Bounder Sounder THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF BOUNDERS UNITED, INC.

NOVEMBER 2008

www.bounder.net

Moreno Valley Eagle Nest & Angel Fire Northern New Mexico’s Lakeside Playground

Tech Tidbits Easy Cooking for 2 Letters to the Editor

NOVEMBER 2008

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BOUNDERS UNITED, INC. Executive Board James Ballard 1211 S. Western Skies Dr Gilbert, AZ 85296-4346 (480) 688-6440 [email protected]

President:

Vice Presidents: Executive: Marilynn Reynolds 114 Briar Crest Drive Monroeville, PA 15146 (412) 373-1161 [email protected] Eastern: Jimmie Cavanaugh 203 Woodberry Court Winston-Salem, NC 27107 (336) 784-8251 [email protected] Central: Mary Ann Snider 6004 Regulus Dr El Paso, TX 79924 (915) 757-0081 [email protected] Western:

Special Interests:

Sandy Levinson 3638 E Southern Ave. #C105-205 Mesa, AZ 85206 (480) 414-2699 [email protected] Bob Scharmann 246 W. Crockett St. Manteca, CA 95337 (209) 823-5688 [email protected]

Secretary:

Betty Schneider 42700 via del Campo Temecula, CA 92592-2157 (951) 676-5588 [email protected]

Treasurer:

Don Low 216 Derecho Way Tracy, CA 95376-1945 (209) 835-7971 [email protected]

Past President:

Patrick Towle 9915 W Bell Road #435 Sun City, AZ 85351 (602) 499-5818 [email protected]

BOUNDERS “CRABBING TOGETHER” BU and BOA by Gwen Fraser, BU 8632 Tri-State Brigade The Chesapeake, as we speak, is a very lovely place. In September of ‘09, to Urbanna we’ll race. To join in fun and fellowship with all our fellow Bounders, to enjoy the good bay bounty of oysters, crabs and flounders. The Rappahannock flows right into the Bay It is so lovely, sent from Heaven’s way. Williamsburg is just over the hill Reedville Ferry to Tangier Island is quite a thrill. Eat some seafood and relax a bit Grab a book and just plain sit. Gaze at the stars and moon at night Shining over the Bay, what a sight. Walmart is just 18 miles away Chill out on the USA’s largest Bay. So get you party clothes all ready, tune up the ‘ole RV AND Join the Tri-State and Wino-Roos for the ‘09 Jamboree.

Other Bounders United Staff Fleetwood Liaison-Riverside Bob Scharmann (209) 823-5688 Fax: (209) 823-4426 [email protected]

Fleetwood Liaison-Paxinos Maurice Eddy (724) 646-0851 [email protected]

Webmaster Don Malick (520) 219-8480 [email protected]

Historian Martha Cavanaugh (336) 784-8251 [email protected]

Nominating Committee Lee Baur, Chair 865-927-8437 [email protected]

Scholarship Committee Anna Scharmann (209) 823-5688 [email protected]

National Rallymaster Nancy Davis (775) 750-1842 [email protected]

Const. & By-Laws Committee Don Low, Chair (209) 835-7971 [email protected]

The Bounder Sounder is the official publication of Bounders United, Inc. Editor/Publisher Patrick Towle Assistant Editor Phyllis Towle Contributing Editors Robert Miller, Food Bob Weithofer, Computers

Remember we haven’t had a Bounders United rally in the East since 2003 We are looking forward to seeing you again.

Bounders “Crabbing” Together Bethpage Camp-Resort Urbanna, Virginia September 22-25, 2009

Technical Editors (We’re always looking for these.) Advertising and Commercial Member Phyllis Towle

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What we did on our summer vacation this year The Moreno Valley of New Mexico By: Pat Towle

Living in a part of the country that suffers with triple digit temperatures in the summer months, as we do, it has become something of a challenge to stay cool even before Memorial Day and beyond Labor Day. And the current high fuel prices preclude just jumping in the Bounder and heading out. Early on in our summer trip planning for this year, I was given a two part edict; some place cool and no more than two tanks of fuel from home. We started thinking and some looking at places in southern Utah and Colorado, an area that we have visited, when I remembered reading of the Rio Grande Bounder’s trips to northern New Mexico, especially a town named Angel Fire and another named Eagle Nest. After a bit of searching the Internet, I found both to be located 8,200 feet up in the mountains of north central New Mexico, in an area called the Moreno Valley. A little more looking and we decided we had found a cool home for the summer.

Early morning fog rolls off the mountains onto Eagle Nest Lake.

As it was called in one of the publications that I found, the “majestic Moreno Valley” is located about 25 miles east of Taos and 160 miles northeast of Albuquerque. It is bisected by US 64 that offers a good test of a driver’s ability to handle multiple and sometimes tight turns on about 20 miles of quite narrow roadway on both sides of the valley. The valley itself is about 15 miles long and three miles wide and it has a base elevation of 8,382 feet. Toward the north end of the valley is Baldy Peak at 12,441, near the south end at 11,086 is Agua Fria Peak and sort of on the northwest corner of the valley is 13,161 foot high Wheeler Peak, the highest point in the state. A nomadic tribe, the Moache Utes, would gather in the valley in the summer and fall and, according to legend, they called the glow against Agua Fria Peak the “fire of the gods.” Traveling Franciscan friars came through the area and their translation came out as “the place of the fire of angels.” During the mid-1800s, Lucien B. Maxwell and NOVEMBER 2008

A Summer To Remember ! By: Phyllis Towle

This summer we decided not to travel east but to some place cool and close. I told Pat we could go anywhere as long as it was no more than 2 gas tanks full (70 gallon tanks) and cool!!!! He spent some time last winter and spring searching out spots. We finally decided on a campground in Eagle Nest, New Mexico. Actually it was between Eagle Nest and Angel Fire at 8,258 feet. We were surrounded by mountains and our camping spot looked out over a lake. We never had to turn the air conditioner on and the furnace even came on in the early mornings. Snow was still on the mountains when we arrived. I do believe we might have been the only ones in the campground who didn’t fish! However, we did enjoy some of what others caught. Eagle Nest has a population of approximately 300 people and Angel Fire is slightly over 1,000. If you are a fast food junkie this isn’t the place for you. No fast food joints, no big chain restaurants, and no big chain grocery stores. We had to drive 35 miles to Taos for big grocery shopping. There was a convenience market in Angel Fire where you would go only for necessities. However, we didn’t lack for things to do. Every other Tuesday we had a potluck at the campground and every Sunday night they showed a movie. Every Friday afternoon there was a Farmer’s Market at another campground. And, of course, there was the sight seeing. In Cimarron there was the St. James Hotel where Bat Masterson and many others stayed. Ted Turner has a Bison Ranch between Cimarron and Raton. The Boy Scouts of America have a big complex outside of Cimarron and museum. There was Red River where the motorcycles have a big rally Memorial Day weekend, a bike race and, of course, a lot of gift shops. In Mora there are a number of alpaca ranches, a weaving museum, and a great restaurant. Angel Fire is a skiing area but in the summer months they have a number of activities – flea market to raise money for the Library (lots of good books at good prices), outdoor movies on the green, concerts, a quilt shop and a couple of fabulous restaurants. Eagle Nest had a juried Arts and Crafts show, a Wine Tasting show and the best 4th of July celebration we have been to in a long time. And there is Taos and Santa Fe within easy driving distance with all the arts and crafts you could ever want. And, when we weren’t sightseeing, attending the many functions, and visiting with other campers we just sat back, put our feet up and relaxed. We intend to travel there next summer so if you are in the vicinity, stop by and see us and we will show you the sights. 3

