The Official Magazine For Owners Of Heritage, …Membership Services Chairwoman - Janice Thompson...

Volume XX, Issue 6 • November-December 2015

MYRTLE BEACH RALLY FORMNOMINATING COMMITTEE REPORT

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ACA ACROSS AMERICA - November-December 2015 1

ACA National Membership:Chairwoman - Debbie Darby1021 Pinehurst Pl., Camarillo, CA [email protected]

Membership ServicesChairwoman - Janice ThompsonAmerican Coach Association, 12214 Arron Terrace, Trinity, FL [email protected]

ACA National Web Site:Chairman - Doug Thompson12214 Arron Terrace, Trinity, FL [email protected]

ACA National Finance Committee:Chairman - Bob Downing808 Holley Lake Rd., Aiken, SC 29803803-641-6455 / 803-645-1694 [email protected]

ACA National Ambassador Club:Chairwoman - Debbie Darby1021 Pinehurst Pl., Camarillo, CA [email protected]

ACA National By-Laws & Policy:Chairwoman - Pat Adams19255 Tenaja Road, Murrieta, CA 92562951-741-0673 [email protected]

ACA Scholarship Foundation:Chairman - Tony Ford5531 Kings Row Court, Las Vegas, NV 89148702-540-0319 [email protected]

ACA National Rally Coordinator:Chairman - Jim Graham12245 Susanne Ct., Irvington, AL 36544251-825-9876 / 251-623-4321 [email protected]

ACA National Rally Guidelines:Chairwoman - Pat Adams19255 Tenaja Road, Murrieta, CA 92562951-741-0673 [email protected]

ACA National Historian:Chairwoman - Ann Beadel8801 FM 45 South, Brownwood, TX 76801325-646-5104/325-998-0431 [email protected]

ACA National Legal Advisor:Chairman - Scott Rose300 South Houser Dr., Covina, CA [email protected]

ELECTED OFFICERS:President - Bob Frank888 Grande Haven Dr., Titusville, FL [email protected] President - Tony Ford5531 Kings Row Court, Las Vegas, NV 89148702-540-0319 [email protected] - Jennifer Goergen621 Rollingwood Dr., Shorewood, IL 60404815-791-0644 [email protected] - Brianne Brissette7534 Rock Crest Lane, Highland, CA 92346909-721-0912 [email protected]

CHAPTER PRESIDENTS:Great Lakes - Bob Carani2843 Kensington, Westchester, IL 60154708-987-7102 [email protected] Wanderers - Sam Samsel553 Paradise Island Place, Haines City, FL [email protected] Pack - Judy Gallion10535 Wards Rd., Ste.B, Rustburg, VA 24588434-851-6504 / 434-907-4443 [email protected] Valley - Barbara Weeks2165 Grassy Branch Rd., Sevierville, TN 37876865-621-3015 [email protected]/Northwest - Skip DieterPO Box 592, Clio, CA 96106530-836-1632 / 559-862-5645 [email protected] - Claudia Rutherford1494 Birch Lane, Perkasie, PA 18944215-795-2427 / 267-228-6143 [email protected] California - Bob Clapper 2223 Locust Ave., Rialto, CA 92377909-337-8851 / [email protected] Central - Allen Meek1010 Floyd St., Anahuac, TX 77514281-782-1125 [email protected] - Raymond Shea411 Walnut St. #4708, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043570-772-0640 / 601-508-0532 [email protected] - Fred Sotelo13117 W. Denton St., Litchfield Park, AZ 85340623-826-9661 [email protected]

ACA NATIONAL MAGAZINE:Editor - Doug Thompson12214 Arron Terrace, Trinity, FL [email protected]

Advertising Coordinator - Loren Maurina248-767-5119 [email protected]

Design & Production - Print Group Inc.1440 W. Skyline Ave., Ozark, MO [email protected]

ACA Magazine - ©2015Volume XX, Issue 6November-December

The ACA Across America Magazine (USPS 025-025) is published bi-monthly by the American Coach Association, Publication Depart-ment, ACA, 12214 Arron Terrace, New Port Richey, FL 34655 (727) 709-0218, and is funded in part by annual membership dues and paid advertisements. Membership dues are $45 per year. Mem-bership in the American Coach Association is open to owners of American Coach motor coaches only – Heritage, Eagle, Dream, Tradition, Allegiance, Limited and Revolution.

Periodicals Postage Paid at New Port Richey, FL, and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER:Send address changes to ACA Across America Magazine, Member-ship Services, 12214 Arron Terrace, Trinity, FL 34655.

ACA Across America contains advertisements which may be of interest to members- the appearance of any adver-tisement for products or services in this publication shall not be deemed an endorsement by the Association or indi-vidual members. ACA reserves the right to reject or accept, including editing for reasons of space and clar-ity, letters to the editor, chapter news or articles. Statements of fact and opinion are the responsibility of the author(s) alone and do not imply an opinion on the part of the officers of the ACA, the members, the Editor, or Production Staff. Letters and photographs become property of ACA and will not be returned.

ACA Across America

Publication Title: ACA Across America Extent and Nature of Circulation: NationwideAverage No Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 MonthsNo Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date Total Number of Copies (Net press run) 1352 1360 Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions 1090 1096 Paid Distribution by Other Classes of Mail Through the USPS 22 22 Total Paid Distribution 1120 1118 Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail 226 239 Total Distribution 1346 1357 Copies not Distributed 6 3 Total 1352 1360 Percent Paid 83% 82%

2

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Classic Coach WorksCruising AmericaDesert VistaDiamond Shield

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Silverleaf ElectronicsSummit ProductsThornton Creek RV Resort Veurinks RV Center

5 President’s Message

6 Vice Presidents Message ACA Scholarship Foundation

8-15 Chapter News

16-18 Parts & Service Update - Steve Heim

19 Myrtle Beach Rally Form

19-21 Myrtle Beach Rally Info

22 Ship of Fools Rally Form

23 www.mhrig.com

25 Tips & Tricks

26-27 Gary Brinck

28-29 Tech Tips - Rob Lowe

30 ACA Yahoo Group

31 Cruisin’ America Service - Kevin Mallory

33 Rolling Recipes

34 Nominating Committee Report

35 American Coach - Lenny Razo

36-37 Upcoming Rally Details

37 Rally Schedule

38 Chapter Directory

39 Membership Services

40 Chapter Registration Form

www.myamericancoach.comwww.facebook.com/americancoach

Other links:www.americancoach.comgroups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/American_Coach/infowww.acc-fmca.com

November-December 2015, Volume XX, Issue 6 [ Contents ]

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NOTE: Effective immediately, we have a new mailing address- when corresponding with us, please do not use 3590 Round Bottom Road any more- please use this new one:

American Coach Association PO Box 2428 #24502 Pensacola, FL 32513


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Since my last letter, we spent a month with our son and daughter-in-law, enjoying our new granddaughter and doing some sightseeing around San Francisco. We also took a side trip to Napa where we rode the “Wine Train” and of course visited a number of wineries. Our favorite had to be the “Frank Family Winery”. I tried to get a “family” discount but since I couldn’t prove a relationship, I had to pay the regular price. Their wines however were really good so we did take some back to share with the new parents.

Our travels back east included stops in Salt Lake City with a tour of Temple Square and then a weekend in St. Louis. We rode in 5-person pods to the top of the arch where we enjoyed the great 360 degree views. Hav-ing wonderful fall weather, we took the opportunity to stroll through the beautiful Botanical Gardens, where eight weddings were taking place! It’s a great city and we hope to get back there again as there is much more to do.

We then headed back to Decatur for a few final adjust-ments on our new coach. As always, the service was friendly, thorough and efficient. While there, I had the opportunity to meet with Steve Heim and was shown the plans for the new service center. It will be a fan-tastic improvement with modern reception and wait-ing areas as well as the much anticipated paved park-ing. Pictures and more information about the changes can be found in this issue of the magazine. I also met with Lenny Razo who also has an article in this maga-zine, with updated information for us. ARG certainly remains committed to the American Coach line and to our association. They understand that the quality of their product is the highest priority and they are taking steps to make sure that nothing leaves the plant before being thoroughly tested. As everybody who has pur-chased a new coach understands, there will always be some issues after driving for a while, but they are there to ‘make it right”.

[ President’s Message ]

Bob FrankACA National President

Bob & Mary Ann enjoying the Napa Wine Train.

I would like to remind everyone that Doug Thomp-son, our dauntless webmaster, continues to update and improve our website at www.myamericancoach.com. As you already know, current rally information and appli-cations for national rallies is provided there. Some of you, however, may not realize that there is also a private section for “Members Login”. You need your ACA # for your user name and a password to get into that area. Once there, “My Profile” will allow you to update your information or check the expiration date of your mem-bership.

I would also encourage everyone to make sure that your email address is current as we use that when needed to send important announcements. Finally, in the “Re-ports” section, you can find information about all the current ACA members, review all of the National Board meeting minutes and see the ACA Financial Reports. Our current Bylaws, Policies and Rally Guidelines are also found there. If you have any questions about any of this, please feel free to contact me directly.

Travel safe and I hope you have the chance to enjoy the holiday season with family and friends.


Fellow members, the Holidays are upon us once again. First let me wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving, Chanukah and a very Merry Christmas! For us this time of year is a time of reflection, to be thankful for our family and all our friends. This holiday season is al-ways a big deal at the Ford home. The Christmas lights (yeah not “holiday lights) come out, along with the five Christmas trees and all the trimmings. It takes us no less than a week to get everything up. Then there’s the food of course. Turkey, prime rib and whatever else we decide to dream up. Then a new year will be upon us and everything will get stored for another year.

Since the last time I wrote you, we’ve been kind of stranded so to speak. Our coach has been in the shop tracking down an electrical gremlin that has revealed itself. This has caused our inability to attend some local ACA chapter outings. Hopefully by the time you read this, everything will be 100% again.

Speaking of outings, we on the board are always look-ing for National Rally locations. 2016 is pretty sewn up and were actively looking toward a central location for 2017 and for locations beyond. I know your Chapter Presidents have probably asked you for suggestions, but as a reminder, please feel free to let any one of us know of any recommendation you may have.

Information is valuable. It may be of interest to you to know what your board talks about when we meet. I would encourage you to take a look at the Board Meet-ing notes that are posted on our website. They are lo-cated under the member services tab. Once you sign in, you run reports and can read them. I promise they’re not too long and not a difficult read.

I thank you all again for your calls and emails. I have now dabbled into the world of Facebook as well. Let me know what’s on your mind.Keep our troops and first responders in prayer.

ACA National Vice-President

Tony Ford

ACA Scholarship Foundation

As you are all aware, our legacy program of award-ing ten, one thousand dollar scholarships to ten deserving individual sons and daughters of employ-ees of Allied Recreation Group continued this year. We as an organization could not have done this without the continued support of our members.

As we gather together for the holidays, it’s a good time of reflection and giving thanks for family, friends and the lifestyle we’ve truly been blessed to enjoy. We are also approaching the end of the year. I ask that you consider the opportunity to take advantage of making a tax deductible donation to the ACA Scholarship Foundation. The founda-tion is a 501-c-3 Corporation.

