Saturday, March 31, 2007
Michigan seeking campground hosts
Michigan recreation officials are looking for volunteers to serve as campground hosts in state parks, recreation areas and state forest campgrounds.
The campground host program allows individuals to camp in state parks, recreation areas and state forest campgrounds at no charge, while providing assistance to other campers.
"Campground hosts play a vital role in helping other campers to have a comfortable, fun camping experience," said Department of Natural Resources Parks and Recreation Division Chief Ron Olson. "They share their expertise and knowledge and help build camaraderie in the campground."
Hosts answer questions, help organize campground activities and conduct tours of the campground. The specific duties of each host are tailored to their individual skills and interests. Retirees, teachers, college students and families all have served as campground hosts.
Hosts must be at least 18 years old and provide service for five days and at least 30 hours each week, including holidays and weekends. A minimum commitment of four consecutive weeks is required. Hosts provide their own camping equipment and personal items.
Campground hosts are chosen by park and forest managers who may require an interview or request additional information. Selection is based on the individual's familiarity with the state park, recreation area or state forest system, camping experience, special skills, availability, knowledge of the area and 'specific needs of the campground.
Openings for hosts in state parks and recreation areas can be found by checking the DNR's Website at www.michigan.gov/dnrvolunteer. Click on "Campground Host Applications are being Accepted" for more information and a list of host vacancies.
Campground host applications should be directed to the park or recreation area where placement is sought. State forest applications should be sent to the address listed on the application.
For details about the state park campground host program, contact Monica Terrell at 517-335-3034. Contact Ada Takacs at 989-275-5151, ext. 2049, regarding the state forest campground host program.
The campground host program allows individuals to camp in state parks, recreation areas and state forest campgrounds at no charge, while providing assistance to other campers.
"Campground hosts play a vital role in helping other campers to have a comfortable, fun camping experience," said Department of Natural Resources Parks and Recreation Division Chief Ron Olson. "They share their expertise and knowledge and help build camaraderie in the campground."
Hosts answer questions, help organize campground activities and conduct tours of the campground. The specific duties of each host are tailored to their individual skills and interests. Retirees, teachers, college students and families all have served as campground hosts.
Hosts must be at least 18 years old and provide service for five days and at least 30 hours each week, including holidays and weekends. A minimum commitment of four consecutive weeks is required. Hosts provide their own camping equipment and personal items.
Campground hosts are chosen by park and forest managers who may require an interview or request additional information. Selection is based on the individual's familiarity with the state park, recreation area or state forest system, camping experience, special skills, availability, knowledge of the area and 'specific needs of the campground.
Openings for hosts in state parks and recreation areas can be found by checking the DNR's Website at www.michigan.gov/dnrvolunteer. Click on "Campground Host Applications are being Accepted" for more information and a list of host vacancies.
Campground host applications should be directed to the park or recreation area where placement is sought. State forest applications should be sent to the address listed on the application.
For details about the state park campground host program, contact Monica Terrell at 517-335-3034. Contact Ada Takacs at 989-275-5151, ext. 2049, regarding the state forest campground host program.
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 8:58 PM 
Prescott, AZ man comes to the rescue of burning motor home's occupants
Prescott, Arizona: A 44-year-old Prescott man suffered severe burns on his arms, hands and face Thursday when flames engulfed a motor home on Lincoln Avenue, trapping him and a female acquaintance in it.
Paramedics treated Kevin Nuxol in the 800 block of Lincoln Avenue where the motor home burned just before 2 p.m. He suffered second and third-degree burns and a Native Air helicopter airlifted him to the Maricopa Medical Center burn unit for further treatment.
Prescott Fire Department Battalion Chief Don Devendorf said although Nuxol was conscious and alert at the scene, he was in critical condition because of the areas of the body that burned.
The neighbors who saw the incident unfold before their eyes were still in shock.
Paula Reyes said she was in her driveway when she saw the driver, Nuxol, trying to make a U-turn and the motor home unexpectedly burst in flames.
"There was also a woman in there," Reyes said breathlessly. "I saw the women get out. He (Nuxol) jumped out of the window. He was in flames. I kept yelling get down, get down."
Full Story...
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MARK POLK has written a NEW comprehensive E-Book called RV CAMPGROUND BASICS. There are an excess of 14,000 campgrounds available to go camping and Mark explains the differences of public, private, membership parks, National parks etc. He also addresses How to find a park; All about campground directories and where to buy them; What to expect in each category, Campground etiquette; Reservation policies plus so very, very much more. For more info go to Mark's Website
Paramedics treated Kevin Nuxol in the 800 block of Lincoln Avenue where the motor home burned just before 2 p.m. He suffered second and third-degree burns and a Native Air helicopter airlifted him to the Maricopa Medical Center burn unit for further treatment.
Prescott Fire Department Battalion Chief Don Devendorf said although Nuxol was conscious and alert at the scene, he was in critical condition because of the areas of the body that burned.
The neighbors who saw the incident unfold before their eyes were still in shock.
Paula Reyes said she was in her driveway when she saw the driver, Nuxol, trying to make a U-turn and the motor home unexpectedly burst in flames.
"There was also a woman in there," Reyes said breathlessly. "I saw the women get out. He (Nuxol) jumped out of the window. He was in flames. I kept yelling get down, get down."
Full Story...
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MARK POLK has written a NEW comprehensive E-Book called RV CAMPGROUND BASICS. There are an excess of 14,000 campgrounds available to go camping and Mark explains the differences of public, private, membership parks, National parks etc. He also addresses How to find a park; All about campground directories and where to buy them; What to expect in each category, Campground etiquette; Reservation policies plus so very, very much more. For more info go to Mark's Website
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 8:43 PM
Lawndale, California expected to limit street RV parking to residents
Officials hope that only barring outsiders will make city ordinance palatable.
Clifford Lane has lived in the same stucco-covered, single-family home in Lawndale for 40 years, and has parked his 28-foot Comfort motor home on the street in front of the house nearly as long.
Lane, 70, can continue to park his RV there, but some others may not.
Under an ordinance expected to get final City Council approval Monday, recreational vehicle parking on city streets will be restricted only to those with vehicle registrations in Lawndale.
Guests of residents can get a permit to temporarily park their RVs in the city.
Full Story...
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Bob Randall's RV Buyer's Survival Guide The #1 Rated Guide For RV Buyers - Over 10,000 Copies Sold Since 2001. Before you take that critical first step in buying any RV, you must read this guide. Written by a "RV Industry Insider", you'll learn the secrets to making the perfect selection while saving more money than you ever dreamed possible. Get More Info
Clifford Lane has lived in the same stucco-covered, single-family home in Lawndale for 40 years, and has parked his 28-foot Comfort motor home on the street in front of the house nearly as long.
Lane, 70, can continue to park his RV there, but some others may not.
