I'm going have to hurry up and get myself out to one of our local Dog n Suds places before the end of October, because that's when they close for the season. Not much fun eating in your car or out in the picnic areas during the winter in northern Illinois.
We are fortunate here in northeast Illinois to have three of the remaining 18 US sites: Grayslake, Ingleside (Fox Lake) and Richmond, all within twenty miles of each other. However, I've only eaten at the one in Ingleside, a part of Fox Lake.
This one is Miller's Don n Suds Drive In and currently run by the second and third generations of the Miller family, with the fourth in training. It is located at the corner of Rollins Road and Washington Street. Last year it was featured in the Chicago Daily Herald as being one of Chicago's top ten hot dog places.
This drive-in was built by Jerry and Evelyn Miller in 1967 and run today by their son Roy and his son Brad Miller. Brad's son is in training.
A Real Retro Place. --RoadDog
RoadDog's RoadLog Blog: Being my travels down those great two lane highways of this nation as well as news I learn about them from media sources. Since I'm also very interested in historic preservation, there will be a lot of that as well.
The Shamrock Court Motel in Sullivan, Missouri. It can be yours for $125,000. Lots of possibilities. Actually, now you're too late. Missouri's Roamin' Rich bought it.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Drinkin' On the Chain Crawl-- Part 4
IllinoidTaking a look at the places on the challenge. Again, it would have been a LOT more fun back in the 70s or 80s.
FOX LAKE SITES
ELECRIC HARBOR-- On the east end. Small place, but they have a great large tiki bar out by the water with a great view looking west on the lake. Great sunsets. Docking can be rough though when the wind is blowing in from the west.
Some good specials. Mondays $3 bottles. Wednesdays $3 blended ice drinks and $2 brat and fries. They also own Captain's Quarters and Kross Inn in Ingleside (off the Chain).
MINEOLA-- West end of lake. On a big old 1890s hotel. Unfortunately, the owner is not keeping up with repairs and we're not sure how long we'll have it. Specials are $1 drafts Mondays and Wednesdays.
NATIONAL ATHLETIC CLUB-- Southern shore, about the middle of the lake. Private club most of the time, but they do allow boaters to come in.
BAJA BENNY'S-- Middle southern shore. Closed this year and not on the Crawl. It used to be Costello's, a place we spent lots of time at.
Good Time on the Chain. --RoadDog
FOX LAKE SITES
ELECRIC HARBOR-- On the east end. Small place, but they have a great large tiki bar out by the water with a great view looking west on the lake. Great sunsets. Docking can be rough though when the wind is blowing in from the west.
Some good specials. Mondays $3 bottles. Wednesdays $3 blended ice drinks and $2 brat and fries. They also own Captain's Quarters and Kross Inn in Ingleside (off the Chain).
MINEOLA-- West end of lake. On a big old 1890s hotel. Unfortunately, the owner is not keeping up with repairs and we're not sure how long we'll have it. Specials are $1 drafts Mondays and Wednesdays.
NATIONAL ATHLETIC CLUB-- Southern shore, about the middle of the lake. Private club most of the time, but they do allow boaters to come in.
BAJA BENNY'S-- Middle southern shore. Closed this year and not on the Crawl. It used to be Costello's, a place we spent lots of time at.
Good Time on the Chain. --RoadDog
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Drinkin' On the Chain Crawl 2011l-- Part 3
They're having the final Chain crawl party at Captain's Quarters October 8th, but we won't be there. We have been invited to the Northern Illinois-Kent State football game as guests of the university in thanks for our recently funded education scholarship.
Too bad. I would have like to have gone.
Here is a list of bars on the Chain that we went to since May. I'll also list as many former names of the places as I can and make comments
FOX LAKE
92 EAST-- Was Kevan's and before that Burger's Harbor (a small marina and boat shop on the channel where we keep out boat.
CAPTAIN'S QUARTERS-- Was Indian Point Bar. Also has an RV/trailer park. We spent a LOT of time here this past summer with bands Saturday nights from 7 to 11 and bands again Sunday afternoons from 3 to 7.
CHANNEL INN-- Listed on the Chain Guide, but didn't have to get them signed off in the passport book. Located on the other side of the Grand Avenue bridge across our channel. Great food.
DINO'S DEN-- Also on our channel. Was Fox Lair bar and restaurant before we started boating. Family restaurant. Our teachers group used to meet here every Friday for breakfast.
Many More to Come. --RoadDog
Too bad. I would have like to have gone.
Here is a list of bars on the Chain that we went to since May. I'll also list as many former names of the places as I can and make comments
FOX LAKE
92 EAST-- Was Kevan's and before that Burger's Harbor (a small marina and boat shop on the channel where we keep out boat.
CAPTAIN'S QUARTERS-- Was Indian Point Bar. Also has an RV/trailer park. We spent a LOT of time here this past summer with bands Saturday nights from 7 to 11 and bands again Sunday afternoons from 3 to 7.
CHANNEL INN-- Listed on the Chain Guide, but didn't have to get them signed off in the passport book. Located on the other side of the Grand Avenue bridge across our channel. Great food.
DINO'S DEN-- Also on our channel. Was Fox Lair bar and restaurant before we started boating. Family restaurant. Our teachers group used to meet here every Friday for breakfast.
Many More to Come. --RoadDog
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Drinking On the Chain Crawl 2011-- Part 2
Sadly, however, the number of bars on the Chains has dropped drastically since when we started boating in 1985. Back then, there were at least 80, but every year, we lose more and more. Back in the early 1900s, between the bars and resorts, there were at least 120.
At one time, Fox Lake, Illinois, at the center of the Chain of Lakes was in the record books as having the most bars per capita of any place in the US.
Usually they are torn down and McMansions built in their place. I deejayed extensively on the Chain at two of the places. One was Neptune's Cove on Fox Lake. It became Jukebox Saturday Night and then was torn down. Several big homes are there now.
I also was at Eagle Point Park, better known as the Puppet Bar, because of its hundred or so mechanical puppets that came to life whenever the polka "Mr. Puppet" was played in the jukebox or by me.
This place became Krystal's for awhile, closed, and then was torn down and homes built on it. During the summers I would start playing at the Puppet bar on Thursday night and play to Sunday afternoon. The people working there Saturday nights would often boat over to bars that stayed open until 4 am, catch a few hours sleep and then have Bloody Marys at Pirates Cove and then back to the Puppet Bar for breakfast.
Obviously, I couldn't do that any more.
I played at both of these places back in the 80s.
Those Were Some Real Fun Days. --RoadDog
At one time, Fox Lake, Illinois, at the center of the Chain of Lakes was in the record books as having the most bars per capita of any place in the US.
Usually they are torn down and McMansions built in their place. I deejayed extensively on the Chain at two of the places. One was Neptune's Cove on Fox Lake. It became Jukebox Saturday Night and then was torn down. Several big homes are there now.
I also was at Eagle Point Park, better known as the Puppet Bar, because of its hundred or so mechanical puppets that came to life whenever the polka "Mr. Puppet" was played in the jukebox or by me.
This place became Krystal's for awhile, closed, and then was torn down and homes built on it. During the summers I would start playing at the Puppet bar on Thursday night and play to Sunday afternoon. The people working there Saturday nights would often boat over to bars that stayed open until 4 am, catch a few hours sleep and then have Bloody Marys at Pirates Cove and then back to the Puppet Bar for breakfast.
Obviously, I couldn't do that any more.
I played at both of these places back in the 80s.
Those Were Some Real Fun Days. --RoadDog
Monday, September 26, 2011
The Chain Crawl Challenge 2011-- Part 1
The last several years, an organization has put together a Chain Crawl here in the Chain of Lakes in northeastern Illinois. This includes lakes and rivers in Lake and McHenry counties.
This is a great way to introduce new boaters to Chain establishments and gives us old boaters (we've had a boat on the Chain since 1985) something to do. There have been several parties as well as a big season finale next month.
Most bar/restaurants with water frontage on the Chain participated.
We've actually been to all them, accomplishing that in early August. However, some friends claim we cheated as we didn't boat to ever place, but sis the majority that way.
There were a total of 38 places, including one late entry that was closed at the start, then reopened. Another place was open at the beginning, then closed, then reopened.
There are also about twenty business partners where you can get extra credit for going to.
More to Come. --RoadDog
This is a great way to introduce new boaters to Chain establishments and gives us old boaters (we've had a boat on the Chain since 1985) something to do. There have been several parties as well as a big season finale next month.
Most bar/restaurants with water frontage on the Chain participated.
We've actually been to all them, accomplishing that in early August. However, some friends claim we cheated as we didn't boat to ever place, but sis the majority that way.
There were a total of 38 places, including one late entry that was closed at the start, then reopened. Another place was open at the beginning, then closed, then reopened.
There are also about twenty business partners where you can get extra credit for going to.
More to Come. --RoadDog
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Where is Cotton Hill Near Springfield, Illinois?-- Part 1
While we looking for where Route 66 went into and out of Lake Springfield, we kept coming across the name Cotton Hill. I got to wondering about the name. Why would a hill in Illinois have the name cotton? I doubt that much cotton was grown in the area. Perhaps the hill was named after the Cotton family?
And, where exactly is Cotton Hill?
We went to a Cotton Hill Park on the south side of the lake (both and East and a West Cotton Hill Park. We also turned off Toronto Road, north of the lake, onto a North Cotton Hill Road. So where is Cotton Hill and how did it get its name?
Wikipedia says there is a Cotton Hill Township in Sangamon County's southern part. It has a population of 1,065. Yahoo shows a Cotton Hill north of the lake. Cotton Hill Park is on a bluff overlooking Lake Springfield on its south side. Cotton Hill would not have stretched between the two points as it no doubt then would have formed a dam in the lake.
So, Where Is This Cotton Hill? --RoadDog
And, where exactly is Cotton Hill?
We went to a Cotton Hill Park on the south side of the lake (both and East and a West Cotton Hill Park. We also turned off Toronto Road, north of the lake, onto a North Cotton Hill Road. So where is Cotton Hill and how did it get its name?
Wikipedia says there is a Cotton Hill Township in Sangamon County's southern part. It has a population of 1,065. Yahoo shows a Cotton Hill north of the lake. Cotton Hill Park is on a bluff overlooking Lake Springfield on its south side. Cotton Hill would not have stretched between the two points as it no doubt then would have formed a dam in the lake.
So, Where Is This Cotton Hill? --RoadDog
Friday, September 23, 2011
Byrds and Buffalo on the Mizzou-Rah Trip
Talk about your "Trip on a Trip." Big time trip back to the sixties with these two albums (even if on CD). Guitars of all sorts and vocals like the aura.
FIFTH DIMENSION-- BYRDS
I had bought the CD Fifth Dimension by the Byrds the week before we left at our local mom/pop record store, Vinyl Frontier (good play on words there). Besides the three big hits: Fifth Dimension, Mr. Spaceman and Eight Miles High, I found Wild Mountain Thyme, I See You, Hey Joe and John Riley to be good as well. However, "2-4-2 Fox trot (The Lear Jet Song" was just plain weird. Wonder what they were smoking or doing at the time?
There were also six bonus tracks on the CD, of which they had two versions of "Why" and an alternate of "Eight Miles High." Good stuff.
I had never heard the album before.
