Google Jan 27, 2012 at 13:11

Google Buzz Nov 02, 2010 at 12:30 Google rarely contacts Gmail users via email, but we are making an exception to let you know that we've reached a settlement in a lawsuit regarding Google Buzz (http://buzz.google.com), a service we launched within Gmail in February of this year. Shortly after its launch, we heard from a number of people who were concerned about privacy. In addition, we were sued by a group of Buzz users and recently reached a settlement in this case. The settlement acknowledges that we quickly changed the service to address users' concerns. In addition, Google has committed $8.5 million to an independent fund, most of which will support organizations promoting privacy education and policy on the web. We will also do more to educate people about privacy controls specific to Buzz. The more people know about privacy online, the better their online experience will be. Just to be clear, this is not a settlement in which people who use Gmail can file to receive compensation. Everyone in the U.S. who uses Gmail is included in the settlement, unless you personally decide to opt out before December 6, 2010. The Court will consider final approval of the agreement on January 31, 2011. This email is a summary of the settlement, and more detailed information and instructions approved by the court, including instructions about how to opt out, object, or comment, are available at http://www.BuzzClassAction.com. -------------------------------------------------------------------- This mandatory announcement was sent to all Gmail users in the United States as part of a legal settlement and was authorized by the United States District Court for the Northern District of California. Google Inc. | 1600 Amphitheatre Parkway | Mountain View, CA 94043

John Lose May 22, 2010 at 21:18 Hey everyone! Got engaged to my wonderful FIANCE today! WAAHHHOOOOOO!

8563130234@vzwpix.com Mar 24, 2010 at 21:02 Keeping everyone up to date - we are currently working on writing book detailing our rowing experience during Rock the Boat for Autism 2009. The book will highlight our venture while drawing parallels to the daily struggles of those families that do battle with autism everyday. Contact us to pre-order your copy today! This message was sent using the Picture and Video Messaging service from Verizon Wireless! To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture. Note: To play video messages sent to email, QuickTimeŽ 6.5 or higher is required.

John Lose Oct 06, 2009 at 16:09 Chocolate Milk: Its whats for dinner

8563130234@vzwpix.com Oct 2, 2009 at 22:23 We are at St. Joes University in Philadelphia for the opening ceremony of the Kinney Center for Autism. Very unique center. We had the honor of holding the ribbon with Dan Marino as it was cut. This message has been sent using the picture and Video service from Verizon Wireless! To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture. Note: To play video messages sent to email, Quicktime@ 6.5 or higher is required.

5163613865@vtext.com Sep 24, 2009 at 14:48 Autism walk saturday 9/26 at citizens bank park in philly!

John Lose Aug 13, 2009 at 12:11 The boys are back in sea isle today to discuss future plans

Ryan Meyer Aug 3, 2009 at 20:08 This post comes a little late, but is important nonetheless. We would like to thank, very much, Pete Ciarocchi of Chickie's & Pete's for his generous donation, sponsorship, and support along the way. The adnenture may be over (for now anyway), but the acknowledgements are what's important.

5163613865@vtext.com Aug 02, 2009 at 15:26 i am nowhere near a boat right now, weird

5163613865@vtext.com Aug 02, 2009 at 10:19 Can't believe we are home!!! Thanks LaCosta and everybody on the beach who supported us along the way.

maher.larry@gmail.com Aug 2, 2009 at 15:23 Our trip has finally come to end end. This journey never would have been possible without our supporters, family and friends, the amazing people we met on our journey, and countless others we do not even realize that helped us. A million thanks to everyone for your tremendous amount of help. We hope that our message of autism awareness and journey was able to reach, inform, and inspire others, and help them realize that they can also make a difference. Thank you again and god bless. Keep rockin everyone! Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Ryan Meyer Aug 1, 2009 at 23:23 Thank you to Sea Isle City Beach Patrol for all their help and assistance today. They allowed us to take our time, despite it being a busy, crowded Sarurday in August. Thanks to everyone that showed up today, both on the beach and at the arrival party. The welcoming was more than any of us could have ever imagined or hoped. Rock the Boat has come a long way, both figuratively and literally, and it couldn't have happened without each and every one of you. Thank you all, from the bottom of our hearts.

Ryan Meyer Aug 1, 2009 at 09:40 We had a great day yesterday rowing past the beaches of South Jersey. Once again, thanks go out to the Wildwood Crest Beach Patrol for not only letting us dock up two nights ago but for helping us launch yesterday morning. Thank you to the Wildwood Beach Patrol for their reception. It felt good to be back on familiar ground with familiar faces. We would like to thank the North Wildwood Beach Patrol for not only letting us pull in for a stop, but also for making a generous donation to the Rock the Boat fund. Thank you to the Stone Harbor Beach Patrol for letting us beach the boats for a break and for hanging out with us, after buying us lunch. A big thank you to the Avalon Beach Patrol for not only letting us beach the boats for the night, but for helping us bring them in, especially the one filled with water. Finally, thanks go out to Geno and Gary Barbera of Barbera's Dodgeland and Chryslerland in Philadelphia for putting us on their rolling, digital sign on Roosevelt Boulevard. We appreciate all of it. Today is the final piece to our puzzle, but we can only hope everyone out there continues to support efforts in raising autism awareness.

James O'Donoghue Jul 31, 2009 at 13:41 So excited to be in NJ! Rowing from Wildwood Crest to North Avalon today. We plan to leave from the crest at 11am. Can't wait to see everybody at LaCosta on Saturday

Ryan Meyer Jul 31, 2009 at 09:26 Yesterday was a good day. Crossing the Delaware took a little longer than expected (thanks to huge swells turning into chop and a strong West wind), but we made it, and then some. Thanks go out to Tom Palmer, a former North Wildwood Beach Patrol Captain, for welcoming us back home, in person, with bagpipes. Tom also had placed a call to the Cape May/Lewes Ferry early yesterday morning, and,on one of it's crossings, it went out of it's way to announce our voyage to the people on board and drove up next to us as they cheered us on. Thanks also to the Cape May Point Beach Patrol for allowing us to pull up on the beach for a break, helping us with the boats, and hooking us up with some shirts. We would also like to thank the men and women of the Cape May Beach Patrol. Announcing our journey to their beachgoers over the loudspeakers was enough, but they went even further with a generous Rock the Boat donation and lunch for the Rock the Boat crew. We appreciate it all. Lastly, we made it just up to Wildwood Crest yesterday, and even though the patrol was technically done for the day, they stuck around long enough to welcome us and help us put the boats away, safely, for the night. Thank you to all of the above-mentioned people and places, and to all the guards and beachgoers who clapped, yelled, and congratulated us as we passed. Being so close to the end and still gaining support means a lot to all of us.

John Lose Jul 30, 2009 at 18:50 The garden state never tasted so good. Looks like we will have all 5 of us in the boats from now on with the van broken down in DE.

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jul 30, 2009 at 21:15 The boats made it through the Delaware Bay. Sadly, the same can not be said about the van. It would not start and is still parked at the Lewes Harbour Marina. But the trip must go on. After a group decision, i reluctantly left the van to take a taxi to the Cape May - Lewes Ferry. (goodbye van! You served us well) I will join the guys in cape may at 7 to celebrate being one step closer to our goal. This trip has been grueling. Our bodies have taken a beating. And while the finish line is so close, i think all of wish it wasnt over. We have been met with so much generosity, we have met some outstanding ppl doing great work (john pike from surfers healing, etc). We made 3 goals: raise awareness for autism, raise $250K for Autism Society of America, and to make this extreme row happen. Because of all the actice involvement and support from ppl like you, all 3 of these goals are becoming realities. Thank you so much. It is you, yes YOU, that made this happen. God bless you all.

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jul 30, 2009 at 13:28 I am in the van today. The guys are several hours into their row across the delaware bay. They originally planned to land on the beach of Cape May, NJ and meet me (and the van) there. However, the van is not starting so im still in Lewes, DE. Im praying for the guys, and i can not wait to meet up with them to celebrate the passing of the Delaware Bay. I want to say thanks to Ryan's Aunt Kathy for helping us out big time on several occasions throughout this trip. Cant thank you enough for your generosity! Mom & dad, i will be home soon! This message was sent using the Picture and Video Messaging service from Verizon Wireless! To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture. Note: To play video messages sent to email, QuickTimeŽ 6.5 or higher is required.

