beckyrepp

It looks like the cruise was AWESOME! I'm so envious that you were on the road while we were back at the American Road Garage. Thanks for sharing the pics! Becky

Greetings everyone. I have some news. The server on which americanroadmagazine.com resides needs to be upgraded. According to the technicians, we are running out of RAM because of the traffic on our website. If we don't upgrade, we would start experiencing downtime and other nasty little problems. So, within the next 48-72 hours we will reside on a server twice the size of the current one! The transfer of data will require that the information on our website (including the American Road Forum) be backed up and then moved to the new server. We won't experience any downtime, according to the technical staff, as the current server will continue to run until the new server is up and running. However, there will be a four hour window of time from the moment the current Forum information is saved until it is up and running on the new server. What does this mean - that any entries made to the Forum during that four hour time frame will not be moved to the new server. We will make an announcement once we know the exact time and date of the data transfer. Thanks everyone for your patience and understanding during this transition. We hope that this new upgrade will provide you with a more enjoyable experience on the American Road website and Forum. Best, Becky Repp becky@americanroadmagazine.com http://www.americanroadmagazine.com 1-877-285-5434 x1

Hi Tracy, We appreciate your input very much. And, thanks for the compliment! I'll be sure to pass it along. The survey tool set the ages automatically - unfortunately, I don't have any control over that aspect. But, if I can provide feedback to them I will! Best, Becky

Hi Tracy, Thanks so much for taking a moment to provide us with your feedback. Regarding year of birth - that question may give us insight into whether or not American Road appeals to a particular age group or if it appeals to all age groups. From there we determine if we are meeting our goals, or if we need to make adjustments in order to do so. Thanks again for providing us with input. Best, Becky

Much obliged!

I forgot to mention in the e-newsletter that the survey we are currently conducting expires on November 4, 2007. There are only eleven survey questions-it should take no more than 2- 5 minutes of your time. We value your feedback and will use the data from the survey to make improvements to American Road magazine and americanroadmagazine.com. For your convenience, the link to the survey is: http://www.zoomerang.com/survey.zgi?p=WEB2273KXGDF3D Thank you for your input. Best,

Hi there, I'm glad that you like the gift subscription promotion that we have going on. You read correctly, if you buy a gift subscription you do get an extra issue added on to your subscription (as does the gift recipient). We appreciate your enthusiasm and support very much! Becky

