Monday, May 12, 2008
Bakersfield, CA has country music and great outdoors
Once considered a backward hamlet with little or no urban culture, Bakersfield has undergone a stunning transformation in the past 20 years that includes such ecologically smart developments as The Park at Riverwalk, a 32-acre parcel along the Kern River. Rescued from urban development, The Park at Riverwalk is an oasis of meandering streams, small lakes and picnic areas. The crowning achievement of The Park is the Bright House Networks Amphitheatre, a public performance venue that brings in music, theater and community showcases.
Bakersfield is known as the Country Music Capital of the West. Legendary country artist Buck Owens, along with Merle Haggard and a couple of other country performers, defined a style of traditional country music that became known as the Bakersfield Sound.
You'll find Bakersfield-area adventures of the outdoor kind. The Kern River descends from the Sierras through the Sequoias through Lake Isabella and through Bakersfield. Several river-rafting outfitters offer tours from single-day family outings, to multiday camping adventures along some of the wildest rapids in California.
Along with the river adventures, outdoor lovers will find fishing along the river and area lakes plentiful, scenic and relaxing. The Bakersfield/Kern River basin is networked with hiking trails and campgrounds, from rustic to deluxe RV parks.
Full Story...
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How to Buy an RV, Before you Buy it An RV Education 101 E-book By Mark Polk
Bakersfield is known as the Country Music Capital of the West. Legendary country artist Buck Owens, along with Merle Haggard and a couple of other country performers, defined a style of traditional country music that became known as the Bakersfield Sound.
You'll find Bakersfield-area adventures of the outdoor kind. The Kern River descends from the Sierras through the Sequoias through Lake Isabella and through Bakersfield. Several river-rafting outfitters offer tours from single-day family outings, to multiday camping adventures along some of the wildest rapids in California.
Along with the river adventures, outdoor lovers will find fishing along the river and area lakes plentiful, scenic and relaxing. The Bakersfield/Kern River basin is networked with hiking trails and campgrounds, from rustic to deluxe RV parks.
Full Story...
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How to Buy an RV, Before you Buy it An RV Education 101 E-book By Mark Polk
RV 101: Sure, they're big, but you can do it
HOLMDEL, N.J.—If you've never vacationed in a recreational vehicle, your first reaction might be "I can't afford to rent an RV" or "They're too large to maneuver."
Or maybe even "I don't want to end up like Robin Williams," who not only had trouble driving one in the movie "RV," but also had a run-in with the septic tank.
But RV dealers and rental companies are not going to hand you the keys without some preparation. I rented an RV for the first time last summer, and I didn't head out on vacation not knowing what I was doing. A tutorial before you drive the RV off the lot is the norm.
And while gas prices have made it more expensive to take road trips in any kind of vehicle, RVs do come in many different models and sizes - from truck campers and towable trailers to motor homes and even sport utility RVs. There's one for every budget and family type. Winnebago Industries Inc., the largest maker of motor homes, unveiled a 2009 ERA (a class-B motor home model) that gets 22 miles per gallon, while the largest motor homes get about eight miles per gallon, according to industry data.
Courtney Robey, public relations manager for the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association, says RVs can also be a good deal for families. Despite gas costs, "a family of four can travel much more cheaply in an RV than by flying, where you'd have to buy four tickets. And you're not going to be eating out at restaurants three times a day. You're going to be cooking in the RV.
You also don't have to pay for a hotel room. So a family can save money in the long run."
Full Story...
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Protect your RV and your family while on the road: Join Good Sam RV Emergency Road Service Today and save!
Or maybe even "I don't want to end up like Robin Williams," who not only had trouble driving one in the movie "RV," but also had a run-in with the septic tank.
But RV dealers and rental companies are not going to hand you the keys without some preparation. I rented an RV for the first time last summer, and I didn't head out on vacation not knowing what I was doing. A tutorial before you drive the RV off the lot is the norm.
And while gas prices have made it more expensive to take road trips in any kind of vehicle, RVs do come in many different models and sizes - from truck campers and towable trailers to motor homes and even sport utility RVs. There's one for every budget and family type. Winnebago Industries Inc., the largest maker of motor homes, unveiled a 2009 ERA (a class-B motor home model) that gets 22 miles per gallon, while the largest motor homes get about eight miles per gallon, according to industry data.
Courtney Robey, public relations manager for the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association, says RVs can also be a good deal for families. Despite gas costs, "a family of four can travel much more cheaply in an RV than by flying, where you'd have to buy four tickets. And you're not going to be eating out at restaurants three times a day. You're going to be cooking in the RV.
You also don't have to pay for a hotel room. So a family can save money in the long run."
Full Story...
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Protect your RV and your family while on the road: Join Good Sam RV Emergency Road Service Today and save!
Camping Adventures in Miami FL
If you live near Miami and are looking for an affordable camping spot that is less than a tank full of gas away need not look any further than their own backyard, figuratively of course.
"I don't think people here locally really realize that this is a unique campground in that it's in a circular pod style and affords folks more room than a conventional campground would be and it's a very peaceful," said Marvin Garwood of Larry and Penny Thompson Park & Campground in South Miami Dade.