Under an ordinance expected to get final City Council approval Monday, recreational vehicle parking on city streets will be restricted only to those with vehicle registrations in Lawndale.
Guests of residents can get a permit to temporarily park their RVs in the city.
Full Story...
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Bob Randall's RV Buyer's Survival Guide The #1 Rated Guide For RV Buyers - Over 10,000 Copies Sold Since 2001. Before you take that critical first step in buying any RV, you must read this guide. Written by a "RV Industry Insider", you'll learn the secrets to making the perfect selection while saving more money than you ever dreamed possible. Get More Info
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 8:35 PM
Florida Campgrounds Recognized as Top North American RV Parks and Campgrounds
With the release of the 2007 Woodall’s Campground Directory, 40 Florida RV parks and campgrounds were recognized as receiving the prestigious Woodall’s 5W/5W rating. The 2007 Woodall’s Campground Directory is widely recognized as having the most comprehensive campground rating system in the United States and Canada, rating more than 8,000 private campgrounds across the North American continent.
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MARK POLK has written a NEW comprehensive E-Book called RV CAMPGROUND BASICS. There are an excess of 14,000 campgrounds available to go camping and Mark explains the differences of public, private, membership parks, National parks etc. He also addresses How to find a park; All about campground directories and where to buy them; What to expect in each category, Campground etiquette; Reservation policies plus so very, very much more. For more info go to Mark's Website Cost $12.95 Instant Download.
Full Story...
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MARK POLK has written a NEW comprehensive E-Book called RV CAMPGROUND BASICS. There are an excess of 14,000 campgrounds available to go camping and Mark explains the differences of public, private, membership parks, National parks etc. He also addresses How to find a park; All about campground directories and where to buy them; What to expect in each category, Campground etiquette; Reservation policies plus so very, very much more. For more info go to Mark's Website Cost $12.95 Instant Download.
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 7:51 PM
Rent-a-RV to Partner with Motorhome, Motor Coach and Travel Trailer & Fifth Wheel Owners
Motorhome rentals are on the rise. Rent-a-RV's new national reservation center has been overwhelmed by motorhome reservation request and they are now seeking owners of motorhomes, travel trailers, and coaches to fill the demand.
Rent-a-RV specializes in bring the RV rental to the customer and was able to capture a large portion of the travel trailer rental market in Oklahoma in less than 2 years. Since then Rent-a-RV of Oklahoma is now allowing RV renters to tow units on there own as well but the demand for Motorhomes / Coaches are on the rise. Rent-a-RV receives hundreds of request every month for people wanting to drive a motorhome to many different events such as NASCAR, Church events, disaster relief and many other situations that Rent-a-RV has always been involved in.
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RV Education 101 has bundled it's instructional DVDs into cost saving Value Packs. Each of the three packs includes four training DVDs (3 hours of information) that help RVers understand how an RV works, and how to maintain and use their RV. There are DVD sets for motorized or towable units.
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 7:34 PM
RV Condos for $57K — for your motorhome, travel trailer or fifth wheel
They can be had for as low as $57,995 for each 560-square-foot unit, or $125,990 for the 1,120-square-foot top of the line which features a cathedral-type ceiling of 28 feet.
There’s just one catch. These aren’t condos to live in. They are built for recreational vehicles, boats, cars, business equipment or whatever things you can’t live without that, for lack of space or whatever reasons, you cannot store in your garage or back yard.
Manteca Trailer & Motorhome in California is selling them as Own Your Own storage condominiums.
Full Story...
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RV Education 101 has bundled it's instructional DVDs into cost saving Value Packs. Each of the three packs includes four training DVDs (3 hours of information) that help RVers understand how an RV works, and how to maintain and use their RV. There are DVD sets for motorized or towable units.
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 2:41 PM
Friday, March 30, 2007
Breaking camp: some want RVs gone
BRISTOL, Tenn. – Campground owner Mae Musick doesn’t want a mobile home park.
About 50 recreational vehicles are parked at Musick’s Campground near South Holston Lake, and most are there year-round.
Sullivan County officials agree.
Many campers look as though they might have been parked last week. But tires on others are sunk into the ground, indicating the recreational vehicles haven’t been moved in years.
The county Planning Commission approved changes to the zoning ordinances this month to more specifically regulate campgrounds in the county. The old regulations are vague and contradictory, Torbett said.
The changes would place campgrounds into three categories: temporary/special event, seasonal and commercial.
"We certainly want to get a better handle on some campgrounds that have been let go," she said. "If there are some campgrounds that have been in violation, we’ll take a look at that. This is not set up to point fingers at anybody."
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# posted by Steven Fletcher : 3:21 PM
So you wanna build a campground, eh?
The Kennebunk Citizens for Responsible Growth are mad as hell.
The KCRGs, no doubt a spirited group of local citizens, appear bent on preserving the pristine wilderness character of West Kennebunk. Or something like that.
Nothing like a fired-up bunch of do-good folks looking to keep them nasty dee-velopers outta town. Dammit.
Even if that dee-veloper wants to put in a (gulp!) campground.
NIMBYs are NIMBYs. And they're all around us.
And what they're about--they would never, ever admit this, of course--is anti-development.
Jeez, when a campground causes a NIMBY flare-up you know it's gotten bad.
Full Story...
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# posted by Steven Fletcher : 3:09 PM
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Campground fee feedback sought by Chippewa National Forest Minnesota
The Chippewa National Forest is looking for feedback on a proposal to increase camping fees by two dollars a night at three Chippewa National Forest campgrounds.
Any proposal for camping fee increases will be reviewed by a Recreation Resource Advisory Committee (RRAC), which was recently established to represent all national forests within the Eastern Region of the Forest Service.
The three campgrounds proposed for fee increases all provide electricity and other services:
• Stony Point (Walker area) currently $20; proposed $22/night
• On-E-Gum-e (Walker area) currently $18; proposed $20/night
• Chippewa Loop of Norway Beach Complex (Cass Lake area) currently $20; proposed $22/night
Fee increases help reflect more accurate costs of administering and maintaining high quality campgrounds, are comparative to fees at other private and public camping facilities in the area, and allow the Chippewa to continue providing amenities and improve services.
To provide feedback on this proposal, contact Recreation Program Manager Sonja Hoie at (218) 335-8633 before April 11.
Any proposal for camping fee increases will be reviewed by a Recreation Resource Advisory Committee (RRAC), which was recently established to represent all national forests within the Eastern Region of the Forest Service.
The three campgrounds proposed for fee increases all provide electricity and other services:
• Stony Point (Walker area) currently $20; proposed $22/night
• On-E-Gum-e (Walker area) currently $18; proposed $20/night
• Chippewa Loop of Norway Beach Complex (Cass Lake area) currently $20; proposed $22/night
Fee increases help reflect more accurate costs of administering and maintaining high quality campgrounds, are comparative to fees at other private and public camping facilities in the area, and allow the Chippewa to continue providing amenities and improve services.
