Down Syndrome Association of South Texas July Newsletter by The Hotel Guide

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

Volume 15, Issue 3

JULY 2012

What’s

inside...

Executive Director................1 HUGS...................................1 Buddy Walk..........................2 Support Groups...................3 Teen Club.............................4 Adult Matters!......................4 Playgroup..............................5 Kid Connection....................5 Outreach...............................6 Meet Alice.............................7 Volunteer Highlight.............7 Working for You...................8 Special Events.......................9 D.A.D.S.................................9 Research Foundation.........10 Splashtown.........................10

Message from Terri Mauldin ... Welcome to the summer issue of the Down Syndrome Association’s newsletter! Summer is in full swing with lots of events, changes, and additions to the DSASTX. As many of you know, Stephanie Anderson had to resign from the DSASTX at the end of May. She felt she was needed at home with her children, which we totally understand; however, we miss her greatly. We have hired a new Special Events Coordinator, and I am very pleased to introduce Suzanne Westrum. Suzanne joined the DSASTX on June 1st and has been a great addition to the organization. Suzanne comes to us from Avenida Guadalupe Association and brings lots of event planning experience and also has experience in Communications and Public Relations. Please help me welcome Suzanne to the organization! The Spring Picnic held on Sunday, May 20th was a huge success! We had over 300 people attend and everyone had a wonderful time. I want to thank Toyota Texas for sponsoring the event, Shayne Anderson and Matt Mauldin for doing all the grilling, all the exhibitors that provided the games and activities for the guests, and all the families that came out to enjoy a wonderful day. On Saturday, June 9th, the 9th Annual Audrey’s Day at the Beach was held in Rockport, Texas. There were lots of families that attended this awesome event and enjoyed sun, water, food, and tons of fun. Thank you again to the Shockleys and all the volunteers

Holiday Party.....................10 Contributions.....................11 Who We Are.......................11 Calendar of Events.............12

www.dsastx.org

Downs Keeping Up With

Help Us Give Support

in Rockport! Bill, Jackie, Ray, and Aggie always host a wonderful event enjoyed by all! Don’t forget the Buddy Walk will be held on Saturday, September 29th at Heroes Stadium. The Terri Mauldin Buddy Walk website is open and ready for team registration and donations. For more information, please see the article later in this newsletter. As you can see, we are busy and we hope we are providing the best support and services to individuals with Down syndrome. They are our inspiration and make our jobs so enjoyable! In order for us to be as efficient as possible, I ask everyone to call the DSASTX office if you plan to attend any of our events. At most of our events, we provide food and refreshments, and we base the purchase of these items on the number of people who have RSVP’d. We also understand that plans can change after you have called the office, so please try to contact us to let us know that you will not be able to attend so we can adjust our numbers and not purchase unnecessary items. I hope everyone enjoys the rest of your summer, and I look forward to seeing everyone at the Buddy Walk on September 29th.

The DSASTX HUGS Annual Giving Program is an easy way to donate with a one-time gift or 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 DSASTX programs. Visit the DSASTX website – HUGS link to start your monthly giving today!

