Author Archives: Edith Eveon Brown

About Edith Eveon Brown

Edith Eveon Brown is an India author, freelance writer and publisher. As well as the owner/operator of Jeteak Press, a short and long-term freelance writing firm. She has authored and published an array of non-fiction and fiction books in electronic and printed versions under the following genres: how-to, literature, memoir, religion, self-help and travel which can be purchased from her online bookstore at: https://www.jeteakpress.com/book.store. Edith was a former motorcycle rider, and Coast Guard Commander of Flotilla 23-07 in Shady Side Maryland.

Air Force Academy Chapel

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After hearing about the U.S Air Force Academy’s Chapel from military friends and Coast Guard Auxiliary members for a few years, I decided to visit.

Image joining one of two slow moving lines of traffic formed at the entranceway to the grounds of the Air Force Academy. Finally, it was my turn to move up to a security guard.

“Good morning ma’am, may I see your driver’s licenses please? What is the purpose for your visit today? Do you have any weapons, knives or dangerous items on your person or in your vehicle? Is your vehicle trunk unlocked or locked? If locked, you provide your keys for it to be unlocked and inspected by the guard. Here are your keys ma’am enjoy your day.”

In compliance with posted speed limits. My vehicle seemed to be clunking along on wooden tires rather than rubber; I am never going to get to the chapel. What in the world is that on my left? I pulled my vehicle into the scenic view parking area for a better view and read the information board. What? No. That can’t be the chapel, I thought. However, the information board indicated it was.

I returned to my vehicle and followed direction signs to the chapel’s parking lot. Oh my…What an interesting structure. It looks like a shiny space vehicle or a redesigned merchant ship’s mast. However, the Air Force Academy attraction brochure claims the structure is aluminum, glass and steel which features 17 spires that reach 150 feet toward the sky; representing a group of fighter jets shooting up at the sky. Mmm…I don’t see that, although you might.

The Chapel is an all faith house of worship designed to meet the spiritual needs of all Cadets; Protestant, Catholic, Jewish and Buddhist including additional all-faith worship rooms to accommodate other faiths. Each chapel has its own entrance but the day of my visit; folks like me with bad knees could not access the upper-level because the elevator wasn’t working. The shell of the chapel and surrounding grounds cost $3.5 million to build. Pictures of the Catholic and Jewish Chapel follows:

Catholic Faith

Jewish Chapel

RV Headache-#2

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No one tells you to purchase a Sewer Hose Support to prevent your toilet and bathroom sink from clogging.

When my bathroom sink first clogged during the second week of owning my rv; I was upset. At that time, I didn’t know it was a precursor to additional bathroom problems to come. Anyhow, I made a quick trip to Wal-Mart to purchase Liquide-Plumer which I occasionally used when I was a home-owner. I poured the required amount in the sink through standing water and waited for thirty minutes. Nothing happened.

“This RV is new – why would the sink clog. I said to an empty residence”.

An hour later, the sink was still clogged. Since I was in the restroom, I decided to use the toilet. After pressing the foot-level, the sink made a belch sound and immediately emptied but the toilet was now clogged. A repeat press of the foot-level showed an increase of water in the toilet bowl. However, a quick search of my Thor Motor Coach (TMC) Warranty Ownership Guide didn’t provide an explanation or resolution for this problem.

As usual, I called Thor Motor Coach (TMC) Warranty Assistance and explained my bathroom clogging problems to a technician, who said, “Your Black Water tank sounds like it’s blocked. You need to pull your Black Level to clear your sewer hose.” Okay…. Where is the Black Level? “It is located on the passage side of your RV mid-ways between your entrance door and outdoor television compartment. You have to get on your knees to see the level; then you need to pull it towards you”. I did as directed and heard a powerful suction and flush sound which I informed the tech.

“Alright, your sink and toilet should be cleared now. Before I hang-up, I need you to go inside and check.” Upon entering the bathroom, I ran water in the sink and flushed the toilet which showed both (toilet and sink) was unclogged and worked properly.

A week later, the bathroom sink was clogged again. I flushed the toilet and the sink cleared but the toilet clogged. I went outside and pulled the Black Level. This time, I heard a mild suction and half flush sound. I called TMC to discuss my problems with a technician again. After telling him, I had already pulled the Black Level which made a mild suction and flush sound, but the toilet was still clogged. He said,” Sounds like your sewer hose is clogged. I need you to go-outside; look at your hose and tell me what you see.” I informed the tech that the hose had four snake-like bends in various areas.

