Sunday, June 29, 2008

TIME TO CELEBRATE OUR FREEDOM

TIPS AND PROMOS for CANADA DAY & INDEPENDENCE DAY - Issue 26.

Diary published weekly since 2001
Read this Diary on line HERE


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TIPS THIS WEEK

At the Rally my seminar covered RV Living Tips. Afterwards, several RVers who are not on the computer shared a few of their tips. Unfortunately the names of who passed on the first two escapes me…

*** Spray CITRUS FLAVOUR LISTERINE on your lawn chair before you sit around the fire apparently the mosquitos will stay away. Theses flying insects are usually worse at dusk. Other forms of Citrus flavour sprays may also work).

***Rub CITRUS HAND CLEANER on hatbands and peaks – even on light colour hats – and when they are washed ALL stains disappear. (Editors NOTE: We use Dawn Dish Soap on John’s hats before they go into the machine.)

Tip from my seminar at the Explorer RV Club Rally near Windsor, Ontario...

*** Rub LEMON JUICE on difficult stains such as green marks from grass BEFORE they are washed will help dissolve the stain.

*** Another seminar tip – SPRAY A LIGHT BULB WITH PERFUME for an instant room freshener.

*** Cathy shared these four – THERAPY FOR TOENAIL FUNGUS: Soak your toes in Listerine mouthwash. The powerful antiseptic stops the progress of the fungus and leaves your toenails looking healthy again.

*** To prevent the SCREWS IN EYEGLASSES FROM LOOSENING, apply a small drop of Maybelline Crystal Clear Nail Polish to the threads of the screws before tightening them.

*** KILLS FLEAS INSTANTLY... Dawn Dishwashing Liquid does the trick. Add a few drops to your dog's bath and shampoo the animal thoroughly. Rinse well to avoid skin irritations. Good-bye fleas.

*** RAINY DAY CURE FOR DOG ODOR – Next time your dog comes in from the rain, simply wipe down the animal with Bounce or any dryer sheet, instantly making your dog smell springtime fresh.

*** I received a recent email from JIG-A-WORLD detailing a neat product called ‘JIG-A-LOO’. This product is promoted for hundreds of practical RV uses. It can, for example, protect the rubber seals on your RV from drying and cracking, or spray it on your shoes, boots, garments, tents, backpacks, canopies and RV covers to keep them dry. The list continues – if WD-40 works so will Jig-a-Loo. It is sold in stores such as Wal*Mart etc. Cost in Cda Wal*Mart is only $5.49. We picked up a can a week ago and found it functioned similar to silicon spray. More Details HERE or call 888-JIGALOO (800-544-2566).

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PROMO THIS WEEK

*** When it comes to RV INSURANCE FOR CANADIANS there is no policy that offers more than Wayfarer RVInsurance. Joe Martin, former owner of Wayfarer RV Insurance wrote a fantastic story called Look for the Difference (when buying RV Insurance) – definitely worth a read. For full info on this outstanding RV Coverage for Cdns go HERE

*** From what we have heard from our American RV friends the best RV INSURANCE FOR AMERICANS is Explorer RV Insurance.

*** For up to date towing info – Trailer Life's "GUIDE TO TOWING" is now available.

*** Norm and Linda Payne have been Fulltiming for many years. Norm frequently adds some humorous and informative stories to his comprehensive site. Norm feels that although Fulltiming and even Part Timing is a lifestyle – it is not a vacation. He relays that RVing is actually more costly than living in a house, but he also writes that RVers have a choice as to how they wish to spend their money. With planning they can still fully enjoy the RV life. See more HERE

*** A variety of ‘YouTube Videos’ covering all aspect of Cdn Military - even in Afghanistan can be found HERE

Sunday, June 22, 2008

TIPS AND PROMOS Week 25

TIPS THIS WEEK week 25
TIME TO MOVE AGAIN - HOORAY

Diary published weekly since 2001
Read this Diary on line
HERE

HINTS FOR ‘STAYCATIONERS’…
Mark Polk of RVEducation101.com answered my plea for a selection of TIPS RVING STAYCATIONERS should consider – I needed them for my latest story. I share them here for the interest of everyone.

1) Turn the water supply off and relieve water pressure on the system by opening a hot/cold faucet.
2) Empty your fridge and turn it off. If power is disrupted food will easily spoil, causing Bad odors.
3) Secure all personal property - double check all locks and storage compartment doors before leaving.
4) Turn off each LP gas appliances and turn the main supply valve to off.

