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RV Lifestyle Seminars June 23, 24 & 25, 2007 24 & 25
Seminar Topics Access the Internet while RVing Seminars Access the Internet while RVing This seminar gives an overview of the various technologies for accessing the Internet. This would cover things like Wi-Fi in campgrounds and coffee shops, the Blackberry, cellular technologies for data (GPRS, EDGE, 1xRTT, EV-DO), plain old dialup, and even things like finding Internet cafés and libraries. This class also deals with some of the issues of internet security. By: Allan Alton Adventures in World Travel Join author/ travel writer on a world adventure as she works archaeological digs in England, travels the back roads of Turkey and drives from Florida to Alaska solo. Leave notepaper and pens in your camper. Just sit back and enjoy.
Appliance Maintenance
Part I (oven and furnace) This session identifies the operation sequence for ovens and furnaces. It will
help you identify potential problems and provide maintenance tips. If your
appliance should fail what can you do to assist the technician diagnose the
problem as quickly as possible? This is not designed as a course to learn how to
repair your appliances. Appliance
Maintenance Part II (water heater and fridge) This session identifies the operation sequence for water heaters and fridges. It
will help you identify potential problems and provide maintenance tips. If your
appliance should fail what can you do to assist the technician diagnose the
problem as quickly as possible? This is not designed as a course to learn how to
repair your appliances. Batteries
The battery is probably the least understood but most overworked component of
our recreation vehicle. This session will provide you with information and tips
that will help you to understand, maintain and select batteries that will
provide the maximum battery life in your RV. Buying by Design This seminar will be a discussion of the pros and cons of the latest and greatest options and trends in the RV market. What's going to best suit your needs? What criteria do you want to consider before selecting a manufacturer? Will that be a dealership purchase or a private sale?" By: Peggi McDonald Canadian
Snowbird Association Who we are and what do we do? CSA is national non-profit
advocacy organization; dedicated to actively defending and improving the rights
and privileges of travelling Canadians. Our most recent work was with the
Federal Election helping absentee Canadians to get to vote (this is a first in
Canada). We have also just completed "The Canadian Travelers' Report Card"
which rates the Federal and Provincial Governments Health Coverage for frequent
travelers. Find out more about this association. Cooking on the Road Join “The Opinionated Cook” (Joan Taylor’s column appearing on www.rversonline.org) for kitchen equipment, storage, and cooking tips for preparing easy on-the-road RV meals. Recipes and a fun time included! Diesel
Vehicle Maintenance This session will discuss the maintenance that is particular to a diesel
vehicle. What maintenance is required and how often is it required are just a
few of the questions that will be answered. Digital Camera’s
& How to get the Best Pictures Are you thinking about buying a digital camera? This course will help you to
identify your requirements. Find models in your price range and understand their
features. Find out how to cut through the technical jargon. Also helping you to
understand the art of composition and taking better & more creative travel and
family photos. Learn what a zoom camera can offer and how you can transfer
photos onto your computer. Electrical Tips
The RV electrical system is the heart of most of our systems. What can you do to
prevent most electrical nuisance problems? This course will provide you with
tips and explain system expectations to help prevent you from having problems. Extend Travel for Part-time RVersWhat you need to know to get the most enjoyment out of RVing? Whether you head out for a few weeks, a few months or longer, this seminar is for you. The convenience of banking - on-line or by telephone - using debit cards versus traveler cheques - staying in touch with those at home - as well as how to keep on top of the mail, email - out of country medical insurance and more. Highlights to ensure your home remains safe and in tact while you are away is also included. This seminar also offers an overview of personal safety during your time on the move. Travel to the USA, and Return to Canada information is added to the mix. Find the Latest in RV
Accessories and Gadgets The RV industry is always changing. Find out what is new in accessories and
gadgets. There will be items that you cannot live without and others that you
will not believe. Generator Servicing
This seminar will answer questions on how to extend the life of your generator.
