Warners Hit With New Superman Lawsuit

Above, the Superman statue in Metropolis, Illinois. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Here we go again!

A new Superman lawsuit has been filed, this time by the estate of Superman co-creator Joseph Shuster.

Reuters reported:

Jan 31 (Reuters) - The estate of one of Superman's co-creators has filed a copyright lawsuit in a U.S. court against Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD.O), opens new tab ahead of the release of its new movie, "Superman," part of a planned reboot of the DC Comics superhero film franchise.

The lawsuit, opens new tab was filed on Friday in federal court in New York City by the estate of Superman illustrator Joseph Shuster, who created the famous superhero along with writer Jerome Siegel.

The lawsuit noted that Shuster and Siegel had licensed their rights to the character to Detective Comics, the predecessor of DC Comics, now a subsidiary of Warner. The lawsuit claims that under British law, Shuster's rights reverted to his estate in 2017, 25 years after his death.

The estate accused Warner of unlawfully failing to pay royalties to use Superman in Britain, Canada, Australia and other countries outside the United States.

The new Superman movie, directed by James Gunn and starring David Corenswet, is set to be released in theaters in July. The new litigation could complicate the international distribution of the film. It marks the latest salvo in a long-running legal battle over the rights to the character.

Shuster's estate is seeking monetary damages and a court order blocking Warner from depicting Superman without a license. 

To read more, go here. 

Jim Hambrick, R.I.P.

Above, Jim Hambrick in his younger days. Photo from the Super Museum Facebook page.

Sad news arrived before I left for Christmas in Lake Havasu. 

Super Museum founder Jim Hambrick passed away Sunday at age 70.

According to WPSD:

METROPOLIS, Ill. — Longtime Superman collector and founder of the Superman Museum in Metropolis, Jim Hambrick died on Sunday, Dec. 22, at 70 years old. But his family and community members say his lasting impact will survive for decades to come.

Hambrick died from heart complications after suffering a heart attack in 2016. His daughter, Morgan Siebert, said since his heart attack in 2016, Hambrick grew weaker. However, she said running the museum improved his morale, and it gave him purpose to keep it open for travelers and the Metropolis community. 

Hambrick grew up in Los Angeles and moved to Metropolis in March 1993. His passion for Superman and collecting started when he received his first Superman lunch box at 5-years-old. Siebert said over the years, he became interested in buying comic books and collectibles. When Hambrick reached 19-years-old, he was known as the world's famous Superman collector.

Hambrick's favorite portrayal of Superman is by actor George Reeves.

Above, the Super Museum in 2016. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

I visited the Super Museum in 2016 when I attended Noel Neill's memorial service in Metropolis, Illinois.

Above, the Kirk Alyn autographed photo I obtained at Hambrick's
exhibit at Chapman College. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

I first met Hambrick around 1982 when he had a traveling Superman memorabilia show, which included an authentic George Reeves Superman costume, at Chapman College (now Chapman University) in Orange County, California. With Hambrick was the original live-action Superman actor, Kirk Alyn. I obtained Alyn's autograph at the exhibit. This was before his move to Metropolis and the founding of the Super Museum.

Above, a George Reeves color Superman costume
at the Super Museum. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

His passing is a big loss to Superman fandom. Thanks to his family, the museum will continue.

To read more, go here.

Superman Statue Gets New Santa Hat

The Super Museum in Metropolis, Illinois posted the following on November 30 on Facebook:

This reminded me of my trip to Metropolis in November 2016 to attend Noel Neill's Celebration of Life services.

Upon arrival in town, the first thing (besides the Super Museum) I saw was the Superman statue in the town square. I took photos of the statue with my Winnebago in the foreground. This was a day or so before the Santa hat was placed on it.

I took a few photos of it and had another tourist take one of me at the statue during my time there.

Alcohol Consumption In State Parks

Above, Fort Massac State Park on the Ohio River near Metropolis, Illinois. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Over the years, I generally camp at private RV parks and campgrounds such as KOA Kampgrounds or dry camp with E Clampus Vitus (an historical drinking society or a drinking historical society, take your pick) in BLM areas. Having alcoholic beverages have never been an issue.

RV Travel has posted that some state parks have different rules pertaining to alcoholic beverages. It depends upon the state. I can only think of four state parks I've camped in: Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, Malibu Creek State Park, Navajo Lake State Park and Fort Massac State Park (near Metropolis, Illinois). Having alcoholic beverages in any of them was never an issue, especially at the Bothe-Napa Valley State Park that is nestled among the wineries.

The RV Travel article begins with:

Many RVers enjoy camping in local state parks. However, when it comes to bringing alcohol to state parks, the rules can vary widely. Much depends on the state and the specific park you’re visiting.

