Education minister celebrates Family Literacy Day

On January 27, Education Minister John Ottenheimer will celebrate Family Literacy Day 2004 by participating in a number of events celebrating literacy and the joy of reading.

At 2:00 p.m., Minister Ottenheimer will join the Brighter Futures Coalition at Holy Cross Elementary in St. John's to engage in reading time with young children. The coalition has invited local personalities to join them in story-telling, reading circles and art activities throughout the afternoon. At 4:30 p.m., the minister will be in the Centre Court, Avalon Mall, to participate in a book reading, sponsored by the Open Books Literacy Council, Laubach - St. John's.

"There is no greater gift than reading and it is something we should celebrate everyday, not just on Family Literacy Day," said Minister Ottenheimer. "However, this day reminds us to be thankful for the gift of literacy. Reading is a pleasure to be enjoyed by people of all ages. I encourage young and old alike to pick up a book or magazine, any time, any place, and read. This is why the Department of Education supports lifelong learning and with it the joys associated with the written word. I hope everyone takes a moment tomorrow, gets together with family, and shares the joy of reading. It is important to remember that children who are avid readers become better thinkers and writers. They also usually do better in school and throughout their lives."

Created by ABC CANADA Literacy Foundation in 1999, Family Literacy Day (FLD) is a national initiative that promotes the importance of reading and learning together as a family. Every year on January 27, families and communities across Canada celebrate this day at literacy-themed events coordinated by literacy organizations, schools and libraries. This year's honorary chair is Robert Munsch, a Canadian children's author.

Media contact: Lynn Salter, Communications, (709) 729-0048

2004 01 26                                        3:55 p.m.