Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Monday, September 12, 2011

Motel Monday: Sleepy Bear is Everywhere

This week's Motel Monday theme centers around the Travelodge chain (outside of California). These dozen motels represent the chain's presence in various states and one province. Most of these cards feature Sleepy Bear, the official "brand ambassador" for the Travelodge chain. Here's some early history of Sleepy Bear from the Travelodge.com website:

History

1954
Travelodge Hotels, Inc. introduced its mascot Sleepy Bear to North America. The lovable bear was also incorporated into all in-room items. Sleepy Bear quickly became an icon to children of all ages and a welcome face for travelers seeking affordable and comfortable lodging.

1955
The Sleepy Bear plush stuffed toy was born. Dressed in a white night shirt and cap with “Sleepy” on the brim, the toy was a winner with guests of all ages.

1956
The first Sleepy Bear walk-around costume was created and worn by individuals in parades, celebrations, and grand openings of new hotels.

1973
Sleepy Bear, one of the most recognizable logos in the lodging industry, was transformed from a sleepy-eyed brown bear to a warm, smiling bear for a softer, cuddlier look.

Travelodge - South Bend, Indiana


Travelodge - Reno, Nevada


Travelodge - Lancaster, Pennsylvania


Travelodge - Anchorage, Alaska


Travelodge - Vancouver, British Columbia


Travelodge - Portland, Oregon


Travelodge - Yakima, Washington


Travelodge - Tacoma, Washington


Travelodge - Ames, Iowa


Travelodge - Tupelo, Mississippi


Travelodge - Tucumcari, New Mexico


Tampa East Travelodge - Tampa, Florida


Travelodge - Lakeland, Florida


Travelodge - Toledo, Ohio

Sunday, September 11, 2011

Chicago Tribune TV Week - September 14-20, 1963

Barn Dance Swings to TV with Ruth and Edith Johnson in this issue of Chicago Tribune's TV Week magazine for September 14-20, 1963. In these 28 pages, you can see what was on television in the Chicago area in the Fall of 1963.

Chicago Tribune TV Week - September 14 - 20, 1963




























Friday, September 2, 2011

Bagels and Yox


This is a flier for the number one entertainment for the American-Jewish people, "Bagels and Yox." This particular run was to open on Sunday, May 11, 1952 at the Blackstone Theatre in Chicago, Illinois.

I can't find too much information on this particular run of the show. I did find a 1951 review of the play in the New York Times theater section. The Blackstone Theatre is still around but is now known as the Merle Reskin Theatre.