5163613865@vtext.com Jul 30, 2009 at 04:13 Leaving Lewes DE at 745am with an ETA into Cape May at 1115am. Exciting beyond words!

James O'Donoghue Jul 30, 2009 at 11:12 Huge thanks to Ryan's Aunt Kathy for generously providing us with great hotel rooms and treating us to our last dinner with the 5 of us. Will be in NJ by this afternoon

Ryan Meyer Jul 29, 2009 at 22:57 Thank you to Capt. Joe at the Lewes Harbour Marina for his helpful information earlier today and for letting us dock our boats overnight, since that storm would have made it rather difficult to find a safer place. Also, thank you to my lovely Aunts (Kathy, Debbie, and Ree) for making sure our final night outside of New Jersey was a good one. We appreciate it greatly. Tune in tomorrow for updates and results from Round 2 of the Rock the Boat for Autism Bay Race Circuit Series. Location: Delaware. Boat 1: OD and Dan "The Man" McCann. Boat 2: big Lar and Ryan. The flag (should) drops at (or around) 7:30.

Ryan Meyer Jul 29, 2009 at 19:18 We were cruising up the Lewes Canal today, when we pulled into the Lewes Harbour Marina for a last stop map check and information session. Ten minutes later, the thunder cracked and the rain poured down. So, tomorrow is the day. The tide times are favorable for an early start, and the weather reports look good. By this time tomorrow, we will literally be on the home stretch. A huge thank you to our new friends the Curzi's: Alex and her mother MaryAnne. Already friends with James, they invited all of us over for dinner and a comfortable, safe place to stay; despite the fact they could smell us before we were cordially introduced. Our blessings continue.

Ryan Meyer Jul 28, 2009 at 21:37 Yesterday, when the guys were cut short by a pretty heavy thunderstorm, they met Sandy and Alan on the water. Being familiar with the water (they run Adventures in Kayaking in Bethany Beach), they struck up a conversation. The storm put a stop to things pretty quick, but not before they could take our number. By the time I had picked up the crew, Sandy had called her good friend Mike McCarthy and told him our story. As we were trying to figure out the night ahead, Mike called and invited us to his home, a few miles away, for a home-cooked meal and a safe place to sleep. Long story short, we need to thank all of these beautiful people for their overwhelming kindness and hospitality: Alan, Sandy, Mike, Patty, Caitlin, Hank, and Zach, and even Alli and her Mom, their family friends from NY. It is so close to the end for us and we are still being blessed. Mike, who owns and operates Stones, an exceptional landscaping business in town, even went so far as to take up sign space on his office billboard to promote our cause. All of these outstanding people, along with all of those we've met along the way and those supporting from afar, have contributed, tremendously, to our goal. Our only hope is that we can make as much an impact on the lives of those affected by autism, as all of these people have made on our lives.

Rock The Boat Jul 28, 2009 at 11:59 Leaving Bethany Beach with an excellent day at hand. We're shooting for Rehoboth, but may even go all the way to Lewes. Either way, we'll be that much closer to Sea Isle.

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jul 28, 2009 at 02:23 With a storm quickly approaching, we shut it down in bethany beach. We met a wonderful couple, Sandy and Allen, owners of Adventure Kayak, who decided to help us find shelter after hearing about our cause. They made some phone calls to some friends from church. The McCarthy family was generous enough to open their home to us. Mike, thank you for sharing your blessings and your faith. As august 1 approaches, we can see the t-storm forecast for the next 7 days. :-( Not what we were hoping for. Thanks for all of the emails everyone. We read them in the morning before we launch to remind us why we are doing what we are doing. Often times, we need that reminder to encourage us to go forward. We can not thank you enough for sharing your testimonies, the daily struggles of being a parent, family member or friend to someone with autism. No matter how hard our struggles are on the water, we remember how you guys persevere each and every day. You guys rock! This message was sent using the Picture and Video Messaging service from Verizon Wireless! To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture. Note: To play video messages sent to email, QuickTimeŽ 6.5 or higher is required.

5163613865@vtext.com Jul 27, 2009 at 19:08 Big thanks to the McCarthy's in Frankford DE. Amazing people who allowed us to sleep in their beautiful home. So blessed.

Ryan Meyer Jul 27, 2009 at 22:05 The guys cruised into Delaware today, but got shut down shortly after crossing the border by heavy rain and thunderstorms. Still, positive mileage on the day. We need to thank Mr. and Mrs. Lose for helping us out bigtime last night and finding us a safe and comfortable place to stay. Their help, support, and motivation is, as always, greatly appreciated. Also, I need to thank my beautiful mother for her surprise visit last night. Not only was it great to see her (and her good friends Denise and Annie), but she was kind enough to fuel us up with some good grub. Love ya Mom. Finally, thanks to everyone sending the e-mails. They are overwhelmingly inspirational. God bless all of you.

Ryan Meyer Jul 27, 2009 at 11:20 Delaware-bound.

5163613865@vtext.com Jul 26, 2009 at 19:18 Gotta love the south winds in Maryland. Each day we see more and more Phillies hats, we are getting close.

Ryan Meyer Jul 26, 2009 at 15:33 Why is it that on my day off there is a straight South wind blowing at 15-20 mph? At that point, are oars even necessary?

maher.larry@gmail.com Jul 26, 2009 at 14:51 Ladies and gentlemen, I have just received word of a new breakthrough weightloss program. Lose 20 pounds in 51 days! That's right, it can happen that fast! Eat whatever you want, as much as you want! No gimmicks! So what is the secret? Simply row 10 hours a day, everyday for 51 days. That's it! Your beach body is only 51 days away! This advertisment has been tested and approved by Larry Maher* *Larry Maher is not a paid spokesperson. Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Ryan Meyer Jul 26, 2009 at 09:17 Not only did we break out of Virginia yesterday, but we got pretty far into Maryland, ending up just South of Ocean City. It was a sloppy SE wind we had to row through, but it actually helped more than hurt. We need to thank the lovely couple who ran the Birchwood Motel on Chincoteague Island. Not only were they kind enough to accomodate us, but they went out of their way to ask the owner, Mr. Donny Birch, if we could tie up our boats to his slips for the night. It was a great "last stop" before leaving VA. That being said, we would also like to thank our buddy Gavin. A St. Joe's alum, former rower, and good friend of Larry, James, and Dan, Gavin not only let us shack up at his house last night, but he got us some spotlight as well. The (Philly) cover band, Split Decision, brought us on stage last night, in the middle of their set, to help us spread the word and gain some extra momentum heading into our final week. It was an awesome gesture on their part, and it only got us more excited for next, excuse me, this Saturday in Sea Isle.

John Lose Jul 26, 2009 at 06:07 Thanks again to Genie, Rick, and Donny Birch at the Birchwood Motel in Chincoteague, VA. Great memory.

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jul 25, 2009 at 14:59 Chincoteague Island was great to us. HUGE THANKS to Donny Birch at the Birchwood Motel for hosting us last night. It felt great to get showered and have a roof over our head. Can not thank you enough! There was a fundraiser next door for the local volunteer fire department so we went over to show some support. One good cause helping another. It was great meeting everyone and getting a taste of Chincoteague. This message was sent using the Picture and Video Messaging service from Verizon Wireless! To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture. Note: To play video messages sent to email, QuickTimeŽ 6.5 or higher is required.

Ryan Meyer Jul 25, 2009 at 06:06 Another strong day yesterday landed us on Chincoteague Island: real nice town with real nice people. Our blessings continue, so we'll see what we can manage today.

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jul 25, 2009 at 00:16 Today is James' birthday. So if you havent already, send him a text! Im sure he'd appreciate it! 516 361 3865 This message has been sent using the picture and Video service from Verizon Wireless! To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture. Note: To play video messages sent to email, Quicktime@ 6.5 or higher is required.

5163613865@vtext.com Jul 24, 2009 at 16:52 celebrating my 22nd birthday in Chincoteague, VA. Great little carnival right next to the boats (im pretending is my bday party)

Ryan Meyer Jul 24, 2009 at 10:12 For anyone out there supporting the cause or just interested in a good book, I picked up The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night- Time by Mark Haddon when we pulled into the Sea Gate Marina in North Carolina. Unbeknownst to me at the time, it is a novel about a teenage boy with special needs. The story opens your eyes and gives us just one example of how different everyone's mind works. I just finished it yesterday and would definitely recommend it.

