On Tuesday evening, August 12. famous photographer Hiroshi Hanamura met with former Route 66 Association of Illinois Presidents Frank Lozich, John Miller, current President Cathie Stevanovich, Treasurer Marty Blitstein, charter member Jeff Meyer and active member and volunteer Jeff Geisler as Mr. Hanamura starts a 2 week trip down Route 66.

Hiroshi has traveled extensively on Route 66 in the past and has published books and photographs in Japan about the beloved Mother Road.  Mr. Hiroshi had met Frank Lozich, Jeff Meyer, and others when he was in Illinois in 1993 - in fact he even joined in the Route 66 Association of Illinois Motor Tour that year!!!

The group met at Hall of Fame member "The Chicken Basket" in Willowbrook to celebrate Hiroshi's return to Illinois. A lively discussion of old and new events along the road was enjoyed by all. Hiroshi said he was looking forward to seeing all the new preservation work that has been going on along the road since his last visit. Mr. Hanamura also talked about the possibility of his returning soon to do a photo study of Route 66 in winter.

Hiroshi Hanamura will be traveling, photographing, and renewing old friendships as he makes his way to California on the route he loves best.

Welcome home, Hiroshi, welcome home!