June 19th - 29th

Looks like the historic downtown of Ovideo, Florida is going to have some changes coming up soon. I personally don't like the sound of these changes...
I better go take some pictures of those Oveido Chickens that roam downtown before they are gone...
http://orlandoweekly.com/features/story.asp?id=11610

------------------------------------------------

The Lake Effect Diner, a 1950s Mountain View refurbished and opened in Buffalo in 2002, has closed while its owner, Tucker Curtin, ponders its future. Whenever the diner reopens, it will be with a new chef and staff, and don't expect 24 hour operation.
http://www.buffalonews.com/145/story/101859.html

------------------------------------------------

From Don - We ate at the Moondance diner over Memorial day weekend, and it is still open for at least another 6 most. I was talking with the owner, and I guess the people that want to develop the lot are having trouble getting a permit, because of the subway line that runs near the lot. So for now, it is still open.

----------------------------------------------

Bob Evans, whose name appears on hundreds of restaurants (mostly in the Midwest) has died at 89.

----------------------------------------------

From Craig - I made good use of the latest issue of Roadside today. I visited 2 Maryland diners that were featured. For lunch I went to Frank's Diner on route 1 near Jessup MD. The Nautilus diner is a new diner located near Crofton MD.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/roadsidefans/message/5741

---------------------------------------------

Certainly not a diner (though there's a great one on 9 Mile Rd in P-Cola!!), a great little fish shack called the Point, Innerarity Point Rd in west Pensacola.

---------------------------------------------

From Glenn Wells - For north-south travel in eastern New York, most people think of Route 9 or the
Taconic Parkway. But the often overlooked Route 22 hugs the state's eastern border for 350 miles, from New York City to Canada. In his new book "Route 22," New York City resident Benjamin Swett travels the highway, taking pictures and talking to people along the way.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/roadsidefans/message/5744

---------------------------------------------

From Glenn Wells - Perhaps you've filled out one of those comment cards typically found on restaurant tables, expressing your opinion of the food and service. And if you had a really bad experience, you probably wouldn't go back to that restaurant again.
At Four Corners Luncheonette in Delmar, NY, a mysterious diner has been sending in bitingly critical comments. But he can't hate the place all that much- he's still coming back 22 years later.
(I had lunch at Four Corners once, when my wife worked in Delmar, and it definitely has the vintage feel that RoadsideFans look for. But Susan would agree with the critic that the place is too small for live music performances.)
http://www.timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=600776&category=REGION&newsdate=6/25/2007

--------------------------------------------

It shook up the diner enthusiast community last year when the Mulholland family sold the Mayfair Diner (O'Mahony) to Michael Petrogiannis. Now, Petrogiannis has snapped up another Philadelphia landmark - the Melrose Diner (Paramount) and added it to his growing diner empire. Petrogiannis and his three brothers own nine other diners.
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/8194342.html

------------------------------------------------

June 11th-18th

Cinema under the stars

http://www.driveinmovie.com/mainmenu.htm

------------------------

O'Rourke's Diner Slowly Coming Back To Life

http://www.courant.com/news/local/hc-middiner0612.artjun12,0,7977142.story?collhc-headlines-local

-------------------------

It's not really a diner (although many news reports call it that) but Holsten's, the classic ice cream parlor in Bloomfield, New Jersey, is seeing an increase in business.
Roadside Diner Lady alerted us to this place last May in Message 5611. In case you've been asleep the past week, Holsten's is the place where the final scene in "The Sopranos" was filmed.

-------------------------

It's named Silk City Diner, and yes, it is an actual Silk City Diner manufactured by Paterson Vehicle Company. But it's more nightclub than diner in its operation, although it "offers American fare and cheap beers." And in a nod to diner tradition, it's planning to open for breakfast and lunch on the
weekends.

------------------------

Here's the link for Berta's website (including a link to his wife's site), which has an interesting history of how he ended up owning so many diners: http://www.jerryberta.com/

-------------------

June 3rd - 10th

Glenn Wells previewed another section of "The lost service areas: Fast food takes over." in message #5684

-------------------------------------

Adrien Chalifoux, the owner of Adrien's Diner in Pittsfield, MA passed away due to being hit by a run away car. Even worse when you hear it was on a 30mph almost downtown stretch of road.

-------------------------------------

Messages #5693 and #5694 dealt with Drive-In movies

-----------------------------------

Message #5704 discussed hot dogs and sandwiches in Pittsburgh

-----------------------------------

Big Boys grave yard? http://www.detroitfunk.com/2005/04/25/bigboy_graveyard.htm

----------------------------------

May 27th - June 2nd

There was a lot of general banter about Hot dogs and what are your favorite toppings and the fate of the diner in Farmington, Maine, which is on land being sold to Rite Aid.

A poll was created for people to vote on their favorite topping(s)

--------------------

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/orl-signs28x07may28,0,1470160.story
It's all about old antique signs in the Central Florida area...