Keeping Up With Downs

12th Annual Buddy Walk 12th ANNUAL BUDDY WALK! The 2012 Buddy Walk will be held Saturday, September 29th, 2012 at Heroes Stadium, 4799 Thousand Oaks Dr. (Thousand Oaks and Wurzbach Parkway, near Morgan’s Wonderland) beginning at 7:00 a.m. Please join the San Antonio community as we celebrate the gifts and diversity of children, men, and women with Down syndrome and help raise awareness within our city of the need for acceptance and inclusion of these wonderful people! SCHEDULE OF EVENTS: 7:00 a.m. Registration 7:00 a.m. Exhibitors and Entertainment Begins 8:00 a.m. Opening Ceremonies 9:00 a.m. B uddy Walk begins around Heroes Stadium with Honorary Buddy Bruce Bowen REGISTRATION IS FREE! However, registration is still required by September 7th to guarantee a Buddy Walk T-shirt. T-shirts are not guaranteed if registering on the day of the walk. In addition, pre-registered t-shirts must be picked up prior to 9:00 a.m. at the Buddy Walk. Remember, Buddy Walk is the DSASTX’s biggest fundraiser of the year, so in lieu of a registration fee, we encourage you to make a tax deductible contribution and to raise donations from families and friends to support the programs and services of the DSASTX. Prizes will be awarded for the top fundraisers! Registration is now available online at www.dsastx.org. You may also print out a registration form and mail it in. Though registration is free, you must register in order to receive your T-shirt. You can also create your own Buddy Walk personal page to share with family, friends, doctors, therapists, and colleagues. It’s a convenient and simple way to share information about Buddy Walk and raise money through personalized emails to your supporters. PRE-WALK T-SHIRT PICK UP: Register, pick up your T-shirts, or submit donations at the Buddy Walk Pre-Walk T-shirt Pickup to be held on Saturday, September 22nd from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas’ office at 2800 NW Loop 410 (access road on eastbound 410 between Cherry Ridge and Vance Jackson). Remember, all pre-registered shirts MUST be picked up prior to 9:00 a.m. at Buddy Walk or they will not be guaranteed.

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PRIZES: For every $500 raised, the participant’s name will go into a drawing for a chance to win one of four prizes including a beach house stay in Port Aransas, a stay at the Westin La Cantera, a spot in the 2014 DSASTX Calendar (regardless of past participation), or a copier/printer/scanner for the home. The deadline for submission of donations is midnight on Saturday, September 22nd. AWARDS: Top 3 teams – the top 3 fundraising teams as of midnight on September 22nd will receive VIP canopies, a goody basket and recognition on the day of the walk. The team that raises the most money will walk with the Honorary Buddy, Bruce Bowen. CORPORATE SPONSORS: Thank you to HEB Tournament of Champions, Valero, The Gordon Hartman Family Foundation, Royal Management, Speech and Language Center at Stone Oak, River City Community Church, Lexus, Ageless Living Home Health, Allstate, Deerfield Animal Hospital, Institute for Women’s Health, Red McCombs, Therapy 2000, and Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union for their sponsorship of Buddy Walk 2012. If you know of a company that is interested in sponsoring the Buddy Walk, please contact the DSASTX office at 210-349-4372. WALK DAY VOLUNTEERS: If you are interested in volunteering on the day of the walk, please register online at www.dsastx.org or contact the DSASTX office at 210-349-4372 or info@dsastx.org.

2012 Honorary Buddy – Bruce Bowen

Presented by:

www.dsastx.org

There will be no September Parent Support Group meetings – Everyone come on out and enjoy the Buddy Walk!

Support Groups

Our monthly meetings of the Parent Support Groups are designed for parents, grandparents, siblings, and friends of children with Down syndrome. 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. TUESDAY, AUGUST 7 Topic: Buddy Walk Kick-Off Speaker: Terri Mauldin TUESDAY, OCTOBER 2 Topic: Special Needs Trusts Speaker: Jonathan R. Geserick MBA, JD TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6 Topic: Potty Training Speaker: Anissa Moore, The Arc of San Antonio

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! THURSDAY, AUGUST 16 Topic: Behavior Strategies Speaker: Lupe Castaneda, MS, MCBA THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18 Topic: Special Needs Trusts Speaker: Jonathan R. Geserick MBA, JD THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15 Topic: TBD Speaker: TBD

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

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

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!

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!

TUESDAY, AUGUST 21 Topic: Therapeutic Horseback Riding Speaker: Triple H Ranch

TUESDAY, AUGUST 14 Topic: Therapeutic Yoga Speaker: Jackie Valadez

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 16 Topic: Special Needs Trusts Speaker: Jonathan R. Geserick MBA, JD

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9 Topic: Special Needs Trusts Speaker: Jonathan R. Geserick MBA, JD

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 20 Topic: Behavior Strategies Speaker: Lupe Castaneda, MS, MCBA

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 13 Topic: Behavior Strategies Speaker: Lupe Castaneda, MS, MCBA

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Keeping Up With Downs

Teen Club

Adult Matters!

The Teen Club is open to any teen ages 13-17 with special needs. 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 Suzanne Westrum at swestrum@dsastx.org or 210-349-4372.

