PUSH America, Journey of Hope - June 5th, 2012

This event happened a while ago, but better late than never...
When most people think of fraternities, they think "Animal House" and a bunch of young guys getting into shenanigans.  Most people don't think of the great charitable works that a lot of these guys do.  Being at ARC of Amador for several years, every year we all look forward to the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity returning for a stop in to say "hi" on their cross country cycling trip that raises money for PUSH America, Journey of Hope.  The North Team guys stopped in on June 5th and we treated them to a lunch and a bunch of smiles.  And, of course, I made them pose for a BUNCH of pictures. 

Three cycling teams of 35 Pi Kappa Phi members start out at three different locations on the west coast; Seattle, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. All three teams ride across country and meet in Washington, D.C. They raise over half a million dollars annually for funds and awareness people with disabilities. They're a GREAT bunch of guys, and I hope you get a chance to check them out and of course, enjoy my photos.

I'm always ready to pose for a picture

Me with a new friend

My friend, Chris

 

 Thanks again, guys!  We'll see you again next year!

Volcano Cannonball Run Car Show - June 30, 2012

Well, another year has come and gone for the Cannonball Run Car Show in Volcano. I had a great time visiting and scmoozing with friends. I sold a lot of raffle tickets and got a sunburn on my little, bald head. This year, we raffled off a really cool BBQ grill that looked like a hot rod engine. Lots of people wanted to win that one. Hope you enjoy my pictures!

The winner of "Pat's Pick" award.  This award is better than winning "Best of Show" :)
1934 Ford Sedan.   I like sedans...they protect my bald head, unlike those convertibles

This year's t-shirt artwork

The 4th of July Parade that rolls two times through the town during the show

My Mountain Man friend Jack (right) who was in the parade

My friends, Joyce and Mario, after winning the hot rod BBQ

Me and my new friend, Levi

March

March is an important month for me and those with Down syndrome.  I'll first get to why it's important to me.  March is the month for Saint Patrick's Day - which has my name in it, so it's totally MY day!  Plus I'm Catholic and the saints are completely cool - especially Saint Patrick.  So, if you're reading this, please wish me a Happy Saint Patrick's Day (even though I'm Portuguese/Ukrainian :)  ).

But, March is important to those of us with Down syndrome because the 7th is dedicated to ending the "r" word.  To me, my family, and my friends it is a completely hurtful word.  It infers that those of us with daily challenges are less than human.  It infers that we are different, and therefore less.  I am none of those things.  Even if it's being said as a joke to someone who is considered "normal" it carries the same hurt.  It is a sad and stupid word used only by sad and uneducated people.  So, join the pledge to stop using it by clicking on the link to the right.  To be clear, I am special.  I am loved.  I am a photographer.  I'm a dog owner.  I have even gone to college.  The "r" word should change to be "respect".  Word.

The other important day in March is the 21st.  Get it?  March 21st is 3/21 - or trisomy 21!  (http://www.worlddownsyndromeday.org/ ).  As the signs say, "I rock my 21st chromosome".  And I do!  I make the most of my 21st chromosome.  I think my parents are still surprised at the places I go and how many people say "Hey Patrick"!  I am popular.  It must be my good looks.

Anyhow, that's why March is important.  Show your support.  Just sayin'.