EDITOR’S NOTE: The following is an excerpt of a regular feature from Huntington Private Bank. On a regular basis, Huntington officials publish a “The Three Things We Learned This Week” blog post on its website, with commentary by Huntington‘s Chief Investment Officer, John Augustine.
The second quarter was constructive for long-term investors. Over the last three months, the S&P 500 was higher in price by 10.57% and closed at a new record high of 6,204.95. This is impressive given the angst about the economy, Israel/Iran and the tariffs. In addition, the Bloomberg Barclays Govt/Credit Intermediate Bond Index gained 0.73% in price. This was a very constructive quarter for long-term investors that remained calm during the ‘policy driven volatility” that was evident in the month of April.
U.S. economic reports are mixed this week, but employment seems solid. The weak economic reports this week consisted of construction and exports. However, there were three employment reports this week (Monthly Employment Report, JOLTS Job Survey, Weekly Initial Jobless Claims) that were all better than expected. In other words, employers are likely to still have difficulty finding workers where needed, while employees are still in-demand.
Trade Talk is coming back in a positive way. So far, there have been two cabinet secretaries, Lutnick and Bessent, that have opined on the potential to extend the April 9 deadline for trade agreements with a long list of countries. In addition, there are headlines around other countries (China, EU, Japan) with trade deals as a work in progress. This helps calm markets and allows stocks to move to new closing highs. More to come on this in the upcoming weeks.
LONGMONT, Colo.– Rossmönster, a leader in purpose-built adventure vehicles, is excited to announce a new partnership with Vogt RV and Leisure RV Center, two of Texas’ most respected RV dealerships. This collaboration will bring Rossmönster’s acclaimed adventure trucks and vans – including the Baja Series and the all-new SKYE van – to a broader audience across the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex and beyond.
Vogt RV, a family-owned dealership with over forty years of experience, is renowned for its exceptional customer service and extensive selection of top-tier RV brands. With multiple locations throughout North Texas, VOGT RV and its Leisure RV Center are trusted destinations for RV enthusiasts seeking quality, reliability, and adventure-ready vehicles.
Rossmönster’s adventure trucks and vans are engineered for off-grid exploration and built to exceed industry standards for overlanding. The Baja Series, for example, features a proprietary hard-walled pop-top camper that delivers a low center of gravity, compact footprint, and superior handling—making it ideal for tackling tough terrain and accessing remote destinations. All Rossmönster vehicles are rigorously tested in Colorado’s high country to ensure they meet the demands of serious adventurers.
“We are thrilled to partner with VOGT RV and Leisure RV Center, whose commitment to customer satisfaction and passion for the RV lifestyle align perfectly with our own values,” said Luke Farny, Rossmönster CEO. “This partnership will make it easier than ever for Texans to experience the freedom and capability of Rossmönster adventure vehicles.”
Customers can now explore and purchase Rossmönster’s adventure trucks and vans at VOGT RV’s multiple locations, including the Leisure RV Center in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. For more information on this partnership or to explore models and financing options, visit rossmonster.com, vogtrv.com, or leisurervcenter.com.
About Rossmönster
Rossmönster redefines the adventure lifestyle, crafting premium trucks that fuel your passion for exploration and discovery. With groundbreaking designs and unmatched craftsmanship, Rossmönster creates vehicles that are more than just a mode of travel — they’re a gateway to the extraordinary. Dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation and delivering exceptional customer experiences, Rossmönster is shaping the future of adventure vehicles for those who dare to roam further and live boldly.
About VOGT RV and Leisure RV Center
VOGT RV is a full-service, family-owned RV dealership serving North Texas for over 40 years. With multiple locations and a reputation for outstanding customer service, VOGT RV offers a wide range of RV’s from America’s finest manufacturers, now including Rossmönster adventure vehicles.
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump on Monday set a 25% tax on goods imported from Japan and South Korea, as well as new tariff rates on a dozen other nations that would go into effect on Aug. 1, according to an Associated Press report.
Trump provided notice by posting letters on Truth Social that were addressed to the leaders of the various countries. The letters warned them to not retaliate by increasing their own import taxes, or else the Trump administration would further increase tariffs.
“If for any reason you decide to raise your Tariffs, then, whatever the number you choose to raise them by, will be added onto the 25% that we charge,” Trump wrote in the letters to Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung.
