LibertyRide - A Grassroots Journ3y

[ronpaulhawaii]

Here is the journal




[/url]


[url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APq252vsXjE]YouTube - Ride For Honesty - Statue of Liberty (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJUzw3jJ7AAhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APq252vsXjE)

LF acting weird vids on site, running late, gotta go
Day 1 Statue of Liberty to Trenton (http://libertyrider.com/day-1-statue-of-liberty-to-trenton/)

May 24th, 2009 1 comment (http://libertyrider.com/day-1-statue-of-liberty-to-trenton/#comments) Edit (http://libertyrider.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=631)

Barely made it and am feeling the miles deep in my bones. It’ll take a week or so to work up a rhythm. Till then the posts may be a bit short and staccato. Am uploading vids as we speak, and due to techical issues I may not get any pics up till tomorrow.
The day was very tough, but went well. Found some bugs I’ll need to sort out, and am bummed the best take at the SoL seems to not have made it. Ah well, ya puts in yer quarters and takes yer chances. I have a back up, but does not have the passion the later one did. Maybe it’ll be in my phone… I’ll look as I get other issues sorted
The big news is that the Newark Sheriffs Dept asked me if I want a job, “because they need more people around here discussing these kind of issues”. In fact, I had great responses from all three offices that were staffed on this holiday weekend. One vid I am uploading has “before and after” clips from the inaugural Sheriff canvass. I am just starting to develop my pitch and did not even broach the subject of getting the officers on cam. Almost didn’t get a set to the Union County Office, as I was prowling around looking for an open door (I had been directed by a city cop) I ran into one desk-jockey who wouldn’t even get out of the chair to look at what I had. Didn’t seem like a bad cop, but not a good one either. After realizing he was not going to lift a finger, I moved on, circled the building and found nothing, was about to give up and decided to go around back (where I had found the helpful city cop earlier. Hoping he was still there, I turned the corner to find he had been joined by… a sheriff. This guy was much more pleasant, and after hearing my spiel, said he would personally put the materials on The Sheriff’s Desk. I was stoked that persistence, and dogged determination paid off.
What made today extra tough was pedaling through an unknown metro-area. Metro areas are nasty places for a long distance ride. I was suprised we got no flats, lots of glass, etc.. to avoid. Navigating in cities is tough as well. Very easy to miss a turn (especially when there are no streets signs) and get into a bad place . We muddled trough it, but one wrong turn put us where few bikes tread, (an elevated expressway) we got off the next exit, but added three miles and it adds up quick. Then there was the parade detour which added a couple more miles to a growing day.
I asked two cops on the street, separately, for directions, both got handouts http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif One helped to refine my speech with. He was in his car talking to a girl on the street, when I rolled up and politely interrupted for directions, after answering I mentioned what I was doing and handed him some stuff. Then said, “I took an oath to defend the Constitution, not to defend Corporations, Bankers, and Corrupt Politicians. He liked that and I swear I saw that part of his memory light up behind his eyes. “Ya know, you’re right” he said.
The best was Newark though. The security gal minimally informed and called the Sargent down to take the materials. He came down with a HUGE man and I proceed to pitch. “I’m pedaling that bike out there from the Statue of Liberty to Alcatraz, because that is where I see our country headed, and we all NEED to do something about it.
I am working on the pitch to slam fascism. What I said today is variations of, “One definition of Fascism is the marriage of corporations and Government. The word scares some people, but if we don’t do something about it, history may just treat us more unfairly than it has the Germans.
Lots more on the mind, but I need to sleep and the second vid just started to load, Will post picds and vids tomorrow, (G-willing)
Till then, much aloha…

[jdmyprez_deo_vindice]

God bless you! May your ride be easy and most of all, may the people open their ears, hearts and minds to the gospel of liberty.

[forsmant]

What are you going to eat on this trip?

[Anti Federalist]

This is going to be interesting.

What I'm curious to see is the reaction to Mike's message in various parts of the country.

I have to say, in Newark NJ of all all places, I am very surprised to see a positive response right off the bat.

[Kludge]

What are you going to eat on this trip?

I hear chocolate chip cookies, "big" salads, and Fiji water increase cognitive ability over time.

[Paulitical Correctness]

+:):):)

[ClayTrainor]

Well Said Michael!

[ronpaulhawaii]

http://libertyrider.com/day-2-pa-rocks/

Day 2 - PA Rocks :)
May 25th, 2009 Goto comments (http://libertyrider.com/day-2-pa-rocks/#comments) Leave a comment (http://libertyrider.com/day-2-pa-rocks/#respond) Edit (http://libertyrider.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=644)

Ahhhhh… much better today. Glad to have left the eastern seaboard. I love the NYC area, but not for biking through. Anyhoo, this is about PA
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs052.snc1/4474_105786467952_663957952_2627651_1222149_n.jpg Here is the NJ Statehouse where my ma and bro left for home. As you can see, Tony has passed the second Gadsden off to Liberty Rider #3, Rob Pepe.
Rob was great to ride with. He is an animal about liberty and had a bunch of signs to plant on the way. He had bought the bike from a garage sale the day before adn was up late last nite painting it. He rode abou 20 miles and then got picked up to set up the BBQ. We got lost a heap of times (parade detours again. The good part of that is being able to get literature to people we ask direction from. Got the basic flyer into the hands of three local LEOs on parade duty and dropped off small stacks at a few convenience stores
After he left I made my way the rest of the 40 way and was finally joined by LibertyRider #4 *** (I’m going to have to start writing this stuff down - haha) My battery waqs dying and there is only a short QIK clip of him that I will have to find, later.
I talked to a few people when I stopped for lunch. One guy cringed when I used the term fascism, but later I saw him reading the entire handout and wonder where what was going through his mind. One girl recognized the corpo-gov definition of fascism immediately.
The big news was the picnic and getting a deep, Hawaiian kine hug from the local Sheriff in Chester County. Some things can be felt, and heart is one of them. The people of Chester County are lucky to have her.
She throws a mean shaka, as well
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v4697/20/99/508337915/n508337915_1951307_6773711.jpg
I’m very disappointed the QIK cam upload did not make it and will not use that for anything important again.
She brought a car down for us to use for photos and was accompanied by the Deputy Sheriff Harry (? sorry, need to start writing this stuff down.) who was kind enough to mention that I will always be welcome in Chester County.
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs095.snc1/4697_80365572915_508337915_1951301_2361759_n.jpg
The big news, for the ride, was that she was going to email all of the other sheriffs on on my route through PA :D. The really good thing though, was she was planning on asking Sheriff Mack to come speak in PA… Such is the effect of reaching out with courtesy and respect…
Just Do It!!! http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif
There are tons more pics from multiple sources. I was pleasantly surprised that a co-worker from Hawaii, Joe Graziano, had moved to NJ, found out I was on the road yesterday, and came visit today. He is a real photographer. I look forward to seeing the pics.
I’m sure I am missing a bit of news to report, but have to get some sleep. I felt my rhythm returning today, and should be able to write better in a few days. I again want to thank all of the PA folk who came down and gave me a fantastic welcome, (and a cool sticker)
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v4697/20/99/508337915/n508337915_1951368_7327982.jpg
much aloha, all

(sorry bout the formatting, have. too. sleep.)

nite all

[ClayTrainor]

Mike, you are such a huge asset to this movement, it's almost ridiculous!

Great job, keep up the awesome Campaign!

[torchbearer]

woot for mike.
you are always welcome in my home.

[ronpaulhawaii]

YouTube - Michael Maresco with Chester County, PA Sheriff (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UU0EL3QiqP0)

[itshappening]

thank you RPH, amazing!

[jdmyprez_deo_vindice]

Let me know if you plan on passing through Eastern Maryland or Lower Delaware as I would like to meet up with you and give you a great Delmarva welcome.

[angelatc]

Anybody want to "ride along?"

http://redstateeclectic.typepad.com/redstate_commentary/2009/05/a-rse-team-challenge.html

[forsmant]

Do you stop at local dive restaurants for dinner? I think I would if I were riding a bike across the USA. Or are the local Ron Paul people feeding you. I am very curious as to what you are eating. I would engage conversation with the locals about Ron Paul at dinner time. Or are you just eating subway or something like it?

I am not mocking, just curious.

[Njon]

You said at http://www.ronpaulforums.com/showpost.php?p=2136041&postcount=86 that you wanted to be able to talk about Dr. Vieira/the militia on Freedom Watch.

I submitted a question in the suggestion forum at http://freedomwatch.uservoice.com/pages/19304-freedom-watch-episode-16-may-27/suggestions/200056-michael-maresco-s-cross-country-journey to help you get the chance to talk about Dr. Vieira and Sheriff Mack.

Please vote it up, folks!

[ronpaulhawaii]

Do you stop at local dive restaurants for dinner? I think I would if I were riding a bike across the USA. Or are the local Ron Paul people feeding you. I am very curious as to what you are eating. I would engage conversation with the locals about Ron Paul at dinner time. Or are you just eating subway or something like it?

I am not mocking, just curious.

Just arrived Mechanicsberg, PA. 70 miles in a cold rain. Nasty is a good word for it.

Will blog later, but my favorite crab has asked this question twice and don't want to make him ask 3 times.

Breakfast is coffee, a bread thing, and some fruit.

Lunch is usually a gas station/convenience store where I can usually leave a stack of goodies. Sometimes Subway, but the corpo - joints rarely allow lit drops.

Dinner is whatever is close and inexpensive. I usually engage the motel owners and leave literature with them.

Tonight though, Harrisburg grassroots are taking me out for a bite :)

cy'all l8r

m

[MelissaCato]

Awesome !!

I wanna do this on horseback, darn it. :D

[Deborah K]

Awesome !!

I wanna do this on horseback, darn it. :D

Me too! Haha!

Michael, if you hit San Diego, you know where I live. Only this time you're staying in a bedroom, not on the couch! Love you. Stay safe.

[kathy88]

Take a well deserved break. The weather here was NASTY today. Should be warmer tomorrow, but more rain. Sorry.

[ronpaulhawaii]

Lancaster PA
May 26th, 2009


70 miles in a cold rain today. But Harrisburg/Mechanicsberg folk definitely know how to make a man comfortable. Many mahalos to Tim Shoemaker for getting me a room with a Jacuzzi. Many mahalos to Don and Monique Shoemaker for treating me to an awesome dinner. Many mahalos to Seth Shoemaker (are you seeing a pattern here - haha) for coming down to say hi and get on the vid I will soon be mixing. Tim deserves special mention for being the first to get on board the grassroots team we have built. We all know how no-one likes to be first, and Tim filling that crucial slot was key


Again for Scott Davis who did a lot of work getting me here and helping me navigate Harrisberg, and finally, Sandra who came down and brought me more of the PA handouts she designed and had printed at her company.


The rain is not conducive to canvassing so got maybe a dozen handouts out. But, one thing we did get, thanks to Lisa from Lancaster, was our first TV interview. I rarely feel comfortable with my performance, hopefully it came out good…


The best part of the ride was being led by Lisa through a tricky navigation. There is nothing like live GPS (Grassroots Positioning System) even better when it is a cute bubbly hardcore r3VOLutionary.


I’d write more, but have been getting about 4 hours sllep for the last month and I only have 45 miles tomorrow, so I am going to take advantage of the bed Tim got me. I’ll try to get the vid from today up tomorrow am. For now enjoy this from our friend in Philly, Rob Pepe



YouTube - Liberty Rider - Michael Maresco "Ride for Honesty" Memorial Day 2009 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u5nQKG-08ZI)



PS - Tune into Freedom Watch every week, regardless of the fact that they are going to report on the trip for the rest of the journey and I will be on between 2:30 and 3
onward and forward
http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif

[ronpaulhawaii]

YouTube - Liberty Rider Mike Marasco May 26 2009 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4WGMfK30XTc)

will blog tomorrow...

ZZzzzzzzZZZZZZzzzzzzZZZZz

:)

[ronpaulhawaii]

The First Mountain Was A Doozy
May 28th, 2009
Timmonds Mountain… I was warned… The locals shook their heads seeing the book-mobile I was pulling. That was a bit intimidating, but, if life was easy it would be boring, and like our r3VOLution, we can’t let seemingly insurmountable obstacles stop us from moving forward. We can’t let people scare us off our task because they can’t imagine themselves doing something extraordinary. We must move forward, boldly. They may slow us down, they may beat the hell out of us, but winners never quit and just keep eyes on the goal and noses to the grindstone.

It. Was. Brutal. I ain’t kidding, at all. Look at this map, and notice that I climbed over 1000 ft in less than 3 miles

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs052.snc1/4474_106742392952_663957952_2641748_2959038_n.jpg
Now, consider that I was in a fog, on a road that often had no room for a shoulder…

I started out strong, the pedal-elec system helps, but certainly cannot pull the load I am carrying. In fact, even pedaling as hard as I could, the brains began to overheat about halfway up. What happens when it overheats is it shuts off, and I am left to make that next section, to the safety of a shoulder, on my own. By the time I got to the top I was going 50ft, resting and letting the brains cool, repeatedly…

A local had told me the road splits into a truck route near the top, and I could take the truck route because the road down is very steep. He said it would mean about 10 more miles and a few more hills but would save my brakes. By the time I got to the fork, I wanted no part of 10 more miles a a few more hills, so decided to buy a new set of brakes if I had to and just get the hell off this mountain.

Big Mistake. I wasn’t even close to the top…

But, perseverance and determination are the qualities of those who get things done, and I was blessed to be born with both. I finally made it to unmistakable top and was incredibly thankful to see the fog was not as bad on the other side. So after a short rest to catch my breath, I had quite the exhilarating ride down the mountain and was safely back into civilization.

By this time most of the locals had heard about, “some guy on a bike pulling a trailer over the Timmonds” so had quite an easy time of getting them to listen why. I slowly made my way to this nice $40 motel seeding a message of liberty all along the way. I stopped at an Ice Cream Stand and got a cone to celebrate. A man walked up and asked about my bike, I gave him my spiel and the next thing I knew I had a dinner of home cooked, farm raised, (and delicious) chicken cassarole and fresh salad. I was famished, and it was heavenly. We talked as I ate. The wife had liked Huckabee, and Paul, but “didn’t want to waste her vote.” We had a nice talk about voting your conscience and how the whole “waste your vote” thing is a farce. Voting for the lessor of two evils, is still evil…

The rest of ride was fairly uneventful, it hardly rained so I was able to seed the route better. That always make me feel good. Convenience stores are pretty good about letting me leave stacks on their shelves. I encourage people to take “sunday drives” with lit and stop for a little something at these stores and ask. You turn one good mind in a small town, and you can turn an entire town.

I had my first flat as well. Here is the culprit, the nemesis of a man on a bike…

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs012.snc1/4474_106754652952_663957952_2641862_750661_n.jpgTh e culprit

It is a shard of the steel belting from a blown tire and will go through any tire…, no biggie though. I had ~70 flats on the last trip, hopefully I have better luck this time, but, such things happen and we just deal with them. I’m just glad it was just drizzling…

Now, for the reason I am still in Fannettsburg. On the mountain, when I changed a battery, I failed to secure the trailer properly and the chargers dropped out somewhere. Luckily, there are decent folk in these parts and I easily found someone who would not take my money to go drive over the mountain and look. We had no success (foggy night…) , but it was very heartening to have people go out of their way to help a stranger. So rather than power over another mountain with no assistance, I decided to get the spare charger sent from home. Even better, my brother, who loves road trips, decided to deliver it in person and he will be here in a few minutes http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif

So, it was stupid mistake on my part, but I figure whatever happens is for the best. I just take it in stride and continue on. Perhaps it was best because some wicked storms have come through today and I would have been in the mountains for that, as well.

While I would have loved to have spun this story so as to relieve my embarrassment, this is the Ride for Honesty - http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif

[ClayTrainor]

I love reading your updates Michael, and seeing you on Freedom Watch was a trip :cool:

I just threw down another $17.76, for a new tire :)

[JoshLowry]

You rock. I think that goes without saying.

Stay safe out there!

[ronpaulhawaii]

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v4474/185/124/663957952/n663957952_2645537_2912792.jpg

[acptulsa]

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v4474/185/124/663957952/n663957952_2645537_2912792.jpg

Much more fun to recharge the battery! Once you get to me you've conquered the last mountain for some seven or eight hundred miles. Bad news is then comes the Rockies. With all due respect to you Easterners, the Rockies make both the Ozarks and the Alleghenies look like speed bumps.

[ronpaulhawaii]

Mountains Must Be Crossed
May 30th, 2009 [/URL][URL="http://libertyrider.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=684"]
(http://libertyrider.com/mountains-must-be-crossed/#comments)

3rd day in the Alleghenies. There is one more major ridgeline in my path, then it will just be hills. Beautiful countryside, tough pedaling.


What makes this country great though, is the people. I talked to quite a few yesterday, despite what you may see in the media (including New Media), people are more aware of the rising police state and the fraudulence of the “establishment” than many people give them credit for. People were very appreciative of the info I brought,(especially the PArevolution handout). When I get around to explaining creeping fascism, they are not afraid to look at it for what it is. Basically, the country folk I am meeting give me hope for America. Again, I encourage people to get in their cars and take “sunday drives”, looking for people in their yards, on the road, etc. and just give them some info. Most of these folk are just not aware that there are others who share their concerns. It is our job to let them know and give them an opportunity to help…


The ride yesterday was not easy. I am going to go ahead and spend the $400 on a real bicycle Computer/GPS. I am very tired of missing turns and having to find a signal so I can unpack the trailer, get the computer out, re-route, repack the trailer, etc… I added about 10 miles to the day yesterday, because of no street signs… I am real thankful to the farmer I met who helped me out and gave me a route over the last ridge of the day.


A friend on LibertyForest.com mentioned how the Rockies make the Alleghenies look like speed biumps. I want to clear something up about that. The eastern mountain roads were built before the days of heavy equipment, while the size of the mountains are not as high, the roads are much more steep and winding, In the Rockies I can ride on interstates, the grades are low and the routes as direct as possible. IOW, give me the Rockies any day. The Alleghenies are the hardest I have encountered, including the last trip, over Texas Canyon, through Texas Hill Country, etc.


Finally, I want to talk about the book drops. If you have read the site, you would Know that it was never my intention to pedal from sheriff office to sheriff office. I did that in Jersey because the Jersy people were not materializing and the offices I went to were pretty much on my route, but there is no way I will personally be able to deliver tyhese books. The intent was always to have a local supporter meet me on the road, take the books and deliver them themselves. This is much better as the whole idea was to increase communication locally, this ride just gives the local supporters a good excuse to go and introduce themselves. This goes for the Governors as well, If local supporters do not help arrange a meeting, or agree to deliver them during office hours, I have no choice but to pedal on.


The long and the short of it is this ride is not about me. It is an event for us all, and will be what we all make of it. I have more on my plate than most of you can possibly imagine. Any help increasing the success of this trip will be rewarding in many ways. Regardless of such assistance, I will make the best of the hand I have, but need the help of the grassroots to maximize the effect of this effort.


And with that, I will be packing up and getting on the road. I just have one more major ridgeline to cross and that is only a few miles away. See y’all on the other side


pedal pedal


PS- Firefox has just crashed 4xs trying to add photos, will try again l8r…

[Oyate]

Was a bit slow to uptake but first post made it for the weekend edition of Freedoms Phoenix. We have Stu in Flagstaff signed up to help and Ed and I have discussed support options for you when you come through AZ. We'll get it together by the time you are here :)

[ronpaulhawaii]

Was a bit slow to uptake but first post made it for the weekend edition of Freedoms Phoenix. We have Stu in Flagstaff signed up to help and Ed and I have discussed support options for you when you come through AZ. We'll get it together by the time you are here

Thanks Trevor :)

[/URL]http://libertyrider.com/day-7-high-peaks-and-high-spirits/ (http://libertyrider.com/day-7-high-peaks-and-high-spirits/)

Day 7 High Peaks, and High Spirits
May 31st, 2009
(http://libertyrider.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=704)

Yesterday was quite the day. Two big peaks to cross, the first was the biggest, the second the highest (and I was already at elevation). I am getting stronger, able to avoid the crawler gear for the lower grade climbs. I am still taking rests on the steeps, but not the 50ft intervals of Timmonds Mt.


http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs052.snc1/4474_107574052952_663957952_2655980_3913435_n.jpg


http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs012.snc1/4474_107574057952_663957952_2655981_6595266_n.jpg


http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v4474/185/124/663957952/n663957952_2655982_54431.jpg



It was a beautiful sunny day. I was able to talk to plenty of folk and get out the lit. Left stacks in a few stores, mostly talking to farmers and people out working in the yards. I have found that I am targeting differently than on the RP ride. Where-as last time I was more looking for voters and seeking out the elderly, this time I am more looking for activists and seeking out the younger folk. Most readily agree with my assessment and are very thankful I stopped by. Hopefully it turns into people contacting the PA folk and getting aboard the r3VOLution. I emphasize that need for action, hopefully, it works…


While getting over them dang peaks was a bit of a… high point (haha) what really got my spirits up was accomplishing the primary mission of getting books to Sheriffs. I pedaled into Somerset and was disappointed to find the office closed, but that did not deter me from making a second effort and I found the Jail where I convinced the LT in charge to come out hear my spiel. He was really impressed with the bike and I’m sure that helped as I went into the reason for the visit. Again, I found a person who agrees with the facts I present. Especially about the fact that we are being lied to. He agreed to see that the books get to the Sheriff Monday, and I am kinda stoked that they will be looking them over in the Jail Control Room till then…


http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs052.snc1/4474_107574092952_663957952_2655984_2918930_n.jpg



Another thing to note is that I went through Shanksville where flight 93 crashed and set in motion the War on Terror that the fascists are using to instigate their police state. I could not help myself and had to hand out fliers to a family that was at the Memorial Chapel…


http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs052.snc1/4474_107574072952_663957952_2655983_1450686_n.jpg



The final event of the day was the last 10 miles. I got to my target town, and the only motel was a Days Inn. I usually avoid the big chains so asked a semi local on a Harley about motels further down the road. He told me there would be more here in Mt Pleasant and it was pretty much a downhill run. Both of those statements turned out to be false, while there was a large downhill, there were also some steep uphills that are killers at the end of a day. Worse, there is only one motel here, a Holiday Inn (corpo-yuck) that is three miles off route down a large hill. As it was getting late I had no choice but to bite the bullet. There is a sliver lining though. I finagled a discount, a free dinner, and it comes with a free breakfast, but more importantly, with free internet I was finally able to use my phone while online and spent an hour on the phone with tech support and may have dialed the phone in to avoid having to buy the $400 GPS unit. While the GPS would be very handy and helpful for knowing distance and speed, etc… That is not as critical as knowing where I am and being able to map out without dragging out the computer. So we will see how this works…


Finally, I thought you all might like seeing the elevation charts comparing yesterdays’ mountain climb, to todays’ multi hill climbs, but for some reason FireFox keeps crashing if I try to insert photos, (grrrrrrrr…) Till I work that out, the album is here (LF folks dont have that problem ;) )


Yesterday
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v4474/185/124/663957952/n663957952_2656017_3642449.jpg


Today
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs052.snc1/4474_107575567952_663957952_2656018_855743_n.jpg


(http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=105503&id=663957952)
[url]http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=105503&id=663957952 (http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=105503&id=663957952)



pedal pedal

with many mahalos to those who have joined the ride in support

:)

[JoshLowry]

I love reading your updates/looking at your pics!

Lather that sunscreen on amigo!

[ronpaulhawaii]

OK, I had a few glitches, including having to reformat my computer, but am getting back up to speed... Have some catching up to do. Having a LOT of trouble converting video from my phone, ah well, moving on

Day8 was quite the day. Very beautiful, hilly, countryside. In trying to catch up I will have to be brief.

The high point of the day was being met by fellow RPFer Paul Wortman. I was stopped at a convenience store having lunch, it was hot so I was tucked in the shade behind the AirPump when a friendly face popped up and asked "Hollywood"? I was a bit perplexed at first till he mentioned RPFs and then said "Hawaii" at that point we were on the same page. His is the video I am having trouble with, and I look forward to getting the time to order the Cam you guys raised the money for, (never enough time in the day...). I can't tell you how great it was to be met by a fellow RPFer in his home county. Great guy, great spirit, great laugh. Haha - made my day... He kindly took the books to deliver so it was mission accomplished for Washington County. Thanks Paul.

It was a beautiful day so I managed to seed plenty of fliers and talk to quite a few people on the route. People are more accepting of the fascism message that I expected, I had one Obama supporter who kept trying to avoid the subject, I just planted some seeds in his mind and can only hope they take. He was a bit perplexed as I ran down a list of broken promises and how he felt about that... Another group I hit was a firehouse crew. At first they seemed a bit apprehensive, but as I went on they warmed up. When I got to my final point that we need them to stand up and start fighting the fascists politically, to avoid worse, they were all nodding their heads in agreement. The OathKeepers Patch on my bike helped emphasize another aspect of my pitch

Finally, there was a bit of drama and near disaster on the road. A long section of the highway had them dang rumble strips, which are great for car safety and keeping them off the edge where am, when the shoulder gets narrow I am forced into them and they ralltle the hell out of my and the bike. It seems the rattleing loosened an axle on my bike and as I was flying down a hill trying to make my target by sunset it came loose when I could not avoid a large pot hole, came half out of socket and bent. I was flying when I felt a sudden drag, couldn't turn till I had slowed down, when I finally got stopped I saw the damage. Didn't care to take pictures at the time due to the setting sun, but here is the after effect

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v4474/185/124/663957952/n663957952_2676233_8379670.jpg

It could have been real bad had it came all the way out, but my lord is with me and reminded me of the need for continual bike maintenence... You guys would have laughed to see me on the side of the road fixing it with a multi-tool and a flintstone hammer...

