Over the years I've coined the phrase, "There are times in life when you have to stand alone, but it doesn't mean that you have to go it alone." I have spent the vast majority of the last 13 years walking America's historic highways alone, but there were always individuals who were behind the scenes helping and encouraging me on.
Over the course of the last few months a handful of individuals expressed their desire to help with the mission of Cross Roads. On this 4th of July of 2009, exactly one year after the launching of walkingamessage.com I am excited and proud to introduce the people who are now the official Cross Roads Support Team.
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My name is Amber Herrington. I've known Dennis, or rather he's known me, since I was born; he is my uncle. I was born in Rogers, Arkansas in 1983, and lived in the vicinity until 2007 when I came out west to the eclectic city of Portland, Oregon. Between the summer of 2001 and the end of 2008 I spent my time working as a Post Payment Auditor and then a Director of Logistics Planning. I decided to return to the world of academia in January of 2009 in pursuit of an English degree and am currently a full time student at Portland State University.
I find that free time is in short supply these days, but when I come across some I like to read, run, cook, and go for walks about Portland, assuming that it's not raining. Other things I like to do, but often fail to find time for, are hiking, camping, traveling abroad, and writing.
While Dennis is out and about trekking across America I'll be assisting him by coordinating and relaying daily communications, and also by ensuring that he can find restaurants, hotels, and when necessary, himself. I like to refer to myself/position as Amstar.
I am proud of Dennis, what he is doing, and the message he is trying to convey through his journey. I am also proud to be a member of his support team.
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My name is Calvin Thomas and my wife Cheryl and I live in Springdale, Arkansas. We have two daughters and three grandchildren with another one on the way. Dennis and I first met in the spring of 1973 when we were seniors in high school. We developed a friendship while working at a local discount chain store in Northwest Arkansas and have remained in contact over the years.
My contribution to the mission of Cross Roads is two-fold. First and foremost, I will be contacting local and state authorities to ensure Dennis' safety while he is on the highways and byways of America. Secondly, I will be contacting churches and civic organizations seeking help with any needs Dennis may have along the way; a place to sleep, a meal, or something as simple as offering encouragement for his mission.
Many of us desire to do something great for God; Dennis is putting that desire into action. The committment that he has for this journey, as demonstrated in his walk of Route 66, is something that takes a great deal of personal sacrifice as well as planning and I am certainly honored to be a part of it all. It is my prayer that God will honor Dennis in this journey as he seeks to honor Him.
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