Kicking Off America's 248th Birthday-- Part 2: A Festival and Fireworks

SATURDAY, JUNE 29, 2024

Inn the afternoon, I drove over to McHenry for the Taste of McHenry on Main Street festival which ran from 11 to 5 p.m.  I met my biddy Glenn there at Ye Olde Corner Tap on the corner of Main Street and Illinois Highway 31 and we had a drink there before walking out on Main Street which was blocked off for the event.

They had food trucks plus the restaurants on the street had booths offering their food as well.  We stayed away from the arts and crafts areas as both of us need to be getting rid of stuff as opposed to buying stuff.

We stopped for a couple $1.50 drafts at Moe's on Main and went outside afterwards and listened to solo performer Amy Yore.  Glenn had to leave, but I stuck around and saw a five-piece acoustic group put on a real fun show.  Their name was iPop.

Came home and at 8, drove to the Fox Lake American Legion and watched the Fox Lake fireworks display in Nippersink Lake from there.

So, I got my 4th of July's worth:  a parade, festival, bands and fireworks.

Happy Birthday America.  --RoadStarsandStripes

Kicking Off the 248th Birthday of the U.S.A.-- Part 1: A Parade

SATURDAY, JUNE 29

This morning, I drove over to Fox Lake, Illinois, for their annual 4th of July parade.  As Chevy Chase sang inn the movie "Vacation,'  "I love a parade."  And this one did not disappoint. Two things that I particularly like about the Fox Lake parade is ease of getting to it and park and the fact they have a first-class sound system at the judges table/mc spot.

And, unlike my village of Spring Grove, they don't close down every road within a five mile radius two hours before the parade.  That has kept me from seeing a lot of our parades.

This year's grand marshal is Chris Johnson, chairman and CEO of the Chicagoland Classic Cinema Corporation which has about 17 theatres and over a hundred screens.  They have a nice one in Fox Lake that I go to quite often.  The seats are all recliners and prices are $8 and less in Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Of course, we had the usual politicians out in force with elections coming up.  Plus, lots of local businesses and even the Grant Township High School Marching Band participated as did a lot of their athletes.  By far, my favorite part of any parade is the marching band.

Lots of candy was given out to the tykes of course.

Also, it is easy get to the parade parking and getting out of there.

A Parade.  An Annual Tradition for Me.  --Road4th

Why Go Anywhere Else?-- Part 8: A Movie, Trivia, 2 Concerts, and a Fish Boil

THURSDAY, JUNE 20

First official day of Summer.  Went to the Fox Lake Theatre and saw the movie "Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga."  That was one gal you'd best not mess with

Went to Antioch, Illinois, and had dinner at The Lodge and played live trivia.  I was a team by myself and winning until two questions as to the names of Led Zeppelin songs were asked.  I know all their songs, but can only name three.

The It's Thursday concert featured Breakfast Club playing 80s-90s music.  Great show.

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FRIDAY, JUNE 21

We had the annual Spring Grove, Illinois, fish boil at Horse Fair Park.  This is a fundraiser for the Fish Hatchery Park and put on by the famed Fitzgerald's in Genoa City, Wisconsin who specialize in Door County-style fish boils and also have fantastic chicken and ribs with some outstanding bbq sauce.

I then worked at the silent auction booth since I am a member of the Friends of Fish Hatchery.  We had an excellent three-piece group named the Judson Brown Band playing which includes a gal on the violin/fiddle.

Afterwards I went to the Fox Lake American Legion.

Good Times You Know Where.  --RoadFun

Why Go Anywhere Else?-- Part 7: Pizza, a Movie, Woodstock Square, 'Groundhog Day' Movie and Donovan's for Trivia

MONDAY, JUNE 17

Did some flower planting and had a half-price special pizza at Bricks 'N Ivy in Spring Grove.

TUESDAY, JUNE 18

Drove to Woodstock and saw the movie" Bad Boys 5:  Ride or Die."  Then had the taco special at Mary's Mexican Grill which was the site of where Bill Murray stuffed his face at the Tip Top Cafe in the movie :Groundhog Day."  I sat exactly where he did.

Then sat out for awhile in the wonderful historical Woodstock Square where so much of the movie was shot. Went to the Woodstock Library and saw a presentation by Joe Ziemba on "The Monsters of the Midway."  That would be the Chicago Bears from their beginning to 1963.  I'll go into mre detail on this in my Cooter's History Thing blog later.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 19

Went to Donovan's Reef in Twin Lakes, Wisconsin, for weekly live trivia with Uncle Jeffie.

Like I Say, Good Times in the Area.  --RoadFun

Why Go Anywhere Else-- Part 6: Friends of the Fish Hatchery, The Lodge of Spring Grove Grand Opening, Fishing Poles Instead of Cell Phones

SATURDAY, JUNE 15

Met the rest of the Friends of the Fish Hatchery at the Spring Grove Fish Hatchery where we made last-minute preparation's for tomorrow's Father's Day event.

The new bar/restaurant in our town, the Lodge of Spring Grove, is located right by the entrance to the fish hatchery and they have been having their Grand Opening the last two days with bands and crowds.  I stopped on my way out and got a place to sit, not an easy thing to do.  Getting drinks was also a challenge.

The band was called The Wads and they played highly energetic rock from the 80s and 90s.  They was also one of those bulls people used to ride during the "Urban Cowboy" days.  I didn't go on it then, and sure wasn't going on now.

Stopped at Magic Moon on the way home and had some drinks and talked with Frank.

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SUNDAY, JUNE 16

We had our Father's Day event at the Spring Grove Fish Hatchery.  I was involved with welcoming families.  It was so good to see young kids with fishing gear in their hands and not staring at their phones.  Noted storyteller Jim May was also there relating stories of his growing up in Spring Grove.

It ended at 1 p.m. and I drove over to McHenry  and stopped at the PLAV for a Bloody Mary and then to Miller Park on the Fox River and enjoyed a duo from the band Whiskey Devils at the gazebo.  Of course, also had an ear of corn from the American Legion.

Then went to Sunnyside and was happy to find that my buddy Mark had brought back Restrelli's pizza from Clinton, Iowa.  Boy, is that good pizza.

Too Good of Times Right Here.  --RoadStay

Why Go Anywhere Else? --Part 5: A Cruise and the Beer Can Bridge Incident, Fish Fry, Band and the Legion

FRIDAY, JUNE 14

Flag Day.  Put my flag out.  

Went out for my first boating of the year on the Chain O' Lakes with Kelly and Kevin in their new pontoon boat.  It was a maiden voyage for them as they just bought it.  Cruised around Pistakee Lake and things were going great until they tried to go under Beer Cn Bridge which proved to be too low for their bimini top.

Kelly was doing a lot of scrambling to avoid the narrow shorelines and also with other boats coming under the bridge, and then, the motor knocked off.  Some jet ski folks thankfully came to our aide and towed us to the nearby marina.  Found out we had given out of gas and they switched to the other tank and we were on our way.

Had a couple drinks at the Legion on Nippersink Lake.  Then, they took the boat home and we all met up with Glen and Barb at Johnny's Cafe for fish fry and I went to Lake Front Park to see the band Eliminator do their ZZ Top tribute and then met everyone else at the Legion.

--RoadDog

Why Go Anywhere Else?-- Part 4: The Lodge of Spring Grove, Pink Catawba Wine, Woodstock Square, McHenry Civil War Round Table, Magee Teachers and a Concert

MONDAY, JUNE 10

Went to the ribbon cutting ceremony of Spring Grove's newest restaurant/bar called The Lodge of Spring Grove.  This gives us three places within a fourth of a mile on Blivin Road.  We also have Saylor Mick's and The Grove.  Ordered food.  

It is owned by the same people who own the Lodge of Antioch and the Rivalry in the same town.

Sat out FP and enjoyed some pink catawba wine which used to be one of Liz and my favorites along with Blue Nun.

TUESDAY, JUNE 11

I had Dave the Landscaper and a buddy come over and worked on the berm by the deck and gazebo area.  

Drove to Woodstock and enjoyed the Woodstock Square, one of my favorite places anywhere.  Met several other members of the McHenry Civil War Round Table at 3 Brothers for dinner then heard a presentation of John Brown.  Was he a Hero or Terrorist.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 12

Went to Donovan's for the usual live trivia with Uncle Jeffie.

THURSDAY, JUNE 13

Met the Magee retired teachers at Cyndi's home in Twin Lakes for breakfast.  Cut the grass and did some yardwork before driving to McHenry for pre-concert cocktails at the Legion, the Southbound country band in Veterans Park and back to the Legion where they were having karaoke and I got up and sang "The I-95 Song also known as the

"Asshole Song."

