Dear Friends,
I’m hitting pause here for just a few quick announcements, with a heartfelt appreciation for all those who read and support my ongoing project, in this gradual segue from teaching high school for over 25 years to writing full-time. . . .
The ongoing sympathetic feedback from my last piece will likely inspire a short follow-up regarding the tragic loss of an old friend, Jeff Harris. I will try to include a couple of more details about his final days and weeks if and when they can be verified, as difficult as this remains.
For the first time in my modest publishing career, I’m usually writing these posts without an editor, which is admittedly challenging. Occasionally, I do go back and make corrections, even if just a minor typo. A reader would have to double-click the link for the updated version (and thanks to anyone noticing any errors).
I really encourage newer subscribers to explore the articles, history, poetry and play excerpts still available in my Substack archive, which of course will continue throughout the next year and beyond (knuckles knocking on wood).
For 2024, also expect more interviews — including special podcasts — from colleagues, writers, musicians, artists and related educators in the field. Part of the joy in doing all this involves the observations and commentary from various people I respect — who I’ve often had the pleasure of joining forces with even when hampered by a lack of resources or recognition.
So, I’m obviously not doing this for the money, yet I am extra grateful for those who help sustain this labor of love with their paid subscriptions. Without you, a disorganized assortment of scattered notes and unfinished journals would just be rotting away in a classroom closet or basement desk.
To everyone,
Thank you again &
Happy New Year. (!)
William (Bill) R. Boyer
Happy New Year!