Due to that delay I ended up a few miles short of Wheeling and was in a tiny WV burg where there was barely enough cel service to get one phone call out that I was safely in a little motel (who didn't take my card - which is another story- haha) That was the beginning of the blog backload I am trying to repair now. Bottom line is I made it safe and have continued on.

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs012.snc1/4474_108737162952_663957952_2676234_6460058_n.jpg

more to follow...

much aloha

m

[DirtMcGirt]

I love reading your updates/looking at your pics!

Lather that sunscreen on amigo!

I second that!!! :D

[FSP-Rebel]

Yo Mike, are you gonna swing thru NH for the Porcupine Freedom Festival June 25-28? I'd like to shake your hand for all the activism you're doing.

[AdamT]

Yo Mike, are you gonna swing thru NH for the Porcupine Freedom Festival June 25-28? I'd like to shake your hand for all the activism you're doing.

He's heading west, almost to Ohio.

[speciallyblend]

hey mike . i do not mean to tease but 2906 ft??? those are ant hills??? hmmmm wonder why mike is going south of the colorado mtns, snickers. not ready for 11,000 to 13,000ft peaks hehe snickers. much love mike:) side note the wv mtns are awesome use to live in snowshoe wv before i moved to colorado!!

mike depending on when you get to new mexico and how well my wife recovers. i would love to join you biking somewhere in new mexico,since i know you chickened out on the 11-13,000 ft passes hehe:) sorry have to tease you:)

[2orb]

Sunday May 31st I am running errands and just before 5pm pull into the local gas station/convenience store. All the parking spots are full with the exception of the one on the end. As I pull up to it I see a bicycle with cart attached parked in it and think WTF. Then I see the signage...

Speak to Michael for just five minutes and you’ll experience a true patriot at work. I am re-inspired. Follow his progress, get out and meet him, and help him spread the Liberty message.

[angelatc]

He's heading west, almost to Ohio.

He's almost through Ohio! If you check his spreadsheet, you can kind of see where he is, by following the money. :)

http://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=r6FiCAeZILLoeogom_okNyg

[ronpaulhawaii]

Yo Mike, are you gonna swing thru NH for the Porcupine Freedom Festival June 25-28? I'd like to shake your hand for all the activism you're doing.

I sure wish I could make PorcFest and appreciate the sentiments, but if you want to do something much better than shake my hand, get the bookset and deliver it to your sheriff ;) That would give me strength, and make my day... Maybe next year, enjoy...


hey mike . i do not mean to tease but 2906 ft??? those are ant hills??? hmmmm wonder why mike is going south of the colorado mtns, snickers. not ready for 11,000 to 13,000ft peaks hehe snickers. much love mike side note the wv mtns are awesome use to live in snowshoe wv before i moved to colorado!!

mike depending on when you get to new mexico and how well my wife recovers. i would love to join you biking somewhere in new mexico,since i know you chickened out on the 11-13,000 ft passes hehe sorry have to tease you

Big talk there, Kenny. Why don't you ask TruckingMike about Texas Canyon and it's overgrades? ;). And as I said in another post, give me the Rockies over the Alleghenies any day. There is a reason that France sends it's tour team to PA to train and not you beloved low grade peaks. The day you pedal over Timmonds Mountain is the day I'll think you ain't just talking out yer ass :D


Sunday May 31st I am running errands and just before 5pm pull into the local gas station/convenience store. All the parking spots are full with the exception of the one on the end. As I pull up to it I see a bicycle with cart attached parked in it and think WTF. Then I see the signage...

Speak to Michael for just five minutes and you’ll experience a true patriot at work. I am re-inspired. Follow his progress, get out and meet him, and help him spread the Liberty message.

Paul!!! :) I hope I got your name right... am real sorry I still haven't got your video up, it look great on my phone but I can't get it off my phone in working order (I am such the e-gnoramus...) You really made my day, dude. Thanks again


He's almost through Ohio! If you check his spreadsheet, you can kind of see where he is, by following the money.

[/URL][url]http://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=r6FiCAeZILLoeogom_okNyg (http://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=r6FiCAeZILLoeogom_okNyg)

hehe

Still Catching Up

My final day in WV was great. Practically all downhill to the Ohio River. I stopped and talked to some Gas Station guys asking to clarify direction (they were stoked to get an Obama Deception DVD and didn't realize it also had a bonus track of Freedom to Fascism - haha). They got me to do something I hate, turning around and gpoing backward, but the new directions avoided an legendary hill and followed a bike path along the creek that coasted me into town. At one point the bike path was closed so I asked a cop about a detour and he told me to just go around the signs, the path was fine - haha. He was on traffic duty so I decided not to pitch him, but he gave me great direction to the Sheriff Office.

The Sheriff of Ohio County had just left, but the Chief came out. He was basically all business, politely heard my spiel, and genuinely thanked me for stopping by. I was expection to make up for lost time so did not try to drag him into a conversation, just planted my seeds and moved on. The guard was much more personable, but the Chief seemed a decent enough guy. I imagine if he had seen the bike, as others have, he would have been a bit warmer...

It was a bit tricky getting out of town, made a wrong turn or two, asked a heap of directions (and got rid of more fliers ;) ) till I was finally on the (cool old) bridge heading west into OH

http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs052.snc1/4474_108737172952_663957952_2676235_7007887_n.jpg

There were no entering OH signs, But for the heck of it you may get a kick out of this one I forgot to put on the last post

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v4474/185/124/663957952/n663957952_2676232_7233935.jpg

I was pretty stoked; had just done a drop and was enterring a new state (where the land would flatter). There was one long hill, gettiing away from the river, but nothing like the grades of PA. But, before I got there, I came across the local congressional office of one Charlie Wilson.

Now, remember, I was trying to make up lost time, so I debated stopping for about... a nanosecond... and turned up into the drive. The Lady at the desk was very nice and we had a bit of a conversation about 1207. Seeing as I know very little of the congressman, I tailoered the pitch to suit, and after hearing her promise to pass my concerns on to her boss, left a few fliers (and a CfL constitution) and went on my way.

After leaving I called LibertyRider#3 Rob Pepe and asked him to look into Congressman Wilson and do a followup call. It turns out that Rep. Wilson is a Blue Dog Democrat on the Financial Services Committee, and that the staffer was impressed enough with my stop as to give Rob the name and numbers for the Legislayive Assistant in DC, whom Rob has since been lobbying. The original post on this side bar story made the front page of CfL (http://www.campaignforliberty.com/blog.php?view=19217) and is continueing to develop. As I have stated, if we get another co-sponsor out of this, I will have to learn to dance a jig.

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v4474/185/124/663957952/n663957952_2676236_2422993.jpg

The final encounter of the day was anothr sheriff, whose office ws less that an mile off route. I was a bit taken aback when I saw the Sheriff's tank out front

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs052.snc1/4474_108739777952_663957952_2676264_1709209_n.jpg

and wondered what would encounter. But have never let a peice of military hardware disuade me from my goal and went on in. Again the Sheriff was not around and I met with a deputy. Again the officer was a bit shocked to see me standing there, wearing a gadsden flag hat and expressing my displeasure at being negatively profiled by the DHS because of my political beliefs, but at least he could see the bike parked in front and warmed up as I explained why I was delivering the books and the significance of each...

From there I pedaled on to a small, seemingly quiet, country motel and got off the road before dark. What happened in the middle of the night I will save for the next post, - haha.

pedal pedal

:)

m

[acptulsa]

Big talk there, Kenny. Why don't you ask TruckingMike about Texas Canyon and it's overgrades? ;). And as I said in another post, give me the Rockies over the Alleghenies any day. There is a reason that France sends it's tour team to PA to train and not you beloved low grade peaks. The day you pedal over Timmonds Mountain is the day I'll think you ain't just talking out yer ass :D

You really, really do have a point. You just don't see ten percent grades out west--at least not often. But ol' Kenny has a point, too. It's hard to breathe good and heavy at 13K. I think you're wise to go the New Mexico route, though Glorietta still ain't going to be the cakewalk that western Oklahoma and the Texas Panhandle will be.

The good news--the Mojave is downhill from Kingman and doesn't present any tough grades until almost Barstow, iirc.

Take care of yourself--and congrats on conquering the first range!

[angelatc]

From there I pedaled on to a small, seemingly quiet, country motel and got off the road before dark. What happened in the middle of the night I will save for the next post, - haha.

pedal pedal

:)

m

OOOH A cliffhanger! There wasn't a guy named "Norman" there, I hope!

[jdmyprez_deo_vindice]

I hope you know that you are really making me want to get a bike and start my own route. Maybe I could go from the Florida Keys up to Northern tip of Maine.

[ronpaulhawaii]

YouTube - LPNTV 06032009 001 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-5UIOn8jFi0)

[ronpaulhawaii]

OOOH A cliffhanger! There wasn't a guy named "Norman" there, I hope!

:D


I hope you know that you are really making me want to get a bike and start my own route. Maybe I could go from the Florida Keys up to Northern tip of Maine.

:cool:

[ronpaulhawaii]

A night to remember (http://libertyrider.com/a-night-to-remember/)

June 4th, 2009 No comments (http://libertyrider.com/a-night-to-remember/#respond) Edit (http://libertyrider.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=724)

Well, I could drag out the cliffhanger (and actually wish I had the time to, hehe), but I wont. I hope it is not too anti-climatic, for sure it was not mundane.

There was a very pleasant little motel out in the middle of farmland, OH. Gentle rolling hills, a well kept lawn and freshly painted exterior. The proprietress sold candles and potpourri in the office. Except for the viciously barking dog, it seemed a perfect place to spend a quiet night.

The trouble started with my computer. It was acting very peculiar; wouldn’t log on, and locking up with a weird error message I had never seen before. Needless to say this is a distressing situation for a guy blogging a bike trip across the country, with countless details and contacts that must be kept on top of, lest the backlog get out of hand and everyone becomes more in the dark than you all are already. It had to be fixed, or I had to buy a new one, (no, I would not have spent your money on that…) So, I got to it. Was blessed to have an Indiana supporter Joyce Morrel contact me for another reason, and she was kind enough to hook me up with Jerry Titus, who knows a thing or three about computers, so we went through the standard diagnostics and it remained… weird. ugh.

After a while I realized that reformatting was probably my last option and began the process of backing up the data critical to the ride. By the time I got to the point of hitting that dreaded reformat key, it was midnight, the witching hour…

I should mention that the night was stormy. Not the downpours of Hawaii; not the blizzards of NY; not even the gales of the sea. No, it was the kind of thunderstorms only the midwest can dish out. Completely wild and crazy. I mean, I love a good thunderstorm, but this was off the scale, crackling bolts and shocking booms, near and far. I don’t think I had every seen such fury. And there I was nervously reformatting my lifeline to the world at large…
But that wasn’t the half of it…

Around 1 am, I was suddenly startled by the sound of a car-horn being relentlessly triggered outside my door. I was like, WTH??? So I got up, opened the door to the pouring rain, looked out, and there was a red SUV with someone, obviously interested in waking the entire motel, sitting behind the wheel. It was raining too hard to see much and I sure as hell was not going to “get involved”. I was one door down from the office and figured the management would be there shortly, I had my computer to work on. So I shook my head, closed the door, and my ears, and got back to work. Before long, I saw the flashing lights of the police, so stuck my head back out to see what was up, only to find the proprietress outside my door in a nightgown, she looked at me and said, “she’s a psycho”, I was like, “oookaaaayyyy…” Can’t recall what I said back, but eventually closed the door, by now it is about 2 am. I figured the cops had the psycho under control so went back to work on the box.

Meanwhile, the storms raged and the excitement had not begun to abate…
After years of working on stage I am pretty good at concentrating amid myriad distractions, but suddenly, there was even more activity out side than before, people running back and forth in front of the picture window, raised voices, flashing lights… again I was like, WTH

FIRE!!!!

O.M.G.

I just stood in my doorway and shook my head. The cop put the psycho in the back of the car, people were emptying their rooms, the proprietress in her nightgown stood there aghast, the lightening flashed, the thunder roared, and the rain relentlessly pounded down.

It was mayhem

and 3 in the morning.

I looked around and saw no smoke, no flames, I asked the proprietress, “uh, where’s the fire?” She answered that she didn’t know, someone smelled smoke. I was like, for the second time, “ooookkaaaayyy…” I looked back into my room and inventoried my stuff, scattered about, and knew that the flames would have to be eminent before I went out in the rain.

As my computer continued it’s reformatting paces…

Finally, a drenched guest came back to report the smell of smoke was drifting from elsewhere.

Complete madness… Guests milling about in the rain began to reenter their rooms, the cop came back with the same report, the psycho in the back of the cop car couldn’t reach the horn, the proprietress looked at me, still aghast. I shook my head and said goodnight, closed the door, and watched my computer finish it’s paces, loaded some critical data, and went to sleep for a precious few hours thinking, “Well at least it’ll make for an interesting blog…

I hope you enjoyed it

pedal pedal

http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif

[AdamT]

LOL shady cheap motels are the best.

[ronpaulhawaii]

Columbus OH
June 6th, 2009

Sadly, I was a bit rushed due to computer rebuild and failed to take pics or Vid at the YAL meeting I attended. Did my first ever “speech” http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_surprised.gif - went well… The YAL group at Ohio State is just getting going and I hope all give them our support and encouragement. They also, gave me great OH specific lit to seed he route with… No pics as I got rid of the last before I left.

The rides were good, am wondering who stole the dome from the top of the capitol though, lulz
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs052.snc1/4474_108739782952_663957952_2676265_3587321_n.jpg
No idea why the frown... was a good day...

pedal pedal

[TheState]

Columbus OH
June 6th, 2009

Sadly, I was a bit rushed due to computer rebuild and failed to take pics or Vid at the YAL meeting I attended. Did my first ever “speech” http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_surprised.gif - went well… The YAL group at Ohio State is just getting going and I hope all give them our support and encouragement. They also, gave me great OH specific lit to seed he route with… No pics as I got rid of the last before I left.



It was a great speech and very motivational. I can't wait for fall quarter to start. Thanks again for stopping in and talking, even after a long day on the road.

[ronpaulhawaii]

It was a great speech and very motivational. I can't wait for fall quarter to start. Thanks again for stopping in and talking, even after a long day on the road.

You are very welcome, thanks for having me. Am real sorry we didn't get a chance to take pics, had a radio thing to do and they wouldn't let me go. Keep up the great work and if you need anything, I'm easy to find...

On another note, just found this in the forum...


Hi Mike.

I really appreciate what you're doing. You really picked 2 great books and a great DVD to promote the ideas of liberty from different perspectives. Since you missed Sheriff McGinn in Delaware County (on account of me, so I'm told), I met with him this morning and delivered Ron Paul's “Revolution”, Richard Mack's “County Sheriff”, and the Edwin Vieira DVD.

Keep up the great work.

Thanks.
Go Grassroots :)

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v4695/94/25/1284229383/n1284229383_30197269_8386141.jpg

[Oyate]

Hey Mike or anyone,

The trailer. Is that purpose-built for cargo? There's a guy selling one of those kid-carrier trailers and I wonder if it would be good for utility purposes.

[ronpaulhawaii]

Hey Mike or anyone,

The trailer. Is that purpose-built for cargo? There's a guy selling one of those kid-carrier trailers and I wonder if it would be good for utility purposes.

Aloha!

This trailer?

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs052.snc1/4474_103748547952_663957952_2595418_1434986_n.jpg

Austin MU gets a big shout-out for that trailer!. They made a chip-in and bought me that trailer. (After I pedaled into their town with the keiki kine trailer that you describe above :D)

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v264/185/124/663957952/n663957952_1122673_8425.jpg

Wooot for Austin, and the Great State of Texas!

The kid kind sufficed me for over a thousand miles, it is a bit awkward for packing, but I had a ton of stuff... none are watertight either, (though I doubt that'll be a problem... zipplocks are the solution...)

as long as the axles, wheels look good... pack light :p

I look forward to seeing y'all

:)

On another note, Just found these kind words...

http://www.thesimpleamerican.org/political-hotseat/michaelmarescoridingforyourliberty (http://www.thesimpleamerican.org/political-hotseat/michaelmarescoridingforyourliberty)


Political Hotseat (http://www.thesimpleamerican.org/political-hotseat) >
MICHAEL MARESCO: RIDING FOR YOUR LIBERTY

posted Jun 7, 2009 4:05 PM by Jordan Staniscia [ updated Jun 7, 2009 4:12 PM ] Larry Gregg, Contributing writer, www.simpleamerican.org (http://www.simpleamerican.org)

http://www.thesimpleamerican.org/_/rsrc/1244416161786/political-hotseat/michaelmarescoridingforyourliberty/image002.jpg (http://www.thesimpleamerican.org/political-hotseat/michaelmarescoridingforyourliberty/image002.jpg?attredirects=0)
Every so often a very brave person, willing to sacrifice so very much, rises above the masses in an attempt to elevate every ones life.

Today I salute Michael Maresco, for committing himself to this task. His “Ride For Honesty” truly displays his devotion to correcting the political issues at hand. While most of Americans are famous complainers and quick to do so, we are a citizenry that has become captured by corporate America due to our extreme apathy. We don’t become active within the process and we fail to donate dollars to the causes that so many strive long hours with little pay to make all of our lives safer, better and free. Maintaining our liberty is no easy task.

Visit Michael’s web site at: [/URL][url]www.libertyrider.com (http://www.libertyrider.com/). Send him a few words of encouragement and appreciation. A few bucks wouldn’t hurt, since he uses his own dollars to pay for our liberty.

It’s Larry! That’s what I think.

From: www.libertyrider.com/about/the-rider/ (http://www.libertyrider.com/about/the-rider/)

Michael Maresco is a 45 yr old poet, wanderer, and r3VOLutionary, in an age where “Truth is Treason in an Empire of Lies”. Exposure to corruption at a young age caused him to become disillusioned and he set out on a 25+ year odyssey to sort truth from the lies propagated on him via the Public Education system. He has been a waiter in NY, a construction worker in Florida, a salesman in California, and a commercial fisherman with the Alaskan Salmon Fleet. He has sailed over 26,000 miles on blue-water yachts and hitchhiked the coasts of two continents. It was back-packing alone, in the middle of China, where he came to the realization, that as bad as the US has become, it is still the greatest country in the world.

Settling in Hawaii, on the Garden Island of Kauai, he shut himself off from the the world and worked on keeping that little corner as “Hawaiian” (http://www.poipustory.org/) as possible. He earned his keep in the Audio/Visual world, working on corporate events, where he has worked in New Zealand, Mexico, and The Caribbean.

Until the r3VOLution…

While he is , perhaps, best known as the Ron Paul Rider (http://ronpaulriders.com/), who pedaled a bicycle from LA to DC (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PR8HfJpJzIA), on a 3700 mile adventure spreading the name and ideas of the good doctor, through 13 states and 100 counties. He has done, and continues to do, much more. A condensed version of his r3VOLutioary “credentials” follows:

Joining Ron Paul’s “list” in the early days of the exploratory committee, he set about informing the locals about this amazing man, an honest politician. Notable accomplisments for the r3VOLution include a 130mile/5 day “march” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_3hOsCR_nPw) around the island of OAHU, and “traditional GOTV (http://www.leadershipinstitute.org/) campaigning” in the states of NH, SC, NY, and TX.

http://www.thesimpleamerican.org/_/rsrc/1244416161818/political-hotseat/michaelmarescoridingforyourliberty/image004.gif (http://www.thesimpleamerican.org/political-hotseat/michaelmarescoridingforyourliberty/image004.gif?attredirects=0)
He is a moderator in the crucible of r3VOLution, Liberty Forest (http://libertyforest.com/), and has been a part of most of the celebrated projects of the grassroots campaign. He was a Core Team member of the Revolution March (http://www.revolutionmarch.com/) bringing over 10,000 grassroots activists into DC in July 08 and organized/participated in the Walk4Freedom (http://walk4freedom.org/) effort, holding Town Hall meetings and delivering Constitutions across Wisconsin on a 300 mile trek to The Rally For The Republic. He assisted in much of the filming for the documentary, For Liberty: How the Ron Paul Revolution watered the withered tree of liberty (http://www.forlibertymovie.com/). He has spoken at and helped promote EndTheFed (http://endthefed.us/) events, as well as events by Walter Reddy’s Committees of Safety (http://committeesofsafety.org/).

[ronpaulhawaii]

Over the last few days I became intimate with Route 40, the old national highway, quite a bit of history. Folk that are used to people "passing through"

They ain't met many like me, though - haha - I'm lightin' brushfires everyday. A mentionable thing about this part of the heartland is that people are spontaneously giving me small amounts of cash. This says good things about the people, and the message... Old folk, young folk, democrats, republicans, long hairs, and short-hairs. People like a word I've been using.

Solutions!

And we do have the solutions; audit the fed, reform the IRS. Get involved, insist that candidates/officials understand the gravity of an oath of service... Organize against such bills as HR 875 - (The Monsanto Monopolization Act)

We have answers, we have the truth, and best of all, it's just common sense. People are sick of the spin and the jig is up. All we need to do is reach out to them with... Solutions.

People love that word...

The ride has been good. Rainy some days, but not the day I met a few of the Heartland folk I met with on the way through Indiana. Had some good luck with the sheriff outreach... Joyce took some great pics. Here she is Joyce with the Privacy Advocate

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs094.snc1/4695_1074508944658_1284229383_30197264_6135043_n.j pg


http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs094.snc1/4695_1074232137738_1284229383_30196623_4983024_n.j pg


Here is Jerry and Jan Titus, my primary hosts in Indianapolis

http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs114.snc1/4695_1074508904657_1284229383_30197263_2325845_n.j pg

Thanks Guys

I was joined by a hottie and got a SEG

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs114.snc1/4695_1074509184664_1284229383_30197270_1381723_n.j pg

The next day I pedaled out of Indianapolis. The city streets are tough and I was glad to get out in the country...

http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb19/mkauai/ride2/Mayberry.jpg

http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb19/mkauai/ride2/HendricksSheriff-1.jpg

Had a flat miles from much at all

http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb19/mkauai/ride2/Motorflat.jpg

But made it a good ways into

http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb19/mkauai/ride2/Illinois.jpg

BTW - Here is what a reload looks like

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs088.snc1/4624_110260612952_663957952_2692318_6135880_n.jpg

and here is what a drop looks like

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs088.snc1/4624_110870292952_663957952_2703581_7094453_n.jpg

I'm leaving out heaps, got some vids should be coming up before long. Tim Dyer, in west IN was great...

pedal pedal

[JoshLowry]

Bump for good luck!

[acptulsa]

And happy King Kamehameha Day on Thursday!

Hope you can save yourself a few spare hours in Claremore...

http://www.thegunmuseum.com/

It's everything they say it is.

[ronpaulhawaii]

And happy King Kamehameha Day on Thursday!

Hope you can save yourself a few spare hours in Claremore...

[/URL][url]http://www.thegunmuseum.com/ (http://www.thegunmuseum.com/)

It's everything they say it is.

:cool:

Some YouTube Interviews from Indiana Roadsides
June 9th, 2009
(http://libertyrider.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=739)

This is Joyce, who took care of me like a brother…

YouTube - LPNTV-06082009-001 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thyHuE_nryM)

Here is Jennifer who was a pleasant surprise on a country road…

YouTube - LPNTV-06082009-002 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zacs_IuFzqE)

And lovely Janet, who accompanied me in to the sheriff

YouTube - LPNTV-06082009-003 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q7-3ONFOllU)


Thanks ladies http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif

[ronpaulhawaii]

Gnarly Days and Happy Faces
June 10th, 2009
I gotta tell you, the last two days beat the begeezus out of me, Sheesh… There have been some great parts mind you, but the wind yesterday, and the “bridge-out” today… plus the finicky front-tube needing three repairs.

Or the dirtroads… Did I mention the wind yesterday? It was wicked…
Such is life on the road. Pedal pedal. I’m just thankful the ForLiberty guys came down to shoot a promo for the ride http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_biggrin.gif and took most of the weight out of my cart.

Joetta Duetch was a big help through Illinois and it was great to get to see her on her own turf. She brought a welcoming crew down to the Sheriff Office, together we all made quite the troupe waltzing in. I didn’t know at first that Chris was filming, and have been a bit apprehensive about broaching the subject with the sheriffs, but the long and the short of it is that there will soon be a youtube example of the pitch. I hope it turns out good http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif

I met a supporter Joel at the Springfield Capitol.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb19/mkauai/ride2/SpringfieldIL.jpg (http://s209.photobucket.com/albums/bb19/mkauai/ride2/?action=view&current=SpringfieldIL.jpg)
Great guy, cool car
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb19/mkauai/ride2/Joel.jpg (http://s209.photobucket.com/albums/bb19/mkauai/ride2/?action=view&current=Joel.jpg)
The ride on Monday was into strong winds all day. I’ll have to write a proper post about ‘true’ and ‘apparent’ wind for y’all if I get the time

Tuesday started out great, was making good time. Had a local stop me before I went down a hill to a small bridge out in Jacksonville. I only wish I had discussed the rest of the day.

Part of the route was on some backroads I was a bit unsure of. They turned out to be unpaved and became increasingly ‘rural’ as I pedaled on, at one point I started hearing banjos and was wondering if I ever would see paved roads again… haha.

