beckyrepp

AMERICAN ROAD®: The Music Box Podcast: The next time you feel a bit thick around the waist, think of Oliver Hardy and Stan Laurel, too. Comedy film buffs can have a few nostalgic laughs and burns some calories by visiting the 133-step stairway in Los Angeles made famous in Laurel and Hardy's 1932 Oscar-winning shore The Music Box on their next trip. Join American Road staff as they interview Vincent Brook a founder of the annual Music Box Steps Festival. You will find the podcast at: http://americanroadmagazine.com/programming/programming.html If you would like to subscribe to our podcasts it is now possible, thanks in great part to American Roadie Denny Gibson. Denny worked with our intern (Amber) to set up a working RSS feed on our podcast page. Thanks Denny! --I apologize for not posting news of this podcast earlier. If you read the article in the Summer 07 issue (or even if you didn't) we invite you to learn more about this piece of American History--turned tourist attraction. Happy listening and safe travels! Becky Repp becky@americanroadmagazine.com 1-877-285-5434 x1

Hi gang. Glad to see you are making my dream of an RV topic on this Forum come true! This is the highlight of my day. RE: some places to camp -- there are sometimes even FREE spots to camp that you'll come across - limited if any services, but, awefully peaceful. I recall one in Oregon on a route traveling to catch I-5 (we were traveling US 101, but, had to get back on the superslab to make it back home in time to get back to work). There's nothing quite like that camp fire smell in the evening (almost as good as a neon sign!). Gotta run -- the next issue goes to press this week so no time to spare! I'll watch my e-mail inbox for your posts over the next few days. Becky

I'm so glad to see that you're getting the help you sought on American Road's Forum! I'll put in a few cents worth -- you may certainly take it or leave it. Re: Arches -- they have some great hikes that are led by Rangers. I highly recommend them. You get to learn about some of the different types of arches and rock formations -- and they take you to some unique spots that you might not otherwise see. Some words of wisdom -- Pack water and food to take in the park. A water bottle that attaches to a waist band and a pack w/ some high protein snacks served us quite well during our trip to Arches. There aren't too many services -- and when your out hiking -- there are NONE. I'm trying to recall the details of I-84. I think it was difficult to find services in Utah and in Oregon. Construction was terrible when we were thru -- and it seemed that any buildings that were around were pretty much closed (perhaps it had to do with the construction). Anyway, re: weather on the road. That is definitely a concern. You might check out the link below to find out problems along your final route: http://www.weather.com/activities/driving/...ghway%20weather One word about Kansas - make sure it isn't tornado season. The last time we were thru Kansas it was like being transported into the movie The Wizard of Oz. We had Tornado warnings and couldn't make it to our hotel because all the roads were flooded -- even the Interstate was closed due to flooding. The morning after the storm many of the two-lane highways remained flooded. I recall how badly I felt for the cow that we passed that morning. she was standing more than knee deep in a pool of water - munching on the leaves of a tree! KTSOTR is right about the Pacific Northwest. You'll have the time of your life! Oh - one more thing -- if you would like to get e-mails when there are new posts under various headings on the Forum there is a way to do it. You'll find instructions under Technical Help. If you can't find them or still have difficulty let one of the Moderators or Pat and Jennifer know. We're all happy to help! Gotta get back to work. We've got to get the next issue out! Best, Becky Repp

Hey gang. Hope everyone is having a relaxing weekend. I was just in the photo gallery. I am ashamed to admit, I haven't been able to visit it much the past few months. However, I thoroughly enjoyed my virtual road trip! Thanks to everyone for sharing your fabulous photos! I think that your artistic talents are all highlighted quite nicely in the gallery. Thanks for taking the time to post the pics so that we can all enjoy them! Becky

