Marc and Tricia Leach of Keep Your Daydream go behind the scenes for a factory tour of the Zip Dee production facility in Oak Grove, Ill.
From Keep Your Daydream: Did you know the founder of Zip Dee Awnings’s last name is Duda? We recently had the chance to visit Zip Dee Awnings, a company that’s been handcrafting awnings for nearly 60 years. What made this visit extra special was getting a full factory tour — not from a guide, but from Nate Webb, Zip Dee’s president, who rolled up on a Segway and personally installed our awning. In this episode, we go behind the scenes to look at how these legendary awnings are made and pick up a few tips along the way. Whether you already have a Zip Dee awning or just love seeing how quality gear is built, this one’s worth watching.
Marc and Tricia Leach of Keep Your Daydream go behind the scenes for a factory tour of the Zip Dee production facility in Oak Grove, Ill.
From Keep Your Daydream: Did you know the founder of Zip Dee Awnings’s last name is Duda? We recently had the chance to visit Zip Dee Awnings, a company that’s been handcrafting awnings for nearly 60 years. What made this visit extra special was getting a full factory tour — not from a guide, but from Nate Webb, Zip Dee’s president, who rolled up on a Segway and personally installed our awning. In this episode, we go behind the scenes to look at how these legendary awnings are made and pick up a few tips along the way. Whether you already have a Zip Dee awning or just love seeing how quality gear is built, this one’s worth watching.
Marc and Tricia Leach of Keep Your Daydream go behind the scenes for a factory tour of the Zip Dee production facility in Oak Grove, Ill.
From Keep Your Daydream: Did you know the founder of Zip Dee Awnings’s last name is Duda? We recently had the chance to visit Zip Dee Awnings, a company that’s been handcrafting awnings for nearly 60 years. What made this visit extra special was getting a full factory tour — not from a guide, but from Nate Webb, Zip Dee’s president, who rolled up on a Segway and personally installed our awning. In this episode, we go behind the scenes to look at how these legendary awnings are made and pick up a few tips along the way. Whether you already have a Zip Dee awning or just love seeing how quality gear is built, this one’s worth watching.
BROOKFIELD, Wis. – REV Group, Inc. (NYSE:REVG), a leading manufacturer of specialty vehicles, announces in a press release that Linas Polteraitis has been promoted to chief supply chain officer. He joined REV Group in September 2023 as the vice president of supply chain. Polteraitis will continue reporting to Mark Skonieczny, CEO and president, REV Group.
Linas Polteraitis
“Linas has been instrumental in strengthening REV’s procurement and supply chain operations,” said Mark Skonieczny, CEO of REV Group. “Over the course of his tenure, he has built a high-performing team and fostered strong supplier partnerships. He has proven himself to be a strategic and results-oriented leader, and we are delighted to promote Linas to our Chief Supply Chain Officer.”
Prior to joining REV Group, Polteraitis was senior director, supply chain at Otis Worldwide, where he led various strategic initiatives and transformations to generate increased sales and profitability. Before that, he was vice president, purchasing – direct materials at Adient; supply chain management director – Americas at Aptiv; and various progressive leadership roles in purchasing at ZF TRW, DMAX, Ltd., General Motors Corporation, and Isuzu Motors America.
With many career highlights and recognitions, Polteraitis received the CEO Award at Otis Worldwide for his activities related to COVID-19 and Global Supply Chain disruption mitigation. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Supply Chain Management from Michigan State University.
SALT LAKE CITY — Outdoor Retailer 2025 was held June 18-20 at the Salt Palace Convention Center, drawing nearly 1,700 attendees and more than 350 exhibiting brands from over 40 states across the three-day show. The show reflected a growing focus across the industry: building purposeful relationships, spotlighting innovation, and aligning with evolving consumer values around wellness, sustainability and performance, according to a release.
The event is a leading event for the outdoor and winter sports industry, bringing together retailers, manufacturers, designers, distributors, industry advocates, journalists and more to conduct the business of outdoor recreation through commerce, unique product experiences, dedicated media events, content, and web-based business solutions.
“Outdoor Retailer served as a vibrant hub for meaningful commerce and collaboration—bringing together hundreds of brands and buyers on a bustling, full-scale show floor designed to reflect the industry’s evolution,” said Sean Smith, show director, Outdoor Retailer.
