As a proud sponsor of the Vermont Children’s Hospital Big Change Roundup, Pete’s RV Center was exceptionally pleased to hear that the 2012 event eclipsed expectations and raised a record-breaking amount of more than $224,000!

The following are excerpts from thank you notes sent to us from the exceptionally hard-working event organizers:

“Unbelievable is all I can say!  Thank you and in turn your entire team at Pete’s RV Center for being such a crucial part of our 2012 Big Change Roundup for Kids.  Thanks to your provision of the Coach for Kids, We have made history once again, as you know, setting an all-time record and raising over $220,000 this year!  The support provided by people like you in our community is how this happens.  We are proud to be able to partner with Pete’s RV Center on this event.  Without your generosity, the event would certainly not be as incredibly successful as it is.”–Lewis R. First, M.D., Vermont Children’s Hospital at Fletcher Allen Health Care

“Thanks Pete’s RV…again we couldn’t get it done without you!“–Steve Pelkey, Operations Manager, Hall Communications Inc.

“Thanks so much for the use of the RV.  Your generosity had a direct impact on the success of this year’s drive.”–John R. Brumsted, MD, President and CEO, Fletcher Allen Health Care

We are grateful to all of those involved with this event and special thanks to each and every donor.  You are helping to make a positive “change” in the lives of critically injured and sick kids from all over Vermont.  Well done everybody!

Pete’s RV Center was named the #1 Vermont dealer for 2011 by Statistical Surveys*.  Nearly half of the travel trailers, fifth wheels, and motorhomes purchased in the state last year were sold at their South Burlington dealership.

“We are extremely proud of this award,” said Vice President of Sales Todd McGinnis.  “It wouldn’t be possible without our valued customers.  We thank them not only for their purchases, but also for spreading the good word about Pete’s RV to friends and family in Vermont and surrounding states and provinces.  Even in this age of the internet and social media, old-fashioned word-of-mouth referrals are still a gold-standard.”

McGinnis furthered his comments by acknowledging Pete’s RV employees:  “There’s no way we achieve number one RV dealer status without the incredible efforts put forth by every employee at Pete’s RV.  Everybody at the dealership can use this accomplishment as a motivator for continued success in 2012.”

*Statistical Surveys, Inc. is located in Grand Rapids, Michigan and compiles data from official state records.

Welcome to our Spring Edition e-newsletter!  As always, we look forward to sharing recent news, events, information and tips with our dedicated community of campers and RVers.

We only need to look as far as our service center to know that the 2012 camping season is here! Our service technicians are hustling to get hundreds of RVs de-winterized and prepped for another year in the great outdoors.

In recent news, Pete’s RV Center was named the #1 Vermont dealer for 2011 by Statistical Surveys.  Close to half of the RVs sold in the state last year came from our South Burlington location.  We are extremely proud of this accomplishment, thank our customers for making it possible, and look forward to building on this success in 2012.

Thanks for thinking Pete’s RV!

Recent Pete’s RV Bloglines

Pete’s RV Buyer Tips: Bullet Premier Travel Trailer Features

Pete’s RV Buyer Tips: Camper Rental Vs. Buying a Camper

Manager’s Choice:  Sprinter Copper Canyon 324FWBHS Fifth Wheel

The Copper Canyon 324FWBH Fifth Wheel has an enormous bunkhouse, extra deep U-shaped dinette, and full-service outdoor kitchen. Throw in the amazing master bedroom with queen bed, side aisle bathroom, generous storage, and you’ve got yourself a pumped-up version of the popular Sprinter 311BHS travel trailer!

View pictures and features for the new Copper Canyon 324FWBHS

Top Views on PetesRV.com*

Sprinter Travel Trailers

Outback Travel Trailers

Cougar Fifth Wheels

Bullet Premier Travel Trailers

Vantage Travel Trailers

Honorable Mention:  Montana Mountaineer Fifth Wheels

*Top Views made possible by Google Analytics.

Pete’s RV Best Buys:  Biggest Selection of the Year!

If you are looking to buy used, this is the best time of the year to do it.  Our inventory of used RVs has never offered such a wide selection of best buy deals.  Pounce on these low, low priced units before it’s slim pickings!

Click to View All Priced to Fly Best Buy Deals!

Customer Feedback

“Have been bragging non-stop to everyone about our fantastic purchase experience with PetesRV.  It’s not all that cool to talk price, but there’s no way to avoid the subject when trying to convince folks on our good fortune.  We don’t fail to mention the over-the-top customer service as well…My hat is off to everyone at Pete’s RV for bending over backwards to far exceed our expectations”–Max and Jill H. from Abilene, TX

Read more feedback about Pete’s RV!

