February 2022

From FCRV Retiree Directors Ron & Reba Ray

Hello Retirees,

We are once again, pushing for registrations for the 2022 International Retiree Rally in Mineola, Texas on March 29- April 3, with early days starting on March 25.  We need those registrations in so we know how many to plan far.

The Retiree Rally will take place this year.  Just be aware, and do what is best for you; we think we will all be safe.  Hand sanitizer stations are at each door, and we will have more around the building.   If you prefer to wear a mask, that is up to you; it will not be required.  Use your own judgment.

Most of us will have our shots and boosters at this time.

“FISHIN’ FOR 50”……that’s Kip and Jan Cushing’s, 2022 Rally Coordinators, theme for 2022.  50 years of FCRV Retiree Rallies, and 50 years of friendship for a lot of us.  Let’s keep this party going, by coming and seeing old friends and making new ones.  We would like to fix up a poster board and see how many FCRV/NCHA Retiree Rallies you have attended.  So be thinking of when you attended your first one and where it was held.  We will try to post this somewhere in the vendors area.

We are having a great surprise this year on the early days.  The Pilot Club and the Lake County Play House is sponsoring a Mystery Theater on Saturday night, March 26.  Tickets will be available for you to attend.  The Tickets must be paid for in advance.  Cut-off time will be March 19 to lock in your tickets.  Look for the information at the bottom of this letter for how to obtain tickets.  A meal will be served along with other things going on. This is a fundraiser project with proceeds going to Brain Health and Brain Safety, Alzheimer’s, etc.

We look forward in seeing everyone in Mineola

Safe Travels
Ron & Reba Ray
FCRV National Retiree Directors
[email protected]

FISHIN’ FOR 50

By Jan & Kip Cushing, Rally Coordinators

By the time you read this, it will only be a little more than a month until “Fishin’ for 50” in Mineola, TX.  It has been almost three years that we have been thinking about and planning for this rally.  Don’t let the work of those on the various committees go unrecognized.  The committee chairman positions have been filled.  There are plenty of areas that you can volunteer to help with when you get to the rally.

So, if you haven’t already registered, “Take the Bait” and get your registration in for “Fishing for 50”!

POOCH🐶PARADE 50

by Robert & Rita Letellier, Pet Parade Chairs

Cats are invited. 🐱

There will be treats, awards and a gift for all participants. There will be awards and gifts for all winners.  The awards will be given out on awards day. These are the winning titles. 

1.   Most Adorable
2.   Best Behaved
3.   Best Trick
4.   Owner-pet Look-a-like
5.   Dog – Best In Show
6.   Cat – Best in Show

We are ready to see everyone.  Can’t wait.

Food Pantry/Lap Robes Info

by Beth Standiford, Food Pantry/Lap robes Chair

Those attending the upcoming Retiree Rally in Mineola, Texas, are asked to remember to please bring donations for the local food bank.

Mineola has a wonderful food bank known as Kindness Kottage (316 E. Broad Street, Mineola, TX 75773).  Established in 1983, this 501(c)(3) organization offers more than food to those in need in the area; they also offer emergency assistance with utilities and prescription drugs.  Emergency assistance is offered on a financial cap per client. United Way, various local churches as well as donations from private individuals and companies like Walmart and the Salvation Army support this Food Pantry.  They host a resale shop, and you are encouraged to stop in while you’re in the area.  In addition to canned and dry food donations, any cash donated to the pantry goes toward supplementing the needs of the locals. 

In addition, those wishing to make/donate lap robes will be pleased to know that those donations will be delivered to the Mineola Heights Health Care Center, (716 Mimosa Street, Mineola, TX 75773).  They specialize in short-and-long term care and would greatly benefit by your donation.   

Thanking you in advance for remembering the needs of others.

From the Crafty Ladies

Judy Elenburg, Dora Lewis, Sandi Wingert, and Shari Weber are looking forward to crafting with you in Mineola Texas. We have planned three crafts for you. You are welcome to do them all or whichever ones strike your fancy. We are going to feature one craft each month until March. So, let’s get our craft on!

Bracelet

By Dora Lewis

This craft is easy for all levels of ability.  There are two basic processes, stringing beads and tying a square knot.  You go away with a bracelet to enjoy.  Each bracelet will cost between $5 and $6 (passing on cost of beads).  You are encouraged to make more than one if you wish.  These bracelets layer well.

Dora Lewis is the lead on this craft with Shari & Sandi offering assistance.

Let’s get our game on in MINEOLA!

By Craig & Shari Weber, Games Chairs

The always popular bean bag baseball gets everyone either playing or watching. On game day we will need some scorekeeper and umpire volunteers. Come with a team already set. If you are not part of a team, we will be taking names to form a team or teams. 

Ladder golf and washer toss will also be played. Cornhole is a game enjoyed by many. Since the retirees do not have boards, we ask that you bring boards; we will need several sets. The only way we can play is with your help in assuring we have boards.

Fun and entertaining are the frog races. Watching everyone develop a strategy for getting their frog to the other side is hilarious.

Many of us enjoy a variety of card and table games as well. Card bingo draws a big crowd. There will be space to place pick-up games throughout the rally.

Anyone interested in helping with a particular game or just in general, please send a message to us at [email protected].

Mystery Dinner Theater

Saturday, March 26, 2022
6pm – 9 pm
Mineola Civic Center

The Pilot Club of Mineola and the Lake County Playhouse have invited whoever would like to attend their Mystery Dinner Theater on one of the early days of our 2022 International Retiree Rally in Mineola, Texas.

The Mystery Theater will be a 3-act play fundraiser for the Pilot Club, which is an International Service Club with a focus of Brain Health and Brain Safety such as Alzheimer’s and Traumatic Brain Injury.

The charge will be $35 per person for the show and meal that must be paid in advanced.   Tickets can be purchased by mailing in your check to: Joyce Curry, P.O. Box 3, Mineola, Texas 75773 Phone: 903-850-2121.  Email: [email protected]

Tables will sit 6 to 8 people.  If there is someone you want to sit with, let them know, and they will try to accommodate you.  All tables will be close together.

Other things that will be going on that night:

The Pilot Club also sponsors the Anchor Club at Mineola High School, which is an International Service Organization for teens.  They will be selling purses for $20 per purse.  Buyers will have a chance to win a Name Brand Purse.

There will be a Bucket Prizes that night, $5 for 6 tickets or $1 per ticket.  Winning tickets will receive prizes valued from $50-$100.

A live auction will be held for wine baskets, vacations and other exciting prizes.

Sounds like a fun-filled Saturday night, with lots of things going on in 3 hours.  If you plan to attend, please send in your name to get your tickets for this event.

Flea Market Vendors Wanted

by Richard & Frances Jackson, Flea Market Chairs

We are fishing for Flea Market participants. Bring items you would like to sell, and we will have a free booth for you to dock!

ELECTING RETIREE KING AND QUEEN TRADITION

     The first annual Retiree Rally came from the idea that retired ‘Snow Birds’ who spend their winters in the sun belt would like to get together for a big campout or rally. The first one was  organized in 1972 and held at Harlingen, TX with past NCHA President, Joh Grant and Stu and Estelle Reed at the helm. From that rally, came the suggestion that since states and provinces have Kings and Queens, there should be a competition among them for the title of International Retiree King and Queen to represent the large Retiree (specialty) Chapter made up of members from all across both the U.S. and Canada. The first couple elected was  Maynard & Margaret Dakin from Nova Scotia in 1973.

     The largest attendance at a Retiree Rally was in Harlingen in 1975 headed by Paul & Renny West with  600 units on grounds. King & Queen that year were Art & Barbara Betros of Oklahoma. (Complete list on FCRV web site, www.fcrv.org under Retiree Rally History). The most Retiree Rallies were held in Texas with 19, then Florida with 13. Others were held at AZ, LA, and SC The 2020 and 2021 Rallies were cancelled due to covid. The 2022 Rally will be in Mineloa, TX, Marcch29th – April 23rd with early days Friday, March  25th – 28th ($35 a night). Registration form is on the FCRV website under Retiree Rally. Also see the updates and activity information in recent Camping Today issues and the FCRV web site. The 2023 Rrally is scheduled for Dothan, Alabama.

Ed And Vina Haggerty, Illinois Retiree King & Queen

Hello. We are Ed and Vina Haggerty from Mascoutah, Illinois and are running for FCRV International King & Queen. We have been married for 43 years and have two children, a girl and a boy. They are both married and they also have a girl and a boy. Vina and I are both retired Air Force. I served 20 years and Vina served 22 ½ years, a fact that she never lets me forget. I was in the communications field and Vina was in Medical Administration. 

During our marriage we have traveled throughout Europe. We have also visited 44 states and briefly traveled in Canada and Mexico. We have been associated with NCHA and now FCRV since 1988. We love the RV lifestyle and enjoy driving our motorhome from Maine to Florida or California. If invited, we will come.

We have spent a lifetime in service to our country. We promise to continue that commitment of service to the FCRV Retirees. We would be honored to represent you as your International King and Queen.

SOUTH CAROLINA KING AND QUEEN

We are Phil and Joann Rich from Greenwood South Carolina. We retired in 2016 and m oved from Connecticut to South Carolina. Phil and Joanne have been married 54 years, have children and 2 grandchildren.

Joann likes to travel, camp enjoying the fellowship of our FCRV friends, and meet new people. She also does quilting, scrap booking, making greeting cards, and working in her garden. Joann works at the Hospice Thrift Store and currently holds the position of State and Retiree Program Director.

Joanne and Phil belonged to the Happy Wanderers Chapter while living in Connecticut. She was State Historian for a time and worked on teen pageants and Connecticut Floats. They were instrumental in introducing our state of South Carolina to Amazing Warriors Fight Big  Battles, where our chapter, Palmetto Retirees sends cards, stickers, and other items to a child with DIPG, which is terminal brain cancer.

Phil and Joann have worked at National Campventions and Retiree Rallies. They like meeting new friends, talking about camping  and  the FCRV organization, which they have been  members off and on for 30 years.

KANSAS KING & QUEEN STEVE AND DIANE HITCHENS

Steve & Diane have been married for 45 years.!  Their first night camping together was on their honeymoon! And have had several campers since but did not discover FCRV until they bought their Mini Winnie in 2013.  They have been very active since then.  They are currently the VP’s for the Kansas Retiree Chapter and Secretary of KCA.  They have always helped at State functions and have always enjoyed helping with Registration, golf carts, shuttles, parking, door prizes and Security at Retirees and Campvention .

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The Hitchens have 2 children and 4 grandchildren that all live in Topeka so they get to play a lot!!  They enjoy traveling, camping and working on their new “old” house.  Diane likes to go on line or garage sales to find just the right antiques and other great things for the house.  They enjoy using the house for crafting and other events.  Diane loves doing genealogy research for her ancestors and has helped many others with theirs.  Steve is a licensed ham radio enthusiast (KE0MNW) and enjoys making contacts with other “hams” and preparing for emergency communications. (We’re shrinking the globe !)  He also likes to tinker around the house and RV.  (He can fix nearly ANYTHING!)  They both love camping and traveling.  They always seem to meet new people from all over while traveling and camping. (and sharing information about FCRV) You never know where they will turn up!

They would really appreciate your vote for retiree king and queen in 2022!

[Click Here For Full Event Calendar]

Someone told me to take a hike – so I did!

by Pat Wittmeyer

“My daughter asked for a favor, and gave me a gift.”  That is how I begin my stories when telling friends about my recent adventures out west.

It all started when my daughter, a wildlife technician recently working in Shaver Lake, CA, asked me to fly out and help her get her car home in time for Thanksgiving.  It would be a demanding journey, and she was seeking company and a second driver to help get it done.  At first I was reluctant – the expense of flying out, the full day of travel and lingering in airports….but then she sweetened the pot: “I’ll take you up Angel’s Landing”. OK!  I readily agreed.  Angel’s Landing is an arduous demanding trail in Zion National Park.  With an elevation change of roughly 1500 feet, and narrow trails with 800 ft. drop offs on either side, it is not for the fainthearted, nor for the weekend warrior type.  It, along with a brief stopover in King’s Canyon National Park to see some truly amazing Sequoias, was also an item on my Bucket List, and she knew that.  So the adventure began…

Hiking boots, walking poles, backpack of water and snacks, sunhat and layers of jackets secured, we were off in the early morning hours, catching the shuttle bus to the trailhead.

Seen from the beginning of the trail, this picture shows the ultimate destination on the top of that point of rock: Angel’s Landing.  It was a clear, cool day with plenty of sunshine. We climbed a series of ‘gentle’ switchbacks, climbing ever upward.  Jacket number one came off.  Note to self, slow down on the water, I only brought so much!  After the first set (wait!  There’s more of these things????) of switchbacks we passed through a very narrow canyon, in some spots only a few dozen feet wide.  We came out of the canyon to the base of a torture course known as “Walter’s Wiggles”.  Good ol’ Walter thought it would be an easier way (!) to get to the ‘beginning’ of the hard part of the course by carving out a set of 11 switchbacks, climbing ever upward in the process.  We ascended out of the canyon, and arrived at Scout Lookout, a natural wide spot to take a break, (and yes, there is a bathroom  up there!!) then regroup, apply more sunscreen and head up.

This is where the “chains” begin.  The chains are a series of heavy-duty chains attached to posts set deep into the rock.  They are essential for a somewhat safer climb (Let’s face it, this was NOT a safe climb by any measure.  Some have indeed lost their lives on this trail.) and used to pull myself up along the rockface.  Yep, those are my feet in the picture of the narrowest part of the trail, and we haven’t gotten to the top yet.

We are not alone on our journey.  Even though it is late November, there are literally hundreds of people stretched out along the 2.5 mile trail.  We are passing them in the canyon, along Walter’s godforsaken Wiggles, and even on the chains.  For the most part these hiking enthusiasts are a courteous group; a batch of people goes up the chains while another batch of people waits to descend, standing in a very little “wide spot” on the trail, always holding on to that precious chain.  If you slip, or are seeking the next foot hold, there is always a ready hand to help pull you up, speak words of encouragement, or point out a good way up a particularly challenging section. 

There are so many people enjoying the National Parks during the COVID pandemic that the trail to Angel’s Landing will require pre-registration beginning after the first of the new year.  Because even in November, there were times where we were in gridlock on some pretty challenging sections of this path.  It was reported that during the summer months the trail was almost completely filled with hikers, and nearly impossible to move.

Eventually we make it to the top platform of the trail.  This is me and my daughter, who has done the trail once before.  We celebrated her birthday on that trail, and viewed some of the most incredible scenery, overlooking the canyon below from our perch above.

I looked around at the hikers enjoying the noontime sunshine, cooling breeze and yes, even some guitar music from an intrepid young man who brought one up to share his music with other hikers.  With a bit of surprise, I noted that I was, at age 62, definitely the oldest person up there that day. Amy’s response was simple and succinct: “Ya think?”  There had been moments on that trail upward (it was ALWAYS upward!!) that I needed to pause, take a breather, or just regroup for the next step.  I apologized to the people waiting below, but no one was ever annoyed, and almost everyone offered remarks of support and encouragement.

Amy and I enjoyed the vista below us for a while, and she pointed out the scar where a recent rockslide on a nearby rock face had plummeted to the canyon floor far below.  After resting (Recuperating? Recovering?  Seeking a trained psychotherapist to help me figure out why I had set myself upon this path???) snacking and many pictures, we began the journey down.  While easier in terms of physical strength, it was still a challenge to find the right footing for the descent.  Many times I turned around and backed down the trail, a tactic which definitely helped on the sketchy rock face, and created some humor for my fellow hikers.  Imagine looking up and seeing THAT coming at ya! When we returned to Scout Lookout, we saw a pair of California Condors soaring over the canyon, no doubt looking for their next meal.  There were also several very fat chipmunks running around on the rocks; clearly hikers were ignoring the signs advising them not to feed wildlife.  These pudgy little rascals were quite ready to hibernate in the coming months!

Descending the trail back down onto the canyon floor was less demanding, but even then I needed some rest stops.  During one of these stops we talked with a woman who was working her way through the National Parks, hoping to visit each and every one of them.  She had a good head start – she was a National Parks ranger posted to Glacier National Park in Alaska.

We eventually made it back to the trailhead; Amy had budgeted 4 hours for the hike, but I took six.  We headed out and made it to our hotel a few hours behind schedule.  We still had a nice birthday dinner before getting to the hotel.  A quick shower and I hit the sack.  I never slept so well as I did that night!!