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 Suzanne Westrum at swestrum@dsastx.org or 210-349-4372.

SATURDAY, JULY 28 – FAMILY SWIM DAY AT THE ARC 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., 6530 Wurzbach Road, San Antonio, TX 78240. The ARC Pam Stephens Center has a fully accessible pool! Bring your snacks, sunscreen and towels and join us for this fun family day. Please RSVP by July 20th to 210-349-4372 or swestrum@dsastx.org. SATURDAY, AUGUST 25 – DSASTX FAMILY DAY AT SPLASHTOWN Families must arrive by 11:00 a.m. so group tickets may be purchased. No exceptions! DSASTX provides free admission for individuals with Down syndrome (ages 0-12) and their siblings OR free admission for teens and adults with Down syndrome (ages 13 and up) and one friend with special needs. All other tickets for parents, other family members, friends and guests will be charged the group rate admission. You MUST RSVP to 210-349-4372 or swestrum@dsastx.org no later than Monday, August 20th. Splashtown is located at 3600 IH 35 North, San Antonio, TX 78219. Don’t forget your towel and sunscreen! SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 – 12th ANNUAL BUDDY WALK Heroes Stadium. See page 2 for details. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 20 – MALIBU GRAND PRIX 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. – Malibu Grand Prix, 3330 Cherry Ridge Dr., San Antonio, TX 78230. Don’t forget to bring money for snacks and drinks! Please RSVP by October 17th to 210-349-3472 or swestrum@dsastx.org. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9 - PIZZA PARTY! 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. – Incredible Pizza, 11743 West Avenue, San Antonio, Texas 78216. Please bring extra money for games! Please RSVP by November 5th to 210-349-3472 or swestrum@dsastx.org.

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SATURDAY, JULY 28 – FAMILY SWIM DAY AT THE ARC 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m, 6530 Wurzbach Road, San Antonio, TX 78240. The ARC Pam Stephens Center has a fully accessible pool! Bring your snacks, sunscreen and towels and join us for this fun family day. Please RSVP by July 20th to 210-349-4372 or swestrum@dsastx.org. SATURDAY, AUGUST 25 – DSASTX FAMILY DAY AT SPLASHTOWN Families must arrive by 11:00 a.m. so group tickets may be purchased. No exceptions! DSASTX provides free admission for individuals with Down syndrome (ages 0-12) and their siblings OR free admission for teens and adults with Down syndrome (ages 13 and up) and one friend with special needs. All other tickets for parents, other family members, friends and guests will be charged the group rate admission. You MUST RSVP to 210-349-4372 or swestrum@dsastx.org no later than Monday, August 20th. Splashtown is located at 3600 IH 35 North, San Antonio, TX 78219. Don’t forget your towel and sunscreen! SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 – 12th ANNUAL BUDDY WALK Heroes Stadium. See page 2 for details. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 20 – MINIATURE GOLF 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. – Embassy Miniature Golf, 500 Embassy Oaks, San Antonio, TX 78216. Please RSVP by October 17th to 210-349-3472 or swestrum@dsastx.org. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9 - PIZZA PARTY! 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. – Incredible Pizza, 11743 West Avenue, San Antonio, Texas 78216. Please bring extra money for games! Please RSVP by November 5th to 210-349-3472 or swestrum@dsastx.org.

www.dsastx.org

Playgroup

Kid Connection

The Down Syndrome Association 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 Suzanne Westrum at swestrum@dsastx.org or 210-349-4372.

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 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 Suzanne Westrum at swestrum@dsastx.org or 210-349-4372.

