Members and welcomed guests of the Texoma Travelers Club gathered for their 2024 spring rally in the historic town of Grapevine, Texas, on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. The participants began moving into their sites at The Vineyards Campgrounds and Cabins on Grapevine Lake, just a few short minutes from downtown Grapevine and its various specialty retail shops, interesting eateries and restaurants, and entertaining locales and museums.
During the following four days, rally attendees participated in group activities, technical discussions, and general fun and comradery. There were 48 LTVs with 97 owners from several states and Canada, 31 of whom were first-time participants.
With the previous night’s check-in and meet and greet completed, interested Travelers got out of their two-wheeled modes of transportation “early” Thursday morning, strapped on their biking helmets, and proceeded to one of the many local bikeways in the area. The weather was nice that morning, and the scenery along the way was even nicer. The 38 bikers spent about two hours riding along the trail, returning for lunch before gathering for the additional activities of the day.
That afternoon, attendees were treated to a great presentation and talk by Brandon Hensley and Ben Debayle of Pagosa Supply Co. Having been (and expecting to be again) an LTV owner in the recent past, Brandon was able to share his LTV experience, know-how, and tips and tricks regarding operation, maintenance, and modifications of a Leisure Travel Van. He and Ben talked about some of the exclusive items that the company has for LTVs, and they took suggestions for possible future products. With the close of this session, Travelers returned to their coaches for dinner and later reconvened for a casual evening of socializing.
The weather turned on Friday morning with temperatures dropping to the lower 50s/upper 40s, but that did not deter the day’s activities. The morning session started with detailed discussions of RV issues and solutions, with owners sharing their questions and answers to help better understand and solve situations they have experienced. For lunch, the Travelers were treated to hamburgers and hot dogs provided by Brant McKenzie and his crew from Vogt RV, a local LTV dealer. Later, the sun revealed itself, and temperatures warmed for the group photo.
Afterward, Darrell Heide from Leisure Travel Vans discussed current LTV news and upcoming trends, including a Q&A regarding owner issues. Also, Justin McBride, an RV technician with extensive LTV experience, provided his additional advice and tips regarding our coaches. The day ended with a club-catered meal and continued conversations and sharing.
It rained pretty much all day on Saturday, but that did not necessarily dampen the spirits of the heartily Texoma Travelers. At noontime, a large group boarded the Grapevine Vintage Railroad’s 1950s diesel engine and 1920s-era touring car to ride the Cotton Belt Route to the Fort Worth Stockyards.
While on board, the rail passengers witnessed (and participated in) a would-be train heist and payroll robbery, but the daring Deputy Maverick was able to apprehend the devious scoundrel Mustang Sally before she could make off with the loot. After a short time visiting the Stockyards, the group returned tired and wet, but ready for a good night’s rest.
Sunday morning was reserved for packing up and goodbyes. With the rain over, everyone appreciated the sunshine that accompanied their sendoff. Having enjoyed their time together, the Texoma Travelers Club members were looking forward to their upcoming Fall Rally to the Texas Hill Country, scheduled for November 2024 in Fredericksburg, Texas.
Written by: Chris Hayes
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