It was kind of a gray, overcast, slight snowfall sort of day, so decided to drive to the Broken Oar Bar on the Fox River in Port Barrington, Illinois. We go there by boat during the summer, but rarely during the winter. But...I saw that they had just gotten NTN so time for a road trip.
Played the NTN and had their $5 lunch specials and enjoyed the 75 cent 10-oz. drafts. Wonder why there weren't any boats out in the river.
On the way back, we hit three places: Sidelines and Mackey's Hideout in Island Lake and Half Times in Johnsburg.
We weren't impressed at all by Mackey's Hideout, but enjoyed the specials at Half Times. They have beer for a buck every day but Friday and Saturday, when it is $2 to $2.50.
Way to Spend a Winter's Day. --RoadDog
THE LAST HOW'S THAT AGAIN. You ain't the only duck in the pond. (It's not all about you.)
Being an account of some things I'm interested in, what I'm doing, and reflections on my past, especially music.
Listen to this man. Seven years of college, you know. Trying to reason with 2020 and, now, 2022.
Showing posts with label NTN Trippin'. Show all posts
Showing posts with label NTN Trippin'. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Monday, May 2, 2011
Civil War in Illinois 2011-- Part 2: SCV-- Lincoln's Home-- Butler-- A Hoot-- A Cap-- and a Fiesta
APRIL 30th-- SATURDAY
Spent much of the day at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Springfield, Illinois at the annual Sons of Confederate Veterans (SCV) Illinois Division Conference. We were essentially enveloped by the much-larger Illinois Knights of Columbus Convention.
We had 30 division members in attendance, out of 160 statewide. One camp has disbanded and another is gone, bringing us down to five camps, the minimum we can have to be a division in the SCV. It is difficult operating "behind enemy lines" as we do. Lack of members and great distances are really big problems.
Camp commanders gave their reports and I was introduced as the commander of the newest, yet-to-be-named, camp.
During lunch, Gale Red gave an excellent presentation on the Alton, Illinois, Confederate prison camp.
LINCOLN'S HOME, CAMP BUTLER AND BEYOND
Upon adjournment, the group went to Abraham Lincoln's home for a group picture, then several of us drove out to the Camp Butler National Cemetery where we visited the Confederate graves and monument.
Then Liz and I went to Hooter's to play NTN (our 28th new site this year and 938th overall). Then, we went to Capital City and enjoyed the $1.50 draft beers while playing NTN with JJ. Last stop was at La Fiesta for shrimp nachos and giant mugs (32-0z) of beer.
A Long Day. --RoadDog
Spent much of the day at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Springfield, Illinois at the annual Sons of Confederate Veterans (SCV) Illinois Division Conference. We were essentially enveloped by the much-larger Illinois Knights of Columbus Convention.
We had 30 division members in attendance, out of 160 statewide. One camp has disbanded and another is gone, bringing us down to five camps, the minimum we can have to be a division in the SCV. It is difficult operating "behind enemy lines" as we do. Lack of members and great distances are really big problems.
Camp commanders gave their reports and I was introduced as the commander of the newest, yet-to-be-named, camp.
During lunch, Gale Red gave an excellent presentation on the Alton, Illinois, Confederate prison camp.
LINCOLN'S HOME, CAMP BUTLER AND BEYOND
Upon adjournment, the group went to Abraham Lincoln's home for a group picture, then several of us drove out to the Camp Butler National Cemetery where we visited the Confederate graves and monument.
Then Liz and I went to Hooter's to play NTN (our 28th new site this year and 938th overall). Then, we went to Capital City and enjoyed the $1.50 draft beers while playing NTN with JJ. Last stop was at La Fiesta for shrimp nachos and giant mugs (32-0z) of beer.
A Long Day. --RoadDog
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Civil War in Illinois 2011-- Part 1: NIU-- Route 66-- Springfield
In honor of the Sesquicentennial of the Civil War, I am doing research on finding Civil War stuff here in Illinois and especially anything along Route 66. No battles or skirmishes took place here, but most every county court house has a monument or cannons from it. Plus, there are many cemeteries where Civil War veterans are buried as well as monuments.
APRIL 29th
Left home with the odometer showing 58 miles on the new Malibu. Instead of taking Il-47 to Dwight, we took Il-176 to Marengo then Il-23 south to Sycamore and Dekalb,
Drove around the campus of Northern Illinois (where we graduated from in 1973) and then south on Il-23 through Ottawa and Streeter to Pontiac.
Got dinner at the Old Log Cabin in Pontiac on Route 66. Great deal: 10 oz. top sirloin covered with onions and mushrooms, rolls, sweet potato tater tots (try saying that fast ten times) roll and salad for $9.99.
Toured the Route 66 Museum in Pontiac and saw Bob Waldmire's VW van and school bus home.
Drove Route 66 to Towanda and talked stopped at the Schenk Garage. Drove around Bloomington-Normal and stopped at Funk's Grove where we bought some sirup. Then a bathroom break at the Dixie.
On to Springfield. Played NTN at the BW3, Buffalo Wild Wings and got a room at the Stevenson Motel. Went to Capital City Bar and Grill and played NTN and met JJ. Last stop was La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant for big drafts and chips and salsa.
Gas was mostly $4.20 until Dekalb where it was $4.10 to $4.16. The lowest was $3.90 in Ottawa and $4.20 in nearby Streeter. From Pontiac to Springfield, it was $4.10. In Springfield it was $3.96.
A Long Day. --RoadDog
APRIL 29th
Left home with the odometer showing 58 miles on the new Malibu. Instead of taking Il-47 to Dwight, we took Il-176 to Marengo then Il-23 south to Sycamore and Dekalb,
Drove around the campus of Northern Illinois (where we graduated from in 1973) and then south on Il-23 through Ottawa and Streeter to Pontiac.
