HOAVC News for Vanners

Council of Council 2012 hosted by Florida Van Council

2012-02-12T22:49:00.001-06:00

As seen through the eyes of Vanatics Van Club:

Well our trip started on Friday, Jan 27th with getting up at 2:30 a.m. so we could be on the road by 4:30a.m. Jerry and Laura spent the night so we could get an early start. We met up with Rocco at the local travel center off I-55 and started our journey - first stop New Orleans!

We arrived in the Big Easy just in time for the weekend traffic heading to the city. Didn’t take long to reach the hotel though and we settled in with a few cocktails and preparing to head out for the evening. We grabbed a cab (suburban) for the 5 of us to hit the city. We were dropped off right in the thick of it and we were ready to party.

First stop was to grab a “Grenade” drink a local favorite and a few beers. We met up with some friend that live in Baton Rouge and the party was on! We went to Pat O’Brien’s to get a hurricane for Princess’s birthday (fact is she had 2 lol). Then we proceeded to make our way from bar to bar until about 2 am when we had enough and were tired from driving.

After a good night’s sleep we were up and back at it down at the French Market getting a cocktail, some gumbo and a muffaletta to satisfy our appetites, after that we proceeded to walk through the various shops and have some more cocktails. We made our way back to hotel later to clean up and grab a cab back down to the fun. Well let’s just say the rest of the evening was a lot of fun going from bar to bar enjoying the entertainment and we wrapped up about 2:30 a.m. - do you see a trend here?? lol..lol..

Sunday we got up and back down to the city after seeing Rocco off. He was heading to Clearwater, Florida and would meet us at the Council’s hotel. We arrived downtown to have the first of a few issues with our minivan as the ignition/key got stuck in the lock position. After about 30 minutes Jerry and I managed to unlock it and get van started so we pulled the battery cable and locked the van up and made our way downtown. We made an early evening of it, had a nice dinner and off to bed as we were heading to Gulf Shores, Alabama the next morning.

Got up Monday morning and left hotel around 8:30 and off to Gulf Shores. There we met up with Rita’s sister and mom and the Vantasia gang who were on their way to Florida. We grabbed a nice lunch with them at a place called Tacky Jacks. They came to our hotel and we finished off with drinks and a few apple pie shots and we finished ours at the famous LuLu Buffets restaurant (great food).

Tuesday we got up and had a bite to eat then took in some beach time, some lunch and dinner with Rita’s family and Jerry and Laura. Then called it an evening so we could get up and make our way to Florida the next morning.

We awoke Wednesday to dolphins outside our hotel in the ocean and warm weather! We loaded up and off to Florida we went. Made great time going down until (insert drum roll) the van broke down. We had pulled off to use a gas station and it died. We called for a tow and Rocco came and picked up Jerry and the girls. I myself had the ride of my life in the tow truck with the driver towing my van coming inches from running into the rear of a stopped vehicle. Let’s just say I was pissed and needed a drink. Jerry and I trouble shot the issue and had suspected a bad fuel pump so with the help of Randy (Gnarly) from FVC (he set us up with some tools) and myself Jerry and Denny Smith Jr, we dropped fuel tank and installed new pump and filter.. guess what??? Didn’t fix it.. grrrrrr… so next we discovered no spark.. ok easy enough new coil pack, guess what?? Didn’t fix it… double GRRRRRRR.. and to top it off now were blowing ignition fuses now I’m mad.. so I get my laptop out. I found a website that someone had blogged the same issue I was having and behold we found issue the O/2 sensor wire fell against exhaust manifold and was shorting the ignition out so .50 cents of electrical tape we were back in action minus $200.00 fuel pump we could not return. Oh well no need to worry about those for a while..lol..lol.. We spent the rest of the day at the beach bar laughing it off and made our way back to hotel where we left to go pick up the other part of our crew at the airport - the Hyde’s and Raoul. After picking them up we partied for a while then off to bed.

Thursday we spent the day near the beach bar hopping and souvenir shopping then back to the hotel to get ready for the nights activities. It was pajama night and I, Jerry and Rocco managed to pick up some cool shirts with Drunk 1, 2 & 3 on them so we suited up and made our way to the party. The shirts were a hit with the vanners, the band was great and we partied until wee hours.

Saturday we strolled around to look at all the vans in the show and shine. Rocco had his Caravan panel in the show and won a trophy for it as well - great job Rocco! After Cindy returned from the meeting we made our way to lunch and then back to the hotel for a cruise from 5-7 p.m. We had a great crowd with Mr.Bill, the Hopcraft’s and several others. We managed to drink a gallon of apple pie I had saved just for this occasion it was a great way to top off the trip. After returning we made our way to the band as well as all the raffles being drawn. Needless to say none of us won..lol..lol.. all in all a great trip took 15 hours to get home but worth every bit of it to spend time with my family and close friends and all the vanner family as well.

Darrin Bentley
Vanatics Van Club

Three Trails Vans Christmas Party 2011

2012-02-12T22:29:00.000-06:00

Three Trails Vans holds our Annual Christmas Party the 1st Saturday of December every year. This year was our 35th year for this event. It's held at the Community Center in Pleasant Valley, MO. The club provides the setups and food, the vanners make the fun!

TTV members get there early along with a few vanners that like to help us decorate the hall before the party starts. Then we had a short HOAVC meeting followed by the usual wine tasting. I didn't see anyone hugging toilets or falling asleep after the wine tasting this year. I think that's a good thing? ;-)

Every year we choose a different Santa - usually the newest club member. This year it was Stephen, owner of an early Dodge. It looked like he enjoyed himself.

We had another good turnout this year and were able to donate a lot of toys to Children's Mercy Hospital again. Thanks to Hy-Rollin for sending a cash donation to help buy additional toys. Thanks all for your donations!

Don Noone was the DJ and for the first time in a long time, Becky was able to be there too. Usually they have to split their night due to DJ demands. It was nice that they were both able to make it. We always judge the vehicles and give Best Van & Best Ride. This year we added a Holiday Sweater contest too. We'll have to do that again. There was a lot of competition in this contest LOL. Bea Spears won the best Christmas sweater & Israel Perez won the worst - each got a $15 Subway gift card.

From the looks of the pics I took I think everyone had fun and most if not all of the food was gone by the end of the night. It was good to see Wick & Karen at the party. He's recovering nicely from his surgery.

Hope you all can join us again next year on Saturday, December 1st!

Additional pics can be found at www.hoavc.org or www.3trailsvans.com or our Facebook pages.

HOAVC Meeting at TTV Christmas Party

CLUB EVENT INSURANCE (Club Liability Program) - APPROVED
This has been approved and paid for. Keith will work with Patti and will be contacting all clubs to let them know how much they owe to retain membership & voting rights. All clubs must pay for the insurance and give out at least one trophy for a vehicle at each event.

Patti Weber gave us a Treasury Report. The Council lost $58.89 after all expenses.

Discussed that with the # of participants shrinking we can't afford to continue to use the fairgrounds at a flat fee of $1,000. The fairgrounds is raising their price in 2013. 2012 will be the last year at this grounds. We will look further into getting a rate/vehicle/night to rent Shoemaker RV in Bevier, MO.

Tammy Kenney

Three Trails Vans

HOAVC's HAVOC 2011

2012-02-12T18:42:00.003-06:00

HOAVC's HAVOC is the final camping event of the season for our council. It was held at the Jasper County Fairgrounds in Colfax, IA. The attendance has shrunk some over the years but it's just as much fun as ever!

