MEET OUR PRESIDENT -PG 16 - Wally ...
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
AUGUST 2019 MEET OUR PRESIDENT — PG 16
®
RMS PAYS
IM FO NO CO
UCTIBL
ES NO CLA
D
NO DE
30minutes
could save you $30,000
We have presentations scheduled daily.
Please call for a time convenient for you or
we’ll set up an online/telephone presentation, exclusively, just for you.
ULTIMATE TRAVELING PEACE-OF-MIND
FOR WBCCI MEMBERS
18 SkyMed Services including world wide services
Monthly Plans 5 Year Plans
For Families For Families
Starting At Starting At
$49 $2,495
Call one of our Certified SkyMed Ambassadors and Airstream owners
Bill Johnjulio (216) 533-1752 | Jim Moss (877) 667-4968 | Stan Schwenke (920) 918-9923
John Tetzlaff (612) 839-4013 | Jerry & Marilyn Collins (208)-867-8739 | Karen & Jack Cotton (760)-895-7019
www.SkyMed.com | 1-800-679-2020
President’s
Corner
We join this the Airstream Club International for a myriad of In the coming year I look forward to seeing my continuously growing
reasons: fond memories of family vacations in an Airstream; Airstream family continue to do what we do best - envelop new
admiration for an iconic symbol of global travel or, in my case, a members with kindness, support and surround them with the
ghosted big red number! Little did I know that when I bought possibilities of the only club that can proudly say:
that first Airstream and joined the Club 11 years ago, I would gain
such a large extended family!! We are members of
If someone were to ask me the single most important thing I THE ORIGINAL
would like to accomplish, it would be to Encourage an Inclusive Airstream-exclusive, independent RV travel club
Environment at all levels, where club practices & policies serve to FOR
unite members, where all members are treated with respect, all Adventure-minded Airstream owners
views valued and all voices heard. WHO
Wander the world
Our Club, this family, is full of much diversity: of thought; of TO
lifestyle; of heritage and of tow vehicle, Airstream model & length learn from and enjoy life with a community of like-minded people
and camping choices. All are welcome in my world, this world of IN A TIME
happy campers. Of self-discovery and exploration.
I have a deep respect for our heritage, our founding and long-time
members and the possibility of “what if” for the future. These are
a few of so many who have shaped my experience in this beloved
Club:
Dusty & JoAnn, Jerry & Susan, Brad & Susan, Art & Tookie, Tom
& Ethelwyne, Pearl and Dean, PeeWee, the Grisso’s and John &
Bard Fuller - you brought the Club and its rich heritage to life for
me.
It’s an honor to serve as your International President and I will
The Schofield and Goranson families, thank you for carrying it continue to love every minute of this experience.
forward for future generations.
Mona
BLUE BERET is the official publication of the Wally Byam Caravan BLUE BERET (USPS 669-270; ISSN 0744-5601) is published monthly Address corrections, suggestions, stories, art, photos, advertising
Club International, Inc. (WBCCI), Airstream Club International. BLUE except December and July. Periodical mail postage paid at Jackson and paid mail subscriptions ($45/year, included in members’ dues)
BERET welcomes contributions of articles, photographs, news items Center, OH and additional mailing offices. Canada Publications Mail may be mailed to: BLUE BERET/WBCCI, P.O. Box 612, 803 E. Pike
and advertising. However, their publication in the BLUE BERET does Agreement #41295545. Canada Post Returns: 7289 Torbram Road, Street, Jackson Center, OH 45334, Phone 937-596-5211, Fax
not constitute endorsement. The opinions of the authors are their Mississauga, ON L4T 1G8. 937-596-5542, email: dsailor@airstreamclub.org
own and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of either the BLUE Notification of address change is the responsibility of the member or POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: BLUE BERET/WBCCI, P.O.
BERET or WBCCI. The products and claims of advertisers are their recipient and should be received at least two months in advance to avoid Box 612, 803 E. Pike Street, Jackson Center, OH 45334.
own and, too, do not necessarily represent endorsement by either delays in forwarding. Re-mailing of back issues is at recipient expense.
BLUE BERET or WBCCI.
BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019 3
Wally Byam
Caravan Club What’s Inside...
International, Inc.
Vol. 55 August 2019 Issue No. 7
803 E. Pike Street, PO Box 612
Jackson Center, OH 45334-0612 President’s Corner....................................................3
Phone 937-596-5211
FAX 937-596-5542
www.wbcci.org
Club News................................................................6
Welcome New Members.................................................................................................. 6
The Art of Airstream Cooking......................................................................................... 10
INTERNATIONAL
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE WBAC Newsletters - Start Spreadin' the News................................................................ 12
A Presidential Gift to the Queen..................................................................................... 14
President.........................................................Mona Heath
Alabama Airstream Club helps welcome new Airstream Dealer to North Alabama.............. 18
1st Vice President.......................................... Andy Selking
First Club Caravan to Mexico in over 20 Years................................................................. 20
2nd Vice President................................................ Tye Mott
3rd Vice President.........................................Eric McHenry
Our European Road Trip - Part 2.................................................................................... 24
Recording Secretary.................................. Vickie Courtney
Historically Speaking..................................................................................................... 28
Treasurer.............................................................. Jim Polk Airstream Tech Help Group............................................................................................ 32
Past President.................................................... Barry Bell Texas Country Air Rally in Brownwood, Texas.................................................................. 36
In Memoriam............................................................................................................... 49
REGION PRESIDENTS
Rhode Island to the West Coast...................................................................................... 65
Region 1......................................................Per Hamnqvist
Region 2............................................................ Rich Short International Rally...................................................38
Region 3.......................................................... John Leake
Region 4.........................................................Karen Fisher Caravans................................................................41
Region 5....................................................... Bob Whitesell Cajun Country Caravan.................................................................................................. 41
Region 6.........................................................Jim Johnson
Region 7....................................................... Don Thomson National/Special Event (NSE) Rallies........................42
Region 8............................................................. Mike Sisk Storytelling................................................................................................................... 42
Region 9............................................................. Bill Kindle Columbus Day & Canadian Thanksgiving Day.................................................................. 43
Region 10...................................................Sharon Cairnes
Texas Country Air.......................................................................................................... 43
Region 11...........................................................Patti Reed
Region 12...............................................Cecelia Stansbury Region News..........................................................44
Parliamentarian............................................ Joanne Miller
HQ TEAM
Airstream • 937-596-6111.....................................50
From the Vice President................................................................................................. 50
Corporate Manager and MARCHing On............................................................................................................... 51
Blue Beret Managing Editor...........................Lori Plummer
lplummer@airstreamclub.org Event Schedule.......................................................53
Blue Beret Editor............................................... Deb Sailor
blueberet@airstreamclub.org Classifieds..............................................................59
Adventure Coordinator.................................Barb Langston
adventures@airstreamclub.org Coupons.................................................................60
Membership Coordinator ............................ Julie Rethman
membership@airstreamclub.org
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
Region 1......................................................... J. Rick Cipot
Region 2.......................................................... Kathy Blake
Region 3..................................................... Joan Anderson
Region 4........................................................Cindy Conant
Region 5....................................................... Bob Whitesell
Region 6..........................................................Mark Magie
Region 7....................................................... Don Thomson
Region 8............................................................. Mike Sisk
Region 9....................................................... Joanne Miller on the cover...