When I did get out onto Rt 100, it was great, The rain was light and the road clear and smooth. The dirt roads had slowed me down but I definitly had enough time to get to Pittsfield before dark. Or so I thought until I hit 106 where I found a major “bridgeout” sign… uh-oh. The closest suitable bridge was 20 miles north, and there were no motles anywhere in the area… uh oh… the closest motel on this side of the river was ~30 miles NNE (on this section I am traveling SSW - eek)

There was one other bridge though… Only that one entailed a 10mile uphill sprint along the interstate… Luckily I ran into a trucker who gave me the skinny on the bridge (wide shoulder) and I just went for it.

Total mileage for the day was 77miles… Last ten miles a looooonng uphill on a road few bikes tread;. It was safe, just a bit nervewracking, waiting for the Highway Patrol to pull up and ask me what the heck I think I was doing… Needless to say getting off the exit was a relief, then a quick 5 miles into town… and here I sit, getting ready to see what today will bring http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif

Oh, I guess I forgot the three time I had to stop and repair my front tube… lulz…

pedal pedal
http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif

[Danke]

I gotta tell you, the last two days beat the begeezus out of me, Sheesh… There have been some great parts mind you, but the wind yesterday...
Or the dirtroads… Did I mention the wind yesterday? It was wicked…


They don't call dem the "westerlies" for nuthin'

Maybe the ride should have been "Fascism to Freedom!" :p:D

[ronpaulhawaii]

They don't call dem the "westerlies" for nuthin'

Maybe the ride should have been "Fascism to Freedom!" :p:D

Yeah, had thought of that... I had bad headwinds on the last trip (W>E) as well.

Six of one/half a dozen of the other...

[UtahApocalypse]

Keep pedaling Mike!! If things work out I may be able to come down for 2 days in Vegas. I still got the bike, and I owe it many, many more miles.

[acptulsa]

Keep pedaling Mike!! If things work out I may be able to come down for 2 days in Vegas. I still got the bike, and I owe it many, many more miles.

Hope things do work out. He'll be heading into the scary stretch at that point--the Mojave in summer. He'll need all the support he can get!

Hey, Michael--you want to hand out some Tenth Amendment Resolution Petition stuff as you cross our fair state? Or is the rig creaking enough under the load? 'Runderwo' will already be loading you up, remember. Aren't you glad that from here the Ozark foothills will peter out and it'll be pretty to very flat all the way to Tucumcari?

[ronpaulhawaii]

Keep pedaling Mike!! If things work out I may be able to come down for 2 days in Vegas. I still got the bike, and I owe it many, many more miles.

Hope to see you. If you come, bring the cam... (and sunscreen :D)


Hope things do work out. He'll be heading into the scary stretch at that point--the Mojave in summer. He'll need all the support he can get!

Hey, Michael--you want to hand out some Tenth Amendment Resolution Petition stuff as you cross our fair state? Or is the rig creaking enough under the load? 'Runderwo' will already be loading you up, remember. Aren't you glad that from here the Ozark foothills will peter out and it'll be pretty to very flat all the way to Tucumcari?

Yes on the local issue lit, the smaller and lighter the better. Get together with Sandie&Co and see what they are planning, it may be on the lit they've created already. Really looking forward to getting to your fine state (and it's flatlands ;) )

I'm 55 miles out of Jeff City... Hope the rain holds off... Here is a fresh vid... Please help spread it, would love to get money off my mind... (with much thanks and appreciation to those of you who have already joined the ride...)

YouTube - Ride For Honesty - Decatur, Illinois stop (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=adGcjCsUPrI)

[acptulsa]

Hope the rain holds off...

Wish granted.

Enjoying Mexico?

[ronpaulhawaii]

http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb19/mkauai/ride2/Shakerattleroll.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb19/mkauai/ride2/BridgeNarrow.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb19/mkauai/ride2/Missouri.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb19/mkauai/ride2/MOCapdistance.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb19/mkauai/ride2/MOCap.jpg

[Anti Federalist]

You're a better man than me, Mike.

Biking across Missouri, in June?

I'd fall out in ten minutes from the heat.

How's the money holding out?

[Danke]

You're a better man than me, Mike.

Biking across Missouri, in June?

I'd fall out in ten minutes from the heat.

How's the money holding out?

I have no tolerance for heat either. Way to go Mike!

He still shows at least $2500 needed to raise on his chip in.

[ronpaulhawaii]

Satisfaction
June 11th, 2009
To start this post I want to thank all of you who are helping and cheering us on. It’s a tough message to pedal, nasty at times, but I think you’ll all agree that things like this, Must. Be. Done. I can’t really say I’m “happy” to be pedaling towards Alcatraz, to visualize the grim history symbolized in this ride. But I am satisfied. I am satisfied that with the help of my fellow roots, we are doing… something.

I grieve for my country and I want to see her back in hands of the only safe stewards of true freedom, peace, and prosperity, you. All of you I’ve met in my travels. The vast majority of you are such good hearted folk, with the wisdom of common sense. We just need to reach out, and connect. Most everyone I talk sees what we all see. We are the teeming masses, we just need to talk to one another. We can’t all ride a bike a ridiculous distance, but we can all do much more than we usually think ourselves capable. Every second we wait is one more second a child will live under tyranny.

And so I ride, connecting us all on a fragile thread across this nation, sowing seeds along the way. Satisfied…
…and that’s so much more important than being happy…

mahalo and much aloha
m
“Let it not be said we did nothing” - Ron Paul

http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb19/mkauai/ride2/Mayberry.jpg

[acptulsa]

Michael, you're riding into the teeth of a very nasty storm. Hope you read this in time to take some shelter.

It is just crossing into Missouri as I type this.

http://www.ktul.com/weather/

It's moving at a decent clip. My guess is it'll reach you before the afternoon is out. It isn't tornadic at the moment, but if it doesn't blow and/or wash you off the road it'll put you through hail.

The good news is the air behind it is deliciously cool, clean and sweet.

The leading edge is just reaching Springfield at 11:30 CDT. I'm 90% sure it will intercept you.

[UtahApocalypse]

Michael, you're riding into the teeth of a very nasty storm. Hope you read this in time to take some shelter.

It is just crossing into Missouri as I type this.

http://www.ktul.com/weather/

It's moving at a decent clip. My guess is it'll reach you before the afternoon is out. It isn't tornadic at the moment, but if it doesn't blow and/or wash you off the road it'll put you through hail.

The good news is the air behind it is deliciously cool, clean and sweet.

The leading edge is just reaching Springfield at 11:30 CDT. I'm 90% sure it will intercept you.

Anyone have a way to contact him on the road? I lost he cell number. He needs to seek safty and cover today for sure!

[Danke]

Anyone have a way to contact him on the road? I lost he cell number. He needs to seek safty and cover today for sure!

I'll call him, but he does have Internet on his phone, so I'd imagine he gets the WX and WX radar.


Edit: All O.K. He'll update this thread shortly.

[acptulsa]

I'll call him, but he does have Internet on his phone, so I'd imagine he get the WX and WX radar.

Yes, please alert him to watch that radar. The storm is bashing up against the front range of the Ozarks right now; too soon to tell if this will calm it down or stir it up.

[ronpaulhawaii]

You're a better man than me, Mike.

Biking across Missouri, in June?

I'd fall out in ten minutes from the heat.

How's the money holding out?

It's an honor to be working for ya, Cap'n...

Yep, I expect it'll be gettin a bit warmer where I'm headed - :eek::)

Water, breaks, and a farmers tan :D (Am going to look into desert gear, maybe I'll make the time today...)

About the money, of course I'd like to close out the chip-in (and set up a "buy me a beer" one - haha). But I do want to say that RPFs has shown the most 3VOL and that is very much appreciated.

Again, any extra will be folded into the liberty mix and any monetary/promotional help buys the satisfaction of "being a part of it" -


Michael, you're riding into the teeth of a very nasty storm. Hope you read this in time to take some shelter.

It is just crossing into Missouri as I type this.

http://www.ktul.com/weather/ (http://www.ktul.com/weather/)

It's moving at a decent clip. My guess is it'll reach you before the afternoon is out. It isn't tornadic at the moment, but if it doesn't blow and/or wash you off the road it'll put you through hail.

The good news is the air behind it is deliciously cool, clean and sweet.

The leading edge is just reaching Springfield at 11:30 CDT. I'm 90% sure it will intercept you.

Funny how Providence works... The MO-CfL State Meeting is tomorrow here in Jefferson City. They were going to drive me back my wherever I had progressed to, but if I had pedald two days, I'd a been hours away... So I decided to take a day and catch up with somethings and pedal a short day tomorrow.

And now I see this... THANK YOU!!! :cool: I usually check wunderground each morning, but weather alerts are very much appreciated... even if I can't avoid it, fair warning is valuable intel...

[acptulsa]

And now I see this... THANK YOU!!! :cool: I usually check wunderground each morning, but weather alerts are very much appreciated... even if I can't avoid it, fair warning is valuable intel...

We're definitely thinking of you.

Still barely entering Springfield miles away from you, but it looks (so far) like the front range is spinning it up, not calming it down. Batten down the hatches later this afternoon!

[Anti Federalist]

It's an honor to be working for ya, Cap'n...

Yep, I expect it'll be gettin a bit warmer where I'm headed - :eek::)

Water, breaks, and a farmers tan :D (Am going to look into desert gear, maybe I'll make the time today...)

About the money, of course I'd like to close out the chip-in (and set up a "buy me a beer" one - haha). But I do want to say that RPFs has shown the most 3VOL and that is very much appreciated.

Again, any extra will be folded into the liberty mix and any monetary/promotional help buys the satisfaction of "being a part of it" -

You're working for all of us my brother, I'm thankful just to be part of it and help someone who put's it on the line in a meaningful way. (And in a way that, frankly, my fat ass couldn't do, not without a couple of years of training anyway ;) )

[ronpaulhawaii]

We're definitely thinking of you.

Still barely entering Springfield miles away from you, but it looks (so far) like the front range is spinning it up, not calming it down. Batten down the hatches later this afternoon!

http://icons.wunderground.com/data/640x480/2xradarb3_anim.gif

looks like a nasty storm... where does something like that build from?

http://icons.wunderground.com/data/640x480/2xradarc3_anim.gif

... IOW - in which direction should I direct my weather eye???

Thanks

[acptulsa]

Generally they build up in the Rockies and unleash on us. They used to calm as they crossed the Plains, but in recent years they've begun staying strong clear into the Southeastern states.

The ones you really need to watch for are the ones (like this one) with curled trailing edges--that's an indicator of tornadic strength and activity. Looks like the Ozarks might just break up the worst of this one, though. Keep your eye on I-44--you'll be paralleling it for days yet and most storm systems do, too.

Edit, 1:25 CDT: Wrong. The Ozarks are spinning it up. I knew it had some power behind it, but wow! Tornadoes in Arkansas, anyone?

Well, RPH, looks like it just might miss you to the south after all.

Update: Gotta watch those ones that plow into the mountains and don't break up--they're killers. Tornadoes northeast of Little Rock. You folks in the Deep South--this one probably won't die out before it gets to you.

[Cowlesy]

Generally they build up behind the Rockies and unleash on us. They used to calm as they crossed the Plains, but in recent years they've begun staying strong clear into the Southeastern states.

The ones you really need to watch for are the ones (like this one) with curled trailing edges--that's an indicator of tornadic strength and activity. Looks like the Ozarks might just break up the worst of this one, though. Keep your eye on I-44--you'll be paralleling it for days yet and most storm systems do, too.

yep, the dreaded hook-echo. having to endure my father's insistence on watching the weather channel gives me the ability to use the lingo.

EDIT: And why didn't Weatherbill see this coming in one of his visions???? :)

[jdmyprez_deo_vindice]

edit: And why didn't weatherbill see this coming in one of his visions???? :)

lmfao

[Aratus]

way to go RPH! you are more than halfway!!
it looks like 1207 is going out of the committee
onto the house floor! way to go ronpaulhawaii !!!

[Danke]

looks like a nasty storm... where does something like that build from?


Combination of HAARP and Chemtrails.

[mamakar]

There is a happy ma here, grateful for you weather watchers.......Thanks

[Cowlesy]

There is a happy ma here, grateful for you weather watchers.......Thanks

w00t for Michael's Ma!

[Cowlesy]

bump for updates from the road!

[ronpaulhawaii]

bump for updates from the road!

Your wish is my command

Short day today, am lingering in the Jeff City area to attend the CfL MO-State BBQ tonight (part of the statewide organizing meeting they are having today) Here is my route and schedule for the next few days

http://www.mapmyride.com/ride/united-states/mo/-south-mo/677124490262233008

Eldon tonight (Sat)
Buffalo Sun Night
Springfield Monday afternoon
Aurora Monday Night
Neosho Tuesday Afternoon
Wyandette (OK) Tuesday night

Mike Mikkelsen from Kansas City came and visited last night, drove me around to a bike shop for tubes, and a goodwill for desert clothes... Very helpful...

Had bit of drama entering Jeff City. I've been wondering about the bridge for the whole time. I planned on staying in North Jefferson and crossing the bridge all fresh and chipper in the AM. (You have to go the wrong way down an interstate, kinda spooky passing those signs...)

There was a convenient motel on my google map, everything looked perfect. Only the motel wasn't where the map said it was... I ended up on the back side of an airport having to make a decision to race the sun, cross the bridge, and get here on the southside of Jeff City, all at the end of a 60 mile day...

I'm telling you, these early evening sprints down interstates are a bit hairaising - haha

http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs109.snc1/4924_112898877952_663957952_2731859_58879_n.jpg

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs109.snc1/4924_112898872952_663957952_2731858_8283347_n.jpg

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs089.snc1/4924_112898882952_663957952_2731860_3745998_n.jpg

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs089.snc1/4924_112898887952_663957952_2731861_3440418_n.jpg

pedal pedal :D

and a big MAHALO for the help - y'all ROCK!!!

:)

m

[acptulsa]

There is a happy ma here, grateful for you weather watchers.......Thanks

Our pleasure, ma'am. Just a little pioneer spirit.

This little thing headed your way today doesn't even make any lightning so far, M. It would make for cool riding (and some long stopping distances, of course).

Riding the wrong way on an Interstate, eh? Well, I can see we don't have exciting enough activities planned for your adventurous spirit!

[ronpaulhawaii]

The Ozarks
June 16th, 2009

I like Missouri, great people.
As with most of us, a quick smile, wave, or tip of the hat tends to bring out the best. Missourians took that one step further. Not charging me for water, apples, and, “hey, let me make you an Ozark BBQ Meat sandwich special, on me.” In a way, it reminds me of Hawaii. I’ll be leaving you tomorrow Missouri, mahalo for the hospitality…

And I ain’t even got to the CfL folks. http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_biggrin.gif I happened to be passing through Jeff City during their state level organizing meeting, and was a guest at the BBQ. Saw some old friends
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs112.snc1/4944_1187699452269_1221782802_30524080_6005964_n.j pg
met some new oneshttp://i524.photobucket.com/albums/cc329/disorderlyvision/Picture104.jpg
Gave a speech (((eeek)))
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs112.snc1/4944_1188344548396_1221782802_30526008_3695993_n.j pg
and went to the afterparty… which made for some hardpedaling the next day.
Did I mention The Ozarks have been a bit humid…? Thunder and lightening ahead, and to the sides, today… frunny how distracting massive bolts can be… It cleared up in afternoon, and became sweltering, seemed the perfect weather for thunderstorms. I watched this one, far to the east develop quickly from this,
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs085.snc1/4594_114167317952_663957952_2755335_6127360_n.jpg
into this…
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs085.snc1/4594_114167327952_663957952_2755336_1148334_n.jpg
All in all a decent day though, not much heavy rain, kind cool for the AM. And quite successful on spreading the message. First thing in the AM I pedaled back to the Buffalo Sheriff Office
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb19/mkauai/ride2/HPIM2072.jpg
where I talked to (as usual) the Chief Deputy… Definitely a decent guy, reinforced that he certainly did not agree with the DHS political profiling…

A line that has been developing is tied to the presentation of the constitution. I have already been mentioning solutions when I get to the little green book, at that point I say something like, “and the honest truth is that the solutions are in this little book right here, The US Constitution. We just need to get people to follow it again. I know a lot of people say it is an old document, but that fact is that times and seasons change, but human nature, and the root of crime, doesn’t. The same crimes that have plagued humanity forever are still with us today. (at this point I get strong body language agreement), and this here document is the best yet devised to keep the really dangerous criminals at bay, wannabe tyrants”

Speaking of tyrants…I often hear people complaining of “sheeple” and want to touch a bit on that.

The great mass of humanity just wants to be left alone. These are the salt of the earth, and god bless em. Think of them as the weight of a pendulum being acted upon by opposing forces. Tyrants on the one hand, liberty activists on the other. It is an age old battle. I have no idea (and frankly don’t care) why the world was set up with light and dark, good and evil, etc. It is just a fact of life. As are the good people, who just want to be left alone.

As things get more turbulent, more and more of these salty types get shaken loose from the mass. Most of them will side with the liberty folk. Tyranny is only attractive to the truly warped and mentally ill. That is why it is so important to be out there planting seeds. As these types reach the edge of the mass and are about to shake loose, they need to know there is a net for them to latch onto, otherwise they will cling to that pendulum against all hope…

I hope that makes sense, much seems clear while engaged in the zen of bicycle wheel r3VOLutions, but not so easy to put in words, all knackered on a motel bed.

Other events of yesterday included a local reporter coming out to see what I was about, no article yet, but went very well. I stopped at the Greene County Sheriff. It was in one of them new “Justice Centers” and not as friendly as the small town sheriff offices. The retiree guard was nice enough. The two guys behind him seemed a bit of the smirkish types (yuck), the receptionist in the actaul office was sweet, and after finding out everyone was in a meeting took the books for me. One weirrd thing was a younger lady who hung inj the doorway, just out of sight as I gave my pitch. I knew she was there from shadows, etc… As I left, I was sure to lean a bit and catch her eye. http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif
The final good news for the day was a supporter, Renea came from another county and picked up a pack for here sheriff, and gave a cool roadside interview I hope to get up with better i-net.

http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb19/mkauai/ride2/HPIM2073.jpg
The only drama of the day was pulling into town where I had problems with my rear tire. Fixed it once as darkness fell, but something hadn’t seated right… The rains were approach and darkness growing, I finally had to ride on the flat for a bit to get to the motel and off the road. I think it is fixed now… will know for sure in a few…

pedal pedal

[angelatc]

Columbus OH
They also, gave me great OH specific lit to seed he route with… No pics as I got rid of the last before I left.

The rides were good, am wondering who stole the dome from the top of the capitol though, lulz


States strong enough to avoid "DC dome envy:"

Alaska, Delaware, Hawaii, Louisiana, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Tennessee, Virginia

[acptulsa]

States strong enough to avoid "DC dome envy:"

Pissed me off when Oklahoma 'succumbed' not too long ago. We had done without for nearly a century; wtf?


Did I mention The Ozarks have been a bit humid…?

My mom says back before I was born, when they were damming up every river they could find once each, it was dry. Now we've spent untold money damming them all up a second (and occasionally a third) time and have more shoreline than any other state in the lower 48--even more than the ones that border oceans or the Gulf.

No charge for the sauna.

[disorderlyvision]

I'm honored to be in your latest update Mike! Keep up the good work, and may the road be kind to you. Godspeed

[ronpaulhawaii]

States strong enough to avoid "DC dome envy:"

Alaska, Delaware, Hawaii, Louisiana, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Tennessee, Virginia

The strange thing about OH is that the structure is all built for a dome, it highlights the absence...


...
No charge for the sauna.

mahalo - :rolleyes: - :D


I'm honored to be in your latest update Mike! Keep up the good work, and may the road be kind to you. Godspeed

Was great meeting and glad to see you around in here.

Pretty gnarly day. Storms lasted till 10:30 or so, windy all afternoon, muggy all evening, not much shade... glad to reach this oasis, (many of you have provided), and a bracing cold shower:) ... thanks :cool:

[acptulsa]

60 flattens out from there. That's the good news. The bad news is 66 runs steady grades, though not terribly steep, from there in. You're not really out of the Ozarks yet, though you're down to just the foothills now.

Don't remember if it's uphill or downhill into Chelsea. If it's downhill get some radar-absorbing stealth paint--it's that notorious a speed trap.

Looks like I'll be seeing you tomorrow. Looking forward to it--it has been too long!


And I ain’t even...

mamakar, I humbly apologize for any adverse or deleterious effects we may be having on your son's normally immaculate powers of erudition.

Aloha, y'all.

[ronpaulhawaii]

60 flattens out from there. That's the good news. The bad news is 66 runs steady grades, though not terribly steep, from there in. You're not really out of the Ozarks yet, though you're down to just the foothills now.

Don't remember if it's uphill or downhill into Chelsea. If it's downhill get some radar-absorbing stealth paint--it's that notorious a speed trap.

Looks like I'll be seeing you tomorrow. Looking forward to it--it has been too long!



mamakar, I humbly apologize for any adverse or deleterious effects we may be having on your son's normally immaculate powers of erudition.

Aloha, y'all.

I'll watch my speed... :D

Looking forward to it as well, call me sometime today if you get a chance. If I don't answer, just hang up and I'll check the missed calls...


Welcome to Oklahoma
June 17th, 2009 Goto comments (http://libertyrider.com/welcome-to-oklahoma/#comments) Leave a comment (http://libertyrider.com/welcome-to-oklahoma/#respond) Edit (http://libertyrider.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=764)



First, I want to apologize for the lack of video/pics. On really tough days my mind starts shutting out most everything but what is necessary to get there.
And yesterday was tough. Thunderstorms in the AM, followed by gusting winds, sweltering humidity, and relentless sun. Shady spots were few and far between, and I am on a schedule…


The good thing about traveling by bicycle is that one gets to acclimatize gradually, transitioning from one zone to the next.


And the transition from Show Me, MO to Sooner OK was GREAT!!! I was actually met at the border by some great old friends and fellow activists, Sandra Crosnoe and Kaye Beach, and they brought my new friend and congressional candidate RJ Harris who has joined the ranks of LibertyRiders as #5


I really like RJ. My first impression is that the people of OK would be well served by having this man represent him. He reminisced on his childhood, growing up in these parts and pedaling around during the “Wonder Years”, I could tell this was a man with passion for his home, and that is always a good thing for a represenative to have. He said some things pertaining to his native heritage that made me think the Hawaiians would like this guy. And he said them with the kind of humble grace that would make the Hawaiians love him. It is an honor to ride with such folk and I hope we all do everything we can to get some Liberty Candidates elected this season. RJ’s Money Bomb is June 19th. Please help spread the message…


I purposely have some lower mileage days built in here, so I can better visit with the outstanding activists of OK. Got 5 sets of books out lastnight for local delivery. The Brenner Family came down to visit and took three, (am real sorry not to have gotten pics). They are already mapping the state and raising funds to distribute to all counties that I will not have the pleasure of visiting.


Liberty Grassroots Rock!!!


53 miles today, Afton to Claremore on Rt 66. Wind is up, but so are spirits…
pedal pedal…

[mamakar]

erudition, caused me to check the dictionary :)....Its people like you that keep him going. As he likes to say "Grassroots rock.

[MelissaWV]

I love that you're doing this, and more than that I love that you're so dedicated along the way. Some would "settle" for just riding straight along and hoping people see the signage. Not you. You stop, you engage, you educate.

Thank you so much :)

[ronpaulhawaii]

Pedaling across country on a schedule...



hahahhahhahha...


I always feel bad if I ain't "blogging enough..." Time is a precious thing...
Lets see what I can get off. Liberty Rider #6 Anthony Platt is pedaling up from Tulsa, will be here in a few minutes. Together we will be pedaling to the Rogers County Sheriff, wher they have a rranged a reporter to meet us. Just like that...


Met Sheriff Jimmie Sooter of Craig County yesterday. Great guy, he lit up a bit when I presented Ron Paul's book, kinda like a kid at Christmas... The body language, and all, told me he understood exactly why we are doing this, and that it is the right thing to do. He appreciated the visit... In Hawaii we call any elders who deserve respect, "Uncle"... Sheriff Sooter earned that from me with a quick comment about my route to Claremore and the winds I would face. Respectful concern... Mahalo, Sheriff.


Ride was windy, just something pushing back, I just have to push forward with more determination...


Have to run, LR-6 just arrived... will try more later...


Thanks to Brian Mayberry for coming out and meeting up last night


GO GRASSROOTS!!!

[acptulsa]

Ride was windy, just something pushing back, I just have to push forward with more determination...

He's Iron Man. No mere mortal can keep up. Bruce Armstrong is a wannabe.

And MsD and LE--I have a special piece of news for you. Michael likes Okra.

[UtahApocalypse]

He's Iron Man. No mere mortal can keep up. Bruce Armstrong is a wannabe.

And MsD and LE--I have a special piece of news for you. Michael likes Okra.

Huckabee had Chuck Norris who can act like a tough guy, take on the world, crush anything by his look.

We have Micheal who CAN be a tough guy, take on the world, and crush anything with a look

[Indy Vidual]

Hope to see you. If you come, bring the cam... (and sunscreen :D)



Yes on the local issue lit, the smaller and lighter the better. Get together with Sandie&Co and see what they are planning, it may be on the lit they've created already. Really looking forward to getting to your fine state (and it's flatlands ;) )

I'm 55 miles out of Jeff City... Hope the rain holds off... Here is a fresh vid... Please help spread it, would love to get money off my mind... (with much thanks and appreciation to those of you who have already joined the ride...)

