Mini Rally in Southern CA

[Ray Davis]

A group of us will be getting together at the ORA in Rancho, CA (near Temecula) http://www.outdoor-resorts.com/rancho/index.html.

We will be gathering for the weekend of January 25-27. I'm trying to get a count now of those who might be interested in attending to reserve a block of sites at the ORA.

We would love to have anyone join us who might be in the area that weekend. Nothing special "planned" at the moment, except for hanging out and enjoying each other's company. But, things happen! :rolleyes:

If you think you'd like to join us, add to this thread. I'm going to contact the ORA tomorrow, but I'm likely able to add sites as we need.

Thanks,
Ray

ps: there's a good possibility that Harry might be able to join us, and we'll be doing some planning for the West Coast POG rally in May. We'd love to have your input/help !!!

[Petervs]

Well, the response has been underwhelming to say the least.

You can sign us up as a 95% sure to make it!

Might be a very fine rally with only two coaches, but more are certainly welcome.

[Ray Davis]

peter

Actually I contacted 15 local pog members. I am expecting 10 of them to come. 5 confirmed already. Glad to add you to the list. More info soon.

Ray

[Ray Davis]

Hi All,

Just a quick note about where we stand on the Rancho get together on Jan 25-27th. Steve Bennett (of California Coach Company) is trying to work some magic and get us a discount for those days, and possibly some free coupons for those who have never stayed there before.

He indicated that this deal is in the works, and there is no hurry yet to make reservations.

Here's where we stand count-wise:

8 confirmed
4 tentative (3 pretty solid too)
2 not coming
3 no response yet

So, I'm pretty certain will have at least 10 out there, maybe more.


I will let you know more as I hear details, and reservations are needed.


Thanks,
Ray

[Ray Davis]

PS: for others who may want to join us, but are concerned about the ORA vehicle policy. This one seems to be a little less restrictive than many ORA resorts. 5th wheels are allowed, and Class C's are allowed, but must be at least 26ft in length. I didn't see any age requirement in the listing.

We already a few non POG members coming to join us. Maybe we'll get some new members from this?

Anyone in the area at this time of year is invited to join us.


Thanks,
Ray

[mikedee]

Ray,
Put Mike & Dee Clark in the very likely category. I am in the middle of selling my company and ned to be flexible with my schedule.

[Ray Davis]

Thanks for the update Mike.


FYI, just wanted to pass on that I spoke with Steve Bennett today, and things are still in motion to get us a discount out at ORA for this weekend. He indicated he has another couple of families to come. Not currently Prevost owners, but potential upgraders!

So far, looks like 11 confirmed, and 5 tentatives.


Ray

[normancasson]

I'm also planning on being at the rally-in fact looking forward to it since I missed the rally in Branson.

I've never visited any ORA so naturally the chance of visiting one for free is even more enticing-someone tell me how I do that.

If I can be of some additional help please let me know.

Norm Casson

[rmboies]

I'm also planning on being at the rally-in fact looking forward to it since I missed the rally in Branson.
I've never visited any ORA so naturally the chance of visiting one for free is even more enticing-someone tell me how I do that.
If I can be of some additional help please let me know.
Norm Casson

Hey Norm, you will have a blast, no doubt! Do all of you realize that your little CA mini rally now has more coaches then our POGI ?? :eek: Hard to believe that we have grown so quickly........

[Ray Davis]

Norm,

Welcome aboard. I will put your name on the email list. I've just received coupons, and will posting a message about that shortly, with instructions. Stay tuned.

Ray

[Ray Davis]

OK, just a quick update to let you know about our spaces out at ORA Rancho. Steve Bennett has procurred 15 half-price coupons, good for up to 5 days for us. Steve has taken 6 of those (currently) for himself, and several guests that he has invited. I have nine coupons, which I am going to give to the (luckily) nine families who have already confirmed interest in going.

You are now free to call ORA Rancho and make reservations. When calling let them know you are with the POG or Prevost group. We've formally told them that our group is slated for arrival on Friday January 25th, leaving January 27th. We've also told them that a number of people want to either come early or stay late. I'm told there is plenty of slots at this time of year, so there should be no issues in arranging whatever time stay you'd like.

Please make your own reservations, and if you wouldn't mind, let me know when you've done so and also let me know what dates you're coming for. For people arriving early, perhaps we'd like to arrange some day trips? I'm open to suggestions.

