ROUTE 66 CHRONICLES

MORE FROM THE STARVING ARTIST FILE

2009-07-14T15:02:00.002-07:00

At some point, at least in my way of thinking, the scales will tip in my favor. With enough promotion of my work, enough freebies for good causes, and enough effort to promote name recognition I should receive more assignments.
Well, the plan seems to be working, at least in regards to having plenty of work. I am rapidly coming to the conclusion that writing for a living is a sure death but a much slower one than starvation.
I now have the material needed to write the Checker obituary for Cars & Parts magazine, a paying assignment. The monthly feature for the Kingman Daily Miner will be finished this evening. This non paying assignment is for their on line edition and as part of the agreement the by line will feature a plug for this blog as well as books written.
The website for the Route 66 Association of Kingman is nearing launch date. I have written a great deal of text and supplied a number of photos for the site and am quite excited to see what fruit will come from the work. This is another non paying assignment but it is for a very good cause and I honestly feel that it is for reasons such as this that God blessed me with certain skills and talents.
With Jim Conkle at helm the Route 66 Pulse has roared back to life. I will be supplying material, including coverage of this Saturday evenings Chillin' on Beale Street, that pertains to the Kingman area with my first deadline being August 1. See above.
For True West magazine I pen a very small ghost town sidebar. This was to be a feature but editorial constraints imposed as a result of the current economic situation negated that.
So, I write it as a way to promote work published, the forthcoming book on ghost towns, and to help a fellow Kingmanite, Bob Bell.
Besides, I am an optimistic and curious fellow by nature. I am optimistic this will turn into a paying column and I am curious as to what doors this will open. Perhaps I just don't have enough sense to know that being happy about this wild adventure is an incorrect response.
That is the background. Here is how the whole sordid mess played out this past weekend and what awaits in the near future.
After a morning at the office and the interview with the Kingman Daily Miner on Saturday, I worked on writing captions for Ghost Towns of the Southwest until seven. Then I watched a strange movie (Bring Out Your Dead) with my dearest friend.
Sunday morning I read my Bible, prayed for friends, answered email correspondence, dug Barney the wonder truck out of moth balls and hauled some bedroom furniture, worked on the captions, posted on the blog, and read a few more chapters from a new book about the collapse of the banking industry in Detroit during the 1930s and the rise of the New Deal. In between I had two wonderful meals with my dearest friend and basked in the cool air that swept through our home courtesy of the Jon G. Robinson memorial cooler.
Several years ago we were having a very bad run with crisis piling on crisis when the swamp cooler died. I am still mad about that as it was only 25 years old.
My friend, Jon, was having an even worse time of it as he struggled through a heaping pile of family tragedy. Still, in spite of it all, in an act of friendship that still overwhelms me he insisted on buying us a new cooler. Hence the Jon G. Robinson memorial cooler.
Monday, I wrote the rough draft for the Kingman Daily Miner feature, answered more correspondence, and worked on arrangements to attend the Adventure Expo in Chicago this coming January. Even birds and Canadians go south for the winter.
I suppose there are folks out there who question my sanity. After all I live in Arizona on purpose and gleefully await the first one hundred degree day every year.
Monday afternoon I took care of a few things at my mothers house and then met with Jim Conkle, the Route 66 Pulse, and Chris Durkin from the Route 66 Association of Kingman as well as the Kingman Downtown Merchants Association. We hashed out some pretty solid deals that will help our efforts in Kingman as well as the Route 66 Pulse.
I learned a long time ago that if you take life to seriously your time here on planet earth will be a long and bitter ride. The bottom line is have a sense of humor.
I am pleased to say that Mr. D'z was quite busy when we arrived for our meeting. As a result we were shuffled out to the far end which was the garage when this was the Kimo Cafe and Shell station.
Outside it was well over one hundred degrees. In that back room with just fans to pull the cool air from the restaurant the temperature wasn't much better than if we were sitting under a cottonwood tree along a sand wash.
About midway through our meeting a cook came in and began rolling out dough for pizzas. It was at that point I noticed two giant pizza ovens just behind our table.
You guessed it, he began baking pizzas! Well, it was a novel concept. A sauna in an historic Route 66 eatery that serves great root beer floats and very good coffee.
Life is truly a grand adventure. The challenge is to see opportunity in failure, hope in a hopeless situation, and a way to laugh rather than become bitter.
The greatest challenge is to learn to relax and enjoy the ride. After all, none of us are getting out of this alive.

GHOST TOWN TRAIL

2009-07-11T16:46:00.004-07:00

Ghost towns. If this weekend were to have a theme it would be ghost towns.

The final edit for Ghost Towns of the Southwest is finished. Now its on to the captions and the selection of the cover photo or photos. These are a few that I thought would work well. What is your opinion?

The ghost town theme continues with the writing of an obituary for Checker, the iconic taxi manufacturing company, that will be published in Cars & Parts magazine. The factory and its subsidiary complexes closed July 1 and a large percentage of the machinery as well as related components are on their way to the new owners in Canada.

If time allows I can continue the theme of abandonment by penning a story on the demise of the American auto industry as a special, multi part feature for the on line edition of the Kingman Daily Miner. This will be a difficult story to write as I feel like an old friend has died.

The ghost town theme continued with the marketing of the two new print series. This photo of a cabin in Chloride is the first in the ghost town series. It is 11 x 14 but is matted to 16 x 20.

These as well as the icons of Route 66 series will be limited to production runs of 100 each. As an introduction to the series the cost for a signed and numbered print will be $110. Ten percent of the sale price will be donated to the Route 66 Association of Kingman for the "Light the Night on Route 66" initiative to restore the glow of vintage neon to the historic district along the old double six.

To brighten the mood a bit I moved from the topic of ghost towns and granted an in depth interview to the Kingman Daily Miner this afternoon with the focus being my optimism for Kingman becoming a vacation destination. Of course a topic of this nature would have to include Route 66 as it is the catalyst for this transformation.

I also noted that efforts to develop Kingman as a destination will have a positive effect on making the community a better place to live. In short I noted my preference is Kingman as it was forty years ago but since that isn't going to happen we move on to plan "B" which is do everything possible to ensure it remains a very livable place.

Old trucks, old Kingman, ghost towns, and Route 66 are all a large part of my life. Still, I fully realize you can not live in the past. To be honest, I wouldn't want to.

This is the best of both worlds. We can enjoy the things of the past and the creature comforts of the modern era.

In regards to Kingman my thinking is you can't live in the past but you can use it as a foundation for building a great future. Part two of this philosophy, suitable for a number of life applications, is you can bemoan missed opportunity and miss new opportunities while whining or you can learn from the mistakes of the past to avoid making them again.
Monday, part two of my official day off will be a busy but enjoyable one. First, there are the writing projects and repair of mother's vacuum cleaner.
Then there is a meeting with Jim Conkle to finalize book signing arrangements in Flagstaff during the Will Rogers/Route 66 event in September. I will also be finalizing editorial requirements and deadlines for submissions to the Route 66 Pulse.
Next is another meeting, this one with Scott Dunton. The goal here is to relight a vintage neon clock over the old taxi stand and refurbishment and expansion of the Harley Davidson themed mural and exhibit downtown on Route 66. Iconic motorcycles and an iconic highway, a perfect combination.

Then there is a little planning work for the Chillin' on Beale Street scheduled for next Saturday evening. The July even will better than the first as we have worked out a few bugs and the August edition will be really something, especially if plans jell.

Last but definitely not least, will be an afternoon late lunch or early dinner date with my dearest friend. The Vestar people were so happy with the photos submitted for their website they are buying us dinner as a bonus.

It looks as though the ghost town trail will a lengthy one. Ghost Towns of the Southwest will need to be promoted soon, Ghost Towns of Route 66 is on the drawing board, and there is still a trip to Crown King on the old Senator Highway that needs to be taken.

