A Day With Family On The Arkansas/Missouri Border

We spent today with our extended family. This happens every two years with this branch of the family, and as usual, it was a good time. Lots of food, conversation, and river play along the Current River. The kids pretty much spent the day in the river, as usual. The grownups kept an eye on the kids and visited with each other. We caught up on what cousins were up to, met new additions to the family, and generally had an enjoyable day.

Day 6, Sunday June 14

The Trip Home: Back To Illinois

Well, it was a fast week, full of adventure, and today we got to take the last leg home. Having done it many times before, we knew it was around ten hours, so we headed out by 9am, as usual. We always say earlier, but it’s hard to manage. This part of the journey is generally uneventful. We were all tired and ready to sleep in our own beds again and normally we decide to make a minimum amount of stops. Today we decided to mix it up a bit, and take a small detour. “Let’s visit Metropolis, home of Superman,” I suggested. Everyone said “OK, why not?”

The Man of Steel in Superman’s Hometown, Metropolis, Illinois

I expected a quiet town on a Sunday. I envisioned a fast group photo with Superman before getting back on the road. Little did we know that we would also meet Batman, Iron Man, Super Girl, the Joker, and many more super heroes! We had no idea that this was the weekend of the Superman Convention in Metropolis Illinois. Wow! We had unknowingly walked into an outdoor carnival, complete with contests for superheroes, villains and monsters. We wandered the town for an hour thoroughly enjoying ourselves. As the kids exclaimed, “It’s like Wizard World (a Chicago area comic book convention we go to every year), for Superman!” And yes, indeed, it was. We all agreed that Mr. Freeze was the best costume. If you’re are out there Mr. Freeze, we voted for you! It made for a fun side trip on a generally unexciting part of our vacation.

A fun whirlwind adventure. Four states: Illinois, Missouri, Arkansas, Kentucky. One more state to mark off our map as visited and explored. One more experience to mark off our list of things to try! One more adventure to add to our memories.

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Hot Springs, Arkansas

We made one more group breakfast, got everyone cleaned up and ready to go. As the kids put it, the shower was pretty small, but you didn’t feel like you would fall over. Always the optimists! And it had lots of hot water, which was nice. We checked out, and moved on our way. It was about a 40 minute drive to get to Hot Springs, then about 10 minutes to get to the park area. I think everyone else was expecting an actual park, but we knew this was a more urban setting. The Hot Springs are actually some of the historic bathhouses which have been restored and you can go through. There is one that the National Park Service runs, and a couple which are still functioning bathhouses. We didn’t have the time to take a bath, although it did sound nice. Maybe next time.

Sauna Contraptions, Fordyce Bath House, Hot Springs, Arkansas

We spent the time to get the kids their park ranger badges. This involved an extensive tour of the Fordyce House, which is the one the park service runs. We compared the architecture on the original houses, explored the rooms in the Fordyce House, saw where the springs feed into the structure, saw equipment used in old days and generally discovered where current spa services and physical therapy evolved from. Surround showers, steam rooms, massage tables, physical therapy equipment; it all started here. It would have been amazing in its prime. I am sure it was an experience like no other at that time.

As we were walking the promenade behind the bathhouses, a major storm started rolling in behind us. The rest of our group decided to call it a day and head back; we stopped at one of the filling stations to fill our jugs of water from the Hot Springs, then juggled the 140 degree jugs from hand to hand to try not to burn ourselves as we headed to the cars! We watched in amazement as vanloads of people would stop and fill multiple jugs of water and speed off. The water is free and it looked like some of these people were locals who must come fill jugs daily. Many people believe the waters have healing effects, but it is bizarre to watch all the same. The water was still hot hours later, amazingly. Maybe the locals just don’t want to pay for hot water.

Once we split up, the storm had pretty much passed us by, so our family went back out to the town for some gift shopping and then on to the mountain tower. The area around the park buildings is all shops, and we spent a little time finding some souvenirs, then decided to take a drive up the mountain for a different view of the town. We started with the North Mountain drive and went up in the mountain tower. This is an observation tower at the top of one of the mountains, where you take a glass elevator up to an observation deck. You can see for miles, and it’s gorgeous. You can see why this area is popular, it is very peaceful. You can see to Missouri and Oklahoma from up here, and in the early days of this settlement, it must have been a pretty awesome sight. Next we took the West Mountain Drive. You could see just as far, with many scenic outlooks. It was a pretty drive, worth the time. Next order of business, we all agreed, was food!

Natural hot spring, Hot Springs, Arkansas

We decided to find a local place to eat, a general requirement for us, so we drove the strip looking for something appealing. There were several pubs that looked OK, but we decided to go back to the spot that struck our fancy when we were souvenir shopping, Bubbalu’s, for burgers and dogs. Pretty basic fare, well done, in a quaint old building. We took a seat at the counter, ordered malts and burgers, and some excellent chili cheese fries! The food was all good, cooked from scratch (the burgers were not a frozen affair) and the service was extra friendly. You can’t ask for much more. And the building was fun, antique without being stuffy. I was amazed that the high ceilings made it open and airy, even with the hot humid weather all day. The doors were open, a breeze flowed through, and it was cool and inviting. We all agreed it was a great choice.

We felt like we had done the town justice. Although if we had another day we would try a bath. We headed out to meet back up with the rest of our group. We had a family affair the next day, so we needed to get back to our home base to prepare.

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3. Sifting for Treasure: Arkansas Diamond Mining Day Two

Kalahari Water Park, Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s tourism industry has a penchant for attracting national-level events, creating new attractions and expanding old favorites, and searching for ways to make the travel experience fresh and exciting year after year. And 2010 is no exception. Whether your ideal getaway is to be entertained, learn something new, get active or just reconnect with family and friends, you’ll find something new to experience in Wisconsin this year. So here’s a rundown of what’s coming in 2010.