BUFFALO SPRINGFIELD
I found this one at the Best Buy in Springfield, Illinois. CDs are getting scarce at many Best Buy stores, but not this one. Like the Byrds album, I had never heard this one before other than the ones they had on Retrospective, their greatest hits effort after they broke up.
I did have the Buffalo Springfield Again album. And, of course, heard this album's lead-off song "For What It's Worth" many, many times. This album was outstanding beginning to end. I especially liked "Go and Say Goodbye," "Pay the Price" and "Do I Have to Come Right Out and Say It."
Of course, I always knew Steve Stills and Neil Young were in the group, and was pretty sure Richie Furay was also. But, I always have a hard time remembering the other two. They are Dewey Martin (drums) and Bruce Palmer (bass).
I have heard a reunion of the group is planned. That would be something to see.
Sixties? Anybody? --RoadDog
FIFTH DIMENSION-- BYRDS
I had bought the CD Fifth Dimension by the Byrds the week before we left at our local mom/pop record store, Vinyl Frontier (good play on words there). Besides the three big hits: Fifth Dimension, Mr. Spaceman and Eight Miles High, I found Wild Mountain Thyme, I See You, Hey Joe and John Riley to be good as well. However, "2-4-2 Fox trot (The Lear Jet Song" was just plain weird. Wonder what they were smoking or doing at the time?
There were also six bonus tracks on the CD, of which they had two versions of "Why" and an alternate of "Eight Miles High." Good stuff.
I had never heard the album before.
BUFFALO SPRINGFIELD
I found this one at the Best Buy in Springfield, Illinois. CDs are getting scarce at many Best Buy stores, but not this one. Like the Byrds album, I had never heard this one before other than the ones they had on Retrospective, their greatest hits effort after they broke up.
I did have the Buffalo Springfield Again album. And, of course, heard this album's lead-off song "For What It's Worth" many, many times. This album was outstanding beginning to end. I especially liked "Go and Say Goodbye," "Pay the Price" and "Do I Have to Come Right Out and Say It."
Of course, I always knew Steve Stills and Neil Young were in the group, and was pretty sure Richie Furay was also. But, I always have a hard time remembering the other two. They are Dewey Martin (drums) and Bruce Palmer (bass).
I have heard a reunion of the group is planned. That would be something to see.
Sixties? Anybody? --RoadDog
Zydeco/Cajun, Country and 1967 on the Mizzou-Rah Trip
Traveling music when I'm on the road consists of CDs and local radio stations. I alternate between the two. I try to get CDs and certain songs to remind me of the particular trip.
I had four CDs with me on the trip and added three more in Springfield, Illinois.
A friend had given me a Paul Gregoire avec Roux Di Bayou CD. Some real good Cajun/Zydeco music. A lot of it is sung in French/Cajun.
I also had the new Eric Church album, "Chief." Now, that is some country kickin' music. A lot of drinkin' songs. I also especially liked the songs: Creepin', Drink in My Hand, Keep On and Country Music Jesus.
For good measure, it was a trip back to 1967 with a Time-Life compilation "The Beat Goes On." Some of the 22 songs: Gimme Little Sign, Let's Live for Today, Soul Man, Brown Eyed Girl, Carrie-Anne and (We Ain't Got) Nothin' Yet.
Tunes Playing While Driving Down the Road. Nothing Good be Finer. --RoadDog
I had four CDs with me on the trip and added three more in Springfield, Illinois.
A friend had given me a Paul Gregoire avec Roux Di Bayou CD. Some real good Cajun/Zydeco music. A lot of it is sung in French/Cajun.
I also had the new Eric Church album, "Chief." Now, that is some country kickin' music. A lot of drinkin' songs. I also especially liked the songs: Creepin', Drink in My Hand, Keep On and Country Music Jesus.
For good measure, it was a trip back to 1967 with a Time-Life compilation "The Beat Goes On." Some of the 22 songs: Gimme Little Sign, Let's Live for Today, Soul Man, Brown Eyed Girl, Carrie-Anne and (We Ain't Got) Nothin' Yet.
Tunes Playing While Driving Down the Road. Nothing Good be Finer. --RoadDog
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Iowa's Lincoln Highway's Youngville Cafe Safe...for Now Anyway
From the Sept. 21st Gazette (Iowa) "New interchange design would spare iconic cafe: The Youngville Cafe stands in the way of Highway 30 extension" by David DeWitte.
Plans for a new interchange at the intersection of US-182 and US-30 involve the historic building located there. US-30 will also be expanded to four lanes for the remaining two lane stretch in the area.
Right now, the cafe stays, but will have a gravel road connecting it to US-30 under the current plans.
It was built in 1931, three years after the Lincoln Highway was paved with intentions of providing food and fuel to travelers. Its distinctive architecture served customers for more than 50 years, but it closed after the construction of I-80 to the south drained the customer base.
Fortunately, the Youngville Cafe is protected because of its listing on the National Register of Historic Places who mandates that nothing can be done to the place when federal funds are used.
A local farmer owned the property and donated it to a historical preservation group which raised $100,000 to restore the place. It reopened in 2002 on a part-time basis as a cafe and museum.
We finally got to tour the inside during the Iowa Lincoln Highway Motor Tour a couple years ago. Some of the best pie I've ever had.
Always Good News When Something from the Past Is Saved. --RoadDog
Plans for a new interchange at the intersection of US-182 and US-30 involve the historic building located there. US-30 will also be expanded to four lanes for the remaining two lane stretch in the area.
Right now, the cafe stays, but will have a gravel road connecting it to US-30 under the current plans.
It was built in 1931, three years after the Lincoln Highway was paved with intentions of providing food and fuel to travelers. Its distinctive architecture served customers for more than 50 years, but it closed after the construction of I-80 to the south drained the customer base.
Fortunately, the Youngville Cafe is protected because of its listing on the National Register of Historic Places who mandates that nothing can be done to the place when federal funds are used.
A local farmer owned the property and donated it to a historical preservation group which raised $100,000 to restore the place. It reopened in 2002 on a part-time basis as a cafe and museum.
We finally got to tour the inside during the Iowa Lincoln Highway Motor Tour a couple years ago. Some of the best pie I've ever had.
Always Good News When Something from the Past Is Saved. --RoadDog
Route 66 in Illinois-- Part 3
Continued from September 1st. Taking a look at "The 66 News" magazine of the Route 66 Association of Illinois Summer 2011 issue.
Articles:
John Weiss "What is Preservation. With photos of Odell Station and Odell tunnel.
Checker Car Club of America National Convention in Springfield, Illinois June 16-18. Former Checker autos made from 1922-1982. Built Checker Cabs. I wouldn't know too much about cabs. Can't afford to ride in them.
A New Mining Museum in Godley. Also Route 66. I saw some of the Billy Connolly trip on 66 at Route 66 News and had never heard of the story of the house of ill-repute rail car pushed back and forth across county lines when raids were expected. Good one.
John Weiss also did an article on Billy Connolly. He led the TV crew across Illinois. If you get a chance, go to the Route 66 News blog and you can see the first show. Between the accent and comments, this has become one of my favorite shows on our road.
Another John Weiss article on the Red Carpet Corridor celebration back in May between Joliet and Towanda (of course, Bloomington-Normal would not be involved). He and Lenore were involved in it. We went on the one in 2010. Lots of fun that weekend.
Gardner Streetcar. Originally behind the Riviera. Now in Gardner where work has begun on it. Glad it didn't burn when the Riv did. Wonder what ever happened to the owner?
Half page ads for the Three Roses B&B in Pontiac, just 1 and a half blocks from the square.
Route 66 Beer. That great stuff, now made in Lebanon, Missouri. Make sure to visit Mr. C's while there. Another thing to do on the Route.
Just in Case You Didn't Know. --RoadDog
Articles:
John Weiss "What is Preservation. With photos of Odell Station and Odell tunnel.
Checker Car Club of America National Convention in Springfield, Illinois June 16-18. Former Checker autos made from 1922-1982. Built Checker Cabs. I wouldn't know too much about cabs. Can't afford to ride in them.
A New Mining Museum in Godley. Also Route 66. I saw some of the Billy Connolly trip on 66 at Route 66 News and had never heard of the story of the house of ill-repute rail car pushed back and forth across county lines when raids were expected. Good one.
John Weiss also did an article on Billy Connolly. He led the TV crew across Illinois. If you get a chance, go to the Route 66 News blog and you can see the first show. Between the accent and comments, this has become one of my favorite shows on our road.
Another John Weiss article on the Red Carpet Corridor celebration back in May between Joliet and Towanda (of course, Bloomington-Normal would not be involved). He and Lenore were involved in it. We went on the one in 2010. Lots of fun that weekend.
Gardner Streetcar. Originally behind the Riviera. Now in Gardner where work has begun on it. Glad it didn't burn when the Riv did. Wonder what ever happened to the owner?
Half page ads for the Three Roses B&B in Pontiac, just 1 and a half blocks from the square.
Route 66 Beer. That great stuff, now made in Lebanon, Missouri. Make sure to visit Mr. C's while there. Another thing to do on the Route.
Just in Case You Didn't Know. --RoadDog
To Show You How Bad Gas Prices Have Gotten: The Good Old Days of 2009
As we look at $3.50+ gas prices around the Chicago area (yesterday in Fox Lake, it "Dropped" to $3.74), I came across what we paid for gas on a trip a little over two years ago, after the Axis of Evil (Big Oil, the Middle East and speculators) had first pushed the price of gas over $4 in 2008.
After it hit that plateau, gas prices went into a rapid descent back below $2. Unfortunately, they learned from that and so far this onslaught haven't allowed that free fall to occur again.
This was a trip to Missouri and then to South Carolina, leaving March 19th.
3-19 $2.00 Pontiac, Il.
3-20 $1.96 Warrenton, Mo.
3-20 $1.80 Higginsville, Mo.
3-23 $1.80 Independence, Mo.
3-23 $1.80 Warrenton, Mo.
3-23 $1.92 Evansville, Ind.
3-24 $1.86 Corbin, Ky. (Home of the first KFC)
3-24 $1.86 Dandridge, Tn. (east of Knoxville and Gatlinburg, usually the cheapest in the area)
3-25 $1.86 Prosperity, SC
3-26 $1.80 Mt. Pleasant, SC
3-27 $1.97 Hilton Head, SC
3-28 $1.90 Jacksonboro, SC
3-31 $1.93 Charleston, SC
4-1 $1.96 Lexington, NC
4-1 $1.90 Wytheville, Va (In the Va. panhandle and the cheapest, especially after the W.Va prices.)
4-2 $2.00 Manchester, Ohio
4-3 $1.90 Crawfordsville, Ind. (Another cheap gas spot)
4-3 $2.06 Morris, Il
We put 3,777 miles on the '03 Malibu.
As you can see, the Axis was in the process of doing their "Pre-Summer Driving Season" price increase.
Ah! The Good Old Days, Two Years Ago. --RoadDog
After it hit that plateau, gas prices went into a rapid descent back below $2. Unfortunately, they learned from that and so far this onslaught haven't allowed that free fall to occur again.
This was a trip to Missouri and then to South Carolina, leaving March 19th.
3-19 $2.00 Pontiac, Il.
3-20 $1.96 Warrenton, Mo.
3-20 $1.80 Higginsville, Mo.
3-23 $1.80 Independence, Mo.
3-23 $1.80 Warrenton, Mo.
