Thor Motorized Services Director, Janae’ Kurtz, announced in December 2009 a new program for retail owners called “Concierge Connection.”  The program was developed to establish a personal relationship with new retail owners of Damon Motorcoach and Four Winds International motorhomes.  With this program now in full swing, brand new owners will be contacted by their personal service advocate.

Mr. Stony Thornburg will head-up the new personal service advocate program.  When a dealer submits the retail sold registration for a new motorhome, Mr. Thornburg will call the new customer to introduce himself and Thor Motorized Services.  The goal for the Concierge Connection is to provide a person at the factory who can provide helpful information or advice to new retail customers.

Stony has been in the RV industry for 17 years and has worked with suppliers and manufacturers in various positions.   “He has a wealth of knowledge in customer service, technical troubleshooting, and dealer and owner relations”, says Kurtz.  “Stony has been part of the customer service team for 9 years and is a natural fit as our Concierge.  Stony has not only the knowledge of this position, but he has the experience and training to make him successful.  As a Veteran of our armed forces he understands leadership and how to implement a successful game plan.  I couldn’t be happier with our choice for the job.”

“Working with customers is what I love to do.  Fostering new relationships and treating people with the utmost respect is what keeps me coming back to the office everyday.  After only five months I can tell we are making a difference”, said Thornburg.

EDITORS NOTE: Being gear-heads ourselves here at RV Buddies makes this news on the W20D very exciting to us. It's also wonderful to see additional supporting materials that support the reason for us naming the Four Winds Serrano built on the W20 platform as one of the best of show at Hershey earlier this year. Here is the low-down from their research:

Diesel Engine’s Torque and Quietness also Provide Great New Choice for Class A Motor Homes

The Workhorse 20D/22D front-engine diesel chassis with its MaxxForce 7 engine has taken a big leap in improving motor home fuel economy while providing outstanding torque for Class A motor homes along with the quietest V8 diesel engine you might ever drive.

Independent tests at Bosch Proving Grounds in South Bend, Ind., had this chassis-engine match-up achieving up to 13.2 mpg, an almost unheard of figure for a Class A motor home. The tests were conducted with a 32-foot Four Winds Serrano coach body and loaded to the maximum GVWR of 20,500 lbs. The Serrano has been drawing heavy consumer interest throughout 2009 and was named a “Best of Show” at the September Pennsylvania RV and Camping Show by RVbuddiesonline.com. The W20D chassis and MaxxForce 7 engine are both on display at the National RV Trade Show in Louisville this week along with the Serrano.

Proven, Reliable Engine

The latest version of the MaxxForce 7, V8 tuned for motor homes generates 230 horsepower and 620 lb.-ft. of torque. “This high volume, rugged mid-range diesel engine is the heart of many International medium duty trucks. Now it is making its mark in the RV industry,” said Tony Monda, Workhorse RV vice president of marketing. “Coupled with the six speed Allison transmission, our W20D and W22D front engine diesel platforms do not sacrifice power and performance in order to achieve better fuel economy.

“These platforms have incredible grade ability and pulling power. Our proprietary RV consumer research indicated that class A potential buyers still want power and performance — but they are also demanding better fuel economy and that is what the new W Series delivers. Our strategy is to continue to integrate MaxxForce engines into Workhorse products where applicable, creating synergies with Navistar along with true market differentiation.”

Quietest Diesel V8

Drivers will also immediately notice that MaxxForce 7 is quiet. The noise level measured at 68.9 dBA in a low idle test. A high-pressure common rail fuel system, piezo actuated fuel injectors and a block and head design with a single-piece nodular iron bedplate are among the features that contribute to reduced noise and vibrations, a key to the MaxxForce 7’s front-engine application.

Popular with RVers

Presently, the Serrano coach from Four Winds International exclusively uses the W20D for both its 31Z single slide out and 31V double slide out models. Four Winds Director of Marketing Jon Krider said dealerships with the product find that “They’re seeing consumers that traditionally look at diesel pushers and longer coaches. These customers are finding many features with the coach and chassis that they like, starting with things like storage and the whole aerodynamic look and contemporary feel of the coach. So instead of spending $200,000 to $300,000 for a bigger coach, they can get a lot of what they want at a much lower price.”

Regarding the W20D and Serrano matchup, Krider said, “retail customers comment on how quiet the cockpit is for having a diesel engine under right under their feet. We get a lot of comments about just how well the coach drives because of the 50 degree turning radius and being able turn a short coach around in a tight area. And we get many good comments about the overall stability of the coach moving down the road.”

