Volume I Issue No. 2 December 2004 2

Signs would keep motor keep would Signs RV Be All Let’s homes ou homes Friendly t of tight places tight of t The Allegro Club Newsletter Newsletter Club Allegro The 3

Club events in Macon, in events Club Rally Branson and Mackinaw and Branson Country The TIFFIN ’ round FEATURES OF THIS ISSUE THIS OF FEATURES

MOTORHOMES F 4 or Leisure & Living & Leisure or

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P.O.BOX 1429 PRESORTED STANDARD RED BAY, AL 35582 U.S. POSTAGE PAID ADDRESS SERVICE PERMIT # 159 REQUESTED BIRMINGHAM, AL Generating Interest We received many responses to our quiz in the September issue asking members to guess the model and year of the 1987 Allegro we pictured. Answers ranged from 1982 to 1988. The winner, drawn from among the five correct responses, is Jerry Hanson of Midland, Mich. and will receive a packet of Allegro Club goodies.

Our new quiz question: How often should the generator oil and filter in a Tiffin-built motor home be changed?  Weekly  Monthly  Annually  Every two years Mail or email your answer along with your name, address and phone number to Allegro Club, Box 1429, Red Bay, AL 35582. Please, only one entry per household. The Allegro Club is not responsible for lost entries. The winner will be selected by a drawing of correct entries received by Feb. 7, 2005.

Western Rally! Almost 600 landscaped sites with concrete pads; state-of-the-art hook- ups for water, sewer, electric (50-amp) telephone and cable TV; near the Temecula wine country; clubhouse seating for 500; amenities including golf, tennis, fishing, trails. Those are just a few reasons to register for the Tiffin Motorhomes Western Rally at Rancho California RV Resort in Aguanga, Cal., May 16-18, 2005. The rally can accommodate 150 Tiffin-built motor homes. Registration for two adults is $179 per coach. That fee also includes three dinners, two breakfasts, entertainment and seminars. Dan Blanke, TO I-10 Tiffin Motorhomes sales representative for Arizona, California, Nevada and Utah, is organizing the event, and he expects it to sell out quickly. “We will take the first 150 postmarked, complete registrations,” Blanke said. “Last year, we had to turn people away, and we sure didn’t MURRIETA like to do that.” Rally information is being sent to owners of registered Tiffin-built motor homes in western states. TO LOS ANGELES Blanke is hoping to offer the Dick Reed Driving School from Applegate, Cal., and Janet Sadlack, a microwave-convection cooking AGUANGA expert from Burnsville, Minn., but he emphasizes that those attractions TEMECULA RANCHO are not confirmed as of Nov. 22. CALIFORNIA Rancho California RV Resort is one of 12 Outdoor Resorts of RV RESORTS America, Inc. For more information, go to:

TO SAN www.outdoor-resorts.com/rancmap.htm or call (800) 541-2582. DIEGO SIDE ROADS Is published quarterly March, June, September and December by the Allegro® Club Inc.

Presorted Standard U.S. Postage Paid Permit # 159, Birmingham, AL

From the POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Allegro® Club, Inc. P.O. Box 1429, Red Bay, Al 35582

