Camping in national forests can be a year-round endeavor, but for many people Memorial Day weekend is the deadline to air out the tents, dust off the hiking boots and load up on the makings for s’mores.

The days are warmer and longer. It’s a perfect time to start reintroducing yourself to the fun and excitement and the calm and peacefulness national forests and grasslands have to offer.

Most of the recreation sites on the San Bernardino National Forest will be open for forest visitors by Memorial Day weekend.  “The forest is ready for the 2010 summer recreation season,” said Forest Supervisor Jeanne Wade Evans. “We encourage people to enjoy the outdoors while camping, hiking, mountain biking, fishing or a variety of other recreational activities on our forest.”  As always, forest officials encourage visitors to be aware of their surroundings and responsibilities when visiting the forest. “We want to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable visit while always remaining aware of the current situation outdoors and the potential for wildfire,” said Evans.

For the complete story, CLICK HERE. (Courtesy Yucaipa/Calimesa News Mirror)

RV Buddies says:

• Clean up after your dog and keep him on a leash unless it's an off-leash area
• Be "Bear-Aware"
• Respect your campground neighbors
• Leave your campsite cleaner than when you arrived
• Tread lightly so many generations to come can enjoy RVing too

Restoring, repairing or upgrading an RV is something most of the 8.2 million RV-owning households have either done, wanted to do, or dreamed about doing over the course of their RV ownership.

RV Buddies wanted to show them how we’d do it - in a way that maintains the integrity of a coach’s original design but updates it to supply the owner with the modern amenities that he or she wants.  We decided the best way to go about it was to find ourselves a major fixer-upper and give it a stem-to-stern restoration.

This project would also give us a good opportunity to highlight a variety of aftermarket products and services that are offered to the RV consumer by some excellent companies and to test them out and give them a thorough review.

We put a lot of thought into what would be the perfect coach for our purposes – one that had been around for a while and had established itself as a true classic, a coach that had stood the test of time.  And something that was going to be fun for us to work on!

After careful consideration we decided to go with a GMC, a true classic with unique design, detailing and engineering features.  Considered to be ahead of its time, GMC built 12,921 models from 1973 to 1978 before deciding to discontinue producing luxury motorhomes to focus on their truck operations. Since then, the GMCs have developed a reputation as being one of the most restorable and rebuildable of the vintage motorhomes. Many formerly abandoned GMCs have been successfully brought back to life because of their durable construction.  It was the perfect vehicle for our purposes.  Estimates suggested that at least 8,000 to 9,000 vehicles from the original production were still in running condition.  All we needed was one.

GMC built the bodies and, in most cases, the interiors in-house, and designed the chassis and drivetrain to create a motorhome enclosure that could serve a range of purposes. Empty shells were supplied to other RV manufacturers for upfitting the interiors and also to specialty manufacturers for a range of custom purposes ranging from mail delivery and mobile training facilities to people movers and ambulances. They came in two lengths: 23 and 26 feet.  With a wide variety of possibilities out there, we weren’t sure what GMC variation with which we'd begin.

We were certain, though, that we were going to approach our project with the idea that we wanted to remain faithful to GMC’s original ideal. So we developed a plan to try and accomplish that - while improving the systems, increasing the coach’s reliability, and adding a few fun surprises of our own.

After a lengthy search, RV Buddies found a very used 1977 GMC 26’ Royale.  It was sitting in one spot in a backyard in Pasadena, California under a tree in mulch-like soil for at least 10 years. While sitting there, it had actually sunk into the ground half way up its wheels.  We had to pull it out with a tow truck just to get a look at it!  We were ecstatic to discover that a 35 year-old chassis that had been sitting in the ground for a third of its life remained rust free!  The entire floor structure was rock solid – without rot – without rust – simply unbelievable.  It was a GMC Transmode with rear bath and Coachmen had built out the interior.  The coach had 35,000 original miles on it.  It was perfect.  We had found our  "Project RV"!

Over the next nine months, RV Buddies will film and report on our Project RV through four phases – demolition, chassis and drive train, interior, and exterior body and paint.  We hope you enjoy following along as we restore and rebuild this classic coach!

Most people have a bucket list, a list of goals to achieve, sites to see, and things to do in a lifetime. But for those who are dedicated to life on the road, creating such a list can be daunting; there are so many sites to see in the United States, an RVer's bucket list has the potential of becoming endless. To help those suffering from bucket list block, Excel Distributors, the online purveyor of luxury RV bedding, published Adventure Calls: 117 Things to Add to Your Bucket List, a checklist of the United States' must-see locales from Maine to New Mexico, Alabama to Alaska.