GREETINGS FROM THE STAFF AT AMERICAN ROAD! The AMERICAN ROAD staff would like to extend a hearty welcome to all the new subscribers and AMERICAN ROAD FORUM members! We are thrilled to have more road trip enthusiasts join the growing list of AMERICAN ROAD subscribers and online FORUM Group members. Happenings at AMERICAN ROAD magazine: The Autumn 2007 issue mailed. Anyone that subscribed after September 10 will be scheduled for our supplemental mailing of the Autumn 2007 issue - that mails next week. We believe the next issue will help you plan some interesting places to visit on a future road trip! In this edition of the AMERICAN ROAD E-NEWSLETTER YOU WILL FIND: -CUBA, MISSOURI—ROUTE 66 MURAL CITY -AMERICAN ROAD TWO-LANE TRIVIA CONTEST - WINNER -CLASSIFIEDS -SURVEY -ARE YOU SEARCHING FOR A GIFT? -MANY THANKS TO THE ADVERTISERS IN AMERICAN ROAD CUBA, MISSOURI—ROUTE 66 MURAL CITY (click the link below to read the article) http://americanroadmagazine.com/road_news/road_news.html AMERICAN ROAD TWO-LANE TRIVIA The 3rd person that responded to me via e-mail with the correct answer to the trivia question (below) won a copy of "Glass Bottom Boats & Mermaid Tails: Florida's Tourist Springs," by Tim Hollis. Published by Stackpole Books. Retail value: $19.95. Trivia Question: Who's Cadillac is on the cover of the Summer 07 issue of American Road? Answer: The pink classic Cadillac belonged to Elvis. Winner: Marjorie Diebolt from Seaside, Oregon. CLASSIFIEDS CALIFORNIA HISTORIC ROUTE 66 ASSOCIATION is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation, promotion and enjoyment of Historic Route 66 in California. A quarterly newsletter, ROADSIGNS, includes news on events, preservation issues, history, and current Route information in California, along with news and contacts from the other Route 66 states, and is included with annual membership. E-mail: kickinon66@msn.com or visit http://www.route66ca.org for a membership application. GAMBI HILL CABINS offer 12 cabins on ten acres of forest: full kitchens in ten cabins, mini-kitchens--micro, fridge, and coffee pot in the other two. All cabins are separate with private decks, BBQs, and occasional visits from Bigfoot! One mile from Willow Creek, California, on Highway 299. Call 530-629-2701. GRANDE COLONIAL HOTEL LA JOLLA: Situated in the seaside village of La Jolla, the historic Grande Colonial Hotel offers classic European styling in the intimate setting of a boutique hotel. Commanding views of the California coastline, the hotel is ideally located just steps away from miles of beautiful beaches renowned to Southern California. Also within walking distance are world-class shopping, museums and galleries. The hotel features 93 air-conditioned, non-smoking guest rooms and suites with complimentary wired and wireless high-speed Internet access. Heated outdoor pool, valet parking, complimentary USA Today, complimentary bottled water, bathrobes and evening turndown service are just a few of the luxuries guests will enjoy. NINE-TEN Restaurant boasts nationally acclaimed chefs, "Evolving California Cuisine" and an award-winning wine list. With its ideal location, gracious service and environment of extraordinary comfort, the Grande Colonial Hotel provides the ideal destination for travelers to La Jolla. http://www.thegrandecolonial.com/ Grand Canyon Tour Company offers the BEST tours at the BEST price from Las Vegas. http://www.anrdoezrs.net/a374c-7w36LOMQUSP...PMSOP" target= THE RIVER HOUSE in Florence Oregon. Greet the day from the terrace overlooking the beautiful Siuslaw River! The River House is just steps from the unique shops and restaurants of Old Town and five minutes from ocean beaches, the Oregon Dunes and two 18 hole golf courses. Free internet access, cable TV, in room coffee, guest laundry. http:// www.riverhouseflorence.com COOL SPRINGS Mobil Station circa 1926 15 miles west of Kingman Arizona on Old Route 66. History Museum, quality gift shop of art prints, unique gifts, Indian jewelry. Open year round Tuesday-Sunday 9-5PM Museum includes Rolling Stones memorabilia, petroliana, WWII Kingman Airfield, Will Rogers paintings.... check us out....http://www.coolspringsroute66.com. PET STREET MALL: Supplies for the Traveling Pet Available at Low Prices and Free Shipping! http://www.jdoqocy.com/kb102xfnbjm0315974A...64794" target= PHOENIX INN SUITES - Vancouver is conveniently located near the gateway to the scenic Columbia Gorge and Portland International Airport. Our Vancouver hotel has the perfect location for business or leisure travelers. Each morning we feature a delicious, Complimentary Breakfast Buffet. Our staff guarantees a professional friendly service to make your stay most enjoyable. http://phoenixinnsuites.com/<br /> <br /> <br /> TONYCRAIG.NET – Explore the NEW BACKROADS PHOTO COLLECTION! Over 30 new images. Yes, it’s now up on the web for your viewing pleasure. All images individually printed on high quality art paper—and quality inspected by the photographer. Visit<br /> http://www.tonycraig.net. NATIONAL HISTORIC ROUTE 66 FEDERATION. CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE http://www.national66.org Find answers to frequently asked questions about Route 66; Shop for dozens of Route 66 items; Make reservations for Route 66 events; Look through the Route 66 photo and vintage postcard galleriesl; Join the National Historic Route 66 Federation. ELK MEADOW VACATION VILLAGE is "the best place to stay in Redwood National Park." Open during construction with a Pre-Grand Opening Special of $199.00 a night for an authentic Redwood Logger's cabin with 3 bedrooms 2 baths, a fully equipped kitchen and in-house laundry area. Just a few steps from elk in the front yard and redwood trees all around. (707) 488-2602. RAND MCNALLY: The new Harley-Davidson Ride Atlas (2nd Edition) is fully-loaded with motorcycle-friendly maps, rides, and resources. http://www.jdoqocy.com/7166at0px-EHFJNLIOEGFJNLLMH" target= WORLD TRAVELER: 10% off storewide and Free shipping on orders over $100 - Save on luggage and travel gear at WorldTraveler.com. http://www.dpbolvw.net/8t118sjrfnq4759DB8E...5C9CE" target= *Our advertisers and affiliate programs help support the free information provided via americanroadmagazine.com and our e-newsletter. Be sure to tell them you heard about them through American Road magazine. SURVEY We would like your input. Please take a moment to complete our survey at: http://www.zoomerang.com/survey.zgi?p=WEB2273KXGDF3D If you click on the link to take the survey you will see a greeting. As a token of our appreciation for your feedback, you will be provided with a password to access our Autumn 2007 Digital edition of AMERICAN ROAD in the greeting. Thank you! ARE YOU SEARCHING FOR A GIFT? Search no more. American Road is the perfect gift that will be enjoyed all year long! We can even e-mail you a personalized gift note that you can immediately print out and wrap. No waiting in line, no hassles. AND, if you order a gift subscription,YOU and the gift RECIPIENT will each receive an additional FREE issue of American Road. Order today by calling toll-free 1-877-285-5434, or order on-line (http://www.americanroadmagazine.com/subscribe/subscribe.html#online). Now that's a great gift for yourself, too! We also now have GIFT CERTIFICATES (available in $5.00 increments)! They may be used by the recipient to purchase subscriptions, back issues, or any item in the Hitching Post. These may be purchased on-line from our store using PayPal. And, don't forget all the great gift ideas advertised in AMERICAN ROAD and on our new website! Be