August 2008 Unit Newsletters
Alabama
link to Contacts for Alabama
The only news is that Sam & Ginny Whitaker have been to California to visit their daughter and family. The Gilmores traveled to Alaska with the Opstads, Trish Abernathy and her friend Wendy Lyons. Please place on your calendars now the Fall Rally at Joe Wheeler State Park September 18-21.
See you there.
Dan & Betty
Arizona
link to Contacts for Arizona
If you are thinking of attending the Fall Rendezvous in San Antonio, Texas, Diane is planning a Roving Rally from Benson Arizona to San Antonio. Visits to Tombstone and other notable locations in AZ are planned and the next stop will be in Fabens TX at the Cattlemen’s Restaurant. If you have never enjoyed a meal at this restaurant you will enjoy a lasting memory of this wonderful event. The best part is RV parking is free. If you want to join us on this Roving Rally, part or all the way to San Antonio TX just e-mail for additional information.
Our summer rains have started and very soon we will be into the second spring time in Southern Arizona, the wild flower seeds that have both survived the hungry birds and the summer heat will be sprouting with splashes of color throughout the Southwest.
I trudge off to the mail box daily hoping there will be a note telling us of your travels; however, for the most part all we receive are bills. Now part of the problem may lie with me. The US postal service informed us in June in order to provide better service we are assigned a new Zip Code. Please make a note of this new code for both the AZ unit and Jack & Diane; 85622-5053. This change made in early June is now in effect. We have made several trips to the local Post Office seeking the elusive change of address cards, however, due to an unexpected run they are out of stock.
August Critter Report:
The quail have been working over time to increase their population in the Southwest. One clutch with 18 chicks are now almost grown, while the pair is tending about 14 chicks. These little critters move so fast it is a real chore to make an accurate head count. Roberta’s great grand children continue to make frequent appearances. One male made a trip through the yard and noticed the fish pond and perhaps thought a Koi meal would top off his day of hunting. A gentle reminder gave him the message that this would bring him much trouble. The following day he returned with his brother, again the message big brother is watching, persuaded him that this would negate his welcome. Peter cotton tail, along with his play mates, are also daily visitors. Now that the Mesquite beans have ripened and are dropping to the ground they are ever busy harvesting all they can carry away.
Jack
Arkansas
link to Contacts for Arkansas
There isn't much to tell about AR. Harry & Flo Earhart are planning on coming to our Fall Rally in Harrison, but not bringing their trailer. They are both in bad health and we are looking forward to seeing them. They walked in at Hot Springs for a few hours.
Our children just gave us a big party for our 50th anniversary which is the 23rd. Pat Horsey is still working full time and hopes to quit within the next year. Darrell stays home and does much of the cooking; that is what he loves to do. I wish I had him at my house. Jeanne Rush (Mom) is doing fine at 90 years old and still walks every day.
Our Fall Buddy Rally dates are Sept. 18-20, at Harrison Village Campground.
That is all the news that I know.
Peggy
California
link to Contacts for California
California had a successful Spring Rally at the Napa County Fairgrounds in Calistoga the end of May into June. The site was beautiful, and everyone had a good time going to the Culinary Institute of America for a cooking demo by a very entertaining chef, then to the V. Sattui Winery for a tour of the vineyards, tasting room, and a delicious luncheon on the grounds. It was the highlight of the Rally. We are preparing for the Fall Rally in Borrego Springs on October 24-29.
California has agreed to host a Rendezvous in the spring of 2010. Watch the Fleetwood Flyer for more information as it develops.
News from Members:
From Janie Gustafson:
People will remember Gus, and in October he will have been gone five years. I still miss him, needless to say. I've only been to one Rally since then (outside of Carson City, NV), but always read with interest and nostalgia about other gatherings that I missed out on. So it would mean a great deal to me to come to Borrego Springs. I will try, though I've been under some pressure to be with family members out of state for another occasion. Another great-grand is due in a couple of months. That will be #16, would you believe?
Because my 21-foot motor home is easy to drive, I've been able to visit family and friends (up and down the West Coast and Nevada) a number of times. Gus's and my (second) silver Avion (#1096) is still in the care of our Grandson, Wyatt and his wife Jessica, on their family ranch in NE Nevada. Wyatt takes excellent care of it, and uses it when he needs to. (When I took Gus's name off the title, I added Wyatt's name to mine.) While visiting the ranch, it was more than wonderful for me to spend time in the Avion. Talk about memories! Now! Enough of all that stuff! I hope that I'll be seeing you in October.
Blessings to all Janie Gustafson #1096
From Marilyn Miller:
Not much news here, which may be a good thing. Mayo is expecting his motorized wheelchair in about two weeks. His cataract surgery went well, both eyes done, one in March and other in April. Now has 20-30 in one eye and 20-40 in the other. He is in the beginning stage of macular degeneration but should be good for a few years. We have completed replacement of our rear deck, it is really beautiful. Marilyn is celebrating her 70th birthday in a few weeks! As always, we welcome visiting Fleetwooders.
