Christmas Party Update and Announcement

NORTHERN AREA CHRISTMAS PARTY 2014

The Christmas Party for the Northern Area was held at Mullet’s Dining in Nappanee on Saturday, December 13.  It went off without a hitch in contrast to last year’s party which had to be canceled at the last minute due to terrible winter snowy weather.  We had twenty-seven attendees all of whom ate too much.  Mullet’s Dining is a small hall which is owned and operated by an Amish family and they fed us as though we were hungry field hands.  We had tossed salad, fried chicken, roast beef, green beans, noodles, turkey dressing, mashed potatoes, and a half dozen yummy flavors of homemade pies.

It was a nice opportunity to meet and greet old friends and make a couple of new ones.  The ladies had organized a sing-a-long and a gift exchange.  We hung around after eating for most of the afternoon and yakked and yakked and yakked.  It seems that when the Hoozie Cruisys get together there is never a scarcity of conversation.

NORTHERN AREA CHRISTMAS PARTY 2015

Christmas in November!  Yes you read that correct.  The
northern group is going to try something new for 2015.
Our hope is that by moving to Nov., many will still be
around before moving on to warmer climates.
So, mark your calendar Nov. 7, 2015, 1:00 pm,
Mullets ( Amish meal all you can eat), Nappanee, In.
Hosts: Tilmann, Lisle, O'Dell

Attention All Quilters!

Hi...It's time to think about the raffle quilt for GLAMA.  I've attached some information about this project.  If you can help, let me know.  I would like to have the squares back by January 15.  If you know anyone in our group who would like to participate, let me know or have them contact me at 219-743-2929.  Thanks and have a wonderful winter.   Connie

For additional information click below:

Quilt Instructions

Quilt Pattern 1

Quilt Pattern 2

2014 Christmas Parties

Northern Christmas Party

The Christmas Party for the northern area will be held Saturday December 13^th at 1:00 PM.  Again this year it will be at Mullet’s Dining in Nappanee, 72280 County Road 100, hosted by Doug and Betty Tilmann and Steve and Cassie Lisle.  The cost is $15.50 per person which includes drinks, tax and gratuity.  A delicious meal is planned consisting of family style fried chicken, swiss steak, mashed potatoes & gravy, green beans, salad, noodles, rolls, pies and coffee or tea.  Please send you reservations by November 28 with you check made out to Cassie Lisle, 5655 S 600 W-57, Columbia City, IN 46725.  Christmas Gift Exchange – Each person bring a gift (max $5.00).  Don’t miss this party as the meal is always delicious.  If you have any questions please call Cassie at 260-213-1990.

Southern Christmas Party 

The Christmas Party for the Southern area will be held on Tuesday December 2 at 2:30 PM.  Everyone will gather at the Golden Coral located at the southwest corner of I-69 Exit 226 (Old Exit 26) IN-109, Scatterfield Road.  The afternoon hour will allow for a better travel time.  Golden Coral’s Early Bird Special starts at 2:00 PM for about $8.00 which includes your drink.  Tell the casher that you are with the Hoosier Cruisers.  Please contact Ross Boyer if you plan to attend so he has a count for the restaurant – mrboyer@att.net or phone 765-606-7994.  We look forward to seeing all of you who can attend.

Thank You and Update from the O'Dells
I received this from Bea and David O’Dell and they requested that I put it on the blog.  Please keep David and Bea in your thoughts and prayers during this time of treatment.  Thanks Steve Ruster

David and I can’t begin to tell you how much we have appreciated the cards, prayers, and the Thinking of You book from the Sept. Rally.  It brought tears to our eyes.  David is doing OK, so far no big side effects from the radiation other than being tired.  Trying to get him to take a nap is like putting a two year old down for a nap.  I have him on Vit E for hotflashes and that seems to be working, plus Vit B, the doctor is really pleased so far.  He goes to radiation M-F and will be done Nov. 18^th.  Again, we thank you so much for thinking of us, we miss you all.  As I tell him we have next year.  Peace, B and David

Fantastic Fall Rally

Wow!  The last Hoosier Cruisers rally was another success.  The Hoosier Cruisers appreciate the efforts of Harry and Connie Decausemaker who stepped up to the challenge of organizing a rally for October.  Members arrived and setup camp at the Parke County Fairgrounds. It was a pleasure to have roomy sites that were level. After greeting each other, participants ate a delicious dinner of chicken and noodles which was great.