“Okay, that’s your problem. You need to straighten out those bends and make sure your sewer hose is lying flat, as well as properly inserted in the sewer pipe for your parking site. Then, I want you to go inside and flush the toilet.” After following his directions, the toilet was unclogged. Meanwhile these practices of unclogging was becoming an ongoing recurrence. As a result, I spend a lot of time on my knees pulling the black level and straightening out bends in my Sewer Hose.

I am no technician, nor knowledgeable regarding the workings of sinks and toilets in RVs, but I knew there had to be a way to prevent or limit recurrence of these problems.

While visiting Camping World, a new Mobile Home, RV and Fifth-Wheel supply and repair shop which opened in May. I discussed my clogging issues with a service center employee who informed me, “You need to purchase a Sewer Hose Support to prevent your sewer hose from curling/bending. Otherwise, your toilet and/or sink will always clog and not flush/empty on a regular basis because your sewer hose is preventing free-flow to your sewer pipe.”

After making the sewer hose support purchase based on this employee’s suggestion, I returned to my rv to install this new contraption and discovered; not only was my sewer hose curled in numerous areas, it was heavy and required great effort to lift and route the hose onto predesigned grooves along the top of the sewer hose support. Currently, instead of pulling the black tank level and adjusting the sewer hose every five days; I am doing it every ten to fourteen-days now. However, I haven’t seen any other mobile-home, or 5th-wheel owners parked at my campground rearranging or adjusting their sewer hoses. Why, am I having this problem?

My dealership, salesperson, concierge nor TMC technician told me that I needed to purchase a Sewer Hose Support to properly permit the free-flow-emptying of my Black or Gray Tanks to prevent toilet and sink clogging.

RVing-#1

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On March 15, I stated “RVing offers a headache free life-style.” Ha…I take that back! What I should have said is, life-style as a full-time RVer offers a whole new level of headaches and frustrations. Although, I still believe expenses as an RVer opposed to that of home owners are cheaper.

Since parking my rv at its original campground, I’ve been forced to deal with everything my dealership, concierge and warranty customer service never told me.

For instance, I noticed my rv was out of balance which was evident because once the sink’s stopper was removed; a puddle of water remained in the left corner of the sink. Since I was told the truck had to be running prior to dropping or retracting its jacks, I followed this recommendation.

Then returned to the control panel and pressed the electronic leveling control for auto leveling which is supposed to drop all four jacks. Upon going outside to check; two out of four jacks were down. I returned to the control panel to retract these two-jacks to enable the reset process and try again. This time one jack dropped.

I called the Warranty Customer Support Department. The telephone tech had me redo what I had previously tried on my own. After several attempts. “Your system needs to be recalibrated”, he said. What…I have no idea what you are talking about, I replied. No problem, I’ll send a copy of our LCI Level-Up Motorhome Leveling Owner’s Manual to your email address. However, if you can’t reset it using those instructions. You should contact Schaaps RV’s which is the nearest repair company to you in Sioux Falls.

After reviewing the senseless nineteen-page owner’s manual dated (2013-Present) which was written for a technician. I called Schaaps Rv’ s Service Center and informed by a recording, that Schaaps was under new management and closed due to this change. In the future, the company will reopen as Camping World.

A computer Google for Electronic Technicians in Sioux Falls provided one electronic company which I called to explain my dilemma. I discovered this company only worked on electronic car systems. However, the owner knew a guy who owned a mobile tech service and gave me that person’s name and telephone number, whom I called.

Again, I talked to a stranger regarding my rv jack problems and stressed I have owned my rv for ten days. He asked, where do you live? In Sioux Falls, I replied. What a bummer…You won’t find anyone in Sioux Falls to make a recalibration adjustment to your rv jacks.

In fact, I used to own a mobile tech service that repaired problems like yours. But, I sold my business because there wasn’t enough business for my services in Sioux Fall. The guy that brought my business; moved the business and its name to another location which is an hour and forty-five minutes from Sioux Falls. If you’ll give me your name and telephone number, I’ll have him call you.

