Yesterday I walked to Carlyle, the Clinton County seat. It was very overcast, but never did rain. Halfway between Breese & Carlyle, I stopped at a Caseys convenient store. The 3 women inside asked many questions, and couldn't believe I was pushing that HUGE CART! I told them what I was doing and gave them some flyers. They said that there was a fresh pizza baking in the oven and that it would be ready in a few minutes. They told me to help myself to some pop, and when the pizza was ready they gave me a large piece. They wouldn't let me pay for either, and even offered me some more. I assured them the huge piece they gave me was plenty. They were very kind and generous. Soon after that someone from the newspaper and someone from the radio station met me on the road. Gwen, from the Olney Chamber of Commerce (about 70 miles E. of here) has been following my trip and is making connections for me as I march across Illinois. She had contacted the paper and radio and told them where I was. She also contacted the Carlyle Chamber and they comped a night for me at the Carlyle Motel. The town of Carlyle, population 4,000, is home to Carlyle Lake. The Kaskaskia River, all-important to the community, was dammed in the 1960's, making it the largest man-made lake in Illinois. The lake is 5 miles wide, 18 miles long and covers 26,000 acres. You can camp, fish, hunt, hike, sail, boat and play in the sand on the lakes beaches. Carlyle is also home to the Clinton County Historical Society Museum and also the General Dean bridge. The bridge, on the National Register of historic places, is the only suspension bridge of its kind in Illinois. Opened in 1860, it was a toll bridge to all except county residents. In 1953 it was re-dedicated in honor of Major General William F. Dean, a native of Carlyle and decorated Korean War Veteran. Y'all take care and have a great day! KB