Honoring a strong past and looking forward to a bright future.
By Lynda Micikas, F451914
August 2022
The Colorado Columbines celebrated their 30th year as an FMCA chapter June 9 through 12, 2022, by bringing both longtime and new members together to enjoy an epic weekend of fun, laughter, great food, and wonderful conversation. More than 50 guests participated in the celebration rally held at a picturesque working farm west of Fort Lupton, Colorado. In phrases borrowed from several members, “What an awesome gathering,” “a setting of rustic elegance,” “the goodness of friends, old and new,” and “It was delightful.”
Dick Greener, the only living cofounder of the Colorado Columbines, received a lifetime chapter membership.
The idea of starting the Columbines took on tangible form in late 1992 when cofounders Floyd and Jane Smith and Dick and Bev Greener held an organizational meeting in Loveland, Colorado. Their presentation was so compelling that 58 charter members driving 30 rigs signed their names to the application that very night. FMCA approval soon followed, with the Columbines officially gaining chapter status on December 6, 1992. Enthusiastic participation continues to this day, with rallies held once a month from June to September, and spring, autumn, and Christmas luncheons scheduled as possible.
The anniversary rally opened Thursday with the chapter’s traditional “heavy hors d’oeuvres” potluck and lots of catching up, first around the food and then around the bonfire. Friday morning brought a hearty farm breakfast prepared by the farm’s owners and rally trail bosses — Harley and Pat Troyer — and their neighbors.
Friday morning and afternoon boasted an RV item rummage sale, yard games, and a true Colorado pig roast with all the “fixin’s” everyone could eat. The barn dance that followed engaged dancers and onlookers alike in spirited renditions of not only old-style country dances like the Virginia Reel but also contemporary line dances like the Electric Slide!
Saturday’s commemorative luncheon at the Cattlemen’s Steak House & Saloon in nearby Greeley was planned by committee members Pat Gonser, Rhonda Moore, and Dick Greener. The luncheon featured a delicious multicourse meal, whimsical on-the-spot creations by a talented balloon artist, and a group photo to be given to members as valued mementos of a very special time together.
Bill Hendrix, longtime FMCA magazine contributor, arrives at the rally.
The Columbines also stopped often to remember the chapter’s origins and longest-serving members. The chapter’s oldest member, Bill Hendrix, was honored at the farm breakfast for his significant contributions to both FMCA (including articles in FMCA’s magazine) and the RV industry.
At the commemorative luncheon, Rocky Mountain Motorhome Association (RMMA) senior vice president Connie Jones presented the chapter with its 30-year anniversary certificate and recognized cofounder Dick Greener and charter member Perry Kellogg for their contributions to FMCA, RMMA, and the chapter. Both Perry and Dick were honored by the chapter as well; Dick was given a lifetime membership to the chapter that he cofounded and to which he still provides wise counsel and caring leadership.
For more information about the Colorado Columbines, contact Mike Micikas at mpmicikas@gmail.com or (720) 289-5905.