Volume XV, Issue 6 • November-December 2010
The Official Magazine For Owners Of Heritage, Eagle, Dream, Tradition, Allegiance & Limited Motor Coaches
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CONTENTS: elecTed officers: ADVERTISERS & SERVICES President - Bill Dettmer American Coach ...... 1 Membership Article . . . . 4 1509 Tejana Mesa Pl . NE Ancira RV ...... 40 Albuquerque, NM 87112 President’s Message . . . .5 Bradd & Hall ...... 40 505-294-0564 / 505-238-2025 - Bill Dettmer billdettmer@comcast .net Campbell Group, The . . . . 34 Vice President - Doug Thompson Classic Coach Works . . . . 36 Vice Presidents Message . . 7 1812 Latelia Ct, Trinity, FL 34655 Cruising America ...... 35 727-709-0218 -Where Doug Thompson It’s At doug@rvzoomin .com Desert Vista ...... 34 Secretary - Mary Corcoran Diamond Shield ...... IFC Final Journey ...... 8 1051 Caravan Loop, Polk City, FL 33868 Fantastic Vent ...... 36 Las Vegas Rally Recap . . . 9 863-984-0903 / 863-206-1418 Cell Girard Systems ...... 6 jfcorcoran@aol .com Chapter News . . . . . 10-25 Treasurer - Bob Downing MCD Innovations ...... 32 808 Holley Lake Road, Aiken, SC 29803 Monroeville Chassis . . . . .27 ACA Nat . Spring Rally . 17-24 803-641-6455 / 803-645-1694 Cell RV Fog Dr ...... 32 Nomination Committee Report . . .26 venderman@prodigy .net Spartan Chassis . . . . . Back Tips & Tricks ...... 27 chaPTer PresidenTs: Sullivan RV ...... 32 Great Lakes - Dave Ehrhardt Summit Products ...... 41 ACA Scholarship . . . . .28 881 Moses Loop, The Villages, FL 32162 Wade RV ...... 2 - Doug Thompson 352-259-4669 / 216-496-8236 Cell dvehrhardt@comcast .net The Web Guy ...... 28 Happy Wanderers - Bill Makowski PMB 179674, 3590 Round Bottom Rd ., - Doug Thompson Cincinnati, OH 45244 ACA Magazine - ©2010 989-390-9444 Volume XV, Issue 6 Rolling Recipes . . . . . 29 wbmak@aol .com November-December The Roving Wrencher . . .30 Mac Pack - Skipper Campbell P .O . Box 1126, Fort Mill, SC 29716 aca naTional magaZine: - Joe Bruno 803-547-6486 / 803-417-8242 Cell Editor - Jane Lihou Skipper1126@comporium .net 9121 Atlanta Ave ., #637, What’s New ...... 31 Missouri Valley - Ray Smith Huntington Beach, CA 92646 - Justin Humphreys 1419 Anglers Road, Beaufort, MO 63013 714-749-7560 Cell 314-825-8906 jlihou@aol .com Rally Schedule ...... 33 rpscrosk@hughes .net Northern California - George Borecky Advertising - Kevin Mallory Rally Sites ...... 33-34 331 E . Livingston St ., Celina, OH 45822 13101 Tomki Road, Redwood Valley, CA 95470 Membership Services . . .37 707-485-0173 / 707-972-8076 Cell 419-586-1193 / 419-852-0791 Cell water@pacific .net cruisingamericarv@verizon .net - Janice Thompson Northeast - Lloyd Monroe 116 Boat Yard Road, Chesapeake City, MD 21915 Design & Production - Print Group Inc. Chapter Directory . . . . .38 443-466-3909 1440 W . Skyline Ave ., Ozark, MO 65721 LBM251@gmail .com 417-581-7651 • www .printgroupinc .com Chapter Registration Form . 39 Northwest - Merritt Mosby rdavis@printgroupinc .com PO Box 2182, Florence, OR 97439 printed in U .S .A . 925-383-6341 / 541-999-0304 maceagle@oregonfast .net Southern California - Beverly Petty The ACA Across America Magazine (USPS 025-025) is published by-monthly by the American Coach Association, Publication 34702 Calle Las Flores Department, ACA, 1812 Latelia Ct, New Port Richey, FL 34655 (727) 709-0218, and is funded in part by annual membership dues and paid advertisements . Membership dues are $45 per year, of which $6 is allocated towards a yearly subscription of Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 the ACA Across America Magazine . Membership in the American Coach Association is open to owners of American Coach 949-433-1850 motor coaches only – Limited, Tradition, Dream, Eagle, Heritage and Allegiance . bbpetty@cox .net South Central - Dick Holmes Periodicals Postage Paid at New Port Richey, FL, and at additional mailing offices . 1001 E . Franklin, Hillsboro, TX 76645 254-582-9008 / 817-235-4880 Cell POSTMASTER: dickholmes@sbcglobal .net Send address changes to ACA Across America Magazine, Membership Services, 1812 Latelia Ct, Trinity, FL 34655 . Southeast - Jim Graham 12245 Susanne Ct ., Irvington, AL 36544 ACA Across America contains advertisements which may be of interest to members- the appearance of any advertisement for 251-825-9876 / 251-623-4321 Cell products or services in this publication shall not be deemed an endorsement of the Association or individual members . ACA reserves the right to reject or accept, including editing for reasons of space and clarity, letters to the editor, chapter news or jgraham179@mchsi .com articles . Statements of fact and opinion are the responsibility of the author(s) alone and do not imply an opinion on the part Southwest - Laura Bruno of the officers of the ACA, the members, the Editor, or Production Staff . Letters and photographs become property of ACA 1250 Jodi Court, Gardnerville, NV 89460 and will not be returned . 775-265-0468 / 775-790-3261 joeandlaurabruno@gmail .com NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2010 3 Membership Article
aca national membership: Membership Chairwoman - Debbie Darby By now, most of you know about welcome each and every Revolution 1021 Pinehurst Pl ., Camarillo, CA 93010 the newest addition to our American owner as they begin to attend our ral- 805-482-6733 / 805-469-2903 Coach family, the Revolution. When lies. Let’s all let them know how happy Membership Benefits - Bill Dettmer they started producing the Revolu- we are to have them in our family! 1509 Tejana Mesa Pl . NE, Albuquerque, NM 87112 505-294-0564 tion on the same line as our beloved billdettmer@comcast .net American’s, there were many discus- And last, but not least, for those of you Membership Services - Janice Thompson sions about allowing the Revolution who belong to other clubs that might American Coach Association, owners to join our ACA owners club. have Revolution owners as members, 1812 Latelia Ct, Trinity, FL 34655 501-858-9564 The consensus was that when it is an friends, and neighbors or even when membership@myamericancoach .com American Revolution, we’d love to you see a Revolution in a campground, include them. Well, there has been an let them know we would love to have aca national Web site: Chairman - Doug Thompson American (as in Coach) revolution; them join us. Invite them personally, 1812 Latella Ct ., Trinity, FL 34655 the Fleetwood Revolution is now the give them an old ACA magazine you 727-709-0218 doug@rvzoomin .com American Coach Revolution. As an are done with, tell them to look at our ACA member, I am excited; as ACA website www.myamericancoach.com, aca national finance committee: Chair - Laura Bruno Membership Chairman, I am ecstatic! and best of all give them a membership 1250 Jodi Court, Gardnerville, NV 89460 We have opened the door to a whole application to join. You can download 775-265-0468 / 775-790-3261 new world of members. an application from the website, or joeandlaurabruno@gmail .com ask me and I will provide you with aca national ambassador club: Chairwoman - Debbie Darby We just celebrated our 20th year as some. Let’s all make a concerted effort 1021 Pinehurst Pl ., Camarillo, CA 93010 an owner’s club, and although we are to reach out to the newest members of 805-482-6733 / 805-469-2903 proud of our longevity, it brings with it the awesome American Coach family! debdarby48@yahoo .com an aging membership, and as a result, aca national By-laws: a declining membership. Between Debbie Darby Chairwoman - Margaret Harker 3590 Round Bottom Rd ., Cincinnati, OH 45244 members dropping out due to age and Membership Chair 602-538-0604 health, we have also been losing mem- ctrylady@gmail .com
bers as a result of the current economy. aca national Policy: Adding the Revolution owners is a Chairman - Chip Aiken 1160 Vierling Dr ., #345, Shakopee, MN 55379 wonderful opportunity to add to our 952-807-2290 Cell membership, which benefits us all! I caiken@aikenfamily .us
am pleased to report that even though aca scholarship foundation: this all happened so close to our Las Chairman - Doug Thompson Vegas National Rally, we have had 1812 Latelia Ct, Trinity, FL 34655 727-709-0218 three Revolution owners sign up. doug@rvzoomin .com
aca national rally guidelines: I know that each and every one of Chairwoman - Mary Corcoran you will be warm and welcoming, 1051 Caravan Loop, Polk City, FL 33868 863-984-0903 / 863-206-1418 Cell as you are to all new members, but I jfcorcoran@aol .com am asking you to go out of your way, aca national historian: whenever you are at an ACA event, Chairwoman - Ann Beadel to introduce yourself and personally 8801 FM 45 South, Brownwood, TX 76801 325-646-5104/325-998-0431 Cell bbeadel@bwoodtx .com
4 ACA ACROSS AMERICA Message We’re having a revolution, an American Revolution. The first shot was fired by Fleetwood when they re-branded the Revolutions as American Revolutions. The second shot was fired by the ACA Board of Directors when they voted unanimously to recommend a vote to change our by-laws to include the Revolution. The final shots will be fired by the ACA members as they vote to change the by-laws. We will be sending out ballots after the Las Vegas Rally.
Wow, how about that September/ October magazine! It is full of interesting and informative content. I thought that Lloyd and Lisa Hodgins’ article on “Travel in Mexico” was excellent. It was well laid out and comprehensive. I hope we can continue with futurePresident’s contributions by members to the “Member Forum”.
Another new addition to the magazine is “The Roving Wrencher” by Joe Bruno. This article adds useful technical information from our membership in addition to the excellent infor- The new American Revolution mation from Fleetwood. It’s a great article and hope it continues.
The column by Debbie Darby on “Tips & Tricks: Organizing Your Coach” is always a helpful addition to the maga- zine. Justin Humphreys keeps us informed with all the Fleetwood news and the chapter presidents let us know what’s going on with the chapters. Thanks also to the national officers for their contributions in making this a great magazine. And, without the upcoming rally information, we wouldn’t be able to plan all the fun we’ll be having!
Our Balloon Fiesta Rally in Albuquerque was a success. We had ten coaches in attendance. There were over 500 hot-air balloons taking part and the weather cooperated to assure perfect mass ascensions on Saturday and Sunday mornings. To top it off, the “Albuquerque Box” was in effect (a wind pattern that changes in altitude, whereby you can take off to the south, change altitude, fly back north, and land where you started). One of our couples, John Jones and Gail Malcolm, even got to fly in the first wave on Saturday. Overall, a good time was had by all.