Got dinner at the Old Log Cabin in Pontiac on Route 66. Great deal: 10 oz. top sirloin covered with onions and mushrooms, rolls, sweet potato tater tots (try saying that fast ten times) roll and salad for $9.99.
Toured the Route 66 Museum in Pontiac and saw Bob Waldmire's VW van and school bus home.
Drove Route 66 to Towanda and talked stopped at the Schenk Garage. Drove around Bloomington-Normal and stopped at Funk's Grove where we bought some sirup. Then a bathroom break at the Dixie.
On to Springfield. Played NTN at the BW3, Buffalo Wild Wings and got a room at the Stevenson Motel. Went to Capital City Bar and Grill and played NTN and met JJ. Last stop was La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant for big drafts and chips and salsa.
Gas was mostly $4.20 until Dekalb where it was $4.10 to $4.16. The lowest was $3.90 in Ottawa and $4.20 in nearby Streeter. From Pontiac to Springfield, it was $4.10. In Springfield it was $3.96.
A Long Day. --RoadDog
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Cruisin' and NTNin'
The last two days, we have been heading west along the Gulf Coast from Panama City Beach to Biloxi where we are today.
We've spent time out at Fort Pickens by Pensacola, Florida, ate at Lambert's Cafe "Home of the Throwed Rolls" in Foley, Alabama, and sat in a clinic in Daphne, Al., while Liz was in seeing a doctor about a respiratory infection.
We've been stopping at places with NTN along the way:
Paco's Grill in Navarre, Fl.
Mellow Mushroom in Pensacola, Fl
BW3 in Pensacola
Seville Quarters in Pensacola (a real taste of New Orleans in seven bars in one building)
North Shore Pub in Orange Beach, Alabama
The Jungle in Foley, Al.
Yesterday we stopped at:
Shep's Fort Bayou in Ocean Springs, Mississippi
The Quarters in Gulfport, Ms.
Play Way TOO Much of the Stupid Game. --RoadDog
We've spent time out at Fort Pickens by Pensacola, Florida, ate at Lambert's Cafe "Home of the Throwed Rolls" in Foley, Alabama, and sat in a clinic in Daphne, Al., while Liz was in seeing a doctor about a respiratory infection.
We've been stopping at places with NTN along the way:
Paco's Grill in Navarre, Fl.
Mellow Mushroom in Pensacola, Fl
BW3 in Pensacola
Seville Quarters in Pensacola (a real taste of New Orleans in seven bars in one building)
North Shore Pub in Orange Beach, Alabama
The Jungle in Foley, Al.
Yesterday we stopped at:
Shep's Fort Bayou in Ocean Springs, Mississippi
The Quarters in Gulfport, Ms.
Play Way TOO Much of the Stupid Game. --RoadDog
Friday, January 21, 2011
If It's Good Times You Want, Don't Go to Old Chicago in Bettendorf, Iowa
We just got back from our annual trip out to the Mississippi River to see the bald eagles. We always stay at the Ramada Motel north of Bettendorf. It has very nice accommodations, is reasonable and a really nice pool area.
Even better, it is next door to an Old Chicago restaurant which had NTN. Now, that's nirvana for folks like Liz and myself who are real NTN, or do you say Buzztime, nuts.
At first, it was a great setup, but the last several years, they didn't have ANY drink specials except a happy hour and one at night where they knock a buck off a pint.
We went there Wednesday night and were shocked to find they charged $3.75 for a domestic pint!! I guess their customers must be independently wealthy to pay that much. And that is just domestic. They specialize in imports and craft beers. I can only imagine what they charge for that.
So, their drinks are rip-off-priced.
But, them, when I went to sign in on my board, it wouldn't let me, with a message that I would have had to have signed in before (which I had). I could play as a guest but not player plus. I tried on all their boards, but the same thing. Liz signed in right away.
The bartender tried to get me in, but when it wouldn't said I should just play as a guest. We have been to over 900 NTN sites across the United States and I never had this happen before.
As if the ripoff prices weren't bad enough, now I am not allowed to play there.
So, after spending out $7.50 for two Miller Lite pints (with at least 2 ounces of foam), we left and went to Buffalo Wild Wings about a mile away and had no problem signing in.
Believe Me, It Will Be a Long, Long Time (AS in Never) Before I Set Foot in There Again. Old Rip-off. --RoadDog
QUOTE: I don't feel old. I don't feel anything until noon. Then it's time for my nap. --Bob Hope
Even better, it is next door to an Old Chicago restaurant which had NTN. Now, that's nirvana for folks like Liz and myself who are real NTN, or do you say Buzztime, nuts.
At first, it was a great setup, but the last several years, they didn't have ANY drink specials except a happy hour and one at night where they knock a buck off a pint.
We went there Wednesday night and were shocked to find they charged $3.75 for a domestic pint!! I guess their customers must be independently wealthy to pay that much. And that is just domestic. They specialize in imports and craft beers. I can only imagine what they charge for that.
So, their drinks are rip-off-priced.
But, them, when I went to sign in on my board, it wouldn't let me, with a message that I would have had to have signed in before (which I had). I could play as a guest but not player plus. I tried on all their boards, but the same thing. Liz signed in right away.
The bartender tried to get me in, but when it wouldn't said I should just play as a guest. We have been to over 900 NTN sites across the United States and I never had this happen before.
As if the ripoff prices weren't bad enough, now I am not allowed to play there.
So, after spending out $7.50 for two Miller Lite pints (with at least 2 ounces of foam), we left and went to Buffalo Wild Wings about a mile away and had no problem signing in.
