Escapades in Tucson, AZ

The Pima country fairgrounds in Tucson, AZ didn't know what they were in for when close to 900 rigs, 2000 hugging Escapes showed up for the 55th Escapades. Twenty five Shanty Shaker rigs made the journey, with several of them attending their first big rally. At the opening ceremony attendees were welcomed by the co-founder of the Escapees, Kay Peterson. What a delightful lady she is with quite a sense of humor.


“This was our first Escapades! We were so excited to go and REALLY had NO idea what to expect! We were overwhelmed with all the classes and after attending a few we had some thoughts: some classes were story telling, others for newbies, others there selling products. Out of all the classes we both took (we took separately and we went to a lot) we got a little something out of all  of them and a lot out of about 3-4 of the classes.We were able to purchase some things from vendors we had been researching and wanting. The only thing we didn't get is the driving class for Debbie! They were already full by the time she found where the people actually were.The biggest plus for us was, that we feel like we are starting to make friends. And we are excited about getting to know people in our Shanty Shakers group!” Submitted by Debbie Lupton

Mornings started with coffee and donuts.Then days were filed with informative seminars,  crafting, (Gene Stout and Dale Stauffer presented) exploring the vendor fair, drooling over the RVs on sale (just ask Rey and Loretta) or chatting with representatives of BOFs (Birds of a Feather: people who share a common interest) or other Chapter representatives on the Chapter row. Faith and Vern Foster represented Chapter 25



We received about 150 couples  signing our log and we gave out candy Hugs, taffy and butter fly magnet clips. Visitors were interested in information about San Diego we gave most of what we had away. We passed out membership application forms and shared the blog address. Here is a picture of the winner of the basket (sorry no names)  They were over joyed with winning the basket. (Thanks Frances for the donation!)  Submitted by Faith Foster
              
Every day at 4:00, the relaxing began with Happy Hours and pot lucks springing up all over the Fairgrounds. John and Debbie  hosted Taco Tuesday complete with Pollo and Carne asada grilled by several of the men. It was great fun.





One day there was a Pet Parade. San Diego was represented by Annette Stout and her dog Lady sporting their Charger jerseys. There were dogs of all shapes and sizes represented. (Lady was by far the cutest )
 

55th Escapades  in Tucson, AZ was our first escapade, we were known as "first timers” and we had to wear orange stickers that said “1st” on our badges. There were many aspects of the Escapade that were pretty much as expected: lots of rigs (800+), Escapers, seminars and the ever present vendors and RV dealers. What was not expected was how friendly and wonderful Escapees' are.  You guys hug a lot, I mean a lot and that orange sticker got us even more hugs.  That was not expected and took us by surprise, it made for a really great time!!As for the seminars and vendors, I took advantage of them and learned many things about the RV life style and new technology and gear to help us along the byways.  I had the mind set that the prices set by the vendors could always be bettered elsewhere, but perhaps I am wrong.  You see, my awning gave out on this trip, I priced the awning guys there and figured I could beat it at home.So far, I have not been able to better the price.  GO figure.  Chris liked the quilting ladies and enjoyed volunteering by helping with the projects and meeting some of the sweet ladies from all over the country.She also had a blast making chili for the “Chill Cook-off”, she raised just over $92.  I know now that Escapades are a good thing.  So, I say go to at least one event. Submitted by Dan Garcia

The Arizona sunsets are fun to watch and make for great photo ops




One evening during general assembly Travis Carr, grandson of the founders and his wife Melanie announced the launch of Xcapers, a branch within Escapees geared toward the younger, non retired generation of RVers. Great forward thinking by the club since statistics show that 80% of the club members are over 65. For more info LINK HERE

The chapter officers had a meeting with the National staff members from Livingston, TX. The main topic of discussion was the creation of the Escapees Social Network for the chapters as a non profit organization and reasons for it. Our chapter Treasurer, Wayne, was asked by the COO Teresa Moore for his assistance in answering questions due to his past experience in non profits and IRS regulations.
 
 
 





One of the best things about this rally was seeing new friendships forged among the chapter members. On the last evening the group gathered and seemed to want to linger together just a little longer.The rally was coming to an end and it was time to say good bye.....or until we meet again !! HUGS !!

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Minutes from the February meeting HERE

Photos by Walter Campbell