Thursday, October 28, 2004
St. Louis - 1006 miles
Toasted Ravioli 
There are a variety of foods that originated in St. Louis. For example, the ice cream cone was invented here during the 1904 World's Fair. One local favorite is toasted ravioli. One word, I have read - delicious. This is meat or cheese filled ravioli that is breaded and fried, served with marinara sauce and parmesan cheese. At any local Italian restaurant you are bound to find this. Good luck trying to find this dish anywhere else in the country. Also St. Louis is famous for "Thin Crust" Pizza. Walked 4 miles on treadmill as I start to move out of St. Louis. Damn, this ravioli looks good! Recipe: http://www.recipezaar.com/recipe/getrecipe.zsp?id=31320
There are a variety of foods that originated in St. Louis. For example, the ice cream cone was invented here during the 1904 World's Fair. One local favorite is toasted ravioli. One word, I have read - delicious. This is meat or cheese filled ravioli that is breaded and fried, served with marinara sauce and parmesan cheese. At any local Italian restaurant you are bound to find this. Good luck trying to find this dish anywhere else in the country. Also St. Louis is famous for "Thin Crust" Pizza. Walked 4 miles on treadmill as I start to move out of St. Louis. Damn, this ravioli looks good! Recipe: http://www.recipezaar.com/recipe/getrecipe.zsp?id=31320
Wednesday, October 27, 2004
Arrived in Missouri -1002 miles
Gateway Arch Here is a link to an interesting story of a gentleman, Don Mark, who tells about his adventure riding to the top of the Arch - and down:
http://www.pacifier.com/~dlmark/TRGatewayArch.htm Walked five miles today on the trail in the "mist". Felt good to be over 1000 miles, in Missouri (my 7th state) and to be at the "Gateway to the West"
Here is a link to an interesting story of a gentleman, Don Mark, who tells about his adventure riding to the top of the Arch - and down:
http://www.pacifier.com/~dlmark/TRGatewayArch.htm Walked five miles today on the trail in the "mist". Felt good to be over 1000 miles, in Missouri (my 7th state) and to be at the "Gateway to the West"
Tuesday, October 26, 2004
Nearing the Mississippi - 997
Mississippi River Basin http://gatewayno.com/history/Mississippi.html Walked 5 miles on the trail today.
http://gatewayno.com/history/Mississippi.html Walked 5 miles on the trail today.
Monday, October 25, 2004
Nice thing about ESL - 992
East St. Louis, IL SI Kozol St. Louis, Illinois "the most distressed small city in America." "Perhaps the most crime-ridden, downtrodden, and dangerous area in the entire USA." A first-time visitor suddenly deposited on its eerily empty streets, East St. Louis might suggest another world." The city, which is 98 percent black, has no obstetric services, no regular trash collection, and few jobs. Nearly a third of its families live on less than $7,500 a year; 75 percent of its population lives on welfare of some form.
Only three of the 13 buildings on Missouri Avenue, one of the city's major thoroughfares, are occupied. A 13-story office building, tallest in the city, has been boarded up. Out side, on the sidewalk, a pile of garbage fills a ten-foot crater.
It is, according to a teacher at the University of Southern Illinois, "a repository for a nonwhite population that is now regarded as expendable." The Post-Dispatch describes it as "America's Soweto."
The nice thing about ESL - there is a freeway (route 50/44) that enables one to bypass the city and go east and west at 70 miles per hour. Walked four miles today on the trail.
Only three of the 13 buildings on Missouri Avenue, one of the city's major thoroughfares, are occupied. A 13-story office building, tallest in the city, has been boarded up. Out side, on the sidewalk, a pile of garbage fills a ten-foot crater.
It is, according to a teacher at the University of Southern Illinois, "a repository for a nonwhite population that is now regarded as expendable." The Post-Dispatch describes it as "America's Soweto."
The nice thing about ESL - there is a freeway (route 50/44) that enables one to bypass the city and go east and west at 70 miles per hour. Walked four miles today on the trail.
