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Foster Braun

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Blog Entries posted by Foster Braun

  1. Foster Braun
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    In our Winter 2013 issue of American Road Magazine we wandered a bit north of our theme area of Washington State into the Canadian Rockies for the subject of our Memory Motel Column. Tucked in the foothills of the craggy grandeur of British Columbia near the town of Ainsworth Springs stands the Mermaid Lodge and Motel. Not quite the image that would seem to go with a town that grew up in the rough and tumble of the Canadian Gold Rush.
     
    In part three and our final interview with Marsh Gillies, the current innkeeper shares a wonderful story about the bawdy mermaid sign that once graced her Lodge and the artists who have memorialized the inn.
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

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    History comes alive everyday in Springfield, Illinois! It’s interactive time-travel fun for the entire family! For more about great getaway packages call 800-545-7300 …or, go to www.visit-springfieldillinois.com. Illinois. Mile After Magnificent Mile.

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    Today’s interview is brought to you by the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway--Where the Mother Road Begins. From famous road-side restaurants to hidden gems, Route 66 in Illinois offers a journey back in time.





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    Pick up a copy of American Road magazine and don't miss another edition!


     

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    American Road Magazine:
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  2. Foster Braun
    http://www.audioacrobat.com/play/WTSVRRyx] Click here to listen...[/url]
    http://americanroad.audioacrobat.com/download/542b72de-4321-14bc-cfa0-58bb7acc6194.mp3] Click here to download [/url]
     
    The rich earth of the Mississippi River bottom just east of St. Louis has long been a place to grow some of the best produce in the country. In particular, it was something of the tomato capital of the Midwest for many decades. What better monument to that juicy history than a massive catsup bottle, masquerading as the city water tower for Collinsville, Ilinois? In this podcast you’ll meet the Big Tomato himself, Mike Gassman, who along with his wife and many other volunteers have successfully fought to preserve their unique roadside attraction.
     
    This podcast is brought to you by:
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    Springfield, Illinois .


    History comes alive everyday in Springfield, Illinois! It’s interactive time-travel fun for the entire family! For more about great getaway packages call 800-545-7300 …or, go to visit-springfieldillinois.com. Illinois. Mile After Magnificent Mile.
     
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    Joplin, MO
    The Mother Road is calling the world to Joplin, MO. Get the family calendar and make plans for the Route 66 International Festival this August in Downtown Joplin. The-3 day International Festival will be a celebration of the heritage of historical Route 66. The gathering will feature cultural performances, car show, Route 66 quilt exhibit, crafts and food vendors. Authors, artists and collectors of everything Route 66 will gather to share their passion for the history and preservation of the famed highway. The Route 66 International Festival will be held August 1-3, 2013. For more information visit www.route66internationalfestival.com
     
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    Pick up a copy of American Road agazine and don't miss another edition!
     
    Find a Store: http://dld.bz/AMRoadRetailOutlets
    Preview the current issue: http://americanroadm...previewmag.html
    American Road Magazine: http://www.americanroadmagazine.com/
     
  3. Foster Braun
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    Click here to download…
     
    We all have a trusted steed that carries across the American Road whether it’s a vintage VW Campervan or the latest Hybrid. But there is group of travelers with a peculiarly deep passion for an historic American Road vehicle: The GMC Motorhome. From 1974-1978 GMC made the only RV produced by a major automaker. Of the 12,000 made, 8000 are believed to still be on the road.
     
    The GMC motorhome was not a home stuck on top of a truck frame; it was intentionally built as a motorhome from the ground up. In addition the community of devoted fans who keep these spectacular RV’s going are unique among car groups. According to our guest, Dave Silva, an avid RV fan and chronicler of the GMC Motorhome, “There is a cottage industry of specialized vendors, all on a first name basis. They drive these 40 year old coaches all over the country under the protection of the 'Blacklist'."” This is a story not only of a remarkable house on wheels but also of the passionate people who have kept them running on the American Road.
     
    Check out Dave Silva's homepage.
     
     

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    This Podcast is Brought to you by:


    For more than forty years, Vandalia has been celebrating their history with the Grande Levee’ on the grounds of the Vandalia Statehouse, which is the Oldest State Capitol Building in Illinois. This year, 2013, the event will be held September 27 & 28. To coincide with the Grande Levee’, the Vandalia Tourism Commission will be hosting their Annual Harvest Festival downtown Saturday, September 28th with fun for every member of the family. For more information, contact Vandalia Tourism Center at 618-283-2728 or email tourism@vandaliaillinois.com.
     