Attractions and Exhibits

Dead Sea Scrolls and the Bible: Ancient Artifacts, Timeless Treasures

The largest temporary exhibit ever produced by the Milwaukee Public Museum brings together archaeological objects and manuscripts to tell a story 2,000 years in the making. Witness actual Dead Sea Scrolls and other early biblical artifacts to learn how transmission of these early writings has shaped the beliefs of Judaism and Christianity and influenced aspects of Islam. This limited engagement runs Jan. 22–June 6 (888–700-9069;  www.mpm.edu).

The Moving Wall

Vietnam Veterans and their families and supporters are invited to LZ Lambeau, a special welcome home celebration to be held at Lambeau Field in Green Bay on May 20–23. This touching event will include several days of concerts, reunions and exhibits, including The Moving Wall™, a traveling replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. The event kicks off with a motorcycle rally on May 21 starting in La Crosse and ending at the “landing zone” of Lambeau Field ( http://lzlambeau.org).

Stevens Point Sculpture Park

The 20-acre Stevens Point Sculpture Park, which will feature artwork from local, regional and national artists, celebrates its grand opening June 12. The park connects to the Green Circle Trail, a 30.5-mile hiking and biking trail that loops around the Stevens Point area through natural forests and wetlands. The park will build on the area’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors by hosting seasonal events and education programs year round (pointsculpturepark@hotmail.com; www.stevenspointsculpturepark.org).

Little Chute Windmill

The Little Chute Windmill is an authentic 1850s design from the province of North Brabant in the Netherlands where volunteer millers will operate the windmill and demonstrate for visitors the ancient process of grinding grain into flour. The groundbreaking is planned for spring with an anticipated opening in summer 2010. In addition, the Van Asten Visitor Center will feature exhibits on the history and legacy of Dutch settlement in the Fox River Valley and northeast Wisconsin (920–788-2629; www.littlechutewindmill.org).

Tourdot Winery

The newly-opened and family-owned Tourdot Winery in the Wisconsin Dells will be showcasing 10 wines made from California grapes. Additionally, visitors can tour the estate to see grapes maturing now that will be made into 2011’s wines. For those who prefer beer, Tourdot carries 25 different craft beers. Also new this year, there will be picnicking in the 36-acre forest that adjoins the vineyard (608–253-4400; www.tourdotwinery.com).

Key Ingredients: America By Food

The Wisconsin Humanities Council kicks off the decade with two programs that explore the human connection to our environment. Key Ingredients: America By Food, a traveling exhibition from the Smithsonian Institution’s Museum on Main Street program, looks at how culture and traditions impact the foods Americans produce, prepare, preserve and present at the table. The exhibits, a selection of artifacts, photographs and illustrations, will make stops in two Wisconsin communities in 2010: Reedsburg (Oct. 20–Dec. 3, 2010) and Rhinelander (Dec. 10–Jan. 21, 2011). The exhibit will make four more stops in River Falls, Westfield, Osseo and Brodhead in 2011.

Making it Home Film Festival

Also new from the Wisconsin Humanities Council is a partnership with the communities of Baraboo, Dodgeville, Milwaukee and the Chequamegon Bay area to bring the Making it Home Film Festival this March and April. Each community will present a weekend of events and films that reflect their own unique sense of place. More information about both events is available through the Wisconsin Humanities Council (608–262-0706;  www.wisconsinhumanities.org).

New and Noteworthy Events

Betty Boop Festival Wisconsin

If you’re a Betty Boop fan, don’t miss the official Betty Boop Festival Wisconsin to be held in Wisconsin Rapids on Aug. 6–8. The festival will mark the anniversary of Betty Boop’s animation debut on August 9, 1930, and honors Grim Natwick, a Wisconsin Rapids native and Betty’s original top animator at Fleischer Studios, for his lifelong achievements. The event will showcase an expanded Grim Natwick animation exhibit, scenic motorcycle tours, an animated film festival, visual art gallery and an animation art collectors show (bbfestivalwi@gmail.com).

92nd PGA Championship

The PGA Championship and its historic Wanamaker Trophy will return to Whistling Straits for the 92nd PGA Championship on Aug. 9–15. Be a part of history as the world’s premiere players once again test their skills on one of the most challenging venues in golf set along the shores of Lake Michigan. Tickets are currently on sale for this major championship featuring golf’s greatest. Fans are encouraged to purchase their tickets early as demand for the 2004 PGA Championship at Whistling Straits was unprecedented. New for 2010 will be a ticket upgrade opportunity and an updated junior ticket policy. Juniors, age 17 and under, will be allowed free access into the Championship Grounds with an accompanying ticketed adult. Each ticketed adult will be allowed four junior admissions to the PGA Championship at no additional charge (800–618-5535;  www.pga.com/pgachampionship/2010).

2010 Tall Ship Festival

Green Bay is one of only six ports in North America and the only port in Wisconsin to be honored as a host for the 2010 Tall Ship Festival when 12 vintage vessels will sail into the Port of Green Bay and dock on the shores of the Fox River on Aug. 13–15. Visitors can experience the history and romance of maritime life during ship tours and sails on these sailing vessels, including Wisconsin’s own flagship schooner the S/V Denis Sullivan. Entertainment and food round out this unique festival. The ships race to five ports on the Great Lakes after sailing from Toronto in the American Sail Training Association (ASTA) Tall Ships Challenge®, a race to encourage water preservation and protection (920–497-5664; www.tallshipgreenbay.com).