The letters were not the final word from Trump on tariffs, so much as another episode in a global economic drama in which he has placed himself at the center. His moves have raised fears that economic growth would slow to a trickle, if not make the U.S. and other nations more vulnerable to a recession. But Trump is confident that tariffs are necessary to bring back domestic manufacturing and fund the tax cuts he signed into law last Friday.
RV LIFE introduced its first-annual, industry-exclusive 2025 Trailer Towing Guide — a comprehensive resource designed to help RVers tow smarter, safer and with confidence. Featuring manufacturer-approved tow ratings for 2025 vehicles, expert insights, and hands-on towing tips, the guide simplifies every aspect of trailer towing, according to a release.
“At RV LIFE, we believe that towing a trailer doesn’t have to be intimidating,” said Editor-in-Chief Kristopher Bunker. “With the right knowledge, equipment, and a bit of practice, anyone can hit the road confidently—and this guide is built to make that possible.”
What’s Inside the 2025 Trailer Towing Guide:
Manufacturer-Approved Tow Ratings: Latest specs for 2025 trucks, vans, and SUVs.
Clear Explanations: Understand hitch types, weight ratings and towing capacity.
Towing Setups: Fifth-wheel and bumper-pull configurations explained.
Pro Tips: Insights on sway control, leveling, and trailer loading.
Upgrade Ideas: Products to enhance towing comfort and performance.
Backed by more than 75 years of combined RV industry experience, the RV LIFE editorial team designed this guide for both new and seasoned RVers looking to tow with clarity and confidence.
RV LIFE is dedicated to making RVing simple. We inspire people to dream of new adventures and empower them to journey with confidence. With a suite of tools and resources, including RV LIFE Trip Wizard, an RV Safe GPS, and RV LIFE Campgrounds, RV LIFE is your trusted companion on the road.
The 2025 RV Aftermarket Conference, set to take place Aug. 11-14 in San Antonio, will welcome some of the nation’s top RV dealers as part of its commitment to delivering added value for supplier and distributor attendees, according to a News & Insights report by the RV Industry Association (RVIA). These dealers will participate in key meetings, offering valuable, first-hand insights from the retail level of the aftermarket segment.
Through direct discussions, supplier and distributor attendees will gain a clearer understanding of the products and services RV owners are asking for, along with emerging trends in parts, accessories, and service needs. The inclusion of these dealers provides an important opportunity for attendees to hear what’s happening on the front lines of RV retail.
This year’s dealer participants include:
Bish’s RV Super Center
Blue Compass RV
Campers Inn RV
Fun Town RV
McClain’s RV Superstores
Mike Thompson’s RV Super Stores
PPL Motorhomes
Ron Hoover RV & Marine
Topper’s Camping Center
Their presence will help strengthen the connections between the aftermarket, distribution, and retail sectors—ensuring that the products and solutions developed truly meet the needs of today’s RV consumers.
Editor’s Note: The following obituary was published on the Miller-Stewart Funeral Home website.
MIDDLEBURY, Ind. – James “Jimbo” Eugene Hansen, 61 of White Pigeon, MI, formerly of Middlebury, passed away suddenly on July 1, 2025. He was born April 22, 1964 in Niles, MI to James Miller and Karen (Christner) Hansen. Surviving is his wife, Renee’ (Thatcher) Hansen and three children and eight grandchildren; two sons, James (Kym) Hansen and grandchildren, Adrienne and Zoey; Jourdan (Chelsea) Hansen and grandchildren Vaeda and Georgia; a daughter, Justine (Brandon) Houston and grandchildren Brady and Sadie; a sister Francine Earl and his mother.
James Hansen
He was preceded in death by his father; sister, Tammie Brown; and a granddaughter, Isabel Hansen.
Jim and Renee’ were married on February,7th 1987 as young sweethearts they began building their family and life together sharing nearly 40 years of marriage they’ve always been side by side and ready to tackle any task big or small they loved to have fun anytime and anyway; they always enjoyed it together the teamwork they both shared was what an amazing marriage looked like.
Jim served in the United States Army from 1982-1984, when he was honorably discharged. He was a member of the American Legion, Post 210 Middlebury.
Jim and Renee’ were members of the “corvette cheers” corvette club. As well as active donors to several organizations for Goodwill, the Salvation Army and The Walk for Juvenile Diabetes.