Learn tips on how to service and maintain your generator for peak efficiency. GPS Navigation
for the RVers.What is GPS? Is GPS a good tool for an Rver and what types
and systems are available and compatable with the RV lifestyle? Bob will share
his research on what is available. How and Why to Prepare an RV for Storage The importance of storage preparation is one of the most commonly overlooked aspects of RV ownership. Many owners do not realize that their RV investment often deteriorates as quickly in storage as it does in use. Learn “tips and tricks” to avoid costly “post storage” headaches and repair bills, by participating in this interactive presentation. How to Buy, Sell and
Responsibly Own an RV
This session will give you lots of ideas and tips on both buying or selling an
RV. Price definitely does enter into the picture, but it is probably only a very
small portion of the issue. Other items that will affect your purchase are how
long will I own the RV, financing variables, insurance variables, cost of fuel,
cost of service etc. What else should I be considering or if selling how can I
maximize my selling price. How to Extend the Life of your RV's Exterior Discover the “tips and tricks” of preventative maintenance
for the exterior of your RV. Learn how to identify the early warning signs of
water leaks, roof deterioration, de-lamination and other potentially disastrous
symptoms, which could cause major structural problems and lead to excessive
repair bills. This session will focus on prevention and troubleshooting
techniques. How to Get the Most into the Least Amount of Space This seminar will help you discover many little known, but still available storage places, plus learn great tips on the best utilization of space. Peggi suggests what you need to take and what you can do without along with a selection of double duty items. How do you keep items secure during transit? Storage, weight and need will be some of the main considerations. The value of downsizing annually is also enlarged upon. This is a 'show and tell' presentation. How to "Insure" a Safe and Happy RV Holiday Discover what is the difference between gov’t and private insurance, between buying from a broker and a company or a bank? What are the types of RV policies available in insurance and which policy is best for you? Get questions answered about insurance claims, and find out what to look for in an RV insurance provider? Do you need answers about travel medical insurance or insurance for travel to Mexico? This class will also touch on life insurance. Ins and Outs of
Fulltiming This sixteen-year solo full-time RVer gives the straight scoop on what
it is like living life on the road on a daily basis, along with common sense
tips. She’ll discuss leaving the grandchildren, relationships, making new
friends, communications, volunteering, vehicle breakdowns, vehicle TLC,
campgrounds, boondocking, safety,and other “stuff” you need to know. This is a
basic learning-to-RV class given humorously and in very personal terms. Introduction to the Diversity That is Florida This presentation will provide you with the tools to plan a holiday to either Alaska, Yukon or the N.W.T’s.utilizing numerous visual aids, lecture and group discussion. The material covered is based on our extensive first hand experience leading caravans through these unique and interesting regions. The information covered will allow you to experience all these regions have to offer, and help to ensure this will be a trip of a lifetime.By: Duane & Lynda Pilson Inverters What is an inverter and how does it work? Why are inverters becoming more common
in RV's. This session will answer these questions and more on while providing
tips on sizing, maintenance and use. Maintaining Healthy Tanks This session gets the new RVers started with proper basic dumping procedures and habits. The session deals with the structure and operation of black and grey tanks, correct dumping procedures, dumping and flushing equipment choices, good and bad tank treatments and general tank maintenance tips for trouble-free operation. It will include suggested web-sites for more information and also some sites that offer tank dumping locations, parts and supplies. Membership RV Parks and Discount Camping Clubs This seminar will deal with the advantages and disadvantages of joining a membership RV park and/or a discount camping club, things to think about before buying, and how to decide which membership is right for you. Mexico - Baja Region This session will give you some of the history and culture of the Baja. You will find out information on the attitude of the people and what yours should be. Gillian has information on vehicle documents, driving conditions, insurance, money, and US border crossing. There will be discussions on the sights, camping, costs and anything else that you can think of. Although this is Baja specific she has information on the mainland as well By: Gillian Herbert Motorhome Dinghy Towing Equipment This is a course designed primarily for those who are not yet dinghy towing to assist them in choosing equipment that will best meet their needs. Some discussion of trailers and dollies is included, but the primary focus is on tow bars, mounting systems, and towing system accessories. Topics include: car trailer, tow dolly, and tow bar advantages and disadvantages, automatic transmissions, and towing tips. (It is recommended that you take this class before attending—Motorhome Towing Tips and Fundamentals ) Motorhome Towing Tips and Fundamentals Blue Ox presents a hands-on seminar designed to further educate RVers on the fundamentals of towing a car, as well as the process of hooking and unhooking from their RVs. This will be a hands-on session with questions and answers as you go. (It is recommended that you attend—Motorhome Dinghy Towing, before this class.) Motorhome & Dinghy Braking This is a course for those using or planning to use tow bars to tow a car behind their motor home. It includes safety tips, suggestions for equipment maintenance, and safety equipment choices. Specific focus is given to questions on towed vehicle braking, legal requirements, and a discussion regarding the various choices in braking systems. Personal Safety
How you can be safe and secure and still RELAXED? This session will discuss RV
security while occupying your RV and while away from it as well as security of
your personal items, such as where not to stow them. Other topics will be what
you should know about the area where you are overnighting and how to find the
information you need. Ever wondered what to watch for as far as hitchhikers and
transients?
