Science Center
The Wooten Brothers Jammin' Out
A few more to come!
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Sunday, March 17, 2013
Day 9 - The Final Day
Then: The brothers had seen the Warhol Museum and then obtained gas, bottled waters and breakfast foods to prepare for their trip. You left the boys as they were going to bed to make sure they could wake up early for their final day of traveling.
Now: The Mission: Travel to Fallingwater for an 8:30am in-depth tour, get food somewhere and then get back to Dunkirk, NY for Pizza and Wings! Woooo! End of trip.
The alarm screamed, rang, wailed and squawked... the boys hit snooze. Again and again the boys were told to wake up, again and again they did not listen. Phil determined he had to shower in order to wake himself, doing so he came out to see Tim had dressed and packed up. The brothers quickly gathered their supplies and headed out the door, checking out of their hotel a few minutes later than they had planned.
Now the boys hoped the gps didn't have issues guiding them out of Pittsburgh and onward to Fallingwater, as they had had issues while trekking to Big Jims the other day. They typed in the address and were off, of course they had issues... multiple issues. "Recalculating" was a four letter word as the brothers approached a fork or three in the roads of Pittsburgh. Finally they got out and sped their way along to make up for lost time, their waters and honey buns disappeared along the way. Way out in the boonies, the boys found themselves a few minutes early to arrive at the house's grounds, they checked in and got coffee at the cafe.
Melissa, their wonderful tour guide, escorted the boys around the residence and shared with them tales of Wright and Edgar Kaufmann's relationship to the house. The brothers oozed over the house, every detail was impeccable and so much of the design was something they would have never thought of. Images of Wright's work do not do it any justice, visit for yourself and be astounded. Phil and Tim visited the shop afterward and wanted to buy everything. There were lamps from inside the building as well as ornaments and books from Frank's designs, all things the boys gushed over. While walking the property taking photos the boys resolved to donate to the conservation association to help with the upkeep of Falling water, in doing so they earned the title of "Friends of Fallingwater" and complimentary walking sticks (a nod to Edgar Kaufmann Sr.).
Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater:
After Fallingwater any other sights were kind of non-comparable... so whatever. Here are a few. Tim turned off his camera for the rest of the trip. They got McDonalds for lunch, they didn't much care for sitting down at a restaurant, they just wanted to get home. Tim got a Big Mac, Phil got Nuggets.
Sights:
When the boys got home they were greeted by cute little Hayden, Phil's daughter & Tim's niece, and the wonderful Jen! Soon after they arrived their mother came over and Phil called the Mary's Deli to order pizza and wings. It was good to be back, they had a long trip, had good times, shared good food, and had many new stories and inside jokes to tell. Sadly... Dunkirk/Fredonia had no DER WAFFLE HAUZADERKADAR, but this sadness would soon pass.
One more post to follow, it will include videos of the Megacavern, the tesla coil, the weird machines from the science center, the boys' surreal night at 3rd and Lindsley and the waterfalling of Fallingwater.
Peace out space cowboy.
Now: The Mission: Travel to Fallingwater for an 8:30am in-depth tour, get food somewhere and then get back to Dunkirk, NY for Pizza and Wings! Woooo! End of trip.
The alarm screamed, rang, wailed and squawked... the boys hit snooze. Again and again the boys were told to wake up, again and again they did not listen. Phil determined he had to shower in order to wake himself, doing so he came out to see Tim had dressed and packed up. The brothers quickly gathered their supplies and headed out the door, checking out of their hotel a few minutes later than they had planned.
Now the boys hoped the gps didn't have issues guiding them out of Pittsburgh and onward to Fallingwater, as they had had issues while trekking to Big Jims the other day. They typed in the address and were off, of course they had issues... multiple issues. "Recalculating" was a four letter word as the brothers approached a fork or three in the roads of Pittsburgh. Finally they got out and sped their way along to make up for lost time, their waters and honey buns disappeared along the way. Way out in the boonies, the boys found themselves a few minutes early to arrive at the house's grounds, they checked in and got coffee at the cafe.
Melissa, their wonderful tour guide, escorted the boys around the residence and shared with them tales of Wright and Edgar Kaufmann's relationship to the house. The brothers oozed over the house, every detail was impeccable and so much of the design was something they would have never thought of. Images of Wright's work do not do it any justice, visit for yourself and be astounded. Phil and Tim visited the shop afterward and wanted to buy everything. There were lamps from inside the building as well as ornaments and books from Frank's designs, all things the boys gushed over. While walking the property taking photos the boys resolved to donate to the conservation association to help with the upkeep of Falling water, in doing so they earned the title of "Friends of Fallingwater" and complimentary walking sticks (a nod to Edgar Kaufmann Sr.).
Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater:
After Fallingwater any other sights were kind of non-comparable... so whatever. Here are a few. Tim turned off his camera for the rest of the trip. They got McDonalds for lunch, they didn't much care for sitting down at a restaurant, they just wanted to get home. Tim got a Big Mac, Phil got Nuggets.
