1998 Newsletter - Training and self advocacy for parents

1998 Newsletter
November, 1998

Hello Friend,

We hope you enjoy our new logo, the beautiful symbol of hope for the Foundation. Ennis used to tell his sisters to look toward the sun and moon and think of him. It was his way of watching over them, day and night. Two of Ennis' sisters, Erika and Ensa, provided the artistic concept for our logo, which incorporates the sun and moon. Detailed information about Ennis' life, the Foundation, and help for children with learning differences can now be found on the Foundation web-site. (www.hellofriend.org) Mr. Colin Hodges, a twenty-one year old student with learning differences, designed the site. Enjoy a wealth of helpful information by visiting us on the world wide web, and please pass the news along to friends and teachers!



	Congratulating one of the winners at the Cube Checkers Championship in New York.

The culmination of the Mr. Bill Cosby and FAO Schwartz "Cube Checkers" tournament was held in November, with the proceeds from the event and sale of the game donated to the Foundation. Read more about the Bill Cosby Cube Checker Challenge.

Mr. Russell Cosby and Ms. Carolyn Olivier have continued their public awareness efforts in a series of speaking engagements around the country. Mr. Cosby and Ms. Olivier have presented topics such as parenting, effective teaching, and self advocacy to parents, teachers, administrators, and other professionals in Texas, Idaho, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. In September, 1998 Russell Cosby keynoted the opening of the "Brownsville Reads" Conference in Brownsville, Texas with Governor George Bush. Ms. Olivier, the Foundation's education director, provided training sessions for area administrators.

Also in November, 1998 the Foundation distributed over 5300 beautiful dictionaries, containing Ennis' heartfelt story on each inner cover, to every 5th and 6th grade student in 31 different Philadelphia area schools (Read the dedication printed in the dictionaries).

Production has begun on an hour-long public awareness film about learning differences that will air on national television. We have lined up a "cast" of inspirational people who are eager to contribute their stories and experiences to the film. Videos, along with informative booklets, will be distributed across the country.

As you can see, 1998 has been an exciting year for the Foundation! We have many plans for future projects, including the establishment of teachers' training and Ennis William Cosby Scholar programs. Your past, present and future support will enable the Foundation to continue providing much needed information about learning differences to all people.

Sincerely,

Phillip D. Caputo
President and Executive Director