sure to visit our NEW on-line store at http://americanroadmagazine.com/catalog/. Choose from hundreds of items. And, from now through November 30, 2007 we are offering FREE shipping within the continental United States for orders of $100 or more. Individuals who place an order exceeding $50 in merchandise will receive a FREE gift with purchase (Your choice of an AMERICAN ROAD travel mug, an AMERICAN ROAD pewter key chain, or an AMERICAN ROAD pewter pin. Be sure to visit http://americanroadmagazine.com/advertising/adv_request.html for our list of advertisers offering great gift and travel ideas. Be sure to tell them you saw it in AMERICAN ROAD! WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU We welcome your correspondence and questions. Have you paid a recent visit to one or more of the places mentioned in a previous issue of AMERICAN ROAD? We want to hear about it. We love receiving your cards, letters and e-mails. You may send us a letter or e-mail. Send letters via US mail to: American Road PO Box 46519 Mt. Clemens, MI 48046 You may send e-mails to becky@americanroadmagazine.com. (Letters and e-mail may be published in an upcoming issue of AMERICAN ROAD and may be edited for style and available space.) ARE THERE ANY SPECIFIC HIGHWAYS OR AUTO TRAILS THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO READ ABOUT IN AMERICAN ROAD? Let us know. We review reader input when planning our feature schedule. MANY THANKS TO THE ADVERTISERS IN AMERICAN ROAD They help make AMERICAN ROAD possible. When you patronize them be sure to tell them you saw them in AMERICAN ROAD. Now, for your convenience, you can obtain your FREE travel information from our advertisers—no stamps, no long distance charges, no need to visit multiple websites—simply visit our NEW Request for Advertiser Information Card at: http://americanroadmagazine.com/advertising/adv_request.html ADVERTISERS GIVE YOUR CUSTOMERS THE GREEN LIGHT—advertise in American Road. (National/State Tourism/Eastern Regional Advertisers contact the Advertising Eastern Regional Office -The McNeill Group (1-800-394-5157 or via e-mail at nniklauski@americanroadmagazine.com); Western Regional Advertisers contact Dick Bublitz, at 1-877-285-5434 x31 for information on this affordable advertising option). ADVERTISERS Abraham Lincoln Library & Museum 423-869-6235 http://www.lmunet.edu/museum/index.html Alton Regional CVB 800-ALTON-IL http://www.visitalton.com American Road Magazine Berwyn, Ill. 708-788-8100 http://www.visitoakpark.com/ Bowling Green CVB 800-326-7465 http://www.visitbgky.com California Route 6 Tourist Association none http://www.route6tour.com Chautauqua County VB (NY) 866-908-ILNY http://www.tourchautauqua.com City of West Wendover (Nev.) 866-299-2489 http://www.westwendovercity.com Cool Springs Museum/Gift Shop 928-ROUTE66 http://www.coolspringsroute66.com Dekalb County (Ind.) CVB 877-833-3282 http://www.dekalbcvb.org Elizabethtown, Ky. 800-437-0092 http://www.touretown.com Evanston, Wyoming Gallup (N. Mex.) Development Comm. 800-242-4282 http://www.gallupnm.org Gilmore Car Museum 269-671-5089 http://www.gilmorecarmuseum.org Heritage Corridor CVB (Ill.) 800-926-CANAL http://www.heritagecorridorcvb.com Hodgenville (Ky.) Main Street 270-358-3411 http://www.laruecountychamber.org Hudson Valley (N.Y.) Tourism 800-232-4782 http://www.travelhudsonvalley.org Hurley, Wisc. 866-340-4334 http://www.hurleywi.com Illinois Route 66 Heritage Project 866-378-7866 http://www.illinoisroute66.org Janesville (Wis.) CVB 800-48-PARKS http://www.janesvillecvb.com Kenai, Alaska Peninsula Tourism 800-535-6324 http://www.kenaipeninsula.org Kokomo, Indiana 800-837-0971 http://www.visitkokomo.org Litchfield, Ill. 217-324-5253 http://www.cityoflitchfieldil.com Macoupin County (Ill.) 217-854-7727 http://www.macoupincountyonline.net Manitowish Waters, Wisc. 888-626-9877 http://www.manitowishwaters.org Merrill Area (Wis.) 877-907-2757 http://www.merrillchamber.com Minocqua, Wisc. 800-44-NORTH http://www.minocqua.org Missouri Tourism 800-519-1300 x493 http://www.visitmo.com Montgomery County CVB 800-866-3973 http://www.crawfordsville.org Motorcycle 101 Munger Moss Motel 417-532-3111 http://www.mungermoss.com National Road Assn. Of Illinois 888-268-0042 http://www.nationalroad.org Nebraska US Route 6 Tourist Association 402-773-0222 http://www.route6tour.com Nevada Silver Trails http://www.nevadasilvertrails.com Noble County CVB (Ind.) 877-202-5761 http://www.visitnoblecounty.com North Central Idaho Travel Association 877-364-3246 http://www.northcentralidaho.info Oregon-California Trails Assn. 888-811-6282 http://www.octa-trails.org Oshkosh (Wis.) CVB 877-303-9200 http://www.oshkoshcvb.org Ouachita Springs Region Arkansas Pennsylvania Route 6 Tourist Association 87-PAROUTE6 http://www.paroute6.com Pioneer Historic Byway 888-201-1063 http://www.pioneerhistoricbyway.org Plagues and Pleasures on the Salton Sea http://www.saltonseadocumentary.com Pontiac, Ill. 800-835-2055 http://www.il66redcarpetcorridor.org/pontiac.html Pony Express Territory (Nev.) 888-359-9449 http://www.ponyexpressnevada.com/hwy50 Roadworks 928-289-5423 http://www.roadworksroute66.com Route 66 DVD by Paccom Films http://www.paccomfilms.com Route 66 Hotel and Conference Center 217-529-6626 http://www.route66hotel.com Route 66: The Television Series http://www.route66tvseriesbook.com Schoodic National Scenic Byway 202-667-7131 http://www.schoodicbyway.org Seaway Trail Inc. 800-SEAWAY-T http://www.seawaytrail.com Southeast Idaho Pioneer Country 888-201-1063 http://www.visitidaho.com Stevens Point/Plover (Wis.) 800-236-4636 http://www.stevenspointarea.com Stoughton, Wisconsin 608-873-9712 http://www.stoughtonwi.com Tony Craig Art Ink, Inc. none http://www.tonycraig.net US Route 6 Tourist Association none http://www.route6tour.com Wausau Wisconsin 888-WI-VISIT http://www.visitwausau.com Waushara County (Wis.) none http://www.whereupnorthbegins.com White Pine (Nev.) 775-289-8877 http://www.whitepinechamber.com Wisconsin Highway 51 866-HWY51-WI http://www.explorehwy51.com Yellowstone Trail Association 800-236-4636 http://www.yellowstonetrailwi.com PARK PLACE Your curbside calendar - to submit your events for the calendar please use our new Calendar Event Submission Form on our new website at https://americanroadmagazine.com/calendar/c...ndar_submission. Due to the high volume of listings we receive, calendar listings are now made available through our new website at: http://americanroadmagazine.com/calendar/calendar.html IS IT TIME TO RENEW/SUBSCRIBE TO AMERICAN ROAD? A batch of renewal notices will be mailed in the next few weeks. If you just mailed in your renewal form with payment, it is possible that the next renewal letter may cross your payment in the mail. Please disregard the notice if that is the case. You may now renew or subscribe on line. Simply go to the following link: http://americanroadmagazine.com/subscribe/subscribe.html You may also subscribe or renew by calling our toll-free number at 1-877-285-5434 x1. If we are assisting another caller, it will roll over to voice mail—so please leave us a message. We are always happy to call you back. DREAM WELL AND DRIVE SAFELY ON THE AMERICAN ROAD! You received this message because you provided your address to Mock Turtle Press—publisher of AMERICAN ROAD magazine. We use your e-mail to periodically provide you with information (subscription renewals, announcements, surveys, etc.) We do not sell e-mail addresses. If you wish to be removed from the list to receive future e-mail newsletters from us please e-mail becky@americanroadmagazine.com.

