Just to the north of DC by several miles is Kensington, MD where we have been able to conveniently park The Kindness Bus. Every morning we ride into Washington from this town where there is plenty of space and no need to worry about having to move from parking meter to parking meter every 2 hours, a huge asset to us.
Just around the corner from our “base camp” is a Montgomery County firehouse named Station 5. I have been wanting to find the time to spend an hour or so to stop in, especially because they are in the middle of constructing a 911 memorial on their grounds, but I have been arriving back in the evening every night after dark. Today I found the time.
Riding through a very busy Montgomery County to do chores along the way, took us past Station 5 a couple of times. We were able to stop in and thank the firefighters for the job they perform. We were also able to talk with them about the Domestic Violence runs they go on as paramedics. “This happens too much, everywhere,” one of the firefighters said. We went to Station 5 to thank the firefighters for the job they do and they ended up thanking us. A very humble group, to say the least.

I first talked with Brian Namey, Communications Director for the NNEDV a little over a month ago. It was apparent at that time that he has a passion for helping those affected by Domestic Violence. Today I had the pleasure of meeting with him for an interview at his office in Washington DC. So many powerfully, insightful answers to my questions were given, helping me to better understand the seriousness and complexities of this issue. We talked about the human side of Domestic Violence as well and how the “control and power” starts subtly in a controlling relationship, but far too many times, ends tragically.
Sue Else, President of the NNEDV graciously took the time to meet with us in her office and shared her views on making our mission more impactful for those we encounter along our travels. She told me of all of the resources available at over 2,000 places of refuge to help anyone affected by domestic violence across the country.
Thank you to the entire staff at the NNEDV who came out of their offices to share their stories and well wishes for us. What an essential visit this was for me. Bogart was even made to feel welcome as he was doted upon by everyone.
The remainder of the afternoon and evening, I spent in the area around the White House and had many conversations with people who thanked me for my efforts.
The day ended with a meeting with Matt, a former prosecutor in Domestic Violence cases, his insight gave me a glimpse into the legal side of this issue. His words of encouragement of my mission, helped me realize I am on the right track.

My sincere thanks to Alexandra, Moriah, and the entire staff at NNEDV for their work, understanding and hospitality.

Arriving in Washington DC, I called the National and DC Domestic Violence Coalitions and soon I had 2 meetings arranged, one for tomorrow and one on Monday.  I guess a guy on a bike can make a difference, a guy with an enormous passion for raising awareness for Domestic Violence and Childhood Sexual Abuse that is.
My bicycle has 2 large signs attached to the rear rack. One says, “Be a Man, Don’t Raise a Hand, Stop Domestic Violence,” the other, “Stop Childhood Sexual Abuse Now!” Needless to say I get thousands of looks a day. Most responses are positive, some are indifferent, others look at me as if the person is thinking, “are you directing that at me?” I am hoping I strike a nerve in those who would ever think of committing one of these despicable acts. The last group I get feedback from are 2 or more young men in cars whose occupants at times shout out testosterone laced retorts; I for sure hope somehow I am reaching this demographic.

Oppressive heat made outdoor bicycling after the late morning hours nearly impossible today; The heat index was nearly 110 degrees. Having banked 30 bonus hours on earlier rides, I used nearly half of them today.
The last two nights we stayed with friends Joe and Claire and their two daughters, Angela and Maria. Their hospitality and with them making us feel like part of the family made our stay sensational. They provided us with every amenity and all the comforts of home, a family could offer.
It was downright dangerous for Bogart in these extreme temperatures, he will be in air- conditioning until Sunday when he goes to a loving family in Cleveland until I am reunited with him again just before Christmas. I just can’t take a chance with him being hurt by the heat.

Making our way to Baltimore’s inner harbor through 30 miles of trails was what the doctor ordered on this very hot day where temperatures reached nearly 100 degrees. Trails usually mean there are trees which translates into shade, nature’s air conditioning.
Light Street Cycles was a bicycle shop along our travels. Owner, Penny Troutner who used to work the phone bank for a local Domestic Violence call center, saw why we are riding cross country and gave us the family discount on our bike upgrades and repairs. Marshall and Elliott, her two sons did the work on 2 of our 3 bikes.  This evening my bike disappeared to CycleSport in Ellicott City, another bike shop. Maria, one of the daughters of the family we stayed with the past two days, works there, and her boss told her when we are in town, “to help them with everything they need.”
Everywhere we travel, people want to help us to spread the word about ending Domestic Violence and Childhood Sexual Abuse.

One of my favorite songs, “Gravity,” by John Mayer, kept running through my mind as I was riding today and encountering some gentle hills north of Baltimore. The songs begins with the lyrics, “Gravity is working against me. And gravity wants to bring me down.”
I thought in my mind how these small hills are going to get bigger as we head west out of Washington DC toward the Appalachians. Bigger hills need to be planned for and one needs to be conditioned to successfully overcome the challenges ahead.
Today’s ride took me past two billboards, reminding me of one of the reasons I am on this twice cross country mission. If you are in an abusive relationship, leave today!