Get your pics on Route 66

Interactive sign offers locals, travelers photo opportunities near historic road
 
Paula Rodgers, district governor of the Missouri Lions Club, stands ready to cut the ribbon at the unveiling of the new Route 66 sign at the intersection of Highway 39 and Highway 96 in Lawrence County last Friday. The project was supported by the Miller Lions Club and was attended by State Representative Mitch Boggs, who spoke at the event on Nov. 14. He said that a landmark like this is important for a county that is often underappreciated.
“... It’s easy to overlook a county like ours [when] you don’t have Springfield or Joplin in it,” said Boggs.
The new sign is interactive and is 12-by-10 feet tall. The final cost of the sign itself was $15,500 and was paid for by the Miller Lions Club in addition to the foundation, installation and delivery of the landmark. According to Mt. Vernon Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Brittni Bates, the Lions Club will be fully reimbursed for the sign, installation and delivery. Other individuals and groups also contributed to the effort by way of tree trimming, excavation, dirt work, removing rocks and installing lights.
Rodgers said such a structure is important to commemorate the history of the area.
“It gives back to the community and even the people that are not in the community,” said Rodgers. “It gives them something to come and look at and remember history that went through here years ago.”