Posts tagged with "road"

Lamborghini by relli Public Relations, US via 360 Magazine

Pirelli – Lamborghini Urus Performante

THE FIRST PIRELLI P ZERO TROFEO R FOR SUVs IS BORN WITH A RECORD FOR THE LAMBORGHINI URUS PERFORMANTE

The latest custom tire for the newest Lamborghini joins the six tires already produced by Pirelli for the Urus

The Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R has set a new benchmark, conquering the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb on the Lamborghini Urus Performante in record time for the category. This same tire was chosen by Lamborghini as the original equipment for the newest version of its super SUV.

From the start, the Urus was already homologated with six variants of Pirelli tires: P Zero tires in 21, 22, and 23 inches, designed to ensure high performance on the road; 22-inch P Zero Corsa covers for fun on the track; as well as 21-inch Scorpion Zero All Season and 22-inch Scorpion Winter equipment to drive on any terrain and in low temperatures. Joining them is now the 22-inch P Zero Trofeo R: the most performance-oriented Pirelli tire of all, specifically intended for the track but also approved for the road.

It marks the very first time that Pirelli has adapted a P Zero Trofeo R for the needs of an SUV: this latest evolution tire for the Lamborghini Urus Performante is able to offer high performance in a wider range of conditions and temperatures than the standard P Zero Trofeo R. The new tire is also capable of conquering some of the most famous roads in motorsport, such as the epic Pikes Peak Hill Climb course in Colorado. With multiple hill climb champion and Pirelli test driver Simone Faggioli behind the wheel, the Performante recorded a time of 10m32.064s: beating the previous class record of 10m49.902s, set in 2018.

Like all Lamborghini tires, this particular P Zero Trofeo R was born out of the close collaboration between Pirelli and Lamborghini, which dates back to 1963. The technological partnership that binds the two companies is based on the ‘Perfect Fit’ philosophy: a strategy through which Pirelli develops bespoke tires for each car made by the Premium and Prestige manufacturers it collaborates with. All Lamborghinis can be fitted with Pirelli tires created for the specific features of each model, both as original equipment and on the aftermarket. Pirelli and Lamborghini also have a shared history in competition that goes back more than 30 years: from the debut of the Scorpion for the LM002 that contested the Paris-Dakar Rally in 1988, to the current GT World Challenge Europe: exclusively supplied by Pirelli with Lamborghini among the leading teams.

NEW RV WITH CORNER OFFICE

Remote work – it’s what RVers across the country are doing and Fleetwood RV is making that scenario easier with the introduction of its brand-new Frontier GTX Class A Diesel luxury motorhome that features a dedicated office. The Frontier GTX 37RT floorplan includes an office that’s been designed to deliver the space, technology, convenience, and privacy needed by those working from the road.

The Frontier® GTX 37RT is a 37-foot motorhome with three, flat-floor slide outs that deliver plenty of interior room. The Corner Office™ is an option and is strategically located at the rear of the coach so it’s away from daily life activities.

“We developed the 37RT office configuration after listening to our current customers, as well as new owners entering the RV space,” said Doug Miller, product manager for REV Recreation Group’s Class A products. “We found quite a bit of interest in the ability to work remotely and have children engage in distance learning. Based on that, we wanted to offer a floorplan that could accommodate the new reality of living, working, and educating anywhere.”

The space is cleverly arranged and includes an L-shaped desk with a built-in monitor and multiple nearby outlets. A large window tops the desk to bring in natural light and deliver a view of the outdoors. Drawers below and cabinets above provide convenient storage within easy reach for files and other supplies. A stylish barn door of frosted glass and wood closes off the space when ultimate quiet and privacy are needed. To ensure phone and video calls go off without a hitch, the GTX offers an optional connectivity package that includes WiFi Ranger™ Sky4 ProPack w/LTE and weBoost® Cell Booster.

“If you think about a family who’s traveling in a 37-foot RV, activities can continue in the main living area of the coach while someone is in the secluded office conducting a call, responding to emails, or taking a test,” said Miller. “We feel the 37RT floorplan provides privacy, flexibility, and function without sacrificing any of the features and amenities that are important to RVers.”

Frontier GTX Specs

The Frontier GTX model is built for a smooth and powerful drive on the open road and is stocked with upgrades that make RV life easy.  

  • Freightliner custom raised rail chassis that delivers stability and allows for full pass-through basement storage
  • Freedom Sport Foundation
  • Cummins® 6.7L, 360HP engine
  • Allison® 3000 series, 6-speed transmission
  • 10k towing capacity
  • Aqua-Hot® 400D for on-demand hot water
  • 8.0 KW Onan® generator
  • 100-gallon fuel tank and 100-gallon freshwater tank 

The Frontier GTX is available in two floorplans – the 37RT and 39TA. The interior of each boasts significant luxury appointments.

  • Full flat floor throughout the coach
  • Polished porcelain tile flooring
  • All-electric appliances, including a residential-sized refrigerator, induction cooktop, and convection microwave
  • Beautiful solid surface countertops in the living area, kitchen, and bathrooms
  • The kitchen also features a stainless-steel farmhouse sink and glass tile backsplash
  • Privacy window surround 

Frontier GTX Floorplans

The Frontier GTX is initially rolling out two floorplans – one that features an office and another with a unique bed configuration – and will expand the line in 2023 with one additional floorplan. 