Here's a list of the first 9 people who committed to coming, and I have a half-price pass for you. Please send me an email with your address, and I'll put these in the mail. When making reservations, it's probably helpful to let them know you have the coupon.

(C) Ray and Kathy Davis
(C) Ken and Janet Zittrer
(C) Gary and Lise Deinhard and family
(C) Kevin Erion and family
(C) Eric and Gayle Bruce (friends of Ray & Kathy)
(C) Peter and Katherine van Schoonhoven
(C) Van and Judy Douglas (friends of Ken & Janet)
(C) Dave and Midge Knox (friends of Ray & Kathy)
(C) Norman Cason

Steve has an additional 6 coupons, and if there are any extra out of that bunch we'll give to the next in line who confirm.

I look forward to seeing you all out at Rancho. For most of us, this will just be a quick weekend trip, with most arriving on Friday. I was thinking it would be nice to have a pot-luck on Saturday night. With 15 coaches, we should be doing some really good eating! If someone would like to jump up and take over planning on that, please let me know!

Oh, just as a double check, here's the list I still have as tentative.

Harry and Shirley Hoppe
Jim and Chris (Coloradobus)
Darl and Martha Wilson
Brian and Beverly Essler
Mike and Dee Clark


I hope you all have a blessed Thanksgiving, and I look forward to hearing from you.


Thanks,
Ray

[Ray Davis]

I just made my reservations. When calling in you might need to make references to either "POG", "Prevost Owners Group" or "Steve Bennett" to be placed with us. Please make sure they understand you are with the group.

If I indicated previously you would receive a coupon you can still make reservations now. Mention the 50% off coupon now to receive the correct rate. You will need to bring the coupon when you arrive, however.

Several of us will be coming early, if you'd like to join. Ken Zittrer and I will be arriving on Tuesday the 22nd, but I will be working during that week from the bus.

I will be mailing coupons out to those who requested later this week.


Ray

[Jim_Scoggins]

Something to do:

In nearby Escondido is the Stone Brewery. Great tour and strong beer--taste them all after the tour. My favorite was their mildest, Stone Pale Ale

www.stonebrew.com/

[Ray Davis]

Jim,

Thanks for the info. Sounds like that should be fun. I'm sure we'll have enough cars to take a group of us out there!

Ray

[Ray Davis]

OK, just a follow up here. I've either sent out the coupons I have, or have notified you via email that I have a coupon reserved for you. Please contact me if you haven't heard from me and are on my list (above).

This should be fun. It looks like we have about 15 vehicles coming. Most are POG members, but I've got some friends of mine (one in a Prevost, another in a 5th wheel), and Steve Bennett has invited some of his friends/customers who might be interested in POG/Prevost in the future!

I'm looking forward and getting out in my new bus! I got the satellite installed earlier this week out at Marathon in Beaumont (just opened), and I'm ready to go. :D

Ray

[jello_jeep]

Hey Ray, how did you like it in Beaumont?

Also as far as eating goes on potluck night, as said earlier, I am not sure we will have our bus in California at that point, but even if we don't I will be happy to smoke up 20 or 30 pounds of pork for pulled pork sammiches etc. A nice 9 or 10 hour smoke over some oak lump charcoal & cherry wood maybe!

That park is about a 45 minute ride from our home at worst, so I could smoke em up early and transport them out there.

Others could pitch in the buns, or tater salad, apple pies or other assorted BBQ fare (honest American chow)! drinks chips, whatever. (extra points awarded for home-made ice cream).

Other ideas welcomed of course, but its a starting point! (I need excuses to use my new smoker anyway).

Lemme know what ya'll think.....

[Ray Davis]

Hey Warren,

That sounds great. We'd love to have you join us, even if you can't bring the bus and stay.

I haven't had any other responses yet, so let's go with this then!

Ray

[garyde]

hi Warren . I can cook up some tri tip if there's a BBQ pit. I'll bring the Tri-tip and the red oak.

[Will Garner]

Ray,

Good Morning from North Carolina.

I have a probable job lined up with the USGA for the Torrey Pines Men's US Open in June 2008. Do you have any recommendations on where we can park the bus in the San Diego area? Campgrounds, State Parks, Local Parks, friendly driveways?