YouTube - Ride For Honesty - Decatur, Illinois stop (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=adGcjCsUPrI)

Great job in Decatur, Illinois. :)

[ronpaulhawaii]

Oklahoma is Keeping Me Busy
June 20th, 2009 Goto comments (http://libertyrider.com/oklahoma-is-keeping-me-busy/#comments) Leave a comment (http://libertyrider.com/oklahoma-is-keeping-me-busy/#respond) Edit (http://libertyrider.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=778)

The Sooner State seems to be living up to it’s name in regards to the r3VOLution. Not only are the activists enthusiastically busy, but the general people I am meeting, and the sheriffs, all are reacting very positively to the message I am spreading. It really is a cool state. The residents all seem to have a connection with their home that, again, reminds me of Hawaii.

I left off with LR-6 (aka acptulsa) pedaling up from Tulsa to accompany me into town.
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs106.snc1/4904_115332447952_663957952_2773129_6875934_n.jpg
Unfortunately for him, the ride out was mostly downhill and downwind, meaning the ride back was… (not easy - haha) By the end of the day we were taking a few breaks…
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs086.snc1/4904_115332472952_663957952_2773131_3019389_n.jpg
We made it in time for the BBQ, but was a bit longer of a day that Anthony figured - haha

On the way we had some productive stops. First was the Sheriff Office of Rogers County.
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs086.snc1/4904_115307417952_663957952_2772722_2199975_n.jpg
Neither was the actual sheriff,. both were decent guys. The officer on the left was the Captain, he took a bit to warm up, but the other officer caught right on, and was very agreeable. The more I talk to these fellow Americans, the more I am convinced that the Law Enforcement outreach aspect of this journey is a very good thing to be doing. We are earning respect for standing up for ourselves, and our beliefs. I am stoked to hear of the ride encouraging the expansion this outreach effort. You don’t have to ride a bike, but you can get a set of materials and go say hi to your sheriff…

Another thing that OK is capitalizing on is the “news” aspect of this trip. I’ve had two local news interviews in two days. Here is Jessica from the Claremore Daily Progress
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs086.snc1/4904_115307407952_663957952_2772721_4194139_n.jpg
This is another area we could do better in, cultivating relationships with local media, and becoming local media. The 4th Estate is a very real force in American Politics, while all the people running for various political positions is great, we could also use liberty people entering the news field as well.

Here is another mention from an “in the wild” interview (no-one had contacvted this paper)
[/URL]http://www.buffaloreflex.com/articles/2009/06/18/news/doc4a382082d409f602292745.txt (http://www.buffaloreflex.com/articles/2009/06/18/news/doc4a382082d409f602292745.txt)

And so it starts… News coverage should build as I get further along…

Before we left Claremore, we stopped at a massive gun Museum, [url]http://www.thegunmuseum.com (http://www.thegunmuseum.com) Any gun enthusiasts who are passing in this area should not miss the place…
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs106.snc1/4904_115325832952_663957952_2773000_5108561_n.jpg
and then we pedaled on
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs086.snc1/4904_115307422952_663957952_2772723_6346325_n.jpg
talked to a few folk…
http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs106.snc1/4904_115307442952_663957952_2772724_108393_n.jpg
saw a blue whale
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs086.snc1/4904_115325852952_663957952_2773002_4394524_n.jpg
Oh, did I mention it was windy
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs106.snc1/4904_115332442952_663957952_2773128_7319837_n.jpg
Anyway, we made it to Tulsa, where we had a great Meet-Up BBQ and I got to talk to lots of liberty folk. One thing they seem to have here is a strong “team player” attitude. Humble strength of conviction in the righteousness of our cause and the need to do whatever to advance the cause…

The next day was a sorta easy ride, had a glitch to deal with in the AM, but Jay Blevin came through and solved that dilemna.

We pedaled to the Sheriff Office where we had a long conversation with two deputies, and though I’ll respect the off the record nature of some of the comments, I’ll say these two boys are definitely on our side… After talking to potential Mayoral Candidate Clay Clark (http://visionwithoutataxincrease.com/)we mounted up and pedal into the bright OK sun.

Anthony got me safely back on to RT 66 and turned back to home… Was a great time and I’m stoked to have have a long time LibertyForest member join the ranks of LibertyRiders. And he pedaled quite far, close to 50 miles… (only my brother beats that, - though BJ Lawson comes close…)

Next stop was Creek County Sheriff, again it was quite busy and I took no pics myself, but we had supporters, reporters, officers and gubernatorial candidate Senator Randy Brogdon (http://www.randybrogdon.com/) even came down. Quite the honor, and quite a guy. Definitely a political animal, and definitely relishes sticking it to the status quo. Listening to him interact with the people going past us into the sheriff office was great. I really like the man and hope the best for his race.

The Chief finally came out to see what all the commotion on his front step was about, and I did the presentation right there, in front of all, including a reporter, Brian, from a Salpulpa paper (The Herald?) Again, the Sheriffs I am meeting are very agreeable. This one was more personable right off the bat, lots of locals around helped in that regard. He brought up references to the tragedy of gun control failures as soon as I started touching on the “historical warnings” aspect of the pitch. All in all a great busy stop

I look forward to seeing the articles and pics people were taking… I have somevideo and will try to get it off for processing before I get on the road…
The rest of the day was hot and windy, good practice for what I will be facing for the next few weeks…

I made it here to Bristow, got an alright room, took a shower, and was picked up by Pastor Tim Gillespie of Drumwright OK, who brought me up to their place for a homecooked dinner and fantastic pie :). His wife, Jennifer, and he are quite the couple. Happy first year Anniversary is coming up - still newlyweds - great to see.

He was a former county GOP chair, now treasurer… very active; on the election board (where we should have more people as well). He has an interesting pespective…

Well, always more I could write and more I need to do, so will close this with something that happened on the road.

I make quite a sight pedaling down the road and usually always draw peoples
eye. Yesterday as I was pedaling along a quad (fourwheeler ATV) came out of a trail and turned along a path on the other side of the ditch just off the shoulder, and came towards me. On it was a father and his young son, the classic, “taking the boy for a ride” image that most all of us cherish somewhere deep in our memory. I got a huge smile and watched as we approached each other… the thing was, the son was looking at me with the huge eyes of innocence, little mouth agape in wonder at the colorful contraption rolling by, the sparkle of fresh eyes as he responded to my returning smile.And the father never saw me at all.

He was deep in concentration, holding a precious treasure in his lap while navigating the bumps of the simple trail. Chugging along, as slow as you go, his eyes never wavered from the trail in front of him…

Ain’t that America?

As I pedaled away, a couple tears of simple joy cooled my cheek, as I said my little prayer of thanks for such moments, seeing quite clearly why I ride.

So that father doesn’t have to…

pedal pedal

[disorderlyvision]

great update Mike, thanks for sharing:)

[JoshLowry]

Very touching story. You rock dude!

[acptulsa]

Sorry I'm late. Sorry I made Michael late.

Seems I have a mental block about sunscreen. Generally I get by just fine without it. Listen to your body and you know when to hit the shade. Pedal 'on a schedule' (hahahahaha) and you just don't get all the shade you need when you want it. I learned my lesson some years ago--I don't forget my sunscreen on float trips any more. After Thursday, you can bet I won't forget it on a long, non-solo ride again, either.

My scalp under my hair is sunburned.

I should have known what I was in for before I got there. But riding up to Claremore to serve as guide through the tricky business of the 'burb of Catoosa and keeping him on Historic Route 66 was just too easy. Twenty-six miles in the cool of the morning, with a tailwind all the way, and taking the beautiful and pretty flat Port Road to do it. I didn't really realize I had that tailwind, though I had enough clues:

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER001.jpg

Notice the flag? I didn't; my neck doesn't swivel like those of lizards...

Anyway, I made it into Claremore in fine style. I had driven up the evening before to show him the (outside of the closed) memorial to Oklahoma's Number One Son, Will Rogers. We had chicken chunks, potatoes and sausage gravy, fried okra, and Shiner Bock all of which agreed with the man more accustomed to poi. And we hit the shores of Claremore Lake to shoot a couple of videos. It was a nice evening, and made the morning go more quickly.

Not quickly enough--or rather, it went by too quickly. By the time we met the intelligent and lovely Jessica Blythe-Ammons of the Claremore Daily Progress (everything nice Will Rogers ever said about small town papers is still true; they're still more interested in serving their readers than their masters), had a great interview with a couple of captains in the Rogers County Sheriff's Department (I told them any militia that doesn't listen to the Constitutionally mandated County Sheriff isn't Constitutional, though they may claim to be), and saw the exceptional J.M. Davis Museum of Arms, it got to be noon.

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER005.jpg

The curator was more than kind and hospitable.

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER008.jpg

Some of the patrons were very interested in the message, and one was from Hawaii!

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER006.jpg

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER009.jpg

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER011.jpg

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER012.jpg

And the extensive collection was, as always, more than fascinating. And no, this isn't a cannon. It's a gatling gun:

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER013.jpg

So, as the noonday sun rose high over our heads, we set off into the teeth of a fifteen to twenty mile per hour headwind and a series of not terribly steep but very continuous grades. And, well, I tried to get myself in a good condition to do the LibertyRiderSix title justice, but nothing prepares you for those headwinds and one's own stupidity regarding sunscreen. But I like to flatter myself that my camera made me worth the time I cost him. Route 66 does have its photo ops (as you can see in Michael's post).

Besides, one of my mercy stops in the shade netted Michael a chance to preach liberty to another lovely lady who happened by (our lovely ladies all seemed particularly impressed by the well-tanned Hawaiian Iron Man)...

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER015.jpg

...and left me in a good postion to get photographic proof that he and I aren't lying when we say we saw a genuine black helicopter! :eek: :eek:

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER016.jpg

We made it to the last trick to keeping the old route, rounded a corner to the west, rather than the south, and celebrated having defeated that relentless wind.

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER018.jpg

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER019.jpg

We made it about another mile before I fell out. It wasn't my legs, and it wasn't my breath. It was my skin. When your sunburn gets to that point where your body has had quite enough of your foolish program, any touch of sun saps your strength on the spot. So, I decided I'd rather stand on my forty-four mile day (about half of Michael's day record, but still more than Michael did that particular day) than die for the cause, and I sent him on ahead and crawled to the nearest shady bus stop. Even when I cheated Michael handily outran me! Damn! You'd think he had thousands of miles of training or something. I wasn't feeling to bad about it--until I learned he's older than me... :(

Well, we got in another couple of Route 66 photos...

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER020.jpg

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER021.jpg

...and rode another half a mile and up one more hill--the one I live on. There, we walked into the air, drank about 22oz. of well-iced spring water each. For the next few minutes we sang a round of gulp gulp gulp Ahhhhh!! May not sound very musical to you, but we sure enjoyed it.

He unpacked while I showered, then I lit the fires while he showered. Soon my living room was full of members of my meetup and a few of the ones near us, and I (with major help from the irreplaceable Julia of Switzerland, Tireless Art, and fundraising help from Sandra aka acainfonet) fed our man like a genuine Plains Native. He had barbequed buffalo filet, sweet maize on the cob steamed in the husk over a low charcoal fire, and fry bread. After a hard ride, that did indeed hit the spot! I then proceeded to land on the couch--and stay there.

The next morning, I donned full length jeans, a shirt with sleeves, and my panama hat, and conned myself into getting back on that damned heavy, high-geared old crate of a bike of mine, and we headed off. We varied from old Route 66 for just about a mile. Why? Because Tulsa's photo ops aren't all on that route, that's why.

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER024.jpg

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER025.jpg

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER026.jpg

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER027.jpg

And neither is the sheriff's office.

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER028.jpg

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER030.jpg

I had received a very nice email from that very office (which I wasn't able to log on and get until just now) regretting that the honorable Sheriff Stanley Glanz was out of town. But Michael did get an interview with a couple of high-ranking deputies while I guarded the bikes on the plaza and told the hot dog vendor all about what we were doing to return this government of the corporations, by the corporations and for the corporations to the people it was intended to serve. He was so happy to hear it he contributed two bottles of ice cold water to the cause (sometimes in the Oklahoma summer that is better than gold). Then mayoral candidate Clay Clark showed up and did an interview of Michael for YouTube.

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER032.jpg

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER033.jpg

I then led Michael back to Route 66, he pointed his camera at my lobsterized face, and we were forced to go our seperate ways.

Wouldn't have missed it for the world. Pedal safe, Iron Man! Mahalo (did I say that right?)!

[mamakar]

Great post, and pics. Sorry about the sun, but am sure Michael was happy to have you along and for all your hospitality. I rather imagine he didn't have sunscreen to loan you, rather imagine he doesn't use it......whats a mother to do..:-)

[t0rnado]

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER015.jpg

It looks like you're going to punch that lady in the face.

[Cowlesy]

Fantastic post ACP!!! Thanks for sharing!

[ronpaulhawaii]

It looks like you're going to punch that lady in the face.

LMAO - sheesh... I guess it does... :eek: - lulz


Fantastic post ACP!!! Thanks for sharing!

+2010


Great post, and pics. Sorry about the sun, but am sure Michael was happy to have you along and for all your hospitality. I rather imagine he didn't have sunscreen to loan you, rather imagine he doesn't use it......whats a mother to do..:-)

:o:D:)

Actually, I gave him the one packet I had left in the first aid kit...

and I'm thinking of buying me an umbrella for desert repairs, etc... bought a white long sleeve light cotton shirt in MO, just gearing up for some serious sun...

Had a cool write up from a Tulsa Blog

http://www.purpleoakpolitics.com/2009/06/20/putting-the-active-in-activsim-liberty-rider/ (http://www.purpleoakpolitics.com/2009/06/20/putting-the-active-in-activsim-liberty-rider/)



Putting the “active” in activsim - Liberty Rider!
Tagged with: liberty rider (http://www.purpleoakpolitics.com/tag/liberty-rider/) michael maresco (http://www.purpleoakpolitics.com/tag/michael-maresco/) ride for honesty (http://www.purpleoakpolitics.com/tag/ride-for-honesty/)

On June 18th I had the pleasure of meeting Micheal Maresco, better known as the “Liberty Rider (http://libertyrider.com/)” here in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Michael passed through Tulsa as he is traveling across the country on his bike, to promote the message of liberty and inform the public of the impending threats to our individual freedom.

It was an honor to meet Mr. Maresco and enjoy a traditional “Plains Indian” dinner prepared by local activist Anthony Platt who hosted Michael for the night. I visited with my husband and children and we talked to the Liberty Rider about his journey and what drove him to begin pedaling for honesty!

Michael explained that the growing government control has concerned him for quite some time, as has the evident transition of our nation to a police state, and the complacent acceptance of this transition by the people This public allowance of blatant tyranny can be largely due to fear, but Micheal believes much of it is thanks to just plain mal-education and lack of information. He feels strongly that if people are given the opportunity to learn, they will indeed and that will drive them to take action.

I admire Mr. Maresco’s faith in the human spirit and I pray he is right! I will say, he himself exemplifies the essence of this idea and I hope his journey encourages others to take action as well! When asked what prompted him to hit the road, Michael explained simply, “There are a lot of people talking about what needs to be done, and not enough of them doing it.”

Well said, Michael Maresco! I couldn’t have said it better myself!
You may not know this folks, but Michael is not a cyclist, and did not regularly ride prior to his political endeavor! He works as a rigger for the show and convention industry, and is, like you and I, simply an American who values individual freedom and is willing to do his part to protect and preserve the liberty our founders recognized and claimed for us - their future generations.

According to Mr. Maresca, it was the MIAC report and the events that followed that served as the shove that pushed him onto his bike. He explained that after much online discussion over how to reach the sheriffs in our local respective counties, the idea occurred to him. In his words “I’ll show you how to talk to the sheriffs” and off he went on a journey to touch base (literally) with as many county sheriff’s as he can across America and discuss with them the importance of maintaining and preserving the valuable principles of liberty for the people in their counties.

Along the way, Micheal stops at local gas stations, eateries and other various town locations to talk to people, hand out information and help spread this important education.

Michael very cleverly began his trip at the Statue of Liberty, signifying the Liberty of our nation, and will conclude his adventure at Alcatraz, the prison - symbolizing the potential imprisonment that can come if we fail to inform ourselves and act.

I would like to give a virtual standing applause to Michael Maresco, the Liberty Rider, for being the epitome of “activism” as he is very literally being ACTIVE while he pedals across America spreading the great message of American freedom throughout!

May the Liberty Rider be an example to us all!

*Please consider helping to support Michael as he travels, by donating to his cause (http://libertyrider.com/). Donations help him to pay for lodging food and supplies.

-Veda
pedal pedal...

[mamakar]

Like the purpleoak...where red meets blue...very creative. Nice blog too. BTW I know you plan for the heat, etc....just couldn't resist a little NY humor. You know they make a hat with a little fan inside the top to cool you down...Bet ED could help you find one.......:D Pedal Pedal

[ronpaulhawaii]

http://www.sapulpaheraldonline.com/articles/2009/06/20/news/doc4a3d110e7d63e999830378.txt (http://www.sapulpaheraldonline.com/articles/2009/06/20/news/doc4a3d110e7d63e999830378.txt)


Constitutional philosopher on cross-country ride
http://www.sapulpaheraldonline.com/content/articles/2009/06/20/news/doc4a3d110e7d63e999830378.jpg Michael Maresco stopped in Sapulpa Friday afternoon as he pedals “from the Statue of Liberty to Alcatraz” in his one-man effort to raise understanding and awareness of the United States Constitution and what it means to a free people.

By Brian Patrick
Herald City Reporter

Published: Saturday, June 20, 2009 12:13 PM CDT

Michael Maresco is a man on a mission. “I’m riding from the Statue of Liberty to Alcatraz because that’s the way I believe this country is going,” he said outside the Creek County Sheriff’s Office Friday afternoon.

The Hawaii resident and New York native stopped in Sapulpa Friday afternoon on a Trans-continental bicycle ride that, when completed, will have taken him from New York City to San Francisco. He is stopping at sheriffs’ offices in every county he crosses during his ride.

Riding a bicycle and pulling a cart behind, Maresco displays five flags on a small flagpole attached to the cart. Each flag has meaning, he said. Beneath the Stars and Stripes, Maresco displays a 1776 Gadsden flag, commonly known as the “Don’t Tread On Me” flag.

The Gadsden flag, he says, was part of his inspiration for embarking on his journey. Maresco was shocked by a Department of Homeland Security report issued last spring labeling anyone flying the Gadsden flag, military veterans, those promoting anti-illegal immigration, anti-abortion or low tax views as potential terrorists.

“The final straw for me was labeling the veterans as potential terrorists,” Maresco said. “The freedom movement is not a domestic enemy. The guys in suits in New York and London are.”

In addition to the Stars and Stripes and Gadsden, Maresco flies the Washington Cruisers flag which the self-described “unorthodox Christian” considers a personally symbolic flag due to its bearing the words “an appeal to heaven,” and the First Continental Regular flag.

Maresco said he has taken one day of rest since beginning his ride on May 24. “It’s me alone pedaling, but there is 160,000 in a grass roots group supporting me,” he said. “I pedal alone, but I’m never more than a phone call away from help if I need it.”

Maresco said he has been joined at times by six other riders, all met during his trip, including one man who rode with him for 40 miles.

“People are fed up with the way this country is going and they’re ready for solutions,” he said. “I’m telling them that there are people that are working on solutions and that they are having success,” he said. “I think I’ve had two people that said ‘no, I’m not interested’”.

Maresco said the biggest challenge he has faced during his ride was climbing Pennsylvania’s Timmons Mountain. “I got a post on my blog asking if I was aware that that is where France sends its cyclists to train for the Tour de France,” he said.

The three-mile-long, 13 percent grade climb proved daunting for Maresco, who does not consider himself a cyclist although the journey marks the 48-year-old’s second time crossing the country by bicycle. Maresco is crossing the country on a $250 bicycle he said he purchased at Walmart.

“I’m a big fan of alternative fuels,” he said. “Environmentalists have abused their trust.”

Maresco said his biggest challenges have been logistics. “I have 100 counties to go through,” he said. “There’s 100,000 supporters we’re trying to rally to get the message out.” Maresco is handing out copies of the Constitution to people he meets on his journey. He said all of his literature, clothing and resources must fit into the cart he pulls.

Maresco spends his nights in motor courts and campgrounds.

Maresco said his ultimate goal during his ride is to get people back in touch with the Constitution. “I like the idea of keeping government local,” he said. “If, say, California wants to have socialized medicine, great. Let them have socialized medicine.”

“We have to learn that every time people have tried to set up a centralized government, absolute power corrupted and millions of people died,” he said. “Human nature doesn’t change.”

“Liberty demands responsibility,” Maresco said, “ and passing along a better world to our kids is part of being civilized.”

[JoshLowry]

Great write up. :)

[dr. hfn]

everyone should notify their local newspapers and call the reporters when Michael pedals into town!!!

[Cowlesy]

Great write up. :)

Seconded.

[eOs]

6/21/2009
Receipt ID e7eed43338050552
For: Ride For Honesty Support
Method: PayPal
Total: $17.76

donation bump

[ronpaulhawaii]

The Next Few Days
June 21st, 2009

Out of OKC, made all the south and now turning west again, a navigational waypoint. Getting ready to bake a bit. I think I may go with the arab style of desert wear. Imagine this… an Italian exposing Fascism, using “terrorist” canards while dressed like an Arab, pedaling a Schwinn and flying significant flags… haha…

The schedule for the next few days looks like
Monday El Reno to Clinton
Tuesday Clinton to Erick
Wednesday OK/TX Border to McLean

I’ll see how the wind and sun treat me and if I can think about making up a day somehow, always good to keep a buffer…

Cities are tough, and OKC is pretty big. 25miles through city traffic, potholes, storm drains, redlights, construction, ugh… As much as I enjoy meeting all the liberty folk that concentrate in the cities, I must say I am thankful to get out in one piece… (and I even skirted downtown).

On the way in I stopped at the Chandler County Sheriff Office.
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs084.snc1/4891_116456722952_663957952_2793877_6215068_n.jpg
Skeleton Crew and the deputy seemed to shut down at the name Ron Paul… ah well… worse, I had been easily buzzed in a backdoor and had to go back out to get the books, in the process I set down my helmet… I was a bit disconcerted leaving and by the time I realized my mistake I had travelled down a fairly large hill… that’s OK, I was going to have to switch to a shemagh soon anyway…

In OKC, I met up with a facebook friend Terri Creech. Her son Ben, and friend Steve, became Liberty Riders 7 & 8
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs084.snc1/4891_116453317952_663957952_2793800_569958_n.jpg

and had a great lunch with RJ Harris & (partial) Family. I do need to remember that just because other people are taking pictures, doesn’t mean I don’t need to… RJ’s eyes are those of a kindred soul and I truly hope we score a win with his race…

Anyway, I should hit the hay, will be working towards earlier starts as the heat increases… Here are some other pics though…
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs087.snc1/4912_1187075715867_1197514894_521049_1549969_n.jpg

Getting Interviewed in Salpulpa

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs087.snc1/4912_1187075875871_1197514894_521053_1650485_n.jpg

Senator Brogdon honored us with a visit

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs104.snc1/4891_116456732952_663957952_2793878_5945289_n.jpg

Get your kicks

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs107.snc1/4794_1190032750600_1221782802_30532101_7649250_n.j pg

pedaling does have its' rewards

[acptulsa]

How did I not get my favorite pic from the day posted?

http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/acptulsa/LIBERTYRIDER002.jpg

Four more LibertyRiders in one state! Li'l ol' Oklahoma is putting some pretty damned populous states to shame, folks! You guys out west--you gonna let Oklahoma show you up? ;) :D


everyone should notify their local newspapers and call the reporters when Michael pedals into town!!!

Worked for me! Actually, it isn't a bad idea to give them a few days lead time. One of the Tulsa newsweeklies showed an interest, and I should have another article to show by Thursday or so.


.....whats a mother to do..:-)

If you figure it out, I'm sure my own would love to be let in on the secret!

[LittleLightShining]

Fantastic! Great posts, guys :)

[torchbearer]

I love this thread!

[acptulsa]

Oh, and a special note to my fellow race fans--drafting does indeed work on bicycles. If you don't take the Tour de France guys' word for it, take Michael's and mine.

[ronpaulhawaii]

...
Worked for me! Actually, it isn't a bad idea to give them a few days lead time. One of the Tulsa newsweeklies showed an interest, and I should have another article to show by Thursday or so...

easy as pie :D

About Pedaling
June 22nd, 2009 Goto comments (http://libertyrider.com/about-pedaling/#comments) Leave a comment (http://libertyrider.com/about-pedaling/#respond) Edit (http://libertyrider.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=790)

Hooo doggy… a bit warm out there on the blacktop… heh… 97 in the shade when I got off the road, more with the humidity… woohoo…all good, cranked out 60 miles, thought about going for 90, for about a second, (till a hot blast of wind caught my face, as I sat in the shade of an overpass, looking onward.) The forecast has a bit of east in the wind tomorrow, we’ll see how it goes, would love to make up a day, but ya know, 100 degrees is freakin hot,


Anyway, speaking of overpasses, I made another milestone today, am finally able to ride on the interstate. Quite the change. Thought maybe I’d share a bit of the road with you all.