37RT – With its three slides, including a full wall on the passenger/patio side, the 37’ RV can easily accommodate a family or traveling couple. The front living area features a Dream Dinette that quickly converts from a table into a bed and a queen sleeper sofa that can be upgraded to power motion loungers. For who would like extra sleeping capacity, an optional Hide-A-Loft drop-down bed with an LED TV can be added. For coziness, the 37RT offers a standard electric fireplace in the living area. The all-electric kitchen with top-tier appliances also includes a pantry and the lavatory features a roomy 38” x 30” shower with a glass door. The master bedroom is a dream with a king bed and deluxe wardrobe closet. The closet is decked out with a dresser, hanging wardrobe space, pull-out hamper, overhead shelf storage, and numerous drawers. An optional side-by-side washer/dryer can also be specified. The Corner Office™ takes a portion of the wardrobe area to create the ultimate “work-from-the-road” option that’s available to RVers.  

39TA – At 39’ and with two slides, the 39TA offers its own set of well-thought-out features. To begin with, both slides are located on the driver’s side, which means the passenger side of the coach is completely free for outside patio entertaining under the RV’s large awning. In addition, the coach’s luggage bays are easily accessible. Next, the front of the coach features the exclusive multi-purpose Adap-table® Dinette that serves as a convenient workstation or breakfast bar for two. By swinging the table out vertically, it easily hosts a dinner party for four.

In addition, the 39TA offers the much-sought-after 1-½ bath configuration. The full bath is located mid-ship with a half bath situated in the rear of the coach off the master bedroom. The layout means family members and guests have easy access to the full bath, which keeps the master area more private and less trafficked.

Finally, the master suite features a “north/south” queen bed. Instead of being against an outside wall, the bed is positioned in the center of the room, which allows ample space to walk around and easily make it in the morning. For those who like to watch TV in bed, a drop-down LED TV in the ceiling comes standard. Behind the bed and its headboard is a walled space that accommodates the half bath along with wardrobe storage.

“Another advantage of the “north/south” bed is the fact that, since the bed isn’t housed in a slide, it can remain fully extended while the coach is moving. That means you can access the entire bed and take a nap even when the slides are in,” explained Miller. “We’re extremely excited about each of the GTX floorplans because they are innovative in their own way and are designed to give RV owners exactly what they’re looking for.”

The Frontier GTX from Fleetwood RV has a starting MSRP of approximately $400,000. 

Fleetwood RV® is a brand within REV Recreation Group, Inc., a subsidiary of REV Group, Inc.  

To see the latest Fleetwood RV models and for travel tips and ideas, visit FleetwoodRV.com or follow Fleetwood RV on Facebook and Instagram.

Arctic Lake via Scarlett Casciello for use by 360 Magazine

Arctic Lake – Breathe

English alternative pop duo Arctic Lake is back with the emotionally bare single “Breathe,” out now via Astralwerks. The slow-burning, gently driving song, produced by member Paul Holliman, comes with a fittingly evocative and intimate video. Listen to “Breathe” HERE and watch the video HERE.

“Breathe” finds vocalist Emma Foster pleading with a partner who’s closed off, she’s desperate for more connection, feeling suffocated by the relationship’s limitations. Shimmering synths slink around her voice as she asks, “Can I find what’s underneath, won’t you let me know you?” Eventually, a rush of vibrating electronics takes over, but not without her slipping in one more simple request: “I’m just wanting you to hold me.” The video for “Breathe” feels just as personal, with Foster front and center against a blood-red background, her soul-baring lyrics projected right on her face, exposing every vulnerability.

“Breathe” follows 2021’s electro-kissed single “Lonely,” Arctic Lake’s “steamiest track yet” according to House of Solo. The duo also recently built up a following with a handful of collaborations, like their ZHU team-up “Yours“, which peaked at #16 on Billboard’s Hot Dance/Electronic Songs chart, as well as the feel-good track, “House Music” with German DJ Boris Brejcha, and “Road” with producer Lane 8. But “Breathe” builds on Arctic Lake’s more minimalist, sultry soundscapes, which Tongue Tied Magazine describes as “breathtaking, electromagnetic anthems” that are “simply unmatched.”

Arctic Lake’s blend of emotional songwriting and inventive production has won the attention of fans and critics since they self-released their debut single, “Limits,” in 2015. Since then, their following has grown to over 1 million monthly listeners on Spotify. As they prepare more new music for 2022, Arctic Lake is ready to lure more listeners into their colorful world.

Road Trip via Mina Tocalini for use by 360 Magazine

How to Drive a Class A Motorhome

With so many Americans embracing the RV lifestyle, there’s bound to be a learning curve on how to drive and manage a large motorhome.

Holiday Rambler® has partnered with Spencer and Kristi Blu from the Adventurtunity Family to share their experiences as they travel the United States in a 2017 Vacationer® 36H from Holiday Rambler with their four-year-old son Kade and puppy Ruko Blu. The family purchased their 37-foot RV in July 2020 and started living on the road full time that September.

Since then, they’ve chronicled their adventures on Instagram and the Holiday Rambler blog.

Holiday Rambler is an award-winning brand within REV Recreation Group, Inc., which is a subsidiary of REV Group, Inc. The Holiday Rambler 2022 line includes four diesel and three gas motorhomes, including the Vacationer model that the Adventurtunity family owns.

Dad Spencer does the majority of the driving of the family’s Holiday Rambler and recently shared his tips and advice for handling a Class A motorhome in a blog post.

