blue beret october 2013

October 2013

... in a NEW Airstream

Flying Cloud!Bunk/twin/queen

floorplans available.

See our new Live Riveted

Share yourLive Rivetedstory & inspireothers.Visit www.airstream.comto post experiences,photos, & advice abouthow you engage in theAirstream lifestyle.

Blue Beret / October 2013 3 2 Blue Beret / October 2013

Presidents Corner

BLUE BERET is the official publication of the Wally Byam Caravan Club International, Inc. (WBCCI), the recreational vehicle club of Airstream owners. BLUE BERET welcomes contributions of articles, photographs, news items and adver-tising. However, their publication in the BLUE BERET does not constitute endorsement. The opinions of the authors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of either the BLUE BERET or WBCCI. The products and claims of advertisers are their own and, too, do not necessarily represent endorsement by either BLUE BERET or WBCCI.

Address corrections, suggestions, stories, art, photos, ad-vertising and paid mail subscriptions ($25/year, included in members dues) may be mailed to: BLUE BERET/WBCCI, P.O. Box 612, 803 E. Pike Street, Jackson Center, OH 45334, Phone 937/596-5211, Fax 937/596-5542, email: [email protected] POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: BLUE BERET/WBCCI, P.O. Box 612, 803 E. Pike Street, Jackson Center, OH 45334.

BLUE BERET (USPS 669-270; ISSN 0744-5601) is published monthly except December and July. Periodical mail postage paid at Jackson Center, OH and additional mailing offices. Canada Publications Mail Agreement #41295545. Canada Post Returns: 7289 Torbram Road, Mississauga, ON L4T 1G8. Notification of address change is the responsibility of the member or recipient and should be received at least two months in advance to avoid delays in forwarding. Re-mailing of back issues is at recipient expense.

I am pleased that the Florida Unit is sponsoring the New Florida State Rally, which is scheduled for April 2-7, 2014 in the Florida Keys. The Directors are Tom Maciejczyk and Dan Maciejczyk. A rally fee of $260.00 includes parking and 5 point hook-up. Tom and Dan plan to move the rally from South Florida to North Florida every other year. Sandy and I are looking forward to attending this rally next April. There is much to see and do in the Florida Keys. One of our fondest memories of the Keys is riding in an air boat in the Everglades.

I hope that many of you will attend our 57th International Rally next year in Gillette, Wyoming. We will honor all veterans, American and Canadian, who attend this rally. Every attending veteran will receive a special ribbon to attach to his or her badge with Veteran on it. This is our way of thanking each veteran for their service to these great coun-tries America and Canada. Norm Beu will present a special program on MIAs at Gillette. June 27th will be Wounded Warrior night with Janie Haddaway as Chairman.

We have some great entertainment lined up for your enjoyment. The Scott Woods Band will perform as the featured entertainment on July 1st, Canada Day.

The city of Gillette and Campbell County residents are looking forward to our return to their area.

Wishing you safe travels and many blessings,

John & Sandy Stumpf


Copy Deadline for the February issue is December 15.

Whats Inside... Vol. 49 October 2013 Issue No. 9

Presidents Corner ....................................2Club News ..................................................6

Welcome New Members ........................................................................................6Membership ............................................................................................................8Region 7 Tall Ships Rally - A Cooool Time! ....................................................10Inspiration 101 ......................................................................................................13Headquarters Notes ..............................................................................................15Oregon Unit WBCCI Airstream Club in 1859 Magazine ....................................17Airstream Tech Help Group .................................................................................22Helpful Ideas for ALL Airstreamers ....................................................................26WBCCI Kids Page ...............................................................................................27In Memoriam ........................................................................................................50

International Rally ...................................29Caravans ..................................................30

Lets Talk About Short Caravans ..........................................................................30

National Rallies ........................................3233rd Hobo Rally ...................................................................................................32

Intra Clubs ................................................33Classic Airstream Club .........................................................................................33Vintage Airstream Club ........................................................................................33

Region News ............................................34Airstream 937-596-6111 ........................38

Schus News .........................................................................................................38

Event Schedule ........................................44Classifieds................................................51Coupons ...................................................52

803 E. Pike StreetJackson Center, OH 45334-0612

Phone 937-596-5211FAX 937-596-5542

www.wbcci.org

Wally ByamCaravan Club

International, Inc.

INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

President .........................................John Stumpf1st Vice President ......................... Joe Perryman2nd Vice President .................Jim Schwerdfeger3rd Vice President ....................... Richard GirardRecording Secretary ....................Louise HumbleTreasurer ........................................... Ron GordyPast President .............................. John Boutwell

REGION PRESIDENTSRegion 1 ..........................................Ray RichardRegion 2 ...................................... Pat McFaddenRegion 3 ...................................... Jay ThompsonRegion 4 .........................................Marjorie LotzRegion 5 .............................................. Barry BellRegion 6 ....................................... Lonnie CarverRegion 7 .............................................Linda AgreRegion 8 ...................................Leonard SullivanRegion 9 ........................................Linda KnezekRegion 10 ...........................................Carol OrtizRegion 11 ....................................... Roger PruterRegion 12 ................................Robert StansburyParliamentarian ..............................Dona Garner

COMMITTEESBlue Beret ...............................Cecelia StansburyBudget ................................................June RyanCaravan ............................................Chuck KipleCommunity Service ........................Janet KendigConstitution & Bylaws ........................Don ShaferElectronic Communications ........... Damon BealsEthics & Grievance ....................Karin KurkowskiFamily & Youth .................................Linda AmmeHistorian .......................................... Marla BradyIntl. Relations ................................ Jim ElmlingerLegislative .......................................Richard JirusLifetime Membership ................... Richard GirardMarketing .................................. Fred RichardsonMembership .............................. Helen BourgeoisNational/Special Events ........... Carolyn FlorenceNominating ................................... John BoutwellPlanning Guides/Merit Awards .. Roy MacDonaldPublic Relations .......................Rhonda ColemanRally Promotions .....................Rhonda ColemanTechnical ................................. Howard Lefkowitz

WBCCI STAFFCorporate Manager andBlue Beret Managing Editor ..............Cindy Reed [email protected] Beret Copy Editor .......................Deb Sailor [email protected] Director .......................... Deb Mann [email protected] Services .........................Julie Rethman [email protected]

CONTRIBUTING EDITORSRegion 1 ..........................................J. Rick CipotRegion 2 ...........................................Kathy BlakeRegion 3 ......................................Joan AndersonRegion 4 ...........................................Nancy BrettRegion 5 .......................................Patsy MarstonRegion 6 ....................................... Lonnie CarverRegion 7 ............................... Region 7 MembersRegion 8 ...................... Betty & Leonard SullivanRegion 9 .........................................Andy SelkingRegion 10 ........................................ Mona HeathRegion 11 ........................................... L. LawsonRegion 12 .............................Kia Kelley-Johnson

on the cover...Cover provided by Airstream, Inc.

Explore the Live Riveted lifestyle & get inspired by the Airstream community!Visit www.liveriveted.com and find out how.

AIRSTREAM is a registered trademark used under license.

Blue Beret / October 2013 5 Blue Beret / October 2013 5 4 Blue Beret / October 2013 Blue Beret / October 2013 5

Blue Beret / October 2013 9

10 Blue Beret / October 2013

Airstream RVs arrived at Buffalo Valley Resort on Wednesday, July 24th, and opening ceremonies were held that evening, following a potluck supper. At the ceremonies, a check from SkyMed, in the amount of $5,000, was presented to the Hands of Peace project. Thursday was the first of several fantastic days. Following a breakfast of egg, cheese and ham on an English muffin, we boarded shuttle buses for the 30-minute ride to the Duluth harbor area. This was the day we boarded an excursion boat to sail out onto Lake Superior to meet the tall ships as they sailed in. After all 110 caravaners were there, we boarded the Vista Star for our cruise out onto the lake, where we spent nearly 2 hours watching the tall ships sail past and into the harbor. There was a lift bridge that the ships had to pass under and, since pedestrians and vehicular traffic needed some time to transit the bridge, the tall ships had to enter in groups of three to allow the occasional lowering of the bridge to accommodate the land lubbers. This permitted everyone on the Vista Star to get some really nice photos of the ships as they sailed past. There were nine tall ships, ranging from rather small ones (58 feet long) to some very large ones (210 feet long). One ship was missing,

REGION 7

- A COOOOL TIME!Chuck Cabalka #6464

however. It seems that a couple of days previous, lightning had struck a mast on that ship, starting a fire. It was quickly put out, without loss of life or major damage, but there was sufficient loss to prevent it from joining the rest in the parade and the festival. Rain had been forecast but, fortunately, it held off until we were nearly back to the campground, when it really broke loose. While we were indoors enjoying our picnic supper of hotdogs, potato or macaroni salad, baked beans and watermelon, the skies simply opened up. Nonetheless, we had a wonderful day to enjoy seeing the tall ships sail into port. What a sight!!

