A quick update

Memorial day was hot. Someone said it was between 90 and 95 degrees, but we didn't get to look at the temperature. It felt like it was hot. Nevertheless, we've made it to Shamokin, PA.

Shamokin used to be a town booming with industry from the coal mines. The coal mines are mostly all shut down now. Many other industries in the area have also gone away. Unemployment in the town is high, and many people look to unemployment checks to make ends meet.

It's an old town, dating back to the 1800's. There are many old buildings to seen, some beautiful mansions, and gorgeous cathedral-like churches. The Evangelical Congregational church in Shamokin (we're staying with Mark Brownson, the pastor at the church, and his wife Beth, who have been more than hospitable this evening!) is very much like something one might find in Europe somewhere. However, as with anything, the years have deteriorated many of the buildings and as one hears about the current state of the town they seem to be an accurate representation.

On a different note, there are plenty of abandoned coal mines around. Hopefully we'll get some pictures and be able to post them shortly. We've been taking plenty of other video footage and plan to have that up shortly.

And on a pleasant note, everyone we've met so far has been absolutely splendid. We met a couple and their grandchild and they took a few of our brochures to pass around their church. They also donated to the cause. The commissioner of Schuylkill County came out of his house (we were stopped for a second in front of it) and invited us in for some water and conversation. He's one of the one's who said it was a little over 90 degrees. Literally everyone--save for a few excited teenagers who drive by yelling obscenities--has been very caring and excited about what we're doing.

We should have another story or two about the people we're meeting up soon enough.