IT’S DIFFERENT TO LEAVE LATER THAN MOST RVERS !!! Issue 12

Diary published weekly since 2001...

Read the full version of Mar 20th (newsy portion) Here...




TIPS THIS WEEK

Buying RX at COSTCO may be a big savings. As a senior in Ontario, John and I only pay $4.00 for most prescriptions under the Seniors Drug Plan. But if your province doesn’t offer this feature OR you are young – Cathy shared this solution. Go to Costco for absolutely the lowest price for RX meds. This apparently is the case in Canada as well as USA. If you are paying full price for your costly Rx then Costco is definitely worth checking out. No need to be a member – just go to the store and tell the reps at the door that you only want to visit the pharmacy. Rx drugs in many places can be sold for very elevated costs.

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More on the ZIP CODE AT THE GAS PUMPS FOR CDNS – Bernie (twice) in the Southwest and Bill (once) in the Valley have met with positive results to this ‘modified’ ZIP Code. However Rick – a Club Member from our Luncheon did not have great success at a Valero somewhere in the Rio Grande Valley – but I do not know where his station was located. So it may be too early to determine if this is a total success. In the meantime this is how it works. Punch in the numbers in your Postal Code followed by two ‘0’s’. For example ‘V8L 4X6’ – would be 8-4-6-0-0. Please keep me posted on your success and/or failure of this Hint.

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SNOWBIRD CAMPGROUND SAVINGS… I received a positive email this week from Sun RV Resorts in south Texas (does not include Florida resorts) – “Casa Del Valle”; “Kenwood”; & “Snow to Sun” are each offering the 3-months of Oct to Dec for a mere $550. They also offer one month stays for $149 and up plus discounted weekly stays as well. If your plans are not set for next season it may be worth a call. First-time visitors only. More details Here – click on Texas or call 888 406 3341. Florida offers some savings as well but not quite as low.
For instance, ‘Buttonwood Bay’ in Sebring, Florida is offering special 4-month rates Jan. 1, 2010 to May 1, 2010 for $549 per/month plus Resort Fees. But so are ALL Sun RV Resorts. Check out their specials Here... and click on Florida Resorts

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Our friend Virginia shared this beneficial website for Canadians and who like to SHOP BY FLYERS – this is a great site for info. I Googled for a similar site for the USA – so far with no luck. If any reader has a similar site, please share it with me. To see the weekly flyer of your choice go Here… - most Cdn stores that have flyers here… Thanks kid.

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PROMOS THIS WEEK

These organizers look neat for anyone with a long (top to bottom) clothes cupboard. Cost was under $10.00. WONDER HANGER has possibilities. It may not work in all RV closets, but if yours is long top to bottom, it just may be a great idea. Two links came in the same day. I have not used either of these, so you’re on your own... Details Here and Here...

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PERIODIC NEWSLETTERS…

#1 ‘RVEducation101’ RV University Newsletter this week discusses all about towing for trailers and motorhomes. His RV Garage Tips feature a video for those towing a trailer and he discusses more about Volts and Amps reference batteries plus tips for cleaning a rubber roof. Read this short Here…

Those wishing to peruse their site and/or buy any of their products – even those on sale, please follow this link… RV Living is an affiliate and we receive a bonus for any products sold.

#2 Click link to receive the RV Travel.com Newsletter. it did not come out till Sat and this Diary was written on Friday last week.

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Some tips about HOW TO GO RV GREEN from Florida State Parks….

Lighten up – Improve fuel mileage, by removing extra weight from the vehicle. It may be unused items in storage compartments, or even abundant drinking water – it weighs 8.2 pounds per gallon.