Surface plays a huge role in both speed and comfort. Smooth, seamless, aged asphalt is the best, keep it clear of debris and I am in heaven. I may roll a bit faster on concrete, but the cracks and regular joints (Bump>Roll-Roll>Bump>Roll-Roll>Bump>Roll-Roll>etc…), for twenty miles, or so, can get a bit tiresome. Every bump, crack and pebble I hit slows me down, a mile or two an hour might not seem like much, to most folk, but make a huge difference to a guy traveling at ten. My brother Tony, Liberty Rider #2, noted on the Jersey leg how much, even the different types of asphalt, effects pedaling. One of the surfaces I dread is a large stone mix that’ll leave my forearms vibrating for hours. Surfaces change often, seeing one ahead usually elicts a sigh, whose tone varies greatly…


The wind is another large factor, and I am always making it. Consider me pedaling at 10mph on a flat calm day, I have a 10mph wind pushing back at me… Even a 10mph tailwind, is to me a flat calm. A direct side wind is moved forward by my momentum and becomes a slight headwind. A sailor will tell you the math involved, but that is what they are talking about with “true” and “apparent” wind.


Probably needless to say that a strong, gusty, in your face headwind is the worst. The last few days have seen the track “staircase” west and south into south, and SSW winds. So while the west bits were a slight headwind, seeing a south turn ahead always saw me shaking my head with a, “here we go again…”. Though turning west was a relief of sorts, it was still great to get out of it finally, at the end of the day, and I am stoked that my southing is done.
I mentioned in yesterdays post a bit about cities. Big and small, they require termendous concentration. Disregarding the traffic and navigation issues, the road is a bear; city hot, and all bust up. Lots of construction zones and tube eating debris. Worse than the potholes and cracks are the parallel joints between concrete curbing and asphalt roadway. Often the joint is either a small ledge or the perfect width to grab my tire like a rut, and that could be very bad. And I have to ride along, inches away, for miles. I suppose the silver lining is that I have to concentrate so much on staying out of the ruts that I hardly notice the traffic… haha


I saw all kinds of roads navigating my way here, including dirt (which thankfully did not last long.) Knowing there is a major bridge ahead is always a bit nerve wracking. No matter how closely you pore over it on mapping software, until you actually see it, you don’t really know what you are facing. Holding up traffic on a narrow, long, high, bridge is never much fun. Ain’t no rest for the weary in such a situation. And, as a flat tire would make matters exponentially worse, the debris watch is heightened as well… It always feel like an accomplishment to cross a major one.


The country roads with little traffic are pleasant, but often hilly and rough. Usually no shoulders, as well. So some of them roads can become nightmares if they are local shortcuts, and heavily used during rush hours… I do just about everything I can to avoid slowing anyone down, what with the sign and mission and all… The mountain roads are usually always gorgeous, I hope to go back and see them sometime, on a motorcycle…


Route 66, though. That is a different animal altogether. I have not felt hurried or harrassed once while in the arms of the Mother Road, who has surely seen it all. It is like I am to be expected. My propoganda festooned cart, and I, merely add color and character to what must be America’s Most Charming Roadway. It truly has been a kick to pedal down Rt 66. Classic “Motor Courts” and filling stations, odd ball eateries and knick-knacks galore. Rolling through towns that have watched people pass through for decades. Motorcycle and Classic Car clubs, Solo and small group bikers packed for long hauls. I swear, if a Wagon Queen Family Truckster went by with a granny strapped to the roof, it would not look all that out of place.


Myriads of folk, out for a cruise…


The road itself varies by municiple jurisdiction. Most had been resurfaced, but some sections are the original jointed concrete (with no shoulder at all, just a 4in drop to dirt…), but, as I mentioned above, the travellers had no problem giving me space and time, often it was two lanes and I ambled along my own. The real traffic was on the interstate in the distance. While I looked forward to reaching here where I can finally use them, I certainly am stoked that the routing led me down that legendary road. It was kinda the last thing on my mind while planning. Hadn’t really given it much thought. Now, after experiancing it’s magic, I hope to go back on my own dime and really amble along (in a vehicle with AC - haha)


And now it is the interstates. I like ‘em. Actually feel safer with the wide shoulders and hign visibilty, (no blind corners and hilltops). Another plus is the fairly regular overpasses offering respite from the relentless heat. Chances are, if you ever see a bike parked under an overpass, you’ll see the rider splayed out in the shade on the cool concrete, and if you listen close, you might even hear the sigh… The final good thing about the interstates is the gentler grades, the hills more cut and the valleys more filled. Seeing parallel roads in the distance today happily reminded me of that.


They can get nasty at times, narrow bridges with little debris filled “shoulders”. Even worse can be “rotten” shoulders with gravel filled craters, or the monotonous jolts of a jointed roadway, all. day. long… Construction Zones are usually a bit dicey, as well. Like a bridge, you don’t know what you are facing till you see it. Saw the standard warning display today,”rightlane closed ahead.” It was still a ways up the road so I got off and onto an overpass to see what I could see. Still too far away, so I pedaled back onto the highway and hoped for the best, (while the work must leave room for normal wide loads, there can be narrow lanes for miles… While I am staisfied the flag array provides plenty visibilty, it can still be nerve wracking. ) As I pedaled up to it I was pleasently surprised by the sight of new lanes and the crews working the other side. The shoulder was actaully too new but the closed lane had been done earlier so I had a perfect track to myself for about ten miles… ahhhhhhh…


I don’t really know how much this all relates to the reason I’m out here, only to say that the road I’m traveling is a lot like life. Sometimes silky smooth, but usually a bit rough, with some better stretches. It sometimes changes directions and labels, loops around curious obstacles, sometimes even breaks and we have to find detours, which then become part of our road. But what is important is to keep pedeling on. Nothing of value comes easily, so embrace the hardship and press on, keeping eyes on the goal. I may sarcastically curse when I come up to a county line and see a crappy roadway ahead, but cannot stop.


That is unthinkable, the stakes are too high…


pedal pedal
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs084.snc1/4891_116810542952_663957952_2800593_7623039_n.jpg

[sluggo]

http://www.sapulpaheraldonline.com/articles/2009/06/20/news/doc4a3d110e7d63e999830378.txt (http://www.sapulpaheraldonline.com/articles/2009/06/20/news/doc4a3d110e7d63e999830378.txt)

That story only has a 3-star rating.

I expect you guys to help fix that.

[torchbearer]

That story only has a 3-star rating.

I expect you guys to help fix that.

voted

[Njon]

Great to see that you met Sen. Brogdon.

Ron Paul Forums, Sen. Brogdon only has one primary opponent in the race for governor and it's winnable. Not easy, but winnable. We need to support him. http://www.randybrogdon.com/ and http://www.ronpaulforums.com/showthread.php?t=189483

[acptulsa]

Wow, Michael. Great post.

Oklahoma City was, last I heard, the second largest city in the nation. That sprawling nature makes it, like most cities in this part of the nation, less crowded than some, but that has drawbacks too--the agressive cut-and-thrust of rush hour happens at higher speeds. I think Oklahoma is somewhat a mixed blessing--we are seldom kind to pedestrians--but drivers seemed awfully kind to us in, for example, the narrow confines of Catoosa. I think your rig fires their curiosity, and that takes the edge off their hurry.

You didn't mention my least favorite. Storm drain grates! The new ones have bars that run perpendicular to the direction of travel. It might shake your fillings loose like a bad chatterstrip, but the old ones with parallel bars will grab your wheel like a vise and send you flying. How you manage with four wheels is beyond me.

And, yes, the heat. The dog days are certainly upon us. But at least the sauna mode after the monsoon season has more or less passed, though the extra heat can indeed make up for it. I always found I could take the expansion joints of concrete just to avoid the heatwave that asphalt radiates day and night...

Well, you're in the flatlands now. God's Billiard Table. No significant hills until Tucumcari. Like red dirt country? Out nearer Amarillo I always found the landscape kind of Christmasy. You have green grass growing from red dirt. Throw in a little snow-colored rock and it's surprisingly colorful.

Happy pedaling, Iron Man. Wish I had the time and the endurance to still be riding with...


Ron Paul Forums, Sen. Brogdon only has one primary opponent in the race for governor and it's winnable. Not easy, but winnable. We need to support him. http://www.randybrogdon.com/ and http://www.ronpaulforums.com/showthread.php?t=189483

QFT!! And that primary opponent is none other than bailout voter Rep. Mary Fallin--gag! We've got a tough fight to beat the b****. We'll be beating the street, but we'll be needing all the help we can get. Randy is indeed a good one; he's much, much better than the sitting Democrat Brad Henry. If Fallin wins, I'll probably vote to reelect Henry. Fallin and Brogdon are night and day. Thanks for the plug, Njon!

[ronpaulhawaii]

Thanks Anthony :)

About to get going... Oathkeepers posted this

http://oath-keepers.blogspot.com/2009/06/michael-maresco-liberty-rider-and-oath.html

and I've started getting donations from Iraq . A bit overwhelming and gives me great strength.

GO GRASSROOTS!!!

[acptulsa]

And I've started getting donations from Iraq . A bit overwhelming and gives me great strength.

Wow. God bless 'em. Stay safe, soldiers, sailors, flyboys and Marines. Thank you so much. And watch that heat yourselves...

By the way, Michael, you're not in Pennsylvania any more. Out here a steak sandwich is a highly tenderized veal cutlet, breaded like chicken, fried, and dressed as a hamburger. When that heat seeps out of your bones in the evening and that deep hunger seeps in behind it, try one! :p:cool:

[ronpaulhawaii]

Wow. God bless 'em. Stay safe, soldiers, sailors, flyboys and Marines. Thank you so much. And watch that heat yourselves...

By the way, Michael, you're not in Pennsylvania any more. Out here a steak sandwich is a highly tenderized veal cutlet, breaded like chicken, fried, and dressed as a hamburger. When that heat seeps out of your bones in the evening and that deep hunger seeps in behind it, try one! :p:cool:

mmmm... sounds good :)

Last Day in Oklahoma
June 23rd, 2009
And I sure am glad I came. These folk down here are at the front of the pack and driving hard. Many and much mahalo to all who came down to say hi, helped out, and rode with me for quite a few miles. Y’all have a great state full of decent people. Weathered faces with easy smiles and all glad to hear my message. I absolutely love using something like the following, “and this here grassroots group is lobbying congress hard to audit the federal reserve… (you know they ain’t really federal and reserves is bit of a stretch, as well), anyway, we figure that there is the vipers nest, itself. And if we audit it, it’ll all become clear how they’ve been robbing us blind. Then, we can get rid of ‘em like we have twice before in US History… ”

Everyone seems to respond well to the “vipers nest” bit; had one guy give me the ol’ “good luck-haha” - till I told him we were up to 220 co-sponsors (237 as I write http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif wonder what kind of sneaky tricks they are thinking up… ) That made em think for a bit…
Anyway, OK was more than OK. Thanks http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif

Pedaling today was hot, but with a slight tailwind, quite a relief from the last week or so of headwinds
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs084.snc1/4891_117267812952_663957952_2807807_709112_n.jpg
Above, I am on a frontage road, cooling off under an overpass. Had a curious experiance under an interstate overpass today. I was taking a break when an old white pickup pulled over and backed toward me. I got up to say hi. The old man asked what I was up to, I gave him the spiel, he asked if he could buy me a soda at the nearby store, I declined saying thanks, but I have water and did not want to pedal off the interstate. Then… he asked me if, “I play around?” OMG - I was hit on by a dirty old man at an interstae rest area, (albiet, not an offical rest area, but still). I politely declined, and walked away, shaking my head… strange… The girls on Facebook are all teasing me about being cute, and how I should be flattered (grrrrr… - lol) When hotties start pulling over for me on the interstate, then I’ll be more agreeable… haha

Had a couple construction issues today
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs104.snc1/4891_117267802952_663957952_2807805_1936106_n.jpg
Never a good sign… Having a lane closed is one thing, being closed to standard wide loads means something entirely different. I pedaled up to it to find major overpass work and tiny lanes. If I had to I could have timed the traffic, turned up the volume, and pedaled like the hounds of hell were behind me for the short distances involved, but luckily there was a frontage road that turned into a great detour.
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs084.snc1/4891_117267807952_663957952_2807806_5111736_n.jpg
It started out a bit rough, took a few chances (rather than fire up the computer for a detailed look at the dilemna), asked a few locals, and found a route not all that much longer, nor very much rougher, and only a bit hillier. What was cool about it was it turned into a historic section of 66 that had the original on one side of me, the “Historic” that I was on, and the interstate on the other side of me. Three generations in parellel…

Even better, the road was hardly travelled, and with the tailwind I had gotten almost 50miles from 1 battery, had 10miles to go with 2 full batts, so turned up the juice and flew the last few miles. I still havent really opened it up, (without ground support, don’t want to take any chances and am gentle with the rig…), but I really love the upgrades on this bike. I hopen to get around to a post dedicated to the rig, one of these days…

Pedaling here in the open west gives me planty time to think, and one of the things I’ve been thinking about regards a sticker on my bike.The one below the RP signature one that say’s, “Classical Liberal”

Ya know, one of the prime ways our country has been stolen from us is the corruption and misuse of language, words. It really is that simple. Take the word “liberal” for example. The people using it are certainly not liberal, in the classic sense. In fact, they are quite the opposite and giving the term a bad name. And on the supposedly other side we have the neo-cons using it like the ultimate insult. So basically, both supposed sides of the virtual aisle are giving true liberals a bad name. In other words, they are giving liberty lovers a bad name. Us!!!

I think we should take it back from them. They took it from us, no reason we can’t take it back…

“I am a liberal”, a conservative one, at that…

haha

Oh yeah, an OK Deputy surprised me with a second star …
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs104.snc1/4891_117267817952_663957952_2807808_1920171_n.jpg
http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif
pedal pedal

[acptulsa]

Anyway, OK was more than OK. Thanks http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif

Mahalo yourself, and aloha. Y'all come back now, y'hear?

[Cowlesy]

hahahaha...you got hit on by an old dude on the interstate

"Hey there feller...wants some candy? Just reach into my pocket and take it" --- in dirty old man voice

You are certainly right about the misuse of terms like liberal and conservative. Hope you straighten some of those folks out!

[acptulsa]

It hasn't hit the online version of the paper yet. I'll post a link if and when it does. But, in the meantime, here's a preview (sans photos) of the Claremore Daily Progress article:

Liberty Rides On

J. Blythe Ammons

CLAREMORE DAILY PROGRESS


“Give me Liberty or give me death,” are the infamous words of Patrick Henry. It is for liberty that cross country cyclist, Michael Maresco, says he rides. He began his journey at the Statue of Liberty and will finish at Alcatraz Island. Along the way, Maresco stopped in Claremore on Thursday to visit with local lawmen and to share his message. Maresco met with Undersheriff Tom Harrison and Captain Michael McElhaney to discuss government concerns. Maresco convenes with county officers, because the Sheriff holds an elected position. He says it is a mandated office upheld by the United States Constitution.

“We are facing serious problems in this country everyone knows that, but the solutions are simple and contained in the constitution,” said Maresco. “One serious problem is business interests in bed with government interests. When corporations and government marry, that is the historical definition of fascism.”

Maresco says he is not a bicyclist. He peddles on to gain attention for the cause. He rides through storms and sunshine, hot and cold, morning and evening. A few stops along the way have put him in good company and bad, but he pushes on and keeps promoting.

When Maresco pays a visit to sheriffs, he gives them a stack of reading material. One book he hands out is Freedom Under Siege by Congressman Ron Paul.

The Texas representative is calling for an audit of the Federal Reserve with the Federal Reserve Transparency Act, HR 1207. Congressman Paul wants to expose where money is being spent. He says the United States has a $9.3 trillion obligation and that he can’t get straight answers from the treasury department. In addition, the Federal Reserve has locked books.

The bill is co-sponsored by over half of the members of the House of Representatives and still gaining support. Oklahoma Representative Frank D. Lucas is listed as a co-sponsor.

There is a companion bill for the senate called The Federal Reserve Sunshine Act, sponsored by Senator Bernie Sanders.

The philosophy of liberty embraces an appropriate amount of government authority. It says when government oversteps its boundary, and expands its power past constitutional limits, then freedom recedes. When government operates as it was constitutionally intended, people are free to produce and keep the fruit of their labor.

Maresco said over-taxation and over-regulation are infringing on Americans. He calls some national leaders tyrants for their conduct.

“Tyrannical people got a hold of our economy and that is why our economy is crashing. Top officials in this country are beholding special interests.”

He calls for Americans to work together and to stand up for freedom.

“When looking back we don’t want to say why didn’t we do anything.”

To track Mareso’s progress, go to libertyrider.com


She says it got a full page! She also said PBS was in town to do a show on the effect Will Rogers has had on journalism in the U.S. Watch for it!

[ronpaulhawaii]

[comments :D interspersed-rph]


It hasn't hit the online version of the paper yet. I'll post a link if and when it does. But, in the meantime, here's a preview (sans photos) of the Claremore Daily Progress article:

Liberty Rides On

J. Blythe Ammons

CLAREMORE DAILY PROGRESS


“Give me Liberty or give me death,” are the infamous words of Patrick Henry. It is for liberty that cross country cyclist, Michael Maresco, says he rides. ...

“We are facing serious problems in this country everyone knows that, but the solutions are simple and contained in the constitution,” said Maresco. “One serious problem is business interests in bed with government interests. When corporations and government marry, that is the historical definition of fascism.” :D

When Maresco pays a visit to sheriffs, he gives them a stack of reading material. One book he hands out is Freedom Under Siege by Congressman Ron Paul. :confused:

The Texas representative is calling for an audit of the Federal Reserve with the Federal Reserve Transparency Act, HR 1207. Congressman Paul wants to expose where money is being spent. He says the United States has a $9.3 trillion obligation and that he can’t get straight answers from the treasury department. In addition, the Federal Reserve has locked books. :D

The bill is co-sponsored by over half of the members of the House of Representatives and still gaining support. Oklahoma Representative Frank D. Lucas is listed as a co-sponsor.

There is a companion bill for the senate called The Federal Reserve Sunshine Act, sponsored by Senator Bernie Sanders. :cool:

The philosophy of liberty embraces an appropriate amount of government authority. It says when government oversteps its boundary, and expands its power past constitutional limits, then freedom recedes. When government operates as it was constitutionally intended, people are free to produce and keep the fruit of their labor. <DING DING DING> we have a winner!!! - haha :)

Maresco said over-taxation and over-regulation are infringing on Americans. He calls some national leaders tyrants for their conduct. :D

“Tyrannical people got a hold of our economy and that is why our economy is crashing. Top officials in this country are beholding special interests.”

He calls for Americans to work together and to stand up for freedom. :)

“When looking back we don’t want to say why didn’t we do anything.”

To track Mareso’s progress, go to libertyrider.com


She says it got a full page! She also said PBS was in town to do a show on the effect Will Rogers has had on journalism in the U.S. Watch for it!

haha - money alone can't buy that kind of (full page:D) messaging, and neither can one man, Everyone who helped in anyway shares in, what I consider, a successful stop in Claremore OK. :) //

Acptulsa, you nailed it with a simple phone call, THANK YOU!!!

[acptulsa]

Acptulsa, you nailed it with a simple phone call, THANK YOU!!!

Well, it was more than one, but considering how you're busting your butt to be newsworthy it doesn't feel like very damned much. The mahalos go to YOU!

[ronpaulhawaii]

Slow Connection/Quick Post
June 25th, 2009 Goto comments (http://libertyrider.com/slow-connectionquick-post/#comments) Leave a comment (http://libertyrider.com/slow-connectionquick-post/#respond) Edit (http://libertyrider.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=800)

I am in Alanreed TX. Pop-53. Am posting through a 1x connection on my phone so will be brief.


Crossing a border is always cool
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs104.snc1/4891_117610707952_663957952_2813990_5656538_n.jpg
You can see some touristas taking pictures as well. As soon as I got this shot, I pedaled up and pitched them, so basically started working Texas as soon as I arrived - haha.


There were no county seats on the route, but Shamrock TX has a sub-station that I detoured to and met a real Texas Lawman
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs104.snc1/4891_117610717952_663957952_2813991_2447128_n.jpg
We had a long conversation. He was raised a Democrat and feels his party left him, like I feel the GOP left me. He thinks the radicals, on both sides, are in charge and wonders if they are trying to provoke a violent scenario. He thought I was Libertarian, at first, and didn’t care for third parties (”spoilers”) I came back with some history of parties in this country and the “lessor of two evils is still evil” philosophy. I explained how I had always leaned right, but that I had usually given my top ticket votes to the LP rather than vote for, what I considered evil. That got him thinking. All in all a great stop


There is a Rt66 Landmark in Shamrock
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs104.snc1/4891_117610727952_663957952_2813992_5665587_n.jpg
I wish I had time to GIMP out the wires…


Pedaling was pretty smooth, slight tailwinds and mostly good surfaces… Ran into one section of full shoulder rumblestrips that rattled me until I could get off onto a frontage road. Got back on later and it was less severe. On the frontage road I saw this whimsical spread
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs084.snc1/4891_117610757952_663957952_2813994_3232210_n.jpg


Also, had some interesting conversations at truckstops. You meet all kinds out here…


pedal pedal

[acptulsa]

Don't let that Texas heat give you double vision.

And, yes, from his free thinking mind to the Stetson that shades it, that is a real Texas lawman. Hope to heaven he's not a dying breed...

[CaseyJones]

WooHoo Brushfires of Liberty!!!!

[acptulsa]

WooHoo Brushfires of Liberty!!!!

:D Crankin' up that grapevine!

[ronpaulhawaii]

Changing countryside (http://libertyrider.com/changing-countryside/)

June 26th, 2009
(http://libertyrider.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=803)

Have left the trees behind, wide open spaces. Still green, but the canyons are starting. Climbed all day, low grade, but still…


Mostly interstate, had one section where the shoulder was all beat up and rattling my cage, so I checked for snakes and dragged the rig off onto the frontage road. The Frontage Roads are always a crap-shoot, they sometimes veer and tie in with crossroads, sending me miles further than necessary. Often they are a rough surface. They, also, usually go around the luxurious shade of the overpasses… But sometimes they are fairly smooth, and it is nice to be able to ride in the middle of the road, far from the debris, tooling along…


Speaking of snakes, I’ve seen heaps. All flat, but heaps, regardless. Started in the Ozarks… Reminds me to stay on my toes when stopping… Saw a rabbit chasing a road-runner yesterday, thought that was kinda strange… Haven’t seen much else, alive, just lots of roadkill. Other than a cursury glance for known species, I try to ignore it, (and avoid it, as well - haha). It does serve as a kinda barometer of geographical/climate change, and lets me know what the true wind direction is… This is a family blog, so I’ll leave the turtle story off…


It was hot yesterday, and the ride was 65miles that was basically all uphill. The wind was in my face in the morning, but moderated and turned SE as the day progressed. On the interstates I usually pull into rest areas and take 5. The rig attracts the tourists and I just sit there and hand out fliers and talk to folk. I’m finding people are more interested in this rig than they were the RP one. I am finding that the vast majority of people are receptive to my denouncing of the Federal Reserve. Everyone knows we are being lied to and robbed, and are thankful to be getting info on the real culprits. I tell people that I am not being paid by any of these orgs, and none are perfect, but all are working towards exposing the truth, and that the links they will follow from these will certainly open their eyes…


I stopped for lunch in Groom TX, all of you who donated bought me an open faced chicken steak sandwich smothered in white gravy. It was great. Thanks. On the way out of town I came across a house with 4×8 RP signs still up.
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs104.snc1/4891_118219492952_663957952_2825442_2162458_n.jpg


That certainly brightened my day. I stopped and knocked, no answer, so left some gifts on the porch (including a Mack book and a note to please deliver it for us), then, pedaled on.
Also had a difficult flat to fix, took two attempts and still has a slow leak…
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs104.snc1/4891_118219482952_663957952_2825441_3990417_n.jpg


Usually, I can just remove the tube, fill it with air, and roll it past my cheek to feel the air escaping. I did that, but did not catch the nine other tiny holes that this piece of retread had created. In the end I had to cut up some truck tire patches a garage had given me on the last trip into strips and cover about an 8 inch section… That was sufficient to get me here, but will be shopping today for new tubes and tires…


Have a short distance day today. Only 44 miles, so should be able to get the tires issues sorted, am waiting for the stores to open now. Will pedal to the Sheriff first, then the stores, then back on the highway. May try increasing power today to experiment with speed to distance ratios…


Finally, I am within $750 of my fundraising goal and would love to close that out early (before the Kokesh Money Bomb on 7/4/09). If you have donated, thanks; if you haven’t and can, please do. I’d love to replace the donation widget with a video playlist…


pedal pedal

[acptulsa]

Our man's panhandling!

No, I'm not talking about the donation threads. I'm talking about how he's in the Panhandle country of Texas. But since you brought up the donation threads, I'll just bet you can find one... :)

[ronpaulhawaii]

Our man's panhandling!

No, I'm not talking about the donation threads. I'm talking about how he's in the Panhandle country of Texas. But since you brought up the donation threads, I'll just bet you can find one... :)

I catch them scrolling through when I get a chance to hit new posts. Am almost afraid to post in them, (always felt I was a bit of a thread killer - haha) I am deeply moved by the support of this forum. I can't quite tell you all in words how much it means to me that you guys have led the charge on supporting this ride.

much aloha, and many, many, many, mahalos...

[acptulsa]

By the way, you've got a cold wave coming through some time tomorrow. Only 95F or so behind it. Hope you didn't pack your jacket too deep!

[Cowlesy]

Great work and good posts!

[disorderlyvision]

how come this thread isn't a sticky?

