13th Annual DSALA Buddy Walk

Sunday, November 11, 2007
Santa Anita Park

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Photos

Everyone had a great time, and it shows in these great photos.

Click here to see them. Password: downsyndrome

Here are a few to whet your appetite:

Santa Anita Buddy Walk Recap
By: Dana Young

Smiles and laughter were the order of the day at the 2005 DSALA Buddy Walk, held at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia. Over 1,000 people, from adorable infants to doting grandparents, attended the fun-filled event.

Children of all ages giggled as they rode in mini jets provided by the U.S. Air Force or were "run over" by a mock Mars rover provided by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. In another area, they tested their luck and skill at carnival games, had whimsical designs painted on their faces, and created beautiful works of art. The Born to Act Players and the High Spirit Dancers offered workshops in acting and dance, respectively, which got people involved in these fun activities.

Parents, meanwhile, spent quite a bit of time at the vendor fair, which offered products, information, and services that are especially meaningful to families with a special needs child. Everything from legal services to equestrian programs to developmental toys were offered by more than 25 vendors present. And all of these activities happened with the music of KOST 103.5 playing in the background.

The purpose of the Buddy Walk is two-fold: to raise awareness of people with Down syndrome, and to raise funds. This year's Walk was highly successful on both fronts. Our master of ceremonies was Mark Wallengren, one of the morning disc jockies from KOST. Our Grand Marshal, K-CAL news anchor Sylvia Lopez, enjoyed the day with her family. Others on hand to lend their support included Congressman David Dreier and NDSS National Buddy Walk Chairman John C. McGinley.