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2 Weeks left!

The rental truck had been changed to say “Loving Up” instead of “Moving Up”Loving up

I am so excited that P.E.A.C.E SCOOTER starts two weeks from today. The 11,000 mile, 12 week ride last year was made within just 40 days of its conception. That brief time was all I had to handle almost every planning aspect. Then before I knew it, the scooter was loaded up and I was headed down the Blue Ridge Parkway.

I stopped in Crawford, TX because there was no one left to keep the dog, no more money, no more nice weather. Since my arrival back home, I’ve scrutinized the lessons learned. I decided I needed to reach more people and that I wanted to help more people. This has been easier with more advance notice!

It’s been fantastic to already hear from so many people about places to stay. Within this time frame last year, the website had JUST gone up. That gives you an idea of my determination and enthusiasm to promote inner peace, community and environment. I am genuinely driven to help in any way I can to make this world better. And yes, I think we need to talk about Peace until it is no longer a controversial word. Until obtaining it is just as natural as keeping good health!

In the remaining two weeks, I’m contacting people around the country, finalizing my route, printing the maps out, locating campgrounds, trying to score a free helmet, collecting documentary equipment, and looking for ways I can help in communities.

And I just completed a big move. Since my lease was up in July, when I would be traveling, I went ahead and moved.

I had to rent a mongo truck and suck up the terrible gas mileage. It was about 12 mpg-a far cry from the 90 mpg I’m used to. Now all my stuff is moved and my pup is settling in to the place he will call home while I am riding 9,000 miles. Paying so much at the pump definitely has me worried about expenses. Although, there just isn’t another time to complete this epic 20,000 mile ride. I feel like now is the time to travel and help out, to talk about these “sensitive” subjects and especially to promote alternative transportation. At least there are some things in place to help generate funds. In addition to raffles, and tshirts, I’ve been hired to do some work finding and posting blogs on a very cool website, www.thesecondroad.org. I’m really honored to work with this crew. I might only have 5 hours a week to help when traveling, but that can cover gas for the week…..

That’s the update for now, thanks for your support. PEACE!

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Raffle to support P.E.A.C.E

Prizes have been donated for raffle, all summer long, to help reach the goal…$1 per 1 mile. More than half the proceeds go towards four nonprofits.
Please, click on the pictures below to visit the websites of these kind people who donated. The Garmin Legend E-Trex GPS is from my collection, a $160 value. Directions for raffle entry are at the bottom. Thanks for supporting P.E.A.C.E and the fundraising mission.

Now, without furthur ado, let me show you the prizes behind Doors #1,#2 and#3

Genuine. 3 items. Shop Jacket, Ciao Tshirt, and 2 patches

Shop jacket

Ciao

patch 2Patch 1

 

From VaVaVroom, “One of those girls” beautiful, soft, longsleeve blue hoody shirt.
One of those Girls

 

From Ben Heine, an amazing artist hailing from Brussels, Belgium, the most lovely piece of art:
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From Dave Mangano, of SCTRCST podcast fame, an official, quality tshirt from a quality show:
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Incredible Corazzo winter gloves, SIZE SMALL, no big hands need apply.

Corazzo gloves

From the lovely and talented Crystal Waters, a scooter seat cover. You win and you get to choose from a couple of different fabrics and based on your scooter. Crystal will take care of ya! Visit her site to get an idea of your awesome options: http://www.scooterseatcovers.com/

headline.jpg

 

The golden prize, A Garmin E-Trex Legend with 8mb memory

Etrex

This raffle will run for almost three weeks, winners announced on May 1. From then on out, a new raffle will start every Monday, with names drawn on Sunday. Those raffles will probably be $5. Many thanks to all who donated, but especially Scooterworks, who has lovingly agreed to provide the audience with fine goods for the next 3 months! WOO HOO!

I truly want us to help make the world better. More than half the money raised from this trip is donated to four nonprofit organizations that also work hard to do this.

  • Go to Donate/Gratitude: https://peacescooter.com/donate/
  • Click on the “Chip In” button that takes you to my Paypal account
  • The minimum donation for a raffle ticket is just $10
  • All Scooterworks prizes are specific to your size preference after winning.
  • For the guy/gal specific items, if you have a preference, note it on the donation form in paypal.
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YEE HAW

I am totally floored to hear the news: CLAW raised $807 dollars for donation to P.E.A.C.E SCOOTER!

TO THE BROTHERS AND SISTERS INVOLVED WITH CLAW, Cowgrrl Sady-istic aka P.E.A.C.E Scooter grrl is tippin her hat to ya. You gave me a proper send off. April 8th matchThank you, most every single one of you, for taking a moment to wish me godspeed and goodluck. My friend Dave began to change his mind about America after last night’s events. Dave pleasantly surprised me with a visit from Toronto, Canada. We might not have a chance to see one another for quite some time and so I’ve enjoyed the distraction.

Back to Claw-how did we give birth to such zaniness?

A big thanks to all the fans who completely packed the Blue Moon Diner-it was a sell out event. Thank god for genius and closed circuit TV in the bar area, allowing enthusiastic supporters a little bit of elbow room with their view. Now if you braved the ringside area, you were in for a super charged night. All wrassler managers put in for some showboating . Special thanks to Mojo who kindly came from nowhere to help this Cowgrrl with her vest and getting her drink in between bouts.

