Down Syndrome Association of San Antonio • 2800 NW Loop 410 • San Antonio, TX 78230 • 210-349-4372
Volume 14, Issue 5
JANUARY 2012
What’s
inside...
Executive Director................1 HUGS...................................1 New Website.........................1 Support Groups...................2 Fun Run Rally......................3 DSA Calendar.......................3 Treasurer's Report................4 D.A.D.S.................................4 Special Events.......................5 Birdies for Charity...............5 Educational...........................6 Kid Connection....................7 News & Notes.......................7
www.dsasa.org
Downs Keeping Up With
Message from Terri Mauldin ... Welcome to 2012! I am really looking forward to all the wonderful things the Down Syndrome Association of San Antonio has in store for the next year! As we close 2011, I’d like to reflect on what a great year it was for not only the DSASA, but for the Down syndrome community, as well. The DSASA added so many new families, and we are now serving over 850 families with almost 5,000 contacts in our database. More and more people in our community are finding out about the DSASA, and we love that we can let everyone know the great things we can do and how wonderful our kids are! We have added two new support group meetings around San Antonio and outlying areas. The Southside support group began in July 2011 and the Boerne Support Group will begin in January 2012. All the events we held in 2011, from the monthly social activities to the Buddy Walk to the Holiday Party, were so well-attended that we know we are making an impact. The Buddy Walk had over 4,500 people in attendance, and we raised over $130,000! The Holiday Party had over 850 people in
attendance – it was a terrific evening! I would like to take this opportunity to thank some people for their hard work at the Holiday Party: • Richard Hughes for providing all the Terri Mauldin wonderful dancing music • Chris Reilly Photography for taking such awesome photos • Henry Garcia for being a wonderful Santa Claus • All the volunteers that helped set up, manage registration, provide kitchen duty, and clean up. I also want to thank the members of the Board of Directors for their dedication this past year and all their hard work in helping the DSASA become an awesome organization. I look forward to enjoying 2012 with each and every one of you!
Teen Club.............................7 Meet Your Representative....8 Adult Matters!......................8
Help Us Give Support
Playgroup..............................9 Board Highlight...................9 Contributions.....................10 Meet Jada............................10 Inspirational.......................11 Who We Are.......................11 Calendar of Events.............12
The DSASA’s HUGS program is an easy way to donate through automatic monthly installments via all major credit cards or checking accounts. The minimum amount can be as low as $5 per month ($60/year). Every donation helps support all of the DSASA programs. Visit the DSASA website and click on the HUGS link to start your monthly giving today!
New Website! Be sure to check out our beautiful new and improved website at www.dsasa.org! Thank you to Jeff Gonzales at Benson Design Associates for the terrific work!
Keeping Up With Downs
Support Groups Our monthly meetings of the Parent Support Groups are designed for parents, grandparents, siblings, and friends of children with Down syndrome. NEW!!! BOERNE PARENT SUPPORT GROUP St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church 202 W. Kronkosky St., Room #148 FLC Boerne, Texas 78006 We are launching a new Parent Support Group that will meet on the 2nd Tuesday of each month! The first few meetings will be an open forum where we get to know each other and determine what speakers are needed and wanted from the group. Childcare will be available with a required RSVP to the DSASA office at 210-3494372. We look forward to seeing you there! TUESDAY, JANUARY 10 Topic: Meet and Greet TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14 Topic: Open Forum TUESDAY, MARCH 13 Topic: Open Forum TUESDAY, APRIL 10 Topic: TBA TUESDAY, MAY 8 Topic: TBA SAN ANTONIO SOUTHSIDE PARENT SUPPORT GROUP De Paul Family Center 7607 Somerset Road, San Antonio, TX 78211 Third Tuesday of each month from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Childcare is available with a required RSVP to the DSASA office at 210-349-4372 or downsynassc@dsasa.org. We look forward to seeing you there! TUESDAY, JANUARY 17 Topic: Dreams Fulfilled through Music Speaker: Mary Kathryn Archuleta Parent Alliance for Learning and Support (PALS) Training is coming to the Southside Group! PALS is a program from Brighton Center that is dedicated to empowering parents and professionals with knowledge of special education law. Through the DSASA, you will attend 3 PALS sessions where each participant learns how to communicate effectively, understands the state and federal laws governing special education, and learns to navigate the most appropriate education for your child. You will also be able to attend 2 ARD clinics which offer information to parents in a group setting. Learning about one specific topic, this will assist
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parents with any questions regarding a specific diagnosis or disability. After attending all 5 sessions you will receive 1 and a half years of free ARD support from Brighton. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21 Topic: P.A.L.S. training #1 Speaker: Brighton Center TUESDAY, MARCH 20 Topic: P.A.L.S. training #2 Speaker: Brighton Center TUESDAY, APRIL 17 Topic: P.A.L.S. training #3 Speaker: Brighton Center TUESDAY, MAY 15 Topic: PALS Training – ARD Clinic #1 Speaker: Brighton Center SAN ANTONIO NORTHSIDE PARENT SUPPORT GROUP Coker United Methodist Church 231 E. North Loop Rd., Gibbs Room 1108, San Antonio, TX 78216 First Tuesday of each month from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Parents are encouraged to attend and PLEASE use the childcare for this event by calling 210-494-3455 x245 at least 48 hours in advance. Please leave a detailed message when making a reservation. Out of respect to our speakers, we ask that all children over the age of two be left in childcare. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7 Topic: What Happens After High School? Speaker: The Arc of San Antonio TUESDAY, MARCH 6 ROOM CHANGE! (This month only) Wesley Hall 703 & 704 Topic: Sleep Apnea Speaker: Academy of Pediatrics Physicians TUESDAY, APRIL 3 Topic: Community Living Options Speaker: Pam Kelley, RMI TUESDAY, MAY 1 Topic: Special Needs - Special Dentistry Speaker: Special Care Dentistry
www.dsasa.org NEW BRAUNFELS PARENT SUPPORT GROUP The Down Syndrome Association’s New Braunfels Branch serves families in Comal and Guadalupe counties. Gruene United Methodist Church 2629 E. Common St., New Braunfels, TX 78130
