Second National Rally Recap
September 19-23, 2007

	Dates:	September 19-23, 2007
	Location:	Nashville KOA Resort 2626 Music Valley Dr Nashville, TN 37214
	Hosts:	Logan and Andie Mathis

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Nashville, Tennessee is not only country music, but also boasts marvelous architecture and a rich American history. Superbly organized and hosted by Logan and Andie Mathis, the 2nd Born Free National Rally provided spectacular activities for the 75 coaches attending, including 15 first timers.

The first night get-acquainted wine and cheese and potluck dinner was a huge success. It was held at the on-site Music Barn, the scene of musical shows each night. The next day we enjoyed a guided bus tour of the city landmarks, including the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Centennial Park with its Greek-influenced architecture, the full-scale Parthenon replica, the many reminders of Nashville's pioneer beginnings. The tour ended at Honky Tonk Row for some live country music.

The next day we were shuttled to the "General Jackson Showboat" for a mid-day cruise on the Cumberland River and a sumptuous buffet and show. In the evening, buses took us to the Grand Ole Opry for a live performance. To witness this live radio show with its incredible mix of country music talent was to experience a uniquely American event.

Rally highlights included inspecting the four 2008 Born Free coaches on site, as well as the "open houses" at various coaches where one could marvel at various changes that our talented fellow Born Freers have made. Examples: barn-door style door for rear bath model, drawers added to once-open spaces, full body paint job, through-the-screen-door handle, spice cabinet mounted in "found" space between studs, HDTV-DVD antenna installation, and bi-fold door in place of the space-blocking full door.

Another highlight was the Tech Talk panel consisting of Mel Wilbur, Sab Sasaki, Bill Hemme, Bob Scott, Fred Nielsen and moderated by George Boley. So well-conducted, rumor has it that several brave techies from the Camping World next door sneaked in to pick up a few pointers.

During our membership meeting, conducted by President Mel Wilbur, the new slate of officers was elected, followed by the catered dinner, courtesy of Born Free.

John Dodgen cajoled us with his wit and led us in a peppy rendition of our signature song, "Born Free".

Greatly appreciated were the morning conversations over coffee and pastries, especially on the final morning as we bade farewell to everyone, friends all.

Prepared by Ann Sasaki.