Now that I've got 2012 *placed* in a spot, I can go back to making some sense of these few years. Any one can correct me here.
Okay, let's see where we left off.
Riverside Park, MissouriNOT(That's suppose to be the color of mud.)A big thing about the 2011 Reunion was the bad weather year (summer) for the mid-west. There had been flooding all around the area for an extended period. Riverside Park had been flooded and it was a real mess. The organizers for the Midwest All Truck Nationals (and the Genuine Chevy GMC Truck Club) were looking for "high ground" for the event. It was truly hard to come by since property damage was just about everywhere.
George (Wrenchbender Ret.) reported on the water damage in the Park and the affect flooding had taken all around the area. Even the route to the Red X Field (the temporary venue) had changed. He gave good details in forum posts, keeping us informed. He warned of mosquitoes. (Many participants brought spray, so no real issues.)
By August 20, we had so little details. We still had to coordinate some places to stay, eat, coolers for ice and water, prizes, etc. But we had to go ahead and make our reservations, especially the plane tickets. Cletis had hoped John would bring his banjo. Not this year!
So we ventured ahead. Then we got the word on Red X Field.
Mike (OlTrucks) Taylor offered camping at his place (two acres near Mongo). Mongo finally got the word that we would be able to camp at the Red X showgrounds this year. However, no amenities other than a bathroom. So, it would be "primitive camping."
At the new location, there was an EconoLodge close enough. It didn't have a bar (lounge) but they did have a breakfast bar! We decided we would "blast off" from the Lodge each morning with most of the gang gathering there for breakfast.
The management at the Lodge was great. They set up a big white board at the front desk so we could post info for late-comers. This way they'd know where we'd be most of the day as they arrived. They could catch up with us when they were able.
We made sure the local Bolters knew they didn't have to stay at the Lodge to come and hang out with us for a few hours after hours. And many did. We were able to bring in refreshments to really give it that quality, social atmosphere!
So far, I've only been able to find
a video that John took at the breakfast bar. It's a humdinger.
