Back Again

 After being off line since May 13, I'm back online again, thanks to good buddy John.

Trying to remember how to do these things.

First discovery.

--RoadDog

Just Hanging Around: Donovans, Saylor Mick's, Mother Road Cruisin'? Pizza and Sad Sox

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 26

Went to Donovan's Reef in Twin Lakes, Wisconsin, for drinks and live trivia with Uncle Jeffie.  Then to Saylor Mick's in Spring Grove, Illinois, for 75 cent wings and $1 Hamm's pints.

THURSDAU, APRIL 27

Considering going on the Illinois Route 66 Motor Tour this year from June 9 to 11.  It's time to get back on the Mother Road.  Haven't been since before you-know-what.

Cut the grass for thye first time.  Should have done it sooner.  I still have to clear up the tree limbs that came down in the ice storm.  Met Kevin and Kelly at Half-Times in Johnsburg for half-price pizza.  I got Liz and my old special pizza:  sausage, black olives and pineapple.

The White Sox have sunken to new depths this year (and I thought they couldn't possibly go any lower after the pathetic team of last year.  I sure was wrong.).

--SadSoxDog

Loaded With Oldies: 'Judy in Disguise (With What?)'

SATURDAY, APRIL22

That 4-album set "72 Top Original Hits by the Original Artists" obviously has a lot of oldies.

Some of them:  

TURN DOWN DAY--  Cyrkle

COME A LITTLE BIT CLOSER--  Jay & the Americans

EXPRESSWAY TO YOUR HEART--  Soul Survivors

CHERRY CHERRY--  Neil Diamond

JUDY IN DISGUISE--  John Fred

GOOD LOVIN'--  Rascals

WOOLY BULLY--  Sam the Sham

I GOT YOU BABE--  Sonny & Cher

BUT IT'S ALRIGHT--  J.J. Jackson

RESCUE ME--  Fontella Bass

LAND OF 1000 DANCES--  Wilson Pickett

BOY FROM NEW YORK CITY--  Ad Libs

And, there are 72 of them.

Name That Tune (from the above songs):  "Uno Dos, One Two Tres Quatro."  Answer below.  --RoadDog

"Wooly Bully"

And, Of Course, What Would Record Store Day Be Without Records?

SATURDAY, APRIL 22

As in LPs.  I did go through many of the Vinyl Frontier's albums.  There is just somehing about flipping through then that brings back memories of the good old record store days.

And, did I just hear that sales of albums have surpassed sales of CDs?

I ended up buying four albums (two of them multiple sets).  And, I sure like the prices for the used ones better than the prices for the new ones.
I bought:

Easy As Pie--  Billy "Crash" Craddock

Shake Off the Demon--  Brewer and Shipley

Bobby Goldsboro's 10th Anniversary Album  (two albums)

72 Top Original Hits by the Original Artists  (4 albums)

--RoadRecords

Doing That Record Store Thing

SATURDAY, APRIL 22

Okay, no NIU Spring Football game because of weather, but I did get to do other things.  

And, besides that, today is Record Store Day.  As such, I went over to my favorite Mom and Pop record store in McHenry, Illinois.  It is called the Vinyl Frontier which is a great name for a record store in my books.

Even though I don't need to be buying any CDS or LPs, hey, you gotta on this day.

I bought five CDs:

Kinks  (their first one)

Kinks Greatest Hits 1970-1986  (two CDs and a DVD)

Lola Versus  Powerman and Moneygoround--  Kinks

Drinks After Work--  Toby Keith   (including that great "Call a Marine")

Proof:  The Very Best of the Knack

You might say I got Kinkasized.

--RoadKinks

A Cappuccino, Nathan's and a Record Store

SATURDAY, APRIL 22

After sufficiently freezing, I was glad to get back in the car and drove to Thornton's on US-12 and bought a large cappucinno for $1.79, a lot better deal than you'd get at Five Bucks.  Then drove over to McHenry for Record Store Day.

I stopped along the way at Jewel which now has a Saturday special with quarter pound Nathan's hot dogs.  I loves those Nathan's and at that price.  Gosh!!  Bought three, two for later.

I went to my favorite record store, The Vinyl Frontier.  Nothing like a Mom and Pop Record Store, especially on a day honoring them.  

Sadly, I have lost several of my favorites over the years:

Record Revolution in DeKalb, Illinois

Full Cyrkle Records on Crystal Lake, Illinois

The Record Rack in Goldsboro, North Carolina

--RoadRecords

Dedicating the Dollar Lake Marker-- Part 2

SATURDAY, APRIL 22, 2023

Look up Lakeland Plaza Fox Lake idecpltraining for pictures of it and the early shopping center businesses.

Some of the former occupants were:

Sears, Roebuck & Co. (where the Fox Lake Theatre is)

Jewel Food Store (by the Sears)

F.W. Woolworth Co.

Frank's Shoes

Globe Department Store (since torn down.  It was between the current Val's and the Dollar General.)

National Food Store  (where Val's is today)

--RoadWorth

New Plans: Dedicating the Dollar Lake Historical Marker in Fox Lake on a Cold and Blustery Day

SATURDAY, APRIL 22

So, here we are out shivering and watching cars speed along Grand Avenue in Fox Lake, Illinois (and hoping we didn't get hit).  What a wonderful day to dedicate a new historical marker.  Our host and mc was none other than Michael Lescher, local real estate agent, musician and community pusher.

The marker was a joint effort by the Fox Lake/Grant Township Historical Society and the Village of Fox Lake. It had been covered with plastic and really, really taped on.  Michael had had the idea that he would be able to pull a cord and a massive cloth would fall off to reveal the new sign.  That didn't happen.  After some unsuccessful pulling at the taped plastic, he took a pocket knife out and soon had the plastic off.

It is an impressive sign.  Michael said a few words and read what it said.  

Dollar Lake had been at this site where Grand Avenue and Rollins Road come together.  It was a shallow, muddy lake that had been drained for the construction of the Lakeland Shopping Plaza which opened in 1963.

--RoadNoMoreLake

Making the Most of a Change of Plans: A Historical Marker in the Cold, Cold, Cold

SATURDAY, APRIL 22

I had planned to be in DeKalb and attend the NIU Huskies Spring Football game and spend the night, but the weather sure didn't cooperate.  It was 30 to 35 degrees with a blustery wind blowing the cold right into you.  We also had alternating rain/sleet and even snow.  Complete yuck.  

I was glad I decided to change my plans.  Sitting out in those open flat fields around DeKalb in the cold is just not a good idea.

Worked on blogs and listened to the radio.

At 11:10 am, I drove over to Fox Lake to be at the dedication of a new historical marker (or History on a Stick as some call it).  I had been told it was going to be at the Fox Lake shopping plaza and along Grand Avenue, but didn't see anything there.  Drove through the plaza and saw a group of people freezing out by the gazebo in Millennium Park on Rollins Road and drove over to check them out.

They were the ones dedicating the marker and there was also something going on for Earth Day as well.  They were getting ready to walk over to the marker, but I decided to drive back to it.  It was seriously miserable weather as forecast.

Waited in the nice warm car until they came then ventured outside and immeduately wished I had worn warmer clothes.  That was serious cold being blown onto us by a brisk wind.

--RoadFroze

Okay, First Plans Don't Work Out, So Time to Improvise

This past weekend did not work out as I had planned, mostly because of weather.  I had been going to go out to DeKalb, Illinois, for the NIU Spring Football Game on Saturday, but the weather sure didn't cooperate.  Temps were around 30 degrees with sleet, rain and snow (thankfully no accumulation) and a blustery wind which blew it right through you.

There was no way I was going to sit outside for any length of time.

I was also going to go from DeKalb and spend several days out at one of my favorite towns along the Mississippi River (and on the Lincoln Highway as is DeKalb), Clinton, Iowa.  I would be driving the Lincoln Highway there.  

From there I was going to Galena, Illinois for several days and attend the dedication of a bust honoring Sgt. Henry Taylor of Galena who received a Medal of Honor for his actions at Vicksburg during the Civil War this Saturday.

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FRIDAY, APRIL 21

I went over to pal Frank and Liane's place and had an excellent steak dinner and watched shows on Netflix before going to the Fox Lake American Legion for pull tabs and found out that the Fox Lake Historical Society and the village were dedicating a historical marker tomorrow.

Since I had already decided not to go to the football game, I decided to go history.

--RoadWeather

About Illinois' Heritage Corridor Destinations

Same source as last three posts.

Heritage Corridor Destinations (formerly known as the Heritage Corridor Convention and Visitors Bureau) is dedicated to promoting tourism in LaSalle, Grundy, Will, Putnam, Bureau and Livingston counties.  It works to attract visitors to the region, promote local businesses and organizations, and boost economic development.

The Heritage Corridor markets the region to potential visitors, both domestically and internationally.  

The focus is on overnight and group travel to maximize the economic impact of tourism for communities.  The organization works with municipalities, hotels, restaurants and other entities to highlight the region's unique cultural, historical and natural attractions.

This group was one of the two main ones promoting Scott Slocum's Great American Road Trip on Route 66 from end-to-end, Chicago to Santa Monica.

--RoadTrip

About That First Hundred Miles of Route 66 in Illinois

From same source as last three posts.

