May 2022

2022 FCRV RETIREE RALLY EXCEEDS EXPECTATIONS

   Attendance expectations for the 2022 Retiree  Rally were exceeded with 82 RV units and 170 + people on hand at the Mineola, Texas Civic Center, It was a great facility for the 50th annual rally with level parking, full hookups, lots of meeting / activity rooms, the large Live Oak Auditorium, and lots of usable outdoor space for games. Several early arrivals opted to attend a Mystery Play Dinner Show at the Civic Center.

    After a 2 year moratorium caused by Covid, old friends from all over the U.S and Canada were very glad to see each other again. Monday night’s opening ceremonies, hosted by MC, Kip Cushing centered on past, current, and next International Retiree King and Queens. 16 past King and Queen couples were introduced as well as the three 2022 candidates. Crowned in 2019, Matt and Marla Mantia, cut the opening ribbon following the placement of the U.S., Canadian, Texas, and FCRV flags on stage. Ashley Taylor led the singing of the” Star Spangled Banner”, Sharon Sandau  and Beth Standiford led ”Oh Canada”, and Chaplain, Bill Buggeln led a prayer.

 Nancy Murphy, General Manager of the Civic Center welcomed everyone and gave some of the history of the town of Mineola and the Civic Center. Her presentation was laced with humor and good will. Mineola Mayor, Janie Langford  also welcomed everyone. Also introduced were Rally Coordinators, Kip and Jan Cushing and Assistant Coordinators, Ron and Reba Ray.

 Ron and Jo Hersom introduced the three couples running for 2022 International King and Queen. Each couple spoke to the audience telling of their life experiences as well as their FCRV experience. They are : Ed & Vina Haggerty, Illinois, Steve and Diane Hitchens, Kansas, and Phil and Joanne Rich, South Carolina.

 The evening concluded with a thank you hospitality by the Rally Coordinators. Goldfish Crackers and bottled water matched the rally theme –“Fishing  For 50”.

 Tuesday was a day for signing up for activities and day planning. The commercial vendors were open. The First Timers Meeting explained what goes on at an FCRV Retiree Rally and how to make the most of it. Events of the day included Line Dancing Lessons, Tee Shirt Trimming Craft, Trivet Tiles Craft, Tire Minder Seminar, Sky Med Seminar, Chicken Foot Cards, Fun and Games With Jan, and the ever popular, skill testing Frog Races.

  The evening’s entertainment was a hit (or many hits from the 50’s, 60’sand beyond in all genres) by Ben and Doug from Dallas, Fort Worth , who have an impressive song catalog using background music true to the original. They even sang like the original greats of country, rock, r& b, and other formats. Many memories came back as the audience, sang along, clapped time, and filled the open dance floor.  After playing for over an hour and a half they agreed to stay on after door prizes and an ice cream break. The audience stayed too and enjoyed more music and dancing. The happy evening ended with everyone forming a big circle and joining in “God Bless the U.S.A.”

  Wednesday included the daily activities such as Morning Devotional, Walking with Bill and Rita, Food Bank Collection and Commercial Vendors open. Also happening were State/Provincial Group Pictures,   Line Dance Class, Seminar on Kitchen Gadgets, Card Game 3-13, and South Carolina Hospitality. The Jam Session was rescheduled.

 While Billie Jo and Mat Fisher were setting up to perform for the evening show, Kip Cushing challenged the audience with TV trivia questions. Billie Jo, who grew up near Mineola has been in the music business for a few years, She has written and recorded several  songs including “Favorite Place to Be” which was nominated in 2018 for the  Texas Country Music Award and she was nominated for Female vocalist if the year. She has opened shows or many for several popular country entertainers and has appeared on The Voice and American Idol.  With her vocal and her accompanist partner, Mat ,she shared her versatility, singing several songs solo and others in harmony with Mat. Mat Fisher is also a very talented singer with that deep country voice and nimble fingers on guitar. He accepted a song request and opened the flood gates, but he did his best to fulfill them.  “Fishing In the Dark” was a favorite. Several of the tunes by both had the audience singing along and a few couples danced. A highlight of the show was Billie Jo’s rendition of Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You.”  The evening wrapped up with door prizes and Bingo by Lawrence Phillips.

  Thursday was another busy day as rally goers selected what to do. Among the choices were C.A.M.P. WALK, Sky Med Travel Assistance Seminar, Card Bingo, Fire Suppression Seminar, Beaded Bracelet Craft, Illinois Hospitality, Fun Games With Jan, Washer Toss Doubles, and Kansas Hospitality.

