Senate Resolution 465--Designating March 3, 2008, as "Read Across America Day"

Floor Speech

SENATE RESOLUTION 465--DESIGNATING MARCH 3, 2008, AS ``READ ACROSS AMERICA DAY'' -- (Senate - February 29, 2008)

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

S. Res. 465

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, E arly 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 3 to celebrate reading and the birth of Theodor Geisel, also known as Dr. Seuss: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Senate--

(1) designates March 3, 2008, 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 11th 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 ceremoni es and activities.

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