SATURDAY, JULY 28 – FAMILY SWIM DAY AT THE ARC 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., 6530 Wurzbach Road, San Antonio, TX 78240. The ARC Pam Stephens Center has a fully accessible pool! Bring your snacks, sunscreen and towels and join us for this fun family day. Please RSVP by July 20th to 210-349-4372 or swestrum@dsastx.org. SATURDAY, AUGUST 25 – DSASTX FAMILY DAY AT SPLASHTOWN Families must arrive by 11:00 a.m. so group tickets may be purchased. No exceptions! DSASTX provides free admission for individuals with Down syndrome (ages 0-12) and their siblings OR free admission for teens and adults with Down syndrome (ages 13 and up) and one friend with special needs. All other tickets for parents, other family members, friends and guests will be charged the group rate admission. You MUST RSVP to 210-349-4372 or swestrum@dsastx.org no later than Monday, August 20th. Splashtown is located at 3600 IH 35 North, San Antonio, TX 78219. Don’t forget your towel and sunscreen! WEDNESDAYS, SEPTEMBER 5, 12, 19 & 26 KINDERMUSIK 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m., Music Arts Center Northwest (IH 10 & De Zavala), 12732 Cimarron Path, Ste. 100, 78249. Please RSVP to 210-349-4372 or swestrum@dsastx.org if you are planning to attend since materials are needed for each lesson. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 – 12th ANNUAL BUDDY WALK Heroes Stadium. See page 2 for details. WEDNESDAYS, OCTOBER 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31 KINDERMUSIK 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m., Music Arts Center Northwest (IH 10 & De Zavala), 12732 Cimarron Path, Ste. 100, 78249. Please RSVP to 210-349-4372 or swestrum@dsastx.org if you are planning to attend since materials are needed for each lesson. WEDNESDAYS, NOVEMBER 7, 14, & 28 - KINDERMUSIK 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m., Music Arts Center Northwest (IH 10 & De Zavala), 12732 Cimarron Path, Ste. 100, 78249. Please RSVP to 210-349-4372 or swestrum@dsastx.org if you are planning to attend since materials are needed for each lesson. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 8 - PIZZA PARTY! 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. – Incredible Pizza, 11743 West Avenue, San Antonio, Texas 78216. Please bring extra money for games! Please RSVP by November 5th to 210-349-3472 or swestrum@ dsastx.org.

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Keeping Up With Downs

Outreach

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. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d be happy to reach out to help in any way possible! Ariadane Alexandrides, sibling of George Thomas Noemi Alfaro, parent of Brian Alfaro Dina Alvarez, parent of Sammy Alvarez Isabelle Baker, parent of Shaun Kanner Ernest Benavides, sibling of Robert Benavides Mary Benavides, parent of Robert Benavides Tiffany Bonilla, parent of Nolan Bonilla Desiree Casillas, parent of Zacharia Casillas Briseida Cruz, parent of Karmine Garcia Ismael and Griselda Esquivias Maggie Felicella Clarence Fourman, parent of Christie Fourman Norma Galan, guardian of Olga Briseno Alexandria Garcia, parent of Ayden Ruiz Esmeralda Gonzales, parent of Jacquelin Gonzales Fernando Gonzalez, parent of Mason Gonzalez The Gruner Family The Harrison Family Joseda Hernandez, parent of Leonardo Hernandez Fanny Ibarhuen, parent of Celeste Ronquillo Heather Johnson, parent of Kayleigh Johnson Tammy Johnson, grandparent of Kayleigh Johnson Lucy Martinez, parent of Juan Martinez Ernesto Mata, parent of Sophia Mata Jo Napoli, parent of Kanr Napoli Dorothy Ortiz, parent of Mara Ortiz Iris Otero, parent of Rodrigo Alarcon Frank Pedroza, parent of Lola Pedroza Dan Ramos, sibling of Thomas Ramos Ivette Resto, parent of Bella Balderama Jacquelynne Rice, parent of Javel Rice Hector Rivera, parent of MaKayla Rivera Angela Scott, parent of Vincent Scott Lynn Sicoli, parent of Emma Sicoli Melissa Silva, parent of Aaron Serrano Jim Street, parent of Christy Pargas The Trevino Family Jacqueline Vazquez, parent of Cash Vazquez Andrea Vega, parent of Gavin Vega

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The annual Spring Picnic at Landa Park on May 20th was a huge success! We had approximately 300 people join us for an amazing day of food, swimming and family time. Thank you to everyone who participated!