5) Inform management you will be away and ask them to keep an eye on your unit for you. (Note from Peggi – you may want to leave a key with park management or with a friend.)
6) As far as having electric power available to the unit – you have two choices. If the refrigerator is empty, unplug the unit and turn off all battery disconnects. OR Leave the unit plugged in and use some light timers so various lights turn on each evening. The battery should be okay for a week or so if unit is plugged in, but Mark suggests to always check the water levels in batteries before leaving.
7) Close window blinds or drapes to prevent nosey neighbors from snooping around. (Note from Peggi – Close them to also block the suns harmful rays from fading the interior.)
8) Take all valuables like expensive jewellery and paperwork with you in the event something happens to your unit at the campground.
9) Make sure you have the proper RV insurance to protect the RV while you are away.

As I said earlier, my story is “Continue to use your RV – Become a Staycationer!!!” The tips above will help pave the way for that story.

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Cathy shared this info – I have received it several times over a few months. But it is worth passing on. Dialing any of these Area Codes will lead to a costly monthly bill. They are located in distant places and the caller may try to keep you on the phone extensively. When your bill comes in your total could be at several thousands

In brief, the email begins like this…
“We actually received a call last week from the 809 Area Code. A voice on the phone said, Hey, this is Karen. Sorry I missed you – get back to us quickly. I have something important to tell you. Then she repeated a phone number beginning with 809. Thankfully we didn't respond.

Then this week, we (The sender) received a warning e-mail: Subject: DON'T EVER dial area code 809, 284 and 876."

Read full story/email Here It is apparently true, Warning: Be cautious when returning phone calls to ALL numbers when you’re not sure of their origins.

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Margaret shared an email reference a simple blood test that supposedly detects difficult to find SIGNS OF OVARIAN CANCER. This long post suggested that even if you no longer have your ovaries, you could still contract one or two forms of Ovarian Cancer.

Diagnosis is apparently confirmed via a simple CA-125 BLOOD TEST, treatment follows with surgery to remove the primary tumor and then chemotherapy. Unfortunately if you receive this email, please do not send it on because according to Snopes.com, it’s a FALSE report. Read the entire story Here


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PROMO THIS WEEK week 25

COACHMEN RV GROUP is offering rebates on new RV’s – they call this promo "Coachmenomic Stimulus Program." The following is just one link of many that have come across my inbox recently. If a new RV is in your future, then it may be worth checking out Here.

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My good friend and partner, Diane Batten died of a RARE FORM OF CANCER 4-years ago. Numerous more of her childhood friends from their neighbourhood, including her younger sister also contracted other rare forms of many different maladies. As kids they all played in the local creek behind the Westinghouse Canada Plant. This company used these chemicals and randomly disposed of the PCB’s they used with few guidelines. Diane’s sister, Joanne and her mother have joined a group to make Westinghouse responsible for their actions.

Read more on this story and check out the following petition to make Westinghouse Canada participate in a Public Inquiry – hopefully you will sign it while you are there. Petition is asking for your support "TO INSURE WESTINGHOUSE MUST PARTICIPATE IN A CALL FOR PUBLIC INQUIRY INTO PCB CONTAMINATION IN LONDON, ON" Sign Here...

I encourage everyone to add their signature to this important document. It's free and takes less than a minute of your time. Your support is appreciated.

Sunday, June 15, 2008

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY TO ALL DAD'S !!!

Issue 24 ....

Diary published weekly since 2001
Read Full Version of this week's Diary on line
HERE:
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TIPS THIS WEEK

Bill from California shared these New EXCESSIVE DRIVING FINES - effective 1 July, 2008. These are steep for sure. Be cautious if your travels take you to CA this summer.

*** CARPOOL LANE - 1st time $1068.50 starting 7/1/08 (The $271 posted on the highway is old); 2nd time – Doubles; 3rd time – Triple; 4th time- License suspended.

*** INCORRECT LANE CHANGE - $380. Don't cross lanes on solid lines or in intersections.

*** BLOCKING AN INTERSECTION - $485

*** DRIVING ON THE SHOULDER - $450

*** CELL PHONE USE in the construction zone. - Double fine as of 07/01/08.

*** Cell phone use must be "HANDS FREE" while driving. Ticket is $285. They will be looking for this like crazy - easy money for police department!

