The Pierce Chamber of Commerce’s first-ever Splash Into Reading event took place Saturday, June 14. The continuation of a literacy event she sponsored in her days as a local business owner, Chamber Executive Director Christi Pitts gathered help from volunteers, local entrepreneurs and members of the chamber's Legacy Leadership Academy to help promote books and reading, especially to local families with young children.
There were both indoor and outdoor activities, which was a sign of foresight. A sudden thunderstorm chased the fun and food (hot dogs, chips and drinks) inside. Before the rain, outdoor activities consisted of face painting, fishing for prizes, hitting targets with water guns and exploring two fire engines with the help of the Blackshear Fire Department. Indoor activities included coloring pictures, customizing cupcakes and a special story time with former librarian Charles Eames.
After listening to Eames read from a selection of storybooks, kids were invited to select a book for themselves to keep and take home from a table piled high with selections. Books available to take home ranged from pre-school reading levels all the way up to a few suitable for mom and dad.
Most present counted the event a success in spite of being cut short by the weather. Chamber entrepreneurs, members without brick and mortar locations, assisting with the literacy event included Leonard's Freeze Dried Candy, Three Boys Bakery and Travelmotion.
Jenella Rheem with daughters (l-r) Charlee and Chloe Rheem pause for a picture after winning some prizes at the outdoor activities.
PCHS class officers and members of the chamber’s Legacy Leadership Academy (l-r) Kallye Gay and Daisy Cruz both volunteered to work at the event’s outside activities.
In out of the heat, Charles Eames reads ‘I’m the Biggest Thing in the Ocean’ to some young listeners before they pick out their free books.
Chamber Executive Director and event founder, Christi Pitts.
Out in the heat, Executive Director of Pierce County Family Connection Stephanie Bell lends her artistic talents to the face painting station.