In general

Generally, state parks across the U.S. allow some form of alcohol, but with specific restrictions in place. Here’s an overview of what to expect, along with some essential guidelines to keep your outdoor experience enjoyable and respectful to both nature and other visitors.

 To read more, go here.

RV Laws You Should Know

Above, camping at Fort Massac State Park in Metropolis, Illinois. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Over the past few years, I have traveled in my motorhome into several states. During these inter-state travels, I have not encountered any problems concerning RV-specific laws. That doesn't mean they don't exist.

RV Life has posted an article on 11 RV laws that we RVers should be aware of. 

They begin it with:

When it comes to the law, what you don’t know can get you into a heap trouble. Ignorance is no excuse. With that being said, RV-related laws tend to vary greatly from state to state. So much so that it can be hard to keep up with exactly what the law is sometimes, especially as we travel through multiple states. It’s pretty safe to say that no RV traveler wants to unwittingly attract the attention of police or highway patrol officers. But not to worry, we’ve compiled a list of state road laws that are commonly broken by RVers.

To read what those laws are, go here.

Cross-Country RV Trips A Thing of The Past?

Above, Fort Massac State Park Campground in Metropolis, Illinois. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The closest thing to a cross-country RV trip was when I drove from California to Metropolis, Illinois to attend Noel Neill's (Lois Lane of the Adventures of Superman) memorial service.

It was quite an adventure for me as I got to see many states and attractions (Abraham Lincoln's home, tomb and Presidential Library in Springfield, Illinois for example). The trip lasted three weeks.

A new article in RV Travel questions whether or not cross-country RV travel is becoming a thing of the past due to fuel and campground costs.

They start it with:

I have long dreamed of the day my wife and I could depart on a cross-country RV trip. Now that we are retired and able to travel more, I question if cross-country RV trips are still viable, or will remain just a dream.

Cross-country RV trips have long been a beloved way for individuals and families to explore the diverse landscapes and cultures of a country. The freedom of the open road, the comfort of a home on wheels, and the sense of adventure have drawn countless enthusiasts to embark on these journeys. However, the future of cross-country RV trips is facing challenges that may make them a thing of the past. In this article, we will delve into the changing dynamics of cross-country RV travel and explore how escalating fuel expenses, rising campground fees and the erosion of spontaneity are reshaping this cherished tradition. 

To read more, go here. 

How To RV Across America

Above, at the Double J Campground near Springfield, Illinois. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

When I went cross-country from Los Angeles to Metropolis, Illnois for Noel Neill's memorial service in 2016, I made reservations at some RV parks along the way. That only scratched the surface in planning the trip.

I got plenty of maps and tour books from the Automobile Club. Before leaving Los Angeles, I made sure my refrigerator was fully stocked. What was planned for a two-week trip, ended up stretching into three weeks. I had one mishap in St. Louis, Missouri that necessitated the purchase of two new tires. That cut into the funds and I had to wait out the Veterans Day holiday in Topeka, Kansas before I could replenish my cash and proceed on. Despite that, it was a good trip.

RV Life has posted an article on how to RV across America.

It begins with:

So you finally have the time to RV across America? The sights you will see are going to create so many lasting memories! Before you leave, here are 12 things you need to know to avoid making memories of RV catastrophes. As a full-time RVer myself, I’ve learned that many cross country RVing problems can be avoided with a little planning. 

The Top 10 Things to Know Before RVing Across America

Most of your RV trip planning can happen before you get on the road.  Here is where you want to do a little research. My list of ten things to know before taking a cross-country RV road trip can make your planning easier.

 To read more, go here.

Fall Is Better — For Travel

Above, camping at Fort Massac in Metropolis, Illinois. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Is fall a better time to travel?

That question arises every so often. I actually prefer autumn to summer. There are a number of benefits to traveling in the fall. The primary one for me is less crowds.

Albuquerque station KOAT has posted an article with the position that fall is better.

They begin it with:

Sure, an escape to the beach or cooler mountain air or the arctic air-conditioning of a museum comes not a moment too soon when summer really starts to heat up.

But if you can wait until the season winds down, the rewards can be significant – both in terms of savings and experience. And after the summer the world has had – with record heat, uncomfortably warm ocean water, devastating wildfires, epic crowds and high prices – the relative calm of traveling in September and October will be right on time for many travelers.

Is fall a better time to travel than summer?

To read more, go here. 

Superman Loses Head In Windstorm

Superman is invulnerable to bullets, fire, artillery and many other things, but apparently wind isn't one of them.

