Down Syndrome Association of San Antonio • 2800 NW Loop 410 • San Antonio, TX 78230 • 210-349-4372➡Volume 13, Issue 4

OCTOBER 2011

Executive Director ..............1

HUGS ..................................1

Buddy Walk ........................2

2012 DSA Calendar ............3

Holiday Party ......................4

Acheiver Award....................4

Meet the Board....................4

Teen Club ............................5

Meet Drew ..........................5

Support Groups ..................6

Kid Connection ..................6

Playgroup ............................7

Adult Matters! ....................7

Educational..........................8

Government Affairs ............9

Contributions....................10

Outreach ............................10

D.A.D.S. ............................11

Who We Are ......................11

Calendar of Events ............12

What’sinside...

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Once again, the Buddy Walk on September24th was a huge success! It is hard to believethat this was our 11th year! We had over 4,500participants join us at Heroes Stadium as wecelebrated the lives of those we love withDown syndrome with a lot of enthusiasm, joy,and style! Thank you to all the volunteers,donors, families, and the DSASA staff formaking the Buddy Walk so successful. Pleasetake a minute to read all about the great eventwithin this newsletter. Next year’s Buddy Walkwill be on Saturday, September 29th, so markyour calendars!

During the next several months, we havequite a number of things going on for theDown syndrome community, as well as theDSASA. Our monthly social activitiescontinue to bring lots of children and adultstogether, along with their families. Pleasewatch your emails and mailboxes forreminders of upcoming events and be sureand call or email the DSASA office to RSVPfor all our events. For Playgroup and KidConnection participants, we will pay theevent fees for the child with Down syndromeand their siblings (under 18 years of age). ForTeen Club and Adult Matters, we will pay theevent fee for the teen or adult with Downsyndrome and a special needs age appropriateguest (no siblings).

Please help me welcome another addition tothe DSASA staff! Hilda Tovar has been hiredas the Adult Continuing Education (ACE)Program Director. This program is soimportant to our adults in continuing theimprovement of their academic skills. Hildawill do student assessments and lesson plansfor the weekly sessions, as well as train thevolunteers that have graciously committed tobe tutors each week. Hilda brings lots ofspecial education experience as a retiredteacher from Edgewood ISD. So, we now havefive employees at the DSASA!

Please plan to join us onTuesday, December 20th forthe annual DSASA HolidayParty at La Villita AssemblyHall. We will have food,drinks, music, visits withSanta, and raffle prizes. One change this yearwill be that the child with Down syndromeand their immediate family (parents andsiblings) will be free. All extended familymembers and friends will be $5 in advance. Besure to check out the details in this newsletterand mark your calendar!

Have you ever considered making a donationto the Down Syndrome Association? If so,consider participating in the H.U.G.S. (HelpUs Give Support) program. It’s an easyprogram that allows you to give a monthlydonation directly from a credit card orchecking account. No more writing checksand mailing the donation! Just go to ourwebsite www.dsasa.org and click on the HUGSlogo on the home page carousel. It just takes afew minutes to complete the form and you areall set up! Thank you for your support!

The DSASA’s HUGS program is an easy way todonate through automatic monthly installmentsvia all major credit cards or checking accounts.The minimum amount can be as low as $5 permonth ($60/year). Every donation helps supportall of the DSASA programs. Visit the DSASAwebsite and click on the HUGS link to startyour monthly giving today!

Terri Mauldin

KEEPING UP WITHDownsDownsMessage from Terri Mauldin ...

Help Us Give Support

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Once again, the Buddy Walk was aTREMENDOUS success!We had over 45,00 participants come walk ona beautiful sunny day! Because of you, thefamilies and friends of children and adultswith Down syndrome, we raised over $130,000 for the DownSyndrome Association of San Antonio and the National DownSyndrome Society. This money will go to help support the manyprograms and services that are provided by the DSA and assist theNDSS in their research, advocacy, and education initiatives.

This event would not be possible without the hard work anddedication of the Buddy Walk committee. We also require a largenumber of volunteers at the walk to make it a success. So, THANKYOU, to all the committee members and volunteers.

We would like to congratulate the participants that were thewinners of some awesome prizes! Briana’s Best Buddies (BrianaTroy), Hayden Bexar’s Buddies (Hayden Torres), and Claire’sCompadres (Claire Schorsch) were the winners of a VIP Canopy,a goody basket and a team banner for being the top teamfundraisers. Briana Troy was the top fundraiser and won a2-night stay at the Westin La Cantera Resort; Gabriel Hey was the2nd place fundraiser and won a year membership to Wash Tub;and Amber Schorsch was the 3rd place fundraiser and receivedthe registration fee for the 2012 National Down SyndromeCongress Convention to be held in Washington D.C.! We also hada contest to see who raised the most money online the week beforeBuddy Walk, and the winner of the four free passes to Morgan’sWonderland was Alice Soto!