Believe Me, It Will Be a Long, Long Time (AS in Never) Before I Set Foot in There Again. Old Rip-off. --RoadDog
QUOTE: I don't feel old. I don't feel anything until noon. Then it's time for my nap. --Bob Hope
Thursday, December 30, 2010
JSS: Finally Warm-- Bowl Games-- NTN Trip Today
JSS-- Just Some Stuff
1. FINALLY WARM-- Temps today got to a balmy 39 degrees, a regular heat wave. The snow is melting and yes, there is grass under it all. The snowmobilers are crying. I'm rejoicing.
Unfortunately, all this moisture has shorted out part of the Christmas lights in the front of the house.
2. BOWL GAMES-- Been watchin' 'em. What happened to East Carolina yesterday? At least the Illini won. Someone has to come up with a way to stop that LeSheure(?) guy. he sure ran over my Huskies earlier in the season.
There should have been a thirty yard excessive celebrating call on Oklahoma State's first TD when the idiot ran parallel with the goal line at the end of his TD run. Or perhaps an unbelievable hit while he was showing off in the end zone was in order. There is no room for that sort of behavior in any level of football.
Big decision to make right now. Do I pull for Tennessee or North Carolina in this huge battle of so-so teams in Nashville. And why should the Volunteers get what amounts to a home bowl game?
3. NTN TRIP TODAY-- We met up with Kevin and Kelly at Uncle Mike's in Kenosha, Wisconsin. We had several top twenties then drove the short distance to The Brat Stop and had some more top twenties. Last stop was home base at Donovan's Reef in Twin Lakes where we had more top twenties despite all the repeat games. I'll be writing about these places tomorrow on my blog at http://roaddogsroadlog.blogspot.com.
A Good Way to Spend a Day. --RoadDog
YOU'RE A FLORIDIAN IF...you've driven through Yeehaw Junction. (?)
1. FINALLY WARM-- Temps today got to a balmy 39 degrees, a regular heat wave. The snow is melting and yes, there is grass under it all. The snowmobilers are crying. I'm rejoicing.
Unfortunately, all this moisture has shorted out part of the Christmas lights in the front of the house.
2. BOWL GAMES-- Been watchin' 'em. What happened to East Carolina yesterday? At least the Illini won. Someone has to come up with a way to stop that LeSheure(?) guy. he sure ran over my Huskies earlier in the season.
There should have been a thirty yard excessive celebrating call on Oklahoma State's first TD when the idiot ran parallel with the goal line at the end of his TD run. Or perhaps an unbelievable hit while he was showing off in the end zone was in order. There is no room for that sort of behavior in any level of football.
Big decision to make right now. Do I pull for Tennessee or North Carolina in this huge battle of so-so teams in Nashville. And why should the Volunteers get what amounts to a home bowl game?
3. NTN TRIP TODAY-- We met up with Kevin and Kelly at Uncle Mike's in Kenosha, Wisconsin. We had several top twenties then drove the short distance to The Brat Stop and had some more top twenties. Last stop was home base at Donovan's Reef in Twin Lakes where we had more top twenties despite all the repeat games. I'll be writing about these places tomorrow on my blog at http://roaddogsroadlog.blogspot.com.
A Good Way to Spend a Day. --RoadDog
YOU'RE A FLORIDIAN IF...you've driven through Yeehaw Junction. (?)
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Carolina for Thanksgiving 2010-- Part 3-- Virginia to Goldsboro
Day Three on the Road-- November 22nd
Drove that big decline down the mountains out of Virginia, a big reason I stayed in Wytheville last night, there was no way I wanted to do that at night.
I got off I-77 onto I-74 a short way and then NC-89 into Mt. Airy, North Carolina, where I was hoping to get a chance to eat at Snappy Lunch. I always like their free parking in the town. You don't get that in a lot of tourist places.
Hallelujah, Snappy Lunch was open and that means their famous pork chop sandwich, a real meal in itself. Snappy Lunch was mentioned in the Andy Griffith show and is a major destination for tourists to Mt. Airy, the town upon which Mayberry was based. Also, locals eat there. Most of the people there today were locals.
You have to get there before 1:30 pm because that's when they close. I sat at the counter and ordered the pork chop sandwich for $4. Pure heaven.
Afterwards, I did some shopping at the many souvenir stores along Main Street.
Took US-52 to Winston-Salem and played NTN at Greer's Sports Pun in Kernersville. Then, I got on I-40 and got off to play at Hooter's in Burlington.
Very happy to miss all the traffic congestion around during Durham and Raleigh. Arrived in Goldsboro about 5:00.
Turkey for Me. --RoadDog
Drove that big decline down the mountains out of Virginia, a big reason I stayed in Wytheville last night, there was no way I wanted to do that at night.
I got off I-77 onto I-74 a short way and then NC-89 into Mt. Airy, North Carolina, where I was hoping to get a chance to eat at Snappy Lunch. I always like their free parking in the town. You don't get that in a lot of tourist places.
Hallelujah, Snappy Lunch was open and that means their famous pork chop sandwich, a real meal in itself. Snappy Lunch was mentioned in the Andy Griffith show and is a major destination for tourists to Mt. Airy, the town upon which Mayberry was based. Also, locals eat there. Most of the people there today were locals.
You have to get there before 1:30 pm because that's when they close. I sat at the counter and ordered the pork chop sandwich for $4. Pure heaven.
Afterwards, I did some shopping at the many souvenir stores along Main Street.
Took US-52 to Winston-Salem and played NTN at Greer's Sports Pun in Kernersville. Then, I got on I-40 and got off to play at Hooter's in Burlington.
Very happy to miss all the traffic congestion around during Durham and Raleigh. Arrived in Goldsboro about 5:00.
