Tim Buchholz (12344)
Florida Pelicans – President
Well, surely, I’m in trouble at this moment! As I prepare this article for our next issue of the Kountry Klub Legacy Magazine, I am a day late getting it to my Boss who does not have much time for inefficiencies and late comers. So, Tim, forget about that “year-end” bonus for 2023. Sorry Greg…
I know its year end as you peruse this current edition, but I need to address the past for just a moment. If you didn’t get to attend the International Rally, you missed out on a good time with old, current, and new friends.
Several of us left Sedalia and headed for Nashville for a couple of days, then we were invited by Dave & Gretta Storrs {Pelican Buddies} to a little out of the way RV Resort in Galax, Virginia, where we enjoyed the Bluegrass music of the local folks and more. From there, we headed for the Region Five Rally, on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Gary & Wanda Smith and those that assisted did a fantastic job of streamlining the banquet food lines so that nobody had to wait long to get food or be disturbed by folks lining up while you’re trying to eat your meal. Very good meals and plenty of activity. During the 2 rallies, the following folks signed on to be Florida Pelicans. They are Pam & Don McIntyre; Craig & Elizabeth Amiot and Todd & Pamela Morgan. Welcome to the Florida Pelicans.
As always, all good things came to an end, and we headed home to Florida. Getting out of your RV and opening the house is not part of my “Simple Lifestyle” enjoyment. After 5 1/2 months of being on the road, much needs to be done when you open up the home place. You that travel, know all about that. That’s the reason I will miss my year-end bonus for 2023.
Moving forward a bit, The Pelican Welcome Back Rally was held in the Florida Keys in early November. We could only reserve 20 sites and they were filled with folks who love the Florida Keys. Thank you to: Allen & Gerry Smith for hosting it. Assisting were Jim & Mary Kennedy and Rolf & Anne Kuhns.
In December the chapter held their annual Christmas Luncheon and gift exchange at the Audubon Country Club in Naples. It was hosted by Connie Buchholz and Carol Hussey. This gathering gets you started on the “Christmas Spirit” with the wonderful setting and Holiday decorations in place.
Now for 2024: HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL FROM YOUR FLORIDA PELICANS. The changing of the Guard starts the year. The new chapter officers will be in place. I have no doubt that each of you will do, not well, but outstanding. A “special thank you” to each of you for “stepping up” and bringing new ideas to the chapter. More importantly, I want to thank my Secretary/Treasurer, Allen & Gerry Smith for your many years of selfless service, time, and devotion to our membership. You kept the books in order and kept me on track.
The Tampa Super Show will find the Pelicans in attendance in volume. Last year we ushered in 25 coaches and fed 87 folks at our Rib Fest. Speaking of which: The 4th Annual Rib Fest is planned for Thursday evening, January 18, at 5:30 PM. It will again be held in the North Trail/Newmar Tent.
It is free to all Pelicans that are 2023/2024 paid members. If you’re signed up for the Super Show, you will still need to go to the NKK site and sign up for the Pelican Rally at the show. This is for food planning purposes. If you’re just going to attend the show for a day or 2, make it for Thursday and join us at the tent that evening. Another option is come to the show with your RV and stay in the parking lot for the evening. Non-Pelican members are welcomed to join in for a nominal fee.
February 2024, we have a rally being hosted by Gary & Susan Duchesneau, look for it on the NKK site and sign on early. Our annual Strawberry Festival rally which we have done for 23 years is in question for March 2024 as Lazydays has closed down their campground earlier this year. Finding a venue near Plant City is hard to do. Let’s see what happens here in the next edition.
In closing, thank you, Ron & Wanda Llewellyn, for your leadership as International Directors for 4+ years. It’s been a joy to ride along with you. To our Florida State Directors, Greg & Marge Harrop, the dedication, enthusiasm, and just plain fun times spent with you as my boss, will be truly memorable. It’s been a fun ride with all the great folks Connie & I met along the way.
Till then, Happy Trails by Newmar from your Florida Pelicans. We can be reached at Tim.buchholz80@gmail.com Cell: 239-464-0219.