Ok, I can’t hold it back any longer. My CLAW ladies and fine Cville residents raised a GRAND TOTAL OF $807 DOLLARS TO DONATE TOWARDS P.E.A.C.E SCOOTER! Blue Moon kindly helped by donating 10% of sales to the bag o’ funds. A shout out to them and the servers who put up with us once a month. Amy found a sponsor who donated $25 and a kind guy stuck outside for the event donated $5. I don’t think I can offer enough thanks, but I did take Anthony Child’s pictures and put them into a video that’s kinda fun-JUST SO YOU KNOW THAT I THINK YOU ARE ALL SUPERBAD AND I LOVE YOU! Keep up the arms and bets ladies and keep spreading the charity!

*Note* The trophy at the end of the video is one I made, from those Scooterworks postcards. House rules is that the charity recipient fashions the trophy. I chose a classy cigar box, glued some maps on the inside and attached the scooter model to the top. Inside were also gift certificates donated by La Taza and the Tea Bazaar.

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Countdown is on

My friends, a package containing 2,000 postcards arrived on Friday. 2,000 PostcardsThat just so happened to start the clock ticking-the official 4 week countdown has now started. When they arrived I had a total rush of excitement. Wow, this is really going to happen in just one month. I remember how astounded I was last year-giddy and delirious from just 40 days of planning.

While I don’t feel like there is a moment to spare, I also don’t feel panicked. Fortunately, worked ended for me on Monday. I have now joined the ranks of broke Peace crusaders.

Things are coming together in quite an amazing way. Definitely want to thank everyone who is dropping by to check out the page. Wondering how people are hearing about it? Sadly, a few people have written to tell me I’m missing their town/state. I know, I know. The U.S. map is a bit unwieldy to create a peace sign and visit every state. My apologies to those whom I won’t meet, but stay tuned through the website and let your friends/family know about it.

Of course this year I’ve enjoyed having months to plan ahead. While many sponsorship requests have gone unanswered, some very fine people have jumped on board to donate needed supplies. Today my community Whole Foods sent me a letter confirming their willingness (and joy) to prepare me a care package. This means that I can save expenses on food, but most importantly, I can keep eating healthy. Last year my nutrition suffered a little, so their gift is a great comfort. They have generously offered a $100 gift card, coffee, soap, lotion, trail mix, multi-vitamins, and Liquid Braggs. It’s exciting news!

I might as well go ahead and announce that raffles will start next week. One of my main sponsors, Scooterworks, has agreed to provide prizes once a week, more than half the money raised will be donated. Don’t forget that P.E.A.C.E Scooter 08 has a goal to raise $1 per 1 mile driven. New raffles will go up weekly, starting Monday. Winners will be drawn every Sunday, the ENTIRE 12 weeks that I am riding! Now the raffle that starts next week will run for 2 weeks and there is a variety of prizes in the mix. A sneak peek you ask? Sure.

A garmin GPS, but that’s the only surprise I will unveil as of yet. Trust me, there are some sweet prizes that have been kindly donated from a few people-even from a swell guy all the way over in Brussels.

Big thanks to those offering places to stay and to all the lovely town folk here in Cville trying to contact their friends around the country. The past week I’ve stopped often to reflect on just how great my hometown is. Many people have come forward with encouragement and big hugs that just set me blushing.
And they’ve come forward with press and donations. Big donations. To be continued…..

Polarized

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CLAW 3 Tonight, 8pm, Blue Moon Diner

CLAW

 

Don’t miss CLAW 3, Return of the CLAWs, this Tuesday, April 8th, from 8-10 p.m. If for some reason (other than you don’t live in Cville) you haven’t heard of CLAW, then click here. I’m very excited to cast aside my pacifist tendencies and well, flex my mongo muscles for some entertaining arm wrasslin’. Tonight is a special night, I am both a wrassler and a charity case. CLAW has kindly decided that funds raised tonight go towards P.E.A.C.E Scooter. You give, they give to me, I give to others. Great David-that’s a lot of giving…..

Get to the diner early, y’all, buy drinks and food and don’t forget to bring cash for betting, bribing, and merchandise… Without further ado, here’s the lineup:

Cowgirl Sady-istic (Alix Bryan)
The Prim Reaper (Jennifer Hoyt Tidwell)
The Banana Blitz (Jenni Case)
The Sidewinder (Ros Casey)
The Homewrecker (Kara Dawson)
Kaity the Harrible (Kaity Harr)
Bunny Hampton (Amy Noelle Ferguson)
The Amazon (Maria Manzione)

We’ll keep the first round matchups a secret until the tournament, though. Start the betting!
Video link from some press CLAW and myself received. What a way to break all the news to my mom, huh?

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Martin Luther King


Look, this isn’t funny. Three great leaders were assassinated within 5 years of one another. What this says to me is that the idea of change scares people, and people will act out of fear and bigotry to subdue the brighter light. According to the campaign news, our country, is hungry for change. Obama has built most of his campaign on the mantra of CHANGE. Perhaps now is the time we do question what our convictions are, and how love will help us cultivate these convictions. It is not enough to just look toward a leader to do it. As we’ve seen from the assassination of three great leaders in our history-one person can not spearhead change for us. We must be the change we wish to see in the world.
On this 40 anniversary marking MLK’s assassination, I am listening to Marianne Williamson. The following is a passage from a speech she gave at the Omega Institute, where I lived and worked for 3 years.

