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.