Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon (D-Utica/Rome) is continuing her 2021 Summer Reading Collaboration, an interactive program that partners with local groups to produce events that will help foster a love of reading and learning. The events are free to the public.

“I’m thankful that our community has been able to come together to make the first 2021 Summer Reading Collaboration events such a bounding success,” said Buttenschon. “It’s critical that we do all that we can to support our youth as they learn and grow, whether that be meeting animals from all over the world or learning about the life of a competitive athlete. I would like to thank our community partners for helping our youngest gain an interactive educational experience and I encourage everyone to attend the remaining events.” 

So far, Buttenschon has collaborated with the Utica Zoo and New York Power Authority (NYPA) to bring students together on July 16 for Story Time at the Zoo in the Zoo Amphitheater. There, the students heard an adventurous tale about different animals in the zoo while NYPA specialists were on hand to discuss the history behind its energy. On August 2, Buttenschon partnered with the Oneida County History Center to explore the people, places and events that shaped Oneida County. This interactive activity allows kids to learn about local history and document their journey with selfies at historic Oneida County landmarks.

The 2021 Summer Reading Collaboration will continue through partnerships with the Utica Comets and Broadway Utica for the remainder of its summer programming.

On August 5, the Utica Comets are hosting a fun ESPN and Q&A style press conference with former professional hockey players at Jervis Public Library to discuss fun and humorous tales of hockey and allow local youth to learn what it takes to make it on the ice. Afterwards, summer readers will skate with hockey players on the Utica Comets’ inflatable ice rink.

Then, Broadway Utica is taking youth to the theater on August 13 at 11 a.m. with a presentation at Utica Public Library that allows kids to learn more about the behind-the-scenes processes of Broadway shows and the art of playwriting. Participants will get the chance to meet with Broadway Utica Executive Director Danielle Padula to discuss the power of playwrights and the local theater scene.

Finally, on Monday, August 16 at 1 p.m. and Wednesday, August 18 at 12 p.m. our summer reading series will end with book readings from local leaders. Monday’s book reading will be presented by Dr. Montgomery from SUNY Poly and Wednesday’s reading will be delivered by Casandra Harris-Lockwood. Pack a lunch and come on down to the brand-new patio in front of the State Office Building in Utica for the end of a fun filled summer. Hope to see everyone there!