2009 Prineville Spring Campout
May 14 – 17, 2009
The long awaited May trip to Prineville Reservoir Resort was underway. But seeing the Mt. Hood Highway 26 sign saying “Snow Chains or Traction Tires
Required” gave us the feeling of yet another OBPC adventure! We found Thursday’s
roadway clear but earlier, Tuesday travelers had encountered four inches of fresh snow.
The camp ground was in its usual pristine condition. The bathrooms had received a much needed update and looked nice.
Our hosts were waiting with open arms. As always, there were only a couple of campsites occupied by non-OBPC members.
There were new members to meet (we hope each of you
felt welcome), and many old friends were there to visit too. Children on bikes
were having a great time in the camp ground. The many evening campfires brought
neighbors and their dogs to share the warmth, renew friendships and swap stories.
The Saturday evening potluck was attended by 54 friends
and members and was a great success. We did, however, miss the special Jim Liddell
fish fry, but the table held enough hardy dishes so we all had plenty to eat. Herb
Doumitt had a few welcoming words for us and Bud Hartman gave us the update on the Crappie and Catfish “FUN” Fishing
Events. I’m sure the results will be posted in the Bulletin.
The Sunday “Leftovers” Deck Party was held on the deck of the motel at the resort for those who were able
to stay over the extra day. It was a first for many of us and was attended by
34 club members and four deer. We enjoyed leftovers from the Saturday potluck, lots of new dishes and appetizers and hours
of camaraderie! It was the first time event for many of us and one we are anxious
to repeat.
The weather, you ask?
The “early-birds” braved some cold, windy days but those arriving by Thursday were greeted with sunny skies
and a warming trend. Saturday’s pot-luck was held under calm winds, clear
skies and tropical warmth…just perfect. The high temperatures for Saturday
and Sunday reached into the low 90’s.
Fishing was hard for all, but moderate numbers of crappie
and catfish were caught and some boats found respectable numbers of largemouth bass.
As the water warmed up, the catfish turned off and the crappie turned on.
Be sure to check out the pictures of club members fishing,
the Saturday Potluck, the Fishing contest weigh-in and the Sunday Deck Party in the bulletin and on the OBPC website.
For those of you who have yet to share this experience,
find your tent or fix up the old RV and join us next year. Fifty-four attendees
and five dogs can’t be all wrong!
Submitted by Kathryn Israelson and Herb and Carol Doumitt
Photos courtesy of the Doumitts & Russ Miyada