PTA auction provides books for children

Euchee Creek Elementary School's Parent Teacher Organization Association is trying to raise money to give its students one of the best gifts of all - a book.

"I am really excited about this project because to give a child a book can open the door to a lifetime of reading and learning," PTA President Debby Turner said.

One of its primary fund-raisers will be the Spring Carnival, which will be 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 6.

A live auction will begin at 1:15 p.m., with Jimmy Epps calling the auction. Among other things, the auction will include a Coca-Cola print, a football signed by football-punting great Ray Guy, a signed Augusta Lynx hockey stick, a Dewalt saw, restaurant gift certificates and packages, such as a Mother's Day package that includes a night's stay at a local motel, dinner certificate and flowers. A gold ring also has been donated to the auction, and more items are arriving daily, Turner said.

Last year, the PTA raised $600 to buy a bulk package of 600 books. This year, they would like to triple that amount so the children can pick out their own books.

"To encourage reading we gave every child in our school last year leaving for summer vacation a book to remind them to read over the summer. This year, we are hoping to expand on that and allow every child to pick out their own books," Turner said. "By having them pick out their own, they could pick out one that sparks their interest."

The PTA also is asking for book donations or funds to purchase books. Some local businesses also are planning to hold book drives.

"We're encouraging reading any way we can," Turner said. "Reading is the most basic, fundamental of school. Someone asked me, 'What about math?' But if you can't read the problem, you can't do it."

Donations also can be sent to: Euchee Creek PTA, 795 Louisville Road, Grovetown, GA 30813.