To provide feedback on this proposal, contact Recreation Program Manager Sonja Hoie at (218) 335-8633 before April 11.
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 12:29 PM
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Camper Appreciation Weekend set for April 27-29 at Kentucky state parks
Kentucky State Parks will hold its annual Camper Appreciation Weekend on April 27-29 at all 31 campgrounds. Campers will be able to get two nights for the price of one and special programs will be held at campgrounds to open the season.
Lake Malone State Park just across the Logan County border in Muhlenberg County is one of them.
The park system is spending more than $2.5 million on campground improvements across the state. This includes new fire rings, picnic tables, washers and dryers, dump stations and bathroom improvements. New campground stores will open at Green River Lake State Park near Campbellsville and Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park near Burkesville.
All state park campgrounds have water and electric services with dump stations or sewer hookups. State park campgrounds open for the season on Friday, March 30.
Campgrounds are offering a variety of activities to kick off the camping season. These include entertainment, arts and crafts, putt-putt golf, bonfires, movies, cookouts and nature programs.
Check the Department of Parks web site at www.parks.ky.gov for more information on Camper Appreciation Weekend. Reservations are accepted (but not required) for the 2,600 improved sites by going to www.parks.ky.gov or calling 1-888-459-7275. (For the Camper Appreciation Weekend, campers will be charged half price for the nights of April 27-28.)
In addition to Lake Malone, the following area state parks have campgrounds:
Barren River Lake State Resort Park, Dale Hollow State Park, John James Audubon State Park, Kenlake State Resort Park, Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park, Lake Cumberland State Resort Park, Lake Barkley State Resort Park, My Old Kentucky Home State Park, Nolin Lake State Park, Pennyrile Forest State Park, Rough River Dam State Resort Park and Taylorsville Lake State Park.
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MARK POLK has written a NEW comprehensive E-Book called RV CAMPGROUND BASICS. There are an excess of 14,000 campgrounds available to go camping and Mark explains the differences of public, private, membership parks, National parks etc. He also addresses How to find a park; All about campground directories and where to buy them; What to expect in each category, Campground etiquette; Reservation policies plus so very, very much more. For more info go to Mark's Website
Lake Malone State Park just across the Logan County border in Muhlenberg County is one of them.
The park system is spending more than $2.5 million on campground improvements across the state. This includes new fire rings, picnic tables, washers and dryers, dump stations and bathroom improvements. New campground stores will open at Green River Lake State Park near Campbellsville and Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park near Burkesville.
All state park campgrounds have water and electric services with dump stations or sewer hookups. State park campgrounds open for the season on Friday, March 30.
Campgrounds are offering a variety of activities to kick off the camping season. These include entertainment, arts and crafts, putt-putt golf, bonfires, movies, cookouts and nature programs.
Check the Department of Parks web site at www.parks.ky.gov for more information on Camper Appreciation Weekend. Reservations are accepted (but not required) for the 2,600 improved sites by going to www.parks.ky.gov or calling 1-888-459-7275. (For the Camper Appreciation Weekend, campers will be charged half price for the nights of April 27-28.)
In addition to Lake Malone, the following area state parks have campgrounds:
Barren River Lake State Resort Park, Dale Hollow State Park, John James Audubon State Park, Kenlake State Resort Park, Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park, Lake Cumberland State Resort Park, Lake Barkley State Resort Park, My Old Kentucky Home State Park, Nolin Lake State Park, Pennyrile Forest State Park, Rough River Dam State Resort Park and Taylorsville Lake State Park.
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MARK POLK has written a NEW comprehensive E-Book called RV CAMPGROUND BASICS. There are an excess of 14,000 campgrounds available to go camping and Mark explains the differences of public, private, membership parks, National parks etc. He also addresses How to find a park; All about campground directories and where to buy them; What to expect in each category, Campground etiquette; Reservation policies plus so very, very much more. For more info go to Mark's Website
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 6:56 PM
Saturday, March 24, 2007
FEMA RV trailer sales worry RV dealers
Recreational-vehicle dealers in northeast Indiana are concerned about the impact a federal auction of trailers produced to house victims of Hurricane Katrina could have on sales of new entry-level RV travel trailers.
The auction could involve tens of thousands of RV travel trailers. But plans for the auction appear to be fluid, said Phil Ingrassia, communications vice president for the Recreational Vehicle Dealer Association. And that has made it “very difficult for people in the RV industry to understand what’s going on,” he said.
A major site for the auctions is Hope Municipal Airport, in Arkansas, where FEMA has been storing thousands of travel trailers it purchased for Gulf Coast residents left homeless in 2005 by Hurricane Katrina. Many of the trailers now offered for sale have never been occupied.
The sale is being handled by the federal government’s General Services Administration.
“Two or three months ago, it was upwards of 30,000. Now, we’re hearing over a three-year period, 5,000,” said Hope Mayor Dennis Ramsey. “There’s been a change in personnel, and the (FEMA) folks we had conversed with the last couple of years no longer are here.
“The acting director for logistics was down here for FEMA, and they obviously are sensitive to not adversely affecting the market for the resale of travel trailers, but I do not know what the ultimate goal is,” Ramsey said.
Full Story...
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*Note: this is a good article for anyone interested in the FEMA sale.
The auction could involve tens of thousands of RV travel trailers. But plans for the auction appear to be fluid, said Phil Ingrassia, communications vice president for the Recreational Vehicle Dealer Association. And that has made it “very difficult for people in the RV industry to understand what’s going on,” he said.
A major site for the auctions is Hope Municipal Airport, in Arkansas, where FEMA has been storing thousands of travel trailers it purchased for Gulf Coast residents left homeless in 2005 by Hurricane Katrina. Many of the trailers now offered for sale have never been occupied.
The sale is being handled by the federal government’s General Services Administration.
“Two or three months ago, it was upwards of 30,000. Now, we’re hearing over a three-year period, 5,000,” said Hope Mayor Dennis Ramsey. “There’s been a change in personnel, and the (FEMA) folks we had conversed with the last couple of years no longer are here.
“The acting director for logistics was down here for FEMA, and they obviously are sensitive to not adversely affecting the market for the resale of travel trailers, but I do not know what the ultimate goal is,” Ramsey said.
Full Story...
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*Note: this is a good article for anyone interested in the FEMA sale.
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 10:08 PM
Friday, March 23, 2007
Higher gas prices not slowing down RV industry
The recreational vehicle industry has been reporting record sales for the past five years, despite rising costs at the pump. Insiders credit a growing number of baby boomers who want the gas-guzzling vehicles for retirement and younger families opting for vacations closer to home for offsetting any potential losses because of soaring fuel costs.
So far, the higher fuel prices seem to have had little, if any, impact on Americans who vacation with recreational vehicles, which include simple pop-up campers, travel trailers towed by pickup trucks or SUVs and motor homes.
