Max is the star of the first session
By SHERRY DIGMON
News Staff Writer
The date written inside the small paperback book is 1965. Gary Goodwin treasures this little book from his elementary school years. The book impacted his life. The book: First Lady of the Seeing Eye Dog.
He was at the Atmore Public Library Friday, June 1, to share two things with the children – his love of reading and his love of German shepherds.
Gary and his wife Lori, who live south of Canoe, adopt rescue German shepherds – dogs that no one else wants for various reasons.
On the first day of the library’s summer reading program the Goodwins brought Max, a two-year-old rescue dog they’ve had for about a year.
Before Max made his debut before the 76 kids along with parents and grandparents and several residents from Atmore Nursing Center, Gary talked with the kids about reading.
“Read!” he said. “That’s how you learn. You can go anywhere in the world when you read.”
Gary talked with the kids about having a dog for a pet, about the responsibility, and about rescue and service dogs.
Then everyone who wanted to had a chance to pet Max and talk with Gary.
The theme for the summer reading program at the library is Libraries Rock and this one will be rocking throughout June.
After the program, patrons 18 and under were invited to pick up lunch in the meeting room.
Scheduled programs are
* June 8 – Poodle Show
* June 15 – Wild West Rope Show
* June 22 – Portable Petting Zoo
* June 29 – Awards Program
Lunch is provided after each program for patrons 18 and under.
News photos by Sherry Digmon