Were You Born An _________  --RoadDog

Why Go Anywhere Else?-- Part 3: D-Day, a Shrimp Po Boy, Michael Lescher Band, Rumor Has It Band and Courtney & Chris Duo.

THURSDAY, JUNE 6

D-Day 80th Anniversary.  

FRIDAY, JUNE 7

Met Kevin and Kelly at Mary's Hideaway in Johnsburg and had a Shrimp Po Boy, then to Fox Lake's Lake Front Park for the opening Friday Night Concert starring the Michael Lescher Band.  It got cold and I left and went to the Legion for 50-50.

SATURDAY, JUNE 8

Went to Captain's Quarters on Fox Lake and saw the Rumor Has It Band.

SUNDAY, JUNE 9

Drove to McHenry and had my usual bloody mary at the PLAV, and then to Miller Park where I saw the duo Courtney & Chris.  Then to the McHenry Legion for a couple and finished up at Sunnyside.

--RoadDog

Why Go Anywhere Else?-- Part 2: Flowers, Sunnyside, Indy 500, Car Show, Moose, Donovan's, Fish Hatchery and Ribs

MONDAY, JUNE 3

Bought flowers for half price at Jewel.  Flowers are sure expensive nowadays, but half price makes it better.  Went to Sunnyside Tavern in Johnsburg and enjoyed the $1.50 pints special today.

TUESDAY, JUNE 4

Sue and Paul came by and we worked on getting a spot at the Legion in Speedway for next year.  Discovered quite a few cicadas in the yard.  Bought some more sale glowers at the Jewel in Volo.

Frank and I went to the car show at the Moose Lodge in McHenry, but because of rain, only a few there.  Lord forbid their babies getting wet.  I went to Saylor Mick's in Spring Grove for trivia.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5

Went to Donovan's in Twin Lakes for trivia, then to the Spring Grove Fish Hatchery for a final meeting before our Father's Day Fish extravaganza.

Had a full slab of ribs meal at Half-Times for Wednesday special $16 in Johnsburg and went to Sunnyside.

--RoadDog

Why Go Anywhere Else? Living Around Here Is Like Living at a Resort Area

People ask me why I don't travel a lot during the summer.  I like to go away for a few short 2-4 day trips, but usually prefer to stay home.  There is always something to do.

Here is a list of things I did the first week back from the Indy 500 race.

TUESDAY, MAY 28

John Fogerty's 79th birthday and Bob Stroud featured ten of his solo and Creedence Clearwater Revival songs.  My favorite all-time group.

Met a group of the Usual Suspects at Half-Times in Johnsburg, Illinois, for pizza and talking about good times in the past that we had.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29

The cicadas are definitely now here.  Went to Donovan's Reef in Twin Lakes, Wisconsin, for trivia and happy hour prices.

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THURSDAY, MAY 30

Drove to McHenry, Illinois, and met Tom and Frank at the Legion for a couple drinks and then to the concert in Veterans Park featuring Kevin Purcell & the Nightburners.

FRIDAY, MAY 31

I was supposed to drive out to Clinton, Iowa, for a couple days with Mark, but he had back problems and had to go to the hospital by ambulance.  Went to Sunnyside in Johnsburg.  Met Kevin and Kelly, Barb and Glen at the Fox Lake American Legion for 50-50.

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SATURDAY, JUNE 1

Went to the Fox Lake Legion and saw the band Tony & the Affects doing all oldies songs in the afternoon.  Then to Magic Moon in Spring Grove and was glad to see my buddy Frank was back working there after some health problems.

SUNDAY, JUNE 2

Bob Stroud played his annual tribute to Summers Past.  He played songs from fifty years ago, June 2, 1974 for three hours on his Rock and Roll Roots show in Chicago's WDRV, the Drive.  I am posting the song list on my Down da Road I Go blog.  These are songs that were on the radio and in your record collection for this date fifty years ago.

Drove to McHenry and had a bloody mary at the Polish Legion, went to Miller Park and saw the duo Anderlik & Church with the Fox River in the background.  Then to the McHenry Legion for post-concert libations and then to Saylor Mick's in Spring Grove for a $4 bloody mary and $7 Italian beef sandwich with fries.

Like I Said.  Good Times in the Area.  --RoadParty

Wilmington's Gemini Giant-- Part 6

The day after Holly Barker's announcement, Ryan Jandura started a GoFundMe.  Jandura remembered taking trips to Wilmington to fish or visit antique shops with his grandparents as a kid and seeing  the "giant, enormous figure  that towered over the road."

It felt "larger than life," he said.  When the 44-year-old moved to Wilmington as an adult, he frequently passed the Gemini Giant on drives with his wife and helped make jewelry to sell at the restaurant's gift store.

"He became a part of my life," he said.

Donations from hundreds of people poured in.  One person said the Gemini Giant brings so much charm to our little part of the universe," and another said they're planning to travel Route 66 in April for their 50th wedding anniversary trip and hope to see the astronaut.  A local Veterans of Foreign Wars post also helped with fundraising.

--RoadHappy

Wilmington's Gemini Giant-- Part 5: 'Then It Will Be Destroyed'

So when Holly Barker, owner of the Gemini Giant and the now-closed Launching Pad restaurant, posted February 24 on X that she was auctioning the giant off and its trademark rights, the Wilmington community sprang into action.

She said she wanted at least $100,000 for the statue.

"I want this junk trinket off my property," said Barker, who still owns the restaurant.  "If this is sabotaged in any way and the Gemini Giant doesn't sell, then it will be destroyed."

I had such hopes back when Holly Barker and her boyfriend bought the Launching Pad and statue.  They seemed very committed to reopening the place and assuring that the Giant would remain.  But that Holly is sure not the one we have as of this year.  Something seems to have snapped.

No real Route 66er would ever say anything like that.  Liz and I ate at the Launching Pad once and had great food and all that great Route 66 ambiance.  And, of course, that magnificent muffler man.  About the worst thing we could say was that the Launching Pad and the Polka Dot Drive-In in nearby Braidwood were too close to each other.  You couldn't eat at one and then again at the other going either way.

--RoadMissing

Wilmington's Gemini Giant-- Part 4: Now Only About 200 survive

In general, Joel Baker says there have been ebbs and flows with the statues popularity.  Largely due to a negative sentiment  toward the statues that popped up during Lady Bird Johnson's Beautification Project, they fell out of favor by the 1980s.

But, a decade later, their resurgence began, a trend that has continued.

"Towns want the giants back, and they want neon back," he said.  "They want all that nostalgia from the 60's back that people were working so hard to get rid of-- now we all love it."

At their peak in the 1960s and early 1970s, there were as many as 500 across the country Baker said. Only about 200 are left today, including 10 or so in Illinois, making them a hot commodity for private collectors.

--RoadDog

Wilmington's Gemini Giant-- Part 3

Back in late March and early April I wrote about how the famed Muffler Man called the Gemini Giant was able to be saved for the City of Wilmington, Illinois.  This is the rest of the article.

Businesses along Route 66 needed a way to stand out among the competition, and many bought the large, fiberglass statues for advertising.

These statues included lumberjacks, cowboys and eventually became roadside attractions in themselves.  They later earned the nickname "Muffler Men" from the founders of the travel website RoadsideAmerica.com, who had seen some of the statues holding mufflers.

A former owner of the Wilmington, Illinois, restaurant The Dairy Delight, later renamed it The Launching Pad, bought the Gemini Giant in 1965, where it remained, said Joe Baker, founder of American Giants, a company dedicated to finding the statues and sharing their stories.

It has become one of the most  famous and photographed Muffler Men, he said, and last remaining spaceman statue.

--RoadMuffler

Savannah Bound-- Part 27: The Mighty 8th Air Force and Home

April 9, Tuesday

Last day in Savannah, but I didn't leave until late in the afternoon so we took a ride over to the nearby National Museum of the Mighty 8th in Pooler, Georgia.

This museum tells the story of this Army Air Force group which had a major role in the downfall of Germany through its bombing missions during World War II.

This is a museum you could spend days in (planning on a return to it next trip to Savannah).  Lots of interactive exhibits and movies.  At one point you actually get to experience a bombing mission.

This is especially poignant now as we commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

We met Julie there and had lunch at Miss Sophie's, located on premises. Great food at very reasonable prices.

As we neared my return flight I was sure hoping things would not go like my trip to Savannah and I'm happy to report that everything went smoothly and we got to Milwaukee.