 A catered chicken dinner was served before the annual Memorial Service where members who passed away since the last Retiree Rally. Chaplain Bill Buggeln’s message theme was “Water and the Winds”, stressing that you are not alone in trying times. The FCRV Choir directed by Kip Cushing and accompanied by Craig Weber, sang 3 hymns at appropriate times. The list of those being remembered was read by Linda Hennie. The Service closed with a prayer. Beth Standiford announced that $550 plus several boxes of packaged food was donated to the Kindness Kottage  Food Bank by rally attendees. 57 lap pads , quilts, and crocheted were donated to the Mineola Heights Health center.

 Switching from the serious to the lighter side, The FCRV Variety Show took to the stage. MC, and Show Coordinator, Kip Cushing introduced each performer or act. Some appeared twice to round out the show.  (See separate article). A karaoke session was available after the show.

  Friday was another busy day with the usual scheduled daily activities plus more. Women’s Singles Washer toss started at 8:30 a.m., same time as the Men’s Hard Hat Breakfast. Guest speaker was Owen Tyler, Mineola’s Marketing Director. He explained what made Mineola a ‘Main Street” city with its unique, attractive shopping streets. Mineola also has a 3,000 acre Nature Preserve, Amtrak Depot and Railroad Museum, Historical Museum and The Select Movie Theater which is the oldest movie theater in Texas, still in operation since 1922. It has modern equipment today.

  The popular Pet Parade started at 10 a.m. (Separate Article)  The Ladies Red Hat Lunch was at 11:30 a.m. and the Men’s Singles Washer Toss rounded out the morning.  Skip-BO and Corn Hole Doubles were held in the late afternoon. (Sports and Games will be covered in separate articles).

     Prior to the National FCRV Retiree Meeting, Led by Ron and Reba Ray was the Ice Cream Social, which besides ice cream is the collection of the Ballots For the 2022 International FCRV Retiree King and Queen. The meeting was short and sweet, recognizing First Timers and Veterans. The 2023 FCRV Retiree Rally will be held at the National Peanut Fairgrounds in Dothan Alabama, March 28 – April 3, with early  days March 24 – 27

  Before the evening entertainment began, Shari Weber thanked Ron and Reba Ray for their years of service as FCRV National Retiree Directors and noted that they are retiring from the position. Agreeing to  accept the job, were Dave and Linda Hennie of Ohio who have worked on several Retiree Rallies ,in addition to their other FCRV duties. They received their new badges and a warm welcome of applause from the audience.

  Folks were ready for some ‘Real Country Music’ which they got plenty of from the 5 piece group, Busting Loose with lead singer, Ira Bradford. Ira paid tribute to several of the well  known country singers who are no longer with us by singing their hits. He also did some rock numbers and whenever possible he joined the audience in a line dance, two step, or slow dance, etc. using a portable microphone. First class is the only way to describe the show. Ira led the audience in singing “Happy Birthday” to Gene Beasley who just turned 84 and wished a happy 16th wedding anniversary to the Retiree King and Queen whose term is ending, Matt and Marla Mantia of IL. After the show ended with a standing ovation, a Thank You Hospitality was held by Matt and Marla in appreciation for 3 years of support by the members.

 Saturday was a day for the morning Flea Market in the large room , First Timers (there were several) Recap Meeting, and afternoon Bean Bag Baseball. There were so many who wanted to play that several group teams worked down to a final 2 teams.

  The second catered dinner of the week was served and Nancy Murphy drew receipts from money spent in Mineola. Several gift cards from Cracker Barrel, Bass Pro Shop and  The Civic Center were drawn. The top prize, a $100 gift card was won by  Betty Smith.

  While people waited for the announcement of the FCRV International King and Queen election results, Marla Mantia gave a summary of their activities during their first year first year, which included considerable travel to several FCRV Retiree events to which they were invited. Covid  put a crimp in activities for the last 2 years.

 Before the election results were announced by Ronald and Jo Hersom who were in charge of the Retiree King and Queen Program for the last few years, Welcomed Leon and Lynelle Ishmael who will be taking over that position. The envelopes were opened and the results are: Second Runners Up –-Phil and Joanne Rich, SC, First Runners Up – Ed and Vina Hggerty, IL, and 2022  International Retiree King And Queen- Steve And Diane Hitchens, KS.  After receiving the sash, crown, and trophy, The Hitchens promised to be active in the promoting the Retiree Program and visit as many FCRV State/Provincial Retiree Activities as possible. They also thanked Kansas for their support as Retiree State King and Queen. 

