March 25, 2014
Warriors Guard Steve Blake And Ross Stores Host Reading Rally In San Jose March 21
Golden State Warriors guard Steve Blake and Ross Stores teamed up to host a Read To Achieve Reading Rally for 300 students at San Jose’s Majestic Way Elementary School after school on Friday, March 21. Blake and the students celebrated the birthday of beloved children’s literary icon Dr. Seuss by reading two of his most popular works, The Cat in the Hat and Green Eggs and Ham.
“It’s a pleasure to spend time with all of these kids and see the enthusiasm they have for one of my favorite childhood authors,” said Blake.
Wearing tall red-and-white striped hats like the story’s feline character, the students sat and listened to Blake and Warriors Hype Man Franco Finn read aloud the Dr. Seuss classic, Cat in the Hat. Many students were able to sit between the two on-stage and read a page from the book aloud.
“Today, Steve and the Warriors made reading a fun, interactive activity and helped foster a love of learning for the students,” said Ross Stores Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability Director Leslie Oestreicher.
Blake also addressed the children in attendance and discussed his favorite books and how reading is not only something he does for fun, but it also makes him a better basketball player.
“I read about basketball and about how to get better and also read scouting reports to learn about my opponent before a game,” said Blake.
Joined by Warrior Girls Karlee and Kimberly, the Warriors provided the students a new blue Read To Achieve t-shirt and as well as a new book for them to take home and enjoy.
“Steve, the Warriors and Ross Stores have been so wonderful in sharing their time, planning and resources to put on a great reading rally and to help spread the message about reading every day for school and for fun,” said Majestic Way Elementary School Principal Mya Duong.
Before leaving, the Warriors and Ross Stores had a special surprise for the students. Everyone in attendance was also able to enjoy a piece of cake to celebrate the birthday of Dr. Seuss.
“It was a special experience to put a smile on the kids’ faces and to make their school days a little brighter by participating in an event like this,” said Blake.
This is the 12th season the Warriors and Ross Stores have partnered for Read to Achieve to highlight to youth the importance of reading, developing their imaginations and applying themselves academically.