My telephone rung about ten minutes later. A male said, “Hello Ms. Brown…I was told about your jack problems. Although, I can do the job…today isn’t a good day because I’ve got, ten more service calls to take care of before my day is done. But, I can plan to see you in the morning around 10:00am if that time works for you,” he said. It does work for me, I replied. Okay…. Please give me your address. Alright Ms. Brown, I will see you in the morning. The technician arrived at 9:45, recalibrated my jacks and charged me $188.10. However, I was prepared to pay much more because of the distance he travelled.

My telephone rung about ten minutes later. A male voice said, Hello Ms. Brown…I was told about your jack problems. Although, I can do the job…today isn’t a good day because I’ve got, ten more service calls to take care of before my day is done. But, I can plan to see you in the morning around 10:00am if that time works for you, he said. It does work for me, I replied. Okay…. Please give me your address. Alright Ms. Brown, I will see you in the morning. The technician arrived at 9:45, recalibrated my jacks and charged me $188.10. However, I was prepared to pay much more because of the distance he travelled.

*To Be Continued*

Fire Baptism into RVing-Day-8

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Upon leaving the Kansas Drive hotel, I ran into strong winds blowing across various areas on the highway which was a little unnerving. Suddenly, it was hard to keep my RV in its lane without man-handling the steering wheel. At first, I thought I might have blown a tire. Then I recalled Jordan, my salesman and driving trainer say, “RV’s are top-heavy and will sway and/or shake due to high winds.” It wasn’t long before I noticed drivers of 18-wheelers also swaying in and out of their lanes. Therefore, I moved over to the right-lane and slowed my speed to 65 miles an hour rather than the posted 70 and 80-mile speed limits.

Once I arrived in Sioux Falls after a two-day drive. I pulled onto the shoulder of the highway to activate driving directions to Tower Campground on my GPS. I had contacted this campground prior to leaving My Place Hotel. At that time, I was told vacant sites were available to accommodate my RV. I arrived at the Campground’s Office before they closed for the evening.

After check-in. Josh, an employee led me to my assigned space which was a shared site, rather than a pull-through which was provided while living on the grounds of the MHSRV dealership. By the way, shared site users back-in from different roadways which allow RV’s and Fifth-Wheel vehicles to park back-to-back at his/her designated utility hookup (i.e. electricity, water and sewage station).

As I stood looking at the rear of an RV already sharing my space. “Wow…Backing up a 30-Foot RV wasn’t a part of my forty-five-minute driving training. Further, I’ve owned this RV for 4-days; I can’t back into that space. You’re going to have to do it.” Okay. No problem Josh, replied. He got into the driver’s seat; pulled forward a little and swung the front-end of my RV to the left and backed into my assigned space like he was driving a Beagle vehicle. “Mmm…I’ve got to learn how to do that!” You will, he replied.

Now, let’s get this puppy hooked up to your services. Did a MHSRV Technician show you how to properly hookup utilities? Nope, I replied. “That’s okay, I’ll show you how-to do it now. However, the dealership should have given you a water and sewer hose which I need to begin your hookup.” Those items are in my garage. I’ll get them. “Now that’s sweet! A garage in your RV,” he replied. Alright, this is what the dealer gave me.

“Shoot. This RV Sewer Hose is too short. Further, they didn’t even give you clamps, hose coupler, adaptor or drain seal. Okay, we need to buy some additional parts for the sewer hookup tomorrow. Where’s your exterior electric cord and your city water connector?” The electric cord is in this compartment and the city water connector is here; prior to approaching the driver’s door. “Great. Look…There’s a circle in your electric compartment which pushes out for you to pull-out as much cord as you need to access electricity. But, remember. When you unplug and put your cord back into this compartment don’t forget to close the circle to ensure your cord does not fall out while driving on the highway.” Alright, I replied.

The next task is to connect you to this faucet which is your private city water connection by using your water hose. First, make sure there are rubber-washers in both ends of your water hose which prevents leaks from either connector. Now, screw one end to the faucet; the other end to your RV’s connector and push-down on the faucet’s handler. Good job! No leaks from either end of the hose. So, you’re now connected to city water. No need to refill or use your fresh water tank as long as you’re parked here.

The next morning, an older man and Josh knocked on my door. “Good Morning Mrs. Brown. I am Bill, the Property Manager. I understand Josh couldn’t finish your hookup because you need additional parts for the sewer hookup. We’re here to help you get hooked up. Let me see the sewer hose the dealer gave you, please.” Here it is, I replied. “Yeah, that’s way too short. I’ll go buy what you need and you can pay me when I return.” Okay, that works for me because even if you told me what I needed; the items I buy might still be wrong since I wouldn’t know what the items should look like, I replied.