I'll definitely fly again.

--RoadSky

Savannah Bound-- Part 26: Savannah's History

MONDAY, APRIL 8

Next, we walked across the yard to the Savannah History Museum which showcases the city's history from1733 to the present.

It is located in the old Central of Georgia passenger shed whose construction began in the 1850s and was completed in the 1870s.  It is home to more than 10,000artifacts including Johnny Mercer's Oscar and Grammy awards and the bench made famous by Forrest Gump sitting on it in the movie of the same name.

Of course, there is a lot to do with Savannah during the American Revolution and the Battle of Savannah in which the British defeated attacking American/French forces and resulted in the death of Casimir Pulaski.   And, of course, Savannah's role in the Civil War.

Also on the grounds is the rebuilt British fortifications at Spring Hill.

After leaving Savannah, I went with Julie as she made her rounds feeding various feral cat colonies around Pooler.

--RoadDog

Savannah Bound-- Part 25: The Cat and the Trains

Daisy them kitten was doing much better this morning.  Only she didn't look much like a Daisy.  She looked more like something else.  Julie said she looked like one of hose little creatures in the "Star Wars" movie and she sure did look like an Ewok.  That became her new name.

Today was our trip to Savannah to see some of Julie's favorite stuff.  History.  Well, Ed and I liked it anyway.

First stop was the Georgia State Railroad Museum.  It was formerly called the Roundhouse Railroad Museum and still called that by many, including Ed.  It is located at the Central of Georgia Railway site and is the most complete antebellum train site.

Probably the most striking aspect of the place is the partial round house and operating turntable, machine shop as well as all sorts of other railroad related things. Also lots of engines and railroad cars.

--RoadTrain

Savannah Bound-- Part 24: Church, Breakfast, Mansion and Kitten

SUNDAY, APRIL 7

I went with Ed and my sister Julie to their church.  It is one of the new kinds of churches with a rock band backing the choir and quite informal.

Afterwards we went to Henry's for breakfast.

Later in the afternoon, we took a short drive to Bluffton, South Carolina, where my nephew is building quite a home for his family.  Everything in it is first rate.  As such he is in better housing than either of his uncles or even his mom.  He runs his own construction company doing a lot of work around the upscale Bluffton area (not far from Hilton Head, S.C.).

We stopped back by Pooler Paws (or Cat House as Julie and Ed refer to it.)

I found a little kitten who was orphaned and had been put into a cage with another mama cat.  She was cowering and really taking a beating from the other kittens when they were playing.  We ended up taking her back to Julie's house.  That was one happy kitten to be taken out of there.  Her name was Daisy.

Very tempting.

--RoadDog

Savannah Bound-- Part 23: Saying Goodbye to Olaf, Final Four and a Wellness-Check

SATURDAY, APRIL 6

A couple came over and adopted Olaf the kitten which took the temptation away from me.  Sorry Julie.

I sure enjoyed watching the NCAA Men's Final Four games today, but Ed doesn't care about college basketball and Julie only cares about the University of Georgia Bulldogs football.  But, she toughed it out and watched.

The Purdue (who I was pulling for)- NC State game was close in the first half, then a blowout for the Boilermakers.  And, Alabama (who'd have ever figured Alabama in a college basketball Final Four) game with UConn was really close until the last five minutes.  Then UConn blew them out.

During the games I received a phone call from my home town police department saying that my neighbors had requested a well-being check and they had to break my side garage door down.  I was not upset at all.  It is good my neighbors keep an eye on me since I now live alone and because of my age, 72.

--Old RoadDog

Savannah Bound-- Part 22: Julie's Old House and a Low Country Boil

We then drove over to the house Julie lived in with her kids and ex-husband in Richmond Hills.  She lived within a few miles of Fort McAllister but only went there a very few times.  She is not much of a history buff.  It was sitting vacant when an upstairs pipe broke and flooded the whole place and led to a lot of damage, but the new owners are rebuilding it.

The traffic on I-95 was horrible coming back.

We had a Low Country Boil for dinner from a local place, Wood's Seafood.  If you're ever in Georgia or South Carolina and have the opportunity to have one of these, go for it.  It consists of sea food, sausage,  potatoes and corn on the cob.  Good eating.

And, a great price.  It is more than you can eat at one meal so leftovers and costs just $11.

Good Eating in the Neighborhood.  --RoadLowCountry

Savannah Bound-- Part 21: Fort McAllister

SATURDAY, APRIL 6

Olaf (the kitten) somehow ended up sleeping with me.  Went to Julie's Cat House, Pooler Paws, and did some cleanup work.

Then, Ed and I got away and headed to Richmond Hill, Georgia, which is south of Savannah.

Our aim today was to visit Confederate Fort McAllister which is now under the direction of the Georgia Sate Parks and has a good museum with a very informative short film about the fort.  The fort itself is an earthen fort much like Fort Fisher but much smaller.

Fort McAllister is the southern-most of the forts that guarded Savannah during the war.  It was attacked by Union ships seven different times during the war, with several of the attacks being from Union monitors.  Every time there were minimal casualties and damage done to it.

The fort finally fell when General Sherman arrived culminating his famed March to the sea.

--RoadDog

Just Got Back from Indy

I got back from the Indy 500 race yesterday.  And, of course, found it necessary to take a nap when I got home as all that fun can sure wear an old fart down.  We had our usual good time even though the American Legion Post 500, where we've been staying in the RV since 2014 messed up our reservations.

We found another campground about 7 miles away at another race track.  Fortunately some friends had extra parking tickets close by the Legion so we had a close-in parking spot.

Despite the rain delay on Sunday, this was the best race I've seen sine I first started going to The Greatest Spectacle in Racing in 2012.

I'll start writing about this trip when I finish April's trip to Savannah.

--RoadDog

Savannah Bound-- Part 20: Records, Huc-A-Poos and a Steak

FRIDAY, APRIL 5

Yesterday was Ed and my history day.  Today was our music day.  Like I said, a brother from another mother.  Thanks Julie.

We drove into Savannah, listening to an oldies station and quizzing each other on song names and performers.  First stop was sat a mom and pop style record/CD store called  Rody's.  I bought two CDs, one by Delbert McClinton and one by James Hunter Six.

Then, we drove out to Wilmington Island, near Tybee Island and went to Coastal Records where Ed bought an old Beatles LP.

When I found out we were near Tybee Island, I mentioned it and wanted to know if a great dive diner called Huc-A-Poos was still there and the owner said it sure was and was as good as ever.  Liz and I had finally found it after looking all over Tybee and it was worth the search.  They feature extremely rustic seating and some of the best giant slices of ubique pizza I'd ever had.

Ed had never been there before but will definitely come back.

Returned home and Julie introduced me to a tabby kitten named Olaf who was quite a character.  I believe one of her goals was to get me to go home with a kitten.  Tempted.

They grilled a steak and we watched the Iowa women's basketball game in the Final Four of that tournament and they will go to the championship game against South Carolina.

These days, everywhere you go it's Caitlyn Clarke.

--RoadRecords

Savannah Bound-- Part 19: A Train Club Meeting and Ricky Skaggs

Thursday, April 4

We returned to their place and decided to go to a train club meeting to be held in Savannah at the Round House.  It was a bit of a museum and there were around fifteen people there who are train fanatics.

Julie had also come across two free tickets to see a concert in Savannah in an old theater.  The show was put on by a favorite country singer of mine, but also quite a bluegrass artist, Ricky Skaggs.

He had a whole slew of Top Ten and #1 hits from 1981 to 1989.  That included eleven #1s, two #2s and six Top Tens.  Now, that's some production.

Some of his hits:

"Crying My Heart Out Over You"

"I Don't Care"

"Heartbroke"

"I Wouldn't Change You If I Could"

"Highway 40 Blues"

He has a top notch band backing his as well and featured them singing and playing on some songs.  They were Country Thunder.

Unfortunately, he said this show was billed as a bluegrass show and that was what he only played, none of those great country songs.  But, what a show he put on and sure seemed to be enjoying himself.

Quite a Long Day.  --RoadDog

Savannah Bound-- Part 18: Beaufort and Beaufort National Cemetery

APRIL 4

Next we went to Beaufort, S.C., which is pronounced differently than Beaufort, N.C., though spelled the same way.  South Carolina's  Beaufort is pronounced Bewfort and N.C.'s Bofort.  

One thing I can say is that they have some really narrow streets in the residential.  We drove by the huge house where the movie "The Big Chill"was filmed.  This movie had one of the all-time great soundtracks for folks my age.

