Jayco Inc. named Crestview RV Center, Selma and Buda, Texas, the World’s Largest Jayco Dealer for 2004. This is the first year Crestview has attained the top volume position for Jayco – but the dealership has consistently ranked in the top ten for several years in a row. Mike Regan, general manager of Crestview, and his wife, Vickie, accepted the award during Jayco’s annual dealer incentive trip to Hawaii.

Crestview RV has been family owned and operated since 1963. It has developed into one of the largest and most complete recreation vehicle complex in Texas and surrounding states. Crestview RV was named RVDA number one dealer. For more information, visit www.crestviewrv.com.

New Guide Makes Visiting Texas State Parks a Snap

An expanded version of the Texas State Park Guide is now available that provides detailed information about more than 120 of the state’s natural and cultural treasures – from well-known landmarks such as Palo Duro Canyon to lesser-known jewels like Kickapoo Cavern.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s handsomely illustrated, 112-page guide is free and can be found at state historic sites, state parks and other TPWD sites, as well as other select outlets throughout Texas. The guide to more than 600,000 acres of public land also is available as a downloadable PDF file on the TPWD Web site. The electronic version is available in English and Spanish.

“We’ve improved the guide to make it as user-friendly as possible so folks can plan their next adventure more effectively,” said Walt Dabney, state parks director. “With the new park guide and annual Texas State Parks Pass, our customers now possess the keys to enjoy the state’s many natural and cultural wonders more efficiently and more economically.”

A centerfold map, one of the new additions to the revised guide, helps readers locate their favorite park or historic site at a glance. More and better maps are one significant improvement to the original Texas State Park Guide published in late 2003. Readers, too, can flip to the back-of-the-book Facilities & Activities Index grid to scan for information about such things as accommodations, ADA accessibility and limited access.

A more detailed Table of Contents makes it easier for outdoors enthusiasts and history buffs to find the best places in the Texas state park system to hold a family reunion, learn more about the state’s unique heritage and find the perfect place to camp, fish, hike or just relax under a shade tree.

The “Spotlight on Texas” chapters, for example, shine a light on the best ways to: “Experience Texas” through various park tours and programs; “Remember Texas” by discovering the landmarks that illuminate Texas history; “View Texas” amid the state’s top spots for enjoying stands of wildflowers, bats, birds, butterflies and other critters; and “Viva Texas,” or kick up your heels, by exploring the state’s rich Hispanic heritage. The new guide makes it easier than ever to focus upon the best state parks in which to hike, bike, swim, camp, fish and horseback ride. Did you know, for example, that at Huntsville and Lake Livingston state parks in East Texas, you can enjoy a hearty breakfast in the park before saddling up or unwind from a long day’s ride with a steak dinner? The “Saddle Up” feature, for example, points out parks catering to equestrians with miles of horseback riding trails, horse-friendly campgrounds and other facilities.

The booklet’s State Park Directory, which is organized by the state’s seven tourism regions, include vignettes about each park and historic site, as well as an address and telephone number. Symbols with each listing provide visual cues about the various amenities and activities at a particular site.

The Texas State Park Guide also spells out the different types of state park user fees and special park passes, as well as details about how to reserve campsites, group shelters and other facilities.

The publishing of 500,000 of the Texas State Park Guide was made possible through the sponsorship of Toyota and the Texas Parks & Wildlife Foundation. This is the second year the automaker has provided funding to help make the guide available free to the public. Toyota is also a major sponsor of Texas Parks and Wildlife Expo and the Texas Conservation Banquet , the Conservation License Plate program, state parks maps and on-site interpretive brochures and hunting and fishing license pocket holders. Visit http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/parkguide/

TengoInternet Expands Wi-Fi Footprint to Michigan

TengoInternet, oldest and largest wireless Internet service provider for the outdoor hospitality industry, today announced that the company has expanded service into Michigan. With the acquisition of a new customer -- Poncho’s Pond RV Park in Ludington, MI, TengoInternet now operates in 15 states across the United States.

“TengoInternet continues to expand our service area to meet the demands of the outdoor hospitality industry,” said Eric Stumberg, president and CEO of TengoInternet. “As RVers continue to demand wi-fi as an amenity, operators are relying on Tengo’s growing network, excellent service experience and flexible contracts to maximizing their return on amenity investment.”
For additional information, visit www.tengointernet.com.

Hamilton County Park District Brings Friend Into New Sector

Hamilton County Park District, Ohio, has partnered with Friend Communications Inc. This alliance marks the first time a municipal RV park and campground has committed to Friend’s real-time, online reservation services. Past alliance partners have included state and national associations for privately owned parks and campgrounds, as well as RV rental companies and wireless Internet providers.

“Our goal is simply to make our reservation process as easy as possible for our guests and to give them as many ways as possible to find us and stay at one of our parks,” said Bill Mowery, Hamilton County Park’s District recreation manager. “I believe that Friend Communications can help us do that.”

Friend has worked with Hamilton County Park District in efforts to prepare the first of its three campgrounds to provide visitors with online reservation capabilities. “Friend has been terrific to work with and has been very accommodating,” Mowery added. The system went live on March 14 and within five hours it received 10 reservations.

“We are excited to be entering into another sector of the outdoor hospitality industry,” said Deb Kohls, vice president of Friend. “Today‚s consumers demand online functionality and through this new relationship we have not only opened a new doorway for consumers to find Hamilton County Parks, but have also made it easier for them to do business with this municipality. We look forward to working with more municipal parks in helping them to further their online visibility and reservation capabilities.”