Jimmy Johnson driver’s seat NOTICE OF RESPONSIBILITY: The Allegro® Club, Inc., Red Bay, AL, has designed tours, caravans, It was after midnight as I traveled alone on I-81 north through and rallies for your pleasure and enjoyment and has attempted to select for you the best campgrounds, accommodations, restaurants, the Shenandoah Valley of Western Virginia. I noticed that my fuel level was nearing the and transportation facilities for the prices charged. Allegro® Club, one-quarter mark. I began to look for an open fuel stop that could accommodate a 35- Inc., Jimmy and Gail Johnson, and the Board of Directors do not own or operate any of the campgrounds, hotels, restaurants or transportation foot gas-burner with a tow-vehicle behind. facilities and, furthermore, assume no responsibility for delays, losses, accidents, or for damage to persons or property caused by any person, The green highway sign indicated that gasoline and diesel were available at the firm, corporation, or other legal entity providing the following services: upcoming exit. To the left atop a hill was a truck stop. I entered the long, upward slop- campgrounds, hotels, restaurants, transportation (including but not limited to transfers and sightseeing) or any other services incident to ing driveway. these tours, rallies, caravans or any activities of the Allegro® Club, Inc. The right is reserved to substitute campgrounds, hotels, restaurants A sign directed me to the right of the concrete divider for gasoline; diesel was to the and alter the itinerary or reverse the places to be visited. The right is reserved to cancel the tour or caravan prior to departure. In the event left. Only then could I see the layout of the fuel islands, the building and the concrete of a tour or caravan cancellation, the Allegro® Club, Inc., Jimmy and barrier. This place was for cars and pickup trucks – not RVs. Gail Johnson, and the Board of Directors’ liability is limited to a refund of money received. Since the canopy over the pumps was high enough for the motor home, I pulled up The Allegro® Club, Inc., Jimmy and Gail Johnson, and the Board of Directors reserve the right to make any changes, with or without notice, and filled the tank. I had no possible way to exit except by backing. I unhooked the that might become necessary with the understanding that there is no tow-car and moved it out of the way into the adjacent parking lot. After several maneu- extra charge. After a tour, caravan or rally begins, any unused portions of fees paid are not refundable. The Allegro® Club, Inc., also reserves vers backward and forward I had the motor home facing out. I retrieved the tow-car, the right to terminate tour, caravan and rally services for any client at any time for good cause. hooked it up and resumed my journey. The mission of the Allegro Club is: How many times have you had a similar experience? With your help, we should 1) To promote friendship, fellowship and camaraderie among all owners of Tiffin-built motor homes; be able to fix this problem. When a facility is not convenient and accessible for motor 2) To provide pertinent information and assistance regarding Tiffin-built products, their maintenance and related safety topics; homes, we should know that before we get stuck there. 3) To promote brand loyalty to Tiffin-built motor homes among In Oregon and Louisiana, highway information signs are sprouting “RV Friendly” current owners; and 4) To encourage ownership of Tiffin-built motor homes among icons (the letters RV in a circle). The signs lead to easily accessible businesses. Oregon non-owners. The Allegro Club reserves the right to edit submissions for space and launched a test of the RV Friendly signs in 2003. After a survey found 87 percent of clarity. Manuscripts, photographs, illustrations and other proposed content are welcomed and will be considered for publication. Reproduction in respondents labeling the signs a great idea, the Federal Highway Administration (FHA) whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Content, including allowed the Travel Information Council (TIC) an additional two-year test period. If statements of fact and opinion, do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints of Tiffin Motorhomes, Inc. or the Allegro Club, Inc. Tiffin Motorhomes, Inc. results continue to be positive, the FHA could grant permanent status for the signs. and the Allegro Club, Inc. are not responsible for content. The TIC is quite specific in its RV Friendly requirements. A facility must have hard ON THE COVER surface access, be free of potholes, and have lanes preferably no narrower than 12 feet With a few strings of lights, a warm, inviting campfire and with a swing radius of at least 50 feet. Short-term parking must include at least two good friends, the Allegro Club leadership turns a Tiffin- built motor home into a holiday greeting card scene. spaces 12 feet by 65 feet with a 50-foot swing radius at both ends. Fuel stations must have a minimum 14-foot clearance under canopies. Stations selling diesel fuel must LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Want to share an experience you had in your Tiffin have non-commercial nozzles on pumps. Motorhome? Have a comment or suggestion about Side This year, the Louisiana legislature was the first in the nation to authorize the RV Roads, the Allegro Club newsletter? Write to: Side Roads Editor Friendly icons on state highway signs. The Louisiana icon adds a smile under the letters. Allegro Club With an estimated 30 million RVers, including those driving 38,000 Tiffin-built P.O. Box 1429 Red Bay, AL 35582 motor homes, the commercial benefits of the RV Friendly signs are staggering. RVers Please include your name, address, email and phone average 28-35 days on the road each year, according to the Recreational Vehicle number so we can contact you. Industry Association. That’s a lot of campground fees, fuel, food, entertainment, souvenirs and clothing. CONTACTS: Tiffin Motorhomes Parts & Service If you live in the other 48 states, take a cue from Oregon and Louisiana. Get some- (256) 356-8661 thing going in your state. In Louisiana, according to the RVIA, the bill authorizing RV Friendly icons was Allegro Club sparked by RVers meeting with one legislator. State Rep. M.J. “Mert” Smiley made the (256) 356-8522 connection between constituents with a problem and businesses that would benefit (Continued on Page 15) www.tiffinmotorhomes.com 2 SIDE ROADS Macon, Branson and Mackinaw rallies on tap Survey says: Displays of new Tiffin-built motor registration fee for two people in one Tiffin- Rally length and locations homes, entertainment, a horse and buggy built motor home, $295 for each additional suit members just fine ride to a “legendary” buffet, a river show- person and $475 for one person in a Tiffin- Allegro Club members want to wander boat ride, and the ever-popular Tiffin tech- built motor home. The registration includes far and wide, according to a survey at the nicians are just a few of the attractions for five nights of camping fee with full hookups Amana Colonies, Iowa, rally last August. upcoming Allegro Club rallies in Macon, (first 48 are 50 amps; the rest are 30 amps), The written survey, completed by Ga.; Branson, Mo.; and Mackinaw, Mich. two breakfasts, one lunch and five evening owners of the 61 Tiffin-built motor The Macon event March 17-19, 2005 at meals, vendor/partner seminars, chartered homes at the rally, identified 29 states Sandy Beach Park is a lead-in to the 73rd transportation to and from four entertain- as recommended sites for future rallies. FMCA International Rally in Perry, Ga., ment events: 50s at the Hop, Oak Ridge While a number of states were not men- March 21-24. The Allegro Club’s Spring Boys, the Showboat Branson Belle dinner tioned specifically, regional suggestions Rally will be April 25-29, 2005 in Branson, and show, and the Pierce-Arrow Show, – New England, Western states, Mid- Mo., at Compton Ridge Campground. Tiffin factory technicians making compli- west, Southwest and East Coast – filled The Allegro Club’s Summer Lake Escape mentary minor repairs and a display of 2005 in almost all the rest of the map. is at Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping in Tiffin-built motor homes. The survey gives a clear profile of rally Mackinaw, Mich., Aug. 22-26, 2005. The Branson rally, limited to 100 participant interests. The results are be- The registration deadline is Feb. 17, coaches, will be catered by Compton Ridge ing used to plan future rallies. 2005 for the Macon and Branson rallies. Campground. Johnson says the campground Allegro Club President Jimmy Johnson The March 17-19 pre-rally in Macon “has a very good reputation for its food.” says selecting rally locations starts with has a $195 registration fee for two people The registration fee for a Tiffin-built motor recommendations from club members, in one Tiffin-built motor home; $75 for home with two people is $545 and the regis- but the process can then become a bit each additional person. That price includes tration deadline is July 12, 2005 for the Aug. complicated. three nights of camping (no hookups), three 22-26, 2005 Mackinaw, Mich. Summer Lake “Club members on the East Coast breakfasts, two lunches and three evening Escape. Johnson says the rally will feature probably won’t drive to the West Coast, meals, entertainment, Tiffin factory techni- great attractions. and the reverse is true,” Johnson says. cians making complimentary minor repairs Rally-goers will take a horse-drawn car- “Our Branson (Mo.) rally will push us and a display of 2005 Tiffin-built motor riage ride to Macinac Island’s Grand Hotel, toward the west, Mackinaw (Mich.) homes. named one of the 100 best hotels in the world, takes us north, then we will be going “We hope to provide some great local where rooms go from $350-650 a night and to Colorado Springs, Central Florida, entertainment,” Allegro Club President the world’s longest front porch awaits. Allegro Myrtle Beach, New England and the Jimmy Johnson says. “We are talking now Club members will not spend the night – they Smoky Mountains. with groups about musical and drama pre- can do that in style in their Tiffin-built motor “We will continue to expand our sentations.” homes – but they will enjoy the Grand Hotel’s reach,” he adds. “Tiffin regional sales The Macon rally is limited to 120 coach- legendary Grand Luncheon Buffet. managers (Dan Blanke and Tom Kirk) es. Johnson hopes for a full campground. Cars are banned on Mackinac Island, so are doing a great job with regional rallies The FMCA International Rally drew the alternative to the carriage ride would in the Southwest and Northwest, so we 5,854 coaches to Perry in 2002 for the annu- have been foot or bicycle. “Somewhere in may not offer national rallies on the West al gathering that includes motor home dis- Time,” a 1980 cult classic starring Jane Coast in the very near future.” plays, maintenance and repair instructional Seymour and the late Christopher Reeve, Eighty-two percent of the Amana presentations and entertainment. The 2005 was filmed on Mackinac. survey respondents said five or six nights entertainment will be Mac Frampton, Pam The rally also will feature entertainment, is the optimal duration for a rally. The Tillis and the Oak Ridge Boys. For more vendor seminars, Tiffin factory technicians April 25-29 Branson rally and the Aug. information: www.fmca.com, (800) 543-3622. making complimentary minor repairs and a (Continued on Page 6) The April 25-29 Branson rally has a $695 display of 2005 Tiffin-built motor homes. 