Standing room only. The Camp, powered by Shopify opened the education sessions at Outdoor Retailer on Wednesday, June 18th with Circana’s Outdoor Trend Session on retail sales and consumer insights in the outdoor marketplace. Julia Day, executive director, Circana covered what’s driving consumers and what they are spending their money on as well as what products are selling well and the why behind the buy. (Courtesy photos)
From national park advocates and adaptive sports organizations to first-time exhibitors and established leaders, this year’s event was driven by quality engagement, real conversations, product discovery, and shared commitment to moving the industry forward. Exhibitors cited strong leads, valuable meetings, and unexpected partnership opportunities.
“The outdoors runs on connections, and last week, we experienced that at Outdoor Retailer,” said Ted Ayliffe, chief executive officer, Coulee Coffee. “From product collabs to potential retail partners and sustainability champions, we’re leaving Salt Lake City energized by what’s ahead.”
“We’ve shown at Outdoor Retailer since the mid-90’s,” said Travis McMaster, general manager at Cocoon. “A brand wants to meet retailers and open doors. We’re here to sell stuff. We want to open new doors and revisit those relationships that we’ve had in the past. Ultimately that’s the goal. This year I wanted to work on things in between the aisles – make connections to help us with our direct-to-consumer business and connect with content creators and social media influencers and this show hit the spot for us for the peripheral stuff beyond showing the brand to retailers.”
The New Product Showcase and Ascent Area, For Next Generation of Brands
The New Product Showcase and the Ascent area, dedicated to emerging outdoor brands, highlighted dozens of companies introducing purposeful solutions and products merging environmental responsibility with elevated performance, all without compromising on style or functionality. These areas sparked meaningful conversations and helped position new and established brands at the forefront of the outdoor market’s next chapter.
Supporting this momentum, the Utah Outdoor Recreation State Pavilion Program highlighted regional innovation, showcasing homegrown brands and reinforcing the critical role of local outdoor recreation economies across the U.S.
A Preview of What’s Ahead for 2026
As the first major U.S. marketplace previewing next year’s outdoor products, Outdoor Retailer provides a global lens on emerging consumer trends and product innovation. Buyers, media, and industry professionals explored a diverse range of offerings reflecting the evolving demands of today’s outdoor consumer, from sustainable materials to minimalist aesthetics and multifunctional design.”
As the travel industry has changed and grown and gone in different directions, it’s important for all of us to start finding different avenues for business,” said Cynthia Mitchell, senior sales manager at Go Travel, part of the Travel Goods Association (TGA). “I think that the most important thing here today, this week, is to make new contacts in different industries.”
The OR + ODI Industry Party, powered by Shopify, was held offsite at SKY SLC, located in downtown Salt Lake, and provided a vibrant atmosphere for networking after the first day of the show.
The Travel Goods Association debuted its Travel Gear Pavilion highlighting the growing convergence between travel and outdoor lifestyles. It featured a curated mix of established and emerging brands including Bellroy, Jansport, Matador, Osprey, and Topo Designs, among others showcasing products designed for the modern, adventure-focused traveler. The activation built on TGA’s renewed momentum and positioned travel gear at the center of the broader outdoor conversation.
“Sun Bum has a great partnership with Outdoor Retailer,” said Phil Demangone, senior sales manager at SunBum. “We continue our main mission on just sun education and sun safety, and just educating people on the brand, and then obviously gaining those retail partnerships that are long-lasting and connecting with the right retailers that can help us with that mission. This year, we just met with Zion National Park, which is the second largest national park in the country. Within a few moments, we were all shaking hands and already becoming friends and family. We were welcoming them into our program.”
“There’s been wins from all across the country,” said Dustin Smith, director of global wholesale sales at FAHLO. “It’s definitely been quality over quantity. We’re seeing high end buyers from reputable stores and sources that we want to work with.”
“The outdoor industry is evolving rapidly, shaped by shifting consumer expectations, economic forces, and cultural trends,” said Lindsay Hubley, senior vice president of sports and outdoor group at Emerald X, LLC. “We recognize the need to evolve alongside it. We’re taking a thoughtful look at every aspect of the show to ensure we continue to meet the needs of the industry now and into the future.”
“Our goal remains to foster a dynamic, inclusive space where ideas are exchanged, relationships are built, and the entire outdoor community can thrive. As plans for future shows take shape, we’ll continue to share updates,” added Hubley.
SALT LAKE CITY — Outdoor Retailer 2025 was held June 18-20 at the Salt Palace Convention Center, drawing nearly 1,700 attendees and more than 350 exhibiting brands from over 40 states across the three-day show. The show reflected a growing focus across the industry: building purposeful relationships, spotlighting innovation, and aligning with evolving consumer values around wellness, sustainability and performance, according to a release.
