Barreling into the van, Casper and I are celebrating our one year partnership on this thrilling day. A year ago we were matched. Today, I am filled with awe at the sounds of happiness emanating in the warm, balmy air, excitement growing with each mile, as we drive down the highway. With each passing mile, we begin to wonder what the day will entail. Knowing we’re getting ready to attend a holiday party and celebrate the day together as a team makes the day even cheerier. As we reach our destination, the wire surrounding the walls of the prison comes into view. A prison? Yes, our holiday party will take place behind bars, but for one day, the cell around our hearts will unlock and awareness as well as knowledge will permeate our spirits.

You see, my beloved Casper was raised in prison and spent much of his first year of life behind bars. What one might picture prison being ends up being all that and so much more. PAALS partners with Kershaw County Correctional Institute to assist in the training of their puppies during the work week. A pre-screened group of inmates carefully selected, works one-on-one with our dogs. Sometimes, they even serve as mentors to newer participants and share their wisdom. As we gathered in the meeting room, the steel bars locking behind us, we opened up to new territory yet unexplored.

We each took a seat; volunteers, clients, inmates, prison personnel, and even the warden. Within this circle of new acquaintances, many tears were shed as well as a deep respect for the time put into the program emerged. Each of us clients shared how each of our dogs touches our lives through the work they do for us. While I showed how Casper takes off my shoes and socks, I explained that without him, I would be reliant on others for simple tasks. He has changed my life tremendously and each day, I am thankful to them and the inmates for preparing him to be my service dog. As each of us spoke, the inmates listened to how some clients can now leave their homes or now go to the store because of the time these men put into preparing the dogs to take on these tasks.

Once we had spoken, the inmates shared what training a PAALS dog has meant to them. As one man said, “Training Ceva and Earle has helped to train me.” Knowing they have a purpose and the ability to impact another’s life makes a difference to them. As they look at you, you see the outpouring of love each man has for the dogs they trained. We learned personal stories from them of whose dog was funny, what tasks/cues were hard to teach, whose dog was the rowdiest, and whose was the most quiet. Explaining how they work with our dogs, you understand how between volunteer as well as client and inmate grew a quiet, subtle, cherished bond. While they have made mistakes, they each want to make someone, a stranger’s life, better.

As we ate snacks that afternoon, we discovered common ground…our connection…amazing canines who are loved by so many and trained by a cohesive group. Looking around the room that day, I felt so thankful for this experience. Our attitudes and perceptions were changed as were theirs about us. When we were about to leave, a man approached us and did a say hello with Casper. He reached down and hugged him. He whispered, “You’re much better behaved now. I love you and still think of you daily. I have your picture on my cell wall.” He looked at me and said, “Casper is lucky,” and I said, “So am I.” In that moment, I saw one man’s love for my dog, who has not seen him in a year, is as strong as mine. To me, there are many gifts in the world that are valuable. However, this gift of selfless giving and working together for the goal of providing independence for individuals is priceless!!

Special thanks:
Sheri
Jen
The Warden
PAALS Prison Program
Weekend Fosters’

**”You give us the freedom to live our lives with confidence and strength because of our trusted canine partners. Thank you for the greatest of life’s gifts!!”** ~Dori

With the growing number of children and adolescents being unable to read, programs are needed to facilitate the process. Keep in mind this is not an easy feat. When you’re younger, your main focus is to fit in with your social group. And, if you cannot read, then you become a target for criticism or negative remarks. Knowing this, our local library set up a program to help children develop as well as utilize skills to become improved or emerging readers, “Paws for Reading.”

“What is this program, you might ask?” Every Saturday, once a month since September, Dori, Bryan, and I visit the children’s reading room. We sit on a soft quilt in the middle of the floor with books surrounding us. I and my other canine cohort, Bruno, are introduced to the group that day. Bruno is a hearing dog from another program who helps out, too. The kids gather outside the room, anxiously awaiting their turn to meet us. “Who wouldn’t like to hang out with handsome, smart guys like us?” Due to the excitement surrounding meeting us, the children are blissfully unaware they will be learning at the same time.

