August 2015 - Teton Club International

A PUBLICATION OF TETON CLUB INTERNATIONAL * VOLUME 26: NO 3 * August 2015
A Message from
the President
President’s Message..…………...1, 11
Your TCI Officers…………....…...….…2
Website Updates..........................3
East Rally………………………….... .4-12
Sunshine Corner.……….………..…....6
Teton Repairs……………………………13
Tech Tip…………………………….…14-16
Rally Registrations……....……...18 -20
Announcements.…….……...……..….21
Welcome New Members………......22
Address changes…………………......22
Dues Forms………...………….…..…...23
The opinions expressed in this publication are those
of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the
viewpoints of Teton Club International or any of its
officers.
Any technical advice is not intended to substitute for
the advice of a professional mechanic or authorized
RV service technician and TCI accepts no liability.
The newsletter is published quarterly in February,
May, August, and November. Deadline for articles is
the 20th of the month preceding publication. All letters, articles, art, and photographs are subject to
editing, alteration, or may be condensed.
Please mail or email all articles to:
Laura Schrock, TCI Editor
18596 Gun Club Rd.
Arcola, IL 61910
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (217) 254-9939
I
t does not seem like it has been almost a year since our 25th
Anniversary Teton Club International Rally in Nashville, TN. I am looking
forward to Dennis Inman's 26th International Rally, September 20-26th.
at the Elkhart Campground in Elkhart, Indiana. I hope everyone can
come and enjoy our Family of Friends for another fun filled rally.
In this message I would like to highlight a couple that have contributed a
tremendous amount of time, expertise and work for the club over alot of
years. Jeff & Stephanie Engel # 316.
Jeff is our TCI Webmaster and Stephanie is our TCI Secretary/Treasurer, she
had previously served in this capacity in the 90's. Jeff is also our East Region
President who, with Stephanie, put on the East Region Rally at Gettysburg,
PA, in May. The amount of history they were able to pack into this 5 day rally
was nothing short of amazing.
We were given a complete guided tour of the Battlefield which not only explained what happened but also tried to explain why events unfolded in the
way they did and how the Confederate forces failed to carry the day on the
battlefield with hopes of continuing north to try to capture the Pennsylvania
State Capitol at Harrisburg. It was interesting to note that the scars of battle
can still be seen on some of Gettysburg's older buildings.
The Engels arranged for the rally attendees to be given presentations by both
General and Mrs. Lee and the following evening General and Mrs. Grant. Both
Generals, in period correct uniforms, did an excellent job of explaining what
led to this conflict from their respective points of view.
Our third history presenter, on the final night of the rally, portrayed a foot soldier and gave us the story of what life was like for the men in the trenches.
As your President and having run 2 rallies myself I think the Engels are to be
commended for the extraordinary amount of work and planning that was required to put on this rally.
( Continued on pg 11)
TCI Club Officers
TCI International 2014-2015 Officers
West Region 2014-2015 Officers
President……………………….…...……..Carole Gilfedder #64
President……………….… Pete Stifle #1428
1st Vice President……………...……...Dennis Inman #1184
1st VP………………………. Tudy Jacobson #1041
2nd Vice President………………...…..Bob Clark #1313
2nd VP………………....……. Gary Wood #1615
3rd Vice President……………...…….. Sherry Cox Farnsworth #892
3nd VP……………...………...Vacant
4th Vice President……………...…….. Bobbie Stifle #1428
Secy/Treas………..…..........Karen Cole #1504
Secretary/Treasurer……………...…...Stephanie Engel #316
Historian………….….………..Mary Walker #1393
East Region 2014-2016 Officers
President......................................... Jeff Engel #316
By-Laws Committee
1st Vice President .......................... David Chermak #1025
Chairperson ………………..Bob Clark #1313
2nd Vice President ......................... Dale Spillars #1086
East……………………………………..…………....N/A
3th Vice President…………….……..…Tom Wilby # 1450
West………………………………….…….......…...N/A
Secretary/Treasurer ....................... Jerry Yoesting #1376
Historian ......................................... Jeff Engel #316
Membership Committee
Sunshine Committee
Chairperson ………...……………….………...N/A
Chairperson……………………………...………Sherry Cox #892
East…………………………………...…………...N/A
West………………………………………...……..N/A
Newsletter Editor
Chairperson……………………………...……...Laura Schrock #1407
Webmaster
Chairperson……………………………...……...Jeff Engel #316
Historian
Chairperson…………………………………..…Tudy Jacobson #1041
T
’S TIME TO PAY YOUR DUES!!IME
2015-2016 Rally Calendar
TCI International Rally:
Elkhart, IN
September 20– 27, 2015
TCI East Region Rally:
Florence, IN
April 24-28, 2016
TCI West Region Rally:
Beatty, NV
April 2-8, 2016
2
Website Update
I
wanted to let everyone know what has changed and how we are doing.
Since the Nashville Rally I have upgraded all the rally slide shows to videos, this means that all the Rally Books and Rally
Slide shows are now videos no more pressing the space bar to advance the slides just click and watch the videos.
For years the website was shared with another company that helped us if we had any issues, which was a good thing but it
limited us, we did not have contact with the service provider. After talking to the folks that we shared the site with we both
thought based on the growth of the TCI site it would be better for us to be on our own so in March we made the change.
I also started keeping track of the activity on the site in March of 2014, meaning how many people go to the site and once
there do they look at more than the home page.