3-23 $1.92 Evansville, Ind.
3-24 $1.86 Corbin, Ky. (Home of the first KFC)
3-24 $1.86 Dandridge, Tn. (east of Knoxville and Gatlinburg, usually the cheapest in the area)
3-25 $1.86 Prosperity, SC
3-26 $1.80 Mt. Pleasant, SC
3-27 $1.97 Hilton Head, SC
3-28 $1.90 Jacksonboro, SC
3-31 $1.93 Charleston, SC
4-1 $1.96 Lexington, NC
4-1 $1.90 Wytheville, Va (In the Va. panhandle and the cheapest, especially after the W.Va prices.)
4-2 $2.00 Manchester, Ohio
4-3 $1.90 Crawfordsville, Ind. (Another cheap gas spot)
4-3 $2.06 Morris, Il
We put 3,777 miles on the '03 Malibu.
As you can see, the Axis was in the process of doing their "Pre-Summer Driving Season" price increase.
Ah! The Good Old Days, Two Years Ago. --RoadDog
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Gas Prices on the Missouri Trip
Gas in Illinois was by gar the highest on the trip. It was a high of $4.05 in the always super-expensive Elburn on September 6th. The BP station at Il-38 and Il-47 is always THE most expensive on Il-47, which is one of the most expensive roads outside of Chicago and Cook County. The Mobil station in town was a "paltry" $4.
When I use gas prices, I round the 9/10s of a cent up to the more realistic next higher penny. So, $3.99.9 becomes $4.
September 7th-- $3.60 just over the Iowa line in Missouri (across from Keokuk)
Sept. 7th-- Sedalia, Mo., $3.46
September 9th-- Ozark, Mo., $3.53
Sept. 10th-- Springfield, Mo., $3.53
Sept. 11th-- Rolla, Mo., $3.40
Sept. 11th-- Eureka, Mo., $3.20
Sept. 14th-- Springfield, Il., $3.55
Sept. 14th-- Pontiac, Il., $3.70
The following day, in Fox Lake, Il., the gas was $3.80, but it is even closer to Chicago.
Notice how much more expensive gas gets as you approach Rip-Off City, er, Chicago.
Why Should Gas By Chicago Be So Much More Expensive? --RoadDog
When I use gas prices, I round the 9/10s of a cent up to the more realistic next higher penny. So, $3.99.9 becomes $4.
September 7th-- $3.60 just over the Iowa line in Missouri (across from Keokuk)
Sept. 7th-- Sedalia, Mo., $3.46
September 9th-- Ozark, Mo., $3.53
Sept. 10th-- Springfield, Mo., $3.53
Sept. 11th-- Rolla, Mo., $3.40
Sept. 11th-- Eureka, Mo., $3.20
Sept. 14th-- Springfield, Il., $3.55
Sept. 14th-- Pontiac, Il., $3.70
The following day, in Fox Lake, Il., the gas was $3.80, but it is even closer to Chicago.
Notice how much more expensive gas gets as you approach Rip-Off City, er, Chicago.
Why Should Gas By Chicago Be So Much More Expensive? --RoadDog
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Visiting with Bill Shea and Ernie Edwards on Route 66-- Part 4: Ernie Edwards
We had been considering visiting Ernie Edwards at the nursing home we heard he was at in Lincoln, Illinois. Knowing how much he likes talking with people, we figured he would be pretty miserable in a nursing home if he didn't get a lot of visitors.
We were fortunate that Lulu and Barb took the initiative and stopped off for a visit both on and coming back from the Missouri 66 Motor Tour. They gave us the address of the place and told us Ernie definitely wanted to see fellow 66ers.
After stopping at Hallie's on the Lincoln Court House Square for lunch (where you can get an original so we didn't arrive during the home's lunch, we went to the place (which is on an old alignment of Route 66).
On the way up to the second floor, a nurse told us they had tried to get Ernie to play Bingo, but he would have nothing to do with it. We suggested letting him call the numbers. She replied that they'd never finish the game if they did. I guess they know him.
We found him on the second floor, sitting by himself. And, he was sure happy to see us. No big surprise, he is not happy to be there and wants to get back to his home. He said that Fran was having an operation at the hospital today, but hadn't heard anything about it.
He seemed a bit confused at first, but once he started telling his stories, he was the same Old Coot on Route 66 that we had known for all these years.
If you're around Lincoln, Illinois, stop in.
Ernie needs Us. --RoadDog
We were fortunate that Lulu and Barb took the initiative and stopped off for a visit both on and coming back from the Missouri 66 Motor Tour. They gave us the address of the place and told us Ernie definitely wanted to see fellow 66ers.
After stopping at Hallie's on the Lincoln Court House Square for lunch (where you can get an original so we didn't arrive during the home's lunch, we went to the place (which is on an old alignment of Route 66).
On the way up to the second floor, a nurse told us they had tried to get Ernie to play Bingo, but he would have nothing to do with it. We suggested letting him call the numbers. She replied that they'd never finish the game if they did. I guess they know him.
We found him on the second floor, sitting by himself. And, he was sure happy to see us. No big surprise, he is not happy to be there and wants to get back to his home. He said that Fran was having an operation at the hospital today, but hadn't heard anything about it.
He seemed a bit confused at first, but once he started telling his stories, he was the same Old Coot on Route 66 that we had known for all these years.
If you're around Lincoln, Illinois, stop in.
Ernie needs Us. --RoadDog
A WXRT Labor Day Road Trip Playlist-- Part 6
38. SOMETHING IN THE AIR-- THUNDERCLAP NEWMAN-- "Quintessential roadtrip song." (I never thought of it as a road song, but after listening to it more closely, it is.)
39. RADAR LOVE-- GOLDEN EARRING-- "...is specifically designed to force everyone in the car to pump their fists and shout like fools late into the night." (Oh Yeah!)
40. SLOW RIDE-- FOGHAT-- "Whether on your way to purchase Aerosmith tickets or just driving to visit your dear old grandmother, this song will get you excited."
41. CROSSTOWN TRAFFIC-- JIMI HENDRIX-- "The cure for battling the inevitable traffic you encounter on the road."
42. *STRANGE TIMES-- BLACK KEYES-- "Pretty much all Black Keyes music is fit for a fast, fun road trip." (I've been coming across their name a lot lately. Guess I'll have to check 'em out.)
43. *LAY LOW-- MY MIXED JACKET-- "Builds and builds."
44. *CAMARILLO BRILLO-- FRANK ZAPPA-- some "silly lyrics"
45. HIGHWAY 61 REVISITED-- BOB DYLAN-- "Like a Rolling Stone driving through."
Happy Motoring. --RoadDog
39. RADAR LOVE-- GOLDEN EARRING-- "...is specifically designed to force everyone in the car to pump their fists and shout like fools late into the night." (Oh Yeah!)
40. SLOW RIDE-- FOGHAT-- "Whether on your way to purchase Aerosmith tickets or just driving to visit your dear old grandmother, this song will get you excited."
41. CROSSTOWN TRAFFIC-- JIMI HENDRIX-- "The cure for battling the inevitable traffic you encounter on the road."
42. *STRANGE TIMES-- BLACK KEYES-- "Pretty much all Black Keyes music is fit for a fast, fun road trip." (I've been coming across their name a lot lately. Guess I'll have to check 'em out.)
43. *LAY LOW-- MY MIXED JACKET-- "Builds and builds."
44. *CAMARILLO BRILLO-- FRANK ZAPPA-- some "silly lyrics"
45. HIGHWAY 61 REVISITED-- BOB DYLAN-- "Like a Rolling Stone driving through."
Happy Motoring. --RoadDog
Monday, September 19, 2011
A WXRT Labor Day Road Trip Playlist-- Part 5
I went to the WXRT site, but couldn't find the list. But, I did find it on a search using the headline of this entry.
Prepare to take a road trip yourself and hear some songs you haven't heard before as well as those you have heard.
I was able to look up #30 and see what it actually was. I had it down as "Firebird" by L.S. when I wrote it down. My handwriting often in illegible, even to me, especially when I'm writing fast. Turns out the song was "Freebird" by Lynyrd Skynyrd. So, that's what L.S. stood for. Duh and Double Duh. I have already gone back and changed it.
Gotta Work on My Handwriting. --RoadDog
Prepare to take a road trip yourself and hear some songs you haven't heard before as well as those you have heard.
I was able to look up #30 and see what it actually was. I had it down as "Firebird" by L.S. when I wrote it down. My handwriting often in illegible, even to me, especially when I'm writing fast. Turns out the song was "Freebird" by Lynyrd Skynyrd. So, that's what L.S. stood for. Duh and Double Duh. I have already gone back and changed it.
Gotta Work on My Handwriting. --RoadDog
A WXRT Labor Day Road Trip Playlist-- Part 4
31. PARADISE BY THE DASHBOARD LIGHT-- MEATLOAF-- Great song to sing along with, anytime, anywhere.
32. MIDNIGHT RIDER-- ALLMAN BROTHERS-- Don't let 'em catch you. (And, the road goes on forever.)
33. RAMBLE ON-- LED ZEPPELIN-- "Badass rock song...Lord of the Rings as well."
34. TURN THE PAGE-- BOB SEGER-- "The lyrics in this song speak directly to those of you out on those long lonely highways, driving for hours." ("Fast of Omaha....")
35. LITTLE DEUCE COUPE-- BEACH BOYS-- "Forces you to bop up and down." (How do you get better car songs from a group?)
36. *ROAD TRIPPIN'-- RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS-- "You can only hope your road trip is half as cool as this one."
37. *GENERATION LANDSLIDE-- ALICE COOPER--
One More Group to Come. --RoadDog
32. MIDNIGHT RIDER-- ALLMAN BROTHERS-- Don't let 'em catch you. (And, the road goes on forever.)
33. RAMBLE ON-- LED ZEPPELIN-- "Badass rock song...Lord of the Rings as well."
34. TURN THE PAGE-- BOB SEGER-- "The lyrics in this song speak directly to those of you out on those long lonely highways, driving for hours." ("Fast of Omaha....")
35. LITTLE DEUCE COUPE-- BEACH BOYS-- "Forces you to bop up and down." (How do you get better car songs from a group?)
36. *ROAD TRIPPIN'-- RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS-- "You can only hope your road trip is half as cool as this one."
37. *GENERATION LANDSLIDE-- ALICE COOPER--
One More Group to Come. --RoadDog
Saturday, September 17, 2011
A WXRT Labor Day Road Trip Playlist-- Part 3
Continued from September 6th. An asterisk means I had never heard the song before.
21. ON THE ROAD AGAIN-- WILLIE NELSON-- "No roadtrip is considered legit without playing this song. It's the law." (I concur.)
22. MUSTANG SALLY-- WILSON PICKETT-- (The Wicked Pickett at His Finest.)
23. MERCEDES BENZ-- JANIS JOPLIN--- "A plea from Janis. (I still like Goosecreek Symphony's version better.)
24. *FINGERPRINT FILE-- ROLLING STONES--
25. *THE WEDGE-- PHISH-- "...taking the highway to the Great Divide' A bubbling, building rhythm.