---------------------

Review of a book about Wayne McAllister, the architect of a bunch of mid-century modern and
googie sites in LA and in Las Vegas; some still exist.
To order the book:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1586856995/roadsidefans-20
LA Times article:
http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/la-ca-mcallister20may20,1,6015805.story

----------------------

http://timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=593874&category=ARTS&newsdate=5/31/2007
Halfmoon Diner draws crowds to comfort

------------------------

http://www.uticaod.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070601/BUS/706010312/1052
Original pink flamingo reborn in Central N.Y.

-------------------------

http://www.telegram.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070526/NEWS/705260331/1002
Leominster, MA trying their own brand of new age Flamingo

------------------------

May 21st - 25th

On Saturday afternoon, I ate a diner that I had never eaten in before, Risser's Diner in Stouchburg PA. It is located along route 422 between Lebanon and Reading. It is only a few miles from my favorite
diner, Kumm Esses, which is in Myerstown PA. Anyway, Risser's has been partially bricked over on the outside and a dining room added, but the diner is indeed intact on the inside. They are known for the PA Dutch specialties. They even had hog maw on the menu. That is pig's stomach stuffed with sausage and potatoes. -Craig

-------------------

The Park Classic Diner in Jeanette was indeed an c. 1960 Eat'n Park drive-in converted in 1999 to a Postmodern, vaguely-barrel-roof diner look, but the diner in Monroeville was made by Kullman a year later. I was there when the trucks arrived from the factory supervised by Carmine Silva. - Brian B.

---------------

"There was some real excitement in downtown Kenosha on that day in 1926 when six horses pulled the Diner to the spot where it stands today. The structure was built by the Jerry O'Mahony firm in New
Jersey and shipped to Kenosha on a railroad flat car. Anthony Franks, who first learned of the unique restaurant opportunity through a magazine article, paid $7,500 plus $325 in shipping charges to launch
his business. There have been few changes in the appearance of the Diner since 1926. The dining room was added in 1935 and a larger kitchen in the mid 1940s. The Franks family operated Franks Diner
continuously until 2001. It is now owned and operated by Lynn Groleau and Chris Schwartz."

http://www.franksdinerkenosha.com/index.html

-------------------

Yes, you're right. These days, the majority of people think bigger is better. Sea World and all the Orlando glitz was a bit too close. Now they have programs where you can get in the water with the dolphins. I haven't been, but inquired about taking my son there for his birthday.
http://www.marineland.net/

----

Woofboy111
> http://www.geocities.com/floridaeveryoneforgot

---------------------

http://www.thisamericanlife.org/Radio_Episode.aspx?episode=102

Very interesting and well-produced hour-long show exploring the idea of the road trip. -Wen

----------------------

As the global economy steamrollers along, the news comes that the Formica
trademark is now owned by a New Zealand firm.
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601081&sid=aPR.o0lGKbh0&refer=australia

----------------------

May 13th - 20th

Conneaut Lake Park is a 115 year old amusement park in Conneaut Lake, Pennsylvania that is reminiscent of Whalom Park. Set on a lake, with a landmarked wooden roller coaster, tumblebug, whip and many other rides we all remember and love, Conneaut is a special place.

For its own set of circumstances, Conneaut is struggling to open this year.

Conneaut Lake: http://www.conneautlakepark.com/index.html

-------------------------------------

Transplanted 1920s diner made to order for technical school

CRANSTON — The Cranston High School West campus expanded by one building over the weekend — and this new classroom is more than 80 years old.

On Saturday, the old dining car that had long been the front half the popular eatery Johnny B’s was hoisted from its home on Cranston Street and trundled to the school grounds, where it will be a hands-on laboratory for students in the residential construction program at the Cranston Area Career and Technical Center.

http://www.projo.com/ri/cranston/content/WB_crjohnny_05-15-07_DS5KRDB.30cdd69.html

--------------------------------

Blair Tarr of Kansas said "Just curious for a reaction about the comments made regarding people
who want to establish a tornado museum in Greensburg, Kansas:"

http://www.kansas.com/233/story/71208.html

--------------------------------

Glenn Wells has started a Toll Road Service Area Project: "We may not remember them for the finest food or the cleanest rest rooms, but the service areas on toll roads, consisting of a restaurant, gasoline station, and usually a gift shop, have been part of many a road trip over the past half-century. However, a large number of the original service plaza buildings, dating to the 1950s or earlier, have been demolished and rebuilt."

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/roadsidefans/message/5596

The Illinois Tollway "oases" are better documented than most. Visit this web page:
http://www.panix.com/~rbean/oasis/

---------------------------------

http://www.uticaod.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070518/NEWS/70518007

Sears museum to open

ROME — The restored Sears Oil Co. Service Station museum at George and Liberty streets will open Monday for its second full season.
Through June, the museum will be open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Extended hours are planned for the summer.
The 1930 service station was restored by Howard P. Sears Jr. as a tribute to his father, Howard P. Sears Sr., and to his early business career, which he began almost 90 years ago.

