Club Trip to Hunstville AL
March 2009
Twelve members made the trip to Huntsville. The Georgia group Norman, Linda, Paula, Russell, Bernice, Harvard, Bill and Doris) met in Cartersville and caravanned to Huntsville’s Hilton Garden Inn. The Tennessee members (Budd, Darr, Coleman and Darlene) were waiting for us. The whole group went to lunch at Olde Heidelberg which had delicious German food and superb desserts. After a leisurely lunch, we explored historic downtown Huntsville. There were many photo opportunities of old buildings and churches. We visited Harrison Hardware which was opened in 1835 and is now run by the historical society. We also visited a large antique store which had some very interesting and expensive items.
After returning to the hotel for a little rest, we met for cocktails in the lobby and Norman gave the bartender a lesson on preparing martinis. At this point, Budd and Darr surprised Norman and Linda with a gift of T-shirts. Since we were touring the Space Center, Norman called himself the Rocket Man in his RSVP to the Evite. Hence, the shirt’s logo, I’m A Rocket Man and Linda’s imprinted with I’m With Rocket Man. We had so much fun with that. Within walking distance was a fabulous restaurant called Landry’s where we enjoyed a wonderful meal and lots of laughs.
On Saturday, we went to the Space Center for a tour of the museums, the Rocket Park and IMAX movie. None were brave enough to try the simulated space rides but it was great fun watching the kids. Next on the agenda was lunch at the Botanical Gardens. Although, there were only a few things in bloom, it was quite beautiful to walk the grounds. The highlight was the display of the giant bugs placed throughout the gardens.
Saturday night we ate at Porter’s Steakhouse. We had a private room so we guessed Landry’s must have called to tell them what a rowdy bunch to expect. Again, we had a wonderful time with so much laughter and fun. Sunday morning, we headed in different directions home. Paula, Russell, Norman & Linda continued the trip with a stop at White Elephant Antiques and the Mentone Hotel in Mentone, AL which was in operation from the 1800’s until 1958. We took another little side trip to Desota Falls for a few more photographs.
See you next time!
Paula Vopelak - Vice President
Members on Trip
Linda and Norman Penfield
Paula and Russ Vopelak
Bernice and Harvard Kniffen
Darr and Budd Neidig
Doris and Bill Cardwell
Darlene and Coleman Armstrong