Region 10.......................................................... Carol Ortiz Mona Heath, 2019-2020 International President
Region 11..................................................... Robert Doster Meet Our President - page 16
Region 12................................................Robert Stansbury
Europe...........................................................Ian Jamieson
“AIRSTREAM” is a registered trademark used under license.
Copy Deadline for the October issue is August 15
4 BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019
America’s Most Experienced Airstream Dealer
Family Owned and Operated Since 1965
“Building Dreams is our Business”
Bill Thomas Camper Sales
101 Thomas RV Way
Wentzville Mo 63385
636-327-5900 1-800-367-5767
www.btcamper.com
BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019 5
CLUB
NEWS
Unit # 000 Unit # 000 Unit # 005 Unit # 011
WBCCI # 03085 WBCCI # 10894 WBCCI # 03335 WBCCI # 03220
Michael & Suzanne Caparrotta Rick & Gina Seyfried Brittany & Dayton Grundy Monte & Ros Roberts
VA MD AR CA
Unit # 000 Unit # 000 Unit # 005 Unit # 011
WBCCI # 03096 WBCCI # 03449 WBCCI # 03462 WBCCI # 25423
Dan & Debra Birch Chase & Chelsea Eckert Paul & Deborah Norris Ali & Cindy Ganjtomari
FL AK AR CA
Unit # 000 Unit # 000 Unit # 006 Unit # 011
WBCCI # 10165 WBCCI # 03507 WBCCI # 03173 WBCCI # 15751
Dennis Puckett Christopher & Jennifer German Karen & Daniel Tresenrider Joshua & Nadine Holbrook
OH NC OH CA
Unit # 000 Unit # 000 Unit # 006 Unit # 012
WBCCI # 03195 WBCCI # 09928 WBCCI # 03177 WBCCI # 03627
Dan Volpenhein David Horne Uwe & Kari Eickert Ron & Eva Bernstein
OH TX OH FL
Unit # 000 Unit # 000 Unit # 006 Unit # 013
WBCCI # 24692 WBCCI # 04117 WBCCI # 04405 WBCCI # 03408
Claudia Uhe & Klaus Wessel Ron & Brenda Speidel Thomas & Judi Moran Kevin Ford & Kate Taylor
Hesse Germany TX OH CA
Unit # 000 Unit # 001 Unit # 008 Unit # 013
WBCCI # 12916 WBCCI # 03301 WBCCI # 31540 WBCCI # 25688
Melanie Whalen Koren Lee Dennis & Cynthia Larson Kathryn & Arnold Rudnick
AK AL CA CA
Unit # 000 Unit # 002 Unit # 009 Unit # 015
WBCCI # 03278 WBCCI # 15535 WBCCI # 03104 WBCCI # 03237
William & Julie Graham Valerie & Jeff Davis Belinda & Terry Holamon Steven & Karen Howes
PA NY TX CA
Unit # 000 Unit # 003 Unit # 009 Unit # 015
WBCCI # 21121 WBCCI # 05977 WBCCI # 03359 WBCCI # 03356
Cheryl Vahl Ed & Kimberley Hash Max Aldredge & JoAnn Soeder GiGi & Stephen Austin
IA AZ FL CA
Unit # 000 Unit # 003 Unit # 009 Unit # 015
WBCCI # 01096 WBCCI # 03306 WBCCI # 27960 WBCCI # 03419
Dave Driscoll Cal & Vickie Harris David & Lorrie Galliher Carol Martin
IN AZ TX CA
Unit # 000 Unit # 003 Unit # 011 Unit # 015
WBCCI # 02274 WBCCI # 03748 WBCCI # 28246 WBCCI # 22114
Fred & Cheryl Kuhn Mary Stewart & Charles Rubano Kristine Carey Kevin & Veronica Smithey
CA AZ CA CA
Unit # 000 Unit # 004 Unit # 011 Unit # 018
WBCCI # 03385 WBCCI # 25319 WBCCI # 15775 WBCCI # 03111
James Thompson & Jeff Pocock Dan & Kathy Fahey Kevin & Debra Littrell Keith & Ephraim Howard
CO AZ CA CA
Unit # 000 Unit # 004 Unit # 011 Unit # 018
WBCCI # 17340 WBCCI # 07005 WBCCI # 12000 WBCCI # 22718
Rebecca Vota Sharon & Luis Ortiz Jonathan & Amanda Mitchell John Stave & Claudia Sutton
IL NM CA CA
6 BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019
CLUB
NEWS
Unit # 018 Unit # 024 Unit # 032 Unit # 041
WBCCI # 03400 WBCCI # 08980 WBCCI # 16843 WBCCI # 03552
Peter & Linda Lord Peter & Rosanne Dunbar Mike & Angela Bush Phillip & Judy Dart
CA CO GA IN
Unit # 018 Unit # 024 Unit # 035 Unit # 046
WBCCI # 03577 WBCCI # 03354 WBCCI # 04930 WBCCI # 03202
Todd Wynne-Parry & DeeDee Taft Randy & Diana Mason James Slover Scott & Diane Ryan
CA CO ID IA
Unit # 019 Unit # 024 Unit # 035 Unit # 049
WBCCI # 03226 WBCCI # 07562 WBCCI # 03176 WBCCI # 11200
Don & Cindy Grabow Frank Nekvasil Robert & Tonya George Ralph & Dana Pettit
CA CO ID KY
Unit # 020 Unit # 025 Unit # 035 Unit # 050
WBCCI # 03086 WBCCI # 21350 WBCCI # 29470 WBCCI # 03276
Richard Evans & Patricia Roether Mike & Kathy Chapman Donna Bortfeld Eva & Arthur Hoover
CA CT ID LA
Unit # 020 Unit # 027 Unit # 035 Unit # 050
WBCCI # 05958 WBCCI # 03216 WBCCI # 03393 WBCCI # 03295
Edward & Velia Grimaldo Joe & Brenna Loretta Jon & Karen Enderson Karl & Becky Hollibaugh
CA FL ID LA
Unit # 020 Unit # 027 Unit # 035 Unit # 052
WBCCI # 03537 WBCCI # 03566 WBCCI # 03460 WBCCI # 03869
Gwen Weise Melaine Taylor & Kris Harris David & Becky Levi Amy Gardner
