 with Bill Johnston ZookiMelt 2007 - A Family Reunion
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   But
there is one thing that really hit home during the event that I had never
really noticed before. We always refer to the Zooki community as a big
family, looking after each other, helping each other through rough times and
hard trails, and it is something to be proud of. But this year I saw it with
a new twist. The event isn't just drivers and rigs. You have made it much
more by bringing your families and using the event to pass on qualities that
really make us a family. Our kids are seeing seeing us work together,
playing hard but stopping to help each other when needed. These kids are
growing up with good values. Some are even in their own rigs now showing
what they have learned (sometimes even showing us a few new things). These
are the times our kids will remember for the rest of their lives. |
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  Like
any big family, we had chowed down in grand style with burgers, dogs, brats
and so much more spread out on the tables by our volunteer staff. No one
went away hungry, and many had seconds, and thirds... |
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   The
Suzuki aftermarket was very well represented as they provided thousands of
dollars in prizes. Everything from t-shirts to bumpers, bikini tops to
gears, and gift certificates for just about everything else. The crowd on
Saturday evening made everyone feel good as the winners names were called to
pick up their prizes. Our security staff was on hand during the event, but
never had to lift a finger as everyone showed that they were there for the
enjoyment, and not the problems that can arise when a large bunch of folks
get together on a hot summers day. |
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   The
raffle also had a surprise or two hidden in the mix as there was a chance
for folks to 'pick' what grand prize they were most interested in. They
could choose to put their tickets into the buckets for the GPS (Thanks to
Steve Schilling Jr), the Trail Tough Track/Kick Transfer case gears, the
newly released Samurai 26 spline cromo front axle shaft set from Spidertrax
or the secret surprise package from Rocky Road Outfitters. This one was hard
to keep secret - but we did it. Celebrating their first 10 years in business
and their 50,000th order, Rocky Road provided a package that contained an
ARB air compressor, air up kit, and a few more goodies that would make
anyone happy. The big surprise came when the winner opened the box and
realized that the packing material Glenn used was green - as in CASH (about
$700 in fact). |
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   Once
all of the raffle prizes were handed out, and the crowd seemed happy with
their new toys, we all got serious again as we remembered a good friend and
fellow wheeler Art Lilley. MSG Art Lilley lost his life in Afghanistan three
weeks before the event. It was a terrible loss to all that knew and
respected him. Our family paid tribute to him through signatures as everyone
was given the opportunity to sign a Samurai hood (provided by Zuwharrie)
that was to be sealed and presented to his family. We also had a special
raffle in his honor. Scott Yach from Rock 4XFabrication had built Art's
first cage after working out the design specs with Art. This cage was an
immediate hit, and has been a signature series cage for Rock 4XFabrication
ever since. Scott built one specifically for the raffle and presented it to
the winner. All proceeds went directly to Art's family. He will be missed. |
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I want to thank all of the iZook publication staff, iZook event staff,
Badlands Off Road Park staff, Attica Family Campgrounds, Steam Corners
Campgrounds, Summers Campground, and the people of Attica, Indiana. You
welcome our family every year, and we want you to know that we are grateful.
... Make your plans to join us next year. You will be glad you did. |
08/11/10 15:33:26
[trails/footerw.htm]
First
of all, thanks to all of you that made it out to the Badlands for ZookiMelt
2007. Without you, there would be no event. You came expecting a few days of
fun, friends and even a bit of excitement. I am proud to say that the
overwhelming response from the participants showed us that you came to the
right place! Zooks of every size, shape and capability were gathered
together from all over the US to show up, show off and have fun.