For $25 a night, registered guests can enjoy the new swimming pool and cabana complex that's loaded with fun things to do. On the park side, there's a man made beach and a water park available for a small fee.
"For the beach and the slide area there is a $5 fee for adults, $4 for kids," said Garwood, "and I think we even have a discounted rate for seniors."
Parents travelling with little ones who want more than just a pool to keep them entertained can head to CB Smith Park and Campground in Pembroke Pines.
For $8.50, campers can enjoy the park's two water playgrounds, a pair of 400-foot slides and the Lazy River; all just a short walk from the park's new lakeside campsite.
If you are a Miami resident, Palm Beach resident or Broward resident RV sites are $25 per night.
You can use the boats, the water park, the golf center which has the batting cages, mini golf and driving range.
Full Story & Video...
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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 DDVDs (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.
"I don't think people here locally really realize that this is a unique campground in that it's in a circular pod style and affords folks more room than a conventional campground would be and it's a very peaceful," said Marvin Garwood of Larry and Penny Thompson Park & Campground in South Miami Dade.
For $25 a night, registered guests can enjoy the new swimming pool and cabana complex that's loaded with fun things to do. On the park side, there's a man made beach and a water park available for a small fee.
"For the beach and the slide area there is a $5 fee for adults, $4 for kids," said Garwood, "and I think we even have a discounted rate for seniors."
Parents travelling with little ones who want more than just a pool to keep them entertained can head to CB Smith Park and Campground in Pembroke Pines.
For $8.50, campers can enjoy the park's two water playgrounds, a pair of 400-foot slides and the Lazy River; all just a short walk from the park's new lakeside campsite.
If you are a Miami resident, Palm Beach resident or Broward resident RV sites are $25 per night.
You can use the boats, the water park, the golf center which has the batting cages, mini golf and driving range.
Full Story & Video...
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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 DDVDs (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.
Camping in Toronto
Glen Rouge Campground, is a 8.7-hectare site nestled in the wilds of Rouge Park.
The camp, just minutes away from the Toronto Zoo, opened for the season last weekend, drawing some 20 groups of campers and RVers.
“It gets very busy,” said Bonnie Dunsby, who manned the visitor centre Saturday night and registered campers. “When the kids get out of school, that’s when it really hits.”
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RV Repair and Maintenance Manual - Updated and Expanded
The camp, just minutes away from the Toronto Zoo, opened for the season last weekend, drawing some 20 groups of campers and RVers.
“It gets very busy,” said Bonnie Dunsby, who manned the visitor centre Saturday night and registered campers. “When the kids get out of school, that’s when it really hits.”
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RV Repair and Maintenance Manual - Updated and Expanded
Report Says Oil Bust in the Cards
Is $120 oil even real? Not if you ask the Saudis, or even Lehman Bros.
The investment bank’s oil expert said this week that the oil boom is due to bust. Economic growth across the globe will slow just as new refineries kick in, raising supply.
Recession or not, a U.S. slowdown will slacken demand sharply, right as new oil hits the market. "Supply is outpacing demand growth,” said Michael Waldron, Lehman’s oil strategist.
"Inventories have been building since the beginning of the year. We have pretty significant projects starting soon in Saudi Arabia, and large off-shore fields in Nigeria,” he said.
Lehman is now predicting prices at $83 a barrel in 2009 and as low as $70 in 2010.
Full Story...
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New & Used RV Classifieds on RVbasics.com Find Your Dream RV - List Yours For Sale for $19
The investment bank’s oil expert said this week that the oil boom is due to bust. Economic growth across the globe will slow just as new refineries kick in, raising supply.
Recession or not, a U.S. slowdown will slacken demand sharply, right as new oil hits the market. "Supply is outpacing demand growth,” said Michael Waldron, Lehman’s oil strategist.
"Inventories have been building since the beginning of the year. We have pretty significant projects starting soon in Saudi Arabia, and large off-shore fields in Nigeria,” he said.
Lehman is now predicting prices at $83 a barrel in 2009 and as low as $70 in 2010.
Full Story...
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New & Used RV Classifieds on RVbasics.com Find Your Dream RV - List Yours For Sale for $19
Sunday, May 11, 2008
RVs Welcome at Bill Monroe Memorial Music Park and Campground
The "father of bluegrass" started this festival in southern Indiana's Brown County, where it lives on at the Bill Monroe Memorial Music Park and Campground.
"It's the oldest continuously running bluegrass festival in the world," said Gaby Zimmerman, park manager.
More than 50 bands will perform; headliners include the Grascals, Cherryholmes and Gene Watson. There's a two-day music camp for children. And there'll be plenty of campfire-side picking and jamming at the 600-site campground, where tents and RVs are welcome.
June 26-July 6; Summerfest,Milwaukee, (92 miles), 414-273-2680, www.summerfest.com.
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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 DDVDs (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.
"It's the oldest continuously running bluegrass festival in the world," said Gaby Zimmerman, park manager.
More than 50 bands will perform; headliners include the Grascals, Cherryholmes and Gene Watson. There's a two-day music camp for children. And there'll be plenty of campfire-side picking and jamming at the 600-site campground, where tents and RVs are welcome.