On Friday, members had a free day that allowed them to visit and shop all the vendors in Rockville and the surrounding small towns.  As you can imagine several members found surprising treasures

which were purchased.
Late afternoon many of the campers decided to have dinner at the Turkey Run Lodge.  The lodge had a buffet of fresh produce for salad, and a good selection of sides and main entrees.  No one left hungry.  After everyone arrived back at the fairgrounds, a campfire was started.  Dick Schumaker used his propane torch; so in no time the campfire was blazing.  It was a great time to share stories of events and trips that had occurred over the summer.  As eyelids got heavy, people slowly returned to their coaches to prepare for another day of fun.

Saturday began with a pitch-in breakfast at the campground.  After eating the members continued to explore the area. 

Bridgeton was one of the interesting towns that had some unique crafts, displays, and arts.  There seemed to be something for everyone and everyone’s interest or hobby.


Of coarse another attraction for the rally were the covered bridges.  In the welcome packets there was a driving tour to visit bridges in the area.  After all were were visiting during the Covered Bridge Festival.

After shopping the Decausemakers had planned a “happy hour” which was also a “show and tell” where shoppers shared their adventures for the day.

In the evening, the Rally Masters, provided ham for the pitch-in dinner.  As usual the meal was fantastic because there are many excellent cooks who are members of the club.

As the rally wound down, Bettie Wessel provided devotions on Sunday morning that reminded those who attended the rally that many blessings occur to them each and everyday.

AGAIN MANY THANKS GO TO THE DECAUSEMAKERS FOR A FUN, RELAXING RALLY!

Hoosier Cruisers October Rally

Come and join your Rally Masters Connie and Harry Decausemaker at the Rockville Indiana Covered Bridge Festival October 9^th through 12^th, 2014.  Camping will be located at the Park County Fairgrounds which has nice large level sites.

The Covered Bridge Festival always proves to be an interesting place for food, shopping and interesting things from yesteryear.  The usual arrival date of Thursday October 9^th will find a good crowd of fellow Hoosier Cruisers waiting to join you for a fun weekend.  Earlier arrival is certainly an option just indicate so on the registration form.  Thursday evening all will enjoy a Chicken Noodle dinner at the Fairgrounds.

Friday morning there will be a pitch in breakfast that will fortify you for a long day of shopping and sightseeing in Rockville and the surrounding area.  The covered bridges in Park County take center stage for the festival.  There are many to see and travel across. Of course excellent food can be had at any of the various areas for lunch and/or dinner.  Of course “Shop Till You Drop” is the operative word. 

Saturday is another day of shopping and sightseeing followed by a pitch in dinner with ham provided.  The rally will conclude Sunday morning with our traditional coffee, juice and donuts followed by a worship service. 

So come and enjoy a fun weekend in Park County Indiana.

For a printable registrations form click October Registration Form.

Great Rally in Greenville, OH

It was a great time to gather with friends at the Darke County Fairgrounds.  Bob and Mable Heath, Jane Clashman, and Beth Bailey organized an event that was enjoyed by all.  After arriving on Thursday, members ate supper at the Fairlawn Steak House and swapped "tall tales" about what they had been doing during the summer.

After breakfast on Friday, the club took a tour of the KitchenAid Plant. KitchenAid began making quality kitchen appliances in the early 1900's and continue a successful line of innovative appliances today. It was an excellent tour and we were amazed at all the different colors that are available for mixers.  Mixer can be purchased in over 70 different colors.

