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July/August 2008
RVW Election
In Pursuit of Apple Pie
Report from Rutlades Outpost
www.RVingWomen.org
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RVing
Women
July/August 2008
Volume 18 q Number 4
MEMBERS SHARE
22 So This Is a Maintenance Rally!
by Grace McGrath
24 Friends, Sunshine and Wind
by Dianne Walker
DESTINATIONS
47 A Quest for Apple Pie
by Jan Kuderna
RVW members shared maintenance tips and
got rigs ready for travel at a recent Mid-America
Chapter rally. Shirley Eischeid is shown here
doing spring cleaning. / Photo: Grace McGrath
RVW CONNECTIONS
ON THE ROAD
11 RVW Office Welcomes
Grace Ironside
26 13 28 RVW Member Inducted Into
Hall of Fame
16 21 64 Controlling Your RV’s Weight
by Dee Johnson
Products We Like
a Member Forum
Gratitudes and Opportunities
Your Letters
Photo Contest Results
Election 2008
7 17 Election Ballot
Candidate Statements
RVing Women is a national nonprofit 501(c)7 corporation organized and operated exclusively for social,
recreational and educational purposes. Our mission is to build a supportive network of women RVers so that any woman
can have the opportunity to enjoy the RV lifestyle in a joyful, safe and knowledgeable manner with other women RVers.
CONTENTS
RVing
Women
MANAGING EDITOR
P.O. Box 1940, Apache Junction, Arizona 85217-1940
Dee Johnson
ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE
CHAPTER FOCUS
36 Chapter News
43 Chapter Contacts
Convention 2008
September 24–28
Convention Tours
September 22–25
TRAVEL PLANNER
29 Convention Registration Form
30 Convention 2008
34 Convention Tours
48 Calendar Preview
50 National Rallies & Events
52 Calendar of Events
RVW Departments
3 Steering Column
6 RVW Gift Certificates
8 Welcome to New Members
11 Loyalty Pins Awarded
12 3rd Annual Photo Contest
14 Board of Directors Listing
15 Board Biz
16 Gratitudes and Opportunities
46 Good Neighbor Policy
DEPARTMENTS
4 Editor’s Page
5 Membership Application
10 Membership Benefits
10 If you Move
61 Recalls
62 Classified Listings
63 Advertisers
63 Magazine Deadlines
On our cover, a Denali National Park ranger demonstrates how
she uses a sled on wheels to exercise sled dogs during the summer.
Sleds and dog teams are used to patrol the park in the winter. No ski
mobiles are used. This photo, taken by Judy Amstutz, was selected as
the 2007 photo contest winner in the RVing and Sports category.
4 ––– RVing Women – July/August 2008
Karlene Field
CONTRIBUTORS
Doris Aab – Beckey Beckey
Arlene Dawson – Dee Hamer
Judy Hashem – Elizabeth Hoult
Bev Laing – Marge LeClaire
Monica Lindmark – Grace McGrath
Carol Miller – Gayle Pierce
Jo Schilling – Bonnie Simkins
Tamra Swerdlik – Marilyn Teresi
Susan Trippet – Dianne Walker
Candy Wood
Send membership requests
and address changes to:
RVing Women
P.O. Box 1940
Apache Junction AZ 85217-1940
Toll Free: (888) 557-8464
Local: (480) 671-6226
Fax: (480) 671-6230
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.rvingwomen.org
RVing Women Office Location:
879 N. Plaza Drive, Suite 103B
Apache Junction, Arizona
(across from the post office)
For advertising
information contact:
Karlene Field
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone/Fax: (360) 668-1367
We welcome suggestions and
submissions of articles, photos,
and letters. Please query:
Dee Johnson, Editor
P.O. Box 260
Ferndale WA 98248
Cell Phone (360) 510-2557
Email: [email protected]
RVing Women is published six times a year
for members and friends of RVing Women.
All rights reserved. Permission to quote or
reprint with credit is available on request.
www.rvingwomen.org
STEERING COLUMN
Stay with Your Dreams
The price of gas is higher,
and so is everything else. The
economic outlook for jobs,
for the prices of milk and eggs
and rent and plastic and.....
seems dark and dreary.
A Belgian chemist once
proposed the Theory of Perturbation. He said something
Candy Wood, President
like, “For a chemical reaction
RVW Board of Directors
to occur, molecules have to
get stirred up enough, agitated, perturbed… before anything happens.” And so
it is with us. Sometimes it takes a bit of a challenge to
pull people together, to make something happen, for
creativity to pop up, to overcome by making adjustments, changes. And change, as we know, is inevitable.
Change isn’t difficult. It’s resisting change that’s difficult.
So we learn that we can still do what we intend—a little
differently.
RVW is changing to meet the changing needs of our
ever-dynamic membership. RVW is changing to meet
the increasing needs for prepared leadership by having
elections earlier so we can begin the transition and orientation for the dedicated women who have stepped up.
The value of your vote is increasing as you choose the
leaders to guide us through these times. We are learning that we are interdependent with a lot of different
groups of people. Our vendors are in the same struggle
financially that the rest of us are in trying to meet our
needs that now cost more. We depend on our talented
women in our membership to provide us with ideas and
direction and leadership and time and effort to accomplish the work of the organization. We depend on our
staff that, working only four hours a day, accomplishes
an incredible personal service to our members.
So what’s this about dreams? Without the dream,
the vision, we do not thrive. The vision of RVW is, “We
envision a large welcoming community of women supporting one another in the safe enjoyment of the RV
lifestyle.” If you share that vision, that dream, help us
make it happen. Invite more women to join us, be proactive in welcoming guests who come to your events,
support the need for leadership and for worker bees and
just plain friendly folk, help make it safe by sharing your
information, your skills, your spirit; and make it fun to
be involved in the RV lifestyle no matter what the rest of
the world is doing. This is our organization, and we are
the women of RVing Women. We can make the adjustments and grow because of it. We are all responsible for
making the dream happen.
One of the things I learned in business is that success is always a matter of when. Even the stock market
guys will tell you to think long term. Make adjustments,
diversify, and the economy will swing back around
again. Where many failed in the stock market crash of
‘29 (or even of the early 80’s) was that they didn’t wait
long enough for the market to change. They didn’t have
a backup plan. They didn’t adjust to survive the time
that it took to wait. They focused on their lack instead
of what they had or could create.
So when you have dreams of RVing and enjoying the
camaraderie of RVing Women and it seems like times are
too hard to continue, keep in mind that while it may
seem difficult and it seems like it may take a long time,
know that even the impossible just takes a little longer.
Hang in there. Be creative. Let’s share the many ways we
can keep within our budget and still do what we dream.
It’s not a time to give up on our dreams. This may be the
time to really get clear how much they mean to us.
Candy Wood
RVW Flags Are Here!
The RVW Marketing Committee now has flags
with the RVW logo available for purchase. The
flags have a white background with the logo in
the center. These flags are 12 x 18 inches on a
24-inch staff and are suitable for attaching to a
rig or table or hanging in a window. The price,
just $14.99 each, includes shipping.
To order, contact Meg Van Zyl at [email protected] or call (623) 680-2085
www.rvingwomen.org
July/August 2008 – RVing Women ––– 5
EDITOR’S PAGE
Looking for Uninterrupted Time
Summer is finally arriving
here in the Northwest, and I
am feeling like I have almost
no time to enjoy it. Birds are
singing—entire choirs of them.
Lillies are coming into full
bloom, replacing the color of
spent azaleas and rhododenDee Johnson, Managing Editor drons. The sun has begun making an appearance every day
RVing Women Magazine
and regularly whips behind the
clouds to wash away their gray.
Pleased with the attention, they fluff up and strut across
blue skies.
The young eagles that live in a tree nearby like this turn
in the weather. They are becoming less shy. They now have
included the cedar tree that has been hanging out in this yard
for a century or more on their regular list of neighborhood
stopping places.
Apparently I have observed more than I thought I did—
out of the corner of one eye. I am fortunate to be staying in
a home with an office, a sunroom actually, that overlooks
a quiet Pacific Ocean bay. It’s hard not to notice something
going on.
Right at this minute, sea gulls are swooping back and
forth over the beach, smashing their treasures against rocks,
picking up the pieces, smashing them again and again until
the shells protecting their prey finally give up and open.
How delectable a dinner so hard-won must taste!
I envy their single-minded purpose. I have been multitasking, crowding my to-do list with reminders of things left
undone, and things I must tell others to add to their lists,
and things that will need my attention just as soon as I am
able.
Surrounding me, getting this lovely home ready for
market, are other people who are multi-tasking—stripping
wall paper, painting, bringing down woodwork and setting
it back up again, pulling down lights, re-stringing them and
covering them with new fixtures, each one purchased after
at least three trips to a hardware store. Last week the stove
was sitting on the front porch, keeping company with discarded carpet and various other pieces of this house, and all
the plastic wall plates were sitting behind cupboard doors,
holding conventions in various plastic bags marked for one
room or another. Canvas material, dropped all over the floors,
waited to trip unwary travelers. Blue tape roamed around the
windows and floors, shrieking away from paint rollers. Cell
phones were ringing, and each one owned a signature tune. A
radio was shouting to be heard above all this din, and various
voices whose owners I couldn’t identify took turns keeping
up with the music.
It’s a little less hectic this week. Mostly this week we will
need to put back all those things that were undone—the plastic wall plates that are finished conventioning, the handles
and knobs and other things that hang from the walls and
windows and doors.
But of course there is more. It’s all on my list and on
various scraps of paper. And on my computer. And in email
messages sent back and forth.
And I can tell you that I am proof of what scientists have
been saying for several years now—that multi-tasking decreases productivity. It’s the million little interruptions, the
inability to stay on task, that creates problems. As a species,
if we had to forage for food the way sea gulls do, we would
not able to survive.
My own subversive response is to sneak in a couple more
tasks, gather up a bit more information. I delude myself into
deciding I am actually getting something done.
And that is how I learned this past week that some of
the biggest technology firms—Microsoft, Intel, Google and
I.B.M.—are getting the message that multi-tasking is bad for
business. They have actually formed a nonprofit group to
study ways that can help employees cope with all the information that comes their way each day.
These companies have been very efficient in creating vehicles that carry gazillions of pieces of information back and
forth so that we, working only with our puny little brains,
are taxed to the max taking it in and disseminating it back
out—all in real time, of course.
So far, these companies are only experimenting with
solutions.
A recent solution is E-Mail Addict, invented by Google
engineers to let workers cut themselves off from their inboxes for 15 minutes.
I suppose this new addict program might work for some
people. The report I read says a typical information worker
checks email messages more than 50 times a day and uses
instant messaging 77 times each day, on average. This report,
put together by RescueTime—now there’s a name for you!—
also says that fractured attention costs more than $650 billion
a year in productivity in the U.S. alone.
I’ll let the companies wrestle with productivity issues and
their bottom lines. What I’d like right now is 15 minutes of
total peace, the kind of time that seems to happen when
I’m in my RV.
Dee Johnson
We welcome your letters, suggestions and submissions of articles. The deadline date for each issue of RVing
Women magazine is listed on page 63.
To query the editor or to receive a set of guidelines, email [email protected], call (360) 510-2557 or write
to RVW Editor, P.O. Box 260, Ferndale WA 98248. If you have a Comcast email address listed for the editor, please update
your records. The address has been changed to [email protected].
www.rvingwomen.org
q NEW MEMBERSHIP
q RENEWAL MEMBERSHIP
RVING WOMEN MEMBERSHIP FORM
Recreation, Support, Networking and Education for Women RVers
Visit our website at www.rvingwomen.org
PL E A SE PR I NT
Name _________________________________________________ Membership #______________ Date of Birth _____________
Name _________________________________________________ Membership #______________ Date of Birth _____________
Mailing Address _______________________________________________________________________________________________
City ___________________________________________________ State/Province _____________ Zip _____________________
q Home Phone _____________________q Cell Phone _____________________ Email __________________________
Please initial: _______________ I understand that I am not to use the RVing Women directory or magazine for commercial
purposes or for financial gain, nor permit others to do so. I also understand I am not to discard the directory, but destroy it.
How did you hear about RVW?
q RVW magazine
q RVW brochure
q Internet
q Dealer
q RV show
q RVW Member (name and #) ________________________________________________________________________
q Other __________________________________________________________________________________________
Please indicate services you can provide:
q Tour of your area
q Assistance
q Information
q Overnight stay
I am interested in more information regarding serving with one or more of the following national RVW committees:
q Bylaws
q Finance
q Programs
q Member Services
q Development/Fundraising
q Public Relations and Marketing
q Policies and Procedures
q Elections
I am a member of ______________________________ Chapter as my primary RVW chapter. q Not a member of a chapter
I own or share in the use of a
I travel
I am
q Full time
q Retired
q Class A
q 9-12 months
q Class B
q Class C
q 6-9 months
q Working part time
q Trailer
q 3-6 months
q 5th wheel
q Other RV q None
q Less than 3 months
q Sporadically
q Working full time
My work experience includes ___________________________________________________________________________
RVING WOMEN DUES SCHEDULE FOR NEW AND RENEWAL MEMBERSHIPS
New Member Processing Fee
q A one-time only $10 fee for new memberships $ __________
Individual Membership Dues
q One Member/One Year: $45.00
q One Member/Two Years: $80.00
q One Member/Three Years: $120.00
$ __________
$ __________
Membership renewals are due on the anniversary date of
your current membership application. Renewals not
received within 60 days of the anniversary date will be
considered a new membership.
* Household membership dues reflect the receipt of only
one magazine and one directory per household.
$ __________
q Check or M/O enclosed (payable to RVW)
Household Membership Dues *
Check # _____________________
q Two Members/One Year: $70.00
q Two Members/Two Years: $130.00
q Two Members/Three Years: $180.00
$ __________
Donation to RVW Reserve Fund **
$ __________
TOTAL AMOUNT SUBMITTED (U.S. funds only)
$ __________
$ __________
$ __________
** I would like to make this donation to the RVW Reserve Fund to support
future growth of the organization. I know that my donation is NOT tax deductible.
q Charge my q MasterCard q VISA
Card
Number _______________________________________
Expiration Date ____________ V Code* _____________
Signature ______________________________________
*3-digit number on the back of the card near the signature area
Please mail or fax this form with your dues to: RVW, P.O. Box 1940, Apache Junction AZ 85217-1940
Phones: (888) 557-8464 or (480) 671-6226 • Fax: (480) 671-6230 • Email: [email protected]
www.rvingwomen.org
ver0608
Make this the year she will always remember.
Photo: Judy Amstutz
Give her a gift that embraces friendship
and adventure.
RVING WOMEN
MEMBERSHIP GIFT CERTIFICATE
Welcome to
RVing Women!
(480) 671-6226
(888) 557-8464
[email protected]
www.RVingWomen.org
PO Box 1940
This certificate entitles
____________________________________
to a one-year membership in RVing Women
with all the benefits, camaraderie, information
and support members enjoy.
Presented by
____________________________________
Expires_________ Membership Code _____________
Not redeemable for cash. Redemption value not to exceed $00.00 / 0308-2
To purchase a membership gift certificate
call (480) 671-6226 or (888) 557-8464 or email [email protected]
www.rvingwomen.org
Please note that we are holding our election two months earlier. This will give newly
elected board members an opportunity to meet and speak with those attending the
convention and to get better acquainted with other members of the Board of Directors.
The Election Committee has presented the names of three candidates. Their statements
and responses to our RVW questionnaire are included on pages 17 to 20 and online at
www.rvingwomen.org.
Each RVW member is entitled to one vote. Each member must fill out a separate ballot
and may vote for two candidates.
To cast your vote, mail or fax the ballot printed below. Ballots can also be downloaded
from our website at www.rvingwomen.org. To be counted, ballots must be received by
Monday, Sept. 1, 2008.
Ballots will be tallied at the RVW office in Apache Junction, Arizona. Results will be published in the November/December issue of this magazine and at www.rvingwomen.org.
Ballot for 2009 National Board of Directors Election
Two Positions Are Open
Vote for two candidates for the RVW Board of Directors. Additional entries will invalidate your vote.
G. Wendy Humphreys ......................... p Nancy M. Shoop ................................... p
Mid-America Chapter
Ohio River Valley Chapter
Lyte Hearts Chapter
Constance Wray ................................... p
Mid-America Chapter
Deadline: To be counted, ballots must be received by Monday, Sept. 1, 2008.
Mail to: RVW Election, P.O. Box 1940, Apache Junction AZ 85217-1940 Fax to: (480) 671-6230
For your vote to be counted, you must provide the following
information to validate your membership.
Name_____________________________________________ Membership Number_________________
Mailing
Address_ _______________________________________________________________________________
City_______________________________________________ State/Province_ _____ Zip______________
If you wish to vote anonymously, place your ballot in an envelope without completing this section. Put your name, address and
membership number on the outside of the envelope and place the envelope inside a second envelope addressed to RVW Election,
P.O. Box 1940, Apache Junction AZ 85217-1940. When received, the information on the inner envelope will be verified and the
ballot will be removed and placed in the ballot box. Only paper ballots submitted by mail can be processed anonymously.
www.rvingwomen.org
Read the Candidates’ Statements on Pages 17 – 20
Elections to fill open positions on the RVW Board of Directors are held before the end of
each calendar year, with new directors taking office the following January and serving for
a three-year term. Seven directors serve on the board. Two positions need to be filled for
the term beginning January 2009.
RVW Election 2008 – Vote by Sept. 1
Exercise your right to vote.
Mail or fax your ballot by Sept. 1.
RVW CONNECTIONS
Welcome to These New Members
ALABAMA
DOLLYE EDMONDSON MINA JEAN HILEWITZ JANICE POLLACK MARJORIE RAWLS ANNISTON
ANNISTON
HARPESVILLE
HARPESVILLE
ARIZONA
CECELIA FERNANDES KIM J MCKAY CAROLINE DEEGAN GERALDINE GANNON SUSAN STROBLE DONNA CARTER NANCY BARR CASA GRANDE
CASA GRANDE
CAVE CREEK
CAVE CREEK
FOUNTAIN HILLS
MESA
PHOENIX
CALIFORNIA
SUE LAMPSON KATE BROCK PAM LAMBERT NANCY BENNETT WENDY MUSTAINE IONE GEISSLER MARILYN COEY MARIE DE BERRY AUDREY BRANTNER PEGGY HIGGINS ELLIE KENNEDY BEVERLY SCHELL ALES M TERESA LAFO ANNE DORMAN APTOS
BAKERSFIELD
BAKERSFIELD
EL DORADO HILLS
EL DORADO HILLS
ESCONDIDO
GRASS VALLEY
LAKE ISABELLA
LOS ANGELES
OCEANSIDE
OCEANSIDE
PLEASANTON
SAN DIEGO
SAN FRANCISCO
COLORADO
MONICA ARIOWITSCH SUZANNE PIERSON DEE MCNENNY SUNNY KURTH PATRICIA MCKEOUGH MARCELLA ACH COLETTE HERD BOULDER
BOULDER
CARBONDALE
COLORADO SPRINGS
GUFFEY
PARACHUTE
WESTMINSTER
CONNECTICUT
LAURY A LAVOIE PAMELA J ST JOHN DELAWARE
MARY BETH WELTER WINDHAM
WINDHAM
DELAWARE CITY
FLORIDA
KAREN POLEJ TINA SPANOS LINDA J COWART BARBARA WITTER GERBER NANCY SEALE OSBORNE ROSEMARIE KOPLAU CRESTVIEW
CRESTVIEW
LOXAHATCHEE
NORTH FORT. MEYERS
NORTH FORT. MEYERS
VENIUCE
IOWA
DEBBIE BRANSON HEIDI FOGLE CEDAR RAPIDS
CEDAR RAPIDS
IDAHO
BECKY HAZEN TWIN FALLS
INDIANA
JULIA AEGERTER TAMMY HANSON PEGGIE WARRENBURG INDIANAPOLIS
INDIANAPOLIS
INDIANAPOLIS
MASSACHUSETTS
CAROLYN GOLD TRACEY JUDA LESLIE MADGE AMHERST
LAKEVILLE
LITTLETON
MARYLAND
LOUISE HARMONY EILEEN VANCE LINDA MC CULLOUGH KATHRYN MC CULLOUGH BALTIMORE
BALTIMORE
SILVER SPRING
SILVER SPRING
MICHIGAN
CHANA SMITH KRISTIN VANREKEN CAROL BOONE BERRIEN SPRINGS
HOLLAND
LANSING
MINNESOTA
SUE SATTEL MINNEAPOLIS
MISSOURI
CLAUDINE HERBERT INDEPENDENCE
NORTH CAROLINA
DR KIT BARKER HIGHLANDS
NEW JERSEY
JUDY ALEXANDER LISA KLING BORDENTOWN
BORDENTOWN
www.rvingwomen.org
RVW CONNECTIONS
NEW YORK
LORETTA BOBER JEANETTE SPOOR BRIGHTWATERS
THORNWOOD
OHIO
KAREN COMMON ALLIANCE
OREGON
MARILYN WITYSHYN CHERI KLIMPEL MARYLIN NELSON ASHLAND
PORTLAND
PORTLAND
TEXAS
SUE KALINEC COLLEGE STATION
BENNIE HOBSON LIVINGSTON
FRANCES JACOBS LIVINGSTON
LAURA WILSON-ANDERSON MANSFIELD
BETTY BURDICK MESQUITE
UTAH
LAURA MICHELE LUSK MONTICELLO
VIRGINIA
M BETTY KETRON CHARLOTTESVILLE
PENNSYLVANIA
MAUREEN SCHAEFFER LEDA MANFRE ANDREA M TETI ABINGTON
SELLERSVILLE
SELLERSVILLE
WASHINGTON
MARY ADDLEMAN YVONNE BERGQUIST LYNNWOOD
SEATTLE
SOUTH DAKOTA
DANA SHERMAN SIOUX FALLS
WISCONSIN
MARCIA KRATER MONONA WI
TENNESSEE
JULIE LAWTON OOLTEWAH
ONTARIO, CANADA
CAROL A COWELL PATRICIA KLEIN JILL BUSCHLEIN PORT PERRY
TORONTO
KITCHENER
information about rvw national and chapter events
is regularly updataed at www.rvingwomen.org
www.rvingwomen.org
RVW CONNECTIONS
Stay Connected with RVW
Our members are an enthusiastic group of women
who look for information, support and networking to
expand their horizons, look for new adventures and try
new experiences. RVing Women can help you reach your
independent RVing goals. Your RVing Women membership includes these member benefits:
Friendships and Networking: Our members are
noted for their general helpfulness and friendliness.
It’s what makes our activities so successful and memorable. Members enjoy the company of other women
with common interests. National rallies and events and
RVW chapter rallies and get-togethers are open to all
RVW members, regardless of legal residence and home
chapter membership. If you are traveling and will be
in the area where a chapter event is being held, please
feel free to attend. (Space may be limited, so email or
call a chapter contact as soon in advance as possible to
make reservations.) All RVW chapters are dedicated to
providing a network of friendly support to women who
are traveling. Be assured that you will be welcome to
participate in RVW events wherever you go.
RVing Women Directory: Our membership directory
is published annually. Find other women with similar
interests in your area and meet for get-togethers. Some
members offer overnight parking at their homes or tours
of area attractions to traveling RVing Women. Use our
membership directory to meet new and old friends,
find traveling companions and caravan to interesting
areas.
Bi-monthly Magazine: Every other month members
receive RVing Women, a publication filled with information covering technical subjects, money management,
on-the-road problem solving, stories shared by other
members, a calendar of events and contact information.
RVing Women Website: Membership news, rally
announcements and information for RVers is published
online at www.rvingwomen.org.
Rallies, Events, Caravans and Get-togethers: RVW
rallies are held year-round in every region of the U.S.
and in Canada. Most are three-day events held over a
weekend. Members volunteer their expertise and skills
so we can offer a variety of social and educational events
at reasonable prices. Chapter activities and get-togethers
are local events, organized by volunteers, and generally
are offered at no charge. Special events and caravans
focus on activities and geographic locations that add to
our experiences and knowledge.
Maintenance and Driving Classes: We sponsor
and teach classes for women on safe driving practices
and the care and maintenance of your RV. Some classes
are led by RVing Women; others are led by experts and
technicians we have contracted. All are presented in a
non-patronizing, helpful manner.
Connections: Our website and RVing Women magazine offer a forum for sharing or contacting others for
travel plans, information and advice.
Discounted Services: Many campgrounds, RV resorts
and businesses offer discounts to our members. A list of
these businesses is updated annually and published in
our membership directory. Updates are regularly published online at www.rvingwomen.org. Be prepared to
show your membership card.
Membership Card: A membership card showing
your membership number, name, and date of expiration identifies you to other members and to businesses
offering member discounts.
Club Decal: A colorful decal placed on your RV, truck
or car identifies you in campgrounds and on the road,
making it easier for RVing Women to connect.
If you have questions, check out our website at www.rvingwomen.org or contact our office. Send an email to
[email protected] or call (888) 557-8464 or (480) 671-6226. Fax us at (480) 671-6230.
When you email the RVW office, please include RVW in the subject line. The office gets more than its share
of spam; if your message is not RVW identified, it could be inadvertently deleted as spam or junk mail.
If you move, please notify the RVW office each time your address changes. Include your full name, membership number, previous address, and new address. Send this notification to RVing Women, P.O. Box 1940, Apache
Junction AZ 85217-1940 or email [email protected]. When you move or travel, if you fail to notify us of
your current address, your copy of RVing Women magazine is not forwarded. Instead, it is destroyed at the post
office and the label, along with a service fee, is sent to our office. If this happens more than once, we stop mailing
the magazine and wait to hear from you.
If you have announcements for the magazine and website, please note that the email address for the
magazine editor has been changed. The new email address is [email protected]. The mailing address
is P.O. Box 260, Ferndale WA 98248. The editor’s cell phone is (360) 510-2557. Calendar announcements for the
website should be sent to [email protected]. Other website correspondence should be addressed to
[email protected].
www.rvingwomen.org
RVW CONNECTIONS
RVW Office Welcomes Grace Ironside
I feel fortunate to work for and
with all the wonderful women of
RVW. I have had the real pleasure
of meeting some of you and getting
to know you over the phone and
Grace Ironside
through emails. I look forward to
meeting many more of you and to
helping RVW continue to grow and flourish for many
years to come.
I am pleased to also introduce Grace Ironside, our
new RVW office assistant. Grace has many years of ex-
L
perience working in an office environment and is very
excited to be a part of our organization.
Grace has a great sense of humor and a lovely heart.
She lives in Apache Junction with her husband. She
has two grown children and two beautiful grandsons.
Her daughter was recently married and her son has just
returned to the States after serving in Iraq.
When you are in the Apache Junction area, please
feel free to visit the RVW office. Grace and I welcome
the opportunity to say hello.
Monica Lindmark
RVW Office Manager
P
oyalty ins were presented in May and June to the following members.
To all of you, we appreciate your participation and support of RVW.
15-Year Membership
Sherry Craig
Robbie Crouse
Kathy Dyer
Paulette Egan
E. Barb Ekborg
Dorothy Fuller
Carol Hyatt
Mary E. Jennings
Margaret A. Lee
Gloria Lewis
Pamela R. Moore
Mary Schwab
Karla Smith
Carolyn Smith
Arizona
Arizona
Washington
Wisconsin
Arizona
California
Arizona
Arizona
California
California
Florida
Arizona
California
Maine
10-Year Membership
Polly Bee
Carol Crowley
N. L. “Eric” Erickson
Molly McGlone
Gloria Metzger
Linda Persoon
Marge A. Seal
Nancy Witstine
Nancy C. Wurm
www.rvingwomen.org
California
Pennsylvania
Florida
Missouri
Missouri
Washington
Pennsylvania
Nevada
Michigan
5-Year Membership
Bobbi Bennett
Elsie G. Braum
Kit Breen
Theodora R. Grayson
Patricia Hicks
Gloria A. Hollis
Gail Krentzman
Jan Lucie
Dar Luck
Patricia Newell-Johnson
Carolyn Skinner
Jan Stone
Helene A. Theodoras
Nancy R. Thompson
Nancy J. Tompkins
Priscilla Trowbridge
Martha P. Wilson
Rosalie Woods
New Mexico
Colorado
Maryland
Connecticut
Arizona
Connecticut
Washington
Maryland
Washington
Florida
Arizona
Washington
Arizona
Virginia
Ohio
Arizona
Washington
California
Did We Miss Your Anniversary?
We are very proud and pleased to recognize the loyal
support of our members who have been part of this great
organization for more than five years. If you have been
a member of RVW for five, ten, fifteen years—and if we
failed to recognize that milestone anniversary with a pin
honoring your loyalty—please contact the RVW office
at [email protected] or (480) 671-6230 or (888)
557-8464. We do want you to know that we appreciate you.
Do you have a photo we could use on the cover of this magazine?
If so, you will want to join the 3rd Annual RVW Photo Contest.
Our popular RVW photo contest will be held this year at the 2008
convention in Charleston, South Carolina.
Contest Categories
People
. . . candid or posed photos of people
Pets
. . . action or still photos of animals or pets
Photo: Patty Coon
3rd Annual RVW Photo Contest
Winning photos will again
be featured on RVing Women
magazine covers and inside
the magazine. The winners
will also receive seven extra
copies of the magazine to send
to family and friends.
Sports and Adventure
. . . photos of people participating in Entries must be received in the
physical activities or sports
RVW office by Sept. 1, 2008.
There is an entry fee of $5 per entry.
Landscapes and Nature
. . . photos of outdoor scenes and/or
wildlife
Each entry may consist of no more than one photo per
category, with a maximum of three categories. Please be
RVing
. . . photos related to RVing and the sure to write your membership number, the name of the
RV lifestyle, such as RVs parked category, and the date the photo was taken on the back of
or on the road, campfires and each photo.
photos of chapter activities
How to enter the 3rd Annual RVW Photo Contest
1. This contest is open to members of RVing Women only.
2. Submit only photos taken within the past year. Each entry may consist of no more than one photo per category,
with a maximum of three categories.
3. On the back of each photo, clearly print the category, your RVW membership number and the date the photo
was taken. Include your first name if there are two people under the same RVW number. Also include a note
describing the photo.
4. The entry fee is $5 per person (entering up to three photos). Proceeds will go to support RVW.
5. Send entries to RVing Women, P.O. Box 1940, Apache Junction AZ 85217-1940. For courier delivery, send to
RVing Women, 879 N. Plaza Drive, Suite 103B, Apache Junction AZ 85220.
6. Entries must be received in the RVW office by Sept. 1, 2008.
Requirements for photos:
1. If you are using a conventional or film camera, photos should be submitted as an 8x10-inch professionally
processed print from either a color negative or color slide.
2. If you are using a digital camera, photos must be taken at your camera’s highest resolution setting. (Most camera
shops can help you set your digital camera to high resolution.) On some cameras, the highest setting may be
labeled “TIFF.” Check the size read-out on your camera or in your user’s manual. The highest quality setting
should be at least 72 dpi at 30x40 inches or 300 dpi at 8x10 inches. Copy the photo onto a CD at full size and
resolution in JPEG format. Submit the CD, along with an 8x10-inch print of the photo for judging purposes.
3. No “digital magic” photos will be accepted (i.e., artificially colorized, manipulated to add or delete an image or
manipulated to stretch or skew an object). Photos with captions or text added also will not be accepted.
All entries become the possession of RVing Women and will not be returned. There will be a winner and two runnersup in each category.
www.rvingwomen.org
RVW CONNECTIONS
RVW Member Inducted Into Hall of Fame
RVW member Emma Lou “Scottie” Scott has more than 300 medals
packed away in a box under her bed.
Scottie has been competing in Senior Olympic games in the Houston
area and throughout the state of Texas for 14 years. The medals she has
earned include one gold, two silvers and one bronze.
New medals go on display for a while and then, replaced by newer
ones, they too go in the box.
On display now is a Texas Senior Games Hall of Fame award she
received last year.
Scottie has not limited herself to one area of competition. She has
participated in basketball, cycling, bowling, shot put, discus, javelin,
archery and badminton, her favorite event.
She has been playing badminton since she was 21 and plans to
continue playing in many more competitions. “I do hope to continue
for years,” she says. “I don’t like the alternative.”
Scottie was employed by the Houston Independent School District
as a physical education teacher for 26 years. She taught at Sam Houston
High School and Pershing Middle School.
She also taught golf and archery and coached volleyball and tennis.
One of her former tennis students, now old enough to participate in
Senior Olympic games, has partnered with Scottie for doubles.
Fifty is the minimum age for Senior Olympic
games. There is no upward limit.
Scottie is a member of the Texas Ramblin’ Roses
Chapter. She likes being with active women and
enjoys the camaraderie and friendships chapter
members share. The chapter is hosting the 2009
national convention and is happy for the opportunity
to share that friendship with other RVW members
across the country.
Emma Lou “Scottie” Scott, shown here
at the awards celebration, was inducted
last year into the Texas Senior Games
Hall of Fame. / Photo: Janice Ives
Escape?
Yes, you can!
Buy Factory Direct
in Chilliwack, British Columbia
The Escape 5.0 and Escape 17 are high quality,
100% molded fiberglass RV trailers designed
specifically for smaller tow vehicles. At only
1,900 pounds, the Escape 17' was designed for
mini-vans, small trucks and SUV's. The Escape
5.0, weighing 2,620 pounds, targets the midsize truck.
Scottie poses with her newest medals, all earned this past year.
The other medals she has earned, more than 300, are tucked into
a box under her bed. / Photo: Janice Ives
www.rvingwomen.org
Don’t be fooled by the size! The Escape 17’ and
Escape 5.0 come with a long list of standard
features. See all specs, floor-plans, photos and
pricing under the Information header at
www.escapetrailer.com or call (604) 703 1650.
www.escapetrailer.com – 604 703 1650
2008 RVW Board of Directors
Candy Wood
President
5140 NW Homestead Way
Redmond OR 97756-9796
Phone: (541) 548-7278
Cell:
(541) 815-0392
[email protected]
June Sholin
Director
201 E. Southern Avenue #15
Apache Junction AZ 85219
Phone: (480) 982-3175
Cell: (404) 702-7456
[email protected]
Liaison to:
RVW Office
Chapter Leaders
Trademark and IRS
Futures Committee
Joanne Mallett
Director
3028 Avenue O
Galveston TX 77550-6848
Phone: (409) 762-1987
Cell:
(409) 771-0987
[email protected]
Mary “Rem” Remley
Vice President
3695 Robin Road
Bloomington IN 47401
Phone: (812) 336-0792
Cell: (812) 320-1571
[email protected]
Liaison to:
2008 Convention
Convention Task Force
Development Committee
Policies Committee
Liaison to:
Contracts
Election Committees
Liaison to:
Finance Committee
Member Services
Liaison to:
Bylaws Committee
Programs Committee
National Rallies
RVing Women Office
P.O. Box 1940
Phone: (480) 671-6226
(888) 557-8464
Fax:
(480) 671-6230
[email protected]
Sally Johnson
Treasurer
4401 Walnut Boulevard
Walnut Creek CA 94596
Phone: (925) 935-1340
Cell:
(925) 698-4744
[email protected]
Liaison to:
Website
Magazine
Judith Robinson
Director
116 Neptune Ct.
Indialantic FL 32903-2110
Phone: (321) 779-0589
Cell: (321) 960-7229
rvwjude@gmailcom
Patricia “Beckey” Beckey
Secretary
149 Cloudcrest Court
Roseburg OR 97470
Phone: (541) 679-5127
Cell:
(541) 680-1935
[email protected]
Liaison to:
Ad Sales
PR and Marketing
Photo Contest
2008 Schedule of RVW Board of Directors Meetings
July 29
September 30
November 18
August 26
October 28
December 16
Minutes of these meetings are published online
at www.rvingwomen.org. For access, click on the
Members Login menu button.
www.rvingwomen.org
RVW CONNECTIONS
Board Biz
Your RVW Board of Directors is continuing in its
accomplishments for the benefit of RVing Women.
Thinking as a businessperson is of prime importance for
each board member to maintaining an adequate level of
resources and utilizing the existing revenues optimally
for the benefit of the membership. Providing adequate
reserve funds is one of those tactics. We have contracted
with Smith Barney for management of our reserve funds
and will be able to maximize our return on investment
with them.
Our convention coordinator, Judy Hashem, continues
to provide updates on the progress on Convention 2008,
which is looking promising even with the increase in fuel
prices. Members are making adjustments in other areas
to attend this important and always enjoyable event.
The RVW office is energized with two competent and
helpful staff. Although they work only four hours a day,
they have been updating forms and procedures and further organizing the management of data that is required
with 17 Chapters and around 2,500 members.
As we prepare for the 2008 convention, we are also in
the process of developing the plans for 2009. Celebrating
Texas is the theme for the 2009 convention.
Guidelines for host chapters are being revised with
the help of current and past host chapter members.
The site for the 2010 Convention (in the Southwest) is
being pursued.
The Programs Committee has submitted its revised
Rally Leader Handbook, and the evaluation forms for
conventions, seminars, and national rallies are being
looked at. Soon we will have the results of the survey
that was published in the May/June issue of RVing Women
magazine. Good feedback was received regarding future
surveys and will be implemented. Thanks to all for
helping us gain the information necessary to meet the
ever-changing needs and resources in RVW.
Guidelines for chapter websites have been developed
by the RVW Website Committee. No changes are necessary for existing websites, but the concern was for future
websites and for major overhauls. Information is posted
in the Chapter Resources area of the RVW website.
The RVW Finance Committee (Jan Harris, Jolene
Greeley and Judy Bozman) has been formed and a very
helpful handbook for policies and procedures in the
accounting and management of RVW monies has now
been approved.
The Member Services Committee continues to facilitate sharing of ideas to help chapters create strong
value in their chapters to maintain memberships and,
www.rvingwomen.org
above all, have fun! Representatives from each chapter
are invited to attend Voxwire (online meeting room)
meetings to share ideas. These meetings will be similar
to the Chapter Leader Advisory Council monthly meetings but will only focus on recruiting and retaining
membership issues.
We have added RVW flags to the merchandise provided for purchase by RVW members. To order an RVW
flag you can call the RVW office or go to the new merchandise order form posted on the website.
As you see in this magazine, the Election Committee
was successful in providing three qualified candidates
for RVW board positions next year. Thank you to the
women who are seeking these positions for your desire
to contribute as an RVW board member. It will be a very
rewarding experience to make a difference for RVW in
this way.
The candidates’ bios and responses to the RVW
questionnaire are published on pages 17 to 20. Please
take time now to review their statements and to return
your ballot.
The Development Committee is presently investigating ways to encourage RVW members to make contributions through their estates. The RVW Board has received
several requests by women who have expressed a desire
to provide for RVW in their wills.
The RVW Membership Directory has been mailed
to you. We hope you are able to utilize this resource in
your travels and make new friends in the process. Please
be sure to dispose of the former directory appropriately
so we maintain the confidentiality of our members’
contact information.
The Board of Directors is in the process of doing its
mid-year evaluation of progress toward this year’s goals.
While we still have much to do, know that your board is
determined to make a positive difference. Much of that
difference is due to the many members who have communicated, who have worked on committees, and who
continue to support RVW, the greatest RV organization
in the whole world!
Candy Wood, President
RVW Board of Directors
RVW CONNECTIONS
G
O
ratitudes
and
pportunities
Have Fun. Meet New People.
Volunteer at Convention 2008!
Volunteering is a great way to meet convention
attendees and to maximize the memories you take
with you. Several volunteer opportunities will be
available at this year’s convention in Charleston,
South Carolina. Stop by the Communications
Booth to sign up.
A big, huge gratitude is extended to Diane
Milnor and her Website Committee. They
have produced a very fine document to guide
chapters in developing or re-developing their
websites. This document was approved by the
board without one word of recommended change. Kudos, Website Committee!
Thank you to Jude Robinson, our Board of Directors Rookie of the Year. Jude has had a busy time facilitating
the work of both the Bylaws Committee, which has taken on several tasks this year, and the Programs
Committee, which has produced an updated and more user friendly Rally Leader Handbook to serve as a
resource for planning both chapter and national rallies. Thank you, Jude, for your leadership and hard work.
Thank you to the Bylaws Committee and Programs Committees for participating in creating a stronger and
more responsive RVing Women.
Thank you to Rem Remley for the months of work you have put in to your responsibilities. Being the point
person on the board for the convention is an awesome task, and you have helped facilitate the communication
and support for our coordinator so well. At the same time, as the liaison to Policies and Procedures, you have
accomplished an incredible amount of work in gathering and organizing RVW’s policy guidance documents
and statements. This contribution will be of incredible value to the directors and members for years to come.
Thank you, Rem, for your energy and dedication to these tasks.
Thank you to Sally Johnson and the Finance Committee for their research and for putting down on paper
the policies and procedures for how we manage the funds of RVW—an awesome task done with professionalism
and detail. These dedicated women have established a guide that will help us keep the financials managed and
accounted for at a high standard for years to come. Thank you, Sally and all the other contributors, for your
focus and for ensuring this document was put together so completely and so well.
Thank you to Beckey Beckey and to the Election Committee, which included Judi Ketels, Gail Pierce and
Wendy Humphreys, for contacting RVW leaders and finding three excellent candidates willing to serve on
the 2009 RVW Board of Directors. Validate the work this committee has done by returning your ballot before
Sept. 1. Voting is your opportunity to help direct the future of RVing Women.
And to Eilene Breu, our special thanks for generously agreeing to pack up her car and deliver several boxes
filled with items needed for Convention 2008.
Have you registered for Convention 2008?
Use the form on page 29
or go to www.rvwconvention2008.com
www.rvingwomen.org
Six months later, a friend suggested that I attend an RVW
get-together. It was a life-changing experience. The camaraderie, the laughter and the activities transfused life into my
veins.
Email
[email protected]
Phone
(304) 552-5939
Mid-America Chapter
Lyte Hearts Chapter
I have been to five of the last six national conventions, assisting as a volunteer and as chair of the golf outing three
times. I am a part-time fulltimer. I attend get togethers in the
East, the Midwest, Texas and Florida.
This is my second year as the chair of the Election Committee. The committee has had difficulty finding members
who are willing to serve. If elected to the Board of Directors,
I hope to address the issue of chapter responsibility for the
national organization. I feel it is now my time to give back
to the organization that gave me a new life.
What, in your opinion, is the role of chapters in the national organization?
Because there are chapters, the national organization exists. It is the responsibility of
the chapters to provide competent leaders that they trust to the national organization.
These leaders form the board of the national organization. The board provides the framework in which the chapters operate, coordinates and disseminates information and supports and strengthens the chapters.
Specifically, how would you organize new chapters in underserved areas?
The website and the magazine should regularly post a notice inviting RVW members
or potential members to contact the RVW office if they are interested in starting a new
chapter in their area of the country.
It is important that local residents be indigenous leaders in their part of the country.
A board liasion could then contact a member of the Membership Committee to work
with the indigenous leaders. The Membership Committee should develop a handbook for
organizing and operating a new chapter. This handbook would be made available to the
new leaders.
Members of the Fulltimers Chapter who would be willing could be trained as organizers and travel to that part of the country to help start the chapter. They could assist in the
first (and possibly more) get-togethers for the newly formed chapter.
The board could solicit proposals for the establishment of a new chapter. Grants of at
least $500 could be awarded to help with start-up costs. This money could soon be returned thru the dues of new members.
If an underserved area is identified by the board (rather than by an indigenous member), it will be much more difficult to start a new chapter. Members who live near the area
should be identified and asked if they would assist in starting a new chapter nearby. All
means of communication would need to be used to identify interested potential members.
The handbook and hopefully resident members in the nearby areas would assist in the
organization and operation.
What are the three goals you would like to have the Board concentrate on that would
help RVW grow and thrive?
RVW has five stated goals. They are all important toward stabilizing and promoting
growth of the organization. I assume that they were considered after much board discussion. Goals are written to be long term and should extend beyond 2008. Each goal should
continued on page 20
www.rvingwomen.org
Use the Ballot on Page 7
After serving for 23 years as the executive director of a
nonprofit neighborhood center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, I
retired and became a fulltime caretaker for my housemate
of 34 years. When she died 2 1/2 years later of ALS, I felt my
life had ended.
G. Wendy Humphreys / Candidate Statement
Nancy M. Shoop / Candidate Statement
Email
[email protected]
Phone
(317) 202-0201
Cell
(317) 289-9940
Working and volunteering to support organizations I love is
a part of my life. For 25 years, as a GI specialty nurse at the
Veterans Administration Medical Center in Indianapolis,
Indiana, I enjoyed caring for the men and women that
served our county. For the last 12 years, I have worked in the
healthcare field as a vendor nurse educator. I volunteered for
my specialty nursing organization and spent eight years participating in committees, serving on the board

of d
irectors
and then becoming president for 6,000 members with a
two-million-dollar budget. I have also served on three other
nonprofit organizations as a director and officer.
I originally learned about RVW back in 1993 and was a
member for about four years. I attended the first RVW
convention in Lodi, California in 1996. I also attended the
Goshen, Indiana convention. In 2004, I rejoined RVW and
have participated actively with friends in developing the
Ohio River Valley RVW and attending many rallies. This year
I am volunteering as the Communication Committee chair
for the Charleston, South Carolina convention. Now I am
ready to assist the other directors in accomplishing the RVW
mission and goals.
With the serious economic challenges we are all now facing, I believe that the chapter
role is becoming more important in meeting our mission. Chapters are closer to the members and potential members, and rallies are the best networking opportunities. We need to
offer the chapters and the members benefits that bond them to RVW.
Specifically, how would you organizize new chapters in underserved areas?
Starting a new chapter in an underserved area will require experienced chapter leaders
as well as national leaders supporting the interested members, perhaps hosting a gettogether to help gather the 20 signatures required. RVW needs to make sure the area is
underserved. Many chapters cross state and regional boundaries, and we want to retain all
chapters and members.
What three goals would you like to have the board concerntrate on that would help
RVW grow and thrive?
Goal 1 – Addressing the changing needs of women RVers.
Goal 2 – Providing for the financial health of RVW.
Goal 3 – Developing and sharing ideas and resources that support the members and
the chapters.
Selecting one of those three goals, what action would you recommend to move toward accomplishing that goal?
To discover the changing needs of women RVers, a needs assessment of our members
and potential members could direct RVW’s future plans to meet the RVW mission. Everyone is dealing with a changing economy, including the rapidly increasing cost of fuel,
food and camping. RVW can accomplish much of this needs assessment through the RVW
magazine, RVW website, the national convention, chapter rallies, and visiting other RV
organization rallies.
How would you address the problem of member retention?
Member retention is as important as the recruitment of new members. We need to ask
members who do not renew why they are not renewing. Are they leaving RVing in general
or are they leaving RVW specifically? This will provide us ideas so we can create a better
sense of value.
www.rvingwomen.org
I will be a positive part of your board for three reasons:
Email
[email protected]
Phone
(913) 558-0998
Mid-America Chapter
• First, I know how to listen and digest (sometimes conflicting) information.
• Second, I know how to use that information to make
decisions. I understand the advantage of honest compromise and that sometimes it is better to “win some
than to lose all.” I also know how to hold my ground
when I am right.
• Third, when decisions are made, I know how to articulate to the membership the intent and rationale
of board decisions. Two-way communication between
board and membership is imperative.
I’d love to visit with you, so email and let’s talk. I need your
vote and ask that you mail it no later than Aug. 15.
Perhaps the most important thing to remember in a member-driven organization is that
there can never be an us and them attitude. National leaders percolate out of the membership, and each director is a member. Members have charged the board to make decisions
that create continuity of both thought and action from chapter to chapter. When members
make thoughtful requests of the board, those requests must be heard, and the rationale
for the board’s decision must be given. Likewise, if after thoughtful deliberation the board
makes a request of the chapters, the chapters must comply or give reasonable and detailed
reasons for non-compliance.
Specifically, how would you organize new chapters in underserved areas?
Some chapters, because of their large populations, find it almost impossible to find a
rally location that can accommodate the whole group; this makes real growth impossible.
By allowing/encouraging these large groups to divide into two or three smaller groups,
chapters would have a greater chance to grow. (This is the same principle as dividing flower
bulbs to get more flowers.)
Other chapters cover geographic areas so great that members from one end of the
chapter area can’t come to meetings at the other end; this causes members to drop out and
keeps prospective members from joining. Here, a geographic divide would allow twice as
many rallies and twice as many opportunities for growth.
You might read this and think, “Let other chapters divide if they want to, but I’ll fight
to keep my group together.” I know we all want to camp with our friends, but now you
have created an opportunity to have mega rallies from time to time. Think about it.
What are three goals you would like to have the board concentrate on that would
help RVW grow and thrive?
Any goals I might suggest would fall under the general category of improved communication. First, I will encourage better use of technology. Put the magazine online. Put the
member directory on a CD. Be timelier with announcements online. Use more detail when
reporting minutes. Second, I will encourage board members to be more visible. As a board
www.rvingwomen.org
In 2005, I retired following 30 years’ teaching English, American History, and coaching competitive speech. I directed the
church choir and held offices in a major political party and
its women’s federation. For years, my dream was to buy a
Winnebago and see the world. As a beginning fulltimer, I am
seeing that dream come true. I discovered RVW in 2005. I
have attended three national conventions and now serve on
the national Member Services Committee.
Constance Wray / Candidate Statement
G. Wendy Humphreys / from page 17
Constance Wray / from page 19
have objectives with established timelines
and delegated responsibilities. The objectives with responsibilities and timelines
are then written into an annual work plan
for the board. Then you can determine
what the board should concentrate on
that would help RVW grow and thrive
within one year.
member, I will attend as many chapters as
time and the price of gasoline will allow.
We must find ways to let you know we
exist to serve RVW—you.
Communication requires someone
who hears and responds. When your
chapter fails to respond to requests made
by the board—i.e. timely completions
and return of forms—communication
fails. When you have ideas, suggestions
or complaints and don’t talk with a board
member, communication fails.
Selecting one of those three goals, what
action would you recommend to move
toward accomplishing that goal?
After serving on the Election Committee the past two years, I am very
concerned that members are not stepping
up to be leaders on the national Board of
Directors and committees. I suggest that
chapter leaders meet to establish regions
across the country. Regions on a rotating
basis would select a board member to fill
board vacancies.
Committee members could also be
appointed by the region. This would
ensure representation from all regions of
the country. The regional representatives
would be answerable to their region.
How would you address the problem of
member retention?
Member retention will always be a
concern. People’s lives change, not everyone who attends an outing will like RVW,
and the increase in gasoline and other
expenses means turnover. Some will join,
some will drop out, and some will rejoin.
Ideally, each chapter would designate
one person as membership chair (some
chapters do this). This person would
monitor the membership list and the attendance lists at events. Contacts would
be made with new members and members who no longer attend. Trends may
be identified and then actions taken to
promote continued membership.
The names of chapter members who
are new or who have not renewed would
be shared with the membership chair by
the national organization. The chapter
membership chair could contact the individuals for information, trends.
Selecting one of those three goals, what
action would you recommend to move
toward accomplishing that goal?
Improved communication between
board and membership and board and
chapter leadership. I’m guessing that
greater/smarter use of technology is the
easiest way to improve communication.
How would you address the problem of
member retention?
Why do members choose to let their
membership lapse? Poor health. Advanced
age. Time required for distant rallies.
Increasing fuel costs. Discomfort with
group. No one to travel with. The question assumes non-renewal is a problem,
but it might not be if membership growth
counterbalances, causing total membership to remain at status quo. Obviously
everyone—from chapter leaders, members
of national committees, members and
national directory—must work together to
maintain membership levels.
Perhaps each chapter should set a goal
to increase its membership by a certain
percentage. Chapters could set membership maintenance goals. By using contests, awards, membership levels, etc. the
board could help chapters develop an
excitement to help meet the goals.
Attrition is not just a concern of RVW.
In fact, every organization you deal with
is in the same situation. Let me know
what your civic or church group is doing
to maintain membership. Your board is
concerned and actively working to find
solutions to attrition. As a member of the
board, I will join the efforts seeking solutions for RVW membership retention.
www.rvingwomen.org
RVW CONNECTIONS
Your Letters . . .
Going to Convention
I just made arrangements for a travel trailer rental for
Convention 2008. It will cost under $1,000 for the 17’
trailer for 10 days, and we will not be worrying about
the price of gas and stressing over tornados that may or
may not be encountered traveling across country.
We reserved the trailer through The Trail Center, an
RV dealer in the Charleston area, and took advantage
of their special weekly rate. Gloria Morgan is the contact person for reservations. You can reach her at (843)
552-4700 or email [email protected].
We are looking forward to being a part of Convention
2008 in Charleston, South Carolina, and we’re glad this
option is available.—Meg Van Zyl
Geri Thorson, from Surrey, BC Canada,
joined the Cascadia Chapter of RVW about
two years ago. It is with great sadness that
we report that she passed away on April 17,
2008. She will be missed by her partner
Dorothy Milner, RVW friends and the many
people she came in contact with on the road
and in her community. Cards and notes
of remembrance can be sent to Dorothy
Milner, 1-6280 King George Hwy, Surrey BC
V3X 1E9 or to [email protected].
Pat Parker and Rita Watkins
Will Think about Sagebrush
Our magazine arrived in the mail today, and it was
a wonderful excuse to stop doing house stuff and settle
down to read it.
As always, loved your editorial on page 4. I don’t
recall, or perhaps even know, the smell of sagebrush,
but I am certainly going to think about sagebrush the
next time we are in the Midwest or Southwest. I loved
Wyoming, stopping there as we tented cross country—
swung to the side by a river, which was below us, and
looked across to see men on horseback herding cattle
along. I felt like I was part of a movie about cowboys and
all of that. We took a couple of pics, which are favorites
to look at when we open the albums of our trip.
We will sense the smells we have around us here
and when we travel. Being outdoors puts me in another
world.
I just talked with my neighbor, Melinda Lord, who
is the author of the Pet E.R. Guide, and gave her copies
of RVing Women magazine. She said she has talked with
you about doing an article.
We are heading to the Northeast Network Spring Fling
in Ashford, Connecticut, and I may find myself writing
an article. That part of Connecticut is very picturesque.
I haven’t any idea what the campground is like, but it
seems that no matter where we RVing Women land,
everyone has a fun time.—Jill Huie
[Editor’s note: We welcome articles, especially with photos,
about your travels—places you have seen or your good and
not-so-good experiences on the road. Send your letters and
articles to [email protected]. An article by Melinda
Lord will appear in our September/October issue.]
How do you get those RVW brag tags
you’ve seen on shirts and hats and rigs?
Ordering is easy.
• Go online to www.rvingwomen.org.
• Click on the members only page.
• Take your pick of patches, pins, decals,
badges and clothing.
www.rvingwomen.org
MEMBERS SHARE
So This Is a Maintenance Rally!
His name is Ed Smoot, and I met
him at the RVW Mid-America Chapter rally held at Ruladers Outpost.
So what does a man have to do
with RVing women? Actually, Ed
brought a fleet of vehicles and staff
of men from A–Z Mobile RV Repair
to the rally.They tinkered, fiddled,
investigated, installed, fixed, taught
and exhibited an inspiring amount
of patience.
The drive to Rutladers Outpost
just south of Louisburg, Kansas was
exciting to say the least. The wind
was whipping so hard I had to grip
the steering wheel, white knuckled,
for a solid three and one-half hours.
It was much worse when a big rig
passed me—whooosh!
Mine was not the most exciting
trip, however. The Carolyns—you
remember them, I met them at the
RVW driving school, two wonderful
women both named Carolyn—lost
a wheel. Evidently the only thing
holding the wheel on was the brake
line when the bearings went bad.
Everything holding the tire on broke.
The Carolyns were only three miles
from Rutladers when this happened.
They were able to call the insurance
company and Ed Smoot and get a
tow to the Outpost. They rented a
car to get back home while Ed and
his band of merry men repaired their
rig on Monday.
Arriving as almost the last one on
Friday night, I was able to easily back
my coach into my camping space,
thanks to my experience at the RVW
driving school in March. I arrived
in time to join everyone for dinner.
It was a catered meal of ham, pork,
scalloped potatoes and mixed fresh
vegetables, with cake for dessert.
Before dinner we were introduced
to Ed who gave us a run down of the
maintenance classes, new products
and a preview of what we could expect on Saturday. This is the fourth
year that A–Z Mobile RV Repair has
been coming to this rally, so they
have the process down and do what
they can to make it convenient for
RVing Women. They set their walkies on channel 14 and announce
the name of the person who’s RV
they are going to work on next. The
customer listens for their name so
they do not have to be at their RV
waiting for the repair guy; instead
they can be out and about, learning
and having fun. I left a note on my
coach with my phone number on it,
as I don’t have walkie-talkies.
Jan Russell (with the able assistance of Tammy Zeller) coordinated
the rally. Jan spoke about the fun
part of the weekend; we’ll get to
that later.
Okay, it’s later. After dinner, we
divided up into teams seated at
tables. We were given two pages of
questions to answer within a period
of 30 minutes—what a great way to
meet people! We had a former nurse
practitioner, Nicki, at our table so
she easily rolled off the periodic
table answers. In fact she did pretty
darn well at all the answers. We had
lots of laughs, which is the point of
the game anyway. Our table tied for
second. The women at the first place
table got wind-up flashlights. It was
pretty funny to watch eight women
wind up their flashlights in unison.
Saturday morning started out
pretty lazily because I didn’t have
to be at the newbie meeting until
10 a.m. The meeting started on time
with coffee, juice and donuts as the
lure to get us there. We introduced
ourselves, all fifteen of us, and then
Norma Cartwright, leader of the
chapter, told us about the beginnings
of the chapter, including some very
funny stories. We received the latest
newsletter and had official functions
(which this one is) and meet-and-eat
gatherings explained to us.
Many of the women wore RVing
Women clothing, which was appealing to us newbies. We wanted that
visual statement of belonging also!
When everyone had all her questions answered, we gathered for a
group photo. Ahhh, the beginning of
belonging. Not so! These women are
so warm and friendly. Every newbie
has to feel welcomed. They are such
an inclusive group that it saddens
me that our chapter is only having
three meetings this year. I want to be
around them more than that!
The next event was our educational seminar. Now we are getting
to the guts of the event! Ed is a congenial kind of guy, and he had some
valuable information to share. His
tips for the beginning of the season
included:
• Check the roof and seal seams
every 90 days.
• Check the batteries and water
and charge level.
• Check and service the engine
oil.
• Check and service the generator.
• Inspect the tire sidewalls and
tire pressure pounds per square
inch (PSI).
• Check the liquefied petroleum
(LP) system and perform leakdown check.
• Check the LP and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors.
• Check and inspect the water
system for leaks.
• Check the appliances for proper
operation.
There were many, many questions that Ed answered. His guys are
all Recreational Vehicle Industry
Association (RVIA) certified, and
they travel to the RV—hence the
word mobile in their name. He has
five guys and five trucks, and believe
me, they were kept busy at this rally!
Ed told me that each year they put
www.rvingwomen.org
MEMBERS SHARE
article and photos by Grace McGrath
70,000 to 80,000 miles on each
vehicle in their fleet servicing the
Greater Kansas City area.
After the maintenance class, Ed
held a winterizing/de-winterizing
class. I live in my coach full time, so
I skipped this class to get down to
the games! Cindy had promised to
be my partner for bocce ball. No, I
don’t know how to play—nor did I
know how to play the other games:
marbles, golf chipping or ladder
golf. I did give it the old college try
though! I didn’t win, but I didn’t
care either. As a newbie, anyone
that played with me got to put a star
next to my name on her scorecard.
Members are supposed to seek out
newbies to include them.
When I checked my pedometer,
I found that I had 3,500 steps on
it—by noon! Hanging out with these
gals was getting me to my 10,000
steps per day pretty fast.
While we were playing games, a
gorgeous Prevost coach pulled up
right next to our game site. It was
Ronnie McDowell, the evening entertainment, straight from Nashville.
He stayed in the coach, but the RM
insignia on the back of the coach
gave him away.
Ed himself showed up at my
coach to attack my honey-do list
just before the swap-or-sell event
began, so I was not able to attend.
Ed needed my attention! Members
brought items that they no longer
needed that they were willing to
sell or swap for something they did
need. I understand I missed some
great handmade jewelry, among
other treasures.
My class A is falling apart from
the inside out. A number of annoying things were happening, like
the screws that keep appearing on
the floor. I’d collect them until the
source revealed itself—like the door
falling off the vanity. I had a whole
www.rvingwomen.org
baggie of latches and screws for Ed
to put back on plus lots of other
little things. I love the coach—it’s
a beauty—but the workmanship is
sorely lacking. Ed started with the
shower doors that were off track, and
then moved on to other things that
were falling apart. When Ed finished
with my coach, a ton of questions
were answered and many more questions were created.
The 5:30 p.m. class that Ed held
focused on common problems. He
didn’t disappoint us as he covered
generators, awnings and appliances.
We talked about mud daubers, shaking or tapping the fire extinguisher
to keep the chemicals loose as they
settle over time, and the auto transfer
switch on some generators. I’m not
going to explain each of these topics.
You need to have your own experience at a maintenance rally.
Dinner at 7 p.m. was as late as
lunch was at 1:30 p.m. I was so busy
having fun that I forgot to eat.
Besides the maintenance and the
play part of the maintenance rally,
there was also a business meeting. At
some time we do have to get down
to business. This meeting was held
as a breakfast meeting on Sunday
morning. Lots of laughter erupted
as we tried to be serious about our
business.
We did finally complete the
agenda, say our good-byes, and
roll on out. As a relatively new RVing Woman, I’d say my experience
with the driving school—and now
the maintenance rally—have set a
pretty high bar on my expectations
for this group. I’ve met some pretty
awesome people. Thanks ladies. It’s
been great!
Grace McGrath is a fulltimer. She is writing a book about her first year of living in
a motorhome.
Ed Smoot at work on Grace McGrath’s rig.
A to Z Mobile RV Repair has been coming
to the Mid-American Chapter’s spring
maintenance rally for the past four years.
Shirley Eischeid took advantage of a lull in
activities to clean her roof. Maintenance
and cleaning tips were liberally shared at
the maintenance rally.
MEMBERS SHARE
Friends, Sunshine and Wind
Flexibility was the key word for
the Arizona Chapter rally in the
beautiful Glen Canyon and Marble
Canyon area near Lee’s Ferry. Most
campsites overlooked the Colorado
River and it’s beautiful azul clear
water. There were kayaks on many
of the RV’s and tow cars as they
pulled in, and they just kept coming
in! With 39 RVs and 62 women, it
wasn’t an easy task to stay flexible,
especially when there was not going
to be a lot of down time!
The weekend was jam-packed
with events and things to do, as
is the usual Betty Tunstall, Sharon
Dewey and Donna Hutchison fashion when hosting. Two of our three
hostesses, Betty and Sharon, were
already onsite. They are workamped
as hosts for the campground until
the end of May.
Thanks to all who came to this
spectacular part of Arizona, the
weekend was quite a success. Lee’s
Ferry is a national park recreation
area where boating, fishing and
kayaking were thoroughly enjoyed
by the participants.
Arrival was on a first-come, firstserve basis so many women arrived
early—and it was a good thing, too!
The campground filled up quickly
with our 39 RVs, but also with other
Rally leaders and their helpers took a break
to pose for a photo. From left to right, they
are: Betty, Patty, Captain Natalie, Donna,
Stephanie, Audrey and Shron (in front).
campers who were crammed into
any available space, including sites
that weren’t sites.
Our weekend started out with
a fantastic talk by Peregrine Fund
speaker Tim Hauck about condors
being introduced back into the wild.
Did you know that only 22 condors
were left alive in 1987, and now we
have 350—thanks to groups like the
Peregrine Fund?
Condors have a wingspan of
about 10 feet. We looked for them
flying and soaring all weekend. A few
were even spotted!
Oh, and one more thing on this
topic: ladies, if you hunt, please
don’t use lead bullets! Change to
copper; you will not only be helping the environment, but you won’t
be giving yourself lead poisoning if
you eat the meat. You can get a lot
more info about this very important
information from the Peregrine Fund
at www.peregrinefund.org.
After Tim Hauck’s talk, we had
a great social hour with food and
laughter. We enjoyed a cool evening
breeze. Betty had her whistle ready
to go once again, but we voted
on hand raising instead of getting
blasted with that darn shrill sound.
Our discussions centered around all
the activities that would be happening during the rally. Everyone was
very excited about the upcoming
schedule of fly fishing lessons with
Captain Natalie, kayaking the river,
hikes with information about the
history of the area, and a secret beach
hunt. We signed up for a rubber duck
race in the Paria River, which flows
into the Colorado, and for games like
Rummikub, darts, electronic target
shooting competitions and more. We
got a raffle ticket just for showing up!
We also were all excited about the
upcoming silent auction, with items
like GPS units and full-day fly-fishing
lessons with Captain Natalie.
Well, did I mention flexibility?
Friday was beautiful. Eight or
nine people got kayak lessons, and
a couple of people paddled upstream
against a very strong current just so
they could get out on the water; the
boat taking kayaks upstream would
not be running until Saturday. Five
very lucky people got their fly fishing lesson with Captain Natalie and
came back very excited about being
able to learn what a beautiful and
serene sport this could be.
Hefty winds did not keep us from enjoying
fabulous Navajo tacos. We moved down
the hill to the back yard of Marble Canyon
Lodge for this event.
The on-the-fly kayak lessons,
taught by Barbara Jamison, went well
and those people paddled around
the lesson area to get some practice
with what they had learned. Later
in the afternoon, some of us took in
a hike and history lesson with Betty
Tunstall. This was more than a history lesson about the area—it also
www.rvingwomen.org
MEMBERS SHARE
article and photos by Dianne Walker
Instead of putting our rubber ducks in the
water, we tagged them with numbers. The
dry duck whose number was drawn was
declared the winner.
was a history lesson on how Betty
became so acquainted with this area.
The hike ended at the river. By then,
everyone was pretty warm, so they
got a lesson from Captain Natalie
in hat dipping and putting it back
on top of your head. I hear some
even went for a quick—and I mean
quick—dip in the 42-degree water.
Friday night was authentic Navajo
taco night. This was supposed to
happen at the campsite pavilion,
but high winds drove us away. Once
again flexibility came into play. We
moved down the hill to the backyard of Marble Canyon Lodge where
Sandy Willie and her sisters made
some of the most fabulous Navajo
tacos many of us have ever tasted. So
many people came down the hill in
their cars that the sisters almost ran
short on toppings. Some people even
got the sisters to make extra taco
bread so they could take it home and
heat it up with cinnamon sugar.
Saturday started out a little shaky
as the ranger came by about 9 a.m.
and stated that there was a wind
advisory up with gusts from 40 to 60
mph. Some people had already been
towed up the river nine miles so they
could kayak back. Our shuttle boat
had been grounded, but Audrey had
once again saved the day by bringing her boat and offering to shuttle
people up the river.
www.rvingwomen.org
We were supposed to have games,
a silent auction and a potluck, but
with the wind blowing like it was,
things were cancelled. The rubber
duck race—cancelled. The games
outside—cancelled.
No, but wait! Flexibility once
again. No potluck, but we all enjoyed
a social at Marble Canyon Restaurant
where our fabulous hostesses—
least, it felt that way. We had juice
and fruit cups for breakfast as some
said their goodbyes. Most people
stayed because the hostesses had set
up a nice lunch at the Cliff Dwellers
Lodge with chef Marnie. We all piled
into our cars again and bombarded
the small restaurant. The food was
absolutely fabulous. We all enjoyed
being social before sending off the
few that were leaving that afternoon.
Many stayed on for another night,
as it was hard to leave this beautiful
setting, even with the wind blowing
like it was. It was another absolutely
fabulous event
Dianne Walker lives in Santa Fe, New
Mexico. She is a member of the Arizona
Chapter.
We went to Marble Canyon Restaurant
instead of sharing a potluck at camp. They
graciously allowed us to hold our silent
auction and hang out there.
flexibility again—found us a place
to go that graciously allowed us to
have our silent auction and hang out
there. We had raffle drawings where
the winners got to choose their
prizes as their number was drawn.
The rubber duck race became an
assigned number on each duck and
a numbered ticket was given to the
owner of the duck. The winning dry
duck was drawn out of a hat to find
out who was the fastest. We cheered
our ducks on anyway, even though
it wasn’t quite the same. We even
ended up helping the waiter serve
and take orders because he wasn’t expecting so many people to eat since
we had only arranged for the room
and drinks. Everything went fine,
and the cook managed to get those
orders out fast—it was amazing! And
the food was delicious!
Sunday morning the winds were
still blowing away even stronger. At
FIELDS
of
FIRE
by Carol Ogg
Fields of Fire – To read this book is to
flip through scenes that rivet us with
the intimate intensity of snapshots,
both comic and tragic. From Wyoming
to Saigon, we see the narrator encounter experiences that test her mettle. We
see her confront suffering and warfare
in Vietnam, even as she discovers the
depth of her love for another woman
soldier. A story seldom known, Carol
tells this story with the grace and
humor of a western girl who gives no
quarter in the service of her country.
Visit: carologg.com for more details.
Autographed copies are available.
Contact carol at [email protected]
You can order online at:
Xlibris.com, Amazon.com,
Barnes & Nobel or your local bookstore.
ISBN13(TP)978-4134-8645-2
ISBN13(HB)978-1-4134-8646
ON THE ROAD
Controlling Your RV’s Weight
You probably didn’t open this magazine expecting to be told to put your RV
on a diet, but that might be the message
you need to hear.
A recent survey published on several
RV websites reports that 64 percent of
RVs on the road have a weight problem.
Overloading an RV or improperly
distributing the weight an RV carries can
seriously restrict braking and steering.
Weight problems also cause premature
tire failure, suspension problems, broken
axles, burned-up transmissions and other
mechanical failures.
You have a problem if your RV exceeds any of the manufacturer’s established limitations for total load, axle load
or tire loading.
Understanding Weight Limits
In most cases, the only solution to
overloading is to drop weight. There
is no way to increase the GVWR (gross
vehicle weight rating) of your RV, trailer
or fifth wheel.
GVWR indicates the maximum
allowable weight of your RV when everything, including fuel and fresh water
tanks, is loaded.
Someone might tell you that you can
carry more weight than the GVWR limit,
that manufacturers expect you to do this
and build in a cushion to accommodate
extra pounds, but that is not true!
UVW (unloaded vehicle weight)
indicates the weight of your RV when it
was built at the factory. UVW does not
include cargo, propane, fuel or the combined weight of you and your passengers.
It also does not include dealer-installed
accessories such as awnings and air conditioning units.
CCC (cargo carrying capacity, also
referred to as NCC, net carrying capacity) is the maximum weight your RV can
carry after you have deducted your RV’s
UVW, the weight of optional equipment
or added-on accessories, the weight of
full fresh water tanks and fuel tanks, and
the weight of the driver and passengers
from the GVWR.
The weight of the driver and passengers is generally computed as SCWR—
sleeping capacity weight rating—by
multiplying the number of manufactur-
er-designated sleeping positions by 154
pounds.
The CCC (cargo carrying capacity)
number tells you how many cans of
tomato paste, CDs, books, shoes, cordless
drills, Texas Hold ‘em decks and other
necessities you can carry.
It’s easy to underestimate these
weighty concerns. On average, a fulltimer carries slightly more 1,000 pounds
of stuff; vacationers and weekenders
carry about 500 pounds.
Price and size are not predictors of
an RV’s cargo carrying capacity. Some
upscale models make surprisingly low
allowance for all the things you might
want to take along with you. Those
nice extras like granite countertops and
full-size refrigerators add to the coach’s
weight.
Distributing Your Weight
To make sure the weight you are
carrying is properly balanced, you will
need to find out how much weight is
loaded on each axle. An improperly balanced load, even if your total weight is
within specified limits, can reduce your
ability to handle your RV and to stop
safely. Improper loading will also affect
the life of your axles, springs, bearings
and tires.
Mike Bronzini, owner of Brazel’s RV
Performance in Centralia, Washington,
says having improper front to rear weight
ratios is the largest problem they see
with motorhome handling. “The proper
ratio can be determined by weighing the
coach, front to back, and dividing the
rear weight by half” he says. “If the rear
of the coach weighs 11,000 pounds, then
we would divide that weight by two,
which equals 5,500 pounds. This 50 percent ratio is the ideal weight for the front
axle. If, instead, the front of this coach
weighed in at 4,500 pounds, a 41 percent
ratio, the motorhome would tend to
wander, and no amount of aftermarket
upgrades would help make the coach
drive better. This is why it is important
to go to a repair facility you can trust and
not one that will just hang parts on your
coach for the cheapest price. If the shop
you go to won’t test drive to diagnose
your problem, then take it somewhere
that will.”
Check your owner’s manual or
manufacturer’s data label to determine
the proper weight for each axle, and
stay within those limits. Take into consideration how holding tanks and heavy
items are configured. Be aware that one
side of an axle might carry more weight
than another. If the kitchen sink, refrigerator, stove and microwave are all
on one side of the coach, this side will
weigh more. Giving consideration to
side-to-side balance, the manufacturer
may have compensated for this imbalance by providing more carrying space
on the opposite side.
If you are buying an RV, finding out
the actual weight distribution is an item
that should be on your checklist. The
best way to do this is to have the RV
weighed before you buy.
In any case, balance will need to be
a primary consideration when you load
your coach. General guidelines are to put
heavier items low and forward, lighter
items up higher, and to try to equalize
personal belongings between the right
and left sides.
Treating Your Tires with Respect
While inflation levels from the front
axle may differ from a rear axle, the air
pressure of each tire across an axle must
be equal. Again—it’s all about keeping
things in balance.
Some RVers inflate their tires about
10 percent above the recommended tire
pressure. This used to be recommended
as a way to allow for natural depletion
of air pressure. A better idea is to check
tire pressure often so that loss of air pressure does not become a problem. Under
inflation increases tire wear and reduces
the capacity of the tire and the amount
of load-carrying capacity of the RV.
Check tire pressure when your tires
are cold—when they have had a rest period of at least three hours and have been
driven less than a mile. Invest in a good
quality, accurate tire pressure gauge.
Towing
If you are pulling a trailer or fifth
wheel, you will need to make sure your
vehicle is rated to handle the load—
including cargo, the passengers you are
carrying and the vehicle itself.
www.rvingwomen.org
ON THE ROAD
by Dee Johnson
You will also need to check manufacturer specifications for your hitch to
determine the maximum towed vehicle
weight allowed. TWR (tongue weight rating), TLR (tongue load rating) and VLR
(vehicle load rating) are additional terms
that will become familiar to you. These
ratings tell you the maximum vertical
load that can be carried by the hitch and
the weight measurements for towing.
Tongue weight (or king pin weight for
fifth wheels) refers to the amount of the
trailer’s weight that presses down on the
trailer hitch.
Too much tongue weight can press
your tow vehicle down in back, causing
the front wheels to lift. This can result
in reduced steering and braking response
and can damage your vehicle’s suspension or drivetrain.
Too little tongue weight can reduce
rear wheel traction and cause swaying.
Getting Weighed
It is important to weigh your RV
front-to-back and side-to-side when you
acquire your RV, when you first load it,
and whenever you add equipment that
could affect the weight or distribution of
your RV. If you are not in balance, reload
and have your rig weighed again.
Many truck stops have certified scales
you can use to weigh your rig. In some
states, weighing stations will allow you
to weigh.
Get yourself weighed periodically.
The fact that you were well within limits
last spring does not mean that you still
are. We all have a habit of accumulating
things, and our things do tend to move
around from one cupboard or corner to
another. Try to keep things in balance,
and keep a check on the amount of
weight you are packing.
GVWR – Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: the maximum weight rating of a motorhome, trailer or fifth wheel.
GAWR – Gross Axle Weight Rating: the maximum allowable weight each axle
assembly is designed to carry, as measured at the tires, including the weight of
the axle assembly itself.
GCWR – Gross Combination Weight Rating: the maximum weight rating of a
towing vehicle and a towed unit in combination.
UVW – Unloaded Vehicle Weight: the weight of the RV as built at the factory,
with full fuel tanks, engine oil and coolants. Does not include cargo, fresh
water, LP gas, occupants or dealer-installed accessories.
CCC – Cargo Carrying Capacity: weight allowance after the following are
deducted from GVWR: UVW, full fresh water tanks, full LP gas weight, SCWR
and optional accessories. Also called payload capacity.
SCWR – Sleeping Capacity Weight Rating: the manufacturer-designated number
of sleeping positions multiplied by 154 pounds.
GVW – Gross Vehicle Weight: the actual weight of a fully loaded vehicle when
it is driven onto a scale.
GTW – Gross Trailer Weight: the actual weight of a fully loaded trailer, including
tongue load or king pin weight, when it is driven onto a scale.
Dry Weight: the empty weight of an RV. May or may not include the weight
of appliances, slide-outs, etc.
RV
Décor
Complete Motor Home
and RV Remodeling
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Wet Weight: the weight of an RV with fuel onboard. Generally, but not always,
includes the weight of LPG and fresh water.
Curb Weight: the weight of an RV sitting on the lot with optional equipment
but without the personal load you will be adding. Also called net weight.
Fresh water = 8.3 pounds per gallon
Gasoline = 5.6 pounds per gallon
www.rvingwomen.org
Propane = 4.2 pounds per gallon
Diesel = 6.8 pounds per gallon
661-999-3000
www.rvdecor.com
ON THE ROAD
Products We Like
Letter to Sanderson Ford
Last December, on a crosscountry trip in our RV, we had a
problem just as we were entering the Phoenix area. The RV
was experiencing a distinct drop
in power due to a failure of the
catalytic converter. Not having a
clue where to go in the P
hoenix
area, we were directed to the
Sanderson Ford Truck/RV dealership.
Due to the modified design of
our exhaust system, the service
department did not have the
equipment to do the repair. However, your service advisor, David
Lidster, invited us to spend the
night in your parking lot, where
we were surprised to find water
and electric hook-ups. The next
morning, David gave us directions to a muffler shop that had
RV accommodations, and we
were repaired and back on the
road by that same afternoon.
We would like to thank David
and your dealership for relieving
our stress and going the extra
mile for us.—Elizabeth Hoult
Fan-Tastic Vent was Stephen Milks’ response to a problem. An RV sales representative and former service technician well
acquainted with motor coach interiors, Milks recognized that RVers
needed a breath of fresh air.
He and his wife Penny set out to
find a fix for this problem.
Working from a home shop, they
spent several months in 1984 drawing
up plans, tinkering, cutting, gluing and
testing. The result was a 14-inch by
14-inch prototype built with wood that
was used as the model for the first FanTastic Vent.
After a bit more tinkering, they were
ready to go to market with a 12-volt,
The new Fan-Tastic Vent
high-efficiency ceiling fan that used the
Pop ‘N Lock Screens go
same principles as attic fans to improve
in place without screws.
ventilation and air exchange systems in
motorhomes.
Getting to market proved a bit difficult. Motorhome manufacturers did not see a great advantage in putting more expensive fans
into their units when customers seemed to be quite satisfied with
the equipment that already was standard, and distributors did not
see any advantage in carrying a fan that dealers weren’t asking for.
Looking for a way around this problem, the young company
decided to go directly to customers by attending various RV rallies.
A long-time supporter of RVing Women, they are regularly represented at RVW conventions.
Word-of-mouth recommendations and response to customer requests for improvements have driven the success of
the company. Fan-Tastic Vent now produces fan systems for
most U.S. RV manufacturers and sells five aftermarket vent
models ranging from $125 to $375.
The newest innovation is a “Pop ‘n Lock Screen” that
goes securely in place without screws. Those of us who look
for reasons to put off cleaning our vent screens will have to
look harder—taking the new screens on and off is much too
In 2002, Fan-Tastic Vent introduced “Endless
easy. The Pop ‘n Lock Screen in now standard on all new
Breeze,” a portable fan built to keep pets cool
Fan-Tastic Vents and fits into existing models.
during long trips.
Earlier Fan-Tastic Vent innovations included rain-sensor
and variable-speed models, a radio-frequency hand-remote
system and the “Create-A-Breeze” vent built especially for travel trailers.
Fan-Tastic Vent is a pet-friendly company. Several four-legged companions bring their owners to work,
and some of them may have been complainers. In 2002, the company introduced “Endless Breeze,” a 12-volt
portable fan built to keep pets cool during long trips. It plugs into most standard DC outlets or operates on a
110-volt AC outlet with a converter..
Please share your good news about vendors and services and the RVing tips and tricks you have personally discovered
that make RVing more rewarding. Send your tips and letters of appreciation to [email protected] or mail to
RVW Editor, P.O. Box 260, Ferndale WA 98248.
www.rvingwomen.org
REGISTRATION FORM
Please print and mail or fax this form by September 1 to:
RVW CONVENTION 2008
RVW, P.O. Box 1940
September 24 – 28, 2008
Fax to (480) 671-6230 with credit card payment
The Exchange Park – Charleston, South Carolina
Today’s Date_ ____________________________
Last Name______________________________ First Name_________________________ RVW #____________________
Mailing Address_____________________________City_ __________________________ State_______ Zip____________
Phone_____________________________ Email_____________________________________________________________
Traveling with:
Last Name______________________________ First Name_________________________ RVW #____________________
We need a SEPARATE form for each attendee. Registration confirmation will be by email from RVW.
q Please send me email notices about convention updates and changes.
Rig type: q MH q TT q 5th.. Rig Length _________________________
q This is my first RVW convention
q Tow Car
Describe special needs for parking, dietary requirements or other special considerations we need to know.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Campsite fees for full hookup sites are $30 per night for one RV with two people. We have nearly 200 full hookup sites, all with 50-amp
electricity. A 50 to 30 amp step-down plug will be required for 30-amp rigs. Boondocking sites are also available for $15 per night.
Parking will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Early arrivals beginning Saturday, Sept. 20, are welcome.
Arrival Date_ ______________________________
Departure Date_ ____________________________
Number of nights_______ x $30 = _ ____________
q
q
q
My travel partner is paying the campsite fees.
I will be staying at a different location.
Please park my rig in boondocking.
Number of nights_______ x $15 = __________
$_ ___________
q $60 Advanced Maintenance Class / Tuesday, Sept. 23
q $65 Pet Emergency Certification Class / Tuesday, Sept. 23
q $39 A Day in Historic Charleston / Monday, Sept. 22
q $57 Quenby Plantation Tour with Kayak Rental / Tuesday, Sept. 23
q $72 Tea Plantation and Irvin House Tour / Wednesday, Sept. 24
q $43 A Ghostly Night on the Town / Thursday, Sept. 25
$_ ___________
$_ ___________
Total Optional Programs and Tours$_ ___________
(Please check appropriate boxes on this form)
Convention Shirts $______________ (Please indicate quantities and sizes below)
$_ ___________
q Check or M/O enclosed (payable to RVW)
q Charge my q MasterCard q VISA
Card Number__________________________________________
Expiration Date_________________________V Code*_ _______
Signature_____________________________________________
*3-digit number on the back of the card near the signature area
Convention Shirts / Women’s Sizes
$25 each S_________ M________ L________ XL_________
$26 each XXL________ XXXL_ _______
www.rvingwomen.org
q $40 Beginning Maintenance Class / Monday, Sept. 22
q $49 A Charleston Walk / Wednesday, Sept. 24
(includes entertainment and banquet)
TOTAL FEES.....U.S. funds only
q $65 Golf Outing / Monday, Sept. 22
q $37 Quenby Plantation Tour w/o Kayak Rental / Tuesday, Sept. 23
Convention Registration Fees
RVW Member......$145 by August 1
($170 postmarked after August 1)
Non-member.....$195 by August 1
($220 postmarked after August 1)
Campsite Fees
Optional Programs and Guided Tours
Please keep a copy of this form for your records. Confirmation, driving
directions, and additional information will be sent upon receipt of payment.
All cancellations must be requested in writing and sent to RVW, P.O.
Box 1940, Apache Junction AZ 85217. A $50 processing fee will be deducted
from each refund payment. No refunds will be made after Aug. 1.
Your registration for Convention 2008 indicates your knowledge and
agreement that you assume all risks attendant to your participation in this
event (including optional side trips) operated by or under the control of RVing Women and hereby waive, release and forever discharge RVing Women,
and any of its officers, employees, agents, successors and assigns, from any
and all claims or actions of any kind for personal injuries and/or property
damage which you may cause or sustain during the event or during travel
to and from the event. This further confirms your agreement to pay any and
all costs, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, that may be incurred by the
above entities as a result of any such claim by you or your agents and further
acknowledges your sole responsibility for your personal safety, possessions,
equipment and vehicles during this event and its related activites. This
waiver and release is to be controlled by Arizona Law.
In addition, by attending this event, I irrevocably and unconditionally
consent to being photographed and recorded, including being viodeotaped,
and to having my voice, likeness, identification and actions used in any and
all media without restriction. Recording and use will be made in reliance on
the consent evidenced by my attendance at this event. If for any reason I do
not consent as herein provided, I am responsible for notifying the photographers and/or video recorders.
ver 0308.2
CONVENTION 2008
RVW National Convention 2008
CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA
September 24 to 28, 2008
Convention 2008 will be held in
Charleston, South Carolina, a city
that offers so much to do that you’ll
want to schedule extra time to see the
sights and experience the culture that
makes this a favorite southern hospitality destination.
Charleston is a beautifully preserved city. Cobblestone streets
meander past antebellum homes,
some dressed in traditional white and
others flaunting more colorful coats.
Horse-drawn carriages take you back
into history, moving at the slower
pace that perfectly fits the time and
place you are visiting. Take this trip
back into history, and you will find
yourself eavesdropping on conversations that took place
when our country separated and then came back together
again.
Spend some time walking about and listening and you
will discover the rich diversity that has made Charleston
unique. You will hear the long-savored vowels adopted by
plantation owners and the expressive Gullah language developed by the Africans who worked their plantations.
In Charleston, both the past and the present are celebrated. This is a place where the south comes alive. There
are art festivals, food celebrations, concerts and theater
productions, sports competitions, golf courses, beaches and,
of course, historical sites and museums.
We will be making some history of our own in Charleston in September when we gather for our 12th annual RVW
convention. As you have come to expect, Convention 2008
will be filled with learning and just-for-fun events, entertainment and many, many opportunities to connect with
other RVing Women.
About Exchange Park:
The 162-acre Exchange
Park will be our home during the convention. The
park offers full hookups
with 50-amp service for
more than 175 rigs. They
circle around a central
green space with a beautiful pond. Nearby are the
25,000-square-foot and
11,000-square-foot halls
we will be using for seminars, exhibits and entertainment.
To register for Convention 2008, use the form on
page 29 or go to www.rvwconvention2008.com
Entertainment: Variety best describes the entertainment you will experience at Convention 2008. To begin
your adventure discovering the history of Charleston, you
will meet two Gullah women whose African ancestors were
brought to Charleston as slaves. Using music, language and
dance, they will bring the distinctive Gullah culture to life
for us on Wednesday evening.
On Friday evening, each chapter will have an opportunity to show their stuff at our variety show hosted by
the MidAtlantic Chapter. Whether you sing, dance or play
an instrument, you’ll want to be part of this fun evening,
so make sure your chapter leaders contact Thursa Stair at
[email protected] to participate in this show!
We are making arrangements for Saturday evening to
bring the New Dawn Singers to Convention 2008. These
young men and women—most are college age young people
who commit to touring with the group for a one-year
period—are proving to the world that the art of entertainment will live on for many more years to come. They have
toured throughout the USA, Canada, Mexico, Jamaica and
the Bahamas. They bring classic and new songs, high-energy
dancing and amazing costumes and sound effects to the
stage. You may find yourself wanting to get up and dance!
Just for fun activities: RVW conventions are packed
with many things to do, including lots of activities designed to help you get acquainted with members from other
chapters and geographic areas. There will be a first-timers
get-together, chapter activities and not-quite-serious competitions, including a Fun Raising Fundraiser Competition
offering opportunities to show off hidden talents and skills.
We will wrap up all this fun with a banquet and closing
ceremonies on Saturday night.
Something new
for women
owned by a pet
A Pet Emergency Certification Class is being offered
Tuesday, Sept. 23. In this class you will learn first aid care for
your animal companions and ways to identify and evaluate
the signs and symptoms a pet may develop and the appropriate actions to be taken for proper emergency medical
treatment.
Cost: $65 per person
How to register: Please check the appropriate box on
your Convention 2008 registration form (see page 29) and
send the $65 fee to the RVW office with your convention
registration.
www.rvingwomen.org
CONVENTION 2008
What does the camping area look like?
There are 175-plus full hookup campsites with 50-amp
service at Exchange Park. If your rig is a 30-amp RV, you
will need to bring a 30 to 50 amp step-down adapter with
a pigtail that allows your 30-amp plug to fit into a 50-amp
plug. There is also a large boondock area.
All sites offer sewer except the boondocking area. If you
plan to boondock, please come with a full water tank and
empty black and gray tanks.
Most campsites are fairly level, but bring leveling blocks
just in case. If you have built-in levelers, please bring pads
to put under them as most of us will be parked on grass.
Seminars and classes: A full program of seminars and
classes will be offered—so many you won’t be able to attend
them all. Topics include RV maintenance and safety, GPS
and satellite systems, fire prevention, cleaning and RV care
tips and personal development seminars. Unless otherwise
noted, seminars scheduled during the convention are included in your registration fee.
Exhibits: Bring a shopping list with you to Convention
2008 and save some room in your rig to take home products
you didn’t even know existed. Exhibitors will be offering
a wide range of products and services, including fire safety
equipment, maintenance and cleaning supplies, RV toys and
toys for our animal companions, crafting supplies we can
carry with us, and personal products designed for women
going on the road.
Tours and optional programs: Plan to arrive a few days
early so you can participate in tours chosen by RVW to
provide you with a great introduction to Charleston and the
surrounding area—and, of course, RVW golfers are invited to
sign up for our friendly Monday golf outing.
Convention shirts: Add a Convention 2008 shirt to
your collection of RVW clothing. Pre-order when you send
in your registration form, which includes space to indicate
quantities and sizes.
How to register: Registration for Convention 2008
opens April 1. To register, use the registration form on
page 29 or go to www.rvwconvention2008.com and fill out
the online form. Please note: a separate registration form
is needed for each attendee.
Mail or fax this form with payment of all fees to RVW,
P.O. Box 1940, Apache Junction AZ 85217-1940. Fax to (480)
671-6230 with credit card payment. Registration forms
must be received in the RVW office by Sept. 1.
More information: Convention 2008 updates are posted
to the convention website. You can link to the site from
www.rvingwomen.org or go directly to the convention website at www.rvwconvention2008.com.
www.rvingwomen.org
Parking will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
There are restrooms and showers on the campgrounds.
However, the showers are gang showers (an open room
with multiple shower heads) and do not provide individual
privacy. We are looking into renting shower facilities, so
check the convention website at www.rvwconvention2008.
com for updates.
For more information about Exchange Park, go to
www.exchangepark.org.
When can we arrive? Can we stay after convention?
Plan to arrive at Exchange Park as early as Sept. 19, the
Friday prior to the convention. We will have registration
open for early arrivals so you can discover the wonders of
Charleston on your own and spend some extra time with
RVW friends.
You may stay over until Monday, Sept. 29.
Where might we stay prior to convention?
There is a KOA campground within a mile of Exchange
Park. Call (843) 797-1045 for information and reservations.
Also close by is the beautiful James Island County Park.
Call (843) 795-7275 for information.
You can find information about other area campgrounds at
www.charlestonsfinest.com/sc/camp.htm.
What options are available if we don’t bring an RV?
The Trail Center, a local RV dealer, will rent travel trailers to you and bring them to Exchange Park for $100
(round trip). Rentals are three nights minimum for $295
plus $75 each additional night. See www.trailcenter.com
for details or contact Gloria Morgan at (843) 552-4700 or
[email protected].
You may wish to stay at a nearby hotel. The pet-friendly
Holiday Inn Express at exit 199A in Summerville is only
two minutes from Exchange Park.
History is not only
something we look back on.
History is something
we create every day.
Make some history of your own
at this year’s RVW Convention.
www.rvingwomen.org
RVW Convention 2008
Exchange Park
Charleston, South Carolina
September 24 – 28, 2008
To register for Convention 2008
use the form on page 29 or go to
www.rvwconvention2008.com
www.rvingwomen.org
CONVENTION TOURS
Monday, September 22
A DAY IN HISTORIC CHARLESTON
8:45 a.m. to 3 p.m.
We will tour Charleston, one of the most beautiful
and historic cities in the south. You will see stately homes
with enchanted gardens, magnificent public buildings and
majestic churches with tall steeples standing guard over
the harbor. You will also see the College of Charleston,
Harleston Village (one of the early suburbs of the city),
the Citadel, the Military College of South Carolina and, of
course, Charleston’s famous Battery with its elegant rainbow
townhouses built by planters and merchants in the 18th
and 19th centuries. Time will be allowed for shopping and
browsing the Old City Market and enjoying lunch on your
own at one of Charleston’s fine restaurants.
We will meet at 8:45 a.m. at the Exchange Park front gate
for transportation. Tour requires a minimum of 25 attendees
or may be cancelled.
registration.
Tuesday, Sepember 23
Quenby Rice Plantation Kayak Tour
8:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
We are planning a delightful day on one of the popular
golf courses near Exchange Park. This is a fun-filled competition, with the accent on fun. Check the convention website
at www.rvwconvention2008.com for updates.
registration.
Journey with your expert guide through Christ Church
Parish, home to hundreds of rice plantations in the 18th
and 19th centuries. Along the way, you will learn about the
history and culture unique to this area. Your backwater tour
starts on Quenby Creek and twists along the historic banks
of Quenby Plantation. Journeying past abandoned rice fields
now covered with wildflowers, we will paddle on to the
east branch of the Cooper River where wooden barges once
floated rice, cotton and indigo out to the Charleston Harbor.
Halfway through our tour we will explore Pompion Hill
Chapel, a hundreds-of-years-old English church attended by
French Huguenots and European Settlers. Expect to see bald
eagles, hawks and wetland shorebirds. Along the way we will
stop to have lunch. We may be accompanied by a nostalgic
American alligator.
Guests will need to be at the point of entry on Quenby
Creek by 8:30 a.m.
Cost: $37 per person (with your own kayak); $57 per
person (with rental kayak)
send the tour fee to the RVW office with your convention
registration.
Monday, Sepember 22
BEGINNING MAINTENANCE CLASS
8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tuesday, Sepember 23
ADVANCED MAINTENANCE CLASS
8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
This basic RV maintenance class will guide you to a better understanding of your RV and what you must do to keep
it on the road for many years to come. This class is designed
for women who are new to RVing or need a refresher course
in the basic care and feeding of travel trailers, fifth wheels
and motorhomes.
registration.
This RV maintenance class, for more experienced RVers,
will help you learn how to troubleshoot problems when
they do occur and do some minor repairs that can save you
money. To benefit from this class, it is recommended that
you have a good understanding of the basic functions of the
components of your RV.
registration.
Monday, September 22
GOLF OUTING
www.rvingwomen.org
CONVENTION TOURS
Wednesday, September 24
CHARLESTON TEA PLANTATION AND
IRVIN HOUSE VINEYARDS EXCURSION
8:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
You will cross beautiful marshlands and travel roads
canopied with the branches of majestic oak trees. Along the
way, you will discover the rich history of the large plantations that once occupied these islands and hear stories of
the unique culture and language of the sea island black
people who worked these plantations.
Included in this tour
will be views of rich
farmland and forests. We
will travel past St. John’s
Episcopal Church and the
Angel Oak, a 1,400-yearold live oak tree.
The highlight of this
tour will be a stop at
the Charleston Tea Plantation, the only tea plantation in
the United States. Over 100 years ago, tea planters brought
their finest tea bushes from China, India and Ceylon to the
South Carolina Lowcountry. Now the descendants of those
very plants, nestled on this serene island, are thriving. We
will tour the tea factory and ride back into the working area
of the farm. We will finish this tour with a visit to the gift
shop, which is stocked with many interesting souvenirs you
may want to take home, including the American Classic Tea
produced here.
Taking one of the most beautiful routes in the South
Carolina Lowcountry, we will also travel to Irvin House
Vineyards. Canopied with ancient liver oak trees, the road
to Wadmalaw Island traverses lush marshland, lazy coastal
rivers and creeks, beautiful woods and the richest farmland
in South Carolina.
Away from the hustle and bustle of cities and towns, Irvin House Vineyards reaquaints you with the abundance the
earth offers. As you enter the gates, you will see neat rows
of muscadine vines. These vines bear fruit which is not only
delicious, but also excellent for your health. Upon arrival,
your hosts will introduce you to the muscadine and the
process used for making Irvin House wines. After you have
had the opportunity to soak up this country farm atmosphere, you will be treated to a wine tasting accompanied by
a lovely cheese presentation.
registration.
www.rvingwomen.org
Wednesday, September 24
A CHARLESTON WALK
8:45 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Stroll with your guide down lovely streets and lanes and
view the marvelous architecture of homes built more than
a century ago. Peek into the lush private gardens of this
quaint old city and breathe in the aroma of tea olive and
magnolia. During your walk, you will experience the relaxed
culture of this grand old city as you gaze at beautiful historic
homes and buildings which have graced this city for several
generations. We will also stroll past stately historic churches,
the Dock Street Theater, the Old Exchange, Provost Dungeon and many other historic points of interest. After your
walking tour, you can spend time enjoying a leisurely lunch
on your own and doing some shopping and browsing in Old
City Market.
registration.
Thursday, September 25
A GHOSTLY NIGHT ON THE TOWN
5:45 a.m. to 11 p.m.
On Thursday, when night descends on Charleston and
shrouds the sky with a layer of inky darkness, we will begin
a ghostly walking tour of the city.
This city by the sea has survived wars, hurricanes, fires
and earthquakes. Where sadness and natural disasters
abound, so do members of the spirit world. Throughout this
city’s rich history, there have been stories about her resident
ghosts, and many Charlestonians firmly believe they do
exist. Some of these ghosts are meek and mild; others, like
Lavinia Fisher who murdered countless people, are still terrifying the good citizens who live here. On this ghost walk,
your guide and expert storyteller will entertain you with traditional tall tales and may even disclose information about
more recent sightings.
We will meet at 5:45 p.m. at the Exchange Park front
gate for transportation and go in to Charleston for d
inner
on your own and some free time for exploration. Our
ghostly tour will begin at 9 p.m. Tour requires a minimum
of 25 attendees or may be cancelled.
Cost: $43 per person. Tour cost includes round-trip
transportation to Charleston.
registration.
Chapter News
Arizona Chapter
Balancing Acts
Balancing is one of the key issues
in our lives as RVing women, and as
a board member of this chapter, I am
happy to say that is exactly what this
chapter has—balance. We come from
all walks of life, so therefore we need
something for everyone.
So in February we hosted our
infamous laid-back rally at Caballo
Loco near Tucson. The keys to this
rally, above and beyond our great
hostesses Annie Boisvert and Barbara
Clark, were beautiful skies, sunsets,
stargazing and, most of all, the sound
of silence. Not to worry, we did have
opportunities to become gold diggers, trade books and play a little
pool and nickel and dime poker.
March brought us to our Saint
Patrick’s Day rally in Laughlin,
Nevada. Our hosts Jolene Greeley
and Lori Hagge and their helpers
Nita Howard and Maureen Hennessy
kept us moving—starting with
goody bags, a seafood buffet, champagne breakfast, a drawing where
everyone was a winner—and now
let’s take a breath and think about
our four-legged friends—they got a
walk down to the river and played
in the water. The beat then goes on
with our Ellen/ Oprah interview and
once more a new member—Pennie
Kubla—was chosen. Needless to say,
she was a great sport!
One of the highlights of this rally
was hearing Robin Merrill, author of
“Some Like It Red Hot,” talk about
her adventures. She was brought to
us via one of our original members—
thank you! Another highlight was
a Chateau Cardboard wine tasting.
Last, but not least, was our very own
slam-dunk St. Patty’s Day potluck.
Everyone outdid themselves.
April’s rally at Lee’s Ferry was a
fantastic outdoor adventure. Betty
Tunstall made good on her promise
that we would enjoy a full moon
rising over the vermillion cliffs, intricate mazes of canyons and delicate
arches and massive rock monoliths.
Activities included fly fishing
lessons, guided hikes to breathtaking sites, kayaking or canoeing the
Colorado River, and listening to
speakers talk about condors and the
Lee’s Ferry area.
Plans of an authentic Navajo
night and a rubber ducky race had to
be adjusted somewhat; however we
certainly know how to adjust to any
given situation, and we did! A special
thanks to our hostess Betty Tunstall
The Cascadia Scooter Gang (Jo, Judy, Laurie, Shay and Lori) took credit for terrorizing
the Mossyrock campground, site of the Cascadia Chapter rally in May.
Photo: Jo Schilling
www.rvingwomen.org
and her team, which included Sharon Dewey and Donna Hutchison.
And for jumping in and helping,
thanks to Stephanie Tisdale and all
the helpers at this rally!
To top off the versatility and
balance in our rallies, in May we cohosted a rally with the SoCALjourners.
Led by Linda Brown and Barbara
Roeder, this rally was an absolute
ball. We did it all—from education
to dancing in the streets, sharing a
great sit down dinner, beating up
piñata’s and so much more.
A big thank you to SoCALjourners for all your hard work, and hugs
from across the border! Balance is a
good thing!—Marilyn Teresi
Cascadia Chapter
Mossyrock, Washington
May 23–26: Our annual Mossyrock Memorial Day Weekend once
again proved to be the premiere
event of the season. Fortunately,
we had the extra day on Monday to
wrap things up for this jam-packed
weekend.
Kudos to weekend captains Linda
J., Mary N., Sue Ellen and Norma.
It all came off without a hitch. You
women are amazing!
There was loads of work to do,
and lots of hands to help get it done.
Thanks go to Hi There Girls Carol and
Linda A. and Bandana Divas Bonnie,
Mary S., Miriam, Diane D., Beemer
and Alice.
As rigs began to roll in on Friday
afternoon, several early-arriving
members were seen returning from
the lake carrying Ziploc bags full
of fresh-caught trout. Fishing trips
occurred throughout the weekend.
Sue Ellen and Norma put together
the Friday night mixer. The name of
a famous woman was pinned to the
back of each member who then had
to ask questions of others in order
to guess the name she was assigned.
Games of Texas Hold ‘em, Rumicube,
and Mexican Train followed.
A board meeting was held on Saturday morning to finalize changes to
the chapter bylaws.
CHAPTER NEWS
The centerpiece activity, the
annual Cascadia Triathlon, was exceptionally exciting for participants
and spectators alike. The events once
again featured horseshoes, bocce
ball, and Cascadia (or ladder) Golf.
Competition was stiff. Scores were so
close that two playoff matches had
to be held.
In the first playoff Saturday
evening, Diane M. and Nancy (The
Rainbow Girls) met Jo and Judy (The
Dixie Chicks). The match ended in
a squeaker victory for The Rainbow
Girls who finished in fourth place
overall. (The Dixie Chicks declared
themselves losers.)
The real playoff match for first
and second place was held on Sunday with Diane D. and Beemer vs.
defending champs Cheryl and Barb.
In a pressure-filled game of Cascadia
Golf, challengers Diane and Beemer
took an early lead and held it until
the last two frames when the defending champs came back to tie
the match. The challengers pulled
ahead again and with the last throw
reigning champ Cheryl’s toss spun
around the crossbar and fell to the
ground for a 1-point defeat. Congratulations to the new champions
of the Cascadia Triathlon: Diane D.
and Beemer!
Saturday night brought everyone
back to the clubhouse for a dinner of
soup, salad and dessert. Afterwards,
a large group gathered around the
campfire for songs led by Candy,
Annie and Shay. We enjoyed a glorious sunset followed by a sudden
downpour of rain, which chased the
singers and musicians to their rigs.
Linda J. and Mary N., with help
from the divas, prepared a delicious
French toast breakfast on Sunday
morning.
Masanee Brown, a member of
both the Oregon and Cascadia chapters of RVW, presented a talk Sunday
morning entitled “Keep the Adventure Going – How to Find Out What
You Really Want.” The room was
packed for her presentation. Masanee
spoke about how our perceptions of
www.rvingwomen.org
each item. Purchases totaled almost
$1,800—just shy of last year’s recordsetting figure. Thanks to everyone
who donated auction items and to
all who placed winning bids!
Monday morning coffee was followed by rig christenings and reluctant goodbyes.—Jo Schilling
Finding out what you really want was the
topic of a presentation made by Masanee
Brown at the Cascadia Chapter rally held
in Mossyrock.
Photo: Jo Schilling
an event change, depending on the
context. She demonstrated a breathing technique designed to enhance
mental clarity and to focus one’s
energy and attention.
Members spent the day Sunday
at activities such as hiking, kayaking, fishing, lunching in town and
sightseeing in the area.
Sunday evening’s dinner featured
baked potatoes with a huge variety of
toppings to choose from, plus salads
and desserts. Dinner was followed by
the chapter’s traditional honoring of
military veterans.
After a dishwashing and dogwalking break, we reconvened for
the annual fundraising auction as
called by Sue Ellen. Elaine played
the role of Vanna by showcasing
Florida Chapter
Nokomis, Florida
April 17–20: Florida offers an
abundance of camping opportunities and with that quantity comes
variety. In April, 30 women in 21
rigs enjoyed the leisure and conveniences of a full-service Encore park
in Nokomis.
We took advantage of all the amenities and facilities. Our (obviously
experienced and capable) hosts, HJ
Cougan and Carol Welch provided
a schedule of morning and afternoon gatherings to bring the group
together. The brainteaser games and
the shuffleboard and putt-putt golf
offered a bit of competition and an
abundance of laughs. On Saturday
morning, HJ and Carol produced
the wands and liquids to send big
and small bubbles floating in the
soft morning sunlight as we were
encouraged to “play” and send our
spoken or silent intentions and memorials aloft. It was a very novel and
poignant activity.
Saturday’s potluck was initiated by a rendition of “God Bless
America” and concluded with an
CHAPTER NEWS
Chapter News / continued from page 37
equally heartfelt chorus of “Happy
Birthday” for our April celebrants.
As always, the weekend went
by much too quickly. There always
seems to be that one intended visit or
conversation that never happens. So
next month, we’ll do it again, but it’s
hard to imagine that it can be done
better than it was in April.—Arlene
Dawson
Florida Chapter
Naples, Florida
May 15–18: We gathered in
Naples for our May event, drawing
32 friends in 20 rigs. Our hosts Patty
Petruff and Joella McGaw started the
weekend off with a scavenger hunt
list. For three days we heard, “Do you
have the mystery item? Did you find
a cocktail umbrella?” etc. etc., but
there did not seem to be much sharing going on! Despite concentrated
effort, only four participants successfully completed the entire list.
On Friday, several members enjoyed a pontoon boat ride around
the islands of the west end of Everglades National Park, followed by
lunch at a waterfront, rustic seafood
restaurant. Others took advantage
of sightseeing and shops in Naples.
As always in Florida at this time of
year, the park swimming pool was
a common meeting place for many
attendees.
On Saturday morning, HJ Cougan
and Carol Welch treated the group
to donuts, followed by a discussion
of estate planning, trusts, living wills
and healthcare surrogate designations, presented by one of Patty’s law
partners. The many questions from
the group indicated much interest
in these topics.
We met again, later in the day,
for our traditional potluck. As the
prerogative of the host, Patty called
the order in which each table approached the feast and, after our
newcomers and guests, she elected to
give priority to those wearing their
nametags. Good idea, Patty!
Thanks to all in attendance, this
was a great rally!—Arlene Dawson
FreeWheelers Chapter
Bodega Bay, California
May 2–4: Thirty-three rigs gathered for our May outing at Porto
Bodega RV Park. Under clear (mostly)
but quite windy skies—small dogs
had to be securely tied—some hardy
souls ventured out Saturday and Sunday to explore the area, the ocean,
the bay, the harbor, do some bird
watching, check out various restaurants in the area and the wonderful
barbecued oysters at Tony’s and
help the economy by purchasing
various wind socks, kites and flags.
I am sure salt water taffy folks also
noted an increase in their sales for
the weekend.
Saturday morning, the biscuits
and gravy breakfast potluck crowd
outdid themselves again. The wind
settled down for a few hours. We
took advantage of that and had
breakfast outside. The sausage gravy
was delicious, the biscuits light and
fluffy, the bacon and sausage just
right, the assorted egg dishes were
nicely done—and what wonderful
fresh fruit dishes!
Our Cinco de Mayo potluck Saturday night also was a wonderful
success. We had quite an array of
Mexican casseroles. All the dishes
disappeared quickly. What great
cooks these FreeWheelers are! Loved
the sombreros, too! A special thank
you to those who helped clean up.
Most left for home after a leftovers breakfast on Sunday, but a
lucky few were able to spend another
day at the park. It seems to help with
the cost of gas if you can come early
and stay late—or so I tell myself. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves
for whatever length of time they
were able to stay.—Doris Aab
Great Lakers Chapter
Middlebury, Indiana
May 18–21: For our first outing
of 2008, the pets—five dogs and six
cats—outnumbered and outfoxed
the humans—nine of them. We
thought we had two different cats
escape rigs, but after much calling and underbrush searching, we
discovered that each cat had found
a new hidey-hole. Our mascot,
Buddy, really should consider a name
change—Houdini or Buddy Houdini.
The dogs were feeling quite smug for
a change.
A few of us met a day early, so
we decided to have a great Sunday
breakfast at the Mediterranean Garden followed by a short road trip to
Elkhart to visit the New York Central
Railroad Museum. Maybe we need
to resurrect a few of these trains to
offset gas prices. By late afternoon,
everyone had gathered for finger
food in the meager warmth of the
waning sunshine.
On Monday, we went back to
Elkhart to visit the RV – Motorhome
Museum and Hall of Fame, a fascinating experience for RVers. A few
women went to Bontrager’s RV Surplus to check out items for their RVs.
Our potluck that evening, like our
finger food, was predominately great
vegetarian food—not planned.
Tuesday we spent time shopping
the Shipshewana Flea Market and
then had a family-style dinner at
Das Dutchman Essenhaus. All those
pies!
Both Monday and Tuesday evenings, the winds died down sufficiently to enjoy campfires, complements of Pat Bubel and Sue Wittig.
A special thanks goes to our hosts
Susan Trippet and Pat Bubel and
to our drivers Sandy Gauntlett and
Karen Lentz.—Susan Trippet.
MidAtlantic Chapter
Sponsor Board
The MidAtlantic Chapter has
introduced a Sponsor Board that
displays all the partners in business
that graciously supply the chapter
with products and services. These
donations go to the members as
prizes during our rallies. We proudly
display the board for all to see.
The Sponsor Board also boasts
the title of “Shop Here First,” which
our members refer to as a point-ofpurchase to their needs. We also put
product brochures and business cards
on our information table. When
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CHAPTER NEWS
making a purchase, we mention
where we saw the information.
Thank you is too little to say
for our sponsors. We will continue
to support them, and with great
appreciation.—Bonnie Simkins
MidAtlantic Chapter
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
April 25–27: This was our first
official Cabin Fever Weekend. Having the company of 47 women and
guests helped round off the best of
this rally. The weather was still brisk
at night and rain was forecast, but
that never stops us. The rain did hold
off on Saturday so we could explore
the area. As usual, the food was good
and abundant and the company at
its best.
Thanks to Meg, Lee and others,
there was a nice campfire on Friday
night. That is always a good time
to catch up and to also share camp
stories. Saturday was a free day to see
the sights and shop the outlets. Activities at the campsite included ladder ball and cards. An Amish vendor
came through the campground with
his horse and buggy to sell cakes, pies
and jarred goodies to the campers.
Saturday evening we had a potluck dinner with broasted chicken
as the main dish. The turkey chili
was a hit, as were the many other
dishes created.
For our Saturday breakfast, we
had creamed chipped beef on freshbaked biscuits from Lee, our kitchen
maven. Sunday’s breakfast included
light and fluffy pancakes and Amish
sausage. We all had a great time, and
we’re looking forward to coming
back to Lancaster for our Thanksgiving rally.—Bonnie Simkins
Nashville, Indiana
June 5–8: We came with rigs, but
we should have brought boats. We
had a 100-year-record flood while
we were there. Our campground was
high on a hill, but all exits out of
Nashville were under water. Evacuations were being carried out just
down the road from us.
The Log Cabin Tour was canceled
due to flooded roads, but we were
able to tour the Sock Factory. It was
a hit with everyone, and we even
received a free pair of socks. The
factory was started by a single mom
with five children. Now it is the
largest factory for making personalized socks, including our Pacers and
Colts. Following the tour, we went
to the Farmhouse Café, which served
delicious food flavored with fresh
herbs. We visited the nearby nursery
to enjoy all the flowers.
Even though we had floods and
unseasonably high temperatures, we
had a good time. It was great to get
together again with everyone—old
and new faces alike. There were quite
a few first timers, so as usual everyone helped get them a little more
educated and familiar with their rig.
The Saturday evening potluck was a
success and was followed by a root
beer float party.
After our hitch-up breakfast,
many brave souls ventured toward
home on the few roads that were
passable. They reported that they
had seen much devastation on the
way home. We’re happy to report
that everyone made it out safely. We
have great expectations of a good
rally next month.—Carol Miller
Saturday activities during the Oregon
Chapter rally in Salem included attending
the nearby Woodburn Tulip Festival.
Photo: Charlotte Norby
Oregon Chapter
Salem Oregon
April 11–13: Twenty-four members and guests attended our rally
at the Hee Hee Illattee RV Resort.
Everyone agreed this is an excellent
park with one of the best meeting
rooms we have experienced.
On Friday evening we had our
usual heavy appetizers followed by
a lively bingo session.
A Shop Here First Sponsor
Board introduced by the
MidAtlantic Chapter displays
the partners in business that
graciously supply the chapter
with products and services.
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CHAPTER NEWS
Several Oregon Chapter members took a
Sunday cruise on the Willamette Queen
Sternwheeler. Barbara Hicks took a turn
piloting.
Saturday morning began with a
continental breakfast followed by
our annual business meeting. Some
very healthy and positive discussions
occurred which will give our chapter
direction for this year as well as 2009.
Afterward, several members attended
the Tulip Festival in Woodburn.
Others toured Salem.
In the afternoon, a guest speaker
from Les Schwab made a presentation on maintenance of tires, batteries and shocks. I am sure he was
impressed with the members’ level
of knowledge and questions.
After the presentation, some
members visited an orchard to purchase locally grown products. We
gathered for a potluck dinner in the
evening, followed by card games.
Sunday we enjoyed a delicious
breakfast followed in the afternoon
with a cruise on the Willamette
Queen Sternwheeler.
We were very fortunate to have
warm sunny weather the entire
weekend. A great time was had by
all.—Dee Hamer
Oregon Chapter
Brookings, Oregon
May 16–19: We had 16 rigs and
30 attendees at this event., including
a lot of new faces. Many members
arrived a day early, on Thursday
night, which coincided with a
record-breaking heat wave, 100 plus
degrees—pretty darn hot for the
Oregon coast. The rest of the folks
cruised in on Friday. Several members came without their RV’s and
stayed in nearby lodging.
Fulltimers Maureen Carryn and
Jan Kuderna joined us and offered
several interesting stories and tips
Doris Westoby, Betty Evers and Dee Hamer provided instrumentals for the sing-alongs
that finished off busy Oregon Chapter rally events in May.
Photo: Tamra Swerdlik
about work, volunteering and life
on the road. We welcomed guests
from the SOCALjourners Chapter,
Irene Stevens and Cooper Gallegos,
and returning members Betty Vales,
Peggy Ervin, Dixie Ever and Joyce
Pickens. It was great to see them.
Food and camaraderie was the order
of the evening with games and lots
of catching up on everyone’s news.
Evenings cooled off 30 degrees—
tolerable sleeping temperature for
the few who did not have air conditioned rigs.
Oregon Chapter members christened
several new RVs at their rally in May.
Photo: Tamra Swerdlik
Gina was surprised by a happy
birthday chorus during breakfast
Saturday morning. After breakfast,
an education presentation was provided by Henderson’s Line-up, which
is located in Grants Pass. Rob, from
Henderson’s, answered questions, offered great discount coupons and serviced some rigs at the park. Mobile
service is a real convenience.
L o c a l RV W m e m b e r D o r i s
Westoby escorted some attendees
to Crescent City for an afternoon of
sightseeing and visits to the Marine
Mammal Rehabilitation Center and
Ocean World. Others kicked back,
had fun at the local casino, or walked
on the beach with their dogs.
Saturday evening was the big
event—a salmon feed provided by
the RV park and cooked by Roger, the
very hospitable park manager. The
salmon and member-provided side
dishes came together to satisfy all.
A door prize drawing was held and
new member Pat Peck from Central
Point, Oregon won the donated Hose
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CHAPTER NEWS
Buddy. All attendees went home
with a nice gift, some with two.
As the evening cooled, we retired
to the deck to enjoy a campfire and
sing songs. Betty and Dee played guitar and one-person rhythm section
Doris provided the orchestration.
Singers, hummers, foot stompers and
clappers rounded out the night’s entertainment. You had to be there!
Another community continental
breakfast was enjoyed on Sunday,
and we bid farewell to a few folks.
Many enjoyed another great day
at the beach, taking in Azalea Park
or beautiful Harris Beach. Some
ventured further into the national
forests and up the beautiful Chetco
River into Loeb State Park. It was a
glorious day for those explorations.
Twenty folks got together that evening at a local seafood eatery for
some great food.
A christening ceremony was held
to celebrate the new motorhome acquisitions of Shirley and Gina, Ruby,
Betty and Peggy, and Pat. We wish
them all safe travels in their new
rigs. More merriment ensued in the
clubhouse after the event. Laughter
reverberated throughout the park
until a very late hour.
Monday saw the last of those
staying over disburse to make the
trek home or move on to other adventures. This was a great event with
good friends, good food and good
times. Please join us in the fun at our
next event.—Tamra Swerdlik
SoCALjourners Chapter
Temecula, California
April 11–13: What a wonderful
weekend we had at our third annual
Try-athlon at Lake Skinner. Over 50
women in 32 rigs had a happy camping weekend with sunshine falling
on our shoulders, peace and quiet
and lots of fun. Our rally hostesses
Carol Brownlee, Chris Elliott, Cyndy
La Wanda Pennels and Jan Kuderna try
their luck at the SoCALjourners Try-athlon
slingers event.
The SoCALjourners Try-athlon included
slingers and washers. Competitors
Sue Campbell, at slingers, and Arlene
Jeanneret, at washers, show how it’s done.
Photo: Bev Laing
Guy, Donna Abrego and Irene Harris
went out of their way to make sure
everyone was welcomed, squared
away and well fed. We had lots of
good food, both at the Friday night
welcome gathering and at the Saturday night potluck, as well as sharing
fruit and granola bars at our morning
gatherings.
The Try-athlon games were the
highlight, of course. The games consisted of bocce ball, slingers (ladder
golf) and washers. Participants were
assigned teams, and each team tried
each activity two times. Winners
were announced at the potluck dinner, with the prizes being miniatures
of each game.
All attendees were also treated
to a rousing game of large-group
Pokeno, with nickels and markers
flying around the tables.
Evenings found us around the
large pit campfire exchanging tall
and short traveling tales, repair experiences and other wonderful stories.
The stargazing was terrific and the
silence was deafening. Thanks to
everyone who participated and to
our great hostesses.—Bev Laing
Irene Harris, Alice Kuchinskas, Arlene
Strango and Chris Elliott compete in the
SoCALjourners Try-athlon bocce ball event.
Photo: Bev Laing
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CHAPTER NEWS
Texas Ramblin’ Roses Chapter
Hempstead, Texas
April 2–6: Our Hempstead Rally
was held at the Red Oak Ranch RV
Park. We chose the location and the
dates to be able to enjoy the beautiful
bluebonnets and other wildflowers
that bloom so prolifically in early
spring. The terrain in this part of
Texas is gently rolling hills, with
lots of trees and ranches. Looking
out over a hillside covered in bluebonnets is an absolutely breathtaking experience. Seeing such beauty
makes it easy to understand why the
bluebonnet is our state flower.
Rally hosts June Dossat and Gayle
Pierce had a great time planning
the rally. There were 55 members of
RVW in 32 RVs at the rally, and we
all enjoyed lots of good food and
laughter. Several of the attendees
were from other areas of the country.
We always love to have women from
other chapters participate in our rallies. If you ever come to a Ramblin’
Bluebonnets, the Texas state flower, were
in full bloom when Texas Ramblin’ Roses
members gathered in Hempstead for their
April rally.
Photo: Gayle Pierce
Roses rally, be prepared to get a warm
welcome and lots of hugs!
Each evening, we had a mix and
mingle followed by a meal, then
games and socializing. On Friday
evening, we had a potluck dinner
that featured a wonderful grilled
brisket provided by June. Saturday
evening, we were fortunate to have
a local Hempstead restaurant chef
cater a meal at the rally hall. What
a treat! None of us had to cook, and
the food was delicious.
After the meal on Saturday evening, we recognized all the attendees with April birthdays (Arden
Eversmeyer, Gayle Pierce, Janice
Villyard, Rene Gray, and Susan
Mooney). The rest of us sang a fun
version (by Julie Andrews) of “My
Favorite Things” to Rene who, as
the youngest of the birthday group,
needed to be educated on what life
has in store for her body! We had a
good time laughing at the lyrics.
On Thursday morning, several
of the attendees participated in a
guided birding tour of the Brazos Valley Flyway. Friday afternoon, others
attended a docent-guided tour of the
International Performing Arts Institute at Festival Hill, which features
a uniquely constructed performance
hall that has amazing acoustics for
musical events.
There were lots of on-your-own
local area attractions to visit. Several of the women enjoyed visiting
the Antique Rose Emporium and
the Monastary, where you can see
Miniature Horses. In addition, there
were visits to Washington on the
Brazos, the birthplace of Texas, the
Brazos Star Gift Shop in Chappell
Hill (owned by member Mary Louise
Young), and the Lavender Farm.
The highlight for most of the
rally attendees was the beauty they
saw on the wildflower trails around
the area. And, of course, no day trip
was complete without a stop at the
Blue Bell Creamery in Brenham for a
tour and sampling of the wonderful
ice cream.
I personally had an incredible
experience during the rally. RVing
During their April rally, members of the
Texas Ramblin’ Roses Chapter visited the
Blue Bell Creamery in Brenham.
Photo: Gayle Pierce
Women members are an amazing
group of caring, supportive people.
Our RVW creed focuses on providing
a network of support. Even knowing
that, I was still overwhelmed with all
the loving care and assistance I received when I became ill with stomach flu just before the rally began.
What a wonderful group of women
this is! They not only pitched in
to help June with rally host duties
that I was unable to perform, but a
few of them came over to the site
in Chappell Hill where I was when
I became ill, cared for me, brought
me prescriptions and food, and
eventually drove me in my rig over
to the rally park so they could keep
a close watch on me in case I needed
anything. I owe a special thanks to
June Dossat, Jo Anne Daigre, Barbara
Ryan, Arden Eversmeyer, Cindy
Winburn, and Janice Villyard—along
with all of the other women present
who came by my rig daily to see how
I was progressing. With that kind of
care and support, you just can’t help
but get well!
In mid-October 2009, the national
RVW convention will be held in San
Antonio. Our chapter is excited about
being the host chapter and treating
ya’ll to some Texas-style hospitality.
So, mark your calendars for October
14 to 18, 2009, bring your boots and
jeans, and come on down to have
some fun!—Gayle Pierce
www.rvingwomen.org
CHAPTER CONTACTS
When you join RVW, you connect with RVing Women all over the USA, Canada and Mexico.
You are welcome to participate in chapter events wherever you travel.
Contact these chapter leaders to find out about chapter activities and membership opportunities.
ARIZONA CHAPTER
ARIZONA DAY TRIPPERS CHAPTER
Arizona – Adjacent States – Snowbirds
Seasonal Outings – Phoenix Area
Lanny McBrown
[email protected]
Marilyn Teresi
[email protected]
(602) 377-1297
Kay Houchin
[email protected]
Judy Bozman
[email protected]
Chapter Website:
www.rvw-arizona.org
CASCADIA CHAPTER
FLORIDA CHAPTER
Washington – British Columbia
Florida
Dorene Thomas
[email protected]
Arlene Dawson
[email protected]
Canadian Contacts:
Lee Simmons and Julie Hinton
[email protected]
(604) 988-4464
Chapter Website:
www.cascadiarvw.com
Connie Anderson
[email protected]
Chapter Website:
www.flrvw.org
FREEWHEELERS CHAPTER
Northern California and Northern Nevada
Jeri McLees
[email protected]
FULLTIMERS CHAPTER
Bringing Fulltimers together from all areas
of the United States, Canada, and Mexico
Bonnie O’Loughlin
[email protected]
Gina Casey
[email protected]
(952) 412-1798
Chapter Website:
www.rvwfreewheelers.org
www.rvingwomen.org
CHAPTER CONTACTS
GREAT LAKERS CHAPTER
Michigan – Illinois – Indiana
Ohio – Pennsylvania
LYTE HEARTS CHAPTER
Wisconsin – Minnesota – Illinois
Iowa – Nebraska – Missouri
Sandy Ferris
[email protected]
(618) 498-1721
Nancy Wurm
[email protected]
(313) 818-9263
Cindy Preuss
[email protected]
(920) 867-4466
Pat Bubel
[email protected]
(734) 669-9046
Jeanne Carter
[email protected]
(414) 352-8341
Chapter Website:
www.greatlakersrvw.org
MID-AMERICA CHAPTER
MIDATLANTIC CHAPTER
Kansas – Oklahoma – Missouri
Arkansas – Illinois
District of Columbia – Pennsylvania – New Jersey
Maryland – Delaware – Virginia – West Virginia
Kentucky – Tennessee – North Carolina
South Carolina – Georgia – Alabama
Norma Cartwright
[email protected]
Bonnie Simkins
[email protected]
Lee Ensor
[email protected]
Chapter Website:
www.midatlanticrvw.com
NORTHEAST NETWORK
Maine – New Hampshire – Vermont – New York
Massachusetts – Rhode Island – Connecticut
Ontario – Quebec – New Brunswicka – Nova Scotia
OHIO RIVER VALLEY CHAPTER
Michigan – Illinois – Indiana – Ohio
Pennsylvania – Kentucky – Tennessee
Pat Saxton
[email protected]
Carol Miller
[email protected]
(317) 431-5171
Teddie Grayson
[email protected]
Chapter Website:
www.nennavigator.org
Tammy Haley
[email protected]
(317) 250-4222
Chapter Website:
www.ohiorvw.com
www.rvingwomen.org
CHAPTER CONTACTS
When you join RVW, you connect with RVing Women all over the USA, Canada and Mexico.
You are welcome to participate in chapter events wherever you travel.
Contact these chapter leaders to find out about chapter activities and membership opportunities.
OREGON CHAPTER
ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHAPTER
Oregon
Wyoming – Colorado – New Mexico
Dee Hamer
[email protected]
Billie Abbott
[email protected]
Linda Waterman
[email protected]
(541) 756-3808
Chapter Website:
www.oregonrvingwomen.org
Chapter Phone:
(541) 997-0886
Shirley Mahan
[email protected]
SOCALJOURNERS CHAPTER
Jo Stanbrough
[email protected]
Chapter Website:
www.rmrvw.org
TEXAS RAMBLIN’ ROSES CHAPTER
Texas
Southern California
Marge Le Claire
[email protected]
(941) 400-8554
Bev Laing
[email protected]
(951) 237-1583
(951) 676-5384
Linda Brown
[email protected]
(760) 745-9452
Scottie Scott
[email protected]
Chapter Website:
www.txrvw.org
Judy Taylor
[email protected]
(818) 986-7542
We need chapter leaders in Utah, Nevada, Idaho,
Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Mississippi, and
Louisiana.
If you would like to take advantage of this opportunity
to help women RVers in these areas get together more
often, please contact the RVW office.
Call (888) 557-8464 or
(480) 671-6226 or email
[email protected].
We’ll give you lots of
support to help your
chapter get started.
www.rvingwomen.org
SOLO TRAVELERS CHAPTER
Bringing Solo Travelers together from all areas
of the United States, Canada, and Mexico
Carol Bamesberger
[email protected]
Beverly Barnes
[email protected]
(831) 460-9345
Some of the most respected RV consumer clubs have joined together to support your right to park on private businesses’ parking lots overnight under the
following code of conduct:
Industry-Sanctioned Code of Conduct
1.
Stay one night only!
2.
Obtain permission from a qualified individual.
3.
Obey posted regulations.
4.
No awnings, chairs, or barbecue grills.
5.
Do not use hydraulic jacks on soft surfaces (including asphalt).
6.
Always leave an area cleaner than you found it.
7.
Purchase gas, food, or supplies as a form of thank you, when feasible.
8.
Be safe! Always be aware of your surroundings and leave if you feel unsafe.
If your plans include touring the area, staying for more than one night, or necessitate
conduct not within the code, please relocate to a local campground.
It’s the right thing to do!
Most of the complaints lodged regarding RV parking on business parking lots have
to do with aesthetics and perceived abuse of the privilege. There are a variety of
competing interests that were balanced to arrive at this industry-sanctioned code of
conduct. As you can see, the Code of Conduct is nothing more than an RVers’ “Good
Neighbor” policy.
Not following the code has serious consequences and is detrimental to the rights of
all RVers. Already, some municipalities have passed ordinances to prohibit parking on
private business property overnight.
Please do not take offense to this letter; it is only provided as a reminder that RVers
must be perceived as good neighbors, or there will be more pressure to institute state,
county, and local ordinances to prohibit parking on private business property.
We wish you safe and happy travels,
F
Overnight parking etiquette
(RVers’ Good Neighbor Policy)
B QFF
TD
T
RVERS’ GOOD NEIGHBOR POLICY
Dear Fellow RVers,

S
W D VC
M
094-0207
www.rvingwomen.org
DESTINATIONS
A Quest for Apple Pie
I got a hot tip about great apple pie.
I was staying at the Salton Sea and the
consensus at the RV park was that Julian
had the best apple pie around.
Julian, California is a gold-rush town
dating from the late 1800s. Most of the
buildings on Main Street have been restored, or rebuilt after the inevitable fires,
and are now homey inns or specialty
shops. Julian occupies a verdant valley
high above the desert floor of AnzaBorrego State Park.
It was a mere 70 miles from Salton
City, so why not go check it out?
A bonus to the trip was to be Dudley’s
Bakery in the town of Santa Ysabel, just
seven miles past Julian.
“Get me a loaf of apple-date bread
and one of garlic bread at Dudley’s,”
said Ruthie, an octogenarian, as Maureen
and I pulled out of the RV park. We had
our orders.
Most of the drive was through the
desert of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park,
on California highway 78. The desert
has a unique beauty, but after leaving
the park, we began to climb up into the
Vallecito Mountains. The winding, twisty
road took us higher and higher up hillsides of green chaparral in stark contrast
to the dry desert floor below.
The road swooped down into a high
mountain valley, populated by numerous apple orchards and vineyards.
article and photos by Jan Kuderna
The thought of fresh apple pie made
from local apples made my mouth
water.
In Julian, we parked the truck and
strode down Main Street, on our quest for
apple pie. We had our choice of Mom’s
Bakery, the Julian Café and Bakery or
the Julian Pie Company. In the interests
of equitable reporting I considered trying all three, but finally decided on the
Julian Pie Company. I had the natural
apple pie, made with sweet apples and
apple cider, no added sugar. Cinnamon
ice cream was the perfect topping for it.
My partner in culinary delights had the
Dutch apple pie with vanilla ice cream.
I can truly say they were both outstanding. Each had a tender flaky crust loaded
with apples.
The Julian Pie Company picks the
apples from their own 17,000-tree
orchard, which Keith and Liz Smothers
purchased in 1988. Liz had been working
as an apple peeler in another pie shop but
wanted her own shop where her recipes
and creativity could emerge.
Liz attributes her love of pie baking to her mother. “One of my fondest
memories is standing on a box beside my
mother putting leftover pie dough in a
metal jar lid to bake my pie” Her creativity is evident in the Julian Pie Company
Apple Cookbook: 177 pages of recipes,
every one of them using apples.
Julian’s Main Street is lined with homey inns and specialty shops. The Julian fall apple
harvest takes place from mid-September through October. For more information about
places referenced in this article, visit www.julianca.com and www.dudleysbakery.com.
www.rvingwomen.org
I’m sure the other pie shops in town
are just as good, since the secret is in the
apples. The rich soil of the valley and
the cool autumn weather produce sweet,
flavorful apples of all varieties.
With happy bellies, we drove seven
miles further to Santa Ysabel to find Dudley’s Bakery. As we passed through the
tiny town of Wynola, I saw the familiar
lion logo of King Leo Confections. The
brakes screeched and the tires squealed
as I made a quick turn into the parking
lot. My Mom bought a tin of peppermint
sticks every Christmas.
We entered the store and were
instantly transformed into the proverbial kids in a candy store. We wandered
around and examined each confection,
from dozens of flavors of old-fashioned
candy sticks to hand-made chocolates.
Finally, our adult tastes took over and we
emerged with some dark chocolate goodies. We felt justified since dark chocolate
is now being touted as a health food
containing antioxidants.
We went on to Santa Ysabel, where
Dudley’s Bakery loomed greyly on the
right. Dudley’s Bakery (open Wednesday
through Sunday) offered nineteen different types of bread, as well as a case full of
pastries and sweet rolls. Once again, we
had to look at everything and debate the
relative merits of German rye bread to
Western wheat. We finally bought loaves
of apple-date, garlic, Irish potato, and
rosemary-olive oil. Ruthie would not be
disappointed, and neither were we.
Jan Kuderna is a full-time RVer and freelance writer. This article is also appearing
in the Edmonton (Alberta) Journal.
CALENDAR PREVIEW
JULY 2008
1–15
Estes Park, Colorado
Mid-America Chapter
2–10
Calgary Stampede Rally
Fantasy RV Tours/Creative World Travel
11–13
Soda Springs, California
11–13
Egg Harbor, New Jersey
MidAtlantic Chapter
18–20
Castle Rock, Washington
Cascadia Chapter
18–20
Niles, Michigan
18–20
Sweet Home, Oregon
Oregon Chapter
24–27
Dunedin, Florida
Florida Chapter
25–Sept 3
Alaska Wildlife Adventure Fantasy RV Tours/Creative World Travel
Lafayette, Indiana
31–Aug 3
AUGUST 2008
1–3
Groveland, California
15–17
Surrey, British Columbia
Cascadia Chapter
14–17
Silver Lake, Michigan
15–17
Diamond Lake, Oregon
Oregon Chapter
28–31
Crystal River, Florida
Florida Chapter
SEPTEMBER 2008
5–7
Marysville, California
12–14
Charleston, Oregon
Oregon Chapter
19–21
Hoodsport, Washington
Cascadia Chapter
19–22
Solo Travelers Chapter
24–28
National RVW Convention
OCTOBER 2008
3–5
Sutherlin, Oregon
Oregon Chapter
10-12
Plymouth, California
16–19
Ocala, Florida
Florida Chapter
16–19
Marshalls Creek, Pennsylvania MidAtlaantic Chapter
17–19
Lynden, Washington
Cascadia Chapter
17–19
San Antonio, Texas
24–28
Parker, Arizona
Arizona Chapter
See page 52 for contact information and detailed descriptions of these events.
Updates to event descriptions are posted at www.rvingwomen.org.
www.rvingwomen.org
CALENDAR PREVIEW
NOVEMBER 2008
8–11
Oceano, California
SoCALjourners Chapter
13–17
Safford, Arizona
Arizona Chapter
13–16
Mims, Florida
Florida Chapter
14–16
Bethel Island, California FreeWheelers Chapter
14-16
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
MidAtlantic Chapter
13–16
Onalaska, Texas
DECEMBER 2008
4–8
Mesa, Arizona
Arizona Chapter
4–7
Sebring, Florida
Florida Chapter
5–7
Duncan Mills, California FreeWheelers Chapter
4–7
Conroe, Texas
28–Jan 2
Rose Parade Rally
JANUARY 2009
22–25
Kissimmee, Florida
Florida Chapter
FEBRUARY 2009
12–15
Vero Beach, California
Florida Chapter
MARCH 2009
12–15
Fort Worth, Texas
APRIL 2009
4–6
Jackson, California
MAY 2009
7–10
Smith Point, Texas
JUNE 2009
4–7
Angels Camp, California
SEPTEMBER 2009
12–Oct. 9
www.rvingwomen.org
Western National Parks Tour
NATIONAL RALLIES & EVENTS
Fantasy RV Tours and Creative World Travel
6-DAY ROSE PARADE RALLY
December 28, 2008 – January 2, 2009
Kick off the New Year by enjoying Rose Parade festivities you will hold in your memory for years to come.
Over a century of tradition and celebrations have shaped
the rich pageantry that makes the Tournament of Roses
Parade an event that is truly spectacular.
And the holidays? ’Tis the Season! Let the glory of
Christmas enchant you with a stirring blend of music
and entertainment. Celebrate the coming year with a
lively party and get acquainted with fellow RVers.
Then it’s off to famous Colorado Boulevard for the
Tournament of Roses Parade. Nothing else compares to
this dazzling display of workmanship and imagination.
Watching from reserved seats, you’ll get up close and
personal with spirited marching bands, high-stepping
horses and floral floats.
Initially staged in 1890, the parade has escalated
from a local tradition to a national observance. Most
of the floats require a year’s worth of construction, and
each one must be covered with flowers or such organic
material as leaves, seeds or bark. Each float boasts more
flowers than the average florist will use in five years.
Join us on this extraordinary rally where everything’s
coming up roses!
Tour details: Tour begins Dec. 28, 2008 and ends on
Jan. 2, 2009.
Tour price: $1,995 for two members in a rig; $1,395
for one member in a rig. Each additional person in a
rig is $795
Frequent Travel Credits: Earn $100 in Frequent
Travel Credits to use toward the price of your next Fantasy RV Tour or save your credits to earn a free trip.
For reservations and information, call
RVW tour ambassadors Joann Goldsmith
and Ann Matlock at (888) 270-7281,
email [email protected], call
Fantasy RV Tours at (800) 952-8496 or go
to www.fantasyrvtours.com.
www.rvingwomen.org
NATIONAL RALLIES & EVENTS
NGE
CHA
OTE
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ASE
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IN
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Fantasy RV Tours and Creative World Travel
28-DAY WESTERN NATIONAL PARKS TOUR
September 12 – October 9, 2009
See Ancient cliff dwellings, pueblo ruins and breathtaking canyons.
What a fantastic time of the year to view our diverse
and colorful western states national parks. The weather
is ideal and the larger crowds will have thinned. This
adventure will be your personal voyage of discovery as
we explore the majestic terrain that abounds within the
Colorado River basin.
Like frontier wagon trains, this odyssey rolls west
through the land of colorful legends and startling
landscapes. You will begin your journey at a premier
RV park at the winery in the desert in Pahrump, Nevada.
Experience sounds, sights, tastes and fragrances that are
one-of-a-kind at Nevada’s only winery.
You will play beneath towering pinnacles and overlook fantastic gorges at Zion and Bryce Canyon national
parks and explore by boat the vast waters and narrow
canyons of Lake Powell.
You will touch American history as well, following
the footsteps of Mesa Verde’s Anasazi cliff dwellers,
glimpsing the Navajo culture, and riding the narrow
gauge railroad through Butch Cassidy outlaw country.
www.rvingwomen.org
The caravan ends in Williams, Arizona, after exploring
the breathtaking vistas of the Grand Canyon, America’s
icon of the West.