“How come hatred has the human race hostage?
Every time you hear of a terrorist act…you always hear the President refer to it as an act of cowardice that won’t be tolerated.
Cowardice?
I will go with wicked, unconsciousable, I’ll go with so many words, but I’m not sure I’ll go with cowardly. The truth of the matter is that hatred has a perverse kind of courage…
Miracles arise from conviction. Manifest power comes from conviction.
Hatred is acting with more conviction on the planet today.
I can’t imagine a kinda, sorta, when it’s convenient terrorist…Terrorists are very clear about what they want, willing to do any training it takes to effectuate their cause and very willing to die if that is what it takes.
The problem on the planet today is that those who are committed to that which it is not love behave with more conviction than do those of us who are centered in conviction of love. It is most dangerous if you feel it and you don’t act on it…..”

How did this happen?

There was a chain of action broken in the 60’s. I believe that the American conscious was frightened, suppressed as it witnessed the execution of it’s great leaders who were acting in conviction, acting in the interest of building a better nation. Can you image the fear you might have as yours leaders, promoting Peace and Justice, are all murdered within a 5 year period?
John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King and Robert F. Kennedy.
MLK and RFK were murdered within just two months of one another.
“We’ve had difficult times in the past. We will have difficult times in the future. It is not the end of violence; it is not the end of lawlessness; it is not the end of disorder.”
Ironically, RFK says the above on April 3, 1968, the day before MLK was murdered.

Ironically MLK speaks those words in the above video, the very night before he was murdered. It gives me chills. He is saying, “Like anyone, I would like to live a long life. Longevity has its place. But, I’m not concerned about that now.”

MLK was a man with love and conviction. He rallied thousands to proactively cultivate justice. Look at the seeds of this change that have flourished and then look at the garden and ask, How can I help tend it? What seeds do we need now. And how we water them with conviction?

It is not enough to quote these leaders, it is time to act in the same conviction, so that we don’t have just one leader who can be assassinated. But rather that we are a nation of individuals strong, all willing to eradicate hatred, bigotry,racism, and injustice.

*photo taken in 2007 at the King Center in Atlanta, GA

Tombstone

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Riding with the Shield

Ladies and gents: I am very happy and grateful to announce the GREAT news that Corazzo is supporting P.E.A.C.E Scoot by providing three crucial items for the long miles ahead.

Corazzo never ceases to amaze me. This young company is skyrocketing because their product is “By scooterists for scooterists,” and because it has superior design that all two-wheel riders need. But you know what really finished it all off?? They are all around solid guys/gals. They scoot hard, work hard and have a lot of laughs.

Photobucket

Each product they design raises the bar in style, function and purpose. If you are new to scooters or are considering buying a scooter, let me emphasize the importance of good gear.

Corazzo offers riding apparel that delivers “abrasion protection, CE rated impact protection and increased visibility while offering an award winning style. In short, our jackets are just as cool in the coffee shop as they are on your bike.”

And that’s a true statement….

I’ve worn my jacket to many a coffeshop…..
Oh and last summer, when I flew off the scooter and slid across gravel-there were no rips. (did I ever mention that to anyone?)

At the last minute before the trip last year, I purchased a 5.0 jacket from Corazzo. I fretted for 2 days that the size would be wrong, or that it wouldn’t arrive in time. No worries, they got it to me, they were encouraging and the jacket was perfect. I’m looking forward to another 9,000 miles in it.

Box of Goodies

I finally reclaimed the Corazzo box from a sketchy neighbor, who had actually OPENED it. While the jerk might have taken away the excitement about opening a package-I’m the one who gets to keep the AMAZING GOODIES INSIDE. Said items are Gloves, Underhoody and Messenger Bag. How did I survive without the messenger bag last year?? I’ll film a little video of me packing it up right before I leave-it has more room than I estimated!!!

The underhoody is excellently constructed. It’s lightweight, it’s soft and there are thumbholes in the sleeves-so it doesn’t get all phooey and caught up when you slip on your jacket.

It’s going to be so useful on those chillier days when the ride must go on. Like all the way up the foggy Pacific Coastal Highway…… all the way up an over to Portland to visit the shop again, hang out with some great peeps and give thanks. Oh, and to challenge a certain salesman to some foozball. Stay tuned for news about other P.E.A.C.E supporters, coming up soon. And ya know, some Genuine props are always in order-America’s Smallest, but Bestest Scooter Company!

IMG_2786

IMG_2781

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Animoto-domo arigato

Ok, I don’t do tech reviews. I spend enough time using gadgets in some half baked way that works well enough for me-the last thing I want to do is review said gadget.
Other people do tech reviews and there is plenty of worthy buzz going around about Animoto. According to their mission, they hope to acquire Google by next year. That’s bold and with that same zealous energy they created a program which uses Cinematic Artifical Intelligence to make your digital photos rock. Yep.

“Cinematic Artificial Intelligence technology that thinks like an actual director and editor. It analyzes and combines user-selected images and music with the same sophisticated post-production skills & techniques that are used in television and film.”

Below is an example of such supercharged videos. Thanks to Dave Mangano, who, as a bold explorer in the podcast territory, has begun using Animoto to promote his shows. Brilliant. If you haven’t listened to the podcast yet, go for it, it’s my very first……

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p.e.a.c.e happenings

Warning, there are many plugs in this blog. They all represent good things and people, (except for the part about the sponsor who dissed me) so it is safe and enjoyable to proceed.