Last stop in Beaufort was at the Beaufort National Cemetery.  It has over 24,000 interments.  A large number of them are from the Civil War.  Some 9,000 are Union soldiers (3,607 unknown, 2,800 POWs from the camp at Millen and 1,700 black soldiers).

We visited the Confederate section where 102 are buried.  

There is also a section for members of the USCT including 19 members of the 55th Massachusetts Infantry regiment, the lesser-known sister  regiment of the famed 54th Massachusetts that made the attack on Fort Wagner as shown in the movie "Glory."

--RoadDog

Savannah Bound-- Part 17: Fort Fremont

THURSDAY, APRIL 4

From 1891 to 1895, a drydock was built was built at the naval station; the only one along the Atlantic coast south of Norfolk.  The base grew in importance.  Twenty naval ships visited the base, including the USS Maine which picked up provisions before continuing on to her date with history in Havana Harbor.

Fort Fremont was built on Saint Helena Island in 1899 by the Army Corps of Engineers across the Beaufort River from the Naval Station.

The main weapons in the fort consisted of three 10-inch breech-loaded disappearing cannons in Battery Jessup and two 4.7-inch rapid fire gins at Battery Fornance.  (Disappearing cannons could be lowered behind the fort's walls after firing and reloaded.)

It was a part of the U.S. Endicott System of forts.

It was deactivated in 1912 and offered for sale in 1921.  After that it was left to the elements and became overgrown.

But now, a group has begun work to bring it back.

--RoadDog

Savannah Bound-- Part 16: Fort Fremont

After leaving Parris Island, we commenced a long drive over narrow roads to Fort Fremont.  Much of the way the road was lined with trees just dripping Spanish moss and all were blowing in the wind.  A real gone with the wind thing if you know what I mean.

Did I mention it was extremely windy today plus that wind blew cold right through you.

As we neared Fort Fremont, the roads got almost to one lane with trees and bushes right up next to it.  Then it was as if we were in someone's driveway and I'm looking at Ed.

We finally got to Fort Fremont which was an 1898 Endicott U.S. fortification built around the time of the Spanish-American War to protect the U.S. Naval Station at Port Royal which is one of the largest deep-water harbors on the Atlantic Coast.

During the Civil War the Union's South Atlantic Blockading Squadron established a massive base here.  From 1891 to 1895, a  dry dock was built here, the only one south of Norfolk, Virginia.

--RoadDog

Savannah Bound-- Part 15: Parris Island Museum and Traditions

We parked and went into the Parris Island Museum.  Of course, there was a lot of Marine4 Corps stuff in there as well as the making of the Parris Island Recruit Training facility.  I especially enjoyed the rooms and exhibits on the site's past and particularly the Civil War, of course.

The Battle of Port Royal took place there.  It was one of the United States' first amphibious operations, involving the U.S. Navy and Army and happened on November 7, 1861.  The entrance to the sound was guarded by two Confederate forts, Fort Walker on Hilton Head Island and Fort Beauregard on Phillips Island.

The fall of the forts led to the Union occupation of Beaufort, South Carolina, which became a major base for the U.S. Navy for operations in the area between Charleston and Savannah for the duration of the war.

We stopped and had the buffet lunch at the former officers club, now a restaurant called Traditions.  The place was full of families and the new Marines.  Quite a few had tee shirts with the picture of their son or daughter on them.

A Proud Day, No Doubt.  ----RoadMarine

Savannah Bound-- Part 14: A Brother From Another Mother

THURSDAY, APRIL 4

Julie's boyfriend Ed is like a brother from another mother to me.  Everything I like, he likes.  And that includes history and music.  He even was a deejay for a long time, just as I was.  He also goes big-time heavy into collecting stuff.  His downfall revolves around model trains and weapons.

We spent a lot of time together over these next few days.  And, today was definitely one of those.

First, we drove to Parris Island, the home of a USMC training base that I have often heard of, but never seen.  Ed used to go there often to deejay events.  So, he knew his way around.  Parris Island is located a short distance from where Julie lives, just over the Georgia-South Carolina border by Hilton Head and Beaufort, S.C..

Parris Island is a lot bigger that I thought it was.  We had to have the vehicle checked before entering the base which was very crowded with families of recruits who had just finished training.  They were having graduation tomorrow.

To say there were a lot of proud parents and family members there would be an understatement.

RoadDog

Savannah Bound-- Part 13: Why Do the Gates Have to Be So Far Apart?

WEDNESDAY, APRIL3

Well, I figure the number 13 is a fitting way to end my day of flying.  If something could go wrong it did.  However, Delta did the best the could do and I intend to start flying more often (even if I have to go through Atlanta).

One more thing I'd like to mention is that today the gates could not have been any farther apart.  I would walk past gate after gate, all empty.  And, hey were always at the very FAR end of the terminal. And, of course, there were the two terminals in Atlanta.

I sure got my walking exercise in today.

I will be flying again, though.

Actually, the trip home went smoothly.

--RoadTired

Savannah Bound-- Part 12: Finally Get to Savannah

WEDNESDAY APRIL 3

And, this flight left on time for a short hop of about 45 minutes to Savannah.  I figured since it was s late, almost 11 p.m., that there would be plenty of room on the plane. Wrong again.  Just about every seat was taken.  Now, I began to wonder if my wayward carry-on piece of luggage would also arrive in Savannah when I did.  

Regardless, I am finally on my way.

Called my sister who would be meeting me in Savannah and she was already aware of it as she was tracking my progress.  Apologized for being so late.  At least she lives close to the airport, several miles away.

We boarded.  Once again I had that neat video screen in front of me (remember the one on the plane from Milwaukee to Atlanta didn't work after they got a computer glitch fixed) and I had a set of earpieces to listen to t now (free of charge).  I saw that they had the movie "Cool Hand Luke" on it so watched 45 minutes of it before we landed.

Touchdown in Savannah just after midnight and walked through an empty airport, except for those of us  getting off.  And, glory be, my luggage was at the carousel.

Walked outside and within a minute, Julie pulled up and I was on my way to her place.

A Real Long Day.  What We Had Here Was Failure To Communicate.  --RoadTired

Savannah Bound-- Part 11: One Last Trick

Okay, I am finally in Terminal A, or perhaps the concourse leading to the terminal.  There sure were a lot of places to eat there.  I mean, pretty much anything you could want.  And, even though it was now 9 p.m., there were people everywhere.  Of course, if you fly Delta there is a good chance you'll end up in Atlanta at some point.

Most times I've been in an airport after 8 it is very dead.  Just me and whoever gets off the plane and some disinterested workers.

But, one good thing, after studying one of those way-up high departure boards I was able to see that my Savannah leg of the trip was leaving from Gate A21.

And, I had one more good one waiting for me.  I finally, at long last, got to Gate A21 and the sign out by it said this flight was going to Oklahoma City, not Savannah.  

Oh No!!  How can this be?

I went to the counter and the lady there explained that I was at the correct gate, but that the flight to Oklahoma City was leaving before my flight.

So, I grab a seat and read some in my book.  At least I got my book back.

Maybe I'll Get There Tonight or Early Tomorrow Morning.  --RoadFlyerMaybe?

`

Savannah Bound-- Part 10: Gate, What Gate?

These escalators took me up to Terminal A.  I was finally there.  

My flight from Milwaukee had arrived at 7 p.m., and the flight to Savannah wasn't leaving until 10:54.  I figured I had plenty of time to get to my next gate, but as it was turning out, I was going to need a whole lot of it finding it.

Oh where oh where can my gate be?

Compounding the problem was the fact that all arrival/departure boards were up high.  As I age, reading signs with small print that are up high has become very difficult.  I first started noticing it at fast food places with their high menus.  I have to put on my glasses.  (And, of course, those high fast food menus now keep changing, so about the time I figure out what I want to order, I have to wait and start all over again.)

And, guess what.  My eyeglasses were in my carry on bag which was elsewhere.  No glasses.

The nearest I could make out from the Atlanta boards was that I was leaving from Gate A-21.  

Just having a Time Today.  --RoadHuh?

Sorry to Hear About the Passing of Ramona Lehman

Just recently I came across mention of the death of Ramona Lehman, who with her husband Bob operated the famed Munger-Moss Motel in Lebanon, Missouri for so many years last August.

I was off line completely from May to December last year so did not hear anything about her death.

