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PUBLISHED SINCE 1965www.clickoncamping.caVOLUME 60 - NUMBER 1SPRING 2025A MERTON PUBLICATIONISSUE #21860Our 60th Anniversary IssueSCOPE WILL BE COMING TO THIS WEBSITE SOON!PUBLISHED SINCE 1965www.clickoncamping.caVOLUME 59 - NUMBER 2SUMMER 2024A MERTON PUBLICATIONISSUE #217LITTLE GUY TEARDROP TRAILER IN THE MILKY WAY

Scope RV Camping MagazinePage 2 - Spring 2025

Iconic views of Western Brook Pond in Gros Morne National Park certainly worth the effort!By Newfoundland and Labrador Travel and Harold Merton Whenever someone sees and awe-inspiring Western Brook Pond Fjord, they may ask, “How can I get my picture taken here, at this exact location?” The truth of the matter is that it is not a simple process to reach the point for this picture. There is no road hiding behind the camera-person with a busload of tourists waiting for their turn to jump in place and take the coveted “arms upraised” position. To get to this location involves a hike that requires a moderate-to-high level of tness. For many people, it will be one of the most challenging, and most rewarding, experiences of their lifetime. However, as Clem Reid, hiking guide with BonTours points out, “the fact that you can get there, the fact that it’s tough to get there, and the fact that not everyone is willing to go there, is what makes it special.” Of course, it is not necessary to partake in this hike to enjoy the maj-esty of the Western Brook Pond Fjord in Newfoundand’s Gros Morne National Park but a 45-min-ute walk (about 3 kms as I remem-ber it) will take you to stunning vis-tas and a dock where you can step on board a tour boat for a two-hour trip through the fjord, which offers equally as stunning views. We did that walk when we visited Newfoundland as part of a cara-van of 19 units led by Sharon and Rudy Sandau of the Sarnia 4Ts a few years ago. It was one heck of a walk for me even in those days but we made it and it was worth it! However, for the more advanced adventurer, there are a few options to hike up the eastern edge of the gulch for that once-in-a-lifetime photo op.Option 1 – Day Hike of Western Brook Pond Gorge Your rst option is a relatively new tour offered by BonTours. They offer a guided day hike to this exact location where you can have your picture taken. After a 45-minute walk to the dock, you take a boat shuttle that drops you and your guide off at the mouth of the fjord. Your guide brings you up to the top of the gorge and along the way pro-vides interpretation of the ecosys-tem and history of the area. Once you have taken in the view and had a well-deserved lunch break, you will head back down and hop back on the shuttle to return to the dock and the 45-minute walk back to the parking area. While the entire excursion takes about 8 hours, the actual hike from where the boat drops you off to the top of the gorge is about 3.5-4 hours depending on your hiking ability and how much you are carrying.Long Range Mountain Hike, Gros NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADORThis is the iconic view that many people covet when they think about Newfoundland’s Gros Morne National Park. Newfoundland and Labra-dorTravel photo.Morne National ParkOption 2 – Multi-Day Hike of the Long Range Traverse Hiking Trail Your second option is to hike the entire Long Range Traverse, which is about 35km and a mul-tiple day hike (usually about 3-4 nights). It is part of the Long Range Mountains and marks the north end of the Appalachian moun-tain range. It goes without saying that you should be an experienced hiker to take this option. In fact, Parks Canada requires hikers of the Long Range Traverse to pass a warden’s meeting whereby proof of knowledge of navigational tools is required. Similar to the day hike option, the Long Range Traverse hike starts with a boat tour at Western Brook Pond where you get dropped off to the mouth of the fjord. On day 1 of hiking you reach this exact location, and you then continue on the trail for a couple of Continued on page 34Spring 2025 - Page 3Scope RV Camping Magazine

PUBLISHED SINCE 1965CANADA’S FIRST RV CAMPING PUBLICATIONCanada’s Oldest Camping and RV PublicationMerton MediaTelephone (519) 867-3993Advertising Rates FULL PAGE $200*HALF PAGE $120*QUARTER PAGE $70*Smaller ads at comparable rates*With advertiser supplying pdf or JPEG le of ad ready for pagesPublished BY Canadian Campers FOR Canadian CampersPublisher accredited in Photo-Journalism by Professional Photographers of Canada, Inc.SPRING 2025VOLUME 60, NUMBER 1 - ISSUE # 218Regular FeaturesTravel ArticlesOur CoverMade by MacThis publication is produced on Macintosh computers647/4977/7997Scope RV Camping Magazine, 1799 St. Clair Parkway, Courtright ON N0N 1H0 Telephone (519) 867-3993Website: www.clickoncamping.ca www.clickoncamping.comEditorial pageChicken recipesFoodland Ontario recipesPhoto columnAn Independent Magazine Founded and Owned By Harold MertonPublished Under Licence ByMERTON MEDIA1799 St. Clair ParkwayCourtright ON N0N 1H0Publisher and Advertising ManagerHAROLD MERTONEditorial AssistantELAINE MERTONEditorial AssistantSHAUN MERTONWarehouse ManagerSHANNON MERTONEditorial ContributorsThis Issue Lynn Acre - Barb TurnerFaye SwanburgEscapees RV ClubFoodland OntarioChicken Farmers of CanadaCamping Today MagazineGoRVing.ca - OTIP InuranceSue Ann Jaffarian -Don and Rocky LumleyHayley Gendron & Taylor BurkFamily Motor Coach AssociationPampered Chef - Michael LambertLori and Don McCarthyCatherine Dale - Laura KingThomas McDonoughFCRV CampventionMichigan Blue Water MixerTri-County Travellers RondeauOPA Fall Campout4Ts Thanksgiving CampoutOPA Retiree CampoutThunder In The Valley Music Campout4Ts Scout Camp CampoutOur cover picture this issue features a big “6-0” to mark our 60th anniversary issue. No other RV or camping publication in Canada has ever reached this milestoneSpecial Features713212235638993INSIDE THIS ISSUETHIS IS OUR FIRST ISSUE OF OUR 60th YEARSCOPE IS ONE YEAR OLDER THAN THE SUPERBOWL!Club ActivitiesNew York State ParksVisit the Erie Canal3342424343Indiana’s RV Hall of FameKite secrets from Don LumleyCamping with a babyWhy I may not buy an electric carHitch accident injures camperHobbitstee Wildlife RescueShady characters we have metDodge 20th HEMI anniversaryEarly days camping memoriesFull time RV livingKeeping rodents out of the RVCheck your water damage coverageChicken food safetyRV camping tips from FMCANewfoundland Features 35121417405455565986Whale watching in Newfoundland Upcoming Events919203644456067697174758291FCRV National Retiree Rally 2025Toronto Sportsmen’s Show 2025OPA Spring Campout 2025FMCA International Rally 2025FCRV International Campvention 2025Gros Morne National ParkNewfoundland UNESCO sitesBird watching in NewfoundlandRuby Falls, TennesseeSt. Pierre et Miquelon IslandsNewfoundland whalesQuidi Vidi NewfoundlandCape Spear LighthouseNewfoundland’s Whaling HeritageL’anse aux Meadows historyNewfoundland’s Signal HillTravel ArticlesYou will nd extensive features on Newfound-land and Labrador in this issue. Our previous RV trip to the province in a group of 19 units was one of the best and most memorable RV trips we have ever taken. Readers should make this province a destination in their camping sched-ule at least once. You will enjoy the scenery, the food and of course, the friendly people.Copyright Notice Page 49

Newfoundland’s ve UNESCO sites The educational, scientic, and cultural arm of the United Nations, UNESCO, has identied sites all over the world that are of outstand-ing natural and cultural signicance. Newfoundland and Labrador is home to four World Heritage Sites and one GeoPark, and no visit to the province would be complete without making it to at least one of them – and maybe you can collect the set.The Tablelands – Gros Morne National Park It took 485 million years for Mother Nature to create Gros Morne Na-tional Park, a place unlike any other on Earth. The park provides a rare example of the process of continen-tal drift, where deep ocean crust and the rust-coloured rocks of the Earth’s mantle lie exposed at the Tablelands. More recent glacial ac-tion has resulted in some spectacu-lar scenery – a demonstration of the raw and enigmatic beauty of the physical world. A near inexhaustible source of inspiration, Gros Morne is home to amazing hikes, breathtak-ing vistas, and relaxing tours of its geological wonders.Viking Visitors – L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site Canada’s inaugural UNESCO site, the Viking settlement at the tip of Newfoundland’s Great North-ern Peninsula, was the rst real evidence that these European adventurers had reached the new world over 1,000 years ago – long before Columbus. The excavated remains of wood-framed, peat-turf buildings are similar to those found in Norse Greenland and Iceland, and are the only authenticated site in North America. You will be able to see how the Vikings lived and enjoy tales of their adventures long ago.Whaling Heritage – Red Bay Na-tional Historic Site Established in the 16th-century by Basque mariners, Red Bay is now an archaeological site that provides the earliest, most complete, and best-preserved testimony of the European whaling tradition. The site, called Gran Baya by those that sailed here every summer, became a major source of the whale oil that lit the homes of Europe. These days it is a stop along the Labrador Coastal Drive, and home to whale bones, a restored chalupa, and an interpretation centre near the beach.Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve On the southeastern tip of the Ava-lon Peninsula, this narrow, 17-kilo-metre-long strip of rugged coastal cliffs dates back 565 million years. Representing the oldest known col-lection of large, multicellular fossils anywhere, these fossils illustrate the beginning of macroscopic, di-verse life on Earth: the appearance of large, biologically complex organ-The Tablelands – Gros Morne National ParkL’Anse aux Meadows National Historic SiteWhaling Heritage – Red Bay National Historic SiteContinued on page 53Spring 2025 - Page 5Scope RV Camping Magazine

Scope RV Camping MagazinePage 6 - Spring 2025VOLUME 60 - NUMBER 1SPRING 2025EDITORIALBY HAROLD MERTONPUBLISHERWe reach our 60th year of publication! Wow! 60 years! We have reached a milestone that no other camping or RV publication in Canada has ever reached and we are proud to be the industry leader in many ways. Little did I think way back 60 years ago when I was putting together the rst issue of Scope that we would still be producing the publication in 2025. Offset printing had come into popularity a few years prior and with offset everything is photo-graphic so it was right down our alley when we decided to pro-duce a camping publication. As I said at the time “I was tired of seeing no articles on Cana-dian camping in U.S. magazines and a trip down the Colorado River was not my idea of sto-ries of interest to the Canadian camper.” We began printing that issue on 8 1/2 by 14” paper, gathering the pages together and fasten-ing them into a small magazine. . Our rst press run was just a few thousand copies. I had been writing a CB radio column for a Canadian maga-zine called Electron. Ads for CB radios took up the majority of ad pages in the publication but the publisher decided to drop both the CB and shortwave radio columns even though those departments were paying most of the bills. I was annoyed at him but he would not listen and so I felt it was time for a publication that would serve the Canadian camping families that were inter-ested in CB radio. We distributed copies free and before long we were get-ting requests for camping clubs that were not into CB radio and within a couple of issues our press run had increased to over 5,000 copies. Printing 5,000 copies of a mult-page publication (both sides of the paper) was an enormous chore and so my friend Clive Royson who actually did the printing suggested I go to see a new printing company in London that printed on a large offset web newspaper press - Webco. This company printed local weekly newspapers, many of whom had press runs of just couple thousand copies, so we were a plum job for this com-pany. Our printing costs actually dropped by going this route. In order to get the most eco-nomical publication we printed on a high quality newsprint and later on added a much ner paper they referred to as “book paper”. It was after we started doing one section of the publica-tion on this “book paper” that we began running full color pictures and ads. Later on as printing methods became much better the same company printed sections for us on what they referred to as “heat press”. This is when we began adding more colour pictures and ads. In those early days we needed to get a colour separation made of each color picture we wanted to run and another company produced them for us at a cost of about $80 each picture. As you can see this was very ex-pensive. To improve quality of the colour reproductions we had one or more sections of the magazine printed by lithography, a very ne printing method. These sections were shipped to our major printer where they were assembled into the magazine in the bindery. Later on we purchased saddle-stiched bindery equipment and we assembled the sections into magazines ourselves. Advertising revenue paid for production and a staff about eight full-time people who worked for us. Subsequently computers came into play in the production of newspapers and magazines like ours and we were one of the rst to use MacIntosh computers for not only writing, but also the manipulation of digital photo-graphs and even the assembly of our pages. About ten years ago we sold our commercial property on the westerly edge of London after having moved to the Sarnia, On-tario area. We are now located on the shores of the St. Clair River directly across from the U.S.A. The window in my ofce gives me a view of that country. We no longer have to pay $80 a picture for colour separations and since going exclusively to an internet publication we no Continued on page 78

FCRV members from across North America gather in Herkimer, New York for association’s 64th annual CampventionAn aerial view of the Herkimer County Fairgrounds in Herkimer, New York during the 64th annual Family Campers and RVers annual Campvention. Photos by Claire Gunning.Committee members post a reg-istration sign just before campers started arriving.By Harold Merton Over 300 people from 147 fami-lies and in 144 units attended the 64th Annual FCRV Campvention in Herkimer, New York. Mother nature did not cooperate 100% this year as rain, cold and an EF1 tornado hit the area. However the campers fared through every-thing and had a fantastic Campven-tion that was loaded with activities for young and old alike. A fe and drum band entertained the group before opening ceremo-nies and during the evening as 26 colourful ags decorated the grounds representing those who had attended. A Family Fun Day, teen activities, youth activities and games for the adults all kept the campers busy. The teens headed off to nearby Wolf Mountain where they helped with cleanup and restoration work on the grounds. Thy heard from wolf experts on the details of the wolf habitat and habits. On their way back to the camping site they stopped off at the Root Farm Challenge Course (a 70 acre site in Central New York) where they had the opportunity to try many of the activities there. Many were tired out and it was rumored that some asked if they could have their pizza supper deliv-ered a little early so they could hit their beds. The annual TP Insurance feature was again very popular. Teens sell insurance tickets to campers in case their RV gets toilet papered during the campout. They sold al-most 3,000 tickets with another 200 being sold during the drawing. All those buyers are entered into draws for various prizes (this year nearly 90) . Top ticket sellers were: Colin Hicks, Ian Burns and Christina Mitchell. The event raised about $1,200 for teen events at the 2025 Campvention. On Family Fun Day the teens sold hot dogs and hamburgers to raise funds.Continued on page 27Spring 2025 - Page 7Scope RV Camping Magazine

Scope RV Camping MagazinePage 8 - Spring 2025

RV Hall of Fame makes great destination!They offer free boon-docking overnight campingInterior of the RV/MH Hall of Fame Museum in Elkhart, Indiana.Photos courtesy of the museum.Exterior of the RV industry sponsored RV/MH Hall of Fame MuseumBy Harold Merton If you are an avid RVer you are no doubt interested in the history of our industry. Situated in the midst of RV manu-facturing in Indiana is an industry-sponsored museum where you can view many of the early examples of early RVs. Many people have written about this attraction and we found a very good example on the Can-AM RV website that owner Andy Thomson has given us permission to use. We are also using portions of an account by a Winnebago owner that appeared on the Winnebago website. It is a great place to visit and spend a few hours and we thought it was time we featured it again to keep new readers informed. Keep in mind that they offer free boon-docking camping without any hookups for overnight visitors. Those who wish a 30 amp electric hookup can obtain a site at $40 per night as well. Read on and enjoy a little history of the RV industry. And yes Scope is featured there and has been for many, many years! The RV/MH Hall of Fame is a 100,000 sq. ft. museum in Elkhart, Indiana that features a variety of historical recreational vehicles from Airstream, Winnebago and other American makers. The foundation states that their primary goals are to “To create a display of historic Road Trip to Elkhart IndianaThe RV Hall of Fame is a “Must See.”By Miachael Lambert - used with permission of Can-Am RVRV/MH products in a museum for the education and enjoyment of the public.” The museum features a variety of recreation vehicles dating back 100 years and continuing through the 1980s. The oldest vehicle on dis-play is a 1913 Earl Travel Trailer and is the oldest surviving speci-men known. The museum is divided into areas that highlight key events in the history of RVs, such as the introduction of the rst microwave oven, the rst indoor toilet and other features. One of the vehicles on display is the 1931 Chevrolet Housecar that was offered as a bribe to Mae West by Paramount Pictures, to per-suade her to make movies. The smallest Airstream ever built is also to be found in the museum. The 1958 Airstream “‘der Kleiner Prinz”, is only 10 feet long and was a prototype that was considered for the European market. We spent about two hours ex-ploring the museum and watching Continued on page 10Spring 2025 - Page 9Scope RV Camping Magazine

RV/MH Hall of Fame Museum continuedvideos in the theatre. There is a complete section of the complex dedicated to the manufactured home industry. I loved walking through these well designed period pieces with their attention to detail. You certainly nd the weird and wonderful of the RV world here. The custom, one of a kind, home-built van based on a 1976 Cadillac Eldorado might be the most photo-graphed vehicle in the collection. It is indeed a show stopper! By Sue Ann Jaffarian The RH/MH Hall of Fame is di-vided into several sections. On the rst oor is a theatre showing a short but informational video on the industry, as well as the GoRVing Hall, Exhibitors Hall, and Founders Hall. Upstairs is a large comfortable library containing volumes on the industry’s history, vehicles, vendors, etc. If you need to research any-thing about RVs, this is the place to go. Along the walls upstairs are photos of the founders and individuals inducted into the Hall of Fame. The RV/MH Hall of Fame is oper-ated by the RV Heritage Founda-tion, Inc., a non-prot company. I had the privilege of interviewing Darryl Searer, the president of the foundation. He was very generous with his time and knowledge. He has been in the RV industry in one way or another for decades before being tapped to run the foundation and turn it around when it nearly closed. Now it is debt-free, supported by donations and income from the events center. In addition, many of the largest RV companies donated large amounts of money, including an extremely generous donation from Winnebago Industries. Elkhart, IN, is considered the RV capital of the world. Approximately 80% of all RVs in North America are built there. According to Mr. Searer, the RV/MH Hall of Fame has more than 20,000 visitors a year, with atten-dance increasing approximately 15% a year. When I asked him about the ongoing popularity of RV-ing, he said, “The popularity of camping and RVs has always been a means to an end. That being, using your RV to pursue your passion away from home. Every time I give a tour of our museum, I look at the 1913 Earl Travel Trailer and then when we go through the new Winnebago in the GoRVing Hall it reminds me that Enjoy this account of the museum from the Winnebago website1937 Hunt Housecar.1928 Pierce Arrow Fleet Housecar.An example of the realistic camping displays.Continued on page 111931 Chevrolet Housecar built for Mae West.Photos courtesy RV/MH Hall of Fame Museum Page 10 - Spring 2025 Scope RV Camping Magazine

RV/MH Hall of Fame Museum continuedthe life is much the same as over 100 years ago, but the amenities to-day are much more convenient and entertaining and there are many more passions to seek.”Favorite Exhibits & Displays The GoRVing Hall promotes RVing to the public, while the Exhibitors Hall shows products and services used by and offered to the RVing industry, such as Onan, Thetford, and Dometic. My favorite exhibit was Founders Hall which artfully displays RVs and travel trailers throughout history. The displays are often set up in campsite arrangements and all have informational plaques. It would be impossible to tell you about all of the great vehicles on display. Some you can enter, but most are dis-played to show their best features. Many have all original equipment and features.Exhibits at the RV/MH Hall of Fame A few of my favorites were: An Earl Travel Trailer built in 1913 and towed by a Model T. 1913 -- over a hundred years ago! The rst travel trailer with a “slide.” It was built in 1916 and was called an automobile telescope apartment. Mae West’s chauffeured house car, circa 1931, a custom-built ve-hicle to shuttle the star to shooting locations in comfort. A travel trailer, circa 1939, custom built for Charles Lindbergh. Between the West house car and the Lindbergh trailer is a 1935 Bowlus Road Chief, built by sea-plane designer Hawley Bowlus. It looks like today’s Airstream trailer. Wonder why? (Hint: The Airstream company bought the design of the 1935 Bowlus Road Chief in 1936). 1933 Ford Camp Kar built by Walter Runkle who custom-built these Camp Kars for customers from 1933-1947. It was one of the The 1935 Bowlus Road Chief trailer. The design was sold to Airstream and became the basis of their well-known Airstream Clipper trailer.1964 Clark Cortez Motorhome. It was one of the rst front wheel drive motorhomes and was built by a company that made forklifts and construction equip-ment. It was also on the wish list of your publisher in those early days!rst house cars built with the Ford V8 engine. The museum has it set up like a campsite. I felt I could move right in and start camping. The nal display, which was a 1967 Winnebago Motor Home built on a six-cylinder Ford chas-sis and was one of the rst motor-ized RVs built by Winnebago. In addition to the display of the motorhome, Winnebago also has a large display about the company and a video talking about upcoming innovations in the industry. This is a great place to visit if you have an interest in RV history so if you are planning a trip to the Indi-ana area consider allowing a day stop here to really enjoy some of the RV industry’s fabulous history.Probably one of the strangest RVs on display was this convert-ed Cadillac Eldorado.This 1967 19’ Winnebago was a forerunner in the industry and on the wish list of many RVers at the time including Scope’s publisher.Photos courtesy RV/MH Hall of Fame Museum Sping 2025 - Page 11Scope RV Camping Magazine

Off the beaten path bird watching in Newfoundland and Labrador This travel article is brought to you in collaboration with Catherine Dale and Laura King. Travelling throughout Newfound-land and Labrador’s back-country is all about the excitement of embarking into the unknown, and there’s nothing like getting into the remote corners of boreal forest to wake up your inner wilderness explorer. To know the wildlife of the island of Newfoundland means knowing its birds. Our iconic and well-loved moose are routinely spotted and caribou if you know where to look, but seeing and hearing birds is a part of daily life across the island. For a province known for its puf-ns, it might come as a surprise that Newfoundland and Labrador is host to hundreds of other bird species (411 at last count). So it’s well worth spending some time getting to know all the other little gems that stud our landscapes, like ycatchers and falcons, warblers and wigeons, bunting and bitterns, kingshers and kinglets. There are many spots to bird, and you’ve likely heard of places like Witless Bay and Cape St. Mary’s. But some of the best birding is found in central Newfoundland, where the wide open spaces of the more remote areas provide an abundance of boreal forest habitat, and breeding bird densities can be higher. So exploring the back-country and bays can really pay off in a trip that’s low on stress, high in birds, and full of pure nature.Baie Verte Peninsula If the early bird gets the worm, then the early birder gets the bird. While getting up before sunrise is a challenge, early mornings offer the best birding, so it’s worth it. In La Scie, a small town near the tip of the Baie Verte Peninsula, your day might begin with encounters with Northern Waterthrush and This great shot by Barrett & McK-ay photographers shows a pufn landing on water.A nesting OspreyPhotos courtesy Newfoundland & Labrador TravelBeautiful white Gannets at Cape St. Mary Ecological Region.Pine. The Pine Grosbreaks are a particularly eye-catching bird thanks to their scarlet red colour-ing—they’re also friendly birds, not too wary of humans, and not too energetic (which has earned them their nickname of “Mope” here in Newfoundland and Labrador). As you’re bird-watching, don’t for-get to take in the stunning coastal views punctuated by colourfully decorated sheds, picnic tables, and wharves. Nestled into emerald green forested hillsides, this small shing village offers miles and miles of back-country for bird explora-tions. Summer evenings on the Baie Verte Peninsula mean comfy ac-commodations that bring a perfect day of birding to a perfect close. Grand Falls-Windsor No birding excursion in Central Newfoundland is complete without a visit to Grand Falls-Windsor’s Corduroy Brook Nature Centre and Trail, where you can watch families of Tree Swallows zip and zoom over the gorgeous, expansive marshes that surround the nature interpretation centre. The American Bittern, a type of heron, can be seen and heard here—listen for their gulping calls echoing repeatedly across the cat-tails. Heading south, the community of St. Alban’s on Newfoundland’s southern shore stuns with its bright blue open skies, wide estuary, and Page 12 - Spring 2025 Scope RV Camping MagazineContinued on page 87

Michigan FCRV clubs hold annual Bluewater Mixer The Blue Water Area Mixer was held September 27, 28, and 29, 2024 at Imlay City Michigan with the theme of “Send in the Clowns”. Eighteen units attended with 10 Canadian and 8 American camping families all having a good time. There was card bingo Friday evening with “Stupid the Clown” stomping around with size 16 shoes!!!! Saturday morning started with cof-fee, hot chocolate, and danishes. Carnival games were then held with 10 different varieties followed by all the chicken noodle soup you could eat made by Donna Zauner at noon. A campre was going all Saturday until midnight. The evening program awarded prizes to all winners of games. Door prizes , the family history of “Stu-pid the Clown”, and ended with Al Fitzgerald’s 89th birthday party. Sunday morning had the popular Praise Gang Puppeteers holding the church service. All the campers left with pleasant memories and a wish for a safe ride home. Contributed by Bullwinkle (Don Lumley) and Pinkie (Rocky Lumley)Campoutphotos by Don LumleyDale Cull of Ontario poses for a picture while his wife watches.A handsome group of clowns at the event. Left to right are: Barb Blan-kensop, Don Lumley, Bonnie, Bob Mather and Rocky Lumley.Campers really got into the clown theme. Left to right are Rocky Lumley, Zoe, Isabella and Don Lum-ley who played “Stupid The Clown”A group of Canadians enjoyed the card bingo.Spring 2025 - Page 13Scope RV Camping Magazine

Adventure Awaits when you visIt Ruby Falls in Tennessee. You can pick your adventure and journey deep inside historic Look-out Mountain to see the tallest underground cave waterfall open to the public in the United States! You get to descend 260 feet by a glass-front elevator and walk the cavern trail to the thundering waterfall. Discovered in 1928 Ruby Falls was accidentally dis-covered by Leo Lambert in 1928 deep inside Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Leo named the waterfall and cave after his wife, Ruby, and opened the iconic Chattanooga attraction to the public in 1929. Today, Ruby Falls welcomes guests from around the world to enjoy cave adventures, spectacular views of the Cumberland Plateau, Ticket Prices The journey deep into historic Lookout Mountain is $16.95 to $39.95. The Waterfall Walk is $26.95 adults, $25.95 seniors, $16.95 kids 3-12 History Tour is $39.95 adult. Zip line (which includes a 40’ Tennessee’s Ruby Falls offers great cave adventuresCHATTANOOGA, TENNESSEELantern tours are popularRock formations inside the cave.Above ground waterfalls. Photos courtesy Ruby FallsA zip line and rock wall are avail-able on one of the tours.Beautiful views deep in the cave.gliding zip lines, luxury treehouse lodging and award-winning special events! You can create memories around the table in a historic castle that of-fers casual meals, snacks and local craft beer. You can see for miles! You’ll discover breathtaking views from Lookout Mountain TowerAccess included with cave adven-tures. Stay in a treehouse If you wish you can spend the night in a luxury treehouse. "It's a fun activity to go 260 feet down in an elevator to explore the underground caverns. The temperature is a constant 60 degrees F in the cave. Continued on page 15Scope RV Camping MazgazinePage 14 - Spring 2025

Spring 2025 - Page 15Scope RV Camping MagazineChatanooga’s Ruby Falls continuedclimbing wall) is $21.95 Gentle Walking Tour is $39.95 but no children under 12 are allowed. Note that they offer an an-nual pass at $46.95 for adults and $26.95 for kids up to 12. I It may be a better value if you would like to visit more than one day. Tickets are sold ON LINE ONLY.Ruby Falls1720 S. Scenic HwyChattanooga TN 37409Phone (423) 821-2544www.rubyfalls.com If you plan to visit Ruby Falls Cave Adventure be sue to con-sider a trip on the Lookout Moun-tain Incline Railway to the top of Lookout Mountain. Take the scenic path less traveled on a funicular railway system in a trolley-style car that climbs Lookout Mountain, going straight up at a 72.7% grade. The Incline Railway, built in 1895, originally brought locals up and down the mountain. In summertime, TRAVEL THE INCLINE RAILWAY TO THE TOP!the windows of the trolley are open for a breezy mile-long trip and in winter, the trolley becomes a warm, cozy cocoon for the scenic trek. Catch the Incline Railway at the top of Lookout Mountain or the St. Elmo station at the base of the mountain. Only a handful of funicu-lar railways remain in the United States, making this a journey few people have the opportunity to experience.Lookout Mountain Incline Rail-way3917 St. Elmo Ave.,Chatanooga TN 37409Phone 1-423-821-4224www.lookoutmounain.comThe Incline Railway leaves the St. Elmo area of Chatanooga and travels a one-mile route to Point Park at the top of Lookout Mountain.You’ll get a fantastic view from Point Park’s observation deck. Photos courtesy Lookout Mountain Incline Railway. •Chatanooga’s southern location in the state of Tennessee.The Incline Railway heads up a one-mile route to the top of Look-out Mountain.