Each child comes in the room, one at a time, and sits down next to me or Bruno on our individual quilts. In my case, Dori introduces me to each child during his/her session, and explains that I am her service dog as well as how I help her. At this point, I usually give them one of my charming gazes which gets them more excited. The child then sits next to me on one side and Dori sits on the floor on the other. She explains that my cape is off, and demonstrates the proper way to pet me. Once they relax, the real fun begins…

They look through the pile of books, chosen by the librarian. At times, they ask which book I would like to hear, my first inclination is “Clifford the Red Dog”, or “Biscuit.” I can relate to these dogs, they each like to have fun and work hard, too. Then, they cuddle in close to me, and open their book; I usually gaze at the book or lay my head on their leg, listening intently. Slowly, they read to me; when the child gets stuck or confused by a word, Dori or Bryan take turns helping them sound the syllables out. Then, I look at the child, providing quiet encouragement. Most of them are so focused on me that they forget help is being given. I love when they rub my back; it soothes them and is comforting. I show them reading is fun and dogs don’t care if you make mistakes. Gradually, they become stronger and by the end of our session, the children are reading confidently with big smiles on their faces.

Usually, I have six to eight children read to me each month. Some now even bring their siblings or friends along with them. Each child tells me how cute I am and how they wish they could stay longer and read more books with me. But to me, each child shows how all of us can learn new concepts with the right supports. A neat bonus of the program is many of the parents request a picture with me and their child as a keepsake to remember the day. Some kids who were originally scared of dogs now sit and hug me close as they read. In the end, “Paws for Reading,” shows children reading can be rewarding and influence your life for the better. When they enter the classroom now, reading is a source of pleasure rather than pain.

From this dog to our many readers: “Paws for Reading” is a BONEified way to make a difference in children’s lives. It is my privilege to give back to the community when so many have given to us and PAALS!! ☺

Dori, Casper, Jen, & Spirit

Have you ever wondered what makes PAALS so special? Is it the adorable dogs they train? Or, is it the dedicated volunteers or prisoners who raise and foster them? Perhaps, it’s the devoted Executive Director and her husband, Jen and Chuck Rogers, who selflessly give of their time as well as home to improve the quality of life for individuals like myself. Maybe, it’s the generous sponsors and benefactors who contribute money or resources to keep the program continuing.

Casper and AJ

No matter the reason, PAALS continues to change lives in the community. This week, I had the opportunity to meet an amazing man who works to overcome life’s challenges to move forward. His positive, shining spirit truly touched me. Having faced the perils of war, this brave soldier works hard to integrate back into life. No matter the circumstance, he rises to the occasion, asking not what can be done for himself, but what he can do for others.

As I witnessed this man’s compassion and true courage to acquire a service dog, so he can focus on living his life again, I am reminded just how many people’s lives PAALS changes for the better. The school children we speak to during presentations who now will have a service dog in their classroom. The soldier who couldn’t leave his home due to his negative feelings associated with PTSD, now can play cards with his friends, or another who can go shopping again. The family whose father now has support when he drops his cane or needs his cell phone retrieved. The single mom who raises her son, but has assistance when she drops an object or needs a door opened. The OT and PT at the hospital who constantly change the lives of their patients with their canine assistants.

These dogs not only impact their partner’s lives, but so many in the community. Last week, Casper and I encountered a young man in his twenties who’s had his face disfigured. The man approached and Casper focussed on him. Unlike others who take notice though, Casper turned, letting him “say hello.” He touched Casper’s body and ears, but not one to be shy, Casper lovingly looked past the scars to the man beneath. In Casper’s eyes, he was a warm soul who needed encouragement. What Casper gave him silently was acceptance. That’s the greatest gift any human can receive.

On this Thanksgiving, the keyword is, “Giving.” Through so many dogs and several programs, PAALS makes a difference!! In the spirit of this holiday, giving thanks, I invite anyone who has been touched by PAALS in even the smallest ways to give back. My family has been blessed to see my independence flourish due to my loving boy, Casper. If you would like to show your appreciation or honor the volunteers or inspiring canines, please donate to one of two programs: The Valora Memorial Client Scholarship Fund Valora
or The Rob’s Best Friend Fund. Rob\’s Best Friend Fund

In memory of her beloved Guide Dog, Valora, PAALS Advisory Board Member, JoAnne Herman, has endowed the Valora Memorial Client Scholarship Fund. The Valora Memorial Client Scholarship will be awarded annually to a PAALS’ client to offset the funds they are required to raise upon receiving their service dog.