Saturday, October 23, 2004
Great Cahokia - 988 miles
Cahokia Painting Walked 5 miles today. 12 miles from the Mississippi River and St. Louis. Cahokia, a little north of Route 50 was once the largest city in N. America. Monk Mound, centerpiece of the city, is the largest mound in U.S.
During the Middle Ages, Cahokia was a larger city than London and yet today, is an abandoned place about which we know almost nothing. Centuries ago, there were more than 120 mounds at the Cahokia site, though the locations of only 106 have been recorded. Many of them have been destroyed or altered. Sixty-eight remail. It is generally believed that about 20,000 people once occupied Cahokia, living inside of a wooden stockade which surrounded various pyramids. What the actual name of the city may have been in ancient times is unknown. The site is believed to have existed from 700 A.D. until its decline in 1300. By 1500, it is thought to have been completely abandoned.
Walked 5 miles today. 12 miles from the Mississippi River and St. Louis. Cahokia, a little north of Route 50 was once the largest city in N. America. Monk Mound, centerpiece of the city, is the largest mound in U.S.
During the Middle Ages, Cahokia was a larger city than London and yet today, is an abandoned place about which we know almost nothing. Centuries ago, there were more than 120 mounds at the Cahokia site, though the locations of only 106 have been recorded. Many of them have been destroyed or altered. Sixty-eight remail. It is generally believed that about 20,000 people once occupied Cahokia, living inside of a wooden stockade which surrounded various pyramids. What the actual name of the city may have been in ancient times is unknown. The site is believed to have existed from 700 A.D. until its decline in 1300. By 1500, it is thought to have been completely abandoned.
World's Largest Catsup Bottle - 983
"BROOKS CATSUP BOTTLE WATER TOWER (1949) A couple of miles south of Route 50/Fairview Heights, IL. This unique structure held 100,000 gallons of water, not catsup. While some of the water was used in operation of the catsup factory, most was reserved for fire protection. By 1993 this 170 ft. tall landmark was showing signs of age. The Catsup Bottle Preservation Group, lead a drive to restore the bottle to its original 1949 appearance. The World's Largest Catsup Bottle is known around the world as an excellent example of 20th Century roadside Americana." Nearing E. St. Louis. Took yesterday off. Five miles today.
Thursday, October 21, 2004
Near Fairview Heights - 978 miles
Thought of something profound to include in this journal today while I was doing 3 miles on the treadmill, but I can't recall the idea. Trying to remember, bought this quote to mind from:
"Hallmark Medical Collections"
"Read this twice and add to reminders
We need to see you about Alzheimers"
Anyone know a word that rhymes with Colonoscopy?
"Hallmark Medical Collections"
"Read this twice and add to reminders
We need to see you about Alzheimers"
Anyone know a word that rhymes with Colonoscopy?
Wednesday, October 20, 2004
O'Fallon, IL - 975
Pizza Challenge http://www.schiappas.com/ofallon/challenge.htm Check contest rules with the link. "Regurgitates" is in one of the rules and a "stopper". And I am thinking that this could disturb the "casual diner" sitting nearby enjoying a meal and watching the contest. I bet they make money on practice "rounds". Schiappa's located on Route 50/Rt158 intersection in O'Fallon, IL. Route 50 merges w/Interstate 64 for a while as it nears metro St. Louis. Walked 5 miles today - on an empty stomach.
http://www.schiappas.com/ofallon/challenge.htm Check contest rules with the link. "Regurgitates" is in one of the rules and a "stopper". And I am thinking that this could disturb the "casual diner" sitting nearby enjoying a meal and watching the contest. I bet they make money on practice "rounds". Schiappa's located on Route 50/Rt158 intersection in O'Fallon, IL. Route 50 merges w/Interstate 64 for a while as it nears metro St. Louis. Walked 5 miles today - on an empty stomach.
Tuesday, October 19, 2004
Lebanon, IL - 970
Tour De Stooges
"Come join us in May 2005 for the eighth edition of the Tour de Stooges bicycle tour at McKendree College in Lebanon, Ill. The Tour de Stooges consists of five routes ranging from 13 to 63 miles. Our routes are on lightly traveled rural roads in Southwestern Illinois. After the ride, enjoy the all-you-can-eat brunch buffet at McKendree College and all the Three Stooges films you can stand." "Slowly I turned . . step by step . . inch by inch . ."