------------------------------

Jeff Shank said "I recently updated my website with many new pictures. There are postcards and slides that I've collected over the years. The signage section has some great motel images from the 50s and 60s.

http://www.retro-matic.com/

---------------------------------

Check out this link to see the most fantastic old time New Jersey soda fountain and grill.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17522734/

Holsten's
1063 Broad St, Bloomfield, NJ
(973) 338-7091

For pictures: http://agilitynut.com/eateries/njic.html#Holsten

-----------LINKS------------------

Guidebook to exploring Kansas - http://kansasguidebook.com/
Cottonwood, KS
http://www.emmachasecafe.com/traffic.htm
http://www.grandcentralhotel.com/

-------

http://www.californiacoastline.org

-------

Mystery Spot in Santa Cruz, http://www.mysteryspot.com/

-------

Musee Mecanique, a collection of arcade amusements. At Pier 45. http://www.museemechanique.org/

------

Diner in Texas! http://www.hullabaloodiner.com/thehistory.shtml

------

Restaurant in Marshall, MI http://www.schulersrestaurant.com

May 5th - 12th

The goal of this 3rd International LUSTRON Conference will serve as a catalyst to further the research, education, enjoyment and preservation of the Lustron Home!

Date: Saturday, June 9th, 2007
Time: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

http://www.lustronhome.com/index.htm

----------------------------

As officially announced on Roadside Online, the business partnership between Christopher Carvell and Randy Garbin has been dissolved, effective May 1.

Christopher Carvell, previously employed by diner manufacturer Kullman Industries, now has full ownership of State & Main Associates, a diner renovating and consulting company in which he had been a partner with Garbin.

Randy Garbin retains control and ownership of Roadside Magazine, RoadsideOnline.com, DinerForSale.com, and all of its associated products and publications.

---------------------------

Providence Journal - This week
WARWICK, RI. — It was the end of another Rhode Island era.

Under bright skies, wrecking crews yesterday began demolishing the former Rocky Point, as onlookers shared stories about good times they had at the once-glittering amusement park.

---------------------------

A story about the demolition of downtown Grundy, VA and the hopes of a Wal-Mart coming to town to save the day.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/05/05/AR2007050501038.html

---------------------------

Tornados did incredible damage to Kansas this week.

Kansas has its share of offbeat tourist attractions, and one of them is the World's Largest Hand Dug Well in Greensburg.

http://www.bigwell.org/bigwell.html

Today the well itself is still there, but like much else in Greensburg, the small frame building that housed a small museum and gift shop, is in splinters.

----------------------------

The Prospect Mountain Diner in Lake George, NY, a Silk City diner from 1950, has been totally destroyed by fire.

http://www.poststar.com/articles/2007/05/12/news/local/2508ffdfd4b6aa62852572d9000f8577.txt

----------------------------

The Sterns, from roadfood.com mentioned their favorite Drive-Ins

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/roadsidefans/message/5565

-----------------------------

April 29th - May 4th

Gordon Tindall has a thing for old diners - Story from beginning of April in the Elmira Star Gazette, PA version. The article tells about Gordon's acquisition of the former Cecil's Trackside Diner of Wellington, Oh.

-----------------

Worcester Deluxe 101 has been sold. - After more than 45 years, Worcester Deluxe 101 may finally be finished. At least, that's what the new owners, Chris and Matt Blanchard, have planned.

Worcester Deluxe 101, built after the original Worcester Lunch Car Company closed in 1961, spent the next three decades stored inside the Van Slett Sign Company shop in Worcester. When that building was cleared out, the American Diner Museum acquired the unfinished diner.

http://wbjournal.com/j/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1636&Itemid=142

-------------------

Red Robin Diner in Johnson City, NY stays with original owners Chris and Pat Anagnostako as a deal to sell the diner fell through.

-----------------

The Fodero diner in Malta Ridge, NY (Route 9 just south of Exit 13 of I-87) is reopen as Bloomers, and American Bistro. The counter is gone.

----------------

A reall cool stained glass sign for Bixler Hardware in Stroudsburg, PA was saved. Read the article that talked about the sign before it was saved.

http://www.poconorecord.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070421/NEWS/704210327/-1/rss28

---------------------------

Edgemere Diner in Shrewsbury, MA for sale for $1* Read the fine print in the article that talks about how you could get a Fodero diner for only a dollar.

http://www.telegram.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070501/NEWS/705010613/1008/NEWS02

-------------------------------

Michigan State Fairgrounds history: Roller-coaster ride at the state fairgrounds

-------------------------------

Valley Arctic Island: Preservation success story -
Valley Arctic Island, a noteworthy vintage ice cream stand in Syracuse, NY, came closer than we realized to being demolished. The "Scoop" is located on the Seneca Turnpike, west of US Rt 11 in "The Valley" which is south on US Rt 11 from downtown Syracuse, NY.

