The day started with a visit to Rome’s most prominent landmark the Clock Tower which is situated on top of one of Rome’s Seven hills. The view from the top was spectacular which enabled us all to get a full perspective of the size and location of the city and its beautiful surrounding mountains. We then went back inside the clock tower and up to see the bell itself where Gareth was a little on edge due to all the spider webs lurking in the corners.
We then took a trip to the 911 Emergency Call Centre which was very informative before meeting a policeman with a real gun. He duly informed us that the state is making it easier for people to carry a gun on the street which although may seem a bit extreme for our UK readers, it’s considered a citizen’s right to ‘pack some heat’ around these parts. In fact, it’s quite legal to carry a loaded gun in the unlocked glove box of your car as it’s considered an extension of your own home. Well of course it is silly!
We then took a trip to the City’s water purification plant and it’s sewage treatment works which were very informative and educational. We noticed on the itinerary that we were also due to visit the local landfill site but unfortunately we did not get the time, however we do hope that our opposite numbers the USA GSE Team are not so unfortunate and get the chance of a full and detailed tour of Bredbury Tip at some point during their stay.
We were hosted for lunch by the Rome Rotary club where the team once again gave their presentation. This time to around 180 Rotarians and their respective guests which was the second largest audience thus far.
The afternoon saw each team member go their separate ways on individual vocational visits for the first time since arriving in Georgia. Gareth went to City Hall, Allison went The Chieftain’s House Museum, Andrea went to The West Central Elementary School, with special educational needs facilities, Steve visited The Fire Department of Rome and Roy got the chance to coach some local soccer scholorship boys and girls.
Steve muscled in on Gareth’s host family in the evening and went Mountain Biking with Stephan LaPoint. Stephan is an avid cyclist who’s collection of bikes, bits and tools would put Halfords to shame. A big shout out has to go to Cycle Therapy who provided Steve with a brand new Scott Spark 40 Mountain Bike for the ride.
Meanwhile the rest of the team went to watch the Rome Braves baseball team where they were treated to a VIP Suite with food and drink being served throughout the game. Unfortunately the Braves lost although none of the team could really understand what was happening they cheered and booed when prompted.
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