2014 TCI Website Total Activity
Jeff Engel #316
2014 TCI Website Activity
Visited More Than The Home Page
3
THE BATTEFIELD BUS TOUR
O
n Monday morning bright and early (at least to some) we left the campground and caravanned to
the visitor’s center where we were due to depart on a guided two hour bus tour. We had on
board an excellent licensed tour guide who explained at each stop how the battle started and
continued for three days. We made several stops showing us the positions of both the Union and Confederate troops on each day of the battle. We saw evidence of the battle in houses in the city that were
pockmarked with bullets holes and saw at least two different places where the cannon projectiles were
still lodged in the buildings. He explained the horrors of what had taken place and the number of casualties from both sides, both Confederate and Union. He talked about General Robert E. Lee who up to this
time was undefeated in battle against the Union forces. His Army of Northern Virginia had won battle
after battle and President Lincoln was constantly changing generals trying to find one that could defeat
General Lee and his army. The President finally appointed General Robert Meade (one of Lee’ students
at West Point) and he proved to be the right man at the right time. The weather was hot on July 1, 1863
when the battle first began with the Union forces (a cavalry regiment) employing a delaying tactic until
the reinforcements could arrive. The confederates drove the Union Army back through town and the union soldiers took up defensive positions on Cemetery Ridge. For the next two days the battle raged on
with the confederates unsuccessfully trying to take Cemetery Ridge.
In the three days of fighting there were 51,000 casualties from both sides. The guide told us that the
union soldiers that died were buried in swallow graves until they could be properly interned at the new
national cemetery. The confederate dead were left on the battlefield until they were removed by families
from the south. The only confederates that were buried in the cemetery were those that were mistaken
for union soldiers. .
This bothered me so I looked up several sources and found that the confederate dead were buried in
shallow graves where they had fallen. There was no effort to indentify them. They lay in these shallow
graves for nine years until they were returned home by families and friends.
This tour showed us the horrors and consequences of war. Collateral damage was extremely low with
only woman ( Jenny Wade) being killed from a stray bullet. The bus tour and guide gave us an opportunity to experience the battle of Gettysburg in a unique way.
Submitted by Dennis Inman, 1184
4
Teton Rally - Gettysburg, PA. May, 2015
A
fter a catered dinner, our large group was told that there would be entertainment, and entertainment it was.
A couple in official dress from the early 1800's arrived. What an exciting time it was. They introduced themselves while walking through the crowd to answer any questions that we may have.
General Robert E. Lee and his wife Anna were ready to tell us about life in the military. Although we
all knew that General Lee died in 1870, I would have bet that the man and woman talking to us were the
real couple. It is simply amazing that two people can change into a life style of about 200 years ago, and
never miss a beat. They spoke of their 7 children, 3 boys and 4 girls, and told us what had become of
them.
Robert Edward Lee was born on January 19. 1807, in Stratford Hall, Virginia.
He passed away in Lexington, Virginia on October 12, 1870.
Anna Randolph Custis married Robert E. Lee on June 30, 1881
General Lee spoke of Duty and Honor. I can never do more. I can never wish to do less. These two words
embody all that is good about Robert E. Lee.
General Robert E. Lee and his wife Anna were portrayed by Frank & Bonnie Orlando.
Submitted by, Helen Petersen, #1567
Civil War Museum
T
he causes of the Civil War, then the approach to the war, the actual war (1861-1863), and Our
Tuesday morning return to the Gettysburg Visitor Center included time to explore the park’s showcase museum. Entering through the main glass doors, the small rooms
quickly became a labyrinth of twists and turns; a maze of alcoves and connecting
corridors. As we worked our way through the exhibits, it became clear that there
actually was an over-all organization to the displays. Exhibits and dioramas first
focused on ended with the Gettysburg, Pennsylvania campaign.
In a hallway and adjoining room, the museum also hosted a special exhibit: Treasures of the Civil War. This showcase highlighted military leaders, politicians and
civilian activists of the period. A companion book is available for the more serious
Civil War buff.
George Hooper, 454
5
Entertainment on Wednesday Evening
O
n Tuesday, we were entertained by stories from General Lee and his wife, Mary Custis Lee. On Wednesday, we were
given “the other side of the story.”
Hiram Ulysses Grant (later known as Ulysses S. Grant upon entry to West Point) and his wife, the former Julia Dent, related
stories of Grant’s youth, his time as a cadet at West Point, his courting days with the sister of one of his classmates, his Army
service culminating as Commanding General of the Union Army, his leadership guiding Reconstruction and his service as the
18th President of the United States.
As a child in Ohio, Grant learned the trade of a tanner and a farmer. He blamed a jar of milk as the reason for his entry into
West Point. While securing milk from a grocer, he learned the grocer’s son had resigned from the Academy to the great dismay of his father. The father, who essentially disowned his son, then took steps to secure an appointment for Grant. When
appointed, the Congressman recorded his name as Ulysses S. Grant. His classmates called him Sam in honor of his initials (U.
S.) being a short-hand for Uncle Sam.
After graduation, he competed with seven other officers for the hand of Julia Dent and won because he “looked like a doll.”
Grant related some of the challenges when facing West Point classmates and other friends on the civil war battlefield. He described sending a birth gift to a Confederate officer upon the birth of his friend’s child.
The couple gave us a thoughtful and entertaining discussion, speaking to us as friends to whom they were relating stories
from their past. The content of their presentation was based on letters and memoirs of the time. It was a delightful evening.