SIDE ROADS 3 Take advantage of versatile appliance in holiday cooking

Whether you are RV’ing during the holidays or just need rule of thumb to remember for standard recipes cooked in con- another oven to help you cook your holiday feast, take vection ovens is “less temperature and less time.” While famil- advantage of the versatile appliance you have in your Sharp iarizing yourself with the convection feature, you will usually Convection Microwave oven. The combination microwave/ set your temperature 25 degrees lower than the standard recipe convection oven is two appliances in one, and with a little calls for and check at approximately half of the cooking time. time and patience, it is quite easy to master. Often, cooking time will need to be added after first check- The microwave feature in your oven is similar to most ing, but with some practice, you will soon learn what time and microwave-only ovens; simply enter the desired cook time and temperature modifications work best when converting standard press start. You may want to refer to your owners’ manual for oven recipes for convection baking. Again, your owners’ man- other instructions regarding microwave only. ual is valuable in helping to learn about convection microwave The convection feature of your oven operates similar to a cooking. standard oven, except that foods will cook more quickly at a The first three recipes are presented first as standard oven lower temperature. The Sharp Convection Microwave oven is recipes. The convection modification is noted at the end designed so that fans move heated air around the food. A good of each recipe.  Come on over to the Johnsons for chicken and dumplings For most of the eight years her sons road,” says the secretary-treasurer of the “We make a good team,” Gail says. Andrew and David played high school Allegro Club, wife of President Jimmy “Pam is always bustling around, never football, Gail Johnson invited the team, Johnson. standing still. I’m more methodical.” the coaches, and pretty Traveling through New Jersey this From the surveys completed by rally much anybody else over summer, Jimmy spotted a newspaper ad participants, you’d never know the prep- to the house for her for an appliance center with attractive aration time had been so short. famous chicken and prices. The next thing he knew, he was Gail’s favorite menu comes straight dumplings. renting a trailer to tow Gail’s purchases from her North Alabama upbringing: After you’ve regularly back to Alabama for their new house, fried chicken, a green bean casserole, fed 75-plus people, each currently under construction. fried okra and sliced fresh tomatoes. of whom weighs about Gail Johnson Gail doesn’t need that trailer load of She doesn’t mention dessert. as much as a VW, it can fancy appliances to whip up something Who would have room?  safely be said you enjoy cooking. worth eating, however. For Gail Johnson, that tradition start- “I was a little intimidated at first by ed with grandmothers. On her father’s the convection microwave oven in our Correction side, her grandmother prepared a large Tiffin-built motor home,” she admits. The casserole and topping ingredients were country dinner – like fried chicken, “After I took the time to give it a chance, mixed in the September issue of Side Roads green beans, okra, country fried corn - I became a believer.” due to a layout error. The topping for Mimi’s Squash Casserole has three ingredients: 1⁄2 - every day at lunchtime. Her maternal When a professional cooking team cup mayonnaise, 1⁄4 stick melted oleo or grandmother was a “very proficient city- had to cancel its presentation for the butter, and 1⁄2 cup grated cheddar cheese. side” cook, and Gail’s mother knows her Amana, Iowa, rally in August, just a few The casserole ingredients are 1 lb. summer way around the kitchen as well. days before the coaches rolled into the (yellow) squash (should equal 2 cups drained “My greatest pleasure in cooking is campground, Jimmy recruited Gail and and mashed after cooking), 1 teaspoon sugar, preparing food for my family and their her sister-in-law, Pam Jones. Pam’s hus- 1-2 cups Cheesit crackers, 1⁄4 cup chopped friends, and now I have enjoyed getting band, Verbon Jones, is office manager of onion crushed, 1⁄4 cup chopped bell pepper to know all these nice people on the the Allegro Club. (optional), 1 egg, slightly beaten and salt and pepper to taste. 4 SIDE ROADS Roadside recipes

Jewel’s Grated Sweet Potato Casserole Ingredients: 11⁄2 cups raw, peeled grated 1 cup sugar 1 teaspoon each: vanilla extract, sweet potatoes 2 eggs nutmeg, cinnamon 1 cup milk 1⁄2 stick butter or oleo, melted 1⁄4 teaspoon baking powder (Nuts or coconut optional) Instructions: Beat eggs; add sugar and beat well. Add milk, butter, flavor- 11⁄2 hours, or until set. ings, baking powder, sweet potatoes, and nuts. Mix well. Bake *Convection modification: Bake in square casserole dish for 50 in preheated 350-degree oven in greased casserole dish for minutes at 350 degrees.

Judy Tiffin’s Pecan Pie Ingredients: 1⁄2 cup melted oleo 4 eggs, beaten 1 cup chopped pecans 1 cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 9-inch pastry shell 1 cup light corn syrup 1⁄4 teaspoon salt

Instructions: Combine oleo, sugar, and corn syrup. Add salt, vanilla, eggs, and * Convection modification: Bake in pre-heated 325-degree pecans. Mix well. Pour into unbaked pastry shell and bake in convection oven for approximately 36 - 38 minutes, or until set. preheated 325-degree oven for 50-55 minutes, or until set.

Sausage Balls Ingredients: 10 oz. grated cheddar cheese (sharp) 1 lb. sausage 3 cups Bisquick baking mix Instructions: Mix all ingredients well together, working with hands. * Convection modification: Preheat convection oven to 325; Shape into walnut-sized balls and bake in a slow oven for bake on two racks for approximately 10 - 12 minutes. (Small about 20 minutes (325 degrees). round pizza pans work well) Check for doneness; continue cooking if needed, 2 minutes at a time, until done.

Roasted Turkey Breast Ingredients: 4-5 pound uncooked turkey breast Oleo Salt and pepper, to taste Instructions: Prepare turkey for cooking; place on low rack with microwave CompuRoast # 3, following directions on the touch pad. When safe dish underneath to catch drippings. Drizzle with melted cooking time is ended, use meat thermometer to check internal oleo, salt and pepper. Place in convection oven and use temperature. Removal temperature should be 160 degrees. (More recipes on Page 15)

SIDE ROADS 5 Survey says: Rally length and locations suit members just fine (Continued from Page 3) 22-26 rally at Mackinaw fit that mold. The same percentage of Amana rally participants said the seven meals provid- ed for that rally seemed appropriate. More than 60 vendors were recom- mended at Amana for rallies, and John- son says most will receive invitations. “We invite all the original equipment manufacturers we can, but not after- market,” Johnson says. “If 30 accept, The boys in Red Bay say it has a three-tree limit we’ll find a way to accommodate them. We usually have about 10.” Deck the motor home with mistletoe, Allegro Club members like to laugh and listen to a variety of music, the candy canes and holiday spirit survey shows. Comedy appeared on 11 If your home for the holidays is a Tif- • A wreath with a big bow tied on the percent of questionnaires in response to fin, consider adding a seasonal touch. front of your Tiffin-built motor home a question asking for suggested activities Use all your senses to make your motor will look great, but it could cause some and entertainment at future rallies. home festive, suggests Gail Johnson, a damage to your coach’s finish or flip up Musical tastes range from jazz to coun- veteran RVer. She is secretary-treasurer to obscure your windshield if you use it try, bluegrass, ’50s, ’60s and polka. of the Allegro Club and her husband as a moving decoration. Participants in the Amana rally were Jimmy is president. She suggests put- • Before getting carried away with lights almost evenly split on having driving ting a tray of steaming hot chocolate and other electrical displays, check your schools at rallies. Johnson says he will with peppermint stick stirrers in front of unit’s power capacity. An overloaded consider making the driving schools guests, baking gingerbread, and hanging system can cause fires, shorts or other available as options, but would not mistletoe and candy canes. expensive repairs. include the schools in the registration fee “A home that looks and smells like the • Tabletop artificial trees can add holi- all participants pay. holidays feels like the holidays,” Gail day cheer without taking up too much The registration fee for the Amana rally Johnson says, offering these ideas. surface space. For a brighter look, a was $452.69 for two people in one Tif- • Pick decorations from the grounds and three-foot tree is large enough to stand fin-built motor home, and 84 percent of woods nearby. Evergreen boughs, pine guard over gifts without rendering the participants said the fee was appropriate. cones and holly berries arranged in a living room impassable. Rallies are expensive ventures for the basket make a great centerpiece. • Adhesive-back hooks were made for Allegro Club, explains Johnson. The • Use limited wall space by hanging motorhome decorating. You can string costs significantly outweigh the fees. small ornaments, combined in larger lights without damaging interior walls. “Entertainment, food and bus trans- areas in themed groups. • Snow in a can dresses up windows, portation to special events are our largest • Plastic and tinsel are probably bet- then wipes clean after the holidays. costs, but those areas also represent the ter options than fragile heirlooms, and Maybe there’s no place like motor priorities we have heard from Allegro remember to pack away your decorations home for the holidays.  Club members for successful rallies,” before you hit the road. Johnson says.  6 SIDE ROADS ------

