By Donna Birt, F424542
November 2014
The Dixie Traveliers chapter of FMCA celebrated its 45th anniversary at a rally held August 22-24, 2014, at the Great Outdoors RV Resort in Franklin, North Carolina. The chapter’s executive board members served as hosts, and the campground donated a commemorative cake.
A special highlight of the rally occurred when three members were recognized and presented with lifetime memberships for their dedication and years of service to the chapter. The new lifetime chapter members are Charlotte White and Charlie and Marie Johnston.
Our vice president, Patricia Smith, conducted a candlelight memorial service to honor chapter members who died within the last few years. As their names were called, she lit a candle for each of them: Margaret Bartley; David Bullock; Bill Cisco; Dennie Massey; Juanita Morgan; Graham Morgan; Connie Reed; Hubert Reed; Howard White; and Ed York. The service ended with a special prayer.
When the chapter was founded, members were from northern Georgia, eastern Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina. At one point, the Dixie Traveliers had as many as 130 families. The current membership of about 40 families hails from Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida. While our primary scope continues to be the Southeast, all RVers are welcome to attend our rallies.
The chapter holds four rallies each year. In 2014, rallies have been in Galax, Virginia, and the North Carolina towns of Rocky Mount and Franklin. Our final rally of the year will be in Crossville, Tennessee, November 7-9, 2014. Members enjoy playing card games — card bingo and SYN are favorites — and board games, such as Fast Track. After each rally, chapter members and visitors receive a newsletter noting highlights of the event.
First-year dues are $45 per family, which includes name badges. After that, annual dues are $10 per family.
Many thanks to the original group of motorhome owners from North Carolina and adjoining states who were interested in forming a local chapter. Their fellowship and camaraderie has continued and grown for 45 years, and that has allowed many other families to form lasting relationships. Three new FMCA members attended our August rally, and they liked us so well they became Dixie Traveliers members. Check the FMCA calendar for information about future rallies. Come visit with us and see if we might be the right fit for you!