This was our second year to be at Heroes Stadium and it was awonderful venue with its wide expanse of space. Thank you to Mr.Irl Kincaid from the North East Independent School Districtfor allowing us to use the facility. We can’t wait to be at HeroesStadium again next year!

A special thank you goes to Jack Riccardi, KTSA RadioPersonality, for serving as our Master of Ceremonies once again.Jack is a strong supporter of the DSASA, and we look forward tohaving him help us every year! We were extremely honored tohave the Kennedy Family serve as our Honorary Buddies. Thankyou, Shaun, Debbie and Katie for all you do for the DSASA! Wewould also like to thank Bruce Bowen; Bexar CountyCommissioner Tommy Adkisson; the Silver Fox and the HEBBuddy for coming to the walk and showing their support.

The Buddy Walk would not be the same without the JohnsonHigh School JROTC Color Guard presenting the colors, includingour very own Billy Cade, Jr., who held the Texas Flag during thepresentation. Thank you to Rebecca Greebon for singing theNational Anthem. Then, of course, we loved having Cat Paws andtroop warm all of us up for the walk with their incredibleenthusiasm and songs. After the opening ceremonies, the

Kennedys, Bruce Bowen, the Silver Fox, and the HEB Buddy withthe help of the Johnson High School cheer team started theone-mile walk around Heroes Stadium.

After the walk, the participants enjoyed a wide array of festivities.There were moon bounces, face painting, arts and crafts,basketball hoops, banner making and, of course, the train rideprovided by Big Blue Choo Choo. The wonderful sound of greatdance music was provided by DJ, Richard Hughes, from BabyHuey’s.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the followingexhibitors who displayed their services to the special needscommunity: 101 Advocacy, A Plus Pediatrics Rehabilitation,Ageless Living Home Health, All State Insurance - Jim BorenAgency, Any Baby Can, ARC of San Antonio, Auburn Dental,Autism Network, Bandera Dental Care, CAMP CAMP, Circle ofCare, Eva’s Heroes, Inspiration 4 Life/Radio San Antonio, MiraclesHappen Inc., Monarch Academy, Morgan’s Wonderland, PCIEducation, Pediatric Rehabilitation & Behavioral Services,Premient, Progressive Life, R & K Specialized Homes, ReachingMaximum Independence, Reece’s Rainbow, Speech and LanguageCenter at Stone Oak, Spurs Sports & Entertainment, Team CareRehab, Therapy 2000, and Texas Lions Club.

We had a record number of Corporate Sponsorships this yearfrom the community. Thank you to all the following sponsors:

GREAT BUDDY ($10,000)AvnetValeroHEB Tournament of Champions

BIG BUDDY ($5,000)Gordon Hartman Family FoundationRoyal Management

Special Buddy ($2,500)North Park LexusC.H. Guenther & SonsThe Speech and Language Center at Stone OakPCI EducationBroadway BankSan Antonio Express News

COOL BUDDY ($1,000)Progressive LifeDeerfield Animal HospitalCavender AudiAll State, Jim Boren AgencyClear Vision, Inc.Institute for Women’s HealthTherapy 2000Amegy Bank of TexasPremient

BUDDIES (UNDER $1,000)Padgett Stratemann & Co., LLCPenske Truck RentalAbsolute RentalsBaby Huey’s DJ & Sound System

Buddy Walk 2011

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Holt CatBig Blue Choo ChooParties, Picnics and PromotionsOtis SpunkmeyerSimply WeSideAFectsAmerican Medical ResponseThe Westin La CanteraWash TubAllegra PrintingNorth East ISDCustom Food GroupBalloon ProductionsMylestones Pediatric TherapyLaw Offices of Ed GoldnerSerrano Video ProductionsCentury Music SystemTony and Cindy Deavers

______ 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:

Quantity

Down Syndrome Association of San Antonio2800 NW Loop 410, San Antonio, TX 782130

Credit card orders can be placed online in our new DSASA Storeor by phone to the DSASA office 210-349-4372

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2012 DSASA Calendar Order Form

2012 DSASA Calendars available for sale!

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Please join us for the annualDSASA Holiday PartyTuesday, December 20

5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

La Villita Assembly Building (main floor)401 Villita, San Antonio, TX 78205

FREE parking will be provided with a parking ticket which is available at theDSASA office. We have planned a wonderful evening including a barbeque

meal. Santa will be there to hear what’s on your holiday wish list. Our incredibleDJ will be there, as well, so make sure to wear your dancing shoes.

The Holiday Party is FREE for people with Down syndrome and immediatefamily (i.e. parents and siblings only). All extended family members and

friends are welcome for a $5 admission.