CA FL ID MI
Unit # 021 Unit # 030 Unit # 035 Unit # 052
WBCCI # 10825 WBCCI # 07821 WBCCI # 03508 WBCCI # 26701
Joe Yochem Bill & Kathy Hickok Randy & Marianne Hickel Hal & Dottie Canfield
NC FL ID MI
Unit # 021 Unit # 032 Unit # 038 Unit # 052
WBCCI # 03307 WBCCI # 03087 WBCCI # 03245 WBCCI # 18894
Mark & Betsy Schneider David & Lynn Kelley Seung & Young Park Jo & Michael Street
NC GA IL MI
Unit # 022 Unit # 032 Unit # 038 Unit # 053
WBCCI # 23420 WBCCI # 17874 WBCCI # 03396 WBCCI # 03248
John & Susan Parris Matthew & Susan DeBacker Tom & Debbie Moquin Daniel & Diane Skelley
SC GA IL MD
Unit # 024 Unit # 032 Unit # 038 Unit # 055
WBCCI # 07997 WBCCI # 03438 WBCCI # 27662 WBCCI # 07123
Tom & Rebekah Nguyen Ralf & Daniela Reisinger Erin & Nick Evans Rebecca Gallup
CO FL IL MN
Unit # 024 Unit # 032 Unit # 038 Unit # 056
WBCCI # 31250 WBCCI # 14047 WBCCI # 14412 WBCCI # 14661
Laura & Timothy Uselton Ralph & Lisa Johnston Elizabeth & John Felageller Kenny & Emily Allen
CO GA IL MS
Unit # 024 Unit # 032 Unit # 041 Unit # 056
WBCCI # 15813 WBCCI # 03526 WBCCI # 03227 WBCCI # 21175
Art & Martha Pforr Michael Kent Candice & Pete Kissinger Denise & Edward Walsh
CO GA IN MS
BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019 7
CLUB
NEWS
Unit # 058 Unit # 069 Unit # 088 Unit # 090
WBCCI # 03573 WBCCI # 03838 WBCCI # 05673 WBCCI # 03542
Scott & Carla Holste Russell & Michelle Tether Shannon Cooper Deborah Cureton
MO NM OK OR
Unit # 059 Unit # 071 Unit # 090 Unit # 093
WBCCI # 13259 WBCCI # 03120 WBCCI # 19710 WBCCI # 03123
Leslie & Nathan Ham Lisa Kageyama & Jonathan Lloyd Tom & Terri Piefer Ron & Toni Purdum
KS NY OR PA
Unit # 059 Unit # 071 Unit # 090 Unit # 093
WBCCI # 09595 WBCCI # 22537 WBCCI # 08582 WBCCI # 12125
Charles & Caty Sanders Paul & Lisa Coffman Randy & Carolyn Tapscott John & Abby Talanca
KS NY IA PA
Unit # 059 Unit # 072 Unit # 090 Unit # 093
WBCCI # 03501 WBCCI # 03394 WBCCI # 03277 WBCCI # 21711
Michael & Mary Ann Crowe Susan Griffith & David Neill Kate Carr Richard & Sherry Larson
MO NY OR PA
Unit # 061 Unit # 072 Unit # 090 Unit # 099
WBCCI # 03135 WBCCI # 16254 WBCCI # 03282 WBCCI # 03254
John Flood James & Tina Shroads Allen & Connie Smith David Cohen
ME NY OR TX
Unit # 063 Unit # 077 Unit # 090 Unit # 099
WBCCI # 09598 WBCCI # 06931 WBCCI # 10305 WBCCI # 05424
Leah & Rob Warfield Mike Pastva & Jill McCauslin Kami & Paul Toufar Randy & Laurie Huff
NV OH OR TX
Unit # 063 Unit # 077 Unit # 090 Unit # 103
WBCCI # 08918 WBCCI # 22374 WBCCI # 03323 WBCCI # 03284
Greg & Debi Vandevier Tom & Julie Ozbolt Elizabeth & Jay Bozievich Jeff & Tracy Black
AZ OH OR TX
Unit # 064 Unit # 080 Unit # 090 Unit # 104
WBCCI # 12102 WBCCI # 03083 WBCCI # 19274 WBCCI # 03259
Diane & Jerome Jackson Andy & Cary Schultz Stacey Rovinelli & Amy Dabbraccio LeDana Zadorozny
NH OH WA TX
Unit # 065 Unit # 080 Unit # 090 Unit # 104
WBCCI # 18591 WBCCI # 03349 WBCCI # 03466 WBCCI # 10105
Victoria & Bruce Hill Ron & Kathy Taylor Jennifer McLaughlin Lisa & Dave Knapp
NH OH OR TX
Unit # 068 Unit # 084 Unit # 090 Unit # 104
WBCCI # 05185 WBCCI # 03292 WBCCI # 03485 WBCCI # 06256
Carl & Laura Baptiste Jerry & Donna Abele Rachel Morrison John & Jeanne Nixon
NJ OH OR TX
Unit # 069 Unit # 084 Unit # 090 Unit # 108
WBCCI # 03187 WBCCI # 10130 WBCCI # 21117 WBCCI # 31813
Catherine & Donald Koone Alan & Jodi Pinyerd Mark Babcock & Jana Betcher Damien Wood & Andrew Hindman
LA OH OR CA
Unit # 069 Unit # 088 Unit # 090 Unit # 109
WBCCI # 03296 WBCCI # 03088 WBCCI # 03558 WBCCI # 03169
Linda & Chris Reiter George Drake David & Sue Brown John & Susan Sipos
NM OK OR VA
Unit # 069 Unit # 088 Unit # 090 Unit # 109
WBCCI # 22697 WBCCI # 09743 WBCCI # 03565 WBCCI # 03063
Donna Nelson & William Rinehart Joseph & Clinette Leonard Michael & Johanna Blackford Garrie Denson
NM OK OR VA
8 BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019
CLUB
NEWS
Unit # 110 Unit # 112 Unit # 125
WBCCI # 20057 WBCCI # 05974 WBCCI # 03545 The information contained in
Heather Lauer Mark & Lisa Lund Alain Desjardins & France Sylvain this membership list may be
VA WA QC CANADA used for personal correspon-
dence by any member, WBCCI,
Unit # 110 Unit # 115 Unit # 129 and licensees. No membership
WBCCI # 09997 WBCCI # 09333 WBCCI # 17519 list may be used by any other
Mark & Heather Joyce Skip & Judy Deegans Shoshana Avramovitz person, firm, or commercial
VA WV FL entity.