Welcome to American Road magazine's Forum! We're thrilled to have you join our great community of road trip enthusiasts. You pose a very difficult question. The choice along I-40 traces much of US Route 66. If you've never traveled it - you must. It should probably be required of every US citizen! If you are interested, I (or any of our other members) would be happy to make recommendations regarding places to visit along the way). If you end up going through Denver and into Salt Lake City and take I-84, I believe (if memory serves) there was a long stretch without services. Some beautiful stretches, very scenic. But, every time we traveled through there - we hit road construction. And, it wasn't your 'typical' road construction. We were actually driving in dirt - Interstate travel slowed to a crawl on a very curvy stretch of road. (This was a few years back -- but, it might be worth checking the state DOT to see what routes have a lot of construction. This might also help you narrow down your choices) There are a number of routes you could go - each offering different experiences. I know our Forum members will give you great suggestions. Dream well and drive safely on the American Road! Becky Repp General Manager becky@americanroadmagazine.com

FYI, I'm pleased to announce that anyone who didn't make the tour may pick up Brian's books through American Road's on-line store. becky

Hi all. I've posted in the Roadside Attraction Sub-forum about the current status of Weeki Wachee. The time to fight to save this classic roadside attraction is now. Please read the post, and if so inclined, send comments to the entities specified on the Weeki Wachee website (a link to their site w/ detailed information is included in my post). Thanks, Becky

Hello everyone, I heard from Weeki Wachee - and was informed the best thing that we could do to help preserve this landmark attraction is to write an e-mail to four entities/individuals. The e-mail addresses are available at the following link: http://mermaid.weekiwachee.com/index.php?m...MN_position=6:6 following a recount of the saga to save Weeki Wachee. I hope you will join American Road magazine in expressing your thoughts to save the "only city of live mermaids!" We don't want Weeki Wachee to be another bulldozed attraction. Best, Becky Repp

Thursday's party celebrating our 1st Birthday was indeed an excellent idea - thank you Denny! Thomas and I were pleased to see so many in attendance. I've got a list of the folks in attendance -- I THINK that I captured all the names. Provided I can track down all the attendees non-virtual addresses- a small token of thanks will be sent from AR. KTSONR - not sure what office you saw me go into with those plush carpets and leather chairs, but, it wasn't mine! I'm looking forward to next year to learn who will be our top posters! Until then, let's have some more fun on the American Road! Best, Becky

Hi Gang - This came into my inbox today. I've written to John to learn what, if anything, we can do to help. I will let you know what I learn. It would be just terrible to lose this classic roadside attraction. For those of you not familiar with Weeki Wachee - listen to the American Road magazine interview with one of Weeki Wachee's mermaids: https://americanroadmagazine.com/programmin...rogramming.html. Becky FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE State Agency Terminates Weeki Wachee’s Lease Mermaid attraction operating month to month Contact: John Athanason, Marketing/Public Relations Director (352) 596-2062 ext. 11 ~office (352) 427-3299 ~cell WEEKI WACHEE, FL- The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD), recently informed Weeki Wachee Springs attraction in a letter that they have terminated the 30 year lease the attraction had with the state governed agency. For more information, please see attached release. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Below is for those who have asked to be updated on the recent developments on the case of SWFWMD vs. Weeki Wachee Springs. Just a quick update on the SWFWMD saga. We received a letter from SWFWMD Assistant General Counsel Joseph Ward that the 30 year lease between Weeki Wachee Springs and SWFWMD has been terminated as of May 10, 2007. The letter goes on to say that we are now on a month to month basis. The reason for the termination according to the letter was due to an injunction that we filed against the District in court, to stop them from unlawfully terminating the lease. As everyone knows, a landlord has several steps that have to go through before terminating a lease and SWFWMD is attempting to go from the first step to the last step, skipping everything in between. This was the reason for our injunction against SWFWMD. We were asking the court to stop SWFWMD from illegally terminating the lease. This gave Mr. Ward the opportunity to say "Ah ha! Gotcha!." A case management hearing is set for August 16, 10 a.m., at the Hernando County courthouse. Motions for summary judgement that SWFWMD filed, will be heard and the possibility of this case being resolved could happen on that day... Good or bad. As we have for the past four years since taking over the attraction, we have paid our lease payments on time, and will continue to do so. We continue to ask the question. What issues remain with the District? The only issue SWFWMD had four years ago was that they wanted the attraction to fix the $1-million worth of neglect when Mr. Farrar was managing Weeki Wachee. Farrar refused and threatened to turn in the keys and walk away. When we took over the attraction on August 1, 2003, we began the overwhelming task of curing the neglect. With the generous help of the public, ALL neglect was cured for a fraction of the estimated cost! The attraction is no longer in a state of neglect. All lease payments have been paid in a timely manner. Further improvements have been made to the park. The parks attendance and revenue have been increasing every year and is now showing a profit. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to call me at the number listed below. I will keep all of you informed of further details as soon as possible. Again we would like to thank everyone for the tremendous support the park has received worldwide! We continue to get emails on a daily basis from people all over expressing their desire to see that the attraction continue the way it has for the past 60 years. It is your support that has kept Weeki Wachee going thus far. Your voice has been, and will continue to be the difference. Kindest regards, John Athanason Marketing & Public Relations Director _Weeki Wachee Spring The only city of live Mermaids!_ (http://mermaid1.weekiwachee.com/index.php?&MMN_position=1:1) (352) 596-2062 ext. 11 (352) 427-3299 ~Cell **********************************

