Tim Buchholz (12344)
Florida Pelicans – President
Well Connie and I just got home [2 hours ago] from the Region Five Rally, held in Dillard, Georgia. Gary & Wanda Smith, I need to say it here, you folks are “exceptional” leaders and organizers. The rally location was perfect with fall colors and the weather was beautiful each day. The sites visited and the food were really enjoyed by us all. I can’t remember ever having a prime rib dinner at a rally. The highlight for me was attending the Georgia Mountain Fair. The Lee Greenwood show was outstanding. This 78-year-old performer is still bringing his fans to their feet. Along with the fact that he is a patriot makes him my kind of guy. Gary, Wanda and all those folks that assisted, a job well done. Thank you for a grand experience. Greg & Margie Harrop, our State Directors, arrived at Dillard early for planning purposes, but were called home as they had a son pass unexpectedly. Our prayers and hearts go out to you.
In my last article, I provided an update on several of our members that have dealt with medical issues. I’m sorry to say that two of those folks, Andy Hamor and Roger Mercier, have passed away in the last week. A third long-standing member, Neil O’Reilly, passed away in July. Roger was our Vice President and the most senior member of the Pelicans; he was charter member #32 having joined in March of 2001.
On a brighter side, the Pelicans will hold their annual Christmas Luncheon again this year at the Audubon Country Club in Naples. Our Pelican Buddy, Carol Hussey, continues to arrange this for us. Then we are holding our first “Ghost Host” rally in Auburndale, Florida on December 12. From there we look forward to the Tampa SuperShow as usual in January 2022.
We continue to hold 4th Monday luncheons for the Pelicans, buddies and any non-member that is inclined to join us. The venue changes each month. Therefore, it’s best for you to contact Pat Hartman, the coordinator at 239-470-1074 or dwhartman@comcast.net. Also, the NKK luncheons will again start up in December 2021 thru March 2022 at the Golden Corral, 4690 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers. The hosts here are Ron & Wanda Llewellyn, our International Directors, with the Pelicans assisting in this gathering each month.
Again, if you’re taking the time to read this, are not yet a member of a Newmar chapter, and reside here in South Florida during the winter, we would love to have you join the Florida Pelicans. More members mean more ideas, more friends, and more fun for us that are out of the workforce.
In closing, I trust that you each had a very blessed and thankful Thanksgiving. Connie, I and the entire Pelican membership wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May 2022 bring better times for the Country and to each of us.
We can be reached at Tim.buchholz80@gmail.com Cell: 239-464-0219.