Allegro Club FMCA Spring Pre-Rally ------March 17 – March 19, 2005 Sandy Beach Park Macon, GA

Cost Includes: 3 Nights camping (no hook-ups); 3 breakfasts; 3 evening meals; 2 lunches; 2 evenings’ entertainment; factory technicians; dealer’s display of the latest Tiffin-built motor homes for your viewing. Plenty of food, fun and fellowship. All sites will be assigned in the order your registration and rally fee are received.

Cost: Motor home with one or two people / $195.00 • Each additional guest / $75.00

Number of people Amount enclosed $ (Full payment required) Allegro Club #: Telephone number: Chapter #: Name: Spouse Name: Mailing Address: City/State/Zip: Name of guest in member’s motor home: We wish to park with our chapter (listed above) or individual: We will be in:  Allegro  Allegro Bay  Phaeton  Allegro Bus  Zephyr Motor home length: License plate #: State: Tow vehicle: Make: License plate #: State: My chassis is:  Ford  Workhorse  Chevrolet  Oshkosh  Spartan  Freightliner  John Deere  Other: CUT HERE YES  / NO  This is our first Allegro Club rally. YES  / NO  We need to be placed in the handicapped section. (Enclose Handicapped Certification with your Registration).

------YES  / NO  We will bring our pet(s). (Participants wishing to park together must send registrations and rally fee in together. Get your reservations in early because of limited spaces of 120 sites. No reservations will be taken after the deadline of February 17, 2005. Deadline for refund is no later than February 4, 2005.)

Send check, money order or complete credit card information below:  Visa  Master Card  Discover ------Credit Card Number: Expiration Date ______/ ______/ ______/ ______/ ______1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 Month Year

Signature:

Call 1-256-356-8522 for registration by phone. You may also fax your reservation form to 1-256-356-9746. Be sure to have credit card and pre-registration in hand when you phone during office hours Monday through Friday. Voice mail messages are returned if you call after hours. Make check payable and mail to: Allegro Club, P.O. Box 1429, Red Bay, AL 35582-1429

By registering for this event you acknowledge and agree to the following statement: No refunds will be given after the refund deadline. Upon cancel- Attention: “I understand that neither Allegro Club, Inc., Tiffin Motorhomes, Inc., nor any camp- lation a $20.00 handling fee will be charged. Travel insurance is an option available ground, restaurant, bus service (if any) or suppliers assume any responsibility, directly through Farm & City Insurance (1-800-331-1520). Full payment must accompany each or indirectly, for the use or operation of a car or recreational vehicle going to or from rally registration. Be sure to note cancellation information as stated above. or during the rally to any cause whatever; or for injuries within or without the rally; or No reservations will be taken after the reservation deadline. damage to property of any kind during or after event.”

Allegro Club, Inc., has planned this event based upon claim assump-  Important: tions, including a minimum number of participants. On occasion, circumstances arise which make the event impractical. Accordingly, Allegro Club reserves the right to cancel the event for any reason, at any time and without obligation. SIDE ROADS 7 Around the Campfire We thought the first article should focus on campfires since that is where we will be meeting with you in each issue. We have made some observations about the magical charm and draw- ing power of a good campfire. A good fire has a therapeutic value, provides warmth, cooks your meal and prompts friendly conversation. Have a seat in one of our extra chairs or bring your own over and we will share some of the things we learned around our camp- fires. Did you notice that there wasn’t any smoke where you chose to sit until you sat there? It’s not just you that draws the smoke. It is a law of nature that shifts the smoke into the faces of the last person to join a campfire circle. John and Lynn Sicklesteel pose in front of their ’95 Allegro Bus. We were educated, at a recent Allegro outside of your pans with liquid dish rocks. Remember that wet rocks can Club chapter monthly outing, on how soap to make cleanup a snap if it’s a pot explode when heated. Have a bucket to reduce the amount of smoke a fire meal. Cooking on a stick, in pie irons of water handy in case the fire gets generates. The trick is to select dry or in aluminum foil eliminates cleanup out of control. Campfires should be hardwood that is split into small pieces, altogether. COLD/OUT when you are through. stack it into a small teepee design and Building a campfire has its respon- That means out and cold to the touch. keep it burning HOT. The shape of the sibilities. Build your fire where the A campfire should never be left unat- fire and strong updraft from the hot fire campground allows and only when the tended. propels the smoke high overhead. “Fire Danger” and wind conditions We will be traveling in the mid-south A campfire is a great tool to meet permit. Make sure the ground is clear and southwest this winter. We will have your fellow campers. Here are some of combustible materials for 10 feet in a campfire going and would welcome a hints to draw visitors with a campfire. all directions. Fires should be in a metal visit from you. Look for a mature cou- Put out your yard decorations and place ring, in a pit with a mound of clean dirt ple in an Allegro Bus with a low smoke the fire ring in a large enough opening around the edge or surrounded by dry campfire and some extra chairs.  to encourage others to join in without being cramped. Place your chairs facing the people traffic, say ‘Hello,’ wave at Peeking over the hill like Charles Kuralt them and have a few empty chairs for guests to sit in. Spare cups and a full John Sicklesteel confesses he can’t say The Sicklesteels have been lifelong pot of coffee make an offer to join you ‘no’ easily and tends to volunteer when campers, boaters – they owned and very attractive. he sees room for improvement. Maybe operated a 42-ft. charter boat on the Great Campfires have other benefits, too. that’s why he agreed to write a column Lakes for seven years – and travelers. They help keep you warm and dry. for Side Roads and roped his wife, Lynn, They have backpacked, canoed, and They keep bugs away. (A smoky fire into the deal. camped in tents, foldout campers, and doesn’t keep more bugs away, so build John and Lynn met at Wayne State Class A and Class C motor homes. They it right.) They are relaxing. The prob- University. He was working 58 hours spend winters where it is warm in their lems of the world will be lifted from a week at an auto factory and going to 32-ft. 1995 Allegro Bus. your shoulders by just sitting back and school. When John and Lynn began A model for Around the Campfire is staring into the dancing flames. Stop dating, the days didn’t have enough On the Road, the long-running CBS worrying what to cook for the next hours. Something had to give, so John News feature with the late Charles meal. Cooking over a bed of cherry red left school. They have been married for Kuralt peeking over the hill to find inter- hardwood coals can’t be beat. Coat the 51 years now, so his priority was wise. esting people and beautiful landscapes.  8 SIDE ROADS ------