ROUTE 66 HAPPENIN'S

2009-07-09T16:15:00.000-07:00

July 18, "Chillin' on Beale Street" Kingman, 5:30pm - 10:00pm
Classic Cars, DJ Don West, games, food, prizes, Brought to you by:
The Route 66 Cruizers Classic Car Club, AZ Car Nutz, The Downtown Merchants Association and The Kingman Route 66 Association
INFO:Tim McDonnell kingmanroute66association@gmail.com

July 19, AZ Car Nutz July Breakfast Brunch, Hualapai Mountain
Lodge, Meet & leave at 11am from Mission Bank on Hualapai Mt. Rd.
Cruise up to the Lodge. Eat at 11:30am Cost $12.00 per person
includes tax, beverage & tip.
INFO:Betsy sennasylum@npgcable.com

July, 25, 1:00pm-5:00pm, K.B.'S Automotive "Grand Opening"
Same Great Service & Location, New Building, Free Hot Dogs and soda, Raffle Prizes, Come Join Us for this Special Day!!!!
K.B.'S Automotive 4355 Bank St. Unit "G" Kingman
INFO:Ken 928-757-0003 kbbenton@yahoo.com

July 25, Findlay Auto Center and Route 66 Cruizers Car Club present the Classic & Hot Rod Car Show along with several special interest NEW cars on display, Entry is FREE. There will be raffles, 50/50, pizza & soda for purchase, Karaoke contest, DJ Don West,all proceeds go to the "Chat n Chow" Program at the Kingman Senior Center
INFO: Cliff Finlay Auto Center 928-757-4041

August 14-15 Williams Twisters 13th Annual Cool Country Cruise
417 E. Route 66, $40.00 entry includes t-shirt, poker run, trophies, music.
INFO:928-635-0266

August 22, "Chillin' on Beale Street" Kingman 5:30pm - 10:00pm
In cooperation of Route 66 Cruizers, AZ Car Nutz, Kingman Route
66 Association and the Downtown Merchants Association, bring music by DJ Don West, games, prizes, vendors, shop will remain open late.
INFO:Tim kingmanroute66association@gmail.com

August 29, Last Saturday of the Month Classic Car & Hot Rod Car Show, at Findlay Auto Center in cooperation with the Route 66 Cruizers Car Club, D.J. Don West, raffles, 50/50, pizza & soda for purchase, All proceeds go to a local charity.
INFO: Findlay Auto Center 928-757-4041

Aug. 31 AZ-NM Corvette Caravan, leaves Phoenix on Aug 31 to
travel to Bowling Green, KY, for the 15th Anniversary of the National Corvette Museum
INFO:Bob 623-975-7314 or 623-640-3567

Set. 12, 15th Annual Flagstaff Route 66 Days Charity Event &
International Route 66 Festival, open to all years, sold out last
year in June. $35 pre-reg before Aug 1 after $40.
INFO:John Fajardo 928-451-1204 or Bob Bortree 928-779-0898
www.route66carclub.com or www.flagstaffroute66days.com

Sept. 14-18 43rd Annual North American Ultra Van Rally, Santa Fe,
New Mexico at Santa Fe Skies RV Park
INFO:Jim & Roy Davis, Hosts, 270-435-4572 jld@wk.net

Sept. 18, (Friday) "Chillin on Beale Street" Downtown Block
Party, D.J. Don West, games, prizes, shops & resturants will
be open late. Brought to you by Route 66 Cruizers, AZ Car Nuts,
Kingman Route 66 Association & Kingman Downtown Merchants.
INFO:Tim McDonnel kingmanroute66association@gmail.com

Sept. 19 Cruizn for Jesus Car Show
Details to come

Sept. 19-20 Kingman Street Drags
INFO:www.streetdrags.com or www.route66wingsandwheels.com

Sept. 24-25-26-27 River Cruizers Rodding on the River, Riverside
Resort, Laughlin, NV. Special Hotel Rates Entry fee $40.00
INFO:928-505-5598 http://rivercruizers.com

Sept. 25-27, Super Run 2009 Car Show on Water Street, downtown Henderson
INFO:www.superrun.com

Sept. 26, Lake Havasu Swap Meet is back at London Bridge Plaza
8am-4pm $15 per space. Auto dealers NOT permitted to sell.
INFO:Al Delapena 928-854-2733 rivbiz@npgcable.com

Oct. 3 8th Annual Fall Car Show presented by the Outsidrs Car Club
& Full Moon Saloon (7000 Hwy 179) entry $20 before 9/1/09 and
$25 after 9/1, includes dash plaque & t-shirt, check-in 9am
Show 10am-3pm open to 1978 & older vehicles, live music, 50/50,
raffles, food
INFO:Michael 928-300-5809

OCT. 10, 15TH Annual Fly-In and Classic Car Show
Wickenburg Airport,
INFO:928-684-5479 events@wickenburgchamber.com

Oct 24, 11th Annual Vette Fest presented by Sun Country Corvette
Club (9155 W. Bell Rd.), entry $25.00 Corvette show-reg 8am, show 10am-2pm, food raffles, vendors, trophies, 50/50
INFO:Gary 623-582-5032

Oct. 24 3rd Annual Welding Expo & Car Show presented by Mohave College and Praxair, Neal Campus-Kingman 1971 Jagerson Ave. 9am-4pm Welding Seminars and Vendors will be available. For the first time this show will be on a Saturday.
INFO:866-664-2832 ext. 1164 www.mohave.edu/pages/976.asp

Oct 21-25 Relics & Rods 32nd Annual Run to the Sun, Vehicle years
1972 and older, all makes and models
INFO:Dick Stiller 928-855-0933 relicrod@pair.com

Oct 31 Route 66 Cruizers Annual Halloween Bash
Details to follow

Dec. 6. Cops Who Care Annual Car Show & Chili Cookoff
160 N. Valentine St. Wickenburg, Community Center
INFO:928-684-5451 X 514 tonya@ciwickenburg.az.us

Pauline Rowe
692-5122
paulinerowe1@frontiernet.net

JACKSON NOTES AND ROUTE 66 NEWS

2009-07-09T12:06:00.002-07:00

I have been gathering material for a feature article profiling Jackson, Michigan. Apparently, for a brief period between 1905 and 1915, Jackson gave Detroit a run for the title of Motor City as more than twenty automobile manufacturers were based here during this period.
A few of these, such as Buick, relocated but others merged and survived into the 1920s. Other companies abandoned automobile manufacturing to diversify into electronics or the manufacture of automotive related components.
An assignment from Cars & Parts magazine to write the obituary for the Checker company is on the "to do" list for this weekend. The iconic manufacturer of taxis and other vehicles closed its doors on July 1 after more than 85 years of operation.
This will be in addition to my regular Independent Thinker feature. For the next installment in this saga I decided to profile Roy D. Chapin, one of the founders of Hudson who served on the board of directors for the Guardian Group, a complicated investment vehicle that was the catalyst for the banking collapse of the early 1930s, and commerce secretary under President Hoover.
The pursuit of a writing career continues to take me along strange and unfamiliar paths. The latest turn is receipt of a request to be a feature speaker at the Adventure Expo convention in Chicago. Here is a link - www.adventureexpo.com
To say the least this is a very exciting prospect. However, it is again one of those opportunities that has amazing possibilities for advancement and exposure but extremely limited profit potential.
The largest drawback is it is January. For a good old boy that looks for his long johns when the temperatures drop below 80 degrees generating enthusiasm for a trip to Chicago in January is very difficult.
On the Route 66 front things are really looking up, especially in Kingman. Indications are that the second Chillin' on Beale Street, scheduled for the evening of July 18, will be bigger and better than the first.
However, plans being laid for the August event lead me to believe this thing is going to take off in a very big way. Then in September comes the big daddy of events on Beale Street - the street drags followed by a huge block party.
The project to "Light the Night on Route 66" launched by the Route 66 Association of Kingman took a giant step forward a few weeks ago with receipt of a $10,000 funds matching grant. Now they just need donations and then the old neon will again glow brightly along Route 66.
To that end the association is laying the groundwork for a huge winter festival in January. The center piece will be a monster raffle. Things are still in the planning stage but it looks as though donated prizes will run the gamut from automobiles to sandwich's, books, including signed copies, original art work, and all manner of Route 66 related items.
If you would like to make a monetary donation or donate an item for the raffle contact Tim McDonnell at 928-377-9684. All donations are tax deductible.

