Surrounded by swarms of green-lipped children, Mayor Glenn Johnson, WSU athletes and elementary school principals read Dr. Seuss books to the community Wednesday night.

The Student Washington Education Association put on “Family Fun Night” from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday in Cleveland Hall to celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday. They also have been holding a nonprofit scholastic book fair throughout the week for the community.

The turnout at the event was higher than last year, said Amanda Muller, senior elementary education major and Student Washington Educator Association book fair coordinator.

Many parents, including Diane Swenson, said they plan on returning next year. She said the emphasis on books and reading is the biggest draw.

“Any opportunity to listen to books and eat cake, who wouldn’t love it?” Swenson said.

“Family Fun Night” also gave children an opportunity to read and be read to, said Ellyn Eickhoff, a senior elementary education major and Student Washington Educator Association member.

WSU cheerleader Lance Weber said he enjoyed the experience, because the chance to interact with children doesn't happen much in college.

“I like reading to kids – it’s always a good experience,” Weber said. “I love to see them smile.” Johnson has been reading at the event for several years. He used his signature “voice of the Cougars” to draw the children into the stories.

“I think (this event) is great,” Johnson said. “I thoroughly enjoy reading to kids.” While readers enjoyed Dr. Seuss tales in an animated and enthusiastic manner, three Pullman High School cheerleaders helped with an arts and crafts table. The table had crosswords, word games, coloring supplies, glitter, stickers and red and white construction paper to make Dr. Seuss hats.

Butch T. Cougar arrived a little before 6 p.m., and he immediately joined the children on the floor listening to Johnson read “The Cat in the Hat.” Later, Butch joined the readers and motioned through the stories, then combed through the book fair with children.

The party started winding down around 6:15 p.m., and people moved toward the book fair. Then they scattered throughout Cleveland Hall, and parents settled in with their children to read some new stories and enjoy the provided juice and “Cat in the Hat” cake.

The book fair and buy-one-get-one-free deal will continue from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. today on Cleveland’s second floor. Raffle tickets for $1 also are available for four different gift baskets filled with five books.