2012 DSASA Calendars available for sale!
Third Thursday of each month from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Childcare is available with an RSVP to 210-349-4372. Other News: Every third Saturday, The ARC in New Braunfels holds a dance for all children with special needs. Please call Gloria Pinal at 830-609-9363 for more details.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 19 Topic: P.A.L.S Training #1 Speaker: Brighton Center THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16 Topic: P.A.L.S Training #2 Speaker: Brighton Center THURSDAY, MARCH 8 Topic: P.A.L.S Training #3 Speaker: Brighton Center THURSDAY, APRIL 19 Topic: PALS - ARD Training #1 Speaker: Brighton Center THURSDAY, MAY 17 Topic: ARD Training #2 Speaker: Brighton Center
Fun Run Rally
4th Annual Fun Run Rally and Family Event Saturday, April 14, 2012 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Caliente Harley-Davidson 7230 NW Loop 410 @ Culebra (exit #10) Fun Run Rally: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Family Celebration: 1 - 4 p.m. Join us for Music, Food and Games! For event sponsorship opportunities or for more information please contact the DSASA office at 210-349-4372.
2012 DSASA Calendar Order Form Quantity
______
2012 DSASA 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: Name:_________________________________________________ Birthdate:_______________________________________________ Ship to: Name:_________________________________________________ Address:_______________________________________________ City, State, Zip:__________________________________________ Phone:_________________________________________________ E-mail:________________________________________________ Please send your check or money order along with this form to:
Down Syndrome Association of San Antonio 2800 NW Loop 410, San Antonio, TX 782130 Credit card orders can be placed online in our new DSASA Store or by phone to the DSASA office 210-349-4372
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Parent Alliance for Learning and Support (PALS) Training is coming to the New Braunfels Group! PALS is a program from Brighton Center that is dedicated to empowering parents and professionals with knowledge of special education law. Through the DSASA, you will attend 3 PALS sessions where each participant learns how to communicate effectively, understands the state and federal laws governing special education, and learns to navigate the most appropriate education for your child. You will also be able to attend 2 ARD clinics which offer information to parents in a group setting. Learning about one specific topic, this will assist parents with any questions regarding a specific diagnosis or disability. After attending all 5 sessions you will receive 1 and a half years of free ARD support from Brighton.
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Treasurer's Report D.A.D.S.
Receipts Donations Grant Income Valero Children's Charities Fundraising Income Programs & Outreach Total Receipts
$ 32,344.10 $ 58,000.00 $ 25,000.00 $ 186,182.95 $ 17,941.57 $ 319,468.62
Expenses Buddy Walk Expenses Other Fundraising Programs Expenses Parent Support Expenses Outreach Expenses Newsletter Festivities Expenses Conferences Education Seminars Blackbaud Administrative Operations Salaries and Benefits New Braunfels DSA Branch Marketing Floresville DSA Branch Governmental Affairs Total Expenses
$ 38,822.26 $ 1,165.47 $ 8,986.39 $ 1,959.64 $ 14,332.58 $ 7,137.02 $ 8,667.38 $ 16,811.03 $ 1,900.32 $ 7,463.99 $ 39,324.32 $ 123,813.05 $ 13,434.09 $ 443.03 $ 219.67 $ 42.10 $ 284,522.34
Net Income
$
34,946.28
Hoot N Holler Thank you for your support of the 2011 Hoot N Holler! The 2nd Annual Hoot on October 22, 2011 was sold out to 350 people, and together we raised over $42,000 for the Down Syndrome Association of San Antonio! Yee-Haw! We had an awesome night filled with amazing bar-b-q, a watering trough, live entertainment by the Jay Eric Band, a silent auction, raffles, games and more!
What is 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. The 3 foundational pillars of D.A.D.S. are Support, Action and Fellowship. You won’t find us in a church basement drinking warm coffee and whining about having children with Down syndrome. Instead, you’ll find us out in the community coaching our kids’ sports teams, participating in our children’s IEPs, volunteering at local Down syndrome fundraising events, and even sponsoring fundraising events of our own. The cornerstone of D.A.D.S. groups is the monthly meeting where members come together to share insights and experiences. Face it: there are certain responsibilities that generally fall on the shoulders of the father. Having a child with special needs often affects how we approach those responsibilities. 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. Your colleagues at the office may not understand your excitement when your 5 year old makes “poopie” on the toilet for the first time, but other D.A.D.S. will, because we’ve all been there. THURSDAY, MARCH 1 – 7 P.M. DSASA Office upstairs, 2800 NW Loop 410, San Antonio 78230 MONDAY, APRIL 9 The Club at Sonterra. Please watch for additional information! For sponsorship information, please contact the DSA office at 210-349-4372.