Marilyn & Mayo
From Bobbye Fitchner:
Subject: Re:Hi from Mt Rushmore
I'm looking forward to the next rally. At the moment I'm in S.D. near Mt. Rushmore. We spent yesterday at the Mountain in order to see the monument in the daylight and again at night with the lights. It’s spectacular and well worth seeing. From SD I head to Yellowstone, the Tetons and then Oregon. Will be home late October.
Hello to all. Bobbye
From Mary Plunkett:
Harvey is doing very well at this time. It took about six weeks for him to feel good again. He is far better than he has been for several years. The Whitaker's, Sam & Ginny, spent two days and night's with us the middle of June and will stop back the 7th of July on their way back to AL. after visiting family and friends in the Riverside, CA. area.
Mary
From Cindy Fincke:
Kent & I took a road trip up to Yellowstone in May. We beat the high season rush and it was fantastic! The week started with us in shorts and flip-flops, and by the end of the week we were in boots and coats. The weather alone was incredible, from sunshine to rain and then to two inches of snow WOW!!
We took the four-legged boys with us, Roscoe & Barney, and they loved the RV Park we were at. We had a prime location at the Grizzly RV Park at the West Entrance to Yellowstone and there was a great field that they got to romp around in when we would come back from driving around inside Yellowstone. I have to say, of all the locations we've traveled to, (so far) Grizzly RV Park was the best. The location was huge, yet even when it was filling up, you didn't have your neighbor's RV so close that you could see what they were eating. The facilities were clean and the people were friendly.
The place was surrounded by wildlife inside and outside the park. As we were pulling into town, we got to see a huge Moose, who actually waited for us to slow down and come to a stop before he sauntered across the road. Of course inside the park we saw plenty of Bison, Elk and other furry creatures. But seeing that Moose really made the beginning of our journey exciting. Kent really loved getting to see the Grizzly Bear moseying around in a large grassy field.
We took the long way home and had an adventure going through Wyoming, Idaho, Oregon, Nevada and down into the Sierra's before coming back to the San Fernando Valley. I am so grateful for our RV; it made our road trip a luxury journey with all the comforts of home. There is some beautiful country out there, and I’m glad we could enjoy it. Oh, and gas prices outside of California were a little more reasonable.
Cinde
The Southern California group has been meeting for lunch on a regular basis. It is usually the standbys, Ansevics, Davises and Huberts, however last month they were pleased to welcome Harvey & Mary Plunkett who were taking a little R&R at the Wilderness Lake Resorts nearby. They are planning a weekend campout in place of their November luncheon, the second weekend at Rancho Jurupa in Riverside and would like to invite anyone to join them. Information regarding reservations is in The Fleetwood Flyer under special events.
In the meantime everyone is looking forward to the Fall Rendezvous in San Antonio, TX and the Fall Rally in Borrego Springs.
Kathy
Florida
link to Contacts for Florida
Bill & Wilma Rink celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary in Hawaii. Bill has been in and out of Physical Therapy for a shoulder repair. They had a good time playing WII games with Bob & Shirley Pittenger who are doing well. They told us that a close friend and long time club member, Anna Toft passed away June 29th.
Chuck & Fran Blanchet have had a busy summer with the European River Boat Cruise and Fran found an 83 year old cousin in Mainz, Germany. She looked her up in the phone book, how hard was that? They visited for four hours. They also celebrated their 45th Wedding Anniversary with family.
Bob & Pat Bradford are staying at home in FL this summer completing “honey-dos”. Dave & Pam Cox went to Family reunion in MN. Jon & Penny Shattuck are planning a Caribbean Cruise this fall. Jim & Joyce Saxon were deployed to Jacksonville FL to work a State Farm Call Center.
Al & Carole Dumbleton have stayed very busy making Tote Bags for hospitalized children. So far they have made 149 and have used all the material in their house and ask for everyone coming to the Florida Fall Rally to bring more material.
Bill & Chris Catron have had numerous visitors to their RV parking area in West Virginia. Jenova & Charles Hoelscher, as well as family members, have all had a great time there.
They joined Roy & Dee Manor to check out an RV park but the sites ONLY cost over $100,000.
Linda Woodard went back home to England with her grandson to reconnect with her roots. She met with Family and Friends and now knows why she lives in FL.
Mike
Georgia
link to Contacts for Georgia
News is scarce, so this will be a short letter. In May, Tom & Janis Johnson joined Suzanne & Gwyn King at Moccasin Creek State Park where we enjoyed two days of camping and boat riding on beautiful Lake Burton. From there, we joined the South Carolina Unit for their Spring Rally at Palmetto Cove near Cleveland, SC.
Our Fall Georgia/South Carolina Joint Rally is September 24-28 at Camp Harmony, 2063 Harmony Road, Elberton, GA 30635. As of this date (July 19) no one has stepped forward to volunteer to be officers of the Georgia Unit for the coming year.
