Tri-State Literacy Council hosts awards dinner

HUNTINGTON-- Linda Hopkins has several hobbies that she likes to do in her spare time. But in the fall of 2006, aside from sewing and camping, she added what she considers as the most important one of them all-- reading.

Hopkins took home seven certificates and a trophy for her achievements in reading at the 20th annual Tri-State Literacy Council Awards Dinner Monday night, which was held at the Cabell County Public Library. Dinner and decorations were provided by Big Loafer Restaurant.

The Tri-State Literacy Council consists of numerous adults who are paired with tutors that help them learn how to read and write in order to meet professional goals.

Denise Pittenger, the new director of the Tri-State Literacy Council, said the program is very much needed throughout the Tri-State.

"Literacy is bigger than most people think and we need people to know how to read and write," she said.

About six other adults, along with their tutors, were recognized for their reading achievements and handed certificates.

Since Hopkins joined the program, she has completed more than 100 hours of tutoring. The Barboursville native went from low beginning to high intermediate. As a youth, she experienced reading difficulties and dropped out of school in the seventh grade.

"I had to take special classes, and the teachers said it would cost a lot of money in order for me to stay in school," she said. "I dropped out because I felt like I wasn't wanted. It took my daughter to bring me to the literacy council in order for me to improve my skills."

Now, Hopkins said she can read a lot better and write checks.

Jane Pancake, a retired public school teacher, was Hopkins' tutor. She received the 2008 Tutor of the Year award trophy. She could not be at the dinner, so Hopkins accepted the award on her behalf.

Local author Carter Taylor Seaton was the guest speaker at the dinner.

To show her love for camping, Hopkins wrote a two-page essay about going camping at Beach Pork State Park in Barboursville. A loud ovation from the audience was given at the end.