Belleview, Fl. (352today.com) – The City of Belleview proudly recognizes and thanks Shannon Edge-Bowen for her donation of more than 60 children’s books to the City’s Story Time with the Mayor program. Her gift will directly place more stories, knowledge, and imagination into the hands of local children.
Edge-Bowen serves as a piercer at Diamond Tattoo and Body Piercing in Summerfield. Beyond her professional work, she is deeply engaged in community activities and is a passionate supporter of literacy. She helps coordinate the Book Lovers & Friends book club, a group that meets regularly to share a love of reading and promote the value of books in everyday life. Her donation reflects her belief that children who have access to books at an early age are more likely to develop stronger reading skills, greater curiosity, and a lifelong appreciation for learning.
Story Time with the Mayor is a free, family-friendly event held on the first Tuesday of each month at 5:00 p.m. at the Belleview Community Center. Sponsored by SouthState Bank, the program invites children and their families to enjoy an evening where Mayor Christine Dobkowski reads a children’s book for all to enjoy. Each session includes a fun, hands-on craft activity, a light dinner, and the opportunity for every child to take home a free book provided through Goodwill BookWorks.
Edge-Bowen’s donation will supplement the variety of titles available, ensuring children of all ages and reading levels can find a book that sparks their interest.
“Shannon’s generosity goes far beyond the books themselves,” said Robert Vass, Community Engagement Liaison for the City of Belleview. “She has given our young residents the chance to explore new worlds, discover new ideas, and build a foundation for lifelong learning. Books inspire creativity, fuel imagination, and open doors to possibilities that children might never have imagined. Every book we are able to give out is one more opportunity for a child to connect with a story that could influence their life in a meaningful way. Shannon’s commitment to literacy reflects the very spirit of what we strive to do as a community—invest in our future by empowering the next generation.”
The City of Belleview encourages families to attend Story Time with the Mayor each month and take advantage of this opportunity to build positive reading habits in a fun and engaging environment.
For more information on Story Time with the Mayor and other community programs, visit www.belleviewfl.org/events or email rvass@belleviewfl.org.
Attachment: Edge-Bowen with a recent read at her place of employment.