Ryan Meyer Jul 23, 2009 at 21:37 Despite some early rain and a bleek forecast, we put in a very strong day. Everybody's feeling good and getting excited. We hope everybody back home is ready for our arrival.

5163613865@vtext.com Jul 23, 2009 at 16:21 Waiting for the guys at Parker Creeks public dock in VA. Another long day the guys put in, definately looking forward to home.

John Lose Jul 23, 2009 at 12:29 Stopping at the Wachapreague Marina for a half time break

John Lose Jul 23, 2009 at 11:56 Stopping at the Wachapreague Marina for a half time break

5163613865@vtext.com Jul 23, 2009 at 06:05 Insane tides on the Virginia coast almost had us sleeping in our boats last night.Thankful to make it out safe in the dark of 10pm

Ryan Meyer Jul 23, 2009 at 08:16 Before we get going today, I need to thank Larry's Mom and Aunt Linda. They recently gave us 5 schlubs some 5-star treatment which we all appreciated, very much. Overcast today, with a declining weather report, so we'll see what we can do.

Ryan Meyer Jul 22, 2009 at 23:18 Departure: Magotha, VA; 12:15 pm Arrival: Exmore, VA; 9:40 pm Reason for delay: Mud

maher.larry@gmail.com Jul 22, 2009 at 18:47 Guys crushed the chesapeake yesterday. Wish I was in the boat helping out, but I did what I could from land. After I drove across the chesapeake bay bridge, I saw a sign for the cape may-lewes ferry. Unreal that we are that close to home already! Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

5163613865@vtext.com Jul 22, 2009 at 09:08 check us out on perezhilton.com today!!

Ryan Meyer Jul 21, 2009 at 19:13 We would like to congratulate everyone back home in South Jersey that participated in the Bay Race last night. We all wish we could have been there. In the Chesapeake Bay Race earlier, it was a nail biter. Taking first place with a time of 5 hrs, 46 minutes, and 13 seconds was none other than John Lose and Dan McCann. The runners-up, with a time of 5 hrs, 46 minutes, and 47 seconds, were the dynamic duo of James O'Donoghue and Ryan Meyer. Both crews put forth an outstanding effort. For a while there, about 3 hrs in the open water with no landmarks in sight, it really could have went either way. In the end, we're all just happy to be that much closer to home.

Ryan Meyer Jul 21, 2009 at 18:53 We left the Wiloughby Marina at 7:12 this morning and hit the beach at Cape Charles at 12:58. Thanks to everyone for all the prayers and support. We're almost there. We made it up to Mogatha for the night. Once we check out some new maps, we'll see what's in store for tomorrow.

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jul 21, 2009 at 21:21 Mentally, Im feeling great right now. Physically, I am tired. We just passed through the 25 mile open water row of the chesapeake bay. It was sloppy, choppy, and windy, but we were ready. We took a short break on a beach near Fishermans Island, then headed north 5 more miles before calling it a day. It feels so great to be done with the chesapeake! Confidence is high. Exhausted, we found a place to anchor the boats near a road the chase van could get to. We jumped at the opportunity because it didnt look like there was any civilization for many miles. As we climbed out of the boat we realized we were in mud (the kind you sink knee deep in when you walk). It took us a while, but we were able to walk through the mud and oyster shells to get to the van. Today, we celebrate the crossing of the chesapeake. This message was sent using the Picture and Video Messaging service from Verizon Wireless! To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture. Note: To play video messages sent to email, QuickTimeŽ 6.5 or higher is required.

James O'Donoghue Jul 21, 2009 at 17:13 Just made it across the Chesapeake in just under a record 6 hrs.

6093352258@vtext.com Jul 21, 2009 at 03:28 Today we take the row to another level.

John Lose Jul 21, 2009 at 03:20 Getting mentally ready for the chesapeake. Going to be a long day.

Ryan Meyer Jul 21, 2009 at 05:45 Obviously, we didn't go yesterday, but we're gonna go for it in about an hour. We'd like to thank Dan from the Lafayette Yacht and Country Club for his help yesterday. Also, thanks to Kevin from www.kayakkevin.com for some great insight into our row today and pointing us in the right direction yesterday for some new maps. A huge thank you goes out to Dan and Gretchen Garbutt. Knowing we were pinned down by the wind yesterday, they saw to it we were mentally and nutritionally prepared for today. Dan is also one of our leading sponsors: www.oar-house.com. Definitely check it out. Lastly, we would like to thank the godfathers of this expedition, again. To Jay and Rod: your support and motivation continues to be extremely helpful and inspiring. Here we go.

James O'Donoghue Jul 21, 2009 at 03:12 Huge day tommorow. Much needed rest. Another big thanks to my uncle Brian O'Donoghue for doing an amazing job with administrative work and helping with the website and e-mails on his own time during his busy day. It is greatly appreciated by all members of Rock the Boat. Wish us luck as we cross the Chesapeake! This message was sent using the Picture and Video Messaging service from Verizon Wireless! To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture. Note: To play video messages sent to email, QuickTimeŽ 6.5 or higher is required.

Ryan Meyer Jul 19, 2009 at 20:28 We had a good go today. We left the West Landing Marina at about 10 and landed at Wiloughby H Marina at 7:30. Last mile was brutal rowing directly into the wind, but passing Norfolk and all the Navy ships was pretty cool. We would like to thank Robert from the West Landing Marina for letting us dock up last night and the kind people that were there helping us with local information. Also, a tremendous thank you goes out to Mrs. McCann and her good friend Tina. They saw to it that we were overly prepared for the rest of our trip. We can not thank them enough. Finally, we need some advice. Tomorrow's forecast is 10 to 15 mph, NE winds, with 25 mph gusts (for anyone unaware, that is the exact opposite of what we want). We are at the bottom of the Chesapeake Bay and ready to cross. Do we go? (Please text your answer to 516-361-3865).

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jul 19, 2009 at 20:19 HUGE THANKS to Rick Gottlieb for your help. You donated your time and skilled effort to make the website look fantastic. Can not thank you enough my man! I had been hearing it looked great from friends and family. I just had the opportunity to see it for myself. The guys are heading for Willoughby Harbor Marina, conditions permitting. This message was sent using the Picture and Video Messaging service from Verizon Wireless! To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture. Note: To play video messages sent to email, QuickTimeŽ 6.5 or higher is required.

Ryan Meyer Jul 18, 2009 at 12:00 After some much needed rest, the guys just left Coinjock. Dark clouds and light rain already, but a promising forecast should allow them to get somewhere over 20 miles today.

John Lose Jul 18, 2009 at 07:37 After ten grueling days, we finally break out of NC and into VA. Aug 1 is coming fast. Its getting to be crunch time.

Ryan Meyer Jul 17, 2009 at 20:06 Our 6 am start payed off big. Navigating the Albamarle Sound was far from easy, but an early start and favorable conditions helped us get across and then some. Our earliest finish to date, the boats are tied up at the Coinjock Marina for the night. If all goes well tomorrow, we'll be into Virginia and that much closer to the Chesapeake.

John Lose Jul 17, 2009 at 11:06 Made it across the sound safely using only the sun as our compass. Headed to coinjock, nc for the night. Hi sara!

James O'Donoghue Jul 17, 2009 at 15:14 48 Miles yesterday... long row today but hopefully done early because we were rowing by 6am. Dan McCann's birthday today! No better way to spend your 23rd then by rowing 30+ miles. Happy birthday Dan. This message was sent using the Picture and Video Messaging service from Verizon Wireless! To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture. Note: To play video messages sent to email, QuickTimeŽ 6.5 or higher is required.

Ryan Meyer Jul 17, 2009 at 05:20 40+ miles yesterday; 6 am start today. No rest for the weary.