Knock, knock. “Mrs. Brown if you’re ready, we can finish your sewer hookup now. Also, here is the receipt for the items I brought and they look like this. An additional sewer hose, clamps, internal hose coupler, hose adapter and drain seal which cost $16.25. Thank you, Bill. Let me pay you, then I’ll be ready.

Alright the first thing to remember is this: RV and Fifth-Wheel Campgrounds have different utility station setups. So, it’s not uncommon to need additional sewer hose(s) to reach your assigned station which is the problem here. We use an internal hose coupler to join both hoses together and clamps to make sure the hoses don’t come apart. Then insert this hose adapter to one end of the sewer hose which connects this hose to your RV’s Black and Gray Tanks; the black tank is waste from your toilet and the gray tank is water from your sinks. Now, we connect this hose end to the drain seal which connects to the sewer/dump pipe. I’ll like to add one more thing: To keep the sewer hose from recoiling or bending – we put boards like this under the hose and a few bricks across the top to keep the hose straight. You can keep these boards and bricks if you like, Jose said. Thank you. I’ll keep them.

Oh yeah, I almost forgot. Since you were interested in a longer space to park your RV so you can use your deck and ramp to load/unload your motorcycle. Those sites across the road will be open in mid-April once we finish using them to pile snow. Therefore, if you plan to stay a while longer and want to change sites; Josh or I, will be available to supervise your first task of unhooking your utilities; retracting your jacks and slide for the move to your new site. Then, guide you through the backup process into your new space and re-hook your utility services, Bill said. Great. “I’ve been eyeing Site 424 over there and would like you to block it for me in advance.” Consider it done, Bill replied.

Based on my experiences: I find the staff at Tower Campground to be friendly, helpful and professional. The grounds were well-maintained and consist of the following: 118 RV and Fifth-Wheel Sites, full RV hookup (i.e. sewer, city water, electricity and television cable); a laundromat, security cameras, concrete, crushed rock parking pads, fire pits, picnic tables and a bathhouse for men and women. As well as, tent sites, cabins, winter storage for boats, RV’s and trailers. Currently, my RV site cost $595 per month which includes utility services; opposed to my past home mortgage note of $1,484.15 plus utilities that fluctuated monthly.

Not forgetting, the maintenance of my lawn, hedges and roof including power-washing of house siding, the deck and driveways. However, houses are wonderful investments when you are raising children. But once your children are grown and gone due to independence, marriage or death, the home you enjoyed becomes an endless money pit. This is when RVing offers a headache free life-style.

The Purchase & Fire Baptism into RVing-Day 7

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Upon checking out of My Place Hotel, a taxi dropped me at Sioux Falls Regional Airport for a 7am flight to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. Upon my airport arrival I was met by transport services, who delivered me to Jordan, my salesman at Motor Home Specialist (MHSRV) in Alvarado Texas.

I was seriously overwhelmed as I looked at the MHSRV’s acres upon acres of the numerous brands, styles, sizes of RV’s which were way below Maryland and Virginia’s prices. Based on my observation and the low RV price I paid. I conclude, MHSRV is the largest and cheapest RV dealership in the world. Therefore, if your dream is to own a RV. I suggest you decide upon a brand, check dealerships in or near your residence and obtain a precise sales price for your selection. Then visit mhsrv.com website, select your desired brand and request a precise sales price which you will find to be extremely lower than other RV Dealerships.

After completing paperwork for the RV, I selected at MHSRV.COM. I was escorted to my RV which was setup for my immediate occupancy and hands-on-training in a special location on the grounds of the dealership. At this point, I was met by a personal RV Technician, who walked me through the operation of a remote panel which controlled an array of interior and exterior RV components. As well as, instructions on how-to setup three beds to sleep 6-people; setup the patio, operating 3-televisions; releasing 2-exterior awnings, dropping the ramp to load my motorcycle and more.

All of this took place on my first day which I considered an information overload. After meeting my personal concierge, whom I report RV malfunctions or problems needing to be addressed prior to my departure for home. Later, my salesman returned to provide me with a loaner vehicle to go purchase food and household equipment to help make the RV home.

My second day: As occupancy in my RV and on the dealership grounds was a verbal repeat and hands-on rv training. Further, identifiable problems were repaired such as, the cable for the ramp, caulking around shower wall and repair of an exit door which was hard to open, etc.

