Today’s 51-mile ride from Burton to Salem was one of our easiest days ever. We wanted to get in early to practice for the talent show that we put on this afternoon. There was a spectacular display of entertainment put on by the group. Jeanette organized the affair which was MC’d by Brian channeling Jeff. We led off with a song by Erwin followed by a rousing game of Jeopardy hosted by Scott B., and his host of lovely assistants, Kacy, Jessica, and Katie. Karnack the magnificent featuring Scott and me followed, only to be succeeded by Andrej telling translated Slovenian jokes. I sang "Down in the River to Pray", dedicated to my friend Jim, who would have been leading a talent show at the Midsummer Music Festival this week, but is with us mostly in spirit after a serious brain aneurism. God Bless you Jim, our prayers are with you.
Justine organized a tire changing competition, won by Jennifer, who complained that she should have had a handicap since her lung capacity doesn’t allow her to blow as much hot air apparently. Then, the women handed out awards to all of the men in a surprise gesture of great kindness and appreciation. Thanks ladies!
Lucija and Erwin proved to be just a ruthless as the real thing in a game of The Weakest Link, and Caroline gave us a very instructive lesson in the functioning and development of the kidneys. I’ll never slight them again, believe me. Joe belted his way through a rendition of Rocky Raccoon, and Gray polished off the evening with a new Baritone Ukulele and a George Harrison song. What a night and what a group.
The next four days loom large as the hills of Pennsylvania begin tomorrow. Let’s hope we can bring the good thoughts and humor of today with us as our legs, lungs, and now kidneys begin the next challenge.

Our red and yellow matching coffee shirts make a second appearance.

Gray is our featured rider of the day, here shown strumming his ukulele and singing. Gray is a musician and has greatly entertained us with his music as well as with his ability to meet the locals.