Panama Cruise, Orlando Area Golf, Orlando Florida,Ice Age Trail (April & May), NGAUS New Orleans, Houston Astors, Geroge Bush Pres, Waco Mammoth, Texas Rangers Museum, George W Bush Pres, Texas Rangers
Ice Age Trail travels for April and May are toward the end of this post. Travels for the Ice Age Trail from June, July August and September, October, November are on separate posts, I plan to visit ballparks in Tampa, Houston, Dallas, and Phoenix. I’ll stop to see what I can see at three of
the National Park Service National Monuments (Civil Rights NMon, Waco Mammoth NMon, Castle Mountains NMon) created
by Obama that will bring to total number
of visits to 407 of 417 and finally;. . . . I’ve been planning/considering a 1000+ Mile Walk on the Ice Age National Scenic Trail
(actually just shor of 1,200 miles) . . . . . I intend to walk the trail in segments –
12-16+ miles a day - not continuous. Not sure about camping on the trail and not
100% sure I really want to do it all – but I do plan to give it a try. Walking the trail would be in preparation for
more adventures in the Grand Canyon, Capitol Reef, Zion, Canyonlands, Yosemite,
and Bryce Canyon National Parks next year - well maybe
Looking for a trailer?
My 26 foot 2013 Dutchmen Kodiak is on Craig’s List. If it doesn’t sell by summer I’ll probably
take it out of storage and use it.
HOLLAND AMERICA
PANAMA CANAL SUNFARER
CRUISE
WEDNESDAY February 7, 2018
WEATHER: it snowed in Milwaukee
overnight, T-Storms in the Atlanta area around 9 am EST
TRAVEL: Fly MKE-ATL-FLL – cab to Port
Everglades board the Holland
America cruise ship Zuiderdam for an 11 night Panama
Canal Sunfarer (Fort
Lauderdale round trip)
Well that’s the
way it was supposed to happen . . . .
In reality the
plane was diverted to Nashville due to a T-Storm in Atlanta – I didn’t get into
Atlanta until 1:15 pm. I was supposed to be in Fort Lauderdale around
noon. It takes almost 2 hours to fly to
Fort Lauderdale - and DELTA had not yet scheduled me on a flight. There was no way I could make a ship
departure of 4 pm.
RECOVERY: I called Holland
America to let them
know I was not going to be on board. The
ship was docking on a private island (without air access) Thursday and would be
at sea on Friday. Saturday would be my
first opportunity to catch up with the ship in Aruba.
I had travel
insurance and it appeared that expenses up to $1000 may be covered due to a
flight weather delay that caused me to miss the ship departure.
I called my travel
agent – One World Travel in Burlington and
as usual, they did a wonderful job of assisting me.- arranging for a 2
night stay at Barcelo Aruba, an all-inclusive resort – while I arranged a DELTA flight to Aruba.
DELTA arranged a one
way flight from Atlanta to Aruba – leaving Atlanta on Thursday – at no additional
cost. I was surprised . . . . . no
questions asked . . . . and my luggage which by 4:30 pm was on its way to Fort
Lauderdale, was supposed to be back in Atlanta by Thursday morning on my flight
to Aruba.
Accommodations
were made to stay at a Holiday Inn Express near the airport (my dime).
I had meant to
arrive in Fort Lauderdale on Tuesday (a day before the ship left port) but got
the dates mixed up and actually made the flight out the day after the
ship arrived in port. I’m glad I
purchased the travel insurance – but now have to go through a claims
process. Always an adventure.
THURSDAY FEBRUARY 8, 2018
WEATHER: 37 in Atlanta at 6 am – forecast
high in the 50’s. Aruba in the 80’s –
always a wind from the east.
TRAVEL: Flight from Atlanta to Aruba. ILO Half Moon Cay, Bahamas (cruise line
private island) 3 hour 26 minute flight. My bag was on the flight.
 |
| Balashi local beer Aruba |
The local beer
is Balashi. However, the Barcelo serves Presidente (Mexican beer)
on tap.
There are five
restaurants in the hotel. For
dinner: Arubian Seafood, L’Otto-Italian,
Kyoto-Oriental, and Mexico Lindo. The
Beach Club for breakfast lunch or dinner and the Palm buffet for breakfast or
dinner. I ate steak and shrimp for dinner at the Beach Club.
Oranjestad, ARUBA – “One Happy Island” A former Dutch colony, still under Dutch
control. The capital is Oranjestad, the
governor is appointed by the royalty of the Netherlands.
 |
| Barcelo Aruba - looking out from my room - pool bar center |
Aruba is 19.6 miles long and 6 miles across at its widest point. Located about 15 miles north of Venezuela, it has an average temperature of 84 degrees F, and is in the Atlantic Time Zone (on hour earlier than Eastern Time). Power is 110/220 volts and unlike the US Virgin Islands (a former Dutch colony) they drive on the right hand side of the road.
FRIDAY FEBRUARY 9, 2018
 |
| Barcelo - view from the patio of the buffet |
WEATHER: 80’s wind from the east
TRAVEL: Barcelo Resort Aruba ILO At Sea
BARCELO ARUBA – up at 5:45 – exercised and walked the beach hotels .
. . . breakfast at the Palm Buffet.
 |
| Barcelo Resort - beach |
The shops accept
dollars but the currency is Floren . . . . .
I called Holland
America to confirm that
I will board the ship tomorrow in Aruba – all seems like it will be OK.
Decided on an
adventure at the Kyoto Restaurant – I was forewarned by the Concierge that the style
is low table sitdown – Japanese style – haven’t don’t that since 1989 - I had a
dinner with some American & Japanese soldiers in Sendai, Japan . Later cancelled - didn't want to sit.
 |
| Off Road Adventure Vehicle - a 9 passenger jeep |
WEATHER: 80’s, windy, mostly clear . .
didn’t leave port until 2300
SUNRISE: 0703 SUNSET:
1915 AST
TRAVEL: Oranjestad, Aruba
BARCELO ARUBA - arranged for a guided
off-road adventure tour of the island
via a 9 passenger jeep. Stops included local
landmarks: the Natural Pool, Natural
Bridge, Bushribana Gold Mill Ruins, Wariruri (Baby Natural Bridge), Alto Vista
Chapel and the California Lighthouse.
Pickup at the
hotel 8 am – return about 1 pm. This was
a worthwhile tour – the windward side of the island is a ORV/Mountain Bike
paradise. There are plenty of options,
such as drive your own ATV, etc, and plenty of trails to get lost on. I think I picked the best choice by leaving
the driving to a ‘professional’ – at least he knew the island and it’s
trail. There were a total of 4 vehicles
on the tour.
 |
| Natural Pool - not conducive to swimming today |
Natural Pool – Located in Aruba’s National Park, the Natural Pool is on a deserted
stretch of coastline, with dramatic shows of water spraying over the
rocks. Especially today where the waves
were driven high by winds. The pool was
anything but tranguil and swimming in it was deemed too dangerous. When quiet, a unique formation of rock,
volcanic stone circles a small depression, creating a tranquil pool known
locally as “conchi” or “Cura di Tortuga.”
 |
| Casibari Rock Formation There are trails up and through the rocks. Aruba is a a desert |
Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins – in the
 |
| Bushiribi Gold Mill Ruins |
 |
| Alto Vista Chapel |
 |
| Alto Vista Chapel |
 |
| California Lighthouse |
California Lighthouse – Found on the north side of the island, the hilltop landmark was built in 1914 to warn ships nearing Aruba. Also known as “Hudishibana,” it was names after an American Steamship that wrecked off the shore in the late 1800’s. The lighthouse was completely renovated and is in operation.
 |
| Picture of What Natural Bridge Used to Look Like |
Natural Bridge – waves and winds chiseled way at limestone cliffs along Aruba’s north coast to create several natural bridges. The largest was the famous Natural Bridge which collapses on September 2, 2005. The natural arch (as it used to be) measured 25 ft high and 100 ft long. It was a remnant of an ancient cave. The collapsed bridge now blocks the ocean from the beach, creating sprays when waves crash against the rocks. ,
 |
| Natrual Bridge - after the collapse |
Returned back to
the Barcelo Resort – had my last two ‘free’ beers and caught a cab for
the dock.
 |
| Holland America's - Zuiderdam docked in Willemstad, Curacao |
Boarded around 2:15
pm . . . they entry was actually easy –
the staff knew who I was and was ready to process me aboard. My cabin is on the Upper Promonade deck (4th
Deck starboard side. I explored the ship,
sat in the sun for about an hour had a late lunch and several beers. I went to dinner around 7:30 pm. Somehow I had open seating - - -
I requested to be seated at a table for 8 on Sunday and Monday at 7:45
pm.
2030 B.B. Kings Blues
Club – the All Stars played a 45 minute set – not even traditional blues – really
kind of hard to describe what they played – Sinatra? - good not great –
actually kind of boring.
SUNDAY FEBRUARY 11, 2018
WEATHER: Curacao - mostly sunny, showers
in the morning, 77 at 0920
, 89% humidity,
winds ESE 14 mph
SUNRISE: 0658 SUNSET 1841
AST
TRAVEL: Willemstad, Curacao (cur–a–sow) several other
ships in port
0700 Exercise of
60 minutes
0900 Breakfast
 |
| Willemstad, Curacao - view from the ship at dock |
Willemstad, Curacao - a pastel skyline of painted Dutch architecture
lines the waterfront. Locals say it was
the 19th century Governor-General Albert Kikkert who is responsible
for this colorful architecture. Legend
has it that he suffered from migraine headaches that he attributed to the harsh
reflections fot he sun on the white buildings of Willemstad. Thus a decree was issued to paint the
structures any color other than white.
Buildings were Caribbean blues, greens, yellows and reds. The city itself is a blend of cultures, from
the languages spoken to the cuisine that can be found in the port. ..
Aptly named the
“C” in the Dutch ABC islands, Curacao is the largest most populated and most
cosmopolitan of the former Lesser Antilles.
Named for the Portuguese word “heart “ upon discovery in 1499, this
island is rooted in history.
 |
| Barefoot Crossing - the floating bridge view from the deck of the Zuiderdam |
Barefoot Crossing – Built in 1856, the floating Queen Emma Bridge is
affectionately called “the Swinging Old Lady.”
You can walk across for free but until 1934 anyone wearing shores had to
pay a two cent toll. Rich Willemstad
residents went barefoot to avoid payment.
Poorer ones took the opposite approach; they donned their rarely worn
shoes specifically for crossing s and proudly forked over the fee.
 |
| Blue Curacao Why is it blue? Nobody knows. |
 |
| Brion - local beer |
When Is Orange Blue – The orange liquor you taste called Blue Curaciao might not be from Curacao. That’s because the name isn’t patented. Almost anything can be called Blue Curacao. The real deal must be made on the island using the peels of the laraha orange which grows only here. And it must be blue , though no one knows why.
1700 Mass – Hudson Room Homily was about the leper who was cured – cured and you will find yourself clean.” A double cleansing: 1) of sores and 2) of being ostracized.
The priest
reminds us that Cartegena was a hub of the slave trade – home of St. Peter
Clavier – and that people are still ostracized because of color, sex, physical
or mental disability and economics.
1945 Dinner - Caesar Sald and Mahu Mahi with coucus –
delicious. Requested seating at a large table and was sat at a table for
6. A couple in their 50’s from Oregon
(the woman was a geriatric physician);
Another couple from Charleston, South Carolina – a retired Navy Doctor
and his wife, probably in their late 70’s; and a German gentleman who was a
retired design engineer ( his wife passed 3 years ago – they were married 52
years). Enjoyable conversation – much
better than eating alone.
2200 Island
Magic – Main Stage. A 4 piece steel band
from Trinidad/Tobago (islands off Venezuela) with a unique twist this evening
playing Broadway and Classical pieces. Unique
– but not impressive.
MONDAY FEBRUARY 12, 2018
WEATHER: 90 at 1630 sunny all day, seas
5-7 feet
TRAVEL: At Sea all day
0725 Exercise 4
miles on Promenade Deck
1000 Talk The
Panama Canal Journey Mainstage
2&3
1100 Mariner’s Club Brunch I received an
invitation to attend this brunch but missed the time – I thought it was noon
not 1100
1650 Happy Hour at the Ocean Bar
– had a pleasant conversation with a gentleman from San Francisco.
1800 Movie:
American Experience Panama Screening
Room 2
1920 Piano
Recital Explorers
Lounge 2 – “Gates of Kiev”
1945 Dinner –
Asparagus with Artichoke Hearts and Prime Rib.- seated at a table with a couple
from St. Croix, MN (Packer & Badger fans) – the woman grew up in Arkansaw,
WI, he was from Wabasha, MN and a lady from Fort Worth, TX. Enoyable conversation.
Movies shown on board were movies already seen: Dunkirk and Blade Runner 2049.
TUESDAY FEBRUARY 13, 2018
WEATHER: 73 at 0530 EST, seas 5-7 feet
plus most of the night
SUNRISE: 0622 SUNSET:
1810 EST
TRAVEL: Cartegena, Columbia - gained one hour, back to EST
Cartegena – Arrival 0700 All
Aboard 1230
The movie on
board today is “Romancing the Stone.”
Imagine that!
 |
| Castillo San Felipe de Barajas |
Land & Sea Tour: 0730 boarded a bus to Castle San Felipe; walk through ‘old
 |
| Castillo San Felipe de Barajas |
Sir Francis Drake sailed into Cartegena harbor in 1586 and accepted a
10 million peso ransom from the Spanish for not burning the city. By 1686, the
Spanish built a series of forts surrounding the harbor. One fort had walls 50 feet thick.
 |
| Castillo San Felipe de Barajas |
 |
| Don Blas de Lezo |
 |
| Cartegena street |
 |
| Club Columbia local beer |
 |
| Church of St. Peter Claver |
1700 Mass – interesting homily - the priest
referenced being a ‘servant’ and again tied into the story of Peter
Claver who served the
sick and dying slaves that entered the Port of Cartagena – for 40 years and
baptized over 300,000 – he further drew an analogy to an American who is being
considered for sainthood – the person, whose name began with a G, came to North
America in the late18th century founded a PA town called
Loretto – other servant
references to those who care for sick and elderly.
1900 Dinner – with couples in their late 70’s
early 80’s - from Michigan and Massachusetts – Enjoyable conversation
WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 14, 2018
ASH
WEDNESDAY A Day of Fast & Abstinence also VALENTINE’S DAY
WEATHER: 79 at 5 am, 83 at 1:30 pm
SUNRISE: 0639 SUNSET:
1838 EST
 |
| Northbound - headed to the Gatun Locks |
TRAVEL: Panama Canal (enter at Christobal) (AR 0500)
Interesting story on
TV news today – ‘the army is changing its approach to training’ – today it’s
added tougher DISCIPLINE because – so one LTC says – ‘Millennials feel too
entitled’ - bottom line there is one color in the army
“green” – no room and no time for entitlement – just interesting that with the
Generation X’ers, the army decided to add VALUES (Loyalty, Duty, Respect,
Selflless, Honor, Integrity, Personal Courage) in one more week of Basic
Training.
Today just may
be a day of leisure – exercise – sun – reading – and beverages.
EST
0500 Pass Breakwater
0730 Enter Gatun Locks Southbound
0915 Exit Gatun Locks Southbound
1000 Anchor in Gatun Lake
1200 Lunch in the Lido with two ladies from Niagara, Canada
– good conversation
1245 Enter Gatun Locks Northbound
1430 Exit Gatun Locks Northbound
1600 extended 2 hour Happy Hour
1700 Arrive in Colon
2030 All Aboardl
After dinner
caught the end of Planet Earth II, in concert, shown on the Main Stage.
 |
| Northbound - the bridge from the stern |
 |
| Northbound the 1st chamber of the Gatun Lock |
 |
| Northbound - what's left of the old French canal |
 |
| Northbound - Gatun Lock |
The waterway is
managed by the Panama Canal Authority (ACA for its Spanish acronym) an autonomous
government entity.
The cost of the Zuiderdam to use the Panama Canal was
$348,000.
The Panama
Canal has three locks
and several chambers raising the ship 85 feet and then through the Culebra Cut
and into the Pacific Ocean. The canal
actually runs North/South across the Isthmus of Panama.
 |
| Gatun Lock - gravity flow of water into adjacent chamber |
Gatun Lake is a fresh water lake by building a dam on the Chagres
River. The water is used to raise the ships to the
level of Gatun Lake, 85’ above sea level and allow crossing
of the Continental Divide..
 |
| Southbound - Gatun Lock |
Ships exit the
canal through the San Miguel Locks, Miraflores Lake and the Miraflores
Locks.