We got there late Friday night and after we set up camp we headed up to the building for the party. The party was in full swing when we arrived so we had some catching up to do! Face First was rockin' and everyone was dancing. HIVE ran the shot bar Friday night until the drinks ran out.

Saturday a lot of us slept in recuperating from Friday night's fun. Kids games & Adult games started. Big Dogs was serving food all weekend long for those of us with the munchies or who just didn't feel like cooking. I think everyone at the truck-in played at least one of the games. Every club that is a member of the council usually runs one adult and one kids game. There is also a phantom show n shine so you never know what you might win an award for. We held our HOAVC meeting and officers were voted on as well as 2011 Vanner & Vannerette (I'll post minutes from the meeting at the end) after the games. Later that afternoon the kids hit the campground in their costumes to do some trick or treating and have their costumes judged.

Trophy presentation and pumpkin carving judging followed dinner. Once again - some very inventive costumes. Congrats to Dale & Bonnie of CIV for being voted Vanner & Vannerette for 2011! CIV did a hayride through town again for everyone. Cold out but a lot of fun going past all the homes and having people check out the crazy people on the hay wagon LOL.

Vanner & Vannerette 2011

Waving so long to the hayride

2012 will be the last year we have HOAVC at this fairgrounds on October 19-21. Not sure where we'll be yet in 2013 but we'll keep you updated! Hope to see you there!

E-Z Life Vanners

3 Trails Vans - Totally Trashed Vanners

Best Couples Costume - Dale & Bonnie Ritz

For more pics check out our website and Facebook page. The 2012 flyer should be posted soon.

Minutes from the October Meeting:

October 15, 2011

Discussed HOAVC location and dates for 2012
- Approved to have a week between Hy-Rollin & HOAVC. Hopefully it will allow more vanners to attend the event by having a break between the two events.
- Next year’s dates will be October 19, 20, 21, 2012
- Would still like to move the event back to a campground. Paying a set price for the fairgrounds rather than a per van price is making HOAVC lose money. The campground would allow vanners to socialize more. The buildings while warmer and keeping us out of bad weather don’t allow us to socialize as much.
- Keith to look into Shoemaker’s again. He hasn’t been able to contact the owner but it was voted that we would still like to try to move the event there.

New Business:

Don & Becky Noon have been checking into Event Insurance for HOAVC members to use for all member events. Would have to raise club dues for all clubs. Are we interested? Becky is getting a rate.
HOAVC is losing money. Cost of fairgrounds is $1000 flat fee and only 40 vans in attendance this year. Do we want to consider doing 50/50 drawings to raise money.
Dairyland Vanners (Nationals Hosts 2012) is selling can coolers. 2/$5 or $3 each.
Voted for Vanner / Vannerette
2012 HOAVC Dues are due: $35/club, $25/individual. (Club price could rise if we approve event insurance.
Upcoming Events:
- Three Trails Vans Christmas Party: Party is in same location in Pleasant Valley, MO. Looking into a shuttle to/from hotels in area.
- EZ Life: looking at a new campground in Lamar, IA
- Donnie went to Wyandotte County Fairgrounds meeting. Still a possibility to move Spring Fever and hold a Nationals at the new grounds if they put in a campground. Nothing much on the new grounds yet.
  Vantasia Vans is looking at bands on October 28th at Argosy Casino if anyone would like to go with.
  Vantasia Vans has all lady officers. They will be having another dog parade at Spring Fever
- MASVA: Has taken over Fast Lane Vans weekend. They have a new campground for 2012.
- CIV: Looking into a tour of the NASCAR Track in Newton for their Caravan in 2012.
Elections:
President: Keith Wiese
Vice President: Gary Sholders
Secretary: Becky Roth
Treasurer: Patti Weber
Webmaster: Tammy Kenney
No schnapps bar on Saturday night – no one volunteered
Dues paid at meeting: Vantasia $35, Fast Lane $35, Keith & Joyce Wiese $25, Pikes Peak Vans $35, Hy-Rollin Vans $35
Meeting adjourned

Tammy Kenney

HOAVC Webmaster

Howling Van-Pir-Te hosted by Hy-Rollin Vans

2012-02-12T16:08:00.001-06:00

Hy-Rollin Vans holds their event at the same grounds that the Nationals will be held at in 2012 in Elkhorn, WI. In October we're never sure what the weather will be like but this year the weather was great - warm ... no snow!! On a good note, our event has a heated building we use for the party and run a kitchen out of it, serving breakfast, lunch, dinner & late night munchies to make ends meet.

Every year more & more vanners show up on Thursday night to camp and help decorate the building with us. Thursday night & Friday morning is spent decorating, making jello shots & setting up our kitchen. Once the clubs start arriving they start decorating their sites & carving pumpkins.

Friday night's band was Bounty Hunter, a band we've had play before and everyone seems to like. Adult games on Friday nights are always a challenge. Rick & Keith spend quite awhile every year before this event trying to figure out how to make the game cheat proof ... never happens LOL. Someone always figures out how to get the edge but it makes for a fun time!

Saturday morning we're up early and in the kitchen getting ready to serve breakfast. The activities are non-stop all day between kids games, show n shine, adult games, trick or treating and the hayride for kids. Hy-Rollin did get a break in the afternoon. A big THANK YOU to the Ace of Spade Van Club for inviting us to share dinner with them in their campsite. If you're coming to Nats this year, I recommend making sure you don't miss Vanner's Nite In hosted by them. The food they made was delish and something you won't want to miss!!!

Jill's dad made the trophies again this year. I hope he knows how much we appreciate what he does for us. They looked awesome as usual. As soon as trophy presentation was over the party started. There were some pretty creative costumes this year making it hard to choose the winners once again. Hope everyone had fun!! The dates for 2012 are October 5-7 - hope you can make it!

Look for more pics from our events on HOAVC.org and hyrollinvans.com

Tammy Kenney

Hy-Rollin Vans

Last Verse hosted by Fast Lane Vans

2012-02-11T20:53:00.001-06:00

Rick & I left early for Fast Lane and got there via Wakarusa, IN. We started in Kansas City and made it to Indiana in time to get our camper repaired. Spent a couple days sightseeing which included a car show, the RV Museum in Elkhart, Standard Oil Gas Station museum in Lafayette and the Battle of Tippecanoe. From there it was off the the truck-in.

2011 was the last year for Fast Lane Vans to hold their annual truck-in. It was held in memory of Rick Duvall at Rolling Hills Campground in Penfield, IL and Fast Lane made sure it was memorable.

Don Noone was the DJ for Friday night and from the looks of the picture below everyone had fun! Blue Jay and Sandy were there serving food for those of us that didn't feel like cooking.

Saturday was a day filled with fun & trying to recover from Friday night LOL. Show n Shine, Vanner Bingo and other adult and kids games took place during the day. There were also a couple of vanners celebrating birthdays with drinks like "Birthday Cake" & Vanatics now famous lemonade bar along with real birthday cake.

What would a truck-in be without a few glitches and vanners coming through for their friends and helping out?? Not sure what happened but the band was a no-show on Saturday night. A big thank you to Don Noone for offering to DJ again on Saturday night!

It was another great event put on by Fast Lane Vans and we're sorry it had to end. Thank you Fast Lane Vans for another great event!! Always a fun time!!

You can check out more pics on our Facebook page and website.

In 2012 MASVA will be taking over this weekend and hosting an event on August 24-26 at Lazy Day Campground, Montgomery City, MO.

Hope you can make it!