Please RSVP on or before December 9thwith the number of adults and children that will be attending

to the DSASA office at 210-349-4372 orsanderson@dsasa.org. We appreciate your timely RSVP, as wemust confirm the number of meals being catered. You must

make arrangements to pick up or request us to mail yourparking ticket and meal tickets

prior to Wednesday, December 14th.

We hope to see you there!

Achiever AwardBILLY CADE RECEIVES ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR AWARD!The Arc of San Antoniorecognized the accomplishmentof people with developmentaldisabilities in our community atthe Achiever of the Year AwardsBanquet on Wednesday, October12th at Morgan’s Wonderland.Billy Cade was nominated by theDown Syndrome Association ofSan Antonio as their Achiever ofthe Year! Billy attends JohnsonHigh School and participates inthe JROTC program. Billy did sowell as a freshman last year thathe was promoted to Private FirstClass and to the color guard thisyear as a sophomore. Billy lovesto play soccer and has played onthe NEYSO Special Teams for the past 11 years. He also enjoysmusic, sports, playing Wii games and being with his family. Onbehalf of the DSASA and The Arc of San Antonio, we congratulateBilly on his award!

EDWARD LEOSEdward Leos is aSan Antonio nativeand is the oldest ofthree boys. He hasbeen an avidbaseball playersince he was 5years old, and evenpitched a 1-hitterin the city All-Stargame when he was13! His favoriteplayer is Derek Jeterand the NY Yankees.

Edward owns Destination Marketing Group and The Hotel Guide,a nationally-distributed digital travel magazine direct e-mailed to6 million travelers yearly (www.thehotelguide.com).

He joined the DSASA in June of 2011 and serves on theDevelopment Committee. Even before Edward joined the Board,he made significant contributions on both the marketing side ofthe DSASA and on the Development Committee with his wealthof experience and great ideas!

Meet the Board

Billy Cade

Edward Leos and Family(Photo by Christina Klahn with

Twinflower Photography (Michael's sister).

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Meet DrewDrew Boynton is 17years old and a senior atAlamo Heights HighSchool, where he hasbeen in the specialeducation programsince the age of three.Drew enjoys watchingmusicals, playing Wiiand listening to his CDs.He also loves horsebackriding, which he does once a week. Drew has a great sense ofhumor and makes people smile.

Drew was nominated for Homecoming King this year by theentire student body and won. The experience has beenoverwhelming and wonderful. As parents, we were so proud ofDrew and the community! The student body didn't focus onDrew's disabilities, but on him as a person. The students embracedDrew and were so happy for him. He definitely got the rock startreatment around school that week! Drew has appreciated beingking, as you can see from the pictures; he truly is overjoyed andhappy. He wore the crown with pride every day for a week!

King Drew! Who would have thought this would be the case yearsago. In kindergarten Drew started exhibiting some behaviors thatneeded addressing. I always called Drew "street smart” whichmeant that he understood everything around him, but it took awonderful behavior specialist at Cambridge to work with Drewand our family to get his behaviors under control. Fifth grade wasa better year and every year after that improved. Having abackground in special education, I felt there was something elsegoing on with Drew around seventh grade. When we got to highschool, the teacher really listened, and Drew was diagnosed withAutism his freshman year. That was almost a relief for us to knowwhy he did the things he did. That helped us understand the pastand what we needed to do for the future.

The peer tutor program at Alamo Heights made a difference forDrew. He loves being around the same age students and that is his"social time". The peer tutor program starts in 6th grade, so hispeers truly have gotten to know Drew over the past seven years.They have received as much from Drew as he has from them.Being a senior parent, this is the part of school that we will miss.Having friends like this has been such a blessing!

This Homecoming experience shows how effective this program isin high school. As a parent of a graduating senior, I feel that Drewis truly part of the community. When Drew won king, he keptrepeating "We did it!” He understood that Alamo Heights did doit, and we are all winners in this!

Debbi Chesney wrote a beautiful blog that really captures themoment. Go tohttp://alamoheightsunitedmethodistchurch.blogspot.com, andthen scroll to Wednesday, September 21 - We did it!!

Edward is married to Jennifer and they have three children,Garrett (age 14), Kendall (8), and Lauren (6). Their family loves tospend time together and stay fit. Edward is a marathon runner –watch for him at the upcoming Rock and Roll Marathon in SanAntonio. Their favorite pastimes are to go to the gym, go on walks,and cook creatively. In fact, Kendall and Lauren attended theYoung Chef ’s Academy and took a course on cooking withchocolate!

Edward’s connection with Down syndrome is through hisyoungest cousin, Michael (31), who has DS. Michael is theyoungest of 14 grandchildren and also the heart of their family.Michael inspired many in his family and moved Edward to giveback to an organization that he knew nothing about until Michaelwas born.

