By Vaughn Wood, F334650
November 2016
Don and Margaret Hoffman, owners of Hoffman Coach, joined FMCA in 1966 and became members of several chapters. But none of them were near the Hoffmans’ northwestern Pennsylvania business and home, so in 1975 Margaret led the way for a new chapter in western Pennsylvania. The Allegheny Mountain chapter was founded that October with 21 member families.
Within the chapter, many things have changed over the years, but some have not. The personality of the chapter always has been one of friendliness and inclusion. Rallies are usually in the summer months. Often in the past, they were held at a member’s farm or backyard. As membership and motorhomes have changed, rally locations have gravitated more to established campgrounds. Chapter members have enjoyed gatherings in Pennsylvania from Erie to Gettysburg, and points in between, as well as parts of New York and Ohio.
The chapter’s 40th anniversary rally was held May 20-22, 2016, at one of the members’ favorite spots — Sharp’s Campground, near the little town of Shelocta, Pennsylvania. Shelocta is not far from Indiana, Pennsylvania, the birthplace of Jimmy Stewart, the acclaimed actor and decorated war veteran.
Members arrived in 14 motorhomes to participate in the weekend activities. A Friday night potluck dinner was followed by a campfire and the added treat of music from country singer Frank Marchitelli.
After Saturday breakfast, a brief business meeting was held. John Reynolds, FMCA national vice president, Eastern Area, presented our 40th anniversary certificate and check. He also reviewed the benefits of membership and offered some news on FMCA activity and scheduled events. Our thanks to John and his wife, Jayne, for helping us celebrate this anniversary.
A good old-fashioned Yankee swap grab-bag event filled Saturday afternoon. The evening included dinner at the Rustic Lodge in Indiana, Pennsylvania, where we were joined by a few members who could not be with us the entire weekend. Entertainment was provided by Cindy Speck, a ventriloquist who brought three “assistants.” We still wonder how those “dummies” dug up the dirt on so many members.
After a Sunday morning casual breakfast/lunch, members parted with well wishes and hopes for safe travel.
If you would like more information about the Allegheny Mountain chapter, contact adhimes@consolidated.net.