Love to have the T-shirt. Walked 5 miles today on the trail. Moving west, "step by step". Enjoying the country and people. Via Virtual.
"Come join us in May 2005 for the eighth edition of the Tour de Stooges bicycle tour at McKendree College in Lebanon, Ill. The Tour de Stooges consists of five routes ranging from 13 to 63 miles. Our routes are on lightly traveled rural roads in Southwestern Illinois. After the ride, enjoy the all-you-can-eat brunch buffet at McKendree College and all the Three Stooges films you can stand." "Slowly I turned . . step by step . . inch by inch . ."
Love to have the T-shirt. Walked 5 miles today on the trail. Moving west, "step by step". Enjoying the country and people. Via Virtual.
Monday, October 18, 2004
Trenton, IL - 965 miles
Trenton--- A City of Beautiful Homes
Most visitors to this city find themselves describing it as a "city of beautiful homes." Its tree shaded streets and green lawns. Trenton's future is not in its past as is that of so many small cities. It is favored as a home for families who have lived in St. Louis or at Scott air force base. And handsome homes go back as far as men can remember. The houses of a century ago are still among today's most attractive homes. Trenton came into being on May 14, 1855 when it was plotted by Alva Lewis who had the rare vision to draw wide streets that gave charm and privacy. ATTN: "Partners Without Parents" meet each Wednesday, 7:30 at the High School on old Route 50. Walked 5 miles on treadmill this morning.
Most visitors to this city find themselves describing it as a "city of beautiful homes." Its tree shaded streets and green lawns. Trenton's future is not in its past as is that of so many small cities. It is favored as a home for families who have lived in St. Louis or at Scott air force base. And handsome homes go back as far as men can remember. The houses of a century ago are still among today's most attractive homes. Trenton came into being on May 14, 1855 when it was plotted by Alva Lewis who had the rare vision to draw wide streets that gave charm and privacy. ATTN: "Partners Without Parents" meet each Wednesday, 7:30 at the High School on old Route 50. Walked 5 miles on treadmill this morning.
Sunday, October 17, 2004
Branden Bell, Aviston, IL 960 miles
While passing through Aviston, IL, I noticed this: Branden Bell, Aviston, IL http://www.projo.com/cgi-bin/extra/terror/tribute/view.cgi?id=3727 A tribute and some local and national encourgement to this hero serving our country. I love small towns! Walked 5 miles on the treadmill this morning. It took about 1hr 10 minutes with warm up and warm down.
http://www.projo.com/cgi-bin/extra/terror/tribute/view.cgi?id=3727 A tribute and some local and national encourgement to this hero serving our country. I love small towns! Walked 5 miles on the treadmill this morning. It took about 1hr 10 minutes with warm up and warm down.
Saturday, October 16, 2004
Breese, IL 955 miles
Breese, IL http://www.city-data.com/city/Breese-Illinois.html 49.2 miles east of St. Louis.
Breese Dairy Queen: "We had thought about doing something with a cow because of dairy, but then I thought, `You never see an ugly penguin, so we decided on that. He holds a burger to remind people we offer more than just ice cream," "We ball and smash the burger ourselves, so it's fresh," "We only use fresh strawberries in shakes and sundaes", said Michele Mave, owner/operator. Sounds like a good place to stop and eat. There are some disadvantages to virtually walking America. Walked 5 miles on treadmill this morning- rainy and chilly outside.
http://www.city-data.com/city/Breese-Illinois.html 49.2 miles east of St. Louis.
Breese Dairy Queen: "We had thought about doing something with a cow because of dairy, but then I thought, `You never see an ugly penguin, so we decided on that. He holds a burger to remind people we offer more than just ice cream," "We ball and smash the burger ourselves, so it's fresh," "We only use fresh strawberries in shakes and sundaes", said Michele Mave, owner/operator. Sounds like a good place to stop and eat. There are some disadvantages to virtually walking America. Walked 5 miles on treadmill this morning- rainy and chilly outside.