June 26-July 6; Summerfest,Milwaukee, (92 miles), 414-273-2680, www.summerfest.com.
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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 DDVDs (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.
Rock Valley, Iowa Opens New Campground
KTIV - Sioux City,IA,USA
In the works for three years, Rivers Bend Campground in Rock Valley, Iowa is set to open this Memorial Day weekend.
The one and a half million dollar campground is owned by the city, but an Iowa tourism grant and the donated land from Van Zee Enterprises made the project possible.
Kent Eknes, Mayor, "They had used these pits for gravel and sand and when they had utilized what all was available, they really didn't need it anymore so they donated about 92 acres to the city with the understanding that we would develop it into a campground."
The campground features three large ponds, one for swimming and two for fishing and other recreational activities.
There are full-utility sites and tent sites in more wooded areas of the campground.
It also features biking and walking trails which will take you into downtown Rock Valley.
Eknes, "We think there's a lot of benefits to living in a small town, but sometimes people think it's not as exciting as living in a city and people can drive for that. These are the kind of quality of life projects that we like to just enhance people's living experience."
Story & Video...
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Get the Original RV Movie - Lucy & Desi's The Long, Long Trailer
In the works for three years, Rivers Bend Campground in Rock Valley, Iowa is set to open this Memorial Day weekend.
The one and a half million dollar campground is owned by the city, but an Iowa tourism grant and the donated land from Van Zee Enterprises made the project possible.
Kent Eknes, Mayor, "They had used these pits for gravel and sand and when they had utilized what all was available, they really didn't need it anymore so they donated about 92 acres to the city with the understanding that we would develop it into a campground."
The campground features three large ponds, one for swimming and two for fishing and other recreational activities.
There are full-utility sites and tent sites in more wooded areas of the campground.
It also features biking and walking trails which will take you into downtown Rock Valley.
Eknes, "We think there's a lot of benefits to living in a small town, but sometimes people think it's not as exciting as living in a city and people can drive for that. These are the kind of quality of life projects that we like to just enhance people's living experience."
Story & Video...
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Get the Original RV Movie - Lucy & Desi's The Long, Long Trailer
Friday, May 09, 2008
Preparing for the 2008 Yellowstone RV Season
There is an abundance of campgrounds and RV parks in Yellowstone, only five are available for reservations via Xanterra: Bridge Bay Campground, Canyon Campground, Grant Village Campground, Madison Campground and Fishing Bridge RV Park. And of those, Fishing Bridge is limited to hard-sided RVs. The rest of the Yellowstone campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Your best bet is to pick an open campground, head there early in the morning and grab a slot when someone departs... check-out time is 10 a.m.
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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 DDVDs (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.
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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 DDVDs (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.
America's Top 100 Family Campgrounds for 2008 Chosen
With the continued increase in camping popularity and as the Summer camping season quickly approaches, ReserveAmerica, the United States' leading recreation reservation service announces the nation's sixth annual "Top 100 Family Campgrounds," a guide to help consumers plan their visits to America's greatest 'hidden gem' locations all across the great outdoors. Consumers can explore and reserve over 4,000 campgrounds by visiting http://www.ReserveAmerica.com
The Top 100 Family Campgrounds were selected based on testimonials, campground ratings and feedback provided by park rangers, regional park management and campers throughout the year Nearly 4,000 parks were reviewed and the final 100 campgrounds were determined based on specific family- friendly criteria ranging from educational programs and visitor centers to camping amenities and overall beauty and scenery. Factors including the quality and availability of hot showers, laundry facilities, hiking trails, family beaches, radio-free zones, visitor centers, educational programs, children's events and location were also considered.
Full Story...
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Protect your RV and your family while on the road: Join Good Sam RV Emergency Road Service Today & Save!
The Top 100 Family Campgrounds were selected based on testimonials, campground ratings and feedback provided by park rangers, regional park management and campers throughout the year Nearly 4,000 parks were reviewed and the final 100 campgrounds were determined based on specific family- friendly criteria ranging from educational programs and visitor centers to camping amenities and overall beauty and scenery. Factors including the quality and availability of hot showers, laundry facilities, hiking trails, family beaches, radio-free zones, visitor centers, educational programs, children's events and location were also considered.
Full Story...
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Protect your RV and your family while on the road: Join Good Sam RV Emergency Road Service Today & Save!
Hula over to Happy Camp to kick off Summer
Friday Flyer - Canyon Lake,CA
What better way to welcome summer to this “little bit of paradise” than with a luau? The Canyon Lake Campground Club will be hosting a “Welcome to Summer Luau” next Saturday, May 17 from 3 to 8 p.m. at Happy Camp, and residents are invited to come for the day or camp out for the weekend and get to know club members.
According to president Alex Cook, the club felt this would be the perfect way to showcase to the community some of the improvements it has been able to undertake at the Campground, along with the help of the POA Campground Committee, using money raised at previous events. Both the Ice Cream Social held in September and the Harvest Festival Campout in October were well attended by residents interested in helping fund beautification and clean up efforts at the unique community amenity, allowing the club to purchase new grass and sod, as well as improve the horseshoe pits and playground equipment.
