ARIZONA
John & Kathleen Behrens (22573)
Arizona State Directors
Well, here we are in the time of year where the annual appearance of snow may blanket much of this beautiful country, we so enjoy in our Newmars. Many will have put their Newmar’s to bed for the winter, awaiting the appearance of the first sign of spring. Still others will have taken their rolling homes to the lands that are free of snow and some semblance of warmth prevails over the land. Regardless of where you are, we are certain you are preparing for the Holiday Season. We hope it will be full of family, friends, good food and laughter.
As the previous issue of Legacy was in print, the Arizona State Rally was underway in Yuma, Arizona. The weather then was the polar opposite of what it is today. What follows is a recap of the fun and adventures enjoyed by the rally attendees. It was written and pictures provided by JD Harris, a fellow Arizona Suncatcher member.
Taking the 111 Train to Yuma. When we signed up, most thought 111 was the time…NOT the temperature. Who knew? My it was hot, but we had a great time at Del Pueblo RV Resort in Yuma, Arizona. 
After a day of educational seminars and round table discussions, it was time to get out into the heat, so we all went straight to jail. That is, the Yuma Territorial Prison. Established in 1875, before Arizona was a state, the prison became known as the Country Club on the Colorado. While life was hard for prisoners, they had many amenities that even the townsfolk didn’t have.
One prisoner was sentenced to 5 years in the prison for “seduction,” which was a conviction for backing out of a wedding proposal. His choice was 5 years hard labor or 30-50 years of anniversaries. He was a model inmate. The best news is that all NKK members were paroled after the tour. 
Our tour of Martha’s Garden, a date farm, was fun, educational, and filling. Our guide gratefully showed us the steps of growing dates, and the difference between good and great dates. The tram ride really showed the intricate details of growing world class dates, and the date shake at the conclusion was awesome. 
After our group date, we went nuts. Last up was the Peanut Patch, where we learned about the process of growing and harvesting peanuts. Then we were treated to a taste of freshly ground peanut butter and witnessed the making of peanut brittle. Yum!!!
We enjoyed the camaraderie of our friends, the meals together and meeting new members while planning our next events. Coaches were washed, inside (tanks) and out for very reasonable prices. For the bargain price of $175 the coach and TOAD were washed and the coach waxed. For a mere $25 more, waxing the TOAD was a bonus making the deal a steal. Many of us will come back regularly for that alone.
Sport Truck RV, Mesa, Arizona provided a delicious Italian meal and Freedom RV, Tucson, Arizona provided a wonderful Mexican meal. Both dealers wowed us with several Newmar products and trailers. In addition, Kleen Tank and SkyMed hosted some great meetings.
As we look back, we may not remember the great Sonoran all beef (bacon wrapped) hot dogs, the nice RV park and staff, nor the blistering temperatures, but we will remember our friends and look forward to seeing and talking to them soon at our next rally, lunch or phone call. – JD Harris
Before finishing, I’d like to remind you to check the Newmar Kountry Klub website frequently and to add the Arizona Sun Catcher Rally to your 2025 travel schedule. This year’s rally is in Camp Verde, Arizona, April 7 – 11, 2025. They are planning some awesome events!
Kathleen and I wish you a wonderful Holiday Season and a very Happy New Year. We invite you to contact us if we can be of help or you wish additional information on traveling in Arizona or future rally plans. We can be reached at email NKK_AZstatedirectors@outlook.com or cell 425-765-2898.