Hey Thanks for reminding me of this big event! I LOVE cake! Yes, let's do something special to celebrate. A chat would be fun. When shall we have the chat? B

Greetings everyone, Pat - you do speak for Thomas and I when we say hats off to the members of the American Road Forum. This is a fabulous group of people. Our hats go off to you and Jennifer for the great work that you - and our crew of moderators - do to keep this forum up and running smoothly and courteously. We view the Forum as our family of friends that enjoys discovering the treasures along our back roads. Our philosophy at American Road is that there are enough negative things going on in this world - and we do not need or want to promote or endorse that type of activity. Keeping this Forum fun for everyone is a PRIORITY for us. IF EVER there is a problem that a member believes needs to be addressed - PLEASE let that topic moderator, Pat and Jennifer, and myself know about it. (This is how you can do your part to keep this an enjoyable place to come and share experiences). Sometimes, one or more of the above individuals might be unavailable (e.g. out of town, etc.) and not able to manage the situation immediately. But, rest assured, we will do our best to act swiftly to remedy any problem. This might be a good time to remind everyone to review our Speed Limits. My humble thanks to EVERYONE on this Forum for your participation, enthusiasm, and positive attitude. YOU make the American Road® Forum a great place to visit! Now - let's get back to having fun and Get the Show on the Road! Best, Becky Repp becky@americanroadmagazine.com 1-877-285-5434 x1

Alex, I have to come up with the Trivia Questions for the Newsletter, so, I'll leave that to you and others on the Forum. However, I liked your question. And, am impressed with seeing the correct answer from citybo1986. So, I will donate a prize for this contest. Cityboy1986 - please contact me and I'll provide you with a list of prizes from which you may choose one. Dream well and drive safely on the American Road! becky@americanroadmagazine.com

Welcome to the American Road Forum! We're glad to have you aboard. We'll look forward to hearing about your road travels. Best, Becky Repp

Hi Dave, Glad you enjoyed the poll. Have you seen the article in the magazine regarding the Top Road Songs? If not, I believe you would enjoy it. Best, Becky

Wow! What a great boost you've all given this forum! Kudos to each of you. I enjoyed everyone's photos and posts. I hope to see more action here from all of you. I also hope this encourages more members to share news, info, and pics of roads and tunnels found during their explorations. Becky

AMERICAN ROAD®: Hare It Is! Henry's Rabbit Ranch: Meet Rich Henry of Henry's Rabbit Ranch and Tourist Information Center—an establishment home to rabbits, and camels, and Volkswagens (Oh My!) on an old alignment of Route 66 in Staunton, Illinois. https://americanroadmagazine.com/programmin...rogramming.html You may listen to the audio streaming file by clicking on the yellow play button (this is the recommended method for dial-up). Or, you may download the MP3 file. Happy listening! Becky Repp becky@americanroadmagazine.com