Sights:
When the boys got home they were greeted by cute little Hayden, Phil's daughter & Tim's niece, and the wonderful Jen! Soon after they arrived their mother came over and Phil called the Mary's Deli to order pizza and wings. It was good to be back, they had a long trip, had good times, shared good food, and had many new stories and inside jokes to tell. Sadly... Dunkirk/Fredonia had no DER WAFFLE HAUZADERKADAR, but this sadness would soon pass.
One more post to follow, it will include videos of the Megacavern, the tesla coil, the weird machines from the science center, the boys' surreal night at 3rd and Lindsley and the waterfalling of Fallingwater.
Peace out space cowboy.
Saturday, March 16, 2013
Day 8
Then: Phil and Tim had enjoyed the most amazing pancakes the day previous and were now sleeping in their Charleston, WV hotel. They were hopeful that Charleston held something for them in the morning.
Now: The Mission: Find food in Charleston, Charleston Capitol Flea Market, head to Pittsburgh to check in to The Priory, eat at Big Jim's and also take in the sights inside the doors of the Warhol Museum.
Though the boys had called it an early night they were still unable to heed their alarm clock's shrieking, they snoozed right on through. When they woke up a decision had to be made and the brothers resolved to skip the flea market and see the Warhol Museum instead. Opening his laptop Tim found a place for them to eat, First Watch, a cafe diner type situation it seemed.
Driving through the town it seemed much more lively and had much more to offer than the likes of Little Rock. Maybe with some exploring they could find other things to do around here; alas they had other things to do, their trip was coming to an end. Arriving at the cafe the boys took note of the surroundings, neat alleys with shops and other interesting spots littered their path. Phil and Tim were greeted and seated, coffee was poured and drank, orders were given and smiles exchanged. This place was quite nice the brothers decided, Thanks Charleston for not being a total let down. A carafe of coffee was left behind on their table for the boys to drink to their hearts' content, different flavored creamers in a bowl to the side.
Tim's Order: Avocado, Bacon and Tomato Scrambled Eggs atop Hashbrowns (onions as well please). Fruit cup. Coffee was assumed before they even walked in, mugs resided upon each table.
Phil's Order: Breakfast Scramble - Scrambled eggs, ham, peppers, cheese and hollandaise over multigrain toast. Fruit cup. Coffeeeeee
As the boys were digesting a bit their waitress came over to ask if they were set and Tim asked sweetly, "Do you have any to-go cups for this delicious coffee?" and she responded pleasantly and returned shortly with large cups full of freshly brewn coffee. Sometimes just asking for things you wants works out, try it sometime. Things like this work especially well when you use your boyish charms or doe-eyed feminine wiles, for the ladies out there.
Back on road the brothers traveled the windy twisty and hilly roads of West Virginia to their next destination, Pittsburgh, PA. The road seemed to never end, their stomachs twisting just as much as the roads from the constant loop-dee-loops they were forced to make. Pennsylvania came and with it less crazy roadways, thank goodness, though still pretty twisty. The boys checked into their next lodging, a wonderful old monastery, called the Priory, it had been converted into a hotel. Every detail of the location was thought of, hinges, furniture, artwork, etc, it was a great choice to stay there.
The Priory:
After looking about their room and hotel the boys were feeling some hunger coming on. "Let's check out the museum and see if there is anything to eat near by," Phil and Tim discussed. Leaving the hotel, they hit the road and were to the museum in just a few minutes. Big Jim's was a recommended location and it was only 10 minutes away from the museum, the brother's decided to hit it up instead of just look around the area. Lost. Wrong turn after wrong turn. Turning around to find their way again the boys had turned this ten minute drive into a half hour adventure, good thing the museum closed at 10pm. Finally making it to Big Jim's the boys realized it was in a shit part of town, a dive it must be, and parked in the lot, excited to try it out though still leery of the area.
Inside the brothers were greeted, seated and menus dispensed. So many amazing sandwiches, what would be their sandwich future?
Tim's Order: Two-bill Sandwich (1/2 lb corned beef with cole slaw, cheese and a fried egg a top on rye bread, housemade thousand island dressing on side). Water
Phil's Order: Rueben (1/2 lb corned beef with sauerkraut, cheese on rye bread with housemaid thousand island dressing on side). Basket o' fries. Pepsi
Great choices, the boys were deeply satisfied. Phil ate half his sandwich with a few handfuls of fries while Tim couldn't stop himself from eating his entirely along with the rest of the fries. A to-go box was brought and jokes were shared at the cash register, all in all a pleasant experience. The boys exited, hoping to not get shot on the way out… not really I'm joking.
Big Jim's "in the run" (First Watch also in slideshow):
The trip back to the museum wasn't as difficult as getting away from it was, the boys pulled up, parked and went in, greeted by Warhol's bulls and brilo pad boxes through glass doors. The girls at the desk checked them in and sent them on their way to experience this prolific artist, 7 stories full of art, and that isn't close to even a drop in the bucket. A brief history on the first floor was given, as well as a movie theatre of an interview with him, then the boys were to go to the 7th floor to begin their gallery adventure. Floor by floor the rooms were filled with Warhol's work as well as artists whom he worked with and inspired, directly or indirectly. By the end of their inspection the boys were left… I think… flabbergasted is the only word to describe it. Sadly they did not allow photography on the upper floors.