Allegro Club Spring Rally ------April 25 – April 29, 2005 (Check out April 30) Compton Ridge Campground 5040 State Highway 265, Branson, MO 65616 Phone: (800) 233-8648 / Fax: (417) 338-8773 / Email: [email protected]• www.comptonridge.com

Cost Includes: 5 Nights camping fee, full hook-ups (first 48 are 50 amps, the rest are 30 amps), 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 5 evening meals, vendor/partner seminars Thursday the 28th, 4 musical shows, including the Oak Ridge Boys, chartered transportation to and from each show, Tiffin Motorhomes technicians will be available for minor repairs. Dealers will display the latest in Tiffin-built motor homes for your viewing. Plenty of food, fun and fellowship.

Cost: Motor home with two (2) people / $695.00 • Each additional guest / $295.00 • Motor home with one (1) person / $475.00

Number of people Amount enclosed $ Balance Due (Feb. 9) $ Allegro Club #: Telephone number: Chapter #: Name: Spouse Name: Mailing Address: City/State/Zip: Name of guest in member’s motor home: We wish to park with our chapter (listed above) or individual: We will be in:  Allegro  Allegro Bay  Phaeton  Allegro Bus  Zephyr Motor home length: License plate #: State: Tow vehicle: Make: License plate #: State: My chassis is:  Ford  Workhorse  Chevrolet  Oshkosh  Spartan  Freightliner  John Deere CUT HERE  Other: YES  / NO  This is our first Allegro Club rally.

------YES  / NO  We need to be placed in the handicapped section. (Enclose Handicapped Certification with your Registration). YES  / NO  We will bring our pet(s). (Participants wishing to park together must send registrations and rally fee in together. Get your reservations in early because of limited spaces of 100 sites. No reservations will be taken after the deadline of February 17, 2005. Deadline for refund is no later than February 4, 2005.) ------Send check, money order or complete credit card information below:  Visa  Master Card  Discover Credit Card Number: Expiration Date ______/ ______/ ______/ ______/ ______1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 Month Year

Signature:

Call 1-256-356-8522 for registration by phone. You may also fax your reservation form to 1-256-356-9746. Be sure to have credit card and pre-registration in hand when you phone during office hours Monday through Friday. Voice mail messages are returned if you call after hours. Make check payable and mail to: Allegro Club, P.O. Box 1429, Red Bay, AL 35582-1429 “I understand that neither Allegro Club, Inc., Tiffin Motor homes, Inc., nor any camp- No refunds will be given after the refund deadline. Upon cancel- Attention: ground, restaurant, bus service (if any) or suppliers assume any responsibility, directly lation a $20.00 handling fee will be charged. Travel insurance is an option available or indirectly, for the use or operation of a car or recreational vehicle going to or from through Farm & City Insurance (1-800-331-1520). Full payment must accompany each or during the rally to any cause whatever; or for injuries within or without the rally; or rally registration. Be sure to note cancellation information as stated above. damage to property of any kind during or after event.” No reservations will be taken after the reservation deadline. Important: Allegro Club, Inc., has planned this event based upon claim assump- tions, including a minimum number of participants. On occasion, circumstances arise  which make the event impractical. Accordingly, Allegro Club reserves the right to cancel the event for any reason, at any time and without obligation. By registering for this event you acknowledge and agree to the following statement: SIDE ROADS 9 Wear your Allegro Club Winterizing doesn't cost, it saves colors with pride An $85 bill for winterizing your Tiffin-  If the coach is plumbed for a washing Proud of your Allegro Club? You can built motor home may sound expensive... machine, open cold and hot water sport the club logo on an expanding until you learn that NOT winterizing valves, catching dripped water line of products. can cost you 10 times as much. in a cloth. Allegro Club Office Manager Verbon Just like houses and cars, RVs should  Turn washing machine to regular Jones is using his retail experience to be winterized to maximize life expec- wash cycle and run one minute while develop club merchandise in several tancy and avoid costly problems. Tiffin air is connected to the system, then style and price ranges. The club “store,” service technicians warn that failing to set to spin cycle so water can pump a laundry rack in the Tiffin Motorhomes winterize or improperly winterizing can out of the machine. headquarters and at club rallies, will see result in a $900 repair bill.  Place towel under washing machine significant growth in coming months. “When pipes in a motor home’s water filter and remove filter, catching “For the convenience and pride of our basement split, it can take up to nine drip from filter slot. Reinsert filter and members, we are beginning to offer some hours to get down there and fix them,” set machine to spin cycle for one nice items, with brand names like Nike, says Richard Blanton, a Tiffin service minute. Remove filter again, catch Arnold Palmer and Cross Creek,” Jones technician. “It can get real expensive real drips and reinsert filter. says. “We’re not out to make money or fast.”  Open low point drain valves again. compete with a major retailer.” “Winterizing an RV only takes about an  Remove and empty water filter Most items at the club office or at hour at the shop,” Blanton adds. “Whether canister from sewer compartment. rallies are samples for members to make you pay us to do it or do it yourself, you’re  Pump two cups of RV antifreeze into color and size selections. Members place still saving a lot of money.” water pump. orders and the club contacts vendors. The following checklist is used by Tiffin  Pour one cup of RV antifreeze into The club marks items up just enough to service technicians for winterizing: each sink, shower and tub drain. cover shipping costs, Jones says. Shipping  Turn water heater switch and  Wipe sink, shower floor and tub averages 3-4 weeks from the order date.  110-volt breaker to off. surfaces with clean, dry cloth.  Drain water tank.  Confirm that all faucets and low point  Drain holding tanks, leave gate drain valves are open. valves open.  Remove water heater plug. Tiffin process and product quality impress her  Open low point drain valves. Ask Cynthia Skinner produces quality motor homes. Great  Close low point drain valves (when what she likes best about effort and time goes into each motor water has drained). her work in the Allegro home and there is evidence of that in the  Using a water pressure regulator, Club office and her completed product.” connect compressed air to the city answer is quick, concise Her responsibilities in the three-person water connection. and direct: “Everything.” Allegro Club office include administrative  Replace water heater drain plug after “I enjoy meeting Cynthia Skinner work such as greeting and assisting club water has been blown from the water people from different places and building members, data entry, answering phones, heater. Use pipe dope on an Atwood a camaraderie with each person. I’m rally planning and whatever else comes water heater and Teflon tape on a excited to be a part of the Allegro Club/ her way. Suburban water heater. Tiffin Motorhomes family.” Skinner’s background and experience  Open every hot and cold sink faucet The Allegro Club secretary since include real estate sales and appraisal, and ensure that all water has drained. June, Skinner says, “I was amazed by office management, public relations and  Flush toilet and water sprayer on the manufacturing process at Tiffin and business ownership.  toilet if equipped with one. appreciate working for a company that 10 SIDE ROADS ------

Allegro Club Summer Lake Escape ------August 22 – August 26, 2005 (Check out August 27) Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping P.O. Box 728, US 27 S, Mackinaw City, MI 49701 Phone (May 1- Oct.31): (231) 436-5584 Fax: (208) 246-4350; (Nov. 1-apr. 30): (231) 436-7380 • www.campmackinaw.com

Cost Includes: 5 Nights camping fee, full hook-ups (30 amps), 4 continental breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 evening meals, prizes and surprises, supplier/partner seminars, shuttle and ferry transportation to and from Mackinac Island, island carriage tour, legendary Grand Hotel Luncheon Buffet, games and entertainment. Tiffin factory technicians will be available for minor repairs. Dealers will display the latest in Tiffin-built motor homes for your viewing. Plenty of food, fun and fellowship.

