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The Travel Trolley wire reports
The number of scheduled domestic and international passengers on U.S. airlines and on flights to and from the United States on foreign airlines declined in 2009 by 5.3 percent from 2008, dropping to 769.6 million, the Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) reported.
BTS, a part of DOT’s Research and Innovative Technology Administration, reported that U.S. airlines carried 5.3 percent fewer total system passengers in 2009 than in 2008.
U.S. airlines carried 5.2 percent fewer domestic passengers in 2009 and 6.3 percent fewer international passengers than in 2008. Passengers to and from the United States on foreign carriers decreased 4.8 percent from 2008.
Total passengers on U.S. airlines and on foreign airlines to and from the United States declined from the same month in 2008 in 10 of the 12 months. The largest decline of 12.4 percent took place in February.
During the first six months of 2009, the number of passengers declined 9.0 percent from the same period in 2008. During the last six months, the decline was 1.4 percent.
Southwest Airlines carried more total system passengers in 2009 than any other U.S. airline for the third consecutive year. American Airlines carried more international passengers to and from the United States in 2009 than any other U.S. or foreign carrier for the 20th consecutive year.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Saturday, March 27, 2010
'Big Red Apple' reminds of bygone era
But, by the 1920s, apples were becoming an important crop in parts of the state, including Cornelia. Because of the crop diversification, Habersham County skirted the devastating effects of the boll weevil’s destruction of the cotton crop.
So, in 1925, Southern Railway donated to the city a monument dedicated to the fruit that helped save their community. The seven-foot-tall, 5,200-pound apple statue was molded in Winchester, Va., and sits atop an eight-foot-tall concrete pedestal next to the train depot in the center of town.
The apple was dedicated on June 4, 1926, and a number of dignitaries, including U.S. Sen. Walter F. George attended the event.
By the mid 1930s, the apple crop nearly spelled doom from the city, but the statue remained as a reminder of the city’s past.
Like the apple crop, the passenger train soon faded from the city that once saw 16 passenger trains per day. But, as was the case with the apple statue, the train depot is a constant reminder of a bygone era.
Cornelia – “Home of the Big Red Apple,” as it is known – is located along Ga. Highway 365 about 75 miles north of Atlanta.
'54 Columns': Urban art on display in Atlanta
ATLANTA – The concrete columns at the intersection of Glen Iris Drive and Highland Avenue isn’t another partially finished residential community. No, this is public art.
“54 Columns” – a collection of, yes, 54 columns ranging from 10 to 20 feet tall – was created in 1999 by Sol LeWitt, a minimalist artist. The columns – known to some as “Ghetto Stonehenge” – are supposed to resemble Atlanta’s skyline.
The art project was commissioned by the Fulton County Arts Council. In 2007, the Atlanta City Council designated the 210-acre Freedom Park, which is home to “54 Columns,” as an Atlanta Public Art Project.
LeWitt’s works can be seen in a number of museums nationwide, including Atlanta’s High Museum of Art. The Connecticut-born LeWitt, who died in 2007 at the age of 78, “helped establish Conceptualism and Minimalism as dominant movements of the postwar era,” The New York Times wrote in his April 9, 2007, obituary.
However, not everyone has treated “54 Columns” with respect and reverence over the years. In 2005, a vandal painted one of the columns pink, according to a Sept. 28, 2005, report in Creative Loafing.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Ga. Senate passes pickup truck seat belt loophole fix
DeFeo.biz News Wire
ATLANTA – Pickup truck drivers: Be sure to buckle up. Soon, that may be.
The state Senate this week voted 45-2 in favor of a bill to close a loophole in the state law that exempts the driver and front-seat passenger of off-road and pickup trucks from the state’s seat belt requirement. The measure now heads to the state House.
“This is an exciting day in the Senate,” state Sen. Don Thomas, R-Dalton, said in a news release. “We have once again voted to save lives and money by passing this legislation. With new leadership in the House, I am confident this bill will end up on the governor’s desk.”
More than two-thirds of pickup truck deaths can be attributed to people not wearing seat belts, officials say. By closing the loophole, Georgia might pay less in medical costs for those injured in such crashes and could see additional federal incentive grants from the Traffic Safety Institute, officials said.
The state Senate has previously passed similar legislation, but it stalled in the state House.
ATLANTA – Pickup truck drivers: Be sure to buckle up. Soon, that may be.
The state Senate this week voted 45-2 in favor of a bill to close a loophole in the state law that exempts the driver and front-seat passenger of off-road and pickup trucks from the state’s seat belt requirement. The measure now heads to the state House.
“This is an exciting day in the Senate,” state Sen. Don Thomas, R-Dalton, said in a news release. “We have once again voted to save lives and money by passing this legislation. With new leadership in the House, I am confident this bill will end up on the governor’s desk.”
More than two-thirds of pickup truck deaths can be attributed to people not wearing seat belts, officials say. By closing the loophole, Georgia might pay less in medical costs for those injured in such crashes and could see additional federal incentive grants from the Traffic Safety Institute, officials said.
The state Senate has previously passed similar legislation, but it stalled in the state House.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Bill: Slowpokes need to get out of the fast lane
By Todd DeFeo / DeFeo.biz News Wire
ATLANTA – Slow drivers beware. And, keep out of the fast lane.
The state House this week approved a bill that would fine drivers $75 for impeding traffic by remaining in the left lane. The house voted 129-29 in favor of HB 1047, which now heads to the state Senate.
“This is a serious problem on our roads right now, and this seeks to help with that problem,” The Atlanta Journal-Constitution quoted Rep. Mark Butler, R-Carrollton, as saying. “This is a safety issue. This is a traffic issue.”
Under the proposed law, a motorist cannot remain in the left lane of a road with two or more lanes if he or she is driving less than the posted speed limit and another, faster car approaches from behind. There is an exception for motorists preparing to make a left-hand turn.