Winnebago Industries Inc., one of the nation's leading motor-home manufacturers, reported a 2.2 percent decline in net income and a 3.6 percent drop in revenues in its most recent quarter, saying rising fuel prices for shaking consumer confidence. But Kevin Broom, a spokesman for the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association, noted that Winnebago makes only motor homes and that its earnings report was not a reflection of the whole RV industry.
Full Story...
So far, the higher fuel prices seem to have had little, if any, impact on Americans who vacation with recreational vehicles, which include simple pop-up campers, travel trailers towed by pickup trucks or SUVs and motor homes.
Winnebago Industries Inc., one of the nation's leading motor-home manufacturers, reported a 2.2 percent decline in net income and a 3.6 percent drop in revenues in its most recent quarter, saying rising fuel prices for shaking consumer confidence. But Kevin Broom, a spokesman for the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association, noted that Winnebago makes only motor homes and that its earnings report was not a reflection of the whole RV industry.
Full Story...
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 2:14 PM
Camper loses everything in motorhome fire
Last Thursday Jerry Goodell set down milk, soda, instant coffee and oil on the counter at Fifi Mini-mart & Deli before he headed to Fort Churchill State Park's camping area, with his dog Baby.
Then, Store Manager Monica Pease said "all of a sudden something was smoking," and within a matter of minutes the whole hood of Goodell's motor home was on fire.
Pease said she grabbed the fire extinguisher in the store and gave it to Goodell and at the same time a trucker drove into the parking lot, followed by the Lyon County Road Department water truck driver, who all tried to extinguish the fire before firefighter arrived.
"It went up so fast, it was unbelievable," said Pease.
Central Lyon County Fire Protection District Battalion Chief and Incident Commander Bob Kietley reported the fire was under control within the first two minutes after the arrival of the first engine and the cause most likely was a problem in the engine.
The light weight construction of the motor home and a number of combustible materials inside the home caused the fire to burn fast reported the Battalion Chief.
He said there were two five-gallon propane tanks in the motor home and combined with the gasoline which ignited and caused the RV to rapidly burn.
Full Story & Photo...
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"The RVers Guide to Internet Access on the Road" covers all the options for getting internet access on the road... Wi-Fi, Cellular, Satellite... more!
Then, Store Manager Monica Pease said "all of a sudden something was smoking," and within a matter of minutes the whole hood of Goodell's motor home was on fire.
Pease said she grabbed the fire extinguisher in the store and gave it to Goodell and at the same time a trucker drove into the parking lot, followed by the Lyon County Road Department water truck driver, who all tried to extinguish the fire before firefighter arrived.
"It went up so fast, it was unbelievable," said Pease.
Central Lyon County Fire Protection District Battalion Chief and Incident Commander Bob Kietley reported the fire was under control within the first two minutes after the arrival of the first engine and the cause most likely was a problem in the engine.
The light weight construction of the motor home and a number of combustible materials inside the home caused the fire to burn fast reported the Battalion Chief.
He said there were two five-gallon propane tanks in the motor home and combined with the gasoline which ignited and caused the RV to rapidly burn.
Full Story & Photo...
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"The RVers Guide to Internet Access on the Road" covers all the options for getting internet access on the road... Wi-Fi, Cellular, Satellite... more!
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 1:57 PM
California Offers RV-Friendly Parks Near Top Attractions
Many RVing travelers are choosing to enjoy the conveniences of home while visiting California and its RV parks.
“Whatever your method of recreation travel - a fifth wheel trailer, conventional travel trailer, truck camper or motor home with all the bells and whistles - California offers a wide variety of RV Parks designed to fit your budget and locale preference,” Executive Director Caroline Beteta, of the California Travel and Tourism Commission (CTTC), said. “California Tourism also provides extensive driving itineraries that take travelers through seaside playgrounds, arid deserts and snow-covered mountains.”
Full Story...
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MARK POLK has written a NEW comprehensive E-Book called RV CAMPGROUND BASICS. There are an excess of 14,000 campgrounds available to go camping and Mark explains the differences of public, private, membership parks, National parks etc. He also addresses How to find a park; All about campground directories and where to buy them; What to expect in each category, Campground etiquette; Reservation policies plus so very, very much more. For more info go to Mark's Website
“Whatever your method of recreation travel - a fifth wheel trailer, conventional travel trailer, truck camper or motor home with all the bells and whistles - California offers a wide variety of RV Parks designed to fit your budget and locale preference,” Executive Director Caroline Beteta, of the California Travel and Tourism Commission (CTTC), said. “California Tourism also provides extensive driving itineraries that take travelers through seaside playgrounds, arid deserts and snow-covered mountains.”
Full Story...
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MARK POLK has written a NEW comprehensive E-Book called RV CAMPGROUND BASICS. There are an excess of 14,000 campgrounds available to go camping and Mark explains the differences of public, private, membership parks, National parks etc. He also addresses How to find a park; All about campground directories and where to buy them; What to expect in each category, Campground etiquette; Reservation policies plus so very, very much more. For more info go to Mark's Website
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 12:18 AM
Thursday, March 22, 2007
'Survivor' star Rupert Boneham Travels in Class A Motorhome
A chance meeting at the Indianapolis Boat, Sport and Travel Show in February led to a relationship between "Survivor" star Rupert Boneham and Best Buy RVs in Richmond.
Boneham will be at Best Buy RVs on April 14 to sign copies of his new book, "Rupert: Just Being Me." The book was released Feb. 5.
Boneham, who lives in Indianapolis, drew quite a crowd at the Boat, Sport and Travel Show. During the event the reality TV star met Best Buy RVs' general sales manager Don Crossley.
Their conversation led to the business sponsoring a Class A RV for Boneham to use during his book tour, said Amy Smith, Best Buy RVs marketing coordinator. It's a relationship that Best Buy RVs owner Dennis Runzer is excited about.
Boneham is already using the motorhome, touring Tennessee this week and Kentucky next week for book-signing sessions.
Full Story...
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Boneham will be at Best Buy RVs on April 14 to sign copies of his new book, "Rupert: Just Being Me." The book was released Feb. 5.
Boneham, who lives in Indianapolis, drew quite a crowd at the Boat, Sport and Travel Show. During the event the reality TV star met Best Buy RVs' general sales manager Don Crossley.
Their conversation led to the business sponsoring a Class A RV for Boneham to use during his book tour, said Amy Smith, Best Buy RVs marketing coordinator. It's a relationship that Best Buy RVs owner Dennis Runzer is excited about.
Boneham is already using the motorhome, touring Tennessee this week and Kentucky next week for book-signing sessions.
Full Story...