Michael Ryan, # 1654
Sunshine Corner
Hello fellow Tetoners......
S
ince the last newsletter, a "Thinking of You" card was sent to Juanita McGalliard #1075 due to a severed Achilles'
tendon. Get well cards were sent to Franz Petersen #1567 whom had a heart attack and to Carole Gilfedder #64
who had shoulder surgery. My husband Keith lost his brother, Edgar Farnsworth to MDS which is a rare blood dis-
ease. TCI sends our thoughts and prayers to all of our members and their family's who have suffered due to health issues
or the loss of family or friends.
Thank you to everyone who passes this information along to me and please continue to let me know if any of our members or
their families need a little sunshine sent their way.
Sherry Cox-Farnsworth #892
[email protected]
6
2015 East Rally Christmas Surprise
We had an unexpected surprise at the 2015 East Rally. It seems that the Artillery Ridge
Campground is involved with the community and has built a Christmas display of Christmas decorations and toys from years gone by.
The Campground built a building to house the display. It has three rooms each having an
array of toys and decorations. The first room had Christmas trees, figurines and a large
doll house that was very impressive.
The second room has all types of toys, figurines, trees and outdoor decorations, we found
out that you can be in Pennsylvania but you can’t get away from Mickey Mouse.
The third and final room had my favorite Christmas item a model railroad, it was and operating trains system and I enjoyed it as it brought me back to my childhood and Christmas
at my home in the 1950’s.
The folks at Artillery Ridge opened the display especially for us as it is normally open
Christmas time and for other special events.
7
Trip to Eisenhower Farm
Day broke with warm sunny weather once again for the last day of activities, the perfect ending to a perfectly
wonderful rally. Our rally master Jeff and his wife Stef really showed us a great time and took us on tours that
made us think about the meaning of life and the actions of human being. As we think back on what our ancestors
accomplished, we are not only reminded of what they did and achieved for us but also that future generations will
look back on us and reflect on our activities and accomplishments.
As usual we caravanned to the Visitor's Center and boarded a bus for the Eisenhower Farm and Home tour. Our
large group split up for tours of the house after being greeted by National Park Ranger Barbara Brundrege in her
uniform and "flat hat".
We learned that this is the only piece of real estate that U.S. Army career officer, 5 star General and 34th U.S.
President, Dwight David Eisenhower and his wife Mamie ever owned. He wanted to buy a piece of land and leave
it better than they found it. Ike was born in Texas in 1890 and grew up in Kansas. He graduated with the class of
1915 from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. He and Mamie Doud, a Denver socialite, married in 1916. He
served in W W l. A son Doud Dwight who was born in 1917 died at the age of four. Another son John was born
soon after and he had four children. In 1933 Ike became General MacArthur's personal assistant and his military
career took him all over the world, eventually becoming Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Forces to
command the invasion of Europe in 1943, direct the invasion of Normandy (D Day) 1944-45 and accepted Germany's unconditional surrender. In 1948 he retired from 30 years active military service and was appointed President of Columbia University in N.Y. City. He went on to chair the Joint Chiefs of Staff. When the Korean War began
he was appointed Supreme Commander of the Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).
Ike and Mamie bought the Gettysburg 189 acre farm for $44,000. It turned into a $210,000 money pit as it was
found to be brick veneer over a termite infested 200 year old structurally unstable log home. Much of the original
structure had to be razed which gave Mamie the opportunity to replace it with a modified Georgian home featuring
a sun flooded large living room where they not only could receive and entertain guests but also display the wonderful and elegant gifts bestowed on them. She subscribed to policy of promptly writing a gracious thank you note
and then displaying and using those gifts to show their appreciation and enjoyment of them. Ike was the last
president to be allowed to keep such gifts IE: silk Tabriz rug, Mother of Pearl inlaid Black Lacquer coffee table,
Marble fireplace, painting of Praque, Chechoslovakia, etc.
Ike was the first president to travel by helicopter, coming to the farm to relax and receive guest, almost none of
which were allowed to stay overnight, Nikita Khrushchev being the rare exception, and their private talks at the
farm were instrumental in thawing the Cold War until the U-2 spy plane was shot down with U.S. pilot Francis Gary
Powers taken prisoner, canceling Ike's planned visit to Nikita Khrushchev in the U.S.S.R. and destroying the summit conference meeting in Paris (U.S.-U.S.S.R.-England and France). Most of the furnishings in the farm house
were gifts and Ike was the 1st president to have a color TV and remote control. After a heart attack he set up the
temporary White House at the farm, but day visitors and guest stayed overnight at near by Camp David. Among
other things he was responsible for the $1.00 per hour minimum wage in 1955 and the Interstate highway system
in 1956 which would eventually completely alter the transportation and commerce of our country. He signed legislation making Alaska and Hawaii the 49th and 50th states. His accomplishments are much to numerous to list
here.
8
( continued from pg 8)
Eisenhower received endless Military honors and was called the "architect of victory". He was just about the only
person with whom General George Patton got along. In 1952 Henry Cabot Lodge urged him to return home and
run for President, which he won by a land slide (the first Republican President in 20years) putting Mamie's
dreams of retirement to the farm on hold for 8 more years. During his Presidency Ike had a strong hold on the
economy and kept the annual inflation rate down to 1 1/2 % with full employment and insisted on balanced
budgets. He left the White House in the hands of John F. Kennedy in 1961 and he and Mamie began to enjoy
their retirement, the farm activities, his hobbies including oil painting, raising prize winning Black Angus beef cattle, and visits to a retreat in Palm Desert, California.