“Driving in the correct lanes, at the correct speeds, has the possible effect of reducing crashes and increasing the vehicle-carrying capacity of our highways,” Bob Dallas, director of the Governor's Office of Highway Safety, told Morris News Service.
If approved by the Senate and signed by Gov. Sonny Perdue, the law takes effect July 1.
Officials say the law is not intended to promote speeding, News/Talk 750 WSB reported.
Along those lines, the state’s “Super Speeder Law” went into effect Jan. 1. Under the law, anyone convicted of driving 75 miles per hour or more on a two-lane road or 85 miles per hour or more on any road in the state faces will be fined an additional $200 on top of local fines that may be leveled.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Reader’s Digest rates Ga. roads No. 13, I-285 no fun
Caboose Chronicle.com
ATLANTA – Georgia has the 13th best roads in the nation – and 2nd best in the Southeast – according to a report by Reader’s Digest magazine.
The state is also home the 20th most deadly roads, a report posted to the magazine’s Web site indicates.
Interstate 285, which circles Atlanta, also made the magazine’s list of bad roads.
“We call it the Watermelon 500 because people drive like lunatics on it,” the magazine quotes a trucker from Rushville, Ill., as saying. “It’s like a giant NASCAR race going around Atlanta.”
Another trucker – from Charleston, West Virginia – quips the thoroughfare is “four or five lanes of traffic in each direction, with traffic 24 hours a day.”
“People drive like they’re on the motor speedway. There’s always so much congestion, and people are constantly cutting in and out,” he told the magazine. “The worst part is where 85 and a bunch of local highways come in: Spaghetti Junction. There are multiple ramps at different levels, and so many people getting on and off, it’s just very confusing. You have one little accident and it shuts everything down.”
Kansas’ roads topped the magazine’s list of best roads. However, when it comes to bad roads, Louisiana takes the cake. In fact, the magazine named “Louisiana roads in general” to the list of The 7 Worst Roads in America.
“The local paper published a picture of a guy who, to make a point, set a mattress down inside a pothole and was taking a nap,” the magazine quoted a New Orleans traffic reporter as saying.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Ga. Senate votes to ban texting while driving
ATLANTA – Texters beware.
The state Senate on Thursday passed a bill that would ban people from texting while driving.
“As legislators we do our best everyday to make decisions that will positively impact the lives of Georgians for years to come,” state Sen. Jack Murphy, R-Cumming, said in a news release. “This bill will not only make Georgia road’s safer, it will save lives.”
Anyone convicted of texting while driving would face a fine of up to $150. And, any teens charged twice with texting while driving will be restricted to a class D license for one year, which prohibits who can ride with the teen and what hours he or she can drive.
An estimated 6,000 people were killed in 2008 in crashes involving a “distracted or inattentive driver,” according to new data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). More than 500,000 people were also injured in such crashes, the data shows.
The state Senate on Thursday passed a bill that would ban people from texting while driving.
“As legislators we do our best everyday to make decisions that will positively impact the lives of Georgians for years to come,” state Sen. Jack Murphy, R-Cumming, said in a news release. “This bill will not only make Georgia road’s safer, it will save lives.”
Anyone convicted of texting while driving would face a fine of up to $150. And, any teens charged twice with texting while driving will be restricted to a class D license for one year, which prohibits who can ride with the teen and what hours he or she can drive.
An estimated 6,000 people were killed in 2008 in crashes involving a “distracted or inattentive driver,” according to new data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). More than 500,000 people were also injured in such crashes, the data shows.
Airlines boast higher on-time performance rate in January
The Travel Trolley wire reports
The nation's largest airlines had a higher on-time performance rate this past January than in both January 2009 and December 2009, according to the Air Travel Consumer Report released by the U.S. Department of Transportation.
According to information filed with the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, the 18 carriers reporting on-time performance recorded an overall on-time arrival rate of 78.7 percent in January, better than both January 2009's 77.0 percent and December 2009's 72.0 percent.
The consumer report includes BTS data on the number of domestic flights canceled by the reporting carriers. In January, the carriers canceled 2.5 percent of their scheduled domestic flights, higher than the 2.3 percent rate recorded in January 2009 but lower than December 2009's rate of 2.8.
In January, the carriers filing on-time performance data reported that .004 percent of their scheduled flights had tarmac delays of three hours or more, a lower rate than both January 2009's .0162 percent and December 2009's .007 percent.
There were two flights with tarmac delays of four hours or more in January.
The nation's largest airlines had a higher on-time performance rate this past January than in both January 2009 and December 2009, according to the Air Travel Consumer Report released by the U.S. Department of Transportation.
According to information filed with the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, the 18 carriers reporting on-time performance recorded an overall on-time arrival rate of 78.7 percent in January, better than both January 2009's 77.0 percent and December 2009's 72.0 percent.
The consumer report includes BTS data on the number of domestic flights canceled by the reporting carriers. In January, the carriers canceled 2.5 percent of their scheduled domestic flights, higher than the 2.3 percent rate recorded in January 2009 but lower than December 2009's rate of 2.8.
In January, the carriers filing on-time performance data reported that .004 percent of their scheduled flights had tarmac delays of three hours or more, a lower rate than both January 2009's .0162 percent and December 2009's .007 percent.
There were two flights with tarmac delays of four hours or more in January.
FAA proposes penalties against American Airlines
Special to The Travel Trolley
The Federal Aviation Administration has proposed civil penalties totaling $787,500 against American Airlines for maintenance violations.
The FAA alleges American Airlines mechanics in April 2008 diagnosed problems with one of two Central Air Data Computers (CADCs) on a McDonnell Douglas MD-82 jetliner. Instead of replacing the computer, mechanics improperly deferred this maintenance under the airline's DC-9 Minimum Equipment List (MEL) by noting that the auto-throttles were inoperative. The MEL, however, does not allow deferral of an inoperative CADC.