-------------------------

The Munson Diner in Liberty, NY (NY Rt 17, Sullivan Co.) inches closer to being open. Though it seems that the interior may get muddled.

http://www.recordonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070501/NEWS/705010319/-1/NEWS

-------------------------

There were 3 articles about the Moondance Diner in Manhattan. Basically, there's a muddied story. But the diner owner needs money to move the diner to another location. He also, seemingly, has to buy the diner from the people who have purchased the land and will be building condos.

http://www.amny.com/news/local/am-moondance0503,0,2409820.story?coll=am-local-headlines

-------------------

A two-week vacation's worth of recommendations - From Susan Levinson. A plethora of information on assorted cities all over Central states of America.

------------------

Soda fountains in Texas - An article about 10 soda fountains in Texas.

Pharmacies boasted soda fountains because carbonated water was considered to be therapeutic. In fact, early soft drinks such as Coca-Cola and Dr Pepper were touted as health drinks.
Some of the originals have survived for more than a century, while others have been lovingly recreated. Some of our favorites are featured inside.

---------------------

April 22nd to 28th

A Roadside Fan member took a trip to the Catawissa Bottling Co. A maker of soda in Catawissa, PA

Road trip to Catawissa Bottling Company

-----------------------------

As vintage roadside attractions go, Howe Caverns in central New York can be said to be among the oldest, since its rock formations are millions of years old. But like other vintage attractions, Howe Caverns has seen a decline in attendance, from 220,000 to 140,000 annually over the last 20 years. Now, new owners are promising to pump some new life into an underground gem.

http://timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=582468&category=BUSINESS&newsdate=4/20/2007

----------------------------

Mid-Atlantic popular | American culture association
18th Annual Conference
Call for Papers 2007 MAPACA Conference
November 2-4, 2007
Radisson Plaza-Warwick Hotel Philadelphia

please visit MAPACA’s online newsletter, The Gazette, at http://www.mapacagazette.net

----------------------------

Messages 5548 - 5550 talked about diners in movies

---------------------------

Chick's Diner in Scranton, PA fought the (No Smoking) law, and the law won.

http://www.thetimes-tribune.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=18251309&BRD=2185&PAG=461&dept_id=415898&rfi=6

--------------------------

Cable news channel New York 1 has a video report on the Moondance Diner in Manhattan, slated for closing so that condos can be developed on the site (see RoadsideFans Message 5249):
http://www.ny1.com/ny1/content/index.jsp?stid=8&aid=69098

http://tinyurl.com/2t3utf

-------------------------

The Empire Diner is going to have new owners, who have a successful track record of running restaurants. Crazy Otto's Empire Diner will be the name, and it should open up by the end of June.

http://www.herkimertelegram.com/articles/2007/04/27/news/news03.txt

------------------------

Couple assorted links mentioned this week

ttp://www.ritterfarms.com in Eastern Tennessee
Fred's Inn in Norwich, NY http://fredsinn.com/

Ken's Diner in Birch Run, MI http://www.kens-diner.com

http://www.usroute20.com/ The US Route 20 pages has been updated

April 15 to 21st

Dutch Kitchen Diner in Frackville -

It looks like they redid the outside, but the inside remains unchanged. I have fond memories of stopping there on our treks south. Maybe someone knows what kind of diner this is? Here
is the web site: http://www.dutchkitchen.com/

------------------------------

Kappy's Diner, a Valentine, is located at 501 N. Orlando Ave. in Maitland. #5548

------------------------------

This page explains the history of Big Boy, leading up to the two companies that
exist today (Big Boy International and Frisch's):
http://www.99w.com/evilsam/ff/bigboy.htm

--

There are obvious differences between the Frisch's and Bob's Big Boy statues. But one of the neat things about the early Frisch's Big Boys is the slingshot in the back pocket -- just visible in this photo from the Sign Museum:
http://www.agilitynut.com/06/3/frisch2.jpg
-------------------------------

Thus, the first-ever "Greasy Spoon Awards." given out by our host Glenn Wells
The Silver Spoon goes to Tums.

--

Gold Spoon goes to the Heart Attack Grill in Tempe, Arizona.

Here's a video report posted on You Tube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O9N4Y1DpTxs

------------------------------

Vermont sits on edge of diner crisis
By Ed Shamy
http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070417/COLUMNIST\
S05/70417016/1007/NEWS02

---------------------------

A beach is much more fun when there's someplace nearby to buy a soda or ice cream cone. Any 12 year old kid knows that.

In Madeira Beach, Florida, 12 year old Kaitlyn Chalke has become an advocate for an 80 year old log cabin known as the Snack Shack. The city decided to demolish the building, prompting Chalke to collect 200 signatures supporting keeping the Snack Shack.

