13th February - Hagerstown, IN
"Where are you ending your amazing journey????? By the look of your map I was guessing Indiana. I live in Indiana and would like to help somehow...I envy you. Thanks for your time and keep safe."

Carol Stephenson

11th October 2005
"I met Gene this past weekend (Oct 8 & 9, 2005). He was riding thru my small town of Rockville, Indiana. I was never as impressed with anyone the I have ever met before. I wish him well on his journey and wish that I had known about his ride prior to this time, I would have loved to have assisted him along the way. BRAVO GENE! Thank you for letting me get to know you a little while."

Miriam Pierce

18th October 2005
"On Monday, October 11, we received a call to host Gene at Hope's Way on the 'Wounded R Ranch' in Bainbridge, Indiana. We were happy to oblige and were humbled to extend our hospitality to such an inspiring man. Volunteers at our organization rallied to groom the four historical mounts while we listened to Gene's adventures and his inspirational adages. We also were fortunate to celebrate Gene's 71st birthday on October 12th. We reluctantly sent Gene on his way with the hopes that we can meet up and finish his ride into Columbus, Ohio. May God and Jesus continue with Gene on his journey. What a blessing we received."

Rick and Elizabeth Shafer

18th October 2005
"Governor Mitch Daniels has made Gene an Honorary Hoosier with a certificate from The State of Indiana Office of The Governor. Dave Huntsinger an aide in the Governor's office presented the certificate to Gene. Gene was escorted by two of our finest Indianapolis Mounted Police Patrol, Ed and Jim downtown to the State Capitol building for the presentation. It was a tearful goodbye by Larry, Tina and Taylor Williams, who hosted Gene for two nights at the Hendricks County Fairgrounds. Jessica Carson was his last host before his ride into the Capitol. The folks at Hope's Way and the Indiana Horse Council were instrumental in providing for Gene and his companions needs upon their arrival in Indiana. It was an emotional farewell downtown as we saw him off the next leg of his journey to Lansing, Michigan. All of the volunteers and host families developed an immediate and close relationship with Gene. It was a great honor to be a part of this endeavor, not only for the journey itself, but also for the children of Paraguay. Dick Wolfsie, of the Channel 8 WISH TV, did a final interview with Gene as he left our city. Gene, take care, good luck and God bless and we will see you in Columbus, Ohio on your last stop in the 20,000- mile journey. "

Jessica Carson

20th October 2005
"I met Gene this morning 10/19, My friend Dave Nelson brought him to our store (Tractor Supply Co. after boarding him and the boys for the night), about a 1/2 hr. before opening. I've never seen a person in such great spirits! He was so excited about getting his horse feed before hours and my manager gave him an employees discount as well. I wished him well and a safe trip!!! Good Luck and God bless!!!"

Mark McBride

21st October 2005
"I am one of the lucky people who got to meet you when you were passing threw Elwood in, On Oct. 17th.05 Being a lover of horse and the great outdoors, Its was a very special thing for me to get to meet you, Even for the short time we were able to talk. Sir it was a pleasure. Thank you."

Tom Basey