Mayors Across America - Intro

Mayors Across America
A 3,600 Mile Bicycle Journey Documenting the American Mayor

Newport Beach, CA April 10, 2009 The first time went too fast, so he did it again. When Ed Morris set out to ride his bike cross-country for the second time he did so with the idea of exploring the contrast between big city politics and small town reality. He rode in pursuit of answers to questions about government, leadership, and character; curious as to what images of community his lens would capture. The moving outcome of Eds journey is Mayors Across America, an insightful montage of the men and women who form a collective identity of our nation.

A bike is the perfect vehicle for traveling across the country. Ed Morris

Over a period of 59 days in 2000, Ed and his friend Tim Hovey traversed the country, charting a course through 13 states. Camping by night and peddling over 90 pounds of gear more than 60 miles by day, their route wound them through numerous cities and towns, many of which provided an opportunity to interview the Mayor thus capturing a snapshot of civic leadership and regional psyche. They developed a heightened sense of place, absorbing their surroundings from the unique vantage point of handlebars. The books images reflects this intimate view, honing in on the connection between environment, economy, and community.

The Mayor is the perfect vehicle for creating a collective portrait of the United States. Ed Morris

The challenges facing the mayor varied depending on the size of the city, but all of them had equal resonance with their constituency. In Washington D.C. (pop. 572, 059) Mayor Anthony Williams optimistically faced with issues endemic to a large metropolis. In Glenfield, North Dakota (pop. 134) Mayor Bob Boulvitsch spoke simply of exodus of the young, a very serious problem given the towns tiny size. In virtually every instance, the Mayor seemed to embody the civic spokesperson, the citizen who could best rise up to the demands of their community because they were one of them.

There is so much to see. Ed Morris

Mayors Across America is a visual journey that creates a powerful connection between people. It speaks to the hopes, dreams, challenges, and triumphs that comprise the patchwork populace of our diverse country. And it explores the quiet dignity that moves so many to become something more, the Mayor.

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[DynamoCorey]

whats the name of the song? great photos !

[EdMorrisPhotography]

@DynamoCorey

Bicycle Ride by Diesel Creek . Thank You!

[bbimaging]

Keep up the hard work. Can't wait to see the book.

[JKentJr]

Cool video, Ed! I love the animated feel of the photos on the road.

[PhaBaria]

Very inspiring! This is side of American I've only ever seen hinted at in movies—it's a revelation. Thanks for doing it. Found you via the Candid Frame interview.

[frijoleslocos]

as an aussie viewing this, i see a side of the USA that tourists never see- you have captured not just the sights, but the essence and spirit of your country and its people. amazing photography, amazing talent... can't wait to get my book!

[MEREDITHWERNER]

What a unique perspective of our country - thank you for sharing this amazing project with us!

[Hetchel]

Amazing journey. Great to watch a big slice of America through your eyes!

[garygladstone]

Fun stuff, Ed. Do they now call you "Robo-Legs?"

Gary Gladstone

[jr23apayor]

awesome photos