• Plan ahead – Reduce fuel consumption, travel time and additional costs by planning trips in advance – avoid backtracking.
• Consider alternatives – When purchasing an RV, consider an engine that can utilize biodiesel, it is manufactured from renewable resources.
• Also installing solar panels to power up the vehicle’s appliances can eliminate 90 percent of normal generator use.
• Save energy - If solar panels are not an option, save energy by turning off the electronics when not in use. or limit RV generator and electronics use in general.
• Keep it clean – Whatever is brought into a campsite should come back out. While stocking for a trip, try to avoid products that utilize unnecessary packaging and choose reusable storage bags.
• Recycle… plastic containers, paper products and cans along the way. Used engine oil, tires and batteries, even computers or cell phones can also be recycled at many municipal facilities.
• A water-saver showerhead… will not only reduce water usage but will save energy too.
• Use non-toxic, natural cleaning products when cleaning up after a trip.

LESS THAN TWO WEEKS TO DEPARTURE …!!! - Issue 11

This TIPS and PROMOS post is from Diary of Mar 14

Diary published weekly since 2001
Read full version of this week's Diary on line HERE


TIPS THIS WEEK

For years I have promoted the value of keeping your vehicle KEY FOB BESIDE THE BED for security while you are boondocking (without hook-ups). If you hear a sound during the night simply press the panic button to sound the vehicle alarm. Cathy sent an email covering the same topic – this time for homeowner security. Her tip came from ‘Neighbourhood Watch’. I had never thought of it for static homes. Good idea Cathy. One more addition to this is to also keep your CELL PHONE BESIDE THE BED in case your main phone line went down. You are still in contact with someone.

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More on the ZIP CODE AT THE GAS PUMPS FOR CDNS – Bernie (twice) in the Southwest and Bill (once) in the Valley are meeting with positive results to this ‘modified’ ZIP Code. How it works. Punch in the numbers in your Postal Code followed by two ‘0’s’. For example ‘V8L 4X6’ – would be 8-4-6-0-0.

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Dave sent an email warning it’s NOT WISE TO BOIL WATER IN A MICROWAVE. This is a repeat tip and although it doesn’t happen often, the process can cause injury if water is heated for more than 2-minutes per cup. It is a long explanation but one solution is to let the cup stand in the microwave for thirty seconds before moving it or adding anything into it… or put something non-metalic in the cup/bowl before heating it. Story HERE

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Pat and Dennis mounted a LIGHT ON THEIR T.V. ANTENNA. Now they have a yard light.

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PROMOS THIS WEEK

Bill shared more products containing CONTAMINATED PEANUT BUTTER. This latest report featureing problems with Austin and Keebler crackers is HERE John and I simply don’t buy any packaged food that contains peanut butter.

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Recent RV RECALLS for January – List is short for January and sorry, but February listing has not been posted – Links to previous recall p/month are listed on the left.

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Very Informative PERIODIC RV NEWSLETTERS you may wish to read – valuable info …

#1 – See ‘RVEducation101’ monthly blurb – scroll down to RV Newsletter from links on left.
A few highlights of their March Newsletter…
** Extend life of your RV Exterior…
** Marks RV Garage Tips – is a video on RV Exterior…
** RV Buying Info…
** Q ref Fridge and A/C operation when Rig is in storage…
** Q ref carrying LP in a motorhome…
** Keep things from moving during transit…
** Spring preparation checklist….

#2 – ‘RVTravel.com’ arrives each Sat. This week includes many positive tips from qualified RV writers. Info highlighted below is from –

** Free or low cost parks) at Free Campgrounds.com (as of 3-13-09): now lists 1,738 entries
** All about Fifth Wheel Tires and Axles HERE
** Fire Safety Tips to keep your RV Fire-Safe - HERE
** How to clean your RV water system after a trip HERE
** List of RV Makers that are now out of business and those who filed for Chapter 11 - HERE
** Best source of information about working on the road is HERE
** Tips to install an electric outlet at home to plug in RV HERE
** Your RV Tires: the weakest link - HERE
** Tips for Driving your RV in Mountainous Country

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DAILY GOOGLE RV ALERTS …

** Driving in the mountains with an RV - different thoughts than above – another good article – HERE
** Get your RV ready to roll - HERE

TEXAS WIND-DOWN HAS BEGUN …!!! - Issue 10 from March 7th

Diary published weekly since 2001
Read this Diary on line HERE

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Hi Guys: One thing is certain. The caravans heading north have begun. There are so many empty spots in the parks right now – it looks like it did last November. Between 13-20 departed every day during the past week. No matter where you drive in the Valley, RV’s are on the roadways.

