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October 24, 2020
If you would like to read this week’s issue with the ads included, click here.
Editor’s corner
With Chuck Woodbury
The angry comments from some readers last week about Nanci Dixon’s article “Where are all the black RVers? were disgusting. By the time our staff rolled out of bed here on the West Coast, there were literally hundreds of comments and emails. Some readers thanked us for the article but many others expressed anger, even hate. It was bad.
In my two decades of publishing online, I have never seen such a display of cyber vomit over a single, thoughtful article, in this case written by a white woman married to a black man about their experiences as RVers. The comments got so mean-spirited and hopelessly out of control we had to close them.
“I WILL NEVER READ ANYTHING YOU WRITE AGAIN!”
At least two dozen readers demanded we cancel their email alerts — fine with us, because they were the nastiest of all. If we can’t publish an essay that might challenge some people’s beliefs, then I, for one, will just wander out to pasture and hang out with the cows.
What we found interesting and, in the end, became the final straw in prompting how we will publish this newsletter from now on, was when we compared the “hate” mail from our two subscriber lists — the free edition and the far smaller one of our voluntary subscribers, our member-donors who believe this website and newsletter are worth supporting with even a modest donation. Nearly all the mean, angry, hateful letters were from readers of the free edition. It spoke volumes to us about the quality difference between the two audiences.
I must pause to acknowledge that there are many fine, respectful people on the free list who are on a very tight budget and unable to lend any financial support. We understand; food on one’s table is far more important. If that’s you, email me and I will personally put you on our donor mailing list.
Our mostly paid staff produces more than 650 newsletters a year: This Saturday edition represents only 8 percent of those. But it’s the one where we post our most engaging and often thought-provoking articles and essays. Consequently, it prompts the most comments — often hundreds within a few hours of appearing.
A NEW PUBLISHING SCHEDULE
Beginning next week we will delay the free edition of this Saturday newsletter until 9 a.m. Pacific time — that’s noon in the East. The member edition will continue to go out seven hours earlier in the wee hours of the morning. By delaying the free edition, our Seattle-based staff will be able to monitor the comments properly after a good night’s sleep.
Before deciding on the time change we had considered closing comments (or at least manually approving them before they appeared) on any article that we suspected might cause controversy. But that would not be fair to the 95 percent of you who comment with intelligence and respect.
MY STAFF AND I WORK HARD. We try our best to provide information that will enhance your RVing life. I am disgusted with the closed-minded individuals who are eager to attack us over anything we write that even mildly challenges their beliefs. Heaven knows there are millions of respectful RVer-readers out there (and we attract hundreds each week as new subscribers) who appreciate our hard work and quality journalism. It’s these respectful people who motivate us to always be better tomorrow than we are today and to serve all our readers in new, creative and valuable ways.
P.S. I am pleased to report that the printed edition of my new book The ABCs of RVing is now available. The book is aimed at aspiring and first-time RVers. It may also be ordered for immediate reading in a Kindle version.
If you are a member of Facebook, be sure to join our RV Advice group. Ask questions, get answers from other RVers. Moderated by our editors.
MEET YOUR FELLOW READERS
In our search to know our readers better, we’ve asked that they tell us about themselves. We know that thousands of them have followed us for a decade or more. We’ve met a few hundred of them through the years, which has been very nice. But who else, we wonder, reads what we write week after week? So, please, tell us about yourself! Here’s our next installment of Meet our Readers.
Today’s RV review…
In today’s review, industry insider Tony Barthel reviews the new 2021 Camp365, a most unusual folding trailer. Tony was surprised by how spacious and usable this camper is yet how very towable it is, too. Learn more.
Last week’s reviews
2021 Grand Design Solitude 3540GK • Winnebago Solis 59PX class B motorhome • 2021 Palomino River Ranch 390 fifth wheel • 2021 Keystone Springdale 242RK travel trailer • 2001 Winnebago Hike 210RB
Read these and all other RV reviews by clicking here.
Last week’s Tip of the Day in RV Daily Tips Newsletters
• Flagpoles: They can be useful or a nuisance.
• RV resale: Appearance matters, so protect your RV’s looks.
• RV tire storage.
• A quick guide to troubleshooting RV furnace problems.
• RVers must take responsibility for their own safety.
Clintoons • By Clint Norrell
Last year at this time, these were the most popular articles
• Reader photos: Another ugly RV park
• I want this! Have you ever seen an RV so cute?
• Your fifth-wheel: Leave it hitched or not?
• Lonely Mina, Nevada. Not a ghost town, but close
• RV Shrink: Campground reservation rip-off
Brain Teaser
A zombie, a mummy and a ghost buy a house. It’s a big house with many rooms, however, one room is missing. Which room is it?
(Shhh. Don’t give it away. The answer is in tomorrow’s newsletter.)
Campground crowding. “I might as well stay home!” and other complaints
We’ve heard from a lot more readers this past week regarding how crowded campgrounds are getting and the negative effect it is having on them and their RVing. One couple plans five years ahead(!). One reader gladly pays higher prices for resorts rather than public campgrounds because they are quieter and better run. One couple, sadly, sold their fifth wheel and F-350 truck two months ago because they’re tired of fighting the crowds. And a couple of readers added suggestions for alternatives to crowded campgrounds. Read this week’s comments here.
Your input wanted on National Park campgrounds of the future
The National Park Service has drafted its “Second Century Campground Strategy” which promises to bring changes to American National Parks. In this video Jason Epperson summarizes the changes the NPS is looking to make for RVers and tent campers. Plus, he shares a little history on the development of National Park campgrounds from the earliest days to a “redesign” in the mid-1960s, and what they may look like in the future. Read more and watch the video, then send in your two cents’ worth to the NPS if you haven’t already.