26. NEW SPEEDWAY BOOGIE-- GRATEFUL DEAD-- a "country outlaw style tune."
27. TRUCKIN'-- GRATEFUL DEAD-- (If they would just stop all that annoying jamming at concerts.)
28. *RHYTHM OF THE ROAD-- STRING CHEESE INCIDENT-- "Jazzy, then into overdrive." (What a unique name for a group. Wonder how they came up with it.)
29. SISTER GOLDEN HAIR-- AMERICA-- "Sunshine 70s pop at its finest."
30. FREEBIRD-- LYNYRD SKYNYRD-- "Potentially cliche'..." (But.)
Fifteen More to Go. --RoadDog
21. ON THE ROAD AGAIN-- WILLIE NELSON-- "No roadtrip is considered legit without playing this song. It's the law." (I concur.)
22. MUSTANG SALLY-- WILSON PICKETT-- (The Wicked Pickett at His Finest.)
23. MERCEDES BENZ-- JANIS JOPLIN--- "A plea from Janis. (I still like Goosecreek Symphony's version better.)
24. *FINGERPRINT FILE-- ROLLING STONES--
25. *THE WEDGE-- PHISH-- "...taking the highway to the Great Divide' A bubbling, building rhythm.
26. NEW SPEEDWAY BOOGIE-- GRATEFUL DEAD-- a "country outlaw style tune."
27. TRUCKIN'-- GRATEFUL DEAD-- (If they would just stop all that annoying jamming at concerts.)
28. *RHYTHM OF THE ROAD-- STRING CHEESE INCIDENT-- "Jazzy, then into overdrive." (What a unique name for a group. Wonder how they came up with it.)
29. SISTER GOLDEN HAIR-- AMERICA-- "Sunshine 70s pop at its finest."
30. FREEBIRD-- LYNYRD SKYNYRD-- "Potentially cliche'..." (But.)
Fifteen More to Go. --RoadDog
Friday, September 16, 2011
Visiting With Bill Shea and Ernie Edwards on Route 66-- Part 3: Two More Bill Shea Stories
Bill Shea, "I'm pushing ninety and it's pushing back. When I hit 90, I'll start taking it easy and working half days."
And, here I am retired since I was 55.
Bill Shea, "Visitors often ask what the correct pronunciation of the "Route" in Route 66 is.
Hey, he's been there long enough. If anybody would know, it would be him.
Bill diplomatically says, "Either Root or Route. But before it was paved, they just called it 'rut'."
Personally, I cringe when I hear the "Route" pronunciation.
Ya Just Gotta Love That Bill!! --RoadDog
And, here I am retired since I was 55.
Bill Shea, "Visitors often ask what the correct pronunciation of the "Route" in Route 66 is.
Hey, he's been there long enough. If anybody would know, it would be him.
Bill diplomatically says, "Either Root or Route. But before it was paved, they just called it 'rut'."
Personally, I cringe when I hear the "Route" pronunciation.
Ya Just Gotta Love That Bill!! --RoadDog
Visiting With Bill Shea and Ernie Edwards on Route 66-- Part 2: A World War II Story
Great World War II story from Bill Shea.
Mr. Shea was at D-Day during World War II and we got to talking about it (as we approach the 70th anniversary of Pearl Harbor).
I mentioned about the LST-325 that is touring the Illinois River at the current time. Bill said he landed on Omaha Beach in a Higgins Boat, the one you see Tom Hanks on in "Saving Private Ryan." He said that the guys running the boat would always drop that front end way out in the water so that the soldiers would be completely inundated when they stepped off it. That was particularly bad for him as he was short to begin with.
Making the disembarkation worse was that the Higgins Boat had stopped over some shell craters caused by the huge bombardment that preceded the landings.
He'll never forget the guy from Louisiana who left the boat when he did. When the two managed to surface, the Louisianan sputtered, "This will be an even easier landing for the bastards behind us because I just drank half the channel."
Mr. Shea still has sand taken from the beach on D-Day as well as some dragon teeth from an emblem from the German line and rocks from the cliff scaled by US forces at D-Day.
Now, That's a Good Story! --RoadDog
Mr. Shea was at D-Day during World War II and we got to talking about it (as we approach the 70th anniversary of Pearl Harbor).
I mentioned about the LST-325 that is touring the Illinois River at the current time. Bill said he landed on Omaha Beach in a Higgins Boat, the one you see Tom Hanks on in "Saving Private Ryan." He said that the guys running the boat would always drop that front end way out in the water so that the soldiers would be completely inundated when they stepped off it. That was particularly bad for him as he was short to begin with.
Making the disembarkation worse was that the Higgins Boat had stopped over some shell craters caused by the huge bombardment that preceded the landings.
He'll never forget the guy from Louisiana who left the boat when he did. When the two managed to surface, the Louisianan sputtered, "This will be an even easier landing for the bastards behind us because I just drank half the channel."
Mr. Shea still has sand taken from the beach on D-Day as well as some dragon teeth from an emblem from the German line and rocks from the cliff scaled by US forces at D-Day.
Now, That's a Good Story! --RoadDog
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Visiting with Bill Shea and Ernie Edwards on Route 66-- Part 1: Clutter, What Clutter?
Yesterday, we finally for home after nine days on the road, quite a bit of it on Route 66.
I got gas at the Road Ranger next to the TraveLodge, $3.54, and then went to Mel-O-Cream for a couple of their great doughnuts.
Drove 66 through Springfield, Illinois, and stopped at Bill Shea's on Peoria Road. We hadn't been there for a few years and Bill and his family are completely ingrained on the road.
His son was outside and paid him our $2 apiece to get in. Surprisingly, Bill, Jr., remembered us. We talked about how the people a couple bocks away from the station wouldn't know the station was on Route 66, just Peoria Road. Sad.
Bill Shea was giving another couple a tour. After they left, we went on the tour. Shea's has gotten somewhat modern with the acquisition of an old ATM Machine from a bank. They took it apart and Bill says there wasn't even a penny in it.
Right before we left, Mrs. Shea came in after her hair appointment. Liz and her were talking and she remarked, "See, this is what you get when you NEVER throw anything away," referring to the somewhat cluttered station and property. Liz looked at me for some reason. What? Me Clutter? Not Me.
A Real Route 66 Icon. --RoadDog
I got gas at the Road Ranger next to the TraveLodge, $3.54, and then went to Mel-O-Cream for a couple of their great doughnuts.
Drove 66 through Springfield, Illinois, and stopped at Bill Shea's on Peoria Road. We hadn't been there for a few years and Bill and his family are completely ingrained on the road.
His son was outside and paid him our $2 apiece to get in. Surprisingly, Bill, Jr., remembered us. We talked about how the people a couple bocks away from the station wouldn't know the station was on Route 66, just Peoria Road. Sad.
Bill Shea was giving another couple a tour. After they left, we went on the tour. Shea's has gotten somewhat modern with the acquisition of an old ATM Machine from a bank. They took it apart and Bill says there wasn't even a penny in it.
Right before we left, Mrs. Shea came in after her hair appointment. Liz and her were talking and she remarked, "See, this is what you get when you NEVER throw anything away," referring to the somewhat cluttered station and property. Liz looked at me for some reason. What? Me Clutter? Not Me.
A Real Route 66 Icon. --RoadDog
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Enjoying Music Outside on a Tuesday Night on Route 66
Few things in life better than sitting outside on a warm late summer's night, enjoying ice cold draft beer and listening to a duo play music in a beer garden in an authentic 1930s Route 66 roadhouse. And all this after a day of cruising and searching on the fabled old road.
But, that is exactly what we did last night at the Curve Inn in Springfield, Illinois.
We already knew they had bands playing after work Friday afternoons from 6 to 10 as well as bands Saturday nights. Evidently, they have this duo playing acoustic guitars on Tuesdays during the summer and fall.
Earlier in the day, after discovering and cruising some Route 66 alignments south of Lake Springfield and then going over to the brick alignment by Il-4 and visiting Becky and her husband at Becky's Barn, we had done a bot of bar hopping on our own, again.
We started at Capital City again and played NTN with JJ.
NORB ANDY'S
Then drove downtown to Norb Andy's which was open (they're closed Sundays and Mondays). Norb Andy's is one place every Route 66er should visit. What a piece of history.
Yesterday I mentioned that the horseshoe was invented here, but actually it was at the hotel across the street but they still have the "top secret" cheese sauce.
Unfortunately, we also heard from several more sources that Scooter's, the old George Ranks had closed up last week.
Here's hoping someone else reopens it.
But at Least We Have Norb Andy's Back. --RoadDog
But, that is exactly what we did last night at the Curve Inn in Springfield, Illinois.
We already knew they had bands playing after work Friday afternoons from 6 to 10 as well as bands Saturday nights. Evidently, they have this duo playing acoustic guitars on Tuesdays during the summer and fall.
Earlier in the day, after discovering and cruising some Route 66 alignments south of Lake Springfield and then going over to the brick alignment by Il-4 and visiting Becky and her husband at Becky's Barn, we had done a bot of bar hopping on our own, again.
We started at Capital City again and played NTN with JJ.
NORB ANDY'S
Then drove downtown to Norb Andy's which was open (they're closed Sundays and Mondays). Norb Andy's is one place every Route 66er should visit. What a piece of history.
Yesterday I mentioned that the horseshoe was invented here, but actually it was at the hotel across the street but they still have the "top secret" cheese sauce.
Unfortunately, we also heard from several more sources that Scooter's, the old George Ranks had closed up last week.
Here's hoping someone else reopens it.
But at Least We Have Norb Andy's Back. --RoadDog
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Bar-Hopping on Route 66 in Springfield
If we are in Springfield, Illinois, we must be hitting some of our favorite bars.
After our Route 66 quest yesterday, we drove over to Capital City Bar and Grill in the shopping center by where Dirksen and Stevenson expressways join (the old Route 66 bypass). The Hampton Inn is located next door.
They had $6 pitchers on Monday, but all the draft lines were down. Settled for $2.50 bottles. Met our friend JJ (who works at the Abraham Lincoln Museum and Library and is a big NTN nut like us) and played several games. He was quite proud of himself as he passed the 12 million Player Plus mark. I'd say he should get a life, but both of us have already passed that mark.
Then, we drove downtown figuring on visiting Norb Andy's (where supposedly the horseshoe sandwich was first served), but it must be closed on Mondays. Then to Scooter's (the old George Rank's) the round bar next to that great old neon car wash sign, but it was also closed.
THE CURVE AND THE PUB
So, on to the Curve Inn where we had $1.50 pints and watched most of the Miami-New England game. The bartender said she had heard that Scooter's had been closed down by the city.
Last stop at the Southside Pub at the TraveLodge Motel where we are staying. They had a pitcher/pizza deal for $11, but their draft was also down. Settled again for $2.50 bottles. Saw the end of the Miami game. So tired of the Patriots always winning. If pretty boy Brady pushes his hair back out of his face anymore on the sideline, he'll be pulling his hair out.
WHAT, NO MASON PROFFIT "HANGMEN?"
The bartender was putting some music on and one of the guys at the bar wanted her to play "Two Hangmen" by Mason Proffit. You don't meet too many people who remember that great 60s-70s band, so we got to talking about them, Goose Creek Symphony and Pure Prairie League.
I just had to play "Two Hangmen" and did a search on the jukebox. They actually had four Mason Proffit songs, but did have "Two Hangmen." If you are going to have the group, you HAVE to have "Hangmen." They did have "Stewball" though.