Page 16 - Spring 2025 Scope RV Camping Magazine

When in Newhoundland be sure to consider a trip to the French islands of Sainte-Pierre-et-MiquelonThe French islands of Sainte-Pierre-et-Miquelon offer countless beautiful scenes like this one.Photos courtesy Tourism Sainte-Pierre-et-Miquelon Visitors can walk the colourful streets of the island and visit the unique shops there.By Harold Merton If you travel to Newfoundland, while you are enjoying Canada’s unique province consider a side trip to France. It is just an hour and a half away and is a delightful experi-ence! I am referring of course to the French islands of Sainte-Pierre-et-Miquelon that sit in the North West Atlantic Ocean just off the tip of Newfoundland. The islands are in fact a part of France and it is inhabited by French citizens who’s ancestors no doubt were heavily involved in the shing industry. When we visited with a tour to Newfoundland organized by Sha-ron and Rudy Sandau of the Sar-nia 4Ts chapter of FCRV we took a day trip from Fortune, Newfound-land to the islands. It was an hour and a half trip by boat to the islands but was well worth the time, effort and cost. The day we went the ferry from Fortune arrived about 1 p.m. just as a lot of the shops were closing for their afternoon siesta. However a very enterprising gentleman who operated a tour bus was right n he ball recruiting visitors for an exten-sive tour of the islands by his bus. I must say I was impressed both by his keenness to “capture” pas-sengers who otherwise might not have had much do to for the next couple of hours because many of the shops were closed and the fact that he maintained a vintage bus that took us all through the islands accompanied by detailed instruc-tions in English.Continued on page 18Spring 2025 - Page 17Scope RV Camping Magazine

Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon continued The bake shop had done a great business because they remained open to cater to hungry tourists who were embarking from the ferry. The islands are very unique and give one the impression that you have stepped back in time to earlier days when things were not quite as hectic and perhaps a little more enjoyable. The islands are a self-governing overseas collectivity of France and produce vegetables, poultry, cattle, sheep, pigs and of course sh. I suspect that one of the main rea-sons France wants to retain own-ership of the islands is the shing rights. When last we heard, each inhabitant received an annual sub-There are 117 km of roads on the islands with about 85 of them paved.Photos by Mathieu Dupuis courtesy of Tourism Saint-Pierre-et-Mique-lon.sidy from the government of France About 84% of the island’s exports go to Canada with about 14% going to France. There are 117 km of roads with about 85 of them paved . The ferry leaves nearby Fortune, Newfoundland daily during the summer season. The island is also connected by air. Ferry fare for adults is about 24 Euros return (the Euro is worth about $1.50 Canadian or $1.10 US)You do not need a passport as they accept a multitude of ID types including a driver’s license to clear customs at the port. The ferries, there are two main ships, the Nordet and Suroit and Ropav can carry about 188 passen-gers and about 18 vehicles. It is a leisurely ride especially on a nice summer day. There are a number of very ne dining establishments there that are in many cases world-famous. There are also a number of hotels to accommodate these who wish to stay a day or two. One source of tours is hde-voyag-es.com Tel 33 6 01 85 82 26 They offer a number of tours of the is-lands from one day to a week. Visit their website for more information.A beautiful section where the ocean meets the islands on both sides.A cluster of homes on the island.Page 18 - Spring 2025Scope RV Camping Magazine

Don Lumley’s great kite ying tipsBy Harold Merton I nally found someone who really knows how to y a kite! It was at the FCRV OPA Fall Rally in Brigden, Ontario that I was sitting with old friends Rocky and Don Lumley of the Michigan Aqua-Jets when I learned that Don was quite a kite yer. We were in the activity hall when I decided to go to my car for some-thing when Don said to me “See if my kite is still ying!” I took a few steps to the door and looked up but couldn’t see any kites. “No I don’t see it!” I said to him. “Look way up!” he replied. I did and lo and behold way, way up in the clouds was the tiny image of the kite. It really was a way up there! I am quite sure in stating that it was at least a mile up in the sky uttering along. Afterwards I took some time to talk about Don’s kites while Rocky kindly made me a bologna and cheese sandwich, something I have not had for years! I really enjoyed it! Don recommends the triangular kites because he says “All they want to do is y!” Now how does he control all that string needed to hold onto the kite? He uses a type of thread that they use to manufacture car seats. It is very light-weight and strong. He pays so little for it I could not believe it. He says he has four and a half miles of string on his reel and he paid less than ten bucks for it at a store in him hometown of Marys-ville, Michigan. When it comes time to reel the kite in he uses the reverse feature on a portable electric drill. He just pulls the trigger and slowly it reels in the kite from impossible heights. The one item he uses that many people might not think about is a shing item - a snap swivel. This keeps the line from tangling! Now despite my thoughts that to have a good ying kite you have to buy an expensive kite. “Not so!” says Don. He buys inexpensive Delta shaped kites that cost him less than $5 each. That way if he loses one it is no big deal. He sometimes ies kites with other like-minded friends and one of them actually lost their kite when an airplane caught it. Now that is “way up there!” I am sure in Canada there would be some rule that would get the kite ier in trouble if it was in the air-plane’s way. That kite ew way up in the sky for quite some time and it was only when he decided to reel it in because there were activities in the building they were going to attend. Don knows his kites and now I know where to get my kite advice!Don Lumley with his Minion kiteWhen it comes time to reel in his kite Don simply pulls the trigger on his portable drill set in the reverse mode.While it may be hard to see, this shing “snap swivel” keeps the string from tangeling.Scope RV Camping MagazineSpring 2025 - Page 19We get press releases - lots of them! Most publications these days get lots of press releases from com-panies wishing to get free public-ity. Sometimes the volume can be overwhelming. When we used fax machines we got 30 to 40 feet of them every night with most coming from government. When we are on assignment we are handed fold-ers with material and photos in the hopes we will publish some of them. Probably the best is when we are handed a jump stick full of stories and photos like we received from the city of Sault. Ste. Marie, Michigan. We now receive most of our press releases at harold.merton@yahoo.caA great press release method. A jump stick is our choice for the best!

Courtesy Go Rving CanadaWhen our little one arrived, we thought our summer camping dreams were off the table. “Can we really go camping with a newborn?” It felt like a wild idea. But camping has always been a huge part of our lives, and as an outdoor and travel photographer, summer trips are a busy time of year for me. So, we decided to take the plunge. Instead of parking the RV for the season, we dove in headrst—and guess what? Camping with our newborn wasn’t nearly as crazy as we imagined. In fact, it was the perfect way to introduce our nine-month-old to the great outdoors. We’ve rounded up ten important things that we learned from our trip that helped make our adventure more enjoyable and stress-free. But that’s just the beginning! Keep reading for my essential packing tips and tricks, plus steps on how to prepare for your trip and what to bring to make your rst RV adven-ture with a newborn smooth and memorable.MY ADVICE FOR CAMPING WITH A NEWBORN1. Slow Your Roll No need to rush—your baby’s adjusting to RV life just like you are. Ease into it by slowing down the pace. Long drives and packed schedules? You might want to rethink that. Plan for shorter RV Camping with a baby!trips between stops, and give your little one (and yourselves) plenty of time to unwind at each destination.2. Pick Family Friendly Camp-grounds Not all campsites are cre-ated equal. Look for ones with clean facilities, easy access to water, and bonus points if they have baby gear rentals. You’ll thank yourself later.3. Stick to the Routine Babies thrive on routine, even on the road. Try to time your drives around nap time, and when they’re awake, explore, stretch, and soak up those precious family moments outside the RV.4. Make the Most of Outdoor Space Your RV’s not just the inside! Set up a cozy outdoor play area with a blanket or portable mat. Fresh air and some sunshine (with a little shade, of course) will do wonders for keeping your baby entertained.5. Be Ready for Anything Parenting is all about rolling with the punches, and camping with a newborn is no different. Whether it’s an unexpected stop or a last-minute change of plans, staying exible is the name of the game.6. Adventure, Baby Style Just because you’ve got a little one doesn’t mean your adventures have to stop. Pack the baby hiking gear and sunscreen, and get out there. Who says babies can’t enjoy the great outdoors?7. Nature Meets Nap Time Bring nature into your baby’s routine. A quiet morning walk, the sound of birds, the feeling of a breeze—it’s the perfect way to introduce your baby to the wonders of the world around them.8. Always Have a Backup Plan Things will go wrong, and that’s okay. Be ready with indoor activi-ties, know the closest hospital, and keep that exible mindset. When the unexpected happens, you’ll be ready to go with the ow.9. Power Up If your baby relies on any electron-ics—like a white noise machine or bottle warmer—make sure your RV is power-ready. Backup batteries and portable chargers are your new best friends.10. Capture the Moments This is one adventure you’re going to want to remember. Don’t forget to The family can still go camping if you heed the advice of this young family who decided to go right ahead with their newborn.Babies cam enjoy camping life if they are introduced to it properly.Photos by the author.Page 20 - Spring 2025 Scope RV Camping MagazineContinued on page 68

Tri-County Travellers hold Rondeau campoutBy Harold Merton The Tri-County Travellers are a very active and successful FCRV chapter in Southern Ontario. They captured FCRV’s chapter of the year award for North America a couple of years ago and are the envy of a lot of clubs across North America. They are very active and a recent campout at Rondeau Provincial Park proved they can have fun anywhere. This club has total participation. At this recent campout several members did a lot to make sure all the members had a good time and were well fed. Club member John Waite do-nated a mess of pickerel that he caught in Lake Erie for a great sh fry but what is a good sh dinner without chips, so club president Ben Vandevyvere decided to chop up a bunch of potatoes to make french fries. Both the potatoes and the sh got thrown into hot oil to cook and the aroma was no doubt very enticing! It turned out it just happened to be Ben’s 77th birthday so the celeb- ration was on! Members enjoyed a great feed and topped it off with birthday cake to honour Ben on his birthday. This is what group camping is all about! Other club members jumped in to help prepare the feast and by the looks of the photos they had a very good feed.Lew Acre, left, watches as Ben Vandevyvere slices up potatoes to make french fries to go along with the perch dinner that was being fried up at the Tri-County Travellers campout.The table was set for a great feed when members of the Tri-County Travellers held a campout at Ron-deau Provincial Park. Photos by Lynn Acre.Cooking up the feast.Scope RV Camping MazgazineSpring 2025 - Page 21Little Thomas Lorne McDonough Readers may remember Megan Douglas the daughter of Mabel and the late Lorne Douglas of Little Thomas Lorne McDonough in his Halloween hot dog costume Continued on page 831005 REITZEL PLACERR#1, ST. JACOBS, ONNOB 2N0PHONE (519) 664-2633FAX (519) 664-3930www.sauderscamping.com

Ontario chapters of FCRV hold annual fall campout in Brigden, OntarioCampers enjoyed a good sing-along at the evening campre accompanied by Don and Rocky Lumley of the Michigan Aqua-Jets chapter. The Lumleys are frequent attendees at Canadian FCRV camping events and always get members involved in singing activities. Scope photos by Harold Merton.Dale Cull acted as MC for the event that had a hillbilly theme. Unfortunately those missing three front teeth in Dales’s mouth were not makeup but rather the result of a hitch accident that seriously injured Dale a few days before the event.Country singer Joan Spalding of Wyoming, Ontario entertained the campers during the evening pro-gram.By Harold Merton When the Tri-County Travel-lers chapter of FCRV organize a campout you can be sure it will be not only interesting but a great deal of fun! This was the case when they held the Fall Ontario Provincial Asso-ciation of the FCRV’s campout in Brigden, Ontario on the labour day weekend. Billed as “Bubba’s Redneck Campout”, members showed up in an assortment of hillbilly attire as they took part in the many events planned for the duration of the weekend. It all started out with MC Dale Cull who is no stranger to weird outts at FCRV campouts Dale told a few corny jokes about rednecks but unfortunately the three missing front teeth he had was a result of an accident with the new trailer hitch sway bars when a part ew off and hit him in the face. He required extensive medical at-tention and was lucky in a way that he was not killed. You’ll nd more on this dangerous situation elsewhere in this issue. Members rolled in on Friday and attended the Opening Ceremonies, followed by Bubba’s Redneck Bingo. The host chapter provided hospitality afterwards.Continued on page 23 Scope RV Camping MazgazinePage 22 - Spring 2025

Fall OPA Hillbilly campout continuedDave Webster was appropriately dressed as he took part in Bub-ba’s Redneck Bingo. Scope photos by Harold Merton.Rudy Sandau, left, of the Sarnia 4Ts, watches as Adele Waite lets her rolling pin y in the Rollin’ Pin Pitch during the games at the camppoutWasher Toss is always popular at FCRV events. Here left to right are: Don Lumley, Lynn Acre, Ma-bel Douglas and Brian Chateld.“Let er rip!” Maureen Blankinsop heaves her toilet seat into the air during the Hillbilly Toilet Seat Toss at the labour day campout. After campers had a chance to visit it was off to bed because there was a full slate of activities for the follow-ing day. Saturday morning saw a few campers head across the street to the Hungry Hillbilly Restaurant (very appropriate name this year) for breakfast then back to take part in the activities. Bubba’s Redneck Games started at 10 a.m. and included the Toilet Seat Toss, Wheel Chock Chuck, the Rollin Pin Pitch and Pass The Plunger a great couples game. After lunch the popular Washer Toss took place and while some campers took part in the games others gathered in a shady spot under the trees to sing along to Don Lumley’s guitar accompanied by his wife Rocky. An ice cream social was held and we all know that campers like their cool treat. Proceeds were destined for the Petrolia Food Bank. In the evening, campers were treated to an evening of country music by local singer Joan Spald-ing who lives in nearby Wyoming, Ontario. The campers clearly enjoyed the musical entertainment then enjoyed a watermelon treat for hospitality. After a social session, campers again headed off to their rigs to rest up for Sunday’s activities. Lynn Acre conducted Bubba’s Sunday Meetin and a collection was taken up, again headed for the local food bank. Bubba’s Roadkill BBQ followed and campers devoured quite a pile of xins. Somebody,must have hit a cow or two because mine tasted a lot like beef while others said their Continued on page 24Scope RV Camping Mazgazine Spring 2025 - Page 23

OPA Fall Campout in Brigden continuedCampers lline up for ice cream. Ron Brown, left, heads through while Barbara Cronmiller, right, gets ready to dole out a bowl to the next customer. A number of the members watch the evening en-tertainment show by country singer Joan Spalding. Scope photos by Harold Merton.Terry Swanburg enjoys a hefty sandwich during a lunch break at the local Hungry Hillbilly Restau-rant right across the street from the campout.Lynn Acre conducted Bubba’s Sunday Meetin.Sharon Sandau decked out in her attire. After the BBQ, members gathered in the hall for the OPA Voting Del-egates’ Meeting. A number of important items were decided including moving the two OPA campouts from holiday week-ends to either the mid-week before or after the holiday. A number of members reported family conicts and as most mem-bers are retired they felt the change was appropriate as an experiment. A new slate of ofcers was installed and Lew and Lynn Acre will replace OPA president Jack Smye, who will continue as past president. The Taziers will now become vice-presidents. Regional Directors Faye and Terry Swanburg introduced a new banner that FCRV head ofce has had pro-duced to make other campers aware when the groups camp at locations where there are non-members in the campground. At 6 p.m it was time for Bubba’s Corn Boil and members enjoyed a great feast of local corn cooked up by the Tri-County Travellers and friends. Campers then enjoyed a bit more social time with their friends and then moved on to Bubba’s Camp-re where Don and Rocky Lumley again entertained with group sing-ing. Rockey even brought along a Continued on page 25Scope RV Camping MazgazinePage 24 - Spring 2025

OPA fall campout in Brigden continuedhamper full of noise makers so par-ticipants could really get into the ac-tion. Campers also passed along their appreciation to the Lumleys for their continued support and participation in their camping events. The following morning, which was the labour day holiday, members packed up saying their good byes to friends and vowing to meet again when the OPA holds their spring campout on dates to be announced later. The campers raised over $300 to be donated to the local food bank which means they do in fact have an impact on the communities where they camp. It was a great campout and mem-bers of the Tri-County Travellers are to be congratulated on another great camping event.Regional Directors Faye and Terry Swanburg show the new banner that national Ofce of FCRV has created to show campers who as-sociation members are when they camp at locations where other non-member campers are in attendance. At right is Past OPA President Jack Smye. New OPA ofcers were installed during the Voting Delegates’ Meeting. Lew Acre, second from left, is the new OPA President while Dave Skill-ings Field Director is treasurer and Michael and Ruth Taziar are vice presidents. At left is past president Jack Smye.The new presidents of OPA are Lew and Lynn Acre of the Tri-County Travellers.Scope RV Camping Mazgazine Spring 2025 - Page 25Photo at right: Dave Rosenberg-er, right, presents a cheque to a representative of Ronald Mc-Donald House after the recent Fall OPA Campout held in Brig-den, Ontario. The group donated $4,000 to the charity that houses the families of children staying in hospital during serious illnesses.

CAPE BRETON, NOVA SCOTIAScope RV Camping MagazinePage 26 - Spring 2025Arm of Gold Campground ideal overnight stop before catching Newfoundland FerryBy Harold Merton If you are planning on visiting Newfoundland then unless you y you will no doubt be taking a ferry to the island. If you want to take your RV then the ferry is the answer. Marine Atlantic runs ferries to Newfoundland from more than one location but the one we used and is very popular with today’s RV camp-ers is Arm of Gold Campground in Little bras d’Or, Cape Breton. They are located just 3 miles from the ferry terminal (a 5 minute drive) in North Sydney and have been in existence since 1973. They are at Exit 18 Georges River on 105 Trans Canada Highway. They are billed as pet and motor-cycle friendly, The campground has about 140 sites and also offers free wi-. Many RVers stop here the day be-fore catching the ferry so they can get an early start to the waiting area of the ferry. The park boats a beautiful 1.2 km walking trail that gives a great pan-oramic view of Bras d’or Lake and has several rest areas where you can sit, take in the beauty and if you are lucky watch the eagles shing. There is a playground for the kids, horseshoes, shufeboard, re pit and a unique recreation hall - the Big Barn. Our group used the barn for an introductory meeting before the 19 rigs headed to the ferry and our trip to The Rock. There is also a laundromat, private whirlpools a kitchenette and an exercise room. And there’s an information area where you can pickup literature on local attractions and events. They also have a large 50 foot washing pad in case you want to wash your RV while there. The Alexander Graham Bell Museum is close by and they can offer suggestions for other day trips including the Cabot Trail if you are Entrance to Arm of Gold Campground just three miles from the Marine Atlantic Ferry to Newfoundland.Photos courtesy Arm of Gold Campground.RVs at campsites with a view of beautiful Bras d’Or Lakestaying a couple of days. The 298-kilometre-long Cabot Trail is a winding mix of roadway, paths, stairs and stunning beauty that takes you from unreal ocean vistas to quaint shing villages., passing through the Cape Breton Highlands National Park at its northernmost point. Plan several days to experience the journey of a lifetime along one of the world’s most scenic drives—you’ll need it. Besides full service RV sites they also offer a full set of amenities for tent camping and they have fully Continued on page 84

FCRV annual Campvention continuedCanadian members set out good-ies for their hospitality. At right is Ron Brown of the Tri-County Travellers.Unfortunately heavy rain was an uninvited guest at the Campvention. Here a couple huddle to avoid the elements.Campers line up for one of the popular evening hospitalities put on by various states and provinces.Photos by Claire Gunning.A group of organizing committee members sit un-der a canopy to avid the heavy rain.FCRV National President Gerry Prsch speaks to the crowd. There was plenty to keep the younger campers busy as well. Those 3 to 12 enjoyed hand ower art, building Blue Bird houses, land ski race. stilt walking, water bal-loons, Hawaiian leis. bubbles, a 10’ water slide and watched the pet parade. The annual Camping Is Poster Contest always has a number of great entries. This year the kids draw their impressions of camp-ing and the winners were: Brodee Welcomer PA, 5-6 Graie Long PA, 7-8 91st) Braylae Jurrell PA, (2nd) Jordan Longbery IN , 9-10 (1st) Teagan McGarrah CT, (2nd) Kya Gordon PA11-12 Kennedy Longberry IN The Wildlife committee also had a photo contest and the winners were: (1st) Tom Martin CO, (2nd) Bob Kalberger CT, (3rd) Michael O’Neal IL, and Honourable Mention - Beth Sulek-La Housse. The committee also received eight applications for wildlife grants that represents cash payment of $500 or $1,000 US$. There were plenty of activities for the adults too that started out with a New York trivia contest. Ironically it was won by a Michigan camper Continued on page 28 POKSpring 2025 - Page 27Scope RV Camping Magazine

FCRV annual Campvention continuedThere are always a good number of games and other outdoor activities to keep campers busy at any of the FCRV camping events.Flag bearers are ready for their entrance during Opening Ceremonies at the annual FCRV Campvention held in New York state, the state where the very rst meeting of the organization was held.This trio enjoys a dance during the event.Kids take part in a racing game.Campvention photos by Claire GunningLadies enjoyed an ice cream treat.Faye Swanburg of Ontario speaks during the event.Brian Fuller, (2nd) Matt Mitchell MD, and (3rd) a tie between Dave Hartwig MI and Geff Stringer MI/IN. They also enjoyed movie trivia, card bingo, ladder golf, washer toss and corn hole. The C.A.M.P. people (Campers Actively Moving Program) were also busy with a number of activi-ties. One of the highlights of the Campvention was a kayak trip on the Erie Canal. 31 campers in 28 kayaks headed to lock #18 and dropped 20’ to the lock below.Continued on page 29Page 28 - Spring 2025Scope RV Camping Magazine

FCRV annual Campvention continuedCooks prepare a huge quantity of potatoes for one of the events during Campvention.Campers enjoyed an off-site kayaking tour of the Erie Canal as part of the Campvention activities.A boat tour of the famous Erie Canal in New York state was a popular off-site activity at the annual FCRV Campvention.Lynn Acre of Ontario entertained campers with her Edith Anne ren-dition during evening entertain-ment. Edith Anne was a character creatd by famous comedienne Lilly Tomlin of a little girl sitting in a big chair and expounding her unique views of life. Other campers enjoyed a boat trip on the canal and got to hear it’s his-tory from another perspective. Campers with bicycles headed for the Erie Canal Trail where they biked along the path that the horses towing the barges used to travel while the boats travelled the canal. In all 18 bikes took part along the 29 mile route. A total of 452 miles were travelled by the FCRV bikers. Hospitalities are always a major attraction at any FCRV events and Hospitality Chairman Lynn Acre of Ontario reported that there were seven at this Campvention where campers lined up to enjoy a treat and perhaps a little souvenir of the state or province holding the event. The annual site decorating con-test was won by Onyhl and Linda Austin with Mike and Carol Burns taking second place. The contest was sponsored by Crazyacres Campground in nearby Davenport, New York. The Campvention Poster Con-test saw a great number of entries. Winners were: 9-11 Jaxon Gordon PA, 12-14 Otto McIntosh MI, 15-19 Ian Burns NY, 20+ (1st) Amy Mc-Garrah CT, (2nd) Mike Burns NY, (3rd) Kelly Carey MI and Honour-able Mention to Bryan Shiro PA. The Campvention Parade was again popular and winners were: Trustees Award - CT, Best Rep-resentation of the Past - MI, Most Patriotic - ON, Best representation of the Future - Rhonda and Mike O’Neal, Most Spirited - Teens and Youth, and Best Representation of the Future - Mass.Continued on page 30Spring 2025 - Page 29Scope RV Camping Magazine

FCRV annual Campvention continuedYoungsters enjoy a craft session at Campvention. Building birdhouses was a popular session for the young people at the Campvention.The annual “Camping Is” poster con-test gets entries from all age categories. This one by Braylee Jurrell of PA took the rst place ribbon in the 7-8 year category. Campvention photos by Clair Gunning.Bubbles are always popular with kids especially here.This young camper proudly shows off the birdhouse he built.There were plenty of activities for the youngsters! If you think the youngsters are for-gotten at FCRV’s annual Campven-tion you are wrong! Committee members put a great deal of effort into a multitude of activities for the young campers. They can enjoy a number of out-door activities, games and contests and craft sessions are always very well attended. The annual “Camping Is” poster contest gives the kids a chance to express themselves in their artwork and many times the adults are amazed at how good the entries are. It may not be well known to non-campers but kids who camp with FCRV have a great time and many grow up being regulars at the cam-pouts and return to become mem-ber themselves once they grow up. Organizing committee members are to be congratulated on their efforts and success in making the event at “must go” for the kids!Continued on page 31Page 30 - Spring 2025Scope RV Camping Magazine

FCRV annual Campvention continuedCampers gather for a stage presentation at one of the buildings in the Herkimer County Fairgrounds during FCRV’s annual Campvention held recently. Photos by Clair Gunning.The Continental Fife and Drum band entertained campers at the eventLeisure time allowed FCRV members to meet with friends from other parts of the USA & Canada.Evening entertainment is very popular at Campvention. The annual pet parade saw a total of 15 entries. It had a Hawaiian theme and entries included 10 dogs, 3 cats, a wooden dog and a stuffed parrot. Hmm looks like they need to make the rules a little clearer next year! Shatz, a German Shepherd owned by Kim Paton was named best of show. Nightly entertainment, visiting with old friends and touring local attractions made the event a great one for a lot of FCRV families;. It is indeed nice to see so many young people at the event and it is the hope of many that these young-sters will grow up and continue to come to the annual Campvention with their families. In all it was a great time for those who took the time and travelled to New York to take part in the 65 annual Campvention of the Family Campers and RVers. The 2025 event will be held in Lebanon, Tennessee.Spring 2025 - Page 31Scope RV Camping Magazine

Scope RV Camping MagazinePage 32 - Spring 2025Page 38 - Spring 2024 Scope RV Camping Magazine General RV, the United State’s largest family-owned RV dealer-ship network has a new RV cook-ing show that is available free on the internet. Chef RV is a series that readers may nd of great interest.The rst episode visits Ladder 4 Wine Bar in Detroit Michigan and host Carlos Parisi visits with Ladder 4 head chef John Yelinek. They show how to cook up a tasty omelette dish that is perfect for breakfast, lunch or even dinner. Check it out at:https://www.generalrv.com/campaigns/chefrv?utm_source=IDS&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=ChefRV#chef-videoGeneral RV begins new “Chef RV” cooking series available free of charge on the internetChef RV host Carlos Parisi, left, is shown with John Yelinek head chef at Ladder 4 Wine Bar in Detroit, Michigan in the rst episode of a new RV cooking series from General RV, a US dealership organization.WINNEBAGO’S SUNSET CLASS A MOTOR HOMESRV LUXURY AT IT’S BEST!IN STOCK!