THURSDAY, MAY 3 – 7 P.M. DSASA Office upstairs, 2800 NW Loop 410, San Antonio 78230
Special thanks to Anderson-Jenkins Signature Homes, our Trail Boss Level Sponsor. Thank you to the following Cowboy Level Sponsors: New Braunfels Pediatrics Tin Star Roofing The Kitchen and Bath Showplace Green Plumbing Bud Light The night would not have happened without the hospitality of Freiheit Country Store and the hard-working Hoot Committee! Thank you all for helping to raise awareness of Down syndrome!
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Special Events
9th ANNUAL AUDREY'S DAY AT THE BEACH It’s time for the 9th annual “Audrey’s Day at the Beach” in Rockport, Texas. The Shockley family will be hosting the event on Saturday, June 9th to help promote awareness of Down syndrome in memory of their daughter/granddaughter Audrey. The day will start at approximately 8:30 a.m. and last until dark at the Rockport Beach Park. There will be kayaking and cane pole fishing, in addition to boat rides on a nature study boat for viewing various birds and native wildlife. Or you can just hang out on the beach, build sandcastles, and play in the water. Don’t forget your lawn chairs, sunscreen, and beach toys. Once again, we will be using the large air-conditioned pavilion on the beach that will offer relief from the sun and heat. Lunch and a snack will be provided. If there are any special dietary needs, you will need to bring the special food for those individuals. Please bring your own extra snacks and drinks to make sure you stay hydrated during the day. Feel free to spend the entire weekend in beautiful Rockport, Texas, as many of our families do. For planning purposes, please RSVP by May 25th to the DSASA office at 210-349-4372 or sanderson@dsasa.org. More information will be posted in the next newsletter, but if you plan to stay the weekend, be sure to start looking into places to stay now. http://www.rockport-fulton.org. SPRING PICNIC Come spend a beautiful day with your DSASA friends at our annual family picnic at Landa Park in New Braunfels! This year’s picnic will be held on Sunday, May 20th from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Pavilions #4, #5 and #6. Food will be served. Don’t forget your swimsuits, towels, water shoes, and sunscreen for water fun time in the Comal River. You may also want to bring your lawn chairs. If you plan to attend, you must RSVP by Friday May 11th with the number of adults and children attending to sanderson@dsasa.org or 210-349-4372. Hope to see everyone there! Directions from the San Antonio area: Take IH 35 North, towards Austin. Take Exit #187 and turn left at the light. You will be on Seguin Avenue. Follow Seguin Avenue to Main Plaza (traffic circle) in downtown New Braunfels. Go halfway around the traffic circle and exit (right) back onto Seguin Avenue by the Courthouse. Immediately get into the left lane. At the second traffic light, turn right on Landa Park Drive at the entrance to Landa Park. Pavilions #4, #5 and #6 are located past the train on the right side.
DSA DAY AT FIESTA ESPECIAL Saturday, April 21 • 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Enjoy a day at Fiesta Especial with the Down Syndrome Association! We are offering 1 free ticket for individuals with Down syndrome (ages 0-12) and their siblings or 1 free ticket for teens and adults with Down syndrome (ages 13 and up) and one friend with special needs. All other tickets for parent, other family members, friends and guests will be $5 each. ALL tickets include entry plus 5 free rides! To participate we MUST have an RSVP and payment no later than Friday, April 6! We hope to see you there! Fiesta Especial Royal Court The selection process for the Fiesta Especial Royal Court gives nonprofits that serve children or adults with disabilities a chance to raise money and visibility for their mission while supporting an official Fiesta event for people of all ages and abilities. All participating nonprofits receive 50% of the total they raise. The King and Queen, Dukes and Duchesses, Prince and Princess and Pages for Fiesta Especial will be determined by the total amount of votes (dollars) they receive by January 31, 2012. Members of the Royal Court will represent Fiesta Especial and your organization at official Fiesta events during March and April in 2012. We are excited to announce the DSASA 2012 Fiesta Especial Candidates for Prince and Princess: Julian C. and Jada C.! Vote for our candidates by contributing $1 ($1 = 1 vote). You can call the office (210-349-4372), go to our website (www.dsasa.org); mail in your checks and start collecting cash among family and friends. All donations need to be in by January 31st.
Birdies for Charity
The DSASA is a participant in Birdies for Charity. Birdies for Charity is a fundraising program designed by Golf San Antonio to give participating organizations the opportunity to generate contributions through the Valero Texas Open. Birdies for Charity is a no-cost program that gives 100% of the funds raised back to the participating organization. Funds are generated by soliciting pledges from individuals and corporations. Birdies for Charity is like a walk-a-thon, but instead of donating per mile, participants make a pledge for every birdie made at the Valero Texas Open. The 2011 Valero Texas Open had 1,950 birdies made, so a pledge of $0.01 yielded a donation of $19.50. Donors also have the ability to make a one-time donation and flexibility to pay in advance or be billed after the tournament. Donations are accepted from anywhere around the world and are tax deductible. To support the Down Syndrome Association, please visit the Birdies for Charity Donation Page (http://valerotexasopen.org/ charities/birdies-for-charities/) where you can pledge as little as $0.01 per birdie. What a fun way to give back to the DSASA!