CHECKER - AN AMERICAN ICON BITES THE DUST

2009-07-03T12:46:00.004-07:00

This is the oldest existent Checker dating to 1922. This is the taxi that launched an empire and was the cornerstone for the building of an icon.

The Model M was truly a stylish automobile. The connection with E.L. Cord and Auburn were established at this time. These would lead to Cord assuming a leading role in the companies direction, Checker building the Auburn Saf-T-Cab, and Checker utilizing Lycoming engines.

This strange vehicle is the limousine version of the 1940 Model A Checker. It is the only existent model of this series. Many features on this vehicle were patented including the retractable rear roof quarter.

This is the unique "Jeep" prototype built by Checker. Perhaps the most intriguing feature on this model is the four wheel steering.

There is a Cord connection here as well. Herb Snow, an engineer with the original Cord project, was working for Checker during this period.

With little fanfare or notice legendary automobile manufacturer, Checker has become another casualty of the Great Depression Part II and added its name to the long ledger of deceased American automobile manufacturers. Actual production of the Checker cab drew to a close in 1982, after an eighty year production run, but the manufacture of sub assemblies under contract to General Motors continued until July 2, 2009.

The Checker story is one of the most fascinating and most enigmatic in the colorful history of the American automobile industry. The companies founder, Morris Markin, epitomizes the legend of the American rags to riches story. The automobiles, and trucks, produced by the company transcended mere transportation to become an American icon.

Markin arrived in the United States from Russia destitute. Within twenty years he was the owner of an automobile manufacturing company and was quickly laying the foundation for a vast and lucrative taxi empire.

The company is best known for its taxis but over the years the company also produced a wide array of niche market vehicles and delved deeply into technological innovation. Among the later were experimental front wheel drive cabs in 1946, a four wheel drive and four wheel steering Jeep in 1940, diesel engine experimentation in the 1950s, and production of the first diesel powered cabs in America during the 1960s.

Unique and specialty vehicles such as the six or eight door Aerobus were an important part of the companies manufacturing base. Others included the Medicab designed with extra wide rear doors, a ramp that slid out from the rocker panel, a raised roof, and locks in the rear floor for wheel chairs.

My favorite is the 1931 MU6 Suburban Utility, a vehicle promoted as a one ton, nine passenger station wagon that could also serve as a hearse or panel truck with the removal of the seats. As much I would love to own one there are no known existent models.

The Gilmore Museum, and long time employee Jim Garrison, are diligently engaged in working to preserve this unique chapter in our automotive history. As I have update they will be posted.

(insert the sound of taps here)

*photos courtesy of Jerry Campbell

SUMMER NIGHTS ON ROUTE 66

2009-07-03T06:17:00.003-07:00

Its convertible season, that delightful time of year where the evening temperatures inspire a restlessness that leads to cruising with the top down. Here in Kingman, Arizona, that means taking to Route 66, mingling with the tourists in rental cars, the locals with their custom and classic cars, and, of course, herds of Harley Davidson's.

My wife and I prefer the quieter side of life. So, we usually savor the sunsets from the hills above Fort Beale, in the Hulapai Mountains, or from somewhere along Route 66.
It is on the way home, often along Route 66, that we get caught up in the excitement, the quickened tempo of the summer night. Sometimes its just to catch a shot of neon or a cold treat at Sonic or Mr. D'z Route 66 Diner but to cruise Route 66, to stop at the local drive in is to experience the romanticized dream that fuels the fascination with the double six and the passion for the '57 Chevy.

For years Kingman chose to turn its back on its historic and colorful past but tourists and new residents saw something wonderful in the dusty old buildings, the darkened neon and the stunning sunsets over skylines accentuated by colorful buttes and mesas. Slowly Kingman began to awaken from its long slumber.

The Brunswick Hotel again offers fine dining as well as time capsule lodging. Lights from the historic Central Commercial Building again light the desert nights. Events like Chillin' on Beale Street (scheduled for July 18) fill the streets in the historic district with music, vintage cars, and laughter.
The future looks even brighter. The owners of the historic Old Trails Garage, with support from the Route 66 Association of Kingman, have obtained a matching funds grant to transform the garage into the cornerstone for revitalization of the historic district.

This will begin with the restoration of a rare vintage Packard sales and service neon sign. This will be hung at its original location over the front door to cast its neon glow over Route 66.

Next will be a mural on the west wall. The initial plan is for three dimensional mural that presents the illusion this is an active Packard service center circa 1940.

On the home front there is a growing frustration and escalating sense of anticipation. I now have the tools and materials to transform my childhood dream of being a writer into a reality but am not sure how to proceed.

I took this as a vacation week, a sort of bus mans holiday as it is a working vacation. First, I took a couple of days to spend with my father who was visiting from Michigan. Then I finalized the photos submission request for the Vestar site.

Then I completed an outline, summary, and sample chapter for an agent in New York. This book, Ghosts of the Sauk Trail, is something I have wanted to write for some time.

Next, I worked my way through the final edit for Ghost Towns of the Southwest. I hope to finish this today and then start on the captions.

Listed among the "still to do" projects is finalizing the framework for Ghost Towns of Route 66, photos of Oatman for a website, more text for the Route 66 Association of Kingman website, my monthly Independent Thinker column for Cars & Parts magazine, and, now, outlines for three more projects.

These are a real estate promotional venture that has requested photos to be utilized as post cards, development of a monthly column for the online edition of the Kingman Daily Miner, and the framework for a stock photo website.

All of this is quite exciting. All of these things indicate we are drawing closer to making the dream come true. All of these things are important to promote my books, our photos, and our limited edition print series. All of these things are very time consuming. Few of these pay and those that do, don't pay well enough to make it my primary source of income.
So, next week its back to Penske. I am extremely grateful for the job, especially in light of the current economic conditions. I am also grateful for the owners of the company, Martin and Cody Swanty.

Then there is ministry, something I have neglected a bit as of late. You might say my priorities have been reversed in recent weeks.

That takes us to this Sunday. This will be the day I put things back into a proper order, a thought that reminds me tomorrow is Independence Day.

I would be remiss if I didn't ask that you take a moment from your celebrations to reflect on just what an amazing nation this is and how blessed we are to live her.

SUNRISE IN KINGMAN CANYON

2009-06-29T08:43:00.006-07:00

If at first you don't succeed and all of that stuff. This morning I rolled out of the sack at 4:30 for another shot at capturing the trains in Kingman Canyon. If I do say so I think this mornings work does a better job of capturing the majesty of the canyon as a backdrop for the trains.

This view is looking west towards the Sacramento Valley. It also presents a more detailed portrait of why train enthusiasts come from and wide to view trains here.

This shot has a Route 66 connection of note. The trestle in the background has stood for more than eighty years. On page 82 of Legendary Route 66, Michael Witzel has a photo of this bridge and a car below it on the National Old Trails Highway from about 1916.

The road between the west bound train and the trestle is the National Old Trails Highway. This was also Route 66 until 1938.

ROUTE 66, RAILS, AND ADVENTURES OF A FAMILY NATURE

2009-06-28T16:11:00.005-07:00

A corporate client asked for photos of trains in Kingman Canyon, a quintessential western landscape where two alignments of Route 66 run, one from 1939 and the other that is the orignal alignment and the route for the National Old Trails Highway. There are also two rail lines, and a sewage treatment facility that compete to detract from the stunning scenery.

To enhance the challenge to my fledgling skills they specifically requested a sunrise time for these photos. The results shown here are not my best work. In particular the sky has a dirty white sock quality to it that I do not feel is appealing.

So, tomorrow morning, at 4:30, we will try it from another angle. Perhaps we can have some clouds to accentuate the dawn.

Another client has requested photos of vintage buildings. As I was driving home this house, one of the oldest in Kingman, came to mind. I love this old place and wonder often why it hasn't been resurrected and if it ever will be.

Trains seem to be the theme for this weekend. On Friday my pa rolled in from Michigan on Amtrak.

