First Mike’s reading tour reaches milestone

For Immediate Release: June 12, 2008

Mike Gregoire reads to 100th elementary school in Spokane

SPOKANE – With a young crowd as his audience, Mike Gregoire today read Jon Scieszka’s “The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs,” for the 100th time to elementary students at Sheridan Elementary in Spokane.
Gov. Chris Gregiore congratulated First Mike on his accomplishment.

“I am so appreciative of his dedication to his literacy outreach program,” the governor said. “His school visits send a powerful message to young students. He’s showing them that reading can be fun, and encouraging them to continue to read and develop those crucial skills needed to succeed.”

“I have a great time traveling across the state, and visiting schools and libraries,” Mike Gregoire said. “It’s encouraging to see how responsive these students are. They love to hear the wolf’s side of the well-known story of the three little pigs. I hope my visits will spark a habit of reading at home with parents or siblings.”

First Gentleman Mike is a strong advocate for children’s literacy. He began his reading program in 2005 shortly after moving into the Governor’s mansion. He completed his 39-county tour last year, and will continue his literacy outreach program across the state.