Pete’s RV Store:  Protectall Rubber Roof Cleaner

Reduces rubber roof maintenance up to 75%! Enhanced formula is a blend of proven polyolefin compounds that is even quicker and easier to apply than before. Just mop on and air dry!

Tough, polymer coating with UV protectant provides a durable shield that gives your rubber roof a longer lasting, anti-static coating. Regular Price - $52.29 Now $40.87 plus FREE Shipping

More Spring Cleaning Items on Sale Now at Pete’s RV Store!

April’s Pete’s RV Store Gift Card drawing winners are Ted M. from  Wheatfield, IN and Rodney B. from Topeka, KS. Congrats!

RV Service Tips: De-winterization of Water System

If purchasing a coach which is winterized with RV anti-freeze, or having had an existing unit winterized before winter storage, the plumbing system must be flushed and sanitized prior to use. Do not attempt to turn on water heater if system is winterized.

For detailed steps on  water system de-winterization, read the complete tutorial in Chapter 9 of the Keystone RV Owner’s Manual.  It does a nice job summarizing maintenance for RV plumbing systems. A PDF version of the Keystone RV Owner’s Manual is available on the Pete’s RV website.

RV Q and A:  RV Stabilizer Jacks

Question: At what point do I put my stabilizer jacks down to level my camper?

Answer: Putting down your stabilizer jacks should be the last step in the leveling process.  It’s important to mention that stabilizer jacks are just that: Stabilizers.  Do not use them to level your camper.  They are not strong enough to support this function and should be only lowered to a snug position.  Successful leveling is completed with proper wheel heightening and tongue jack or landing gear adjustment.  Don’t forget to chock!  For more info check out Pete’s RV Service Tips Video: How to Level Your Camper

What’s New on Pete’s RV TV:  RV Accessory Essentials

RV Lifestyle Consultant Chad Shepard and Senior Walkthrough Technician Ed Cormier provide guidance to new RV buyers on camper accessory essentials. Most newbies know about the special toilet paper, sewer hoses, wheel chocks, etc. But less are aware of other practical accessories that extend the life of your camper and provide a more enjoyable camping experience.  Read on and view Pete’s RV Buyer Tips Video: RV Accessory Essentials

Congrats to Facebook Friend April gift card winner Jaime A. from Williamstown, VT! Like Pete’s RV on Facebook for Special Discounts, Giveaways & Promotions.

Camping Recipe:  Caramel Apple S’Mores

What you need

Green Apple Slices

Marshmallows

Caramels

Directions

Slide the marshmallow onto a skewer then add one to two caramel candies to the top of the skewer. Toast the marshmallow and wait for the caramels to melt over the marshmallow. When toasted, place the toasted marshmallow on an apple slice and top with a second apple slice.

This and more yummy camping recipes available at CampingCafe.com!

We hope you enjoyed this edition of Pete’s RV eNewsletter and welcome your feedback.  Feel free to let us know what you like about it and how we can make it even better for our community of RVers!

August 2011’s tropical storm Irene left a path of devastating flooding and wind damage across Vermont.  Abel Mountain Campground in Braintree was among the many businesses crippled by the storm.

With the owners and campers at Abel Mountain rallying to rebuild for 2012, Pete’s RV wanted to lend a helping hand in getting the campground back on its feet.

Recently, a group of Pete’s RV employee volunteers gathered after work one night and assembled ten hardwood picnic tables for donation to the campground.

The solidly constructed tables will be a welcome site to campers when Abel Mountain reopens in the Spring.  Owners Karen and Paul Rea expressed their gratitude in a note to the dealership, “The support we have received from family, friends and businesses like yours has been incredible.  We appreciate it very much and wouldn’t be where we are today without it!”

A relatively mild winter this year has been a big help in getting repairs completed.at Abel Mountain Campground.  At their current pace, owners will be able to reopen for Memorial Day weekend and be fully operational by July 1st.

Pictures of the volunteers in action assembling the picnic tables are available on the Pete’s RV Facebook page.

Welcome to our Winter Edition e-newsletter!  As always, we look forward to sharing recent news, events, information and tips with our dedicated community of campers and RVers.

After a whirlwind 2011 and a little downtime for the holidays, Pete’s RV is right back at it in 2012.