So, Friday night we caught up with him at my sisters house. Saturday after work, largely as a way to beat the heat of our first one hundred degree day, we went to the theater and watched The Proposal, a chick flick that was a rather refreshing change from the crude special effects laden films that seem to dominate the film industry today.

Saturday evening my son stopped by after work and we had our first Hinckley family dinner in more than five years. I should add food to the weekend theme as on Sunday morning, after my photography safari, we headed into the pine forested Hualapai Mountains for a brunch at Haulapai Mountain Lodge, a delightful little eatery a dozen miles south of Kingman and Route 66.

I am taking the next week off from the office for a vacation of sorts. The list of things that need to be accomplished are rather lengthy and include a final outline for Ghosts of the Sauk Trail, a complete layout for Ghost Towns of Route 66, the final edit for Ghost Towns of the Southwest, and arrangement with a gallery to handle the sale our prints.

Then if I get bored there are press releases and their distribution for the Route 66 Association of Kingman that include promotion for Chillin' on Beale Street, the Street Drags, and the solicitation of monies as the organization has received a matching funds grant for the restoration of a vintage Packard sign. Another priority is extensive organizational efforts to rectify several years of being disorganized so I can start new projects which will in turn result in large piles that are disorganized.
I also have two meetings scheduled, one with the editor of the local paper and another with a real estate developer looking to build a promotional website. Additional website issues to be addressed are the writing of text for the Route 66 Association of Kingman site and try to figure our why my site, www.route66infocenter.com, has so little traffic.

All of these items, however, pale pale in importance to finding ways to savor time with my dearest friend. The heat will make that a challenge as it is not conducive to long walks in the desert, one of our favorite past times.

I suppose all of this helps me look forward to the return to the office for rest!

THE ADVENTURE CONTINUES

2009-06-26T05:44:00.003-07:00

We have been receiving requests for copies of photos that appear here on the blog, on the website (www.route66infocenter.com), in our books, and that accompany some our feature articles for quite some time. These requests as well as the positive response received at a fund raising exhibit at a local gallery prompted us to initiate a series of prints.

The first step was finding a professional photography shop that specialized in museum quality reproductions. This search led us to Tom Alexander photography in Flagstaff just a few blocks south of Route 66 on San Francisco Street. This in turn gave us an excuse for another adventure along the old double six.

This image of the Hilltop Motel, in Kingman, Arizona, was captured at sunrise the morning after a very rare snow. After careful consideration we selected it as the first for our "Icons of Route 66" series that will include other landmarks such as the Hackberry General Store, Cool Springs, Roy's in Amboy, and Funk's Grove.

This photo of an old cabin with Shep's water tower in the background was taken in Chloride, Arizona. This will be the first in our "Ghost Town" series.

This series is very dear to us for a number of reasons. Tangible links to the past are fast vanishing in our ghost towns and these prints will help preserve that legacy.

The prints are 11" x 14" but are matted to 16" x 20". This is a bit of shameless self promotion but in all honesty I feel these prints would make excellent gifts, really add something to an office or den, and as they are the first in a series might even be seen as an investment.

The prints will tie in with the release of our next two books, Ghost Towns of the Southwest and Ghost Towns of Route 66. However, the ghost town series of prints will not be limited to preserving the legacy of towns in Arizona and New Mexico.

We have already captured a number of images in Rhyolite, Nevada. Plans are also under way to capture the ghosts of the old Sauk Trail.

So, if you would like more information about the prints please drop us a note. As additional service we are also now offering specialized shots for website or promotional needs.

Okay, on to new business. The Chillin' on Beale Street event last week was so well received there will be another, larger Chillin' on Beale Street for July. I will keep you posted on details and post photos this weekend.

Then there are the annual street drags which have been expanded into a full scale block party with a wide array of activities. This event has exploded in popularity and for the first time will be covered by ESPN this year. I will supply contact information and details for this event in upcoming posts.

The office/museum/unofficial visitor center seems to be growing in popularity. So, if your in Kingman stop by, we would enjoy meeting you and hearing of your adventure on Route 66. If you have an event, a shop, or museum on Route 66 send us the information and we will post it or make sure it is distributed.

If time allows drop us a note. We want this blog as well as our website to be informative, fun, and reader directed.

HARLEY DAVIDSON, ROUTE 66, AND A CUBAN PERSPECTIVE

2009-06-24T12:57:00.006-07:00

Well, from what I could tell on Monday it would seem Williams, Arizona, fared well. The Rumble on Route 66 motorcycle event left many merchants with a smile and the town is still intact.

Now its Oklahoma City's turn. This upcoming weekend is the scheduled date for the national H.O.G. (Harley Owners Group) event. If the number of motorcycles I have seen heading eastward is any indication this will be a major happening on Route 66.

Here is a link for more information. http://www.harley-davidson.com/ex/hog/template.asp?fnc=evcal&loc=mevent/evcal&locale=en_US&bmLocale=en_US#

While we are on the subject of Harley Davidson I should add the recent issue of Cars & Parts had a feature that noted vintage motorcycles are fast becoming accepted participants at some of the most prestigious automotive events. I would say its about time.

I am not a big motorcycle enthusiast but Harley Davidson, Indian, and some of the less well know manufacturers played a very key role in the development of the evolution of the American car crazed culture. I remember how fondly my step father talked of riding his '29 Harley to California from Iowa in 1938.

I have often noted how much enjoyment is derived from visitors to my office/museum as they travel Route 66. This iconic highway is not the only source for my visitors.

Kingman has a reputation for being a place where folks break down. As the Chrysler dealer is the parent company for our rental agency I meet a lot of great folks through unfortunate circumstances.

This morning I was privileged to meet a well read gentleman with a fascinating perspective on the state of the nation, the fascination with Route 66, and life in general. He came from Cuba to the United States during the mid sixties as a teenager.

His is not a rags to riches story as he is still working on the riches. Still, he has managed to rise from lowly bell boy that could afford to eat but once every other day to owner of his own small transport company.

I am afraid that as a whole we are quite spoiled here in this wonderful nation. Tragically this often leads to a myopic condition where we allow self motivated individuals to sell us on the idea that the problems we face are best addressed by mailing them money or casting our vote for them.

The second tragedy associated with seeing the blessings bestowed upon us as something we are owed and as something that we can have without responsibility is that we tend to see the glass as half full. In short we often have a tendency to whine allot, are unhappy, and allow minor setbacks or irritants to become our scapegoat for (fill in the blanks).

Seeing the nation through his eyes was most inspirational and encouraging.

Enough of the soap box. Its summer. Lets get out there and enjoy what we have. Lets get to know our neighbors with a little lemonade and porch time, lets take to the highway and rediscover what a great nation this is. Lets take just a moment from our day to be thankful for what we do have and not lament about what we don't have.

ROUTE 66, FLAGSTAFF, AND NEW ADVENTURES

2009-06-24T05:27:00.007-07:00

*all photos copyright Hinckley Photo Service

First, new business. Arrangements are complete and the printing and matting is underway.

Our ghost town series of limited edition, numbered, matted, and signed 11X14 inch prints will be officially launched on July 1. The first in the series will be this old miners cabin in Chloride, Arizona.

The tangible links to the past in our ghost towns is fast vanishing. In visiting some of these places I was amazed by how many buildings had collapsed in just a couple of years. These prints will forever preserve these scarce remnants as well as enhance a den or office.

It may seem a bit vain but I also feel they will be an investment. As the series progress through the ghost towns of Route 66 the earlier prints are sure to increase in value. Since these will be limited in number to 100 it might be best to order now as well as place your name on our list for notification when the next print in the series will be released. Please contact us for further details.
The prints were the reason for our latest Route 66 adventure, a cruise east to Flagstaff. After careful research and evaluation of references we decided to entrust the production of the prints to Tom Alexander Photography in Flagstaff.
I am not a big Flagstaff fan. The traffic is the primary deterrent. So, on the majority of our visits we seek out a different restaurant for a fresh dining experience, hit Bookman's to restock the library, and cruise through.

This trip was a bit different. Mr. Alexander's photography studios is in old Flagstaff so we got to experience Route 66 as it was during the glory days with traffic thick and heavy.