Wisconsin Original Cheese Festival

Indulge in America’s Dairyland at the second annual Wisconsin Original Cheese Festival at Madison’s Monona Terrace on Nov. 5–7. Taste hundreds of unique cow, goat and sheep milk cheeses at the Cheesemaker’s Gala. Get your ticket early as this event will be limited to 300 attendees. New this year is a Festival Marketplace that will showcase the state’s cheesemakers, dairies, wineries, microbrews, authors and artists in a farmer’s marketplace setting, where attendees may sample and purchase product. Offsite events include behind-the-scenes tours at nearby dairy farms and cheese-making facilities (608–261-4000;  www.wicheesefest.com).

Active Vacations

Cycle Southwest Wisconsin

Let Cycle Southwest Wisconsin be your guide to biking through southwest Wisconsin’s challenging rolling hills and picturesque farm land. A newly developed bike trail map details 28 loops that combine the area’s history and quaint small towns with excellent shopping, art and eateries. It’s no wonder the League of American Bicyclists ranked Wisconsin No. 2 in the nation for Bicycle Friendly States and several of the routes were selected by the Chicago 2016 Olympic Bid Committee. Free trail maps and details on biking events from May through September are available online (608–723-2125;  www.cyclesouthwestwisconsin.com).

Centurion Cycling Event

Experience your own Tour de France for a day right here in Wisconsin during the Centurion Cycling event taking place outside of Madison on Aug. 7–8. The course covers the beautiful but difficult hills of Blue Mounds State Park in western Dane County and is designed to appeal to the serious, competitive and recreational cyclist. Based on the European concept of gran fondos, the Centurion offers 25, 50 and 100 mile options enhanced with superior technical, medical and race support, traffic control, gourmet food stations, sports expo and training seminars. Wisconsin along with California and Colorado are the only locations offering this event (303–376-6362; www.centurioncycling.com).

Great Midwest Marathon and Endurance Festival

Elkhart Lake will host the Great Midwest Marathon and Endurance Festival, a new endurance competition that includes running, cycling, inline skating and mountain biking endurance competitions, May 29–31. To create a festive and family atmosphere for competitors and spectators alike, the sporting events are linked with evening activities and entertainment programs planned by Elkhart Lake’s resorts (877–355-3554;  www.allcommunityevents.com).

Lost Canyon Zip Line

Zip lines are becoming all the rage with thrill-seekers, and Wisconsin is right on the cusp of this trend. Visitors of the Wilderness Hotel & Golf Resort in Wisconsin Dells will find adventure in the new Lost Canyon Zip Line Canopy Tour, a zip line that takes riders over the tree canopy of Lost Canyon behind the resort. The zip line’s final run spans 900 feet in length and reaches speeds of 30 mph (608–253-9729;  www.wildernessterritory.com).

Gravity Trails in Door County

Another zip line, Gravity Trails in Door County, provides a birds-eye view of ponds and sand dunes in this Door County version of an “ewok” village in the trees (920–854-9292;  www.doorcountyzip.com).

Family Friendly Attractions

The Scorpion’s Tail, Wisconsin Dells

Always a leader in entertainment innovation, the Wisconsin Dells has added several new attractions to its inventory starting with “The Scorpion’s Tail” water slide ride at Noah’s Ark. Debuting on May 29, “The Scorpion’s Tail” is America’s first looping tube water slide and the tallest and largest of its kind in the world. Riders drop through a trap door below their feet and speed through a 45-degree loop in an enclosed, gravity-defying slide (608–254-6351; www.noahsarkwaterpark.com).

MagiQuest at Great Wolf Lodge

Fans of fantasy and wizardry will want to check out the new MagiQuest at Great Wolf Lodge in the Wisconsin Dells. Young adventurers use a magic wand that they can customize and keep to navigate through this four-story, Renaissance-themed interactive adventure. Children and adults are sure to be mystified (608–253-2222;  www.magiquest.com). Great Wolf is also currently offering a “Game, Stay & Play” package through March 31 that includes overnight accommodations in a Family Suite, MagiQuest passes, waterpark passes, Knuckleheads Indoor Amusement Park wristbands and a free game of bowling with shoe rental for every registered guest at a savings of $80.

Madison Children’s Museum

The Madison Children’s Museum is reopening Aug. 14 at its new location on Madison’s Capitol Square. This four-story museum, targeted to children up to age 12, will have more than three times the space of the museum’s last facility and features an art studio, rooftop terrace and a café. New exhibits include the Early Learning Gallery and Possibile-opolis, a city of art and science where anything can happen (608–256-6445;  www.madisonchildrensmuseum.org).

Lodging

The Green Leaf Inn

The Green Leaf Inn, a 19-room luxury bed and breakfast inn, will be the Midwest’s first all-green purpose built bed and breakfast when it opens the fall of 2010 in Delavan, according to owner Catherine McQueen and Fritz Kreiss. Their ultimate goal? To get as green as they can get. The Inn will adopt a wide-ranging list of over 50 green practices or technologies incorporating green energy sources, renewable and sustainable materials and practices, and environmentally responsible land and water use. Visitors can expect to see a wind turbine right on the property as well as The Eco-Vision Sustainable Learning Center that teaches green living practices (262–248-0948; www.thegreenleafinn.com).

Aloft Hotel

The just-opened, trendy Aloft Hotel is merely steps from Milwaukee’s scenic Riverwalk and the city’s top dining and brew pubs. Aside from the terrific modern design, this member of the Starwood Hotels family offers an alternative to luxury hotel brands like W. It’s a casual and affordable option that’s not short on amenities and service. This is the first Aloft property in Milwaukee and the first hotel constructed in the downtown area since 2001 (414–226-0122;e www.starwoodhotels.com/alofthotels).

Metropolis Resort

Opened in 2009, the Metropolis Resort is Eau Claire’s designer hotel where no two rooms are alike. It’s loaded with amenities and integrates the latest environmentally sensitive green practices into its operation. Adjacent to the hotel is Chaos Waterpark and Action City, which offers laser tag, mini-golf, batting cages, a climbing wall, bumper cars and a super-sized arcade (715–852-6000;  www.chaosresort.com).