*** Passengers over 18 must wear SEATBELTS - passengers & drivers receive ticketa.

*** DUI = JAIL (Stays on your driving record for 10 years !!!!!!)

*** SPEEDERS can only drive 3-miles above the limit.


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RECOGNIZING A STROKEI’ve shared this before and received it recently twice more, so I am sharing it again.

Important – Try to REMEMBER THESE '3' STEPS – 'S.T.R.’

Sometimes SYMPTOMS OF A STROKE are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster. The stroke victim may suffer severe brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke...

Doctors relay a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions...

*** S *Ask the individual to SMILE.
*** T *Ask the person to TALK and SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE (Coherently)(i.e. It is sunny out today)
*** R *Ask him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS.

If he or she has trouble with ANY ONE OF THESE TASKS, call 911/999 immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.

New Sign of a Stroke -------- Stick out Your Tongue!!! If the tongue is 'crooked', if it goes to one side or the other, that is also an indication of a stroke. According to Snopes.com this sign is better forgotten due to interpretation.

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WHAT TO DO IN A TORNADO? - Many parks don’t have TORNADO SHELTERS but if yours does, this blog from RV Travel.com details how to prepare for this disaster…

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PROMO THIS WEEK

In this months FCOC (Freightliner Chassis Owners Club) monthly newsletter, the SERVICE LIFE FOR RV/MOTORHOME TIRES has been updated. It states that if your RV/Motorhome Tires are showing no sign of wear, they could last up to ‘10-YEARS’. This report is extremely interesting for ALL Motorhome owners. Read full story HERE


It’s a PDF file so you need to download this free software from Adobe.com if you do not have it on your computer.

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Our friend Tom had the TREAD SEPARATE FROM HIS BRIDGESTONE TIRES on his Honda SUV. This link relays to ATX; ATX II; or Wilderness from BRIDGESTONE TIRE RECALL where the tread peels off… It highlights many of the faulty tires are from the Decatur, Illinois plant. FAILED TIRES can cause vehicle to roll over. Especially Ford Explorer. Read more HERE...

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This week’s RV TRAVEL newsletter editor, Chuck, shares another outlook on the costs of RVing – he relays it is still a good time to go Fulltiming. His numerous additional tidbits include the latest RV RECALLS or a new FREE RV CAMPING FORUM and more… Read Newsletter HERE

Sunday, June 8, 2008

SEEMS LIKE SUMMER HAS FINALLY ARRIVED

TIPS AND PROMOS ARE AGAIN COMBINED THIS WEEK Issue 23

Diary published weekly since 2001

Read this complete Diary on line HERE

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FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

Part of our weekly ‘pick-up mail’ excursion Thursday morning, we stopped at the TILLSONBURG FIRE & SAFETY EQUIPMENT STORE 1-866-645-8887. When John used our Fire Extinguisher to put out the birds nest fire around the light on the Park Model across the street, several weeks ago, we were just happy our extinguisher worked.

Since we have had it for a long time, we had our doubts. But once it has been discharged - a complete recharge becomes a necessity. What we did not know is Fire Extinguishers (ours was 11-yrs) have a 12-YEAR LIFE before they need refurbishing – at least in Ontario. If yours is older than that, you too should visit such a place to ask questions. This company gives a 6-year recharge for $14.95 and for an additional similar price they will take it apart to completely refurbish it to last another 12 years.

The best part of all of this is Tillsonburg Fire & Safety Equipment gave us a loaner to use if we unfortunately need one before ours is ready for pick-up. The 1997 expiry date on ours was engraved at the bottom.

It may be worth checking the date on yours. These techs will also come to a park/club etc to present a low-cost demo if requested. We had looked for a Fire Department to take it to for recharging – but they would have simply given our extinguisher to this store for servicing. Sure hope none of us ever have to use these valuable accessories, but it is comforting to know that yours is in working condition.

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RECEIVING RV NEWSLETTERS is a perfect way to stay on top of what is going on within the industry. These two came in today – both are nothing short of LOADED.