Unit # 110 Unit # 116 Unit # 129
WBCCI # 03414 WBCCI # 17035 WBCCI # 21263 Unit # 155
Rebecca Bowen & Jeff Glading Jeffrey & Tracey Plate Harry & Frani Antrim WBCCI # 03497
WV WI FL Anthony & Debby Urbanelli
TX
Unit # 111 Unit # 116 Unit # 129
WBCCI # 03260 WBCCI # 07864 WBCCI # 03536 Unit # 158
Edward & Patricia Fornel Kevin Allen Alan & Martha Williams WBCCI # 12979
VA IL FL Temisha & Doug Poe
TN
Unit # 111 Unit # 120 Unit # 129
WBCCI # 03440 WBCCI # 03676 WBCCI # 07826 Unit # 158
Kerry May & Renee May Sharon Campbell Tammy Davis & Doug Quara WBCCI # 03128
VA AB CANADA FL Susie & Ed Stephens
TN
Unit # 112 Unit # 120 Unit # 131
WBCCI # 03093 WBCCI # 03513 WBCCI # 20195 Unit # 158
Don Pratten Grace Bole-Campbell & Rodney Beth Ann & Michael Mohr WBCCI # 03285
WA Campbell PA Keith Duke & Christy Matasick
AB CANADA TN
Unit # 112 Unit # 137
WBCCI # 03106 Unit # 124 WBCCI # 03373 Unit # 158
John Shafer WBCCI # 03141 Marc & Elena Cram WBCCI # 11913
WA Brian & Joan Barry MI Deana Howard & Charlie Sutton
ON CANADA TN
Unit # 112 Unit # 145
WBCCI # 20577 Unit # 124 WBCCI # 16912 Unit # 158
John & Linda Virostek WBCCI # 03384 Nick & Sarah Hegel WBCCI # 12167
WA Steve & Rhonda McAllister ND Larney Wilson & Dale Reifschneider
ON CANADA TN
Unit # 112 Unit # 145
WBCCI # 30217 Unit # 124 WBCCI # 03447 Unit # 161
Walter & Debbie Page WBCCI # 03358 Jane & Mark Halvorson WBCCI # 03336
AK Joseph & Katie Armitage ND Heather Bristol
ON CANADA NC
Unit # 112 Unit # 149
WBCCI # 08020 Unit # 125 WBCCI # 05712 Unit # 161
Terry & Gail Oxley WBCCI # 03149 Kirk DeMadaler & WBCCI # 24164
WA Karl Berryman & Monique Sauve Mary Ann Henderson Darla & Todd Lewis
QC CANADA VA NC
Unit # 112
WBCCI # 03228 Unit # 125 Unit # 149 Unit # 162
Tammy & Dave Fuller WBCCI # 03265 WBCCI # 19999 WBCCI # 18680
WA Louis Barbeau & Manon Villeneuve Marilyn Finnemore & Aldo Bello Janet Kight Porter & Thomas Porter
QC CANADA VA FL
Unit # 112
WBCCI # 09175 Unit # 125 Unit # 151 Unit # 164
Lawrence King & Jenny Harris WBCCI # 03267 WBCCI # 03201 WBCCI # 03127
WA Gilles Sareault & Lisette Menard Craig & Vivian Pendergrass Barbara Reed
QC CANADA MO PA
Unit # 112
WBCCI # 03338 Unit # 125 Unit # 151 Unit # 164
Joanne & Phil Nicolai WBCCI # 04598 WBCCI # 17225 WBCCI # 03550
WA David Murray & Andrea Gillis David & Kim Schodlatz Walter & Melinda Hinkle
NS CANADA MO PA
continued on page 13
BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019 9
Art
Gina Eggers, #3732
I don’t think there is any more beautiful into bite-size pieces and cut off the
place in August than the U.P. of Michigan, stem end. Add to the bowl and toss. Cut
at least not while sitting beside the some (how many is up to you) cherry
most Superior, and mother of all lakes, tomatoes (multi-colored ones look
Lake Superior. Pictured Rocks National nice) in half, or any larger tomatoes into
Lakeshore, where soaring spice-colored bite size chunks. Put in the bowl with
cliffs reflect in the aquamarine waters of the oil and vinegar and toss lightly. Peel
Munising. It’s a place you can kayak over the cooled potatoes with your fingers.
a sunken ship in 20 ft. of water and glide The skin should rub off easily. Cut out
through rock arches. Here at a Pictured any bad spots or large eyes. Cut the
Rocks Wisconsin/U.P. Chapter rally, the potatoes into bite-size chunks (like for
setting is perfect for writing this on the potato salad) and add to bowl. Add a
first day of summer on June 21. couple of chopped scallions and
some chopped parsley and basil.
For an easy and light summer dinner, or want this step to go faster but I think it makes
Add salt and pepper and mix lightly.
side, a green bean and tomato salad comes to the potatoes more watery. Scoop potatoes from
Feta cheese works well in here too if you want
mind. This goes very well with focaccia bread, the water (don’t drain the water) so they can
to add that. There are no real measurements,
recipe coming soon! cool. Throw in a couple of large handfuls
just toss everything in a bowl and taste. You
of green beans (uncut and untrimmed) and
Green Bean and Tomato Salad can always add more vinegar or olive oil or
simmer in the potato water for about 5 minutes.
(serves 4 as a side, or 2 as a large lunch) tomatoes or scallions. Herbs make the salad
As with the potatoes, they absorb less water
look lovely and gives it a bright, fresh flavor. The
For the salad, boil 4 medium size (or inside if they aren’t cut first. They should be still
beauty of this salad is not only in the colors, but
equivalent) Yukon Gold potatoes with the crisp but not hard. Drain and cool.
in the options you have. You can change the
skin on. Place in a pot of enough salted water vegetables or herbs, snap peas or dill come to
Whisk 1 1/2 tablespoons of white wine
to cover the potatoes. Cover and simmer lightly mind. You can easily increase the amounts for a
vinegar (or apple cider vinegar) and the
until firm tender, not falling apart. You can cut large AIRSTREAM RALLY salad to share!
juice of half a lemon with 3 tablespoons
the potatoes into chunks ahead of time if you
of olive oil in a bowl. Chop your green beans
Gina Eggers and boyfriend Mark Kasten are owners of a 27’ FB International Serenity, “Something Shiny.” Gina has been a lifelong camper and
foodie, attending classes and seminars around the United States on breads, grains and vegetarian/vegan and raw foods. She has been teaching
classes at a kitchen store in Wisconsin and in hers and other homes. She is a member of the Bread Baker’s Guild of America. You can reach Gina
at upnorthbread@icloud.com and you can find her on Instagram at @upnorthbread.
10 BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019 11
CLUB
NEWS
WBAC Newsletters
Start Spreadin' the News...
(with apologies to the Chairman of the Board!)
Hedda Smithson, WBAC Publications Chair
Earlier this year we compared a visit to a unit president can include a wide range of who may be dealing with challenging issues or
toyshop to the building blocks of our club information. Many bring an update of news celebrating wonderful occasions. We are here to
newsletters. We hope to use this as an outline of from the Region or International level, kudos take care of one another!
the future “Newsletter Planning Guide” that will to members who have gone the extra mile,
be posted online. encouragement to get involved, and may include There is a range of publication frequencies: our
a pithy quote to ponder. We all love to celebrate favorite is “almost monthly”. Others state a given
After reading and enjoying dozens of newsletters special days and look for our names on the list number of issues per year along with deadlines
these past few years, we want to share some of of birthdays and anniversaries. Usually there is for submission of copy.
the things we have seen. What you as readers a comment about “If you don’t see your name,
and/or editors do with this information is totally Most newsletters arrive in the in-box via an
let us know and we will add you to the list.”
up to you. Each unit is different; each editor attachment. Some editors include a “don’t miss”
Many newsletters have colorful birthday and
has different skills and/or resources. But - if or “in this issue”. Many just say “Enjoy”. Several
anniversary graphics. (Some are animated!!)
an idea catches your eye, please feel free to clubs offer the option of “Drop Box”, Constant
try something new. One of our favorite mottos Stories and photos of unit events such as Contact or a link to the unit website.
is “When was the last time you did something luncheons, rallies, and caravans form the bulk of
Watch this space for more articles regarding
for the first time?” If you have suggestions to the content of many newsletters. Many articles
newsletters and the development of a
expand this content, please share. are written with the idea of “Make folks wish
“Newsletter Planning Guide.”
