Murphy – Third-grade students from Peachtree Elementary School filled a room at city hall on Feb. 27 with their energy and smiling faces. Each one ready to listen to stories as part of the Read Across America kick-off program.
Mayor Tim Radford began by thanking and introducing each guest and asking each youngster to introduce themselves individually. He introduced author Randy Mazie, who read from his children’s poetry book titled Itches Inside My Head.
“I love poetry and playing with words. I love writing for children and seeing the smiles on their faces and their laughter. It makes me feel like I’ve contributed to their enjoyment of their childhood,” Mazie said.
The kids listened intently to Mazie’s fun and captivating poetry while following along in their copy of the illustrated tales. The author engaged with the children by asking questions and explaining ideas as he went along.
The youngsters had the opportunity to ask questions and tell of their own thoughts and ideas about reading.
After the poems were read, children were treated to refreshments and brightly colored bags of treats along with coloring pages and a Rotary Club 4-Way Test bookmark that serves as a tool for promoting integrity. The test asks four questions:
1: Is it the truth?
2: Is it fair to all concerned?
3: Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
4: Will it be beneficial to all concerned?
Guest speaker Suzi Perkins stood and gave an example of a conversation between several people in which the absent person was unfairly spoken about with lies and criticism.
Perkins explained why the 4-Way Test a is important to recall.
“Reading is the foundation for everything we do, and there’s no better way to spark that passion than with a great story. We had a blast hosting the third-graders from Peachtree Elementary for our Read Across America kickoff at city hall,” Radford said. “Their energy was contagious, and I hope the event inspired those young minds to see every book as a new adventure and a doorway to their future. I’m grateful to those who made it all possible.”
Read Across America encourages reading, improves literacy skills and creates lifelong readers by making books accessible and enjoyable.
“I liked how we introduced ourselves. They gave us some stuff and that was really kind. I like to read like my mom,” Brooklyn Cunningham said.
Matt Helms sponsored the books and gift bags for the event, while Nancy Helms provided the candy.