Following the factory tour, members visited the KitchenAid store located in downtown Greenville.  The store had discounted appliances and accessories and some of the members took advantage of the bargains.  Everyone got to participate in the preparation of apple turnovers.

As you can see Doug Tilmann was a willing participant. All the ingredients were ready to go and after the turnovers were made the staff baked each of the desserts which were later enjoyed with ice cream.

Friday evening the rally masters and assistant rally masters provided an excellent meal that included chicken and noodles, mashed potatoes, green beans, and dessert. Great Meal!

After dinner Steve Kincaid chaired the business meeting where the slate of officers was presented.  All members will have a chance to approve or reject the present slate by responding by email or mail.  At the meeting George Myers, Indiana Area Vice President and his wife were introduced.

Saturday began with a pitch-in breakfast which is always fun.  Later, the members carpooled to the Garst Museum which included many interesting exhibits.  Two of the highlights included an interesting collection of memorabilia celebrating the life of Lowell Thomas and adventurer who was a pioneer in radio and television.  A second person that was honored was Annie Oakley who had an interesting career as a sharpshooter. Othe exhibits honored the service men and women, and many artifacts from the past.

Saturday evening the rally masters had arranged a catered dinner with fried chicken and all the sides.  Again, the food was excellent.

And what would a rally be without a campfire.  Bob and other members kept the fire stoked.  It was a great evening sitting around the campfire and sharing stories.

The rally ended with pastries, juice, and coffee followed by dovations which were led by Bettie Wessel and singing which was led by Betty Behnken.

Many thanks go to the rally masters, assistant rally masters, and all the members who helped make this another fantastic rally. THANKS!

Highlights of the National Director's Report

Jerry Hardacre submitted the following National Director's Report from Redmond Oregon.

• Bylaw Amendment - past presidents would not be required to attend Executive Board meetings - motion failed
• Financial Report - FMCA cash position is $962,418.00, investment account is $9,000,000
• Membership - 76,397 members, FMCA is still losing members, but at a slower rate
• Policy and Procedure - mileage allowance for motorhome travel to double the IRS rate for automobiles and Chapter and Associate Chapter Operations must be consistent with National Bylaws
• Reinstatement of FMCAssist- become effective October 1, 2014 - details in the October FMCA Magazine
• Upcoming Conventions contingent on negotiations - 
• 2016 Winter, Perry, GA - Summer, Syracuse, NY
• 2017 Winter, Pomona, CA - Summer, Indianapolis, IN
• 2018 Winter, Perry, GA - Summer, Gillette, WY

To view the complete report click National Director's Report

Election of Officers 2015

At the September Rally the club will elect officers for the upcoming year.  The following slate of nominations has been submitted by the nominating committee who has contacted all the members and they have stated their willingness to serve our organization.

President. - Steve Ruster

Exec. Vice President - Dick Schumaker

Secretary - Betty Tilmann

Treasurer - Mable Heath

Nat’l Dirirector - Jerry Hardacre

Alt. Nat’l Director - Bettie Wessel

Northern Vice President - Steve Kincaid

Central Vice President - Carol Hardacre

Southern Vice President - Judy Hohl

Nominations can also be made from the floor.

The slate of nominations was presented at the September Rally.  Members will be emailed or mailed the slate of nominations and are asked to respond by email or mail as to whether they accept or reject the slate of officers.

Please respond to Beth Bailey:

bbailey915@aol.com

or

P.O. Box 28,  Daleville, IN  47334

September Rally

Darke County Fairgrounds in Greenville Ohio will be the site of the September rally on September 11^th through 14^th.  Rally Master Bob and Mable Heath along with Assistant Rally Masters Jane Clashman and Beth Bailey have planned a very interesting and fun weekend.  Dinner Thursday evening will be held at Fairlawn Steak House. 

