Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C,I-Corning) kicked off his 2016 Summer Read and Run Challenge by honoring last year’s champions, the elementary students at Bradford Central School. Palmesano partnered with Kozy Korner Restaurant Owner Alice Howe to treat the students to an ice cream party.

“I want to congratulate all the students at Bradford Elementary for putting their summer to great use,” said Palmesano. “At a time when kids are spending so much time inside playing video games and watching TV, it is really important for us to encourage them to get outside and stay active. We also want to challenge them to explore new worlds and generate new ideas through reading things that interest them. The kids at Bradford embraced that challenge, and I’m happy to reward them for it today.”

"One of the greatest endeavors a school can take on is to foster a love of reading in its students. We are very appreciative of Assemblyman Palmesano's support of the summer reading program and public education in general," said Bradford Central Superintendent John Marshall.

“It is wonderful to see our K-6 students reading during the summer months- good readers make great leaders,” said Bradford Central Principal Mary Ordway.

“Reading is fun, so learn to read and see how much you will succeed,” rhymed Kozy Korner Restaurant Owner Alice Howe.

“I am so very proud of the elementary students of the Bradford Central School District for their overwhelming participation in the 2015 Summer Read and Run Challenge. The students should be commended for striving to continue learning and being active throughout the summer; and thank you to the parents who supported their endeavor,” said Chairman of the Steuben County Legislature Joseph Hauryski.

Palmesano will also host an ice cream party for the winners of this year’s Read and Run Challenge.

“I want to thank all the parents who have encouraged their kids to keep their minds and bodies active during the summer,” said Palmesano. “Promoting these habits at a young age can encourage a lifetime of physical, mental and emotional health.”

To participate in this year’s challenge, parents or guardians mark the calendar on the Read and Run brochure for each day in July and August that the student reads and exercises. If the child fulfills their fitness and reading goals, they earn a New York State Assembly Excellence in Reading and Fitness Certificate. Additional brochures are available from Palmesano’s district office by calling 607-776-9691.