MARCH 3, 2005

Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land will visit with a class of fourth-grade students at Hamilton Elementary School at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 8 to share the joy of reading as part of the National Education Association’s "Read Across America" campaign.

About 24 students in Sharon Koeman’s class will meet with Land, who was invited to the school at the request of the children. Hamilton Elementary School is at 3472 M-40, Hamilton.

"It’s always a treat to meet with young people," Land said. "It’s also extremely important to encourage children to read. Reading truly is a gateway to the world. I’m looking forward to chatting with these students and finding out what’s on their minds."

Land will read "America is . . ." by Louise Borden, a beautifully written and illustrated story about what makes America special. Joining Land will be the famous Cat in the Hat, one of the most beloved Dr. Seuss characters.

"Read Across America" is a literacy campaign calling for children everywhere to be in the company of a book. Initially created as a one-day event to celebrate reading on Dr. Seuss' birthday, March 2, "Read Across America" has grown into a nationwide initiative that promotes reading every day.