They came; they listened to the story; they voted. For children attending Smoke on the Water and visiting Beaufort-Hyde Partnership for Children’s story time tent, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches were voted the most favorite sandwiches.

More than 80 children participated in the read-aloud activities and voting game, which was sponsored by the partnership. Guest readers from Literacy Volunteers of Beaufort County delighted children with the book, “The Bear Ate Your Sandwich” by Julia Sarcone-Roach, a classic tale of a bear’s epic journey and the mystery surrounding one delicious sandwich. Sandwich choices for the vote included: peanut butter and jelly, grilled cheese, turkey, ham or banana sandwiches.

The event served as a kick-off event to Jumpstart’s Read for the Record Day Thursday. The event is a part of a national campaign that builds awareness on the importance of reading aloud to young children every day to promote school readiness and success in life.

“Read aloud to your children at least 15 minutes every day,” said Lisa Woolard, executive director of Beaufort-Hyde Partnership for Children. “Then, follow up with questions about the story that build comprehension skills needed for school.”