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READING BRINGS DALLAS TOGETHER!
George Dawson, the grandson of a slave, was born in a log cabin in Marshall, Texas. When he was just eight years old, he began working to help support his family. He never went to school or learned to read. He worked hard and did good deeds, but always dreamed about reading. At the age of 98, Mr. Dawson went to school to learn to read. His dream had come true.   Full Story >>

Spotlighted Programs

2006 African American Read-In Program

Ossie Davis
The production for the upcoming Seventh Annual African American Read-In, to be held Saturday, Feb. 4, 2006 at the Majestic Theatre, will be an original, inspiring production.

"A Prince Came Out of Egypt: A Tribute to Ossie Davis", written by Anyika McMillan-Herod and directed by Monique Ridge-Williams, not only celebrates the life and legacy of the late actor and activist but also those individuals he represented through his work: fathers, husbands, writers, artists and humanitarians.

Avery Brooks to Narrate 2006 Read-In

Avery Brooks
Avery Brooks is an accomplished actor, director, musician and teacher as best known for his roles as Benjamin Sisko in "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine" and Hawk in "Spenser: For Hire."

Johnny Wimbrey, Motivational Speaker, Author

Johnny Wimbrey
Dallas-based Johnny Wimbrey is a motivational speaker, entrepreneur and best-selling author who travels the country as a success coach and trainer. He also talks to students and promotes youth enrichment; delivers his message at leadership retreats, ministries and success seminars to national and international audiences.

African American Read-In News

An Award-Winning Event

DCCCD’s African American Read-In received the 2005 James Patterson PageTurner Award last fall, a first-year national award for nominated literacy projects.

The Dallas Read-In took first place among more than 1,500 nominees and applicants, winning $25,000. Patterson is an author and writer for the New York Times and founder of the award program.
Greg Fields

Greg Fields to Host Read-In

WFAA-TV's Greg Fields will host the 2006 Read-In. Greg Fields joined WFAA-TV in April 1998. He can be seen Monday through Friday on "Daybreak" and "GMT" and Monday through Wednesday on "Midday".

I'm Lovin' It

McDonald's, as a sponsor, will launch a special AARI promotional campaign in support of literacy that will run in 250 regional restaurants and will feature the Read-In trayliners for all dine-in guests. Stay tuned!

Scholarship Recipients to be Announced

The George Dawson "Hold Fast to Dreams" scholarship recipients will be announced at the Read-In.  Scholarship donations will be accepted at the Read-In event, or donate now online!

Published Local Writers Present Works!

As part of the preshow segment, the 2006 African American Read-In is pleased to include published local writers in the program on stage at the Majestic.

Upcoming Events

Feb. 4, 2006

"A Prince Came Out of Egypt: A Tribute to Ossie Davis"
2 to 4 p.m.
(Preshow entertainment begins at 1:35)

Majestic Theatre, 1925 Elm St., Downtown Dallas, 75201.

Appearances by actor Avery Brooks and writer/life coach, Johnny Wimbrey.

Admission is free, but seating is limited. Come early!

Feb. 17


 The District Office, Moline and South Side African American Read-In is proud to announce Special Guest, Denise Nicholas appearing on Friday, Feb. 17, 12:30 to 2:30 PM, at the El Centro College Gym.

Feb. 17-18


 Actor Denise Nicholas (Room 222, In the Heat of the Night) will be signing her new book, "Freshwater Road" at Jokae's and Black Images Book Bazaar on Feb. 17-18.

Feb. 1-28

Host Your Own Read-In
Host your own Read-In during the month of February and receive free T-shirts, canvas bags, and other literacy incentives.  

For additional information, please call 214-860-2005.