A letter will go out this month to all Georgia members and Associate members with details of the Fall Rally.
Tom
Illinois
link to Contacts for Illinois
The Illinois Unit attended the North central Roundup at Mt. Pleasant, Iowa. Attending were the following: Carmans, Chenoweths, Foremans, Peters, Russells, Sorensens, Wagners, Wells, Weithorns and one of our new members, Larry & Sharon Waller with their two daughters. It was nice to see the Chenoweths. Governor Hendrickson along with his crew did a great job organizing the Roundup. Lots of good food and outings were enjoyed by all. Thanks to Byron Peters and his crew for fixing a fulfilling pancake breakfast.
While eating breakfast, lightning struck a tree right next to the Russell’s RV. Their antenna cable was burned in half and their air condition was zapped. The next day, the Weithorns realized that their converter, air conditioner and thermostat were not working.
Please remember the dates for our Buddy Rally at Starved Rock. They are August 5-8. A notice will be mailed shortly. The Unit Rally will take place in Rantoul September 3-7. Norma & Bert Shafer have been busy making plans for things to do while we are in Rantoul.
Kudos to Ann Collins for her continued help in decorating the stage for the Rendezvous. The Winter Rendezvous in Columbia, MO was the 10th time that she has done it.
Judy
Indiana
link to Contacts for Indiana
No Report
Iowa
link to Contacts for Iowa
No Report
Kentucky
link to Contacts for Kentucky
Nine rigs joined together May 17-19 at Glendale Campground in Elizabethtown, KY for the Spring Rally of the Kentucky Unit. Especially welcomed were special guests, Bob & Pat Bradford from the Florida Unit, and buddies, Del & Sally Rathert from Smith Grove, KY, as well as new members, Tom & Martha Lovelace from Glasgow, KY.
Festivities began Thursday afternoon with early arrival followed by a weenie roast, which had to be held inside due to heavy rains also arriving. The evening was capped off by rousing games of Joker, Euchre, and Phase Ten.
Friday morning dawned sunny and warmer as the group gathered for sausage and biscuits prepared by chefs, Lloyd Smith and Russ Peavler. After the business meeting, members prepared to car pool to Loretto, KY for a delicious lunch at Hill House Bed and Breakfast. The owner graciously shared some history of the house and a tour before the group left, promising to return for more of the delicious fare.
Next stop was the Makers Mark Distillery just over the holler. The grounds are peaceful and picturesque, a perfect place to age bourbon to perfection. Highlights of the tour were the option to taste the fermenting mash and, of course, a tasting session of the final product. The bourbon candy shared was a nice treat as well.
The chilly, but sunny, Saturday was free time for members to choose local attractions of their choice. Many visited Swopes Car Museum, and everyone enjoyed a walk around Glendale, KY during the May Fest being held there. One could shop the many craft and antique booths, eat “festival fare” or have a relaxing lunch at the famous Whistle Stop Restaurant. That evening the group joined for grilled pork tenderloin prepared by our “chefs” and pot luck followed by Bunko, door prizes, and, what else, more Joker.
After Sunday devotions on “trust”, members will no longer pass up a penny found on the ground. It’s a gentle reminder from God to do just that with the engraved words “In God we Trust.” Fond good-byes were shared and wishes for safe travel.
Louise
Michigan
link to Contacts for Michigan
Does it really seem like the summer is almost over? It was so busy at the beginning, planning for our camping events, plus all the individual family happenings, that the time has gotten past all of us. As this article is being written the plans are being finalized for our Summer Rally in Lowell. Ralph & Joannie Cooper have done a great job organizing this campout. The participation is good, but that could be that the officers decided not to charge a registration fee for members. With the cost of gas, something was needed to bring members out to participate in the fun, food and friends that F.T.C. seems to always provide. This is a one-time try-out and hopefully it will be successful and a good use of your dues.
The Fall Rally is at a new site. It will be held at Bay Shore Campground in Sebewing, up in the thumb area and east of Bay City. Dennis & Carolyn Wright located this place for the group. The campground has a huge auction at this time, so plan to bring so extra money with you to purchase some treasures.
Notice that the Fall Buddy Rally has been cancelled. The date was conflicting with the Fall Rally.
Nomination of new officers will be done this summer and the installation of officers will take place at the Fall Rally. So if anyone is interested in changing things and helping make our unit more successful, please step up and volunteer for the position. New ideas are always welcomed.
If you haven’t already, mark these dates on your calendar:
August 19-23 North Central Region Roundup in Elkhart, Indiana
September 21-27 Fall Rally at Bay Shore Campground Sebewing
October 5-12 Fall Rendezvous San Antonio, Texas
October 12 26 Texas Big Bend Travelcade
Hope to be at some of these functions ourselves and looking forward to seeing familiar faces again, especially since Don & I missed the Summer Rally in Lowell. Our trip to Oregon for two weeks was conflicting.