Tammy & Rick Kenney
Three Trails Vans of Kansas City

Get Your Kicks at our 6th hosted by The HAVEs

2011-11-27T21:58:00.001-06:00

Fun in Colorado, Lets see how many Vanners we can get into our cabin. 21 Vans from Colorado, and 19 Vans from other States.
We rented a cabin, with a loft as you can see the girls liked it.

A Good time was had by all.

Don Noone
Vantasia Vans

Midwest All Truck Nationals hosted by the GMC Chevy Truck Club

2011-11-27T21:07:00.001-06:00

The GMC Chevy Club hosts this 3 day event and it gets bigger every year. This year they had to deal with a lot of problems but still managed to pull it off. The Missouri River was the biggest problem. It flooded the EH Young Park that it's usually held at and had to find somewhere to hold the event. Actually water in general was the issue. There were a few good storms that rolled through making us run back for cover, closing up the vans and hanging on to the EZ-up to keep it from taking flight.

The Red X in Riverside was nice enough to offer them the space they needed and the show was on! Thee were a few strong storms that rolled through but it didn't stop the show. Their event raises money for Toys for Tots, Hope House & Operation Breakthrough.

Friday is a cruise night open to all vehicles. There are a lot of vendors, a DJ & band playing & swap meet area. Saturday & Sunday is the show with drive thru judging. Our vans always get a lot of people coming over to look at them. The kids just love the "Scooby Doo" vans. You will see everything from panel trucks, vans, rat rods, semis, stock pickups to lowriders. There is usually a burnout contest and a few games. Sunday they also have an auction to raise $ for the charities they support. Always a fun event.

Three Trails Vans

39th National Truck-In hosted by Vans on the Run

2011-10-25T21:38:00.000-05:00

The trip to Nats from GoodGuys in Columbus was an adventure as we were trying to beat a storm there. Ended up sitting under a overhang at the Best Western in Zanesville, OH riding it out once we heard the tornado siren going off while filling up gas tanks. Soon we arrived at the Nats. I guess it's true that pigs do fly! We heard that the pig balloon at the Nats flew over the interstate during the storm. I've searched YouTube for pics but I guess no one took video when it happened LOL. Glad the storm was over when we got there. It isn't fun putting up our camper in the rain.

SOVC Campsite

Having fun with Vantasia Vans

We parked with the Nats Board next to the area SOVC had roped off. Made for quite the entertainment as the party is always happening in that area. Here I was wondering who the crazy guys were in the pool during the thunder storm only to have Tommy Trucker climb out and to say hi LOL. The pool is made of rubber right...what could be wrong with being in the pool during a thunder storm? Glad to see some things never change. One of the other things we noticed when we first pulled in is a Corvair van with NotStock Photography painted on the side up by the Drop Jaw and Vannin.com booths. Yep, John decided to find out what vanning was all about! He planned to stay for a day or so but he must have had fun cuz he stayed for the whole event!


Vannin.com / Nats Board Meet & Greet


Slo Ride Game

Vanner's Nite In was a Soup Kitchen on Wednesday night. They also had the "Nutz Bus" to get you around. Parking with the Nats Board also meant parking with Mr. Bill. There were some very drunk people in his pool and an endless supply of blender drinks it seemed.

Show n Shine was broke up into 2 days. There were a lot of lineups for pics of all Econolines to celebrate 50 years of the Econoline and then the annual Early & VCVC lineups. Denny Smith did a nice job in the burnout contest.

Tom & Pam Chronister showed the updated Battlestar - now called DeathStar. Beautiful new paint job on it. It was nice to see Blastro & Headstone at the event as well as Karson's van. Congrats to Don & Becky Noone for taking Best of Show with Pirates of the Caravan! Overall a good event. Last count there were about 614 vans in attendance.

Tammy Kenney

More pics will be posted on the HOAVC website.
You can also view pics on DropJaw Magazine's website.

GoodGuys - Columbus, OH

2011-10-25T10:29:00.000-05:00

We don't usually get the opportunity to attend this event since it's usually the same weekend as Nats so this was the 1st time Rick & I went to this GoodGuys event & it was big with over 5,000 vehicles. It was the weekend before Nats so we just made it part of our vacation. I know we didn't see all of this event. We had a hard enough time just finding our friends on the grounds. Ken Hopcraft & Tim Brogan & his wife met us there.

We had a perfect spot (we thought) for setting up camp right on the corner by registration so vehicles had to come buy our site before they headed into the fairgrounds. We failed to notice however the HUGE light over our camper. Needless to say you could get up at 2am and it was like daylight inside hehe. I can't say I cared for the grounds at this event as much as I enjoy the Des Moines grounds but I would go again. I think I just didn't like being right in the city and if I thought we did a lot of walking at the Des Moines event you did even more here. I did like the open sided barns that you could park in and there was quite a bit of shade and a few buildings with a/c but a lot of parking lot areas you had to walk if you wanted to see all the cars. Rick loved their trophy presentation on Sunday. It was a drive through presentation into a big building with a/c and lots of seating which came in handy after all this walking.

This event is also where we first ran into John Jackson of NotStock Photography. Apparently a LOT of vanners had been sending and putting flyers in his Corvair van to try to get him to the Nationals LOL. Saturday we parked in the Ya Gotta Drive 'Em special parking section and we ended up actually parking by John with Ken Hopcraft. If you haven't checked out John's website and Facebook page you should really take the time. He does an awesome job!

Someone that works with my son also made this his 1st GoodGuys event with a 57 Nomad he'd been building. It took 2 days to find him but we finally caught up to him. Gorgeous car!
We also ran into several other vanners there including Headstone taking a run around the grounds - can't miss the sound of that van plus it's one of my favorites!! Overall a great time and a nice way to start our trip to the Van Nationals.

Be sure to check the HOAVC website & Facebook page for more pictures!

Rick & Tammy Kenney
Three Trails Vans/Hy-Rollin Vans

GoodGuys in Des Moines, IA

2011-10-24T21:41:00.000-05:00

This is one of our favorite car shows to go to. Rick & I have been going to this event since 2005. It's limited to vehicles 1972 & older and it's a lot of fun. It takes place in at the State Fair Park in Des Moines, IA over the 4th of July weekend. It's kind of like a mini truck-in with vanners from CIV & Three Trails Vans camping together every year at the campground attached to the fairgrounds. The car enthusiasts at this event are very dedicated & it seems like they line up earlier every year trying to get in and grab a spot on main street. We hadn't even gone to bed Friday night and they already had a long line up to the gate. We prefer to stay up late enjoying the company of our friends but still manage to get a good spot when we head down for the show. Lots of shade, a building with a/c, fireworks show & plenty of vendors & good food.