    This podcast is also brought to you by the Illinois Lincoln Highway Coalition. This fall plan a visit to the amazing corn maze tribute to the Lincoln Highway Centennial at Jonamac Orchard in Malta, Il. The first Seedling Mile of this historic highway was laid in Malt. Test your orienteering skills and try not to get lost in the 10 acre corn maze with 3 miles of pathways and two bridges. The maze opens Saturday, August 31 and runs through late October. Find out more about this colossal corn curiosity by visiting jonamacorchard.com/

    ########





     

    Pick up a copy of American Road magazine and don't miss another edition!


     

    Find a Store:
    http://dld.bz/AMRoadRetailOutletsPreview the current issue: http://americanroadm...previewmag.html
    American Road Magazine: http://www.americanroadmagazine.com/


     

    Pick up a copy of American Road magazine and don't miss another edition!


     

    Find a Store:
    http://dld.bz/AMRoadRetailOutletsPreview the current issue: http://americanroadm...previewmag.html
    American Road Magazine: http://www.americanroadmagazine.com/


  4. Foster Braun
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)- James Schulte: Toy Treasure Trove
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    Nothing brings back the wonderful moments of our childhood like seeing our favorite toy, whether it was a classic Barbie doll or one of the original GI Joe's. The city of Wheeling, W.Va is home to a treasure trove of those great memories all collected in Millers Kruger Street Toy and Train Museum. Alan Miller and his son assembled toys dating from the 1890's along with an impressive collection of trains and housed them in a Victorian mansion. The National Road column of the American Road 2010 Winter issue tells the full story of their collection.
     
    On this American Road Trip Talk I speak with James Schulte. The curator of this remarkable museum is in his mid-20's and many of the toys and trains are quite a few times his age but James has a tremendous grasp of the collection and a vision for its future.

    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)- James Schulte: Toy Treasure Trove
    Click here to listen...
    Click here to download...
     
    This American Road TripTalk is brought to you by Houma, LA. You are invited to discover a truly unique and authentic Cajun Mardi Gras celebrated nowhere else but in Houma, Louisiana - in the heart of the Cajun Wetlands. Festivities start February 25 and run to Mardi Gras on March 8, 2011. For more information check out their flier.
    Feel free to comment, criticize and correct our podcasts because we are always looking to make them better. In particular, if you know of anyone who might make a good subject for these podcasts, please let me know in the comments section. See you soon on the great American Road.
  5. Foster Braun
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)– Rosslyn Schulz: Bowl Plaza
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    The drawing above is the architect's vision of a unique restroom behind the Grassroots Arts Center in Lucas, Kansas. Our guest Rosslyn Schulz, who is the Executive Director of the Center, shared about the loving and artful details that are going into this project which should be complete in the spring of 2011. You can find more about themany facets of the project by visiting their website in particular, check out the beautiful paper mosaics. Read the full story about this project in the Tunnel Vision column of the autumn issue of American Road magazine available at major bookstores, newsstands and at Americanroadmagazine.com.When you visit our homepage be sure to check all the features we offer from trip planners to special bargains and product reviews.
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)– Rosslyn Schulz: Bowl Plaza
    Click here to listen
    Click here to download
    This podcast is sponsored by the City of Joliet, IL who want you to include their Festival of Trees from Nov. 22-28, 2010 on your holiday itinerary.
     
    Feel free to comment, criticize and correct our podcasts because we are always looking to make them better. In particular, if you know of anyone who might make a good subject for these podcasts, please let me know in the comments section.
    See soon on the great American Road.
  6. Foster Braun
    American Road Trip Talk (Podcast)– Nathan Schock: Corn Power
    Click here to listen... (11:00)
    Clickhere to download...

    It's highway robbery every time we pull up to the gas station. Whether it's political turmoil in the Middle East or pure greed on the part of oil companies, there always seems to be an excuse for jacking up the prices Well there are some folks in the heartland of America working to break that dependence on foreign fuels at a company called POET, a company formed in the mid-80's to turn corn into ethanol, liquid fuel that has been included in most of our gasoline.
    In one of our past TripTalks I interviewed Tom Holm who went on a 10,000 mile Eco Trek across the country in vehicles powered solely by cellulosic ethanol, derived from farm waste like corn husks, leaves and stubble. (EcoTrek TripTalk ) POET provided Tom with that fuel and in this podcast I speak with Nathan Schock their PR director about producing ethanol to break our addiction to foreign fuels.
     
    American Road Trip Talk (Podcast)– Nathan Schock: Corn Power
    Click here to listen... (11:00)
    Click here to download...





    Summer fun has arrived in Wisconsin. Whether it's waterskiing, camping, festivals or relaxing at the lake, you can find your fun at
    TravelWisconsin.com. And bring all the fun Wisconsin has to offer to your fingertips by downloading the free Travel Wisconsin iPhone or Android app.










    Feel free to comment, criticize and correct our podcasts because we are always looking to make them better. In particular, if you know of anyone who might make a good subject for these podcasts, please let me know in the comments section. See you soon on the great American Road.









    Get your American Road
    iPhone and iPad app today.

