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Buddy Walk Brings New Friends Together
By: Jawanda Mast Special to East Memphis Appeal Jawanda Mast Special to East Memphis Appeal
Source: The Commercial Appeal Memphis, TN
10/27/2005

The eighth annual Buddy Walk for Down Syndrome Awareness brought together almost 2,800 people who helped individuals with Down syndrome take steps toward a brighter tomorrow.

The Buddy Walk, sponsored by the Down Syndrome Association of the Mid-South, was held at Memphis Botanic Garden .

A new and popular feature was the Imagine the PossABILITIES tent, a showcase of individuals with Down syndrome and their talents from cheerleading and singing to beautiful displays of artwork.

One of the highlights was participation by Memphis City, Shelby County and DeSoto County school leadership.

Dr. Carol Johnson, superintendent of Memphis City Schools, Wanda Halbert, president of Memphis Board of Education, Ron Lollar and Anne Edmiston of the Shelby County School Board and Emily Adams from the DeSoto County Schools attended.

Also participating were Bartlett Mayor Keith McDonald and representatives from the offices of Rep. Harold Ford Jr. and Memphis Mayor Willie Herenton.

The 2005 Buddy Walk featured entertainment by Toasted Opus, Company D and the Memphis Elite Special Tigers, with Channel 3 weatherman Todd Demers as the emcee.

The combined support of individuals and corporations allowed the DSAM to raise over $75,000 to support year-round programs.

The Down Syndrome Association of the Mid-South has the mission of providing a brighter future for individuals with Down syndrome.

For information, contact the Down Syndrome Association of the Mid- South at 541-5155 or e-mail dsamninfo@yahoo.com or go to the Web site at dsamemphis.org .

Jawanda Mast is the chair of Buddy Walk for Down Syndrome Awareness.

(C) 2005 The Commercial Appeal Memphis, TN. via ProQuest Information and Learning Company; All Rights Reserved

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