All donations should be mailed to:American Coach Association Scholarship Foundation TreasurerP.O. Box 2428 #24502Pensacola, Florida 32513

My personal thank you for all you’ve done in the past and your continued support.

Tony FordPresident, ACA Scholarship Foundation.

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[ Vice President’s Message ]

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South Central Greetings across “ACA Land”. As I write today South Central Chapter is having a great time in the Hill Country of Texas. We arrived and have experienced a great full moon and eclipse. What a sight and what a wonder to see such an event. I can only guess at the folks in olden times who didn’t have access to our technol-ogy were thinking when some-thing like this happened. I am so appreciative to live in these times where we better understand this marvelous world we inhabit.

The weather here has really cooperated, although it is hot in the daytime it is cool at night. The area is suffer-ing a drought but the landscape is still just as you might imagine the hill country to be. This chapter certainly follows the rule of RV life. We eat, visit with each other and enjoy the area attractions. There are many things to see and we are doing our very best to see everything while

South Central we are here. The decorations in the rally room arranged by our ladies and the breakfast each morning cooked by our men and finding local restaurants for our evening meals have made for memorable days. We held our annual officer elections and are welcom-ing Allen Meek as our new Chapter President and Vicki Meek as our new Secretary. We are confident our chapter will prosper under the capable leadership of these fine elected chapter officers. The news today is troubling and reminds me we need to remember all the men and wom-en who serve in our armed forces all around the world.

They, along with the police officers and first responders in fire departments need our support and prayers every day. I encourage you to wear red on Fridays to show your support. Our chapter has more than our share of members who are struggling with medical issues. Please remember all who need and desire to be remembered in your daily devotions.

8

[ Chapter News ]

Great LakesGreetings from GLC.

WOW----where has the time gone? I can’t believe it’s October already and when you receive this magazine, the holidays will be upon us. Hopefully you all had a very happy and uneventful summer.

This has been a year of change for GLC. In August, we elected a new slate of officers. Your new officers are, Vice President, Sharon Maurina; Treasurer, Bill DeMi-lle: Secretary, Susan Kellett; Membership, Diane DeMi-lle; Newsletter Editor, Kathy Carani, and yours truly as President. We are looking forward to 2016.

GLC added nine new members. A very warm welcome to the following: Bob & Nancy Brigden, Pensacola, FL; John & Laura Cooper, Grosse Lie, MI; Rex & Sharon Dugan, The Villages, FL; Rich & Con-nie Engelhart, Medina, OH; David & Mary Jensen, Kalamazoo, MI; Joey & Terri Lynch, Athens, WI; Ron & Pat Seguin, Sylvania, OH; Stan & Kathleen Taylor, Hudsonville, MI, and Ralph & Katherine Weih, Washington, IL.

September 9th-14th found our group at Sunnybrook RV Resort in South Haven, Michigan. Fourteen coaches attended this rally. Attendees were the DeMilles, Bos’s, The Cooper’s, Bill & LeAnne and our new member John(Mickey) and Laura, Pickett’s, Robinson’s, Go-ergen’s, DeTillion’s, Maurina’s, Nebel’s, DeAngelis’s, Chuck Hill and Lynn Potempa and Carani’s. Also joining the group was former GLC President John &

Maurita O’Mally. It was so good to see everyone but especially nice to see Bev & Rick DeAngelis. Bev was also a former GLC President; Al & Anna Robinson and Margaret and Bob Bos. Randy and Cynthia Detillion of Chillicothe, OH also joined us. They are new members last year and this is their first rally with our group. Hopefully we will see more of them and our other new members in 2016.

At the Sunnybrook Rally we officially installed the new officers and discussed plans for moving the chapter forward in 2016. We will be sending out our newsletter outlining that meeting and plans for 2016. We solicit your ideas and suggestions. By the time you receive this magazine, you should have received the newsletter in your email. We are always looking for information to pass on to our other members. If you have something you would like to share, please forward that information to Kathy at [email protected].

The main form of communication we have for everyone is an email address. By the time you read this, we will have already taken steps to insure we have that line of communication with you. However, if you have not received any communication from us prior to your reading this please contact Diane DeMille at [email protected] so your contact information can be updated.

Lets not forget the Rally being held at Lazy Days during the Florida RV Supershow in January and the ACA National Rally in Myrtle Beach in May. Infor-mation on both is available in this magazine. Come join GLC in Florida and South Carolina!

Lastly, we lost a few members this year---because you didn’t pay your dues! We want you back! Where can you find a place to have so much fun for the mere pittance of $10??? Contact Diane DeMille and have your membership reinstated!

Safe travels, good health and HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

Bob CaraniPresident GLC

Until we meet somewhere down the road, “GOD BLESS AMERICA”! Robin Fagala, PresidentSouth Central Chapter


[ Chapter News ]

Thanksgiving and Christmas are both just around the corner and we don’t believe there is a greater time of year…it finally cools down here in Florida, All our Northern Friends begin their annual migration and the fun begins as we work out way toward Spring with all the great Rally Events scheduled.

As you know, Jackie Maddox is doing a great job with “Cares and Concerns”, Birthday and Anniversary notifi-cations and working toward a strong Newsletter…many “thanks” from our Happy Wanderers…Let’s support her efforts and all of us begin contributing with a brief story about our RVing experiences and what’s planned next….we all love to hear from everyone. Jackie and Rob Maddox are still in Houston as of this writing; but, will soon be heading up North to visit their kids before joining us at the POST-Rally at Lazy Days in January.

Billie and I wound our way up to Northwest Iowa for my 55th Class Reunion in September. We had the op-portunity to spend time at the University of Okoboji on West Okoboji Lake and enjoyed that magnificent true “Blue Water” lake along with all our Classmates. We

Happy Wanderers

Southeast had a great rally at Stone Mountain, Georgia in early October! There were thirty coaches including eight first timers. About half of us braved light show-ers and cool weather to attend the Laser show (photo shows those hardy souls during a brief downpour.) Our proficient and hardworking rally hosts Rich Forcier, Ken Browning and Johnny Spacek did a terrific job and Keith Landers and his award winning barbecue team served an amazing dinner for our last evening there. A huge Southeast “Thank you!” goes out to the folks that made the rally possible.

Prior to Stone Mountain several of us visited the Ocean Lakes Campground in Myrtle Beach to check out the site of our 2016 ACA Spring National Rally. This was my first visit there and I was amazed at the size of the resort. Ocean Lakes is very well equipped to suit our needs; the spaces we will be using are well maintained and spacious. While we were there we checked out our assigned sites which are all large cement pads with 50A and full hook ups. We found the campground staff courteous and easy to work with, Myrtle Beach is going to be to be a great national rally!

Southeast’s chapter rallies are being well attended and registrations are coming in. I find it interesting that in early October, our Stone Mountain and Keys Rally were already at capacity and the 2016 Regional at Lazy Days is at over 90% with a waiting list for the 42 foot or greater size sites! – Due to the situation, we did not include the 2016 Regional registration form in this is-sue- if you wish to come, give us a call and we’ll check availabilities.

I am really looking forward to our rallies! Our “Return to the Keys” is going to be bigger than last year! Al-though we are currently at capacity, there will surely be cancellations. If you are interested in attending email Pauline at [email protected] and she will give you an up to date status.

Southeast December brings us back to Sarasota’s award winning Sun N Fun resort. Attendance at this rally continues to grow each year and we are at over two thirds capacity now. Southeast has rallies scheduled for February at Torrey Oaks, April in Brunswick and of course we will have a pre-rally to the national for three days (May 6, 7, 8) right at Ocean Lakes.Keep up to date with the South-east schedule at www.myamericancoach.com and www.southeastaca.net !

Pauline and I feel very fortunate to be a part of this chapter and we hope to see you soon!

Ray Shea

10

[ Chapter News ]

also visited the Amana Colonies just outside Iowa City on our way back South….excellent campground and obviously, the food was outstanding and we just wish we had room in the RV to bring home all that magnifi-cent Amana Furniture or that it was cold enough down in Florida to make good use of their beautiful Woolen products …if you have not spent time in the Amana Colonies, take a few days and just relax….it’s terrific ! Jackie Maddox heard from several of our Happy Wan-derers….Jeannie and Alan Neireiter are off on a great new adventure. They have sold their home and have taken up “Full Timing” in their RV with a first step of attending the “Workamper Rally” in Heber Springs, AR. They will then be heading South to Arcadia, FL to stay at the Cross Creek RV Resort for the Winter. Alan is hoping to do some “Workamping” there…so, stop in at Cross Creek when you are down that way !

Heard that Barb and Sonny Minor were deep into “Chi-cagoland” for the Nascar races in Mid-September and Jack and Claudia Rutherford are in Charlotte…hope the rains haven’t washed out the week…we saw more photos of their new “pup” Maggie…from the pictures, she is taking it all in stride and loving the RV life while she is growing like a weed !

Rita Adams got a wonderful surprise from her husband Gene….he took their beautiful coach to Gary Swan at Smoky Mountain Coach works and had gorgeous new cabinetry installed to provide her with a terrific Com-puter Desk and Work Center….you will have to see it to fully appreciate it…that’s just like Gene…he has to make the rest of us look bad ! Rita and Gene are always busy and with their Grandson’s wedding, this summer was no exception.

DON’T FORGET…HAPPY WANDERERS POST-RALLY AT LAZY DAYS JANUARY 17-20 AND PLEASE GET SIGNED UP FOR THE SPRING NATIONAL RALLY IN MYRTLE BEACH, SC AT THE OCEAN LAKES CAMPGROUND PLUS OUR PRE-RALLY MAY 6-8.

Safe Travels. Sam Samsel Happy Wanderers President

Hi All from Clio California! Right next to Graeagle California. I know that’s what I said, where? Well it is a beautiful pine tree lined small mountain town in north-ern California- East of Sacramento and west of Reno. Where Skip and Rhonda Dieter hosted a fantastic Nor Cal rally. The Dieters did a great job on the meals not to mention the poker run they put together which lead us through the mountain side to many very cool locations that we would likely have never dreamed of heading to. What a great weekend. We will definitely be back. If you are ever in the area make a point of visiting Clio’s River Edge RV Park. I think the poker run was a great idea to get the members out to see the points of interest. I plan to try that on our next rally.

I hope you all enjoyed the summer months as much as Becky and I enjoyed our time at Lake Arrowhead all summer. Now there is definitely a chill in the air. The frost on the pumpkin is certainly not far away. And before we know it, we will be in full holiday season with Thanksgiving and Christmas not far behind.Becky and I are heading south to San Juan Bautista this morning to attend the So Cal Rally being hosted by Ken & Cheryl Brummett, Ginny Wentzel and Don & Mary Ferderer.

If you haven’t heard yet we are excited to share that we have confirmed the Western Regional rally location will be April fools weekend in Hemet California at Golden Village Palms RV Resort. Check out the facilities www.goldenvillagepalms.com they are great! We are hard at work preparing for a great rally. Hemet is located just west of the Palm Spring area. The weather should be great and there will be plenty of field trip opportunities. More detail will follow as we get closer.Next Month Becky and I are heading out in our rig to Mitchell, South Dakota for a little pheasant hunting. Hopefully the weather will remain nice for traveling. With any luck we will have plenty of pheasant for Thanksgiving dinner.