Many Canadian Snowbirds must still be here because notices continue to arrive for the EXPLORER RV CLUB LUNCHEON at the ‘Golden Corral in Weslaco’ on the 19th Mar – if you’ll be in the Valley please join us. EMAIL Guests are welcome. Drop a note for more details – however for planning it’s important we know if you can join us. Those heading out - we hope you have a safe journey.

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TIPS THIS WEEK

More on the ZIP CODE at the gas pumps for Cdns –
As a follow up, Bernie sent this – “I am so excited it worked”. He fuel up at a Shell Station in Desert Hot Springs, AZ and inserted in his visa – when asked for his ZIP Code he entered the #’s in his Cdn postal code (PC) in the exact order plus two zeroes – i.e. his Code is: V8L 4X6 – he entered 8-4-6-0-0. Amazingly it was ‘Authorized’. He plans to test at a different station before he declares it official.

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Bonnie shared this site to identify where an unknown PHONE NUMBER comes from. At this site HERE you simply type in the number that keeps calling you to find details of who the telemarketer is. You can also report a bad number. Bonnie has book marked it for future reference.

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COFFEE FILTERS are extremely useful – buy a 1000 in the $$$ store – 6 tips of 14 are below – more to follow…
1. Coffee filters make excellent covers for bowls or dishes when cooking in the microwave.
2. Coffee filters are Lint-free so they'll leave windows sparkling.
3. Protect china by separating your good dishes by putting a coffee filter between each dish.
4. If you break the Cork when opening a wine bottle, filter the wine through a coffee filter.
5. Place a coffee filter in the skillet to absorb moisture and prevent rust.
6. Apply shoe polish by balling up a lint-free coffee filter.

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PROMOS THIS WEEK

RV SHOWS continue to be extremely popular this year – super savings are waiting for those who wish to upgrade or to get into this fantastic lifestyle. What a perfect Buying Time - if you have access to cash flow? Many shows also feature a wide selection of used units as well. If the one in your area does not include used units, then meet your local dealer and visit them later. US/Cda show listings are HERE - & Cdn HERE…

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There is also no better time than now to purchase Les Doll’s ‘GUIDE TO BUYING A USED RV’. Les explains problems you may not see on your own and also what to look for that can cause potential problems down the road. Read all about it HERE Be Aware before you buy.

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Recent RV RECALLS for January – List is short for January and sorry but February listing has not been posted. – Links to previous recall p/month are listed on the left.

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Very Informative PERIODIC RV NEWSLETTERS you may wish to read…
#1 – ‘Mark Polk’s’ mini newsletter arrives Monday’s – last week covers ***Accurate Tire Pressure Gauges ***Tires *** Why batteries boil plus battery care *** Mark's RV Garage Video Tip – How to improve Fuel Efficiency & more… Read it HERE
#2 – Receive ‘RVEducation101’ monthly blurb HERE – scroll down to RV Newsletter from links on left.
#3 – ‘RVTravel.com’ arrives each Sat HERE. Although this week includes many positive tips and info highlighted below – I detest the latest Gloom and Doom of many RV newsletters (TV news already does that) but the positive input below is worth a read. This recession will eventually turn around even if it may be a bit of a rough go in the meantime. I sympathize big time with those who lost their jobs - try to hang in there for better days ahead.