  Dale Cummings known as “The C”, Sang “Can’t Help Falling In Love With You” for the King and Queen’s first dance. The other candidates, plus all the Past Retiree Kings and Queens  soon joined them on the floor. After that, Dale C became a human jukebox, reading the audience and providing danceable music both slow and upbeat for the next couple hours of enthusiastic dancing. Dancers did take a break to visit the hospitality tables, organized by the YARS Chapter.

  SUNDAY was the final day of activities , beginning with a Non-Denominational Church Service, led by Chaplain Buggeln and the FCRV Choir. At noon a thank you luncheon was held for the committee  staff. The Parking committee headed by Joe and Sandy Wingert was the largest one. 

  Special recognition was given to Ron and Reba Ray, 2022 Co-Chairpersons who are “retiring” from their 6 year service of FCRV National Retiree Director.  They will be serving as Chair Persons for the 2023 Retiree Rally set for the National Peanut Festival Grounds in Dothan Alabama, March 28 – April 3 2023. Although Kip and Jan Cushing  were doing most of the thanking, they were given a round of applause for their work as this Year’s Rally Chairpersons. At 7 p.m. the game awards were presented by Shari Weber followed by the always exuberant Parade of States & Provinces took to the stage .  (Largest states groups marching were Kansas  and Colorado.) The flags were retired and Kip Cushing thanked everyone for coming and left them with this message, “Take time to say goodbye to all your old friends, new friends and now family. We hope you had a wonder full time and for the 2023 hopefully we will see you in Dothan, Alabama for the 2023 International Retiree Rally.”

Topeka Kansas Couple Crowned FCRV International Retiree King And Queen

     Steve and Diane Hitchens went camping on their honeymoon and since, have had several campers/RVs in the 46 years they have been married.  In the last 9 years they have been enjoying camping with The Kansas Chapters and State Association of Kansas FCRV (Family Camping & RVers ). Steve has served as Vice President and Diane  as Secretary. They have also volunteered to serve on many National FCRV National Campvention and Retiree Committees. They still enjoy travelling camping, meeting new friends and introducing them to FCRV. They belong to Kansas Campfires, Kansas Sunchasers, and YARS Chapters of FCRV.

     Steve and Diane Hitchens live in Topeka and have 2 children and 4 grandchildren who also live nearby so the y all get to ‘Play A Lot’.

     Prior to retirement, Diane held several positions in Administration with Topeka Public Schools. Steve monitored water quality and compliance for the City of Topeka Public Works Department. 

     Diane likes to do genealogy and helps others get started with it. She also likes garage sales  where she finds things to use while fixing up their  ‘New Old House’.  Steve likes to tinker around the house and RV and can fix just about anything. He is also a ham radio operator and likes contacting other hams and preparing for emergency communications.

     The Hitchens were one of 3 candidates for the role of  2022 FCRV International Retiree King and Queen based on dedication and service  to the goals of FCRV and its Retiree Program. Ironically they received the honor at FCRV’s 50th annual winter Retiree Rally in Mineola Texas on March 3, their 46th Anniversary

      FCRV is the oldest non-profit family camping and RV club in North America with members and chapters across the U. S. and Canada. Originally founded as National Campers &Hikers Assn. in 1949. The name was changed in 1983 to reflect its current direction. See www.fcrv.org.

Another Retiree Rally is in the books. Leon and I would like to thank Jo and Ronald Hersom for their dedication as king and queen coordinators. We feel we have big shoes to step into. Being elected king and queen is a great honor both by your state and ultimately as International Retiree King and Queen. We have had a decline in participation the past few years  due to aging and because most people think you have to travel . Whereas it is nice to visit other states campouts, the only requirement of the winner is to return the following year to crown the new King and Queen. If you would like to run, first you must be elected from your state or province. Then contact us for an application. Either call Leon @ 515-520-7858 or LaNelle @ 803-341-2470 or email [email protected]. Hope to see you in Dothan.

Pet Parade

11 Dogs and proud owners entered the 220 Retiree Rally Pet Parade. All received participation certificates.  First Timers, Michael and Mary Hatter enjoyed judging the entries.

Winners were:

• Best Owner / Pet Look-alike – Lab ,Mary Ella– Jack & Pat Thomas, MD
  
• Best Trick- Terrier Abbey  – Pat Crowe, MD
  
• Best Behaved –Poodle  Sasha  – Cynthia Lindley
  
• Most Adorable – Bischon / Schitsu Max – Sandy Tolliver, TX 
• Best in Show – Retriever, Suzy –Sally Hayland, CO
  

Acting Parade Chairman, Donna Powell filled in for Rtia Latellier who had the category certificates ready.

