Funtime Travelers

 February 2008 Newsletter

By Ted Meekma

February 15-17, 2008 were the dates for the Funtime Travelers February meeting at Sun Lake RV Resort at Ruskin Florida. Friday afternoon counted nine coaches in, with Joyce Lewis driving in to join us for the afternoon activities. We were happy to welcome two more new couples into our chapter, Joe and Joan Ambrose and Ed and Carole Gies. It was great to have them with us! That’s six new couples, now, since our November meeting, and they are a real “shot in the arm” for our chapter! Thanks for bringing to us that extra “spark” we were in need of!
 
Beautiful weather accompanied us all weekend, and Friday afternoon found a little friendly out-door competition, with a number of us attempting, at least, to show off our skills with the golf-toss game. After “Happy Hour,” we enjoyed Johnsonville Brats and Ballpark Franks, with additional delicious dishes brought in by our members. Dominoes were played later that evening.
Saturday morning we had a light breakfast of mixed fruit, assorted breads, toast and coffee provide by our co-hosts, Barb and Harlan Evans and Evie & Ted Meekma.
 
Dave and Betty McLauchlin, our Secretary/Treasurers, drove in for our chapter meeting, which was called to order at 10:00 AM by Pres. Bud Geng. Bud reminded us of our “Greeter” duties at the State Rally in Orlando, March 6-9.
At noon we all carpooled over to Apollo Beach for a very delicious lunch at “Circles Waterfront Dining” at Land’s End Marina. We followed this up with a little side trip to the Manatee Viewing Area near the Tampa Electric Company Power Plant. Because of the warm weather, the manatees chose not to come in too close, but it was still interesting to view the many other fish species swimming in the area. The air conditioned museum is also an interesting place to visit.
 
The rest of the afternoon was spent just resting or visiting, and of course we incorporated our happy hour in with that as well.
Supper was on our own, and that evening we played bingo in the social hall. Phyllis Clinton and Lloyd Wright were the two big winners. Those two were unstoppable!
 
Sunday morning, following our continental breakfast, our weekend of fun and fellowship came to a close, and we headed out for home. We hope to see all of you again in about three weeks at the Florida State Rally in Orlando.