It's a 3 day event and even then we don't usually see everything that is here with usually over 3,000 vehicles to check out, a swap meet and several buildings with vendors. We thought Keith surprised us and showed up after-all at the event (see orange panel truck above) but it was a look-alike. The early Econo belongs to a guy out of Des Moines and we run into him every year at this event. Haven't talked him into a van event...yet! Before this van he owned a very kewl VW bus with a tie-dyed interior.
Leaving the event on Sunday Rick and I took a detour to John Wayne's birthplace to check out the Legend and get some pics. It was donated to the museum when it went up for sale at the Barrett Jackson auction in Scottsdale, AZ. They have someone that comes over every week to maintain it and it's driven regularly in parades. Rick went in and talked to the ladies running the museum store and gave them some history on it. Turns out some Vans Am ladies were there earlier in the year also. The ladies told Rick they were so excited to see it they practically hugged the van LOL

Tammy & Rick Kenney
Hy-Rollin Vans, Three Trails Vans

For more pictures check out the HOAVC Facebook page & HOAVC.org

Stayin' Alive hosted by CITA

2011-10-02T21:42:00.001-05:00

Well thought I would do a brief right up of CITA truckin 35 and Stayin Alive, princess and I left around 2:30 Friday and met up with Rocco and we were on our way got there around 5:00 and the grounds were full already. I saw right off the bat Bluegrass, Hy Rollin, County Line and Fast Lane all the others were in the back. In our site we had Jerry, LaLa, "G"Roller, Carla, Rocco, Rolando's and Keith and Dawn from Vantasia we broke out camp and dug into a fresh batch of Apple Pie YUM!!! We quickly got caught up with the ones who had been there a while lol..lol.. we headed up to the the vendor (CITA) got some food and listened to the band which was great there was a female singer that just nailed every song from Michael Jackson to Sugarland and mixed up great, there were plenty of people dancing and enjoying the beautiful summer evening.

After a very late night we awoke around 8:30 and had some breakfast from vendor and proceeded to get the van ready for show and shine, once again we started our party with having beers around 10:30.. and enjoying the show, games started at 1:00 with the Vanatics hosting the first game lawn chair volleyball which was a hit and of course we had our traditional Lemonade Stand which managed to go thru 11 gallons!!

Following that was CITA games "Masterbate Open" and "Balloon Toss" after the games we had enough time to relax then dinner which is very good and free from our host. All that is required is everyone brings a covered dish. After dinner was trophy time with yours truly getting first place GMC and Lil Ed (Special Ed) getting Best of Show - Congrats!! The rest of the evening was spent talking to friends, more Apple Pie, the Brite and Shine and the band Shovel Head that played for Bluegrass they rocked it pretty good. We left around 8:30 Sunday morning but still smiling as we thought about the great weekend we had and looking forward to Fast Lane August 26th hope to see some of you there....

Darrin Bentley
Vanatics Van Club

Summer Blast 1 hosted by MASVA

2011-08-15T16:33:00.000-05:00

This was MASVA's first event after hosting the Nats in Altamont. The ride out was eventful as a strong storm rode along with us all the way out there. In an early - not fun!! By the time we got there and got set up the pool party was winding down, in fact we heard Steve Ashley had already headed off to bed. Something about gatorade drinks and ashtrays I think LOL... However there were still a few out there keeping the party going and Noone's Tunes were still going strong.

Saturday they had a lot planned for everyone including a cruise & show n shine in town and a wine tasting tour. We started out the morning playing games. As usual Keith & Joyce were quite inventive with what they had planned for us. After that we headed out for the cruise and public show n shine. The town wasn't very big but they had a decent turn out. We were parked next to a restaurant/bar named Frumpy Joe's that served good food.

While everyone was checking out the vans we walked thru town and checked out the stores and a small swap meet. Ted (Blue Eagle) gave us a bit of a scare and he had to check in to the hospital overnight but nothing serious and he was released the next day we heard.

Several people went on the wine tour and it sounds like they had a good time and enjoyed getting the commemorative wine glass. Phrog hosted wine tasting as usual that night. There was a live band after trophy presentation and they were good. Everyone was dancing and they played music of all varieties.

Overall a fun event and looking forward to Summer Blast II next year!!

Tammy Kenney
Hy-Rollin Vans/3 Trails Vans

Spring Fever "Vanners Gone Wild" hosted by Vantasia Vans

2011-07-30T21:32:00.002-05:00

Vantasia Vans goes out of their way to make sure their event is memorable and this year was no exception. From their Goody Bags to the live bands and Saturday margarita bar everything they do makes sure you have a good time at their event. Numbers were down from previous years but I think it was due to the rising costs in gas. All year long Vantasia has been going to events promoting their Vanners Gone Wild theme with different drinks...all quite tasty.

We got there Friday after work and from what I heard Texas started partying early with Art making sure everyone tried at least one double bubble. He always looks so innocent with that smile on his face - not!! Last I heard he went thru 4 bottles of Jim Beam. It was a late night for all with a lot of dancing going on and hanging out with good friends.

Saturday started out with Show n Shine and kids games. The biggest class in the show seemed to be Astro vans. I would not have wanted to judge that class! Mr. Bill was parked up on the corner making sure no one went thirsty. Vanatics also promoted their Groundhog event with a "lemonade" stand that afternoon. Later in the afternoon it was off to the pool party for margaritas and adult games. They even had a costume contest/parade for all the dogs at the event.

Trophy presentation started right after dinner. Had a pretty good storm hit after trophies. The sky turned green and it got pretty windy but it cleared up in time for the partying to continue into the wee hours of the morning.

Another great event and it makes me wonder what their theme will be for 2012??!!

Click to view more event pictures

Tammy Kenney
Hy-Rollin Vans/Three Trails Vans

Vanniversary 37 hosted by Central IA Vanners

2011-07-28T21:49:00.000-05:00

If you've never been to CIVs truck-in you should try and make it out some time. It's always a fun time! The event is held at the Jasper County Fairgrounds in Colfax, IA the 1st weekend of May usually. Due to the flooding of the grounds last year the party was moved into the barn next to where it's usually held.

There was a DJ playing on Friday night and the shot bar was the place to be.

Show n shine was the next morning. There were about 10 vans in the show. Ed & Jo Ann Gray from County Line debuted the new paint job on their van - very nice!!

Carson was there pinstriping again this year and Gary & Jean took advantage of it.

Games followed the Show n Shine as well as the annual caravan to somewhere interesting. This year it was the Tulip Festival in Pella, IA. I couldn't talk Rick into it going this time since we had gone there before so we stuck around the grounds and relaxed.

Trophy presentation came later that night followed by wine tasting and a live band.
Thanks CIV for putting on another great event!

Tammy & Rick Kenney
Hy-Rollin Vans &
Three Trails Vans

3 Fingers In hosted by Vanarchy Vans & Vans R Us

2011-06-19T17:09:00.001-05:00

Vanarchy Vans hosted their 2nd event in April of this year. The first back in October at Hooter's at the Legends, here in Kansas City.

This time it was at the newly done Ranch Bowling alley in Kansas City, KS. They teamed up with Van R US from Topeka, Kansas to host a Show-n-Shine and Bright & Shine.

They had games in the parking lot along with Vans & Trucks showing off their rides. Their theme was Three Fingers In. It took me a while to figure out what they were talking about. It's hell to get old!! The bowling alley offered $1/game bowling and had Snack bar and grill with a full liquor bar. And that's were the Three Fingers In came from.

There were close to 30 vehicles about 50/50 on vans as well as trucks. Everyone enjoyed checking out each others rides and additions they have made over the winter and spring months.

I didn't stay the results in the show, so I'm not sure of the winners. But as far as I'm concerned the real winners are Vanarchy & Vans R US for hosting this event. Thank to both groups and keep up the good work.

Nooner
Vantasia Vans

Van Fair South hosted by Lone Star Van Club

2011-04-10T22:09:00.003-05:00

April 1st, 2nd, 3rd. 2011 Lone Star Vans hosted XXXIII at Lake Texoma right on the Oklahoma / Texas border. One week after Freeze-Out and 30 degree weather to the upper 80's. This year’s theme was April Fools Truck-in.

