Dr. Seuss's work celebrated at Sunman Elementary
Governor Kernan reads to Sunman kindergartners
Wanda English Burnett - Editor

Gov. Joe Kernan joined 36 kindergarteners at Sunman Elementary School to mark the 100th birthday of Dr. Seuss, and also took the opportunity to talk with fourth graders currently studying Indiana history.

Recognizing the value of the books written by Dr. Seuss, Sunman Elementary Principal Cindy Morton has declared March 1-5, Dr. Seuss Week at the school.

"Reading is the foundation of our kids' educational and personal success," Kernan said. "It's important that all of us take time to read with our children, especially during their early years. It's an experience that strengthens our relationships, and just as important, the skills they need later in life."

Students will hear from a variety of readers from the community this week, mirroring the variety of words depicted in the work of the Pulitzer Prize author.

The rhyming words of Dr. Seuss (Theodor Seuss Geisel) have thrilled children of all ages since they were put on paper by Vanguard Press in 1937.

It's a good thing that Dr. Seuss didn't give up on the first try to get his first book published. He didn't give up on the second or third try either. Matter of fact, 27 publishers rejected his first book in the early '30s.

Using rhyming text combined with illustrations, Geisel (Dr. Seuss) authored 44 books for children, introducing the joys of reading saying, "Children want the same things we want...to laugh, to be challenged, to be entertained and delighted."

Geisel was honored with a Pulitzer Prize in 1984 "for his special contribution of nearly half a century to the education and enjoyment of America's children and their parents."

In 1990, Geisel's last book "Oh, the Places You'll Go," was introduced and the best seller is still purchased often today as a graduation gift.

Geisel's work appealed to children's imaginations and senses of humor. Adults enjoy reading the books, perhaps recapturing their imagination and sense of humor as well.

Seuss commemorated on postage stamp

Geisel was born March 2, 1904,
in Springfield, MA. To commemorate the 100th anniversary of his birth, the U.S. Postal Service dedicated the Theodor Seuss Geisel Commemorative Postage Stamp on March 2, in La Jolla, CA. The stamp then went on sale March 3, around the nation.
The 100th customer at the Versailles Post Office on Wednesday, March 3 received a free sheet of the Dr. Seuss stamps.

"The Theodor Seuss Geisel stamp calls attention to the very unique and creative process of one of the world's most beloved authors," said Angelo Wider, Manager, Finance Administrator for the Postal Service, who had the honor of dedicating the stamp.
Geisel died on September 24, 1991 at his birthplace - La Jolla, CA. But, oh, the places he has and will continue to travel through the legacy of words he put into print.

JOSH BARNETT PHOTO

Indiana Governor Joe Kernan, reads to a group of kindergartners at Sunman Elementary School on Wednesday, March 3. Kernan was asked to read to students as part of "Read Across America" and a celebration of Dr. Seuss's 100th birthday. Along with reading to the class Kernan also talked to fourth graders who are currently studying Indiana history.