The Poodle Dog is great! We used to eat there. The building has changed -- but, the sign looks the same. Becky

Enjoyed the post alot! Thanks for sharing Pat. I bet the National Road Association would love to see it, too. B

You mean go back to work, right? Sleep is something that I rarely get!

Hi Alex, It should arrive any day now. If you don't have it by the end of the week, let me know. b Hi Dave, Glad you are enjoying the issue! When you get back to Kitchen Little, let us know. We'll look forward to hearing about your experience. B

Oh, and another BTW. Jennifer or Roadmavern, would I be breaking a rule if I decided when I sell a map, etc on Ebay to give those who post on AR a discount that I note in the Ebay posting? Just another thought. Keep the Show on the Road! Hi there. Great resources! Thanks again for sharing. Re: the question of breaking a rule - I don't think so. . . at least not an AR rule. You might need to check Ebay's rules, however. becky

Mobilie - Thanks for subscribing! We hope you enjoy every issue. Alex, we appreciate the compliment. You've given me an opportunity to take a moment to remind everyone to please let us know if you relocate. And, if you perchance miss an issue due to relocation, we will send out a replacement. (Same thing goes if a copy gets lost in the mail). You are all are very important to us. Becky

Thanks for sharing these wonderful Autumn drives. We'd love to hear from everyone. So, how about it? What's YOUR favorite Autumn road trip? Becky

Thought everyone might enjoy the following article: http://www.forbestraveler.com/luxury/ameri...ives-story.html Becky

And do we (American Road) have a historic road curriculum guide available for elementary school teachers? Know any former teachers here on the forum? Does anyone have postcards, maps, photos to include? Well, I’m babbling...but thanks for the great tip! Keep the Show on the Road! Hi all-- Glad you brought this up (the teacher's curriculum idea). This is actually one of the activities that we plan for the American Road Foundation. If there are any teachers on the Forum that would like to participate on the task force, please let me know. I anticipate that work should start on this in the next two or three months. More to come on the Foundation. Becky

Well, I don't think you call this paranormal (at least not our experience). . . but. . . When Thomas was researching the article on Point Pleasant, WV, that ran over a year ago, we went into the area called TNT. The TNT area is where several Moth Man sightings were reported. It certainly met all criteria necessary for 'spooky.' It was overgrown, had murky water, abandoned buildings, you name it. If I were a Moth Man, it's definitely where I would hang out! Becky

In response to your question, I've prepared a list of FAQ's about the American Road Digital Edition. I hope this helps! Let me know if I may answer any other questions. Becky What is AMERICAN ROAD Digital??AMERICAN ROAD Digital is a vivid replica of the print edition of AMERICAN ROAD. It offers an experience very much like the print magazine plus many additional benefits, such as online searching, and printing. Please note that AMERICAN ROAD Digital only requires Adobe Acrobat Reader to be able to access the electronic edition—giving you instant access to your entire AMERICAN ROAD collection! What are the benefits of a digital subscription??Immediate Availability Worldwide: Instantaneous delivery of AMERICAN ROAD to all AMERICAN ROAD subscribers worldwide. Ability to Print Articles: You may print out the entire issue or a single article for your personal use or to share with a friend.?Searchable: Search a single Volume or across your entire collection? Access 24/7: You can view your digital issues anywhere you can access the web.?As a subscriber, you will receive an email notification with each new issue alerting you that the digital edition of AMERICAN ROAD is available. To access the digital edition, simply click on the link within the email. It's that easy!?For questions regarding your subscription, please contact our customer service department at sales@americanroadmagazine.com.com.?? Are you still doing your print edition??Yes, we still have a print edition. AMERICAN ROAD Digital is simply an option. How do I purchase a digital subscription??Subscriptions can be purchased online. Or you can order your digital subscription by contacting our Subscriptions Department at 1-877-285-5434 x1 or at 206-369-5782 between the hours of 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time. Online orders: Digital subscription only: https://americanroad.magazinemanager.com/su...e=Digital_Issue Print edition: http://americanroadmagazine.com/subscribe/subscribe.html Digital & print subscription (US) https://americanroad.magazinemanager.com/su..._print_combo_us How do I add digital to my subscription??If you are a current subscriber to AMERICAN ROAD you can get a digital subscription at $5.00 for one year or $8.00 for two years. Please click https://americanroad.magazinemanager.com/su...ource=AdDigital to order online, or call toll-free at 1-877-285-5434 x1 or contact sales@americanroadmagazine.com.com. Do I pay more for digital access??No. In fact a one-year digital subscription costs $6 less than a print subscription. If you purchase a combination print & digital subscription you save even more. May I get just the digital subscription??Yes, you can select a digital subscription, a print subscription, or a digital & print subscription. You'll find these options below: Digital subscription only: https://americanroad.magazinemanager.com/su...e=Digital_Issue Print edition: http://americanroadmagazine.com/subscribe/subscribe.html Digital & print subscription (US) https://americanroad.magazinemanager.com/su..._print_combo_us May I get both a print and a digital subscription??Yes, subscribers can select a digital subscription, a print subscription, or a combination digital & print subscription. By purchasing a combination print and digital subscription you save 50% on the digital subscription cost. The options are below: Digital subscription only: https://americanroad.magazinemanager.com/su...e=Digital_Issue Print edition: http://americanroadmagazine.com/subscribe/subscribe.html Digital & print subscription (US) https://americanroad.magazinemanager.com/su..._print_combo_us Do I need any special technology for a digital subscription? You only need internet access, a browser, and Adobe Acrobat Reader. Please let us know if you are experiencing any problems or difficulties at becky@americanroadmagazine.com. ?For all other questions please contact subscription services at sales@americanroadmagazine.com or call 1-877-285-5434 x1 or 206-369-5782?between the hours of 10am and 6pm Eastern Time. May I see a sample of AMERICAN ROAD Digital??Visit our sample issue page at http://americanroadmagazine.com/sample_iss...mple_issue.html for some examples. May I print out articles from AMERICAN ROAD Digital??Yes, you may print out individual articles for personal use or to share with a friend rather than sharing your print issue. Printed copies are for single-use only. How can I give a gift of AMERICAN ROAD??Click below to order a gift digital subscription of AMERICAN ROAD.?We will send a gift notification and the current digital issue to your recipient(s). Digital subscription only: https://americanroad.magazinemanager.com/su...ital_issue_gift When does my subscription start and when do I receive my first issue?? If you choose to add digital access to your subscription, it begins IMMEDIATELY upon payment receipt.

