 Jeremy and Tina Ämick pause for a photo during their stay at Oceans Allure in Cancún. A spontaneous decision to exchange a planned trip to Germany for Mexico proved to be exactly the change of scenery, and attitude, they needed. Courtesy of Jeremy P. Ämick For several months, my wife, Tina, and I had been planning a summer trip to Germany. The itinerary was taking shape, the anticipation was building, and we looked forward to revisiting a country that has long fascinated us. But as the departure date approached, we realized what we truly needed wasn't another busy sightseeing adventure. We needed sunshine, warm ocean breezes, and a chance to simply relax. So, we traded Germany for Cancún. As Jimmy Buffett famously sang in Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes, "If we couldn't laugh we would all go insane." While he celebrated the healing power of tropical destinations, another line perfectly captured our experience: a true "change in latitudes" brought about a dramatic "change in attitudes." Within a day of arriving in Mexico, the pressures of work, deadlines, and everyday responsibilities seemed to melt away beneath the Caribbean sun. Our journey began on an early Wednesday morning with a flight from Columbia Regional Airport to Chicago before continuing south to Cancún. After landing, we boarded a shuttle for the 45-minute ride to Oceans Allure, a relatively new beachfront resort nestled along Mexico's beautiful Caribbean coastline. The first thing that struck us was the heat. Cancún in early July doesn't merely welcome visitors with warm weather but embraces them with tropical intensity. Fortunately, every few steps offered another opportunity to cool off, whether by dipping into one of the resort's pools or enjoying the constant breeze coming off the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. Oceans Allure proved to be everything we had hoped for. The accommodations were comfortable, the grounds beautifully maintained, and the staff consistently friendly and attentive. Meals ranged from casual poolside fare to elegant evening dining, and every day seemed to offer another opportunity to sample caffeinated drinks, tropical fruits, and authentic Mexican cuisine. Perhaps the greatest luxury wasn't found in the restaurants or the pools, however. It was simply having nowhere we had to be. Our days settled into a pleasant rhythm of leisurely breakfasts, walks to the beach, relaxing by the water, reading, and visiting with other vacationers, something that often becomes a casualty of busy schedules back home. It reminded us that sometimes the best vacations aren't built around elaborate itineraries but around the freedom to do very little at all. One unique aspect of our trip was spending America's 250th Independence Day outside the United States. While we were hundreds of miles from home, many of the resort employees surprised us by offering cheerful wishes of "Happy Independence Day." Their thoughtfulness made us feel unexpectedly connected to home while enjoying another country. That evening, we watched an impressive fireworks display launched from a neighboring resort. Against the backdrop of the Caribbean Sea, the colorful explosions reflected across the area, creating a memorable conclusion to the holiday. The festive atmosphere throughout the resort was heightened even further by soccer fever. Guests and employees alike eagerly followed Mexico's national team, and conversations throughout the resort frequently turned to the match against England. Whether gathered around televisions in lounges or discussing the game while serving meals, there was an unmistakable sense of national pride and excitement that added another layer to the vacation experience. As wonderful as our stay had been, Monday eventually arrived, and it was time to head home … or so we thought. Before leaving for the Cancún airport, we discovered our scheduled flight to Chicago had been delayed indefinitely. Like thousands of travelers every summer, we suddenly found ourselves navigating the unpredictable world of airline logistics. Fortunately, our travel agent quickly located another option. Instead of flying through Chicago, we would travel to Charlotte, North Carolina, and connect there for the final leg to Columbia. The flight itself went smoothly, even arriving in Charlotte a few minutes ahead of schedule. Unfortunately, that's where our good fortune ended. Our aircraft remained parked on the runway for more than an hour and a half before passengers were finally allowed to disembark. Later, I learned the delay reflected the interconnected nature of modern air travel. Construction affecting runways in California, fuel-related issues in Boston, and severe weather along portions of the East Coast had combined to create a cascading series of delays that rippled throughout the airline system. By the time we reached the terminal, retrieved our luggage, cleared Customs, rechecked our bags, passed through TSA security