By Janet Frey, F96957
August 2017
GMC Motorhomes International Convention
The GMC Motorhomes International chapter’s spring convention, held March 24 to 30, 2017, at Heart of Oklahoma Exposition Center, allowed members to revisit the past and enjoy the present. Not only did more than 100 GMCs converge on beautiful Shawnee, Oklahoma, for the event, but we were joined by RVers in four other vintage motorhomes: a 1989 Winnebago Spectrum 2000, a 1974 FMC 2900R, a 1984 Airstream 300LE, and a 1982 Revcon.
Before the official start of the convention, some attendees traveled by bus to the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum. It honors victims and survivors of the April 19, 1995, bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, which claimed 168 lives. The visit left us humbled and grateful.
In Shawnee, we made a trip to the Round House, a company where a combination of state-of-the-art machines and talented artisans create a full line of overalls in several types of fabrics — including good ol’ blue denim. It was a treat to see this iconic business, which opened in 1903.
We savored several catered meals that showcased the local cuisine. And, thanks to many area attractions, there was never a dull moment as members enjoyed the state capitol, museums, local eateries, and shopping opportunities. The consensus was that many friendly people populate this fun area.
Seminars and More
During the convention, many attendees took in seminars focused on maintenance and upgrades for our vintage GMC motorhomes. Hands-on activities included a driving course for women, coach weighing, and a clinic on aligning and adjusting the motorhome’s steering column. Other discussions dealt with tips for motorhome travelers and covered areas such as eating, exercise, and storing items. Also, a retired pharmacist decoded some of the mysteries of prescription medication.
Members made blankets for a local service organization, and enjoyed craft activities that provided a chance to be creative and meet others. The GMC Pineblock Derby featured finely crafted vehicles that looked like miniature GMCs speeding down a track.
Chapter members clearly enjoyed being together. The stars of the show, the vintage motorhomes, were on display during an open house, which gave everyone a chance to compare ideas and to see the creativity involved in keeping these 40-year-old vehicles on the road. Some attendees were considering the purchase of a GMC, and this was a great opportunity to check the motorhomes out.
FMCA national president Charlie Adcock and his wife, Gloria, participated in all the activities. They dished up ice cream, attended seminars, greeted members, and engaged in conversation. “We had a great time!” they proclaimed. It was a pleasure to have them join in the fun.
Next Convention
The chapter’s next convention will be in September in Elkhart, Indiana, where we will celebrate our 35th anniversary. If you own a classic GMC, consider joining GMC Motorhomes International. The chapter’s two conventions each year offer information about service and parts, and provide plenty of fun and fellowship. For details, visit www.gmcmi.com.