The First Hundred Miles is a comprehensive tourism brand, linking the communities between Chicago and Pontiac in Illinois.  At TheFirstHundredMiles.com, you'll find feature articles dedicated to noteworthy attractions, lists of fan favorite restaurants, inspiring photo galleries and comprehensive business listings.  

You'll also find convenient maps and pre-built road-trip iteneraries, directing you to popular boutique shops, sprawling nature preserves and delicious dining destinations.

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MY OBSERVATIONS

Downtown Chicago, the beginning point of Route 66 in Illinois has its attractions, including the Sears Tower (I don't call it by the other name), Union Station and, of course, Lou Mitchell's.  However, from there it goes through a rather dangerous area and suburban sprawl has really wiped out most of the rest of it until you get to Joliet.

--RoadHundred

Cross Country Great American Road Trip This Week and Next-- Part 3: Red Carpet Corridor Festval

Whether you're looking to chart a cross-country trip from Chicago to Santa Monica,or simply experienece a unique getaway that's close to home, the First Hundred Miles of Route 66 is the best place to start your journey.

This famed trek takes you off the interstate and encourages you to explore the communities that line the Mother Road.  From the hustle and bustle of Chicago's awe-inspiring Magnificent Mile to the picturesque farmland of Central Illinois. 

The First Hundred Miles of the original two-lane blacktop is lined with throwback diners, fascinating museums and some of the most popular photo ops you'll find along the entire route.

And, remember, May 6 and 7, just a couple weeks away, the stretch between Joliet and Bloomington-Normal is having their  annual Red Carpet Corridor Festival.  Every town has events going on.  

Lots of Fun.  --RoadRed

Cross Country Broadcast on 66-- Part 2

Radio personality Scott Slocum, who has the morning show at WJOL 1340 AM, will make dozens of stops to record interviews with legendary people along the Mother Road to intersperse with the live interviews from each morning broadcast.  

He'll also play interviews conducted at some of the best places along The First Hundred Miles, including the incredible new Route 66-themed Harvester Park in Burr Ridge, Dell Rhea's Chicken Basket in Willowbrook, the Old Route 66 Family Restaurant in Dwight (which he did today) and more.

The WJOL Great American Road Trip is fueled by The First Hundred Miles, Heritage Destinations and Enjoy Illinois.  Go to The First Hundred Miles on Facebookfor bonus articles featuring some of the great attractions that will be featured during the Great American Road Trip.

--RoadTrip

Take a Cross Country Broadcast on Rt. 66 Starting Next Week-- Part 1

From the April 8, 2023, Northwest Herald (McHenry County, Illinois) "Catch cross-country broadcast of Great American Road Trip" by Ryan Searl.

Join WJOL 1340 AM morning radio host Scott Slocum on an iconic road trip across America, via the legendary Route 66.

Starting this Minday, April 24, Slocum will embark on a two-week trip traveling the entirety of Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica, California.  This is brought to you by The First Hundred Miles and Heritage Corridor Destinations.

The trip will begin with a live broadcast from the Route 66 Association Hall of Fame and Museum in Pontiac, Illinois, and will conclude Friday, May 5, in Santa Monica.

Slocum will broadcast 10 morning shows from notable locations along Route 66 as he makes his cross-country trip.  In addition to Pontiac, broadcasts will take place in Collinsville, Illinois; Joplin, Missouri; Oklahoma City; Amarillo, Texas; Santa Fe, New Mexico; Sedona, Arizona; Las Vegas, Nevada; Victorville, California;and Santa Monica, capping his odyssey.  Well, Sedona and Las Vegas not actually on the Mother Road.

I Must Admit to Being a Bit Jealous of This Guy.  Lucky Dog.  --RoadWishingDog

Drive-In Theaters Featured in My Cooter's History Thing Blog

I will be writing about drive-in theaters in my Cooter's History Thing blog this upcoming week.  They have had a resurgence compliments of the pandemic of late.

I will be highlighting several, including Route 66's 66 Drive-In Theatre near Carthage, Missouri, and also the one near me in McHenry County, Illinois.

--Road-In

Roadside Attractions on Illinois Route 66's First Hundred Miles

From the February 12, 2022, Northwest (McHenry County, Illinois) Herald "Discover roadside attractions along old Route 66" by Ryan Searl.

JOLIET AREA HISTORICAL MUSEUM AND ROUTE 66 WELCOME CENTER

204 N. Ottawa Street, Joliet.

Life-size statues of the Blues Brothers -- "Joliet" Jake and Elwood Blues -- are photo-ready at the Joliet Historical Museum's interpretive Route 66 Welcome Center kiosk.

While there, you can climb into the white, drop-top convertible in the drive-in display, a photo-worthy exhibit complete with classic carhop and Route 66 signage.

Don't forget to visit the gift shop and load up on a great selection of Route 66 memorabilia.

--RoadDog

Music to Go Cruisin' in 1974: 'Another Park, Another Sunday'

From Bob Stroud's April 13, 2023, Ten at Ten on Chicago's WDRV, 97.1 FM, The Drive, Classic Rock.  These were all songs from 1974.  That's 49 years ago to you and me.

CALL ON ME--  Chicago

ROCK AND ROLL HOOCHIE COO--  Rick Derringer

PRETZEL LOGIC--  Steely Dan

ANOTHER PARK, ANOTHER SUNDAY--  Doobie Brothers

OL' 55--  Eagles

BRIDGE OF SIGHS--  Robin Trower

MOVIN' ON--  Bad Company

STAR BABY--  Guess Who

COME MONDAY--  Jimmy Buffett

COME AND GET YOUR LOVE--  Redbone

Name That Tune (from the above songs):  "Headin' Out to San Francisco For the Labor Day Weekend Show."  Answer below.  --Road'74

"Come Monday"

Regional Foods That Should Be in Military MREs-- Part 2: Musabi, Pepperoni Rolls and Cincinnati Chili

5.  Hawaiian Spam Musubi--  Regardless of what you think about SPAM, in Hawaii, its the bomb.  Musubi is fried or grilled SPAM on a bed of rice held together by  nori seaweed.

6.  Low Country Shrimp and Grits (South)

7.  West Virginia Pepperoni Rolls

8.  New Mexico Green Chili Stew

9.  Upstate New York's Utica Greens--  Any kind of leafy green sauteed in chicken broth and mixed with other items.

10.  Alaskan Akutiq--  Sometimes known as Alaskan ice cream

11.  Cincinnati Chili

I'd Like to Try Them All.  --RoadFood

Regional Foods That Should be in MREs-- Part 1: Crab Cakes and Biscuits & Gravy

From the April 21, 2022, We Are the Mighty  "11 regional foods we'd like to see in MREs" by Blake Stilwel.

He sure did a great job picking these.  I'd like to have them in anything, not just Meals Ready to Eat.

I did not recognize some of them and will tell what they are.  The ones I know, I just listed.

1.  A better Buffalo Wing.

2.  Baltimore Crab Cakes

3.  Southern-style biscuits and gravy

4.  South Dakota Chislic--  Grilled or fried chunks of meat, usually game or lamb, but can be beef.  Topped with seasoned salt or garlic salt and eaten with toothpicks.  And, don't forget the saltines.

--RoadDog

Along66, March 2023: Bringing Back the Meramec River Bridge and Saving the Santa Monica Pier

MARCH 5

Missouri budget plans include $6 million to rebuild the bridge at Route 66 State Park outside of St. Louis near Eureka.  It will be a pedestrian bridge.  

It is 20 feet wide and 1,008 feet long and closed October 2009 and the driving surface removed.

Known as the Meramec River Bridge and was built at Times Beach in 1932.  Times Beach was evacuated in the 1980s because of dioxin contaminant.

The main office of the park is at the former Steiny's Inn restaurant.

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MARCH 6

Santa Monica Pier was saved from destruction fifty years ago.  It opened in 1909 to carry sewage pipes out to sea.    By 1916, it started looking as it does today.

Sure glad they kept it.

--RoadDog

Going Back to 1973-- Part 3: "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road'

Fifty years ago was quite busy for me.  I graduated from NIU, got married, bought my first car, got my first apartment and started a teaching career that lasted for 33 years.  These were songs that I sure associate with that time.

DANCING DAYS--  Led Zeppelin

LET'S GET IT ON--  Marvin Gaye  (Whenever I hear this song, I can't help but think about that episode in "King of Queens" when they went to the B&B.)

ROCKY MOUNTAIN WAY--  Joe Walsh

NO MORE MR. NICE GUY-- Alice Cooper

GOODBYE YELLOW BRICK ROAD--  Elton John

SPIRIT IN THE NIGHT--  Bruce Springsteen

JET--  Paul McCartney

HOCUS POCUS--  Focus

MONTANA--  Frank Zappa

WE'RE AN AMERICAN BAND--  Grand Funk Railroad

ALL THE WAY FROM MEMPHIS--  Mott the Hoople

Name That Tune (from the above songs):  "I've Been Really Tryin', Baby."  Answer below.  --RoadDog

"Let's Get It On"

Going Back to 1973-- Part 2: 'Such a Night'

1973.  That's fifty years ago for those of you counting.

GET UP STAND UP-- Bob Marley & the Wailers

WALKIN' THE DOG--  Aerosmith

KARN EVIL  #9 PART 2--  Emerson, Lake & Palmer

SUCH A NIGHT--  Dr. John

TUESDAY'S GONE--  Lynyrd Skynurd

 SHOWDOWN--  ELO

HOUSE PARTY--  J. Geils Band

KODACHROME--  Paul Simon  (Did he really learn crap in high school?)