Several Vantasia members made the trip down south. The retirees left on Thursday morning, Jack & Carol and Wick. They made a pit stop at Bill and Patty's in Grove, Oklahoma. I think they also made a donation to the Indian Nation (casinos). Becky and I, Keith rode down on Thursday night after work and met them at Bill & Patty's.

Friday it was up and on the road again, like a band of vanners we go down the highway. 69 HWY. lickety split as Carol would say. We arrived at the grounds around 1 PM. Charlotte was busy getting things ready for the event. It was held at a State Park so there was a curfew on the music to turn it down low at 10 and off at 10:30. I was playing both nights.

We got set up and started visiting with our friends from the south. It was good to see Harry and Linda there from their southern residence. They are making their way back up north for the summer.

Later that afternoon the partying began. We were drinking Jim Beam out of the bubble not thinking about tomorrow. There were those who fall down on a regular basis, and then there's Becky who fell face down and skinned and bloodied her nose and bruised her legs. She blamed it on the oversized ant hills. I think the double bubbles had something to do with it. After the park ranger made his 3rd trip by, I figured I better shut down the music. It didn't stop the campsite to campsite parties, especially at Art & Ginna's camp where Jim Beam was still going strong. I guided Carol back to our camp to find Becky hugging a tree.

Saturday brought a new day and some old friends showed up to make it even more special. Ray & Star showed up around 12. Ray has been fighting cancer and going through chemotherapy. He looked good considering all that he has been going through. They both have lost a lot of weight. Later that afternoon Bandit showed up, He hadn't been there in several years.

Donnie was in charge of their games, the first being horse shoes where everyone had to throw 4 shoes and who ever had the highest score won. The girls complained it was too far so they shortened the throw for them. I was tied for first till then. Out of nowhere Becky threw two ringers and a close one 7 points which took first and Carol with 5 points for 2nd place. Wick was busy cleaning up the Nemo Van for the show-in-shine , which paid off for the Best Overall award. Congrats to Wick. Long Distance is something I have never won at a Texas Truck-in and as usual it went to someone from Texas. This year it went to Harry & Linda Hughs at 670 miles to our 475. Everything is bigger in Texas including the State itself, and ant hills according to Becky. Jack took 2nd in the tennis ball golf game. After the games it was time to get everyone's dish for the pot luck dinner. Lone Star provided the meat: a Turkey, Brisket, Ham and Ribs. Marty & Joyce smoked all the meat on their custom made Texas style smoker. Everyone else brought desserts, salads, potatoes, corn and all the other southern style fixin's. I have to say the food was great. Then came the awards and some group photos of the present Lone Star Van Club. I reminded everyone to come up and party early before Yogi Bear the Ranger shut us down.

Ray & Star left as he was getting tired, and He said he would see us all at Spring Fever. I told him not to worry about coming, to stay home and get well. He said they would be there if the doctor said it was ok. I told all the Texas Vanners how much it meant to our club last year when they as the Texas Van Federation brought 10 vans up to Spring Fever. For those who have never made it down to one of Texas Van events, you don't know what you’re missing. They are so glad to see out of state vans & vanners. And I know I have said it before, there's a lot of truth in the words Southern Hospitality. I have never had a bad time at a truck-in, regardless of what part of the country it is in and van-in is different in its own way. Sure they all have Van's but the truth is, it's about the people, the friendships that you make across the country, the traveling down the highway with vans in front of you and behind you, it’s a lifestyle we all love.

As the party went on during the night there was a new twist to the double bubble with Bloody Marys inside them. The result is still the same, lots of drunks out wandering around. Wick, Carol & Keith outlasted the rest of us by staying up way past curfew. Sunday it was time to say goodbye and head home.

We had to make a pit stop in Pittsburgh , Kansas to meet a old vanner who called me while at the truck-in. Gary McCabe from Vanomite Van Club. He is getting a few old members back into vanning and wanted some flyers, so we met him and I gave him some from my collection of events throughout the summer and fall. Hope to see them at some van-in's. Gas prices varied the cheapest in Pryer, Oklahoma at $ 3.29 to 3.59 in several places throughout the trip. Lone Star thank you all for a great time, and the warm weather and the southern wind blowing us back home on Sunday. See you all down the road.

Don Noone / Vantasia Vans.

Freeze Out 2011 hosted by Three Trails Vans

2011-04-10T16:09:00.001-05:00

Through Rain, Sleet and Snow, 29 dedicated Vans and Vanners came for a weekend of fun, & friendship on March 25, 26 and 27, 2011 at Eagleville Mo. Attendance was a little down from last year probably due to the weather.

When I arrived there was the usual bonfire and several hands to help me unload the DJ equipment. Very much appreciated, I might say. TTV made the party room a little smaller to keep the heat in. The usual fixin's - Chili and hot dogs, free beer and shot bar. I will say we did miss Big Mike’s dog stand. But mostly we missed Mike and Wanda. With the room smaller it not only kept the heat in but the after affects of the chili. It seems to happen every time a certain person entered the room. I won't mention her name but she wore a crash helmet and loves to dance to camel toe song.

We were also missing several other vanners for specific reasons. Gary & Jean Shoulders had already planned to miss this year for their 50th wedding anniversary trip to Hawaii. There was almost a sudden change of plans when Gary wasn't feeling well and went to the hospital. He ended up having to have a stint installed. The doctor released him just in time for the trip with a few stipulations he could go on the trip. Not to overdo it and not to carry anything over ten pounds. So Jean had to haul the luggage and help him go to the bathroom, Ha! Ha! (just kidding). Our thoughts and prayers were with them. Congrats on the 50th and hope you have a lot of fun. Back at the truck-in we were also missing someone that had became an icon around the fire and that was Vince Eckmam who passed away last year. Gone but not forgotton.

Jeff and Cindy and Raoul came from Colorado and received long distance award and some cash donated by Mike Phillips after winning the 50-50 pot he donated half to them for the long haul. I had planned to drive the chevy van, but with the forecast I ended up driving the suburban. It was a little hard to sleep in. Becky didn't make the trip due to her pussy cat being very sick. Taz & Jill also made a long haul from up north and Matt and Sherri from IL.

At the HOAVC meeting CIV filled everyone in on the progress of Colfax, Iowa fairgrounds where their event and HOAVC will be held. Despite the weather conditions I think everyone had a good time. And although they are not the only ones that fight the elements, Three Trails deserves a big round of applause for keeping a truck-in tradition alive. Now we just need them to deliver the mail.

Thanks Don Noone / Vantasia

Vanatics's 36th Annual Groundhog Party

2011-03-12T21:01:00.000-06:00

Vanatic's hosted their 36th Annual Groundhog Party this year at a new location other than Springfield, Ill. This year event was in Raymond, Ill. Between St. Louis and Springfield, Ill. On 55 Hwy. This year it was two day event held on Friday Feb. 25th & Saturday the 26th 2011.

Their theme was Vanner's in Paradise. The Hotel was a Best Western Carlinville Inn. It was decorated in a Nautical Theme with a moat and a old large riverboat outside the hotel. Inside also very nice, with nice rooms. The staff was great and I think they enjoyed the Vanners so much they wanted to join Vanatic's Club. There was a bar in the hotel also a very nice restaurant that had a free buffet every morning, and specials on lunch and dinner.

Most of the Vanner's spent a lot of time at the large indoor pool. That's where Vanatic's hosted the Friday night pool party with free beer, bikini contest & music by yours truley (Noone's Tunes). I was scheduled to quit at 11:30 but the hotel let us play until 12:00. There was a men's & women's bikini contest and three contestants in each class. Some dressed in the traditional suits but there were others that didn't. Needless to say now that Jack Lynch is retired, he and Carol have too much time on their hands, enough to put together their very own outfits. They were the winners in both classes. Carol was also awarded a special prize. That being a bicycle helmet. If you know Carol she has a tendency to fall down a lot. Well Vantatic's put together this special helmet with decals such as Tumbalena on it. It was quit comical.

Saturday morning it was off to the free breakfast and then the tour to a local brewery & winery which a lot of vanners went to. I stayed back and watched the K-State - Missouri Basketball game. That afternoon they had their famous Lemonade party around the pool from 2-4 which ended up going til 5. They had raffles why I played the tune's. They also had games around the pool such as beer pong, and the limbo, which Patti Zweigel won. Could it be because she is short? Ha! Ha! Not sure who won the beer pong.

That night around 8 the band started playing tunes from today and yesteryear. They gave more door prizes and special awards. Long distance, Club participation which both went to Vantasia. Cindy Lou flew in from Colorado and Bill and Patti drove up from Oklahoma. Jack & Carol and Bill Wickersty rode with Becky and I, Keith & Dawn & their friends Scott & Janet rode together.

Hopefully Vanatic's will do the two day event again next year, and everyone that attended can spread the word how much fun it was. Sunday came too soon and it was time to head home. On the way home we found out that Mike Philips mother's funeral was that afternoon instead of on Saturday. After we dropped Jack & Carol off we decided to stop by to pay our respects to Mike and his family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Phillip's and their family.

Next up Three Trail Freeze Out and I hope to see you all there!!

Don Noone

Council of Councils 2011 Recap by Don Noone

2011-03-05T20:19:00.000-06:00

On Feb. 18th- 19th Left Coast Vanners hosted the C of C at Buena Park, California. The Hotel was a Radisson and was very nice. The rooms were suites, and when we walked out our door to the balcony we were surrounded by palm trees and plants. Becky and I arrived on Wednesday night late but there were still a few vanner's up visiting and partying. Thursday we got up early, for us when we are on vacation, but Left Coast had plenty of things planned for the day. We went down to the free breakfast , which they made to order or buffet. It was great and there were lots of vanner's that we hadn't seen in a year. At 9:30 everyone was meeting to line up for the George Barris Shop & Peterson Museum Tour. We had rented a van so Cindy & Jeff rode with us, and we followed Darren and the rest of the Vanatic's club. At G.B. we saw the Munster's car from the TV show. And the Batmobile.

We decided to skip the museum and find a beach, where the girls decided to walk in the sand and water. Then were off to Beverly Hills, Hollywood, and Rodeo Blvd. There were many sights to see. The one that stood out to me was the women walking her miniture groomed pony the size of a dog. It was time to head back for the Nationals board meeting at 4:00 PM. We left at 3 and still was a few minutes late. The traffic was unreal on the highways. One of our tasks at hand was to try and replace Wacko's spot on the board. Tim was promoted to that spot, which now left his spot open. We interviewed several prospective vanners. It was decided to put all of them on a list of support staff for the Nat's Board so they can work with us at the Nat's this year and then vote one of them in next year at C of C.

That night they had a free happy hour at the hotel from 5-7 top notch alcohol and beer. They had no idea what vanners could consume. Matchstick (Dave) unveiled a new Vanner"s Magazine to be put out twice a year. All color pages and very impressive, at the low cost of just $5. He also showed his newest project fiberglass gull wing doors. This young vanner is great for vanning. His desire to promote vanning and make things for vans is great.

On Friday there were several seminars for vanner's to participate in. At 2PM Nat's. Board meeting and bids for 2012 Van Nationals. We only received one bid and that was from Wisconsin vanners, they have put together a good group of vanners and I think they will do a great job. The grounds is the same as Hy-Rollin's and will be more than sufficient. It was talked about letting RV"s in that pull a van, they will not be allowed to park with vans, but may park in a designated area. This is up the host club whether they will allow them. And far as someone pulling a fifth wheel in they have to be in there before the Nat's. start. The reason these items were talked about, both have been happening the last few years. Also it was asked if clubs could compile a mailing list from there local Van-In's of attendees e-mail and mailing addresses that the Nationals could use for getting flyers out to more vanner's across the country. I thought this was a great idea. I know we passed our mailing list on to Michigan after Hard Core Vanners hosted the Nat's in 2003. I got out of the meeting too late to go on the round up to Hooter's. At 8PM that night the PJ Party and Band started along with Beach Blanket Bingo in the ballroom.

Saturday, at 4:30AM they had a thing called the Donut Derelict Cruise to a local donut shop where several California street rodder's show up . I wasn't able to get up that early but I was told that sometimes several hundred show up and once in a while Jay Leno or Chip Foose shows up.

At 9:30 the Council meeting starts, I didn't set in for HOVAC cause someone else was already representing HOVAC. At 10 Vans that had driven to C of C or the local clubs started showing up in the parking lot for the Van Show which started at 1PM . Several really nice Vans, but the one that stood out to me the most was the Early Ford Van. It wasn't completed yet but what was done was unbelievable. Look for it in Truck-in Magazine or Hot Rod Magazine. Both were there for the show.

That night it was time to party and say good by to our vanner friends from across the country. Their theme for the party was Hooray for Hollywood, and several vanner's dressed as there favorite actor or actress. Dam I should have brought my Pirate outfit, Ha! Ha!. Sunday it was goodbye California and hello Kansas where the weather had been in the 70's while We were gone. We had to make one detour to Chicago with Howard, Chooie, Jeff, and Sonya and a few other vanner's that were switching planes to their final destinations. If there were an Oscar to be given this year for a great host, location, and very well organized. Left Coast Vanners would have taken home the lot of them. Hope to see everyone at local van-in's and the Nationals in Ohio, and next year at C of C in St. Petersburg , Florida.

Don Noone

The Lynchs Go to H.A.V.E. & H.A.V.E.N.O.T.S,' High Five Truck-In

2010-10-29T21:13:00.008-05:00

Held on september 10th - 12th, 2010

H.A.V.E. & H.A.V.E.N.O.T.S. held their 5th annual truck-in (High Five) in Cripple Creek, CO at Lost Burro Campground. Beautiful scenery and a great time thanks to all from H.A.V.E. & H.A.V.E.N.O.T.S. vans. The beer was flowing from the time we arrived til the time we left.

Vanatics Van Club sponsored their famous lemonade stand and it was fanstaic as always just ask Carol. Oh speaking of Carol, we had her wearing a crash helment because she has been falling down quite a bit lately. Jerry and Laura from Vanatics have a picture. We also have another crash and burn victim to mention, it's Courtney from Vantaics. She did a belly flop/superwomen stunt down the mountaiin of the hill she is now know as "Baby Carol", so now they are Tumblelina 1 & 2!

All in all we had a great time, Mr. Bill from Wisconsin supplied his bloody marys on Saturday morning. I myself cooked a large pot of veggie beef soup for us, Vantacis and whomever was hungry. On Saturday, myself and Carol sold 50/50 tickets for Summer Blast on June 10-12. We gave away $56.00 & 1 pre-entry to the truck-in. It was won by Jeston Dizmang from Arvada, CO. We also picked up a new member to MASVA, Clint Dizmang.

Thanks again Jeff, Cindy and Gale for another super time in Colorado and can't wait again til next year.

Jack Lynch
MASVA member, Vantasia Vans of Kansas City

Thanks to Jim LeSage for the use of the photos he took!

