For Immediate Release:  July 6, 2005
Contact:  Sam Gnuse, Altamont Public Library Board President
Subject: 2005 Summer Reading Program Puppet Show

As part of the 2005 Summer Reading Program, the Altamont Public Library hosted a free “Peter Pan – the Super Hero” puppet show on Friday, June 17.  The event started from the Library at 2 p.m. with a short walk to the Altamont Living Museum for the showing of the Peter Pan performance from Patrice Heiken Puppets from Evansville.  Over 75 area children and over 50 adults were in attendance. 

“The program was very enjoyable.  It is amazing that the program was put on by only two talented individuals,” stated local resident, Joyce Schumacher and her son, Tony.  “The program was well attended by adults as well as children.  My four year-old son, Tony, was able to easily understand and follow the puppet show.  The music was catchy and interesting and the show was entertaining for the adults as well as all the children who attended.”  The 45 minute show featured hand-made puppets, bright colors, and lively music.  The show included interactive activities and audience participation. Area children were able to pass around several of the puppets and some were invited onto the stage to interact with the puppets. 

The Patrice Heiken Puppets, from Evansville, are a second generation mother and daughter production.  This show was sponsored by the Altamont Junior Women’s Club, through a donation from their recent Cuddly Bunny Contest.  The Altamont Living Museum generously donated the use of the Museum.

At the end of the show, all reading participants present will eligible for attendance drawings, donated by the following local merchants:  Taylor Law Office, Effingham K-Mart, Altamont Subway, Herb Stuemke/Prairie Farms, Water Colors in Altamont, Special Tee Store, The Home Center, Blossom Paradise, Triangle Video, First Mid Bank, The Cookie Jar, Connie Kommer, and the Altamont Public Library patrons. 

Keep your kids' reading skills sharp this summer. It is a proven fact that reading through the summer months will help them maintain the reading skills they have gained this year! There are great prizes and fun programs for all ages in our Summer Reading Program.  Participation prizes will be awarded the end of June.

For more information on the Altamont Public Library, stop by or call 618-483-5457 or visit www.altamontpubliclibrary.com. 

Captain Hook and the crocodile puppets were just two of many puppets used during the Library’s recent puppet show.