Once buzzed into the school, the guest readers proceeded to a registration table where they were given their identification tags, offered a bottle of water and a thank-you gift, and directed to the school’s library. Connie Glasier, library aide who has coordinated the event for the past 5 years, met the 28 community members. Those who needed a book had the opportunity to select one. Glasier then offered a brief orientation before matching the readers with students who escorted them to the correct classroom. She asked the readers to tell a little bit about themselves including their job and why they liked to read.

Since 1998, the National Education Association has been spearheading “Read Across American,” a national day devoted to reading with children, on the birthday of one of America’s best known children’s authors, Theodor Seuss Geisel, best known as Dr. Seuss.

Occupations of the readers varied. Many, like Cindy Flaherty, Dennis Collins, Linda Orcutt and Pat Harrington were retired teachers.

Orcutt told the first grade students, “I taught school for 39 years.” The students looked surprised and then listened intently to her story.

OBSERVER Photo by Diane R. Chodan Dunkirk First Ward Councilman Don Williams Jr. reads to kindergarten students.

Two Dunkirk police officers, Amy Noble and Matt Goss read while Officer Brian Dietzen and K-9 Gunny briefly visited all the rooms accompanied by Principal David Boyda. SUNY Fredonia President Virginia Horvath read to third graders. Dunkirk Mayor Willie Rosas read to fifth grade students.

“There were very attentive,” he said.

An all-male group of kindergarten students listened avidly to Dunkirk Councilman Don Williams, one youngster nearly climbing on his lap.

Vicki Westling, a retired teacher as well as an author and columnist for the OBSERVER, read to third graders. She used one of her own books from her Sam and Friend series, “Cats Keep Out.” Her books emphasize character and this particular one takes on the issue of bullying.

Other readers included: Carol Ahlstrom, Patty Ball, Donna Brisky, Diane Chodan, Bev Comello, Anita Espersen, Aly Glasier, Sue Gugino, Penny Gummo, Lucy Hurley, Chris Lajewski, Beth Maheady, Jim Owen, Molly Phillips, Rick Rupprecht, Cynthia Smith, Barb Victor, and Jeff Wentz.

OBSERVER Photo by Diane R. Chodan Linda Orcutt, who retired from teaching after 39 years, receives the attention of first graders in Mrs. Bautista’s class.

After reading, the guest readers were invited to the cafeteria where Seuss-themed snacks were available.

The candy gift given at registration summed up School 5’s feeling about their readers. “Thank who? Thank You! Gifts here, gifts there gifts everywhere … Family & friends what a wonderful sight! Having you here was such a delight!”