The Metropolis Illinois News posted the following on Facebook:

Above, the Man of Steel sans head. Photo by Metropolis Illinois News.

*Breaking*

It is confirmed that the wind today blew off Superman's head.

Maintenance crews are asking the general public to avoid the area, as they work fervently into the night to reattach.

 Here's the stature before its decapitation:

Above, the statue in November 2016. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

NOTE: This story is possibly a fake one. A couple posted a video of themselves in front of the statue and the head was on it.

Remembering Noel Neill

Above, a "Superman Week" group shot with Noel Neill (in the Superman shirt) with yours
 truly standing behind her in July 2001. Photo courtesy of Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich.

Actress Noel Neill (1920 - 2016) has the sole distinction of playing Daily Planet reporter Lois Lane to two different actors playing the Man of Steel, Kirk Alyn and George Reeves. I first met her in July 2001 when we held the "Superman Week" ceremony with the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors celebrating 50 years of television's Adventures of Superman.

Do You Remember has an article on Neill that remembers her contributions to the live-action Superman mythos. 

It begins with:

Actress Noel Neill, who was born on November 25, 1920, and would have been celebrating her 103rd birthday this year, holds a unique place in the history of Superman: she is the only actress to have played reporter Lois Lane opposite two different actors portraying the Man of Steel, Kirk Alyn and George Reeves.

A successful model in her teens, she was reportedly the second most popular pin-up girl for soldiers in World War II, right behind Betty Grable. She spent a number of years starring in B-features for Monogram Pictures. In 1945 producer Sam Katzman cast her in his series of “Teen Agers” musical comedies as aggressive high school newspaper reporter Betty Rogers. As such, she’d already proven herself to Katzman when he decided to turn the comic book superhero Superman into the star of a pair of movie serials — the weekly chapter plays that fans would go to the theatres to check out each Saturday — Superman (1948) and Atom Man vs. Superman (1950) and needed someone to play reporter Lois Lane.

Above, the Noel Neill "Lois Lane" statue in Metropolis, Illinois. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

To read more, go here. 

Gene LeBell As "Mr. Kryptonite"

Above, Gene LeBell's "Mr. Kryptonite" costume on display at the
 Super Museum in Metropolis, Illinois. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Gene LeBell, who was nicknamed the "Godfather of Grappling", was a friend of Superman actor George Reeves. It has been reported in various wrestling and martial arts websites that LeBell passed away at age 89 yesterday.

Above, George Reeves, Noel Neill and Gene LeBell in 1957 on the fair tour.

In 1957, Reeves organized a tour to different fairs and LeBell would perform with Reeves and actress Noel Neill. He appeared as "Mr. Kryptonite" to Reeves's Superman and Neill's Lois Lane in a skit during each appearance.

LeBell's "Mr. Kryptonite" costume is currently on display at the Super Museum in Metropolis, Illinois as is one of Reeves's Superman costumes.

Above, Gene LeBell and yours truly at the Superman Celebration in 2014.

I took a trip to Metropolis in 2016 to attend the memorial service for Noel Neill and toured the Super Museum. While at the museum, I took the accompanying photo of LeBell's "Mr. Kryptonie" costume.

I met Gene LeBell at the Superman Celebration luncheon at the Beverly Garland Hotel in Studio City and we were seated at the same table during the luncheon. He was a very nice and funny guy.

RV Travel: Preparing For An Extended Trip

Above, at the Superman statue in Metropolis, Illinois.

The longest RV road trip I've ever taken was six years ago when I took a three-week trip to Metropolis, Illinois for actress Noel Neill's celebration of life services.

During that trip, I also visited: Memphis, Tennessee; Springfield, Illinois; Topeka, Kansas; Abilene, Kansas; Monument Valley and Grand Canyon National Park.

RV Travel posted an article on preparing for extended RV trips. How extended? Over six months.

It begins it with:

Getting ready to hit the road for an extended period, say anything more than a few weeks, takes different planning and preparation than a simple weekend camping trip.

After living much of my life on the road, this usually annual preparation to leave the comforts of home behind has become second nature. But if you’re new to RV full-timing (or most-timing) there are a lot of moving parts to keep track of.

Some tasks you can do well in advance. Others need to be dealt with at the last minute.

As I am currently planning to start wandering for the next six months or so, I thought I would share my process.

I keep a running to-do list and packing list that I start a month or more before leaving.

This master list, which you should add to anytime you think of something, will keep you organized and make sure you don’t forget anything important.

To read more, go here. 