The third day: I learned how-to prepare my rv for travel which involved retracting the slider and jacks; disconnecting and storing the electric cord, ensuring drawers and cabinets are secured; stove top cover is down and secured, and fallible items are packed or laid down. All right Edith, everything looks great. It’s time for your driving test, Jordan said.

“No Jordan…I can’t do it. I’ve never driven anything that’s 30-foot long and 29-high. At this moment, I think we should arrange for this rv to be towed to Sioux Falls.”
Edith, you came here on a one-way ticket; you drive a Ford pick-up truck and a Harley-Davidson motorcycle which means you can drive anything with a little practice. I have confidence in you, Edith. You can do this! This is a Ford just like the one you drive every day. However, if you aren’t ready to drive solo after trying today. Although, I don’t see any reason why you won’t be. But if not, we will return and park in dry-dock and try again tomorrow. I don’t want you to leave if you aren’t ready, he said.

After forty-five minutes of driver training and passing a short driver’s test, I was ready to leave Alvarado Texas and drive my newly purchased 2018 Thor Outlaw 29h, Class C Toy Hauler to Sioux Falls which will be a two-day journey. At this point, Jordan relinquished his passenger seat and said, “Edith be careful. Call me when you arrive in Sioux Falls.” Thank you, I will, I replied.

I exited the largest RV dealership in the world with one thought on my mind: I can and will do this. There is no other option. Further, no one on a white horse is going to rescue me!

After driving on the highway for a while, I become comfortable merging to and from exits off and onto the highway. As well as passing other vehicles. My next obstacle was to dependent upon my mirrors, and the final was to find the largest toll booth lane to enter; pay the required toll and exit without tearing off my left mirror. Although, I was driving a brand-new RV. Prior to dark I checked into the Kansas Star Drive hotel in Mulvane KS which cost $123.56 for the night.

*** To be continued ***

Journey to A New Life – Day 6

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The next morning the van line’s driver called to inform me, “Good morning Mrs. Brown, my name is Craig; I’m thirty minutes from your delivery destination. I’ll see you soon.” I am on my way, I replied.

Once my items including motorcycle was placed in storage, I registered for an extended stay at My Place Hotel beginning February 28 to March 11 which cost $855.72. After getting to know the front-desk and housekeeping staff, I hated to leave. This hotel had the feel, look and conveniences of home. But it was time to move on. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have a place to call my own.

This article ends my 4-Day drive from Upper Marlboro Maryland to my new home State, Sioux Falls South Dakota.

***The next series: The Purchase and Fire Baptism into RVing.***

Journey to A New Life – Day 5

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Since I had already located and made the $15.00 deposit on a climate controlled 3-room storage space at LockIt & LeaveIt Storage prior to leaving Maryland. Upon my arrival in Sioux Falls, I made a one-night reservation at the GuestHouse which was near the storage facility to wait for North American Van Lines to deliver my household effects and Harley-Davidson Trike. The GuestHouse cost $69.32. Further, during my one-day wait for the movers, I used google to search for a hotel with a full kitchen which was My Place Hotel-Sioux Falls.

** To Be Continued **

Journey to A New Life – Day 4

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I met the friendliest people including the desk clerk upon entering Super 8 Sparta hotel in Wisconsin. I was too tired to converse long but I enjoyed brief conversations as I checked-in. The only other action I remember was taking a shower and going to bed. Gosh, this Super8 certainly have great beds! I said as my eyes opened… The price of my one night stay was $78.27.

I rarely take advantage of buffet breakfasts at hotels because I want to start my travels ahead of other travelers. However, upon receiving my checkout receipt from the morning clerk. I noticed the following note, “You made my day by radiating a calm strength – May you find your peace and enjoy your adventure!! Thank you, Jason of Super 8 Sparta.” When someone takes the time to leave you a heart-felt note; it humbles you.

Therefore, I hit the road knowing this was my last day of driving, but the start of a new life in a city I had never lived. As I continued this journey my mind focused on the new challenges I will conquer, new experiences I will gain, new friends and associates I will meet. As well as, getting to meet and know J&L Harley-Davidson’s employees and chapter members.