In 2007, PAALS began a program to specifically help people who have served us through military, police, or fire fighter service. The Rob’s Best Friend Fund was started in memory of PAALS founders’ brother and his commitment to police work and passion for dogs.

The goal of the Rob’s Best Friend Fund is to provide service dogs to veterans in need without requiring them to fund raise to support the service. PAALS believes that these individuals have already served us and should be repaid with our support in their time of need.

Help Make PAALS SHINE STRONGER by “Giving Thanks, and Providing The Gift that Keeps Giving To Their Human Partner, day by day, year by year, 24/7 365 days a year”

HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS!!

Hey y’all! You may have been introduced to me from the last newsletter, but if not, my name is Sarah, I’m a born and raised New Orleanian. I just graduated from Louisiana State University with a degree in Animal Science and Technology, and I’m the Intern at PAALS from September-January.

During college, I found a magazine article about the organization Dogs 4 Diabetics. I am currently in my 9th year of being in control of Type I diabetes (also known as Juvenile diabetes), and am very grateful to be able to say that I have not had any complications or reason to go to the hospital because of it. The Dogs 4 Diabetics program trains their dogs to sense severe increases or drops in blood glucose levels, react accordingly, and help to avoid seizures, comas, and long-term complications. When I learned about what these hypo-alert dogs were doing to impact so many lives, I knew I had found my future career. I wanted to give others just like me the chance to sleep through a night or go out in public without worrying about what may happen, reduce the risk of health problems down the road, AND just give them an unconditionally loving dog that would be there when it felt like no one else knew what they were going through.

But where would I even start this career path? I talked about wanting to train service dogs to many people, but there was always that voice in the back of my mind saying, “Ok, and how many job listings have YOU seen on craigslist looking for a service dog trainer?” Not that service dog organizations would use jut any job network to post employment opportunities, but still, it wasn’t really a common thing that you heard about people doing. I worried if/how I would take the first step to a genuine dream job, and I was honestly intimidated. I sent out emails to several service dog organizations asking about how I could be involved and what qualifications were required to be a trainer, but all I received as a response was that they were only looking for volunteers, and the trainer was the Founder who worked alone because they’ couldn’t afford to hire anyone else. I got more and more anxious that this was not the field I could make a living from, and if I could, I had no background in animal training to qualify for a position.

Then, this past May, I found a post on the Assistant Dog International’s Employment Opportunities page for an internship in South Carolina. I was desperately searching for something more than a volunteer position since receiving my degree, so I looked at the PAALS website and internship description. This “internship is designed for people who are working towards becoming a professional in the assistance dog field or hope to incorporate assistance dogs into a specialized field, and have some related experience.” Hello, Destiny. I’d spent years in vet clinics and at Camp BowWow, so I was no stranger to animal healthcare and behavior. I emailed Ms. Jen Rogers to inquire about applying, sent messages and paperwork back and forth, and mid-July brought a phone interview that I’d never been so excited about having. Two weeks later, I received an email saying that if I accepted the intern position, I’d be welcomed to the PAALS family. This was it. This was my window of opportunity, through which I could see my first step into the service dog industry. I replied with more enthusiasm and excitement than a computer screen could ever convey, and I was set to move to Columbia, SC at the end of August.

My first hours in Columbia were spent watching a temperament test for a dog that was being considered to be taken in by PAALS to train. The next morning, I was on my way to prison to observe a training session of the inmates with dogs, as well as interview some candidates for the Prison PAALS program. I found myself sitting amongst convicted criminals in the first prison I’d ever been to, face-to-face with a 70-year-old man that had been in jails since he was 17, and just wanted to do something good with his life. I watched men that were judged and labeled by society as monsters for being in prison as they worked with the dogs. These puppies didn’t know their trainer’s past, nor did they care. The men were their protectors and caregivers, and the pups gave back unconditional love.

As if that wasn’t an emotion whirlwind of an experience, I attended the closing ceremony of the PAALS Patriots program, where soldiers dealing with PTSD were partnered with a puppy and learned how to do basic cues with them. The soldiers watched as their own stress levels were reflected in the pups, and learned how to have better control of those feelings, as well as find support and loyalty in their puppy. The thanks pouring from both the soldiers and the PAALS members was indescribable. They were the ones protecting our nation, and yet they were thanking us for what we did. Not even 48 hours in Columbia, and I knew I was in for an intense few months.