High Performance Technology

The series sequential EVRT turbocharger provides exceptional response over a wide range of engine speeds for impressive acceleration, grade climbing, towing capability and high altitude performance. The turbo is tuned to improve fuel economy while also making the vehicle very responsive to the driver. The MaxxForce 7 also provides unaided cold-starting performance from -20° F within four seconds. Routine maintenance is economical, with oil changes every 10,000 miles.

Recently, RV Buddies shot a review of the Four Winds Serrano Class A coach. We were certainly impressed with this RV, and the folks at Four Winds seemed to like our article and video review as well. As you can see, they reprinted our review. It stands larger than life beside this very highly polished 2010 Serrano at the 47th National "for the trade only" RV Trade Show. (Click on the image for a larger view.) The two look very good together. While the Serrano is a great value, the review and video are still free. CLICK HERE to read the review, or on the image below to see the Video.

On November 10, 2009, Thor Industries announced that Wade Thompson had relinquished his duties as Chairman of the Board, President and CEO of the company due to illness.

On November 13, 2009, the Board of Directors announced that Mr. Thompson had passed away after a courageous and determined fight against cancer.

"As long as there's a Grand Canyon, there will be an RV industry," Mr. Thompson was fond of saying. And even though he has built RVs across the entire price spectrum including the legendary Airstream, Thompson remained grounded, in touch with his inner child and creative spirit as he throttled about in his Mini Cooper.

Wade Thompson lived life as a legend. And unlike so many other visionary artists, he did not need to die to find appreciation. As Thor continues, we mourn his loss while at the same time celebrating his contribution - to our community and the world at large.

Following is the press release issued by the company:

"Wade F. B. Thompson Co-Founder, Chairman, President and CEO Loses 14 Year Battle With Cancer.

The Board of Directors of Thor Industries, Inc. announced that its co-founder, chairman, president and CEO, Wade F. B. Thompson, died on November 13th, 2009 after a 14 year battle with five cancers. Mr. Thompson was 69 years old.

Mr. Thompson founded Thor in 1980 with Peter B. Orthwein, Thor vice-chairman, with the acquisition of Airstream, the renowned travel trailer builder. Thompson turned Airstream around from a $12 million annual loss immediately prior to purchase to a $1 million profit in its first year. Thor went public on January 11, 1984 and was listed on the New York Stock Exchange on August 29, 1986, six years to the day after its founding.

Wade Thompson always said that his major business legacy was not only helping build Thor into the leading manufacturer of recreation vehicles and buses, but Thor's record of never losing money which is believed to be unique in these two industries. Even during fiscal 2009, a year of world-wide recession and a depression in the RV industry, Thor made money.

Wade Thompson devoted his last decade to helping find a cure for cancer. He founded the Drive Against Prostate Cancer in 2000. The Drive, consisting of two Airstream mobile medical vehicles, has given over 101,000 free prostate cancer screenings to men, particularly the under-served and veterans. About 5% of the men have an abnormality and The Drive has saved about 5,000 lives due to early detection. He was a major contributor to Zero - The Project to End Prostate Cancer, the Prostate Cancer Foundation, Cancer Research Institute, and actively financed clinical trials for melanoma and colon cancer in Australia, New Zealand, and the United States.

Wade Thompson was also deeply dedicated to the arts, historic preservation and conservation. He was the founder and chairman of the Seventh Regiment Armory Conservancy whose mission is to restore and revitalize the historic Park Avenue Armory at 66th Street in Manhattan into a world class venue for the performing and visual arts. The Armory's 60,000 sq. ft., seven story high Drill Hall is named in his honor. He was a major supporter of Central Park Conservancy, the Municipal Art Society, and Mystic Seaport Museum. His other interests were tennis and collecting contemporary art.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 42 years, Angela, his children, Charles A. Y. Thompson and Amanda Jane Thompson Riegel, his daughter-in-law, Olya A.Y. Thompson, son-in-law Richard E. Riegel III, and six grandchildren."

Why did RV Buddies name the Serrano 31V one of our “Best of Show” at the PRVCA in Hershey this year?”  Because it offers style, storage, floor plans and diesel fuel economy at an affordable price - a great combination in a nicely sized package!