Chapman College and the Super Museum

Above, the Kirk Alyn autograph I obtained at Chapman College in the 1980s. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Before Jim Hambrick opened the Super Museum in Metropolis, Illinois, in 1993, he had a "traveling Superman exhibit" where he would display some items in his vast Superman collection at different venues. According to Roadside America, Hambrick started collecting Superman memorabilia in 1959. 

By chance, I saw a blurb in a newspaper (this was around 1984, give or take, and before the Internet) that said a collection of Superman memorabilia would be shown at Chapman College (now Chapman University) in Orange County, California.

Above, the Super Museum in Metropolis, Illinois in 2016. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Since I had nothing going on at the time, I headed down to Chapman College to check it out. As reported, Hambrick had some interesting Superman memorabilia, including a moth-eaten (in some spots) wool Superman color costume worn by George Reeves.

At the exhibit, the first screen Superman, Kirk Alyn was there to meet fans and sign autographs. Alyn had a cameo appearance (with the first screen Lois Lane, Noel Neill) in the first Christopher Reeve Superman movie. I obtained a photo of him as Superman and had him autograph it for me. 

Above, a George Reeves color Superman costume on
display at the Super Museum Photo by Armand Vaquer.

In 2016, I went to Metropolis, Illinois, touted as the "Hometown of Superman" to attend the memorial service for Noel Neill. I stayed at Fort Massac State Park campground, which is on the outskirts of town on the Ohio River. 

While in Metropolis, I toured the Super Museum Hambrick opened at Superman Square, which features a giant statue of the Man of Steel. It is an impressive museum and one that is worth a trek to. It has just about every Superman relic and collectible one could image along with Supergirl and others. 

Above, yours truly with the Superman statue in Superman Square in Metropolis, Illinois.

If anyone is even remotely interested in Superman or of television, movie or comic book history, the Super Museum is a great place to visit. It also has a gift shop.

The official website for the Super Museum is accessible by going here.

Abilene, Kansas To Get New RV Park With Horse Stalls

Above, The Beast at Covered Wagon RV Park in Abilene, Kansas. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Back in November 2016, during my trip to Metropolis, Ilinois, I stopped in Abilene, Kansas to see the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library.

I stayed at the Covered Wagon RV Park, which was a mile or two from the Library. The word rustic does not even begin to describe it. It had hook-ups, but not much else in amenities. But, it was good enough to catch a night's sleep.

Now, a new RV park is in the works and, according to an article in Modern Campground, is slated to open soon. It is the Windy Trails Premier RV Park. Along with campsites, it will also have horse stalls for those travelers with horses.

According to the article:

With a vision to provide drivers and travelers a rest stop for a night, Abilene (Kansas) native David Strong sought to develop Windy Trails Premier RV Park. After going through a lengthy process, the park will be opening soon.

“I just see the people when I’m driving, there [are] no places to park, there [are] no places to pull over,” Strong said. “With the new government fuels for the DOT (department of transportation), truck drivers can only drive so many hours and they have to pull over and all the rest areas are full throughout the whole country.”

Windy Trails will feature ten pull-thru RV sites, three shower/storm shelter facilities, ten camping sites, a fenced kids play area, a fenced dog play area, covered secure RV/boat storage, eight overnight horse stalls, and a laundry facility. 

To read more, go here. 

Merry Christmas!

 

Above, the Superman statue in the Metropolis, Illinois town square. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Why Rush It? You're Retired!

Above, during my 2026 Metropolis, Illinois trip, my first night's
stop was at a KOA in Williams, Arizona. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The nice thing about retirement is that while traveling in the RV, one isn't in a hurry to get somewhere. At least they shouldn't be.

Retirees can take their time and enjoy the sights along the way. An added benefit is flexibility, where detours can be made and if one particularly likes an RV park so much that can add an extra night or two to enjoy it.

Above, flexibility allowed me to check out places such as Meteor Crater in Arizona. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Generally, when I am driving somewhere, my rule of thumb is to get an early start (I'm an early riser anyway) and get to the the day's overnight stop in the afternoon. There's one thing I don't like doing, and that is to set up camp after dark. By getting to the stop while the sun's still out, one can enjoy the rest and sit outside (weather permitting) with a cold drink or even coffee and relax. It is refreshing and make the next day's drive easier.

Above, after a day's drive, time to relax at the KOA in Springfield, Missouri. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

I prefer a day's drive in the 300 to 450 mile range. I've gone over 500 miles in a day, but I found I am worn out by the end of the day. I'm retired, so why push it?

Above, flexibility allowed me to visit the Dwight D. Eisenhower
Presidential Library in Abilene, Kansas. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Naturally, everyone's different. Some like to keep their day's drive under 300 miles and some don't mind driving 500 miles. It's whatever one feels comfortable with. 