It was cloudy and foggy on Friday, as we were again transported via shuttle to the festival site at the harbor area in Duluth. The community was expecting a third of a million visitors due to the Tall Ships Festival and the crowds reflected that. Not even inclement weather (it rained three times during the day) pre-vented long lines to board and walk the decks of several of the moored ships. The four most popular ships were the 157 schooner Pride of Baltimore, the 150 barquentine Peacemaker, the brig Niagara and the 210 full-rigged ship Sorlandet. The Peacemaker was ac-companied by a greatly modified bus, both of which are owned and manned by a religious group that promotes commune-style living. The Sorlandet was a Norwegian training ship that has now been converted to a sailing classroom for high school juniors and seniors. The Sorlandet was part of the Norwegian venue at the 1933 Worlds Fair in Chicago and hadnt been back to the US since. That made it a really special attraction at the festival. There were three of the sailing ships that were taking passengers out for a short sail (for money, of course) and they were fully booked. After visiting one ship each and in light of the long waiting lines, many

in our group decided one was enough, so, it was on to find something to kill time until the shuttles returned to pick us up at 3:30 PM.

One place to spend some very inter-esting time was a self-guided tour of the retired iron ore carrier SS William A. Irvin, which has been converted into a museum in the harbor area. It was retired in 1978 since, even at 611 feet long, it had become too small to continue in use. The tour through the ship covered the engine room, crew quarters, galleys, captains quarters and the lodgings for eight passengers. US Steel, owners of the ship when in operation, would invite moneyed people to travel (free of charge) on the 7-day round trip, with an eye to securing their financial support. Need-less to say, those guest facilities were pretty plush. Check out the website SS William A. Irvin for more interesting information about the ship. Back at the campground, nearly everyone enjoyed an all you can eat fish fry supper at the Buffalo House Restaurant, bringing

Pride of Baltimore Approaching HarborNorwegian Ship Sorlandet Approaching Duluth


to an end another tiring, but very enjoy-able day at the Tall Ships Festival Rally.

Mother Nature sent us clouds, rain and winds that caused many plans for Saturday to be modified. There were a few hearty souls who ventured back to the festival area in Duluth to tour more ships and visit shops, but many of the rally attendees either remained in their rigs and rested up, drove into town to do some shopping or visited a nearby casino for lunch and some fun. Rain and a days high temperature of 56 degrees caused cancellation of a planned social hour and campfire, but no one seemed to mind that too much.

Following a continental breakfast and informal worship service on Sunday morning, the rally attendees boarded two very nice Prevost buses for a tour of Duluth. After stopping in downtown Duluth to pick up tour guides, the buses made their way around the city, with stops at Enger and Leif Erikson Parks before crossing the St. Louis River into Supe-rior, WI, to visit an accordion museum. As we traveled, our guides informed us of the history of the city, as well as explained the areas and buildings we passed. Enger City Park was atop the bluffs overlooking Duluth and Lake Superior. Although it was cloudy, it was not raining and the view looking down on the city and the lake was great. There was also a stone tower atop the hill in the park and many caravaners climbed the 82 steps to the top of the tower for an even more elevated view. The stop at Leif Erikson City Park provided a walk through a beautiful rose garden, with over 1,300 rose bushes and trees. The fragrance from the blossoms made the stop even more enjoyable. In addition to the beautiful flowers, we were also able to look out over Lake Superior. By that time the sun had come out and we saw two of the tall masted sailing ships out on the lake with paying passengers, as well as an empty iron ore carrier returning to port for another load. Our final stop for the day was at the Harrington Arts Center in Superior, WI, where a very ac-complished accordion and piano player (Helmi Strahl Harrington) explained the developmental progression of ac-cordions, while playing various models to demonstrate their sound qualities. Ms.

Harrington had established the museum nearly 25 years ago and had collected over 1,300 accordions in her ex-church museum. After arriving back at the campground about 4:00 PM, we barely had time to organize carpools to drive to the Spirit Mountain Chalet, where many caravaners rode the chairlift to the top of Spirit Mountain and back down. Follow-ing supper, an auction of donated items was held with the more than $1,300 in proceeds going to the Hands of Peace Project. Drawing the highest price and most spirited bidding was a beautiful matching quilt, pillow shams and table cover that fetched $300 to the fund. All in all, it was another great day and, to top it off, the blue skies had returned by the time we got back to the campground. Hallelujah!!!

Sunshine and cool weather greeted us on the final day of the Tall Ships Region 7 Rally. The first stop on this day of touring was at the Glensheen Mansion in Duluth. This 27,000 sq. ft., 3-story mansion was built by Chester and Clara Congdon in the early 1900s and donated to the University of Minnesota in 1968. The tour showed how wealthy people lived about 75-100 years ago. Congdon made his money in the buy-ing and selling of land containing low grade iron ore deposits, as well as other endeavors in Arizona and Washington states. Our tour guide informed us that nearly everything in the mansion was original, since the last surviving Con-gdon daughter willed everything to the university before she died. A beautiful formal garden was located between the structure and Lake Superior, providing a fantastic view of ships passing on the lake. After touring Glensheen, our buses took us about 45 miles northeast to Split Rock Lighthouse State Park. There we toured the last operational lighthouse on Lake Superior. We visited the light-house, one of the three residences and the maintenance shop. The lighthouse, although standing only 54 feet in height, was atop a 90-foot cliff, so its light was visible from 22 miles away. It was not only built of materials hoisted to the top of the cliff from barges, but was also supplied from the water for many years. It only functioned during the ship-ping season (April through November)

and was closed during the winter. The rallys final evening was highlighted by a catered dinner featuring prime rib and BBQd short ribs. A 4-piece combo provided music for listening and dancing and drawings were held for door prizes.

As the saying goes, All good things must come to an end. So it was for the Region 7 Tall Ships Rally as the attendees gathered for the last time on Tuesday morning, July 30, to enjoy an excellent breakfast served by the region officers. Amid the wishes for safe trips, there were numerous THANK YOUs to Linda Agre and her team for organiz-ing and hosting a GREAT rally! If you were there, you know what that means. If you were not there, you have no idea what you missed. Thank you, Linda and team. YOU DONE GREAT!!

Split Rock Lighthouse

Glensheen Mansion

Part of Rose Garden at Leif Erikson Park


Dr. Harold Kingdon, WBCCI #14383 International Chaplain

What would you do if life dealt you a hand like this? You are born into a well-to-do family and grow up as a

normal young person, completing your grade schooling and graduating from college. Following your heart and your love of the arts, you decide to become a poet. Life is good. Soon, the magic happens and you find the love of your life. You take the next logical step and propose. She accepts; now you are engaged to be married. But then, disaster strikes. The very night before the wedding, your fiance tragically dies in a drowning accident.

Determined to escape from the sad memories of heartbreak and grief, and leave them as far behind as possible, you decide to begin a new life in a totally new location. Abandoning your native country of Ireland, you cross the Atlantic and settle in Canada. It works. The future is bright. Romance blossoms as, once again, you find a young woman with whom to spend the rest of your life. However, just before the wedding is scheduled to take place, your bride-to-be suddenly contracts pneumonia and dies.

Then, to add insult to injury, you receive word that the only other important woman in your life is terribly ill, but you are totally helpless to be of any assistance because your mother is thousands of miles away, back home in Ireland. What to do?

That is the tragic, but true, life-story of one Joseph M. Scriven. And, here is how he played the hand he was dealt. He never married. Who could blame him? He served God wholeheartedly, by sharing his faith through preaching and by devoting himself to a life of service to others. He gave his

time, money, and even the clothes off his back, to help the less fortunate.

It was the year 1855 when he received the news from Ireland that his mother was desperately ill. His immediate response was to write a poem to comfort and encourage her. The poem he composed and sent to her was titled, Pray Without Ceasing.

This brief biographical account of the unfortunate circum-stances in the life of Joseph Scriven could end right here, and we would come away inspired by his courage, commitment, and determination. He did not become bitter; he did not turn his back on God; he did not squander his wealth in self-indulgence. Instead, he left us a role model worth emulating. However, the story does not end there, because Joseph Scriven left us with much, much more than that.

His poem, Pray Without Ceasing which he penned for his ailing mother, was subsequently published in a newspaper. A musician by the name of Charles C. Converse composed music to accompany the lyrics and re-named the finished work, What a Friend We Have in Jesus. It was not long until it was picked up by internationally known song leader musician Ira D. Sankey and included in one of his books of hymns.

Today, Joseph Scrivens hymn, What a Friend We Have in Jesus, can be found in virtually every hymnbook, and its words have become a source of comfort and hope for millions around the world, including many Airstreamers. Here are words, not only worth singing and remembering, but worth acting upon: Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere? We should never be discouraged: Take it to the Lord in prayer.