Turkey for Me. --RoadDog
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Pretty Good Day Yesterday-- Part 3-- NTN Roadtrip
Next stop was only about five miles west of Union Grove in Kansasville, near the Wi-11/Wi-75 intersection, a place called Players Park, so-called because of the softball field located adjacent to it.
This is a free-standing structure and good-sized with a large stage. They have a machine with a boxing bag that scared us a bit when someone first hit it. After that, it just became annoying. The folks there were really into it.
They also had shots of pumpkin pie (if you've ever had an apple or cherry pie.
We had a #8 with Roadog #21.
A REAL BELLY BUSTER
If you come in for breakfast on the weekend, they have a way where you can get it for FREE!! It's called BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS and consists of a 12-egg omelet, 1 pound of hash browns and four pieces of toast (what, no bacon or sausage?!!).
If you can eat it all in thirty minutes, it's yours. Otherwise, it will cost $15.
Six people have their names on the plaque saying they were REAL hungry.
HOME PORT
We then drove on to our home NTN base, Donovan's Reef and played the game with five top twenties: #8, #5 Dblk #8, #12, #8 Parrot #14, #16 and #11 Lizard #1.
A Pretty Good Day That Veterans Day, November 11th. --RoadDog
SENIOR BUMPER SNICKERS: Senility Ain't Bad-- I can hide my own Easter eggs.
This is a free-standing structure and good-sized with a large stage. They have a machine with a boxing bag that scared us a bit when someone first hit it. After that, it just became annoying. The folks there were really into it.
They also had shots of pumpkin pie (if you've ever had an apple or cherry pie.
We had a #8 with Roadog #21.
A REAL BELLY BUSTER
If you come in for breakfast on the weekend, they have a way where you can get it for FREE!! It's called BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS and consists of a 12-egg omelet, 1 pound of hash browns and four pieces of toast (what, no bacon or sausage?!!).
If you can eat it all in thirty minutes, it's yours. Otherwise, it will cost $15.
Six people have their names on the plaque saying they were REAL hungry.
HOME PORT
We then drove on to our home NTN base, Donovan's Reef and played the game with five top twenties: #8, #5 Dblk #8, #12, #8 Parrot #14, #16 and #11 Lizard #1.
A Pretty Good Day That Veterans Day, November 11th. --RoadDog
SENIOR BUMPER SNICKERS: Senility Ain't Bad-- I can hide my own Easter eggs.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Pretty Good Day Yesterday-- Part 2-- NTN Road Trip
Well, Actually last Thursday, Veterans Day.
We decided to go for an NTN Road Trip up to Cheesehead Land and visit two new-to-us sites.
We first drove to Union Grove, Wisconsin. Coal Miners is located right downtown on main street which is US-45 which runs from Michigan's Upper Peninsula all the way south to Mobile, Alabama. We have drive most of the road at different times, including the whole way between Mobile and part way through Illinois.
They just got it recently and have the boards sitting out on the bar as well as TVs tuned to it. Always a good sign.
The place was originally called Coal Miners Daughter after the owners mother who was from Kentucky and was a Coal Miner's Daughter. I was wondering why the name since there are no coal mines around the area.
There was one ranking glitch and we figure we were at least Top Ten both bar and individual. We did get one game to rank and the bar was #3 and DBLK #9.
The local site rankings were pretty low though so hope they get some players.
Next Stop, Players Park. -- RoadDog
SENIOR BUMPER SNICKERS: Support bingo. Keep Grandma off the streets.
We decided to go for an NTN Road Trip up to Cheesehead Land and visit two new-to-us sites.
We first drove to Union Grove, Wisconsin. Coal Miners is located right downtown on main street which is US-45 which runs from Michigan's Upper Peninsula all the way south to Mobile, Alabama. We have drive most of the road at different times, including the whole way between Mobile and part way through Illinois.
They just got it recently and have the boards sitting out on the bar as well as TVs tuned to it. Always a good sign.
The place was originally called Coal Miners Daughter after the owners mother who was from Kentucky and was a Coal Miner's Daughter. I was wondering why the name since there are no coal mines around the area.
There was one ranking glitch and we figure we were at least Top Ten both bar and individual. We did get one game to rank and the bar was #3 and DBLK #9.
The local site rankings were pretty low though so hope they get some players.
Next Stop, Players Park. -- RoadDog
SENIOR BUMPER SNICKERS: Support bingo. Keep Grandma off the streets.
Monday, June 28, 2010
It's a Lincoln Thing-- Day 5-- Meeting, Civil War and Home
Saturday June 26th, we had the Lincoln Highway General membership meeting before leaving. Major topics were a needed dues increase and dropping the two 3-year term limits on national directors.
Sure wished I had gotten gas in Dixon before leaving, but forgot. Gas was $2.62 there and $2.70 to $2.90 the rest of the way home.
Went to Franklin Grove, Illinois', Chaplin Farm where they were having their third annual Civil War re-enactment. Met up with the members of the Rock Island POW Camp of the Sons of Confederate Veterans who had an enlistment booth there. Camp commander Jacob Lake and his father Tim were reenacting. This is the newest Illinois camp and is based out of Rockford.
The Illinois battery that was hosting the event actually was using two original Civil War 12 pounder Napoleons named Mary and Mollie. That is REAL history, not just re-enacting.
Drove the Lincoln back to Dekalb and took the several mile original gravel Lincoln between Franklin Grove and Ashton. Played NTN at a new site in Sycamore called Joker's. That made two new places for the trip.
Came home and had the glory of cutting the grass and working with the plants until eaten half alive by mosquitoes. sad to report that the lousy Japanese beetles are back.
