The Idea was born:
In the Spring of 2005, when Buck was about 1 1/2 years old, I took him to the Aids Alliance picnic in Vineland as my guest. He was a big hit with the kids and some of the adults (even after stealing a hamburger from a 4 year old boy, who was petting him at the time).
Shortly afterward I spoke with Ed O'Connor from the NJ Div. of Highway Traffic Safety. This is the agency where we obtain our traffic safety grant. I told Ed about my idea to incorporate Buck in a traffic safety program as The Buckle-Up Dog. Ed thought it was a good idea.
I checked on the internet and found a person who makes packs for dogs and we designed a pack to fit Buck.
Buck's trading card was designed and purchased.
A Buck, The Buckle-Up Dog committee was formed that included:
Lt Paul LaValle, Cumberland Co. Sheriff's Dept
EMT Lillian Johnson, Millville Rescue Squad
Drafting Tech Karl Gleissner, Cumberland Co. Public Works
Raymond Reeve from the NJ Division of Highway Traffic Safety
Angela Burrows
Teresa Thomas, S.J. Traffic Safety Alliance
Artist Diane Roberts
Writer Judi Brett
This committee designed the Buck coloring book and decided on the five safety rules that apply to children. Also included in what became to be known as "Buck Stuff" was crayons, reflectorized zipper pulls, bookmarks and decals. It was decided to limit the program to first grade children in Cumberland County. Every first grade child, in Cumberland County, over the past three years has received this "Buck Stuff". If the teachers and principals request it, Buck makes a personal appearance.
There are approximately 2300 first grade children in Cumberland County and I estimate that about half of these have Buck visit.
Buck also attends many community events, where his "Stuff" is given out and he is present to attest to traffic safety, especially wearing a seat belt while riding in a vehicle.
Three Buck picture books have been produced over the years. They are the Adventures with Buck series. 1. "Ethan Conquers His Fears" is directed at first grade children, 2. "Connor's New Amiga" is directed at 2nd grade children and 3. "Emily and Poppy's Triumph" is directed at 4th and 5th grade children and senior citizens.
A fourth rhyming book for preschoolers is currently being developed.
Buck hopes to see everyone at one of his community events. |
