I realize that this is probably not an international issue or
even one that is of national interest. It is probably only of local interest,
but I consider you my extended family, having been a small
part of this group since 1999. I realize that we are a mixed
group of people, of varied interests, but we all have one
interest in common, touring. I have to share with you
a personal story... My son and I have taken three extended trips
on at least one recumbent bike for the last three years, this year
we were planing our forth, both of us on recumbent bikes,
when a classmate of my son was brutally
murdered in Iraq. His name was Nick Berg.
Reports of his death affected my family, my son and his classmates
greatly. Brian has decided to turn this ride which was to be the first
leg of our transcontinental ride, at two week takes, into a memorial
ride for Nick. As a father, I am proud of my son's unselfishness, and
his social conscience. As a friend i am glad to support him as a travel
companion, confidant, bike mechanic, and father. He has a web site
about this memorial ride at:
http://www.ridefornick.org
Please, lets just stop the hatred, Remember the person and not his
death.
Regards, Daniel Payne
West Chester, Chester County, Pa, USA