Pretty Good Week. Got My Fill of the Old Lincoln Highway. --RoadDog
A big thanks to friend Lulu who sent these Retirement jokes.
Retirement Q & A: Question: How many days in a week? Answer: 6 Saturdays and 1 Sunday.
Sure wished I had gotten gas in Dixon before leaving, but forgot. Gas was $2.62 there and $2.70 to $2.90 the rest of the way home.
Went to Franklin Grove, Illinois', Chaplin Farm where they were having their third annual Civil War re-enactment. Met up with the members of the Rock Island POW Camp of the Sons of Confederate Veterans who had an enlistment booth there. Camp commander Jacob Lake and his father Tim were reenacting. This is the newest Illinois camp and is based out of Rockford.
The Illinois battery that was hosting the event actually was using two original Civil War 12 pounder Napoleons named Mary and Mollie. That is REAL history, not just re-enacting.
Drove the Lincoln back to Dekalb and took the several mile original gravel Lincoln between Franklin Grove and Ashton. Played NTN at a new site in Sycamore called Joker's. That made two new places for the trip.
Came home and had the glory of cutting the grass and working with the plants until eaten half alive by mosquitoes. sad to report that the lousy Japanese beetles are back.
Pretty Good Week. Got My Fill of the Old Lincoln Highway. --RoadDog
A big thanks to friend Lulu who sent these Retirement jokes.
Retirement Q & A: Question: How many days in a week? Answer: 6 Saturdays and 1 Sunday.
Friday, June 11, 2010
Not Jumping on the Bandwagon...But-- Part 5
You know you're starting to get "hooked" when you plan a trip around the Stanley Cup championship which is what just happened.
Wednesday, we wanted to make sure we would be able to see the game and preferably with some fans which always makes it more fun.
I EVEN went so far as to try to get a copy of the Fratellis' Costello Music album so that we could get the unofficial Blackhawks fight song/chant "Chelsea Dagger." I looked at the Best Buy in Dekalb, Illinois, on Tuesday, but they didn't have it, but I did buy the New Dierks Bentley and Chesterfield Kings albums. They would have charged $9.99 for the Fratellis if they had had it.
Wednesday, I looked in the Wal Mart in Kirkland, Missouri, but they didn't have it. BUT, while looking for the elusive BW3 (Buffalo Wild Wings) in Jefferson City, Missouri, we saw a place called Slackers which sold old CDs, so decided to check it out and they did have Costello Music, and for $5.99 used, so bought it.
We listened to it the rest of the way to the Lake of the Ozarks, and obviously "Chelsea Dagger" a REAL lot of times.
DA GAME, DA HAWKS, DA VICTORY!!
We even checked out whether there was a bar near the motel that we wanted to stay at which would be showing the game, and there was, Road Boaters.
We always play NTN at new sites when we're on the road, and one place in Osage Beach was called Chicago Brothers so figured with a name like that they might have some Hawks fans. They did, but at 9 miles from the motel, way too far.
We then played NTN at JJ Twiggs which has two bars. The one with NTN didn't even have the game on, but I discovered the smaller bar which had it on all TVs and had Hawks fans so ended up watching the first two periods there. The owners are also from up by us.
We had a lot of fun, but were still a mile from the motel, and fearful of the police and driving in unfamiliar territory, figured we'd better get closer, so saw third period and the OVERTIME VICTORY!! Unfortunately, no one else was much interested in the game, but we made up for it and even had another celebratory pitcher.
Liz also had plans for motels and bars should the Friday game have been necessary.
Mighty Fine!! Come On, Let's All Sing That Song. --RoadDog
I used to have a handle on life, but it broke. But at least the Hawks won.
Wednesday, we wanted to make sure we would be able to see the game and preferably with some fans which always makes it more fun.
I EVEN went so far as to try to get a copy of the Fratellis' Costello Music album so that we could get the unofficial Blackhawks fight song/chant "Chelsea Dagger." I looked at the Best Buy in Dekalb, Illinois, on Tuesday, but they didn't have it, but I did buy the New Dierks Bentley and Chesterfield Kings albums. They would have charged $9.99 for the Fratellis if they had had it.
Wednesday, I looked in the Wal Mart in Kirkland, Missouri, but they didn't have it. BUT, while looking for the elusive BW3 (Buffalo Wild Wings) in Jefferson City, Missouri, we saw a place called Slackers which sold old CDs, so decided to check it out and they did have Costello Music, and for $5.99 used, so bought it.
We listened to it the rest of the way to the Lake of the Ozarks, and obviously "Chelsea Dagger" a REAL lot of times.
DA GAME, DA HAWKS, DA VICTORY!!
We even checked out whether there was a bar near the motel that we wanted to stay at which would be showing the game, and there was, Road Boaters.
We always play NTN at new sites when we're on the road, and one place in Osage Beach was called Chicago Brothers so figured with a name like that they might have some Hawks fans. They did, but at 9 miles from the motel, way too far.
We then played NTN at JJ Twiggs which has two bars. The one with NTN didn't even have the game on, but I discovered the smaller bar which had it on all TVs and had Hawks fans so ended up watching the first two periods there. The owners are also from up by us.
We had a lot of fun, but were still a mile from the motel, and fearful of the police and driving in unfamiliar territory, figured we'd better get closer, so saw third period and the OVERTIME VICTORY!! Unfortunately, no one else was much interested in the game, but we made up for it and even had another celebratory pitcher.
Liz also had plans for motels and bars should the Friday game have been necessary.
Mighty Fine!! Come On, Let's All Sing That Song. --RoadDog
I used to have a handle on life, but it broke. But at least the Hawks won.
A 66 We Will Go-- Day 2-- The Lake and Da Hawks!!