Enjoy the rest of the summer and be safe traveling.
Doris
Missouri
link to Contacts for Missouri
Greetings from Missouri
So far we have all survived the flooding, tornados and hail that has hit us here in Missouri. It has kept the grass green and flowers blooming. Rossi left in June for California. We hope he had a good trip, and was not caught up in the fires there. We plan to see him in September.
Gerry Lorenz’s sister came to visit them in July. I am sure they had a good time. They are taking a trip to Colorado in September.
Billy & Barbara Knowlton are taking a trip to Tacoma, WA in July to visit family. Baumhoeggers had a new GREAT grand baby this spring. What a joy.
Don't forget our Fall Buddy Rally:
Sept 10-13, 2008 Osceola, MO. It is nestled along the bend of the Osage River and Upper arm of Truman Lake. Fishing is permitted so bring your pole. Take a walk on the bridge that goes over the river and tour the town of Osceola. Check The Fleetwood Flyer or website for directions, or contact me at bknowlton@centurytel.net or (417) 859-6184. Hope to see you there.
We have enjoyed visiting and the food at our luncheons. They are the Second Wednesday of each month at Home Town Buffet, Manchester, MO at 1PM. Come join us if you are in the area. Also a reminder our Fall Rendezvous October 5-12, 2008 in San Antonio, TX.
See The Fleetwood Flyer or website for details.
Safe travels to you all,
Barbara
Nebraska
link to Contacts for Nebraska
No Report
North Carolina
link to Contacts for North Carolina
Ron & I returned home July 18th after three months of traveling through this great country of ours. We traveled with Bill & Pam East to Missouri, and then met Willie & Undine Lamm in Rapid City, SD.
Our little group met with the Rocky Mountain Unit in Cody, WY on June 14th for a Rolling Rally of Wyoming and Montana led by Harry & Betty Petersen. We had a great time seeing Yellowstone, the gold mining area of Montana, and Helena, the capitol of Montana. For a summary of what a good time we had see the Rocky Mountain news.
After we left our Rocky Mountain friends, we went to Glacier National Park. The Easts and Lamms continued on into Canada, and Ron & I started on our return trip. We visited Little Big Horn National Monument and Teddy Roosevelt National park in Medora, ND on our way home.
We’ve talked to Bill & Pam and they too have returned home safely. We will be leaving again in October to participate in the San Antonio Rendezvous and the Big Bend Travelcade. We hope to see some of our NC Unit members in Texas. A registration form is available on the Website.
I had a note from Louise Safrit who lost her husband last fall. She is doing well and is starting to do some traveling. We hope to see her at one of our rallies soon. Marlis & Hermann Stumps will be busy entertaining two of their grandchildren who will be visiting them in August. We hope others in our unit our having a nice summer. Safe travels to everyone.
Nancy
Ohio
link to Contacts for Ohio
Well it has been typical Ohio weather; cool temperatures, rain, wind, HIGH temperatures (90’s here), humidity, and let’s not forget storms! Ohio has it all!!
May 6, 2008 was our Ohio Unit Spring Luncheon in Canton. Don & June Grable, Jack & Bev Carstensen, Glen & Verla Forney, Dean & Yvonne W. Bailey, David & Paula Staib, John & Alice Wheeler and Bob & Marilyn Zakrajsek joined in the festivities. Thank you, June for arraigning the dinner for all of us. Good food, lots of laughter, good conversation, and good friends!!
May 12-17, 2008 was the Ohio Unit Spring Buddy Rally in Medina, Ohio at the Medina County Fair Grounds. We had rain, heat, humidity, cool temperatures AND lots of fun. Dallas & Kitty Wagner, Sam & Julia Lucas, Mark & Sue Chiles, Dean & Yvonne Westover/Bailey, Don & June Grable, Ron & Louise Gossard, John & Alice Wheeler, Cal & Lee Brehm, David & Paula Staib, Phil & Pat Tuttle, and Bob & Marilyn Zakrajsek joined in the fun. Dean & Yvonne hosted our First Annual Corn Hole Tournament. The gentlemen made a trip to The Log Cabin Shop, while the ladies went to Miss Molly’s Tea Room for lunch. Later, we toured the National Military Cemetery in Rittman, Ohio. That was a very moving and worthwhile trip. If you are ever in the area, and have time stop in, you won’t be sorry.
Thanks to Lee Brehm we found out some interesting about the men in our group. Sam Lucas received the Teacher of the Year for the entire State of Ohio. Dallas Wagner was one of the few survivors of the Battle of the Bulge in WWII. John Wheeler not only plays the keyboard for our Wednesday night’s Vesper Service, but he was a Band Director for 30 years and had his own orchestra in his spare time. We were treated to his expertise when our High School trombone trio and John gave an impromptu Jam session for about 20 minutes. The group told me later that they enjoyed the experience and were quite impressed with John’s talent and easy going manner. Great job John!