Adventure Calls lists the 117 top scenic destinations and pit-stop-worthy landmarks in the United States, along with stunning images and helpful tips on nearby RV-friendly campgrounds and resorts. "RV travel is one of the best ways to see this beautiful country we live in," says Scott Oster, General Manager of Excel Distributors. "Each of the 117 items on the bucket list is either one of our favorite places to travel which we wanted to share, or something that lingers on our bucket lists."

Covering every region in America, there are a multitude of locations for RV "road warriors" to check off. Some, such as watching a sunset over the Grand Canyon, seem like obvious destinations, even for people who do not travel by RV. Others, though, focus on the attractions of smaller, road-side stops that are only available by car. "Our favorite RV-only destination is number 60: 'hang your shoes on the shoe tree off US 50 in Nevada.' It's a bucket list item completely unique to road trips, and provides a little mystery. Where is this shoe tree? Who started it? Why is it popular?" explains Oster.

Excel's bucket list is by no means comprehensive. "We didn't want this to be the ultimate, end-all bucket list for RVers," says Oster. "This is just something to inspire travelers, or places they can add to their own bucket lists." Adventure Calls concludes by imploring RVers to continue traveling even after all 117 items have been crossed off – and to start a new bucket list."

This is a great bucket list. To see it, CLICK HERE.

Winnebago Industries announced its Circle of Excellence dealerships for 2010. Winnebago Industries established the industry’s first dealer excellence program in 1986 in order to recognize select dealers for excellence in customer satisfaction. This year, 109 dealers were honored with the Circle of Excellence award in recognition of their excellence in customer satisfaction as it relates to the customers’ sales and service experience with the dealer.

“Winnebago Industries is pleased to recognize 109 outstanding dealers with this year’s Circle of Excellence award,” said Winnebago Industries Vice President of Sales and Marketing Roger Martin. “Dealerships earning this award have proven their commitment to providing customers with a total RV experience – knowledgeable sales personnel, qualified service technicians and quality warranty and aftermarket service support. For RVers, that attention to detail and care is important and is key to establishing the highest levels of customer satisfaction.” Circle of Excellence scoring is determined by rating dealers in four categories:

• A Purchase and Delivery Satisfaction Study which is direct customer feedback after the purchase of a motor home;

• A Customer Satisfaction Study which surveys customers six months after their purchase;

• A Sales and Marketing Assessment that evaluates a dealership’s sales, market share, stocking levels and participation in product training and the Winnebago Itasca Travelers Club (WIT); and

• A Service Parts Assessment that evaluates a dealership’s warranty/parts inventory, service training and certified technicians, and traveling customer care. Dealerships earning the coveted Circle of Excellence status receive an award featuring three concentric circles that symbolize the interconnected relationship between the customer, dealer and Winnebago Industries. Since its inception 25 years ago, four dealerships have achieved Circle of Excellence status each year the award has been presented. They are: (the Winnebago Industries’ brand the dealership represents is listed in parenthesis.)

• Altman’s Winnebago, Carson, California (Winnebago)

• Lazy Days, Seffner, Florida (Winnebago/Itasca)

• McClain’s RV Superstore OKC West, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (Winnebago/Itasca)

• PleasureLand, Inc., St. Cloud, Minnesota (Winnebago/Itasca)

Following is the complete list of the 2010 Circle of Excellence award winners, including 10 first-time award winners (indicated with an “*”).

