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.
KERRVILLE, Texas — The death toll from catastrophic flooding in Texas over the July Fourth weekend surpassed 100 on Monday as search-and-rescue teams continued to wade into swollen rivers and use heavy equipment to untangle trees as part of the massive search for missing people, according to an Associated press report.
Authorities overseeing the search for flood victims said they will wait to address questions about weather warnings and why some summer camps did not evacuate ahead of the flooding that killed at least 104.
The officials spoke only hours after the operators of Camp Mystic, a century-old all-girls Christian summer camp in the Texas Hill Country, announced that they lost 27 campers and counselors to the floodwaters. Kerr County officials said Monday 10 campers and one counselor have still not been found.
Searchers have found the bodies of 84 people, including 28 children, in the county home to Camp Mystic and several other summer camps, officials said.
EDITOR’S NOTE: The following is the latest list of RV and RV-related recalls compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Per strict NHTSA protocols, manufacturers will next notify its dealer partners of the recall notice. Each notice will include details of the affected vehicles as well as the appropriate remedy.
Bowlus Road Chief LLC (Bowlus) is recalling 57 2022-2023, 2025 Endless Highways, 2024-2025 Volterra, 2024 Terra Firma, and 2025 Rivet trailers equipped with an elongated hitch. The owners manual does not include instructions to retighten the two hitch bolts in the maintenance schedule. Bowlus will provide a supplement to the owners manual. Dealers will inspect, replace, and tighten the hitch bolts, as necessary. All repairs will be performed free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a schedule for recall notification. Owners may contact Bowlus’ customer service at [email protected].
General Motors (GM) is recalling 1,658 2018 GMC Sierra 1500, 2019 Sierra 2500, 3500, Chevrolet Silverado 3500, and Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab vehicles. The left or right-side roof-rail air bag (RRAB) inflator end cap may detach from the inflator or the inflator sidewall may rupture. Dealers will replace the left and right side RRAB modules, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 11, 2025. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM’s number for this recall is N252513060.
JANDELSBRUNN, Germany – Under the motto “Together we make the difference,” Knaus Tabbert is presenting the new products for the 2026 model year, according to a release. This year’s presentation at the Jandelsbrunn site not only stands for new leisure vehicles and concepts, but also for a new look at what the company is all about: Cooperation, responsibility and the will to draw new strength from challenges.
The past year has shown that change is not always convenient – but it is necessary if a company is to survive and grow in the long term. Knaus Tabbert has used this process to realign itself: With a revised product philosophy, leaner structures and a clear focus on efficiency and customer benefits.
“Together we make the difference‟ – this motto is more than just a guiding principle. It describes the path that Knaus Tabbert has taken: in close dialogue with employees, dealers and customers. Many ideas and feedback from the market have been directly incorporated into the development of the new models.
Not everything has been reinvented – but many things have been improved, simplified or consistently developed further. At the same time: Innovation remains an integral part of the Knaus Tabbert DNA. In 2026, the company will continue to bring innovative technical solutions, new comfort approaches and future‐proof vehicle concepts to the road – but with more clarity, pragmatism and a focus on the essentials.
With the 2026 model year, Knaus Tabbert is committed to a common path towards a modern, customer‐centred and sustainable future of mobile travel. Because real change comes about where it is shaped together.
In a statement just prior to Trump’s signing of the bill, RV Industry Association (RVIA) President Craig Kirby said the industry”applauded the inclusion of key policy priorities” in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
“This bill represents significant progress for our industry, particularly with the fix that allows RV dealers to fully deduct interest on floorplan loans for non-motorized towable RVs, a long-standing priority that corrects an error in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act,” Kirby stated. “We are especially grateful to Representatives Yakym and Titus and Senators Ernst and King for their leadership in sponsoring this critical fix. The bill also closes the de minimis loophole, an important step toward strengthening fair trade and leveling the playing field for American manufacturers. We further appreciate the strong bipartisan efforts that ensured harmful public land sales were not included in the final legislation.
“I am incredibly grateful to our industry advocates who gathered in Washington, D.C., during RVs Move America Week to champion these priorities that ultimately made it into the bill,” Kirby continued. “Their dedication, along with the efforts of our partners across the outdoor recreation community, helped protect America’s public lands while supporting policies that will drive the RV industry forward.”