GREETINGS FROM THE STAFF AT AMERICAN ROAD! The AMERICAN ROAD staff would like to extend a hearty welcome to all the new subscribers and AMERICAN ROAD FORUM members! We are thrilled to have more road trip enthusiasts join the growing list of AMERICAN ROAD subscribers and online FORUM Group members. Happenings at AMERICAN ROAD magazine: The Autumn 2007 issue recently mailed. Anyone that subscribed after September 10 will be scheduled for our supplemental mailing of the Autumn 2007 issue - that mails late October. If you signed up for our new ALL DIGITAL issue of AMERICAN ROAD, we plan to e-mail the digital edition shortly. We believe the next issue will help you plan some interesting places to visit on a future road trip! WEBSITE NEWS: RSS Feed, by Denny Gibson. Maybe you've noticed your browser lighting up an orange or blue icon when you visit the AMERICAN ROAD Magazine site or maybe you've spotted, and wondered about, an RSS button. Both of those are visual invitations to subscribe to our new RSS (Really Simple Syndication) feeds. There are two of them. One comes from the AMERICAN ROAD Magazine Forum and includes the newest topics. It's perfect for adding to personalized portal pages like iGoogle and My.Yahoo. The other is AMERICAN ROAD Trip Talk and, while it can be used in portals, its real purpose is to deliver audio podcasts, like that fun chat with Rich Henry, to services such as iTunes and Juice. The feeds are new and aren't yet showing up in all of the searches where we'd like. Yahoo's doing pretty good and the others will catch up but folks in the know (that's you) can always use the URL to subscribe directly. Most of the portals have a place where a feed address can be entered directly. You can get the URLs from those icons and buttons but you don't have to. They're right here. The URL for the forum feed is http://www.americanroadmagazine.com/forum/...rssout&id=1 and the one for the podcast is http://www.americanroadmagazine.com/americ...d_trip_talk.xml. Need a little help? Just ask the friendly folks over at the forum. A NEW PODCAST is available for your listening pleasure: AMERICAN ROAD: Neon Cowboy: What neon cowboy sign is the tallest in the land? How tall is he? Who made him? Where, precisely, is he? Tune in to American Road® magazine's interview with Chris Melville, City Manager of West Wendover City, Nev. to learn the answers! - September 2007. Check it out! http://americanroadmagazine.com/programming/programming.html REMEMBER TO ENTER THE AMERICAN ROAD TRIP SWEEPSTAKES! Sponsored by Wisconsin Highway 51. Click here for details: http://americanroadmagazine.com/sweepstakes/sweepstakes.html In this edition of the AMERICAN ROAD E-NEWSLETTER YOU WILL FIND: -HOTEL SATISFACTION SURVEY RESULTS -AMERICAN ROAD TWO-LANE TRIVIA CONTEST -CLASSIFIEDS -FALL FOLIAGE CRUISE -ARE YOU SEARCHING FOR A GIFT? -COFFEE BREAK -WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU -MANY THANKS TO THE ADVERTISERS IN AMERICAN ROAD HOTEL SATISFACTION SURVEY RESULTS-- J.D. Powers and Associates recently released their 2007 North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Study(SM). Now in its 11th year, the study measures overall hotel guest satisfaction across six hotel segments: luxury, upscale, mid-scale full service, mid-scale limited service, economy/budget and extended stay. Seven key measures are examined within each segment to determine overall satisfaction: reservations, check-in/check-out, guest room, food and beverage, hotel services, hotel facilities, and costs and fees. The following hotel brands rank highest in guest satisfaction within their respective segments: -- Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton -- Upscale: Embassy Suites Hotels -- Mid-Scale Full Service: Hilton Garden Inn -- Mid-Scale Limited Service: Drury Inn & Suites -- Economy/Budget: Microtel Inns & Suites -- Extended Stay: Homewood Suites In this year's study, issues with staff attitude and staff service are among the most frequently reported problems by hotel guests, particularly by luxury hotel guests. With more than one in five guests reporting a problem with staff service, this issue is the most frequently mentioned problem among luxury hotel guests who say they experienced a significant problem during their stay. The key differentiator between a good hotel experience and a truly outstanding experience is the quality of service delivered by the hotel staff. Staff-related problems are controllable, and significant problems with staff make it difficult, if not impossible, to deliver great service and high levels of satisfaction. Hotels have dedicated tremendous resources for renovations and improvements of their properties in efforts to improve satisfaction, but all of this may be for naught if service excellence is remiss. The study finds that 97 percent of hotel guests say they feel either safe or very safe traveling within North America. The study also finds that providing a non-smoking environment continues to be important to hotel guests. Overall, 82 percent of guests say they prefer a smoke-free hotel environment-including public areas and guest rooms-up from 79 percent in 2006. In response to this preference among guests, some hotel brands now offer completely smoke-free environments. The 2007 North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Index Study is based on responses gathered between June 2006 and June 2007 from 47,634 guests who stayed in a hotel between May 2006 to June 2007. Luxury Segment Overall Satisfaction Index (Based on a 1,000-point scale) The Ritz-Carlton 854 JW Marriott 831 Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts 821 Loews Hotels 818 Luxury Segment Average 815 Fairmont Hotels & Resorts 808 W Hotels 798 InterContinental Hotels & Resorts 777 Included in the study, but not ranked due to small sample size are: Le Meridien Hotels and Resorts, Millennium Hotels and Resorts, Park Hyatt Hotels, Sofitel and St. Regis Hotels & Resorts Upscale Segment Overall Satisfaction Index (Based on a 1,000-point scale) Embassy Suites Hotels 805 Renaissance Hotels & Resorts 801 Marriott Hotels & Resorts 795 Omni Hotels 794 Hyatt Hotels & Resorts 789 Westin Hotels & Resorts 789 Hilton Hotels 787 Upscale Segment Average 784 Sheraton Hotels & Resorts 770 Doubletree 769 Delta Hotels 765 Wyndham Hotels & Resorts 763 Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts 759 Radisson Hotels & Resorts 753 Mid-Scale Full Service Segment Overall Satisfaction Index (Based on a 1,000-point scale) Hilton Garden Inn 806 Courtyard 789 Four Points by Sheraton 755 Wyndham Garden Hotels 752 Mid-Scale Full Service Segment Average 745 Best Western 738 Holiday Inn 737 Clarion 733 Quality 724 Ramada Inn/Plaza 723 Howard Johnson Hotels/Plaza 672 NOTE: Novotel is included in the study, but not ranked due to small sample size. Mid-Scale Limited Service Segment Overall Satisfaction Index (Based on a 1,000-point scale) Drury Inn & Suites 824 Hampton Inn/Suites 814 SpringHill Suites 800 Wingate Inn 789 Country Inns & Suites 785 Fairfield Inn 776 Mid-Scale Limited Service Segment Average 770 Holiday Inn Express 766 Comfort Suites 760 Sleep Inn 759 La Quinta 756 AmeriSuites 749 AmericInn 747 Baymont Inn & Suites 746 AmeriHost Inn & Suites 742 Comfort Inn 741 Ramada Limited 695 Economy/Budget Segment Overall Satisfaction Index (Based on a 1,000-point scale) Microtel Inns & Suites 743 Red Roof Inn 704 Super 8 Motel 697 Days Inn 688 Howard Johnson Express/Inns 685 Economy/Budget Segment Average 684 Travelodge 676 Motel 6 671 Econo Lodge 655 Rodeway Inn 633 Americas Best Value Inn 628 Knights Inn 621 Included in the study, but not ranked due to small sample size are: America's Best Inns & Suites, Budget Host Inn and Country Hearth Inn Extended Stay Segment Overall Satisfaction Index (Based on a 1,000-point scale) Homewood Suites 815 Residence Inn 809 Staybridge Suites 800 TownePlace Suites 780 Extended Stay Segment Average 778 Candlewood Suites 766 Hawthorn Suites 753 Extended StayAmerica 703 Homestead Studio Suites Hotels 702 Included in the study, but not ranked due to small sample size are: Hyatt Summerfield Suites, MainStay Suites and Studio 6 AMERICAN ROAD TWO-LANE TRIVIA The 3rd person to respond to me via e-mail (becky@americanroadmagazine.com) with the correct answer to the trivia question (below) wins a copy of "Glass Bottom Boats & Mermaid Tails: Florida's Tourist Springs," by Tim Hollis. Published by Stackpole Books. Retail value: $19.95. Trivia Question: Who's cadillac is on the cover of the Summer 07 issue of American Road? FALL FOLIAGE CRUISE If you're anywhere near Mayville, New York this fall, take an afternoon off and embark on a Steamship Adventure, taking you back more then 100 years when steam-power fueled a rising culture of leisure. New owners of The Chautauqua Belle, a steamboat replica built in 1975, are getting her ready for Autumn cruises on Chautauqua Lake. The Chautauqua Belle was built in Mayville, New York and commissioned in 1976 as part of the area's celebration of the nation's bi-centennial. The S.S. Chautauqua Belle is 98 feet long, 18 and 1/2 feet wide, and weighs over 68 tons fully loaded. It is one of only six 100% high-pressure steam powered public vessels operating in all of North America. For more information visit: http://www.chautauquabelle.com/ CLASSIFIEDS CALIFORNIA HISTORIC ROUTE 66 ASSOCIATION is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation, promotion and enjoyment of Historic Route 66 in California. A quarterly newsletter, ROADSIGNS, includes news on events, preservation issues, history, and current Route information in California, along with news and contacts from the other Route 66 states, and is included with annual membership. E-mail: kickinon66@msn.com or visit http://www.route66ca.org for a membership application. Gambi Hill Cabins offer 12 cabins on ten acres of forest: full kitchens in ten cabins, mini-kitchens--micro, fridge, and coffee pot in the other two. All cabins are separate with private decks, BBQs, and occasional visits from Bigfoot! One mile from Willow Creek, California, on Highway 299. Call 530-629-2701. GRANDE COLONIAL HOTEL LA JOLLA: Situated in the seaside village of La Jolla, the historic Grande Colonial Hotel offers classic European styling in the intimate setting of a boutique hotel. Commanding views of the California coastline, the hotel is ideally located just steps away from miles of beautiful beaches renowned to Southern California. Also within walking distance are world-class shopping, museums and galleries. The hotel features 93 air-conditioned, non-smoking guest rooms and suites with complimentary wired and wireless high-speed Internet access. Heated outdoor pool, valet parking, complimentary USA Today, complimentary bottled water, bathrobes and evening turndown service are just a few of the luxuries guests will enjoy. NINE-TEN Restaurant boasts nationally acclaimed chefs, "Evolving California Cuisine" and an award-winning wine list. With its ideal location, gracious service and environment of extraordinary comfort, the Grande Colonial Hotel provides the ideal destination for travelers to La Jolla. http://www.thegrandecolonial.com/ THE RIVER HOUSE in Florence Oregon. Greet the day from the terrace overlooking the beautiful Siuslaw River! The River House is just steps from the unique shops and restaurants of Old Town and five minutes from ocean beaches, the Oregon Dunes and two 18 hole golf courses. Free internet access, cable TV, in room coffee, guest laundry. http:// www.riverhouseflorence.com COOL SPRINGS Mobil Station circa 1926 15 miles west of Kingman Arizona on Old Route 66. History Museum, quality gift shop of art prints, unique gifts, Indian jewelry. Open year round Tuesday-Sunday 9-5PM Museum includes Rolling Stones memorabilia, petroliana, WWII Kingman Airfield, Will Rogers paintings.... check us out....http://www.coolspringsroute66.com. PHOENIX INN SUITES - Vancouver is conveniently located near the gateway to the scenic Columbia Gorge and Portland International Airport. Our Vancouver hotel has the perfect location for business or leisure travelers. Each morning we feature a delicious, Complimentary Breakfast Buffet. Our staff guarantees a professional friendly service to make your stay most enjoyable. http://phoenixinnsuites.com/ TONYCRAIG.NET – Explore the NEW BACKROADS PHOTO COLLECTION! Over 30 new images. Yes, it’s now up on the web for your viewing pleasure. All images individually printed on high quality art paper—and quality inspected by the photographer. Visit http://www.tonycraig.net. NATIONAL HISTORIC ROUTE 66 FEDERATION. CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE http://www.national66.org • Find answers to frequently asked questions