The Warhol Museum:
The boys gassed up and got bottled waters as well as some breakfast buns for the morning drive.. it was to be a very very early one. Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater was tomorrow at 8:30am and it was a 2 hour drive. Stopping into The Priory's Monk's Bar the boys procured two brews, Tim's of a local persuasion ipa, Phil's a monk's ale from New Mexico, both were delightful. There they sat working on their previous blog entry as other roomers slowly trickled into the space, all the while the noise level rose. When the entry was over so was the boys' patience for the "louder-than-a-college-bar" scene filled with mid-life adults.
Sights:
Phil decided to shower, which then sounded like an awesome idea for Tim who followed suit afterward. When Tim got out Phil was fast asleep, snoreless. Exhausted from walking the museum and driving for so long the boys rested on one of the most comfortable beds they had stayed on these past several days. Goodnight little ones, tomorrow is the last day and you have to wake up ever so early, earlier than breakfast is served. The rooster doth not crow for you.
Now: The Mission: Find food in Charleston, Charleston Capitol Flea Market, head to Pittsburgh to check in to The Priory, eat at Big Jim's and also take in the sights inside the doors of the Warhol Museum.
Though the boys had called it an early night they were still unable to heed their alarm clock's shrieking, they snoozed right on through. When they woke up a decision had to be made and the brothers resolved to skip the flea market and see the Warhol Museum instead. Opening his laptop Tim found a place for them to eat, First Watch, a cafe diner type situation it seemed.
Driving through the town it seemed much more lively and had much more to offer than the likes of Little Rock. Maybe with some exploring they could find other things to do around here; alas they had other things to do, their trip was coming to an end. Arriving at the cafe the boys took note of the surroundings, neat alleys with shops and other interesting spots littered their path. Phil and Tim were greeted and seated, coffee was poured and drank, orders were given and smiles exchanged. This place was quite nice the brothers decided, Thanks Charleston for not being a total let down. A carafe of coffee was left behind on their table for the boys to drink to their hearts' content, different flavored creamers in a bowl to the side.
Tim's Order: Avocado, Bacon and Tomato Scrambled Eggs atop Hashbrowns (onions as well please). Fruit cup. Coffee was assumed before they even walked in, mugs resided upon each table.
Phil's Order: Breakfast Scramble - Scrambled eggs, ham, peppers, cheese and hollandaise over multigrain toast. Fruit cup. Coffeeeeee
As the boys were digesting a bit their waitress came over to ask if they were set and Tim asked sweetly, "Do you have any to-go cups for this delicious coffee?" and she responded pleasantly and returned shortly with large cups full of freshly brewn coffee. Sometimes just asking for things you wants works out, try it sometime. Things like this work especially well when you use your boyish charms or doe-eyed feminine wiles, for the ladies out there.
Back on road the brothers traveled the windy twisty and hilly roads of West Virginia to their next destination, Pittsburgh, PA. The road seemed to never end, their stomachs twisting just as much as the roads from the constant loop-dee-loops they were forced to make. Pennsylvania came and with it less crazy roadways, thank goodness, though still pretty twisty. The boys checked into their next lodging, a wonderful old monastery, called the Priory, it had been converted into a hotel. Every detail of the location was thought of, hinges, furniture, artwork, etc, it was a great choice to stay there.
The Priory:
After looking about their room and hotel the boys were feeling some hunger coming on. "Let's check out the museum and see if there is anything to eat near by," Phil and Tim discussed. Leaving the hotel, they hit the road and were to the museum in just a few minutes. Big Jim's was a recommended location and it was only 10 minutes away from the museum, the brother's decided to hit it up instead of just look around the area. Lost. Wrong turn after wrong turn. Turning around to find their way again the boys had turned this ten minute drive into a half hour adventure, good thing the museum closed at 10pm. Finally making it to Big Jim's the boys realized it was in a shit part of town, a dive it must be, and parked in the lot, excited to try it out though still leery of the area.
Inside the brothers were greeted, seated and menus dispensed. So many amazing sandwiches, what would be their sandwich future?
Tim's Order: Two-bill Sandwich (1/2 lb corned beef with cole slaw, cheese and a fried egg a top on rye bread, housemade thousand island dressing on side). Water
Phil's Order: Rueben (1/2 lb corned beef with sauerkraut, cheese on rye bread with housemaid thousand island dressing on side). Basket o' fries. Pepsi
Great choices, the boys were deeply satisfied. Phil ate half his sandwich with a few handfuls of fries while Tim couldn't stop himself from eating his entirely along with the rest of the fries. A to-go box was brought and jokes were shared at the cash register, all in all a pleasant experience. The boys exited, hoping to not get shot on the way out… not really I'm joking.