--------------------------

April 8th - 14th

From TheAmericanRoadside.com "The author of the book on the A1 Diner, Sarah Rolph, is the guest on my latest podcast. It's a complete coincidence that the Food Network decided to shoot there this week...and I just posted the podcast. Sarah is really a wonderful woman and the book is a delight."
--------------

There were talks about Roundabouts and SPUI, and "pronounced as though it's spelled "Spewie." Meet the Single Point Urban Interchange."

--------------

Train meet this weekend at Merchants Square Mall 1901 S 12th St Allentown Pa April 15th 10am-3pm
Visit http://www.lehighvalleytrainmeet.com

-----------------

Diner news from all around:

The A-1 Diner in Gardiner, Maine hosted a crew from the Food Network today and Friday, filming for the newest installment of "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives."
http://business.mainetoday.com/news/070411a1diner.html

Fremont, Nebraska has a new diner, Penny's Diner, and it's even open 24 hours. From the photograph, it appears to be a Starlite.
http://www.fremontneb.com/articles/2007/04/11/news/news2.txt

In Rochester, NY, Charles Scanio has departed the popular Charlie Brown's Restaurant on North Goodman Street, turning over the spatula to Bob and Bill Keller.
http://www.democratandchronicle.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070412/ENT0305/\
704120323/1060/ENT03

Chef's Diner in Montour Falls, NY has been offering a "Titanic dinner," offering food like what would have been served on that ill-fated ocean liner.
http://www.stargazettenews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070410/COLUMNIST05/7\
04100308

And in Glenmont, NY (south of Albany) Dan Sher visits Johnny B's Glenmont Diner.
http://timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=580146&category=ARTS&newsdate\
=4/12/2007

April 2nd-8th

former Boston Trolley Diner now an Asian restaurant in Marlborough, Massachusetts.
Fire
http://www.thebostonchannel.com/news/11564589/detail.html

---------------------

Posts #5415, #5425 asked Is "Modern" over?

-----------------------

Fleetwood Diner offers classic fare (suburban Grand Rapids, where you should first find Pal's Diner, even though the original Fleetwood diner in Ann Arbor is fantastic!)

http://www.mlive.com/entertainment/grpress/index.ssf?/base/features-0/1175784596\
246190.xml&coll=6

----------------

The Albany Times Union published a review of the former Tops Diner(they tore it down and started over with a stick built building) now "Tops American Grill, Bakery & Bar." . Food was always good at the place. It's just sad they tore the diner down.

http://timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=578184&category=ARTS&newsdate\
=4/5/2007&TextPage=1

--------------

Monorails http://www.monorails.org/tMspages/Where.html

----------------

Mr. Ed's Elephant Museum http://www.mistereds.com

---------------------

Orange roof stays, but state’s last HoJo’s gets new name - Brass House Restaurant, Waterbury, CT

http://www.nhregister.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=18182341&BRD=1281&PAG=461&dept_id\
=517514&rfi=6

March 26-April 1

Just a reminder that every week on Roadside Radio, we mention unique web sites and unique places to visit, for example, one place mentioned this week was the "Pork Roll Express" www.porkrollxpress.com. They sell Taylor Ham and so much more that people from NJ may miss, all across the country, via the mail.

------

The Red Robin's (Johnson City, NY)last day of a 37 year tenure of Chris and Pat Anagnostakos was last Saturday. They will open up shortly after a remodeling. The diner is a Mountain View

-------

Message 5397 talked about the history of "Michigan" Sauce and Michigan Hot Dogs, so popular in Plattsburg, NY.

------

Old drugstore in Saginaw, MI closes up. Pankonin Rexall Drugs has a soda fountain, and has been open for 130 years, but it won't make 131.

------

Dick's Drive In Restaurants - Seattle area

http://www.ddir.com/

-----

When this place says Roadside BBQ. They mean it. This guy parks his vehicle and smoker on the side of the road. I've seen it personally. Didn't know it was a big time thing.

http://www.allsmokedup.com

----

When chains get new uses

http://www.notfoolinganybody.com

----

For Fans of Googie

THE most extensive Googie site of them all, it's
http://www.roadsidepeek.com
For even MORE Googie and such, it's
http://www.lottalivin.com
And if you *STILL* haven't quite gotten enough of that great stuff,
http://www.jetsetmodern.com

March 16-24

From the Staten Island Advance(NYC) -- The sale of the 40 year old Country Club Diner in Grasmere is expected to close in the next two months. Yawn, for a Walgreens.

-----------

The Syracuse Post Standard said, "The former Miss Syracuse Diner? Meet Anmar Cafe, the new name for the storied diner across from Syracuse's City Hall, at 258 E. Water St." The diner is a Bixler.

------------

The Burlington(VT) Free Press reported that the Parkway Diner will reopen next month.

