Salem, Oregon

We have arrived at the site of the Wally Byam Caravan Club International Rally 2006. Our drive up I-5 from Northern California was rolling and beautiful with green mountains and busy rivers along both sides of the highway. We camped near Mt. Shasta, which is covered with snow. It is actually a volcano.

When we left Virginia in November, the only date that we had to keep was June 14, our scheduled arrival at the fairgrounds in Salem. We have "early worker" responsibilities.


This is the 49th year that Airstreamers have gathered to have fun, fellowship and adventure. The rally is always held around Wally Byam's birthday, which is July 4. It was Wally who invented the Airstream and founded the Airstream Company. He was also the first to organize RV caravans. Each year the International Rally is held in a different part of the country. By the time everyone arrives here on June 27 for the opening ceremony, over a thousand Airstreams from every state and from Canada will be parked.

Our first WBCCI Rally was 10 years ago in Rapid City, South Dakota, and we have attended a total of five. This year our rig is located next to the Hart of the Garden Building, which is appropriately named. Usually, we are parked rather snuggly, awnings touching, with neighbors on both sides. Here, because of a big tree between us and the Hart Building, no one can be parked next to our curb side. Our door opens onto a spacious yard with a flower garden view.

Last night we, along with several hundred other early workers, enjoyed a spagetti dinner here at the fairgrounds. This morning, in chilly, overcast weather, a pancake breakfast was served. Gloria has already been oriented regarding her post office duties and is on task. Jerry will soon begin preparing for his seminar for the Region Officers.