SOUTHBOUND--  Allman Brothers Band

LONG TRAIN RUNNING--  Doobie Brothers

Name That Tune (from the above songs):  "When I Think Back On All The Crap I learned In High School.:  Answer below.  --RoadDog

"Kodachrome"

Going Back to 1973-- Part 1: 'Lake Shore Drive'

From the April 8, 2023, WXRT 93.1 FM Saturday Morning Flashback show with Johnny Mars.

This streams and plays for until noon CDST.

It started at 9.

5:15--  Who

DANCING IN THE MOONLIGHT--  King Harvest

TWO HANGMEN--  Mason Proffit  (This band played a lot at NIU when I was there so are a personal favorite.  I have all of their albums.)

DOO DOO DOO DOO DOO--  Rolling Stones

HYPNOTIZED--  Fleetwood Mac

THE JEAN GENIE--  David Bowie

LIVING FOR THE CITY--  Stevie Wonder

BRAIN DAMAGE/CLIPSE--  Pink Floyd

LAKE SHORE DRIVE--  Alliotta, Haynes & Jeremiah   (One great song about Chicago.  And, it will always be Lake Shore Drive to me, not that new name for the outer lanes, much like the situation with Comiskey Park and the Sears Tower.)

Name That Tune (from the above songs):  "As I Rode Into Tombstone On My Horse Whose Name Is Mac."  Answer below.  --RoadDog

"Two Hangmen"

Along66, March 2023: How About That Illinois Route 66!!

I take these from the Route 66 News site.  I just pick the entries of most interest to me.  But, this site has new content every day and covers the whole road.  It also includes pictures, video and more information.  I strongly recommend it for any of you who are into the Mother Road.

MARCH 2

A new Route 66-themed mural will be unveiled at the Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet, Illinois.  It has ten panels and stretches 40 feet long.  It will be displayed on the left side of the entrance.

And, as I have said before, along with neon and museums, you can never have too many murals.

MARCH 3

The American Giants Museum is planned for Atlanta, Illinois.  It will be an effort of Mr. Muffler man, Joe Baker.  The museum will be almost directly across from Atlanta's muffler man, the Bunyan Giant.

Now, if we could just get that smiley face off the water tower, things will be fine in Atlanta.

--RoadDog

Along66, Feb. 2023: The Boots' All the Way Open and Illinois' Red Carpet Corridor Expands

FEBRUARY 20

All 13 rooms at the Boots Court Motel in Carthage, Missouri, are now available for overnight stays.  And remember, none other than the famous Clark Gable stayed there in Room 6.

The place came close to being demolished in the early 2000s.

It was built in 1939 by Arthur Boots.  I know a place I'll stay the next time through.

FEBRUARY 27

Illinois' Red Carpet Corridor Festival adds a second day of fun and Bloomington-Normal have now joined.  It will be May 6-7.

It starts in Joliet, goes through 14 communities and covers 100 miles to Bloomington-Normal.

Each community has activities going on during it.  The towns:  Joliet, Elwood, Wilmington, Braidwood, Godley, Braceville, Gardner, Dwight, Odell, Pontiac, Chenoa, Lexington, Normal and Bloomington.  

I haven't been for awhile, but maybe this year if the weather cooperates.

Maybe Room 6 or Was It 66?  --RoadDog

Along66, Feb. 2023: Threatt Filling Station and Sugar Grove Nature Center

FEBRUARY 13

Threatt Filling Station near Luther, Oklahoma, may open to public as an interpretive center by June.

It was built by Allen Threatt in 1915 and served as a place black tourists could get gas and services during the Jim Crow era.  I am glad they are doing something with it as this is an underlooked aspect of travel in the United States.

When we drove by it, we had no idea of the importance of the place.  It looked like just another run-down building along 66.

FEBRUARY 16

Sugar Grove Nature Center at Funk's Grove, Illinois, has sudden layoffs of staff.  There was no warning.  This consists of 1,000 acres of preserved forest.

It is the largest intact prairie grove in the State of Illinois.  Sadly, I have never been there.

--RoadDog

Got My Irish On for Two Weeks-- Part 5: McHenry's Sham-Rock the Fox and the Usual Bars

SUNDAY, MARCH 19

Enjoyed and recorded Bob Stroud's Rock and Roll Roots which was to Jethro Tull's Aqualung album released this week way back when.  One of my favorite albums.

Went to my last day of my two week St, Patrick's celebration.  Drove to McHenry for Day 3 of their St. Patrick;s celebration "Sham-Rock the Fox."  This was quite a bit less than yesterday's party, which was okay for me.  

I went down to Miller Park and watched the band Onset play in the big tents and then to the PLAV for $2.75 Bloody Marys and then to the McHenry American Legion for the $3 rail drinks.  Then to Saylor Mick's in Spring Grove for the $1 Hamm's pints.

Wartched March Madness at the last two places and home at Margaritaville.

--RoadO'Dog

Got My Irish On for Two Weeks-- Part 5: Mighty Cold St. Patrick's, Some History, Some CB&C and Lots of Beer

SATURDAY, MARCH 18

About as cold as I can ever remember it.  And, it was 20 degrees but that wind blew the cold right through you.  Had been thinking of going to McHenry and watching them dye the Fox River green and then the parade.  They also had two huge tents at Miller Park by the river where bands were playing and food trucks available.  Not likely in that cold.

Instead, went to the Fox Lake Historical Society and had a presentation of "The Midway."  This was a major resort area in Fox Lake in the early part of the 1900s with hotels, bars, dance halls and all sorts of fun.

Then stopped at the Fox Lake American Legion on Nippersink Lake to see when they needed help for the corned beef & cabbage dinner and had a beer.  Home and back to the Legion.  As it turned out, they didn't need me, but I was there in case they did.

In the meantime, enjoyed the $2 draft pints and had my second cb&c dinner, this time for $10.  Watched March Madness.  Kevin, Russ and Allie had their heads shaved earlier in the day at the Fox Lake Fire Department for St. Baldrick's to rase money for charities.

Came home and watched the rest of March Madness in Margaritaville (my bar in the basement).

--RoadO'Dog

Got My Irish On for Two Weeks-- Part 4: Donovan's, CB&C, Saylor Micks and March Madness

FRIDAY, MARCH 17TH   (You know what day this is!!)

Drove to Donovan's Reef in Twin Lakes to have some corned beef & cabbage and watch some of my favorite sporting event of the year, NCAA's March Madness.  That is the 2023 Road to the Final Four and National Basketball Championship.

The place was already crowded when I got there and they were paying attention to and cheering teams on (possibly for betting purposes).  But, nonetheless pulling for teams.  I've been to bars where the games were ignord and that is not much fun.

Every TV was tuned into a different game.  As soon as one would get close, the front ones would tune to that.  Like the NFL's Red Zone TV.

The corned beef & cabbage dinner was $14.

On the way home, I stopped at Saylor Mick's in Spring Grove and had their $1 Hamm's green beer and most of the crowded house were watching and yelling for the games.  A guy came in and put on a good show on an electric piano.

Came home and watched the rest of the games at Margaritaville in the basement.

A Good Irish Sporting Day.  --O'RoadDog

Got My Irish On for Two Weeks-- Part 3: Strange Movie, Civil War, Donovan's and a Day Off

TUESDAY, MARCH 14

I went over to my buddy Frank's and watched the movie that won all those Academy Awards Sunday "Everything, Everywhere, All At Once" on his NetFlix.  This was a very strange movie.  I liked "A Man Named Otto" a lot better.

Then drove to Woodstock and met members of the McHenry County Civil War Round Table at 3 Brothers restaurant on Il-47 and afterwards had a presentation on questionable deaths during the war at the Woodstock Public Library.

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15

Went to Donovan's Reef in Twin Lakes for some good ol' Irish trivia with Uncle Jeffie and Irish treats on Wednesday Snack Out.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 16

Took the day off to take it easy before this coming weekend.  You know what tomorrow is.

Getting My Irish On.  --RoadO'Dog

Got My Irish On for Two Weeks-- Part 2: No VFW or Hello Folks, But a Legion, Sunnyside and PLAV

SATURDAY, MARCH 11

After the parade, I went back to the VFW with intentions of getting a corned beef & cabbage dinner and eating in the bar while the band played.  However, it was standing room only in there, so I left.

Dceided to stop at Hello Folks in Fox Lake on my way home, but it was pretty dead so went on to the Fox Lake American Legion of Nippersink Lake and had a great talk with Ken and others while watching and commenting on "The Mummy" movie playing on TV.  The place started crowding up so left and went over to Sunnyside Tavern in Johnsburg and ended up staying there for way too long.

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SUNDAY, MARCH 12

We had snow last night and snow flurries all day, but again, no accumulation.  Thankfully temps in the upper 30s.  Went to Jewel and bought an apple pie for $3.14 in honor of March 14 coming up in a few days.

Then went to the Polish Legion of American Veterans (PLAV) in McHenry for their $2.75 Bloody Marys.  I ended up talking so much with Cliff and Julie that I didn't get to the McHenry American Legion or Sunnyside as I had intended.

--O'RoadO'Dog

Got My Irish On for Two Weeks-- Part 1: A Fish Fry and Parade

Our St. Patrick's Day celebration around here lasted for two weeks.  I took full advantage of it.