The Hamilton County Park District was established on July 17, 1930 and is located in southwest Ohio. The Park District has 19 parks and preserves with over 14,500 acres under management. More than 80% of its land represents natural habitat with the other 20% available for use with a variety of outdoor recreational activities. These activities include seven award-winning golf courses, four lakes with boat rental and fishing, three campgrounds, three banquet centers, lodges, picnic areas, nature centers, bike-hike trails, wet playgrounds and nature-related gift shops. The Hamilton County Park District also has an extensive outdoor education program with naturalists located at all of the major parks.

The Colorado Campground and Lodging Owners Association (CCLOA) has also partnered with Friend Communications Inc. The alliance will provide consumers around the world with online, realtime reservations for CCLOA campgrounds and RV parks.

“The more we thought about the advantages of having online reservations, and knowing that we frequently make hotel/airline reservations online, the more we realized we needed such a system. So we called Friend,” said Joan Skinner, CCLOA vice president.

The online presence extends the reach of campgrounds and RV parks to new groups of potential customers. “The most important benefit that we see with using Friend will be getting reservations from people who, otherwise, would not have known about our campground. This includes people who are visiting from out of the country and other tech-savvy people who just want an easy way to make reservations at midnight when they are Web surfing,” Skinner explained.

More information is available toll-free at 888-333-9383, ext. 223; on the Web at www.friendcommunications. com; or by e-mail at sales@friendcomm.net.

Full Pallet Program Announced by Webb Wheel Products

On April 1, 2005 customers of Webb Wheel’s Aftermarket Business Unit can order full pallets (20 pieces) of 13 of the most popular brake drums by using unique part numbers that identify the pallet quantity. The company has sent out a service bulletin to all their aftermarket customers identifying the new part numbers.

The Aftermarket Business Unit has been formed through the recent re-organization of Webb Wheel Products focusing on unique market segments. Additionally, increased capacity through manufacturing expansions and equipment upgrades has created dedicated manufacturing facilities to meet the increasing demands of the aftermarket. The full pallet program, which is specifically designed for this market segment, is a result of the company’s ability to focus on specific customer needs. Webb Wheel Products, Inc., headquartered in Cullman, Alabama, is a Marmon Highway Technologies company that manufactures hubs, brake drums, rotors and spoke wheels for medium and heavy-duty trucks, trailers and buses.

For more information about Webb Wheel Products, Inc. visit: www.webbwheel.com or call the company’s customer service line 1-800-633-3256 to receive more information about this newly created full pallet program.

Desert Shores Motor Coach Resort Announces
Grand Opening of Mountain Vista Collection

Desert Shores Motor Coach Resort, a premier destination resort in the Palm Springs Desert, had a Grand Opening Saturday, March 26, of its latest phase of development, the Mountain Vista Collection.

Every site benefits by lake views, water features and dramatic mountain vistas. The 60 acre resort features 141 waterfront sites on extra large (60' x 120') lots, each with its own custom-built 1200 square foot casita adjacent to a Motorcoach pad.

The new Mountain Vista Collection offers some of the choicest view lots ever released and three newly designed floorplans, with a choice of two exterior elevations featuring exciting new architectural detailing. Each casita includes an expansive kitchen and veranda with gas fireplace, a hobby room, full bath and ample garage and storage space. Optional backyard packages include a private pool and spa, outdoor fireplace, custom lighting and gardenscapes.

"We're very pleased with the reception to the resort", notes Bob Lee, Desert Shores Developer and Founder of Country Coach, Inc. "People appreciate the generous lot sizes and the opportunity for customization. Our March Grand Opening was the first opportunity for interested parties to "stake their claim" on this release."

For more information on Desert Shores contact Barbara Gilfoy at (760)775-9808 or visit www.desertshoresresort.com.

Gulf Stream Coach Builds New Welcome Center

Gulf Stream Coach is continuing construction of its new welcome center for the motorized division. The new center will enhance communication and efficiency between departments and serve as a first class welcome center for dealers, RV customers and suppliers. A projected move-in date is set prior to Gulf Stream‚s new product show in mid-June.

RV Rental Business Shows Robust Growth

The RV rental market grew at a robust 63% rate between 1997 and 2002, according to two preliminary reports recently issued by the U.S. Census Bureau and analyzed by the RV Rental Association (RVRA).

RV rental revenue totaled $350.3 million in 2002, compared with an inflation-adjusted $215.0 million spent during 1997, the Census Bureau reported. The 1997 revenue figure was adjusted for the 12% inflation occurring during the 1997-to-2002 time period, in order to express the 1997 amount in terms of 2002 dollars.

The vast majority of RV rental revenue was generated by firms specializing in RV rentals. Sales at RV rental firms increased 72.5% from an inflation-adjusted $174.2 million in 1997 to $300.5 million in 2002. Meanwhile, the amount spent on RV rentals at RV dealerships expanded by an inflation-adjusted 22% from $40.8 million in 1997 to $49.8 million in 2002.

The increase in revenue at RV rental firms can be explained to a significant degree by the nearly 72 percent growth in the number of RV rental company locations.The bureau reports the number of locations where RV rentals was the primary business expanded by 71.5 percent to 403 in 2002, from 235 locations in 1997.

The number of RV dealerships also offering rentals grew by 14% to 327 locations in 2002, from 286 in 1997, the bureau added. RVRA is a division of the national RV Dealers Association (RVDA)

“RV Friendly” Concept Gains Popularity, Unifies Industry

With RV Friendly road sign logos appearing or set to appear on Gas-Food-Lodging signs on highways in Oregon and Louisiana, legislators from several other states have introduced or are contemplating legislation to allow for the logo to appear on signs in their state.