As I write this, I am sitting in my coach in the Sam’s Town RV Park in Las Vegas waiting for our national rally to start. As of today, 150 coaches, give or take a few, have signed up. It promises to be a different sort of rally with seminars aimed toward the guys on understanding and maintaining the mechanics of our coaches, and toward the gals on making the insides work. Add all the other planned activities that the Southwest Chapter has worked so hard to arrange and the excitement of Las Vegas, and this rally should be one to remember.
John Jones & Gail Malcolm It’s not too early to mark your calendars for next year’s national getting ready for takeoff rally in Memphis from May 16th - 21st. It’s a great location and This is how close they the Mac Pack chapter has been working hard to make this a great rally. came to our coaches
I’d like to get back to one of my themes, volunteerism. Our Board of Directors conducts busi- ness between rallies by internet. In the past, I sent business information to the Board members and to the past presidents (for their sage advice). Debbie Darby requested that I include committee chairs in the emails, which I now do. The shocking realization was that I only had to add three new names. Most of the committee chairs are doing multiple duties as chapter officers or national officers. Please, we need more of our members to volunteer for committees, chapter officers, and national officers. Bill Dettmer Bill Dettmer Bill & Kip Dettmer ACA National President NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2010 5
Message
After spending the summer piloting houseboats on Vegas is truly a destination - from hiking the red Lake Powell in Utah, Jan and I have moved on to rock country to catching the shows on the strip. If Las Vegas and the ACA National rally. This is our you don’t have fun here, you can’t have fun any- third day at the rally, and I wish to extend my most where. heartfelt thanks to the Southwest Chapter for their Vice President’s outstanding efforts in putting on this rally. They Our next ACA event is the spring rally in Memphis, have done a truly incredible job; we’ve got great Tenn. So make your plans now to attend. There seminars, lots of vendors, good food and lots of are a lot of extra activities planned for you, plus the sunshine. location is not only a destination, but it provides a springboard for many other interesting places. Call The folks at Sam’s Town have also done their abso- it a win-win for sure! lute best to ensure that we had what we needed to I’d like to extend a hearty welcome to our new enjoy the experience, and did an outstanding job at American Revolution coaches. As this article is creating the ambiance which made us feel at home. published, the ballots are on their way to you, the members. We are asking that you agree with the board deci- sion to include all the Revolutions, even the earlier Fleetwood Revolutions as they have been officially re-branded as American Coaches. Please vote yes, and mail the ballot back so we can begin moving forward on this wonderful opportunity.
One last thought; membership numbers are show- Publication Statement ing some stress with the economy at this time. There is no better time than now to carry a few membership applications in your coach to hand out to any American Coaches, especially Revolutions, that you meet along the way.
Enjoy your holidays! Doug Thompson, Vice President
Doug Thompson Doug Thompson ACA National Vice-President
Doug Thompson
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2010 7 Final Journey
Dear Valued Fleetwood RV Owner:
It is with a very heavy heart that I must announce the sudden passing of Chuck James – Director of Fleetwood RV’s parts & service organization and beloved member of the Fleetwood RV family – on Thursday, August 26, 2010 at his home in Ft. Wayne, Ind. Chuck leaves behind his wife Mary; son Jace; daughter, Sabrina; grandsons Colt and Gage; granddaughter, Sabrina; and countless associates, dealers and customers who knew him during his 23-year tenure at Fleetwood.
A public viewing has been scheduled from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. and again from 6:00 -8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 31 and Wednesday, September 1, 2010. The viewing will be held at D.O. McComb & Sons Covington Knolls Funeral Home located at 8325 Covington Road in Ft. Wayne. The funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 2, 2010 at Trinity Lutheran Church located at 1636 St. Mary’s Avenue in Ft. Wayne. Calling will begin at 1:00 p.m. The family has also set up a “Grandchildren’s Education Trust.” Memorials should list Mary L. James in the memo line and be sent to Lakeside Park located at 1140 Lake Avenue Fort Wayne, IN 46805.
On a personal note, words fall short when trying to describe the incredible impact Chuck has had on our company and the RV community as a whole. He was an enthusiastic leader whose passion for our products was only trumped by his dedication to serving you. He truly loved his job and was incredibly proud of the talented team that worked with him every day. He greeted every challenge with a “can do” attitude and looked forward to the opportunity to exceed your expectations. He was a fundamental part of our company’s DNA – a key reason why Fleetwood is one of the most respected brands in the industry – and a friend whose sudden passing is still too great to comprehend.
Steve Heim will serve as the interim Director of Fleetwood RV’s parts & service organization until further notice. He can be reached via phone at (260) 724-5720 or via email at steve.heim@fleetwoodrv. com.
We appreciate, in advance, your patience as we recover from this difficult loss.
Sincerely,
John Draheim CEO Fleetwood RV, Inc.
8 ACA ACROSS AMERICA VEGAS RALLY
The ACA National Rally in LasRECAP Vegas is now history, but what a rally it was! The hard-working members of the Southwest Chapter and the staff at Sam’s Town Hotel/Casino/RV Park hosted a rally to remember with super events, great vendors, informative seminars, and fantastic food. For those of you who missed this rally, here are a few highlights…
Southwest Chapter members parked nearly 150 rigs over the course of nine days. We hosted 43 first-timers, including both AC and Revolution owners. By the end of the rally week our rally dealer, RV World of Yuma sold five coaches. Four of those buyers were folks who saw our coach/ vendor display and stopped by to look.
Over 50 brave souls took part in the NASCAR ride-along. Our event leader, Terry Farber, guided us to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway where we took part in a brief racing course, and donned our racing suits and helmets. Then the real fun began - getting into the NASCAR vehicle by literally climbing through the window! Once in the seat and strapped in, our driver leaned over and asked if we were “feeling the need for speed?” and off we went! By the end of the afternoon, everyone was wearing a smile and giving a thumbs-up.
The Monday Night Football Party attracted more than 175 of our rally attendees including ACA members, vendors, and Randy’s crew. While rain held up part of the televised football game, it didn’t dampen the spirits of those at the get-together. Rally seminars and vendors had something for everyone. Seminars included three different strands, blue, pink, and purple, and covered a wide array of topics ranging from maintenance, electronics, the Yahoo Chat Forum, concealed weapons, and cooking.
Set in the beautiful Atrium area, our Ladies Luncheon was a great suc- cess. Debbie Darby, our hostess, oversaw a group of more than 90 ladies who all agreed that this sold-out event was a wonderful time. The eve- ning entertainment included socials enjoyed under the beautiful desert skies, and gala rally dinners. All in all, the general consensus was that this Las Vegas National ACA Rally was a great success.
Our next Southwest rally will be the annual “If It’s January, It Must be Quartzsite” Rally, which will run from January 20th - 23rd. As in past years, this rally coincides with the Quartzsite RV Show that begins on January 22nd. Look for more information in the Future Rallies section of the magazine.
Until next time, the Southwest Chapter wishes you joyous and peaceful holidays and safe travels! Laura Bruno Southwest Chapter President
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2010 9 Chapter News:
Bill Carroll, Cary Hughes, Dick Masons friend Jutta Great Lakes Ziegler (she has become friends with a lot of us who Hello to all you American Coach owners! I am at the have had the pleasure of meeting her), Barb Hoover, ACA National Rally and I have to say that if you are not Kent Landry, and Marilyn Wilson, and Carolyn Habeg- here, you missed one great rally. The seminars were very ger. If I have forgotten anyone or you know of anyone good, the planning was great, the food, as always, was who needs our prayers, please let me know. As I’ve writ- good and Vegas is always a fun placeKeep to visit. WeIn had Touchten before, if you haven’t been to a rally please consider somewhere around 160 coaches and we welcomed four signing up for one; we would love to have you come. American Revolution owners to join us. Great Lakes We would like to meet you and enjoy your friendship. had seven coaches and, while we had a small group, we They are a lot of fun and you meet a lot of nice people still had happy hour. We were fortunate to have two who have something in common. Since I am a little of our new members, Dennis and Lisa Terning, join us late in getting this written, I will keep it short, but if and we hope they will come to more of our rallies. The you’re going down the road and you see another Ameri- other Great Lakes Chapter members that attended were can Coach wave or blow your horn, Martin and Nancy Halwix, Dick and Judy Starmann, it might just be Kathy and I. Bill Olsen, Kent and Jo Ann Landry, Tom and Mary Lou DeSimone, Eldon and Carolyn Habegger. Take care and remember By the time you read this, you may already have the it is all about the fun! ballot for voting on new officers as well as adding Dave Ehrhardt American Revolution owners to be part of ACA. A lot Great Lakes Chapter President of the people buying Revolutions are younger people with families. This would be a good for ACA as some of us are getting older and need a push to get involved. I would like to see 300 plus coaches at the ACA National Northwest Rally. I find national rallies are fun and you get to see Hello to all ACA members especially the northwest bunch. old friends as well as make new ones. They give us the chance to meet some of our suppliers and have some Yes, I have some more sad news. Frank DiSalvo, a northwest repairs made, not only by Randy and his crew but also chapter member who lived in northern California, passed away by the suppliers. It also gives us the opportunity to learn in September. He was one of the “good guys” and will be missed more about our house going down the road and the care by all of us. Many of you knew Chuck James when he was at we should give it. the American Coach Service Center, before becoming Director The next national rally will be in Memphis and it is of Fleetwood Parts & Service. Chuck passed away at his home happening at a time when a lot of fun stuff is going on in Ft. Wayne in August. Both of these men will be missed by many; our condolence’s, prayers, thoughts and love goes to there so make sure you sign up for this one. Great Lakes their families. will have a pre-rally so watch for the information in upcoming issues. CJ & Mary King, Bob & Donna White spent a few days with We also have two other rallies planned for the summer us at different times in Florence. Chip & Annette Aiken & and both should be a lot of fun. Don’t forget we will George & Sheri Tomaszewski stopped by a couple of times. We once again be at Disney in February and there are lim- missed Pete & Eileen Smoot when they were in Florence for ited spaces so sign up for that as soon as possible. Watch a short stay. Congratulations to George & Sheri; they have our newsletter and this magazine for future details on all bought a place near Terry & Truman Bennett in Blanchard, the upcoming rallies. We would love to see all of you at Idaho at the Stoneridge Golf & RV Resort. Their place at any and all of them. Osprey Point in Lakeside, Oregon is for sale. Call them at 602- Please continue to keep all those who need our prayers 524-1690 or 602-228-6739 for more information. in your thoughts and prayers. I believe some of those are Kathie Guttierrez, Tom DeSimone, Kent Landry,
10 ACA ACROSS AMERICA Chapter News:
We had a caravan of one (1) to Reno, Nevada from Florence, Oregon. We stopped at the new Yreka RV Park on the way. Bob & Nan Simpkins and Barb & Lloyd Zuehlke joined us at the VEGAS RALLY Grand Sierra in Reno. Terry & Truman Bennett joined us at Fernley, Nevada for the trip to Las Vegas. We spent the night at SNAP SHOTS the Death Valley Inn & RV Park at Beatty, Nevada. The Death Valley Nut & Candy Company in Beatty is the largest candy & nut store in Nevada. So, the next morning we went sugar shop- Keep In Touch ping before we made the final leg of the journey to Sam’s Town in Las Vegas.