Today I met with Brendan, who works at our cutting edge local weekly paper, C-ville news. He had previously expressed interest in covering P.E.A.C.E Scooter. However, true serendipity lies in the fact that the news wanted to cover the recipient of next weeks CLAW tournament. I’m so friggin excited that it’s ME, allowing me a chance to talk about my favorite things; arm wrasslin and peace scootin’. The only downside of the video below is that you can not see the little jack-e-lope over my head-which is stealing my mojo. Can’t explain it-tattoo me, spank me, make me run 5 miles or ride a scooter 20,000-but jack-e-lopes freak me out. Watch for a glimpse of it at the end-if you can take your eyes away from the exciting thumbwrastling match!

Last week I cut a little video trailer for you about the upcoming podcast with Dave Mangano, of SCTRCST.COM. He did a really amazing job, of listening, as I rattle on and on. But there are some pretty hilarious exchanges between us and I hope you take some time to sit back and listen to it. While you are on his site, poke around and explore the other notable podcasts he has up; like interviews with Peter Moore (Vroom with a View) and Matua, from Vespadition.

The past week has yielded some progress with P.E.A.C.E Scoot planning. The grapevine has been buzzing and more kind people are contacting me about housing and even offering donations. The Peace map has seen three new additions this week: Dave Mangano, Steven Davis and Heinz Kramp-thank you all kindly. A friend contacted me and said she has a lawn and I can mow it into a Peace sign. That takes care of North Cackalacky. PJ Chmiel offered up a shiny new 2008 tour postcard that tells the story through last years photos. They should arrive this week.

Three new sponsors have confirmed interest-although I’m not counting the chickens yet. Two weeks ago I had a very promising, great chat with the head distributor from Nolan helmets. He confirmed that CIMA/Nolan would enthusiastically support the tour with a delicious, fancy intercom helmet. And since then he has left the line cold-no returned emails or phone calls. Very sad indeed. Now the search for a good helmet continues.

I sent very few sponsorship requests-I need very little. Instead I’m trying to contact peace, community, and environmental organizations around the country and also companies who can help fundraise. The few I’ve sent out for actual goods have scored about 2-5. At least people are writing me back immediately with their NO’s-the waiting game requires a lot of patience. All in all-I have a feeling that every thing will work out smoothly, no need for worry.

As of now I need a helmet, good lightweight travel stove, camelbak, camping towel, raingear, and hopefully some type of grocery store gift card. And phone-great David-my piece of crap refurbished phone can barely make it down the street.

Barista work has all but ceased starting this week-just two shifts this week-a massive relief. I think I might just be able to rejuvenate before the long haul starts. At least my sanity will be preserved. Perhaps no one knows that I have been suffering through shifts since the new cook started. I now work with the chattiest man I’ve EVER met-and I can talk a lot. I lost my voice the week he started.

OH- but good news is that I picked up a new job today, one that I can actually do from the road. I am excited to announce that team lalala has hired me on as a beta-tester. It’s a great team of people whom I admire and who have good energy. Since the software is in the works, I won’t offer details. I’m just really interested in the project and happy to generate a wee little income while traveling. Great opportunity, for reals.

In other news my favorite scooter company owner and vegetarian, Philip, should be back in country soon and I will hear news on the engine plans for Audre. Today-weather gloomy, cold and wet. Good night to watch a flick. Ciao!

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A peace piece, by D.

I am very humbled and overjoyed by two major events yesterday.
map ping
A gentleman named Heinz, a customer at my coffeeshop, donated a generous sum of money to the gas fund. His donation of $250 covers a large portion of petrol. I placed his name on the Peace map. The Peace map is how I will fundraise money, the majority of it going to 3 chosen organizations. A small part goes to food, gas, lodging for me. The more free food and couches to stay on-the more money raised goes to nonprofits. You get to sponsor a part of the Peace sign, and are free to donate as much or as little as you like.

I also humbly offer you this piece that Daphne submitted to One Million Peace Signs (OMPS). If you haven’t visited them yet, please “run FAST” to see one of my favorite websites. On the 1st of this year, the creator behind OMPS had a flash of brilliance. Why not host a website where people can submit their Peace photos and make it really easy using flickr and facebook?

What is in a name? Well obviously-they are still a long from the goal-but it’s all about the journey-not just the destination! As of Saturday, March 29, 2008 they have 6,447 photos from 2,335 members in 88 days. Right on! When I can, I help blog on their website. It’s the most fun ever, I’m so happy to help out…and look at all those cool photos from around the world. In addition to hosting amazing photos, they moderate discussion, post Peace events and showcase Peace Hero articles. OMPS asked Daphne to write something about me. (blushing here but honored) Honestly, after I read it, I was so happy that my intent does shine out to some people. And it definitely gave me that surge of energy I need whilst making all these preparations. BECAUSE REALLY, THIS IS ABOUT US. Not about me, I was a little bashful ’bout the whole thing. The current Peace hero over there is Eric Burdon from the group, The Animals. This particular statement of his jumped out at me:

….I asked, “Where can Peace be found?
He replied, “In the eyes of a well-nurtured child or animal that’s not under threat, usually from a human. Do you think I know peace? Personally, at the moment I do…but do I live in a peaceful world? I do not. So it’s within.” I followed that question with, “How can a person help Peace manifest in their life?” He said, “Do the right thing, breathe, and do it again.”