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Keeping Up With Downs
Educational
ARC of San Antonio – Education Seminars Guardianship and Special Needs Trusts Presented by Anna Torres, Attorney Saturday • March 24, 2012 9 am - 11 am Participants will learn about special needs trusts including how beneficiaries can maintain money or property and avoid losing access to essential long term benefits. Differences between guardianship and power of attorney will also be discussed. Day to Day Life After School: An Overview Saturday • April 14, 2012 • 9 am - 11 am Information will be available on a wide range of residential, day program and leisure options for individuals once they graduate or age out of the school system. • Childcare option: Respite Care of San Antonio offers Family Day Out at the PSC on Saturdays 9 am - 4 pm. You MUST be registered with Respite to utilize this service. Contact Oralia Waldron at 210-737-1212 ext. 15 TAPPestry Conference 2012 – “Planting the Seeds … for a World of Opportunity” Saturday, February 25, 2012 • Education Service Center, Region 20 1314 Hines, San Antonio, TX 78208 TAPPestry brings together parents and professionals working with children with special needs for a day of shared wisdom, ideas, strategies, and resources to strengthen the needed partnerships for children's success. This year's keynote speaker is Micah Fialka-Feldman. Micah Fialka-Feldman, 27, recently completed the OPTIONS program at Oakland University in Michigan. He is part of the new wave of adults with intellectual disabilities attending college. Micah enjoys presenting at conferences on advocacy, post secondary education, and self determination, and his experiences learning and living on a university campus. To learn more about Micah, visit his website www.throughthesamedoor.com. Breakout Sessions will include: Bullying • Facilitated IEPs • Social Skills Training • Challenging Behavior • ARD 101 • Joint Attention • Tools for ARD Meetings • Sexuality • Dyslexia • Guardianship • Autism • Using Technology • Positive Parent/Teacher/Student Communication • Post-Secondary Options • Transition • Maximizing YOUR child’s potential • Feeding Difficulties
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Pre-registration Deadline: February 17, 2012 - Registrations received after this date will be accepted on a walk-in, as space is available basis. Please Note: No children will be allowed in the conference center. To register, contact Lori Williams at 210-370-5466 or by email at lori.williams@esc20.net. 19th Annual Inclusion Works! Conference From Disability to Possibility... The Renaissance Hotel, 9721 Arboretum Blvd. Austin, Texas February 1-4, 2012 The Arc of Texas’ Inclusion Works! Conference is the premiere learning event on inclusive education practices in Texas. Online Registration available at www.tharcoftexas.org Master Sessions by: Dr. Patrick Schwarz, author of From Disability to Possibility The Power of Inclusive Classrooms. Dan Habib, film maker and father of Including Samuel fame. See a sneak preview of Dan Habib's newest film, Education Revolution, about the inclusion of students with emotional/behavioral challenges through positive behavioral interventions and supports. Additional Sessions: Brain Research • Co-Teaching • StandardsBased IEPs • Positive Behavior Interventions & Supports • Differentiating Instruction and Inclusive Education • Inclusive Practices at the Preschool & Secondary Level • R.T.I. (Response to Intervention) • Transition • Self-Advocacy • and MUCH MORE! TEXAS ADVANCED LEADERSHIP AND ADVOCACY CONFERENCE February 26-28, 2012 Embassy Suites Austin Central This annual conference provides leadership and advocacy training to adults with disabilities, parents of children with disabilities, and professionals in the disability field. Applications for TALAC are now online at http://talac.tamu.edu/.
www.dsasa.org
Kid Connection
The Down Syndrome Association 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 DSASA 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 Stephanie Anderson at sanderson@dsasa.org or 210-349-4372. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18 – 10 A.M. – FUNTASTIC PLAYLAND Bring the Kids for some jumping fun and don’t forget your socks! 7142 San Pedro, 112, San Antonio, TX 78216. Please RSVP by Wednesday, February, 15th! SATURDAY, MARCH 31 – 10:30 A.M. – SAN ANTONIO ZOO Get wild with a trip to the Zoo! We will meet at the education center and go in as a group. Don’t forget a sack lunch. 3903 North St. Mary's Street, San Antonio, Texas 78212. Please RSVP by Friday, March 23 so we can purchase advance tickets. SATURDAY, APRIL 21 – DSASA FAMILY DAY AT FIESTA ESPECIAL Check-in time is between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. See page 5 for details.
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 DSASA for the teen and one special needs, age-appropriate friend. Please RSVP for each event to Stephanie Anderson at sanderson@dsasa.org or 210-349-4372. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4 – 6 to 8 P.M. – TEEN KARAOKE PARTY Bring your best singing voice and wear your dancing shoes! Snacks will be served. Pam Stephens Center, 6530 Wurzbach Road, San Antonio, TX 78240. Please RSVP by Wednesday, February 1. SATURDAY, MARCH 3 – 1 P.M. – ICE & GOLF CENTER AT NORTHWOODS Let’s have some fun and try for a Hole in One! 17530 Henderson Pass, San Antonio, TX 78232. Please RSVP by Wednesday, February 29. SATURDAY, APRIL 21 – DSASA FAMILY DAY AT FIESTA ESPECIAL Check-in time is between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. See page 5 for details. SUNDAY, MAY 20 - ANNUAL DSASA PICNIC See page 5 for details.