Thanks

[jello_jeep]

Will, we stayed at The Lodge At Torrey Pines earlier this year. Parking right there is a bit tight.(This is the hotel right at the golf course)

There are state parks right there, but at least when we were there I seem to recall it was posted for no overnight parking. Its basically for parking and hiking down over the cliffs to the beach.. Nice views etc.

The Lodge is a 5 star kind of place, you might give them a call, ask for the concierge and ask them to refer you to the closest RV park or overnight type state park. Depending on how long you plan to be there, you might ask them if there is somewhere you could park there, ya never know until you ask!

The number is 858.453.4420. They are most friendly and will likely help.

While there you should sample the voted "Best Hamburger in San Diego County" which is served at the coffee shop there, called "The Old Fashioned Drug Store Cheeseburger". Its great!

Good luck!

[jello_jeep]

Gary, don't know what all they have at ORA, I was thinking to do them at home and truck them out there if we don't have the bus here in CA yet..


hi Warren . I can cook up some tri tip if there's a BBQ pit. I'll bring the Tri-tip and the red oak.

[garyde]

OK, let me know what I can do. I'm happy to help.

[truk4u]

Jeep,

If you do that, cut ya off a hunk and mail to Jdub, he's still learning.:D

[0533]

Norm,

Welcome aboard. I will put your name on the email list. I've just received coupons, and will posting a message about that shortly, with instructions. Stay tuned.

Ray
Good morning Ray,

We are picking up our coach in Coburg around the 15th. of Jan. It is going through a makeover and some upgrades after our recent purchase. We plan to hang in the Coburg area for several days until we get a better handle on the systems and try and shake down the coach. If all goes well, we plan to head south down to I 10 and then on back north to Florida. We would enjoy dropping by at ODA Rancho Ca. and meet all of you. Please consider us in your count. Regards,

Bruce

[BUSTER]

All,

Jean and I will bring the white wine for all...I am not a cook as Mello and Harry and Ken can attest after Kerrville...but I do throw a heck of a wine party...we are there Friday and Saturday nights...don't pass it around but I starting working a job until next summer...all the best..

[BUSTER]

Bluevost and Buster stayed in this park earlier this year. It is in the north part of mission bay close to 5. I do not know how far that is from LaJolla...maybe that will work for you...plenty of room...back in to the water...

[merle&louise]

I'm not certain but I think that this park is closed. It was a 5 star RV resort IMO, and it was demolished (or is going to be demolished) to make room for condos! It had really nice landscaping and was right on San Diego Bay next to a marina. Check it out on Woodalls online or just google it.:D

If it is open give it a try. It is a little south of Mission Bay RV park, but it is much nicer. If my memory serves me correctly, both parks are about a 30 minute drive to LaJolla.:)

Edit: I just checked and it is open. chulavistarv.com

[Ray Davis]

Hi Everyone,

Just a quick note to update you on the status of the mini rally at Rancho. It looks like we could easily have 20 coaches there the weekend of the 25-27th. Many of us are arriving earlier in the week, should you want to come earlier.

We are pre-planning ONLY a couple of activities.

Saturday night we want to host a pot-luck with everyone. Warren and Kelly Jo have volunteered to bring enough pulled-pork to feed the bunch. Ken Zittrer and I talked yesterday and felt we should complement this main course with some BBQ chicken and maybe hotdogs for the kids.

I'm looking for volunteers for various other meals to join. Rather than specifying who HAS to bring what, if you have something you'd like to bring (your own specialties), let me know and I will attempt to coordinate. It looks like we will have between 40 and 50 with somewhere around 5-10 kids.


Because January at Rancho can be cold (altitude is around 3000 feet, I hear), it was suggested that we rent the clubhouse for the night. That will give us a guaranteed warm place to host the potluck, even if weather isn't the best. The cost to rent the facility for the one evening is $350. We figure that if we charged $10 per adult ($20 per bus) that this would more than cover the cost, with some maybe left over for Friday night (more later). This letter is a request to make sure that's OK. Ken Z. has already requested the paperwork to reserve the clubhouse, but it's a $250 non-refundable deposit, so we don't want to book until we've heard from most of you. I am assuming that $20 per coach is not going to break the bank! Please let me know if this works for you.

We also thought that most people will be arriving on Friday, so we didn't want to schedule any dinner. But, we thought it might be fun to have an "ice cream social" a bit later on Friday evening. This would be an open-bar ice cream bar with fixings for milk shakes, root beer floats, banana splits, sundaes etc. Hopefully that would be fun. If we have extra monies from the room deposit, we would apply it to purchasing the fixings for the ice cream social.