Our Corn Hole Tournament was put on by Dean & Yvonne. Dean made four boards while Yvonne made all of the “Corn bags”. Dean & Yvonne won First Place, and Alice Weaver was the “Most Improved Player”. We are all looking forward to the next tournament in September at Baylor Beach Park in Navarre, Ohio.
Bud & Betty Whitehill live in Medina and stopped in two of the evenings we were there. They enjoyed a wonderful visit, and catching up on all the news.
Don’t forget to keep your calendars marked for September 8-13, 2008 at Baylor Beach Park in Navarre, Ohio. That is the Ohio Unit’s Fall Buddy Rally. The first night will be a pot-luck supper. It was suggested that we do something that we haven’t done in a while; a pot luck breakfast! So, bring a hearty appetite for the supper and the breakfast that will be one morning (Breakfasts are better in the Morning). We will have the S.S.S. again (Sewing (or craft) Surplus Sale). So ladies start looking in your sewing/craft closets!
The Ohio unit Fall Luncheon will be September 23, 2008 at the Hometown Buffet.
Just a few Laugh Lines:
Connie: I found a horseshoe, Mother
Mother: Do you know what that means?
Connie: Yes Mother, Some poor horse is running around in his stocking feet.
Dizzy: Do you know why a hen sitting on a fence is like a penny?
Lizzy: No Why?
Dizzy: Because she has a head on one side and a tail on the other!
THAT’S ALL FOLKS!!
Safe Travels. See you in September in Navarre, and Canton.
Marilyn
Oklahoma
link to Contacts for Oklahoma
This is certainly the most unusual July we've had in a long time for it has been rainy and not a 100 degree day, yet. The grass is green without watering and the flowers are full of blooms. This can't be summer in Oklahoma.
I know that Jerry & Shelby Brown are traveling to Montana and seeing Glacier National Park and all the beauty in that area but I've not heard from any of travels from our other members. Ebb & I are preparing for a trip to Rome and then taking a Mediterranean cruise and we are really excited about all the sights we'll see. I hope this finds all our members healthy and enjoying the summer.
Be sure to mark your calendars for the Oklahoma Fall Buddy Rally September 14-17 to be held at Greenleaf State Park which is located at Braggs, Oklahoma on SH-10A.
Enjoy the rest of the summer.
Ginny
Oregon
link to Contacts for Oregon
Greetings Fleetwood Travelcade Club Friends:
Our weather here in Oregon has been wonderful. This is the perfect place to spend summer.
Our July luncheon was a great time of fellowship and good food. Those attending were:
Lee & Peg Bridgeman, Paul & Paula Brawn, Tom Cahill, (we missed Kathy who was home with a bad cold), Dick & Carol Eckhart, LaVerne & Norma Edwards, Ed & Carol Fox, Wayne & Sarah Gabel, Max & Polly Hohnbaum, and Roland & Marilyn Vorrath. It was great visiting with good friends. We learned that Lee & Peg have been very busy getting ready for a big garage or yard sale.
We spent some time talking about our Fall Rally, which will be in Salem, OR, Sept.17-21, 2007. We have some great activities planned and of course lots of good food too! I am asking that you have your registration forms back to me by Aug. 15th. If I missed getting a form to you or if you cannot find yours, just call me or send me an email and I will get one right off to you. Remember this is a Buddy Rally and we hope you will invite your friends too. There are Motels nearby if someone wants to come without a RV. You can call me at (541) 767-0422 or email elenle@aol.com.
NEWS FROM FRIENDS:
Russ & Joyce Brower are taking a break from the Yuma heat and spending a couple months on the Oregon Coast. They are near Pacific City and Herb & Margie Christensen live in Tillamook, so I’m sure they are getting together often.
Steve & Beth Bancroft are having a good summer and enjoying their home in Boise. I am sure their little dog "Mickie" keeps them having fun.
Burdell & Mable Ann Borchardt are working at Red Fish Lake in Idaho again this summer. I tried to call them but didn't get through.
Gerald & Linda Lavy have been having lots of company this summer. They are enjoying kids and Grandkids and Gerald has been working some.
I talked with Helen Proctor and she is really enjoying her new home and neighborhood in Idaho. She had just returned from attending her Grandson's wedding and she has had lots of company and expecting more next week.
Dan & Shirley Roberts have just returned home from a trip back to their other home in Texas. They have a building project going on there that will almost double the size of their house. It sounds like the construction is going very well.
Lane & Mary Widmark are getting ready to take off on their summer trip to ND. They are having a family get together there and Lane told me they were even going to retrace their honeymoon trip. Now, that sounds like real fun. Lane assured me that they will be back in time to attend the Fall Rally.
Allen & Nita Campbell are planning their trip to CO where they will visit their daughter and we are sorry to hear that they will not be back in time for the rally.
To those of you who are celebrating a Birthday or Wedding Anniversary, we send our Congratulations.