Parking in the old part of Flagstaff is always a challenge but on this trip it was even more so with a great deal of street repair underway. We were quite fortunate to find at the circa 1926 railroad station that was dead center to our two primary stops, the photography studio and Brix's, a restaurant my wife discovered on line.
The photography shop was four blocks south and the restaurant was four blocks north. As the weather was near perfect, about 80 degrees, this made for a delightful opportunity to explore the architectural jewel box that is the Flagstaff historic district.

As I am heavily involved in relighting vintage signs in Kingman the staggering number that remain in Flagstaff really grabbed my attention. The next time your cruising Route 66 in Flagstaff I strongly suggest parking, at the visitor center/train station if possible, and walk four blocks south on San Francisco Street and then four blocks north on the same street.

The wide array of vintage architecture, fascinating shops and galleries, and numerous side walk cafes will reward your efforts. As to Brix's, I give it a high recommendation.

The prices are are at the upper end of the mid range but the food is superb and dining on the outdoor patio is so relaxing. The restaurant is located in the four hundred block of North San Francisco Street.

SO YOU WANT TO BE A WRITER - PART THREE

2009-06-20T10:11:00.005-07:00

I know this photo has been posted at least two or three dozen times here on the blog and elsewhere. Being of an artistic mind (a fancy way of saying I am a half bubble off center which allows for a different perspective) I saw something in this photo never noticed before.

At this time I have two projects, both with pressing deadlines, vying for my time. So, from that reference point the photo is symbolic.

There is about to be a crash between a vintage Ford and a Corvette and I am right in the projected impact zone. The Ford is my writing career of the past sixteen years - a bit outmoded but steady and dependable with a book written about every 18 months, a feature column for Cars & Parts, and features for other publications on occasion.

The Corvette is a new era, a mid life crisis if you will. The farm and the old truck will still be an important part of my life but for now its top down, pedal to the metal, down the highway.

I have accepted the contract for Ghost Towns of Route 66 with a deadline for completion of less than one year. The delayed final edit for Ghost Towns of the Southwest will be in my hands next week with seven days allotted for completion.

I have finally attracted the attention of a New York City agent. The problem here is he needs a complete outline, sample chapter, biography, compilation of previously published work, and extensive folio of published photography to submit to a publisher interested in retaining me for a project. The hitch here is this will be needed in ten days or less.

So, now we have the opportunity to take this to the big leagues, or at least another rung up the ladder. This is also the latest in a series of events that are leading toward expansion of our artistic endeavors - photography.

I am a bit new at this but my wife has a passion for photography that stretches back to high school and beyond. Her talented work appears on this blog rather often.

Well, to make a long story longer, I have sold a few photos as illustrations that accompany features written for various magazines. The bottom photo on my last book, Backroads of Route 66, was another venture into the world of professional photography.

Then in May everything went into high gear. First, a framed print of the Route 66 Backroads cover shot, donated as a fund raiser to the Route 66 Association of Kingman sold surprisingly well.

Next, our work was selected as the center piece for a month long Route 66 exhibit at Beale Street Brews and Gallery. This has led to numerous requests for prints which in turn has led to consideration of offering a limited edition, numbered and signed series of prints profiling ghost towns we have visited. To that end we will be on the road to Flagstaff, via Route 66, next week to discuss this with a publisher and printer.

Then there are the commercial requests. One, to supply material to head a major international corporate websites pages has been approved and work is underway.

The second for a real estate promotional site is pending. Last but not least we have been selected to provide a large percentage of text and photos for the forthcoming Route 66 Association of Kingman website.

The Route 66 shield in this photo is also symbolic. That old highway hangs over our head in all we do. Sometimes it offers welcome shade and other times it seems as though it is about to fall on us.

For those aspiring writers who are curious about how much all of this pays let me say I still have a full time job. Still, there is always that promise of the big strike that keeps us trudging from one hill to the next, through the desert sands, and that enables us to pour money down a very deep well where we know someday we will strike oil.

If there are any psychiatrists reading this I am sure enough material has been supplied today for a new book on abnormal psychology. If you care to share those thoughts, and I may assist as a case study, please feel free to drop a note.

MORE NOTES FROM THE ROAD

2009-06-18T13:19:00.002-07:00

I never tire of the stunning scenery here in the desert southwest. Even better are the "never two the same" sunrises and sunsets. Is there a better way to start or end a day?
Now, as to new business. This Saturday night is the first of our summer "Chillin' on Beale Street" festivals. Food, music, old cars, food, and old fashioned fun just one block north of historic Route 66. Did I mention there will be food?
Well, if you are in the neighborhood I hope you will stop by. I have a feeling this is going to a very memorable evening under star studded desert skies.
The clock is ticking on the deadline for submission of mural ideas. So, if you have an artistic flair and want the world to know it here is your opportunity.
Jim Conkle and Bob Lile have earned real kudos for their efforts to get the Route 66 Pulse back on the road. I encourage every fan of the double six to support their efforts.
Today's final note pertains to ghost towns of Route 66. I am really drawing a blank as far as Illinois goes so if you have ideas please share them.

MORE NOTES FROM THE ROAD

2009-06-17T11:20:00.003-07:00

Yes, it has been unusually cool here and no, it hasn't been cold enough for snow in June. This photo of Chloride, Arizona was taken in mid February on one of our afternoon "search for lunch" adventures.
My wife's family has a long association with this old mining town and we are adding to that tradition by profiling it in our forthcoming book, Ghost Towns of the Southwest. That and its close proximity to home made it an ideal candidate as we sought a location for a suitable cover shot for that book last Sunday.
As always our visit was a pleasant one even though it lacked the excitement of our previous adventure when we decided to test the prowess of the Jeep in the mountains that loom above town. Friendly folks, quiet streets, and stunning desert scenery are but a small part of the charm.
For more than a century Chloride has mirrored the ebb and flow of the southwest. Today that reflection is one of change.
New construction and new faces have added a "yuppie" aspect that wasn't there just a few years ago when my son and his cousins traveled the streets on well worn ATV's. Change in a favorite place is always difficult to see but, perhaps, this is why we have been blessed with memories and photographs.
Change seems to be a primary topic in our lives this past few years. Lets see, I am now a grandfather and the milestone of turning fifty is fast becoming a distant memory.
Promotion of new books has served as the catalyst for many a grand adventure. Development of new books and projects, such as a series of limited edition photographic prints, promises even more.
We have acquired a Jeep Cherokee that ensures our standard for what constitutes an adventure will be raised a notch or two. This was evidenced on our trial run for the new "family truckster" and plans to seek out alignments of Route 66 not used in at least sixty years.
Obviously change is not always a good thing. The pressure associated with the never ending learning curve of new technology as well as the current state of the economy often has me seeing Amish farmer as an upward career move.
Well, my closing thought of the day is this. Working like this is a sure death but it is a slower one than starvation.

NOTES FROM THE ROAD

2009-06-17T09:20:00.002-07:00

Noise ordinances are a popular subject of debate and discussion if on line forums present an accurate reflection of public sentiment. This piece from the Williams News in Williams, Arizona, is rather interesting.
First, it is not about Harley Davidson's. Second, it is from a town that openly promotes itself as a haven and destination for motorcycle enthusiasts.

