Area Rally Clarification
The September 2010 issue of FMC (page 84) inadvertently listed two locations for the 2011 Northwest Area Rally. The rally will be held at the Linn County Fair and Expo Center in Albany, Oregon, June 2 “” 5, 2011.
FMC regrets this error.
Got Ideas?
If you. . .
have a clever suggestion for making the motorhome lifestyle more enjoyable (a maintenance hint, a do-it-yourself fix, a travel idea, etc.), consider sharing it with fellow readers in the Tech & Travel Tips column. For each tip selected for publication in the magazine, you’ll receive $25. Turn to page 22 of this issue for details.
If you . . .
read the Rear View column and sometimes think, “I had an answer for that question,” consider being a contributor. Each month we publish two questions that readers are asked to weigh in on for future issues. If we publish your answer, you’ll receive $25. Turn to page 128 of this issue to learn more.
If you . . .
would like to see a particular topic covered in Family Motor Coaching, let us know. We welcome suggestions for articles, Rear View column questions, etc. We might not have the resources to deliver on all of the suggestions, but we’ll do our best. E-mail: magazine@fmca.com; postal mail: Family Motor Coaching, 8291 Clough Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45244, Attention: Editor.
Classics Never Go Out Of Style
Dear Editor:
Thank you for the great article on the classic FMC coaches (“The Classic, Luxurious FMC,” August 2010, page 52). It was so nice to see the pictures of the families that own and enjoy these motorhomes. In many cases, older coaches represent the best value available, and young families represent the future of RVing.
We own a classic GMC and wrote “The GMC Motorhome: Still Cruising After All These Years” (October 2008, page 70). It resulted in some correspondence and renewed interest from people all over the country.
Jim & Audree Rowe, F169971
San Dimas, California
Great Times In Redmond
Dear Editor:
What is it about FMCA that makes it so great? Camaraderie.
During the Debbie Reynolds show at FMCA’s 84th International Convention in Redmond, Oregon, Debbie presented an outstanding program to a packed house. I mean, there was standing room only! It was a simple show, but the most incredible thing was happening. You could just feel the camaradarie and love generated by our membership “” not just to Debbie but to each other. FMCA members are so courteous and kind. Here I was in a huge crowd and knew very few of the people, yet I had the feeling I would like to know each one of them individually, and I know this feeling is mutual. It is just something we FMCAers experience and would love to share with all of the strangers in this world.
The next night I attended the Texas Tenors concert. There was a huge crowd and no one was turned away. These guys brought the house down with their vast talents. Again, the feeling of camaraderie within FMCA prevailed. Members were polite, courteous, and really absorbed the shows, which we have truly enjoyed.
There is nothing like the “afterglow” following a great FMCA convention.
Bob Smith, F122125
Milwaukie, Oregon
Brake Work In Sebring
Dear Editor:
While we were in the Sebring, Florida, area visiting friends and family and using our towed car “” a 2006 Honda CRV “” we heard a grinding sound coming from the right rear brake. We had passed a local automotive repair shop several times on our way to and from shopping and visits. I noticed that this shop was busy every time we passed it. I always prefer to use the local repair shop instead of the major chains, if I can find a good one. I found a gem.
It is Car-Medic Center at 555 U.S. 27 in Sebring, Florida. It is run by Mike Marrero and his wife, Yami. Mike is a certified ASE technician who can do it all “” major and minor engine and transmission repairs; brakes; and oil changes on imports, domestic, and European cars. He is also a certified diesel mechanic.
He took my CRV into the service bay and removed all four tires and evaluated my brake system. When he completed his evaluation, he took me into the service bay to explain what he had found and his recommendations. We discussed what work he would do, and then he made several phone calls to find the parts required and the best prices. While he was waiting for my parts to be delivered, I saw him do oil changes; perform a transmission flush; and check and recharge the air-conditioning system on a Type C motorhome. I spoke with several people, locals and snowbirds, who were also in the waiting room. Everyone said the same thing: Mike is a hard worker and does it right the first time. My brakes were repaired quickly, just as we had discussed, and the price was right.
Their motto is “Let our family care for your family,” and that is the service I received. If you are in the Sebring area and you need service on your car, truck, SUV, or motorhome, give Mike and Yami a call at Car-Medic Center: (863) 385-9898.
Gary & Sharon Main, F295445
Eliot, Maine
iPhone Guide To The Grand Canyon
Dear Editor:
I wrote an article for FMC about the Rail Runner train in New Mexico (“The Rail Runner Express: Albuquerque To Santa Fe,” February 2010, page 68). I recently wrote an iPhone guide to the Grand Canyon that your readers may be interested in as well. This app’s listings describe the North Rim and South Rim trails; viewpoints; how to get around on the park shuttle; bike rentals; dining; and shopping. Beyond the rim, attractions, activities, and dining make Flagstaff and Williams also prime destinations.
The app is available at iTunes stores, and it can be previewed at http://sutromedia.com/apps/Grand_Canyon_Flagstaff.
George Miller
Albuquerque, New Mexico
A Man Remembered
Dear Editor:
What a nice article about my dear friend R. Bruce Holcomb, who was a friend to everyone he met (“Former Midwest Area VP R. Bruce Holcomb Passes,” August 2010, page 22). He always promoted the values of FMCA membership. He also encouraged many of us from the Midwest Area to be involved in committees and offices of the association.
Speaking for all of us from the Midwest Area, Bruce will be dearly missed.
Nelson K. Stubbs, F107765
Henry, Illinois
Splendid Repair
Dear Editor:
Recently, the tub stopped turning in the 10-year-old Splendide washer-dryer in my motorhome. I guessed the problem was a broken belt, and the repair would be easy. I coaxed the machine out of its tight closet, and the belt appeared to be fine. The operating manual contained no information about how to contact the manufacturer, but the Web had a contact for Splendide washers. This company, Westland Sales, of Clackamas, Oregon (800-356-0766), provides parts and service for Splendide in America.
My call was answered by Ladall (Lad) Mooso, a technician who e-mailed me the information I needed and patiently talked me through diagnosing the problem. Eventually, I found that there had been a cascading failure involving three different components. Thanks to Mr. Mooso for his prompt, professional help. I could not have fixed the washer without it.
Horton Lain, F50602
Berlin, Maryland
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