topic: Obstructive Sleep Apnea • Speaker: Dr. Kelly Smith

SPANISH PARENT SUPPORT GROUP Down Syndrome Association of South Texas Offices 2800 NW Loop 410, San Antonio, TX 78230 Our Spanish Parent Support Group meets every other month from 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. A light dinner is served. Childcare is not provided at this time. We look forward to seeing you there!

Thursday, december 13 Topic: HCS and CLASS Medicaid Waiver Programs Speaker: Yolanda Fuentes

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www.dsastx.org

Living, Learning, eQuipping Children with Down Syndrome to Live Full Inclusive Lives Together we can make literacy a reality for children with Down syndrome

The 2012 Fall Race and Roll for Kids 5K Run-Walk-Roll

LLQ USA is a 501(c) 3, under San Antonio Area Foundation, which was formed solely for improving the lives of children with Down syndrome. Our name, LLQ USA, is an acronym for Living, Learning, eQuipping Children with Down syndrome for full inclusive lives.

Saturday, October 27 • 9 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

The 5K begins at Valero Energy Corporation One Valero Way, San Antonio, Texas 78249

Our mission is to make literacy a reality by bringing a reading and language teaching intervention (RLI) to the United States education system which was recently developed and evaluated in a large randomized controlled trial (RCT) in the United Kingdom by researchers at Down Syndrome Education (DSE) and the University of York. This was a landmark study, and the research findings from the UK have recently been published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry. The results of the study can be summarized as follows: • After only 20 weeks, children with Down syndrome taught using the program had made substantially more progress than those receiving typical classroom literacy instruction (which included 1:1 support) • On average, the children using the program gained 4.5 words on a standardized reading measure in 20 weeks – more than twice as many as those not using the program (this measure is equal to a typically developing child’s progress) • Although only 60% of children with Down syndrome were able to score on a standardized reading test at start of the study, 90% could score after receiving the intervention – 50% more children

The course is on the Leon Creek Greenway. The paved trails are completely accessible. Kids and adults using wheelchairs or other mobility devices are encouraged to participate.

Today in the United States unprecedented numbers of children are being identified as having special medical and developmental needs. Project MEND (Medical Equipment for those with Disabilities) and TEAMability (Multiple Solutions for Multiple Disabilities) strive to support kids with disabilities and their families by providing access to specialized learning environments and resources to obtain medical equipment and assistive technology needed to improve a child’s quality of life. Project MEND and TEAMability are hosting the 2012 Fall Race and Roll for Kids – a 5K run-walk-roll to raise awareness of the needs of children with disabilities.

ABOUT THE RACE: • Chip timing for the avid runner • Race management by: www.iaapweb.com • 1-mile “Fun Run” • “Virtual” runner for those that are not able to attend • Awards for the top 3 Male and Female runners

• By the end of the study, 1 in 5 children with Down syndrome had achieved word reading skills as good as typically developing children

• Awards for the top 3 Male and Female rollers

This study demonstrates that the literacy skills of children with Down syndrome can be dramatically improved in a short period of time with more effective teaching techniques. Imagine if they could be taught this way from the start of their academic education.

• $10 - 17 and under

Our pilot study is the first step to convert the work done in the UK to the USA education system and is currently being conducted in San Antonio, Texas. This is a landmark in the United States, as there is no known evidence based intervention in US education system that is geared specifically towards children with Down syndrome. The program is theoretically-motivated and based on principles of best practice adapted for the learning profile of children with Down syndrome.

• $20 - virtual runner: get t-shirt if signed-up before 10/12/2012

With financial support this study will lead to a larger RCT in the United States which will be needed to continue to pursue change.

For further details and information on how your financial support can make literacy a reality for children with Down syndrome, please contact LLQ USA at www.llqusa.com.

REGISTRATION FEES:

• $25 - early bird before 10/12/2012 • $45 - family deal - up to 4 family members

• Pre-Race Packet Pick-Up: Soler’s Sports, 18720 Stone Oak Parkway #150, 78258. 4 - 6 p.m. on Friday, October 26.