We're not planning a bunch of technical seminars which are typical of a POG rally. However, Ken Zittrer has indicated he'd be willing to do a 1/2 - 3/4 hour seminar on the Webasto heating units that most of our busses use. This was a seminar out at Santa Fe, NM in 2006 by Mango Mike, and was greatly received.

Other than that, possibilities in the area include:

* golf
* tennis
* swimming
* biking
* hiking
* shopping
* wine tasting (several wineries close by)


Well, as the time gets closer, we're getting excited about going. When you have a minute, drop me a note (rdavis@cox.net), and let me know:

1. when you are arriving (along with number of people)
2. what you'd like to bring for the potluck
3. confirm that $20/coach is OK for room rental


Thanks,
Ray

[Ray Davis]

Tuga,

As far as I know, Chula Vista is still there, and doing fine. It's a nice place to stay. I stayed for 1 week while attending a trade show in San Diego last summer. Marathon just had one of their rallies there just last month.

I wasn't aware the park was in any danger of being closed down.


Ray

http://www.chulavistarv.com/

[Ray Davis]

Jean and I will bring the white wine for all...I am not a cook as Mello and Harry and Ken can attest after Kerrville...but I do throw a heck of a wine party...we are there Friday and Saturday nights...don't pass it around but I starting working a job until next summer...all the best..


Hey Mike, Ken and I were talking about getting a local winery to do a wine tasting Saturday evening, prior to our dinner, but if you'd like to take on this part, that would be great!

Let us know.

Ray

[Ray Davis]

Gary, don't know what all they have at ORA, I was thinking to do them at home and truck them out there if we don't have the bus here in CA yet..



Gary, Warren,

I don't know what facilities are there for BBQing. I will check. They did indicate to us that we can bring our own BBQ's. No open fires, however. But, a charcoal BBQ is fine.

Assuming we rent the clubhouse, I believe there is a kitchen there. Again we will confirm ASAP.


Ray

ps: Tri-tip! Yum! Sounds like we'll be eating OK!!

[Ray Davis]

Good morning Ray,

We are picking up our coach in Coburg around the 15th. of Jan. It is going through a makeover and some upgrades after our recent purchase. We plan to hang in the Coburg area for several days until we get a better handle on the systems and try and shake down the coach. If all goes well, we plan to head south down to I 10 and then on back north to Florida. We would enjoy dropping by at ODA Rancho Ca. and meet all of you. Please consider us in your count. Regards,

Bruce

Bruce and Pam! Great to have you along. Please contact Rancho ORA directly to book your site. Toll Free: 888.767.0848. Let them know you are with the POG/Prevost Group so they put you in the right area. Some of us will be arriving as early as Jan 21st, with the majority arriving the 24th or 25th.

If you send me your email address, I will add you to my notifications (we have several non-POG people coming whom I'm sending email notices to.)


Ray

[gmcbuffalo]

Ray

Reread your posts on the SC mini and I am in for the $20 and the wine tasting and anything else talked about that I have missed.

Anyone else from the NW going and if so what dates are you leaving maybe able to caravan down. "CONVOY"

GregM

[Ray Davis]

Great Gregg, we look forward to seeing you. Some of us will be down as early as Monday. I think that Bruce and Pam Harris will be coming down from Oregon (0533), as well as Peter (Petervs) so hopefully you can hook up?

Ray

[jello_jeep]

We ventured out to ORA yesterday to take a look-see at the clubhouse / kitchen and see what was up.

The clubhouse is beautiful, has seating room for 300, a bar, a stage, a big fireplace and a kitchen.

The kitchen has a big wolf commercial stove, a big warming/holding oven and ample refrigerator / freezer space. Looks like a great deal for what we are paying for it.

I have some pics, but the server is dropping the connection for some reason, says to try later? Will do do.

Good news on the rate / coupon deal is that the rally was booked so everyone gets half price. No coupon needed. Also you cannot use a coupon on top of the rally rate, but can save your coupons for other visits! So good news there.

They showed me where we are slated to be, its just past the clubhouse on the right side, spaces 573-591 (with a gap or two) but those are the digs.

Looks like it will be a good event. Looking forward to it.

[Ray Davis]

Here's the pictures Warren wanted to post ...