Learning to Drive a Class A Motorhome by Spencer Blu from Adventurtunity Family

There is something about learning to drive a Class A motorhome that gives some people pause when they are trying to decide what type of RV to buy for their family.  It was one of the most frequent questions I got when we brought home our Vacationer.  Friends and family alike would look at it and say, “That’s a beautiful motorhome…no way I could drive that!”  Or something like, “That’s gotta be so scary to drive. How did you learn?”  If I’m honest, Class A’s were not at the top of my list when we started looking for an RV because I had never driven anything nearly that big!  But, the reality is that it’s not all that daunting.  And, like anything else, the more you do it, the better you get!

So, to help put nerves at ease for those considering a motorhome purchase, I’m going to be talking about the aspects of driving a Class A motorhome to give you a better idea of what it’s like, how it differs from driving a passenger vehicle, and ideally give you the confidence to go take that test drive! 

To be clear, I am not an expert or an instructor.  The ideas and thoughts are based on my experience driving our Holiday Rambler Vacationer with a gas engine.  I have not driven a diesel pusher, and, while I understand there are some fundamental mechanical and operational differences, the concepts below should by and large apply to either platform.

The First Drive

“So, you want to take it for a drive?”  Those words hit me in the face like a right hook from Mike Tyson.  My family and I were standing in the living area of a beautiful Holiday Rambler motorhome.  It was the very first RV we went to look at when we started our search. We had been given the tour and were honestly a little giddy with the thought that it could possibly be our new home for an incredible journey to come!  And then the seller asked that question and I was snatched right out of my daydream.  “You mean right now?” I said, as if his question was poorly timed.  I mean I knew it was coming, we were there as potential buyers. I certainly wouldn’t buy a car without driving it, this shouldn’t be any different, right?  So, after about a 15 second internal pep talk, and the realization that, if I was going to drive this thing across the country, I had to start somewhere, I said, “Let’s go!”  And you know what?  It wasn’t nearly as big a deal as I had made it out to be in my head!  So now I can say with confidence that if you’re hesitant about getting a Class A because you lack the experience to drive it, don’t be.  You can do it, and you’ll be glad you did!

The Basics of Driving a Class A Motorhome

Let’s get the obvious out of the way off the bat.  Regardless of what length the coach you decide to get is, it will be bigger and heavier than what you’re used to driving.  By a lot.  I had driven a few rental box trucks before. But none of them even came close to the size of our 37-foot-long Vacationer. Time and space will be your biggest allies as you pilot your coach!  So, as long as you keep these fundamental things in mind every time you turn the key, you’ll be in good shape.

  1. Know your height and weight (fully loaded). Write them down on a sticky note and place it on the dash where you can see it.  Better to know you won’t fit under an overpass before you get to it than to find out while you’re stuck under it.
  2. Take left turns wider than you think you need to, and right turns even wider.  As nicely as these machines can handle being on the road, they will not turn on a dime. 
  3. Allow yourself additional space to get up to speed with traffic.  More importantly, leave plenty of space between yourself and the vehicle in front of you to slow down. Acceleration and braking distances are greatly increased in a vehicle this size.

Road Signage

Another thing that you will realize is that there are a lot of road signs that now apply directly to you as the driver of a large vehicle. You will start to pay attention to all those signs you ignore when driving a passenger vehicle.  Those suggested speed signs for off-ramps and sharp curves you always thought were comically slow will all of a sudden make perfect sense when cruising in your rig.  You’ll also want to be aware of height and weight restriction signs that may now apply to you when approaching bridges and overpasses.  A quick glance at that aforementioned sticky note will be quite helpful! 

When travelling in mountainous or hilly regions you will want to keep an eye out for signs that tell you the grade percentage of an upcoming steep climb or descent.  You’ll definitely want to slow down when approaching a steep descent.  Manage your speed by gearing down and braking intermittently to save your brakes. The “Runaway Truck Ramp” signs you see on steep downhills are there for a reason and you do not want to have to use one of them!

What it boils down to is that you’ll now need to take note of all the signs that are there for truck drivers.  While you may not be driving an 80,000 lb. tractor trailer, you are closer to their level than you are to the Honda Civics buzzing around you on the road.  So being aware of those signs will go a long way in helping you arrive safely to your destination!

Conclusion

And there it is my friends!  I knew nothing and had zero experience the first time I drove our coach.  But I took my time and made sure to be very aware of my surroundings.  It really is enjoyable once you get comfortable and familiar with your coach.  Hopefully this information helps give you some confidence to go find that Class A you and your family have been dreaming about!  You’ll be rolling down the road to adventure in no time!  By the way, we ended up buying that Holiday Rambler Vacationer.  The very first one I drove is the one we own, and I couldn’t be happier!

CELEBRATE LABOR DAY VISITING MANUFACTURING SITES THROUGHOUT THE U.S.

Curated by the Holiday Rambler® Brand

The long Labor Day weekend is an ideal time to sneak in a warm weather road trip before temps begin to cool off. For RVers and travel lovers looking for something different, try visiting a few manufacturing sites suggested by Holiday Rambler.

While many traditional manufacturers haven’t reopened their factory tours, there are still plenty of interesting (and tasty) companies to visit for a behind-the-scenes look. Think potato chips, baseball bats, whisky, cars, hot sauce, and more. The ten sites on the Holiday Rambler travelogue start on the East Coast, dip into the South, wind through the Midwest, head into the Mountain states, and finish on the West Coast. Each stop is paired with a recommendation for a local establishment that’s a bit different from the norm, along with an RV park.

