Arrival at our Michigan Samboree's - Parking
We welcome each of you here with us! By now you have met our parking staff and your rig has been parked in a suitable location. How the parking works is sometimes confusing, so here is a short explanation. The Parking Staff is headed by the Michigan Good Sam Wagonmaster, and is responsible for all rig movement, and parking of all rigs that participate in our Samboree's.
At the Spring and Fall Sambore's, we have what is known as "Hobo Parking". This means that the parking is first come, first served. If you wish to park with your chapter members or friends, you must all arrive together. Otherwise you are parked in a location selected by the Parking Staff, which is best suited for your style and size of recreational vehicle.
During the Summer Samboree, also known as the "State Samboree", we have what is know as "Block Parking."
This means that all Samboree participants who pre-register will have a reserved place with their chapter, no matter what time of day you arrive. Please note that pre-registration is required to have this reserved spot. Those who choose not to pre-register will be parked at the Wagonmaster's discretion. Pre-registration forms for future Michigan Samboree's is on our Website at WWW.Michigangoodsam.org or at the Dr. Sambones table usually located near the Hospitality Area at our Samboree's. There may also be some out of state rally forms located there also.
Parking is closed after dark, and during program times. If you arrive during these times, you will be placed in the "Bull Pen." Usually we have temporary electricity available here for you. Parking in the Bull Pen is only temporary, so don't get too comfortable. You will be parked in a more permanent spot as soon as parking re-opens. Once the Parking Staff has you parked in your assigned location, you must have the permission of the Wagonmaster before you may more your rig. This is for your safety as well as the safety of those around you.
Handicapped parking is available for those with a documented need. Please inform the Parking Staff when you check in and be prepared to show a doctor's letter of authorization for any special needs. We will do our best to accommodate your needs, but cannot guarantee that we can meet all needs. You WILL NOT be parked with your chapter if you need handicapped parking.
Towed vehicles must be unhooked and driven separately from your rig. Upon parking, your tow vehicle must be removed from your rig. This is to insure that it does not block fire lanes. Usually, a parking area for tow vehicles and towed vehicles will be designated by the Wagonmaster.
Arrival at our Michigan Samboree's - Utilities
If you need fresh water in your rig, please advise the parking staff when you check in. Your water tank will need to be filled prior to parking as potable water supplies are usually very limited in most fairgrounds. For your convenience and safety, we recommend that you carry your own water with you.
You will be parked in an area where electricity is available to you. This may be a fixed service such as a utility pole or building, or it may be a temporary service that is installed by our Engineering Staff. We do our best to get everyone close to an electrical source, but we encourage everyone to carry a minimum of 100 feet of extension cord. While connecting to any electrical service, please use the proper wire size and length of electrical cord. We ask that all participants carry 12 gauge or larger cord. Lighter weight cords often time will cause serious problems and may present a safety hazard. If you have any questions about proper cord sizing, our Engineering Staff will be happy to assist you. Refer to the "Michigan Good Sam Safety Guidelines" in this handbook for additional electrical safety information. If a power cord is in poor condition or of improper size is discovered in use, our engineering staff may disconnect you. They will do their best to notify you of the unsafe condition so that it may be corrected.
Electricity is usually in short supply. Because of this, we ask that you keep your draw of electricity to a minimum. Please set your refrigerator and water heater for propane use. Please do not operate appliances that draw large amounts of electricity such as electric heaters, air conditioning, electric fry pans, microwave ovens, coffee pots, etc... By keeping your electricity draw to a minimum, you may prevent an over draw situation which can cause a blackout of a large number of rigs, or damage to electrical systems.
Electrical systems at Samboree sites are controlled by our Engineering Staff. If you have a problem or a question with your electricity, please contact them to assist you. Available night lighting is turned on for your safety. Please do not tamper with any lighting or electrical circuits other than your own.
Arrival at our Michigan Samboree's - Registration
You will receive a registration card at the Check-In-Point. Please fill in ALL of the information accurately and in detail. This card is presented to the Registration Staff when you register at this Samboree, pick up your goodie-bag, and pay your Samboree fees. In addition to registration information, this card is used for our Security Staff or Response Team to locate you in emergency. By listing the type and size of your rig, the brand name of your rig, and the license plate number of your rig we will easily be able to locate you if needed. Our Registration Staff will check to sure your card is complete, so you might as well fill it out at your rig where the information is available. This information is transferred over from your pre-registration form you sent in, so if it was complete then your card will also be complete.
