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Local author shares own story
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Neighbors | Alexis Bartolomucci.Union Elementary students raised their hands to ask McBriarty questions and answer his questions. McBriarty engaged with students asking them questions about their experiences with bridges.
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Neighbors | Alexis Bartolomucci.Author, Patrick McBriarty, stood with two kindergarten students at Union Elementary after speaking to them. McBriarty read his book, "Drawbridges Open and Close," to the students.
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Neighbors | Alexis Bartolomucci.Patrick McBriarty demonstrated how different bridges work. To further demonstrate this to the first- and second-graders, he brought his toy bridges to explain the ways in which bridges move.
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Neighbors | Alexis Bartolomucci.Poland Union Elementary School principal, Mr. Masucci, showed one of author Patrick McBriarty's books to the kindergarten students on Nov. 16 for their Meet the Author event.
By ALEXIS BARTOLOMUCCI
Twice a year the Poland library hosts a local author event. On Dec. 3, the library welcomed local authors, musicians and artists to attend.
Although the turnout was not quite what development director, Deborah Liptak, had hoped, one author was eager to share her story. Patricia Galbreath, author of “Merry Mouse Church Mouse,” was thankful to be part of the local author event.
Galbreath has two children’s stories out - “Merry Mouse in our Father’s House” and “Merry Mouse: Christmas in our Father’s House.” Her stories revolve around a church mouse that tries to spread the knowledge of faith to children. She spoke about how her life growing up has made a big impact on her stories and the desire to become an author.
About 12-15 years ago is when Galbreath said the idea was “God-inspired.” She never went to college and was a stay at home mother caring for her family. Writing began when her pastor asked her if she would be interested in writing the church newsletter. Galbreath then wrote the monthly church newsletter, which fueled her love for writing.
“That’s where my faith started was in a little, country church,” said Galbreath.
The Friends of the Library sponsor these events and give the opportunity for local talent to showcase their work. Becoming known is hard to do, so having the chance to start small is a great way to accomplish something.
“This is a great opportunity,” said Liptak. “It’s good to give people a chance, that’s what this is all about.”