We hit the road in the morning and made good time over the next two days.  We even managed to get in a side trip to the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, catching one of the last tram rides to the top.  Nature rewarded us with a gorgeous sunset over the city skyline.

This was a trip that demanded all I had to offer, and then some.  I found strength I didn’t know I had, a determination to keep going, and a sense of wonder at the amazing world around me.  Thanks, Aim, for asking for a favor!

Be Bear Aware

Stories from the Field: The Adventures of a Wildlife Technician

by Amy Wittmeyer

During my summer 2021 job in Shaver Lake, CA, my crew encountered many critters in the field, including bears. While most bear encounters were brief and resulted in the bear being scared away with no problem, I had one encounter with three of my crew members that proved to be difficult and potentially even dangerous. It was a late afternoon in early October when my field partner, Taylor, and I began setting up camp for the week at an empty campground in Sequoia National Forest. Shortly after, fellow crew members Chris and Abby joined our campsite, as they would be working nearby that week as well. The evening passed with little fanfare and we stayed up well past dark, stargazing and chatting about whatever came to mind until the fall chill dropped below a tolerable level and we turned in for the night. 

As I was fussing about in my tent preparing for bed and the next work day, we heard loud rustling from across the camp area. The two boys took it upon themselves to go investigate while Abby and I continued to prepare for bed. They started shouting at something, which was not immediately concerning, given that it could have been anything from a fox to a deer to a bear. However, the shouting soon grew louder and more anxious. Abby and I grabbed our headlamps and went to join the boys and realized that they were yelling at a very large bear rummaging through trash left behind at the campsite by firefighters the week before. The bear was wholly unbothered by our presence and even took a step or two towards the boys before Abby and I got there. Eventually, Chris and Taylor grabbed a work truck and drove at the bear with headlights on bright and horn blaring until it lumbered off. They didn’t seem to be convinced that the bear would stay away, and they were correct. 

Not half an hour later, at around 10:00 at night (far past our usual work night bedtimes), the bear returned to the large pile of yummy food and garbage. Chris and Taylor agreed to go attempt to drive it off again, grumbling good-naturedly about having to wrangle a bear in their boxers. Abby and I listened from our tents to the truck horn honking throughout the campground as they attempted to chase the bear away to no avail. Eventually, the boys returned to camp and told us that they thought it would be best to leave the campground as the bear was obviously not going anywhere. We all agreed there was a very good chance that once the bear was finished with the garbage, he would come to bother us.

So, at 10:30 at night in 40-degree temperatures, we packed our gear as best we could and headed out to try to find another camping spot. Twenty minutes later and several miles down the highway, we managed to find a ragged clearing at the end of a side road that was supposed to lead to a campground we could not find in the dark. Tired, cold, and mildly disgruntled, we set up our tents, bade each other goodnight, and went to bed. When we returned from the field at the end of the week, we reported the incident to our supervisors, and the garbage was cleared when we returned the following week.

My story is not unusual and will become even more common as black and grizzly bears become more comfortable in campgrounds and rural neighborhoods. Irresponsible trash disposal and food storage, along with purposeful feeding of bears, are major threats to the safety of both bears and humans. Like wildlife and environmental agencies say, “a fed bear is a dead bear.” As mother bears become comfortable around humans, they teach their cubs how to find garbage and the cycle worsens. Most bears that lose their fear of humans and get into our garbage become aggressive, dangerous, and often need to be put down. It is very easy to help mediate this problem. Many resources exist on how to camp and live safely with bears, and can be found online, in most state or national parks as signs or pamphlets, or in books at the library. Most importantly, never approach bears or offer them food of any kind, and keep food stored securely in trailers or cars when camping. Bears are wonderful animals to share the forest with, and most wild, unhabituated bears can live peacefully around human developments and campgrounds. As we continue to expand our presence into the forests they call their home, it is up to us to ensure respectful and safe interactions with bears and wildlife of all kinds. 

ECO Method For Holding Tanks 

By Jim Lewis

We live in our RV for months and months at a time. We see all the special cleaning supplies being marketed and sold at the RV shops and big box stores for your black and grey tanks. 

For years we have used the ECO method. 

First, keep your valves closed except for when you are dumping. This includes your grey tank. If not the water will just run out and leave a coating of heavy solids coating the bottom of the tanks.