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Christopher “Kit” Carson traversed the area and coined the phrase “Angel Fire” that became the name of the largest town in the valley; today it is a marvelous ski area In 1864, Mr. Maxwell obtained a land grant for the 1.7 million acres of the valley’s pasture and hunting land. This changed in 1867 when gold was discovered on Baldy Mountain, and, within a year, 7,000 fortune hunters flooded the area, establishing Elizabethtown. This started a 17 year war between land owners and squatters. Elizabethtown, once a thriving town of more than 7,000 residents, is now a ghost town that looks down on the valley and Baldy Mountain. In 1886, local Indians went to the Fort Union army post near Las Vegas, NM, to trade some “pretty rocks” for supplies. One of the Indians gave Capt. William Moore some of these rocks, who quickly recognized them as rich in copper ore. It was not long after this that gold was found in Willow Creek. This news did not take long to spread and the area was soon overrun by gold seekers. Their settlement began to grow and was later named Elizabethtown, after Capt. Moore’s daughter. A few miles to the south, in an area mainly used for farming and ranching, is the Cimarron River. In 1916, Charles and Frank Springer started what would eventually be the largest privately constructed dam in the US was started. It was finished two years later and retains the river waters for mining, irrigation and power plants.

Eagles may have built their nests on the sides of the dam, hence the names Eagle Nest dam, the lake behind it, and the village that developed nearby. By 1956, Roy and George LeBus had purchased the nine thousand acre Monte Verde Ranch plus another 14,000 acres. Ten years later, the decision was made to develop a resort community to be called Angel Fire, using the phrase coined by Kit Carson after the Indian lore. In about 18 months, a nine hole golf course and the beginnings of the ski trails were begun. Further development continued over the next several years, the facility was sold several times, it floundered through the 1980s recession, endured several law suits and finally ended up in bankruptcy. By 1996, most of the disputes were settled, a limited partnership stepped in and by 1973, over 20,000 skiers visited Angel Fire. In that same year, a lodge and country club were added. As Phyllis points out in her article, Eagle Nest, Angel Fire and the Moreno Valley are a wonderful place to spend a cool summer, as we will next year. Although it was difficult in the beginning, we soon—and happily—found that we could easily get along without the fast food and/or big corporate eateries of the big city and we learned to totally relax in our new found ‘home away from home.’ (Cover photo; Baldy Mountain overlooking the valley and the village of Eagle Nest, with the northern edge of Eagle Nest lake on the right.)

Something special

For those with Internet capability... And who are reading their hard copy of this issue of the Bounder Sounder, we have a little something special for you. Fire up your computer, go online and to www.bounder.net, then click on the “Sounder” link. Are you there now? Then you know that the cover of this issue is in color. There also are some color photographs within the body of the publication, along with the announcement of the 2009 National Rally in Urbanna, Virginia, on the back page. Photos have been presented in color in some previous editions and we hope to continue this—on the Web site only—in future issues. Sad to say, the price of printing in color is far beyond the limits of the present budget. And if you would rather receive the “electronic version,” in color, of the Bounder Sounder, just drop an email note to Betty Schneider, National Secretary, and she will take care of the change. However, we will be happy to use YOUR photographs on the cover and within future editions of the Bounder Sounder. We are looking for travel or camping related photos and if there is a Bounder or two included, that is fine. Pictures that accompany write-ups for Chapter Happenings should include members of the chapter engaged in an activity including and beyond enjoying a meal. Any pictures submitted should be sent as an attachment to an email, but should not be included within an article. The email can also have an attached Chapter Happening or a piece about your own travels. If you have more than one photo, send them and we will use the best of the bunch. If you need guidance as to the type of picture to send, you have only to look at some of the ‘big time’ RV magazines. We will be watching our email at [email protected] for your contributions. 4

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Chapter Happenings Eastern Region Buckeye Bounders (Ohio) By Mary Truett Well, fall is here, the summer is quickly disappearing, and that brings the end of camping season for BUCKEYE BOUNDERS and others, too. We do still have a very nice campout planned for October at Buckeye Lake. And a lot of you other folks will be attending the BOUNDER BASH '08 Rally in Tucson. We know that you will have a great time, and we wish that we could be joining you. Best wishes to all of you for another GREAT RALLY! We, here in Ohio and in other parts of the Middle West, just endured a most unpleasant event--an unusual tail-end of Hurricane Ike! We had trees and power lines down (with the resulting power outages for up to 8 - 10 days!) That, of course, meant having to throw out food that was in our refrigerators, and having to take extraordinary measures to save the contents of our freezers. We also had to endure days without the power to operate our many appliances. We sure had a wake-up call as to how much we take our modern conveniences for granted and how much we rely on them to make our days and nights easier! But of course, we only endured inconveniences, lots of other folks lost much, much more. So our prayers go out to them to have their lives return to normal as soon as possible. Our BUCKEYE BOUNDERS just enjoyed a great campout at the Cardinal Center Campground in Marengo, Ohio, hosted by Ed and Sue Sims along with Frank and Alma Holter assisting. Beautiful weather, delicious food, and great fellowship! And our great group has stepped up and completed our 2009 Camping Schedule. It will be submitted for posting in the "Coming Events" section. That is our invitation to Bounder owners to come visit with us--we'd love to have you!! Until we meet again, best wishes to all, safe travels and HAPPY BOUNDERING!

Tri-State Brigade (OH, PA, and WV) By: Lorraine Soplinski The first stop on our way to BethPage Resort in Urbanna, VA was in Harrisburg, PA to visit the huge RV show being held there. We visited many vendors and were able to see many of the Bounders on display, and met with Fleetwood Personal. We were accompanied by Nick and Trudy Greco from the Wino-Roo chapter of BOA who are co-chairpersons for the 2009 rally. We arrived in Urbanna on Friday afternoon and had a relaxing evening. Saturday, the Eddy’s and Storms of Tri NOVEMBER 2008

-State Brigade arrived, we visited some of the local stores and had a happy hour before and after dinner. Sunday, BOA President Franz Singer and his wife Doris of the Keystone Bounders, joined us along with the Peterson’s from Bay Area Bounders and the Zimmermans of the Pocono Bounders. During happy hour we discussed some things we have accomplished so far for the rally. Monday the Kidney’s and Reynolds, Tri-State members arrived, again we discussed the rally and visited some of the local stores. We had a nice visit during the evening hours. On Tuesday many went to scope out the area to see what there is to see and visit. The Coshland’s of Bay Area Bounders joined us. Late afternoon we had a seafood appetizer buffet and then a meeting concerning the rally. We discussed many things from chair people to volunteers, vendors, and entertainment. Much was accomplished during that time. We closed with a toast to a successful rally. Thursday found us hunting for items to put into the basket to be taken to the Bounder Bash rally in Tucson, AZ. We drove to many of the little towns near Urbanna, also over a bridge that stretched over the Chesapeake Bay, what a glorious sight to see. Some had to leave on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, while the others stayed until Saturday or Sunday. It was an enjoyable time and we do thank those from the other chapters for spending time with us and volunteering to help out, it certainly is appreciated. We will now put on the finishing touches and be ready to go.

