Indian crafts — fake or genuine?

Here's a good idea: The New Mexico Legislature is considering a certification stamp for arts and crafts made by American Indians in New Mexico, according to an AP story. A similar setup exists in Alaska. The stamp, it is hoped, would create a stronger market for the real stuff and devalue the fakes coming from … Continue reading Indian crafts — fake or genuine?

Route 66 featured in Trains magazine

Elrond Lawrence was kind enough to let the Route 66 yahoogroup know that the March issue of Trains magazine is featuring Route 66 as its cover story. He says the article features early Route 66 crusader Angel Delgadillo; the town of Seligman, Ariz.; the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Ariz.; the Jackrabbit Trading Post; Cajon Pass … Continue reading Route 66 featured in Trains magazine

Have a Route 66 business? Read this

The National Park Service's Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program is accepting applications for cost-share grants. The deadline to submit is April 28, and grants will be awarded on or before July 7. This program can be used to help fix up your historic Route 66 business. Here's an overview of the program. Applications and guidelines … Continue reading Have a Route 66 business? Read this

Route 66 Motors is no longer for sale

NOTE: See important update at the bottom. Wayne Bales, owner of Route 66 Motors east of Rolla, Mo., since 1979, is entertaining offers to lease or buy his business, which is a combination of a classic used-car lot and a Route 66 souvenir store. Decorated with many vintage petroleum signs, it's a favorite stop for … Continue reading Route 66 Motors is no longer for sale

Route 66ers weigh in on revitalization project

Some time ago, we reported on a Route 66 revitalization program in Arizona concerning abandoned properties that once contained underground fuel tanks. There was some concerns by Route 66 aficionados that the bureaucrats would run roughshod. My concerns have been allayed somewhat by this report by the Holbrook Tribune-News. The public hearings had a lot … Continue reading Route 66ers weigh in on revitalization project

Nighttime neon in Albuquerque

Dr. Howdy and his Thought & Humor blog have posted some swell neon sign photos from Albuquerque's Route 66. Check them out.

St. James Winery recognized

The St. James Winery just off old Route 66 in St. James, Mo., was named one of the Hottest Small Brands of 2005 by Wine Business Monthly magazine, according to Kansas City InfoZine. St. James Winery was recognized as a small brand nationally, but continues to be the largest producer of wine in Missouri by … Continue reading St. James Winery recognized

Brighter lights in Flagstaff may earn you a ticket

The Arizona Daily Sun reports that the City of Flagstaff will more aggressively write citations to businesses and homeowners who add brighter lighting, including those along Route 66. I was wondering why the city is doing this. It's because Flagstaff, with its high elevation and its clear Southwestern skies, is a good place for observatories, … Continue reading Brighter lights in Flagstaff may earn you a ticket

Kristy’s closes its doors

Kristy's Coffee Shop, which occupied a former Denny's on Route 66 in Gallup for 40 years, has closed. The Gallup Independent reports that the restaurant's longtime owner, Barbara Stanley, decided to retire in December. The story contains some great anecdotes, including this gem: Stanley said officials for Denny's weren't exactly unhappy to see the restaurant … Continue reading Kristy’s closes its doors

More on AZ gas stations

EPA put out a press release yesterday on the Route 66 Initiative to deal with abandoned gas stations along the Mother Road in Navajo County, AZ. The initiative has been covered here previously. Here's the upshot: EPA and the Arizona DEQ had a couple of public meetings yesterday and today -- one at the incomparable … Continue reading More on AZ gas stations