By Wendy Hann, A166403
June 2017
We were excited when we saw information in a past issue of Family Motor Coaching magazine regarding FMCA’s 95th International Convention — “Rally In The Valley” — which would be held in Chandler, Arizona, March 7 through 10, 2017. We were even more excited when we read that towables would be welcome at the event. So, we called FMCA to make sure we could attend with our 2016 White Water Retro 18½-foot travel trailer.
As members for many years, we have attended other FMCA international conventions, including Pomona, California, and Albuquerque, New Mexico. We have enjoyed them all.
As RVers, we have run the course of various units, starting with a towable RV, then moving to Type C motorhomes, Type A motorhomes, and back to trailers. We love RVing. At this point in our lives, our latest towable allows us to continue traveling whenever we get the chance.
We were met with open arms at the “Rally In The Valley.” The volunteers helped us park and they were friendly and very accommodating. We never felt unwelcomed.
Two nice men in a golf cart came over before we set up; they greeted us and expressed interest in our trailer. They asked whether it would be okay to return and check it out once we were settled in. Of course, we delightfully said yes.
They did return. That’s when we found out who they were: FMCA national president Charlie Adcock and national senior vice president Jon Walker. We also were informed that President Adcock was scheduled to speak at the convention about FMCA’s future.
His presentation was impressive with all the statistics he provided regarding FMCA and RVs. We mostly respected the perspective: FMCA becoming inclusive of all RV owners.
Many RV owners know other RVers who have made this downsizing transition, or are a younger group and starting out in towable RVs. As for us, we know many. It will be exciting to see what happens with a vote* on this matter. If the vote to add towables to the FMCA family is favorable, we are curious what the ownership statistics will become in the near future.
At FMCA events, do you see motorhomes sitting in seminars or attending other events? No. You see people. Members, all getting along; having fun; and sharing ideas, memories, traveling experiences, and more.
As President Adcock mentioned, it’s not about the equipment. Celebrate the RV lifestyle — whatever equipment an owner chooses! Open new doors for FMCA’s future.
*Editor’s note: The FMCA Governing Board will meet on July 12 during FMCA’s 96th International Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana, and vote whether to put this proposed change before the entire membership. If the Governing Board vote passes, the plan is to place a ballot in the September, October, and November issues of FMC magazine so that all FMCA members can vote on the proposal.