The Humber Literacy Council chose to promote International Literacy Day through the local newspapers this year. Our local celebrity, Bud Murrin, winner of two literacy awards, was featured in the Humber Log on International Literacy Day as well as co-chair of the Council, Maureen Kennedy, who explained the Laubach Way to Reading. Also featured in the same issue was Laubach Literacy of Canada's field worker for Newfoundland, Isabella Fry, who also was interviewed on KIXX Country radio. Finally, Paula Power, an executive member and co-ordinator of the Learning Centre, addressed the Corner Brook Rotary Club during that week on the effects of literacy.

Another first occurred on International Literacy Day this year. 1999 marks the fifth year of the Books for Babies program. The children who were registered in the first year of the program started kindergarten September 8, 1999 on International Literacy Day. The Newfoundland Herald featured a story on the program in it's magazine this week.

L to R; Dr. William Fagan, Chair, Mr. John Poirer, Director, and Ms. Lucy Stoyles, Director, along with Ms. Judy Foote, Minister of Education.

Once again the Literacy Development Council of Newfoundland and Labrador promoted International Literacy Day (September 8) and September as International Literacy Month. Since 1967 the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has celebrated International Literacy Day.

The Literacy Development Council and staff recognizes the contribution of all those individuals and organizations involved in the literacy movement in Newfoundland and Labrador. We appreciate the efforts of hundreds of literacy volunteers, the public and private colleges, our schools, community - based organizations, labour organizations, and companies involved in workplace literacy who provide both their time and expertise to assist many hundreds of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians in improving their reading and writing skills.

Most important of all, the Council congratulates all those learners who come forward in an effort to improve their reading and writing skills. On September 8, 1999 the Minister of Education, Judy Foote signed a Proclamation declaring International Literacy Day/Month. Attending the signing were members of the Literacy Development Council of Newfoundland and Labrador.