Vantasia Vans heads to Fast Lanes Vans "29th Verse" Truck-in

2010-10-25T22:02:00.000-05:00

Aug..27th,28th, and 29th th. 2010 were the dates for Fast Lanes Vans 29th Verse Truck-in. Their theme was Attitude Adjustment. The weather was great, 90's during the day and 60's at night. A 450 mile one way trip for us, but we desided to break it up by leaving on Thursday night and driving to Hannibal, MO. where we spent the night.

Next morning Carol & Jack called us from their room bright and early to get us on the road to Penfield, IL. As we're driving Steve Ashley called and said he wasn't feeling to well and would not make the trip. I latter heard he ended up going to the hospital. Hope everything is okay.

We got there about noon to set up camp next to Tank, Linda & Patti, and Whap. We were able to save some good spots across the road from us for Three Trails and Central Iowa Vans. All three clubs had a good turn out. Our new members Keith and Dawn set up next to us and Wick & Karen. Keith and Dawn and their friends Scott & Janet brought all kinds of ice cream & alcohol for blender drinks. They had a happy hour and lots of Vanners came by. As it was ending, Fast Lanes was opening their shot bar, and for me it was time start spinning the tunes.
The party lasted till one in the morning. Not as late as last years 2am. Not sure exactly why it didn't last as long this year. Could have been because those Cason's weren't able to make it.

On Saturday it was time for kids and adult games. This years bingo was held with beans instead of corn. Which made all the girls in Fast Lanes happy, they didn;t have to shuck any corn this year. Rick Duvall may not be as happy, he may be eating beans for a while. After the games Vanatic's held their famous Lemonade Stand for everyone to enjoy. Ask Henry from CITA if he enjoyed them. Saturday night brought the awards and the band. They were a very good classic rock band. Becky had a good time visiting with Princess Rita and all the girls sitting around our camp. Carol was in rare form both nights falling down several times, it must have been those new shoes. Thanks Keith & Darren for putting her to bed.

They had three vendors Tank & Linda, Vantee's and a Sandy and Blue Jay from Wisconsin selling food. Well Sunday came and it was time to hit the road again. I'm sure all 59 Vans that attended had a great time, and from all of us to all of Fast Lanes Vans. Thank You Nooner

Click here to view more pictures.

Don Noone / Vantasia Vans

Northwestern Vanners Truck-In

2010-10-25T20:22:00.000-05:00

I attended the annual truck-in of Northwestern Vanners at the Preston, MN fairgrounds on August 13, 14 and 15 for the first time. Upon arriving at the fairgrounds I was impressed with the appearance of, and the location of the site (downtown Preston).

The club members extended a great degree of hospitality, and by Saturday evening managed to get 36 vans registered. Friday night was bingo in the large enclosed building while Saturday morning was the usual show-n-shine and bright-n-shine that evening. Saturday evening the band was going strong. I can’t remember whether they were called the Lug Nuts, Head Bolts or something like that. I can say its hell to get old, while trying retaining your memory. Friday and Saturday the club members were grilling and serving food for the convenience of anyone who was hungry.

Go to their truck-in (Chill Out Up By The Pole) next year, you won’t be sorry.

Bob Wagner
Vantasia Vans of KC

38th National Truck-in - July 2010 - Greenwich NY

2010-10-24T22:46:00.000-05:00

Starved Rock State Park Campground in IL

Rick and I took off from GoodGuys in Des Moines and started our trip out to the Nationals in NY in our '64 Ford Econoline pulling our pop-up camper. We did a little sightseeing along the way. Our first night we spent in IL at Starved Rock State Park. Had a great breakfast at the Lodge and headed out. Breezed thru Indiana and when we got to Ohio we decided to take some back roads along the lake. Planned to go to the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame but it was closed by the time we got close. We stopped on our 2nd night at Geneva State Park in Ohio. Really pretty scenery on these backroads. Wish we had more time to look around. Would have loved to go through the Carousel Museum.

Rest Area we stopped at in NY overlooking lake

Tuesday we were off into NY and closing in on the Nationals. We decided to take the scenic interstate along the south part of NY. Very scenic - not a wise decision! One of the bumpiest, under construction interstates I've ever been on. Does not make for a fun ride, especially in an early Ford! We were also fighting warmer than normal temps in NY. In fact record breaking heat which caused the van to overheat and could not use the A/C most of the time. We had planned to spend another night in a state park but by then all we wanted to do was set up camp and relax so we pushed on to the Nats.

Howard, Ken and some of the others we usually park with saved us a nice spot with everyone. No shade, other than ez ups but a nice spot close to everything going on. Last time we were in NY for a Nats I remembered colder than normal weather. Not this year! Record breaking heat!! Ed & JoAnn were life savers with the misters they had set up under Tim & Suzanne's canopy. Mr. Bill's pool & blender seemed pretty busy too. I spent my time by the mister while Rick sat in Nats Board meetings. There was a caravan into town one night. Pretty good turnout and the town definitely took notice.
Show n Shine classifying took place Thursday & Friday so both days busy for us. Quite a few people stepped up to help with judging the vans on Friday. It would have been a long day without their help. Virtual promoted vannin.com and they had a meet n greet up by the band building along with the Nats board one night that was fun. Doc was serving hot dogs and they had beer in memory of Wacko for everyone. Drop Jaw magazine was there covering the event. This is the first time Rick and I had the opportunity to meet them. Very impressed with their coverage and how much they participated and enjoyed the event. Saw several vans we'd never seen before.

Best of Show 2010

Saturday afternoon we spent watching the burnout contest followed by trophy presentation later that day. Best of Show went to Alpine Express owned by Gary Larson.
We left after trophies for the long drive home stopping somewhere in NY at a rest area to sleep in the van for awhile before continuing on our way home. Made it as far as Crawfordsville, IN and decided to spoil ourselves with a hotel room for our last night on the road.
Overall it was a great time although very hot. I don't know though that I would do this long a trip again in our early. By the time we got back we had put over 3200 miles on the early Ford and we were worn out!!

Grilled Cheese Sandwich Night - Yummy!

Be sure to check out the coverage from:
Drop Jaw Magazine Article Pictures
Truck-In Magazine Article and Pictures
More pictures out on our website. Click here.

Rick & Tammy Kenney / 3 Trails Vans / Hy-Rollin Vans

GoodGuys Show - Des Moines IA : July 2010

2010-10-23T17:25:00.001-05:00

Central IA Vans encouraged us to attend this event a few years ago to help promote vanning and we've been going ever since. It's one of my favorite shows to go to and if you're looking for parts, the supply is endless between the vendors and the swap meet. The nice thing about this location is that we are able to camp in the campgrounds attached to the state fairgrounds. It's almost become like a mini truck-in with the amount of vanners attending the past few years.

This year Taz and Jill went out on Monday (show didn't start til Friday) and started saving spots for about 14 of us. Not an easy task with as many people that have started camping there. Rick and I rolled in on Thursday. They got us a prime camping spot, level and on the road so we could watch all the street rods roll by. I still can't get used to the cars starting up at 3am to get in line to get into the grounds in hopes of parking on main street. Being at this fairgrounds has many advantages. A large building with a/c to get out of the heat, tons of food vendors, lots of shade, 3,500+ vehicles to look at and some of the best fireworks I've seen in awhile.