Now ECO method, empty your tanks, flush and close your valves. Add 10-15 gallons of water, put about 2 ozs or 1/4  cup of Blue Dawn dish washing detergent and a cap full of Calgon Water Softner (buy from Walmart or Amazon)( can’t find it in any other stores,). Now drive 50-100 miles to slosh and clean your tanks. Dump and rinse. We do this every couple of weeks as we travel. Our gages still work great.

You can add the water and Dawn at home before you leave an then dump as soon as you arrive at a campground. 

How To Make Your Campfire Sparkle

By Jerry Zimmerman

It’s very easy to add color to your campfire. All that you need is copper pipe andPVC garden hose. I like to use ¾ to 1” copper pipe. Cut the copper to about 6” lengths and put the same size piece of plastic or PVC garden hose into the pipe. You may have to split the hose to make it fit into the pipe. DO NOT USE A RUBBER HOSE. Any color PVC hose will work. People give me their old garden hoses, but unfortunately few like to give me the copper pipe. (I don’t know why).Don’t forget to retrieve your burnt out copper pipe the campfire next morning. You can use it over and over until it just finally disintegrates. Enjoy.

 Latest NHSTA RV Recalls

Play-Mor Trailers Inc. is recalling 42 2017-2020 3 Room Actor, 2 Room Actor, 2 Room Office, Hair and Makeup, Restroom, 2020 Single Actor, 2019-2020 Motorsport SUV, and 2017 199 Camping Trailer, and Custom BBQ trailers equipped with Winntec model 6020 two-stage propane regulators. The regulator may fail, causing an increase in propane pressure.

• Forest River Inc. is recalling 82 2022 Cherokee Toy Hauler vehicles. The Tire and Loading Information placard label may indicate incorrect rim information. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 120, “Wheels and Rims-Other Than Passenger Cars” and 567, “Certification.”
• Ford Motor Company is recalling 19,697 2021 Super Duty F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, F-600, and Medium Duty F-650 and F-750 vehicles equipped with 6.7L diesel engines. A small void may be present in the top-center of the vehicle’s underhood secondary fuel filter cap, which may progress to a pinhole over time, allowing fuel to leak from the top of the secondary fuel filter.
• Keystone RV Company (Keystone) is recalling 407 2022 Alpine and Avalanche vehicles. The vehicles may be equipped with an exterior ladder that is not properly secured to the rear wall of the vehicle.
• Heartland Recreational Vehicles LLC  is recalling 2,363 2021-2022 Cyclone, Fuel, Gravity, and Warrior vehicles equipped with certain Sailun tires, sizes ST235/80R16 and ST235/85R16. Due to a manufacturing issue, the tires may experience a belt separation.

THIS N’ THAT

Remote Control miniature car racing has been around for several years and is growing in popularity particularly at senior RV parks across the country. Many have made dirt tracks and some even paved tracks. For $300 – $500 you can get a competitive car.  In S. Texas there is a circuit of parks that rub championship finals just like the ‘big boys’ at NASACAR. Who 

Kristi Collier who has been following Winter Texans who stay at RV Parks in the Rio Grande Valley in her weekly column for over 14 years has noticed a change in tastes at many parks. She says that  there is less square dancing and more line dancing, pickle ball is almost everywhere, RC tracks, frisbee golf, dog parks, and other amenities. Winter Texans don’t seem quite as old as they used to due to a high activity level and socializing. Jams are not just country but include other music. Professional entertainment has also improved. RV parks in other sun belt areas are adapting as well. 

The Whitehouse has announced a 10 year plan to treat and maintain millions of additional acres wildfires of forests in the Western United States. The goal is to reduce the severity of seasonal wildfires by treating, pruning, trimming and controlled burning. The fund has a 3 million dollar  starter with 50  million to be added over time. The Wildfire Crisis Strategy will prioritize  AZ, CO, CA, OR, and WA.

The Battlefield d at Gettysburg National Military Park is haunted not by the Civil War soldiers who died there, but by vultures that use the park for a winter roost. It is believed that the vultures were drawn there after the battle and after the bodies were removed the birds dined on the flesh of the dead horses left behind. The park has become a permanent roosting site for up to 900 vultures. The park removes overgrown brush to maintain the ecology.

