2015 Quarter Two 1

Featured Highlights

10Quarterly Safety TipSafety Reporter Dave Gray reminds us to become familiar with our coach’s “instructions.”

16Heartland Debuts New Torque Extreme Lite Toy HaulerToy hauler General Manager AJ Jones dishes the scoop on a new line of travel trailers.

24Traveling with PetsHeartland Owner Rebecca Dickey shares the stories behind their two talented dogs and fish.

12Combo Washer Dryer InstallationOwner Dennis Haas shows his step-by-step install in the front closet of his Cyclone.

8Custom Cyclone ExteriorOwner Christopher Whitford wanted his new coach to match his tow vehicle. See the stunning results.

OWNERS CLUB

OWNERS CLUB

Heartland Highlights

Volume VI Number II

From the VP of Sales

Greetings from the Heartland Corporate Office!

The Heartland sales team just finished the RV retail show season—what a blur! The 3 months flew by and we had great success across the United States and Canada. The Heartland brands continue to stay strong and are retailing at an excellent pace. Highlights of the show season were the new LM365 along with the Bighorn. Heartland also had tremendous success with all of our travel trailer product lines —that segment of the market is really hot right now. I greatly appreciate all of the Club support provided throughout the show season—it was amazing for me to see so many Club Members at the shows this year. You guys truly make a difference!

Heartland recently launched an all new website with the focus of compatibility with mobile devices. This website has more floorplan pictures which is a big initiative for us in 2015. Our marketing team plans to have over 150 floorplan photo galleries done within the year which is up over 50% from 2014. Retail customers have requested more photos on the website and we will deliver. Check out

the new website when you get an opportunity and please feel free to give us your feedback on this Forum thread. Give it a try from your mobile devices as well.

Coley Brady,Vice President of Sales

“Heartland recently launched an all new

website with the focus of compatibility with

mobile devices.”The 2016 model year products are now rolling off the production lines. One of the more exciting features for 2016 models is that every Cyclone and Road Warrior unit has Load Range G tires. Additionally, Cyclone and Road Warrior now come standard with the 18 cubic foot gas absorption Norcold (2-way) refrigerator (a residential refer is optional). The Big Country and Bighorn products also come with the 18 cubic foot Norcold standard in 2016 models (a residential refer is optional). At Heartland, we continue to listen to our customers and improve the product daily.

The 2015 North American Heartland Owners Rally in Goshen is quickly approaching and the team at Heartland is thrilled to have so many of you in attendance. We look forward to your factory visit on Saturday, June 20 and a Heartland service team will be available during the Rally week at the campground. Fun times!

See VP OF SALES, continued on page 9

Heartland Highlights

2 2015 Quarter Two

Table of Contents

Heartland Highlights

Published quarterly for the owners of Heartland products.

All Heartland RV logos and graphics are used with the expressed permission of

Heartland RVs.

Duplication and printing for personal use only and not for distribution.

All content submissions shall be sent to the editorial staff at the following address

newsletter@heartlandowners.org

Editor Erika Dorsey

editor@heartlandowners.org

President Jim Beletti

president@heartlandowners.org

Manager Julie Hancock

club@heartlandowners.org

Content Submission Deadlines

Q-1 January 1stQ-2 April 1stQ-3 July 1stQ-4 October 1st

Any comments or suggestions related to this publication should be addressed tonewsletter@heartlandowners.org

IN THIS ISSUE

From the VP of Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1Coley Brady, VP of Sales, Heartland RVs

Owners Club Membership & Forum Statistics . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

From the Club President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5Jim Beletti, Club President

Club Manager’s Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Julie Hancock, Club Manager

Creating a Custom Cyclone Exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Christopher Whitford, Owner

Quarterly Safety Tip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Dave Gray, Safety Reporter

Combo Washer Dryer Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Dennis Haas, Owner

Heartland Debuts Torque Extreme Lite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

The All New Elkridge 39MBHS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Gray Tank Modification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Jeremy Ginn, Owner

Traveling With Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24Rebecca Dickey, Owner

Heartland Gateway Fiver Offers Side Patio Area . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Moderator Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Upcoming Rallies at a Glance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Rally Wrap-Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Southeast Region Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34Dave Yocum, Director

Northeast Region Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Jamie & Ginger Walker, Directors

South Central Region Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Jay & Stella Coffman, Directors

Canadian Region Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36Wayne & Gayle Wilson, Directors

North Central Region Report. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37Dan & Karen Halvorsen, Directors

Rally Potluck Recipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42Ann Mayer, Rally Recipe Reporter

On the front page:Photo collage by Heartland RVs, featured

on the new Heartland website.

Heartland Highlights

2015 Quarter Two 3

Owners Club and Forum Statistics

CANADA

Alberta 27

Ontario 68

Quebec 6

Saskatchewan 5

US - PACIFIC

Arizona 42

California-Central 38

California-North 48

California-South 50

Nevada-North 9

Nevada-South 18

Oregon 45

Washington 44

US - MOUNTAIN

Colorado 55

New Mexico 10

Utah 16

Wyoming 9

US - NORTH CENTRAL

Illinois 40

Indiana 28

Iowa 20

Michigan 76

Minnesota 30

Ohio 39

Wisconsin 48

US - NORTHEAST

Maryland 34

Massachusetts 25

New Jersey 27

New York 49

Pennsylvania 45

TOTAL 1522 Members

US - SOUTH CENTRAL

Arkansas 14

Louisiana 10

Missouri 35

Oklahoma 22

Texas-North 57

Texas-South 94

US - SOUTHEAST

Florida 99

Georgia 47

Kentucky 9

Alabama 29

North Carolina 43

South Carolina 15

Tennessee 46

Virginia 51

Owners Club Membership

28,754 Number

of Members

41,431 Total Threads

403,220 Total Posts

Forum Statistics

Owners Club Membership Demographics

106

232

281

90294

339

180

Heartland Highlights

4 2015 Quarter Two

From the Editor

Well, for many of us, Spring is upon us, while others are still digging out of snow. We have seen some good rains and everything is green and blooming here in Texas!

We enjoyed visiting with our “Heartland Family” at the Texas-North Chapter Rally in Santo,TX this March. It unfortunately was the only Rally we’ll get to attend, until this summer when we head to the 2015 North American Heartland Owners Rally in Goshen.

Since we’ve been using our coach as a second residence since July 2014, we’ve had a few challenges. Recently we had our converter fail, but thanks to the knowledge-base and helpful Heartlanders on the Forum, we were able to test and diagnose the problem fairly quickly, order parts, and replace the converter ourselves. This was by far an easier solution than having to pack-up and haul the coach an hour down the road to the nearest dealer, especially when the weatherman was predicting freezing precipitation! So I encourage all Heartland Owners to check on the Forum using the Search feature to find solutions, and if that doesn’t work, post a question, asking for help. That’s what “family” is for.

In this issue, I want to encourage all to read about the unique mods some of our owners have completed. Owner Christopher Whitford shows off his custom paint/decal job to his Cyclone, a real head-turner. Owner Jeremy Ginn helps show us how to modify the drain lines to aid in balancing the grey tank capacity when boondocking. And owner Dennis Haas gives some great details on how to install a combo washer/dryer in the front closet of his

From the Editor

Erika Dorsey,Heartland Highlights Editor

Cyclone, which could easily be any coach with W/D connections in the front cap area.

The Heartland RV Brand Managers did not disappoint with new and exciting news from Heartland. Be sure to read about the new Torque Extreme Lite products, the new mid-bunk loft floorplan from Elkridge, and the new side patio/two bedroom Gateway.

I want to announce that the Heartland Highlights Newsletter will now be available on a handy e-reader site, https://issuu.com/

heartlandhighlights. We will make every effort to notify on the Forum when the latest Heartland Highlights is ready for viewing, and you will eventually be able to see all issues in this location, as well as on the Forum. Our goal is to expose more owners and potential owners to the HOC and its benefits, by making the Club Newsletter available in a variety of ways. Feel free to share these links!

I am always looking for ideas, modifications and stories to include in the Newsletter, so please drop me a line at: editor@heartlandowners.org!

by Erika Dorsey, Heartland Highlights Editor

“Heartland Highlights will now be available

on issuu.com.”

Heartland Highlights

2015 Quarter Two 5

HOC President’s Message

From the Desk of...Hello Heartland Owners Club Members,

Spring has sprung! If you weren’t wintering somewhere warm, have you opened up your RV from its long Winter nap?

We’ve been out extensively this year already. After working the Knoxville, TN Regional RV Show and the Florida RV SuperShow (Tampa), both in January, we headed west to Albuquerque, NM, then to Texas Hill Country for the RV.net Sweetheart Rally and back home to Tennessee. A week later, I pulled the Landmark Savannah on her last trip—back to Elkhart, IN to turn her in.

From Elkhart, I returned home to Tennessee with a new demo, a 2015 Landmark 365 Ashland. What a beauty. We camped in it for 3 nights right away, took it home for a few days, then left on a 3-week trip to Louisiana for the LA Rally, then to Chattanooga, TN for the Chattanooga RV Show and then home. So we’ve been on an extended “shake-down cruise.”

Did you make it to any RV shows this Winter/Spring? Did you buy a new Heartland RV? Let us know all about it on the Forum.

A couple years back, I added a new item to the end of my Pre-Departure Check-list. I call this item “The Walk Around.” Read

more about The Walk Around in the RV Tip article in this Newsletter.

Registration for the 2015 North American Heartland Owners Rally in Goshen opened on February 21st and signups were brisk. As of today, 232 rigs are registered for this year’s North American Heartland Owners Rally—and we have plenty of room for more. If you’re on the fence about attending this Rally and have a few questions, hop onto the Forum and check out the Rally Portal. If your question is not addressed in any article there, don’t hesitate to ask your Rally question on the Forum in this Rally Discussion thread.

And speaking of Rallies—have you

Jim Beletti,Owners Club President

seen the Rally Schedule for 2015? I count 38 Chapter Rallies, 2 Region Rallies and numerous Camp-outs and Meet-and-Greets coming up. Click the Events link from the navigation bar of any Forum page, or check out this handy link. It looks like another great year of Heartland events is shaping up nicely.

Happy Trails, Heartlanders. Keep making memories with your Heartland RV and “we’ll see you down on the road!”

by Jim Beletti, Heartland Owners Club President

“If you’re on the fence about attending this Rally and have a few questions, hop

onto the Forum and check out the

Rally Portal.”

Heartland Highlights

6 2015 Quarter Two

Club Manager’s CornerHello to All!Spring is here or almost depending on where you live. I know it’s here in Virginia because I am sneezing up a storm, the leaves are coming out on the trees and the daffo-dils are blooming.

The 2015 Rally season is in full swing. By the time you read this we will have already had 8 Chapter Rallies mostly in the South and the Southwest with 1 for some brave souls in Pennsylvania. (I am a warm weather person, for sure!) There will be five more Chapter Rallies and the Southeast Region Rally to attend before the 2015 North American Heartland Owners Rally in Goshen, Indiana this June. Check the Events calendar and see if you can fit a few in.

Dave and I attended our first Southeast Rally ever at WillowTree in the spring of 2006 and we joined the Heartland Owners Club when it started in November 2008 (our HOC num-ber is 1006). We met folks at that first SE Rally who we look forward to seeing again

and Michigan are tied for the Chapters with the most Member rigs attending: both with 20. Almost a third of attendees, 96 rigs, will be there on June 9, the first day of the pre-Rally. Believe it or not, there are 9 couples attending this year who were at the very first Goshen Rally in 2006. The big news though, is that almost half of the 2015 attendees have never been to Goshen before: this will be their first North American Goshen Rally. Now that’s ex-citing! So if you are still thinking about com-ing, please do. Everyone should experience the Goshen NA Rally at least once and you will be in good company. We still have FHU (50-amp, water and sewer) sites available and there are still tickets for the pre-Rally events. Here’s the link to the registration site. If you have any issues accessing the registration, please call (336-446-9462) or email me.

See you at Goshen!

by Julie Hancock, Heartland Owners Club Manager

Julie Hancock,Owners Club Manager

Club Manager’s Corner

“So if you are still thinking about coming,

please do…. We still have FHU sites available and there are still tickets for

the pre-Rally events.”

and again as we go from Rally to Rally. What a great group of people!

The 2015 North American Heartland Owners Rally is scheduled for June 16, 2015 through noon June 21, 2015. It’s hard to believe that it’s been 10 years since the first “Goshen” Rally. As of April 10 there are 35 Chapters and 41 states and provinces represented. Ontario

Heartland Highlights

2015 Quarter Two 7

Memorial

Submitted by Debbie Bylinski on behalf of the Northeast Region of the HOC

Heartland Highlights

8 2015 Quarter Two

Custom Cyclone Exterior

Creating a Custom Cyclone Exterior

For years leading up to retirement, the plan was to get a new truck and fifth-wheel rig together. After all this is what we had been saving for while working all those years. We started with custom ordering the truck in April 2014. A 2015 GMC Sierra Denali 3500HD Crew 4WD DRW. We selected Sonoma Metallic Red as our color of choice.

up in a box. This was very helpful because it would save cost and time on removing the graphics. Additionally we could put them on if we wanted to trade our rig in a few years. When the rig was ordered we began our research determining where to get the custom paint and graphics installed. We found a body shop that did really good work and did it for three different RV dealers in the area. The body shop had the capability to handle the job with a large spray booth to fit this rig. Also notable the body shop had a large vinyl graphics shop. So we decided to have the nose cap painted and vinyl graphics installed on the sides. All would be color matched to the tow vehicle. By using vinyl graphics the cost would be significantly lower. It also Now that we had a truck built to handle any

fifth-wheel we desired we began to narrow down the list of manufacturers and floor-plans. We knew early on that we wanted a toy hauler. We planned on attending the Hersey RV show. This way we could choose a manu-facturer. We already had several floorplans we liked from the toy hauler manufacturers. Now we needed to physically walk about them to determine which ones appeared to be built best. None of the manufacturers would custom paint the rig. Most of them offered full body paint but it was approximately a $10,000 option and still would not match the tow vehicle. The full body paint option means choosing from predetermined designs. None of them matched my Sonoma Metallic Red tow vehicle. Being an Army CSM, a tow vehicle that didn’t match its trailer was unacceptable. I remember my Battalion Com-mander joking about how he knew the tow vehicle and trailer would look good together.