The airline subsequently flew the plane on 10 passenger flights before the computer was replaced. During this time, flight crews were led to believe that both computers were working properly.
The FAA found also alleges that in March 2008, American failed to correctly follow an Airworthiness Directive involving the inspection of rudder components on certain Boeing 757 aircraft. As a result, four 757s operated by American Airlines did not comply with the requirements of the Airworthiness Directive.
The FAA alleges that after American was advised of the situation, the company said it would cease flying the planes until they were repaired. However, during the following two days, the airline flew two of the planes on a total of three passenger flights. The FAA is seeking a penalty of $75,000 in this case.
In the final case, the FAA alleges that in May 2009, American's mechanics returned an MD-82 aircraft to service, even though several steps of a scheduled B-check maintenance visit had not been checked off as completed. The airline also replaced a landing gear door without noting it in the aircraft's logbook.
The aircraft was operated on two passenger flights with the logbook error. An FAA inspection of the aircraft revealed several discrepancies in the tail section, including loose screws, a missing nut plate and a right hand elevator torque tube binding and making noise. As a result of these discrepancies, the FAA proposes a civil penalty of $87,500.
American Airlines has 30 days from the receipt of the FAA's civil penalty letter to respond to the agency.
The Federal Aviation Administration has proposed civil penalties totaling $787,500 against American Airlines for maintenance violations.
The FAA alleges American Airlines mechanics in April 2008 diagnosed problems with one of two Central Air Data Computers (CADCs) on a McDonnell Douglas MD-82 jetliner. Instead of replacing the computer, mechanics improperly deferred this maintenance under the airline's DC-9 Minimum Equipment List (MEL) by noting that the auto-throttles were inoperative. The MEL, however, does not allow deferral of an inoperative CADC.
The airline subsequently flew the plane on 10 passenger flights before the computer was replaced. During this time, flight crews were led to believe that both computers were working properly.
The FAA found also alleges that in March 2008, American failed to correctly follow an Airworthiness Directive involving the inspection of rudder components on certain Boeing 757 aircraft. As a result, four 757s operated by American Airlines did not comply with the requirements of the Airworthiness Directive.
The FAA alleges that after American was advised of the situation, the company said it would cease flying the planes until they were repaired. However, during the following two days, the airline flew two of the planes on a total of three passenger flights. The FAA is seeking a penalty of $75,000 in this case.
In the final case, the FAA alleges that in May 2009, American's mechanics returned an MD-82 aircraft to service, even though several steps of a scheduled B-check maintenance visit had not been checked off as completed. The airline also replaced a landing gear door without noting it in the aircraft's logbook.
The aircraft was operated on two passenger flights with the logbook error. An FAA inspection of the aircraft revealed several discrepancies in the tail section, including loose screws, a missing nut plate and a right hand elevator torque tube binding and making noise. As a result of these discrepancies, the FAA proposes a civil penalty of $87,500.
American Airlines has 30 days from the receipt of the FAA's civil penalty letter to respond to the agency.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Manchester provides railfans optimal location for viewing trains
MANCHESTER, Ga. – Many people driving through this part of Georgia are heading to Warm Springs and FDR's Little White House.
But avid railfans know that Manchester is a prime location to watch trains.
It’s perhaps no surprise that the city built a viewing platform overlooking the tracks. After all, the railroad helped shape the city into what it is today.
In the first decade of the 20th century, the Atlanta, Birmingham, Atlantic Railroad decided Manchester would lie at the junction of lines from Atlanta, Birmingham and Waycross. The lines still merge in Manchester, but the trains are today operated by CSX.
The city of about 5,000 built the viewing platform about 10 years ago. The observation deck has a built-in radio scanner, which allows visitors to hear railroad-radio traffic.
On average, more than three dozen trains pass through the city every day. The city also holds an annual Railroad Days festival in October.
IF YOU GO: From Atlanta, take Interstate 85 south to Georgia Highway 100. Continue south on Georgia Highway 41 to Manchester. From Atlanta, Manchester is a roughly two-hour drive.
Retracing Fess Parker's steps in Georgia
ATLANTA – Fess Parker, a long-time actor known for portraying famous historical figures turned California winemaker, died today. He was 85.
Parker is perhaps best-remembered for playing both Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone on television shows based on the real life historical figures. But, one of his often-overlooked roles has a strong connection to Georgia.
Parker portrayed James J. Andrews in Walt Disney’s 1956 movie “The Great Locomotive Chase.” The movie retells the story of the Andrews Raid of April 12, 1862, in which Union soldiers stole a locomotive planning to destroy the Western & Atlantic Railroad between Atlanta and Chattanooga, Tenn. Their plan failed.
The movie was filmed on the Tallulah Falls Railway in 1955. Disney is said to have selected the railroad – which ran between Cornelia, Ga., and Franklin, N.C., and ceased operation in March 1961 – because it more closely resembled the Western & Atlantic Railroad as it did in 1862 than the actual railroad itself did at the time of filming.
While the railroad is no longer in operation and few remnants of its former existence remain, the Tallulah Falls Railroad museum in Rabun Gap, Ga., features a number of exhibits about the railroad and a two-foot gauge railroad. A picture of Parker during the filming of “The Great Locomotive Chase” is among the museum’s collection of historic pictures on display.
After he retired from show business, Parker opened Fess Parker Winery in Santa Ynez, Calif. The winery served as the fictitious Frass Canyon winery in the 2004 movie “Sideways.”
IF YOU GO: The Tallulah Falls Railroad Museum is located in Rabun Gap along U.S. Highway 441 North. From Atlanta, take Interstate 85 north to Interstate 985 and continue north on Ga. Highway 23, which eventually also becomes U.S. Highway 441. Rabun Gap is about 2.5 hours north of Atlanta.