Central Region Great Lake-A-Roos (MI. IN, and IL) By: Paul Gerhardt Our annual Tri-State Rally was held Sept. 9-13th in Michigan City, Indiana. Gloria and Mike Baker were our Rally Masters. We were again pleased that we scheduled our annual rally for early September. The weather was outstanding (except for the rain during the night on Friday), a great campground that would not have been available during the summer, and easy access to locations like casinos, malls, sand dunes, and lakefronts around the area with no crowds. We have begun to plan for the second week in September for 2009 at Shipshewana South Campground. The first night was filled with greeting old friends and a burger dinner. The evening went by quickly catching up with friends’ travels, families, rig issues, and plans for the winter. 5

Chapter Happenings (Continued from page 5)

The second day started with a wonderful breakfast in the rec. hall and our annual business meeting. At the meeting we took care of routine items and then went on to two additional items. First, we again voted to provide a $50 door prize for the BOUNDER BASH ’08. This is the 4th national rally we have supported with a door prize. Second, we had a long, long discussion of the merger of Bounders United and Bounders of America. Every comment and concern centered on the phrases of “we need to do it ASAP” or “this is a no brainer” and “it is a win-win for both groups.” Our chapter is very, very much in favor of a merger. That evening we played big stakes dime bingo. The third day had another wonderful breakfast of egg casserole with bacon and that evening a dinner of chicken on the grill. We had a ‘gift-switch-around’ that left some dashed hopes, lots of opportunities and lots of laughs. The fourth day started with pancakes and sausage and ended with chili and goodies around the campfire. The evening ended a little early as it began to rain. The last day we gathered for a yummy continental breakfast, said our good-byes for another year and hit the road.

Rocky Roos (Colorado) By: Joan Stevens This week was known by a TV network as “National Stay at Home Week” but the Rocky Roos were not part of that group. Fifteen rigs headed to Aspen Acers for a fun filled Oktoberfest from September 25-28 2008. Our Wagon masters were Ted and Rita Witzel, Ted in his lederhosen and his very special German hat, welcomed us with the help of Lyle and Pat Crouse, Lyle also in lederhosen. It was a welcoming sight to remember! Philip and Bea Boyd joined us from the Texas Bluebonnets; we were so pleased that they are now also Rocky Roos members. As the rigs arrived they handed over all kinds of soup for our “Dump Soup” meal. We even got a picture of Shasta the dog driving the rig in. The Hoppy Hour was held outside at the pavilion, as they headed into the large room that had been decorated in Oktoberfest decorations and polka music playing, with a wonderful fire going in the fireplace you were ready for soup. The evening was spent trying to figure out “Who did this job?”It was fun hearing from the people on some of the very interesting jobs that they did in the past. Some stayed to play card games others were tired and headed to their rigs. Friday morning found those who needed their coffee early in the building enjoying a hot cup of coffee and a great fire in the fireplace. The breakfast bell rang at 9 AM as the hosts had prepared a Bavarian farmers breakfast. The day was set a side for trips that included a trip to Bish6

ops Castle; someone said I think all the Rocky Roos are here! Some said fishing was good at the lake. The evening Hoppy Hour was again held at the pavilion, after which we again enjoyed a fire in the fireplace and a meal prepared by the hosts. The evening was spent being entertained by Steve Gilbert and his “Girls,” Joy, Karen and Vicki. The evening would not be complete if we did not have Carol do the rabbit song. After the singing we enjoyed pie and ice cream, again some stayed for games, others headed back to check out how the debate for president was going. Saturday morning the breakfast was potluck we did not run out of food! The business meeting was held after the breakfast, followed by tech talk led by Ted, and Vernette held a class on scratch art and some painted their pictures that they had begun at the June rally, they were spectator. The day was spent enjoying the weather; games were set up, but most just enjoyed sitting and talking. Soon the clouds came up and it started to rain so Hoppy Hour was held inside with a roaring fire going. A German dinner that was prepared by the Witzel’s and after dinner Ted and Rita changed into their German clothes. Ted gave us information on how the Oktoberfest got started, and then it was time to dance and enjoy the Oktoberfest celebration. Followed by, yes, more food Sunday morning coffee and rolls supplied by Pikes Peak Traveland were served followed by devotions.

The Great River Roos (MN, IA and WI) By: The Swensons, Roebers and Zahns Our September 19-21 rally was held at Camp Fairbo in Faribault, MN. The occupants of 23 rigs were present to enjoy the festivities and camaraderie. We started the visiting on Thursday with the arrival of 12 rigs. Friday morning some of the men went golfing and the ladies had lunch at the Sportsman’s Bar and Grill in Medford, MN. After lunch, a stop was made at the Russell Stover Candy Outlet Store—yum! That evening chili and fixins’ were enjoyed with root beer floats for dessert and then many gathered around a great campfire. Saturday started with a potluck breakfast buffet and coffee. The rest of the day everyone was free to do as we wished. Horseshoes, Mexican train dominos and other activities were enjoyed. Chapter members Richard and Marilyn Fruit, Chuck and Diane Grabow and Margaret Banitt with her daughter Brenda, visited on Saturday. That evening we had a cookout with members providing their own food for the grill and the hosts prepared the rest of the meal. Another campfire gathering completed the evening. (Continued on page 7)

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Chapter Happenings (Continued from page 6)

Sunday morning rolls and coffee were served as the good-byes were said. We really enjoyed the weather and the campground along with the friendliness of the owners and staff.

Western Region Desert Bounders (Riverside, San Bernardino & Imperial Counties, CA) By: Denise Torchia Our returning President and First Lady, otherwise known as Jim and Janet Ramberg, treated us like royalty on this first camp out of the season. As hosts they did all the cooking, decorating and planning to perfection. It was great to be together again after the long, hot summer. The Club (Re-Installed) its officers as there were no challengers to last year’s officers and everyone was willing to stay in office: President-Jim Ramberg, Vice PresidentBob Spalding, Secretary-Denise Torchia, Treasurer-Debby Telling, Wagon Master- Patsy Alexander, and National Director-Carmine Baffo. We missed Jim and Shirley Portzer who are still in Sparks, Nevada, but will be back with us in November. Shirley had surgery this summer, replacing her aortic valve, and is doing cardiac rehab and says she is happy to be feeling really good again. Larry and Debby Telling were not with us this month either. Larry had knee replacement surgery this summer and was rehabbing when he began having some problems. After a ride to the hospital in an ambulance he got a stint installed to remove a blockage and is now back at home in recovery mode. Also missing were Bob and Gen Munson; Bob was feeling a little tired after their summer trip to Oregon and we hope he’ll be rested up enough to create a stir next month. Merlin and Ruth Hoyt have relocated to Santa Ana and we hope they’ll get to come and visit us real soon. Manny and Betty Tachera had a very full summer and will catch up with us in October. John and Shirley Walker have just returned from a trip east and from all indications they are well and had a great trip. Sandy and Shirley Levinson are still on the road and will be heading to the Tucson Rally next month along with Carmine and Minnie Baffo and John and Shirley Walker. We are sure they will have a great time. The Club celebrated lots of birthdays (Sandy Levinson, Jim Portzer, Peggy Mayer, Ruth Hoyt, Merlin Hoyt, Jim Ramberg, Charlene Waller, Minnie Baffo, Shirley Walker and Roger Marquis) and anniversaries (Hoyts, Schroeders, Portzers, Spaldings and Walkers). Happy Everything fellow Desert Bounders! And as if that weren’t good enough we gained new members. A huge welcome aboard to Bill and Judy Mace NOVEMBER 2008

and to Bob and Darlene Beckel. They are a great addition to the Desert Bounders. Be safe in your travels and stay well and happy until we see you at Pine Ranch in Banning Oct. 31 - Nov. 2. A million thanks to Jim and Janet Ramberg for a great camp out. We’ll clean up after you anytime!! We all had a great time.