We decided on the Cyclone 4200 floorplan. Heartland’s Regional Sales Manager, Matt Olds was extremely helpful during the process. He suggested we order the rig without having the graphics installed. Instead it would be shipped with the graphics rolled

would be very easy to have them removed if we were to trade the rig in a few years. I had design ideas that I shared with the graphics designer. I wanted to keep the Cyclone type swirls so we came up with the design together. All designing was done via email while waiting for the rig to arrive. We set up the appointment for December. The body shop was very flexible on dates knowing that they couldn’t get started until the rig was delivered to the dealer.

The rig was delivered to the dealer in Decem-ber and I picked it up and brought it to the body shop for the work to begin. It took just over four weeks for the work to get completed. All total it cost $6,000 to have the graphics and paint completed.

Decal-free Cyclone toy hauler, just picked up from the dealer.

See CUSTOM, continued on

page 9

Heartland Highlights

2015 Quarter Two 9

Custom Cyclone Exterior

In closing, I hope you and your family are ready to enjoy the Spring camping season. This is always an exciting time of the year—Enjoy the moments that make the memories!

by Coley Brady, Vice President of Sales

VP OF SALES, continued from page 1

For anyone interested in having custom painted/graphics added to their rig, here is my guidance and recommendations:1) Unless you decide to have your dealer’s body

shop do the work, DO NOT INVOLVE the dealership. Take the rig to the body shop yourself and pick it up.

2) Work in advance on designs with the body shop graphic designers. It could be a lengthy process.

3) Consider vinyl graphics instead of paint. The cost is much lower.

4) Choose a body shop that has the facility to handle your rig.

5) Go online and conduct research into the body shop you are considering. Most established ones have web sites and albums to show work they did in the past.

6) Start early, have the work done during camping off season.

7) Expect to pay between $3000-$12000 (depending on the size of your rig).

8) Consider having matching graphics on the tow vehicle and rig.

One last point I want to make is it is best to coordinate with a body shop prior to taking delivery and/or during the off season. I refused to use the trailer until it matched my truck. If we had started the season, who knows if we would ever got the paint/graphics done, because I knew we would be having too much fun!

by Christopher Whitford HOC Member #2795

CUSTOM, continued from page 8

Heartland Highlights

10 2015 Quarter Two

Quarterly Safety Tip

Quarterly Safety Tip

Recently, my wife, Amy, returned home from Nevada with some inherited items after her aunt passed away. One of those items, a nice big toaster oven, ended up on our kitchen counter. After about a week of attempting to make some toast the way she likes it, she complained that is wasn’t working correctly. So, I, being the Mr. Fix-it hus-band I am, headed to the kitchen.

After taking a few minutes to look it over and watch it bake some toast, I kind of got the picture in my head what the problem might be. To prove my hypothesis, I first obtained the oven’s model number. Then I proceeded to use my ever-so-smart LG G3 computer phone to locate and download the oven’s owner’s manual.

After the download was complete, I searched for instructions on baking toast. Sure enough, there was an instruction paragraph specifically for baking toast. I grabbed another piece of

bread and placed it in the oven per the owner’s manual instructions and set the timer for the desired results. About four minutes later, DING! I took out the perfectly baked piece of toast and presented it to Amy.

“What did you do?” she asked. I proceeded to inform her I downloaded the owner’s manual,

“Wait, wait” she interrupted, “I think I have the owner’s manual in the drawer next to the stove.” You may be asking, “What has this to do with RV safety?”

See SAFETY, continued on page 11

Have You Studied It?

Dave Gray,Safety Reporter

Actually, a lot. Since my last safety article, and with my inquisitive mindset, I began to notice some troubling conversations on various RV forums and on some RV Facebook groups. Ad-ditionally, after recently having an appointment with a local truck salesman, I’ve grown increas-ingly concerned.

What I have observed is that it appears that a significant number of vehicle owners will read only the one line in their owner’s manual showing the tow weight rating (TWR) for their vehicle model, and nothing more. I read one comment from an RVer stating “If that’s what the manual says, then that what the manufac-turer claims it will tow.”

Well, the comment would be true only if, and I say again, only if, the vehicle is towed in the exact configuration the manufacturer gives the rating for. I cannot imagine one single vehicle that when it’s made tow ready will tow what the TWR states in the owner’s manual. Trailer Life’s towing guide states, “…but many buyers interpret the maximum vehicles’ tow ratings with far too much optimism.”

It certainly appears that many vehicle owners fail to study any of the most important towing instructions in their owner’s manual, especially the safety warnings and cautions similar to the ones on the next page.

“…vehicle owners will read only the one line in their owner’s manual showing

the tow weight rating (TWR) for their vehicle model, and nothing more.”

This toaster oven can deliver.

Heartland Highlights

2015 Quarter Two 11

Quarterly Safety Tip

SAFETY, continued from page 10

• Do not exceed the maximum axle weight rat-ing or the total vehicle weight rating.

• Do not overload the vehicle. It may not only cause damage to the tires, but also degrade the steering and braking ability, resulting in an accident.

• Improper loading may cause deterioration of steering or braking control which may cause death of serious injury.

• The gross trailer weight must never exceed the TWR described in the table.

• The gross combination weight must never exceed the GCWR described in the table.

• The gross vehicle weight must never exceed the GVWR indicated on the Certification Label.

• The gross axle weight on each axle must never exceed the GAWR indicated on the Certification Label.

Therefore, if you haven’t studied your owner’s manual lately, or at all, I encourage you to take the time to do so. You may be amazed to learn some features you didn’t know about your ve-hicle. You might even discover some areas that could be a cause for safety concerns.

With that said, I am seeing some very good and responsible posts and responses on our Club Forum lately. I, for one, am very pleased that some of our Forum Members have stepped up to the safety plate and provided some excellent answers to newbie RVing questions. Keep up the good work! You are playing an important role for the safety of all.

Most importantly, may all your destinations end safely this year, and Amy says, “Enjoy a perfectly baked piece of toast for breakfast.”Note: Dave Gray is open to suggested topics for future articles. Email Dave at graystarcity@hotmail.com

by David Gray, Safety ReporterExample of a TWR chart

Heartland RVs Brand General Managers – Office Number: 574-266-8726

ROLE NAME REGION E-MAIL ADDRESSExecutive Mgmt Coley Brady V.P. of Sales coley.brady@heartlandrvs.comLandmark Tom Montague LM General Manager tom.montague@heartlandrvs.comBighorn Oakmont Kary Katzenberger BH/SV General Manager kary.katzenberger@heartlandrvs.com

Cyclone Road Warrior Torque, Edge

AJ Jones CY/RW General Manager aj.jones@heartlandrvs.com

Big Country Elkridge Joel Eberlein BC/ER General Manager joel.eberlein@heartlandrvs.com

Gateway Sundance Paul Craven GW/SD General Manager paul.craven@heartlandrvs.com

North Trail Wilderness Mallard

Mike Creech NT/WD General Manager mike.creech@heartlandrvs.com

Trail Runner ProwlerPioneer

Ryan Brady PR/PI/TR General Manager ryan.brady@heartlandrvs.com

How to Reach Heartland

Heartland’s customer service is considered by many owners to be second-to-none. Here’s

how to reach the specific Brand General Managers, if you are considering a new

purchase and have specific brand-related questions. How great is that?

Heartland Highlights

12 2015 Quarter Two

Combo Washer Dryer Install

Combo Washer Dryer Installation

Recently, my wife and I decided to take the plunge and move up from a travel trailer to a fifth-wheel toy hauler. We purchased a new Cyclone 3010. This toy hauler was pre-plumbed for a washing machine in the front right closet in the upstairs bedroom. We had never even considered the need for a washing machine in our RV, but now that our rig was pre-plumbed, we considered that with a washing machine and a dryer on our camping trips, we wouldn’t need to pack as many clothes, we wouldn’t need to accumulate a heap of dirty clothes, and we wouldn’t need to return home to the task of washing the clothes from the past week. Just the mere presence of the pre-plumbing package made the merits of a washer and dryer so obviously apparent.

Having been newly enlightened, I decided to undertake the task of prepping for the installation. I could have asked the dealer to perform the install, but they advised that they did not install a drip pan during washer installs, which I considered a necessity. Also, I tend to feel that I will take the time to do the job as if it were my own (which it is), whereas someone else may not take the TLC that I would.

The preparation fell into three main tasks. Firstly, I would have to install the dryer vent out through the side wall of the fifth-wheel. Secondly, I’d have to install the drip pan and its associated drain line. Lastly, I’d have to install and attach the appliance into place.

For the dryer vent line, I assembled the tools I needed. They included a stud finder that worked on metal studs, a cordless drill, a 1/16" drill bit, a ¼" drill bit, a 4" hole saw, measur-ing tape, a ladder, masking tape, silicone caulk, a marker, and the Splendide dryer vent kit. My fifth-wheel did not have a sticker inside indicating where the dryer vent was supposed to be located, but after reading the

Heartland Owners Forum on other owners’ experiences, I learned that it held little value anyway. I used my studfinder to find the location of the horizontal metal support, and the vertical metal studs. I placed masking tape on the inside wall to mark the location of the metal support members. I used the plastic tube from the Splendide dryer vent kit to trace a 4" circle just forward of a vertical stud, and just below the horizontal support. I then took a measurement of the distance the hole was forward the bedroom window, and the distance above the bottom of the window, and transferred these measurements on the outside of the fifth-wheel to see where the hole would exit. This was to confirm that the hole would not be on a seam or other poor location. Then, prior to drilling the 4" hole with the hole saw, I wanted to confirm that I wouldn’t hit any metal supports. I used the 1/16" drill bit in the cordless drill to drill “test holes” around the circumference of the 4" circle I had traced onto the inside wall.

Having confirmed that there were no metal supports behind the 4" circle, I attached the 4" hole saw to the cordless drill. I sawed approximately 1" into the wall. Again, I felt relieved to have not hit anything metal. I then removed the 4" hole saw and attached a ¼" bit to the drill. I drilled through the center of the 4" hole I had started, and pushed until I felt that I had pierced through the outer skin of the camper. I raced outside to see that the drill exited approximately where I had anticipated. It was time for a quick break to enjoy another moment of relief. With my heart rate back down where it belonged, I reattached the 4" hole saw to finish the vent hole. I climbed my ladder, placed the drill in reverse, and centered on the ¼" hole exit. I ran the hole saw in reverse to score the fiberglass skin (to minimize tearing or cracking). With the hole scored, I placed the drill in the forward direction, and completed the 4" hole. The plug that I removed showed the wall was constructed of a fiberglass skin on a ¼" wood luan, over foam insulation, and another layer of ¼" luan on the inside.

Checking the wall for obstructions

Hole cut, view from the exterior.

With the 4" hole completed, I applied a bead of silicone caulk completely around the outside of the hole. I then inserted the vent cap, from the outside, and used a level to seat it into the caulk. I used the self tapping screws that came with vent kit to start holes

See COMBO, continued on page 13

Heartland Highlights

2015 Quarter Two 13

Combo Washer Dryer Install

in the outside of the fiberglass. After the holes were started, I backed the screws out, and applied a dab of silicone caulk into the screw holes. Then, when I re-inserted the screws, caulk oozed out of the hole and sealed everything nicely. The only obstacle I hit was when the two screws to the rear of the 4" hole hit the metal stud. I had to take a small drill bit and start a hole in the metal stud, and then the self tapping screws seated nicely. Here is the vent flap installed, prior to wiping off the excess caulk around the edges.

Drip Pan InstallThe second part of the installation included the drain line for the drip pan. For this, I assembled a 7/8" spade bit, a cordless drill, a Phillips head screwdriver, and about 12 feet of garden hose. I started by pulling the drawers from the dresser under the window on the curb side of the bedroom, and saw that I could run the drain line under this dresser. I removed all four drawers from the sliders by removing 4 Phillips head screws from each side of each drawer. I started the drain line, using the length of garden hose, in the closet. I removed the 4 screws from the access panel below the water line hookups in the closet. Then, I used the spade bit to drill a hole, close to the floor, into this access area. I was able to pull the hose alongside the pex water lines, toward the rear of the fifth-wheel. Then I reattached the access panel.

Behind this access panel, outside of the closet, there was an angular carpeted section that I was able to remove with four screws. See picture of the green drain line running next to other lines, and the angular carpeted section is sitting at the bottom.

Vent cover added. Drain hose exits the closet

Vent flap cap installed

See COMBO, continued on page 14

COMBO, continued from page 12

To finish off the dryer vent, I attached the chrome vent cover to the black plastic vent. The chrome cover rested on a lip on the top, and attached with two screws at the bottom. Again, I sealed the screw holes with silicone caulk.

From here, I passed underneath the dresser area, and pushed the drain line parallel to the pex (red and blue) water lines. I used the spade bit again to drill a hole downward into the propane storage area, roughly in line with the exit of the drain line. I used silicon caulk to seal around the hose, both from the inside and from the outside of the hole.

After the silicone was cured, I applied foam sealant around the exit of the hose.

Heartland Highlights

14 2015 Quarter Two

Combo Washer Dryer Install

To finish off the run of the drain line, I cut the hose off even with the bottom of the camper, and applied a small square of fiberglass screening over the end of the hose, with a hose clamp, to keep critters from crawling up into the hose.

ing strap. I ordered and received a Splendide 2100XC washer dryer combo. I decided to cut two sections of ¾" plywood, each being 2’ x 2'. I glued these two pieces together to create a 2' x 2' wood platform that was 1-½" thick. In the area where the washer was to be placed, I laid the nylon ratcheting strap flat, and the wooden base on top of it. (The purpose of the wooden platform was to provide a more solid base for the washer than a carpeted floor alone would provide, and also some degree of elevation to help drain the drip pan if a leak were to occur.) I used four 2-½" drywall screws to screw the wooden base into the carpeted floor. With the strap extending underneath the wooden base, it was now also secured to the floor as well. On top of the wooden base, I secured the drip pan with four screws sealed with silicon caulk. A helper and I placed the washer into the drip pan, leaving as much room as possible to attach and seal the side piece of the drip pan. This was attached with a strip of butyl tape, a few supplied screws, and plenty of silicone caulk. I then remembered to remove the four retaining bolts from the back of the washer that hold the drum in place during transport.

