The Christmas edition of the Reading is Fundamental (RIF) program will be held on Dec. 22 at the Carl C. Morgan Convention Center.

The event, which takes place from 9-11 a.m., will feature Santa Claus, his helpers and the Grinch who stole Christmas. Kids between the ages of 3 and 17 will be treated to a variety of books and a breakfast of grits, eggs and ham. Dr. Seuss’ green eggs and ham will also be served by RIF members.

The program is sponsored by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.’s Zeta Eta Omega Chapter, Women and Youth Services of Selma, Dallas County Commission, Selma City Council, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity’s Delta Phi Lambda Chapter and AmeriCorp.

RIF Chairman Melinda Page said books provide the perfect launching pad for kids to learn.

“It seems incredible for a book to launch a life, but it happens every day as hungry, inquisitive young minds reach out and grab hold of the new people, places, and ideas through books,” Page said.

RIF Coordinator Nancy Sewell said the event was originally scheduled for Dec. 15, but was moved back a week because of a scheduling conflict. The city of Selma parade was being held at the same time. The parade was postponed on Dec. 1 because a heavy rainstorm hit the Black Belt region.