When you travel the highway as much as I do, you are always looking out for troopers in marked and unmarked vehicles. However, South Dakota Troopers don’t drive normal-looking patrol vehicles. Instead, theirs are dirty/muddy like area residents. Some even have carrying racks on the roof. Anyhow, I wasn’t speeding at that point. I was cruising between 70 and 75 miles an hour. Although, the speed limit had been 80 miles an hour; it had dropped to 70.

I was in the hammer-lane leading a pack. Everything was great because I had crossed the South Dakota Stateline; rocking my head and singing with the radio. At this point, I had driven two miles on the South Dakota freeway when a small voice said, “Look to your right.” I did and discovered a State Trooper riding silently beside me. Once he noticed I was looking at him; he put on his blue flashers and I obediently moved over in front of his vehicle as he led me to the shoulder. I can’t even remember the last time I was pulled-over by a trooper or cop.

“Good morning ma’am.” Good morning sir. Since I just arrived in your beautiful State; what did I do wrong, or are you my welcome committee, I replied. “Laughter…you were going a little fast. You appear to be all packed-up where you headed?” I am permanently moving to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, I replied. “That’s a nice area. However, since I stopped you I need to create a report; I need your driver’s license and vehicle registration. Do you have any tickets, or unfavorable items on your record?” No sir, I replied.

Upon his return. “Okay here are your credentials; you have a clean driver’s record which is always good. I’ve issued you a warning for going over the posted speed; there’s nothing you need to do, and it doesn’t cause any points post to your driving record.” But sir, in Maryland, we can go at least 5 miles over the posted speed without getting a ticket or warning. “Yeah, most States have certain allowances when it comes to posted speed. But, here in South Dakota we take speeding seriously because of our unpredictable weather. Therefore, if the speed is 70 or 80 that’s your precise speed limit unless you choose 65 or below; then you should travel in the right-lane. I like your truck. In fact, I had one just like it although an older model. I had to get rid of it because my garage was full of stuff. All right. Welcome to South Dakota and be safe.” Thank you, officer, I replied.

*** To be continued ***

Journey to A New Life – Day 3

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When I returned to the NTB Tires at 8:30am six people had already checked-in to have tires rotated, tune-ups, slow leaks in tired plugged, etc.

Mark entered the shop. Good morning folks. Edith what are you doing here? The Service Engine Soon light came on when I started my truck to leave here last night. Therefore, I decided not to leave this area until the problem was identified and resolved, I replied. “I’m so sorry. I figured you were at least 3-hours closer to Indiana by now. Okay, I’ll have the mechanic that serviced your vehicle last night check it out once a bay opens up.”

An hour later, a young mechanic approached. “Mrs. Brown, my name is Jacob; may I please have the keys to your truck?” Sure, I replied. Thirty minutes later, Jacob returned. Mrs. Brown here are your keys. “I am sorry, I forgot to reset the senor last night. It’s done now, and you shouldn’t experience any other problems. It was nice meeting you and I hope you have a safe trip.” Thank you, Jacob.

I waved at Mark as I prepared to leave. Please hold on a second, he said to a telephone customer. “Edith, it’s been a pleasure to meet you. I am sorry we held you up this morning. But, I am glad you decided to see us prior to leaving town. Be safe out there,” he said. Thank you, Mark, it was nice meeting and doing business with you. Bye.

At 10:30am, I left the city of Monroeville behind and pressed rubber to metal to cross the Indiana Stateline before dark. Other than paying tolls and joking with booth workers about having to withdraw money from my bank account just to pay tolls because toll-booth are constructed a mile apart, or the only conversation I have had today is with him/her, or if I had known I had to be godmother to toll booths, I would have chosen a different route to Sioux Falls SD. “Yes, you could have. But you would have been driving for six instead of four-days,” all would reply. Normally, we would share a laugh. “Be safe,” they’ll say. Thanks, I will.

Upon crossing the Indiana Stateline, I took the Fremont, IN exit and made Comfort Inn my home for the night which cost $98.78.

** To Be Continued **

Journey to A New Life – Day 2

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The cost of my one-night stay at Executive Inn & Suite Hotels was $79.00. After paying my bill and exiting the hotel’s lobby, I paused to take a deep breath of morning air and remembered it too had changed. Quickly, I reminisced and yearned for the glory days of Upper Marlboro’s era that drew me here.