In RVEDUCATION 101.COM newsletter Mark discusses a ‘digital-line monitor’, ‘surge guards’ plus ‘autoformers’ in a story about ‘Turning On The Air’ (ensuring you have enough power to run appliances). Mark & Dawn also discuss their new E-book – ‘RV Awning Use and Care’; ‘Insiders Guide to Buying an RV’ (Print and Ebook version) – plus a series of ‘How-to’ DVD’s and Ebooks’ covering all aspects of the various models of RV’s. They feature economical ‘Bargain Boxes’ and an ‘RV Seminar DVD 6-pack’ just to name a few. RV Education101 is in the final stages of releasing a new DVD publication ‘Drive your Motorhome Like a Pro” – The INSTANT download is available now... There is so much to take in on this site...

FYI: This HERE takes you directly to this months newsletter, but click HERE to the entire site where RVLiving.net receives an affiliate fee… Check out both Links. Contact Dawn by phone at 1-910-484-7615 if you prefer - tell her Peggi asked you to call.

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RV RECALLS FOR MAY !!!

This week’s RV TRAVEL.COM highlights the numerous safety recalls of motorhomes, fifth wheels and trailers. Many are late model units. Among the companies issuing recalls include Winnebago, Fleetwood, Jayco, Country Coach, Airstream and others. Full MAY listings here - RV RECALLS . This week’s newsletter also overflows with additional information about recalls that occurred since last Aug and so much more. The video on how to flush a water heater is extremely helpful – a Branson KOA is paying campers a healthy cashback from $50-$400 if residents stay between a week and up to a month. This weekly newsletter simply overflows with info every Saturday. Read full blurb HERE.

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In the GOOD SAM NEWSLETTER there are even more RV Recalls. Another newsletter worth reading Owners may contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327–4236 or visit Safety.gov for more information.

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I received a Q this week about – “I have seen a few Forest Rivers units on the road but have not noticed the Americana name on them?” I asked several Fiver owners and received a variety of answers – I posted their answers to RV Living.net Ask a Q Forum, but Bill sent this one that I thought would be beneficial to everyone – it is a Free rating. Read it HERE.

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BEWARE WHEN ORDERING PARTS ON LINE

Tom shared a fact that when he ordered parts on line from a popular on-line RV Parts service – twice he was told he needed extra pieces – they weren’t expensive but on two occasions he receive duplicate pieces . The cost to send them back was higher than any refund amount, so he ended up paying additional unnecessary money. He asked me to warn others to make sure they only order what they need. The second time he simply destroyed the extra $27.00 door for a new water heater – one came with original package.

I offered the following suggestions for a peaceful solution….
***Why not take a picture of both doors and send one back with a kind note requesting they cover the shipping costs because you were told to order double parts?
***If they do not do anything about it then go to the BBB?
***Also be sure to post the info on several forums - get the word out there.
***If they won’t do anything, then call your Cr Cd company to cancel the purchase.
***It was the tech you talked to that obviously did not know what was what and his superior may not even be aware of it.
***Try to find a diplomatic solution instead of being mad and throw it into the garbage.


Travel Safe All P&J
www.rvliving.net

Sunday, June 1, 2008

CHANGING RV TRAVEL PLANS OF 2008

CHANGING RV TRAVEL PLANS - issue 22

TIPS & PROMOS

Diary published weekly since 2001
Read Full Diary on line
HERE

Note from the Newsy portion of this weeks DIARY

STAYCATIONERS

A new word has recently surfaced “Staycationers” – this may be the answer for some of us. Many RVers and those living in ‘stick houses’ take regular ‘vacations’ – where you vacate your normal residence. Well ‘Staycationers’ make plans for a great vacation without moving too far away. Those in a ‘stick house’, cut the grass and pre-pay bills etc. before their holiday start. They then enjoy all the touristy things they would do if they were in a new area. RVers take a different slant to things. They drive their RV to a near-by campground to enjoy an outing or for a season and they plan to store it at the park till their next visit. Travelling back and forth by car is much less costly and they can still enjoy this majestic RV lifestyle. RV Parks are also rolling with the changes, many have set-up storage areas to accommodate part time "Staycationers". A simple modification to travel plans may offer a way to enjoy this amazing, contagious life in an RV that we love.