Registration is open daily as needed, usually 9 AM to 5 PM, except for lunch hour. Please check your program booklet for specific times per day. Please register as soon as possible upon your arrival. This will insure that if an emergency does occur, that we will know that you are on the grounds. The Registration Staff will be able to answer questions that you may have regarding fees or related issues.
Propane and waste dumping services are not always available. It is to your advantage to arrive with full propane tanks and empty waste tanks. When resources are available, we may have propane and / or waste dumping services. If so, sign up for this service at the registration area. You will be required to pay for these services, over and above the Samboree fee.
Michigan Samboree Activities
There are many things to do at our Michigan Samboree's. Each Samboree has a theme, around which the Samboree is planned. Feel free to wear theme related costumes or to decorate your rig with theme related decorations. Please refer to your program for specific events, times, and locations. Additional information is posted on the bulletin boards in the Hospitality area. We will often post information from local restaurants and churches, as well as local tourist attractions and community events.
Also on the bulletin boards are sign-up sheets for Samboree volunteer duties such as assisting in Registration, Hospitality, driving the People Mover, or working a Security shift. Sign-up sheets for local tours (if available), craft classes, golf outing, and other events are also located here.
Hospitality is an area set up to meet old friends and to make new ones, and is the hub of our Samboree. Have your coffee cup in hand because Hospitality opens at 7:30 AM sharp and is your place for coffee and donuts. Hospitality is open most of the day, but closes for the evening program. It will re-open immediately after the evening program for cookies , coffee, popcorn, and cold drinks.
When the equipment is available, we will have a "People Mover." This is transportation from your rig to the heart of activities. The People Mover is usually a tractor, pulling a wagon designed for passenger transportation. The People Mover does not run during the evening program, but does run before and after the evening program.
At the Spring and Fall Samboree's, activities begin on Friday morning, usually with a 7:00 AM flag raising ceremony (when flag pole is available). Hospitality opens at 7:30 AM sharp. Opening Ceremony is at 7:00 PM sharp Friday evening in the program area.
During the Summer Samboree, all activities begin at 7:00 AM Thursday morning and the opening ceremony is at 7:00 PM sharp Thursday evening. There are many additional games and activities during the Samboree's for adults, teens, pre-teens and families. Rig decorating, costume parade and judging, bike rodeo, tractor rodeo, hot dog roast and noise parade, just to name a few.
Ice Cream is a favorite Good Sam food. Check your program for an Ice Cream Social.
Every rig receives a "Goodie Bag" when you register. These contain a great deal of information, both local items of interest, and promotional information provided by commercial groups who help provide for this Samboree. In addition many chapters make or provide items for you. Take a few minutes to look through your Goodie Bag. You may have a surprise waiting for you!
Children and Teens have Staff members specifically designated to help organize special activities just for them. If you have children or grandchildren, bring them along. We are a family oriented group and hope to provide activities for all. Refer to your program for more details.
Door prizes are drawn often and you must have your door prize ticket with you to win. You may win more than once, so keep that ticket with you at all times. In addition, check in to the door prize area during the posted hours to receive a door prize.
Many events occur during the week. It is important to refer to your program to determine which activities you wish to observe or participate in. Be sure to visit our commercial vendors and our Arts and Crafts Areas. Don't forget Good Sam Bingo as times will again be listed in the program.
The Dr. Sambones table has a great deal of information for you to review. In addition, it is a drop off point for pop can tabs and hats that are being donated to charity. Also located here is the receipt basket. When you make a purchase at a business, restaurant or gas station in the Samboree city, save your receipt, write your name and chapter number on the back, and place it in the receipt basket. Your receipt may be drawn for a special prize.
Visit our Historian area to review chapter scrapbooks and other Good Sam historical information. See photographs of many Good Sam activities, Good Sam Royalty, and Good Sam awards.
Evening ceremonies begin at 7:00 PM sharp each evening on the Samboree. We will provide information, skits, announcements, entertainment, and door prize drawings. A handicapped seating area is available. We will provide chairs for seating, if they are available. Otherwise we recommend that you bring your lawn chairs.