ALASKA Great Alaskan Holidays, Inc., Anchorage (Winnebago/Itasca)
ARIZONA Affinity RV Service, Sales & Rentals, Prescott (Winnebago) La Mesa RV Center, Inc., Mesa (Winnebago/Itasca) La Mesa RV Center, Inc., Tucson (Winnebago/Itasca)
CALIFORNIA Altman’s Winnebago, Carson, California (Winnebago) Altman's Winnebago, Colton (Winnebago) La Mesa RV Center, Inc., San Diego (Winnebago/Itasca) Pan Pacific RV Centers, Inc., French Camp (Winnebago) Pan Pacific RV Centers, Inc., Roseville (Winnebago)* R. E. Barber Recreation Vehicles, Inc., Ventura (Winnebago) Stier’s RV Center, LLC, Bakersfield (Winnebago)* Village RV, Roseville (Itasca)
COLORADO Camping World RV SuperCenter, Fountain (Winnebago)
CONNECTICUT Crowley RV Center, Bristol (Winnebago)
DELAWARE Parkview Auto & Trailer Sales, Inc., Smyrna (Winnebago)
FLORIDA Camping World RV Sales, Midway (Itasca) Carpenter's Campers, Inc., Pensacola (Winnebago) Harberson RV - Pasco, LLC, Holiday (Winnebago/Itasca) Lazy Days, Seffner, Florida (Winnebago/Itasca) R.V. World of Nokomis, Inc., Nokomis (Winnebago) Suncoast RV, Inc., Cocoa (Winnebago/Itasca) Suncoast RV, Inc., Jacksonville (Winnebago/Itasca) Suncoast RV, Inc., Ocala (Winnebago/Itasca) Suncoast RV, Inc., Winter Garden (Winnebago)
GEORGIA Suncoast RV, Inc., Lake Park (Winnebago)
IDAHO Camping World RV Sales, Meridian (Winnebago)
ILLINOIS Barrington Motor Sales, Bartlett (Itasca) Camping World RV Sales, Island Lake (Winnebago) J & J Camper Sales, Inc., East Moline (Winnebago) Winnebago Motor Homes & Trailer Sales, Inc., Rockford (Winnebago/Itasca)
INDIANA Camp-Land, Inc., Burns Harbor (Winnebago)
IOWA Harrison RV, Inc., Jefferson (Winnebago) Lichtsinn Motors, Inc., Forest City (Winnebago/Itasca) US Adventure RV, Davenport (Winnebago/Itasca)
KANSAS Four Seasons RV Acres, Inc., Abilene (Winnebago) Olathe Ford R.V. Ctr., Gardner (Itasca)
LOUISIANA Miller's RV Center, Baton Rouge (Winnebago) Stevens RV Center, Inc., Lafayette (Winnebago)
MARYLAND Beckley's Camping Center, Thurmont (Winnebago)
MICHIGAN General RV Center, Inc., Birch Run (Winnebago) General RV Center, Inc., Mt. Clemens (Winnebago/Itasca) General RV Center, Inc., Wayland (Winnebago/Itasca) General RV Center, Inc., Wixom (Winnebago/Itasca)
MINNESOTA Bullyan Trailer Sales, Inc., Duluth (Winnebago) Pleasureland RV Center – North Metro, Ramsey (Winnebago) Pleasureland, Inc., St. Cloud, Minnesota (Winnebago/Itasca)
MISSISSIPPI Johnny Bishop, Inc., Columbus (Winnebago) Reliable RV Sales, Biloxi (Winnebago)
MISSOURI Trailside Campers RV Sales, Inc., Grain Valley (Winnebago)
NEBRASKA Leach Camper Sales of Lincoln, Inc., Lincoln (Itasca)
NEVADA Findlay RV, Las Vegas (Winnebago) Michael Hohl RV Center, Carson City (Winnebago)
NEW HAMPSHIRE Camping World RV Sales, Chichester (Itasca)* Hill's RVs, Center Conway (Winnebago)
NEW JERSEY Cedar Ridge RV Center, Branchville (Winnebago) Colonial Itasca, Lakewood (Itasca) White Horse RV Center, Williamstown (Winnebago)
NEW MEXICO Rocky Mountain RV World, Inc., Albuquerque (Winnebago) Sunland RV, Las Cruces (Winnebago)
NEW YORK Alpin Haus RV, Amsterdam (Winnebago) Meyer's RV Centers, LLC, Syracuse (Itasca)
NORTH CAROLINA Bill Plemmons RV World, Rural Hall (Winnebago) Bill Plemmons RV World, Raleigh (Winnebago) Tom Johnson Camping Center Charlotte, Inc., Concord (Winnebago) Tom Johnson Camping Center, Inc., Marion (Winnebago)
OHIO Colerain Trailer Center, Inc., Cincinnati (Winnebago) Dave Arbogast RV and Boat Depot, Troy (Winnebago)* General RV Center, Inc., North Canton (Winnebago/Itasca)* Lewis Auto Sales, Inc., Dayton (Itasca) Shafer Truck and RV Sales, LLC, Delta (Itasca) Town and Country RV Center, Inc., Clyde (Winnebago)
OKLAHOMA Dean’s RV Superstore, Inc., Tulsa (Winnebago) McClain’s RV Superstore OKC West, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (Winnebago/Itasca)
OREGON All Seasons RV & Marine, Bend (Winnebago) Guaranty RV Centers, Junction City (Itasca) Olinger Travel Homes, Portland (Winnebago/Itasca) The RV Corral, Inc., Eugene (Winnebago) Triple A RV Center, Inc., Medford (Winnebago)
PENNSYLVANIA Car Care & RV Center, North East (Winnebago)* Harold’s RV Center, Inc., Bath (Itasca) Joe's Marine, Inc., Sayre (Winnebago) Media Camping Center, Inc., Fairless Hills (Winnebago) Tom Schaeffer's Camping & Travel Center, Inc., Shoemakersville (Winnebago)
RHODE ISLAND Arlington R.V. Supercenter, Inc., East Greenwich (Winnebago) Flagg RV Rhode Island, North Smithfield (Itasca)
SOUTH CAROLINA Camper Country, Myrtle Beach (Winnebago)
SOUTH DAKOTA Spader Camper Center, Sioux Falls (Winnebago)
TENNESSEE Cullum & Maxey Camping Center, Inc., Nashville (Winnebago)
TEXAS Billy Sims Trailer Town – Lubbock, Lubbock (Winnebago) Crestview RV Center, Buda (Winnebago/Itasca) Crestview RV Georgetown, Georgetown (Itasca)* Jack Sisemore Traveland, Amarillo (Winnebago) McClain's RV Superstore N. Dallas, Inc., Lake Dallas (Winnebago) Shady Pines RV Center, Inc., Texarkana (Winnebago)
UTAH Motor Sportsland, Inc., Salt Lake City (Winnebago)
VIRGINIA Reines R.V. Center, Inc., Manassas (Winnebago) Snyder’s RV, Virginia Beach (Winnebago)
WASHINGTON Poulsbo RV, Inc., Kent (Winnebago) R 'N' R RV Center, Liberty Lake (Winnebago/Itasca) Roy Robinson Chevrolet-Subaru & Motorhomes, Marysville (Winnebago/Itasca) Russ Dean Family RV, Pasco (Winnebago)
WISCONSIN Horn’s Sales & Service, Inc., Sheboygan (Itasca) King’s Campers, Wausau (Winnebago)
CANADA BRITISH COLUMBIA Fraserway RV Limited Partnership, Abbotsford, BC* Okanagan Travel Land, Summerland, BC
ONTARIO Forest City Motor Homes, Ltd., Thorndale (Itasca) Sicard Holiday Campers, Ltd., Smithville (Winnebago)
QUEBEC VR St-Cyr Ltee, St-Mathieu de Beloeil (Winnebago)* V.R. Daniel Emond, St-Nicolas (Itasca)*

