First Gentleman Mike Gregoire, husband of Governor Chris Gregoire, stopped at Naval Branch Health Clinic (NBHC) Everett to read to some children Jan. 26 to kick off the start of a national reading program at the clinic.

Gregoire arrived and had a brief tour of the lower level of the clinic. He then sat in the waiting area to read “Captain Cat” to a group of children age four and five years old.

“I love reading to children but even more so to children of the military,” said Gregoire. “Even when we go to other schools we bring up if there are any children of veterans.”

Only a couple weeks ago, Reach Out and Read, a national reading program to increase literacy in young children, started at Everett’s clinic. As part of the program, a small display was set up in the waiting area and age appropriate books will be kept for parents to read to their children.

“In the world of pediatrics over the last few years through the leadership of military physicians there’s been an increasing awareness of military families and how we need to support them,” said Dr. Jill Sells, regional director, Reach Out and Read Washington State.

Sells said the program already has stations at other military facilities in the region including Madigan Army Medical Center, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Bremerton Naval Hospital and Naval Base Kitsap in Bangor.

Dr. Lynn Collins, Pediatrician, NBHC Everett, saw the need for a program like this at Naval Station Everett and pushed to bring it here. According to Collins problems such as speech impediments and illiteracy could drastically decrease by parents simply taking the time to read to their children.

“I strongly believe in advocating literacy in young childhood because then it sticks with people for life,” said Collins. “It promotes speech and literacy in a young age.”

Gregoire strongly agrees with Collins’ views and makes many stops at schools and libraries to read to young children and promote literacy.

“Reading is such a key” said Gregoire. “Whatever you want to do, whatever hopes and dreams you have, you get through books.”