A lifelong Middlebury native Jim is the Giver of love, and his personality is LARGER THAN LIFE. A lifelong entrepreneur, he created his own Brand of Successful businesses throughout the years as JIMBO AND COMPANY. In various forms from lawn care, residential and commercial power washing, catering and concession stands and lastly his most successful and significant achievement of Jimbo & Company Transport. Where he and his sons started in 2010 together. With Jim’s knowledge, guidance and support, they were able to build a fleet of over 300 owner operators. His lifelong dream of creating something that his children would continue to enjoy and share the same commitment into the future as he’s always shared. The name Jimbo meant something to him as well as it has been a staple with many and in communities near and far. In 2013 Jim’s journey created the privilege of early retirement alongside his wife, Renee’, as the power couple enjoyed wintering at their home in Florida and summers at their lake house in Michigan. Jim lived for the most special time of his life, enjoying his grandchildren. Holding the title of “crapaw” was one of his greatest achievements and he cherished everyday with them. Though his time was cut short he was able to make many memorable moments with them. From singing karaoke in his man cave to cruising around on his golf cart, to fishing, boat rides and sleep overs; he took the job as “crapaw” seriously. Jim’s personal attachment and commitment to his friends is nothing short of remarkable; his ability to connect with anyone really speaks to the way he was. His compassion and willingness to help anyone in need never went unnoticed. His life was full of wins and fails and he would always be willing to share his wisdom and knowledge when giving advice as he was always the guy you would call on for just that. He really had known and seen it all. Nothing short of being a great leader, husband, father, “crapaw”, lover of Jesus and friend. Jim’s absence is not only devastating but leaves behind a lasting legacy that will remain in our hearts and community forever.
Visitation will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 pm on Friday, July 11, at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 S. Main Street Middlebury, IN. There will also be one hour of visitation prior to the 11:00 am funeral service on Saturday, July 12, at the First United Methodist Church of Middlebury, 720 South Main St. Middlebury, IN. A private graveside service will follow the funeral at Grace Lawn Cemetery, Middlebury with Military Rights conducted by the American Legion Post 210. A long-time family friend, Scott Miller, will conduct the funeral services.
A gathering celebration party of Jimbo’s life will be held at the American Legion following the funeral service.
Memorials may be given to Miller’s Vets of South Bend for assistance to local homeless veterans. Online condolences may be sent at millerstewartfuneralhome.com.
Editor’s Note: The following obituary was published on the Miller-Stewart Funeral Home website.
MIDDLEBURY, Ind. – James “Jimbo” Eugene Hansen, 61 of White Pigeon, MI, formerly of Middlebury, passed away suddenly on July 1, 2025. He was born April 22, 1964 in Niles, MI to James Miller and Karen (Christner) Hansen. Surviving is his wife, Renee’ (Thatcher) Hansen and three children and eight grandchildren; two sons, James (Kym) Hansen and grandchildren, Adrienne and Zoey; Jourdan (Chelsea) Hansen and grandchildren Vaeda and Georgia; a daughter, Justine (Brandon) Houston and grandchildren Brady and Sadie; a sister Francine Earl and his mother.
James Hansen
He was preceded in death by his father; sister, Tammie Brown; and a granddaughter, Isabel Hansen.
Jim and Renee’ were married on February,7th 1987 as young sweethearts they began building their family and life together sharing nearly 40 years of marriage they’ve always been side by side and ready to tackle any task big or small they loved to have fun anytime and anyway; they always enjoyed it together the teamwork they both shared was what an amazing marriage looked like.
Jim served in the United States Army from 1982-1984, when he was honorably discharged. He was a member of the American Legion, Post 210 Middlebury.
Jim and Renee’ were members of the “corvette cheers” corvette club. As well as active donors to several organizations for Goodwill, the Salvation Army and The Walk for Juvenile Diabetes.
A lifelong Middlebury native Jim is the Giver of love, and his personality is LARGER THAN LIFE. A lifelong entrepreneur, he created his own Brand of Successful businesses throughout the years as JIMBO AND COMPANY. In various forms from lawn care, residential and commercial power washing, catering and concession stands and lastly his most successful and significant achievement of Jimbo & Company Transport. Where he and his sons started in 2010 together. With Jim’s knowledge, guidance and support, they were able to build a fleet of over 300 owner operators. His lifelong dream of creating something that his children would continue to enjoy and share the same commitment into the future as he’s always shared. The name Jimbo meant something to him as well as it has been a staple with many and in communities near and far. In 2013 Jim’s journey created the privilege of early retirement alongside his wife, Renee’, as the power couple enjoyed wintering at their home in Florida and summers at their lake house in Michigan. Jim lived for the most special time of his life, enjoying his grandchildren. Holding the title of “crapaw” was one of his greatest achievements and he cherished everyday with them. Though his time was cut short he was able to make many memorable moments with them. From singing karaoke in his man cave to cruising around on his golf cart, to fishing, boat rides and sleep overs; he took the job as “crapaw” seriously. Jim’s personal attachment and commitment to his friends is nothing short of remarkable; his ability to connect with anyone really speaks to the way he was. His compassion and willingness to help anyone in need never went unnoticed. His life was full of wins and fails and he would always be willing to share his wisdom and knowledge when giving advice as he was always the guy you would call on for just that. He really had known and seen it all. Nothing short of being a great leader, husband, father, “crapaw”, lover of Jesus and friend. Jim’s absence is not only devastating but leaves behind a lasting legacy that will remain in our hearts and community forever.
