Many thanks to the de Graffenreids for hosting the Spring Rally of the Western States GMC club. It was held at the Emerald Desert RV Resort in Palm Desert, CA. This resort is a 5 star park with two swimming pools, 3 Jacuzzis, putting greens, tennis and pickle ball courts. The clubhouse was fully equipped with stage, dining room, dance floor, pool tables, full kitchen and air conditioning.
This well-planned event included technical workshops under the direction of VP Gary Bovee and again was helpful to all. Some of the technical workshops included “Towing and Safety Features” by Blue Ox, “Installing the atomic EFI kit on my 23’ GMC” by Gene Fisher, “Rebuilding the Olds 455 Engine” by Steve Ferguson, “Improved MPG with HHO System” by Chuck Botts and a final session of “Ask the Experts” featuring a panel of experts: Gary Bovee, Gene Fisher, Jim Kanomata and Steve Ferguson.
Women were provided craft activities by Jodell Banovich and her team. These included making a scrappy pin cushion, a friendship box, a Mason jar candle holder and leis for Hawaiian night. Women also enjoyed participating in a cooking class with Donna de Graffenreid where they learned to make Hawaiian bread pudding.
Unfortunately Lillian Trubert did not make it to the rally to lead the Book Club and dollar sale. There is no shortage of creative thinkers in this club. We figured it all out and what really happened to Richard Parker.
Many vendors brought things to show and sell including Jim Kanomata whose table was frequently surrounded by people who wanted parts and advice. Other vendors included Gary Bovee, Gene Fisher and George Banovich.
Food was a little tricky this year as the caterer that Dave and Donna had set up went out of business one week before the rally. However, the de Graffenreids had another caterer up their sleeves who came in last minute and saved the day. Meals included lasagna, ribs and chicken, Dave’s famous gourmet burgers with sweet potato fries and a last night Hawaiian Luau. Dave can cook burgers for me anytime! Breakfasts were also provided every morning. Supplies of beverages were plentiful at each meal and in between. Decorations were made the first afternoon of the rally and gave a great ambiance to the room.
A happy hour was held every night from 5-6:00 p.m. It gave members a chance to socialize and get to know each other better while enjoying drinks and snacks. And of course, games were ongoing.
Nightly entertainment included Armand Minnie and his Karaoke machine. Freddi was a frequently requested singer and didn’t let us down. Beautiful job by a beautiful lady! Many others participated in what has become a permanent event at our rallies. Thanks, Armand.
Thanks to Steve Ferguson who not only taught a workshop but brought his guitar to play and sing with us.
Another event which was new to me this year was the couples’ game. Ideal GMCWS Couples or Just how well DO you know your spouse??? I don’t know how Dave and Donna think these things up?
The Spring 2015 Membership Meeting was held on Tuesday, April 14, 2015 with Jack Kincaid leading the Pledge of Allegiance and Beth Elmer singing the National Anthem. New members were welcomed along with the numerous GMC Clubs participating in the Rally. New and Old Business was conducted (details can be read in the Minutes of the Meeting). The President acknowledged the hard work and dedication of the presenters, volunteers and Rally hosts. The Executive Board was thanked for their hard work throughout the year. A special thanks went to President Freddi Condos for her hard work and dedication to the club.
These rallies don’t work without a lot of volunteers. Many thanks to those who helped with food and clean up, those that taught the seminars and those who organized the event. Where else would a bunch of people pitch in so willingly to help others? It’s nice to share these diehards with our friends who know them well and who help each other maintain them.
Next rally is in Pueblo, CO, Starting September 17-21. Watch for details! Hope to see you there!
Submitted by Beth Elmer
ATTENDEES:
Banovich, George & Jodell Kading, Hal & Shirlene Bates, Loren & Virginia Kanenbley, Charlie & Patricia Botts, Chuck & Mary Kanomata, Jim Bovee, Gary & Rebecca Kincaid, Jack & Mary Caldwell, Bob & Gloria Leach, Lester & Mary Cantrell, Dave & Arlene Martin, Bob & Ruth Christensen, Jack McCune, Garen & Susan Ciz, George & Diane McCurter, Danny & Barbara Clark, Lynn & Sandy Meyers, Darryl & Susan O’Farrell Clark, Ron & Linda Minnie, Armand & Carol Condos, Frank & Freddi Morris, Terry & Gloria de Graffenreid, Dave & Donna Price, Ben & Mary Elmer, Mark & Beth Roenick, Nick & Donna Ventura Ferguson, Steve & Nancy Ruff, John & Cathy Fisher, Gene & Melissa Shourt, William & Michele Garton, Chuck & Dorris Snyder, Richard Gaw, Betty & Marilyn Maxwell Staal, Ed & Eileen Guttman, Donald & Billie Terry, Cal & Roberta Hauge, Hoss & Charlotte Hernandez, Phil & Joanne Hickerson, Bob Wagniere, Ron & Karen Huston, Helen & Janet Kobs Weinstock, Steve & Merrie Johnson, Art & Jacqui Wright, Dale & Susane