That’s it for now! Travel safe.Bob ClapperSoCal, President

Southern California


[ Chapter News ]

I am writing this article while attending the MacPack rally in Dandridge, TN. We are at the Anchor Down RV Resort which is located on Lake Douglas. Although the weather has been cool and rainy we are all finding things to do in the area. We have met each morning to enjoy coffee and breakfast items provided by members.

Thanks to Jim and Carol Dee, Jeff and Annette Hat-field, Jeff and Linda Rakes and Don and Brenda Car-penter for hosting the coffee mornings. Some of us attended the Octoberfest at Ober Gatlinburg enjoying

good food and the entertainment. Others have been shopping at the outlets and walking the shops in Gatlin-burg. One of our members Don Carpenter and his wife were headed to the University of Tennessee football game. We found out that Don played for the football team as a free safety. We enjoyed a dinner at Cowboys on Lake Douglas and lunch at Paula Deen’s in Pigeon

Mac Pack

Forge. The weather was beautiful on Sunday so we got to have a pot luck outside by the fireplace. It was a great weekend as usual with my fellow chapter members. I want to thank Jim and Carol Dee for hosting the rally and doing a great job.

The MacPack chapters next rally will be in Myrtle Beach as co-host of the next ACA national rally. If you have not made your reservation this is a great place to visit. We will be letting you know details for any pre or post rallies for Myrtle Beach as they are finalized.

I wanted to pass along that MacPack has a Facebook group page. If you would like to join the group, look for ACAMacpackchapter in the group search window. You will need to send me a request to join the group. I will approve and then you can read and post to the group page.

Safe travels,

Judy GallionPresidentMacPack

12

[ Chapter News ]

My last article started out saying how quiet things have been here in the NE….still kind of quiet, but it’s getting ready to heat up! We did another first, spent a week in Bristol at the races…It’s Bristol, Baby!! One of the best, most fun tracks we have been to. Our son met us there from IN, we had not seen him since Christmas so a real treat for us. Jack and I spent a week in Ocean City, MD with our daughter and family, saw lots of wild ponies on Assetinque Island, ate great seafood and enjoyed the hot weather. Grand kids do exhaust you though!

We are leaving home Monday for our NE Gettysburg rally, which will be in the books by the time you read this; then off to the NASCAR race in NC with the Coventry’s, on to service in Gaffney, Myrtle Beach, Charleston, and FL!!!, heading to the Keys rally, hosted by the SE Chapter. You all know that you can belong to as many chapters as you like, and I like to call these members “cross over members”.

We were thrilled when we got another phone call, NE/SE friends Pauline and Ray Shea, along with Johnny Spacek and Ken Browning stopped by to hang out with us. (more help on the farm!)We packed quite a few things into their visit, lots of cooking with Kenny, all of us eating, and we introduced our SE friends to the world of horse racing! We all 6 piled into our truck and had an afternoon at the track watching our horse kind of run around the track! Had a great time and I think Pauline was the winner with betting one or two races.

We drove out to Hershey for the huge RV show out there, spent the day with Johnny and Kenny checking out coaches, visited with Pauline and Ray hard at work, then headed back home. Next issue, which will be next year!!, I’ll have updates on our Gettysburg rally and get the scoop from our members and their travels.

Don’t forget to register for Myrtle Beach in May 2016, the way time is flying it will be here before you know it! Keep your eyes open during your travels for you never know who you may see, and be safe!

Claudia Rutherford, NE

Northeast


[ Chapter News ]

Hi Folks, Where has the year gone? It’s amazing how quickly time passes anymore. It seems that we just finished our 25th Anniversary Rally in Goshen and now it’s nearing the end of the year. As I sit here looking out at the fall col-ors and enjoying our first real rain of the year it brings a smile on my face to think back on all the fun times we have had this past year.

The rolling rally to Goshen, Indiana, with our nightly stops along the way; waking up to snow in Flagstaff Arizona, we looked like a bunch of children who have seen snow for the first time. The Big Texan Steakhouse in Amarillo, Texas, the evenings huddled around the campfire telling our most intimate secrets. Ah yes, the propane fire pit. What a big hit, members of the SoCal Chapter were ordering these faster than they could be manufactured. When we got to Goshen there must have been at least 4 pallets waiting for a certain person who has way too much fun on Amazon.

What a time we had at Goshen, from hot and humid to cold with wind and rain, we had it all; the food, the en-tertainment, reacquainting with old friends and making new ones. Who can forget the trains going by all night and the engineers who blew their whistles just a bit too long just to make sure we knew they were near. All these memories will be replayed in our minds again and again and always with a smile on our faces.

But, alas it is over and everyone is heading in different directions. We headed to “Camp Spartan” for a chas-sis physical and then on to “Camp Decatur” for some repairs along with the factory tour.

Along the way back to California we made stops at Mount Rushmore, Yellowstone National Park, the Grand Teton Mountains, Washington, Oregon, and finally home. I could go on and on but you just have to get out there and experience all that this country has to offer.

We just finished our fall “High Mountain Getaway” Rally and it was great to get together and see everyone again, to hear about their latest adventures and remi-

NorCal/Northwest nisce about past times we have had together.So what’s in store for next year? Well it’s hard to believe that the calendar is almost full. We have the Western Regional Rally the first weekend of April, in Hemet, California followed by the Fall National Rally at the end of August in Canyonville, Oregon. Now let’s add a couple of chapter rallies and low and behold the year is gone again.

So until next year may you be blessed with friends and family over the holiday season and continue to enjoy all the wonders this great country has to offer.

Sincerely,Skip Deiter

Living next to THE GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK is such a blessing. It is one of the most beautiful places in America to enjoy the fall colors. Fall has always been my favorite time of the year. We get thousands of visitors during October for color and TENNESSEE football games played in Knoxville. Good thing Ronnie and I know the back roads.

After contacting Izzy Hulfield, wife of previous Presi-dent Keith, to see how she is getting along, she reported a September evaluation, showing her lung tumor had shrunk, but her liver tumor had grown. However, a change in her chemotherapy drug is causing fewer side effects and she is more comfortable. She remains in our prayers, as I hope she does yours. She is so special.I am happy to report that past-President Ray Smith is in stable heath now. He and Barbara have spent the summer at home resting. Ray lost 15 lbs as a result of two hospital stays but thankfully is feeling good at this

Missouri Valley

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[ Chapter News ]

Our summer travels over, Stella and I returned to Phoe-nix where temperatures were 10 degrees hotter than normal. Being native Phoenicians, we soldiered on for the next two weeks until the normal highs were again in the mid 90’s and lows were in the 60’s. It was good to be finally home.

During our travels through California we saw a Tradi-tion parked on the Rogue River with a familiar tow vehicle parked next to it. Then in Florence, Oregon we passed a coach that we thought belonged to a certain tall Nor Cal/NW chapter member. We decided then and there to make and place a printout of the membership roster in our front dash compartment so that we could at least call and say hello to our fellow ACA member on the road.

Moving on to chapter news, Al Bolger has notified us that he and Shirley are selling their coach and will no longer be able to serve as our membership chair. Sue Ford has graciously offered to assume membership du-ties. Thank you, Sue for stepping up.

2016 is around the corner and we are looking forward to again have the opportunity to attend two national rallies. As the Spring National rally in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is being planned for May 9th, the Nor Cal/NW chapter is planning for the August 22nd Na-tional rally in Canyonville, Oregon. Also the So Cal, Nor Cal/NW and SW chapters are planning a Western regional rally in Hemet, CA on March 31st.

We wish you all continued safe travels. Hasta luego, Fred Sotelo SW chapter President

Southwesttime. We hope you stay that way Ray- so you can enjoy your winter in Arizona. Matt and Donna Wolf will also be in Arizona for the winter- Yuma. This comes after a summer of shoulder rehab for Matt. We wish all of you the very best and hope to see you in Myrtle Beach next May for the national rally.

Sometime we just need to stay home and do “fix-up” stuff like Jim and Donna Catron did this summer- (Jim is also a past President). They took in the Cosmophere at Hutchinson. Jim spent time getting the motorhome ready to head to Texas for the winter. I wonder if he got a new antenna to replace the one he lost outside of Branson in June?

Everett and Elly Benkin spent a summer long sojourn thru the Maritimes and Atlantic Provinces of Canada and then on to Newfoundland. They spent a few weeks in Nova Scotia, followed by a few more on Prince Ed-ward Island. Needless to say, with $5.00 Lobster, they ate their fill AND filled their freezer. Umm, I’m jealous. Like us, they gave up on Norcold and headed for Kevin Mallory’s Cruising America in Celina, Ohio. We love our Samsung that Kevin and John installed for us two years ago, Ice cold milk and firm ice cream. It takes so little to make and keep me happy…

We spent our summer in the mountains, at Sunset Beach, NC including two great rallies and Ronnie’s home in Bell City, MO. One weekend his three chil-dren, grandchildren and the greats were there for a visit. After they left, we had the swimming pool all to our-selves. Too bad you have to get older to get to do that. We will head to Okeechobee, FL before Thanksgiving to spend the winter.

I’ll tell you one thing- no grass grows under my feet since marrying Ronnie Weeks. I love it!!! All is well.

Sincerely,Barbara Weeks


[ Chapter News ]

16

Parts and Service Update Steve Heim

Vice President, Customer Experience

Craig Biazo BIO Craig Biazo, a long -‐time manager for Allied Recreation Group, recently accepted the position of National Parts Operations Manager. Craig has served in various positions of increasing responsibility over the last 30 plus years. Prior to his new leadership role Craig served as the National Warranty Manager. Craig is looking forward to supporting ARG customers’ aftermarket parts needs. When you are in Decatur, please stop by at the Commerce Street facility and say hi! Decatur Service Facility Upgrade ARG has announced the significant upgrade to the Decatur, IN service facility at Patterson Street (Renderings shown at left). Proposed and approved plans were drawn by Pranger Group Inc., a local architecture and engineering firm. The approved plan is designed to include interior and exterior aesthetic facelifts to the existing service facility location. Service customers and visitors will also have access to a 49-‐site, paved campsite with electric hook-‐up and ample space for a tow vehicle. The campsite will be landscaped with grass and arbor embellishments. A privacy fence will be installed and border the campsite and paved walking paths will be available for pet owners. Facility visitors will have access to an exterior entertainment patio, equipped with two gas fire-‐pits. Visitors staying at the campsite may utilize the patio for socializing or relaxing for a true campground experience. The current facility will receive a two-‐story building addition and house an open model atrium with a welcome reception area to greet and welcome visitors. Owners and visitors will also have access to a loft-‐style, luxurious lounge with large, picture window overlooking the campground, complete with charging stations for personal devices and equipment. A complimentary laundry facility will be available for visitor use. Parts Store Allied Recreation Group, Inc. wants you to experience the lifestyle of glamorous camping, a.k.a. “Glamping”. You, our excellent customers, are the reason we have expanded our retail store in Decatur, Indiana. While visiting our manufacturing plant or service center, we want to provide all the necessities you need in one place. We are not just a parts store! We now provide aftermarket parts from Camco and Thetford, Coleman camping goods, Lodge cooking supplies, and our newest adventure; branded apparel, drinkware, caps, and more! We put our customers first and want to make sure that you have a great time during your visit.


