Questions 4 America's Blog

Karl wasn’t so sure about the interview but his dog, Wally, needed to be a part of the action regardless. I think that Karl’s take on the economy from a service industry perspective is probably a good indicator of where we stand today. Let’s go America! It’s nice to be back in my home town!

Ronnie told me that he and his wife married at the age of 15. They have now been married 35 years! With every person I meet across this country the more I am amazed at the diversity and individuality of America. At the same time, I always see common themes that connect all of us. Oklahoma is one beautiful State with some pretty cool people!

Today’s drive was long but uneventful. Cold but blue skies and low wind. I was happy to reach the MO border don’t know why I guess because i remember vacationing in MO as a kid so it seems like I’m almost home (or former home) when I got here. I am 95 miles outside of St. Louis and have a 6 hour drive into Aurora.

For the past two nights I have witnessed cats lurking around the motels I am staying at. I have whistled for them but they are probably feral but I feel sorry for them as it is COLD out here. Why do we sometimes have an easier time feeling sorry for animals out in the cold than we do people who are left out in the cold? I’m guilty of it at times. I just know that it’s not a good thing.

I have to say that truckers across this country are GOOD drivers!!!! Thanks for making my drive easier guys and gals! They always move out of MY lane (oops) so I can pass and do their best to not flip me off if I pass at ridiculously high speeds (not really). Most drivers are quite alert and conscientious. I should know as I just passed the 8,000 mile mark on my journey(Legs I & II). This from a guy who doesn’t like driving. I really might have to update that perspective.

I am looking forward to spending the next two nights with dear friends. John in Aurora I met in kindergarten and went to some HS with and college as well. Karl in Chicago I met in Key West 16 years ago and its great to reconnect with these people. My lunch on Thursday with Jim will be another highlight of my IL stop.

Stay warm. Shop smart. Speak kind words.

Peace,

The Inquisitor

Lee has a very positive attitude.  He also has a PhD from the University of Chicago.  The poor fellow should have applied himself in school. This country is chock full of interesting folks who have so much to offer!  If we tapped into even a small percentage of it we would have reserves!  Once again, another upbeat attitude of gratitude!   Way to go America!  Thanks Lee!  I’ll go see a holiday show just on your recommendation.

Man stops in Valley during 11,000-mile trek through U.S.

Ceil Cohen is one hip chick!  She did not hesitate to meet with me when asked.  She is one Go GETTER!  What Ceil does not mention in her interview is that when she first went to get that job at the PR firm in KC or Wichita (don’t recall exactly) the owner told her that he hired only college graduates.  So what did she do?  She went back to college, got her degree, got that job and then a few years later opened her own PR firm and directly competed with her former employer’s firm.   THAT IS THE AMERICAN DREAM!!!!!!  Ceil as well as Dr. Lee from mid-November (Ohio) are my favorite examples of the American Dream to date.  I know there are many more out there but those stories put an instant smile on my face and make 8 hour days of driving thru snow a bit easier.  Thank you AMERICA for bolstering my spirits and keeping me smiling!!!!

Today began with an interview by Tim Vetscher of ABC News in Phoenix which was a real welcome change from me doing the interviewing.  Tim is a seasoned professional and real good guy.  Thanks Tim!

My drive from Phoenix to Albuquerque, NM was quite harrowing.  I had ok weather until about 60 miles outside Flagstaff when I encountered a heavy downpour and then sleet and then snow.  We crawled at 35 mph for about 30 mile into Flagstaff and then I hit Interstate 40 E for another 320 miles of snow, rain, and high winds!

To say that I pulled off the Hwy in Albuquerque tired is an understatement.  I have not seen the news segment yet but am told that it was cut short by a number of bizarre emergencies that occurred in the “Valley” today.  Tomorrow is NM, TX and OK so I hope to have some interviews from folks in those regions for you to view later tomorrow.

I know that the Holidays are upon us even though i watch with a somewhat distant eye but all the signs are there.  Please take the time to appreciate what this time of year is all about and enjoy those who are in your life.  It was an unexpected treat to spend a few days with my mom in Scottsdale, but it was also a big disappointment not to get to UT to see my dad.  I have a mission and goals to attain and that can make for some unfortunate circumstances.

Have a great week everyone!

Peace,

The Inquisitior

http://www.abc15.com/content/news/webxtra/story/Man-stops-in-Valley-during-11-000-mile-trek/4kjbSyMuk0KQx7jvOV3T9A.cspx

I interviewed a fascinating lady yesterday who I cannot wait for you to see!  My priorities today are to score an interview on ABC news Phoenix and then head up to the mountains where it is supposed to be snowing (Flagstaff) on my way to Albuquerque.  Stay tuned!  I have a a LOT of driving to do the next 4 days to make my WGN radio gig on Friday.  I hope for dry roads and above freezing temperatures, but I know that’s wishing for a lot!

Peace,

The Inquisitor