Monaco's stated goal is to “build homes on wheels that are innovative, dependable and competitively priced - while offering a lifestyle for customers that exceeds their dreams.”  With the production of the 2011 Monaco Cayman 40 PBQ they have surely accomplished that goal.

At first glance you can't help but notice that the completely redesigned 2011 Monaco Caymen 40 PBQ is dripping with curb appeal. The lustrous new full-body paint is perfectly applied and looking at it was like looking into a 40-foot long mirror.  While we were preparing for our shoot, several people walked by and stopped in their tracks to either admire the paint job or themselves – we’re not sure which – but either way their actions spoke to the quality of the paint job and the fresh look Monaco has given the Cayman!

Underneath the beautiful exterior of the 2011 Monaco Cayman 40 PBQ is a Cummins ISC 360 horsepower diesel engine that powers along the new Roadmaster RR8R chassis.  Eight air bags work in conjunction with eight gas-charged shock absorbers to prevent road trauma from ever reaching the coach. Ride height sensors continually adjust the air pressure at each axle to maintain a level ride and eliminate nose diving, weight transfer and floating on curved roads.

Stepping aboard, the first thing you notice is the attractive, residential styling and spacious feel throughout the coach. Immediately our eyes were drawn to the stunning, matte finish full ceramic tile floor, which is standard on all four floor plans.  Monaco’s choice of tile was inspired.  It’s beautiful, yet practical for every-day RVing. Upscale yet easy to clean, and in between cleanings you won't notice every little piece of dirt.