Plasticoating and Painting Drop Ship from Airstream

Electrical Work Factory Warranty Work

Plumbing Insurance Claim Specialists

Grey Tanks Previously Owned Airstreams

Metal Damage Free Overnight Parking While Your Airstream is Repaired

Carpet, Drapes, Upholstery

C & G TRAILER SERVICEAIRSTREAM CERTIFIED SERVICE CENTER

9241 Sonrisa StreetBellflower, CA 90706

(562) 634-6286TOLL FREE (800) 662-3790

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ONE STOP SERVICE CENTER

SINCE 1964

A i r D r a p e sSince 2003

Certified Designer & Drapery Specialist

Airstream and Argosy

Draperies Blinds Pillows Bedspreads

Visa/MasterCard/checkwww.airdrapes.com

610-905-0537


Cindy Reed, Corporate Manager

h qHeadQuarters Notes...Have you paid your 2014 dues?The deadline for payment of dues to your Unit is November 1st in order to be listed in the 2014 Membership Directory. If you have not received a dues renewal notice from your Unit, contact your Treasurer immediately. Members at Large must send payment to Headquarters.

...Courtesy ParkingDo you have Courtesy Parking? If so, please make sure the Courtesy Park-ing box is checked on your dues receipt in order to be listed in the 2014 Membership Directory.

...Email AddressEmail addresses on file at headquarters on December 1, 2013, will be pub-lished in the 2014 Membership Directory. Any member who does NOT wish their email address to be published must notify headquarters.

...Unit TreasurersPlease send new mem-

ber applications and dues to headquarters immediately upon receipt. This will enable headquarters to process their membership quickly.

...Unit 1st Vice PresidentsThe New Officer Reporting Forms are due at headquar-ters for inclusion in the 2014 Directory.

2014 Membership Directory Mailing

The 2014 Membership Directory will be sent by periodical mail, the same as the monthly Blue Berets. If you prefer the directory be sent first class, please fill out the coupon below and send the payment and coupon to headquarters by December 1st.

2014 Membership Directory

Name____________________________________________________________ WBCCI #_______________

Street_________________________________________________________________________________

City____________________________________________ St/Prov._______________Zip__________________ 1st Class Mail Service for the 2014 Membership Directory: $3.50 $__________

Mail coupon and check to: WBCCI Headquarters(must be received by December 1) P.O. Box 612 Jackson Center, OH 45334

Please welcome our newest Dealer Sponsor! Chilhowee RV Center

Alcoa, TN

Note their full page ad on page 9. When you are in their area, be sure to stop in and welcome them to the WBCCI family.


Oregon Unit WBCCI Airstream Club in 1859 Magazineby Rhonda Coleman

Early this spring I reached out to 1859 (the magazine named for the year Oregon became a state) and pitched the WBCCI Oregon Unit as the subject for an article.

In an intelligent and beautiful format, 1859 explores the landscapes, the personalities, the movers and shakers, the his-tory and the architecture that is the jewel of the Pacific Northwest, states their website. We were thrilled (I think, mostly) to learn that the Oregon Wally Club would be featured in the July/August 2013 issue.

For those of you who ended up on the cutting room floor, following is the complete story. (As a fellow 16-footer, I can relate to one of Bambi-owner Boomers priceless quotes: The closet has room for ten Hawaiian shirts and a sweatshirt.)

Airstream Style.......When you knock on someones

Airstream door and say Hey, can I look inside your trailer?, people not only open their door and say Sure, come on in, they say Were cooking breakfast, how do you like your eggs?

Thats Brad Taylor, Airstream owner and one of a group of friends - Oregonians of all ages and backgrounds - who might never have met without their common love of aluminum. Specifically, their aluminum Airstream trailers.

Trailer people just are friendly, Taylor said. Welcoming and inviting. Particularly in the Airstream club.

The friends are all members of the Oregon Wally Club, the Oregon Unit of the Wally Byam Caravan Club Interna-tional (WBCCI), the official association for owners of the worlds finest RV and named for Wally Byam, inventor of the Airstream, who introduced glamour to trailer travel nearly sixty years ago.

Members gallivant about the state, playing hard and glamping in their gleaming rolling homes, and attend theme weekend club rallies surrounding seafood, sandcastles and kayaking at the Coast, dark sky stargazing in Sum-mer Lake, watching old movies at the defunct drive-in theater in Sutherlin, and celebrating the fall colors (and Oregon wines) near Champoeg State Park. The annual Let er Buck Rally at the Pendle-ton Roundup is an Oregon Unit tradition that has attracted Airstreamers across the country and Canada for nearly fifty years.

In April, photographer Dave Bassett spent a sunny afternoon with the Oregon Unit and their silver streams at a rally in Harrisburg, where he discovered that the trailers cared for by club members are as varied as their owners.

The Oregon Airstreams range from squeeworthy, award winning vintage trailers to sleek high tech models fresh from the dealerships. All are welcome and the camaraderie is contagious. When new members come to an event, they soak up stories and knowledge from the others; super-secret tricks on how to fix this or protect that, said club president Mona Heath, an Airstream serial-owner.

She and her husband Doug own five - count em - five Airstreams. The flag-ship of their fleet, rescued several years ago from the Vernonia flood, is a 25-foot 1969 Tradewind that recently bagged the Peoples Choice award at Modernism Week in Palm Springs after an extensive two-plus year remodel.

The Mid Century Modern decor - an extension of the Heaths home aesthetic - includes a kidney shaped couch and long countertop bar for meals and enter-

taining. Weve had eight, ten people in there, said Heath. It works.

Outside, the Heath trailer proudly wears her Big Red Numbers, the designation affixed to the front and rear shells of the Airstreams owned by more than 12,000 members of the WBCCI. A practice adopted by Wally Byam himself during the early Airstream caravans of the 1950s, WBCCI members continue to use the numbers - cross referenced in the annual directory - to identify one another.

Ive never belonged to a club in my life, said Heath, but belonging to the WBCCI and having the big red numbers are synonymous to me with the heritage of the Airstream. I think you need to continue to show that.

So, why an Airstream? I always thought they were hip, explained one member. My husband said, I only want an Airstream, it cant be anything but

continued on page 18


an Airstream, said another. Its the cool factor, say Airstreamers across the nation.

Airstream is but a tiny, shiny star in the RV universe, and RV choice is an interesting phenomenon. Those whose primary desire is to camp or see America shop for something to do that with, and, for a variety of reasons, will likely choose a White Box trailer or an S.O.B. (some other brand in silver trailer-speak). Airstream owners want an Airstream. People love them, said Oregon WBCCI past president Teresa Taylor. Its not just a travel trailer for them to go camping somewhere. They want an Airstream. And now they can go camping.

After eighty years, more than sixty percent of all the Airstreams manufac-tured are still on the road, and the 2013 models roll out of the factory in Ohio every day. The binary decision becomes, vintage or new?

The vintage life is a different life, its not always as simple, said Heath, whose trailers date from 1958 to 2011. We learned a lot having a vintage first. I love having the shower, she said of her newer models, I love having plumbing, and I love the sinks and the storage. But even with the oldest vintage model youre certainly not sleeping on the ground. Thats a huge thing for me. Ive only camped in a tent once in my life. Heath is a self-identified glamper - glamour camper - and her 2011 Inter-national bears the license plate Glampr. Doug says it sucks the manhood out of him every time he pulls it, she laughed.

Brad and Susan Taylor work around the lack of indoor plumbing in their popular park model 19-foot 1953 Fly-ing Cloud. Its very primitive compared to newer Airstreams, said Brad Taylor. What makes owning a vintage wonder-ful is everyone sees you coming, and they come up and talk to you. The Taylors have appointed their trailer with period collectibles unearthed at the estate sales, old barns, and storage units that Taylor scours as part of his work as a horse trader - I buy and sell things. And I never retail shop, ever, he said. Outside, amid the pink flamingos, the Taylors display pink vintage parking meters (that once

lined the streets in Eugene), mid-century Schwinn bikes, and a rare pink Coleman cooler.

Every Airstream owner, even those towing the lat-est models, faces a common challenge: space management. Tom Griffin and Katy Hurley recently upgraded to a luxu-rious 27-foot 2012 Serenity International and replaced the shabby-chic cowgirl kitsch in their former trailer with colorful Southwest decor that suits their relaxed lifestyle.

Though the new trailer is actually larger than what we had, storage is always a challenge, said Hurley. I always take more than I should. There are lessons to be learned about thinking small, think-ing simple.

Mona Heath agrees. The living space is definitely a challenge, she said. What it makes you do is make choices of what you bring with you. I overloaded our first trailer, and then started editing. I learned to get things that collapse so they are space saving, and things that are multipurpose.

Living in an aluminum pod poses other problems. Doug sleeps next to the wall and when he snores it kind of bounces off the wall, Heath said. Its like this acoustical amplification. And Mellie, our hound dog snores! I cant just get up and sleep on the couch because its only two feet away.

The key to living in a Bambi is plas-tic tubs, said Greg Boomer Boam, a former surfer living fulltime in his 16-foot 2006 trailer surrounded by tie-dye, peace signs and lava lamps. The closet has room for ten Hawaiian shirts and a sweatshirt, he said of the tiny floorplan, the smallest offered by Airstream.

I look at it like I got an east wing and a west wing and I open the door and thats my living room, Boam said dur-ing breakfast in the large meeting room overlooking the river, where the Oregon Unit assembled during the spring rally at Riverbend Resort.

Look at us, Boam said, gesturing to the gathering. Its a buzz in here. And the community is so diverse. I mean you see people twice my age and

half my age. Its really opened up to the younger generation and the enthusiasm that group has brought really reflects in the Oregon club.

Everybody is so very outgoing, said Panamerica owner Steve Prokop. Its that brotherhood of Airstream. You flash your brights at each other and wave when you see another on the road, and you always talk to each other at the ral-lies and see if each other needs help. You dont see the other types of trailer people out visiting with each other.

When you go into a campground, you drive around and look for other Airstreams, agrees Brad Taylor. Ob-viously this club has given us a wealth of friends. Probably the best part of the WBCCI Oregon Unit is its a very socio-economically diverse group. We have people from all sorts of spectrums of society. The common thread is people like to get out and experience things.

This club has become family to me, said Mona Heath. Without having an Airstream, I would never have had an opportunity to meet all these people I cant imagine not knowing now. It has completely changed our life.

You have a whole different circle of friends, said Teresa Taylor, a former interior designer who owns an award-winning vintage model with her husband Glenn, a former city planner. You have your Airstream friends, and then you have your other friends. We seem to do more with our Airstream friends! We have so much in common, because they are looking for something more aesthetic, more artistic. Or like Glenn, they are people who are interested more in quality of workmanship and engineer-ing. People who are thinking outside the box. Literally, outside the White Box.

Airstream Style continued from page 17


OPEN HOUSE INVITATION October 20-22, 2013, enjoy 3 nights FREE parking, FREE Wi-Fi, four FREE meals, FREE tours of our available lots, metal villas, & full brick homes. Deep discounts on Park-owned lots during Open House. See what Texas casual living is all about at the newest, most modern, year-round Airstream Park, just off I-35 in historic Hillsboro, near Dallas-Ft. Worth, & Waco. Directions & more: www.ntaci.org

Reserve a full hookup Terraport site email: [email protected]

or call Pat at: 254-582-5566

New WBCCI Dutch Oven Site

(http://dutchoven.wbcci.net)

Weve noticed a growing number of our members talking about, shar-ing pictures, and exchanging recipes based on dutch oven cooking. Along with the non-Airstream world, the love and fascination of cast iron cooking has returned in full force. Your Electronic Communications Committee (ECC) thought itd be fun to launch a place to collect and share our favorite recipes and resources. Check out (and contribute!) member recipes at http://dutchoven.wbcci.net


Howard Lefkowitz, #6077 ChairmanChuck Helwig, #2868 Safety OfficerPhil Broomall, #2654Jim Cooper, #1967Jamie King, #804

This group, part of the WBCCI Technical Standing Committee, has been established to help the membership with any of their technical RV problems. Examples of questions that might be of interest to many members will be published in the Blue Beret. We will respond directly to you, in response to your email or letter describing a problem you are having. We hope you will find this new service of value in the care and feeding of your RV. You may contact us as follows: [email protected] or by mail: Howard Lefkowitz, 11508 Colt Terrace, Silver Spring, MD 20902

20998

Problem: When my 2001, 350 XL motorhome is in a campground for an extended period, I usually have to use my Aux switch to get the engine started. As I understand it, this combines the coach and engine batteries together for more starting power. I usually have shore power plugged in all of the time, which should be keeping all of my batteries charged. What is wrong?

Answer: The early gas motorhomes (both 350 and Land Yacht models) did not provide any charging capability for the engine battery. I believe this was for 2001 and earlier RVs. The early diesel units incorporated a special module, which provided the circuits necessary to charge both battery systems regardless of the power source. I believe in the 2002 models all of the Airstream motorhomes included a similar electronic module which provided this dual battery system charging capability. Your unit will also not provide a charge for the engine battery when the generator is running. The only, built in, available charge capability for this battery is the engine alternator. This is not a problem for your automobile, which can sometimes sit for months while you are on vacation and then start right up when you come home. In the motorhome, there can be high current draws from the engine battery when parked with the engine off. For example, the electric steps are hooked to the engine battery through a 25-amp circuit breaker. Therefore, if the steps are set to pull in every time you close the door you can run down the engine battery.

Your RV uses a 130-amp isolator to hook the alternator to both battery systems for charging. When you are using the 12-volt appliances, lights and other equipment, the engine battery must be isolated from the coach batteries. This is ac-complished, inside the isolator, by using two high capacity diodes from the alternator terminal to each battery system which prevents coach loads from discharging the engine start battery.

To test your charging system and confirm that this is the problem follow these steps:1. Hook up 110 VAC shore power2. Measure the DC voltage on both battery systems3. The battery is being charged if the voltage measurement is over 13 volts 4. The battery is not being charged if the voltage measurement is around 12.6 volts.

Figure (1) is a schematic of your 12-volt system. You can see the isolator in the lower right hand side. The 55-amp converter near the top center is the battery charger, which is only connected to the coach batteries. The converter (converts 110 VAC to 12 volts DC) and is powered by 110 VAC, which comes from either shore power or the generator. The connection from the coach batteries to the generator, on the far lower left, provides the power to start the generator and operate the circuit boards.

When you press the momentary Aux Start Switch, you are powering on the AUX Start Solenoid (to the left of the isola-tor) and effectively connecting both battery systems together. This gives you three batteries for starting the engine as long as you hold on the AUX start switch. If we held this momentary switch on, with the RV connected to shore power, we would be charging the engine battery as well as the coach batteries.

One possible solution to this problem is to obtain a second charger and hook it up to the engine battery whenever you are on shore power or are running the generator. A trickle charger is not very effective for a low engine battery, which has to supply hundreds of amps for a short time, so you will need at least a 10 or 15 amp charger. A much better solution is to


convert the charging system so that it will operate, just like the diesel and later model gas motorhomes, and automatically charge both battery systems regardless of how the RV is powered.

Figure (2) illustrates an Intellitec 53-00362-100 Bi-Directional Isolator Relay (BIRD) that provides a signal for a solenoid (isolator relay Intellitec 77-90000-110) that can hook the two battery systems together. The BIRD monitors both battery systems and if either one is higher than 13.1 volts, for more than 2.5 minutes, it sends a signal to the isolator relay which will stay on until the voltage drops below 12.6 volts. When this relay is on both battery systems are connected together and being charged by the 55 amp converter.

Reference (1) provides the following description of the BIRD operation.

Engine Alternator Charging the Batteries

When the ignition switch is turned on and the engine is running, the system senses the level of voltage on the chassis 12-volt system. When this voltage goes above 13.1 volts for approximately 2.5 minutes, as happens when the engine is run-ning normally (normal alternator output voltage of a cold engine is approximately 14.4 volts), it will close the isolator relay providing charging current to the coach battery. This delay allows a cold engine an opportunity to start and warm up before having the heavy load of a discharged coach battery placed on it.

If the voltage should fall below 12 volts for more than about 1 minute, the relay will drop out to feed all the alternators available output to the chassis (engine) battery to keep the engine running. This might happen when the alternator is not able to supply sufficient current to all of the loads and charge the coach battery at the same time. When the chassis voltage goes to 13.1 volts again, the relay will again close in about 2.5 minutes to retry to charge the chassis battery. The resultant flickering of lights would alert the driver of the system overload.

Converter Charging the Batteries

When the coach is plugged into shore power and the ignition is off, the unit senses the voltage on the coach batteries. When this voltage goes above 13.1 volts for approximately 2.5 minutes, as happens when the converter is not heavily loaded, it will close the isolator relay providing charging current to the engine battery. If the voltage should fall below 12.6 volts for more than about 1 minute, the relay will drop out to prevent the coach loads from discharging the chassis battery. This might happen when coach loads heavily load the converter. When the coach battery voltage goes above 13.1 volts again, the relay will again close in about 2.5 minutes to retry to charge the engine battery.

The isolator relay, Figure (3) is designed for continuous operation at 100 amps. It will handle a short-term load of 500 amps. While operating it draws less than one amp. This relay is used as a replacement for the AUX. Start Solenoid that came with your Airstream and does not have the capability of handling the duty cycle or current requirements. It will also serve as the AUX start relay to parallel all the battery systems and can be operated with the existing switch and wiring.

Figure (4) illustrates the typical installation diagram for the BIRD and isolator relay. The 350 XL and gas Land Yachts usually did not have a chassis battery disconnect relay although the Classic gas motorhomes did have both coach and chassis disconnect relays. The disconnect relays are retained with their existing wiring.