While here, you will be greeted by a knowledgeable staff member who can help you with all your aftermarket parts needs. Please take time to browse the assortment of merchandise at your leisure. Some of our hot products consist of personalized Coleman Deck and Quad Chairs, ProdecoTech electric bikes, Coleman gas barbecue grills (available in multiple colors), Wild Travels pictures that are perfect for updating the look in your coach, and much more. We carry Thetford plumbing and chemical products, as well as, interior/exterior cleaning products, extension cord adapters and patterned awning mats. Be sure to check out our stylish American Coach Thermo-‐totes and Coleman vintage coolers that are perfect for keeping your drinks and snacks cool and within easy reach. Your life becomes an adventure when you purchase a coach! Traveling, meeting new people, attending rallies; anything is possible! Not only that, but you want to support and show how much you love your coach. This is the reason we carry all the branded apparel that you will need. We have a variety of jackets, long and short sleeve shirts, polos, t-‐shirts, hats, mugs, tumblers, bags, and other various souvenirs. So come, check out our expanded store and inventory next time you are in Decatur. We look forward to seeing you!

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Name(s) __________________________________ ____________________________________ Guest(s) __________________________________ ____________________________________ Address_______________________________ Active E-Mail _______________________________ City _________________________ State _____ Zip _________ Coach Length ______ ACA# __________ Cell Phone ( ) ________________ Cell Phone2 ( ) ___________________ First National Rally? ___ Yes ___ No Emergency Contact Name ___________________________ Phone Number ( ) _____________________ Chapter Parking Preference __________________________ Handicapped parking required? _____________

(If Yes, handicap placard is required and parking with a chapter is generally not available.) Please note any dietary restrictions: ___________________________________________________________

Fee Schedule: (Payable in USD ) Note: limited refunds for cancellations received after April 1st

Item: cost quantity total

1 coach – 2 per sons $ 399 1 coach – 1 per son $ 289 XTr a per son( s) & chi l dr en over 16 $ 110 pp Emer i tus – (does not include par king/site) $ 110 pp Chi l dr en under 16 Fr ee Ladi es Luncheon $ 25 pp Gol f, i ncl udes fees, box l unch and ½ car t $ 50 pp Check enclosed:

Make checks payable to: “ACA Myrtle Beach Rally” and Mail registrations to: Pauline Shea, Myrtle Beach Rally - 411 Walnut Street # 4708 – Green Cove Springs, FL 32043

Questions/Information : (601) 508-0532 – (570) 772-0640

(Please note: If a cancellation is required, depending on dates, some non-cancellable fees may be retained- Also, early arrivals may need to change sites when the rally starts)

In consideration of the American Coach Association or any of its Chapters, collectively referred herein as the “ACA”, accepting this reservation for the Rally listed above, I (we) agree to hold harmless, release, discharge and indemnify the ACA, its officers, directors, representatives, agents, servants, employees and/or volunteers and other organizers of the rally including any insurers or others acting on behalf of the ACA of and from any and all claims, debts, liabilities and and/or causes of action, whether known or unknown, anticipated or unanticipated, arising out of or in connection with my (our) attendance at the Rally, or traveling to or from the Rally. I (We) agree that we will bring no claims, demands, actions or causes of action against the ACA based upon the foregoing. SUBMISSION OF THIS COMPLETED RALLY APPLICATION BINDS YOU, YOUR COACH AND GUESTS TO THE FOREGOING PROVISION.

American Coach Association Spring National Rally Ocean Lakes Campground – Myrtle Beach, SC

May 9th to 14th 2016 Hosts: Southeast-Happy Wanderers-Mac Pack-Northeast


Myrtle Beach update for Nov/Dec 2015

Interest in the spring ACA rally at Ocean Lakes Family Campground is gaining speed… As of this writing, approximately 40% of the spaces are already spoken for, and we are getting calls every day with questions.

It seems that everyone wants to go “back to the beach”…. For our third ACA National rally at Ocean

Lakes – A Good Sam’s rated 10:10:10 campground -‐ the rally is set for May 9th through 14th. Myrtle Beach itself is a veritable playground of activities, including the boardwalk, promenade, shopping of all kinds, many golf courses to test your skills and more places to eat and buy trinkets than you can shake a

stick at-‐ here in Florida we call those souvenir type shops the veritable “El Turisto de Trapo”. We have reserved 200 sites-‐ each featuring concrete pads, 50amp, water and sewer-‐ and tons of nearby loose sand for careful insertion between your toes. Our sites are reserved as close to the water as possible-‐

right at the dunes. Hope you enjoy salt air…

The event will be hosted by 4 ACA chapters-‐ Southeast, Northeast, Mac Pack and the Happy Wanderers. Teams from each chapter have been judiciously visiting the campground in

advance, working on planning assuming duties to make sure we put our best foot forward to assist you in having a super time (tough work I know, but somebody has to do it) at the rally.

We’ve planned several really outstanding events, including an

offsite dinner at Benjamin’s Calabash seafood buffet, followed by an outstanding evening of entertainment and song at the “Legends in Concert”. There is also a great golf outing planned

for those who like to chase those little white balls.

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Most all of the events will be held in their 17,000 square foot recreation center, which is also conveniently located near our reserved sites.

Right across the street from the center, American Coach has plans to set

up 12 motor homes for you to view and check out.

Near where we’ll be parking, there is also a viewing pavilion, built right on the dunes-‐ you can use to check out

the “strand” as well.

Jim Graham, our food and entertainment chair, has provided for both great food and entertainment

during our stay-‐ The net result is that it should be at least a 5 pound rally… maybe closer to 10.

So, we hope you save the dates and plan to attend. The rally team

has gone overboard in planning what we hope will be a really fun time. More information will be provided as we go along-‐

remember that the registration form is in this issue-‐ or, you can sign up online at our website as well. Don’t wait too long, as we expect that this rally will be a sell-‐out!!!


AMERICAN COACH ASSOCIATION – 5th ANNUAL WESTERN REGIONAL RALLY March 31st – April 4th, 2015 - “The Ship Of Fools” April Fools rally

Golden Village Palms RV Resort, Hemet , CA.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE MARCH 15TH PLEASE PRINT Name(s)____________________________________________________________________ Address_____________________________________________________________________ City _________________________________State __________ Zip________________ Home Phone (_____) ___________ Cell 1(_____)___________Cell 2________________ Active E-Mail_____________________________________ ACA #____________________ Guest(s)_____________________________________________________________________

Coach: Heritage Eagle Tradition Revolution Dream Allegiance Limited, Length _________ #Interested in Golf________

We have a limited number of sites. To assure a reservation, please sign up early. Early Arrival / Late Departure - Contact the resort directly at 951-925-4123 Tell them you are with ACA to receive special rate. They will try to park you in your

rally site if it is available.

FEE SCHEDULE: 1 Coach - 2 people $ 320.00 $_______________ 1 Coach - 1 person $ 290.00 $_______________ Members with no coach $59.50 each number ( ) $_______________ Guests $59.50 each number ( ) $_______________ $_______________ TOTAL ENCLOSED Make checks payable to: Debbie Darby Mail check and registration to: 1021 Pinehurst Pl Camarillo, CA 93010 Questions: Bob Clapper [email protected] phone 909-721-1028

AMERICAN COACH ASSOCIATION – 5th ANNUAL WESTERN REGIONAL RALLY March 31st – April 4th, 2015 - “The Ship Of Fools” April Fools rally

Golden Village Palms RV Resort, Hemet , CA.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE MARCH 15TH PLEASE PRINT Name(s)____________________________________________________________________ Address_____________________________________________________________________ City _________________________________State __________ Zip________________ Home Phone (_____) ___________ Cell 1(_____)___________Cell 2________________ Active E-Mail_____________________________________ ACA #____________________ Guest(s)_____________________________________________________________________

Coach: Heritage Eagle Tradition Revolution Dream Allegiance Limited, Length _________ #Interested in Golf________

We have a limited number of sites. To assure a reservation, please sign up early. Early Arrival / Late Departure - Contact the resort directly at 951-925-4123 Tell them you are with ACA to receive special rate. They will try to park you in your

rally site if it is available.

FEE SCHEDULE: 1 Coach - 2 people $ 320.00 $_______________ 1 Coach - 1 person $ 290.00 $_______________ Members with no coach $59.50 each number ( ) $_______________ Guests $59.50 each number ( ) $_______________ $_______________ TOTAL ENCLOSED Make checks payable to: Debbie Darby Mail check and registration to: 1021 Pinehurst Pl Camarillo, CA 93010 Questions: Bob Clapper [email protected] phone 909-721-1028

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A new Website for the Big Rigs - WWW.MHRIG.COM

Dedicated to supporting travel for the 40+ footer!

My Wife and I bought our 2012 American Eagle to travel on the weekends to Dog Competitions, BBQ Festivals and just to check out cool things around the U.S.

We quickly learned in our travels that it was difficult to determine what campgrounds we liked and also which ones we would fit our bus.

We also realized that once we were on the road it was difficult to remember the cool places we read about and/or a friend told us about. We wanted to be able to find all the cool places to go, the great things to eat, the awesome festivals we would like to attend, etc. etc.

We started discussing the possibility of going more full-time on the road. We started to understand that if we were going to maximize the experience we needed some way to start organizing information in a clearer way so we could plan a destination but then find everything fun to do on our way. Hence the creation of www.mhrig.com

The first step was research on parks. We started reviewing the bloggers that provided great park reviews and location reviews and then adding their content to the map. The requirement was that the Blogger had to be traveling in a 40+ motorhome and/or RV and write great reviews with detailed pics and information.

The second step was to add all the cool stuff to do. We started discussing with friends who travel a lot, scouring the forums with a goal to find all the Festivals, Attractions and Factory Tours across North America.

The Third step was to add in all the great places to eat. We had already garnered a bucket list of restaurants but through even more research we brought together these and also restaurants we had heard are “do not miss” and loaded them on the map as well. We then added all of the restaurants that have been featured on 20+ seasons of Diners, Drive-in’s and Dives.

The fourth step was to identify all things RV related. The goal of this list was not to list everything but only the good stuff. We documented all the great RV Service Centers shared on the ACA forums. I then added all of the RV Shows across North America, and the ACA RV Rallies as well.

So that is the story….

The map as of October has over 1900+ points on it and it will continue to grow. What is important is that we only put good information, all available for everyone for free. You can go use it at www.MHRIG.com. Please email us at [email protected] with suggestions or there are forms you can post on the site as well.

We wish all of you well on your travels!!

Keith and Lynnea Landers

12 Eagle 42M

www.mhrig.com

Check out www .Mhrig .com


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Southwest Florida's newest Class A luxury Motorcoach Resort is now selling lots for your tropical winter location! Thornton Creek Motorcoach Resort is located just ten miles off Interstate 75, minutes from Punta Gorda and the Charlotte Harbor - gateway to the Gulf of Mexico.

Brought to you by the same developer of Deer Creek Motorcoach Resort, Thornton Creek has some of the largest motorcoach lots in the industry offering flexibility and endless opportunities to build your dream motorcoach destination. The resort features six lakes, 500 feet of waterfront on the Peace River and is next to an 18 hole golf course. Thornton Creek Motorcoach Resort promises to be the place in Southwest Florida for kayaking, golf, boating, fishing, beach and the best of Florida motorcoach living.