Looks like a NICE place!

Now I'm really getting hungy!! :eek::rolleyes:

[truk4u]

A bar! You mean your going to have some squeezins?:p

[jello_jeep]

It does appear to be a libation friendly atmosphere! :D

[BUSTER]

Looks like the place will be JUST FINE !!!!

[Ray Davis]

Well, we're shaping up to have a pretty good crowd at Rancho.

As of today, we have 21 coaches coming. We had 22, but lost one. Steve Bennett has invited six guests, and I have 3 guests coming as well. Other than that we've got 12 pog members coming! Maybe some new members will come out of this.

As with the FL group, we have not planned anything formal other than the pot luck for Saturday evening. We are looking to see if we can have some kind of wine tasting prior to that.

Ken Zittrer has offered to service Mike Simmon's webasto onsite, replacing his nozzle, and adjusting electrodes. Onlookers are welcome to that.

If anyone would like to coordinate something, please feel free to jump in.


Ray

[JIM CHALOUPKA]

Ken Zittrer has offered to service Mike Simmon's webasto onsite, replacing his nozzle, and adjusting electrodes. Onlookers are welcome to that.

If anyone would like to coordinate something, please feel free to jump in.


Ray[/QUOTE]

Uh Um, Ray, that's sounding a little risque! :eek:

[Ray Davis]

Uh Um, Ray, that's sounding a little risque!

Jim, come-on now, it's time to get a life!! Or better yet, get a bus!!! :eek::rolleyes:

[Ray Davis]

Well, we're getting close. I have received emails from a few more of Steve Bennett's guests. Just to keep everyone informed I sent the following email to the non-POG people in our little mini rally:


Hello All,

Just a quick note to remind you about the min-rally at ORA Rancho next week. Although we've set the dates as 1/25-1/27, several of us will be arriving earlier in the week. Please feel free to come out as early as you'd like. The only formal planned event (at this point) is a potluck dinner on Saturday evening. We have rented the clubhouse for Saturday evening ($20 per family). This will provide us a nice place to have the pot luck, and a possible wine tasting before the dinner (still working on this).

Please plan on bringing something for the potluck. I am expecting between 40 and 50 people (approx 5-10 kids). Please bring something to share that feeds approximately 8-10 people. If you'd like to bring more, or multiple items, I've never seen any of us turn down food!

For those who like the technical stuff, Ken Zittrer has volunteered to have a 30-45 minute seminar in Webasto tune-ups. Many of us have had trouble with these units recently, and a tune-up is pretty darn easy to accomplish. Ken will be replacing the nozzle and adjusting electrodes on Mike Simmon's coach (probably on Saturday morning), and you are invited to join in.

Since a lot of people will be arriving on Friday after work hours, we elected to not have any formal meal on Friday. We are going to put together a "do-it-youself" ice cream sundae bar on Friday night. Place is yet to be determined, but will most likely be in one of the "slots" we're using.

I have now been told that everyone in our little mini-rally group will get the 50% rental rate at ORA, and you will not need to use your coupon if you happened to receive one earlier. Basic rates there are $65/night, with a 15% discount for FMCA members. We should get 50% off of the $65 rate.



So, it looks like it's shaping up to be a fun weekend. If anyone has any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me.

Thanks!
Ray

[Ray Davis]

I spoke with Steve Bennett last night, and he happened to mention the weather for next week out at Rancho. If you're coming early in the week, be prepared for some cold weather, and possible showers.

High temps will be down in the mid 40's during mid week, moving up to mid 50's on Friday and Saturday. Evening temps are below freezing, so make sure your heaters are working!

http://www.weather.com/outlook/recreation/ski/tenday/92536?from=36hr_fcst10DayLink_ski is a link to the 10 day forecast out at Rancho.


We'll see you next week!

Thanks,
Ray

[Ray Davis]

Well, the week is finally here. I'm pushing out in a couple of hours, and I believe Ken Z will be leaving the Q shortly.

We look forward to seeing everyone out at Rancho. Please drive safely. Looks like we may be in for a little wet weather.


Ray

[jello_jeep]

Sea Ray, you don't need a class B, you need a Captains license! :p

[Ray Davis]

Yeah, I like the sound of that Captain Ray!

Oh well. We made it out to ORA. I arrived around 230PM and Ken and Janet arrived about 4PM. Just enough rain enroute to make things really dirty!