We are now at the very nice Sam’s Town RV Park. I would like to thank Laura Bruno and all of the members from the South- west Chapter; the rally starts tomorrow and so far it looks like a winner! Some of the member coaches are starting to come in, and Randy and his crew are here doing their thing. Spartan has their big trailer here as well. The “Show” coaches are starting to come in and it’s all coming together nicely. Thanks again.
Fleetwood RV has put the name American in front of the Revo- lution logo. What does that mean? It means there is now a new member of the American Coach family. Welcome I say, WEL- COME. Well, I shouldn’t get ahead of myself. There will have to be a vote before they can join the ACA, however I certainly hope that is just a formality. This should help the declining membership, with new and perhaps younger members. Many chapters, including this one are having a difficult time recruiting officers and finding wagon masters. Welcome, I say, come, join and participate.
That’s all I have for now. In a few minutes, I leave for my ride along in a Petty NASCAR. Although I’ll be riding “shot-gun”, we will be suited up, and it should be quite an experience.
Once again, Dear Lord, please give all of the men and women in service to our country your safety and guidance. Please give our elected leaders the strength and wisdom to bring stability to the country and peace to the world. Amen
Travel safe, be happy & get involved, Merritt Mosby Northwest Chapter, President
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2010 11 Chapter News: South Central The South Central Chapter rallied in Oklahoma City from September 20th - 23rd. Oklahoma City is a great venue for a weekend or a week. The city is a wonderful place for a rally with many things to see and do. We could have used more days thereKeep to see more thanIn we Touch did. A couple who have been members of our chapter for a short time and had attended two rallies prior to be- ing Wagon Masters, Robin Fagala and Myrna Haden, did an outstanding job of hosting their first rally. The park was very nice with all the buildings and amenities needed for a great rally. Of course a rally is not a rally unless you eat too much. The Cowboy Hall of Fame had an excellent buffet lunch for us to enjoy.
We visited the Murrah Memorial, and I know I’m not the only one who got a little emotional there. The The chapter had an election of officers reflecting pool is where 6th Street used to be before the and elected Mary Jane Hebert to serve as president. This blast. will be her third year to serve and we know she will do a great job as usual.
We had a couple of members with medical problems, but fortunately we have a doctor and an anesthetist in our chapter and they both went to their aid. As of this writing they are both doing well. Our next rally will be our Christmas Rally at the casino in Durant, Oklaho- ma. That rally will be held December 2nd -5th .
Remember our troops, our president and our country in your thoughts and prayers. Re- member to exercise your right to vote on November 2nd. You may be able to see the chairs on the lawn of the memorial that represent each of the 168 people who lost Dick Holmes their lives that day; it is an awe inspiring sight. President South Central Chapter The Western Heritage Museum and Cowboy Hall of Fame were really fun places to visit.
12 ACA ACROSS AMERICA Chapter News: Missouri Valley Mac Pack Greetings from the Missouri Valley Chapter. What a Summer – boy am I glad this season is over! What a hot, humid super rally we had at the Clay County Fair in Spen- summer we have had in the Carolinas. But, it seems that I have cer, Iowa. Our hosts, Deb Weir and Bill Bramley, had heard the same comments from everyone. Mother Nature at everything planned to perfection – great breakfasts, work again!! Regardless Keepof the weather, IIn hope allTouch of you had a marvelous dinners and smoke cooker winners. The great time wherever your travels led you this summer. fair was packed with fun, but being with friends was We are entering my favorite time of year – fall. This season we even better. In addition to Linda and I and our great will be spending time and seeing the fall colors in a new area for hosts, those attending were Donna and Jim Catron, us, Memphis, Tenn. By the time this magazine is published, Jim Corbin, Don and Carol Harter, Norma and Dale Mac Pack will have spent some serious quality time in Memphis Hassman, Bill and Betty Land, Roland Loomis (new at our working rally. We will be putting together some final member), Hil and James Monahan, Cindy and Hans plans for the May 2011 ACA National Spring Rally that Mac Nitch, Carol and bill Soutter, Barbara and Ronnie Pack will be hosting. Memphis will be the first rally of the new Weeks and Donna and Matt Wolf. Nancy and Harry ACA rally format of one national rally each year. We hope to Cromer were on their way to the rally and had to turn offer our association members an eclectic mix of things to do, around because of personal reasons. places to explore, seminars, vendors, tours, entertainment that will be a first for many of them. Hosting a national rally is not As soon as we returned home, we started preparing for easy – it takes the time, commitment and enthusiasm from all our trip to the ACA Rally in Las Vegas. We had four chapter members to be successful, so we look forward to a full coaches, including ourselves, in attendance. We had a complement of Mac Pack chapter members pitching in and doing their part to insure that all of our ACA friends and family great time with the Soutters, Corbins and Monahans. have a good time. What a wonderful location for a rally. RV world was there with eight coaches, there were beautiful door Frankie and I were very disappointed that we were not able to prizes, the food was great and the RV spaces were very make the Las Vegas rally, but 4,000 miles of traveling this year nice. There were great vendors and interesting semi- pointed out some “fix me” needs on the coach. Unfortunately, nars; we learned a lot! Thank you to the Southwest our appointment at Camp Decatur did not allow us enough Chapter for a great job. time to make the trip west.
After the rally we headed back east via Yuma, Ariz. It I have to keep looking at the calendar to convince myself that was nice to see so many friends along the way and even Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas are just a few months more fun catching up with our fellow members who away. Why is it that days and months move at lightning speed are staying in Yuma. But, we will have to be back in now? I can remember an age when time moved at a snail’s pace, Missouri for the holidays. now we can’t slow it down, regardless of all our pleading to Father Time. Between Mother Nature and Father Time, we do a lot of complaining, don’t we? If you are on the road, have safe travels. Remember our troops and our country in your prayers. I hope everyone enjoys the upcoming seasons and takes ad- vantage of the opportunity to get out and explore the beautiful Ray Smith scenery that we have during this special Missouri Valley Chapter President time of year. Make sure you remember to save the date for our annual Winter Rally at Lazy Days, January 17 – 20, 2011. It’s a great way to start the winter – visiting with your Mac Pack friends. Safe travels to all. Skipper Campbell Mac Pack President
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2010 13 Chapter News: Northern California Southern California
Greetings from the Northern California Chapter. Here we are At this time, many of the SoCal members are preparing at the end of September, and it’s already time for another news- to make their way toward Las Vegas and the American letter. These warm fall days get me in the mood to travel. Coach Association National Rally. Of course, I realize Keep In Touchby the time you read this, the rally will be long over and Speaking of traveling, the ACA National Rally in Las Vegas will we’ll all be thinking about the upcoming holidays. Still, be history when you read this. With the exception of a short it’s nice to anticipate hopping in the motorhome and trip with Joe and Debbie Darby, Nancy and I have stayed home gathering with our friends from near and far. Many of for most of the summer. She has been working like a dog and expects me to do the same. I am looking forward to getting on our members will be attending the Vegas rally. Ben and the road next week when we leave for the rally. I are personally looking forward to the rally since we haven’t been to a national rally since November, 2008. Sadly, I have to report the passing of long time Northern It’s not that we didn’t want to go, but that four letter California Chapter member, Frank DiSalvo. Frank and his wife word – WORK - got in the way! Speaking of work, let Grace were very active in the chapter until recently. Frank was me now thank the Southwest Chapter for hosting the one of my favorites, and I will miss him dearly. Our condo- Las Vegas rally. The visuals have been awesome and en- lences go out to Grace and the family. ticing. From everything I hear and read, it sounds like it’s going to be a fun and unique rally and we appreciate American Coach recently announced that the Revolution is their efforts in changing it up a bit. now included in the American Coach line of luxury coaches. This is great news! The ACA Board of Directors has already rec- So, what’s new with the SoCal group? Summer and fall ommended a by-law change that will allow the Revolution to be is a great time for our chapter members to “just get out part of the ACA, however, it will take a vote of the membership there”. While I don’t have all the information, here’s to make it official. I am really looking forward to welcoming the Revolution to our wonderful organization. what I do know: Pete & Eileen Smoot, and daughter Alex (visiting from France), Debbie & Joe Darby, and I recently received a note that Earlene Alves is in now home Norma & Jerry Dunn attended the ACC rally in Can- after spending over a month at UC Davis Medical Center with yonville, Oregon. On the way home, Norma & Jerry a serious illness. I understand that she is doing well and steadily went to their secret fishing hole and caught a school of getting better. Please keep Earlene and husband Frank in your fish! Ben and I caught up with Norma & Jerry and Pete prayers. Hopefully they will be back in their coach soon. and Eileen in Long Beach, Cal. and spent a beautiful, long weekend at the Golden Shores RV Park. The RV We are still looking for a member to host a rally. If anybody has park is close to the home of Bob & Kim Daniels, long any ideas, please feel free to contact me. I think about the only time SoCal members who recently sold their coach, dates we may want to avoid would be the time right before and so Norma & Jerry got to visit with them too. Golden right after the ACA National Rally in Memphis. I feel that we Shores RV Park is between the Long Beach Harbor and should do everything we can to not interfere with a all the happenings in downtown Long Beach and there’s national rally. a nice long bike trail and lots to see along the way. There’s not much else to report, so I’ll wish you all safe travels, and please remember the men and Another group caravanned to the ACA National Rally women of our Armed Forces in Gillette, Wyoming and had a lot of laughs along the that work so hard to maintain our way: Gary & Pat Adams, Ray & Joanne Lamb, and Tom freedom. & Gloria Jorhdahl. They then met up with Willie & Marilyn Morris at the ACC Rally. Gary enlisted the me- George Borecky, President chanical expertise of Ray & Tom when his motorhome Northern California Chapter wouldn’t start. After hours of listening and trying their
14 ACA ACROSS AMERICA Chapter News: suggestions, Tom suggested the tried and true method – chapter in your life! Marv & Linda Karsten took off at yes, percussion persuasion. And guess what, it worked. the first inclination of the thermometer hitting 100 and So don’t leave home without your hammer. spent the summer in Crescent City. They also attended the ACC rally in Canyonville, and spent time in Sacra- Lanny & Mary Wilson, and their daughter Kristine mento and Pismo Beach. News Flash – a rumor persists left in May and visited their old stomping grounds – Linda is still beating theKeep pants off MarvIn in TouchWii bowling. Wenatchee, Washington. Along the way, they visited Go Linda – Go Linda – Go Linda! the Oregon Coast, Idaho, Utah and Nevada. By the way, Mary highly recommends the accommodations at Joe & Debbie Darby, having been out and about in the Mercy Medical Center in Roseburg, Oregon. If you their motorhome for over five months making the circle need your appendix out while on vacation, Mercy is the tour from Gillette, spent some of the summer at home. place! Susan & Scott Rose, Bob & Becky Clapper, and Bill & Sharon Scott used Gillette as their kick off spot These are the trips I know about, and I’m sure there’s and then made their way across the U.S. to Niagara more. As you can see, no matter what the economy, Falls. Along the way they took in the Corn Palace, the whether you’re working or have left that behind, all of Wall Drugstore, and the Upper Peninsula of Michi- us are committed to enjoying our life on wheels with gan. Sal & Leslie Speziale left Gillette and then made our friends. Keep it up! It’s good for the economy, it’s their way through Washington, Oregon and Northern good for the places we visit, and it’s good for our health. California. We have two upcoming rallies scheduled. The newly Don & Judy Katz celebrated their 50th anniversary in elected board of the SoCal Chapter is hosting a rally in September by renting a yacht and inviting friends to Rancho, California over Veteran’s Day. We look for- celebrate with them. Here’s to another 50 years Don & ward to honoring those who served our country and Judy! Speaking of fun times, Charlie & Sharon Miller enjoying the camaraderie of our fun-infused group. partied up a storm for Charlie’s birthday. They rolled Coming up on February 10 – 13, 2011, Pete & Eileen up the carpet and partied like it was 1984. Happy (be- Smoot and Lanny & Mary Wilson are hosting a rally lated) Birthday, Charlie! at one of my favorite venues, Emerald Desert in Palm Desert. I’ve heard they will be doing some cooking for Art & Sandy Bridges and Jim & Marylee Caldwell us, so I’m really looking forward to this rally. Those four made their annual trip to Winchester Bay in Oregon, are experienced foodies and whatever they choose to where they delighted in catching, eating, and bragging serve will be delightful. And, Palm Desert in February about all the crabs and clams they caught. I’m hungry is blissful. Any other chapter members are welcome to just thinking about it. attend. Hope to see you there!
