The Tilmann's and Gebhart's wowed the members who participated in the July Hoosier Cruiser Rally in Auburn, IN. The table decorations, food, and gifts were over the top. Many members were so anxious to attend that the arrived a day early on Wednesday. The rallymasters had arranged for camping at the DeKalb County Fairgrounds. The sites were shaded and had electricity. The club also had use of a meeting room that was air conditioned which made for comfortable meals and entertainment.
Thursday, members were able to tour the Sechler pickle plant. Everyone had to wear hair bonnets which are so..... attractive. The guide was very informative about the entire process and everyone was invited to try the wide variety of pickles. We all left with pickles; some even left with a case of pickles. That evening the rallymasters served and excellent dinner of pulled pork with BBQ sauce that was Marcie Bayman's secret recipe. WOW, what a great dinner. Each evening members gathered under the trees and shared their stories with one another. Betty, the shopper, had gifts and prizes that were given out during the rally. I think everyone wore smiles during each of the evening meals.
Auburn has many fine museums including the Cord Duesenberg, National Automotive and Truck, Kruse's National Military History, and the Auto/Carriage Museum. Hoosier Cruisers took advantage of this opportunity to learn more about the automotive industry, and the history of transportation.
Don and Lou Ann Orman found a rare 1936 Ford at the Automotive and Truck Museum. This car was one of only 6 that were produced in stainless steel. The museum also had one of each of the 16 model Fords that were produced in 1936.
Friday, members attended the "Pied Pipper" play which was on the fairgrounds and the actors were youth. It was a fun play with the children playing mice that had taken over the village and the adult villagers.
Saturday evening the club had another great meal that was a pitch-in and the entertainment was provided by Doug Tilmann. He had collected a wide variety of pictures and video clips that were humorous, serious, and sometimes tear jerking. The group enjoyed his presentation as evidenced by the laughter of the members as the pictures were projected.
It should be noted that Jack and Darlene were promoted from co- rally masters to rally masters by Doug and Betty. You can see that they were awarded crowns for their efforts.
Sunday, ended with a continental breakfast and devotions. Bettie Wessel's devotion included the hymn "How Firm a Foundation", which was based on the "Seven Promises of God".
Everyone said their goodbyes and headed home. Many thanks go to Doug and Betty Tilmann, and Jack and Darlene Gebhart for their planning efforts in providing an outstanding rally in July.
Thank you!