But, I wasn't going to spend a buck to play "Stewball." So looked up Goose Creek Symphony and they had one, and this was the one you want to hear by them, the old Janis song, "Mercedes Benz." I like their version better.
Spent my buck on that.
BEST-EVER SWEET POTATO FRIES
August 1st, Abe's South Side Cafe opened in the TraveLodge building. They also handle food in the pub. We ordered their sweet potato fries which they are quite proud of and boast, "These are the best sweet potato fries you'll ever have."
They weren't lying. They ARE the best we've ever had, and we've had some great ones. Check it out the next time you're in town.
And, Coming Up Soon Will Be a Springfield Bar Crawl. --RoadDog
After our Route 66 quest yesterday, we drove over to Capital City Bar and Grill in the shopping center by where Dirksen and Stevenson expressways join (the old Route 66 bypass). The Hampton Inn is located next door.
They had $6 pitchers on Monday, but all the draft lines were down. Settled for $2.50 bottles. Met our friend JJ (who works at the Abraham Lincoln Museum and Library and is a big NTN nut like us) and played several games. He was quite proud of himself as he passed the 12 million Player Plus mark. I'd say he should get a life, but both of us have already passed that mark.
Then, we drove downtown figuring on visiting Norb Andy's (where supposedly the horseshoe sandwich was first served), but it must be closed on Mondays. Then to Scooter's (the old George Rank's) the round bar next to that great old neon car wash sign, but it was also closed.
THE CURVE AND THE PUB
So, on to the Curve Inn where we had $1.50 pints and watched most of the Miami-New England game. The bartender said she had heard that Scooter's had been closed down by the city.
Last stop at the Southside Pub at the TraveLodge Motel where we are staying. They had a pitcher/pizza deal for $11, but their draft was also down. Settled again for $2.50 bottles. Saw the end of the Miami game. So tired of the Patriots always winning. If pretty boy Brady pushes his hair back out of his face anymore on the sideline, he'll be pulling his hair out.
WHAT, NO MASON PROFFIT "HANGMEN?"
The bartender was putting some music on and one of the guys at the bar wanted her to play "Two Hangmen" by Mason Proffit. You don't meet too many people who remember that great 60s-70s band, so we got to talking about them, Goose Creek Symphony and Pure Prairie League.
I just had to play "Two Hangmen" and did a search on the jukebox. They actually had four Mason Proffit songs, but did have "Two Hangmen." If you are going to have the group, you HAVE to have "Hangmen." They did have "Stewball" though.
But, I wasn't going to spend a buck to play "Stewball." So looked up Goose Creek Symphony and they had one, and this was the one you want to hear by them, the old Janis song, "Mercedes Benz." I like their version better.
Spent my buck on that.
BEST-EVER SWEET POTATO FRIES
August 1st, Abe's South Side Cafe opened in the TraveLodge building. They also handle food in the pub. We ordered their sweet potato fries which they are quite proud of and boast, "These are the best sweet potato fries you'll ever have."
They weren't lying. They ARE the best we've ever had, and we've had some great ones. Check it out the next time you're in town.
And, Coming Up Soon Will Be a Springfield Bar Crawl. --RoadDog
Searching for the Original 66 in Lake Springfield
To borrow part of the title of Tom Teague's great book.
Yesterday afternoon, at Lulu's "suggestion" when she learned we had never seen where one of the early Route 66 alignments was covered by Lake Springfield back in the 1930s, we went looking for it.
We went south on I-55 and turned at Toronto Road and took it east to Cotton Hill Road, turned right and took it past several nice subdivisions to the barricade which marks as far as you can drive. A little ways past it is where 66 enters the lake.
We then back-tracked on Cotton Hill Road (Wonder how it got its name? I doubt that much cotton was grown around Springfield.) past Toronto and as far north as to where I-55 cuts it off and on back around to Toronto.
LOOKING FOR IT ON THE OTHER SIDE
If it goes in on the north side of Lake Springfield, it must come out on the south side of it. That became our next quest.
Back on I-55, across the lake and the first exit onto East Lake Shore Drive and again headed east. This is one of the prettiest drives along a road we've ever been on. Ended up at the Lincoln Memorial Garden and took a walk around it. Very rustic and they said this is part of the landscape Lincoln would be familiar with back in his Springfield days.
Drove back west to two Cotton Hill parks figuring those to be a likely spot for 66 on that side, but didn't see anything that would suggest it. The larger park lets you get right up to the lake with all that pretty scenery.
NOT GIVING UP
We'll look for it again today, but I have been to a site with detailed directions and photos so shouldn't have a problem finding the south shore 66.
We'll take the Route 66 drive to Glenarm on County Road 1 E.
Perhaps then to Becky's Barn and a visit to Bill Shea's.
Looking for That Original Stuff. --RoadDog
Yesterday afternoon, at Lulu's "suggestion" when she learned we had never seen where one of the early Route 66 alignments was covered by Lake Springfield back in the 1930s, we went looking for it.
We went south on I-55 and turned at Toronto Road and took it east to Cotton Hill Road, turned right and took it past several nice subdivisions to the barricade which marks as far as you can drive. A little ways past it is where 66 enters the lake.
We then back-tracked on Cotton Hill Road (Wonder how it got its name? I doubt that much cotton was grown around Springfield.) past Toronto and as far north as to where I-55 cuts it off and on back around to Toronto.
LOOKING FOR IT ON THE OTHER SIDE
If it goes in on the north side of Lake Springfield, it must come out on the south side of it. That became our next quest.
Back on I-55, across the lake and the first exit onto East Lake Shore Drive and again headed east. This is one of the prettiest drives along a road we've ever been on. Ended up at the Lincoln Memorial Garden and took a walk around it. Very rustic and they said this is part of the landscape Lincoln would be familiar with back in his Springfield days.
Drove back west to two Cotton Hill parks figuring those to be a likely spot for 66 on that side, but didn't see anything that would suggest it. The larger park lets you get right up to the lake with all that pretty scenery.
NOT GIVING UP
We'll look for it again today, but I have been to a site with detailed directions and photos so shouldn't have a problem finding the south shore 66.
We'll take the Route 66 drive to Glenarm on County Road 1 E.
Perhaps then to Becky's Barn and a visit to Bill Shea's.
Looking for That Original Stuff. --RoadDog
Monday, September 12, 2011
A Morning Jaunt Around Springfield
Very disappointed that the TraveLodge had already drained their pool. We have some great warm days in September as well.
Met Lulu and Barb as they were checking out. We were a bit delayed going to breakfast while Lulu "straightened out" the desk clerk, who, even as a life-time Springfield resident, didn't know much about Route 66. That is never a good thing to admit to around Lulu. She will "straighten you out."
Drove to Charlie Parker's for some great chow. Lots of it, mighty good and for a great price. Talked 66 while eating. Really fine chicken-fried steak, and this is a place where you can get a Breakfast Shoe.
I had a tasty vegetable omelet with four types of veggies and cheese as well as toast (get the wheat which is Texas-sized) and hash browns.
They were headed over to Cozy Dog to pick up Cozy Dogs for Ernie and Fran Edwards at the nursing home in Lincoln. Mighty nice of them do do that.
We drove past the Lauterbach Giant on Wabash Street, who usually holds a tire and lost his head in a tornado a few years ago. Today, he was holding an American flag.
OUT SHOPPING
Out to Veterans Parkway (Ill-4) and looked at a Barnes and Noble Bookstore. How much longer will we have them? I always enjoy looking at the bargain books. I sure miss my old Borders store.
Also went to the nearby Best Buy. I used to go to Best Buys and Circuit Cities all the time. Of course, there is no longer a Circuit City (although we did see a nearby sign for one). I don't go to Best Buy much anymore because I don't know how to use most of their electronics. The Salvation Army Thrift Store is more my speed these days.
And. most Best Buys have fewer and fewer CDs, but this one had a huge collection so spent awhile in there before buying the new George Strait and Eli Young CDs as well as the first Buffalo Springfield album (well, CD).
Time for a Nap After All That Food. --RoadDog
Met Lulu and Barb as they were checking out. We were a bit delayed going to breakfast while Lulu "straightened out" the desk clerk, who, even as a life-time Springfield resident, didn't know much about Route 66. That is never a good thing to admit to around Lulu. She will "straighten you out."
Drove to Charlie Parker's for some great chow. Lots of it, mighty good and for a great price. Talked 66 while eating. Really fine chicken-fried steak, and this is a place where you can get a Breakfast Shoe.
I had a tasty vegetable omelet with four types of veggies and cheese as well as toast (get the wheat which is Texas-sized) and hash browns.
They were headed over to Cozy Dog to pick up Cozy Dogs for Ernie and Fran Edwards at the nursing home in Lincoln. Mighty nice of them do do that.
We drove past the Lauterbach Giant on Wabash Street, who usually holds a tire and lost his head in a tornado a few years ago. Today, he was holding an American flag.
OUT SHOPPING
Out to Veterans Parkway (Ill-4) and looked at a Barnes and Noble Bookstore. How much longer will we have them? I always enjoy looking at the bargain books. I sure miss my old Borders store.
Also went to the nearby Best Buy. I used to go to Best Buys and Circuit Cities all the time. Of course, there is no longer a Circuit City (although we did see a nearby sign for one). I don't go to Best Buy much anymore because I don't know how to use most of their electronics. The Salvation Army Thrift Store is more my speed these days.
And. most Best Buys have fewer and fewer CDs, but this one had a huge collection so spent awhile in there before buying the new George Strait and Eli Young CDs as well as the first Buffalo Springfield album (well, CD).
Time for a Nap After All That Food. --RoadDog
Don't Wake Until Spring
This morning, I took the "Do Not Wake" sign and put it on the door so no one would disturb Liz who was sleeping in. Of course, I didn't pay any attention to it, just slid it over the outside door knob.
As we were leaving for Charlie Parker's for breakfast, Liz asked me if I had seen the "Do not disturb" sign. Of course I had. I had put it on the door hadn't I?
"No, but did you read it?"
Of course I hadn't. "Why would I?"
It says "Don't Wake Until Spring."
That's a good one. Glad Liz caught it. A motel with a sense of humor.
Going Into My Hibernation Mode. --RoadDog
As we were leaving for Charlie Parker's for breakfast, Liz asked me if I had seen the "Do not disturb" sign. Of course I had. I had put it on the door hadn't I?
"No, but did you read it?"
Of course I hadn't. "Why would I?"
It says "Don't Wake Until Spring."
That's a good one. Glad Liz caught it. A motel with a sense of humor.
Going Into My Hibernation Mode. --RoadDog
9-11 on Route 66
We spent most of yesterday cruising Route 66 through Missouri with their association's motor tour.
Most of the time we didn't see anybody because we were way behind, thanks to Cowboy Don at the old Wrink's in Lebanon. Then I had to come back and post about 9-11 on all four blogs, then shower, then check out of the Munger Moss, which also takes a while.
Every big flag on a flagpole was at half mast in honor of those who died. Plus, most cemeteries we passed were full of US flags all the way from the 3X5s to the little ones. Quite impressive.
People were asking "Where were you?" Again, it is a touchstone of the ages now, along with Pearl Harbor and the Kennedy assassination.
We went to Springfield, Illinois, before we stopped. After check-in at the TraveLodge, we drove the short distance to the Curve Inn (on Route 66 and gets its name from where the old road made a curve in front of it) and enjoyed the crowd and talk there while watching the Jet-Cowboy game.
