It's often hard to put into words the feeling of deep gratitude and appreciation. The past few days I've had the pleasure of being in Eaton Rapids attending Urban Air and I can't even begin to proclaim how amazing it was. Everything around it was focused towards community: from the town opening up their streets to over a hundred Airstreams to Airstreamers donating canned goods for a local charity called Hearts and Hands, this event was nothing short of riveting. Josh Rogan said it best when he said, "this is the best feel good event I think I have ever attended" and for someone who has been to numerous venues and music festivals, that is a bold statement and he couldn't be more accurate.
Urban Air was full of amazing opportunities even though the weather didn't cooperate as perfectly as planned. There were many events including a concert by Josh Rogan and a big swing band. There were community dinners that benefited a local charity, and of course a "Decoration" competition, which Melinda McCullen and her husband won with their English inspired Airstream.
Though it takes a full crew to pull off Urban Air, the two master minds behind it are Chad Carlson and Kirk Mackellar. If you've ever had the chance to meet them or ever do, you will see that their personalities embody the fun spirited and generous attitude that surrounds the Airstream lifestyle. They truly know what it means to live riveted and constantly explore new opportunities. One tip: if you meet Kirk, be sure to never call him "sir" as he prefers "dude."
Below are photos of the many amazing people I met and Airstreams I saw this weekend. There were Airstreams as old as 1955 and as new as 2016! A pretty remarkable sight considering some were built before my parents were born and in fact, before some of the current owners were born!
Lastly, a BIG shoutout goes to the town of Eaton Rapids for the warm welcome and for hosting Urban Air. I was blown away to see the community come together to welcome us - even the local cross country team took the time to offer their personal welcome and thanks to all the attendees! I met so many caring and helpful individuals throughout the weekend and one thing remained clear: the dream Wally started so long ago is definitely still lived out by many at events such as Urban Air. My hope is many more will have the opportunity to live riveted through events like this. Until next time, Eaton Rapids...
I will be on the road for most of the day headed towards Black Hills and Mount Rushmore. If you have suggestions for where I should stop along the way or ideas on what I should do while I'm there, let me know! Follow me using #LiveRivetedTour on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and be sure to leave your comments and suggestions. Also if anyone will be in the Black Hills/Mount Rushmore area, let me know as I would love to connect! I may have an Airstream present or two if you can find me.
Follow Brett Schwab as he embarks on the Live Riveted Tour, a two-month nationwide Airstream adventure. Along the way he’ll be joined by friends old and new, discovering new experiences and lending a helping hand to non-profits and charitable organizations along the way.
Keep up with his trip online at roadtrippers.com, by searching the hashtag #liverivetedtour and on Instagram. Share destinations he should visit, or even join him in his travels!