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301 Ways to Make RV Travel Safer, Easier and More Fun - save time, money and effort
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 11:15 PM
Oregon State AG settles motor coach fraud case
The Oregon Department of Justice recently culminated a complex, 18-month-long investigation of fraudulent registrations of out-of-state luxury motor coaches by charging Tualatin resident Denise Harden with 10 counts of Tampering with a Public Record (ORS 162.305) and civil violations of Oregon's Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization law (ORICO), ORS 166.715 et seq.
In August 2005, DOJ began investigating Harden regarding her involvement in a scheme to assist out-of-state businesses and individuals in avoiding sales tax and registration fees in their home states by fraudulently registering their motor vehicles, primarily luxury motor coaches, in Oregon. Ms. Harden allowed her personal residential address to be used to establish what appeared to be a legitimate address in-state.
The out-of-state vehicle owners took advantage of Oregon's relatively low registration fees by fraudulently registering their vehicles in Oregon by falsely listing the address of a residence in Oregon as the person's address, commonly known as a "mail drop," on the application form. Also, because Oregon has no sales tax, if a person or business uses a "mail drop" address that is located in Oregon when purchasing a motor vehicle, then that person or business may, depending on a particular state's tax law, avoid paying any sales tax that the person or business would otherwise be required to pay in the state where the person or business is actually located.
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Bob Randall's RV Buyer's Survival Guide The #1 Rated Guide For RV Buyers - Over 10,000 Copies Sold Since 2001. Before you take that critical first step in buying any RV, you must read this guide. Written by a "RV Industry Insider", you'll learn the secrets to making the perfect selection while saving more money than you ever dreamed possible. Click Here!
In August 2005, DOJ began investigating Harden regarding her involvement in a scheme to assist out-of-state businesses and individuals in avoiding sales tax and registration fees in their home states by fraudulently registering their motor vehicles, primarily luxury motor coaches, in Oregon. Ms. Harden allowed her personal residential address to be used to establish what appeared to be a legitimate address in-state.
The out-of-state vehicle owners took advantage of Oregon's relatively low registration fees by fraudulently registering their vehicles in Oregon by falsely listing the address of a residence in Oregon as the person's address, commonly known as a "mail drop," on the application form. Also, because Oregon has no sales tax, if a person or business uses a "mail drop" address that is located in Oregon when purchasing a motor vehicle, then that person or business may, depending on a particular state's tax law, avoid paying any sales tax that the person or business would otherwise be required to pay in the state where the person or business is actually located.
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Bob Randall's RV Buyer's Survival Guide The #1 Rated Guide For RV Buyers - Over 10,000 Copies Sold Since 2001. Before you take that critical first step in buying any RV, you must read this guide. Written by a "RV Industry Insider", you'll learn the secrets to making the perfect selection while saving more money than you ever dreamed possible. Click Here!
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 10:51 PM
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Motorhome burns on california Highway
Firefighters extinguished a fire that engulfed a motorhome in the northbound lanes of Highway 101 in Oxnard, ca this morning.
The fire began in the vehicle's dashboard, Reid said. The driver pulled over to the side of the road and got out of her vehicle before flames consumed it.
Full Story & Photo...
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You may also want to read about our personal experience with a motorhome fire.
The fire began in the vehicle's dashboard, Reid said. The driver pulled over to the side of the road and got out of her vehicle before flames consumed it.
Full Story & Photo...
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You may also want to read about our personal experience with a motorhome fire.
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 4:41 PM
Rallies draw more than 500 RVs to Macon, Georgia
More than 400 motorhomes owners are camping out at the Wilson Convention Center and Macon Coliseum for a pre-rally before they head to Perry next week for a large motorhome convention.
The Monaco International pre-rally will be in Macon through Friday, said convention sales manager Nicole Hayslip with the Macon-Bibb County Convention and Visitors Bureau. Monaco is a brand of motorhome.
It is the first time the Monaco-owners club has held its rally in Macon, Hayslip said.
About 850 people from all over the United States are attending the four-day convention, she said. While many attendees are staying in the motorhomes, about 200 hotel rooms were booked. Some of those people are helping with staging the various events held during the rally.
Another rally - with about 100 recreational vehicles - is being held by Holiday Rambler RV owners at the Shrine Park in Macon.
Many of the RV attendees have gone to the visitors center to say they plan to attend the Cherry Blossom Festival, Hayslip said.
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Get the Long, Long Trailer Staring Lucy & Desi
The Monaco International pre-rally will be in Macon through Friday, said convention sales manager Nicole Hayslip with the Macon-Bibb County Convention and Visitors Bureau. Monaco is a brand of motorhome.
It is the first time the Monaco-owners club has held its rally in Macon, Hayslip said.
About 850 people from all over the United States are attending the four-day convention, she said. While many attendees are staying in the motorhomes, about 200 hotel rooms were booked. Some of those people are helping with staging the various events held during the rally.
Another rally - with about 100 recreational vehicles - is being held by Holiday Rambler RV owners at the Shrine Park in Macon.
Many of the RV attendees have gone to the visitors center to say they plan to attend the Cherry Blossom Festival, Hayslip said.
Story Source...
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Get the Long, Long Trailer Staring Lucy & Desi
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 3:32 PM
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Test drive the Monaco motor home, the LaPalma, built on the rear gas engine Workhorse UFO™ chassis.
RVers can start signing up now for test drive opportunities with the two most recent motor home models built on the new Workhorse UFO™ chassis.
Those opportunities are next week at FMCA’s International “Georgia Jubilee” Convention in Perry, Ga., March 20 to 22. Winnebago Industries will be offering test drives on its new Itasca Latitude built on the Workhorse UFO™, while Workhorse will be providing test drives on the new Monaco LaPalma on the Workhorse UFO™. Both are rear gas-powered units.
Both Monaco and Winnebago are gearing up their production lines for the Workhorse UFO™ and are presently taking orders for models built on the new chassis. Other models include Monaco’s Holiday Rambler Vacationer and the Winnebago Destination.
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More than 600 easy to do money saving tips in the 10-Minute Tech The Book.
Those opportunities are next week at FMCA’s International “Georgia Jubilee” Convention in Perry, Ga., March 20 to 22. Winnebago Industries will be offering test drives on its new Itasca Latitude built on the Workhorse UFO™, while Workhorse will be providing test drives on the new Monaco LaPalma on the Workhorse UFO™. Both are rear gas-powered units.
Both Monaco and Winnebago are gearing up their production lines for the Workhorse UFO™ and are presently taking orders for models built on the new chassis. Other models include Monaco’s Holiday Rambler Vacationer and the Winnebago Destination.
Full Story...
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More than 600 easy to do money saving tips in the 10-Minute Tech The Book.
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 1:53 PM
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
RV Loans Approved for Motorhomes, Fifith Wheels & Travel trailers by Bank of Internet
SAN DIEGO, CA – March 13, 2007 — In response to inquireries, Bank of Internet USA today announced that it has funded RV Loans for the first time in March. In October of 2006, B of I announced its intention to focus lending efforts on home equity loans and start a recreational vehicle lending program.