In 1987, there were cows and horses in pastures; tobacco fields with lustrous green foliage; Ace Hardware and Lumber 21; the Tobacco Auction House and trucks parked in line on the shoulder of Highway 301-South (Aka Crain Highway) waiting for the auction house to open to sell their products to patrons. Bye the way, Highway 301 was a one-lane highway which enabled residents and travelers to drive north or south with little to no traffic. The morning air was always crisp and fresh with a hint of sweet smelling tobacco.

The entrance to the small downtown area was Main Street which consisted of two banks, a Seven11, a few sit-down restaurants, a jewelry shop, bridal shop, the post office and other small businesses. Occasionally, I had eaten at a few downtown establishments until I found out about Mrs. K’s, “The best kept secret in Prince George’s County” which is owned by two minority sisters.

The restaurant and its motel are located on Highway 301 a few yards from the rail-road track. It’s a quaint friendly restaurant with old-fashion booth-seats and a tall wooden ordering and payment counter. The cooks are Afro-Americans, who were taught to cook by their grandmothers, mothers and other sources. I have to say, “you can’t truly recall or appreciate the meals you ate as a child until you visit Mrs. K’s.” This restaurant serves numerous types of breakfast meals all-day. As well as, a variety of soul food meals such as baked or fried chicken; fried or baked fish, pig feet, lamb, barbeque meats, chitterlings, ox tails, liver, turkey, collard greens, black eye-peas, macaroni and cheese, cabbage, green beans and soulful desserts to name a few.

As I started my truck and did a half-circle to exit Executive Inn & Suite Hotel’s parking lot, I laughed and said, “Boys I am homeless for the first-time in my life, but it doesn’t matter because I am free from the shackles that held me down.”

I thought there might be a few tears upon leaving Maryland. After all, it was the city I called home upon being hired by USDA, Department of Agriculture and transferring to Washington, DC. At that time, I brought and made a $78,000 fixer-upper into a real home for myself and children.

Nope. I had no tears, no regrets or misgivings. I felt peace wash over me once I crossed the Pennsylvania State-Line which was confirmed by a small voice that said, “You have done all you can for others – it’s time you enjoy the rest of your life doing things that’s special to you!”

My GPS indicated the fastest route to my destination was I-80W and I-90W; both include tolls before accessing State-Lines and Service Plazas along my 1,283-mile route; roughly a 20-hour trip. So, I adjusted my seat, stuck the Bluetooth earpiece in my ear, turned the radio up and settled-in for the drive.

I paid a toll to access my first turnpike with was at the Pennsylvania State Line and it appeared to be endless. As I continued to paid tolls every time I needed to get off to gas-up or do the typical highway travel stuff at Service Plazas. Rather than be pissed about the numerous tolls booth I encountered, I focused on the fact that every mile I drove brought me closer to the next Stateline and my destination.

I was rolling a long quite nicely towards the Indiana State Line. When Joker’s truck dashboard lite-up like a Christmas Tree with all kinds of stuff happening. Stuff I had never seen on my 2004 F-150 Ford Super Crew which I had sold, or his 2001 F-150 Extended Cab which I had been driving for the last 3-years.

The dashboard displayed a battery symbol. Above and below this symbol were half-moon circles with a red arrow in both that swayed occasionally but stayed in the middle of these circles; not resting on hot or cool. Then, a funny looking square appeared which flashed “fuel door lock alert.” Followed by a bright red-light which flashed “theft, theft, theft.” Keith what the hell is going on with your truck, I said; to his and Cloud’s cremains riding in urns on the passenger floor mate.

At this point, I should mention. I always travel in the hammer-line as a pack leader. However, I had to begrudgingly abandon that position after signaling my desire to pull over to the right-shoulder on a bridge to call AAA Roadside Emergency Services. By the time I reached the bridge’s shoulder, the dashboard lights and warnings had stopped.

Though it was tempting to return to the highway, I made the AAA call instead. An agent answered; asked for my membership number and if I was in a safe location? Heck no! I believe I am in the second worst place of my life, I replied. “I’m sorry to hear that. What happened and how can I help?” You know, I’ve heard about drivers being stranded on turnpikes, but never thought it would happen to me. However, here I sit with crazy folks zipping pass like they’ve lost their minds. Therefore, I need a tow to the nearest repair shop.

Okay lets’ get you some help. I need to know your exact location for the tow-truck driver. What? I already told you, I’m on the Pennsylvania Turnpike. “Yes, you did. But I need to know your physical location.” I have no idea other then what I’ve already told you. Don’t your company have a system to locate me based on my phone number? Laughing… I wish. Okay. Do me a favor and look at your GSP; tell me what its showing near you such as lakes, streets or highway markers. The dashboard begins flashing again: alert, alert, alert and everything died including my cell phone.