Propane (Properties &
Safety) Part 1
This session will provide safety related information regarding the handling and
use of propane. Obtain the information that everyone using propane needs to
ensure the safety of themselves and of others. Be comfortable that propane is
provided to you in a safe manner.
Propane (Systems &
Components) Part 2
This session will provide you with information as to the operation of your
propane system. It will discuss life expectancy of components such as
regulators, hoses, etc. Tips for safe operation of your propane system will be
provided. It is recommended that Propane Part I be a prerequisite to this
program. RV Driveline Maintenance & Service
What is required for scheduled maintenance on the RV driveline, regardless of
whether a motorhome or a tow vehicle. What servicing can you do and what needs
to be serviced by a mechanic. RV Driving Tips
This session will provide you will tips that will help you reach your
destination and get parked in safety. We will provide you with information that
you need to know to assist you in driving your RV on the highways. It is
recommended for both driver and passenger. Shopping For
a Tow Vehicle Here is help in deciding what you may require for a tow vehicle - gas versus
diesel, two-wheel drive versus four-wheel drive, pick-up versus sports utility,
and light duty versus medium duty. This will be in the form of a discussion and
will cover such things as GVWR, axle ratios, engine size, etc. Solar Panels
Solar panels are becoming a popular option. How do they work, and can I use them
to make my unit self contained? This session will provide answers to these and
other questions while give tips on sizing, maintenance and use.
Trailer Suspension, Brakes and Bearings This session will be a guide to the different types of trailer suspensions and
components. It will provide answers to the care and maintenance of suspension
systems, brakes and bearings. It will also include discussions regarding the
different types of brake controllers and adjustments.
Travel Writing Do you like to keep a journal of your travels but not sure how to do it or what to do with it? Learn the basics of writing (travel, nostalgia, etc) with award-winning travel writer. Bring your writing paper, pens and your imagination. Water Quality
and RVing This seminar will address methods and technologies available to purify drinking
water that originates from an untreated source (lake, stream, well, etc.)
Treatment for recreational vehicle's water will be discussed looking at a
variety of methods including: chlorination, fluoridation, filtration, iodinated
resin, ozonation, distillation, reverse osmosis and UV radiation. Water Works
Learn about your water system from the fresh water tank to the toilet. Take a
trip down your water lines and find out how the parts work to supply you and
your RV with water. Learn the maintenance that you should be providing for your
water system. What to Look
for in Tires
What does the information on a tire mean and what do you need to know about the
tires for your recreation vehicle? What do your tires require to ensure maximum
life and safety? Answers to these questions and more. Why Winter in South Texas? Are you ready for a new Snowbird roost? How about a Winter Texan Welcome? This seminar will introduce you to wintering in South Texas with particular emphasis on the Rio Grande Valley. Information will be provided on availability of RV parks, relative costs, and the many attractions of the area. Instructors Allan Alton has a BSc in Computer Science and over 24 yeas of Information Technology Experience. He has spent the last 12 years working in the field of computer networks including keeping up to date with wireless data technologies. He also has been an avid RVer. Bob & Melanie Ashton have enjoyed 22+ years of winter camping. Over that time period they have used various types of RV's in all winter conditions and using everything from no-service parks to full-service parks. They have spent countless hours of research into buying the “perfect” RV for themselves. Dave Blanchette started out as an apprentice auto mechanic and then went into battery manufacturing sales and design. He has spent 20+ years working with battery and DC electrical applications. His experience goes from batteries for watches and hearing aids to submarines, electric cars and home systems. Dave has a wide knowledge of the latest in battery manufacturing technologies. His operation, National Battery Ltd. currently handles approximately 6000 types of batteries. Bernie Bloomfield is a red-seal journeyman automotive technician. He is an instructor in the automotive technician programs at OC. His specialties are tune-up and driveability problems. Joei Carlton Hossack is a solo, full-time RVer. She has been on the road in an RV since 1989 and RVing solo since the death of her husband in June of 1992. She travels and shares her knowledge with others through seminars and public speaking events and the 6 books she has written. Al Cohoe is an Alta, BC and US certified RV Technician. He started working for a RV manufacturer in 1972. For the past 36 years Al has worked on most aspects of manufacturing