COME AND SEE WHAT ALL THE EXCITEMENT IS ABOUT! Call for a free three night stay! Barry Poole: 919-724-1957 or Laura Poole: 919-259-55478135 SW Sunnybreeze Drive, Fort Ogden, FL • [email protected]

We want to see your American Coach! Call us for a FREE 4 day 3 night stay!

by Debbie Darby

We knew salt could make food taste great, but we didn't know it could make our home a better place, too. Turns out a simple dose of salt can solve a whole slew of home disasters, like cracked egg messes and wine spills. And not only are the f ixes incredibly easy, but they're also usually cheaper than using other fancy cleaning products. 1. Get sticky gunk off your iron. Turn your iron on high, and spr inkle a generous amount of salt onto a piece of wax paper. Move the hot iron over the paper, and watch the salt cause your gunk to fall r ight off . 2. Chi l l white wine in a snap. Warm white wine? Never fear : Just put the bottle in an ice bucket with ice, water and a handful of salt. Twist the bottle to stir the salt around, and watch as the salt works its magic. Your bottle will be cold in no time. 3. Clean up a cracked egg. There's no need for wads of paper towels. Cover the mess with salt, and wait 10 to 15 minutes. The salt will turn the eggy goo into a crumbly sand that's easy to wipe up. 4. DIY dishwasher soap. If you f ind yourself in a pinch, make your own dishwasher detergent from salt, baking soda and regular dish soap. It works like a charm! 5. Get r id of caked-on pan grease. Cover the greasy residue with a layer of salt, then add some water and wait 10 minutes. The solution will dissolve the grease, allowing you to easily wipe it away. 6. Clear up a red wine sta in. Spr inkle salt on the fresh stain, and wait 5 minutes. Splash with cold water, and rub until the stain disappears. 7. Clean a gr ime-covered sponge. Fill a container with 2 cups of water and a quarter cup of salt. Leave your greasy, blackened sponge in the mixture overnight, then watch the gr ime fall r ight off . 8. Clean a gr imy wood cutting board. You shouldn't put wood cutting boards in the dishwasher, but you can disinfect them with hot water, salt and lemon juice. Rub the entire board with a cut lemon, squeezing the juice as you go. Spr inkle with salt and ‘scrub’ with the cut lemon. Rinse with hot water. 9. Clear up a hair c log in the dra in. Make a "nat ur al Dr ano" by mixing 1/4 cup of baking soda and 1/4 cup of salt. Remove as much hair from the drain as you can with your (gloved!) hands, and then pour the mixture down the drain. Follow with 1/2 cup of white vinegar, and let sit for 15 minutes. Rinse everything down with a pot of boiling water. Voila! 10. Get r id of mildew. To banish mildew stains and smells from clothes or towels, make a paste from salt and lemon juice. Rub the paste on the stain, then let dry (ideally in the sun). Run clothes through the washing machine for good measure.


Editor’s note- We are pleased to introduce Gary Brinck as a new technical contributor to this publication. You will see Gary’s postings on the ACA Yahoo group, DoItYourselfRV.com, Bus Conversion Magazine, AboutRVing.com and also on RVForum.net as well. He brings a wealth of RV technical and mechanical knowledge to the table, and we are pleased to have him join us.

RV Absorption Refrigerators- Protecting you and keeping them cool In recent years the RV absorption refrigerator has fallen out of favor because of numerous reports of poor cooling performance, cooling unit failures and even fires resulting from refrigerant leaks. The Norcold fridges in particular have had their reputation tarnished by recurrent problems and a massive safety recall, but Dometic has also recalled over 900,000 refrigerators for similar problems. The absorption refrigeration industry has responded slowly to these issues and residential-style refrigerators have made a huge inroad in the high end RV market where electric-powered refrigeration is both practical and desirable. However, the absorption unit remains the refrigerator of choice in smaller motorhomes where battery power is limited, in towable RVs where engine or generator power is less available, and among those who routinely spend days or weeks without access to the power grid. What can be done to make these refrigerators last longer and operate more safely? The primary cause of early life failure in RV refrigerators is excess heat, which causes deterioration of the refrigerant itself and thermal stress on the physical cooling unit. An overheated boiler in the cooling unit will crystallize the sodium chromate used to prevent internal corrosion by the ammonia, resulting in clogging of the tubing in the condenser and reducing or halting the cooling. At the same time, the loss of the sodium chromate makes the metal cooling unit susceptible to ammonia corrosion which eventually results in pinhole leaks. At the same time, the high heat stresses the welded joints to the point where cracks occur and the refrigerant is lost, perhaps spraying onto an area hot enough to burst into flame. The existing design of both Dometic and Norcold fridges allows the boiler to reach temperatures as high as 800 degrees F., far higher than the roughly 350 degrees F. needed to sustain the ammonia hydrogen absorption cycle. This can be prevented with the addition of a boiler temperature controller that monitors the heat and pauses the cycle whenever the temperature rises much above the optimum value. Such a device exists – the patented Absorption Refrigerator Protection Control for RVs (ARPRV). If every RV absorption fridge had this simple device installed, failures due to excess heat would largely be eliminated.

Why do RV refrigerators overheat and how does ARPRV help? There are a variety of reasons that can occur in normal operation. One of the best known is off-level operation, which interferes with the gravity flow of refrigerant back to the boiler and stops the cycle while the heater (LP gas or electric) continues to raise the boiler temperature. It only takes 3-6 degrees of tilt and several minutes to cause the temperature to shoot up. RVers may know that the fridge needs to be level, but often are unaware that overheating can occur in just a 15 minute lunch stop or while registering at the campground office. Nobody is going to level up their RV

in a brief situation like that, yet each occurrence causes cumulative damage that will eventually result in an early life failure. Another reason is turbulent air flow over or into the refrigerator upper vent, halting the flow of air over the cooling unit and overheating. This can happen when the RV is moving down the highway and winds buffet the upper vent area, or even when parked in certain wind conditions. Still another cause is poor installation and limited ventilation of the cooling unit, resulting in excess heat during hot summer days. Frequent 100+ degree weather across the country has shown

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that refrigerators installed in slide-outs are very susceptible to this because of the reduced air circulation when there is no rooftop vent). ARPRV continuously monitors the boiler temperature and pauses the heat source if the optimum range is exceeded. This is a different strategy than refrigerator manufacturer’s built-in controls, which allow the temperature to go to near the bursting point and then permanently shuts down the boiler. That approach does not prevent internal damage and allows the cooling unit to reach potentially dangerous temperatures, plus the food in the fridge is likely to be lost as a result of the shutdown. ARPRV is proactive in its management, keeping the refrigerator cooling unit in a narrow range where damage is minimal to none and saving the contents by restarting the operation after temporary overheat conditions have subsided. That’s a difference that every RV owner can instantly appreciate

Adding the ARPRV to an RV refrigerator is simple enough that any competent do-it-yourselfer or RV technician can do it in an hour or two and it requires no skills beyond basic 12v wiring. The display can be mounted either inside the RV where the owner can see it, or tucked away under or behind the refrigerator and left to do its job alone. An optional alarm circuit can be used to warn if a shutdown has occurred. ARPRV can also be used to control the operation of additional fans for both the cooling unit and interior. Paul Unmack, designer and patent holder of the ARPRV control has extended special pricing to ACA members who may be interested in this product. Please visit: http://www.arprv.com/forum-discount-shopping-cart.html for details.


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Technical Tips #85©

By Rob Lowe

Upgrading RV Rear Lights to L.E.D.’sOver the last few months, I have consistently noticed that the left rear turn signal on our 2009 Allegiance has been operating intermittently. Each time it was turned on, it might or might not, flash. We could be checking the lights on our towed vehicle and find that they were flashing, yet the RV’s signal was not. Just as one would think the bulb had burned out, it would begin flashing as expected. Occasionally, rapping on the housing with a fist, would bring the light back into operation, sometimes just long enough to leave me thinking it was OK. My first suspicion was that there was corrosion present or at the very least a loose connection since the bulb would light at times.

As you can see in the photo, there are two identical taillight housings on each side of the coach, one mounted vertically in the upright (right side up) position and one mounted vertically but “upside down”. The two backup lights were close to each other. In the lower housing the ‘bright’ light functioned as the ‘Brake Light’ and in the upper assembly the ‘bright’ light is the turn signal. The remaining lights in each bulb assembly were the taillights, while bulbs mounted on the side of the housing were marker lights.

From the time this coach was brand new, we have had problems with water being retained in the up-per light assemblies that are mounted ‘right side up’. It would not be unusual for the backup light bulb to be completely submerged in water and occasionally the water would be about one third of the way up the safety reflector in the assembly. In addition, with the lower housings being mounted ‘upside down’ drain holes had to be drilled in what was now the bottom of the assemblies although even with these drain holes, the housings would become waterlogged with algae forming on the inner surface.

I had removed each of the light assemblies just after we took delivery of our coach and vowed I would not do it again, since it was so difficult to access the bulbs. RV taillights are often van or pick up taillights adapted to fit in the rear cap. On our Allegiance, a large metal cover plate on each side needed to be removed to get access to the light housings, then a ‘Z’ shaped metal plate holding the fixtures themselves required some strange contortions to get it loose enough to remove. At this point, you have access to the bulb sockets so that they could be removed and the bulbs and connec-tions inspected. A simple bulb change took well over an hour and required patience to get your hands in just the right position to remove and reinstall the bulb socket.

With the recent light failures occurring so often, I dug into the problem and concluded that the upper signal socket was not properly seated into the housing and was torqued due to its location against the rear cap with insufficient clearance. The twisting was causing an intermittent connection on the signal light as well as water infiltration. I looked at a replace-ment connector however the ones that fit the housing were similar in size and shape so there was no advantage to be gained by replacing it. The surface of the red lens was also heavily oxidized, notwithstanding frequent wax and polish-ing efforts, further obscuring the light output.

Even though I do not recommend installing L.E.D. bulbs for RV brake, signal and taillight lighting (for safety reasons), I initially thought I’d simply change to L.E.D. bulbs. That exchange would not properly address the issues since it would leave the socket in place, retain the lens and we would still have algae build up. In addition, if there was any corrosion, experience has shown that these bulbs will not function reliably. This left replacement of the taillight housing as the cor-rect way to deal with the problems. I determined based on the numbers molded on the face of the lens that the lights were left and right taillights for a 1985 to 2005 Chevrolet Astro or GMC Safari vans. (Yes, GM used the same assembly for 20 model years)! I could have replaced the housings with the same or another brand of similar housings however I decided that if I was going to go to all the trouble, the improved performance and updated look warranted going with the L.E.D. version.

Knowing what light fixtures I needed, I did an online search for L.E.D. fixtures and found that Spyder Auto (www.spyder-auto.com) sells high quality L.E.D. replacements that I was assured, after contacting their customer service, would drop right into the existing location. They had three versions: Black, Smoke and Red. The different colors refer to the accent color of the housing with Black being the darkest, Smoke somewhat lighter and Red being “red”. I could have ordered them online, however since I might have to return them if they did not fit given the special configuration of the layout, I


thought I would see if I could obtain them locally. A search of auto parts stores in Goshen, IN (where we were located when the issue really became a problem) resulted in none being in stock however two pair of “Black” ones could be or-dered to arrive within a week. So we negotiated on pricing and paid just slightly more than I would have paid online plus the additional cost for expedited shipping. They arrived as promised and I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of the units and the simplicity in making them fit the mounting location.

They use L.E.D.s for the Marker, Taillight & Brake/Signal functions, and what is nice is that you simply insert a sup-plied, correctly wired “bulb base” into the RV’s existing brake and signal sockets. The RV’s existing marker light sockets are not used. Each of the RV’s existing Backup light bulbs are inserted into the new housings where a shiny reflector focuses the backup lighting out through clear lenses. I decided to buy four Superbright L.E.D.s (approved for “off-road use” only!) for each backup light as well. The replacement fixtures themselves are fully DOT approved.

It should be noted that the fixtures on our coach were mounted using specific hardware to contour the double fixtures to the shape of the RV’s rear cap. It is impor-tant, if you want the replacements to properly fit, that you replace the hardware, spacers and so on to exactly

match what was used to retain the factory original equipment. Each part has a reason for being there and must be replaced/re-used to allow the finished assembly to fit in place as did the original assembly. In the photo above you will notice that the center screws are mounted on some rubber whereas the end one(s) are flush mounted. When the hardware was fully removed I discovered that “well nuts” were used to provide the rubber spacing. The two fixtures are butted tight together however you

can see that there is a curve created when the red outer lens is mated to the flat metal mounting ‘Z’ bracket referred to earlier. There was also a rubber seal that is shown at the bottom of the photo of the original assembly, that if carefully removed, can be used to provide a seal (more visual than physical) between the installed new light assemblies and the rear cap.

After removing the existing ‘Z’ shaped brackets, then the existing fixtures and obtaining new mounting hardware, I then painted the Z brackets to prevent rust. Taking the time to align the two new fixtures into a contiguous unit will reward you with a custom installation that truly looks like the lighting assem-blies coming on new coaches. Install the bulb bases provided into the appropriate sockets and seal the sockets by twisting them in place so their grommets form a water tight seal. Since there is no need for large reflectors, the back of the new fixtures have ample room to fit in place and the interference issues with the body rear cap are no longer an issue. I could have completely removed the marker light wiring, however when carrying out the installation for the first time and not knowing if all would perform as expected, I simply taped over the marker light sockets and wrapped then taped their wiring to main harness to keep them from scraping on the metal assemblies.

Turning on the lights and inspecting the end result (after re-installing them) was amazing! The improve-ment in lighting, the modern look and the crisp “On” and “Off” of the signal and brake lights is superb

and eye-catching. The Taillight L.E.D.s are simply a dim version of the Brake and Signal lighting. When the brake is applied or a signal light is turned on the taillight increases instantly in brightness, then drops off instantly as the light is powered on and off when either braking or signaling. The side marker lights are dedicated L.E.D. bulbs mounted to provide lighting at 90 degrees to the rear of the coach, all nicely fitted within the existing fixture.(See the little rectangles on the side of the assembly in the photo to the left.)

If you want to improve the safety and appearance of your RV, replacing the existing rear light assemblies is a great way to go.

For past issues of Technical Tips go to the RV-Parts Plus Website atwww.RV-PartsPlus.com and click on Tech Tips or follow our Blog also on our

website. Tech Tips appear online prior to being printed.

ACA GROUPHey Everybody! This is Terry and Debbie, your cyberspace tour guides. Welcome!

The forum is alive and well with new members joining weekly. The forum is not your traditional chat group, but it’s a group of American Coach owners with a wealth of knowledge that continue to help each other with a variety of solutions for coach related issues. All you have to do is ask a question and someone out there will have a suggestion or solution. At the very least, you will be headed in the right direction to find a solution.

The forum offers a huge file database and links to pertinent web sites through the American Coach Yahoo Group web site. All the files and links were provided by forum members, so the forum is truly a place of participation where knowledge is shared amongst its members for the benefit of all. However, the forum is a place where you can hang your hat whether you lurk or participate, we are there for everyone.

The forum also offers a photos section where members have uploaded pictures of their projects to help others through the fine details of repairs and/or upgrades. Of course, many people have also uploaded pictures of their coaches, showing off their pride and joy. And rightly so! These American Coaches are beautiful which should make any owner proud to show them off.

Over the years the forum has made for more informed American Coach owners, providing insight into the idiosyncrasies of these coaches we love. You can ask just about any member if their ownership experience has been enhanced by their participation, and I can just about guarantee their answer will be a resounding YES!

As we head into the winter travel season, some people are putting their coaches in storage while others are bringing them out of storage to head to warmer winter quarters. Either way, the forum will continue to be there for all, whether you’re doing winter

maintenance projects or have items pop-up during normal daily usage of the coach. Just don’t forget to actually visit the American Coach Yahoo Group web site for a lot more information than what is passed through the emails.Thanks to all who participate. You have all made OUR coach owning experience much more fulfilling and fun!

There is no downside to joining the forum. No matter what year coach you have, you’ll want to join the fun! We invite you to visit awhile and get to know us and get a feel for the benefits derived from our forum. To get to the AC Yahoo site, go to the American Coach Association web site at http://www.myamericancoach.com and scroll down to the bottom of the page. Click on the “Yahoo” and you’ll be taken to the group site. Best of all, the price is right – FREE – and I can just about guarantee you won’t regret it!

Debbie & Terry ’06 Heritage

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Greetings from Camp Kevin’s… I don’t know about everyone else but I ask myself where has this summer gone?

This month I will talk about another Magnum product called the ME-AGS or (Automatic Generator Start).

Many of our coaches already have AGS on them but there is little or no control of what voltage the AGS will start. The Magnum AGS allows you to control RUN TIME HOURS from 1 hour to 5 hours and control the START VOLTAGE from 10 VOLTS to 12 VOLTS.

The Magnum AGS is designed to automatically start your coach’s generator, based on the inside temperature of the coach or in case of a low battery condition. These features allow you to leave pets in your coach when you are away without worrying about a power loss at the pedestal. Even if you do not have pets, there is nothing better than returning to a cool coach while dry camping in hot weather and no more worrying about dead batteries.

The Magnum AGS also includes settings for “Quit Time” to comply with park and rally rules. Also, the AGS does not interfere with your air conditioner controls or the manual generator start/stop switches in your coach.

There are two versions of the AGS. One is a “Stand Alone System” and the other is a “Network System”.

The stand-alone system is made up of the control module, a remote switch and communication cable. I install more of the stand-alone systems because it is less labor to install than the Network system. The stand-alone system has five adjustment knobs to set the “Run Time Hours, Start Temperature, Start Volts DC, Clock AM/PM Adjustment, Quit Time PM/AM Adjustment”. The installation of the stand-alone system consists of finding a good location to mount the AGS switch.

Because it has a temperature sensor built into it, an outside cabinet or wall is a preferred location. I usually install the AGS in the front of the coach because I have to connect signal wires to the “Start, Common, Stop, and Gen Hour Meter” switch in the dash. 12 volts and ground are also available in the dash area.Once the wiring is completed you will need to set the RUN TIME HOURS, START TEMPERATURE, START VOLTS, and QUIT TIME if you want to use that feature.

The Magnum NETWORK-SYSTEM also consists of a AGS module with a temperature sensor cable and a NET-WORK CABLE The NETWORK CABLE plugs into the MAGNUM INVERTER and the AGS control and infor-mation is displayed on the MAGNUM REMOTE.

Both systems work very well and allow for complete control of the TEMPERATURE and BATTERY condition.If you would like more information or would like us at Cruising America RV to install an AGS for you please give us a call.

I will also be at the Tampa Super Show in January and look forward to seeing many of you there.Safe travels,Kevin


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Rolling Recipes Sitting and Sipping with Friends Ahhhh, November! Crisp, cool, clear air and time to relax before the hectic pace of the end of the year and holidays. Hopefully you will get a chance to attend a rally before the end of the year and meet up with your friends. During the summer our motorhoming habit is to sit outside in the evenings, cool drink in hand, and enjoy the camaraderie of friends. But now that Fall has arrived, I think we need to mix it up a bit. Now it’s a warm drink, or a spicy one, and definitely it’s time to roll out those cute propane gas log campfires! With that in mind here are a couple of beverages that fit the bill and are so delicious. The first recipe is a warm white chocolate cocoa that everyone can enjoy. The second is an adult beverage that combines apple, cinnamon, vodka and whiskey. Doctor them up as you see fit and enjoy some relaxation with friends and family. Cheers! Please send your shared recipes to Bev at [email protected]

WHITEOUT COCOA (8 to 10 servings)

APPLE PIE ON THE ROCKS (serves 1, so think about a bigger shaker)

6 cups milk2 cups half and half12 oz. package white chocolate chips 1 Tbls. vanillaWhipped cream and nonpareils/sprinkles for topping1. Place milk, half and half, vanilla and white chocolate chips in a large pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until chocolate chips begin to melt. Reduce heat to medium-low. 2. Cook, stirring occasionally, until mixture is hot and chips are melted. Pour mix-ture into m ugs and top with whipped cream and sprinkles. Serve immediately.You can replace the milk with non-fat milk and the half and half with fat free. I used 2% Lactaid and it was still delicious. Should you leave the mixture out for very long at room tem-perature, the fat from the white chocolate will rise to the surface. Gently reheat and give it a good stir before serving! (We were experiencing a heat wave when I made this drink and my friend suggested we try it cold. News flash – it was still wonderful as a cold drink!)

1 oz. Vanilla Vodka1 oz. Fireball Whiskey4 oz. Apple JuicePinch of Ground CinnamonBrown Sugar for the rim IceOptional: Cinnamon Stick for GarnishI spread brown sugar on some wax paper, then I wet the rim of the glass. Gently press the glass into the sugar and voila’, a perfect rim of sugar on my glass. In a martini shaker, (or if you are in your motorhome, your Rubbermaid shaker – hahaha) pour the vodka, Fireball, apple juice and ground cinnamon together with a handful of ice cubes. Shake about10 times and pour into glass, being careful not to wipe off the sugar rim. Serve immediately with a cinnamon stick for garnish.


Nominating Committee ReportChairman Bob Clapper, on behalf of the Nominating Committee, composed of all American Coach Association Chapter President’s or their appointed designates, has submitted an initial slate of candidates for the offices of Secretary and Treasurer.

The candidates are:

Secretary, Jennifer Goergen- who is currently serving in this office

Treasurer, Brianne Brissett- who is currently serving in this office

The following are excerpts from the ACA bylaws as they pertain:

ARTICLE 8 ELECTIONS

8.1 The ACA shall conduct an annual election of officers, on a biennial term basis, in the spring of each calendar year. The President and Vice President shall be elected on odd numbered years and the Secretary and Treasurer, elected on even numbered years. The terms of office for the newly elected officers shall commence at the closing banquet at the Spring National Rally. If there are more or less than two (2) National Rallies in a year, the Board of Directors shall establish the schedule for the elected officers to commence their terms.