While contemplating which side of a dirt-mountain sound barrier might be easier to climb to get help; a vehicle with flashing lights pulled up behind me and the guy got out and walked to my passenger window. “Good afternoon Miss. Are you okay?” No. My truck broke-down and I don’t know what’s wrong with it, I replied. “No worries, I’ll call a towing service and remain parked behind you until a truck arrives.” Thank you, I replied.

During sporadic mirror checks to ensure the flashing light truck was still behind me. I observed a large truck with big flashing lights speeding towards us. I wasn’t sure if he/she was going to hit the truck behind me which would in turn hit me. Instead, the truck passed and swung in ahead of me. A man got out and walked towards my driver side. “Hello Miss. What seems to be the problem?” I think my battery might be dead because the dashboard is black, and my cell phone which was plugged into the power source is dead. “If everything is dead on your dashboard, as well as the power source, it’s probably your alternator. You can wait in my truck while I load your truck on the flatbed.”

Once the tow driver joined me inside his truck. Did AAA send you? “No, the guy parked behind you called my company. He’s one of many toll-road workers whose job is to keep the turnpike free of stranded motorist and accidents. Therefore, they usually call the nearest tow-company for assistance is how you got me.”

Well, where is the nearest repair shop from this point? “It’s Saturday, so NTB in Monroeville Pennsylvania is the only repair shop opened today. The manager, Mark is a good guy and is often able to get long-distance travelers back on the highway when problems occur on a Saturday or Sunday. Otherwise, there’s a lot of hotels across the street from NTB, so I can drop your vehicle at the shop; you do the paperwork, then I’ll take you to the hotel of your choice for the night. Unless you prefer to hangout in the shop until your truck is repaired.

Suddenly, we pulled off the turnpike and sped down a half-finished dirt road. When we stopped in front of a six-foot closed gate. “Where the hell are we going?” I asked. The driver laughed…This is one of many backroads that enable tow-drivers to quickly get on and off turnpikes to remove wreckage and stranded motorist fast. Now, do I have your permission to get out and enter my code to open this gate?” Sure, I replied. Once the gate opened, we drove through a gravel-pit where vacant dump trucks were also parked. At the next gate, the driver got out and entered his code to exit which took us to a toll booth where we paid to gain access to the Southside of the turnpike heading for the Monroeville exist.

Upon arrive at Mark’s NTB shop; the tow driver introduced me and stated, “she’s a long-distance traveler and I think she has an alternation problem. Mrs. Brown, what is your preference: Are you staying here at the shop, or want me to take you to a hotel?” I think, I will wait here, I replied. All right, once you’re rolling again I hope you have a pleasant journey. Thank you, bye, I replied.

Mrs. Brown, I need you over here to check-in, the guy behind the counter said. Once check-in was completed, I positioned myself at a tall table with stools to observe incoming and waiting customers, as well as Mark and his mechanics. I quickly found Mark to be as my tow-driver had described him; a good person, very friendly and worked as hard as his mechanics to get residents and travelers serviced and, on their way, as quick as possible. “Hey Edith, I’ll be back. I found an alternator for your truck. I’m going to get it.” Great, I’ll see you when you return, I replied.

I guess customers thought I was a Greeter. They smiled and spoke upon entering the shop. Once they checked-in and discussed their problems; they usually joined me where we chatted like old friends. Some were highway travelers like me, but most were residents. I noticed customers visiting this shop were extremely friendly and quick to share information. For instance, many quietly told me: Although this shop closes at 8pm. If you get here before the Open Light goes out, or you tap on the window shortly thereafter. Mark and his mechanics will fix your vehicle unless it’s a major job. This practice is the same even on Sundays.

My truck was ready at 8:30pm. But now-days I don’t drive at night. Therefore, I had decided earlier that the Days Inn across the street would been home for tonight. Immediately upon starting my truck to cross Mossiden Blvd, the Service Engine Soon light came on; I drove across the highway knowing I had to see Mark prior to leaving town because this truck’s sensor had to be reset which is required after during work under the hood of F-150 Ford Pickup trucks I have owned. One-night stay at Days Inn cost $76.89.

** To Be Continued **