Edward has lofty goals for this organization. His belief is that wecan double our outreach and funding within the next 3-5 years.The DSASA is a hidden gem right now, and Edward believes ourleadership can help the rest of the area see exactly what theDSASA can do.

We look forward to helping Edward reach these goals!

Drew Boynton

Teen ClubThe Teen Club is open to all teens with any disability betweenthe ages of 13 and 17. The goal of the Teen Club is to fosterfriendships, stimulate socialization, and increase positive selfesteem. Chaperones will be in attendance at each event. The costof Teen Club events will be covered by the DSASA for the teen andone special needs, age-appropriate friend. Please RSVP for eachevent to Stephanie Anderson at sanderson@dsasa.org or210-349-4372.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12 – NATURE HIKING10:30 a.m. Join the UTSA Geological Society at FriedrichWilderness Park, 21395 Milsa Road, San Antonio 78256.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20 – DSASA HOLIDAY PARTYPlease see page 4 for more information.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 7, 2012 – BOWLING3 p.m. Brunswick Thousand Oaks, 4330 Thousand Oaks Blvd.,San Antonio 78217.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2012 – TEEN KARAOKE PARTY6 - 8 p.m., Pam Stephens Center, 6530 Wurzbach,San Antonio 78240.

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Support GroupsOur monthly meetings of the Parent Support Groups aredesigned for parents, grandparents, siblings, and friends ofchildren with Down syndrome.

SAN ANTONIO SOUTHSIDE PARENT SUPPORT GROUPDe Paul Family Center7607 Somerset Road, San Antonio, TX 78211Third Tuesday of each month from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Childcare isavailable with a required RSVP to the DSASA office at 210-349-4372or downsynassc@dsasa.org. We look forward to seeing you there!

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15Topic: Kinetic KidsSpeaker: Tracey Fontenot

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 13Topic: Sleep ApneaSpeaker: Doctors from Academy of Sleep Diagnostics

TUESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2012Topic: Dreams Fulfilled Through MusicSpeaker: Mary Kathryn Archuleta

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2012Topic: Parent Alliance for Learning and Support (P.A.L.S.)Training #1Speaker: Brighton Center

SAN ANTONIO NORTHSIDE PARENT SUPPORT GROUPCoker United Methodist Church231 E. North Loop Rd., Gibbs Room 1108, San Antonio, TX 78216

First Tuesday of each month from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Parents areencouraged to attend and PLEASE use the childcare for this eventby calling 210-494-3455 x245 at least 48 hours in advance. Pleaseleave a detailed message when making a reservation. Out ofrespect to our speakers, we ask that all children over the age of twobe left in childcare.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 1Topic: Nutrition Relating to Down SyndromeSpeaker: San Antonio Food Bank, Sarah Koontz, R.D.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 6 Topic: Kinetic KidsSpeaker: Tracey Fontenot

TUESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2012 Topic: Open Forum

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2012Topic: What Happens After High School?Speaker: The Arc of San Antonio

NEW BRAUNFELS PARENT SUPPORT GROUP The Down Syndrome Association’s New Braunfels Branch servesfamilies in Comal and Guadalupe counties.Gruene United Methodist Church2629 E. Common St., New Braunfels, TX 78130

Third Thursday of each month from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Childcare isavailable with an RSVP to 210-349-4372.

Other News: Every third Saturday, The ARC in New Braunfelsholds a dance for all children with special needs. Please call GloriaPinal at 830-609-9363 for more details.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17 Topic: Therapeutic Horseback Riding, Hollow Tree RanchSpeaker: Lauren and Jeff

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10 Topic: New Braunfels Branch Playdate – All Ages Welcome!Location: McKenna Children’s Museum, 801 W San Antonio St.,New Braunfels 78130; 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 19, 2012Topic: Parent Alliance for Learning and Support (P.A.L.S.)Training #1Speaker: Brighton Center

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2012Topic: P.A.L.S Training #2Speaker: Brighton Center

Kid ConnectionThe Down Syndrome Association Kid Connection is ourgathering designed for family social activities. We welcome allchildren with special needs and their families! Our events arespecifically designed for ages 4 - 12. The DSASA will pay theadmission for the individual with Down syndrome and theirsiblings. Parents are responsible for their own admission. Adiscounted rate will be offered when possible. Please RSVP foreach event to Stephanie Anderson at sanderson@dsasa.org or210-349-4372.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12 – INSPIRE ART10:30 a.m. We’ll create Thanksgiving placemats! Inspire Fine ArtCenter, 200 Queen Anne Court, San Antonio 78209.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20 – DSASA HOLIDAY PARTYPlease see page 4 for more information.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 21, 2012 – CLAY CASA10 a.m., 502 Embassy Oaks #107, San Antonio 78216.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2012 – FUNTASTIC PLAYLAND10 a.m., 7142 San Pedro #112, San Antonio 78216.

