Family Campers and RVers Hold 51st Retiree Rally in Ala.

A scene from the rally in Douthan, Ala. (Photos: FCRV)

DEPEW, N.Y. – Since 1973, Family Campers and RVers (FCRV) has held two major rallies during the year – a winter Retiree Rally in a sun belt state and a summer National Family Campvention (since 1960) in a host state, according to a press release from the organization.

Eighty-five RV units attended the 2023 Retiree Rally after the 2020 and 2021 events were cancelled because of COVID. The rally was held at the National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds in Dothan, Ala, March 27-April 2.

Retiree King and Queen Phil and Joanne Rich of Greenwood, S.C.

“Back on track this year, the usual activities resumed,” the release stated. “One popular feature was the election of an International Retiree King and Queen to represent FCRV. For 2023, they are Phil and Joanne Rich of Greenwood, S.C.”

Although there were a few days of heavy rain the rally was spared from the tornadoes that devastated Mississippi to the north. The fairgrounds served boiled peanuts at the opening hospitality.

Kicking off the rally was a tour of nearby Fort Rucker Aviation Center of Excellence hosted by veterans.

Other activities for the week included games of all types including the ever popular beanbag baseball. Also offered were craft projects, seminars, pet parade, flea market, golf outing, hospitalities, on grounds bike rides, commercial vendors, professional evening stage entertainment, plus a talent show for members and door prizes.

There were two catered dinners plus separate “Hard Hat” and “Red Hat” lunches for men and women.

During the week, donations of food, cash, blankets and quilts were collected and contributed to the Dothan Rescue Mission. A memorial service with choir and chaplain was held for members who passed away during the year.

The final event was the “Parade of States” where groups carried their state flags across the stage. Chairmen for the rally were Ron and Reba Ray of Georgia, aided by National Retiree Directors, Dave and Linda Hennie of Ohio, plus dozens of volunteers and committee chairpersons.

Next year’s Retiree Rally is planned for the Mineola, Texas, Civic Center March 10-24. FCRV’s Summer Campvention is July 9-14 at Wayne County Fairgrounds and Expo Center, in Richmond, Ind. For information on FCRV activities and benefits go to www.fcrv.org.

FCRV was founded as National Campers & Hikers Association in 1949 and remains a non-profit organization with headquarters in Depew, N.Y. with chapters across the U.S.

Source: https://rvbusiness.com/family-campers-and-rvers-hold-51st-retiree-rally-in-ala/