Sherrie & Dennis Baker have returned to the mainland Sign me – living the dream! after spending a couple of years in Hawaii, and we’re ex- Beverly A. Petty, President cited that we’ll be seeing them in Vegas and at our Vet- Southern California Chapter eran’s Day Rally. I’m sure it was hard to leave the island’s cool breezes, but it will be so fun to see them; it’s been way too long. John & Sue Thomas sold their home, along with a lot of “stuff” and are now full-timing in their motorhome. John has another couple of days at work, but, again, as we read this, he will have pulled up the anchor and sailed away from the eight to five. Con- gratulations John, we hope you and Sue enjoy this new
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2010 15 Chapter News: Southeast Hello to everyone from the Southeast Chapter. I am in and it sounds like a lot of fun. Some of the activities are Decatur picking up our coach after having the sidewalls a guided tour of the Myakka River on an airboat, din- changed. Doty and I can’t wait to get on the road again. ner at the Dutch Heritage Restaurant, and a tour of the We’ve been home in Mobile for most of the hot, hot Selby Botanical Gardens. summer. Keep In Touch The Southeast Chapter annual business meeting is also While we were stuck at home, we had a visit from Stew planned for the January rally at Lazy days. The dates are and Mary Macfarlane, Jim and Irene Rizzuto, and January 13 – 16. Pricing is not yet available, but should Johnny and Joani Farrell. The Macfarlanes and the be around $275.00. We have a limited number of sites Rizzutos were on their way to the ACA National Rally available, so register early. Dan and Renee Lee will be in Las Vegas. We wish we could have gone with them. the hosts for this rally, so you know we are going to have While the Farrells were here, we celebrated Johnny’s a good time. This is where we elect all of the officers for birthday (he is older than dirt). We always love to have the chapter. Please consider running for an office. All folks stop and visit with us, so if you ever find yourself officers are elected for a one year term with two consec- traveling through Mobile, please give us a call. We are utive terms being the maximum you can serve. We are just 7 1/2 miles straight south of I-10 at exit 10. also looking for someone to volunteer for the newsletter editor. This job is not really very difficult, and you don’t The Southeast Chapter has two rallies coming up. First, have to write the entire newsletter, just edit it and put it we will be at the Quail Run RV Park in Wesley Chapel, together. The job comes with an HP Laser Printer to use Florida. This will probably be fond memories by the for printing the newsletter. time you get this issue but, we will have a service crew from Lazy Days there to do service on your coaches. We Here is a note from Stew, who attended the ACA Na- have been given some very special prices for the service tional Rally in Las Vegas. “The rally is over and we had on the back of the registration. If you need something a great time although we did not get to see any shows done, take advantage of this. We have shopping and due to our poor planning and lack of time. Five coaches golf planned plus a couple of on site activities. Sonny’s were sold by the dealer - four Eagles and one Revolu- BBQ will cater most of the meals along with breakfast tion. I believe we had four Revolutions attending the provided by the RV park. Lazy days will be sponsoring rally as guests. We had eight Southeast coaches attend- the wine and cheese for this rally and for the Christ- ing. All Revolution owners will be accepted as ACA mas Rally. Thank you Ken and Matt; bring plenty of members in the future. We voted to go back to two Merlot. rallies instead of one per year starting in 2012.
LazyDays RV is having an American Coach Preview As you know, next year’s rally will be in Memphis and it Rally just five days after our Quail Run Rally. The will be the only one for the year. We nominated Doug actual dates are November 12 - 15, and the price will Thompson for president and John Corcoran for vice be $90.00. If you want to see the new 2011 American president.” Coaches and have a good time for a great price, you can get more details and register at http://www.lazydays. Hope to see everyone at the rallies! com/AmericanCoachRally/ or call 800-350-6731. Jim Graham The second rally will be at the Sun ‘N’ Fun RV Resort Southeast Chapter President in Sarasota, Florida. The dates for this one are Decem- ber 2 - 6. This is our Christmas Rally and is always a blast. Don’t forget the “Dirty Santa” gift exchange. Gifts should not exceed $25. Coaches can be decorated and we will have prizes for the best ones. Ron Molway has been working hard to set up some activities for us
16 ACA ACROSS AMERICA American Coach Association National 2011 Spring Rally
Blues, Soul & Rock ‘n’ Roll
Let’s all gather on May 16 – 21, 2011 for the ACA National Spring Rally in Memphis, TN at the Memphis Agricenter hosted by the MAC Pack chapter. The Agricenter is a great venue with a beautiful RV park with 300 plus sites.
Enjoy the serenity of country living at the RV Park, or step out of the park and enjoy the convenience of the city. Walk to the Farmer’s Market or take your bike on the biking trail. You will be close to Interstate 40 and 240, but not close enough to hear traffic. Outside the Agricenter are restaurants, shopping, museums and music. This venue has a convention center, so if by chance we have a spring storm, we’ll be dry and cozy enjoying the camaraderie of our friends.
You know the MAC Pack will roll out the red carpet for their guests and provide great entertainment, good food, and plenty of activities both at the rally and in the surrounding area. You could spend all of your time at the rally, and we would encourage that. However before and after the awesome rally, take some time to enjoy Memph is. There is something for everyone in and around Memphis. They are famous for barbeque and licking your fingers is not only encouraged, but almost mandated. Memphis has a variety of barbeque – wet, dry, shoulder or rib. And we’re in luck, around the time we’ll be in Memphis, the World Championship Barbeque Cooking Competition will be held. Not a fan of barbeque? In every neighborhood Memphis delivers a range of cuisine from all over the world.
Music The blues was born and evolved in Memphis. Memphis has a particular style of blues. Memphis blues was created in the 20’s and 30’s by a small group of musicians. It was popular in vaudeville and was associated with Beale Street. After World War II, musicians gravitated to Memphis and changed the sound of the blues. Musicians like Ike Turner and B.B. King performed on Beale Street and recorded electric blues, rhythm and blues and rock and roll for companies like Sun Records. These new artists provided a strong influence on the early rock and rollers and rockabillies. Many ended up recording at Sun Studios. And then came Elvis! Beale Street has 15 to 20 nightclubs where you can dance to the many bands and artists who perform nightly. Beale Street…home of the blues and the birthplace of rock ‘n roll.
Graceland, Gibson and Guitars A trip to Memphis would be incomplete without a trip to the National Historic Landmark known as Graceland. Step into the blue suede shoes of Elvis and see, feel, and touch one of his favorite places. When Elvis first moved to Graceland, it was out in the country. Now, Graceland feels like it’s in the heart of the city. You can tour the mansion, a museum and his vintage automobiles and airplanes. Return to the comfort of your motorhome and have a fried peanut butter and banana sandwich. Yum! World famous Gibson Guitars opens their doors for tours. The Memphis facility is used for semi-hollow and custom shop instruments. After you’ve visited the factory that makes guitars, step into the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, a Smithsonian Institute with 7 galleries telling the complete Memphis music story.
Museums and Points of Interest It would be impossible to list all of the points of interest in Memphis. But for a start, you have the National Civil Rights Museum; the Cotton Museum at the Memphis Cotton Exchange; Mud Island River Park and Mississippi River Museum; Chucalissa Archaeological Museum; along with the Alex Haley House and the Woodruff-Fontaine House…and so much more. The Memphis Pink Palace Museum, the 36,500 SF home of Memphian Clarence Saunders – the father of the self-service grocery and founder of the supermarket chain Piggly Wiggley – is home to a w ide—ranging collection of fascinating historic, scientific and technological attractions.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2010 17 And just for fun…
The Peabody Hotel, located in central Memphis, is probably the only hotel that has an employee with the title “Duckmaster.” The time-honored tradition of the March of The Peabody Ducks began at the hotel in 1932. At 11 a.m. each morning, The Peabody Ducks march to John Philip Sousa's “King Cotton March” along a red carpet from their rooftop Royal Duck Palace to the famous travertine marble fountain in the Grand Lobby. They splash and preen in the lobby until 5 p.m., when the procession reverses and the ducks retire for the evening.
And let’s not forget Tunica – The third largest gaming city behind Las Vegas and Atlantic City. Tunica is located just south of Memphis. Go ahead, try your luck.
Got your interest yet; if not, there is more:
Memphis Rock “n” Roll Museum...A seven gallery chronicle of Memphis’ musical connection to the world.
Stax Museum of American Soul Music…This museum is on the original site of Stax Records.
Memphis Brooks Museum of Art…A registered National Landmark.
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital…One of our country’s largest health-care charities.
Memphis Zoo…The 100+ year old Memphis Zoo is one of our nation’s finest.
Fire Museum of Memphis…Stop, drop and roll into the fire museum.
Main Street Trolley...Explore downtown by taking the trolley.
Collierville…A grand historic square in the heart of town, known for its quaint and one of a kind boutiques.
Germantown…One of the oldest Shelby County neighborhoods with unique shopping and great restaurants.