once again, and hurried toward our departure gate, our flight to Columbia had already left. The airline did the right thing by providing us with a hotel voucher since the next available flight wouldn't depart until the following evening. There was only one small problem. Our luggage continued its own journey while we began ours without it. After checking into the hotel, we took an Uber to a nearby Walgreens to purchase necessities. Tina then demonstrated the kind of practical thinking that makes travel partnerships successful by ordering fresh clothes from Walmart, which were delivered to our hotel the following morning. Since we unexpectedly found ourselves with an entire day to spend in Charlotte, we decided to make the most of it by visiting the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Neither of us would consider ourselves devoted racing fans, yet we found the museum surprisingly engaging. Interactive exhibits explained the engineering, strategy, and personalities that have shaped stock car racing for generations. One of the highlights was seeing a full-size replica of Lightning McQueen from Pixar's Cars films, which brought out the child in nearly every visitor. As someone with the last name of Amick, I was especially pleased to discover displays recognizing racers Bill Amick and Lyndon Amick for their accomplishments in the sport. While no close family connection has ever been established, it was still enjoyable to see the Amick name prominently represented within one of auto racing's premier museums. Finally, on Tuesday evening, we boarded our flight to Columbia without incident. After landing, it was only about a 40-minute drive home, which was a welcome contrast after nearly two days of unexpected travel complications. Looking back, the delayed flights and missed connections have already become part of the story rather than the frustration. Travel has a way of reminding us that not everything unfolds according to plan. Sometimes the most memorable experiences arise from detours we never anticipated. Most importantly, the trip gave Tina and me something increasingly valuable in today's fast-paced world: uninterrupted time together. We returned to get some rest and reunite with our beloved Miniature Schnauzer, Riker, while carrying memories that extended well beyond beautiful beaches and ocean views. The late Jimmy Buffett had it right. Sometimes all it takes is a change in latitudes to bring about a much-needed change in attitudes. Jeremy P. Ämick is author of the historical compilations “Moments on the Moreau” and “Beyond the Moreau.”  Sunset settles over the entrance fountain at Oceans Allure. Warm Caribbean evenings, tropical breezes and spectacular sunsets became a welcome escape from the routines and responsibilities waiting back home. Courtesy of Jeremy P. Ämick  An airline delay unexpectedly gave Jeremy and Tina an extra day in Charlotte, where they visited the NASCAR Hall of Fame. One highlight was this full-size replica of Lightning McQueen from Pixar's Cars, along with exhibits honoring accomplished racers Bill Amick and Lyndon Amick. Courtesy of Jeremy P. Ämick
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 Randles Court and Coffee Shop are shown during the 1960s, when the property remained a popular stop along U.S. Highway 54. By this time, the complex had evolved beyond its origins as Boots Cottage Court and included a coffee shop, motel accommodations, and a laundromat that served both travelers and local residents. The property continued to benefit from Lake of the Ozarks tourism during the postwar travel boom, helping establish Randles Court as one of Eldon's best-known roadside landmarks. Courtesy of Randles Court Editorial note: This is the final of two articles about the history of Randles Court in Eldon. When Lloyd and Helen Boots divorced in 1947, it marked the end of one chapter in the history of Boots Cottage Court and the beginning of another. On May 15, 1947, the Eldon Advertiser published a legal notice stating that Helen Boots had resumed her maiden name, Helen Randles, by order of the Miller County Circuit Court. Around the same time, the landmark motel along Highway 54 became known as Randles Court. Although Lloyd Boots would remarry, develop additional motel properties, operate a drive-in restaurant in Iowa and eventually settle in Marshall, Missouri, Helen remained in Eldon and continued operating the business they had built together. A 1954 marriage announcement published in the Eldon Advertiser confirmed her status as owner of the property. Reporting on her marriage to Kenneth C. Rains of Grand Island, Nebraska, the newspaper described Helen as "the owner of Randles Court in Eldon which was opened in 1931." The statement reflected more than ownership. It highlighted Helen's role in guiding the motel through the postwar tourism boom while America was changing rapidly. The years following World War II witnessed an explosion in automobile ownership and family