centennial

Last year, the Commission and the state Senate passed resolutions recognizing the centennial anniversary of the extirpation of the California grizzly, with the Senate declaring 2024 the “Year of the Grizzly.”

"We are convinced that the centennial celebration will be unique because 100 years are celebrated only once."

The younger Okura and company have been upgrading infrastructure steadily and would like to reopen the motel — perhaps even get the six cottages open in time for the Route 66 centennial in 2026.

Its centennial was celebrated with a grand event, honouring its role in the town's history.

“It’s a significant historical event that needs to have a light shined on it,” said Kim Stringfellow, an artist, educator and writer who is organizing the centennial event.