There are
several ongoing projects to improve the canal.
A suspension bridge is being built on the Atlantic side of Panama to
facilitate land traffic across the canal, eliminating the long lines of
vehicles that form to cross a one lane road across one of the gates.
Additionally the
Canal Expansion Project will add a third lane of traffic and transit of
larger ships with larger cargo capacity.
The project began in 2007 and will double the capacity of the Canal.
.
Panama Canal
(exit at Christobal) (LV 1500)
 |
| Got off the ship to buy this local beer but brought it back on board to drink it |
 |
| Colon - not a tourist place |
THURSDAY FEBRUARY 15, 2018
WEATHER: 72 at 0530; 79 at 1030 79%
humidity; cloudy with short showers all day
SUNRISE: 0551 SUNSET: 1740
CST
Gained another
hour of time by going to CST
TRAVEL: Puerto Limon, Costa Rica
 |
| Costa Rican beer in the Chinese bar |
 |
| This was a Chinese bar it played awful music |
Christopher Columbus was forced to drop anchor near Puerto Limon in order to recover from a hurricane. It allowed him to explore the land while making repairs. He described a place where he had seen “more gold in two days then he had seen in four years in Spain,” simply calling it “The Rich Coast.” After his return to Spain he asked the government of Spain to name him Governor or Costa Rica. Instead, a rival was named governor who later declared the place ”the poorest and most miserable in all the America’s.”
It was only
after Costa Rica fought and won its independence from Spain in 1821 that its true riches
were revealed: fertile land for growing coffee.
Puerto Limon would become the main port for exporting coffee. More recently, tourism, particularly
‘eco-tourism’ has beat both
coffee and bananas.
I had a Monster Bus & Rainforest Expedition planned, but it was cancelled several weeks ago due to “operational” problems.
A short trip
ashore revealed a warehouse district near the dock and a place where I could
buy postcards and have a local beer..
0700 Arrive Puerto Limon, Costa Rica - Exercise
1530 All Aboard
1930 Dinner with couples from Calgary, Canada,
Washington, DC area and Kathleen and Steve (Oregon) from Sunday’s dinner.
FRIDAY FEBRUARY 16, 2018
WEATHER: 79 at 0630; 85
at 1530 63% humidity
SUNRISE: 0651 SUNSET:
1829 EST
Lost an hour by
going to EST
TRAVEL: At Sea
- seas 3-5 feet in the morning;
1-3 feet in the afternoon
0800 Mass –
readings had to do with fast and Jesus as the bridegroom – the homily touched
on Lenten fast and the basis of our faith in Judean-Christian values – the
basis is built on Jewish tradition – the priest referenced a Rabbi who
suggested that we fast/abstain from complaining
. . . .
1000 On Deck For
A Cause – a 1 hour 4 mile walk for cancer
1500 Black Label
Photograph
1930 Gala Dinner
– dinner with a couple from the UK and the couple from Calgary (Roger &
Melanie) who I had dinner with last night:
a very pleasant evening of conversation.
SATURDAY FEBRUARY 17, 2018
WEATHER: 78 at 0630; 77 at 0800, 71%
humidity, partly cloudy, heading NW at 19.7 knots (22.7 mph), water depth 4,144
feet; clear and sunny skies by 1000
SUNRISE: 0708 SUNSET:
1838 EST
TRAVEL: At Sea, waves 1-3 feet
0815 Dining Room breakfast with couples from
Mukwonago and Maryland
1000 Review Black Label Photograph session
1000 Ask The Captain Main Stage 2/3 – a virtual bridge tour
1200 Lunch Pinnacle Grill 2
1400 Talk: The Real Caribbean Pirates Encounters
Room 10
1700 Mass Hudson
Room 3 - the priest tied the days of the
cruse together as the ‘hand of God’ -
majesty and power: the sea –man” the panama canal – peace and suffering:
Cartegena and Peter Claver – Lent;fasting with the story of the Rabbi and
spouse who gave up comlainnig. We all
have so much to be thankful for – we are blessed.
A lazy day . . .
. I spent an hour in the Casino playing video poker . . it cost me $10.
SUNDAY FEBRUARY 18, 2018
WEATHER: 72 at 0615
TRAVEL: Fort Lauderdale, FL
TRAVEL LOG: 11 Day
Cruise (for me only 9 days)
Fort Lauderdale - Half
Moon Cay 269 miles Day1
Half Moon Cay - Oranjestad,
Aruba 836 miles Day 2 & 3
Oranjestad,
Aruba - Willemstad,
Curacao 69 miles Day
4
Willemstad,
Caracao Categena, Columbia 453 miles Day 5
Cartegena, Columbia Panama Canal 272 miles Day
6 & 7
Panama Canal - Colon,
Panama 9 miles Day
8
Colon, Panama - Puerto
Limon, Costa Rica 192 miles Day 9
Puerto Limon,
Costa Rica Fort Lauderdale
1,197 miles Day 10 & 11
TOTAL 3,297 miles
 |
| The ship returned to Fort Lauderdale traveling west of Cuba then east |
0645 US Customs requires guests who embark at any
port other than the vessel’s scheduled embarkation port to report to US Customs
prior to general embarkation. So I
showed up at the Gallery Bar with luggage for escort to US Customs.
Early
embarkation – off the boat tand through Customs by 0730 – a $10 ride to the
Hilton. The City must be broke – cab driver could not change a 20; the hotel
desk did not have change, the café did not have change – the cabbie’s credit
card machine was broke – gave him 10 no tip.
 |
| Hilton Marina - Fort Lauderdale front - cloudy in the monring |
 |
| Hilton Marina - Fort Lauderdale view from 14th floor |
Expensive Hilton – no restaurants – a pool bar
with some sandwiches – I ordered a hamburger – 45 minutes later still no burger
– when it did come the waiter apologized and there was no charge
No towels at the
pool – the lobby always appears crowded with people coming and going - on cruise ships – few on
this staff know anything about service – maybe a new manager is in order - or maybe because it was Sunday.
The WIFI
worked excellent
in the morning – and they put me on the top 14th floor – but I can’t
wait to get out of here
WEDNESDAY March 7, 2018
 |
| Entrance |
WEATHER: cold in Milwaukee - much warmer in Orlando
TRAVEL: Fly MKE-DTW-MCO – rent a Chevrolet Cruze; drive Hilton
Tuscany Village
Dinner at Raglan Road – Disney
Springs
THURSDAY March 8, 2018
WEATHER: 47 at 7 am – sunny to partly cloudy – really windy by 11 am
which made it feel cooler the the low 70’s
 |
| Lake Buena Vista Golf Club Club House/Pro Shop in backgournd |
The Club House
staff gave us each a free bucket of balls for the driving range
Tee Time: 0730 Played with a guy form
Vermont -
I was chosen as the
Magic Moment Player of the Day – I got a
certificate, personalized course guide and
was able to chose the pin placement on the 9th Hole – a free round
of golf could have been better
Couldn’t really
find the magic – but a great place to play golf
. . . .
 |
| Magical Moments Certificate 18th Green in the Background |
Tee Time: 1242 – Golfed with a couple from Buffalo, NY –again a fun couple Shot 49/50
Dinner at Longhorn Steak House
FRIDAY March 9, 2018
WEATHER: 42 at 7 am - sunny all day – but didn’t get much above 70
– got windy by noon but not as windy as yesterday
TRAVEL: Hilton Tuscany Village to Disney - Magnolia Golf Course
 |
| Layout of Magnolia & Palm Golf Courses |
 |
| Magnolia #10 tee Each hole had a bit of history |
 |
| Magnolia #10 |
Tee Time: 1312 We golfed with a woman in her
early 30’s and a man in his 60’s – they were fun from the beginning - we had a good time . . . . un-fortunately we teed off after a Golf
Outing – play was slow - Shot on the FRONT 46 and on the BACK 50 – finished in 4 ½ hours
Dinner at Bahama Breeze – they have a ‘mean’ 32 oz Margarita – I did not imbibe – the cocoanut
shrimp was good
SATURDAY March 10, 2018
WEATHER: 47 at tee time – warmed up - sunny in the morning – clouded up around 11
am
Tee Time: 0739 Played with a couple (age 60) from New Jersey – at first we thought they
were “country club stuck-ups” – but they warmed up and were a lot of fun to
play with . . . . Shot 48 on
the FRONT and 48 on
the BACK – finished in 4
hours an 10 minutes
Lunch at Disney
- Shades of Green -
Tee Time: 1312 Played with two young guys (attorneys)–
my brother and these guys all played from the Blue Tees – macho - .- I stayed with the GOLD –
Shot 54 on the FRONT and 51 on the BACK - I think I was getting tired –
finished in 4 hours and 30 minutes
 |
| Palm - this course had some pretty holes THis is #3 a Par 3 |
Had a beverage
at Port Orleans – Riverside
Pizza in the
room from Hilton – Tuscany Village
SUNDAY March 11, 2018
SPRING AHEAD – Daylight Saving Time
 |
| Queen of the Universe Entrance |
WEATHER: 63 at 5 am - mostly sunny am , partly cloudy in the pm - forecast
high of 81
TRAVEL: Orlando area
Mass – Shrine
of Our Lady of the Universe – the priest had a heavy NY/NJ accent – the readings and homily were not
memorable – an outstanding chorale - 6
voices – very distinct harmonies – just very, very good
I set my watch back not forward –
I was 2 hours late for “Bahama Time” at Hilton Sea World.
A day of leisure – drove to Hilton Parc Soleil, PGA Golf Shop,
Hilton
Sea World, Bahama Breeze
MONDAY March 12, 2018
WEATHER: 70 at 0630 – forecast high of 71
– drizzled on and off – cool in the morning – cloudy in the afternoon –
probably never higher than 70
TRAVEL: Hilton Tuscany Village to Disney
- Lake Buena Vista Golf Course
Tee Time: 0748 Shot 49
on the front/50 on the back. Played with
a nice guy from Queens, NY in 3 hours and 40 minutes. On the course again received several 2:1
beverage certificates. Compliments to
the staff here – however, the service was better last week.
 |
| Lake Buena Vista Dock |
Tee Time: 1321 – Shot 49/51 – played the first 5 holes along until the guy who
was late for the tee time caught up – the gent was from Japan here at Disney to
attend a conference. Still fast play –
finished in 3 hours and 50 minutes.
Applebee’s associated with the HIE was a downer
for food and service – However, after my brother complained about the “tough
ribs” . . . the entire bill which should have been at
least $60 with beverages came in at $5. Well at least someone knew something was not
going well. Unfortunate – first bad
Applebee’s I’ve been to – and been to quite a few all over the US.
TUESDAY March 13, 2018
WEATHER: 70 at 0630 – forecast high of 71
– possible rain
TRAVEL: Hilton Tuscany Village - home
MONDAY March 26, 2018
WEATHER: 23 at 4 am – mostly clear –
until Indianapolis where it got cloudy, it was 28 and most of Indiana had snow
on the ground . . . . .60 and cloudy in Columbia, TN – still cloudy . – got
windy and cooler in the afternoon. . . .
TRAVEL: Home to Holiday Inn Express,
Springhill, TN 593 miles – 9 hours 15
minutes - averaged 29.3 mpg - about 68
mph
Bear Track’s Bar & Grill – Columbia, TN – a bar at the end of a CITGO - -
what a crew – very local – very friendly – it was 4:30 in the afternoon and the
bartender was well on his way – so was the cook and most of the clientele –I
had a burger – 3 Lite’s and by way of the bartender offered 3 concoctions
(pink, grapefruit and gummi bears) – never finished the pink or the gummi bears
– the burger was more than edible and I’d go back again.
TUESDAY March 27, 2018
WEATHER: 49 and cloudy at 0600 CDT
Columbia, TN 70 at Fort Benning around 1500
Sunrise: 0642 CDT
Columbia, TN Sunset: 1956 EDT Fort Benning, GA
TRAVEL: Holiday Inn Express, Spring
Hill, TN to Civil Rights National Monument, Birmingham, AL to the
Gavin House, Fort Benning, GA – the University Inn at Maxwell
AFB in Montgomery didn’t
have an open room . . . . when I was
there 2 years ago Obama landed in Air
Force One and then took
one of three Marine helo’s to visit the commemoration of the Birmingham
Bridge March
405 CIVIL RIGHTS NATIONAL MONUMENT
Civil Rights Institute, Birmingham, AL
Created on January
12, 2017 by Presidential
Proclamation of Barack
Obama, 3 days before her
left office.
 |
| A.. G. Gaston Motel located just behind/adjacenet to the Civil Rights Institute. Yes, that is a Park Ranger - t the only evidence of NPS ownership. |
Birmingham
Civil Rights National Monument is a new national
park unit located in Birmingham, Alabama. It is a park in progress with limited
services, and in the coming years services will be added to the park in
cooperation with our partners.
 |
| 16th Street Baptist Church located across the street from the Civil Rights Institute |
The A.G. Gaston Motel (Gaston Motel), located in Birmingham, Alabama, is within walking distance of the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, Kelly Ingram Park, and other landmarks of the American civil rights movement (movement), served as the headquarters for a civil rights campaign in the spring of 1963. The direct action campaign -- known as "Project C" for confrontation -- challenged unfair laws designed to limit the freedoms of African Americans and ensure racial inequality. Throughout the campaign, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Reverend Ralph David Abernathy of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), Reverend Fred L. Shuttlesworth of the Alabama Christian Movement for Human Rights (ACMHR), and other movement leaders rented rooms at the Gaston Motel and held regular strategy sessions there. They also staged marches and held press conferences on the premises. Project C succeeded in focusing the world's attention on racial injustice in America and creating momentum for Federal civil rights legislation that would be enacted in 1964.
The
Gaston Motel, the highest quality
accommodation in Birmingham in 1963 that accepted African Americans, was itself
the product of segregation. Arthur
George (A.G.) Gaston, a successful African American businessman whose
enterprises addressed the needs of his segregated community, opened the motel
in 1954 to provide "something fine that...will be appreciated by our people."
In the era of segregation, African Americans faced inconveniences, indignities,
and personal risk in their travels. The conveniences and comforts of the Gaston
Motel were a rarity for them. The motel hosted many travelers over the years,
including business and professional people; celebrities performing in the city;
participants in religious, social, and political conferences; and in April-May
1963, the movement leaders, the press, and others who would bring Project C to
the world stage. During Project C, King and
Abernathy occupied the motel's main
suite, Room 30, located on the second floor above the office and lobby, and
they and their colleagues held most of their strategy sessions in the suite's
sitting room.
The
events at the Gaston Motel drew attention
to State and local laws and customs that -- a century after the Civil War --
promoted racial inequality. In January 1963, incoming Alabama Governor George Wallace declared, "Segregation
now! Segregation tomorrow! Segregation forever!" Birmingham,
Alabama's largest city, was a bastion of segregation, enforced by law, custom,
and violence. The city required the separation of races at parks, pools,
playgrounds, hotels, restaurants, theaters, on buses, in taxicabs, and
elsewhere. Zoning ordinances determined where African Americans could purchase
property, and a line of demarcation created a virtual wall around the Fourth
Avenue business district that served the African American community. Racial
discrimination pervaded housing and employment. Violence was frequently used to
intimidate those who dared to challenge segregation. From 1945 to 1963,
Birmingham witnessed 60 bombings of African American homes, businesses, and
churches, earning the city the nickname "Bombingham."
Shuttlesworth encouraged the SCLC to come to Birmingham. By early
1963, King and his colleagues decided that the intransigence of Birmingham's
segregationist power structure, and the strength of its indigenous civil rights
movement, created the necessary tension for a campaign that could capture the
Nation's -- and the Kennedy Administration's -- attention, and pressure city
leaders to desegregate. In the words of King,
"As Birmingham goes, so goes the South."
The
plan of the Birmingham campaign was to attack Birmingham's segregated business
practices during the busy and lucrative Easter shopping season through
nonviolent direct action, including boycotts, marches, and sit-ins. On April 3,
1963, Shuttlesworth distributed a
pamphlet entitled "Birmingham Manifesto" to announce the campaign to
the press and encourage others to join the cause. Sit-ins at downtown stores
began on April 3, as did nightly mass meetings. The first march of the campaign
was on April 6, 1963. Participants gathered in the courtyard of the Gaston Motel and started to march
toward City Hall, but the police department under the command of Commissioner of Public Safety T. Eugene
"Bull" Connor stopped them within three blocks, arrested them,
and sent them to jail. The next day, Birmingham police, assisted by their
canine corps, again quickly stopped the march from St. Paul United Methodist
Church toward City Hall, containing the protesters in Kelly Ingram Park.
