FMCA Chapters For Younger Members
This is in response to Matthew Siegel’s recognition that younger FMCA members are needed (“Readers Write‚ March 2023). That is a big . . . ABSOLUTELY! However, I think younger members should be encouraged to start new chapters that fit their needs. Chapters often have trouble finding hosts within their membership, and adding more frequency, kid-friendly activities, and weekend outings that tend to be more expensive will not improve that situation. Younger members who often camp together should consider forming a chapter together. Their needs can be met, and those of us who have worked hard to host and plan over the years can relax. We just don’t have the energy to do what you are requesting. It is nice that the international conventions have included more activities for the younger crowd.
― Pat Daubenmier, F434512
Dexter, Michigan
Help In Montana
On a recent trip to Montana, as we were traveling along Flathead Lake, our alternator belt snapped and the “stop the engine‚ light went on. We pulled over to the side of the road and, thankfully, we were only four miles from Bacon’s Mobile Truck Repair, located in Elmo, Montana. Brent came out and assessed the problem. He offered to order an alternator belt, which would arrive the following morning. Unfortunately, a forest fire that began that day resulted in the work being postponed, as evacuation orders were given for that area.
As it turns out, an employee, Kenny, stayed behind and was able to assist us. He suggested that if we could get a belt, he would be able to install it. We were finally able to locate a belt. However, Kenny, thanks to his diagnostic skills, discovered that the reason the belt snapped was an A/C pump that had locked up. The RV needed to be towed.
Unfortunately, it was difficult to find someone who could attend to our needs on such short notice. Kenny came to the rescue once again and was able to secure a spot for us at Northwest Truck Repair, a Freightliner truck facility in Kalispell, Montana, with a promise of immediate assistance.
We were in the midst of our travels and due to our engine issue, we already had to cancel several prearranged campground reservations and were eager to get on our way. Although they were booked solid, Northwest Truck Repair fit us in. When it was discovered that we had received the wrong belt, Northwest ordered the correct one and had it shipped overnight. We were able to remain in our RV while the repairs were being made and spent the night within their secured lot. They completed the repair, the job was done right, and we were on our way the next morning. The staff at Northwest Truck Repair (www.nwtruckrepairmt.com) is knowledgeable and super friendly, and they treated us so well. We also cannot express our full appreciation to them for fitting us in when they were fully booked.
In addition, we have a great deal of respect for Bacon’s Mobile Truck Repair (www.baconsmobiletruckrepair.com) and for Kenny’s super diagnostic skills, and especially for the incredible effort he made to get us back on the road.
Kudos to both of these repair services!
― Al Paschal & Ludi Kulihin, F399500
Sun City Center, Florida
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