So in Memphis, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy the first ACA rally east of the Mississippi following two ACA rallies in the west. Join the MAC Pack for what will be a fabulous rally with all the elements of a good time: friends, food, and fun!
18 ACA ACROSS AMERICA TENTATIVE AGENDA ACA Memphis National Rally, May 16-21, 2011
Monday - May 16, 2011 - Arrival Date Thursday – May 19, 2011 7:30 – 4:00 American Coach Service 7:30 – 4:00 American Coach Service 8:00 – 5:00 Member Coaches arrive/check-in 7:30 - 9:00 Full Breakfast 12:00 – 4:00 Vendors Open 8:30 – 4:00 Information Table open 12:00 – 5:00 Information Table open Book Swap open Book Swap open 9:00 – 4:00 Vendors Open 12:00 – 4:30 Show Coaches open 9:00 – 5:00 Show Coaches open 1:00 – 3:00 ACA Board Meeting 9:00 – 12:00 Seminars – See Schedule 3:30 – 4:00 Ambassador’s Briefing 12:00 –3:00 Graceland Tour 4:00 – 4:30 First Timer’s Orientation 1:00 – 5:00 Seminars – See Schedule 5:00 – 6:00 Opening Ceremony 4:30 – 5:30 Chapter Socials 6:00 – 8:30 Welcome Reception Dinner on your own 7:30 – 10:30 After Dark Dinner Tour Tuesday - May 17, 2011 7:30 – 4:00 American Coach Service Friday – May 10, 2011 7:30 – 9:00 Full Breakfast 7:30 – 4:00 American Coach Service 8:30 Golf - Tee Time 7:30 – 9:00 Full Breakfast 8:30 – 4:00 Information Table open 8:00 - 12:00 Information Table open Book Swap open 9:00 – 10:30 ACA Board Meeting 9:00 – 12:00 Seminars – See Schedule 9:00 – 12:00 Seminars - see schedule 9:00 – 4:00 Vendors open 9:00 – 2:00 Vendors open - optional 9:00 – 5:00 Show Coaches open 9:00 – 5:00 Show Coaches open 10:00 – 1:00 City of Memphis Tour 10:30 – 11:30 Future Rally Meeting 1:00 – 5:00 Seminars – See Schedule 1:00 – 5:00 Seminars – see schedule 2:00 – 4:00 Blue Guitar Stroll 2:00 – 4:00 River Boat Tour 4:30 – 5:30 Chapter Socials 4:30 – 5:30 Chapter Socials Dinner on your own 6:00 – 9:00 Dinner - Farewell to Memphis 7:00 – 11:00 Harrahs Casino Shuttle Tour Saturday – May 21, 2011 Wednesday – May 18, 2011 11:00 AM - Check out time 7:30 – 4:00 American Coach Service 7:30 – 9:00 Full Breakfast 8:30 – 10:00 Information Table open Book Swap open 10:00 – 11:00 ACA General Membership Meeting 11:00 - 12:00 American Coach/Fleetwood Meeting
12:00 – 4:00 American Coach Service 12:00 – 4:00 Information Table open Book Swap open 12:00 – 4:00 Vendors open 12:00 – 5:00 Show Coaches Open 1:00 – 5:00 Seminars – See Schedule 1:00 – 2:00 Men – American Coach Roundtable 2:00 – 3:00 Ladies – American Coach Roundtable 4:30 – 5:30 Chapter Socials 6:00 – 8:30 Dinner - Let the Good Times Roll
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2010 19 Golf Day Tuesday, May 17, 2011 Tee Time: 8:30 a.m.
Welcome Golfers! For your enjoyment we have planned a great day of golf at the Stonebridge Golf Course located about 8 miles from the Agricenter. The course has been rated “the most enjoyable course in Memphis” by Golf Digest. It plays 5582 yards for men and 4954 yards for the ladies, and is an excellent layout with a very accommodating staff.
We plan to have a box lunch consisting of a deli sandwich, chips, and cookies. Soft drinks/water will be available on the course. After play, prizes will be awarded for winners, closest to the pin and longest drive. The format of play will be Four Person Modified Scramble with teams being made up using handicaps. Players may ask to play with other individuals or teams by name.
The cost is $70 per person and includes cart, lunch and range balls. All carts will have a GPS on board for an additional $1 per cart.
For those interested in playing please fill in the blanks below and send with your rally registration to Phyllis Ingram, 2402 New Holland Rd., Wagener, SC, 29164. You may also provide the information below by email to: [email protected] . Thank you.
Note: Soft spikes are required and for those who want to “look it over” the site is www.stonebridgegolf.com. In case of a rain out, fee will be refunded except for food costs.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Name: ______Handicap______/18 hole average______Ham Sandwich ______Turkey Sandwich ______
Name: ______Handicap______/18 hole average______Ham Sandwich ______Turkey Sandwich______
Phone: ______Active Email: ______
20 ACA ACROSS AMERICA
The Mac Pack Chapter Welcomes you to The Spring National ACA Rally At the “Home of the Blues and the Birthplace of Rock & Roll” Memphis, Tennessee
Our chapter members have lined up many different and exciting activities for your enjoyment. This is a special time to be in Memphis because of The World Championship Barbeque Cooking Competition going on during the time of the rally. In addition to our Vendors, the Seminars, Randy‛s Crew, and the Show Coaches, we have many other Special Offerings for your enjoyment.
Tour of Graceland: (3 hours) Includes: Mansion, Lisa Marie and Hound Dog airplanes; Sincerely Elvis Museum; Car Museum; and Private Presley $45.00
Riverboat Tour: (2.5 hour) tour on the Mississippi $30.00
City of Memphis Tour: (3 hours) see the famous sights of Memphis $25.00
Casino Shuttle: (4 hours) One of the best casinos in Tunica, Mississippi $25.00 includes $10.00 slot money
After Dark Dinner Tour: Includes 2 drinks, 2 clubs, 2 shows, plus dinner $60.00
*Above tours include bus transportation and prices are per person. A minimum of 15 people are required for each tour.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2010 21 2011 American Coach Association Spring National Rally Memphis, Tennessee May 16 – 21, 2011 Hosted by the Mac Pack Chapter
“Blues, Soul, & Rock “n” Roll”
Name(s)______Guest(s)______Address______Active E-Mail______City ______State ______Zip ______Home Phone ( ) ______Cell Phone ( ) ______Emergency Contact Name ______Phone Number ( )______First National Rally? ____ Yes ____ No ACA# ______ACA Chapter Name______
American Coach Product Only
Coach Length ______feet Chapter Parking Preference ______Handicap parking? _____ Yes (Handicap placard required and parking is not available with chapter.)
ACA Members are responsible for their early arrival and late departure campground registration. Contact: Mark Hoggard, ([email protected]), 901.757.7777, Ext. 7200, (c) 901.355.1977
Fee Schedule (Payable in American Dollars) Anyone registering before Feb 28, 2011 will be eligible for a $100.00 gift certificate drawing.
Number Amount 1 Coach – 2 People $389.00 ______1 Coach – 1 Person $289.00 ______Extra Person (9 and over) $100.00 ea ______Children (8 and under) Free ______Tour of Graceland $ 45.00 ea ______Riverboat Tour $ 30.00 ea ______City of Memphis Tour $ 25.00 ea ______Casino Shuttle $ 25.00 ea ______After Dark Dinner Tour $ 60.00 ea ______Golf (golf form information required) $ 70.00 ea ______TOTAL ENCLOSED ______
LIMITED REFUNDS AFTER APRIL 30TH
Make checks payable to: ACA/MAC PACK and mail check and registration form to: Phyllis Ingram, 2402 New Holland Rd., Wagener, SC 29164 Phone 803.564.5085, Cell 803.606.1312, E-mail [email protected].
In consideration of the American Coach Association accepting this reservation for the National Rally mentioned above, I (we) agree to hold harmless, release and discharge the American Coach Association, its officers, directors, representatives, agents, servants, and employees as well as the Mid Atlantic Chapter and other organizers of the rally, their insurers and all others acting in their behalf (collectively the “ACA”) of and from any and all claims, debts, liabilities, actions and causes of action, whether known or unknown, anticipated or unanticipated, arising out of or in connection with my (our) attendance at the National Rally, or traveling to or from the National Rally. I (we) agree that we will bring no claims, actions, or causes of action against the ACA based on any of the foregoing.
Signed ______Date ______
Signed ______Date ______
22 ACA ACROSS AMERICA
TO BE COMPLETED BY AMERICAN COACH SERVICE
Site # ______Group ______Day/Time ______Control # ______
American Coach Service Request ACA National Rally Memphis, Tennessee May 16 – 21, 2011
Name:______
Address: ______City, State, Zip:______
Home Phone: ______Cell Phone: ______
Email Address: ______
Unit FIN #: ______Chassis VIN #:______
Model Year of Coach: ______Model Brand:______
I will arrive at the rally on (Date)______(Day)______(Time)______(Your arrival information is critically important for scheduling purposes.)
Please complete and mail this form to:
Rally Service Coordinator – American Coach 1420 Patterson Street, Decatur, IN 46733 FAX: 260.728.2951 - Questions: 877.735.6303
Please Note: THE DEADLINE FOR RETURN ING THIS FORM IS April 27, 2011
List service requests from the most important to the least important. (PLEASE No Paint, Tape or Decals – Functional Items Only) Limited to six items for units under warranty; one item for units no longer under warranty.
1. ______
2. ______
3. ______
4. ______
5. ______
6. ______
Chassis Problems: Type of Chassis ______
1. ______
2. ______
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2010 23 AMERICAN COACH SERVICE INFORMATION
Please Note: The Deadline for Returning this Form is April 27, 2011
Service Guidelines
Because we are not equipped with required fall-protection at rallies, no Fleetwood Associate will be allowed to get on top of a coach roof at any time.
No Fleetwood Associate will be allowed to work under a unit at a rally. Repairs requiring lifting/jacking of coach will not be performed at a rally. Certain repairs of doors or windows or windshields cannot be performed at a rally. Awning tension adjustments must be done by the awning manufacturer.
It has been a long-standing policy of the Service Facility that we cannot address the following items at rallies:
Paint and body repairs Installing accessories Cosmetic/appearance repairs Water filters and maintenance services
Request Deadline
Please submit your list on or before April 27, 2011 – the absolute deadline. We must have your list at least three weeks before the rally in time to obtain parts and transport them to the rally. Repairs will be scheduled in the order received.
When at the Rally
Please check in with the Service Representative Scheduler upon arrival. He may need to have someone present while service is performed.
Rally Service Policy
Service work at the rally will be performed in the following priority:
First: Emergency items Second: Units that are under warranty – limit six items Third: Units no longer under warranty – one item, unless time and resources allow additional items In all cases, functional items have highest priority. Non-functional items have lowest priority; however, no paint, tape, or decals. Please list problems in order of importance, from most important first to least important. Explain each item in detail so we can determine whether parts are needed. Items added at a later date will be added to the end of the schedule and performed only if time permits. Note: Coaches not registered as part of the rally will not be worked on.
