Through friends we learned about the Alpine Coach Southern California chapter and we attended a rally in Temecula, CA. The long weekend involved planned activities, gatherings, and games. It was informative and fun. We enjoyed ourselves so much, we became members of the Association Chapter on Day 2 of the Rally, even though there was absolutely no pressure to join!
I often hear from other RVers about issues, fixes or challenges they can’t figure out. Motor homes are complex, and the newer ones even more so! You can search for solutions online, turn to discussion boards, FMCA Magazine archives, or call the guys at your favorite RV service center. Or, turn to members of your own local motor home association as they are an excellent resource for sharing ideas and solutions – particularly given that they share the same type of coach.
One night at the rally a bunch of us threw open our doors and invited others in to see enhancements and upgrades made to our coaches. One couple redecorated their RV interior in a striking western décor with custom artwork, cow-hide leather-backed seats and Indian-themed accessories. Others extended cabinet draws so the drawers went deeper into the cabinet base, thus offering more storage. Those who toured my RV appreciated a simple and practical tip: I use white wire shelf extenders in kitchen cabinets, which essentially turn one shelf into two. In order to keep stuff secure on the second shelf while traveling I clip a few clothespins to the wire rack up against the items and it works to effectively secure everything in place.
One rally session featured Keith Shomaker, co-owner of Redlands Truck & RV. He discussed what was new in the market, like Smartbox Braking Control Vacuum-Assisted Braking system, installed under the hood of the towed vehicle, it uses air pressure from the coach to create vacuum for the towed vehicle’s brakes, so the unit has no moving parts. The session went way overtime as attendees relished the sharing of information and availability of Keith’s knowledge and expertise.
We enjoyed a girls-only Mar-TEA-Ne hour involving a sharing discussion, and true to Las Vegas-style, I have no further comment! We went off-roading with others up Palomar Mountain to the State Park’s Historic Boucher Hill Fire Tower lookout, and we shared plenty of good food, drink, tales and laughs. New friendships made. Wisdom gained.
Consider an association membership of your own. Start with Family Motor Coach Association (FMCA), which offers many worthwhile benefits. From there you’re sure to find an RV association that meets your needs.
For me, the experience made me fall in love with my Alpine Coach all over again… and I really love my new, deeper kitchen drawers!
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