Ryan Meyer Jul 16, 2009 at 21:10 It's been a while since we've stopped somewhere I could get service, so here goes. Monday we left late from Cedar Point due to nasty weather. Rowed thru thunder, lightning, and a lot (A LOT) of rain, but made it to the Sea Gate Marina up Adam's Creek. Thanks to Jen and George for the cheers and the pizza. Thanks to the local neighbors before the marina who came out to applaud. And, thanks to Helen from the Sea Gate Marina for letting us dock the boats and sleep in the common area. Next day was tough rowing against the current for 8 miles to start the day, but we made it all the way to a Coast Guard station in Hobucken. Thanks to Clay and the men and women of the station for letting us dock and for all they do. A huge thank you goes out to len and Barbara. Barb is Patty's sister from Cedar Point. Needless to say, once again we were welcomed with overwhelming hospitality. Even the neighbors (Russell, June, Alice, Mickey and her kids Keith, Liz, and Gabby) went out of their way to make sure our stay in town was great. The next morning, Barb and Len also made sure we were stocked and ready to go. We can not thank them enough. That day (Wednesday) we made it from Hobucken to Dowry Creek Marina in Belhaven, NC. Another tough row through some open water, but a relatively early finish for a change. Thank you very much to Andy and Karen Fisher of the Belhaven Bed and Breakfast on Water Street for giving us a safe place to stay and for baking us some amazing chocolate chip cookies. Today, we had to make a big jump; again. We left this morning at around 7:15 and pulled into the Alligator River Marina at 7:15. Favorable conditions: yes, very. Easy: no, not at all. Thanks to Miss Wanda for letting us dock up and recharge. Once again, pray for good weather tomorrow. Biggest open water crossing for us yet and a questionable forecast.

Larry Maher Jul 14, 2009 at 01:22 First day of rowing thru some serious rain. Glad to have a hot shower at the marina to warm up.

John Lose Jul 13, 2009 at 15:29 We will be docking at Sea Gate Marina in Newport, NC tonight. Thank you Helen Garvick for helping us out. You rock!

John Lose Jul 13, 2009 at 15:27 Great news. We should get 30 miles in today to keep us on pace to get to sea isle on time. Thank you Seth for the inspiration!

John Lose Jul 13, 2009 at 11:14 Waiting to hear from the guys to see how theyre doing. It is pouring rain. Lord, protect them.

Ryan Meyer Jul 13, 2009 at 09:56 Nasty weather in Cedar Point, NC. Holed up in the van waiting for a break in the pattern; not looking good though.

Ryan Meyer Jul 13, 2009 at 00:13 Solid day. The wind was howling in our favor up until the last 5 miles. Sea Tow even got a call to come out and check on us. We made it into the Bogue Sound and plan on getting another good jump tomorrow. Thank you, thank you, thank you to Brent and Patty, their son Seth, and all their friends and family. They "heard" we were coming through and went out of their way to get us some great homegrown food. We greatly appreciate what they've done for us and thank them for inviting us into their family and sharing their story with us.

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jul 12, 2009 at 12:35 If you havent checked this out already, you HAVE to: surfershealing.org. Its an amazing program that travels around teaching children with special needs how to surf. The kids love it. You can see how much they look forward to it by watching the videos on the site. They will make you cry. We met John Pike out on the boat (unplanned) and exchanget testimonies over dinner. What an amazing guy doing amazing work. Check out surfershealing.org. We got the boats 33 miles north yesterday (11 hrs out on the water) to get to holly ridge, a small town 5 miles north of Surf City, NC. This message was sent using the Picture and Video Messaging service from Verizon Wireless! To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture. Note: To play video messages sent to email, QuickTimeŽ 6.5 or higher is required.

Ryan Meyer Jul 12, 2009 at 01:49 Another long day in the boats, but we made some headway into Nort Carolina. We need another big day tomorrow, so pray for good weather. Thank you dearly to Mike and Terry McCloughlin, and their sons Mike and Matt, for giving us our best lunch in quite some time. Sally Heath, one of Rock the Boats earliest supporters from Wilmington (NC), mentioned us to Mike, who happens to live along the intracoastal, and his e-mail/invitation was one of our most recent blessings. Also, we would like to thank John Pike for helping us out with dinner and a place to crash for the night after only having met us on the water today. John is not just a fan of Rock the Boat; he, along with his buddy Jason and many others here in North Carolina, are responsible for developing a chapter of Surfers Healing here in Surf City. If you are unfamiliar, please check it out on-line; it is a tremendous activity/fundraiser/awareness-spreader for autism.

Ryan Meyer Jul 10, 2009 at 22:57 The Cape Fear River beat the boys up today, but they made it up to Whiskey Creek. Tomorrow needs to be a big push. Say a prayer for good conditions.

5163613865@vtext.com Jul 10, 2009 at 18:35 Another long day of strong currents against. About to fall asleep at a marina parking lot, another big day planned for tommorow.

Larry Maher Jul 10, 2009 at 18:39 One sentence to describe the day...Cape Fear lives up to its name.

Larry Maher Jul 10, 2009 at 18:37 One sentence to describe the day...Cape Fear lives up to its name.

Ryan Meyer Jul 10, 2009 at 12:30 The boys are headed up around Wrightsville, maybe even a little further. Thanks go out to Mr. Hank Whitley of the Southport Marina for letting us dock up last night. Also, thank you to our new friends (and John's grandfather's old friends) Claude and Helen. Once again we were blessed to encounter such kind and helpful people.

maher.larry@gmail.com Jul 10, 2009 at 14:21 Getting stuck on top of an underwater pipe in the final quarter mile of a 37 mile row can be very frustrating. Big day yesterday with great weather. Hopefully we can do it again today. Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jul 10, 2009 at 13:11 Just want to say thanks again to the Manning family for taking us in. Also, thank you to my grandmom and pop-pop for your support. Thank you Claude and Hellen for taking us in for a night, feeding us, and giving us a roof over our head. Thanks to the Southport Marina, we had a great place to dock the boats overnight. And finally, HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD! I wish i could be there to celebrate with you! Love you Dad. This message was sent using the Picture and Video Messaging service from Verizon Wireless! To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture. Note: To play video messages sent to email, QuickTimeŽ 6.5 or higher is required.

Ryan Meyer Jul 9, 2009 at 23:36 12 hours in the boats, 90% of the time against the current, and off and on rain throughout the day. However, we put a very nice dent in North Carolina and tomorrow we take on the infamous Cape Fear. Great day.

James O'Donoghue Jul 10, 2009 at 02:34 Brutal day. 38 miles in about 12 hours, against the current and in the rain most of the day. Wouldn't have been possible without the generosity of the Manning family in Myrtle Beach who gave us beds and food for two straight days. We made it to North Carolina today so downhill from here

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jul 10, 2009 at 01:28 Claude and i were waiting on the dock as the boys rowed into Southport Marina. It was a lonnnng day. Early start. Late finish. Current against us. Wind against us. Raining on us much of the day. Got stuck on an un-marked pipeline. Just a nasty day for rowing. However, the guys got 37 nautical miles in point-to-point (plus the zig-zagging to avoid the heavier currents against us). Tired. Sore. Hands, back, and legs are the the most sore. We have the pleasure of ending the night on a good note though. My pop-pop's best friend from high school (Claude) got a call from my grandpop telling him we were in the area, and he decided to host us for the night. We're excited for a late dinner and roof over our head. Tommorrow, we pass through Cape Fear, and we hear it lives up to the hype of the name. The emails keep pouring in with words of encouragement, reminding us why we're doing all this. Thanks everyone for the support and sharing your struggles with autism.

John Lose Jul 09, 2009 at 04:36 Special thanks to Susie from the Harbourgate Marina. Thank you Manning Family for the hospitality. Showers, a roof, beds, and food!

John Lose Jul 09, 2009 at 04:33 Setting up the boats now. With the tide situation, we have to leave soon. Tonight's destination: southport marina.

Ryan Meyer Jul 8, 2009 at 22:19 We need to thank the Harbour Gates Marina for letting us dock our boats last night; the courtesy is very much appreciated. Last night, Dan's Uncle Bud and Aunt Fran showed us what fine food and good company Myrtle Beach has to offer. Thank you for both. Also, an enormous thank you goes out to the entire Manning clan. Everyone in the family went out of their way to help us out as much as possible the last two days, and it will propel us into the next half of our mission. Thank you all so much.

maher.larry@gmail.com Jul 9, 2009 at 00:37 Time to tackle North Carolina. Its going to be hard leaving South Carolina after all the help we got from everyone. Jan, Andre, and family thank you guys for delicious meatballs, great story time, a place to sleep, and everything else you were willing to give us. It means so much to us and we couldn't stop talking about you. Thank you to Heritage Plantation Marina and Ron for helping us with a place for our boats. Walker, the history guy, thanks for the dock and your help. Bob thank you for the boat ride, it was awesome. To everyone we met in South Carolina we can't thank you enough we will never forget this state. Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Ryan Meyer Jul 7, 2009 at 18:57 If the tide changes every six hours, how did we manage to row against the current for eight yesterday? (Note: this is a rhetorical question. I know how, the point is yesterday was strenuous.)