Variety Show

FCRV Variety shows are always fun and entertaining and usually involve the unexpected. Some of the participants appeared twice in order to round out the show. Leading off was Beth Standiford from Missouri singing Anne Murray’s “Could I Have This Dance”. Next was Donna Powell, IN singing “Wings Of A Dove”, accompanied by Horst Schaller, WI  (accordion) and wife, Joane (saxophone). Horst & Joane then teamed up for Edelweiss with the audience joining in. JoAnn Wollinger. WI told the humorous story of “The Preacher’s Wife”stuck in traffic. . Ashley Taylor SC, entertained with two Christian Songs – “Take My Hand” and later “Nothing To Prove”. Two NC couples, Lanelle & Leon Ishmael and Phil and Joanne Rich did a skit in poodle skirts and t-shirt to “My Boyfriend’s Back”. Craig Weber FL, played and sang an original song he wrote with his daughters in mind, “Where The Water Goes”. Horst and Joanne came back and had people who knew how to polka dancing in the aisle to “Liechtensteiner” and “Beer Barrell” Polkas.  Beth Standiford, the next to last performer, stilled the waters with a beautiful version of “Amazing Grace” and MC, Kip Cushing  sailed smoothly to the end singing “Together Again” and “There’s A Place For Us”.

Campers Actively Moving (C.A.M.P.) Activities

16 Hikers walked  a combined total of 61 miles over a measured course of 61 miles 4 of the 5 days scheduled. Participants representing 4 states were awarded C.A.M.P. Certificates in recognition of their efforts. 

Classes in line dancing were taught by Marla Mantia and husband, Matt helped out with Couples sessions. 16 dancers representing 6 states danced a total of 1,390 minutes or 23.17 hours, Dancers were awarded C.A.M.P. Certificates ( and were able to show off their newly learned skills at the evening programs.). 

By Bill and Rita Newell, Chairmen

FROG RACES
Ist Dave Jurek
2nd Jackie Jurek
3d Don Tolliver

LADDER GOLF
1st Joe Wingert
2nd Dot Clark

CORN HOLE 
1st Dave Jurek
2nd Dot Clark

CHICKEN FOOT 
1st Rita Newell

5 CROWNS 
Lowest Score- Diane Buggeln  and Dave
Highest Score- Dennis 

TABLE WINNERS 
Diane/Dave
Jerry Rozelle
Ronnie Penton
Art … Willie WalkerCheryl

WASHER TOSS DOUBLES 
1st Dave Jurek
Dot Clark
Womens  – Willie Walker/Dot Clark

BEAN BAG BASEBALL 
Team COCO –Captain Dora Lewis – Bill, Willie, Joan, Joe, Sandi,  John, Cheryl, Dorothy

TEAM HODGE PODGE 
Captain George Hall  – Aletha, Jim, Michael,Ed, Vina, LeWayne Cynthia, Gene

Games Chairmen, Craig and Sherry Weber

2022 Retiree Golf Teams

[Click Here For Full Event Calendar]

Colorado – Hi Country camper out for dinner at the Old Spaghetti Factory.

Teresa , Handsome Jack, and I are having fun at Planning Meeting for the FCRV 2022 Campvention! We’re ready to have fun, are you? ~ Rick Walorski

Heatstroke Prevention and National Water Safety Month – May 2022

Advice form a Wildlife Technician by Amy Wittmeyer

Growing up camping, I became very familiar with two big components of summer recreation: heat and water. I was often called a little fish for how much I loved to swim, usually in whatever lake, waterfall, or river our campground was near. I grew up with knowledge and respect for the water, taught to me by my mother and aunt, who were both lifeguards in their college years. I also traveled all around the eastern US and into the Midwest for campventions and other big weeklong trips. Doing so introduced me to blistering heat, often accompanied by high humidity. Now I’m a wildlife technician and have spent the last two summers working in the mountains of California. I’ve worked hard in temperatures over 95°F, often exposed to full sun thanks to wildfires destroying forest canopy cover. As part of my outdoor career, I’ve also received Wilderness First Aid certification. I highly recommend this 8-hr course for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors; it introduces you to common medical emergencies suffered by outdoor recreators and trains you to recognize symptoms and provide care for a wide range of illnesses and injuries. Here are some things about water safety and heat illnesses that I’ve learned through both professional education and personal experience growing up and working outdoors.