While Holiday Rambler has temporarily suspended its factory tours, the brand has released a series of four videos showcasing how its motorhomes are made at its manufacturing headquarters in Decatur, IN. The exclusive tours deliver a peek into a few of the steps involved in manufacturing a 16,000 to 30,000 lb. Class A motorhome. To watch the factory tour videos, visit Holiday Rambler’s website, select the About tab, click on Factory Tours, and provide an email address.

Holiday Rambler RVs are known for their superior functionality and luxury design amenities that allow travelers to explore far and wide with confidence and in comfort. The 2021 Nautica model from Holiday Rambler earned Best New Model from RV Pro and Top RV Debut from RVBusiness. Nautica is a Class A Diesel motorhome that is less than 40′ and built on a Freightliner Custom Chassis®. While the Nautica is shorter in length, it still boasts a roomy interior with lots of storage. Amenities include an electric fireplace, stainless steel appliances, pantry storage, master bedroom suite with a skylight shower, and an exterior entertainment center with a 50″ LED TV.

Holiday Rambler is a Class A RV brand within REV Recreation Group, Inc., which is a subsidiary of REV Group®, Inc. For more information, visit HERE.

Please note: each manufacturing stop has been researched but be sure to call ahead to confirm hours of operation, advance ticketing requirements, and other relevant details. Be sure to travel safely by following the CDC guidelines related to COIVD-19.

10 Manufacturing Stops from Holiday Rambler

Cranberry Bog Tour – Harwich, MA

The U.S. is the world’s leading cranberry producer and MA is one of the leading cranberry growing states. Take a scenic drive to the largest organic cranberry bog on Cape Cod. During a 90-minute tour, learn about the 12-month operation of a bog. Before or after the tour, visit the farm stand for all things cranberry – fresh and dried cranberries, cranberry sauces, cranberry bog honey, and cranberry cookbooks.

Daily tours are offered throughout the spring, summer, and fall, reservations are required, and tickets are $15 each.

To experience the local culture, grab a bite to eat at Mooncusser’s Tavern­­ or Brax Landing, which offers waterfront dining on the Saquatucket Harbor. RVers can stay overnight at Adventure Bound Camping Resorts.

UTZ Potato Chips – Hanover, PA

For snack lovers, the Utz Potato Chip Trip is a must. In 1921, William and Salie Utz began making potato chips in their summer kitchen. 100 years later, the company continues to be family managed and has expanded to make a number of other brands, including Bachman, Zapp’s, Dirty, TGI Fridays Snacks, and Good Health.

This free, 30-45-minute self-guided tour lets visitors see (and smell) the process that starts with farm-fresh potatoes and ends with crispy Utz chips. An observation gallery, closed-circuit monitors, and audio program deliver interesting details about the production process. And, of course, the tour ends with a bag of Utz potato chips and a coupon to the factory outlet store – the perfect place to stock up on road-trip snacks.

The tour is open Monday – Thursday but call ahead to confirm the hours since the daily production schedule is subject to change.

Staub’s Landing Restaurant and Pub is nearby and offers lunch and dinner options, including the area’s best burgers and a selection of more than 60 craft beers. RVers can stay overnight at Gettysburg Farm RV Campground.

Maker’s Mark Distillery – Loretto, KY

Visit one of the most picturesque production sites in the country to learn about the history of Maker’s Mark bourbon whisky. Watch the fermentation process, see the charred oak barrels used to age whisky for five to seven years, and don’t miss the bottling area where workers hand-dip the top of each bottle in Maker’s Mark’s signature red wax.

The origin story of Marker’s Mark is relatively new, dating back to 1953. It began when Bill Samuels, Sr. purchased an existing distillery in Loretto, KY, and began making whisky based on his family’s 170-year-old recipe. Maker’s Mark is unusual because it uses red winter wheat in its mash bill instead of rye. And, instead of the American spelling of “whiskey,” Samuels chose “whisky” to pay homage to his Scottish-Irish heritage.

All tours must be booked online in advance and all guests must be 21 years of age or older.

Visit LaGwen Drive In that’s known for its home-made chili sauce, hamburgers, and hand-dipped cones. RVers can stay overnight at Elizabethtown Crossroads Camp.

Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory – Louisville, KY

Louisville Slugger got its start in 1844 when 17-year-old Bud Hillerich played hooky from work to take in a Louisville Eclipse baseball game. When the team’s superstar hitter broke his bat, Hillerich offered to make him a new one. 177 years later and Louisville Slugger remains family owned and proudly produces 1.8 million wood and aluminum bats a year.

The fun begins outside with the world’s largest baseball bat that stands 120 feet tall and is a replica of Babe Ruth’s 34-inch Louisville Slugger. During the factory tour, walk through the production line to see a few of the 22 steps that turn raw wood into a sleek bat. Each visitor walks off with a better understanding of this iconic brand, along with their very own souvenir mini-bat. After the tour, check out the baseball museum that’s dedicated to the game and some of its legends.

Tickets for the museum and factory tour range from $16 to free and reservations are required.

Afterwards, get a Southern fix of ribs, beef brisket or shrimp and grits at Hammerheads. RVers can stay overnight at Elizabethtown Crossroads Camp.

Ford Rouge Factory Tour – Dearborn, MI

The Ford Rouge Factory dates back to 1917 when Henry Ford first began developing the site. His vision was to achieve “a continuous, nonstop process from raw material to finished product.” At its peak in the 1930s, more than 100,000 people worked at the expansive industrial complex, and one new car rolled off the line every 49 seconds. Today, the Rouge Factory is an example of engineering and modern manufacturing coming together to create one of the country’s most popular trucks – the Ford F-150.