If you have some photos to post at OMPS…it’s really easy. Just join the OMPS FLICKR group, http://www.flickr.com/groups/575360@N25/

Alix Bryan (a.k.a P.E.A.C.E Scooter, a.k.a Scooter Girl) of Charlottesville, VA is my Peace Hero. Last year, she quit her job, put herself into debt and climbed on her scooter to “put Peace on the map.” What that meant to Alix was an 11,000 mile ride (originally estimated at 9,000 ) over the span of 13 weeks (originally estimated at 8 ) on 1o inch tires, riding 4 inches from the ground to ask people all over the US “How do you define Peace? How do you teach it to your children?”
She was inspired while visiting an art exhibit where she saw a quote by a John Lennon which read, “If a billion people were thinking about peace, there would be peace in our world.” About 40 days later, she hit the road to find the truth in that statement. She set out to make a documentary, and wound up making a bunch of friends and a big difference.

Alix called the ride P.E.A.C.E Scooter (A Patriot’s Exhibition Advancing Community and Environmentalism, on a Scooter) She didn’t take a political message with her, or a predetermined notion of what the “right” answers to her questions were. She did take genuine curiosity, minimal gear, and the least detrimental form of motorized transportation to put both of those to work– at about 55miles an hour and 90miles(!) per gallon.

Her route started on July 15th at the White House and traced the inside of a peace sign on the US map. When it ended on October 13th at the Bush ranch in Crawford Texas, with a warm welcome from the Crawford Peace House (and CNN) Alix said, “but it doesn’t end here.” And she meant it—she ‘s hitting the road again this year to ride 9,000 more miles (count ’em up folks, that’s 20,000 miles in all), put the perimeter on the peace sign, and ask people to join her in defining peace. She says, “Defining Peace is how I believe we can create a wave of awareness in our world…I believe more Peace will occur when people define it, become it, and teach it.”

Alix maintained a blog and a Flickr account during her ride and continues to share her journey at www.peacescooter.com. This year she hopes to meet up and work with other peacemakers and mow a lawn into a peace sign in every state! She will also be helping to raise funds for Peace organizations. She says, “This ride is a tribute to those working for Peace and an invitation to everyone to think about Peace with me.” She will continue blogging-this year with video blogs too. Her website recently got a makeover and some neat new features, including an interactive map which lets people sponsor sections of the peace sign. The majority of every dollar raised will be given to peace organizations such as the Peace Alliance.

Yes, but is she a Republican or a Democrat? It doesn’t matter. In fact, I had hundreds of conversations online and on the phone with her between hearing of her trip last June and finally meeting her in August, and even after spending the first day with her, I still didn’t know the answer. She recently said (in the trailer for her documentary) “It doesn’t matter if we have differences in opinion, I want to know how we can make a difference. It is up to us to co-create a better future because if Peace doesn’t matter today, how does tomorrow even matter?”

It isn’t only because of what she believes, or what she writes that Alix is my Peace hero; it is because she is DOING something about it. She is taking to the streets (literally) and deciding not only to speak her Peace, but to live her truth and to make Peace a priority.

And the haiku part of this assignment:

A Peace Hero Named Alix

Because she lives Peace,
Sunrise to sunset, breathes it
She is my hero.

Respectfully submitted by:
Daphne Comeau Lewiston, Maine

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2008 Postcard

2008 P.E.A.C.E.TOUR
Postcard

2008 P.E.A.C.E Scooter Post Card

2008 Postcard Back

Many thanks to PJ Chmiel for his craftmanship and patience. I just ordered 2,000 of these cards to distribute all across our country; from border to border, coast to coast. To see the 2007 tour postcard, click here.

The seed of this trip has always been to discover how individuals and commmunities define, promote, and work towards Peace. The postcard is meant to invite the people I meet to join the dialogue, and to have them invite someone else by gifting them with the post card.

So, yes, its the gift that keeps giving, keeps circulating-because hopefully one card will get two people to the website. It will be interesting to watch where the cards wind up. If a person can’t think of anyone to send it to-well, they can send it to ME! Daphne kindly donated a P.O. Box. Now you can send me mail and she will help get it to me!

The address is:
P.E.A.C.E SCOOTER
P.O. Box 452
04212-0452

This year PJ chose pictures from my flickr account-to show the many incredible people, places and things that I experienced along the 11,000 mile journey. It was very hard to help him choose-I took more than 2,000 photos in 3 months. The ‘Dear Mom’ bit on the front is a tribute to my moms-for bringing me here. Of course in her mind I’m still 14 and so she’s trying to get behind me on this trip….

Now just one week until the cards come in! Four weeks before I am on the road!

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Now, here is good video

David Lynch. Yes, THE David Lynch responsible for cult classics that often examine the disaccord in one’s soul. Well, do you know about the other pursuits of David Lynch? Transcendental meditation, Peace palaces, World Peace, Peace, and more Peace. Very impressed with his dedication and insights, I wrote to the David Lynch Foundation. I received an email back, forwarded from their secretary, “please commend Alix for his dedication to Peace.” But that’s really neither here nor there. Click on the video and watch one of my heroes discuss Peace rather profoundly, yet simply. And I must say-if these guys had long hair, leis and tie-dyes-I bet they wouldn’t be taken quite so seriously.

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Fidgeteer


Fidgeteer from Alix Bryan on Vimeo.
Last night I had the honor of speaking with Dave Mangano, who runs great podcasts over on sctrcst.com . Dave is a pleasant conversationalist. That attribute, along with his amor for scooters, makes his show a success. He walked me through my first use of Skype. Actually a simple process. The headphone purchase will be helpful doing video voiceovers, although not all white noise is eliminated. What was discombobulating for me was the lack of eye contact.The show airs sometime after 3/30. You will then be able to hear his side-but for now you can watch me fidget. Apparently, I have lost my good posture from so much time behind a computer. I think its time for one of those fancy office chairs.