Mamie was famously a non-cook, like many of our Tetonette's, but was proficient in making fudge and mayonnaise. I have had her fudge recipe for over 50 years (copy sent to the newsletter) but even at the farm I could not
get her mayo recipe. They sell fudge in the Visitor's
Center at the National Military Park but I don't know if it is her recipe. Ike loved to cook in their large kitchen
making homey simple American foods. Most meals were prepared by Delores Moaney and eaten on TV trays in
their favorite room, the sun porch. John Moaney, on the General's personal staff since 1942, continued to care
for their dogs, Ike's golf clubs, clothes, house cleaning and served the meals.
On the grounds the original small one stall garage was converted to a guest house consisting of one small living
room, a bathroom, and one bedroom. Their grandson David, who married Julie Nixon, was the longest resident,
staying there one Summer while working on the farm.
Ike added a multiple stall garage on the end of the huge barn nearest to but not attached to the house. It contains a Crosley Runabout (unknown year) used for general transportation and serviced Great Britton's Prime Minister Winston Churchill and French President Charles De Gaulle among others. Another stall houses a 1965
Buick Sport Wagon and in a 3rd a 1955 Crown Imperial Limousine (their every day car). A 4th stall has golf
carts. The one used by Churchill is a Cushman Golfster. There is one electric and one gas, and another battery
operated Fairway King. At the other end of the barn in what was the milk parlor, the Secret Service set up their
office. A red light on top of a pole over the entry door flashed when the phone rang. It is still a working farm and
young calfs were with the cows the day we visited. Mamie had a small green house where she started plants and
took them to the White House. A pleasant sunny patio and small rose garden are behind the house and Ike's
PGA putting green, complete with a sand trap is between the house and the barn.
Ike died in 1969 and was buried in Kansas. Mamie continued to live at the farm until her death in 1979 and was
buried beside her husband at the Presidential Library in Abilene.
Thanks again to Jeff and Stef for hosting a really interesting, fun and educational rally.
Happy trails, see ya down the road a piece,
Ann Wilson #996
9
Mamie's Million Dollar Fudge
Ike named it this because she frequently made it without a single failure.
12 ounces semisweet chocolate bits
12 ounces German sweet chocolate ( broken in bits)
1 pint marshmallow cream
Pinch of salt
13 ounce can of evaporated milk
4 1/2 cups sugar
2 cups chopped walnuts or pecans
2 Tablespoons butter
In a large bowl combine both types of chocolate, marshmallow cream, & salt. Put milk & sugar in a large heavy pot, bring to a
boil, stirring constantly. Cook & stir for 6-8 minutes. Pour hot milk mixture over chocolate, add nuts & butter & beat until
chocolate is melted and fudge is creamy. Pour into a buttered 9x9" pan and cool at room temperature for a few hours before
cutting into squares.
Makes about 5# of fudge.
TCI Continues To Support Local Charities
The TCI members showed their continued support for charities at the 2015 East Rally.
This year we chose the Adams County Children’s Advocacy Center. This charity cares for abused children of all types in the
Gettysburg area. The director of the charity Tammy Barbour talked to the group explaining what the charity does and how they
have helped the children in the area.
We were able to raise $840 for the charity and as Kay Hooper said we had a group of grandparents helping kids. This was a
great showing of support for our club as there were just 40 members at the rally. Even the owner of the campground gave
money to support the charity.
Trip to the Adams County Winery
W
ednesday was the perfect day to travel about 15 miles from the campground to the Adams County Winery. A truly
gorgeous ride with all the redbud, dogwood, red maple in fields of greenery just coming up. When we arrived, they
divided us into two groups. Our group tasted first some of the six white, seven red and eight fruit and specialty
wines. Brian, our host, brought in several plates of cheese cubes and different crackers.
Then we went with Kim, for a tour of the area. All of us stopped to put a pin in the map where we live. She then showed us
where they hold receptions for weddings and special events. They have several buildings for this plus frames where they put
up tents. On to the stainless steel tanks. Before putting the grapes into the tanks, they stem and crush them, then put into
open top tanks where they add yeast. The yeast eats the sugar and they add carbon dioxide and mash them down three
times a day. One ton of grapes make 160 gallons of wine. They let the sediment settle and then drain into another tank and
keep doing this until the wine is clear. Sulfites are added to take the oxygen out for clarity.
Also they burn wood chips and put them in bags, like tea bags, and put them in the tank.
Then to the bottling room where they first take the air out of the bottles with nitrogen, bottle the wine, put on labels and shrink
wrap them. They box 1200 cases per hour.
Nestled amongst grape vines, apple, peach, and cherry orchards, Adams County Winery is a must see while visiting Gettysburg. It is a true destination.
Darlene Betz #130
10
(continued from pg 1)
For those of you who were not with us at the time, Jeff was the first President of the South East Region and put on the first
rally of that newly formed region, we had a good time but had to have a tractor pull our truck and trailer out of the mud.
Peter and I are hoping to see all of you this September at our International Rally in Indiana. I am sure Dennis and Kathy have
an interesting, informative and fun time planned for our Family of Friends.
Safe travels and stay healthy.
Teton Hugs
Carole Gilfedder, # 64, TCI President
Our First TCI Rally
Gettysburg, PA
On the first afternoon, we walked inside the Artillery Ridge Camp Ground pavilion and were immediately greeted by TCI
member and the Rally Master and Mistress, Jeff and Stephanie Engel. I guess “the newbies” were easy to spot, AND the hellos were very sincere.
The five days went by very quickly. So much to see and do!
We really appreciated the stellar entertainment that the Engels set up: General and Mrs. Lee, General and Mrs. Grant, and the Confederate private who spoke at the Farnsworth House. We learned so much about history, honor, courage, fortitude, and commitment from
these actors.
Our favorite way to get to the tour venues was by our trusty commuter bicycles. With the Gettysburg Visitor Center only 1.6 miles away, we
arrived in 7-10 minutes. The Cyclorama was truly impressive: to think that it is 110 years old and looked so fresh and colorful! They did a
wonderful restoration before installing it into the Visitors Center.
The Visitor Center Museum was overwhelming in all its details. One could easily spend a week reading everything that was presented
there. The film, narrated by Morgan Freeman, set the stage for the Civil War and then discussed America's predicament post-Civil War.
We especially enjoyed the “down time” when we could discuss all things “Teton” with fellow Rally goers. We learned about suspension
systems, proper inflation of tires, rubber gaskets around the slides, proper lubricants, etc. We collected business cards from some of the
participants and intend to contact them with other trailer questions.
We look forward to our next TCI rally!
by Roy and Theresa Simonson #1689
11
A Day In The Life Of “Johnnie Reb”
Following the sumptuous dinner on Thursday evening we were entertained by a Soldier of the Army of
Northern Virginia; a soldier of the Confederacy. This Civil War reenactor presented how a Southern Soldier would be equipped on a campaign. Some of his dress and equipment were provided by his army, the
remainder was provided by the soldier himself.
Starting with his uniform, he detailed how the Southern solder’s jacket was made of a combination of
cotton and wool which was cooler than the Northern all wool clothing. An interesting aside was that this
cotton-wool combination was a predecessor to today’s denim from which jeans are made. The fabric felt
a little rough but allegedly the soldier became accustomed to it.
His trousers were homemade from whatever materials were at hand. While on campaign marches the
soldiers liked to “travel light”. Often they would dump the issued rucksack and carry a bed roll which contained the necessities such as spare socks, other clothing and toiletries. Some even took off and carried
their boots to save the shoe leather. At night the troops just unrolled the blanket and there were all the
necessities.
In addition to the clothing worn, the soldier had arms and equipment to carry into battle. Primary of
course was his rifle; typically a muzzle loader. Ammunition and firing caps were carried in a pouch consisting of 40 rounds. In the days of the War Between the States ammunition consisted of a bullet (mini
ball) and a powder charge wrapped in paper. To load his weapon the soldier would tear off the paper,
ram the charge then the bullet down the barrel and place a firing cap where it would be struck by the
hammer. Clearly this three piece operation left something to be desired and in later years the brass cartridge was invented.
Water was carried in a wooden canteen. These often leaked and the soldier had to refill it often so as not
to lose all his water. He also carried three days rations. These consisted primarily of “hardtack” (a dried
biscuit, sometimes wormy), beans and a piece of salt pork. Other food was procured along the way when
possible.
Throughout the war years of 1861-65 the Southern soldier was a formidable opponent to the Army of the
Potomac. Lightly equipped, he was a fast and mobile fierce fighting man; fighting for the southern cause
that was predicated upon the belief that the states had the right to determine the issue of slave ownership (State’s Rights), whereas President Lincoln, a Republican, did not. And one last thing; the “Rebel
Yell” would send a shiver up a Yankee’s spine YEE_HAW!
Nancy Greig, TCI 789
12
FORK'S RV SAVED OUR TETON EXPERIENCE
We bought our Teton Experience 33 new in 2004. For more than a decade we have enjoyed it on cross country
trips and winter stays in Arizona, Oregon, Texas, Florida, and Louisiana.
After a little remodeling and a built in window seat where the
recliners used to reside, we really liked our Teton. Five years
ago we noticed a little dampness in the rear corner by the
kitchen slide. A referred Teton repair shop did extensive roof
repair and the problem appeared to be solved for a while, but
it soon reappeared, just not as bad. I did the usual to fix it self:
re-caulked, sealant, EternaBond, etc. At times, it seemed to
subside, but after a particularly wet winter in isiana the
problem grew worse. After reading the good re-about Fork’s RV
in Shipshewana, Indiana, we decided to see if they could
remedy the problem once and for all. Little did we know how
widespread the damage was Mold everywhere! Shaun Dikes
and his able crew essentially built a brand new kitchen slide,
rebuilt the exterior wall from the slide to the rear, replaced the
floor in the bedroom slide and installed a new roof.
Shaun kept me informed of the work. The job took 11 weeks and
Shaun stated that it was the most extensive repair that they had
done on a Teton to date. Had this work not been done our Teton
would have been unlivable and on its way to the junk yard. We
feel like we have a brand new RV and are planning to enjoy it for
another decade.
Thanks Shaun, Brad, and Mike for making us happy campers!
David and Marianne Book #1065
13
A MESSAGE FROM SHAUN DIKES, WARRANTY AND SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE of FORKS RV, Inc.:
With the fall season coming more quickly than most of us would like to admit and the unusually wet summer over most of the
country, I would like to address caulking and sealing once again.
In the recent months we have worked on several units with water damage and leaks. Some of the issues stem from the slide
seals coming loose and some has been improper caulking or maintenance.
