With the 50th anniversary of the interstate highway system, CBS News decided to take a look at its impact on society.

And it’s not been all good, says Columbia University historian Kenneth T. Jackson.

Jackson also says the highway that was supposed to bring us closer together actually pushed us farther apart, as suburbs blossomed, quirky signs for roadside stands disappeared, and American became dependent on cars and fast food.

“We now drive much more,” says Jackson. “We don’t want to walk anymore… it’s helped undermine our sense of community. It really killed the Mom and Pop stores in the United States.”

So driving historic Route 66 is way to re-connect with the people in this country. As CBS reporter Sharyn Alfonsi says:

It’s an America that many Americans have never seen at all.

The story on the page includes a link to a video of an interview with Illinois Route 66 preservationists John and Lenore Weiss, who also confirm that the Mother Road is a way to truly see the country.

The Washington (Mo.) Missourian reports that the new Route 66 Mini Golf is set to open next month in Gray Summit, Mo., on Highway 100, aka Route 66, next to the Diamond Inn Motel.

It’s at the site of a mini-course that closed a few years ago. If you want to learn more about the 18-hole course, e-mail owner Ben Homeyer at bjhomeyer (at) netzero.net

The group of Norwegians who are driving pre-1966 automobiles the entire length of Route 66 is nearing the end of its trip, reports the Big Bear Grizzly of Big Bear, Calif.

The group encountered mechanical problems, difficulty acquiring insurance, and dealt with a hit-and-run in Chicago. But they had a lot of fun, too.

“We’ve had very, very good reception,” said Jon Grasto of Sarpsborg, Norway. “We got the thumbs up from truck drivers and especially elderly people. Our cars are a rembrance of a very nice time, a very nice period in America.”

To check up on the group’s adventures, go to its Web site here.