We were sitting in the Curve Inn out last trip through town when word of the biggest-ever coward and hidey-cat came through. The bar then erupted in cheers.
At one point, Liz said to look over at the clock, which read 9:11. Shivers, even if it was "bar time."
We were later joined by roadies Lulu and Barb who were also returning from the Missouri Motor Trip.
A Day We'll Never Forget.
Most of the time we didn't see anybody because we were way behind, thanks to Cowboy Don at the old Wrink's in Lebanon. Then I had to come back and post about 9-11 on all four blogs, then shower, then check out of the Munger Moss, which also takes a while.
Every big flag on a flagpole was at half mast in honor of those who died. Plus, most cemeteries we passed were full of US flags all the way from the 3X5s to the little ones. Quite impressive.
People were asking "Where were you?" Again, it is a touchstone of the ages now, along with Pearl Harbor and the Kennedy assassination.
We went to Springfield, Illinois, before we stopped. After check-in at the TraveLodge, we drove the short distance to the Curve Inn (on Route 66 and gets its name from where the old road made a curve in front of it) and enjoyed the crowd and talk there while watching the Jet-Cowboy game.
We were sitting in the Curve Inn out last trip through town when word of the biggest-ever coward and hidey-cat came through. The bar then erupted in cheers.
At one point, Liz said to look over at the clock, which read 9:11. Shivers, even if it was "bar time."
We were later joined by roadies Lulu and Barb who were also returning from the Missouri Motor Trip.
A Day We'll Never Forget.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
9-11 Here at the Munger Moss on Route 66
I was down at the lobby as I usually am while staying here at the Munger Moss Motel here in Lebanon, Missouri, right on the east side and on good old Route 66. All sorts of good conversation.
Ramona Lehman said she remembers ten years ago because she was just getting ready to go bowling, something she does every Tuesday. She was in the office of the motel and saw the first reports and video of the towers.
Bob Lehman remembers he had just bought a brand new Ford pickup truck and picked it up at the dealer. New vehicles come with a tank of gas and the dealer told him to fill up at a local station and bring the bill back.
When Bob got to the station, there was a long line of vehicles waiting to get gas. It was the same way at other stations. He was wondering why until he turned on the radio.
Wonder if Bob ever got that tank of gas?
I was teaching seventh grade social studies at Magee Middle School in Round Lake, Illinois, and that is what we listened to on the radio (couldn't get TV reception) and talked about the rest of that day and for the next several days.
The sky today reminds me of that one ten years ago. Not a cloud in it.
A Day That Will Also Live in Infamy.
Ramona Lehman said she remembers ten years ago because she was just getting ready to go bowling, something she does every Tuesday. She was in the office of the motel and saw the first reports and video of the towers.
Bob Lehman remembers he had just bought a brand new Ford pickup truck and picked it up at the dealer. New vehicles come with a tank of gas and the dealer told him to fill up at a local station and bring the bill back.
When Bob got to the station, there was a long line of vehicles waiting to get gas. It was the same way at other stations. He was wondering why until he turned on the radio.
Wonder if Bob ever got that tank of gas?
I was teaching seventh grade social studies at Magee Middle School in Round Lake, Illinois, and that is what we listened to on the radio (couldn't get TV reception) and talked about the rest of that day and for the next several days.
The sky today reminds me of that one ten years ago. Not a cloud in it.
A Day That Will Also Live in Infamy.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Sitting Out Poolside at the Munger Moss: The Dragon's Tail
We just got back to the room at the Munger Moss Motel in Lebanon, Missouri, where we had a great talk with a bunch of 66 roadies, both new and old.
I went back to the room to get drinks, and when I came back, thee was a younger guy talking with the others.
Turns out, this is his first-ever trip on Route 66 and from what I saw, he is addicted already.
He is making the trip in one week and still is leaving for Springfield, Missouri, I guess you can head out at midnight for some place down the road.
We told him about places to go.
He was wearing an "I Survived US-129" shirt. Never heard of it. Sounds like it is also an experience, packing over a hundred turns in just eleven miles and located between Tennessee and North Carolina. Actually, the number is 318 turns, Folks who know it call it the "Dragon" or "Dragon's Tail."
Looks like I'll have somewhere else to check out next drive to NC.
Never Too Old to Learn Something. --RoadDog
Friday, September 9, 2011
Missed It By This Much...: The Macomb Balloon Rally
We spent Tuesday night in Macomb, Illinois, and Liz said that while she was checking into the Macomb Inn on US-136, that she overheard the desk clerk telling someone that they were full this weekend. Western Illinois University was having both a home football game and Mothers Weekend and there was this big balloon rally going on.
This balloon rally, taking place today and tomorrow,is the 25th annual. A picture of the balloons is featured on the Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce & Downtown Development Corporation's guidebook.
It says the second weekend in September is always the time of the rally which features three balloon launches from Vince Grady Field, live entertainment and the always popular Balloon Glow on Saturday night.
If you've never seen balloons lit up at night, you've missed one impressive sight.
This year the Balloon Rally is September 9th and 10th.
Maybe Next Year. --RoadDog
This balloon rally, taking place today and tomorrow,is the 25th annual. A picture of the balloons is featured on the Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce & Downtown Development Corporation's guidebook.
It says the second weekend in September is always the time of the rally which features three balloon launches from Vince Grady Field, live entertainment and the always popular Balloon Glow on Saturday night.
If you've never seen balloons lit up at night, you've missed one impressive sight.
This year the Balloon Rally is September 9th and 10th.
Maybe Next Year. --RoadDog
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Thursday Morning Coffee in the Munger-Moss Lobby: A Real Route 66 Experience
Earlier this morning, I walked over to the Munger Moss lobby for my morning coffee. Ramona Lehman was there sorting through the mail. Of course, we did some talking.
Folks were checking out so I was able to talk to them.
One family from Spain was taking a US trip from Chicago to Los Angeles with their three kids. Unfortunately, one had gotten sick and they inquired of Ramona where a clinic or some place would be that didn't charge the outrageous prices usually found in medical places.
Ramona called her doctor and explained the situation and they got an appointment to get in right away. That Route 66 folks for you.
Another couple driving a 2000 Camaro, were heading for Chicago and going along 66. They were from a small town outside of Joplin, but hadn't been hit by those horrible tornadoes earlier this year, but said the part of the city that was looked like an A-Bomb had gone off there.
He only had one complaint about the motel, and that was that there was no in-room coffee. But he was getting two cups for the road. Told them about the Route 66 Hotel, Cozy Dog and Curve Inn in Springfield, Illinois.
The couple from Cincinnati who checked in last night while we were in the lobby, also headed out. They were doing 66 all the way to Santa Monica.
Another couple was leaving and doing Route 66 to Oklahoma City. They are partitioning the road into several trips, but one day intend to take the whole thing in one swoop, planning on four weeks, a really good amount of time to devote to the trip.
Two couples from Kentucky in two cars were also leaving on their way west to California.
Now, That's an Enjoyable Wat to Spend a Morning. --RoadDog
I Need to Be More Aware
Tuesday, we were preparing for our Missouri trip which we are taking in the 2011 Malibu.
We keep it parked in the garage, so I backed it out. Liz was away getting some last minute stuff and when she returned in the "old" Mailibu (2001), she parked it where the new one had been. For some reason, she locked the old one.
In awhile, I had to go put something into the new car,so absent-mindedly went to the one in the garage and thought it was strange that it was locked. Out came the key to the 2011 and it wouldn't go in.
I'm a bit puzzled right now. Why won't that key go in. I kept trying a few more times. Still no luck.
Wait a minute! Oh, yes, I backed the new car out and it is in the driveway. This is the 2003.
No wonder the new key wouldn't work in the old car.
Don't Surprise Me None. --RoadDog
We keep it parked in the garage, so I backed it out. Liz was away getting some last minute stuff and when she returned in the "old" Mailibu (2001), she parked it where the new one had been. For some reason, she locked the old one.
In awhile, I had to go put something into the new car,so absent-mindedly went to the one in the garage and thought it was strange that it was locked. Out came the key to the 2011 and it wouldn't go in.
I'm a bit puzzled right now. Why won't that key go in. I kept trying a few more times. Still no luck.
Wait a minute! Oh, yes, I backed the new car out and it is in the driveway. This is the 2003.
No wonder the new key wouldn't work in the old car.
Don't Surprise Me None. --RoadDog
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Made It to the Munger-Moss
Checked in about 6 pm today and it was great to see Ramona. Bob was off fishing. Tough life.
Sat out by the pool and enjoyed the newly restored sign. It was starting to look long-in-the-tooth the last time we saw it two years ago.
Saw a lot of people stopping to take pictures.
There is a new business in Wrink's, right down the road.
Our Home Away From Home. --RoadDog
Sat out by the pool and enjoyed the newly restored sign. It was starting to look long-in-the-tooth the last time we saw it two years ago.
Saw a lot of people stopping to take pictures.
There is a new business in Wrink's, right down the road.
Our Home Away From Home. --RoadDog
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Doing Our Route 66 Thing
Our "staycation" is ending and Big Oil will be making some profit on us as we prepare to "hit the road" for the first time since early May (other than my trip to NC last month).
We're taking roads we haven't been on before much of the way out to Miami, Oklahoma (and not pronounced the way you think). I've got a KuKu Burger waiting for me with my name on it.
We'll be driving from Pontiac, Illinois, to Keokuk, Iowa, and to Princeton, Missouri, before picking up US-65 and taking it most of the way to Lebanon. I want to see the newly restored Munger-Moss sign.
Then on to US-60 and west to near Miami.
On the Road Again. --RoadDog
We're taking roads we haven't been on before much of the way out to Miami, Oklahoma (and not pronounced the way you think). I've got a KuKu Burger waiting for me with my name on it.
We'll be driving from Pontiac, Illinois, to Keokuk, Iowa, and to Princeton, Missouri, before picking up US-65 and taking it most of the way to Lebanon. I want to see the newly restored Munger-Moss sign.
Then on to US-60 and west to near Miami.
On the Road Again. --RoadDog
Found Some More on Ernie Edwards' House
Yesterday, my friend Lulu said she was stopping by Lincoln to visit with Ernie Edwards on her way to the Missouri Motor Tour. I'm sure he will appreciate that.
I came across a some more stuff about Ernie's house in Broadwell.
It is 1,597 square feet, has two bedrooms, one bathroom and one partial, is on a 6,800 square feet lot (.16 acre), 8 total rooms, 10X16 kitchen, 22X13 living room and 12X11 master bedroom.
The description:
"Charming 2 bedroom Caper Cod style home with abundant history--owner Ernie Edwards owned and operated the adjacent "Pig Hip" which at one time boasted an operating restaurant, gas station and motel.
Mr. Edwards still showcases remaining Route 66 memorabilia from this very residence!!
This comfortable property boasts a large living room with an open staircase with woodburning fireplace surrounded by built in shelving, a rustic formal dining room with hardwood flooring, "antique" style eat-in kitchen, finished breezeway, a screened back porch (where Ernie held court after the restaurant burned down), upper level bedroom with adjoining sitting room and large hall walk-in closet in addition to an attached garage with a 7X13 storage room.