Big Jim's "in the run" (First Watch also in slideshow):
The trip back to the museum wasn't as difficult as getting away from it was, the boys pulled up, parked and went in, greeted by Warhol's bulls and brilo pad boxes through glass doors. The girls at the desk checked them in and sent them on their way to experience this prolific artist, 7 stories full of art, and that isn't close to even a drop in the bucket. A brief history on the first floor was given, as well as a movie theatre of an interview with him, then the boys were to go to the 7th floor to begin their gallery adventure. Floor by floor the rooms were filled with Warhol's work as well as artists whom he worked with and inspired, directly or indirectly. By the end of their inspection the boys were left… I think… flabbergasted is the only word to describe it. Sadly they did not allow photography on the upper floors.
The Warhol Museum:
The boys gassed up and got bottled waters as well as some breakfast buns for the morning drive.. it was to be a very very early one. Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater was tomorrow at 8:30am and it was a 2 hour drive. Stopping into The Priory's Monk's Bar the boys procured two brews, Tim's of a local persuasion ipa, Phil's a monk's ale from New Mexico, both were delightful. There they sat working on their previous blog entry as other roomers slowly trickled into the space, all the while the noise level rose. When the entry was over so was the boys' patience for the "louder-than-a-college-bar" scene filled with mid-life adults.
Sights:
Phil decided to shower, which then sounded like an awesome idea for Tim who followed suit afterward. When Tim got out Phil was fast asleep, snoreless. Exhausted from walking the museum and driving for so long the boys rested on one of the most comfortable beds they had stayed on these past several days. Goodnight little ones, tomorrow is the last day and you have to wake up ever so early, earlier than breakfast is served. The rooster doth not crow for you.
Friday, March 15, 2013
Day 7
Then: You left the boys with their faces melted and so happy to have made it back to Nashville!
Now: The Mission: Travel to Charleston, WV and hit Lexington, KY on the way stoping at a mini golf course of biblical proportions.
Waking up a bit late the boys decided they would eventually be back to Nashville anyway and would check out what else it had to offer then (like the Hatch Show Print Shop). Parking in the rear lot of the Pancake Pantry the brothers opted to start the day with this local favorite, I wonder what delights this establishment serves … grits? I think pancakes. Phil and Tim were seated without wait, although they had been warned that they could have to stick about for an hour or so for a table. Thank goodness this was not so because it so COLD and they were starving. Not long after they were seated a grandmother-type figure appeared and their order was promptly taken, whisked away and then delivered.
Tim's Order: Apricot lemon pancakes with pecans, cinnamon syrup and whipped cream with hashbrowns. Coffee & water
Phil's Order: Sweet potato pancakes veiled with cinnamon and powdered sugar, then smothered with butter and cinnamon syrup plus them hashbrowns. Coffee & water
Pancake Pantry:
The boys hit the road toward Lexington, KY. Though they had planned to do some putt putt at a bible themed mini golf course… GOD had decided that season were a thing and that along with the seasons people were pussies and wouldn't want to putt putt in the colder months. The brothers were not convinced that this was the right course of action… they wanted to mini golf… yet they were not able, their way barred by locked gates. Anguished, the boys turned their heels and left to some flea markets to cheer their spirits.
Golf er not:
After an hour… several hours… the boys were able to peel themselves away from the unreasonable amount of junk/treasure that had been placed before them within these monstrous warehouse walls, back to the road. Leaving Lexington the boys were now on their way to Charleston, WV… they were not so sure about this location. Hopefully it wasn't another Little Rock.. they had heard tales of West Virginia. By the photos you can tell they were driving awhile…
Sights er whatever:
When arriving in Charleston the boys hit the bed so hard. It was already so late, but the boys had been full on pancakes for most of the day, until now. Phil called his wonderful woman lady to assure her that he had not been stabbed by cowboys or indians alike along the way, he was sure that she was worried sick. Of course by this late at night nothing was open and the boys were afraid that the town would in fact be another Little Rock. The boys explored a few miles in each direction… looked like Burger King for their midnight, basically, snack.
Tim's Order: Chicken Tenders with Fries and Sprite
Phil's Order: Whopper Jr with Fries and Dr Pepper
Getting back to the hotel the brothers ate their meal and shut their eyes quite straightaway. Hopefully this early-ish night would allow them to wake up early for their busy itinerary the next morning.
Thursday, March 14, 2013
Day 6
Then: You left the boys as Phil was snoring along in the hotel. The day had left the brothers full of Whippet and wonderment about some of their family history.
Now: The Mission: See the world's most powerful Tesla Coil at the Mid-America Science Museum in Arkansas, grab life by the horns and eat them at Rendezvous in Memphis, see what there was to do in Nashville when they got there.