Cost: Motor home with two (2) people / $545.00 • Each additional guest / $165.00 • Motor home with one (1) person / $395.00

Number of people Amount enclosed $ Balance Due (July 12) $ Allegro Club #: Telephone number: Chapter #: Name: Spouse Name: Mailing Address: City/State/Zip: Name of guest in member’s motor home: We wish to park with our chapter (listed above) or individual: We will be in:  Allegro  Allegro Bay  Phaeton  Allegro Bus  Zephyr Motor home length: License plate #: State: Tow vehicle: Make: License plate #: State: My chassis is:  Ford  Workhorse  Chevrolet  Oshkosh  Spartan  Freightliner  John Deere CUT HERE  Other: YES  / NO  This is our first Allegro Club rally.

------YES  / NO  We need to be placed in the handicapped section. (Enclose Handicapped Certification with your Registration). YES  / NO  We will bring our pet(s). (Participants wishing to park together must send registrations and rally fee in together. Get your reservations in early because of limited spaces of 120 sites. No reservations will be taken after the deadline of July 12, 2005. Deadline for refund is no later than July 12, 2005.) ------Send check, money order or complete credit card information below:  Visa  Master Card  Discover Credit Card Number: Expiration Date ______/ ______/ ______/ ______/ ______1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 Month Year

Signature:

Call 1-256-356-8522 for registration by phone. You may also fax your reservation form to 1-256-356-9746. Be sure to have credit card and pre-registration in hand when you phone during office hours Monday through Friday. Voice mail messages are returned if you call after hours. Make check payable and mail to: Allegro Club, P.O. Box 1429, Red Bay, AL 35582-1429

“I understand that neither Allegro Club, Inc., Tiffin Motorhomes, Inc., nor any camp- No refunds will be given after the refund deadline. Upon cancel- Attention: ground, restaurant, bus service (if any) or suppliers assume any responsibility, directly lation a $20.00 handling fee will be charged. Travel insurance is an option available or indirectly, for the use or operation of a car or recreational vehicle going to or from through Farm & City Insurance (1-800-331-1520). Full payment must accompany each or during the rally to any cause whatever; or for injuries within or without the rally; or rally registration. Be sure to note cancellation information as stated above. damage to property of any kind during or after event.” No reservations will be taken after the reservation deadline. Important: Allegro Club, Inc., has planned this event based upon claim assump- tions, including a minimum number of participants. On occasion, circumstances arise  which make the event impractical. Accordingly, Allegro Club reserves the right to cancel the event for any reason, at any time and without obligation. By registering for this event you acknowledge and agree to the following statement: SIDE ROADS 11 Chapter Chatter: Next time you pass this way

Campgrounds, RV parks & resorts Southern Minnesota quickly under- recommend Cross Creek Campground The Allegro Family of the Shoals in stood how Eagle Cliff Campground in in Delaware, Ohio, as an outstanding Florence, Al., speaks well of the Corinth Laneboro, Mn., earned its name. Many campground with good spots to park. campground near Double Springs, Al. eagles soared above the Tiffin-built Corinth is very secluded with plenty motor homes. Lanesboro attractions Restaurants of nature: birds, rabbits, deer and even include bike trails, fly fishing, quilting A.J. Spurs is described as a fine restaurant armadillos roaming freely. The chapter material shopping and even some roads close to the Flying Flags RV Park in visited there in August. to stretch out on motorcycles. Buellton, Cal., by the Allegro Classy “A very beautiful campground” is Pismo Sands RV Park in Oceana, Chassies of Southern California. how the Allegro Ramblers in Auburn, Ca., offered the California Allegro Buellton is the gateway to the Santa Mich., describe East Jordan Tourist Park Roadrunners from San Jose a beautiful Ynez Valley. The Classy Chassies also in East Jordan, Mich. weekend in a beautiful park in July. suggest The Bread Basket in Alpine, Hurkey Creek Park, near Idyllwild, The Comanche Allegro Chapter Cal., which features breads, pastries Ca., drew raves from the Allegro Classy in Texas visited the Dallas KOA RV and specialty bakery goods; seven days Chassies of Southern California. The Park in Caddo Mills, Tex., Members a week: breakfast, lunch and dinner. 4,000-foot elevation provided a clear say the park was very neat and many Mississippians meet Montana’s, and blue sky, lots of sunshine and light enjoyed hiking there, but Caddo Mills it’s love at first bite. The Mississippi breezes in July. The 59-acre, county- just couldn’t satisfy the need for ade- Allegros from the Magee, Ms., area owned-and-operated park is open year- quate antique shops and coffee houses. suffered through hot and wet weather round. It has 112 campsites, showers, Fortunately, Greenville, Tex., was nearby. for a July campout at Campgrounds of modern restrooms, fire rings, picnic While the Commanche Allegros were the South in Gulfport, Ms. Montana’s, tables and hiking trails into the San in Dallas, the North Texas (Dallas/Fort the chapter reports, was a find: reasonably Jacinto wilderness area. Hurkey Creek Worth) Allegros were at Mitchell’s RV priced with a regular menu and a buffet. flows almost year-round and attracts a Park in Perrin, Tex., a favorite of that “The food is very good, and if you leave variety of wildlife. Two archaeological chapter for many years. “They keep hungry, it’s your own fault,” we are told. sites are located in the park. The Classy improving everything year after year On the same campout, the chapter also Chassies also recommend Oak Creek and it’s becoming more like a resort all the raved about the Beechwood Restaurant RV Resort in El Cajon, Cal. Oak Creek time,” the chapter reports. Latest addition: near the outlet mall. “Wonderful” steaks, is praised as an attractive campground a golf course (six holes so far). fried fish, shrimp, soft-shell crabs and near such popular attractions as Sea The Magnus Municipal Park in salads left no one with room for dessert. World, San Diego Zoo & Wild Animal Petoskey, Mich., earned the approval Like Amish food? Try Zubers Park, Viejas Casino and Outlet Center of the Michigan Allegro Pathmakers at Restaurant in the Amana, Iowa village and Tijuana, Mexico. a September campout. Members liked of Homestead. The Minnesota-Go-For- When a chapter describes a camp- the spectacular view of Little Traverse Allegro chapter in Minneapolis tried ground as “one of the finest in the coun- Bay. They also were attracted to the Zubers in August. try,” it must be pretty nice. That’s what rocky beach where they searched for The California Allegro Roadrunners the Allegro Classy Chassies say about the fossil-encrusted Petoskey Stones, which from San Jose trusted their wagon mas- San Diego KOA RV Park. The chapter contain six-sided coral organisms with ters, then bragged about the selection adds that the park is a well-managed tentacles and specks of food that look of Jackson Rancheria for food (seafood customer service oriented facility. The like eyes, or so we are told. The 350- buffet) and entertainment. The August Classy Chassies celebrated their 13th million-year-old Petoskey Stone is the campout was at Pine Acres Resort in chapter anniversary in September. Official Michigan Stone. Pine Grove, Ca. The Allegro Adventurers from The Central Ohio Allegro folks At the Bean Pot Campground in 12 SIDE ROADS Crossville, Tn., the Tennessee Valley from the Puget Sound Allegros, who was at Hickory Shores Campground. Allegros from Huntsville, Al., dined in stayed at the Rest-A-While RV Park. Carlyle Lake is the largest man-made August at the Bean Pot Restaurant and Hoodsport is a saltwater community on lake in Illinois, covering 25,000 acres. enjoyed beans and cornbread. the western peninsula of Washington. The visitors’ center features an interest- The Black Swamp Allegros from “This sleepy little village offers the ing presentation on the construction of Toledo are good detectives. How campers all of the saltwater activities the Carlyle Dam. In August, the Prairie do you find a decent restaurant in one could want,” the chapter reports. Roadrunners went to the Du Quoin Shipshewana, in the heart of Indiana Timing is important. The Puget State Fairgrounds. Du Quoin offered Amish country? Just watch the Amish Sound Allegros visited Castle Rock, a tour of historic homes, a visit to the farmers and their families lining up at Wash., in September. Castle Rock, a home of Dr. Harvey Pitt to see his duck the Auction Barn Restaurant, which is small timber-oriented community, has decoy collection, a tour of the tropical open Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Great become the gateway to the Mount St. and seasonal garden of the landscape food and prices, we hear. The chapter Helens Volcanic National Monument. designer at the Du Quoin State Fair, also discovered an “awesome” family- Now tourism complements timber in antique shops and a horse show. style fried chicken dinner at the Blue the local economy. Mount St. Helens The Black Swamp Allegros from Gate Restaurant in Shipshewana. made the national news again this fall Toledo heard the sound of hoof beats of Manhattan Beach Lodge on Trout with its rumblings. Can a 350-HP Cat horses pulling buggies all weekend at Lake in Crossland, Minn., did an “out- engine outrun a lava flow? the Shipshewana Campground (North) standing” job of preparing food and Solvang, Cal., is a favorite destination in the Indiana Amish country. The roll- serving 30 members of the Minnesota for visitors from throughout the world, ing hills and fall colors were majestic, Allegro Adventurers in June. The group according to the Allegro Classy Chassies but the huge Shipshewana Flea Market, enjoyed a view of the lake and decided of Southern California. The chapter’s open Tuesdays and Wednesdays except on the spot to come back next year. account of an August campout at the during the winter, really captured the Of course, Texans (the North Texas Flying Flags RV Park in nearby Buellton Black Swampers’ attention. Parking and Allegros from Dallas/Fort Worth) explains why. Solvang has a Danish access are great; prices are unbelievable, favored an eatery named the Ranch heritage, customs and atmosphere. they report. The Fall Crafters Festival House in Gainesville, Tex., discovered Solvang was established in 1911 by provided gospel singing, clogging, apple during a campout at the Red River RV Danish educators as a folk school. butter making and wheat thrashing. Resort in Thackerville, Tex. The chapter Danish architecture, windmills, gas Every highway, every campground, visited the Ranch House both nights. lights, and cobblestone walks abound. every spot on the map is known for The seafood was good, too. A Danish streetcar drawn by Belgian something special. The California horses tours the town. Artificial storks Allegro Roadrunners proved that in Destination attractions are mounted on rooftops as good luck September when they visited Maple The North Texas Allegros from the charms. The Elverhj Museum preserves Leaf RV Park in Gilroy, Cal. Gilroy Dallas/Fort Worth area recommend the Solvang’s history and Danish heritage. is the garlic capital of the world. No Heritage Homestead near the Brazos The Old Mission Santa Ines also has a vampires in Gilroy, we can be sure. In River RV Park in West, Tex. You can see museum filled with vestments, church October, the chapter attended the 11th artisans at work and shop in craft stores, records and religious texts. Annual Seafood and Music Festival in and don’t miss the homemade ice cream “The Quilt Capital of Iowa” is Monterrey, during a campout at Marina in the café. Nearby in West, you’ll find Kalona, the largest Amish community Dunes. Members report quite a variety antique stores. The chapter also enjoyed west of the Mississippi. The Minnesota- of vendors and music. a visit to the Texas Fish Museum while Go-For-Allegro chapter in Minneapolis In June, members of the Pennsylvania staying at the Staway RV Park near carpooled the 43 miles to Kalona from Mountain Laurel Allegros toured a Murchison, Tex. The chapter also has the Amana rally in August. Kalona woolen mill that is being restored with nice things to say about Waco, from an offered a