------------

Willies Weenie Wagon is located on Altama Ave in Brunswick, Georgia. This old landmark is still run by Willie himself! It is an old roadside stand that has been added onto several times. The hot dogs and other menu items are legendary. Willie is famous for his pork chop sandwich and people drive for miles to get one. If you ever pass by Brunswick, Georgia on I-95 be sure to pull off and visit Willie!

---------------------------

Florida resident Lynn Jenkins mentioned places in St. Augustine, FL "I'd also recommend the Cracker Cafe on St. George St. for some of the best Minorcan Chowder in the area and O.C. Whites for a really great dinner."

------------------

From the York (PA) Dispatch. "The York Drive-In Theatre is the test pilot for a new technology that will allow movies to be shown in broad daylight instead of a traditional night-time viewing" One reader reported that it's a "poseur", that it's really a large TV.

----------------

Glenn Well's Florida gem is the Hob Nob Drive In Restaurant 1701 N Washington Blvd. Sarasota, FL 941-955-5001. His beach reading (what a treat!) "My beach reading on the trip was "Glass Bottom Boats and Mermaid Tails" by TimHollis. This book explores a nearly forgotten aspect of Florida tourism..."

--------------

Family to part with Big Jim sculpture near Charleroi
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07081/771527-55.stm

100 years ago, road rage was rampant (concerning a Brian Butko talk)
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/opinion/columnists/seate/s_498913.html

---------------------

Steve and Susan Levinson took a three-day trip to the Lehigh Valley area of PA last week-
end and ate at several good places. Post #5362 for more in depth info. Very worth it if these places sound to your liking.

In the downtown section of Emmaus (a few miles south of Allentown): Balasia, a vegetarian (actually, *vegan*) restaurant (500 Chestnut Street; 484-330-6405),

Phillipsburg, NJ (across from Easton, PA): Union Station Grill, where we ate lunch on Saturday in the renovated train dining car. The owners are a husband & wife (he's the chef and she's the server). They were very nice people and we enjoyed meeting them. http://www.theunionstationgrill.com/index.htm

Granny McCarthy's Tea Room, located in the charming historic downtown section of Bethlehem. http://donegal.com/tea_room_home.asp

Apollo Grill (also located in downtown Bethlehem). It's been voted "Best Bethlehem Restaurant" seven years in-a-row and it was easy to see why. Dinner reservations - even for early hours - are absolutely necessary. http://www.apollogrill.com

Shankweiler's Drive-In ("America's oldest drive-in theater", located in Orefield): http://www.shankweilers.com/

Yocco's "The Hot Dog King" (the original location is in Allentown, plus there are now two additional Allentown locations and one/each in Emmaus, Fogelsville & Trexlertown)
http://skew.ot.com/seven/menu/home.html

The Heavenly Hedgehog Ice Cream Company, in downtown Bethlehem:
http://www.heavenlyhedgehog.com/faq.php (the FAQs are quite amusing)

RoadsideFans in Vacation.

A few things that have happened this week, as life doesn't stop =]
Many thanks to theamericanroadside.com

Virginia OK's Drive In Theatre
The Bedford County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously Monday night to approve a rezoning request and a special use permit for Mayberry Drive-In Theatre and Diner. The entertainment center is slated to be located on a 14-acre tract on the east side of White House Road just off Virginia 122 near Moneta.
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Good news! The Committee to Rebuild O'Rourke's Diner(Middletown,CT) has raised over $150,000 to date! It won't be long before construction begins. We're looking forward to a September grand opening!
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Check out www.theamericanroadside.com for a great interview of Richard Gutman!
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http://www.news-tribune.net/homepage/local_story_074121504.html?keyword=leadpicturestory

As the evening sun sets over New Albany, the grill at Little Chef 24-hour diner is ready for one of its busiest times of the day — the middle of the night.

Located on the corner of Market and Bank streets in downtown New Albany since 1957, the diner provides a 24-hour refuge for night owls in search of a home-cooked meal and a native atmosphere.

March 2-8

http://newsminer.com/2007/03/03/5650/ Published March 3, 2007
Randy Jones said Harley's Diner MC is the only true diner in the state of Alaska. "And without a shadow of a doubt," he added, "it is the northernmost diner in the world." The mark of a true diner, he said, is that it has to be manufactured by a factory and moved to a permanent site.

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http://www.wzzm13.com/news/local/grmetro_article.aspx?storyid=71826
Rosie's Diner on 14 Mile in Rockford was damaged in the Thursday's winter storm. The neon sign above Rosie's now just says "Diner".