An easy tip to keep the motorhome warm on the road
By Nanci Dixon
Brrr! It is cold riding in a motorhome in the winter! Granted, we left Minnesota in a snowstorm, so we knew it would be cold, but it is amazing how quickly heat dissipates when it is below freezing outside and the only heat is coming out of the dash. The cold was rushing in from the back and we needed a barrier! Read Nanci’s quick solution here.
Reader Poll
Have you ever met anyone when RVing who became a friend for years?
Please let us know. After you click your response, you’ll see how others have responded. Feel free to leave a comment. CLICK HERE.
The most popular poll in this past week’s RV Daily Tips newsletters:
How many burners are there on your RV’s kitchen stove? See how nearly 2,500 other RVers responded.
Casino RV camping is “the way to go!”
A few weeks ago we mentioned WinStar Casino in Thackerville, OK, as one of our reader’s favorites casino camping spots. Ralph P. shared updated information with us this week about it. And our readers and Facebook group members had some wishes, great experiences and casino camping spots to pass along. Read more.
When RV parts are discontinued, DIY projects to the rescue!
By Nanci Dixon
When motorhome parts are discontinued, it is time for a DIY fix. Our 2017 motorhome has a unique living area wall light – a sconce that was slowly getting dimmer until it only flicked on every once in a while. After several discussions with the RV manufacturer about getting the bulb replaced, it turns out that the LED bulb is not removable or replaceable. Who makes a light that has a bulb that can’t be replaced? And the even better question, who puts it in a motorhome? Find out how Nanci solved this dilemma here.
A perfect fall recipe: Instant Pot Jambalaya with a twist
By Nanci Dixon
My family loves Jambalaya and they love red beans and rice too. With this Instant Pot™ recipe, I decided to take a chance and add red beans to the Jambalaya. This was an experiment that worked! Get the recipe here.
Deer attacks woman. Turns out it was raised by a human
Here’s a reminder about why it is a very bad idea to feed a wild animal, especially one that is large enough to harm a human. This report came from Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Even feeding a wild animal in a campground can lead to trouble. But this was much more than that. Read more.
Mug shots: The second batch!
We asked you to send us a photo of your favorite coffee mug! More than 100 of you have already responded. Our staff had a whole lot of fun looking through your submissions. Keep ’em coming, okay? Here’s the second batch.
Popular articles from last week
• Campground crowding. One reader thinks we don’t need more RV parks…
• RV Review: 2021 Grand Design Solitude 3540GK.
• Casino Camping: There are two types of casino “camping,” and more reader favorites.
• Where are all the black RVers? Why the outdoors isn’t as inclusive as you think.
• 13 tips about work camping that will point you to success.
• Does windchill affect RV water lines freezing when driving?
• RV Review: Winnebago Solis 59PX.
• RVelectricity – Updates on Hughes Autoformer, Dometic 12-volt fridge, SoftStartRV on a solar panel.
• 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 Review: Pricey luxury RV hauler.
• Jogger tracked for 6 minutes by a cougar! Dramatic video.
• RVelectricity – Just Ask Mike (J.A.M.): My WAG chart on solar panels and air conditioners.
• Campground Chatter: Several new campgrounds opening soon.
SWELL CONTEST OF THE DAY
How would you like to win a copy of our editor’s new book, The ABCs of RVing? Well, this might be your lucky day! In one of this past week’s RV Daily Tips newsletters we published a secret phrase. Simply email the phrase to us at RVcontests@gmail.com . We’ll select a winner at random out of all entries we receive today (October 24, 2020) by 7 p.m. Pacific time. Remember, you can only enter once and after we notify you by email that you won, you have 24 hours to respond or we’ll give the prize to someone else.
LAST WEEK’S WINNER of Mike Sokol’s book RV Electrical Safety was Barney Larry Hughes of Gibsonville, North Carolina. The previous week’s winner of the Happy Camper Coffee Mug was Gene Bjerke of Forest, Virginia.
Resources
Where to complain about bad RVs, dealers, service, RV parks. This is an ever-expanding list of resources where you can report, share or discuss your problems with RV manufacturers or dealers.
Best Club for RVers: Escapees. Click here to learn more or join. Endorsed by RVtravel.com.
Directory of RV parks with storm shelters
In case you’re on the road with your RV and the weather report is showing a tornado headed your way, have this list handy.
RV Clubs
Check out our Directory of RV Clubs and Organizations.
What does financing an RV for 20 years REALLY mean?
In case you missed this article the first time around, here it is again. Important! Click here.
Stuck with a lemon RV? Contact Ron Burdge, America’s premier RV lemon law attorney.
RV Gadgets and Gizmos
RVer Product Review: A mosquito repellent that works!
What is the best mosquito repellent for RVers? You see this question a lot in the RV forums and it’s something Tony Barthel was concerned about, being an absolute mosquito magnet. If there’s a mosquito in the county, it’ll find him and bring its friends for a stinging sensation. That is, until now…. Continue reading to learn about a product that works!
Blast from the past video
Pack-Away, Get-Away camper was big news in 1939
This lightweight trailer (caravan) sleeps four. When returned home after a camping trip, the RV could be easily disassembled for easy storage. We don’t think this would be a big hit today.
RV Electricity
Get your RV ready for winter maintenance
Dear Readers,
Since the camping season is just about over, I’m including some tips and gadgets that you can use during your post-camping season maintenance time. There’s more to winterizing your RV than just blowing out the water lines. This is a great time to go over the electrical systems on your RV.