  7. Foster Braun
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast): Erika Nelson. Think Big!
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    This podcast is sponsored by the City of Joliet, IL who want you to include their Festival of Trees from Nov. 22-28, 2010 on your holiday itinerary.
     
    Hi, it's good to be back with our American Road Podcasts, conversations with authors, fellow travelers and interesting people we meet along the way. My name is Foster Braun and I have had the pleasure of doing these interviews over the last five years but this is the first chance that I have had to get back to doing them regularly. In my professional life I have been a radio broadcaster for over 35 years on Detroit's Great Voice of the Great Lakes,WJR-AM, where I have been doing The Internet Advisor for the last 13 years.
     
    I'm delighted to start the new series with Erika Nelson, a regular contributing editor to the Think Big column. It was fun to find out Erika's driving passion (pardon the pun) to collect the smallest replicas of the largest features she can find on the American Road. She has quite a collection and in the interview you will find how she started her fascination with the huge roadside attractions that led to her rolling collection. You can see Erika's treasures at The World's Largest Things.
     
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)–Erika Nelson. Think Big!
    Click here to listen...
    Click here to download...
     
    This podcast is sponsored by the City of Joliet, IL who want you to include their Festival of Trees from Nov. 22-28, 2010 on your holiday itinerary.
     
    Feel free to comment, criticize and correct anything you like about our podcasts because we are always looking to make them better. In particular, if you know of anyone you think might make a good subject for these podcasts, please let me know in the comments section.
     
    See soon on the great American Road.
  8. Foster Braun
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)– Abe Clymer: Honest Abe
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    This week's guest pictured above with his model is Lewis "Abe" Clymer of Vandalia, Il. Truth is that Lewis, or "Abe" as everyone has known him for more than the last half century, is the spitting image of Abraham Lincoln and learned at an early age to put it to good use. He is a Lincoln interpreter and you can find out more about him in the National Road column of the Autumn 2010 edition of the American Road Magazine. American Road magazine is available at major bookstores, newsstands and at Americanroadmagazine.com. When you visit our homepage be sure to check all the features we offer from trip planners to special bargains and product reviews.
     
     
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)– Abe Clymer: Honest Abe
    Click here to listen...
    Click here to download...

    This podcast is sponsored by the City of Joliet, IL who want you to include their Festival of Trees from Nov. 22-28, 2010 on your holiday itinerary.
     
    Feel free to comment, criticize and correct our podcasts because we are always looking to make them better. In particular, if you know of anyone you think might make a good subject for these podcasts, please let me know in the comments section.
     
    See soon on the great American Road.
     
    Foster Braun is a veteran broadcaster in Detroit, Michigan where he currently hosts the weekly technology program The Internet Advisor on WJR 760 AM.
  9. Foster Braun
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)– Jay Allen: Painting the Town
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    Click here to download…
     

     
     
    The picture above is one of 43 murals created by Jay Allen our guest on this week's American Road Trip Talk. Jay's sign painting company, Shaw Craft Signs collaborated with renowned muralist Bill Hueg to produce these historic gems in Illinois cities under a grant obtained by the Illinois Lincoln Highway Coalition. During our interview Jay will give you the full history of the mural pictured above in Dixon, IL and its connection with a very important American president. Visit the full gallery of these historic murals to see more of these beauties. Jay is affiliated with the Wall Dogs, a national organization of artists who gather to paint murals at cities all over the US.
     
    View the full story of this project in the Tunnel Vision column of the Autumn issue of our American Road magazine available at major bookstores, newsstands and at Americanroadmagazine.com. When you visit our homepage be sure to check all the features we offer from trip planners to special bargains and product reviews.
     
     


     
    This Podcast is Brought to you by:


    For more than forty years, Vandalia has been celebrating their history with the Grande Levee’ on the grounds of the Vandalia Statehouse, which is the Oldest State Capitol Building in Illinois. This year, 2013, the event will be held September 27 & 28. To coincide with the Grande Levee’, the Vandalia Tourism Commission will be hosting their Annual Harvest Festival downtown Saturday, September 28th with fun for every member of the family. For more information, contact Vandalia Tourism Center at 618-283-2728 or email tourism@vandaliaillinois.com.
     


    This podcast is also brought to you by the Illinois Lincoln Highway Coalition. This fall plan a visit to the amazing corn maze tribute to the Lincoln Highway Centennial at Jonamac Orchard in Malta, Il. The first Seedling Mile of this historic highway was laid in Malt. Test your orienteering skills and try not to get lost in the 10 acre corn maze with 3 miles of pathways and two bridges. The maze opens Saturday, August 31 and runs through late October. Find out more about this colossal corn curiosity by visiting jonamacorchard.com/
     
    #####

    Pick up a copy of American Road agazine and don't miss another edition!
     