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ypsi-slim mentioned more than a handful of restaurants on the Lincoln Highway in Ohio. Message #5314 Note that ypsi writes a Lincoln Highway e-newsletter

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Johnson and Wales diner exhibit was brought up:
Moderator's note: The exhibit is "Diners: Still Cooking in the 21st Century" and it is based on the collection (and considerable diner knowledge) of Richard J. S. Gutman, author of "American Diner Then and Now." Part of their exhibit is the Ever Ready Diner, a Worcester Lunch Car that still needs considerable restoration. The Culinary Archives and Museum of Johnson & Wales is in a nondescript warehouse-like building a little ways out of downtown Providence, but the exhibit is definitely worth seeking out. Their web site:

http://www.culinary.org/dinerpage/index.htm

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Cara sent this message out: I am from the Flint MI area originally and there is no longer a Kewpie's there in Flint. That chain was morphed into Bill Thomas' Haloburger which is still going strong. Bill was an employee of Sam Blair. Another man bought the rights to the Kewpie brand name after the death of Sam Blair and then later Bill changed the name of his business to Bill Thomas Haloburger.

http://www.kewpee.com/flinthistory.php
http://www.haloburger.com/main/

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The American Diner Museum was mentioned and Glenn Played the role of Switzerland, without the illegal hording of money by one or both sides. =]

Randy St. John of the Nest Diner(owner) commented, "I'll be the brave one. Why does no one mention the American Diner Museum? Perhaps the Executive Director would weigh in? He occasionally
posts to this group. Does this mean the museum is officially kaput? I know for a fact that Mr. Zilka associated himself with the museum as recently as two weeks ago regarding a local diner soon to change hands. Perhaps Greg A could weigh in in his staid? What about the American Diner Museum? If the Heritage Harbor project site in Providence is no longer a viable option, where will this museum be located? When?"

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Just under the gun for this week's edition: Help save Coney Island from, no, not killer tomatoes, something worse, Condos.

Please write to Amanda Burden to let her know that you support her position that there should be NO CONDOS in the Amusement District. The area is currently zoned C7 for Amusements only! This C7 zoning should be preserved! http://www.observer.com/20070312/20070312_Matthew_Schuerman_finance_newsstory1.asp
You can write to her at: http://www.nyc.gov/html/mail/html/maildcp.html

Feb 23 - March 1

There was talk of America's love with Travel Trailers. From this article:

http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/arizonaliving/articles/0223shady0223.html

One poster said: "And, consider these incentives for camping or traveling with a trailer: 1. We were in love with America, our big wonderful country, and we could "really see" the country as we traveled through it (not something that can be achieved by air) and we could choose our own routes (not something that can be done by rail) ... 5. The city-folk who rented trailers were people who wanted to "escape" the more sophisticated way of doing things."

We were also reminded of "The Long, Long Trailer" starring Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz

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There was talk about New Jersey, and the oft made comment about residents of New Jersey giving directions by exits of of highways. We were reminded that there is much more to New Jersey than the highways like the Garden State. We were also reminded that much has changed in New Jersey's landscape in the last 50 years, though.

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The Colombia Cafe, former Chatham Diner in Chatham, New Jersey, earned a mention in the New York Times last August. Unfortunately, the diner's days may be numbered as a new three story building is being proposed for the site in downtown Chatham. The diner is a Silk City

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here's an interesting-sounding book about Michigan's "Vernor's":
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0472066978/roadsidefans-20

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Silver Diner in Pawtucket. Looks like it will be sold.

http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=17906540&BRD=1713&PAG=461&dept_id=2449\
1&rfi=6

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Susan Levinson gave us two links:

Despite the name of this company - which could be construed as a double entendre - this sounds like the "real deal" if you like handmade Kentucky bourbon candy: http://www.gethappyballs.com/

And here's the web site for the Rebecca Ruth candy factory (also in KY), which has been in operation since 1919 (be sure to click on "The Ruth Booe Story", as it's quite interesting): http://www.rrcandy.com/

Feb 15-22nd

A good week at RoadsideFans. Something that went under the radar was the opening of the Elizaville Diner, the day before the big snowstorm on the East Coast. Elizaville is located off of US Rt 9, between Red Hook and Hudson, NY. The diner is the former Eat Well Diner of Lebanon, PA. Go to www.elizavillediner.com for more info.
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Moondance Diner to leave us. I never posted the link last time around.

http://www.nysun.com/article/48536
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I'm quite late in answering your query - but we drove US 1 between
Miami & Key West twice (in late 1993 & early 1995) and it was most
definitely worth doing (in fact, we look forward to doing it again
someday). There are good places to stop and eat the famous conch
("konk") chowder & key lime pie (we tried our luck each time & in
each direction and we were never disappointed). The scenery was very
pretty and relaxing all along the route.

