Friends, 2005 was a mixed bag. We made important strides and we had painful disappointments, all of which fueled the relentless pace of activity here. There was never a lull. On balance, I believe that the campaign to promote violence-free treatment of children at home and school is gaining ground. The number of requests for our materials has escalated steadily. Parents, educators, and others in child-related fields are asking for our information in greater numbers than ever before. Like-minded thinkers and doers are arriving unbidden at our doorstep offering alliances full of potential. Is it possible that finally the tide is turning? I think so. Most important of all, the emerging trend is infecting good people everywhere. They are searching their consciences and concluding that hitting, hurting, frightening and humiliating children “for their own good” is, and always was, a bad theory. Permit me to share two recent letters to PTAVE which I believe are illustrative: To Whom It May Concern: I am an undergraduate student at a Virginia Community College. In a few weeks I am giving a speech on “The Harmful Effects of Spanking Children.” At the conclusion, I’d like to hand something memorable out to my classmates and professor. Would it be possible to obtain about 30 to 35 of your “Kids Safe Zone” stickers? I understand it’s a big request, in a very short time period. I just think your stickers are a perfect exclamation point for my presentation. Thank you so much for your time and consideration, and more importantly for the great work you do. As the proud father of two wonderful girls, I am grateful for organizations such as yours that encourage positive reinforcement, not corporal punishment. Sincerely, Marc And: I would very much like a few Kids’ Safe Zone stickers. A friend gave my 4-year-old son one, and after an uncomfortable conversation in which I explained what it was about, he very proudly put it on his bedroom door. The more people who see this sticker and have that uncomfortable conversation, the better! Thanks in advance, Pamela The Pamelas and the Marcs are so many, one loses track. Love them all! On the practical side, I am pleased to report that our base of support is increasing steadily. PTAVE's growing number of generous friends are making it possible for us not only to fill all requests promptly, respond to those who ask for help, but also to pursue a strategy of aggressive outreach where it seems called for. Unlike the old days when we had to struggle just to cover the costs of printing and the postage, now we can focus on the issues. What a blessing! I am profoundly grateful. I wish you a holiday season filled with warmth and good cheer. Rejoice with your loved ones -- especially with the children. Eat well, laugh plenty and drive safely. Then join us in 2006 when we will renew our efforts to make it a better world for all children everywhere. Sincerely, Jordan Riak, Exec. Dir. PTAVE