FCRV 53rd International Retiree Rally planned Spring has sprung and the 53rd FCRV International Retiree Rally will be held a the National Peanut Festival Fairground in Dothan, Alabama from March 24 to March 30, 2025. Early Bird Days are March 21, 22 & 23. and the cost for two people in a unit is $330 U.S. Funds One person in unit = $300 U.S. funds Early bird days cost $40 U.S. funds. The registration deadline is March 1, 2025. Late registrations pay an extra $35 U.S. Included in the fees are full hook-ups, (30/50 amp services) a Ice Cream Social, two dinners, live entertainment, sports, crafts, and a lot of fun. Registrants should make checks payable to FCRV/NCHA Retiree Rally. (U.S. Bank accounts only) Unfortunaely there are no credit cards accepted. Mail payment to Mildred Pauwels, P.O. Box 193, Dana, N.C. 28724 The theme is “Spring Has Sprung,” and coordinators Steve and Diane Hitchens, are preparing many fun events for all to enjoy. You won’t want to miss this event. So put a “spring” in your step and “Leap” on over to Dothan for a Rally good time. Remember you do not have to be retired to come to the Rally, you just have to be ready to have a good time!Location:National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds5622 Hwy 231 SouthDothan, Alabama, 36301Scope RV Camping Mazgazine Spring 2025 - Page 33ADVERTISING IS OUR BREAD AND BUTTER!PLEASE TELL OUR ADVERTISERS THAT YOU SAW THEIR MESSAGE IN SCOPE!FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE FAMILY CAMPERS AND RVERS PLEASE SEE THEIR AD ON PAGE 50Scope RV Camping Magazine Summer 2024 - Page 73 Fantasy RV Tours is conducting a special 50 day Route 66 trip for RVers that will cover the entire route from “Chicago to LA” as the song goes. There will be 49 nights of camping with 167 events and meals on the trip that runs from September 19 to November 7, 2025. They will cruise through seven states as they eat at classic diners, see muscle cars, visit quirky road-side attractions, visit National and State Route 66 museums. a Route 66 interpretive centre, a Route 66 Mother Road Festival, the St. Louis Gateway Arch tram ride, visit Cadil-Fantasy RV Tours is conducting a 50 day Route 66 tour for FMCA lac Ranch and the Big Texan Steak-house, and the Abraham Lincoln Home National Site. The entire tour is 2,227 miles with average travel miles at about 139 per day. Cities along the route include: Chicago, Pontiac, Springeld, St. Louis, Joplin, Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Elk City, Amarillo, Tucumcari, Santa Fe, Albuqueque, Gallup, Hol-brook,. Flagstaff, Kingman, Barstow and Pasadena. The cost for two on the trip is $14,795 U.S. This looks like a fantastic tour for not only Route 66 buffs but also for The RV tour will stop at many of the Route 66 attractions along the way.A tour of Route 66 exclusively for FMCA members is being offered by Fantasy RV Tours in 2025.classic car enthusiasts who will no doubt get huge exposure to the classics of the Route 66 days. The tour company is well known and has a great reputation for RV tours throughout North Amer-ica. They have literally dozens of choices available on their website and they offer a payment plan.Fantasy RV Tours7250 Peak Drive. Suite 108Las Vegas NV 89128www.fantasyrvtours.com

days until you reach the nal destination which is Gros Morne Mountain’s James Callaghan Trail. Remember that this is a back-country trail and therefore there are no trail markings, so topographical map reading and compass skills are essential for navigation. Alter-natively, there are tour operators in Gros Morne National Park that of-fer guided hiking tours of the Long Range Traverse, including Gros Morne Adventures. While this hike is certainly chal-lenging, it has also been named by National Geographic as one of the World’s Best Hikes, and for good reason. For more information on the Long Range Traverse hike, Trailpeak, a Canadian trails website, offers Gros Morne’s Western Brook Pond continueda great summary of what you can expect here. Parks Canada also offers alternative route options and a backcountry hiking map. One of the most difcult decisions you’ll have when you reach West-ern Brook Pond is how you wish to experience it. One thing is for certain, once you’ve experienced Western Brook Pond, you won’t soon forget it as it is one of New-foundland’s greatest adventures! BonTours is a family-owned business in Norris Point, New-foundland. They operate the boat tour on Western Brook Pond and on Bonne Bay. as well as hikes in Gros Morne National Park. Rates for the boat tour are $79 for adults and $49 for youth and children. They now offer golf cart transporta-tion for those with walking difcul-ties who otherwise would not be able to make the 45 minute hike. Wonderful! The cart can carry 7 passengers and thee are physi-cal requirements . The cost is $10 return payable to the cart driver at the parking lot in cash only. They operate mid-May to mid-Oc-tober and reservations are suggest-ed. It appears there are about three tours each day. It is a great way to see and enjoy the majesty of one of the world’s great natural attractions!Telephone 709 458 2016https://bontours.cainfo@bontours.caScope RV Camping MazgazinePage 34 - Spring 2025Boat tours a great way to see Western Brook PondPassengers on the boat tour of Western Brook Pond take in the beau-tiful scenery of this magnicent Newfoundland attraction. Newfoundland and Labrador Travel photos.A boat tour heads out to show visitors the fabulous Western Brook Pond, one of Newfoundland’s major natural attractions.By Harold Merton One of the highlights of any trip to Newfoundland should be a visit to the fabulous Western Brook Pond a 16 km fjord that is 165 meters deep. It is home to an assortment of sh and birds, Fortunately there is a fantastic boat tour that will take you through the pond and gorge area. When we visited there was a three km hike from the parking lot to the boat dock but I see that they now offer golf cart rides for the handicapped and those who might otherwise not be able to make the long hike. Actually I really wondered how they got around the Disability Acts without transportation to the boat dock. The fjord is part of Gros Morne National Park, glacier carved mil-lions of years ago and featuring a 2,000 foot waterfall where the water quite often turns into mist before it even reaches the lake. Make this a must if you are plan-ning a Newfoundland trip. Search the Parks Canada website for more information.www.parkscanada.ca

By Harold Merton Members of the Sarnia 4Ts chap-ter of FCRV gathered recently for their annual Thanksgiving campout at the Attawandaron Scout Camp near Grand Bend, Ontario. The chapter has a unique rela-tionship with the Scout Camp and has built themselves a special camping area in the woods a short walk from one of the camp’s build-ings Beaver Hall. 4Ts members and their friends camp at the site several times a year and while there assist with cleanup and maintenance duties especially after severe storms. They regularly cut and stack rewood to be used at the camp and charge each of their members a nightly camping fee that they hold and then use to buy something special for the camp that they need and is not in their budget. The funds have gone towards things like saws and wood chippers and the club donates cash to assist in their Scout camp projects. They were one of a handful of sponsors who donated thousands of dollars to help build new bunk-houses for the Scouts including some with handicap facilities. They also recently donated cash that helped in renovations of Beaver Hall as well as towards games for another building in the camp. So again this past Thanksgiving weekend a number of 4Ts member and their friends including Regional 7 Reps Faye and Terry Swanburg and Michigan friends Rocky and Don Lumley gathered for the tradi-tional feast. Some members bring their entire family and campers were thrilled to see the latest member of the Douglas family, little two-month old Thomas Lorne McDonough the son of Megan Douglas who is the daughter of Mabel Douglas and the late Lorne Douglas long-time members of the group. Megan became rst known to Scope readers several yeas ago when she was featured during a hair cutting donation at one of the OPA campouts. Megan and her mother both do-nated their locks to the cause that makes wigs for cancer patients. Megan and her partner Thomas McDonough had their little one dressed up in a little turkey outt and he was the hit of the event! He got passed around more than the only hymn book at an impromptu 4Ts FCRV chapter enjoyed Thanksgiving campoutchurch service. At supper time members and their guests gathered in Beaver Hall for their Thanksgiving feast. The Petrolia Lion Club annu-ally prepares the turkey, dressing and mashed potatoes while those attending bring all the xings and desert. Everyone came away with full tum-mies. It is a great weekend and mem-bers and their special guests look forward to this annual event.Foreground table is the Douglas family contingent at the 4Ts annual Thanksgiving campout. Scope photos by Harold Merton4Ts members and special friends enjoy the great food at their dinner.Thomas Lorne McDonough was the newest member of the Doug-las family in attendance. He is the little two-month old son of Megan Douglas and Thomas Mc-Donough. Photo by Thomas Mc-Donough.Scope RV Camping Mazgazine Spring 2025 - Page 35

Why I probably will not buy an electric vehicleBy Harold Merton News reports state that Cana-dians are reluctant to purchase electric vehicles and it is doubtful that Canada will reach it’s goal for electric vehicles by the proposed deadline date. There are many reasons that Ca-nadians do not buy electric vehicles now. One of those is the increased initial cost. Government incentives are no lon-ger attractive so that tells me even the government is not actually sold on the idea. To me there are several reasons that when I bought a new truck last year I did not even consider electric. The biggest problem to me is retained value. If I pay X amount of dollars for an electric vehicle I expect to retain some value over the years I own it. Yes I am aware of depreciation etc. but to me it seems like electric vehicles are not a good investment at all. The big problem is battery re-placement. We all know that it cost $20,000 to $30,000 to replace the batteries in an electric vehicle. With the threat of an expenditure like that looming over one’s head I would not feel comfortable a year or two after I had purchased the vehicle. I also think that potential buyers of that vehicle when used are going to consider that they might be in a position of having to pay that huge sum to replace the batteries and thus will only be willing to pay a pit-tance for the vehicle. Yes there are lots of pluses for one to consider but we are still a long way off in having enough charging stations for these vehicles and what a lot of people do not know is there is a hefty charge to top up your batteries if you use them --- it is not free! Ads for electric vehicles give potential travel distances on a “full charge” but what a lot of people do not know is reaching a full charge is difcult. Getting up to about a three-quarters charge is easy but that last little bit take a lot more time. I can see trying to sell an electric vehicle two or three years after purchase and having a very difcult time getting a fair price. If I was considering purchase of a used vehicle and I knew there might be a $20,000 or $30,000 bill on the horizon I don’t think I would be will-ing to pay very much for it. So if you are buying an electric vehicle you must be resigned to keeping it for a long time and in do-ing that you are creeping closer and closer to a huge battery replace-ment charge. Perhaps leasing might be the answer with an electric vehicle because you know it will be off your hands in a specic amount of time but my bet is the leasing companies are going to take the possibility of battery replacement into consider-ation when they set the lease rates. In my opinion we are still a few years off where electric vehicles will be both practical and a worthwhile investment. I may be wrong but we’ll see!Page 36 - Spring 2025 Scope RV Camping Magazine

Canadians at FCRV campventionHere’s the group of Canadian members of the Family Campers and RVers who ventured to organization’s the annual International Campvention held in Herkimer, New York. Photos courtesy of Lynn Acre.Canadian members were ready for their hospitality with the traditional Canada Dry Gingerale and the sought after Canadian maple cookies.Faye Swanburg proudly holds up her maple leaf during one of the group gatherings. About twenty Canadian members of FCRV ventured to Herkimer in New York state for the organiza-tion’s annual Campvention. Canadian members take part in a great many of the events and regularly hold a special Canadian hospitality that is very popular with Campvention attendees. Their hospitality guests line up for a treat of the traditional Canadian Maple Cookies and a drink of the long famous Canada Dry Gin-gerale. The Canadian contingent also took part in the annual parade as well as many of the other activities at the multi-day event. The FCRV Campvention rotates through the seven North American districts of FCRV and is hosted in Canada once every seven years. The majority of Canadian mem-bers of the organization reside in Ontario and enjoy a number of regional and local camping events as well. The Canadians are also featured in Campvention coverage elsewhere in this issue. Continued on page 38Spring 2025 - Page 37Scope RV Camping Magazine

Canadians at FCRV annual Campvention continuedJack Smye, lft, and Lew Acre, right, lead the Canadians with their pa-rade entry. Photos by Lynn Acre.Here’s an interesting entry in the Campvention parade. T shirts strung along a pole made up a very interesting display. The talent show saw a number of both talented and unique entries.Dale Cull, left, and Lew Acre, right, continued their Campven-tion tradition of dancing together.By Harold Merton Members of FCRV have a lot of fun at all the camping events they at-tend. One of the highlights is the annual Campventon held somewhere in North America every summer. This year the location was New York state, the state where the or-ganization was originally founded as the National Campers and Hikers Association by Hank Nathan, a New York camper. Campers from across North Amer-ica gathered in Herkimer, New York for the multi-day camping event. Of course Canadian members of the association were among those in attendance and active FCRV spark plug Lynn Acre supplied Scope with a number of photographs of the Canadians enjoying activities. Visiting state hospitalities, taking part in the talent show, participat-ing in the annual Campvention pa-rade and just enjoying the company of dozens of camping friends from across North Ameriica is what all FCRV membersdo. The Candian hospitality is always popular as campers come to enjoy the Maple Cookies and Canada Dry Gingerale. They had fun as usual!Page 38 - Sping 2025Scope RV Camping Magazine

The high cost of RVs in CanadaBy Harold Merton One of the major factors in orga-nizations like the Family Campers and RVers gaining new members is the extremely high cost of RVs in Canada. When I began RVing in the early 1960s you could buy a new trailer for just a few thousand dollars. The sales tax in those days was a modest 3% nicknamed the “Frost Bite” because it was implemented by Ontario Premier Leslie Frost’s government. As I moved up into Winnebago motor homes from my good friend Bill Braden at Sun n Fun it cost less than $20,000 for a new 27 footer. Buyers today are faced with huge prices that approach and surpass the $100,000 or more mark. When I purchased my last new motorhome from Henry at Airport RV around 2005 it had a list price of over $100,000 at that time. I know things are going up but have RVs increased substantially over the normal rate of ination? New camping families just cannot justify $100,000 or more for an RV and so those entering the market are not primarily young families but rather retired couples with a lot more disposable income. Readers may remember a few years ago when I picked a Plea-sure Way motor home as the best RV at the London RV show. It was exhibited at the Can-Am RV display and sold for just a little over the $100,000 mark. I tried to buy one from Kirk Thom-son at Can-Am but they just could not get units as the factory could not keep up with orders. The problem for Canadian camp-ers (but not for the company itself) was the value of the Canadian dollar. Canadian manufacturers found that if they sold their product to the USA market they got paid in US$ and they were worth a lot more than Canadian dollars. Just a month ago I paid $1.44 Ca-nadian for a US$ to pay a member-ship in a US RV organization. One of the largest Canadian RV manufacturers Home and Park sold the majority of their production to dealers in the USA. Now I just recently received a notice on my computer about the new Pleasure Way RVs (built in Western Canada). The unit I still like and was on my bucket list is now listed for $217,775 US$ At just $1.41 that works out to over $300,000.00 Ca-nadian and don’t forget the HST on that is another $39,000 Canadian. I really do not know what the answer is but I do know that we are pricing ourselves right out of the RV market! I guess I can take that Pleasure Way off my bucket list too!This new Pleasure Way Class C motorhome is listed on the Pleasure Way website at $217,775 US dollars. That’s over $300,000 Can. $ The results of a survey among members of the Ontario Provincial Association of the Family Camp-ers and RVers has been released. On the question of how long one has been camping only 15% indicated 1 to 5 years, while 21% indicated 6 to 10 years and 30% selected 21 years over.POP CAN /TAB COLLECTION RESULTS Wayne Rosenburger reported that the proceeds from 146 lbs of pop cans, including 362 beer cans netted the group $206.95 The current amount raised recent-ly is now $1,544.35. Members of OPA voted to rst double this amount as a contribu-tion to Ronald McDonald House but then later voted to up the amount to an even $4,000 which they will donate to the charity. The group also donated $327.00 to the Petrolia Food Bank, which represented proceeds from the OPA fall campout church collection and activities. A new slate of ofcers for the Ontario Provincial Association of FCRV were installed recently. They are: Lew & Lynn Acre - Presidents, Michael & Ruth Tazier - Vice Presidents, Dave Skilling - Treasurer, Jack Smye - Record-ing Secretary and Darlene Wiltsie - Corresponding Secretary.News from the Ontario Provincial Association of the Family Campers and RVersCAMPING SURVEY RESULTS RELEASEDNEW SLATE OF OFFICERS ELECTED FOR OPASpring 2025 - Page 39Scope RV Camping Magazine

Through the 2024 season, visitors have been fortu-nate to experience some spectacular whale watching around Newfoundland and Labrador. Whether by boat tour, kayak, or hiking along a coastal trail, seeing these natural wonders pass by the shores never gets old. Whale watchers are likely to see ns and water-spouts, and if they’re lucky, a full breach as these nautical giants frolic and play from May to September. Here is a compilation of some favourite whale mo-ments of the year!Every Shade of Blue Sometimes it’s as if these majestic creatures can’t quite decide if they want to swim in the deep blue or y with the picture-perfect clouds in the sky! When both are this pretty, who can blame them? Megan Wiggins captured this moment back in August while on a tour with Sea of Whales in Trinity Bay.Time for a Feed In recent years, St. Vincent’s Beach has become a popular spot for whale watching from ashore. With a substantial drop-off just a few meters from shore, whales chase schools of capelin and herring in toward the beach and feed to their heart’s content. This fan-tastic shot from Kosta Kokkinos shows two humpbacks chowing down together. Whale watchers have been known to rest on the rocky beach with their own picnics, Newfoundland whales are fantastic!Megan Williams shot this one on a tour with Sea of Whales in Trinity Bay.Kosta Kokkinos shot of Blue Whale in Bonavista.Leona Lockwood captued this pod of Orcas from a zodiak boat on a Trinity Economy Tour.This humpback put on quite a show for customers of Discovery Sea Adventures in Bonavista.Photos courtesy Newfoundland and Labrador TravelVisitors aboard a Sea of Whales tour out of Trinity caught this performance of two blue whales. Continued on page 41Page 40 - Spring 2025 Scope RV Camping Magazine

hoping to dine some new friends from the sea. Big, Blue, and Beautiful Visitors aboard a tour with Sea of Whales near Trinity got quite the surprise by catching a glimpse of not one, but two blue whales swimming together. The blue whale is most notably the largest mammal on the planet, and typically quite elusive. Blue Whales “What an amazing day today! One that we will never forget! We saw two enormous blue whales, a minke whale and pufns! So grateful to have had this experi-ence! “#whales #whalewatching #trinitynl #bonavista #bonavistapeninsula #ExploreCanada #ExploreNL #whalesnl #bluewhale #bestkind #geotourism@seaofwhalesnlDouble the Fin, Double the Fun! Footage from Gatherall’s Boat Tour shows these two leisurely swimmers taking a break from their hard day’s work. They drift side-by-side in formation like synchronized swimmers. It might not be a high energy performance, but we’d still give this sighting a solid 10!Not Your Typical Pod-Cast Trinity EcoTours had a few visitors keeping pace with their zodiac boat on this trip back in May as Leona Rockwood captured this rare treat. It was incredible to see this pod of orcas swimming alongside each other and playing in the wake!A Friendly Hello! This playful pectoral n slapping looks just like a friendly wave from a neighbour. Guests aboard Ice-berg Quest’s tour got quite the show from this hump-back just outside of St. John’s harbour.The More, the Merrier! While it’s common to see humpbacks and the oc-casional orca swimming near our shores, they also get visited by dolphins! An Atlantic white beak dolphin had no issue photo bombing a friendly humpback saying hello to the cameras, taking its own opportunity to shine in the spotlight. A fantastic capture courtesy of Northland Discovery Tours in St. Lunaire-Griquet. Newfoundland whales are fantastic continuedThis Atlantic White Beak Dolphin photo bombed a Humpback for the photographer who was aboard Northland Discovery Tours of St. Lunaire-Griquet. Here are the websites of the tours featured in our story. You will be able to get a lot more information including prices by visiting their websites.seaofwhales.comdiscovernorthland.comgatheralls.comtrinityecotours.comicebergquest.comdsatours.comWhale watching tour operatorsBreaching Humpback This incredible shot was shared by Discovery Sea Adventures out of Bonavista. This humpback put on quite the show as it performed an incredible breach for onlookers. Whale watching will be a highlight of any tour to New-foundland and Labrador.Spring 2025 - Page 41Scope RV Camping MagazineThe sea and shing is a big part of Newfoundland & Labrador You’ll see a lot of shing villages if you travel to Newfoundland and Labrador. The sea is an important part of their lives. They have been shing for centuries and many of the scenes are very unique and colourful. Be sure to explore this part of such a unique area of Canada.Photo courtesy Newfoundland and Labrador Travel

The 77th Annual Toronto Sports-men’s Show has announced that they will have The Ontario Hunting Retrievers Association and their four-legged friends return to the Toronto Sportsmen’s Show on March 13 – 16, 2025, at the Interna-tional Centre. The Ontario Hunting Retrievers Association (OHRA) is a group of hunting retriever enthusiasts that have come together to showcase the abilities of their hunting dogs. The OHRA will demonstrate train-ing methods and introduce tips and tactics to help hunters train their dogs for more success in the eld. At the 2025 Toronto Sportsmen’s Show The Ontario Hunting Re-trievers Association will be hosting demonstrations throughout the weekend. During these demonstra-tions, they will be showcasing the dog’s natural and trained retrieving abilities that are sought after in a quality hunting retriever. Dogs will range from young & inexperienced to top level competitors. At the end of the demonstrations some lucky future handlers from the crowd will get an opportunity to try their skills at handling these high energy dogs. After the demos, the handlers will be available for showgoers to meet the dogs, and ask their experienced handlers training questions. For complete show details, visit www.torontosportshow.ca or nd the show on Facebook and Insta-gram. EVENT INFORMATION:Hours:Thursday, March 1310:00am - 7:00pmFriday, March 1410:00am - 7:00pmSaturday, March 159:00am - 7:00pmSunday, March 1610:00am – 5:00pmLocation:International Centre6900 Airport RoadMississauga, ONL4V 1E81-800-567-1199Mike BlakoeShow ManagerHunting Retriever Dogs back at Toronto Sportsmen’s Show March 13 to 16mblakoe@mpltd.caPhone 416-420-1800The popular Hunting Retriever dogs will again be at this year’s Toronto Sportsmen’s Show.The Ontario Hunting Retrievers Association will again be bringing their talented dogs to demonstrate at this year’s Toronto Sportsmen’s show. Photos courtesy Toronto Sportsmen’s Show.Page 42 - Spring 2025 Scope RV Camping MagazineOPA Spring Campout planned for Chesley, Ontario area The Ontario Provincial Associa-tion of the Family Campers and RVers will hold their Spring Cam-pout at Cedar Rail Family Camp-ground in Chesley, Ontario which is about 40 minutes north of Hamilton, Ontario. Campers are to make their own reservations with the campground. This year there is a change in time with it not being on the Holiday weekend. It will be held Monday May 26th to Friday May 30th. Planned activities include visits to the Bruce Nuclear Plant, Mill Creek Chocolate Factory and Keady Farmers Market that boats 250 vendors. Camping is $53 a night but there is no campout activity fee. Campers are to make their reser-vations with the campground then go to the OPA website at opafcrv.ca to register.www.cedarrailcamp.com Campground (519) 363-3387

FMCA’s International Rally March 12 to 15 FMCA’s 110th International Con-vention & RV Expo is coming up March 12-15, 2025, at the Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agri-center in Perry, Georgia. If you are a full-time RVing fam-ily with kids, or grandparents who enjoy taking the grandkids on travel adventures, we invite you to join us for the “Return to Perry: Latte’s Lost Treasure” convention. Reg-ister for the convention online or by phone (at 800) 543-3622. Then, sign your kids up for the Youth and Family Activities Pro-gram by clicking https://join.fmca.com/ga25youthactivities. FMCA’s Youth and Family Activi-ties Committee will have activities to involve young attendees and their parents or grandparents and promote “family” at our international conventions. The goals: fun for all generations and the chance to make new friends. For more information about the program or to get involved, contact Youth and Family Activities Com-mittee chairperson Charlsanne Miskell at fmcayouth@gmail.com. The theme of Spirit of Friend-ship will headline the 2025 Interna-tional Campvention of the Family Campers and RVers to be held in Lebanon, Tennessee from July 20 to 26, 2025 It will be held at the James E. Ward Agricultural Center 945 E Baddour Pkwy, Lebanon, Tennes-see This Campvention will be close to Nashville so campers are advised to come early to enjoy some of the highlights of the music city. Registration for one family in unitat the gate is $350. Early bird days are July 18-19, 2025 at $30/night to be paid by cash or U.S. check upon arrival. The registration deadline is May 15, 2025 but if you pay before December 31, 2024 you will receive a $25 discount. Further information is available on the FCRV website at www.fcrv.orgFamily Campers and RVers 2025 International Campvention to be held in Tennessee July 20 to 26Background on FCRV’s annual Campvention Every summer, FCRV members gather for a week-long rally called Campvention. The site of the event rotates between the seven regions of the organization across the United States and Canada. The week is jam-packed with fun activi-ties planned for youth, teens, and adults, as well as seminars, evening entertainment, commercial ven-dors, and the organization’s annual meeting. Most importantly, mem-bers enjoy the great outdoors and one another – it’s an event where strangers become friends, and friends become family. Join us!Spring 2025 - Page 43Scope RV Camping MagazineNew members welcomed by FCRV chapters The Family Campers and RVers association welcomes new mem-bers to any of the scores of chap-ters in Canada and the U.S.A. For further information please see their advertisement on page 50 of this issue. There are many chapters in On-tario who would be happy to have new members so contact them and join in the fun. A they say “Come Camp With Us!”www.fcrv.orgwww.opafcrv.ca

Serious accident with trailer hitch injures camper Dale Cull of Tri-County TravellersBy Harold Merton While he may not like to think about it, a recent accident with a trailer hitch could very well have been fatal for active camper Dale Cull of the Tri-County Travellers. While disconnecting a Blue Ox hitch that was installed on a newly purchased travel trailer, the heavy wench that one uses to relieve the tension on the bars ew off hitting Dale in the face. The impact caused severe facial damage and the loss of several front teeth and Dale and his wife Angela had to spend hours in a lo-cal hospital emergency room. The Culls had just recently pur-chased the previously-owned travel trailer from. Hitch n’ Go of Delhi, Ontario. The dealership has conrmed that they installed the hitch and gave instructions to the purchaser. They actually video their pre-delivery instructions to the customer so they were able to go back and see exactly how the instructions were carried out. They were certain that hey had provided full and easy to under-stand instructions on how to hitch and unhitch his new trailer. Other hitch installers we contacted mentioned that there is a great deal of pressure on a hitch connection of this type and one must be very careful to follow instructions exactly when using it. Dale recovered enough from that incident to attend the FCRV Nation-al Campvention in New York state and then to the Fall OPA campout in Brigden, Ontario where he made us aware of his accident. . In a jovial manner he joked about how he t in just perfectly in the hill-billy themed campout with a number of his front teeth missing. When we made pictures of the hitch for this story we noticed that there was part of a warning sticker showing on the tongue of the trailer but it had been partly covered up with the installation of the rack for the propane bottles. This is complicated because there is very little in the way of an adjust-ed position for either the hitch part or the rack for the propane bottles on the trailer tongue. Space is very limited there. We did extensive research on this contacting the selling dealer and the This photo shows the heavy wrench in position on the Blue Ox hitch. The wrench ew off as the owner leaned over to take the pressure off the bars. hitch manufacturer themselves. We are now certain that the ac-cident was simply a case of Mr. Cull forgetting one important step in the instructions given to him by the selling dealer which meant that there was a tremendous amount of pressure on the wrench and that is why it came off causing the damage it did. Unfortunately Dale will need a bit of time to recover but we are certain it will not happen to him again. We consulted with both the selling dealer Hitch n’ Go of Delhi, Ontario and with Blue Ox headquarters in Pender, Nebraska. The head ofce provided the fol-lowing statement: “We are deeply concerned to hear of this incident, as customer safety is our top priority. At Blue Dale Cull’s missing teeth can be easily seen in this picture of him eating corn at the Fall OPA Hill-billy Campout. Scope photos by Harold Merton.While releasing the pressure on the bars of this Blue Ox hitch camper Dale Cull of Ontario suf-fered serous facial injuries be-cause the heavy wrench in his hand in the picture ew off hitting him in the face.Page 44 - Spring 2025 Scope RV Camping MagazineContinued on page 92

Hobbitstee Wildlife Refuge helping injured creatures Hobbitstee Wildlife Refuge was founded in 2007 by Chantal Theijn. it began because of a very specic need. After going through the permit process Chantal wrote on the initial application that she hoped to rehabilitate approximately 30 wild animals a year. Since that time Hobbitstee has grown into a facility where annually upwards of 3,500 wild animals nd help. The facility is uniquely situated on 47 acres of forest and Provincially Signicant Wetland within the Long Point Region Watershed, and the Nanticoke-Sandusk-Stoney Creek Subwatershed. 700 metres north of the Northeast Lake Erie Shore-line. Hobbitstee Wildlife Refuge is situated on the ancestral lands of the Mississaugas of the Credit. The 47 acres is a recent purchase and construction is underway for a brand new wildlife hospital. Volunteers are still very busy constructing outdoor wildlife enclo-sures as well as a massive effort in underway to restore and enhance the wetlands on the property. Unfortunately the wetlands have been negatively impacted by agri-cultural practices. Hobbitstee is an incorporated registered charity with a board of directors. The day-to-day running of Hob-bitstee still falls on the shoulder of Chantal who manages the groups of volunteers and takes care of the wildlife while doing most of the paperwork involved with running an organization of this type. Hobbitstee’s main focus is wildlife rehabilitation, but this is combined with wildlife education, mitigation and research. It also has a focus on working with at-risk-youth, young offenders and low-risk adult offend-ers. As such they partner with Child and Youth Services and The John Howard Society. One of their goals according to Chantal “is with every passing year to move the level of care we provide for the sick, injured and orphaned wildlife in care, so that is the focus!” They have an outreach program where they go to events to educate the public with wildlife “do’s and dont’s” but never take wildlife with them. There are no paid staff, it is run enirely by volunteers. In the sixteen years of operation it has never pro-vided Chantal with a salary. “From humble beginnings of caring for 30 animals a year in the basement of Entrance to the new hospital.Nearing completion, the new animal hospital will allow Chantal and her staff to adequately care for many more injured creatures in the area. Photos courtesy Hobbitstee.A local bald eagle is currently in the care of the volunteers.Continued on page 46Spring 2025 - Page 45Scope RV Camping Magazine

Hobbitstee Animal Rescue continuedtheir home to caring for 3,500 ani-mals a year - wildlife rehabilitation was not really a career decision. It is a labour of love” that in fact has cost Chantal and her family per-sonal money. They have cared for a diverse number of animals this past year and mange has been especially bad. Chantal believes it is due to the milder weather. This disease affects the animal’s ability to stay warm, hunt and survive. I can also affect sight and hearing. They are currently caring for foxes, coyotes, bats, turtles, and birds of prey including a local bald eagle. The need is constant and they are quite often at full capacity. They do need volunteers to help with maintenance and driving the creatures to specic appointments. Research is also a part of their mandate. They are committed through data collection, to provide the need to put in place measures to help prevent road mortality and the importance of habitat protection and restoration. Funds are desperately needed to carry on this great work and read-ers are invited to make a donation An interior room in the new animal hospital at HobbitsteeNew technology will make diag-nosis much easier and qauicker.A young deer is one of many ani-mals cared for at the animal res-cue facility in Haldimand County.An aerial view of the Hobbitstee property near Nanticoke, Ontario.to assist in their work. They may be contacted through the website at the conclusion of this story. Through the efforts of Faye and Terry Swanburg of FCRV, an ap-plication is being made to the FCRV National Association for a wildlife grant to assist Hobbitstee in their work. This kind of dedication needs to be rewarded with support!Hobbitstee107 Brooklin road, NanticokeOntario, CanadaN0A 1L0519-587-2980www.hobbitstee.comPage 46 - Spring 2025Scope RV Camping Magazine

Quick ‘n’ Easy Slow CookerThis orange-glazed chicken comes together beautifully using ingredients that are easy and affordable to keep on hand. Using a slow cooker means that it can be put together in just minutes in the morning and ready to serve right when you get home from work. Just add a side of rice and steamed vegetables for a nutritious meal your family will ask for again and again! Serves: 4Prep Time: 10 minCook Time: 2 hours 5 minIngredientsImperial/Metric4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts2 tbsp vegetable shortening or2 tbsp butter¼ cup all-purpose our1can condensed cream of chicken soup½ tsp seasoned salt This Tex-Mex inspired dish is per-fect for a quick weeknight dinner. Mix and match with your favourite toppings and assemble around the dinner table for a fun, interactive meal!Serves: 4Prep Time: 20 minCook Time: 40 minIngredientsImperial/Metric1 red pepper, cut into 1/2-inch (1 cm) thick slices1 orange pepper, cut into 1/2-inch (1 cm) thick slices1 red onion, cut into 1/2-inch (1 cm) thick slices3 tbsp vegetable oil2 tbsp chili powder½ tsp salt¼ tsp pepper1 lb chicken breasts, cut into strips12 corn tortillas (6-inch/15 cm), warmed1 cup guacamole½ cup cilantro leaves1 cilantro leavesAir Fryer Chicken Fajitas Food Safety Before you start, wash all surfaces and your hands with soap and warm water, and remember to wash your hands, utensils and cutting boards after they touch raw meat or eggs. Avoid cross-contamination by using a different cutting board for your meat and other ingredi-ents. Make sure you’re cooking to safe temperatures and chilling any leftovers within two hours. GOOD CHICKENAmazing Orange ChickenRecipe courtesy of Alberta Chicken ProducersHere’s a delightful lunch idea if your gang enjoys Tex-Mex.Mix and match fajitas with your favourite toppings. Recipes and pictures courtesy Chicken Farmers of Canada.Here’s a little different way to enjoy Orange Chicken. Continued on page 48Continued on page 48Spring 2025 - Page 47Scope RV Camping Magazine