Remember to send those Rally Registrations and we will look forward to seeing you in Salem.
Till then, we wish you a great, healthy and safe summer.
Norma
Pennsylvania
link to Contacts for Pennsylvania
We would like to start out to say we are sorry we missed the last new letter but it seems that time just ran out. We thought, being retired, we would have a lot of time to do nothing. It seems we are busier now then when we were working and can not get all the things done we have planned. It could not be that it takes longer to do the same chores as it did ten years ago?
Our Spring Buddy Rally (May 14-18) was held at Mountain Creek Camp ground, Gardners, PA and our Wagonmasters were the Turners and Bowers. We had ten rigs, the Arnolds, Bowers and Shirley Stetler, Eichlins, Flynn/McCleary, Lindsays, John & Pat Owens, Skrables, Turners and our buddies the Bahnicks, and Salavators. We had a nice surprise when Jim & Ida Ann Dunagan showed up. They stayed a few miles away at an Inn, because their Motorhome was still in FL and would join us each day. Jim is doing better now but he said that it just takes him a little longer to do things. It was so good to see them. We just heard today he is now having back problems! Keep Jim in your prayers!
Our first night we had a supper and, you know, food, food and more food? We had the Dintermans from MD drop in and join us for supper (hope they can make our Fall Buddy Rally). Thursday after our coffee and donuts the men (Pat was one of the men) had a very interesting tour of Turner Hydraulic shop. Their son spent most of the morning talking, showing and answering our many questions about their operation. Many thanks go to the Turners for a most interesting tour. Then off to lunch. While the men were on their tour the ladies went to Meadowbrook Gourd shop. A few purchases, and why eat alone, so a stop for lunch! That night was our ice cream social with all the fixings.
Friday, after a hardy pancake breakfast, we were off to Cumberland Historical Society Library. They had pictures, pottery, different items from the area, and displays. That night we were going to have a campfire with finger food, but the weather did not cooperate, so inside with a fire in the wood stove and our food. At times the rain beat down on the metal roof so hard we had a hard time talking to one another, but that didn’t stop us from telling our adventures or our miss adventures. Saturday after coffee and donuts it was off to the US Army Heritage Educational Center. They had a nice building with military pictures and talks going on. Outside were displays, of military items, buildings, equipment from over the years and demonstrations, like paratroop drops, loading and firing old cannons and etc. That night it was on to Holly Inn for our food, fun and fellowship. Sunday was tine to pack up and say our goodbyes and attend church. Thanks to the Turners and Bowers for all your work, so we could have a good time with our friends.
Our Fall Buddy Rally will be September 3-7 at Sea Pirates Family Camping Resort, Route 9, West Creek, N.J. 08092 Wagonmasters are the Skrables. By now you may have received or will shortly receive your reservation form, so please send them back as soon as possible as some plans may have to be adjusted based on the number attending. You may call Ruth & Bob at (609) 660-8846 if you have any questions. Thank you.
Hope to see you in September. Good Health and Safe Travels.
Mae
Rocky Mountain
link to Contacts for the Rocky Mountain Unit
Our Wild West Rolling Buddy Rally has ended and we all had a wonderful time. Unit members present included Clarence & Joyce Connor, Knute, Joan and Aunt Jeanette Cotton, Bob & Helen Freer, Bob & Clara Lee, Gary, Danny and mother, Veronica Mort, Harry & Betty Peterson and Tom and daughter Christine Roberts. We are so thankful that both Joyce Connor and Tom Roberts felt well enough to join our rally, and to continue with us to the end. Guests included John & Nina Dennis of the IL unit, Bill & Pam East, Ron & Nancy Frank, and Willie & Undine Lamm, all of the NC Unit, Johnny & Jane Griggs and Ken & Marilyn Murphy of the TX Unit and buddies Robert Taylor of OK and Fred & Linda Walkey of WA. We were sorry to miss Wayne & DeeAnn DeMill of NM and Chuck & Inez Michael from WA, who had to turn back due to deaths in their families. With all four borders of the USA represented we made a great group, all eager to see the sites along our route. For many, it was the first time out west. Our weather was great, with the Big Sky Country showing its beauty with its snow capped Rocky Mountains and green valleys.
We started our Rolling Rally in Cody, WY with a trolley tour of the town and visits to the wonderful Buffalo Bill Historic Center; plus a gunfight on the street, dinner at the famed Irma Hotel, a cowboy music review and a rodeo, with us all sitting above the bucking chutes; and a tour of the Buffalo Bill Dam center. We slowed down long enough to have our Rocky Mountain Unit Spring Business Meeting. Most nights we met for Happy Hour to discuss the day's events and often followed that with pot luck meals together. We soon became a cohesive group that allowed for lots of fun, food and fellowship together. We all enjoyed our four days in Cody, but it was time to move our trailers west, driving past snow banks along the side of the road as we traveled through Yellowstone National Park on our way to our campground in West Yellowstone, Montana.
