A CAST OF CHARACTERS--Gov. Bob Taft answeres questions from reporters while the Cat in the Hat character stands by, at the Ohio Statehouse, in Columbus, Ohio, on Tuesday, Feb. 9, 1999. Taft was joined by the Dr. Seuss character as he signed a proclamation making March 2, Ohio Read Accross America day. (JACK KUSTRON/photoj.com)

CAT LOVER--Gov. Bob Taft applauds an 8-foot version of the Cat in the Hat during an event to promote March 2 as Ohio Read Across America day, at the Ohio Statehouse, in Columbus, Ohio, on Tuesday, Feb. 9, 1999. (JACK KUSTRON/photoj.com)