Valley Stream, NY, August 22, 2011 - With a focus on promoting reading and literacy, the New York Knicks and Power to Learn brought the Knicks Read to Achieve @powertolearn.com 2011 Summer Reading Program, presented by Kia Motors to the Henry Waldinger Memorial Library in an event that blended story-time and all-star athletics. Kia Motors is the Official Vehicle of the New York Knicks.
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At the event, which blended story-time and all-star athletics, Mamie Eng, Library Director introduced Cablevision's Director of Education Evelyn Cruise, who spoke to the children, parents and attending guests about the importance of reading. Senator Dean Skelos and former NBA superstar John Starks, who hit more than 1,000 three-pointers in his career, also spoke about literacy and achievement. Senator Skelos and Starks then read aloud from Graham Salisbury's popular book, Calvin Coconut: Trouble Magnet. Following the read-along, the children took part in an interactive "Knicks Postcard Club" quiz about the book to test their comprehension skills. They then qualified for a raffle to earn exciting Knicks and Power to Learn prizes, were able to get John Starks' autograph on their copy of the book, and afterwards were treated to a visit by the Knicks Groove Truck and Street Team, engaging in outdoor basketball-themed activities.
"Statistics point to the disappointing loss of learning that takes place during the summer months when young people are out of school," said Senator Skelos. "This is what researchers refer to as the 'summer slide.' The children here today are sure to benefit from this positive learning experience that is aimed at encouraging school children to read during the summer, to use the library, and to better appreciate the importance of literacy."
Henry Waldinger Memorial Library Director Eng, noted, "The long days of summer are the perfect time for children to discover the joys of reading. We are so pleased to be part of this Cablevision event that provides a means for children to maintain their reading proficiency."
"With a firm belief that literacy is an essential ingredient for success, Kia Motors is pleased to present the Knicks Read to Achieve @powertolearn.com Summer Reading Event for the fifth consecutive year," said Tim Chaney, director, marketing communications, KMA. "Motivating children to read through events such as this has the potential to open the door to lifelong achievement."