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PlaygroupThe Down Syndrome Association Playgroup is a playtime forchildren ages 0-3 and their parents. The DSASA will pay forentry fees to these activities (if applicable) for the child withDown syndrome and their siblings. Please RSVP for each eventto Stephanie Anderson at sanderson@dsasa.org or 210-349-4372.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th -KINDERMUSIK11- 11:45 a.m., Music Arts Center Northwest (IH 10 & De Zavala),12732 Cimarron Path, Ste. 100, 78249. Please RSVP if you areplanning to attend since materials are needed for each lesson.

AnimalsA-Dancing – Inclass, your child’smemory andsequence skillswill strengthenwith stop-and-gogames tuckedinto stories and pretend play about animals on a farm. You’ll findthese stories and songs in your Home Kit, too. So when you playthis month’s featured rhythm stick instruments along with therecordings, you help your child develop rhythm, coordination, andthe confidence that comes with learning and playing along with you.

Home Kit: Pair of Rhythm Sticks, Home CD, and magazine-styleFamily Guide (includes the class story Cows in the Kitchen)

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20 – DSASA HOLIDAY PARTYPlease see page 4 for more information.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 14, 2012 – FUNTASTIC PLAYLAND10 a.m., 7142 San Pedro #112, San Antonio 78216.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2012 – THE LITTLE GYM10 a.m. 20711 Wilderness Oak, Suite 106, San Antonio 78258.

Adult Matters!Adult Matters! is a social program specifically designed for ouradults with DS ages 18 and older. The focus is on providing anenvironment to help them further develop their social skills, buildfriendships among other adults with DS, and offer them safe andappropriate interactions within the community. In order to fosterthat environment, we encourage them to invite an age-appropriatepeer (another adult with special needs) to participate with them.DSASA will pay the participation fee for both of them. We realizethat our adults depend on family and friends for transportation toand from these activities, so we will always try to plan activitiesthat offer a place where parents/guardians can gather nearby(restaurant, coffee shop, etc.) and visit with each other during theevent. Please RSVP for each event to Stephanie Anderson atsanderson@dsasa.org or210-349-4372.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12 – NATURE HIKING10:30 a.m. Join the UTSA Geological Society at FriedrichWilderness Park, 21395 Milsa Road, San Antonio 78256.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20 – DSASA HOLIDAY PARTYPlease see page 4 for more information

SATURDAY, JANUARY 14, 2012 – MY FIT FOODSNUTRITION11 a.m. DSASA Office Upstairs, 2800 NW Loop 410,San Antonio 78230.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2012 – BOWLING2 p.m., Brunswick Thousand Oaks, 4330 Thousand Oaks Blvd.,San Antonio 78217.

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EducationalARC OF SAN ANTONIO – EDUCATION SEMINARS

Transition to Adult Health CarePresented by Jeanine Pinner,Parent to Parent CoordinatorSaturday, October 1, 20119 a.m. – 11 a.m.

This presentation includesinformation and support to aid in asuccessful health care transition for young self-advocates: web-based resources/workbooks, public and private health insurance,health insurance risk pool, Texas insurance law, resources,Medicaid Buy-In, and more. Come prepared to begin working onyour own health care transition plan for yourself or a loved one.

Funding Programs: What Agencies Provide Support?Saturday, November 19, 2011 • 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

A panel discussion/overview of local programs that providefunding. Representatives will be present from Social Security,DARS (Dept. of Assistive & Rehabilitative Services) and AACOG(Alamo Area Council of Governments).

The Basics of Texas Medicaid Waiver ProgramsSaturday, January 14, 2012 • 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Representatives from the CLASS, MDCP and HCS WaiverPrograms will present an overview of Medicaid Waiver programs –what they are and how they can help—followed by a question andanswer session.

Guardianship and Special Needs TrustsPresented by Anna Torres, AttorneySaturday, March 24, 2012 • 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Participants will learn about special needs trusts including howbeneficiaries can maintain money or property and avoid losingaccess to essential long-term benefits. Differences betweenguardianship and power of attorney will also be discussed.

Day to Day Life After School: An OverviewSaturday, April 14, 2012 • 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Information will be available on a wide range of residential, dayprogram and leisure options for individuals once they graduate orage out of the school system.

★ Childcare option: Respite Care of San Antonio offers Family DayOut at the PSC on Saturdays, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. You MUST beregistered with Respite to utilize this service. Contact Oralia Waldronat 210-737-1212 ext. 15.