# a – Russ and Tina De Maris are Boondockers who highlight survival rules for ‘RVing in the Desert’.. HERE
# b – On this Post they offer information reference future ‘Solar Panels’ that will be thin as cling wrap.
# c – In this day and age where many RVers are ‘Repairing or Remodeling RV’s’, this Article by Russ and Tina on “How to repair your RV with putty tape?” may be also be beneficial…
# d – RVTV will not renewed on cable's Outdoor Channel – After 5-yrs, the ‘RVTV Show’ will no longer air on the Outdoor Channel, they did not renew the show for 2009 – Looking for more options.
# e – Gary Bunzer discusses how to deal with mice in an RV HERE
# f – Mark Polk discusses battery care… HERE
# g – Read how ‘Highway Hostesses’ kept US gas stations clean in the ‘30’s HERE

OUR LUXOR IS PRETTY AGAIN…!!! - Feb 28TH – Issue 9

(My Forum is now on line and running as it should).

Diary published weekly since 2001
Read the full version of this Diary on line HERE

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TIPS THIS WEEK

At the Luncheon several RVers asked about the ZIP CODE THAT CDNS CAN PUNCH IN AT THE GAS PUMP so there is no need to leave a Cr. Cd. at the gas office while they pump gas. I reported it in reverse order. Bernie sent me this tip a few weeks ago but I have NOT had a chance to test it. The original in the RV Times magazine (fm BC) suggested that Cdns add a secondary USA address to their credit cards. We did this – it’s only an address and no action is taken on that info. Those without a USA Mail Forwarding can use address from your US snowbird park. BUT some RVers state this didn’t work - as a result one member now stays with the card while the other pumps. That works but it’s a nuisance. We buy a gas card at Wal*Mart and fuel at Fly J – without problems.

Bernie sent this NEW TIP and although I relayed it at the luncheon, I did so backwards - Sorry. He was told by a lady in a gas station that when asked for a ZIP Code we should simply enter the 3-digits of your area code in the order that they appear in the code, and then add two zeros. i.e. BERNIE’S AREA CODE IS V8L 4X6, SO THE CODE HE WOULD ENTER WOULD BE: 8-4-6-0-0.

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Many of us stop at LAUGHLIN during our travels – this interesting historical video highlights why Laughlin is a special place. HERE...

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VIRUS’S & SCAMS...
#1…Sandi shared an email stating ‘Do Not DIAL AREA CODE 809, 284, AND 876’. Apparently a voice message asks you to call a number in these area codes to pick-up a serious message. You’re kept on line for a long expensive out of country call. Supposedly AT&T as well as Snopes verified it, although these reports list concerns, the threat is not all doom and gloom. Just don’t call anyone you don’t know – if you’re concerned call the person they talk about and not the number in the phone message. Read story HERE


#2… Bill warns that ’Adobe PDF files’ may be infected. These are files many use to publish ebooks and more. Adobe is working on a FIX solution – in the meantime they advise this caution on their website. …”Meanwhile, the advice for this type of thing remains typical: Be extra careful when opening e-mail attachments -- even a well-meaning friend's a '.PDF' file might be infected. Also, update your virus-fighting software programs, and, as always, be vigilant”…. Read the full story of this popular software HERE.

#3… Angie warns of opening attachment of POSTCARDS or E-CARDS from HALLMARK from a non-specific person such as a ‘family’ member. This has circulated numerous times over the years. The attachment is reputed to burn your hard drive. Some truth is reported in the threat, but the bottom line is to be cautious of opening all attachments – especially non-descript ones. To open an e-card never click on the link – go to the site mentioned to enter the number of your card. Also if you hover your mouse over the link be sure the URL in your task bar is the same as the link in the email. Story HERE .