Visitation will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 pm on Friday, July 11, at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 S. Main Street Middlebury, IN. There will also be one hour of visitation prior to the 11:00 am funeral service on Saturday, July 12, at the First United Methodist Church of Middlebury, 720 South Main St. Middlebury, IN. A private graveside service will follow the funeral at Grace Lawn Cemetery, Middlebury with Military Rights conducted by the American Legion Post 210. A long-time family friend, Scott Miller, will conduct the funeral services.
A gathering celebration party of Jimbo’s life will be held at the American Legion following the funeral service.
Memorials may be given to Miller’s Vets of South Bend for assistance to local homeless veterans. Online condolences may be sent at millerstewartfuneralhome.com.
Editor’s Note: The following message is from the Texas Association of Campground Owners (TACO) and provides an update on the association’s efforts to support parks after devastating flooding occurred in early July.
Speaking of which, if you are a campground that is in need and would like to be considered as a recipient for the TACO Relief Fund, click here to download the application now. Those can be emailed to Texas Campgrounds CEO/Executive Director Brian Schaeffer at [email protected].
Additionally, there is information on the password-protected side of www.TACOMembers.com when it comes to navigating FEMA, preparing for the next disaster and more.
We’re also working on several discounts and special pricing from vendors all over the country to help Texas campgrounds and RV parks get back up and running, and will be sharing those soon.
We’re also working on special pricing and discounts offered by dealers to those RVers who will need to replace their units. There has been no shortage of people willing to offer whatever they can.
If you’re a park that wasn’t affected but you’d like to help with accommodations for displaced RVers, you can let Lisa Rhodes know in the TACO office so we can post it on www.TexasCampgrounds.com.
Thank you again to everyone who reached out. You are a reminder of why this is the greatest industry in the greatest state.
Editor’s Note: The following message is from the Texas Association of Campground Owners (TACO) and provides an update on the association’s efforts to support parks after devastating flooding occurred in early July.
Speaking of which, if you are a campground that is in need and would like to be considered as a recipient for the TACO Relief Fund, click here to download the application now. Those can be emailed to Texas Campgrounds CEO/Executive Director Brian Schaeffer at [email protected].
Additionally, there is information on the password-protected side of www.TACOMembers.com when it comes to navigating FEMA, preparing for the next disaster and more.
We’re also working on several discounts and special pricing from vendors all over the country to help Texas campgrounds and RV parks get back up and running, and will be sharing those soon.
We’re also working on special pricing and discounts offered by dealers to those RVers who will need to replace their units. There has been no shortage of people willing to offer whatever they can.
If you’re a park that wasn’t affected but you’d like to help with accommodations for displaced RVers, you can let Lisa Rhodes know in the TACO office so we can post it on www.TexasCampgrounds.com.
Thank you again to everyone who reached out. You are a reminder of why this is the greatest industry in the greatest state.
CENTER POINT, Texas – As rain fell in heavy sheets and the Guadalupe River muscled over its banks with astonishing speed, David Chambers knocked on one door after another at his RV resort, according to a report by USA Today.
The once-idyllic RV park – named Guadalupe Keys Resort to evoke the laid-back vibe of the Florida Keys – boasted nine, fully-furnished RVs for rent (each with its own BBQ pit), a small sandy beach shaded by towering cypress trees and lawn chairs for lounging and watching the gentle flow of the Guadalupe.
At 6:50 a.m. July 4, that same river was foaming and galloping – and headed their way.
“You got to get out!” Chambers yelled into one RV after another until all 15 people who had rented the units had evacuated.
Minutes later, the brown water had completely covered the park, flipping RVs upside down, smashing them against trees and stacking them in a corner of the park. The flood waters pushed others miles downstream.