Full Story...
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Get the Original RV Movie - Lucy & Desi's The Long, Long Trailer
What better way to welcome summer to this “little bit of paradise” than with a luau? The Canyon Lake Campground Club will be hosting a “Welcome to Summer Luau” next Saturday, May 17 from 3 to 8 p.m. at Happy Camp, and residents are invited to come for the day or camp out for the weekend and get to know club members.
According to president Alex Cook, the club felt this would be the perfect way to showcase to the community some of the improvements it has been able to undertake at the Campground, along with the help of the POA Campground Committee, using money raised at previous events. Both the Ice Cream Social held in September and the Harvest Festival Campout in October were well attended by residents interested in helping fund beautification and clean up efforts at the unique community amenity, allowing the club to purchase new grass and sod, as well as improve the horseshoe pits and playground equipment.
Full Story...
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Get the Original RV Movie - Lucy & Desi's The Long, Long Trailer
How to Take a Gas Holiday
"People aren't canceling their trips outright," says Marie Dodds, a spokeswoman for AAA, "but they are definitely looking into other options."
Even camping--that mainstay of penny-pincher vacations--might look different this year, thanks to gas prices. State parks in New York, Maine and Vermont have all reported an increase of 10% to 15% in camping reservations over last year. But more campers will be arriving not by gassy RV but by car--or even motorbike. Campgrounds have become more motorcycle-friendly in recent years to cater to that growing market. Chris Rhie, 23, says he plans to ride his new Suzuki motorcycle--which gets 50 m.p.g.--from San Francisco to Yosemite for a camping trip with his girlfriend this summer.
Full Story...
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Get a Dual Flush Pro RV Holding Tank Rinser with Gate Valve from Amazon.com
Even camping--that mainstay of penny-pincher vacations--might look different this year, thanks to gas prices. State parks in New York, Maine and Vermont have all reported an increase of 10% to 15% in camping reservations over last year. But more campers will be arriving not by gassy RV but by car--or even motorbike. Campgrounds have become more motorcycle-friendly in recent years to cater to that growing market. Chris Rhie, 23, says he plans to ride his new Suzuki motorcycle--which gets 50 m.p.g.--from San Francisco to Yosemite for a camping trip with his girlfriend this summer.
Full Story...
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Get a Dual Flush Pro RV Holding Tank Rinser with Gate Valve from Amazon.com
Boaters and RV’ers Don’t Plan to Abandon Ship
With marine fuel nearing $5 a gallon and regular gas heading in that direction, you might be surprised to learn that when it comes to getting out on the water, or getting out on the road, Americans will not be denied.
If you already own a boat or an RV, chances are good that you're planning to put your boat in the water and you've made plans for road trips in your RV.
That would seem counterintuitive, but the numbers speak otherwise. While retail sales for recreational boating topped $39 billion in 2006 — an increase of nearly six percent from 2005 — the last two years have not been as buoyant. In 2007, the industry saw a drop of 14 percent in unit sales, and nine percent in dollar sales. And this year will be worse. In fact, at the recent Miami boat show, many new boat dealers were downright depressed. "See that brand-new boat over there?" said the president of one upscale boat manufacturer. "I've sold it four times this week." Translation: The prospective buyers couldn't close financing.
Full Story...
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Support Your RV Lifestyle! An Insider's Guide to Working on the Road, 2nd Edition
gives you tips, tools and resources to live where you want, when you want. With key points on topics like writing an RV resume, networking, and how to negotiate for better compensation, it is the ultimate handbook for those who are thinking about working or volunteering as they travel in their RV.
If you already own a boat or an RV, chances are good that you're planning to put your boat in the water and you've made plans for road trips in your RV.
That would seem counterintuitive, but the numbers speak otherwise. While retail sales for recreational boating topped $39 billion in 2006 — an increase of nearly six percent from 2005 — the last two years have not been as buoyant. In 2007, the industry saw a drop of 14 percent in unit sales, and nine percent in dollar sales. And this year will be worse. In fact, at the recent Miami boat show, many new boat dealers were downright depressed. "See that brand-new boat over there?" said the president of one upscale boat manufacturer. "I've sold it four times this week." Translation: The prospective buyers couldn't close financing.
Full Story...
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Support Your RV Lifestyle! An Insider's Guide to Working on the Road, 2nd Edition
gives you tips, tools and resources to live where you want, when you want. With key points on topics like writing an RV resume, networking, and how to negotiate for better compensation, it is the ultimate handbook for those who are thinking about working or volunteering as they travel in their RV.County Officials Weighing Options on Alfa Leisure Land Deal
With the news that Alfa Leisure has shut down its operations and is unlikely to construct a new manufacturing plant near Riddle, Douglas County officials are weighing their options on the 34 acres of land the recreational vehicle manufacturer had agreed to buy and another 14 acres on which it held an option.
A $2,000 payment on the $1.02 million purchase contract with the county was due April 28 and has not been paid. Previously, the company made both of its February and March payments, although those were 10 to 15 days late, said Kathleen Johnson, an assistant county attorney.
