The Stovebolt Site Forums The Side Lot Old Dominion Stovebolt Society (MD, VA, West VA, DC, DE and PA) Homecoming 2017-Wrap-up

I am always blown away how fast this weekend goes by. Despite the weather, that doesn't seem to cooperate for this event, I believe all who attended had a wonderful time. I know I did.
So proud to call John and Peggy my friends, to be a Stovebolter and ODSS member, the 2017 "Ned" winner and to be fortunate enough to attend these Homecomings. Its a highlight of my year for sure. Thanks to all that came, all that helped with meals and supplies.
Can't wait til next year!

Being short on words, what Billy said.

This was the fourth time I've attended Homecoming; I was unable to attend last year. Each one of them seem to take on a life of their own; regardless of the weather.

There is always a commonality to them. Reconnecting with Stovebolters I've had the opportunity to know, meeting Stovebolters - in person for the first time- that I came to know on this site, always learning how to solve problems in a new way from the vast knowledge pool of the Stovebolters there, and the generous spirit that flows through everyone that attends.

This generous spirit starts at the top and flows through all living things at HQ and Friendship Forest. Thank you John and Peggy for allowing me the opportunity to experience this great event!

And thank you to all of the other Stovebolters that help make this event possible!

Your most exalted Serene Eminence, Mr. John Milliman Sir,and MS. Peggy.
I really hope that the two of you have taken a step back and just taken in all of what your efforts have accomplished over the years, inventing, starting and running this beautiful thing called "Stovebolt"
Literally helping thousands of fellow enthusiast achieve their goals, and more importantly bringing this big world together, with just one thing in common, the love of old G.M truck metal!
Speaking for myself, I'm in awl of what you accomplished. Yes, I do realize that it is a team effort, but the team still has to be nourished and steered to run as efficiently as it does.
Then to open up your house for the masses to gather, meet new and reconnect with old friends that, let's face it, would never had know each other, before Stovebolt.
So, a "big salute" and "Thank You" to the Milliman's.
Job extremely well done!
Also, not to be left out, the volunteers! From helping John with the property, to providing and cooking the wonderful meals and hospitality's! What a weekend!!
I so appreciate, knowing and calling you my friends!
Take care, and Thanks,
Jim

I will drink to everything stated above! Thank you!

Chris

From the desk of the ODSS president:


Oh, what a splendid time was had by all! We all know that one very special person's presence that could have made the Homecoming the best ever. Well, we have our hopes and prayers for the future.

Yes, we wouldn't be together without the creation of STOVEBOLT.COM by John and Peggy. Throughout my 17 years on the site it never ceases to amaze me that I have found a home for my passion for these old trucks that is shared by such a diverse population of people from around the country and the world!

It has been said, "The whole is greater than the sum of its parts", so it is in the Stovebolt World.

Thanks to all!

There is a reason that I have not missed a Homecoming.

Frankly, its the best event of the year for me. Its close to home, and is looked forward to for months before every single year.

I have spent many a birthday at Friendship Forest. Reason is because I think its a very special place. Its special because of the people who make it what it is. John and Peggy Milliman.

They have welcomed me there with open arms for years, so much so that I treat it as an asylum when I need to!

It takes a lot of planning to make this event what it is. Also takes many volunteers. From cooking food for 50-60 people, to taking out trash, to making kitchens and bathrooms for all to use.

Again, big thanks to John and Peggy for allowing us to take over your home. Like Billy said in his Ned speech, ten years ago an event happened that has changed the course of life. It was the birth of the ODSS. It has formed many bonds with many folks that I consider my closest of friends.

Thanks again to everyone for making Homecoming the greatest event. Looking forward to next year!