So today’s column will include several tech tips on interesting and important technologies that will help keep your RV humming next spring. Continue reading.
This week’s J.A.M. (Just Ask Mike) Session
My WAG chart on solar panels and air conditioners
Hey Mike,
Please help me understand this. I’ve been following your recent articles about solar panels and air conditioners, and wonder if there’s a simple chart you can provide that will give us a hint of just how hard/expensive or easy/cheap this is to do. And do we really need a SoftStartRV to run an air conditioner with a 2kW inverter, or is that just sales hype? I really appreciate your straight talk on these complicated topics. —Doug Z.
Read Mike’s response (and find out what “WAG” is, if you don’t know) here.
Sign up for Mike’s popular and informative RVelectricity group on Facebook.
RV Tire Safety
Things to consider when buying an air compressor
Here are some things to consider before purchasing an air compressor for your RV, including looking for maximum pressure capability and the rate of inflation – and don’t buy more air compressor than you need. Roger Marble explains it all here.
Building an RV Park
Septic system approved! But costs continue to escalate
The park’s septic system was approved through ADEQ (Arizona Department of Environmental Quality) with no comments or change requests – which is unusual. But why did the park’s soil then have to be tested to 18 feet deep? And the rate things are going, the costs for building the park could be more than $1.5 million! Also, your input is requested to help Machelle and AJ decide what type of fencing to use. All that and more here.
The RV Kitchen
Double Quick, Double Thick Chili
Quicker, thicker chili. This takes a big pot and a big appetite. It can be vegan or vegetarian. Use your favorite beans, preferably one can of each. Need more chili for more folks? Keep adding more beans and adjust seasonings as you go. Make this chili for a big family or freeze leftovers in batches right-sized for your needs. Get the recipe.
Reader letters
Dear Chuck
I am now experiencing the full campgrounds you were writing about as I plan for June 2021 going to the Grand Tetons after Yellowstone. If a park takes reservations, they are all taken. Otherwise it is “first-come, first-served.” So I have to drive to every campground to see if they have a site available! Even the Jackson Hole KOA is first-come, first-served. Driving over from the Aliner national convention at Mt. Rushmore I may return to the Grey Bull KOA as every place I contacted in Cody is full. —Donald Wright
Facebook Groups of Interest
• Birds and Wildlife of North America
• Military RVing
• SUV RVing
Plus, join us in our own groups HERE.
Readers’ Pets of the Day
“What do you mean we can’t drive? Mokie and Buddy try to take the wheel on a recent road trip through Arizona…” —Sylvie Whitman
Pets featured in this past week’s RV Daily Tips:
• Monday: Duncan • Tuesday: Annie & Holly • Wednesday: Keo • Thursday: Gem
• Friday: Alwyn
Trivia
The filling of the popular chocolate bar Kit Kat® is made out of damaged Kit Kats! All Kit Kat bars that don’t turn out perfectly at the factory because of air bubbles, weirdly shaped formations or some other issue aren’t tossed out and wasted. They’re ground up into a fine paste to be used inside the candy bars. How’s that for the circle of life?
Joke of the Week
Wisdom: “If we’re not meant to have midnight snacks, why is there a light in the fridge?”
Leave with a song from the past
What happens when a flying saucer is sighted “hovering over the city?” Well, in this recording from 1956 you will find out. Anyone who was around back in those days who listened to AM radio will experience a big trip down Memory Lane listening to this — and a good laugh, too!
Did you miss last week’s RV Travel?
If you have not contributed to RVtravel.com for some time and would like to do so again, you may do so here. Thank you.
RV Travel’s incredibly talented staff
Editor and publisher: Chuck Woodbury. Managing editor: Diane McGovern. Senior editors: Emily Woodbury, Russ and Tiña De Maris. Contributing writers: Nanci Dixon, Mike Sokol, James Raia, Keith Ward, Roger Marble, Dave Helgeson, Janet Groene, Julianne Crane, Chris Guld, Machelle James, Barry and Monique Zander, J.M. Montigel, Tony Barthel, Clint Norrell, and Andrew Robinson. Social media and special projects director: Jessica Sarvis. Financial affairs director: Gail Meyring. IT wrangler: Kim Christiansen.
FOREVER IN OUR MEMORIES — OUR STAFF MEMBER IN HEAVEN, Gary Bunzer, the RV Doctor, who was taken from us by the coronavirus. We miss him terribly!
Honorary Correspondents: Loyal readers who regularly email us leads about news stories and other information and resources that aid our own news-gathering efforts.
• Mike Sherman • George Bliss • Tom and Lois Speirs • Steve Barnes + others who we will add later.
REGIONAL AND LOCAL ADVERTISING: We can now run banners on RVtravel.com in your town or in a designated area near you, for example to readers within 100, 200, etc., miles of your business. If interested, contact Chuck Woodbury at Chuck (at) RVtravel.com
Everything in this newsletter is true to the best of our knowledge. But we occasionally get something wrong. We’re just human! So don’t go spending $10,000 on something we said was good simply because we said so, or fixing something according to what we suggested (check with your own technician first). Maybe we made a mistake. Tips and/or comments in this newsletter are those of the authors and may not reflect the views of RVtravel.com or this newsletter.
RVtravel.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Regardless of this potential revenue, unless stated otherwise, we only recommend products or services we believe provide value to our readers.
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This newsletter is copyright 2020 by RVtravel.com
Thank you Chuck for you support of the article “Where are all the black RVers”. I will continue to be a member of the newsletter.
Kudos to you for standing up to the hate mongers!