Those were the first two payments the company made after signing its purchase deal two years ago. Alfa Leisure was not required to begin paying on the contract until certain infrastructure requirements concerning road and wetlands issues were completed in January.
“We may get a payment but we really don’t know at this point. We haven’t heard anything from them,” Johnson said.
Alfa Leisure closed its offices and manufacturing plants in Ontario, Calif., and in nearby Chino on April 30. County officials didn’t learn of the closure until Monday.
The company had planned to construct a 100,000-square-foot building next to Interstate 5 at the South Umpqua Industrial Park and to place its motor homes on display for passing freeway motorists. Johnnie Crean, the company’s owner, said he planned to employ 200 workers within five years of the plant’s opening.
Full Story...
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AwesomeTools.com is a great site with some interesting products you probably won't find at Home Depot.
A $2,000 payment on the $1.02 million purchase contract with the county was due April 28 and has not been paid. Previously, the company made both of its February and March payments, although those were 10 to 15 days late, said Kathleen Johnson, an assistant county attorney.
Those were the first two payments the company made after signing its purchase deal two years ago. Alfa Leisure was not required to begin paying on the contract until certain infrastructure requirements concerning road and wetlands issues were completed in January.
“We may get a payment but we really don’t know at this point. We haven’t heard anything from them,” Johnson said.
Alfa Leisure closed its offices and manufacturing plants in Ontario, Calif., and in nearby Chino on April 30. County officials didn’t learn of the closure until Monday.
The company had planned to construct a 100,000-square-foot building next to Interstate 5 at the South Umpqua Industrial Park and to place its motor homes on display for passing freeway motorists. Johnnie Crean, the company’s owner, said he planned to employ 200 workers within five years of the plant’s opening.
Full Story...
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AwesomeTools.com is a great site with some interesting products you probably won't find at Home Depot.
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Jim Jaillet though his towing days were done for a while. Wrong!
From Jim's Blog...
Yesterday about 11am, from out of nowhere my new engine started making a clanging sound and just stopped running. Fortunately, I was able to guide to a safe place off of the pavement. I was on US Highway 101 in Northern CA, kinda sorta out in the middle of nowhere. I even had to raise my cell phone antenna on the roof of my motorhome to get a one-bar signal.
I called the mechanics who installed the engine and told them of my situation. They said they would send a large truck to haul my motorhome back to their garage 305 miles away. A few blog entries back, I gave these mechanics the "REALLY GOOD GUYS AWARD". Keep in mind, they could have said "find a away to get it back here and we'll take care of it.
Full Story...
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Protect your RV and your family while on the road: Join Good Sam RV Emergency Road Service Today and save!
Yesterday about 11am, from out of nowhere my new engine started making a clanging sound and just stopped running. Fortunately, I was able to guide to a safe place off of the pavement. I was on US Highway 101 in Northern CA, kinda sorta out in the middle of nowhere. I even had to raise my cell phone antenna on the roof of my motorhome to get a one-bar signal.
I called the mechanics who installed the engine and told them of my situation. They said they would send a large truck to haul my motorhome back to their garage 305 miles away. A few blog entries back, I gave these mechanics the "REALLY GOOD GUYS AWARD". Keep in mind, they could have said "find a away to get it back here and we'll take care of it.
Full Story...
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Protect your RV and your family while on the road: Join Good Sam RV Emergency Road Service Today and save!
TVA encourages campground conservation
The Tennessee Valley Authority is kicking off an energy and resource conservation initiative at its campgrounds to encourage campers to use water and electricity efficiently.
"We're asking campers to help protect the environment by reducing their energy consumption and being careful not to waste water," said Bridgette Ellis, TVA environmental executive and senior vice president of the Office of Environment and Research, in a news release. "Most campers want to do the right thing, but they don't realize how much electricity and water is wasted."
TVA is posting resource conservation tips at many of the campgrounds they manage. The tips include:
Make sure doors and windows are shut on campers when air-conditioning is on;
Turn off air-conditioning in campers and open windows if the occupants are away from their campsite for more than eight hours;
Turn off lights when leaving a camper -- even if only for a short time;
Turn off water when leaving a campsite;
Fix leaking hoses, couplers or other equipment immediately; and,
Alert the maintenance crew or campground manager if the water leak is on the campground faucet or connector.
TVA campground regulations already prohibit the use of outdoor appliances, such as refrigerators, freezers and outdoor electrical pest-control devices and do not allow washing of boats, cars, trailers or other equipment.
By reducing water consumption and electricity use at campgrounds, TVA hopes to avoid an increase in camping fees and help reduce the impact of recreational activities on the environment.
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RV Education 101 has added another informative e-book to their line-up: RV AWNING USE, CARE AND ACCESSORIES The book also explains How to Install a Window Awning in 6-easy steps.
"We're asking campers to help protect the environment by reducing their energy consumption and being careful not to waste water," said Bridgette Ellis, TVA environmental executive and senior vice president of the Office of Environment and Research, in a news release. "Most campers want to do the right thing, but they don't realize how much electricity and water is wasted."
