Down Da 66--Grants, We're #2, and Gas Pumps

Some recent news from Route 66.

1. CENTRAL CONNECTICUT STATE UNIVERSITY-- Route 66 sociologists who have led four student trips along Route 66 in the past five years have received a federal grant. Unfortunately, I couldn't find out any other information on it. However, I commend these professors. Anytime we can get the younger generation interested and even knowledgeable about old roads, that is a GOOD thing.

2. UK MOTORCYCLISTS RANK 66 NUMBER 2-- In a survey by Bennets Insurance and published on the UK's Motorcycle News, our road came up in second place with 27% of the vote. Number one was the 250 mile long Great Ocean Road in southern Australia. Third place was of interest, Southeast Asia's Ho Chi Minh Trail.

I didn't know that the Ho Chi Minh Trail was still open, but sure heard about it a lot during the Vietnam War. US troops being sent into Cambodia to attack this trail was what prompted the Kent State Massacre and the resulting turmoil on college campuses across the US back in 1970.

I can personally attest to how great a drive the Great Ocean Drive is, having toured that back in 2003. If you ever get to Melbourne, visit it.

3. JOLIET, ILLINOIS-- As part of their "Joliet Kicks on Rt. 66" campaign, five different fiberglass replica gas pumps have been placed around town. Each has a placard in back describing the significance of its location. They are located at:

Texaco by the Rialto
Mobil at the Joliet Area Historical Museum
Sinclair at the Will County Court House
Standard Oil at the intersection of Chicago and Cass streets.
Shell in the Route 66 Park

This was made possible in part by a $150,000 Attraction Grant from the Illinois Bureau of Tourism.

They also have a "Joliet Kicks on Rt 66" lighted ice cream cone at the Rich and Creamy Ice Cream stand next to the Route 66 Park, and a 12 foot tall "Joliet Kicks on Rt 66" shield in the park.

Personally, I would have liked to see a "Joliet Licks on Rt 66" sign at the ice cream stand. Pretty good play on words.

Now, if we could just get Dairy Queen to buy their original store, also located on Route 66 in Joliet. This would make a great place for a company museum.

However, Joliet is one Route 66 city that has definitely embraced its heritage. Congratulations.

Keep on Down that Two Lane Highway. --RoadDog