It is so unfortunate that our Great USA has become what it has. I enjoy all the information available on the web,BUT it also allows people to post false information and people post things that are hateful. See this all the time on Facebook but never thought it would happen here. Glad you are working to weed out those who cannot act in a mature manner.
Thanks for again for the great newsletters and particularly your commentary on the hateful posts. I like that you’re trying to mitigate this problem without eliminating comments, and hopefully the method you’ve chosen will help. It inspired me to make another contribution a little sooner than I normally would to help the cause. Keep up the great work.
Finally, there’s a place for everyone at campgrounds, and especially our sites. We love meeting new people and learning about our common likes and differences, even though we find ourselves biting our tongues at times. It is still important for all of us to be tolerant, and who knows how much we have in common until we start talking.
I am appalled and yet not surprised that there was a nasty reaction to a good article. This is a plague that hits every interest group at some point. We applaud your decision to address it quickly and firmly. For us meeting people has been the greatest part of the fun at campgrounds.
We do not need the nasty stuff and I am quite tired of it.
Thanks for addressing it.
Thank you
That’s sick, that people are still racist and continue to post on ANY Social media forums, with so much hatred. Which is why I only use this forum as my social media. There is so much MIS-INFORMATION on other Social media sites (my opinion of course). You have to weed out the bad stuff. Good idea Chuck, delaying those free-bees. Maybe add the feature that allows reviewing from those who are not contributing members, prior to posting. That way, us sponsors can read this early, and close it when done! Be Safe-Have a great day!
Chuck and the entire RV Newsletter staff,
I am SO sorry to have to read about the narrow minded, hateful conduct of some of your reader. I am not surprised. My wife and I experienced prejudice and hate during the nine years we were RVers. In our case it was not due to skin color. Unfortunately it had to do with being “liberals” of a certain religion. We found many of the people we came in contact with to be bigoted and VERY unaccepting of anyone not the same as them: close minded and hateful. Since we chose not to become narrow minded bigots too we eventually sold our RV and moved on. There is so little time we are all given in this life to waste it on such nonsense. I voluntarily subscribe to this newsletter because I enjoy Chuck and his staff’s style and content. To paraphrase a great American “we are not this kind of America or that kind of America. We are THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”. The sooner we start to embrace that concept the better off we’ll all be.
“we are not this kind of America or that kind of America. We are THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”. We are not Republican cities or Democrat cities, we are American cities.
I’m so saddened to hear this, Chuck. Still, the way we fight the hate is to continue pushing our “love“ out to the world – the world needs it. I’m hoping that these vile, hateful commenters are the minority not the majority. I will continue to model the way I’d like the world to be and I know you and Gail will, too – with love and respect for all people.
First, thanks for all that you and your staff do. Second, thanks for taking out the trash. The pervasive ignorance in this country is truly astounding and quite sad. Stay positive and hope that that we can still be around to see an end to it.
Thank you Chuck and team! The “Where are all the black RVers” article was eye opening for me. I can’t remember the last time I saw Black RVers in an RV Park, but you can be sure the next time I do, I will go out of my way to make them feel welcome.
I’m not sure what happens to people to make them so hateful. It seems to be especially bad in recent times. The last four years has been like a trip back to the worst parts of the sixties. What can we do to help these people understand just how hateful they really are?
“The last four years has been like a trip back to the worst parts of the sixties. ” Boy I’ll say. Let’s hope it’s over soon.
More like the last 12 years. And I don’t see much hope of it getting better anytime soon.
Actually it started 12 years ago but was kept out of the press. Nevertheless, it’s time for the racial divide to end. The USA is a diverse group that has no room for hate.
Chuck don’t get discouraged. It was a great article. I know to well of the hatred in this country. We have adopted 5 kids. All different races. The comments we get would rattle some people. But I always come back with some smart a## comment or remark to shut em down. I just keep telling the kids that people are dumb. We are one race. The human race. Keep up the good work. You and your staff do amazing work. Thanks
Thank you for taking in and giving a forever home to those babies.
Why can’t we all just get along!!!!! It amazes me that the older I become the more exposed to bigotry and hatred. Navigating through life’s obstacles can be difficult enough without adding unnecessary bitterness to it.
Your newsletter is informative and helpful. As a donor I thank you for all you do. Keep up the great work it is certainly appreciated by the intelligent majority.
So sorry about this. Made another contribution to show my support. This newsletter is amazing and informative.
Thanks to the entire staff for the continued ‘quest for quality’ in making this newsletter informing and most importantly enjoyable to read. There’s enough angst in the country 24/7 and this newsletter allows me to escape for a few minutes daily. I am an early riser so will miss the routine of reading the newsletter in the mornings but will continue to support you and your team!
Chuck- I realized that I hadn’t contributed for a while,
So I went ahead and did so.
I read RV travel every day and learn something new with every reading. Thanks for an excellent product.
I was about to write the same comment. I will be sending a contribution this morning!
Really sorry you got all that hate mail, Chuck. It was a great article, and WAY overdue. Keep on keeping on, and ignore the haters. It’s a sad fact of life that they’ve come out of their usual holes in the ground this last couple of years. Hopefully they’re about to get the comeuppance they roundly deserve.
Well said
I dont post on here very often but I am amazed by some of your comments. Everyone accepted that women’s version as the whole story but what was her family’s behavior that brought about other peoples response? Your best bet is shutting down the comments if you don’t want everyone’s opinion. And i have found that bigots and haters are on all sides.
Bigots and haters are on one side, decent people are on the other.
Bigots are on one side. Haters of bigots are on the other.
