Our accommodation last night was very kindly donated by the Double Tree Hilton in Reading The owner Craig Poole came to have a photo with the team and told us how he started the hotel not to make money but to improve the town and provide jobs for local people. We all felt how welcoming the hotel and each staff member was throughout our stay. Our gratitude to Craig and his team for accommodating us and for all that you're doing for your town.
Our last school visit of this section of the USA Peace Run was at Mount Penn Primary Center. The principal, Michelle Bleacher came out to greet the team and take a photo with us beside our motor home.
The school has a big focus on kindness. Kindness is often one of the first ideas that students have when we ask them for other words that describe peaceful behaviour.
We were happy to meet the school superintendent as we were waiting to go in.
Homagni leads the team in.
Nikolaus leads the team in the Peace Run song.
My country is here near the middle of Europe- Austria.
My country is also in the middle of Europe- it's a republic and you should Czech it out!
The students had prepared this incredible artwork of a peace sign collage which they then all signed on the back. We really appreciate you giving it to us and will take it as a memory of such a beautiful and enthusiastic visit to your school.
The teachers joined the team for a photo, on the right you can see the students peace collage.
The students sang a song for us with actions. Light a candle for peace is a perfect song choice and we were touched by their sweet performance.
A highlight of the ceremony was the Torch Bearer award being presnted to Lori Kreisher, the school admin assistant. She wasn't aware that she would receive the award until she was introduced by the principal and it was clear she is a much loved and valued member of the school community. Congratulations Lori!
After the main ceremony we had the chance to have the 2nd grade classes run with us and the torch, then take group photos with each class.
We left Mount Penn Primary with renewed energy for our afternoon of running through Pennsylvania into New Jersey.
Our running took us along beautiful country roads with lots of open space and friendly locals with open hearts.
Virangini sang Harita on her way as she set off on her run.
Mark stopped his car when he recognised the name of the Peace Run founder, Sri Chinmoy on our van. Thanks so much for stopping to offer your wish for peace and chat with us.