Over
the next few days, as the possibility of violence increased, some local African
American leaders, including A.G. Gaston,
questioned Project C. In response, King created
a 25-person advisory committee to allow discussion of the leaders' different
viewpoints. The advisory committee met daily at the Gaston Motel and reviewed
each day's plan.
 |
| Martin Luther King "Letter from a Brimingham Jail" |
 |
| Map - the Civil War Institue is on 6th Ave between 16th & 17th the AG Gaston Motel is on 17th St between 5th & 6th |
 |
| Kelly Ingram Park sculpture |
 |
| "Bloody Sunday" |
 |
| Kelly Ingram Park sculpturen |
The marches and demonstrations continued. Fearing civil nrest and irreparable damage to the city's reputation, on May 8 the Birmingham business community and local leaders agreed to release the peaceful protesters, integrate lunch counters, and begin to hire African Americans. On May 10, 1963, the Gaston Motel served as the site to announce this compromise between local white leaders and civil rights advocates. The motel was bombed around midnight. The bomb blasted a door-sized hole into the reception area below King's second story suite and damaged the water main and electrical lines. King was not in Birmingham at the time. His brother, A.D. King, whose own home in Birmingham had been bombed earlier in the day, worked to calm outraged African Americans and avoid an escalation of violence.
Despite
the negotiated peace, African Americans in Birmingham continued to face hostile
resistance to integration. That fall, Governor
Wallace, in violation of a Federal court order, directed State troopers to
prevent desegregation of Alabama public schools. When a Federal court issued
injunctions against the troopers, the Governor called out the National Guard.
To counter that action, President John
F. Kennedy federalized and withdrew the National Guard, thereby allowing
desegregation. In response, on September 15, 1963, white supremacists (KKK) planted a
bomb at the Sixteenth Street Baptist
Church. Addie Mae Collins, Carole Robertson, and Cynthia Wesley, all of
whom were 14, and Denise McNair, 11, were killed. The explosion injured 22
others and left significant damage to the church. King traveled to Birmingham to deliver the eulogy for the little
girls. This act of domestic terrorism again shocked the conscience of the
Nation and the world.
Public
outrage over the events in Birmingham produced political pressure that helped
to ensure passage of the Civil Rights
Act of 1964, which President Lyndon
Johnson signed into law on July 2,
1964. Later that year, the U.S. Supreme Court affirmed the
constitutionality of the public accommodation provisions (Title II) of the Act.
Several Southern politicians announced that laws must be respected, and across
the South outward signs of segregation began to disappear.
Partially as a result of the Federal legislation outlawing discrimination in public accommodations, business at the Gaston Motel suffered. African Americans had more choices in motels and dining. When King returned to Birmingham for an SCLC conference in 1964, he and three dozen colleagues checked into the Parliament House, then considered Birmingham's finest hotel. A.G. Gaston modernized and expanded his motel in 1968, adding a large supper club and other amenities, but business continued to fall through the 1970s. In 1982, Gaston announced that the motel would be converted into housing for the elderly and handicapped. The use of the property for this purpose ceased in 1996, and the former Gaston Motel has sat vacant ever since.
 |
| Civil Rights Institute entrance |
Birmingham Civil Rights Institute – a not for profit agency that has been in existence
for 26 years . . . . . the museum is a good place to visit – I spent 2 hours
there . . . . .
16th Street Baptist Church – a site
associated with the Civil Rights National Monument
 |
| Gavin Hall - Fort Benning GA |
Gavin Hall, Fort Benning, GA – run by IHG Army Hotels – the new and much larger Abrams Hall is now home to soldiers attending schools at Fort Benning.
 |
| Abrams Hall - Fort Benning, GA |
WEDNESDAY March 28, 2018
WEATHER: 54 at 0645 – Fort Benning, G - 80’s in Florida
SUNRISE: 0733 EDT Fort Benning, GA Sunset: 1944 EDT Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Fort Benning,
GA to Orlando, FL
 |
| HGVC - SeaWorld sign at entrance |
Hilton Seaworld – Orlando, FL – room wasn’t ready until 4 pm . . . located in the Devonshire
House – dinner at
nearest Applebee’s was mediocre – something about the Orlando area Applebee’s –
they just don’t seem to make the grade
THURSDAY March 29, 2018
WEATHER: 54 at 0645 – Fort Benning,
G - 80’s in Florida
SUNRISE: 0717 Sunset:
1942 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: HGVC Seaworld
to Parc du Soleil to Starling Chevrolet to Airport to HGVC Seworld to Disney Springs to HGVC
 |
| What kind of whiskey do you serve in Irish Coffee? Irish, of course |
Attended a
presentation by HGVC – obtained 1 $100 AMEX Gift Card and a $100 voucher for a
Hampton Inn (that will help on that trip back home).
 |
| Raglan Road Entertainment |
Yesterday I
noticed a humming from the front end of the car. I thought it may tbe the splash guard that
was hanging from the front, underneath about to fall off: Stopped by Starling
Chevrolet to ask if they
could remove and replace the guard. The
part will cost 386.43 plus installation.
In stock locally but not immediately in the shop. labor……………………… they were most friendly – removed the guard at
no charge – Starling Chevrolet is tied for the BEST CHEVROLET DEALER in the USA – great Customer
Service. However, removal did not cause
the sound to disappear. Possibly, the
lug nuts on the tires need to be tightened . . . . Oil Change indicator is at
18% - added one quart of oil when I returned to HGVC SeaWorld.
Stopped by the Lake
Buena Vista Golf Course;s Chips & Slices for a beverage – took the boat
to Disney Springs.fish and chips at Raglan Road – my most favorite eating
establishment at Disney Springs
FRIDAY March 30, 2018
WEATHER: 68 at 5 am – clear – high of 87
– began to cloud up at 3 pm and a brief shower at 7 pm
SUNRISE: 0716 Sunset:
1942 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: HGVC SeaWorld to SeaWorld to HGVC SeaWorld; the shuttle ride there was less
than 15 minutes – the ride back took 45 minutes – it would have been quicker to
walk – because of stops and pickups.
 |
| SeaWorld - Orlando |
 |
| Entrance to Manta |
 |
| This is the line for MAKO the highest, longest coaster in Florida |
SEAWORLD – took a free shuttle from HGVC to SeaWorld.
A short ride – arrived about 0910. The coasters had short lines – rode
all 3 coasters, Manta, Kraken Unleashed and Mako; Antarctica-Empire of
the Penguin; saw the Sea Lion
& Otter Show
and Shark
Encounter all before
noon. Lunch at Spice Hill. Then the Stingray Lagoon and
TurtleTrek before I
decided that I’d head back at 4 pm.
SATURDAY March 31, 2018
WEATHER: 70 at 5 am – cloudy - dropped to mid-high 60’s with wind – cool
today
SUNRISE: 0715 Sunset:
1943 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: HGVC – some
went to GatorLand
 |
| Happy Easter |
WEATHER: 63 at 6 am – overcast – cleared
up by 10 am. Heavy rain at 1700 for
about 45 minutes. SUNRISE: 0714 Sunset:
1943 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: HGVC – Our
Lady Queen of the Universe – Tampa – HGVC
Traffic from Orlando to Tampa/St/.
Petersburg was accordion
like – taking 2 ¼ hours to travel about 90 miles. The return trip was much better taking 1 ½
hours.
HAPPY EASTER
APRIL FOOL
Went for a walk,
around the block, this morning (0645) – 5 ½ miles and 1 ½ hours later I
returned.
Mass at Our Lady Queen of the Universe was ultra-full – they
even held Mass outside as well as in the church. Unable to park in the parking lot.
 |
| Tropicana Field - 20 year Anniversary - air conditioned - domed |
 |
| Tropicana Field - entrance |
TROPICANA FIELD Tampa Bay Rays lost to the Boston Red Sox 1 to 2. An interesting field – completely enclosed – Air Conditioned. I didn’t have to worry about sunscreen of sunglasses.
Dinner at BAHAMA BREEZE on International Drive. After the rain stopped – good food – good entertainment..
MONDAY April 2, 2018
WEATHER: 67 at 0745 – clear
- high in the mid-80’s – clouded up around 1700 – rained for about 20
minutes at 1930.
SUNRISE: 0713 Sunset:
1944 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: HGVC –
STARLING CHEVROLET to HGVC to Shades of Green (Oak Trail
Course) to Lake Buena Vista GC to HFVC in a rental car.
Another walk
around the block – it was warmer and more humid this morning.
One person can make the difference – Starling Chevrolet goes from one of the best to “just like all the rest” . . . . . I called Starling to make an appointment for an
oil change and have a technician consider the noise that is coming from my
Malibu as it accelerates. The
‘receptionist’ indicated that she was the service department and that I
couldn’t have an appointment until Saturday.
However, if I brought it in a technician would be able to look at it –
didn’t make sense.
The Service
Advisor (the second one I spoke to) last week Thursday knew customer service –
this time I ended with Alphonso – the first Service Advisor I spoke with last week. He remembered me and knew that the other
Service Advisor solved my problem.
Well – I left
the car there and wanted it completed by Wednesday . . . I called at 1700 and
asked to speak to Alphonso - the “receptionist’ service
department put me on hold and said he was unavailable - took a message and that he’d call me
back. He didn’t return call this
afternoon to give me an update like he promised . . . and of course I didn’t
get a phone call at all this evening.
Played a round of Foot Golf at Oak Trail GC –
Disney’s Shades of Green. The Oak Trail measures in at 2,438 yards over a par for the
course of 69 with a challenging selection of par 3’s, 4’s and 5’s. Traditional
golf is played to the Blue pin flags
at the Oak Trail GC while FootGolf is identified by its official color of Orange. There
are no forced carries over any waterways on any of the 18 holes, however due to
the rolling nature of the course the ball tends to roll to the sides if not
placed correctly. It’s not that easy - -
- scored the same here as in a regular round of golf. Lots of bogies – but fun
and a walk in the sun. Nine holes is
more than enough. Price is regularly
$20 per round with a given soccer ball – we got a special of $10.
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| The FootGolf green is on the left by the orange flag The regular hole is on the right by the blue flag |
Drove to Lake Buena
Vista GC for an after round beverage.
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| Only played 15 holes of FootGolf there were supposed to be nets by the water hazards. Not! |
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| The Tee |
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| I'm sure the blown sole on the right side of the shoe affected my game |
TUESDAY April 3, 2018
WEATHER: high in the mid- 80’s
SUNRISE: 0712 Sunset:
1944 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: HGVC – Busch
Gardens - HGVC
BUSCH GARDENS,
Tampa, Fl -
I’ve been to Busch Gardens several times but really can’t remember when the last time was – There
are seven coasters. The park has an African
Theme. Spent 7 hours in the park and saw
most of it to include five of the seven coasters, the Serengeti Train Ride, an
plenty of walking to see two aviaries, elephants, alligators, penguins, sloths,
lions, tigers, giraffes, hippos, gorillas, rhinos, zebras, kangaroos and the
Do-Wop Review, Passed on the River
Rapids, Flumes, the reptile house and a Sesame Street themed kiddie-land.
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| Cobra's Curse get to the top by elevator a spin coaster and it goes reverse |
 |
| Shreika - a dive coaster |
 |
| Serengeti Plain from the train |
 |
| Busch Gardens Poster for the train Ride |
 |
| Busch Gardens Alligators |
WEDNESDAY April 4, 2018
WEATHER: 66 at 0645 – cloudy to mostly sunny – high in the mid- 80’s
SUNRISE: 0710 Sunset:
1945 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: HGVC – Busch
Gardens - HGVC
STARLING CHEVROLET – redeemed – kind of – I called at 0905 and asked to speak to Alphonso – the receptionist/service
department – had me leave a message – at 1022 the call was returned indicating
that he should have an answer from the technician in 1 to 11/2 hours (indicating
to me that they had not looked at it yet – wondering if they would have - if I wouldn’t
have called) I received a call around noon indicating that it was a wheel
bearing and that it should be ready by 1830.
I got a call at 1700 saying that the car was ready – of course I was
still at Busch Gardens. I picked up the car today and with
an oil change . Amazing t- since there
was no time for an oil change until Saturday.
Some went to
Cocoa Beach today . . . . . .
Dinner at Landry’s
 |
| The Ice Age National Scenic Trail the Yellow Blaze marks the trail |
WEATHER: started out sunny by 0900 it was
cloudy and didn’t get much over the low 40’s
SUNRISE: 0612 SUNSET:
0731
TRAVEL: Blue Harbor Resort, Sheboygan, WI; bus ride to Parnell Segment
Blue Harbor Resort: nice
facility – a complex built along the lakeshore where there used to be coal
piles . . . . .rooms are big (long but narrow) but somehow appear empty – small
bath. Conference facilities and food are
above average. Great views of Lake
Michigan.
 |
| Steps to the Parnell Esker Butler Lake |
2018 Annual Conference & Membership Meeting
Schedule:
 |
| Parnell Esker Segment the trail was muddy and snow covered in many places |
8 am – 2
pm: CHOSE YOUR OWN ADENTURE
HIKE Parnell
Segment about 7 miles –
a traverse of the Parnell Esker and a collection of kames. - the bus left us off on
CTH F just east of Dundee – south of Butler Lake.
I have walked this part of the trail as a Boy Scout – probably 8th
grade October 1961. I was one of the 1st
500 to walk the trail, from Mauthe Lake to the Greenbush
Group Camp area (about 18
½ miles). It was called the Glacial
Trail. Those 1st 500 were considered ’trail blazers’ - it was the official
opening day of the trail.
Geology – Parnell Esker Segment
The trail climbs
the Parnell Esker at the Butler Lake parking lot. The IAT follows the
crest of the Parnell Esker along the west side of Butler Lake.
Several breaks in the eskers indicated areas where there were no sand
and gravel deposit in the esker tube. Dundee
Mountain is a large moulin
kame about a mile
west of the IAT.
 |
| Parnell Esker Segment - Butler Lake - How An Esker Forms |
Strange but
Sheboygan’s tornado sirens went off around 1:30 pm
3 pm - 4:15
pm: CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Walking Home Ground: Robert Root shared his book, “Walking Home Ground” – a mix of memoir,
travel writing and environmental history
4:15 pm – 5:30
pm: SOCIAL HOUR – VENDORS – SILENT
AUCTION
5:30 pm – 6:45
pm: BUFFET DINNER – chicken, mashed
potatoes, green beans, roll, - overall a good dinner. Sat at a table with Dave Mickelson and wife, a gentlemen from up north and a IATA staffer.
7 pm – 8:45
pm: TRAIL MIX CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Hiking in Utah
 |
| Parnell Segment - Butler Lake How a Kettle forms |
Geology of the Ice Age Trail in Eastern Wisconsin:
Dave Mickelson, Professor Emeritus – UW Dept of Geoscience, presented
the Ice Age history of
eastern Wisconsin. A great lecture with
emphasis on the the Wisconsonian Glacier and its relation to the Ice
Age Trail. I purchased Mickelson’s “Geology of the Ice Age National Scenic
Trail.”
FRIDAY April 13, 2018
 |
| IAT North End of the La Budde Creek Segment |
WINTER STORM WATCH
WINTER STORM XANTO
SUNRISE: 0605 SUNSET:
1932
Winter Storm Xanto
TRAVEL: Blue Harbor Resort, Sheboygan, WI; bus ride to LaBudde
Segment
ICE AGE TRAIL ALLIANCE
2018 Annual Conference & Membership Meeting
Schedule:
7am – 7:45 am:
Breakfast Buffet/Check-in Registration/Coffee
 |
| IAT hiking the La Budde Creek Segment |
 |
| IAT end of the La Budde Creek Segment |
Geology – La Budde Creek Segment
This segment
parallels the east side of the Northern Kettle Moraine.
High relief hummocky topography lies to the west and smooth pitted
outwash and till surfaces lie to the east.
