Just one year ago, I walked in to the Project Read Holiday Party feeling nervous because I knew that Heather was going to introduce me to my learner. I was hoping that I would make a good impression, that he would like me, that we would be one of those well-matched pairs that had recently come to visit my tutor training.
     The music was playing. The beautiful jazzy World Sound of the trio coming from the corner of the room helped me relax. The aromas of the foods that people brought were enticing — jambalaya, gumbo, casseroles, salads, desserts.
     I finally found Heather and she introduced me to Charles, the man she had chosen for me to tutor. How could I have known then that I would return a year later to the Holiday Party, this time feeling like I was celebrating with a group of people who have come to feel like a family? Warm greetings were given by Warren and Randy as I arrived early to “help.” (The truth is, I couldn’t wait to get there!) There was Tara, busily preparing all the minute details that make the festivities such a success. Brian’s face was hard to see behind the video camera. Wave to Brian! Heather, as always, looked glamorous in a long velvet gown that caught the light and shone at times red, then green. Lynne bustled about holding door prizes à la Carol Merrill on Let’s Make a Deal, a side of Lynne I never knew before. Leon, as always, spoke briefly yet eloquently.
     But the best part was enjoying the fun with Charles, who, after a year of working together, has not only increased his reading two grade levels (Way to go, Charles!), but also has become a treasured friend. The ways that Charles has enriched my life are many. I want to thank him here, on these pages, for the past year.
     Happy New Year, Charles!

Many of you who have gotten to know me over the years know I have two very deep passions. One is the desire to see every learner and tutor in our program work together as a team and be successful. The second is to become the best golfer on planet earth (in my age bracket)! I am happy to announce that as of the end of this year, you are making my first passion come true. You guys are doing a great job!
     Now for my second passion: is it really all that important to me to be the best golfer on the whole planet earth? Yes it is! Just so you know, I will be playing in some golf tournaments here in Northern California this year to make my second passion a reality.
     I will be personally keeping an eye on you guys to help you when I can or give you-know-what when needed. Thank you all for letting me play a role in your learning, and I wish you all a very happy New Year!