Other features include updated furnace & central air conditioning, a storage shed, range/oven & refrigerator in kitchen stay and large lot ideal for outdoor entertaining.
Enjoy small town living (yes, REAL SMALL) conveniently located between Lincoln and Springfield.
Own a piece of history. Property being sold "As Is."
No mention of taxes, but I imagine they are not very high.
Any Takers? --RoadDog
I came across a some more stuff about Ernie's house in Broadwell.
It is 1,597 square feet, has two bedrooms, one bathroom and one partial, is on a 6,800 square feet lot (.16 acre), 8 total rooms, 10X16 kitchen, 22X13 living room and 12X11 master bedroom.
The description:
"Charming 2 bedroom Caper Cod style home with abundant history--owner Ernie Edwards owned and operated the adjacent "Pig Hip" which at one time boasted an operating restaurant, gas station and motel.
Mr. Edwards still showcases remaining Route 66 memorabilia from this very residence!!
This comfortable property boasts a large living room with an open staircase with woodburning fireplace surrounded by built in shelving, a rustic formal dining room with hardwood flooring, "antique" style eat-in kitchen, finished breezeway, a screened back porch (where Ernie held court after the restaurant burned down), upper level bedroom with adjoining sitting room and large hall walk-in closet in addition to an attached garage with a 7X13 storage room.
Other features include updated furnace & central air conditioning, a storage shed, range/oven & refrigerator in kitchen stay and large lot ideal for outdoor entertaining.
Enjoy small town living (yes, REAL SMALL) conveniently located between Lincoln and Springfield.
Own a piece of history. Property being sold "As Is."
No mention of taxes, but I imagine they are not very high.
Any Takers? --RoadDog
A WXRT Labor Day Road Trip Playlist-- Part 2
An asterisk means I hadn't heard it before. I heard some good new stuff going through this list.
11. I'LL TAKE YOU THERE-- STAPLE SINGERS-- go anywhere with "these sultry soul women."
12. *DELIVER ME-- ROBERT RANDOLPH & FAMILY BAND-- "pedal steel guitarist wizard." (I'll have to check him out some more.)
13. *STEADY AS SHE GOES-- THE RACONTEURS-- Keep it steady and get there safely.
14. *GO-- PEARL JAM-- "a fast-driving song."
15. OVER THE HILLS AND FAR AWAY-- LED ZEPPELIN-- "Road tripping to some idyllic countryside getaway."
16. *TRUCKER'S ATLAS-- MODEST MOUSE-- Tells where they're going. (neat name for a group.)
17. *OVERDRIVE-- FOO FIGHTERS-- "great pump up tune"
18. INTERSTATE LOVE SONG-- STONE TEMPLE PILOTS-- great song to listen to while cruising the interstate. (Really? Who would drive on the interstate?)
19. THE PUSHER-- STEPPENWOLF-- getting bored. (The video starts with a truck driving down a dirt road. Well, then there was that whole "Easy Rider" thing.)
20. RUNNING ON EMPTY-- JACKSON BROWNE-- Comparing the road to life. "'65 I was 17 running up 101."
Twenty-five More to Go. --RoadDog
11. I'LL TAKE YOU THERE-- STAPLE SINGERS-- go anywhere with "these sultry soul women."
12. *DELIVER ME-- ROBERT RANDOLPH & FAMILY BAND-- "pedal steel guitarist wizard." (I'll have to check him out some more.)
13. *STEADY AS SHE GOES-- THE RACONTEURS-- Keep it steady and get there safely.
14. *GO-- PEARL JAM-- "a fast-driving song."
15. OVER THE HILLS AND FAR AWAY-- LED ZEPPELIN-- "Road tripping to some idyllic countryside getaway."
16. *TRUCKER'S ATLAS-- MODEST MOUSE-- Tells where they're going. (neat name for a group.)
17. *OVERDRIVE-- FOO FIGHTERS-- "great pump up tune"
18. INTERSTATE LOVE SONG-- STONE TEMPLE PILOTS-- great song to listen to while cruising the interstate. (Really? Who would drive on the interstate?)
19. THE PUSHER-- STEPPENWOLF-- getting bored. (The video starts with a truck driving down a dirt road. Well, then there was that whole "Easy Rider" thing.)
20. RUNNING ON EMPTY-- JACKSON BROWNE-- Comparing the road to life. "'65 I was 17 running up 101."
Twenty-five More to Go. --RoadDog
Monday, September 5, 2011
A WXRT Labor Day Road Trip Playlist-- Part 1
Saturday, while looking to see the title of Wendy Rice's last song on her Saturday Morning Flashback to 1969 ("Hot Summer Nights" by It's a Beautiful Day"), I came across this interesting list by Jack Nechvatal. It took me a couple hours to go through because along with the song and why he chose it, he also included videos of most all of them. Well, I had to look at those, or at least a part of each. I had never heard of some of them.
An asterisk means I hadn't heard the song before. His quotes. Mine in parentheses.
1. KODACHROME-- PAUL SIMON-- That timeless opening line. "out of high school and heading for the open road." (I taught 9th graders for two years and didn't teach crap. It might have been boring, but it definitely wasn't crap.)
2. RUNNING DOWN A DREAM-- TOM PETTY-- "A great road trip song in all ways."
3. *WRONG WAY-- SUBLIME-- "A cautionary tale for young women, but set to fun, summer music."
4. LITTLE RED CORVETTE-- PRINCE
5. LOW RIDER-- WAR
6. TWO OF US-- BEATLES-- "You and I have memories, longer than the road that stretches out ahead." (On the video, it looks like Ringo was sleeping at the drum kit. I never thought of this as a road song, but in my defense, never really listened to the words that closely.)
7. HIGHWAY TO HELL-- AC/DC-- (I've been on a few of them, especially once in Boston.)
8. *CITIES-- TALKING HEADS-- "All road trips...will involve driving through some cities." (David Byrne mentions several cities at the start of the song.)
9. THUNDER ROAD-- BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN-- "...goosebump inducing qualities."
10. BORN TO RUN-- BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN
Well worth a look and watch if they still have it at www.wxrt.com
And There Are 35 More to Go. --RoadDog
An asterisk means I hadn't heard the song before. His quotes. Mine in parentheses.
1. KODACHROME-- PAUL SIMON-- That timeless opening line. "out of high school and heading for the open road." (I taught 9th graders for two years and didn't teach crap. It might have been boring, but it definitely wasn't crap.)
2. RUNNING DOWN A DREAM-- TOM PETTY-- "A great road trip song in all ways."
3. *WRONG WAY-- SUBLIME-- "A cautionary tale for young women, but set to fun, summer music."
4. LITTLE RED CORVETTE-- PRINCE
5. LOW RIDER-- WAR
6. TWO OF US-- BEATLES-- "You and I have memories, longer than the road that stretches out ahead." (On the video, it looks like Ringo was sleeping at the drum kit. I never thought of this as a road song, but in my defense, never really listened to the words that closely.)
7. HIGHWAY TO HELL-- AC/DC-- (I've been on a few of them, especially once in Boston.)
8. *CITIES-- TALKING HEADS-- "All road trips...will involve driving through some cities." (David Byrne mentions several cities at the start of the song.)
9. THUNDER ROAD-- BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN-- "...goosebump inducing qualities."
10. BORN TO RUN-- BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN
Well worth a look and watch if they still have it at www.wxrt.com
And There Are 35 More to Go. --RoadDog
Want to Buy a Piece of Route 66 History?
And for just $89,000.
Plus, you will be near Springfield and Lincoln in Illinois.
Ernie Edwards' home for all those years he operated the noted restaurant called the Pig Hip is now for sale in Broadwell, Illinois.
When we were by there in April, it was listed by ME Realty at 217-735-5424, website www.sethsellslincoln.com.
It must have been relisted as they have it for sale since June.
The home, at 101 W. Oak Street is 111 years old. The description is: "Own a piece of history! Charming 2 bedroom Small Town Home. Tons of possibilities with this selection."
MLS Number: 20100480.
There are also six photos along with.
Here's hoping a 66er buys it. I imagine the big letter "E" on the chimney and pink mailbox with a pig on it comes with the deal, as well as the Pig Hip park.
Now's You Chance. --RoadDog
Plus, you will be near Springfield and Lincoln in Illinois.
Ernie Edwards' home for all those years he operated the noted restaurant called the Pig Hip is now for sale in Broadwell, Illinois.
When we were by there in April, it was listed by ME Realty at 217-735-5424, website www.sethsellslincoln.com.
It must have been relisted as they have it for sale since June.
The home, at 101 W. Oak Street is 111 years old. The description is: "Own a piece of history! Charming 2 bedroom Small Town Home. Tons of possibilities with this selection."
MLS Number: 20100480.
There are also six photos along with.
Here's hoping a 66er buys it. I imagine the big letter "E" on the chimney and pink mailbox with a pig on it comes with the deal, as well as the Pig Hip park.
Now's You Chance. --RoadDog
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Missing the "Old Coot on 66," Ernie Edwards-- Part 2
Ernie signed items "The Old Coot on 66" at the Pig Hip Museum in Broadwell. I wish that I had had the opportunity to visit the Pig Hip when it was open, but was a devoted superslab guy at the time, so probably never would have gotten off I-55 to visit.
I also would love to have had a Pig Hip sandwich. I just missed one on one Route 66 Association of Illinois Motor Tour.
At least, I did get to meet and talk with Ernie Edwards many times, especially after he opened his museum. And even after it burned down, he still held "court" in the little sun room behind his house.
About five years ago, I was driving past the museum and saw Ernie busy moving some of those big split rail fences, something a guy in his upper 80s had no business doing, so stopped and helped him. He was always quite the character.
His house is now for sale (or at least it was back at the end of April. He and Fran are not going to come back. If you're interested in buying it, the real estate sign reads: ME Realty, 217-735-5424, www.sethsellslincoln.com.
I'd never noticed it before, but his mailbox was painted pink with a pig on it.
I understand Ernie now lives in a retirement home in Lincoln.
Sure Glad I Had the Opportunity. --RoadDog
I also would love to have had a Pig Hip sandwich. I just missed one on one Route 66 Association of Illinois Motor Tour.
At least, I did get to meet and talk with Ernie Edwards many times, especially after he opened his museum. And even after it burned down, he still held "court" in the little sun room behind his house.
About five years ago, I was driving past the museum and saw Ernie busy moving some of those big split rail fences, something a guy in his upper 80s had no business doing, so stopped and helped him. He was always quite the character.
His house is now for sale (or at least it was back at the end of April. He and Fran are not going to come back. If you're interested in buying it, the real estate sign reads: ME Realty, 217-735-5424, www.sethsellslincoln.com.
I'd never noticed it before, but his mailbox was painted pink with a pig on it.
I understand Ernie now lives in a retirement home in Lincoln.
Sure Glad I Had the Opportunity. --RoadDog
Friday, September 2, 2011
What's On Your Bucket List?
From the June 5th Parade Magazine.
What are the things you want to do before your kick the bucket?
Jimmy Fallon says these six things:
1. Actually finish reading a book. (I can relate to that,)
2. "Travel across the country and check out all the cool stuff." (That could take a hundred years easily, though.)
3. Learn to tap-dance. (I'll take a pass on that one.)
4. "I want to ride a motorcycle on Route 66. I just think it would be fun, and maybe somehow I'd make a connection with Jack Kerouac." (It'd have to be a three-wheeler motorcycle if I drove one. I'm scared otherwise. Already driven the whole length.)