www.dsastx.org

Meet Alice By Angel Chavez

Alice’s story begins on June 4, 1964 when Mom gave birth to her 9th child. It wasn’t until Alice’s first wellbaby visit that Mom was made aware of Alice’s diagnosis. The doctor told Mom Alice would not be able to hold up her head, would never be able to speak or walk, and she may never be able to recognize family. The doctor explained Alice also had a hole in her heart and didn’t give her a good prognosis. The doctor finally suggested Alice be put in an Alice Soto institution where professionals could care for her. But Mom would never do that. She could and would take care of her own baby, despite feeling devastation and confusion over this condition she knew so little about. The only true alliance was an elderly neighbor, Doña Anita, who fueled Mom’s determination that through love and persistence, Alice would learn and grow. Through the assistance of Doña Anita’s informal therapy, Alice was eventually able to raise her head, recognize her mother’s voice, wiggle and smile. As for the hole in Alice’s heart, it miraculously mended itself, and she never had surgery. Shortly after Alice turned 1, Mom gave birth to her 10th child. About the same time, one of our older sisters also gave birth to her first child, leaving Mom to babysit three babies! But those babies turned out to be Alice’s best teachers. When the babies learned to crawl, Alice pulled her body with her arms, dragging herself around to keep up. When the babies learned to walk, Alice learned to walk, trying to keep up with her partners in crime (though it took her a few months longer). Alice started school at 5 years old and graduated at 23. In the 70s when Alice attended school, the techniques were not as developed as they are now, so she was never taught to read and write or to recognize numbers and values. After she finished school, Alice stayed home, growing inseparable from Mom. In 2006, Dad passed away and in 2009, Mom followed, leaving Alice devastated. She moved in with me, her closest sister, and my husband, Juan. Our children were already grown and moved away, so it was a tremendous change to have Alice live with us. In order to help Alice begin to move forward, the family decided to celebrate her next birthday by giving her a long overdue quinceañera at the age of 45. She wore a beautiful gown and tiara, had a dinner in her honor, celebrated with her favorite double chocolate cake with strawberries, and danced the night away. Eventually we found Mission Road Developmental Center where Alice spends her days, but we knew she needed friends. Juan discovered the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas where Alice has had many opportunities for socializing with her peers.

Since learning of DSASTX two years ago, Alice has been to her first prom, attended the 2011 National Down Syndrome Congress Convention held in San Antonio, attended the Buddy Walk where she won the most online donations, and has enjoyed many of DSASTX’s other activities. Most importantly, Alice has come out of her depression with the help of the DSASTX social programs. Alice is now very happy, loves to dance and imagines every day is her birthday. We are so glad to be members of the DSASTX because Alice truly appreciates participating in the activities. Thanks again DSASTX for helping Alice become a happier individual!

Volunteer Highlight MENDY ROBERTS By Terri Mauldin

I knew after Kylee was born in 2004 that I wanted to volunteer my time with the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas. When Kylee was 2, her health had become much more stable and the time was right. I started out as the Director of the Outreach Program. I enjoyed meeting all the new families and especially the babies! I worked in this capacity for 3 years and then transitioned over as the host for the monthly Northside Parent Support Group meetings. I loved meeting Mendy Roberts and talking with the new families, giving them the support and information they would need for their journey in raising a child with Down syndrome. I recently left that position and now volunteer my time with the Kid Connection program and wherever else my help is needed. In addition to Kylee, my husband George and I have two other great kids. Allison is 19 and attends San Antonio Community College and Scott is 17 and will be a junior at Madison High School. Kylee, now 8, will be in 3rd grade at Northern Hills Elementary. I feel truly blessed that I am able to help so many other families and hope to continue volunteering with the DSASTX for many years to come. – by Mendy Roberts The DSASTX has relied on Mendy’s help on numerous occasions. As the past Outreach Director, she did a great job getting in touch with new parents and making sure they had the information they needed. In that capacity, she was our first call when a new parent contacted us with a prenatal diagnosis, and she always made herself available for parents when they need someone to talk to. While she is no longer the Outreach Director, she never hesitates to step up and help with situations when we ask, even while taking care of her own family and working a full-time job. She is one of the most reliable parent hosts we have, consistently arriving on time and prepared. The DSASTX appreciates outstanding volunteers like Mendy to help make our events successful.

