‘Samborees’ set up camp in Washington, Idaho
Two big RV parties are in the works for June – both within easy driving distances of Spokane.
The Washington State Samboree is happening the first week of June in Moses Lake and the Idaho State Samboree is set for the following week in Coeur d’Alene (see details inside).
A “Samboree” is an annual gathering of Good Sam Club members.
Good Sam Club, the world’s largest recreational vehicle organization, “began 40 years ago when a handful of RV owners put Good Samaritan bumper stickers on their rigs so fellow members would know they could get help on the road,” states the club’s Web site. Today there are more than 1 million members.
About 100 of those member families have signed up for the Washington Samboree, according to state treasurer Joan Shelton of Rock Island, Wash.
“We usually have more RVers from other states,” says Shelton. “I think the higher gas prices are keeping some away.”
The Idaho Samboree people agree.
“We have 160-some rigs so far,” says Marna Wier, Idaho registrar. “We expected a lot more by now. But who would have thought that gasoline would be this expensive?”
The American Automobile Association reports that nationwide, gasoline is averaging $2.92 for a gallon of self-serve regular, up more than 75 cents from last year.
While people from far-flung areas of the United States may be having second thoughts about coming, Inland Northwest RVers can’t use distance as an excuse for passing up a really good time.
Both Samborees have planned a full slate of seminars, colorful events, a vendors’ fair and great entertainment.
“The Idaho entertainment is going to be awesome,” says Wier of Coeur d’Alene.
“On Friday night we’re having the Men of Rhythm swing band from Spokane,” says Ardell Easterday, Idaho state co-assistant director and Samboree coordinator.
“On Saturday night,” adds Easterday, “Laughing Bird, a musical-comedy team from Wyoming, will perform.”
Events at the Idaho Samboree also include a Western band, Red Hat Tea; lake cruise; ice cream social; and a hike along the lake.
The theme for the Washington Samboree is “Hobo Daze,” according to state co-director Ron Borchers of Rock Island.
“We have a theme parade where some people will dress up in wild and crazy costumes,” says Borchers. “The Hillyard Belles and Trainmen of Spokane will be here to entertain.”
Both the Washington and Idaho gatherings will leave plenty of time for socializing with fellow RVers – perhaps the most enjoyable part of any Samboree.
Good Sam membership
While you must be a Good Sam Club member to attend a Samboree, it’s easy enough to join.
Carl Jackson, a representative at the club’s customer service headquarters in Englewood, Colo., says there are two quick ways to join: call toll-free to (800) 234-3450, or go online to www.goodsamclub.com/join.
New member dues are $19 a year.
“When a potential member calls in,” says Jackson, “someone here will take down the information and process the application. Once membership is approved, it takes about 24 hours to go into effect. The whole process takes about two days.”
In addition to a myriad of discounts on RV-related services and products, says Jackson, “one of the best parts of being a member of Good Sam Club is that you are joining a community of people doing the same thing you are doing.”
There are more than 2,000 local chapters that bring RVers together for group camping excursions.
Good Sam Club is under the corporate umbrella of Affinity Group, Inc. ( www.affinitygroup.com), which also includes Trailer Life and MotorHome magazines, Camping World, Coast to Coast Resorts and Woodall’s Publications.
Wheel question
With Memorial Day being the official kickoff of vacation season, what are your RVing plans for this summer? Weekends on the lake? Picnics in the mountains? Any long cross-country trips to visit relatives? Let me know by calling (509) 459-5435 or e-mail juliannec@spokesman.com.