Keep it up! We need open and informed discussions about racism and other hard topics. It is OK to disagree…that can be a road to greater understanding. But we must be respectful and willing to listen! Thank you.
My sister and I were just discussing RV Travel newsletter last night. We are in the Eastern time zone . I was telling her about your feature on reviewing new RVs. She felt paying $5 a month was well worth the money for that information alone. Part of my morning routine is to read RVTravel with my coffee. There are a lot of unhappy crazy people in this world right now who have discarded civility completely. I am glad you are taking steps to stop polluting the RV world. I wish to thank your staff for their hard work and for bringing me a whiff of sunshine every morning for a lowly $5/month. I make my own coffee, I would rather give that $5 to you than a giant corporation.
Sorry, I don’t understand people anymore. We used to always help each other out, visit and even share meals together. I have been lucky in meeting many great people and race never came into question. If I need assistance they always jumped in to help and I did the same. Our kids played and hang out together and never had issues at all. Seems what is happening to the nation has come to the camping/rving community. I really hate to see this happen as always we were open to everyone.
The article was great and informative. Thanks for publishing.
if you make periodic donations are you on the free or voluntary subscriber list
Voluntary subscriber list.
Worked in Jackson Hole campground for about 14 years. Had some black campers and they were great campers. We’ve had terrible white campers, and their unattended kids and dogs, some who were asked to leave. Campers are campers and either are good people or not.
Chuck. Good job on your stories every week. My point is we all put our pants on the same way everyday!!!
Good morning:
I thought that it was a great article and couldn’t see any reason why someone would get upset about it. For the life of me I don’t understand the pervasive hatred in the world today. I do think that the annonimity of comment sections does encourage the keyboard warriors to spew their vitriol. I almost said keyboard clowns but I didn’t want to insult clowns. Kudos to you and your staff Chuck for all of your great publications. In the last fifteen years or so I’ve learned an immense amount from you. Please continue as many of us really look forward to receiving your newsletters. While it’s sad that you had to take this action I’m glad that you did and from a completely selfish perspective I still get to read the newsletter with my Saturday morning coffee. 👍 👍
I too could not understand why that article could raise any vitriol.
I stand with you in printing the article about the interracial couple. Wouldn’t it be nice if people of all races could enjoy camping and being outdoors without worry? Systemic Racism is real, we need to identify it and work to eliminate it.
I would respectfully suggest that you limit the comment section to those who have donated. It is a shame that folks cannot be respectful in their comments but your staff should not have to babysit what should be adult readers of this newsletter. Hate and vile language has never been appropriate regardless of who was spewing the words. If you remove the audience and attention, you will probably remove the haters too.
It is a disgrace what America has become over the last few years. It is time to vote the racism and hatred out of office and get America back to what we should be.
I agree with that BUT people need to have Jesus Christ into their life ,and this racisms would go because Jesus is all about love and unity. I know that for a fact . because Jesus will change your life and fill you with love for one another can I get an Amen on that ? Pastor Ernie
Jesus might, but religion is a different story.
Chuck, I don’t know why anyone KEEPS bringing up the past so much.This is not the 1950’s or 60’s. This country has come a long way and still has a way to go. Why can’t people just move on. Sometimes the past just adds fuel to a fire for no reason.Personaly I’m from the south and proud to be a part of this country and quite frankly tired of the past witch is the past being brought up all the time. I think this world would be a lot better off if people would quit worring about the past and focus on the future.
It happens because we have a president who wants to turn back the clock. I’m camped at Quartzsite and I see somebody flying a Confederate flag. WTH is that about?
I would also love to let the race issue rest in the past. But then I never get stopped for Driving While White, or get treated badly or have my life endangered by a cop. I never have menacing gestures made towards me, making me feel unwelcome in a public recreation facility. I didn’t used to mind the Stars and Bars flying, it’s part of history and there is nothing wrong with regional pride. But, now it’s seen as a red flag that says: we’re conservative, dislike anybody who’s not like us, and if you’re different, you’re not welcome here in ‘our’ campground. I’m sure you don’t mean it that way, but that’s how it comes across to many many people, and you can’t undo that.
When we all can act with respect towards one another then we can bury this tired issue for good, and I hope that day comes soon.
Those who forget the past are doomed to repeat it. Why would you wish to foster ignorance by forgetting the past?
I read the RV Travel Newsletter every Saturday and the RV Daily tips every weekday and I enjoy them both and feel like I almost always learn something new. I realized I hadn’t contributed in a while so I just did so. Keep up the great job and thanks for all you do!
Chuck and RV Travel Team,
I am a Afro American that loves Rving
we have met many wonderful people of all colors everywhere we have been.
I have always found most Rver’s to be Good Samaritans like we ought to be.
If you read the policy of Good Sam, FMCA and other rv clubs it states we should help each other?
We are One Nation Under God Indivisible with Liberty and Justice for all!
I encourage everyone to donate if you can to keep this wonderful publication going!
God Bless America!
Lately I have been questioning the “One Nation Under God” part. So sad
I have been questioning the “United” part
It is so nice to read something from someone with your kind heart. May God bless you and your family in future travels. Have a good day.
My family is behind you 100%. We pay what little we have to help you with this informative newsletter. Shame on others who are blinded. Everytime we meet new full-time RVers we let them know how valuable you and your staff are. Thank you for all you do for all of us.
Well said! I agree 110%!
Chuck, you used the right word “challenged”. It seems in my little world in this tumultuous world , a different point of view is taken as a challenge instead of a chance to see, maybe understand, but not required to agree, how other people see the world. I think it’s sad.
Traveler, it’s very sad. I have to work hard at not being chronically depressed over how so many people are so close-minded.