Of all the great old-timers Liz and I met on Route 66 over the years, we liked Ramona and Bob the best and looked forward to our nearly every year trip to stay with them at that neat motel.  I especially enjoyed the morning coffee inn the lobby when we would talk about all sorts if things and , of course with visitors checking out.

I doubt that she ever met someone she didn't like.  But, never tell her that Illinois has better Route 66 signage than Missouri as that could get you on her bad side quickly.  I did that once.

I was looking forward to visiting her again this year, but guess not.  It will also be different as Liz won't be with me either.

So Long Ramona, Old Friend.  --RoadDog

Savannah Bound-- Part 9: Hiding Terminals On Me

APRIL 3, 2024

Well, I'm finally in Atlanta.  Just 40 minutes by air away from my final destination, Savannah.  Lots of fun and games in Milwaukee.  Now I just have to find my next gate.  How hard can that be?  Even so, I expected it to be at the opposite end of the terminal where we landed.  My gates are always as far as you can get away from each other.

Buy, wait, they don't call Atlanta's airport the busiest people-wise in the U.S..  Atlanta is the exact reason I chose not to fly out of O'Hare serving Chicago. That would have made my choices much larger in flights and times.

But, Atlanta is exactly what I hate about O'Hare.  Way too many people.  If you stopped to try to figure out something, you took your life in your own hands.  I got bumped into and had many close calls walking those corridors.

And, even better, my next gate wasn't even in the same corridor.  It was in a Concourse A.  So, I started walking and signs were confusing, but eventually I got to a place where I saw an arrow pointing to Concourse A.  I followed it and saw that evidently there was also a Concourse T located somewhere near A.

I went down a really long escalator and there was a sign down there saying to take the train to A and T.  I got onboard and had to hold on for dear life as there were no seats.  I got off when an announcement said we were at Concourse A.  Finally, getting somewhere.

I started walking and kept a-walking until I see a sign saying I was at Terminal T.  What happened to Terminal A?  Shouldn't I have seen A at some point in my walk?  I finally found someone to ask and was told I had to get back on the train and go back to Terminal A.  How did I miss Terminal A?

Plus, about now I was feeling the need to go to the bathroom and I sure wasn't seeing any of them wherever it was that I was now.  I got off at Terminal A and this time saw escalators going way up. Was this how I missed Terminal A?  Did they hide it upstairs?

Tune In Tomorrow for More of My Atlanta Adventure.  --RoadLost

Savannah Bound-- Part 8: Finally Get to Atlanta

With a smile on my face at having recovered my lost book (well, forgotten book, must have been a senior thing) I got ready to leave the airport, but stopped at the Delta check-in counter to see what was going on with the flight.  They were very helpful and said the plane would be leaving at 5 and got me rebooked on it.

So, I returned to the gate and grinned and bared it at the TSA security point again.  Just loads of fun, but again at least there wasn't a wait.  Nothing like having to go through that not once, but twice.

And, out to the gate and this time got on the plane and we became airborne.  Sadly, before we left, they had a computer glitch and had to shut it down and reboot.  Once rebooted, however, we couldn't get the screens in front of us at the sea to work.

Well, at least I had a good book to read now.

Lots of clouds on the way and at times rough flying.  The atmosphere was sure in a mood today.  Sadly, with all the clouds I couldn't look at the ground, something I enjoy doing when flying.

The clouds finally broke when we neared Atlanta.  And, we landed.

Finally.  Almost There.  --RoadFlyer

Savannah Bound-- Part 7: No Flight, Found Lost Book

Still April 3, Wednesday

It rained the whole time I was in Milwaukee.  Lots of puddles at the airport.  The pilot said they were readying to leave, but a minute later said a gauge was not checking out, but they were working on it.  Several minutes later, he came back on and said that everyone would have to deplane while they went further with there investigating.

But, he was certain they'd have it righted shortly.  

After we were all off, an announcement was made that the flight was cancelled.  

Oh boy.

Unfortunately, I couldn't get any information on my cell phone and there was a huge line at the gate with people making other plans.

I decided to go home and made that long walk down the terminal, past the TSA check point and out to the front area.  I figured that as long as I was there and that Renaissance Books was open, I'd go there and see if I had left the book I had bought what seemed like many years ago, might be there.

The owner came over to the checkout counter and I told him what had happened, but before I could name the book I'd lost, he held it up.  I had forgotten the book at the counter after I had paid for it and the gal there hadn't noticed until I was gone.

I told him I thought he had one of the nicest old book stores anywhere and who would ever expect to find one in an airport?

Mystery solved and the mess at the gate had at least allowed me to get my book back.

Reading Material.  --RoadBook

Savannah Bound-- Part 6: Boarding a Plane and On My Way

At 1:45 a plane drew up to our gate and a lot of people got off.  Most were pulling carry-ons or toting back packs.  

After awhile, we started boarding.  Boarding goes by group.  Guess which of these nine groups I was in?

Listed in order of when called to board:

Free Board (persons with children or needing help

Active/retired military

First Class

Diamond Medallion

Travelers Class

Sky Priority

Main 1

Main 2

Main 3

Being somewhat of a peon, I got on with the last group.  Most people got on in the last three groups.

But, at least I'm on the plane and waiting to leave.  I found that I had a screen in front of me with lots of movies offered and started watching it.

Last On, But On My Way (Or So I Thought).  --RoadFlying

Savannah Bound-- Part 5: Where's My Gate, Cell Phones

April 3

I am on Concourse D and had seen at Gate 49.  It was at the end of a long hallway which then split and went in two directions.  I looked at a sign which told which gates were where.  But, no Gate 49.  One direction said Gates 36 to 48 and the other sign said Gates 51 to 58.  Walked around a bit, but didn't find any Gate 49.  Looked at my ticket again.

Oh, Gate 47.  I now knew where my gate was.

I had worked up a hunger and since there is very little food on the planes anymore, I went to a place and bought a $7 giant bagel with cream cheese.  Very filling.

I found out that my flight had been delayed 44 minutes.  No problem with my connection however.  Still had plenty of time in Atlanta to get tom my next gate.  Pretty much all Delta flights go through Atlanta.

So, I missed reading my book that I had somehow misplaced and sat at the gate watching people.  Everyone was on their cell phones.  But one guy was on a smart phone, but put it away and pulled out a book to read.  Whoa!!  What's this?  Then I saw he was charging his cell phone but evidently had a backup plan.

More and more people showed up and soon they announced that there was going to be a problem with carry on storage and they would check your carryon through to your destination with no charge.  I volunteered my piece.  However, my glasses were in it and I found that to be a problem when I got to Atlanta.  Everyone had carryon luggage.

--Still in the Airport.  --RoadDog

Savannah Bound-- Part 4: Now the Fun Starts

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3rd

Left the bookstore and quickly encountered the TSA security check in line.  Again, no line and had to produce my driver's license and begin disrobing.  Off came the belt, shoes, wallet, everything in my pockets, my sweatshirt, cell phone and then came the full body scan.

I tell you, it is enough to discombobulate you.  And it sure did.  I was able to sit down and redress and get everything together, but wait a minute.  Something is missing.  Where is that book I just bought?  Checked all over.  No book.  Went back to the TSA check in line and after awhile got someone's attention as to my plight and was told they would ask the other agents.  Waited a while and no response, so asked another one who said they had not found it.

Little did I know at the time, but this was the very beginning of happy times in the airport.  Just as I had feared.  

With a sad heart at my loss, I started down the hallway to my gate.

--RoadDog

Savannah Bound-- Part 3: So Far, So Good and a Good Book

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3rd

At first everything went well at the Milwaukee Airport, even though I had to do some looking to find the Saver Parking Lot, but eventually did and got my ticket and there was a bus waiting right where I parked and took me and a couple other people to our check-in areas on the lower level.  I got off at Delta and approached the check-in, worried that I would have a line or have to mess with those kiosks.  I am not very good at kiosks.

There was no line at the counters and walked right up, gave them my name and they gave me both boarding tickets I would be needing today.

So far, no problem.  Even my suitcase was proper carry-on size.  

I went up the escalator and there was a place I was hoping would be there, the Renaissance Book Store that I remembered from previous flights out of Milwaukee.  This is an old-time bookstore selling all sorts of used books, especially two whole sets of shelves on Civil War books.  And, I had plenty of time to look for a book.  I bought a $12.50 book and the life and times of Charles Read, CSN, who had quite a distinguished career in the Confederate Navy.  It was titled "Sea Wolf of the Confederacy."