TAPPESTRY CONFERENCE 2012 –“PLANTING THE SEEDS ... FOR A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITY”

Saturday, February 25, 2012TAPPestry brings togetherparents and professionalsworking with children withspecial needs for a day ofshared wisdom, ideas,strategies, and resources to strengthen the needed partnerships forchildren’s success.

This year’s keynote speaker is Micah Fialka-Feldman. MicahFialka-Feldman, 27, recently completed the OPTIONS program atOakland University in Michigan. He is part of the new wave ofadults with intellectual disabilities attending college. Micah enjoyspresenting at conferences on advocacy, post secondary education,and self determination, and his experiences learning and living ona university campus. To learn more about Micah, visit his websitewww.throughthesamedoor.com.

Breakout Sessions will include: Bullying • Facilitated IEPs • SocialSkills Training • Challenging Behavior • ARD 101 • Joint Attention• Tools for ARD Meetings • Sexuality • Dyslexia • Guardianship •Autism • Using Technology • Positive Parent/Teacher/StudentCommunication • Post-Secondary Options • Transition •Maximizing YOUR Child’s Potential • Feeding Difficulties

Pre-registration Deadline: February 17, 2012 - Registrationsreceived after this date will be accepted on a walk-in, as space isavailable basis. Please Note: No children will be allowed in theconference center. To register, contact Lori Williams at210-370-5466 or by email at lori.williams@esc20.net.

19TH ANNUAL INCLUSION WORKS! CONFERENCEFrom Disability toPossibility...The Renaissance Hotel9721 Arboretum Blvd.Austin, TexasFebruary 1 - 4, 2012

The Arc of Texas’ Inclusion Works! Conference is the premierelearning event on inclusive education practices in Texas.

Online Registration available at www.tharcoftexas.org

Master Sessions by: Dr. Patrick Schwarz, author of FromDisability to Possibility - The Power of Inclusive Classrooms.

Dan Habib, film maker and father of Including Samuel fame. Seea sneak preview of Dan Habib’s newest film, EducationRevolution, about the inclusion of students withemotional/behavioral challenges through positive behavioralinterventions and supports.

Additional Sessions: Brain Research, Co-Teaching,Standards-Based IEPs, Positive Behavior Interventions & Supports,Differentiating Instruction and Inclusive Education, InclusivePractices at the Preschool & Secondary Level, R.T.I. (Response toIntervention), Transition, Self-Advocacy and MUCH MORE!

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Government AffairsThe DSASA Government Affairs Committee (“DSASA GAC”)encourages you to take action NOW on public policy issuesimpacting the Down syndrome community of San Antonio.Legislation impacts us at the local, state and national levels, andyour voice is your biggest asset when influencing positive andproductive change. DSASA GAC has been instrumental in unitingthe affiliates in the state to ensure that we have one voice and onemission ... enriching lives. You play a critical role in influencingchange. Contact DSASA today to find out how you can getinvolved!

So, what is on the horizon for those with disabilities within ourstate? Budget cuts.

Texas Education Agency (TEA) - Public education will receive nearly $4 billion less for FY 2012-2013. The majority of those cuts will be personnel-related. What will you see? Fewer educators and larger class sizes. Many pre-kindergarten and special programs will not be fully funded.

Early Childhood - Funding was reduced by more than 50%. This program provides for students in public pre-kindergarten,Head Start, university early childhood programs, or private non-profit early childhood programs where there is an integrated program with a public school.

Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS)

Medicaid Waivers - Appropriations for fiscal year 2012-2013are significantly reduced; however, the legislature expects thenumber of people served in these programs to remain atAugust 2011 levels. DADS is expected to find ways to containcosts through utilization review, caps, and service limitations.Services considered non-essential are reduced to the 90thpercentile in CBA, CLASS, HCS and MDCP waivers. CLASSspecialized therapies are reduced to the 75th percentile.Provider rates were cut from 3% to 26.4% depending on theprogram. Currently, over 130,000 individuals are on interestlists which are expected to continue to grow.

Intellectual Disabilities (ID) Community Services - These “safety net” services were cut significantly. Local authorities use these funds for a wide range of services to support individuals to live in the community while waiting for or ineligible for waiver services. When the legislature cut fundingin 2003, there was a 50% increase in admissions of children into State Supported Living Centers (SSLCs). The legislature’s intent this session was for DADS to refinance manyindividuals into the Texas Home Living waiver program.

In-Home Family Support (IHFS) - The IHFS program islevel funded. IHFS provides support to families who wouldotherwise turn to institutional services.

ID In-Home and Family Support - Funding for IHFSservices for individuals with intellectual disabilities waseliminated.

