The school year has ended. No more homework until September. Lots of time to enjoy the special opportunities of summer: a trip to the zoo or the science center, Kennywood or Ohiopyle; an opportunity to learn French or Spanish, to act in a play, dance, try a new craft; a time to work on improving reading skills and discovering the fun of scientific experimentation.
But first, a well-earned end-of-the-school year party for resident kids and their moms is in order. It's a gorgeous summer day. No rain. Not too hot. A nearby church has offered use of its facilities, and the tree-shaded yard is the perfect place to gather with the event hosts: HCEF staff, folks from Haddad-Wiley Industries, and the dedicated group of volunteer Reading Mentors who've been reading with the children in recent months.
Staff members set up the tables, hang the welcome balloons,
and then join with the mentors for a training session before the kids, moms, and friends from Haddad-Wylie arrive.
"They're here," someone calls out. Not too surprisingly the kids make a bee-line for the dessert table – where Haddad-Wylie folks are setting up the sweet treats – and to the beverage table, already serving cold drinks.
None too soon the call goes out: "Let's eat!"
"Don't forget dessert," someone says. "Not likely," someone else replies, especially with two such helpers eager to serve.
On to the games!
(6/22/09)
