The Labour Day weekend had Family Campers and RV members gather at Sportsplex for the annual Ontario Provincial Fall Campout.
The weather co-operated with one of the season’s best camping weekends. There were 104 recreational vehicles on the grounds, to participate. Ontario members welcomed President Jack Smye, Oakville, the first Canadian ever elected to lead the international organization. He took office at National Campvention in Pennsylvania, in July.
In a special meeting Smye presented Noreen Smith, of Guelph, with the Hank Nathan Lifetime Achievement award for NCHA and Family Campers. The only previous winner of that award was Hank Nathan, pf New Jersey, founder of the National Campers and Hikers Association. It recognized Smith for a lifetime of service to the international family organization.
She also received a plaque for national executive board service. She (and her late husband, George,) served on international executive board for 37 years.
George and Noreen Smith formed several local chapters in Guelph, Cambridge, Kitchener, and Stratford. They also served several years on Ontario provincial board. Provincial director Hugh Hicks reported from National Campvention held in Centre Hall, Pennsylvania. Ontario brought home many honours. Besides the first Canadian president and the lifetime achievement award. Miss Ontario 2008, Lori Jamieson, was first runnerup to new teen queen, and also won the talent award at the national national level.
The chapter from Belleville, Ontario Fireflies, was named 2008 chapter of the year.
As a delegation to Campvention, Ontario tied with host Pennsylvania for most members in attendance.
At Fergus, a pageant was held to choose contestant to represent Ontario in Sedalia, Missouri in 2009. That honour goes to Sara Saunders, of Kingston.
Anyone wanting information on family campers and RVers may contact Field Director Darlene Wiltsie at (519) 822-8175.
