Funtime Travelers
April Outing 2002

The following article is submitted by Anne and Dean Crewdson, Co-Secretary, Funtime Travelers, Local Florida Chapter:

Summertime temperatures were back when the Funtime Travelers gathered at Encore Superpark, Pt. Charlotte (Harbor Lakes at El Jobean) April 19-21, 2002.  We had 12 coaches show up for a 60% attendance.  Coaches began arriving early and as each was set up on our nice cement pads, members began to gather in the screened-in  room which was in close proximity to our sites.  Even with the temperatures in the high 80's to low 90's there was a pleasant breeze which made the area comfortable, so much so, our planned activities were held there rather than the air conditioned club house.  We enjoyed a "question and answer" period initiated by Kathy Bolam concerning such subjects as establishing a list of hosts, and duties and responsibilities of hosting a campout.  Our newest members, Chet and Linda Neice were introduced.  Heavy hor d'oeuvres were the fare this afternoon and what a variety of choices!  We waited a couple of hours before dessert (strawberries and cake) was served and then the evening games began.

Saturday's pot luck breakfast consisted of scrambled eggs prepared by our hosts, along with a variety of side dishes including, sausage, bacon, ham, fruits, bagles, just to mention a few.  After a brief relaxation period, it was time for our chapter meeting.  Some items discussed were:

"Save the Manatee" - Due to legal actions currently being taken,  the club again agreed not to donate funds at this time.

Nominating Committee Report - Slate of officers for upcoming election was introduced.

Florida State Rally in March -  A water hose was left behind and we're still searching for the owner;  30 amp adapters should be checked for damage; letter from President, Winnie-Gators was read thanking chapter for excellent accomplishment of parking duties.

After the meeting chapter officers met to complete our "Chapter of Excellence" entry.  Additionally, Dee Fuller, Phyllis Clinton, and Evelyn Meekma met to establish written guidlines for hosting a campout.  A 50/50 raffle was conducted in support of the Prader Willie Foundation. Some members were off to the nearby shopping mall, flea market, or to enjoy the pool.  We had to move up our dinner time at the Whiskey Creek Grille as was recommended by the manager in order to assure seating 24 people together.  For those who have never visited Florida during tourist season dinner time at popular restaurants can be a very long wait before being seated and/or served.  We returned to the campground and rather than play games we gathered in the screened-in room where we had a good old-fashioned story telling time.  It was a typical campfire circle  without the campfire, of course.  To top off the evening we were treated to creme de menth/ice cream drinks made by Irene Dickelman.  How soothing they were after a big meal!

A beautiful, cool, Sunday morning began with coffee, juice and rolls before we started packing to leave.  We had a surprise visit from the Wolf's, members of the NY Seneca Winnies, who were staying at the campground.  Two of our members, the Madsens and Meekmas, were leaving to start their journey back North.  Safe journeys were wished to all and thanks extended to our hosts, Ward and Helen Marlatt and Dean and Anne Crewdson.

Encore Superpark, Pt. Charlotte, is very organized and provides good support for rallies.  A little disagreement with a staff member was resolved quickly with apologies extended.  The sites provided had oversized cement pads.  The screened-in room needed replacement of some missing screen which allowed a pair of bunnies to join us, although insects were not a big problem.  We understand the room may be torn down which if happens will be really missed since our group enjoys it so much.