Breakfast was waiting for the brothers downstairs in their hotel lodging, but Tim needed to clear space on his camera and empty the trash. This task took way too long and almost cost the boys their breakfast. Tim decided to cancel those plans and do them on the go from the road… the cost would be too high if not. The boys left their paraphernalia in their room and headed down for Bagels, Biscuits n Gravy, Breakfast Sausage, Danish, Eggs, Waffles and the most important part.. COFFEE. Shoveling the whole caboodle down their throats the boys then ran upstairs to take their leave of Little Rock, finally. Little Rock had so little to offer, the boys had a deep hankerin' for Nashville's lively personality.
While on the road to Hot Springs, where the Mid-America Science Museum was located, the boys shared music back and forth listening to bands either one hadn't heard before. The roads were lined with… Nothing. The towns were filled with… Nothing. Not until they arrived at the museum did the boys not mind being in Arkansas… this was not Nothing.
The boys were greeted by a delightful young lady who told them about their exhibits and set them on their way. Whirligigs and sound, air and water experiments lined the walkway. Everywhere the brothers looked was another fascinating display of science; mirror tricks, light manipulation, optical deceptions and other craziness abound. After walking around and investigating multiple displays of curiosity the boys headed to the Tesla Coil show called "Caged Lightning". Gee golly willikers that show was amazing, I was right there with the boys, they had invited me along and oh boy oh boy, check out the photos for a taste!
Mid-America Science Museum:
Upon leaving the museum to get back to the… Nothing that was the scenery of Arkansas the boys grew restless for Tennessee's promise of good food and good times. Memphis was their next stop and they planned to make it an awesome one. Neon signs and famous names littered the streets as the boys found their destination and parking. Rendezvous is a world famous rib joint and that's exactly what they got… world famous ribs.
Tim's Order: Large Order of Ribs (10 bones), includes bbq baked beans and mustard-based coleslaw. Water and Ghost River Beer
Phil's Order: Small Order of Ribs (6 bones), includes bbq baked beans and mustard-based coleslaw. Water
A Memphis Dry Rub encased and seasoned the outside of these ribs as they sat in a sweet vinegar to the point of perfection as the flames of passion ignited the air. Absolutely perfect. Beans, awesome. Coleslaw, double awesome.
Rendezvous:
After such an indulgence the boys found it hard to not stick around for more and see such sights as the BB King Lounge, the Gibson Guitar Showroom, Rock N' Soul Hall of Fame, Sun Records or any number of other amazements. The road called their names, Phil… Tim…, and Nashville was on their docket.
Sights, etc:
The trip between the two fabled cities was one full of a diverse set of music the likes of Shooter Jennings, Elbow, Eminem and Linkin Park (of course there were others as well, you don't expect the boys to remember everything do you? well too bad). Resurfacing above the musical ocean in their traveling submarine the boys shored up back at their wonderful host's abode, their luggage and what have you neatly together in the living room. The brothers discussed if they wanted to even go out that night after the long drive… they pulled up several locations on the interwebnets… THE WOOTEN BROTHERS at 3rd and Lindsley?! "What the hell where they still doing at the house" they asked themselves and were out the door.
The rest of the night was a fantasy, everything that could go right had gone right since arriving in Tennessee. Zero wait at Rendezvous (a 15 person group and 2 families were waiting as they left), hardly any traffic and now this amazing chance to see these amazingly talented individuals play for $5? I quote Tim, "Holy S Nashville… holy. s." This day had made the boys question why they were not living there. Oh and RoyEL "Future Man" Wooten made a special appearance to watch his brothers' band funk it up on stage. Dancers mingled with the crowd and band on stage, friends made guest appearances to dance, sing and belt out the most soulful jams these ears had ever heard (examples include, but are not limited to, Prince, Parliament, Funkadelic, Hendrix, Zepplin, Jackson 5 and numerous motown classics). Roy quietly sat next to Tim on a bar stool… observing… nodding… typing down notes on his iPhone. Not until Reggie Wooten, his older brother, pulled him on stage did anyone suspect this humble man in black was a 5 time grammy award winning multi-instrument musician. And did he show it on that drumkit, do yourself a favor and looked them up... the boys will be posting some videos later on.
Peace and love.
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Day 5
Then: Finishing their ride to Little Rock you left the boys in complete despair, not being able to find anything other than closed... EVERYTHING. Hoping that the following day woud not disappoint in the same way as the last, the brothers finished their night with the unfulfillment of Taco Bell.
Now: The Misson: Travel from Little Rock, AR to Sheridan, AR, meet with Nelson Mears (Grant County Veteran's Service Officer and Webmaster of b17memorialpark.com), attend U.S. Army Air Corps 70th Anniversary B17 Crash Memorial Ceremony and find real food.
Phil and Tim awoke and slowly got ready for the day, showering, ironing and grabbing a bite to eat as they left the hotel, headed for Sheridan, AR. A call was made to Mr. Nelson Mears to inform of him of their arrival, giving them directions to his home. Nelson was waiting for them out in front of his house, and greeting them warmly as they got out of their carriage.
