(BPT) - As beautiful summer weather gradually makes its appearance across the nation, thoughts turn to summer travel plans. Americans enjoy the fun and relaxation of traveling: 77 percent of domestic trips are for leisure purposes, according to the U.S. Travel Association. If you want to vacation with friends or family, hitting the pavement for a road trip can’t be beat, and with a few money-saving tips and organization tricks, you’ll plan an awesome trip packed with memories.

(NAPSI)—If you’ve ever thought about taking steps to prepare for a possible disaster, you’re not alone. Nationally, some 8 million Americans are doing some “prepping” to protect their families in case something bad comes their way.

(BPT) - Americans are falling in love with Mother Nature all over again, which could be why ownership of boats and recreational vehicles is more popular than ever. If you own a boat or RV, do you use it frequently, or is it sitting in your driveway? It’s time to get the most out of it, and with a few simple ideas, you’ll be able to hit the road and create some wonderful family memories.

It’s never too early to make your summer travel plans. DreamPlanGo, the popular website and social community devoted to bringing travelers vacation ideas and trip inspiration, surveyed a cross-section of Americans and found some interesting answers to that age-old question, “What are you doing this summer?”

While Thursday's opening day at Country Thunder was the shortest day concert-wise, there was no disappointment in the four acts that took the stage  – especially not when it came to headliner Brantley Gilbert. 

(NAPSI)—Technology continues to make road trips better. USB power adapters for all our gadgets, thermoelectric coolers for food and beverages, and affordable cameras that can withstand being dropped in the parking lot or dunked in the pool are helping to keep travelers comfortable and connected.

The first-ever Marana Main Street Festival was held over the weekend with plenty of entrants in the bed race and plenty of fun, food and sun in the streets. Spearheaded by town staff and local business owner Teri Murphy, the event is designed to familiarize residents with an area of Marana that was once considered downtown before the introduction of Interstate 10 in the 1960s cut through the area’s development plans.

The first-ever Marana Main Street Festival is coming to the Town on April 5-7. Spearheaded by town staff and local business owner Teri Murphy, the event is designed to familiarize residents with an area of Marana that was once considered downtown before the introduction of Interstate 10 in the 1960s cut through the area’s development plans.

Each year the Town of Marana holds signature events. These are staples of the community and are a great way to experience all the town has to offer.

Like many products and pursuits that have developed over the decades, recreational vehicles have come a long way from the tow-a-longs of the early to mid-20th century. Before motorized recreational vehicles hit the road, pulling a trailer behind your car or truck – loaded with food, sleeping and cooking gear – was the best way to get you and your family out of the city and into nature for a long weekend.

(BPT) - That time of year is almost here - pro football championship Sunday. According to the National Chicken Council’s 2012 Wing Report, the big game is the second biggest eating holiday after Thanksgiving. With the big game comes big prep and cleanup.

Have you ever seen a live alligator in Tucson? Meet Powder this Saturday and see this rare live albino alligator up close and personal. Powder will not be alone. There will also be a baby alligator, both available for pictures.  Come on out and take part in all the weekend’s festivities. Lazydays located at 3200 E. Irvington Road.

(BPT) - Whether it’s traveling during the holidays or commuting to and from work, Americans spend a lot of time in their vehicles – almost 540 hours a year according to a Roland Berger study. With so much time spent behind the wheel, it’s worth it to invest in the top gadgets to make your ride safer and more comfortable.

If you are seriously thinking about retirement, there are many things that need to be addressed, but one that is often overlooked is identifying what “retirement” means to you.  If you are single or a part of a couple, communication and prioritizing goals is key to a happy and less stressful retirement.

Oro Valley

MOVIES

A year after the shooting took place near Ina and Oracle roads at Gabrielle Giffords’ Congress on Your Corner event, some continue to grieve, some choose to forget, while others quietly remember, and stay out of the public’s eye.

With clouds of dust billowing in the rearview mirror as widespread fields of golden grasses covering vast Southern Arizona ranchland are passed, the final miles toward Cochise Stronghold Trailhead are covered along Ironwood Road.

Did you attend the Jan. 12 public tribute at the McKale Center? If so, please share your thoughts and photos of the event by uploading them to editor@explorernews.com by 8 a.m. Monday, Jan. 17.

'Founding Fathers,' Constitution poster given to local school

Business signage has become a hot-button issue in Oro Valley.

Tucson chamber identifies its endorsements

This letter is in response to several articles that appeared in The Explorer recently regarding Arizona state parks. I firmly believe that all 27 Arizona state parks and the three natural areas, in the state park system, can and should remain open to the public seven days a week, based on the following key measures: