Happy Mother’s Day to the better half of our Club.
As our Northern members enter another camping season, how many of you wished they stayed south a little bit longer, besides me? At least better weather is coming.
In case you have not heard, a new by-law has been proposed. Our CTC membership has been declining for years, now below the 400 level. The drop in Membership was discussed with the Board of Directors at the Florida National. New members sponsored by chapters have not kept pace with the attrition the club has experienced. Fact is a passive on-line applications process has equaled the pace of chapter sponsored members, and together they have not offset the membership decline.
The Board of Directors present at the FL National embraced the need for a by-law change. The sentiment expressed by many could be summed up by, “We are not a club of good RVs, but a club of good people with RVs.” The make of one’s rig does not speak to the quality of the individual. We must adapt or perish. As stated in our by-laws since 2012, “The name “Carriage” shall be considered neutral as to brand.” We need good people who like to travel in their buggies.  
A by-law was submitted to strip the laundry list of membership requirements from the application process to simply an owner of a “self-contained RV.” The National Officers and the By-Law Committee have reviewed the proposal for intent and to ensure no conflict exists with the by-law language. You may now view the proposed By-Law online. The Membership will vote on this proposal throughout July.
Speaking of the Florida National, congratulations go to Dave and Pat Hawthorne and the FL Space Coast Travelers on hosting an outstanding Rally. Other than the size, this rally rivaled any of the past Nationals by any standard whether it be food, entertainment, seminars or whatever. Those not attending missed a good one. A photo album is now available on the web site.
A contribution was made with the rally surplus to Vietnam and All Veterans of Brevard, Inc., a nonprofit that provides assistance to all veterans in their readjustment to civilian life. Again items were collected for people serving overseas. Please e-mail names and addresses of those you wish to receive a care package to GERALD JUNE geraldjune@msn.com .
If you do not have your reservation for this year’s Grand National you better hurry there are only a couple spots left. Rallies are tentatively set for 2018. Les Andrew and FL Roadrunners will host the FL National at Paradise Oaks in mid-April and in a return to Sevierville, the Tennessee Travelers will host the Grand National at River Plantation RV Resort in late September. Official announcements are scheduled for a later date.  Now any proposals for 2019? 
Sadly, our club has lost many members in recent months including past national officers Helen Moree and John Nelson and so many more are experiencing natures’ worst.  It is said our club is like family, that is why these loses and illness hit so close to home. Remember them and their families in your prayers to give them the strength to deal with their loss or affliction. I also urge you to submit memorials to post on the web site of a club members passing.