Just recently, I’ve been able to take a dog on outings with Jen, and it’s exhilarating. I was so nervous at first, because with every cue comes a precise response expected from the dog, and depending on how the dog may incorrectly respond, there’s an appropriate correction. What if I messed these dogs up? What if I did the wrong correction, or told them one thing when they should’ve been cued differently? What if I accepted a behavior that was close to correct, but not quite there? Once I relaxed and stood tall, with Jen’s encouragement, I knew I could do this.

Jen and I just spent almost 3 days doing presentations between Charleston and Myrtle Beach, during which time I was attached to one of the advanced pups, and I finally had the chance to practice what I’d learned. When we were out though, it wasn’t just making sure the dog walked correctly that required effort; there were legal matters to discuss and questions about PAALS to be answered. Every five minutes, we were topped by people with stories, questions, and unbelievable support. Strangers with some of the most demanding and emotionally-exhausting jobs were enthralled by what our work entailed, and thanked us for what we were doing. I’ve never had such a humbling and simultaneously rewarding experience in my life, but I never want it to end.

In the past few weeks, I’ve seen transformations in people I never thought were possible, just from the company of a dog. The emotional stability these dogs provide is overwhelming, as well as the physical capabilities they assist with for people with mobility challenges. The sense of accomplishment when you cue your pup and they respond accordingly provides such confidence and respect to the trainer that can’t be replicated. At-risk youth that think the world has given up on them connect with a living thing that cares about them, listens to them, and depends on the child or teen to take care of them. Prisoners are given a chance to help redeem their mistakes by changing a person’s life when they receive the dog that the inmate helped train. Children with autism find security and routine with taking care of a dog, along with some independence while helping walk their dog, with the guardian in tow. Soldiers and veterans with PTSD are reintroduced to society with peace of mind and a partner that they trust to provide protection and confidence while interacting with the public. People of all ages that are wheelchair-bound are able to function in more places and feel independent in situations that they couldn’t always participate in. I watch the best in people emerge everyday as they donate time, money and effort, and I discover more personalities to admire and attempt to imitate in my own life. I’m inspired, motivated, grateful, and elated on a daily basis, and I while I can’t begin to express the joy I feel in finally knowing from the bottom of my heart that this is where my future lies, I hope I can show that feeling in what I do, how I live, and difference I know I’ll make in the world.

Casper and the Mountain

Casper has a calm, quiet presence. With his gentle demeanor and strong desire to help me, he works diligently to meet my needs. The past few months in particular, Casper has strived to remind me I am the leader. He shows me daily that he expects me to lead his “pack.” In the beginning, this was quite difficult for me because I had a hard time being firm with this sweet, loving canine with soulful eyes. However, for him to succeed, finding and utilizing my “voice” was essential.

In every sense of the words, “service dog,” Casper lives up to their meaning and responsibility. Whether it’s giving him a cue for a skill or navigating him through a new, untraveled situation, he relies on me to take the helm. For Casper, it shows I am comfortable in myself, our surroundings, and reassures him I will always look out for him. With this bond in place, it has allowed us to climb many mountains, both literally and figuratively. For us to pass our recent recertification test, Casper had to trust I would lead us through each task, encouraging him calmly along the way. I had to trust Casper and know that he would perform his skills whether it be a “stand and brace” or an elevator “through” among many crowds of unfamiliar people.

Casper and Me

If you don’t know me, I am not a big fan of the unexpected, uncontrolled, or unplanned. But, having Casper has taught me the bumps in the road of life are not insurmountable. You have to dig deep within yourself, take a deep breath, and live in the moment. Not everything in life has a map, as we discovered this past weekend. Casper and I travelled to Asheville, North Carolina. While there, we stayed in an old Inn. It had narrow doorways and aisles. Casper had to adjust to people overhead banging around at night. He also had to trust me to lead him through crowded streets and restaurants.

Casper

On our second day there, my electric wheelchair battery died, so we had to use my manual wheelchair. This was definitely not planned or desired. The biggest challenge in my mind at the time was how would he do? You see, Casper and I have not practiced using my manual wheelchair because I hardly ever need it. But like the quiet knight in shining armor he is, my partner rose to the task. Casper got into heel position as though we had done this for years, walking beside me. When I got tired, my husband took the lead pushing my chair as I guided Casper with cues. Never one to let me down, Casper was a pro doing throughs, downs, sits, and unders, picking objects up I dropped along the way. The quiet ones are usually the most surprising; Casper proved what a sage warrior he can be in a stressful moment for me. His calmness gives me the strength to be the confident leader he needs, which in turn, permanently bonds us.