about Route 66 • Shop for dozens of Route 66 items • Make reservations for Route 66 events • Look through the Route 66 photo and vintage postcard galleries • Join the National Historic Route 66 Federation. ELK MEADOW VACATION VILLAGE is "the best place to stay in Redwood National Park". Open during construction with a Pre-Grand Opening Special of $199.00 a night for an authentic Redwood Logger's cabin with 3 bedrooms 2 baths, a fully equipped kitchen and in-house laundry area. Just a few steps from elk in the front yard and redwood trees all around. (707) 488-2602 *Our advertisers and affiliate programs help support the free information provided via americanroadmagazine.com and our e-newsletter. Be sure to tell them you heard about them through American Road magazine. HIT THE JACKPOT OF VIP ADVENTURE IN VEGAS AMERICAN ROAD FORUM GROUP If you were a member of the AMERICAN ROAD yahoo group, you’ve automatically been signed up for membership on the AMERICAN ROAD FORUM. If you did not receive a welcome message and login information please let us know—we will be happy to help. If you’ve never participated, now is the time. Share stories with other road enthusiasts. Send FREE e-postcards to your friends. You can sign up for this FREE group when you visit our web site at AMERICANROADMAGAZINE.COM. DID YOU PARTICIPATE IN THE POLE TO VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE ROAD TUNES? If you haven't yet voted, take a minute and let us know your favorite road song. You need to sign in to the American Road Forum to vote. Joining the Forum is FREE! http://americanroadmagazine.com/forum/inde...p;hl=road+songs ARE YOU SEARCHING FOR A LAST MINUTE GIFT? Search no more. American Road is the perfect gift that will be enjoyed all year long! We can even e-mail you a personalized gift note that you can immediately print out and wrap. No waiting in line, no hassles. AND, if you order a gift subscription, you and the gift recipient will each receive an additional FREE issue of American Road. Order today by calling toll-free 1-877-285-5434, or order on-line (http://www.americanroadmagazine.com/subscribe/subscribe.html#online). Now that's a great gift for yourself, too! We also now have GIFT CERTIFICATES (available in $5.00 increments)! They may be used by the recipient to purchase subscriptions, back issues, or any item in the Hitching Post. These may be purchased on-line from our store using PayPal. And, don't forget all the great gift ideas advertised in AMERICAN ROAD and on our new website! Be sure to visit our NEW on-line store at http://americanroadmagazine.com/catalog/. Choose from hundreds of items. And, from now through November 30, 2007 we are offering FREE shipping within the continental United States for orders of $100 or more. Individuals who place an order exceeding $50 in merchandise will receive a FREE gift with purchase. Be sure to visit http://americanroadmagazine.com/advertising/adv_request.html for our list of advertisers offering great gift and travel ideas. Be sure to tell them you saw it in AMERICAN ROAD! COFFEE BREAK, by Christine Martens In the late 1800's, Norwegian immigrants arrived in the Stoughton, Wisconsin area in large numbers, attracted by the availability of work in T.G. Mandt's wagon factory. With the men busy building wagons, local tobacco warehouse owners hired their wives for seasonal tobacco work. The women found the Gunderson Tobacco Warehouse an ideally located place to work, as it was near enough to their homes that they could periodically run home to check on their families, houses, and the meal in progress. While home, the women took a minute to rest and helped themselves to a cup of coffee from the pot always on the stove. With this simple habit, the coffee break began - a brief time to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee before heading back to work. Today, Stoughton celebrates its claim as the birthplace of the coffee break with a day-long festival in August. Events include a collectible car show, an arts and crafts fair, and a "Java Jog" fun run for kids and adults. A variety of entertainment, food stands, and of course, plenty of coffee, are all part of the festival. What better way to commemorate the home of the coffee break than to come to beautiful downtown Stoughton and relax with a cup of coffee. WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU We welcome your correspondence and questions. Have you paid a recent visit to one or more of the places mentioned in a previous issue of AMERICAN ROAD? We want to hear about it. We love receiving your cards, letters and e-mails. You may send us a letter or e-mail. Send letters via US mail to: American Road PO Box 46519 Mt. Clemens, MI 48046 You may send e-mails to becky@americanroadmagazine.com. (Letters and e-mail may be published in an upcoming issue of AMERICAN ROAD and may be edited for style and available space.) ARE THERE ANY SPECIFIC HIGHWAYS OR AUTO TRAILS THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO READ ABOUT IN AMERICAN ROAD? Let us know. We review reader input when planning our feature schedule. MANY THANKS TO THE ADVERTISERS IN AMERICAN ROAD They help make AMERICAN ROAD possible. When you patronize them be sure to tell them you saw them in AMERICAN ROAD. Now, for your convenience, you can obtain your FREE travel information from our advertisers—no stamps, no long distance charges, no need to visit multiple websites—simply visit our NEW Request for Advertiser Information Card at: http://americanroadmagazine.com/advertising/adv_request.html ADVERTISERS GIVE YOUR CUSTOMERS THE GREEN LIGHT—advertise in American Road. (National/State Tourism/Eastern Regional Advertisers contact the Advertising Eastern Regional Office -The McNeill Group (1-800-394-5157 or via e-mail at mg@americanroadmagazine.com). Western Regional Advertisers contact Dick Bublitz, at 1-877-285-5434 x31 for information on this affordable advertising option). ADVERTISER Abraham Lincoln Library & Museum 423-869-6235 http://www.lmunet.edu/museum/index.html Alton Regional CVB 800-ALTON-IL http://www.visitalton.com American Road Magazine Berwyn, Ill. 708-788-8100 none Bowling Green CVB 800-326-7465 http://www.visitbgky.com/ California Route 6 Tourist Association 661-942-3800 http://www.route6tour.com Chautauqua County VB (NY) 866-908-ILNY http://www.tourchautauqua.com/ City of West