Friday morning the group will tour the Kitchen Aid factory.  Remember, that Kitchen Aid requires that you not have open toed shoes nor high heels on during the tour.  This tour should enlighten us as to just how our Kitchen Aid appliances are put together.  Late that morning we will make a visit to the Kitchen Aid Experience.  This is the place where they hold their cooking classes and is also the outlet store.  All indications are we will be making apple dumplings.  While the apple dumplings are baking everyone will have lunch on their own.  But just remember when you return from lunch, voila Hot Apple Dumplings with ice cream for dessert!!

There will also be a visit to the Garst Museum.  This facility is the home of the Darke County Historical Society.  There are many displays going back to the Treaty of Greene Ville.  More notable displays include the life of Annie Oakley and of Radio Broadcaster Lowell Thomas among many other displays.

Friday and Saturday morning breakfasts will be a carry in with a special arrangement.  On Friday those who’s last names begin with A thru L will bring breakfast for the group.  Then on Saturday morning last names M thru Z will bring breakfast for the group.

Friday evenings dinner will be provided by the Rally Masters and Assistants.  This should be another great dinner.  After Friday nights dinner there will be the Fall Business meeting.  Saturday nights dinner will be catered. 

The rally will conclude Sunday morning with coffee, juice and donuts followed by devotions.  Don’t miss this Rally, you will enjoy it.

Click  Registration for form.

Update on Members

Just wanted to pass on to all of you some information and an update regarding our members.

Duane Stoner is recovering fine from his open heart surgery.  According to Lois, she has to tug on the reins some because Duane is feeling so good that he wants to do too much.  He will be starting his rehab phase beginning July 1^st.  We continue to wish him well.

According to all that I have heard, Dave O’Dell is getting along fine.  They are making plans for some upcoming travel.

Allen Heltzel is progressing in his recovery and will be discharged to a rehab center soon.  After being on bed rest for that last month that alone would require rehab.  But with his gallbladder problems having taken its toll on his health they felt that was the best choice at this time. 

I have some sad news regarding one of our former members.  Danny and Mary Biddle were in a serious accident in their motor home on US-127 near Ithaca Michigan.  According to reports the accident occurred Tuesday afternoon.  Dense fog contributed to the accident that critically injured Danny.  Mary suffered minor injuries.  I was told this morning that they were going to remove Danny from life support.  Please keep Mary and the family in your thoughts and prayers.

Christmas in July – Merry Christmas Everyone

 Hoosier Cruisers July Rally [July 10^th – 13^th] will be held at New Castle, Indiana at Cornerstone Retreat Family Campground.  Rally Master Bob and Mable Heath along with their Assistant Rally Masters Dale and Wilma Elliott have a wonderful time planned for us.  The activities look very interesting and everyone will enjoy themselves. 

Each of you need to call the campground with your reservations for the week-end.  Cornerstone Retreat Family Campground can be reached at 765-987-8700.  There is a limited number of 50 Amp. sites available so call A.S.A.P. and reserve you site now.

Activities planned include a trip to the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame – what Hoosier won’t enjoy this.  There is also a venture to the Henry County Historical Museum.  Both of these will be on Saturday.  On Friday there are excursions to Warm Glow Candle Shop, Fountain Acres Foods, Millers Dry Goods and Amish Cheese Shop.   

Most of us will arrive on Thursday the 10^th and get set up.  Thursday evening there will be a dinner at the campground at 6:00 PM. 

Friday and Saturday morning we have a pitch-in breakfast.

Friday evening’s dinner will be enjoyed by all at Stacks in New Castle. 

Saturday evening at 6:00 PM we will all enjoy a traditional Christmas Dinner and Party.  Ham, Turkey, Mashed Potatoes and Gravy and Dressing will be provided.  Everyone is asked to bring a side or two that fits the occasion. 

Remember this is Christmas in July, so come to have a Merry Time and be prepared to decorate you coach and campsite.  Also, for Saturday nights dinner dress for the occasion.  Christmas is a time for giving, so there will be a box for non-perishable food which will be donated to the food pantry.  Come prepared to fill up the box.