We talked about the trip last year and he invited me back onto the show before leaving on this 9,000 mile journey. That’s only 5 weeks from today! I will have a lot more concise details to share with him-there is some exciting sponsor news and potential raffles in the works. Money raised through all raffles will be donated to nonprofit organizations. I have decided on one recipient,the Peace Alliance, who are steadfastly working on legislation to create The Department of Peace. We will talk in detail about that premise soon. The legislation is an important, intelligent measure that will “enhance our current problem-solving options, providing practical, nonviolent solutions to the problems of domestic and international conflict.” The DOP will work in equal standing with the Department of Defense-a measure that even our Constitutional Forefathers suggested would assist in that premise of ‘checks and balances.’ (remember those, anyone????)

I am honored to have their support and to raise funds for donation to such a worthy cause. The new postcard is almost through its final stages and tells the story of last years trip; the places and people I experienced. The back is mostly the same. An invitation to define Peace and then send it forward to someone you know.

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Perspective

I’m searching for quotes, at work, for our quote board. I just came across this laughable gem by Ken Olson,

“There is no reason anyone would want a computer in their home.”

– Ken Olson, president, chairman and founder of Digital Equipment Corporation, 1977

 I hope that 30 years from now people can’t remember life before their scooter…..

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Happy Anniversary Peace Sign

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While the passing of the war anniversary was not a happy moment, I can share better news with you. The Peace sign is 50 years old this weekend. My initial research showed muddled dates, but that was because it was actually USED for the first time in a Nuclear Disarmament march, that occurred on Easter Weekend in 1958. (a leap year at that)

The march took place across the Atlantic, in Britain. Yes, the Peace sign was birthed a good decade before its famous adoption by Vietnam War protestors. Gerald Holtom, a commercial artist, suggested that the those marching to the atomic weapons research plant in Aldermaston carry signs painted with a neat, tidy and powerful symbol.

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Around 5,000 marchers were in attendance for the unveiling of the Peace sign that Easter weekend. An impressive number given the recent anniversary of our 5th year in Iraq and the small turnout for such a precipitous occasion.

Those of you who read this website know that my mission is to discover how individuals and communities define and work towards Peace. The actual significance behind the tidy, little symbol, that anyone can scribble, is pretty complex.

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Gerard utilized and compacted the semaphore letters for N(uclear) and D(isarmament). Semaphore is a method of Naval signaling using two flags held in position by the signaler. Of course, its meaning was specific to the marchers cause. I’m sure that still, some protestors were boggled by it, probably picturing a dove or something more universal at the time. It is now engraved in our minds as a Universal Symbol, one that travels across borders and belief systems and serves many civil rights movements.

It did have a deeper meaning to its creator. PhotobucketYears later, Gerard discussed its internal, personal symbolism with Peace News, saying, “I was in despair. Deep despair. I drew myself, the representative of an individual in despair, with hands palm outstretched outwards and downwards in the manner of Goya’s peasant before the firing squad. I formalised the drawing into a line and put a circle round it.” This was a commentary 50 years ago on the power paradigms that people faced-war weary generations newly introduced to the atom bomb.

While we might not have Peace in our world, and the bomb factory in Aldermaston is still open, the symbol itself has tenure. Generation after generation are inspired by it and continue to display it, some with purpose and passion, some purely commercial. My theory is that we must decode its personal meaning, obtain inner peace, before Peace is known globally, forever.

I am very excited that my journey to create a 20,000 mile Peace sign will finish in this year that marks a major anniversary of its creation. While I will be taking some big hills, again through the Rockies, the Peace symbol is far from over the hill…..

It is a infinite brand that belongs to no corporation, although it has been heavily commercialized, and it was meant to be freely used by the people. I ask that you all think beyond the simple scribble, delve deep into your hearts, and leave your definition on the Wall of Beliefs.

National Geographic will soon release a book called Peace: The Biography of A Symbol. I recommend it to everyone.

*Thanks to Crystal Waters and Pete Selkowe because they forwarded some resources to me.*

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EGGSpect Peace

EGGSpect Peace

The coolest Easter gift I’ve ever been given-a virtual gift at that. Daphne made these from 700 miles away and sent me the pictures. Take that Easter Bunny!

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Matua and Vespadition

“You can not travel the path until you have become the path itself”

This is the credo of Matua, who will be traveling a long path starting this spring. I heard from Matua in the end of January. PhotobucketHis first letter came to me a month after I had decided to complete the Peace sign this year. Now, I am always glad to answer questions about long distance scootering-I have some debt to pay off for all the people who offered me advice last year. Matua certainly has a long trip planned-30,000+ miles. But, it’s the message he promotes which really caught my eye.

 

 

The words in his first email inspired me so much that I’m going to share them with you:

I’m doing it for a multitude of reasons (partly to discover what America ‘really’ is – through its people and NOT its policies), but mainly to perform random acts of kindness. I believe strongly in making a difference. I think those that can should. I’m a Buddhist and a vegan, and try to live my life as compassionately as I can. I’m riding a scooter first and foremost because it is the most environmentally friendly means of motorised transportation (I had originally planned to walk the entire way, but it was logistically impossible). As I travel – strictly on backroads and two-lane roadways – I want to meet Americans in their element, living their lives, going about their days. I want to hear their stories and pay back their generosity of sharing by volunteering when and where I can in the communities I travel through.