vacations. The Lake of the Ozarks continued attracting visitors from across the Midwest, and Highway 54 remained one of the primary routes serving the region. Randles Court benefited from the growth. Travelers heading to the lake found comfortable accommodations, personal service and a familiar roadside landmark. The property evolved beyond the original cottage court and became known for both lodging and dining. The Randles Coffee Shop and Restaurant became a popular stop for travelers and local residents alike. Together, the coffee shop and motel formed a recognizable destination for those entering Eldon from the north on Highway 54. The business prospered during an era when family-owned motor courts dominated American travel. Yet change was inevitable. A fire on Dec. 20, 1962, damaged three units at Randles Court. The blaze was confined primarily to attic areas and several rooms, but the newspaper coverage provided an important glimpse into the property's ownership history. Robert Keasler of Keasler Associates, Inc., told the Eldon Advertiser that his company now owned and managed the court. In previous years, ownership had passed from Helen and Kenneth Rains. In Kenneth Rains' obituary, it was noted that he and Helen moved from Eldon to Springfield in 1964, where they operated the Cloud Drift Motel. The obituary noted that they "formerly had Randles Court here." The years that followed remain somewhat murky. According to Jennifer Hart, there were several owners during roughly the next decade before the property entered what would become one of its longest ownership periods. "My husband's family bought it in 1973," Hart explained. "There were some different owners over about a ten-year period before my husband's aunt and uncle bought it." Those relatives were Chester and Donna Presta. The Prestas arrived in Eldon during a period of significant change in American travel. The interstate highway system was transforming the nation. Chain motels increasingly dominated the lodging industry and independently owned roadside courts were disappearing. Somehow, Randles Court managed to weather these difficult times. The Prestas operated the property for more than four decades, preserving a landmark that had already become part of Eldon's identity. While many similar properties were demolished or modernized beyond recognition, Randles Court retained much of its historic character. But the motel's history was not without challenges. Highway 54 changed dramatically. The two-lane road that once carried a steady stream of tourists past the motel was widened, expanded and rerouted. The roadside attraction that had once depended upon passing motorists no longer occupied the same strategic position it enjoyed during the era of Lloyd Boots and Helen Randles. After Chester Presta died and Donna continued operating the property, the motel remained a familiar landmark along what had become Business 54. When Donna died in 2011, the property was slated to be sold. The next chapter began with a family connection. Jeremy Hart had long been familiar with the property through his relationship to the Prestas. Jennifer Hart had worked with the business and understood both its history and potential. "We bought it in 2017 and it needed a lot of repair and maintenance," Jennifer recalled. The timing could hardly have been worse. Just days before the scheduled closing, a fire destroyed the restaurant building and damaged portions of the motel. Many prospective buyers would have walked away but the Harts moved forward. Rather than viewing the aging property as a liability, they saw an opportunity to preserve one of Missouri's surviving motor courts. Then another disaster struck. In May 2019, a tornado tore through Eldon, damaging the motel, destroying windows, damaging roofs and toppling the iconic neon sign. Repair costs exceeded $200,000. Once again, the Harts refused to give up. Their efforts focused not merely on repairing the property but on preserving its history. One example is found in Room 10, known today as the Jackson Bray Room. Bray worked at the service station that once formed part of the original Boots Cottage Court complex, while his future wife worked in the café. According to Jennifer Hart, the two met while working there, creating a personal connection that remains part of the property's story. The restoration effort continues room by room. "Six rooms are completely restored and operational and restored in an antique, vintage style," Hart said. "There are 15 rooms in the front. In the back there are four rooms in what we call the villa that have kitchenettes, TVs and are more modern." The work remains ongoing and Jennifer Hart explained that the effort represents more than operating a business. "This place brings me a lot of joy," she said. "I love seeing the property get restored but it takes a lot of money to cover insurance and property taxes, which means rooms need to be rented to pay for it all. But we have a growing list of