Hundreds Gather For South Central Area Rally
By Mary Powell, F63960
February 2018
Four dozen exhibitors, 38 seminars, and 22 craft sessions, as well as entertainment, activities, and socializing, highlighted the 44th South Central Area Rally, held October 25-28, 2017, at Four States Fairgrounds in Texarkana, Arkansas. The event drew more than 600 people and 318 motorhomes.
The rally’s first activities included a golf scramble at Texarkana Golf Ranch, an appreciation dinner for volunteers, and a gathering to welcome more than 175 newcomers. When exhibits opened, people could explore 15 new motorhomes. The ice cream social produced smiles, as well as the chili cook-off, was delicious. Seminar presenters included Jon Walker, FMCA national president; Rett Porter, FMCA national senior vice president; and Gaye Young, FMCA national secretary.
Other fun activities included a performance by magician and comic Doug Anderson at the ladies’ luncheon; line dancing, which was presented on three rally days by FMCA national secretary Gaye Young and some of her friends; and a tour of historic Washington State Park, which took people back in time to the 19th century. A costume parade and RV decoration contest were followed by a Halloween dance party hosted by disc jockey Dennis Hunt of the Gateway Getaways chapter.
Members of the Coaches for Christ – South Central chapter presented morning devotions, while members of the Roamin’ Catholics – South Central chapter arranged for Mass and rosary services. The Frustrated Maestros – South Central chapter accompanied the Texarkana Fire Department’s color guard at opening ceremonies and performed during breakfast each day.
The Night Life
Three nights of entertainment included Willamae, whose specialty is down-home country comedy; the Southwest Surfers, a Beach Boys tribute band; and the Night Hawk Band.
One early evening was set aside so that each chapter could gather with its members. In addition, 20 chapters participated in a chapter fair. Aimed at recruiting new members, the displays highlighted fun chapter activities and future events.
The generosity of FMCA members was apparent in several ways. The rally’s annual quilt social included a display of more than 300 quilts, which were donated to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas; Fisher House; and the Arkansas State Veterans Home. In addition, the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund raised $6,500 from bingo games, fundraising drawings, and donations. The money went to five FMCA member families from the South Central Area who suffered major losses.
The Governing Board of the Six-State Rally Association elected these officers: Herman Mullins, senior vice president and rally master; L.B. Butts, North Region vice president; Herman Alsup, South Region vice president; Dianna Huff, secretary; and Connie Pool, treasurer. Joe Wright, national vice president, South Central Area, recognized the service of the officers who completed their terms: treasurer Frank Taber; secretary Connie Farrar; and North Region vice president Les Price.
Everyone is busy during the rally, but there is always time for an impromptu gathering to meet new friends and talk about travel and fun times, or to help someone with their RV. Mark your calendars for the 45th South Central Area Rally, September 19-22, 2018, at the Heart of Oklahoma Exposition Center in Shawnee.