The self-guided tour includes two high-tech theater experiences. The Manufacturing Innovation Theater combines “floating” 3D laser projection mapping and exciting behind-the-wheel footage to take visitors from concept to highway. Top off the tour with a visit to the observation deck to see a remarkable display of industry in motion as Ford F-150s are assembled on the plant floor below.

Tickets to the Henry Ford Museum include the Rouge Factory Tour and are currently limited due to a reduced daily capacity. Tickets should be purchased in advance online.

To continue the “Ford experience,” grab lunch at Ford’s Garage that’s designed to look like a 1920s service station with vintage Ford vehicles, gas pumps, and fixtures. RVers can stay overnight at Haas Lake Park RV Campground.

Wisconsin Foamation Cheesehead Factory – Milwaukee, WI

For a “cheesy” factory tour, look no further than Wisconsin. The tour begins with everyone taking a “Wedge of Allegiance” and continues from there with plenty of groan-inducing jokes. From start to finish, see how cheeseheads are made in a small production facility in Milwaukee. On the deluxe tour, everyone can make their own cheesehead or other style of cheese-inspired hat. FYI – cheesehead was originally coined by Chicagoans as a derogatory term to describe Wisconsinites.

Ralph Bruno started the cheesehead craze in 1987. While reupholstering his mother’s couch, he took an extra piece of foam, cut it into a wedge, added holes, and made it the color of American cheese. He then wore it to a Milwaukee Brewers’ baseball game and, based on the attention and interest from fans around him, began making and selling cheeseheads. Today, cheeseheads are known around the world and can be found in various styles – top hats, visors, sombreros, and more!

The tour that includes a cheesehead hat is 45-60 minutes and starts at $25.

Visit Sobelman’s for a true Milwaukee bar/restaurant experience and be sure to take a look at their Bloody Mary offerings. RVers can stay overnight at Wisconsin State Fair RV Park or River Bend RV Resort.

Budweiser Brewery Tour – St. Louis, MO

Adolphus Busch was a German immigrant and U.S. Civil War veteran who joined his father-in-law, Eberhard Anheuser, in the brewery business after serving in the Union Army. In 1876, thanks to Busch and a friend, the brewery introduced a light-colored beer called Budweiser that Americans loved. Before Budweiser, many were drinking heavy, dark ales so a palatable, crisp lager was appreciated. In 1879, the company’s name was changed to Anheuser-Busch Brewing Association, and in 1880 Busch took over as president after Anheuser’s passing. Busch pioneered the use of refrigerated railcars and pasteurization in the brewing industry as part of his efforts to create the first nationally selling beer in the U.S.

Visitors can choose from a number of different tours. The Beermaster Tour lasts approximately 120 minutes and visits exclusive locations on the Anheuser-Busch campus. The Clydesdale VIP Experience lasts approximately 45 minutes and includes a visit to the stables and time with a Clydesdale handler who will share in-depth information about their lifestyle, training regimens, and mannerisms.

Tour tickets range in price, depending on the experience selected. When booking online, note that some tours are for guests 12 years and older while others are open to all ages.

After the tour, combine Blue’s music with a po boy or red beans and rice at Blue’s City Deli. RVers can stay overnight at Pin Oak Creek RV Park.

Hammond’s Candies – Denver, CO

10 million – that’s how many candy canes Hammond’s Candies in Denver hand makes each year. In addition to that signature cane-shaped candy, the company also produces chocolate bars, rainbow lollipops, and lemon drops. Take a free, 30-minute tour to see how this company that’s one of the oldest candy manufacturers in the U.S. makes its sweet treats.

Hammond’s Candies was founded by Carl T. Hammond, Sr. who quit high school in 1913 and got a job as a candy maker apprentice. After serving in World War I, Hammond returned to Denver and picked up where he left off in a candy factory. With several years of experience under his belt, he ventured out on his own. Early on, Hammond did everything. He developed the recipes, made the candy, sold it, and handled all the tasks required of a fledging business. Today, the company sells its handmade candies worldwide. In the U.S., its treats can be found in Whole Foods, Nordstrom’s, Dean & Deluca, Cracker Barrel and specialty shops.

Tours run every 30 minutes and online reservations are required to ensure availability.

For a self-described “square meal, stiff drink and a fair price,” visit Work & Class. RVers can spend the night at Dakota Ridge RV Park.

TABASCO Factory Tour & Museum – Avery Island, LA

Avery Island, the location where world-famous TABASCO is made, is unique just like the sauce. The island actually rises above the marshes found along coastal Louisiana and sits atop a deposit of solid rock salt that is believed to be deeper than Mount Everest is high.

The TABASCO tour is self-guided and features nine stops including the TABASCO Museum, Pepper Greenhouse, Barrel Warehouse, and TABASCO Country Store (the bottling line stop is currently closed). The Country Store shouldn’t be missed since visitors can taste a variety of TABASCO products, including Tabasco-flavored ice cream and “Original Red” that’s sold in more than 195 countries and territories. The original recipe was created by Edmund McIlhenny in 1868 and has been used by the McIlhenny family for more than 150 years. Most visitors are surprised to learn that only three ingredients are used in the sauce – aged red peppers, salt, and distilled vinegar. Once the three ingredients are combined, the pepper mash is placed into oak barrels, topped with a layer of salt, stored in the Barrel Warehouse, and aged for three years.

Tickets range from $12.50 to free and the tour is open daily.