Come and explore this sacred land’s solitude and expand your soul. See for yourself why the Indians consider
it the sacred land of their ancestors.
Tour details: Tour begins Sept. 12, 2009 from Pahrump, Nevada and ends Oct. 9, 2009 in Williams, Arizona. Limited to 22 rigs.
Tour price: $4,395 for two members in a rig; $3,295
for one person in a rig. Each additional person in a rig
is $1,995.
Early bird discount: Book by March 1, 2009 and
save $300.
Frequent Travel Credits: Earn $200 in Frequent
Travel Credits to use toward the price of your next Fantasy RV Tour or save your credits to earn a free trip.
How to register: For reservations and information,
call RVW tour ambassadors Joann Goldsmith and Ann
Matlock at (888) 270-7281, email annandjoann@aol.
com, call Fantasy RV Tours at (800) 952-8496 or go to
www.fantasyrvtours.com.
Calendar of events
As an RVW member, you are welcome to participate in chapter and national events wherever you go.
Space may be limited for some events, so please make reservations as far in advance as possible.
Please remember that RVW events are exclusively for women ages 18 and over.
JULY 2008
1–15 Mid-America Chapter: Estes Park, Colorado. Elk
Meadow Lodge and RV Resort. Please join us for
a great time. Stay the entire time or arrive and
depart as you wish. There is no wagonmaster
for this rally.
This park is a mile from the entrance to
Rocky Mountain National Park. There are free
shuttles to the park and the downtown shopping area. There is also a free hiker’s shuttle
inside the park. There is a pool and miniature
golf. We also may attend some concerts and do
some shopping. There will be a large fireworks
display on July 4.
Campsites are about $45/night (no rally
rate). Make reservations directly with the park.
Visit www.elkmeadowrv.com or call (800)
582-5342 or (970) 586-5342. This is a popular
park and it’s high season, so make reservations
as soon as possible.
If you decide to join us, please email Linda
Cartwright at [email protected]. We
will keep a list of those who plan to attend and
keep you informed as plans unfold.
2–10 Fantasy RV Tours and Creative World Travel:
9-day Calgary Stampede Rally. Calgary, Alberta,
Canada.
11–13 FreeWheelers Chapter: Soda Springs, California.
Cisco Grove Campground and RV Park (at
Donner Summit off Hwy 80). Bring firewood
for campfires and something to grill on Friday
night. We will have a salad bar potluck Saturday night.
Campsites are $34/night for full hookups
plus $2/night per dog. For information about
this park, go to www.ciscogrove.com.
Come One!
Come All!
To the Fun Raising
Fundraiser
Competition at
Convention 2008!
The deadline for reservations for this rally
was June 1. To find out if space is still available,
contact Colleen Buser at [email protected]
or Pat White at [email protected].
Hosts for this rally are Debbie Hurrie,
Margot Jordan, Colleen Buser and Pat White.
11–13 MidAtlantic Chapter: Egg Harbor, New Jersey.
Holly Acres RV Park. Leave all your cares
behind and get ready to enjoy a weekend at the
seashore. Close to Atlantic City and not too far
from Victorian Cape May, this area offers something for everyone. Historic Smithville Village,
the Lenox china factory and the Renault Winery are also nearby. We will have our famous
Bocce ball tournament, which will last all weekend. Miniature golf, volleyball and swimming
also are available at the campground.
For rally information, contact Ruth
Shiers at [email protected] or Katie Head at
[email protected].
18–20 Cascadia Chapter: Castle Rock, Washington.
Mount St. Helen’s RV Park. For information go
to www.cascadiarvw.com. To register, contact
Patty Lebbert at [email protected].
18–20 Great Lakers Chapter: Niles, Michigan. Spaulding Lake Campground. There is much to do in
this area. Choices include the College Hall of
Fame Parade, winery tours, antiquing, you-pick
farms, fishing and swimming. We will have a
Saturday potluck and a community breakfast
Sunday morning. Campsites are $27/night.
Rally leaders are Carole Goodwin at
[email protected] or 708 484-1988
and Pat Bubel at [email protected]. Please
contact Carole by June 30 for campsite reservations.
Amaze and dazzle other women with your hidden talent and
skills by winning one of our competitions. Invite friends to
sponsor you and contribute money to your pot. Win cash prizes
and go for the grand prize, which will be grand indeed!
Register now for Convention 2008, then mark your convention
schedule. Put this year’s Fun Raiser Fundraiser games high on
your list—to participate or to simply enjoy watching.
To register for Convention 2008, use the form on page 29 or go
to www.rvwconvention2008.com.
www.rvingwomen.org
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
18–20 Oregon Chapter: Sweethome, Oregon. Foster
Lake RV Park. Rally hosts: Peg Ralston and
Nancy Rockwell. We have 20 sites reserved.
Campsites are $28/night. The deadline for reservations is past, so please call Oregon Chapter
secretary Linda Waterman at tullylinda@msn.
com to find out about availability.
24–27 Florida Chapter: Dunedin, Florida. Dunedin
RV Resort. Visit the Florida Chapter website at
www.flrvw.org for more information about this
rally. Campsites are $25/night. For reservations,
call the resort at (727) 784-3719.
Directions: Dunedin RV Resort is located
at 2920 Alternate 19 North, Dunedin FL. From
the junction of Alt US-19N and SR586 (Curlew
Road), go north .5 miles on Alt US-19. The
resort is on the right.
Please also confirm your reservations with
rally hosts Linda Woodbury at runjumphi1@
verizon.net and Mary Ann Siniscalchi at
[email protected].
25–Sept 3 Fantasy RV Tours and Creative World Travel:
41-day Alaska Wild Adventure. Leaves from
Dawson Creek, British Columbia. Sorry, this
event is sold out.
www.rvingwomen.org
31–Aug 3 Ohio River Valley Chapter: Lafayette,
Indiana. Wolfe’s Leisure Time Campground.
This will be another fun rally. We will have
pitch-in meals and go out to eat. Evening
campfires will take place as well.
Area attractions include art museums, a
genealogy and research center, an antique car
museum, self-guided architectural tours, nature
parks, hiking trails and botanical gardens.
Activities we might enjoy as a group and on
your own include bicycling, canoeing, fishing,
golf and exploring Wolf Park. Howl Night with
the gray wolves is a lot of fun. And yes, this
area is home to Purdue University.
Campsites are $22/night with water and
electric, $25/night for full hookups. We are
holding 20 sites until June 30. To reserve,
contact Wolfe’s Leisure Time Campground at
(765) 589-8089 or [email protected]. Be sure
to mention that you are joining the RVW Ohio
River Valley Chapter. For more information
about the park, go to www.wolfpark.org.
For rally information, contact hosts Irene
Stevens and Linda Thornton at (317) 475-0390.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
AUGUST 2008
1–3
FreeWheelers Chapter: Groveland, California.
Yosemite Pines RV Resort. Activities this weekend will definitely include a trip to Yosemite,
about an hour from the RV park. Big rigs might
find the roads a bit challenging, so plan on carpooling. The park has shuttle busses available
to take us on two-hour narrated tram tours to
all the best spots. Thursday, Friday and Monday
will be better options for visiting the park. We’ll
reserve Saturday and Sunday to simply enjoy
the company of fellow FreeWheelers.
This will be a Tiki/Hawaiian-themed
weekend with fun activities and some very
cool prizes. Please bring out your most colorful shorts and shirts. A few appropriate rig
decorations might also be in order. Along with
our usual food-based activities, we will have a
karaoke contest and a fruit-and-veggie centerpiece contest. Create a clever centerpiece out
of produce, but make sure it doesn’t require
refrigeration—it has to last until voting is completed Saturday night.
Campsites are $35/night for Friday and
Saturday nights; $32.50/night for Thursday and
Sunday nights for full hookups. There are a few
pull-through sites; if you need a pull-through,
please indicate this on your sign-up sheet.
The cost per night includes a small amount
to defray the rental fee of the clubhouse and
kitchen. Cabins, tent cabins and yurts are also
available. These accommodations need to be
reserved directly with the park management,
but they will offer the 15 percent group discount if you mention that you are with the
FreeWheelers group. For information about this
park, go to www.yosemitepinesrv.com.
The sites are woodsy, mostly level and
terraced in many cases. The roads through the
campground are gentle gravel inclines or paved;
there are no steep roads and all the common
areas—like the clubhouse and store—are paved.
There is a great swimming pool, and WiFi and
cable TV are free. We will have exclusive use of
the clubhouse, which has air conditioning and
a great kitchen with a regular stove and oven
that is perfect for preparing biscuits and gravy.
Directions: Use www.mapquest.com for
directions to this park. (Yahoo and Google send
you out of the way.) Plan a stop in Groveland
at the Iron Door Saloon, California’s oldest continuously operating saloon. Recommended by
RVW members, the food in this establishment
is great and the atmosphere is not to be missed.
WINDSOR PLACE
RV & Park Home Community, Athens, Texas
WINDSOR PLACE is a newly constructed community designed for mature
adults to enjoy short term or a lifetime. Only a short drive from the Dalllas/Ft.
Worth Metroplex, residents discover a friendly small town atmosphere
amidst landscaped grounds and the majestic beauty of East Texas.
• Gated entry with residents having a
personal gate card
• 46 sites - All with full hook-ups including
city water & sewer, electric, phone and
cable/internet service
• Privacy fenced-in yards
• Covered parking for two vehicles
• Limited sites have canopy for RV to park
under to protect from sun & weather
Features & Amenities Include:
Take Advantage
our Grand Ope of
ning
Special!
• Pavilion
• Clubhouse
• 30, 50 & 100 amp service
• 44’ x 60’ homesites
• 16’x40’ concrete pad for RV or park home
• 8’ x 20’ storage building with full size
washer & dryer hook-ups
• Planned activities
WINDSOR PLACE RV & PARK HOME COMMUNITY
903-477-4001
1506 West Corsicana Street • Athens, Texas 75751
www.windsorplacerv.com • [email protected]
www.rvingwomen.org
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
The reservation deadline was July 1. For
availability, contact hosts Arlene Huffman and
Marlene Morrison at [email protected].
15–17 Cascadia Chapter: Surrey, British Columbia,
Canada. Dogwood Campground and RV Park.
Our annual trip north of the border will take us
to Surrey, a city with 5,400 acres of parks and
green space offering many recreational opportunities.
Campsites are $31.59/night (Canadian). A
first-night deposit is required.
For information go to www.cascadiarvw.
com. To register, contact Patty Lebbert at [email protected] by July 14.
14–17 Great Lakers Chapter: Silver Lake, Michigan.
Silver Lake RV Resort. We are planning a dune
buggy ride on Saturday, followed that evening
by a potluck dinner and corn roast. We will
plan on going out for dinner on Friday.
Area attractions in addition to beaches and
sand dunes include the Little Sable Lighthouse,
hiking/biking trails and a nearby golf course.
Campsites are $20/night. We have reserved
20 grassy sites with large, concrete slabs and
50-amp service. Amenities include an 80-foot
heated pool, large spa, wireless internet and
cable TV.
Make reservations as early as possible by
calling Silver Lake RV Resort at (231) 873-9200.
Be sure to mention that you are joining the
RVing Women Great Lakers rally. Information
about this resort is available at www.silvercreekrv.com.
Please also RSVP to rally host Nancy Wurm
at (989) 588-9352 or (313) 881-9263 or email
[email protected].
15–17 Oregon Chapter: Diamond Lake, Oregon. Diamond Lake RV Park. Rally hosts for this weekend are Carrie Hammons and Cynthia Moore.
We have 20 sites reserved. Campsites are
$30/night. If arriving early or staying longer,
make arrangements directly with the park. If
you must cancel, do so directly with the park
72 hours ahead to receive a refund; call the
park at (541) 793-3318. Please also let Linda
Waterman know you are canceling so we can
plan appropriately.
Reservations and deposits for this rally
were due by June 20. For availability, contact
Oregon Chapter secretary Linda Waterman at
[email protected].
28–31 Florida Chapter: Crystal River, Florida. Quail
Roost RV Campground. Visit the Florida Chapter website at www.flrvw.org for more information and driving directions.
Campsites are $25/night with full hookups.
Pay on arrival with personal check or cash only
(no credit cards). The park enforces a 2 p.m.
check-in time and will charge for earlier arrival.
www.rvingwomen.org
For campsite reservations, call rally host Nancy
Carbonari at (321) 757-0265 or email her at
[email protected]. Do not contact the park.
SEPTEMBER 2008
5–7
FreeWheelers Chapter: Marysville, California.
Collins Lake. We are planning several activities
and will also have a lost and found table for all
the things we each have accumulated that we
don’t know who it belongs to and a garage sale
or giveaway table for things we no longer need.
Campsites in our group area are $24/night
for Friday and Saturday. We have reserved 12
spaces and will have use of the party boat all
day Saturday. Campsites will also be available
Thursday and Sunday nights, probably at a
rate of $20/night. For more information, go to
www.collinslake.com. Our reserved spaces will
be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Other spaces may be available but will not be
offered at the group rate.
For rally information and to make
reservations, contact host Beverly Hiltachk at
[email protected]. Reservations
and payment must be made by Aug. 15.
12–14 Oregon Chapter: Charleston, Oregon. O
ceanside
RV Park. Rally hosts: Shirley Mahan and Gina
Masciantonio. We have 20 sites reserved.
Campsites are $26/night. The first night’s
deposit must be received by the treasurer by
Aug. 5. If arriving early or staying longer, make
arrangements directly with the park. If you
must cancel, do so directly with the park by
Aug. 31 to receive a refund; call the park at
(800) 570-2598. Please also let Linda Waterman
know you are canceling so we can plan appropriately.
For all Oregon Chapter events, reservations
should be sent to secretary Linda Waterman at
[email protected]. The deposit check should
be sent to treasurer Shirley Mahan at 517 13th
Ct., Coos Bay OR 97420.
19–21 Cascadia Chapter: Hoodsport, Washington.
Rest-A-While RV Park. For information go to
www.cascadiarvw.com. To register, contact
19–22 Solo Travelers Chapter: Charleston, South
Carolina. Exchange Park (site of Convention
2008). Our annual pre-convention rally will be
held on the grounds of Exchange Park, so we
will already be at the convention site! We will
have a w.come reception on Friday afternoon
to greet old friends and meet new chapter
members. At that meeting, we will sign up to
carpool on Saturday to see sights not included
in the official convention tours (Fort Sumter,
perhaps?) and maybe have a group dinner at a
local restaurant.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Our annual business meeting will be held
at 4 p.m. Sunday, followed by supper. Other
activities will be announced at the Friday
afternoon w.come reception. Exchange Park is
several miles from the historical district, so cars
are needed for carpooling.
How to register: when you send in your
convention registration, include the extra
nights on the registration form and send an
email to either Judith Robinson at rvwjude@
gmail.com or Lyn Rogers at lovestravlyn@
earthlink.net. If you have already registered for
convention, send a check for the extra nights
with a note to the RVW office. Campsites are
$30/night; $15/night for boondocking.
24–28 National RVW Convention 2008: Charleston,
South Carolina. Exchange Park.
OCTOBER 2008
3–5
Oregon Chapter: Sutherlin, Oregon. Hi Way
Haven RV Park. Rally hosts: Dixie Evers and
Joyce Pickens. We have 20 sites reserved. Campsites are $25/night. The first night’s deposit
must be received by the treasurer by Aug. 30. If
arriving early or staying longer, make arrangements directly with the park. If you must cancel, do so directly with the park 24 hours ahead
to receive a refund; call (800) 552-5699. Please
also let Linda Waterman know you are canceling so we can plan appropriately.
For all Oregon Chapter events, reservations
should be sent to secretary Linda Waterman at
[email protected]. The deposit check should
be sent to treasurer Shirley Mahan at 517 13th
Ct., Coos Bay OR 97420.
10–12 FreeWheelers Chapter: Plymouth, California.
49er Village RV Resort. The dates for this
event coincide with the 2008 October Festival
in Plymouth. There will be street vendors, a
bratwurst barbecue and a polka band.
Campsites are $46.67/night, including
tax. For information about the RV park, go to
www.49ervillage.com.
For rally information, contact hosts Harumi
McWhorter at [email protected] or
Marge O’Neil at [email protected].
16–19 Florida Chapter: Ocala, Florida. Silver River
State Park. This park is near Silver Springs,
home of the famous glass-bottom boats. The
park has a canoe launch, and we may be able to
rent canoes/kayaks from a nearby outfitter. This
part of Florida may experience cooling weather
in October. The park is very popular at this
time of year, so make reservations early.
Reserve campsites online at reserveamerica.
com or call (800) 326-3521. Since this is a state
park, reservations are only available on a firstcome, first-served basis; no sites will be available other than those individually reserved.
Try to book on the Sharpes Loop (sites 1-30)
or Fort Kin, the second loop, which is close by.
Additional information is available at www.
floridastateparks.org.
Please also confirm your arrival date and
site number to [email protected].
Directions: Silver River State Park is located
east of Ocala and one mile south of SR 40 on SR
35. The address is 125 NE 58th Ave., Ocala FL
34470.
For rally information, contact Arlene Dawson at [email protected].
16–19 MidAtlantic Chapter: Marshalls Creek, Pennsylvania. Otter Lake Camp Resort. This campground, truly deserving of a five-star rating
on hospitality and beauty, is nestled in the
landscape of the Pocono Mountains. Only 10
miles from the Delaware Water Gap National
Recreation Area, you are ready for anything
here—kayaking, hiking, horseback riding,
fishing, golf, or just enjoying the beautiful
surroundings. You might catch sight of a deer,
wild turkeys or an eagle.
Each paved campsite is among the trees
and has its own three-way hookup, fire pit
and picnic table. Sewer sites are limited, so
reserve early. The excellent facilities at Otter
Lake Camp Resort include bathhouses with hot
showers and private dressing rooms, a convenience store, two dump stations and, of course,
the tremendous lake—bring your kayak or
canoe. Canoes are available for rent.
Those who prefer to hang around the
campsite will find many things to do. There is
an indoor heated pool, sauna, two whirlpools,
two tennis courts, racquetball, horseshoes,
shuffleboard and catch and release fishing off
the on-site pier (no license required). You can
also hike into Delaware State Forest right from
the campground.
For shopping, try the outlets or quaint
shops close by. The local flea market has something for everyone.
For information and to register, contact
Bonnie Simkins at [email protected] or call
(302) 832-0705. Please include your name with
all communications. The registration deadline
is Sept. 26.
17–19 Cascadia Chapter: Lynden, Washington. Whatcom County Fairgrounds. For information go
to www.cascadiarvw.com. To register, contact
17–19 Texas Ramblin’ Roses Chapter: San Antonio,
Texas. Braunig Lake RV Resort. San Antonio is
known for the Alamo, the River Walk, missions
and fine dining. This resort is located just 15
miles south of the downtown area. A tour of
San Antonio is planned for Saturday. Golf and
fishing are also available.
www.rvingwomen.org
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
There will be a potluck on Friday evening,
and plans are underway for a catered BBQ dinner Saturday evening. Breakfast at the park will
be available for $3 on Saturday and Sunday.
Campsites are $23 to $25/night, and all
have 20/30/50-amp service. Credit cards are
accepted. Cabins and a motel are also available
on site. Make reservations directly with Braunig
Lake RV Resort by calling (877) 633-3170. Be
sure to mention that you are with the RVW
Texas Ramblin’ Roses. For information and
directions, go to www.brauniglakervresort.com.
For rally information contact hosts Nancy
Russell at (210) 860-6092 or Barbara Conley at
(210) 645-6116.
24–28 Arizona Chapter: Parker, Arizona. Buckskin Blue
Water RV Park. This park is on the Colorado
River about one mile northeast of Parker on
Hwy 95. You might want to try some fishing, so
bring your fishing gear. We will plan a luncheon and tour of Lake Havasu City (25 miles
north), which is home to the London Bridge.
Blue Wave Casino is adjacent to the park.
In honor of Octoberfest, brats, sauerkraut
and beers from around the world (root beers,
too) will be sampled. Educational opportunities
also are being scheduled. Rachel and Joel Harp
www.rvingwomen.org
will be joining us for an RV maintenance class
if we can confirm a minimum of 20 people. We
will have free use of a boat launch. Those of
you who would like to bring a boat or kayak,
please let us know if you would like to share.
the canyon area of the park. Each site has
water and 50- and 30-amp service, sewer, and
a concrete patio. Restrooms/showers and the
clubhouse are nearby. After parking your rig
and registering with your rally host, you will be
asked to pay your fees directly to the park.
The deadline to RSVP is Sept. 15, as we
need to confirm the total number of participants. For information, contact rally leaders
Jan Clayton at [email protected] or (503)
930-2587 and Pat Graves at [email protected] or
(928) 854-2419.
NOVEMBER 2008
8–11 SoCALjourners Chapter: Oceano, California.
Pacific Dunes RV Resort and Riding Stable. This
is our bi-annual rally at the dunes. Activities
will include hiking over the dunes to the beach,
horseback riding, dune buggy and Hummer
rides, golfing and kayaking.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
25 full hookup sites. Campground amenities
include a clubhouse, showers, laundry and
small convenience store.
For information and to register, contact Ria
Manetta at [email protected] or call (310)
577-0974. Please do not contact the park. The
registration deadline is Oct. 1.
13–17 Arizona Chapter: Safford, Arizona. Roper Lake
State Park. Join us for our Thanksgiving rally
and annual chapter meeting and elections.
Roper Lake State Park is located off US Route
191, six miles south of Safford. After a long
day of driving or hiking, the park’s natural hot
springs are not only inviting, they are invigorating—don’t forget your bathing suit. Desert
vegetation, a peaceful lake and a view of Mount
Graham, just a few miles away, frames a beautiful picture for visitors to enjoy.
Our Arizona Chapter annual meeting and
election will be held on Saturday at 10 a.m.
Activities will include a Thanksgiving
potluck. Our rally hostesses will provide the
turkeys; the rest of us will provide side dishes
and deserts. Bring your specialty hot dishes and
salads, and please remember we can only eat so
many pumpkin pies.
Roper is a stocked lake. Boats are limited
to only small electric motors. Touring nearby
Kartchner Cavern is a must for first timers to
this area of southeastern Arizona. We will plan
an outing to nearby Safford. Other activities
will be scheduled as well.
Keith Shoemaker from Redlands RV will
show us new systems to enhance our travels.
After his seminar in Banning, we had an additional rally at Redlands RV where four of our
rigs reaped the benefits of his seminar.
This is a boondocking rally. Camping fees
are $12/night. Hookups are not available; there
are restrooms and showers nearby.
Please RSVP by Nov. 1. For information,
contact rally leaders Mary Ellen Headley at
(520) 203-1822 or [email protected] and
Suzanne Seay at (520) 886-5621 or suzyseay@
aol.com.
13–16 Florida Chapter: Mims, Florida. Seasons in the
Sun. This park is convenient to the Merritt
Island National Wildlife Reserve, the Kennedy
Space Center and the Canaveral National Seashore. A hot dog barbecue is planned. Activities
will include our annual meeting and election of
officers. Ice cream floats will be served during
this meeting.
Campsites are $27.50.night plus tax and $2
for electric. For reservations, call Seasons in the
Sun at (877) 687-7275.
Please also RSVP to rally host MJ Cancro at
[email protected].
14–16 FreeWheelers Chapter: Bethel Island, California.
