Adams Boy Named Down Syndrome Ambassador

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ADAMS, Mass. — Lucas Solak of ​Adams was announced this week as an ambassador of Nothing Down, an organization aiming to change the way the world views Down syndrome.

Four-year-old ​Lucas is one of 29 new ambassadors from across the globe. He was chosen to represent Nothing Down and, alongside his family, will assist the organization through community outreach, fundraising and social media promotion for the duration of 2020.

The mission of Nothing Down is to provide support, advocacy, education and opportunities for individuals and families that have been touched by Down syndrome. They aim to change the way that the world views Down syndrome and eliminate the stigmas that are often associated with disabilities. The organization produces documentaries, viral photo and video projects, an annual calendar, and social media campaigns that highlight the promise and beauty of individuals with Down syndrome.


In addition, Nothing Down runs several programs — Blessing Baskets of Hope, which supports new and expectant parents of babies with Down syndrome, and a nationwide World Down Syndrome Day school program that celebrates differences and fosters acceptance among students. The school program raises awareness and funds for participating schools during the week of World Down Syndrome Day (March 21).

Nothing Down ambassadors and their families support the organization’s mission by promoting such programs and by educating the public on the potential and abilities of individuals with Down syndrome. Nothing Down announced the application process for their Ambassador Program in January. They received more than 500 applications, hailing from 42 states and 11 different countries.

Lucas ​and his 28 fellow ambassadors were announced this week through a slideshow on the Nothing Down Facebook page. To keep up with the ambassadors and their mission, follow along on Facebook, Instagram or the website.

 


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Adams Free Library Pastel Painting Workshops

ADAMS, Mass. — Award-winning pastel artist Gregory Maichack will present three separate pastel painting workshops for adults and teens 16+, to be hosted by the Adams Free Library. 
 
Wednesday, April 24 The Sunflower; Wednesday, May 8 Jimson Weed; and Thursday, May 23 Calla Turned Away from 10:00 a.m. to noon.  
 
Registration is required for each event.  Library events are free and open to the public.
 
These programs are funded by a Festivals and Projects grant of the Massachusetts Cultural Council.
 
This workshop is designed for participants of all skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Attendees will create a personalized, original pastel painting based on Georgia O’Keefe’s beautiful pastel renditions of The Sunflower, Jimson Weed and Calla Turned Away. All materials will be supplied. Seating may fill quickly, so please call 413-743-8345 to register for these free classes.
 
Maichack is an award-winning portraitist and painter working primarily in pastels living in the Berkshires. He has taught as a member of the faculty of the Museum School in Springfield, as well as at Greenfield and Holyoke Community College, Westfield State, and the Boston Museum of Fine Arts.
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