Author Tour Stops in Moore Oklahoma to Make Meaningful Donation

Patti Wheeler and I have been traveling the country, speaking at schools, conferences and bookstores in Colorado, Oklahoma, Texas, Florida and Connecticut. We could not be happier with the enthusiastic response we’ve received from students, teachers and parents alike, and want to thank everyone for their support!During our stop in Moore, Oklahoma, Patti donated over 800 copies of Travels with Gannon & Wyatt Botswana to the students of Plaza Towers and Briarwood Elementary. Both schools were destroyed by the devastating tornadoes that touched down in Moore last May. Even more generous was Patti’s remarkable donation of $10,000, which will help build a beautiful new computer lab.Touring the town, it was heartbreaking to see what the people of Moore have had to endure. But Oklahomans are resilient. All across town reconstruction projects were underway—rubble was being cleared, framing was being put in place, new homes were being built. But what moved me most was their unwavering optimism. Just before we left, a parent walked into the lobby and made an announcement. “Our roof was finished today!” she said. “We’re moving back in!” The receptionist ran around her desk and embraced the woman, their eyes moist with tears, while young children jumped up and down ecstatically. Listening to their stories, it was inspiring to hear of the outpouring of support from around the country and we were certainly delighted to be able to do our part.To all the students we’ve met around the country, thank you for having us to your school! And to all those we will be visiting in the coming months, we look forward to meeting you!And remember students: Keep reading and keep writing. There's no better exercise for the mind.Happy Travels!