So far it's nice and quiet out here, but a bit chilly. At least for us southern CA boys, low 40's is chilly!

Ken has some pictures from Q he wants to post, but Verizon coverage is non-existent in the park. I guess I'll let him use the satellite! :eek:

[Ray Davis]

Since we're not sure how many people would be here by Friday night dinner time, we decided instead to host a ice-cream social that evening. BUT, it's really cold out here at night, and the thought of ice cream outside in the cold is a bit daunting.

We just spoke with the owner of the restaurant on site here at ORA. They have been closed some nights for dinner, due to lack of attendance. We asked them if we brought a group of people for dinner on Friday would they (1) stay open, and (2) would they allow us to serve our ice-cream social at the restaurant.

They thought that was a wonderful idea.

So, dinner for those who are interested will be Friday night at the restaurant. Time to be determined, but I'd assume 530-600P would be a good time. They have a nice restaurant, a reasonable menu, fireplace. It looks like a great way for starting our weekend.

So please join us Friday night at the restaurant!


A little update, currently there are 5 coaches here, with several more expected today. Weather shows a potential for rain, maybe even snow this evening!! :eek:

Temps have been high 40's, low 50's in the daytime, and down to about 31 at night!

Ray

[dalej]

Ray, here is what our weather outlook is....We would love to join you guys!

ps..read the line at the bottom of the photo.

[jello_jeep]

Dale, do you live there on purpose?? :confused:





ps..read the line at the bottom of the photo.

[Kevin Erion]

Ray, the restaurant is a good idea, we have eaten there before. See you Friday, I hope around 3:30, 4:00.
Kevin

[garyde]

Ray, it was 44 degrees as I went home at 4:00 today. It's been raining hard all day in Santa Barbara, lightning & thunderstorms,:eek: and there is a fresh foot of snow in the mountains surrounding our town tonight.

[Ray Davis]

HI Guys!

Dale, let's just say I'm glad not to be where you are!


Well, we've now got about 8 coaches and more expected today. I rained pretty hard last night, and we awoke to snow in the local mountains! Actually little warmer due to the snow.

NOTE: just spoke to the restaurant again. I didn't realize they normally close at 7PM. They have agreed to stay late for us, but let's try to make it over to the restaurant starting at 5PM tomorrow.

Ice-cream social after dinner.

Thanks,
Ray

ps: we'll try to post some pictures soon.

[jello_jeep]

Misc. happenings out west..

Kevin E's kids are the life of the party! Kudos to Kevin on polite well mannered and fun kids! (ahhh Americans)


<img src="http://img527.imageshack.us/img527/4930/wy7x3391jx1.jpg" alt="Image Hosted by ImageShack.us"/><br/>By <a target="_new" href="http://profile.imageshack.us/user/jello_jeep">jello_jeep</a>, shot with <a target="_new" href="http://profile.imageshack.us/camerabuy.php?model=Canon+EOS-1Ds+Mark+II&make=Canon">Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II</a> at 2008-01-27


Local mafioso look alikes are creeping about ORA Rancho, with other local dignitaries..


<img src="http://img527.imageshack.us/img527/6517/wy7x3355zp2.jpg" alt="Image Hosted by ImageShack.us"/><br/>By <a target="_new" href="http://profile.imageshack.us/user/jello_jeep">jello_jeep</a>, shot with <a target="_new" href="http://profile.imageshack.us/camerabuy.php?model=Canon+EOS-1Ds+Mark+II&make=Canon">Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II</a> at 2008-01-27


How many SENIOR Poggers does it take to plug in one simple cord??

http://img182.imageshack.us/img182/5601/wy7x3358fg3.jpg
By jello_jeep (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/jello_jeep), shot with Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II (http://profile.imageshack.us/camerabuy.php?model=Canon+EOS-1Ds+Mark+II&make=Canon) at 2008-01-27

We have some cool vintage Marathons here, including Norm's Marathon coach number 12 !!

http://img242.imageshack.us/img242/9088/wy7x3359wi0.jpg
By jello_jeep (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/jello_jeep), shot with Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II (http://profile.imageshack.us/camerabuy.php?model=Canon+EOS-1Ds+Mark+II&make=Canon) at 2008-01-27

[jello_jeep]

Also present was a friend of Ray's (didn't know he had any), I think his name is Marshall. He works for MCI, and picked up an MCI coach, Marathon number 6!!



http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/8979/wy7x3368cs0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
By Jello_Jeep (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/Jello_Jeep)

Pretty interesting story here, as Marshall was on his way here, but had to stop for a business meeting at a hotel. He left his dog inside the bus, and went into the meeting. At some point, someone came in and said "hey, someone is driving your bus"! He said it couldn't be, as the door was locked etc.