Parker is perhaps best-remembered for playing both Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone on television shows based on the real life historical figures. But, one of his often-overlooked roles has a strong connection to Georgia.
Parker portrayed James J. Andrews in Walt Disney’s 1956 movie “The Great Locomotive Chase.” The movie retells the story of the Andrews Raid of April 12, 1862, in which Union soldiers stole a locomotive planning to destroy the Western & Atlantic Railroad between Atlanta and Chattanooga, Tenn. Their plan failed.
The movie was filmed on the Tallulah Falls Railway in 1955. Disney is said to have selected the railroad – which ran between Cornelia, Ga., and Franklin, N.C., and ceased operation in March 1961 – because it more closely resembled the Western & Atlantic Railroad as it did in 1862 than the actual railroad itself did at the time of filming.
While the railroad is no longer in operation and few remnants of its former existence remain, the Tallulah Falls Railroad museum in Rabun Gap, Ga., features a number of exhibits about the railroad and a two-foot gauge railroad. A picture of Parker during the filming of “The Great Locomotive Chase” is among the museum’s collection of historic pictures on display.
After he retired from show business, Parker opened Fess Parker Winery in Santa Ynez, Calif. The winery served as the fictitious Frass Canyon winery in the 2004 movie “Sideways.”
IF YOU GO: The Tallulah Falls Railroad Museum is located in Rabun Gap along U.S. Highway 441 North. From Atlanta, take Interstate 85 north to Interstate 985 and continue north on Ga. Highway 23, which eventually also becomes U.S. Highway 441. Rabun Gap is about 2.5 hours north of Atlanta.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Delta to resume service between JFK and Haiti
Special to The Travel Trolley
Delta Air Lines will resume service between New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Port-au-Prince, Haiti, three times weekly beginning April 3, 2010.
Service from JFK to Port-au-Prince will expand to five times weekly starting June 10.
"As part of a long-standing commitment to the Caribbean basin, Delta looks forward to once again providing multiple travel options that not only connect the tri-state area to Haiti, but will assist in ensuring more access to this region for rebuilding and humanitarian efforts," said James Sarvis, Delta's vice president – International Airport Customer Service.
Delta's previous service between New York-JFK and Haiti started June 20, 2009, but was suspended following the tragic earthquake that struck the country Jan. 12, 2010. As part of its philanthropic efforts, Delta continues to contribute financial and in-kind support to Haiti relief efforts through multiple organizations including CARE, Yele Haiti, the American Red Cross and other organizations.
Delta Air Lines will resume service between New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Port-au-Prince, Haiti, three times weekly beginning April 3, 2010.
Service from JFK to Port-au-Prince will expand to five times weekly starting June 10.
"As part of a long-standing commitment to the Caribbean basin, Delta looks forward to once again providing multiple travel options that not only connect the tri-state area to Haiti, but will assist in ensuring more access to this region for rebuilding and humanitarian efforts," said James Sarvis, Delta's vice president – International Airport Customer Service.
Delta's previous service between New York-JFK and Haiti started June 20, 2009, but was suspended following the tragic earthquake that struck the country Jan. 12, 2010. As part of its philanthropic efforts, Delta continues to contribute financial and in-kind support to Haiti relief efforts through multiple organizations including CARE, Yele Haiti, the American Red Cross and other organizations.
Monday, March 15, 2010
'World's Largest Peanut' sits along I-75 in South Georgia
By Todd DeFeo
ASHBURN, Ga. – Georgia may be known as “The Peach State,” but peanuts are really the state’s cash crop.
In fact, about 50 percent of the nation’s peanuts come from Georgia. The state legislature in 1995 made the peanut the state’s official crop.
So, it’s no surprise that Turner County – located in the co-called “Peanut Belt” – in 1975 erected a monument to the peanut. After all, Turner County is nicknamed “The Peanut Capital of the World” since it is home to a Golden Peanut Co. shelling plant – said to be the largest peanut processing plant in the world.
The 20-foot-tall monument, built atop a crown on a brick base, was made the state’s official peanut monument in 1998. The slogan painted on the side of the monument reads: “Georgia 1st in Peanuts.”
The monument, located along Interstate 75, is dedicated to Nora Lawrence Smith, a member of Georgia Journalism’s Hall of Fame, according to a plaque on the side of the monument. Interestingly, until the boll weevil struck in the 1920s, cotton was the county’s major crop; peanuts have been a major crop for the county since the Great Depression.
The city is also famous for its Crime and Punishment Museum and the Fire Ant Festival held annually.
IF YOU GO: From Atlanta, take Interstate 75 south to Exit 82.
ASHBURN, Ga. – Georgia may be known as “The Peach State,” but peanuts are really the state’s cash crop.
In fact, about 50 percent of the nation’s peanuts come from Georgia. The state legislature in 1995 made the peanut the state’s official crop.
So, it’s no surprise that Turner County – located in the co-called “Peanut Belt” – in 1975 erected a monument to the peanut. After all, Turner County is nicknamed “The Peanut Capital of the World” since it is home to a Golden Peanut Co. shelling plant – said to be the largest peanut processing plant in the world.
The 20-foot-tall monument, built atop a crown on a brick base, was made the state’s official peanut monument in 1998. The slogan painted on the side of the monument reads: “Georgia 1st in Peanuts.”
The monument, located along Interstate 75, is dedicated to Nora Lawrence Smith, a member of Georgia Journalism’s Hall of Fame, according to a plaque on the side of the monument. Interestingly, until the boll weevil struck in the 1920s, cotton was the county’s major crop; peanuts have been a major crop for the county since the Great Depression.
The city is also famous for its Crime and Punishment Museum and the Fire Ant Festival held annually.
IF YOU GO: From Atlanta, take Interstate 75 south to Exit 82.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Sherman slept here: Spending time in Uncle Billy's boyhood home
By Todd DeFeo
LANCASTER, Ohio – It’s hard to imagine a young William Tecumseh Sherman spending time in this room 180 years ago.