Now, You just Don't Expect to Find an Old Bookstore at an Airport.  --Old B-R'er

Savannah Bound-- Part 2: Snow and a Good Deal

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3, 2024

So here I am getting ready to drive to the Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport.  It is named for Army General Billy Mitchell who was raised in Milwaukee and was an air power advocate for the military.

And, what a day to be heading up into the skies.  It started snowing heavily around 3 am and continued all morning, eventually amassing around 3 inches on the deck railings by the time I left.  It then proceeded to snow the whole way until I got to about 15 miles from the airport.  Sloppy driving, but at least no road accumulation.

I did some last minute packing and found that I could get all my clothes into what I hoped could be considered a carry-on piece of luggage to avoid the $35 extra to check in a larger piece. Even then, I felt I had a good flying deal at a $317 round trip price.  At first I had considered driving, but after I paid for gas, eating, as well as a motel room both ways that would about equal the plane flight.  Not to mention the wear and tear on the car for the 3000 miles.

--RoadBird

Savannah Bound: Back on the Plane

From April 3 to April 9 I visited my sister and her boyfriend in Pooler, Georgia, outside Savannah not too far from the Savannah International Airport.

This was the first time I had been on a plane since at least 2011, nor had I been on them much before that.  However, in the 70s, 80s and 90s Liz and I often flew to destinations.  Liz became uncomfortable flying and stopped and I later joined her when it seemed to me that the airlines had stopped being nice to their customers and, of course, the obstacle course you had to go through to get out to the gate going through the TSA checkpoints. 

Kind of made me feel like the folks going through the Nazi checkpoints in the WW II movies.  Plus, you had that full body scan and almost had to disrobe.  No shoes, no belts, no keys, no wallets.  A regular no shirt, no shoes, no service thing.

Plus there was the the extra charge for luggage enacted as well as all the food you get in regular seats.

I hate lines and crowds.  I avoid them as much as I can.  And then there is the question of what you can have in your luggage, especially in the pills and toiletries department.  Also, a whole lot of it is done via smart phones, something I am learning but not good at.

Scared at the Airport.  --RoadDog

Quite the Story Behind the Gemini Giant-- Part 3: In Case You're Wondering Why They Are Sometimes Called 'Muffler Men'

Businesses along Route 66 and other roads needed a way to stand out among the competition so many bought large fiberglass statues for advertising.  The statues, including lumberjacks and cowboys, eventually became roadside attractions in their own right.

They later earned the nickname "Muffler Men" from the founders of the travel website Roadside America.com, who had seen some of the roadside giants holding car mufflers.

A former owner of the Wilmington, Illinois restaurant, The Dairy Delight, later renamed The Launching Pad during America's Race to Space, bought the Gemini Giant in 1965 where it remained, said Joel Baker, founder of American Giants, a company dedicated to finding the statues and sharing their stories.

--RoadDog

Quite the Story Behind the Gemini Giant-- Part 2

Ryan Jandura huddled with Gregory Peerbolte, CEO of the Joliet Area Historical Museum in Peebolte's office during the March 20, auction of the Gemini Giant.  Jandura had already raised $60,000 through a GoFundMe page and preparing to chip that money in if the cost of the statue went above the museum's budget from a state grant.

The museum found itself outbid when the price went over a quarter of a million dollars.  It got down to just about 20 seconds to submit a higher bid.  With just 4 seconds remaining, they were able to have their final bid of $275,000 accepted.

That's how close Route 66 came to losing the Gemini Giant.

I'm sure glad some private collector didn't get him.

Very Thankful He Remains in Wilmington.  --RoadDog

Quite the Story Behind Saving the Gemini Giant in Wilmington, Illinois

From March 30, 2024 AOL, Chicago Tribune  "Wilmington unites to save 'iconic' piece of Route 66 history-- the 30-foot Gemini Giant statue.  'It was pretty crazy'  by Rebecca Johnson.

And we all owe a huge thank you to Ryan Jandura of Wilmington, Illinois, and the Joliet Area Historical Museum for saving it.

They were locked into a high-stakes, high-value online auction.

"The item up for grabs-- which eventually sold for $275,000-- wasn't jewelry or a painting.  It was a 30-foot statue of an astronaut  wearing a helmet and carrying a rocket, a fixture of Route 66  tourism-- that until recently stood in Wilmington since the 1960s.

"For Jandura and others, the Gemini Giant has personal and historic significance, and they didn't want a private collector taking it out of the far southwest suburb."

--RiadThankful

Route 66's Iconic Stops

From the March 24, 2024, "On the Road:  Iconic stops on USA's Route 66" by Prannay Pathak.

I always enjoy these lists.

**  Bob's Gasoline Alley in Cuba, Missouri.  All the gas station stuff you'd ever want to see.    I haven't personally seen it, but went looking for it once.

**  Gemini Giant in Wilmington, Illinois.  We know about the situation there.

**  Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in Oro Grande, California.

**  Oatman, Arizona  Home of the Burros With Attitude.

**  The Blue Whale in Catoosa, Oklahoma

**  Pops in Arcadia, Oklahoma  Can't miss it with that giant neon pop bottle outside.

--RoadDog

Update on the Wilmington Gemini Giant-- Part 2

Earlier this month, Holly Barker, owner of the Giant and the restaurant, said she was only auctioning off the Giant and its trademark rights.

The auction started Wednesday with an opening bid of $100,000.

The Joliet Area Historical Museum placed the winning bid at $275,000.  The purchase was made possible through a grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

Guided by the American Giants Museum in Atlanta, the Giant was carefully taken down, protected and transported offsite for temporary storage.

Earlier this year, the Wilmington City Council approved plans to reimagine the entrance to South Island Park, which sits directly along Route 66, adjacent to the city's historic downtown and along the Kankakee River National Water Trail.

So Glad to Get the Giant Out of There.  --RoadGiant

Update on the Gemini Giant in Wilmington, Illinois

And, good news.

From the March 25, 2024, Daily Journal  "Gemini Giant sells for $275 k, will remain in Wilmington."

I was sure hoping it would remain in Wilmington.  Nothing like entering the town from the north and seeing that giant guy.  To me, it has always meant, "You're on Route 66!!" And, so it will be, but in a different site.

It has stood watch since 1965 at the former Launching Pad restaurant.  Sadly, that place has proved a no-go and out of business.

The Giant was purchased last week for $275,000 at auction and DONATED to the City of Wilmington.  The city plans on placing it alongside a planned  Route 66  monument at South Island Park by late spring of this year.

I was sure hoping Wilmington would get it.  It belongs in Wilmington.  

--RoadGiantFan

Things to See in the Northwestern Illinois Area

I was given a copy of the Northwest Quarterly magazine because of an article on Civil War Round Tables, but upon reading that article, I looked at the rest of it and there are many things in it of interest to those of us who like to go places, especially places in history.  It's just something about Road Tripping Through History with me.

The magazine focuses on things located in the northern part of Illinois with side trips to Wisconsin.

The most recent one had a page with information about three interesting things to see.

**  Garrison School Lofts in Rockford, Illinois.  How'd you like to live in an old school that opened in 1887.

**  DeKalb County's Civil War Memorial (Illinois) in front of the court house.  A statue to Union soldiers, dedicated in 1897.

**  The Riviera in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, right on the shore of Geneva Lake.  Unique architecture dedicated in 1833.

--RoadDog

What Is On a Proper Chicago Dog? (Hint: Ketchup Is Not One of Them)

In the last post I wrote about one of my favorite foods, he corned beef & cabbage.  Here is another one.

One of my all-time favorite things to eat (but without sports peppers).  Give me a good ol' Chicago Dog.  Our local Home Depot is mighty mean as they have a hotdog stand at the exit which has gotten me quite often.

Hey, just that wonderful smell.  You know.

Then that first bite.

Your "proper" ingredients:

Kosher pickle spear

Celery salt

Yellow mustard

Sport peppers (well, not for me)

Neon relish

Diced onions

Fresh Tomatoes

Now, I have never quite understood my wife Liz's hot dog choice:  a plain hot dog, maybe with a squirt of ketchup.  And she is a Chicago native, born and grew up there.)

Oh Well.  --RoadHotDog

Finally Got My CB&C

The first two attempts I made to get cb&c (corned beef & cabbage) dinners this past Saturday ended in failure.  No cb&c for me.  Sadly, this is the only time of the year you can get it.  I sure wouldn't mind if I could find a place to get it year round.

Plus, I have a particular way I want my cb&c.  Each fork full needs to have equal parts corned beef and cabbage.  Plus I like a bit of medium horseradish on it.  And, of course, the whole thing needs to be liberally peppered.

