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Press Contact:
Cisco DeVries
(510) 981-7103

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 7, 2003

BERKELEY TO JOIN “CITIES THAT READ” – TAKE ACTION ON ADULT ILLITERACY

Mayor Tom Bates will join cities across the country in officially pledging Berkeley’s participation in program to increase adult literacy.

 Berkeley, CA –  In an effort to boost literacy among adults in the Berkeley community, Mayor Tom Bates will officially join the “Cities that Read” statewide campaign.  Created by California Literacy, Inc. – the oldest and largest statewide volunteer adult literacy organization in the United States – the campaign aims to raise awareness about adult literacy and support new and existing literacy programs.

 “Family, health, employment and community involvement…it all starts with literacy,” said Mayor Bates. “Through participation in Cities That Read, we will work to ensure that everyone in our city has the literacy skills they need to maximize their potential for themselves, their families and their community.”

While Berkeley is known for its educated population, there is a significant education gap among its residents.  Approximately 8 percent of Berkeley’s adult residents lack a high school diploma.

The Mayor’s proclamation is further bolstered by a new organization, the Berkeley Adult Literacy Coalition (BALC).  BALC is a new community resource that forges alliances among more than 20 adult learning and literacy programs in the City of Berkeley.

The media are invited to attend the event.

WHAT:           Mayor Tom Bates officially signs Berkeley up for the “Cities that Read” program.

WHERE:         Berkeley West Branch Library
1125 University Ave (at San Pablo)

WHEN:           Friday, Sept. 5^th
1 p.m. – 2 p.m.

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