REGISTER ON-LINE: www.teamability.org OR www.projectmend.org QUESTIONS: Lisa Ballesteros 210-701-2024 lballesteros@teamability.org

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Keeping Up With Downs

Contributions

We sincerely appreciate the following people who have so generously donated to the Down Syndrome Association. Your contributions help us offer a variety of programs for the members of our organization.

Ageless Living Home Health Ahmsa International, Inc. Alex Rios Alexandria Witherspoon Alfred Montalvo in honor of Phillip but in memory of Adolph Hanslik Alisia Aguilera American Legion Post #242 in memory of Peyton Guelker Amy Petrzelka in memory of Peyton Guelker Angela Hodde in memory of Peyton Guelker Ann Knittel in memory of Peyton Guelker Any Baby Can AT&T United Way Employee Giving Campaign B.J. Bosse in memory of Peyton Guelker Baptist Health Foundation of San Antonio - Resource Guides Barbara Spinner Ben Allen Poncik in memory of Peyton Guelker Ben Lewis in honor of Beckett Lewis Betty Chenault in memory of Peyton Guelker Betty Chenault in memory of Peyton Guelker Bill Cade Broadway National Bank Carlton Burleson Carmen Dreumont R&K Specialized Homes Carol Schmidt in memory of Peyton Guelker Casey Bond Center for Maternal-Fetal Care CH Guenther & Sons, Inc. Chad Wiley Children's Association for Maximum Potential (CAMP) Children's Dental Ark Chloe Walker in memory of Peyton Guelker Christopher Harmel in memory of Peyton Guelker Citigroup (via Trust) Clarice Lampe in memory of Peyton Guelker Claudia Alba Conrad Housler Cowden Charitable Foundation Trust Dana Bruner in honor of Wes Albright David H. Kruse in memory of Peyton Guelker David Staples in honor of Colin Stanush Debbie Albright Dina Coover Donald Hohne in honor of Logan Klearner Doris Seilheimer in memory of Peyton Guelker Dorothy Wellman in memory of Peyton Guelker Edyth Keller in honor of Patricia Keller Elna Jeanes in honor of Collin Stanush Eva's Heroes Fernandez Honda in honor of Jason Garcia

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DSA

First Commercial Bank Frank Przyborowski Fred Richards in honor of Michael Richards Gene Meyer in memory of Peyton Guelker Gene Vasquez - Cinco's Buddies - Selina Carbonell Gerald Weigelt in memory of Peyton Guelker Geraldine Kinser in memory of Peyton Guelker Greg Langas Gregg Greebon Hannah Villarreal Jorge Herrera Henry Bussey in honor of Noah Warrczak James and Virginia McCune in memory of Peyton Guelker James Gasper in honor of Maddie Neff Janice Troy Jeanette Knaupp Jessica Berish - Accenture Bake Sale Jodie Tucker Schorsch, Claire Johnson High School National Honor Society Joshua Guelker in memory of Peyton Guelker Kacey Weiss in memory of Peyton Guelker Kathryn Balmos Table Kathy Carrizales Ken Weidenfeller Kim Kinnison in honor of Colton Kinnison Kinetic Kids Lark Lee Laura Gruner Laurel Smith in memory of Peyton Guelker Lifetime Living Inc. Linda Brennan in memory of Peyton Guelker Linda Conley in memory of Peyton Guelker Lisa Drozdick Lisa Hays in memory of Peyton Guelker Loretta Moss Manuel Reyes-Campos Maria Hey Maria Weaver Marie Cassidy in honor of Stephanie Crane Marjorie Rosenbaum in memory of Peyton Guelker McKenna Legacy Foundation Melissa Bilski in memory of Peyton Guelker Merridee Chaloupka in honor of Heather Wiley Meyghan Godinez in honor of Jessaca Bond Michelle Pettit Midway Importing, Inc. - Eugenio de la Garza Mike Agee in honor of Hawkeye Walcgynski Neal Matthews New Braunfels Pediatric Associates, PA Nora Lee Goldberg in memory of Peyton Guelker Paracutin Civiv and Educational Foundation, Inc. Patrice Sorrells in memory of Peyton Guelker Pearce Trust Pediatric Rehabilitation and Behavioral Services Penny Kelm in memory of Peyton Guelker Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union Ray Meyer in memory of Peyton Guelker Ray W. Felder in memory of Peyton Guelker Reaching Maximum Independence

