Not just autographs
In “Coming Soon to Your School Auditorium” [by Chris McNamara, which ran in some editions Sept. 17 and 24] the author wrote, “I don’t see how X Games BMX medalist Matt Wilhelm could impart anything but autographs to an audience of students.”
Although I do sign thousands of autographs at school assemblies every year, I also educate the students about bike safety, leading a drug- and tobacco-free lifestyle, and perseverance. My program largely centers on how I overcame a last-place finish in my first major pro competition to win two national titles and X Games medals in Korea, Brazil and the U.S.
Every principal in the hundreds of schools where I have performed has been impressed by the messages I deliver. Sure, the kids get excited about the bike tricks, but they also take away some valuable information that will motivate them to become better students and enjoy healthier, happier lives.
For more about my performances, visit probikeshows.com.
–Matt Wilhelm, Aurora
The good earth
Wow! This landlocked pseudo-agrarian from Texas really enjoyed your article on Terra Brockman and the interesting farm she writes about [“Dirty Stories” by Barbara Mahany, Sept. 24].
We have a good farmers market here in Dallas, but no poetic venue such as she to glorify it. You did a great job researching the piece. Neruda? It blows my mind. Thank you for it.
–George Smith, Dallas