"We recognize that RV lending has more credit risk than prime mortgage lending and that as our portfolio grows, it is unlikely that we will be able to avoid credit losses, as we have in our mortgage loan portfolio, “ stated Mr. Evans. “However, we have the right credit culture and based upon our limited results, we believe we can focus our originations on the most qualified RV borrowers across the country to help mitigate the credit risk."
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Bob Randall's RV Buyer's Survival Guide The #1 Rated Guide For RV Buyers - Over 10,000 Copies Sold Since 2001. Before you take that critical first step in buying any RV, you must read this guide. Written by a "RV Industry Insider", you'll learn the secrets to making the perfect selection while saving more money than you ever dreamed possible. Click Here!
"We recognize that RV lending has more credit risk than prime mortgage lending and that as our portfolio grows, it is unlikely that we will be able to avoid credit losses, as we have in our mortgage loan portfolio, “ stated Mr. Evans. “However, we have the right credit culture and based upon our limited results, we believe we can focus our originations on the most qualified RV borrowers across the country to help mitigate the credit risk."
Full Story...
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Bob Randall's RV Buyer's Survival Guide The #1 Rated Guide For RV Buyers - Over 10,000 Copies Sold Since 2001. Before you take that critical first step in buying any RV, you must read this guide. Written by a "RV Industry Insider", you'll learn the secrets to making the perfect selection while saving more money than you ever dreamed possible. Click Here!
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 1:24 PM
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Can-Am Days is underway in Florida
An official welcome in Myrtle Beach, FL Monday for hundreds of our neighbors to the north.
"This event alone has doubled in attendance this year, and we're only an hour and a half into this event and we have 350 in attendance, and that's doubled what we've ever had before. So it's proven to be a wonderful year for Can-Am," said Holly McMillan with the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce.
The festival runs through Sunday, March 18th. There are more than 80 activities planned throughout the week -- seven of them are new this year.
Visit the Myrtle Beach Web Site for more info
"This event alone has doubled in attendance this year, and we're only an hour and a half into this event and we have 350 in attendance, and that's doubled what we've ever had before. So it's proven to be a wonderful year for Can-Am," said Holly McMillan with the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce.
The festival runs through Sunday, March 18th. There are more than 80 activities planned throughout the week -- seven of them are new this year.
Visit the Myrtle Beach Web Site for more info
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 5:52 PM
RV Snowbirds are Dancing,Parading in the streets
BROOKSVILLE — A dozen decked-out golf carts chugged along the narrow streets through the Frontier Campground Saturday morning during the Decorated Golf Cart Parade.
The night before, those streets were filled with hundreds of people taking part in the annual Street Dance.
The two events highlighted the week-long 35th anniversary of the campground.
“It’s usually about like this every year,” said Wally Pawloski, a Frontier resident who had just finished watching the parade with his wife and neighbors. “Bob (McGlashen) puts on a great party. He’s very good at this sort of thing.”
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MARK POLK has written a NEW comprehensive E-Book called RV CAMPGROUND BASICS. There are an excess of 14,000 campgrounds available to go camping and Mark explains the differences of public, private, membership parks, National parks etc. He also addresses How to find a park; All about campground directories and where to buy them; What to expect in each category, Campground etiquette; Reservation policies plus so very, very much more. For more info go to Mark's Website
The night before, those streets were filled with hundreds of people taking part in the annual Street Dance.
The two events highlighted the week-long 35th anniversary of the campground.
“It’s usually about like this every year,” said Wally Pawloski, a Frontier resident who had just finished watching the parade with his wife and neighbors. “Bob (McGlashen) puts on a great party. He’s very good at this sort of thing.”
Full Story...
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MARK POLK has written a NEW comprehensive E-Book called RV CAMPGROUND BASICS. There are an excess of 14,000 campgrounds available to go camping and Mark explains the differences of public, private, membership parks, National parks etc. He also addresses How to find a park; All about campground directories and where to buy them; What to expect in each category, Campground etiquette; Reservation policies plus so very, very much more. For more info go to Mark's Website
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 5:48 PM
Monday, March 12, 2007
Couple travels in motorhome to build homes
Audrey and Bernie Ussery have driven to Hope, Ark., and Plains, Ga. They visited Darlington, S.C., and even rode a lap on the speedway. They visited Vero Beach, Fla., though they missed the Los Angeles Dodgers' spring training.
They just returned from Slidell, La. Next stop: Port Townsend, Wash.
Now in their 70s, the Usserys travel to build homes for Habitat for Humanity. In the past nine years they have built 67 houses in 14 states and worn out two motor homes, but they're not quitting anytime soon.
The couple are part of Habitat's RV Care-A-Vanners, a corps of 6,000 retirees who work two-week stints at 140 building sites.
The Usserys are so involved they have served as Care-A-Van leaders on 13 builds including big ones in Saginaw, Mich., (44 RVs and 88 builders) and Stanford, Ky. (43 rigs and 86 workers).
“You've got to get 'em there and you've got to get ‘em parked,” Bernie says, with a laugh.
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301 Ways to Make RV Travel Safer, Easier and More Fun - save time, money and effort
They just returned from Slidell, La. Next stop: Port Townsend, Wash.
Now in their 70s, the Usserys travel to build homes for Habitat for Humanity. In the past nine years they have built 67 houses in 14 states and worn out two motor homes, but they're not quitting anytime soon.
The couple are part of Habitat's RV Care-A-Vanners, a corps of 6,000 retirees who work two-week stints at 140 building sites.
The Usserys are so involved they have served as Care-A-Van leaders on 13 builds including big ones in Saginaw, Mich., (44 RVs and 88 builders) and Stanford, Ky. (43 rigs and 86 workers).
“You've got to get 'em there and you've got to get ‘em parked,” Bernie says, with a laugh.
Full Story...
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301 Ways to Make RV Travel Safer, Easier and More Fun - save time, money and effort
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 5:42 PM
Winnebago Industries: Top Selling Motor Home Manufacturer
For the sixth consecutive year, Winnebago Industries, Inc. has earned the top selling motor home manufacturer honor according to Statistical Surveys, Inc., a retail reporting service in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
For calendar 2006, Winnebago Industries dealers retailed more Class A and Class C motor homes combined than any other manufacturer's dealer group, achieving 19 percent market share. This is an increase from 17.9 percent in calendar 2005. The gap between Winnebago Industries' market share and that of the next ranked manufacturer was also widened from .4 to 2.7 percentage points.
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Get Mark Polk's Class A Motorhome 101 RV DVD
For calendar 2006, Winnebago Industries dealers retailed more Class A and Class C motor homes combined than any other manufacturer's dealer group, achieving 19 percent market share. This is an increase from 17.9 percent in calendar 2005. The gap between Winnebago Industries' market share and that of the next ranked manufacturer was also widened from .4 to 2.7 percentage points.