Travelers looking for year round Wisconsin travel ideas, tips and events can become a fan on Facebook at facebook.com/travelwisconsin. For Wisconsin travel planning information and free travel guides, travelers can visit TravelWisconsin.com or call 1–800-432-TRIP.

Photo by amanderbear

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“Everybody has a favorite car from their childhood that brings back fond memories,” said Rick Iacoboni, marketing director at the Mentor Museum of Speed. “For me it’s T-birds. For others, it could be Mopars, Hemis, Vettes, Cudas or Camaros. There’s a favorite car here for everybody.”

Unlike most museums, these cars are completely restored and 100 percent ready to be driven at all times. The vehicles on display are rotated on a weekly basis, so there’s always something new to see.

From the working repair shop, to the race trace track that circles the collection, to the automotive art hanging on the walls, you’ll spend hours indulging your love affair with the automobile. There’s even a free video arcade just in case everyone in your group doesn’t have 100 percent, high-octane pumping through their veins. Whatever your passion, plan to make a day of it.

Located just east of downtown Cleveland, the Mentor Museum of Speed is open Monday — Friday from 10:00 a.m. — 5:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. — 4:00 p.m. Daily admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children age 12 and under. Individual year memberships are $50 and a lifetime membership is $99. The group rate (15 or more) is $8/person.

“Museum memberships make great gifts for hard-to-buy people, especially if you are a car enthusiast,” Iacoboni said. “Additionally, we are an event destination – car clubs, weddings, fundraisers, corporate, etc.”

For more information about the Mentor Museum of Speed, visit www.MentorMuseumOfSpeed.com or contact Rick Iacoboni at 440–350-1480 or rick.iacoboni@bestofshowautomotive.com.

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Ford’s Theatre, Washington D.C.

Ford’s Theatre Society announced the spring and summer 2010 schedule for its popular “History on Foot” walking tours, which are guided by actors playing characters from Civil War Washington.

The tours begin outside of the historic Ford’s Theatre (511 10th Street NW) and continue through downtown Washington, D.C. Beginning March 24, 2010, Ford’s will offer the assassination conspiracy walking tour “Investigation: Detective McDevitt,” including two tours on April 15, the anniversary of Lincoln’s assassination. The popular “A Free Black Woman: Elizabeth Keckly” tour will begin April 3, 2010, and continue through August.

“Investigation: Detective McDevitt“ written by Richard Hellesen; directed by Mark Ramont

Join Detective James McDevitt as he revisits and reexamines the sites and clues from the investigation into the Lincoln Assassination Conspiracy. This tour lasts approximately 2 hours and makes at least eight stops. The distance walked is approximately 1.4 miles from Ford’s Theatre to the White House.

Tours are offered at 6:30 p.m. on March 24, 31, April 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29, May 1, 5, 6, 8, 12, 13, 15, 19, 20, 22, 26, 27, 29, June 2, 9, 11, 12, 16, 18, 19, 23, 25, 26, 30, July 2, 3, 7, 9, 10, 14,16, 17, 21, 23, 24, 28, 30, 31, August 4, 6, 7, 11, 13, 14, 18, 20, 21, 25, 27 and 28; and at 10:15 a.m. on March 27, April 3, 10, 15, 17, 24, May 22 and July 3. March and April tour dates are currently on sale at fords.org. Tour dates for May-August 2010 will become available in March.

“A Free Black Woman: Elizabeth Keckly” written by Jennifer L. Nelson; directed by Patrick Torres

Join Elizabeth Keckly, free black woman and confidante to First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln, as she tells the story of her friendship with the Lincoln family and of her efforts to help former slaves find their way in newly free Washington City. This tour lasts approximately 90 minutes and the distance walked is about 1.5 miles. Tours are offered at 11:15 a.m. on Saturdays April 3, 10, 17 and 24, May 1, 15, 22 and 29.  Tours are at 7 p.m. on Saturdays June 12, 19 and 26, July 10, 17, 24 and 31, August 7, 14, 21 and 28. Tickets for the Elizabeth Keckly walking tour are available for sale at fords.org.

Tickets

Tickets for History on Foot are $12 for individuals and $10 for groups of 20 or more. Once tickets go on sale, individual tickets can be reserved through Ticketmaster at (202) 397-SEAT or by visiting fords.org. Groups of 20 or more may reserve tickets by calling (202) 638‑2367.

Ford’s Theatre Society

Since it reopened its doors in 1968, more than a hundred years after the April 14, 1865, assassination of President Abraham Lincoln, Ford’s Theatre has been one of the most visited sites in the nation’s capital. Ford’s Theatre has enthralled visitors because of its unique place in United States history, and its mission to celebrate the legacy of Abraham Lincoln and explore the American experience through theatre and education. For its accomplishments, the organization was honored in 2008 with the National Medal of Arts, the highest award given by the U.S. government to artists, arts institutions and arts patrons.

For more information on Ford’s Theatre and the Ford’s Theatre Society, please visit fords.org.

Photo by wallyg

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Sock Monkey Madness

Recently, I took the family to Rockford to visit the Sock Monkey Madness Convention at Midway Village.

Sock Monkeys bring joy to our hearts. They bring out an inexplicable desire to cuddle them and love them. You just want to take every stray Sock Monkey home and give it a place to live.

Before the Sock Monkey Madness convention, I didn’t know that home for Sock Monkeys was Rockford, Illinois. We learned that Rockford once had a thriving knitting industry, and out of that industry came the Rockford Red Heel socks, and ultimately, Sock Monkeys. We also learned, that there are a lot of Sock Monkey lovers around!