Unfortunate that you had to change your publishing schedule. I do however support your decision 100%. Hard to believe that we still have so many who choose to pre-judge based on skin color. All the best and keep up the good work.
Thanks, Dave.
In many ways, I am not really your demographic. We are weekend/vacation campers in a slide-in truck camper, ten years from retirement, happiest camping far out of sight or sound of the nearest neighbor and kind of snobs about that fact. And yet, I am a paid subscriber (and just donated again) because your are the *only* source of RV/camping news that makes any effort to be objective about the state of the industry, the state of the way of life. And you are damned near alone on the Internet in having the courage and convictions to insist that commentary remain civil. I applaud that. I cheer that. Heck, I’ll even *pay* for that.
Thank you, Scott. Your words mean a lot to us. — Chuck
Hi Chuck….It takes courage and commitment to publish articles that support the american dream. I am most thankful that your newsletter does exactly that. I have been a camper since I was single digit in age, now 77, and value this newsletters contribution to quality experiences. Thank You.
On a happy note “with a song from the past” sure made my day. Its great to start your day with happy thoughts & tons of laughter! The trouble is I remember hearing that song on my Dad’s ’49 Dodge radio, I was 12 then in 1956!
Thank you
Snoopy
Chuck, I’m a paid subscriber of the publication. I am a little bit taken back by the actions taken by so many people and want you to know that I support your values and your position! Please let us know whatever we can do to help and we will always support you,your staff and the publication! Godspeed!
Thanks, Howard. We appreciate your kind words.
It completely and totally boggles my mind that your newsletter would continue to be targeted with so much hate mail about inter-racial RVers….or any other matter. Other RV groups have this year published numerous articles about their inter-racial, their LGBQ and ALL of their members, and they’ve continued to do so without a word of receiving hate mail. I’m disappointed that hate mail remains an issue for you guys. I thought that you had committed to a wise and fair decision a few months ago to simply IMMEDIATELY bar, block and unsubscribe ALL future haters. That is a HIGHLY appropriate stance IMO. If applied diligently would it not eventually excise the cancer?
Well, I hate to disabuse your notion of “mixed” marriage with facts but, assuming you are not marrying outside of your species, the genes of every human on Earth are 99.9% the SAME. Although, if you shave a chimp, you would find it has light pigmentation. They don’t have a history of dressing up in sheets and pointy white hats hanging their “darker” skin brethren though.
I too welcome your changes. If this happened just over a simple article, can you imagine what most Black people have happen to them in an actual campsite. I have met a lot of people of different nationalities and have found most of the miss behaved people have been causation. and AMERICAN Somewhere all of our behavior needs to change and be more respectful of each other. Keep up the good work. I will donate just on this alone
Wanted to read the article on the deer but it changed to an empty page.
Ditto!
This happened to me but when I tried (immediately) for the second time, it worked.
Sorry, Marilyn. It’s been fixed. —Diane at RVtravel.com
BTW, you share 99.0% of the same genes a chimp has…
Chuck- Thank you for standing up for decency. We have along struggle ahead to heal this country. We were never perfect and now there is much ground to be regained. Every one of us must look inside and act according to the ideals we profess to hold as Americans.
Hi Chuck. Thank you for bringing this situation to our attention. It’s sad to see what has become of our country. Sad that some people feel it necessary to judge someone because of their skin color or nationality. It just sickens me. My wife and I appreciate everything you and your staff do. Please keep up the great work! Know that there are many who read this newsletter that feel the same as we do.
Find it unbelievable that in today’s times people are still so prejudiced with hate in their heart. I thought the article written by the family of mixed race was thoughtful. It sure made me think as I reflected that we don’t see diversity in camping. I really hadn’t given that much thought before. Thank you for publishing the article as it was very thought-provoking and sad on so many levels. We only hope to see more diversity in the future. I will be on the lookout for it. Thanks for all your insightful articles I have been subscribing for many years and cannot wait first thing in the morning to see what you have lined up for us thank you
You can’t help yourself? flagged
Good morning Chuck. I really enjoy reading some of your comments but this morning it made my heart hurt, to know they’re so many nasty and racist people in this world still.It’s just wrong. How can anyone live in peace and hope for the world when there is so much hate. I just don’t understand it,and I’m from the south.While I’m not a paid subscriber I do use your link to Amazon and hope it helps. And I stand behind you completely. As long as we put up with this crap it’ll keep happening.Good job to you and your staff. And I hope Mrs. Dixon knows they are a lot more good people that wish them their best for future travels. Have a good day.
I re-read “Where are all the Black RVers” after the firestorm written about in your editorial. I agree there is no place for ugly comments and you have to do something about it. That said, I believe people are voicing their pent up frustrations, although inarticulately or nastily, with what has been a virtually one-sided depiction, in the media, universities, corporations, professional sports and activist organizations, of Whites as privileged and racist. Further, that there are statistically fewer Blacks in various positions is de facto proof of “systemic” racism, other reasons dismissed. This has been going on for quite some time, but has been particularly vicious the past few years. A lot of people are fed up, and this strategy is only increasing racial discord. Additionally, I am curious about your association of the ugly comments with people who use your free newsletter. A subtle calling out of “deplorables” perhaps? Whatever, another illustration of the above.
I just clicked on the “+” and the number went from “0” to “-1”. What’s that all about?
I just clicked on the “+” and it stayed at “-1.”
Same result here. There’s obvious tinkering going on. It’s amazing how free speech for those on the left only applies if you’re in full agreement with them.
The change is showing all the clicks that people have made in the time since you opened the page.