5. Go to Graceland and eat a peanut butter and banana while there. (been to Graceland. Had a pb&b sandwich, but at home.)
6. I want to be a dad. (I think I'm past that stage.)
I Wonder What My Bucket List Would Be. Definitely a Lot of Two-Lane Roads. --RoadDog
What are the things you want to do before your kick the bucket?
Jimmy Fallon says these six things:
1. Actually finish reading a book. (I can relate to that,)
2. "Travel across the country and check out all the cool stuff." (That could take a hundred years easily, though.)
3. Learn to tap-dance. (I'll take a pass on that one.)
4. "I want to ride a motorcycle on Route 66. I just think it would be fun, and maybe somehow I'd make a connection with Jack Kerouac." (It'd have to be a three-wheeler motorcycle if I drove one. I'm scared otherwise. Already driven the whole length.)
5. Go to Graceland and eat a peanut butter and banana while there. (been to Graceland. Had a pb&b sandwich, but at home.)
6. I want to be a dad. (I think I'm past that stage.)
I Wonder What My Bucket List Would Be. Definitely a Lot of Two-Lane Roads. --RoadDog
The Proper Way to Eat a Lobster
From the July 27th Chicago Tribune "Break it down" by Bill Daley.
If you're ever out in New England or especially one of those Lobster Pounds in Maine and order one of those lobsters, you might have some problems eating them. Getting at the meat can be a problem.
Bill Daley says he learned how to get at his lobster at the Home Port restaurant in Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts which opened in the early 1930s. It has views of wonderful sunsets and go through 200-300 lobsters a night in July and August.
He had just ordered two lobsters (for the same price he would have paid for one back home) and looked down and saw these directions on the place mat:
1. Twist off the claws.
2. Crack claws with nutcracker.
3. Separate the tail piece from the body by arching the back until it cracks.
4. Bend back and break the flippers off the tailpiece.
5. Insert fork where the flippers broke off and push.
6. Unhinge the back--the tornalley, or liver, a delicacy to many lobster eaters turns green when boiled. (Think I'll skip this.)
7. Open the body. Crack it sideways. There is good meat in this section too.
8. The small claws are excellent eating too-- suck the meat out.
OK, now that I'm hungry for lobster.
We sure enjoyed the lobster pounds when we were in Maine, well, I did. But i did get Liz to eat a little bit of one. But I did see the local McDonalds had something called a McLobster. I didn't want to go to a McDonald's with all that fresh lobster available, but wish I had as I never saw it anywhere else.
Some places had stuff called lobster rolls.
How Many of You Like to Antagonize Those Lobsters in the Tanks at Grocery Stores? All i Ever Get is Some Antennae Wiggling. --RoadDog
If you're ever out in New England or especially one of those Lobster Pounds in Maine and order one of those lobsters, you might have some problems eating them. Getting at the meat can be a problem.
Bill Daley says he learned how to get at his lobster at the Home Port restaurant in Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts which opened in the early 1930s. It has views of wonderful sunsets and go through 200-300 lobsters a night in July and August.
He had just ordered two lobsters (for the same price he would have paid for one back home) and looked down and saw these directions on the place mat:
1. Twist off the claws.
2. Crack claws with nutcracker.
3. Separate the tail piece from the body by arching the back until it cracks.
4. Bend back and break the flippers off the tailpiece.
5. Insert fork where the flippers broke off and push.
6. Unhinge the back--the tornalley, or liver, a delicacy to many lobster eaters turns green when boiled. (Think I'll skip this.)
7. Open the body. Crack it sideways. There is good meat in this section too.
8. The small claws are excellent eating too-- suck the meat out.
OK, now that I'm hungry for lobster.
We sure enjoyed the lobster pounds when we were in Maine, well, I did. But i did get Liz to eat a little bit of one. But I did see the local McDonalds had something called a McLobster. I didn't want to go to a McDonald's with all that fresh lobster available, but wish I had as I never saw it anywhere else.
Some places had stuff called lobster rolls.
How Many of You Like to Antagonize Those Lobsters in the Tanks at Grocery Stores? All i Ever Get is Some Antennae Wiggling. --RoadDog
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Missing Ernie Edwards on Route 66
It just doesn't seem right to drive Route 66 through Broadwell, Illinois, and know that Ernie Edwards is not home. He's still alive, but living in a retirement home in Lincoln (so I've heard).
That was always a highlight of any cruise to stop and talk with him IF YOU HAD SOME SPARE TIME. We never got out of his place without spending at least an hour and even then, really didn't want to leave. Those stories, and we heard many of them more than once, were just too interesting. Plus, there was also Ernie's delivery and that ever-twinkle in his eyes.
You'd sit there wondering which stories were real and which weren't or how much was true.
Then, there was that ever-present chef's hat and his fondness of posing for pictures with ladies.
If there was ever an "Old Coot" on Route 66, it was Ernie. I remember one time sending an e-mail to Tom Teague and signing it "Old Coot," short for Cooter, a name I used from Cooter Brown's bar down in New Orleans. Tom replied that he only knew one Old Coot on Route 66 and that was Ernie.
I always regret that we didn't get interested in Route 66 until 2002 and missed meeting many of the icons of the road, but at least I got to know Ernie.
We drove through Broadwell on our way to Springfield back in April.
And It just Doesn't Seem Right. --RoadDog
That was always a highlight of any cruise to stop and talk with him IF YOU HAD SOME SPARE TIME. We never got out of his place without spending at least an hour and even then, really didn't want to leave. Those stories, and we heard many of them more than once, were just too interesting. Plus, there was also Ernie's delivery and that ever-twinkle in his eyes.
You'd sit there wondering which stories were real and which weren't or how much was true.
Then, there was that ever-present chef's hat and his fondness of posing for pictures with ladies.
If there was ever an "Old Coot" on Route 66, it was Ernie. I remember one time sending an e-mail to Tom Teague and signing it "Old Coot," short for Cooter, a name I used from Cooter Brown's bar down in New Orleans. Tom replied that he only knew one Old Coot on Route 66 and that was Ernie.
I always regret that we didn't get interested in Route 66 until 2002 and missed meeting many of the icons of the road, but at least I got to know Ernie.
We drove through Broadwell on our way to Springfield back in April.
And It just Doesn't Seem Right. --RoadDog
Route 66 in Illinois-- Part 2
Continuing with the Route 66 news Summer 2011 magazine. In case some of you are not members of the Rt. 66 Illinois Association.
PRESERVATION REMINISCES BY DOROTHY McMULLEN
With photos of the Odell Station back then and now and the Route 4 sign at the Pontiac bridge. Major Duke got her interested in the association. (Tom Teague, Bill Shea and Rich Henry got us interested.) Frank and Roxanne Lozich were instrumental in getting the Preservation Committee started and in 1995, 20 interested people met at the Riviera (sure miss it) and that was the start.
When Frank decided to run the association, he stepped down from the preservation committee and Dorothy suggested Lenore and John Weiss. "The rest is preservation history."
Other Preservation projects besides the photos are the Meramec Caverns signs on the barns in Cayuga and Hamel, the relocation and restoration of the Bunyan Giant to Atlanta, the "subway" in Odell and the Mill in Lincoln.
A Bit of Illinois History. --RoadDog
PRESERVATION REMINISCES BY DOROTHY McMULLEN
With photos of the Odell Station back then and now and the Route 4 sign at the Pontiac bridge. Major Duke got her interested in the association. (Tom Teague, Bill Shea and Rich Henry got us interested.) Frank and Roxanne Lozich were instrumental in getting the Preservation Committee started and in 1995, 20 interested people met at the Riviera (sure miss it) and that was the start.
When Frank decided to run the association, he stepped down from the preservation committee and Dorothy suggested Lenore and John Weiss. "The rest is preservation history."
Other Preservation projects besides the photos are the Meramec Caverns signs on the barns in Cayuga and Hamel, the relocation and restoration of the Bunyan Giant to Atlanta, the "subway" in Odell and the Mill in Lincoln.
A Bit of Illinois History. --RoadDog
Route 66 in Illinois-- Part 1
From the Summer 2011 Route 66 Association of Illinois The 66 News.
It sure seems like this magazine gets smaller each issue. The latest is just 16 pages including the front and back covers.
Even so, there are some interesting articles.
Two pages are devoted to the two new 2011 Route 66 Association of Illinois Hall of Fame Members. This is a short synopsis of both.
LEO BORNDER
A lifetime resident in Lexington (home of that neat neon sign) who ran a Standard Oil station on Main Street before getting a station on Route 66 in 1948. He also did repairs and another family leased a restaurant attached to the station.
Both were destroyed by a fire on Thanksgiving Day 1960. It was rebuilt and he continued until 1989, 41 years on Route 66.
No mention of what is at the site now.
BOYD'S PLACE
In Odell from 1925 to the 1930s. Family-owned lunch stand known for their hot sandwiches and homemade fruit pies.
Boyd Seth Fairchild moved to Odell in 1905 and lived in a house at the corner of Route 4 and Wolf Street until 1948.
In 1925, he and his brother Roy took their meager savings and built a small lunch stand. Their barbecue sandwiches were especially popular. Pies were fresh-baked and topped with Allen's Ice Cream (made in nearby Pontiac).
Again, no mention of where Boyd's used to be (unless it was in the family's yard).
The magazine also has a two page list of all of the Hall of Fame members dating back to the first group in 1990, which included the Pig Hip Restaurant, Ernie Edwards, Russel Soulsby, Frances Marten, Francis Mowry and John Geske and J.P. Walters.
Back when individuals made a living off the road through their own initiative and sacrifice.
Believe I'll Have a Piece of That Apple With Allen's Ice Cream. --RoadDog
It sure seems like this magazine gets smaller each issue. The latest is just 16 pages including the front and back covers.
Even so, there are some interesting articles.
Two pages are devoted to the two new 2011 Route 66 Association of Illinois Hall of Fame Members. This is a short synopsis of both.
LEO BORNDER
A lifetime resident in Lexington (home of that neat neon sign) who ran a Standard Oil station on Main Street before getting a station on Route 66 in 1948. He also did repairs and another family leased a restaurant attached to the station.
Both were destroyed by a fire on Thanksgiving Day 1960. It was rebuilt and he continued until 1989, 41 years on Route 66.
No mention of what is at the site now.
BOYD'S PLACE
In Odell from 1925 to the 1930s. Family-owned lunch stand known for their hot sandwiches and homemade fruit pies.
Boyd Seth Fairchild moved to Odell in 1905 and lived in a house at the corner of Route 4 and Wolf Street until 1948.
In 1925, he and his brother Roy took their meager savings and built a small lunch stand. Their barbecue sandwiches were especially popular. Pies were fresh-baked and topped with Allen's Ice Cream (made in nearby Pontiac).
Again, no mention of where Boyd's used to be (unless it was in the family's yard).
The magazine also has a two page list of all of the Hall of Fame members dating back to the first group in 1990, which included the Pig Hip Restaurant, Ernie Edwards, Russel Soulsby, Frances Marten, Francis Mowry and John Geske and J.P. Walters.
Back when individuals made a living off the road through their own initiative and sacrifice.
Believe I'll Have a Piece of That Apple With Allen's Ice Cream. --RoadDog
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