He went outside to find his dog, standing up in the driver's seat.. had stepped on the brake release and his bus had rolled backwards 100' or so and crashed into a tree, then back forward coming to a rest in the middle of the lot.

The resulting crash smashed in the back bumper to the point that it was against the crank on the engine, he had to use a broken piece of wood to pry things away from it so he could fire up again!!

http://img176.imageshack.us/img176/9676/wy7x3366dh5.jpg
By jello_jeep (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/jello_jeep), shot with Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II (http://profile.imageshack.us/camerabuy.php?model=Canon+EOS-1Ds+Mark+II&make=Canon) at 2008-01-27

http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/5958/wy7x3367ef6.jpg
By jello_jeep (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/jello_jeep), shot with Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II (http://profile.imageshack.us/camerabuy.php?model=Canon+EOS-1Ds+Mark+II&make=Canon) at 2008-01-27

[jello_jeep]

Later, the brain trust went to work on Norm's Webasto!!


http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/3259/wy7x3369jk0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
By Jello_Jeep (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/Jello_Jeep)

Some of ths shots sho Ken Z wearing blue rubber gloves, kind of makes you wonder what is going on in this shot!

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/7259/wy7x3375ct4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
By Jello_Jeep (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/Jello_Jeep)

Norm's 8V ready for hard charging action!

http://img47.imageshack.us/img47/4664/wy7x3377we5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
By Jello_Jeep (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/Jello_Jeep)

Ken Z doing that voo-doo, that he does oh so well... The blue gloves look slightly soiled... run for your lives!!

http://img89.imageshack.us/img89/3190/wy7x3382br6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
By Jello_Jeep (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/Jello_Jeep)

[jello_jeep]

Later in the day, arrangements had been made to rent the club house, and it was a great idea on Ray's part. It was raining outside but we had it nice and tosaty inside!!

Here Ray & Steve make short work of a stray cat that was hanging out around Gary D's grilling operation.... hmm...


http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/3559/wy7x3385yp0.jpg
By jello_jeep (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/jello_jeep), shot with Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II (http://profile.imageshack.us/camerabuy.php?model=Canon+EOS-1Ds+Mark+II&make=Canon) at 2008-01-27

More folk getting their party on!!

http://img177.imageshack.us/img177/9679/wy7x3399ck8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
By Jello_Jeep (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/Jello_Jeep)




Everybody was having a hoot at this shin dig.... We easily could have fed 150 people!

Janet was very hungry for some reson, and demanded to be first in line.. Who were we to argue?? She really loves salad!

http://img212.imageshack.us/img212/1498/wy7x3394ag3.jpg
By jello_jeep (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/jello_jeep), shot with Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II (http://profile.imageshack.us/camerabuy.php?model=Canon+EOS-1Ds+Mark+II&make=Canon) at 2008-01-27

Gary D's youngn's getting into the swing of things. Great kids here too! Poggers seem to be good parents.... Gary's tri tip was super too!!

http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/6287/wy7x3398eu0.jpg
By jello_jeep (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/jello_jeep), shot with Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II (http://profile.imageshack.us/camerabuy.php?model=Canon+EOS-1Ds+Mark+II&make=Canon) at 2008-01-27

[jello_jeep]

Chestnuts roasting on the open fire.............

http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/9633/wy7x3400fk8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
By Jello_Jeep (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/Jello_Jeep)

Erion gives Mike & Peter a talkin to..


http://img167.imageshack.us/img167/1820/wy7x3401ue3.jpg
By jello_jeep (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/jello_jeep), shot with Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II (http://profile.imageshack.us/camerabuy.php?model=Canon+EOS-1Ds+Mark+II&make=Canon) at 2008-01-27

Why squabble, when you can have a cocktail!!!

http://img167.imageshack.us/img167/3952/wy7x3403sh4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
By Jello_Jeep (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/Jello_Jeep)


Chow time!!!

http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/1800/wy7x3407eo9.jpg
By jello_jeep (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/jello_jeep), shot with Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II (http://profile.imageshack.us/camerabuy.php?model=Canon+EOS-1Ds+Mark+II&make=Canon) at 2008-01-27

[dalej]

Jello_Jeep,

Thanks so much for the photos and stories, it's just like being there.

