Liberty kicked off National Reading Month with a bang at a local Read Across America Day Celebration on March 1. The event was organized by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Hinesville Alumnae Chapter in partnership with Fort Stewart Family Homes to entertain and encourage young students to read and understand how reading can take them anywhere in the world

Held at the Liberty County Performing Arts Center, nearly 300 students and parents enjoyed story time with Savannah Balloons and a magic show with Magic Marc. The night ended with a Cat in the Hat party complete with photos, books, green eggs and ham, and other Seuss treats.

The sorority members chose to honor Read Across America as part of its commitment to educational development and economic development. They partnered with local businesses and a young author to celebrate the National Education Association event.

"We were able to provide this fun-filled event free of charge to every boy and girl who attended and most importantly we supported and spotlighted Bianca Pendleton, a fifth grader at Taylor Creek Elementary who has written a book and is a children’s author. She was able to tell the audience about herself and sell copies of her book," Petula Gomillion, chapter president, said. "We also showcased Cat in the Hat for picture taking with every child who wanted to take a picture. We are thankful to our supporters, like Joe Ford at South Georgia Bank and private donors for donating new or slightly used children books to ensure that every child left our event with at least one book."

The Hinesville Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority provides programs in Liberty, Long, Bryan and Wayne counties. The organization is accepting applications for its Annie B. Givens scholarship for high school seniors, planning its Historical Black College and University college tour on April 5-7 and promoting its second annual Charity Golf Tournament for Autism Awareness on April 21 as part of its continuing efforts to support education.

To learn more about the Hinesville Alumnae Chapter and upcoming events, visit www.hinesvillealumnae.com or follow Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Hinesville Alumnae Chapter on social media.