Full Story...
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Get Mark Polk's Class A Motorhome 101 RV DVD
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 5:31 PM
Friday, March 09, 2007
Fleetwood moving some RV travel trailer production to Mexico
Fleetwood Enterprises Inc. said Thursday that it will open a plant in the border town of Mexicali this May, becoming the first U.S. company to make RVs in Mexico.
The news comes six days after the Riverside-based RV and manufactured-housing producer announced plans to close three of its nine U.S. travel-trailer factories, including a 35-year-old plant in Rialto with 429 employees.
Assembly of two RV models -- Pioneer and Mallard -- will begin in Mexico with about 150 employees, said Lyle Larkin, Fleetwood's vice president and treasurer. The company is leasing the 80,000-square-foot factory there, near several other American companies.
Full Story...
The news comes six days after the Riverside-based RV and manufactured-housing producer announced plans to close three of its nine U.S. travel-trailer factories, including a 35-year-old plant in Rialto with 429 employees.
Assembly of two RV models -- Pioneer and Mallard -- will begin in Mexico with about 150 employees, said Lyle Larkin, Fleetwood's vice president and treasurer. The company is leasing the 80,000-square-foot factory there, near several other American companies.
Full Story...
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 9:58 PM
Thursday, March 08, 2007
National Forest fees may be on the rise
PARK FALLS, Wis. -- Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest campground and daily use fees may increase by $2 to $3 a night, according to U.S. Forest Service officials.
Current fees range from $3 to $15 a night, and the new fees would be from $5 to $20 a night, with an average cost of $12.
Forest Service officials said the new fee structure is needed to keep up with maintenance and improvements.
Day use sites, including trailheads, boat launches and beaches, would increase to either $5 per day or $20 for an annual vehicle pass. Now, the fees are $3 and $10.
Proposed increases would take effect this summer.
Fees in the Chequamegon-Nicolet have not increased since 1998.
Anyone wishing to comment on the proposed increases can send concerns to Phil Barker, Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, 68 S. Stevens St., Rhinelander, WI 54501.
Current fees range from $3 to $15 a night, and the new fees would be from $5 to $20 a night, with an average cost of $12.
Forest Service officials said the new fee structure is needed to keep up with maintenance and improvements.
Day use sites, including trailheads, boat launches and beaches, would increase to either $5 per day or $20 for an annual vehicle pass. Now, the fees are $3 and $10.
Proposed increases would take effect this summer.
Fees in the Chequamegon-Nicolet have not increased since 1998.
Anyone wishing to comment on the proposed increases can send concerns to Phil Barker, Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, 68 S. Stevens St., Rhinelander, WI 54501.
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 7:12 PM
Campground Owner Celebrates 35 Years
BROOKSVILLE - At the height of the summer during his first year as owner of a brand new KOA campground, Bob McGlashen thought he might have made a mistake. He couldn't understand why, during what was the peak of tourist season in his native Michigan, his newly opened Frontier Campground was all but deserted.
"I quickly found out that people down here don't go camping when it's hot," said McGlashen. "From June through September, I don't think I had more than a couple dozen customers."
Despite his initial frustration, McGlashen decided not to throw in the towel. Instead, he decided he would do whatever it took to keep his business afloat.
Which is one reason McGlashen is thrilled to be hosting Frontier Campground's 35th anniversary this weekend. The fact that the business not only has survived, but has thrived, is a testament to his undying belief that if you create a warm, welcoming atmosphere, people are bound to return again and again.
Full Story...
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301 Ways to Make RV Travel Safer, Easier and More Fun - save time, money and effort
"I quickly found out that people down here don't go camping when it's hot," said McGlashen. "From June through September, I don't think I had more than a couple dozen customers."
Despite his initial frustration, McGlashen decided not to throw in the towel. Instead, he decided he would do whatever it took to keep his business afloat.
Which is one reason McGlashen is thrilled to be hosting Frontier Campground's 35th anniversary this weekend. The fact that the business not only has survived, but has thrived, is a testament to his undying belief that if you create a warm, welcoming atmosphere, people are bound to return again and again.
Full Story...
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301 Ways to Make RV Travel Safer, Easier and More Fun - save time, money and effort
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 2:48 PM
Woman takes aging parents along on RV trip in Motorhome
When Sue Woodward was growing up, her parents took the family on adventurous vacations to Florida and New York City, Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Canyon.
So when a series of strokes left her father with memory and reasoning deficiencies and only months to live, Woodward decided it was time for one last family road trip. Together with "significant other" Alan Ladomer, she packed up her parents, Rollin, 87, and Olive, 86, and their cat, Tatter, and struck out on a five-week adventure to visit her daughter, Wendy Garrido, near Olympia, Wash.
"We were at a point where my dad wasn't doing really well and my mom and I were supporting him a lot, but she was having trouble getting him to do anything," said Woodward, a Glen Arbor business consultant and co-founder and managing editor of the "empowered parenting" magazine North Star Family Matters. "I just came up with this idea and didn't think they'd go for it."
Full Story...
So when a series of strokes left her father with memory and reasoning deficiencies and only months to live, Woodward decided it was time for one last family road trip. Together with "significant other" Alan Ladomer, she packed up her parents, Rollin, 87, and Olive, 86, and their cat, Tatter, and struck out on a five-week adventure to visit her daughter, Wendy Garrido, near Olympia, Wash.
"We were at a point where my dad wasn't doing really well and my mom and I were supporting him a lot, but she was having trouble getting him to do anything," said Woodward, a Glen Arbor business consultant and co-founder and managing editor of the "empowered parenting" magazine North Star Family Matters. "I just came up with this idea and didn't think they'd go for it."
Full Story...
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 2:41 PM
RV and camper show coming to Augusta Maine
AUGUSTA - One of New England's 10 best camper and RV shows will be at the Augusta Maine Civic Center Friday, Saturday and Sunday, March 16-18.
The entire building is sold out, according to Robert J. Cole, president of America's Best Shows Inc., producer of the event.
Full Story...
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MARK POLK has written a NEW comprehensive E-Book called RV CAMPGROUND BASICS. There are an excess of 14,000 campgrounds available to go camping and Mark explains the differences of public, private, membership parks, National parks etc. He also addresses How to find a park; All about campground directories and where to buy them; What to expect in each category, Campground etiquette; Reservation policies plus so very, very much more. For more info go to Mark's Website Cost $12.95 Instant Download.
The entire building is sold out, according to Robert J. Cole, president of America's Best Shows Inc., producer of the event.
Full Story...
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MARK POLK has written a NEW comprehensive E-Book called RV CAMPGROUND BASICS. There are an excess of 14,000 campgrounds available to go camping and Mark explains the differences of public, private, membership parks, National parks etc. He also addresses How to find a park; All about campground directories and where to buy them; What to expect in each category, Campground etiquette; Reservation policies plus so very, very much more. For more info go to Mark's Website Cost $12.95 Instant Download.