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS)

Early Childhood Intervention Services (ECI) - ECI providesservices to children with developmental delays that assisteligible children to gain skills or improve development.Funding was reduced by $30 million from FY 2010-2011.DARS is therefore changing from a “months-based” to a“percentage-based” calculation of a developmental delay andrestructuring Family Cost Share. Children will continue toreceive an average of two hours of direct service per month,which is below that recommended by experts.

Medicaid Waiver - Medicaid waiver spending has grownfrom 16 billion in 2004 to 19.6 billion in 2006. Medicaid isoperating on an IOU. The projection is that by the year 2013,all resources for sustaining the program will be exhausted.

For more information about budget adjustments impacting ourcommunity, please visit www.txddc.state.tx.us.

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DSA

ContributionsWe sincerely appreciate the following people who have sogenerously donated to the Down Syndrome Association.Your contributions help us offer a variety of programs forthe members of our organization.

Alfred GerloffAlfred MontalvoAntoinette JamesAubrey SteffenBarbara Jackson in memory of Mary J. MurrayBill Cade - HUGS ProgramCenter for Maternal-Fetal CareChad MoosChristopher Lucas in memory of Mary J. MurrayChristy Anderson - HUGS ProgramCitigroup (via Trust)Conrad HouslerCowden Charitable Foundation TrustDavid KippDebbie Albright - HUGS ProgramDuane SchaferDuggan and Massey in memory of Mary J. MurrayEdward Leos - HUGS ProgramElna JeanesGregory LiskaJackie Eaton in memory of Mary J. MurrayJames Collins - HUGS ProgramJames SnyderJanice Troy - HUGS ProgramKatherine LittleKathy Carrizales - HUGS ProgramKenneth HigbyKimberly RobinsonLarry Rogers - HUGS ProgramLeticia SalvatierraLydia Beach - HUGS ProgramMarcia RobinsonMargie Peak in memory of Mary J. MurrayMaria Hey - HUGS ProgramMarie CassidyMary Ellen Ryan in memory of Mary J. MurrayMary Jane Hardy in memory of Mary J. MurrayMaureen O’Shea in memory of Mary J. MurrayMichelle Pettit - HUGS ProgramNeal Matthews - HUGS ProgramNelson SleeperP.E.C. United Charities, Inc.Pages Printing in memory of Mary J. MurrayPete Aceves - HUGS ProgramPhyllis Van Buskirk in memory of Mary J. MurrayRay Deleon

Richard Glancey - HUGS ProgramRichard WyckoffRoxane GalvanRoxane Galvan in memory of Mary J. MurraySarah Lopez - HUGS ProgramSharon McConnellSt. Mary’s Church - Oak Ridge in memory of Mary J. MurrayStella Carrigan in memory of Mary J. MurraySusan Christensen in memory of Mary J. MurrayTerri Mauldin - HUGS ProgramThomas Murray in memory of Mary J. MurrayThompson Print & Mailing Solutions in memory of Mary J. MurrayTrish LangleyUnited Health Group - Employee Giving CampaignVirginia CrielVirginia DavisVirginia KoehlW. M. Ott in honor of Catherine NivinWilliam J. Smith in memory of Mary J. MurrayZachary Edwards - HUGS Program

OutreachWE WOULD LIKE TO WELCOME OUR NEWEST FAMILIESTO THE DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION FAMILY!If you know someone who has a child or family member withDown syndrome, please let them know about the DSASA and theservices we provide. We’d be happy to reach out to help in any waypossible!

Mary Jane Puente (expecting)

Shaney Best, parents Shannon and Norma Best

Cullen Turner, parents Timothy and Jessica Turner

David Vise, parents Scott and Ginger Vise

James Roberon, Daniel and Heather Crouser

Christopher Solis, grandmother Josephine Sammons

Eli Anthony Chavez-Gallegos, mother Victoria D. Chavez &grandparents Victor and Diana Chavez

Brodie Bowman, grandfather Charles Schroeder &grandparents Tom and Brenda Bowman

Kyle Simmonds, parents William and Kelley Simmonds

Nicholas Burk, parents George and Holly Mc Cauley

Araceli Aguero, mother Diana Aguero

Maria Garza, sister-in-law Adrianna Garza

Berlin Annalee Womble, mother Ashley Barquin &grandparents Christopher and Leticia Reyna

Nicholas G. Garza, parents Israel and Crystal Garza

Julian Ramirez, father Oscar Ramirez

Joseph Ramirez, Jr., mother Priscilla Rendon

Olivia Garza, parents Manny and Dena Garza

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www.dsasa.org

DSA

Who We AreMISSION STATEMENT

The DSASA’s mission is to provide support andservices 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 – VACANT

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

Member at Large – Edward Leos

THE DSA ISON FACEBOOK!

