Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! In today’s episode, Howard sits down with Kristine Watson, the Queen Mother behind the National Route 66 Pageant, right from her home in Newberry Springs, California. Together, they explore the story behind this unique pageant that celebrates not only the rich history of Route 66 but also empowers women of all ages to become ambassadors for their communities and America’s Mother Road.

From the pageant's origins and its special centennial sashes to the differences between pageants and pinup contests, Kristine Watson shares heartfelt memories, community impact, and the vital role pageantry plays in spotlighting the many communities along Route 66, its history, and the local businesses and museums that keep its legacy alive. Whether you’re a pageant fan or a Route 66 enthusiast, this episode promises inspiration, nostalgia, and a celebration of American history and adventure.

DISCUSSION

• Celebrating the Spirit of Route 66—Kristine shares the origins and special mission of the Miss Route 66 Pageant. From handcrafting unique centennial sashes using iconic Route 66 fabric to designing a one-of-a-kind crown, Kristine honors both the highway’s legacy and the women who help keep its history alive
• The pageant is more than a competition—it’s a movement. Contestants from babies to grandmothers don the crown and sash, returning to their home states to shine a light on the historical and cultural significance of Route 66 as community ambassadors.
• Pageantry with Purpose: The Miss Route 66 Pageant isn’t just about crowns and sashes; it’s a movement, rallying support for its preservation and local museums.
• Opportunities Across Generations: From infants to grandmothers (the oldest participant was 82!), this pageant is about inclusivity and providing women of all ages a platform to develop confidence, leadership, and ambassadorial skills.
• Community Impact: Titleholders engage in meaningful community service, collaborate with local chambers and Route 66 museums, and help revitalize businesses and attractions along the legendary highway—all while bringing attention to this historic route in its centennial year.

LEARN MORE

To learn more about the Miss Route 66 Pageant, visit their website at https://route66pageant.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/p/Miss-Route-66-Pageant-100057346393714/

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KEYWORDS

Kristine Watson, Miss Route 66 Pageant, Leadership, Community, Women Empowerment, Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce, Route 66 Centennial, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview

#KristineWatson #MissRoute66Pageant #Leadership #Community #WomenEmpowerment #NewberrySpringsChamberofCommerce #Route66Centennial #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview

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Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast. In this special episode, Howard Fox sits down with John Burrill, a new full-time resident whose family has a long-time history in the Newberry Springs area, nestled in the heart of the Mojave Desert. Surrounded by stunning desert views under a rustic canopy, Howard and John Burrill discuss the rich family history that connects him to this land, dating back to 1915, and the legacy of Camp Caty—a site that has evolved from a Civil War-era fort and cattle ranch into a conservation area.

Listeners will hear stories about the Mojave Road, historic trade routes, archery traditions, and ambitious plans for ecotourism and glamping that honor both the region's natural beauty and historical significance. John shares his vision for sustainable development and the importance of preserving the Mojave Desert's stories and spirit for future generations. Whether you're a history enthusiast, adventure seeker, or simply passionate about the outdoors, this episode invites you to explore the hidden treasures and enduring community of Newberry Springs.

DISCUSSION

00:00 Talking Route 66 and community

03:29 Starting a glamping resort

08:29 Talking about Newberry Springs geographic significance

12:39 Interest in historical tourism

13:55 Preserving Mojave Desert history

START OF WALKABOUT WITH JOHN AND KARLA

16:21 Exploring along the Mojave Trail

18:06 Location of the first Camp Kady Monument

21:36 Finding old wagon tracks

LEARN MORE

To follow John and learn more about his vision for historical tourism in Newberry Springs, visit his Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/wbranchstudios/

YouTube resources that highlight John's family and their homestead adventures:

https://youtu.be/np8u69YfSA8

https://youtu.be/G9WsWNA76fY

https://youtu.be/wkGqD-OktvI

Camp Cady Wildlife Area - https://wildlife.ca.gov/Lands/Places-to-Visit/Camp-Cady-WA.

The Mojave Road & The Old Spanish Trail - https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/the-mojave-road-the-old-spanish-trail.htm.

