August 14, 2004 – Fifteen youngsters learned Saturday morning at the gazebo at Fort Christiansvaern how much fun reading can be.
The program, billed as the Summertime Story Hour, was organized Angela East Weber, the staff accountant at Cruzan Rum.
The program was not affiliated with the library or schools. It was just Weber with help from friends she said.
Three of those friends were readers. Anna Heyllger-Hector, president of the St. Croix Chamber of Commerce, read "Bathing for Biscuit Max and Maggie in the Summer." Denise Guadalupe, of Lanaia's Baby World, read "Good Night, Dora." Gladys Gonzalez, GG's Professional Services, read "Yahouce and the Dinosaurs."
Young listeners and adult readers will return to the gazebo on Aug. 28. The readers will be Donna Christiansen, Delegate to Congress; Rennie Roker, founder of Teens on the Greens; Donna Brosius, The Gecko Boutique; and Bonnie Luria, Jewelweed Inc. The program is for youngsters ages three through 12. An adult must accompany them.
Weber said she is a youth advocate and that to make a better community we have to reach the young. The quote from her on the program said, "The human spirit lives through service."
Weber doesn't want to see the program stop after the summer readings. She hopes to organize a book exchange for youngsters.

Publisher's note : Like the St. Croix Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice… click here.