The display was a great mix of old and new. The history of the knitting industry which came out of Rockford, Illinois, and stemmed the original Sock Monkey dolls during the the early 1900’s was well documented. The dolls are made from original Rockford Red Heel socks, and have become a very recognizable icon of “Americana.” Sock Monkeys are still collected and loved worldwide. The socks are still sold today as basic work socks and continue to include instructions on making your own Sock Monkey.

Attendees were able to sign up in advance to make their very own Sock Monkey. The two rooms set aside for the work were packed with people when we walked through. Another booth offered a Sock Monkey Tattoo service! For a small fee, visitors could have a “Mom” heart tattoo sewn on their Sock Monkey’s arm, just like in the recent Kia Sorento car commercial.

A large  assortment of Sock Monkeys and their wares were also available from a wide range of vendors. Intermingled with the vendor booths were tables full of fabric and crafting supplies where industrious crafters could make outfits and accessories for their Monkeys. It was hard to choose only one memento of the weekend!

The Midway Village Museum was a perfect venue, showing a tie to the history of this Midwest town. The Village represents a typical rural town in Northern Illinois at the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century.  The Village’s historical structures include a general store, hardware store, print shop, blacksmith shop, schoolhouse, town hall, police station, plumbing shop, bank, hotel, hospital, fire station, church, barber shop, law office, two barns, and four farm houses. If you take a trip to the annual convention, make sure you take time to explore the village while you’re there.

If you love Sock Monkey, or just love some good old fashioned “Americana,” watch for Sock Monkey Madness next year in Rockford, and bring home your very own.

photo by ejourna

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Graceland, Memphis, Tennessee

The year-long celebration of Elvis Presley’s 75th Birthday kicked into high gear on March 1 with the grand opening of “Elvis Presley: Fashion King,” at Graceland. The exhibit is the first of its kind at Elvis’ home in Memphis, and explores fashion trends ushered in by the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

“Elvis Presley: Fashion King” showcases everything from the king’s handmade shirts and casual suits to his flashy jewelry and shoes, giving visitors a first-hand look at how rock ‘n’ roll royalty dressed. Visitors will see the evolution of Elvis’ outfits, from an artist’s sketch to the final product, and how these custom creations were made. The exhibit provides visitors with the feeling that they are peeking into Elvis’ personal closet. There are casual suits, top coats, hats, scarves, more than 50 shirts and many accessories, including a custom necklace featuring more than 220 diamonds and a 11.5-carat diamond solitaire ring.

“Elvis Presley: Fashion King” will be open through March of 2012. It is one of three new exhibits to open at Graceland in 2010, allowing visitors to the National Historic Landmark the opportunity to explore the various sides of Elvis’ life, from his trend-setting style to his simple upbringing.

A special exhibit opened on Elvis’ 75th birthday on January 8, 2010, chronicling key portions of Elvis’ life before he became an international singing sensation. Starting with his birth in 1935, the exhibit “From Tupelo to Memphis,” follows the future King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s path through high school graduation and his life as a delivery truck driver, prior to the launch of his music career. The exhibit gives fans a glimpse at rarely seen artifacts, such as photos of Elvis from his childhood, report cards and one of Elvis’ first pay stubs as a delivery truck driver before making his first recording at Sun Studio on July 5, 1954.

Also opening as part of the year-long birthday celebration is a special exhibit featuring Elvis’ iconic stage costumes from 1969–1977. This exhibit charts the evolution of the design of Elvis’ stage wear, popularized during his Las Vegas engagements and concert tours. Inspired by Elvis’ great interest in karate, simple wool gabardine suits were engineered with tunic-style tops and long, karate-style belts knotted to one side with the ends dangling from the hip. More than 20 of these costumes, now considered works of art, will be on display throughout 2010 in this special exhibit, which is included as part of the ticketed VIP Tour of Graceland.

In addition to these new exhibits, visitors can tour the Graceland mansion and 14-acre property, where they can follow in Elvis’ footsteps as they enjoy an audio-guided tour featuring commentary and stories by Elvis and his daughter Lisa Marie. This is where Elvis lived, relaxed and spent time with his friends and family. The Graceland Mansion tour includes Elvis’ living room, music room, parents’ bedroom, dining room, kitchen, TV room, pool room and the famous Jungle Room.

Graceland is open for daily tours year round. During the spring and summer seasons, hours of operation are Monday — Saturday: 9:00 AM — 5:00 PM and Sunday: 10:00 AM — 4:00 PM. There are three ticket options to tour Elvis Presley’s Graceland with the VIP Tour, the Platinum Tour or Mansion Tour.

For more information about making travel plans for Memphis & Graceland, visit Elvis.com or call to make reservations.

Photo by Pictophile

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National Museum of the United States Air Force, Dayton, Ohio

A new exhibit focused on flight nurses during World War II opened March 3 at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force.

The Winged Angels: U.S. Army Air Forces Flight Nurses in World War II exhibit, located in the museum’s Air Power Gallery, tells the story of the 500 Army nurses who served as members of 31 medical air evacuation transport squadrons during the war. It highlights such women as 2nd Lt. Elsie S. Ott, 1st Lt. Suella Bernard, 1st Lt. Aleda E. Lutz and 1st Lt. Mary L. Hawkins.

“From World War II to the present, an amazing and interesting history illustrates the courage, professionalism and dedication of our nursing personnel and a legacy that endures today,” said Maj. Gen. Kimberly A. Siniscalchi, Assistant Air Force Surgeon General, Medical Force Development and Nursing Services. “Our superb flight nurses, technicians and critical care air transport teams have rightfully earned the title ‘Angels of the Battlefield.’”

The exhibit includes several interesting artifacts, such as an original flight nurse blue uniform and all four variations of the flight nurse wings. Also on display are the uniform of Lt. Bernard, who was the only nurse known to have participated in a glider combat mission during WWII, and a flight jacket that belonged to Lt. Hawkins, who received the Distinguishing Flying Cross for her life-saving efforts caring for 24 patients after surviving a crash-landing in a C-47.