The room – and the entire house for that matter – is simple and relatively unassuming, but it was here that the famous Civil War general, his brother – John Sherman, a Republican senator remembered for the Sherman Anti-Trust Act – and their nine brothers and sisters spent their formative years.
Sherman’s father, Charles, built the four-room, wood-frame house in 1811. Within five years, four more rooms were added to the structure to make room for the 11 children and four adults who lived here. The brick front and associated rooms were built onto the house in 1870.
“I have no doubt that he was in the first instance attracted to Lancaster by the natural beauty of its scenery, and the charms of its already established society,” the General later wrote in his memoirs about his father.
The house – now The Sherman House Museum – sits along what is today East Main Street – a bustling thoroughfare through the seat of Fairfield County, roughly 30 miles southeast of Columbus.
The younger Sherman only lived in the house for nine years. After his father died in 1829, he moved in with the family of Thomas Ewing, a prominent member of the Whig Party, senator from Ohio and first Secretary of the Interior. Sherman – affectionately called Uncle Billy by the troops who served under him – went on to become one of the Civil War’s most famous figures.
Today, the house’s original rooms have been restored to how they appeared during Gen. Sherman’s time in the house. The rooms feature a number of exhibits and memorabilia, including furniture Sherman owned when he lived in New York after he retired, a bust of the general sculpted in 1888 by Augustus Saint-Gauden and a re-creation of Sherman’s Civil War field tent.
Perhaps the most compelling piece in the museum is a 150-year-old painting that was stolen from the museum in 1982 and recovered in 2007. The painting is said to depict Sherman as he appeared during his time as the first superintendent of the Louisiana State Seminary of Learning & Military Academy – known today as Louisiana State University (LSU).
IF YOU GO: From Atlanta, Columbus is easily accessible, making it a great vacation destination. There are about 10 direct flights daily with both Delta Air Lines and AirTran Airways offering direct service between Hartsfield Jackson International Airport and Port Columbus Airport.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
NHTSA: Traffic fatalities for 2009 reach record low
The U.S. Department of Transportation announced that the number of overall traffic fatalities reported at the end of 2009 reached the lowest level since 1954, declining for the 15th consecutive quarter. According to early projections, the fatality rate, which takes into account the number of miles traveled, reached the lowest level ever recorded.
“This is exciting news, but there are still far too many people dying in traffic accidents,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said in a news release. “Drivers need to keep their hands on the steering wheel and their focus on the road in order to stay safe.”
The projected fatality data for 2009 places the highway death count at 33,963, a drop of 8.9 percent as compared to the 37,261 deaths reported in 2008. The fatality rate for 2009 declined to the lowest on record, to 1.16 fatalities per 100 million Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) down from 1.25 fatalities per 100 million VMT in 2008.
“This continuing decline in highway deaths is encouraging, but our work is far from over,” said National Highway Traffic Safety Administrator David Strickland. “We want to see those numbers drop further. We will not stop as long as there are still lives lost on our nation’s highways. We must continue our efforts to ensure seat belts are always used and stay focused on reducing distracted and impaired driving.”
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration attributes the decline in 2009 to a combination of factors that include, high visibility campaigns like Click It or Ticket to increase seat belt use, and Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest which helps with the enforcement of state laws to prevent drunk driving and distracted driving. In addition, the decline is also the result of safer roads, safer vehicles and motorists driving less.
“This is exciting news, but there are still far too many people dying in traffic accidents,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said in a news release. “Drivers need to keep their hands on the steering wheel and their focus on the road in order to stay safe.”
The projected fatality data for 2009 places the highway death count at 33,963, a drop of 8.9 percent as compared to the 37,261 deaths reported in 2008. The fatality rate for 2009 declined to the lowest on record, to 1.16 fatalities per 100 million Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) down from 1.25 fatalities per 100 million VMT in 2008.
“This continuing decline in highway deaths is encouraging, but our work is far from over,” said National Highway Traffic Safety Administrator David Strickland. “We want to see those numbers drop further. We will not stop as long as there are still lives lost on our nation’s highways. We must continue our efforts to ensure seat belts are always used and stay focused on reducing distracted and impaired driving.”
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration attributes the decline in 2009 to a combination of factors that include, high visibility campaigns like Click It or Ticket to increase seat belt use, and Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest which helps with the enforcement of state laws to prevent drunk driving and distracted driving. In addition, the decline is also the result of safer roads, safer vehicles and motorists driving less.
Smyrna museum features hyper-local exhibits
The Travel Trolley
SMYRNA, Ga. – Belmont Hills is not a tourist attraction. Today, it’s not much of anything other than a pile of rubble.
But, what was once one of the largest shopping centers when it opened in 1950 is an important landmark – if that’s the right word – in the development of Smyrna. Given the urban sprawl that is Metro Atlanta, it’s easy to overlook the histories of the dozens of cities scattered throughout the region.
But that’s where the Smyrna Museum comes in. Since it officially opened on April 25, 1999, the Smyrna Museum is dedicated to keeping alive the stories that make the Jonquil city unique – from images of the city’s past to artifacts from important events in history.
Located in a replica of the city’s railroad depot that was build in 1910 and razed in 1959, the museum is home to thousands of photographs, a number of exhibits and other displays, the museum is also home to a number of genealogical research materials.
While admission is free, the museum, which is operated by volunteers, does accept donations. For more information, log onto www.smyrnahistory.org.
SMYRNA, Ga. – Belmont Hills is not a tourist attraction. Today, it’s not much of anything other than a pile of rubble.
But, what was once one of the largest shopping centers when it opened in 1950 is an important landmark – if that’s the right word – in the development of Smyrna. Given the urban sprawl that is Metro Atlanta, it’s easy to overlook the histories of the dozens of cities scattered throughout the region.
