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Delayed by strong headwinds, Greg Mortenson flew into the Carson City Airport from Florida last night, hours behind schedule. He dashed over to the Carson City Nugget just in time to sign copies of his books, which were offered for sale to the crowd of people lining up to hear his presentation, and keep his scheduled interview with Nevada Appeal reporter Teri Vance. 

At 5:30 a private reception was held for those who helped the library purchase copies of Three Cups of Tea for local schools and the Capital City Reads committee members who worked for months to plan and execute ten weeks of programming. Mr. Mortenson, shy by nature, graciously mingled among the guests. He moved from table to table, making sure to speak with everyone and posing for pictures on request.

As the reception was taking place downstairs, throngs of people were queuing up on the landing outside the ballroom. The doors were scheduled to open at 5:45, but some had arrived two hours early to ensure a good seat.  The crowd consisted of people of all ages, from elementary-school-age children to seniors walking in with canes. Most were Carson City residents, but some came long distances for the opportunity to hear Mr. Mortenson speak. At least one woman had traveled from as far away as Tuscon, Arizona; another was from Aptos, California. Once the doors opened the room filled rapidly.

At 6:30,  the program began with introductions by Sara Jones, director of the Carson City Library, and Steve Neighbors, president of the Carson City Nugget. Both spoke of the need for a new library in Carson City. When he took the stage Mr. Mortenson whole heartedly endorsed the idea, relaying his love of libraries, speaking of the struggle it took to build a new library in his hometown of Boseman, Montana, and pledging to lend his support to the project.

Once Mr. Mortenson took the stage the audience was riveted to his presentation. He spoke of his childhood in Africa, his return to life in the U. S. as a high school student, his father, and his beloved sister Christa, who died of epilepsy in 1992. It was in her memory that Mr. Mortenson made his fateful trip to Pakistan, intending to place her favorite necklace on top of K2, the world’s second hightest peak. He described how his failed attempt changed the course of his life, when he was rescued and nursed to health by the small mountain community of Korphe. When he discoved that the town had no school, that its children were scratching their lessons into the dirt with sticks, he vowed to repay their kindness by building one for them. That was the birth of the Central Asia Institute and Mr. Mortenson’s life-long journey to bring education to the rural regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Mr. Mortenson repeatedly made the point that the education of girls brings huge rewards to impoverished communities. He also addressed political events in Pakistan and Afghanistan and how his experience in working with the mountain tribal leaders is influencing U. S. military leaders and politicians. Mr. Mortenson has gained the respect of both, and they seek his advice.

The audience was engaged and responsive throughout the pragram. Mr. Mortenson directly addressed the room, espcially the children. He asked questions and spoke of his own daughter and son.

Following his talk, Mr. Mortenson was available to sign copies of his books. The long line snaked through the room, but he took time with each person, asking and answering questions and posing for pictures. He seemed to especially enjoy talking with the children. He also gave away many copies of his books and a DVD made for teachers on the Pennies for Peace initiative. The line continued for two hours, with each and every person leaving with a smile. Toward the end of the signing, Mr. Mortenson was over heard saying how patient, polite and kind the group had been. Mr. Mortenson is truly a generous, gracious human being.

Mr. Mortenson had intended to spend the night in Carson City. But due to his schedule and weather conditions, he flew immediately to his next destination in California. He expressed disappointment in not being able to visit Carson City schools. If we’re lucky, he will be back.

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