World Down Syndrome Day is a global awareness day observed on March 21 each year.

This date (3/21) represents the 3 copies of chromosome 21, which is unique to people with Down syndrome, and people and organizations worldwide celebrate on this day in a variety of different ways. The Arc will be celebrating Tuesday, March 20, from 6 to 8 p.m. at The Arc of Mower County, 401 2nd Ave. NE, Austin.

March 21 marks the seventh anniversary of World Down Syndrome Day and for the first time in 2012 this day will be officially observed by the United Nations.

Each year the voice of people with Down syndrome, and those who live and work with them, grows louder. But there is still so much more we can do.

Event Highlights Include: Food, Cake and Refreshments, Games, Crafts and Fun with other families and a World Down Syndrome Day Video.

There is no cost to participate. Please RSVP by Monday, March 19, 2012.

 Your support makes a difference

The 17th Annual Rose Sale will be held Feb. 21 – March 27 with pick-up /delivery date of April 3 (Tuesday before Easter).

Let someone know that you care and support the work of The Arc of Mower County by supporting our 17th Annual Rose Sale.

Order forms are available on our website at ww.arcmowercounty.org or you may use the insert in the February 2012 and March 2012 editions of VISIONS.

You can also email your orders to roses@arcmowercounty.org and mail your payment to The Arc.

The 2nd Annual Taste of Mower County will be held from 4:30 to 7:30 on Saturday, March 24 in the Holiday Inn Grand Ballroom in Austin.

Enjoy unlimited tastings of signature offerings from Mower County’s finest chefs. Tickets are available now and cost $25 for individual or $40 for couples.

There are sponsorship opportunities available with great benefits.

 Upcoming Events

•Monday: Health and Wellness Exercise Class, from 4 to 5 p.m.

•Tuesday: The Down Syndrome Connection of Mower County, from 6 to 8 p.m.

•Wednesday: Mower County Special Olympics Bowling from 4:00 – 5:30 and World Down Syndrome Day

•Thursday: Bingo, from 6:30 to p.m.

•Friday: Open Center, from 6 to 8 p.m.

•Saturday: Second Annual Taste of Mower County from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Holiday Inn of Austin.