Send you reservations to Mable Heath at the address listed on the reservation form.

Click on July Registration for a printable form.

Beautiful Weather and Fun Times at Vincennes

The May Rally started off with high anticipation with members arriving on Tuesday through Friday. A total of 25 motorhomes arrived and camped on relatively level sites. Wednesday night the club traveled to Montana Mikes and had a great meal and great service. One could easily tell that everyone had missed getting together.

 The rally began on Friday with two tours.  Hoosier Cruisers traveled to Princeton to the Toyota plant where they saw Toyota Sierras being assembled.  It was amazing to see all the robots that were used to assemble and paint each vehicle.  We traveled on a tram and saw how the parts arrived just in time to each station.  It was also amazing that some to the parts were transported by trams that were driven without drivers.  It was evident that quality is an important goal for all workers and that several safeguards were built into the manufacturing process. 

The second tour was to the Red Skeleton Museum.  The museum had many displays and video clips that helps us remember what a great entertainer Red Skeleton was.  Everyone chuckled during the tour at the antics of the many characters that Red portrayed. 

Saturday began with a pancake breakfast which was held in a shelter.  All who participated seemed to

enjoy their breakfast.  After breakfast Hoosiers Cruisers could choose from a variety of interesting points of interest in the area.  There was a quilting driving tour, many historic sites, shopping, and botanical gardens.  The George Rogers Clark National Historic Park, Groseland (President William Henry Harrison’s home), and the Old French House and Indian Museum were popular.  Members also

enjoyed the Azalea Path Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. The azaleas were in full bloom and were a delight to see. Each night members gathered around a campfire to end each day of perfect weather and fun.

Sunday ended the rally with donuts and a church service lead by Carol Hardacre.  Music was provided by Melanie Boyer, Jerry Hardacre, and Hal Ashton.

Bettie and Greg Wessel want to thank their assistant rally masters Lois and Chuck Blodgett, and Judy Hohl and Rem Remley for all their efforts in providing and wonderful rally.

Update on Ernie Clashman

Obituary and service information for Ernie Clashman.

A celebration of life service will be held at St. Johns Lutheran Church, 310 East 53^rd St, Anderson, Indiana on Saturday May 10, 2014 at 12:00 Noon.  Visitation will be from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon.  Ernie’s obituary can be read using the link below.  In lieu of flowers, the family request memorial contribution may be made to donor’s favorite charity.

http://www.heraldbulletin.com/obituaries/x1445048808/Ernest-Edmond-Clashman

Sad News to Report

Sadly I have to report that Ernie Clashman passed away last night in Tampa Florida.  He was being treated for at least three weeks in a Tampa Hospital.  Ernie was an avid ambassador for FMCA as well as for our Hoosier Cruiser Chapter.  I was always amazed at his passion for the history of our chapter as well as FMCA.  We have truly lost a great friend and asset of our chapter.

Please keep Jane and her family in your thoughts and prayers.  Arrangements will be announced when we receive them.

Steve

Hoosier Cruiser May Rally

Southern Indiana Welcomes Hoosier Cruisers - May 1^st – 4^th

Knox County Park, 3500 N. Lower Fort Knox Road, Vincennes, IN 47591

What a great way to jump into spring, take a scenic trip to southern Indiana. All club members and guests are invited to join in the fun in Vincennes, IN.  Rally Masters Bettie & Greg Wessel, Lois & Chuck Blodgett, and Judy Hohl & Rem Remley have reserved the entire Knox County Park (Ouabache Trails Park) for our camping.  All sites have 30 amp. electricity and water, and a dump station is conveniently located in the park. Because
the park is in the rolling hills of Indiana some sites have a slight slope and members may want to bring blocks for leveling. The club will have access to a shelter where coffee will be available every morning.  The park can be easily accessed from US 41. To assist you with your arrival use the map included and watch for HC signs as you near the park.