BBeeccoommee oouurr FFrriieenndd aattwww.facebook.com/dsa.sanantonio

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

The 3 foundational pillars of D.A.D.S. are Support, Action andFellowship. You won’t find us in a church basement drinkingwarm coffee and whining about having children with Downsyndrome. Instead, you’ll find us out in the community coachingour kids’ sports teams, participating in our children’s IEPs,volunteering at local Down syndrome fundraising events, andeven sponsoring fundraising events of our own.

The cornerstone of D.A.D.S. groups is the monthly meeting wheremembers come together to share insights and experiences. Face it:there are certain responsibilities that generally fall on theshoulders of the father. Having a child with special needs oftenaffects how we approach those responsibilities.

We invite expert speakers to discuss medical, educational,financial, social, and any other issues that affect our children’slives. And of course, we share stories and experiences that areunique to fathers of children with Down syndrome. Yourcolleagues at the office may not understand your excitement whenyour 5 y old makes “poopie” on the toilet for the first time, butother D.A.D.S. will, because we’ve all been there.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4 - D.A.D.S. MEETING7 p.m., DSASA Office, 2800 NW Loop 410, San Antonio 78230.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20 – DSASA HOLIDAY PARTYPlease see page 4 for more information.

★ Stay tuned for more information on upcoming events for theD.A.D.S. group. To have input on the events, fundraising, and meetingsfor the D.A.D.S. group, please attend the November 4th meeting.

NONPROFIT ORGU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDSAN ANTONIO, TXPERMIT NO 1126

Calendar of Events

Down Syndrome Associationof San Antonio

2800 NW Loop 410San Antonio, TX 78230

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

NOVEMBER1,8,15,22,29 - Playgroup Kinder Music:Music Arts Center Northwest,

12732 Cimarron Path,Ste.100,11 a.m.1San Antonio Northside PSG:Nutrition,Coker UMC,

231 E.North Loop Rd.Gibbs 1108,6:30 – 8:30 p.m.4D.A.D.S.:Meeting,DSASA Office,2800 NW Loop 410,7 p.m.12Kid Connection:Inspire Fine Art Center,200 Queen Anne Court,

10:30 a.m.12Teen Club & Adult Matters:Nature Hiking,Friedrich Wilderness

Park,21395 Milsa Road,10:30 a.m.15San Antonio Southside PSG:Kinetic Kids,De Paul Family Center,

7607 Somerset Road,6 - 7:30 p.m.17New Braunfels PSG:Therapeutic Horseback Riding,Gruene UMC,

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

DECEMBER6San Antonio Northside PSG:Kinetic Kids,Coker UMC,

231 E.North Loop Rd.Gibbs 1108,6:30 - 8:30 p.m.10New Braunfels PSG:Playdate at McKenna Children’s Museum,

801 W.San Antonio St.,10:30 a.m.- 12:30 p.m.13San Antonio Southside PSG:Sleep Apnea,De Paul Family Center,

7607 Somerset Road,6 - 7:30 p.m.20DSASA Annual Holiday Party:La Villita Assembly Building

(main floor),401 Villita,5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

JANUARY3San Antonio Northside PSG:Open Forum,Coker UMC,

231 E.North Loop Rd.Gibbs 1108,6:30 - 8:30 p.m.7Teen Club:Bowling,Brunswick Thousand Oaks,

4330 Thousand Oaks Blvd.,3 p.m.14Adult Matters:My Fit Foods Nutrition,DSASA Office Upstairs,

2800 NW Loop 410,11 a.m.14Playgroup:Funtastic Playland,7142 San Pedro #112,10 a.m.17San Antonio Southside PSG:Dreams Fulfilled Through Music,

De Paul Family Center,7607 Somerset Road,6 - 7:30 p.m.19New Braunfels PSG:PALS Training #1,Gruene UMC,

2629 E.Common St.,6 - 7:30 p.m.21Kid Connection:Clay Casa,502 Embassy Oaks #107,10 a.m.

FEBRUARY4Teen Club:Teen Karaoke Party,Pam Stephens Center,

6530 Wurzbach,6 - 8 p.m.7San Antonio Northside PSG:What Happens After High School?,

Coker UMC,231 E.North Loop Rd.Gibbs 1108,6:30 - 8:30 p.m.11Playgroup:The Little Gym,20711 Wilderness Oak,Suite 106,10 a.m.11Adult Matters:Bowling,Brunswick Thousand Oaks,

4330 Thousand Oaks Blvd.,2 p.m.16New Braunfels PSG:PALS Training #2,Gruene UMC,

2629 E.Common St.,6 - 7:30 p.m.18Kid Connection:Funtastic Playland,7142 San Pedro #112,10 a.m.21San Antonio Southside PSG:PALS Training #1,De Paul Family

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