By Glen Perkin, F57117
September 2015
Three FMCA chapters were chartered on April 10, 1965: Michigan Knights of the Highway, Midwest Coachmen, and Northeastern.
About two years ago, Sally Sutton and Ken Kerik, presidents of the Michigan Knights of the Highway and the Midwest Coachmen chapters, respectively, decided to hold a joint celebration rally. I joined Ken on the planning committee, and after much work, RVers gathered May 14-17, 2015, at the Fulton County Fairgrounds in Wauseon, Ohio, to celebrate those 50 years of fellowship, food, and fun.
As people rolled in, they were greeted by the parking crew, led by Leo Wathen. Attendees then proceeded to registration, headed up by Doug Erman, and received a welcome packet in a cloth bag. The bags were handmade especially for the event by Marilyn Kerik and Janice Abbott.
The event opened Thursday evening with the Pledge of Allegiance and a skit. A meal served by food chairperson Terrye Kolbe and her helpers was followed by a great evening of entertainment by the Wauseon High School Choir.
Friday morning began with fellowship over coffee and homemade cookies. That evening featured a wonderful potluck. Did I mention there are some great cooks in these chapters? The evening was full of fun ,with games and laughter. Ty and Terrye Kolbe led a horse racing derby. After seven hilarious horse races, everyone went back to their coaches a little richer or a little poorer!
Saturday morning began with coffee and cookies. We recounted chapter history and viewed slides of past events and rallies. Everyone had the opportunity to tour 12 new motorhomes on display from Shafer’s Truck & RV Sales. A group also visited historic Sauder Village. Others took time to explore the area.
Saturday evening’s big celebration began as we gathered around the punch bowl and then enjoyed a catered meal. Decorated cakes for all three 50-year-old chapters provided dessert. Following dinner, past and current presidents of the Michigan Knights of the Highway and Midwest Coachmen chapters were recognized. Jane Roush, FMCA national vice president, Great Lakes Area, presented both chapters with a 50-year certificate and a check from FMCA. A couple from the Northeastern chapter was recognized as well. Several FMCA national officers also were in attendance. Randy Long provided musical entertainment; afterward, the winners of the door prizes and the 50/50 raffle were announced.
Sunday morning was a time for coffee and doughnuts, thank-yous, hugs, and good-byes. The morning concluded with a “singspiration” time.
The rally ended much too soon, but the wonderful memories will live on. People leave a combined rally with many new friends and hopes of coming together again. We invite friends and new members to attend chapter rallies, where great fellowship awaits.