First, let’s address the slide seals. The seal for your Teton has a steel expanded
metal rib inside that grabs the trim around the opening for your slide and an extra “tab” of rubber with an adhesive strip that seals to the outside. When replacing these seals it is very important to prepare the area correctly. First you need
to remove all the residue of the old seal. We find that using brake and parts
cleaner works best. It still takes a little elbow grease. Next clean the surface with
alcohol. Once you have the surface prepped you may install the new seal. Make
sure that the seal is completely seated onto the trim. (See Brad)
Once the new seal is in place, pull the tab back
and clean
with alcohol then wipe with 3M adhesive promotor/primer.
This will prep the surface to for the adhesive strip
on the back
of the tab to adhere to. Then peel the red film off
of the back of
the tab and run you finger up and down the tab to
make sure all
of it gets seated to the trim. No matter how well
prepped or
how well the tab is adhered, water grabs dirt and
will eventually
work its way under the tab. When we replace the
seals, we will
run a small bead of silicone to the edge of the tab. This will help stop the dirt and water from releasing the tab. Keep in mind,
once the adhesive tab comes loose, water will get into the seal and rust the metal out. This is when your seal will fall off when
you run the slide in or out.
If you follow these steps and make sure you keep the edge of the tab sealed it will last you for years to come.
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The next thing we want to address is caulking. It is very important that you clean old, loose or split caulk off and clean the
area with alcohol before you reapply new.
Our Tech Mike
If you just add more caulk on top of the failed caulking, it will last for a while but won’t last the test of time.
The other thing is makling sure that you use good cauling. Cheap is not the way to go when it comes to caulking.
This is the caulking that we use on the exterior side walls and slide room walls. Locktite caulking works very well. It is durable and Paintable.
Alpha is what we use on the roof. This is a self leveling caulk and does a very good job. There is Alpha in a pink tube also. It
works just as well, but if you have a see thru or smoke colored skylight, DO NOT USE THE PINK TUBE CAULKING. It will actually eat thru the plastic of the skylight. This is a lesson you don’t want to learn the hard way.
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ATTENTION! WE WILL BE AT THE SEPTEMBER RALLY!
Our Techs and I will be at the rally and available for small service repairs Monday through Friday. We will be glad to take care of as many of
your needs as possible. We are looking forward to meeting you and and seeing the rest of you that we have met. Just look for myself or
one of our techs, Brad and Mike.
HOPE TO
BRAD
SEE
YOU
SHAUN
THERE!
MIKE
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2016 West Region Rally
IN Beatty, Nevada
C
ome join us in Beatty, Nevada for a little adventure, a bit of relaxation, and lots of visiting with old and new friends!
Beatty is a nice little town just east of Death Valley National Park. In the area around town you'll find hot springs, a
casino (it's Nevada after all) and the ghost town of Rhyolite with it's fascinating Goldwell Open Air Art Museum.
Like to play horseshoes? There's a fenced horseshoe court just behind our RV park with a dozen sets of pits. Let us
know if you've got horseshoes you can bring. Have other favorite games? Bring 'em along. Plan on some potluck meals and
happy hour gatherings. We'll do a fundraiser for the volunteer fire department and EMT service. So, find that fun item that
everyone will bid on!
Scotty's Castle Tour: In northern Death Valley, far from its nearest neighbors, in an extreme environment, Scotty’s Castle appears to be a mirage in the desert. This beautiful house and complex, was built in the 1920s, with all the comforts one would
expect in an upscale area. We'll visit the castle, have a picnic lunch and drive a few miles to the Ubehebe craters. Here we'll
find a great overlook into a large volcanic crater (dormant, thank heavens) and hiking trails for those ambitious folks who
want to circle the rim or hike to other craters nearby.
At Scotty's Castle our group will choose from a house tour, the underground tour or a combination tour. The house tour includes two stories of this lovely Spanish style “castle” (accessible). The underground tour has many steps but is worth it for
those of us who need to see how people were able to innovate and create technologies to live well, off the grid. The tours are
given by park rangers in period costume who stay in character as they tell Scotty’s story.
Catered Dinner: The excellent little Cafe across the street from our park is normally open just for breakfast and lunch (You'll
all want to try their breakfasts. They're wonderful)! They'll open up especially for our catered dinner. The chef has a good reputation in town – has promised us three entree choices – prime rib, chicken and vegetarian. We're still firming up the menu
and pricing but will contact everyone who will be attending with the final information.
The Cowboys: These local entertainers will join us one evening. Let's all wear our western duds for that night's barbeque! Yahoo!
Other Options:
We'll plan an optional day trip to the southern part of Death Valley. There's beautiful scenery and historical sites plus a stop at
Badwater Basin with the lowest elevation in the country. You'll want to bring your camera for this and all of our outings!
We recommend taking the Titus Canyon drive. Carpool in a high-clearance vehicle. Bring plenty of water and some food. It will
take over three hours to reach the main road in Death Valley. You can incorporate this with a visit to the southern part of the
park but it will be an all-day trip.
The Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge is worth a trip, From there it's a short drive to the Amargosa Opera House.We'll
find out what performance will be given there while we're all in town.