The dashboards of all Monaco products are always nice – but the Cayman in particular is top-notch. The console to the left of the driver has all the necessary controls as well as a convenient cup holder. The console curves up into the dash like a well-crafted luxury car showing off a perfectly designed instrument cluster.  The center console features an LCD back up monitor with side cameras, radio and a wooden drawer at the bottom for storage.

The first of three HDTVs - a 26" Flatscreen LCD - is located in the overhead of the cab area. It's perfect for viewing when parked and you can't open the slides.

Moving back into the living area, the 40 PBQ features opposing leather sofas – one a 90" sofa bed and the other a 65" sofa. There is practical storage above both sofas overhead – but not so large that you might hit your head on a cabinet. Additionally, the cabinet size does not take away from the spacious living area.

While we were discussing our camera shots, we took advantage of the sofas’ comfort. This can be a mistake as you can fall asleep very easily on these comfy couches – especially after putting some miles on your feet at an RV show!  Nevertheless, we highly recommend them!

Aft of the main living area are the kitchen and dinette. The kitchen is really nicely laid out and features gorgeous solid surface counter tops with removable covers for the range and sink.  The range is a high-output, two-sealed burner cooktop and above it is a combination stainless steel convection/microwave oven. This is a full size residential unit with range fan and light built in.  The entire kitchen is framed by Newport cherry raised-panel cabinetry with doors that have hidden hinges.

Two of the kitchen’s additional features really stood out to us. From a décor standpoint, the backsplash behind the range features a beautiful pattern of hand-laid tiles. This breaks up the solid surface color and is a very elegant look. On a more practical note, to the left of the range is a short Corian strip that has been designed to catch any spills and prevent them from finding their way onto the leather sofa. It's clear that the designer of this kitchen meant for it to be used and enjoyed.

The kitchen also comes with a 12 cubic-foot two-way four-door refrigerator with ice maker. (A residential refrigerator option is available if you plan to full-time.)

Opposite the kitchen is a dinette that seats four. As an option, it can be upgraded to the ever-popular freestanding table with computer workstation/buffet that can seat two or four. This can be very nice if you telecommute with your laptop PC.

On the aft bulkhead, beside the dinette, is a 40” LCD HDTV wired with a surround sound home theater system.  The unit fits nicely into an AV cabinet with storage above and below the TV.

The walk-through bath has a large one-piece molded fiberglass shower with curved doors and skylight, and very upscale plumbing fixtures. The shower nozzle can slide up and down a pole to accommodate a person of any height.

The lavatory next to the shower features a solid surface countertop, under-mounted flush sink and the same hand-laid tile backsplash as in the kitchen.

Across from the lavatory and shower is a private toilet compartment. It features a ceramic toilet with sprayer and another sink with the same high-end tile treatment, plumbing fixtures and countertop.

Typically, the aft bedroom is an after-thought – pun intended. Not in this case. This bedroom, or luxury suite as it could be called, impressed both cast and crew. The fabrics and pillows are plush and very upscale without being over-stated. Of particular note is the padded headboard, which is stunning to look at, yet practical for propping up to read a book or watch TV. And on those nights when you don't want air conditioning but just a bit of a breeze – there's a ceiling fan to accommodate your whim.

Speaking of watching TV, the third HDTV – a 26” LCD model - is across from the bed atop a nice chest of drawers.

The back wall features a mirrored wardrobe and closet for an optional stackable washer/dryer. The doors are thoughtfully designed with louvers at the top and bottom, which create a chimney effect and keep the space humidity-free when in use.

RV Buddies was duly impressed with the Monaco Cayman 40 PBQ.  We also liked the full-wall slide 36 PFT model for its living area and 40" HDTV. There’s another 40' model with bunk beds if you travel with children.

Many options are available to personalize your coach including an outdoor entertainment center with, yes, a fourth HDTV - a 40" LCD - to keep you entertained while barbequing.

If you opt for the residential refrigerator, an optional 10Kw generator is available, but only two house batteries are standard with no mention of additional batteries or extra inverter power.  Make sure you ask about that.

And don't forget to personalize your coach after you take delivery. Our first suggestions would be to install automatic fire control systems and one solar panel per house battery. (That's a good rule of thumb on average.) From there, enjoy the road. The 2011 Cayman is designed to do just that!

A resolution claiming June as Recreational Vehicle and Camping Month was recently signed by Governor Charlie Crist and the Cabinet of the State of Florida.  The proclamation is in conjunction with the national RV Centennial Celebration taking place in Elkhart, Indiana and was initiated by both the Florida RV Trade Association and the Florida Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds.