Invited into Nelson's home, he spoke of the history of the tragic B17 crash on March 12, 1943 that the brothers' Great Uncle Philip E. Niewolak had died in 70 years ago. The brothers brought out what that had recovered from the collection of their grandmother's, which included some hand written letters, pillow shams, U.S. Army Air Corps Graduation Card, Western Union Telegraph, patches and pins. Learning lots from each other with storytelling and documents, it was time for Nelson to navigate and ride shotgun to the crash sight. Nelson showed them around the site, explained how and where the plane landed and what many local reports said about the crash.
Leaving the site, Nelson directed the boys to the Grant County Museum, where they have a large display of artifacts from the B17 crash, as well as from the Civil War to current military items and cars. Spending two hours at the museum it as time to eat... again.
Grant County Museum:
Quickly finding multiple places, they decided on the Yellowjack Drive In.
Tim's Order: Cheeseburger Basket and small Sprite
Phil's Order: Cheeseburger Basker and small Coke
Yummy diner style burgers, Mmmmmm.
Arriving to the crash site the boys were surprised to see that there were a whole lot of vehicles lining the road of the crash site. Surprised at the turn out, the brothers parked along side of the road and walked to the gathering.
The boys were greeted by a slew of folks, thanking them for their attendance since they were the only relatives of one of the nine fallen airmen being honored at the ceremony. 14 active airmen were in attendance, nine of which stood in place for the nine B17 crew members, others in attendance included members of the local Legion, Sheridan's Mayor, County Judge and local residents. With two tables of pictures and pieces of wreckaged displayed in front of a semi circle of flags attended by member of the Legion the ceremony started at 3:00pm. Each airmen was called up to hold a picture of one of the fallen crew members as a brief bio was read. Pausing the ceremony for a moment of silence at 3:35pm, the official time of the crash, the frogs in the swamp also stopped croaking (seriously). The ceremony continued on until 4:30pm as Nelson remembered several new stories to disclose, several of which helped him deduce conclusions about the accident being a military cover-up.
B17 70th Anniversary Ceremony:
After the ceremony culminated the brothers thanked Mr. Nelson Mears and all other members of the Legion for all of their hard work and dedication. The boys headed to The Whippet (a restaurant recommended by Nelson and local residents). Nelson suggested to order the fried catfish with a "setup".
Tim's Order: Coffee and Water, BBQ Ribs with bbq beans, cole slaw, pickled tomatoes and fries.
Phil's Order: Coffee and Water, Catfish Dinner with baked beans, cole slaw, hushpuppies, pickled tomatoes and fries.
*The pickled tomatoes were out of this world!
FOOD - Yellowjacket & The Whippet:
Bellies full again, the Brothers LaSalle headed back to Little Rock to kick their feet up and relax in their hotel room.
Sights:
Now: The Misson: Travel from Little Rock, AR to Sheridan, AR, meet with Nelson Mears (Grant County Veteran's Service Officer and Webmaster of b17memorialpark.com), attend U.S. Army Air Corps 70th Anniversary B17 Crash Memorial Ceremony and find real food.
Phil and Tim awoke and slowly got ready for the day, showering, ironing and grabbing a bite to eat as they left the hotel, headed for Sheridan, AR. A call was made to Mr. Nelson Mears to inform of him of their arrival, giving them directions to his home. Nelson was waiting for them out in front of his house, and greeting them warmly as they got out of their carriage.
Invited into Nelson's home, he spoke of the history of the tragic B17 crash on March 12, 1943 that the brothers' Great Uncle Philip E. Niewolak had died in 70 years ago. The brothers brought out what that had recovered from the collection of their grandmother's, which included some hand written letters, pillow shams, U.S. Army Air Corps Graduation Card, Western Union Telegraph, patches and pins. Learning lots from each other with storytelling and documents, it was time for Nelson to navigate and ride shotgun to the crash sight. Nelson showed them around the site, explained how and where the plane landed and what many local reports said about the crash.
Leaving the site, Nelson directed the boys to the Grant County Museum, where they have a large display of artifacts from the B17 crash, as well as from the Civil War to current military items and cars. Spending two hours at the museum it as time to eat... again.
Grant County Museum:
Quickly finding multiple places, they decided on the Yellowjack Drive In.
Tim's Order: Cheeseburger Basket and small Sprite
Phil's Order: Cheeseburger Basker and small Coke
Yummy diner style burgers, Mmmmmm.
Arriving to the crash site the boys were surprised to see that there were a whole lot of vehicles lining the road of the crash site. Surprised at the turn out, the brothers parked along side of the road and walked to the gathering.
The boys were greeted by a slew of folks, thanking them for their attendance since they were the only relatives of one of the nine fallen airmen being honored at the ceremony. 14 active airmen were in attendance, nine of which stood in place for the nine B17 crew members, others in attendance included members of the local Legion, Sheridan's Mayor, County Judge and local residents. With two tables of pictures and pieces of wreckaged displayed in front of a semi circle of flags attended by member of the Legion the ceremony started at 3:00pm. Each airmen was called up to hold a picture of one of the fallen crew members as a brief bio was read. Pausing the ceremony for a moment of silence at 3:35pm, the official time of the crash, the frogs in the swamp also stopped croaking (seriously). The ceremony continued on until 4:30pm as Nelson remembered several new stories to disclose, several of which helped him deduce conclusions about the accident being a military cover-up.