people coming to stay here and as long as that is the case, we'll keep doing this." Her words highlight challenges facing historic properties throughout America. Unlike museums, places such as Randles Court must continue functioning as businesses while preserving the past. Every occupied room helps maintain the buildings, preserve the neon sign and ensure that future generations can experience a piece of Missouri's roadside heritage. Today, the highway travelers once relied upon has changed. The roadside attraction that flourished during the era of two-lane roads, service stations and family cafés has largely disappeared. What remains is the memory. Thanks to the efforts of Jeremy and Jennifer Hart, that memory is still alive. Nearly a century after Lloyd Boots recognized the promise of a new lake and a growing highway system, Randles Court continues to welcome guests. Through fires, ownership changes, highway realignments, economic shifts and natural disasters, the historic motor court has endured. Randles Court stands today not simply as an old motel, but as a living reminder of the people, businesses and dreams that helped shape Missouri's highway history. Jeremy P. Ämick is author of the upcoming historical compilation “Voices of the Moreau.”  The restored Randles Court neon sign stands as a reminder of the golden age of American highway travel. Originally erected during the property's mid-century years, the sign greeted generations of motorists traveling U.S. Highway 54 on their way to and from the Lake of the Ozarks. Damaged by a tornado in 2019, the landmark was carefully restored by owners Jeremy and Jennifer Hart as part of their ongoing effort to preserve one of Missouri's oldest surviving motor courts. Courtesy of Randles Court  Rose and Lawrence Jackson pose outside the tourist court along U.S. Highway 54 in Eldon during the 1930s. The couple worked in the café and service station associated with the tourist court. Following the loss of his Bagnell garage in a 1931 fire, Lloyd Boots recognized the tourism potential created by the newly formed Lake of the Ozarks, developing what became Boots Cottage Court. The business expanded to include a service station, café, tavern, and tourist cabins. Courtesy of Randles Court Editorial note: This is the first of two articles about the history of Randles Court in Eldon. The fascinating story of Randles Court began not with a motel, but with a fire. In March 1931, a blaze destroyed Lloyd Boots' garage in Bagnell, a community experiencing dramatic change from the construction of Bagnell Dam. When many business owners might choose to rebuild and continue their operations, Boots chose a different path. A later account published by the Tipton Times recalled that after losing his garage, Boots began hauling cobblestones to Eldon in 1931 to construct a service station. The Lake Sun Leader later reported that he "sought refuge in Eldon" and began constructing a service station and motel. The businessman recognized the opportunity being created by the newly formed Lake of the Ozarks. The decision proved remarkably farsighted. The completion of Bagnell Dam and the creation of Lake of the Ozarks transformed central Missouri. Thousands of visitors began traveling to the region to fish, boat and vacation. U.S. Highway 54 emerged as one of the principal routes serving the lake area, and Eldon became a gateway community for travelers headed south. Boots’ vision was that the future belonged to automobile travelers. And rather than rebuilding in Bagnell, he positioned himself along Highway 54 in Eldon, where motorists would need fuel, food and lodging. What began as a service station soon evolved into a much larger enterprise. The November 26, 1931, edition of the Eldon Advertiser reported the marriage of Helen Randles of Poplar Bluff and Lloyd Boots of Eldon. The newspaper noted that the couple would make their home in Eldon, where Lloyd was associated with his father's Super Service Oil Station. The newlyweds quickly became part of Eldon's growing business community. By 1933, Lloyd Boots was identified as proprietor of Boots Super-Service Station. The station served motorists traveling through central Missouri during the rapid expansion of automobile travel. The operation soon expanded beyond fuel sales. A July 4, 1935, article in the Eldon Advertiser reported that Boots had purchased the Lloyd Blackburn restaurant located in the east section of Boots Super Service Station. More significantly, the newspaper noted that he would operate the restaurant in connection with his service station and "modern cabins." The brief announcement reveals that by the summer of 1935, Boots had already assembled the essential components of a successful roadside business. Travelers could purchase gasoline, enjoy a meal and spend the night in modern tourist accommodations without leaving the property. Another newspaper article published on Sept. 26, 1935, reported a burglary at Boots Tavern. Although the