The runways of Paris and New York had nothing on the Vestavia Hills Civic Center on Aug. 10, when Down Syndrome Alabama hosted its second Football, Fashions & Fun event.

Thirty models with Down syndrome strutted their style in the latest game-day looks from local retail sponsors.

More than 100 supporters cheered the energetic, charismatic fashionistas, who ranged from toddlers to young adults. Some veteran models from last year’s inaugural show blew kisses, waved to the crowd, or struck classic catwalk poses. Others offered up cartwheels and high kicks to the delight of the audience.

“Being a kid like me, I was the greatest,” said model Landon Norman, 15, of Hoover. “Walking was awesome!”

Landon’s mom, Dr. Christina Norman, summed up why the experience is so significant. “It gives ever

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