The northern trailhead is in the LaBudde Valley and the creek is an underfit
stream. The valley was cut by meltwater
flowing from the NE to the SW as the ice sheet retreated from the Kettle
Moraine
 |
| Blue Harbor Resort Parking Lot just returned from the La Budde Segment Hike |
2 pm – 2:15
pm: SNACK
2:15 pm – 4:00
pm: ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING – a budget
of 1.5 million as a non-profit with an endowment and reserve of about 50k. Paid staff – not sure about the Board of
Directors. Election and with over 300
attendees there was discussion about location for future conferences – limited
choices - in venue – but there are some
who just don’t seem to or want to understand.
Smaller is better. Made me feel
like an instruder.
4:15 pm – 5:15
pm: BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING – did not
attend
5 pm – 6:30
pm: SOCIAL HOUR – VENDORS – SILENT
AUCTION
6:30 pm – 8
pm: BUFFET DINNER – beef chunks in
gravy, potatoes, salad, corn, dessert
8 pm – 9:15
pm: KEYNOTE: THAT TREE-AN UNINTENDED
ADVENTURE
Mark Hirsch told
a story of how he, while recovering from a near fatal car accident, was
encouraged by a friend to use his iPhone like a camera. This inspired him to embark on a unique
adventure of making a photo-a-day of a lone bur oak tree in a Wisconsin cornfield. He used face book to post his story. Eventually picked up as a feature on by CNBC
and another network. As a
photojournalist he has a book of his picture ‘s
published. Not a bad
presentation. For Hirsch, a journey of
self-discovery and enlightenment.
SATURDAY April 14, 2018
WEATHER: 34 at 0600, raining, windy –
feels like 11 -forecast of wintry mix – gusts of 50 mph waves on Lake Michigan
over 10 feet – not a great day for much of anything outdoors – of course there
are those . . . . . .
SUNRISE: 0609 SUNSET:
1933
Winter Storm Xanto
TRAVEL: Blue Harbor Resort, Sheboygan, WI
ICE AGE TRAIL ALLIANCE
2018 Annual Conference & Membership Meeting
Schedule:
7am – 7:45 am:
Breakfast Buffet/Check-in Registration/Coffee
10 am – 4:15 pm
BACKPACKING TRACK (at an added cost of
$50 includes lunch)
Can’t understand
why they charged an extra $50 for this . . . . . a donation???? Or to cover the expenses of the REI Reps????
– didn’t ask . . . .
10 am – 11 am: TRIP
PLANNNG, LOGISTICS & NAVIGATION
A review of IATA
website and app
11:15 am – 12:15
pm: GEAR & PACKING (including a pack
shakedown)
Pack shakedowns
depended on which staff member was advising the group
12:15 am – 1:15
pm: BUFFET LUNCH – Italian flavors
1:30 pm – 2:45
pm: MEAL PLANNING & LEAVE NO TRACE
PRINCIPLES
Several days to
family weekend to thru hiker
3 pm – 4:15 pm: HIKER’S FORUM-WISDOM FROM THE TRAIL
Hiker’s Jeopardy
4:15 pm – 5:15
pm: SOCIAL HOUR
5:15 pm – 9 pm: AWARDS BANQUET & CELEBRATION -Dinner with
2 Thousand Miler couples
Amazing
Volunteers . . . .
NPS recognition
of 100, 500, 1000, 2000, 4000 hours of service
An Eagle Scout received NPS Local, Regional
and National Recognition with the Hertzog Award for his work on ITA near Bald Bluff
Other IATA
Recognition Awards, Public Partner/Friend of the Trail, Steward of the Year, Thousand Milers, “In the Mud,”
Spirit Stick
After dinner met
Andy – Coordinator of the Walworth/Rock County Chapter.
He introduced me to 5 other members.
SUNDAY April 15, 2018
WEATHER: 28 at 0700, snow on the ground, more
expected; ice underneath the snow – parts of Wisconsin got 12-18” of snow. . .
. . .
SUNRISE: 0608 SUNSET: 1934
WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT
Winter Storm Xanto – blizzard in the north, tornadoes, and
rain all the way to Florida
TRAVEL: Blue Harbor Resort, Sheboygan, WI to home
SUNDAY
April 22 – FRIDAY April 27, 2018
WEATHER: RAIN - RAIN -
RAIN –RAIN – RAIN GREAT WEATHER for GOLF
CART
PATH ONLY FOR 5 DAYS
SUNDAY – 8 hour drive for a 1030 tee time at Paris
Landing State Park, KY - No rain until
we got to southern IL – then it never let up.
The 14 of us planned to play 18 for score and a 9 hole scramble. It was pouring. The rain didn’t let up all day – 3 didn’t
even go out – 8 decided 9 holes was enough and 3 endured 18 holes of misery and
threw out the scores for the second 9 holes..
MONDAY – Paris
Landing State Park – intermittent
rain all day
TUESDAY – Miller
Memorial Golf Course, home course to
Murray State University, KY. Of
course it rained and the fairways were all bermuda grass – still brown and mud – hard to find any green
grass. The bright point was dinner at a place called
The Keg in Murray, KY. Oh, did I say we had intermittent
rain all day
WEDNESDAY - Paris
Landing State Park – intermittent
rain all day
THURSDAY – Paris
Landing State Park - intermittent
rain all day
FRIDAY – An 8
hour drive home
Of course we
were tired but we all had fun – hard to beat $436 each for 5 days of room and
unlimited golf.
ICE AGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL
A MAMMOTH WALK
A
mere 15,000 years ago during the Ice Age, much of North
America lay under a huge glacier. Mammoths, saber tooth cats and cave lions
roamed the earth! Some of the best evidence of this glacier is found in
Wisconsin such as the state’s many lakes, river valleys, gently rolling hills,
and ridges. The nearly 1,200 mile Ice Age
National Scenic Trail,
established in 1980, traces the glacier's edge.
The
Ice Age Trail began with the idea of
an Ice Age Glacier National Forest Park
to be established along the entire length of the moraines marking the edge of
the last glacier in Wisconsin. This original concept eventually led to the
creation of the nine unit Ice Age
National Scientific Reserve through Federal legislation in 1964 and 1970.
The reserve units, administered by the Wisconsin
Department of Natural Resources, were created to protect, preserve, and
interpret the outstanding examples of glaciation in Wisconsin.
Though
work on the trail itself was begun by volunteers in the 1950's, it was not
designated a National Scenic Trail
until 1980. Today, the Ice Age Trail
links together six of the nine units of the reserve.
The
Ice Age National Scenic Trail is not your
'typical' park. Like the Appalachian Trail, the trail is primarily built and
maintained by Volunteers. When
completed, the trail will be more than 1,200 miles long and cross the state of
Wisconsin north to south and east to west. The trail itself is located on lands
managed by many partners, other agencies and organizations, municipalities and
individuals.
Currently, more than half of the trail is complete and open to the public. These completed sections are connected by lightly traveled roads. The Ice Age Trail Alliance, a non-profit partner, maintains an on-line map of the trail along with information about trail conditions and a searchable Calendar of Events.
The trail changes with every season and is a great way to explore a great state
Currently, more than half of the trail is complete and open to the public. These completed sections are connected by lightly traveled roads. The Ice Age Trail Alliance, a non-profit partner, maintains an on-line map of the trail along with information about trail conditions and a searchable Calendar of Events.
The trail changes with every season and is a great way to explore a great state
Why? Because I want to see parts of the state that
most people don’t ever get to see . . . and I’ve always had an interest in the
geologic features left by the Wisconsin Glacier.
This
is an opportunity to learn more about the geology and the beauty of the state.
It’s been said “There are stories in the land.”
There
is no need to “thru-hike” this trail; unnecessary to back-pack. The Ice Age Trail Alliance recognizes anyone
who has hiked the entire trail and completes an application as a “Thousand
Miler.”
If
you follow my adventure you’ll probably
learn something about the geography and geology of Wisconsin – I plan to borrow
liberally from IATA publications and “Geology of the Ice Age National Scenic
Trail” by Mickelson et al..
FRIDAY May 4, 2018
WEATHER: 62 at 0555 cloudy, intermmitant showers-drizzle until 1100
SUNRISE: 0542 SUNSET:
1957
TRAVEL: START – SCUPPERNONG
southern
terminus Parking on STH 67
END
– LAPHAM PEAK State Park, Tower Parking Area
ICE AGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL
SCUPPERNONG 5.6
miles
Connecting
Route 1.1
miles
WATERVILLE (2.7 IAT, 1.2 CR) 3.9 miles
LAPHAM PEAK (4.7 of 7.8 miles) 4.7 miles
Total
Today 15.3 miles TOTAL 25.8 miles
 |
| Scuppernong Segment - trail |
 |
| Southern End Scuppernong STH 67 parking |
 |
| Scuppernong Segment view This was a pleasant walk in the rain |
The SCUPPERNONG Segment crosses hilly terrain through hardwood forests and past many trailside kettles. Early morning walk – it was drizzling and windy at times but the birds were singing. I started with a short sleeve and long sleeve t shirt, after a ½ hour of walking the long sleeve T went into the pack. A pleasant morning walk – only the birds on the trail.
 |
| The Connecting Route along CTH C between the Sucppernong & Waterville Segments |
 |
| Southern end of the Waterville Segment on CTH D |
 |
| Waterville Segment |
 |
| Lapham Peak Segment - sign on Hwy18 |
 |
| Lapham Peak Glacial Drumlin bike trail |
 |
| Lapham Peak Segment much of the trail was muddy |
Starting from the south the LAPHAM PEAK Segment follows the Glacial Drumlin bike trail. After crossing STH 18 the hilly LAPHAM PEAK Segment winds through woods and prairie restoration sites and includes views from the Lapham Peak Observation Tower . A biker traveling west passed me and I finally met met 3 guys walking the trail. At least 3 grade school groups were in the vicinity of the Lapham Peak Observation Tower for a day outing..
After
reaching the Lapham Peak Tower (completing 4.7
miles of the segment), I decided to end the days hike. My right ankle was hurting and my pace had
slowed to less than 2 mph. Perhaps, too much, too soon - time for recovery.
Luckily
my brother was available to pick me up at the Tower Parking Lot, I was still
6.4 miles away from my car. A total of
15.3 miles walked today..
 |
| Increase A Lapham |
 |
| Lapham Peak Tower Closed |
WEDNESDAY May 9, 2018
WEATHER: 63 at 0515; heading west I could see a nasty thunderstorm by the time I reached the Town Hall I decided to turn back . . . . the weather beat me in the AM but I decided to walk in the afternoon – started at 1450 temp 73 cloudy with occasional sun peaking through . . . still the rain caught me several times..
SUNRISE: 0536 SUNSET: 2002
TRAVEL: START – EAGLE northern terminus parking – HWY 67 1450
END – STONY RIDGE southern terminus parking - Southern Kettle Moraine HQ
Parking 1610
Based
on the injury Friday May 4, I cut the Blue Spring
Lake Segment
(7.1 miles) out of today’s planned hike of 15.8 miles – and adjusted the hike to a total of 8.7
miles. Drove to the EAGLE
northern terminus and walked south.
Family picked me up at the Southern
Kettle Moraine HQ
parking lot.
ICE AGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL
EAGLE 5.6
miles
STONY RIDGE 3.1
miles
Total
Today
8.7 miles TOTAL 34.5 miles
 |
| Eagle - Hwy 67 Parking |
 |
| Eagle where there wasn't mud it was wet likely for the bed of glacial Lake Scuppernong |
 |
| Eagle - much of the trail was muddy |
 |
| Eagle - Brady's Rocks - an outcop of the Niagara Escarpment dolomite |
The
EAGLE Segment passes through extensive prairie
restoration areas, oak savannas
and wetland areas. It features the 8 ft high outcropping of Brady’s Rocks – a portion of the Niagara Escarpment. The feature was named for Irish Immigrants Michael & Kathleen Brady who settled here in 1855.
and wetland areas. It features the 8 ft high outcropping of Brady’s Rocks – a portion of the Niagara Escarpment. The feature was named for Irish Immigrants Michael & Kathleen Brady who settled here in 1855.
There
are good views of the bed of glacial Lake
Scuppernong
from several points along the trail and remains on it almost to the CTH N
crossing, where it rises into pitted outwash.
.
 |
| Eagle - a view to the east - the bed of glaical Lake Scuppernong - the Kettle Moraine in the distance |
Most
of this flat walk is in the bed of glacial Lake
Scuppernong. The high relief, hummocky, Kettle Moraine lies atop the Niagara
Escarpment
west of Hwy 67.
 |
| Stony Creek - walking atop an esker |
 |
| IAT - Stony Creek along CR Z |
The STONY CREEK Segment winds through a
pine plantation, oak forest and sections of dry prairie and passes the Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit HQ. There is a small natural history museum here
with displays of glacial, Native American, pioneer and natural history. The trail also features a walk along a steep
sided esker with kettles and marshes at the bottom of the slopes.
FRIDAY May 11, 2018
WEATHER: 41 and raining at 5 am; RAINED hard all the way to Manitowoc –
but the temp dropped to 36 - - - decided to do a recon of the routes I planned
to walk this next week – glad I did – could not find a good place to park on
the 25.3 mile Connecting Route between the south end of the Tisch
Mills and north end
of the Kewaunee River Segments.
Started walking
at Noon it was 43 degrees with a wind off the water.- started with 4 layers –
removed the blue windbreaker after the walk thorugh the Industrial Park. Fittingly, it drizzled between 2 and 3 pm.
SUNRISE: 0524 SUNSET:
2007
TRAVEL: Adjusted
the START of rhe Sturgeon Bay Segment from the eastern terminus of the
IAT in Potowatomi
State Park to Otawba Park on Sturgeon Bay
due to a scheduled pick up time of 1500.
START - Otawba Park, Sturgeon Bay
1200
END – CTH H & STH 42 southern
terminus of Sturgeon Bay Segment (Maplewood – Richard’s Pub & Grill) 1520
ICE AGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL
STURGEON BAY Segment (Otamba Park to Maplewood) – 9.0
miles
Total
Today 9.0 miles
TOTAL 43.5 miles
 |
| Sturgeon Bay Segment Sturgeon Bay |
 |
| Sturgeon Bay Segment Otawba Park 1200 |
A fitting start or finish to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail (IAT), the STURGEION BAY Segment offers the three widely varying experience of the overall IAT. Bypassing the forested Pototwatomi State Park , I started with a short hike through the City of Sturgeon Bay and its Industrial Park transitioning to a rail-trail hike along the Ahnapee State Trail.
 |
| Sturgeon Bay Segment Ahnapee State Trail 1236 |
 |
| Sturgeon Bay Segment Ahnapee State Trail Parking 1258 |
After a little confusion crossing Hwy 57 the trail arrives at the trailhead of the Ahnapee State Trail . A wide, hard-packed limestone, multiuse recreational trail that was formerly the Ahnapee & Western Railroad. A level and straight walk –relatively boring – glad it was cold out or this appeared to be a haven for mosquitoes with water on both sides of the trail much of the way. I only saw one biker on this entire segment. The AST traverses the southern end of Maplewood Swamp and passes Stoney Creek Swamp.
 |
| Sturgeon Bay Segment Ahnapee State Trail & Ice Age Trail signage |
 |
| Sturgeon Bay Segment - Ahnapee State Trail Much of the trail is like this - straight - two lanes |
 |
| Sturgeon Bay Segment lowland just off the trail |
 |
| Sturgeon Bay Segment Richard's Bar & Grill End of the Trail Hwy 42 & CTH H |
 |
| Sturgeon Bay Segment Plenty of swamp on both sides of the trail |
SATURDAY May 12, 2018
WEATHER: 40 degrees and sunny at 0600,
started walking from Algoma at 0940 – it was 46 degrees – started with 3 layers
– quickly went to 4 because of the wind – then in ½ mile back to 3. The day went from sunny to partly sunny to
mostly cloudy with a high of 53 – eventually went to 2 layers..
SUNRISE: 0523 SUNSET:
2008
TRAVEL: Started out from the Rushes, left my car in Kewaunee
and was dropped
off in Algoma.
START - Ahnapee
Trail Parking (CTH S) Birch
St E of Perry St, Algoma - south end of
the Forestville Segment - 0940
END – Ahnapee Trail Parking Miller & Dodge St,
Kewaunee - 1520
ICE AGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL
Connecting Route (Algoma to Kewaunee) - 14.4 miles
Total
Today 14.4 miles
TOTAL 57.2 miles
I drove this route
on Friday – boring . . . . . .I plan on
six hours of drudgery.