(thanks to) Susan Levinson
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A book was recommended on US 1. "It's called The Great American
Road Trip by Peter Genovese."
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"Shirley D's diner in Manchester, NH is up for sale. I believe this is a Worcester diner, but it has been renovated so much over the years that I am not sure how much of the original diner is left."
Asking price is $330,000,
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This weeks question of the week:
I'm taking a trip to the Poconos this October. I haven't been there for over 15 years and my husband has never been. I used to go every summer with my family back in the 1970's. I used to love going to the Pioneer diner and on the Alpine Slide and Kallie's Candy Kitchen. But, I'm sure its changed a lot. Does anyone have any recommendations of what is worth seeing there now that isn't too over commercialized? We'll be staying in the Camelback/ Mount Pocono area.
(reply on the list for all of us to enjoy!)
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Links this week.

A story about pie in Arizona
http://www.eastvalleytribune.com/story/84219
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"A road trip documentary focusing on the two largest balls of twine in the world:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtZZ_R0clUE
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Weeki Wachee Springs
http://mermaid.weekiwachee.com/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5OdMNFgKFg&mode=related&search=
http://americanroadmagazine.com/programming/programming.html
--

February 8-14th

Someone recommended the travel book series put out by Moon Books http://www.moon.com

The Bluebird II Diner north of Scranton, on US 6 and 11 sports a new roof. Bluebird II a couple of years ago, had a rather uninspiring parapet wall shielding the roof from view, now it has a "spiffy new blue metal roof"

Manhattan is to lose to Moondance Diner. So get there before it closes and gets demolished.

Travel Channel has these shows upcoming

FEB 17 2007 @ 05:00 PM Hot Dog Heavens
FEB 17 2007 @ 07:00 PM World's Best Places to Pig Out

"On-Site Diner" to reopen.

The former Green Mountain Diner and lastly known as the Farmer's Diner. This on-site diner is reopening as "The Pit Stop", owned by Cheyenne Roberts

One of the major "fake diner" chains, Johnny Rockets, will get a major expansion push if the owner of the Washington Redskins has his way. Growing the chain to 1000 units is envisioned, but keep in mind all the chains that expanded rapidly, and crashed and burned even more rapidly.

People commented about Sweet Potato french fries. Some people like them, some don't.

A question was asked.

Q: Any suggestions on sights to see along the Lincoln Highway across Nebraska?

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Random Diner links

http://www.brickshelf.com/gallery/Jonathanlopes/diners/Almacs-Diner/diner.jpg
A Lego diner. modeled after Al Mac's inFall River, MA

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http://www.trainnet.org/Libraries/Lib016/DINER.JPG

Old train diner in Sandwich, Ill now known as http://www.kellyspubonline.com
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http://images.businessweek.com/ss/06/07/diners/source/3.htm

Elizaville Diner in Elizaville, NY
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http://michelesworld.net/dmm2/lulu/diner/diner.jpg

Center Diner in Peekskill

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February 1-7 RoadsideFans in Review

Deli Talk:

Katz's and Yonah Schimmel's are on Houston St., about 42 blocks
south of 42nd St. and a few
blocks east. The Carnegie Deli and the Stage are much closer.
I had good luck, as there is *one* Jewish deli-restaurant left in
Newark. It's called Hobby's

This was all based on the talk of the Lincoln Highway in New Jersey.
The Route of which was given in post #5140

Soft Drinks:

There was much talk about Soda, Pop, Soda Pop, Coke, Tonic etc...
And what it is called in different parts of the country. This moved
to Regional Brands of Soda.

Jimmies versus Sprinkles - People in the east seem to say Jimmies go
on ice cream and Sprinkles on cookies.

Brian Butko talked about a Lincoln Highway Companion #5173

The venerable Texas Hots in Wellsville, NY was closing! But just for
a few weeks.

Road Trip Books: Message #5183 talked about Texas trips. A link is
in the link section for the Newspaper Articles, Archived.

Links Mentioned this Week

http://www.benschilibowl.com - From the "Hungry Detective" on the Food
Network, Washington DC
http://popvssoda.com:2998/ - Pop vs Soda debate
http://portland.citysearch.com/review/8470184 - Dog House in Portland,
Oregon
http://www.lovelesscafe.com Loveless Cafe in Nashville #5147
http://www.familywash.com - Former laundromat now eatery in Nashville
#5147
http://www.hollandfarms.com/ Holland Farms in Utica, NY and their
jelly buns
http://www.realsoda.com/ California based distributor of Vintage Sodas
http://www.boylanbottling.com/ - Boylans Bottling Co out of Northern
New Jersey
http://www.hanks-rootbeer.com/ Hank's Soda, out of the Philly area
http://www.catawissabottlingco.com Makers of Bin Ben soda and they
bottle Moxie. In PA
ttp://www.shiawasseehistory.com/soda.html - Soda Pop Shoppe in
Owosso, MI (historical)
http://www.drainspotting.com The world of man hole covers.
http://www.goldbergsdeli.com/ourStory.html - Deli in Seattle and
suburban Detroit.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=ZWlbPkoWfgM Martin Sexton's "Diner Song" as
a video!
http://www.austinchronicle.com/gyrobase/Archives/columns?ColumnName=Day+Trips