Locomotive, Columbus Dan, TW
Tucson Terry, Columbus Dan, the Locomotive and I began our rest day in Sioux Falls by living large at the laundromat last night. We all had things to wash, so we gathered our quarters and our laundry and hiked a mile to the nearest laundromat. We were hoping to find a laundromat that served beer but, no such luck, so we quaffed soft drinks while washing, drying, folding, and sending photos to our respective spouses — all of whom seemed to get a kick out of thinking of us in a laundromat. To top off the evening we went to Chili’s to consume as many calories as we could to
Tucson Terry living large at the laundromat
get ready for the coming week. Keeping up the calorie count is not as easy as it may sound. We’re burning some 3,000 to 4,000 calories per day as we ride. That’s over and above the normal calories we need just to stay alive. So we need to pack in the food. I wouldn’t say we’re eating high quality food but we’re definitely eating high quantity. I’m not sure that I’ve lost any weight so far but I’ve definitely reconfigured it. The new shorts that fit me perfectly when I left Denver, would now fall off me if I didn’t cinch my belt up tightly.
Today, I’m doing more public relations activities. Since starting the ride, I’ve worked with the local chapters of the National MS Society to generate publicity and awareness.
Jerry Dahmen - KXRB - Sioux Falls
It’s a simple way for the chapters to generate free publicity and advertise their local programs. So far, I’ve done interviews with three TV stations, four radio networks, and five newspapers. This morning, I did my first in-studio radio interview — with Jerry Dahmen of KXRB, a country/western station here in Sioux Falls. They’ll divide up the interview and play it all this week in a series called I Love Life. This afternoon, the South Dakota chapter of the MS Society will also host a party at a local pub to raise awareness and get people to sign up for the South Dakota MS-150 Bike Ride on August 6 and 7. (More info at www.myMSbike.org). After a wild night at the laundromat, I think I need a nap before partying all afternoon.
Living large at the Laundromat. Sounds like a country western song.