Wow!  Unique! Spectacular! Wonderful!  And all the other superlatives describe the Iowa Newmar Rally Season for 2008!  Newmar Kountry Klub Rally down at Hoy’s Fancy Free Farm in September was all of the above. Twenty one units came for the fun, fellowship and good food. 

  Jon was busy baling hay when we arrived, so it was up to the parking crew (aka Gary Hurley) to welcome and circle the RV’s in the hay field (see pictures). Several men were able to watch Jon finish the baling.  It was on to another job picking up bales with an automatic bale loader and haul 66 of them to the barn. Once that was finished, it was time for a hay ride and pick fresh raspberries. Our pictures were taken to shown off favorite decorated hats.  And you know what hard work that can be, so it was time to eat a wonderful barbeque dinner. 

  After dinner, the Klub held its business meeting and reports were given.  Election of  Klub officers for 2009 took place.  Ruth Hoy will continue as Secretary/Treasurer; Dale and Joan Backhaus, Vice President; and Jack and Betty Moorman as President. President Otto Bruhn announced that John and Betty Pepper will host the 2009 May Rally at Delaware County Fairgrounds, Manchester, IA.  Moorman’s have tentatively agreed to do the September Rally in the area around Boone.  Otto also noted that another couple may host the 2010 May Rally.

  Jon challenged us with some unique thoughts and games followed by a wonderful bonfire.  Jon had chopped wood the last two years getting ready for this rally and he was determined that all the wood should be used.  After being nestled comfortably in our units for the night, we were greeted the next morning with a roaring fire and a large, large pot of  boiling water.  Ruth brought out the eggs and condiments to make some delicious omellettes in a bag. Many had not done that before and really enjoyed it. A tour of the United Brick and Tile Company was fascinating.  We did not know so many kinds of bricks (shapes, sizes, and color) could be made.  Our tour of the Dallas County Courthouse was limited because of a murder trial in progress.  We toured a seed farm owned by Stine Seeds, known for their high yield soybeans and genetically strengthened corn.

  The grills were fired up the one morning for pancakes.  Jon and Bernie Graanstra were masters at flipping the batter Ruth had made.  Some found their way to good cafes, shops and a little golf.  We had a great round steak (wieners) on a pitch fork dinner. The Hoy’s son gave us a horseshoeing demonstration.  Lonnie Houchin was given the task of holding the reins of the accompanying horse. Their son makes his livelihood shoeing horses.

  None of us missed the campground comforts and hope we can do another “dry camping” experience.  It was a let down to think about leaving Friday morning, but each of us gave thanks for all the hard work Jon and Ruth did.

  To each Iowa Newmar folk, we wish you peace and health during the winter months.  It will be fun to do this again in 2009.  Please read the Calendar of Events to get the dates for the Spring Rally at Manchester and the State Rally in July at Newton.

      Janet & Chuck Skellenger, 7831, Iowa State Directors

 

P.S. Don’t forget to look at pictures below!