Please, No high-backed chairs. Aisles are designated throughout the program area as well as the commercial area. Arts & Crafts area, and Hospitality area for everyone's safety. It is important that these aisles be kept clear at all times. Please do not place your chairs in aisles or doorways. Our Safety Staff will alert you if there is a problem. Gentlemen, we ask that you please remove your hats while seated during the program so that those seated behind you will be better able to see and enjoy the program.
Pets are welcome, but must be under control of the owners at all times. Pets are not allowed in buildings. Please clean up any treats that your pet chooses to leave behind.
Smoking is not allowed in any Samboree building or within 25 feet of any building entry. Smokers, please find an area outside the building where your smoke will not bother others. Your courtesy is greatly appreciated.
The Michigan Good Sam Organization consists of approximately 40 Staff Members that work very hard to bring this Samboree to you. Staff are most easily identified by their unique clothing and name tags. Many of them will be seen driving a golf cart around the grounds. During the evening program, the Staff will be dressed in the theme of the Samboree or in the organizational colors, which are white shirts and slacks with the royal blue Michigan State Vest. These Staff Members are here to help you. If you have a question, please ask. They will be happy to answer your question or concerns. Staff Members are all volunteers who serve at the discretion of the Michigan State Director.
Host Chapters help at each Samboree by providing assistance to the State Staff or the set-up. You may see them wearing the "Host Chapter" ribbons. These folks work very hard to help provide you the best Samboree possible.
The Good Sam Store is open each day so that you may purchase Good Sam items such as patches, clothing, or other items. Stop in and give them a look.
The commercial area is filled with vendors selling a full array of items you may be interested in. These folks help to finance our Samboree. Stop and see what they have to offer. Please Note: The Michigan Good Sam Organization does not endorse any vendor or vendor products. Vendors are responsibile for any ales taxes that may apply.
24-securtiy patrol of the Samboree grounds is provided during the Samboree. This is done by Samboree voluteers, under the direction of our Michigan Good Sam Security Chief.
Emergencies sometimes occur during a Samboree. We have emergency personnel on site to assist with medical emergencies, fires, and other situations that may arise. In addition, the weather is monitored 24 hours a day to insure that we are prepared should a storm suddenly pop-up. A list of Good Sam Safety rules is provided near the back of this booklet.
It is the desire of the Michigan State Director and his entrire staff, that each of you have an enjoyable and eventful Samboree here in Michigan. We look forward to seeing you back for more Samborees in the future. Hopefully you will spread the word about the fun filled time you spent here with us. Please, Travel Michigan with us....
Good Sam Camping!!
Michigan Good Sam Safety Guidelines
Welcome to the Michigan Samboree. These guidelines were developed for the safety of all. Please take the time to read them, and if you have any questions, contact any Good Sam Staff Member.
IF YOU HAVE AN EMERGENCY!: Notify any staff member. The Michigan Good Sam Staff is prepared to assist with your needs and has direct connections with local emergency service providers.
FIRST AID: For minor injuries or illness, visit our nurse at the first aid motorhome, or contact any staff member.
FOR SERIOUS INJURIES: We have trained and certified emergency responders on site. Contact any staff member.
LATE NIGHT EMERGENCY: Light your outside light and / or headlights on your RV, sound your vehicle horn, blow a loud whistle, or notify any staff member. You may notify the night Security Patrol. The Samboree grounds are patrolled hourly at night.
FIRE: We have fire extinguishers and trained fire personnel on site. Contact the nearest staff member or tell security patrol.
OPEN FIRES, CAMP FIRES, OR WOOD BURNING FIREPLACES: Are not permitted at any time! Gas or charcoal grills are permitted. Use them with extreme caution. DO NOT LEAVE UNATTENDED!!
FIREARMS: Are not permitted at any time. Please leave your concealed weapons in your rig!
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS: Our electrical service is limited. We ask that everyone operate their refrigerators on LP gas and refrain from using any electrical appliances to prevent overload and / or blackout. Please DO NOT use air conditioners, electric heaters, dishwashers, toasters, electric fry pans, coffee makers, microwave etc... Please use extension cords of proper wire size and length. Area lighting is provided for the safety and security of all. DO NOT tamper with any lighting or electrical systems on the grounds. DO NOT turn off night security lighting at any time. If a problem occurs, notify any staff member.
INCLEMENT WEATHER: Our staff monitors the national weather service 24 hours a day. Should weather conditions deteriorate, announcements will be made on the public address system when available. An emergency vehicle will sound a siren for weather warnings.