But that’s where the Smyrna Museum comes in. Since it officially opened on April 25, 1999, the Smyrna Museum is dedicated to keeping alive the stories that make the Jonquil city unique – from images of the city’s past to artifacts from important events in history.
Located in a replica of the city’s railroad depot that was build in 1910 and razed in 1959, the museum is home to thousands of photographs, a number of exhibits and other displays, the museum is also home to a number of genealogical research materials.
While admission is free, the museum, which is operated by volunteers, does accept donations. For more information, log onto www.smyrnahistory.org.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Survey: Americans seek air travel security
PRNewswire via The Travel Trolley
According to new America THINKS survey results, Americans are clamoring most for aviation infrastructure improvements that will make them feel safer.
"As our aviation infrastructure priorities are debated and future funding questioned on Capitol Hill, it's crucial to look at what matters most to the nation's air travelers," said Paul Yarossi, president of HNTB Holdings Ltd., which commissioned the survey "Clearly, the majority of Americans say safety and security is of utmost importance to them."
More than six in ten (62 percent) Americans say they care most about improvements to either in-flight or pre-flight safety, rather than overall convenience (21 percent) or sustainability (12 percent).
"The challenge for those who design and operate airports is creating the highest level of security and convenience possible," said Yarossi, who also serves as chairman of HNTB's Aviation services.
Legislation reauthorizing the Federal Aviation Administration and related funding priorities for the nation's aviation infrastructure has been pending since 2007.
According to new America THINKS survey results, Americans are clamoring most for aviation infrastructure improvements that will make them feel safer.
"As our aviation infrastructure priorities are debated and future funding questioned on Capitol Hill, it's crucial to look at what matters most to the nation's air travelers," said Paul Yarossi, president of HNTB Holdings Ltd., which commissioned the survey "Clearly, the majority of Americans say safety and security is of utmost importance to them."
More than six in ten (62 percent) Americans say they care most about improvements to either in-flight or pre-flight safety, rather than overall convenience (21 percent) or sustainability (12 percent).
"The challenge for those who design and operate airports is creating the highest level of security and convenience possible," said Yarossi, who also serves as chairman of HNTB's Aviation services.
Legislation reauthorizing the Federal Aviation Administration and related funding priorities for the nation's aviation infrastructure has been pending since 2007.
Obama nominates retired Army Maj. Gen. to TSA post
The Travel Trolley
President Obama said he plans to nominate retired Army Maj. Gen. Robert A. Harding to head the Transportation Security Administration.
"I am confident that Bob's talent and expertise will make him a tremendous asset in our ongoing efforts to bolster security and screening measures at our airports," Obama said. "I can think of no one more qualified than Bob to take on this important job, and I look forward to working with him in the months and years ahead."
Harding spent more than 35 years working in the intelligence community in both the military and the private sector. Harding served as CEO of Harding Security Associates (HSA), a company he founded in 2003 and sold in July 2009.
HSA's workforce, of more than 400 professionals, provide subject matter expertise and strategic security solutions to U.S. government agencies in the Intelligence and Defense communities, the White House said in a news release.
"We are pleased to learn of the president's intent to nominate Major General Harding to be TSA assistant secretary," the Air Transport Association of America said in a statement. "We look forward to working with him to enhance our nation's aviation security."
President Obama said he plans to nominate retired Army Maj. Gen. Robert A. Harding to head the Transportation Security Administration.
"I am confident that Bob's talent and expertise will make him a tremendous asset in our ongoing efforts to bolster security and screening measures at our airports," Obama said. "I can think of no one more qualified than Bob to take on this important job, and I look forward to working with him in the months and years ahead."
Harding spent more than 35 years working in the intelligence community in both the military and the private sector. Harding served as CEO of Harding Security Associates (HSA), a company he founded in 2003 and sold in July 2009.
HSA's workforce, of more than 400 professionals, provide subject matter expertise and strategic security solutions to U.S. government agencies in the Intelligence and Defense communities, the White House said in a news release.
"We are pleased to learn of the president's intent to nominate Major General Harding to be TSA assistant secretary," the Air Transport Association of America said in a statement. "We look forward to working with him to enhance our nation's aviation security."
Monday, March 8, 2010
American Eagle launches nonstop jet service between Dallas and Augusta, Ga.
The Travel Trolley wire reports
American Eagle Airlines will begin nonstop jet service between Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Augusta Regional Airport (AGS) in Augusta, Ga., beginning June 10.
Eagle will operate the service with 50-seat Embraer ERJ-145 jets.
"We are thrilled that American Eagle has chosen to serve the Augusta Regional Airport by adding nonstop service to Dallas/Fort Worth," Augusta Aviation Chairman Karlton Howard said in a news release. "This will provide travelers from the Central Savannah River Area with convenient connections from Augusta to the American Airlines global network, through its largest hub."
American Eagle Airlines will begin nonstop jet service between Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Augusta Regional Airport (AGS) in Augusta, Ga., beginning June 10.
Eagle will operate the service with 50-seat Embraer ERJ-145 jets.
"We are thrilled that American Eagle has chosen to serve the Augusta Regional Airport by adding nonstop service to Dallas/Fort Worth," Augusta Aviation Chairman Karlton Howard said in a news release. "This will provide travelers from the Central Savannah River Area with convenient connections from Augusta to the American Airlines global network, through its largest hub."
Hotels.com study shows the average price of hotel rooms down 14 percent in the U.S.
Special to The Travel Trolley
Hotels.com unveiled its 2009 Hotel Price Index, the definitive annual report on hotel prices paid around the world.
The index shows hotel prices in the U.S. fell 14 percent during the last half of 2009 compared to rates in the same time period in 2008. Hotels.com attributes the falling prices in North America to the economic slowdown and the subsequent reduced demand for rooms.