Figure (5) illustrates the new 12-volt wiring schematic with the dual battery charging system installed. This system will work with your Generator as well as shore power to keep both of your battery systems fully charged. It is completely automatic and will easily operate with your 55-amp converter. Another advantage is that in an emergency, if both of your battery systems get low, on an extended camping trip, you will have the generator output voltage as a back-up source to help run the engine.

Installation1. Before you do any work on the 12-volt system, you must disconnect the battery ground terminal wires on each battery.

Be sure to remove all of the wires and dress them back so they connect make contact with the terminals.2. Locate the 130A isolator and the AUX Start Solenoid. The isolator is usually mounted on the firewall under the

front hood. The start solenoid is usually located close to the battery compartment.3. On the 130A isolator disconnect the center terminal wire (alternator) and hook it to the engine battery terminal (on the

350 XL this wire is red). Verify that you have the correct battery terminal. You can leave the (black) coach battery wire hooked up since the 130A isolator is no longer functional.

4. Replace the AUX Start Solenoid with the new isolator relay. Wiring is the same with the large heavy-duty wires go-ing to the large terminal screws.

continued on page 24


5. Mount the BIRD on the firewall or near the new relay in a position protected from the weather. The wires do not have to be heavy duty since they are for the electronic voltage sensors in the BIRD. You are monitoring the coach battery voltage and the engine battery voltage (through the ignition switch). Be sure and provide a good ground for the BIRD and a wire to the isolator relay coil circuit.

6. Find a 12-volt source from the ignition circuit to connect to the BIRD Ignition terminal that will be used to monitor the engine battery voltage when you start the engine.

Check out your wiring and installation before reconnecting the battery ground wires. Both batteries should be charging and have the same voltage regardless of which power source you are using (engine, generator or shore power). Reference (1) has a Trouble Shooting section which can help in finding any problems.

I frequently get questions about whether an installed solar system is actually working. With the engine and generator off and no shore power simply measure the voltage across the coach batteries. If it is above 13 volts then the solar panels are charging the batteries. Always make sure there is no surface charge before making these measurements. Simply turn on a bunch of lights for a minute or two, turn them off and then make the measurement.

The Intellitec BIRD and isolator relay (solenoid) cost about $125 for both. Reference (2) lists several companies that sell both components. They may also be available on ebay.

Reference (1), Bi-directional Isolator Relay Delay Service Manual:http://www.docstoc.com/docs/98477976/BI-DIRECTIONAL-ISOLATOR-RELAY-DELAY

Reference (2), Sources for purchase of the BIRD and isolator relay:http://rvpowerpartsplus.net/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=6http://www.randkproducts.com/product_info.php?pName=intellitec-0000839000-bidirectional-isolator-relay-delay-dies http://www.mccampingsupplies.com/index.php?cPath=549_613_624&main_page=product_info&products_id=8232 http://www.rvparts.com/product-31-0000362100 http://www.ecovantageenergy.com/catalog/items/item3434.htm

Howard

Figure (1)

continued from page 23


Figure (2)

Figure (3)

Figure (4)

Figure (5)


Some of you are going to say I have written about this before and am rehash-ing old stuff. Some of you are going to say why write about short caravans when we dont have any. And I am going to say I will write about them until we get them then I will report on them. I have written some about short caravans before, and

Marion Pember, Chairman, WBCCI Caravan Promotions

is especially true for people who are still employed. I am concerned because Airstreamers want more short caravans. I am concerned because unit caravans are sometimes cancelled when not enough people sign up.

Caravanning is the heart of WBCCI and short caravans are a part of what

Sit around and do nothing.

Sign them up, line them up and go!

keeps that heart beating. The powers that be recognized short caravans need to be encouraged. That was part of what drove the change in number of rigs and number of nights necessary to qualify for a number. That was a valiant effort and I hope it pays results. Of course, you all know my feelings about that. If getting a number is the only reason for having a unit caravan something is missing. Just as a reminder, if your caravan has been approved, you are covered by insurance and are eligible for merit points.

Have you ever taken off with two or three other Airstreamers for some impromptu camping? I know a lot of people do that. You probably did at least some advance planning about when and where. Did you know if you bring it before your unit and get it approved, you have just set up a short unit caravan? You dont need seven rigs. And you get merit points.

What I want to get across is that al-though there is not much in the way of short national caravans there are many short caravans available nationally. Ev-

Lets Talk About Short Carvavans

have even written some up as articles for the Blue Beret. I also believe that out of sight is out of mind. How many of you can tell me what I have written before about short caravans? I am hoping to have a reminder about short caravans in each issue of the Blue Beret.

Sometimes it becomes an issue of defining a short caravan. Much of my task is to promote national caravans and quite frankly, we are in short supply of short national caravans. If my task is to promote national caravans and we dont have short ones, why am I concerned with promoting short caravans that dont ex-ist? I am concerned because more people have time to go on short caravans than have time to go on long caravans. This


Is your unit or region planning a short caravan?

Would you be willing to open it up for others outside your unit/region to attend?

We are constantly asked about the availability of short caravans. The WBCCI website even has a section with information on available short caravans. We will help publicize your short caravan, numbered or unnumbered. The only requirement is for it to be authorized by your unit/region.

Send information, including when, where, and a contact persons name with phone, and/or email address to Marion Pember, [email protected], phone 913-268-5938.

It will be posted on the WBCCI website.

- WANTED - SHORT CARAVANS

WOULD YOU LIKE TO SPEND LESS TIME FIGHTING TRAILER SWAY?Blue Ox has the solution. We call it the SwayPro . Youll call it peace of mind!

When youre out with your travel trailer, you should be focused on exploring new horizons and the beauty of the open road. Too often trailer sway can wreak havoc causing you to lose that focus. Blue Ox offers a weight distributing hitch with built-in sway control and revolutionary Signature Series rotating latches.

Now you can focus on the fun of the journey, and let us handle the hard work.

800-228-9289 www.blueox.com

ery unit or region caravan could be con-sidered a short caravan and considered available nationally. Certainly unit or region members would have first chance at signing up. I would venture a guess that most of these short caravans would have room for a few more. A few more might even fill the unit or region caravan out to a better size. Presently I think the most prevalent manner of attracting some more to sign up is to sit and wish for them. From what I hear that isnt too successful. What is needed is a way of publicizing what is available.

There is actually in place right now a method of publicizing your short unit or region caravan. I have written before about the web site wbcci.org. It is con-tinually being improved. Something over a year ago, a Short Caravans section was added. Last year I received input for several short caravans being offered. This year not so many were available. It is an educational process to get members tuned to checking out the web site. If you still havent looked at it closely, go there and check it out. It is fantastic the amount of information available.

It would be great if every caravan planner at unit or region level would send in information on their caravan once it is planned. Send it to me at [email protected] and I will get it on the site. Will you get dozens of people swarming

you to go on your short caravan? In all honesty probably not. I know some of the short caravans offered last year did pick up some from outside their unit or region. Someone will probably not go from New York to California for a short caravan. Too much travel for a short time. Someone from Montana might attend. What we would be doing is increasing the number of short caravans available nationally even if it is not a national

caravan. Does it make sense? I shouldnt ask that but I think it does or I wouldnt be writing about it.

Getting the short caravans listed is only half the task. The second half is educating our members to check wbcci.org for short caravans they might like to attend. Maybe someday it will happen. Progress is often slow. I also know if nothing is ventured nothing is gained.


By Tom SmithsonYoure invited

to the 54th Hobo Rally, sponsored by Region 12 (California & Ne-vada). This annual event will be held at the Colorado River Fairgrounds lo-cated in Blythe, California. This year is the last Hobo rally at this location; it is time for the Hobos to move on. Join us for the Memorial Rally for this location.

Quartzite, AZ, the largest flea mar-ket in the U.S., is only 20 miles east of the rally. Other area attractions are Joshua Tree National Monument, Salton Sea, London Bridge and Gen-eral Patton Museum. Within 100-200 miles are the Organ Pipe Cactus Na-tional Monument and Laughlin, NV.

Six days of rally events include seminars, photo contest, games, tours, food and entertainment. Other activi-ties include a Pet Show and Swap-N-Sell. Golf is also nearby. Bring your most fashionable hobo attire and parade your stuff. Guys grow a beard beginning January 1st and you might win the best beard contest. The high-lights of the rally occur on Saturday with the Hobo parade followed by the crowning of the 2014 Hobo King and Queen, and then the famous Hobo Stew will be served.

The Rally fee includes six nights of parking, 3 amp power, water, an arrival night dinner, 2 breakfasts, the famous Hobo Stew, and all the fun and fellowship you can handle. The weather is usually very pleasant, with temperatures in the 60s and 70s.

To register for this Memorial rally, use the coupon in this issue of the Blue Beret, go to www.region12.wbcci.net or contact the rally chairman, Tom Smithson at 916-802-0443 or email him at [email protected].