story focused on the theft of approximately $30, it also revealed that the tavern operated in conjunction with the service station. Together, the service station, restaurant, tavern and cabins formed a complete roadside destination for motorists traveling Highway 54. The timing could hardly have been better since only a few years earlier, Bagnell Dam had created the Lake of the Ozarks and generated a tourism boom throughout central Missouri. Families increasingly traveled by automobile, and Eldon occupied a strategic location along one of the primary routes leading to the lake. Perhaps the most revealing glimpse into the growth of the business appeared in the April 22, 1937, edition of the Eldon Advertiser. At a time when much of the nation remained mired in the Great Depression, the newspaper reported that Lloyd Boots was excavating for four additional cabins at his property on U.S. Highway 54 and Mill Street. The article noted that the new units would be "larger and better than the others" and would be "strictly modern with private shower bath." The expansion demonstrated both confidence and foresight. While many Americans struggled through economic hardship, Boots invested in modern accommodations designed to attract travelers. Newspaper accounts from the same year reported that the property offered 14 rental rooms in addition to a private apartment occupied by the Boots family. By the late 1930s, the business had become a substantial roadside enterprise. Boots employed managers to oversee various aspects of the operation, allowing him to focus on expansion and development. The property included a service station, restaurant, tavern, lodging facilities and family living quarters. It was far more than a simple tourist camp. In December 1938, the Eldon Advertiser reported that Lloyd Boots had erected a large neon sign bearing the words "Lloyd A. Boots Cottage Court." The newspaper also described the business as an "excellent cottage camp." The glowing sign represented more than an advertisement. Across America, neon had become a symbol of the highway age. Long before GPS and interstate exits, travelers often chose their lodging based upon what they could see from the road. The new sign announced that Boots Cottage Court had become one of the region's premier roadside destinations. The property's reputation soon extended far beyond Missouri. On Aug. 31, 1939, the Eldon Advertiser reported that Otis Hicks and his wife from Prescott, Arizona, stayed at Boots Cottage Court while visiting relatives in Eldon. According to the newspaper, Mrs. Hicks owned 30 cabins in Arizona's San Jose Valley and was therefore familiar with the lodging business. After her stay, she reportedly remarked that the Boots Cottages and their service were "the best they had found between Arizona and Missouri." The same year, Lloyd Boots was elected president of the Eldon Lions Club, reflecting his growing stature as both a businessman and community leader. By the eve of World War II, Boots Cottage Court had become a well-known stop for travelers heading to and from Lake the Ozarks. The story of Boots Cottage Court also carries a fascinating Route 66 connection. Lloyd's brother, Arthur Boots, would later establish the famous Boots Court Motel in Carthage along Route 66. Although the two businesses served different highways, they reflected the same entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to serving America's growing population of automobile travelers. By the end of the 1930s, Lloyd and Helen Boots had built one of central Missouri's most successful roadside enterprises. Their service station, tavern, restaurant and modern cottage court represented the changing face of American travel. However, there was another chapter to be written. Following their divorce, Helen resumed her maiden name, Randles, in 1947. Around the same time, Boots Cottage Court became Randles Court, ushering in a new era for one of Highway 54's most recognizable landmarks. The motel Lloyd Boots created would continue serving travelers for decades to come, even as ownership changed and the American road trip evolved. The story of Randles Court, however, was only beginning. Jeremy P. Ämick is author of the upcoming historical compilation “Voices of the Moreau.”  This vintage postcard depicts Randles Court and Coffee Shop along U.S. Highway 54 in Eldon during the property's heyday as a roadside destination. Originally established as Boots Cottage Court in 1931, the motor court became Randles Court after Helen Randles assumed ownership following her divorce from Lloyd Boots. For years, the motel and coffee shop welcomed travelers heading to and from the Lake of the Ozarks, becoming a familiar landmark during the golden age of automobile travel. Courtesy of Randles Court |
AuthorJeremy P. Ämick is an award-winning author and historian dedicated to preserving music, military and local histories. Archives
July 2026
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