Ryan Meyer Jul 7, 2009 at 18:23 In Myrtle. Will break into North Carolina tomorrow for sure. Thanks to Walter from Heritage Plantation for letting us dock two nights ago and the local news affiliates for helping us spread awareness.

Ryan Meyer Jul 7, 2009 at 17:16 Wasn't a big day yesterday, but we finally, officially made it to Myrtle Beach. We might even make it out of South Carolina by tonight.

5163613865@vtext.com Jul 07, 2009 at 05:58 Rowing in south carolina and just got a call from ABC that we were on Good Morning America this morning!! Thanks so much ABC!

maher.larry@gmail.com Jul 7, 2009 at 10:35 Check out our live interviews we just had this morning at wmbfnews.com, a local news station in myrtle beach, sc. Thanks Jen! We just finished the interviews and are about to hit the water. Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Ryan Meyer Jul 6, 2009 at 10:28 Two nights ago, Mr. and Mrs. Lose were nice enough to meet up with us on their way home from Florida. They got us the rest and nourishment we pretty much are always in need of. We thank them kindly. Then, another huge thank you goes out to Andre and Jan Myketey and their family. They fed us 'til we couldn't move, we fell asleep, and then they fed us some more. Another example of great people doing great things. We're about to shove off and try to get into the heart of Myrtle Beach today. Let's hope these storms don't give us any trouble.

James O'Donoghue Jul 6, 2009 at 12:52 Another good 38 mile day. Huge thanks to Jan and Andrey Myketey in Myrtle for feeding us an amazing dinner and breakfast as well as letting us spend the night. These luxuries are what help keep us going! This message was sent using the Picture and Video Messaging service from Verizon Wireless! To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture. Note: To play video messages sent to email, QuickTimeŽ 6.5 or higher is required.

Ryan Meyer Jul 5, 2009 at 22:41 A "plantation"-sized thank you goes out to Jim Cameron. Jim was kind enough to put us up for the night, feed us the best ribs I've ever had, and give us a super quick tour of the Wedge plantation. On a further positive note, we left McLellanville today at 9, rowed past Georgetown, and stopped just south of Myrtle Beach. And, we saw a 'gator dive in the water and contemplate the contents of our boats. Great day.

maher.larry@gmail.com Jul 5, 2009 at 16:35 Happy belated 4th everyone! We are so happy we got to see some fireworks last night. We met up with Mr and Mrs Lose in Georgetown to enjoy the festivities. South Carolina has been such a great experience. The weather is finally starting to break so the miles are getting a bit easier to put in. Meeting everyone at the Coosaw Yacht Club at "Stan's" Point was an unforgetable experience. Not only did we sleep where part of Forest Gump was filmed, we met an incredible family that took us in as one of their own. We cannot thank them enough for their hospitality. We also recently slept on Wedge Plantation thanks to Jim Cameron and the plantation's owners. We could just feel the history in this mansion as we sat down to the best ribs we have ever tasted. We even got a tour of a large part of the plantation the following morning, I have never seen anything like it. Thanks to everyone for all your support! You are making this the most amazing experience any of us has had. Tonight we hope to stop into Myrtle Beach to meet with family and friends we each have there. North Carolina is next on the list. Talk to everyone soon. Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Ryan Meyer Jul 4, 2009 at 12:16 The guys left Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge in South Carolina about an hour ago. Boat traffic slowed us down a lot yesterday, so today's goal is to get just south of Georgetown. Here's wishing everybody a happy and safe 4th of July.

Ryan Meyer Jul 3, 2009 at 23:56 Only got in about 20 miles today, fightin' the current for the first half of the day, but we're right about half-way in terms of mileage for the whole trip. A big day tomorrow will get us within a day of Myrtle.

Ryan Meyer Jul 2, 2009 at 22:55 Not the average number of miles today, but we definitely had to work for the ones we did get. On a positive note, we are in Charleston, South Carolina. An enormous thank you goes out to our new friend Josh Sisson. He helped us get a place to dock and some good grub tonight at Red's Ice House. At this rate, we might get to Myrtle Beach as early Saturday night.

John Lose Jul 02, 2009 at 08:01 We will be at Red's Ice House in Charleston in a few hrs. Thank you Josh from the Coosaw Yaght Club for the hook-up

Ryan Meyer Jul 2, 2009 at 10:09 Headed for North Charleston. Bays might be rough but we gotta get there.

5163613865@vtext.com Jul 02, 2009 at 06:35 Big thanks to Davis Corbin for letting us use his dock last night. It was getting dark aand he really saved us. Charleston tonight!

Ryan Meyer Jul 2, 2009 at 00:41 We're about 25 miles out of Charleston and doing great. An enormous thank you goes out to Stan and the gang on Coosaw Island. Last night, with no marinas or state parks for miles, Stan was kind enough to not only let us tie up on his dock, but let us sleep in his dock house as well. Oddly enough, it was the same dock from Forrest Gump. The best part about the night though was hanging out with the whole neighborhood, or, as we now know them, the members of the Coosaw Yacht Club. Their kindness and support was overwhelming and will forever be remembered.

Ryan Meyer Jul 2, 2009 at 00:28 We left the Skull Creek Marina in Hilton Head two days ago before thanking Mr. Peppers and the crew on board at the marina. Their kindness was greatly appreciated, along with their useful tide information.

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jun 30, 2009 at 19:07 Stopped at Downtown Marina in Beaufort, S.C. for a short break. We got 17 miles in so far today. We just bought a new map to get us through the rest of S.C. and we realized we have a decision to make. The next marina that is on the ICW is in Charleston (67 miles away) because there is a huge wildlife refuge. We cant get there today. So do we row 20 mi today and sleep in the boat and get there tomm night? Or do we row off-course to sleep at a marina? The ppl in S.C. are really nice and supportive.

5163613865@vtext.com Jun 30, 2009 at 06:57 93 degrees today! By far the coolest day we have had so far. I love rowing north!

Ryan Meyer Jun 30, 2009 at 09:12 Leaving for Beaufort. Wish us luck.

Ryan Meyer Jun 29, 2009 at 22:09 The guys made a great push today. They left Oatland Island, Georgia at about 9 this morning and got all the way up to the top of Hilton Head Island. They docked at a a cozy place called Skull Creek Marina before a hail ( yes hail) storm touched down. Tomorrow we'll cross the Port Royal Sound and see how far up Parris Island we can get. Thanks to Brian Nyakwara for helping us out with a place to stay tonight.

John Lose Jun 28, 2009 at 19:33 We docked the boats in northern savannah. Ryan and james got us a hotel room 3 miles away. Big day tomm. We're excited!

Ryan Meyer Jun 28, 2009 at 10:50 Ok, three days ago when the van was broken down and we were basically stuck on St. Simon's Island, we received some of the finest hospitality to date. James' Aunt Norah was nice enough to pick us up and drive us around, so we could fill up on supplies for our upcoming two-day row-a-thon. Then, she was kind enough to ask a close friend of hers to put us up for the night. Enter Debbie Clark and her daughter Sam. Not only did they let us stay the night and clean up a bit, but we got some great food for lunch AND dinner for the first time in a while. Thank you so much to all three of these lovely ladies. Then, thanks to D. Blackshear and Melissa from Golden Isles Marina for their very helpful, much needed tide information and backwater tips. It propelled us that first day, big time. Lastly, thanks go out to Pete MacDonald and Lamar Kiersen, and their families, for not even thinking twice when we asked if we could tie our boats up for the night. We greatly appreciate that. As always, thanks to everyone so far. Even just motoring up to us, asking about the cause and how we're doing and standing on docks, shouting and clapping, goes a long way.