Well, right on! Or Ride On…as his journey starts April 1, 2008 and continues….well…for at least a year.
When we first began corresponding, Matua had no scooter. But he had his sights set on a Vespa. In fact, he had the purdy logo all done before he even had the scoot. Thankfully, a sponsor stepped forward to provide the Vespa. In fact, within a two week period many sponsors have jumped on board. PhotobucketMatua is very ambitious, very determined; I wish him the best.

It’s been reassuring to know someone else is digging in their heels and grappling with the hundreds of preparation details. It’s also been really cool to see how thorough one can be given advance planning. Matua had actually planned for quite awhile to walk the route, through 49 state capitals and 8 Canadian provinces. He then recollected the pleasures of riding a scooter and like me, realized a scooter can bring you to just as many people, without harming the environment.

Our communication has so far been really insightful and we hope our routes cross at some point. We have some good ideas cooking for collaboration whilst on our prospective road trips, so stay tuned…

Both of us can’t wait until we are actually on the road-going and doing! I dub this form of social outreach, scoot-a-vism. One thing for sure, we invite you to Keep the P.A.C.E. (PEACE AND COMPASSION EVERYWHERE)

Last year, while I was scooting for Peace, there were 2 Peace Marchers walking across the country. I found a strength in knowing other people were also out on the road, going the distance to support change. Matua wants to make the road his home, replacing comforts with a call to spread kindness, compassion and volunteerism. Three things that help create Peace and strong community-so you know I’m all about it! You will see the similarity and interdependence of our goals and philosophies, but our routes and our approaches will offer unique perspectives.

One of Matua’s many cool designs asks, “What are you doing?” Fair question. My hope is that you will not just love your neighbors, but show some love to Us kind, homeless, traveling folk who might be headed to your town. Another guess is that you will be spending some time following the journeys of two scooterists out to make a difference.

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His Holiness the Dali Llama

There is a worthwhile petition online that I hope you visit and sign. I want you to imagine a life where spirituality and education are your only pursuits, you do so only to better yourself and the world. You are completely selfless person, with few possessions, with no interest in acquisition of property nor need to colonize other states. You are a kind, gentle person who does not use a gun, a bomb, all you want is your declared land to remain independent so your nation can remain devoted to spiritual, educational pursuits.

And suddenly you are attacked, your leader exiled, your customs and schools censored and shut-down, members in your nonviolent community beaten and arrested. And then you watch as your oppressors become international players, their economy thrives, no one chastises them and the last straw-your oppressors flip the script on YOU. They say you are the rebel and you are trying to ruin them.

In a very general sense, this is happening in Tibet.
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I just signed an urgent petition calling on the Chinese government to respect human rights in Tibet and engage in meaningful dialogue with the Dalai Lama. This is really important, and I thought you might want to take action:

After nearly 50 years of Chinese rule, the Tibetans are sending out a global cry for change. But violence is spreading across Tibet and neighbouring regions, and the Chinese regime is right now considering a choice between increasing brutality or dialogue, that could determine the future of Tibet and China.

We can affect this historic choice. China does care about its international reputation. Its economy is totally dependent on “Made in China” exports that we all buy, and it is keen to make the Olympics in Beijing this summer a celebration of a new China that is a respected world power.

President Hu needs to hear that ‘Brand China’ and the Olympics can succeed only if he makes the right choice. But it will take an avalanche of global people power to get his attention. Click below to join me and sign a petition to President Hu calling for restraint in Tibet and dialogue with the Dalai Lama — and tell absolutely everyone you can right away. The petition is organized by Avaaz, and they are urgently aiming to reach 1 million signatures to deliver directly to Chinese officials:

I don’t always sign those things. This is one worth taking the 37 seconds. However, what I also hope you do is think this one through.
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There is also a lot of good information on the web to help you think more about it:
Here is one sight which lists other resources
http://buddhism.about.com/b/2008/03/18/can-a-dalai-lama-resign.htm

The lady who writes that blogsite was criticized because her blog was seen political not buddhist. Three cheers to her response:

I’ve received some emails from people complaining that the Tibet crisis is a political, not a Buddhist, issue. But the two cannot be separated. Part of China’s program for assimilating Tibetans into Chinese culture has been to crush Buddhism in Tibet. At least 6,000 religious sites — monasteries, temples, and shrines — have been destroyed, along with unique and priceless documents and artifacts. Monks have been harassed, imprisoned and tortured. The head of Tibetan Buddhism, the Dalai Lama, has been exiled for 49 years.Several accounts I have read of the recent violence in Lhasa say it was touched off when Chinese police attacked and brutalized some monks, and crowds of laypeople reacted to defend the monks. I’m sure the Chinese have a different story, of course.

We’re seeing in Tibet, in Myanmar, and in other Asian countries that Buddhist monks are in the forefront of political resistance to repressive regimes. Even where they are not official parts of government, Buddhist institutions have played a leadership role in many parts of Asia for centuries. Thus the practice and future of Buddhism in Asia is very much tied into politics.

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Honk For Peace

Today marks the day the U.S. went to war. Whether or not you are for the war–people are dying. Most people who support the war will not look you in the eye and say, “I’m happy people are dying.”

Well, that’s a common ground we share then. I’m not happy people are dying or that our soldiers are experiencing some awful situations. As a matter of fact, I’m not happy anyone is suffering. And there is a lot of suffering in this world that I just wish I could help make better. I can write about it and show you what I find.

Oh, I bet another common ground that conservatives/liberals share is dismay about all the taxpayer money being spent. Unless of course, you are one of those getting rich off the war..