Check out the Tabasco Restaurant on Avery Island or venture to Landry’s Cajun Seafood & Steakhouse 15 minutes away. RVers can spend the night at Frog City RV Park.

Tillamook Creamery – Tillamook, OR

Tillamook Creamery is the largest tourist attraction on the coast of Oregon and one of the most popular in the state. The creamery offers a free, self-guided tour that shares details about life on a dairy farm, allows visitors to watch milk being made into cheese, and, most importantly, provides complimentary samples. For those who would like to learn the secrets behind Tillamook’s extra creamy ice cream, make a reservation for the small group Exclusive Ice Cream Experience. Get a hands-on look, and taste, of how extra creamy Tillamook Ice Cream goes from milk to market.

Tillamook County Creamery Association (TCCA) was founded in 1909 when several small creameries each contributed $10 to start the cooperative to ensure all cheeses made in the Tillamook Valley would be produced with the same high level of quality. Today, the TCCA is owned by almost 80 farming families, and is proud to make award-winning cheese, yogurt, sour cream, ice cream, and butter.

The creamery recommends visiting during the week to see employees working in the facility. Tickets to the Ice Cream Experience range from $15 – 20 for children and adults.

Just a few minutes away, visit Dutch Mill Café, a ’50s diner with checkerboard flooring, old time booths, and the front clip of a 1957 Chevy. RVers can spend the night at Pleasant Valley RV Park.

About REV Group, Inc.

REV Group® companies are leading designers and manufacturers of specialty vehicles and related aftermarket parts and services. Our companies serve a diversified customer base, primarily in the United States, through three segments: Fire & Emergency, Commercial, and Recreation. They provide customized vehicle solutions for applications, including essential needs for public services (ambulances, fire apparatus, school buses, and transit buses), commercial infrastructure (terminal trucks and industrial sweepers) and consumer leisure (recreational vehicles). REV’s diverse portfolio is made up of well-established principal vehicle brands, including many of the most recognizable names within their industry. Several of our brands pioneered their specialty vehicle product categories and date back more than 50 years. REV Group trades on the NYSE under the symbol REVG. Investors-REVG

Analysis for use by 360 Magazine

New Survey on Vacation Habits

After a year of lockdowns, Americans are ready to hit the road for their summer vacations—and memories of vacations past are fueling their wanderlust. That’s actually been recorded in surveys, including one by Carinsurance.com. According to results, 79% of Americans have taken a family road trip in the last five years and 70% of those families report having the time of their lives during those vacations. 

They’ve also tested which method of transportation people use for travelling. The majority of Americans (68%) prefer road trips for summer travel, compared to 15% of respondents in the annual survey of 1,000 drivers who say they would rather fly, and 17% who only favor car travel now because of the pandemic and expect to resume flying eventually. 

The research also highlights what family road trip experiences are like and how drivers feel when on the road, how they cope with traffic, and what types of mishaps they’ve experienced due to poor road conditions. 

As a result of peoples’ gravitation towards driving, there have been adverse effects. According to the Department of Transportation, the conditions of roads around the country are getting worse. This results in many drivers sustaining major (30%) or minor (30%) car damage because of poor road conditions, 15% hit objects, and 14% get into an accident with another car. Just one accident can raise your yearly car insurance rate by 32%, or $450 a year, on average.

24% of people planned to take a road trip last year, but their driving plans were wrecked by COVID. Another top reason for skipping a family road trip is work: 20% of respondents say they can’t get time off, though that’s down from last year’s 23% percent. Other common reasons for avoiding road trips include high gas prices (20%) and difficulty with hotels (10%). Another 11% percent of people complain about spending so much time trapped in the car with family members.

Dealing with traffic woes

During their trips, 53% of drivers say they are relaxed and content, up from 37% who felt this way last year. How do Americans cope when they experience traffic delays?

  • 69% listen to music
  • 30% listen to news
  • 25% talk on the phone
  • 23% listen to audiobooks or podcasts
  • 21% check social media on the phone
  • 18% listen to sports radio
  • 17% text on their phone
  • 11% get out of the car and walked around if in stopped traffic for extended time
  • 10% eat an entire meal
  • 9% talk with strangers in other cars to pass the time

Conclusion

People love to travel and that’s only expected to increase as the pandemic begins to come to a close. Despite everything, people still love to travel, and now more than ever people love being on the open road, even if it comes with complications.

California Dips to 43rd in Highway Report

California Dips to 43rd in the Nation in Highway Performance and Cost-Effectiveness The 24th Annual Highway Report, based on data that states submitted to the federal government, ranks each state’s highway system in 13 categories, including traffic fatalities, pavement condition, congestion, spending per mile, administrative costs and more. California’s highway system ranks 43rd in the nation in overall cost-effectiveness and condition, according to the Annual Highway Report published today by Reason Foundation. This is a one-spot decrease from the previous Annual Highway Report, where California ranked 42nd overall.

In safety and performance categories, California ranks 18th in overall fatality rate, 19th in structurally deficient bridges, 48th in traffic congestion, 47th in urban Interstate pavement condition and 45th in rural Interstate pavement condition. On spending, California ranks 40th in total spending per mile. “The traffic congestion in California’s large cities hurts the overall ranking, but, in addition to reducing congestion, the state could significantly improve its ranking by reducing fatalities on rural highways, improving its pavement conditions, and lowering its administrative costs,” said Baruch Feigenbaum, lead author of the Annual Highway Report and assistant director of transportation at Reason Foundation. “Compared to nearby states, California’s overall highway performance is worse than Arizona (ranks 29th), Nevada (ranks 27th) and Oregon (ranks 12th). Compared to the other most populated states in America, California ranks ahead of New York (45th), trails Florida (40th), and ranks well behind Texas (ranks 23rd).”