Sugarbarge RV Resort. We will hold our annual
meeting at this rally. For information about the
RV resort, go to www.sugarbarge.com. For rally
information, contact host Connie Mart at [email protected].
14–16 MidAtlantic Chapter: Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Old Mill Stream Campground. This pre-Thanksgiving gathering will close our northern camping season. To join us, call Bonnie Simkins at
(302) 832-0705 or email [email protected].
Space is limited to 30 campsites, so reserve
early. The deadline for reservations is Nov. 1.
13–16 Texas Ramblin’ Roses Chapter: Onalaska, Texas.
North Shore RV Park on Lake Livingston. Area
attractions include kayaking, fishing, boating,
horseback riding at the state park and Trade
Days in Livingston.
Wilma will present a preventative maintenance class on Friday and Saturday morning.
In the afternoon, we will have an Under the
Awning Sale—bring your goods to sell. We will
top off the day with a Saturday evening potluck.
Campsites are $20/night during, before
and after the rally. To make reservations, call
the park at (877) 766-7847 or (936) 646-3124.
Be sure to mention Texas Ramblin’ Roses when
you reserve, and make your reservations as
soon as possible. Credit cards are accepted.
For rally information, contact hosts Wilma
Bryant and Marge LeClaire at amgrowng@msn.
com or (941) 400-8554.
DECEMBER 2008
4–8
Arizona Chapter: Mesa, Arizona. Usery Mountain Regional Park is home to our Christmas
rally this year. This park encompasses over
3,500 acres and contains a large variety of
plants and animals that call the lower Sonoran
Desert home. The elevation ranges from 1,700
feet to 2,750 feet. Usery Park offers the outdoor
enthusiast plenty of opportunities to enjoy
hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. The park’s trailhead staging area is open
to all trail users. The park’s archery range is the
only five-star-rated range in the western United
States—bring your bows and arrows!
Activities will include a holiday grab bag
gift exchange. Bring a wrapped RV-themed gift,
$15 value. We will also have a holiday potluck
dinner with ham provided by our rally hosts.
Please bring a tasty side dish or dessert.
This is a boondocking rally. Bring empty
holding tanks and full water tanks. Our RVW
campsites will be in Campground A. Fees are
$12/night without hookups. Showers and restrooms are nearby. There is a covered pavilion
for our group activities.
www.rvingwomen.org
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
For information, contact Marilyn Teresi or
Connie Mantis at [email protected] or
(602) 377-1297.
4–7
Florida Chapter: Sebring, Florida. Highlands
Hamock State Park. Reserve your campsite
online at www.reserveamerica.com or call (800)
326-3521. Reservations for this popular park are
available 11 months in advance. We are trying
to reserve in sites 90 to 138.
After making your reservations, please
notify rally host Doreen Phillips by email at
[email protected].
5–7
FreeWheelers Chapter: Duncan Mills, California. Casini Ranch. For information about this
campground, go to www.casiniranch.com. For
rally information, contact host Polly Jones at
[email protected].
4–7
Texas Ramblin’ Roses Chapter: Conroe, Texas.
KOA RV Park/Montgomery. We will host our
annual meeting and our Christmas party at this
rally. Lake Conroe is nearby. The city of Conroe
is about 5 minutes away.
The weekend will start with a happy hour
w.come on Thursday. Friday we’ll have games
and a happy hour in the clubhouse, followed
by a potluck dinner. Our annual meeting and
election of officers will be held Saturday morn-
www.rvingwomen.org
ing. We will have games in the afternoon, so
please bring a game to share.
We will gather in the clubhouse Saturday
for a Christmas dinner of brisket-barbecue, turkey, salad and baked potatoes ($5 per person).
Our Christmas party will follow. Please bring
a wrapped gift, $10 value, to exchange. The
festivities will include a sing-along led by Gayle
and friends; feel free to bring your guitar.
Campsites are $25/night for full hookups.
For rally information, contact hosts Gayle
Pierce and Wanda Rodgers at (936) 582-1200.
28–Jan 2 Fantasy RV Tours: 6-day Rose Parade Rally.
Pasadena, California. See page 50.
JANUARY 2009
22–25 Florida Chapter: Kissimmee, Florida. Tropical
Palms (Encore) Resort. This park, a popular
winter destination, is convenient to Orlando/
Disney attractions.
Our rally campsite rate is $33/night plus
tax. We have reserved 30 sites and cannot
promise the park will accommodate us for any
additional sites when those are filled. The rally
rate is available for two days prior on a spaceavailable basis. If arriving early, call the park
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
directly at (800) 647-2567. No personal checks
are accepted at this park.
Due to the campground imposing cancellation penalties for this high-demand time of
year, we have special registration requirements
for this rally. A $25 deposit will be collected for
each registration; the deposit will be refundable
only up to 10 days before the rally. To register,
send name(s), address and type and size of rig
to Arlene Dawson, 31 Holly in the Wood, Port
Orange FL 32129. If you have questions, contact Arlene at [email protected] or
call (386) 760-5263.
For rally information, contact hosts Mary
Ann Laviano and Marilyn Bell at malmfb@
verizon.net or (813) 634-4387.
FEBRUARY 2009
12–15 Florida Chapter: Vero Beach, Florida. Sunshine
Travel (Encore) Resort. This park is convenient
to I-95 and ocean beaches and Florida’s east
coast attractions of Florida.
Our rally campsite rate is $32/night,
including tax. We have reserved 30 sites and
cannot promise the park will accommodate us
for any additional sites when those are filled.
The rally rate is available for two days prior on
a space-available basis. If arriving early, call the
park directly at (800) 628-7081. No personal
checks are accepted at this park.
Due to the campground imposing cancellation penalties for this high-demand time of
year, we have special registration requirements
for this rally. A $25 deposit will be collected for
each registration; the deposit will be refundable only up to 10 days before the rally. To
register, send name(s), address and type and
size of rig to Nancy Carbonari, 3683 Kestrel Ct.,
Melbourne FL 32934. If you have questions,
contact Nancy at [email protected] or call
(321) 480-7467.
Rally hosts are Donna Gaber, Judy Costa,
Beth W
aterfield and Ginny McCauley. For
information, email [email protected] or
call (321) 634-5040.
MARCH 2009
12–15 Texas Ramblin’ Roses Chapter: Fort Worth,
Texas. RV Ranch Resort of Fort Worth. Join us
for some great Western fun. We will experience
an authentic cattle drive of Texas Longhorn
steers down the streets of Fort Worth by real
cowboys and cowgirls. This will be followed by
lunch and time for browsing the historic Stockyard area. We might also take a side trip to visit
the famous Billy Bob’s.
We will also make time for the fun and frivolity Texas Ramblin’ Roses are known for. We
will share potlucks and laughter, perhaps take
in a round of gold, and have a specially catered
Western meal.
Rally hosts are Mary Grace Hornell, Patricia
Dalton, Judy Amstutz and Sue Tyrone.
26–29 Florida Chapter: Marathon, Florida. Jolly Roger
Travel Park. Activities planned for this weekend
may include a day trip to Dry Tortugas National
Park, a sunset cruise out of Key West and a picnic potluck in the park’s waterside pavilion.
The campsite rate for Passport members
will be approximately $35 and will be offered
for a maximum of five nights. Make reservations directly with the campground by calling
(800) 995-1525. Please also RSVP to rally hst
Lynette Birch.
For rally information, contact hosts Lynette
Birch and Mary Ann Siniscalchi at [email protected].
APRIL 2009
4–6
FreeWheelers Chapter: Jackson, California.
Rancheria RV Park. For information, contact
rally host Sharon Adams at [email protected].
MAY 2009
7–10 Texas Ramblin’ Roses Chapter: Smith Point,
Texas. Spoonbill RV Park. We are returning for
the third year to this wonderful park. The area
is famous for birding and fishing. There will be
a potluck on Friday evening and a seafood dinner at the clubhouse on Saturday (cost is $20).
Campsites on the water are $23.40/night;
$19.80/night for other sites. Credit cards are
accepted. To make reservations, call the campground at (409) 355-2347. When you call for
reservations, be sure to mention Texas Ramblin’
Roses. For more information and directions to
this park, go to www.spoonbillrvpark.com.
For rally information, contact hosts Jo Ann
Brenek and Wanda Rodgers by email at
[email protected].
JUNE 2009
4–7
FreeWheelers Chapter: Angels Camp, California.
Angels Camp RV Resort.
For information, contact rally host Sarah
Gonzales at [email protected].
SEPTEMBER 2009
12–Oct. 9 Fantasy RV Tours and Creative World Travel:
28-day Western National Parks Tour. Leaves from
Pahrump, Nevada. See page 51.
Updates to this calendar are published
online at www.rvingwomen.org
www.rvingwomen.org
Recalls
LPG Lines and Fittings
Four Winds International—Chateau Sport (2008–2009), Dutchmen
Express (2008–2009), Four Winds 5000 (2008–2009)
Defect: Certain motorhomes may have improper routing of the
propane gas line within the slide-out room. Continued operation of
the slide room may result in a rupture of this propane supply line,
potentially causing a gas leak, fire or explosion. Remedy: Four Winds
is instructing owners to immediately turn off the propane supply
valve, suspend use of propane appliances, and take the motorhome
to their nearest Four Winds dealer or service center for repair. Dealers
will reconfigure the propane supply line to allow proper movement
of the line without binding or chafng. Owners may contact Four
Winds at (574) 266-1111 [NHTSA Recall No. 08V189000].
Recall: Tie Rod Assembly
Coachmen RV—Cross Country (2007), Pathfinder (2007–2008),
Sportscoach Encore (2007–2008)
Forest River—Berkshire (2007–2008), Charleston (2007–2008)
Winnebago Industries—Itasca Ellipse (2007–2008), Itasca Latitude
(2007–2008), Itasca Meridian (2007–2008), Winnebago Destination
(2007–2008), Winnebago Journey (2007–2008), Winnebago Tour
(2007–2008)
Defect: On certain motorhomes built on Freightliner chassis, the fasteners that attach the steering arm or tie rod arms to the spindle may
be over or under tightened. The steering arm fasteners may fatigue
and fracture, which could cause a crash without warning. Remedy:
Winnebago is working with Freightliner to repair these vehicles
free of charge. Owners may contact Freightliner at (800) 547-0712,
Coachmen at (574) 825-5821 [NHTSA Recall No. 08V192000], Forest
River at (574) 389-4600 [NHTSA Recall No. 08V204000], Winnebago
at (641) 585-3535 [NHTSA Recall No. 08V226000].
Recall: Battery Cables
Jayco—Seneca (2005–2008)
Defect: On certain motorhomes, an electrical short may occur if the
battery cables were not tucked into the compartment in a manner
that does not allow the cables to be pinched between the battery
slide tray and the compartment door. This may result in a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will relocate the battery cables to the rear battery
and reposition a clamp to prevent pinching. Owners may contact
Jayco at (574) 825-5861 [NHTSA Recall No. 08V209000].
Recall: LPG Systems
Jayco—Greyhawk (2007–2008), Seneca (2005–2008)
Defect: On certain motorhomes, the conduit clamp on the copper
liquid propane (LP) tube feeding the slide-out is incorrectly placed.
The may allow the copper tube to bend and possibly leak with the
movement of the slide-out, allowing pressurizedf LP gas to escape.
Remedy: Dealers will relocate the conduit clamp and add a rubber
grommet to allow adhesion. Owners may contact Jayco at (574)
825-5861 [NHTSA Recall No. 08V207000].
Recall: SAF-Holland Suspension Weld
Country Coach—Inspire (2008–2009), Tribute (2008)
Defect: On some motorhomes with transverse beam assemblies
installed as original equipment to aid in providing roll resistance
of the drive axle suspension, the transverse beam was not properly
welded, which could result in a failure of the weld. If the weld fails,
vehicle stability while cornering could be affected. In addition,
the transverse beam could drop to the ground, causing sparks that
could cause a fire hazard. Remedy: SAF-Holland is working with
manufacturers to identify and correct this problem. Vehicles will be
repaired at no cost to the owners. Owners may contact SAF-Holland
at (231) 773-3271 [NHTSA Recall No. 08E031000].
www.rvingwomen.org
Recall: Steering – Hydraulic Power Assist System
Airstream—360XL (2006–2007), 390 Sky Deck (2005–2006),
390XL (2006–2007), 396XL (2006–2007), A37 (2006–2007), A39
(2006–2007)
Coachmen RV—Cross Country (2005–2007), Cross Country SE
(2005–2006), Sportscoach Elite (2005–2007), Sportscoach Encore
(2006)
Damon Corp.—Astoria (2005–2007), Astoria Pacific (2006–2007),
Astoria Waldorf (2005), Tuscany (2005–2007)
Forest River—Charleston (2006–2007)
Four Winds International—Valencia (2006–2007)
WinnebagoIndustries—Itasca Ellipse (2005–2009), Itasca Meridian
(2005–2009), Winnebago Journey (2005–2009), Winnebago Tour
(2005–2009)
Defect: On certain motorhomes built on Freightliner XC chassis,
the chassis contains steering filters that can plug due to failure of
the screen adhesion to the filter housing. This will cause a rise in
return line pressure, potentially leading to a hose separation from
the filter or steering gear fitting, causing a sudden loss of steering
fluid and power assist. Remedy: Freightliner is conducting this recall
and will replace the affected filters with a larger filter. Owners may
contact Freightliner at (800) 547-0712, Airstream at (937) 596-6111
[NHTSA Recall No. 08V198000], Coachmen at (574) 825-5821
[NHTSA Recall No. 08V193000], Damon at (800) 860-3812 [NHTSA
Recall No. 08V233000], Forest River at (574) 389-4600 [NHTSA Recall No. 08V213000], Four Winds at (574) 266-1111 [NHTSA Recall
No. 08V194000], Winnebago at (641) 585-3535 [NHTSA Recall No.
08V223000]
Recall: Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Assembly
Silver Eagle Mfg.—Falcon Dollies (2006–2008), Hawk Dollies
(2006–2008), Tandem Dollies (2006–2008)
Defect: On certain dollies equipped with SAF-Holland Simplex SE
or SE II fifth wheels, the latch lever pivot bolt assembly may have
been over tightened, which could distort the pivot bolt spacer sleeve.
Corrosion or contaminates in the pivot may cause it to bind and
prevent the fifth wheel jaw from latching securely around the trailer
king pin. There is a possibility that the fifth wheel may fail to latch
without the driver’s knowledge. Remedy: Dealers will replace the
pivot bolt and sleeve with a hex head shoulder bolt and washer.
Owners may contact Silver Eagle at (800) 547-6792 [NHTSA Recall
No. 08V188000].
Recall: Engine Cooling, Diesel
Winnebago Industries—Itasca Navion (2008), Winnebago ERA
(2009), Winnebago View (2008)
Defect: On certain motorhomes built on Sprinter chassis and
equipped with 3.0L diesel engines, the crankshaft sensor could fail
due to separation of bond wires from the lead frame to the sensor,
causing an interruption in power. This could reslt in the vehicle
becoming immediately inoperable. Remedy: Dealers will replace
the crankshaft sensor free of charge. Owners may contact Sprinter
at (800) 992-1997 or Winnebago at (641) 585-3535 [NHTSA Recall
No. 08V216000].
Recall: Propane Plumbing Fittings
Fleetwood Enterprises—Jambotree GT (2004–2006), Tioga SL
(2004–2006)
Defect: On certain motorhomes, the black iron propane plumbing
located under the motorhome may come into contact with chassis
components and, under certain conditions, could become pinched
or crushed. This could lead to a propane gas leak, causing a fire or
explosion. Remedy: Dealers will inspect and relocate the black iron
propane pipe with a kit that moves the components to the side
of the chassis frame rail. Owners may contact Fleetwood at (800)
509-3418 [NHTSA Recall No. 08V232000].
Classifieds
EMPLOYMENT
GREAT JOBS in great places! We’ve helped
more than 70,000 RVers find part-time and
full-time jobs in parks, resorts, campgrounds,
theme parks, etc. Call 1(800) 446-5627 for a
free brochure or visit www.workamper.com.
PETS
STANDARD POODLE PUPS. All colors.
3 generations on site. We all travel July to
March. Delivery/price negotiable to RVers.
(216) 832-5713
TRAVEL & RESOURCES
FIND MORE CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE
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80 cents per word and members receive the third
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is absolutely free for members.
IF YOU MOVE during the year because of
travel or seasonal changes in your residence,
please notify the RVW office each time you
move (and please include your full name,
membership number, previous address, and
new address). We maintain only one address for
you at any one given time and assume it is your
current address. Call (888) 557-8464 or (480)
671-6226 or email [email protected].
SNOWBIRD MAIL & MESSAGE. Owned
and operated by women. Reliable mail forwarding. Plans from $18/month to $150/year. Call
(800) 800-0710, email info@snowbirdmail.
com or see www.snowbirdmail.com.
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Check out our website at www.rvingwomen.org
and you’ll see that our website has been updated
with user friendly applications and improved
security protections that take advantage of the
newest technology. Getting to our website is
the same—go to www.rvingwomen.org—and
member access is the same—sign on with the
same user name and password.
IS IT TIME TO RENEW? Please be aware
that RVW membership renewals are due on the
anniversary date of your current membership,
as shown on your membership card. Call (480)
671-6226 or (888) 557-8464 or send an email
to [email protected] to inquire about the
status of your membership.
FLORIDA PROPERTIES
ONE OF CAREFREE’S BEST PRICES:
$209,000. 2 bedrooms/2 baths w/all new
stainless kitchen. Front four-season room, tile
floor, screened sliding windows w/view of lake,
26 x 10. French doors to rear screened porch,
38 x 9.5. Own entry and view of another lake.
Beautifully landscaped with zoned sprinkler.
33917 zip. (614) 668-4689 or burnetm1@
embarqmail.com.
WASHINGTON PROPERTIES
FOR SALE OR RENT DBR: Two side-byside graveled RV lots on Third Street separated
by beautiful lawn, great water views. Use RV or
install park models. Great for friends or mother/
daughter. Get one, or both at a discount. Owner
help finance. (360) 683-8246.
PARK MODEL FOR RENT year-round in
well-established community on Olympic Peninsula overlooking San Juan Straits. Unobstructed
view of the water. Fully furnished, including
water and electric. Also many amenities. $250/
week includes cleaning. (360) 460-4424.
ACCESSORIES/EQUIPMENT
THE ULTIMATE TOWING SITE. Check out
Towing World at www.towingworld.com. The
ultimate source for towing information.
QUIET AFFORDABLE 12-VOLT COOLING. Runs on solar panel or 12-volt battery.
TurboKOOL Evaporative Swamp Coolers
(formerly RECAIR). Call (800) 326-4410 or
visit www.turbokool.com.
NEED RVW BRAG TAGS? Or a name badge?
Or a new RVW flag? Brag tag decals for your
rig, RVW flags, logo patches for your jacket,
name badges (by Badges R Us) and cloissone
pins are available at a nominal cost. For information, go to www.rvingwomen.org or email
[email protected].
SPECIAL DEAL FOR MEMBERS:
PAY FOR TWO CLASSIFIEDS ADS
GET THE THIRD ONE FREE!
Our classified ad rate is just 80 cents per word. To place your classified ad in our September/October 2008 issue, mail or email your ad to arrive
by July 25. We cannot guarantee placement in the next issue for ads received after the deadline date.
Mail ad copy with your payment to RVing Women, P.O. Box 1940, Apache Junction AZ 85217 or email to [email protected]. Be sure
to type or print clearly, include your first and last name and a contact phone number and enclose a check (or credit card authorization) made payable to RVW.
All classified ads are set uniformly with lead words in bold caps. Type variations, abnormal capitalizations and illustrations are not included.
Counting words: Two initials are considered one word. Figures consisting of a dollar sign and numerals are considered one word. Zip code is one
word and must appear in every ad with an address. City names consisting of two or more words are considered one word (i.e., New York or Salt
Lake City). Phone number with area code is considered one word. Web and email addresses each count as one word.
All real estate advertising in this publication is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference,
limitation, or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin or any intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” This publication will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our
readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.
www.rvingwomen.org
CLASSIFIEDS
Please Support Our Advertisers
SELL IT HERE. Unload your old RV equipment at Hitch Trader, the online site for RV
classifieds. www.hitchtrader.com.
Brazel’s RV Performance................................................................53
RVS AND PARK MODELS
Escape Trailer Industries.................................................................13
RV FOR SALE: 2002 ITASCA SUNOVA,
30’. Workhorse chassis. Long slideout. Wellmaintained. Auto-seek dish. 100-watt solar
panel. Back-up camera. Tow pkg. $42K OBO.
(909) 792-8666 or email mspatkruger@aol.
com.
Fan-Tastic Vent...............................................................................57
Fantasy RV Tours/Rose Parade Rally.............................................50
Fantasy RV Tours/Western National Parks.....................................51
Fields of Fire / by Carol Ogg..........................................................25
RVING WOMEN
MAGAZINE DEADLINES
THE DEADLINE DATES for each issue of
RVing Women magazine for rally and event
announcements, chapter news reports, articles,
and classified ads are listed below.
July 25
September 25
November 20
January 25
March 25
May 25
September/October 2008
November/December 2008
January/February 2009
March/April 2009
July/August 2008
July/August 2008
To submit articles, photos or announcements,
email [email protected] or send
to RVW Editor, P.O. Box 260, Ferndale WA
98248. Articles must be relevant in some
way to RVing. A primary consideration is to
include information that will be helpful to
other RVers.
Photos to accompany articles are always
appreciated. Electronic files sent as a .jpeg
attachment are preferred. Please identify the
person who took the photo and include two or
three sentences describing the photo and listing
the full names of any people pictured.
To receive a copy of the general guidelines,
send an email to [email protected]
or call (360) 510-2557.
Grill Guard......................................................................................41
Henderson’s Line-Up, Brake & RV................................................39
Logorific..........................................................................................59
Miller Insurance......................................................inside front cover
Poulsbo RV.............................................................inside back cover
RVbookstore.com............................................................................37
RV Décor.........................................................................................27
Tom Stinnett RV................................................................ back cover
Windsor Place RV...........................................................................54
Please let the manufacturers, retailers, mechanics and service providers
you patronize, and the campgrounds and resorts you visit, know that
you are a member of RVing Women. Our sponsors and advertisers
especially need to know that our members appreciate their support.
For display advertising, contact Karlene Field
(360) 668-1367 –– [email protected]
www.rvingwomen.org
Photo Feature for July/August 2008
Category:
Sports and Adventure
Winner
Judy Amstutz
Sled Dogs on Patrol
(featured on our cover)
Runner Up
Mary Ellen Appleton
Hiking Team
Honorable Mention
Thursa Stair
Crab Fishing
RVing Women put their heads together
and try to lure some crab onto a pier
near Chincoteague, Virginia. / Photo by
Thursa Stair
Hiking partners Pat and Henri (smartly
dressed in bright blue halter) take a rest
at the top of a wood stairway offering a
breathtaking view of Brandywine Falls.
The falls, located in Ohio’s Cuyahoga
Valley National Park, cascade from a
height of 60 feet. / Photo by Mary Ellen
Appleton
www.rvingwomen.org
Proud Sponsor of
Tammy
Carol
introducing
Gloria
We now have three expert salespeople
to serve RVW, because...
Girls Just Want
to Have Fun!
See you at Convention 2008!!!
Tifﬁn
Holiday Rambler
Newmar
Keystone
Dutchmen
1-800-583-5685
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KZ
Forest River
Starcraft
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Georgie Boy