The event is a leading event for the outdoor and winter sports industry, bringing together retailers, manufacturers, designers, distributors, industry advocates, journalists and more to conduct the business of outdoor recreation through commerce, unique product experiences, dedicated media events, content, and web-based business solutions.
“Outdoor Retailer served as a vibrant hub for meaningful commerce and collaboration—bringing together hundreds of brands and buyers on a bustling, full-scale show floor designed to reflect the industry’s evolution,” said Sean Smith, show director, Outdoor Retailer.
Standing room only. The Camp, powered by Shopify opened the education sessions at Outdoor Retailer on Wednesday, June 18th with Circana’s Outdoor Trend Session on retail sales and consumer insights in the outdoor marketplace. Julia Day, executive director, Circana covered what’s driving consumers and what they are spending their money on as well as what products are selling well and the why behind the buy. (Courtesy photos)
From national park advocates and adaptive sports organizations to first-time exhibitors and established leaders, this year’s event was driven by quality engagement, real conversations, product discovery, and shared commitment to moving the industry forward. Exhibitors cited strong leads, valuable meetings, and unexpected partnership opportunities.
“The outdoors runs on connections, and last week, we experienced that at Outdoor Retailer,” said Ted Ayliffe, chief executive officer, Coulee Coffee. “From product collabs to potential retail partners and sustainability champions, we’re leaving Salt Lake City energized by what’s ahead.”
“We’ve shown at Outdoor Retailer since the mid-90’s,” said Travis McMaster, general manager at Cocoon. “A brand wants to meet retailers and open doors. We’re here to sell stuff. We want to open new doors and revisit those relationships that we’ve had in the past. Ultimately that’s the goal. This year I wanted to work on things in between the aisles – make connections to help us with our direct-to-consumer business and connect with content creators and social media influencers and this show hit the spot for us for the peripheral stuff beyond showing the brand to retailers.”
The New Product Showcase and Ascent Area, For Next Generation of Brands
The New Product Showcase and the Ascent area, dedicated to emerging outdoor brands, highlighted dozens of companies introducing purposeful solutions and products merging environmental responsibility with elevated performance, all without compromising on style or functionality. These areas sparked meaningful conversations and helped position new and established brands at the forefront of the outdoor market’s next chapter.
Supporting this momentum, the Utah Outdoor Recreation State Pavilion Program highlighted regional innovation, showcasing homegrown brands and reinforcing the critical role of local outdoor recreation economies across the U.S.
A Preview of What’s Ahead for 2026
As the first major U.S. marketplace previewing next year’s outdoor products, Outdoor Retailer provides a global lens on emerging consumer trends and product innovation. Buyers, media, and industry professionals explored a diverse range of offerings reflecting the evolving demands of today’s outdoor consumer, from sustainable materials to minimalist aesthetics and multifunctional design.”
As the travel industry has changed and grown and gone in different directions, it’s important for all of us to start finding different avenues for business,” said Cynthia Mitchell, senior sales manager at Go Travel, part of the Travel Goods Association (TGA). “I think that the most important thing here today, this week, is to make new contacts in different industries.”
The OR + ODI Industry Party, powered by Shopify, was held offsite at SKY SLC, located in downtown Salt Lake, and provided a vibrant atmosphere for networking after the first day of the show.
The Travel Goods Association debuted its Travel Gear Pavilion highlighting the growing convergence between travel and outdoor lifestyles. It featured a curated mix of established and emerging brands including Bellroy, Jansport, Matador, Osprey, and Topo Designs, among others showcasing products designed for the modern, adventure-focused traveler. The activation built on TGA’s renewed momentum and positioned travel gear at the center of the broader outdoor conversation.
“Sun Bum has a great partnership with Outdoor Retailer,” said Phil Demangone, senior sales manager at SunBum. “We continue our main mission on just sun education and sun safety, and just educating people on the brand, and then obviously gaining those retail partnerships that are long-lasting and connecting with the right retailers that can help us with that mission. This year, we just met with Zion National Park, which is the second largest national park in the country. Within a few moments, we were all shaking hands and already becoming friends and family. We were welcoming them into our program.”
“There’s been wins from all across the country,” said Dustin Smith, director of global wholesale sales at FAHLO. “It’s definitely been quality over quantity. We’re seeing high end buyers from reputable stores and sources that we want to work with.”
