[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 31 (Monday, February 23, 2009)]
[Senate]
[Page S2371]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   SENATE RESOLUTION 52--DESIGNATING MARCH 2, 2009, AS ``READ ACROSS 
                             AMERICA DAY''

  Mr. REED (for himself and Ms. Collins) submitted the following 
resolution; which was considered and agreed to:

                               S. Res. 52

       Whereas reading is a basic requirement for quality 
     education and professional success, and is a source of 
     pleasure throughout life;
       Whereas the people of the United States must be able to 
     read if the United States is to remain competitive in the 
     global economy;
       Whereas Congress, through the No Child Left Behind Act of 
     2001 (Public Law 107-110) and the Reading First, Early 
     Reading First, and Improving Literacy Through School 
     Libraries programs, has placed great emphasis on reading 
     intervention and providing additional resources for reading 
     assistance; and
       Whereas more than 50 national organizations concerned about 
     reading and education have joined with the National Education 
     Association to use March 2, the anniversary of the birth of 
     Theodor Geisel, also known as Dr. Seuss, to celebrate 
     reading: Now, therefore, be it
       Resolved, That the Senate--
       (1) designates March 2, 2009, as ``Read Across America 
     Day'';
       (2) honors Theodor Geisel, also known as Dr. Seuss, for his 
     success in encouraging children to discover the joy of 
     reading;
       (3) honors the 12th anniversary of Read Across America Day;
       (4) encourages parents to read with their children for at 
     least 30 minutes on Read Across America Day in honor of the 
     commitment of the Senate to building a Nation of readers; and
       (5) encourages the people of the United States to observe 
     the day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

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