California’s best rankings are in overall fatality rate (18th) and structurally deficient bridges (19th). California’s worst rankings are in urban arterial pavement condition (49th) and urban area congestion (48th). California’s state-controlled highway mileage makes it the 15th largest highway system in the country. Utilizing data that states submitted to the federal government, Reason Foundation’s 24th Annual Highway Report measures the condition and cost-effectiveness of state-owned roads in 13 categories, including pavement condition on urban and rural Interstates, deficient bridges, traffic fatalities, administrative costs, and spending per mile on state roads.

North Dakota ranks first in the Annual Highway Report’s overall performance and cost-effectiveness rankings for the second year in a row. Virginia and Missouri, two of the 20 most populated states in the country, are second and third in overall performance and cost-effectiveness. Maine and Kentucky round out the top five states. The highway systems in New Jersey (50th), Alaska (49th), Rhode Island (48th), Hawaii and Massachusetts rank at the bottom of the nation in overall performance and cost-effectiveness. The full Annual Highway Report, complete rankings in each category, and historical data from previous editions are available here.

California’s Complete Results Ranking (out of 50 states)   

Overall Rank (*see explanation below): #43

Overall Rank in Previous Report: #42

Ranking in Each Category  

Total Disbursements per Mile – #40

Capital-Bridge Disbursements per Mile – #30

Maintenance Disbursements per Mile – #44

Administrative Disbursements per Mile – #44

Rural Interstate Percent in Poor Condition – #45

Urban Interstate Percent in Poor Condition – #47

Rural Other Principal Arterial Percent in Poor Condition – #35

Urban Other Principal Arterial Percent in Poor Condition – #49

Urban Area Congestion* – #48

Structurally Deficient Bridges, Percent* – #19

Overall Fatality Rate – #18

Rural Fatality Rate – #47

Urban Fatality Rate – #21

*The Annual Highway Report is based on spending and performance data submitted by state highway agencies to the federal government for 2016 as well as urban congestion data from INRIX and bridge condition data from the Better Roads inventory for 2017. For more details on the calculation of each of the 13 performance measures used in the report, as well as the overall performance measure, please refer to the appendix in the main report. The report’s dataset includes Interstate, federal and state roads but not county or local roads. All rankings are based on performance measures that are ratios rather than absolute values: the financial measures are disbursements per mile, the fatality rate is fatalities per 100 million vehicle-miles of travel, the urban congestion measure is the annual delay per auto commuter, and the others are percentages. For example, the state ranking first in structurally deficient bridges has the smallest percentage of structurally deficient bridges, not the smallest number of structurally deficient bridges.

Reason Foundation’s transportation experts have advised four presidential administrations, along with numerous state and metro transportation departments and planning organizations. Baruch Feigenbaum is lead author of the Annual Highway Report and his bio information is available here.

Benzel-Busch Motor Car Hosted AMG Road Rally

Elite New Jersey motorcar enthusiasts participated in the exclusive Benzel-Busch Motor Car Road Rally Race that recently took place at Lime Rock Park in Lakeville, Connecticut. Touted as the “Road Racing Center of the East” for nearly 55 years, Lime Rock Park is a classic 1.53 mile, 7-turn course nestled in the scenic Berkshire Mountains in northwest Connecticut, the ultimate driving event featured world class Mercedes Benz AMG vehicles. Guests met the State’s foremost niche car aficionados and witnessed an exclusive AMG lineup including a GTR and the 2020 G-wagon. These awe-inspiring vehicles are handcrafted and tailored to elite Benzel-Busch client specifications, running from $50,000 to $200,000.

Watch Video here

Mark Diamond “Road”

Today, Seattle-based singer and songwriter Mark Diamond releases his new single “Road” via Stardog Records/Republic Records.

 Listen to “Road” HERE!

 “Road” exclusively premiered on Billboard, who hailed it as “a synth-pop tune that sees the singer’s raspy vocals paired with a mid-tempo beat, inducing listeners to sway to the rhythm.” It arrives hot on the heels of the fan favorite “Steady.” Upon release, the single attracted critical praise with Variance describing it as “such a gem.” Not to mention he has amassed over 1.5 million monthly listeners on Spotify and counting.

 On the song Mark noted: “‘Road’ was one that just needed to come out. The day before it was written, we decided to call it an early night at the studio and left 11pm. I tried to go meet up with friends but was having a hard time switching back to “reality” after spending so much time in the studio. I went into the studio the next day slightly on edge, so I laid on the ground behind the board and wrote this song. Immediately I felt better — like I had just explained to myself that this is my life now. I needed to realize that it was my choice, and it’s absolutely beautiful to live this way. Hope is important to me these days. I think the world could always use more of it.”

 At 25 years old, Mark Diamond is a Seattle native who grew up listening to Tom Petty, Hootie & The Blowfish, The Beatles, R.E.M and Robbie Williams with his dad in his 1969 Chevy Malibu. Up until recently, Mark, now based in Los Angeles, was living in Seattle and working at a coffee shop for the last four years. He has been hard at work on his upcoming project with his debut song, “Steady,” leading the way. The song is included in a very large arsenal of finished tracks that he completed in 24 days with talented writer and producer Richard Craker, writing and recording in both London and Los Angeles. With his music, Mark wants to make people feel every emotion possible. “I have never had more fun making music in my entire life. Music should make people feel good more than it makes them feel bad. Not necessarily ‘happy’ songs, but songs that make you feel better about life than when you started listening to it.”