[JoshLowry]

Stickies don't tend to get as many views as a naturally bumped thread.

[ronpaulhawaii]

The Panhandle of Texas
June 26th, 2009 [/URL][URL="http://libertyrider.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=807"]
(http://libertyrider.com/the-panhandle-of-texas/#comments)

Will be leaving it tomorrow. A quick run compared to the last (that seemed to go on forever. Texas is a big friggin state…)All Rt 66 towns, some of which gives one a real feel for the “Old West”. The picture of the Lawman of Shamrock, from a couple posts back, kinda defines that.


The stop at the Potter County Sheriff went well.
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs104.snc1/4891_118432497952_663957952_2829649_598961_n.jpg


When I first pulled up I saw no furniture and guys painting. I thought, “hmmmm, remodeling?” So I opened the door and asked if this was still the sheriff office, it was. I asked if any were around, they were. By then I had noticed these guys were not your avg. “painter” looking types, so asked, “are you guys sheriffs?” They were - haha. They asked me what I wanted and I told them I was riding a bike cross country, had some stuff for them and I’d be right back…


As usual, they were a bit skeptical as I started, but remember, these are LEOs, they are suspicious and skeptical by profession. Again, as usual they warmed up as I talked about why I was there. They nodded heads as I mentioned the DHS reports and how outrageous they are. They agreed when I stated that the “modern freedom movement” is no domestic enemy and if anyone is, it is guys in suits in NY and DC. (They usually smile at that one) Then I hit em with a new line I’ve been developing about how, “the balance of power in this country is all off kilter, and the federal government is getting way too powerful. They are trying to federalize the police and that is a very dangerous thing. We need to restore the balance of power between FedGov and The States and you guys are on the front lines of that battle. So here is some info… (as I handed them a set including a copy of Vieira’s Constitutional Hoemland Security - thanks Tim-” They liked that!


It was classic, by the time I left we had shaken hands like friends and both had a smile and good word for my safe travels. On the way out I remarked how impressed I was that they were doing the work themselves. They shrugged and said that it was “their office and the taxpayers don’t need to spend a god-awful amount of money for contractors to keep it nice”


Kudos to the Potter County Sheriff Dept, both for your hospitality, and more for being fiscally responsible with citizen money.


In other news, I want to thank y’all for buying me new tires and tubes for the bike. After the cart had it’s first flat yesterday, I noticed how thin the rubber was on the tires (they had been used on the last trip, as well. I’m real surprised I haven’t had more trouble with them and got this far with out a flat


http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs084.snc1/4891_118432507952_663957952_2829650_572397_n.jpg


The part you are looking at is about tube thin, and that is the tire I kept for a spare.
Here is one of the new tires
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs084.snc1/4891_118432512952_663957952_2829651_1863077_n.jpg


Not exactly a road tread (will slow me down slightly), but all they had for a set and will work

just fine.


While there I got a spare front tire,
http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs084.snc1/4891_118432517952_663957952_2829652_7274891_n.jpg


because the one I have on has some hefty gouges that are bubbling a bit and I’d hate to have a sidewall blowout far from a store, (duct tape’ll only get me so far - haha). And I also picked up spare tubes for goathead country…


http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs084.snc1/4891_118432532952_663957952_2829653_8253746_n.jpg


So I should be set on rubber. Thanks all, peace of mind, heading into the desert, truly is priceless.


Finally, kudos to all who lobbied congress on the cap and trade bill. We need to just keep on keeping on. Increase the pressure from all sides. Win, Lose, or Draw, it’s how you play the game. Perhaps the Senate’ll go our way and we can kill it there. Also, we can tell who the Faux-GOP is by the votes and if you live in one of the turncoats districts. HAMMER THEM!!! In the press, at their office, at the GOP meetings/Lincoln dinners. return their fundraising appeals with parting “gifts” and THROW THE BUMS OUT!!!


GO GRASSROOTS!!!

[Aratus]

Way to Go! RPH!

[ronpaulhawaii]

New Mexico, Land of Enchantment
June 27th, 2009 [/URL][URL="http://libertyrider.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=810"]
(http://libertyrider.com/new-mexico-land-of-enchantment/#comments)

Left Texas this morning bucking a headwind. A little bit nerve wracking as I had 77 miles to make today. Luckily it did not last all day and by the end I had a tailwind helping me along. That was a blessing
On the way out of Texas I found a Sheriff Office and stopped in to have a chat.
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs084.snc1/4891_118822777952_663957952_2836981_1154743_n.jpg


The only one there was the dispatcher, but she was really sweet and glad I stopped by. The line about the imbalance of power is working well…


I entered New Mexico and a new time zone


http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs084.snc1/4891_118822787952_663957952_2836982_7402646_n.jpg


Mountain Time… (uh oh - haha)


Minutes after taking this I stopped at the NM Vistor Center. Had a great talk with one of the workers, gave her a card and she said she would check it out. Out front a few people wanted to take pictures of me and the bike, (the price was taking a flier and promising to look into it) One guy kinda ticked me off though. A Boy Scout “leader” walked away from his troop to look at the bike and gave me a “not interested” when I tried to give him a flier. Being neither friendly, courteous, nor kind, he is an Oathbreaker, and I shuddered to think he is acting like a role model for young boys. Oh well, you can’t win ‘em all. That makes three “not interested” the entire trip, so far. Not a bad average, but still… Luckily, lots of other folk who had seen me on the road quickly distracted me from the creep.
The road is long
http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs084.snc1/4891_118822772952_663957952_2836980_6078877_n.jpg


and it got quite hot by the time I made it to this town. Upon arrival I was greeted by a strange sign of the times


http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs084.snc1/4891_118822792952_663957952_2836983_3988545_n.jpg


I don’t have a problem with cops, but do have a problem with fear tactics and lies pushing a Police State.


And that is why I ride…

[torchbearer]

I feel very sad, deep in my soul, when I read the lines about the Boy Scout leader.
Keep up the good work Michael.
Will you be near santa fe for Kokesh's bash?

[ClayTrainor]

I don’t have a problem with cops, but do have a problem with fear tactics and lies pushing a Police State.


And that is why I ride…

f'in awesome Michael! This is some inspirational stuff, man, i'm so proud of what you're doing!

I'm impressed that you've only encountered 3 "not interested" people on your entire trip so far. You must be getting pretty dam good at talking about this stuff, and approaching people the right way.

Keep up the great work for libert, man! :)

[ronpaulhawaii]

I feel very sad, deep in my soul, when I read the lines about the Boy Scout leader.
Keep up the good work Michael.
Will you be near santa fe for Kokesh's bash?

Yeah, it bothered me much more than the other two. I wanted to say something about oathbreaking , but pretty much held my tounge...

Yes, will be 250 miles past Santa Fe, but the Freedoms Phoenix guys will be shuttling me back for it...

looking at 60 miles today, 40% chance of T-Strorms, mostly cloudy and cooler :), with a tailwind :). Will climb about 1500ft, descend about 1000 and gain 500ft on the continental divide... Good Morning :)

[ronpaulhawaii]

The Desert Begins



A bit of a strange day today. Good, but strange. Not Ohio psycho strange, but a bit surreal. Started out great. Stayed in a great little "Mom and Pop" Rt 66 Motel. Was recently restored and a classic. Was pretty full and as I was packing up quite a few folk came out to talk. One guy, once he found out what I was about, had to go get his wife... Most everyone I talk to is real appreciative of what we are doing here, hopefully they take home and act on my message that "We NEED them" I've been playing on the "honesty" thing lately. Telling people, "For too long we have just accepted that politicians lie, well, that is not the way it should be, and we don't have to accept it..."


So, I finally got out of there and made my way to the Quay County Sheriff Office. As it was Sunday I had my doubts on finding anyone, and that was about the case when, lo and behold, a Sheriff Car pulls in next door. So I pedaled over and said Hi. I started into my spiel when body language told me this guy was not going to warm up. That is rare on this trip. I could tell he was being patient with me but had other things on his mind and didn't want to chat. So I cut it short, he kindly said, "so I guess you'd like me to give these to the boss?" I said "yes, please". He said "sure, I'll do that". I said thanks and pedaled off. I chalked it up to being a stranger with a peculiar mission on a Sunday morning and was simply glad to have found someone there.


But that wasn't really strange, just not the norm on this trip.


One thing that was kinda strange was, as I was leaving town, a small white pick-up (NM? 671) pulled over up the road, a guy got out, snapped my pic with an expensive cam, and as I approached got in his truck and sped off... Hmmmmm... Most people taking someones picture at least say's hi...


But what was more strange, was pedaling into the desert in late June in a cold rain. I'm serious, I mean, I know it rains and this is not full on desert yet, but it was still kinda surreal, wondering if I should put on a jacket after the heat of the last few days. It was kinda cool though, I could almost hear the earth soaking in the life giving water with a gentle sigh.


The pedaling was great though. The shoulder was good most of the way, and had 22 miles of new construction where it was very smooth and fast. The road was cut down to 1 lane but the shoulder is very wide and it was fine.


Had some big long hills, but was pretty much low grade and the nearby train tracks told me that hills don't get much better than this. Of course the train tracks were even more graded than the Interstate but still no biggie, just a matter of keeping my feet moving and eventually the top is there.


The next strange thing to happen was a semi going very slowly past me on the interstate. Again I was, Hmmmm...? They usually are whipping past and there was no reason for driving slow where I was. He got ahead of me, pulled over, got out, and started walking to the back of the truck. I figured maybe he had heard his load shift or something, but he got to the back of the truck and kept coming. It was obvious he wanted to talk... In over 5000 miles of pedaling this was a first,


Well, turns out he was an old Army Vet (Vietnam) who had pedaled across three times and wanted to share his stories with another trans-con. So I made a friend on the side of an interstate. He had quite a few stories, including crossing Death Valley and barely making it out alive. He was the type to ignore politics, but I think I may have got him with the line about history and everyone wondering why the Germans didn't do anything when Fascism's ugliness arose. I hope so... Anyway, Ward, if you read this, thanks for stopping and it was great chatting, please do get more involved, your country NEEDS you.


So, after we parted I pedaled on, it started raining again, but never really poured and it wasn't bad. I just kept thinking of what a goon Al Gore is. It kinda pees me off that the tyrants are using the environment to enslave people. They use heart string issues to suck in the innocent and get them to help, the poor saps don't even know how badly they are being used. I really think we need to take the environmental issue away from the tyrants. They are only using it for their own nefarious purposes and will actually hurt the planet more with their greedy schemes. I'm not sure how we can do that, but I know our position is logical and makes more sense. I'll continue to muse...


The final strange thing to happen was really cool. As I pulled into town I tooled up the main drag looking for a suitably inexpensive motel. I saw a Harley Club that had passed me earlier in the day at this Motel 6, and after looking around town decided this was probably the best bet, so pulled in. They were looking at me curiously when one mentioned that I sure do move along. I said, yeah, but I do have some help and pointed out the front hub... Then, one of the girls asked, "are you the only one doing this?" I said yes, she then said, "well you sure do move along cause I saw you pedal past my house in Missouri a while back". Haha - That got everyone's attention and I got to use the Statue of Liberty to Alcatraz line, which they loved.


As I checked in they were gathered around the bike, checking out the flags and stickers, pointing and smiling. I knew they liked my rig and was kinda stoked... It is moments like that that I remind me why I don't wear "cyclist" gear on the road. I mean, I am sure the tight fitting gear is great for slipping through the wind, but pulling up in my Dickie shorts, Walk For Freedom shirt, and Gadsden Hat clearly says I am an activist, not really a cyclist, and that earns respect from some quarters...


What with the rain I didn't get the camera out much, but did take a couple.


This shot did not come out as I hoped.
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs086.snc1/4906_119233317952_663957952_2847675_1431716_n.jpg
I wanted to capture a few things, the emptiness, the abandoned rail station, but mainly the signage, which always makes me laugh. The bottom little sign has a pic of a bicycle and says "use shoulder only" uh duh... It is a friggin interstate, only a Darwin Award contender would need that sign...


And here is something I got a kick out of
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs086.snc1/4906_119233312952_663957952_2847674_1973715_n.jpg
That's about it. I have a very long day tomorrow (80miles) with 3000 ft of climbing over a 7000ft pass. Will descend 1500 ft, so will be gaining 1500 on the divide.


Pedal pedal

[AdamT]

Love the tales from the road. Be safe out there.

[acptulsa]

What with the rain I didn't get the camera out much, but did take a couple.


This shot did not come out as I hoped...

You're taking great shots, though. New Mexico is just way too big to fit in that little box. What can you do?

Well, when the grades get worse you'll rest more often, and while you're resting you'll have more bluffs to shoot at. I, for one, am looking forward to it. It has been too long since I was out that way. I miss it.

Have you been to Albuquerque and Santa Fe before? They're quite different from anything else, and from each other too. I love them both.

[ronpaulhawaii]

Love the tales from the road. Be safe out there.

:)


You're taking great shots, though. New Mexico is just way too big to fit in that little box. What can you do?

Well, when the grades get worse you'll rest more often, and while you're resting you'll have more bluffs to shoot at. I, for one, am looking forward to it. It has been too long since I was out that way. I miss it.

Have you been to Albuquerque and Santa Fe before? They're quite different from anything else, and from each other too. I love them both.

I'll be sure and take more pics... and have never been to either.

Terri shot some vid in OKC...

YouTube - Liberty Rider Michael Maresco on Conspiracy Theorists and Sheeple (1/2) (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JF--LA-KC0Q)

YouTube - Liberty Rider Michael Maresco on Terrorists and our Troops (2/2) (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQFSIY0s6Uw)

[ronpaulhawaii]

A Doozy of a Day
June 30th, 2009 Goto comments (http://libertyrider.com/a-doozy-of-a-day/#comments) Leave a comment (http://libertyrider.com/a-doozy-of-a-day/#respond) Edit (http://libertyrider.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=819)

Yesterday was the longest of the trip so far. On the map it was 86.5 miles, on the ground closer to 90 including stops, detours, etc. Add the that the first 60 miles was practically all an uphill 3000ft climb. Here is the chart:
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs107.snc1/4792_119713442952_663957952_2857858_3337927_n.jpg
Add to that 100degree heat, add to that a morning headwind, and finally add the debris filled roadway that, thankfully, only gave me one flat
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs107.snc1/4792_119706562952_663957952_2857703_5778049_n.jpg
Here is the culprit
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs107.snc1/4792_119706567952_663957952_2857704_7422463_n.jpg
I had to pull quite a few out of all my tires but, thankfully, the extra protection turned back the rest. It is always a crapshoot when pulling a thorn or wire from a tire. You never know when it will necessitate an immediate repair, or it would be better to wait till shade, or days end to repair in comfort.
Needless to say flats take time to fix, and on a long day that gets a bit hairy. I got off the road about a half hour before sunset and a couple more would have had me on the roadside in the dark. (eek!)
The 60 mile uphill was daunting. The pedal assist helps, but battery management on a long day means using minimal power and I still wondered whether I would be pedaling the final miles with no help. While the grapg gives a decent indication, there are still uphills which a closer look would reveal.
So between the climb, the debris dodging, and the heat, it was quite a tense day.
Leaving Santa Rosa, I was stoked to see a Sheriff Car in front of the court,
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs107.snc1/4792_119706552952_663957952_2857702_6245080_n.jpg
The deputy inside was great. A real smile and didn’t mind giving me some time even though he was a bit busy. He was not aware of the reasons for my trip so the conversation was a bit funny. When I said I was motivated because the DHS reports (he hadn’t seen) he said, “wait, you support terrorists?” I was like, “no no no, I supported Ron Paul in the primary” He then said the classic, “Who is Ron Paul?” lulz… Anyway, by the end we were on the same page and I was pretty stoked when he said, “The Fed Gov is whacked, yes I’ll be glad to pass these along, you have a safe trip” It still makes me smile…
I got to pitch a few people leaving town, and then headed off up the hill. Stopped at the rest areas and got some fliers and Obama Deception DVDs to a few folk going to the “Rainbow Gathering” (which I have been hearing about for hundreds of miles) None of the folk I met who are going liked Obama and I think we could be targeting that crowd, as well. One guy volunteered to show the flier around while there, and do some canvassing for us… Again, I think we need to take the “green” message away from the tyrants and expand this “big tent” we always talk about. It only makes sense to leave the world nicer than we found it and that should be a non-partisan effort…
Another real cool thing that happened was I came up on rental truck on the shoulder with a guy getting something from the back. Turns out he was a Marine, on the same page, did not know about our movement, and was glad to hear about us. Said he would join and get active, so I guess I recruited a Marine - haha
Another car with three guys pulled over to ask me what I was about. Had a great conversation and turns out one works at a Napa Valley TV Stataion and he said he was going to look into getting my story on-air…
You can probably imagine the feeling of relief that accompanies pulling into a town after a day like that. Even better the first business I went by had some welcoming signage
http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs107.snc1/4792_119707252952_663957952_2857716_1074285_n.jpg
The boys there were not active (hadn’t even heard of 1207), but I implored them to get more so, “we NEED them” and I could see they were a bit re-inspired by what I was doing and hope they get back in the fight. The parting words indicated they would and they were real thankful I stopped by.
Finally, here are some pics for my friends who like seeing what I see. Liberty Rider #6 asked for some scenics so here are a couple:
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs107.snc1/4792_119706577952_663957952_2857706_2037250_n.jpg
It is a vast emptiness at times… Sky was nice…
The mountains began to appear in the distance
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs107.snc1/4792_119707232952_663957952_2857714_8148963_n.jpg
and here is looking back on the ridge I went over that had storms move in as I was coming through. I felt a few drops, but by the time I took this it was storming up there…
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs107.snc1/4792_119707242952_663957952_2857715_6215073_n.jpg
Well, thats about it. a regular 60 mile day today, only 1500ft of climbing so hope it’ll be easier than yesterday. Again some headwinds in the AM but forcast to turn in my favor in the afternoon
pedal pedal

[Cowlesy]

great post!

[disorderlyvision]

nie update! sorry you had a rough ride yesterday, but it sounds like you got a lot accomplished.

[acptulsa]

I love the updates from the sheriffs' offices. Here we have people jumping into threads with 'all cops are this, all cops are that', and there we have the SPLC telling the cops 'all militias and Constitutionalists are this and that', and here's a Constitutionalist walking in and finding out the cops are too busy doing what they were elected/otherwise hired to do for their communities (in these towns, they likely know half the county by first name) to even read the propaganda that was designed to turn them into good little NAU soldiers. Makes me smile!


Liberty Rider #6 asked for some scenics so here are a couple...

Severe and more imposing than welcoming, but big, broad-shouldered, and unforgettably gorgeous. Wonderful country. Wait till you get the view that rewards you for grunting up the Sandia ridge! You will see Albuquerque. All of it!

[angelatc]

I loved seeing the sign on the fence.

[acptulsa]

Speaking of Albuquerque, Central Ave. (aka state highway 333) is old Route 66 (at least on the east side of town) and provides a nice bypass of I-40 through the city. Last time I was through I drove it out the east side from downtown; it's all four lane (and fairly wide away from the old part of the city) and once you get to the area between I-25 and the old Santa Fe tracks you get a string of affordable motels. It isn't four lane over the Sandia ridge, iirc, but being right next to the interstate it's sparsely traveled out that far. I know you're barely through Tucumcari (if that far), but though I'd mention it before you got to Gallup...

I would not recommend riding a bike on the city's expressways. There are some drivers after my own heart in that city (otherwise known as leadfoots).

[ronpaulhawaii]

A lonely road today.
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs092.snc1/5122_120109717952_663957952_2866670_2580304_n.jpg
Ranchlands, mostly, with some cool derelict structures. http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs112.snc1/5122_120109707952_663957952_2866669_6234664_n.jpg
There was one small "town" on the way, seemed like an artist enclave. Got this pic as I approached
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs092.snc1/5122_120109692952_663957952_2866667_2597928_n.jpg
which was kinda tricky as I couldn't stop to take it - haha. I had stopped and ate road food on the way, but was getting hungry for a meal when I finally started seeing "civilization" again. Stopped into the first place I came to
http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs112.snc1/5122_120109697952_663957952_2866668_4560438_n.jpg
where I had the rare experiance of a "free lunch". Real nice ladies, I had ordered a tuna melt and Ice Tea. While waiting the owner Melinda came out and asked, "who is riding for honesty" I looked up and smiled. She looked out at the bike and said, "Ron Paul - huh? I liked him, would have voted for him, even though I've never voted Republican. When I asked for the check, she came back out and said it was on the house. Thanks, Melinda. The food was delish and the hospitality priceless. I hope any other liberty lovers passing through get a chance to stop in and have a bite.
Like I said, was a lonely road so between the motel owner I had left in the AM, and the crowd at the Cafe, that was about all the canvassing I got to do. Had to fight afternoon traffic through Santa Fe but finally found Adam's house.
Quite busy here, arrived during a planning meeting for the Independence Day event, to go along with the money bomb, I hope everyone can join in and send a few bucks thisJuly4th (http://thisjuly4th.com/)
Adam took me on the tour and we ended up on his roof for sunset, where I had a couple radio interviews to do.
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs116.snc1/4849_562903439964_13303243_33637000_337208_n.jpg
Later I got this pic of Tracey and Adam
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs092.snc1/5122_120109722952_663957952_2866671_1237647_n.jpg
will try to get a video before leaving this AM... Am supposed to be getting the Kokesh slimjims todays so am looking forward to seeding the route, will use the event fliers till then...


busy busy... haha

[acptulsa]

Santa Fe? You went around Sandia to the north. Never mind, then.

Great pics. Love that country.

I believe, as the governor's office was established there by the Spanish in 1609, you're in the oldest city in the nation. Fascinating place. Enjoy!!

[ronpaulhawaii]

Santa Fe? You went around Sandia to the north. Never mind, then.

Great pics. Love that country.

I believe, as the governor's office was established there by the Spanish in 1609, you're in the oldest city in the nation. Fascinating place. Enjoy!!

Yeah, I couldn't come this close without a quick detour north to visit my favorite Marine

Taking That Day in Santa Fe
July 1st, 2009 Leave a comment (http://libertyrider.com/taking-that-day-in-santa-fe/#respond)

I had an extra day scheduled for here, was gonna skip it to get back on schedule (am a day behind), but changed my mind. I’ll make it up over the next couple few days, as I can leave a lot of weight here for the RV Ed has rented to cross AZ.

Yep, my brother from another mother, Ron Paul Rider #3, Ed Vallejo, (on left late Oct ‘07)
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v264/185/124/663957952/n663957952_1129725_5228.jpg
has rented an RV for crossing AZ. Not only that, but he, and Tom Costanza of Freedom’s Phoenix (http://www.freedomsphoenix.com/), are pedaling border to border with me. The ride is gonna get interesting - hehe

I’m stoked. AZ has been at the forefront of this r3VOLution since Ron Paul formed the exploratory committee. And guys like Ed, and Ernie Hancock, and Buck (above right) have been in the liberty fight for years… They upped the bar on my first trip, and seem to be planning the same on this one.

Having a chase vehicle changes things dramatically, an RV even more so. I can basically pedal with an empty bike and use power at will while extras charge. Ed will have an e-bike, as well. And Tom is an active cyclist. So I imagine Tom will be setting the pace while Ed and I tool along… Wooohooo!!!

Definitely stoked

Today, I’ve been working on the bike (cart had some duct tape repairs that set it a bit off, and one of the side signs barely touched the wheel, when the cart was fully loaded, making a rubbing sound that gets quite annoying), did laundry, got some more fliers printed, etc. Nice to have some time to do all this without having to pedal, as well.

So, I am here at Adam Kokesh’s and they are working hard on exploratory committee stuff. Getting ready for the Independance Day Celebration (http://kokeshforcongress.com/celebrate-american-r3volution)/Money Bomb (http://thisjuly4th.com/). Here is the core team hard at work:

Adam is on the phone
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs180.snc1/6769_120405127952_663957952_2871061_6910047_n.jpg
Jared is concentrating
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs180.snc1/6769_120405137952_663957952_2871062_3233526_n.jpg
till he realized I was taking candids - haha
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs180.snc1/6769_120405147952_663957952_2871063_6520081_n.jpg
Sean is playing with Blue
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs200.snc1/6769_120405167952_663957952_2871064_7406808_n.jpg
Tina is multitasking
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs200.snc1/6769_120405172952_663957952_2871065_3146866_n.jpg
and Adam is still on the phone, thinking…
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs144.snc1/5340_120461762952_663957952_2872045_6229350_n.jpg

It has been good seeing how dedicated and enthusiastically they are working.

Another thing that has impressed me about the Kokesh run is the level of opposition I am seeing. It seems some powerful people are nervous about him running and that is always a good sign.

That’s about it for now, we played around with a video camera today and may have something for you all tonight…

tinker tinker…

[torchbearer]

awesome.
this is what makes this forum so great!
You can't get this kind of real coverage of real events going on in the world.
God bless the interwebs!

[itshappening]

'When I asked for the check, she came back out and said it was on the house.'

that sort of thing makes me smile, it's a great gesture.

[torchbearer]

'When I asked for the check, she came back out and said it was on the house.'

that sort of thing makes me smile, it's a great gesture.

She should be leading our scouts.

[ronpaulhawaii]

Phoenix Rocks!!!

YouTube - Ride for Liberty, Ride for Honesty (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGldUWkw5pA&feature=player_embedded)

[JoshLowry]

Great video 4409!

Good luck Mike, Tom, and Ed!

