TodayBoy wins writing award
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Article RatingA Carlisle first grader's essay about the importance of reading took the top prize in a regional writing contest.
Jarek Garcia, 6, of Carlisle Barracks, took first place in the kindergarten and first grade category.
"He was very excited and very happy" to learn about the award, says his mother, Gaylene Logan.
His stepfather, Lt. Col. Arthur Logan, is a student at the U.S. Army War College.
The contest sponsor, American Literacy Corp., invited Jarek and other award winners to attend a celebration party at 2 p.m. Sunday in Harrisburg East Mall. The winners will be asked to read their essays during the celebration.
The party was pushed back a day because of the snow storm.
Jarek spends about an hour each day reading "no matter how tired he is," Gaylene Logan says.
"He enjoys reading," she says, adding he's learned to appreciate reading by watching his parents, who are also avid readers.
His opportunity to participate in the contest was offered through his school, Hamilton Elementary in Carlisle.
American Literacy Corp. also honored other students throughout central Pennsylvania.
The following Cumberland County students were among the award-winners:
* Taylor Sudders, Shippensburg, first place in the second and third grade category.
* Sophie Hawley, Shippensburg, honorable mention.
* Michael Joseph Wilson, Camp Hill, honorable mention.
First place winners will receive a gold star ornament, while second place winners will receive a silver star ornament.
Sunday's celebration party will feature "a free gift for the first 100 kids" who arrive and "free milk and cookies for everyone."
But American Literacy Corp. Executive Director Floyd Stokes says the true rewards of the program are priceless.
"Not only are the children exploring the importance of reading, but they are developing their writing skills as well," says Stokes, also known as Supereader. "These are skills that can make them better students and help them in their future careers."