With 2009 being the year of the travel deal, some cities did see a rise in prices paid as a result of the cause to currency movements, but also with travelers spending more for a little more luxury. The gap in price between 3, 4, and 5 star hotels narrowed in 2009 meaning travelers could spend less to get more. 2010 promises to be another great year for the travel deal and value.
The HPI also found there was a slowdown in price cuts, potentially showing a leveling off of prices for 2010. Prices dropped 16 percent year-over-year in Q1, 17 percent in Q2, 14 percent in Q3, and finally down to 7 percent in Q4. In fact, for the first time since the HPI has been released, US hotel prices are at the level they were in 2004, dramatically falling from the peak prices seen in 2007.
"2009 proved to be a great year for consumers looking for rooms at reasonable rates, especially in cities that are major tourist attractions such as New York, where prices dropped nearly 25 percent," Scott Booker, vice president, global retail, Hotels.com, said in a news release. "Despite signs that prices of hotel rooms are leveling off, consumers can be certain that they'll always get the best deal possible on Hotels.com, thanks to our Price Match Guarantee, welcomerewards loyalty program and best in class promotions and deals."
Hotels.com unveiled its 2009 Hotel Price Index, the definitive annual report on hotel prices paid around the world.
The index shows hotel prices in the U.S. fell 14 percent during the last half of 2009 compared to rates in the same time period in 2008. Hotels.com attributes the falling prices in North America to the economic slowdown and the subsequent reduced demand for rooms.
With 2009 being the year of the travel deal, some cities did see a rise in prices paid as a result of the cause to currency movements, but also with travelers spending more for a little more luxury. The gap in price between 3, 4, and 5 star hotels narrowed in 2009 meaning travelers could spend less to get more. 2010 promises to be another great year for the travel deal and value.
The HPI also found there was a slowdown in price cuts, potentially showing a leveling off of prices for 2010. Prices dropped 16 percent year-over-year in Q1, 17 percent in Q2, 14 percent in Q3, and finally down to 7 percent in Q4. In fact, for the first time since the HPI has been released, US hotel prices are at the level they were in 2004, dramatically falling from the peak prices seen in 2007.
"2009 proved to be a great year for consumers looking for rooms at reasonable rates, especially in cities that are major tourist attractions such as New York, where prices dropped nearly 25 percent," Scott Booker, vice president, global retail, Hotels.com, said in a news release. "Despite signs that prices of hotel rooms are leveling off, consumers can be certain that they'll always get the best deal possible on Hotels.com, thanks to our Price Match Guarantee, welcomerewards loyalty program and best in class promotions and deals."
Obama signs Travel Promotion Act into law
The Travel Trolley
President Obama has signed into law the first "national travel promotion and communications program," which is aimed at attracting more international travelers to the U.S.
The Travel Promotion Act of 2009 is to be funded through "private sector contributions" and $10 "user fees" paid by international visitors. The Act does not rely on American taxpayer dollars and would result in a $400 million Travel Promotion Fund, proponents say.
"By signing the Travel Promotion Act, President Obama has acted to support the power of travel to serve as an economic stimulant, job generator and diplomatic tool," Roger Dow, president & CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, said in a news release. "This program will create tens of thousands of American jobs and help reverse negative perceptions about travel to the United States."
Opponents say the legislation could actually hurt tourism because of the increased costs to visit the country. Supporters disagree.
"Today, America extends a heartfelt 'Welcome' to the rest of the world. The Travel Promotion Act will enhance our nation's status as a premiere destination in the competitive global tourism market and ensure job creation," James Rasulo, Senior EVP and CFO of The Walt Disney Co. said in a news release. "It is a great example of the innovative solutions government and industry can create when they work together toward a common goal."
President Obama has signed into law the first "national travel promotion and communications program," which is aimed at attracting more international travelers to the U.S.
The Travel Promotion Act of 2009 is to be funded through "private sector contributions" and $10 "user fees" paid by international visitors. The Act does not rely on American taxpayer dollars and would result in a $400 million Travel Promotion Fund, proponents say.
"By signing the Travel Promotion Act, President Obama has acted to support the power of travel to serve as an economic stimulant, job generator and diplomatic tool," Roger Dow, president & CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, said in a news release. "This program will create tens of thousands of American jobs and help reverse negative perceptions about travel to the United States."
Opponents say the legislation could actually hurt tourism because of the increased costs to visit the country. Supporters disagree.
"Today, America extends a heartfelt 'Welcome' to the rest of the world. The Travel Promotion Act will enhance our nation's status as a premiere destination in the competitive global tourism market and ensure job creation," James Rasulo, Senior EVP and CFO of The Walt Disney Co. said in a news release. "It is a great example of the innovative solutions government and industry can create when they work together toward a common goal."
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Review: Delightful 'Guthrie Family Rides Again' hits Atlanta
ATLANTA – Woody Guthrie’s impact and musical legacy is immeasurable. While he helped shape generations of folk singers, his legacy is coming to life in a whole new way, thanks to his son Arlo’s latest tour.
The tour, which rolled through town on Friday, features more than a dozen members of his family on stage performing a combination of new and old songs, with contributions from each generation on stage. The show also featured a handful of songs from other artists who have added music to a number of previously unpublished Woody Guthrie lyrics.
The evening began when Arlo’s daughter, Sarah Lee Guthrie, and her husband, Johnny Irion, performed their song, “When the Lilacs are in Bloom.” Arlo took the stage a few songs later and opened his set with “Gypsy Davy,” a traditional song adapted by Woody Guthrie and also included on Arlo’s 1973 album “Last of the Brooklyn Cowboys.”
While Arlo did perform some of his better known songs throughout the evening – such as “The City of New Orleans” and “Coming into Los Angeles” – the show was far from a rundown of his greatest hits. The group performed a number of Woody’s better known songs, including “Pretty Boy Floyd” and “This Land is Your Land.”