“These flight nurses were really part of a revolution in military medical care,” said Terry Aitken, the museum’s senior curator. “The introduction of flight nurses and air evacuation made it possible to save more lives than ever before, and this exhibit allows us to share the rich story of these brave women with our visitors. The flight nurses who served during World War II established a standard that continues today.”

The opening of Winged Angels at the start of Women’s History Month gives museum visitors another chance to see the contributions women have made to the Air Force over the years. Other museum exhibits focused specifically on women include the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) exhibit in the Air Power Gallery and a tribute dedicated to flight nurse Mary Spivak, which will be part of the renovated Korean War exhibit area.

About the National Museum of the United States Air Force

The National Museum of the United States Air Force is located on Springfield Street, six miles northeast of downtown Dayton. It is open seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day). Admission and parking are free.

Photo by OZinOH

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Reflections of Chicago, Cloud Gate

Put away the warm winter clothes and say hello to springtime in Chicago! Spring is the perfect time to explore all that Chicago has to offer. With an array of activities and events including art exhibits, sporting events and world-renowned theater, Chicago is in full bloom this season.

Visitors to the city are invited to make their first stop the Visitor Information Center in the Chicago Cultural Center, located at 78 East Washington Street. For more information on visiting Chicago this spring, or to book accommodations, visit www.explorechicago.org or call 877-CHICAGO.

Special Events

The Magnificent Mile is not only home to numerous restaurants, shops and hotels but also to thousands of tulips that bloom each spring. Tulips on the Magnificent Mile takes place from April 15 through May 31, 2010. Celebrate the season and view the tulip gardens that line the Magnificent Mile while taking advantage of exclusive offers from the businesses along the colorful street, as well as special tulip-themed activities, including the Magnificent Mile Floral Market over Mother’s Day Weekend (May 8–9).

The Chicago Early Music Festival (CEMF) debuts in April 2010 as the City’s first festival celebrating music of the Medieval, Renaissance and Baroque eras. The six-day collaborative festival, presented by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and the Chicago Office of Tourism, kicks off on April 20 and runs through April 25. Representing an unprecedented collaboration among the City of Chicago and some of Chicago’s leading Early Music ensembles and organizations, CEMF features free and ticketed performances; lectures and master classes by internationally renowned musicians at venues throughout the city including Millennium Park; and community events.

Each year, the Lincoln Park and Garfield Park Conservatories hold their annual Spring Flower Shows. These free events allow visitors the opportunity to experience a bit of Chicago floral history. The flower shows feature the descendants of Azaleas that bloomed in 1893 at the World’s Columbian Exposition. At this year’s events, there will also be a selection of spring flowering annuals and spring flowering perennials. The flower shows continue through May 9, 2010.

Grab the old mitt and head out to the ball park! The Major League Baseball season kicks off on April 5, 2010. Watch the 2008 American League Central Division champions, the Chicago White Sox, play their home opener at U.S. Cellular Field. With tasty ball park food and original features like the Pontiac Fundamentals, an interactive area especially for kids, U.S. Cellular is fun for the entire family. Or experience a bit of history and head up north to baseball’s 2nd oldest stadium, Wrigley Field to watch the 2008 National League Central Division champions, the Chicago Cubs, take on their National League rivals. The Cubs open their home season on Monday, April 12 against a perennial Midwest rival — the Milwaukee Brewers.

Art enthusiasts should head to the Merchandise Mart from April 30 – May 3 to attend Artropolis 2010, Chicago’s celebration of art, antiques and culture. Consisting of Art Chicago, NEXT and The Merchandise Mart International Antiques Fair, Artropolis once again features something for everyone — from the novice art enthusiast to the veteran collector.

There’s no better way to take advantage of Chicago’s nickname, “The Windy City” than with Mayor Daley’s Kids & Kites Festival at Cricket Hill in Lincoln Park. This festival allows children to decorate and fly their own kites with kite kits. Taking place on May 1, this free event also offers face painting, storytelling and crafts.

The 14th Annual Celtic Fest Chicago begins a new tradition in Millennium Park this Mother’s Day weekend, May 8 and 9. The festival brings artists from around the world to Chicago to celebrate the culture of the seven ancient Celtic nations. Celtic Fest Chicago features a full line-up of world-class entertainment both days, including the Celtic Art Fair; traditional and contemporary Celtic music and dance; the popular bagpipe parade and Harp and Uilleann Pipe area; a Men in Kilts Contest; traditional Celtic dancing; and Celtic music school performers from the Chicago area.

Commemorate Memorial Day Weekend in Chicago. As one of the largest events of its kind in the country, the Chicago Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony and Parade honors all who have given their lives for their country. During this event, the City of Chicago will recognize the Illinois Gold Star families. The celebration will begin at the Eternal Flame in Daley Plaza with the parade on State Street kicking off at noon on May 29, 2010.

Upcoming Museum Events

Mammoths and Mastodons: Titans of the Ice Age, an exploration of these fascinating creatures, premiers at Chicago’s Field Museum March 5 and runs through September 6, 2010, before embarking on a four-year tour of 10 venues in North America and overseas. The exhibition is geared for all ages and is an experience the whole family will enjoy.

Visit the DuSable Museum of African American History from January 23 through April 4, 2010 for an interactive multimedia exhibition, Freedom’s Sisters, and learn about 20 African American women who helped advance civil rights in America. From historical figures to contemporary leaders, discover these extraordinary but often unsung heroines who have sought equality for all Americans.

Matisse: Radical Invention, 1913 – 1917, at the Art Institute of Chicago explores the paintings of Henri Matisse from the time between his 1913 return from Morocco and his 1917 departure for Nice, considered to be his most most demanding, experimental, and enigmatic. The exhibition opens on March 20 and runs though June 6, 2010.