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Working for You By Leah Chapa My purpose is to be, in my action, just and constitutional; and yet practical, in performing the important duty, with which I am charged, of maintaining the unity, and the free principles of our common country. – Abraham Lincoln Public service. If you're creative, it's a noun, verb, and an adjective. It seemed curious to me, with degrees Representative Joaquin from Stanford and Harvard, that a Castro young man would aspire to a profession that offers so little monetary incentives, especially with today's focus on personal wealth. You don't have to look far past his upbringing to determine Representative Joaquin Castro's motivation. Representative Castro grew up in a home where politics and public service was the norm.His father was a schoolteacher while his mother was a renowned community activist, working in the city personnel office. It was their diligence and perseverance that served as role models for a dedicated Castro, who took notice that he and his brother were the only Stanford University students with San Antonio roots. (n.) – a service that is performed for the benefit of the public or its institutions – (Webster online dictionary) With his experience working in the inner city, coupled with his keen observational acuity, it wasn't a question of whether or not he would return to San Antonio – it was when and in what capacity. In deciding his career path, Representative Castro had an array of choices. But he elected to look past worldly ideas of success and focus on the needs of the people through public office, impacting big issues like health care, the environment and higher education so that future generations can dream past their circumstances and into the same America of opportunities. (v.) – the act of serving the public – (Leah's unabridged dictionary) Elected in 2002 representing District 125, it was time to roll up his sleeves and get busy. And busy he was!!! It is unfortunate that 25% of students have to take remedial classes when they enter post-secondary education; simply stated, they are not prepared for the demands. The National College Advising Corps is one of several initiatives supported by the Representative. NCAC places recent college graduates in lowperforming schools, to create a new culture through helping 8

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students understand their options beyond high school. In conjunction, and equally important, is his focus on raising the criteria for public school counselors to a new standard, by ensuring that they are appropriately qualified for their specific areas. He also began the Trail Blazers College Tour, so that underprivileged students can have the opportunity for exposure to higher education and experience Stanford University as an option rather than an unrealistic dream. (adj.) – expressing the attribute of service – (again, Leah's unabridged, dictionary) One of the characteristics of a great public servant is one who is able to recognize a need, educate themselves about the shortfalls, and then take action to improve the conditions. Representative Castro is involved in House Bill 2933, which seeks to provide insurance coverage for children with mental illness. When questioned about his personal involvement with people with Down syndrome, the Representative seemed humbled in admitting that his experience was limited. I dare to argue. HB2933 shows that, though he may not have been intimately connected with our children, he has expressed an attribute of service that is honorable and greatly appreciated by many families in Texas. Continuing with the interview, there was a long, inquisitive pause: "I'm curious," said Representative Castro, showing genuine concern. "My neighbor is a woman near 70 years old, and her daughter, her only child who also has Down syndrome, is near 50. What will happen to the daughter if the mother is no longer able to care for her?" It was tempting to inundate Representative Castro for the next several days with statistics, data and testimonials of potentially unfavorable outcomes for our adult children; however, it wasn't necessary. After Terri Mauldin, Executive Director of DSASTX, shared the story of her now adult daughter, Stephanie, who also has Down syndrome, the Representative was eager to offer any assistance in helping to ensure that our adults have a better, more fulfilling future. I was very impressed with Representative Castro. He was eager to focus on issues, recognize the need for voter mobilization and careful not to make it about political affiliation. And with so many issues facing Texas, we can't afford to make this an 'aisle' debate. Teen pregnancy, job distribution, health insurance parity, being key issues in Texas, there is no time to pause for politics. We salute Representative Castro for his efforts and look forward to continued collaboration! Please take the time to write him a note to thank him for his PUBLIC SERVICE. Representative Joaquin Castro, 1001 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78215. 210-684-6896.

www.dsastx.org

Special Events FUN RUN RALLY: Thank you to everyone who came out to the Fun Run Rally on April 14th and thank you to Caliente Harley Davidson for hosting the event! We also want to thank those who donated prizes for the raffle: Olive Garden The Wash Tub Rockin’ R River Rides James Avery Cycle Gear Alamo Cycle Plex Big Bob’s Burgers Sea World Discount Tire Crockett Hotel

The 9th Annual Audrey’s Day at the Beach on June 9th was a blast! The day included kayaking, cane pole fishing and playing in the water at the Rockport Beach Park. Thank you to the Shockley family for your hospitality in hosting this fun family event!