SUNDAY, MAY 20 - ANNUAL DSASA PICNIC See page 5 for details.
News & Notes
Order your Holiday Party Pictures online! http://www.chrisreillyphoto.com/ Click on the portfolio tab. Click on DSA 2011 Holiday Party. From here you can view the family and/or the Santa photos. Thank You! Thanks to the Downtown Rotary Club of New Braunfels! The DSASA was a beneficiary of the Wild Dame Dinner on September 15, 2011. We received just shy of $15,000 and were able to promote awareness at the event to over 300 women.
Special teams soccer spring 2012 Saturday practices begin Saturday, February 4 at 3 p.m. Tuesday practices begin on Tuesday, March 13 at 6 p.m. The first game will be on Saturday, February 25 at 3 p.m. These games will replace the Saturday practice times. Location: McAllister Park Lower Bee Tree fields. Registration Fee: $60 to be submitted at the first practice. For more information, visit the website at www.specialteamssoccer.com or contact Terry & Jackie Thompson at jacthom17@yahoo.com or specialteamssoccer@sbcglobal.net.
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Meet Your Representatives by Leah Chapa, Co-Chair, Texas Down syndrome Advocacy Coalition
past 30 or so years - an extraordinary story and a lesson for the road ahead of us.
It was July 2011 that we hosted our first Texas Down Syndrome Advocacy Coalition (TDAC) Conference, previously called the Alliance of Texas Down Syndrome Associations. During that conference, we officially united approximately 18 Down Representative syndrome affiliates across our great state. We John Davis had numerous representatives and their staff in attendance. Meeting these legislators compelled me to consider introducing our DSASA membership to the people who have the ability to impact the lives of those with disabilities living in Texas.
When you have the time, please consider dropping Representative Davis a note thanking him for standing with us!!
Representative John Davis, District 129, was one of our honorable guests. He co-authored House Bill 1481 relating to the use of person first respectful language in reference to individuals with disabilities. He authored HR 939 recognizing March 21, 2011 as World Down Syndrome Day. Additionally, he authored HB 1720 relating to certain facilities and care providers (including providers under the state Medicaid program) and to improving health care provider accountability and efficiency under the child health plan and Medicaid programs (providing penalties). He also supports changes to CSHB 15 in order to help protect fetuses determined to have genetic disorders. Representative Davis is a strong advocate for people with disabilities and shared a compelling story to explain his sensitivity to our cause. When he was young, he and his brother were anticipating the birth of their third sibling. The nursery was prepared and Mom was taken to the hospital, anxious to bring home her new gift; however, that precious gift did not return home. The nursery was dismantled and the boys were given the explanation that their new brother had died. It wasn't until many years later that Representative Davis discovered that his brother had not died, but instead was born with Down syndrome. Today such a story brings shock and dismay; however, the strong advice given from the medical staff, clergy, friends and various other professionals to the parents of people born with disabilities was in overwhelming support of institutional life. How many of us have been similarly counseled? How far have we really come when some medical professionals continue encouraging aborting these babies; when the new blood test is a way to “finally end the problem of Down syndrome”? The battle continues, and we desperately need YOU and our legislators to carry our stories forward. You'll be happy to know that Representative Davis and his family have enjoyed a wonderful relationship with his brother for the
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Rep. Davis, John E. Email (http://www.house.state.tx.us/members/member-page/ email/?district=129&session=82) Capitol Address: Room CAP 4S.03, Capitol P.O. Box 2910, Austin, TX 78768 512-463-0734 • 512-479-6955 Fax
Adult Matters!
Adult Matters! is a social program specifically designed for our adults with DS 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 DS, 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. DSASA will pay the participation fee for both of them.We realize that our adults depend on family and friends for transportation to and from these activities, so we will always try to plan activities that offer a place where parents/guardians can gather nearby (restaurant, coffee shop, etc.) and visit with each other during the event. Please RSVP for each event to Stephanie Anderson at sanderson@dsasa.org or 210-349-4372. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11 – 2 PM – BOWLING Brunswick Thousand Oaks Bowl 4330 Thousand Oaks Blvd., San Antonio, TX 78217 Please RSVP by Wednesday, February 8. SATURDAY, MARCH 3 – 7 to 10 P.M. – SPRING FORMAL DANCE Aldaco’s Restaurant Sunset Station 100 East Hoefgen, San Antonio, TX 78205 Please RSVP no later than Monday, February 27. SATURDAY, APRIL 21 - DSASA FAMILY DAY AT FIESTA ESPECIAL Check-in time is between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. See page 5 for details. SUNDAY, MAY 20 - ANNUAL DSASA PICNIC See page 5 for details.