Step inside a 40-foot tornado and feel the vapor whirl around you. See a 20-foot bolt of lightning crackle over your head. Trigger an avalanche. Unleash a tsunami wave. It’s all possible beginning March 18, 2010, as the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago unveils Science Storms, an unprecedented and dramatic permanent exhibit that reveals the extraordinary science behind some of nature’s most powerful and compelling phenomena—tornadoes, lightning, fire, tsunamis, sunlight, avalanches and atoms in motion.

Theatrical Highlights

One of Broadway’s most celebrated new shows begins performances in Chicago March 18, 2010 at the Ford Center for the Performing Arts, Oriental Theatre. Based on the international smash-hit film, Billy Elliot the Musical is a joyous, exciting and feel-good celebration of one boy following his heart and making his dreams come true. Full of life, laughter, astonishing dancing and unforgettable music, this uplifting experience is brought to life by the Tony Award winning creative team: director Stephen Daldry, choreographer Peter Darling and writer Lee Hall, along with music legend Sir Elton John.

Four Chicago theaters, Steppenwolf Theatre, Goodman Theatre, Victory Gardens and Chicago Shakespeare Theater, have all received the prestigious Regional Tony Award, more than any other city in the nation. Spring 2010 highlights at these theaters include:

• Goodman Theatre — True History of the Johnstown Flood, the devastating flood of 1889 is the backdrop for this world premiere by Rebecca Gilman. March 13-April 18.

• Steppenwolf Theatre Company — Endgame, with a cast including William Petersen in Samuel Beckett’s absurd comic masterpiece. April 1 – June 6.

• Victory Gardens — The Lost Boys of Sudan, Three boys of the Dinka tribe flee the horrors of war and end up in Fargo, North Dakota. March 19-April 25.

• Chicago Shakespeare Theater — The Taming of the Shrew, Shakespeare’s playfully provocative battle of the sexes pits the shrewish Katharina against the fortune-seeking Petruchio—but even now the verdict is still out on who tames whom. April 7 – June 6.

Farmers Markets

The main components of a healthy and balanced diet are fruits and vegetables and what better place to buy your fresh fruits and vegetables as well as condiments, preserves and seasonings than at Chicago’s Downtown Farmstand. Located at 66 E Randolph Street in downtown Chicago, the farmstand features local products grown or produced within 250 miles of Chicago. The farmstand also hosts programs and activities such as lunchtime demonstrations and discussions between local growers and Chicago residents.

Searching for fresh fruits and vegetable in Chicago couldn’t be simpler at farmers markets that are found throughout the city. This May, the Mayor’s Office of Special Events and Country Financial present the 31th anniversary of Chicago Farmers Markets. Markets can be found in Daley Plaza, Federal Plaza, Lincoln Park and additional locations in the metropolitan area and they continue through October.

Green City Market, celebrating it’s 12th season, is Chicago’s only year round farmer’s market. In addition to over 60 sustainable and/or organic farmers and producers, Green City Market also offers educational programs including chef demonstrations; a kids program, Club Sprouts, which encourages children to sample produce; Savor the Season, highlighting products at the height of their taste and availability; and much more. Located outdoors May – October at the south end of Lincoln Park, (and indoors in the winter months at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum) Green City Market is open every Wednesday and Saturday from 7:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. (with limited winter hours).

Chicago’s first and only year-round, European-inspired indoor market gives visitors and locals convenient, permanent and personal access to nearly 30 local artisans, farmers and purveyors. Chicago French Market offers fresh ingredients for cooking at home, delicious grab-and-go options for breakfast, lunch and dinner, light snacks, picnics, easy party planning for home and office settings, plus meaningful gift ideas, all in one convenient location at 131 North Clinton Street.

Visitors and Chicagoans planning to entertain out-of-town guests can receive Chicago brochures, reserve hotel accommodations and receive trip-planning assistance by calling toll-free 1.877.CHICAGO (1.877.244.2246), or visiting www.explorechicago.org. Brochures and information on Chicago’s events and activities are also available at the Visitor Information Centers. The centers are located at Chicago Water Works, 163 East Pearson Street at Michigan Avenue and the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 East Randolph Street. The TTY toll-free number for the hearing impaired is 1.866.710.0294.

The Chicago Office of Tourism (@explorechicago) provides a seven-day-a-week Twitter Concierge Service offering advice and suggestions about the city. Visitor service representatives answer questions and provide information with a focus on free and discounted events and activities in neighborhoods throughout Chicago.

The Chicago Office of Tourism, a division of the Department of Cultural Affairs, is the official City agency dedicated to promoting Chicago to domestic and international visitors and to providing innovative visitor programs and services.

Photo by eJourna

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If you answered “no” to these questions, it’s time for a visit to Missouri, a state rich in African-American culture and a great location to learn about the people who struggled to gain freedom, fought to make contributions to society, put their own stamp on a generation and simply wanted to get in the game.

Old Courthouse, St. Louis, Missouri. Photo circa 1862

The Old Courthouse in St. Louis, www.nps.gov/jeff/planyourvisit/och.htm plays an important role in the history of African-Americans in Missouri and in American history. It was the site of the first two stages of the Dred and Harriet Scott freedom trial, which began in 1847, sparking debates that divided the nation and playing a central role in the beginning of the Civil War.

If you’d like to walk the halls where the Scotts’ battle for freedom began (roughly 300 other people sued to earn their freedom at the courthouse, too), view a display about the trial or watch a video featuring an interview with one of the Scotts’ descendants, visit the Old Courthouse, which is part of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial. It is open from 8 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. daily and admission is free.

George Washington Carver — One of 20th Century’s greatest scientists

The freedom Scott sought was something Carver enjoyed and his early life is interpreted at the George Washington Carver National Monument, www.nps.gov/gwca/index.htm, located on the property where Moses and Susan Carver lived just outside of Diamond in Southwest Missouri. It was at this site, once a working family farm, where Carver’s love for science and the outdoors was born.