I hope your publishing delay works. It sounds like the only solution because I don’t know how you’d predict when an article might produce such a backlash. It shouldn’t have been that one which made you think but was hardly controversial. I hope the reaction doesn’t deter anyone from RVing. You guys do a great job. I’m a long time reader and this reminds me it must be time to chip in. Thanks for all the hard work.
Chuck, I applaud you and your staff for all the good work you do. Kudos to you!!! (I’m a paid subscriber, by the way, but I have been a fan of your publications since the early days.) I’m dismayed but not surprised at all the hateful comments about Mrs. Dixon’s very thoughtful article. Stephen Durrett’s comment about our being a nation “under God” brings me to say that we really aren’t under God anymore; we have kicked Him out of our lives and now we’re paying the price. If we were to bring Him back into our lives and actually live according to His commands, there would not be all this hatred. We would actually need only one law: Treat others as you want them to treat you.
Chuck, I am truly sorry to hear about the nasty comments. I enjoy reading your articles and appreciate the efforts of your staff and you to provide information and articles that we can learn from. I am a paid subscriber and look forward to continuing to see your publication each week.
I no longer participate in any form of social media as I have found it to be primarily a sewer with the biggest chunks rising to the top. I’m sorry, but not terribly surprised, to learn that some of that sewage has leaked into your fine publication as well. I certainly support your actions and wish you well in your ‘plumbing’ efforts.
I think once the U.S. is rid of a hateful President, hatefulness may turn more to kindness. It does not cost anything to be kind. Think about it.
Really disappointed to see political posts here.
Boy I hear that.
It makes me sad that there were so many hurtful comments. I think America needs to quit hiding behind their keyboards and start practicing the golden rule. Hopefully a new wave of kindness might take over in January.
I am so discouraged by the sheer hatefulness that would prompt anyone to violently object to Nanci Dixon’s article. People who spread hate should be removed from your email list.
Chuck – Please don’t bow to the pressure and sensor yourself or your newsletter.
It is your openness and honesty that are the foundation and strength of this newsletter.
Chuck and RV Travel Newsletter Team: I too am saddened by the negative responses you’ve received about the recent article, and for that matter all the negative, spiteful, ignorant comments you’ve been forced to read in recent times. I am a paid subscriber now but started out as a moocher for a while :-). I support your efforts to maintain civility and really appreciate your publications. Keep up the good work!
Dear Chuck and Staff,
We are pulling for you! Your hurt and discouragement are real and can’t totally be avoided, but hopefully focusing on the support of the great majority of your readers will bring you and yours the consolation and fighting spirit that will keep you soldiering on!
Mike
Chuck…. You and your staff do an excellent job. Keep up the good work.
As for my wife and I, we applaud your publishing articles that show “the other side of the coin”. When I read that article last week I thought to myself “oh boy, here comes the hate mail”. Then I told myself. “ no, every one will be cool with it. “ Sadly I was right the first time.
I hope this doesn’t hinder further discussion on this and other controversial topics. It’s been a while, and we can’t afford much, but we are going to send some money your way today. Keep up the great work you and your staff are doing.
Dear All
I am so sorry that you had to experience the depravity that we in USA have to live with. I and my wife are paying members and fail to understand the lack of eduction and sincerity so many people live with.
What occurred based upon the great article is disgusting.
Thanks for all you do everyday to keep us all informed. We live the newsletters and look forward to reading them every day.
Keep up the GREAT work you and your entire staff are doing.
Thanks
I still HAVE that frying saucer song “Outer Space Looters”. I don’t have a 45 player, but I have the record . . .
I think the discussion on race is long overdue. I appreciated seeing it. I love your newsletter. Lots of good information. Keep up the good work. I think I’m a contributor but if not let me know.
So sad, to see so much vicious commentary on the “black” article. Does, however, show how divided our nation is. Again, sad. We are rapidly approaching no longer being a “united” states. Last election showed that. This one? Scary to contemplate.
It’s so sad that the world has come to the place that we can’t have a civil discussion of our differences of opinions. I spent 30 years in the military defending people’s rights to have their own opinions and sometimes it seems as if was for nothing.
keep up the good work and don’t let the haters prevent you from publishing your stories because if you stop publishing then they have won.
I am SHOCKED and sickened with this knowledge that you received ugly comments from people about the Black RV’ers. I, in fact, was totally interested in the question and wondered myself. I enjoyed the article. Some years back — I realized that I had naively been thinking that most people think the way I do — and I wonder how I could have been so ignorant for so long. Your editorial comments just prove to me I wasn’t paying attention. I’m so sorry you’ve had to experience such ugliness but so pleased that you’ll continue to carry on publishing with your head held high.
THANK YOU SO MUCH for that trip down Memory Lane — I SO ENJOYED IT — I’ll listen to it a few times for sure.
Chuck
Best way I can respond to the hate email – I’ve sent, again, another donation. Keep on writing!
First come first served sites at National Parks aren’t what you think. All available sites were reserved during the middle of last week at Shenandoah National Park, except for those first come first served sites. Since there were so many and it was the middle of the week we planned to get there just past noon and felt confident one would be available. We were surprised they were all taken. I suspect, since the the rate is so low, folks arrive during the week to set up, and go back home to return for the weekend. I don’t know if this was true because we couldn’t get a site, but I have witnessed this before when we have been at public campgrounds.
I totally agree, Eric, about the setting up then returning home to return for the weekend. It should be required that someone be with the MH or trailer, not at all times but at least at night
It is kind of a hit or miss thing. Some state parks parks prohibit “homesteading,” even if it’s paid for…others don’t give a fig. National parks should have a nation-wide “no homesteading” policy on FCFS sites, at least. At a minimum, the site should be occupied during the evening and overnight. Not a hard thing for camp hosts and rangers to keep track.