8.2 The nominating committee shall consist of each chapter President or the chapter President’s designate. At the beginning of the annual Fall National Rally each year, the President shall appoint from among those committee members present at the rally, one of its members to call the first meeting. At this meeting the committee shall elect one of its members to chair the committee and make the committee reports. The purpose of the nominating committee shall be to prepare a list of eligible current regular members as nominees for the offices of President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer in accordance with the election criteria set forth in Section 8.1.

8.3 The Nominating Committee Chairman shall submit a slate of candidates to the President at the final Board of Directors meeting of the Fall National Rally as stipulated in the bylaws and it will be published in the November-December issue of the ACA Magazine. Other members that qualify according to Article 8.2 may be nominated by a minimum of five (5) regular members. The name of each nominee and the five (5) regular members who are proposing the nominee, along with a written statement from the nominee that he or she is willing to serve if elected, will be submitted to the ACA Secretary no later than December 1. Each nominee should submit a resume of no more than 200 words with a picture to the ACA Secretary by December 1. The ACA Secretary will provide the Magazine Editor with all proposed nominees’ names, along with available pictures and resumes, for inclusion in the January-February magazine. If there are more or less than two (2) National Rallies in a year, the Board of Directors shall establish the schedule for receiving and publishing nominations.

ARTICLE 7 DUTIES:

7.5 It shall be the duty of the Secretary to keep a record of the proceedings of the Board of Directors and meetings of the regular membership; to keep and maintain at all times a roll of the regular and honorary members of the ACA; to receive and conduct, in a timely fashion, all cor-respondence for and on behalf of the Board of Directors; to keep and maintain the ACA’s files; and to perform such other duties as pertains to the office of Secretary. The Secretary’s duty to keep and maintain a Membership Roll may be delegated, at the President’s or Board of Directors’ discretion, to the ACA Membership Services Chairperson.

7.6 It shall be the duty of the Treasurer to receive and collect all funds owing to the ACA; to be the custodian of all the ACA’s funds collected; to pay all ACA’s bills, subject to the approval of the Board of Directors; to sign all checks for and on behalf of ACA; and to keep at all times an account of the funds and disbursements of the ACA in proper books provided for that purpose. The Treasurer shall never commingle the funds of the ACA with his or her own personal funds.

The complete ACA by-laws document is always available for download or review on the ACA website: www.myamericancoach.com - If you meet the qualifications as listed above, and wish to become a candidate for one of these positions, please submit your resume, include the required items from 8.3 above – “other members that qualify” – to Jennifer Goergen, ACA Secretary – not later than December 1st.

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Greetings from American Coach!

I hope this newsletter finds you well, somewhere around the countryside enjoying perfect weather complimented by an attractive view across the horizon. Right now, we are enjoying warm weather in the early fall, which makes it hard to believe that by the time you read this issue, winter and snow will be right around the corner for us… at least, for us here in Decatur, anyway. In the mean-time, we’ll just hope this warm weather stays around for a bit longer. This time of year is always exciting for us at American Coach. We have spent the past couple of months ramping up for what now becomes our busiest time of the year. We have a lot of shows on our schedule with a number of significant changes that we are confident that you won’t want to miss.

Before we talk about a few product specific updates, I would like to take a moment to share some organizational updates with you. In June, we had the honor to welcome Jim Jacobs to Allied Recreation Group. Jim joins us as president of ARG. If you have not had a chance to meet him in person, you can look forward to the leadership, vision, and direction that he offers the company. In the near, short-term, [more specifically, in the next couple of months to a year,] you will notice a lot of product changes. Those changes will eventually unfold into larger, long-term plans of progression for our brand as whole; all plans that are driven with an owner-centric focus on satisfaction and growth.

A large part of Jim’s commitment to company growth has been the emphasis he has given to improving the overall service experi-ence for our owners, to deliver a superior post-retail and aftermarket service experience for our owners by improving, enhancing, and renovating our existing Allied Recreation Group Factory Service Center in Decatur. The Service Center will undergo a major renovation and overhaul which will result in an impressive facility that caters to all aspects of owners’ service needs in a comfort-able, state-of-the-art building.

The newly designed layout includes plans to renovate the existing building, on Patterson Street, into a two story building that will feature a large, open atrium and spacious owner lounge, as well as complimentary laundry services. Owners will also enjoy a fully paved and landscaped campground with electric hook ups and social patio equipped with two fire pits for gathering. The Service Center will continue to offer the quality service support, staffed with our RVIA certified and master-certified ARG service technicians. Renovation is scheduled to begin shortly and is tentatively expected to be completed by spring of 2016. Watch for fur-ther updates on progress at our ARG Factory Service Center.

As for product updates: The 2016 Revolution, Allegiance, Tradition, and Eagle can now all be previewed on our American Coach website. Continue to watch, Heritage will be live soon in the near future, as well. And if you’re anything like me, and are anxious to see a peek at the new Heritage, visit our American Coach Facebook page at face-book.com/americancoach and see a glimpse of its first debut appearance at the Bristol Raceway in August. One last piece of excitement to share with you: We recently expanded our American Coach dealer network on the west coast to include Dennis Dillon’s RV in both their Idaho and California locations, and High River Autoplex & RV in Alberta, Canada. We are confident that both of these dealerships will represent the American Coach brand well for customers. They have a solid reputation for customer service and product knowledge. Together, we look forward to offering a wider selection of American Coach products across the country.

But before we bid you farewell until next time, I will take a quick moment to also inform you that if you missed us at the 2015 ACA Rally in Goshen, we premiered a limited selection of 25th Anniversary American Coach apparel and mer-chandise. If you have not had a chance to add these items to your collection, we have a few remaining items, if you’re interested. You may order them from our ARG Retail Parts Store at http://rvparts.argrv.com. As always, our team is busily focused on engineering the highest quality, luxury coaches for you and your family. As always, please feel free to reach out to me at any time. Your feedback is extremely important to me and valuable to our continued journey together. Pursue Your Passion, Lenny Razo Vice President of American Coach

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[ Upcoming Rally Details ]Southeast returns to the Keys 2015November 5 – 9, 2015Sunshine Key RV Resort & Marinahttp://www.thousandtrails.com/florida/sunshine-key-rv-resort-marina/November is a great time to visit the Keys. Recently the resort increased the number of our sites and we are at capacity. Check for availability- send an email to: [email protected] Registration form available at www.myamericancoach.com and www.southeastaca.net .

South Central ChapterDecember 6-10New Iberia, LACome join us for a wonderful Cajun Style Christmas Rally- at the RVera RV Park in New Iberia. More details will be avail-able soon on the South Central Website.

Southeast ChapterSarasota, Florida December 10th – 14th, 2015 Southeast’s Annual Christmas Rallyhttp://www.carefreervresorts.com/rv-parks/florida/sun-n-fun/Southeast returns to the award winning Sun ‘N Fun RV Resort for this annual popular event. Register and be eligible for ten extra days at a low rally rate of $38. Veteran hosts Larry & Margaret Carter with Bill & Carol Kimbrough have agreed to be our hosts once again. Registration form available at www.myamericancoach.com and www.southeastaca.net

Southeast ChapterLazydays – Seffner FloridaJanuary 13 – 17, 2016Southeast hosts the 5th Annual Eastern Regional RallyThis popular rally will be held at the same time as the nearby Florida RV Supershow. Rally includes four nights at Lazydays RV Campground, meals and entertainment. The registration process is different and much simpler for 2016. Check for availability by email to: [email protected] Check out the registration form and tentative agenda at www.myamericancoach.com and www.southeastaca.net

Southeast Valentine’s Day Rally February 11 – 15, 2016Torrey Oaks RV and Golf Resort, Bowling Green, FLwww.torreyoaksrv.comRally includes four nights at Torrey Oaks RV and Golf Resort, registration includes catered meals and continental breakfast daily. Register and be eligible for two early and two late days for the rally rate of $32.00 Registration form available at www.myamericancoach.com and www.southeastaca.net

American Coach Chapter of the FMCA Pre-RallyMarch 12 – 15, 2016Cecil Bay RV Park, Cecil, GAhttp://cecilbayrv.com/ The American Coach Chapter Pre-Rally leading up to the Family Motor Coach Association’s 93rd Family Reunion and Motorhome Showcase at Perry Georgia. This is a three night rally prior to caravanning to Perry, GA for FMCA’ 93rd Family Reunion and Motorhome Showcase. This is an ACC function, and is listed here as a courtesy.

Family Motor Coach AssociationMarch 17 – 20, 2016Georgia National Agricenter and Fairgrounds, Perry, GAwww.fmca.com - FMCA’s 93rd Family Reunion and Motorhome Showcase will take place at this facility located just off of Interstate 75, approximately 100 miles south of Atlanta. This is an FMCA func-tion, and is listed here as a courtesy.

5th Annual Western Regional RallyGolden Village Palms RV Resort, Hemet, CAMarch 31st – Apr 4th If you haven’t heard yet we are excited to share that we have confirmed the Western Regional rally location will be April fools weekend in Hemet Califor-nia at Golden Village Palms RV Resort. Check out the facilities www.goldenvil-lagepalms.com they are great! We are hard at work preparing for a great rally. Hemet is located just west of the Palm Spring area. The weather should be great and there will be plenty of field trip op-

portunities. More detail will follow as we get closer- Registration is online and in this issue.

Southeast Spring Rally April 28, - May 2, 2016Coastal RV Resort, Brunswick, GAhttp://coastalgarvresort.com/Rally includes four nights at the Coastal Georgia RV Resort. A great place to stop on your way to Myrtle Beach. Register and arrive two days early or stay two days late at the low rally rate of $35.70. A great starting point for a rolling rally or caravan 269 miles to Myrtle Beach.Registration form available at www.myamericancoach.com and www.southeastaca.net

Southeast Pre-Rally to the Spring NationalMay 6 -9, 2016Ocean Lakes Family Campground, Myrtle Beach, SChttp://www.oceanlakes.com/Mark your calendars! After you have reg-istered for the spring 2016 national, call the campground to reserve your extra days. Veteran Rally hosts, Terry (Muf-fin) & Belinda Moorefield along with Ken Browning & Johnny Spacek have already volunteered to host.

Pre-Rally to the Spring NationalMay 6th to 8th Ocean Lakes Family Campground, Myrtle Beach, SCBoth the Happy Wanderers Chapter and the North East Chapter have made plans to hold their pre-rally right at the Ocean Lakes Campground. Once you have made reservations to attend the Na-tional- you can call the campground and make your pre-rally reservations- This is important, as we are working to enable the attendees to remain on the same site for both events.