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 2:17 PM
Motorhome rally lures thousands to Perry GA
Perry Georgia's population is expected to increase - temporarily, at least - by more than 10,000 people this month as motorhome enthusiasts descend on the Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter for a convention.
The gathering of the Family Motor Coach Association will bring in more than 5,000 motor homes and 10,000 to 12,000 people, according to a release from the association.
It's the fairground's second largest regularly scheduled event, behind the Georgia National Fair, said Michael Froehlich, executive director of the fairgrounds.
"The rally itself is a tremendous economic boom for not only central Georgia but actually the entire state," Froehlich said.
A study by the fairgrounds estimated that the event has a statewide economic impact of about $30 million, Froehlich said. That's nearly the economic impact of the fair.
Full Story...
The gathering of the Family Motor Coach Association will bring in more than 5,000 motor homes and 10,000 to 12,000 people, according to a release from the association.
It's the fairground's second largest regularly scheduled event, behind the Georgia National Fair, said Michael Froehlich, executive director of the fairgrounds.
"The rally itself is a tremendous economic boom for not only central Georgia but actually the entire state," Froehlich said.
A study by the fairgrounds estimated that the event has a statewide economic impact of about $30 million, Froehlich said. That's nearly the economic impact of the fair.
Full Story...
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 1:11 PM
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Ford Pickup & SUV recall
Ford is issuing another recall of pickups and SUVs because of a problem with the cruise control switch. The 2003 version of the F-series pickups, the Ford Excursion and the Lincoln Blackwood, are all included. Ford says the switch system for the cruise control can corrode over time, overheat and cause engine fires. It had already recalled nearly six million vehicles from the 1994 to 2002 model years with the same problem.
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 1:10 PM
Monday, March 05, 2007
RVDA Requests that FEMA Consider RV Market Impact and Public Safety When Auctioning Trailers
Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA) President Mike Molino is urging the federal government to consider the impact its RV travel trailer auctions will have on local dealers, the RV industry, and public safety.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) officials announced the agency will begin auctions in March to reduce its inventory of RV trailers used for emergency temporary housing in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The auctions are run through the General Services Administration (GSA).
In a letter to FEMA Director R. David Paulison, Molino urged the agency to carefully consider the impact public auctions of large number of trailers will have on the retail market for RVs – especially in the Gulf Coast States.
“The practice of selling directly to consumers also raises significant public safety implications,” Molino stated in the letter. “These vehicles appear simple but are really rather complicated with electrical, plumbing, and propane gas systems that power sophisticated heating and cooling units, fire safety equipment, and gas leak detectors. There are a myriad of potential problems consumers face, unless the vehicles are thoroughly checked out, serviced, repaired, and reconditioned where necessary by qualified technicians.”
Molino said one way to protect the public could be to offer the units in lots, instead of auctioning each trailer individually. “Requiring sales in lots of 5 or 10 units would make it more likely that the vehicles get back into the stream of commerce through a licensed dealer who is capable of ensuring the safety and serviceability of the unit,” he stated.
“The issue of unfair government competition with small business obviously concerns all of us. However, safety is also an issue. By selling these vehicles through dealers, FEMA and GSA would be providing the public with a greater assurance of safety and reliability,” Molino concluded.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) officials announced the agency will begin auctions in March to reduce its inventory of RV trailers used for emergency temporary housing in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The auctions are run through the General Services Administration (GSA).
In a letter to FEMA Director R. David Paulison, Molino urged the agency to carefully consider the impact public auctions of large number of trailers will have on the retail market for RVs – especially in the Gulf Coast States.
“The practice of selling directly to consumers also raises significant public safety implications,” Molino stated in the letter. “These vehicles appear simple but are really rather complicated with electrical, plumbing, and propane gas systems that power sophisticated heating and cooling units, fire safety equipment, and gas leak detectors. There are a myriad of potential problems consumers face, unless the vehicles are thoroughly checked out, serviced, repaired, and reconditioned where necessary by qualified technicians.”
Molino said one way to protect the public could be to offer the units in lots, instead of auctioning each trailer individually. “Requiring sales in lots of 5 or 10 units would make it more likely that the vehicles get back into the stream of commerce through a licensed dealer who is capable of ensuring the safety and serviceability of the unit,” he stated.
“The issue of unfair government competition with small business obviously concerns all of us. However, safety is also an issue. By selling these vehicles through dealers, FEMA and GSA would be providing the public with a greater assurance of safety and reliability,” Molino concluded.
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 12:30 PM
Sunday, March 04, 2007
Turn Your Race Experience into a Vacation by RV Camping at Michigan International Speedway
nstead of traveling the day of a NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series race or staying in a local hotel, fans are continuously taking advantage of the affordable camping that MIS has to offer. Each year, MIS offers nearly 8,500 campsites in nine different Walt Michal’s RV Superstore-sponsored campgrounds on speedway property, which gives fans plenty of opportunity to bring their family or friends to MIS for a race weekend vacation that is full of fun and excitement.
“Camping at Michigan International Speedway is a great way to escape everyday life and experience a race weekend from a different perspective,” track President Roger Curtis said. “Because we are nestled in the scenic Irish Hills, camping here is like being in a national park. You get the tranquility of the great outdoors, yet, you get to hear the thundering sounds of stock cars driven by your favorite NASCAR drivers such as Jeff Gordon and Tony Stewart.”
Full Story...
“Camping at Michigan International Speedway is a great way to escape everyday life and experience a race weekend from a different perspective,” track President Roger Curtis said. “Because we are nestled in the scenic Irish Hills, camping here is like being in a national park. You get the tranquility of the great outdoors, yet, you get to hear the thundering sounds of stock cars driven by your favorite NASCAR drivers such as Jeff Gordon and Tony Stewart.”
Full Story...
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 1:54 PM
RVer killed in wind-related accident
A Wisconsin woman was killed and her husband injured about 9 a.m. Friday when their motorhome was blown off icy Interstate 39 about six miles north of Rochelle, Illinois State Police said.
Joan J. Degroot, 61, and her husband, Lawrence J. Degroot, of De Pere, were northbound when high winds pushed the motorhome onto the shoulder. Lawrence Degroot lost control of the motorhome, which went down an embankment, flew over a creek and crashed into the embankment on the opposite side, state police said in a news release.
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Joan J. Degroot, 61, and her husband, Lawrence J. Degroot, of De Pere, were northbound when high winds pushed the motorhome onto the shoulder. Lawrence Degroot lost control of the motorhome, which went down an embankment, flew over a creek and crashed into the embankment on the opposite side, state police said in a news release.
Full Story...
# posted by Steven Fletcher : 1:33 PM
