I was reading the back of a cereal box the other day – it was about Route 66. The box stated “although thee road has vanished from the maps, it continues to thrive in the hearts of people worldwide.” Route 66 has not “vanished,” Route 66 is not “gone.” It has not been entirely replaced by the “4 lanes.” Route 66 is a viable road. It has a few detours but after 83 years who hasn’t had a little alteration here or there?
Recently the Association was contacted by a group wanting to form “The Route 66 Alliance” working as one voice for the state Route 66 Associations. After a lively discussion at our January board meeting, the Board of Directors has decided at this time to ask for more information about how this group will be put together, how it will be funded and what the bylaws are as well as how the Alliance will function. We will keep you informed as details become available.
It’s not too early to be planning your May 1st and 2nd Red Carpet Corridor weekend. Bring your friends and family out on Route 66 from Joliet to Towanda for a great time! This year each community will have available a piece of a puzzle – and once you’ve collected all 12 pieces, you’ll have a totally unique memento of the 2010 event. If you just happen to have a jumpsuit in the back of your closet and crave fried peaunt butter and banana sandwiches, then you HAVE to stop in to Wilmington’s All Elvis – All Day Celebration! On the road will be motorcycle shows, car shows, flea markets, craft shows, 90 miles of fun are planned for this year. Be there or be square! Come get your photo taken at the giant shield in Pontiac!
This year’s Motor Tour will be absolutely unique. So many people have experienced Motor Tour burnout – co-chairs Jerry Law and Jaime Anderson have worked tirelessly to put together an amazing tour to highlight our southern counties. We’ll start in Missouri and leisurely wind our way back into Illinois. The Halll of Fame Dinner will be at the Carlinvile Best Western and we look forward to a great evening. The tour will end in Mc Lean at the Dixie. State licinse plates will be available this year.
If your’ve never turned out for a Preservation Workday – your chance is coming! The satisfaction of working on a project that will be shared with thousands of travelers is so enjoyable – not to mention you get fed (“We Work for Food!”). Watch the website for more info as details become available.
Spring is almost here. I like my snow in February and March – not May or June so I’m content to deal with Winter for now. I know we’re all restless and looking forward to getting out on the road – maple sirup time is coming, the Spam sandwiches are beckoning from the Palms Grilll and yur can’t beat Pork Chop Night at the Crossroads. All good things in time.
See you on the road!
Cathie