By Mary Powell, F63960
December 2010
Just think about it! For two decades, the Happy (OK) Wanderers have enjoyed rallies, fellowship, friendships, great food, unbelievable entertainment, enticing tours, and wonderful places to camp and have fun. More than 152 rallies and 19 Christmas luncheons have provided great memories for chapter members — in Oklahoma and other states. More than 492 people have shared chapter fellowship during those years. And we are still planning rallies and welcoming new members.
The 20th anniversary rally of the Happy (OK) Wanderers chapter was filled with humorous and remarkable memories from the past, and with wonderful new memories made each day. Thirty-five coaches rolled into Twin Fountains RV Park in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, for the rally, held May 19 to 22, 2011. In addition, 12 current and former chapter members chose to drive in daily for the events. Many arrived on Monday and Tuesday before the rally began to explore Oklahoma City and to share in the fellowship.
All were greeted by one of the hosts, Rod and Ginger Cleavelin, who delivered goody bags with maps, activity schedules, and spring flower seeds. Frank and Sandy Taber, Ron and Betty Wadley, Dave and Janie Ruttman, and Bob and Donna Waller of the chapter’s anniversary host committee made plans that filled every moment with chances for memories.
Our salad potluck dinner was a feast on Thursday evening. It was followed by a rambunctious game of card bingo, with winners taking proud possession of gift baskets assembled by Sandy Taber and her daughter, Suzi.
Biscuits, sausage, and gravy — along with a shot of coffee readied by Carl Threlkeld — prepared the group for a busy Friday. Chapter president Judy Janicke presided over a chapter business meeting, which was held following breakfast.
Inspirations Tea Room in nearby Edmond, Oklahoma, was the site for a ladies’ luncheon in a relaxed atmosphere. Following the fellowship, many shopped at the on-site store for olive oils, teas, jewelry, and antiques.
Manuel Jackson, chapter founder and charter president, presented a guided tour of the Oklahoma State Capitol during the afternoon, his second narrated tour for our group. Manuel shared historical and architectural insights as members visited the Oklahoma Senate, House, and Supreme Court chambers. Paintings and sculpture were noted, plus information about Oklahomans who have made a difference.
“Grilling kings” Bob Waller and Frank Taber prepared hamburgers and hot dogs for our Friday dinner. Following the ice cream sundaes for dessert, Frank led the group in mind games that challenged our four-member teams. But someone always met the challenge and was presented with a gift basket prize.
Saturday morning, breakfast — including those shots of Carl’s coffee — once again provided the momentum for a day of sight-seeing and fellowship. Choir practice followed Saturday breakfast.
Amidst anniversary balloons, an anniversary cake, and barbecue, the 20th anniversary dinner on Saturday evening was attended by 90 people, including two family members’ guests and former chapter president Joe and Jeanie Trindle. Five charter members were present to reminisce. Manuel Jackson and his wife, Ramona; former chapter presidents Jim and Lyda Walker and Earl and Mary Powell; former alternate national director Dean and Bunnie Morgensen; and former treasurers Betty Shedrick and Lois Austin related memories. Some tall tales described the chapter’s early days of always camping in Oklahoma state parks, while others referenced recent rallies. Even a couple of our DA Award recipients, Gary Waldron and Ron Wadley, were spotlighted.
Rod Sartwell, former chapter president and current northern region vice president of FMCA’s Six-State Rally Association, presented current president Judy Janicke with a certificate from FMCA recognizing our chapter’s 20th year. Following the presentation, Frank Taber distributed door prizes, and anniversary cake was enjoyed.
Dave Ruttman’s devotional and the Happy (OK) Wanderers Choir ushered in a wonderful Sunday morning, which began with a continental breakfast and culminated in a surplus food auction. The 20th Anniversary Rally came to a close, with plans already made for more rallies and fellowship in our future.