LaBounders (Orange County, CA) By: Althea and Ron Galletti The rally was hosted by Ron and Althea assisted by Frank and Sandy. Everybody arrived on Thursday, and we went to the Santa Yanez Casino for dinner; prime rib for $4.95. It was a great meal and the price was great. Most went shopping and wandering off on Friday in Julian, then we had heavy snacks and a game of Mexican train to conclude the day. Saturday we had a fine breakfast, courtesy of the wagonmasters. It also was a day of Bluegrass Festival and shopping. We had dinner with BBQ and potluck, the day was concluded with a game of hand and foot. We had breakfast on Sunday, and a couple of rigs went home. The rest of us enjoyed a brunch at the Casino, a 2-for-1 deal and it was delicious. The rest of us went home on Monday.

OR-E-GUN Bounders (Oregon) By: Bob Flugum There were nine rigs, plus the Lettenmeiers, who attended the September campout at Foster Lake RV Resort. The Lettenmeiers stayed in a cabin at the resort called "10 Downing Street." It was a rustic experience they'll not soon forget. Friday evening the group had a tasty dinner at the Point Restaurant next door to the campground. After dinner some relaxed and others played Ponytail Canasta. Pancakes and fresh fruit prepared by wagon masters Bob and Barbara Flugum, assisted by Earle Quinlan, greeted everyone in the club house on Saturday morning. A business meeting followed breakfast after which each went their way; most of the group were glued to their TVs as it is football season. Saturday evening we stuffed ourselves with all the food at the potluck. Games continued again after dinner. Sunday morning everyone enjoyed scones and coffee cake, and we said our good-byes until we meet again.

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Mike Thompson’s RV Super Stores BS 17--05

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Chapter Happenings (Continued from page 7)

Outward Bound’rs (San Fernando Valley, CA.) By: Pauline Hamann It was a perfect weekend for an outing at Flying Flags RV Resort in Buellton, especially since the nearby Danish Village of Solvang was celebrating their annual Danish Days Festival. We were so very happy to escape the heat and humidity of the San Fernando Valley for the weekend of September 19 – 21, that 13 Outward Bound’rs rigs traveled north up Highway 101 along the very beautiful California coastline on the way to Buellton. Joining us for the weekend were full-timers Eric and Jan Dickey along with guest Mary Ann Hall and her mother Della from Lake Forest. Our weather was perfect as we enjoyed warm breezy days and cool evenings. Our Wagon Masters for this outing were Jack and Kathy Caldwell who greeted each one of us as we arrived and gave us an ice cream cone treat. Thank you Jack and Kathy! You always arrange a terrific outing. Eight rigs arrived on Thursday and after getting settled, it was decided to go to A. J. Spurs for dinner. This is a very favorite Thursday evening destination for us. The service is great and the food is wonderful, especially when it is topped off with a root beer float for dessert. Everyone was on their own for Friday breakfast. Some chose to drive into Solvang to have a Danish breakfast to begin their weekend. Solvang was beginning to bustle as the celebration of Danish Days was beginning. There were lots of events to go to, parades to watch, Danish pastries to eat and many shops to check out. During the day the remaining seven rigs arrived. It was so good to see each other again and meet our guests. Friday night we gathered at the Wagon Master’s rig for hearty appetizers and those wonderful margaritas made by our Slush Masters. Saturday morning we went to the club house for a “just right” continental breakfast provided by our Wagon Masters. A Chapter meeting followed. The rest of the day was open for each to seek their own pleasure, whether it was touring the many wineries in the surrounding areas, visiting the small nearby towns or going into Solvang for the festivities. Saturday night we had an outstanding pot luck dinner in the club house. Afterwards, a few of our members went to visit around our campfire and the rest played Pass the Aces, which was won by Marilyn Shearman. (She won last month too.) The 50/50 drawing was won by Sharon Houston. (She won last month too.) Sunday morning we prepared to leave for home. A few of our lucky members were staying over extra days. Next month we are off to Oceano and then a few of us will head for the National Rally in Tucson. NOVEMBER 2008

Re-Bounders (Northern California) By: Rhonda Williams The Re-Bounders spent June 5-8 at the Aurora RV Park on beautiful Clearlake. The weather was perfect. Our wagonmasters were Jack and Pat Vossler and Don, Cil and Sheila Nelson. We enjoyed playing our favorite game, ‘Kangaroo,’ while sitting lakeside. Our wagonmasters provided us with a hot dinner and that was quite a feat, since there was not a stove in the clubhouse. They did it on propane cookers. Good job! Nonie Avila presided over a craft project of making colorful fish out of CSs to hang from our awnings. The weekend of August 28 to 31, nine rigs met at the Bodega Bay RV Park in Bodega Bay, CA. Our wagonmasters were the Joske’s and the Sharp’s. We had beautiful weather at the ocean. It was a very lazy weekend with the normal good friends, food and fun. We were very happy to have Bill and Kay join us for the weekend. On July 5th, they were hit, head on, by a drunk driver; there were very lucky. Thank God for airbags, seat belts and a heavy, solid car. As of this writing, we have six or seven rigs going to the rally in Tucson. We are all looking forward to it. We will be getting together again in two weeks at the Flag City RV Park in Lodi, CA.

Re-Bounders (Northern California) By: Rhonda Williams Flag City RV Park in Lodi, CA, was the site of the ReBounders latest outing. There were nine rigs in attendance. The RV Park arranged to have Van Ruiten Vineyards set up wine tasting for us. It was a very nice presentation and enjoyed by all. Geweke RV of Lodi sent out one of their service specialists to the park for any small repairs or concerns we might have. They also offered us $10 worth of free propane. It is great to see some genuine customer service from a dealership. So far we have six rigs going to the rally in Tucson. We are looking forward to it. This was our last outing for the year. We will all be getting together for our Christmas Party at the home of Pierre and Maryse Joske. We would like to thank our wagonmasters, Verne and Nonie Avila and Leo and La Rae Lefor for a great time. We played some fun “mind” games and the food was great! See you in Tucson. (Continued on page 10)

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Chapter Happenings (Continued from page 9)

Silicon Valley Joeys (East Bay and central CA) By: Annett Suess The Silicon Valley Joeys held their August campout from Friday evening, August 22 through Sunday noon, August 24, 2008 at French Camp RV Park in Manteca, CA. We had 14 rigs in attendance, including 10 current Bounders members and four “Bounder Buddies.” Wagon masters were Bill and Arlene Perrin. We gathered in the campground’s meeting room on Friday evening for conversation and shared appetizers, after which, some went swimming or enjoyed relaxing in the hot tub at the pool. Saturday morning’s continental breakfast was followed by a brief business meeting. Chapter president Arlene Perrin announced she could no longer continue as president. Toni Collins was elected our new chapter President. Don Renk is Vice-president. Annett Suess has taken on the newsletter and campout announcements. Jean Blackburn has agreed to be our Bounders United National Director. Penny Foster will continue with her excellent job as treasure. On Saturday evening, we all put on our flower leis, Hawaiian shirts or dresses and enjoyed a Hawaiian Luau Dinner with Mai Tai cocktails, sweet and sour chicken, sweet and sour sausages served with rice, an assortment of side dishes and salads. We were joined by Lloyd and Judy Burnthorn as dinner guests, they are past Joeys members. After dinner some of the Joeys and buddies stayed at the clubhouse for card games. Sunday morning brought coffee, rolls and good-byes.

clubhouse, the observation tower overlooking the driving tracks, the pool and spa, and the exercise rooms. It offers a driving school that teaches owners of corvettes and other high-powered cars to operate them in a safe manner on public roads. The country club currently has 240 members, several of whom rent the on-site garages to store their high-powered vehicles. The students at the driving safety school are entitled to use all the facilities while at their 3-day course. The staff is willing to give any group or individual a tour at any time. All it takes is a phone call to set it up. The facility is still expanding to include more garages with apartments attached and an 80-room hotel. Our outing was four days after a shoot-out in the Park between the Nye County Sheriffs Office (NCSO) and a resident of the RV park. We were parked just four spaces from the shooter’s trailer. The shootout was the result of a domestic dispute and occurred in the middle of the night. A NCSO deputy was ambushed and shot in the back three times but had a Kevlar vest on. He was airlifted to the trauma center in Las Vegas and is home recovering. Needless to say, the local events added much conversation and excitement to our outing.

