A favorite character from literature came to life for more than 600 prekindergarten students who received books and a visit from Clifford the Big Red Dog on Friday as part of The United Way of Hall County’s Celebrate Literacy Day. The event, which was recognized by the Hall County Board of Commissioners and Gainesville City Council, was coordinated to promote the importance of early childhood reading and learning. “In a world that demands an educated workforce, literacy is foundational to even having a chance to being successful,” said Will Schofield, superintendent of the Hall County School System.