Northern Illinois

We had fifteen Airstream couples plus two sets of buddies come out to enjoy the weekend. There were about a dozen grandkids, to keep things hopping. On Saturday morning, we drove down to the Mendota Corn festival and toured the large craft fair and watched the Youth parade. The weather was warm, but there was a nice breeze to cool you while we conversed under the trees at the Lee County Fairgrounds. Later that afternoon, the kids took turns swinging at the fish pinata. Sunday morning, we convoyed to the Experimental Aircraft Association Fly-In breakfast. After finishing the breakfast of pancakes, eggs, and ham, we reviewed up close the flight line with many interesting types of flying machines. A couple of the kids were treated by their grandparents to a helicopter ride to view the Corn Festival from on high. I am sure it will be a lifelong remembrance for them.

The rally was arranged and led by our first Vice president Bob Whitesell and his wife Sandy. It was based from the KOA campground in Union, IL. There were seven families attending including: Bauling’s, Clark’s, Jaminson’s, Kranner’s, Morrison’s, White’s, and Whitesell’s. Activities included: a road rally (without trailers) ending at the historic Woodstock Square, with visits along the way to the Railway Museum in Union and the Wings and Wheels Museum in Poplar Grove. One evening a movie was shown on the side of a trailer. Campground activities included a Corn bag throw and a European wooden stick throw contests as well as kite flying and model airplanes. Our Night-Out dinner was at the Old West Steakhouse. There were, of course, the usual campfire activities. A good time was had by all. Photos by Martha Clark.