At first glance, the Serrano has a very unique front cap – smooth, curved and aerodynamic with its attractive one-piece windshield. But glancing around the sides of the coach reveals that the curving theme continues. Yes, the side walls arch at the top of the roof-line as well. This is one wind-cutting coach!

RV Buddies looked at the 31V, one of two available layouts. Both coaches are 8' wide. If you're used to driving a wide-body, driving the narrower Serrano should be a breeze. The 31V has two slides while the 31Z has one large slide.

The full-body paint on the slick fiberglass continues the polished theme of the exterior. The three available color schemes are attractive and stylish. The European bus-style rear view mirrors further set the front end design apart. There's no other way to describe them than "really cool".

Beyond all the normal storage compartments, look closely at the rear quarters of either model. There are two large doors that reveal what is aptly called "Mega" storage. Accessible from both sides of the coach, there is more than enough room for every camping need – think grills, bicycles and other large items.

Underneath the coach lies a solid foundation in the Workhorse W20D chassis. Key components include disc brakes with ABS, the MaxxForce 7 V-8 diesel with 620 lb ft of torque, an Allison transmission, 50 degree wheel cut, Bilstein shocks and 19.5" tires and wheels.

Supplying power is a standard 6000 watt Cummins-Onan diesel generator with 50 amp shore service. Also of note are the heated and enclosed holding tanks.

Given the good looks and quality mechanicals, is it possible for the interior to live up to expectations? Stepping inside is not disappointing.

Both floor plans provide an upscale vinyl flooring which makes for practical camping, while the living, cab and rear bedroom are carpeted. Hopefully whatever dirt gets tracked in will have fallen away before settling onto carpeting. Although the 31V is just shy of 33', the interior feels much larger.

Entering amidships, the spacious feel is amazing. With the shorter exterior height, 80" ceilings don't seem possible. By the way, they are padded vinyl with a ducted air conditioning system.

The interior is well appointed. The cabinetry carries the European curve theme throughout in a very tasteful manner. Fabrics and colors are muted and promise not to go out of style the moment next year's models are introduced. The wood is available in maple or optional cherry finishes.

The coach radiates fore and aft from a central kitchen – the hub of most family environments.  Counters are solid surface with a large sink and glass-covered two burner gas range. A convection/microwave resides above with range hood built in. A simple tile treatment breaks up the solid surface from the wall giving an upscale feeling. It is subtle and unexpected in a coach of this price range. The right section of the counter pulls out with its drawers and additional counter top being revealed. The Serrano has more counter space than many larger coaches. Making real meals in this RV should be both easy and enjoyable. Completing the kitchen is a full height pantry and double-door refrigerator.

Forward of the galley are an opposing sofa-bed and "U" shaped dinette – both in leather.  The arrangement is both functional and social.  Six full-sized adults can be seated for conversation and refreshments in this living area.

Up front, two very comfortable captain's chairs, in leather to match the sofa and dinette, face a simple and functional dashboard. RV dashes vary from flat surfaces that look assembled in a neighbor's garage to aircraft cockpits, which require training to operate. The Serrano is neither of those. It is a combination of simple curves, easy to read gauges and readily accessible switches. The center stack is also clean with optional rear camera monitor and a fully-featured RV radio. Then in front of the passenger is a pull-out computer tray for doing email or navigating as co-pilot. There are also plenty of air conditioning ducts.

At first glance, the dash lacks flash and appears really simple. After living with it, it is clear that this flows with the rest of the coach – form following function – like a fine car would provide.

With the Captains' seats turned around, they join the sofa and dinette area to create a very spacious living space. In the 31V, the standard HDTV is a 32" model in a cabinet across from the kitchen that is easily viewed by all at eye level. It is pre-wired for an optional satellite dish.

Moving toward the back past the kitchen there is a full size wardrobe on the driver's side. Opposite is an entry to the self-contained bath which is located on the passenger side.  The bath has ample counter space, a ceramic toilet and full-size shower with skylight for an open feeling as well as extra light. One very unique feature is included in the bathroom mirror. Part of the reflective surface is etched away at the top so that a light can be placed directly behind it. This makes for very even illumination while using the mirror. It's also an upscale touch you would not expect in a coach at this price range. (Typically two-way mirrors hide TVs while protecting them from moisture in the bathrooms of expensive custom coaches.)

