HP makes reading part of youths’ summer fun

Staff report On July 19, storytellers, poets, literacy activists, non-profits and businesses will come together to make reading fun for kids for whom access to books and literary programs is getting more and more scarce. “Kid Zone,” sponsored by Legacy of Literacy, Inc. and the Highland Park Business Association, will transform the grounds of the shuttered Highland Park McGregor Library (12244 Woodward Ave.) into a summer wonderland on July 19, from 12-6 p.m. The event features storytelling and poetry performances for kids of all ages. Well-known storytellers Ivory Williams and Earl Wheeler will present entertaining, interactive stories that spread positive messages to children and adults. Poets from the Inside Out Literary Arts Project will both perform for the youth and encourage them to compose their own pieces. Volunteers will be on hand to listen children read aloud from their favorite books. In addition to the literary activities, children will enjoy ice-cream making, face painting, pony rides, train rides and arts and crafts activities. Books will be given away to all participants, and raffles will be held throughout the day. “We invite children of all ages to this annual event designed to emphasize the importance of literacy,” said Alma Greer, founder and president of Legacy of Literacy. For more information, call 313.204.5362.