ORANGE CHICKEN CONTINUEDSteps Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). In large bowl, combine red and orange bell peppers, red onion, vegetable oil, chili powder, salt and pepper until well coated; add chicken, stirring to coat well. In batches, arrange chicken CHICKEN FAJITAS CONTINUED¼ tsp pepper¼ tsp salt½ cup chicken broth2 tsp brown sugar1/3 cup frozen orange juice concentrate, thawedFood Safety Before you start, wash all surfaces and your hands with soap and warm water, and remember to wash your hands, utensils and cutting boards after they touch raw meat or eggs. Avoid cross-contamination by using a different cutting board for your meat and other ingredi-ents. Make sure you’re cooking to safe temperatures and chilling any leftovers within two hours. Chicken and Food Safety: An Easy Guide Bacteria are everywhere, and while most are harmless or even benecial to humans, others can make you sick.Chicken recipes continuedSteps Heat the shortening in a skillet over medium-high heat.In a bowl, mix the our, condensed soup, seasoned salt, pepper, and salt. Dip chicken in the mixture to coat, and fry in a heated skillet until golden brown. Place chicken in a slow cooker. Mix the chicken broth, brown sugar, and orange juice concentrate in a bowl, and pour over the chicken in the slow cooker. Cover, and cook 2 to 3 hours on low or 1 to 2 hours on High.Page 48 - Spring 2025Scope RV Camping Magazinemixture in air fryer tray; cook for 15 to 18 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender. Serve chicken mixture with warmed tortillas, guacamole, cilan-tro and lime wedges.Helpful Tip Some air fryer models do not require preheating. Check manufac-turer’s instructions for proper use. Alternatively, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake chicken and vegetables on baking sheet in single layer for 18 to 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until vegetables are ten-der-crisp, chicken is golden brown and internal temperature of chicken registers 165°F (74°C) on instant-read thermometer. The unique culture of Newfound-land and Labrador is a product of their English, Irish, French, and Indigenous heritage. This province’s history is rich with stories and leg-ends, explorers, and inventors. For thousands of years, Indig-enous groups such as the Maritime Archaic Indians and the Palaeo-Eskimo hunted, shed, and settled in the province, mostly in the south-ern Labrador area. Vikings visited there at the begin-ning of the last millennium, but European visitation didn’t begin in earnest until John Cabot’s voyage in 1497. They shed the rich waters off the coast – rst during annual visits, and then creating French and English colonies in the province. The English colony included St. John’s – one of the oldest cities in North America; its streets and archi-tecture might be the best expres-sion you’ll see of the creative spirit that founded the province. Newfoundland and Labrador remained under British rule until joining Canada in 1949. In the 21st century, the province is benetting from offshore oil produc-tion, creating a new bond with the ocean that has sustained it for so long.Unique culture of Newfoundland and LabradorThe uniquely named Jelly Bean houses in St. John’s. AS COOKING IS SUCH AN INTEGRAL PART OF CAMPING YOU WILL FIND MANY MORE RECIPES THROUGHOUT THIS ISSUE

This re-imagining of classic lay-ered nacho dip is even better than the original, thanks to the addition of protein and bre-rich ingredients. And with only 210 calories per serv-ing it’s also a lightened up version of the restaurant classic. Serves: 10Prep Time: 15 minCook Time: 30 minIngredientsImperial/Metric1 tsp extra virgin olive oil4 cloves garlic, minced1 lb extra lean ground chicken2 tsp cumin1 tbsp chili powder1 tsp oregano, dried2 cups canned black beans2 cups salsa3 green onion(s), diced1 cup tomato(es), diced1 jalapeño pepper, seeded, chopped1 cup cheddar cheese, grated½ cupcilantro, fresh, mincedtortilla chipsFood Safety Before you start, wash all surfaces and your hands with soap and warm water, and remember to wash your hands, utensils and cutting boards after they touch raw meat or eggs. Avoid cross-contamination by using a different cutting board for your meat and other ingredi-ents. Make sure you’re cooking to safe temperatures and chilling any leftovers within two hours.Chicken and Food Safety: An Easy Guide Bacteria are everywhere, and while most are harmless or even benecial to humans, others can make you sick.Recipe StepsTry this delicious chicken nacho dipThe Canadian Chicken Farmers suggest you try this delicious and easy to prepare chicken nacho dip. Preheat oven to 350ºF (180ºC).Heat olive oil in non-stick skillet and sauté garlic with ground chicken and spices. Use the back of the spoon to break up ground chicken into smaller pieces. Add half the salsa (of your choice) to the chicken mixture. Add drained black beans and heat through. Spread this mixture onto the bot-tom of a casserole dish. Top with the other half of the salsa. Dice the green onions, tomatoes and jalapeno. Spread over the salsa topped beans. Top with shredded cheese and minced fresh cilantro. Place in oven and cook until cheese is fully melted. Serve immediately with tortilla chips. Also works well as a lling for soft tortillas.Helpful Tip This is a healthy re-make of an old party favourite. Skipping the usual sour cream or cream cheese and adding cooked beans lowers the amount of fat and boosts the bre content of the recipe. The recipe is exible and you can add other healthy additions like sliced black olives, lettuce, avocado and diced sweet red peppers.Spring 2025 - Page 49Scope RV Camping MagazineTHE CONTENTS OF SCOPE ARE COPYRIGHT BUT MAY BE USED FOR NON-COMMERCIAL USE The entire contents of Scope RV Camping Magazine are protected by copyright but readers may down-load the pages and/or print pages so that they may read or retain the ma-terial without further consent. No pages of Scope may be down-loaded for commercial purposes without written permission from the publisher which is available only on a nancial agreement. This condition was instituted to pro-tect our material such as the origi-nal Scope picnic table plans which some unscrupulous individuals de-cided to use to sell the tables. We granted permission for individuals to build tables for themselves but not to sell to others! The fee for downloading is $500 per page or part thereof, per in-stance, and is intended as a penalty not permission to use for commer-cial use. If you use material from our pages to gain revenue you must get our permission and it is rare that we do so without a nancial contract that lets this publication share in the rev-enue. For information please email harold.merton@yahoo.ca We will prosecute those who down-load for commercial purposes with-out our permission!

CANADIANS SHOULD PAY THE FEE IN CANADIAN $ AS IT IS MORE REASONABLE!Page 50 Spring 2025Scope RV Camping MagazineMarking 60 years of publication!

By Newfoundland & LabradorTravel Around here, we often have a special twist on familiar dishes, as well as creations which are all our own. Our province’s cuisine has its roots in our people’s connection to the land, and a former simplicity of life. Because of this, there are a number of foods that are uniquely Newfoundland and Labrador. Here are ve foods in particular that you need to experience while travelling in the province. Toutons Most frequently eaten for break-fast - but delicious at any time - Toutons are in some ways like a pancake crossed with a donut. Typically the yeasted dough is pan fried until golden and served with molasses or corn syrup. Add a hot cup of your favourite morning beverage and you have yourself a ne start to the day!Jiggs’ Dinner with Figgy Duff This traditional meal is commonly eaten on Sundays in many places Five Foods You Must Experience in Newfoundland and LabradorJiggs’ Dinner with Figgy DuffThere’s plenty of good eating in Newfoundland and Labrador. Here are ve dishes the Tourism Department thinks you should try.around Atlantic Canada, but espe-cially in Newfoundland and Labra-dor. You might have also heard it called a “cooked dinner” or “boiled dinner”. There are different theories regarding the origins of the Jiggs’ Dinner name, but a popular one is about an old comic strip character named Jiggs, who loved corned beef and cabbage. No matter how the name came about, we say it’s delicious. The usual ingredients are salt beef or turkey, turnip, cabbage, potato, carrot, pease pudding, and more often than not, some kind of dessert.Figgy Duff is a traditional dish, usu-ally served along with Jiggs’ Dinner. Unlike the similarly named ggy pudding, this recipe doesn’t use gs, but rather raisins, along with our, molasses, brown sugar and butter. It’s all mixed together and then placed in a pudding bag and boiled. Very similar to the Scottish Fish ‘N’ BrewisContinued on page 52Scope RV Camping Magazine Spring 2025 - Page 51Newfoundland Toutons

Five great Newfoundland foods continuedBakeapple Jam and PieSalt MooseClootie dumpling, it has its roots in the old Cornish term for raisin.If you are interested in putting together your own Jiggs’ Dinner, you can nd our article devoted to it here.Fish ‘N’ Brewis This is a meal which has been around for quite a while. In the past, shermen salted cod to help it last the long winters, as well as keeping it edible for long voyages at sea. The recipe may vary from commu-nity to community, or even house-hold to household, but the primary ingredients are always the same - salt cod and hard bread, or tack. The typical recipe calls for the sh to be soaked in water overnight to reduce the salt content. The bread also gets a soak. The next day, the sh and bread are boiled separately until tender, and then served together. You can add potatoes, sometimes mashed, but you denitely need scrunchins. These are salted pork fat which have been cut into small pieces and fried. Both the rendered fat and the liquid fat are then drizzled over the sh and brewis.Bakeapple Jam and Pie Bakeapples are also known as cloudberries. Bakeapple ber-ries are found in northern tundra and peat bog habitats, are rich in vitamin C and contain few calories. They are generally ready for picking around mid-August and are notori-ously hard to pick, which make them a somewhat rare delicacy. These delicious gems make for a distinct tasting jam, juice, tart or pie, and when paired with whipped cream they become a memorable experience. Salt Moose by Lori McCarthy from Cod Sounds Moose meat is a big part of the Newfoundland and Labrador diet. It’s lean, delicious, and can be cooked in so many different ways. Sausages and burgers are often found on restaurant menus, and sometimes you might even come across a moose pot pie or a roast. And if you ever have the opportunity to enjoy a moose fry over a camp stove, take it! Make sure you have some fresh homemade bread on hand to dip into the gravy. Salt meat, like we mentioned earlier, is also an important part of Newfoundland and Labrador’s food culture—especially in Jiggs’ Dinner. Moose meat can be cured using the same traditional process as beef, so sometimes you’ll nd it in Jiggs’ Dinner or certain soups as well. Make sure you take time to enjoy the great foods when visiting New-foundland and Labrador!Newfoundland sheep take a ride to and from pasture islands You may nd it strange to see a boatload of sheep heading across the water while in Newfoundland. The sheep are ferried to pastures in remote places where they graze for a period of time. Later on the owners go fetch them bringing them back home again. In any event it makes for a great picture like the one reproduced here courtesy of Newfoundland and Labrador Travel. It looks like the sheep are enjoy-ing the ride and not one is trying to escape.Page 52 - Spring 2025 Scope RV Camping Magazine

Newfoundland’s ve heritage sites continuedisms. You can tour the Mistaken Point Ecological Re-serve to see these fossils and walk on rocks that once made up the deep ocean oor.Discovery Geopark – Bonavista Peninsula Tickle Cove Sea Arch, is part of the Discovery Geopark on the Bonavista Peninsula The Discovery Geopark is a collection of 10 geologi-cally signicant sites on the upper half of the Bonavista Peninsula. Scattered around the coast are some of the best-preserved fossils in the world, dating back to over half a billion years ago. Walk the Murphy’s Cove-Lodge’s Pond Trail and keep an eye out for the location where the Haootia, one of the world’s oldest complex animal fossils was discovered, or explore the rock surface of the Port Union National Historic Dis-trict Boardwalk for fossils from the Ediacaran Period. The Discovery Geopark is not just about fossils; Elliston’s root cellar history—inuenced by the area’s natural landscape and soil composition—also contrib-uted to the park’s UNESCO status, as did the Devil’s Footprints in Keels and the Sea Arch in Tickle Cove. Are you planning to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites this year? If so, be sure to check the province’s itinerary planner for inspiration and planning tips.Mistaken Point Ecological ReserveDiscovery Point on the Bonavista Peninsula Photos by Newfoundland and Labrador TravelSpring 2025 - Page 53Scope RV Camping MagazineMarine AtlanticMarine Atlantic has two routes to Newfoundland from the North Sydney, Nova Scotia area. One travels to Port aux Basques the other a much longer trip to Ar-gentia.Eastport Beach = FunEastport Beach is the perfect place to relax during your visit to New-foundland. Facilities include gazebos, change rooms, washrooms, showers, picnic tables and benches. Mobi-Mats also allow the beach to be accessed by people with disabilities. There is a fresh water brook for kids to play in and they are connected with a boardwalk and nature tail to North Side Beach. Newfoundland and Labrador Travel photo.

A visit to Quidi Vidi is well worth the time! While visiting in the St. John’s area you might like to venture to a quaint old Newfoundland shing Vil-lage called Quidi Vidi. Some say the name comes from the French name “Quidville”. Some say it is Latin: “que de vide” or Ital-ian: “qui divide”, meaning that which divides. There is also a legend that a woman by the name of Kitty Vitty lived in these parts, and she had a house of ill-repute, so it was named after her! In any event, it is absolutely a post card village. A nice 2.5 km walk from downtown St. John’s where you can sit and soak in the relaxed atmosphere amid wonderful people. This quaint shing village is located just in the east end of St. John’s and will transport you to a different time. From the idyllic cottages dotting the roadside to the wharf lined with colourful shing stages, Quidi Vidi, pronounced as Kitty Vitty or Quada Vida, depending on who you ask, offers a glimpse into the quintes-sential island outports of Newfound-land & Labrador.THINGS TO DO IN QUIDI VIDI There’s a two hour shing tour with Quidi Vidi Charters that will leave you breathless as you watch whales, eagles and maybe even an iceberg pass by if you are there in the right season!. As you troll for sh you will learn about the history of St. John’s dating back to 1497 and, with help from the seasoned captains, you’ll jig for cod. After everyone has tried their hand at jigging, you’ll head back to the wharf where you will learn to llet a sh and enjoy it right on the dock. If you are a late riser, you can still hop on board later in the morning or for an afternoon trip.. After visiting the town you’ll likely want to wash it down with a refresh-ing brew. Then head to Quidi Vidi Brewery, a former sh plant turned brewery, situated just down the road from the shing charters. Relax, enjoy the view, and sip on some delicious local craft beer. If you’re looking for a bit of local entertainment, the Quidi Vidi Tap-room has live music every Thurs-day, Friday, Saturday and Sunday!TWACKING IN THE VILLAGEThere’s a large yellow building on the edge of the harbour where you can take your turn at “twacking”, also known as window shopping, after you photograph some of the sheds and twins lofts. The Quidi Vidi Village Artisan Studios is the perfect place to window shop or pick up gifts for friends, family, or maybe a little something for your-self. Housing studios for up to ten emerging craftspeople, the Artisan Studios gives you the opportunity to meet some of our province’s talented and delightful craftspeople, learn about their creative process-es, and nd out what makes their handmade products so special.DINNER IN A COTTAGE Shopping has a way of making you work up an appetite so it may be time to refuel at the quaint and welcoming Mallard Cottage. This award winning 18th Century Irish-Newfoundland cottage focuses on presenting Newfoundland ingredi-ents in an approachable and com-fortable environment while providing a unique dining experience in one of the oldest wooden buildings in North America. Speaking of heritage, what better way to end your day in Quidi Vidi than at the The Inne of Olde, also known as Linda’s. This unassum-ing parlour/pub is tucked into the hill at the fork in the road. Linda’s is truly a local treasure and a must visit for a taste of real Newfoundland pub culture. The Quidi Vidi Brewery is located in the green building shown here. It is a former sh plant and now home to the province’s great brew.Photos and story courtesy Newfoundland and Labrador Traveland Destination St. John’sA beer pour at Quidi VidiNEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADORPage 54 - Spring 2025 Scope RV Camping Magazine

Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site It’s the most easterly point in Canada Situated on Canada’s most east-erly point of land, the oldest surviv-ing lighthouse in Newfoundland and Labrador offers a glimpse into the lives of 19th century lighthouse keepers and their families. During your visit you can marvel at icebergs, migrating whales, and hunting seabirds on this rough Atlantic coast. Enjoy breathtaking views, migrat-ing wildlife, and a fascinating history as you wander around the site at your own pace. You can also let their guides sweep you away into the simple, isolated life of a light keeping family in the 1830s. It is open from the beginning of June to October each year. Open daily, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm The grounds are open year-round.Heritage Shop The Cape Spear Heritage Shop is operated by the Historic Sites Association of Newfoundland & Labrador. Located in the visi-tor kiosk, this gift shop features a selection of local art, crafts, and souvenirs, with prots going to-wards cultural heritage projects in the province. Art Gallery The Canadian Coast Guard Alumni operates an Art Gallery in what was formally the Assistant Light Keeper’s house. Over 60 paintings of lighthouses in Newfoundland and Labrador are on display for viewing. Painted by Leslie Noseworthy, each image will fascinate the visitor with details often overlooked when seeing light-houses in person. There is an entry fee and it is recommended that people call the site for the Art Gallery’s operating season.Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic SiteLocation: Blackhead Road, St. NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADORThe Cape Spear Lightouse in Newfoundland is a national historic site and is the most easerly point of land in Canada. Photo courtesy of Newfoundland and Labrador Travel.John’s, NL | 47 31 20.59 N 52 37 24.12 W Admission: Adults $9, Seniors $7.50 Youth FreeDirections: Once in St. John’s, travel west on Water Street to Les-lie Street. Turn left at the lights and go over the bridge, to the stop sign. Go straight through the intersec-tion and continue for 15 km—you are now on Route 11, also known as Cape Spear Drive. At the end of the road is Cape Spear National Historic Site.Phone 709-772-2191lhncapspear-capespearnhs@pc.gc.ca Location of the Cape Spear Lighthouse on Newfoundland’s coast.Spring 2025 - Page 55Scope RV Camping Magazine

Whaling Heritage - Red Bay National Historic Site now an archaeological site Established in the 16th-century by Basque mariners, Red Bay is now an archaeological site that provides the earliest, most complete, and best-preserved testimony of the European whaling tradition. The site, called Gran Baya by those that sailed here every summer, became a major source of the whale oil that lit the homes of Europe. These days it is a stop along the Labrador Coastal Drive, and home to whale bones, a restored chalupa, and an interpretation centre near the beach.NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR Take a hike along the beach and step into the interpretation centre to see an eight-metre chalupa, which Red Bay National Historic Site. Newfoundland and Labrador Travel photos. You can visualize the day the San Juan sank in 1565, only 50 metres away, and stand at the whaler’s burial ground where 140 colleagues and friends were carefully laid to rest.whalers used on the ocean to har-poon their giant catch. To get a full appreciation for the size of these whales, compare the chalupa to the assembled collec-tions of whalebones displayed. These showcase a time of pros-perity and dangerous adventure, illustrating a long-ago way of life. If you take a boat or kayak trip to nearby Saddle Island, you will nd the remains of a time miraculously preserved. Where once stood the home of the rst large-scale whale oil produc-tion in the world, now piles of red clay roof tiles can be found on the island, 500 years since its closure.Getting to Red Bay Historic SiteRed Bay National Historic Site is part of Expedition 51°: South. It can be reached via ferry from St. Barbe, Newfoundland, to Blanc Sablon, Québec, and just an 82-kilometre, or 1-hour, drive.You’ll no doubt see plenty of New-foundland moose in your travels.The Atlantic Pufn is Newfoundland’s provincial bird.A sherman llets cod - an an-cient tradition that continues.Page 56 - Spring 2025 Scope RV Camping Magazine

Camping is available in Gros Morne There are a number of Parks Can-ada campgrounds in Gros Morne National Park.They include:•Gros Morne Campground•Berry Hill Campground•Green Point Campground•Lomond Campground•Shallow Bay Campground•Trout River Campground Parks Canada recognizes that being in nature provides important physical and mental health benets. Going outdoors, including camping overnight, is a great way to maintain health and wellness. Parks Canada’s reservation service has moved to an updated platform and visitors will now need to sign up for a new user account to make camping reservations at New-foundland and Labrador’s national park campgrounds. Gros Morne National Park Camp-grounds at a Glance Gros Morne offers 236 campsites at ve Parks Canada campgrounds which are suitable tents, trailer and recreation vehicles. Two of the ve campgrounds are un-serviced (i.e. do not have electrical hook-ups). There also was a KOA situated within the park boundaries.* Green Point Campground is open year round by self-registra-tionPrimitive Camping Primitive campsites are located along several park trails. Facilities at most locations include wooden tent pads, bear-proof food lockers or poles, and pit toilets. Portable stoves are required. A camping permit is required. Please register with park staff. These sites are not maintained between October and May each year. Further information on camping can be found on the Newfoundland & Labrador Tourism website and the Visit Gros Morne website. Informa-tion about community businesses and services is located in the Facili-ties and Services section. Please note that Parks Canada requires an entance fee of $11 per day for adults, $8 for sentiors and youth 17 and under are free. They also offer an annual pass at $75.25 per adult, $54.50 for senors or $151.25 for a family.www.visitgrosmorne.com For a map of Gros Morne visit:https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/nl/grosmorne/visit/cartes-mapsNEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR Gros Morne National Park is large, with seven different commu-nities located in the South, Centreal and Northern section of the Park. Each area has numerous accom-modations to chose from including B &B’s, Hotels, Inn’s, Cottages, Hostels, RV Parks, and Parks Canada Campsites. Whether you settle down in one town as a home base, or move from the south to the north, you will need at least four days to full enjoy all the sights and sounds. Gros Morne is the second highest peak on the island of Newfound-land, exceeded only by Lewis Hill. Often capped with clouds, or clothed in fog or snow, the mountain’s mystery is reected in its name: Gros Morne… big lone mountain. This 806 m high at-topped moun-tain is a slice of Arctic tundra far south of its usual range. The habitat is a heaven for rock ptarmigan, Arctic hare, and woodland caribou. Around the summit, there are views of a spectacular glacial-carved landscape: the deep fjord arms of Bonne Bay and the U-shaped trough of Ten Mile Pond. Hiking the Mountain One of the most popular hikes in Newfoundland, and for good reason; there are two distinct ways Camping is available in a number of Parks Canada campsites in New-foundland’s Gros Morne National Park. Parks Canada photo.Gros Morne MountainGros Morne Mountain - second highest!to experience the big lone mountain depending on your desires, tness level, and weather To the Base and BackDistance: 9km – moderate. Open year-round A mountain is more than its sum-mit, and depending on the person, and the day, a stroll to the base of Gros Morne, might be the right deci-sion!Continued on page 59Spring 2025 - Page 57Scope RV Camping Magazine

Hiking the famous “Damnable Trail” By Hayley Gendron and Taylor Burk Behind every trail is a story, the Damnable Trail system of central Newfoundland and Labrador has an especially good one. The name ‘Damnable’ comes from the phrase ‘damn the bell’, which has been part of the vernacu-lar of this region for hundreds of years. We were told the legend of a pirate ship that had been hiding from the British in Saint Chad’s Harbour. The skipper aboard the vessel snarled the words after ac-cidentally striking a bell that echoed through the bay and notied their adversaries of their hiding location. Now, ‘damnable’ has been ce-mented into the language and history of the peninsula, and is physically represented by a network of bells at different lookouts along the trail system that hikers can ring upon arrival. Stunning coastlines and vistas sur-round the Damnable Trail. While hiking, it is easy to overlook the hard work that goes into build-ing the trails we visit. It is rare to see trail builders at work; they seem to magically and selessly nd time to develop and maintain beautiful paths for the benet of all who use them. The Damnable trails have brought together the inhabitants of communities in the Eastport Peninsula such as Happy Adven-ture, Eastport, Sandy Cove, and Salvage to roll up their sleeves and work hard to rebuild and expand the paths of their ancestors. Historic walking and hauling paths have been used for many genera-tions, and after the Salvage sh plant was destroyed in a re in 2001, many of those who were put out of work were hired by the gov-ernment to refurbish them to help create part of the Damnable net-work. All of their passion and efforts have established the region as a top-notch coastal hiking destination with over 30 kilometres of beauti-fully maintained trails to suit all ages and abilities. We visited in the beginning of June, and were blown away with the high caliber hiking the Eastport Peninsula offers. We thought about those trail builders often during our hikes, grateful for their contribu-tions. Most of our time was spent on the Salvage trails, and although the weather was not in our favour, the views and terrain still made the area a new favourite for us in New-foundland and Labrador. High rocky cliffs plunge into the turbulent Atlantic under scenic trails through boreal forest, with rocky islands beyond. The Salvage hikes have several well-marked spur trails leading to diverse lookouts. We hiked most of them, including Net Point, South-ern Head, and the iconic Round Head Lookout. The side trail to Old Harry Rock Lookout brings you to the name-sake promontory jetting out of the ocean, and the massive standing wave it creates, which has been re-sponsible for countless shipwrecks. ‘Old Harry’ is a euphemism for the Devil, aptly named for all of the destruction it has caused. Net Point may have been our favourite trail and lookout of the bunch; we were impressed by the scale of the rugged cliffs overlook-ing the Salvage townsite and Round Head. We saw a bald eagle soaring in front of us as waves crashed below, with the moody weather making the scene look especially epic. During our visit, we based our-selves at the Happy Adventure Inn, and were hosted by such kind and helpful staff who have a long history in the area and passion that proves it. They gave us detailed advice on all their favourite trails and sights (staff members helped build the trails themselves), and even took us out for a boat tour to nd pufns and icebergs. The Inn sits high on a bluff overlook-ing a rocky cove, and is home to Chucky’s Seafood & Wild Game Restaurant, where we had our favourite fresh seafood meals in Newfoundland. Happy Adventure and the Inn serve as a great central hub for hiking in the region. Plus, it is hard not to fall in love with a town with such a charming name! There are plans to expand the Damnable trail network to eventu-ally link up with the beautiful inland trails of Terra Nova National Park nearby. Such a robust hiking system with rich history and pictur-esque villages should certainly con-vince you to add hiking in central Newfoundland and Labrador to your bucket list! Hikers pause for a break near the town of Salvage, Newfoundland.Photo & story courtesy Newfoundland and Labrador Travel.NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADORPage 58 - Spring 2025 Scope RV Camping Magazine

Viking Visitors - L’Anse aux Meadows Canada’s Inaugural UNESCO Heritage Site Canada’s inaugural UNESCO site, the Viking settlement at the tip of Newfoundland’s Great Northern Peninsula, was the rst real evi-dence that these European adven-turers had reached the new world over 1,000 years ago – long before Columbus. The excavated remains of wood-framed, peat-turf buildings are similar to those found in Norse Greenland and Iceland, and are the only authenticated site in North America. If you take the time to visit here you will be able to see just how the You have no doubt seen this group of lovable youngsters frolicking about L’Ance Aux Meadows National Historic Site in TV commercials for Newfoundland and Labrador. The Vikings settled in this spot on the Great Northern Peninsula of Newfoundland over 1,000 years ago and well before Christopher Columbus supposedly discovered North America. Newfoundland and Labrador Travel photos by Barrett and MacKay.Interpreters help visitors under-stand the story of early Viking settlements at L’Anse aux mead-ows National Historic Site.NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR The 4.5 km climb, takes you past views of the mountain punctuated by numerous waterfalls before opening up to views of Bonne Bay and a cluster of small ponds at the base of the mountain, at an eleva-tion of 320 m. Make your way back down the same path to the parking lot for a 9 km round trip.Whole MountainDistance: 17km – difcult. Trail Closed May 1st – Last Friday in June Taking on the entire hike is a full-day affair and requires planning appropriately. After leaving the base, the trail takes you up a very steep boulder gully to the summit of the mountain (500-meter climb, which takes an hour or more to cover ~1km). The summit of the mountain can be a very harsh place, so be prepared for rapid temperature changes, lack of water, high wind, and blistering sun. This is the most challenging part of the hike and is not recom-mended for small children. After the summit, there can be a sense of accomplishment, but don’t let your guard down yet! With nearly 10km left to hike, and the descent thru ferry gulch being no easy task, pace yourself, and rest as you need it. For further information on New-foundland and Labrador visit their website at:www.newfoundlandlabrador.comGros Morne Mountain continuedSpring 2025 - Page 59Scope RV Camping MagazineVikings lived and enjoy tales of their adventures long ago. Docents and reenacters will help you understand the great signi-cance of this ancient civilization.The Pufn is Newfoundland’s bird