The next two days we car pooled on tours through both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks seeing the many geysers, paint pots, hot springs, beautiful snow covered peaks and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River with it's large waterfalls that were brim full of spring run off. Again each night we met for Happy Hour to share our wildlife count: buffalo, elk, deer, moose, antelope, bear, bald eagles, coyotes and more. Many folks went to the IMAX Theater while Harry and Bob Freer went fishing with some trout caught, and some folks spent time at the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center. Again we shared dinner together and even breakfasts, cooked by various members of the group.
As we headed north our first stop was at the Madison River Earthquake Lake Visitor's Center to view a movie explaining the damage that was still so evident when the mountain slid into the valley floor in 1959, covering a campground and burying the campers. The next few days were spent in Ennis, MT where we enjoyed touring the nearby gold mining towns of Virginia City and Nevada City. We enjoyed walking the board walks, shopping, and visiting the old buildings from the gold rush days, as well as the melodrama and vaudeville show in the old Opera House. At the campground we met for worship, meals together and even card games in the evening.
Soon it was time to travel north again with many of us stopping along the way to tour the Lewis & Clark Caverns; a two mile hike down into the earth. What an adventure that was!! Then it was on to our last stop in Helena, MT, the Capital City. Again we viewed the Victorian City on their tour train, enjoyed the guided tour of the beautiful St. Helena Cathedral, as well as the Capital Building. Our last day together was spent on a boat ride through the Gates of the Mountains on the Missouri River, viewing the lovely mountains, searching for wild life, and seeing the effects of past wild fires. We ended our grand two week trip with dinner together and final hugs as we prepared to leave each other the following morning. Everyone seemed to have had a great time and looked forward to seeing each other again at future Fleetwood events.
We hope you all have a wonderful summer, as we know we will, in Montana. Harry will spend many days fishing with his brothers, doing some golfing, while I spend most days visiting my 97 year old mother and getting her out for trips around town.
Safe travels to all.
Betty
South Carolina
link to Contacts for South Carolina
It's been some time since our Spring Rally was held but you should know that even though we had a small group attending, we had a good time. Those who were able to be with us were Jim & Billie Barton, Sandy & Mary Ann Lempert, Harry & Lee Peel from SC and Tom & Janis Johnson from GA. Since we had all arrived on Wednesday, our dinner that evening was spaghetti, salad and brownies. On Thursday AM we went strawberry picking as we were having cake, ice cream and berries on Friday. That was enough exercise for one day for me and I guess others would agree. Thursday dinner was a pot-luck with so-o-o much food and plenty of leftovers.
Our Friday morning adventures took us to Caesar’s Head State Park where we saw some of the beauty of this great earth. We could even see our campground and pick out our trailers/motorhomes. Just as we were about to leave the parking lot a car pulled up and the gentleman made some remark, then recognition set in. It was none other than our good friends and associates Hank & Peggy Moore from NC. They had stopped at the campground to find us gone, the hosts told them where we were headed and they were hoping to catch up with us before we left for other places. Some of us switched vehicles so that we could catch up on what has been happening in their life.
From there we proceeded to “Pretty Place” which is an open air chapel built to follow the slope of the mountain. As you go down the steps, you see the wide open spaces of the hills and trees (a really beautiful sight in fall). There are many weddings which take place here. We had another stop at DuPont Park, where you could walk (¼ of a mile or so) in through the woods to a waterfall. Yours truly waited in the truck with Hank & Peggy. When the group got back it was getting a little late for us to go on to Brevard, NC (with Jim & Billie to a Chinese restaurant) so we went back to the camp to prepare for the dinner of baked potatoes, all the fixings along with salad. After dinner was the time for our strawberries, etc. Later in the day we had a couple from FL come in to meet us (the Ivey's) and spend the next day or so with us and hopefully they are now members of the club. We hope so!!
On Saturday we had our pancake breakfast along with eggs & sausage, etc. It was really nice to have some of the men pitch in to help with this. Our business meeting followed and Harry spoke of our need for a new president. At this time there were no volunteers but we may have someone step forward soon. The rest of the day was free to do whatever you wanted. We had planned to go out for Saturday dinner but since we had had so-o-o many “leftovers”, one of our group suggested we just stay home to eat. On Sunday AM we had a very short “devotion time” then said our farewells till next time!
We had heard from Marlene Murray before the rally and they were unable to attend due to the serious health problem of her daughter in NY. We are sorry to report that her daughter passed away about a month after they got up to see her. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Claire & Kathy Stewart are traveling the country, CO for an anniversary, OH to visit family and IA where their daughter has been busy with the flooding which took place in Cedar Rapids recently. We had a note from Kathy (it's a home) so cannot be sure if there was any damage to her home or not.
As I haven't heard from anyone else, I guess all is well with them.