The mountains Casper and I have climbed this year are indelibly etched in my mind. He has gotten me through health problems, learned countless skills to assist me, started a new job with me, travelled several places, spoken at schools, businesses, and universities, and made others feel comfortable with themselves. While some of these things may seem small, for us they are a huge gift. An amazing feeling resonates through me when I realize how thankful I am to have Casper as a partner. To think how one dog can change a person’s life is unbelievable. On this week ahead of giving thanks, I would like to thank Casper, my husband, my family, my friends, Guiding Eyes, and PAALS for supporting as well as giving me the gift that continually changes my life for the better, CASPER!

“MAY EVERYONE CLIMB MOUNTAINS THAT LEAD TO THE GREATEST BLESSINGS POSSIBLE!” ~DORI

Casper and Roberta

Have you ever wondered what makes a service dog special? Some might say it’s our intelligence, others think it’s our ability to do amazing tasks for our partners. The factor that stands out for me is how one dog can impact thousands of lives. I have been a service dog for ten months now and in that time, I have learned a great deal. The most important being “service” comes in many forms; the commitment to the job being the vital component. Roberta is about to embark on the greatest adventure a facility service dog can imagine.

A facility service dog works with their partner, in this case, Ms. Blevins, to assist her students in making friends, increasing positive self-esteem, and promoting inclusion. Roberta’s presence has a calming effect on the students and staff members alike. Already, introverted children are increasing their speech by talking to her and emerging readers are improving their confidence by reading aloud to Roberta. Roberta’s main responsibility is to create a cohesive unit among the student body by integrating all students in school activities.

You see, Roberta will be forging a new path; she will be merging minds and melding attitudes, so all students can succeed and flourish. I got to witness first hand just how pivotal Roberta’s role will be in these student’s lives. I did a guest speaking appearance at the school and Roberta is all the buzz in the hallways among the student body. I showed the school all of the great things a service dog can do whether it’s using their mouths, noses, or bodies to assist people in accomplishing tasks. We also utilize cues like a sit or down to help foster social connections. While I perform cues to assist one person in being independent, Roberta will be impacting hundreds of people each day; that’s quite an accomplishment!

Whether Roberta is in the classroom, reading with lots of kids all over the school, or helping calm students that are anxious, frustrated, or sad, she is making a huge difference. Her duties reward kids for doing a great job and teach life skills, such as caring, patience, cooperation, friendship, problem – solving, organization, integrity, and responsibility. By modeling procedures and incorporating the kids into activities, Roberta is demonstrating the ideals of good citizenship as well as community participation. She will also be assisting students with balance and strength deficits. Roberta will encourage students to stay in line by double leash walking with them.

Her largest task to date will be engaging kids in quantitative skill building activities during math and positional activities during language and speech instruction. She will help students develop sequencing skills by performing tasks with them on multiple ability levels. By active participation in classroom circle time, grade level town hall meetings, P.T.O. meetings, and staff meetings, Roberta will be going everywhere the kids go to provide support and encouragement along the way. Her precious face will be one of the first they see as they enter the building, she will greet students in the morning, as they get off the bus and wag her tail, as if saying hello. For students who have difficulty communicating, they will understand everyone is appreciated at Lonnie B. Nelson for their unique qualities. The biggest reward Roberta will receive is the understanding that while some dogs have a kid or two at home; she will have around 500 yearly!! Her greatest gift will be the paw prints she leaves on the hearts as well as minds of many students, family members, staff, and the community at large for many years to come.

Congratulations to my friend, a wonderful service dog, Roberta, for making her PAALS family proud!! If you would like to assist PAALS in educating the community and enhancing students’ lives, you can donate to Roberta’s training fund at:

support_pups.html

You can also come out and meet Roberta and see her in action by supporting PAALS with me at : PAALS Dine With A Service Dog on:

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

AT McAlister’s Deli

119 Sparkleberry Ln
Columbia, SC 29229
5 p.m. – 9 p.m.


Grab a bite with Sherry, her Facility Dog to be, Roberta, and PAALS.

Five percent of the sales will be donated directly to PAALS for Sherry Blevin’s Team Training Fund.

Targeting the access button to enter the building!