Shady characters we have met over our 60 yearsBy Harold Merton When you’ve been in business for 60 years you run across some shady people and some shady deals. Yes we’ve had our share of those types during the 60 long years we have been leading the consumer RV publication industry in Canada. Scope began in 1965 and we did a lot of free distribution at sports shows and RV manufacturer events in this country. About ve years after we were joined at a big Toronto show by a new camping publication that had decided to enter the eld. As I have mentioned before and a line that this one competitor abso-lutely hates is “like the rst pizza place in town once you go to all the work of breaking into a new market there is someone who has lazily been sitting back waiting for the right time to copy your idea and enter the same market!” That’s exactly what happened in this case. Someone who had published a small dealer magazine in another eld other than camping decided it was time they shared the pie and out came this new camping magazine. Now to be sure we do not confuse this with a man named Charlie Clay who had published a trade mobile home manufacturer’s maga-zine serving the same manufactur-ers who made RVs - it was not him! Charlie became a good personal friend and we socialized with him and his family for many years. This was someone new and their new magazine carried the mast-head of a very well known U.S. weekly magazine with one word above it. I don’t know for sure but I am positive that if that U.S. publisher had learned their copyrighted name and logo had been used they would have engaged their lawyers imme-diately to put a stop to it. The logo disappeared quickly. Because Scope had created such good results for advertisers it was easy for those new folks to sell advertising because advertisers ex-pected the same type of response. I don’t think they got it and subse-quent issues were not as easy to sell once the advertisers realized it. We used to go to the annual RV manufacturer show exclusively for dealers in Louisville, Kentucky once a year. One year I was there when a gang of other Canadian publishers stopped me and asked me to join them as they confronted the pub-lisher of that other magazine over an advertising piece where they stated they had 300,000 circulation. The leader and the pack caught up to him speaking to the advertising buyer for a large U.S. RV manufac-turer and in front of the “bigwig” he insisted on an explanation of how the hell he could make that claim. In our best years Scope had a distribution of about 15,000 cop-ies through regular distribution plus abut 20,000 more though newsstands and free giveaways at shows and camping events. The other publications had similar or smaller numbers. That publisher tried to avoid the question but the pack leader would not leave and eventually he ex-plained that he had ten issues a year with “supposed” 30,000 copies an issue and that is where the 300,000 gure came from. Of course that was totally mislead-ing as circulation gures are always “per issue”. When Scope began publishing a Canadian magazine we had a big show booth with a large facade that read “CANADIAN CAMPING MAGAZINE” We wanted Canadians to know they had their own publication. Strangely enough when that “new” magazine changed their name it was so close to our booth banner name that it wasn’t funny. It did backre on them twice. Once we got a full page colour ad from Reese the people who made trailer hitches. They were trying to compete with our regular advertiser Eaz-Lift . The order was addressed to Canadian Camping Magazine and our address at that time. We ran that ad and were never paid for it because someone at the ad agency made a mistake and sent the material to us instead of the other magazine. They lost that ad for the show issue but we never got paid because someone at the agency made a mistake. For that reason Reese products have been banned from the pages of Scope and you will never see that product in any way in our pages until they pay us the roughly $2,000 they still owe for that ad. In another incident we were doing a show at the CNE Exhibi-tion grounds in Toronto. The small booths were on the second oor and it was very inconvenient to lug thousands of magazines up the stairs to the booth. For that reason we went down a few days before the show, set up our booth and then came home. We had our printer deliver the magazines to our booth as they had the equipment to lug the heavy boxes up. When we got there the morning the show opened we simply opened the top boxes in the pile behind our booth and started handing them out. Our competitor was doing a spe-cial book for dealers and for the rst day or two of the show which was for dealers they had no books that they had sold advertising in for the show. The rst public day of the show came and they had no books either. It should be noted however that they never had a large number of copies to give away free at a show. I made pictures of our pile of maga-zines and their pile which consisted of just a few boxes and sent them to advertisers so they could see what Scope RV Camping MagazinePage 60 - Spring 2025Continued on page 61

We meet a lot of shady people in 60 yearsthey paid for. On the Saturday morning of the public days of the show (Sat and Sun) about three reps from the oth-er magazine along with what turned out to be a truck driver barged into the back of our booth and started rearranging the boxes. It turned out that the truck driver delivering books for the other magazine saw our Canadian Camping Magazine banner across the top of our booth and dropped their shipment there. Later that day the driver from our printer came and piled our boxes of books on top. Because we took at least 5,000 copies and there were a little over 100 to a box, there were a lot of boxes and the competitors few books were at the bottom of the pile. Sad - but it served them right for using a name so close to an adver-tising line we had used since our inception many years previous. Later they changed the name of the publication to be a little more “hoity-toity” and we deliberately never use the word they use in their name. Despite being in publication for years they have never really under-stood why Scope is so popular. At one time they advertised that they were “Canada’s oldest consumer camping magazine” Our lawyer red them off a letter bringing the lie to their attention. I never saw that claim again. No matter what they ever do they will never be “Canada’s oldest consumer RV magazine”. We were there years before them and there is no way to take that away from us. Then there was another RV camp-ing magazine published in another province. The publisher was a middle-aged woman.. She had the habit of stealing copy-righted material from Scope and using it in her magazine. No matter how many times I pointed it out to her she continued. My lawyer nally sent her a letter outlining over 30 Spring 2025 - Page 61Scope RV Camping MagazineContinued on page 62instances of copyright violation in just one issue of her book. He made it clear if there was any more we would take immediate legal action. A few months later one of my good advertisers Bill Braden of Sun ‘n Fun Winnebago in London. Ontario had just received delivery of a new Winnebago model with two doors. He wanted me to feature it on our cover. I suggested I take the unit down to Niagara Falls and do a picture with the falls in the background. We did it but when I got to Niagara I found the Parks Commission had changed the parking dramatically and you could not park anywhere near the falls. I nally ventured upstream and found a spot where you could see the spray from the falls in the back-ground. It took my wife (at the time} some time to get my two young boys ready (I had bought them new brightly coloured rain slickers for the picture) but when we were just about ready to shoot the picture a police car and re truck drove into the centre of my picture because of an emergency. To make a long story short some-one had committed suicide up-stream and had driven their car into the Niagara River miles above the falls and it was slowly heading for the brink of the falls. Four hours later everyone left and I got back to making my picture. In those days I shot 3 1/4 X 4 1/4 inch colour transparencies and of course I never make just one shot. After the lm was processed I picked the best one for the cover and Bill asked me if he could have one of the extras. Of course I gave it to him. However I did not know it at the time but that lady publisher paid him a visit to try and sell him an ad and the transparency was sitting on his desk. She swiped it and told him she was using a Winnebago on the cover so he should have an ad. He went for it! Later when he saw a proof of the front cover of her magazine he was shocked to see my picture on it!He then went looking for the trans-parency and could not nd it so he assumed she had taken it and he notied me. I was really ticked off after all the work that had gone into that picture so I called her. She acknowledged that she was running a Winnebago on the cover and that it was already printed. She told me her magazine would be out before mine so it would look like I copied her! I asked her where she got the pic-ture and she told me it was a press release picture that came from Win-nebago’s head ofce. I reminded her of our copyright situation and that there would be no further warnings. She was quite arrogant and was ready to hang up when I advised her that the picture was mine and I could prove it because the two little kids in the picture were my sons! The line went dead for a few sec-onds and she then hung up. When her book came out at the show it had a totally different picture on the cover and it was not a Win-nebago. Never did hear whether she billed Sun n Fun for the ad. At another time she sold a lot of advertising for an issue that she was taking to a huge NCHA Campvention in Ontario. She printed lots and had them shipped down to the site but sales did not go well and I shot a picture of thou-sands of copies of her magazine dumped in the garbage at the end of the campout. Her advertisers didn’t get very good value for those advertising dollars. To add insult to the whole situa-tion the government of her province gave her about a $60,000 grant so they could buy a printing press. Later a large U.S. credit card com-pany came out with their publica-tion calling it a name very similar

We meet a lot of shady people in 60 yearsPage 62 - Spring 2025Scope RV Camping Magazineto hers. The word was she got a settlement of about $15,000 for the name. Unfortunately her lawyer al-legedly got the funds and deducted a large outstanding legal fee from the proceeds before she got it. Years passed by and we never heard anymore from her or the maga-zine. Then there was a water system distributor located in Toronto. A Cana-dian had secured the rights to sell the product in this country. The general manager called me on the Friday before a weekend that we were nishing a show issue. He wanted desperately to get an ad into our show issue and he was prepared to drive it down from Toronto to Lon-don to make it. It was one of the worst snow days of the year and I was very concerned about his safety driving to London. He was ready to do it because he really wanted in that show issue. I asked him if the ad was in any of the U.S. camping magazine and he said yes and mentioned it. I sug-gested I go to the local News Depot and buy a copy of that magazine to save him driving all that way. He was thrilled that I would do that! I left and it took me nearly two hours to drive from the suburbs of London to downtown to get the magazine. It was normally a 20 minute drive. The ad was in that issue and I was able to get it in our issue making a change in the bottom portion to reect the Canadian distributor’s details. That Sales Manager and I met at the Toronto show and he shook my hand thanking me for what I had done. He was very happy with the ad. Unfortunately I never got paid for that invoice and when I inquired I was referred to a lawyer who owned the company. He was your typical “slea-zebag lawyer” who told me that the Sales Manager was not authorized to place advertising and so no payment would be coming. I asked to speak to the man who had placed the ad and the lawyer advised me that he had red him. Remember the saying “No good turn goes unpunished!” A year or two later I was at the Toronto show on dealer days and bumped into two of Canada’s major RV manufacturer company presi-dents. We were all good friends and they stopped talking to the man they were talking with to greet me. One of them introduced me to the man saying that he should advertise his product in Scope. Turns out it was the lawyer who stiffed me. He was trying to sell both of them on using his product in their models. It would have been a great sale and the product was good! I took the opportunity to chastise him for not paying for the ad after all I had done to get it in the show issue and the two presidents were astounded! “You stiffed him?” the one president said to the lawyer. Things changed dramatically in the discussion, the conversation ended and the group broke up. Neither manufacturer ever used his product. One of the presidents spoke to me on a later occasion to ask more about the incident and just shook his head. As we used to say in the newspaper business “Justice reared her ugly head!” Sleazebag lawyers are a blight in our society but this one paid a high price for trying to use his legal posi-tion to cheat someone out of a small ad fee. And then there were the news distributors. Distribution to these guys is a major waste of money for most publications. At one time we were giving a na-tional distributor 15,000 copies an issue. At a cost of 75 cents per copy to print in those days that meant an expenditure of over $11,000 an issue and unfortunately I feel dishonesty runs rampant in this industry. I have a college friend who lived in a small town outside Hamilton, Ontario. He called me one day and said he had found my magazine on the stand in a little variety store in his town. I asked him to go in and buy a copy and go in each day and buy another so I could get a report from the news distributor in that area. He did so. He bought seven copies before they were taken off the stand and I waited for a report. Nothing! No sales! Unbelievable! I had asked him to save the receipts as I was going to reimburse him and he did. That store either reported no sales or the distributor changed his num-bers. When I challenged them on it and said I could produce receipts to prove it the distributor in Hamilton told me to send them to them. I copied them and did so. Their excuse was the receipt did not say it was our magazine but just magazines so they didn’t consid-er it proof. What a bunch of crooks! Any Canadian magazine on news-stands in this country will not make money off newsstand sales. In the rst place the distributor wants 60% to 70 % of the sale and then they cheat you. Bar codes are a problem because if a retailer has just one copy left they can scan that bar code as many times as they wish and they then keep 100% of the sales. At that point we ceased putting cop-ies on newsstands and upped our efforts to give more free copies away at more events. At least that way we got genuine readership and results for our advertisers! Even Publishers Clearing House takes over 90% of the revenue from sales of subscriptions and as one of their reps explained to me “it builds your paid circulation allowing you to get higher advertising rates!’ I’m not playing that game! It has been an interesting 60 years. We have met a lot of shady people but miraculously many of them have had their comeuppance. I am sure we’ll come across more of them but now we have 60 year experience in dealing with them!

Annual OPA Retiree Rally held in Norwich, Ont.Campers gather at the Norwich Fire Service BBQ for lunch.Photos by Lynn AcreA section of the camping area at Norwich.Food always plays a big part at the Retiree RallyRudy Sandau and Lynn Acre ready the xins for the taco lunch. Twenty-nine units were on site at the Norwich Community Cen-tre for the 48th Annual Ontario Retiree Rally from June 10 till June 14, 2024. Following Opening Ceremonies on Monday, which included the singing of both the U.S. And Cana-dian National Anthems, 58 campers enjoyed a variety of card games. The evening concluded with a selection of homemade squares provided by the Meandering Mo-hawks. Thirty-two people participated in the Washer Toss Tournament held Tuesday morning at 10:30 am., which was organized by Mi-chael & Ruth Taziar. First Place winners were Don Blenkinsop and Lynn Acre. Second place winners were John Waite and Sharon Sandau. A Nacho Supremo Lunch fed the hungry crowd. In the picture at right are: Lynn Acre, Karen Chateld, Connie Skillings, Rudy Sandau & Sharon Sandau who served a plateful of nacho chips topped with hamburger and shredded cheese. The hungry campers then added other toppings such as sour cream, salsa, hot peppers, chopped toma-The dynamic duo - “Two Of A Kind” - had the campers tapping their toes and a few even got up to dance during the evening en-tertainment at the Retiree Rally.toes, onions, and lettuce. The Norwich Volunteer Fire-ghter BBQ was held on Tuesday evening at 5 pm, the aroma of sizzling sausages and juicy ham-burgers drew the hungry campers to the parking lot, where the volun-teer reghters cooked and served these tasty treats. Tuesday’s entertainment featured the dynamic duo of “Two of A Kind” (shown at right) and had the campers tapping their toes, clap-ping their hands and even singing along. A few couples enjoyed a slow dance. Lynn Acre led a brief Devotional Service on Wednesday morning that included two hymns, an ob-Scope RV Camping Magazine Spring 2025 - Page 63Continued on page 64

OPA annual Retiree Rally continuedject lesson and a collection for the local food bank. The collection totaled $116 plus some non-perish-ablefood items. The Meandering Mohawks organized another successful year of Retiree Olympic Games. The competition was keen and some “tie scores” had to be broken by addi-tional events. Marilyn Rosenberger, of the Meandering Mohawks, presented Retiree Olympic First Place prize to Karen Chateld and Second Place prize to Angela Cull in the Women’s Division.The catered meal is always a highlight of the Re-tiree Rally. Photos by Lynn Acre.Games and other activities kept the campers busy during the annual rally.Good food and good company!Karen and Brian Chateld enjoy one of the card games. She also presented First Place Prize to Don Lumley and Second Place Prize to Lew Acre for their scores in the Men’s Division. On Wednesday night, Chrissy’s Catering from Tillsonburg served a delicious meal of roast beef, roast chicken, mashed potatoes & gravy, mixed vegetables, garden salad and a variety of pies. Nobody left hungry. Wednesday’s entertainment once again thrilled the campers with their unique harmony and skilled instru-mental offerings. Michael Taziar provided a pro-pane re pit which attracted several campers to gather around with their chairs. Don Lumley brought Gerry Neutel, left, supplied the materials and supervised the greeting card craft session.Connie Skillings, left & Adele Waite take part in the Bocce Ball Tournament of the Olympics.Marilyn Rosenberger and friends supplied a delicious breakfast casserole on Thursday.along his guitar and Rocky Lum-ley shared her homemade music maker...and before you knew it, a campre party erupted with laugh-ter, music & relight. Marilyn Rosenberger with some Continued on page 65Page 64 - Spring 2025 Scope RV Camping Magazine

OPA Retiree Rally in Norwich continuedhelp from her friends, provided a delicious breakfast casserole on Thursday morning. The bountiful meal was complete with juice, mini mufns and fruit salad. A good crowd gathered on the ineld of the ball diamond on Thursday morning for the Bocce Ball Tournament. This event was organized by Wayne & Marilyn Roserberger. Winners were: First Place Team Members Dave Palmateer, Wal-ter Meixner, Heather Rennalls & Michael Taziar. The Second Place Team Members were David West, Adele Waite, Arnie Gerum & Con-nie Skillings. Gerry Nuetel supplied all the materials and provided instruc-tions so that each of the ladies in attendance could create their own unique greeting card. The Retiree Rally Golf Tourna-ment was held at Creekside Golf Club just south of Woodstock on Thursday. There was a three-way tie for “low-est score”. Dave Skillings, Don Lumley and Jim Sampson drew cards to determine the winner. Lew Acre (organizer of tournament) presented the top prize to Jim Sampson. “Closest to the Pin” to John Waite. “Most Honest Golfer” (aka “highest score”) to Wayne Rosenberger. Guest Speaker Auxiliary Con-stable Garret spoke about Scams and How to Prevent ThemHe explained the two basic types of scams. The Romance Scam is where someone contacts you online, for friendship, and then builds trust, followed by romance and eventually they ask for money to be e-trans-ferred to them. These fraudsters usually have several “victims” in play at one time. If you suspect fraud, just refuse to communicate with them. The Emergency Scam is where you receive a phone call from someone claiming to be the police or a lawyer, who says that your grandchild is in jail and needs money immediately, or you’ve been convicted of a crime and you need to pay money immediately or the police will show up at your door. Action in the washer toss compeition. Photos by Lynn Acre.The peanut glallery takes in the washer toss action.The Doggelgangers entertained.Don and Ropcky Lumley provid-ed the musical entertainment at the campre. They attempt to create panic and a sense of urgency. In this case, insist on taking a moment to think, to check out a few facts. Ask them to call you back. The truth is that the police will never demand money over the phone. This is a scam.Red ags which signify fraud are when they ask you to send them gift cards, cash or “google cash”. Report suspected fraud to www.antifraudcentre.ca or call 1-888-495-8501Prevention Tips:•Never autosave your banking password. It’s ok to save other passwords, but never for your bank-ing one. •Make sure that your banking pass-word is different from any of your other passwords. You could set an “alarm” on your phone or computer to alert you to any withdrawals from your bank. •Pay for your bills only through your bank’s webpage, NOT with an APP.Continued on page 66Spring 2025 - Page 65Scope RV Camping Magazine

OPA Retiree Rally in Norwich continued•Check your computer for spyware and viruses regularly.•Only make online purchases from trusted websites.•Do not sign up for Equifax or Tran-sunion. Friday Morning Farewell A variety of fresh donuts from Tim Hortons and hot coffee from the committee were available on Friday morning to allow for campers to share a few more moments togeth-er before everyone headed home. It was another great rally that is a benet of belonging to a camping organization that has a lot of good people and a lot of great activities! If membership in the Family Campers and RVers is of interest to you please see the advertise-ment on page 50 in this issue. You would be welcomed with open First place Washer Toss Winners Don Blenkinsop, left, Lynn Acre, right, presented by Michael Ta-ziar, centre.Second place Washer Toss win-ners, John Waite, left, and Sha-ron Sandau, right, presented by Michael Taziar, centre.Jim Sampson won the draw for golf rst place in a tie with Dave Skillings and Don Lumley. Pre-senter is Lew Acre, right.“Closest to the pin” golf winner was John Waite, right, presented by Lew Acre.Retiree Olympics rst place win-ner in the women’s division was Karen Chaeld, right, presented by Marilyn Rosenberger.Second place winner in the wom-en’s division of the Retiree Olym-pics was Angela Cull, right, pre-sented by Marilyn Rosenberger.Lew Acre was the second place winner in the men’s division of the Retiree Olympics. Presented by Marilyn Rosenberger.Don Lumley of Michigan won rst place in the men’s division of the Retiree Olympics. Presented by Marilyn Rosenberger.arms! The 2025 Retiree Rally has been SPECIAL THANKS TO LYNN ACRE FOR STORY AND PICTURES OF THE RETIREE RALLYtentatively booked for June 9 13, 2025. They hope to see you there!Page 66 - Spring 2025Scope RV Camping Magazine

Dodge celebrates 20th anniversary of HEMI Dodge brand is honouring two decades of HEMI®-powered Dodge Durango production with the announcement of two special-edition vehicles: the 2025 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat Silver Bullet and Dodge Durango R/T 20th An-niversary models. Starting with the 2004 model year, the 5.7L HEMI engine was rst of-fered as an option for the Durango, with full production of the HEMI-powered Durango commencing in 2004. The new special-edition vehicles celebrate the potent com-bination of the legendary engine and the Dodge brand’s three-row performance SUV. “The HEMI engine has fueled the Dodge Durango for 20 years, and the supercharged 6.2-litre Hellcat V-8 HEMI engine option transforms the Durango into the most power-ful SUV ever,” said Matt McAlear, Dodge brand CEO – Stellantis. “The Dodge Durango and the HEMI engine form a powerful pair, and with this announcement, Dodge continues to deliver HEMI power to enthusiasts and families alike.”The 2025 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat Silver Bullet It’s a tall order to improve on the Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat — the most powerful SUV ever pops fresh out of the factory ready to move from 0 to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds, covers the quarter-mile in an elapsed time of 11.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 290 kilometres per hour (180 mph). The 2025 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat Silver Bullet — the rst ever special-edition model of a Durango SRT Hellcat — achieves that goal through a combination of exclusive and premium standard features. Available in Triple Nickel exterior colour and in a limited production run, the 2025 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat Silver Bullet is outtted with special appointments that build on a complement of premium stan-dard features for the 2025 Durango SRT Hellcat. Unique content on the Durango SRT Hellcat Silver Bullet special-edition model includes:Satin Black painted hood, featured for the rst time on a DurangoGrey metallic SRT Hellcat badgingSatin Black Dodge taillamp badgeSRT black exhaust tips Red six-piston Brembo brake sys-tem 20-inch by 10-inch “Lights Out” nished wheels Ebony Red Nappa leather seats — featured for the rst time on a Durango SRTSRT Hellcat logo accented with sepia stitch and embroidered on seatbacksPremium wrapped instrument panel and forged carbon bre interior ac-centsSuede steering wheel embellished with silver and sepia accent stitch-ingSuede headlinerDual silver and sepia accent stitch-ing throughout the interiorThe 2025 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat is fueled by the super-charged 6.2-litre HEMI Hellcat V-8 engine, which is paired with a TorqueFlite 8HP95 eight-speed au-tomatic transmission that includes steering-wheel-mounted paddles for manual-style shifting and has seven available Drive modes – Auto, Sport, Track, Snow, Tow, Eco and Valet. Standard SRT Perfor-mance Pages provide information on vehicle performance, including timers, g-force, gauges, engine and dyno readouts. Congurable Drive Modes provide more vehicle control and Race Options allow the driver to activate, deactivate and adjust the rpm values for Launch Control and Shift Light features.On top of its full menu of select content, the Durango SRT Hellcat Silver Bullet is loaded with premium standard features. The driver-oriented cockpit is rened, upscale and high-tech throughout, featur-ing a standard 10.1-inch touch-screen with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless charging, 19-speaker Harmon Kardon sys-tem with an 825-watt amplier, sec-ond row console with armrest and a sunroof — all standard. A suite of standard ADAS features includes Blind-spot Monitoring with Trailer Detect, Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop, Lane Departure Plus and more. The 2025 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat Silver Bullet will be avail-able starting at $152,235 Canadian MSRP plus additional fees).2025 Dodge Durango R/T 20th AnniversaryThe 2025 Dodge Durango R/T 20th Anniversary special-edition vehicle Dodge is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the HEMI.Continued on page 90Spring 2025 - Page 67Scope RV Camping Magazine

take lots of pictures—whether it’s your baby’s rst campre or their giggles during tummy time on a pic-nic blanket. These are the memo-ries you’ll cherish for a lifetime. At the end of the day, RVing with a newborn might seem like a wild idea, but with a little prep and a lot of exibility, it’s totally doable—and totally worth it. Now that you’re (hopefully) feeling inspired, the question is—where do I start? While the thought of preparing and packing may seem overwhelming, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a list of essentials to keep your trip smooth and stress-free. Here’s what to pack and how to prepare for your adventure with your baby.BEFORE YOU LEAVE: HOW TO PREPARE FOR CAMPING WITH A NEWBORNPlan Your Route and StopsMap Out Your Route: Schedule frequent stops for diaper changes, playtime, and a chance for your baby to stretch.Organize Your RVCreate Designated Spaces: As-sign specic spots for baby items, ensuring everything stays orga-nized.Safety First: Baby-proof your RV, secure heavy items, and cover sharp edges just like you would at home.Budget-Friendly TipsMeal Prep and Planning: Prepare and freeze baby meals ahead of time to save money and have healthy options on hand.Buy Second-Hand Gear: From clothing to toys, gently used baby gear can save you money on your trip.Practice RunsSpend Time in the Car: Before your big trip, take smaller drives to get your baby used to the Camping with a baby continuedIf you make plans for your new baby before heading out the baby will no doubt enjoy the adventure. Photos by the author.car. It’ll help you gauge their com-fort and manage expectations for longer journeys.Introduce the RV Early: Spending time playing in the RV before your trip will help familiarize your baby with the new space, making it a comfortable and fun environment.Health PrecautionsSanitizing Supplies: Keep hand sanitizer and baby-safe cleaning products handy, especially for high-touch surfaces.Stay Hydrated: Be sure your baby stays well-hy-drated, especially in warm weather. PACKING CHECKLISTClothing and DiapersWeather-Appropriate Clothing: Pack layers for every possible forecast. From sun hats to cozy jackets, you’ll want to be prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.Diapers and Wipes: Trust us, bring more than you think you’ll need. And if you’re planning to restock mid-trip, make sure stores carry the brand and size your baby uses.Portable Changing Pad: Diaper changes on the go? Easy. A com-pact changing pad will be your best friend.Feeding SuppliesBreastfeeding Essentials: Bring all your daily breastfeeding tools—nursing cover, breast pump, and storage bags. Make sure you’re stocked and ready.Formula/Baby Food: Pack enough formula or baby food to last the trip. Homemade options? Even bet-ter—freeze them ahead of time for convenience and healthiness.Bottles and Sippy Cups: Bring ex-tras. You don’t want to be constantly washing dishes on the road.High Chair or Booster Seat: A foldable seat that takes up minimal space will keep your baby cozy at mealtimes, and give them a front-row seat to the fun.Page 68 - Spring 2025Scope RV Camping MagazineContinued on page 70

Sleeping ArrangementsPortable Crib or Pack ‘n Play: Ensure it ts comfortably in the RV and gets good ventilation.Sleep Sacks or Blankets: Bring age-appropriate sleep options to keep your little one safe and warm.White Noise Machine: For a peaceful night’s sleep, a portable noise machine like the Hatch is perfect for soothing your baby into slumber, no matter where you park.Health and SafetyFirst Aid Kit: Customize your kit with baby-specic items like infant Tylenol and a digital thermometer.Baby Monitor: A portable baby monitor means you can relax out-side while keeping an ear on your little one’s nap.Camping with a baby continuedToys and EntertainmentFavourite Toys: Don’t forget the comfort of familiarity. Pack a few Taking your baby’s favourite toys can make the camping experi-ence more enjoyable for the little one.go-to toys to keep your baby happy.New Toys: Fresh distractions can work wonders. Bring along a couple of new toys to keep their attention and excitement high.Travel GearBaby Carrier or Backpack: For hands-free walks and hikes, these are lifesavers.Stroller: A lightweight stroller makes day trips a breeze.Car Seat: Double-check local laws to ensure you’re following the cor-rect rules for car seat use in an RV.RVing with a baby can be a magi-cal experience when you’re well-prepared. By packing thought-fully, staying exible, and planning ahead, you’ll be ready to create lasting memories with your little adventurer. Happy travels!www.gorving.caScope RV Camping MagazineSpring 2025 - Page 69 Here are some early camping memories and nightmares. As many readers may remem-ber Scope began as a publication for campers in CB radio circles in Canada. Our rst issues were aimed at campers that had both interests and we attended many CB camping events in those early days. Some were very primitive and didn’t event come close to what we refer to today as “dry camping”. I can remember one of those early days campout we attended in Michigan. We arrived late in the evening to a woods where the event was being held. We were greeted by friendly folks who wanted to know what we wanted. Did we need a gopher hole for the sewer and did we want electricity? I was towing a 16 foot Glendale Glendette travel trailer at the time with a 6 cylinder Rambler Ameri-can wagon. No sooner had we parked in what was about as level a spot as we could nd, when two men showed up with a big gas-powered post hole digger to drill a gopher hole for our waste water. The spot they picked was very close to the trailer so I suggested they move a couple of feet away because I had lots of sewer hose and it was a good thing I asked them to move it because while drill-ing the hole they hit a rock or root and the post hole driller thew one man off the handle and the machine jumped to the side. Actually it landed right where the trailer would have been if I had not asked them to move the hole. That would have meant big dam-age to the side of the trailer so it was good that that was avoided. Then it was time for the electrical hookup. The one man asked me for the end of my electric hookup cord and he climbed up a wooden ladder that was leaning on the overhead electrical wires that served the area. He pulled a little home-made adapter out of his pocket and with a big Bowie knife he scraped the insulation off the live electrical wire he was accessing. Wow!. It sparked a bit while he looped his adapter wire around the peeled electrical wire and then pulled it tight. He then plugged my electrical cord into a socket on the end of his Rube Goldberg invention. I must admit I felt a little uneasy using the electricity during that cam-pout but it worked and apparently it was a common procedure for the host club. When it was time to leave he climbed back up the ladder, un-plugged my electric cord and then pulled hard to retrieve his adapter. It did however leave the bared wire the way it was, something I felt very uncomfortable about. I could imagine the next time it rained and rainwater hit that bare spot on the electrical line. Yes camping was different and rugged in those early days.Some early camping memories and nightmares!By Harold Merton