I also like to have the mini potatoes, cooked onions and carrots and a piece of rye bread heavily buttered.

But, the third attempt proved to be the charm as I got a heaping plate full of cb&c at Saylor Mick's in Spring Grove and yesterday, the actual St. Patrick's Day, I got another plate of my beloved at the St. Baldrick's celebration at the Fox Lake American Legion.

So, Two for Four's Not So Bad.  --RoadCorned

When Irish Eyes Weren't Smiling So Much

The Day before St. Patrick's Day and I still haven't had any corned beef & cabbage (cb&c).  Not that I haven't tried.  I am now 0 for 2 in attempts.

First I went to the Lake Villa (Illinois) St. Patrick's Day celebration.  Sadly, by the time I got to the VFW, they had sold out of cb&c.

Then, I drove to Johnsburg with intentions to get cb&c at Sunnyside.  Yesterday, I had stopped in and seen them advertising what I was looking for.  Unfortunately, I hadn't noticed in the fine print that it was being offered at Cullom Knoll over in McCullom Lake near McHenry and not at Sunnyside.

The woman who owns Sunnyside also operates Cullom Knoll.

So, so far no corned beef and cabbage for me.  But, in a few minutes I'll be heading over to Saylor Mick's in Spring Grove and I understand they have cb&c.

Here's Hoping.  --RoadLessCornedBeef

Getting My Irish on Tomorrow

Well, I have three options for tomorrow.  A lot depends on the weather which sounds a bit iffy.  Ans, of course, there are the crowds.  Tomorrow seems to be the bigger of the two weekend days even though St, Patrick's is actually on Sunday.

The biggest one tomorrow would be the McHenry (Illinois) ShamROCK the Fox which includes the dying green of the Fox River, a parade and bands.  That is usually a bit too crowded for me.  This involves five bands throughout the day in huge tents. 

If I decide against McHenry, I will go to Lake Villa (Illinois) for their annual parade and then to the VFW for the corned beef & cabbage dinner and a band afterwards.  

If that doesn't work out, the Fox Lake/Grant Township Historical Society is having a group come in at the museum and give an old-time radio broadcast.  Then, it would be a trio to Donovan's Reef in Twin Lakes (Wisconsin) for free corned beef & cabbage.  Layer, Saylor Mick's in Spring Grove for green beer and entertainment.

SUNDAY, ST. PATRICK'S DAY, McHenry continues bands in the tents and fireworks at night.  The Fox Lake American Legion has St. Baldrick's Day where folks have their hair cut off for a good cause.  (I'm not, I'll donate.)  Then a corned beef and cabbage dinner and entertainment.

Here's Hoping My Tongue Doesn't Get Too Green.  --Road O'Dog

Time to Get Those 1920 License Plates On Your Car

From the March 25, 2020, MidWeek (DeKalb County, Illinois)  "Looking Back."

1920, 100 Years Ago.

"Some of the automobile owners in DeKalb County  are going to get in 'Dutch' with the sheriff if they don't pay attention to the license  law.  There are some people who are still using the last year's license number on their cars.

"They should have had them changed the first of the year but police have made allowances for the delays that sometimes occur.  Now, however, they are going to arrest any person with a 1919  license plate and the fine  is $25 to $200."

And, you can still get fined for having out of date stickers on those tags.

Reckon You'd Better Update That Thing.  --RoadFineOtherWise

What to Do on a Tuesday

Yesterday was a good one for me.

I drove to Woodstock, Illinois, and saw a movie then went to the Woodstock Library and looked at some books on Woodstock history.  

Then, I met a group of members of the McHenry County Civil War Round Table at 3 Brothers for dinner before moving back to the library where we had the first meeting of the year.  We do not meet December to February.

We had a presentation on Confederate Railroads.

--RoadCivil

So, What's to Do Around Here-- Part 2: Wendy's Breakfasts, Fish Fry

MARCH 7, THURSDAY

Drove to McHenry and had the Baconator breakfast sandwich at Wendy's and if you like bacon, this sam's for you.  Went to Meijer and bought their last brick of Maxell cassette tapes.  This is the only place I know of around here that still sells them.  I still record on them.  Then went to Hobby Lobby and bought flowers for Liz's grave as well as her parents.  Time to take the Christmas ones down.

MARCH 8, FRIDAY

Met Kevin and Kelly at 'Cuda's on Grasslake Road for the fish fry.  Then to the Fox Lake Legion for 50-50.  All sorts of fun next Sunday at the Legion.  St. Baldrick's, corned beef & cabbage dinner and entertainment.

MARCH 9, SATURDAY

Drove to Fox Lake and had the 2 for $3 breakfast biscuit special and senior drink.  Bought too much stuff at Dollar Tree (well, Dollar Twenty-Five Tree now).  I need to stay out of that place.  Stopped at Thornton's for my iced drink and a guy backed into my car when I was leaving.  I checked for damage but couldn't see any so we went on our way.

Went to Sunnyside for the afternoon

MARCH 10, SUNDAY

Daylight Savings arrived, so that kept me busy for a bit.  Always like its arrival.  We're almost over winter.  Bob Stroud featured songs with the word "Light" in their titles on his Rock and Roll Roots show on Chicago's WDRV, the Drive.

Went to Saylor Mick's and enjoyed $3 pint Bloody Marys and a huge $7 cheeseburger and fries.

Summer's Almost Here.  --RoadSaving Time

So, What's to Do Around Here: Bar Hopping, Cheap Beer and Food

Okay, so it's still winter for a few days (starts the 19th) and it has been a fairly warm one so far.  So, what is there to do around here (northeast Illinois) until summer gets here.?

MARCH 3, SUNDAY

Went to Sunnyside Tavern in Johnsburg, then to Saylor Mick's in Spring Grove where I had a great $3 Bloody Mary and $7 Italian beef sandwich and fries.

MARCH 4, MONDAY

Sunnyside for $1.50 pints, the Monday special.

MARCH 5, TUESDAY

Back to Saylor Mick's for $1.50 tacos and live trivia.

MARCH 6, WEDNESDAY

Drove to Wisconsin and went to Best Bargains which sure lives up to its name when it comes to groceries.  Filled up with gas at the BP in Twin Lakes for $3.35 (it had been down to $2.50 a month ago).  Still better than Illinois where it is around $3.90.

Played live trivia with Uncle Jeffie at Donovan's Reef.

--RoadDog

Just Looking for Some CB&C

Well, it's coming up on St. Patrick's Day again.  That means I am looking for some of that good old corned beef & cabbage CB&C).  I love that stuff.  I wish it would be available in places throughout the year, not just now.  I don't care about health questions, I just love it like good ol' Eastern Carolina BBQ (well, any sort of bbq).

And, as we start the final countdown to St. Patrick's Day (on a Sunday this year 9 days from now), I have two places pegged for some CB&C.  Next Saturday at the VFW in Lake Villa, Illinois, after the annual parade, next Sunday at the American Legion in Fox Lake and the following Thursday at the Fox Lake senior luncheon.

Looking for some places this weekend and maybe even some St. Patrick's parties.

--Road-O'Dog

Kishwaukee River Flooding Back in 1949

From February 20, 2024, "Looking Back ."

1949, 75 years ago.

A combination of ice and high water choked up the Kishwaukee River through DeKalb and offered city crews  something different in problems Saturday.

"High water had reached the upper portions of the bridge at Annie's Woods, and the crews had dislodges floating ice there before moving up to the Lincoln Highway Bridge, where a large  flow offered another problem. Blasting powder was used to shake up the ice masses and the current started moving it down."

--RoadDog

Here's Hoping Wilmington Does the Right Thing

It always gives me great pleasure to enter Wilmington, Illinois, on Route 66 and there on the east side is that 30-foot tall guy holding the rocket in apace suit and helmet, you know, that Gemini Giant.  It means you are home on 66.  

And, for many years you could stop there and get a delicious bite to eat at the adjacent Launching Pad Restaurant.  Sadly, it closed quite a few years ago and despite efforts has not been able to reopen and stay open.  (But one problem eating there was that it was too close to that Polka Dot place in Braidwood.)

Anyway, I hope the city of Wilmington acquires the Gemini Giant and finds a place for it.  It is too much of an icon of Route 66.

Save the Giant.  --RoadDog

Some More on Wilmington's Gemini Giant

From the Feb. 28, 2024, My Plainview (Illinois)  "The fight to save Route66's Gemini Giant" by Dominic Genetti.