FRIDAY MARCH 10

We had around 8-9 inches of snow, which was nice enough to stay off the roads.  Went to the Fox Lake American Legion for the annual (well, first in three years because of you-know-what) Grant Township fish fry.  Always something I look forward to.  The place was packed and there was all you can eat, but so much in the first serving I didn't go back for seconds.  Man does not live by corned beef & cabbage alone.

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SATURDAY, MARCH 11

Drove over to Lake Villa, Illinois, for their annual St. Patrick's Day parade.  For over ten years I dejayed for it at George's Cedar Inn on Main Street and sure had a great time.  I told him that as long as he owned the bar and my equipment worked (after I had retired from deejaying) that I would play there.  Unfortunately he sold the bar.

Parked at the VFW and went to the bar to wait for the start of the parade, but they weren't open, so walked over to the parade route and got breakfast at the Lake Villa Cafe while waiting.  Then watched the parade which is a good-sized on for such a small town.

What, Me Green?  --RoadO'Dog

Along66, Feb. 3023: Using the Negro Green Book and 100th Anniversary of the Rialto Square Theatre

FEBRUARY 10

The Illinois Holocaust Museum is hosting a Negro Green Book exhibition.

It is located in Skokie.

Of real interest is an interactive driving tour from the 1940s and 1950s.  On one you use the Green Book and you can also make the same drive where you don't have to use the Green Book.  In other words, you are White, not Black on the second one.

It was too bad that Blacks had to even use the Green Book, but that was the way it was back then.

FEBRUARY 12

The Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet, Illinois, will soon have a 40-foot long mural featuring tself and Route 66.  Both the theatre and Route 66 are celebrating their centennials in 2026.

The mural was made with an $85,000 grant.

--RoadDog

Along66, February 2023: Joplin's Union Depot and Grants in Illinois

I take these from the Route 66 News blog which has entries every day.  I just pick the ones of most interest to me.  But, if you want to know what is going on along our favorite road, this is the site you want to check out.  It has much more information and pictures.

FEBRUARY 7

It's now or never for the historic Joplin, Missouri Union Depot.  It has now been vacant and deteriorating for 50 years.

It is a very impressive structure even in its current state and the city would do well to make sure it has a comeback.

FEBRUARY 9

Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway announces $6,000 worth of grants which will be from $500 to $1,000.

The Illinois Route 66 Red Carpet Corridor is getting one for $1,000.

The Best Western Plus Bloomington East Hotel $1,000.

The Illinois Rock and Roll Museum in Joliet $1,0000 for marketing.

Palms Grill Cafe $1,000 for awning restoration.

City of Atlanta Tourism $1,000 for mural restoration.

Springfield Lucky Horseshoe / Robin Roberts Stadium $1,000.

--RoadDog

Along66, Jan. 2023: Deaths of Caitlin-Legitko and Okura

JANUARY 25

Illinois State Museum director dies shortly after appointment to Route 66 Centennial Commission.

Cinnamon Caitlin-Legutko, age 50.

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JANUARY 28

Albert Okura, restarantaur who owned the town of Amboy, California, died at age 72.  He also owned the Juan Pollo restaurant chain.

He bought Amboy in 2005.  In addition, he also owned the original McDonald's in San Bernanrdino, Calofornia.

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JANUARY 30

About $15 million in improvements are planned for the Old State Capitil Building in Springfield, Illinois.

The funds come from the state's Rebuild Illinois Program.  Money will be spent on the relacement of the roof and wooden flooring among other things.

--RoadDog

Along66, Jan. 2023: Gigantor and the Bridge

JANUARY 22

Giant guitar added to side of the Illinois Rock Museum in Joliet on Route 66.

Nicknamed "Gigantor", the 24-foot tall guitar toured Illinois Route 66 towns and now is in its permanent site.  The switch turning it on was thrown by Rick Nielsen of the Rockford, Illinois, band Cheap Trick.

Hard to miss it and now just another thing to see in Illinois along our favorite road.  I don't think the  museum is open yet, but wow, two of my favorite things in one building.

JANUARY 23 

The Missouri Route 66 Association could take over ownership of the historic Gasconade Bridge as early as this spring.  They will then have until 2024 to stabilize the nearly 100-year-old bridge or it goes back to MoDOT.

Well, let's hope they get it stabilized.  Sounds like agood time for a fundraiser get-together in Lebanon and a chance to thank Ramona Lehman for all her many years at the Munger-Moss.

Our Home Away from Home.  --RoadMoss

When & Where Did That Eating Place Start?-- Part 4: Taco Bell, Wendy's & White Castle

19.  SUBWAY--    Bridgeport, Connecticut, in 1965.  At first known as Pete's Super Submarines, then Pete's Subway and then shortened to Subway.  They have 37,000 places in 100 countries.

20.  TACO BELL--  In 1948, Glen Bell opened  hotdog stand in San Bernardino, California.  In 1951, opened a taco stand and the first Taco Bell in Los Angeles began franchising in 1964.  When he had 868 locations in 1978, he sold Taco Bell to PepsiCo for $125 million.

21.  TGI FRIDAYS--  Manhattan in 1965.  Currently  300 locationsin U.S..

22.  WAFFLE HOUSE--  First one opened in 1955.  Now  1,900 locations in 25 states.  I always chuckled when my nephew referred to it as "Awful House."  Great food though.

23.  WENDY'S--   1969 in Columbus, Ohio.  Named for his daughter.  March 2022, opened 7,000th restaurant.  I'd put their chili up against anybody.

24.  WHITE CASTLE--  1921 in Wichita, Kansas.  Some 400 locations, mostly in the Mid West. Love Them Sliders.

So That's How the Bell Came In.  --RoadCastle

When & Where Was That Popular Eating Place Founded?-- Part 3: McDonald's, Pizza Hut & Red Lobster

13.  KFC--  Kentucky Fried Chicken--  Colonel Harland David Sanders was a real guy who opened his first chicken restaurant in North Corbin, Kentucky, in 1930.   More than 24,000 locations world wide.  I would have loved to be there when the Colonel met our Route 66's Ernie Edwards at the Pig Hip in Broadwell, Illinois, to watch them try to do business.

14.  McDONALD'S--  The original McDonald was opened by brothers Richard and Maurice in San Bernardino, California, in 1940.  They had nine restaurants before Ray Kroc got involved.  Ray Kroc's first McDonald's opened in Des Plaines, Illinois.

15.  OLIVE GARDEN--  Launched in 1982 by the restaurant division of General Mills.  Nearly 900 locations globally.

16.  PIZZA HUT--  Opened 1958 in Wichita, Kansas.  Company sold to PepsiCo in 1977 for $300 million.

17.  RED LOBSTER--  1968, Lakeland, Florida.  Some 700 locations worldwide.

18.  SONIC-- Oklahoma in 1953.  First franchise location in 1956.

--RoadGarden

When and Where Was That Popular Eating Place Founded?-- Part 2: Denny's, IHOP and In-N-Out

7.  CHILI'S--  Opened 1975 in Dallas, Texas.  1,600 sites across U.S. and world.

8.  CRACKER BARREL--  Officially known as Cracker Barrel Old Country Store--  Founded 1969 in Tennessee.  They based the concept on the old Hen House chain.  There are only five states without a Cracker Barrel.  Love those rockers.

9.  DENNY'S--  Originally Danny's Donuts, opened  1953 in Lakewood, California.  In 1959, became Denny's  Coffee Ship and in 1961, just Denny's.  

10.  DOMINO'S--  First pizza joint named DomiNick's in 1960.  1965, changed named to Domino's.

11.  IHOP--  International House of Pancakes first opened in Los Angeles in 1958.  Around 1800 worldwide.

12.  IN-N-OUT BURGER--  Founded 1948.  Only around 350 locations, none east of Texas.  Oh, the craving.  Sorry Castle.

--RoadIn-N

When and Where Was That Well-Known Eating Place Founded?-- Part 1: Applebee's, Burger King & Chick-Fil-A

From the February 22, 2023, Yardbreaker ""When were these  24 iconic  fast food restaurants founded?" by Matt Sulem.

Next time you're driving down the road and see one of these places you'll know a little bit more about it.

1.  A&W   1919  in Lodi, California.  Hey, the CCR Lodi!!  Has about 1000 locations.

2.  APPLEBEE'S  1980 in Atlanta, Georgia   2,000 locations

3.  ARBY'S    Founded  1964 in Boardman, Ohio.

4.  BURGER KING--  Founded in 1954 in Miami, Florida.  Second biggest hamburger chain.

5.  THE CHEESECAKE FACTORY--  1978 in Los Angeles area.

6.  CHICK-FIL-A--  Opened in 1967 in an Atlanta mall.

--RoadBK

Along66, Jan. 2023: A Whale and Gas Station in Oklahoma

JANUARY 19

The City of Catoosa, Oklahoma, plans improvements to the grounds of the Blue Whale.

This includes trails behind the whale, rest rooms, gift ship and perhaps even a small RV park.  Then you can "Sleep with the Whale" along with "Sleep in a UFO" and "Sleep in a Tepee."

The Blue Whale was built in 1972 and closed in 1988 when it began falling into disrepair.  The city wosely bought it in 2020 from the Davis family for $1.5 million.

JANUARY 20

The Afton Station in Afton, Oklahoma, is up for sale for a second time in less than four years.  The former D-X gas station listed for $200,000.