"It was great to be able to speak to the Florida Cabinet and thank them for the resolution," said FRVTA Executive Director Lance Wilson.  "We thought the resolution was a great way to kick off our promotion of the 100 year anniversary of the industry."  FRVTA will have displays at the three interstate Welcome Centers the week of June 7th to correspond with the national celebration in Elkhart, IN. The Tin Can Tourists will have "antique" RVs on display and there will be free drinks and popcorn for all travelers.

The resolution reads:

WHEREAS, the recreation vehicle industry is celebrating 100 years of American enjoyment of recreation vehicles, and

WHEREAS, 1 in 12 American homes own a recreation vehicle, and

WHEREAS, recreational vehicles allow families to build stronger relationships and explore the great outdoors, and

WHEREAS, travel in an recreational vehicle offers freedom, comfort and flexibility to see all of the United States, from historic landmarks to national and state parks, and

WHEREAS, Florida ranks third in the number of recreational vehicles shipments and is home to the largest recreational vehicle show in the nation,  the Florida RV SuperShow in Tampa, and

WHEREAS, the State of Florida has more than 900 licensed recreational vehicle parks and campgrounds, with more than 120,000 licensed recreational vehicle sites, and

WHEREAS, the State of Florida constantly ranks as the nation's best and most popular recreational vehicle and camping destination, and

WHEREAS, more than 5 million people camp in Florida each year, generating more than $5 billion for the state's economy, and

WHEREAS, 20 percent of all auto visitors to Florida either camp or travel in a recreational vehicle, and

WHEREAS, the 100th Anniversary of the introduction of the RV into the American marketplace will be celebrated June 7, 2010 at the RV/MH Hall of Fame in Elkhart, Indiana,

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Governor and Cabinet of the State of Florida do hereby proclaim June, 2010 as

RECREATIONAL VEHICLE AND CAMPING MONTH

In the State of Florida and encourage Floridians and visitors to take advantage of our great State's array of sun, surf, soft breezes and fresh air where the temperate climate allows for year-round camping and endless outdoor activities.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF the Governor and Cabinet of the State of Florida have hereunto subscribed their names and have caused the Official Seal of the State of Florida to be hereunto affixed in the City of Tallahassee this 11th day of May, 2010.

Under a new multi-year agreement, Navistar Engine Group will supply its advanced V8 turbo diesel engine to Tiffin Motorhomes. Beginning in June, MaxxForce 7 engines, manufactured in Huntsville, Alabama, will power Tiffin's new Allegro Breeze RV, manufactured in Red Bay, Alabama.

"We're always looking for new ways to offer more value to our customers, and we've done it again with this new high-end, smaller coach," said Bob Tiffin, CEO of family-owned Tiffin. "The Allegro Breeze is wonderfully maneuverable, easy to park and fun to drive thanks to one of the most powerful, durable and fuel-efficient engines on the market."

The V8 diesel pushers will be fully compliant with applicable EPA emissions standards. Tiffin will use 6.4-liter MaxxForce 7 engines rated at 215 horsepower and 560 lb.-ft. torque.

"MaxxForce engines fit perfectly with Tiffin's reputation of providing high value and low cost of ownership, while introducing innovative products," said Eric Tech, president, Navistar Engine Group. "We're proud to add another industry leader of U.S.-built motorhomes to our list of partners."

This past November, a concept model Allegro Breeze RV was introduced to dealers and news media at the annual Recreational Vehicle Industry Association's 47th Annual National RV Trade Show in Louisville, Kentucky, and was awarded "Best in Show". At 28 feet, the Allegro Breeze RV is 17 feet shorter than Tiffin's top-of-the-line Zephyr RV, but only 9.5 feet longer than a typical full-size SUV. The Allegro Breeze GVWR is 21,500 lbs. The Allegro Breeze RV will begin appearing at Tiffin's network of dealerships in the U.S. and Canada in June 2010. Pricing has not yet been announced.

The MaxxForce 7 will be rear-mounted on Tiffin's own PowerGlide chassis. Introduced in 2008, the PowerGlide chassis quickly became a popular option, offering one-stop service for Tiffin owners at dealerships and the Tiffin service facility. The PowerGlide chassis for the Allegro Breeze RV is newly designed on a coach-ready platform.