B17 70th Anniversary Ceremony:
After the ceremony culminated the brothers thanked Mr. Nelson Mears and all other members of the Legion for all of their hard work and dedication. The boys headed to The Whippet (a restaurant recommended by Nelson and local residents). Nelson suggested to order the fried catfish with a "setup".
Tim's Order: Coffee and Water, BBQ Ribs with bbq beans, cole slaw, pickled tomatoes and fries.
Phil's Order: Coffee and Water, Catfish Dinner with baked beans, cole slaw, hushpuppies, pickled tomatoes and fries.
*The pickled tomatoes were out of this world!
FOOD - Yellowjacket & The Whippet:
Bellies full again, the Brothers LaSalle headed back to Little Rock to kick their feet up and relax in their hotel room.
Sights:
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Day 4
Then: Last you saw the boys they had been spending the nightlife in Nashville with their amazing host, downing several delicious brews while enjoying live tunes. Let's see if there were any issues that arouse the day after such a fun night.
Now: The Mission: Finish project (Tim), travel from Nashville to Little Rock, stop in Memphis for grub on the way.
The boys woke up and Tim got on his project right away, knowing he still had a bunch of polishing to do, while his brother and host engaged in conversation. He worked on this until his brother, Phil, came up with cups of coffee and english muffins. The blog was calling their attention since it had not been wrote the night before. Good thing they were wide awake and without blemish from the night previous (Tim attributed this to his suggestion of drinking water afterward, go Tim.. go water). After finishing up the blog Tim worked on his project once again and Phil went about getting ready with a nice shower and packing up his suitcase. Time passed and Tim finished his work and sent it away through the information super highway, much like the highway the boys had been riding on for days passed... but digital.
Setting the alarm and locking the doors the brothers got on the road; showered clean, luggage in tow and spirits high. A bit of time and miles later the music was bumpin' and their tummy's were grumblin', but the boys weren't sure where to pull off for delectable edibles. Tim cashed in a lifeline and phoned rather texted a friend, Phil's wife and his sister-in-law, the wonderful Jen. Asking Jen to Yelp! up a recommendation near the boys on the road George's was found. George's was located in a small town called Lobelville off Route 44... or was it? The boys went from one end of Main St to the other and back to no avail (how weird...).
Turning back to the highway the brothers decided on the very-close-to-the-thruway Loretta Lynn's Kitchen. A quaint southern gift shop and restaurant that thought it was on Route 66 (devoted to you know who... that's right Sir Samuel L Jackson.. not really.. duh.). The boys ordered and ate their "meat n' 3s" then checked out the very kitschy shop. Gifts included such things as moonshine jelly, Elvis TY bears, carved knives with names branded into the handles, moo cow creamer pitchers and whatever else you may think it may... like a small statue of a Cat with many animals stacked upon its head or gold glittery paisley cowboy hats.
Tim's Order: Chicken Tenders, Coleslaw, Mashed Tatters and Corn
Phil's Order: Country Fried Steak, Coleslaw, Mashed Tatters and Corn
On the way to Memphis the brothers decided to skip it and make a B-line to their hotel in Little Rock, life on the road was tiresome and they had gotten a late start as it was. Maybe they'll end up in Memphis on the way back to check it out.
Sights and Stuff
Something strange the boys wanted me to point out. Adult stores are everywhere in the south. The brothers told me that each town they have passed through had at least 3 of these adult shops, some large with signs like in the slideshow. Also Waffle House is everywhere, now endearingly shouted out-loud "DER WAFFLE HAUZEN!!".
XXX Everywhere
This leg of the journey was weird though... BARNS had lined the streets in all states previous, when the boys hit the Arkansas state line any sort of scenery halted. Tim was able to find enjoyment in other scenery though.... oh yes.. he did, these are just a few of them.
Beautiful Ragged Signage
Once the boys arrived in Little Rock and checked into their hotel they set their sights on finding an institution of cuisine. Yelp! had many suggestions, but alas the sun had drained from the sky and with it time. Little Rock's nightlife is apparently non-existent and all restaurants aside from fastfood chains close around 9... it was 8:43. The brothers LaSalle crisscrossed the city several times over in search of the town's homemade refreshments... unsuccessfully. They now know that there are 2 or 3 WAFFLE HAUZENs in Little Rock though. Taco Bell, Burger King, KFC & Long John, Popeyes, McDonalds and whatever other fastfood on the outskirts of the town were open, at least the boys could eat. Sadly the boys had to break the rule of "no franchises" and indulged in Taco Bell's menu.
