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Down syndrome kids shine at Colorado Springs' Christmas variety show

2024-11-29

When the stage lights up for "Christmas This Year," an annual holiday variety show featuring performers with Down syndrome, it marks a remarkable decade of growth. From a small gathering with just a few performers, it has transformed into a sold-out holiday extravaganza at the Ent Center for the Arts in Colorado Springs. Showrunner Jared Anderson reflects on the years that have "flown by" as the show continues to expand.

"Celebrating Christmas with Down Syndrome: A Spectacular Journey"

Show's Inception

In 2015, Christian musician Jared Anderson visited Club 21 in South Africa, a nonprofit school for those with Down syndrome. Observing and performing with the students who had learned his songs inspired him to consider a similar venture closer to home. Back in Colorado Springs, he and his wife Megan began by calling local friends with Down syndrome kids. The first show was held in a church sanctuary with a few families, featuring some readings and a song or two.The next year, they moved the show to Rampart High School to reach a wider audience. Word spread, and more families came forward, seeking a social and creative outlet for their special-needs children. Initially titled "15th of December" after a song Anderson wrote to satirize holiday traditions, the show's growth led to a name change.

Performer Growth

Over the years, the number of performers with Down syndrome on the Ent Center stage has steadily increased. In 2021, 27 families signed up, and the following year, it grew to 46. This year, the program will include 60 participants, ranging in age from 6 months to nearly 40 years. Breanna Bradshaw, 39, will be performing for the seventh year, and she loves being a part of it. "I've been with Jared and Megan a long time," she says.For many of the performers, the show is a chance to shine in front of their families. As Beverly Bradshaw, Breanna's mother, puts it, "She's watched her brothers play, and now it's her turn to shine. They all come to support her, and she's having a blast."Laura Jacobo's son Jeremiah will perform for the second straight year. She emphasizes that the show focuses on the kids' abilities rather than their limitations. "The fact that he has Down syndrome is the first thing people see, because of the facial features," she says. "But he's very smart, talented, and independent. A lot of these kids are."

Impact and Future

While giving local Down syndrome kids a big stage to showcase their talents, the show also raises funds to support Friends of Club 21, a local nonprofit. Last year's show raised nearly $200,000. Bolstered by the show's large turnout, the Andersons are looking to expand their venture to include year-round engagement activities. They hope to start a small arts academy to provide day programs for special-needs kids and adults."There are day programs out there for special needs, and they provide a good service, but in a way, they're kind of like babysitting," Jared Anderson says. "They go to the park, or the library, or shopping. There's value in those activities, but we'd like to see more, especially for the (Down syndrome) population that has graduated out of the school system."In the meantime, the showrunners encourage Colorado Springs residents with a relative with Down syndrome to attend the show and consider adding their loved ones to the cast. "There's beauty and talent here, and we have a lot of fun," Anderson says. "Dancing and singing and celebrating. That's the jam."For show dates and times, visit christmasthisyear.org.

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Re: “Pro-choice missteps drove voters away,” by Joshua Whitfield, Nov. 15 Opinion. In this discourse, we delve into the complex issues surrounding reproductive rights and the role of pro-choice voters. For many pro-choice Catholics, including myself, reproductive rights entail the right to healthcare that may involve an abortion in specific circumstances. When a woman's life is at risk or a fetus is non-viable or has already died within her body, she should be able to make this decision with her doctor alone, as this is not the purview of the government.

Navigating the Controversial Terrain of Reproductive Rights

Pro-choice and the Right to Healthcare

For pro-choice advocates, the right to healthcare is of utmost importance. It encompasses the ability to make decisions regarding one's body and reproductive health. In certain situations, such as when a woman's life is in danger or a fetus is not viable, the choice to have an abortion should be left to the individual in consultation with her doctor. This perspective emphasizes the autonomy and agency of women in matters related to their health.There are valid reasons for this stance. Women often face unique challenges and circumstances that require individualized care. By allowing them to make decisions in collaboration with their doctors, we respect their rights and well-being. It is a matter of personal choice and should not be dictated by external forces.

Florida Surgeon General's Advice and Its Implications

Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo's advice to stop adding fluoride to the water supply has sparked a debate. While Robert F. Kennedy Jr. contends that fluoride should not be in our water, the actual basis for his concern remains unclear. When the author moved to Hawaii at 15 and had no cavities initially but developed multiple cavities within three years despite no change in oral hygiene, it raises questions about the role of fluoride.This incident highlights the need for evidence-based decisions. Just because there is a claim does not mean it is valid. We must carefully consider the potential impacts and rely on scientific research to make informed choices about such matters.

Minimizing Trump's Victory and Its Consequences

The constant PolitiFact checks on President-elect Donald Trump and the tendency to minimize his victory raise concerns. A strong majority in the country desires a stronger economy, reduced food prices, energy independence, safer neighborhoods, and a secure border. We should give a new administration a fair chance and avoid downplaying their achievements.It is important to recognize the significance of the election and the potential for positive change. By focusing on the issues that matter to the people, we can work towards a better future.

Limits on Immigration and the Promise of Liberty

Erickson's claim that the promise to the huddled masses is no longer available raises important questions. By looking at the statistics, we can see that the world's population has grown significantly while the U.S. population has also increased. However, there must be limits to immigration to ensure that the country can handle the influx and provide resources and opportunities.The promise of liberty still exists for limited and legal entry. We need to find a balance between welcoming those in need and protecting the interests of the nation.

Paying for Health Care and the Need for Reform

As a retired physician and health-care policy nerd, the author has witnessed the challenges and complexities of the healthcare system. While privatization of health care has been touted as a solution, it has often led to disaster and increased costs.Medicare for all and private insurance for those who can afford it offer a more viable approach. By providing quality care for all at a reasonable cost, we can ensure that everyone has access to the healthcare they need. It is time to reevaluate our healthcare policies and work towards a more sustainable system.

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