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Spring Rally 2009: A Good Time in the Bluegrass

The most recent rally for GMC East at the Kentucky Horse Park, in the center of the bluegrass region of the state, was atremendous success. Though the twenty-four motorhomes, parked as a group, took up only 1/10th of the capacity of the campground, they were prominently viewable near the entrance. Serving as the lead Rallymaster was newsletter editor and webmaster, Byron Songer. Assisting on the rally was John Richardson. In addition to the 24 coaches, owners of three coaches drove in for the event and were present at various times of the rally. Owners of five coaches had to cancel for various reasons. Those attending remarked about the quality and quantity of the food as well as the level of enthusiasm for the Rally.

Campers and visitors coming and leaving the campground could easily spot the fact that something was happening that involved our classic vehicles. In fact, one couple, who knew nothing of the rally but were in a 77 GMC, requested being put next to the ES group so they could easily find out information about the event.

The rally started with a potluck meal on Thursday evening. The technical seminars and business session were held on Friday and Saturday. This allowed members who have yet to retire the opportunity to be fully participate in the rally without a significant amount of time from their employment.

Attendees
• Paul & Billie Bennett
• Ray Bingham
• Chuck & Catherine Boyd
• Bill Brown
• Robert Burkitt (no coach)
• Nick & Theresa Chapekis (visiting)
• Gene & Joan Dotson
• Joe & Fran Ekl
• Jim Galbavy (visiting)
• James & Marlys Garman
• Lawrence & Mary Gaskins
• Dan & Teri Gregg
• Don & Anne Hart with grandchildren
• Gary & Kara Kosier
• Peter Lyon, wife and children (visiting)
• Luther & Wanda McConnell
• Blaine & Diane Merrell
• James Miller and father, Jim (visiting, no coach)
• John & Rita Nicholls
• John & Linda Richardson
• John & Patricia Shotwell (new members)
• JR & Jeanne Slaten
• Byron & Martha Songer
• Ted Stinnett
• Bob & Terry Stockholm
• Jim (Doc) & Chris White (new members)
• Thomas & Geraldine Whitton (no coach)

Activities
• Thursday evening’s potluck supper at the pavilion,
• Group walks around the park each morning
• Three catered meals by a national-recognized caterer
• A time of open discussion to discuss the future of GMC Eastern States
• A Wii bowling demo and team event
• Membership Meeting in which a proposed change to the bylaws was passed
• Open Coach visits and members flea market
• Free Bingo with prizes
• Me and My RV: A time for members to share experiences relating to their GMC
• Worship experience with Mother’s Day emphasis

Sessions
• Keeping Your Engine Cool led by Gene Dotson
• Upgrading to a Four-Bagger led by Bill Brown
• What’s in Your Oil led by John Richardson
• Living on Solar Energy led by Dan Gregg
• Fun with Geocaching led by Teri Gregg

Though unable to attend, Ken Henderson, former leader of the Technical Committee, was presented the Service Award in appreciation for his many years of service to GMC East. Bob Brown presented the President’s Award to Byron Songer in recognition for his work on the club’s newsletter, web site and rally.Gary Kosier won the drawing for gasoline money.