Public gate: You're welcome

Motorhome owners from across North America and abroad will gather at the North Dakota State Fairgrounds in Minot for Family Motor Coach Association’s 74th International Convention.

Several thousand FMCA member families will attend the convention and live in their motorhomes on grounds during the event. But the convention is open to everyone. Follow the signs to public parking and then purchase a Public Gate Pass or a Daily Passport. Each pass grants access to certain convention activities.

‘Stars’ of the show
The scene of 4,000 to 5,000 motorhomes in one place is, unto itself, a sight to behold. Approximately 1,000 of these vehicles will take center stage as display units brought to Minot by major motorhome manufacturers and dealers.

Convention-goers can inspect and marvel at the motorhome industry’s latest luxuries and innovations. In addition, nearly every conceivable RV accessory and component, as well as novelty items and products suited for use in the home, will be on display.

Homes on wheels
Display vehicles include production-line units, custom-built coaches, and bus conversions in all sizes, styles and price ranges. They're equipped with all the comforts of home. And then some.

For instance, designer interiors, ceramic-tiled floors, flat-screen TVs, residential-size refrigerators, and rooms that expand at the touch of a button are common features of upscale models.

Seminars and entertainment, too
Informative seminars, professional entertainment, and various social activities also are part FMCA conventions and are available to the public who purchase a Daily Passport.

Anyone interested in buying a motorhome now or in the future may wish to attend a special seminar open to all convention attendees. “Selecting the Right Motorhome for Your Needs” will be presented Monday, Aug. 15, from 3:30 to 4:45 p.m. in Seminar 6, Commercial I. FMCA executive director Don Eversmann and Family Motor Coaching magazine technical editor Jim Brightly will conduct the seminar.

Those who purchase a Daily Passport on Monday, Aug. 15, can attend the “Orientation for First-time Attendees” seminar from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in Seminar 6. This session introduces first-time attendees to the activities and opportunities related to FMCA membership and attending rallies and conventions.

Public passes
Two types of passes are available to the public: a Public Gate Pass and a Daily Passport.

A Public Gate Pass admits to exhibits and daytime entertainment only, and costs $7 per day per person. Children 12 and under and persons with an active military ID are admitted free.

Public Gate Passes are available Monday, August 15, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Tuesday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cash payment only.

A Daily Passport may be the best choice for those interested in owning a motorhome. In addition to the motorhome and accessories exhibits, the Daily Passport provides access to all seminars and evening entertainment for the day.

Daily Passports cost $35 ($25 for FMCA members). They are available Monday, August 15, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Tuesday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

FMCA conventions present ongoing opportunities to learn more about the motorhoming lifestyle. One of the main information sources is the FMCA seminar program. More than 100 seminar topics related to all aspects of motorhoming will be offered in Minot. Sample topics: chassis maintenance, RV batteries, generator maintenance, safe driving, travel ideas, RV weight and tire safety.

The evening entertainment acts include Roy Clark, The Lettermen and New Odyssey performing on separate days at the Grandstand. A big band dance featuring Myron Summerfeld and his Music will be held on Monday.

Purchase a Daily Passport to enjoy the seminars and evening entertainment for the day.

Public Gate Program
Be sure to pick up a free copy of the Public Gate Program. It contains:

• list of exhibitors
• exhibitors maps showing display space numbers and locations
• schedule of the entertainment that is open to the public
• Family Motor Coaching magazine subscription form
• FMCA membership application

Many FMCA members contend the best part of conventions is the fun and fellowship shared among motorhome enthusiasts. The public can witness this display when visiting the exhibits and taking part in other Minot convention activities.

Note: Pets are not allowed in the exhibit areas, seminar rooms or other public assembly areas.

Minot public gate information
www.fmca.com/conventions/2005minot/public.asp

FMCA.com/Membership
www.fmca.com/membership

FMCA.com/About
www.fmca.com/about