Finally, at the rear of the Serrano is a private bedroom with a queen-size bed. The design makes it look like it floats on a platform. What the two step-ups also do, however, is create the space for the "Mega" exterior storage area underneath outside. A wardrobe is in either corner, and the back wall above the headboard is covered with a mirror. It features the same treatment as the bathroom mirror for a low light in the bedroom late at night. There are also individual reading lamps for both sides of the bed.

As mentioned earlier, options are few. Leather, full body paint and a diesel generator are standard making this a fully equipped coach to begin with. A few of the key options include: Sirius radio, power driver's seat, HD satellite dish, home theater system, outdoor entertainment system and a bedroom television.

At just under 33' in length and 8' wide, the Serrano 31V goes where larger coaches just can't go. At the same time, it offers style, storage and diesel at an affordable price. That's why RV Buddies named it one of the "Best of Show" coaches in Hershey this year.

RV Buddies Online names four RVs from the PRVCA show in Hershey, Pennsylvania "Best of Show".

With 59 manufacturers represented, there were many impressive RVs on display at the 41st annual PA RV & Camping Show. The event, which always creates a lot of expectation as people flock to see the new models, didn’t disappoint this year as a record crowd of 31,700 was on hand to check out the brand new 2010 models.

"The manufacturers delivered some exciting products for the 2010 model year," commented Host and Producer Mark Summers adding, "After walking the show and filming for nearly a week, several coaches simply stood out to us."

For the 2009 PRVCA show in Hershey, RV Buddies is proud to name the following "Best of Show":

(Click on images for larger view)

Winnebago VIA

Winnebago has delivered a great coach that will be a standard-setter for the next decade. It is for this generation what the View was for the last. It offers a sleek package and good mileage. On our test drive, the coach impressed with a stable, secure ride.

Four Winds Serrano

Four Winds is associated with value. The Serrano offers great styling, storage, floor plans and diesel at a great price. It's a great combination in a nicely sized package.

Winnebago Tour

This "Best of Show" is for the entire Tour line-up, as well as the sister-coach, the Itasca Ellipse. Winnebago re-invented their top-of-the-line Class A diesel pusher with some truly innovative layouts. They have even jumped into the fray with a 42' tag axle model.

JMS Galileo

The all-new Galileo is a 21' trailer. The custom-molded front cap is euro-aerodynamic. Inside, the fit, finish, materials and equipment are without compromise. If you are looking for an efficient-sized, high end towable, the Galileo should be on your short list.

Following the success of the PRVCA show, RV Buddies will continue to film next month at the California RV Show in Pomona, California, with plans to shoot at the Florida RV Super Show in January. After attending these major debut shows, RV Buddies plans to name their "RV(s) of the Year".

RV Buddies Online has returned from the PRVCA Hershey RV show with 16 segments filmed and ready for post production.

The show featured RVs from over 55 manufacturers including 2010 premiere models, along with a host of aftermarket products and accessories.

RV Buddies was able to get their first look at a number of the 2010 models and able to review many of them to bring back to their audience, including the Open Range Residential, Born Free 22 Rear Kitchen, Carriage Cameo, Winnebago VIA, Winnebago Tour, Four Winds Serrano, Tiffin RED, Keystone Fuzion, Forest River XLR, Newmar Canyon Star toy hauler, and the Galileo trailer.

Besides coach reviews, aftermarket products and accessories, a number of industry veterans were filmed, including "The RV Doctor," Gary Bunzer, and RV Adventures' John Holod.

Additionally RV Buddies shot several spots to feature the local flavor of the community – that flavor being chocolate.  “Robert and Elise had a lot of fun with those and may have gained a few pounds while filming them,” Summers said, referring to show co-hosts Robert Wittenberg and Elise Baughman’s tours of various local chocolate-themed attractions.

The PRVCA reported on their Facebook page that over 31,000 attended what they bill as “Americas Largest RV Show.” Local network news covering the show reported: "If the RV Industry is any indicator of the economy, the recession is over."

“I can believe it!” said Summers, “they were times when it was very crowded and it was hard for us to film a review due to the amount of people that were exploring the coaches.  In fact, one time we had to come back and finish a review later because a dealer was busy selling an RV to a happy customer.”

Summers was very pleased with the trip.  “It was a great success.  As was our first live blogcast.  We’ve received a lot of comments about how much people really enjoyed getting a live look at what was going on around the show.”

For those who missed it live, the blogcast can currently be found in the “News Bytes” section. Photos, reviews and other coverage of the PRVCA RV Show will begin appearing later this week and roll out over the next few months.

Photos: RVBuddiesOnline.com