33rd Hobo Rally Hosted by Region 12

Blythe, California February 3 - 9, 2014

Florida State Rally- New Location -

Sunshine Key Resort,

South Florida (Route 1, Mile Marker 39)

April 2 - 7, 2014By Daniel Maciejczyk

Welcome to the resurrected and all new Florida State Rally. This year starts a new era for Floridas longest running Rally. Florida has always been the Riviera of America. This years location of the Florida State Rally will be held in the Florida Keys in South Florida and next year in St. Augustine in North Florida, representing the oldest cities of Floridas Riviera (alternating every other year from North & South Florida). We will be starting fresh and everything will be new.

The Florida State Rally attendees will enjoy the historic sites and old charm of Key West. A trolley tour will get you around the most southern city of Key West. Airstreaming seminars, flea market, dinner and entertainment await your return back to camp at mile marker 39. Sunshine Key Resort (an Encore park) has 360 views of tropical island life. There are amenities such as a swimming pool, tennis court, game room, fishing pier and a caf on the grounds. Boat slips at the marina await your fishing adventure, also kayaking and canoe tours are a great way to see what island birds and sea creatures inhabit the Florida Keys (charters and tours are available at extra cost).

The cost for this rally will be $260.00 based on 2 people per unit (one person $221.00, no extras). Included in the Rally Fee: 5 nights in the Florida Keys, parking with 5 point hook up (water, 50 amp electric, sewer, cable and Wi-Fi), use of trolley, seminars, a dinner and entertainment. We will be limited this year to 120 full service sites, so this will be first come, first serve. For those wishing to come early or wishing to stay later, an extra days fee at Sunshine Key Resort will be $30.00 per night. Also note that those traveling from a distance will get reduced parking at Land Yacht Harbor by showing their receipt. Land Yacht Harbor (Pass-port America Park) located in Melbourne, FL, has lowered the rate for attendees to $20.00 a night, naturally less for Passport America (reservations required).

The FSR will be held one year in the Keys - South Florida, and one year in St. Augustine - North Florida. This gives Airstreamers all the opportunity to explore and see the whole state of Florida by participating in the Florida State Rally.


Vintage Airstream Club

Bob Herman

Contributing EditorVINTAGE RALLY: National Texas Vintage Rally, October 3-7, 2013, Gonza-

les, TX, contact Fred or Judy Hazen, [email protected] or 512-261-0122

Bob Herman, 407-810-5579 or email: [email protected]

LET US GIVE YOURAIRSTREAM A FACE LIFT

DRAPES, FLOORING, UPHOLSTERYBEDSPREADS, BLINDS, CABINETS

DETAIL CLEANING

Since 1981

Fowler InteriorsPO Box 91

Symsonia, KY 42082(270) 851-3257

www.fowlerRVinteriors.com

Classic Airstream Club

Bettie Jones, President

Here we are off to another year of meeting friends along the way in our travels. While you are out there, be on the lookout for your new officers:

1st Vice President: Joel Ware #7727, sort of a Santa Claus looking fellow - beard included - very tech-savvy, eager to get going with club activities.

Recording Secretary: Vicki Buttleman #9691, seasoned caravaner and a volunteer for the secretarys job. Love those volunteers.

Treasurer: Myron Fischer #345, and a genuine SAINT in the treasurers job - untold hours dealing with dues past and present. His wife Kathryn deserves a STAR also. She and I spent a lot of registration table time together.

Webmaster and Newsletter: David McCall #5382, has taken on this challenge with enthusiasm and knowledge. Hell be looking for your article and a picture - should you feel inclined - telling of your travels and post it to the website or newsletter.

Ed Efira did the Website and Marie Efira did the newsletter for about 7 years - there was a lot of information disbursed -

and thank goodness we had that DYNAMIC DUO - MANY THANKS and a tip of the hat for their efforts.

Kay Corder has been a really right hand gal and I do appreciate all her help.

Lastly I should tell you that I will be your President - again for the 2013-2014 year. If there is something on your mind - wed like to know - contact us.


REGION 1 J. Rick Cipot, Contributing Editor http://region1.wbcci.netHappy Halloween and falling leaves to all Region One

members. What a great time of year to be up here in New England and the Canadian Provinces. The leaves are falling and the nights getting chilly as we get ready for our special fall holidays. I am happy to report that there has been a flurry of activity for the regions Special Event Rally, Columbus Day Canadian Thanksgiving out in Provincetown, MA. Another large crowd is expected and a special job well done to the hosts and all their helpers.

For the rest of us, some are heading south to meet up with their winter friends, some of us may be winterizing and then there are the hearty folks who just wont stop camping. There are a few campgrounds in the area that do stay open year round but if you are like Sandi and I, we like finding new places and doing different things. That usually brings us down south a bit to Pennsylvania or a little further to Delaware or the Carolinas. There is just something special about waking up in your Airstream some late fall morning and finding snow on the ground.

By now you have all had your fall business meetings and are aware of the issues we are having with our region rally. We really do need every member to pitch in and offer just a little help. What makes region rallies so much fun? Its all about the members. Working up front organizing, working in the background making sure the little details are not overlooked and just pitching in when needed. With so many options for the region rally, I feel that we need to gather the troops, save the date and come one, come all. Take a look at the schedule and take note of the dates and please do try to join your fel-low Airstreamers for four days of good food, good times and great folks.

Enjoy the rest of the season, join your fellow unit members at your annual holiday party and please keep safe.

REGION 2 Kathy Blake, Contributing Editor http://region2.wbcci.netIts hard to believe that I am writing this in August for the

October issue of the Blue Beret while caravanning around Lake Superior with the Ontario Canada Unit. We have run across quite a few members from other Units as well as a number of baldies. One of the special times ahead on this Caravan will be meeting up with the Wisconsin Unit during one of their Unit rallies. Caravans rock!!

Here and now in Northern Minnesota, it certainly feels like autumn and I am reminded that good fall camping is coming up soon. Truly, in most of Region 2, fall is the best time to be travelling and camping. No bugs, less competition for great sites, gorgeous colours, crisp mornings, and perfect campfire evenings!

The Canadian Thanksgiving holiday - the second Monday of October - will soon be upon us. At that time some of us will start to put our rigs to bed for the winter, while the rest of us start packing them for a winter in the south. But, dur-ing October, therell be a lot of WBCCI action throughout

our Region with end-of-season gatherings, including officer installation ceremonies. President Pat hopes that, in the next issue of the Blue Beret, hell be able to report that all 17 Units comprising Region 2 have a full slate of officers. For the mo-ment recruitment for vacancies continues, including for a 2nd Vice-President of Region 2.

Looking ahead to 2014 when two of our Units - Delmarva and Ontario - celebrate their 50th anniversaries, there is a whole lot of party-planning going on. Our whole Region is excited about these celebrations and look forward to hearing about these momentous occasions!

As a reminder to us all, we get a lot more out of something when we put in, and there are many ways to participate. Think about what you can offer and say, Ill do it!

REGION 3 Joan Anderson, Contributing Editor http://region3.wbcci.netDemographics of recreational vehicle sales have changed

over the last few years. Fifty-one percent of the folks purchas-ing new Airstreams are between 40 and 59 years old and 67 percent of the new RV owners are still employed with both spouses working. That makes caravans, long rallies and join-ing a camping club a real juggle of time for these younger working people.

Jay Thompson and Matt Hackney have exciting news about Region 3s answer to the problem of getting and sustaining new members. A new unit is being formed - the Southeastern Camping Unit. Region 3 has provided it with a provisional charter!

Jay says that this unit was organized to try to fill the wishes of many folks still working, those buying Airstreams for the first time and those who enjoy camping out in their Air-streams on an informal basis. This new WBCCI unit would hold rallies and other activities, primarily during weekends, in national, state and local parks in South Carolina, Georgia and Florida.

The Units founding members have already met the re-quirements in the WBCCI International Constitution of a minimum of ten members and provisional officers. Beth Hackney is serving as treasurer and membership chairman for the provisional unit.

Matt said that a group of fourteen members from different units in Region 3 decided to explore new venues - rallies will feature outdoor activities and planned potluck meals. He also said that communications will be primarily electronic and you can inquire about joining electronically, as well. One person new to WBCCI has already joined and several have requested information. Please contact Beth for more information at [email protected].

Congratulations to the new Southeastern Camping Unit and its members who are out-of-the box thinkers and the future of WBCCI!


REGION 4 Nancy Brett, Contributing Editor http://region4.wbcci.netGreetings from Region 4! As the 51st Swiss Festival National Rally winds down, it

is time to thank the Land-O-Lakes Unit, the Akron Unit and all the affiliates, who have worked so hard to make this rally a success. Thanks are also in order for Larry Kurkowski, who spearheaded the completion of the new shelter in July while Tom Losasso and Ron Swan made sure that supplies were on hand for the working crew. If you didnt attend this year, make sure you save the last week in September in 2014 - it is a fun filled week. The 52nd Swiss National Rally Chairmen will be Larry & Karin Kurkowski.

