Focus on the power for reading will be Forth Annual Education Banquet theme.

Margie Johnson Reese, executive director for the Wichita Falls Alliance for Arts and Culture will be guest speaker for the event.

Scheduled for 6 p.m. Jan. 28 at the Wellington Banquet Center, 5200 Kell West Blvd, proceeds will support the improvement of child reading skills. The banquet is organized by the African American Education Coalition and East of the Falls Community Development Corp.

WFCDC is committed to building a strong foundation for the future of the Eastside for generations to come. AAEC works toward strong reading and learning skills.

“When we talk about literacy, there are two categories,” said Reese. “It’s not just reading the written word but having cultural literacy – reading the world.”

While improving reading skills is important to provide young students a path to academic success, Reese sees a greater need.

“Programs like this get books in the hands of kids outside the classroom, something they need access to.” said Reese. “Too often kids think social media is the full story. Nearly every 12-year-old has a cell phone and adults tell them it’s OK not to investigate what they see.”

Tickets are $25 for an individual and $250 for table of eight for a business or organization.

For more information or to purchase tickets, call Desi Hale at 940-781-9025 or Shane Martin at 940-255-2702.