Bronx, NY, August 1, 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 Kingsbridge Branch Library in the Bronx 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, Cablevision's VP of Education Trent Anderson explained the program and spoke to the children, parents and attending guests about the importance of reading.  Senator Gustavo Rivera, representatives from Congressman Eliot Engel's office, and former NBA superstar John Starks, who hit more than 1,000 three-pointers in his career, also spoke about literacy and achievement.  Senator Rivera 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. 

"I applaud Cablevision, the New York Knicks and Kia Motors for today's innovative program that helps promote reading by making it fun and interesting," said Congressman Engel.  "As a former teacher I believe that no skill is more crucial to the future of a child than literacy.  It is not only vital to succeeding in school and in life, but also strengthens self confidence and fosters creativity."

Branch Manager Simmons noted, "We are thrilled to be part of this exciting program from Cablevision that instills a love of literature in students from an early age. I am sure that each of the children present will be motivated to open a book and read this summer." 

"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 Program for the fifth consecutive year," said Tim Chaney, director, marketing communications, KMA.  "Motivating children to read through programs such as this has the potential to open the door to lifelong achievement."