Chuck, Gail, and the rest of your staff,
Today when I read this newsletter I did two things.
1. I reread the referenced article again.
2. I donated again.
We do not need haters.
Nuff said.
Marc
I feel like all others have said, your news letter is the best and very informative. i have a 2 1/2 inch binder i use to place article in I can use later if needed. like the one I copied today regarding what size of compressor to buy. I have looked back many times to find articles on repairing my RV.
There has not been an issue that didn’t have something I might need later.
Chuck and your Staff, I appreciate your work and PLEASE continue. it has been many years since I found your publications. Keep it up.
You do a great job! I am so sorry you have to deal with the mean-spirited comments from intolerant people. Thank you for taking actions to shield the rat of us from their hateful energy.
I think you might find (if there was a way of telling) that it’s the same (or many of them) people that leave the campgrounds in total disarray when they leave and have the loud parties and leave their outside lights on all night. This is a new camping group, Chuck, and they aren’t all nice!
I’ll join the many who state their disappointment at the negative comments. I can only imagine the angst of you and your staff.
Anyhow, I say now as I’ve said before: keep plowing, don’t give up. We may not be there to shake your hand but we are here following you as you shove thru this life. You and your faithful staff are a gift to us all and I do appreciate your efforts.
And I’ll join others who have said: I’ll show’im, I’ll just donate more $.
Dear Chuck and staff, I am so sorry to hear about the bigoted and negative comments. the article was thoughtful and spot-on and I appreciated it. We all need to be friendlier and realize that we all share the same world and we all breathe the same air. thank you and remember that the majority of your readers are sane people
Dear Chuck Woodbury & Staff,
Understand your frustration with what happened, post publishing the Nanci Dixon’s article . For eight years I was the editor of a monthly car club magazine, and this type of nasty response happened (online) to us as well.
Please don’t let yourself or staff get down. The online hatters seem to be far more caustic today than they were even 10 years ago. I am a continued paid subscriber, and thank you for publishing the newsletter.
Chuck,
I’ve enjoyed your free publication for the past few months and finally decided a couple weeks ago to gladly contribute financially to support you and your staff. I will diffenantly increase my support in the near future. If these negative people don’t like what’s in your publication…then they should stop reading it. You’ll do just fine without them and they can go read something else…
The article was very informative to me and I appreciated it greatly!
Chuck and crew!
I am saddened to hear that you and your staff have come under attack by those who send hateful mail and say hurtful things to you and others. I have always enjoyed reading (when I can) the articles written in the newsletter, picking and choosing those I am most interested in. Although I am not able to be an RV’er, I feel like a part of the amazing people who make RV’ing great and worthwhile. To me it’s a free road trip with all of the experiences included!
There is NO place for negativity in the “camping world” as it is an escape from the daily humdrum and worry the inhabitants experience. I, for one, appreciate the enormous efforts that are put in to generating your newsletter! Ignore the “hate” and realize there are people who appreciate all that you do!
With that, I will be donating again to your efforts and the great publication that you make!
Scott H
Chuck, I’ve been reading your News Letters since 2009 when I lived full time in my ’88 Dolphin 31footer, and ‘never’ read a ‘bad’ article. Times have really changed and I/we can see it everyday in peoples attitudes all around us especially in the media who feeds this garbage thru the internet and airwaves. I ‘still’ like your editions and you have my total support…unlike those who get it ‘free’ and ‘still’ complain ~ I will be donating more often, now. Hang in there! “Nothing Grows Where Boneheads Go”. This from a Tex/Mex Tejano/Chicano RV’er! Viva el Camino!
I’m sad but not surprised to read about the hateful comments and emails to Ms. Dixon’s article from last week. I get even more saddened when sites such as this feel pushed to make changes in response to that garbage. To me, that only emboldens those parasites. I watch this happen time and time again. Facebook moderators, online newsletters, blogs, vlogs, etc. who have to spend all their time trying to run interference, to soothe hurt feelings, multiple daily reminders about what posts are acceptable and what are not, constantly changing the rules until the group no longer resembles it’s original form, and many unfortunately closing because these angry hateful people do not and will not stop. They thrive on response. Any response. I hope you will not get caught in that trap. The only response other than blocking/banning those who cross the line, is no response at all. Let their hatred consume only them. Stay focused on your original mission, values, and goals.
Such responses from ungrateful , bigoted readers have encouraged me to send another donation to help fund your fine publication. I fully support your efforts to provide RVers a comprehensive and very useful news letter. Keep up the good work!!!!!!!
Love your newsletter. It is most unfortunate that we live in these times where people feel the need to publicly express their bigotry, intolerance and hate and then expect that others should agree with them. I applaud your response and your efforts to defeat these outrageous people. As many of the commenters have noted, I am also a contributor and will continue to support your hard work. Maybe some good from this will be the increased revenue from your supporters. Keep up the great work.
When I was finally able to read Mrs. Dixon’s essay this past week I was horrified that comments were turned off because of hate comments. I do hope that the Dixon’s were not able to read any of those hateful comments, and that they are welcomed by the vast majority of the RVing community. Hopefully she’ll share more on their travels and the obstacles they face. Finally, thank you Chuck for continuing to keep this a safe place for RVers’ It’s why I have been a long time reader and supporter!
Stereotyping and prejudice are extremely bigoted and racist. Being from the South and more specifically from Mississippi I take offense at being stereotyped by this author.
Racism works both ways.