Friday, October 15, 2004
Carlyle Lake - 950 Miles
Massagauga Rattlesnake The Eastern massasauga rattlesnake, an Illinois endangered species, is found at Carlyle Lake. This shy, retreating snake is, at an average length of less than 30 inches, the smallest of Illinois' venomous snakes. Massasauga's live in old fields, marshes, bogs and floodplain forests where they feed on small rodents. Few massasauga's remain in Illinois, due to the loss of prairie marshes, their preferred habitat.
Carlyle Lake - Largest man made lake in Illinios. If you want to catch something go to:"(Mamma) Lavish's Bait Shop, Carlyle Lake, IL" "All your bait and tackle needs. Minnows, crayfish, leaches, crawlers, shad, chicken livers, Geno's stink bait, Krazy blades, largest selection of tube jigs in Illinois. 1 mile from great fishing at Carlyle Lake and the Kaskaskia River." Walked 5 miles on trail - cool and windy
The Eastern massasauga rattlesnake, an Illinois endangered species, is found at Carlyle Lake. This shy, retreating snake is, at an average length of less than 30 inches, the smallest of Illinois' venomous snakes. Massasauga's live in old fields, marshes, bogs and floodplain forests where they feed on small rodents. Few massasauga's remain in Illinois, due to the loss of prairie marshes, their preferred habitat.
Carlyle Lake - Largest man made lake in Illinios. If you want to catch something go to:"(Mamma) Lavish's Bait Shop, Carlyle Lake, IL" "All your bait and tackle needs. Minnows, crayfish, leaches, crawlers, shad, chicken livers, Geno's stink bait, Krazy blades, largest selection of tube jigs in Illinois. 1 mile from great fishing at Carlyle Lake and the Kaskaskia River." Walked 5 miles on trail - cool and windy
Thursday, October 14, 2004
Walking West - 945 miles
WALKING AND THE USE OF CALORIES
Physical activity can increase the basal metabolic rate by approximately 10%. This increase can last for up to 48 hours after the completion of the activity. Physical activity assists in reducing the appetite. Weight loss will occur with decreased calory intake, increased metabolism, or both.
Walked five miles on trail today. Best workout for a while.
Physical activity can increase the basal metabolic rate by approximately 10%. This increase can last for up to 48 hours after the completion of the activity. Physical activity assists in reducing the appetite. Weight loss will occur with decreased calory intake, increased metabolism, or both.
Walked five miles on trail today. Best workout for a while.
Wednesday, October 13, 2004
Windy City - 940 miles
Walked 5.5 miles today on the trail. North of current location on Route 50 is Chicago, called the "Windy City". But not for the reason you might think. "New York Sun editor , Charles Dana, tired of hearing Chicagoans boast of the world's Columbian Exposition, dubbed Chicago the "Windy City". Chicago's average wind speeds -- 10.4 mph (16.7 km/h) -- are no greater than several other major American cities. For example, Boston has an average wind speed of 12.5 mph (20.1 km/h), and tops the list for the windiest large US city while New York City's Kennedy Airport averages 12.2 mph (19.6 km/h). Chicago is about middle of the pack for annual average wind speed for major US cities: Quote on walking: Everywhere is within walking distance if you have the time". Steven Wright.
Tuesday, October 12, 2004
Like the back of a huge animal
Illinois, The Prairie State. Note: highest point above sea level is 1, 235 feet (Charles Mound) Some info on the prairie in this state and some personal thoughts by early travlers : Prairie:Introduction. Walked 5 miles today. Took a day off yesterday.