WEBFOOT ROOS (Washington State) By: Jan Madson Our September 10-14 rally was held at Yakama Nation RV Park at Toppenish, WA, which is in eastern Washington. This Park is huge and is on an Indian Reservation run by the Yakama Indians. Their name is spelled slightly different than the town of Yakima that is 18 miles north of Toppenish. (I don’t know if the town was named after them and just misspelled or if there is any relevance).

So. Nev. Dam Bounders (Nevada) By: Liz Fiske Our September outing was three nights at Terrible’s Lakeside RV Park in Pahrump, NV on the 23rd through the 25th. Several of our members were off caravanning with the Ramblin’ Roos, so we had only four rigs. But we had a grand time visiting, eating and seeing the local sights. The highlight of our outing was on Wednesday when we had lunch at Sheri’s Ranch (one of Pahrump’s two legal brothel/ resorts). The food was great and reasonably priced. The resort has beautiful grounds. We saw some of their specialty rooms; however, the girls’ bedrooms are private. That afternoon, we all trooped over to Spring Mountain Motor Sports Ranch, which is a driving safety course and a motor sports country club (one of only four in the U.S.). They toured us around the facility that included the new 10

(Continued on page 16)

Bounder Sounder

Bounders United use only Member No._____________________ Date Rec’d______________________ Amt. Rec’d______________________

Membership Application

Check No._______________________

( ) New Member ($35 USA / $42 Canada) ( ) Data update only – Member No. ________ Fees to be paid in U.S. dollars. Expiration Date _______________ Pilot _____________________________________ Co-Pilot __________________________________ First Name

MI

Last Name

First Name

MI

Last Name

Address ______________________________________________________________________________ Number and Street

______________________________________________________________________________ City

State/Province

Country Zip/Postal Code

Telephone _(_____)_________________________ Cell Phone _(_____)_________________________ E-mail Addr. ______________________________ E-Mail Addr. ______________________________ Pilot

Co-pilot

Occupation _______________________________ Occupation ________________________________ Was / Is

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May we share your information with BU Chapters in your area? Yes ___ No ___

Hobbies ______________________________________________________________________________ Would you be interested in volunteering to help in Bounders United?______ Yes (You will be contacted later) How did you hear about us? Advertisement _______________ Dealer ________________ Fleetwood Packet ________ Friend / Other BU Member: Name _____________________________ BU# ___________

I/We hereby apply for membership in Bounders United, Inc. and shall abide by the Constitution and Bylaws of Bounders United, Inc. and that I/we presently own a Bounder motorhome. Year __________ Model ___________ (Please notify the Secretary of any changes)

Applicants’ Signature _________________________ __________________________ Date _______ Pilot

Co-Pilot

The initiation fee, in addition to the cost of processing your membership, includes: Membership ID Card, Bounders United Logo Decal, and BU Number Decal. (Constitution and Bylaws are available upon request.) All payments must be in U.S. Funds. Make checks payable to Bounders United and mail to: Please allow 2 to 4 weeks for Processing

NOVEMBER 2008

Bounders United, Inc. 216 Derecho Way Tracy, CA 95376-1945

(Rev. 090108)

11

Bounders United, Inc. Hi Fellow Bounder Owner We noticed that you do not have a Bounders United number on your rig.

Are you aware that BU is a social club Exclusively for Bounder owners? We would like to extend a warm invitation to join us and other Bounders United members for the fellowship, adventure, fun and camaraderie of rallies, caravans and special events all over North America. Here are a few of the benefits YOU gain by joining Bounders United: A whole new family of friends Your own Bounders United number decals for your coach A periodic Membership Directory Monthly Bounder Sounder magazine Special club logo merchandise Special privileges, benefits and opportunities Regional, state and local outings and get-togethers Fun-filled Chapter rallies throughout the year An annual National Rally that moves from coast to coast If you would like further information about Bounders United, drop a post card with your name and address to: Bounders United, Inc. 216 Derecho Way Tracy, CA 95376-1945 Or you can send the same information by E-mail to: [email protected] Or come visit with us at Site #_____. We would like to meet you. Cordially, ____________________________ BU# _______ Check our Web Site at WWW.Bounder.net for further information including a list of local chapters.

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Bounder Sounder

Creative Cooking By Bob Miller, Culinary Editor E-mail: [email protected] With summer and fall behind us, it is time for some indoor cooking. Let us start out with a terrific recipe I received from Margaret Bannitt of The Great River Roos that I would like to share with you. Speaking of cooking, someone suggested that I have recipes that are cooked in the Bounder; well, every recipe that my wife or I put in this column have been cooked in there. In fact, we have been living full-time in a Bounder since 1992. Another suggestion was designing meals for two people. Here are some hints that will help you adapt recipes for two and increasing portions for more. Serving portions per person: meat, 4 ounces; potatoes, baked, 1 medium; French fried, 4 ounces; mashed, ½ cup. Vegetables; ½ cup (about 3 ounces). Lettuce, ½ cup. Salad dressing, 2 tablespoons. Pasta, cooked, 1 cup. Bread, 2 slices. Cheese, 2 ounces. Fruit,½ cup. Soup, 1 cup. Chili, 3/4 cup. PORK AND BEAN CAKE - from Margaret Banitt 1 16 oz. can Pork & Beans, drained, pork removed 1 cup crushed pineapple with juice 2 cups sugar 2 cups flour 2 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp salt 4 eggs

2 tsp soda 1 cup vegetable oil

Beat the beans and pineapple with hand mixer until completely liquefied. Mix other ingredients into beans and pineapple. Pour into 9 X 13 inch greased pan. Bake at 350 F for 35 minutes. Frosting: 1 cup sugar, 6 T milk, 6 T butter. Boil until sugar is dissolved, remove from heat. Stir in 1 cup butterscotch chips. Stir until all chips are melted. Spread on cooked cake. Enjoy! QUICK-EASY-CRUNCHY ONION CHICKEN 1 C. French’s French fried onions, 1/2 lb. boneless-skinless chicken breast, 1 large egg. Crush onions in a plastic bag. Transfer to a dish. Cut breast in strips. Beat eggs in a bowl. Dip chicken into egg. Coat with onion crumbs. Bake 20 minutes at 400 F until cooked through. Serves 2. APPLE-TURKEY BURGERS 1/2 lb. ground turkey beast 1/2 tsp. poultry seasoning 2 slices extra sharp cheddar cheese 2 sandwich size English muffins

2 scallions, chopped 1 T. olive oil 1/4 C. cranberry sauce 4 leaves Romaine lettuce