Mojave River & Lake Manix - https://digital-desert.com/lake-manix/

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KEYWORDS

John Burrill, wbranchstudios, Mojave Trail, Camp Cady, Glamping, Archery GolfNewberry Springs Chamber of Commerce, Route 66 Centennial, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview

#JohnBurrill #wbranchstudios #MojaveTrail #CampCady, #Glamping, ArcheryGolf #NewberrySpringsChamberofCommerce #Route66Centennial #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview

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Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast. We're back at the Newberry Springs Senior / Family Center—home to the Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce, and chatting with Ronnie Shaw, Director, and Karla Claus, Vice President, of the Chamber. They share the vibrant history, community pride, and behind-the-scenes stories that make Newberry Springs a must-visit destination along Route 66.

Whether you’re a road trip enthusiast, a festival lover, or just curious about hidden gems in America’s heartland, this episode promises inspiration and a taste of all things Newberry Springs.

DISCUSSION

Introduction of Ronnie Shaw, director, and Karla Claus, vice president of the Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce

Backgrounds and Roles of the Guests

• Ronnie's history in Newberry Springs since 1993, and inspiration from Treasurer Rose Beardshear
• Karla's role as vice president - Coordinating festivals and performing volunteer duties, participating in outreach activities, and representing the Chamber at local events

Visitor Experience and Common Inquiries

• Maps and information for hiking and travel
• Airbnb's recommendations to visit the Chamber and the local cafe
• Merchandising: T-shirts, water bottles, and local pistachios available

Signature Community Events

• The annual Newberry Springs Pistachio Festival
  • Held on the first Saturday in November
  • Approximately 27–30 years running
• Route 66 Centennial, including a birthday bash and car show in May

Leadership Structure of the Chamber

• President: Renee Kaminsky
• Vice President: Karla Claus
• Director: Ronnie Shaw
• Director: Keller Horton
• Secretary: Diane Yoder Bubier
• Treasurer: Rose Beardshear

Volunteerism and Community Support

• Reliance on volunteers for organizing events like the Pistachio Festival
• American Legion’s involvement in festival operations

LEARN MORE

To learn about Newberry Springs, CA, the Route 66 Big Birthday Bash, the Pistachio Festival, and much more, visit the Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce at https://newberryspringschamber.com/, https://discovernewberrysprings.com, or on these social sites:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewberrySpringsChamber
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nbsp_chamberofcommerce/

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KEYWORDS

Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce, Route 66 Centennial, Pistachio Festival, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview

#NewberrySpringsChamberofCommerce #Route66Centennial #PistachioFestival #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview

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The Magic of Newberry Springs: The Senior & Family Center, and the Drifting Sands Cafe

Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! In today’s episode, host Speaker A visits Newberry Springs, California—a charming stop along the historic Route 66, currently celebrating its centennial anniversary. Broadcasting from the heart of the community at the Newberry Springs Senior/Family Center and the beloved Drifting Sands Cafe, we're sitting down with local volunteer, Kim Gregory. Kim shares her journey from Menifee to Newberry Springs, her involvement with the community center, and what makes this desert town such a warm and welcoming destination.

Get ready to discover the people and places making this a Route 66 destination and must-visit spot on your next road trip!

DICUSSION

Introduction to Kim Gregory

Kim’s Background and Move to Newberry Springs

Kim’s Involvement in the Community

Activities at the Senior / Family Center and Drifting Sands Cafe

Daily life at the Community Center

Community Center and Cafe operating hours

• Wednesday–Saturday: 7 am–2 pm
• Sunday: 7 am–3 pm

The Drifting Sands Cafe Experience

Community Center Features and Thrift Opportunities

The Chamber of Commerce

Living in Newberry Springs & Why Visit Newberry Springs?