Sooo…..what’s planned for this spring celebration?  Arrival of coaches is planned for Thursday and for those who want to eat out, members can gather at the Ponderosa restaurant.  A room has been reserved for our use. After breakfast on your own on Friday, members will begin with a cup of “joe” in the shelter and prepare for the day’s activities.  The day will be a full day for those who have elected to take tours to the Red Skelton Museum and the Toyota factory in Princeton. Members will be divided into two groups with one group traveling to the factory in the morning and the second group traveling to the museum. Groups will then visit the opposite attractions in the afternoon.  That evening members may opt for dinner at Fazoli’s. After dinner, weather permitting, we will have a campfire back at the campground.

Saturday will be a less structured day and to kick-off your day we will begin with a pancake breakfast prepared by the rally masters. After breakfast you will want to plan your day by choosing from a variety of activities or enjoy a lazy day at the campground and visit with friends.  Listed below are some of the offerings that participants may enjoy.

                For our history buffs

§  George Rogers Clark National Historical Park – Free

§  Indiana Military Museum - $4.00

§  Grouseland, home of U.S. President William Henry Harrison - $4.00

§  Old French House & Indian Museum -  $2.00 (Reservation required)

§  Old Cathedral Complex - $1.50

§  Auto tour of historic sites-audio description provided using your smartphone

Shopping

·         Visit the historic downtown area

Quilting

·         Take a scenic drive through the surrounding areas to view over 130 hand-painted quilt blocks in Gibson County

The rally masters will be more than willing to help you locate and provide additional information about your selected travels on Saturday.  Just ask and we will be at your service

.

Following the activities for Saturday Hoosier Cruisers will dine at Pea Fections in downtown Vincennes.  The owners graduated from culinary school and members are in for a treat.  The meal will include sandwiches, sides, and a premium desserts from the menu.  The soups and desserts are from “scratch”.  After dinner, Steve Ruster, Hoosier Cruisers President, will hold a business meeting.

Sunday will be the last day of the rally. Coffee and donuts will be served in the shelter, and devotions will follow.  After saying our goodbyes all will pack up and head back home with memories of an exciting and fun filled get-together.

The Rally Masters are looking forward to seeing you all at this rally.

                               

Click here for May Registration Form.

Click here for map and directions.

Perry Family Reunion Early Bird

Just a reminder that the Early Bird Registration for the Perry Family Reunion is good through January 27 – Next Monday.  Save money by registering early.  Online Registration is at:  www.fmca.com/conventions/perry-2014/register

All of you who are planning to attend the Perry Family Reunion please contact me so that we can arrive and be parked as a group.  I am planning to meet in the holding area on Saturday March 15^th then be parked on Sunday the 16^th.  If you would like to meet earlier please let me know.

Please contact me at hsruster@yahoo.com

Thanks Steve Ruster

Florida Winter Gather

Greetings to my fellow Hoosier Cruisers.  I hope this finds you all having a good winter season.  For those of you in the Florida area I would like to invite you to our annual Hoosier Cruiser Winter Gathering luncheon.  On Tuesday February 11 we will have a lunch and social gathering at Sun N’ Fun RV Resort in Sarasota Florida.  We have the room from 11:00-3:00pm.  Our chef will set a private buffet and has presented excellent food in the past.  As I must provide a head count I would appreciate knowing who will be in attendance by Friday Feb. 7^th.  We have had a great time catching up with everyone in the past and really look forward to seeing you all again this year.

As I may not have everyone’s email please pass the word along so we don’t miss anyone in the area.  Sun N’ Fun is located just off and east of I-75 at exit 210.

While the resort is currently saying that the grounds are full at that time I may be able to help with reservations if you would like to stay a few days.  Give me a call if you desire a site and I will surely do what I can.

You can reach me at the contact below:
Rick Hahn
rlhahn1@gmail.com

Member Update

Sadly, George Dodrill passed away on November 16.  Most of you have already received this information in the email that Ernie Clashman sent out but there are a few who are not on email.  Please keep Laurel and her family in your thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.