Ryan Meyer Jun 28, 2009 at 10:24 Well, after two, back to back, 12 hour days of rowing, we made it to Savannah. Conditons were good the first day, until we hit the ocean. We made it to the top of Blackbeard Island before shutting down for the night due to an incoming storm. Between the wind, the bugs, an ATV driving by every half hour, and sleeping in wet boats, it wasn't our best night of camping. So, we were (already) up at the crack of dawn and pushing the boats back the 60 yards to the water, when the National Wildlife Refuge stopped us. They were nice enough to let us go (apparently no overnight stays on Blackbeard Island), probably because we looked, well, not great. Then, we crossed Sappelo Sound, rowed through St. Catherine's, across St. Catherine's Sound, through Ossabaw Island, across the Ogeechee River, up the Vernon River, and part-way up the Burnside River, until we found some available boat slips at South Harbor Community on Skidaway Island. No getting out of the boats, just rowing. And then some.

5163613865@vtext.com Jun 28, 2009 at 07:15 over 100 miles in the last 2 days. Tired and sore but glad to be so close to SC.

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jun 28, 2009 at 01:56 Im late with a detailed description of the past 2 days b/c we've had no cell phone service in GA. We rowed 48 miles yesterday to find ourselves on Blackbeard Island. We strayed from the Intracoastal for a little as we tried the ocean for about 12 miles, which we soon regretted as it tossed our boats around and tired us out. We beached for the night as an ugly storm approached. After the storm blew over, Larry and i were walking around the island trying to get cell service to let ppl know we were safe. While walking, we passed a big gator about 20 feet away. We mustve scared it b/c it ran away. They are so quick on their feet! The island was infested with crabs. Ive never seen anything like it. Didnt sleep much. We woke up to some park rangers telling us to leave. They showed us sea turtle eggs tho. Rowed another 50 miles in 12 hrs straight today. We're tired. Sleeping like babies tonight!

John Lose Jun 27, 2009 at 16:20 Slept on Blackbeard Island last night. Just docked in Savannah after rowing 100 miles in 2 days Saw gators and held sea turtle eggs

John Lose Jun 26, 2009 at 03:17 Getting ready for day 15

Ryan Meyer Jun 25, 2009 at 17:58 After a very long expedition yesterday (and this morning), we are safely into our first leg of Georgia. Our 14 hour marathon yesterday included oyster beds, a submarine, a brief encounter with marine police (a simple misunderstanding), strong currents (against us, as usual), wrong turns, wrong bridges, multiple wrong guesses, and a 4 am wake up call by the Brunswick Coast Guard that went something like, "Hello? Who are you? And, why are you sleeping on our dock?" All joking aside, they were extremely helpful ( with maps and directions), understanding, and extremely supportive of the cause. We appreciate that. The van should be up and running by tomorrow, so thank you to everyone who called and e-mailed offering help and/or suggestions. Our bigger problem now is a slow leak in the one boat. Personally, I think it only fair considering I have to row the heavier and, therefore, slower boat everyday. Luckily, it's something that can be fixed quickly and cheaply.

John Lose Jun 25, 2009 at 14:25 Robby from Southeast Adventure Outfitters in St. Simons Island, GA just donated some waterproof maps to help us on our journey.

John Lose Jun 25, 2009 at 11:09 We saw a submarine yesterday. Awesome!

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jun 25, 2009 at 17:53 Its a good thing we got ourselves ahead of schedule while in Florida, because Georgia has been rough. We are having problems with the van, which is slowing us down, but its good because its giving us time to map out our trip and figure out tides. In Florida, the currents are wind-driven, but we think from now on, it will depend on tides. James' aunt and her friend Debbie are treating us to lunch so we are all very excited! We are exhausted from all this rowing. Our bodies are sore, backs aching, hands are molded to the shape of the oar handle and blistered. Our spirits are high though. If we can make it thru the past few days as well as we have, we are confident we can accomplish anything. Also, we should be in South Carolina by this wkend. Georgia has lived up to the hype. We are on St. Simon's Island. July 4th is coming fast! Cant wait!

5163613865@vtext.com Jun 24, 2009 at 15:17 Van died again. No clue how we are getting out of this one. Going to be a very long few days.

James O'Donoghue Jun 24, 2009 at 16:35 Boys took off from amelia island and fernandina beach. They plan to stop tonight at jeckyll island about 35 miles north. I'm going to do my best getting them a place to set up tonight. Thanks again to jimmy at the hampton inn at fernandina beach for hookinh us up with a FREE SUITE for the night!

maher.larry@gmail.com Jun 24, 2009 at 03:47 Had a great day off today. After a day of the current ripping against us and a severe thunderstorm that hindered us yesterday, today turned out to be very productive. I first met with Carol at the Amelia Island Yacht Basin who was very helpful in providing us with information on docking our boats and lodging for the night. I met with Jay and Rodger at Fernandina Harbor Marina who generously provided us with a discounted boat slip for the night. I then went and spoke with Jimmy Cooper and Carolyn at the Hampton Inn and Suites in downtown Fernandina. What a great people they were, even though one of them is a Cowboys fan. They were able to not only donate a complimentary room, but a suite for the night. Thanks a million Jimmy, Carolyn, and Hampton Inn. And finally, thanks to the Philly Boyz steak shop and Scott in downtown Fernandina for getting us some great late night sandwiches and also setting up a collection basket to collect donations for our cause. That southern hospitality everyone talks about it definately true. Thanks to everyone! We are less than 5 miles out from Georgia. We can't wait to get our first state done! Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

5163613865@vtext.com Jun 23, 2009 at 20:35 Done rowing in florida! i have off tommorow so im enjoying my first beer in three weeks at the oldest bar in florida!

Ryan Meyer Jun 23, 2009 at 23:26 Before we move on to a new state, we need to thank a few more people. First, thanks to Bernie in Jacksonville for letting us dock our boats at his house last night. Then, thanks to Jimmy Cooper at the Hampton Inn for setting us up on our last night in Florida so we could refuel and re-energize. Thanks also to Scott from Philly Boyz in Fernandina Beach, not just for the great food at the great price but for trying to get us some new, local supporters. Again, thanks to everyone so far, in Florida and abroad, for all the support and e-mails. Keep it coming; we need it.

Ryan Meyer Jun 23, 2009 at 22:30 Left somewhere north of Jacksonville today at around 1:30 and rowed almost 8 straight hours to Fernandina Beach. Against the wind and current almost the entire time, but we'll be in Georgia tomorrow.

5163613865@vtext.com Jun 23, 2009 at 11:36 big thanks to bernie from berniestools.com for loookingout for us in jacksonville and lettingus beach our boats in his yard. He ma

Ryan Meyer Jun 22, 2009 at 19:21 Thanks again to Scott from Beach Auto Body. Due to his timely skills and kind heart, we're up and running again. The guys shoved off from Beach Marine marina in Jacksonville Beach around 5. Might be a short day mileage-wise though, so we can stock up on supplies and get some good maps before Georgia.

Ryan Meyer Jun 22, 2009 at 13:16 Again, acknowledgements first. First, thanks to Scott from Tow Boat U.S.A. for his tide/current info which propelled us to our first big mileage day on Friday. Also to our waitress, Sara, for the "decadent," complimentary, fried corn meal balls at lunch that day at Down the Hatch. Then, thanks to an old friend (Jess Kretz) for helping us out. Enter Travis, who went out on a limb and let us stay indoors for a night, despite not really knowing us and us not really smelling nice. Finally, thank you to a bunch of people at the culmination of our second big day (yesterday). At this point, our van had broken down. So, thank you to Corporal John Brechler for pulling over and getting us a tow truck. Then, thank you to Scott and Charlie from Beach Body Auto for doing what they do best and cutting us a huge break. Thanks to Beach Marina in Jacksonville for letting us tie up late last night and giving us a safe place to keep the boats. And thank you to the Holiday Inn Express in Jacksonville for giving us a good deal on a room so we could shower up and recover for the first time in a few days. Thank you also to Mrs. Lose for doing work behind the scenes and helping us out all the way from back home. So far, so good. God and luck have certainly been on our side. Almost out of Florida so keep praying, keep checking the website, and keep spreading the word.

John Lose Jun 21, 2009 at 20:06 The boys got 51 miles in today! I repeat ... 51 hard-earned miles! Unreal! Im so proud of you 4!