David and Laurel Kane bought it in 1998.  Laurel died in 2016.

We sure miss Laurel Kane.  Always a friendly person to talk to.

--RoadDog

Five Things to Know About Arizona-- Part 2: The Shady Lady,

3.  THAT IS A BIG ROSE BUSH

The largest rose bush/tree in the world sits in Tombstone.  What started out as a clipping sent from a woman in Scotland to friends in Arizona grew to 8,000 square feet.

It is so big (how big is it?) that it was put on a trellis.  The rose tree, a Lady Banks species, was planted in 1855 near a shed at a boarding house.  The boading house was eventually turned into a hotel and that was renamed  the Rose Tree Inn in 1936.

Now the site is a museum and the Devere family sells cuttings from the Shady Lady, as the tree is called.

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4.  NOT EXACTLY RIBBIT

The official state amphibian  is a tree frog.  Who doesn't think of Arizona and amphibians?  Schoolkids came up with the designation in the mid-1980s.

5.  SAVE THE SAGUARO

It's against the law in Arizona to purposefully cut down, hack or otherwise ruin a saguaro cactus or other native plants.  You can be fined up to $500 a day for moving a saguaro around town without a permit.

And, then there are idiots like me who just can't not touch a cactus.  It's a painful thing I do.  Looks like I would learn after awhile.  BUT NO!!!

--RoadCactusToucher

Five Things to Know About Arizona

From the February 14, 2023, KTAR News  "Five things to know about Arizona as it celebrates 111 years of statehood."

1.  IF AT FIRST YOU DON'T SUCCEED:

In 1911, President   William Howard Taft vetoed Arizona's admission to the Union citing that the territory's constitution allowed the recall of judges  The voters pulled  the provision and Taft signed the bill to allow the state in.

And, then, in the next voting, the people voted 5 to 1 to reinstate the provision.

2.  THE USS ARIZONA

I wrote about this ship in my Tattooed On Your Soul:  World War II blog.

The ship was ordered a little over a year after its namesake state joined the Union.

--RoadZona

8 Iconic Cultural Locations on Route 66-- Part 8: Bagdad Cafe

BAGDAD CAFE, Newberry Springs, California

Located east of Barstow and west of Amboy in the Mojave Desert, Bagdad, California,  was a thriving Route 66 town until it was bypassed by I-40 in the early 1970s.

Any remaining buildings were razed by 1990s.

Although the town was the setting for a novel and movie, "Bagdad Cafe" in Newberry Springs, California.

Built in the 1950s and renamed Bagdad Cafe in 1995, the spot  is still a popular destination for international fans of the film or anyone else looking for a good burger and a cup of coffee.

We didn't stop because they weren't open when we drove by back in 2006.

--RoadCafe

8 Iconic Cultural Locations on Route66-- Part 7: Roy's Motel and Cafe

ROY'S MOTEL AND CAFE,   Amboy, California

Opened in 1938 in Amboy, California,  by Roy Crowl, Roy's was one of many  gas and service stations along Route 66.  Eventually it expanded to include a cafe and toourist cabins,

Roy's iconic neon sign was installed in 1959 (dark since the  1980s, the sign was restored and relit in 2019.

Although the  motel remains closed to overnight guests, a coffee shop and gas station reopened in 2008.  The recognizable site has been the filming location for several productions, including  the 1993 film "Kalifornia" starring Brad Pitt and Enrique Iglesias's 2001 music video for his song "Hero."

Talk about out in the middle of nowhere.

--RoadRoy 

Eight Iconic Route 66 Locations-- Part 6: Old Trails Bridge (Ariz. and Cal.)

6.  OLD TRAILS BRIDGE, Topock, Arizona

The steel arch Old Trails Bridge carried Route 66 travelers across the Colorado River from Arizona into California from 1916 to 1948.  When it opened, the bridge was part of the  National Old Trails Road, an early transcontinental route that connected St. Louis to Los Angeles.

This road predated Route 66 by more than a decade.

In 1948, the deck was transfigured to carry a natural pipeline, and in 1988 it was listed on the National register of Historic Places.

IT'S FILM ROLE

This photogenic bridge is used by Tom Joad (Henry Fonda) in the movie "Grapes of Wrath" and motorcyclists Wyatt (Peter Fonda) and Billy (Dennis Hopper) in 1969s "Easy Rider."

--RoadRider

8 Iconic Locations on Route 66-- Part 5: Twin Arrows, Az.

TWIN ARROWS TRADING POST, Flagstaff, Arizona

The Canyon Padre Trading Post was built in the 1940s along Route 66, but renamed Twin Arrows after two 25-foot wooden arrows were placed on the property.  Business immediately began to pick up as the arrows directed tourists to the gas station, diner and gift ship.

But like so many other businesses, Twin Arrows suffered after the construction of I-40 and closed for good in the early 1990s.

IT'S ROLE IN A MOVIE

It's a shame Forrest Gump didn't want to stop running long enough to explore the ruins  of the trading post, located in Flagstaff between Winslow and Williams, but the arrows can be seen in the background of the 1994 movie as he wipes his muddy face on a yellow tee shirt (unwittingly creating the ubiquitous "Have a Nice Day" smiley face merchandise).

I Hate That Smiley Face and Especially The One on Atlanta, Illinois' Water Tower.  --RoadSmiley

Along66, Jan. 2023: EZ 66 Guide & the Sidewalk Highway

JANUARY 17

The updated 5th edition of "The EZ 66 Guide for Travelers" by Jerry McClanahan is now available.  Anyone driving the Mother Road should take this along.  I also suggest Dave Wickline's book "Images of Route 66."

JANUARY 18

The Sidewalk Highway in Oklahoma is undergoing a historic review before rehabilitation begins.

A section of the 9-foot-wide Sidewalk Highway (aka Ribbon Road) near Miami, Oklahoma, is undergoing a required Section 106 review before work on it begins.

The intent is to restore the road's original character.

It was built in 1922 and a part of the original Ozark Trail.

--RoadDog

Along66, Jan. 2023: Sleep in an UFO and How Does Your Garden Grow?

JANUARY 12

The Pink Elephant Antique Mall in Livingston, Illinois, plans changes.  Changes will include converting the Futuro UFO into an Airbnb.

Futuro Homes were built in the 1960s and 1970s and fewer than 100 were made.  They resemble a flying saucer and are quite eye-catching.  Sleep in an UFO.

They also will be changing the Twistee Treat ice cream cone building.  Also an eye-catcher.

The mall is housed in a former high school building and has been opened since 2005.

A real tourist trap.

JANUARY 15

A closer look at Jim Ross' and Shellee Graham's new garden near Acadia, Oklahoma, was made by an Oklahoma City TV station.  Two well-known Route 66 folks.

Sleep in an (or is it a) UFO in Illinois Soon.  --RoadTrap

Sad News About Ramona Lehman and the Munger Moss Motel

I was catching up with the Route 66 News blog and came across  the entry for February 14 which announced that the Munger Moss Motel has been sold and that long-term owner Ramona Lehman is in an assisted living facility in Lebanon, Missouri.

I knew she was having health issues because of her age and needed to find someone who would take over the motel and run it.

We have stayed there many times over the years and have had nice talks with Ramona and her late husband Bob.  I especially liked the morning coffee in the offce as Route 66 travelers checked out.  All sorts of good 66 discussion then.

She and Bob were some of the folks we met that hooked us into Route 66, many of them now gone, sadly.

Hopefully, the new owners will live up to their promise to keep the motel much as it is.

Like Ramona and Bob used to say, "It's your home away from home."

Thanks for the Memories Bob and Ramona.  --RoadSad

Eight Iconic Cultural Locations on Route 66-- Part 4: 'Standin' On the Corner'

4.  STANDIN' ON THE CORNER PARK, Winslow, Arizona

Released in 1972, the Eagles' "Take It Easy" (written by Jackson Browne and Glenn Frey) includes the line "Well, I'm a-standin' on a corner in Winslow, Arizona, and such a fine sight to see.  It's a girl, my Lord, in a flatbed Ford slowin' down to take a look at me."

Like many other towns along Route 66, when they were bypassed by the interstates, Winslow began a slow decline in the 1970s.

In the 1990s the Standin' On the Corner Foundation was formed to attract tourists back to Winslow.    With the help of donors, a park was opened-- on a corner-- in 1999, featuring a hand-painted mural, a flatbed Ford and, after his death, a bronze statue of Frey in 2016.

In our end-to-end trip on 66 in 2006, Liz and I arrived in Winslow during their annual Standin' on the Corner festival.  That was great to hear a band playing "Take It Easy" in the street while standing on that corner.

My favorite Eagles song before we got into Route 66 in 2002 was "Already Gone.'  Guess what it is now?

--RoadEasy

Eight Iconic Cultural Locations on Route 66-- Part 3: El Rancho Hotel

3.  EL RANCHO HOTEL AND MOTEL, Gallup, New Mexico

Built by director D.W. Griffith in 1936 as a base for numerous Western movie productions, it has hosted many movie stars over the years, including Errol Flyn, Gregory Peck, Humphrey Bogart, Katherine Hepburn, John Wayne and Ronald Reagan.

Nearly a century later, the El Rancho still offers the "Charm of Yesterday."

