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SUMMERDALE - The Town of Summerdale has voted to begin sponsorship of the Ambassador Company, which promotes reading, values, and character strength in school children.

The Ambassador Company distributes books to schools that participate in the program. Each book is geared towards specific grades, and within the pages students will find lessons in good manners, community values, and encouragement to live a successful life.

“The Summerdale school is doing this program,” said Town Clerk Tiffany Lynn. “It’s for every first grader and every fourth grader, each child will get a book.”

Individual sponsors keep the program going, and a 2-year sponsorship costs $300. Each sponsor gets a listing on a special page near the front of the book, so that years later the past students and their parents will remember those who helped make the program possible.

“These books really teach about a lot of things,” said Lynn. “Good manners, words can be beautiful, friendship, my town, my hero, family. And the program will customize the books too.”

Lynn brought a book from the first grade program and a book from the fourth grade program as examples, which Mayor David Wilson shared with the council.

“A book about doing your best, and being your best,” Wilson read. “I think this is a great idea. These little books teach proper manners and community values.”

Along with the reading materials, the books also include activities for students as well, such as writing exercises, thought exercises, and interactive sections enforcing the values and lessons that are taught within the books.

The Ambassador Company states on its website: “The Ambassador Company administers character education programs in local schools, sponsored by businesses and leading citizens. By making these programs possible, our sponsors strengthen their communities and distinguish themselves for leadership, citizenship and strong family values.”

For more information on the program and what they offer, you can find them online at www.AmbassadorCompany.com.