I attached the ratcheting strap over the top of the washer to hold it in place securely during travel, and placed an old towel under the metal part to keep it from vibrating against the washer. There is a bracket that is com-mercially available to secure the washer to the floor, but I did not know if it would work within the confines of the drip pan, so I opted for my plan. See picture of the wooden base, the drip pan, and the location of the ratcheting strap.

COMBO, continued from page 13

I reattached the drawers into their slides, attached the carpeted angular section, and cleaned up any mess I had made. I used a cup of water and a funnel to pour water into the hose, and confirmed that it flowed and drained appropriately.

I attached a flexible metal dryer vent line from the washer/dryer to the vent tube I had previously installed, and attached the water lines from the washer/dryer to the pre-plumbed water hookups in the closet. Lastly, I attached the water drain line from the washer/dryer to the drain tube next to the water lines. This installation is very manageable for anyone with moderate construction skills. It is a little unnerving to drill big holes through the outside of a brand new fifth-wheel, but as long as you take your time, double check your measurements, and confirm that you are not getting ahead of yourself, this is very doable. The most difficult part was hauling the washer/dryer into the camper and carefully placing it into the drip pan in the closet. If you should decide to take on a washer/dryer installation, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of knowing you did it yourself, and that it was done right.

by Dennis Haas HOC Member 0591

The finished install.Drain line with screen to keep critters out.

For the final part of the job, I needed the washer dryer combo, a wooden base, the drain pan, an adapter and male hose fitting from the hardware store, and a nylon ratchet-

“This installation is very manageable…

take your time, double check your

measurements, and confirm that you are

not getting ahead of yourself, this is

very doable.”

Heartland Highlights

2015 Quarter Two 15

Heartland News

Heartland Owners Calendar

The deadline has passed, the judges are done…

Order your new 2015-2016 Calendar NOW!

The calendars run from July 2015 to June 2016. Anyone interested in ordering one can email Dave Yocum at dyocum881@yahoo.com or PM him on the Heartland Owners Forum: davebennington

The cost this year is the same as last year $7.00 plus shipping (usually $1.50 o $2.00) depending on where and how many in the package.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS, and contact Dave to order your calendar(s) today!!

Get your custom Heartland gear!

http://www.companycasuals.com/hoc or call 888-729-0198.

Heartland News

TOP DEBUTS: Heartland RV’s Landmark 365

The Landmark 365, a high-end fifth-wheel manufactured by Heart-land Recreational Vehicles, a division of Thor Industries Inc., continues to be an important player in the Elkhart, Ind., manufacturer’s lineup. “Afford-able full-time luxury is what we like to call it,” said Landmark General Manager Tom Montague. Although available in four configurations, three of which have a front bedroom while the fourth features a front bath, each multi-slideout LM365 offers a mid-level kitchen with center island and rear living area. All four models sit on two 8,000-pound axles with interiors offering 8-foot width and 13-foot, 3-inch height. Lengths range from 41 feet, 1 inch to 42 feet, 9 inches while tank capacity is 104 gallons for fresh water and 84 gallons each for gray and black. On the inside, the LM365 offers a motorhome-like power management system, induction cooktop, solid maple interiors, LG solid surface countertops, a 22-cubic-foot Samsung residential refrigerator and a Waveland Sleep System. The units retail in the $110,000-$120,000 range.

by Staff, RVBusiness

Heartland Highlights

16 2015 Quarter Two

Torque Extreme Lite

Heartland Debuts Torque Extreme Lite

The Heartland toy hauler group has a huge announcement of the all new Torque Extreme Lite product. This is very exciting news at Heartland introducing for the first time ever Heartland a line of ½ ton towable travel trailers that are packed with features, at a very aggres-sive price point with MSRP prices starting at $39,450. General manager AJ Jones said “It is a

the high-end fifth-wheel category. It is because of the huge expansion at Heartlands production facilities that we are able to now introduce an all new light weight Torque Extreme Lite.”

This is big news because Heartland has a great reputation in the toy hauler market along with a loyal customer base. However most customers do not own a ¾ or 1 ton diesel truck to tow our units. Building the new Extreme Lite product is very exciting because it is going to allow Heartland to compete in markets that were never available before!

by AJ Jones, Cyclone, Road Warrior, Torque, Edge General Manager

See LITE, continued on page 17

very exciting time for Heartland with the introduction of the Torque extreme lite product. Heartland is very successful in fifth-wheel toy hauler segment with almost 25% market share and now currently the #4 selling fifth-wheel in the world with a toy hauler! However because of production limitations we were not able to grow into other segments and price points outside of

Heartland Highlights

2015 Quarter Two 17

Torque Extreme Lite

LITE, continued from page 16

RV Lock Special Offer

Heartland owners will now be able to consider upgrading their OEM lockset with the new RVLock v4.0 Keyless Entry. The v4.0 RVLock has a hardwired keypad built right into the handle and directly replaces your existing lockset using a Phillips head screwdriver. (Check to make sure it replaces your current handle by visiting www.rvlock.com/specs). RVLock’s mission statement is “to build high quality products that provide our customers with a sense of security, comfort and the latest in technology. While striving towards product innovation and success, our long-term relationships between our company, employees, and our customers are paramount.”

Free Additional

Fob

RVLock v4.0 Keyless Entry lockset

Thanks to this special offer, Heartland product owners can purchase direct from www.rvlock.com, a polished black RVLock v4.0 with the integrated keypad for $199.99. The kit includes: RVLock v4.0 handle, one remote FOB, 2 keys and installation hardware.

PLUS, just for Heartland product owners, you will receive one additional remote FOB and standard shipping* at no additional charge!

Contact them at support@rvlock.com or call 1-888-316-9899 for questions. Offer avail-able for a limited time, May 1 through June 30, 2015.

*This special applies to orders shipped to US ship-to

addresses. For orders shipped to Canada, please call

RVLock for a special offer.

by Erika Dorsey Heartland Highlights Editor

Simply go to www.rvlock.com to place your order, and be sure to enter the word heartland in the coupon code at checkout. (Free FOB available only at time of lockset purchase).

“…one additional remote FOB and

standard shipping* at no additional

charge.”

Heartland Highlights

18 2015 Quarter Two

Elkridge 39MBHS

The All New Elkridge 39MBHS

Heartland’s Elkridge brand adds to its indus-try leading “family” (bunk) type floor plan options with the introduction of the 39MBHS. A Heartland RV first, mid-bunk/utility room that offers a large overhead loft.

The mid room offers flexibility for families or just added space for office area, crafts or that separate “Man Cave”. An overhead loft accessible through an extended side aisle is perfect for grandkids or innovative storage.

Unlike most bunk models there is no compromising on the more desirable fifth-wheel floor plan design in the main living area.• The kitchen area has a large island,

complemented by the optional 12cu refrigerator

• The Entertainment center area is located on the off-door side with opposing recliners or theater seats and the 80" sleeper sofa along the rear wall keeps everyone comfort-able and engaged in conversation.

The 39MBHS has all the standards our owners have come to expect with Elkridge.• LED interior lights.• Solid hardwood doors.• Front wardrobe closet that accommodates

stackable washer dryer in forward facing cabinet.

• Pearl color high gloss exterior fiberglass.

by Joel Eberlein

Elkridge General Manager

Heartland Highlights

2015 Quarter Two 19

Advertisement

What tire is your toy hauler brand riding on?

Load Range G, 14 Ply Rating tires are now standard on Heartland toy hauler models.

LT 235/85/R16 – Load Range G, 14 Ply RatingInflation – 110 psi

Cyclone Edge

Torque* Road Warrior

*excludes Torque Xtreme Lite

Heartland Highlights

20 2015 Quarter Two

Gray Tank Modification

Gray Tank Combination Modification

Problem... You have two separate small gray tanks and you want added space for addi-tional showers on extended boondocking or weekend camp-outs on sites that do not have direct sewer connections.

Trepidation. Anxiety. Fear. For many, these words best describe that feeling you get when tax season comes around, or you have that nagging pain in your mouth that can only be cured by a trip to the dentist. Or better still, they can be used to describe the time you first met your in-laws. For me though, they have represented the feeling I get when I need to take a shower and I’m not hooked up to a sewer line. Now certainly I am not saying I take very long showers in a single sitting. I’m referring to the times when I’m parked at a site with no sewer hookups and my wife and I are on the fourth day without sewer hookups. Can I just say that 35 gallons isn’t enough to be able to take several decent showers without standing in the tub soaked in soap looking down and seeing the water level rise past your ankles!

My Prowler Lynx came with three 35 gallon holding tanks. The rear-most serves the shower, the middle is the black tank of death, and the front-most tank ties in to the sinks. Since most of our cooking and eating is done with paper plates and plastic utensils, cleanup is a snap and doesn’t require us to use the kitchen a lot. So I feel the 35 gallon tank used for the kitchen is a “waste,” and could be better utilized as an auxiliary shower tank. Once I was dead-set on the idea of combining the tanks, I started searching online for details, pictures, whatever, basically anything I could find out about how to tie both gray’s together. After searching in vain for specific instructions, only to find a few hand drawings and napkin notes, I decided to wing-it and come up with my own plan. Trailer design and tank placement vary greatly, and it only makes sense that one person’s way to address

the problem may be completely different from your own, so I offer the following instructions simply as a guide, not a “my way or the highway” instructable.

To start, you will need the following list of parts and tools, which can be found at your local hardware/plumbing supply store. Pipe lengths may vary depending on how close your two gray tanks are together.

Things needed:• 2" PVC or ABS pipe 48" long (shorter or longer) • 3" to 2" PVC or ABS Reducer• 2" 90 degree PVC or ABS Elbow• 3" x 3" x 2" PVC or ABS T-fitting• ABS/PVC compatible Cement and Cleaner. It

must say it is compatible with both ABS and PVC pipe, otherwise you will have leaks and have to start completely over. If you are only using ABS pipe, ABS glue is best

• PVC saw, Hacksaw or other device for cutting pipe

• 2" galvanized pipe hanger• 3" galvanized pipe hanger• 2" “Blade” or “Gate” valve• Plastic compatible spray paint• Masking tape• Ruler, measuring stick, or tape measure• Marker or pencil• Flat blade screwdriver• Utility knife• Some patience…

You may have noticed I said in the list above you can use PVC or ABS pipe and fittings or a combination of the two. Most if not all of the motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth-wheels, etc.

over the past several decades have used ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) piping in their non-pressure DWV (Drain Waste & Vent) systems due to its low cost, Cellulous core construction, and the fact it resists vibration and impact better than PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride). For my Prowler, I chose to use PVC since it was readily available locally and I would only be using it for 40-50% of my system. I could not find ABS anywhere locally and would have had to order it online and wait. My next trip was coming up in a few days, so I decided to go with PVC.

Having two drain outlets on your trailer can be a bit of a pain if you only have one hose. Of course you could buy a wye fitting and extra hose, but that can make your site look cluttered. If both gray tanks are already connected to the same drain line, you can skip this entire modification just by closing the Black tank valve and opening both gray tank valves to equalize the levels.

Look at the configuration of your plumbing system. Most of our trailers will have three tanks, one black and two gray. One of the gray tanks will usually be connected to the same outlet as the black one. Identify the other gray tank that has its own drain line out from under the trailer. If the trailer’s axles are between both outlets, it will make tying the tanks together much more difficult. If all three tanks are in close proximity to each other, sketch out a general layout of the tank setup like I have done below.

Before and after configurations. See TANK, continued on page 21

Heartland Highlights

2015 Quarter Two 21

Gray Tank Modification

Before beginning this modification be sure to drain and clean out all of the tanks. You will be cutting into the gray tank line and it could be a little stinky, so it’s best to dump and clean them out before going further.

1) Standard setup. This is the pipe where we will tie into with the 2"x3" Wye fitting from the shower tank which is just to the right outside of this picture.

(4) Tape off the inside of the fittings so the paint won’t get where it will cause gluing problems.

Removing the pipe from the gray tank

See TANK, continued on page 22

TANK, continued from page 20

2) This paint worked very well and has stood up to several months of abuse.

3) These are the fitting you need if you have the Prowler Lynx. You may need addi-tional pieces if your tank outlets are arranged differently.

Close up of tape covering the inside areas.

5) It was easy to remove the pipe off of the shower tank by loosening the band clamp. Careful, the gray sealant they used during assembly is very sticky!

6) Mark off where you wish to cut the removed section of pipe in order to fit the new 3" to 2" reducer. Remember to measure twice, cut once!

7) Test fit the reducer and reposition the pipe back on the tank for a moment to ensure you will have enough room for the new pipe.

Heartland Highlights

22 2015 Quarter Two

Gray Tank Modification

8) By now the paint has dried and it’s time to assemble the pieces like a jigsaw puzzle!

This job takes some patience, and won’t be easy for those that have the covered under-belly. Take your time, measure twice, and the results will be noticible. You now have doubled your shower’s gray water capacity!

by Jeremy Ginn, HOC Member #2856

TANK, continued from page 21

9) Temporarily reattach the original pipe back on the tank and position the new pipe assembly onto the reducer and check for a proper downward slope towards the new main drain line. You may need to go ahead and cut the main line and glue the 3"x3"x2" Wye fitting in place at this time.

10) Glue the new 2" pipe to the reducer and to the main line Wye that you just fitted. Install a pipe hanger to support the line.

11) Below is the finished product! At the time I took the pictures I had neglected to install the 2" Blade valve. The red circle represents the best location to install the valve so the shower tank can be sealed from the others. Now is a good time to touch up any areas with more black paint to finish out the look!

12) After completing the upgrade, I found that I had to remove the extension off of the black tank blade valve otherwise the handle could not be pulled to dump its contents!

Heartland Highlights

2015 Quarter Two 23

Heartland News

Heartland News

Heartland RVs Teams Up with Author for Cross-Country TourHeartland RVs is partnering with author Jamie Bianchini for an upcoming cross-country trek to promote his book, “A Bicycle Built for Two Billion” chroni-cling his eight-year, 80-country world journey on a tandem bike.

The Elkhart, Ind.-based builder will be supplying a North Trail travel trailer for the 12,000-mile, 38-city book tour that originates in Santa Cruz, Calif., lands in New York City, and then circles back to Southern California.