    Find a Store: http://dld.bz/AMRoadRetailOutlets
    Preview the current issue: http://americanroadm...previewmag.html
    American Road Magazine: http://www.americanroadmagazine.com/
  10. Foster Braun
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast) - Ann Wescott: Cave Caroling
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    Click here to download
     

     
    It is one of the most unique Christmas events on the American Road. Imagine the songs of the season echoing through Mother Nature's concert hall...underground. That is exactly what is going on from Dec. 3 through the 5th at The Cave of the Mounds National Natural Landmark in southwest Wisconsin. Ann Wescott from the Cave of the Mounds joins me to talk about the concert experience and the remarkable natural wonders of the Cave of the Mounds which have been drawing thousands of travelers who visit the caves just west of Madison, Wisconsin. Check out their website for more information about the Caves and the series of concerts.
     
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast) - Ann Wescott: Cave Caroling
    Click here to listen...
    Click here to download
     
    This podcast is sponsored by the City of Joliet, IL who want you to include their Festival of Trees from Nov. 22-28, 2010 on your holiday itinerary.
    Feel free to comment, criticize and correct our podcasts because we are always looking to make them better. In particular, if you know of anyone who might make a good subject for these podcasts, please let me know in the comments section.
    See soon on the great American Road.
  11. Foster Braun
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast) - Cat Bonciu: Buchanan Tavern
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    Click here to download
     

    Leave it to an American immigrant to give President James Buchanan his due. Catalin Bonciu is the proprietor of the Buchanan Pub and Hotel in Mercersberg, Pennsylvania along Highway 16. This is part of the Buchanan Trail highlighted in our fall 2010 edition of the American Road Magazine. Cat bought the historic building that once belonged to James Buchanan's father and lovingly restored and improved it. As you can hear in the interview, Cat Bonciu has a genuine respect for this unheralded president and his restoration is both a labor of love and respect. Find out more about the Tavern and Hotel by visiting the James Buchanan Hotel website.
     
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast) - Cat Bonciu: Buchanan Tavern
    Click here to listen
    Click here to download
     
     
    See soon on the great American Road.
  12. Foster Braun
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)- Sharon Tesch: Super-Sized Santa
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    Click here to download...

     
    The little village of Christmas, Michigan was built on a dream in the 1930's that was almost wiped out by fire. But the spirit of Christmas is alive and well on the shores of Lake Superior and is home to the world's tallest Santa Claus. My guest Sharon Tesch is the proprietor of Santa's Workshop where Christmas reigns all year 'round. We will be talking about the history ofthis resilient little community in just a moment. By the way you better be careful about being naughty or nice around Christmas because this Santa can see a long way.
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)- Sharon Tesch: Super-Sized Santa
    Click here to listen...
    Click here to download...
    This podcast is brought to you by Chautauqua County, New York where they invite you to: Engage your spirit and Excite your mind at Chautauqua Institution, a century old vacation learning destination. Learn the power of laughter at the Lucille Ball - Desi Arnaz Center. Energize your soul with lake and snowsports. Request a travel guide and journey to this land of renewal. Call 866-908-4569 or visit TourChautauqua.com.

    Feel free to comment, criticize and correct our podcasts because we are always looking to make them better. In particular, if you know of anyone who might make a good subject for these podcasts, please let me know in the comments section.
    See you soon on the great American Road.
  13. Foster Braun
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast) Rick Jones: Pancake Challenge
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    Click here to download
     

     
    It might not look like much but only 18 people in the last 25 years have been able to down a plate of pancakes like this in 30 minutes or less. I interviewed Rick Jones, the owner of the Seiad Valley Cafe which sits near the middle of State Hwy 96 that winds its way from Yreka, CA on the southeast to O'Brien, OR. on the northwest. It is one of the few places that still remembers the "Lost State of Jefferson" which was featured in the Fall 2010 issue of the American Road Magazine. Rick Jones is a rugged western mountain man with few words but a quick wit as you will find out when you listen to the interview.
    This podcast is sponsored by Chautauqua County, NY. Request a travel guide and journey to this land of renewal. Call 866-908-4569 or visit www.tourchautauqua.com
     
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast) Rick Jones: Pancake Challenge
    Click here to listen...
    Click here to download
     
    Feel free to comment, criticize and correct our podcasts because we are always looking to make them better. In particular, if you know of anyone who might make a good subject for these podcasts, please let me know in the comments section.

    See you soon on the great American Road.
  14. Foster Braun
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)- Wayne Bronner: Bronner's CHRISTmas Wonderland
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    Click here to download...

     
    Over 50 years ago a man named Wally Bronner, the son of German immigrants, bucked family tradition and opened Bronner's CHRISTmas Wonderland, a Christmas store that has become a holiday landmark throughout the Midwest. In this edition of the American Road Triptalk, you'll meet Wayne Bronner, the founder's son, and learn how Wally's dream grew into a Christmas Wonderland the size of nearly two football fields. For more information on the items carried by Bronner's or the store itself visit Bronner's CHRISTmas Wonderland online.