This is a really neat place.  I just wish Liz and I had not opted for the cheaper motel rooms when we passed through and had stayed in the main hotel.  We did get to meet the owner at the time in 2006, Armond Ortega, in its 49er Lounge, who also owned a lot of the Indian souvenir places.  He was quite a gentleman and Liz was impressed when he clicked his heels, bent over and kissed her hand.

Wikipedia says the hotel was bult by D.W. Griffith's brother, R.E. "Griff' Griffith.

For a much longer list of people who stayed there, go to Wikipedia.

Impressed Me Too.  --RoadRancho

8 Iconic Cultural Locations on Route 66-- Part 2: 'The Outsiders' and 'Breaking Bad'

Here are those eight locations:

1.  "THE OUTSIDERS" HOUSE MUSEUM, Tulsa, Oklahoma

From the 1983 film adaptation of "The Outsiders" directed by Francis Ford Coppola and based on the novel by E.S. Hinton.  After decades of disrepair and near demolition it was purchased in 2016 and restored, opening as a museum in 2019.  

Lots of memorabilia from the movie and drop-ins from actors and even Hinton, who is a native of Tulsa.

2.  CENTRAL AVENUE, Abuquerque, New Mexico

Central Avenue is an alignment of Route 66 and is still,lined with motels, diners and neon signs, many of which can be seen in AMC's "Breaking Bad" (2008-2013).

The Dog House has been serving chili-topped footlong hot dogs for over 70 years, and its tail-wagging, suasage-eating neon dachshund makes a few appearances in the show's early years,as does the Crossroads Motel.

--RoadSider

Eight Iconic Pop Culture Locations on Route 66-- Part 1

From the RoadTrippers magazine by Alexandra Charitan.

John Steinbeck was the first person to designate Route 66 as the "Mother Road" (no, it wasn't Michael Wallis), but he was far from the last to recognize the route's cultural significance. In his 1939 novel "The Grapes of Wrath," Steinbeck describes  the east-west highway as a "long concrete path across the country, waving gently up and down on the map... 66 is the mother road."

Decades after Steinbeck's words were published-- and the 1940 film adaptation they inspired-- countless other books, movies, TV shows and songs have featuredthe landmark route.  While "The Grapes of Wrath" and "Easy Rider" might appear to share little more than Arizona's Old Trails Bridge, both movies embody the sense of possibility and freedom that still spurs travelers in search of their kicks to motor west.

I'd also like to add the movies "Vacation" and "Rain Man" as movies about life on the road.  They had parts along 66.

--RoadDog

Along66, Jan. 2023: McLean Train Depot Opens, Jungle Jim's Closes

JANUARY 8, 2023

McLean Depot Train Shop opens in the town's former train depot.  It is run by model train enthusiasts. 

The depot was built in 1853 and closed in 1970. 

The new business will be open 10am to 6 pm Monday to Friday and from 10 am to 5 on Saturday.

JANUARY 9

Jungle Jim's Cafe is closing permanently.  The auto-themed  restaurant is on the north side of Springfield, Illinois.  It closed Jan. 3, citing labor shortages, higher costs and the advancing age of the owners as the reasons.

It is at 1923 N. Peoria Road (Rt. 66).

The place was opened in 1988 by Jim Davison and his wife, and is listed for sale at $360,000.

We never ate there, but were planning to.  Guess not now.

--RoadDog

Outside Stuff on Illinois' Route 66-- Part 3: Rock Run and Midewin Prairie

In case you get tired of riding in the car and want to stretch your legs.

ROCK RUN PRESERVE

3669 Black Road, Joliet

Explore Illinois as it was centuries ago at Rock Run Preserve, a wetland with direct access to the Illinois & Michigan Canal.  Conveniently located just outside Joliet, the park is a major destination for those looking to picnic, fish, hike and bike a rambling 329-acre site.

You'll find a diverse natural habitat featuring wetlands, prairie and forest landscapes open to the public year round.

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MIDEWIN NATIONAL TALLGRASS PRAIRIE

30239 S. Illinois Route 53 Route 66) , Wilmington

Known as "The Largest Prairie Restoration Site East of the Mississippi River," the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie Preserve is also the single largest open space in Illinois.

It is managed by the U.S. Forest Service, and recognized as a U.S. National Grassland.  Bison were reintroduced on October 2015, making the gorgeous plot of prairie even more authentic.

They have nature talks and guided car tours.

--RoadDog

Outside Stuff on Illinois' Route 66-- Part 2: Waterfall Glen and The Forge in Lemont

WATERFALL GLEN FOREST PRESERVE, Interstate 55 and Lemont Road, Lemont

This place has pretty much any outdoor activity that you might want to do.  There are 11 miles of meandering trails and you can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, all just a short drive from the Mother Road.  

As implied, it has several tiered waterfalls and 740-plus documented species of native plants.  For you birders, it also hosts hundreds of species of our fine feathered friends.

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THE FORGE, LEMONT QUARRIES 1001 Main Street, Lemont

Get ready for some real adventure at The Forge.  Built in and around the picturesque Lemont Quarries, the place has rope courses, zip lines, climbing walls, mountain biking and an assortment of trails for all abilities.

There is also a 1,000 foot zip line.

I Don't Think So.  --RoadNoWay

Want to Do Something Outside the Car on Route 66 in Illinois?-- Part 1: Brookfield Zoo

From the November 20, 2021, Northwest Herald "Route 66 the first hundred miles" in Illinois by Ryan Searl.

The first hundred miles of the Mother Road have some beautiful parks, zoos and natural attractions which many Route 66 travelers miss.

Here are some that are near or on the road:

BROOKFIELD ZOO

8400 W. 31st St., Brookfield

Fifteen miles from Chicago, the 200 acre zoo is widely regarded as one of the best zoos in the country with an amazing array of animals inhabitants.

Opened to the public in 1934, it now has 450 species and more than 2,500 animals.  

And, of course, there's the park's famed Mold-A-Rama as a souvenir of your visit.

--RoadZoo

Along66, Jan. 2023: Ike's in Tulsa Celebrating 115 Years in Business

JANUARY 6

Oke's Chili in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is marking its 115th year in business this year.

It originally opened in 1908, one year after Oklahoma's statehood.  It was in an alleyway in downtown Tulsa near East Second Street and South Boston Avenue.

In 1913 Ike's moved to 312 Main Street then was in several different locations after that.  The 1913 menu lists chili at 15 cents a bowl.  Their prices have changed, but their chili has not.  What you got in 1913, you get in 2023.

It is now at 1503 11th Street (Route 66) and has been there for 8 years.  Previously it was at  Admiral Place, which was an early alignment of Route 66.

Don't you know that the father of Route 66, Cyrus Avery must have eaten there.

I had never heard of it before, but it is now on my list of places to visit the next time I am there.

Does this make Ike's the oldest continually operating restaurant in Oklahoma?

--RoadIke's

Along66, Jan. 2023: Trade Winds Inn, Elvis and a Route 66 Landing Strip

JANUARY 2

Clinton City Council (Oklahoma) approves purchase and eventual destruction of the Trade Winds Inn.

It is located at 2128 W. Gary Blvd. (Route 66). Built in the 1960s and famous 'cuz Elvis slept there at least four times.  Really he did.

JANUARY 3

Teenager makes emergency landing of his small plane on Route 66 on Cajon Pass, California. Brock Peters, 18.  No one was injured.

Something you don't see everyday.

Really, Elvis Slept There.  --RoadVis

Along66, Jan. 2023: Illinois Tourism in Tournament of Roses Parade

I take these posts from the Route 66 News site which has daily posts on what is going on along our favorite old road.  The site has more information and pictures as well as videos on occasion.  This is the best source for information on Route 66.

I run a month behind time (except when  I do something I came across on my own like the last post on Edwardsville).  I also just pick the stories of most interest to me.

JANUARY 1, 2021

The Illinois Office of Tourism to enter their first-ever float in the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California, on January 2.

It is 24-feet tall and has 30,000 flowers.  Also, this took 22,000 volunteer-hours to complete.

--RoadDog

Edwardsville, Illinois, Prepares for Route 66's 100th Anniversary

From the January 29, 2023, Edwardsville Intelligencer "Route 66  Monument sign erected across from Lincoln Middle School" by Charles  Bolinger.

The next part of the Route 66 Celebration was installed in Edwardsville Friday after public works crews installed a 12.5 foot tall Route 66 Monument sign on the east side of Illinois Highway 157 across from Lincoln Middle School.  This road, of course, was an alignment of historic Route 66.

This is to provide  "Instagrammable" moments for travelers as is a mural on the side of a building  at South Main and  East Vandalia streets that was put up last year.

The mural and monument are all part of Edwardsville's celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Mother Road which will take place in 2026.

Another part of the effort will be tom open a Route 66 tourism museum at the southeast corner of  West and St. Louis streets.

Edwardsville, a Town That Knows Its Route 66 Heritage.  --RoadDog

Along66, Dec. 2022: Mel's, the Prez and Muffler Men

DECEMBER 18

Mel's Drive-In restaurant is celebrating its 75th anniversary.  It is at the western terminus of Route 66 in Santa Monica, California.  It has eight locations.

DECEMBER 28

President Biden to appoint 12 people to the Route 66 Centennial Commission.  I've seen the list and they all seem to be well-qualified.  Author and Sheriff Michael Wallis  is on that list.  Was I even considered?  Doubtfully.

DECEMBER 29

New documentary talks about an early champion of Muffler Men.  Glen Good of Texas spent decades repairing and preserving the giants.