www.dsastx.org Rene Pastrano in honor of Persayus Witherspoon Rene Ranger in memory of Peyton Guelker Respite Care of San Antonio, Inc. Richard Glancey Richard Wyckoff Rick Villarreal Robin Wellman in memory of Peyton Guelker Rudy A. Frahm in honor of Richard Murphy San Antonio Children's Foundation San Antonio State Supported Living Center Shannon Jeanes-Stanush in honor of Collin Stanush Shaun Kennedy Speech and Language Center at Stone Oak Spencer Hammons Nana and Pop Maartin Stephen Ramseur in honor of Riley Ramseur Steve Sawyer Burke Askin Steven and Stacy Schaper in memory of Peyton Guelker Tammy Goldberg in memory of Peyton Guelker TeamCare Rehabilitation Terri Mauldin The ARC of San Antonio Tim McIntosh Todd Felder in memory of Peyton Guelker Triple H Equitherapy United Health Group - Employee Giving Campaign United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County - 2012 UW Volunteer Program of the Year Valero Energy Foundation Veronica de los Santos Virginia Criel in honor of April Criel Wade Montgomery Yvonne Perez

D.A.D.S.

Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome, or D.A.D.S., is a committee or community group (within a local Down syndrome support organization) of fathers of children who happen to have Down syndrome.We hesitate to call ourself a “support group”, even though we do, in many ways, support each other.

We invite expert speakers to discuss medical, educational, financial, social, and any other issues that affect our children’s lives. And of course, we share stories and experiences that are unique to fathers of children with Down syndrome.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 5 – THE TILTED KILT Monday Night Football at The Tilted Kilt. 2070 N. Loop 1604, 78232.

7:00 p.m. This is instead of the previously scheduled meeting on Thursday, November 1.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10 – D.A.D.S. GOLF TOURNAMENT COMMITTEE MEETING 6:30 p.m., DSASTX Offices, 2nd Floor WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16 – SIDELINERS GRILL Spurs vs. Grizzlies at Sideliners Grill. 15630 Henderson Pass, 78232.

7 p.m.

Who We Are

mission statement The DSASTX's mission is to provide support and services to children and adults with Down syndrome and their families.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Terri Mauldin 210-349-4375 • tmauldin@dsastx.org

community outreach coordinator Vanessa Mendoza 210-349-4372 • vmendoza@dsastx.org

Special Events Coordinator Kerin Croft 210-349-4372 • kcroft@dsastx.org

DSA Bookkeeper Vicky Akers 210-349-4372 • vakers@dsastx.org

adult continuing education director Oralia Lara 210-349-4372 • olara@dsastx.org

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chairperson – Christy Anderson Vice Chairperson – Edward Leos Secretary – Lisa Drozdick Treasurer/Finance – Eric Swellander Member at Large – Debbie Albright Member at Large – Jessaca Bond Member at Large – Barbara Samfield Member at Large – Tim McIntosh Member at Large – Michelle Pettit Member at Large – Noe de la Garza Member at Large – Lamont Jefferson

The DSA is on Facebook!

Become our Friend at http://www.facebook.com/pages/ Down-Syndrome-Association-of-SouthTexas/145682488784297

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Calendar of Events NovEMBER 7,14,28 – Playgroup Kindermusik: Music Arts Center Northwest,

12732 Cimarron Path Ste. 100, 10 - 11 a.m.

5 D.A.D.S.: Monday Night Football at The Tilted Kilt,

2070 N. Loop 1604, 7 p.m.

6 San Antonio Northside PSG: Potty Training, Coker UMC,

231 E. North Loop Rd. Gibbs 1108, 6 - 8 p.m.

8 Playgroup & Kid Connection: Incredible Pizza, 11743 West Ave.,

6 - 8 p.m.

