Red Fork Hippie Chick here with a news bulletin and a request for help: I just became aware this morning of a situation that requires some assistance. The Vega Motel on Route 66 in Texas was forced to shut down for a while because one of the owners was seriously ill. He has recovered, thank … Continue reading Vega Motel needs help
“Cars” news roundup for June 9
"Cars" opens today. Have you purchased your tickets? The Reporter in Vacaville, Calif., has an excellent story about Pixar's research on the film, including a lot of details about Route 66's role. The Springfield Journal-Register interviewed author and Mother Road ambassador Michael Wallis about his role in the film and Route 66. Animated News has … Continue reading “Cars” news roundup for June 9
Ditty Bops will cycle part of Route 66
Abby DeWald and Amanda Barrett of the folk-rock band The Ditty Bops are embarking on a tour by bicycle to support their new album, "Moon over the Freeway," on Warner Bros. Records, according to the OutdoorNewswire. Part of their route will go on the Route 66 Bicycle Trail. The tour includes stops in the Route … Continue reading Ditty Bops will cycle part of Route 66
Norwegian classic-car tour rolls into southwest Missouri
The Norwegian group that's driving antique cars the length of Route 66 made its way into Strafford, Mo., on its way to nearby Springfield, according to the Springfield News-Leader. Here's something that cracked me up: "What surprised the group so far is the attention we get from the public when driving. People are yelling and … Continue reading Norwegian classic-car tour rolls into southwest Missouri
A Route 66 guide to the “Cars” movie
Updated June 17, 2018 If you just saw the "Cars" movie and want to find more information about Route 66, welcome. First, the Radiator Springs shown in "Cars" is a fictional town. Historic Route 66 exists. On the real Route 66, there is a Baxter Springs in Kansas and a Peach Springs in Arizona. But … Continue reading A Route 66 guide to the “Cars” movie
Keep your fingers crossed
The Carthage Press in Carthage, Mo., reports: A possible vote next week by the District 7 Transportation Enhancement Program committee may lead to the creation of a Route 66 museum in the Courthouse. The enhancement funds go toward non-transportation projections such as trails, streetscaping and museums that have a connection with Route 66. Presiding Commissioner … Continue reading Keep your fingers crossed
“Cars” news roundup for June 8
The Indianapolis Star talked to "Cars" actors Richard Petty and Bonnie Hunt. Here's another Richard Petty interview, this time by the Chicago Tribune. John Ratzenberger, who plays Mack the semi-truck in the film, is interviewed. And on Thursday evening, Rotten Tomatoes gave "Cars" its desirable Certified Fresh rating. The explanation: "Rotten Tomatoes awards the Certified … Continue reading “Cars” news roundup for June 8
Exotic Animal Paradise to close
Exotic Animal Paradise, a drive-through animal park that's operated on old Route 66 for nearly 35 years near Strafford, Mo., announced Thursday it is set to close Oct. 1, according to the Springfield News-Leader. The animal park was sold to a real-estate developer, the newspaper said. It will make way for a golf course and … Continue reading Exotic Animal Paradise to close
Idol worship at the Edwardsville festival
The 10th annual Festival 66 in Edwardsville, Ill., is taking a page from the wildly popular TV show "American Idol" and holding a singing contest, reports the Belleville News-Democrat. The big event, however, will be the car cruise at 7 p.m. Saturday. More than 200 classic vehicles participate each year. I was stopped in the … Continue reading Idol worship at the Edwardsville festival
Legends of America site marks third anniversary
The EMediaWire reports that the Legends of America site is marking its third year of existence this year. Legends owner Kathy Weiser of Lenexa, Kansas, became consumed by her creation, quitting her full time job two years ago to focus full time on the website. Full of facts and fancy about destinations in the American … Continue reading Legends of America site marks third anniversary