ON THE HORIZON
As I look toward the distant horizon that is 2013, I see some very exciting things along Route 66. Some are in the planning stages, a few are manifestations of a very long and frustrating process to move an idea from dream to reality, and others are the harvest of seeds planted years ago by visionaries such as Jim Ross, Jerry McClanahan, Bob Waldmire, Angel Delgadillo, and countless others who saw something special in Route 66.
In Tulsa you have the pending completion of the stunning sculpture that will Cyrus Avery Centennial Plaza a destination of choice. Surely this will become a “must see” attraction for Route 66 enthusiasts in 2013.
Then, scheduled for the first week in August, there is the International Route 66 Festival in Joplin. And of course this will give the world an opportunity to see (and/or) experience the transformation of the classic Boots Motel in nearby Carthage.
I have a hunch that Cuba Fest in Cuba, Missouri will be another destination for fans of the double six next year. This years event was truly delightful and as the turn out included visitors from New Mexico, Washington, Massachusetts, Arizona, Texas, and Tennessee, I am quite confident word will spread about this event that encapsulates the very essence of the Route 66 experience.
The folks in Tucucmcari just don’t give up and as a result they continue t be a source of inspiration. Even though the Wheels on 66 event sort of fizzled last year they are trying it again in 2013.
However, this time they are combining it with the culmination of the annual Route 66 Motor Tour and are planning to use it as the venue for the grand opening of the New Mexico Route 66 Museum. Hats off to Vickie Ashcraft and everyone else involved with making this a reality.
If you have plans on attending it might be a good idea to start making your plans now. There are several excellent lodging options here but only one Motel Safari and one Blue Swallow Motel.
Dennis at the Midpoint Cafe in Adrian continues his endeavors to transform the mid point on Route 66 sign that is a must stop for thousands of travelers into a wonderful mini park. I am sure this too will be a welcome addition to the highways vibrant culture of sights and attractions in 2013.
I am hoping Ed Klein’s efforts to spark a revitalization effort in Needles through his recent efforts to restore the 66 Motel sign will begin bearing fruit soon. There is a stirring in the community but as of yet I don’t see much to announce.
On the other side of the river the Topock Marina project is moving forward. This will be a welcome addition to that segment of the road.
Meanwhile in my adopted home town, Kingman, developments are beginning to gain some momentum. The historic Brunswick Hotel is on the fast track toward becoming the crown jewel of the historic district. If you have ever given thought to having a business on Route 66 here is a golden opportunity.
It is not yet set in stone but as added incentive for anyone considering opening a shop or managing the Brunswick Hotel, I may be able to offer a bit of a draw to ensure visitors. Details on this will be posted next week.
Even though the proposed photo exhibit entitled Route 66 in Mohave County being developed for the Powerhouse Visitor Center mezzanine has yet to manifest, the project is not dead in spite of countless delays. Still, it should be in place for visitors by the time of the annual Route 66 Fun Run.
I know more than a few reasons to be excited about what looms on the horizon for Route 66 were not listed in this post. Would you care to share what your community is working on or what your Route 66 plans are for 2013?