Inmate-trained dogs going to new homes

Michael F. Easley Governor		Theodis Beck Secretary
North Carolina Department of Correction

For Release: Media Advisory	Contact: Robert Boyer
Date: Oct. 25, 2004	Phone: (919) 716-3713

Inmate-trained dogs going to new homes Prisons to hold third graduation for pilot program The Division of Prisons will hold graduation ceremonies on Thursday, October 28, for A New Leash on Life-Prison Dog Training Program, its pilot community service program A select group of inmates at Marion Minimum Security Unit and Black Mountain Correctional Center for Women have been training homeless dogs in basic obedience skills to make them more adoptable. The five graduating dogs – two at Black Mountain and three at Marion – have been adopted. To implement the program, Marion worked with McDowell County and its animal shelter. Black Mountain joined with the Mimi Paige Foundation and the Asheville Humane Society. Journalists may interview program participants and obtain photographs and video of a demonstration showing what the dogs have learned. MARION LOCATION: Marion Minimum Security Unit Marion, North Carolina Take 1-40 to N.C. 226 (exit 86 Marion/Shelby). The minimum unit will be on your left. DATE & TIME: 11 a.m., October 28, 2004 BLACK MOUNTAIN Black Mountain Correctional Center for Women LOCATION: Black Mountain, North Carolina Take I-40 to the Black Mountain exit, old U.S. 70, drive through the town of Black Mountain for about two miles. You will see the Black Mountain Center on your right. At the stop light turn right onto North Fork Road. Take the 2nd drive to the right and the prison will be on the right. DATE & TIME: 2 p.m., October 28, 2004 NOTE: If you plan to attend, please notify the Public Affairs Office at (919) 716-3700. Reporters and photographers should bring a valid photo ID. # # #