    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)- Wayne Bronner: Bronner's CHRISTmas Wonderland
    Click here to listen...
    Click here to download...
    This American Road Triptalk is sponsored by the city of Vandalia, IL which invites you to the "Lincoln Remembered" Weekend Feb.11 and 12,2011 to enjoy a special weekend of historic speeches, a Lincoln Victory Ball and so much more. For more information call (618) 283-1152 or email Joann Sasse Givens at econdev@vandaliaillinois.com. Visit the Vandalia website for visitor information.

    Feel free to comment, criticize and correct our podcasts because we are always looking to make them better. In particular, if you know of anyone who might make a good subject for these podcasts, please let me know in the comments section.
     
    See you soon on the great American Road.
     
     
  15. Foster Braun
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)- JoAnn Sasse Givens: Lincoln Remembered Weekend
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    Click here to download...

    Abraham Lincoln, one of America's greatest presidents, spent much of his early political career in the old state capitol in Vandalia, Illinois. So it's fitting that the Vandalia would be the site for the "Lincoln Remembered" Weekend. Feb. 11th and 12 Vandalia is going to be the focus of multiple historical anniversaries including the remembrance of Lincoln's Farewell Address and the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War and a Lincoln Victory Ball. Joanne Sasse Givens, Vandlia's Director of Economic Development and Tourism, gives us all the details in our podcast. If you are a Civil War buff or an admirer of Abraham Lincoln, this is a must see event.
    For more information call Connie Bolyard - 618.283.4206; Mary Cole -618.283.1161; or Mary Truitt - 618.283.153

    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)- JoAnn Sasse Givens: Lincoln Remembered Weekend
    Click here to listen...
    Click here to download...
    This American Road Triptalk is sponsored by the city of Vandalia, IL which invites you to the "Lincoln Remembered" Weekend.
    Friday, February 11th, 2011
    11:00 am - Community Reading of the Lincoln Farewell Address at the Vandalia Statehouse.
    7:00pm -11:00pm "Lincoln Victory Ball" Civil War Era Ball at Vandalia Moose Lodge, 328 South 3rd Street. General public, re-enactors of all ages invited. Those in costume North or South attend for free, not in costume $5 admission. Salt Caller with music and dances of the time period. Refreshments will be served
    Saturday, February 12th, 2011
    11:00 am - Roll Call of Fayette County Veterans of the Civil War at the Old State Cemetery (Moose Lodge if inclement weather) Persons with ancestors who fought North or South are encouraged to answer the roll call for their relatives.
    9:30 am- 1:45pm Open House -The National Road Interpretive Center - with new exhibits.
    2:00pm- Presentation on Lincoln by Dan Guillory, noted scholar, author, and lecturer at the Statehouse. Free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.
    Sponsors: Vandalia Historical Society, WKRV: The Curve, First National Bank, Dr. Brian & Laura Dossett, Vandalia Tourism Commission, The Leader Union.
     
    Feel free to comment, criticize and correct our podcasts because we are always looking to make them better. In particular, if you know of anyone who might make a good subject for these podcasts, please let me know in the comments section.
     
    See you soon on the great American Road.
  16. Foster Braun
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)- Ann King: Virtual Route 66
    Click here to listen...
    Click here to download...
     

     
    Some call it The Mother Route 66, others America's Main Street. Bobby Troup encouraged a footloose, post-war America to "Getyour kicks on Route 66". But until now no one has ever created a way for people to enjoy this great highway without ever driving a mile on it. I'm talking about a Virtual Tour ofRoute 66. In 2010 three graduate students, Ann King, Tina Lai and Marc Meyer from California State University East Bay campus created "The Mother Road Multimedia Experience". The project was described in the Tunnel Vision column of the Winter 2010 edition of The American Road Magazine.
    My American Road TripTalk guest is Ann King, one of those bright young students, who combined the best of cutting edge technology with a 1969 Volkswagen Beetle to provide a virtual tour of a portion of Route 66. You won't want to miss a moment of our conversation. Watch this Virtual Route 66 Video.
     
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)- Ann King: Virtual Route 66
    Click here to listen...
    Click here to download...
     
    This Podcast is Brought to you by:


    For more than forty years, Vandalia has been celebrating their history with the Grande Levee’ on the grounds of the Vandalia Statehouse, which is the Oldest State Capitol Building in Illinois. This year, 2013, the event will be held September 27 & 28. To coincide with the Grande Levee’, the Vandalia Tourism Commission will be hosting their Annual Harvest Festival downtown Saturday, September 28th with fun for every member of the family. For more information, contact Vandalia Tourism Center at 618-283-2728 or email tourism@vandaliaillinois.com.
     