Closing the office door

Opening Dori's office with my nose.

At the beginning of October, Dori and I embarked on our new career path. Dori will be assisting consumers with disabilities by providing them resources to empower themselves to reach the highest levels of independence as The Information and Referral Specialist for the Disability Action Center (DAC). While she works with people daily, interacting on the telephone or in person, I am working dutifully by her side all day, eight hours, everyday.

Getting the phone.

Handing Dori the telephone.

Whether I am picking up a pile of papers Dori has dropped in the copy room or retrieving a bottle of water a consumer has dropped and cannot reach from his wheelchair in Dori’s office, I am on hand, I lean down and retrieve both happily. If the phone rings and Dori cannot reach it, I do an “up” and get it. Closing doors and opening Dori’s desk drawers for her helps her move about and locate items independently. None of this would be possible without me and my amazing nose as well as mouth tugging technique.

I assist Dori in getting her jacket off in five minutes which used to take her an hour. In the bathroom stall, I assist Dori in transferring to the commode. The little things I do mean the most to her as well as the consumers who visit. Wagging my tail, I do a “say hello.” My presence has helped make others feel comfortable and shown them independence comes in many forms, even a handsome, intelligent, Yellow Labrador, like me.

Retrieving papers Dori drops in the copy room.

Helping Dori get her lunch by tugging open the refrigerator.

Break-Time!

Touching the access button when Dori leaves.

In the month of August, Casper and I attended both the one week beginner and advanced dog training camps for youth in our area. What we took away from the experience was lasting memories and images that will affect our future experiences as well as interactions with young people in our community. Seeing the jubilant faces the first day of camp was spell-binding. To know they were so enthused to be working with the dogs was catchy. It reminded me of when I first brought Casper home, the joy that filled the room set the positive tone for the next two weeks. The most uplifting part of this camp to me is how diverse and integrated each activity was for the campers. When I was young, if you wanted to go to a camp, it was assumed you would only attend one for those with disabilities. Instead, this camp encourages people of varying abilities to work together as a team with service dogs as well as each other to grow, teach, learn, and succeed.

To understand how a dog’s mind works, the campers participated in sessions where they had to give directions to each other to make a sandwich. What they learned is if you are not precise, then your partner doesn’t understand what you’re asking them to do. Communication is instrumental, especially when working with animals, as they communicate with their bodies and look to the human for direction. Then, the campers were taught cues to help them communicate with their canine partner. Each got to practice and participate with a dog in training. This means campers got to put into effect what they were learning through hands-on activities daily and help to train a potential service dog in the process.

Rebecca and AJ

As a client who received a service dog from PAALS this past year, I see how valuable this opportunity is for campers as well as the dogs in training!! They learn so much and build leadership skills at the same time. I feel so privileged that Casper and I had the chance to participate in this amazing camp!! If you ever wonder what influences young people the most, it is experiences that teach them to appreciate the abilities in themselves and others around them! Casper was a dog in training in last year’s camp, for that I will be thankful because it made him a better partner. Thanks to PAALS for being such great teachers and innovators through this wonderful camp!

“A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.”
– Henry Brooks Adams

Presented by Chapin Community Theatre
8:00 p.m.
Harbison Theatre at Midlands Technical College
7300 College Street, Irmo, SC 29063
General Admission Tickets – $5.00

100 percent of the ticket price will support PAALS programs and services. Advance tickets available below or by calling (803) 788-7063. Limited seats available.

Synopsis: Known on television as The Waltons, they’re called The Spencers in the original book, which is how they’re named here. The time is the Great Depression and the large Spencer family, living at the foot of a Virginia mountain, is struggling hard just to survive. With his father having to take the only available job a long way from home, Clay-Boy is stuck with unusual responsibility for his brothers and sisters. Just reaching manhood, Clay-Boy has a secret yearning that’s quite extraordinary for the practical, earth-bound community in which he lives. He wants to write! Such foolishness is utterly foreign to his hardworking father, who tells him to prepare to become a responsible man—to build a home and raise a family. Clay-Boy could explode with frustration at his inability to communicate with this man that he admires most. He is also worried because his father is already long overdue in getting home. In the climax, the father makes it—just as they are in despair about him. He brings a special gift for his son, a gift that reveals unexpected understanding and the strength of a loving family.

For more information about Chapin Community Theatre visit www.chapintheatre.org.