Oregon Coast Rally

September 29 through Oct 3, 2004

What a great time! 19 rigs worked their way to the mouth of the Columbia River at Warrenton, Oregon. We had Rotary RVF'ers represented from Washington, Colorado, Oregon and California and absolutely picture perfect weather to enjoy. The early arrivals gathered in the RV parks club house and enjoyed an impromptu potluck on Wednesday evening.

Thursday morning the golfers of the group chased golf balls on the beautiful coarse at Gearhart, just south of Warrenton. Thursday evening began with a catered wine and snack social hour followed by a catered dinner. After dinner a local historian provided us interesting history about Astoria's origination and development and that Astoria is the oldest American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains.

After breakfast and eye-opening coffee on Friday morning, we all were free to see the many historical sites in the area on our own. At 1:00 PM we met at the RV park and car-pooled to Fort Clatsop for an organized RVF group tour. The Lewis and Clark 4000 mile expedition concluded at the mouth of the Columbia River and they wintered at Fort Clatsop. It was a most interesting person tour. Friday evening began with a catered wine social hour and catered meal. A brief meeting was held subsequent to dinner with discussions about the Chicago event next year.

After breakfast on Saturday morning we all gathered for a car caravan to the Columbia River Maritime Museum. Once again, a most interesting private tour by one of the Museum's volunteers. No one really knew how dangerous it is for ships to enter the Columbia River from the ocean.

Saturday evening began with a catered wine and snack social hour and then a wonderful catered Chicken Cordon Bleu dinner. After dinner a local historian spoke to us about the Lewis and Clark expedition, how they came to get Sacagawea, the correct pronunciation of her name and some of their difficulties encountered on their journey. The difficulties in communication experienced by Lewis and Clark with the natives was acted out by the use of some of our RVF'ers. What a kick!

Everyone had tears from laughing so hard. The skit was definitely the highlight of the evening. Warren Nordgren captured us all for a group picture, in color, and was gracious enough to provide all rally attendees a copy to to take home.

Sunday morning we had a full catered breakfast prior to everyone departing to their individual destinations. A good time was had by all! Wagonmasters Marshall Smith, Dick Clark and Frank Brodersen wish to thank all the RVF'ers who attended and help make this such a successful rally.

Jack and Barbara Spencer had their trip to Warrenton interrupted. We wish Barbara the best and to know that our thoughts and prayers are with her.