Our Fall Rally will be held in Elberton, GA (same place we had it last year), September 18-21. Notices will be sent out later this month or early August when Harry & I can get home to compile the letter. At the present time, we are “hosting” at Lake Powhatan (Asheville, NC) in the Pisgah Forest for July and August. We're about 75 miles away so we can get back within a reasonable time.
Hope to see you all Soon!
Lee
Tennessee
link to Contacts for Tennessee
No Report
Texas
link to Contacts for Texas
The TX Spring Buddy Rally will be held at the Mineola Civic Center, 1150 Newsom, Mineola, TX 75773 April 13-18, 2009 US hwy 69 & TX hwy 37. RV rates will be 20.00 per day, check out time is noon. More information to come. Contact Joyce Monk 17304 TX. Email tandjoycemonk@yahoo.com telephone (903) 892-4280.
We will get together in old Mineola, TX Civic Center for a Winter/Christmas Campout December 3-5, 2008 1150 Newsom 75773 US hwy US 69 & TX 37. BRING @ GIFT.
Tom
Virginia
link to Contacts for Virginia
No Report
Washington
link to Contacts for Washington
The Federal Way luncheon was held on June 17th and it was a lot of fun, with Lois Burns, Dick Heaton, Ray & Marlise Hanson, Barney & Jeanne Klinger, Frank & Eileen Lamar, and Les & Linda Willey in attendance. We were all saddened to hear of the deaths of Frank Perry and Hugh Schmidt. Several "do you remember when" stories were shared.
Dick Heaton is very happy living at Patriot's Landing now, and Frank & Eileen stay busy at Jubilee Village. (Not much time was spent chatting after lunch because the restaurant was expecting a party of 150 in their already-busy dining room).
The North End lunch bunch met at Marysville on July 7th with Tom & Marnie Opstad, Beth & George Mac Kay, Larry & Marge Raymond, Harry & Susan Andrews, Norm & Norma Anderson, Trish Abernathy, Jim & Fran Reed, Ray & Marlise Hanson and Ken & Carolyn Abramson in attendance.
Ken & Carolyn thanked all of those who helped to make the Burnaby Rally such a success. Ken also thanked all of those who sent get well cards by both e-mail and snail mail. He happily reported the both he & Carolyn are well on the road to recovery.
There were lots of laughs with people telling about their travel adventures. Tom reported on the cruise to Alaska taken by the Opstads, Trish Abernathy, the Gilmores and the Reeds. Trish was proudly displaying the gold that she panned. She told us it was 6 dollars worth of gold dust in a 21 dollar pendant. But it is a great reminder of the trip and all of the fun that was had.
There was lots of discussion about the upcoming Washington Unit Fall Rally in Lacey. I know you either belong in the category of people who are having fond memories of Burnaby and are so thankful they didn't miss it OR you are kicking yourself for not being there. Well, guess what?? The Fall Rally is happening September 10-14 in Lacey and it is going to be just as much fun. So don't miss it this time. We are supposed to learn from our mistakes remember, missing the Washington Fall Rally would be a mistake. Lacey is quite central for most and so the gas prices will not be as much of a concern. Remember, it is a Buddy Rally so invite all of your friends to join you. If you have not yet received your registration forms, contact me and I will e-mail one to you.
It was another nice luncheon for the South End lunch bunch this week. Gathering at the Old Country Buffet were Tom & Marnie, Fran & Jim, Barney & Jeanne, Frank & Eileen, Lois Burns, Dick Heaton and Les & Linda. The exciting events lined up for the Fall Rally in Lacey were the "hot topic" of the afternoon. Also, Lois Burns' silver Avion (1976) and her Ford pickup (mid-90's) are both for sale. Also for sale is Dick Heaton's Class C Avion motor home (1978). Lois was asking for advice on how much to ask for her Avion. Lots of Fun Food and Fellowship for the south enders as well.
The Hansons, Browers, Christians, Bancrofts, Edwards, Foxes, and Paula & Paul Brown will be,getting together at Browers cabin North of Pacific City (Tiera de Mar) on the Oregon coast August 14-15.
The plans for the Christmas party are well underway and everyone is reminded to confirm their reservation at the Polynesian. This is a joint Christmas party so remind our Oregon friends to do the same. The information packets will be available in September at the Fall Rallies and those not picked up will be mailed right after the Oregon Rally.
It is not too late to pay your dues for 2008. Send your International dues of $35.00 to Dan Gilmore and your Unit dues of $5.00 to Eileen Lamar (Unit Treasurer) to make certain that you do not loose your seniority. The awards are very nice and we would hate to have you miss getting yours because you forgot to remit your dues.
Harry & Susan Andrews will be missing the August luncheon because they will be enjoying a visit from their daughter and grandson Colton who are coming all of the way from Texas.
By the time you read this the August luncheon will be over and people will be heading for Lacey and then on to Salem. There is no luncheon planned in September. So safe travels to everyone and we look forward to making more memories and having loads of Fun, Food and Fellowship at the Fall Rallies.
Carolyn