“The outdoor industry is evolving rapidly, shaped by shifting consumer expectations, economic forces, and cultural trends,” said Lindsay Hubley, senior vice president of sports and outdoor group at Emerald X, LLC. “We recognize the need to evolve alongside it. We’re taking a thoughtful look at every aspect of the show to ensure we continue to meet the needs of the industry now and into the future.”
“Our goal remains to foster a dynamic, inclusive space where ideas are exchanged, relationships are built, and the entire outdoor community can thrive. As plans for future shows take shape, we’ll continue to share updates,” added Hubley.
EDITOR’S NOTE: The latest issue of RV Today magazine is now available. Here’s the Publisher’s Note from Demian Ross.
I’m an American, but I’m not always sure where I belong.
I’ve lived full time in 48 states. I’ve built businesses from a fold-out table inside an RV. I’ve taken Zoom calls parked next to cattle, casinos, cornfields, and coastlines. Some mornings I worked from a mountain vista, and others, from a Cracker Barrel parking lot.
And somewhere along the way, I stopped feeling like I was from anywhere in particular.
I was born in Seattle, learned to walk in Boston, learned to talk in New York, and learned to run in Los Angeles. I spent 40 years in California chasing dreams, building a life, and raising a family.
I even tried to play ball in Utah, until I found out I was going to be a father and my priorities changed in an instant.
In 2017, after four decades in California, I packed up, hit the road, and became a legal resident of South Dakota. If you know anything about full-time RV life, you know the Big Three when it comes to residency: South Dakota, Texas, and Florida.
Eventually, I bought a 240-acre ranch in Oklahoma, so now, on paper, I’m an Oklahoman. But when people ask where I’m from, I usually just say, “I’m from America,” because I don’t really identify with any one state anymore, or one party, one label, or one side of a line.
I know the word “identify” tends to trigger people these days, but stick with me.
I don’t want to be considered red or blue just because half the people in a state voted a certain way. I don’t want to be lumped in by zip code, license plate, or bumper sticker. I just want to be free. Free to move, free to explore, and free to live like an American.
If you’ve ever spent time on the road, you already know that if all you do is make left turns, you’ll go in circles. Of course, if all you do is make right turns, you’ll also go in circles. The only way to move forward is a mix of both.
That’s the road. That’s life. And that’s America, or at least what it should be—not team sports, tribal camps, or this constant game of “us versus them.” Just forward motion.
I’m from America, I’m an RVer, and I believe in moving forward, not backward.
Demian Ross Founder and Publisher RV Today Magazine
Patrick’s management team will give a presentation and participate in one-on-one meetings with institutional investors and analysts.
Please contact CJS for attendance information and additional details.
About Patrick Industries, Inc.
Patrick (NASDAQ: PATK) is a leading component solutions provider serving the RV, Marine, Powersports and Housing markets. Since 1959, Patrick has empowered manufacturers and outdoor enthusiasts to achieve next-level recreation experiences. Our customer-focused approach brings together design, manufacturing, distribution, and transportation in a full solutions model that defines us as a trusted partner. Patrick is home to more than 85 leading brands, all united by a commitment to quality, customer service, and innovation. Headquartered in Elkhart, IN, Patrick employs approximately 10,000 skilled team members throughout the United States. For more information on Patrick, our brands, and products, please visit www.patrickind.com.
Summer. Is. Calling! And for lots of RVers, that means it’s time to pack up, hit the road, and chase the sun from coast to coast. Whether you’re rolling solo, planning a romantic coastal escape, or rallying the family for some serious sandcastle action, America’s beaches are open for adventure — and they’re more RV-friendly than ever.
So, we’ve rounded up the top RV-friendly beaches where you can park, play, and soak up summer the way it’s meant to be.
1. Key West, Florida
Ideal For: Couples and Solo Travelers
Why Go:Key West is the epitome of laid-back island charm. Picture yourself sipping a mojito at sunset, toes in the sand, with your RV just steps away. The island’s RV-friendly parks offer full hookups and easy access to the beach. While Key West is generally pretty RV-friendly, it is important to note that due to limited space, reservations are highly recommended — especially during peak season.
Activities:
Snorkel or dive in crystal-clear waters.
Explore the vibrant nightlife on Duval Street.
Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.
Fun Fact: Key West is the southernmost point in the continental U.S., just 90 miles north of Cuba!
2. Santa Cruz, California
Ideal For: Families and Nature Lovers
Why Go: Santa Cruz boasts a perfect blend of surf culture and natural beauty. RV parks here are nestled among redwoods or right on the beach, offering a serene escape with plenty of family-friendly activities.