[ronpaulhawaii]

New Mexico’s Rt 66
July 2nd, 2009 Goto comments (http://libertyrider.com/new-mexicos-rt-66/#comments) Leave a comment (http://libertyrider.com/new-mexicos-rt-66/#respond) Edit (http://libertyrider.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=836)

Good to get back on the bike after the day in Santa Fe. At least it was good after I found my way out of Adam’s nieghborhood… The road on google maps did not reflect reality and I ended up all twisted around in a neighborhood of highwalls, kinda like being in a maze… A city worker set me straight soon enough, and I was on my way. 65 miles, mostly downhill, mid 90s, hot winds
I had to ride the interstate a bit today, but mapped as many secondary roads as possible while in District 3, where Adam Kokesh is exploring a run for Congress. I seeded the route with Kokesh pushcards and announcements for the July 4th Event (http://kokeshforcongress.com/celebrate-american-r3volution) and Money Bomb (http://thisjuly4th.com/AdamKokeshMoneyBomb/). Got quite a few out, fell right back into stride…
Found myself back on Rt 66
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_120899742952_663957952_2878214_4070775_n.jpg
I like the small towns I’ve been going through here. Kinda reminds me of the westside of Kauai. Hot, dry, and just the right amount of funk…
Saw a welcome sight in the town of Algodones, NM. (pop 888)
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_120899762952_663957952_2878215_1660655_n.jpg
I left some calling cards in the fence, you can see bottom right of the sign.
And here is the Sandia Mountains. The second ridge looks like good climbing and was like a siren song all day…
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_120899772952_663957952_2878216_3149140_n.jpg
Waiting for Ed now, they are on the way over from AZ. We will need to work out how we are going to shuttle for Adam’s event, and getting started in AZ. Might be a bit confusing over the next few days… I’m really looking forward to it.

[Agent CSL]

Heyyyyy! :D There is a topic on it. *been looking in the wrong forum, I guess*

Good luck

[MelissaWV]

*ahem* bumped with cashola.

$50 for Kokesh, so I could do no less for RPH :)

[ronpaulhawaii]

Heyyyyy! :D There is a topic on it. *been looking in the wrong forum, I guess*

Good luck

:D - glad you found it :)


*ahem* bumped with cashola.

$50 for Kokesh, so I could do no less for RPH :)

:cool::) TY!!!!

A Day to Celebrate American Revolution
July 4th, 2009
The men who signed the Declaration of Independence pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor, to establish the greatest system of civilized, and benevolent, government ever devised in the history of man. They openly declared solidarity in resistance to overwhelming tyranny. Independent men, willfully joining together for all the right reasons; Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.
Just. Like. Us! (including the Liberty Ladies, of course http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif )
http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_121559202952_663957952_2889788_3232285_n.jpg
On this anniversary of American Independence, I salute all of our friends in our present r3VOLution. All of you who are working to peacefully get this great country back on track. Those who do little, and those who do lots, as long as you are doing something to defend the great American traditions of Freedom, Peace, and Prosperity, than you are part of a long train of patriots serving with honor.
Thank You!
I’ve been doing the patriotic thang today, Phoenix Style
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_121561172952_663957952_2889810_4239715_n.jpg
Today is Adam Kokesh’s MoneyBomb. Please donate, and help speak truth to power.
http://www.kokeshforcongress.com/sites/kokesh.netboots.net/files/images/features/Feature%20CAR%202.jpg (http://www.kokeshforcongress.com/)
GO GRASSROOTS!!!

[liberalnurse]

Is the Chip in over? Just got home from work, donated to Adam and was going to chip in for RPH and it won't let me.

[MelissaWV]

The Chip-In did end July 4, which is why it will not let you donate.

RPH: Is there a way that people can still get you funds? Perhaps a check in the mail, or a way to extend the Chip-In?

[ronpaulhawaii]

Is the Chip in over? Just got home from work, donated to Adam and was going to chip in for RPH and it won't let me.


The Chip-In did end July 4, which is why it will not let you donate.

RPH: Is there a way that people can still get you funds? Perhaps a check in the mail, or a way to extend the Chip-In?

:)

Thanks everyone. We actually made the funding goal (~$100 over) with donations that did not show up on the widget. You guys rock. RPFs drove the bulk of the funding. I will always be very grateful for that. The second biggest single source of funds came from Anbar Province in Iraq, and for that I am honored...

I have put up another widget for those who may want to help fund continuing efforts and help me recover unmentioned back-costs on this trip (or maybe just buy me a beer in SF) Again, funds left over from this event will get turned over into other liberty projects (the next ride ? ;) )

Again, Mahalo Nui Loa!!! for your support

[cnaw]

I never thought a photograph of the front of my property would end up on RPF... hehehe

[ronpaulhawaii]

I never thought a photograph of the front of my property would end up on RPF... hehehe

:D:D:D

High Winds Around Winslow (http://libertyrider.com/high-winds-around-winslow/)

July 7th, 2009 No comments (http://libertyrider.com/high-winds-around-winslow/#respond) Edit (http://libertyrider.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=847)

Ok, lets see how I can catch up. The last post predicted confusion accurately - haha.
I’ll start with pics…
AZ is escorting me across their state
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_122510052952_663957952_2912482_8230726_n.jpg
Armed Escort - haha
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_122111312952_663957952_2903631_3241986_n.jpg
Liberty Riders 11 & 12
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_122111302952_663957952_2903629_606287_n.jpg
John caught some road shots
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_122510057952_663957952_2912483_434183_n.jpg
Ed threw a chain
http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_122510062952_663957952_2912484_6383619_n.jpg
Some Liberty Ladies stopped on the highway
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_122510072952_663957952_2912485_219560_n.jpg
will try to get more tomorrow
zzzzzZZZZzzzzzz

[JoshLowry]

Very cool people and state. :)

[acptulsa]

Very cool people and state. :)

This time of year?

Kewl yes, cool no.

[Danke]

This time of year?

Kewl yes, cool no.

He lives in southern Texas, without the humidity, anything must seem cool to him. :p

[acptulsa]

He lives in southern Texas, without the humidity, anything must seem cool to him. :p

Hell, he lives in Houston. Compared to what I do in the fast lane when I'm down that way, anything is downright chilly.

Besides, between its latitude and its altitude Flagstaff is pretty comfortable this time of year.

[acptulsa]

Your posts are coming even more slowly than when you were here. Arizona must be showing you a really good time!

Good job, Arizonans! :)

[ronpaulhawaii]

Your posts are coming even more slowly than when you were here. Arizona must be showing you a really good time!

Good job, Arizonans! :)

Like pedaling across the Mohave with a herd of cats, haha

YouTube - Ed gets a Flat in Seligman AZ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2eF20tZDpnY)

and getting visited by sages

YouTube - VID00001 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jz5OJBvRecI)

in

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_123390897952_663957952_2927098_6712231_n.jpg

:D

busy busy...

[heavenlyboy34]

I hope I get lucky enough to see you in Maricopa county, RPH! :)

[ronpaulhawaii]

I hope I get lucky enough to see you in Maricopa county, RPH! :)

Not this time ...

Too many images to post

http://libertyrider.com/going-with-the-flowing-layers/

pedal pedal

:)

[nayjevin]

http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_120899762952_663957952_2878215_1660655_n.jpg
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_120899772952_663957952_2878216_3149140_n.jpg


!!

[Cowlesy]

Everyone -- Visit the following site:

http://libertyrider.com/going-with-the-flowing-layers/

To see the commentary on his most recent leg.

Awesome blog post Michael!

[disorderlyvision]

I need my Liberty Rider fix. Haven't had an update for a few days.:(

[scandinaviany3]

totally awesome and amazing you rock!

[Cowlesy]

//

[ronpaulhawaii]

Lets see if I can catch up…

I left off crossing AZ after the Kokesh Independence Celebration. The final day was amazing.

Joan and Jeanne caught up with us as we reached Hoover Dam, and informed us that the temp was 119 deg. in the shade. That means the roadside temp was around 140.

Yep, 140 degrees. Baking hot… Kinda hard to believe, even though we were there…

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_125654947952_663957952_2970690_5993222_n.jpg

But, like most challenges in life, sensibly using mind over matter, and keeping a determined eye on the goal, allows us to do things we never imagined. Allows us to do the kinds of things we will need to win. Extraordinary things. The term extraordinary is entirely subjective. Comepletly diiferent ballgames for each individual. The point is that we all need to find our limits, and reach past. Expand your limits. Keep pushing. Press On! I’ll be content with “I did what I could” when this body is rotting. For now, I intend to win!

Pedal pedal - haha

Anyway, we made it to Hoover Dam

http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_125654967952_663957952_2970691_4880499_n.jpg
http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_125654982952_663957952_2970692_1197101_n.jpg
Where we were joined by Jeanne and Joan (who had recorded the temp- still waiting to see the pic ) I was concentrating on mapping the (added) next section, so missed the camera call…
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_125717657952_663957952_2972418_8152093_n.jpg
Then we pedaled across from AZ
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_125717692952_663957952_2972421_6073712_n.jpg
to NV
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_125717697952_663957952_2972422_2036504_n.jpg
We stopped halfway across the dam for the AZ boys to savor their border to border success
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_125660022952_663957952_2970712_7323783_n.jpg
and pitched a few passerby including these guys
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_125663517952_663957952_2970794_7424363_n.jpg
pedaled up a steep friggin hill out of the canyon and came on the Welcome to Nevada sign
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_125660037952_663957952_2970713_604249_n.jpg
This is where Ed got off his bike, but Tom decided to accompany me to Vegas. We had a nasty long hill to climb after this shot, but from Boulder City to Henderson was a downhill breeze. Here is Tom after his accomplisment. The Kingman to Vegas run was close to 100 miles in baking heat. He has every reason to feel like he looks in this picture
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_125660062952_663957952_2970714_5733198_n.jpg
We got a motel in Henderson and I went through the RV gathering my scattered belongings, (thinking, “how in the heck do I fit all this in that cart?” - haha) said uor goodbyes.

I’ll make a new post the continuing saga, but want to, again, thank from the top, bottom, and sides of my heart. The AZ r3VOLution team for the hospitailty and support. The armed escort across your state was classic. Mahalo Nui Loa

[JoshLowry]

You guys rock! Cool bridge pics.

I got my Sheriff Mack book in the mail today. I'll deliver it to when I get done reading. :)

[acptulsa]

Didn't honestly occur to me to arrange an armed escort for you. But then, what happened to you in western Oklahoma at the rest area has never happened to me here, either...

Two states to go! Building up some anticipation, or sorry to see the end in sight?


You guys rock! Cool bridge pics.

That's not a damned bridge. That's a damned big dam.

[torchbearer]

Building up some anticipation, or sorry to see the end in sight?

there are no endings, only new beginnings. :D
liberty requires vigilance... the ride for liberty is never ending.

[JoshLowry]

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_125717692952_663957952_2972421_6073712_n.jpg




That's not a damned bridge. That's a damned big dam.

New bridge in background. He's got another shot of it on facebook:

http://imgur.com/YP9Rv.jpg

Humans are an impressive species.

[acptulsa]

Wow. Combining an arch and suspension. Neat.

Thanks for pointing that out. Missed it.

P.S. Have you read that a court is questioning Obama's legitimacy as Commander in Chief? If this thing goes anywhere, the Constitutionally elected sheriffs of this land could wind up being all the continuity of government we can expect for a time. You might just mention that to these sheriffs you encounter and see what they think...

[acptulsa]

So, you post that the Mojave heat made you sick and then you don't post at all? Trying to get us to worry about you?

Worked.

[ronpaulhawaii]

So, you post that the Mojave heat made you sick and then you don't post at all? Trying to get us to worry about you?

Worked.

sorry - :o

Here is yesterdays Facebook status updates:


(http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=663957952&ref=mf)Michael Maresco (http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=663957952&ref=mf) got beat up pretty good by the sun yesterday. Was too beat to blog. Will try again tonight, but have another 90+ mile day in front... pedal pedal

`````````````````````
Michael Maresco (http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=663957952&ref=mf) [/b]is glad to be back in cel range. less the ten miles left. much cooler at 6000ft -haha . around 100, may need jacket :p

````````````````````
Michael Maresco - is comfortably on his back in Tonopah, NV., after pedaling 95 miles, climbing 4300 ft, in 120 degree weather. Is now 2 days in head of schedule and out of the worst of the desert :D . Will be resting a day before the next leg of 104 miles, with no bailout towns in between... pedal pedal

Hope to catch up on the blog today...

:o

[disorderlyvision]

So, you post that the Mojave heat made you sick and then you don't post at all? Trying to get us to worry about you?

Worked.

I know, right! went from daily updates to sparse. everything is good I hope

[acptulsa]

Damn.

Had a front move through yesterday. I won't tell you the temperature today, you'll think I'm boasting. It was 103 earlier in the week, if that makes you feel better...

Good job clearing the desert, and rest well. You've more than earned it.

[ronpaulhawaii]

First an AZ vid recap, from Tom Costanza of Freedom’s Phoenix (http://www.freedomsphoenix.com/)

(http://www.freedomsphoenix.com/)
http://www.freedomsphoenix.com/Article/053163-2009-07-09-kokesh-revolution-liberty-rider-crosses-arizona.htm (http://www.freedomsphoenix.com/)

(http://www.freedomsphoenix.com/)
http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif
(and a side note, the section of I-40 where the continental divide was had two ten mile construction zones where pedaling through would have been suicidal. As disappointed as I am not getting a Continental Divide pic, I am grateful for the RV assistance past these major obstacles)


I’m sure most of you have seen the vids, and reports, from Vegas.
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs133.snc1/5691_596825979022_23102030_34938104_7043069_n.jpg


I will not go into the whole thing, just post pics. It was great seeing old friends and making new ones.


Here is Drew (left) who I first met in Tuscon on the RP ride, and to the right is Tim, who was the PA coordinator for the ride and was kind enough to share his room with me…
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs172.snc1/6450_99372637767_819162767_2028509_3617456_n.jpg


We made a classic group picture for Jeff G and all signed it
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs192.snc1/6450_99372642767_819162767_2028510_4480229_n.jpg


We went to the CATO party for a bit. Here is Ben (rt) and 4409 (lft)
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs192.snc1/6450_99368262767_819162767_2028402_3067425_n.jpg


Spent some time at the booth, here is Andrew Ward who I first met during the Lawson Campaign
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs133.snc1/5691_596825759462_23102030_34938062_8290270_n.jpg


My favorite pic, by far, is this
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs188.snc1/6294_538571117842_84101326_31813913_2447761_n.jpg


I consider Tom Woods to be a treasure of the r3VOLution. He truly is a grassroot. Even with all his intelligence, degrees, and accomplishments, I cannot detect a single “elitist” bone in his body. He has power, and as we all know, power so easily corrupts, yet this man remains as fun loving and down to earth as a child. An easy smile, a hearty laugh, a firm handshake, all things I like in a man. While there are a few in our movement who I think have let celebrity, and power, get to their heads. Dr. Woods http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif is not one of them. Long Live Tom Woods!


Speaking of celebrity, people keep calling me one and it is really strange. I’ve resisted the thought. Perhaps I just am cynical, after watching those in our movement who get that “elitist” attitude and don’t want to be associated with such. Or, perhaps I fear the temptation of power that celebrity brings, and I will fall into the same trap. Regardless, I pedaled my way into this position, am here now, and do appreciate you all very much. So I figure I’ll just keep using Tom Woods as a role model, in hopes of remaining as down to earth, and in tune with the true grassroots, as I can be. (and if any of you every notice me being “elitist” please don’t hesitate to let me know- damn, even writing that seems weird...)



pedal pedal…

[disorderlyvision]

Nice! thanks for the update.

I don't think you have to worry about "celebrity" going to your head. You were a very laid back and down to earth character when I met you in Jeff City.

Cheers!

[ronpaulhawaii]

Nice! thanks for the update.

I don't think you have to worry about "celebrity" going to your head. You were a very laid back and down to earth character when I met you in Jeff City.

Cheers!

Thanks, DV. It is a really strange thing for me. I spent most of my life quietly, anonymously, exploring the world. My dream has always been to acquire enough wisdom to write childrens books when I reach retirement age, and quietly share what I have learned... What I am doing now would never have occurred to me in a thousand years...

May we help win this sooner, rather than later (Liberty WILL win), and I can return to my island paradise. I really miss the Sunset Ukulele Patrol...

Anyway, enough of that melancholy BS... haha

Vegas Pt 2
After Freedom Fest, I was picked up by Dave Freeman, National Peace Officer Liaison for Oath-Keepers, and brought to his house for two days to get ready for some dangerous ground; the Nevada desert on the edge of Death Valley... eek
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_126313167952_663957952_2982811_4435630_n.jpg

But I shouldn't get ahead of myself...

We had a productive time in Vegas. Dave is a 30+year vet of the LV Metro Police (Sgt - Motorcycle Division) and he knows quite a few folk. So he got me in to see the Clark County Constable, Bobby G
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_125663497952_663957952_2970790_2964441_n.jpg

Bobby deserves special mention. The constables office is an electoral one, and perhaps more ancient that the sheriff. (Some reports say the constable is the only one who can arrest a sheriff, others say the coroner is - I imagine different jurisdictions handle these things differently...) They serve papers. When he took over it was running a deficit and the officers had no uniforms, vehicles, or firearms. Now, the office has a large surplus and runs consistently in the black. The officers are armed, uniformed, have vehicles, and they are about to move to a bigger office - at no cost to the taxpayer.

Hmmm... I wonder where the money was going before Bobby G... (Vegas, baby)

As usual, a little confused on why I was there, at first, but thanked me for the materials I dropped off, and gave me some great swag, including an "official" shot glass, and another star for the ride... Thanks Bobby

Next we went to the Sheriff Office, where we found out the Sheriff had to cancel, but we met with Asst. Sheriff Ray Flynn
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_125663502952_663957952_2970791_4677861_n.jpg

He knew right what I was talking about when I got into the part about the DHS reports and even asked if I knew about the "Sovereign Nation" thing the Feds sent out a memo on. I said, "do you mean Sovereign Citizens." He said, "yes, that's it" I said I know little of the nuts and bolts, but that it has something to do with the corporatization of the nation and birth certificates. He said, "yeah, they don't accept any government paperwork as valid." I said that I imagine there is some merit to their concerns and I believe that the corporatization of America is a large part of the problems we face. As the card I gave him states, "Face the Facts - Gov't INC. is Fascism" I hope he reflects on that and decides to look further into the other side of the story.

He was glad to get the Sheriff Mack book. The others he was just going to pass on to the sheriff, but he knew the Sheriff already had a copy so figured he'd get to read this one. I encouraged him to pass it around. All in all a good visit. He was a noticeably intelligent man, took notes, and promised to relay our conversation to his boss.

Then he gave me some more swag :) A Patch, a Poker Chip, and... another star (so far, it's a four star ride - haha)
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_125663512952_663957952_2970793_7068065_n.jpg
Thanks, Ray...

Back at the ranch, Dave had decided that the desert was quite dangerous to travel alone, so he told his lovely wife Eileen that he'd be going away for a few days to accompany me across his state. A godsend...

But before we left, he did one other kindness that made my month. I haven't been talking much of pain/etc. While most of it has been the normal aches of a working body, one thing was pretty bad. My sciatic started acting up in MO, and if you've had sciatic problems before, you know what that can be like. A dull ache and shooting pains. Finding a comfortable position for sitting was tough, and standing near impossible. Walking wasn't bad, and I didn't feel it at all on the bike, but I was kinda miserable for weeks...

Well, I mentioned my lament to Dave and, lo and behold, the man who knows everyone, knew a former officer who had become a Chiropractor. He called him up and told him my story. The Doc comp'ed me two visits, and the pain was gone a day later. THANK YOU!!! Dr. McKay!!!
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_127069907952_663957952_2993769_6849621_n.jpg

Interestingly, while he was testing he did a strength test on my legs. The affected Ham and Glute (lft) were not firing on all cylinders (much weaker), because the nerve carrying the brain signals was pinched. After fixing it I have noticed the difference on the bike. Muscles on my left side had over - compensated and now my right side had to deal with the extra load... haha.

Needless to say I am a much happier man... Dave really is a godsend...

The last thing I did in Vegas was a send off dinner with the Oath-Keepers
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_126313127952_663957952_2982807_285975_n.jpg

and put a new sticker on the bike, (I think it fits perfectly)
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_127069902952_663957952_2993768_5525791_n.jpg

Next post, the desert...

pedal pedal


:)

[torchbearer]

this is a great read.
maybe save them all and make a journal collection.

[Anti Federalist]

Mike, you are a treasure.

Ride on brother.

[disorderlyvision]

this is a great read.
maybe save them all and make a journal collection.

That is what I have been thinking. use he pics and stories to write a book, and he expressed interest in writing childrens books. I think he would have some good material. I would definately purchase a book

[Aratus]

RPH!!! right on!! ride on!
the goal is sooooo close!

[ClayTrainor]

Michael is the single greatest patriot in this entire movement!

Ride on brother! :cool:

[UtahApocalypse]

Micheal, you are the man! When you finish this ride take some time, relax, stay inside, write a book, add your pictures, sale it. I will buy a case :)

[ronpaulhawaii]

I am what you all help me to be...

The Nevada Desert Pt 1
July 19th, 2009

A perilous place, especially in summer. Relentless sun and baking wind. Craggy and blackened ridges, stark, tortured. One can almost imagine Frodo and Sam, lost. Hills, once verdant seamounts, now crumbling into featureless dunes. Sandy flats, where the heat soars and the vast emptiness stretches on. Awfully awesome, I’m very glad the worst is behind me.

Two days of skirting Death Valley, (a well named place.) I covered over 180 miles in those two days, in temperatures topping 150 degrees.

That’s kinda warm… no haha.

The first day from North Vegas to Beatty was absolutely brutal. Headwinds and narrow shoulders, with a hellish rumble strip.I rode on the road as much as I could, but that can get quite tiresome as I must always be aware of what is in front, and behind, contantly craning my neck for a quick look and snapping back to see I’ve drifted into the rumble strip. Or the traffic coming both ways would see me have to cross the divets to a narrow strip where one wheel of my cart would ride the edge of the desert and the other would chatter through them. Or the final few miles where even narrower sections saw me riding the bike itself through the nightmare. In the bright sun. Being rattled to pieces. And baked…

I can easily see how quickly madness and death could trap a person out there. I would look with longing at some shade on a distant ridge… I saw a little patch of shade from a small sign, barely enough to curl up in, and thought, maybe I should take a rest… NOT!. Get the heck off the road and out of the heat, ASAP… As careful as we were, it was still not the safest thing in the world to be doing…

Here is how I dealt with the heat. Long sleeve white shirt that Mike Mikkelsen from KC helped me get at a GoodWill in MO. White Hat that Dave had bought me, with a thin towel under that I would soak occasionally.

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_127055222952_663957952_2993676_5148849_n.jpg

A Mister/Fan in my handlebar bag that I could lean forward and get a blast from.
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_127580102952_663957952_3003157_4896280_n.jpg

And lots, and lots, of water. It was amazing feeling the cooling effect of the longsleeve shirt, the moist towel on the head was critical, and the mister heavenly.

One thing about being out in the desert, people are curious and know that I’m serious about my mission. Had a few people stop to give me water and ask about the ride. Can’t find the pic for that at the moment, and have to get on the road. I’ll break this post up into parts so I can keep them coming. The long days make it a bit harder to get the posts out.

Here is the bike, a speck in the empty vastness
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_127574877952_663957952_3003081_3340946_n.jpg

pedal pedal

[AdamT]

Glad to see you are safe in the desert. It sounds absolutely brutal.

[acptulsa]

That fan, a squirt bottle full of water and that insanely dry air could combine to provide you with some nice evaporative cooling, otherwise known as primitive air conditioning.

Carson City is going to look very, very good to you.

[Cowlesy]

That looks like way, way too much fun, admit it --- waiting for the Mad Max squad to come riding up on your 3 o'clock straight out of the desert haha

[acptulsa]

That looks like way, way too much fun, admit it --- waiting for the Mad Max squad to come riding up on your 3 o'clock straight out of the desert haha

Um, it reads better than it lives...

[Cowlesy]

Um, it reads better than it lives...

I was being sarcastic :)

[acptulsa]

I was being sarcastic :)

I know. I just like that 'reads better than it lives' line. Thanks for the chance to use it again.

[Cowlesy]

I know. I just like that 'reads better than it lives' line. Thanks for the chance to use it again.

Like Skoal, I am always here in a pinch

[ronpaulhawaii]

That looks like way, way too much fun, admit it --- waiting for the Mad Max squad to come riding up on your 3 o'clock straight out of the desert haha

No Mad Max, but Manuel... hmmmm...

The Nevada Desert Pt2
July 20th, 2009
(http://libertyrider.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=892)
What can I say about the heat? It was intimidating, oppressive, and perhaps un-bearable in other circumstances, but these are the circumstances I faced and in order to succeed, must be born. KInda like the rising police state which inspired this ride. In the beginning the sheriff offices were intimidating, but after a while became less so. Same as the heat. It kinda spooked me when I saw the thermometer top 130 (shade). That meant I was pedaling in about 150 degrees… O.M.G.

But what could I do? Giving up while I can still walk is not an option. Yes, it would have been easy to say to Dave, ‘This is too dangerous and just too much, lets load up the bike and drive to the next town.” But the thought never entered my brain. It wasn’t the challenge, it wasn’t pride, I don’t think it was stupidity, it was simply what I set out to do, and shirking due to fear or discomfort is not the way to win a r3VOLution. To win we must push ourselves past where we thought our limits might be (and by doing so most find that their limits are not so easily found, and the strength of voice such activism empowers is well worth the discomfort)

150 degrees…

I won’t ever do that again, if I can help it. And if I do, I’ll be even better prepared.

