Summer Reading Program has happy ending

By Debbie Hong (USAG-Yongsan)August 4, 2009

Yongsan Summer Reading Program has happy ending
Joanne Sharp, wife of U.S. Forces Korea Commander Gen. Walter Sharp (left) reads to children during at the Yongsan Library July 24 on the last day of the Summer Reading Program. According to the program's managers, more than 600 children participated... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

<strong>YONGSAN GARRISON, Republic of Korea</strong> - More than 100 parents and children gathered July 24 at the Yongsan Library to celebrate the final day of the 2009 Summer Reading Program.

The Summer Reading Program began June 24 to help children develop a habit of reading good books, accumulate knowledge and become creative in arts and school through weekly activities. It also provided learning opportunities for children during summer vacation.

Library Director Dr. Esther Kim expressed her gratitude to parents for bringing their children to the family program.

"During the six-week-long program, more than 600 children have come to the library to read and interact with the other kids," she said. "It is very fulfilling to help children to have a habit of reading and motivate kids to read voluntarily."

Kim said this year's cultural experience programs helped both younger and older kids enjoy the program. "As Joanne Sharp said, reading can give imagination, and through reading, we can experience and go anywhere," she said.

Joanne Sharp read Mark's Messy "Room" by Geraldine Elschner and "The Curious Garden" by Peter Brown.

"At the kick-off party, when U.S. Forces Korea Commander General Walter Sharp came, I hoped that would influence the kids to think 'I want to be a leader too,'" Kim said. "And today, kids listening to Mrs. Sharp read to them, that's something influential."

Eleven-year-old Daniel Murray, who participated in the program through his mother's recommendation, said he finished four books and wishes to participate again next year. "I have learned to like books and during the program, I have shared book stories with my brothers," he said.

Home school student Deena Postol has participated in every summer reading program event this year and made new friends. "I finished more than ten books, and most of all, I want to recommend an adventure fiction book titled, 'The Mysterious Benedict Society.'"

Kim, who has participated in five consecutive Summer Reading Programs, feels the proudest when she sees kids enjoy reading books and wishes the best for them. "I prayed quietly that the children be successful U.S. citizens and be somebody who can share with others," she said.

United States Army Garrison-Yongsan Commander Col. Dave Hall explained how the program ties back into the Army Family Covenant. "We are committed to building a partnership with Army Families that enhances their strength and resilience," he said. "This is another example of how we take care of each other and build stronger families, and a stronger Army."

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