Water Safety 

As temperatures begin to climb and summer kicks off, many people will seek water sources like pools, lakes, and even the ocean to cool down and have some fun. Swimming is one of the most popular summer activities in the US and can be very beneficial to mental and physical health. But despite its relatively harmless appearance when burbling along a stream, water can be very powerful and dangerous. According to the Red Cross, over 50% of Americans either can’t swim or don’t know basic water competency skills. Drowning is a leading cause of death for children and a risk to everyone who partakes in water sports, whether they’re swimming in their backyard, boating in a lake, riding rides at a water park, or surfing in the ocean. Even non-fatal drowning can cause brain damage and long-term health effects. 

General Water Safety

Learning how to swim is one of the most important risk prevention strategies someone can employ to ensure safe water enjoyment of any kind. Water competency is an extra layer of knowledge and skills someone can have to increase safety and be able to prevent or respond to water emergencies. According to the Red Cross, water competency has 3 main components: water smarts, swimming skills, and helping others.

Water Smarts: Take sensible precautions when in and around water

• Know your limitations, including physical fitness, medical conditions.
• Never swim alone; swim with lifeguards and/or water-competent friends present.
• Wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket appropriate for your weight and size and the water activity. Always wear a life jacket while boating, regardless of swimming skill.
• Understand the dangers of hyperventilation and hypoxic blackout.
• Understand and adjust for the unique risks of the water environment you are in, such as:
  • River currents.
  • Ocean rip currents.
  • Water temperature.
  • Shallow or unclear water.

Swimming Skills: Learn how to perform these 5 skills in every type of water environment

1. Enter water that’s over your head, then return to the surface.
2. Float or tread water for at least 1 minute.
3. Turn over and turn around in the water.
4. Swim at least 25 yards.
5. Exit the water.

Helping Others: These actions can help you avoid and/or respond to water emergencies 

• Paying close attention to children or weak swimmers you are supervising in or near water.
• Knowing the signs that someone is drowning 
  • **Calling for help and splashing are signs of distress but not true drowning; true drowning is often relatively quiet
  • True drowning signs include gasping, head low in the water and tilted back, eyes closed, no forward swimming progress, and not using legs. 
• Knowing ways to safely assist a drowning person, such as “reach or throw, don’t go”.
• Knowing CPR and first aid.

Lake and Ocean Safety

Swimming in a lake, river, or ocean adds many risk factors. Swimming in any kind of open water is much more difficult, tiring, and unpredictable than swimming in a pool. Many competent swimmers can be caught by surprise and quickly get into trouble in natural water setting. In rivers, currents can pull people away from their group. Distances in lakes and oceans are easily misjudged. In natural environments, underwater obstructions like branches, rocks, and plants can entangle a swimmer or cause cuts, bruises, and abrasions. When swimming in natural environments, keep these tips in mind:

• Pay attention to weather forecasts, including precipitation and wind. High winds can affect boats and swimmers with high waves and strong currents. 
• Seasonal changes can affect water levels. In spring and early summer, rivers are subject to sudden changes in water level due to rainstorms or snowmelt upriver. Water is often still very cold and can cause hypothermia. 
• Swim at beaches patrolled by lifeguards if possible. 
• Always have a swim buddy.
• In the ocean, be aware of tidal changes, rip currents, beach slope, wave break line, and “sneaker” waves, or unexpected sets of larger-than-normal waves. 
• Avoid swimming around piers, docks, in rough water, at night, or during thunderstorms. 

Resources:

Water Safety | American Red Cross

Drowning Facts | Drowning Prevention | CDC

Water Safety – Oceans, Coasts & Seashores (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)

Water Safety for Lakes, Rivers, and Beaches | Washington State Department of Health

Hi there everyone, we are introducing a new article in Camping Today. We would like to welcome you to Dear RV. This is a place where you can ask the questions that you are hesitant to ask members of your Chapter, State, or your Neighbor. Your questions will be answered from our point of view, and it will hopefully give you a chuckle as well as some useful information to help you in your RVing experience. You may not agree completely with all our answers, but our goal is to give honest information to you as to how we do our RVing. We would prefer to not know who is submitting the question. So, send us your questions and we will send you an answer (possibly that you were not expecting) but an answer, just the same and possibly with a small dose of humor for good measure.

Us here at Dear RV!

Dear RV

My question is on RV refrigerators. My fridge just does not get and stay cold enough in the hot weather. What can I do to help improve how it works?

Trying to keep my Cool!

Well Cool, fear not!

There are several things that one can do to help with the cooling. One thing that seems to help is the simple installation of a small battery-operated fan in the fringe to help move the air around inside. Another thing that is often overlooked is to not overload the fridge. Leave space for the air to move around the items and you will find things cool better. There is also a small thermo coupler that is attached to the fins in the back of the fridge and by moving it up or down you will change the temp that the fridge is working at. I also have learned that there is a bar that will install over the fins in the upper back of your fridge that hooks into the light, I think, for power that greatly increase the air flow, and some say they are great for improving the cooling of the fridge. Also, you should talk to your dealer and have a fan installed to the back of the unit to help move the air in the outer part of the fridge compartment. I had one installed on a 5th wheel fridge that I had several years ago, and this made a great difference in cooling.  

Thanks for writing to Dear RV

Dear RV,

Hi, new to camping here. Is there any rule or guideline about camping at a disabled site at a state park.  Have made reservation and the only available site was a disabled one. Can I use that if I’m not disabled?

Curious

Dear Curious,

Many areas have rules that apply to handicap auto parking places that also apply to the camping spot. In my state, you are required to have a handicap placard or license plate to be allowed to park in the space. When you think about it this is only a courteous thing to do as many parks only have 1 to 3 handicap spaces in the entire park. Please let the marked places for them, to them.

Thanks for writing to Dear RV.  

Dear RV,

Hope you don’t think this is a frivolous question, but I am new to RV life and just don’t know.   My spouse bought a regular hose to hook up for fresh water.   We saw white hoses on other RV’s.  Will any garden hose work or do we need to have a white one?   Thanks for the clarification.

Hosed

Dear Hosed,

This is not a silly question.  It’s one about which I would caution you.  A regular garden hose left in the sun will leach vinyl chemicals into the water causing the water to taste very bad.  For years, doctors have cautioned us to not drink from a regular garden hose.  The color of the hose is not important, but what IS important is that it is marked “potable” or “safe for consumption/drinking”.  

I can’t recommend a specific brand but it would be good to look for one that collapses to save on storage space.  

And PLEASE do NOT use the same hose to rinse your black tank.  Keep it separate – different color, mark it, tag it.  Anything to help you know the difference on sight. 

Thanks for writing to Dear RV

RV recalls

• Forest River Inc. is recalling 1,561 2022 Palomino Puma and Puma XLE fifth wheel and travel trailer recreational vehicles. The exterior micro kitchen griddle may be stowed while still connected to propane.
• Forest River, Inc. is recalling 74 2022 Surveyor travel trailers. The fresh air intake tube length may be too short, allowing it to detach and causing the burn chamber to crack.
• Ford Motor Company is recalling 391,866 2021-2022 F-150, 2022 Maverick, Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 vehicles. Due to a software error, a towed trailer equipped with an electric or electric-over hydraulic brake system may not brake.
• Keystone RV Company is recalling 1,155 2022 Bullet, Outback, and Passport travel trailers. The coupler hitch may have been welded improperly, which can cause the trailer to separate from the tow vehicle.

NJ Labs Cautions Americans to Know The Bug That Bit You This Tick Season

March 21, 2022 10:23 ET | Source: NJ Labs

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J., March 21, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Once considered a regional issue, tick season, which officially takes place between April and October, is now a national concern due to the migration of these insects and the frequency in which people travel and opt for outdoor adventures. Although Lyme disease is the most known tick-borne disease, it is not the only tick-borne pathogen out there, which is why NJ Labs recommends testing for other tick-borne pathogens including: Rickettsiosis, a spotted fever, or Ehrlichiosis, a potential breathing and blood disorder.

“When it comes to finding ticks, people worry most about Lyme disease and as a result, the market focus is on promoting Lyme disease testing. However, other tick species carry different types of tick-borne pathogens that can be just as dangerous to your health,” said Sandra Lee, CEO of NJ Labs whose analytical testing lab offers tick collection testing kits under the name Tick SURE. “Our tick collection testing kit is designed to avoid expensive, in-person lab visits by giving broad-range, quick results at a reduced cost.”

Deer ticks are the only ticks that carry Lyme disease, however, there are many other tick species that can also cause virus-like symptoms including headaches, fever, fatigue, chills and muscle aches. If a tick has bitten you or your pet, Lee says you should make sure that the tick is tested for the most common tick-borne pathogens, in addition to Lyme disease, using a DNA-based method to test with a higher specificity.

“It’s important to know the bug that bit you,” says Lee. “This old adage is especially true when it comes to tick bites, because when you know the specific species of the bug that bit you, you can test for every tick-borne pathogen known to that species, not just Lyme disease. This way you are covering every possible compromised health issue.”

Tick SURE is a tick test and sample collection kit that can be purchased in advance as a precaution to finding a tick on you or your pet’s skin. It is a great addition to any first aid kit. Tick SURE includes tweezers, easy directions on how to remove a tick, safe packaging for the tick in a pre-paid, first-class envelope that is delivered to NJ Labs for full identification and testing. Once at the lab, the tick’s DNA is extracted to first identify the species, then tested for the different pathogens it may carry.

The known species of ticks in the United States that bite and transmit diseases in humans include:

• Black-legged tick (deer tick), which transmits Lyme disease, Anaplasmosis, Babesiosis and Powassan disease;
• American dog tick (wood tick), which transmits Tularemia and Rocky Mountain spotted fever;
• Lone star tick (turkey tick), which transmits bacteria that cause Ehrlichiosis, Tularemia and STARI;
• Gulf Coast tick, which transmits Rickettsioses;
• Brown dog tick (kennel tick), which transmits Rocky Mountain spotted fever;
• Western black-legged tick, which transmits Lyme disease and Anaplasmosis; and the
• Rocky Mountain wood tick, which transmits Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Colorado tick fever and Tularemia.

If you find that a tick has bitten you or your pet, Lee recommends sending the tick, using the Tick SURE kit, to NJ Labs in addition to making an appointment with a doctor or veterinarian since symptoms do not always show up right away.

“A positive test just means that we detected the pathogen in the tick, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you have the disease,” says Lee. “Regardless of the tick test result, you should always consult your doctor. Walking into a doctor’s office armed with information about your tick will make your appointment that much more productive.”

Lab fees for walk-in testing can vary across the country, but can cost up to $200. In contrast, purchasing a Tick SURE kit in advance costs as little as $80. Plus having the test kit available during vacations or weekends, when doctor’s appointments are not readily available, can provide peace of mind, allowing those affected to take swift action. NJ Labs is an FDA, DEA registered and inspected, ISO (17025:2017) approved, CGMP certified laboratory that has provided tick-testing services for more than 15 years. To learn more about tick identification and testing, or to purchase a kit, go to: https://testticks.com. Tick SURE kits are available at Walmart. To learn more about NJ Labs visit: https://njlabs.com.

GEN-Y Intros Redesigned ‘Executive’ Fifth-Wheel Hitches

By: RVBusiness|Published on: Apr 12, 2022|Categories: Today’s Industry News|

NAPPANEE, Ind – GEN-Y Hitch announced in a press release its RV line of hitches, the Executive, has been redesigned to create a more enjoyable towing experience.

Here’s what’s included in the new redesign:

• It’s Up To 17% Lighter – The company wanted to make the unit as light as possible without sacrificing the strength or heavy-duty feel that this product embodies. The team worked hard on trying to reduce the weight to make installation easier for customers.
• Newly Designed Auto-Latch – Officials changed the routing of the Auto-Latch cable to provide much better leverage to pull (or release) the latch when unhooking from a trailer from a truck. Overall, it reduced the friction of the cable which lead to the reduced amount of pull required.
• New Look – The new design is more appealing to the eye with a sleeker, more modern design all around.

“All of these new benefits are in addition to the TORSION-FLEX Technology that is built into the hitch, which creates up to a 90% smoother ride than a hard connection hitch. We’re excited to continually innovate and produce new products for RVers across the nation. Our RV line of hitches has expanded over the past few years and we can’t wait to continue our growth in this market,” the release stated.

CLYDE NAFSINGER, PAST DELAWARE STE DIRECTOR

     Clyde Nafsinger, 89, 4-15-22, Wilmington, Delaware. He and wife, Carolyn were former Delaware State Directors and very active in NCHA/FCRV’s Northeast Region for many years. Clyde was a nurse at Dewey Point Veterans Hospital for 30 years. He was a partner in a dairy farm and a farm store. He also was Fire Chief for Hack’s Point Volunteer Fire Department.            Clyde was a jovial and outgoing man, easily recognized by his white beard and his state mascot – a wooden life size blue hen on wheels which he pulled around behind him at rallies and campouts. He would also ride an antique bicycle with the tall wheel in parades. He was definitely a memorable character. He and Carolyn were Delaware’s first Lifetime Members. Caddie Joseph said ,“Clyde was a great State Director and did  much to move FCRV/NCHA ahead.” He will be missed by his many  friends” Survived by wife, Carolyn, 5 children an several grand and great grandchildren.