The Canadian RV Association is excited to announce that the Toronto Spring Camping and RV Show will take place March 3-6th with strict COVID protocols.

BURLINGTON, ONTARIO, CANADA, January 25, 2022 — On January 21st, Premier Ford and the Provincial Government of Ontario announced a plan to lift certain public health and safety measures effective January 31st including cinemas, restaurants, bars, non-spectator areas of sports and recreational fitness facilities, including gyms; and meeting and event spaces.

In the release, the Ontario government further revealed that it will follow a careful phased approach to gradually easing COVID-19 restrictions with 21 days between each step and that capacity limits in indoor public settings where proof of vaccination is required including meeting and event centres can go back to 100% capacity on February 21st, two weeks before The Toronto Spring Camping and RV Show is currently scheduled.

While we are extremely pleased to hear that the Ministry of Health and the Premier of Ontario are anticipating that the peak of the 4th wave is near and that our public professionals believe that it is a secure time to loosen restrictions, please be assured that the health and safety of our exhibitors, attendees and staff will continue to be our # 1 priority.

The Toronto Spring Camping and RV Show, working alongside Ontario Health and The International Centre have developed the following COVID policy for our event this year scheduled for March 3rd-6th, 2022, a policy that show attendees, staff and exhibitors must follow. See policy at www.thebigrvshow.ca

We know the past 2 years have been unbelievably difficult on everyone and we are looking at this year’s Toronto Spring Camping and RV Show as a chance to give hope that we are nearing the end while serving as a gigantic step moving forward to getting back to some sense of normality for all of us who enjoy camping and the outdoors. After all, what better way to get ready for camping season than to come shop for the latest and greatest RV models!

Given “The Year of the RV” in 2021 and the much higher retail numbers that the RV industry has experienced, inventory issues have led to a few of our usual Big RV Show exhibitors to skip 2022. However, please be assured that the largest Ontario RV retailers are all back and will be showing off their usual displays showcasing RVs of every model and for any budget.

In absence of the Great Canadian RV Parts and Accessories Superstore, we are excited to announce our brand new “Campers Marketplace” in Hall 2 where our Booth Exhibitors will all be located this year. We know that they are all really looking forward to seeing everyone again!

Finally, in order to avoid smaller enclosed areas, we have decided to move our seminars and speakers (normally off the main aisle in Hall 1) to the Go RVing Canada Activity Zone Big Stage in Hall 2 where we will also have our draws, giveaways and fun activities for all ages all in one place!

Shop at the show for a great deal or just learn more about the RV Lifestyle. Come find your next adventure at The Big RV Show March 3rd-6th, 2022 at The International Centre.

It’s been a long time, and we are excited to see all of you again.

Please don’t hesitate to contact our Show Office if you have any questions. Contact: [email protected]

Shane Devenish
Canadian RV Association
+1 905-315-3156
email us here
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Fleetwood RV Debuts Bounder 35GL Class A Gas for 2022

By: RVBusiness|Published on: Jan 17, 2022|Categories: Today’s Industry News|

DECATUR, Ind. – Fleetwood RV will introduce the 2022 Bounder 35GL at the Florida RV SuperShow, according to a press release from REV Recreation Group.

The Bounder 35GL is a Class A Gas luxury motorhome with an innovative, industry-leading floorplan that delivers ultimate comfort and convenience for travel-loving couples and families. Fleetwood RV is a brand within REV Recreation Group, Inc., which is a subsidiary of REV Group Inc.

With its mid-coach entry, the 35GL is spacious, inviting and features four distinct areas, making it feel like a traditional home, the release states.

The main room at the front of the coach is perfect for lounging, dining, and entertaining. It has a custom-made, ultra-comfortable couch with an LED TV across from it that’s mounted at an appropriate height to deliver the best viewing experience possible. Opposite the sofa is the exclusive multi-purpose Adap-table Dinette that serves as a convenient workstation or breakfast bar for two. By swinging the table out vertically, it easily hosts a dinner party for four.