During the trek, Bianchini will work his way from the West Coast and across the southern U.S. before riding up the East Coast. He’ll make a four-day stop June 16-20 in Goshen Ind., at the 2015 North American Heartland Owners Rally.

“By inviting strangers to ride with me, I hoped to do my part in creating more peace in the world by reducing unnec-essary fears and prejudices between people,” said Bianchini, co-founder of Peace Pedalers.

Bianchini’s international journey through Europe, Africa and Latin America offered a platform for world harmony as Bianchini provided rides to over 1,000 total strangers.

Heartland’s sponsorship was cemented during a Jan. 28 presentation at the builder’s campus in Elkhart of the 2015 lightweight North Trail trailer, which will be emblazoned with graphics promoting Bianchini’s “Family Book Tour.”

“This is a wonderful opportunity for Heartland, as a corporation, to align with someone who has taken on such a signifi-cant cause,” Heartland Vice President of Sales and Marketing Coley Brady said. “When Jamie first approached us, we were instantly drawn in. We are very excited about this partnership.”

Bianchini and his family will be staying at KOA campgrounds throughout the tour, interacting with RVers and “offering the

chance to get the North Trail in front of people,” Brady noted.

“Our North Trail line just experienced its best year ever, and we’re looking to grow even more in 2015,” General Manager Mike Creech said, noting the company recently moved the brand into a dedicated production facility to address rising demand.

“North Trail offers a blend of ameni-ties, structural integrity and affordabil-ity that distinguishes the line in the extremely high-volume lightweight, laminated sector for our dealers, and the end user.”

Creech said Bianchini also recognized North Trail as offering the durability and overall comfort needed for the arduous tour.

“He picked the North Trail over a lot of other brands,” he said. “He drives an SUV so it was important to have a trailer that was truly lightweight. He also wanted a trailer that was well-built, and he saw that we go the extra mile with added insulation along with laminated 2-inch sidewalls and a 3-inch laminated roof.

by Staff, RV PRO Magazine

Jamie Bianchini chose the Heartland North Trail as his base camp as he cycles the country promoting his new book.

Heartland Highlights

24 2015 Quarter Two

Traveling with Pets

Club Members Rebecca & Jeremy Dickey are well known for their adventures in their Landmark and Becky’s series of books based on her blog, www.CrowdedCamper.com. Often featured in the blog are their dogs, Arco a Belgian Malanois; Gunney, a Labrador retriever; and Diesel, the Beta fish.

—Editor

Acquiring the two dogs and fishJeremy had Gunney when we got married, and we adopted Arco through the Military Working Dog handlers at Moody Air Force Base. He was being retired (due to overheat-ing on a flight line patrol, and he could no longer regulate his temperature), so we spent a few months visiting with him during the application process. Eventually, Arco picked us, and literally laid at our daughter Morgan’s feet, suggesting (according to her) that he liked her best. They’ve been thick as thieves ever since. Diesel is our second fish to the camper. The first one, Marshmallow, died of constipation (that’s what the pet store said!), after a full night of freezing temps in the camper when Military Man didn’t realize the camper ran on propane. And the fish tank didn’t have a heater at the time. He died of frigid temperature pucker factor I guess. The kids loved the fish so much that we replaced him with Diesel—named by our children for the many trucks they watch all day in the campground. Diesel has stayed with us nearly 2 years, and the moment he kicks the bucket, I plan to send him to a taxidermist, because a mounted beta fish will be about the biggest piece of art we can fit on a wall here.

Canine special talentsArco gets all the attention for being a former bomb detection dog, and because most peo-

Traveling with Pets

Arco and Gunney in the Landmark.

Diesel, the Beta fish.

See PETS, continued on page 25

ple don’t see Belgian Mal’s that often. They think he’s a skinny German Shepherd. At 105 pounds, he’s a beast in the Mal category. Gunney, a professionally trained duck hunt-ing dog, (if you’re familiar with retrieving

language) has never missed a retrieve in his 13 years of life. Obsessed with all things ducks, he is capable of blind retrieves and on multiple occasions has wagged his tail so violently that he has been diagnosed with “lab

Arco takes commands from Jeremy.

Gunney loves the hunt.

Heartland Highlights

2015 Quarter Two 25

Traveling with Pets

See PETS, continued on page 26

tail” due to his excitement of the sport. (Lab Tail has a real name, but it’s common in labs that swim in cold water, or wag their tail to the point of causing nerve damage or pinched nerves. He has a permanent “tea pot” tail now, because it never fully healed from his duck hunting joy.) He is so obsessed with retriev-ing things from the water, that he is notorious for retrieving rubber bathtub ducks when the kids are in mid-play with them, or even trying to retrieve Jeremy and me from the pool, considering us large ducks as well. He no longer gets to stay near water when the rest of the family is there, as he’s a total party crasher with an agenda. He will even retrieve a toothbrush floating in the sink. We know because we’ve tested him.

Arco, today, doesn’t search for bombs, but he still has all the skills. Before we moved to Arizona, he volunteered at our daughter’s elementary school, walking the halls with the Deputy Sheriff to check in on everyone and everything. Believing he was still working, he wore his official harness, was told to search,

PETS, continued from page 24

and he searched. He loved the kids so much, that when they were in lines in the hallway, they would all stick out their hands, forming a petting line, and he would proudly walk his way through their affections. Like a cat winding around a person, he did that to the hundreds of children and teachers at the school. Now, he gives us the stink eye, raids cabinets, eats furniture (yes the couch), climbs counters, and generally acts like a toddler on a rampage, because we took him from what he knew was his job. We are anxiously trying to find him a new purpose, because Belgian Mal’s HAVE TO WORK.

The most memorable adventure while travelingI’d have to say the night in Little Rock that Arco got the Tasmanian A** flu across the camper, primarily leaving a liquid pile of dog doo in the drawer under the stove, and then kicking so violently after that it closed. I was left playing hide and seek with dog diarrhea because I smelled it yet couldn’t find it, and found it blanketing Jeremy’s collection of private reserve alcohol, in the drawer, closed up under the stove. A horrific night, one that

left us searching for a new drawer because I ran that one to the dumpster (gagging all the way), I recall Jeremy locking me out of the bedroom while he, the kids and Gunney hid safely upstairs. I’ll never recover, and we’ve since renamed that night “The MOAB that killed Jack Daniels.” MOAB stands for Mother of All Bombs.

Traveling accommodationsWe pull the Landmark with a Ford F250 Diesel (that has air bags added), and Arco takes up the entire backseat. I brought my Suburban on this adventure, so Gunney rides in the back of my Chevy. Jake usually rides with Jeremy in the truck, and Morgan usually rides with me. Diesel, our fighter, gets to ride in the floor board of my car, in his tank, with half of the water removed along with the heater, and we pray he can stand the drive wherever we are going. So far he has. When we stop for the night, we plug him back in and reheat his tank. We have, ahem, let the dogs ride in the camper while we took a short drive (and the generator was running with nice cool air blowing), and they basically pooped in every possible walking space. So we haven’t done that since, although everyone else on the forums seems to let their pets ride in their campers. I don’t like arriving to fresh turds in my floor so we don’t do that.

Recommendations for traveling with petsI think it’s all about knowing your pets, and what they need, because the campground life doesn’t usually permit your pets to run wild and free as if you have a backyard. You have to think about their quality of life and exercise needs in a restricted environment. When we started the adventure, we took out the table and chairs, and put in dog crates, because we were worried Arco would eat everything. He still does eat everything in the camper, but we missed having a table. It’s a balance of quality of life for everyone, and if your pets make you happy, then take them! I have a friend who has a capuchin monkey

“Arco picked us, and literally laid at

our daughter Morgan’s feet…

suggesting that he liked her best.”

Heartland Highlights

26 2015 Quarter Two

Destination RVing

living in her RV. Talk about the crazy train, she knows what has to be locked and how to make it work. That’s true for all of us, and the needs our pets may have. I do NOT recom-mend putting a Belgian Mal in a camper. They just need work, to stay busy, and if you don’t give that to them, well, they eat your couch.

Where we’re headed, or not Right now, we’re going nowhere. We are firmly holding down our spot at the Fam Camp on the military base where Jeremy is working. We are supposedly on the waiting list for a house on base, but our snowbird friends all departed with the statement, “we will see you right here this time next year,” because I think they know something we don’t… We ain’t ever getting a house. So, we are once again back to being one of those families that moved into a camper, and we don’t camp…. by Rebecca Dickey HOC Member #2605

Arco misses the smell of gun powder, so when Becky goes to the range, he goes too. It has a weird calming effect on him. He almost goes to sleep on her feet.

PETS, continued from page 25

Truly your home away from home! You have a seasonal lot at your favorite camping resort or that perfect piece of rustic lake property. Why tow, when you can Just Show Up! Travel to and from your destination spot in your economic vehicle, come and go as you please and don’t spend precious family time setting up Just Show Up and start enjoying!

Introducing Destination RVing!

Three robust brands and dealers nationwide, Heartland offers destination trailers for everyone! Couples models, family bunk houses, huge front kitchens, enormous living rooms, full size bathrooms, King beds and storage for weeks of food, gear and supplies. Best-of-all, Just Show Up and start enjoying! Stay A While!Once you Just Show Up! You will want to extend your stay and take in all that Destina-tion RVing has to offer!

Visit your local dealer and see a Heartland RV for yourself. Follow this link http://www.heartlandrvs.com/services/find-dealer pick a destination brand and enter your zip code to find the nearest dealers.

Good Travels and Thank YouWithout you we would be just another RV company! Remember, “Home is where your Heartland is!”

email from info@heartlandrvs.com

Heartland Highlights

2015 Quarter Two 27

Gateway 3750PT

Heartland Gateway Fiver Offers Side Patio Area

Based on one of its most popular floorplans, Heartland Recreational Vehicles is seeing strong consumer response for its new Gateway 3750PT luxury fifth-wheel, sporting four sliderooms, two true queen-size beds and a 60-square-foot side patio.

General Manager Paul Craven reported that the latest addition to the Gateway line is breaking new ground in the full-profile fifth-wheel marketplace. “The 3750PT is one of just a few units to offer a side patio in a non-toy hauler floorplan,” Craven said in a press release. “It’s also the only fifth-wheel floorplan that offers two true queen beds – one in the front master bedroom and the other in a rear of the RV. “We were able to accommodate a 60-inch-by-80-inch queen in the second bedroom by engineering a tilt mechanism that reduces the bed size when the two opposing slides are retracted. With the slideouts open, the room is approximately 13 feet wide.”

Craven noted that the Gateway 3750PT was adapted from Heartland’s hot-selling 3650 model, allowing for a quick rollout in time for the heart of the early show season. “The insight we gained from engineering and building world class toy haulers allowed us to adapt the side patio into a full-profile fifth-wheel,” he said.

Targeting growing families with two available bunkhouse sliderooms, the 41-foot fifth-wheel creates a spacious, homelike environ-ment that extends to the outdoors with the side patio area. “With the two bunk slides, it can sleep up to seven people,” Craven said. “Essentially, the patio creates an additional room, letting people get off the ground and

Photos of the new

Gateway 3750PT

still enjoy the outdoors.” Standard patio features include an overhead awning along with a large TV, built-in refrigerator and safety rails.

Spacious living area in the Gateway 3750PTSliding glass doors with a built-in screen lead from the patio into the 3750PT’s kitchen that is set off by solid-surface countertops and a “stone-look” base cabinet. The living area is outfitted for entertaining with spacious seating on a couch equipped with four recliners and a chaise lounge. A 40-inch TV is located in the kitchen for central viewing.

“The 3750PT has been selling extremely well on the consumer show circuit,” said Coley Brady, vice president of sales and marketing for Heartland, a subsidiary of Thor Industries Inc. “Our dealer partners are telling us that it creates a new niche in the rapidly growing full-profile segment, adding another value piece to their lineup.”

President Chris Hermon added, “The Gateway line continues to excel and deliver unbeatable floorplans that resonate with buyers. It is now the market leader in its segment, which was accomplished in just 2 ½ years. More good things are coming soon for this brand.”

Other options on the 3750PT include a six-point electric leveling system, residential refrigerator, prep for a generator, dual pane windows and a king bed in the master suite.Craven said that Heartland will be adding another “industry-first” floorplan in the coming months. For more information on the Gateway 3750PT visit the Heartland home page at heartlandrvs.com.!

by RVBusiness, submitted by Paul Craven, Gateway General Manager

Heartland Highlights

28 2015 Quarter Two

North Trail

North Trail Stands Above the Competition

dirt, debris and are continuously being stepped on, not to mention weakening the floor itself and causing “flex.”

3. Two Inch Thick Industry Leading Laminated Side Walls• 25% thicker wall than the competition. The

best place to see this is in the door jamb! All entry doors are 2" thick, if the wall is less than 2" the jamb will extend past the wall ½" or more; because IT’S NOT THERE! (Price being the same and in a lot of cases, it’s more. The competition is saving enough

material to build another coach for every 8 units that is produced.)

• Better insulation in both hot and cold conditions, a stronger build that protects your investment for years to come!

4. Large Finished and Enclosed Pass Through Storage Area• One of the most overlooked an inefficient

areas of a Coach is the pass through storage area. In the majority of brands the only thing separating the bed customers sleep in and the super heated or cooled space of the pass through storage is merely the paneling on the night stands of OSB.

• The space needs to be finished and insulated just like the side walls on NORTH TRAIL.

When asked to talk about the features and benefits of the North Trail brand, it’s easy to point to their top six selling points that separate North Trail from the rest.

1. Crowned Vacuum Bonded Roof• A fully walkable roof, crowned inside and

out with Dual Ducted “H” designed AC system.

• Superior Strength, insulation and cooling as opposed to the majority of competitor’s “trusted” roofs with single ducted AC systems and fiberglass insulation.

2. Vacuum Bonded Laminated Floor

• Constructed of aircraft grade welded aluminum framing with 2" of high dense foam insulation that is laminated between a solid sheet of Marine grade OSB (no 4x8 sheets of floor decking with butt joints like the majority of the competition uses that can squeak and buckle over time as it goes down the road).

• Will not hold moisture and mildew like trussed floors with fiberglass insulation.