they had been there.” Or “If I wasn’t there, this
Most newsletters have several parts in common. story is almost as good!” Promotional content for If anyone has input and/or suggestions for
The first page may have the logo of the unit or future events and a complete listing is included this project, feel free to send an e-mail to
club, a side bar that lists the current leadership, in many as well. publications@wbcci.org.
links to the unit’s webpage, “what’s inside”,
and guidelines for submission of content along Many have a “member update” or “sunshine” Thanks!
with contact information. A message from the section where members learn about their friends
Visit the Wally Byam Airstream Club Store at:
http://store.wbcci.org/
12 BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019Unit # 174
continued from page 9 WBCCI # 10778
Patty & John Ball
FL
Unit # 167 Unit # 168 Unit # 172 Unit # 177
WBCCI # 07728 WBCCI # 11235 WBCCI # 10022 WBCCI # 32123
Doreen & Harvey Wright Steven & Stephanie McConnell Julie & Vance Ivie Kevin Emmerson
MA TX TX Oxfordshire United Kingdom
Unit # 167 Unit # 169 Unit # 172 Unit # 177
WBCCI # 03477 WBCCI # 03529 WBCCI # 11538 WBCCI # 15551
Linda & Dan Everett Alan Newcomb & Becky Bennett Michael & Adlene Kobe Jon Penrose & Jane Peters
MA FL TX Somerset United Kingdom
Unit # 167 Unit # 172 Unit # 172 Unit # 177
WBCCI # 09168 WBCCI # 09185 WBCCI # 31481 WBCCI # 22568
Jay Wallace & Lisa McGovern David & Linda Heier Donald & Iva McLachlan Jean Pierre & Nicole Huehne
MA TX TX Niedersachsen Germany
Unit # 168 Unit # 172 Unit # 174 Unit # 177
WBCCI # 07269 WBCCI # 08081 WBCCI # 03412 WBCCI # 27120
Lorenza Smith Randall & Elizabeth Rice Michael Wilson Claire Gilbert & Adam Barber
TX TX FL Cornwall United Kingdom
Unit # 168 Unit # 172 Unit # 174 Unit # 177
WBCCI # 14014 WBCCI # 03175 WBCCI # 04982 WBCCI # 10222
Alan & Dawn Crook Owen Temple & Mary Miles Katie Deits Jack Spencer
TX TX FL West Yorkshire England
BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019 13CLUB
NEWS
A Presidential Gift to the Queen
Chuck Nesbit, #3823
The WBAC and Airstream community have All work stopped at the workshop for six days.
benefited from the leadership and of John The White House sent a small amount of wood,
Leake for well over a decade. As the current sourced from a large branch that had fallen.
president of Region 3 he has worked tirelessly There was only enough wood to make one box,
to grow club membership and support an array so John had no room for error. Everything had
of activities benefiting members. His positive to be perfect - and it was!
attitude, boundless enthusiasm, and love of
people light up any room he enters. The Leakes milled the wood and assembled it
into a small box four inches by five inches by 1
A number of years ago, John founded the 3/4” deep. Hand cut dovetail joints were used
popular Alumalina Rally which annually draws to fasten the sides of the box. The top was
over 200 Airstreams and their owners to the etched with a design from an old drawing of the
western Carolinas. The event is a permanent White House provided by the presidential staff.
date on the rally calendar of many units in An article in the October/November 2014 issue Meticulously hand cut and placed black velvet
the region. The tall man with the white beard of Garden & Gun magazine showcased the lined the box. The bottom of the box was hand
and blue beret we affectionately know as hand craftsmanship of the Leakes and gave the signed and dated by Jay before it was put in an
“Sandlapper” is ever-present at the rallies small workshop national recognition. Since then overnight package to Washington. It arrived in
he leads and attends, focused on extending orders have been flowing at an unprecedented time to make the trip to England.
southern hospitality and friendship to every rate but the Leakes respect their craft and
attendee. His wonderful wife Susan is always I spoke to John by phone a few days after
tradition. The workshop continues to produce the box shipped to the White House. Ever the
by his side making every event John is involved one quality piece at a time.
in a tremendous success. Recently they joined humble man, his voice was filled with pride and
with good friend and fellow Airstreamers Terry Recently President Trump was invited for a joy at being selected to play a small part in a
and Annie Montgomery to found an annual state visit to England by Queen Elizabeth II to historic event. After decades of developing his
“downtown” rally in their hometown of York, commemorate the 75th anniversary of the woodworking skills, the former high school shop
South Carolina. D-Day invasion of the European continent by teacher has reached the pinnacle of his craft
the allied troops. At these state visits, tradition and profession. To world leaders, he is a master
John is also an entrepreneur, craftsman and has the leaders exchanging gifts. Mrs. Trump woodworker. To the Airstream community, he
businessman. The father/son team of John and chose a Tiffany brooch for the presidential remains our good friend John.
Jay Leake are the third and fourth generations gift to Queen Elizabeth II. The White House
in a family furniture business over half a century decided to commission a custom box, made
old. Their small workshop in York produces by an American craftsman from wood saved
exquisite 17th and 18th century reproduction from a tree on the White House grounds, to
furniture to custom order for customers encase the brooch for presentation. The White
nationwide who appreciate the beauty of natural House turned
hardwoods and the hand craftsmanship of to John and Jay
another era. Step into the Leake Furniture to produce the
Makers workshop and you will see the hands of box, on a very
father and son cutting dovetails, carving a chair compressed
leg or timetable, for this
carefully historic event.
placing John & Susan Leake
intricate
inlay.
14 BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019 15
CLUB
NEWS
First Female Ready to Hit
the Ground Running as
WBCCI International President
Mark Magie #24797
Could it be that a young if she finds time between
girl’s dream of someday presidential duties, she
skating on a Roller Derby hopes to find time to read a
team led her to a life on book…not on a device, but
bigger wheels…those the old-fashioned way with
under an Airstream trailer? an “old-school” book with a
And could it be that moving cover and paper pages.
with her family from
Oklahoma to Kentucky Heath has been a WBCCI
to California to Arkansas member for ten years and
and finally to the Pacific is a member of the Oregon
Northwest instilled in this Airstream Club, #090, in
girl a nomadic spirit…not Region 10. Looking back
unlike that of Wally Byam on the past three years
who encouraged everyone as an international WBCCI
to endlessly strive to stir officer, Heath recalls “a
the venturesome spirit that delightful whirlwind of travel,
moves a person to follow a new friends, learning and
rainbow to its end? of teamwork, transparency and inclusion.” adapting while developing
collaborative and mutually respectful
Mona Heath is that girl. When Mona Heath When asked what it means to be the first relationships with the Executive Committee,
takes the reins of the world’s largest Airstream female WBCCI president, she is quick to the International Board of Trustees and our
club this July at the 62nd WBCCI International respond, “I prefer to say that I hope to be membership.”