www.dsasa.org
Playgroup The Down Syndrome Association Playgroup is a playtime for children ages 0-3 and their parents. The DSASA 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 Stephanie Anderson at sanderson@dsasa.org or 210-349-4372. TUESDAY, JANUARY 10, 17, 24, 31 and FEBRUARY 7, 14, 21, 28 — KINDERMUSIK 11 - 11:45 a.m., Music Arts Center Northwest (IH 10 & De Zavala), 12732 Cimarron Path, Ste. 100, 78249. Please RSVP if you are planning to attend since materials are needed for each lesson. Topic: Outside My Window - You and your child will enjoy a range of imagination and listening skills in Outside My Window. This month’s unit has the learning focus: “I hear and I listen. I can be loud or quiet.” The take-home magazine-style Family Guide provides an activity idea using Track 7 on the Home CD which features different rain sounds. Listen at home and find empty cans, uncooked rice, cardboard boxes, or uncooked pasta to imitate those sounds. In a child’s visual world, this exercise helps bring focus to the attention required for listening. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11 - 3 P.M. - THE LITTLE GYM Let’s get moving, Playgroup! Join us for some parent/child play time at The Little Gym, 20711 Wilderness Oaks Suite 106, San Antonio, TX 78258. Please RSVP by Friday, February 3! TUESDAY, MARCH 20, 27 and APRIL 3, 10, 17, 24 — KINDERMUSIK 11 - 11:45 a.m., Music Arts Center Northwest (IH 10 & De Zavala), 12732 Cimarron Path, Ste. 100, 78249. Please RSVP if you are planning to attend since materials are needed for each lesson. Topic: Let's Play - All the ways you play—at home, in the school yard, during your family time together—is this month’s theme. In class we’ll play “Follow the Leader” and other playground games to help your toddler develop listening and singing skills while strengthening movement and hand-eye coordination. In your Home Kit, find more activities, songs, and games you can do together to play and learn at home, too. Home Kit: Mini Tambourine, Home CD, and magazine-style Family Guide (includes the class story Golden Bear). SATURDAY, MARCH 24 at 10:30 A.M. - HEMISFAIR PARK Spring is in the air! We will meet for some outdoor fun. Bring your sack lunch for a picnic. 200 S. Alamo, San Antonio, Texas 78205. Please RSVP by Wednesday, March 21!
Board Highlight by Edward Leos
Family. Familia. Same word in two different languages, but is in the heart of Noe De la Garza, a member of the Down Syndrome Association of San Antonio’s Board of Directors. The Beginning Born in a small town in Mexico called Cuatro Cienegas, Coahuila, De la Garza spent his childhood between there and Monterrey, Mexico, where he graduated from the University of Monterrey with a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing and Economics. This is also around the time when he met his future wife, Adriana, whom he married in 2004. Following their marriage, the two moved to Denver to finish Noe’s Master’s Degree before heading to North Carolina and eventually start working for Univision, with whom he is currently employed. Working Man Noe is currently an account executive and manages spot sales in Mexico, so he travels to and from Mexico quite frequently. He loves what he does and is always the epitome of professionalism. Even though his job requires being in a suit each day, when the weekends come, he is all about being in his jeans, boots, and cowboy hat. Additionally, you will find him doing anything related to music from listening to playing his guitar. La Familia Family is also at the core of Noe’s existence. He and Adriana are blessed with three incredible children, Maria Fernanda (5), Noe (3), and Eugenio (8 months). Noe’s youngest son was born with Down syndrome and sparked his immediate interest in getting involved with the organization. “In my couple of months with the Association I have met so many wonderful people along the way that I am sure God put me on this path for a purpose,” De la Garza said. “I love what the Association has offered me and my family. We really hope we can give back the same amount of blessings that we have received.” Vision De la Garza has many big goals for the DSASA, including assisting the Hispanic and low-income populations of our organization, as well as really paving greater paths for youth and young adults with Down syndrome.
SATURDAY, APRIL 21 - DSASA FAMILY DAY AT FIESTA ESPECIAL Check-in between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. See page 5 for details. SUNDAY, MAY 20 - ANNUAL DSASA PICNIC See page 5 for details.
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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. Alamo Heights Lions Club Alfred Gerloff Antoinette James Ashley Waclawiak AT&T United Way Employee Giving Campaign Aubrey Steffen Barbara Jackson in memory of Mary Murray Bill Cade - HUGS Program Camilia Todd in memory of Janice Pape Chamberlin Center for Maternal-Fetal Care Christopher Lucas in memory of Mary Murray Christopher Weaver in memory of James Weaver Christy Anderson - HUGS Program Citigroup Employee Giving Campaign Conrad Housler Debbie Albright - HUGS Program Deerfield Animal Hospital - Birdies for Charity Duggan and Massey in memory of Mary Murray Elna Jeanes Golf San Antonio - Birdies for Charity Greg Langas - HUGS Program HEB Charitable Trust Jackie Eaton in memory of Mary Murray James Collins - HUGS Program James Lonergan in memory of Mary Murray James Snyder Janice Troy - HUGS Program Jay Rogers in memory of Janice Pape Chamberlin Jessica Lopez Julie Perales Kathy Carrizales - HUGS Program Keith Askin Larry Rogers - HUGS Program Leticia Salvatierra in honor of Larry Salvatierra Lydia Beach - HUGS Program Manuel Huerta in memory of Duncan McNaughton Marcia Robinson Margie Peak in memory of Mary Murray Maria Hey - HUGS Program Marie McEnroe in honor of Briana Troy Mary Ellen Ryan Mary Jane Hardy in memory of Mary Murray Mary L. Simon in memory of Harold Simon Maureen O'Shea in memory of Mary Murray Michelle Pettit - HUGS Program Miroslava Arcos in honor of Hannah Villarreal Neal Matthews - HUGS Program Pages Printing in memory of Mary Murray Pete Aceves - HUGS Program Phyllis Van Buskirk in memory of Mary Murray
