Glenview Elementary School in Oakland, was holding their annual Read-A-Thon to help support various activities and supplies for the elementary school. The Read-A-Thon is the largest fundraiser sponsored by the local Parent Teacher Association.

DE Sam Williams attended the event by way of special guest from Glenview for this wonderful cause. "I had a great time today. The kids were especially great with all of their questions and stories they had about their families and Raiders events." Williams continued, "This reminded me of the time when Hall of Famer Ronnie Lott came to my elementary school in Sacramento to talk and read to us. I will never forget the thrill and excitement that he brought into the room. Talking to these kids made all of those memories come back and it's great that I can make them feel the same way Ronnie Lott made me feel."

Williams was able to visit two different classrooms during his stay at Glenview. He started in Mrs. Hickman's 3rd grade classroom and read a book on dragons and then went over to Mr. Miller's 4th grade class to read a chapter out of the Hatchet by Gary Paulsen. The kids loved it. They were so excited about the animation and enthusiasm that Williams displayed that when time ended they were yelling at him not to stop. After reading for about 20 minutes, Williams took time out to sign autographs, answer questions and pose for some pictures.

"These kids are hilarious. The stories they told me about their dads, uncles and families, make me feel that the Raider Nation is everywhere and is getting stronger by the day despite our season's outcome." Williams continued, "It's nice to have the support."

Last year $16,000 was raised to help support the school's needs. This year, the money being raised is to help fund various field trips, supplement school and teacher supplies and to help sponsor for various art programs. The main focus of this year's Read-A-Thon is to help bring in a part-time librarian for the kids.

The Oakland Tribune: Cityside
Leanne McLaughlin, Managing Editor
(510) 208-6447
(510) 208-6477 Fax##
lmclaughlin@angnewspapers.com Email