The RV Friendly logo alerts RV motorists of highway-side facilities that cater to the special needs of motorhomes and RV trailer combinations at specific highway exits. When RV Friendly logos are included on the highway exit logo signs of qualified facilities, RV motorists know that those businesses will provide them with destinations where maneuverability is not an issue

Oregon was the first state to conduct a limited experiment with RV Friendly Signs through the Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA) experimentation process. FHWA welcomes the opportunity to work with other States that may be interested in conducting a similar experimentation such as Oregon's. Oregon has included the RV friendly symbol as a separate panel on the blue background of the logo sign. Louisiana has taken a different approach. Louisiana has approved the use of the RV symbol through state legislation and their approach is to include the RV symbol within the actual business logo.

RV Friendly highway sign legislation has now been introduced in Alabama, Tennessee and Washington and legislators in at least four other states are contemplating introducing or amending legislation to allow for RV Friendly highway sign logos.

"Since each of these states is implementing this initiative independently, it is critical that advocates attempt to keep the RV Friendly criteria and logo consistent throughout the states," said RVIA Vice President of Government Relations Dianne Farrell. FHWA agrees with Farrell that having consistent logo design, logo placement, and logo criteria will be convenient for RV tourists because they can expect uniformity it its application throughout the United States. The RV Friendly highway sign initiative is popular with all aspects of the industry. RVIA, RV dealers, state RV associations and RV owner clubs are rallying for additional initiatives in other states. "This concept brings together our entire industry," explained Becky Lenington, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Recreation Vehicle and Camping Association. 
Criteria for RV Friendly Establishments
The following criteria for RV Friendly establishments were developed in Oregon by state officials and RV owners during the experiments with the RV Friendly logo. It has since become the standard for the Louisiana RV Friendly highway sign law and all other RV Friendly highway sign legislation introduced to date.

• Roadway access and egress must be hard surface, free of potholes and need to be at least 12 feet     wide with a minimum swing radius of 50 feet to enter and exit the facility.
• Roadway access, egress and parking facilities must be free of any electrical wires, tree branches or other obstructions up to 14 feet above the surface.
• Facilities requiring short-term parking (restaurants, tourist attractions, etc.,) are required to have two or more spaces that are 12 feet wide and 65 feet long with a swing radius of 50 feet to enter and exit the spaces.
• Fueling facilities with canopies are required to have a 14-foot clearance and those selling diesel fuel are required to have pumps with non-commercial nozzles.
• Fueling facilities must allow for pull-through with swing radius of 50 feet.
• For campgrounds, two or more spaces that are 18 feet wide and 45 feet long are required.

RVIA to Support Efforts of Great Outdoors Month 2005
President George W. Bush is expected to officially
proclaim June 2005 as Great Outdoors Month

June is an especially active time for recreation in America, with millions of people taking part in summertime activities and hundreds of annual events and meetings ranging from National Trails Day to National Boating and Fishing Week, National Family Recreation Week to National Clean Beaches Week. Recognition of the value of recreation and the importance of June as a time of recreation activity prompted Presidential designation of June as Great Outdoors Month for the first time in 2004.

During his proclamation last year, the President recalled the trek of Captains Lewis and Clark 200 years ago and the inspiring sights they recorded in their journals. He noted, “The splendor of the great outdoors continues to inspire our citizens, and a love of outdoor recreation remains a fundamental part of the American character. By observing ‘Great Outdoors Month,’ we celebrate our commitment to appreciating and protecting our natural wealth.” He then called upon all Americans to celebrate the month through participation in recreational activities.

Dozens of organizations responded to the Presidential proclamation, organizing the Great Outdoors Month Coalition to coordinate both existing and new celebrations of the diverse and valued recreation opportunities across the nation, and especially those linked to America’s public lands and waters, which cover more than a third of the nation’s surface and attract billions of visits annually.

Great Outdoors Month 2005 Activities
This year’s “Great Outdoors Month” will include a special focus on the role of recreation as a catalyst for physical activity needed to combat obesity and on the 100th anniversary of the Forest Service, which manages some of the nation’s best-loved recreation places. Great Outdoors Month 2005 will also celebrate a tradition of volunteerism in the outdoors through highlighting events like National Trails Day and the Take Pride in America program.

Great Outdoors Month 2005 is officially in June, but the celebrations will begin Memorial Day weekend and continue into July with the honoring of the 100th anniversary of the Forest Service and the Smithsonian Institution’s Folklife Festival, held on the Mall between the U.S. Capitol and the White House.

The goal of Great Outdoors Month is to show families, communities and the nation how recreation can be a valuable means for education, and that volunteerism is a great gift. In conducting this celebration, the administration hopes to reach America’s youth with the message that outdoor recreation is a fun, healthy use of their leisure time. 

RVIA to Provide PR Support for Great Outdoors 2005 
June’s “Great Outdoors Month” offers RVIA a national platform to showcase RV travel to the American public. In conjunction with the American Recreation Coalition (ARC) the RVIA public relations team will be pursuing attempts to persuade a national morning news show to do a live broadcast from a National Park, demonstrating how RVs enable families to pursue a variety of outdoor recreation activities. In addition, RVIA plans to incorporate “Great Outdoors Month” messages in ongoing media pitches and Go RVing consumer outreach mechanisms such as the monthly e-newsletter and website. For more information log onto www.greatoutdoorsmonth.org.

Take a Stand Against Rising Health-Care Costs
Support the “Small Business Health Fairness Act”

There is a long-term solution for reducing health care payments: Contact your Representatives in the U.S. Congress and encourage their support for HR 525, the “Small Business Health Fairness Act.” The bill would allow trade associations to offer Association Health Plans (AHPs), enabling small-business owners to band together across state lines to purchase health insurance through the nonprofit organization. The legislation should reduce premiums and provide small companies with greater health insurance options.

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the bill in 2003 and 2004, but it died when the Senate failed to act. SEMA needs your help to make sure Congress gets the job done this time. The first step is to get the bill passed by the House Education and Workforce Committee and then again by the House of Representatives—this time by such overwhelming numbers that the Senate will be compelled to act.

Contact your Representative in the U.S. House and ask them to support HR 525.

Dexter Axle Acquires L. E. Technologies

Dexter Axle has completed the acquisition of L. E. Technologies. Dexter Axle is the leading manufacturer of light to medium duty trailer axles in North America with eight manufacturing locations and over 1,500 employees.

L. E. Technologies, through their subsidiaries: Leland Engineering, AMFAB, and Venture Technologies, manufactures recreational vehicle frames, fabricated metal components and provides specialty coating services. The company employs approximately 500 people in their Indiana and Michigan facilities.

Mike Jones, President of Dexter Axle commented: “Both our company’s focus on quality and customer satisfaction provide a natural fit and we believe that business synergies will provide substantial opportunity to improve both companies. We welcome L. E. Technologies to the Dexter family.”

Dexter Axle is a wholly owned subsidiary of Tomkins, a world-class global engineering and manufacturing group with market and technical leadership across three business areas: Industrial and Automotive, Air Systems Components, and Engineered and Construction Products.

Blue Ox Increases NASCAR Involvement in 2005

Race fans, you get your motors running because Blue Ox is gearing up for an exciting new season of life in the fast lane as the company increases its participation in America's fastest growing sport -- NASCAR Racing.

Brand new for 2005 is Blue Ox’s contingency sponsorship program in NASCAR’s Craftsman Truck Series, which is celebrating its tenth year of competition.

Trucks carrying the Blue Ox logo on the front quarter panel will compete against each other with bonuses awarded to the top three finishers in each event. We’re pleased to report that every single one of the 36 trucks that competed in the season opening race at Daytona International Speedway carried the Blue Ox contingency sticker and participated in the program.

Also new for 2005 is a partnership with Workhorse Custom Chassis at this season’s races hosted by Texas Motor Speedway.

Texas Motor Speedway was awarded a second Nextel Cup/Busch Series weekend in 2005 and their return visit in November will fall right in the middle of the 10-race Nextel Cup Chase for the Championship making it a pivotal event in determining who will win the series title.

For the second consecutive year, Blue Ox has secured naming rights to the campground at Bristol Motor Speedway, an exciting facility billed as the World’s Fastest Half Mile Track.

An onsite display in Bristol will once again invite fans to get up close and personal with the Blue Ox product line while invited guests will be entertained in style in the Blue Ox hospitality suite.

Through its participation in these various programs, Blue Ox looks forward to continuing to meet its goal of raising brand awareness among the 75 million NASCAR fans nationwide.

Bristol Motor Speedway Announces Blue Ox Fan Survey Winner

 Ernestine Dennis, a Bristol Motor Speedway season ticket holder, will experience the Sharpie 250 and Food City 500 in style this April.

Dennis completed the Blue Ox Fan Survey in the November 2004 edition of the High Banks Low Down newsletter and had her name drawn from the list of submissions. Blue Ox, the market leader in steering, towing, hitching, and braking products, provided the grand prize of $1000 worth of towing products, a free RV camping spot at the Blue Ox Campground and two public suite passes for the Sharpie 250 and Food City 500 on April 2-3. 

"Last year was our first year coming to Bristol. We wanted tickets for many years and finally got picked from the lottery," Dennis said. "So at first we couldn't even get tickets and now I have two sets. This is unbelievable!" 

The Blue Ox Fan Survey asked season ticket holders various questions about the newsletter and their lodging choices when coming to BMS events. The results are used to continually improve fans' experiences when coming to Bristol. 

"Year in and year out fans pick Bristol Motor Speedway as their favorite place to attend a race," said BMS president Jeff Byrd. "Along with Blue Ox, BMS will always listen to fan input so we can continue to improve Bristol so that it's always number one with the fans."

Camping spots in the Blue Ox Campground are sold out for both NASCAR events in 2005.

From the Fairways to the Roadways:
             Trojan Battery’s 80 Years of Deep Cycle Excellence

The Trojan Battery team is proud of the company’s heritage and the premium RV batteries that it offers; hence our theme: More power. Longer life™.

Study Reveals RV Park Attributes That Win RVers Over

A new study reveals that a helpful staff, clean grounds, and a swimming pool are the three qualities most often cited by RVers as reasons that they like an RV park. Lower on the list are free wireless Internet access and a shuttle service to nearby attractions.

The study was conducted by RVShark.com, a website that has been praised by publications as diverse as Forbes Magazine and Campground Management. 

RVShark.com analyzed opinions submitted by RVers between January 2004 and March 2005. Only United States RV parks that received mostly favorable reviews were considered. 

he Top 25 Positive Attributes of U.S. RV Parks Most Frequently Cited by RVers, 01/01/04- 03/21/05 were:

Webb Wheel Updates and Improves Product Catalog 

The Aftermarket Business Unit of Webb Wheel has updated and improved their widely-used product catalog. The company’s catalog, considered the standard in the commercial vehicle aftermarket, has the most comprehensive listing of drums and rotors in the industry. The catalog includes complete drum and rotor industry cross references as well as application, specification, and maintenance information. Webb has also added a hub and spoke wheel data section including information which is useful when replacing wheel end components including part numbers, bearing configurations, disc wheel and drum compatibility, and mounting specifications. 

The new parts catalog, now identified as their Hub and Drum Catalog, is available on line at www.webbwheel.com/servicesupport/brochures/Catalog2005.pdf or you can visit the site www.webbwheel. com and complete a literature request form and the company will send the material requested.

New Michelin XRV Tire Lets RV Owners Carry More

Michelin is launching a new version of its popular XRV tire for RV owners wanting to carry more on their trips while improving handling and durability. The new tire, size 305/70R22.5 Load Range L is aimed specifically at RV owners wanting to take more with them on trips. Michelin announced the new tire at the Family Motor Coach Association (FMCA) Rally in Perry, GA.