Social Media and Contact Information

LEARN MORE

Newberry Springs Senior / Family Center, and Drifting Sands Cafe - 33383 Newberry RD Newberry Spgs CA 92365

https://www.facebook.com/NewberrySpgsSeniorCenter

Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce

To learn about Newberry Springs, CA, the Route 66 Big Birthday Bash, the Pistachio Festival, and much more, visit the Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce at https://newberryspringschamber.com/ or on these social sites:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewberrySpringsChamber
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nbsp_chamberofcommerce/

The Mother Road e-Newsletter: https://motherroadnewsletter.com/newsletter/

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KEYWORDS

Newberry Springs Senior/Family Center, Drifting Sands Cafe, Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce, Route 66 Centennial, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview

#NewberrySpringsSeniorFamilyCenter #DriftingSandsCafe #NewberrySpringsChamberofCommerce #Route66Centennial #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview

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Welcome to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s show, we're immersed in the fascinating history of Newberry Springs with community leaders from the Newberry Springs Economic Development Association - Historical Committee, Paul Deel, and Brian Fisher. Together, they share the legacy of Margaret Orcutt and her unique adobe home—complete with handmade blocks, historical gun ports, and even remnants of her greenhouse where she famously grew orchids.

Paul shares personal stories about Margaret and the origins of her home, uncovering its dream as a sanctuary for unwed mothers and a community gathering space. Meanwhile, Brian takes us behind the scenes with the Newberry Springs Historical Committee, revealing the painstaking process of organizing Margaret's archives and bringing her true story to light.

Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or just curious about the colorful characters that built this desert community, this episode offers a heartfelt look at preserving local heritage and the power of community. So settle in, and let’s journey together through the stories that make Newberry Springs a remarkable stop on Route 66.

DISCUSSION

00:00 Margaret Orcutt's Desert Vision

04:16 "Committee's Historical Cataloging Effort"

09:19 "Route 66 Centennial Adventure"

10:03 "Follow, Listen, Explore, Enjoy"

LEARN MORE

To learn more about NSEDA, visit their website at https://www.nseda.net/.

To learn about Newberry Springs, CA, the Route 66 Big Birthday Bash, the Pistachio Festival, and much more, visit the Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce at https://newberryspringschamber.com/ or on these social sites:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewberrySpringsChamber
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nbsp_chamberofcommerce/

Car & Driver: https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a15385694/mrs-orcutts-driveway-204-mph-on-a-double-nickel-road-page-1

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KEYWORDS

Paul Deel, Brian Fisher, Mrs. Orcutt's Homestead, Mrs. Orcutt's Driveway, NSEDA, Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce, Route 66 Centennial, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview

#PaulDeel #BrianFisher #MrsOrcuttsHomestead #MrsOrcuttsDriveway #NSEDA #NewberrySpringsChamberofCommerce #Route66Centennial #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview

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Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s episode, we're joined by local community leader, Brian Fisher—affectionately known as Mr. Geocache—to explore the hidden stories and adventures of Newberry Springs, California.

Tune in as Brian recounts his journey to this quiet desert community, describing its tranquil charm and the unique history that surrounds it. Discover how Brian, a retired Marine base worker turned passionate historian, is now at the forefront of efforts to preserve the fascinating past of Newberry Springs—including the tale of the cantankerous Mrs. Orcutt and her historic ranch.

We also unravel the adventure and intrigue of geocaching—an international outdoor activity that has brought visitors from all over the world to explore Newberry Springs. Brian shares how geocaching, including his own cleverly designed gadget caches, is putting this desert town on the map for explorers and tourists alike.

This episode offers a mix of history, personal stories, and outdoor excitement. Whether you love tracking down hidden treasures or simply want to learn more about this unique corner of California, don’t miss today’s journey into geocaching and grassroots preservation!

DISCUSSION

00:00 "Retiring to Newberry Springs"

06:06 Mrs. Orcutt's Unique New Life

09:22 Highway Development Landlock Issues

12:01 "Highway Boosted Her Visitability"

14:22 "Camping Misadventure with a 1978 Dodge Polara."

22:10 "History & Geocaching Chat"

LEARN MORE

To learn more about NSEDA, visit their website at https://www.nseda.net/.

To learn about Newberry Springs, CA, the Route 66 Big Birthday Bash, the Pistachio Festival, and much more, visit the Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce at https://newberryspringschamber.com/ or on these social sites:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewberrySpringsChamber
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nbsp_chamberofcommerce/

Car & Driver: https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a15385694/mrs-orcutts-driveway-204-mph-on-a-double-nickel-road-page-1

Geocaching: https://www.geocaching.com/. To get started, create a free geocaching account and download the official Geocaching® app or use a GPS device.