PRV Team - Schererville, Indiana	PRV Team - South Burlington, Vermont

Before getting too embedded into the new year, we want to acknowledge everybody that helped make last year a success for Pete’s RV Center.

From employees, family, friends to our valued customers, your hard work, support and loyalty are the embodiment of what has kept Pete’s RV around for more than a half century.  THANK YOU!

This year promises to be just as exciting.  Between our Indiana and Vermont locations, Pete’s RV is capable of showcasing all of the newest and brightest Keystone RV Company products.  We invite you to check them out at our dealerships, website, and to stay informed through the newsletter, blog and Facebook.

We hope you enjoy this edition of Pete’s RV eNewsletter and welcome your feedback.  Feel free to let us know what you like about it and how we can make it even better for our community of RVers!

Thanks for thinking Pete’s RV!

Recent Pete’s RV Bloglines

Happy Customer Travels 1000 Miles to Pick Up Montana High Country 313RE Fifth Wheel

Pete’s RV Buyer Tips: Outback Travel Trailer Features

Pete’s RV Kicks Off 2012 at Chicago Boat and RV Show

Pete’s RV Buyer Tips: Montana Fifth Wheel Features

Manager’s Choice:  2012 Premier Bullet 30RLPR

The new for 2012 Bullet Premier 30RLPR plants two cushy swivel chairs right in front of of a huge rear picture window. It’s a great spot for two people to enjoy their morning cups of coffee! The Bullet Premier 30RLPR can sleep six comfortably with a queen bed, generous U-shaped dinette and air bed sofa. There’s also tons of storage space in several hardwood cabinets, a convenient corner pantry and laundry chute.

View pictures and features for the new Premier Bullet 30RLPR

Top Views on PetesRV.com*

Passport 199ML (Rear Bathroom) Travel Trailer
Sprinter 272BHS (Bunkhouse) Travel Trailer
Cougar X-Lite 28RBS (Bunkhouse) Travel Trailer
Premier Bullet 29REPR (Rear Living Room) Travel Trailer
Outback 210RS (Rear Slide Bedroom) Travel Trailer
Honorable Mention:  Vantage 32FLS (Front Living Room) Travel Trailer

*Top Views made possible by Google Analytics.

Pete’s RV Store:  Reversible Horse-Pattern Patio Mat

Horses have always symbolized the freedom of the American West – now you can bring that feeling with you wherever you go!

Reversible 9’x12’ patio mats have a two-sided horse design with a “good-luck” horseshoe border.  Durable, lightweight, and available in five attractive color combinations.  Now only $79.99!

INCLUDES FREE STORAGE BAG & STAKES ($20.00 Value) PLUS FREE SHIPPING!

February’s Pete’s RV Store Gift Card drawing winners are Richard D. from Valparaiso, IN and John D. from Lenox, MA.  Congrats!

RV Service Tips:  Caring for Fiberglass / Gel Coat Finish

Care of the Filon finish is similar to caring for a new car. Exposure to extreme sunlight, pollutants, and excessive moisture can cause dulling, fading and yellowing. Regular washing and periodic waxing will help maintain the glossy new look. When washing, use a mild, automotive or RV wash solution, available at your dealer, being sure to rinse off any loose debris first. Waxing the Filon areas twice a year is recommended. Wax with a non-abrasive automotive wax or polish developed for fiberglass (boats, RV’s) and follow the directions closely.

For further reference on care and maintenance, read the complete tutorial in Chapter 6 of the Keystone RV Owner’s Manual.  It does a nice job summarizing interior/exterior care and maintenance. A PDF version of the Keystone RV Owner’s Manual is available on the Pete’s RV website.

RV Q and A: RV Covers

Question: Do you recommend the use of RV covers?
Answer: Yes. Compare a vehicle stored inside to one being stored outside and uncovered for the same period of time.  The stored vehicle is clearly in better condition.  Any time you take a vehicle out of the elements, its exterior AND interior are preserved. Using a cover is essentially the same thing as putting your RV inside for the winter.  An RV cover prevents fading, debris collection, and water damage.  With extreme temperature shifts, leaks may be caused by the expansion and contraction of RV’s joints, seals and seams.  A cover keeps these exposed areas isolated until the spring when they can be promptly repaired.

Customer Feedback

“We were so impressed on the teamwork that went on at Pete’s RV. Everyone was friendly and got the job done! Not one employee working on our camper questioned anything they were asked to do! Very professional service!! I see the business realizes it’s not all about the sale! Great service is so important. We are anxious to hit the road in our unit. Again, a great experience at Pete’s RV!”–Rob and Karen S. from Sheldon VT

Read more feedback about Pete’s RV!