SECURITY: The grounds are patrolled all day, and hourly at night. If you have any late night needs or questions, the security trailer is manned all night. All buildings such as Hospitality, Program, Arts and Crafts, and commercials will be secured during non-function hours.
FIRE AISLES: The Uniformed Fire Code requires fire aisles to be kept clear at all times. DO NOT place chairs or other items in the aisles. If so, it will be removed. THIS APPLIES TO ALL BUILDINGS!!
FIRE LANES: Must be kept clear of vehicles or obstructions. Park only in authorized areas. Keep tow vehicles, towed vehicles, and dollies away from fire lanes. Violators may risk being towed. Tow vehicles must be disconnected from trailers.
PEOPLE MOVER: The people mover is transportation to assist Good Sammers in their travel between their rigs an other activities. Please do not overload the wagons. Follow instructions of the driver or safety person on board. Remain seated until the vehicle stops. Children should ride with a parent or guardian.
GOLF CARTS: Must be carefully operated by a responsible licensed driver only!
PETS: Pets are not allowed in buildings. Please clean up after your pet. Pets must be under your control at all times. Most generally this means on a leash. Do not allow your pet to run loose or disturb others. Does not include certified working dogs.
BICYCLES, SCOOTERS, SKATEBOARDS: And other similar vehicles are allowed but must be used cautiously. Pedestrians have the right-of-way. These vehicles are not allowed into buildings unless specifically for a handicapped person. Certain gasoline powered vehicles are prohibited. Powered vehicles with the exception of vehicles for handicapped persons, must be operated by a licensed driver.
PARKING: Follow the parking instructions of the parking committee. Once your rig is parked, you need the permission of the Wagonmaster before you move it.
SMOKING: Smoking is not permitted inside of buildings or within 25 feet of building entrances. Please dispose of smoking materials properly.
Michigan Good Sam Common Terminology
These are some useful terms often used by Good Sammers
Chapter Sign-In: Located on the bulletin boards in the Hospitality area. Be sure that you and all your Chapter Members sign-in. Out of state visitors sign in also!
Door Prize Ticket: Drawings are held nightly after the evening entertainment. You must have your ticket with you to win. It will be stamped "Door Prize." Also pick up a door prize at the door prize area.
Dr. Sambones Table: Found in or near the Hospitality area and contains fliers, pamphlets and general information.
Early Bird: A person that arrives before the official start of the Samboree.
First Timer: Someone's first Michigan Samboree. They wear yellow ribbons. Smile and say "Hello" when you see them.
Good Sam Store: This is the place that sells Good Sam Items such as patches, stickers, clothing, etc....
Hospitality: The social hub of activities. Here you can meet old friends or make new ones. You can enjoy coffee and refreshments there. Donuts are provided in the mornings. Hospitality opens at 7:30 AM sharp, and closes before the evening program. It may open after the evening program for refreshments and cookies.
Host Chapter: A chapter that has volunteered to assist the Director and his Staff in putting on the Samboree.
Little Sammer: Children or grandchildren of a Good Sam member. (Usually a pre-teen)
People Mover: The people mover is transportation provided by Good Sam volunteers to assist Good Sammers in their travel between their rigs an other activities. Please be considerate to all others who ride. Children should ride with a parent or guardian.
Pre-registration ticket: These are attached to your pre-registration receipt. This drawing will occur during the evening program on Saturday, and you must have your ticket (usually blue with a Pre-Registration stamped on the back) to win.
Registration: This is where you receive your Goodie Bag and pay to participate in the Samboree.
Good Sam Bingo: We play Bingo several time during the week. Cards cost $1.00. State law requires you to be 18 years old to play.
Sign-Up-Sheets: These are in Hospitality on the bulletin boards. You can sign up for games, craft classes, golf, tours, or volunteer for helping with activities such as driving the people mover or working as our night security crew. Your assistance is needed and greatly appreciated.
Store Receipts: Keep you store receipts from your local shopping, sign your name and chapter number on the back, and place them in the spinner basket at the Dr. Sambones Table. Receipts will be drawn on Saturday night for prizes.
Staff Members: Assistants to the Michigan State Director. They work hard to organize the Samboree for all who participate.
Teen Barn: A supervised place for teen activities.
We hope that this will help you, and make your first or your 50th Samboree enjoyable.
If you have any questions, feel free to ask any Staff Member for assistance.
Thank you for your participation and your cooperation!
