Florida Crackers Chapter of FMCA: March 2017 Moore Haven Rally

March 2017 Rally

North Lake Estates RV Resort, Moore Haven, FL

President's Message:

Our March Rally at North Lakes RV Resort in Moore Haven was well attended and all had a good time. The weather really cooperated and, although we were spread out, everything was handled in the great Crackers style. Karin and Jim did a truly excellent job pulling the rally together with the meatball heros on Monday night and a Shepherd’s Pie & Corned Beef and Cabbage dinner Wednesday for St. Pat’s Day. Tuesday’s casserole breakfast was done by Sandy & Tom and on Thursday Lynn & Al did the egg, bacon & sausage breakfast. Karin & Jim also treated us to a Movie night that included homemade popcorn. It was very enjoyable for all.

We look forward to seeing you at the April Rally in Jekyll Island from 4/10 to 4/14/17. Safe travels to all.

Gene

Although Norm & I weren’t able to attend this rally due to my knee replacement, I knew I could count on our great members to provide plenty of photos of the good times they shared this month. They didn’t let me down.

Food started off with a bang when Jim & Karin provided a Meatball Parm Hero Night in the pavilion on the first evening. Activities during the week included several couples playing shuffle board one day and four playing golf another. Some ventured to the nearby casino as well. Typical outside shopping was probably pretty limited this trip as the campground was at least 25 miles to any shopping areas. I’m guessing a lot of the husbands might have smiled at that news. However, many of you might be jealous when you see the potato burger that Gene discovered being served at the Seminole Casino. All I can say is, "OMG! Can I come next time?"

The March rally had a new couple participating. I was so pleased when first-time visitors Wayne & Gail wrote me an e-mail shortly after the rally began saying they were really enjoying our great group and had already decided to join our club. From everything I’ve heard, our Crackers loved them just as much so Norm & I are looking forward to meeting them in person next season.

St. Patrick’s Day was celebrated early on Wednesday night in the large clubhouse when Jim & Karin provided corned beef and cabbage as well as shepherd’s pie topped off with Publix-made Irish soda bread. Jim tells me that was a particular hit. Everyone dressed the part and enjoyed playing a St. Patrick’s trivia game. There was so much leftover food from both meals that heavy appetizer night was eliminated so they could again enjoy these yummy treats again.

Jim & Karin were so thoughtful they even sent a care package home with Faith & Jim so Norm & I could enjoy their St. Patrick’s tradition as well. Although Faith & Jim were willing to be our catering van, that poor couple had quite the exciting time on their way home. First their battery died while still at the campground. After patiently waiting three hours for AAA, they were finally on the road again only to blow a tire further down the road necessitating many more hours of waiting for another AAA rescue. When Faith called us around 7:30 PM that night to tell us about the food, they had yet to arrive home. Knowing those dear people were totally exhausted at that point, we made arrangements to pick up the care package the next day. Guess what tonight’s supper is going to be!

After the group filled their bellies on Thursday night, our Crackers enjoyed a Movie Night watching “Nine Lives” on the big screen while munching on popcorn. Jim & Karin also made a valiant effort to arrange an air boat excursion for the group but were totally frustrated that the many e-mails and voice mails were ignored. What a shame as I know this would have been a highlight for all.

Our host and hostess also appreciated the breakfast help they received during this rally from Tom & Sandy and Lynn & Al. How fortunate we are to have so many great members always willing to help whenever and wherever needed. And speaking of appreciation, an especially big thank you to Jim & Karin for hosting this rally. I have heard nothing but rave reviews on the excellent job they did all week long.

A big thank you to everyone who shared their photos. I got quite a few to document this rally and it looks like we missed a really great time. We’re looking forward to seeing many of you in April.