Hot Times, Cool Friends, and a Tropical Surprise in Palm Desert!

Another California Cruisers RV Club camp rally is officially in the books, and what a memorable one it was!

This month's gathering took place at the beautiful Emerald Desert RV Resort in Palm Desert, where Cruisers rolled in throughout Wednesday and Thursday, ready for five days of friendship, laughter, and camping adventures. Despite some record-setting temperatures, our Cruisers once again proved that a little heat is no match for a great rally.

A Special Tribute to Our OGs

One of the greatest things about our club is that we never forget the people who helped build it.

We were thrilled to welcome four of our original California Cruisers members: Joe & Betty Patrick, Louise Grogan, and Liz Hemingway. These trailblazers helped create the club we all enjoy today, and it's always a special occasion when they join us at a rally

During the rally, the Club’s Trail Boss, Cynthia, shared exciting news from the Executive Board. In recognition of their years of dedication and service, our original members have officially been granted Emeritus Member status.

This honorary designation preserves all of their privileges as Cruisers, including voting rights and participation in club activities, while freeing them from the responsibility of serving as Wagon Masters.

Let's be honest... we love our OGs, and we're pretty sure we've all enjoyed knowing there were experienced hands around if a Wagon Master spot needed to be filled! Congratulations to our newest Emeritus Members. Your contributions continue to shape our club today.

Wagon Masters Who Know the Trail

A huge thank you goes out to our Wagon Masters, Bridget and Winnie, who once again proved that successful rallies don't just happen by accident. They kept everything organized, on schedule, and running smoothly from start to finish. Accompanying them were Marc and Moe, whose primary duties appeared to consist of waiting patiently to be told what to fetch, where to carry it, and most importantly, where to stand that would keep them safely out of the way. Every great leadership team needs dependable assistants, and Marc and Moe filled that role admirably. While Bridget and Winnie did the heavy lifting, the boys served as excellent examples of "management support personnel."

Bridget is no stranger to leadership. This marks her third rally as Wagon Master, and many members will remember her outstanding three-year run as Trail Boss. Wherever Bridget is working hard, you can usually find Rochelle close by lending a helping hand. The teamwork was on full display throughout the rally.

If You Can't Stand the Heat...

Mother Nature definitely had plans of her own.

One afternoon, the thermometer climbed all the way to 110°, sending most of us scrambling for shade, air conditioning, and cold beverages! Outdoor favorites like cornhole, biking, and afternoon socializing had to take a temporary back seat while everyone focused on staying cool.

Fortunately, our Meet & Greet, club dinner, and membership meeting gave everyone plenty of opportunities to reconnect indoors and catch up with fellow Cruisers.

Desert Nights Done Right

As the sun slipped below the horizon and temperatures finally became manageable, the campground came alive.

Small groups gathered around outdoor televisions. Cigars were lit. Favorite beverages appeared. Cards were shuffled. Dominoes clacked across tabletops. Stories were told, laughs were shared, and new memories were made.

In other words... a perfectly normal Cruiser evening.

Meet Your New Leadership Team

During the club meeting, members nominated and approved a new slate of officers who will help guide the California Cruisers into the future.

2027-2028 Executive Board

• President: Marc Saunders

• Vice President: Aaron Burgess

• Secretary: Lynette Miles

• Treasurer: Wendy Saffo

• Assistant Secretary: Donna English

• Assistant Treasurer: Mary O'Rourke

  
  

These incoming officers will take the reins from a board that has faithfully served the California Cruisers for the past four years. Under the steady leadership of outgoing President James Williamson, the club has experienced tremendous growth while never losing the welcoming, family-first spirit that makes the Cruisers so special. James helped guide the club through a period of expansion, strengthened many of the traditions we enjoy today, and always kept the focus on friendship, fun, and community. On behalf of the entire club, we extend our sincere thanks to James and the outgoing board for their years of dedication, hard work, and service. Their efforts have left the California Cruisers stronger than ever and well-positioned for the road ahead.

A heartfelt thank you goes to both our outgoing and incoming leaders for their dedication and service.

Then Came the Rain...

Just when we thought we had seen enough weather excitement for one rally, Saturday delivered another surprise.

Tropical Storm Rachel moved into the area, bringing welcome relief from the blistering heat along with a steady dose of rain. Members finally got a chance to enjoy cooler temperatures outdoors, though many were eventually driven back under cover as evening showers rolled through Palm Desert.

From triple-digit heat to tropical rainfall, this rally had it all!

Until We Meet Again

As always, Sunday arrived far too quickly.

Following our morning prayer, RVs gradually pulled out of their sites as families packed up and began the journey home. Hugs were shared, safe travels were wished, and plans were already being made for the next gathering.

Because at the end of the day, California Cruisers rallies are really about one thing: spending time with the family we've chosen along the road.

Mark Your Calendars: Pala in December!

The Cruisers are headed to Pala this December, and we're already looking forward to another fantastic rally.

Larry and Angela Clayton, along with Louis and Regina Conway, will be serving as Wagon Masters, and we're excited to see what they have planned.

Thinking about joining us? We'd love to have you! Whether you're a longtime RVer or just discovering the fun of traveling with a great group of friends, the California Cruisers welcome new faces. If you're interested in attending the Pala rally, simply visit our registration page and complete the online registration form: Register for the Pala Rally.

Don't wait too long; spots can fill up quickly. We hope to see you around the campfire in Pala!

Until then, safe travels, happy camping, and keep the shiny side up!

We'll see you down the road, Cruisers!