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 ourselves a “support group” even though we do, in many ways, support each other. The cornerstone of D.A.D.S. groups is the bi-monthly meeting where members come together to share insights and experiences. The DSASTX D.A.D.S. group meets bi-monthly on the 1st Thursday of the month. The location of the meeting might change so be on the lookout for mailings and emails with details for each event. We hope you get involved with this amazing group! SATURDAY, AUGUST 4 – Dad and Me Fishing with Texas Parks and Wildlife. 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. This trip is limited to one dad and one child with Down syndrome per family – no siblings, please! Please RSVP by July 20th as space is limited. Call 210-349-4372 or email swestrum@dsastx.org for more information or to RSVP. THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 – DSASTX office upstairs, 7p.m. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 – Buddy Walk THURDSAY, NOVEMBER 1 – DSASTX office upstairs, 7p.m.

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Keeping Up With Downs DSASTX FAMILY SPLASHTOWN DAY

NATIONAL PLAN TO ADDRESS ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE May 15, 2012 was an important day for the Down syndrome community and for those who have loved ones suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. On that day, the NIH announced the first-ever National Alzheimer’s Plan. This plan encompasses initiatives for research, care, and support as well as enhancing public awareness and engagement, and includes Down syndrome within the proposed initiatives. The plan also calls for updating its priorities and milestones annually to make sure research stays focused on the most important and productive advances and strategies. The NIH also announced funding of two major new clinical trials to test potential therapies for Alzheimer’s disease. The plan increases the potential for meaningful progress against Alzheimer’s disease overall, with special relevance for people with Down syndrome, who develop the characteristic neuropathology associated with Alzheimer’s in their 40s, earlier than the general population. Further, the unique contributions of people with Down syndrome to this effort can be significant for all of us, says Dr. Michael Harpold, DSRTF Chief Scientific Officer and Chair, Scientific Advisory Board, who participated in the Alzheimer’s Research Summit. “It’s critical to include Down syndrome in the basic and clinical research initiatives for Alzheimer’s disease,” he says. “Research that takes into account the association between Down syndrome and Alzheimer’s disease offers an important opportunity to accelerate research and development towards effective new Alzheimer’s disease therapies for everyone.” The plan includes 5 goals to achieve the vision of eliminating the burden of Alzheimer’s disease: 1. P revent and Effectively Treat Alzheimer’s Disease by 2025 – involves expanding research and clinical trials and incorporating the findings into practice. 2. O ptimize Care Quality and Efficiency through education, training, and the development of measurements and guidelines. 3. E xpand Supports for People with Alzheimer’s Disease and Their Families 4. Enhance Public Awareness and Engagement 5. Track Progress and Drive Improvement At DSRTF, identifying and supporting new research on Alzheimer’s disease as it relates to Down syndrome is an essential part of their mission. They’re committed to staying engaged in development and implementation of the new national plan; through their participation they will continue to emphasize the importance of including Down syndrome in public and private research collaborations. Information in this article was obtained from the Down Syndrome Research and Treatment Foundation website

DSA

Families must arrive by 11:00 a.m. so group tickets may be purchased. No exceptions! DSASTX provides free admission for individuals with Down syndrome (ages 0-12) and their siblings OR free admission for teens and adults with Down syndrome (ages 13 and up) and one friend with special needs. All other tickets for parents, other family members, friends and guests will be charged the group rate admission. You MUST RSVP to 210-349-4372 or swestrum@dsastx.org no later than Monday, August 20th. Splashtown is located at 3600 IH 35 North, San Antonio, TX 78219. Don’t forget your towel and sunscreen!