Patrick WhitehurstReporterTuesday, June 09, 2009
Patrick Whitehurst/WGCN WILLIAMS - A new ordinance to control noise levels in the downtown area is in the works, following a discussion on the matter by members of Williams City Council during their regular meeting May 28. Officials plan to look at the creation of a new ordinance, controlled by decibel levels, which may limit the volume of live music in the area during evening hours. The current noise ordinance, they said, is far outdated and no longer applicable to downtown Williams.Grand Canyon Hotel owner Oscar Fredrickson spoke to council members about the possible noise ordinance during the meeting. He said the noise issue stems from live musicians who play downtown at night, particularly during the summer months, but also during off-peak times as well. According to Fredrickson, the noise is so loud that many of his customers complain."This came about two months ago when we had an incident with one of the bars in the central area," Fredrickson said. "The difficulty we had is that we live and work in the same hotel, so we don't actually close the doors at 5 p.m. and go to Country Club or go to a different part of the community where we don't hear any of the noise."
The feature continues with, "Council members spoke about the possibility of purchasing a device that would read decibel levels, should they enact a noise ordinance.According to Williams Police Chief Herman Nixon, using decibel levels to enforce city ordinance would be easily accomplished.
This is the section I found of particular interest. Most discussions on this topic that I have followed are full of whining but little substance. It would seem the old adage talk is cheap is timeless in nature. "There is a state statute that covers noise disturbance. The problem with that is that somebody has to be a victim and come to court with all this," Nixon said. "Most people don't want to do this. A decibel figure would work out perfectly for the police department."
Content © 2009 Williams News/williamsnews.com

GHOST TOWNS, NEON, AND NEW ADVENTURES

2009-06-15T10:47:00.004-07:00

A new assignment led to this photo of the neon on the Power House Visitor Center in Kingman, Arizona. A local real estate developer asked for photos that could be used under a limited license agreement for promotion of Kingman and the surrounding area.

The neat thing about assignments such as these is it allows me to see my "home town" as a tourist. This is where my correspondence and breakfasts with travelers gives me an edge.

The next title scheduled for release from Voyageur Press written by Jim Hinckley is Ghost Towns of the Southwest. Unfortunately the publication date was moved from fall of this year to spring of next year.

We are that stage of selecting a cover photo. This photo of Chloride and the one below are ones that I submitted for consideration.
Which photo do you feel best captures the feel of ghost towns of the southwest?

Projects are coming from all directions. I am supplying material, text and photos, for the forth coming Route 66 Association of Kingman website, for a real estate developers website, and photographs for another developers site. In addition I am now writing the press releases for the Route 66 Association of Kingman as well as providing assistance in their circulation.

Of course we are also gathering material for our website, www.route66infocenter.com, the blog, and the next book, Ghost Towns of Route 66. The new book leads to another project, an exciting opportunity to introduce my dearest friend to the wonders of Route 66 this fall.

All of this is is in addition to press releases and promotion of our work, the full time job, and all of the things entailed with caring for an elderly parent as well as meeting the needs of a family and occasional ministry. Then, in my spare time, I try to maintain my long standing schedule of reading one book a month. The current slection is Inside the Third Reich - Memoirs by Albert Speer.

The recent spat of inquiries and requests for photos, as well as assistance with press releases and the development of promotional concepts, hints that my work is garnering some attention. Another indicator is found in a note from a friend on vacation that found Route 66 Backroads in the gift shop at the Sears Tower in Chicago.

There is a certain degree of frustration in all of this. When will these endeavors bear fruit in the form of profits? It is almost as though I am pushing a wheelbarrow full of rocks up hill. A few years ago I was doing this with a flat tire so a certain amount of solace can be found in the fact the tire now has air. Still, how much farther is it to the top?

Well, I suppose its all just part of the grand adventure we call life. Still, in the grand scheme of things I realize just how blessed, how fortunate I am.
Topping the list of things for which I am grateful has to be my wife. How many men are fortunate enough to have a dear friend that is an endless source of encouragement to share these adventures with?

ROUTE 66 IS ALIVE AND WELL IN KINGMAN ARIZONA

2009-06-12T13:35:00.004-07:00

Things are really popping along Route 66 in Kingman! Here are a couple of press releases pertaining to the mural project that has the promise to truly transform the town as well as folks perception of it.

Native American Mural

Kingman Route 66 Association
kingmanroute66association@gmail.com
Contact: Tim McDonnell 928-377-9684

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Kingman Route 66 Association is seeking a mural artist to render images portraying the history of Native American tribes in northwestern Arizona. The mural will be on the west facing wall of the Fastrax Medical building on US 93 at the west end of Kingman.
The concept is to create a panoramic history of these tribes including their future as represented by the Skywalk at Grand Canyon West. The proximity of this building to the site of Fort Beale, the first Hualapai Indian Reservation, and the initial staging area for the Hualapai Trail of Tears forced march to the Colorado River should be incorporated into the design.
1) Artist will need to submit rendering of proposed mural with cost estimate and estimate of time for completion. In addition artist will need to submit references and examples of previous work –
2) The deadline for submission is 6:00 PM on July 15, 2009 –
3) The selected artist will receive immediate notification of additional projects as this is but one in a city wide initiative that will portray the rich and diverse history of the Kingman area through colorful murals –

Old Trails Mural

Kingman Route 66 Association
kingmanroute66association@gmail.com
Contact: Tim McDonnell 928-377-9684

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Kingman Route 66 Association is seeking a mural artist to render images portraying a busy service facility in a circa 1940 Packard dealership. These murals will be painted within the outline of original doors and windows on the west facing wall of the historic Old Trails Garage.
The concept is to create the illusion of peering through the dusty windows of a vintage Packard garage. The buildings history dating to circa 1910 and its association with Route 66 should also be incorporated into the design.
1) Artist will need to submit rendering of proposed mural with cost estimate as well as estimate of time needed for completion. In addition artist will need to submit references and examples of previous work –
2) The deadline for submission is 6:00 PM on July 15, 2009 –
3) The selected artist will receive immediate notification of additional projects as this is but one in a city wide initiative that will portray the rich and diverse history of the Kingman area through colorful murals -

As with any project funding is an issue. This association is addressing that problem from a wide array of angles; a silent auction for a signed, limited edition print by Jim Hinckley, membership drives, and, if they can get a donated vehicle, a raffle for a Route 66 cruiser.

Even if you don't reside in Kingman your assistance would be most appreciated. Lets transform this corner of Route 66 together!

A QUICK NOTE FROM THE ABYSS

2009-06-11T14:58:00.003-07:00

Its odd where the twists and turns of life lead, especially here in the electronic age where the tangled web of the Internet can transform a good old boy from the back woods of Arizona into a celebrity of sorts in France or even Japan. Take this photo of me in front of the murals at the Mohave Museum of History & Arts in Kingman, Arizona.
The photo was part of a series taken when I first received the Olympus camera. I was playing with the timer and various settings when this back drop gave me the idea of fulfilling the request for a shot to be used in some press releases.
Fast forward a little more than a year. I have met folks in Williams and Prescott, Arizona, that knew me from this photo. Some of these fine folks were on vacation, one was from New Zealand.
I have had people look me up as they roll through Kingman to ask where the photo was taken as they are interested in the mural behind me. The last request was from a couple that resided in Fiji!
Now, I suppose tying this odd, dark title with this rambling train of thought is warranted. Well, simply put that was the best way to describe my mood this afternoon, a mood influenced by thoughts of Route 66, its many faces, and a late lunch.
To my rear is the path already traveled, a long and not always pleasant journey through self induced misery, unmerited grace and favor, and a multitude of blessings that leave me with the impression that for a man of such high mileage I am very, very fortunate. Just ahead, somewhere just below the horizon but still far enough away to be obscured by the haze of distance, is a couple of forks in the road.
One leads to that place where I derive all, or at least the majority, of our income from writing and photography. That one hints of excitement but I am sure it is a rather unnerving path filled with uncertainty. Still, it is the one I have been seeking for some time now.
The other looks much smoother than most of the one that lies behind me. In fact it looks a lot like the one I am traveling now.
Regardless of chosen path, the margin for error in decisions made is now very, very narrow. Another issue is the thought of climbing some of those steep hills on the road less traveled now that I am well past the half way point in this journey called life on planet earth causes me to hesitate every once and awhile.
I know that somewhere out there these roads will converge. The question is which one do I take first and what adventures await as I skirt the abyss that is creeping age.
If this seems a bit gloomy I apologize. Life is good - if we choose to look beyond the pain, strive to leave this place a little better than when we got here, laugh more often than we cry, and think of others more than we think of ourselves.
As noted all of this meditation was sparked by the two faces of Route 66 here in western Arizona. The post 1953 alignment through Yucca, now largely erased by I40, is the path of least resistance. This is the route of same old, same old, business as usual, don't rock the boat, set the cruise control and enjoy the ride.
The pre 1953 alignment that snakes through the Black Mountains is fraught with dangerous twists and turns. Inattention can be disastrous. However, the reward is adventure, stunning views, and lots of opportunity for stopping to smell the roses.
The road through Yucca is working for the pay check and hoping the pay checks don't stop flowing. The price paid for this "security" is boredom at best and in the worst case scenario, golden years spent as a greeter at Walmart.
The road through Oatman is an uncertain one but at least there is the possibility of adventure. At least there is that rare opportunity for making the last half of this show much, much better then the first and leaving a little something behind besides paycheck stubs.
In either case the decision as to which road to take is still miles ahead. I have just cleared Truxton Canyon and that long stretch across the Hualapai Valley is just ahead.

