On July 10, 2021, during the Annual Membership Meeting in Gillette, Wyoming, FMCA national president Jon Walker recognized the 2021 recipient of the Robert L. Richter Award: John Seguin, F455062, from the California chapter. FMCA’s Executive Board voted to present him with the award. Bob Richter was FMCA’s founder and first editor of Family Motor Coaching (now Family RVing) magazine. The award recognizes an individual who is responsible for chapter newsletters and publications, and/or communications to and about an FMCA chapter.
John volunteered to become editor of the California chapter’s “Spot-Lite” newsletter, which has been published for more than 50 years, and gave it a face-lift. He redesigned the layout, including new artwork and other features, and incorporated additional articles and columns. He uses interviews, social media, and the internet to research content. In addition to producing the newsletter, John assists with special mailings sent out to chapter members.
During the meeting, it also was announced that the FMCA Executive Board voted to bestow the 2021 Kenneth T. Scott Pipe Dreamers Award upon Gary Bunzer posthumously. This award is named for FMCA’s first executive director, who worked tirelessly for the association, and recognizes an individual for exceptionally worthy or beneficial service to FMCA and its members. Gary played an integral part in the formation of the FMCA University and RV Basics educational programs; conducted numerous technical seminars at FMCA events; wrote extensively for the magazine; and trained technicians throughout the RV industry.
Gary’s wife, Debbie, was unable to be on hand in Gillette but responded with a letter, which read, in part: “FMCA always had a special place in his heart. He loved being a part of the family. And we want to thank you for the love and support you extended to Gary throughout his time being involved with you and the industry. His heart was always to love, listen, teach, and help those he was fortunate enough to be a part of. FMCA gave him many opportunities to do just that.”