• Recessed heating in the walls and cabinetry to provides a clean smooth flooring surface. As opposed to trussed floors with holes cut in the decking for heat registers that catch See NORTH TRAIL, continued on page 29

Heartland Highlights

2015 Quarter Two 29

North Trail

NORTH TRAIL, continued from page 28

Customers don’t give it much thought until it’s pointed out to them and that’s what the competition is hoping for!

• Power Jack Controls are in the storage area out of the weather where they are locked up and can’t be played with at the campground or rest stops.

• Slam baggage doors are standard on all NORTH TRAILS. No 751 Keys!

Trax” was a Heartland industry first to help address those fears. It spreads the centre of gravity out and literally gives it a larger stance. A matter of physics, a bigger footprint equals more stability, less sway in high winds and reduces the wear and tear of rough roads.

• À la carte features you want to keep the price down

EXTERIOR OPTION• “Pearl Package” gel-coat fiberglass option with

or without cap• “Standard” white fiberglass with or without

cap.

5. “Wide Trax” Suspension System

with Dexter Axles

• One of the biggest fears of retail consumers is towing, especially with 28-32' coaches. “Wide

6. Same Quality with Many Price Point Option

CALIBER—Loaded Package• Pull out bike rack, power jacks, power awning,

alum wheels, solid surface counters, porcelain toilet, TV (Pull out bike rack, solid surface and porcelain toilet only available on Caliber, standard.

For more information on North Trail, visit www.heartlandrvs.com.

by Mike Creech, North Trail General Manager

As Spring has arrived, many of us have woken our RVs up from a long Winter’s nap and actually made our first trip out with it. The rest of us may still be waiting for better weather and some of you may still be sitting in your warm Winter location.

I have a Spring message for all Heartlanders. That message is simply, “do a Walk Around” of your RV before you hop in the truck and pull out of your camping or storage site.

Whether we’re conscious of it or not, we all use a pre-departure check-list. For most of us, it’s a mental list and for some, it’s an actual written list. The items on the list are often divided between a two-person RVing team.

My “Walk Around” message should be the last item on your pre-departure check-list. It’s what you should consider doing before you

hop in the truck and pull away with the RV.

Here’s what I do… When my RV is all packed up, disconnected from the utilities, hooked up to the truck etc. and I “think” I’m ready to go, I step about 30 feet away from the RV and walk all the way around it. Here’s what I’m looking for:

• Did I put the rooftop antennas down (batwing and satellite)?

• Did all the jacks come “all the way” up?

• Are the steps in all the way and the step handle folded in?

• Did I leave anything on my site?

• Are my hitch jaws wrapped fully around the king pin?

I’m not trying to recreate a full pre-departure

RV Tip: The Walk Around

in my “Walk Around” list above, but you probably get the picture!

Real examples of why I do my Walk Around1. Earlier this year when camping in real-

cold weather, after using the Auto-Retract feature of my LevelUp, a couple of times, one or two rear jacks did not fully retract. I caught it and used the LevelUp controller in manual mode to retract the jacks;

2. Today, I thought I was good-to-go when I started my Walk Around. Immediately I noticed the roof-top Satellite Dish was still up. Oops.

Consider adding a “Walk Around” at the end of your pre-departure check-list.

by Jim Beletti, Heartland Owners Club President

4 variations available.

Heartland Highlights

30 2015 Quarter Two

Landmark 365 Charleston

The All New Landmark 365 Charleston

Hello everyone! Hopefully by now you’ve all had a chance to look at a new Landmark 365. Your retail response since we launched this product last June at the North American Heartland Owners Rally has been incredible and we thank you for your interest and purchases so far. This summer will be even more fun as we launch three new floorplans.

The first new floorplan, already appearing on dealers’ lots, is the Charleston. When I started in the RV industry at Carriage RV 12 years ago, rear dens were all the rage. Sunken living rooms, split off living rooms, glass door living rooms, any floorplan that had separation from the kitchen to the living room did great. You might have even owned a rear den Landmark back then just as Heart-land was launching as a young company!

We are thrilled with our Charleston—a 5-slide out rear den. Right when you walk in, our beautiful hardwood archway immedi-ately gives the aura of separation from the kitchen to the living room. We decided in the design process to not separate the kitchen from the living room so that both rooms would feel wide open and to allow for conversations from room to room without doors or walls. It worked out great. There is a 65" (yes 65!) TV in the rear den, along with a hide-a-bed sofa across the back wall and optional theatre seating directly across from the TV for maximum viewing angles.

Here are some other wonderful points about the new Charleston:• Fantastic dinette slideout; wider than

typical dinette space in other floorplans.

• Outside cabinet (located behind TV in slide out) that holds a large fridge and cabinets/counter space.

• Wonderful front closet with hidden drawers and digital safe.

Landmark 365 Charleston

• Floor to ceiling kitchen pantry with moveable shelves

• Three 15,000 BTU air conditioners standard

• Dual entry bath with 48" wide shower

We had a dealership this week sell two Charlestons in 8 hours! It is truly a wonderful floorplan that we hope you are able to take a look at in person soon. Thanks for reading and have a wonderful Spring RVing.

by Andy Wesdorp, Midwest/Northeast Sales Manager

Heartland Highlights

2015 Quarter Two 31

Advertisement

Heartland Highlights

32 2015 Quarter Two

Moderator Message

Moderator MessageOwners Forum

The Heartland Owners Forum is an online resource that is open to anyone who cares to read it. For Heartland product owners and prospective owners, it can be a very valuable resource. For others, it can be a fun place to hang out.

Periodically we will see posts on the Forum that question the role of the Moderators. I felt it might be a good time to use the Moderator’s Message in this Newsletter to talk about Forum Moderation.

What is a Forum Moderator?First, they are real people—not computer bots. A fair amount of spam prevention is done “by the system” automatically, but the Moderators are real people.

What is the role of the Forum Moderator?In short, the Forum Moderators are charged with ensuring that the community continues to be a friendly, and helpful resource for all who visit. The Forum is intended to allow Members the opportunity to discuss the good and bad parts of their RVs and their RVing experience, but always with a focus on being helpful and constructive.

The community does an excellent job of staying within this simple charter, but there are occasions when a post goes from passionate to ranting, bashing or become a redundant mess. This is where the Forum Moderators step in and help steer things back on course. While it’s infrequent, sometimes posts are edited slightly, other times posts are deleted entirely. These

Forum Moderation – What’s It All About?

actions are not taken lightly and are often times discussed among the Moderators before severe action takes place.

• Merge threads on similar matters• Audit threads/posts to ensure compliance

with Forum rules. (Auditing includes editing when needed.)

Can, should and how would I contact a Forum Moderator?Yes, you can contact a Forum Moderator. Today, our Forum Moderators are:• Dan Mayer – Forum Username: danemayer• Dave Hromek – Forum Username: cookie• Jim McGee – Forum Username: jimtoo• Michael Kidd – Forum Username: linuxkidd• Terry Hershberger – Forum Username:

Terry HExamples of why you may want to contact a Forum Moderator include:• Assistance on using the Forum (create your

first New Thread, creating your first Post Reply, adding a Profile Signature, Adding a Forum Avatar or Signature Image etc.)

• Changing a thread title• Opening or Closing a thread• Merging threadsSee the example below for how to identify a Forum Moderator. Their username will be in a bold green font and Moderator will appear below their username.

On the Forum, click on any Forum Moderators’ username to send them an Email or Private Message.

The Forum is intended to allow Members the

opportunity to discuss the good and bad parts of their RVs and their RVing

experience, but always with a focus on being

helpful and constructive.

What do Forum Moderators actually do?• Welcome new Forum participants and let

them know that their participation is valued• Review and approve the first two posts made

by all new users (anti-spam feature)• Help set a friendly tone on the Forum• Read nearly every post made to the Forum

(hundreds daily)• Assist users with Forum matters• Assist users with RV matters• Look out for and eradicate spammers

that got past our extensive screening so you never see ads for fake Rolex watches, pornography etc.

• Move New Threads to more relevant sub-forums

• Delete duplicate threads created by the same user

• Edit thread titles to make them more relevant to the subject

• Move posts to more relevant threads See MODERATOR, continued on page 39

Heartland Highlights

2015 Quarter Two 33

Upcoming Rallies at a Glance

Click on the event title to see the thread and view the details on the HOC Forum!

Chapter Rally - Arkansas 5-1 to 5-3 Ozark RV Park, Mountain View, AR 866-692-7578

Chapter Rally - Virginia 5-14 to 5-17 Tall Pines Harbor Campground, Temperanceville, VA Sherri, 757-824-0777

Camp-out - Colorado 5-15 to 5-17 Cherry Creek State Park, Aurora, CO 303-693-3957

Chapter Rally - Utah 5-19 to 5-26 Spanish Trail RV Park, Moab, UT Leslie or Janie, 800-787-2751

Chapter Rally - Ontario 6-5 to 6-7 Wildwood Golf & RV Resort, McGregor, ON Valerie Lucier, 866-994-9699 ext 11 (March 1)

2015 North American Heartland Owners Rally - Indiana 6-9 to 6-15 (Pre-Rally) 6-16 to 6-21 Elkhart County 4H Fairgrounds, Goshen, IN Rally Registration available February 2015

Chapter Rally - Maryland 6-26 to 6-28 Ramblin’ Pines Campground, Woodbine, MD 800-550-8733 or 410-795-5161

Chapter Rally - Iowa 7-10 to 7-12 Hoot Owl Hollow Campground and RV Park, Dubuque, IA 563-580-9453

Chapter Rally - Washington 7-17 to 7-19 Wenatchee River County Park, Monitor, WA Marylee or Mike, 509-667-7503

Chapter Rally - Oregon 7-24 to 7-26 The Mill Casino and RV Park, North Bend, OR 800-953-4800 then hit #3 to get to general reservations.

Region Rally - Northeast 7-30 to 8-2 Copake KOA Mid-Hudson Valley Campground and RV Park, Copake, NY Cathy, 518-329-2811

Chapter Rally - Wisconsin 8-6 to 8-9 Country Roads Motor Home and RV Park, Lake Delton, WI Terri Lynn Michael, 608-253-2132

Chapter Rally - North Carolina 8-21 to 8-23 The Great Outdoors RV Resort, Franklin, NC Sherry or Pat, 828-349-0412

Chapter Rally - New York 8-21 to 8-23 The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone Casino, Verona, NY Office Staff 315-361-7275

Chapter Rally - Michigan 8-27 to 8-30 Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping, Mackinaw City, MI 231-436-5584

Chapter Rally - Minnesota 9-10 to 9-13 Burlington Bay Campground, Two Harbors, MN Odin (Campground Mgr) after May 15, 218-834-2021

Chapter Rally - Montana 9-10 to 9-13 Grizzly RV Park, West Yellowstone, MT Henny White, 406-646-4466

Chapter Rally - Missouri 9-11 to 9-13 Big Red Barn RV Park, Carthage, MO Misty 417 358-2432

Chapter Rally - Nevada 9-11 to 9-13 Sparks Marina RV Park, Sparks, NV 775-851-8888

Chapter Rally - Pennsylvania 9-11 to 9-13 Hickory Hollow Campground, Rockwood, PA Lori Houston 814-926-4636

Chapter Rally - South Carolina 9-11 to 9-13 WillowTree RV Resort, Longs, SC Tammy or Sue 866-207-2267

Chapter Rally - Utah 9-16 to 9-21 Mountain Valley RV Resort, Heber City, UT Cache, 855-901-6100

Chapter Rally - Illinois 9-17 to 9-20 Double J Campground, Chatham, IL Liz 888-483-9998

Chapter Rally - California Central 9-17 to 9-21 Jackson Rancheria RV Park, Jackson, CA Butch and Stacy Joyner (click to contact)

Chapter Rally - Colorado 9-24 to 9-27 Denver West/Central City KOA, Central City, CO Chuck (owner) 303-582-3043

Chapter Rally - Massachusetts 9-25 to 9-27 Country Aire Campground, Charkemont, MA 413-625-2996

Chapter Rally - Indiana 9-30 to 10-5 Shipshewana Campgrounds South, Shipshewana, IN Cindy 260-768-4669

Chapter Rally - Arizona 10-6 to 10-10 Distant Drums RV Resort, Camp Verde, AZ Garry Gilbert (Chapter Leader), 520-455-0237

Chapter Rally - Kentucky 10-9 to 10-11 Cave City RV Campground, Cave City, KY Jeff Lawson, 270-773-4678

Upcoming Rallies at a Glance

See GLANCE, continued on page 39

Heartland Highlights

34 2015 Quarter Two

Rally Wrap-up

Rally Wrap-Up

The New Year came in with a big roar, especially for the folks in the northern parts of the U.S. Snow covered rigs is never a happy sight. We left our Virginia home and headed for Florida seeking a warmer climate in our new Landmark 365/Ashland. It didn’t happen. While we did not see any snow, the cold followed us all the way to Florida and some said we brought it with us!

Anyway, the show must go on and so it did the Tampa Supershow. It was a big one and the new Heartland rigs were on display for all to see. Heartland Club Members were on hand to explain about the Club as well as helping the salespeople with the crowds of people.

Several of the Members even got caught up in the frenzy of the show and purchased new rigs. Keith and Carol Lindgren bought the new Landmark 365 Newport with the office. Nice choice, Keith and Carol. The new Landmark 365s are enticing “classic” Landmark owners such as myself and Kevin and Nelly Wolbeck to purchase new rigs. Kevin and Nelly ordered a 365 Newport to be picked up sometime in April. They chose the second bath for when the grandkids come to visit. The Newport seems to be filling a spot for everyone.

While we originally had good camping sites at Tampa East Campground, the rain changed the whole “good” part with lots of mud for us to contend with. Nevertheless, we all “muddied” on and everyone did a fine job at the show.

Of course any time more than two Heartlanders

Southeast Region

See SOUTHEAST, continued on page 35

get together there are the mandatory potluck dinners and a restaurant meal as well.

All in all, the Tampa show was a success.Julie and I hung around Florida for a while because we really did not want to go back to the cold and snow. We did make it to the Florida Chapter Rally that was held in Sorrento, Florida. Linda and Walter West did a fine job putting on the Rally. The fish fry was a huge success and there were many first time Rally folks in attendance. We even recruited and convinced one couple in the campground to become Heartland Club Members. Welcome JR and Lee Benson, new Club Members, who are going to the Region Rally in Myrtle Beach as well as the 2015 North American Heartland Owners in Goshen, IN. Talk about jumping in with both feet.