Throughout the night, the entire family took turns performing songs. The entire show had a casual feel to it, and it’s obvious that Arlo and company truly enjoy playing together. While the group was clearly familiar with its entire repertoire, it didn’t sound overly rehearsed; in fact, it appeared that the group wasn’t working of a concrete set list.
Woody was born in 1912 and died in 1967 after a lengthy battle with Huntington’s Disease. He profoundly influenced a generation of folk singers, including Bob Dylan, who helped bring about the 1960s folk revolution.
The tour, which rolled through town on Friday, features more than a dozen members of his family on stage performing a combination of new and old songs, with contributions from each generation on stage. The show also featured a handful of songs from other artists who have added music to a number of previously unpublished Woody Guthrie lyrics.
The evening began when Arlo’s daughter, Sarah Lee Guthrie, and her husband, Johnny Irion, performed their song, “When the Lilacs are in Bloom.” Arlo took the stage a few songs later and opened his set with “Gypsy Davy,” a traditional song adapted by Woody Guthrie and also included on Arlo’s 1973 album “Last of the Brooklyn Cowboys.”
While Arlo did perform some of his better known songs throughout the evening – such as “The City of New Orleans” and “Coming into Los Angeles” – the show was far from a rundown of his greatest hits. The group performed a number of Woody’s better known songs, including “Pretty Boy Floyd” and “This Land is Your Land.”
Throughout the night, the entire family took turns performing songs. The entire show had a casual feel to it, and it’s obvious that Arlo and company truly enjoy playing together. While the group was clearly familiar with its entire repertoire, it didn’t sound overly rehearsed; in fact, it appeared that the group wasn’t working of a concrete set list.
Woody was born in 1912 and died in 1967 after a lengthy battle with Huntington’s Disease. He profoundly influenced a generation of folk singers, including Bob Dylan, who helped bring about the 1960s folk revolution.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Pentagon Metrorail station, Pentagon Transit Center closed
The Pentagon Metrorail station and Pentagon Transit Center are closed while Pentagon officials investigate a shooting outside the station, as well as suspicious packages also outside the station. Trains are passing through the rail station without stopping to pick up or discharge passengers.
Buses that usually pick up and drop off riders at the Pentagon Transit Center are now picking up and dropping off passengers at the sidewalk near the Pentagon City Metrorail station at South Hayes Street in Arlington.
Customers who usually exit the Pentagon Metrorail station to catch a bus should instead exit at the Pentagon City Metrorail station and look for their bus along South Hayes Street. Customers who usually exit their bus at the Pentagon to catch a train should exit their bus at Pentagon City Metrorail station.
The Pentagon Metrorail station has two banks of entryway escalators that lead to the underground station, with one of the Pentagon building's entrances located between the rail station's entrances. The preliminary report is that the incident took place along the sidewalk adjacent to the station and building entrances.
The incident began at approximately 6:35 p.m. tonight, Thursday, March 4.
Buses that usually pick up and drop off riders at the Pentagon Transit Center are now picking up and dropping off passengers at the sidewalk near the Pentagon City Metrorail station at South Hayes Street in Arlington.
Customers who usually exit the Pentagon Metrorail station to catch a bus should instead exit at the Pentagon City Metrorail station and look for their bus along South Hayes Street. Customers who usually exit their bus at the Pentagon to catch a train should exit their bus at Pentagon City Metrorail station.
The Pentagon Metrorail station has two banks of entryway escalators that lead to the underground station, with one of the Pentagon building's entrances located between the rail station's entrances. The preliminary report is that the incident took place along the sidewalk adjacent to the station and building entrances.
The incident began at approximately 6:35 p.m. tonight, Thursday, March 4.
FAA places two on administrative leave after children give pilots instructions
The Travel Trolley wire reports
The Federal Aviation Administration said it placed two employees at John F. Kennedy Airport Tower on administrative leave after "a child was permitted to talk with pilots on an air traffic control frequency."
"This lapse in judgment not only violated FAA's own policies, but common sense standards for professional conduct. These kinds of distractions are totally unacceptable," FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt said in a news release. "We have an incredible team of professionals who safely control our nation's skies every single day. This kind of behavior does not reflect the true caliber of our workforce."
The two JFK Tower employees, a supervisor and an air traffic controller, are on administrative leave pending the outcome of an official FAA investigation into the incident which is already underway. The incident happened last month, the FAA said.
In addition, all unofficial visits to FAA air traffic control operational areas, such as towers and radar rooms, will be suspended during the investigation. The FAA Administrator has directed a team to conduct a full-scale review of air traffic control policies and procedures related to facility visitors.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Tennessee's Dunbar Cave
By Todd DeFeo
CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – By the 1930s and 1940s, Dunbar Cave was a popular destination.
Not so much because of its natural splendor, but because of the musical acts that performed at the cave entrance. Roy Acuff, who eventually purchased the cave, was among the acts to bring his show to the area.
The 8-mile-long Dunbar Cave was formed millions of years ago and has always attracted people. During digs at the site, archeologists found Paleo-Indian artifacts buried near the cave entrance, and in 2005, Indian glyphs were discovered on the cave walls.
Over the years, the cave has had a number of interesting uses. During the Mexican-American War, saltpeter was mined for use in gunpowder. But the cave’s most frequent use has often revolved around tourism.
Leading up to the Civil War, developers built cabins on the site, according to The Tennessee Encyclopedia of History and Culture, and a two-story hotel later appeared after J. A. Tate purchased the land. The hotel lasted until the 1950s and a pool at the site was buried a decade later. In 1973, the state purchased the land to create a state park.
The 110-acre park today features a number of outdoor activities, including fishing and cave tours. For information, call (931) 648-5526.
IF YOU GO: From Atlanta, Clarksville, Tenn., is an easy weekend destination – a roughly 4.5 hour drive. Take Interstate 75 north to Interstate 24 west to Exit 11.
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