TVA is posting resource conservation tips at many of the campgrounds they manage. The tips include:
Make sure doors and windows are shut on campers when air-conditioning is on;
Turn off air-conditioning in campers and open windows if the occupants are away from their campsite for more than eight hours;
Turn off lights when leaving a camper -- even if only for a short time;
Turn off water when leaving a campsite;
Fix leaking hoses, couplers or other equipment immediately; and,
Alert the maintenance crew or campground manager if the water leak is on the campground faucet or connector.
TVA campground regulations already prohibit the use of outdoor appliances, such as refrigerators, freezers and outdoor electrical pest-control devices and do not allow washing of boats, cars, trailers or other equipment.
By reducing water consumption and electricity use at campgrounds, TVA hopes to avoid an increase in camping fees and help reduce the impact of recreational activities on the environment.
---
RV Education 101 has added another informative e-book to their line-up: RV AWNING USE, CARE AND ACCESSORIES The book also explains How to Install a Window Awning in 6-easy steps.
Airstream Recalls Motorhomes
Airstream is recalling 51 Model-Year 2005-2006 390 skydeck, Model-Year 2006-2007 360xl, 390xl, 396xl, a37 and a39 motor homes built on freightliner chassis. the chassis contain steering filters that can plug due to failure of the screen adhesion to the filter housing causing a rise in return line pressure potentially leading to a hose separation from the filter or steering gear fitting resulting in a sudden loss of steering fluid and power assist.
CONSEQUENCE: sudden loss of steering assist without warning involving a motor home could be a problem for certain drivers increasing the risk of a crash.
REMEDY: freightliner is conducting this recall and will replace the affected filters with a larger filter (please see 07v-570). the recall is expected to begin during may 2008. owners may contact freightliner at 1-800-547-0712 or airstream at 1-937-596-6111.
Customers may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration’s vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
---
AwesomeTools.com is a great site with some interesting products you probably won't find at Home Depot.
CONSEQUENCE: sudden loss of steering assist without warning involving a motor home could be a problem for certain drivers increasing the risk of a crash.
REMEDY: freightliner is conducting this recall and will replace the affected filters with a larger filter (please see 07v-570). the recall is expected to begin during may 2008. owners may contact freightliner at 1-800-547-0712 or airstream at 1-937-596-6111.
Customers may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration’s vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
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AwesomeTools.com is a great site with some interesting products you probably won't find at Home Depot.
Time's Up for Western RV... Maybe Not.
An eviction notice given to Western Recreational Vehicles last week gave the company until midnight Wednesday to get out, but the company may not have to leave.
As for the eviction notice, an investigator with the Yakima County Sheriff's Office said the property owner is in talks with Western RV's lenders hoping to come to some kind of resolution.
In another twist, dozens of laid-off workers said Tuesday that Western RV was temporarily hiring them back for a few weeks.
No one from the company would confirm that.
The company shut down last month for financial reasons. More than 200 workers got laid-off.
A lawsuit against Western RV that alleged the company didn't pay rent totaling around $400,000.
Full Story & Video...
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Camping World Internet Only Specials
As for the eviction notice, an investigator with the Yakima County Sheriff's Office said the property owner is in talks with Western RV's lenders hoping to come to some kind of resolution.
In another twist, dozens of laid-off workers said Tuesday that Western RV was temporarily hiring them back for a few weeks.
No one from the company would confirm that.
The company shut down last month for financial reasons. More than 200 workers got laid-off.
A lawsuit against Western RV that alleged the company didn't pay rent totaling around $400,000.
Full Story & Video...
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Camping World Internet Only Specials
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
Snow & Cold Delay Campground Openings in CO
Snow in the high country is delaying the opening of some campgrounds on the Pike and San Isabel National Forests this season.
U.S. Forest Service recreation planners recommend that you check with your local Forest Service office before heading out.
If there is a problem with your reservation you will receive notice from the National Recreation Reservation Service. Reservations may be canceled altogether or changed to an alternate date. The reservation service can be contacted at http://www.recreation.gov/ or call 1-888-448-1471.
Campgrounds currently open include Lake Isabel, sites along the South Platte River and in the Manitou Park area north of Woodland Park. Eleven Mile Canyon will open as scheduled. Jefferson Lake and the campgrounds at Rampart Reservoir are all tentatively scheduled to open on May 15.
Sites at higher elevations like Blue and Bear Lake, Kenosha and Hall Valley will be delayed, but should be available for the Memorial Day weekend.
In Lake County, Twin Lakes and Lakeview campgrounds will be open as scheduled. The recreation facilities at Turquoise Lake may not be open for the Memorial Day weekend.
In Chaffee County, the campgrounds will be open on time but Monarch Campground will not be available until mid-June.
Source...
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U.S. Forest Service recreation planners recommend that you check with your local Forest Service office before heading out.
If there is a problem with your reservation you will receive notice from the National Recreation Reservation Service. Reservations may be canceled altogether or changed to an alternate date. The reservation service can be contacted at http://www.recreation.gov/ or call 1-888-448-1471.
