Tim Buchholz (12344)
Florida Pelicans – President
Hello to all you Nemarians in North America. And yes, that includes the ‘Hawaii Aloha Aires’, our newest chapter. It’s the early part of April as you read this Legacy Edition, but it’s mid-February as I try to put some words in print for it. Low and behold, my February/March edition just arrived in the mail.
The aftermath of hurricane IAN is still being dealt with by too many of us here in SW Florida. It’s been five months since D [Devastation] Day, and things are getting better except for dealing with the Insurance providers who are in the business of trying to shortchange us on our damage claims. Short of dealing with the legal profession, they seem to just try to wear you down.
Moving on. The Tampa SuperShow was a great event for the Pelicans & Buddies. We ushered in 25 coaches which parked together in our ever-increasing U-shaped corner of the Newmar camp. Gary & Wanda Smith and Greg & Margie Harrop went out of their way to accommodate getting us parked in our usual configuration. Our annual Rib Fest, held in the tent, was a huge success. We fed 89 folks with ribs, pulled chicken and a grand assortment of side dishes and desserts brought by the attendees. We are on track to do it again in 2024.
The Florida State Social, hosted by the Harrops and held in the tent on Thursday of the show, brought in a number of first time Newmar owners to chat with and sign on as members. I would like to acknowledge and thank the following NKK folks who are now also Florida Pelicans: Bud & Sue Goetzinger; Ivan & Jeanne Rodbell; Mark & LuAnne Schendel; Duane Paige & Laurie Hunt; Jack & Kathy Jamison; Charles & Diane Blake; Gaston & Monque Bergeron; Rick & Holly Benson; Steve & Avery Stone; Charles & Diane McCullough and John & Pam Hassell, who were previous State Directors. Thank you for joining our chapter. I hope you become active in the chapter and bring fresh ideas and things to do and see for all to enjoy.
Our February gig was a night out at the Palm Dinner Theater to enjoy the “Jersey Boys.” In March we are making our 20th annual trip to the Strawberry Festival for headline entertainment and strawberry shortcake in Plant city. Pat Hartman, our 1st Vice President, has been coordinating this event for several years. On April 3, [about the time you read this] we are holding our “Leaving Florida Rally” at the Upriver RV Resort in N Fort Myers. It is being hosted by Jim & Mary Kennedy, with Dave & Gretta Storrs and Rich & Cathy Queen co-hosting. Beyond that, our monthly luncheons, hosted by Susan Duchesneau, continue to have great attendance and fine venues to dine and socialize.
Those of you planning on heading out of Florida at or after Easter, go out and get that Bus shined up, serviced, stocked with your summer clothes and goods and travel safely down our highways. You have that coach that lets you enjoy the “Simple Lifestyle.” Don’t forget to take time to stay in touch with those that are important in your life. Safe travels and God Bless.
Till then Happy Trails by Newmar from your Pelicans. We can be reached at Tim.buchholz80@gmail.com Cell: 239-464-0219.