The Gemini Giant is one of the popular muffler men who are used for promotions and attractions throughout the country.  They are, to say the least, eye catching.  But the Gemini Giant stands out from them all.  This 30-foot guy is dressed completely differently than his brethren.

He is named after NASA's Gemini Space Program of the early 60s and is decked out in a space suit with boots and holding, instead of a muffler, a rocket.

Legends of America calls him Wilmington's most-photographed inhabitant.

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

From Wikipedia

Stands at 810 E. Baltimore St. in Wilmington, Illinois.

Built 1964.  Restored 2019.

Height:  30 feet

Weight:  438 pounds

Fiberglass

In the Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame.

--RoadGiant

Save the Gemini Giant

From the February 28, 2024, Edwardsville (Illinois) Intelligencer  "The fight to save Route 66's Gemini Giant" by Dominic Genetti.

And we all love those Route 66 roadside attractions and one of the top ones is that repurposed muffler man that stands outside the Launching Pad Restaurant in Wilmington, Illinois.  It is made up to look like an astronaut holding a rocket and has the name Gemini Giant.

Sadly, now its future is unknown.  The restaurant has been closed and opened many times in the last ten years, now it appears to be heading to oblivion.  Both are going up for auction March 20.  I would sure hate to see a private collector get it and remove it from view.

But a GoFundMe page has been started by Ryan Jandura.

As of Wednesday, the page has raised $3,000 of $100,000 requested.

Let's Hope It's Saved.--  RoadGiant

Fried Chicken Po' Boy at Merichka's

Okay, here's one that I don't think is right on Route 66, but close to it.  And, here the fried chicken comes in a po' boy.

MERICHKA'S 604 Theodore Street, Crest Hill, Illinois.

In Crest Hill, near Joliet and a very popular local site.  They have been in business since 1933 and are known for their po' boys which also are made with chicken.  They are family-owned-and-operated and take great pride in using Chicago USDA and quality hand-cut meats, from the famed chicken to the freshly hand ground hamburger.

Merichka's is incredibly authentic and has an interior of the quintessential supper club, boasting dark rich paneling, red-checkered tablecloths and a generously-sized bar where you can order a libation or two before your meal.

Menu items include great steak and chops, as well as an extensive seafood selection.  And, then there is the fan-favorite Garlic Butterine that can be added to just about every item on the menu, enhancing the flavor of nearly any classic dish.

A 6 ounce Poor boy steak costs $13.95 and 6 ounce poor boy chicken $12.55.

Stop in and try some exciting fried chicken at this icon of Old Route 66.  They also have a neat old sign.

--RoadChicken

More White Fence Farm-- Part 2

White Fence Farm was built by multimillionaire coal executive Stuyvesant Peabody  in the 1920s so he could entertain his Chicago friends in a country setting.  The building has now grown to 11 dining rooms and can seat over 1,200 hungry chicken eaters at a time.

Kids of all ages will be entertained by the White Fence Farm's on-site petting zoo, as well as the restaurant's Car and Antique Museum.

Be sure to commemorate your fried chicken road trip by snapping a picture with the larger-than-life chicken mascot near the main doors.

A half chicken with all the afore mentioned goodies:  kidney bean salad, cole slaw, cottage cheese, pickled beets and corn fritters will set you back $21.58.  Fritters and relishes will be replenished on request.

--Gettin' Hungry.  --RoadDog

Fried Chicken at White Fence Farm on Route 66 in Illinois-- Part 1

WHITE FENCE FARM

1376 Joliet Road, Romeoville

When you see the giant water tower with the letters "WWF" on it, you'll know you're at one of the earliest and most famous dining establishments along Route 66.  They are celebrating their 65th year in business and is an actual farm.

They have been serving up, as they brag, "The World's Greatest Chicken" to several generations of hungry travelers.  Fried chicken fans from all over the country are drawn by their twice cooked process, which involves baking and then frying the chicken to produce that distinctly thin yet crispy crust.

In keeping with the  authentic  farm theme, every meal comes with a selection of sides that have become as famous as the chicken:  cole slaw, cottage cheese, bean salad, pickled beets and mashed, baked or French-fried potatoes.

--RoadChicken

Fried Chicken at Dell Rhea's Chicken Basket in Willowbrook

DELL RHEA'S CHICKEN BASKET

645 Joliet Road (I-55 & Route 83)

Willowbrook, Illinois

Fried chicken lovers have been going to this venerable spot since it first opened its doors to Route 66 travelers in the early 1940sThis restaurant is a part of the Route 66 Hall of Fame and has been serving its chicken, cocktails and farmhouse recipes in a traditional supper club setting for more than 60 years.

Originally it was founded as part of a gas station.

Today's fried chicken is made the same way as it was in the heyday of Route 66.  And, they have other home-style classics like corn fritters, baby back ribs, homemade mashed potatoes and an all-you-can-eat salad bar.

It is a throw-back restaurant and located just 25 minutes from downtown Chicago.

You can find out why they boast:  "Get Your Chicks on Route 66."

They also have a daily lunch buffet for $17.99 (which, of course, includes that chicken stiff).

Salivating All the Way.  --RoadHungry

Eatin' Famous Fried Chicken on 66 in Illinois

From the Feb. 15, 2024, Northwest Herald "Famous Fried Chicken temps along Route 66" by Ryan Searl.

"Want a taste of real Americana on your Route 66 road trip?  This trio of fan-favorite dried chicken restaurants are must-stop destinations for foodies looking for a hot home-style meal.  

"As you travel along the Mother Road, you'll encounter some of the Midwest's most iconic eateries specializing in fried chicken, some of which have been serving up delicious golden-battered goodness for more that a half century.

"Be sure to start your journey hungry, you'll want to sample the food at each one of these time-tested locations."

Actually, it would be quite difficult to eat at each one as these three are all located near each other.  Liz and I ate at the first two places.

Wonder what their names are?  I'll be writing about them this week.

Greasy Fingers.  --Roadcheep

Garrett Morgan-- Part 2: Invented the Three Position Stoplight

From Wikipedia.

In 1923, after witnessing a horrible traffic accident at an intersection, he invented the traffic light that included a new signal that worked as a warning light besides just the traditional options of "go" or "stop."  We call it the yellow light today.

He acquired three patents for this invention in the United States, Great Britain and Canada.  

He eventually sold the rights to General Electric. for $40,000.

Thanks Mr. Morgan.  --RoadDog

Black History: Have You Ever Heard of Garrett Morgan?-- Part 1

I have been doing a lot of blog entries this month on Blacks in U.S. history in honor of Black History Month.  (From 2021)  For too long, their contributions have been overlooked and I am glad that is being addressed now.

From the Bowling Green (Kentucky) Daily News "Black History Month:  Garrett Morgan" by Ron Whitlock Sr.

Did you run a traffic light today or get mad because a bunch of them conspired against you to keep you waiting and waiting.  Well, you can than a Kentuckian for that privilege.  Just kidding because I'd be very afraid to drive if we didn't have those.

Kentuckian Garrett Morgan, a black man, received the patent for the stop light.  And that is very important to us old time roaders.

He was born in Harrison County in 1877 and Garrett Augustus Morgan Sr. was  a black inventor.  His father, Sydney Morgan,  was the son and freed slave of Confederate  Col. John H. Morgan, known for the famed Morgan's Raid, the only Confederate attack on Ohio.

At age 14, he moved to Cincinnati looking for work.  There he got a job as a handyman and hired a tutor to continue his education.

--RoadDog

Illinois Grants $3.3 Million for Route 66!!

Always good news to hear something like this.  Route 66 in Illinois can always use anything that furthers its name with the people of Illinois.  It is to attract visitors to 66 and boost local tourism.

And, I am not a big Gov. Pritzker fan, but I can sure agree with him here.  As he said: "These investments will enhance the visitor experiences and build on existing attractions to ensure Illinois and Route 66 remain vibrant elements of American culture and tradition for many years to come."

Good News.  --Road66

Back Again After Being Back Again Earlier

Back in December, I was so happy to be posting again.  A buddy with technology knowledge came over and got me back on line after being off since May.  I was a happy lad, but then it went down again and I decided I needed a new pc for upstairs.

I somehow got the new one hooked up and working (and believe me I am still amazed).  I now am trying to remember how to get back on my blogs and two e-mails sites.  Those passwords and verification codes are driving me to go to a bar tonight.  

But, I finally have gotten to this four blog site and have posted to day to all eight blogs.  However, today's posts was the last time for one of them.  Now, I only have one e-mail site to get back and I'll be somewhat set for the most part.

Just Loving All This Technology Stuff.  --RoadDog