SAVE THE DATE! DSASTX ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARTY

Tuesday, December 18th – La Villita Assembly Hall. 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

www.dsastx.org

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. Alfred Gerloff AT&T United Way Employee Giving Campaign Aubrey Steffen Barbara Spinner Camelia Elliott Capital City Maintenance and Waterproofing Carolyn Richards Center for Maternal-Fetal Care Christopher Weaver Citigroup (via Truist)www Conrad Housler Edward Leos HDR, Inc. Irvin Anderson John Gillis Lisa Drozdick Marie Cassidy Nelson Sleeper P.E.C. United Charities, Inc. Raul Chapa Rebecca Schmitt Richard Glancey Ruth Sparks Stephen Ramseur Tammy Johnson Thomas Murray Thomas Walton United Health Group - Employee Giving Campaign William Barnes

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 Angie Cronin 210-349-4372 • acronin@dsastx.org

SPECIAL EVENTS COORDINATOR Suzanne Westrum 210-349-4372 • swestrum@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 – 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 JULY 28 DSASTX Family Swim Day at the ARC: Pam Stephens Center, 6530 Wurzbach Road, San Antonio, TX 78240, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. AUGUST 4 D.A.D.S.: Dad and me fishing with the Texas Parks and Wildlife, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. 7 San Antonio Northside PSG: Buddy Walk Kick Off! Coker UMC, 231 E. North Loop Rd., Gibbs 1108, 6–8 p.m. 14 Boerne PSG: Therapeutic Yoga, St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, 202 W. Kronkosky St., Boerne, Room #148 FLC, 6–8 p.m. 16 New Braunfels PSG: Behavior Strategies, Gruene UMC, 2629 E. Common St., 6–7:30 p.m. 21 San Antonio Southside PSG: Therapeutic Horseback Riding, De Paul Family Center, 7607 Somerset Road, 6–7:30 p.m. 25 DSASTX Family Day at Splashtown: 11 a.m., 3600 IH 35 North, San Antonio, TX 78219 SEPTEMBER 5,12,19 – Playgroup Kindermusik: Music Arts Center Northwest, 12732 Cimarron Path Ste. 100, 10–11 a.m. 6 D.A.D.S.: Meeting at the DSASTX Office, 2800 NW Loop 410, 7 p.m. 22 PreWalk Tshirt Pickup for Buddy Walk: DSASTX Office, 2800 NW Loop 410, 9 a.m.–12 noon. 29 Buddy Walk: Heroes Stadium, 4799 Thousand Oaks Dr., 78233, 7 a.m. OCTOBER 2 San Antonio Northside PSG: Special Needs Trusts, Coker UMC, 231 E. North Loop Rd. Gibbs 1108, 6–8 p.m.

OCTOBER 3,10,17,24,31 – Playgroup Kindermusik: Music Arts Center Northwest, 12732 Cimarron Path Ste. 100, 10–11 a.m. 9 Boerne PSG: Special Needs Trusts, St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, 202 W. Kronkosky St., Boerne, Room #148 FLC, 6–8 p.m. 13 Kid Connection: Funtastic Playland, 7142 San Pedro, 10–11:30 a.m. 16 San Antonio Southside PSG: Special Needs Trusts, De Paul Family Center, 7607 Somerset Road, 6–7:30 p.m. 18 New Braunfels PSG: Special Needs Trusts, Gruene UMC, 2629 E. Common St., 6–7:30 p.m. 20 Adult Matters: Miniature Golf, Embassy Golf, 500 Embassy Oaks, 2–4 p.m. 20 Teen Club: Malibu Grand Prix, 3330 Cherry Ridge Dr., 11 a.m.–1 p.m. 27 Hoot ‘n Holler NOVEMBER 1 D.A.D.S.: Meeting at the DSASTX Office, 2800 NW Loop 410, 7 p.m. 6 San Antonio Northside PSG: Potty Training, Coker UMC, 231 E. North Loop Rd. Gibbs 1108, 6–8 p.m. 7,14,28 – Playgroup Kindermusik: Music Arts Center Northwest, 12732 Cimarron Path Ste. 100, 10–11 a.m. 8 Playgroup & Kid Connection: Pizza Party, Incredible Pizza, 11743 West Ave., 6–8 p.m. 9 Teen Club & Adult Matters: Pizza Party, 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: 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.

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