[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 17 (Tuesday, February 26, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S1198]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          READ ACROSS AMERICA

  Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, since 1998, Americans have celebrated 
``Read Across America'' in March to honor Dr. Seuss' birthday. Millions 
of Americans take part in this nationwide effort to promote reading 
among our children while paying tribute to Dr. Seuss' great legacy.
  It is hard to imagine our childhoods without the delightful books of 
Dr. Seuss. Such classics as ``The Cat in the Hat and Green Eggs and 
Ham'' taught us life lessons we will never forget. My personal favorite 
is ``Oh, the Places You'll Go!'' because it encourages children to 
reach for their dreams. I loved reading the book to my children, and 
now read it to my grandson. I also enjoy reading it to students while 
visiting schools in California.
  Schools throughout the Nation hold special events to celebrate ``Read 
Across America.'' This year, schools plan to have breakfasts of green 
eggs and ham, reading relays, birthday parties for Dr. Seuss, choral 
readings and museum exhibits. Celebrities and elected officials will 
join in the fun by reading books to children.
  ``Read Across America'' is a day to celebrate the joy of reading and 
a return to our childhood, but it also provides an opportunity to 
address a very important issue: children's literacy in the United 
States. It has been proven that if children read more at home, they 
will do better at school. ``Read Across America'' can help prepare our 
children for success.
  I take great pride in celebrating the fifth anniversary of the 
National Education Association's ``Read Across America.'' Books 
introduce children to a wealth of knowledge and a world of imagination. 
Last year, celebrations took place in every State in the Nation, 
involving more than 35 million people. This year, NEA expects an even 
bigger turnout.
  I extend my best wishes to participating schools, and encourage all 
Americans to get involved in this wonderful celebration of reading.

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