Well, it wasn’t all
drudgery - very peaceful and quiet along
back roads with little or no traffic on them.
My only regret was wearing my Redwings when the New
Balance running shoes would
have been more comfortable walking on the road surface. Pictures will do better here than words.. Developed a small blister on my left heel.
 |
| CR Algoma-Kewaunee A nice board-walk along Laek Michigan in Algoma 1018 |
 |
| CR Algoma-Kewaunee Start of thee hike 0940 |
 |
| CR Algoma-Kewaunee Hwy 42 entering downtown from the south |
 |
| CR Algoma-Kewaunee Longfelllow Rd 1125 |
 |
| CR Algoma-Kewaunee Lakeshore Dr |
 |
| CR Algoma-Kewaunee Longfelllow Rd & Hwy 42 1211 |
 |
| CR Algoma-Kewaunee - Lighthouse Bluff along Lakeshore Dr |
 |
| CR Algoma-Kewaunee - along Lakeshore Dr |
 |
| CR Algoma-Kewaunee |
 |
| CR Algoma-Kewaunee Miller Time |
 |
| CR Algoma-Kewaunee End of the Trail Grandfather Time |
 |
| CR Algoma-Kewaunee Real Time & Temp |
SUNDAY May 13, 2018
WEATHER: 46 at 0600 sunny; 59 by 1030 and
in the 60’s afternoon
SUNRISE: 0521 SUNSET:
2009
 |
| Located near Bailey's Harbor |
START – Otawba Park on the Sturgeon
Bay Segment
END – Eastern
Terminus of the Ice
Age Trail in
Potowatomi State Park
Potowatomi State Park
1030 Mass at Corpus
Christi Church in Sturgeon
Bay - there are lots of churches up here - seems
the few priests travel a lot -with masses in different churches at 4, 5, 6, and
7 on Saturdays and ever hour on the hour from 7 am to 1 pm on Sunday to include
a few masses at 5 and 6 pm. Lots of
choices . . .
About 250 people in
church, a younger congregation, most
between their 20’s and 50’s – a priest assisted by a deacon and a solo
guitar. The girl playing really had a
very good voice – folksy – excellent for solo.
Today is the 7th Sunday of the Easter Season but deemed to be the Feast of the Ascension – can’t tell you about the
readings and gospel – obscure. Perhaps that’s why the homily quickly
transitioned from about the disciples to about being being a disciple – it’s also Mother’s
Day – so especially
mom’s – you can be a disciple by caring . . . . . .loving . . . . nurturing . .
. . . . do what mom’s do for all you meet.
ICE AGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL
STURGEON BAY Segment (Otumba Park to Potowatomi SP) – 4.7 miles
Total
Today 4.7 miles
TOTAL 61.9 miles
STURGEON BAY (Otawba Park to the Eastern Terminus) 4.7 miles
Through the city’s Otawba and Bay View
Park the trail
highlights the Sturgeon Bay Canal. Since 1882 Great Lakes
freighters have bypassed goring around the tip of Door County (Death’s Door)
and traveled from Green Bay to Lake Michigan.
 |
| Potowatomi SP IAT Eastern Terminus - Tower Closed Permanently |
 |
| IAT Sturgeon Bay Segment Niagara Escarpment Dolomite bedrock |
 |
| IAT Sturgeon Bay Segment - Eastern Terminus |
 |
| IAT Sturgeon Bay Segment Potowatomi State Park |
Potawatomi State Park is named after the Native Americans who inhabited Green Bay’s shores, it means “keepers of the fire,” a reference to the Council of the Three Fires, a Potawatomi alliance with the Ojibwe and Ottawa. Bedrock dolomite outcrops of the Niagara Escarpment can be found throughout the area. The cliffs that tower above the current lake level are not only the Niagara Escarpment but also wave cut cliffs produced during higher levels of the lake.
The rock beneath is
glacier-scoured dolomite with only a thin
layer of till for cover. valleys cut across
the Door County peninsula – these valleys served as outlets for glacial Lake
Oshkosh, which occupied
the Green Bay-Lake Winnebago basins to drain into Lake Michigan.
There were a number
of walkers and bikers on portions of the trail in Potowatami
State Park.
The area in Sturgeon Bay was under construction and I found it easy but unsure of where I should be walking.
 |
| Niagara Escarpment dolomite formation - reminiscent of Bailey's Rocks in the Eagle Segment of the IAT |
 |
| Map of the IAT's Sturgeon Bay Segment north of the city of Sturgeon Bay |
 |
| Route of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail |
Along the way, in the park – a woman asked if I was taking a “long walk.” I replied “Yes.” Which prompted the question, ‘What trail are you walking?’ I replied, “The Ice Age Trail.” - - - - she was sitting at a table with her husband and the children were playing, tossing stones in the lake – it appears this lady is an aspiring “1000 miler wannabe” - on the IATA face book page. I told her I do not follow face book but I do have a blog. She’s from Green Bay and spent several years in Alaska – I didn’t ask her name – I wish her success in her quest.
MONDAY May 14, 2018
WEATHER: 54 at 6 am cloudy, forecast high
of 70, 40% chance of rain
SUNRISE: 0520 SUNSET:
2010
TRAVEL: Left the Rushes about 8 am. Left my car in Kewaunee at the Grandfather
Clock on Hwy 42. I was driven by a
friend to the Ahnapee Trail Parking just east of CTH A.
I started walking south and east.
.
END - Kewaunee
River Segment Ahnapee
Trail Parking, Kewaunee
Miller & Dodge Streets, by the Grandfather
Clock
START – Kewaunee
River Segment Ahnapee
Trail Parking - Sunset Rd
Parking east of Casco Junction
ICE AGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL
KEWAUNEE RIVER Segment - 12.5 miles
Total
Today 12.5 miles
TOTAL 74.4 miles
 |
| Kewaunee Trailhead Ahnapee State Trail - Sunset Rd Start 0955 |
 |
| Kewaunee level farily open |
 |
| Kewaunee 1st sign at a CTH C crossing |
 |
| Kewaunee wetland |
 |
| Kewaunee tunnel |
at trailhead in Kewaunee – I wondered if there is someone walking the trail and then biking back.
The Kewaunee
River Segment follows the Ahnapee
State Trail, a crushed limestone
multi-use trail.
The Ahnapee
& Western Railroad served major
industries in Algoma, Sturgeon Bay and Casco Junction dating back to its origin
in 1892. It connected to Green Bay and
Kewaunee at Casco Junction via the Green Bay & Western Railway. Steam and diesel powered locomotives hauled
lumber, shipbuilding materials, dairy products, petroleum products and other
commodities.
 |
| Kewaunee upland of the river valley |
The roadbed of the A&W follows a broad-wetland and the
channel of the Kewaunee River.
This valley was an outlet for glacial Lake Oshkosh, whenever the retreating Grren
Bay Lobe allowed drainage
into the valley through the channels north of Luxemborg.
The trail continues
on a broad floodplain by till-covered upland.
It climbs onto a low terrace near the inland extent of the Nipissing
high stand.
After about an
hour’s walk I passed a walker resting on a bench near the Kewaunee River.
We exchanged hellos, but I didn’t stop to talk – I should have asked if that was his bike at the Sunset
Rd trailhead. With
about 2 miles left, a biker approached from the rear . . . . it was the guy on
the bench – he slowed down – we started a conversation and he walked his bike
with me along the trail for 15 minutes.
He was from Green Bay, plans to walk the IAT and his name is Jim. It appears he’s walked the Appalachian
Trail – we had a
pleasant conversation. He was the only
person I met on the trial and the second in two days who plans to walk the
entire IAT.
Went to a Wine & Cheese Meet & Greet at the Rushes – enjoyable.
 |
| Kewaunee Segment - a Y in the trail - choices |
 |
| Kewaunee - End of the trail The Grandfather Clock 1425 |
 |
| Kewaunee - Waterfront Bar & GrillMiller Time |
Went to a Wine & Cheese Meet & Greet at the Rushes – enjoyable.
TUESDAY May 15, 2018
WEATHER: 54 at 0600, mostly cloudy – appears to have
rained overnight, forecast high in the low 60’s
SUNRISE: 0519 SUNSET:
2012
TRAVEL:
START - Ahnapee
Trail Parking (CTH S) Birch
St E of Perry St, Algoma 1010
END – CTH H & STH 42 northern
terminus of the Forestville Segment/ southern terminus of Sturgeon
Bay Segment (Maplewood –
Richard’s Pub & Grill 1335
ICE AGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL
FORESTVILLE Segment - 9.8
miles 3.4
hrs on the trail
Total
Today 9.8 miles
TOTAL 84.2 miles
 |
| Forestville |
 |
| Forestville lowaland along the trail |
 |
| Forestville a start through Cedar & Birch |
 |
| A map for the Ahnapee State Trail - shows a connecting route of the AST between Algoama and Kewaunee of 9.8 miles on the AST - The IAT suggested Connecting Route follows the back roads to from Algoma to Kewaunee for 14.4 miles I walked the 14.4 miles on Saturday May 12 - I must have a leaning toward being a purist or I just like longer walks |
I met two people on
the trail walking their dogs – the first was a guy with a friendly chocolate
lab that wanted to lick me – the second was a woman with a .German Shepherd that
wanted to take a bite out of me.
Wildlife – today I
saw squirrels, listened to plenty of birds, ducks, geese and 2 turkeys.
A pleasant hike –
started with 2 layers kept them on all day – a brisk wind. .
 |
| There were a number of signs like this along the trail about the Ahnapeed & Western RR. I saw the old abandoned elevators - I should have taken a picture. Edward Decker was a banker and financier of the railroad.. He eventually lost his forturne through bank failures in Chicago. The signs added to the interesting history of the A&W. |
 |
| Forestville Dam |
West of Forestville the segment passes the Forestville Dam County Park. Just before the dam, I found the trail a bit confusing . . . . . I went down a snowmobile trail and missed the AST – it was less than 100 yeards down the road.
Continuing north the trail passes through an area burned by the Great Peshtigo Fire, the most devastating forest fire in American history. On October 8, 1871, the fire destroyed 1 ¼ million acres and killed more than a thousand people. Today mature hardwood stands erase all signs of the fire the Ahnapee River Valley.
 |
| Forestville - note the rise on the right - I'm no geologist but it may suggest that the trail lies in a lowland - the bed of the glacial Ahnapee River or whatever it may have been called - most likely an outlet for meltwater to Lake Michigan |
 |
| Miller Time at the end of the trail in Maplewood at the Jct of Hwy 42 and CTH H |
 |
| Forestville suggestive of a bedrock outcrop of the Niagara Escarpment |
THURSDAY May 17, 2018
WEATHER: 42 at 0600, partly cloudy,
forecast high in upper 50’s with wind off Lake Michigan
SUNRISE: 0517 SUNSET:
2014
TRAVEL: Skipped
the 25.3 mile Connecting Route between the Kewaunee
River &
Tisch Mills Segments. This can be completed at some future date – don’t
feel like a 25 mile walk is in the cards and there is really no parking area in
between.
START – Nuclear Rd – just east of
CTH B north end of Tisch Mills
END – CTH V and Woodlawn Dr, end
of Mishicot (by the schools)
ICE AGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL
TISCH MILLS Segment - 2.6 miles S F
Connecting Route - 5.8 miles S F
EAST TWIN RIVER Segment - 1.4 miles S F
Connecting Route - 0.7 miles S F
MISHICOT Segment - 2.9 miles S F
Total
Hiking Time 5.0 hrs Total
Today 13.4 miles
TOTAL 97.6 miles
Decided to wear the
Redwings and carry the tan
pack I bought out west. I don’t remember its straps cutting into my
shoulder. Travelled light – wore shorts
- but did take 3 bottles of water and a long sleeve t-shirt.
 |
| Tisch Mills this sign is actully in the Village of Tisch Mills |
 |
| Tisch Mills - moraine along the trail paralleling the East Twin River |
The Tisch Mills Segment goes through a white cedar forest and highlights both Tisch Mills Creek and the East Twin River.
The Tisch
Mills Segment follows the East
Twin River along a moraine
front to the village of Tisch Mills. In the past a braided stream choked with sand and gravel flowed into Lake
Michigan.
 |
| Tisch Mills along the East Twin River the trail was muddy - at times 6" of mud |
 |
| Tisch Mills East Twin River |
 |
| the sign speaks for itself |
 |
| Weber Natural Area is just west of the Village of Tisch Mills |
Finding no more
blazes on my side of the creek and consulting the map, that the trail did cross
water and finding no bridge – I decided I have to get across. It was about an hour into the hike. The river was over the fording rocks . .
. up to the ankle – in some places
deeper . . . well - - - - - I lost my balance fell on my right knee just
short of the far side and scrambled up the bank.
I went into water
well over my boots. When I got to the
other side – recovery was in order. I
found a fallen log – some blazes indicating that this was the trail and emptied
about a quarter cup of water out of my boot.
I had at least 10+ miles to go and my socks were soaked. I didn’t have an extra pair. I trudged on – I had a concern for blisters
developing because of the wet shoes and socks – the bleeding on the knee eventually stopped.
 |
| Tisch Miills - IS this the ford? |
 |
| Tisch Mills - this is Weber's Ford on the Tisch Mills Creek |
Spruce forest once
covered this part of Wisconsin. When the
glacier re-advanced into Wisconsin about 13,400 years ago the climate had
warmed allowing the forest to grow. The
glacier itself killed the forest which is now preserved as the Two
Creeks Buried Forest Unit of the Ice Age
National Scientific Preserve.
 |
| East Twin River map a the north end - start of the trail Hillview Rd |
A short trail, the East Twin River Segment courses through the rivers riparian zone and highlights towering northern white cedars and scenic views of the river.
 |
| East Twin River Start of the trail |
 |
| East Twin River - Cedar Forest It was very windy and the trees were swaying - creaking - I was waiting for one to fall - eerie walk |
 |
| East Twin River |
 |
| East Twin River - at least there was a bridge |
The Mishicot Segment travels through
the village of Mishicot, highlighting the
village Riverwalk and a covered
bridge over the East Twin River.
 |
| Mishicot start of the trail |
 |
| Mischicot Miller Time |
 |
| Mishicot atop what looked like an esker |
FRIDAY May 18, 2018
WEATHER: 42 at 0700 in Baileys Harbor; forecast
high of 62 partly cloudy
SUNRISE: 0516 SUNSET:
2015
TRAVEL: START – Taylor St & Memorial Dr, Manitowoc ,
Aurora Medical Complex
END –southern end of the
Point Beach Segment
Probably as a
result of yesterdays dip in the Tisch Mills Creek I developed a blister on my
right big toe and my Redwings weren’t entirely
dry – so I adjusted considering a less than 15 mile walk in the woods. I just carried the camel-bak and wore my New
Balance running shoes..
ICE AGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL
DUNES Segment - 2.7 miles S
1035 F 1140
TWO RIVERS Segment - 2.8 miles S 1140 F
1240
Total
Hiking Time 2.1 hrs Total Today 5.5 miles
TOTAL 108.5 miles
 |
| Dunes - IAT marker on the grounds of the Aurora Medical Comples |
 |
| Dunes - along the trail |
 |
| Dunes - sign near the Aurora Medical Comples |
The Dunes Segment highlights Woodland Dunes Nature Center and Preserve, an oasis of marshland swamps, sandy meadows, and wooded ridges. In Manitowoc Dunes begins in a garden walk behind the Aurora Medical Center Complex. This segment is almost entirely in the Woodland Dunes State Natural Area. The ridges here also formed as the lake level slowly dropped after the Nipissing high stand. All of this area was under water 6,000 years ago.
 |
| City of Two Rivers - Lake Michigan shoreline |
 |
| City of Two River Segment a walk through the city this is the start at the terminus of the Dunes Segment |
The City of
Two Rivers Segment highlights the
city’s claims to fame – home of the original ice cream sundae and maritime
history at the Historic Roger Street
Fishing Village.
This segment lies
entirely on sandy lake sediment deposited during and after the Nipissing high stand. All this area was under shallow water. There is very little topography except for
the Two Rivers Moraine which is a ridge with a water tower and hospital on it. This moraine lies east of the East
Twin River, which formed
during the maximum extent of the ice advance covering Two
Creeks Forest about 13,400 years
ago. The glacial edge in Lake
Michigan would have had a
near-vertical face over 200 feet high.