Rally in Doswell, VA, her heart will be racing a really good international president who
thinking about the magical things happening happens to be a woman.” She hit the ground running as International
in the Wally Byam Airstream Club, and the 3rd Vice President serving as chair of
possibilities they present on behalf of the Heath has an affinity for vintage trailers. Her the International Long-Range Planning
almost 16,000 members who are living the first travel trailer was a 1962 Shasta which Committee, embracing that role by developing
Airstream dream. “I will work to ensure WBCCI “opened her eyes and spirit to camping.” It opportunities for improvement. It is her
is positioned to engage current and future was while camping near the Canadian border priority to plan for the future and leave no club
Airstream owners, while retaining the rich that she saw a vintage Airstream with its flags member behind as “we move forward and
heritage of travel, friendship and adventure flying, and she was hooked. She purchased continue to learn from the past.”
inspired by Wally Byam,” says the incoming a 1969 Tradewind and affectionately named
it Kalakala. Next was a 1957 Bubble named Among Heath’s goals are …
international president.
Wanda, followed by a 1961 Bambi called
• Commit to our members to preserve the
“I’m super excited about the branding work Rogue, then a 1957 Flying Cloud christened
WBCCI unimpaired for future generations
which influences all aspects of the club…the Alice, and a 2011 Bambi named GiGi.
of Airstream owners and club members
new website, new print collateral to welcome
Her current Airstream is a 2019 27-foot with strategic and fact-based planning
new members and support recruitment
Globetrotter Copenhagen lovingly named while respecting our rich heritage.
efforts, a new data base while maintaining our
core value: we camp and we caravan.” A team Globby, which she looks forward to traveling in
• Create an inclusive environment at all
builder herself, Heath says “our international during her tenure as president. Her traveling
levels where club practices and policies
vice-presidents are so incredibly aligned and companion is Izzy, a chihuahua/rat terrier
serve to unite members; where all
I’m confident they will carry forward the spirit who she never leaves home without. And
16 BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019CLUB
NEWS
• Align with Airstream, Inc. on a commitment to premium customer
to maximize the power of the experiences and the cultivation of corporate
Airstream brand, which in turn relationships. She developed partnerships
will align our actions with the with key stakeholders, implemented fleet
lifestyle of the new Airstream management processes to manage the
owner while remaining relevant to logistics of a $4 million inventory and, as
existing members. General Manager, led teams and resources
in multiple locations across the country.
• Embrace a seamless Ask Heath about an Airstream adventure
relationship between our she would like to forget, and she may tell
members and Airstream, Inc.; its you about a “man down” tank flush incident
dealer network and marketing. during her first Airstream 2 Go corporate
event.
members are treated with respect, all • Support Airstream
views valued and all voices heard. digital initiatives and product launches In the midst of her professional career, Heath
simultaneously. has found time to attend the Albuquerque
• Encourage a broader scope of national International Balloon Fiesta two times, the
and special event rallies to include • Commit to a shared sustainability
Texas Vintage Rally two times, multiple region
non-club events (Urban Air, Alumalina, platform for Airstream owners and the
rallies, a caravan ending at the Washington
Alumapalooza, etc.). Wally Byam Airstream Club (WBAC).
Land Yacht Harbor for a crab feed rally, and
If Heath hit the ground running, it’s because next year’s WBCCI International Rally in
• Introduce unit/region short caravans and
she knows how the “rubber meets the road.” Loveland, CO will be her ninth international
caravans that incorporate rallies into
Besides being a competitive roller-skater rally.
their route, allowing members who can’t
participate fully to meet up along the way. in her earlier days, Mona Heath is a self-
Still, her favorite place to camp with Izzy in
described “shoe dog.” She left a position at
her new Globby is on the Oregon coast at
• Develop a membership growth and Boeing to sell shoes for nearly 10 years at
Sea & Sand RV Park. The campground is
profitability strategy independent of Nordstrom where she became a buyer with
terraced offering spectacular beach and ocean
industry trends through the creation of a more responsibility.
views…Heath prefers the lowest tier closest
brand messaging platform which attracts
That led to various sales management to the water where she and Izzy can stroll on
non-club owners of new and used
positions at Nike, Inc. for 11 years where the sand, watch the sun set, and curl up with
Airstreams.
she developed distribution strategies and a real book in her Airstream.
• Establish an International Marketing consumer targeting, exceeding revenue
What is she most looking forward to as
Standing Committee that will embed a expectations. As a buying director at Nike,
WBCCI president? “The same thing I’m doing
compelling, consistent and engaging Heath gathered consumer insights and
now – traveling, meeting up with dear friends
voice throughout our print, digital and influenced production creation that propelled
and making new ones. It is truly an honor to
social media platform. the global basketball, golf and Jordan brands,
be in this position,” Heath says. “We honor
while leveraging team resources, to exceed
• Reinvent our publications with content, our history and our legacy. It’s who we are.
revenue and stock ledger margin budgets.
layout and advertising that incorporate The Wally Byam Airstream Club exemplifies
relevant voices from within and outside For two years, Heath was a regional sales the Airstream lifestyle, and with that, the
the club (e.g. Vintage Trailer Supply, manager for another footwear company, possibilities are indeed endless.”
blogs, etc.). Sorel. She assembled a team of
sales representatives in Sorel’s
• Promote the improvement of our club west territory, empowering them as
vision utilizing the LRPC 2017 survey marketplace experts and supporting
results and, in turn, improve membership their distribution strategies. The west
recruiting and retention. territory included four of the top five
accounts and represented more than
• Improve electronic media by investing
60-percent of the US marketplace
in a new club database and website
revenue for FY11.
platform which is adaptable, easy to
navigate, engaging to current and future Most recently, Heath established
club members and delivers revenue a Los Angeles, CA Airstream
through a digital marketing platform. 2 Go rental location, focusing
BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019 17CLUB
NEWS
Alabama Airstream Club helps welcome new
Airstream Dealer to North Alabama
Bill Lancaster, #12345
Members of the WBAC Alabama will be supporting the Athens
Airstream Club participated in the Old Time Fiddlers Rally (October
Grand Opening of the new Rocket 1-6). Rocket City will have new
City Airstream located at 21768 Airstream trailers on display
Alabama Highway 20, Tanner, AL. at the rally site. Tim Maxwell,
Rocket City is the only Airstream WBAC Club Member, will
dealer in North Alabama, providing be conducting a seminar on
sales and service of Airstream Zip Dee awning operation/
products. Jayco products are also maintenance and providing an
available at Rocket City. There were update on Airstream Company
three (3) Ribbon Cutting ceremonies operations and initiatives. For
on Friday, March 29 with Chambers Airstreamers planning to attend
of Commerce representatives from Trace Adkins, country music and film star, relaxing in front of one of the new
the Region 6 Rally in Muscle
Athens, Decatur and Huntsville Flying Cloud Airstream trailers during the Grand Opening of Rocket City Airstream Shoals, AL (October 10-14),
participating. Country music and Literature about the Airstream way of life, who may need to have maintenance work done,
film star Trace Adkins attended the festivities pictures from past rallies and information on or simply need a place to stay between Rallies,
and did the ribbon cutting honors. the Special Event - Athens Old Time Fiddlers Rocket City will be providing a limited number
Rally was available for attendees at the grand of water and electric camping sites at their
opening of Rocket City Airstream. Rocket City dealership, at no charge.
Ribbon cutting ceremony
(Left to Right) Bill & Betty Lancaster (President and First Lady-
Alabama Airstream Club); Russ & PJ Pry (Past-President and First
Lady-Alabama Airstream Club);Trace Adkins, country music & film star;
Tim Maxwell, Airstream Regional Director of Sales-Eastern Region.