Metropolis Five Years Ago

Above, The Beast at the Superman statue in Metropolis, Illinois. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

It is hard to believe that it was five years ago today that I reached Metropolis, Illinois to attend the memorial service/celebration of life for Noel Neill.

This was the longest trip to date (and it still holds that record for me) I have taken anywhere. It totaled three weeks long. I drove from L.A. to Metropolis in The Beast and it was this trip that I became enchanted with the Gallup, New Mexico area. I returned a year later and ended up buying my ranchette.

From Metropolis, I headed down to Memphis, Tennessee to visit Graceland and Sun Studio and then back to Illinois to see the Lincoln attractions.

From there, I went to Topeka, Kansas and met with Greg Smith and then to Abilene, Kansas to see the Dwight D. Eisenhower Library.

After that, I went to Monument Valley and the Grand Canyon before heading back home.

That was quite a trip.

USA Today: Why Fall Is The Best Time To Go Camping

Above, camping at the Fort Massac campground near Metropolis, Illinois. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The summer will be over in a month, but that doesn't mean that camping season is over. On the contrary, autumn is the best time to pitch a tent or head out in an RV. Fall camping is one of my favorite pastimes. 

At least, that's what a new article from USA Today says.

Here's a snippet:

If you hate heat and mosquitos, had a hard time reserving a campsite, or couldn't quite find the time to get away this summer, don't worry. The optimal time to go camping is actually after Labor Day. 

From Maine to Minnesota, South Dakota to Arizona and beyond, the weeks following Labor Day (the unofficial end of summer) are a delightful time to pitch a tent or park your RV. Summer’s searing temperatures are cooling. Humidity is drying. Mosquitos, black flies and other buzzing and biting critters become less of a torment.

To read more, go here. 

Explore Along Route 66 In Tulsa, Oklahoma

Above, The Beast at the Elk City/Clinton KOA on Route 66 in Elk City, Oklahoma. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Five years ago, I took a three-week vacation trip to Metropolis, Illinois (the home of Superman) to attend a memorial service for actress Noel Neill.

The route generally took me along Interstate 40 until I reached Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to get on Interstate 44 to Tulsa. Before heading to Tulsa, I spent a night at the Elk City/Clinton (Oklahoma) KOA Kampground which is on Route 66 in Elk City. There's a Route 66 museum in Clinton, Oklahoma, but I left the area before it opened.

Historic Route 66 cuts through Tulsa and the city is active paying homage to the "Mother Road" with historic and new attractions. 

Travel Awaits has an article on the Route 66 things to see and do in Tulsa.  

They begin it with:

Whether you use a nickname — like the Mother Road or Main Street of America — or refer to it by its given name, Route 66 is arguably the most famous highway in the United States. One of the nation’s first interstate roads, Route 66 arced southward through eight states and crossed three time zones connecting Chicago and Santa Monica.

In Oklahoma, Route 66 enters the Sooner State in its upper northeastern corner near Joplin, Missouri. Stretching more than 400 miles, the route divides the Cherokee Nation from the Osage Reservation as it races through the heavily wooded Ozark mountains toward tallgrass prairies and the Texas Panhandle, connecting Tulsa and Oklahoma City. But Oklahoma is more than roughly the midpoint of the journey along Route 66. It is also where Oklahoma businessman Cy Avery (also known as the Father of Route 66) conjured up the concept of the Main Street of America. 

While many sites along Route 66 have long been abandoned, Tulsa has worked hard to restore historical gems as well as to build new sites that pay homage to the Mother Road. These are the can’t-miss places you’ll want to explore along Route 66 in Tulsa.

To see what Tulsa has to offer on Route 66, go here. 

Advantages of RV Travel

Above, Fort Massac State Park in Metropolis, Illinois. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Thinking about "diving into" the RV lifestyle? 

There's a few things to consider before making a purchase. Renting an RV first may help in the decision-making process.

There are advantages to RV traveling and the Miami County Republic has them listed.

They begin with:

Individuals who are approaching retirement or those who already have said goodbye to the working world may find they are ready to make some life changes. Travel is something many older adults enjoy when they have much more free time to see the sights.

Recreational vehicles are great ways for people to get out and about. An RV is more than just a way to get around; for many people it becomes a lifestyle. According to the RV Industry Association, about 10 million American households own RVs.

There have been more RVs on the road in recent years, and there are now more facilities to accommodate them. RVIA says there are now roughly 18,000 campgrounds around the country, and certain facilities are pushing to improve and upgrade campgrounds in national parks and on federal lands.

Individuals considering if the RV lifestyle is for them can refer to this list of RVing benefits.

To see the list, go here.