The West Twin River acted as an outlet for glacial Lake Oshkosh during the early stages of the
ice retreat.
 |
| City of Two Rivers Segment - The Wreck of the 'Rose Simmons' - the "Christmas Tree Ship" |
WEDNESDAY May 23, 2018
WEATHER: 52 and sunny when I started, 79
and sunny when I finished
SUNRISE: 0517 SUNSET:
2022
TRAVEL: START – Emma Carlin Trails Parking Area,
CTH Z
END – Parked car Hwy 12 parking
area
.
ICE AGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL
BLUE SPRING LAKE Segment - 7.1 miles S 0655 F
1040
BLACKHAWK Segment - 7.0 miles S 1040 F
1450
Total
Hiking Time 8.0 hrs Total Today 14.1 miles
TOTAL 117.2 miles
 |
| Blue Spring Lake Segment - sign is on Young Rd |
 |
| Blue Spring Lake muddy in the beginning |
 |
| Blue Spring Lake Horse Camp |
 |
| Blue Spring Lake 0821 |
These segments are maintained by Walworth/Jefferson County Chapter of the IATA. The trails are fairly well marked and generally easy to follow. Occasionally, a ‘security blaze’ could be in order on some parts to ensure that the hiker is on the right trail..
 |
| Blue Spring Lake - atop an esker |
These segments were
the toughest walks yet – primarily because of the ups and downs – the pace was
slow – similar to hiking in the mountains.
There appeared to be an adequate number of benches for resting – I used
most of them. I drank 4 bottles of
water. I carried the tan backpack, wore
shorts, t-shirt and hat . . . .bees but no mosquitoes or ticks.
 |
| Blue Spring Lake - The Stone Elephant |
The Blue Spring Lake Segment is an up and down walk through the South Kettle Moraine. It features views from the top of Bald Bluff and the Stone Elephant, a large granite erratic.
The Stone
Elephant is a granite
glacial erratic, named by early
settlers because of its color, size and general resemblance to an
elephant. The pinkish grains in the rock
are potassium feldspar. Prairie
Potowatomi visited the rock
and considered it a sacred area.
This segment
provides views of kettles and hummocks...
DRUMLIN – an cigar
shaped hill that forms at the bed of a glacier and parallels the direction of
the ice flow. The look like teardrops or
spoon shaped hills.
ERRATIC – boulders
carried a long distance by glaciers and deposited when the glacier melts. They tend to be smooth and rounded..
ESKER – a long
winding ridge of stream sediment deposited in tunnels beneath a glacier.
HUMMOCKY TERRAIN –
caused by glacial forces building sand and gravel through rivers on the top of
glacial, formation of kettles, eskers, etc.
 |
| Blue Spring Lake - view from Bald Bluf |
KETTLE – a
depression formed when a mass of glacial ice that is buried in the sand,
gravel, or till melts away.
MORAINE – ridges of
glacial debris. They form wherever till
are piled up either on or adjacent to a glacial margin. The Ice Age Trail follows morainal topography
along most its path across Wisconsin.
 |
| Blackhawk Segment - start on Young Rd 1040 |
 |
| Blackhawk - a walk through the pine forest recently cleared of undergrowth |
The Blackhawk
Segment passes Lake
LaGrange, hardwood forests
and the historic Ole Olson Homestead.
After crossing Bluff
Rd, the segment goes
through a section of red, black and jack pine before crossing CTH H.
The Ole
Olson Homestead is on a spur
trail. It was built by an early
Norwegian pioneer. I did not visit the
cabin.
 |
| Blackhawk - Lake LaGrange |
Just about a mile or so before reaching Hwy 12,
the trails passes kettle Lake LaGrange. This area is full of Horse
and Snowmobile Trails.
.
THURSDAY May 24, 2018
WEATHER: 68 at 0730, 85 by 1500, poured at
1600
SUNRISE: 0516 SUNSET:
2023
TRAVEL: START – park on Bluebird Trail at the
terminus of the Arbor Ridge Segment
END – pickup at VFW, Evansville
.
ICE AGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL
Connecting Route (20.8 miles of 33.1 CR - Arbor Ridge-Evansville VFW)
S
0730 F 1500
Total
Hiking Time 7.5 hrs Total Today 20.8 miles
TOTAL 138.0 miles
All road hiking –
CTH A was fairly busy; CTH H was busy (glad it was a short segment)
The remaining roads
had little traffic. It was hot drank all my water 2.5 liters.
 |
| Start of the walk at 0730 |
 |
| Rest Area - CTH H Highway 14 - this was a nice respite |
 |
| The short walk along Highway H was full of traffic |
 |
| Gibbs Lake Rock County Park at 1146 |
- A rest area of sorts on the northeast corner
of CTH H & STH 14, I needed a place to sit down after 3 hours
- Gibbs Lake County Park (Rock County) was a respite
along W. Gibbs Lake Rd
- McDonald’s is on Hwy 14 (about 1/3 mile off
the prescribed route on STH 14 – there is a Landmark Gas Station there – a cold
Gatorade was worth the trip
GO TO THE NEXT POST FOR MORE ADVENTURES ON THE ICE AGE TRAIL -
THURSDAY August 23, 2018
WEATHER: 80’s in New Orleans mostly sunny
TRAVEL: United Airlines MKE (Milwaukee) - ORD (Chicago) – MSY (New Orleans), an uneventful
flight. Shuttle to Sheraton New Orleans
on Canal Street between Camp & Magazine.
This was a deal there was an on line conference rate of $10 round trip.
 |
| Cafe Beignet on Bourbon St in New Oreleans Legends Park |
 |
| Kerry's Irsh Bar |
My 4th
visit to “Big Easy” – about 20 years ago I stayed at
the Hilton next to the
Convention Center – 3 years ago I stayed at Dauphine New Orleans, 415 Dauphine Street, in the French
Quarter just NW - a block
off Bourbon St –I’m at the Sheraton on Canal Street, 2 blocks from Bourbon Street.
A city with a
colorful and deep history, New Orleans was founded in 1718. The city saved the US from the last British
invasion at the Battle of New Orleans, gave birth to jazz music, invented the
poor boy (po boy) and the cocktail.
 |
| 700 block of Bourbon St |
I made a obligatory review of Bourbon Street during the afternoon - stopping at the Hard Rock Café ( Bourbon St) Dos Equiis The New Orleans Musical Legends Park (311 Bourbon St) – lunch of a tuna fish sandwich and Ariba Amber at the adjacent Bourbon Café Beignet with an 3 piece band playing, drums, keyboard, trombone/harmonica; a stop at a bar with two pianos & a drummer – a walk to Jackson Square and back to the hotel with a walk along Decatur with an additional stop at Kerry’s Irish Bar for a glass of Harp.
.
Dinner with a group of 7 at the Red Fish Grill,
FRIDAY August 24, 2018
WEATHER: 80’s in New Orleans mostly sunny
TRAVEL: Charter bus from the Sheraton to English
Turn Country Club and
return.
 |
| English Turn Patio & Clubhouse |
 |
| Abita sponsored the malt beverages |
The Louisiana
National Guard hosted the annual
golf tournament at English Turn Country Club. Their
hospitality and organization rates as the best golf tournament I’ve ever
attended at National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) Conference.
To begin with
this was a real breakfast - - - - omelets with crepes and Three
Olives sponsored
Bloody Mary’s/Screwdrivers – the breakfast was hosted on the club house patio -
eventually I did find coffee for the course in the club house.
Abita Brewing sponsored a variety of local
brews: Purple Haze (a hint of raspberry was very
tasty – not overpowering fruity), Amber, Andygator, The Boot, 30-90, Big Easy IPA and their Abita
Root Beer is
excellent. The tournament chairman came
around in a cart with the LA TAG to say hello to every foursome , thank them
for attending and tell told all to have a good time. There were several carts with free beverages,
and snacks and there were coolers on the tees about every four holes. There was also a special beverage – a mix of
vodka, iced tea and lemonade – ‘swamp tea’
– most refreshing. .
The ‘traditional
lunch’ was not burgers and sausages but rib eye steak sandwiches or just small
rib eye cuts with potato salad and beans and cookies for dessert. – sponsored
by the Louisiana Cattlemen’s Association.
It was a good time.
NEW ORLEANS
 |
| Deaniies Seafood |
Dinner with a group
of 12 (two tables) at Deanie’s Seafood (a block off
Bourbon St at 841 Iberville – Iberville & Dauphine)– reasonably priced – Dixie
Voodoo (a dark beer
served in large ‘boomba’) complimented the stuffed flounder.
Afterward – the
group wandered - I split for a walk on Bourbon Street – scouting restaurants –
and eventually had a glass of Harp at Ryan’s Irish Pub.
SATURDAY August 25, 2018
WEATHER: another sunny day in New Orleans
TRAVEL: chartered bus transportation from the hotels
to the events
 |
| Beads - the colors are correct Grren & Gold - the gold is cheese from Wisconsin - the green yes that looks like weed - from - Colorado |
NATIONAL GUARD ASSOCIATION of the UNITED STATES
The National Guard; “America’s Sword & Shield”
The conference
runs for three days – I don’t attend all the sessions anymore – However,
there are generally more than a fair amount of ‘high profile’ speakers. The exhibition features hundreds of booths –
mostly defense contractors – or those hoping for government contracts. Many sponsor events. Some that you would expect include: AM
General, BAE Systems, Boeing, Danner, Hesco, Lockheed-Martin, Motorola, Northrop-Grumman,
Oakley, Oshkosh Defense, Panasonic, Pratt & Whitney, Raytheon, Rolls-Royce,
Sikorsky, Snap-On, Spacesaver, Tesla, and Wiley-X.
 |
| A Louisian Welcome - with a Zydeco Band - the venue was a theater in the Convention Center |
1215 KEYNOTE ADDRESS: The Honorable James N. Mattis, Secretary of Defense. Mentioned the first US Defense Strategy written in 10 years . . . . this is important because it means that it is the first military plan/guidance the US has had in a decade. Available on line It has three main subject areas:
1.
LETHALITY - Restore
readiness across the force and make the US military a more lethal force
2.
ALLIANCES - Strengthen relationships with
existing allies and make new allies
3.
ACCOUNTABILITY -
Revise and modernize the Department of Defense – basically making it
accountable for every dollar spent.
Conduct a complete audit of DOD (1st in 30 years) to ensure that it is fiscally responsible,
accountable and affordable
He was
encouraging – I heard it - but for many it was just a pass through
when he mentioned that we must maintain a balance on deployments and use of the
Guard and Reserve – so soldiers can remain competitive in their civilian jobs.
1530 SPECIAL ADDRESS
with Q&A: GEN Mark A. Milley, Army Chief of Staff. This is the 4th time I’ve heard him speak
– a man of intelligence, wit and he could be intimidating . . . . . He started
and closed with a reference to General Order 73, written in 1918 – stating that
the US has ONE ARMY – encouraging – not new – but the first time I heard this
was from GEN Eric Shinseki – and look what happened to him as Army Chief of
Staff. The take-aways:
· * Increase the
number of training days for some key units from 39 to 50 or 60. We must get the
message across to employers, citizens that this is about the defense of the US.
·
* Change the PT test – coming in October 2019 – “get ready for it now” – a total of 6 combat task related events to include the 2 mile run – “its not easy’ – “embrace it, love it, want more of it” – concern about combat ready soldiers.
* Change the PT test – coming in October 2019 – “get ready for it now” – a total of 6 combat task related events to include the 2 mile run – “its not easy’ – “embrace it, love it, want more of it” – concern about combat ready soldiers.
· * Modernization to
include the just stood up, Army Futures Command
A concluding
thought – the US military is the only country where you take an oath to defend
a document – an IDEA – not a king, or a state or a land or a country – the idea
is that we are all born free and equal.
1615 SPECIAL ADDRESS
with Q&A: GEN David L. Goldfein, Air Force Chief of Staff
The General
started with thanking spouses and retirees.
First spouses – ‘the best deal we’ll ever get’ and retirees – for
staying the course through the 70’s–80’s -90’s ‘allowing us to get where we are
today.
His concern was
the FUTURE – where do we need to be in 2039 – although he had slides and did
not speak from notes – he was still hard to follow. The message was Train-Equip – Multi-Domain
Ops . The message was a person in charge
– a plan – a schedule. The message was
Purposeful Leadership – Fitness – Esprit de Corps. I did understand his closing : “ . . . the goal is to bring it all together
(action in all the domains of air, land, sea, space and cyber - at the same
time – interconnecting them) in a way that an adversary cannot counter.
 |
| Mardi Gras World |
 |
| Mardi Gras World |
 |
| Mardi Gras World |
GOVERNORS RECEPTION: MARDI GRAS WORLD – along the river a large warehouse where Mardi Gras floats and masks are made and stored. Plenty of Louisiana food and beverages along with 4 bands and fireworks.
SUNDAY August 26, 2018
WEATHER: another sunny day in New Orleans
TRAVEL: chartered bus transportation from the hotels
to the events
 |
| Immaculate Conception |
 |
| Dejavu |
Breakfast at Déjà Vu, 400 Dauphine Street (Dauphine & Conti) in the French Quarter
Mass at Immaculate Conception Jesuit Church, 130 Baronne St, just off Canal Street – 3 blocks from the Sheraton Hotel.
140th GENERAL CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION of the
NATIONAL GUARD ASSOCIATION of the UNITED STATES
The National Guard; “America’s Sword & Shield
1100 Total Army Apache
Operations in Afghanistan: COL Mark
Johnson, CDR 3rd Combat Brigade – a video conference
1120 Status of the
National Guard with Q&A: GEN Joseph L. Lengyel, Texas, Chief of the
National Guard Bureau – same message as Mattis, Milley and Goldfein.
1200 Retiree Luncheon
& Caucus
Hospitality Night in addition to 38 states sponsoring their own hospitality rooms – the big events were at:
Club Masquerade, Harrahs Casino
Fulton Alley,
600 Fulton Street
House of Blues. 225 Decatur Street
Republic, 826
Peters St8
The Riverview Room, 600 Decatur St Level 4
MONDAY August 27, 2018
WEATHER: another sunny day in New Orleans
but intermmtant showers in the afternoon
TRAVEL: St. Charles Street Trolley to the Garden
District; chartered bus
transportation from the hotels to the events
140th GENERAL CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION of the
NATIONAL GUARD ASSOCIATION of the UNITED STATES
The National Guard; “America’s Sword & Shield
A morning filled
with Army & Air Separate Sessions, and a 3rd Business Session
featuring awards, reports, reports on resolutions & bylaws and the
election. I decided to take the St.
Charles Trolley and a walking
tour of the Garden District.
 |
| Garden District Commander's Palace |
 |
| Garden District Corn Stalk Fence a symbol of wealth |
 |
| Garden District - cemetery |
NEW ORLEANS – GARDEN DISTRICT
A residential
neighborhood – full of architecture – the “American” sector of town - . I decided to take a guided tour. Basically just me on the tour - - -
Architectural splendor.
Took the St.
Charles Streetcar –Homes of Ann
Rice, John Goodman, Nicolas Cage, Sandra Bullock and Archie Peyton (Peyton Manning’s family), the
cornstalk fence, film locations of Interview With A Vampire,
Django Unchained, The
Strange Life of Benjamin Button.
A streetcar ride
on St. Charles to Napolean and lunch at Pascal Manale’s – excellent barbeque shrimp.
STATES DINNER – Mardi Gras Ball – a dinner that far exceeded expectations – no wine on
the table but the food was outstanding – There was a band afterwoards but few –
perhaps none from Wisconsin stuck around.
TUESDAY August 28, 2018
WEATHER: scattered thunderstorms in the mroning - 80's - mostly cloudy occasional showers
TRAVEL: shuttle to airport, rent a car, drive to Baton
Rouge – visit with
friends
It appears that
I got the silent auction bid on a Vince Lombardi print -I was the first bid – the only bid - plan is to donate it it to Rotary
Roundup in September – called
and the sellers will ship it to my home.
Dinner with
friends in Baton Rouge and a visit to
After 5 days in
New Orleans and listening to who knows how many bands – the visit to the Time Out Lounge was a gem
..Check out Lil Ray Neal on You-Tube – he plays
blues and apparently invited many of his friends to attend this evening. We stayed for 3 hours and listened to parts
of at least 6 area bands. It was a great
evening.
