With those words, the scene was set in one of the most beloved children’s books of all time, Dr. Seuss’ "The Cat In The Hat". What followed next for two young children was a fun-filled adventure, led by one magical cat.

A similar scene took place at Beatties Ford Road Library in Charlotte on Tuesday, March 22. With storm clouds brewing outside, the Charlotte Bobcats gathered indoors to host a Read To Achieve Reading Timeout.

Sixty kids from the surrounding neighborhood were invited to attend the event, which was held to celebrate the birthday of Dr. Seuss. The special guests at the event included Bobcats players Matt Carroll, Jason Kapono, Brevin Knight and Kareem Rush, as well as Bobcats mascot Rufus Lynx. WJZY UPN46 on-air personality India Lucas also joined in the festivities, serving as the emcee for the event.

“I love doing it,” said Lucas, who is a member of the Bobcats All-Star Reading Team. “I love being able to come out and interact with the kids . It’s great to see their eyes light up when I introduce the Bobcats players or Rufus Lynx.”

Following introductions by Lucas, the Bobcats players shared with the kids the story of "The Cat In The Hat". The kids sat enthralled as they heard about the cat, who along with his accomplices, Thing 1 and Thing 2, turned a boring afternoon into one messy yet entertaining escapade.

In addition to hearing the story, the kids were also given the opportunity to ask the Bobcats players questions.

“I read all the time,” answered guard Kareem Rush when asked about how often he reads. “It’s something I do every day.”

The Bobcats players all realize how important it is to be active in the community and stress the importance of education to kids.

“Reading is definitely a number one concern,” said guard Brevin Knight. “To get anywhere, education is key. We all don’t get the opportunity to play sports professionally. It’s important to have something to fall back on. Events like this help kids see that there are more important things than just sports.”

While the message delivered to the kids at the reading timeout was one of great importance, the event was also all about having a good time, and what birthday party would be complete without cake?

Following the reading timeout, the kids were treated to cupcakes and drinks as well as an autograph session with the players. The kids couldn’t contain their excitement as they got to meet the Bobcats up close and personal.

“We were excited to have the Bobcats come,” said Robert and Rashon, two of the kids in attendance. “It was good. We like to watch the Bobcats play.”

“This is just fun,” said Knight of the event. “It gives kids the chance to see and interact with us and it shows them that we appreciate their support.”

Guard Matt Carroll also enjoyed the time he was able to spend with the kids. “I think this is one of the most special things about playing in the NBA,” he said. “Kids look up to you and you can have such a positive effect on their lives. Besides playing, coming out and interacting with kids is one of my favorite things about being an NBA player.”

Having the event was also an exciting opportunity for the Beatties Ford Road Library and the surrounding community.

“This is a big deal for us. A lot of our kids like athletics and are in need of good role models,” said David Sniffin, the information services manager at the library. “We are located in a depressed area where often times not a lot of happy things take place. This event has been great. The kids really enjoy this and it will have a positive impact. It shows the kids that pro athletes read and that it is important to gain an education.”

By: Malinda Murray, BobcatsBasketball.com