[RDHoyum]

What a pleasant weekend we had, meeting all of you POGers at Rancho ORA. Thanks for welcoming Sharon and I into this entertaining group.
It was sad to see everyone roll out this morning. It stayed sunny most all afternoon, but very windy.

Safe travels to each and everyone. We'll begin making plans to meet again in Pahrump, NV in May.

[MangoMike]

Jello Man,

Nice job on the pictorial. I thought I was reading LIFE magazine.

I had to laugh at the story of MCI bus driving dog. That even tops the one of Mango Maxine hitting the dump switch as I was hookin' up.


M

[Jerry Winchester]

I guess this makes the case for having the PITA plastic cover over the brake release.

Good job with the pics Jeep. It would be nice if those old timers out east with their Brownie could keep up.

[jello_jeep]

Thanks for the kudos..

You are right Jdub, about the lack of photos from the right coast, but hey, those tin types are very hard to scan!! :)

And as a side note, the driving dog gave up on driving after they pulled his license yesterday, but he was making up for it by standing on the horn button last night and this morning! LOL..

That darg really wants to drive... and before someone asks, no,, it was not a Greyhound :)

[JIM CHALOUPKA]

Well then Jeep, was it a Dalmatian? :D

[Kevin Erion]

I wanted to Thank Sharon and Randy for Lunch and movies on Saturday, the Girls had a Great time! Warren for the gas and Ray and Kathy for doing a wonder job of getting the group together. The first trip out for the bunk coach and I learned a few things, the girls ended up in the back with Dad, thats OK!
I didn't know that the Cruise Airs shut off at about 40 degrees when set on heat. The Webasco worked great, sure glad we got that all tuned up thanks to the help of Ray and Ken a few weeks ago, sure came in handy. It was nice to see some of the West Coast group get together for a casual weekend of fun.
Thanks again to all!

[win42]

Shirley and I are very sorry we could not be with you this time. It sounds like we missed a good time. We have too many balls in the air at this time. Were are getting them sorted out. I heard from Darl Wilson today, he met with Jim Skiff at Seibt in Pharump, NV and finalized the details for the upcoming May POG rally. He was very impressed with the the resort and indicated it was first class in every way. Please plan on attending the rally and we know we can count on you for help when the time comes cause you are a great group.
Ray you will not have any problems parking your bus there. They took many pictures and will be posting them soon.

[garyde]

What a great weekend! It rained all the way down to So. Cal on thursday night, and rained most of the way home but in between we had 3 days of fun. Lise , Torie & Conner took a side trip to the San Diego Wild Animal Park ( they had the Lions locked up!) , while dad washed the Coach after a muddy and wet Thursday night. We had a wonderful time with Warren, Kelly, Ray and Kathy at the Pechanga Indian Casino (can you say Buffet), and meeting up with Steve Bennet and his wife (the only guy to wait up until 10:00 PM and help me back in to my site). It got down to 37 at night so everyone had the opportunity to use their Heating systems (Namely Webasto & Cruiseaire). Ray's friend ,Dave ,showed up with his Red 45 foot converted entertainer bus, with the long wheel base. Marshall shared stories about his MCI (Coach #6, Marathon) and stories about the founders of Marathon. I got a tour of Kevins Coach and it is sweet. After it comes back from Marathon in the Spring, I'm sure it will be better than new. Peter and his wife were here from Washington enjoying some time in So. California. A nice weekend , I wish we had a few more days

[rmboies]

[QUOTE=jello_jeep;23348]Chestnuts roasting on the open fire.............

Looks like a fun time had by all! Thanks for the pics JJ! I envy all you POGGERS having such a good time:D

[bluevost]

We had a great weekend in Rancho. Despite the not so perfect weather, we had good times and good people. Thanks to Ray and Kathy Davis for putting this together, Warren and Kelly for the pulled pork, Gary D and Lise for the tri tips.

I've posted some pix on my website if you would like to see them

http://web.mac.com/kenzittrer

Keep in mind that my site is directed to non-POGgers for the most part. Click on any of the headings, but the rally is jounal jan 26, rally photos jan 26, journal jan 27, and photos jan 27

See ya,

Ken