WEDNESDAY August 29, 2018
WEATHER: cloudy in the 80’s – rained the
last hour of driving on I-10 from Baton Rogue to Houston – mostly cloudy
clearing toward sunset
TRAVEL: Baton Rouge to Houston, stay at the Hilton–Americas-Houston
Hilton Americas-Houston
A very nice
hotel, across from the convention center, 4 blocks from Minute
Maid Park – Apparently, I
rate Diamond Privileges with Hilton – complimentary WIFI & hors d’oeuvres
in the Executive Level Lounge and perhaps parking.
 |
| Minute Maid PArk - Houston, Texas |
HOUSTON ASTROS vs OAKLAND ATHLETICS A good game – to a fairly full ballpark full
of enthusiastic fans. The score was tie
4-4 for five innings when a solo home run in the 9th won the game
for the Astros.
Houston Astros –World Champions - - - - - - only in baseball - - - not in other areas such as service -
they need to upgrade their computer systems . .
. . .
1 – I couldn’t buy a ticket on line from their MLB site because they
only accept credit cards form TX and LA.
When I tried to call the line was busy, never answered or answered in
Spanish – I bought a ticket from STUBHUB.
2 -The same goes for paying with a credit card at any of the food
& beverage stands – even the Team Stores in the park - long lines and waits
because the system is slow.
3 – And the entry was backed up – they only two scanning machines operating with minimal staff
IN A NUTSHELL – LITTLE SENSE OF UGRENCY or SERVICE in HOUSTON
 |
| Minute Maid Park - Houston Astors vs Oakland Athletics |
Dinner of a
burger & fries at a sports bar called Biggios in the Marriott – Houston.
THURSDAY August 30, 2018
WEATHER: mostly sunny – it was 99 by 3 pm
TRAVEL: Houston, TX to College Station, TX to Waco,
TX
BUSH PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUM
 |
| George Bush Library - Texas A&M Campus - College Station, TX |
 |
| WWII veteran - at age 18 flew for the US Navy in the Paciific - was shot down and rescused |
 |
| Director of the CIA |
 |
| Ambassador to the UN |
 |
| Envoy to China |
 |
| Vice President |
The museums
exhibits reveal the challenges and influences that shaped George Bush’s life
and presidency. A mix of artifacts,
documents, music and interactive videos – the museum traces much of America’s
history since 1941 . . .
 |
| A sizable portion of the exhbit was devoted to the Gulf War |
 |
| President's Oval Office on the bookshelf - Wahsington,Lincoln & Roosevelt |
A good visit – I spent 3 ½ hours in the museum – you could spend more.
406 WACO MAMMOTH NATIONAL MONUMENT, Waco, TX
On July 10, 2015, President Barack Obama issued a
Presidential Proclamation making the Waco Mammoth Site a new unit of
the National Park System.
This paleontological site represents the nation’s only recorded discovery of a
nursery herd of Columbian mammoths. Visitors can view "in situ"
fossils including female mammoths, a bull mammoth, and a camel that lived
approximately 67,000 years ago.
 |
| A recent find - note the Partnerships - the NPS is a but welcome late arrival |
 |
| Unique - Columbian Mammorths lived during the Ice Age but much further south where the grass was more plentyful - larger than Wooley Mammoths and Mastodons. |
A quick visit – no film - a small visitor center - the Columbian Mammoth is larger than the
Woolly Mammoth
and lived further south where grass was plentiful. The site is unique because of a least three
flood events that appears to have caught the animals in water and mud that
preserved them at different times in history.
 |
| This is a view of the preserved dig site under the climate controlled shelter. There were 3 events in the past that brought the animals to their demise at differnt times - all due to flash flood or mud slides |
Waco Mammoth National Monument sits within 100 acres of wooded parkland along the Bosque River. Surrounded by oak, mesquite and cedar trees, the site offers an escape from the modern world and provides a glimpse into the lives and habitat of Columbian mammoths and other Ice Age animals.
 |
| Like the fossils in Dinosaur National Monument - Utah These fossils lie where they were found |
 |
| Comparison |
 |
| An elegant steak dinner at Diamond Back's - Waco, TX near Baylor University |
Since the discovery of the site in 1978, museum staff, students and volunteers have spent thousands of hours excavating and working to preserve the fossil material. While the remains excavated through 1990 are now housed at Baylor University's Mayborn Museum Complex, most of the fossil specimens excavated since then remain in situ(still in their original position within the bone bed). These specimens have been protected in recent years by a climate-controlled Dig Shelter, allowing for both public viewing and further scientific study.
Not a lot to do
here – no film – just the structure and the protected specimens – a small VC
not part of NPS - spent just over an hour in the park
FRIDAY August 31, 2018
WEATHER: another hot day in Texas –
forecast high of 100 degrees today.
Someone yesterday mentioned to me that they ’can’t wait for Fall to
arrive’
TRAVEL: Waco to Arlington/Dallas/Fort Worth
TEXAS RANGER HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM, Waco, Texas
“They
were men who could not be stampeded.”
That's the way the late Col. Homer Garrison, Jr., long-time director of the Texas Department of Public Safety, once
described the men who have worn the silver or gold star of the Texas Rangers,
the oldest state law enforcement agency in North America. The Rangers have a heritage that began with
the earliest settlements in Texas. They have been compared to other world-famous
law enforcement agencies, the FBI, Scotland Yard, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. |
| From radio to TV's Clayton Moore Lone Ranger of the 1950's to Chuck Norris in the 90's as Walker: Texas Ranger the legend lives on |
 |
| Compnay B of the Texas Ranger Frontier Battalion Circa 1880 |
The Rangers are part of the history of the Old West, and part of its mythology.
Over the years, a distinct Ranger tradition
has evolved. As former Ranger Capt. Bob Crowder once put it, "A Ranger is an officer who is
able to handle any given situation without definite instructions from his
commanding officer, or higher authority. This ability must be proven before a
man becomes a Ranger."
Todays Rangers:
Texas Rangers
are selected from the ranks of the Department of Public Safety. No recruiting
has ever been necessary. It is not unusual for more than 100 officers to apply
for only a single opening.
To become a Ranger, a DPS officer must have at least eight years of commissioned law enforcement experience (including two years with the DPS) and must have at least 60 hours of college or equivalencies, Ranger appointments are made up on the basis of a competitive examination and oral interviews. Rangers are required to attend at least 40 hours of in-service training every two years, but for most Rangers, the training far exceeds that. Some Rangers receive additional training in areas such as investigative hypnosis, which has played an important role in numerous criminal cases.
To become a Ranger, a DPS officer must have at least eight years of commissioned law enforcement experience (including two years with the DPS) and must have at least 60 hours of college or equivalencies, Ranger appointments are made up on the basis of a competitive examination and oral interviews. Rangers are required to attend at least 40 hours of in-service training every two years, but for most Rangers, the training far exceeds that. Some Rangers receive additional training in areas such as investigative hypnosis, which has played an important role in numerous criminal cases.
 |
| George W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum on the campus of Southern Methodist University Dallas, TX |
Located
on the campus of Southern Methodist University (SMU).
 |
| Words to live by, perhaps politics were not so devisive then |
 |
| A life changing event -September 11, 2001 |
On January 20, 2009, the National Archives and Records Administration finalized the
transfer of millions of Presidential Records from the Administration of
President George W. Bush into its legal custody. I understand that, when completed, Obama’s museum in Chicago will not contain his records.
The permanent exhibit at the George W.
Bush Presidential Library and Museum examines the life and career of George W.
Bush. It brings the story of President and Mrs. Bush’s leadership alive for
visitors by highlighting the principles they followed when making key decisions
and by promoting an understanding of the Presidency, American history and
government, and public policy.
Nothing in this museum about George growing up . . . it starts right out with a revisit to 9/11 . . . . and ends with a basically - home video of George and Laura thanking you for visiting – a different approach – making them approachable and real
OPPORTUNITY – Every child can learn
Free
enterprise is the engine of prosperity
You can
spend your money better than the government can
FREEDOM - Freedom is universal
Free people
will set the course of history
The best hop
for peace is the expansion of fredom
RESPONSIBILITY To whom much is given, much
is required
Results matter
Serve a
purpose larger than yourself
COMPASSION - We have a moral obligation to relieve
suffering
Fighting
disease abroad makes us safer at home
Every life
if precious
 |
| The Oval Office - the Resolute Desk on the shelf are the works of Roosevelt, Franklin |
Highlights
·
A Nation Under Attack - The events of September
11, 2001, - makes you
remember - a solemn and moving memorial to a pivotal moment in our Nation's
history.
·
Life in the White House - The pomp and circumstance that comes with a state
dinner, and a film in the White House Theater about Camp David, the Bush Ranch
in Texas, and the President and First Lady's sense of humor – entertaining..
·
Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan . . . . .
·
Oval Office - The Oval Office exhibit
is an exact replica, in scale and design, as the one in the the White House during
the Bush Administration. Visitors get an up-close look at the paintings,
sculptures, and bookcases, and may even sit behind the reproduction of the Resolute
Desk for a
photograph.
·
Critical Decisions – an interactive exhibit where you can play the role of President and
dive into the decision-making process. Hear presidential advisers and voice
how you would
act as President when faced with major crises such as Hurricane Katrina or the troop
surge in Iraq.
 |
| Laura Bush |
 |
| First Ladies |
The special
exhibit traced the contributions of First Ladies.
 |
| Words he lived by |
 |
| Saltgrass Texas Steak House next to the Hilton Garden Inn a mix between Texas Roadhouse & Applebees |
SATURDAY September 1, 2018
WEATHER: another hot day in Texas –
forecast high in the upper 90’s today and the ‘skies are not cloudy all day’ –
well some clouds started to develop after noon
TRAVEL: Arlington area
 |
| St. Matthew's - Arlington TX |
About 120 in the
church with a mixed crowd of Hispanic, Negro, Asian and White . . . . the priest was elderly but spunky – he read
his homily like it was a novel – unfortunately he read so fast and the sound
system did not allow every word to come through clearly – this guy was unique. A single cantor with a clear voice – organ
and piano accompaniment ..
 |
| Texas Rangers Globe Life Park |
TEXAS RANGERS vs MINNESOTA TWINS, Globe Life Park, Arlington, TX. After this park there are only 4 MLB parks that I have not visited – Miami Marlins, Chicago White Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and the Arizona Diamondbacks. I plan to see the Diamondbacks later this month.
Globe Life Park is
about 1.2 miles from the hotel I’m staying at
- I don’t think it reached 100 today only 97 - it was 95 at 7 pm – The Hilton
Garden Inn offered a free ticket
on a trolley shuttle – pick up times were 5:30 and 6:15 – NO GO because I’d be
at mass – So, I drove to the park from St. Matthew’s . A new ball park is
scheduled to open in 2020. The baseball
park is literally next to the football stadium – like Philadelphia
and Kansas City At
first glance parking seemed to be a nightmare but I found a spot for $15. Most of the lots are business parking – a
different kind of setup.
 |
| View from the outfield - Rangers at bat - Twins on the field |
The park reminded me at first of Boston . . .as I walked around the park on the first level the only place I could see the ball field was from a few places in the outfield. My set was in the second tier on the 3rd base side – a fairly good seat for $37. It was HOT inside the park. Hard to rate – it looks like an OK park – but it will not stand – a new park in 2020 - I'm thinking with a roof. I didn’t see any beer vendors in the stands.
SUNDAY September 2, 2018
WEATHER: 79 at 6 am in Arlington, TX
TRAVEL: DFW to
ORD to MKE on UA
TUESDAY September 25, 2018
WEATHER: 59 at 5 am in Milwaukee, 80 in
Phoenix at 9:15 am – 99 at 5 pm with a forecast low of 79 at 6 am tomorrow
morning
TRAVEL: MKE-PHX on American Airlines; Super Shuttle to Holiday
Inn Express Downtown
– Ballpark in Phoenix, AZ
– able to walk to Chase Field
*This should be an interesting trip – I left my cell phone at
home .
*Of course, the DBacks
website would not let
me print the ticket – it’s on my phone.
After getting to
a helpful ticket agent – I got my ticket and got in the ballpark.
*And I forgot
to bring my GARMIN – getting out
of Las Vegas to Castle Mountain National Monument in California should be interesting.
Holiday Inn Express Downtown – Ballpark – a typical HIE – but
EXPENSIVE. I arrived about 0945 and of
course the room was not ready – I walked around downtown and the campus of ASU
– pleasant enough but hot in the sun. Found St. Mary’s Basilica.
ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS (4) vs. LOS ANGELES
DODGERS (3) at Chase Field 6:40 pm start time. This park has a retractable roof – it was originally
closed then opened for the game. I sat
along the right field line – just past first base. The Visiting Team Dugout is on the 1st
Base/Right Field Line – it was full of Dodger’s Fans.
A good game – finally in the 6th Inning the DBacks got 2 runs to get a 3-1lead on the Dodger’s. Tied 3-3 in the middle of the 9th
, the DBacks got a run to win 4-3.
 |
| Chase Field - photo from the internet |
| Add caption |
Vendors here are the most
enthusiastic that I’ve seen in a long time.
I almost gave the Cotton Candy lady a $5 tip because of her personality
– the Chhhhhhhhharos guy was just as good . The beer vendors were above average but not
close to those in Philadelphia.
WEDNESDAY September 26, 2018
WEATHER: 75 in Phoenix at 5 am;
TRAVEL: PHX-LAS on American Airlines; ODS Shuttle to Hilton
Grand Vacation Suites on the Blvd, Las Vegas. -
walked to the Wynn and return
Hilton Grand Vacation Suites on the Blvd – located on the north end fo
the strip – just north of Circus Circus.
Amiable check-in – parking will be $13 per day – if I decide to park
here Friday. The one bedroom is just
like Tuscany Village in Orlando except no balcony - and entry from a halway makes it feel like a hotel.. I’m on the 8th floor of a 39 story
tower. There is no casino on the
property.
 |
| Days of Future Passed - album cover |
Tour – Wynn Hotel 8 pm
I’ve been a fan
since I purchased “On the Threshold Of A Dream (1969)” followed by purchase of “In
Search of the Lost Chord (1968)” and “Our Children’s Children’s
Children (1969)” – while in
Basic Training (Fort Knox, KY 1970) some fellow soldiers introduced me to “Days
of Future Passed (1968)” which I later purchased.
Actually the
band hit the charts in 1966 with a blues single called “Go Now.” Hayward and Lodge were not part of the group
then.
 |
| Pinder, Edge, Hayward, Thomas, Lodge 1970 |
The members
included Mike Pinder, Ray Thomas, Graeme Edge, Justin Hayward and John Lodge. Pinder retired in the late 70’s, Thomas in the
2000’s. The concert tour featured Lodge
(bass) and Hayward (guitar) – Edge (drums) was “ill”. The group had a keyboardist, stand in
drummer, and two women who sang the high background vocals also played flute,
guitar and keyboards.
The Encore Theater at the Wynn was intimate – seating maybe 1800 – seats reminiscent of the REP – but at a bit of a steeper incline – every seat is a good sat – I sat Center Section, Row N , middle. Attended by aging hippies and other elders . . .
 |
| Justin Hayward,& John Lodge 2013 |
The second half
of the concert was the entirety of “Days of Future Passed”, sans The London Festival Orchestra, which was filled in with
recordings and videos – poetry recited by Jeremy Irons on video. Lodge still bounces all around the sage –
Hayward more stationary but both still have their voice. Well done – even if
the orchestral recordings seemed to be pushing the amplification limit of the speakers –
They closed with an encores of “Story In
Your Eyes” (Every Good Boy Deserves Favour 1971)” -“Question” (Question
of Balance 1970) - “I
Know You’re Out There Somewhere” (Sur Le Mer 1988) and “Ride My Seesaw” (In Search of the Lost Chord 1968) - maybe the best was last..
My only souvenir
is the memory and a 50th Anniversary koozie.
FRIDAY September 28, 2018
WEATHER: 69 at 6 am clear -
TRAVEL: Shuttle to McCarren Airport then the shuttle to the Rental
Car Facility – travel to Kelso, Mojave National Preserve and skirted around Castle
Mountains National Monument
I upgraded to a
4 Wheel Drive Jeep Wrangler – a mistake since all the roads to Castle Mountains National
Monument were closed. Without a cell phone or my GARMN I didn’t bother
the drive down the closed roads to see how far I could get. Well at least I drove a good looking jeep.
