Our first Route 66 Work Day, went very well. Texas President of Route 66, Bob Lile, and Cheryl, from Booker, really set it up well, and did a fantastic job. Eight other Route 66 members came, including Dave Willman (66Willy) from Denver, and Emily Priddy from Tulsa, who were able to stay all day. They were a tremendous help, too.
Linda and Rocky Drake came from Vega. There were about a dozen altogether, and it sure made a difference. Three more suites were cleared out, leaving only three more.
Willy, Cheryl and I dug out the courtyard curb, which helped the drainage in the recent cloudbursts. One friend brought a brick cleaner which is sprayed on and washed off. It will make a tremendous difference. A new dumpster was put in place Friday and it was filled.
We don't have the backhoe to pulverize the load in it so there would be room to put the rest of it - but will get that done, somehow.
Quite a few people took pictures. Marvin Morgenstern came and took a bunch of terrific pictures, then stayed and worked. A photographer from Channel 10 stayed all morning and took loads of pictures, did several interviews. they gave excellent coverage on the project and ran it several times. Channel 7 came and took just a few pictures, and interviewed Alan.
Most of the crew ate at Beans 'n Things on Amarillo Blvd E. We talked quite a bit and got more acquainted, which is always a bright spot in any day. Wish you could have been there.
We were warned that most historical agencies offer grants to only no-profit sites, but the Triangle Motel is such an important historical site in this area, and could make such a difference to the eastern end of Amarillo. The $2,000 National Trust grant to help on the architect's $10,000 bill was accomplished through the Old Route 66 Association of Texas.
If you know of a philanthropist interested in restoring historical icons who might want to be involved in restoring a once fabulous ahead-of-its-time motel that is now condemned we would appreciate it. Our heavy expenses are going to hit soon on replacing the roof.
Contact us at Email.ajmcneil@trianglemotelrt66.com, or call 806-676-7627 or 374-4534 and we will get in touch with them.
On September 13, Margaret Foster of the National Trust Newsletter called Alan at work and interviewed him. He was so thrilled. Please read about it on Preservationonline.org. It was called "Story of the Week"
Thanks for keeping in touch.
Alan, Pat and Marianne
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