1/4 C. chopped parsley 1/2 apple cut in 6 slices 1 T. honey Dijon mustard

Mix turkey, scallions, parsley and seasoning. Form into 2 patties. Heat oil in large fry pan. Cook patties 4 minutes, turnover and cook another 2 minutes. Top each with 3 apple slices and slice of cheese. Cover pan until cheese melts. Mix cranberry sauce and mustard. Spread on top 1/2 of muffin. Pile 2 leaves lettuce on bottom half. Add patties on lettuce and top with other muffin half. Serves 2. WOKING PINEAPPLE PORK 1/2 lb. pork tenderloin 1 (8 oz.) can pineapple chunks 1 T. soy sauce 1 T. Grated fresh ginger 1/4 lb. whole medium mushrooms, stems removed 2 scallions, cut in 1 inch pieces 1 C. cooked long-grain and wild rive

garlic clove, smashed 1 T. olive oil

Cut the pork tenderloin in 1/2 inch thick chunks. Drain pineapple. Remove about 14 of the pineapple chunks. Coarsely chop these and set aside. Mix pineapple juice, garlic, soy sauce, ginger and oil in sealable plastic bag. Add the port and scallions. Let marinate 1 hour in the refrigerator. Heat a wok or heavy fry pan over medium-high heat. Remove pork chunks from marinade. Add to wok with whole pineapple chunks, mushrooms and scallions. Cook the mixture until golden and cooked through, about 10 minutes. Toss occasionally. Remove the scallions from the wok and stir into the cooked rice with chopped pineapple. Divide pork chunks, pineapple chunks and mushrooms on two plates. Serve with rice combo. If it is still nice outside and grilling weather, try this’ alternately thread the pork chunks, pineapple chunks and mushrooms on two 10 inch skewers and the scallions on another skewer and grill for 10 minutes. Serves 2. HAMBURGER STEAK BAKE 2 slices bacon 1 tsp. chef’s herbs 1/8 tsp. pepper Green bell pepper 1/3 C. grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 lb. very lean ground beef 2 medium red potatoes 1/2 tsp. savory 1 (10-3/4 oz.) can tomato soup

1 T. Worcestershire sauce 1/4 tsp. salt small onion 1/2 can water

Preheat oven to 350 F. cook bacon in 9 inch square oven proof dish in oven until crisp. Remove bacon. Crumble and set aside. Mix beef, Worcestershire and herbs. Form into steak to fit dish leaving 1 inch on all sides. Bake each side 5 minutes. Remove meat and set aside. Wash and slice potatoes. Spread over bottom of dish. Season potatoes with salt, pepper and savory. Slice onion and 1/3 cup of bell pepper. Separate onion rings and cut pepper slices in half. Remove membrane and seeds from pepper. Layer onion on potatoes, followed by green pepper. Return steak to dish. Mix soup and water. Pour over meat. Sprinkle with cheese and crumbled bacon. Bake 30 minutes. Serves 2. Please send your recipes to me at; 2905 N. Montana Ave., PMB 9, Helena, MT 59601-0562

NOVEMBER 2008

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Beaudry RV BS 08-06

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Bounder Sounder

Bounder Classified 2004 Bounder 35E Workhorse, 2 slides, lg 4 door refer, rear shower, excellent storage, huge pantry, 3 Fantastic fans, Banks Power Pack, Safe-T-Plus, Davis True Trac, MotoSat antenna, inverter & water pump upgraded. Koni shocks, lighted steps, CB, awnings all around, custom windshield covers, clean as a pin. NonSmokers, no pets, 28K miles. Has had Mobile One since new. Death in the family. $75,000. Call Joe McDermott 520-298-3492; can be seen in Tucson.

2002 Bounder 40ft Diesel, 300 Cummins/6 Sp Allison. 62,000 miles (just broke in). One large slide, fully equipped with back-up camera, leather interior, surround sound, DVD player, VCR and two TVs; washer/ dryer, side-by-side refrig, lg microwave/convection oven. Good condition except for small rock damage from road. Contact Pat Simerson 707-459-1997 or 707-462-6613 ext 253 (work).

2000 Bounder 36S, 47,854 miles,1 slideout, extras, clean, non-smokers, $40,000. Rolla, MO off I-44. Call anytime 314-479-8321 or 573-265-5603. Bill/Luci Kinder.

NOVEMBER 2008

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Enclosed is my check for:

Bounders United, Inc. 216 Derecho Way Tracy, CA 95376-1945

( ) $30 for a non-member subscription to the Bounder Sounder only

(No articles received.)

( ) $25 for 1 year ( ) $45 for 2 years ( ) $65 for 3 years

Special Interest Chapters

Dues are to be paid by the 1st of the month following the date on your address label, and are to be paid in US funds. Please note any changes of address, telephone number or other data. Checks should be made payable to “Bounders United” and mailed to;

Some of us arrived on Wednesday and hit the local Legend Casino (on the reservation) for Wednesday night “steak night” at the buffet. On Thursday, the rest of the group arrived and we had brats and beans and other dishes for dinner. Each morning we met at the picnic tables for coffee and goodies. Friday we all headed for the Miner Café in Yakima for lunch and had “Miner Burgers,” huge monster burgers which are famous in that area. Some of us headed out Saturday morning for Chukar Cherries, the Hogue Cellars Winery and the Darigold Cheese Factory where we had lunch and a self-guided tour of the cheese factory. Saturday night we had a pot luck supper at picnic tables set up around our camp area and met for a short meeting to vote on the six new proposed changes to the By-Laws. Sunday morning we all met at the Heritage Inn (a restaurant in the RV park that is also run by the Indians) for Sunday brunch and then all headed home. It was another sunny, very warm weekend in eastern Washington.

DUES REMITTANCE FORM

(Continued from page 10)

Name: ____________________________________ BU # ________

Chapter Happenings

Where to Send What! Send all communications intended for the President of Bounders United to: James Ballard 1211 S. Western Skies Drive Gilbert, AZ 85296-4346 Email: [email protected] Send all Money, Applications, Subscriptions, Dues and/or Renewals, Invoices and other Financial Matters to the National Treasurer: Don Low 216 Derecho Way Tracy, CA 95376-1945 Email: [email protected] Phone: 209-835-7971 Send all Changes of Address, Directory corrections and Other Non-Monetary Matters to the National Secretary: Betty A. Schneider 42700 via del Campo Temecula, CA 92592-2157 [email protected] Send Bounder Sounder articles, Chapter Happenings, Coming Events and other articles for the publication to: Pat and Phyllis Towle 9915 W. Bell Road #435 Sun City, AZ 85351 Email: [email protected] Phone: (602) 499-5818

For information on advertising and rates, please contact: Phyllis Towle 9915 W. Bell Road #435 Sun City, AZ 85351 (602) 918– 1306 Email: [email protected]

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Bounder Sounder

Letters to the Editor

Scholarship Applications will soon be available By: Anna Scharmann

No, we don’t have any—yet. According to something that we have heard, from The Good Book, no less, is that if you ask, you shall receive. We have asked but have received nothing as yet. Look at all the space going to waste. Good, bad or ugly, we would be happy to receive your letters —or e-mails—and we will put them in this column, maybe with just a bit of editing. So folks, send them to us. And thanks in advance.

?

College time has arrived again and members should be reminding your children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren that Bounders United scholarship applications will be available after December 1st for the 2009 scholarships. BU will again be awarding four $1000 scholarships to qualified applicants. So far, twenty-six students have been assisted in paying for some of their college expenses with Bounders United scholarships. With the rising cost of college expenses, every little bit of monetary help is welcomed. If anyone is interested and has a family member who qualifies, contact: BU Scholarship Chairperson, Anna Scharmann, (209) 823-5688 or [email protected]. If any chapter has extra monies in their treasury, donations are welcome. It is also a nice way to remember past members as a memorial. Thanks to many individual members and chapters for their donations. The scholarship has not cost Bounders United any money. It stands on its own and is self sufficient and maintained at no cost.