With a blink of an eye, another summer season has passed. Did you travel far and wide? Did you stay close to home? Will you head south for the winter? Or will you begin to plan for the 2014 season? Our Region President reminds us to support our Units by planning to attend the Unit Installation Luncheon or Rally. This is also the time for Past Presidents to fill out the Unit Merit Award Program Application. The form is online and can be filled out and saved.

Community Service Chairman, Janet Kendig, reports that in addition to collecting personal sized items for the womens abuse shelter, knit hats, scarves and gloves, yarn, gently used childrens books and stuffed animals, used eye glasses will also be collected for the Lions Club in Gillette, Wyoming.

Dates to Remember:January 5-11, 2014 - IBT Rally, Rayne, LouisianaMay 19-25, 2014 - Region 4 Rally, Allen County Fair-

grounds, Lima, OhioJune 28-July 4, 2014 International Rally/Convention,

Gillette, WyomingAugust 20-24, 2014 Michigan State Rally, St. Louis, MISafe travels see you down the road!

REGION 5 Patsy Marston, Contributing Editor http://region5.wbcci.netOctober in Region 5 means cool mornings, sunny days, and

glorious color in the trees. This is the perfect time of year for camping adventures in our Airstreams. The bugs are gone, and even a little rain and cool weather cant dampen our spirits. Region President Barry Bell and First Lady Karen want to thank all the members who volunteered hours of their time to help make our Region 5 Rally at General Butler State Park in Kentucky such a great success. It cant be done without lots of help from dedicated members. The Region Rally is over, but units have planned fun-filled outings to cap the season. Six of the seven Region 5 units have rallies or caravans planned for October. Unit caravans and rallies are really the heart of WBCCI. This is where life-long friendships are forged, and those memories are made that remain long after camping days are over. Please check out the scheduled activities listed elsewhere in this issue. Youll have a good time visiting at any one of this regions unit functions. Its fun to see what other units are doing at their rallies, and youll get great ideas for your home unit. Central Indiana and Southern Indiana Units are both planning caravans. Central Indianas will be the

Banks of the Wabash Caravan which will run from October 4 through October 13 and follow the Wabash from Lafayette to Vincennes. You can join it for part or all; just notify Ann Newman at 317-850-6402. Southern Indianas caravan will be to the Old Time Fiddlers Rally at Athens, AL. Notify John Hays at 270-877-6298. This caravan runs from September 30 through October 6. Its always good to remember that we are the Wally Byam CARAVAN Club. If you havent been on a unit caravan, youre missing a great time.

Congratulations to our new Region 1st Vice-President Monte Barksdale. Monte is the president of the Illinois Lincolnland Unit. He has accepted the task of guiding Region 5 following the term of President Barry Bell. Im sure he will have the sup-port and help of all our members. The best way to enjoy and get the full benefit from your membership is to get involved.

Volunteer, or if youre asked, accept. Our club only survives with the volunteer spirit.

Point to Ponder: Household (or Airstream) HintBest way to get rid of kitchen odors. Eat Out. ..................................................................Phyllis Diller

.....................................................................Phyllis Diller REGION 7 Linda Agre, Contributing Editor http://region7.wbcci.netThe following are highlights from the thoughts of a First

Timer who attended the International Rally in Huron, SD, and who are also brand-spanking new members. This was their very first rally.

I quote: Please accept this in the spirit intended, i.e., honest feedback to hard-working, committed leaders. We suffer from past experience, as consultants and volunteers to national organizations. The challenge we see is adapting to a younger owner base while respecting our WBCCI history and the needs/expectations of long-term members.

Here are some of their suggestions:Invite all members to participate in a Parade of Homes to

showcase their remodeling, decorating, restorations. Not just VAC rigs. Award prizes, ribbons. Make it a social, fun event.

Refreshments during the day. Friendship Center should have some of these to foster camaraderie, draw folks together, feed vendor displays.

Sponsor get-togethers among owner groups (similar to VAC). Bambi owners, B-van owners, Classics, to share info, solve common problems, and build friendships.

Reception/Mixer. Appetizers/beverages/meet and greet as opposed to chair-based entertainment. Great way to meet/mingle. How about new member/first timer mixer/ breakfast/coffee?

First timers ribbons. Everyone greeted us and made us feel very welcome. What a great reception from members.

Rally dates. Timing, aka 4th of July. The schedule was a near deal beaker for us. This is a traditional family holiday and we are unlikely to attend in the future due to this single fact. Most of our unit is leaving early to rejoin family at home. Please make it easier to attend in the future.

Wi-Fi is essential. Buyer demographics suggest many are still employed and just need connectivity to be able to lever-age their time.


Great ideas from new members. Do we need to change the International Rally dates? Maybe? This has been mentioned for years. Can we? Are we willing to change?

REGION 8 Leonard & Betty Sullivan, Contributing Editors, http://region8.wbcci.net

This October column is being written during the rainy season of August. Holy Moly, who would have thought that it could rain so much in portions of Region 8 in August - it certainly puts a damper on camping. We sure hope no one has had to live in their Airstream because of the flooding and no one has experienced a significant loss.

This is installation time and your Region Officers are enjoying their visits to your units and the installation of your new officers. The officers are there to assist you with issues so please take advantage of this opportunity. This is a good time for the Unit officers to use the Planning Guide for ideas for the next year. Also a good time for the current officers to review and record the past years accomplishments, such as member awards won at recent Region and International Rallies, caravans, joint rallies, special items published in the Blue Beret, and unusual activities worthy of additional points.

The Planning Guide has the total list and is easier done when the memories are fresh. This was a proud year as all units in 2012 received their Superior Merit Award ribbons at the Region 8 Rally in Hutchinson.

We are currently in Kirksville, MO, arranging details for the Region 8 Rally April 29-May 4, 2014. I have discovered for those who have a license and wish to fish for trout, they can do this within the city limits at Spur Pond stocked in Oc-tober for fishing the following spring. We are planning enough time for this activity along with many interesting tours in the area. For the arrowhead aficionado, we found The Wooden Nickel Restaurant has a wall dedicated to collections of ar-rowheads and tomahawk heads dating back a few thousand years. Just imagine trying to stop a mastodon with a six inch stone spearhead. This will not be on the tour list but on the eating out list!

We are delighted that the Region has added a number of new members. The Region Officers look forward to meeting you at the fall rallies. Do place a note on your calendar for the Region 8 Rally next April 29-May 4, 2014. We plan to see you all Streamin to Missouris North Star Kirksville, MO.

REGION 9 Andy Selking, 1st Vice President http://www.region9.wbcci.netAs I write this, I can tell it is autumn by the beautiful color

of the leaves on the trees in Texas and Oklahoma. The weather has cooled down and its a perfect time to get out and travel. There are many great places to go and see in an Airstream. I am also reminded that it is football season. We will be taking our Airstream to the OU home football games again this year as we have done in the past. Tailgating in an Airstream is lots of fun. Many people come by just to see an Airstream and

look inside. They always ask, Do they still make these and what year is yours? Our answer always is, Yes, they still make them and ours is almost new. It is an opportunity to tell others about the great WBCCI club we belong to and the fun that we have caravanning and going to club gatherings.

Unit installations have started and will continue through December. Thanks to all who have stepped up to fill a Unit position. We could not do it without you! Barb and I love visiting with all the various units and look forward to being at several installations.

We have two Airstream Parks in Region 9, TAHI in Zavalla, TX, and NTAC in Hillsboro, TX. We would love for you to visit both of them. You have a great opportunity to visit North Texas Airstream Community in late October during their Open House. See the following information about this event.

Cmon Down, Yall! Welcome! Bring your Airstream to our Second Annual Open

House Celebration at the North Texas Airstream Community, October 20-22, 2013.

Enjoy three nights FREE parking, FREE Wi-Fi, four FREE meals, FREE guided tours of our available lots, metal villas, and full brick homes. Prices deeply discounted on park-owned lots during Open House.

Come see what Texas casual living is all about at the most modern, open-all-year Airstream Park, easily reached just off I-35 in historic Hillsboro, the county seat of Hill County, near Dallas-Ft. Worth, & Waco. See directions & more at: www.ntaci.org

For reservations in our modern 24 site terraport, email: [email protected] or call Office Manager Pat at 254-582-5566.

See you down the road!

REGION 10 Mona Heath, Contributing Editor http://region10.wbcci.org

To encourage clubs and rallies that provide an endless source of friendships, travel fun and personal expressions.

excerpt from Wallys Creed

As the newly-installed Unit leadership teams settled into their roles, plenty of focus will be on the development of a robust, creative and fun list of rallies for 2014. Plenty of work has already gone into planning the Region 10 rally on the Oregon Coast from July 1620. From sandcastles to shipwrecks, saltwater taffy and fresh seafood, theres plenty to explore. Plan on packing your bikes, kayaks, hiking shoes and cameras and mark these dates on your calendars - we look forward to seeing you there.