Although he sought to further his education, he often was denied access to schools because of his color. But he persevered and earned a master’s degree in agriculture in 1896 — the same year Booker T. Washington asked him to head the Agriculture Department at the Tuskegee Institute.

“It was quite an achievement at that time,” says Diane Eilenstein, a Park Ranger at the Carver National Monument. “That’s an inspiring story in itself.” Spanning 240 acres, all of which is considered the monument to Carver, the park focuses on Carver’s first love: the outdoors. The monument features the mile-long Carver Trail, the Carver Family Cemetery and the 1881 Carver House.

Additionally, park staffers conduct hands-on experiments in plant science at an on-site lab. Tours are offered daily at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., and a visitor center and museum are open daily from 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. The Carver Monument also will host special films on African-American history during January and February.

Scott Joplin — A visionary in music

While Carver was a pioneer in the field of science, Scott Joplin was a visionary in music. His ability to combine musical styles earned him the moniker “The King of Ragtime.” Today, Joplin’s life and times are preserved by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources at the Scott Joplin House State Historic Site, www.MoStateParks.com/scottjoplin.htm in St. Louis.

The sounds of Joplin’s music still fill the air at this home, where Joplin lived with his wife, Belle, and produced some of his better-known works, including the “The Entertainer” (featured in the movie, “The Sting,” Oscar winner for Best Picture of 1973).

“This site is an interpretation of him, his music, and Ragtime music,” said Sue Holst, an information officer with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources Division of State Parks. “We’ve even recreated what we call the new Rosebud Café, which interprets a café or music hall that would have been in existence during his era.”

The Scott Joplin House State Historic Site is open from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday through February. From March — October, hours are 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon — 4 p.m. Sunday. Tours are offered every hour. And if you enjoy Joplin’s music, make a trip to Sedalia, home of the annual Scott Joplin Ragtime Festival, www.ScottJoplin.org/. This year’s event is set for June 2–6 and will mark the festival’s 30th year.

You’ll find another area that pays tribute to the contributions of African-Americans by visiting Kansas City’s museums at 18th and Vine, home of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and the American Jazz Museum.

During his life, Kansas City’s John J. “Buck” O’Neil played for and managed the Kansas City Monarchs, the city’s Negro Leagues franchise. Today, a sculpture of O’Neil looms over a field of legends depicted on a replica baseball diamond at the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, www.NLBM.com/s/index.cfm.

O’Neil’s story is just one of many told at the museum, where guests must earn the right to set foot on the field by reading and learning more about the game’s history, great players and businessmen. As you enter, take note of the chicken wire that separates you from the field when you first walk in: That’s how most African-Americans were segregated at ballparks.

Before stepping onto the field, you’ll have the chance to read about greats like Satchel Paige and James “Cool Papa” Bell, who was so fast, even Olympic champion Jesse Owens wouldn’t race him around the base paths.

The museum is open 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, and noon — 6 p.m. Sunday.

The same building also houses the American Jazz Museum, www.AmericanJazzMuseum.com where displays focus on Louie Armstrong, Charlie Parker, Ella Fitzgerald and Duke Ellington. At each station in this modern facility, information about the featured musicians and his or her contributions to the genre is presented, and you’ll find listening stations to hear them in action. And while the American Jazz Museum has plenty of information about the history of jazz, it also plays a vital role in today’s jazz scene.

Inside the museum are the Blue Room jazz club, where some of the country’s hottest acts perform, and the Gem Theater, a 500-seat performance venue. The American Jazz Museum also is open 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday.

Elsewhere around Missouri, you’ll find a variety of locations where the history and culture of African-Americans is depicted or interpreted. Among them is the Black Archives in St. Joseph, www.StJosephMuseum.org/black_archives.htm where displays focus on the Underground Railroad, desegregation and African-American history in the St. Joseph area. An on-site museum also includes the area’s African-American Hall of Fame. The Black Archives are open 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, and 1 p.m.- 5 p.m. Sunday.

If you’re near Missouri’s capital, Jefferson City, you’ll find a couple of opportunities to learn more about African-American history in the Show-Me State.

At the Missouri State Museum, which is operated by DNR and located in the Capitol, there’s a special display called “Slavery’s Echoes” where quotes from interviews with former slaves give first-hand accounts of working conditions, family life, housing and treatment they endured. Also in the display, you’ll find “hands-on” artifacts like shackles and clothing, along with an audio component that allows you to hear stories from the aforementioned interviews.

Jefferson City is also home to Lincoln University, one of the nation’s historically black colleges. Lincoln University was founded in 1866 by Civil War soldiers from the 62nd and 65th Colored Infantry, many of whom were Missourians, with the goal of providing higher education to freed African-Americans. Today, you can walk through the picturesque campus and visit the Soldiers Memorial Plaza, which pays tribute to the university’s founders.

African-American soldiers in the Civil War also are the focus of another important Missouri State Historic Site being developed by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources Division of State Parks. The site is associated with the Battle of Island Mound and will showcase the area near the battlefield where African-American soldiers first fought in the Civil War.

“That’s a pretty major interpretative find,” Holst said of the site. “It’s significant not only statewide, but nationally.”

This 40-acre park, located southwest of Butler in Bates County, was home to what was called “Fort Africa,” a house that served as the operating base for the soldiers of the First Kansas Colored Infantry. The men of this infantry engaged in battle nearly three months before President Lincoln’s administration approved the enlistment of African-American fighting units. The Missouri State Parks Foundation currently is leading a campaign to raise money to develop this site.

For more information about African-American history, or to receive a free copy of the 2010 Missouri Travel Guide, log onto www.VisitMO.com.

Photo by army.arch

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