The film is by Joel Baker.

And, speaking of movies, I watched "Cars" in TV the other day.  Still good after all these years.

Like With Neon, You Can Never Have Too Many Muffler Men.  --RoadDog

All Lit Up: Tulsa's Stretch of Route 66 Now Features Over 50 Neon Signs

From the January 26, 2023 Tulsa People by Ethan  Veenker.

I have been following these neon signs in Tulsa on the Route 66 News site.

Route 66 has attracted travelers from around the world in its near  century of existence.  Lately, those cruising  through Tulsa's 28-mile stretch  of the Mother Road will notice a fresh glow of neon lights adorning local businesses.

Like Ken Busby,  executive director and CEI of the Route 66 Alliance said, "Oh, neon signs!  We have some, but we could sure use more."  As I have often said, "You can never have too much neon."

The Route 66 Neon  Sign Grant, the brainchild of the City of Tulsa's  Route 66 Commission, began granting funds in 2019 for businesses along the road to to install or refurbish their own neon  storefront signs.

Tulsa, a Town That Knows Its Heritage.  --RoadDog

Along66, Dec. 2022: 'Well, I'm Running Down the Road Trying To Loosen My Load'

DECEMBER 16

The backstory to the Eagles' "Take It Easy."  It was written in 1972 by co-writers Glenn Frey and Jackson Browne.

In 1999 the "Standing On the Corner Park" opened, on the corner in Winslow, Arizona.  The statue was put up after the death of Glenn Frey in 2016.

It is one of the most photographed places along Route 66.

In 2006, when we were driving end-to-end on Route 66 for our retirement from teaching, Liz and I were there for the "Standing On the Corner" Festival.  Nothing like standing there and hearing a band playing this song.

I don't know about anyone else, but whenever Liz and I heard this song, we would yell out:  "Standing on the corner in Winslow, Arizona (Right On Route 66!!) And such a fine sight to see.  It's a girl, my Lord, in a flatbed Ford slowing down to take a look at me."

"Come On Baby, Don't Say Maybe, I Gotta Know If Your Sweet Love Is Gonna Save Me."  --RoadFrey

Along66, Dec. 2022: The Cozy, a Medal of Honor and an Elephant

DECEMBER 11

The Cozy Dog in Springfield, Illinois, is getting a new sign.  Well, new old sign.  Those great guys over at Ace Sign Company have designed it as a throw-back kind of sign to an earlier one used at the place.

Bob Waldmire started it in 1946.

DECEMBER 13

Medal of Honor recipient Hiroshi Miyamura will be interred in his hometown of Gallup, New Mexico.  He was 97 when he died recently in Phoenix.  He received his medal during the Korean War.

DECEMBER 15

If you're driving through Lexington, Illinois, you may have notived an 11-foot tall scrap metal elephant sculpture called "American Standard."  It is located by the Freedom gas station.

The artist is Kasey Wells, who has several other sculptures around Lexington, ran as a write-in candidate for President of the United States in 2020.  I always like folk art.

Love That Cozy.  --RoadPhant

Along66, Dec. 2022: Route 66 National Historic Trail and LaClede County Wall of Fame

DECEMBER 5

U.S. senators introduce bill to designate Route 66 as a National Historic Trail.

Glad to hear this, but not sure why it is taking so long to do what is very obvious.

DECEMBER 6

Three will be inducted next month at LaClede County, Missouri Wall of Fame.

Plaques will be hung at the Lebanon/LaClede County Library on January 28.  Those honored will be:

1.  Direct Route delegates who lobbied for and got Route 66 yo go through the county and town.

2.  William and Ethel Lenz who ran the Lenz Tourist House which later became the Lenz Homotel from 1932 to the 1970s.

3.  The group that ran Speaker's Mobil gas station from 1921.  It is still standing, but not operating.

--RoadDog

Route 66's Quirkiest By State-- Part 5: California

CALIFORNIA

Oro Grande  (Elmer Long's Bottle Tree Ranch)

Victorville  (Emma Jean's  Holland Burger Cafe)

Victorville  (Route 66 Museum)

San Bernardino  (Original McDonald's)

Rancho  Cucamonga  (Cucamonga Service Station)

Amboy  (Roy's Motel and Cafe)

Santa Monica  (Santa Monica Pier)

--RoadDog

Route 66's Quirkiest By State-- Part 4: New Mexico and Arizona

Pictures and text accompany each place. Check out the site.

NEW MEXICO

Tucumcari  (Blue Swallow Motel, Tee Pee Curios)

Clines Corner  (Clines Corner.  Travel Center since 1934)

Albuquerque  (66 Diner)

Gallup  (El Rancho Hotel)

Santa Rosa  (Blue Hole)

*******************************

ARIZONA

Hackberry  (Hackberry General Store)

Winslow (Standing on the Corner Corner)

Seligman  (Angel and Vilma's Original Route 66 Gift Shop, Delgadillo's Snow Cap Drive-In)

Oatman  (The whole town and Burros)

Holbrook  (Wigwam Village #6)

(Grand Canyon National Park)

Meteor City  (Meteor Crater)

--RoadDog

Route 66's Quirkiest By State-- Part 3: Oklahoma and Texas

OKLAHOMA

Commerce (Allen's Conoco Fillin' Station)

Catoosa  (Blue Whale)

Foyil  ((Totem Pole Park)

Oklahoma City  (Milk Bottle Grocery)

Hydro  (Lucille's Service Station and Road House)

********************************

TEXAS

Shamrock  (Tower Station and U-Drop Inn Cafe)

Amarillo  (Cadillac Ranch, Big Texan Steak Ranch)

Conway  (VW Slug Bug Ranch)

Adrian  (Midpoint Cafe)

Groom  (Leaning Tower of Texas)

Cadillacs and Steak.  --RoadDog

'Gigantar' Cruised Thru Central Illinois Route 66 Towns

From the January 16, 2023, Bloomington, Illinois, Pantagraph by Allison  Petty.

A giant guitar made its way through  several Illinois communities  on its way to the  under-construction  Illinois Rock & Roll Museum in Joliet.

It is aptly named "Gigantar" and created by artist Shannon MacDonald and is 24 feet high and weighs 1,600 pounds according to Ron Romero, founder and  executive director of the  Joliet Museum which is slated to open later this year.

This gargantuan instrument has been making its way from where it was made in New Jersey and along the way made stops in Illinois Route 66 communities, including  Lincoln, Atlanta,  Bloomington, Normal, Lexington and Pontiac.

A celebratory "Gigantar" lighting ceremony is planned for  5 pm, Friday, January 20, at the museum located at 9 Cass Street, in Joliet.  Rick Nielsen of Cheap Trick is among the musicians expected to be there.

I'm sure looking forward to this museum as it brings together two of my big loves, music and Route 66.

--RoadGantar

Route 66's Quirkiest By State-- Part 2: MIssouri and Kansas

MISSOURI

Eureka  (Route 66 State Park)

Stanton  (Meramec Caverns)

Cuba  (Former World's Largest Rocking Chair, Wagon Wheel Motel)

Carthage  (66 Drive-In Theatre)

*********************************

KANSAS

Galena  (Cars on the Route, Galena Mining & Historical Museum)

(Bush Creek   Bridge)

Riverton  (Williams' Store)

Baxter  (Baxter Springs Independent Oil and Gas Station)

What About the Munger-Moss Motel?   --RoadMoKan

Route 66's Quirkiest and Most Wonderful Attractions State by State: Illinois

From Stacker.

ILLINOIS

Grant Park (Chicago)

Pontiac (Mural City)  (Old Log Cabin)

Springfield  (Lauterbach Giant)

Staunton  (Henry's Rabbit Ranch)

Collinsville  (World's Largest Catsup Bottle)

Madison  (Chain of Rocks Bridge)

Who Says There Is Nothing to See in Illinois?  --RoadIll

Ten Small Towns in Illinois Worth a Visit

Q 98.5 FM, Rockford, Illinois.  Johnny V.

The site has pictures and information as to why it was chosen.  I'm just listing.

1.  Galena

2.  Alton

3.  Quincy

4.  Effingham

5.  Woodstock

6.  St. Charles

7.  Metropolis

8.  Byron

9.  Grafton

10.  Carbondale

--RoadNois

Along66, Dec. 2022: Route 66 Open Between Barstow and Ludlow. A Memorial to Joplin's Tornado Victims

I take these from the Route 66 News blog which posts every day and in greater detail and pictures.  I only take the posts of most interest to me.  So, if you want the best coverage of our road, I strongly recommend that site.

DECEMBER 1

Old Route 66 is now open  between Barstow and Ludlow, California.  It had been closed for several years because of bridge washouts.  So, now you can drive it.

DECEMBER 2

A memorial was dedicated in Joplin, Missouri for the 2011 tornado victims.

It is 17 feet tall with the date May 22, 2011 on it and bears the names of the 161 who died when the EF 5 tornado hit.

It is located at the Harry McCornell Arts & Entertainment Complex at Joplin Avenue and 7th Street (Route 66).

Liz and I drove through the area hit by the tornado several months later and the devastation was still indescribable.

--RoadDog

Along66, Nov. 2022: More Neon!! Gearhead Curios

NOVEMBER 25

The Neon Museum of St. Louis has opened on a Route 66 alignment.  (And there sure are a lot of 66 alignments through that city, good luck.)