“The new design and size is the latest in our popular XRV line and is aimed specifically at addressing the number one issue among RV owners, load capacity," said Michael Burroughes, product portfolio manager for Michelin America Truck Tires. "Often overloaded, tires continue to be one of the most significant maintenance and safety issues on RVs today.The new XRV tire provides RV owners with additional flexibility to customize their RV or simply take along additional supplies on their trip."

The new Michelin XRV tire provides the following benefits:
* Exceptional traction on wet and slippery surfaces from full-depth siping and wide "see through" grooves that maximize water drainage on rainy roads. 
* New low profile size offers increased carrying capacity versus a 27570R22.5 LRJ tire with minimal increase in overall diameter (+1 inch). 
* Smaller overall diameter (-2.3 inches) with same carrying capacity as the larger 295/80R22.5 LRH. 
* Stable "cool-running" tread generates reduced squirm and lower heat for improved handling and durability. 
* A very quiet ride from "tuned" variable pitch tread elements. 
* Large sidewall characters that make load/pressure information easier to read facilitating proper use and maintenance. 
* Anti-Ozone protection built into the tire’s sidewall helps provide improved weather resistance equaling longer life. 

"Your tires are the only thing between your RV and the road, so it’s important to make sure they are not overloaded and that they are properly maintained," said Doug Jones, customer engineering support manager for MATT. "No matter how much a tire can carry, if you do not regularly check your tire’s pressure, you are decreasing its life and its ability to carry additional weight. Tires are not indestructible objects and they do require regular maintenance to ensure they perform to their designed specifications." 

In addition to the new 305/70R22.5 size, the XRV is also available in 225/70R19.5, 245/70R19.5 and 255/80R22.5 representing the majority of the sizes used on today RV marketplace. Michelin’s XRV tire is produced at the company's manufacturing facility in Spartanburg, S.C. 

Coachmen and Coleman Reach Settlement Agreement

Coachmen Industries, Inc. (NYSE: COA) and The Coleman Company, Inc. have reached an agreement to settle the differences at issue in the lawsuit between the parties.

Coachmen filed the lawsuit against Coleman in Federal Court in Kansas in November 2004 after a Kansas State Court enjoined Coleman from licensing Coachmen to use the Coleman® trademark on recreational vehicles. Coachmen sought an injunction from the Federal Court to require Coleman to continue to license Coachmen to use the Coleman trademark.

As part of the settlement, the parties will dismiss the litigation and the license agreement between Coachmen and Coleman shall be null and void. In addition, Coleman will reimburse Coachmen for certain expenses it incurred under the License Agreement.

Both Coachmen and Coleman indicated that dismissing the litigation and moving forward would be mutually beneficial for both parties. “We are obviously disappointed that our licensing relationship with Coleman will not develop as contemplated. However, we believe it is in the best interests of all concerned to bring this matter to a prompt conclusion so that we can all move forward,” said Claire C. Skinner, Chairman and CEO of Coachmen Industries, Inc.

Coleman and its parent, American Household, Inc., was acquired last month by Jarden Corporation (NYSE: JAH). In commenting on the settlement, Jarden Chairman and CEO, Martin Franklin said, “I would like to express my admiration and respect for Coachmen and wish them the best of success in the future.”

Coachmen Industries, Inc., founded in 1964, is one of America’s leading manufacturers of recreational vehicles, systems-built homes and commercial buildings, with prominent subsidiaries in each industry. The Company’s well-known RV brand names include COACHMEN®, GEORGIE BOY™, SPORTSCOACH® and VIKING®. Through ALL AMERICAN HOMES®, Coachmen is one of the nation’s largest producers of systems-built homes, and also a major builder of commercial structures with its ALL AMERICAN BUILDING SYSTEMS™ and MILLER BUILDING SYSTEMS™ products. Prodesign, LLC, produces custom thermoformed plastic parts for numerous industries under the PRODESIGN® brand. Coachmen Industries, Inc. is a publicly held company with stock listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the ticker COA.

Nation's Largest RV Dealer Network, REDEX,
Selects CrossCheck's Guarantee Service

CrossCheck, Inc., the nation's largest privately held check guarantee provider, announced that REDEX (Recreational Dealers Exchange Company), America's largest RV dealer network, will use its check guarantee services to broaden the network's customer payment solutions.

REDEX, for the first time, can now offer its RV dealers maximum check authorization flexibility, including acceptance of large, out-of-town check payments, with CrossCheck's Premium Approval service. Dealerships can extend the down payment time period with Multiple Check service, and Disputed Stop Payment checks are also covered under CrossCheck's service plan.

"We selected CrossCheck as our check guarantee provider, because their service allows our RV dealers to accept more checks overall, including down payments," said Paul Skogebo, REDEX President.

"Many of our customers travel full-time and can't use out-of-state checks to obtain service or parts when traveling. CrossCheck permits our dealers to accept checks from these valued customers as well."

"We feel our service will greatly benefit the REDEX dealership group by providing a complete payment program that is reliable and affordable," said J. David Siembieda, President and CEO of CrossCheck.

REDEX buying group, founded in 1996, is a coalition of 90 dealership locations that account for more than $2 billion annually in RV retail sales, about 18 percent of the national total. For more information about REDEX, contact Paul Skogebo at (480) 834-9410. CrossCheck, Inc. provides check guarantee for a variety of merchants nationwide. For more than 20 years, its goal has been to increase merchants' profits by allowing them to accept more checks and to provide their customers with payment flexibility. Annually, CrossCheck handles and approves billions of dollars worth of transactions for its retail and dealer outlets. For more information, visit www.crosscheck. com.

Lazydays Ranked #1 RV Dealership in the U.S.

For calendar year 2004, Statistical Surveys has ranked Lazydays the number one RV dealership in the U.S. This national award has been given for two categories. They are: (i) all RV’s and (ii) all Class A and Class C motor homes combined. For the first time ever, Statistical Surveys has computed this ranking for 49 reporting states. In the past, this ranking was based on only 25 reporting states.

“This is a wonderful and prestigious award for our dealership to receive. I am grateful to Tom Walworth and Statistical Surveys for the additional effort that they have made to capture and give all dealers credit for the new RVs that they sell throughout the United States. I am very proud of the accomplishments of our employee partners and also very grateful to our wonderful customers for helping us to achieve this #1 designation,” says Lazydays’ Founder and CEO, Don Wallace.

Discovery Channels' Monster House Will Feature 
"Monsterized" 1951 Nasshua RV

When Kari Ann and Jay Gerlach purchased their 1951 Nasshua RV on ebay.com for less than $400, they knew they'd have fun with their new project. What they didn't know was that they'd raise thousands of dollars for charity and end up on a popular TV show because of it.

Active in her local Junior League in Santa Barbara, Kari Ann wanted to add some excitement to the Black Tie Gala event held annually to raise money for charity. She contacted Monster House and proposed the idea that they "monster" her house in relation to a charity event. The producers liked the idea. But while reviewing Kari and Jay's house, the RV in the back yard caught their eye and they immediately had visions of grandeur -- or lack thereof. In the ensuing weeks and months, what was once a plain "canned ham" looking RV was transformed into a "Good Ol' Boy" unit complete with rusty paint, 1970's wood paneling, a truck bed banquette, chicken coop wire in the kitchen and an outhouse.

Once notified about the project, Camping World, was more than happy to pitch in. The Gerlachs will be enjoying new appliances and accessories including a water heater & pump, refrigerator, propane tanks & hoses, mattress, grill, outdoor lights, light switches, 11 foot awning, toilet and dinnerware set compliments of Camping World.

"With the steady growth in numbers of RVers throughout the country and the 'makeover' craze going on, Camping World was thrilled to contribute to this project," said Mark Boggess, Camping World CEO. "We are looking forward to seeing the final product on TV."

Tune in to the Discovery Channel on Friday, April 1 and see the Good Ol' Boy Trailer. It might just inspire you to have a little fun with your home or RV.

AJT Engineers Efficient, Odorless Water Treatment System
for RV’s and Portable Bathrooms

AJT & Associates, Inc., a scientific and engineering company, is launching a new product that will allow fully operational advanced sewage treatment systems to be integrated into mobile restroom facilities. AJT will initially market the product, the Dragonfly System, to recreational vehicle and portable bathroom facility manufacturers.

AJT’s patented technology utilizes an advanced aerobic system and a Programmable Logic Computer (PLC) to automate the water treatment and recycling process, eliminating the need to handle black water. With flushing and treatment capabilities, the Dragonfly acts like a miniature water reclamation plant to effectively treat and sterilize wastewater.

Modu-Built, a Tampa-based company specializing in manufacturing fiberglass modules for security and other applications, has joined efforts with AJT to integrate the Dragonfly System into one of their model units.

“AJT is teaming up with Modu-Built to launch a customized unit featuring our proprietary system, which we will incorporate into a fully operational bathroom facility,” says Alfredo Teran, CEO, AJT & Associates, Inc. “These units represent a small sample of the many applications in which the Dragonfly System can be integrated.” Modu-Built provides customers with the best value within the range of prefabricated, completely self-contained modular buildings. Modu-Built is the only modular buildings system which is truly mobile and flexible. The units can be adapted for a number of applications including security buildings, disaster relief, EMS stations, and concession stands. For more information visit their Web site at www.modu-built.com.

AJT & Associates, Inc. is a scientific and engineering company that has been in operation for over seventeen years. With extensive experience in environmental control systems, AJT specializes in the design and manufacturing of advanced water and wastewater management and treatment systems. AJT serves federal, state and local government, aerospace prime contractors, and commercial clients. For more information, visit www.AJT.com or call 321.783.7989, ext. 271.

Drew Industries’ David L. Webster Enters RV/MH Hall of Fame

Drew Industries Incorporated (NYSE: DW), a leading supplier of components for recreational vehicles ("RV") and manufactured housing ("MH"), today announced that David L.Webster, Chairman, President and CEO of Drew's Kinro Inc. subsidiary, was elected to the RV/MH Heritage Foundation's Hall of Fame class of 2005. A ceremony for the inductees will be held in Elkhart, IN on August 1, 2005.

Drew said Webster was recognized for his leadership in the MH and RV industries for more than 25 years. Webster serves on the board of the Manufactured Housing Institute and American Architectural Manufacturers Association, and is on Drew's Board of Directors.

"David has played an important leadership role within both the manufactured housing and RV industries, and within Drew for many years," said Leigh J. Abrams, Drew's President and CEO. "Under David's guidance, Kinro has grown from a small supplier in 1980, to one of the premier suppliers in the country to both the RV and MH industries. As a 2005 Hall of Fame inductee, he takes his place among a select group of leaders in our industry whose dedication to quality and superior service are unsurpassed."

The RV/MH Heritage Foundation created its Hall of Fame in recognition of those who demonstrate exceptional leadership in the recreational vehicle and manufactured housing industries.
 

RVIA Board Reconfirms Commitment to Distance Learning by
Authorizing $250,000 for 2005-06 Season

The RVIA Board of Directors reconfirmed its enthusiasm for and commitment to the Distance Learning Network (DLN) by guaranteeing up to $250,000 for the 2005-06 season.

With the guarantee, the RVIA Standards and Education department will be able to secure broadcast time for the distribution of the RV service training programs in 2005-06. “This will allow for a more convenient, efficient learning experience, which should lead to more technicians signing up to complete these important certification courses,” said RVIA Vice President of Standards and Education Bruce Hopkins.

The National Distance Learning Network (DLN) is in its fourth year of bringing highly professional education directly to RV technicians and the program has now grown to include a total of 228 dealers. Of the 228 participants currently registered, 36 are Florida dealers and 192 are located in the other 49 states and Canada.

This year’s program featured new graphic enhancements in video instructions that made the presentations more eye-appealing and helped engage the viewer for a better learning experience. Customer Service, PDI, Communication Skills and Customer Orientation/Walk Through were some of the new programs that were added.`

RV Technician Certification Training

RV Technician Certification Preparation training is being broadcasted every Wednesday from 4:30 to 6 EST. The 40-week, 60- hour curriculum utilizes the textbooks and course materials produced by RVIA. Some of the subjects covered include: Introduction to RV Service; Air Conditioning; Brakes, Suspension and Towing Systems; Basic Electricity; Electrical Systems; Generators; Heating Systems; LP Gas Systems and more. Advanced Technician programming is being broadcast on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the same time slot from RVIA and industry companies.

The following industry companies have members serving on the RV Technician Certification Council, provided programming for the 04-05 season or have signed on to provide programming for the upcoming 2005-06 season. They are: Airstream, Airxcel, Alcoa, Atwood, Blue Ox, Carefree, Cequent Towing, Coachmen, Coast, Dexter Axle, Dometic, Fleetwood, Four Winds Generac, Jayco, K - Z, KVH, Kwikee, Manchester, Manufac. Supply, Marshall Gas, Monaco, Norcold/Thetford, Onan, Parallax Power, Roadtrek, RV Safety, Shurflo, Stag-Parkway, Suburban, Sunline Coach, Uponor, Winnebago and Xantrex.`

RVIA Board Resolves Several Key Issues During Meeting in AZ

The RVIA Board of Directors resolved several key issues in addition to selecting the association’s president-elect during their winter meeting on March 1 in Fountain Hills, Ariz.

The meeting, preceded by a two-day strategic planning session and a board dinner, resulted in several key motions being passed.

In addition to naming Richard Coon of Cummins Power Generation as president-elect, the Board also named Carl Pfalzgraf of Atwood Mobile Products as its first vice chairman effective June 1 when Coon steps down from his current position on the Executive Committee as RVIA first vice chairman. Gregg Fore of Dicor Corp., will replace Pfalzgraf as Treasurer at that time.

Term Limits
Another important issue that was discussed during the meeting was term limits. The previous policy required board members to step down for one year after serving three consecutive three-year terms. It was resolved that in the interest of the development of the Association’s leadership and succession planning, the Board may waive the tolling of any term for an Executive Committee member. This would allow an Executive Committee member to progress through all of the officer positions without having to step down for a year.

Other Motions
Additional motions that were passed during the meeting included:
* The February 2006 Board of Directors meeting will be held February 24-25 in South Florida.
* The 2006 Annual meeting will be held Sept. 21-23 in the western region of the country such as California, Wyoming or Utah.
* Starting with the 2005 show, the National RV Trade Show’s space rates will increase by 3% for all exhibitors.
* Starting with the 2005 show, all park trailer exhibitors at the National RV Trade Show will be located in the Broadbent Arena and limited to 2,000 square feet each when space allocation isn’t necessary. It will remain 1,000 square feet when allocation is necessary.
* Starting with the 2005 show, all National RV Trade Show international attendees will be charged the same registration fees as Canadian and domestic attendees.
* RVIA will contribute $80,000 to support the Trailer Safety Industry Coalition’s testing plans regarding its wheel attachment.
* The RVIA Board adopted the 2005 editions of the NFPA 1192, 12V and NEC codes.
* The RVIA Board approved an Executive Committee proposal to appoint a Bylaws Committee.
* RVIA Board approved funding up to $250,000 for the distance-learning network for the 2005- 2006 training season. Additionally, the Board approved funding for a new director staff position to assist with program development for RV service training education.`

Carl Pfalzgraf to Become First Vice Chairman June 1

The RVIA Board of Directors named Carl Pfalzgraf of Atwood Mobile Products its new first vice chairman and Gregg Fore of Dicor Corp. to replace Pfalzgraf as its Treasurer effective June 1, during their meeting in Fountain Hills, AZ.

RVIA President-Elect Richard Coon, a supplier member from Cummins Power Generation, currently is RVIA first vice chairman and was in line to be RVIA’s next chairman on Oct. 1, 2006. He will step down from RVIA’s Executive Committee on June 1.

Since an RVIA supplier member has not occupied the chairmanship in over a decade, the Board decided it was appropriate to elevate Pfalzgraf to first vice chairman and bring Gregg Fore of Dicor Corp., onto the Executive Committee as treasurer.

Pfalzgraf, who was recently promoted by Atwood to Executive Vice President, has been a member of the Board of Directors since 1991 and has served as RVIA Treasurer since 2003. He has been chairman of the Industry Education Committee, Audit Committee and Supplier Committee and has served as a member of the Conversion Vehicle Committee, Membership Committee and the Strategic Planning Committee. He received the RVIA National Education Service Award in 1995. Fore has been a member of the RVIA Board of Directors since 1999. He has served as chairman of the Awards Committee and Nominating Committee and has been a member of the National Show Committee and Public & Legislative Affairs Committee.

