FLORIDA  SUNSHINE WINNIES
March 2004 Outing
By: Fran Schultz

The Florida Sunshine Winnies had a great time at the March Rally, which was held at the Central Florida Fairgrounds at Orlando, Florida from the 10^th thru the 16^th. The theme for this year’s Rally was “Strawberry Festival” which was reflected in the decorations, dress, and dessert.

Since our chapter was assigned the parking detail we arrived on Wednesday to plan and mark the field in preparation for the expected crowd.  Seven coaches camped Wednesday night outside the main grounds since access was not permitted until Thursday. 

Parking of Rally attendees started mid-day on Thursday.  The first several hours were very busy since approximately a hundred coaches assembled outside the grounds awaiting access to the parking area.  After the initial group was parked the pace relaxed to a more manageable level.  More coaches arrived on Friday and Saturday for an approximate total of 380 coaches

The formal opening of the Rally was held at noon on Saturday the 13^th .  After opening ceremonies and remarks by WIT and Rally officials, dessert of strawberry shortcake was served.

During the reminder of the Rally numerous presentations , seminars and  games were conducted that provided activities for everyone.  The new Winnebago and Itasca coaches were on display by area dealers.  Several sales were finalized during the event.

The Sunshine Winnies held their monthly business meeting on Sunday, where upcoming events were discussed.  The next outing will be at Sun Coast RV Park in Lake Park. Georgia.

The Rally’s catered meals and entertainment were well attended and enjoyed by all.  The weather was perfect except for the final day when rain showers were beginning to develop. But everything considered the Rally was a big success.

After the March Rally, which ended on the 16^th a SHOW AND TELL was held at Suncoast RV Dealer, in Winter Garden, Florida.

Jeff Farah, General manager, is sponsoring the  following Florida Chapters: Seaside Winnies, Mid-Fla Winnies and the Florida Sunshine Winnies. The chapters had the Show and Tell for customers who were coming in to look at Winnebagos and Itascas.

A meal of corn beef and cabbage was provided by Suncoast RV Dealer. Group pictures ere taken and will be sent in to WIT.  Seven Coaches attended the Show and Tell program as well as Eastern Area Rep. John and Marlin Fischer.

Tom Tuttle, President