03/02/2012 – Dr. Seuss Reading at Forest Hills Elementary School

Fire-Rescue participated in reading Dr. Seuss books to students at Forest Hills Elementary School Friday morning 2-March at 09:30. It was in honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday. Several local authorities were invited to read to the students, including Clerk of Court Pat Grant, Councilman Smalls, Mayor Young and Public Safety Officer Ricky Valentine. Fire-Rescue’s assignment was to read the “The Cat in the Hat” to several second classes. Patches the robotic fire dog joined Deputy Chief David Greene on the stage as the two took turns reading from the book. A PowerPoint display allowed the students to follow along. As word circulated around the school that Patches was in the cafeteria, all of the second grade classes joined, as well as the first grade students. Around 300 students listened and applauded as the story unfolded. Patches thought he was going to be able to chase the cat, but settled into the reading instead. He had a great deal of fun interacting with the students. Following the end of the story, Patches and Chief Greene discussed the importance of reading and good nutrition. They also reviewed fire safety topics with the children.

Fire Marshal Captain Richard Sheffield was the voice of Patches. He worked from behind the stage operating the robotic dog. Fire Marshal Michael Banks and Chief McRoy also assisted.