Chassis Problems
All coaches: Limit of two chassis problems. Some chassis repairs cannot be made at a rally. Some chassis repairs may be subject to charges to the customer. If you list chassis problems, please note your coach type of chassis.
Please remember that not every problem can be resolved at the rally site. Should additional work be required at a shop facility, the Service Department will assist you in determining your needs and scheduling your repairs.
Thank you, Randy Hendricks Rally Service Supervisor Fleetwood & American Coach Service 877.735.6303
24 ACA ACROSS AMERICA Chapter News:
of the Happy Wanderers so you can learn from some Happy Wanderers of our members who have been full-timing for over 20 years. Even if you own a home, you can be a mem- As the new president of the Happy Wanderers Chapter ber of the Happy Wanderers. Not only do we have a of ACA, I would like to thank Margaret Harker, our wealth of information to share, we all have a good time. outgoing president and Carol Ball, our outgoing trea- surer, for their many years of dedicated service to the If you are interested,Keep please call Nancy In Crossan, Touch our Happy Wanderers Chapter. At the same time Secre- Membership Chairwoman at 410-490-3574, or email tary, Linda Coleman, Member at Large, Bill Evans and her at ([email protected]) or you can just send I, would like to welcome Don Miller as vice president $20.00 ( $5.00 initiation fee & $15.00 annual dues) and Nancy Crossan as treasurer to our team; I’m sure to Nancy Crossan, Membership Chair, PMB 365439, they will do a great job for the chapter. 3590 Roundbottom Rd., Cincinnati, Ohio 45244. Twenty-one lucky Happy Wanderers took advantage of the opportunity to attend the Indigo Bluffs RV Resort Photo contest winners rally in Empire, Michigan, near Bill Makowski, Lake Michigan. This paid-in-full rally started off with a HWC President welcome party of drinks and hors d’oeuvres. The group enjoyed a poker run with prizes, entertainment plus breakfast and dinner’s, a secret adventure and tubing down the Platte River to Lake Michigan. We toured VEGAS RALLY Sleeping Bear Dunes State Park, attended a Traverse City Beach Bums baseball game, went through a Corn Maze and finally had a farewell dinner of Kentucky SNAP SHOTS Burgoo, lake salmon, chicken, salad and dessert. We did all if this in five days and enjoyed every minute of it. If you are in Michigan stop by Indigo Bluff’s RV Resort in Empire, Michigan just west of Traverse City, (800-224- 4888). Gary Becker, the owner and our hosts Janice and Jim treated us like family.
The next Happy Wanderers Rally will be at Lazy Day’s Rally Park on January 16 – 19, 2011. Also, remember that we will be having a pre-rally prior to the ACA National Rally in Memphis, place and date to be an- nounced. Please refer to the Chapter Rally Sites: Mark Your Calendar page in this magazine.
The Happy Wanderers would like to welcome our new members Richard (Sam) and Billie Samsel from Hanes City, Florida who, by the way, are on their way to meet up with the Happy Wanderers in Las Vegas.
Why not consider joining the Happy Wanderers, the only chapter that encompasses the entire United States. We know that every RV’er thinks about full-timing in the future. May we suggest that you become a member
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2010 25 Nominating Committee Report:
Chairman Margaret Harker, on behalf of the Nominating Committee, composed of all American Coach Association (ACA) Chapter Presidents or President’s designates, submitted an initial slate of candidates for President and Vice President to the ACA Board of Directors on 10-15-2010.
President – Doug Thompson, Southeast Chapter Vice-President – John Corcoran, Great Lakes Chapter
The American Coach Association By laws regarding elections are as follows:
ARTICLE 8 ELECTIONS
8.1 - The ACA shall conduct an annual election of officers, on a biennial term basis, in the spring of each calendar year. The President and Vice President shall be elected on odd numbered years and the Secretary and Treasurer, elected on even numbered years. The terms of office for the newly elected officers shall com- mence at the closing banquet at the Spring National Rally
8.2……... No nominee shall be considered or nominated for any national office unless he or she has served at least one full term as an officer (President, Vice President, Secretary or Treasurer) of a recognized chapter of ACA or as a past ACA National Officer. The nominating committee shall prepare the initial list of nomi- nees prior to the last Board of Directors meeting of the Fall National ACA Rally.
8.3. ……...Other members that qualify according to Article 8.2 may be nominated by a minimum of five (5) regular members. The name of each nominee and the five (5) regular members who are proposing the nominee, along with a written statement from the nominee that he or she is willing to serve if elected, are to be submitted to the ACA Secretary no later than December 1. Each nominee should submit a resume of no more than 200 words with a picture to the ACA Secretary by December 1. The ACA Secretary will provide the Magazine Editor with all proposed nominees’ names, along with available pictures and resumes, for inclusion in the January-February magazine.
7.3 - Duties of the president The duty of the president shall be to preside at all meetings, both of the membership and of the Board of Directors and, with the Secretary, to sign the record of the proceedings of all such meetings; to sign and ex- ecute all written contracts and obligations of the ACA; to enforce all the By-Laws and rules of ACA; to carry out the will of the Board of Directors; to appoint such committees as the President may deem appropriate; and to perform such other duties appropriate to that office.
Article 7.4 – Duties of the vice president It shall be the duty of the Vice President to assist the President in the discharge of his or her duties and, in the event of the President’s absence or disability, to officiate in his or her stead.
The ACA By laws are available for viewing on the ACA Web site.
If you meet the qualification and wish to be a candidate for one of these positions please submit your resume on of before December 1st by email, not to exceed 200 words to Mary Corcoran, ACA Secretary, jfcorco- [email protected].
26 ACA ACROSS AMERICA Tips & Tricks: Organizing Your Coach by Debbie Darby
Just a few years ago, we all yearned for more tile and less carpet in our coaches. American Coach listened, and gave us what we wanted, but with Murphy’s Law, we had a new problem. The slide out rollers attract grit, dirt, sand and other ‘stuff’ as we drive down the road. When the slide out rollers come across the tile, they scratch and mark the tiles beautiful surface. This is especially noticeable in the tile that has a glossy finish.
We remedied this problem by purchasing an appro- priate length of plastic carpet runner to put down on the tile before the slide out is brought in. We lay it down about two inches from the tiles edge. As soon as the roller hits the tile, it goes onto the runner and the runner captures the grit, protecting the tile from being marred. When it is cold, the rollers sometimes push the runner instead of rolling on it. When that happens, we use a piece of blue painter’s tape at each end to keep this from happening.
All you need to do is measure the length of your slide box, and then go to any hardware or home improve- ment store to purchase the plastic carpet runner. Make sure and buy a runner that does not have ‘nubs’ on the back (for carpet only), and the pattern of ridges goes from side to side, rather than end to end. If you use the end to end, when the roller comes across, it’s like hitting speed bumps as it goes - not what you want to happen! When not in use, just roll it up and secure it with a Velcro strap. Specializing in Front & Rear Alignment! We also offer FULL SERVICE and We have given this tip to friends who were having are an Authorized Dealer for Call for problems with tiles cracking and this remedied the Roadmaster Sway Bars. pricing. problem for them. It’s fast, it’s easy, and it’s cheap Just minutes from Fleetwood’s Decatur, Indiana and, it’s certainly cheaper than trying to replace a factory and service center. damaged tile! For more info or an appointment: Call Ron or Rex at 260-623-6093 For more information online: web site: www.monroevillechassis.com e-mail: [email protected]
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2010 27 ACA Scholarship ACA Website Foundation The Webmaster’s Report As I write this article, we are attending the Las Vegas ACA Rally. Fleetwood has assisted with Visitor traffic to the site was down by approxi- our scholarship fund-raising efforts by provid- mately 20 percent from 2008 to 2009, and by ing a number of clothing articles to raffle. We another 20 percent 2009 to 2010. These figures are certainly hoping that some miracle occurs, most likely represent the decline in interest for so we can meet goal of ten scholarships for RV’ing and the sagging economy as well. I am not 2011. Only time will tell. too disappointed in the numbers, as they accu- rately reflect the overall economic picture we see At the Vegas rally, Dick Holmes, President of in the country. the South Central Chapter, challenged the other chapters to a competition on fund raising for the During this time, we have been striving to pro- scholarship fund for next year. His chapter has vide some additional content, keep our informa- already raised well over $1,000, and they are tion up to date, and provide access to downloads still going strong - just like the Energizer Bun- as needed by our members. The time is nearing ny. They will be hard to beat, but he challenges again to undergo a full refresh of the site. Care everyone to try. will be given to providing better pathways to web I can’t say enough about how much ACA stands crawlers, spiders and robots, in an effort to bet- behind the scholarship project and its goals. ter attract them to our site, preparing for the time Our efforts are to show, in some small way, how that activity picks back up again. We are hoping much we appreciate the work of the families in that our site will return a higher level of hits when Decatur, as they create the wonderful products those searches are performed down the road. which we so much enjoy piloting down the road from state to state on our RV travels. We appreciate any input you may have regarding things you’d like to see, or not see, on the web site. Each year, these scholarship awards are given We are just trying to provide a place for informa- to the most deserving graduating students who tion to keep you, theACA members, up to date are the children of non-management Fleetwood with changes and events going on within your staff. Your contributions to this effort are great- association. We’d love to hear your ideas. ly appreciated. Again, we are a 501C-3 organi- zation, allowing for your contributions to be tax Thanks in advance, advantaged to most all contributors. Be sure to Doug Thompson, check with your tax professional for your par- The Web Guy ticular situation.
We drive the best; we should be happy to help the next, best generation. Let me know if you have questions, comments, or ideas.
Doug Thompson, ACA Scholarship Chairman
28 ACA ACROSS AMERICA Rolling Recipes:
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN:Do you hAVE A RECIpE you woulD lIkE To ShARE? We’re also... looking for: hElpful hInTS! If so, please send it in to your editor: [email protected] or Jane Lihou • 9121 Atlanta Ave., #637 • Huntington Beach, CA 92646
Perfectly Moist & Flavorful Pork Loin on the Grill
6 garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped Heat the grill on high for about 10 minutes. ½ cup chopped mixed fresh herbs such as Reduce the heat to medium grill the pork parsley, sage, thyme and rosemary loin onFall all sides, keepingPork the lid Recipesclosed be- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil tween turning the pork. When the pork is One 5 ½ pound boneless pork loin evenly browned on all sides, wrap it in foil Salt and Pepper and put it back on the grill. Close the lid and cook for approximately ½ hour before using In a small bowl, combine the garlic, mixed a meat thermometer to check it. Keep check- herbs and olive oil. Season the loin with ing frequently and remove from the grill salt and pepper and coat with the herb slightly before it reaches the pork tempera- mixture. Tie the loin with string to make ture (it will continue cooking while it rests). an evenly thick piece of meat. Refrigerate Let rest for 10 minutes. Slice and serve. overnight or for up to 2 days. Bring the pork to room temperature before cooking. I served this with three kinds of mustard and some home-made applesauce.