    This podcast is also brought to you by the Illinois Lincoln Highway Coalition. This fall plan a visit to the amazing corn maze tribute to the Lincoln Highway Centennial at Jonamac Orchard in Malta, Il. The first Seedling Mile of this historic highway was laid in Malt. Test your orienteering skills and try not to get lost in the 10 acre corn maze with 3 miles of pathways and two bridges. The maze opens Saturday, August 31 and runs through late October. Find out more about this colossal corn curiosity by visiting jonamacorchard.com/

     
    #####

    Pick up a copy of American Road agazine and don't miss another edition!
     
    Find a Store: http://dld.bz/AMRoadRetailOutlets
    Preview the current issue: http://americanroadm...previewmag.html
    American Road Magazine: http://www.americanroadmagazine.com/


  17. Foster Braun
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)- Steve Sidlecki: Christmas Leg-acy
    Click here to listen...
    Click here to download...

    "You'll shoot your eye out!" was probably the most famous line in The Christmas Story but the infamous leg lamp that became the movie's most famous prop. As a matter of fact it was a homemade version of the Leg Lamp that served as the inspiration and one of the main means that led, former Navy pilot, Brian Jones to buy the house in 2005 and recreating the magic of Ralph and Randy's cozy home. The full story behind the rebirth of the Christmas Story House can be found in the Grand Old US Six column written by Joe Hurley for the Vol. 8 Winter 2010 issue of the American Road Magazine. In this TripTalk Steve Sidlecki, the executive director of The Christmas Story House and Museum fills in more of the details. Visit The Christmas Story House just three miles off of US 6 as it passes through Cleveland, Ohio or online at their homepage to find the times for visiting and some of the merchandise from the movie. Just imagine how you'd look in one of those pick bunny pajamas!
    By the way, Peter Billingsley, who played Ralph in the original movie still has a place in his heart for the story. "In 2010 he returned to his 'A Christmas Story' roots as executive director of 'A Christmas Story The Musical.' played as a pre-Broadway engagement in Kansas City where it was the most successful engagement in the history of the Kansas City Repertory Theatre. The producers will continue developing the production at the 5th Avenue Theatre this year with the goal of taking the production to Broadway in 2011.
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)- Steve Sidlecki: Christmas Leg-acy
    Click here to listen...
    Click here to download...
     
    This American Road TripTalk is brought to you by Houma, LA. You are invited to discover a truly unique and authentic Cajun Mardi Gras celebrated nowhere else but in Houma, Louisiana - in the heart of the Cajun Wetlands. Festivities start February 25 and run to Mardi Gras on March 8, 2011. For more information check out their flier.
    Feel free to comment, criticize and correct our podcasts because we are always looking to make them better. In particular, if you know of anyone who might make a good subject for these podcasts, please let me know in the comments section. See you soon on the great American Road.
  18. Foster Braun
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)- Jim Jones: Waldmire's Wheels
    Click here to listen...
    Click here to download...
     

    Route 66 has been dubbed the Mother Road and Bob Waldmire has to have been one of her favorite sons. A Tunnel Vision article in the Winter 2010 issue of American Road Magazine describes some of the unique vehicles that Waldmire used while creating his incredibly detailed pen and ink images of the American Road along Route 66 . In this American Road Trip Talk, JimJones, the director of the Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum in Pontiac, IL shares fond memories of an eccentric but passionate artist and the vehicles that took him from Illinois to the great Southwest. Visit the webpage for the Route 66 Association of Illinois for more details on the Mother Road and Bob Waldmire.
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)- Jim Jones: Waldmire's Wheels
    Click here to listen...
    Click here to download...
     
    This American Road TripTalk is brought to you by Houma, LA. You are invited to discover a truly unique and authentic Cajun Mardi Gras celebrated nowhere else but in Houma, Louisiana - in the heart of the Cajun Wetlands. For more information check out their flier.

    Feel free to comment, criticize and correct our podcasts because we are always looking to make them better. In particular, if you know of anyone who might make a good subject for these podcasts, please let me know in the comments section. See you soon on the great American Road.
  19. Foster Braun
    American Road TripTalk (podcast) - Ron Gustafson: Penguin Power
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    When the weatherperson wants you to know just how cold things can get in case you were starting to feel sorry for yourself, they would probably say, "But in Cut Bank, Montana it's 40 degrees below zero." In our Winter 2010 Holiday Road Tour we visited the Glacier Gateway Inn and Plaza in Cut Bank where former owner Ron Gustafson had built the largest penguin inthe world to mark the coldest spot in the nation. But you will never guess where this thick skinned cowboy now hangs his hat: Galveston Island, TX where he has opened an RV Park. Looks like he traded in his snow shoes for flip flops and long underwear for shorts.
     