Tim's Order: Cool Ranch Taco and Crunchwrap Supreme
Phil's Order: Number 6 (2 Chalupas and a Crunchy Taco) and Lemonade
Heading back to their hotel, defeated and depressed for having to break the rule, they sat on their king sized bed and shared their meal over a marathon of Bar Rescue. Have you seen the commercial for the Cool Ranch Taco? The part where the grandma says "well they better make it before I'm dead".... they lost it, for several minutes laughter was all that could be heard.
With their meal finished Phil passed out while watching the show and Tim decided it was time to write the blog so that was taken care of. As he sipped his cup of freshly brewed coffee he sat on the edge of the bed typing away, Phil's snores and the tv being his soundtrack. Tim just saw the Dikembe Mutombo Geico commercial and sat open mouthed grinning as it played. Perfection.
Now: The Mission: Finish project (Tim), travel from Nashville to Little Rock, stop in Memphis for grub on the way.
The boys woke up and Tim got on his project right away, knowing he still had a bunch of polishing to do, while his brother and host engaged in conversation. He worked on this until his brother, Phil, came up with cups of coffee and english muffins. The blog was calling their attention since it had not been wrote the night before. Good thing they were wide awake and without blemish from the night previous (Tim attributed this to his suggestion of drinking water afterward, go Tim.. go water). After finishing up the blog Tim worked on his project once again and Phil went about getting ready with a nice shower and packing up his suitcase. Time passed and Tim finished his work and sent it away through the information super highway, much like the highway the boys had been riding on for days passed... but digital.
Setting the alarm and locking the doors the brothers got on the road; showered clean, luggage in tow and spirits high. A bit of time and miles later the music was bumpin' and their tummy's were grumblin', but the boys weren't sure where to pull off for delectable edibles. Tim cashed in a lifeline and phoned rather texted a friend, Phil's wife and his sister-in-law, the wonderful Jen. Asking Jen to Yelp! up a recommendation near the boys on the road George's was found. George's was located in a small town called Lobelville off Route 44... or was it? The boys went from one end of Main St to the other and back to no avail (how weird...).
Turning back to the highway the brothers decided on the very-close-to-the-thruway Loretta Lynn's Kitchen. A quaint southern gift shop and restaurant that thought it was on Route 66 (devoted to you know who... that's right Sir Samuel L Jackson.. not really.. duh.). The boys ordered and ate their "meat n' 3s" then checked out the very kitschy shop. Gifts included such things as moonshine jelly, Elvis TY bears, carved knives with names branded into the handles, moo cow creamer pitchers and whatever else you may think it may... like a small statue of a Cat with many animals stacked upon its head or gold glittery paisley cowboy hats.
Tim's Order: Chicken Tenders, Coleslaw, Mashed Tatters and Corn
Phil's Order: Country Fried Steak, Coleslaw, Mashed Tatters and Corn
On the way to Memphis the brothers decided to skip it and make a B-line to their hotel in Little Rock, life on the road was tiresome and they had gotten a late start as it was. Maybe they'll end up in Memphis on the way back to check it out.
Sights and Stuff
Something strange the boys wanted me to point out. Adult stores are everywhere in the south. The brothers told me that each town they have passed through had at least 3 of these adult shops, some large with signs like in the slideshow. Also Waffle House is everywhere, now endearingly shouted out-loud "DER WAFFLE HAUZEN!!".
XXX Everywhere
This leg of the journey was weird though... BARNS had lined the streets in all states previous, when the boys hit the Arkansas state line any sort of scenery halted. Tim was able to find enjoyment in other scenery though.... oh yes.. he did, these are just a few of them.
Beautiful Ragged Signage
Once the boys arrived in Little Rock and checked into their hotel they set their sights on finding an institution of cuisine. Yelp! had many suggestions, but alas the sun had drained from the sky and with it time. Little Rock's nightlife is apparently non-existent and all restaurants aside from fastfood chains close around 9... it was 8:43. The brothers LaSalle crisscrossed the city several times over in search of the town's homemade refreshments... unsuccessfully. They now know that there are 2 or 3 WAFFLE HAUZENs in Little Rock though. Taco Bell, Burger King, KFC & Long John, Popeyes, McDonalds and whatever other fastfood on the outskirts of the town were open, at least the boys could eat. Sadly the boys had to break the rule of "no franchises" and indulged in Taco Bell's menu.
Tim's Order: Cool Ranch Taco and Crunchwrap Supreme
Phil's Order: Number 6 (2 Chalupas and a Crunchy Taco) and Lemonade
Heading back to their hotel, defeated and depressed for having to break the rule, they sat on their king sized bed and shared their meal over a marathon of Bar Rescue. Have you seen the commercial for the Cool Ranch Taco? The part where the grandma says "well they better make it before I'm dead".... they lost it, for several minutes laughter was all that could be heard.
With their meal finished Phil passed out while watching the show and Tim decided it was time to write the blog so that was taken care of. As he sipped his cup of freshly brewed coffee he sat on the edge of the bed typing away, Phil's snores and the tv being his soundtrack. Tim just saw the Dikembe Mutombo Geico commercial and sat open mouthed grinning as it played. Perfection.
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