The official Dancing Deer Baking Company Blog

I was able to pass by Senator Kerry’s office on my way to the Naylor Road Family Shelter. The Senator couldn’t have been more gracious and delighted to welcome me, a soaking wet water rat in from a 120 mile ride from Richmond. We talked about homelessness and cycling. He was curious to hear what we learned about the available services to homeless families, and/or lack thereof. Getting into the Russell building was an adventure in itself. As I later learned, the Vice President was also arriving at the same time. When I walked up to, what I assumed, was my police escort (according to the Senator’s staff instructions), I was shuttled off to the side by the Secret Service who thought I was either a kook or potentially dangerous. I had left the support vehicle behind at the Route One Bridge over the Potomac, and they never caught up, leaving me with no opportunity to look the least bit presentable. After the limousines passed though, the authorities and I became friendly.

When I entered the Russell building, the security guards helped me identify all the technology strapped to me and my Trek. According to the Senator’s staff, this may have been the first bicycle to visit the inside of the Russell building.

The Senator was terrifically enthusiastic about what I was doing, and of course, offered his assistance. The staff was friendly and supportive. It made me feel like I was coming home.