It is at 3537 Choteau Street (Route 66)

It is owned and operated by artist Deborah Katon.  It is located in a former garage.  They also have vintage signs from St. Louis businesses.  They make new pieces and acquire old ones.  One interesting one is "My Schnucks Brings It Home."  Schnucks is a supermarket chain that started in St. Louis.

Like I say, you can never have too much neon.

NOVEMBER 27

Gearhead Curios in Galena, Kansas, is to hold an official ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 17, 2023.  

It is in a former Texaco station.

Galena is one town really pursuing its Route 66 heritage.  The Four Women on the Route really got things rolling.  Thanks ladies.

--RoadDog

Fifty Songs About States-- Part 5: 'All My Exes Live in Texas'

SOUTH DAKOTA:  "South Dakota Morning"--  Bee Gees

TENNESSEE:  "Tennessee Whiskey"--  Chris Stapleton

TEXAS:  "All My Exes Live in Texas"--  George Strait

UTAH:  "Beehive State"--  Randy Newman

VERMONT:  "Moonlight in Vermont"--  Frank Sinatra

VIRGINIA:  "Sweet Virginia"--  Rolling Stones

WASHINGTON--  "Posse on Broadway"--  Sir Mix-a-Lot

WEST VIRGINIA:  "Green Rolling Hills"--  Emmylou Harris   What?  No "Take Me Home Country Roads?"

WISCONSIN:  "Wisconsin"--  Bon Iver

WYOMING:  "Song of Wyoming:--  John Denver

All My Exes.  --RoadDog

Fifty Songs About States-- Part 4: 'Allentown'

NEW MEXICO:  *"South of Santa Fe"--  Brooks & Dunn*

NEW YORK:  *"Empire State of Mind"--  Jay-Z (featuring Alicia Keys)*

NORTH CAROLINA:  "Carolina in My Mind"--  James Taylor  Great song, but I'd also like to nominate "North Carolina" by Dallas Frazier or "Carolina Girls" by Chairman of the Board.

NORTH DAKOTA:  *"I've Got a Gal I Love in North and South Dakota"--  Frank Sinatra*

OHIO:  *"Bloodbuzz Ohio"--  The National*

OKLAHOMA:  *"Oklahoma Sky"--  Miranda Lambert*  (I would have chosen "You're the Reason God Made Oklahoma" by David Frizzell & Shelly West.)

OREGON:  *"Lumberjack"--  Johnny Cash*

PENNSYLVANIA:  "Allentown:--  Billy Joel

RHODE ISLAND:  *"Rhode Island Is Famous for You"--  Blossom Dearie*

SOUTH CAROLINA:  *"South Carolina Low Country"--  Josh Turner*

Name That Tune (from the above songs):  "Can't You See The Sunshine, Can't You Just Feel The Moonshine."  Answer below.  --RoadDog

"Carolina On My Mind"

Fifty Songs About States-- Part 3: 'Viva Las Vegas'

*  Means I hadn't heard it before.

MASSACHUSETTS:  "I'm Shipping Up to Boston"--  Dropkick Murphys

MICHIGAN:  "Lose Yourself"--  Eminem*

MINNESOTA:  "Say Shh"--  Atmosphere*

MISSISSIPPI--  "Mississippi Girl"--  Faith Hill*

MISSOURI:  "Missouri Waltz"--  Glenn Miller

MONTANA:  "Montana Song"--  Hank Williams, Jr.*

NEBRASKA:  "You and I"--  Lady Gaga*   (Her cool Nebarska guy.)

NEVADA:  "Viva Las Vegas"--  Elvis Presley

NEW HAMPSHIRE:  "New Hampshire"--  Sonic Youth*

NEW JERSEY:  "Jersey Girl"--  Bruce Springsteen

Name That Tune (from the above songs):  "I'm A Sailor Peg And I Lost My Leg."  Answer below.  --RoadDog

"Shipping Up to Boston"

Those Two Oldest Route 66 Fast Food Places (By State): The Cozy and the Frozen

From MSN:  "Your state's oldest fast food place."

ILLINOIS:  COZY DOG DRIVE-IN, Springfield

Founded in 1946, this retro restaurant on historic Route 66 has a lengthy fast food-oriented menu, but, their main attraction is its signature Cozy Dog, which is essentially an early version of the now familiar  corn dog.

Ed Waldmire started toying with the recipes of corn batter-coated deep-fried hot dogs on a stick back in the 1940s and they've continued to be a favorite in Illinois.

Just don't order a "corn dog" there.  You'll be corrected.

******************************

MISSOURI:  TED DREWES FROZEN CUSTARD, St. Louis

Tennis pro Ted Drewes actually opened his  his first frozen custard stand in Florida in 1929, but he soon brought the concept to his home state of Missouri.

While the  frozen custard custard business floundered at first, it began flourishing by the eighties.

In the winetr months, the shop sells Christmas trees that are grown on the Drewes' family Christmas tree farm in Nova Scotia.

Did You Guess Them?   --RoadYum

One More Oldest Route 66 Fast Food Places Clue

Yesterday, I said that I had found a list showing the oldest fast food  place in every U.S, state.  And, two of them were in Route 66 states.

Both of them are really well known to 66ers.  One is in Missouri and the other in Illinois.

So, what are they?

I Mean Really Well Known.  --RoadClue

Two of the Oldest National State Fast-Food Sites on Route 66. Guess What They Are?

I was looking at a list of the oldest fast food places in every state.  Interesting list.

But, two of them are on Route 66.  Can you guess which two?

I'll give the answers next post.

Dem Dogs and Cream.  --RoadFood

Fifty Songs About States-- Part 2: 'Iowa Crazy'

*Means I had not heard it before.  I listened to these on Youn Tube.

HAWAII:  "Happy Hawaii"--  Abba*

IDAHO:  "Private Idaho"--  B-52s*

ILLINOIS:  "Casimir Pulaski Day"--  Sufjan Stevens*  He doesn't mention the name, but it comes from his "Illinoise" album.

INDIANA:  "Indiana"--  Jon McLaughlin

IOWA:  "Iowa Stubborn" from the musical "Music Man"

KANSAS:  "Hood Go Crazy"--  Tech N9ne    Not Dorothy's Kansas for sure.  A Rap state song?

KENTUCKY:  "Kentucky Woman"--  Neil Diamond  (Or also the Deep Purple version)

LOUISIANA:  "Down Louisiana Way"--  George Strait*

MAINE:  "Portland, Maine"--  Tim McGraw

MARYLAND:  "Good Morning Baltimore"--  Original Cast of "Hairspray"

Name That Tune (from the above songs):  "She Shines With Her Own Kind Of Light."  Answer below.  --RoadDog

"Kentucky Woman"

Fifty Songs About U.S. States-- Part 1: 'What Did Della Wear?'

From the January 2, 2023, Stacker by Annalise Manz.

Pop these in the ol' CD Player/cassette player while driving through these states.  *Means I had not heard the song before.  I listened to all these on You Tube.

ALABAMA:  "Sweet Home Alabama"--  Lynyrd Skynyrd

ALASKA:    "Road to Alaska"--  Bee Gees*

ARIZONA:   "Take It Easy"--  Eagles

ARKANSAS:  "Mary Queen of Arkansas"--  Bruce Springsteen*

CALIFORNIA:  "California Gurls"--  Katie Perry*  Of course, I would have chosen "California Girls"by the Beach Boys.

COLORADO--  "Rocky Mountain High"--  John Denver

CONNECTICUT:  "Connecticut"--  Judy Garland*

DELAWARE:  "Delaware"--  Perry Como*  Lots of states in this song like "She went to pay her Taxes."  A really cool song.  Give it a listen.

FLORIDA:  "Floridays"--  Jimmy Buffett

GEORGIA:  "The Devil Went Down to Georgia"--  Charlie Daniels Band

Name That Tune (from the above songs):  "I Was Standing On The Corner."  Answer below.  --RoadDog

"Take It Easy"

Chicago's Pullman National Monument-- Part 8: 'Grandfathers of the Civil Rights Movement'

The Brotherhood of Sleepong Car Porters was led by A. Philip Randolph, who had not been a Pullman Porter, but had made a name for himself as a journalist and a figure in the Harlem Rennaissance.

In 1941, Randolph threatened a march on Washington, D.C., successfully pressuring President Frankon D. Roosevelt into desegregating the war industries.

"They were the grandfathers of the civil rights movement,"  Peterson said.  "A lot of the things that the porters were fighting for are still issues that we as African Americans are still fighting for today.

"Labor Day," he added "for me running this museum represents a call to action."

--RoadDog

Chicago's Pullman National Monument-- Part 7

Still, the porters' working conditions were in many ways, untenable.  They were tip workers.  Porters hardly ever slept, and when they did, it was sometimes sitting up, in smoking cars.

And passengers often didn't call the porters by their names.  They called them George, after George Pullman.  "It was just a fancy way of calling you a boy," according to David A. Peterson, executive director of the National A. Philip Pullman Porter Museum.

When this happened to him,Gaines told the Tribune he would reply, "My name is Benjamin Franklin Gaines.  There's no George anywhere."

Having been excluded from the American Railway Union, the porters formed their own union, the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, in 1925, about three decades after the factory workers' strike.  A dozen years later, they would become the first black union to receive a collective bargaining agreement with a major U.S. corporation -- the Pullman Company.

--RoadDog