John Lose Jun 21, 2009 at 17:39 NBC and ABC News are coming to meet us now! If youre in JAX, be sure to watch the 11:00 news tonight! Praise the Lord!

John Lose Jun 21, 2009 at 17:03 We are docking at the Beach Marina in Jax Beach 4 the night. Meeting some media now. Then we will figure out dinner!

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jun 21, 2009 at 23:01 Just want to say thanks to everyone for their support. Obviously, while on the water, we are unable to check our email. When we do find access to internet, we are reading all of your emailr and watching donations to ASA pile up! Thank you for your encouraging words. They keep us going on days like today, with rough water and very hot weather. Thank you for your donations too. It is inspiring us to just keep going. So many things have been going our way, we finally had one that didnt. The chase van is having "technical difficulties." I am at a repair shop in Jacksonville Beach. I hear there is a place down the road the boats can dock to. Im walking there now to scope it out. We hope to be back on the water tomm and have the van fixed tomm night. I will keep you all updated! This message was sent using the Picture and Video Messaging service from Verizon Wireless! To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture. Note: To play video messages sent to email, QuickTimeŽ 6.5 or higher is required.

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jun 21, 2009 at 15:45 We fought the current all morning to get 12 hard earned miles. Stopping at St. Augustine Marina to make some tuna sandwiches for lunch. Mmmmm... The tide switches at 1:30 so we will head back out around 2:30 to try and get another 20 miles in today. We are all very tired as we did not sleep well last night. So its nap time in St. Augustine for us! Bye for now. P.s. There are signs everywhere saying "watch out for whales" so we are hoping to see some! This message was sent using the Picture and Video Messaging service from Verizon Wireless! To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture. Note: To play video messages sent to email, QuickTimeŽ 6.5 or higher is required.

John Lose Jun 21, 2009 at 04:24 We slept in Crescent beach last night. The guys just hit the water. I am in the van today.

James O'Donoghue Jun 21, 2009 at 10:36 Really tough day yesterday, 96 degrees and the current against us. We still managed a 30 mile day but definately the hardest so far. About to head back out, real early this time because news calls for a 98 degree day. 2 more days and we should be out of Florida

6093352258@vtext.com Jun 20, 2009 at 05:26 Thanks Maria Mary Jean Orphy and Clair for the support and prayers i love you all. See you august 1!

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jun 20, 2009 at 12:14 Rowed about 42 miles yesterday. Great day. Travis, thank you for being such an awesome host. We got showers, beds, and were able to charge our phones and gps. We feel fresh - hoping for another 40 mile day to put us up near anastasia island This message was sent using the Picture and Video Messaging service from Verizon Wireless! To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture. Note: To play video messages sent to email, QuickTimeŽ 6.5 or higher is required.

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jun 19, 2009 at 06:09 We are in Oak Hill. Got 28 miles in tonight. Very tired. Just got a hot shower. Im drinking my favorite drink: chocolate milk. And now we all get to sleep for a few hrs. Goodnight! I love you Jesus

James O'Donoghue Jun 19, 2009 at 05:50 Left kennedy park at 540 and just got into oak hill park about 1am. Made it 28 miles. During this row we saw a space launch from the space center, 4 manatee attacks on us, a shark, and a fish jumped into our boat. Long night but interesting. Up early for more rowing

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jun 18, 2009 at 17:51 Rode into the night yesterday. We got a hard-fought 29 miles in. Get this! Because there is so much algae in the FL water, our oars glowed in the dark all night! and where the bow of the boat broke the water, that glowed too! Every movement of water made it glow. Every fish that swam by glowed! There were alot of fish too, some were really quick, and there were some pretty big fish swimming by to come check us out. Kinda scary to think those are swimming near us everyday! We also had our first gator siting - very small tho. We have a big day ahead of us. We are passing Kennedy Space Center. Since its gov't property we are not allowed to dock or go outside the channel markers. But that property is 35 miles, straight shot. Hope the weather is on our side!

Ryan Meyer Jun 17, 2009 at 23:28 Though they had a late start, the guys pushed all the way into Titusville before bringing the boats in. Awesome row.

Ryan Meyer Jun 17, 2009 at 17:48 The guys just left Cocoa (Village) and are trying to make it to Port St. John. Nasty headwind though. Wish 'em luck and pray for 'em.

maher.larry@gmail.com Jun 17, 2009 at 20:17 # Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Larry Maher Jun 17, 2009 at 15:19 # This message was sent using the Picture and Video Messaging service from Verizon Wireless! To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture. Note: To play video messages sent to email, QuickTimeŽ 6.5 or higher is required.

maher.larry@gmail.com Jun 17, 2009 at 20:14 Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

John Lose Jun 17, 2009 at 09:08 Stopping in Cocoa for lunch and a nap. we got 14 miles in this morning

5163613865@vtext.com Jun 17, 2009 at 08:45 Big thanks to Fred in Melborne FL for letting us leave our boats in his yard before the storm hit us and for a generous donation!

Ryan Meyer Jun 17, 2009 at 07:52 I'm sure it's already been posted by the rest of the guys, but I would like to thank a few more people and places. First off, George and Julie Williams who own and operate an outstanding sandwhich shop in Vero Beach (and just so happen to be New Jersey transplants). Then, Susan Jurisk (sorry Susan if I misspelled your last name). Aside from the incredible generosity Susan showed to us, she is diligently pursuing Autism awareness in her area by trying to get legislators on board to improve things for those affected in and around her county. A thank you goes out to Captain Hiram's near Sebastian for kindly and openly welcoming us. Thanks, again, to Jay Stern, for his continued support and advice. Thank you to the owner of the Yellow Dog Cafe', just below Melbourne, and to Jackie and Meredith who work there. Also, thank you to the man and woman (sorry for not getting your names) who made a very generous donation to Rock the Boat before sitting down to eat. We greatly appreciate all the help (read: food, shelter, shower) that Mr. Lose (John's dad) has been able to give us today and yesterday. And, last but not least, thank you Fred. Fred was not only kind enough to let us dock our boats last night behind his house right before the storm, but even got up this morning to see us off and make a very generous donation. Thanks to everyone else donating on-line, calling local news stations and papers, clapping and cheering from boats and docks; it all plays a vital part in us reaching our goal.

John Lose Jun 16, 2009 at 17:45 Staying in Cocoa Beach tonight. Got 27 miles in today. Space shuttle launch tomm at 540am! We have front row seats! Thank you Jesus

John Lose Jun 16, 2009 at 17:42 Thank you Fred from Melbourne for letting us dock the boats at your house! You rock!

John Lose Jun 16, 2009 at 07:48 Stopping for lunch at the Yellow Dog Cafe

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jun 16, 2009 at 02:23 This has been an unbelievable day! After Vero Beach Bagels donated a great lunch, Susan booked us a hotel room at Capt. Hiram's Resort! Susan, thank you so much! You rock! If we can help your effort to form a camp for, please let us know! But the great day got even better! Jay, thank you so much for buying us dinner! This is totally awesome! We rowed 30 miles today. We are in Sebastian, FL. We have gotten so many words of encouragement thus far. Thank you everyone for all of your support! You all rock! I think we just all decided this was the best day of our lives.

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jun 16, 2009 at 01:17 This has been an unbelievable day! After Vero Beach Bagels donated a great lunch, Susan booked us a hotel room at Capt. Hiram's Resort! Susan, thank you so much! You rock! If we can help your effort to form a camp for, please let us know! But the great day got even better! Jay, thank you so much for buying us dinner! This is totally awesome! We rowed 30 miles today. We are in Sebastian, FL. We have gotten so many words of encouragement thus far. Thank you everyone for all of your support! You all rock! This message was sent using the Picture and Video Messaging service from Verizon Wireless! To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture. Note: To play video messages sent to email, QuickTimeŽ 6.5 or higher is required.

maher.larry@gmail.com Jun 16, 2009 at 01:13 Today could not have gone better. After a rough morning, we found a public water park and went under some fountains to get cooled off, then got lunch delivered to us by the awesome George and Julie from Vero Beach Bagels, interviewed with the local newspaper, got a great overcast for the second half of the row, got a hotel room courtesy of the amazing Susan Jursik, and a dinner from the legendary Jay Stern. Jay we can't thank you enough for everything you have done. Many thanks to everyone for all your support. Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

maher.larry@gmail.com Jun 15, 2009 at 18:02 Currently resting at an "oasis" in vero beach before we start the second half of the day. Hydration is getting difficult Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

6093352258@vtext.com Jun 15, 2009 at 08:53 I just want to thank everyone for your support. Special thanks to my parents and alexa

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jun 15, 2009 at 15:46 God has blessed us again! We got 16 miles in this morning against the current. Just as the heat was starting to get to us, we stumbled upon Royal Palm Pointe Park in Vero Beach. Fresh water, showers, docks, etc. PLUS, George and Julie Williams of Vero Beach Bagel Cafe are bringing us lunch! Unreal! Thank you so much George and Julie! We are meeting some local media now. Vero Beach is awesome!