Safe travels


REGION 11 L. Lawson, Contributing Editor http://region11.wbcci.net

October iswhen night guzzles up

the orange sherbet sunsetand sends the day

to bedbefore supper . . .

~ Bobbi Katz

Arizona Unit Caravan to International Balloon Fiesta Albuquerque, NM, September 29 - October 3

Leaders: Pat & Babs Cahalan [email protected]

4CU, Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Rally,Albuquerque, NM, October 4 - 8

Previous registration required.Contact Host: Ken Johansen, [email protected]

Region 11 Rally, Camp Verde, AZ, October 10 - 13Held at the Distant Drums RV Resort www.distantdrums-

rvresort.com, right off of I-17.The Arizona Unit annual meeting to be held at this rally!Contact Hosts: Roger Pruter & Barbara Vaughn, 719-475-

8899 or 719-332-9051, [email protected]

New Mexico Unit, Thanksgiving Warm-Up RallyCaballo Lake SP, NM, October 24 - 27

NM Unit Annual Meeting & Installation to be held at this rally!

Contact Hosts: Bob & Anne Werth, 505-331-7226, [email protected]

If you are hosting an upcoming Airstream rally or event in Region 11 that you would like to promote in this section of the Blue Beret, please send details to [email protected] 55 days before the first of that months issue!

REGION 12 Kia Kelley-Johnson, Contributing Editor http://region12.wbcci.netBy the time you read this, our Region Rally Silver Among

the Vines will be a sweet memory of fall colors reflected on aluminum. Everyone did their best to make this an enjoyable rally for you to attend. Im a big believer in feedback loops that can provide useful information on what works and what didnt work. Send your comments to Region President Bob Stansbury [[email protected]]. We want to make the next rally even better. Tell him what was great; good, bad and ugly and lets make the next Region Rally one great affair. Of course, any profuse and flowery accolades are gladly accepted.

Everyone in our Region is a tremendous source of skills and talents - please consider helping out at the 2014 Rally.

Plan to attend these events in 2014 - all information is on the Region 12s website:

125th Rose Parade is on December 28, 2013 to January 1, 2014. This years theme is Dreams Come True.

33rd National Hobo Rally February 3-9, 2014. There will be lots of events and activities to experience.

Region 12 Rally October 14-20, 2014. Checkout the website for a list of what the area has to offer. Bet there is something for everyone.

I want to add my flowery gratitude to the rally workers - Job well done!

Fourth of July Parade at Huron, SDEuna Ridenour #4064

Mardi Gras is one of the best times of the year in Loui-siana, but it never fails that the Greater New Orleans Unit has a wonderful time at the International Rally when they do their sashaying into the parade each 4th of July!! This year was no exception. We handed out many beads, boas, masks and small umbrellas. There were two adorable grand-daughters at the parade this year. Hugh Ridenour gave Alicia Ruef, the granddaughter of Cecil Hoosier, a beautiful foil umbrella. She enjoyed twirling it as much as the rest of the group! Lonnie Carver then gave Alicias friend at the International Rally, Jordyn Nuss, the granddaughter of Tom Richardson, an umbrella so she could join in on the fun too, and they continued to enjoy the parade, even af-ter it was over, with their boas, beads and umbrellas. We hope to see them back next year to get in on the fun!!


Dave Schumann, General Manager Customer Relations Group

October is here and if you are living in the northern parts of the country you are probably squeezing in a few more trips before the cold weather sets in, enjoy. With the colder weather, you start thinking about storing your Airstream for the winter and with that comes questions to Customer Support.

Here are some questions and reminders for winter storage.

Should I remove my batteries from my Airstream for the winter?Batteries will last longer if kept charged, and having the battery stored in a garage or workshop makes monitoring and

charging the battery/batteries easier. Removing the battery also gives you the opportunity to have your battery tested (load tested at battery supplier) and inspected for any damage to the battery case (leaking fluid or bulging sides).You will also want to check fluid levels and fill as necessary with distilled water so top of plates are covered.

It is also a good time to inspect battery terminals and cable ends for corrosion. Clean them with a wire brush and apply a protective coating to battery posts and cable ends.

You can leave the batteries in your Airstream when storing if you keep them charged; this will require plugging unit in or hooking up to a charger at least monthly. Batteries should be fully charged when placed in storage and maintained to keep batteries from freezing.

Airstream does not recommend leaving unit plugged in when in storage.

Some quick winter storage remindersShut off the propane at the tank/tanks. Make sure that your tires are properly inflated, clean and covered to protect from UV rays. Sun and air pollutants can also

cause deterioration of the rubber compound, causing dry-rot in your tires.Apply dielectric grease to 7 way cord connections to prevent corrosion while in storage.Remove any water filters before winterizing and install filter plug or by-pass line. You will not be able to remove all of

the water from the filter when using air to winterize and you do not want them full of RV antifreeze if you are using it to fill and protect water lines.

If your water heater is gas and electric, make sure the electric heating element is turned off. This will protect the element if the unit is plugged in while being stored or before water is put back into system next spring.

Leave the fridge and freezer doors open. To help dry out the refrigerator and freezer compartments prior to storage, crumple up newspaper and put in freezer and lower refrigerator compartment for 24 to 48 hours to absorb moisture and then remove papers.

Remove all food items, paper and cardboard from closets and cabinets. We dont want to encourage winter guests (rodents).Leave cabinet, closet and cabinet doors open when storing for better circulation and humidity control.Wash your Airstream before storing, especially the roof. Washing the roof will let you inspect for any water leaks, loose

or cracked sealants or any damage to AC covers or vents. If you see anything damaged or looks questionable, get it corrected before putting in storage.

Lubricate all joints, pivot points and gears on your steps and stabilizer jacks.

Flo-Jet macerator Model series 18550-300CWinterization of the Flo-Jet macerator pump and flexible drain hose used in our Airstream NCV3 Interstate van.Winterization: It will take an approximate 2 gallons of RV antifreeze for the winterization of your plumbing drain lines,

your macerator and the flexible discharge line.Step one: Pour 1 gallon of antifreeze into the sinks in bath and galley of your Interstate. This will provide protection for

any water left in drain lines as well as the dump valve.Step two: Pour 1 gallon of antifreeze into the black tank through the toilet bowl.


If you have a topic for this column, please send your suggestions to: Dave Schumann, Airstream, Inc., 419 W. Pike Street,

Jackson Center, OH 45334

If your topic is published, you will receive a Schus News t-shirt!

Step three: Pull the flexible dump hose out and open the valve to allow the antifreeze to come out when pump is activated.Step four: Open the black dump valve, then turn on the macerator pump and let run until you have a flow of antifreeze

coming out the drain hose. Turn off macerator pump, then close the black tank drain valve and the valve at end of the flex-ible drain hose.

Step five: Open grey tank dump valve to verify you have antifreeze in the valve then close again.By using the two gallons of antifreeze, you are assuring that the drain lines and valves have been protected.

Reminder: do you have your membership number handy?Coach-Net Membership Plan

Airstream offers free 24/7 assistance on all 2012 and newer model year trailers provided by Coach-Net Membership Plans. This two-year service covers both your Airstream van or travel trailer and tow vehicle that is attached to the trailer. Not only does this service provide emergency roadside service should you have a breakdown, but Coach-Net Membership Plans also provide technical service for your Airstream after hours should you have any questions.

Contact Coach-Net at www.nmca.com or 855-879-4091.

RV lifestyle remains as strong as everResearch, conducted by Dr. Richard Curtin, RV industry analyst and director of consumer surveys at the University of

Michigan, reveals the number of RV-owning households has grown to a new peak of 8.9 million households, up from 7.9 million in 2005. According to the report, 8.5% of U.S. households now own RVs, up from 8.0% in 2005.

At the pearly gates, St. Peter greeted a minister and congressman and gave them their room assignments. Pastor, here are the keys to one of our nicest efficiency units. And for you, Mr. Congressman, the keys to our finest penthouse suite. This is unfair! cried the minister. Listen, St. Peter said, ministers are a dime a dozen up here, but this is the first con-gressman weve ever seen.

Have a great month and we will see you on down the road!

Schus News


New Styles and Colors Now Available at www.airstream.com andparticipating dealers.

Short SleeveHappy Airstream CamperPacific Blue

Men

Long SleeveHoliday Airstream Avocado Green

Short SleeveAirstream Wander SUV Heather Gray

Women

Short SleeveHoliday AirstreamCherry Red

Short SleeveHappy Ai

blue beret october 2013

Documents

blue beret usps

blue beret octobe

blue beretwbcci

john sandy stumpf blue

florida keys

presidents cornerblue

new florida state rally

international rally