selection of homemade quilts, the help of chapter members Jim and October campout at Riverview RV Park. antiques, collectibles and hand-crafter Marylee Osipov in Bedford, Pa. The Three fun tours: the domino factory items of wood, stone, fabric and metal. campout was at Friendship Village. The makes a high percentage of the world’s The “Please Brake for Snakes” sign group also enjoyed watching a Civil War supply, the Dr. Pepper Museum is down- caught the attention of all members battle reenactment. town and the Texas Rangers Museum of the Allegro Prairie Roadrunners The Winstar Casino near the Red provides a slice of Texas culture. from Champaign, Il., while visiting River RV Resort in Thackerville, Ok., Hoodsport, Wash., gets a thumbs-up the Carlyle Lake area. The campout had more winners than losers among the SIDE ROADS 13 North Texas Allegros during a September chapter seems to have more than its Consider this sentence from his Black campout. The Winstar, the chapter reports, share of battery problems. In November, Swamp Allegros (Toledo) report of a is new, still building and improving, and members Bernie and Sandy Stinton campout in Shipshewana, In.: “The the facilities are spectacular. were all set to leave on a two-month glimmer of the early morning frost on cross-country trip in their coach, but the recently harvested corn and soybean Quirky occurrences were delayed by a battery problem – fields seemed like tiny diamond crystals The wagon master typically gets to in the tow car, not the Tiffin. in the countryside.” But cartooning the campout first, right? That’s what By now, many of us are very tired and writing aside, Poiry’s main claim puzzled the members of the Puget of politics and electioneering, but to fame, at least to an Amish farmer Sound Allegros thought in August, we have to hand it to the Michigan in Shipshewana, is spike nail stacking. when they arrived at the Hoquiam River Allegro Pathmakers for an exceptional Onlookers didn’t believe Poiry’s boast RV Park in Hoquiam, Wash. Wagon theme at the chapter’s July campout that he could stack six spike nails on Master (and our dictionary tells us in Muskegon, Mich. While we don’t the head of a seventh spike. He showed that is not a gender-specific title) Janet have enough space to include the com- them. The Amish farmer said every man Wachtman was nowhere to be found. A plete chapter report, highlights include should learn something new every day blowout and a geographically impaired rounds of bolo ball pitching offered by of his life, and that he had met that goal tow truck driver slowed her arrival. A the chapter’s outgoing president to dem- early that day. chapter search party was still scouring onstrate his continuing commitment to When 15 coaches in the Minnesota the area when she reached the camp- physical fitness for all citizens, a motor- Allegro Adventurers showed up at a ground. cade to Morro’s Smorgasbord Restaurant campground in Emily, Minn., for a June When the Puget Sound Allegros for an evening meal among the vot- campout, the news was not good. The assembled for their monthly drawings ing public in clear view of the press, a chapter’s reservations had been lost and for four door prizes at the Mount St. campfire to consume surplus firewood the campground was full. No problem: Helens RV Park in Castle Rock, Wa., and discuss strategies for solving world they motored to Soldner’s Last Resort this September, Dave Hawley almost problems, breakfast cooked on seasoned Campgrounds in the Backwoods, also won a new suit of tar and feathers. He cast iron grills over an oak fire for the known as George and Bette Soldner’s grabbed all but one of the door prizes. steel worker and logging industry votes, yard. Since this was the chapter’s annual Sounds like a case for the grand jury. shopping to stimulate the economy and fishing weekend, several members Don’t feel bad for Don Sturgeon of venison salami as a nod to meat produc- dutifully visited a nearby lake and the Allegro Classy Chassies in Southern ers and hunters. And when Allegro Club caught enough for a fish fry, held in California. He and Darrell Smith President Jimmy Johnson arrived, you the building that is usually home to cooked pancakes described as “delicious” guessed it: “Hail to the Chief.” the Sondner’s Allegro. for the Allegro Classy Chassies during These Michiganders followed that We can excuse the Citrus Allegros a July campout in Hurkey Creek Park campout with a tribute to the Olympic of Central Florida for not meeting this near Idyllwild, Ca. The leftovers became Games in August. The opening cer- fall. They were otherwise occupied. “In game pieces. Club members – not pan- emony featured a parade of lawn chairs September and October,” reports cakes – used frying pans to toss and and lighting of a ceremonial campfire. Pat Tanguay, “we were visited by four catch the pancakes, which we assume Events included log splitting, story-tell- hurricanes in six weeks. Most of our were not covered with butter or syrup. ing and marathon shopping. A corny members had some damage to house Each time a team made a successful one-liner in the chapter report should and property to attend to so all of our flight and pan landing, members took a be ruled ineligible by the International campouts were cancelled. Everyone is step apart. So why should you not feel Olympic Committee. Describing the slowly getting back to normal activi- bad for Don Sturgeon, whose creations campout meals: “Big winner was Aunt- ties so we are looking forward to our became flapjack Frisbees? His team won. Acid. Ah, what a relief!” November and December campouts to What do a house battery, a water The Tennessee Valley Allegros from finish out this exciting year in Florida.” pump and an icemaker condenser have Huntsville, Al., went to Little Mountain in Please don’t raid your local bowling in common? They all needed repairs July. Surprise: The heat was unbearable. alley, but the Minnesota-Go-For-Allegro during the Classy Chassies’ September To escape the hot weather, they left the chapter likes to stick a bowling pin in visit to the San Diego KOA RV Park. earth behind. Hot-air balloon rides were a the middle of their campfire. We’re told While they weren’t named, “the truly irre- big hit. That’s cool, but doesn’t hot air rise? that sparks fly skyward like a roman placeable bands of in-house mechanics” Bob Poiry, the official Allegro Club candle. Why? One member informs us conquered all three problems. That cartoonist, writes as well as he draws. that it’s the gas in the cedar.  14 SIDE ROADS Become an Allegro Club member From the If you’re reading this newsletter, you’re enjoying one of the benefits of Allegro Club driver’s seat membership. Other benefits include rallies, caravans, local chapters, discounted insurance, (Continued from Page 2) and a 10% discount on Camper’s Choice store and catalog purchases. When you buy a new Tiffin Motorhome, the first year of Allegro Club membership from a resolution of that problem. is free. After that, a one-year membership is $25, a two-year membership is $46, and You won’t have any difficulty collect- a three-year membership is $70, payable by check or credit card. For credit card payment, call ing ammunition in this battle. The RVIA (256) 356-8522. We want you to continue your membership and help us build our numbers by recruiting other owners of Tiffin Motorhomes. (www.rvia.org) estimates RVers travel in 7.2 million motor homes, travel trail- Names: ers, foldout campers and truck campers. Nicknames for Allegro Club ID badge #1: A study by the University of Michigan shows one RV in every 12 vehicle-owning Nicknames for Allegro Club ID badge #2: household in the nation. Address: Talk about this issue in your next Allegro Club chapter gathering. Share City: State: Zip: this column with a legislator or two in your area. Write a letter to the editor of Email: your local newspaper. Let me know your Home Phone: ( ) – progress, so we can build on victories. Alternate Phone: ( ) – As I learned that night in Virginia, Serial No. of Your Tiffin Motorhome: backing up is not an acceptable option. Chassis type: Does your motorhome have slides? If so, on which side or sides? VIN: Jimmy Johnson Name of dealer where motorhome was purchased: Allegro Club President Date of Purchase: Tiffin Motorhomes, Inc.

More holiday recipes (Continued from Page 5) The following recipes are not convection recipes, but they are some of our favorites for the holiday season. Enjoy!

Yummy Instant Hot Chocolate Mix This is a recipe that makes a huge bowl full of instant hot chocolate mix. It is great for Ingredients: a quick snack on a cool night or for gift-giving during the holidays. My children love 2-lb. box Nestle Quick Chocolate Milk mix to take it when we travel because it is quick, easy, and good! 1 8 qt. box instant powdered milk Instructions: Combine all ingredients in 1⁄3-cup mix to a mug of boiling water 1 dash salt very large bowl; mix well until blended. (about 6-7 oz. water). Enjoy with 1 lb. box confectioner’s sugar Store in air-tight container. Use generous a dollop of marshmallow cream! 6 - 8 oz. Creamora, or other powdered creamer

Christmas Punch Ingredients: Instructions: 1 3-oz. box cherry Jello Add and mix well: Freeze above mixture until slushy. When 1 cup sugar 1 12-oz. can frozen lemonade ready to serve, add 1 qt. Ginger ale, 4 cups hot water 3 lemonade cans of water 1⁄2 gal. vanilla ice cream. Dissolve above ingredients. 1 46-oz. can pineapple juice

SIDE ROADS 15