Flowing from the living area is an open-concept kitchen that boasts a French-door, stainless-steel Whirlpool refrigerator, three-burner cooktop, and lots of sought-after counter space. Across from the cooktop, the stainless-steel apron sink is set on an angle and surrounded by quartz countertops and a glass tile backsplash. A bank of hand-made, solid-wood cabinetry above and below the large sink provides significant storage while under-cabinet lighting delivers a soft ambient glow.

Another desirable amenity that the 35GL delivers is a split lavatory. With easy living in mind, the bathroom area has privacy doors that close it off from the kitchen and bedroom. In addition, each space has its own sink and medicine cabinet, so travelers have extra space and toiletry storage.

The large master bedroom has an airy feel thanks to the picture window and two side windows that bathe the room in natural light. For nighttime relaxation, an LED TV is conveniently positioned across from the King Encore series articulating bed. In addition, the room has plenty of storage with two wardrobes, a six-drawer dresser and overhead CPAP console.

The exterior of the coach delivers additional amenities that make RV life comfortable and enjoyable. Thanks to its mid-ship design, the 35GL has a 14’ awning that covers the entry and creates an expansive outdoor living room. Owners can easily entertain family and friends while enjoying the beauty of nature.

The exterior also features a series of pass-through luggage bay doors for convenient access and a significant amount of storage that’s not typically found on a Class A model.

The 35GL includes a choice of four exterior paint designs (Blue Merle, Cinnaberry, Freedom and Frosted Merlot), three stylish décor packages (Intrigue, Sycamore and Quicksilver) and four hardwood options (English Chestnut, Heritage, Winter Fog and Greystone).

“We’re extremely proud of this new design because it brings together form, function, and creativity in a luxury package that owners are sure to appreciate,” said Doug Miller, product manager for REV Recreation Group’s Class A products. “With Fleetwood RV, we focus on every detail, no matter how small, to deliver a truly amazing experience for our owners.”

The Bounder is one of Fleetwood’s most popular models and has the distinction of being one of the best-selling motorhomes ever. The new Bounder 35GL has a starting MSRP of $238,971.

For more information on the new Gas Bounder 35GL and other models, visit Fleetwood RV.

Louise and Mort Amell, Ontario celebrated their 60th Anniversary with family on February 3rd, 2021.  They were active in Canada FCRV and Ontario Provincial Association for many years. Lots of fond memories.

Herbert ‘Herb’ Petersen, 88, Port Jefferson, New York passed away 1-7-22. Herb and his wife, Marie served on the Executive Board, first as National Teen Directors from 1985 -1992. They were appointed National Scholarship Directors from 2001-2014. They also Co-chaired the 1996 Campvention in Hamburg, NY. Herb was a volunteer fireman and a collector of firefighting memorabilia.

Petersens  joined  NCHA / FCRV in 1970. Later they became Suffolk County District Directors and later NY State Scholarship Directors. They contributed greatly to the programs the served. Herb and Marie received an FCRV National Outstanding Service Plaque when they retired in 1994

John Pillette, 1-22-22, Detroit, Michigan. Lifetime member with wife of 35 years, Beth..

Robert Wayne Reily, 64, 1-4-22, Mount Bridges, Ontario. Husband of Karen Brown Reily, Daughter of Ron & Mary Brown, long time FCRV members. Reilys  joined in 2018

Michael Robert Stansbury, 43, 1-22-22, Kenton, Ohio. Son of Bettie Peiffer and the late Dennis Stansbury.  Michael was the youngest of 3 brothers, Kevin and Adam. All who were active in Ohio Teen Assn growing up. Michael is survived by his wife Cori and 3 children. He was preceded by a daughter. He did not let diabetes stop him from enjoying life.

George (Bud) White has two daughters, four grandsons and two great grandchildren.  He was a part-time police man in Big Bend when they had the snowmobile races and carnivals.  He worked 37 years at Amron Corp. as a set up man until they closed and then he worked at Zero Zone for four years until he retired.  In FCRVers with his wife Ruth, they were WI Conservation Directors for 15 years and in 1992 they were the Conservation/ Wildlife Chairman at the International Campvention in Brainard, MINN.  He helped with Security at many Campventions we attended.

William ’Bill’ Coply,  84, Fremont, Ohio, longtime active member of Ohio Wheel Estate Chapter with wife of 70 years, Patsy. He was A veteran of the Korean War. Retired from Ford Motor Company, known for wood working and crafts.