Ed Kibler, NCHA/ FCRV ‘s First Commercial Director

Ed Kibler who did much in the early days of NCHA to make the organization known to  law makers, campers and the RV industry passed away 4-3-22. Ed was NCHA/FCRV’s first Commercial Director and later became National Legislative Director. He used his connections at The Recreational Vehicle Association in Fairfax, Virginia  where he worked, to keep up with proposed legislation affecting camping and RVing. He and his late wife, Jean were very active in Virginia FCRV, serving as State Directors for several years. Jean later served as National Recording Secretary. Ed was a Vietnam Veteran and was Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Captain (nautical), After retirement Ed and Jean moved to Englewood, Florida and after Jean’s  passing he lived with his daughter Carol’s family in Virginia.

JOHN PARK, PAST NEW JERSEY STATE DIRECTOR

John Park , 77,1-19-22,Cornelius, North Carolina, formerly Hamilton, NJ. He and wife, Susan were active several years in NCHA/FCRV, holding several positions and served as New Jersey State Director in the 1980s. He never let the organization forget its founder, Hank Nathan and attended the placing of a marker at the Beaverkill Public Campground at Roscoe NY, where Hank Nathan first started NCHA in 1949. The Parks kept in touch with the Nathan family for many years until Hank’s passing. John was a graduate of Rutgers University and worked for the State of New Jersey.The Parks moved to NC in 2017. John is survived by wife, Susan and son Chris and his wife,Tara.

ROBERTA MAY FAREWELL

Roberta May, 82, 3-24-22, Lake Whitney, Texas, Formerly Lyons, Kansas.FCRV.  Active in Kansas FCRV. Came back to Kansas every year to visit camping friends with husband, Floyd.

John  ‘Jack’Trimble Farwell

John ‘Jack’ Trimble, 88, 4-8-22, Manheim, Pennsylvania. He and wife of 67 years, Grace were very active in PA NCHA/FCRV for many years. They worked on each of the PA Campventions and attended many others. Jack was an Army Veteran and served in Korea. During camping season the Trimbles camped every weekend for 52 years.

Lawrence Phillips, Texas State Director

Lawrence Phillips, current FCRV Texas State Director, Terrell, TX died Sunday, May 1st, 2022 from complications of a kidney infection that caused him to be hospitalized shortly after the 2022 FCRV Retiree Rally in Mineola, Texas. 

Barb Turner, a long time friend, said this, “Lawrence and his late wife, Pam were active campers and travelers for many years and Lawrence continued after her passing. He had become a fixture at the Retiree Rallies, making sure we had sound for all the activities and just being helpful wherever he could.  He was the entertainment and sound chairman for the 2022 Rally. When we were Rally Coordinators for 2017, he brought his popcorn popper and his bingo equipment. He has been the Texas State Director for a long time and was Charla Yost’s ‘right hand man’ when she was State Director. He was also a YARS member for many years and had just paid his dues, He made the arrangements for the campground last month for our spring rally even though he couldn’t attend. He travelled with us on many of our Travalongs. We’re so going to miss him.”  No services will be held as he has donated his body to a medical center.

Allison Lockett Farwell

Allison Lockett, 52, 4-27-22, New York City, daughter of George and Neva Locket, long time FCRV members in Virginia. Allison enjoyed travelling and camped with the family when possible. A kidney condition caused her to go on dialysis 5 years ago forcing her to work from  and curtail her travels. The Locketts lost their son, Adam to the same condition.

Luella Sprague, Past Missouri State Director

Luella Sprague, 82, 4-24022, Kansas City Missouri. An NCHA/FCRV member for over 55 years, she and husband Donald served in several positions with the MO State Association including, Teen Directors and long time State Directors. Member of Pitch ‘n Pull Chapter, Led Scout Explorer Troop 845. Known for her sewing skills. Preceded in passing by husband, Donald, son Don, and daughter, Donella (Wilkes) who became FCRV’s National C.A.M.P. (Hiking, Walking) Director.  Luella is survived by 5 daughters, 10 grandchildren, and I great grandchild.

CLEMENT WILLIAMS FAREWELL

Clement Williams, 92, 4-15-22, Douglasville, Georgia. He and wife Rheba Doris were active in FNCHA/FCRV since the1960’s. Attended many Campventions and Retiree Rallies. Members of Spring Lizards Chapter and GA State Assn. Clement was known for helping others.

Lois Kurtz

Lois Kurtz, 96, Greene County, Virginia, 10-23-21 (late report), She and husband Rev.C. C Kurtz worked in the Ministry. They were well known in VA FCRV and she was known as ‘Mama’ Kurtz.

Marland ‘Mac’ McCleary Farewell

Marland ‘Mac’ McCleary, 87, 4-9-22,  Marion, Iowa. Army Veteran, served in Korea. Active in Church, Scouting, and camping. Active in Iowa FCRV and Winter Texans with wife of 64 years, Carolyn.