Much nicer weather (sun and NO RAIN!!) on Wednesday and drove US-63 south from Ottumwa into Missouri past several Amish wagons on the road and lots of firework stands at the border.
Gas in Kirkland was $2.50 for regular. Stopped at Wal Mart to buy some VHS-C video tapes but they don't carry them anymore. Also checked out their declining CD selection for the Fratellis' "Costello Music" album for the song "Chelsea Dagger" (the Hawks song), but they didn't have it either.
Played NTN at TGIF's in Columbia and BW3 (Buffalo Wild Wings) in Jefferson City then took US-54 to the Lake of the Ozarks and got a room at the Shawnee Bluff Motel overlooking the lake and enjoyed the view awhile before driving to Osage Beach and playing NTN at Chicago Brothers and back to Lake Ozark where we did the same thing at JJ Twiggs, a new place near the Bagnall Dam.
If you're looking for a northwods lodge in the Ozarks, this is the place to go. JJ Twiggs started about 15 miles away from us back home in Illinois. Since the owners are from the Chicago area, we figured this might be a good place to catch the Blackhawks' Stanley Cup game and it was. There were several other fans there so we had a good time drinking and cheering the boys on.
We left after second period to go to a place across the road (Business US-54) from our motel, also a new one called Road Boaters (also the former JJ Twiggs location) and saw the rest of the game there. When the Flyers tied it up and it went into overtime, we figured the Hawks would lose, but THAT DIDN'T HAPPEN!!!!
Go Hawks!! Go Hawks!! Go Hawks!! NHL Stanley Cup Winners, Finally --RoadDog
I don't suffer from insanity. I enjoy every minute of it.
Gas in Kirkland was $2.50 for regular. Stopped at Wal Mart to buy some VHS-C video tapes but they don't carry them anymore. Also checked out their declining CD selection for the Fratellis' "Costello Music" album for the song "Chelsea Dagger" (the Hawks song), but they didn't have it either.
Played NTN at TGIF's in Columbia and BW3 (Buffalo Wild Wings) in Jefferson City then took US-54 to the Lake of the Ozarks and got a room at the Shawnee Bluff Motel overlooking the lake and enjoyed the view awhile before driving to Osage Beach and playing NTN at Chicago Brothers and back to Lake Ozark where we did the same thing at JJ Twiggs, a new place near the Bagnall Dam.
If you're looking for a northwods lodge in the Ozarks, this is the place to go. JJ Twiggs started about 15 miles away from us back home in Illinois. Since the owners are from the Chicago area, we figured this might be a good place to catch the Blackhawks' Stanley Cup game and it was. There were several other fans there so we had a good time drinking and cheering the boys on.
We left after second period to go to a place across the road (Business US-54) from our motel, also a new one called Road Boaters (also the former JJ Twiggs location) and saw the rest of the game there. When the Flyers tied it up and it went into overtime, we figured the Hawks would lose, but THAT DIDN'T HAPPEN!!!!
Go Hawks!! Go Hawks!! Go Hawks!! NHL Stanley Cup Winners, Finally --RoadDog
I don't suffer from insanity. I enjoy every minute of it.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Pretty Good Weekend-- April 25th
Sunday, I woke up before Liz and did a drive-around and followed US-14 into Chicago for awhile. Afterwards I went to Golf Mill Shopping Center in Niles, one of the first shopping centers built in the US, dating to 1950.
Went to Target and bought Greatest Hits CDs by Cheap Trick, Martina McBride and Judas Priest and an interesting one by the Dropkick Murphy's, Irish music with a heavy edge. Target opens into the mall so took a walk around it as well.
We then drove into Des Plaines, Illinois, and ate at the Choo Choo Restaurant where a model train brings your order to you. Quite an experience. I don't know who enjoyed it more, the little kids or adult kids.
Then went NTNing to Cheeseburger in Paradise, located a couple blocks from the Choo Choo and then up to Frank's in Northbrook which is part of the Algauers Restaurant/Hilton Hotel. Our wedding rehearsal dinner was held at Algauers back in August 1973 and we had never been back since then. We had never played at either of these places.
The rest of the day, we took pictures of homes and apartments Liz and I lived in over the years, including ones in Rolling Meadows, three in Palatine, one in Vernon Hills, one in Round Lake Beach, and the current one.
We also had a shake at Photos in Palatine which is on the site of the old Burger King that I worked at going through high school and some of college.
Lots of Stuff for One Day. --RoadDog
Life Before Computers: A cursor used profanity.
Went to Target and bought Greatest Hits CDs by Cheap Trick, Martina McBride and Judas Priest and an interesting one by the Dropkick Murphy's, Irish music with a heavy edge. Target opens into the mall so took a walk around it as well.
We then drove into Des Plaines, Illinois, and ate at the Choo Choo Restaurant where a model train brings your order to you. Quite an experience. I don't know who enjoyed it more, the little kids or adult kids.
Then went NTNing to Cheeseburger in Paradise, located a couple blocks from the Choo Choo and then up to Frank's in Northbrook which is part of the Algauers Restaurant/Hilton Hotel. Our wedding rehearsal dinner was held at Algauers back in August 1973 and we had never been back since then. We had never played at either of these places.
The rest of the day, we took pictures of homes and apartments Liz and I lived in over the years, including ones in Rolling Meadows, three in Palatine, one in Vernon Hills, one in Round Lake Beach, and the current one.
We also had a shake at Photos in Palatine which is on the site of the old Burger King that I worked at going through high school and some of college.
Lots of Stuff for One Day. --RoadDog
Life Before Computers: A cursor used profanity.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Seeking the Warm-- Part 9-- Mobile Bound
THROWED ROLLS
March 1st we checked out and drove US-98 along the coast to Pensacola and over that beautiful bridge to the city. Lots of traffic there.