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Raul Chapa in honor of Julian Chapa Richard Chaney in honor of Corey Wyckoff Richard Wyckoff in honor of Corey Wyckoff Roxane Galvan in honor of Henry and Yolanda Galvan San Antonio Children's Foundation - Birdies for Charity Sharon McConnell St. Mary's Church - Oak Ridge in memory of Mary Murray Stella Carrigan in memory of Mary Murray Stephen Ramseur in honor of Riley Ramseur Sunflower Home Repair in memory of Janice Pape Chamberlin Susan Christensen in memory of Mary Murray Terri Mauldin - HUGS Program Thomas Murray in memory of Mary Murray Thompson Print & Mailing Solutions in memory of Mary Murray United Health Group - Employee Giving Campaign Valero Energy Foundation Virginia Rios in honor of Alex Rios W. M. Ott in honor of Catherine Nivin William J. Smith in memory of Mary Murray Zachary Edwards - HUGS Program
Meet Jada
Jada Cherry is 13 years old and an 8th grader at Hector P. Garcia Middle School, she is in the ALE program, and attends the Acting Up Academy after school. Jada participated in the choir for her 6th and 7th grade year and is currently in the school arts program. Jada has served as Jada Cherry the 7th /8th grade volleyball manager. Jada has been on the A/B honor roll for the last 3 years and is looking forward to attending Louis D. Brandeis High School in the fall. Jada is a girl scout in Troop 1915, and she enjoys selling cookies annually, and learning and growing with the other young ladies of Troop 1915. Jada is also a member of the Keen Teens as a part of Jack and Jill of America where she works with kids her age on different community events and activities. Jada has participated in the San Antonio Jack and Jill of America Chapter Founder’s Day Fashion Show and Luncheon. Jada is junior chair of Team Jada All Stars, a nonprofit organization raising awareness and promoting the inclusion of children and young adults into regular activities and programs for all. Jada loves to dance and has participated in several dance workshops with the Silver Stars. Jada enjoys playing basketball and bowling she is participant in the North Side School District Olympics and has competed and won several medals in various events. She is a BIG Justin Beiber fan and is often spotted dancing and singing around the house to Rihanna, Taylor Swift, Katy Perry and Nicki Minaj tunes. To her family and friends, Jada is special but in that she is just an average teen girl who enjoys talking on her cell phone, shopping, beating everyone at Wii or Xbox Kinect and just hanging out with her girlfriends.
www.dsasa.org
Inspirational Target Is ‘Down’ With Down Syndrome: 5 Things Target Said By Saying Nothing At All By Rick Smith of “noah’s DAD” website (http://noahsdad.com/) If you were browsing through this week’s Target ad (week of January 2, 2012) you may have passed right over the adorable little boy in the bright orange shirt smiling at you on page 9! And if so, I’m glad! The reason I’m glad? Well, that stylish young man in the orange shirt is Ryan. Ryan just so happened to have been born with Down syndrome, and I’m glad that Target included a model with Down syndrome in their typical ad! This wasn’t a “Special Clothing For Special People” catalog. There wasn’t a callout somewhere on the page proudly proclaiming that “Target’s proud to feature a model with Down syndrome in this week’s ad!” And they didn’t even ask him to model a shirt with the phrase, “We Aren’t All Angels” printed on the front. In other words, they didn’t make a big deal out of it. I like that. Even though Target didn’t make a big deal out of the fact they used a boy with Down syndrome as a model in their ad, they said plenty. They said the same things that Nordstrom said when they used Ryan as a model in their catalog this past summer. I could list a hundred things Target said by running this ad, let me give you 5 that immediately come to mind: 1. They said that people born with Down syndrome deserve to be treated the same as every other person on this planet. 2. They said that it’s time for organizations to be intentional about seeking creative ways to help promote inclusion, not exclusion. (It’s no accident that Target used a model with Down syndrome in this ad; it was an intentional decision. If we want the world to be a place where everyone is treated equal, we can’t just sit around and watch the days tick away. We have to be intentional. We have to do something). 3. They said that companies don’t have to call attention to the fact that they choose to be inclusive in order for people to notice their support for people with disabilities. In fact, by not making a big deal out of it, they are doing a better job of showing their support for the special needs community. 4. They said it’s important for the world to see people born with disabilities with a fresh set of eyes. That it’s time for us to lay down all the inaccurate stereotypes from the past and move forward embracing the future with true and accurate ones. 5. They said you don’t have to spend a lot for your kids to look good! (I mean come on, that shirt’s only five bucks!)