Wanted: Technical articles/writers; any subject that is Bounder related, especially the Ford, Workhorse and Diesel engines and chassis and of any manufacturer. Submit to: [email protected]

Reminder! DEADLINE FOR THE DECEMBER 2008 BOUNDER SOUNDER IS ON OR BEFORE

NOVEMBER 1 PLEASE SEND YOUR ARTICLES AND PHOTOGRAPHS TO [email protected]

NOVEMBER 2008

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Bounder Modifications Contributed by Juergen Cords BU 3495

Storage rack: I built a rack to fit the space above the valance in the bedroom and used Mollie type anchors to secure it to the wall. Before mounting, to the wall, I glued some material to the back of the rack to protect the wallpaper from damage.

Clothes hooks: What am I doing with my clothing at bedtime? I got some wood from Home Depot, varnished it, then added some brass hooks with brass screws and mounted them with wall anchors on each side of the bedroom.

Cup and glass holders: a nice piece of Red Oak cut to size, a couple of coats of varnish and a piece of non-slip material on the top. For the larger glasses, the caps of old spray bottles; for the others, PCV pipe and caps screwed down in the correct distance from each other. The glasses and cups are now handy, always clean and don’t make any noise when driving over our beloved potholes.

(Editor’s note: If you would like further information on these modification projects, you can reach Juergen at [email protected]. And if you have made any modifications to your Bounder, send us the instructions and pictures; we’ll be happy to use them.)

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Bounder Sounder

Coming Events When giving information for the "Coming Events," please give arrival and departure dates, name of campground, nearest city AND state and the full name of who to contact, area code, telephone number and E-mail address, if any. Include any special happenings during your rally.

Eastern Region NOV. 19-23, FLORIDA GULF COAST JOEYS, Lee Lynn RV Park, Polk City, FL. Contact: Janice Lovern 352-3821688 or Joan/Terry McDonald 941-722-9464. DEC. 6, BUCKEYE BOUNDERS, Christmas Dinner, noon at 94th Aero Squadron, Columbus (OH) Airport. Contact: Ken/Mary Keller 614-885-4904 or [email protected] DEC. 6, CAROLINA GUROOS, Christmas Party at Golden Corral, Mooresville, NC, 1 PM. Contact: Bill/Barbara Edwards 704-664-2096. DEC. 6, TRI-STATE BRIGADE, Christmas Party, Gio’s Restaurant, Weirton, WV. Contact: Vince/Lorraine Soplinski 724-729-3641. DEC. 11-14, GA GOOBEROOS, Sugar Mill Plantation Campground, Thomasville, GA. Contact: Harold/Carolyn Kelly 229-246-8246 or [email protected] by 12/1. 2009 FEB. 5-8, FLORIDA GULF COAST JOEYS, Olde Mill Stream, Umitilla, FL. Contact: Doug/Jeanette Lorimer 321724-9614 or Nancy/Bob Waller 352-315-1785. FEB 26—MAR 1, CAROLINA GUROOS, Wild Frontier Park, Ocala, FL. Contact: Dean/Gail Foster 704-483-5399 for reservations. MAR. 19-22, FLORIDA GULF COAST JOEYS, Lazy Days Rally Park, Seffner, FL. Contact: Phil/Sue Hanson 321-454 -3823 or Nancy/Dean Londo 321-452-8752.

Wilcox 715-386-9138 by the Wednesday before. DEC. 13, THE GREAT RIVER ROOS, Christmas Party, The Machine Shed, Lake Elmo, MN. Happy Hour 11 AM, lunch at noon. Contact: Mel/Naomi Houle 651-464-2464 or Tom/Sue Schnorr 651-777-2081. 2009 JAN. 17, THE GREAT RIVER ROOS, New Woodbury Café, Woodbury, MN, breakfast at 11 AM. Contact: Millie Wilcox 715-386-9138 by the Wednesday before. JAN. 17-25, ROCKY ROOS, Quartzsite RV Show. Camp north of town on Hwy 95, MM 114-115 at Palmosa Rd, follow signs. Contact: Orv/Joan Stevens 303-588-4688. FEB. 7, THE GREAT RIVER ROOS, New Woodbury Café, Woodbury, MN, breakfast at 11 AM. Contact: Millie Wilcox 715-386-9138 by the Wednesday before. MAR. 21, THE GREAT RIVER ROOS, New Woodbury Café, Woodbury, MN, breakfast at 11 AM. Contact: Millie Wilcox 715-386-9138 by the Wednesday before. APR. 18, THE GREAT RIVER ROOS, New Woodbury Café, Woodbury, MN, breakfast at 11 AM. Contact: Millie Wilcox 715-386-9138 by the Wednesday before. APR 23, ROCKY ROOS, luncheon, Colorado Springs. Location TBD. Contact: Carol Givvens 719-598-9284.

Western Region OCT. 31-NOV. 2, DESERT BOUNDERS, Pine Ranch, Banning, CA. Contact: Dan/Denise Torchia 951-681-9131 or [email protected] NOV. 6-8, OR-E-GUN BOUNDERS, Hee Hee Illahee RV Resort, Salem OR. Contact: Frank/Gloria Alfano 503-2364006 or 503-805-3594.

APR. 16-19, FLORIDA GULF COAST JOEYS, Tropical Palms RV Park, Kissimmee, FL. Contact: Ward/Annette Billings 661-965-0275.

NOV. 7-9, DIABLO BOUNDERS, Camper’s Inn, Dunnigan, CA. Contact: Ray/Diane Uebner 530-888-8396.

APR. 24-26, BUCKEYE BOUNDERS, Mohican Adentures Campground, Loudonville, OH. Contact: Tom/Bettye Thieme or Richard/Shirley Spring

NOV. 7-9, WEBFOOT ROOS, Outback RV, Rochester, WA. Contact: Rosemary Paetz or Art Hedum 253-4750653.

Central Region

NOV. 14-16, OUTWARD BOUND’RS, Casa del Sol RV Resort, Hemet, CA. Contact: John/Kathy Dizon 805-4941345 or dizykalu1@verizon.

NOV. 15, THE GREAT RIVER ROOS, New Woodbury Café, Woodbury, MN, breakfast at 11 AM. Contact: Millie NOVEMBER 2008

NOV. 14-16, VAGABOUNDERS, Rio Bend RV Resort. 19

Coming Events (Continued from page 19)

Contact: Jim/Betty Schneider 951-676-5588. NOV. 13-16, SUN BOUNDERS, Distant Drums RV Resort, Camp Verde, AZ. Contact: Joe/Nancy Lupo 928-717 -1891. NOV. 21-23, DESERT BOUNDERS, Lake Park, Elsinore, CA. Group hosted. Contact: Patsy Alexander 951-7358842 or [email protected]

JAN. 9-10, DIABLO BOUNDERS, Casa de Fruta, Hollister, CA. Contact: Don/Shirley King 925-443-5977. JAN. 17-25, LaBOUNDERS, Quartzsite, AZ. Contact: Loyl Thomas for info and/or to volunteer. JAN. 16-18, OUTWARD BOUND’RS, Golden Village Palms, Hemet, CA. Contact: Charlie/Pauline Hamann 818 -248-3222 or [email protected]

DEC. 1-3, GOLD COUNTRY ROOS, Lodi Fair Grounds, Lodi, CA. Contact: Don/Terry Smith 916-484-6611.

