[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 87 (Thursday, June 13, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1088]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 CELEBRITY READ PROGRAM A GREAT SUCCESS

                                 ______


                          HON. DONALD M. PAYNE

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 13, 1996

  Mr. PAYNE of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to have the 
opportunity to invite my colleagues to join with me in congratulating 
and thanking the United Way of Essex and West Hudson. The United Way 
held their annual Celebrity Read Program which encourages inner-city 
youth to broaden their horizons and have hope for their futures. The 
program asks adults, both famous and not so famous, to attend 
classrooms and read passages from their favorite book about the 
accomplishments of people of color.
  This year's program had a phenomenal level of participation, with 
twice as many reading volunteers as last year. Their words of 
inspiration touched the lives of more than 10,000 children. Among the 
more well-known participants were news reporters; Terrie Williams and 
Reggie Harris and former New York Giants football player, Harry Carson. 
One of the aspects of the program is that their definition of celebrity 
includes local business people, entrepreneurs, and everyday citizens 
from the community. This program makes it possible for individuals to 
take part in their community, share their wealth of knowledge and 
experience, and be a source of inspiration to our inner-city youth.
  It is wonderful to see that this outstanding program has not just 
continued but grown since last year. I urge other communities, 
nationwide, to follow their lead and motivate children with programs 
such as this one. The Celebrity Read Program is one that should take 
place in as many cities as possible. I would also like to extend a most 
sincere thank you to the Celebrity Read Program and to the 400 
celebrity readers for taking the time to interact with the leaders of 
the next generation. We should celebrate children for they are our 
greatest resource.
  Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for allowing me this opportunity to share 
with my colleagues some of the exciting events that are taking place in 
the 10th Congressional District of New Jersey to ensure our future.

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