MILESTONES, UPDATES, AND NEWS FROM THE ROAD
First on the agenda this afternoon is a milestone of note. Our 1,000th post is now less than ten entries away.
When this project began the primary catalyst was educational as I was at a cross roads. I could either become at least partially literate in regards to new technologies or I could just pull the plug and find some place where it was still possible to homestead, pan for gold, grow your own food, and keep the cabin warm with wood.
I like keeping things simple. I am also entranced with technologies of the past. Still, years ago I tried setting the way back machine to 1890 and found it to be a fascinating way of life. In fact, it was a good life, especially if I did not planning on living long and but now I am looking sixty right square in the eye.
My voyage into the modern technological era began with email, moved to digital photography, then the blog, and eventually, a website. Last year I actually sent a text message.
Now my goals are quite simple. Find a balance between the world of 1890 and the frustrating, cold, impersonal age of electronic technology. Somehow there must be a way to blend the two together.
Now, a couple of quick updates. John and Judy Springs, 66 The Mother Road, are cooking up a Route 66 contest that will be the contest others aspire to in future years. Details will be published soon.
The February issue of Smithsonian Magazine has a great feature article on Route 66. You can find more information, a link, and preview at Route 66 News. This is also a great source for current information, events, and the economic impact of Route 66.
Details are being finalized but it looks as though I will be signing books as a fund raiser for the Arizona Route 66 Association at the Powerhouse Visitor Center in Kingman during the annual Route 66 Fun Run scheduled for the first weekend in May. In addition, the push is on to have at least a portion of the Route 66 in Mohave County exhibit on the second floor mezzanine complete. My dearest friend and I were quite honored to be selected as the photographers for this state centennial project.
Next on my calendar will be the annual KABAM festival, also in Kingman, on the third weekend of the month of May. This celebration of books and literacy, another event I am quite proud to be associated with, features lectures at the library and at local schools, as well as a day in the park with authors, poets, and musicians.
I spoke with Sam, the owner of the historic El Trovatore Motel in Kingman, this past weekend, and am pleased to report he is holding fast to his plans for the renovation of this Route 66 landmark.
The neon sign in front is back on even though one letter needs repair. The neon trim on the office and first block of renovated rooms is again lighting the night. Now he is planning murals for the east walls and the relighting of the tower on the bluff at the back of the property.
We have added an option for the purchase of a print of the month in the right column along with options for ordering a signed copy of Ghost Towns of Route 66 and other travel guides written, Backroads of Arizona, Route 66 Backroads, and Ghost Towns of the Southwest. Next will be an option for selecting and ordering prints in various sizes that we hope to have operational in a week or so. I should also note that we are offering a discount for orders of ten or more, or for those looking to add our prints to the walls of their restaurant, motel, or office. Contact us for details.
Last, but not least, I am pleased (and just a bit concerned) to announce my schedule for 2012 is filling fast. The tab at the page contains details. If you would like to schedule an appearance for your fund raiser or event, please let me know soon.