FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Sept. 2, 2014
CELEBRATE LITERACY WITH FREE ENTRY TO STATE PARKS ON SEPT. 8
~September is Literacy Month at Florida State Parks~
 TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Florida
Park Service is celebrating National Literacy Month with special events at
state parks. The month will be celebrated in conjunction with
International Literacy Day on Monday, Sept. 8 and National Library Card Signup
Month.
Any state park visitor who brings a library card, a library book or
who donates a new or gently used family friendly book will receive free*
entrance in honor of International Literacy Day on Monday, Sept. 8. (*This offer does not include Skyway Fishing Pier State Park)
"Literacy is very important for people of all ages,"
said Florida Park Service Director Donald Forgione. "We are excited to
celebrate reading and provide the best spots in the state to curl up with a
good book to enjoy nature and the great outdoors."
The Florida Park Service, Department of Education and Department
of State have joined together to stress the importance of literacy for all
ages. This partnership follows the summertime activities of Florida’s First
Lady Ann Scott, who encourages children to read through her Summer Literacy
Adventure.
“Reading is one of the most important skills we can teach our
children,” said Education Commissioner Pam Stewart. “Reading is the foundation
for learning and helps students become successful in college, career and life.
Through reading, students discover a whole new world of fun and adventure. I
encourage parents and students to read together in one of Florida’s beautiful
state parks in celebration of National Literacy Month.”
More than 15 events are scheduled across Florida in state parks during September, providing children with the opportunity to participate in activities
that emphasize the importance of literacy. Book fairs are being held to provide opportunities for more children to get their library cards.
Children will hear stories, read from a variety of books and partake in outdoor
crafts and activities.
Activities and crafts will include adventure walks, games and
prizes. Magic and the Gentle Carousel Therapy Horses will give performances of
characters from their favorite books at O'Leno State Park in High Springs on
Sept. 6. Children can also learn what it was like to be an African child in
1738 near St. Augustine and make a beaded necklace or bracelet on Sept. 27 at Fort
Mose Historic State Park.
For a complete list of Literacy Month activities at Florida State Parks, click here.
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