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May 2003 - The Governor of Pennsylvania, Edward Rendell, wrote, "You have exemplified extraordinary drive and an unwavering passion for the sheer joy of riding through our beautiful country. In every way, you are deserving of wide recognition for your commitment to preserving the tradition of the Long Riders and using your travels to help our youth and inspire our senior citizens."

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Gene is pictured shaking hands with Secretary Dennis C. Wolff, Secretary of Agriculture for Pennsylvania, in that State's capital, Harrisburg.

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Still in Harrisburg, Gene is pictured here with Artie Sacks, Friend of The Long Riders' Guild, who accompanied Gene to the capital of Pennsylvania.

 

26th May, Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania
"We are happy to report that Gene, Frank and George are back on the road today, Gene arrived at our house on Thursday evening and was prepared to leave out Friday morning, unfortunately George had some swelling and soreness from the pack and upon advisement from our vet was forced to take a couple days off. So we were lucky to spend some extra time with him. Gene graciously volunteered to work for his keep which we had plenty to keep him busy. It was an experience we will never forget. We wish him well on his journey and were grateful for his company. Thank you Gene and God bless you on you trip!"

Gary and Amie Wolfinger

28th May, Sweet Valley, PA
"Hello: My husband and I just met Mr. Glasscock at our friends home tonight where he and his horses were staying for the night. I must say we were so impressed by the trip he is doing. We wish him a safe and healthy trip. May God Bless him with the best trip he could have. Thank you for allowing me to give my comments."

Cindy Panco

5th June - (handwritten letter sent by mail)
"Thank you again for bringing your journey and stories of life into my home. It was an honor and privilege to open our doors to you and your horses. We admire you and what you are doing more than we can ever express. Also, just you as a person have been an absolute joy to be around. I would have done anything in the world to spend more time listening and learning from you, not to mention riding along for a little while.
I will pray for you and your horses every night. You have our phone number, please don't ever hesitate to call for any need, or just come back to visit, that would be even better. God Bless You, Mr. Gene."

Nikki Cross

June, Susquehanna, PA
"We had the pleasure of Gene's company quite a bit around our parts, those parts being northeast Pennsylvania and southern New York. The short time we were given with him was an honor that will live long in our hearts. Also, we were invited to ride along on the journey but didn't have nearly enough time to go the whole way, even though we kick ourselves every day now for not just going..... Basha, please convey to Gene that we want him to call us. We miss him and worry about him very much. His name is on our tongue almost every day. Thank you friends

Dave Laing, Nikki Cross and Keven Cowperthwait.

13th June, Uniondale PA
"My name is Lori Eshelman, from Uniondale PA, and I had the pleasure of meeting Gene and having him stay with our family for the night. He is truly an amazing person. My mom and I rode with him for a few miles the next morning when he continued on his trip. During his stay, we discussed as to which way he would be traveling. He mentioned that he would be eventually going to Dover, Delaware, and then to Maryland and Virginia. He wondered as to whether he would be able to cross over the bridge at the bay, or if he would need to go all the way around it to get to Annapolis.
My job is doing law enforcement sales, and I told Gene that I would try to check on it for him. I have made a few contacts, and am told there is a barge going across the river, but they don't think the horses would do very well. He isn't allowed to ride the bridge, but if he would like to have the horses trucked across, please email me or call, and I may be able to make arrangements for that. My phone number is in his book. (He stayed with us the first week of June.)
Please let Gene know that we think about him, and hope he is well. When you speak to him, tell him that Lori was asking about him, and ask him about a trade we made. That may remind him of who I am."

Lori Eshelman

27 November - Thanksgiving Day
"Mr. Gene, we miss you sooooo much. We are always threatening to catch up to you as soon as possible. Please come back soon. You give us something to believe in. A true, living testament, our hero forever. We love you."

Nikki Cross, Kevin Cowperthwait and Dave Laing... Susquehanna, PA

29th August 2004
"God love your heart, I just read of your adventure in the book (country). What you are doing is so wonderful... I just wished you would of been in our area. We live in a small town called Clearfield, PA. I pray every night the Lord will keep you and your furry friends safe. You have to be so tired. Please take care of yourself and may God bless you and your horses through your entire journey. Will be glad to know when you make it home and that everyone is OK."
 

Lois Knepp