The Georgia Chapter Rally was held in Pine Mountain Georgia. Unfortunately, we were not able to attend. All reports are that it was very successful. Randy and Santha Allen always do an excellent job as Chapter Leaders and put on a great Rally.

Upcoming Events in the Southeast Region:April 16 – 19, Southeast Region Rally—will be held at Ocean Lakes Campground, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

April 24 –25, Alabama Chapter Rally—held at Gulf Shores State Park, Alabama. Hosted by new Alabama Chapter Leaders Bill and Susan Mealer. Bill and Susan are the Founding

Jim and some of the setup crew

High level meetings

Heartlanders potluck

Heartlanders restaurant gathering

Heartland Highlights

2015 Quarter Two 35

Rally Wrap-up

SOUTHEAST, continued from page 34

Chapter Leaders for the new Alabama Chapter. I know their first Rally will be a huge success.

May 14 – 18, Virginia Chapter Rally—Do not miss this one! Hosted by the Virginia Chapter Leaders Eric and Dorothy van Opstal, this Rally will be held at Tall Pines Harbor Campground, Temperanceville, Virginia.

Julie and I will have to miss a few Rallies this year in order to build a new house in the great state of Florida. Yes, the cold and snow finally got to us: we want to be some place warm.

Congratulations to the Chapter Leaders of the Southeast Region. Our Region has the most HOC Members and the Florida Chapter has the most Members of any Chapter in the Club.

Southeast Region MembersChapter Members % ChangeFL 99 29%GA 47 14%AL 20 6%MS 9 3%NC 43 13%SC 15 4% TN 46 14%KY 9 3%VA 51 15%Totals 339 22.2%

Just a reminder the 2015/2016 HOC calendars are here. To order one E-mail me at dyocum881@yahoo.com

Till next time, see you down the road.

by Dave Yocum (davebennington), Southeast Region Director

Northeast Region

There’s always great camping in the Northeast. 2015 will be no exception. From the ocean shores of Jersey and Maryland, to the rolling mountains in PA. The finger Lakes in New York are absolutely beauti-ful, and Massachusetts, well, they have just about everything you could want to see.

Starting out the year in Pennsylvania at Old Mill Stream Campground 4/17–4/19 www.oldmillstreamcampground.com in beautiful Amish country in Lancaster County. Come check out a time before satellites, Level Ups and electricity.

Come join the fun June 26–28 at Ramblin’ Pines Campground www.ramblinpines-campground.com in Woodbine Maryland. Conveniently located between Baltimore and Washington DC, so it’s the perfect place to stay if you want to explore those areas.

Pack your bags and head to Copake New York. This year, the Copake KOA

www.copakekoa.com will host the Northeast Region Rally from 7/30–8/02. Point your compass north, it’s sure to be a great time.

Once again, the Villages RV Park at Turning Stone Casino will set the scene for this year’s New York Heartland Rally. Come join us August 21–23

for what will surely be another fun filled Rally. www.turningstone.com.

The fun comes back to PA in September for another great Rally. Nestled in the mountains of western PA at Hickory Hollow Camp-ground www.hickoryhollowcampground.com This Rally will be full of festivals and craft fairs. Come join the fun.

The final Rally of the Northeast will be in Massachusetts. Country Aire Campground will host the Heartland Owners Club Septem-ber 25–27. What a spectacular way to end the year with fall in Massachusetts!

by Jamie and Ginger (& Madison) Walker, Northeast Region Directors

OWNERS CLUB

OWNERS CLUB

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

Introductory Members! Are you ready to upgrade to

FULL-Membership?

We are beginning our new South Central Region Rally season and it has started out with a bang. So far this season we have been to two Rallies, the Louisiana Chapter Rally at the Coushatta Casino in Kinder and the Texas-North Chapter at the Coffee Creek RV park in Santo Texas. Both Rallies have been well attended and as usual, a lot of fun. We have made plans to attend the Oklahoma Chapter Rally at the Choctaw Casino in Durant and the Texas-South Chapter Rally at the Alamo Fiesta RV park in Boerne TX. We

South Central Region

are looking forward to these two Rallies and are sad that we will not be able to attend the Arkansas Rally due to a family conflict.

Our Region is starting to schedule the fall Rallies and we are making plans to attend. If you are in the area or will be traveling there, we invite you to sign up for lots of fun.

by Jay and Stella Coffman, South Central Region Directors

Heartland Highlights

36 2015 Quarter Two

Rally Wrap-up

Our trip to the Rio Grande Valley started January 1st with the weather accommodating us until reaching Arkansas when dismal, rainy weather arrived. While driving through Arkansas we received news from family that our nephew Mark had passed away. Although Mark was a heart transplant recipient he had been doing quite well until the last couple of months. Mark really had a special bond with eagles and the day of his passing his best friend spotted an eagle flying above in the sky.

Gayle and I arrived in Mission, Texas on January 5th. With set up underway, we set out to discover the Bentsen Palms RV Resort. It is a beautiful and very clean park with lots of amenities. I was able to join several jam sessions while in the area and felt improvement to my dobro playing. Meanwhile, there was lots of shopping to do and many restaurants to try. I did attend a Heartland open house at Ron Hoover’s RV, meeting old friends and making new ones. New friends were also made in the park with the promise to keep in touch. After a couple of months in Mission it was time to head for Kerrville, TX, which is one of our favourite places to visit.

We camped at Buckhorn Lake RV Resort and met with people we shared stories with in previous years. Gayle & I had been talking about adopting another dog for company for our Heidi. So with that in mind, we visited the humane society in Kerrville. Although all the dogs were loveable, they were all large breeds. We had decided that we wanted a smaller dog for travelling purposes. As intervention would have it, we met a lady named Kathy, who recently lost her husband and was looking for a home for her eleven year old poodle, as this dog was her husband’s. Kathy also has two cats and a lab to take care of. We have officially adopted our new Heidi, (the same name as our poodle who will be seventeen years in April.). The new Heidi has a long story behind her eleven years,

Canadian Region

but we are certainly going to give her the best of everything in her remaining time with us.

Since Gayle quilts and sews for our grandchildren, she always makes time for a visit to one of her favourite quilt shops. The RV is now much heavier due to all the new fabric purchased. Now if only enough time. We met another couple in this park whom were previously in the same park in Mission with us. We found that we had a great deal in common and hope to meet up with them again next winter with God’s blessing.

I have to mention a day outing to “The Empty Cross” in the twenty-three acre Sculpture Prayer Garden. The Empty Cross is a seventy ton Corten steel sculpture. It is here we met with Max Greiner Jr. who had a vision for a garden filled with sculpture to promote Jesus Christ. We certainly want to be able to come back and see this vision in its entirety.

Our time here is coming to an end as we plan to leave the 3lst of March to start heading home. Gayle and I sincerely hope that your winter has been as fruitful as ours, whether you were able to travel or had to stay at home.

COAST TO COASTBritish Columbia: As we are still without a CL in BC, the BC Chapter has been temporarily aligned with the AB Chapter

Alberta: Chapter Leaders Rick and Arlene Cherry are busy planning for the upcoming season.

Saskatchewan: Chapter Leaders Don & Janina Ewart have tried continuously to attract new Members. Don has travelled to several dealers around the province with his Powerpoint presentation and his efforts are showing results as he just had another Member join. I am truly grateful for all Don and Janina’s work. He has spent a lot of time and not to mention money doing this. Don and Janina plan to travel to Goshen again this summer for the North American Heartland Owners Rally.

Ontario: The Ontario Chapter remains strong with steady growth under Bob and Christine Fournelle. Response is already going well for the 2015 Rally at Wildwood Golf & RV Resort in McGregor, ON. We would like to extend an invitation to all Canadian Heartland owners to join us. For those of you south of the border, come on up! It is only a 4 hour drive from the resort to Goshen, Indiana.

Quebec: Chapter Leaders Robert and Louise Letourneau are still working hard to increase the membership. They are doing a great job and we are hoping 2015 will be a banner year.

New Brunswick: We are still looking for a Chapter Leader in NB as it is now temporarily aligned with Quebec. If anyone interested please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Safe travels!

by Wayne and Gayle Wilson, Canadian Region Directors

Heartland Highlights

2015 Quarter Two 37

Rally Wrap-up

“Kentucky Chapter Rally at Cave City, KY will have lots of fun, fellowship and

food plus live entertainment with Bonnie and Ronnie and their 50’s and

60’s music.”

North Central Region

Do you have your RV ready to hit the road? After long and unseasonal weather, how many of you are ready to go camping? We will be getting the Key Largo all cleaned and shined ready to head to Goshen, IN for the North American Heartland Owners Rally. How excit-ing, this is a 10 year anniversary for the Rally. As for every NAHOR, it will be a great time being able to see friends that we haven’t seen in a year, and making some new ones.

We will be heading out to the Chapter Rallies. The Iowa Rally will be the first one and that will be a fun Rally with a lot of things to see and do. Along with other Rallies it will be a fun filled summer. Check out the Forum Rally section and see where they all are. Sure hope that you will try to fit in as many Rallies in your area or other states. See ya on the road!

by Dan and Karen Halvorsen, North Central Region Directors

Spring has sprung around here, much too soon for those needing a supply of water this summer. I know that isn’t the case everywhere in the country where you all have way too much moisture to deal with.

We intend to start our camping season in a couple of weeks when our new Key West is ready for us from George M Sutton RV in Eugene, OR. We would normally wait until May, but we just can’t wait that long this year! We have to get any bugs worked out before our camping/Rally season that starts the end of June. Our first stop this summer will be Casey’s RV Resort outside Oakridge, OR over the Fourth of July. That is our traditional end of season location too when we have our Oregon Camp-out in October each year. A few Heartland friends will be there too. From Oakridge, we will travel up to Maryhill, WA on the Columbia River for a couple of nights.

Oregon Chapter

Courtesy of John Kramer (jdfishing), shows several people on the boat tour of Coos Bay, OR, last July. We are hoping for warmer weather and a little less wind this year.

I think there will be some Heartland friends joining us there as well. That will take us to Monitor, WA for the Washington Chapter Rally. It is a big one this year! Rod and Kelly have some great ideas built on top of their successes last year. After a week in Monitor, a caravan of 15–20 Heartland coaches will travel together, or as close to it as possible, to Gresham, OR. We will stay there a couple of nights, taking in the sights of Portland, OR before ending up in North Bend, OR at the Mill Casino and RV Park for the Oregon Chapter Rally.

So far we have 23 rigs and the Belettis for the Oregon Rally. We have rig weighing, suspension checks, new product displays, group dinners, a raffle, and who knows what else going on for those few days. George M Sutton RV agreed to partially sponsor our Rally by providing tri-tip beef and BBQ chicken for our potluck and some raffle prizes. They also plan to bring a couple of the new Landmark 365 coaches for people to look at.

We have a few sites left for July 24–26. Anyone in the area is welcome to join us. It promises to be a fun month of camping for us and two great Rallies in a row.

by Kristy and Mark Carlson, Oregon Chapter Leaders

Kentucky Chapter

Happy Easter everyone. Today is April Fool’s day and we are in Charleston, SC. We attended the Georgia Chapter Rally last week and enjoyed seeing so many of our Heart-land friends. As Carol Stanley (TandC) said, “These folks are my second family.” Next week we are visiting with our good friends Dick and Fran Bernard (rodbuster) then on to Myrtle Beach for the Southeast Region Rally. I’m going to “show and tell” some of my woodturnings at the Rally. Please come by so we can discuss my favorite hobby, wood turning.

I want to extend a special invitation to every-one to come to the Kentucky Chapter Rally at Cave City, KY on October 9–11. Check out details on the Forum. Lots of fun, fellowship and food plus live entertainment with Bonnie and Ronnie and their 50’s and 60’s music. The Tennessee Chapter Rally will be the following week just 90 miles South on I-65 in Nashville, TN. Why not plan on attending BOTH!

One last comment, remember that Easter commemorates the resurrection of our Savior Jesus Christ who died for our sins. May God bless you and keep you safe as you travel this year. See you in Myrtle Beach.

by Ken and Faye Hyde, Kentucky Chapter Leaders

Heartland Highlights

38 2015 Quarter Two

Rally Wrap-up

Louisiana Chapter

Well now we have two Rallies under our belts and we continue to grow. For our spring Rally last month we had 16 units total join us (7 Landmarks, 5 Bighorns, 2 Big Countrys, 1 Cyclone and 1 Elkridge) at Red Shoes RV Park at the Coushatta Casino in Kinder Louisiana. We even had the pleasure of hosting the Belettis and the new Landmark 365 Ashland demo coach. The weather was excellent for the most part right up until the big Saturday night potluck. Frank (Little Guy) Baker and Jim Beletti put together a great breakfast potluck on Friday morning and had enough leftovers for Saturday morning as well. The group was split on Saturday with some going to make a deposit at the casino while others made a trip to a local rum distillery and learned about distilling rum with Louisiana sugar cane. Saturday night was gumbo/potluck night and due to the rain we moved the potluck up to the pool. There was a lot of good food and deserts and a few adult beverages. After dinner was cleaned up most headed back to their respective rigs as some were heading home the next day while others were going to stay

another day and try their luck again in the casino. Most everyone got away ok and on time but there were a few last minute fixes that needed to be made for others to be able to hit the road and of course the Heartland Family came together and got them fixed and ready to roll as well. We were last to pull out of the group leaving Sunday and left a great group of friends behind to see on the next Rally down the road.