Sunday, October 10, 2004
Tribute to Salem, IL 929.5
Eight and 1/2 miles past Salem, but there is one last thing I want to mention about this interesting town of 12,000, on Route 50, and its contributions to millions of G.I.s, including myself. TRIBUTE TO SALEM, IL: BIRTHPLACE OF THE GI BILL OF RIGHTS -- DURBIN (Extension of Remarks - April 20, 1994 The GI Bill has helped to educate 7.8 million veterans, helped 14 million buy homes, and enabled countless Americans to get back on their feet after returning from military service. Walked 4.5 miles at the Veterans Park in Clarksburg, WV
Saturday, October 09, 2004
John T. Scopes, Salem, IL -925
Salem has an interesting history. Home of John T. Scopes and William Jennings Bryant. The two men were years apart but would come together in 1925 to become two of the three most important people in one of America's famous legal cases. Know throughout the U.S. and world as the "Monkey Trial". In fact, books, plays, and a movie have been written about the trial and surrounding events. "Inherit the Wind" was the best know play, book and movie" (Movie staring Spencer Tracy) The following news story is taken from the front page of the Salem Republican dated June 11, 1925. "John Thomas Scopes, 24 years, indicted for teaching evolution in Dayton, Tenn., High School is present in New York securing counsel and advisers to face his trial, July 16th." One of the grand jurors who found the indictment suggested that hanging should be Scope's portion. "Scopes, it will be recalled, graduated with Salem High School class of 1919 on which occasion, Wm. Jennings Bryan delivered the address. [It will be recalled that Bryan was a prosecutor at the trial.]" I wonder if Bryan challenged the class "to thine own self be true". Scopes was found guilty and fined a hundred dollars. By the way, the third "famous" person was Clarence Darrow who represented Scopes, put Bryan on the stand and questioned his thoughts on "Genesis", techically winning the trial in a hostile southern astophere. Good drama, real life. Bryan took a nap and didn't wake up, five days after the trial. Scopes went on to lead a life of a private citizen and didn't profit from the event. Walked 7 miles today on the trail.
Friday, October 08, 2004
Three miles from Salem, IL
William Jennings Bryant
Born and raised in Salem, IL. Despite a long and distinguished political career, William Jennings Bryan is best known for the decisive defeats that he endured. He was nominated three times to represent the Democratic party as their presidential candidate. Three times he was defeated. (1896, 1900, 1904) Known for his quick wit and mastery of spoken language, Bryan was a stirring speaker. In 1896, he railed in support of the coinage of free silver and the end of the gold standard: "You shall not press down upon the brow of labor a crown of thorns. You shall not crucify mankind upon a cross of gold. Walked 6 miles on the trail today. Beautiful Day. Total miles - 918
Born and raised in Salem, IL. Despite a long and distinguished political career, William Jennings Bryan is best known for the decisive defeats that he endured. He was nominated three times to represent the Democratic party as their presidential candidate. Three times he was defeated. (1896, 1900, 1904) Known for his quick wit and mastery of spoken language, Bryan was a stirring speaker. In 1896, he railed in support of the coinage of free silver and the end of the gold standard: "You shall not press down upon the brow of labor a crown of thorns. You shall not crucify mankind upon a cross of gold. Walked 6 miles on the trail today. Beautiful Day. Total miles - 918
Thursday, October 07, 2004
Nearing Salem, IL 912 miles
A bit of Salem lore is the creation of Miracle Whip by a local restaurateur. Located at 100 North Washington was Max Crossett's Cafe. According to the story, Kraft bought the recipe known as Max's "X-tra Fine Salad Dressing" in 1931 for $300. It was renamed Kraft's Miracle Whip and introduced in 1933 and it became a national success within weeks. With its tagline "Salad Miracles with Miracle Whip Salad Dressing," Perhaps, "Uncle Max" should have sold out to Procter & Gamble. http://www.wackyuses.com/miracle.html Note: this weblog is "PG" rated and some "wackyuses" have been removed to protect the naive. Walked 6 miles on trail today.
Wednesday, October 06, 2004
On the road again - 906 miles
Walked 3 + 3 today for six miles. Not easy. "Life is Short", I heard this once again this evening. Wait! Life is the longest thing that any of us will ever do on this earth. Lincoln said from this part of Illinois, "I have walked slow, but I have never walked backward." Keep moving ahead, I guess he meant despite time & things moving against us. Lincoln's Failures/Greatness
Friday, October 01, 2004
Vacation
