Heroes: Reading about them and meeting local heroes in person

The Odessa Public Library's Summer Reading Program – with its theme, "Who's Your Hero?" – had local kids exploring heroes both in nonfiction stories and with live visits from hometown heroes such as Jonathan Cloud, a member of the National Guard; Trisha Nelson, a registered nurse at Odessa Memorial Healthcare Center; Officer Bryce Peterson of the Odessa Town Police; and volunteer firefighter Alberto Reyes with the Odessa Fire Department. All heroes were warmly welcomed by the children, who excitedly engaged in learning about the professions of each visitor.

They learned about the importance of...