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jun 15, 2009 at 15:44 God has blessed us again! We got 16 miles in this morning against the current. Just as the heat was starting to get to us, we stumbled upon Royal Palm Pointe Park in Vero Beach. Fresh water, showers, docks, etc. PLUS, George and Julie Williams of Vero Beach Bagel Cafe are bringing us lunch! Unreal! Thank you so much George and Julie! We are meeting some local media now. Vero Beach is awesome! This message was sent using the Picture and Video Messaging service from Verizon Wireless! To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture. Note: To play video messages sent to email, QuickTimeŽ 6.5 or higher is required.

John Lose Jun 14, 2009 at 18:24 Got 31 miles in today. We are in Ft. Pierce. Rough water today, we're exhausted but excited. Eating some food then bed! Goodnight!

John Lose Jun 14, 2009 at 08:09 Stopping for lunch now in jensen beach. We got 15 miles in this morning going against the current. Eat well then start again at 2pm

John Lose Jun 14, 2009 at 03:14 Hitting the water now. Day 3: here we go. We are hoping to get 40 miles today

8563130234@vzwpix.com Jun 14, 2009 at 02:58 Things are going great. We got in another 29 miles today. I still feel fresh. Eating well. Bugs are bad. Heat is exhausting. We are having problems finding places to sleep/nap. Jesus answered our prayers tonight though! The sun had set, it was 9:30pm. We are desperately looking for a place to crash when a lightning storm came. Just then, we stumbled on a park with public dock! Praise the Lord! Going to bed now, waking up to start rowing again at 5:30. I feel great! Goodnight!

maher.larry@gmail.com Jun 13, 2009 at 22:44 Today's rowers just set out on their last 11 mile stretch. That will make it 30 on the day. Pray they get in safely Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

5163613865@vtext.com Jun 13, 2009 at 13:49 Napping under a palm tree in burt reynolds parkin jupiter Florida. 20 miles down with 10 more tonight.

maher.larry@gmail.com Jun 13, 2009 at 14:56 Feels great to get the first day under our belts. Had a late start to the day but the current was ripping north and got us where we needed to be. Camped out on a small island where the bugs were not very friendly. The boats hit the water this morning around 730. Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

John Lose Jun 13, 2009 at 03:24 Getting ready for day 2. We want to be in fort pierce tonight. Bugs are bad. Tides are crazy.

John Lose Jun 12, 2009 at 15:21 Just completed day one! We didnt get started until noon, but we got in 25 miles! We are setting up camp now on island in palm beach

Ryan Meyer Jun 12, 2009 at 12:24 Rock the Boat has begun. The boats left The Cove at 12 pm today. Wish 'em luck.

John Lose Jun 12, 2009 at 07:11 What did ppl do before GPS systems and cell phones? I have pics of my fam and sara in the boat to keep me motivated. God is with us

John Lose Jun 12, 2009 at 07:08 We are meeting with media at The Cove now. After talking to Jay Stern, we know this row will be much harder than any of us imagined

Ryan Meyer Jun 12, 2009 at 07:44 A huge thank you goes out to Jay Stern. Last night, Jay met us at The Cove, helped us set up the boats, bought us dinner, and paid for a boat slip for us to keep the boats overnight (the same place he and Rod kept their boat before their departure). After all that, he talked to us until 10:30 (despite having a two-hour drive home) about what to expect. It wasn't all good (or bad), but it's what we needed to hear. Thanks again Jay.

John Lose Jun 12, 2009 at 04:32 Rise and shine! Time to row!

Ryan Meyer Jun 12, 2009 at 01:14 We need to say thank you to everyone, as much as possible, along the way, so before we get started, i'd like to thank everyone who helped us get down here, before we shove off. Family, friends, and even strangers (for lack of a better word) have all given very generously in both time and money, and it is greatly appreciated. More specifically, at the moment, I would like to thank Mr. Bill Finnegan and his economics class from Archbishop Ryan High School in Northeast Philadelphia. They created a small business this year, turned a profit of $250, and donated the whole thing to Rock the Boat. Also, at the very beginning of our drive down here, we were on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, and a lady from North Carolina inquired about our boats. We told her briefly what we were doing, she wished us luck, and we moved inside to sit. Not much later, she came inside, wished us luck again, and handed us $100 and her phone number and address should we need anything once we were close. Thank you Sally Heath, and your daughter, for helping us Rock the Boat.

John Lose Jun 11, 2009 at 21:12 Headed to bed. Turning my phone off. This may be the last time you hear from me 4 a while. I love you Sara. I love you family.

John Lose Jun 11, 2009 at 16:57 Reality is starting to sink in. This is going to be much more difficult than any of us thought. But it is all for a good cause

John Lose Jun 11, 2009 at 15:13 We are at a public ramp now. We will row from the free public launch ramp back to the cove! Our first strokes!

John Lose Jun 11, 2009 at 14:50 Just arrived at the drop spot! The Cove. Thank you Jay Stern!

Ryan Meyer Jun 11, 2009 at 17:31 Rock the Boat for Autism will shove off tomorrow, June 11, 2009 from The Cove in Boca Raton; the same spot Oars for Cures (Jay Stern and Rod Pierce) started 20 years ago.

John Lose Jun 11, 2009 at 14:25 Hey i just wanted to give a warm thanks to all of the parents, family, and sponsors who made this thing possible! You all rock!

John Lose Jun 11, 2009 at 13:26 Food shopping now. It will be difficult to cook anything thats nuricious. If you have ideas email us Rocktheboatforautism@gmail.com

John Lose Jun 11, 2009 at 13:08 At walmart buying all the last second supplies. The weather in FL is too warm. The heat will be a challenge. We can not wait!

James O'Donoghue Jun 11, 2009 at 13:57 Almost there!

John Lose Jun 11, 2009 at 08:51 Apparently, news of Rock the Boat for Autism has traveled to Alaska! Our story is on the news there! Word travels fast I guess?

maher.larry@gmail.com Jun 11, 2009 at 14:32 Finally in florida. Beautiful Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

John Lose Jun 11, 2009 at 06:57 Finally in Florida! Change of plans, we are launching from ft. Lauderdale b/c a resort has heard of our cause and wants to host us!

John Lose Jun 10, 2009 at 15:07 To kill some time, Im reading "Relationships: A Mess Worth Making" by Tim Lane and Paul Tripp. Great book! I highly recommend it!

James O'Donoghue Jun 10, 2009 at 15:08 South Carolina... Thanks to the generous people we have met along the way and donated to the cause

John Lose Jun 10, 2009 at 07:03 The truck towing the boats got a flat tire, but we got it fixed. Thats how we roll

James O'Donoghue Jun 10, 2009 at 12:59 Back on the road now. Thanks for the support and make sure to check out our nnews coverage on nbcphiladelphia.com and searching rock the boat.

John Lose Jun 09, 2009 at 13:28 Just witnessed a very drunk man get pulled over and arrested for DUI. Hilarious! Its 4:00 on a Tuesday!

Ryan Meyer Jun 9, 2009 at 16:27 Delaware. We're in Delaware.

John Lose Jun 09, 2009 at 11:44 We are on our way to FL now. Very anxious to get started. I already miss my family and Sara. Pray for safety, wisdom and humility.

John Lose Jun 05, 2009 at 20:58 Leaving in a few days. Very busy recently. We're all very excited about our upcoming journey. Thanks to all who made it possible!

Justin Beerley Feb 20, 2009 at 22:34 Welcome to the Rock the Boat website. Bookmark us & check back frequently because the rowers will be updating this mobile blog often.