Stop 9 – Akron 

Well I’ve attempted to strike up conversation twice and it’s been an uphill battle. 

Attempt 1:

Me: so where are you headed? 

Him: Columbus, how about yourself? 

Chicago. 

And you have to go through Columbus? What kind of route is that?

Yeah I don’t know, not very efficient. 

I’d think you’d go straight there. 

I didn’t have much of a choice. So what takes you to Columbus? 

At this point he just sorta smiles, turns away, and starts typing on his phone.

Attempt 2:

Me: so do you make this trip often? 

Him: well sort of. This month I’ll be going more often. 

Oh? Why’s that? Where are you headed in Columbus? 

 I’m heading to the casino. 

Oh. (a potential connection, this should make conversation really start to flow) what do you play? 

Mostly slots. They’ve got some good ones down there, better than the ones in Cleveland. 

Oh (maybe not). Good enough to make this trip I guess? 

Yeah, plus they’re running a promotion this month on Saturdays and Wednesdays, so I get free play money on those days. 

Are there any table games? 

Yeah but I like to stick with slots. 

Cool. I enjoy playing poker when I’ve got the chance. 

Oh there’s a poker room in Columbus too. But I like the slots.