PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

                                                   SPRING 2008

 

The 2008 Hobo Rally is now history.  2nd VP Judy Bechthold and 1st VP John Boutwell did an excellent job in coordinating the event.  Plans are now under way for the 2009 National Hobo Rally.  I want to personally thank each and every WBCCI member who assisted in making the Hobo a success.  Without volunteer help the Regions or International would be unable to provide the rallies that we all enjoy.  I also want to thank our neighboring regions for all their support and International Treasurer Lester Schmidt and his wife Mine for their attendance. Hopefully all that participated were acknowledged.  If we missed anyone the region does apologize.  As many of you may be aware, Kenny Kalian has been the manager of the Colorado Country Fairgrounds for the past six years.  Kenny has taken a new position with the State of California.  Kenny was always available to assist us in making sure our needs were taken care at the Fairgrounds.  The region wishes him well in his new position.  I was concerned as the contract for the Fairgrounds expired after the 2008 Hobo Rally.  With the help of Kenny and fairgrounds management, your region officers were able to negotiate a new contract through the year 2011.

 

The International Rally in Bozeman, MT is just around the corner.  It will be held at the Montana State University, site of past International Rallies.  President Collins and First Lady Marilyn have some exciting things in store for attendees.  The setting could not be better with all of the beautiful areas that abound in the area.  I want to extend a personal invitation to all Region 12 members to attend.  In that the rally will be held somewhat near our region, I would hope we have a good turnout.  One of the benefits of an International is having the chance to meet new friends from the United States and Canada.  Another benefit is the opportunity to volunteer to work on one of the committees that make up the operation of an International Rally.  It is amazing how much work goes into the planning and coordination of an International Rally.  As I mentioned earlier, volunteers are key to a successful rally whether it be at the Unit level, Region level or at the International level.  When you have a chance say thank you to someone you know that is a volunteer.  If you have not yet registered for the rally, please do so.  I know you will have a good time.

 

The Region 12 Rally for 2008 will be held at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds in Watsonville, CA from October 14 – 19, 2008.  The Santa Clara Unit is hosting the unit under the able leadership of Bob Stansbury.   The areas surrounding the Fairgrounds offer a variety of activities and places to visit.  Near beautiful Monterey Bay there is 17 Mile Drive, Carmel Valley, and the Monterey Aquarium.  Another exciting area is the Santa Cruz Boardwalk which has a storied history.  Agriculture is prevalent near the Fairgrounds affording visitors an opportunity to view agriculture at its best.  You might even be able to get a tour of a working farm.  Mark your calendars and plan on attending.  I know everyone who is working to make the rally a success will certainly appreciate your attendance.

 

I want to thank each of the units that have or are in the progress of updating their Constitution and By-Laws.  I realize it is a great deal of work but a necessary thing.  I also want to thank the seven units who applied for the Merit Awards given by International.  I believe we had more units apply this year than we have had in the past and for that I thank you.  I also want to remind Unit Presidents that are unable to attend the International Rally, an alternate may be appointed. It should be noted the alternate must have a letter authorizing them to vote at the Delegates Meeting.  The Region is actively seeking candidates for the position of Region 12 2nd Vice President.  The term of office would begin July 5, 2009 in Madison, WS, location of the 2009 International Rally.  Here is the chance to get involved and help to make our region better.   Remember, you don’t have to have been a member for years and years.  There are a lot of talented people in this region with many good ideas.  Let’s put those talents to work.  Speaking of talents, I want to thank Jack and Kathy Hampel of the Santa Clara Unit who created the Region 12 Bulletin Board.   Several months ago I spoke with Toscano’s RV in Los Banos and they generously agreed to provide space to display a region bulletin board.  The board will be installed the weekend of April 18, 2008.   When you are in the area, please stop by and view the Board AND don’t forget to tell Toscano’s thank you.

 

 

On behalf of Janice and myself I want to thank you for the support you have afforded us during the first year of my term as Region President.  Travel safe and we both look forward to seeing you soon.

 

Don Clark

Region 12 President