More pics…
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_126313137952_663957952_2982808_609869_n.jpg
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_126943672952_663957952_2991538_7395167_n.jpg
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_127977017952_663957952_3011481_5694633_n.jpg
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_127580087952_663957952_3003154_2432001_n.jpg
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_127574877952_663957952_3003081_3340946_n.jpg
A vast emptiness…
But not completely empty. There are ghost-towns
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_127574892952_663957952_3003082_7293248_n.jpg
and burros
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_127580092952_663957952_3003155_3383927_n.jpg
and very expensive places to stay
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_127574907952_663957952_3003085_4801731_n.jpg
The curiousity, and thought of AC, kept tempting me to stop in, (but I pedaled past…)
There are also, other wanderers
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_127069887952_663957952_2993767_7670287_n.jpg
I pedaled up on Dave and this gentleman during the hottest part of the day. This pic was after Dave gave him the hat, white shirt, sunglasses, and water. He was dressed in heavy Carhart type gear (including an insulated vest), was pedaling a bike from Twin Falls, ID. to his camp in… Death Valley. Amazing… When Dave found him he was walking his bike due to the rumblestrips and seemed on his last legs. Dave, being the kind and helpful person he is, set him up for the next 30 miles to Beatty After we parted Dave mentioned to me his mother telling him, “be careful how you treat people, you may be entertaining an angel” Then I pedaled on.
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_127976992952_663957952_3011478_5215365_n.jpg
to be continued…
pedal pedal

[acptulsa]

Isn't it amazing how even the ugliest spots can be so beautiful?

Thank you, Dave, for all the support! Take care of him.

[Cowlesy]

Great post! Stay hydrated!

[mrchubbs]

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_127976992952_663957952_3011478_5215365_n.jpg


Great pic for the cover of your potential forthcoming book!

[AdamT]

Great pic for the cover of your potential forthcoming book!

Indeed!

[ronpaulhawaii]

I’m glad I waited till I was out of the desert before finishing reflecting on it. While researching routes I ran across an account where an Aussie was going W>E and saw a cyclist coming the other way who met his greeting with a blank stare… While Dave kept me from being reduced to such a state, days in that bleak, forbidding heat can easily color ones observations unnecessarily negative.

I remain in awe of the early pioneers; explorers, mountain men, 49′ers. I just can’t imagine heading into such desolation with no roads, etc.. The great unknown… I am fascinated by the remains of trails and railbeds that follow the modern strip of asphalt that led me, imagining the type of folk who have passed this way through history.

The Beatty to Tonapah run was long, but (for the most part) cooler than the day before. There were two valleys that got very hot, but was climbing into cooler temps (120 or so on the road side) the whole day.

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_126991542952_663957952_2992269_3994408_n.jpg
I got to the top of this summit after 60 miles or so. And looked down on another hot valley with another summit in the distance. But what this valley had that the other had not, was the really cool old town of Goldfield, NV.An old mining town that, at it’s height, was the most populated place in NV. It has since shrank, and the ruins are everywhere, but it is not a ghost town by any means and had some great visuals.

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_126991577952_663957952_2992272_4047454_n.jpg

If I was on a pleasure cruise I would have stayed and (with a better still cam) would have taken lots more photos. Still wondering what this thing is/was…
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_126991567952_663957952_2992271_5550533_n.jpg

We found this place:
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_126991557952_663957952_2992270_5938364_n.jpg

and absolutely had to stop in
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_127055177952_663957952_2993672_7925470_n.jpg

bring them some literature and have a frosty cold beverage
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_127055187952_663957952_2993673_6328539_n.jpg

The place had been open since 1905 and the original owner was killed in a gunfight. Jack Dempsey and Virgil Earp had stayed there, and we would have too, had the internet been up (or even if I had cel service). But alas, no connection at all, so after one cold one, I saddled back up for a 26 miles slog across another hot valley and up another large hill, to Tonapah, where we spent a fairly un-eventful night getting ready for the 104 mile day between towns to follow.

to be continued after I get some grub…

One more pic though. Here is Dave and I trying to figure out how the timer function works on his new camera - haha
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_127069882952_663957952_2993766_1083630_n.jpg

almost there...

(and acptulsa, about thoughts on ending... just now starting to hit, but more concentrating on finishing... I'll certainly be glad to get off the bike, for a while...)

[acptulsa]

(and acptulsa, about thoughts on ending... just now starting to hit, but more concentrating on finishing... I'll certainly be glad to get off the bike, for a while...)

Good Lord yes, I would think so. I'm a bicyclist, maybe or maybe not avid, but I do enjoy it. But I'm not tacking the Mojave today. Or tomorrow either. Much less after three thousand miles!

You're the Iron Man, Michael. I don't think mahalo covers it. Ho'ihi.

[ronpaulhawaii]

The Nevada Desert Pt 4
July 23rd, 2009 Goto comments (http://libertyrider.com/the-nevada-desert-pt-4/#comments) Leave a comment (http://libertyrider.com/the-nevada-desert-pt-4/#respond) Edit (http://libertyrider.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=900)

Tonopah to Hawthorne - 104 miles. Longest distance to date, of both trips. Started out great. 24 miles of mostly downhill cruising. Two problems with that is that, until I reach the coast, there is always another hill to climb on the far end of each downhill, and the heat in the valley flats is intense.
At the bottom are drylakes
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_127568827952_663957952_3003015_6221022_n.jpg
where I watched a mairage shift for miles and got this pic
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_127568842952_663957952_3003016_8353896_n.jpg
It was kinda mesmerizing. At times I could see the peaks behind reflected.
I saw some feral burros
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_127580092952_663957952_3003155_3383927_n.jpg
Came across a most unusual sign (with a story behind it)
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_127568812952_663957952_3003013_8323049_n.jpg
There actually is a lobster farmer in the Nevada Desert (http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2002/Feb-04-Mon-2002/news/18007583.html). And that’s kinda the beginning of the story. You gotta love this guy. From the article,
“A lifelong resident of the Mina area, Eddy raised cattle for decades. Tired of federal rules and boom-and-bust market prices for beef, the 59-year-old went searching for a new career seven years ago.
He found he could sell lobster for $14 a pound. Just as important, nobody in the federal or state government had dreamed up regulations to hinder such an endeavor.”
We had lunch at his place; at this time, the state has figured out a way to “regulate” him and his operation is temporarily shut down. He said an interesting thing about tyrants, “They may control the cities, but the country is much bigger than that, and the redneck rules the hinterlands.” And that is why I think it is so important to bring the solutions we have out there…
Anyway, if you notice in the last pic, clouds were moving in a a storm was brewing. While the clouds provided cool shade, the storm brought strong winds which made the rest ofthe day quite… interesting. I dodged this duststorm
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_127574897952_663957952_3003083_1830249_n.jpg
which went into the mountains
http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs187.snc1/6280_127574902952_663957952_3003084_803173_n.jpg
These things can be quite ominous… I pedaled through one and the wind was buffeting me around like a balloon on a rollercoaster. Everytime I saw a new squall approaching I would grit my teeth, brace myself, and pedal into the maelstorm. To say the least I was stoked to finally see Hawthorne (and Walker Lake - not a mirage) in the distance.
http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_127977077952_663957952_3011492_1355391_n.jpg
And it looks like the desert will need one more post to finish…
pedal pedal

[ronpaulhawaii]

Comment on the blog from Dave. Thought you all might like the part I bolded... haha


To: Mike “The Liberty Rider” Maresco [aka LR1]

Thanks for the opportunity to accompany you across the badlands of Nevada [my home state]. I’ve known; lived and served with [as a soldier]; patrolled with [as a deputy sheriff] pursued bad guys with [as an LVMPD motorcycle sergeant] and team-worked with about 600 years of experience [20 retired cops from all around the country working as special deputy U.S. Marshals] in-other-words a whole lot of “TOUGH GUYS” but Mike what I personally saw you accomplish in the six days and 470 miles (sixty-seven increments of seven [7] miles each) that we were together takes the CAKE! Any one of the aforementioned men I spoke of would be honored to have you as his partner. In addition to all that you’re honest as the day is long/HOT!) you’re also Fruuuuuuuuuugal [thrifty, prudent, economical, careful, penny-wise, parsimonious, tight, stingy, meager] as a Scotsman with your supporters donations [I believe you’d spend the night in a two dollar covered wagon if it had Wi-Fi!] Luckily, I found you a benefactor for our last night in Carson City (Nevada’s state capitol) at a plush motel (with Wi-Fi).

God speed and may He continue to surround you with angels (like the one I took the gun away from even though he said it was just a toy – better safe than sorry).


In Liberty and Fidelity,
Dave
Oath keeper since 1960

[Cowlesy]

//

[ronpaulhawaii]

The Nevada Desert Pt 5
July 24th, 2009 Goto comments (http://libertyrider.com/the-nevada-desert-pt-5/#comments) Leave a comment (http://libertyrider.com/the-nevada-desert-pt-5/#respond) Edit (http://libertyrider.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=904)

OK, it is time to leave the desert. Mapping my way into SF is taking a long time and cutting into my blogging time.
After the 104 mile day into Hawthorne I had a short (haha) 50 mile pedal to Yerington. It included a long climb, here is the top, with Dave smiling out the window at my comments on this last fairly steep bit
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs167.snc1/6280_127977047952_663957952_3011486_3501618_n.jpg
The best part of this day was pedaling through a Paiute Reservation and meeting/chatting with a native artist. I have traveled enough to know that when entering a different country/culture to be very respectful. As I pulled up to a trading post I saw him sitting in the shade, drawing. I simply nodded a greeting as I pulled up, he answered with a classic native accent, “I don’t know how you cyclists do it” I smiled and said, “we just keep pedaling”. As I was going into the store I asked if I could buy him a drink. He said, “no beer for me”. I said, “Wasn’t thinking beer, would you like a water, or soda or something?. He said, “I would like a small Pepsi, please”. So I brought him one. We chatted for a while about desert crossing and routing. He was happy to learn that Dave was with me, “very good, very smart. The desert can be very dangerous” I was not interested in giving him the whole spiel as I did not know how much he felt to be an “American”. So I gave him a card and a short version of my mission. He knew all about Alcatraz and its history. We chatted some more and I started to take my leave. As I was getting the bike ready a car with tourists pulled up, so I gave them the whole spiel. My new friend was obviously listening because as I got ready to go again he said, “Hoy!, come.” I went over and he said, “I would like to give you a gift” He then took off his hat and gave it to me. I can’t tell you how overwhelming this small act was to me. A hat is a valuable thing in the desert, and this one was hand decorated. He literally gave me the hat off his head. Tears welled up in my heart, (as they are now as I write this.) He looked at me with the kindest eyes and said, “I am a Christian, and I go to church, and I am also a spirit dancer, according to the old ways, I will pray for you. Have a safe journey across our lands, and beyond, any of my people who see your hat will know you have a blessing.” I don’t know if this simple description can relate how that made me feel…
So, with that, seeing as he had no hat, I offered him mine. He graciously accepted and with smiles on both parts, we parted company. Thank you, my nameless friend. I treasure your gifts…
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs170.snc1/6400_130001032952_663957952_3044410_289043_n.jpg
Pedaling on into Yerington was pretty uneventful. We stayed the night and stopped at the sheriffs leaving town the next AM. The undersheriff was very attentive and appreciatve of the visit. (Dave was funny, as we were going in, “…I speak their language” - haha - and he does http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif ) It really was neat visiting Sheriffs with Dave, certainly increased my credibilty…
The receptionist was listening in as well and got up to see the RP book, both were very interested, and thankful. A great stop. And to top it off, I got my 5th star (unsolicited) from him, so I guess the sheriffs I have met have given the ride 5 stars - A 5 star ride - hahhahhahhaha
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs190.snc1/6400_129385832952_663957952_3036832_3783461_n.jpg
With that it was off to Carson City. The wind in the afternoon was particulary brutal and I was stoked to reach town where a mysterious donor had gotton us a nice room at a place I would normally not have stayed. Dave had arranged a dinner with a local deputy he knew and we ahd a great meal and time. On the way out I said the line about “how people will wonder why we didn’t do anything, like history looks at the Germans”. That hit home, he looked at me and said, “good point”.
The next day, Dave and I had to part company. While he was hoping to stay with me till at least Sacramento, he had surprise visitors at home and had to go. I can’t say enough about this kind man. Everyone I met who knew him saw it as perfectly normal that he would go out of his way to help someone. It is just his nature. A more honorable, kind and generous man I have rarely (if ever) met. Thanks doesn’t quite do justice for what he did for me. He made a very dangerous section of the road much safer and infinitly more pleasant. God bless you, Sir. Aloha
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs190.snc1/6400_129383782952_663957952_3036810_76252_n.jpg
Then, with a full load, I pedaled into the mountains…
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs190.snc1/6400_129383787952_663957952_3036811_3391884_n.jpg
onward…

[acptulsa]

Thank you, Dave, for seeing that man through that damned desert!

126 miles to Sacramento? Looks to me you'll be done by Monday! Epic.

Great tale about the Paiute gentleman! He sure did a nice job on that hat. That one's a keeper.

Well, summer has been a pain in your ass, but at least the road over the Sierras won't be closed with snow! Beautiful country, those Sierras. Be sure to enjoy that view!

[ronpaulhawaii]

The Sierras
July 24th, 2009
(http://libertyrider.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=910)

Not much to say about this. I absolutely love mountains, always have. Grew up close to the Catskills and was a serious rock-climber till I moved to Hawaii. I did have a great visit with a Deputy in this building,
http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs190.snc1/6400_130083317952_663957952_3045612_7985771_n.jpg
When I left asking him to please pass the materials on, he said he would make it into a little gift pack and deliver it himself
I took an extra day in Tahoe, resorting and trying to catch up. Jumped in the lake, was amazing to feel the water after the desert. Leaving Tahoe I had a large climb then a looooooong downhill run. If I could have stayed on 50 it would have been glorious, but had to get off and onto navigate through Placerville to Green Valley Road (hilly, but mostly down). It was basically along the Pony Express route and that was kinda cool. Anyway, it was a 96 mile day (with a full load) to the west side of Folsom, where I sit right now.
Here are the pics
http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs190.snc1/6400_129383792952_663957952_3036812_514058_n.jpg
I came on this sign
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs190.snc1/6400_129383802952_663957952_3036813_7834180_n.jpg
which is the second one (saw one on the RP ride in Louisiana) which kinda hits my funny bone.
was stoked to reach the top
http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs170.snc1/6400_129385812952_663957952_3036828_7637259_n.jpg
where I rested in the shade of a towering pine

Then started down to the lake where some nice Asian tourists asked to take a pic with me, then asked if I wanted them to take one of me on my cam
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs190.snc1/6400_129385827952_663957952_3036831_7515973_n.jpg
I pitched a cute lady cyclist (sorry no pic) and continued on finally reaching CA, the final state
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs190.snc1/6400_129385822952_663957952_3036830_2925834_n.jpg
The climb to Echo Summit had some tight sections
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs170.snc1/6400_130001042952_663957952_3044411_8048066_n.jpg
I just kept pedaling and finally made it
http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs170.snc1/6400_130001057952_663957952_3044412_7977655_n.jpg
And from then on, (except for a climb to Pollack Pines) was all downhill.
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs170.snc1/6400_130001062952_663957952_3044413_6250718_n.jpg
I descended over 7000 feet in the course of the day (there is a massive waterfall in the above pic)
I laughed at this sign
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs190.snc1/6400_130001082952_663957952_3044414_3766118_n.jpg
One of the stores I stopped in was fun. I asked if I could leave some fliers, he said sure, when I came back in with them he was relieved when I showed him the F2F and Obama Deception vids. He said, “Great, this will go over well around here, I was hoping you weren’t going to bring in some pro-Obama garbage…” haha
Anyway, was long day so I did not take all that many pics. Today I will go through Sacramento and onto Davis (The Bike Capitol of the US). Then a 50+ mile ride to Vallejo where I will take the Western Express trans-con bike route into SF (a ferry - hahahahhha) The locals have been quite adamant that taking the cart the long way into town is both dangerous, and stupid, for a cross country cyclist. “Take the Western Express, dont risk a problem this close to your destination, tha Napa/Golden Gate run is not worth the risk”
It is always good to heed the advice of locals and must say that I don’t mind the shorter distance. So tonight, Davis. Tomorrow Vallejo, and then Alcatraz. Right on schedule

pedal pedal

[Cowlesy]

bump for the best thread in Liberty Forest

[Danke]

What day will you enter San Fran?

[acptulsa]

What day will you enter San Fran?

Tomorrow, looks like.

[ronpaulhawaii]

bump for the best thread in Liberty Forest

:) - seeing as you donated so much for this, I am REALLY glad you approve...


What day will you enter San Fran?

I will be in Vallejo tomorrow night (Sat). SF on Sunday...


Tomorrow, looks like.

I'll be just about done pedaling tomorrow. Just from the pier to a motel on Sun. Then if all goes well, I'll head out to Alcatraz, (otherwise Monday AM). Will spend one extra night in SF, unwinding... :D

[disorderlyvision]

Congrats on almost having your mission completed!!!!:D

I almost sad though, as I am going to miss all of these awesome updates from the road:(

[AdamT]

What are your plans after you finish?

[ronpaulhawaii]

What are your plans after you finish?

Heading to NM to help [/URL][URL="http://www.kokeshforcongress.com"]www.kokeshforcongress.com (http://www.kokeshforcongress.com) :) and planning the next ride :D

Getting close now
July 25th, 2009

A series of “last”s… A few days ago I entered the last state. Today I pedaled through the last capitol. Tonight I have been mapping the last legs. A friend on Ron Paul Forums (http://www.ronpaulforums.com)asked if I was sad to be ending this trip. Truth is I am sad to have had to make it. While I remain optimistic, the fact that I felt the need to make such an ardurous journey speaks volumes. The country is at a crossroads. This great experiment in self-rule is being attacked by tyrants and if we don’t stop them now, there will be hell to pay.

I know that, eventually, liberty and justice will win. It always does. Liberty is the natural state of man and, as such, empowers us with a natural moral authority that tyrants can only dream of. Their temporary successes are lies built on lies. Like blowfish they puff themselves up to scare the meek, but the sea is big, they are small, and their ruse will only work for so long. Friggin tyrants…
Truth is, I feel sorry for them. I know that they too will face judgment and imagine they will be quite surprised to learn that the universe, and history, wont look kindly on them. This will be remembered as a dark time in America, and they will be reviled, like Benedict Arnold is now.

Sad.

But, no time for mourning their lost souls, their plans MUST be defeated, sooner rather than later. Each moment we let up on the pressure is one more moment a child will live under tyranny. And that is completely unacceptable to me. There will be plenty of time to pray for their souls after liberty has been restored and the next gen has been educated.

Anyway, it’s late and I have given up on mapping the last leg. Google maps and all the software in the world is not a match for California roads. I learned that today. There are reports of new bike paths that are not on the maps and will save me 20 miles. I found one today (not on any map) that was a breeze, unfortunately, the destination (this motel) was misplaced on the map and I pedaled 5 miles past it before calling and finding out I had to go back. (aarrrrgggghhhh) So, I’ve got a rough outline and a few reports to go on. I will stop at bike shops, and ask other bikers, as I approach. It worked today. Mostly farm roads, I’m avoiding heavily traveled ones. People drive pretty crazy out here… Maybe I’m just a bit jaded cause I spent most of the day in city traffic, but it was a bitch. Had a nice bike route for quite a while, but then got sucked into making a turn that was not on my map (to stay on the bike route), big mistake, ended up circling on endless one-ways to get to the capitol, but got there eventually.
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs190.snc1/6400_130308977952_663957952_3049238_7121942_n.jpg
It took a bit longer to find the Sheriff Office, but I did,
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs190.snc1/6400_130308992952_663957952_3049239_5614743_n.jpg
The gentleman I spoke to was alright, I couldn’t tell if he was just humoring me, but, no matter, it’s a numbers game. I certainly have no illusions that my visits will be effective everywhere, immediately, but I know I have planted a fertile seed.Lately, when I give them the Constitution, I’ve been mentioning the bit about crime not changing and adding that the only people who are pushing to scrap it are tyrants who know it is in their way… I could tell he heard that…

As Coolidge said, “… perseverance and determination are omnipotent…”

pedal pedal…
http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif

[JoshLowry]

Three cheers for the Ron Paul Rider!

[ronpaulhawaii]

1st Sight of San Francisco Bay
July 26th, 2009 Goto comments (http://libertyrider.com/1st-sight-of-san-francisco-bay/#comments) Leave a comment (http://libertyrider.com/1st-sight-of-san-francisco-bay/#respond) Edit (http://libertyrider.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=917)

and I was so excited I forgot to snap a pic… - haha.
Well, I’m just about done pedaling. Less than 5 miles left to go. Hopefully will be easier to navigate than yesterday was, California roads are not easy for a stranger on a bicycle.
It started out fairly easy, mostly farm roads. I had to do a lot of stopping and checking to make sure I kept on track. The central valley, where I was, seemed pretty much a drained swamp, lots of creeks, canals, freeways, and train tracks. My main concern was getting on the wrong side of one and having to head south rather than southwest and having to find a way back. So I just took my time. I found myself on Rt 40 again, after a 2ooo mile detour
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs190.snc1/6400_130763767952_663957952_3057966_5876882_n.jpg
I had left “The Mother Road” back in Illinois. Was neat to be back on it. I stopped in a bike shop to double check my route. Their first reaction was, “Hmmm, that’s kinda tricky” But they confirmed a new bike path and gave me some pointers on transfering off the path and onto McGarey Rd. (a frontage road for the hill pass into the Bay Area.
I stopped at the Solana County Sheriff Office
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs190.snc1/6400_130763762952_663957952_3057965_3902134_n.jpg
but they were closed and I couldn’t find anyone to take the bookset, so pedaled on.
I finally found my way to McGarey Rd and found it closed and gated… (eeek). That was a bitch because re-routing was through canyon roads and miles out of the way. I pored over the g-map on my phone and finally decided to ask some Paramedics who were having lunch. To my great relief, they said to go around the fence, “bikers do it all the time, much safer…”
Of course, most bikers do not have a cart. Luckily the gate was high enough that by removing the wheels on the cart, I was able to drag it underneath
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs190.snc1/6400_130763772952_663957952_3057967_3125831_n.jpg
This road led to a “dead end” street that was purported to have a bike path at the end. I had to go up and down a hill and was relieved when the path appeared, and that is where I caught my first sight of the bay.
I need to pack up and get to the ferry, so will close with this pic I could not resist taking
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs170.snc1/6400_130308997952_663957952_3049240_2223831_n.jpg
“must be getting close” - lol
pedal pedal…

[disorderlyvision]

must be getting close

LMAO that was funny.

[AZ Libertarian]

Greetings from Arizona!

After a week of 'recovery' (mostly catching up on Wife requests and peeling skin LOL) it took me two days to upload several HUNDRED photos of the nine days on the road with Michael:

http://www.meetup.com/Ron-Paul-and-his-Campaign-for-Liberty-R3VOLUTION/photos/

I'll post links to the videos once thay are up.

I think of all the pics up, this one says it best for me - at the "Welcome to Nevada" sign after Michael and Thomas have departed for Las Vegas, and I was done:

http://www.meetup.com/Ron-Paul-and-his-Campaign-for-Liberty-R3VOLUTION/photos/#9801527

Five days across Arizona in July. Cooked my skin until it bubbled. Spent money that should have went for food for my family.

But it was worth it. All in the name of LIBERTY. For AMERICA.

For my Brother Michael.

For you.

Ed

[ronpaulhawaii]

Today is the day I will call this trip done
July 27th, 2009 [/URL][URL="http://libertyrider.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=921"]
(http://libertyrider.com/today-is-the-day-i-will-call-this-trip-done/#comments)

One more journey to make…
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs170.snc1/6400_131421822952_663957952_3071646_6920398_n.jpg
and a bit more to say… http://libertyrider.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif

[torchbearer]

are you swimming the final leg?

[disorderlyvision]

CONGRATS on completing the journey!!!!! My hats off to you good sir

[KCIndy]

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

Very well done.

[dr. hfn]

you are an invaluable asset to the Freedom Movement!

[Cowlesy]

Congratulations Michael!!!

Edit:

7/27/2009
Receipt ID 6240348e78d89eb1
Paid By: cowlesy
For: LibertyRider - Onward
Method: PayPal
Total: $100.00

Beer and a steak donation for a job well done!

[LibertyEagle]

bump for the best thread in Liberty Forest

+1

I love this thread. Great job, Michael!!!!

[CaseyJones]

WooHoo!!!

[itshappening]

Michael must have quite a sun tan :eek: congrats on finishing the trip!!

[He Who Pawns]

Congratulaions! What an amazing feat.

[Oyate]

Amazing bro.

[mrchubbs]

Congrats and THANK YOU for all you have done!


Enjoy!

[acptulsa]

Michael must have quite a sun tan :eek: congrats on finishing the trip!!

He burned several of us to a crisp trying to tag along for a while. Yes, he has a hell of a tan! But mine's much better now, too.

Freedom to fascism. I'll bet Alcatraz ensured that the memory of the Statue of Liberty never looked better.

Well done, Michael. It's important that these sheriffs understand who their friends are, even if we have funny ways of showing it from time to time--both with law enforcement and with the troops overseas. I hope we can all live up to the example of dedication you have set for us...