Our October meeting was at the Afton Apple Orchard, just North of Hastings Mn. It was a gorgeous day, and those of us that attended had a great time. Our host was Frank Femling, who not only owns the place, but is a Midwest Mopar member also. It was great to hear him talk about how the orchard has evolved over the years into what it is today. We watched his employees make fresh apple juice, and sample some (it was great stuff). Then it was on to picking apples.

Cindy and I decided to go for the Sweet 16 variety, which was one of the several different varieties available to pick. They were the best apples I had ever eaten. We could have stayed there all afternoon, as there were lots of other activities going on. It is a great place to bring the kids, or grand-kids for some of us.

And since we were so close to Hastings, and it was the last drive-in of the season, we made our way downtown to be part of one of the biggest drive-ins I have ever seen at Hastings. It was the perfect way to end such a great day. Since there was a little problem getting out the meeting details, the club will re-visit the orchard next year. Watch for future up-dates, where have I heard this before?

Membership by Holly Patenaude (Treasurer)

In recent months your board has been putting forth the effort to have the newsletter emailed to the general membership. I know, I know it's nice to get that hard paper copy in the mail. I have also heard arguments against electronic copies. As your club treasurer I receive a hard copy of a different sort my mail box every month. It's the bill for the printing and mailing on our newsletter.

Members, do you realize that Approximately 75% of your membership fee goes to publishing of the newsletter? The club pays around a $1000.00 a month just to cover the cost of printing and mailing. That's $12000.00 a year.

Emailing an electronic copy would greatly reduce this expense. Think of what this savings could be used for. The club could subsidize member events such as the banquet or a Picnic. Maybe it could be used for something special for Mopars in The Park. A featured car or special guest? The clubs money belongs to you. Let's help these funds work better for the good of the club. The choice is yours.

I encourage you when renewing your membership to choose the electronic copy. Print as many as you would like. Share it with family and friends!!

Make-A-Wish by Wade Girard

Through the hard work of Jim Bemis and several other club members Midwest Mopars was able to raise $1000 for the Make-A-Wish foundation. Thank you to everyone for your hard work!