The one thing we all must be cautious of is that bad news sells news copy and so does less than perfect reports on TV. These news blurbs do set the stage for hysteria, but when all the dust settles they may not be a total disaster. Yes gas and fuel costs continue to increase and as a result everything we buy or use is becoming higher. But this is not the first similar crisis many RVers endured over the years and with a little creative thinking most of us will get through it as well. I know that our retiree pension does not have a fuel increase built into it and niether do most of our budgets. Keep thinking positive – life IS cyclical. Misery sometimes loves company, but Europe and England have been dealing with higher costs than we have for years. Although 2008 may not be a great travel year, but life is full of ups and down. If we can find the patience to ride this stormy period out – we will find a way to cope. Take a long look at all your options; there is a way to continue to RVing, enough of the Pep Talk for now!!!

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TIPS AND PROMOS COMBINED THIS WEEK - THERE ARE MANY!!!

SPACESHIP SIGHTINGS. The NASA SPACSHIP path is still visible at low altitude to see with the naked eye until 6 June. Right now you can see both the re-supply ship and the regular It’ll be over 3 years till we get to see it again. Schedule HERE - Follow links to ‘Country’; then ‘State or Province’; then ‘City – Print timetable of your viewing area. Awesome !!!

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VARIETY OF THIS AND THAT…

*** Lorne shared this tip from the Escapee’s site – I reported the info in mid April, but it bears repeating. FLYING J AND VISA CARDS ARE BUDDIES AGAIN – cards are now accepted at all their pumps and stations. A new tracking system identifies its loyal customers through the RV Real Value Card – it overrides the $75 purchase limit at the pump or buying the gift card etc. Fly J stated there is not need to carry a Loyalty card to work but you may have to make a couple of fuel purchases at a station so the system will remember you. If you change cards, the pump may want you to make 1-2 transactions to establish a positive history. Time to give them another try - they still feature low prices.

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John McD shared that in July, ILLINOIS HAS STIFF FINES FOR SPEEDING IN WORK ZONES with speeds posted below 45MPH – thanks to photo radar; two Vans can copy drivers license/plate (tags) of violators – fines begin at $375 for 1st offense ($1000. + 90 day suspension for a 2nd infraction). Demerit points may also be assessed.

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Bill F. stated that STEALING GAS/FUEL IS ON THE INCREASE BIG TIME. Be sure to install a lock on your vehicles and if you overnight in ‘free’ places, always ask if the place offers on-site security.

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John McD shared this info on his return to Cda, AGENTS AT THE BORDER THREATENED TO CONFISCATE DOG TREATS HE BOUGHT during a short trip across the border. The officer did allow him to keep them, but be warned to either travel without any food/treats etc. or check before you reach the border. Phone numbers constantly change; but as of 27 May 08 these contacts are current CANADA BORDER SERVICES AGENCY - 1-204-983-3500 (Winnipeg, MB) or 1-506-636-5064 (St Johns, NB) - FOOD ALLOWED TO USA? - 1-810-985-6126 or for general info 1-877-CUSTOMS – (USA only–not always answered?)

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Tom shared this GENERAL INFO ABOUT RV SAFETY. It is better to Travel Safe than deal with later problems. This site also covers Prevention of Road Rage; Protecting Personal Belongings; Taking an Inventory; RV Windshield Repairs; Temporary RV Repairs; RV Tire Care; RV Awning Care and more are also covered.

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Sandi shared THESE FROM A PETROLEUM PROFESSIONAL REF PUMPING GAS He has 31 years experience with a California Petroleum company.

*** Only fill up your vehicle during early morning when the ground temperature is still cold. All storage tanks are buried below ground. The colder it is, the more dense the gas – warm gas expands. In the petroleum business, the specific gravity and the temperature of all gas/fuel products play an important role.

*** A 1-degree rise in temperature is a big deal in his business. But the service stations do not have temperature compensation at the pumps.

*** While filling, don’t squeeze nozzle trigger to fast mode. In low speed, you minimize vapors created during pumping - all hoses have a vapor return. Fast pump turns some liquid to a vapor that’s sucked back into the underground storage tank. Less gas for per/$.

*** Only fill up when gas tank is HALF FULL. The more gas in your tank the less air occupying its empty space. Gasoline evaporates faster than you can imagine. Gasoline storage tanks have an internal floating roof. This roof serves as zero clearance between the gas and the atmosphere, so it minimizes the evaporation. Unlike service stations – where I work, every truck that we load is temperature compensated so that every gallon is actually the exact amount.

*** Last Tip – if there is a truck pumping into the storage tanks when you stop to buy gas, DO NOT fill up--most likely the gasoline is being stirred up during the storage tank fill. Dirt normally settles on the bottom. Hope helps getting most value for your money.