CHL Mississippi RiverKings

RiverKings Will Give First Book MidSouth A Nice Read on Thursday

Published on January 13, 2004 under Central Hockey League (CHL)
Mississippi RiverKings News Release


SOUTHAVEN, Miss.—The Memphis RiverKings hope to flood their arena with books for needy children this Thursday, Jan. 15, when the team spotlights First Book MidSouth as the featured non-profit group of the night during their 7:05 p.m. game against the Wichita Thunder.

The ‘Kings are offering a $2 discount on an adult ticket in the green section if someone brings in a new book as a donation. First Book will raffle off a "Basket of Books" from David Kidd Booksellers, including a "Read Teddy" from Build-A-Bear, and a $50 gift certificate to Baskin Robbins during the game. Cost for the each raffle ticket is $1.

First Book provides books to underprivileged children who otherwise might never possess a book of their very own. The organization's mission is to provide the "first book" of many in a child's personal collection, with the hope of spurring them on to a great love of literacy and books.

"I think you need to read to get through life," First Book MidSouth Co-Chair Eileen Saunders said. "There are many programs that just hand books to kids and walk away. Our books are distributed through programs like daycares and before and after–school programs that are held accountable for teaching the kids to read in addition to supplying them with books. The books go home to the kid's house, where the programs encourage parents to get involved as well."

Any program serving low-income children can apply for a grant to get books through First Book, Saunders said.

"We fulfill cash grants to be used to buy books, which cost us just $2.50 from major publishers that support us," she said. "We also work with other organizations to conduct book drives."

To apply for a book through First Book, check out their website at www.firstbook.org, or contact Saunders at 662-404-0816. For more information about RiverKings games or work with non-profits and charities, call 662-342-1755.

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Central Hockey League Stories from January 13, 2004


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