Tudy & Jake Jacobson, #1041
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2016 TCI West Region Rally
April 2 - April 9, 2016
Pay As You Go Rally Activities Are:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
7 Nights Camping with Full Hookups*
1 Dinner
1 Pizza Supper
1 Continental Breakfast
Potluck Meals
Picnic BBQ with "The Cowboys"
Scotty’s Castle Tour plus Ubehebe Craters
Death Vally Inn & RV Park
651 South Hwy 95
Beatty, Nevada 89003
RV Park 775-553-9702, Inn (775) 553-9400
www.deathvalleyaccommodations.com
Directions: Beatty is located 100 miles north of Las Vegas,
Nevada on Hwy. 95. Death Valley Resort is on your left as you
enter Beatty from the south.
* Camping fee is $228.90 for the 7 night full hookup.
You will pay your camping fee the day you check in
directly to the campground. .
Early arrivals/late stays welcome,
Contact the Park directly at 775 - 553 - 9702
Extend your stay for up to 2 days before or after the rally for $30
per night.
NAME: Last _______________________________ First ____________________ Spouse /Companion____________________________
Address _____________________________________________________________________ Email ___________________________
City _____________________________ State ____________________ ZIP _____________________ TCI Number ________________
Number of Adults ______________ Guests ________________ Telephone ________________________________________________
RV Make/Model:___________________
Length of RV: _____________
Towed:___________ Hauler/Length:________________
Do you require anything special due to health or other concerns? ________________________________________________________
Scotty's Castle Tour (All per person pricing , 50% discount for National Park Pass)
Please indicate number of people attending each tour.
House Tour $15 _______
Underground Tour $15 _________
House & Underground $25 ________
Please choose catered dinner choice:
Prime Rib ______
Chicken ______
Vegetarian ______
Additional Death Valley and area Attractions: Titus Canyon , South Park Tour: Badwater Basin & Artists Pallet drive, Harmony
Borax Works trail, Zabriskie Point. Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, Amargosa Opera House, and China Ranch Date Farm .
Additional Cost We'll collect money to cover miscellaneous items (pizza dinner, barbecue,
“The Cowboys”, administrative costs, etc.) at the rally.
Registration Form Due
December 15, 2015
ALL PARTICIPANTS MUST SIGN THE FOLLOWING:
Questions? Contact: Rally Hosts
Tudy and Jake Jacobson #1041
[email protected]
612-790-2227
The undersigned hereby releases and agrees to indemnify and hold harmless, Teton Club International and regional officers of any and all liabilities, claims,
losses, damages, injuries and reasonable attorney fees which may rise as a result from, or relate to this rally; or the negligence, omissions or lack of care of
its officers during the time period specified above. Cancellation in accordance with TCI by-laws.
Signature: _____________________________________ Date: _________
Signature: _____________________________________ Date: _________
2015 INTERNATIONAL TCI RALLY IN ELKHART, IN
Sept 20 through Sept 26, 2015
Pre Rally Sept 18 through Sept 19, 2015
Post Rally Sept 27 through 28, 2015
The time is now to sign up for the next exciting International Rally which is being held in Elkhart, IN, the
RV capital of the world. I promise that you will not be disappointed or bored at this rally. We have so
many opportunities open to us in this region. We will have seminars from representatives of manufactures of products that we use in our RVs. Dometic is located in the area and you know that they make a
lot of items for RV use including refrigerators, awnings furnaces, water heaters to name a few. Dexter
axle and brakes are also in the area along with Mor-Ryde. From axles to roofing to new furniture to water
systems, entertainment systems everything that you could want to see will either be at the rally or close
at hand.
In addition to Seminar Day we will have a day for vendors to show off their latest and greatest. Of course
you will be given an opportunity to buy these latest must-haves and have them installed at a reduced
price.
We will have plenty of entailment for your enjoyment and tours of plants and manufactures’. You will not
be bored. Of course we will visit the best surplus yards and give you time to explore all their items at
your own pace.
Most of the meals will be provided to you so no one has to worry about food shopping and meal preparations. The only meals that you will have on your own are lunches and we are still trying to get manufactures’ to buy us lunch. We will be visiting at least two RVs manufacturing plants to see how their units
are built.
There is so much to do in the area that Kathy and I have decided to make available to you what we are
calling a pre rally and a post rally. This will occur the two days before the rally and the two days following
the rally.
We will also need your shirt sizes so please include them on the back of your application. For those who
have already submitted their applications you will be contacted. Come and join us at Elkhart, we will
greatly appreciate it.
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Announcements
NEWEST TETON AVAILABLE!
2008 Royal Reliance 44 ft.
Any Tetoners passing through Ohio and need an over night
stop
A full-timers dream with twin beds and all the extras.
Asking $89,900.00, Or Best Reasonable Offer.
Contact R. David Doerr , #1515 at 740-398-3530
Contact Darrell Korman #1556 for price and pictures.
They are in the Fredericktown.
830-496-0712 or [email protected]
2007 Teton Liberty 36’ & 2004 Freightliner Columbia
Teton- 3 axles. Light oak interior, queen bed, GE washer & Dryer, Direct TV with auto-track vision, Hughes net satellite, Michelin tires-22K mi. on tires, 40K
on trailer, #7000 towing pkg. on trailer, Dexter brake activator, 4 automatic jacks, power master voltage regulator, VC-50.
Truck- Freightliner Columbia 112 MBE4000 Mercedes-Benz 450 H.P. paddle shift, pressure pro for truck & trailer & tires, sleeper cab, camera for tow vehicle, Bed of truck- trail hauler by Wil-Ro, 85K mi. on truck, 18K mi. on tires (Michelin), Honda Generator, air brakes- suspension & seats, air bags on hitch.
