Reading will reap rewards for local elementary students as the Prince George Free Press and the Prince George Cougars partner on the Breakaway for Books reading program this season. Seven Cougars will visit two Kindergarten classes at Ron Brent Elementary on Monday, November 2 for the program launch.

The program, aimed at grades K-3, will stress the importance of reading and provide Cougars tickets to students who complete reading goals assigned by their teachers. All students who participate will also receive coupons for individual size pizzas, courtesy of Panago.

“The Prince George Free Press is pleased to team up with the Prince George Cougars and Panago to present the Breakaway for Books promotion. As Prince George's Community Newspaper it is a natural project for us to be involved in,” said Prince George Free Press Publisher, Phil Beaulieu. “Helping build a stronger community is one of our mandates and literacy is an essential part of any community development.”

“We are very excited to partner with the Free Press on Breakaway for Books in 2009/2010 and are pleased with the additional components they bring to the program. Like the Free Press, we are committed to supporting healthy communities through education and leadership,” said Cougars Vice President, Brandi Brodsky. “We look forward to working with local schools as our players connect with their young fans.”

Last season the Cougars visited 31 classes in School District 57; over 600 students attended Cougars games as part of the Breakaway for Books in 2008/2009.