Pork Chops in Wine from Betty Tilley’s fav recipes
6 pork chops Bake in oven at 350° for 20 minutes. Then 1 bottle of a wine that you enjoy drinking turn chops over and bake for 20 minutes Crushed red pepper (to your taste) longer. Salt and Pepper While waiting for chops to bake, enjoy the Pour wine into a 9 x 13 inch baking dish, rest of the wine or drink it with dinner. about ¼ to ½ inches deep. Add crushed red pepper to wine. Sprinkle pork chops with salt and pepper and place them into dish with wine.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2010 29 THE ROVING WRENCHER By Joe Bruno
Chassis Air System Air Dryer Bypass, In our motorhomes, while most circir- Revisited cuits are in view of the electrical panel, this tester allows you to check and After reading my last column, ACA identify circuits without the need for THE ROVING WRENCHER Member Dave Parsons wrote to me an extra set of hands. Once plugged about an alternative to the Spartan into any 110/120 electrical receptacle, Engine Belts Air Dryer Bypass Kit. His solution is the tester will light up in different ways a ½” pipe coupling. Cost $1.46, and to indicate one of the following condi- Every time I stick my head in the available to any hardware store. Add tions: 1) the circuit is either on or off, engine compartment, I visually check another $ .99 for plastic ½” NPT plugs and correct, 2) hot/neutral reversed, 3) various engine components such as (pictured here). hot/ground reversed, 4) open hot line, belts, hoses, etc. Recently, I found 5) open neutral, or 6) open ground. the serpentine belt on my ISM engine Because this tester provides instant in- shredding on one edge (pictured here). formation, I find myself using it more I also noticed the fan belt had some often than a regular voltmeter. unusual pinhole cracks. This The tester I use (and pictured here) is meant that a belt an Ideal Tester, p/n 61-500, which is change was in available from most Home Depots/ order. Lowes/Menards for less than $10.00. Dave went on to say that because the Because this gadget is so handy, I keep To change the serpentine belt on my existing elbows between the hoses it in the front console drawer of my rig. ISM engine, you have to remove the and the filter body must be removed fan belt. In so doing, it gave me a and reused, the time to complete the Batteries chance to examine the fan belt, and emergency repair might be ten min- its unusual cracks, in greater detail. utes instead of five minutes. He also As you know, we now have a new ACA To my surprise, indicated that while galvanized steel is Member Benefit that allows us to I found several not the best to use, 1) it will probably purchase Discover, Odyssey and Harris places along the never be used anyhow, 2) it wouldn’t Batteries at dealer cost. During the Las belt where small be used more than a day or two at the Vegas Rally, we were able to purchase rocks had become most, and 3) it costs much less than the these batteries for an even better, imbedded along Spartan part. You could add $3 to the below-dealer price. Harris Battery is the inside of the cost and get a bronze coupling. the OEM supplier to both Spartan and belt, and had Fleetwood. punctured the Thanks, Dave. I appreciate your feed- belt all the back, and yes, you are correct about Because of the positive response to this way through this alternative. deal, Harris Battery has now agreed to (pictured here). continue this special show price for our Useful Gadgets ACA members. The savings realized by In discussing this with a Spartan tech- buying just one battery at this special nician, I learned that this particular I don’t know member price more than covers the rock/puncture is not uncommon on whether I can con- cost of our ACA membership dues. the Spartan 2007/2008 K2 Chassis sider this a favorite The Harris Battery contact person is with the ISM engine. Sometime in gadget, but it sure Jim Thompson, who can be reached at 2009, Spartan changed the fan belt is handy. I’m 330-795-0773. And, for those of you to a serpentine belt, which corrected referring to some- who plan to attend our “If It’s Janu- several issues. It also turned the matter thing called an ary, It Must be Quartzsite” rally, we’re of changing belts on this engine from AC Circuit Tester, making arrangements so that you can a 1½ hour job to a 10 minute job. I’m designed for testing regular 110/120 pre-order your batteries and have them looking into the feasibility of convert- standard receptacles. delivered to you at the rally. ing my belt setup to the new one. In the next issue, I’ll be talking about how to boost your battery power.
30 ACA ACROSS AMERICA Justin Speaks An Update From American Coach As the fall season comes to an end join in the action. I want to thank the American Coach factory sales and winter looms ahead, we would RV World for supporting American team, developed by the American like to give our wonderful cus- Coach and ACA by attending the Coach product development team tomers an update from American rally. Mike Green, the owner of the and serviced by the American Coach. dealership, was in attendance and Coach service team. Revolution was made sure he personally looked at getting all the benefits of Ameri- It was great to see everyone at the each sales opportunity to ensure can Coach with no credit. We are ACA Rally in Las Vegas! On behalf they were doing everything they thrilled to announce the addition of American Coach, I would like to could to earn your business. Every- of the American Revolution to the thank the Southwest Chapter for one here at American Coach really family and I was happy to see that putting on such a great rally. It was appreciates the effort they put forth four Revolution owners made the a busy week for American Coach as during the rally. trip to the rally in Vegas. Randy and his team serviced many coaches. The sales team was busy After the rally we attended a ten day As we head closer to the November selling coaches and the owners were long RV Show in Pomona, Calif. it is hard to believe another holiday busy having fun! We even got John This RV show is one of the biggest season is upon us. I want to wish Draheim, President and CEO of in the country and certainly the everyone a safe and happy holiday Fleetwood RV to come the rally and largest on the west coast. Dur- season this year. There is a lot to he gave an update on our company ing the show we sold another five be thankful for this year, and for and the latest on the motor home American Revolutions. The custom- everyone here at American Coach, industry. You couldn’t ask for a bet- ers were very appreciative of the fact we are thankful for customers like ter rally. Revolution was added to the Ameri- you. Without your support of our can Coach family. This week we product, we would not have the During the rally, we had two prod- are headed to Myrtle Beach, S.C., great jobs we have. We hope to see uct feedback sessions, one with just where the Country Coach club has you in Decatur or at a rally soon. the women and the other with just a rally of 150 coaches for the week. the men. Both seminars proved We are there to share the American On behalf of 1,200 hard working very fruitful for us as we were able Coach story and we even brought families in Decatur, Ind., we ap- to understand the needs and desires Randy and the crew to show them preciate your business and hope you of both groups. These feedback ses- what we have to offer. With the have safe travels. sions help us as we plan new model closure of Country Coach, we want years and floor plans. We really ap- to make sure these owners know Justin preciate the time everyone took out we would love to welcome them of their schedule to join us. to the American Coach family. We are looking forward to introducing Justin RV World of Yuma, Ariz. attended ourselves to this wonderful group Humphreys the rally and sold five coaches dur- of owners. ing the weeklong event. What was most interesting was that the major- For those of you who have not ity of the coaches sold went to folks heard, we made the decision to who traded in competitive brands. include Revolution in the American They all heard how much fun the Coach family for 2011. For the past group was having and just had to year, Revolution was being sold by
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32 ACA ACROSS AMERICA Rally Schedule: AMERICAN COACH ASSOCIATION RALLY SCHEDULE Date Location Chapter Nov. 11 - 13, 2010 Rancho, Cal. Southern Cal. Chapter Dec. 2 - 6, 2010 Sarasota, Fla. Southeast Chapter Jan. 13 - 16, 2011 Seffner, Fla. Southeast Chapter Jan. 16 - 19, 2011 Seffner, Fla. HappyWhere Wanderers to next? Chapter Jan. 17 - 19, 2011 Seffner, Fla. Mac Pack Chapter Jan. 20 - 23, 2011 Quartzsite, Ariz. Southwest Chapter Feb. 10 - 13, 2011 Palm Desert, Cal. Southern Cal Chapter Feb. 21 - 25, 2011 Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Great Lakes Chapter May 13 - 15, 2011 Horn Lake, Miss. Great Lakes Chapter May 16 - 21, 2011 Memphis, Tenn. ACA National Rally, Mac Pack Chapter Sept. 12 - 16, 2011 Lake Leelanau, Mich. Great Lakes Chapter Chapter Rally Sites:
SOUTHEAST CHAPTER MACPACK CHAPTER Fall Rally at Quail Run RV Park, Wesley Chapel, Fla. Winter Rally at Lazy Days rally Park, Seffner, Florida Nov. 4 – 6, 2010 January 17 – 20, 2011 We don’t know what we are going to do, but we are going to have As always, Mac Pack will be holding their annual Winter Rally at fun . Maybe if everyone brings a bottle or two of wine from there Lazy Days Rally Park . This rally is well attended but, this year we summer travels, we could have a wine tasting rally? I know I can hope to set a record as we continue to make plans for the ACA come up with two or three bottles . This could turn into an annual National Rally that our chapter will be hosting . This will be our event for the fall rally . This is a very beautiful park and after travel- final gathering before the national rally, so please plan to at- ing all summer we need a nice place to get together and discuss tendMark . There will be planning Your sessions, Calendargreat food, entertainment, all of our travels . Anyone that would like to host this rally, please socials, and of course, the wonderful strawberries from Plant contact Wendy or Jim Graham . City . More information will be in upcoming issues but, mark your calendars now! SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA CHAPTER Outdoor Resorts, Rancho California SOUTHEAST CHAPTER November 11 - 13, 2010 Lazy days Rally Park Honoring our Veterans will be the theme of SoCal’s November January 13 - 16, 2011 Rally . We will stay in the beautiful facility at Outdoor Resorts This is the Southeast Chapter’s annual meeting when all officers in Aguanga, Cal . The Board is hosting the rally and we will be are elected . All offices are up for election, so if you have that providing the main dish for Friday’s Quasi-Potluck . Saturday “burning desire” to lead your chapter to greatness, or maybe we’re testing fate with a BINGO tournament, followed by a lively just want to get involved, put your name in hat and make things chili cook-off . We will round out the evening by having our Vets happen . The chapter needs new people and new ideas, so please share a story about their service . Cost is $175 .00 for two . Ques- consider getting involved and be more than just a check book tions? Contact Sue Rose at 626-332-6070 member . Please try to make it to this rally as it is the best at- tended rally in the year . Dan & Renee Lee are the rally hosts for SOUTHEAST CHAPTER this event and, as always, we will have a great time . This time Christmas Rally at Sun ‘n Fun in Sarasota, Fla. frame coincides with the Tampa RV Show at the fairgrounds, Dec 2 – 5, 2010 which is one of the largest RV shows in the country . The registra- The Christmas Rally will include coach decorations, Dirty Santa, tion form is on the web site at http://southeastaca .net/Rally%20 and a whole raft of activities . This is one of our best attended Schedule/RallySchedule .htm . Download and send to Dan as soon rallies so get your reservations in early . Ron & Steffi Molway will as possible as we are restricted to a limited number of sites, and be the rally hosts and they have a lot of activities for everyone to we probably won’t be able to get any more than we have been enjoy . The chapter is funding some of these activities so sign up allotted . now as we only have 30 spaces guaranteed . NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2010 33 Chapter Rally Sites:
MACPACK CHAPTER SOUTHWEST CHAPTER Winter Rally at Lazy Days Rally Park, Seffner, Florida If It’s January, It Must Be Quartzsite (Arizona) January 17 – 20, 2011 January 20 – 23, 2011 As always, Mac Pack will be holding their annual winter Rally at The dates for our “If it’s January, it must be Quartzsite Rally” co- Lazy Days Rally Park . This rally is well attended but, this year we incide with the annual Quartzsite RV Show . We’ll be staying very hope to set a record as we continue to make plans for the ACA close to the RV show grounds . Don’t forget to bring your family National Rally that our chapter will be hosting . This will be our recipe for chili . We’ll all be enjoying an evening of “Chili Cook-in” final gathering before the national rally, so please Markplan to at- Yourand sampling Calendarall of the different Southwest chili . We’ll also be tend . There will be planning sessions, great food, entertainment, taking orders for our famous steak barbeque . For questions or socials, and of course, the wonderful strawberries from Plant more information, contact Suzy Zuege at 520-906-9462, or email City . More information will be in upcoming issues but, mark your her at szuege@gmail .com . calendars now!
