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Oh The Things We Could Think
Local School Celebrates "Read Across America"
By Kim Fink
Who is Theodor Geisel? Is the name easily recognizable to you?
If you said no, you're certainly not alone. Many people would agree that the name doesn't ring any bells unless of course you were told that he was an author who commonly used the pen name Dr. Seuss.
Dr. Seuss is a name that can bring a smile to the face of any man, woman or child who has ever had the pleasure of enjoying one of his books. Seuss, who felt that children's early reader books were "pallid and idiotic," created a series of rhyming books that delighted children and thrilled parents, setting the standard in creative writing for the young child.
So who better to celebrate on his March 2 birthday but the man who brought the love of reading to so many children with his rhythmic books perfect for little minds?
"Read Across America" is the annual celebration of Dr. Seuss and is recognized by elementary schools throughout the United States.
Locally, Manchester and Whiting schools held week long events to reinforce the love of learning with literature based programs.
"We had a full day celebration here," said coordinator and fifth grade teacher Ms. Buhnerkemper of Whiting Elementary School. "We began the day with guest readers from our town council. Kenneth Vanderziel, Brendan Weiner and Frederick Trutkoff were all kind enough to donate their time and read to the children. Even the mayor came by for a visit."
Guest readers chose their own books and came ready to entertain.
"Not everyone read Dr. Seuss, but all stories were intended to get the children excited about reading," added Buhnerkemper.
After the special guests departed, the classes were divided by age and the older children read their favorite stories to the younger pupils.
Snacks, donated by Manchester ShopRite, added to the fun.
"We were so surprised," said one kindergarten student. "We had cupcakes and juice boxes. It was a fun day of story-time. I love Dr. Seuss books. They are very funny."
The day concluded with movies "Mouse And The Motorcycle" and of course "The Cat In The Hat."
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