    American Road TripTalk (podcast) - Ron Gustafson: Penguin Power
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    We want to thank the city of St. Joseph, MO for sponsoring this AmericanRoad TripTalk. Make history this yearand bring the family to St Joseph, Missouri and make it a vacation they'llnever forget. In St. Joseph you'll discover 150 years of history where thePony Express began and Jesse James ended. Experience history, makehistory...go to stjomo.com.
    Feel free to comment, criticize and correct our podcasts because we are always looking to make them better. In particular, if you know of anyone who might make a good subject for these podcasts, please let me know in the comments section. See you soon on the great American Road.
  20. Foster Braun
    American Road Triptalk (Podcast)-Kim Koga: Neon in the Spotlight
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    Starting in the1920's the art of neon lighting lit up American roadways and towns from coast to coast. In many ways it was arevolutionary as the digital artistry of today. Curiously, neon lighting made its way into the US from Europe by jumping across the country and landing in Los Angeles, California. So it's fitting that the City of the Angels should be the home of the Museum of Neon Art (MONA)and on this AmericanRoad TripTalk we'll visit with Kim Koga, the museum's director to find out about a splendid display of neon art at the beginnings of one of America's great highways, Route 66. The city of West Hollywood celebrated its 25 anniversary in 2010 by displaying four of the biggest neon signs from the museum collection. After you listen to the interview with Ms. Koga, watch this video which describes the collaboration between MONA and West Hollywood on Santa Monica Blvd. where the famous Mother Road, Route 66 began.
     
    American Road Triptalk (Podcast)-Kim Koga: Neon in the Spotlight
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    Click here to download...
     
    We want to thank the city of St. Joseph, MO for sponsoring this American Road TripTalk. Make history this year and bring the family to St Joseph, Missouri and make it a vacation they'll never forget. In St. Joseph you'll discover 150 years of history where the Pony Express began and Jesse James ended. Experience history, make history...go to St. Joe, MO
    Feel free to comment, criticize and correct our podcasts because we are always looking to make them better. In particular, if you know of anyone who might make a good subject for these podcasts, please let me know in the comments section. See you soon on the great American Road.
  21. Foster Braun
    American Road TripTalk (podcast) - Tom Holm: Eco Trek Plant Power
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    Tom Holm is a man on a mission to change the way Americans travel our favorite roadways without becoming enslaved to foreign oil based fuels. In early 2011, Tom completed a 10,000-mile Eco Trek from coast to coast and back powered solely by cellulosic ethanol. It's a fuel derived from cornhusks, stalks, and other plant byproducts and is currently produced by a company named POET. We'll hear more about them in a future podcast; but today's conversation with Tom talks about the incredible event that turned his life around 180 degrees to plant based fuels and is now leading him on a quest that could have profound impact on the defenses of our nation. The Cellulosic Ethanol used in the EcoTrek Tour is produced by POET. You can follow Tom's entire Eco Trek journey through his blog. Find out more about the Eco Trek Foundation.
    American Road TripTalk (podcast) - Tom Holm: Eco Trek Plant Power
    Click here to listen...
    Click here to download...
    We want to thank the city of St. Joseph, MO for sponsoring this American Road TripTalk. Make history this year and bring the family to St Joseph, Missouri and make it a vacation they'll never forget. In St. Joseph you'll discover 150 years of history where the Pony Express began and Jesse James ended. Experience history, make history...go to St. Joe, MO
    Feel free to comment, criticize and correct our podcasts because we are always looking to make them better. In particular, if you know of anyone who might make a good subject for these podcasts, please let me know in the comments section. See you soon on the great American Road.
  22. Foster Braun
    My linkAmerican Road TripTalk (podcast) - Costas Schuler: Mercedes Pens
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    Click here to download...

     
    Like any dedicated artist Costas Schuler wants to make his mark on the world. The only difference is that Costas wants to make that mark with used up pens, thousands of them, in all sizes and colors and all of them glued to his 1981 Mercedes 300D, better known simply as the Mercedes Pens. Costas has his sights set much higher than his ingeniously colorful ride and you'll hear more about what made Costas simply known as ThePen Guy and the big dream he has for the future in his adopted home state of California: Pentopia! You can help Costas realize his dream by mailing used pens to PO Box 994, Forestville, CA 95436 or visit his The Pen Guy Website
     
    I want to thank the Heritage Tractor Adventure for sponsoring this American Road TripTalk. Join over 300 vintage tractors led by Max Armstrong as they travel the scenic byways of the I&M Canal Heritage Corridor from June 11 - 15. Visit HeritageTractorAdventure.com. Illinois ...Mile After Magnificent Mile.
    American Road TripTalk (podcast) - Costas Schuler: Mercedes Pens
    Click here to listen...
    Click here to download...
     