18 BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019 19
CLUB
NEWS
First Club Caravan to Mexico
in over 20 Years
Michel Bourassa, #2568
Having just returned home from our Region 10, you have come!”; a cab driver on a country road to turn the water pump off before heading out
BC Unit sponsored 2-month caravan to Mexico, trip “You see, my country is safe – we all want and flooding his rig – twice! And your writer for
I delight in viewing the hundreds the photos that you to be safe!” and a school teacher “We are diving into a shallow pool and nicely conking his
we took and those taken by our friends posted honoured that you have come.” head.
on Facebook. I think that between the 25 of
In addition, our caravan of 12 Airstreams from We had our share of adventures: One
us on the caravan, we must have over 1,000
16’ to 30+, wending its way through towns caravanner’s tow vehicle had a fuel pump fail
photographs recording everything from meal
and rural roads always generated “thumbs up” in the middle of a three-way intersection but
presentations to ancient ruins and even a dog
by pedestrians, waves, smiles and shouts of was rescued by the Green Angels and soon on
who thought he was a cow, and indeed it's nice
“Benvenudos” from kids and adults. They were their way. Later, a caravanner locked their keys
to revisit the sights we experienced in that way.
happy that we were there in Mexico! in their truck - no problema - a locksmith was
“A picture is worth 1000 words” according to found at 7 in the morning and he opened her
That is the Mexico that cannot be displayed
the old saw, but there remain some things that door while still in his pyjamas; another had a
in a photo and that is the Mexico that awaits
pictures simply cannot communicate. wheel on his rig burn out in the middle of a large
adventurers who are willing to take the step busy city street – the Green Angels arrived; then
There are no photographs of what really across the border. the police and in a jiff they were escorted off to
mattered and what was so important to all of a mechanic who vaporized out of the blue and
We were 12 Airstreamers, all WBAC members,
us on this inaugural caravan to Mexico: The within 45 minutes they were back on the road
in the caravan. A nice sized group that quickly
gracious, happy welcome we experienced from with the group. For whatever problem arose,
bonded and became quite cohesive. This was
ordinary Mexican people. Those images live in there was always a solution.
a big asset given some of the challenges we
the mind, and the emotions they generated in
faced. To keep morale high after certain of
the heart - No photo can capture that. At a gas In our travels, we were able to spread a little
those “events”, the Rubber Chicken Award was
pump, a driver pulled up: “Thank you Senor for bit of Airstream love, something everyone
created. It passed though many hands at Happy
visiting my country”; at a street vendor’s food participated in, and contributed to. Airstream
Hour over the two months we were together. The
stand: “Where are you from? Welcome! Here itself participated by donating 25 backpacks
criteria for earning the custody of the beloved
(proffering a gordita) free for our guests”; at the that we filled with basic toiletry needs and
chicken, varied but by way of example, consider
Centre for Fine Arts in Mexico City, an official donated to an orphanage for young boys. The
these: The owner of an Airstream trailer that
“Did you really like our presentations? (Yes!) You boys welcomed us as visitors, if not almost
flew – well, was airborne for a few seconds after
like Mexican culture? (Yes!) We are so proud family. They were curious about us and were
hitting an unseen Topes; and to another member delighted with our presence and our gifts. The
seen to be trailing toilet paper from his black event was more akin to graceful sharing, not
water discharge pipe; another for forgetting condescending colonialism that some people
feared it would be. We also visited a rural
Durango-Mazatlan Highway Bridge Carnival in Mazatlan Tunnel on Durango-Mazatlan Highway
20 BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019CLUB
NEWS
school, not very well supported by the system, They cook what you bring! We
and donated enough collected school supplies enjoyed our shrimp plates each
for the 60 kids that were there. Once again, in with dozens of different sauces.
a great environment of different people meeting
Safety was never an issue.
and sharing. They won’t forget us that’s for
We rode in open air cabs,
certain.
went on individual side trips,
The events we participated in were amazing: walked streets at night, mixed
Carnival in Mazatlán; an evening stroll though a with local people, strolled
small colonial city accompanied by professional around small and large towns,
troubadours and Gaspar, the burro, who carried ate, travelled, bargained
wine for us; Guanajuato (just the city name with shopkeepers and street
needs no more in particulars); the Folkloric vendors essentially, living in
This is Us!!
Ballet and music event at the Centre for Fine Mexico, without any threats or
Arts in Mexico City; Teotihuacan – majestic ruins worries at any time.
from 2000 years ago; a copper atelier where we
The route, meals and tours were well done,
watched copper jewelry and wares being made
interesting and in many instances, unique, well
by hand; the Durango – Mazatlán highway and
planned and well led. We made new friends
of course the beaches at Lo de Marcos and
within the club and learned valuable lessons
Boca Iguanas just to name a few.
from this first caravan by WBAC to Mexico in
The meals that we were treated to were over 20 years which will be incorporated into the
gourmet delights, just incredible. No pizzas future caravans that are planned for Mexico.
for us, we dined at top notch restaurants
Small girl and her "baby" for us to see
in just about every locale we traveled to.
Cooking lessons for creating Mexican dishes
were provided on two occasions which
proved to be a big hit with everyone. For
something different, several us went to
the Mazatlán fish market and bought
about 6 kilos of freshly caught shrimp,
then took them across the street where
they were cooked for us in a restaurant
that had no food. Yes, no food to sell:
Drone photo of bridge on Durango-Mazatlan 2000 year old painting found on wall at the
Highway Teotihuacan Ruins
Selecting shrimp
Over the Sierra Madre Mountains BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019 21CLUB
NEWS
2020 Mid-Winter IBT
January 20-24
Oasis Las Vegas RV Resort
4711 W. Windmill Lane
Las Vegas, Nevada 89123
Website: OasisLasVegasRVResort.com
800.566.4707
Join us in sunny Las Vegas, Nevada at the highly rated Oasis Las Vegas RV Resort with its
beautiful pools, spa, fitness center and 18-hole putting course on site.
The colorful Las Vegas Strip and great entertainment are nearby as are several interesting
museums including the Neon Museum, Carroll Shelby Museum and the National Atomic Testing
Museum. You will find historical Hoover Dam just a short drive from the RV Resort. An optional
evening, ‘The Rat Pack is Back’, will be available to our members.
Airport: McCarran International Airport (LAS) is seven miles from the Resort
Nearby hotels: Silverton Casino & Hotel, 3333 Blue Diamond Blvd, 866.722.4608
Hilton Garden Inn, 7830 South Las Vegas Blvd, 702.453.7830
Rally fee includes Welcome reception, dinner, continental breakfasts, entertainment,
meetings and Airstream camaraderie
Camping (four nights) plus rally fee for two: $360
Camping (four nights) plus rally fee for one: $280
Camp one night on each end at the rally rate of $50/night
Call Resort directly to book/pay for extra days
Rally fee, no camping per person: $80
To register: https://region12.airstreamclub.net
Questions? Jim Polk, Region 12 President Email: JamesPolk@PolkValuations.com
Book early, limited RV sites, hotels can book up
Registration due by November 1, 2019
No refunds provided after November 20, 2019
Thank you for your understanding
22 BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019SERVING AIRSTREAM OWNERS SINCE 1968
• Airstream polishing
• Airstream restoration
• ZipDee dealer
• Dometic dealer
• Collision & hail damage
• Water damage to floors
419.638.6261 • Axle replacement
Steve, Kevin, and Billy Ruth • Custom flooring
steve@pandstrailerservice.com • Airstream rental (event
4702 US Hwy 6 | Helena, Ohio 43435 promotions)
www.pandstrailerservice.com
BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019 23CLUB
NEWS
Our European Road Trip - Part 2
The Heights of Europe with Ice Cream!