If you’d like to get out of the city without having to go too far, head on over to Chafe’s Landing in picturesque Petty Harbour for delicious fresh seafood (and the family’s secret batter recipe). Outside the capital, your options are endless. On the Bonavista Peninsula, try the Two Whales Coffee Shop or the Bonavista Social Club. Otherwise, head to Fogo and hotel guests can dine at the Fogo Island Inn, an architec-tural wonder built at one of the four corners of the earth. A trip to Labrador isn’t complete without a meal at the Florian Hotel. Scrumptious eats come with a side of panoramic ocean views at the Florian Dining Room — so be sure to keep an eye out for icebergs and whales. For a more exclusive experience, head to their private gazebo. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a guided salmon shing excursion to catch your own supper. Bragging rights never tasted so good. Hungry but not in the mood to dine out? Stop by one of their Farmer’s Markets and get acquainted with the best from local farmers, food artisans, and craftspeople. Make your own culinary master-piece with fresh, locally grown pro-duce, or grab a quick bite of ready-to-eat fare. Endless new avours and specialty foods await when you enjoy the foods of Newfoundland and Labrador.Newfoundland restaurants continuedPage 70 - Spring 2025 Scope RV Camping MagazineA stereotypical view of Newfoundland. Icebergs oat by a pretty coast-al town in Eastern Newfoundland. Newfoundland and Labrador Travel photo. Newfoundland and Labrador has a reputation for being friendly, warm and welcoming, fun loving and funny to the core, the people there are also known for their natural cre-ativity, unique language, and knack for storytelling. Perhaps that’s why Maclean’s Magazine thinks Newfoundland and Labrador has one of the Top 10 Friendliest Cultures in the World! Living out on the edge of North America, their population spent many years isolated from much of the world. They took the heritage of their English, Irish, French, and Indigenous ancestors and created a culture that’s one of a kind. And you can see that expressed not only in the people, but in the rich, colourful environment they created around them. In their archi-tecture, in their crafts, in the names of their towns, and even in the way they built their roads – it’s all a bit off-kilter. Whether describing their connec-tion to the land, their character, their storytelling abilities or their sense of humour, one element shines through – the way they speak. There are more varieties of Eng-lish spoken in Newfoundland and Labrador than anywhere else in the world. Dating back four centuries, the Newfoundland has a reputation of being warm & friendlyaccents are rooted in western Eng-land and southern Ireland. There are also French and Indigenous inuences that have helped shape their colourful language. And since they’re off the beaten path, the multitude of dialects and traditions that have long since evolved in other countries remain preserved in Newfoundland. You see it’s more than just ac-cents! You won’t be surprised to nd that they have their very own dictionary and encyclopaedia. The Dictionary of Newfoundland English was rst published in 1982 and contains hundreds of words and phrases you’ll nd nowhere else.Exploring their Cultural Activities There’s never a shortage of some-thing to do. Newfoundlanders and Labradorians love to have a good time, even if it’s just a crowd playing music in the kitchen.Continued on page 98

Important things to consider before venturing into full-time RVingYou may be working on the road if you venture into full-time RVingLiving in your RV full-time can be a very rewarding experience.Photos courtesy Escapees RV ClubSpring 2025 - Page 71Scope RV Camping MagazineContinued on page 86By Escapees RV Club Preparing for the full-time RVing can be one of the most exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) parts of your life. If you’re in the dreaming or plan-ning phases of launching into the full-timer RV life here are 11 things we think you should know about what it’s really like to live life on the road.1. It Can Cost Less (Or More) Than a “sticks and bricks home”. Full-time RV living can be cost-ef-fective, but expenses vary. Resorts and luxury campgrounds can be pricey, while boondocking offers a nancially freeing, minimal-cost alternative. Staying longer in one place often leads to savings, as many camp-grounds offer discounted weekly or monthly rates. Different preferences mean nding a balance that suits your life and budget.2. Be Prepared To Fix Things Living in an RV can sometimes mean frequent maintenance and Here are 11 best-known things to expect before you take the plungerepairs. From loose screws to full-on malfunctions, living in a home on wheels is bound to present some opportunity for repairs. When your home shakes, rattles, and rolls down the road, things can and will break! Having a basic toolkit and some repair skills is essential. Expect to spend time troubleshooting and xing issues to keep your home on wheels in good shape. Being handy and resourceful can save money and prevent small problems from becoming major headaches.3. You Should Travel Slower Than You Think You’ll Want To In the excitement of an RV life, you might be tempted to move frequently. Many “newbies” set off, intent to explore a new area every week! However, covering a lot of miles quickly can lead to burnout, in your mental state as well as in your pocketbook. Travel days can be exhausting and living full-time in your RV means you can (and should) slow down, relax, and take in the view. Experience new places like a local, not a tourist! You’ll reduce fuel costs, minimize wear and tear on your RV, and

What you need to know if your vehicle is stolen Auto theft is a crisis affecting Canadians nationwide, but it’s felt the most in Ontario. In a reassuring move, the Ontario government is taking signicant steps to combat and prevent auto theft. They’re in-vesting $18 million over three years, a sign of their commitment, as auto theft has increased by 72% from 2014 to 20211,2. Every 14 minutes, a vehicle is stolen in Ontario. Auto theft isn’t just a personal loss; it hurts everyone – when thieves steal, we all pay. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of insuring your vehicle against theft and the steps you can take to help keep your vehicle safe.What does insurance cover if my vehicle is stolen? If you have the proper insurance, it will cover a stolen vehicle. Protec-tion against auto theft isn’t typically included in a basic auto insurance policy. However, with additional optional coverage, you’ll be covered if your vehicle is stolen. You can enhance your protection by adding any of these endorse-ments:•Comprehensive•All-risk (All-perils)•Specied PerilsThese types of endorsements can help:•Replace a stolen vehicle•Replace parts that are stolen or damaged•Repair damages to your vehicle from a theft or break-inWhat do I do if my vehicle is stolen? Be sure your vehicle is stolen!Before assuming the worst, conrm that your vehicle has indeed been stolen. Consider alternative sce-narios: could it have been towed or lent to someone? Contact the police. Call your local police to begin the investiga-tion process. You’ll be expected to describe your vehicle, including the make, model, licence plate, and VIN, and provide a detailed account of the incident. Remember to notify the police of technology that may help them track your vehicle, such as a telematics device or a Tag Tracking and Recovery System.Contact your insurance company. Once you’ve submitted a police re-port, call your insurance represen-tative. This will protect you if your vehicle is used to cause harm or commit a crime. Provide them with as much information as possible, including items inside the vehicle during the incident.How does auto theft impact my auto insurance? Auto theft can impact how much you pay for auto insurance. It costs drivers, insurance companies, and the government millions annually. Many factors are considered, such as:Where you live: Larger cities such as Toronto, Mississauga, and Ottawa are known to be costly for auto theft claims.. You can expect a higher premium if you live in a city with a higher number of auto thefts.The vehicle you drive: Vehicles that are common targets for theft cost more to insure. Équité Asso-ciation releases a list of Canada’s top 10 most stolen vehicles each year.https://www.equiteassociation.com/top-10-most-stolen-vehicles How do I keep my vehicle safe?The best offence is a good defence. The Insurance Bureau of Canada encourages a layered approach to protection.:Layer 1: The simple, common-sense steps Keep doors locked at all timesNever leave keys in the ignition or start your vehicle remotelyEnsure windows are closedPark in a well-lit areaPark in a secure garage if possibleLayer 2: Install visible or audible anti-theft devicesLayer 3: Install a vehicle immobi-lizerLayer 4: Invest in a tracking system Remember to speak with your insurance broker before installing aftermarket technologies and check with your dealership before install-ing a tracking system (to ensure it doesn’t affect your vehicle’s war-ranty).Story courtesy equiteassociation.com The U.S. National Fire Protection Agency estimates that nearly 2,000 RV res occur annually. What can RVers do to avoid falling victim to a re? First, be prepared. Don’t assume it won’t happen to you. Make sure you have working smoke alarms on board the RV, and if you’re adding one, check that it’s approved for RV use. You should also have a carbon monoxide alarm on board, as well as a propane detector if your RV is equipped with propane appliances. Another must-have are re extin-guishers capable of helping to put out a decent-size re. The extinguishers that come with new RVs often are too small to do much good. And it’s best to have more than one. Place an extinguisher near the exit, in the bedroom, in the galley, and in an un-locked outside storage compartment. It’s also a good idea to keep one in your towed/towing vehicle. Scope has also done stories on the new re blankets that you toss over a cooking re to smother it. These can be very useful as well but should not be the only source of re extinguish-ing in your RV. Your personal safety and that of your family is the priority. So, it may be wise to just evacuate and call for help versus trying to ght the re yourself. The U.S. National Park Service offers this list of ideas for preventing and surviving an RV re. SURVIVING AN RV FIREScope RV Camping MagazinePage 72 - Spring 2025

Spring 2025 - Page 73Scope RV Camping MagazineHitch n Go RV is a trailer dealership located in southern Ontario we sell new and used RV's as well as offering after sales parts and services. We sell 5th Wheels, Travel Trailers, Park Models, Toy Haulers, parts and accessories plus provide expert service and trailer repairs with licensed technicians. Hitch n' Go RV are dealers for Redwood RV, Crossroads RV, Dutch-man RV, Keystone RV and Forest River. We have the lowest cash price, including PDI, of any dealer in North America. Due to our close proximity to the factory there is no charge for Freight. Our staff is friendly and knowledgeable with over 30 years of experience in the RV indus-try. We stand behind our inventory 100%. You'll find that our staff are fellow RV'ers with a real passion for helping other RV enthusiasts. For the past 30 years we have lived in 5th wheel recreational vehicles and this experience gives us a unique perspective on the needs of RV'ers. It is concept that is not wide spread in the RV industry… "RV'ers selling RV's to other RV'ers". www.hitchngorv.com PH: 519-582-1843

Keeping rodents out of your RV There’s something amazing about a long trip in an RV, disconnected from chores like cutting the grass or other day-to-day hassles of life. Nothing can spoil that faster than nding out there are rodents in your RV. You’ll not likely notice them out-right but rather through the drop-pings they leave around cabinets or little chew marks on packages, often rodent damage is not covered under your insurance either. Keeping rodents out of your RV is a priority for sanitary reasons as well as overall peace of mind.How do you do that? Here are some helpful steps you can take right now. Start with Preventative Measures A few simple things you can do around your RV before, during, and after your trips can minimize the risk of rodents getting into your RV.Keeping your RV clean: This is a big one. Mice are incred-ible at pinpointing a food source, and they don’t need much to make the decision to move into your RV. Crumbs, leftover food, and opened packages of dry goods will bring them in. It’s best to store food in sealed containers and clean up crumbs as quickly as possible. Seal up the RV: Work your way around the interior and exterior of your RV to seal off any possible entrance point. Look for small problems, like cracks in connection points or holes in the ooring. Always use a ashlight to check the back of cabinets for holes or damage.Store your RV on concrete: If you have the option to store your RV on a concrete pad, that seems to help reduce rodent trafc, as does avoiding long-term storage in heavily wooded areas. Add some scents to your RV: Some scents can deter rodents. Placing peppermint oil, cloves, or cayenne pepper in areas around your RV, especially outside, can make it less appealing to some rodents.Be careful using traps and bait systems. These often work by luring rodents into them with what seems to be a good food source. They take that back to their nests, where they end up dieing. You’re never going to eradicate all of the rodents around your RV’s exterior. So, these bait traps simply encourage them to come in to ex-plore your RV instead.What to Do When You Already Have Rodents in Your RV The rst thing to know is that it’s not uncommon for rodents to make their way into RVs. They are warm places free from predators that are often untouched by humans for long periods of time. Still, you don’t want them there. Here are some strategies for keeping rodents out of your RV after they’ve made their way in. Do a deep clean. That means removing everything, sanitizing surfaces using bleach or another cleaning agent, and really scrubbing down the appliances, plumbing, and all other surfaces. Don’t forget the oor, ceiling, and walls.Consider trapping them. If you are planning to move your RV, use humane traps to capture the rodents and then move them to a different location, such as a wooded area a few miles away.You can also turn to a professional: If there is a signicant infestation, have a professional exterminator come to your home as a rst step. They will investigate the scale of the problem and then offer recom-mendations to remove them safely without risk to your health and well-being. Then, deep clean. Note that rodents are scavengers who need to eat on a constant basis in order to live and reproduce. If your RV is stripped clean of any food source, it will no longer be desirable to them. Often, they will move on to other locations where they can nd food sources.Using lights, keeping a cat around the area, and applying scented products, as mentioned earlier, can also help to discourage them from staying in your RV. The last thing you want is for nests to occur, and the best way to keep that at bay is to make your RV less desirable.Story courtesy Orbit InsuranceEditor’s Note:We have found that Irish Spring bar soap makes a very good deterrent. Take a knife and cut shavings off, then spread them around the RV. They apparently do not like the smell of this product!Page 74 - Spring 2025 Scope RV Camping MagazineColourful Newfoundland boatsNEWFOUNDLAND SCENE

Check your home insurance for water damage coverage limits. Many now just $25,000By Harold Merton Once in a while reality comes around and bites you in the back-side! The key of course is to know what is happening even in these busy days. I unfortunately had a reality check recently when for the rst time while living in Courtright, Ontario we had a basement ood. In the twelve plus years I have lived here I have never had a drop of water in the basement. When the house was built I had two large sump pumps installed, one on each side of the basement, to handle any inux of water. We had had a major ood when in London due to a road contractor severing the storm sewer lines in front of our home. They cut off the exit of the storm water to the mu-nicipal drain and all the storm water that came along the pipes down our side of the street had nowhere to go except up our oor drain pipe and into our basement. We had several inches of water there for over three weeks be-cause every time it rained the water poured in. My wife and I got very little sleep because with the help of family members we were pumping water out nearly 24 hours of every day. I learned then what a chore it was to ght with an insurance company over damages, ght in court against the idiots that caused the damage and we had to eventually sue our own insurance company to recover a large part of the damage money. One thing I will recommend to every home owner is to check your insurance policy for cover-age for water damage. Make cure it is at least $100,000 because cleaning up from a ood is costly! It appears that about ten years ago the insurance companies got together and decided to limit cover-age to about $25,000 -$30,000 for water damage unless you have added additional coverage. I had extensive coverage before. Our London ood caused over $200,000 damage and I have always purchased “replacement value” insurance on my contents. Why? Because if you don’t the insurance company comes in with depreciation on all the items you lost and that does nothing but cause great friction. What you consider to be the value of something destroyed is a lot different than what the insurance company can get away with. Let’s say you have a telephone that you paid $100 plus tax for. You’ve had it three years and it is destroyed by a ood. Under normal circumstances the insurance company will want you to nd the bill and then they will decide that your $100 phone is now worth less than $50. You’ve got to replace the phone and now it costs $140 plus HST. You have just lost big time! However if you have replace-ment value insurance you go out and buy a new phone exactly the same. It costs you $140 plus $18 and change for tax. That phone now costs you nearly $160. With replacement value you get your $160 although you have to go to all the work of going out and nd-ing the phone, buying it and then submitting the bill to your insurance company. There’s quite a difference in the $50 they were going to allow you and the $160 it is really worth (because that is what it cost you to replace it). In my recent ood due to very heavy rains the water coming to my sump pumps overwhelmed them and the water overowed the sumps and lled the basement oor with about 3 1/2” of water. Now there was no damage to the building because the basement is just concrete but everything in the basement was at the mercy of the water. Because we had never had any water in the basement I guess I was complacent and not everything was stored on skids. Anything sitting on the oor in-cluding very hard cardboard ling cabinets took the hit, they collapsed dumping the contents into the water! I needed to have may insurance company hire a disaster cleanup company to remove the wet stuff. It was only at this time I learned I was limited to $25,000 in coverage due to the changes that I was not a ware of. Now these disaster companies are appropriately named. Dealing with them is a “disaster”. Can you believe that a crew of ve people for seven hours resulted in a charge of about $14,000 includ-ing tax. I gured it out and at $200 an hour per person plus, plus there are still thousands of dollars unac-counted for. On top of everything else they dropped one of my iMac computers smashing it. It had been working ne but now there’s another mess to ght about! Apparently the insurance compa-nies made an agreement with the disaster cleanup people’s organiza-tion for set line rates for everything. Do this = this $$. How in the world the insurance companies ever caved to this type of extortion is beyond me. The end result is they wanted the whole $25,000 to clean the base-men leaving me with nothing to pay for the contents destroyed. The supervisor agreed to remove all wet material, wash the oor and spray for mould deterrent in one Continued on page 76Scope RV Camping MagazineSpring 2025 - Page 75

day’s work. They notied me that they would do that and leave at 5 p.m. At 4:10 p.m. I went to check on them and they were gone! There was still wet material in the basement but that was it! Gone! Abandoned their work! Aban-doned their agreement with me! Their excuse explained to the insurance adjuster later was “their trailer was full!”. They charged for two loads of damaged material taken to the dump but when we viewed the foot-age from three TV security cameras watching the front of our house, the trailer never moved from it’s spot in front of my house during the entire day! It is difcult for me to gure out how they took two loads to the dump when the trailer never moved during the entire day they were here! Nobody needs this aggravation! Make sure your homeowners water damage coverage is way more than the standard $25,000 or $30,000 even if you live in a desert, because if you have a claim the disaster cleanup people will want a really big piece of the insurance pie! I immediately upped my water damage coverage in case of future events but it won’t help me this time! I suppose the moral of this story is to always read your entire insur-ance policy details very carefully when it comes in for renewal each year. They do make changes and unfortunately sometimes do not make you aware of it! Hopefully an insurance agent who is looking out for your well being would verbally make you aware of limitations like this but sometimes they might not! The result is after waiting nearly six weeks for them to replace the computer or even talk to me about it I have had to launch legal action against them. Ironically on the Friday that I led the paperwork for the suit, two Check your home owner’s insurance for water damage coverage continuedhours later they nally contacted me wanting to solve the problem with a load of crap about the com-puter had not been used for several years. Computer experts tell me the only recording of dates on a computer is when you visit an internet website. As this computer was never used for the internet (only used to as-semble the pages of Scope) I would have never logged into a website creating a history item. I did buy this computer from the original owner and perhaps the his-tory is theirs. I have other comput-ers for internet use. Desperation on their part brought out the worst of them. I put out feelers into the commu-nity. “Anybody have problems with this company? Surprisingly I was contacted by another party who had had the same dubious ethics and when they were approached by the disaster company after the insur-ance company questioned their ethics they were told “What differ-ence does it matter to you it’s the insurance company paying!” Wow! What an answer! That home owner had them pulled off the job and another company nished the cleanup but they were astonished telling them “that every time false charges are made it hurts the insurance companies and that’s why insurance rates go up!” If you have a ood you do not need the nonsense like this! Yes your insurance company will pay the disaster companies but at least you don’t have to get involved. I only had to because I was limited to $25,000 coverage and needed some of the funds to re-place destroyed items. We learn by experience! I pass it on so you might not have to endure the same nonsense!Page 76 - Spring 2025Scope RV Camping MagazineA T-Bone for JohnJohn Williams of the Michigan Aqua-Jets chapter of FCRV poses with the lovely T-Bone his wife Joyce presented him for supper one night. Joyce asked him what he would like and he replied “A T-bone”. John and Joyce are well known to Canadian FCRV camp-ers as they have attended many campouts in Canada.A bald eagle comes in for a land-ing in Newfoundland.

RECIPESTomato TartThe fresh taste of this stunning-looking tomato tart is highlighted with Ontario feta and dill. Bonus points: you’ll save time by using store-bought frozen pastry.Preparation Time: 20 minutesCooking Time: 6 minutesBaking Time: 45 to 50 minutesStanding Time: 15 minutesServes 61 box (320 g) frozen 9-inch (23 cm) pie shells (2 shells)1-1/2 tsp (7 mL) each butter and olive oil1 Ontario Onion, very thinly sliced1/4 tsp (1 mL) saltFreshly ground black pepper, to taste1 Ontario Plum Tomato, thinly sliced2 Ontario Eggs1 cup (250 mL) 18% Ontario Table Cream2 tbsp (25 mL) grainy Dijon mustard1 cup (250 mL) multicolour Ontario Grape and/or Cherry Tomatoes, cut in half or quartered, if large2 tbsp (25 mL) coarsely chopped fresh Ontario Dill1/2 cup (125 mL) coarsely crumbled Ontario Feta CheeseThaw pastry according to package directions. Remove pastry shells from tins. Place on lightly oured surface; stack and press pastry together. Roll into circle about 11 inches (28 cm) in diameter. Fit into 9-inch (23 cm) tart pan with removeable bottom, pressing into base and sides of pan. Trim, leav-ing about 1/4-inch (5 mm) pastry above rim of pan. Patch any cracks with excess pastry. Using fork, prick base all over. Reserve excess dough to patch baked pastry if needed. Freeze pastry in pan while oven preheats, for 10 to 15 minutes.Place tart pan on baking sheet. Bake in 400°F (200°C) oven for 13 to 15 minutes, until base is golden. Patch any cracks, if necessary, with reserved pastry. Reduce oven tem-perature to 350°F (180°C). Let crust cool to room temperature.Meanwhile, in medium skillet, melt butter with oil over medium heat. Cook onion, stirring, for 3 minutes. Stir in salt and pepper; reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasional-ly, for 3 minutes or until light golden brown. Let cool slightly. Scatter over pastry crust. Arrange plum tomato slices over top.In medium bowl, whisk together eggs, cream and mustard until well blended. Slowly pour over lling. Scatter in grape tomatoes, dill and feta. Sprinkle pepper to taste over top.Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until cus-tard is set. Let stand for at least 15 minutes before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.Tip: Using store-bought pastry saves a lot of time; however, you can use homemade pastry; use a recipe for a double-crust 9-inch (23 cm pie).Nutritional Information:1 ServingPROTEIN: 7 gramsFAT: 25 gramsCARBOHYDRATE: 25 gramsCALORIES: 361FIBRE: 1 gramSODIUM: 385 mgTwo Potato BoxtyHere’s a geat breakfast recipe - delicious boxty (potato pancakes) made with a combination of pota-toes and sweet potatoes. Serve with a poached egg and a side of crisp bacon or with soup or stew.Preparation Time: 10 minutesCooking Time: 15 minutesServes 4 (Makes 8)1/2 cup (125 mL) all-purpose our1 tsp (1 mL) baking powder1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt1/4 tsp (1 mL) pepper1 cup (250 mL) shredded Ontario Sweet Potato1 cup (250 mL) mashed cooked Ontario Potatoes*2 tbsp (25 mL) chopped fresh Ontario Parsley1/2 cup (125 mL) Ontario Buttermilk1 Ontario Egg, beaten1 tbsp (15 mL) vegetable oil (approx.)In small bowl, combine our, baking powder, salt and pepper.In large bowl, combine sweet po-tato, mashed potatoes and parsley. Add dry ingredients, buttermilk and egg; stir just until moistened.In large nonstick skillet, heat 1 tbsp (15 mL) oil over medium heat. Us-ing 1/4 cup (50 mL) potato mixture for each boxty, spoon into skillet and press gently to 4-inch (10 cm) pancake. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes or until bottoms are golden. Turn and cook 2 to 3 minutes or until golden, adding more oil as needed. Repeat with remaining mixture, adding more oil if needed and adjusting heat as necessary to prevent burn-ing.*Mashed Potatoes: In pot of boil-ing lightly salted water, cook 2 to 3 (about 12 oz/375 g) peeled Ontario Potatoes until fork-tender. Drain and mash with potato masher until no lumps are visible. Measure 1 cup Continued on page 78Spring 2025 - Page 77Scope RV Camping Magazine

(250 mL) for recipe.Nutritional Information:1 Serving (2 boxty):PROTEIN: 7 gramsFAT: 6 gramsCARBOHYDRATE: 37 gramsCALORIES: 226FIBRE: 3 gramsSODIUM: 420Page 78 - Spring 2025Scope RV Camping MagazineTWO POTATO BOXTY CONTINUEDMarine Atlantic took delivery of new ship - Ala’suina In February of 2024 Marine Atlantic took delivery of its newest vessel, the Ala’suinu. The vessel arrived at Marine Atlantic’s facilities in April. The Ala’suinu (pronounced Ah-laa-sue-in-ou), is a name that means “Traveller” in Mi’kmaq. The eagerly awaited vessel fur-ther builds upon Marine Atlantic’s commitment to the environment by reducing carbon emissions using battery power to complement the vessel’s efcient engine design. The new ship will also introduce measures to decrease underwa-ter noise, reducing the impact on marine life. The vessel incorporates the latest Canadian accessibility standards and provides customers with a variety of amenities such as 146 passenger cabins (including 31 pet friendly cabins), 40 passenger pods, a variety of food service op-tions, seating lounges, a children’s play area, and a kennel for pets. The vessel will primarily oper-ate on the Argentia service in the summer of 2024, connecting cus-tomers between Cape Breton and eastern Newfoundland, and oper-ate between Port aux Basques and North Sydney during the fall, winter, and spring periods. Marine Atlantic’s new ship Ala’suina is now taking passen-gers from Nova Scotia to New-foundland.longer have to pay thousands of dollars for printing an issue and thousands of dollar for postage to mail it out. It is all done on the computer and internet these day and so our expenses are dramatically reduced from those early days. When we went exclusively to an internet publication we were able to reduce our advertising rates by 65% and every time someone opens Scope on the internet now we get an email telling us where they are lo-cated. I use several MacIntosh com-puters to write, process photo-graphs and assemble the pages of Scope. After the stories are written and the pictures sized, I use a pro-gram called Adobe In Design to assemble everything into the pages that make up the publica-tion. In August I had a ood and when the insurance company sent a disaster cleanup com-pany they actually dropped and smashed the one computer that has the InDesign program on it. The computer program company no longer sells the program but rather rents it on a monthly basis so I have to use a computer with a processor and system that will operate the program. Unfortunately the culprits, Bluewater DKI of Sarnia, Ontario were not good enough to replace the computer they smashed and the insurance company would not pay to re-place it because it was not dam-aged in the ood. They sent it to a non-Apple repair depot and offered to replace the screen but stated “that the computer would not operate!” A lot of good that would be. I gave them deadline after deadline to replace the computer but they ignored my requests for nearly six weeks. I nally led a lawsuit against them to try and get them to live up to their responsibility. I had to buy a new computer and now subscribe on a monthly basis for the software that I origi-nally paid about $2,000 for. Even though this company knew I needed the computer to produce this issue (it is used twice a year - once for each is-sue to assemble the pages) they jerked me around for weeks. Ironically the day I led the lawsuit, they nally replied to me two hours later. Of course they had not idea what had just transpired. They have a multitude of excuses including the computer had not been used for years - I wonder how I assembled the latest issues if the computer was not used. I expect they will pay EDITORIAL PAGE - 60 YEARS OF PUBLICATION continued Continued on page 99

SHEPHERD’S PIEPrep 15 minCook 45 minReady in 60 minThis classic casserole willl warm you up and put a smile on your face! The whole family will love it!ITALIAN CHICKEN WITH ROASTED TOMATOESINGREDIENTS3 tbsp (45 mL) fresh lemon juice8 garlic cloves, sliced¼ cup (60 mL) olive oil1 tbsp (15 mL) plus 1 tsp (5 mL) Italian Seasoning Mix½ tsp (2 mL) salt6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (5-6 oz/150–175 g each)4 cups (1 L) grape tomatoes (about 2 containers)¾ cup (175 mL) Italian-seasoned croutons, crushed2 tbsp (30 mL) butterRAVIOLI LASAGNAPrep 10 minReady in 60 minThink lasagnas a chore? This reci-pe makes it easy by layering frozen ravioli instead of noodles! You’ll love how quickly it comes together and it only costs about $4 per serving!BUTTERNUT SQUASH & APPLE STUFFING This is a savoury and sweet stuff-ing without all of the fat and calories of a traditional recipe.INGREDIENTS2 lbs. (1 kg) russet potatoes, peeled and diced1 cup (250 mL) warm milk2 tbsp (30 mL) buttersalt and pepper, to taste1 tbsp (15 mL) oil1 onion, peeled and diced2 carrots, peeled and diced2 lbs. (1 kg) ground beef1 cup (250 mL) frozen peas2 tbsp (30 mL) tomato paste1 tspn (15 mL) our1/2 cup (125 mL) red wine1/3 cup (75 mL) vegetable or beef broth2 tbsp (30 mL) Worcestershire sauce1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt1/2 tsp (2 mL) black pepper1/2 tsp (2 mL) dried thyme4 oz. (125 g) cheddar cheese, grated (1 cup/250 mL)DIRECTIONSPreheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).Add the potatoes to a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then simmer until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain, Some great recipes from Pampered ChefINGREDIENTSRavioli1 jar (32 . oz./946 mL) pasta sauce1 can (15.5 oz./411 g) petite diced tomatoes, undrained2 tsp (10 mL) Italian seasoningDIRECTIONSPreheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Add the lemon juice, garlic, oil, sea-soning, and salt to the Stone Rect-angular Baker; stir until combined.Place the chicken into the baker. Arrange the tomatoes around the chicken. Sprinkle the croutons evenly over the chicken.Bake, uncovered, until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), 30–35 minutes. Remove the chicken from baker and it keep warm.Add the butter to the baker. Using the Salad Chopper, carefully chop the tomatoes into coarse pieces. Return the chicken to the baker and serve.Yield: 6 servingsNutrients per serving:INGREDIENTS1 medium butternut squash (about Recipes courtesy Pampered Chef. For information on Pampered Chef products in Canada visit: www.pamperedchef.ca/pws/kathyjknightContinued on page 80Continued on page 81Continued on page 81Continued on page 80Spring 2025 - Page 79Scope RV Camping Magazine