    Feel free to comment, criticize and correct our podcasts because we are always looking to make them better. In particular, if you know of anyone who might make a good subject for these podcasts, please let me know in the comments section. See you soon on the great American Road.
  23. Foster Braun
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)- Dee Helming: Fallen Shoe Tree
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    The stretch of desert highway between Austin and Fallon, Nevada was home to one of the rarest trees in Americana: the "shoe tree." Actually there are a number of these huge trees draped with Doc Martins, tennies, work boots and all manner of used shoes all across the country. Rather than being treated as smelly, eyesores, they have become beloved roadside shoe shrines. That is why it is so sad that around New Years 2011 tragedy struck the shoe tree on the loneliest stretch of America highway, US 50 near Middlegate, Nevada. Dee Helming of the Austin, Nevada Chamber of Commerce shares the story of the enormous shrine to former footwear and its role in the lonely desert community.
     
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)- Dee Helming: Fallen Shoe Tree
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    Click here to download...
     
    Thanks to the Heritage Tractor Adventure for sponsoring this American Road TripTalk. Join over 300 vintage tractors led by Max Armstrong as they travel the scenic byways of the I&M Canal Heritage Corridor from June 11 - 15. Visit HeritageTractorAdventure.com. Illinois ...Mile After Magnificent Mile.
     
    Feel free to comment, criticize and correct our podcasts because we are always looking to make them better. In particular, if you know of anyone who might make a good subject for these podcasts, please let me know in the comments section. See you soon on the great American Road.
  24. Foster Braun
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)- Dr. Steve Cumbaa: Extinction Theatre
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    Click here to download...

     
    Our spring 2011 edition of the American Road Magazine is centered around dinosaurs and their many manifestations along the highways of North America. One of our articles presented The Extinction Theatre, part of the Talisman Energy Fossil Exhibition, housed in the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa, Canada.
     
    Our guest for this American Road TripTalk is Dr. Steve Cumbaa, a paleontologist at the museum and one of the scientific advisors who helped create The Extinction Theatre. He'll describe the show which is actually a truly unique multi-media experience that chronicles the passing of the great thunder lizards and the dawn of a new age for the earth ruled by mammals. Even the museum itself is something of an architectural exhibition!
     
    American Road Trip Talk (podcast)- Dr. Steve Cumbaa: Extinction Theatre
    Click here to listen...
    Click here to download...
     
    Thanks to the Heritage Tractor Adventure for sponsoring this American Road TripTalk. Join over 300 vintage tractors led by Max Armstrong as they travel the scenic byways of the I&M Canal Heritage Corridor from June 11 - 15. Visit HeritageTractorAdventure.com. Illinois ...Mile After Magnificent Mile.
     
    Feel free to comment, criticize and correct our podcasts because we are always looking to make them better. In particular, if you know of anyone who might make a good subject for these podcasts, please let me know in the comments section. See you soon on the great American Road.
  25. Foster Braun
    American Road Trip Talk (Podcast)– Barbara Wynns: Weeki Wachee Woes
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    Weeki Wachee Springs, is a natural wonder innorthwest Florida where "mermaids" have performed under water for millions ofvisitors since it opened shortly after WWII. Right now the very existence of this extraordinary attraction is in danger. Like every state in the union, Florida is trying to save money by cutting costs and outsourcing state services. Weeki Wachee became a Florida state park in 2008 and has been extremely successful since then. But now Florida is threatening to privatize certain park services which many feel would threaten the quality of those services and damage a park that is working perfectly well the way it is.
     
    Our guest, Barbara Wynns, became a mermaid at the historic park in the late 60's and still performs regularly as one of the "veteran" mermaids. She is passionate about saving Weeki Watchee from the changes that Florida wants to make. As of this writing (May 3, 2011) Florida is still planning to lump Weeki Wachee together with all the other state parks, cut services and privatize others. Barbara and the other friends of Weeki Watchee declare that the park is making a profit and is working just fine the way it is. So Florida, leave Weeki Wachee alone! If it isn't broken; don't fix it. Urge Florida lawmakers to leave Weeki Wachee Park out of the current package of changes to Florida state parks! American Road Trip Talk (Podcast)– Barbara Wynns: Weeki Wachee Woes
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    Click here to play Weeki Wachee video http://youtu.be/tBZ_mwINHVA




    Chautauqua County New York. Come to Chautauqua in June and get ready for summer with a new hobby or skill during Chautauqua in June, a celebration of vacation and lifelong learning, June 3-23, 2011. The three-week festival is packed with more than 50 workshops held in indoor and outdoor settings throughout Chautauqua County, New York - The World'sLearning Center.

    Feel free to comment, criticize and correct our podcasts because we are always looking to make them better. In particular, if you know of anyone who might make a good subject for these podcasts, please let me know in the comments section. See you soon on the great American Road.
     
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