 

Three Top Tips on Buying Your First Car

As soon as you pass your driving test, all you want to do is get out on the roads in your very own car. As exciting as this time may be, however, it’s still highly beneficial to exercise a bit of caution and patience. When it comes to buying your first motor there’s nothing smart about rushing in– doing so will see you face more problems further down the road.

Exercising caution doesn’t mean being inactive when it comes to finding the perfect car for you, though. You should still be proactive at this time, and you should still try to set up your life as a driver in the most fruitful way possible. To find three top tips on how to buy your first car in the right way, read on.

1. Sort out the financial aspects of the venture

Before you do anything else in your car-buying venture, you need to work out your budget as well as how much you are willing to spend. This is essential because it’ll stop your spending from spiraling out of control, no it’ll help you avoid paying too little and then having to face any buying regrets further down the line.

You also have to take future running costs into account. It’s no good just factoring the cost of the car into your financial plans. You also have to deliberate insuring the vehicle, getting it taxed, getting it tested, and then having work done to it to ensure it is roadworthy.

Something else that you must consider is how you are going to pay for your car. Are you able to buy the car outright, or will you be going down the financing route? Regarding the latter, if you wish to take out a car loan to cover your bill, then you should check out the best auto loans at Crediful.com. Doing so will help you make the most informed decision on the matter possible.

2. Be scrupulous when it comes to checking your chosen car

You may think that you have found the perfect car for you, but that might not necessarily be the case. Any vehicle can be made to look and sound good on the outside, but you cannot commit to anything until you’ve meticulously checked that your chosen car is in good working order. That means checking to ensure that the quality of your car is in keeping with its age, its model, and the number of miles it has to run; this means ensuring that the car can carry out all functions and purposes expected of it; and this means it matches its descriptions exactly. If you can’t perform these tests yourself, then have a trusted mechanic carry them out for you. Only then will any underlying problems with the car be unearthed, and only when these troubles are unearthed can you stop them from becoming actual headaches of yours.

If you want your first car to truly help you in your quest to grow as a driver, then it needs to be in full working order. Taking the above advice is the first step, but there is something else that you must do: take it for a spin. Only when you get behind the wheel yourself can you get a feel for the car’s capabilities. When you take it for a ride, you should test the clutch and the brakes to ensure they do not feel worn, you should head to a road where you can hit at least 60mph to ensure it is capable of high-speed driving, and you should make sure that the steering wheel does not vibrate while you drive.

3. Don’t trust everybody’s advice

As an inexperienced car owner, you will experience plenty of people sticking their nose into your car-buying business. The family members and friends of yours who own their own cars will try to give you an insight into car buying — their advice might come with the best of intentions, but they don’t know your situation quite like you do. There will even be car dealers out there who try to push you towards certain buys — the advice they give will be very much designed to sway you towards lining their pockets. This all means that the only person that you can really trust in this situation is yourself, and you’re the only one who can bring about the best results for you.

 

Your first car will always remain a favorite of yours, even after many years (and cars) have gone by. Be sure you invest in a car that’ll last for many years so that you do not have to worry about further expenses.

LIFE-SAVING TECH × JAGUAR

Audible Vehicle Alert System Developed by Jaguar to Protect Road Users

Jaguar has developed an Audible Vehicle Alert System (AVAS) for the I-PACE, to warn vulnerable road users as the electric vehicle approaches

With no engine sound, the electric Jaguar I-PACE required a new way to warn blind, visually impaired and other vulnerable road users   of its approach at low speed.

Jaguar has designed a unique Audible Vehicle Alert System (AVAS) for its first electric vehicle – developing a sound that can be heard at speeds up to 20km/h and exceeds the 56dB(A) minimum required by forthcoming European legislation for all new electric vehicles (EVs) from July 2019.

The I-PACE’s sound was tested by members of Guide Dogs for the Blind, the UK’s leading charity for people affected by sight loss, as part of the testing undertaken by Jaguar. It also marks the start of an on-going relationship between the two organisations.

Jaguar’s engineers worked for four years to develop a soundtrack that is audible yet discreet and cannot be heard from inside the vehicle. Initial attempts to create a noise inspired by the sound of sci-fi spacecraft had to be shelved after pedestrians reacted by looking up to the sky, rather than at the road, as the vehicle approached.

Engineers tested sounds in a number of environments, including an anechoic chamber (specialist echo-free room) and various urban scenarios, before settling on the final sound for the I-PACE. It is emitted from a speaker located behind the front grille, can be heard in every direction and cannot be disengaged.

The alert increases in pitch and volume in line with the speed of the vehicle and, when in reverse, is accompanied by an additional tone that indicates the change in direction. AVAS is not required at higher speeds as there is sufficient wind and tyre noise for pedestrians to hear the zero-emissions vehicle approaching.

Iain Suffield, Jaguar NVH Technical Specialist, said:

“The absence of traditional engine noise from electric vehicles creates a problem for vulnerable pedestrians, such as the blind or visually impaired. This is especially true at low speeds in town centres and car parks. We developed the Audible Vehicle Alert System for the I-PACE to ensure the safety of all road users. Our potentially life-saving technology cannot be switched off and as the leading charity for people with sight loss, we are pleased to have the support of Guide Dogs to ensure real people are at the heart of our product testing.”

YouTube: http://youtu.be/13JwfssNI3I