GREAT LAKES CHAPTER HAPPY WANDERERS CHAPTER Winter Rally at Fort Wilderness Campground, Rally Park – Lazy Days, Seffner, Florida Lake Buena Vista, Fla. January 16 -19, 2011 February 21 – 25, 2011 Lazydays Rally Park is the site of our annual Happy Wanderers GLC is doing Disney again! We have reserved 25 sites, which January get-together . The rally fee will be $105 .82 for the three always fill up fast . The reservation due date will be earlier than days . You will be responsible for making your own reservations normal in order to meet Disney requirements . If you want to arrive with Lazydays and make sure you tell them you are with the early or stay later, plan to handle your own arrangements with Happy Wanderers Chapter; the phone number is 800-905-6627 or Disney . As they say at Disney – “This will be a magical moment 813-246-4777 . We will be gathering on January 16th and depart- you don’t want to miss .” Contact Bob Kolarik at 262 .818 .2495, or ing on January 19th after a fun filled three day rally . Check in time RBTKolarik@yahoo .com with questions . is 1:00 pm and check out time is before 11:00 am on Wednesday the 19th . Sunday will feature a welcome party of cocktails at the coaches and a cookout to follow (meat supplied by HWC) if weather permits . If not, pizza will be on the menu inside our reserved room . In any case, a HWC meeting will follow . If you have any questions, please contact Bill Evans at 440-463-1847 (billntonievans@gmail .com) or Bill Makowski at 989-390-9444 (wbmak@aol .com) . RV Insurance Specialist
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36 ACA ACROSS AMERICA Membership Services:
We are in Las Vegas at the ACA Rally and we are having a great time. If you missed this one, we have an- other one coming up in May 2011. It will be in Memphis so mark your calendars now. The information is on the website so check it out!
I want to remind everyone that your dues must be current to attend the national and chapter rallies. Your expiration date is always on the back of your magazine by your name and address. National ACA dues are $45.00 annually. We’re Here To Help
I wish you all a happy holiday season and safe travels; see you next year!
Janice Thompson ACA Membership Services
• credit card services • • free Web site advertising • • change Phone or address • You can join or pay your annual Members can place a classified Change and/or view your personal dues with a Master Card or Visa on “coach for sale” advertisement membership information on the the ACA Web site* . We’ve taken on the ACA Web site . ACA Web site* precautions to ensure it’s safe and Best of all, it’s FREE! no one will have access to your All ACA mailings, including the credit card information . • membership Badges • ACA Across America Magazine, are New members receive their mailed to the address listed in the • membership roster/By-laws • Membership Badge(s) - they are ACA Roster data base . Membership Roster & By-Laws can FREE - with their New Member be viewed and downloaded from Welcome Letter . Existing members If you don’t have a computer (or the ACA Web site* . Please note we who wish replacement badges hate to use one) just call or mail no longer mail out either unless must order them directly from us and we’ll make any necessary one is requested by mail or e-mail . McBee’s - see below . changes or corrections for you .
* Type in www.myamericancoach.com - on the home page, click on Membership Services and follow prompts.
Need Swingers, Badges or Ovals? It’s easy: Mail your order along with an enclosed check (US $), including your correct ACA Membership Number, to the following: McBee’s • 909-336-2325 • PO Box 660, Lake Arrowhead, CA 92352 • Swingers @ $2 .00 each • Badges @ 5 .50 each • Ovals @ $16 .00 each - Prices include shipping and sales tax . Questions? send e-mail to mcbeesengraving@hotmail .com
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2010 37 Directory & Dues: • Northeast • South Central Chapter: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, New York, Massachusetts, Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma & Texas Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, David Parsons, Membership Chair Delaware & Maryland 120 Julie Lane James Anderson, Membership Chair Stonewall, LA 71078 318-925-4606 • 318-349-5514 P.O. Box 129 [email protected] Corinth, NY 12822 $6.00 Initiation Fee 518-796-0477 $12.00 Annual Dues less $1.00 prorated per month after January [email protected] Contact Your Chapter $8.00 Initiation Fee • Southwest $12.00 Annual Dues-less $1.00 prorated per month after July Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Southern Nevada and Utah Steve Hight, Membership Chair • Mac Pack 1698 Nez Pierce Loop, NE Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina, Rio Rancho, NM 87144 South Carolina & Tennessee 505-343-0782 • Cell: 505-715-2688 Marlene Shamel, Membership Chair [email protected] 279 Stonegate Lane $8.00 Initiation Fee Mocksville, NC 27028 $12.00 Annual Dues less $1.00 prorated per month after July 336-998-2277 [email protected] • Southern California Southern California $8.00 Initiation Fee $12.00 Annual Dues, due July 1 Susan Rose, Membership Chair/Treasurer 300 S. Houser Drive Covina, CA 91722 • Southeast 626-332-6070 Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia & Florida [email protected] $5.00 Initiation Fee • $15.00 Annual Dues, due June Monty Campbell, Membership Chair 8701 Belle Meade Drive • Northern California Fort Myers, FL 33908 Northern California and Northern Nevada 239-454-7007 [email protected] Terry Bennett, Membership Chair 1970 N. Leslie St., PMB 334 $8.00 Initiation Fee Pahrump, NV 89060 $12.00 Annual Dues 916-718-4068 [email protected] • Great Lakes $5.00 Initiation Fee Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, $12.00 Annual Dues less $1.00 prorated per month after July Michigan & Southern Ontario, Canada $33.00 Optional personalized window placard Mary Jo Benhart, Membership Chair 1014 Independence Blvd. • Northwest Yorkville, IL 60560 Oregon, Washington, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Alaska, 630-553-0102 Cell: 708-903-6572 British Columbia, Alberta & Saskatchewan [email protected] Leslie Pettinger, Membership Chair 1919 Maiden Lane $10.00 Annual Dues, due by July 1 Oakdale, CA 95361 $5.00 after January 1 209-847-7133 / Cell: 209-765-6547 [email protected] • Missouri Valley $8.00 Initiation Fee North Dakota, South Dakota, Kansas, $12.00 Annual Dues less $1.00 prorated after July Nebraska, Iowa & Missouri Linda Smith, Membership Chair • Happy Wanderers 1419 Anglers Road All 50 States Plus Canada Beaufort, MO 63013 Nancy Crossan, Membership Chair 573-484-3157 Cell: 314-825-8906 PMB 365439, 3590 Round Bottom Rd. [email protected] Cincinnati, OH 45244 $15.00 Annual Dues due by July 1 410-490-3574 [email protected] Beginning July 1, 2010, the membership $5.00 Initiation Fee dues for MO Valley Chapter will be $15 $15.00 Annual Dues Annual dues renewal date: January 1
38 ACA ACROSS AMERICA Membership Form: New Membership Application & Dues Renewal Form Please complete this form and mail (with check in US dollars) to the ACA Membership Services address listed below When enclosing a check with this form, please fill in the following information: Select one: q Current ACA member # ______q Reactivating membership/previous ACA # ______q Applying for new membership q New or reactivated membership - $55 first year only ($45 annual dues plus $10 initiation fee) q Annual renewal dues - $45 yearly renewal of which $6 is allocated towards your yearly subscription of the ACA Across America magazine, published bi-monthly q Number or years renewal (select one): q One q Two Send It In Today q Total of your enclosed check $ ______(US dollars please) Check number ______Date mailed ______Please type or print clearly. NOTE: If you are a New Member, the National Directory & your ACA badge will be exactly as listed.
______Owner’s name: first (if you prefer a nickname, use that) last
______Co-Owner’s name: first (if you prefer a nickname, use that) last
______Mailing info: address & street name city state zip U.S. or Canada
(______)______-______(______)______-______Phone: home cell E-mail address I/we own: q Heritage/year _____ q Eagle/year _____ q Dream/year _____ q Tradition/year _____ q Limited/year _____ q Allegiance/year _____ I/we belong to the following local chapter(s): q Great Lakes q Happy Wanderers q MacPack q Missouri Valley q Northern California q Northeast q Northwest q Southern California q South Central q Southeast q Southwest
• • • American Coach Association • • • 3590 Round Bottom Road, Cincinnati, OH 45244-3026 If you need to correspond with the Membership Services office directly, you can reach them at 501-858-9564
cut & mail separately USE For Local Chapter Membership Application ONLY * I understand that I may join as many local chapters as I please but that I must be a member in good standing in the National American Coach Association in order to join a local chapter - my membership number is: #______
______Owner’s name: first (if you prefer a nickname, use that) last
______Co-Owner’s name: first (if you prefer a nickname, use that) last
______Mailing info: address & street name city state zip U.S. or Canada
(______)______-______(______)______-______Phone: home cell E-mail address See Directory & Dues page for a listing of chapters, states they cover, dues & initiation fees and key contacts. Indicate the chapter(s) that you wish to join by checking the appropriate box(es) q Great Lakes q Happy Wanderers q MacPack q Missouri Valley q Northern California q Northeast q Northwest q Southern California q South Central q Southeast q Southwest Total of the enclosed check (see chapter requirements): $_____ Check number _____ Date mailed _____ * Send this completed form, along with a check in the correct amount for initiation fees and first year’s dues (US dollar please) and mail it to the appropriate chapter contact as listed on Directory & Dues page of this Magazine.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2010 39 Shop Online - Visit Our Showroom Shipping - Professional Installation
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40 ACA ACROSS AMERICA Don’t just Call dream about it....
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F ORTHEDISCERNING A MERICANCOACHOWNER www.summit-products.com or shop by your specific coach model only at www.rvstainless.com 800-329-2958 ACA Across America The Official Magazine of American Coach Association Membership Services 1812 Latelia Ct. New Port Richey, FL 34655
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