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[ Rally Schedule ]DATE LOCATION CHAPTER

Nov 5-9 Sunshine Key RV Resort (MM39) Southeast Chapter returns to the Keys-

December 6-10 A Cajun Style Christmas - New Iberia, LA South Central - Cajun RVera RV Park

December 10-14 Sun N Fun - Sarasota, FL Southeast Chapter Christmas Rally

2016 RALLIES:

January 13-17 Lazy Days RV Campground, Tampa, FL SE Chapter- 5th Eastern Regional Rally

January 17-20 Lazy Days RV Campground, Tampa, FL Happy Wanderers POST Rally

Feb 11-15 TorreyOaks RV and Golf, Bowling Green, FL Southeast Chapter Valentine’s Rally

Apr 28-May 2 Coastal GA RV Resort- Brunswick, GA Southeast Chapter

Mar 31-Apr 4 Golden Village Palms RV Resort, Hemet, CA 5th Annual Western Regional Rally

May 6-8 Pechanga Casino and RV Resort Mother’s Day Rally- Temecula, CA - SoCal

May 6-8 Southeast Pre-Rally to the Spring National, Myrtle Beach, SC

Southeast Chapter - Call Ocean Lakes Directly for pre-rally reservations

May 6-8 Happy Wanderers Pre-Rally - to spring na-tional at Ocean Lakes

Happy Wanderers- Call Ocean Lakes Directly for pre-rally reservations

May 6-8 North East Pre-Rally - to spring national at Ocean Lakes

North East - Call Ocean Lakes Directly for pre-rally reservations

May 9-14 ACA Spring National Rally- Ocean Lakes Campground- Myrtle Beach, SC

Rally Hosts: Northeast, Southeast, Happy Wanderers & Mac Pack Chapters

Aug 22-27 ACA Fall National Rally- Canyonville, OR Seven Feathers RV Resort

Sponsored by: NorCal/Northwest, SoCal and Southwest

ACA Spring National RallyOcean Lakes Campground, Myrtle Beach, SCHosted by: Northeast, Southeast, Happy Wanderers and Mac Pack chaptersMay 9th through 14thThis is the Association’s third trip to Ocean Lakes Campground in the past 25 years- We had wonderful rallies there in 2002 and again in 2007- so, it has been quite some time… People keep asking when we are going back- here is your answer…. Interestingly, we had right at 300 motor homes in attendance both of the previous times. It is truly a destination spot- and is one of the very few campgrounds in existence rated 10-10-10.

As we move through the year, you’ll see more details and information emerge both on line and in this magazine- We sincerely hope you’ll join us for some great spring fun. Events, information and registration materials are posted on line for your convenience. On line registra-tion is also open at this time- over 60 member coaches have already regis-tered.

ACA Fall National RallyCanyonville, OR – Seven Feathers RV ResortHosted by NorCal/Northwest chapterAug 22nd – Aug – 27thJust 3 months later and in the west- the fall national rally will be held August 22nd - 27th. The Seven Feathers Resort includes 23 acres of manicured lawns

and lush landscaping. You will also have posh accommodations, nestled in a can-yon of Douglas Fir and Pines, and includ-ing such amenities as an indoor heated pool, fitness center, guest lounge, 24 hour on site restaurant and right across the street is the Seven Feathers Casino.

The Seven Feathers fall national rally is being hosted by 3 chapters- NorCal/Northwest, SoCal and Southwest. More details will be published as they become available- Look for a mini-website on the ACA website to spring up right after the first of the year….


• NortheastMaine, New Hampshire, Vermont, New York, Massachusetts,Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Pennsylvania,Delaware & Maryland Bob Hershman, Membership Chair2415 Continental Dr.Warrington, PA 18976215-343-2448 • cell [email protected]$8.00 Initiation Fee$12.00 Annual Dues-less $1.00 prorated per month after July

• Mac PackKentucky, West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina,South Carolina & TennesseeJim Dee, Membership Chair1143 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Suite 107A-176Oak Ridge, TN [email protected]$8.00 Initiation Fee$12.00 Annual Dues, due July 1

• SoutheastMississippi, Alabama, Georgia & Floridawww.southeastaca.netPauline Shea, Membership Chair411 Walnut St. #4708Green Cove Springs, FL [email protected]$8.00 Initiation Fee$12.00 Annual Dues

• Great LakesMinnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio,Michigan & Southern Ontario, CanadaDiane DeMille, Membership Chair731 N. Williams Dr.Palatine, IL [email protected]$10.00 Annual Dues, due by July 1$5.00 after January 1

• Missouri ValleyNorth Dakota, South Dakota, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa & MissouriBarbara Weeks, Membership Chair2165 Grassy Branch Rd.Sevierville, TN 37876865-258-4704 • [email protected]$15.00 Annual Dues due by July 1

• South Central Chapter:Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma & Texaswww.aca-scc.comRobin Fagala, Membership Chair103 S. 68th StreetBroken Arrow, OK 74014cell 918-521-2658 $12.00 Initiation Fee$12.00 Annual Dues less $1.00 prorated per month after January

• SouthwestColorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Southern Nevada and Utahwww.acasw.comSue Ford, Membership Chair5531 Kings Row CourtLas Vegas, NV 89148702-540-0319 $8.00 Initiation Fee$12.00 Annual Dues less $1.00 prorated per month after July

• Southern CaliforniaSouthern Californiawww.socalaca.comBrianne Brissette, Membership Chair7534 Rock Crest LaneHighland, CA [email protected]$5.00 Initiation Fee • $15.00 Annual Dues, due June

• NorCal/NorthwestNorthern California, Northern Nevada andOregon, Washington, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Alaska,British Columbia, Alberta & Saskatchewanwww.norcalaca.comTerry Bennett, Membership Chair1970 N. Leslie St., PMB 334Pahrump, NV [email protected]$5.00 Initiation Fee$12.00 Annual Dues less $1.00 prorated per month after July

• Happy WanderersAll 50 States Plus CanadaRita Adams, Membership Chair524 Pleasant Home Ch Rd.Millers Creek, NC [email protected] $5.00 Initiation Fee$15.00 Annual DuesAnnual dues renewal date: January 1

[ Chapter Membership Chairs ]

38

Jan Thompson, ACA Membership [email protected] (501) 858-9564 • (727) 364-5327

We are excited to welcome a total of 23 new member coaches to the Association since the last magazine was published. We certainly hope that they will join us in all the fun of the fall rally season, which is now getting under way. Please join us in welcoming the following new members:

Dick & Pat Lokar, Clayton Perry, Bob & Robin Joyce, Charlotte Pressley & Anthony Russo, Neville & Tamela Matthews, Harold & Elaine Beck, Gary & Paula Fraser, Doug & Nancy Fleming, Art & Carol Yri, Ric & Roxann Burke, Paul & Connie Chiapparone, Tom & Cathy Palmer, Don McCullough, Steven & Mary Ellen Zeiger, Greg & Lisa Geiger, John & Dwayla Carr, John & Julia Stitt, CK Parsons & Lorna Henderson, Clayton Wilson, Robert Blakenship, Lloyd Pratt, George Wartsbaugh, Thomas & Cathleen Palmer and Jarold Fish

As we mentioned in the September/October issue, we were very close to the database issuing the 10,000 membership number since the Association was formed in 1990. They are: Steven and Mary Ellen Zeiger from Tampa, Florida. Please join us in celebrating this milestone and welcoming them to our organization, along with the other folks above.

Sincerely,

Janice Thompson, Membership Services

[ Membership Services ]

• Credit Card Services •You can join or pay your annual

dues with a Master Card or Visa on the ACA Web site*. We’ve taken pre-cautions to ensure it’s safe and no one will have access to your credit

card information.

• Membership Roster/By-Laws •Membership Roster & By-Laws can be viewed and downloaded from the

ACA Web site*. Please note we no longer mail out either unless one is

requested by mail or e-mail.

• Free Web Site Advertising •Members can place a classified “coach for sale” advertisement

on the ACA Web site. Best of all, it’s FREE!

• Membership Badges •New members receive their

Membership Badge(s) - they are FREE - with their New Member

Welcome Letter. Existing members who wish replacement badges must order them directly from McBee’s -

see below.

• Change Phone or Address •Change and/or view your personal

membership information on the ACA Web site*

All ACA mailings, including the ACA Across America Magazine, are mailed to the address listed in the

ACA Roster data base.

If you don’t have a computer (or hate to use one) just call or mail us and we’ll make any necessary changes or corrections for you.

Need Swingers, Badges or Ovals?It’s easy: Mail your order along with an enclosed check (US $), including your correct ACA Membership Number, to the following:

McBee’s • 909-336-2325 • PO Box 660, Lake Arrowhead, CA 92352• Swingers @ $3.00 each • Badges @ 10.00 each • Ovals @ $20.00 each - Prices include shipping and sales tax.

Questions? send e-mail to [email protected]

* Type in www.myamericancoach.com - on the home page, click on Membership Login and follow prompts.


[ Membership Form ]New Membership Application & Dues Renewal Form

Please complete this form and mail (with check in US dollars) to the ACA Membership Services address listed below

USE For Local Chapter Membership Application ONLY *I understand that I may join as many local chapters as I please but that I must be a member in good standing in

the National American Coach Association in order to join a local chapter - my membership number is: #____________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Owner’s name: first (if you prefer a nickname, use that) last

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Co-Owner’s name: first (if you prefer a nickname, use that) last

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Mailing info: address & street name city state zip U.S. or Canada

(_______)_______-__________________(_______)_______-________________________________________________________ Phone: home cell E-mail address

See Directory & Dues page for a listing of chapters, states they cover, dues & initiation fees and key contacts.Indicate the chapter(s) that you wish to join by checking the appropriate box(es)

o Great Lakes o Happy Wanderers o MacPack o Missouri Valley o NorCal/Northwest o Northeast o Southern California o South Central o Southeast o Southwest

Total of the enclosed check (see chapter requirements): $_____ Check number _____ Date mailed _____

* Send this completed form, along with a check in the correct amount for initiation fees and first year’s dues(US dollar please) and mail it to the appropriate chapter contact as listed on Directory & Dues page of this Magazine.

c u t & m a i l s e p a r a t e l y

• • • American Coach Association • • •PO Box 2428 #24502 • Pensacola, FL 32513

If you need to correspond with the Membership Services office directly, you can reach them at 501-858-9564 or send Email to [email protected]

When enclosing a check with this form, please fill in the following information: Select one: o Current ACA member # _______ o Reactivating membership/previous ACA # _______ o Applying for new membership o New or reactivated membership - $55 first year only ($45 annual dues plus $10 initiation fee) o Annual renewal dues - $45 yearly o Number or years renewal (select one): o One o Two o Total of your enclosed check $ _______ (US dollars please) Check number _______ Date mailed _______

Please type or print clearly. NOTE: If you are a New Member, the National Directory & your ACA badge will be exactly as listed. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Owner’s name: first (if you prefer a nickname, use that) last

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Co-Owner’s name: first (if you prefer a nickname, use that) last

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Mailing info: address & street name city state zip U.S. or Canada

(_______)_______-__________________(_______)_______-________________________________________________________ Phone: home cell E-mail address I/we own: o Heritage/year _____ o Eagle/year _____ o Dream/year _____ o Tradition/year _____ o Allegiance/year _____ o Limited/year _____ o Revolution/year _____ I/we belong to the following local chapter(s): o Great Lakes o Happy Wanderers o MacPack o Missouri Valley o NorCal/Northwest o Northeast o Southern California o South Central o Southeast o Southwest

40

c u t & m a i l s e p a r a t e l y

ACA Across AmericaThe Official Magazine of American Coach AssociationMembership Services12214 Arron TerraceNew Port Richey, FL 34655

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The Official Magazine For Owners Of Heritage, …Membership Services Chairwoman - Janice Thompson...

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