Campgrounds currently open include Lake Isabel, sites along the South Platte River and in the Manitou Park area north of Woodland Park. Eleven Mile Canyon will open as scheduled. Jefferson Lake and the campgrounds at Rampart Reservoir are all tentatively scheduled to open on May 15.
Sites at higher elevations like Blue and Bear Lake, Kenosha and Hall Valley will be delayed, but should be available for the Memorial Day weekend.
In Lake County, Twin Lakes and Lakeview campgrounds will be open as scheduled. The recreation facilities at Turquoise Lake may not be open for the Memorial Day weekend.
In Chaffee County, the campgrounds will be open on time but Monarch Campground will not be available until mid-June.
Source...
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All Power America 1,000 Watt 2.4 HP 2-Cycle Gas Powered Portable Generator from Amazon.com $149
America's Top 100 Family Campgrounds for 2008 Chosen
ReserveAmerica reservation service announces the nation's sixth annual "Top 100 Family Campgrounds," a guide to help consumers plan their visits to America's greatest 'hidden gem' locations all across the great outdoors.
The Top 100 Family Campgrounds were selected based on testimonials, campground ratings and feedback provided by park rangers, regional park management and campers throughout the year Nearly 4,000 parks were reviewed and the final 100 campgrounds were determined based on specific family- friendly criteria ranging from educational programs and visitor centers to camping amenities and overall beauty and scenery.
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The Top 100 Family Campgrounds were selected based on testimonials, campground ratings and feedback provided by park rangers, regional park management and campers throughout the year Nearly 4,000 parks were reviewed and the final 100 campgrounds were determined based on specific family- friendly criteria ranging from educational programs and visitor centers to camping amenities and overall beauty and scenery.
Full Story...
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Camping World Internet Only Specials
Norcold Extends RV Refrigerator Recall to More Units
ANN ARBOR, Mich. – May 2008 - Norcold has voluntarily extended the serial number range of recalled cooling units found on RV gas absorption refrigerator models 1200LR, 1200LRIM and 1201LRIM.
Norcold notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and
Transport Canada of the extension upon becoming aware that the recall could involve additional refrigerators, which may under certain conditions, result in a fire.t
The additional refrigerators use cooling units manufactured from March 1, 1999 through February of 2001. The cooling unit serial numbers (found on the solution chamber and viewed through the refrigerator intake vent door outside the RV) range from 1008701-1273700.
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RV Repair and Maintenance Manual - Updated and Expanded
Norcold notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and
Transport Canada of the extension upon becoming aware that the recall could involve additional refrigerators, which may under certain conditions, result in a fire.t
The additional refrigerators use cooling units manufactured from March 1, 1999 through February of 2001. The cooling unit serial numbers (found on the solution chamber and viewed through the refrigerator intake vent door outside the RV) range from 1008701-1273700.
Full Story...
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RV Repair and Maintenance Manual - Updated and Expanded
GE To Stop Providing Consumer Loans For RVs, Most Boats
General Electric Co.'s (GE) consumer finance unit plans to stop providing loans for the purchase of recreational vehicles and most watercraft, the latest effort by the conglomerate to exit what it considers low-margin businesses.
"It's a challenging time for RV and marine financing," said Cristy Williams, a spokesperson for GE Money, the company's consumer finance arm. "We just didn't see the returns that we wanted to see."
GE notified manufacturers late last week that it intends to stop providing new consumer loans for such purchases on Aug. 1.
Williams said GE Money will continue servicing its existing RV and marine loan portfolio, which it values at $3.6 billion. In addition, GE's commercial finance unit will continue to provide financing for dealers to stock inventory.
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Get Mark Polk's Class A Motorhome 101 RV DVD All of Mark's DVD's offer practical information and he has one for every RV type. Find all the RV Education 101 DVDs here.
"It's a challenging time for RV and marine financing," said Cristy Williams, a spokesperson for GE Money, the company's consumer finance arm. "We just didn't see the returns that we wanted to see."
GE notified manufacturers late last week that it intends to stop providing new consumer loans for such purchases on Aug. 1.
Williams said GE Money will continue servicing its existing RV and marine loan portfolio, which it values at $3.6 billion. In addition, GE's commercial finance unit will continue to provide financing for dealers to stock inventory.
Full Story...
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Get Mark Polk's Class A Motorhome 101 RV DVD All of Mark's DVD's offer practical information and he has one for every RV type. Find all the RV Education 101 DVDs here.
RV Manufacturers Going Green
ELKHART COUNTY — Last year alone, RV companies in Elkhart County turned more than 2,000,000 pounds of landfill waste into new products.
When the manufacturers cut windows and doors from the side walls of RVs, they used to throw the scrap pieces away. Now they stack them on skids and send them to Nappanee Window, Inc.
That's where employees work to recycle the scraps into compartment doors for the outside of RVs.
"We didn't set out to be environmental pioneers, that wasn't our goal," explained Nappanee Window Marketing Director Josh Kanagy. "By capturing this waste and reusing a lot of the material, it helps lower the cost of the customer for the finished product they buy from us. And it makes everyone more profitable, which is what we're all in business for."
Full Story & Video...
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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!