First stop was Foley, Alabama, where we had a hankerin' for Lambert's Cafe, a real experience. Watch for those flying rolls and be prepared for some major eating. We also had to watch out for our waitress' practical jokes which made the experience even more fun.
Then, it was NTN Cruisin' east of the bay. First stop was Kelsy's west of Foley. Not much to look at, but really friendly people, including the guy who had gone to school with Mike Ditka and the couple who had lived along the Fox River south of McHenry in our neck of the woods.
Then, it was on to Fairhope and a stop at Tokyo Lounge and after that, the Top of the Bay in Daphne.
RAINING IN MY HEART
It was pouring by the time we got out of the last place and continued the rest of the night so didn't have much fun driving I-10 into Mobile. Took it to I-65 and then to Airport Road, one of the scariest places in the country to drive. You just don't know where you're going to get hit from. And, worse, it was rush hour.
We had to drive it way out west where we played some more NTN at the B-Dub and Boondocks (well deserved name). All five of these NTN Buzztime sites were new to us, bringing us up to 13 new places for the trip.
Ended up driving all the way back to I-65 to find a motel that wasn't too expensive. The Hampton said since we were seniors and it was storming, we could have a room for $110 plus tax. Got a room at the LaQuinta for $50.13 including tax.
Drove over to the nearby Wings and played some NTN before going back. We'd already played here before.
A Really Busy Day. --RoadDog
Ever stop to think, and forget to start again?
March 1st we checked out and drove US-98 along the coast to Pensacola and over that beautiful bridge to the city. Lots of traffic there.
First stop was Foley, Alabama, where we had a hankerin' for Lambert's Cafe, a real experience. Watch for those flying rolls and be prepared for some major eating. We also had to watch out for our waitress' practical jokes which made the experience even more fun.
Then, it was NTN Cruisin' east of the bay. First stop was Kelsy's west of Foley. Not much to look at, but really friendly people, including the guy who had gone to school with Mike Ditka and the couple who had lived along the Fox River south of McHenry in our neck of the woods.
Then, it was on to Fairhope and a stop at Tokyo Lounge and after that, the Top of the Bay in Daphne.
RAINING IN MY HEART
It was pouring by the time we got out of the last place and continued the rest of the night so didn't have much fun driving I-10 into Mobile. Took it to I-65 and then to Airport Road, one of the scariest places in the country to drive. You just don't know where you're going to get hit from. And, worse, it was rush hour.
We had to drive it way out west where we played some more NTN at the B-Dub and Boondocks (well deserved name). All five of these NTN Buzztime sites were new to us, bringing us up to 13 new places for the trip.
Ended up driving all the way back to I-65 to find a motel that wasn't too expensive. The Hampton said since we were seniors and it was storming, we could have a room for $110 plus tax. Got a room at the LaQuinta for $50.13 including tax.
Drove over to the nearby Wings and played some NTN before going back. We'd already played here before.
A Really Busy Day. --RoadDog
Ever stop to think, and forget to start again?
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Kross Inn
I should mention some prices at the Kross Inn which just got NTN-Buzztime.
A mug of beer is $1.50. Pints are $2. There are also daily drinks specials.
Tuesdays they have Italian beef and fries for $4.25.
Thursday are two burgers for the price of one. Mondays is the best with $3 burgers and $1 brats (both with fries). The brats taste as good as Johnsonvilles.
Good Eatin' and Drinkin', Cheap, and Now NTN!!! --RoadDog
A dog gave birth to puppies near the road and was cited for littering.
A mug of beer is $1.50. Pints are $2. There are also daily drinks specials.
Tuesdays they have Italian beef and fries for $4.25.
Thursday are two burgers for the price of one. Mondays is the best with $3 burgers and $1 brats (both with fries). The brats taste as good as Johnsonvilles.
Good Eatin' and Drinkin', Cheap, and Now NTN!!! --RoadDog
A dog gave birth to puppies near the road and was cited for littering.
Here's a New NTN-Buzztime Site That Might Make It
Yesterday, I stopped off at the Kross Inn in Fox Lake, Illinois, on Grand Avenue, after having those great 25 cent tacos at Rookies on Il-134.
On Monday, I had seen that they had just gotten NTN so wanted to check it out. This place has been there for many years and at one time was owned by Al and Marge who we know very well from the American Legion. This is not one of your BW3s, Friday's or that type of place.
I'd describe it as more of a Cheers place.
Considering they've just had it for a few days, I was surprised to see three people playing when I walked in. One was the bartender and every TV in the place was tunes to the game. This is a great indicator of a place that just might be a success with the game.
The bartender is really hooked on it and played whenever she wasn't serving customers.
When at least one TV is on the game and the bartender is a fan of the game, the chances of the game being a success increases dramatically.
We played well, but no Top Twenties as the games were "Seen Its" so a lot of really high and perfect scores from those who had obviously already seen them.
This brings my total of new-to-me sites visited for the year to 141, has to be some sort of record. I need to get myself a life.
Too Much NTN. --RoadDog
No matter how much you push the envelope, it will still be stationery.
On Monday, I had seen that they had just gotten NTN so wanted to check it out. This place has been there for many years and at one time was owned by Al and Marge who we know very well from the American Legion. This is not one of your BW3s, Friday's or that type of place.
I'd describe it as more of a Cheers place.
Considering they've just had it for a few days, I was surprised to see three people playing when I walked in. One was the bartender and every TV in the place was tunes to the game. This is a great indicator of a place that just might be a success with the game.
The bartender is really hooked on it and played whenever she wasn't serving customers.
When at least one TV is on the game and the bartender is a fan of the game, the chances of the game being a success increases dramatically.