NEXT STEPS

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KEYWORDS

Brian Fisher, Mrs. Orcutt's Homestead, Geocaching, NSEDA, Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce, Route 66 Centennial, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview

#BrianFisher #MrsOrcuttsHomestead #Geocaching #NSEDA #NewberrySpringsChamberofCommerce #Route66Centennial #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview

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Welcome to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! Today, we're chatting with Dr. Trish O'Kane, an environmental educator, action researcher, and author of the inspiring memoir, Birding to Change the World. Trish shares her remarkable journey—from investigative journalism and human rights work in Central America and Alabama, to finding a new path in environmental education after Hurricane Katrina, and discovering the healing power of birds and nature.

You'll hear how Trish connects birding, environmental justice, and social activism, and how her passion grew into teaching programs that pair college students with elementary school children for outdoor adventures and nature exploration. She opens up about the challenges of our world today, the importance of fostering hope, and the profound impact that spending time in nature can have on both kids and adults.

DISCUSSION

00:00 "Outdoor Adventures with Trish O'Kane"

05:39 Journalism, Justice, and Human Rights

09:25 Connections Across Places and Journeys

12:32 "Kids, Birds, Planet-Saving Program"

16:56 "Hope Amidst Harsh Realities"

20:35 "Thanksgiving Tragedy in Vermont"

21:20 "Kids' Cards of Hope"

28:58 "Finding Home After Katrina."

31:43 "Finding Healing in Nature."

34:35 "Birding Guide Inspired by Book."

39:29 "Reflecting on Career Inspirations."

40:57 Park, Kids, Solutions & Change

49:06 "Birding Tales & Life Change."

LEARN MORE

To learn more about Trish and her work, and download your copy of the Art of Flocking Action Guide, visit her website at https://trishokane.org/.

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KEYWORDS

Trish O'Kane, Birding to Change the World, Wild Warner Park, Madison Wisconsin, Destination Madison, Howard Fox, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview

#TrishOKane #BirdingtoChangetheWorld #WildWarnerPark #madisonwisconsin #destinationmadison #HowardFox #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview

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On this episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series, we're continuing our series with Newberry Springs, California, a unique community nestled along the historic Route 66.

We're speaking with locals and community leaders like Ton Forbes, an energetic force behind the Route 66 Centennial planning committee. Ton shares her journey from Orange County to becoming an integral part of Newberry Springs, describing what drew her to this vibrant, nature-filled desert town and how she became involved with its iconic landmarks, such as the Baghdad Cafe and the local garden club. Ton highlights the nostalgia, history, and small-town spirit that make Newberry Springs a must-visit, especially as the town gears up for an unforgettable centennial celebration of the “Mother Road.” Get ready to step back in time and experience the charm and community spirit that define Newberry Springs and Route 66.

DISCUSSION

00:00 "Route 66 Centennial Spotlight"

04:35 "The Bagdad Cafe Movie, The Barn, Garden Club, and the Community"

06:58 "Planning the May 2nd Birthday Bash, the Time-Traveling Car Show."

09:42 Come Celebrate the Route 66 Centennial

LEARN MORE

To learn about Newberry Springs, CA, the Route 66 Big Birthday Bash, the Garden Club, and much more, visit the Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce at https://newberryspringschamber.com/ or on these social sites:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewberrySpringsChamber
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nbsp_chamberofcommerce/

To learn more about NSEDA, visit their website at https://www.nseda.net/.

The Mother Road e-Newsletter: https://motherroadnewsletter.com/newsletter/

The World Famous Historical Bagdad Café: https://bagdad-cafe-usa.com/

IMDB | Bagdad Café: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0095801/

NEXT STEPS

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KEYWORDS

Ton Forbes, The Barn, The Bagdad Cafe, Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce, NSEDA, Route 66 Centennial, Wonder Hussy, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview

#TonForbes #TheBarn #TheBagdadCafe #NewberrySpringsChamberofCommerce #NSEDA #Route66Centennial #WonderHussy #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview

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