By Steve Hall
The Rally to Madison was a smashing
success by any standard. Trip planning provided by wagon master
Bonewitz was practically flawless.
1st rendezvous was on a Friday, in
Washington, PA, where 7 of the 8 coaches attending the rally gathered
to ready themselves for the days ahead. Plan was to run as a group
to Elkhart, Indiana – purportedly to scope great bargains.
Traveling with 7 coaches proved far more challenging than anyone
anticipated. However, modern technology prevailed as we all arrived
in Elkhart – group intact. Most of the time there, Saturday and
Sunday, was spent renewing old friendships and developing new ones.
Potluck meals prevailed, resulting in some great meals.
Monday morning began the final run to
Madison with a short stop at a Flying J to pick up the 8th
coach and arrive at the rally as a group. After a few delays, caused
by weak bladders, malfunctioning toll scanners, wrong turns, etc., we
arrived at the Farm Park and were positioned in the front row with a
great view of the park and lake – also plenty of room to move
around. The rally appeared to be a great success as our group of
eight did their best to jumpstart the Madison economy.
After Madison, 6 coaches continued the
trip – next stop Wisconsin Dells, where we took in the beautiful
scenery and a boat ride up the Wisconsin River. After the Dells, 5
coaches proceeded to an Indian reservation casino campground where we
tested our gambling skills. Next stop was St Ignace, MI where we
enjoyed views of the great lakes as well as a side trip on the ferry
to Mackinac Island.
A great time was had by all. In fact,
we had so much fun, considering doing another caravan to FMCA rally
in Indianapolis in August 2012.
Photos by Dennis Reid. Click on photo to enlarge.