Exhibit opening and free talk for "Warrior Dogs & Faithful Companions"

The public is invited to a free program and exhibit opening of hand-carved military canine sculptures in honor of veterans' sacrifices on Thursday, Oct. 1, at the Hayes Presidential Library & Museums. "Warrior Dogs & Faithful Companions" features the signature wood forms of Ohio artist James Mellick, who will give a talk during the event about his sculptures and their meaning. The event begins at 6 pm. In the museum. The schedule is: • 6 pm- Doors open, and guests gather in the museum auditorium. Light refreshments will be served. • 6:30 to 7 pm- James Mellick gives a presentation about his work in the auditorium. • 7 to 7:30 pm - Visitors can view the exhibit in the museum rotunda. Due to space capacity, attendance is limited to 50, and advance RSVPs are required. RSVP to Meghan Wonderly-Kolbe at 419-332-2081, ext. 237, by 5 pm. Friday, Sept. 25. "Warrior Dogs & Faithful Companions" honors the sacrifices of veterans and the special bonds they have with their canine service counterparts. Each of the nine dogs in the installation represents a different military campaign, as well as the injuries that their human counterparts endure. "President Hayes viewed his military service as a defining event in his life and would spend his later years advocating for the rights of veterans," said Julie Mayle, Hayes Presidential curator of manuscripts. "Leading by his example, Hayes Presidential continues to honor our nation's veterans. We are excited to have Spieg