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Dave warned of a major health threat if young kids ingest HAND SANITIZER by licking their hands. This is serious – can be fatal. Worth a READ

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PROMOS THIS WEEK

Do you have your copy of 'HAPPY HOUR RECIPES’ by the Cooking Ladies. This selection of quick and easy ‘Not-To-Be-Missed’ creations are available in an easy downloadable E-book! Gathering on an RV Patio is such a fun way to socialize, but these recipes will also be a huge hit at any back yard BBQ or when friends and family gravitate to your home as well. Read more and order your copy today – only $6.00 USD. Details HERE

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RV SHOWS are very popular this year – huge bargains are waiting. US/Cda show listings HERE - & Cdn Shows HERE…

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Recent RV RECALLS for January – List is short this month – see previous months listed on the left.

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Very Informative PERIODIC NEWSLETTERS you may wish to read…
Mark Polk’s mini newsletter each Monday – Go HERE
RVEducation101 monthly in your inbox – Go HERE & scroll down to RV Newsletter –left
RVTravel.com each Sat via your inbox – Go HERE

27 YEARS AGO…!!! Feb 21st – Issue 8

Our 27th Anniversary...

Diary published weekly since 2001
Read this Diary on line at HERE

TIPS THIS WEEK

RENTING YOUR RV for a short term is a great idea. This suggestion came through in my Google RV Alert today. Raymond Brody, owner of Camper's Corner in Madison, Tennessee had a request to provide more than 100 RVs for staff and guests of an upcoming event. To accommodate this request, he asked his customers to bring in their RV’s that were in storage for the duration of the festival – he promised to pay each owner from $750. to $1000 to use their units – easy money for everyone. He met the request with super success. Maybe more dealers will think this way in the future.

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Patti shared - Effective mid Feb, all Verizon/Alltel phones are considered MOBILE TO MOBILE. That means any one with either service will not be charged minutes when calling each other.

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Carolyn passed on the fact that… ‘COCOA MULCH’ is being sold in many stores because of the pleasant smell it gives off. Some brands are promoted to be safe for all pets plus many animals will not go near it. However some packages have no such warning. At least one dog has died from ingesting it. Just be aware that chocolate is lethal to dogs and cats. Since it smells like inviting chocolate they may be enticed to eat some. I edited a long email to highlight this but if using mulch applies to you, read this entire story HERE

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Adrienne Kristine of RV Travel.com created a PERMANENT GROCERY LIST. (edited for space)… When she shops, she buys many of the same things each week. So she made a list of standard purchases and laminated it for reuse at Kinko’s/Fed Ex etc. With an erasable marker she checks off each item she needs throughout the week - while shopping she simply wipes off the mark as she puts the item in her cart. This ways she doesn't forget anything and her reusable lists lasts indefinitely.

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PROMOS THIS WEEK

The Cooking Ladies have done it again with a ‘Not-To-Be-Missed’ new easy downloadable E-Book! What a neat idea to present a selection of quick and easy 'HAPPY HOUR RECIPES'. The most common form of entertaining for most RVers is casual 'Happy-Hours'. Gathering on an RV Patio is such a fun way to socialize. These recipes will also be a huge hit at any back yard BBQ or when friends and family gravitate to your home as well. Read more and order your copy today – only $6.00 USD. Details HERE

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What a perfect time to drive away in a ‘Dream Home on wheels’! Why not visit the next RV SHOW? Traffic is up and many great deals are waiting. Some shows may also include USED units in their inventory. US/Cda show listings HERE - & Cdn HERE… My Show page is not current.

Two quality experts in RV INSURANCE businesses – Explorerrv.com for USA RVers – in CDA, especially eastern Canada, none is better than Wayfarer A MUST READ STORY is “Look for the Difference.”

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Last weeks RV University newsletter has mega info including ‘MARK’S FUEL SAVING TIPS’ plus ‘TIPS TO SAFELY TRAVEL DOWNHILL’… Eighty percent of all towing related accidents happen when you’re traveling downhill. It takes approximately three times longer to stop than if you were on a flat surface and the greater your speed the greater the stopping distance required. Here are a few tips to tow on downgrades. Read MORE

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This week’s RVTravel.com newsletter is loaded - Several topics include HOW TO FLUSH A RV BLACK TANK by Jim Twambly; Gary Bunzer the RV Doctor, addresses MECHANICAL PROBLEMS DISCOVERED AFTER BUYING A CONSIGNMENT COACH plus Mark Polk discusses HOW TO INSPECT FOR WATER DAMAGE .

