Kickstarter

One month ago I rode the Greyhound bus across the United States, assuming it would be the last time I wanted to "Go Greyhound" for the rest of my life.

Two weeks ago, though, I purchased a 60-day Discovery Pass from Greyhound which will allow me to travel wherever I want for 60 days during the summer.  I realized during that first cross country trip that Greyhound is a neglected transportation tradition in and of itself, and that there exists stories upon stories to be learned and shared with others about the people, culture, and landscape of America from the open road and a cramped window seat.

I will be departing Portland, Oregon on June 30th with exactly that goal in mind: to see as many miles of the country as I can, and to write a new collection of non fiction essays documenting my travels.  I have yet to set an itinerary for my travels, but I've discovered that I have some old friends in Bellingham, WA: I guess I'll go there for a day or two. Greyhound also goes all the way to Key West, FL: definitely going there. In general; wherever the road beckons, I'll follow. 

With the bus pass already purchased, and a little nest egg waiting in my savings account, the major expenses of the journey are already covered.  Your contribution through Kickstarter is my way of inviting as many friends and family along with me on the journey. The money that is raised through Kickstarter will be used to cover any emergency expenses that may arise over the summer (i.e. I'm stuck in some really ghetto area of a city, and it's 10+ miles back to the bus station, and I need to hail a cab), but, most importantly, will help fund the production of different incentives that I want to provide to you as a way of saying thanks, including the new book of essays.

Kickstarter works on an all or nothing basis. If, by June 25th, the $1,000 dollar goal is reached, then your credit card will be charged and the money dispersed.  Incentives will be mailed out at their earliest convenience, and your contribution includes shipping costs. 

I am extremely grateful for the support and encouragement I have received so far from friends and family while preparing for this epic journey and putting together the Kickstarter campaign. Several friends have contributed their artistic talents, and I would like to say a big thank you to John Zappas for designing the "Greyhound EPIC" logo, and to Toby Winningham for shooting and editing the video above.

To those I hold dearly, and those I will soon meet; be well.