Tiffin Motorhomes received one of three prestigious Quality Circle Awards presented by the Recreational Vehicle Dealers Association to Class A motorhome manufacturers this year for design, reliability, quality, value and competitive price. For additional information about Tiffin products and services, visit www.tiffinmotorhomes.com.

Navistar Engine Group, an operating unit of Navistar Inc., produces diesel engines for consumer and commercial automotive and industrial markets around the world. Its global MaxxForce brand line of engines offers models for a wide range of applications and for all global emissions standards. For more information CLICK HERE.

To read all about the Allegro Breeze CLICK HERE.

With the summer travel season quickly approaching, we at RV Buddies understand the desire to travel with as many of the comforts of home as you can.  In fact, that’s how the entire industry got started and why there are so many companies that manufacture a wide variety of RVs – enabling you to sleep comfortably, eat well, watch a little TV and get away from a variety of nature’s buzzing and biting creatures when you need to.

From Comfort Line Products is a product that promises to keep you in comfort while you’re out on the road.  It’s the Spa 2 Go, an inflatable and portable whirlpool spa, which is billed as “a soothing spa experience anywhere, anytime.”  Here at RV Buddies we’re all about soothing experiences!

The Spa 2 Go spa is a self-inflating device that uses its own motor.  It’s simple and easy to inflate.  Once the spa is fully inflated, all you need to do is fill it with water and plug it in. The plug goes into any standard 110v outlet.  It comes with a locking cover, built in filtration system, digital temperature control and is equipped with a GFCI unit for safety.

Taking the Spa 2 Go out on the road with you is very convenient.  It’s not heavy and it is easy to transport, so you can take it anywhere.

Once you’ve arrived and settled in, fill the Spa 2 Go with water, plug it in and you’re ready to start enjoying the exclusive micro air-jet system that promises “relaxing massaging action” in a full 250 gallon capacity that seats four.

Sounds great to us!  Of course you’re going to need to be somewhere where you have access to 250 gallons of water, so you’ll have to plan ahead.

Specifications

• Accommodates 4 adults
• Outer Diameter 82" (w/ powerpak, 98")
• Inner Diameter 58"
• 127 Micro-Air Jets
• Height 28"
• Gallons 250
• Insulair Thermal Cover Included
• 1.3 HP Turbo Wave Massage System
• Dual Filtration System
• Thermostatically Controlled Heater
• 110V Ground Fault Circuit Protector

A – Power Pack
B – Spa Line With Outer Cover
C – Top Spa Cover
D – Inflatable Bladder Cover
E – Spa Inflator Hose

The Rally advertises itself as the biggest and best RV rally of the year.  Sponsored by the Good Sam Club, Coast to Coast Resorts, Camping World President’s Club, Trailer Life and Motorhome magazines and Woodall’s Publications, the annual gathering welcomes RVers of all ages, shapes and sizes.  Whether you’re an experienced RVer, a beginner just getting your feet wet, or anyone who just wants to find out more about the RV lifestyle, The Rally has something for you.  Something really fun.  We know – we’ve been there.

Like a lot of the big RV shows, The Rally features hundreds of dealers and manufacturers displaying their latest models and a multitude of supplier exhibits that showcase thousands of RV-related services and products.  It’s a chance to talk to manufacturer and dealer representatives directly and a great opportunity to find terrific bargains on RVs and RV products that offer special Rally prices.

The Rally is a lot more than just a big RV show.  It’s a complete event that includes over 150 informative seminars hosted by RV industry experts that cover a wide range of RV-related topics.  There’s also great evening and daytime entertainment at every Rally and this year’s entertainment headliner is cultural icon Bob Newhart.  Other performers this year include country music star Tanya Tucker and Neil Diamond tribute band Super Diamond.

But the fun keeps coming!  There’s the annual Rally Dog Show which enters its seventh year with a variety of fun contests including “Doggy Musical Chairs,” “Silliest Pet Trick,” Find the Treat,” “Best Howl” and the crowd favorite “Dog-Owner Look-Alike” contest!

Let’s say you like dogs but you don’t have one – The Rally runs a pet adoption program every year.  However we must warn you – if you go just to take a look, you could very well end up coming home with a new family member.  Last year there were dozens of irresistible furry friends that found plenty of new homes!

Additionally there’s an annual golf tournament, a community service event, youth programs, area tours, a talent show and even more!  It’s an absolutely amazing event and you really should go to one so you can see what all the buzz is about.

