Should LTV Travel Clubs strive for diversity in Rally locations or plan repeat visits to RV Parks that exceed requirements and expectations? This is the question the Evergreen Leisures and the board are asking. We strive to achieve a balance. Our recently completed return to the Fidalgo Bay Resort in Anacortes, Washington, provides many examples of the benefits of revisiting a familiar location.
127 Evergreens enjoyed perfect Pacific Northwest weather from September 5 to 8. The Rally schedule was packed with activities, largely made possible by our familiarity with the area.
We began the Rally with a sequel to popular activities from last year, including a 20-mile bike tour of Guemes Island.
Our incredible Rally volunteers and raffle drawing winners were allowed to experience crabbing on Puget Sound. We shared our catch with attendees of the Sunday evening Potluck dinner.
Delicious Dungeness Crab complemented what others prepared (hint: stay that extra night!)
Evergreens Talent on Display
Once again, the Saturday night campfire and sing-along was a huge hit.
Information Sessions
Information sessions are just one reason LTV owners attend Travelers Club Rallies. We began with a presentation about RV travel to Mexico. Paul Beddows from Caravanas de Mexico presented on LTV exclusive trips. The talk was highly informative, covered the pros and cons, and Paul shared practical advice. Several Evergreens have signed up for January caravans.
In other sessions, Ryan from Johnson RV patiently answered everyone’s questions, and Bob shared the tool he uses for trip planning–a spirited discussion ensued.
New Activities in a Familiar Location
The board fully took advantage of what was learned from the first Fidalgo rally, held in the Fall of 2023. It was helpful that Jules and I live nearby in Mount Vernon. We tapped into the local community for three special activities that many called out as Rally highlights.
Friday Happy Hour
Russel from La Connors Skagit Cellars offered Evergreens a free sampling of five fabulous Washington Wines. The tastings were paired with a delightful cheese and fruit platter prepared by Jules and Caroline. Evergreens joyfully purchased their favorite reds and whites to share at dinner.
Speaking of Dinner
Johnson RV of Sandy, Oregon, provided and cooked us yet another delicious BBQ dinner; thank you, Chris, Mickey, Steve, and your amazing team. They cooked dinner for 120! Your support of the Evergreens is second to none year-round at our rallies.
After dinner, we were treated to a beautiful concert on the lawn. Local musicians Joe and Carol Young of the YoungKidz had us smiling ear to ear and singing along during a two-hour set of well-known favorites from Jimmy Buffet, Van Morrison, the Eagles, Billy Joel, Credence Clearwater, Cat Stevens, Paul Simon, the Doors, and many more. Not to mention a couple of originals. They struck the perfect note!
Even Pat, Fidalgo’s night security manager, was excited to hear more, allowing a second curtain call after “quiet hours” had begun.
There is no right answer to exploring new locations for Rallies versus revisiting proven popular locations. There is, however, no question that The Fidalgo Bay RV Resort and the surrounding area have much to offer. We will certainly return for a future rally.
Information Sessions Continued
On Sunday morning, attendees were educated by Jo Wolf, Director of the Skagit County Historical Museum. After living on the banks of Fidaldo Bay for several days, we were fascinated to learn about water’s all-important role in the history of Skagit County.
Acknowledgements and Gratitude
Many thanks to the special team who operates the beautiful and perfectly situated Fidalgo Bay RV Resort. The team is easy to work with, and the clubhouse is beyond compare. They are terrific.
Thanks to our volunteers led by our Volunteer Coordinator, Cynthia Muskin. Rally volunteers are the foundation for successful rallies—flawless execution with a smile.
Thank you to Triple E and Johnson RV–your generous support is greatly appreciated.
Welcome to the new volunteer board, which includes members Mike Lane, Treasurer Caroline and Yas Yoneda, and Steve and Carrie Heise. Welcome aboard!
Finally, a massive shout-out to our current board: Neil and Jules Nesenblatt, Bob and Brenda Schuetz, Tim and Patti Beyer, Phil Hartwig, and Cynthia Muskin. It is a privilege to work alongside you.
Written by Neil Nesenblatt
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