WELCOME TO THE STATE OF CONFUSION

2009-06-10T10:36:00.002-07:00

I do not know when it first began. I do know that with the election of President Obama it is becoming more common. I am talking about that odd feeling you get after waking up in the middle of a French film with Japanese subtitles.
As a fan of the old Twilight Zone television program it is almost as though Rod Serling wrote the script for the world I now live in. In all honesty does much of what is happening make sense?Chrysler, an American automotive manufacturing company that a few years ago became a hybrid German automobile company now becomes an Italian company. The federal government institutes a stimulus program for CEO's where they are amply rewarded for poor management that leads to the bankruptcy of their company.
To big to fail is the mantra of the day. Where was that philosophy when Studebaker, Packard, Nash, Hudson, and Auburn were on the ropes?
There was a time in this fair land, not so long ago, when innovation, not intervention, was the salvation of a company. Does anyone remember American Motors, the Phoenix that rose from the ashes of Nash and Hudson?
Some years ago I was working on a ranch in southern New Mexico near the Mexican border. An old cowboy philosopher I worked with had an odd, and even warped, outlook on life that seems so fitting today.
"If you think today is a bad day wait until tomorrow when its worse. Then you can look back on today with fondness."
That about sums it up. I suffered through the rebellion of the 1960s where the mantra was to throw the baby out with the bath water and survived the disco era. During those years, even in my wildest imagination, I never imagined there would be a time when those days would be looked upon with fondness. Now, here I am longing for those confused, goofy times.
I suppose what is needed most at this time is to roll the rubber along the old double six. At least there and along the other old two lane highways you can still find the welcoming glow of neon after a long drive, folks who prefer their change in the pocket, and remnants from a time when the world made sense.
In a closing thought eight seconds is not really a very long time. However, when that chute opens and that horse is spinning on a dime it can seem like an eternity.
Well, cinch it down tight folks as the chute is about to open and I have a feeling this will be one hell of a ride.

VINTAGE CARS, MUSINGS, AND THE PROSPECT OF NEW ADVENTURES

2009-06-08T08:47:00.005-07:00

I am still fascinated with the seemingly endless possibilities involved with digital photography manipulation. For most folks this may not be a big deal.

However, for me this technology unleashes my overactive imagination. When I can take a photo, such as this one of an old Ford near Hackberry on Route 66, and transform it into what appears to be an historic artifact the first thought that comes to mind is how cool it would be to create a new, "old" photo album of Route 66.

For our Sunday "walkabout" we took advantage of the remarkably cool temps (abut 79 degrees) and strolled the trails in the hills above Fort Beale Springs. I love long walks, especially in such serene surroundings and in the company of my dearest friend, as they allow for time to reflect, to formulate thoughts, and plan.

If there were a central topic to yesterdays train of thought it would be my twisted path as a writer and the lure of riches that keep me stumbling along that path as a prospector seeking the next big strike. In short I have managed to transform writing into a second full time job, one that pays a bit more than McDonalds but not enough for me to quit the day job.

Still, I enjoy sharing special places, meeting new people, and introducing folks to the fascinating world of automotive history. That is a fancy way of saying I am good at telling people where to go, get lost often but am not afraid to ask for directions, and can talk old cars for hours even if I am the only one in the room and still enjoy myself. That takes us to an explanation for these photos of a 1916 Hudson Super Six. The kind folks with the Hudson club were quite helpful in providing information for a series of articles I wrote for Cars & Parts magazine profiling this legendary auto maker.

This led to being involved with the Yahoo Hudson Super Six discussion group. The first generation Hudson Super Six is a series of automobile that has long held my fascination.

The budget that allows me to purchase one of these fine automobiles has proven quite elusive. As evidenced by the fact I don't jump on this one ($25,000) that budget is still eluding me.

If you are interested in giving this wonderful automobile a good home here is the owners contact information.

Larry A. Dishong Work: (714) 254-2508

I would like to note this car, a fine example of the first year Hudson Super Six, may be old but these cars are drivers. As an example consider this - to introduce these cars a Hudson team

drove a Super Six from San Francisco to New York, over the roads of 1916, in 5 days, 3 hours, and 31 minutes! Even better is the fact this was accomplished without mechanical failure.

Another car, with special body, was driven to 102.53 miles per hour. In addition a Super Six was driven to a new Pikes peak record of 18 minutes, 24 seconds.

Another train of thought is the possibility for new adventures. With the contract for Ghost Towns of Route 66 in hand I am now contemplating a fall run from Kingman to Chicago along this legendary highway.

Adding to the excitement of that project is that with exception of a train trip to Chicago and a few flights to Detroit and Virginia my wife has never been east of Albuquerque. To be able to share the wonders of a road trip on the old double six with my dearest friend is an exciting prospect indeed.

One final note for today. I have received a number of requests for prints of some of the photos that are posted here. Would you be interested in a series of limited edition prints, say icons of Route 66?

I would really appreciate your comments and ideas.

ROUTE 66 UPDATES

2009-06-05T10:10:00.003-07:00

I had a couple of quick minutes and as this will most likely constitute my lunch hour today it seemed like an ideal time for some quick Route 66 updates. Perhaps we can get a debate and discussion going about a couple of important topics.
First, there is the Harvey House Hullabaloo scheduled for today, June 5. I know this is short notice but if your in the neighborhood this sounds like a great deal of fun and the museums in the historic Harvey House complex could use a little support. The event and admission to both museums will be free today.
The next order of business pertains to the Arizona H.O.G. (Harley Owners Group) rally for 2010. This ties into our first discussion of the weekend, the noise ordinances - pros, cons, more enforcement, less enforcement, etc. Any thoughts or ideas?
The tourism dollars derived from specialized events built on the iconic status of Haley Davidson are a true asset for a community, especially those that depend heavily on tourism or that are rural in nature and as a result have limited revenue streams. The current economic climate adds to the value of those dollars.
The flip side is the potential damage. Will the tourism dollars from this weekend offset the revenue lost from tourism dollars not flowing into the community that weekend as a result of the motorcycle themed event? If the community enforces reasonable noise ordinances will it curtail the number of participants? If it doesn't enforce reasonable noise ordinances what will be the adverse affect on residents?
Kingman put in a valiant effort to host the event for 2010 but was beat out by Williams, a community that has a history of hosting motorcycle related events. On that note if Harley Davidson's, Route 66, and cool mountain breezes are your thing then it might be a good idea to plan on being in Williams for Rumble on '66 on June 19Th and 20Th.
If, however, you prefer your kicks on Route 66 at decibel levels that allow for conversation and the prevention of future support for hearing aid manufacturers you might wish to avoid Williams that weekend and instead get your fun in Kingman, the self proclaimed heart of historic Route 66. Scheduled for the evening of Saturday, June 20Th, "Chillin' on Beale Street" is the first in a monthly series that will run through September.
In addition to classic cars and hot rods, as well as motorcycles, there will be good music, great foods, prizes, and some interesting automotive related games. These include a valve cover derby, fan belt toss, and tire herding. The event, in historic Kingman one block north of Route 66, is sponsored by the Route 66 Cruzers, Arizona Car Nutz, the Downtown Merchants Association, and the Route 66 Association of Kingman
On a final note my little office/museum/rental car agency/unofficial visitor center is turning out to be an excellent way for me to enjoy Route 66 and to meet the fascinating and pleasant folks who are seeking its treasures. In the past month I have met and dined with a delightful couple from Holland, another gentleman from Holland who chose a bicycle for the adventure, a fellow known best by his moniker "The Wombat", some bikers from California, and a gentleman from Ohio reliving a childhood trip on the highway but this time seeing the sights from a Harley Davidson.
I hope anyone motoring west or east will stop in for at least a quick "howdy". Perhaps you can stay awhile and take in the sites such as Chillin on Beale Street.

