TO CONGRATULATE AUTHOR ASHLYE V. RUMPH-GEDDIS OF RICHLAND COUNTY ON THE PUBLICATION OF HER NEW CHILDREN'S BOOK, TORI EXPLORES SOUTH CAROLINA, AND ON ITS SELECTION AS THE CITY OF COLUMBIA'S TOGETHER WE CAN READ BOOK OF THE YEAR.

Whereas, the General Assembly is pleased to learn of the publication of author Ashlye V. Rumph-Geddis's new children's book, Tori Explores South Carolina, and of the selection of this fine new work as the City of Columbia's Together We Can Read Book of the Year; and

Whereas, a native of Columbia, Ashlye V. Rumph-Geddis is a much-sought-after speaker, author, and trainer; and

Whereas, in preparation for her multifaceted career, she earned a bachelor of science in psychology from Winthrop University and a master of arts in elementary education from Hampton University. She is the C.E.O. of Learning Adventures, Inc. and the founder of The Magic of Learning Foundation, which offers four programs: Men Supporting Learning, Tori R.E.A.D.S., True Beauty, and The Gift of Giving; and

Whereas, Ms. Rumph-Geddis had previously released two children's books, Tori Finds Shapes All Around and Tori Finds Colors All Around, prior to the publication of her newest children's book, Tori Explores South Carolina, released in March 2011; and

Whereas, formerly having worked with Richland School District One in Columbia, Ms. Rumph-Geddis is an experienced kindergarten and first-grade teacher. Currently, she serves as an adjunct faculty member at the University of South Carolina College of Education and conducts professional-development training for early-childhood teachers and directors; and

Whereas, in recognition of her achievements, she was included in Cambridge Who's Who Among Professional Women and nominated for ASCD Outstanding Young Educator. In addition, she has participated in the International Missions on Education in Australia; and

Whereas, believing in active involvement in her community, Ashlye V. Rumph-Geddis currently serves on the Eau Claire Promise Zone Board and Heyward Foundation Board. She is also a Girl Scout Troop Leader, Young Leader of Society member, and the founder and director of the Brookland Baptist Church Deaf and Hard of Hearing Ministry; and

Whereas, the importance of the availability of outstanding books for our children cannot be overestimated if they are to become lifelong readers. Cognizant of this need, the General Assembly wishes to congratulate Ms. Rumph-Geddis on the publication of her new book, Tori Explores South Carolina, and on the book's being selected as the City of Columbia's Together We Can Read Book of the Year. The members look forward to hearing of many more Tori books to bless our children in the years to come. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:

That the members of the South Carolina General Assembly, by this resolution, congratulate author Ashlye V. Rumph-Geddis of Richland County on the publication of her new children's book, Tori Explores South Carolina, and on its selection as the City of Columbia's Together We Can Read Book of the Year.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be provided to Ashlye V. Rumph-Geddis.