When the manufacturers cut windows and doors from the side walls of RVs, they used to throw the scrap pieces away. Now they stack them on skids and send them to Nappanee Window, Inc.
That's where employees work to recycle the scraps into compartment doors for the outside of RVs.
"We didn't set out to be environmental pioneers, that wasn't our goal," explained Nappanee Window Marketing Director Josh Kanagy. "By capturing this waste and reusing a lot of the material, it helps lower the cost of the customer for the finished product they buy from us. And it makes everyone more profitable, which is what we're all in business for."
Full Story & Video...
---
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!
AL-KO Kober Corp. has acquired RBW Industries Inc.
ELKHART — AL-KO Kober Corp. has acquired RBW Industries Inc. of Chino, Calif. RBW, is a manufacturer of recreational vehicle accessories, primarily hitches.
The majority of RBW’s employees are expected to remain with the company under the new ownership, said AL-KO, which added that it plans to expand the production capacity at the former RBW location in Chino with additional investments.
The two companies began discussions a few months ago on how best to help each other, and the acquisition decision arose out of that, the company said, noting that the parties agreed to keep the purchase price confidential.
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Protect your RV and your family while on the road: Join Good Sam RV Emergency Road Service Today and save!
The majority of RBW’s employees are expected to remain with the company under the new ownership, said AL-KO, which added that it plans to expand the production capacity at the former RBW location in Chino with additional investments.
The two companies began discussions a few months ago on how best to help each other, and the acquisition decision arose out of that, the company said, noting that the parties agreed to keep the purchase price confidential.
Full Story...
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Protect your RV and your family while on the road: Join Good Sam RV Emergency Road Service Today and save!
Proposed RV Park Prompts Boycott Campaign
STOCKTON SPRINGS — A local business owner has become the target of a boycott campaign after he recently spoke in support of a proposed RV park.
An unsigned flyer, which was posted at The Village at Stockton Harbor condominium community, said Kenneth “Skeet” Wyman and three town officials “are not friends of The Village at Stockton Harbor” and called for people to boycott two businesses Wyman is involved with.
Wyman, who is an owner of both Wyman’s Seafood and Wyman’s General Store, attended a planning board meeting on April 23 and said he supported a proposed 30-unit RV park on Cape Jellison. He said the development would help expand the town’s tax base and thereby ease the burden on taxpayers.
Condo residents have cited concerns at several planning board meetings about noise and air pollution, stormwater runoff and traffic safety issues stemming from the RV park. They have also said the RV park could lower their property values.
Full Story...
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Are you paying too much for your RV Insurance? Click here for a free quote from Good Sam VIP
An unsigned flyer, which was posted at The Village at Stockton Harbor condominium community, said Kenneth “Skeet” Wyman and three town officials “are not friends of The Village at Stockton Harbor” and called for people to boycott two businesses Wyman is involved with.
Wyman, who is an owner of both Wyman’s Seafood and Wyman’s General Store, attended a planning board meeting on April 23 and said he supported a proposed 30-unit RV park on Cape Jellison. He said the development would help expand the town’s tax base and thereby ease the burden on taxpayers.
Condo residents have cited concerns at several planning board meetings about noise and air pollution, stormwater runoff and traffic safety issues stemming from the RV park. They have also said the RV park could lower their property values.
Full Story...
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Are you paying too much for your RV Insurance? Click here for a free quote from Good Sam VIP
Monday, May 05, 2008
Northampton Beach State Park Campground Open for Season
GREAT SACANDAGA LAKE — About two-thirds of the sites at Northampton Beach state campground are either submerged or too wet to use, but the facility and four others opened on schedule Friday.
Early-season campers are hardy — and traditional, too.
Fourteen members of the extended Scarano clan from Little Falls gathered at Northampton, and some planned to stay through Wednesday. They came from as far away as Newport, R.I.
The lure? Walleye.
Not far away, Mimi and Larry Sisario of Tribes Hill were lounging beside their trailer in the rainy, 45-degree weather.
“You can’t miss opening day,” Larry Sisario said, adding that he and his wife haven’t missed one in 20 years.
“We’re always here,” Mimi Sisario said. “We don’t camp when it’s warm. We come up here and freeze.”
About 80 of the campground’s 224 sites were usable, he said. Only 30 are available for reservations.
“The other 50 are first-come, first-se
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Click Here to Join the Good Sam Club
Early-season campers are hardy — and traditional, too.
Fourteen members of the extended Scarano clan from Little Falls gathered at Northampton, and some planned to stay through Wednesday. They came from as far away as Newport, R.I.
The lure? Walleye.
Not far away, Mimi and Larry Sisario of Tribes Hill were lounging beside their trailer in the rainy, 45-degree weather.
“You can’t miss opening day,” Larry Sisario said, adding that he and his wife haven’t missed one in 20 years.
“We’re always here,” Mimi Sisario said. “We don’t camp when it’s warm. We come up here and freeze.”
About 80 of the campground’s 224 sites were usable, he said. Only 30 are available for reservations.
“The other 50 are first-come, first-se
Full Story...
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Click Here to Join the Good Sam Club
