By Bill Mahaffey, F442236
Westex Chapter President
October 2017
WesTex chapter members experienced a bit more excitement than we expected this past spring. We were at the Mill Creek Ranch Resort in Canton, Texas, for a rally during the first week of May, with 17 coaches attending. Many of us were there early, having arrived the last week of April.
In our travels, we have learned to survive many scenarios, such as rain, sleet, snow, wind, and hail — but not tornadoes! We had the misfortune to observe four tornadoes cross our path on Saturday, April 29.
It is hard to comprehend the devastation and destruction they leave in their path. Major damage was inflicted on the city of Canton and neighboring communities. The storm caused deaths and injuries. A new car dealership was demolished; its vehicles were flung into the air and landed on Interstate 20.
Fortunately for our group, the tornado nearest us landed on one side of the RV park, jumped the campground, and landed on the other side. It traveled 51 miles as an EF3, which means wind speeds of 136 to 165 mph.
The WesTex chapter donated $1,200 to the relief effort of Van Zandt County, Texas. The money was used to aid in the cleanup and restoration of the area.
And, as it turned out, we did have a great rally with lots of sight-seeing, good food, and great fellowship!