Wednesday, May 29, 2002
By KATIE-NELL SCANLON
VINDICATOR STAFF WRITER
LIBERTY -- Pupils from E.J. Blott Elementary School could barely sit still as they magically whizzed along on their flying carpets. OK, so they didn't exactly fly. But the carpets were magic.
Thanks to Biviano Carpet One in Girard, first- and second-graders had the chance to travel around the world with books Tuesday morning. The children were part of the national literacy program, "Carpet One Magic Carpet Time Tour 'Around the World in a Day.' "
Actors Chrystal Sturtevant, Jonathan Foss and Kristi Heaps are on the tour for three more weeks, performing throughout Ohio for elementary school children. The show this morning was one of the 150 performances put on by the trio for the nationwide program.
Going places
The scholastic presentation encouraged pupils that they can go anywhere with the power of reading. With the help of characters, Al, Genie and B.B., popular children's stories came to life as they "flew" to different countries. From the stampede of elephants in Africa to the mountains and castles in Italy, children were introduced to legends, fairytales, folktales and poems native to each country.
The hour presentation brought books to life for the young readers. Kids leaped at the chance to interact in the program, demonstrating their excitement for reading.
"The kids really did a great job," said Lynn Biviano from Biviano Carpet One.
Debbie Walters, second-grade teacher at E.J. Blott, got to participate in the travels, playing a role in a modern-day tale of Pinocchio. The story showed the kids the consequences of lying and talking to strangers.
"I just think it's a wonderful show, and the kids really enjoy it," Walters said.
An extra wish
To conclude the presentation, the audience was granted an extra wish by Genie, who provided each pupil with a Disney storybook to take home and their own magic carpet square, donated by Biviano Carpet One.
David and Lynn Biviano of Biviano Carpet One expressed their excitement for being able to take part in the program. After waiting on a national list for two years, the Bivianos were given the chance to bring the show to a school in the area.
Blott was chosen because of its central location and good mix of pupils, David Biviano said.
kscanlon@vindy.com