So now you are asking yourself why did I miss this one and when is the next one? Well our next Rally will be over the Halloween weekend at Cajun RVera Park down in New Iberia LA. The dates for this one are October 30 to November 31. Come early and stay over as

Louisiana Chapter Rally attendees

there is a lot to do in the area such as Avery Island home of Tobasco Pepper Sauce and the McIlhenny Gardens. There are also several plantations that can be toured and the Konriko Rice Mill and Store. And oh yeah, can’t forget about the great seafood you can find down this way either. We hope to have a great turnout at this Rally and we continue to build on our growing Rally attendance. So please check out the Rally threads on the Forum and sign up and make reservations to attend all of the South Central Region’s Chapter Rallies this fall. The four of us hope to see you at one of them at least!

by Andy and Joanna Grimes, Rowdy & Kaydee, The Wieners Louisiana Chapter Leaders

Join us on Minnesota’s North Shore at the Two Harbors Campground. It’s a city owned camp-ground located right on the shores of Lake Superior! There’s awesome views of the lake

Minnesota Chapter

and great views of shipping on the Great Lakes! Enjoy the fall colors and the many shops and restaurants on Minnesota’s North Shore!Reservations: Odin (Campground Mgr) after

May 15, 218-834-2021. Click here to visit their website. by Tom and Kathy Ireland, Minnesota Chapter Leaders

Heartland Highlights

2015 Quarter Two 39

What a long, cold winter we just lived through! Now that spring has hopefully arrived, we are turning our thoughts to warmer temperatures and getting the RV ready for the upcoming travel season. For those of you lucky enough to have escaped winter, we trust you are either on your way to Canada or back home safely.

Registration for the 7th Ontario Chapter Rally is OPEN! As of March 31st, we have 14 Members officially registered for the event. Great stuff!

We would like to extend an invitation to our neighbours to the South to join us at our upcoming Chapter Rally in McGregor, Ontario, Canada the weekend prior to pre-Rally festivities commencing in Goshen. McGregor, Ontario is situated just across the Michigan (Detroit) border and a mere 3½ hour drive to the Elkhart County Fairgrounds.

Our Rally site at the Wildwood Golf & RV Resort is idyllic, spacious sites, all pull-thrus, and all for $45/night Canadian [tax included]. Heck, with the current US $$ exchange, it is almost “free”!

The Ontario Chapter will also be well represented at the North American Heartland Owners Rally 10th Anniversary with 20 rigs registered to date. This currently ties us with the Michigan Chapter for the most rigs registered from one Chapter. If you have been considering attending, come and join us! There are still spots available. Let’s try and make Ontario #1!

Registration is now OPEN for the 7th Annual Ontario Chapter RallyEVENT: Ontario Chapter RallyWHERE: McGregor, ONWHEN: June 5–7, 2015

Ontario Chapter

Rally Wrap-up

Chapter Rally - Texas North 10-9 to 10-11 KE Bushman’s Camp, Bullard, TX Vonda Ross, 903-894-8221

Chapter Rally - Oklahoma 10-15 to 10-17 Choctaw Casino RV Park (KOA), Durant, OK 800-562-6073

Chapter Rally - Tennessee 10-16 to 10-18 Nashville KOA, Nashville, TN 800-562-7789 or 615-889-0282

Chapter Rally - California South 10-30 to 10-31 Pechanga RV Resort, Temecula, CA Bob Hartsell, 951-699-0946

Chapter Rally - Louisiana 10-30 to 11-1 Cajun RVera, New Iberia, LA Danielle, 337-256-8681

Camp-out - Arizona 1-21 to 1-24, 2016 G7 RV Resorts, Salome/Brenda, AZ Garry Gilbert (Chapter Leader), 520-455-0237

Chapter Rally - Arizona 2-23 to 2-28, 2016 Tucson/Lazydays KOA, Tucson, AZ Garry Gilbert (Chapter Leader), 520-455-0237

Chapter Rally - Arizona 1-10 to 1-15, 2017 Lake Havasu State Park, Lake Havasu, AZ Garry Gilbert (Chapter Leader), 520-455-0237

GLANCE, continued from page 33

Who do Forum Moderators work for and what do they get paid?Forum Moderators are Heartland product owners just like you. They are not employees of Heartland RVs. They are volunteers who give a significant amount of their time “daily,” to keep the Forum running smoothly. All Forum Moderators are selected by and report to the Forum Administrator.

by Jim Beletti, Administrator, Heartland Owners Forum

MODERATOR, continued from page 32

VENUE: Wildwood Golf & RV Resort RATE: $45/night (tax included) *Cash

ONLY*EXTRA PERSONS: over 13 years of age $5/night plus HST. Children 5–12 years $1/night per person.

CABLE: (available) $2/night plus HSTGATE CARDS: $20 (Refundable)RESERVATIONS: Contact Valerie Lucier, 519-726-6176 or joelucier@aol.comwww.wildwoodgolfandrvresort.comTRAVEL NOTE: Directons to Wildwood Golf & RV Resort • 401 to Manning Road – Exit 21 • South on Manning Road to #3 (also

known as County Rd 34) • Turn East onto #3 to North Malden Rd. • Turn West onto North Malden Rd. to

Concession Rd. 11 On Manning Road you will eventually see

Wildwood Golf & RV Resort signs posted along the way.

Ontario Chapter Member Growth We continue to grow! As of March 31, 2015 our Membership is at 68, with 6 new Members along with 2 expired Members, in the last quarter.

by Bob and Christine Fournelle, Ontario Chapter Leaders

Heartland Highlights

40 2015 Quarter Two

area fill up very fast in the summer, so reserve early if possible. They will only hold all of our sites or add more until April 30th and after that they will take them as needed. If you are planning on attending please take the time to send me an email or PM me on the Forum with arrival date and HOC number. Discounts for the ferry to Mackinac Island are available along with shuttle service from the campground. More information will be posted as time draws closer. As of now Deb-bie and I plan on arriving no later than 8-25. Hope to see you there.

Michigan Weekend Camp-outs While NAHOR and Michigan Chapter Rallies are a lot of fun, we don’t have to have just planned events in order to get together. If you have an interesting place several of us could get together, check with the camp-ground and see if they have room for us for a weekend get-together, then let me know at gerry7476@gmail.com. These would work best not placed too close to our Rally or the NAHOR, although some may consider some-thing like this en route or on the way home from one of the Rallies. Spring RallyWe had planned on setting up a spring Rally, but unfortunately due to a number of circum-stances on our end we were unable to do this. Hopefully some of those things are behind us and we can try again next year.

Rally Wrap-up

Spring has finally broken and those of us who spent the winter here are happy for it. For those who spent the winter away, Wel-come home and travel safely. It is time for us to get our RV ready for a great Michigan summer. If you have had your rig in storage during the winter don’t forget to do good safety check, bearings, brakes, suspension, etc. before taking your RV on the road.

2015 North American Heartland Owners RallyThe NAHOR in Goshen, June 16–21 will be the 10th anniversary of the Heartland Rally. I am sure Jim and his team have something really special in the planning stages. Let’s try and have a great turnout from Michigan. In 2013 our Chapter had the largest turn-out of any state. I hope to see you all there. Sites are still available as of this Newsletter. Debbie and I will be there on June 8th on site 408. Feel free to stop by. We will also be having a Meet-and-Greet for all the Michi-gan Members along with some others. I will let those there know as soon as I know the activity schedule.

2015 Michigan Summer RallyFor those who attended out 2014 Rally in Ludington, Thanks for attending. For 2015 we have already reserved the group area and Rally building at the Mackinac Mill Creek campground in Mackinac City. The Rally dates are August 27–30. We have 32 sites reserved as of now. This campground and

Michigan Chapter

Membership in the Michigan Chapter of the Heartland Owners ClubFor those Members who joined three years ago, you may renew for one year for $10, $18 for two years or $26 for three years. You will receive an e-mail 60 days prior to the date and then 30 days prior. Please renew—we don’t want to lose you. I hope our new Members will join in the fun. There is also a 1 year introductory Membership available. All of this information can be found under the Por-tals tab on the Forum. If you know of other Heartland owners please invite them to join. For those who have continued their member-ship, thank you. If you are one of the few who have let yours expire, please reconsider and join us at a Rally. This membership allows you to attend any Rally in the country.

Debbie’s Corner: Heartland Baby BlessingsTime is getting near: If you crochet, knit or quilt, the Heartland Members participate in the ‘Heartland Gives Back’ initiative—Heartland Baby Blessings. Blankets, hats and other items are donated at the NAHOR to organizations for distribution to hospitals, shelters, etc. I have a huge stack of hats (well over 100) crocheted and continue to make them. Join in and let them know MICHIGAN CARES. We would possibly like to add a charitable aspect to our Rally next year. Any ideas: Let us know! by Gerry and Debbie Atkinson, Michigan Chapter Leaders

Florida Chapter

Walter and I held our Florida Chapter Rally this year at Wekiva Falls RV Resort Sorrento,FL, March 20–22 and as usual we had almost a week of fun. It started on Tuesday March 17 with a St. Patty’s dinner which all that were there for the pre-Rally contributed to and enjoyed. On Thursday we

had our annual fish fry and after last year’s it became very popular, with 60 people there topartake. Friday we had our potluck and more food than we could eat as usual. Saturday evening we had a catered meal and everyone really enjoyed themselves. We had introduc-tions with lots of new Members and gave

away lots of prizes. Sunday we said our good-byes with everyone asking where the next one would be. Not sure yet, but planning already. See you down the road!

by Walter and Linda West, Florida Chapter Leaders

Heartland Highlights

2015 Quarter Two 41

Rally Wrap-up

It’s getting to be camping weather! I hope everyone is planning trips, especially to Goshen for the 2015 North American Heartland Owners Rally. We can’t wait. It’s such fun seeing old friends and making new ones. In addition, there are seminars, vendors, and food.

The Texas - North Chapter just had our Spring Rally in Santo, TX. We had several first time Ralliers. There was lots of food, games and visiting to be had. The Club provided breakfast Saturday morning that included eggs, bacon, sausage, gravy, biscuits, etc. ExploreUSA in Fort Worth, TX provided the BBQ meat for our potluck on Saturday evening. It was delicious! Frank Baker was our official photographer…Thank you! Go

Texas - North Chapter

to our Rally thread on the Forum to see the pictures. I’ve included our group photo here.

Make plans to attend our Fall Rally, October 9–11 at KE Bushman’s Camp in Bullard, TX. If you plan it right, you can attend our Rally, the Louisiana Rally, Oklahoma Rally and Texas - South Rally, (not necessarily in that order) in one trip.

We are getting ready to head out to the Southeast Region Rally in Myrtle Beach. We hope everyone has safe and fun travels this Spring! See you on the road!

by Nancy A. and Dave Seabolt, Texas-North Chapter Leaders

With spring upon us, fellow Heartlanders are out enjoying camping at both Chapter and Region Rallies. And of course, the 2015 North American Heartland Owners Rally in Goshen, IN is fast approaching in only two more months. The Tennessee Chapter is also looking for-ward to another great Rally in 2015. Already several folks are planning a pre-Rally trip to the Grand Ole Opry at the historic Ryman Auditorium and others are heading to the golf course. So make your plans to join us October 16–18, 2015 at the Nashville KOA, Nashville, TN, phone number 615-889-0828. Safe travels! by Nathan and Byrd Mathis, Tennessee Chapter Leaders

Tennessee Chapter

Texas - North Chapter Rally attendees.

Oklahoma Chapter

The Oklahoma Chapter’s Spring 2015 Rally kicked off on April 9th at the Choctaw KOA in Durant, Oklahoma. We had 14 total rigs from Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas and Missouri. Had some great food at the Friday night fish fry and potluck, hot dog lunch and Chapter meeting on Saturday and the Roadhouse Steakhouse Saturday night. Some Members went to see Vince Gill at the Choc-taw Casino and John Anderson at Gilley’s. Combine that with the “Dirty Camper Door Prize Game,” some sandbag baseball and “The Battle of the Sexes Trivia Game” and a great time was had by all. Our Fall Rally is scheduled for October 15, 16 and 17, 2015 back in Durant, OK and would love to fill all 25 sites that we have reserved.

by Rex and Stacey Hastey, Oklahoma Chapter Leaders Oklahoma Chapter Rally attendees.

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42 2015 Quarter Two

Rally Wrap-up

Rally Recipe

Anyone wishing to submit a recipe for publication can send their detailed recipe to

Ann Mayer at txannmayer@yahoo.com

Ingredients:3 large zucchini1.5 lbs boneless & skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1” pieces½ tsp cumin1 tsp salt, divided¼ tsp ground black pepper2 tsp any small hot pepper/jalapeno or to taste, seeded and minced1 medium or ½ large lime, juiced¾ cup cilantro, choppedCooking spray or 2 tbsps coconut oil

Directions:1. Using a spiralizer or mandoline, make

zucchini noodles, transfer into a large

Cilantro Lime Chicken with Zucchini Noodles

bowl and set aside. You can also chop zucchini into any size pieces, if you don’t have the gadgets for making zucchini noodles.

2. Preheat a non-stick skillet on high heat and add chicken. Saute until golden brown, stirring occasionally. Add cumin, ½ tsp salt and ground black pepper to-wards the end, stir and cook for another minute. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.

3. Wipe clean or wash the skillet and return to the stove on high heat. Spray with cooking oil or add oil and add zucchini noodles. Saute for 1½ minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and add previously cooked chicken, remaining salt, small hot peppers/jalapenos, lime juice and cilantro. Stir gently and serve hot.

Nutritional Info:Servings Per Recipe: 4Amount per Serving: 2 CupsCalories: 221.4Total Fat: 2.0 gCholesterol: 82.5 mgSodium: 718.1 mgTotal Carbs: 9.0 gDietary Fiber: 2.7 gProtein: 42.0 gWW Points+: 5

by Ann Mayer, Heartland Highlights Recipe Reporter

Our dear Recipe Reporter, Ann Walker, passed away ealier this year. Heartland owner and full-timer Ann Mayer has graciously accepted to take on the Recipe Reporter role for 2015. Look forward to unique and healthy choices that will make great offerings for potluck, or simple meals as you enjoy your RV travel. — Editor

Members of the Colorado Chapter have had several Meet-and-Greets over the winter months in Denver (Jan.), Pueblo (Mar.) and Colorado Springs (Apr.). This is the second year the Chapter has been having these and they are popular, they keep everyone in touch plus we find out what others are planning for the upcoming camping season.

Several of our Members managed to get out of Colorado and go to warmer climes during our cold months. John & Cathy Daniels and Mary & Phil Ochoa attended the Arizona Rally in Quartzite; Gregg & Linda Wibbels went to the Texas Hill Country for a short time; and Monica & Don Ashby, Brian & Jan Lajoie, and Bob & Dorothy Wright went to the Sweetheart Rally in Texas.

Our upcoming activities for the spring and summer include our “Annual Shakedown Camp-out” at Cherry Creek State Park May 15–17, 2015 and a boondocking Camp-out at Camp Hale Memorial Campground in July. Our Fall Rally will be September 24–27, 2015 at the Denver West/Central City KOA.