Hello Paul and Keith, Welcome to our American Road® Forum. We're glad you joined us. As you've already seen, we have a wonderful group. Best, Becky

Don't know if you've checked out our Resources page on the American Road website -- but, it has quite a compilation of Road sites, in addition to other travel resources that might prove useful on a road trip (how to locate the nearest emergency vet, where to find the nearest hospital, etc.). The link to the Resources page is: https://americanroadmagazine.com/resources/resources.html As long as they meet the criteria, we can post the links to the other sites and make it a really useful repository of road sites for everyone. Any sites that you would like to nominate for posting there would be reviewed by our intern (non other than Jennifer's daughter, Amber - a future road scholar!) and posted. I'll get back to you in another post on the best way to get the nominated site information to Amber (I need to talk with her and Jennifer first to see what will work best). Keep those ideas coming! B

Today is the last day to enter the American Road® Trip Sweepstakes for a chance to win free lodging and some great meals along the Illinois National Road. Don't miss this chance! See details below: ------------

Outstanding! We'll be here to support you & will look forward to you jump starting some action on that Forum. B

Rick, I know that I've enjoyed the photos that you've posted very much! Don't hesitate to volunteer to be a moderator. We'd love to have you do so! Moderators don't need to be subject experts in the area they offer to moderate -- just being someone interested in that topic qualifies you. A moderator's duty includes - and I believe that Pat and Jennifer have a more 'formal' description: a) Try to keep discussion going in that Forum (keep an eye out for news on that subject and post something maybe once/month minimum on that topic). Make sure the speed limits/guidelines are followed and if they aren't either 1) address the issue if comfortable doing so, or 2) notify Pat, Jennifer, or myself. c) Promoting the American Road® Forum. That said, I think you'd be a great moderator for Bridges and Tunnels - we can have Pat and Jennifer set you up right away. Thanks for volunteering! And, to answer your question regarding your first issue of your subscription - your issue is scheduled to mail with the second mailing of the Summer 07 issue (in the second half of July). I checked our records and it looks like we received your subscription on the 6th of June (the cutoff for the initial mailing of the Summer issue was roughly one week prior to that). Let me know if I may answer any other questions. Becky

Thanks so much! You have an awesome site. You take some incredible photos. Becky

Hi. I apologize for the delay in getting back to you regarding your question. But, I wanted to have a conversation with Pat and Jennifer so that we could have a brainstorming session to try to figure out where we really need some assistance. We talked for a few hours last night. Below, you will find our help 'wish list.' 1) Two or three individuals to serve on a welcoming committee of sorts (the concept was actually brought up by you, "Keep the Show on the Road." And, we are very much in favor. The folks on this committee would attempt to ensure that anyone new who posts receives positive reinforcement/feedback on their first few posts. 2) Assistance with the technical aspects of running the Forum. Sometimes we encounter technical challenges that someone else with technical savvy may already know how to address. We could use a volunteer or two whom we can contact to troubleshoot issues. 3)A few more individuals to volunteer to moderate some of the topics that do not have an assigned moderator. 4) Help spreading the word about American Road & the American Road Forum. This could be done in multiple ways - in addition to ways members have already mentioned (eg. giving gift subscriptions, etc. - which we definitely appreciate!): a) Forum members could post something positive about the American Road Forum on other appropriate Forums - maybe once a week. b)Send an e-postcard from your American Road Forum gallery to family & friends. c)Forward the American Road e-newsletter to a friend who might enjoy it. d)Add a link to the American Road website and forum. We do have a resources on our website and if a website meets the guidelines - we'll gladly post a reciprocal link. 5)Ideas for additional contests on the Forum. 6)Volunteer to host a chat, offer suggestions for chat topics, or give us ideas for guests. We may come up with more ideas - but, we thought this was a good start! We look forward to hearing your feedback. Best, Becky

------ Hardly!