and repairs of RVs. For 19 of those years he has worked for Okanagan College, delivering and implementing RV Service Technician Training. He has been doing presentations to RV Owners for the past 10 years throughout USA and Canada. Art Dack is a red-seal journeyman RV Service Technician and has been involved in the development of the apprenticeship training in Alberta for many years. He has owned Panorama RV service in Edmonton for 15 years, where they specialized in structural and appliance repairs. Jerry & Carol Dale…were fulltimers for 14 years and have traveled most of the U.S. and Canada; they have been towing four wheels down for over 30 years. For many years, Dale has been involved in the RV industry and holds patents for RV products he has designed and built. He is a representative, trainer and seminar presenter for Blue Ox Towing Products at RV rallies, dealers and other RV gatherings. He has been a Life on Wheels instructor for 7 years. Al Dadswell is the president of RV Direct Insurance. He has been RVing since he bought his first unit at age 19 and has owned and operated every type of RV since. He has worked with many educational facilities and has many professional insurance certifications. Al has made both RVing and RV Insurance his passion for many years and is sure to help you understand the complexities and “tricks of the industry” to help you make “insure” that you have a safe and happy RV experience! Dan Dearborn is the Photo Electronics Manager at London Drugs in Kelowna. He has over 14 years of experience in selling and handling digital cameras. Randy Engman is the chair of water quality technology department of OUC. He is involved in all facets of water quality and at present he specializes in applications of ultra-filtration membrane assisted activated sludge reactors to industrial wastewater. Bob Gummersall has 40 plus year of RVing experience and has developed a training program for school bus driver. He has a wealth of knowledge on driving tips. He is a retired engineer loves to promote the industry and lifestyle and his knowledge of it. Gillian Herbert worked and lived in Mexico from 1963 for a total of 25 years and in Cabo San Lucas, La Paz and Mulege on the Baja for 15 of those years. Gillian has driven Highway 1 more than 50 times since 1973 when the 1000 mile long road opened. She pioneered tours and opened the first Travel Agency in Cabo San Lucas in 1978. Since retiring, RVing and winter living in Mexico has been her modus operandi. RV Parks and Boondocking on the spectacular beaches, trips and tours and off road exploring are her daily bread. Gillian travels alone with her young Rotti "Dolly", she knows the Baja and Mexican culture, all the do's and don'ts, like the back of her hand. Jim Ingram is a red-seal journeyman RV technician and has been working in the RV industry since 1979 in all aspects of the trade. Jim has owned his own service business and is currently an instructor in the RV Service technician program at OC. Jon Itterman is a red-seal journeyman RV technician and has been working in the RV industry since 1990. He works as a part-time instructor for Okanagan College and the remainder of the time in industry. Harold Lunner is the owner of Nova Industry Resources Ltd. and has been working with alternate energy industry for over 18 years. His business is renewable energy products, specializing in turnkey electric systems, utilizing the sun, wind and water. John and Peggi McDonald are RV Lifestyle Consultants with 22 years of fulltiming experience. This twosome moves frequently and has no 'stick' home. Peggi’s printed book 'RV Living in the 21st Century; the Essential Reference Book for ALL RVers' is the sequel to her first book 'Spirit of the Open Road'. Recently she added two e-books to the mix. 'RV Packing Tips, RV Life Lessons plus Easy Living Hints and 'RV Travel to Canada’. Jim Sherb is the Director Western Canada of the Canadian Snowbird Association. This is his second term of two years in this position. As he winters in Indio, Cal he also works the western states. He has traveled to the states every winter since 1999; before that he has traveled to 32 countries around the world. Jim is a 20 year member of toastmasters and an independent trainer/facilitator. Joan Taylor is a retired teacher and long-time RVer who has spent several years traveling doing “on-site” family history research. Joan served as Education Coordinator with the Almaden Senior Net Computer Learning Center in San Jose, California; she has written several computer-related courses and currently teaches computer and Internet skills for “senior” students. Joan also enjoys on-the-road cooking – her column, “The Opinionated Cook”, appears on the RVers Online web site – and showing RVers how to find and use interesting and useful RV-related web sites! Rex and Dania Vogel are Canadian Snowbirds who have wintered in Southern California, Arizona, Texas, and Florida. They have served as Alberta Directors of the Newmar Kountry Klub (NKK) and have hosted the Calgary Stampede and Canadian Rockies Caravan for the NKK. Rex is a regular contributor to RV Times.
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