Friday, February 8, 2008

Day 8

The four started today from the friendly confines of Hawkinsville. Sherry gave the team "Good Luck Nuts" or buckeye nuts to wish them well on the rest of their trip. The four also took some pictures with Chuck before they left. They were originally headed to Henderson, GA today, however they were told there was "nothing more than a 4-way intersection." After examining a map, they decided to head a little south on RT 230 to Unadilla, GA. This was about the same distance from Hawkinsville, and would give the group a chance to grab some food and put up their tent. A little after 8 am, they set out for Unadilla, but not before stopping at the local gas station to pick up some Pop Tarts. Much to their surprise, it was a mere 33 degrees to begin the travel. The foursome put on some layers, and headed out for the open road. It was an interesting morning, as they did not expect to be able to see their breath while traveling.

By 10 am, the weather had warmed, and the guys were now traveling in shorts and t-shirts. Andy predicted it to be around 50 degrees, and perfect cool running weather. They continued to travel until about 11 am, when Seth O'Dell called with another media update. He had arranged for two news stations from Macon, GA to travel down to Unadilla and pick up the story on the guys! The FOX and ABC affiliates from Macon would be the stations interviewing them in just a little while. Macon is the second largest media hub in Georgia, only behind Atlanta. This is some good press, thanks Seth!

The team strolled into Unadilla at about Noon today, and found themselves at the Rail Side Cafe just as it was starting to get pretty warm outside. As they were eating and relaxing, the 4 talked to many about their journey, including the Courtney Anderson and John Daw who were in charge of the cafe. FOX was the first to show up, and conducted a short interview with the guys. A few minutes later ABC came and completed an extensive Q & A with the team, including shooting some video footage. Ken was the first to go, and the other 3 followed. After the interview, Eric Lee from ABC handed the team $20! The news teams began to leave, and the guys hung around a little while longer to recover from the day's travel. They spoke with Courtney and John a little more about the trip, and at the conclusion of the conversation they told the guys that lunch was on them. More great Southern hospitality!

Just when you think the afternoon could not get any better, Police Chief Ernest Dennard came into the cafe, and began playing the piano. Andy said that he was jammin' out! He was a terrific player, and Ken showed his appreciation by jammin' out himself! The news crews heard the immense applause and came in to film the officer and Ken while he jammed out!
After Chief Dennard finished playing, Durkin approached him to inquire about putting up the tent. He said he would be happy to help them out in any way he could. The guys later left, and went to the Police Station. They waited a few minutes until Chief Dennard arrived. He asked if they would rather stay in a room. The team obliged, and he left to check out the scene. Ten minutes later, Chief Dennard came back telling the team he had them all set up in the Scottish Inn down the road for the night. When the team got to the Inn, they found out that the entire town had pitched in so they could stay for free! Thank you Chief Dennard and Unadilla! The four spent the rest of the night icing and downing Subway sandwiches. Ken dominated two foot-long subs all by himself!

The adventure continues to become more and more exciting with each stop the guys make. Thank you to all who have helped them along the way so far. You are greatly appreciated! Keep checking back to see how the trip unfolds! Thank you again for all of your support!

One final note! The guys wish to congratulate their very close friend Kyle "Los" Walcott on receiving a position at Second Nature Entrada in Utah! Congrats Spain!

-Rick

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