Andy and Mary bring their boss's cars to the show from his car museum. They've also been kind enough to give us several private tours of the museum. Saturday we usually BBQ with everyone back at camp or over at one of CIV's homes along with a dip in their pool to cool down. Always makes for a fun time.
This year Andy spoiled some of us on Friday and a few of us ladies got to drive the show cars back up to camp. I got the El Camino...VERY nice!! A few of the men decided to also try the autocross this year. The announcer loves vans and has a website called bangshift.com They were very impressed with us. Check out the coverage from Saturday.

While everyone else went home after this event, Rick and I continued on our vacation to the Nationals in NY.

Des Moines, IA World of Wheels

2010-10-23T15:06:00.000-05:00

Promoting Vanning with Central Iowa Vans, and Dave, Debbie, and Dale La Rue.

Some of the pictures were taken from above behind glass that's why they may be a blurred.

Don & Becky Noone

E-Z Life Vans - Lay Back & Boogie

2010-10-22T21:39:00.000-05:00

E-Z-Life once again held their Lay Back & Boogie at Eagle Ridge RV Park, With around 40 Vans in attendance a good time was had by all.

Most of the time was spent around the pool where Jack & Carol, and Bea & Mike kept the blender drinks and the paint cans coming, while E-Z- Life had the games in or around the pool. The weather was great.
This my first time that I had a chance to meet the new Campground owners. They were very nice and hospitable. I played the tune's till 2am on Friday night's party and 1am Saturday night while Tank & Linda sold their blinky lights and jewelry. I heard there was a after hours party at the pool.

Sunday we woke up to a little rain and headed home. Thanks to E-Z- Life members and their support staff for another great time.

Don Noone / Vantasia Vans

View more pictures from this event.

Spring Fever #33 - Thank You from Vantasia Vans

2010-10-22T21:16:00.000-05:00

Vantasia Vans would like to thank everyone that attended Spring Fever # 33. This year’s theme was Graduation. Our event always lands on someone's graduation. So we decided it was time we graduated too! We had 135 Vans plus our club in attendance. This year we decided to offer a Vanner's Stimulus Package. If you had never been to Spring Fever you were allowed to come in for free. 22 Vans sent in for the stimulus, and out of those 16 showed up and 2 have pre-entered for next year. One of those that took advantage was Judith Pilon from Florida. This adds another State to a list of States that have attended Spring Fever. She received long distance USA and International went to George Spadafore from Canada. Thank You both, along with all the others who traveled so far. Texas had over 10 Vans in attendance. Colorado also had several Vans that had never been to our event. Other States in attendance were, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Michigan, Arkansas, Iowa, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Oklahoma. Thank You all.

Judith - Long Distance USA

George - Long Distance International

This year’s event was dedicated in memory of Jo Ann Large (Jaws Van). Jo Ann passed away the week of our truck-in. JoAnn and Bob Large have been members of Vantasia Vans for over 30 years. This year has been hard on Vanners with the passing of Vince Eckman from Mixed Bag Truckers and Paul (Wacko) Wack from the Nat's. Board. Our thoughts and prayers go out to their families as well as their Vanner families. They will be missed and never forgotten.

Nats Board at Work

This year we had new leadership with Kent Ragland running the show. I think he did a great job. Next year’s theme has already been decided on, and we are working on the flyer. Our theme is "Vanners Gone Wild."

View more pictures from Spring Fever
Hope to see you all soon at a Van-In
Don Noone / Vantasia Vans

VANFEST 15, June 11th - 13th 2010 by Don & Becky Noone

2010-10-22T20:11:00.000-05:00

Becky and I and the Pirate ship set off for a 12 hour hunt, 833 miles from our house to Aylmer, Ontario, Canada. We left Kansas City on Wednesday night, driving north to 36 hwy and heading east. Our goal was to make it to Springfield, IL. Well after 3 close calls with the local deer, we decided to call it a night in Pittsfield, IL. The next morning we left early and headed north towards Canada. That afternoon I was getting tired of driving and Becky offered to drive for a while and I told her what highway to watch for but needless to say, I woke up about an hour later to see the skyline of Chicago. I said oh no!!! and she pulled over and I got back into the driver's seat and back into the right direction. We did laugh and we did get to see some nice sights in LaGrange, IL. That evening we crossed the border at Port Huron, MI and with about 3 hours to go to get to the truck-in. We arrived there about midnight and George Spadafore (Teabag) a fellow vanner and long time friend was waiting at the gate for us. He got there that morning and set up his camper so we would not need to bring ours and save on some gas.

The next morning George and I went to town to wash the bugs off the van and then we went to H.B. Cal Trade & Arts School. George's friend is the auto body teacher. They arranged for me to bring the Pirate Van there to show the students and that alone was worth the trip. To see their faces and listen to their comments, like that makes me want to get a van. We then returned to the Truck-in and Becky was getting the VIP tour of the campgrounds from Howard and Tim. At that time the vans and trucks were pouring in thru the gate and yes I said trucks. I was not sure how that would work out but I heard nothing but good things about the combination. After the weekend progressed and I talked and watched some of the the truck participants, they reminded us of ourselves (vanners) 20 years ago. Everyone got along great and some of the trucks were very nice. With 336 vans & trucks in attendance and 156 in the show-n-shine and I believe that was a new record. George and I were asked to help judge two classes in the truck class. It was fun but boy did I get sunburned. The temp. was in the upper 80's during the day and in the 60's during the night.

Saturday night after the awards, they had a light-n-brite with both vans and trucks showing off their lighting. Taz & Jill had their van in both shows, after having a little trouble 20 miles into Canada. Taz lost his rear axle and some vanners arranged a trailer to get it to the campgrounds. Taz had his son bring his truck, trailer and his car on the trailer to the border along with a new axle. His son drove his car back home and Taz brought the trailer back to haul the van home and needless to say he received the hard luck award and several others. Taz & Jill took 2nd place early van, Best Mural and 3rd in the brite -n-shine. Becky and I also were fortunate to win a couple of awards. Becky doesn't normally show her emotions but she did and when I saw that I did as well. Everyone asked if we had a good time and enjoyed the bands and the truck-in. The answer to all their questions were YES, and if we would come back. I told them I could not next year but would love to after I retire so I can spend more time up there.
The next morning we left for George's place, 174 miles north to his place at Wiarton, Ontario. It took us about 4 hours to get there because there is no straight shot or major highway. It was a very scenic drive thru several small towns, right on Georgian Bay. George was a great host and Becky did not have to cook at all and he made some great ribs with a little hometown BBQ sauce on them (Wyandotte BBQ from hometown) His place is kind of out in the country with cows in back of his place and a stream running thru his land. They call it cottage country cause it's so close to the bay. He took us on several sightseeing tours, nature walks and scenic overlooks of the country and lakes. We went to a farmers market with lots of stuff for sale and Becky had a heyday looking and buying stuff to bring back. Tuesday night it was time to pack up and head home because I had to be back to work on Thursday. We took George out to dinner at a restaurant by the bay and the food was great. George gave us our directions back to Port Huron and the border. Our goal was to get back in the states and down past Detroit to miss the morning traffic and we did, making it to Lansing, MI. The drive down the coast along Lake Huron was breathtaking and the highways are clean and smooth, you never see any trash along them. Canada's gas prices and speed limits in KMS and gas in liters took some adjusting to. The next day we drove about 10 hours, going home a different route, down thru Indy to I-70 and home.

I would like to thank Kevin Lundy and his group for putting on a very well organized and very special event. Thanks also goes out to George (Teabag) for all of his hospitality at the campground and his home. It is truly amazing the friends that you make at Van-ins. You may change vans over the years but the memories and friends that you make can last a lifetime.

Don & Becky Noone
Pirate Van