Now, being PRO-PEACE, I would much rather see soldiers come home, Iraqi civilians safe, and almost 3 billion taxpayer dollars shifted towards more savory ventures. Like education, health care, art, environmental research, legal aid, housing…..

There are many points I could make here, but its late and the most important realization I have is that it’s not bad to go and demonstrate that you want our country to be a better place. You know right now I’ve got a few sponsorship requests out in the field and I think to myself, “Maybe this isn’t good footage to put up right now.” Yep, that actually crossed my mind. Thing is, there isn’t anything happening in this video that should disgust someone. And if they are, well, I can’t not be me. Just thinking about this stuff is why I hesitated in seeking sponsorships last year. I’ve kinda got a rough situation here-Matua has secured a ton of sponsors talking about kindness and compassion, which is at the root of building a Peaceful world. Meanwhile, I’m traveling 20,000 miles to explore how individuals and communities define Peace. It shouldn’t be a shame to talk about making Peace and in the process discussing the horrible travesties of war. But, it gets some dirty reactions. That my friends, means it must be worthwhile……..

And as far as worrying about this being a sensitive subject, I say, Assume the best about somebody if you want to see them do their best.

Enjoy the video:

Stop Funding the War from Alix Bryan on Vimeo.

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Value Life

Value Life. Not an unwarranted statement as we stop, on this 5th anniversary, to assess the lives lost in this war. Whether you are for the war or not, the first and foremost thing to consider is death. Loss of life. Our soldiers, bless them, have agreed to risk theirs for our country. Perhaps our country should stop to consider this dire predicament, as well as contemplate how many Iraqi lives are lost-civilians and soldiers alike.

I hope you know these are just my opinions, they come from my heart. I’m not an expert and I welcome your feedback.

*video by Beachblogger*

Often I communicate to people that this is a PRO-PEACE website. In effect, being for Peace means I do not support war as a way to solve conflict and rebuild nations. To take it a step further, being PRO-PEACE means that I believe as humans, we are capable of valuing all life in such a way that we do not allow for murder. I do believe in accountability, sometimes complicated questions arise that can be uncomfortable.

We, the people of the U.S. are capable of spearheading practical, non violent solutions to domestic and international conflict. We are, at this juncture in our civilization, ready to apply our history lessons. We are, at this juncture, ready to comprehend the struggle and deaths of other humans in other countries. We are ready to extend our borders, not just physically, because in many ways, those borders have been extended-but to extend them mentally and emotionally.

I believe many institutions utilize an outdated approach to conflict resolution. Times have changed; at home, in the community, in business, government and around our globe. Strategies of power must calibrate as well. To be PRO-PEACE is to understand that murder is murder. No agenda justifies murder. The best policy is one that holds up through a spectrum of situations. If my child fights on the playground, as children will, I do not teach my child that is wrong behavior by beating the crap out of them. If my child lies, I teach him that is wrong.

Perhaps we need to select better leaders-ones who are role models. Ones who do not lie, do not hire prostitutes, do not smoke crack, embezzle money and generally piss on the honor of public office. We need statesmen and perhaps more of us should run for office. To be PRO-PEACE is to work towards resolution of the indifferences that create wars in the first place. To eradicate the conditions that generate prejudice and hostility. Peace can not be created, nor discovered until it is known. This means that we will resist or remain indifferent to Peace until we know what it means. I pray that Americans take better care of their own, love their neighbors, their land, and seek representation in local/state/federal government. PRO PEACE consists of something I call T.A.C.T.-Thinking, Action, Co-Creating and Teaching. T.A.C.T will not just keep us from wars in the future, it will help us create a kinder, more compassionate world that functions better because we appreciate cultural differences.

To be PRO-PEACE is to understand, value and appreciate that millions of activists rally and protest government policy. Voices around the world are chanting loudly. Voices in the U.S. are chanting loudly. To work for peace, in all the numerous ways, is hard work. A critical mass for Peace is only realized when various groups overcome fragmentation, mission differences, and philosophical nuances to utilize all the available resources. Solidarity is a difficult achievement; those working for Peace have different means and credos. The strongest movement will be one that understands the overlap and vision between all groups and utilizes the interdependence.

Today marks the day when, 5 years ago the President declared war. The U.S. too often responds to terr-oist actions, which wrongfully murders people, by in return murdering even more people. In both situations, civilians are harmed, the environment flooded with toxins and billions of dollars drained from the economy. Which could have been used to stimulate economies and distribute wealth so that the basic needs of everyone where met.

Today, whether you support the war or not-ask yourself-do you support murder? Of our own soldiers, Iraqi soldiers and civilians. We are not loosing innocent civilians, the Iraqi state is.

Through a PRO-PEACE perspective:

  1. We went to war to protect U.S. soil from more terro-ist attacks from an extremist fundamentalist.
  2. We have now lost close to 4,000 U.S. soldiers-not counting civilian contractors caught in the crossfire.
  3. Iraqi deaths, civilians alone, nears 90,000. Civilians. Like you and me. The death toll is close to one million, all counted.
  4. The U.S. has weakened ties with our allies to surge forward with our power play.
  5. We have spent trillions of dollars. Tax payer money. Your money. My money. Money for the starving children. Money for education, health care, parks, art, transit, shelters, Hurricane Katrina relief-American infrastructure.

In fact, if this war is just a response to the uber extremist terro-ists who attacked us….then could we those terro-ist faction inadvertently won already…by creating even more violence????

It is time to try a new approach, STRENGTH THROUGH PEACE.