$42,000.00 for Truck & $35,000.00 for Teton Hom
Contact: Orris L. Mosby
Phone: (618)806-0327 or email: mailto:[email protected]
2005 CUSTOM 39’ TETON GRAND FRONTIER
$45,900
This unit was built to our specifications:
Chassis: Three 8000lb. axles with Mor/ryde Independent Suspension and hydraulic disc brakes with “G”
rated tires. We also added a skid roller.
Heating & Cooling: Two 34,00 BTU furnaces. Two 15,000 BTU air conditioners/heat pumps. 3 Fantastic Fans.
Electrical: Generator prep with 50Amp service located at the front and rear of 5th wheel. with a transfer switch. Whole house surge protector. Hughes 50
amp Autoformer. A 2500watt Prosine inverter with 4 12 volt batteries 3 120 watt solar panels. 4 dedicated 20 amp outlets, located in the entertainment
area , the computer area, kitchen, and in the bay, all of which can be run from the inverter/solar panels.
Interior: Custom oak wood throughout, including headboard, custom cabinet above bed, solid oak around all slides and window valances.
GE Spacemaker washer and a separate GE Spacemaker dryer, an Amana Radarange convection/microwave oven, an Amana stove range with oven. Two
pantries with slideout adjustable shelves, solid surface counter with flip extension in kitchen. Tile floor in bathroom and kitchen area. Sealand china toilet.
This is a non-smoking no pet unit that has been lived in at -20 degrees with no problems.
Contact Rick McHugh #401: [email protected]
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Welcome New Members
NEW MEMBERS
Charles DiBari #1692
2410 Tiffiny Ct.
Sulvania, OH 43560
No Phone
[email protected]
Ryan & Beth Teasley #1693
411 N. 6th PMB # 2021
Emery, SD 57332
No Phone
[email protected]
Lawrence & Judith (JJ) Jamison
#1694
2810 Sunnywood Ave.
Woodland Park, CO 80863
719-258-9535
ADDRESS CHANGE
TELEPHONE CHANGE
EMAIL CHANGE
#55
Carol Atkins
[email protected]
NAME CORRECTION
REJOINS
Gaylon & Linda Eudy #1570
404 W. Walnut St..
Jonesboro, IL 62952
[email protected]
[email protected]
Sam Brough & Edye Sessions
#1695
196 Rainbow Dr. #9613
Livingston, TX 77399-1096
[email protected]
Submit Articles
The newsletter is published quarterly in February, May, August, and November. Deadline for articles is
the 20th of the month preceding publication. All letters, articles, art, and photographs are subject to editing, alteration, or may be condensed.
Please email all articles to:
W
Laura Schrock #1407, Editor [email protected]
Editorial Philosophy
e are a Family of Friends, dedicated to the promotion and enjoyment of our Teton or Continental
Coach RVs and the camaraderie of our members. Reflecting this, the newsletter is looking for
positive and upbeat articles that we would be proud to share with everyone, including our children. There will be no profanity or “off-color” articles in the newsletter: anything that needs to be said
can be said in an adult manner. While we encourage technical articles that point out problems and offer
solutions, we will not print negative articles that directly attack TCI, its Members, or Forks RV.
The newsletter doesn’t accept advertising but will print notices of sale for a club member's Teton trailer
and/or tow vehicle. Following TCI Board guidelines: sale notices will be brief, including member name,
and TCI number; vehicle/trailer make, model and age; a few descriptive words; and the member’s phone
number and/or address.
Laura Schrock #1407, Editor
22
20__ TCI International
[ REVISION: NOV 2014 ]
LAST NAME _____________________ FIRST _________________ SPOUSE /COMPANION ___________
ADDRESS _________________________________________________________________________
CITY ____________________________________________ STATE __________ ZIP ____________
TCI NUMBER _________ TELEPHONE _________________ EMAIL ___________________________
TRAILER/RV MODEL, YEAR ____________________ TRUCK MAKE & YEAR _______________________
PLEASE CIRCLE ANY/ALL REGIONAL TCI CLUBS YOU ARE JOINING (or re-joining):
MAKE OUT YOUR $25.00 (US FUNDS)
DUES CHECK TO: TETON
Check here if this address is
different from your mailing label or
other TCI information and you wish to
have it changed.
E
W
CLUB INTERNATIONAL, AND MAIL TO:
TCI, Sec./Treas.
3916 N. Potsdam Ave #2590
Sioux Falls, SD 57104-7048
[email protected]
Regional Club Membership Dues
Please fill out the membership dues form below, and send your check for $10.00 (US funds) to the Treasurer
for the Region you are joining. Duplicate the form, or include the information below on a sheet of paper, for
more than one Region. [ Revision: May 2015 ]
LAST NAME ____________________ FIRST _________________ SPOUSE /COMPANION ____________
ADDRESS __________________________________________________________________________
CITY __________________________________ STATE/PROVINCE ____________ ZIP ______________
TCI NUMBER _________ TELEPHONE _________________ EMAIL ____________________________
TETON MODEL/RV/YEAR _____________ REGION JOINING _______________ AMOUNT ENCLOSED ______
MAKE CHECK PAYABLE TO: ____________REGION TCI
U.S. FUNDS (Example:West Region TCI)
MAIL TO:
East Region:
West Region:
Jerry Yoesting #1376 Sec/Treas.
PO Box 95
New Carlisle, OH 45344
[email protected]
Karen Cole #1504
230 Rainbow Dr. PMB 13031
Livingston, TX 77399-2013
[email protected]
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