9 Teen Club & Adult Matters: Incredible Pizza, 11743 West Ave.,

6 - 8 p.m.

13 Boerne PSG: Behavior Strategies, St. Peter the Apostle Catholic

Church, 202 W. Kronkosky St., Boerne, Room #148 FLC, 6 - 8 p.m.

15 New Braunfels PSG: HCS and Residential Services for Individuals

with Developmental Disabilities, Gruene UMC, 2629 E. Common St.,

6 - 7:30 p.m.

20 San Antonio Southside PSG: Behavior Strategies, De Paul Family

Center, 7607 Somerset Road, 6 - 7:30 p.m.

DECEMBER 4 San Antonio Northside PSG: Open Forum, Coker UMC,

231 E. North Loop Rd., Gibbs 1108, 6 - 8 p.m.

10 D.A.D.S. Golf Tournament Committee Meeting:

6:30 p.m., DSASTX Offices, 2nd Floor, 2800 NW Loop 410 11 Boerne PSG: HCS Medicaid Waiver/Waiting List - Carmen Martinez,

St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, 202 W. Kronkosky St., Boerne,

Room #148 FLC, 6 - 8 p.m.

13 Spanish PSG: HCS and CLASS Medicaid Waiver Programs,

DSASTX Offices, 2800 NW Loop 410, 6 - 7:30 p.m.

18 Annual Holiday Party: La Villita Assembly Building, 301 Villita,

5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

20 New Braunfels PSG: Open Forum, Gruene UMC,

2629 E. Common St., 6 - 7:30 p.m.

january 8 San Antonio Northside PSG: ARD Clinic on Inclusion, Coker UMC,

231 E. North Loop Rd., Gibbs 1108, 6 - 8 p.m.

8 Boerne PSG: Open Forum Discussion, St. Peter the Apostle Catholic

Church, 202 W. Kronkosky St., Boerne, Room #148 FLC, 6 - 8 p.m.

12 Playgroup: San Antonio Children’s Museum, 305 E. Houston, 10:30 a.m.

12 Kid Connection: Inflatable Wonderland, Rolling Oaks Mall,

6909 N. Loop 1604 E. #2063, 10 a.m. - 12 noon.

13 Teen Club & Adult Matters: The Main Event,

1911 North Loop 1604 East, 1 - 3 p.m.

15 San Antonio Southside PSG: ARD Clinic on Inclusion,

De Paul Family Center, 7607 Somerset Road, 6 - 7:30 p.m.

16 D.A.D.S.: Spurs vs. Grizzlies at Sideliners Grill, 15630 Henderson Pass,

7 p.m.

17 New Braunfels PSG: ARD Clinic on Inclusion, Gruene UMC,

2629 E. Common St., 6 - 7:30 p.m.

FEBRUARY 6,13,20,27 – Playgroup Kindermusik: Music Arts Center Northwest,

12732 Cimarron Path Ste. 100, 10 - 11 a.m.

5 San Antonio Northside PSG: HCS and Residential Services for Individuals

with Developmental Disabilities, Coker UMC, 231 E. North Loop Rd.,

Gibbs 1108, 6 - 8 p.m.

12 Boerne PSG: Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Dr. Kelly Smith, St. Peter the

Apostle Catholic Church, 202 W. Kronkosky St., Boerne, Room #148 FLC,

6 - 8 p.m.

19 San Antonio Southside PSG: HCS and Residential Services for Individuals

with Developmental Disabilities, De Paul Family Center,

7607 Somerset Road, 6 - 7:30 p.m.

21 New Braunfels PSG: Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Dr. Kelly Smith,

Gruene UMC, 2629 E. Common St., 6 - 7:30 p.m.

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED Down Syndrome Association of South Texas 2800 NW Loop 410 San Antonio, TX 78230 Nonprofit Org U.S. Postage paid San Antonio, TX Permit No 1126