The new 2004-05 Executive Committee beginning June 1 will include: Chairman Bruce Hertzke of Winnebago Industries; First Vice Chairman Carl Pfalzgraf of Atwood Mobile Products; Second Vice Chairman Ron Doyle of Western RV; Treasurer Gregg Fore of Dicor Corp.; Secretary Jim Sheldon of Monaco Coach Corp.; Immediate Past Chairman Claire Skinner of Coachmen Industries; and RVIA President Dave Humphreys.`

2005 Annual Meeting to be Held in Historic Williamsburg, Virginia

RVIA has selected the Kingsmill Resort in historic Williamsburg, VA, as the site of its 2005 Annual Meeting Sept. 22-24.

Attendees will have numerous opportunities to learn about the association, gain insights in areas important to their daily routines and interact with fellow industry members. The Annual Meeting’s business agenda will begin on Thursday, Sept. 22 with the RVIA Executive Committee and Board of Directors meetings. On Friday, Sept. 23 informative seminars will fill the morning hours, leaving the afternoon open for attendees to take in some of the local attractions. The business agenda concludes on Saturday morning, Sept. 24th with the Annual Membership Meeting featuring various reports on association activities including the latest on the Go RVing national advertising campaign. This year’s reception and dinner on Saturday evening, Sept. 24, will also include a special tribute to RVIA President Dave Humphreys, as he prepares to step down in January 2006.

This year’s program will also include a Suppliers’ Day event being arranged by Supplier Committee Chairman Carl Pfalzgraf and his committee in partnership with the Annual Meeting Committee chaired by John Margalski of Workhorse Custom Coach. Look for more details on this event after the Committee Week proceedings in June.

Social events during the Annual Meeting will provide members key opportunities to interact in more relaxed settings, beginning with the welcome reception on Thursday, Sept. 22. For more information call Lisa Collett or Gatie Gore at (800) 336-0154, ext. 305 or 330.`

RVIA Headed Back to Willard Hotel
in Washington, D.C. for Committee Week 2005

RVIA will hold Committee Week once again at the Willard Inter-Continental Hotel in Washington, D.C., June 6-9.

RVIA members will gather at the Willard Hotel to plan the association’s agenda for fiscal year 2006. Eleven RVIA standing committees, the Executive Committee and the Board of Directors will meet during the annual four-day event. The Go RVing Coalition and its Committee on Excellence are also scheduled to meet.

The Willard has been a favorite of presidents and world figures since 1850. It is located just two blocks from the White House and in the heart of Washington’s business district. The hotel is close to the Metro, shopping, many fine restaurants and several of D.C.’s most famous tourist sights.`

RVIA Board Authorizes $80,000 Funding to RV Trailer Coalition

The RVIA board authorized funding of $80,000 toward the Trailer Safety Industry Coalition’s (TSIC) $170,000 project to test a variety of wheel components (lugs, studs, aluminum and steel wheels), and run tests on travel trailers and fifth wheels.

These tests, also being funded through component suppliers, the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM), The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and The National Truck and Equipment Association (NTEA), are being proposed in order to determine what the actual wheel loads are and what clamping force is necessary for the proper wheel-to-hub interface connection. “This effort won’t be all encompassing, but it should give the entire trailer industry, not just the RV industry, very good data to resolve the loss of torque issue that sometimes happens in the early stages of a trailer’s life,” said RVIA Vice President of Standards and Education Bruce Hopkins. “The Standards Steering Committee is going to be closely involved in setting the test parameters and determining the results,” he said.

According to Hopkins, this effort will also result in adding wheel assembly educational seminars to the upcoming 2005-06 continuing education programs.`

RVIA Education Department Hires New Director of Programming

The RVIA Standards and Education Department recently hired Paul Noeth as its new director of programming. “Paul will be assisting us with the development of all new programs for the Distance Learning Network,” said RVIA Vice President of Standards and Education Bruce Hopkins. “He will help us script the programming, assist with the development of our latest initiative to offer Trouble Shooter Clinics online, and be available to assist manufacturers and suppliers in developing their own programs on the Distance Learning Network.

“Paul has a background in public relations and advertising, extensive technical programing and photography expertise and is very computer saavy,” says Hopkins. “I think he will bring a lot to the table in terms of helping us further improve all our RV Technician Certification and Distance Learning programs.” he said.`

RV Learning Center Scholarship Available:
Application Deadline is June 3, 2005

The RVDA Education Foundation’s RV Learning Center Scholarship program, is now accepting applications for the 2005-2006 school year. The program awards scholarships to rising sophomore, junior, or senior college undergraduate students interested in majoring in business, finance, economics, or accounting.

Recipients are selected based on academic achievement, a 500-word essay on their goals and objectives in college, extracurricular activities and honors, and financial need. Applicants must be employees, or dependents, at RV dealerships or other RV-related companies. Dealer principals and their dependents are not eligible.

The scholarships are made possible through the generosity of the Newt and Joanne Kindlund Family. The Kindlunds founded the first publicly-traded RV dealership. The Kindlunds sold the company in 1999. Newt Kindlund remains an active participant in RV industry affairs and currently serves on The RVDA Education Foundation Board of Directors. The Kindlund Family, to date, has pledged $270,000 to the Foundation’s scholarship endowment.

“I am pleased the RV Learning Center is able to recognize outstanding commitment to learning with the scholarship program,” said RVDA Education Foundation Chairman of the Board Rick Horsey of Parkview RV Center in Smryna, DE. “The industry owes the Kindlund family their thanks for funding this excellent program.”

For more information on the scholarship program, as well as an application form, visit www.rvlearningcenter.org, send an e-mail to info@rvda.org, or send a fax to The RVDA Education Foundation at (703) 591-0734. The deadline for applications for the 2005-2006 academic year is Friday, June 3, 2005.

The RVDA Education Foundation is the educational arm of RVDA. Because the Foundation is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, donations to the Foundation may be tax deductible as charitable contributions.