Don Lewis, #16592
I continue the story of our wonderful trip got on most nights. The sunflowers in the
surrounding fields are normally wilting when
through France, Switzerland, Germany and we are there in the late summer, but they had
Belgium in the summer of 2018. Hopefully not yet burst into bloom and it was nice to
you read the first episode in the last Blue see them this early. The local wine is Gaillac.
Beret where we had got as far as Coulon in Try some - it’s excellent. We scheduled visits
the West of France travelling in Ali, our 2015 to local vineyards - after all we had the space
International 684 Airstream, similar to a 27ft to bring some home...well, there’s always
US model but 8ft 3ins wide. room for wine and, of course, ice cream, but
To remind you of who was travelling, we there was none on this travel day so double
are the Lewis family - Don (me), my wife boules tomorrow!
Amanda, Abigail our 15-year-old daughter
and, with us on every trip so far, Amanda’s
mum, Betty. And of course, we can’t forget
Barkley, our Golden Doodle dog.
So, you rejoin us on day 11 as we take a
long seven-hour drive from Coulon down to
the Midi-Pyrenées and what we think is the Close to Cordes-sur-Ciel
most beautiful bastide (fortified) town in France, Sunflowers in Cordes-sur-Ciel
Airstream. It is available worldwide - and I have
Cordes-sur-Ciel, a name that reflects the town’s
no links with the developers! Next day we were able to do a bit of exploring
site on a hill above the clouds that frequently
collect in the river valley. We discovered it and catching up on the local gastronome...well
French cars often went by giving us the thumbs
a number of years ago and just have to keep crêpes and ice cream!! The town’s history dates
up and hooting their horns…I assumed they
going back – we once even drove for over two back to the crusades and it was the first bastide
were admiring the guy driving…but maybe
hours for a day out from near Toulouse…and to town, built in 1222 to replace the town of Saint-
it was the Airstream that impressed them!
savour some of their magnificent lavender ice Marcel which had been burnt to the ground by
Actually, on that note Amanda and I split the
cream. Yes, if you read the last episode you will driving 50:50 and we often arrange it so that the troops of Simon de Montfort. You will see
know this trip has a theme! from the pictures that this new town was built
Amanda drives into the campsites. She gets
in a highly defendable position on a hill, but
looks of surprise and comments that a ‘lady is
As usual, the drive down in our Land Rover unfortunately that didn’t stop it being pillaged
brave enough to tow something so big!’ A very
Discovery pulling Ali was effortless, helped by in 1436 during the 100 years’ war!! All the
out-dated view, I am sure you will agree…and
France’s excellent Autoroute system. It was streets are narrow, very medieval and on a very
anyway Amanda is much better at parking.
only on the last 10 miles that we had to make steep hill - obviously! There are lots of arty gift
sure we had checked the route to ensure we We arrived at a very small campsite about 5 km shops, actually selling some nice stuff as well
avoided small narrow village roads. On this trip (3 miles) from Cordes - Camping Camp Redon. as the usual tourist bits. At the top, the views
we invested in ‘Co-Pilot,’ a great sat-nav app It was a simple site and a little too tight to get are fantastic across the surrounding hills, so are
that runs on the iPhone and Android devices and onto the pitch we wanted but thank goodness the crêpes and ice cream! I have included a
allows you to enter the length, width, height and for motor movers. There were easier pitches, picture of a well that drops 113m (370ft) to the
weight to make sure the route is safe for the but none matched the view of the sunsets we underground river below. Now spoilt by a coin
24 BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019CLUB
NEWS
me we had thunderstorms with lightning and people telling us off for putting a coat on him in
torrential rain overnight. I never heard a thing. the hot weather. It was only when we explained
One of the benefits of wearing hearing aids is how it is soaked in water and keeps Barkley
being able to take them out at night! cooler that they would then say “ahh tres bien”
and we were all friends again. Albi is a lovely
Day 13 started with a quick trip into Cordes place to visit if
as it was market day - quite a small one in you are in the
comparison to others we have been to. We also area – go to see
went back to the hill we found the day before the cathedral if
Cordes Market Place because the light was better for pictures of nothing else.
Cordes.
Back at Ali we
Then it was a very typical French lunch, back had another
at Ali, our home away from home, with fresh great sunset –
bread, sliced cured sausage (saucisson) and Barkley having a paddle the reflections
pâté with salad. I did wonder if it would have against the aluminium
been healthier to have had another couple of and sunglasses (as we call the protective screen
crêpes and ice at the front) always make for a great photo.
cream - even
I had two of these!
Amanda thought The great thing about being so flexible in your
The well that saved
the town the crêpes travel plans with the Airstream is that you have
were potentially complete freedom to plan your route and not
healthier. On worry about hotels, etc. That’s even better when
that assumption you can also plan your route to catch up with
we went to Albi old friends. Day 14 was one of those days and
and had ice soooo relaxing. We visited an old IBM friend of
cream!! mine who lives in a beautiful house 45 minutes
from Cordes in Les Pesquiés. With Colin and his
Albi has been wife Jennie, we celebrated him finally retiring
Excuse the distortion,
a settlement from IBM after a fantastic career - for a lot
but it's big!
since the Bronze Age of which we
and was a centre for the worked together.
Cathars who developed I wish you could
their own version of Christianity and were seen see Colin’s BBQ
The hills are steep but help as a threat by Rome. On their defeat, the red-
work off the ice cream! set up which
brick Cathedral of Sainte Cécile was built as a produced great
statement of dominance of the Catholic Church. marinated
machine, it enabled the town to get water, even It is the largest brick-built structure in the world chicken! They
when under siege. and has a very elaborate interior. It is absolutely have been
enormous and dominates the surrounding area. working hard
Looking for the best photograph of the town, we
made our way up the hill opposite where we got Albi is the capital city for the Tarn Department in on their house
a great view looking back across the valley. Occitanie. It has open areas with fountains and for over 18
narrow shopping streets. It was very hot, and Sunset in Cordes years, making
Our evening was spent drinking wine, playing it to a wonderful bolthole.
Barkley got to paddle in a fountain. He attracted
board games and watching another wonderful Barkley had a swim in the pool and then played
a lot of attention on our trip because he is such
sunset. Oh, and the Airstream had glowworms ball. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit and, as
a big dog and also because of his water coat.
around it. We had never seen them before, and usual, I ate and drank too much, not helped by
The French didn’t seem to have seen them and
they are quite amazing and really bright. It was Colin remembering I like Magnum ice creams!!!
so we were constantly having angry French
a very pleasant day. However, Amanda told
BLUE BERET / AUGUST 2019 25You can also read