As always, safe travels to all!

by Monica and Don Ashby, Colorado Chapter Leaders

Colorado Chapter

Heartland Highlights

2015 Quarter Two 43

Rally Wrap-up

Alabama Chapter

Changes came early to the Alabama Chapter this year. Previously, Alabama and Mississippi were combined as one Chapter which was known as the AlaMissiBama-Sippi Chapter. At the end of 2014, Chapter Leaders Hogan and Donna Cooper stepped down and Susan and I were asked if we would be willing to be the new Chapter Leaders for Alabama—as Mississippi would soon have its own Chapter Leader. Susan and I dis-cussed the opportunity and decided we would attempt to continue the great leadership of Hogan and Donna as best we could and see how things go.

We have our new badges and a new Heartland Owners Club banner—and we’ve scheduled our first Spring Rally for April 24th through the 26th. For the last few years, the Spring Rally has been at Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores, Alabama—and we’re continuing that tradition this year.

We have 14 rigs registered for the Rally already and are hoping to see a few more

sign up as the Rally date quickly approaches. We are fortunate that the Blue Angels will be practicing in Pensacola on April 21st and 22nd, and the annual Bama Coast Cruise (Car Show) is being held at the Wharf in Orange Beach from the 23rd through the 25th as well, which will offer some exciting things to do both before and during the Rally. In addition, side trips to the outlet mall and to many of the great seafood restaurants in the area should satisfy everyone’s interests. We also plan to have a demo of how to pack wheel bearings Saturday morning—and we have several door prizes to be given away at our potluck dinner Saturday night, too. Plenty of downtime will be available to those that prefer to just sit back on the beach and “put your toes in the sand with a cold drink in your hand.”

We’re looking forward to kicking off the year in grand fashion—and with WARM weather —to get the old juices flowing. Several who are attending also will be heading to Goshen for the 2015 North American Heartland Owners Rally in June. We may even decide to travel up there in a “con…voy”! (“Breaker Breaker 19! How-bout-cha BigDaddy!”)

We all thank Hogan and Donna for their years of devotion to the Chapter and the great leadership and friendly welcome offered to everyone they meet. They, too, have signed up for the Rallies in Gulf Shores and Goshen— and hopefully will keep Susan and me pointed in the right direction to continue the tradi-tions and friendships they helped foster. by Bill and Susan Mealer, Founding Alabama Chapter Leaders

“We are fortunate that the Blue Angels will be practicing in Pensacola on April 21–22, and the

annual Bama Coast Cruise is being held April 23–25.”

Pennsylvania Chapter

Well, we kicked off the 2015 Northeast Rally season in the great state of PA. Once again, we return to Old Millstream Campground located in wonderful Lancaster County. A total of 22 rigs were there in full force showing off their Heartland pride. After a long brutal

winter in the Northeast, it was great to smell the smoke of a campfire once again. It was wonderful to see old friends and we had a great showing of new Rally attendees this year. New faces, telling new stories. The Rally

began Friday evening with a pizza party Meet-and-Greet. It was great catching up with everyone again. Saturday started out with a nice break-fast, then later that evening, you guessed it, more FOOD, a traditional potluck dinner. What a great way to start out the year. So glad that the 2015

Rally season is finally here! Hope to see you down the road.

by Jamie and Ginger (& Madison) Walker, Northeast Region Directors

Enjoying the Pennsylvania Rally

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44 2015 Quarter Two

Rally Wrap-up

Virginia Chapter

As you read this, the 2015 Virginia Chapter Rally held at Tall Pines Harbor Campground on the Virginia Eastern Shore is over. The gathering of Heartland friends lets me reflect on what Heartland RVs and the vision and creation of the Heartland Owners Club by Jim Beletti have meant for me. It amazes me to this day that our decision 6 years ago to purchase a camper and do what we had only dreamed of doing would so change our lives. Was it fate that we fell in love with a Heartland product? Being absolute novices to the RV world, our RV education started at RV trade shows. Seeing all the different makes and models was fun, but we soon narrowed our choice of trailers to a fifth-wheel. I was very impressed with the fifth-wheel trailer tall ceiling height, and wow, you could even have a ceiling fan! But long story shortened, we just loved the Heartland Sundance, and so began our Heartland saga.

We then became aware that a group of other Heartland owners were Members of a Club, and, a Rally (we had no idea what a Rally was) was planned in Virginia not too far from our home. So, Club Members we became, and then Rally after Rally we attended, whenever and wherever we could. Friendships blossomed, so much so that we started to refer them as members of our “Heartland Family.” We somehow were labeled as “Rallyholics,” as we would attend 10 or more Rallies each year. We were having a grand time, so much that I soon

wanted a larger trailer (meaning bigger basement and more storage room!), so I convinced my better half that another Heartland trailer would suit us well. We traded our Sundance for a Big Country, and our attendance at Heartland Rallies continued.

Believe me, by now our Heartland family had really grown! And that is why I am so amazed. How else would we have met so many wonderful and caring people from all walks of life and from all corners of our great country? Heartland did it! Our Club did it! And so we say THANK YOU Jim Beletti and Heartland RVs. You made it happen. So to those who are part of our “family,” and feel the way we do…we hope to see you soon at the next Rally. And to those who have not yet been to a Rally…give it a try. It may change your life as well.

by Eric and Dorothy van Opstal, Virginia Chapter Leaders

“How else would we have met so many

wonderful and caring people from all walks

of life and from all corners of our great

country?”

“We would like to welcome Jim &

Colleen Marigliano as Wagonmaster for the 2015 Rally and

the New York Chapter Leaders for 2016. We

feel very comfortable with Jim and Colleen

in this leadership role.”

The Wyoming Chapter is awakening from its winter slumber and looking forward to a wonderful camping season! Our fall Rally is planned for September 10 through the 13th in beautiful West Yellowstone, Montana. September is a perfect time to visit Yellowstone National Park and the greater Yellowstone area. Wildlife is

Wyoming Chapter

abundant, elk are bugling, temperatures are moderate and traffic has eased. Grizzly RV Park is a stone’s throw from the entrance to Yellowstone. We have a few spots left so, join us.

Award winning outdoor photographer, Meg Sommers, will be attending and has graciously

offered to host a photography class. To learn more about Meg and view her work follow this link: http://www.megsommers.com/. Please contact us through the Rally thread for more information.

by David and Amy Tardiff (& Tucker), Wyoming Chapter Leaders

New York Chapter

The New York Chapter Rally is on August 21–23 at The Villages at Turning Stone. We are excited that the winter is behind us! We have 49 HOC Members in our state. We would like to welcome Jim & Colleen Marigliano as Wagonmaster for the 2015 Rally and the New York Chapter Leaders for 2016. We feel very comfortable with Jim and Colleen in this leadership role, they have attend many Rallies within our Region and out and we our excited to watch the Club grow in the future.

Beth and I have enjoyed the last 6 years putting on Rallies and meeting so many great Heartland Members along the way! Check the date and come join us for a great time in August! See you there! by Beth and Greg Dean, New York Chapter Leaders

Heartland Highlights

2015 Quarter Two 45

Rally Wrap-up

Happy Birthday to the Arizona Chapter! One year old as of February 2015. At the writing of this news article, our little Arizona Chapter structure has really changed. In 13 months we have gone from 0 Members to 42 RVs, 81 Members and 8 Chapter children. Our last Rally was in January at Quarzsite, AZ and was a huge success with 31 RVs in attendance. We currently have three more Rallies posted, October 2015 in Camp Verde, February 2016 Tucson Rodeo Rally and January 2017 Havasu Balloon Festival Rally. The October 2015 and February 2016 Rallies are almost sold out. The Havasu Balloon Festival Rally will be a very special Rally. We are honored to have been able to secure the entire State Park in Havasu for this Balloon Festival Rally. You will not have to leave the park to be right in the middle of the fun. The park has extremely wide open sites and is located right on the River just down from the famous London Bridge. We currently have 18 RSVP’s from the 43 total sites in the State Park. We welcome all Heartland Members to join us in what will be an amazing time! We would love to fill all 43 sites and make this location a complete Heartland Rally venue. Come Join us!

Other activities include our three Meet-and- Greets each year, concluding with the Arizona Wine Growers Wine Festival on April 17–18, 2016. We will meet at my ranch for a short get together and head a mile away, over to a fun

Arizona Chapter

filled festival. Over 20 wine growers, food court, international Chili cook off, vendors and live bands throughout the day. This event is really a hoot. Last year over 2,000 people passed through in two days. If you are in the area, we would love for you to join us. Tickets may be purchased on line address is on our Thread and the code word Heartland will get you a 20% discount.

Once again I would like to thank all the Heartland Members for participating in our activities. Each Rally has been represented by a number of Heartland Chapters and everyone is always welcome to join in on whatever the Arizona Chapter is hosting.

See you all in Goshen as we have seven RVs arriving from the Arizona Chapter. by Garry Gilbert (and Dakota), Arizona Chapter Leader

Wisconsin Chapter

Camping in “God’s Country” with all the rolling meadows, bluffs and streams not to mention all our natural beauty in our State and County parks. It’s simply a wonderful time of the year to enjoy all life has to offer here in Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin HOC Rally is quickly ap-proaching and if you want to attend you need to make arrangements with Country Roads RV and Motorhome Park in Lake Delton. Click the link on the events calendar in the Heartland Owners Club website. We plan on having a great Rally for you because it is about YOU! Remember our Rally is August 6–9 and we are looking forward to seeing you all there. We again will be featuring a Thursday Meet-and-Greet, a Friday night Wisconsin brat cookout and entertainment, Saturday’s “Wine and Chocolate” tasting, a trip to the Sheriff ’s shooting range for those who wish to test their marksmanship skills and our Rally potluck. Sunday we will have a continental breakfast for everyone prior to starting your trip home. There will also be discount coupons for those who wish to enjoy the Wisconsin Dells and surrounding area attractions. Also Scenic Traveler RV, one of our great sponsors, will again provide minor repair service to your RV units on Friday.

If you are planning to attend the NAHOR in Goshen this year we will be planning on having a Wisconsin and S.O.S. (some other state) “get together” sometime early on in the Rally and I will email you with those plans when they come together. I will retrieve your name from the attendees list provide by the Rally. All are welcome to attend.

Jackie and I are wishing you all a great camping season and we will see you in Goshen in June.

by Terry and Jackie Spencer, Wisconsin Chapter Leaders

Arizona Chapter Rally attendees

Heartland Highlights

46 2015 Quarter Two

Rally Wrap-up

Naturally as a camping family, one of our favorite comedies is the movie RV. During a hilarious journey of misadventures in a garish green RV rental, Bob Munroe (Robin Williams) rediscovers himself and reconnects with his family. Bob sums up his experience in one line toward the end: “If you ever really want to find out about yourself, put your family in an RV and drive.”

Three years ago we decided to our ourselves in a Heartland North Trail and drove all over Iowa. This was our first solo foray into the RV world, though we had experience from staying with family many times in their RV. So what did WE learn? It was a terrific way to spend family time and for creating memorable experiences for our kids. We had a blast getting ourselves unstuck from logs and sandbars while canoeing on the Maquoketa River. Knees might have gotten scraped and some tears cried, but our kids got right back on those bikes while learning to ride during our campground stays. And along the way, we’ve met some pretty nice folks like those in

Iowa Chapter

the Heartland Owners Club to share s’mores and stories around the campfire.

And we want you to be part of our camping adventures! Come join our Chapter Rally, July 10th – July 12th at the Hoot Owl Hollow Campground and RV Park in Dubuque, Iowa. This cozy campground is nestled in the gorgeous wooded hills and farmlands on the western side of Dubuque. With a pool, a playground and a creek running along the edge of the campground, it’s a great place for families and grandparents to bring their grandkids!

Campground details:• Call 563-580-9453 and mention Iowa

Chapter Heartland Rally when making your reservations

• 12 sites will be held until June 1• Campground website

http://www.hootowlhollowcampground.com • Address: 1650 Middle Rd, Dubuque, IA 52002• Pets are fine and no fee • WiFi available: No

• Credit cards are not accepted

The Rally schedule:• Friday night 7PM: we’ll pour up some root

beer floats and pop up some popcorn for a Meet-and-Greet

• Saturday morning 8:30 AM: join us for breakfast

• Saturday evening 5:30 PM: Bring a delicious dish for the potluck dinner. We’ll provide a main dish.

• Sunday morning 8-9 AM: light breakfast of donuts, coffee, juice and milk

Plus there is so much to see and do around Dubuque. Check out the Rally Forum for various sites and attractions!

Here in Iowa, the grass is getting greener and our kids are itching for their bikes and fishing poles. Time to hitch up our Heartland and get driving!

by David Lippe and Shel Greek-Lippe, Iowa Chapter Leaders

Texas - South Chapter

South Texas is off and running with the Rally season in Boerne, Texas. While the weather was on again, off again the Rally looked like it was starting early because eleven of the sixteen rigs that signed up actually showed up two days before the Rally. What a way to start! Alamo Fiesta RV Park has a specific set of sites for Rallies so it was not a problem

for the early arrivals and for the early arrivals the dominoes were brought out early. When we completed the head count on Saturday we found 10 of the 16 Members were first time Texas-South Rally attendees, but they are now long time friends.

The weather went from clear and warm to cloudy to rain and back to clear, every day. Welcome to Texas. Friday night two gallons of ice cream was made to disappear. Saturday morning Ron Hoover RV brought in two dis-play rigs and 80 breakfast tacos. It sure got quiet when those tacos arrived. The weather was able to stay bright and sunny Saturday so several attendees went into town to check

out the Corvette show and what a show it was. Several Corvette clubs got together and there were 250+ Corvettes and miscellaneous other older vehicles so the trip downtown was a real pleasure. Saturday night the potluck brought out a variety of dishes. After dinner our Colo-rado friends brought out the Fireball and…well, you know. Sunday there were several discussions about where and when the next Rally will be and it appears that late October and and sites in in the Corpus Christi area are favored. I’ll update everyone as soon as we get it nailed down. Until then travel safe.

by Tom and Marti Mangum, Texas-South Chapter Leaders

Texas-South Chapter Rally attendees