Fun Fact: Santa Cruz is known as the birthplace of surfing on the U.S. mainland!
3. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Ideal For: Families and Group Getaways
Why Go: With over 60 miles of sandy shores, Myrtle Beach is a haven for RVers. The area offers numerous RV parks with direct beach access, making it easy to enjoy the surf and sun.
Activities:
Play mini-golf at one of the many themed courses.
Visit the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel for panoramic views.
Explore the boardwalk and local seafood restaurants.
Fun Fact: Myrtle Beach is one of the top golf destinations in the U.S., boasting over 100 courses!
4. Outer Banks, North Carolina
Ideal For: Couples and Adventure Seekers
Why Go: The Outer Banks (or OBX, as the locals call it) are a stretch of wild, wind-swept barrier islands known for their wide-open beaches, rolling sand dunes, and charming seaside towns. RV parks and campgrounds here range from rustic oceanfront spots to full-service resorts—many with boardwalk access right to the beach. It’s a dream destination for travelers who want a mix of chill vibes, rich history, and outdoor action. Plus, it’s far less crowded than many East Coast beach hubs.
Activities:
Kite surf or windsurf in the Atlantic.
Explore Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
Climb the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse (the tallest in the U.S.).
Why Go: Padre Island National Seashore is a haven for wildlife and solitude. With miles of undeveloped beaches, it’s perfect for RVers seeking a quiet, nature-filled experience.
Activities:
Birdwatching and turtle watching (seasonal).
Fishing and kayaking in the Laguna Madre.
Beachcombing for unique shells.
Fun Fact: Padre Island is the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world!
Summer. Is. Calling! And for lots of RVers, that means it’s time to pack up, hit the road, and chase the sun from coast to coast. Whether you’re rolling solo, planning a romantic coastal escape, or rallying the family for some serious sandcastle action, America’s beaches are open for adventure — and they’re more RV-friendly than ever.
So, we’ve rounded up the top RV-friendly beaches where you can park, play, and soak up summer the way it’s meant to be.
1. Key West, Florida
Ideal For: Couples and Solo Travelers
Why Go:Key West is the epitome of laid-back island charm. Picture yourself sipping a mojito at sunset, toes in the sand, with your RV just steps away. The island’s RV-friendly parks offer full hookups and easy access to the beach. While Key West is generally pretty RV-friendly, it is important to note that due to limited space, reservations are highly recommended — especially during peak season.
Activities:
Snorkel or dive in crystal-clear waters.
Explore the vibrant nightlife on Duval Street.
Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.
Fun Fact: Key West is the southernmost point in the continental U.S., just 90 miles north of Cuba!
2. Santa Cruz, California
Ideal For: Families and Nature Lovers
Why Go: Santa Cruz boasts a perfect blend of surf culture and natural beauty. RV parks here are nestled among redwoods or right on the beach, offering a serene escape with plenty of family-friendly activities.
Fun Fact: Santa Cruz is known as the birthplace of surfing on the U.S. mainland!
3. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Ideal For: Families and Group Getaways
Why Go: With over 60 miles of sandy shores, Myrtle Beach is a haven for RVers. The area offers numerous RV parks with direct beach access, making it easy to enjoy the surf and sun.
Activities:
Play mini-golf at one of the many themed courses.
Visit the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel for panoramic views.
Explore the boardwalk and local seafood restaurants.
Fun Fact: Myrtle Beach is one of the top golf destinations in the U.S., boasting over 100 courses!
4. Outer Banks, North Carolina
Ideal For: Couples and Adventure Seekers
Why Go: The Outer Banks (or OBX, as the locals call it) are a stretch of wild, wind-swept barrier islands known for their wide-open beaches, rolling sand dunes, and charming seaside towns. RV parks and campgrounds here range from rustic oceanfront spots to full-service resorts—many with boardwalk access right to the beach. It’s a dream destination for travelers who want a mix of chill vibes, rich history, and outdoor action. Plus, it’s far less crowded than many East Coast beach hubs.
Activities:
Kite surf or windsurf in the Atlantic.
Explore Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
Climb the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse (the tallest in the U.S.).
Why Go: Padre Island National Seashore is a haven for wildlife and solitude. With miles of undeveloped beaches, it’s perfect for RVers seeking a quiet, nature-filled experience.
Activities:
Birdwatching and turtle watching (seasonal).
Fishing and kayaking in the Laguna Madre.
Beachcombing for unique shells.
Fun Fact: Padre Island is the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world!