The GUIDE TO BUYING A USED RV by Les Doll is another publication definitely worth a read, although this publication is not mentioned in the RVTravel.com newsletter, the contents are super valuable if you are buying a used RV. Details HERE

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There is a ‘TOAD FOR SALE’ on the Marketplace Forum at RVLiving.net Forum

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!!!

Tips and Hints from 14th Feb - Issue 7

Diary published weekly since 2001
Read this Diary on line HERE

TIPS THIS WEEK

If this is a perfect time to drive away in a ‘Dream Home on wheels’, why not visit an RV Show. See US/Cda shows - - Cdn
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Bill received these SECURITY TIPS from a lawyer who had his wallet stolen. More to follow in future weeks…

*** PHOTOCOPY CONTENTS of your wallet – copy both sides of each license, credit card, etc. In the past I suggested every RVer makes a list of each item complete with card numbers, contact info, etc. Store the info in a safe place. If you encounter a problem, cancellations are easier with access to these numbers. Stolen Cards can lead to total identity theft. Never put your SIN# to wallet contents.

*** If your wallet is stolen, call the two NATIONAL CREDIT REPORTING ORGANIZATIONS immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and SIN#. This advice was news to this lawyer until his bank called to inform him an application for credit was made over the Net in his name.

*** To prove you are diligent, always file a POLICE REPORT immediately in the jurisdiction where your wallet was stolen. Apparently there are records of all the credit checks initiated by the thief's purchases which means any company that checks your credit knows your information was stolen, they must contact you by phone to authorize new credit. The numbers you need to contact…1.) Equifax Canada: 1-877-249-2705; 2.) TransUnion: 1-877-525-3823

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Gary Bunzer – the RV Doctor answers a question about the SIZE OF BATTERIES AND RESERVE CAPACITY versus amp-hour capacity. HERE

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Angie shared this tidbit - CANADA REVENUE AGENCY (CRA) WARNS OF MAIL SCAM … For your own protection, please DO NOT provide personal information should you receive such a request in the mail. Full Details HERE

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PROMOS THIS WEEK

The Cooking Ladies have done it again!!!! What a neat idea to present a selection of quick and easy 'HAPPY HOUR RECIPES' - this time in an easy downloadable ebook. As an avid long-time RVer, the most common form of entertaining for most of us is casual 'Happy-Hours'. Gathering at regular intervals on an RV Patio is such a fun way to socialize. These ideas will also be a huge hit at any back yard BBQ or when friends and family gravitate to your home as well.

I am presently following a 'healthy-eating weight-loss plan' and I'm happy to relay that the ingredients in most of these one-of-a-kind delicacies fit into the guidelines of my Portion Controls. Thanks one more time Ladies for sharing how to make your tasty one-of-a-kind creations. Click link to read more and order your copy today. Only $6.00 USD HERE

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In a Google RV Alert today, USA Senators have ADD TAX CUTS FOR CYCLES & RVs to stimulus. All purchasers of new cars, light trucks, motor homes and motorcycles will be able to deduct sales tax paid through the end of this year, Read MORE

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Another Google RV Alert highlights a LUXURY PLUS RV is available for those who still have money. Sticker price for the 2009 model H3-45’ Marathon Coach is only $2,066,671. It includes a Jacuzzi and 42” & 32” TV – the small one is available outside along with every extra imaginable. It’s on display at Kansas City RV show

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Ruth shared this very informative video on the life of RV TIRES. It’s been around before but worth listening to again. Go HERE. Ignore short commercial