RV Buddies went to last year’s Rally in Albuquerque and we’re glad we did.  There was so much to do and see and experience and we had a lot of fun.  We enjoyed seeing the new coaches and the seminars and the dog show and everything The Rally had to offer.  But the best part wasn’t any of those things.  The best part about The Rally is the people.  They come from all across the United States and Canada and from many other countries around the world and descend upon The Rally in such a large group that the organizers describe the event as bringing a “city to a city.”  Literally thousands of people show up with their RVs to form the “Biggest” part of The Rally.  And the people make it the “Best” part of The Rally.   That's where the description “The Biggest and the Best Rally” comes from.  EVERYONE we met there was nice and they were there to have a good time.  The camaraderie with fellow RV enthusiasts on a scale that big is the best we’ve ever seen anywhere. Any place.  Any time.

This year, the Rally is in Louisville, Kentucky and we think you should take a look at going.  Louisville is a terrific city bursting with heartland charm and southern hospitality.  It’s home to the nation’s largest urban forest, and the city has been named one of the top ten "Safest and Culturally Most Fascinating" cities in the country.  Safe is always good when considering an RV trip.  While you’re there take one of the area tours if you can – they are a fun, well-organized way to see the local points of interest with a bunch of strangers that quickly become your friends.  That’s the great thing about The Rally - it’s different every year because it’s in a different place every year.  Last year there was an amazing hot air balloon show because it was in Albuquerque, a place known for its hot air ballooning.  This year they’ve got some special Kentucky experiences for everyone who comes to visit.

But don’t take our word for it.  Take a look for yourself.  We’ve put together a piece from the video we shot at last year’s Rally in Albuquerque so you can get an idea of what went on last year and what to expect this year.

If you like what you see, CLICK HERE for complete information on this year’s event.  There’s still plenty of time to plan your trip to “The Greatest RV Rally in the World.”

Tell them RV Buddies sent you!

Centennial Charlie, the popular Official Ambassador of the 2010 RV Centennial, recently wrapped up a cross-country tour that took him to RV plants, consumer shows and RV dealerships in 19 states across the country. But Centennial Charlie’s time in the spotlight is not over, as he will next appear as the star of an amusing video co-starring the RV industry employees, consumers, and friends he met on his goodwill tour. The video will be shown during the one-hour program that is a centerpiece of the RV Centennial Celebration, set for June 7 at the RV/MH Hall of Fame and Museum in Elkhart.

Centennial Charlie, who is inspired by the bear in Go RVing's 2010 "Ambassadors of Affordability" ad campaign, proved to be very busy at consumer RV shows this spring, according to show promoters. Dianne Seymour of Affinity Group said, "Centennial Charlie visited the Colorado RV, Sports, and Boat Show in March. He went white water rafting, rode a Boss Hoss motorcycle, enjoyed fishing, boating, four wheeling, camping and sightseeing.  He had a great visit in Colorado and we were honored to have him at our show."

Charlie was also very busy during his visits to RV manufacturers, suppliers, and dealers this spring. "Charlie had a great time visiting Winnebago Industries’ plant in Forest City," said Sheila Davis, Winnebago's public relations manager. "He helped build a motorhome from start to finish, welding the chassis, putting the floor in, helping install a roof, lowering a slideout room into place, and sewing seat covers!  Charlie also attended the Forest City community celebration, where he was very popular with local pre-school kids who read bear stories with him."

While visiting Little Dealer, Little Prices in Phoenix this April, Charlie pitched in around the dealership, working as a salesperson, an RV technician, and a parts specialist. "He even operated a forklift!" said owner Debbie Brunoforte. She added, "Although the customers thought he was cute, I heard some salespeople were miffed when he ate all the doughnuts before the sales meeting even started."

Charlie spent a few days visiting members of Congress in the nation's capital, and proved to be popular on both sides of the aisle.

"Centennial Charlie spent a whirlwind week meeting with key members of Congress and learning the 'bear' essentials of how things get done inside the beltway," said RVIA Vice President of Government Affairs Dianne Farrell. "In addition to his largely ceremonial role as Ambassador for the RV Centennial, Charlie was quite an effective lobbyist promoting House and Senate Resolutions designating June 2010 as RV Centennial Celebration month."

Farrell reported that Centennial Charlie met with Minority Leader Boehner (R-OH) and Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-OR), as well as Representatives from the Indiana delegation including Joe Donnelly (D), Dan Burton (R), and Mike Pence (R).