We played well, but no Top Twenties as the games were "Seen Its" so a lot of really high and perfect scores from those who had obviously already seen them.
This brings my total of new-to-me sites visited for the year to 141, has to be some sort of record. I need to get myself a life.
Too Much NTN. --RoadDog
No matter how much you push the envelope, it will still be stationery.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
NTNin' Down Da Road
Of course, when I'm on the road, I always keep an eye out for a place to play NTN, especially now that my playing days are numbered what with this switch to e-mails only.
I didn't play at any place on my way to NC, or while I was there. Goldsboro doesn't have any sites and the short time I was in Greenville was taken up by the East Carolina game against Southern Mississippi.
I did play at four places on my way home:
PARKERSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA--
BW3 (Buffalo Wild Wings)
J.P. Henry's
BROWNSBURG, INDIANA
Quarter Mile Pub
Tripp's
This brings my total of NTN sites visited to 140 for the year and 854 overall. I doubt that anyone else has been to as many. These are all different sites.
Spendin' Too Much Time Playing NTN. --RoadDog
I didn't play at any place on my way to NC, or while I was there. Goldsboro doesn't have any sites and the short time I was in Greenville was taken up by the East Carolina game against Southern Mississippi.
I did play at four places on my way home:
PARKERSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA--
BW3 (Buffalo Wild Wings)
J.P. Henry's
BROWNSBURG, INDIANA
Quarter Mile Pub
Tripp's
This brings my total of NTN sites visited to 140 for the year and 854 overall. I doubt that anyone else has been to as many. These are all different sites.
Spendin' Too Much Time Playing NTN. --RoadDog
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
A Trip to the Land of the Cheeseheads
Monday was an exceedingly rare day of decent weather here in northern Illinois, so we took a trip to Wisconsin to view some fall color.
First stop was Lake Geneva where we did see color near the downtown. Then, it was a drive around the lake. There were some areas of color but mostly not. We figure peak color is a week away, so will get back next week.
Took the drive along Snake Road (drive it and you'll understand the name) west of Lake Geneva off Wi-50. This is classified as a Wisconsin Rustic Road. If there is a prettier drive anywhere, I'd like to know. Color was so-so, but the drive, as always, was fantastic.
Took I-43 from Elkhorn to Mukwanago and went to three new (to us) NTN sites: Boneyard Pub, Half Time and Double Ds. The first two were of the sports bar variety, but Double D's was very unique and a place we'd go back to visit next time in the area.
The Color That Got Away. --RoadDog
First stop was Lake Geneva where we did see color near the downtown. Then, it was a drive around the lake. There were some areas of color but mostly not. We figure peak color is a week away, so will get back next week.
Took the drive along Snake Road (drive it and you'll understand the name) west of Lake Geneva off Wi-50. This is classified as a Wisconsin Rustic Road. If there is a prettier drive anywhere, I'd like to know. Color was so-so, but the drive, as always, was fantastic.
Took I-43 from Elkhorn to Mukwanago and went to three new (to us) NTN sites: Boneyard Pub, Half Time and Double Ds. The first two were of the sports bar variety, but Double D's was very unique and a place we'd go back to visit next time in the area.
The Color That Got Away. --RoadDog
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Doing the NTN/Buzztime Thing
When Liz and I are on the road, we always try to go to as many NTN sites as we can, especially those we've never been to before. As such, we make heavy use of the sitefinder for the website.
Since Friday, we have gone to twenty new places: 14 in Missouri, 2 in Kentucky, 1 in NC, and 3 in SC.
That brings the total of new NTN/Buzztime sites since the beginning of the year to 43.
Too Old to Go Clubbin'. Too Young to Play Bingo. --RoadDog
Since Friday, we have gone to twenty new places: 14 in Missouri, 2 in Kentucky, 1 in NC, and 3 in SC.
That brings the total of new NTN/Buzztime sites since the beginning of the year to 43.
Too Old to Go Clubbin'. Too Young to Play Bingo. --RoadDog
Sunday, January 25, 2009
This One's for Gayle
Liz and I got together with good friend Gayle yesterday and played the NTN at B-Dubs in Dekalb, Illinois, where she is teaching at Northern Illinois University, our old alma mater. We surely never had as fun of a teacher as she is.
We also got together with her and friend Jeff last Sunday in Twin Lakes, Wisconsin for those fantastic Main Street Tap Bloody Mary's ($3 in a pint glass and worthy of the name meal in a glass with all the fixings). We had a discussion as to the relative merits of Absolut or rail vodka in a Bloody Mary. Gayle maintains Absolut makes a superior Bloody while I say with all the stuff in one, you can't taste the difference. Tried hers and still maintain my idea.
We then went to Donovan's Reef (a true Florida bar in cheesehead land)and played NTN. We definitely got the name across national rankings with ten top twenties, including a couple number ones during lunch time trivia.
Gayle is a Mighty Fine NTN Player. No More Eagle Excrement Stories. --RoadDog
We also got together with her and friend Jeff last Sunday in Twin Lakes, Wisconsin for those fantastic Main Street Tap Bloody Mary's ($3 in a pint glass and worthy of the name meal in a glass with all the fixings). We had a discussion as to the relative merits of Absolut or rail vodka in a Bloody Mary. Gayle maintains Absolut makes a superior Bloody while I say with all the stuff in one, you can't taste the difference. Tried hers and still maintain my idea.
We then went to Donovan's Reef (a true Florida bar in cheesehead land)and played NTN. We definitely got the name across national rankings with ten top twenties, including a couple number ones during lunch time trivia.
Gayle is a Mighty Fine NTN Player. No More Eagle Excrement Stories. --RoadDog
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