ROUTE 66 THEN, NOW, AND NEXT YEAR

2009-06-01T17:01:00.004-07:00

Here in Kingman a new chapter is beginning for Route 66. The Route 66 Association of Kingman is spearheading a project to light the way through town with vintage neon.

The first candidate is this vintage Packard sales & service sign. In this photo the sign is on Duke's garage, now a transmission rebuilding shop.

Its original location was on the circa 1910 Old Trails Garage on Route 66 to the west of the Brunswick Hotel. Once it is restored this will again be its location.

In addition plans call for the west facing wall to be dressed up with three dimensional murals over the doors and windows that are now sealed. These murals will reflect the inside of a busy shop during the same era as the Packard sign, about 1930.
After completion of the Old Trails Garage attention will turn towards the refurbishment of other signs including the one from the old City Cafe. As with so many projects the first obstacle is in acquisition of funds for the restoration.

To that end the association will be holding a series of silent auctions and is looking for the tax

deductible donation of a vintage car for a raffle.

For more information, to donate a vehicle, or to make a donation, contact the association at kingmanroute66association@gmail.com

Okay, now I can explain the Edsel promo. First, Edsel Ford will be the subject of my next Independent Thinker column for Cars & Parts magazine.

Second, is another Kingman and Route 66 Association. The old Edsel dealership is still existent here on Kingman. Its showroom windows faced onto Route 66.

In later years this became a GM dealership and before Edsel it was a Ford sales agency. My imagination often runs faster than I am capable of keeping up with but how neat would it be if we could transform the Old Trails garage into a vintage Packard dealership and then restore an Edsel dealership. How about if we throw in a vintage Ford dealership, a Chrysler dealership from the 1940s, and transform the current Harley exhibit into a 3D vintage shop for motorcycles?

No one will ever accuse me of not dreaming large!

GHOST TOWN ADVENTURES ON ROUTE 66

2009-05-31T19:25:00.007-07:00

Another week, another series of adventures on Route 66. First there was the day job. It often resembles a circus but this week it was as though a circus had been combined with a carnival and the resultant festival was being hosted in an asylum where they were reenacting the sinking of the Titanic.

Suffice to say it was an adventure. The only thing I can add to that is it was not the type of adventure where you look forward to a repeat performance. Locking the door Saturday at noon was the highlight of the work week.

I am like a little kid watching fireworks on the 4Th of July when it comes to days where the skies are filled with towering clouds. In watching their shadows transform the colors of the desert landscapes I am reminded of kaleidoscopes from my childhood.

So, when I awoke Friday morning to beautiful black thunderheads and some much needed rain it was quite difficult to think about work. The stressful week, the cooler temperatures, the frustration associated with such tight time constraints I was unable to attend a wedding, and the stunning cloud formations made it even harder on Saturday morning.

As a result, when I turned the key in the lock at noon on Saturday the only thought in mind was rushing home, grabbing a quick lunch, and heading for the hills with my dearest friend. The lengthy "to do" list of priority projects, including those at the office that required attention, would just have to wait an hour. I could even justify this by calling it a lunch hour.

For this "walk about" we chose the trails above Fort Beale in the foothills of the Cerbat Mountains. In the company of my dearest friend the stress of the week seemed to melt away like a stick of butter on a parking lot in Amboy in mid July before we had walked a mile.
We kept it short and simple but I returned renewed and refreshed, ready to face an afternoon of work that included, reservation confirmations, truck tracking, research on Ghost Towns of Route 66 and laying the groundwork for another possible project, Ghosts of the Purple Sage.

These projects coupled to the response received by our first public photo exhibit have spawned another endeavor, a numbered series of professionally framed and matted, limited edition prints. The initial question is in regards to topic.

My first line of thought was a series on the icons of Route 66, places like Cool Springs, the Hackberry General Store, the Cozy Dog, and the Big Texan Steak House in Amarillo. Then I began to think about a series on the ghost towns of Route 66. Do you have any ideas or suggestions?

To end the day we watched Valkyrie, the story of the unsuccessful plot to assassinate Hitler in 1944. The men involved in this plot have long fascinated and inspired me for they help me to remember that for evil to succeed all it takes is for good men to do nothing.

The movie was good. The acting excellent. Overall, however, the story fell short. Somehow it failed to stir the anxiety and instead came across as a documentary.

Sunday morning was even nicer than Saturday so we saddled up early and returned for another round of exploration in the Hualapai Mountains. As noted in a previous post these mountains and Hualapai Mountain Park just ten miles south of Route 66 have to rate in the top ten list of overlooked side trips for the traveler on that legendary highway.

There is nothing like some completed projects, the thrill of new ones on the horizon, and time spent with my dearest friend among some of God's finest handiwork to give me the strength to face another week at the zoo.

GHOSTS OF THE PURPLE SAGE

2009-05-29T15:01:00.002-07:00

Its odd how the mind works. I have been asked to

consider a third ghost town book, one that profiles towns that had their boom and bust during the period 1900 to 1950.

When the topic was introduced the first thing that came to mind were the towns of the desert basins of eastern California, central Nevada, and western Arizona. Many of the towns established in these rugged, forbidding landscapes during this period represented a new era in the history of the southwest.

Towns such as Rhyolite, Goldfield, and Tonapah, unlike their frontier era cousins, may have been rough and tumble mining camps at their core but they were also modern, bustling communities of brick and stone construction.

Residents enjoyed running water and electricity. Most had railroad stations, movie theaters, and a few even had automobile dealerships.

Perhaps this is one reason their demise is so fascinating. For all intents and purposes these were modern towns with promising futures. In my mind this makes their empty streets even more haunting as it seems as though they represent the ghost of Christmas future.

Somewhere in the back of my mind thoughts of the project must have been circulating. As I was organizing some photo files this one of a sunset on Route 66 near Kingman grabbed my attention and in an instant I had a working title - Ghosts of the Purple Sage, a nodding tribute to Zane Grey.

It makes me wonder what other loose things are rolling around in there and where they will surface.

A FRONT ROW SEAT

2009-05-29T05:58:00.004-07:00

The international fascination with Route 66 never cease to amaze me. Its almost as though this highway has transcended its original purpose to become a community suspended between the past and the present.

Examples that reflect the sense of community among fans, those who preserve its history, or that make a living from it abound. Yesterday, Mike Wallace, owner of Central Garage in Reynoldsburg, Ohio, stopped by the office/museum/unofficial Route 66 visitor center on the return leg of his ride along the old double six. On his trip west he delivered a note from Laurel Kane at Afton Station to Debra at the Route 66 Mother Road Museum in the old Harvey House in Barstow.

Two weeks ago I was adjusting my plans to breakfast with Dries Bessel of Holland so we could include Johan, another resident of Holland that had chosen a bicycle rather than motorcycle for his Route 66 adventure. A few days before that it was a delightful couple from England who had been told in Illinois to contact me if they had questions or problems in western Arizona that stopped by.
Less than one day after Jeff Meyer, an icon of the Route 66 renaissance movement, was hospitilized forums, messsage boards, and chat rooms were buzzing about his condition.
You can bet your bottom dollar he will be inundated with cards and prayers from well wishers throughout the world. If you are familiar with Mr. Meyer's many contributions to breathing new life into Route 66 and would like to wish him well the mailing address is:
Jeff Meyer
Bed 31, ICU
Northwest Community Hospital
800 West Central Road
Arlington Heights, IL 60005
What is it about the old double six that promotes such a camaraderie among enthusiasts? How is it this highway was elevated to the status of icon and others such as the Lincoln Highway languish as an "historic highway" and a nice drive?
Mine is not to question why. Mine is to lend a helping hand where I can and to enjoy my front row seat to the delightful parade that never seems to end.