What’s New on Pete’s RV Facebook Page and YouTube

Outback Travel Trailer Features	2012 Chicago Boat and RV Show	Montana Fifth Wheel Features

Congrats to Facebook Friend February gift card winner Steven S. from Milford, MA!

Add Pete’s RV as a Friend on Facebook to Learn About Special Discounts and Promotions.

Pete’s RV Best Buys:  Take a Look!

We’ve got some ridiculous deals on new and used RVs.  If you are a bargain hunter, now’s the time to pounce on these low, low priced units.  Browse all available Pete’s RV Best Buys!

Camping Recipe:  Campfire Pepperoni Pizza (from CampingCafe.com)

Description:
Pizza usually ranks high on the list of “favorite” foods.  With prepackaged foods it’s easy to prepare at camp on a grill, over a campfire or in a pinch, a camp stove.

Ingredients:
1 or more prepared pizza crust - like Boboli
Pepperoni
Pizza Sauce (Contadina makes one in a plastic squeeze bottle - perfect for camping)
Mixed Italian cheeses
Olive Oil
Metal tongs
Heavy duty tin foil
Optional: Crushed red pepper and Parmesan cheese

Preparation:

1. Prepare grill or campfire for indirect cooking.
2. Brush top of prepared pizza crust with a little olive oil.
3. Place directly on grate oiled side down and cook for a minute or 2 until golden - careful not to burn it. Remove from heat.
4. Place crust bottom side down on a double layer of tin foil.
5. Cover crust with pizza sauce.
6. Top sauce with a generous amount of cheese - you’re camping so calories don’t count!
7. Place pepperoni on top of cheese.
8. Cook on prepared cooking area of grill or campfire for 2 - 6 minutes depending on temperature of fire.
9. Pizza is done when cheese is melted.

Find this and more scrumptious recipes at CampingCafe.com!

It’s always feels fantastic whenever we hear from a customer’s positive experience at Pete’s RV Center.  In this account, Karen drove all the way from Jacksonville, Florida to pick up her 2012 Montana High Country 313RE Fifth Wheel from our Schererville, Indiana location. Now that’s a hike!

Karen found her dream RV on our website and was helped throughout the sales process by RV Lifestyle Consultant Scott Ourednik.  As you will read, she was blown away by our customer service!

Amazing job Scott!  You can read more feedback on the Pete’s RV testimonial page as well as recommendations on our Facebook page.

Under peaceful winter skies, Pete’s RV Center of Vermont held their first dealership show of the year January 20th-22nd.  Promoted as the “Cabin Fever Sale”, Pete’s RV reached out to their community of RVers through local television and radio ads, postcards, email and social media.

Based on the turnout, and where visitors traveled from, the community of Pete’s RVers is expanding quite a ways beyond northern Vermont.

“Over the past couple of years, I’ve noticed more and more people traveling from outside of Vermont to get to our dealership shows,” said marketing manager Phil LeClair.  “The Cabin Fever sale brought in folks from New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Quebec, and across Lake Champlain in neighboring New York.”

He also noted that while Pete’s RV dealership shows are promoted as sales events, they’ve become socially inviting to visitors.  “I love the fact that a growing number of family and friends drop in to show their support for Pete’s RV.  They usually bring somebody new along, give them a tour of the place and all the campers.  Feeling more like an open house, it really puts our guests at ease and disengages thoughts that a sales pitch is lurking around every corner.  I had kids from the youth hockey team I coach show up this year with their parents.  They had a blast!”

Providing visitors with first looks at 2012 inventory, Pete’s RV showcased the new Vantage travel trailer line from Keystone RV Company as well as the Bullet Premier 29RTPR rear living room travel trailer, Cougar 28RBS family travel trailer, and revamped Outback 312BH bunkhouse travel trailer.

Pete’s RV treasurer and co-owner Dave McGinnis explained that a variety of new and used products were sold at the Cabin Fever sale.  “We’re always delighted with a good turnout and selling units so early in the year–especially in the middle of a Vermont winter.  This year’s January sale was interesting because we sold used pop-ups, luxury fifth wheels and everything in between.  From our perspective, this is a good indicator of being able to satisfy a broad range of shoppers looking for certain types of RVs.”

Pictures and comments can be found on the Pete’s RV 2012 VT Cabin Fever Sale Facebook Photo Album.