Wendover (Nev.) 866-299-2489 http://www.westwendovercity.com Cool Springs Museum/Gift Shop 928-ROUTE66 http://www.coolspringsroute66.com Dekalb County (Ind.) CVB 877-833-3282 http://www.dekalbcvb.org/ Elizabethtown, Ky. 800-437-0092 http://www.touretown.com/ Evanston, Wyoming 307-783-6320 Gallup (N. Mex.) Development Comm. 800-242-4282 http://www.gallupnm.org Gilmore Car Museum 269-671-5089 http://www.gilmorecarmuseum.org Heritage Corridor CVB (Ill.) 800-926-CANAL http://www.heritagecorridorcvb.com Hodgenville (Ky.) Main Street 270-358-3411 http://www.laruecountychamber.org/ Hudson Valley (N.Y.) Tourism 800-232-4782 http://www.travelhudsonvalley.org/ Hurley, Wisc. 866-340-4334 http://www.hurleywi.com/ Illinois Route 66 Heritage Project 866-378-7866 http://www.illinoisroute66.org/ Janesville (Wis.) CVB 800-48-PARKS http://www.janesvillecvb.com Kenai, Alaska Peninsula Tourism 800-535-6324 http://www.kenaipeninsula.org Kokomo, Indiana 800-837-0971 http://www.visitkokomo.org Litchfield, Ill. 217-324-5253 http://www.cityoflitchfieldil.com/ Macoupin County (Ill.) 217-854-7727 http://www.macoupincountyonline.net Manitowish Waters, Wisc. 888-626-9877 http://www.manitowishwaters.org/ Merrill Area (Wis.) 877-907-2757 http://www.merrillchamber.com Minocqua, Wisc. 800-44-NORTH http://www.minocqua.org/ Missouri Tourism 800-519-1300 x493 http://www.visitmo.com Montgomery County CVB 800-866-3973 http://www.crawfordsville.org Motorcycle 101 Munger Moss Motel 417-532-3111 http://www.mungermoss.com National Road Assn. Of Illinois 888-268-0042 http://www.nationalroad.org/ Nebraska US Route 6 Tourist Association 402-773-0222 http://www.route6tour.com Nevada Silver Trails http://www.nevadasilvertrails.com Noble County CVB (Ind.) 877-202-5761 http://www.visitnoblecounty.com/ North Central Idaho Travel Association 877-364-3246 http://www.northcentralidaho.info/ Oregon-California Trails Assn. 888-811-6282 http://www.octa-trails.org Oshkosh (Wis.) CVB 877-303-9200 http://www.oshkoshcvb.org/ Ouachita Springs Region Arkansas 501-767-4779 http://search.barnesandnoble.com/booksearc...5137384&z=y Pennsylvania Route 6 Tourist Association 87-PAROUTE6 http://www.paroute6.com Pioneer Historic Byway 888-201-1063 http://www.pioneerhistoricbyway.org/ Plagues and Pleasures on the Salton Sea none http://www.saltonseadocumentary.com Pontiac, Ill. 800-835-2055 none Pony Express Territory (Nev.) 888-359-9449 http://www.ponyexpressnevada.com/hwy50 Roadworks 928-289-5423 http://www.roadworksroute66.com Route 66 DVD by Paccom Films http://www.paccomfilms.com/ Route 66 Hotel and Conference Center 217-529-6626 http://www.route66hotel.com Route 66: The Television Series http://www.route66tvseriesbook.com Schoodic National Scenic Byway 207-667-7131 http://www.schoodicbyway.org/ Seaway Trail Inc. 800-SEAWAY-T http://www.seawaytrail.com/ Southeast Idaho Pioneer Country 888-201-1063 http://www.visitidaho.com/ Stevens Point/Plover (Wis.) 800-236-4636 http://www.stevenspointarea.com Stoughton, Wisconsin 608-873-9712 http://www.stoughtonwi.com Tony Craig Art Ink, Inc. none http://www.tonycraig.net US Route 6 Tourist Association none http://www.route6tour.com Wausau Wisconsin 888-WI-VISIT http://www.visitwausau.com Waushara County (Wis.) none http://www.whereupnorthbegins.com White Pine (Nev.) 775-289-8877 http://www.whitepinechamber.com/ Wisconsin Highway 51 866-HWY51-WI http://www.explorehwy51.com/ Yellowstone Trail Association 800-236-4636 http://www.yellowstonetrailwi.com/ PARK PLACE Your curbside calendar - to submit your events for the calendar please use our new Calendar Event Submission Form on our new website at https://americanroadmagazine.com/calendar/c...ndar_submission. Due to the high volume of listings we receive, calendar listings are now made available through our new website at: http://americanroadmagazine.com/calendar/calendar.html IS IT TIME TO RENEW/SUBSCRIBE TO AMERICAN ROAD? Check the address label on you latest issue of AMERICAN ROAD. If the label indicates Autumn 2007 (or a prior issue) above your name, then your subscription has expired and its time to renew! Another batch of renewal notices will be mailed in the next few weeks. If you just mailed in your renewal form with payment, it is possible that the next renewal letter may cross your payment in the mail. Please disregard the notice if that is the case. You may now renew or subscribe on line. Simply go to the following link: http://americanroadmagazine.com/subscribe/subscribe.html You may also subscribe or renew by calling our toll-free number at 1-877-285-5434 x1. If we are assisting another caller, it will roll over to voice mail—so please leave us a message. We are always happy to call you back. DREAM WELL AND DRIVE SAFELY ON THE AMERICAN ROAD! You received this message because you provided your address to Mock Turtle Press—publisher of AMERICAN ROAD magazine. We use your e-mail to periodically provide you with information (subscription renewals, announcements, surveys, etc.) We do not sell e-mail addresses. If you wish to be removed from the list to receive future e-mail newsletters from us please e-mail becky@americanroadmagazine.com.

Hi gang. I spoke yesterday with Heather at the Central Illinois Tourism Development office. She invited everyone from our Forum to visit their booth in Springfield. She indicated that they are going to have some great giveaways and prizes at their booth. So, when you are all in Springfield (wish we could be there!) stop in at their booth and tell them you heard about them from American Road! I invite you to take pics and drop a note from the town where we officially announced the launch of American Road magazine! Happy Road Trippin'! Beck

Wow! What a great resource. I have an offer. If you would like to put downloadable files on our server that would be fine - since it looks like zoomfly basically only lets you view the images. That way - there's no postage. We could have them posted as a map library. If you want them only accessible to Forum members, we could password protect them. Let me know what you all think. Becky I don't know if this is an option, but, would a pdf file be smaller? b

New "Rag"? Hmmmm. I think that we ought to make you write up a Memory Motel article on the Tahoe or the Paradise Inn for that crack! B

GREAT idea! Becky

I like your way of looking at aging. Guess that means next year I'm 14! Becky