1 pkg (16 oz./450 g) frozen spinach, thawed and rmly squeezed dry16 oz. (450 g) mozzarella cheese,coarsely grated (4 cups/1 L) Garlic Twists1 pkg (13.8 oz./391 g) pizza dough2 tbsp (30 mL) butter1 tbsp (15 mL) Garlic Parmesan SeasoningDIRECTIONSPreheat the oven to 400°F (200°C)To make the sauce, combine the pasta sauce, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning in a large micro-wave-safe bowl. Microwave, cov-ered, for 5 minutes, stirring halfway through.Spoon a third of the sauce into the bottom of the Stone Rectangular Baker. Place a third of the ravioli over the sauce in a single layer. Crumble half of the spinach over the raviolis. Top the spinach with a third of the cheese. Repeat.Place the nal layer of raviolis over the top of the cheese. Spread the remaining sauce over the ravioli and top with the remaining cheese. Bake, uncovered, for 45 minutes.Meanwhile, unroll the pizza dough and cut into 8 equal strips. Fold the strips in half and twist into 6” (15-cm) sticks. Place on the Stone Serving Tray. Microwave the butter in a small microwave- safe bowl for 30–45 seconds, or until melted. Stir in the seasoning. Brush each twist with the butter. With 15 minutes of cooking time remaining, place the tray on top of the baker. Bake until the garlic twists are cooked through and browned, about 15 minutes, ipping halfway through.Remove the baker from the oven. Let the lasagna rest, with the tray on top, for 10 minutes.Yield: 12 servingsNutrients per serving:U.S. nutrients per serving: Calories 440, Total Fat 14 g, Saturated Fat 7 g, Cholesterol 50 mg, Sodium 1,200 mg, Carbohydrate 58 g, Fiber 1 g, Sugars 10 g (includes 2 g added sugar), Protein 21 gCook’s Tips:Using refrigerated ravioli cuts down the cooking time. Follow the instruc-tions and in step 4, cook for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal tem-perature reaches 165°F (74°C). Wrap your leftovers in foil and freeze. After thawing in the refrig-erator, bake, covered, at 350°F (280°C) for 25–35 minutes, then uncovered for 10 minutes. Want to add even more avor? Try using meat- or spinach-lled ravioli instead of cheese. Ravioli 1 jar (32 . oz./946 mL) pasta sauce 1 can (15.5 oz./411 g) petite dicedPampered Chef recipes continued2½ lbs–3 lbs / 750 g–1 kg)3 Granny Smith apples, cored½ cup (125 mL) butter, softened (1 stick)2 medium onions, nely chopped (about 2 cups / 500 mL)5 stalks celery, nely chopped (about 2 cups / 500 mL)1 tbsp (15 mL) fresh sage, nely chopped1 tbsp (15 mL) fresh thyme, nely chopped3 cups (750 mL) low–sodium chicken, turkey, or vegetable stock2 eggs¼ cup (50 mL) fresh parsley, chopped16 cups (4 L) ½” (1 cm) day–old, cubed French or Italian white bread (16 oz / 454 g loaf)½ cup (125 mL) pomegranate seeds (optional)DIRECTIONS Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the neck of the butternut squash from the body, reserving the body for another use. Peel the neck and spiralize with the ribbon blade (not comb blade) of the Veggie Spiralizer. Then spiralize the cored apple. Melt the butter in a 12” (30 cm) skilletover medium heat. Add the onions, celery, sage, and thyme and cook for 3 minutes. Add in the but-ternut squash and apple. Cook and stir occasionally for 5–7 minutes or until softened. Add the broth, bring to a simmer, then remove from the heat. Beat the eggs in a large mixing bowland add the chopped parsley. Stir in the cubed bread and the broth mixture. Transfer the mixture to a buttered Stone Rectangular Baker. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Butternut Squash continued Uncover and bake for 15–20 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Top with pomegranate seeds, if desired.Yield: 16 servings of (¾ cup/175 mL each) Nutrients per serving:U.S. Nutrients per serving (¾ cup / 175 mL): Calories 190, Total Fat 7 g, Saturated Fat 4 g, Cholesterol 40 mg, Sodium 330 mg, Carbohydrate 29 g, Fiber 3 g, Sugar 7 g, Protein 6 gCook’s Tips:If your bread is fresh, cut bread into ½” (1 cm) cubes to make 16 cups (4 L). Spread the cubes out onto 1–2 baking sheets and dry in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 15–20 minutes. The bread cubes can be made 2–3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container or in a resealable plastic bag.Ravioli LasagnacontinuedPage 80 - Spring 2025Scope RV Camping MagazineRecipes courtesy Pampered Chef. For information on Pampered Chef products in Canada visit: www.pamperedchef.ca/pws/kathyjknight

Shepherds Pie continuedto the Deluxe Stand Mixer. Select BEAT and adjust the time to 1 min-ute. Press START. (or mash using a hand mixer). Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes. Add the onion and carrot, and cook until the onion is translu-cent, about 6–7 minutes. Add the beef and cook until it’s no longer pink, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Add the peas, tomato paste, and our; stir to combine. Pampered Chef recipes continuedRecipes courtesy Pampered Chef. For information on Pampered Chef products in Canada visit: www.pamperedchef.ca/pws/kathyjknightSpring 2025 - Page 81Scope RV Camping MagazineItalian Chicken with Roased Tomatoes continuedNutrients per serving: U.S. Nutrients per serving: Calories 300, Total Fat 17 g, Saturated Fat 5 g, Cholesterol 85 mg, Sodium 350 mg, Carbohydrate 8 g, Fiber 2 g, Protein 28 g, Sugars 2g (Includes 0g Added Sugars) Deglaze the skillet with the red wine and broth. Add the Worces-tershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme; stir. Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove it from the heat. Add the ground meat mixture to the Stone Rectangular Baker and cover with the mashed potatoes. Sprinkle with the cheddar cheese. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.Yield: 8 servingsNutrients per serving:US Nutrionals per serving: Calories 450, Total Fat 22 g, Saturated Fat 10 g, Cholesterol 100 mg, Sodium 430 mg, Carbohydrate 30 g, Fiber 2 g, Sugars 5 g (includes 0 g added sugar), Protein 31 gNewfoundland’s Western Brook Pond fjord in Gros Morne National Park is quite a hike but worth the effort 45 minutes from the parking lotVisitors enjoy a boat tour of Wetern Brook Pond fjord in Gros Morne National Park. Photo courtesy Newfoundland and Labrador Travel. Whenever someone sees a photo of the enigmatic and awe-inspiring Western Brook Pond fjord, people ask “how can I get my picture taken here – at this fantastic location?” The truth of the matter is that it is not a simple process to reach this point – there is no road hiding behind the cameraperson with a busload of tourists waiting for their turn to jump in place and take the coveted picture. To get to this location involves a hike that requires a moderate-to-high level of tness. For many people, it will be one of the most challenging, and most rewarding, experiences of their lifetime. However, as Clem Reid, hiking guide with BonTours points out, “the fact that you can get there, the fact that it’s tough to get there, and the fact that not everyone is willing to go there is what makes it spe-cial.”Western Brook Pond, Gros Morne National Park Of course, it is not necessary to partake in this hike to enjoy the maj-esty of the Western Brook Pond fjord. A 45-minute walk will take you to stunning vistas and a dock where you can step on board a tour boat for a two-hour trip through the fjord, which offers equally as stun-ning views. However, for the more advanced adventurer, there are a few options to hike up the eastern Continued on page 94

By Chicken Farmers of Canada Bacteria are everywhere, and while most are harmless or even benecial to humans, others can make you sick. All foods, including meat, fruits, and vegetables have the potential to cause food-borne illness. The unfortunate truth is that most North American homes don’t exer-cise good food safety practices at home and over 80% of all cases of food-borne illness can be prevented by handing food properly. The re-sponsibility for safe food falls on ev-eryone in the food system. We are committed to continually improving our farming and production prac-tices, while continuing to provide Canadians with a stable, safe food supply. At home, safeguarding the health of yourself and your family is easy to do. Just follow these few tips for keeping food-borne illness at bay.Clean Proper cleaning practices are the most effective way to keep bacte-ria out of the kitchen. Follow these rules at home and teach them to your family so that everyone in the house can stay clear of food-borne illness.Wash your hands. Always wash your hands for at least 20 seconds before handling food and after handing meat, poultry, eggs and seafood. Always be sure to wash your hands after touching pets or using the wash-room.Clean your work area. Clean and sanitize counter tops, cutting boards and utensils with a mild bleach solution (5 mL or 1 tsp. of bleach per 750 mL or 3 cups of water), before and after food prepa-ration.Wash your produce. Thoroughly wash fresh produce under running Chicken and Food Safety: An Easy Guidewater to remove dirt and residue. Some produce tends to retain more dirt than others, so be sure to check it carefully to avoid grit in your food.Cut away bruised areas. Bruised areas on produce can give bacteria an environment to thrive. Cut away damaged areas of fruit and veg-etables before using.Wash out lunchboxes every night. Lunch boxes and bags can incubate bacteria if not kept clean. Wash them out every night to prevent con-taminating lunches.Remember, you can’t see, smell or taste bacteria, so keep your kitchen clean to keep it safe.Separate Improper handling of raw meat, poultry, and seafood can result in cross-contamination, causing bacteria to spread from food to food or to other surfaces. That’s why it’s important to separate raw meat, poultry, and seafood both in your cart and in your refrigerator.Use two cutting boards. If possible, use one cutting board for produce and one for meat. If you’re cooking more than one protein at a time, keep them sepa-rate and wash your cutting board thoroughly in between preparing the two. Plastic cutting boards can be safely sanitized in the dishwasher.Seal raw meat. Keep raw meat, poultry, and sh in a sealed con-tainer on the bottom shelf of your refrigerator to prevent juices from dripping onto other food.Keep your plates clean. Never place cooked food back onto the same plate or cutting board that previously held raw food.Discard used marinades. Liquids used to marinade raw meat, poultry, or seafood should not be used on cooked foods. If you want to baste your meat while cooking, or use it as a sauce, reserve some marinade at the beginning and make sure it does not come in contact with raw product.ChillChilling raw food goes without say-ing but improper thawing or waiting too long to get food into the refriger-ator can result in bacteria growth in food. Follow these simple steps in your home to keep bacteria at bay.Refrigerate or freeze within two hours. It’s important that raw food, espe-cially meat, poultry, and seafood, is refrigerated promptly. To make sure you get it into the fridge in time, try to make groceries your last stop when you’re running errands if possible and always pick up your meat last. To really preserve raw food, especially on hot days in the car, bring an insulated bag with a Food handling safety is very important when preparing chicken.Continued on page 83Scope RV Camping MagazinePage 82 - Spring 2025

freezer pack inside so that you can chill it instantly.Never defrost at room temperature. Always defrost food in your fridge, in your microwave, or in cold water to prevent bacteria growth. If you’re thawing in cold water, be sure to replace the water every 30 minutes.Separate large leftovers. Store your large leftover batches in small, shallow containers for quicker cooling in the refrigerator, or for quicker thawing if you’re storing them in the freezer.Freeze it properly. When you freeze chicken, be sure to take the proper steps to avoid freezer burn. Chill individual pieces in the freezer, then wrap each of them in plastic wrap. Place the individually wrapped pieces in a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. This will not only improve the taste of the thawed chicken but will make it easier to thaw individual pieces as needed.Keep an eye on the date. It’s important to know when an ingredient went into your fridge or freezer so that you know when it has to come out. Fresh chicken can be kept in the refrigerator for 2 – 3 days, and ground chicken should be used within one day. In the freezer, chicken pieces can be kept frozen for up to six months without sacric-ing quality and a whole chicken for up to a year.If you’re ever in doubt as to whether an ingredient is good or not, the saf-est bet is to throw it out.Cook Cooking times vary for all meat, but chicken should always be cooked to an internal temperature of 165ºF for chicken pieces and pat-ties, and 180°F for a whole chicken. If you’re stuck without a thermom-eter, pierce the chicken with a fork. It should go in with ease and the juices should run clear. The chicken should show no pink when cut with a knife.Keep it hot. When you’re serving food buffet-style, always be sure to keep it hot (at 60ºC or 140ºF) using a chang dish, crock pot, or warming tray. Keep all soups, chili, and hot dips piping hot before serving.Use a food thermometer. You can’t tell if meat is cooked through simply by looking at it and the most reliable way to avoid un-der- or over-cooking your chicken is with a digital instant-read thermom-eter. Insert the thermometer in dif-ferent spots to ensure even cooking and always be sure to wash your food thermometer with soap and water before using it again.Insulate when traveling. If you’re taking a hot dish to a party or to work, be sure to keep it hot until the moment you leave and then ensure that it stays that way by carrying it in an insulated thermal container. Ensure that the dish is not left at room temperature for more than one hour.Cook to safe temperatures. Use the cooking times and tem-peratures in the recipes to nd out the right temperature for chicken. Good eating!Scope RV Camping Magazine Spring 2025 - Page 83Food safety for chicken continued Long-time members of the On-tario Provincial Association of the Family Campers and RVers were honoured with certicates at the recent Fall OPA Campout held in Brigden, Ontario. Those honoured were:55 Years - Donna Kennett, David and Marie Wilkes, Dave Webster and Lyn Sparling.50 Years -Marg Henderson45 Years - Roland and Lise Bois-venue25 Years - Randy & Katherine StonerLONG TIME MEMBERS HONOURED BY OPAPetrolia, Ontario. Megan was featured in early is-sues of Scope donating her hair for wigs for cancer patients. Well Megan has now become the mother of a tiny little camper by the name of Thomas Lorne McDonough. He is pictured in a feature in this issue of the Sarnia 4Ts Thanksgiving dinner. Megan dressed the little one in a hot dog outt for Halloween.THOMAS LORNE MCDONOUGH continued Spring Has Sprung at the National Peanut Festival Fairground - 5622 Hwy 231 South, Dothan, Ala-bama, 36301 The rally runs March 24 to March 30, 2025 With Early Bird Days: March 21, 22 & 23 The cost for two people in a unit is $330 U.S. Funds One person in unit = $300 U.S. funds Each Bird Day costs $40 U.S. funds. The Registration Deadline is March 1, 2025. Late registrations pay $35 U.S. additional. Included in the fee are full hook-ups, (30/50 amp services) Ice Cream Social, two dinners, live entertainment, sports, crafts, and a lot of fun. Please make checks payable to FCRV/NCHA Retiree Rally. (U.S. Bank accounts only) Unfortunately no credit card payments are ac-cepted. Mail checks to Mildred Pauwels, P.O. Box 193, Dana, N.C. 28724 The theme is “Spring Has Sprung,” and coordinators Steve and Diane Hitchens, are preparing many fun events for all to enjoy. You won’t want to miss this event. So put a “Spring” in your step and “Leap” on over to Dothan for a “Rally good time.” Remember, you do not have to be retired to come to the Rally, you just have to be ready to have a good time!53rd International FCRV Retiree Rally in Dothan, Alabama.

insulated Camping Cabins with double bed, full linens, towels and even satellite TV. The cabins are located adjacent to their modern washrooms. The campground is centrally located to the entrance of the famous Cabot Trail and many campers who return from Newfoundland stay a few extra days to do The Trail. There are plenty of things to see and do in the area. You may enjoy a visit to historic Fort Louisbourg, a Parks Canada site, Situated deep in the hart of the historic shing area. You can take a tour of the Fort. Entrance is $19.75 for adults, $16.75 senior and youth are free. You might also enjoy the Louisbourg Playhouse where some of the nest local actors take you back in history. There’s also the Cape Breton Miners Museum. Mining was a great part of Nova Scotia’s history. You can visit the museum for $10 adults, $7 youth or if you wish you can take an underground tour at $25 adults, Arm of Gold Campground continued$20 youth with 5 and under free. A family rate is $80. Current campsite rates are $46.95 for 30 amp RV ser-vice site, $54.95 for 50 amp RV service site, $38.95 for a tenting site and $74.94 for a camping cabin. There’s plenty to see and do with a visit to this “gateway to New-foundland” campground. We enjoyed our stay there and expect you would too.Arm of Gold Campground24 Church Road, Little Bras d’OrCape Breton, Nova ScotiaCanada, B1Y 2Y2 Tel: (902) 736-6516Fax: (902) 736-6671Toll-Free: 1-866-736-6516E-mail: camp@armofgoldcamp.comWebsite: www.armofgoldcamp.comNearby historic Fort Louisbourg is a popular siteFort LouisbourgWhere you can step back in time and experience Nova Scotia’s unique history.The campground’s Big Barn makes an ideal meeting place. Here a group of regulars enjoys a musical event. Photos courtesy the campgroundOne of the modern camping cab-ins at Arm of Gold Campground with a double bed, all linen sup-plied and even satellite TV. They are located near the modern washrooms and rent for about $75 a night.The nearby Miners Museum pays tribute to Nova Scotia’s deep his-tory in mining. You can even take an underground tour if you are so inclined.The Cabot Trail is a popular des-tination for many Nova Scotia visitors. It is a pleasant 298 ki-lometer drive that winds it’s way though rural Nova Scotia.Page 84 - Spring 2025Scope RV Camping Magazine

Dressed up or straight off a tour boat, there’s always somewhere to enjoy a delicious meal. George Street in St. John’s may boast the most bars per capita, but downtown has almost as many restaurants, with delightful aromas inviting you to come on in. Dine in style at Chinched — specializing in house-made charcuterie items — and enjoy their selection of ne pates, sausages, terrines, and dry-cured goods. Or stroll down historical Water Street and discover The Merchant Tavern, an upscale restaurant in an old bank building which is perfect for those looking to appreciate ne fare and spirits. For casual ne dining in a warm and intimate setting, visit Oliver’s — renowned for its fresh, local ingredients, spectacular wine list, and attention to detail. Fancy something a little more low-key then visit the Duke of Duck-worth or Bannerman Brewing and try a local brew with your meal. Otherwise, head to Ches’s and bite into their iconic sh and chips, they’ve been a household name since 1951. If you’d like to get out of the city without having to go too far, head on over to Chafe’s Landing in picturesque Petty Harbour for delicious fresh seafood (and the family’s secret batter recipe). Outside the capital, your options are endless. On the Bonavista Peninsula, try the Two Whales Coffee Shop or the Bonavista Social Club. Otherwise, head to Fogo and hotel guests can dine at the Fogo Island Inn, an architec-tural wonder built at one of the four corners of the Earth. A trip to Labrador isn’t complete without a meal at the Florian Hotel. Scrumptious eats come with a side of panoramic ocean views at the Florian Dining Room — so be sure to keep an eye out for icebergs and whales. Newfoundland restaurants offer great food choices For a more exclusive experience, head to their private gazebo. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a guided salmon shing excursion to catch your own supper. Bragging rights never tasted so good. Hungry but not in the mood to dine out? Stop by one of their Farmer’s Markets and get acquainted with Food and fun are the order of the day when you visit one of Newfound-land and Labrador’s numerous restaurants. Photo and story courtesy Newfoundland and Labrador Travel.the best from local farmers, food artisans, and craftspeople. Make your own culinary master-piece with fresh, locally grown pro-duce, or grab a quick bite of ready-to-eat fare. Endless new avours and specialty foods await on your visit to Newfoundland and Labrador!Spring 2025 - Page 85Scope RV Camping Magazine There have been a great many changes in the way Scope is cre-ated over the past 60 years. In the beginning we created the pages of Scope with printed type, headings and photographs. Those nished pages were then photo-graphed to make offset printing plates that we used to physically print the pages on our own press. In those early days we used Compugraphic phototypesetting machines that cost us as much as $40,000 (in those day’s money) and we had one machine for body copy, another for headings and we shot screen prints of photographs in order to use pictures in the publica-out? tion. Even the scribe lines at the end of stories were put on by hand using a roll of various thicknesses of lines and cut off with an Exacto knife. It was quite a chore way back when we reproduced the publication in just black and white. Today all our makeup is done on MacIntosh computers with several Adobe software programs, Photo-shop for our photos and InDesign to assemble the pages. We then create pdf les that we post to our website. Yes things have changed dramati-cally since those early days in the 1960s!Things have changed in production since those early days

you’ll be able to fully explore and appreciate each location. This ulti-mately leads to a more relaxed and fullling life.4. You’ll Need to be Resourceful if You Rely on WiFi for Work If you rely on WiFi for work, you will need to do a great deal of plan-ning to be fully prepared for life on the road. Free campground WiFi is very often unreliable and insufcient for work needs. Full-time working RVers typically have multiple internet sources, such as satellite connections and hotspots from more than one car-rier, to ensure coverage in various locations. Being resourceful and having backup options is crucial to maintaining a stable connection for remote work on the road.5. Everything Takes Longer in an RV In an RV, everyday tasks can take longer than in a traditional home. Setting up and breaking down camp, cooking in a smaller kitchen, and managing limited storage all require extra time and effort. Planning and patience are key to adapting to this slower pace of life. Embrace the process and enjoy the journey, knowing that this is part of the unique experience of full-time RV living.6. The Freedom and Flexibility is Unmatched Full-time RV living offers unparal-leled freedom and exibility. You can change your location and scen-ery whenever you want, allowing you to follow the weather, explore new places, and live spontaneously. A phrase used amongst full-time RVers is: “Don’t like your neigh-bors? Move!” This playful phrase seems ridiculous out of context, but full-time RVers have the freedom to move whenever they please – even if it’s just to get away from noisy or annoying camp neighbors! RV life frees you from the con-straints of a xed location, giv-ing you the ability to create a life lled with diverse experiences and adventures tailored to your prefer-ences.7. You’ll Be So Much Closer To Nature Full-time RV living allows you to immerse yourself in nature like nev-er before. You can camp in beauti-ful, remote locations and wake up to stunning landscapes. This life en-courages a more outdoor-oriented way of life, with ample opportunities for hiking, shing, stargazing, and other activities that foster a deep connection with the natural world. However – if nature isn’t really your forte, full-time RVing can also allow you to stay at high-end resorts and campgrounds within or near your favorite metro areas. This can allow you to experience the hustle and bustle of city life without the high costs of home ownership!8. You Can Forge Stronger Rela-tionships Living in an RV full-time can strengthen relationships with travel companions. Sharing close quarters and facing challenges together fos-ters teamwork and communication. Additionally, the RV community is welcoming and supportive, offering opportunities to meet new people and build friendships on the road. Join us at an Escapees RV Club or an Xscapers event and see! Due to our nomadic life, friend-ships forged with other RVers tend to skip the small talk and go right into meaningful conversa-tions. These connections, both with companions and fellow RVers, can become a cherished aspect of your life.9. You’ll Embrace a Minimalist Life Full-time RV living encourages a minimalist lifestyle, as space is limited, and every item must have a purpose. This downsizing leads to a simpler, less cluttered life, allowing you to focus on what truly matters. Embracing minimalism can bring a sense of freedom and satisfaction, reducing stress and making it easier to enjoy the experiences and ad-ventures that come with RV living. As full-time RVers, you will relish in the collection of experiences, not things.10. You’ll Have Many Unique Experiences Full-time RV living opens the door to unique experiences you might not encounter otherwise. You can visit off-the-beaten-path locations, discover hidden gems, and im-merse yourself in diverse cultures and communities. This life offers the exibility to attend local events, festivals, and attractions, providing a rich tapestry of memories and stories that are uniquely yours.11. Full-Time RVing Leads to Improved Self-Sufciency Full-time RV living enhances your self-sufciency. You’ll learn to rely on yourself for problem-solving and everyday tasks, from basic repairs to navigating new environments. Overcoming these challenges builds condence and indepen-dence, making you more resource-ful and capable. This increased self-reliance is a rewarding aspect of RV life, empowering you to handle whatever comes your way. For more information on the Escapees RV Club be sure to visit their website below and enjoy the many articles that will enlighten your RV experience. Membership can be very rewarding too!www.escapees.comFull-time RV life continuedPage 86 - Spring 2025 Scope RV Camping MagazineBe prepared to make repairs if you intend to live in your RV

Newfoundland bird watching continuedeasily accessible beach. Take the time to scan the expansive mud ats for graceful Greater Yellow-legs, chunky Spotted Sandpipers, and other shorebirds. The rutted back-country trails weaving over the rounded moun-tains hugging Bay d’Espoir offer the opportunity to get deep into the boreal forest—perfect for encoun-tering breeding birds like Mourning Warblers, Tennessee Warblers, American Redstarts, and Yellow-bellied Flycatchers. Every spring and summer, these tiny colourful birds breed in the boreal forest across the province, spending their time gorging on insects and raising their young. Bring a bug jacket and your cam-era, and prepare for some up close and personal encounters with these lively visitors. After all that hiking, enjoy a refreshing dip and a picnic on the sandy beach at the south end of St. Alban’s, where the occasional boat zips past and birds drift overhead, before getting back on the road to explore some more.Notre Dame Bay Cottlesville, a small town on the north coast not too far from Twill-ingate, offers a mix of forest and coastal habitats, not to mention endless photo opportunities. At sunrise, the morning mists hov-er lazily over the water’s surface, and at sunset, the bays and inlets separating the archipelago’s islands glow orange with reected light. Nearby, the Summerford Hiking Trails—an enchanted place com-plete with whimsically decorated tire swings—are lled with the sweet whistles of Yellow Warblers, clear uting of Swainson’s Thrushes, and slurred song of Fox Sparrows. Don’t be surprised if you hear a cacophony of calls coming from the trunk of a nearby tree. Many species, like woodpeckers, nest in holes within trees, and as the nestlings get older, they can get pretty noisy.What to Pack For Your Birding AdventureGear up! If you’re out birding along New-foundland and Labrador’s back-country terrain, here are some useful items you’ll want to bring with you:GPS units—many of these areas have limited (or no) cell phone serviceMicrophones for capturing and identifying birdsongTons of extra layers (the weather can turn on a dime)Water and snacks for long daysBinocularsYour camera One of the most exciting things about birding in central Newfound-land is the aspect of discovery. Many areas of the island are rarely visited, and you might easily be the rst person to visit a spot - and the rst to encounter a species never before recorded there. While searching for birds at the far-ung edges of the island, you can also contribute to an ongoing citizen science project, the New-foundland Breeding Bird Atlas. Led by Birds Canada, the atlas is a ve-year project aiming to map the distribution of all the bird species breeding on the island. That’s a lot of ground to cover, so the success of the project depends on the participation of citizen scien-tists, who can add their sightings to the online database. Contributing to the Atlas is a great way to share your birding encounters and help expand our knowledge about Newfoundland’s breeding birds. Watching the sun rise over the coast, feeling the chill in the air on foggy mornings, and exploring the roads less travelled in pursuit of some of the smallest, least-seen birds of the island is an experience not to be missed. If you’re visiting Newfoundland and Labrador, make sure not to miss the huge skies, exciting wildlife encounters, and challenging hiking that can be found beyond the major centres. And of course, keep your ears open for all the birds of the backcountry and bays.Catherine Dale is a biologist and a self-professed bird nerd. She works for Birds Canada as the Coordinator of the Newfoundland Breeding Bird Atlas and enjoys any opportunity to get out and explore the nooks and crannies of this amazing province.Laura King is a naturalist and outdoorswoman who works as a bi-ologist and previously served as the President at Nature NL. She likes spontaneous road trips to new parts of NL, paddling, and of course, all the wildlife of our beautiful province.Western Brook Pond Trail. Photo by Dru KennedyPhotos provided by Newfoundland & Labrador Travelwww.newfoundlandandlabrador.comSpring 2025 - Page 87Scope RV Camping Magazine

Stand atop Signal Hill near St. John’s in Newfoundland and let your soul be stirred by the crack of muskets and the roar of cannon re. Discover the story of how British and French soldiers battled ercely to control this strategic location. Explore the iconic Cabot Tower and experience a view of St. John’s and the North Atlantic that is truly spectacular. As its name implies, centuries before the advent of ship-to-shore radio, signalman perched on Signal Hill and surveyed the ocean for ships headed toward the port of St. John’s. Flag signals own on the hill com-municated the names of arriving ships to those who inhabited the harbour-front below. You can take a journey back in time to 1901, when the famous Guglielmo Marconi made commu-nications history at Signal Hill by receiving the rst ever transatlantic wireless signal. The military and communications signicance of Signal Hill is well documented and presented at the Visitor Centre. Staff will guide you through the story of Signal Hill and a short presentation in the theatre will allow you to discover the human experi-ence of Signal Hill. Visitors can also take a self-guided tour with Parks Canada’s new EXPLORA unit, ask for it at the Visitor Centre. During the summer months, expe-rience a performance of the award-winning Signal Hill Tattoo. This engaging re-enactment dem-onstrates the military drills of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment of foot as formed in 1795. The experience at Signal Hill is very much an outdoors one. Be sure to hike the ve km of trails, especially the famous North Head Trail, which offers a unique traverse Newfoundland’s Signal Hill is steeped in historyST. JOHNS, NEWFOUNDLANDThe Cabot Tower on Signal Hill is a popular destination for many visi-tors to Newfoundland. It has a unique history and is located just out-side of the city of St. Johns. Newfoundland & Labrador Travel photo.along the Narrows of St. John’s Harbour and into the colourful com-munity called the Battery. The Johnson GEO CENTRE and surrounding Geopark are the hill’s other main attraction. The GEO CENTRE, built partially into a small pond that was drained to expose the rock, uses the plenti-ful geology of Newfoundland and Labrador to explore the evolution of the planet. Drop by the Visitor Centre for a guided tour.Signal Hill National Historic Site is conveniently located in the east end of St. John’s on Signal Hill Road. For more information, visit the Parks Canada ofcial website: http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/lhn-nhs/nl/signalhill/index.aspxThis road leads thousands of tourists up to Signal Hill just outside St. Johns. Barrett and McKay photo.A canon on Signal HillPage 88 - Spring 2025 Scope RV Camping Magazine

Members of the Tri-County Trav-ellers attended a weekend of music recently at Pleasant Valley Trout Farm near Sparta, Ontario. Large “dry camping” sites were available for $50 for the weekend and an additional $50 paid for two days of live music from ten different bands. Complimentary rewood was available for the campsite repits and shuttles took campers down to the nearby entertainment area. Tables and chairs were set up in a large tent to keep folks from the sun. A cash bar, food trucks and wash-rooms were available. One of the attractions was an em-bellished golf cart recreated to look like the famous TowMater from the movie Cars. Many attendees captured a pic-tured with the car.. A number of campers from On-tario attended the annual event that raises funds for local charities.Ontario campers enjoy Thunder In The Valley campoutMembers of the Tri-County Travellers are shown in the tent while they enjoyed the music at the Thunder In The Valley Campout.Tri-County Travellers members gathered around the TowMater replica on the grounds of the Thunder In The Valley campout near Sparta, Ontario. Campers enjoying the music at the charity weekend campout.Spring 2025 - Page 89Scope RV Camping MagazinePLEASE TELL YOUR CAMPING FRIENDSTHAT THEY MAY ACCESS THIS PUBLICATION FREE OF CHARGEJUST BY GOING TOwww.clickoncamping.caPhotos by Lynn Acre.Recipe by Chicken Farmers of Nova Scotia These small-bite tartlets are a stunning appetizer at any party! Slightly spicy cranberry salsa tastes unbelievable paired with the chicken mixture in these bites. Serves: 24Prep Time: 10 minCook Time: 25 minIngredientsImperialMetric24 frozen unsweetened mini tart shells1 lb ground chicken¼ cup onion(s), minced1 tsp thyme, dried½ tsp salt1 egg, beaten1/3 cup light sour creamCranberry Salsa½ cup cranberries, fresh or frozen1/4 cup sugar2 green onion(s), sliced1/4 cup cilantro, fresh, minced2 tsp ginger, fresh, minced1 lime, zest and juice1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and slicedChicken tartlets with cranberry salsaChicken Tartlets with Cranberry Salsa