JAN. 21-27, Kanga Roos, 88 Shades RV Park, Quartzsite, AZ Contact: Bob Scharmann 209-823-5688 or [email protected]

DEC. 4-7, LaBOUNDERS, Annual Holiday Party, Mountain Valley RV Resort, Hemet, CA. Contact: Frank/Mary Lynn Golson 714-345-7677.

FEB. 12-15, DESERT BOUNDERS, Lake Park, Elsinore, CA. Contact: Carl/Judy Schroeder 951-688-8572 or [email protected]

DEC. 5-7, Kanga Roos, 49er Trailer Village, Plymouth, CA. Contact: Jay/Ruthie Gohl 209-824-1111.

FEB. 20-22, BUCK-A-ROOS, “Do Phoenix.” Contact: John/Mary Furlong 520-748-8310.

DEC. 6, BUCK-A-ROOS, Holiday Party. Contact: Marlene/Richard Northup 623-975-5367.

FEB. 20-22, OUTWARD BOUND’RS, TBA, Contact: Elaine Gillituk 818-712-0328.

DEC. 11-13, SUN BOUNDERS, High Desert Park, Black Canyon City, AZ. Contact: Mike/Lyn Douglas 928-4270192.

MAR. 13-15, DIABLO BOUNDERS, Campers Inn, Dunnigan, CA. Contact: Jim/Nancy Pauly 510-581-2054.

DEC. 12-14, DESERT BOUNDERS, Lake Park, Elsinore, CA. Contact Carmine/Minnie Baffo 760-946-1448 or [email protected] DEC. 13, OUTWARD BOUND’RS, Holiday Party at the Knight’s home. DEC. 12-14, DIABLO BOUNDERS, Sugar Barge, Bethel Island, CA. Contact: Jim/Bene Alexander 925-458-4596. DEC. 12-14, VAGABOUNDERS, Pechanga, Temecula, CA. Contact: Chris/Claire Christoffersen 760-438-3396. DEC. 14, WEBFOOT ROOS, Holiday Party, Majestic View Estates Clubhouse, Orting, WA. Contact: Lu/Jim Wood 253-820-9737. 2009 JAN. 3-4, DESERT BOUNDERS, Lake Park, Elsinore, CA. Contact: Patsy Alexander, Wagon Master, 951-7358842 or [email protected] JAN. 7-11, LaBOUNDERS, FMCA, Riverside County Fairgrounds, Indio, CA. Contact: Gene/Doreen Jackson 310-325-7147. 20

MAR. 20-22, DESERT BOUNDERS, Lake Park, Elsinore, CA. Contact: Bob/Darlene Spalding 951-273-0389 or [email protected] MAR. 20-22, OUTWARD BOUND’RS, Emerald Desert RV Resort, Palm Desert, CA. Contact: Don/Mary Eisenhauer 818-360-1658. APR. 17-19, DESERT BOUNDERS, Emerald Desert, Palm Desert, CA. Contact: Larry/Debby Telling 760-2511627 or [email protected] APR. 17-19, OUTWARD BOUND’RS, Chula Vista RV Resort, Chula Vista, CA. Contact: Maylon Houston 818789-9626 or [email protected] APR. 20-24, BUCK-A-ROOS, Rocky Point, Mexico. Contact: Scott/Peggy Hackett 925-445-8921 or Mary Furlong 520-748-8310 or [email protected] APR. ???, LaBOUNDERS, Pine Ranch KOA, Banning, CA. Contact: Jim/Helen Barker.

Special Interest

Bounder Sounder

Onan Coach Care BS 107-04

NOVEMBER 2008

21

Tech Tidbits KEEPIN’ TRACK OF YOUR RV IMPRESS YOUR FRIENDS WITH A HOME BREW DUAL DIGITAL VOLTMETER! By: Joe Lupo, BU 10032 OK – so there are those who might (accurately) call me a data freak. I’m just not comfortable looking at monitor panels that display “LOW–MED-HIGH” readings, particularly when coach batteries run me almost $100 each. I am unhappy with tank reports that show both an EMPTY light, and HALF light, and nothing more. Well, I’m working on the tank level problem, and when I feel good about the results, I’ll send them along. For now, we have a nice simple project to present that will make you the proud parent of a dual voltmeter readout! The goal is to have one meter reading the voltage at the engine battery, and the other meter reading the voltage at the house battery. Thus, after a trip or two, when you get accustomed to the ‘normal’ voltage readings, it’ll be a lot easier to detect and prevent dead/damaged batteries before disaster strikes. I found that when dry camping, I can watch the house battery and, when it drops to 12.2 volts or so, I know it’s time to either shed some load or run the genny. Of course, having a handle on the engine battery condition can be critically important, particularly if that battery is aging. And, just to top it off, this can be a real chest-thumper at a rally.

‘Hey guys – check this out!! Did it myself, and it only cost about 40 bucks!! Naaaa, it wasn’t hard at all” Of course, you’ll need some tools, including a digital multimeter and a soldering iron. No special skills other than the ability to poke around behind the dash, and run a skinny wire to the battery compartment. You may have seen the meters – they’re available at a number of outlets – Camping World carries it, part number 19983, for about $17 each. The case came from Radio Shack, at $3.65 or so. For those folks who are creative, there’s plenty of alternate ways to do this. The route I chose was decided by the space available on my dashboard. In reality, I wanted to mount the meters above the fridge, but u-no-who quashed that in a big hurry – something about my lack of a decorator’s eye. Being a technical type, I felt the meters matched well the décor of the kitchen. Outvoted 22

Bounder Sounder

Tech Tidbits (Continued from page 22)

again. By the by, these little meters draw so little current that I leave them on 24/7 and have never seen any ill effects. Now, one of the things that you might check is that they are calibrated to each other. It really doesn’t make a difference if they’re a tenth of a volt off, but, to me, that was a critical thing. So, I compared them to a known good DVM, and adjusted the errant unit by tweaking the screw adjustment inside the case, accessed by removing the back cover. Once the tweaking is done, you need to remove the cigar-lighter plug from the meter assembly. You can remove the screw holding the barrel of the cigar-lighter together, and carefully take everything apart, or, you can just smash the plug to smithereens - the preferred method. Just be REAL careful – you need every millimeter of wire that comes out of the body and into the plug. Those with good soldering skills can replace the wires, but there’s enough supplied (JUST BARELY) to make it work as-is. Due to the short wires we have to work with, I mounted both meters to a project case from Radio Shack that fit the area where I’m mounting the unit. I’m sure anyone good with wood could make something fancier. It’s a good idea to choose the mounting location early in the project. All the connections to the meters need to be made right behind the mounting plate or box. We need, of course, to splice on wires which will connect from the meter to the batteries. It just ain’t real complex. One black wire (ground) and two red wires (one to each battery). The new black goes to the two meter blacks, and the other end connected under any screw on the metal frame around the dashboard area. Each red wire goes from a meter red to the positive terminal of one of the batteries. For safety’s sake, I strongly recommend wiring in a small (like ½ amp) in-line fuse at the battery positive end of each red wire. This is to protect the wiring we have added. Yes, I know, the battery voltage we need is available in a few places at the dashboard. In fact, I tied the red wires into what I thought were appropriate points at the dash early on. Then, testing the DVM readings against the actual battery readings, I found that there were differences, so I changed things a bit. When I ran the wire directly from the battery post to the DVM, as shown below, everything fell into sync, so to speak. To affix the meters to the mounting plate, a short strip of Velcro worked just fine. OK, all done. Keep it rollin’ and see you next month!

Joe

NOVEMBER 2008

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Bounder Sounder