News:New York

Excelsior Winnies
State Club

Our NYS rally Sept 9-13 was a great success. We had 63 coaches that included members from as far away as FL, IA, and MA. Our Eastern Area reps, Dick and Mikki Dodge, added that special touch by their presence. They also showed their stunning new 2010 coach, which is just beautiful—and we want one!

A well-planned rally by our Rally Master, Karen Welch, was enjoyed by all. She has secured the location for the 2010 NYS Rally already.

Rene Hebert 315-682-6786

Long Island Winnie-Tascas
Local Chapter
By Arlene Schuber

Our annual Nassau County campout was held at Battlerow campground in Old Bethpage, LI. It was a great weekend. There were over 50 units in attendance.

The weekend was the usual of good food served and prepared by volunteers of chapters. One of our members, Fran Hoyer, prepared and presented a wonderful memorial service in remembrance of those lost on 9/11. Please remember we are on Long Island and so many of those lost that horrible day were members of our community. It was a lovely and moving memorial.

After a great dinner, we had super entertainment that was enjoyed by all. The last song, of course, was Lee Greenwood's "Proud to be an American." We joined hands in a moving circle and sang. Arlene Schuber's son-in-law is a NYC firefighter. His picture showing his grief at Ground Zero was passed around for all to share and, again, there was more crying and hugging. What a moving tribute to all who were in any way part of the 9/11 horror.

Our club looks forward to just two more months of campouts and are already preparing for the 2010 year ahead. We look forward to seeing anyone who is brave enough to come to Long Island to visit. Remember, you do not go through NY City to get onto the island.

Ed Davis 631-363-7270

Winnebago-Itasca Travelers