407 CASTLE MOUNTAINS NATIONAL MONUMENT, Mohave Desert, CA
 |
| Map of Castle Mountains National Monument - adjacent to Mojave National Preserve All the roads to reach tis were closed by the National Park Service |
This is Number 407 of a possible 417 sites run by the National Park Service. I visited Mojave National Preserve on February 12, 2016 – the Visitor Centers are in Kelso and Hole-In-The Wall. Today I visited the Kelso VC again, since there is no separate VC for Castle Mountains. Hole-In-The –Wall was closed. Castle Mountains was almost always federal land – it adjoins Mojave National Preserve.
On February 12, 2016 - President Obama designated three desert areas in California as National Monuments. Sand to Snow (USFS/BLM), Mohave Trails (BLM)
and Castle Mountains (NPS). It is
serendipitous that I visited Mohave
National Preserve on the same date.
The move permanently protected "nearly 1.8 million acres of
America's public lands," the White House said in a news release.
All three areas lie east of Los Angeles. Two of the new
monuments — Castle Mountains and Mojave Trails — are near California's
border with Nevada.
 |
| Aerial view of the three new National Monuments and their proximity to Mohave National Preserve and Joshua Tree National Park - there is nothin out there but desert |
And crucially, "the new monuments will link already
protected lands, including Joshua Tree
National Park, Mojave National
Preserve, and fifteen congressionally-designated Wilderness areas,
permanently protecting key wildlife corridors and providing plants and animals
with the space and elevation range that they will need in order to adapt to the
impacts of climate change," the release says.
The Los Angeles Times explains how this designation was reached:
The Los Angeles Times explains how this designation was reached:
"The
designation was requested by U.S. Sen.
Dianne Feinstein, who for a
decade has sought to protect land that wasn't included in the 1994 California Desert Protection Act.
That measure covered nearly 7.6 million acres, elevated Death Valley and Joshua Tree
to national park status and created
the Mojave National Preserve.
"Unable to gain momentum on her California Desert Conservation and
Recreation Act last year, Feinstein and
conservation groups asked Obama to act
unilaterally to create the three monuments overlapping biological
zones between roughly Palm Springs and the Nevada border."
 |
| NPS photo fo Castle Mountains National Monument but for my money this could be anywhere in the Mohave National Preserve |
There is no Visitor
Center, it shares the Kelso VC with Mohave National Preserve.
The
White House says Obama has now protected more than 265 million acres of land
and water. That's more than any other U.S. administration.
Castle
Mountains National Monument is the smallest of the three, at 20,920 acres. The focal point is Castle Peaks, a cluster of epic spires that soar skyward like the
ramparts of an ancient fortress. Its wildlife inhabitants include golden eagles, bighorn sheep,
mountain lions and bobcats.
Of the 3, only Castle
Mountain National Monument is
administered t by the National Park
Service. Castle
Mountains National Monument is open
year-round. There are no facilities in the Monument. The Kelso Visitor Center in neighboring Mojave National Preserve provides
information and orientation.
And the newly designated area "provides a critical linkage
for plants, animals, and water between two mountain ranges within the Preserve,
the New York Mountains to the northwest and the Piute Mountains to the
southeast," the White House says.
This linkage will contribute to the survival of a herd of desert
bighorn sheep, according to the White House.
Also in the protected area is the ghost town of Hart, which has
been abandoned since 1920.
The Visitor Center for Mohave
National Preserve was open. I
stooped and viewed a video about Mohave
National Preserve. There was no
mention of Castle Mountains. I did
have a NPS Passport Stamp. There is only a 1 page 8 ½ x 11, black and
white tri-fold available about Castle
Mountains. There are no plans for
improvement of the area, no plans for a Visitor Center, - it will just be left
alone and to boot . . . there was no
access to the area today – all roads leading to the monument were closed.
Castle Mountains represents some of the most
unique elements of the Mojave Desert. Nestled between the Nevada state line and
Mojave National Preserve, the nearly
21,000 acres of Castle Mountains boasts Joshua tree forests,
unbroken natural landscapes, rare desert grasslands, and rich human history.
This intriguing area provides serenity and solitude from nearby metropolitan
areas – of course you have to figure out how to get there.
I
believe Castle Mountains National Monument was put under the purview of the National Park Service only because it is adjacent to Mohave National Preserve. .
I
HAVE VISITED ALL BUT 10 SITES RUN BY THE
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE.
1-2 Two
of them Governor’s Island in New York city is only open
from Memorial Day to Labor Day (I was NYC in mid May) and Great Egg Harbor, NJ were not available. Great Egg Harbor is a mix of State & Federal properties
with no Visitor Centers.
3-4 I was unable to visit Aniachak National Monument and Preserve (featured
highlight similar to Crater Lake) in Alaska due to
weather. It was fogged in – there are no
roads there – the “bush pilot” flight was scheduled out of King Salmon, AK. I got the passport stamps for the Monument & Preserve in King Salmon but did not get to or step
foot on the land of the monument/preserve.
5-10 The remaining sites were created by Obama
after I had been through the area. Reconstruction Era (NC)
& Freedom Riders (AL) have as of yet, no
facilities open to the public. Stonewall and another Harriet Tubman are in
NYC. Kathadin Woods is in a remote
part of Maine near Baxter State Park,home to the end of the Appalachian Trail
and Mount Kathadin. I visted Baxter in
2012. Blackstone
River Valley is
in Rhode Island.
La Reve
‘The Dream” – Wynn Theater – my last night in
Vegas - I had wanted to see Mystere at Treasure Island but it was a ‘dark day’ – La Reve was my second
choice – both are Cirque de Soleil shows. La Reve is a mix of Love (theater in the
round); “O” (water ballet and diving and specially
designed theater/stage) and a little bit of Ka (good and evil)
with a story line that reminded me of Lord of the
Dance
with a mini Bellagio Water Fountain show thrown in
for good measure. A 1 hour 20 minute
show with a cast of well over 60 – how do they do they things and hold their
breath under water so long?. So much
going on you can’t see it all.
SATURDAY September 29, 2018
WEATHER: still warm
TRAVEL: Drove to McCarren Airport Rental Car Facility, then the
shuttle to the airport – fly on American Airlines from Las Vegas to Chicago to
Milwaukee.
Got to the
airport early enough – too early I was here at 0430 flight is at 0700 – allowed
me to catch up on this post.
Look to the Ice
Age Trail Post for September,
October November adventures.
Only other travel planned this year is a trip to Phoenix - Scottsdale for golf in early November.
SATURDAY November 3, 2018
Talking Stick Golf
Club is a Native American owned facility
designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw. It is located on the land of the Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community. With two distinct backgrounds and cultures,
the community is comprised of tow Native American tribes: the Pima,
“Akimel
O’Odham” (River People) and the Maricopas
“Xalychidom
Piipaash” (People who live toward the water)..
There are three courses at Wig Wam, the Gold Course Club tees 6348 yards – Rating 69.8 Slope 121 Forward tees 5885 yards – Rating 67.5 Slope 116, the Blue Course Jones tees 6000 - Rating 69.0 Slope 123 Club tees 5,199 yerds – Rating 65.6 Slope 113 , and the Red Course Club tees 6291 yards – Rating 69.3 Slope 117, Forward tees 5,578 yards.
Built in 1972, the Red Course is a traditional layout lined with pine and
eucalyptus trees. The course’s closing stretch of holes (15, 16, 17 and 18)
just may be the toughest final four holes in the Phoenix area. The 15th hole is
a 414-yard par-4 that requires a well-placed tee shot to bring birdie or par
into play. The 454-yard, par-4 16th features a dogleg left and an approach shot
to an elevated, well-protected green with water right and back. The 17th hole
is a lengthy par-3 measuring a solid 250 yards from the tips. And finally, the
591-yard 18th hole is a monster par-5 with a dogleg left off the tee. Three
well-played shots are required for a chance at birdie or par on the closing
hole.
After finishing the
round we drove about 5 miles north to Luke Air Force Base and its Falcon Dunes Golf Course.
The course is just off the fenced base, so you do not have to go through
the gate. The course looks good and
prices are very reasonable. This is an
option to play and stay - sometime during the future. Air Force Inns at Luke has the Fighter
Country Inn
WEATHER: MKE-MSP=PHX 78 at 1011 in PHX – a high of 82 sunny and
clear
TRAVEL:: MKE-MSP-PHX, rented a car at the
airport. They didn’t have the standard
size vehicle ready for us so we upgraded to a Chevy Silverado – no extra charge. Drove to Les Sendas Golf Club, Mesa, AZ – Holiday Inn Vacation Club Scottsdale Resort – K O’Donell’s
Sports Bar for
dinner and return to the HIVC.
 |
| Les Sendas GC |
Les Sendas Golf Club – a Robert Trent Jones Jr. designed course set in the desert winding through neighborhoods with a
southwestern adobe architecture style. A
semi-private club – Buy-in is $45,000 (now reduced to $29,000) with an annual
fee of $15,000. A very nice golf course
– our cost $77 a round with cart – cart path only - because of over seeding.
 |
| Las Sendas GC |
Las Sendas Golf Club is widely considered to be one of the Top 10 Golf Courses in Phoenix,
Scottsdale, and Mesa. In 1995, Robert Trent Jones Jr. made his Arizona debut joining an elite list of world class architects
who have left their mark in the desert southwest with the opening of Las Sendas Golf Club.
A demanding desert-style layout winding through the Usery Mountains in eastern Mesa, this upscale course is setting the standard for customer service in the Mesa, Scottsdale, and Greater Phoenix areas. Las Sendas’ spectacular views of the Phoenix metropolis and skyline help soften the demand of managing your game through the rugged terrain, nearly 1800 feet above the desert floor.
A demanding desert-style layout winding through the Usery Mountains in eastern Mesa, this upscale course is setting the standard for customer service in the Mesa, Scottsdale, and Greater Phoenix areas. Las Sendas’ spectacular views of the Phoenix metropolis and skyline help soften the demand of managing your game through the rugged terrain, nearly 1800 feet above the desert floor.
We played with a couple from Vancouver – Elmer was a
long ball hitter – Natalie was not a bad hitter. Beautiful course, desert setting, but just a
bit too long for me. I played from the BLUE tees (5,573 yards – Rating 69.8 Slope 128) but it still was not possible for me to reach most greens in
regulation. My brother and Elmer played
from the GOLD (6,059 yards – Rating
71.3 Slope 133).. Lots of
sand and desert scrub for your ball to wander into, Played in about 4 hours.
HOLIDAY INN VACATION CLUB – SCOTTSDALE RESORT
- not as elegant as Hilton’s but amiable – a 2 bedroom villa – lower
level – reminded us of growing up in a basement flat – but much larger and
obviously much nicer. Nine buildings, 4
themed pools, 3 whirlpools – judging by the open number of parking spaces –
appears to be half full.
SUNDAY November 4, 2018
WEATHER: 62 at 0545 - up to the low 80's
DST ended at 2 am but
AZ never goes so no ‘fall back’.
Sunrise 0649 Sunset 1733 Scottsdale
TRAVEL:: about a 20 minute drive
 |
| Talking Stick GC |
“When commissioned to design Talking Stick Golf Club, Coore and Crenshaw were charged to create
two golf courses to accommodate public play yet each decidedly different, with
respect to playing characteristics.
 |
| Talking Stick GC |
Talking Stick Golf
Club’s O’odham Course (formerly North Course), with its broad, angular
holes, rewards thoughtful play through the rise of its many options according
to one’s level of skill. Its low profile, slightly crowned greens and
close-cropped approaches encourage running as well as aerial assaults.
The Piipaash Course
(formerly South Course) with its tree lined fairways and raised greens defended
at the sides offers a more straightforward style of play. It presents its
challenge and strategy in an open and clear-cut fashion.
We played the Piipaash. I shot a 50 on the front and a 48 on the back
nine. Played in just about 4 hours Cost was $117 plus tax. Green with some trees – I played from front
nine from GOLD tees, 2,980 yards (Rating 69.7 Slope 120) but short about 100 yards on every drive compared to the
other three in my foursome. I played the
back nine from the JADE tees 2,650 yards (Rating 67.4 Slope 108). It made it more enjoyable – my drives were at
least even with the others in my fourseom.
HOLIDAY INN VACATION CLUB – SCOTTSDALE RESORT
- an unfortunate experience with the sales staff. It seemed like it was too good to be
true. It was. Ruthless. I felt like I was “baited and dumped.”
Visited TPC Scottsdale Golf Club and a cigar store. Home of the largest-attended tournament in the world, the
fan-favorite Waste Management Phoenix Open, TPC Scottsdale is a masterful blend of
challenge and playability – compelling the sport’s top players and recreational
golfers alike.
Set in the rugged Sonoran Desert and surrounded by the
stunning McDowell Mountains, TPC Scottsdale boasts two championship
courses for players to enjoy – the world famous Stadium Course and the stunning Champions Course. As Arizona’s only PGA TOUR property, you’ll experience
the standards of quality and service normally reserved for the TOUR
professionals.
Home to the PGA TOUR’s
fan-favorite Waste Management Phoenix Open, The Stadium Course at TPC Scottsdale has
hosted some of contemporary golf’s greatest moments since opening in 1986. The
course was designed by Jay Morrish and Tom Weiskopf specifically to serve as
the stage for the tournament – what’s now become the largest spectator golf
event in the world.
Rivaling its famous
sister course in both beauty and playability, the Randy Heckenkemper-designed Champions Course offers an ideal desert
golf experience. Built on the former site of TPC Scottsdale’s Desert Course, the layout was completely revamped
in 2007 to flow seamlessly within the naturally rugged terrain, meandering
between natural ravines and through picturesque foothills.
Dinner at a Mexican
sports bar.
Sunday Night Football
PACKERS 17 PATRIOTS 34 lost opportunities the Pack just couldn’t keep up
MONDAY November 5, 2018
WEATHER: 58 at 6 am high in the low 80’s
clear and sunny
Sunrise 0650 Sunset 1732 Scottsdale
TRAVEL:: a 50 minute drive west -
 |
| Wig Wam Red Course |
There are three courses at Wig Wam, the Gold Course Club tees 6348 yards – Rating 69.8 Slope 121 Forward tees 5885 yards – Rating 67.5 Slope 116, the Blue Course Jones tees 6000 - Rating 69.0 Slope 123 Club tees 5,199 yerds – Rating 65.6 Slope 113 , and the Red Course Club tees 6291 yards – Rating 69.3 Slope 117, Forward tees 5,578 yards.
We played the Wigwam’s Red Course.
A favorite among locals and club members. The
wide, tree-lined fairways lead to generously-sized greens while streams and
ponds meander throughout the course bringing water into play on 10 holes. Reminded me
of a Florida course but the trees were not as big and no gators. This course did not look like desert.
 |
| Wig Wam Red Course |
Aside from the design, these last
four holes had mature trees and water.
They were significantly different from anything else we’ve played in the
desert.
We played with a father/son from Reno, NV. I shot a
49/48 from the Forward tees.
 |
| Falcon Dunes Club House |
 |
| Trilogy Club House |
Another drive
brought us to Trilogy Golf Club at
Vistancia. This is the course we’ll play tomorrow. Looks very good. Nice club house – well attended – we had a
pizza and 2 beers for $20.18.
TUESDAY November 6, 2018
WEATHER: 58 at 0500 - 82 for a high sunny and clear
Sunrise 0651 Sunset 1731 Scottsdale
TRAVEL:: a 40 minute drive northwest
 |
| Trilogy at Vistancia #15 |
The Trilogy
at Vistancia Golf Course was designed by Gary Pranks. It
has a high chaparral look among its Sonoran Foothills location..
 |
| Trilogy at Vistancia |
With more than 70 pronounced and
transitional bunkers that feed gently into the golf course’s fairways and
native areas, Trilogy
Golf Club at Vistancia highly rewards careful planning
and precise execution by the golfer. There are five different tee boxes from
which to choose on this unique 18-hole, par 72-championship golf course. Tees
range from 5,573 yards to 7,259 yards, allowing players of every skill level to
enjoy this exceptional test of golf.
The course has just been open for 4 days since
re-seeding.. It was a 4 hours
round. I played the Forward tees 5,571 yards – Rating
66.6 Slope 113. My brother
played the Verde tees 6,132 yards
Rating 68.8 Slope 120. I shot 51/47 – I was in the sand for the first 4 holes.
Had lunch at Trilogy – dinner with a grand niece
studying at Arizona State
University..
WEDNESDAY November 7, 2018
WEATHER: 58 at 0500
TRAVEL:: PHX-MSP-MKE
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