Who We Are mission statement The DSASA’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@dsasa.org
community outreach coordinator Angie Cronin 210-349-4372 • acronin@dsasa.org
Special Events Coordinator Stephanie Anderson 210-349-4372 • sanderson@dsasa.org
DSA Bookkeeper Vicky Akers 210-349-4372 • vakers@dsasa.org
adult continuing education director Hilda Tovar 210-349-4372 • htovar@dsasa.org
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chairperson – Christy Anderson Vice Chairperson – Edward Leos Secretary – Lisa Drozdick Treasurer/Finance – 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 www.facebook.com/dsa.sanantonio
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Calendar of Events january 10,17,24,31 - Playgroup Kinder Music: Music Arts Center Northwest, 12732 Cimarron Path, Ste. 100, 11 a.m. 17 San Antonio Southside PSG: Dreams Fulfilled Through Music, De Paul Family Center, 7607 Somerset Road, 6 - 7:30 p.m. 19 New Braunfels PSG: PALS Training #1, Gruene UMC, 2629 E. Common St., 6 - 7:30 p.m. 21 Kid Connection: Clay Casa, 502 Embassy Oaks #107, 10 a.m. february 7, 14, 21, 28 - Playgroup Kinder Music: Music Arts Center Northwest, 12732 Cimarron Path, Ste. 100, 11 a.m. 4 Teen Club: Teen Karaoke Party, Pam Stephens Center, 6530 Wurzbach, 6 - 8 p.m. 7 San Antonio Northside PSG: What Happens After High School?, Coker UMC, 231 E. North Loop Rd. Gibbs 1108, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. 11 Playgroup: The Little Gym, 20711 Wilderness Oak, Suite 106, 3 p.m. 11 Adult Matters: Bowling, Brunswick Thousand Oaks, 4330 Thousand Oaks Blvd., 2 p.m. 14 Boerne PSG: Meet & Greet, St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, 202 W. Kronkosky St., Boerne, Room # 148 FLC, 6 - 8 p.m. 16 New Braunfels PSG: PALS Training #2, Gruene UMC, 2629 E. Common St., 6 - 7:30 p.m. 18 Kid Connection: Funtastic Playland, 7142 San Pedro #112, 10 a.m. 21 San Antonio Southside PSG: PALS Training #1, De Paul Family Center, 7607 Somerset Road, 6 - 7:30 p.m. march 20, 27- Playgroup Kinder Music: Music Arts Center Northwest, 12732 Cimarron Path, Ste. 100, 11 a.m. 1 D.A.D.S.: Meeting at the DSASA Office, 2800 NW Loop 410, 7 p.m. 3 Adult Matters!: Spring Formal Dance, Aldaco’s Restaurant Sunset Station, 100 East Hoefgen, San Antonio, 7 p.m. 3 Teen Club: Ice and Golf Center at Northwoods, 17530 Henderson Pass, San Antonio, 1 p.m. 6 San Antonio Northside PSG: Sleep Apnea, Coker UMC, 231 E. North Loop Rd. Wesley 703 & 704 (Room Change!), 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. 8 New Braunfels PSG: PALS Training #3, Gruene UMC, 2629 E. Common St., 6 - 7:30 p.m.
march 13 Boerne PSG: Meet & Greet, St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, 202 W. Kronkosky St., Boerne, Room # 148 FLC, 6 - 8 p.m. 20 San Antonio Southside PSG: PALS Training #2, De Paul Family Center, 7607 Somerset Road, 6 - 7:30 p.m. 24 Playgroup: Hemisfair Park, 200 S. Alamo, San Antonio, 10:30 a.m. 31 Kid Connection: San Antonio Zoo, 3903 North St. Mary’s Street, San Antonio, 10:30 a.m. april 3, 10, 17, 24 - Playgroup Kinder Music: Music Arts Center Northwest, 12732 Cimarron Path, Ste. 100, 11 a.m. 3 San Antonio Northside PSG: Community Living Options, Coker UMC, 231 E. North Loop Rd. Gibbs 1108, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. 9 D.A.D.S. Golf Tournament: The Club at Sonterra 10 Boerne PSG: Meet & Greet, St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, 202 W. Kronkosky St., Boerne, Room # 148 FLC, 6 - 8 p.m. 14 Fun Run Rally & Family Event: Caliente Harley-Davidson, 7230 NW Loop 410 at Culebra, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. 17 San Antonio Southside PSG: PALS Training #3, De Paul Family Center, 7607 Somerset Road, 6 - 7:30 p.m. 19 New Braunfels PSG: PALS ARD Training #1, Gruene UMC, 2629 E. Common St., 6 - 7:30 p.m. 21 DSASA Family Day: Fiesta Especial, Rackspace, 5000 Walzem Rd., San Antonio, 10 a.m. may 1 San Antonio Northside PSG: Open Forum, Coker UMC, 231 E. North Loop Rd. Gibbs 1108, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. 3 D.A.D.S.: Meeting at the DSASA Office, 2800 NW Loop 410, 7 p.m. 8 Boerne PSG: Meet & Greet, St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, 202 W. Kronkosky St., Boerne, Room # 148 FLC, 6 - 8 p.m. 15 San Antonio Southside PSG: PALS ARD Clinic #1, De Paul Family Center, 7607 Somerset Road, 6 - 7:30 p.m. 17 New Braunfels PSG: PALS ARD Training #2, Gruene UMC, 2629 E. Common St., 6 - 7:30 p.m. 20 DSASA Annual Picnic: Landa Park, New Braunfels, TX, Pavilions #4, 5, 6; 1 - 6 p.m. june 9 Audrey’s Day at the Beach: Rockport Beach Park, Rockport, TX, 8:30 a.m.∆1
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED Down Syndrome Association of San Antonio 2800 NW Loop 410 San Antonio, TX 78230 Nonprofit Org U.S. Postage paid San Antonio, TX Permit No 1126