Dodge celebrates 20th anniversary continuedhonours a power-packed pairing: 20 years of HEMI power under the hood of the Dodge brand’s three-row muscle SUV. The Dodge Durango R/T 20th Anniversary model is equipped with an array of features including:Black HEMI hood graphic“345” fender badging with Brass Monkey accents20-inch by 10-inch Y-spoke forged lightweight Brass Monkey wheelsSRT seats featuring distinctive Tupelo bronze-like stitching accents and “345” embroidered on seat-backsBlack exterior badgingTow N Go package adding perfor-mance-tuned steering, adaptive damping suspension, Brembo brakes, active exhaust and 3,946 kg (8,700 lbs.) of towing capacityBlack six-piston Brembo brake systemPremium wrapped instrument panel and forged carbon bre interior ac-centsSecond-row captain’s chairsThe 2025 Dodge Durango R/T 20th Anniversary special-edition vehicle will be available in four exterior colours — Diamond Black, White Knuckle, Destroyer Grey, and Vapor Grey — and in two trim options.The Durango R/T 20th Anniversary special-edition model includes a range of standard content including a power sunroof, nine-speaker Al-pine premium audio system, heated rst- and second-row seats, vented rst-row seats, Forward Collision Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Trailer-tow Group, Blind Spot with Trailer Detect and much more. The 2025 Dodge Durango R/T 20th Anniversary starts at $83,580 ($81,285 Canadian MSRP plus ad-ditional fees). The Plus option for the Du-rango R/T 20th Anniversary adds key standard features includ-ing 19-speaker Harman Kardon system with an 825-watt amplier, suede headliner, black roof rails, Advanced Brake Assist, Lane Departure Warning Plus and more. The 2025 Dodge Durango R/T 20th Anniversary Plus option starts at $85,285 Canadian MSRP plus ad-ditional fees. The 2025 Dodge Durango R/T 20th Anniversary special-edition model is available now for ordering at dealerships. Dodge//SRTFor 110 years, the Dodge brand has carried on the spirit of brothers John and Horace Dodge. Their inuence continues today as Dodge shifts into high gear with a lineup that delivers unrivaled performance in each of the segments in which the brand competes while moving forward to a future that includes electried muscle in the form of the next-generation, all-new Dodge Charger. The next-generation Dodge Charger electries a legend, with the Charger retaining its title as the world’s quickest and most powerful muscle car led by the all-new, all-electric 2024 Dodge Charger Day-tona Scat Pack. The all-new Dodge Charger will also offer performance choices via multi-energy powertrain options including the 550-horse-power Dodge Charger SIXPACK H.O., powered by the 3.0L Twin Tur-bo Hurricane High Output engine. Dodge also keeps its foot on the gas as a pure performance brand with the 710-horsepower Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat, the most powerful SUV ever, and best-in-class standard performance in the compact utility vehicle segment with the Dodge Hornet. Dodge is part of the portfolio of brands offered by leading global automaker and mobility provider Stellantis. For more information regarding Stellantis (NYSE: STLA), please visit www.stellantis.com.A Stellantis assembly line at the Windsor location. They are the largest employer in Windsor, Ontario. Stellantis photo.LET SCOPE NOTIFY YOU WHEN ANEW ISSUE IS POSTED!SIMPLY EMAIL US WITH”SUBSCRIBE” IN THE TOPIC LINE AND WE WILL ADD YOU TO OUR EMAIL LIST AT NO CHARGE!YOU’LL GET AN EMAIL EVERY TIME WE RELEASE A NEW ISSUE OR BLOG POSTINGPlease include address.email to:harold.merton@yahoo.caPage 90 - Spring 2025Scope RV Camping Magazine

When planning an RV trip, we tend to think about all the fun aspects, packing the portable grill, bikes, and foldable camping chairs, along with necessary items for a well-prepared outing is usually what we focus on before hitting the open road. While focusing on adventure and fun is key, keeping safety in mind is just as important. With nearly 11 percent of house-holds being listed as RV owners, along with an estimated one million North Americans living in their RV year-round, accidents are bound to occur. Making sure you and your passen-gers are protected is of the utmost importance. This article gives some guidance for ensuring a safe trip. Here are eight important tips for RV safety. Before You Go Plan the trip in advance. Check the destination’s website for any last-minute weather advisories or closures. The day before your trip, or even the morning of, check weather radars for multiple places between your start and nish locations to ensure clear skies for driving. Additional safety suggestions here include having contact information for the location you are headed to. Don’t rely solely on the internet and Google maps, but have phone numbers, reservation numbers, and contact information on hand. Here’s an idea! Hang a whiteboard near the door of your RV for easy visibility. For each trip, change the information to include your camp-ground address and campsite num-ber. Having this information on hand in the off chance of an emergency will help you to provide the exact address of your location. The night before, fuel up the rig fully and do a safety check. Check road conditions and weather pat-terns for the route you’ve chosen FMCA offers these tips for planning your RV tripand make any last-minutes changes to the path you will be driving. There are a variety of apps that provide road updates in real time. Ensure a fully packed rst aid kit is ready to go. Have a variety of tools packed in a compartment, in case of minor re-pairs that might be needed through-out the trip. Some items to keep in the safety kit include: •Jumper cables •Electrical tape •Spare batteries •Flashlights •Portable cellphone chargers and battery chargers •Fire extinguishers •Extra oil and uids •Tire pressure gauge • Collapsible shovel•A variety of screwdrivers, wrenches, etc. Make sure your insurance and warranty papers are in the glovebox or another easily accessible loca-tion, along with the vehicle registra-tion. Have a list of emergency contacts and medications for all passengers. In addition, if traveling with dogs or cats, bring along their vet records. Follow the Numbers Rule This is a good guide to follow and is easy to remember. The rule of thumb is to keep a day’s travel under 300 miles, and arrive at your destination prior to 3:00 p.m. The third part of the 3/3/3 rule suggests staying at your destination for at least three days but of course this is optional. Another suggestion for travel includes stopping every two hours and taking a 15-minute break out-side the RV. This is especially true for those travelling with fur babies. Letting the dogs out of their crates or cages to move around a bit is most welcoming to them. If the 3/3/3 rule isn’t for you, a similar rule of thumb is the 4/4/4: drive 400 miles or less daily, arrive at your resort or destination by 4:00 p.m., and remain camping at the destination for at least four days. Need less time at a destination? Then downgrade driving times with the 2/2/2 rule. Pushing yourself too much to hurry and arrive may come naturally, but know your limits, and when you start to feel tired or rest-less, pulling over at the next exit for a truck stop rest is a smart choice. These three variations give a general travel guideline, but outside Spring 2025 - Page 91Scope RV Camping MagazineContinued on page 92

of them, a specic stopping plan is to get 45 minutes of non-driving time in throughout a 4.5-hour pe-riod. Keep Those Seatbelts Fastened While the motorhome or tow-ing vehicle is moving, passengers should be in their seats with safety belts on. Although kids and pets might want to be up and moving around a motorhome while travel-ling, keeping them in their seats (or pet crates) is for their own safety. And for yours. Kids and pets can be distracting, and their movements might cause you to take your eyes off the road for a longer period of time. In addition, passengers who aren’t seated and buckled in could be breaking the law depending on what jurisdiction you are in. Some states and provinces require seatbelts to always be worn. Keep your Distance Since RVs are heavier vehicles, it stands to reason that they would need more stopping time. Allowing more time to slow down and gradu-ally stop is imperative. Brake gradu-ally to ensure a smooth process, and if you are towing an RV, keep in mind brake fade actions. Be Cautious when Changing Lanes Let the wireless observation cam-era screen be your guide. Or, use the old-school method of checking side mirrors often before changing lanes. Check regularly to ensure there are no vehicles in the blind spot. As with making turns, allow extra time to cautiously merge into the inner or outer lane of trafc. Set the Alarms Installing and maintaining smoke alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms within the RV is most im-portant. Place the alarms near the kitchen and/or sleeping areas and remember to check them before each trip, along with changing bat-teries regularly. Monitor the Monitors Tire pressure monitors are great Eight RV safety tips from FMCA continuedto rely on, simply because you can learn of problems before they cause an issue or damage. One of the tire monitors to consider purchasing in-cludes a sensor that is placed within the tire and a remotely based digital display of the tire pressure. Treat the RV as Your Home Whether for short trips or long-term living, treating your RV the same way as your home is impor-tant. Lock the doors before going to bed each night and when leaving ‘the home’ for a bit of time. Going on a hike? Lock the RV. Be aware and be courteous to your neighbors. Just as most have in their homes, travel with a security camera. Or install an RV security system, which consists of an alarm, cameras, and a motion detection light. Putting these tips into motion before departing for a trip can help to ensure ultimate RV safety. A little bit of prep work will lead to a safer, more relaxing vacation.Story courtesy FMCA www.fmca.comPage 92 - Spring 2025Scope RV Camping MagazineTrailer hitch injury continuedPLEASE TELL YOUR CAMPING FRIENDS THAT THEY TOO CAN RECEIVE SCOPE FREE OF CHARGE BY VISITING www.clickoncamping.caOx, we rigorously design and test each product to meet high safety standards when used as directed. Our instructions offer detailed guidance for safe instal-lation and use, and we urge all customers to review our videos and materials thoroughly. Working closely with our dealer partners, we emphasize the importance of following each step, from installation to regular inspection, to ensure safe perfor-mance. Thank you for allowing us to address this matter. For any Blue Ox Customer with questions, our Customer Care Team is always here to help via phone, email, or live chat on blueox.com.” Alex Walker, Director of SalesBlue Ox, One Mill Road, PO Box 430, Pender NE 68047. In my experience Blue Ox has al-ways been a very good name in RV accessories and we feel that there was nothing the manufacturer or the installing dealer could have done to prevent the incident. It comes down to one thing SAFE-TY which must be considered at all times when hitching and unhitching any trailer. Further information on these prod-ucts can be secured by visiting any of the following Blue Ox websites or by contacting Hitch n’ Go at the websites below. Hitch n’ Go tells us they install literally countless numbers of these hitches.blueox.comautomaticag.commadramps.comwww.hitchngorv.com The Oxford Dictionary has an-nounced the addition of a new word this year. It is “Slop”. Slop is the new name for Aricial Intellegence (AI) generated mate-rial. The company adds new words that have crept into our vocabulary each year. I guess we can eat slop anymore!Oxford Dictionery has added “Slop” to new words this year.

By Lynn Acre In mid-October members of FCRV’s 4Ts and the Tri-County Travellers gathered at the At-tawandaron Scout Camp near the Pinery Provincial Park in Ontario for a weekend of wood cutting, cleanup and fellowship.. The groups regularly assist the camp by doing special chores so that there is wood for the Scouts for their campres when they attend. When the wind blows seriously the branches come down in the heavily forested area and the group turns the mess into useful rewood. A huge pile of log chunks was soon reduced to a shed stacked full of oak and pine. “Many hands made light work” they say “plus it’s more fun”. When not working the group gath-ered around the huge campre for conversation and fellowship.John Waite and Ben Vandevyvere found a nice juicy grub under some bark and offered it to the la-dies for the chili but the donation was apparently not accepted.The campre is a popular gathering place for the campers who regularly attend the special camping area they use at the Attawandaron Scout Camp.A group of the men gather for a picture during the work session. Photos by Lynn Acre.Big saws make quick work of fall-en big trees.The men use one of the pieces of power equipment to chop the wood for future use.Sarnia 4Ts and Tri-County Travellers spend weekend chopping wood at Attawandaron Scout CampConnie Skillings, left, and Sharon Sandau work on the chili pot in the Beaver Hall. Apparently they did not include the juicy grub shown in the other picture that the men offered.No damage was done when this branch fell near this RV. A smaller branch held it back.Spring 2025 - Page 93Scope RV Camping Magazine OUR 60TH YEAR OF PUBLICATION

The history behind the Scope typefaceBy Harold Merton Readers may have noticed over the years that the typeface we used for the Scope logo is very different than most of those seen today. When I was beginning Scope way back in 1964 I was a member of the photographic staff of the London Free Press. One of my best ends was a man named Clive Royston who was night foreman of the Free Press composing room. Clive actually printed the rst few issues of Scope on a Davidson offset press I pur-chased for the venture. However after a couple of issues our print run was well over 5,000 copies per issue and it became more economical to go to a local web printer to produce the publica-tion. In later years our print run exceed-ed 30,000 copies per issue. The composing room put all the type, cuts and photographic plates used to form the pages of the news-paper together. Once assembled the pages were taken to another machine in the Stereo Department that made the curved plates of the entire page that went on the gigantic letterpress printing press. To celebrate centennial year the Free Press gathered together some very old printing equipment and as-sociated items and built an old-fash-ioned printing shop in a specially built cabin that they had rst on the lawn of the Free Press property on York Street in London, Ontario and then at historic Fanshawe Village (a collection of historic buildings and items on Fanshawe lake just outside the city at that time.) I was looking for a distinct type-face for the logo and called on Clive to see what he could nd. They had just brought in all the old wooden hand carved type they had used in the centennial display and he found about ve typefaces for me to consider. He had placed them on the old hand-rolled printing www.clickoncamping.cathe Scope typeface being used for Scott. I contacted the U.S. advertising agency that created the commercial and they gave me the name of a current Adobe typeface they said they used. However when I went to the Adobe site and looked it up I was not con-vinced it was the same. Where the typeface came from this time I still do no know but I do know it is still very unique!The typeface for the Scott logo looks remarkably similar to the 150 year old Scope typeface style. Very interesting!Page 94 - Spring 2025 Scope RV Camping Magazinemachine and had pulled paper proofs of the samples. This one type had only a few of the letters but there was enough to make the name Scope with a capital “S” and the rest lower case letters There was no indication of the name of the typeface and they g-ured the type had to be at least 100 yeas old back in 1964. It was unique and I chose it because I gured the publication would be unique too. Over the years I have tried very hard to nd a similar typeface and to nd out the name of it but I have never been successful. However lets jump in time to about four months ago when a commer-cial for Scott lawn fertilizer began to be advertised on TV. Wow! There on the screen was edge of the gulch for that once-in-a-lifetime photo op.Option 1 – Day Hike of Western Brook Pond Gorge Your rst option is a relatively new tour offered by BonTours. They of-fer a guided day hike to the location where you can have your picture taken. After a 45-minute walk to the dock, you take a boat shuttle that drops you and your guide off at the mouth of the fjord. Your guide brings you up to the top of the gorge and along the way provides interpretation of the ecosystem and history of the area. Once you have taken in the view and had a well-deserved lunch break, you will head back down and hop back on the shuttle to return to the dock and the 45-minute walk Western Brook Pond fjord continuedback to the parking area. While the entire excursion takes about 8 hours, the actual hike from where the boat drops you off to the top of the gorge is about 3.5 to 4 hours depending on your hiking ability and how much you are carrying.Long Range Mountain Hike, Gros Morne National ParkOption 2 – Multi-Day Hike of the Long Range Traverse Hiking Trail Your second option is to hike the entire Long Range Traverse, which is about 35km and a multiple day hike (usually about 3-4 nights). The Long Range Traverse is part of the Long Range Mountains and marks the north end of the Appa-lachian mountain range. It goes without saying that you should be an experienced hiker to take this Continued on page 96

By Harold Merton It’s not very often that you nd a product that really lives up to its claim! We found one recently and it’s probably one that a lot of our read-ers could use. Urine Erase is designed to do just that ...erase pet urine stains and smells. However it will also work on human accidents too! I had not realized that someone we knew well was behind this great product. Bob Reid, better know to many people in the London and Western Ontario as leader of the well-know and very popular band Boxnox-ious, now carries on the tradition started by his dad Glenn Reid who invented the product back in 1978. If your pet has had an “accident” in your home or RV then this product is for you. You simply remove the cap and take the enzyme powder from under Urine-Erase Stain and Odor Re-mover is a high quality cleaner for pet stains. This includes stains from urine and feces. This enzy-matic oxidizes deep cleans the affected area, for maximum fresh-ness. This formula uses safe in-gredients that aren’t toxic for humans or animals and is an eco-friendly product, too.PRODUCT TESTUrine Erase does a great job of getting rid of stains and odorsthe cap and mix it with two cups of water, then you pour that liquid on the stain. There’s no scrubbing! Eight hours later you pour the so-lution in the bottle on the stain and both the stain and the odor disap-pear. When dry you just vacuum the spot and you’re done! The manufacturer claims it will even remedy stains that have ex-isted for 30 years. Wow! Sorry but we had no way to test that! The product is found in many stores including Home Hardware and sells for about $19 for the standard size can. In the U.S. it is a popular product at Bed Wetting Stores. If you have really big problems they offer it in both 4 litre and 10 litre sizes. This is truly a Canadian product. It was invented, manufactured and packaged in the London, Ontario area and is still made here now under the direction of Bob. Some readers may remember that Bob Reid began a campaign to have a re extinguisher in every ve-hicle after he stumbled on a crash south of London, Ontario where a young woman was trapped in her car and a re started. He was unable to free her and with nobody having a re extinguisher the lady perished in the re. It made quite an impression on Bob and he has campaigned ever since for a law to make a re extin-guisher mandatory in every vehicle. Many, many drivers in Canada now carry a re extinguisher in their vehicle because of Bob’s campaign. So if you need to cleanup after your pet has an accident then get yourself a can of Urine Erase. It will do the job no matter whether your pet is an animal or a tiny human!Eat whatever you like because:•The inventor of the treadmill died at the age of 54• The inventor of gymnastics died at the age of 57•The world bodybuilding champion died at the age of 41•One of the best football players in the world Maradona died at the age of 60But...•The inventor of Kentucky Fried Chicken Col. Saunders died at 94*The inventor of Nutella died at 88ªThe inventor of Hennessy died at 98 Wonder how the doctors came to the conclusion that exercise pro-longs life when:*The rabbit is always jumping but lives for just about two years* The turtle that hardly exercises at all lives over 200 years. Enjoy life! To watch a You Tube video on this product visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O9ijLl8-Bpw You do have to watch a few sec-ond commercial before the Urine Erase video begins.TODAY’S SMILE!YOU TUBE VIDEOOur next issue of Scope is released in late summer.Spring 2025 - Page 95Scope RV Camping Magazine

Page 96 - Spring 2025Scope RV Camping MagazineEditor’s Note: When we visited the site on our Newfoundland tour in 2008 I did that long walk from the parking lot to the boat dock. It was quite an exercise for someone who was starting to have mobility prob-lems but I did it. I tried my best to hire someone there with a golf cart to take me and another member of our group who had walking difculties to the boat dock but they insisted they had nothing. They have a snack bar and sou-venir stand at the dock and I am positive they didn’t backpack all the supplies in for it but they just would not cooperate. I wondered then and still do wonder how they get around the ac-cessibility laws for the handicapped these days. The scenery was awesome and was well worth the effort at the time but I could not even consider it today! They were missing a great market-ing opportunity by not providing a paid surrey golf cart ride to the end of the trail like some other Maritime provinces do like at the Flowerpot Rocks. However at press time I have learned that they now do have a privately-operated service that will take people for a nominal cash pay-ment at the parking lot and trans-port them directly to the boat dock. Wonderful! It was a shame for all those people who could not have made the hike to miss this wonder-ful attraction!option. In fact, Parks Canada requires hikers of the Long Range Traverse to pass a warden’s meet-ing whereby proof of knowledge of navigational tools is required. Similar to the day hike option, the Long Range Traverse hike starts with a boat tour at West-ern Brook Pond where you get dropped off to the mouth of the fjord. On day one of hiking you reach Western Brook Pond fjord continuedthis exact location, and you then continue on the trail for a couple of days until you reach the nal desti-nation which is Gros Morne Moun-tain’s James Callaghan Trail. Keep in mind that this is a back-country trail and therefore there are no trail markings, so topographical map reading and compass skills are essential for navigation. Alter-natively, there are tour operators in Gros Morne National Park that of-fer guided hiking tours of the Long Range Traverse, including Gros Morne Adventures. While this hike is certainly chal-lenging, it has also been named by National Geographic as one of the World’s Best Hikes, and for good reason. For more information on the Long Range Traverse hike, Trail-peak, a Canadian trails website, offers a great summary of what you can expect there. Parks Canada also offers alternative route options and a backcountry hiking map .Western Brook Pond, Gros Morne National Park One of the most difcult decisions you’ll have when you reach West-ern Brook Pond is how you wish to experience it. One thing is for certain, once you’ve experienced Western Brook Pond, you won’t soon forget it. It’s quite an effort to get there but the boat tour and the scenery is An absolutely breath-taking aerial view of Newfoundland’s Western Brook Pond fjord in Gros Morne National Park. Photo by Newfoundand and Labrador Travel.A spectacular waterfall that tum-bles down into the Western Brook Pond fjord in Newfoundland’s Gros Morne National Park. Scene viewed from one of the boat tours that takes visitors throughout the pond area.

Phone cameras have revolutionized photography The introduction of cameras in cell phones has made quite a difference in photography these days. No longer do people have to consider exposure settings, focus-ing and other technical issues, they simply have to point their phone at the subject and push the but-ton. Some phones even correct for camera movement. In some cases all this is good, in others it’s bad! What this has done is open up the world of photography for millions more people because they don’t have to learn anything about pho-tography just how to simply operate their phone and the phone manu-facturers have done a good job on that, so good that even two-year-olds can do it! In addition, it is relatively easy these days to le those pictures somewhere to keep them. Apple computers allow a per-son to hold their iPhone near the computer and it will recognise the connection and allow the person to just click a button and the image is downloaded to the computer. What could be easier? Photo processing software pro-grams like Photoshop and those developed by individual camera manufacturers allow you to tweak your photos to improve exposure, sharpness and other important things like cropping. I used to spend a lot of time in the darkroom making prints from nega-tives that other people shot and sometimes it was quite a chore and a challenge. Today some of those functions take just a few seconds with today’s photographic software. This photographic method is now available on tablets too and I still nd it amusing to see someone with what looks like a book pointing it at a subject to capture a picture. Now nearly all the technical is-sues have been solved with these digital specials and all one really has to learn is composition and the ability to re the shutter at exactly the right time. When digital cameras rst came out they were very slow. I remem-ber another teacher asking me to photograph a model car race because he was not having any success. If I pushed the shutter when the cars stated, the camera did not record the image until the few sec-ond race was over. Of course the technology has improved consider-ably since then. One major benet of digital photography is you do not have to pay for lm. Even a great company like Kodak went out of business because people no longer needed lm. With camera phones or any digital camera for that fact, you can shoot away and make as many pictures as you want without having to con-sider the cost of lm and whether you have enough with you. In the newspaper business we had an expression “Shoot lots!” It was important because everything changes in fractions of a second. When I rst started shooting high school sports in my teens I had to wait until the basketball player reached the top of his jump to make my picture. Now with digital you can shoot several in the same situation and pick the best to use. Just about everyone has a cell phone these days so there is a much better chance of people re-cording spot news events because their camera is handy! That applies to camping events as well. We always welcome pictures of camping events in Canada and are surprised that more people do not submit photos to us for possible publication in Scope. If you are at a camping event why not pull out your cell phone and make a picture. To send it to us simply email it as an attachment to harold.merton@yahoo.ca along with a description of what the picture shows and who is in the picture. You will notice that we give photo credits to everyone who submits pictures to us to share with our readers. Don’t think your pix are not good enough for us because I will per-sonally tweak them so they look their best! Apple’s iPhone is just one of a number of cell phones on the mar-ket today designed to be not only a phone but also a digital camera capable of producing great qual-ity photos.Marking 60 years of publication!Scope RV Camping MagazineSpring 2025 - Page 97P H O T G R A P H Y BY HAROLD MERTON A.P.BY HAROLD MERTON A.P.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t join in. Live music of every kind is just around the corner, particularly along George Street in St. John’s, and at bars and festivals across the province. The theatre scene is vibrant, with more than a dozen troupes perform-ing everything from smaller com-munity shows to full-scale musical extravaganzas.Experience the Food With local restaurants and chefs winning national and international awards, it’s clear that food culture in Newfoundland and Labrador has never been more delicious. World-class, local chefs have opened new and exciting dining spots, featuring top-notch home-grown ingredients. Then there are the “CFAs” (Come-From-Aways), bringing their own culinary traditions and avours. While St. John’s is the hotspot, there are celebrated restaurants across the province as well as regu-lar food and music festivals. Page 98 - Spring 2025Scope RV Camping MagazineNewfoundland has a reputation of being friendly continuedLocals and visitors alike can enjoy many festivals in Newfoundland. Here a group is pictured at the Roots and Roars Festival. Newfoundland and Labrador Travel photos.“Stillness of Water” by Newfound-land photographer Curtis Meeker.Colourful Characters Newfoundland and Labrador is home to some of the country’s n-est artists and performers. In fact, St. John’s has one of the highest concentrations of writers, musi-cians, actors, and comedians in the country – although they have been known to loan them out to the rest of Canada. Take indie-rock band Hey Ro-setta!. Known for their energized live shows, the band incorporates piano, violin, and cello into the tradi-tional four-piece rock setup, creat-ing a unique sound. When it comes to comedy, Gemini award winner Rick Mercer knows how to get a laugh or two. Comedian Shaun Majumder has created an annual festival – The Gathering – in his hometown of Burlington Writers Lisa Moore, Wayne Johnston, and Michael Crummey continue their storytelling tradition as critically acclaimed authors. Mary and Christopher Pratt are two of the province’s internationally recognized visual artists, and E.J. Pratt, one of the foremost Canadian poets of the early 20th century, also called this place home. Newfoundland is a very unique and interesting part of Canada and if you’ve never been there you should consider it in your future travel plans. Story courtesy Newfoundland and Labrador TravelViking reenacters at L’ance aux Meadows in Northern Newfound-land.Newfoundland food tour by Rug-ged Rock Media.

Spring 2025 - Page 99Scope RV Camping MagazineEDITORIAL PAGE - 60 YEARS OF PUBLICATION continueddearly when the suit reaches a judge. This publication has just one person working on it now - me. My wife Elizabeth was co-pub-lisher for years but unfortunately I lost her to cancer about four years ago. My family members help with some part-time activi-ties but for all intents and pur-poses Scope is just me. I do have a lot of spare time and I now devote a lot of that time into producing stories and pictures for the publication. On the internet I am not limited to a specic number of pages that is determined by advertising rev-enue. My only limitation is 100 pages which is the maximum that the software program we use to post it on the internet can accommodate. I don’t anticipate we will reach another 60 years but I will con-tinue until I cannot any longer or someone comes along and buys Canada’s rst & oldest con-sumer RV camping magazine! Thank you good readers and advertisers for allowing us to reach this great milestone! “The Big RV Show” is known by many names. Some also know it as the Motor Home Show but no matter what you call it the Big RV show will celebrate their 50th anniversary this year when it runs from February 27 to March 2nd, 2025 at the Toronto International Centre. Hundreds of RVs of all types will be displayed by what the show refers to as “trusted dealers”. Manufacturer reps will also be in attendance to help visitors with their questions. You can also purchase acces-sories, attend seminars and learn about camping destinations. There is a chance for you to win your new RV payments for 12 months (up to $5,000) if you pur-chase a new RV at the show. The draw is sponsored by Obit Insurance (formerly Wayfarer Insurance). The show is owned and operated by the Canadian Recreational Ve-hicle Manufacturer’s Association and has reached a milestone with their 50th anniversary. One feature many visitors really like is there is plenty of free parking adjacent to the huge International Centre building complex and for this reason many out-of-town RV-ers head to the show at the end of February, a time when many of us are getting cabin fever after little or no camping all winter. The Toronto Spring Show and Sale was originated by a small group of RV industry people way back 50 years ago. A Canadian motorhome distribu-tor, an RV accessories rep and an employee of a Toronto automobile dealership teamed up to create one of the rst and best shows in the country. It was later purchased by two industry associations and nally became the sole property of CRVA. Adult admissions (18+) are $10 Thursday and Friday and $17 Sat-urday and Sunday, Children 17 and under are free. Hours are 10 am to 7 pm Thurs-day and Friday, 10 am to 7 pm Sat-urday and 10 am to 5 pm Sunday. You can purchase tickets on-line at the bigrvshow.ca. You access the show at entrances: 1, 2/3, and 5. For further information you may contact: Shannonocallaghan@thebigrvshow.caThe Big RV Show runs February 7 to March 2 at the International Centre in Mississauga, Ontario.Scope welcomes new dealer advertiserHitch n’ Go of Delhi, Ontario Scope is pleased to welcome a new dealer advertiser to our pages this issue. Hitch n’ Go of Delhi, Ontario are dealers for Redwood, Crossroads, Dutchman, Keystone and Forest River. The staff are active RVers and have over 30 years experience in the industry. They received excel-lent recommendations by other RV dealers in Southern Ontario. We welcome them to our pages. For further information please see their ad on page 73 of this issue. Hitch n’ Go located in Delhi, Ontario.

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