Issue 66 Campground

A Jackson County hearings officer has ruled against expansion plans at Hyatt Lake Resort, Oregon in a decision that could lead to the removal of cottages, a restaurant and other improvements.

In a 53-page decision mailed out Friday, Donald Rubenstein concluded that small cabins referred to by the resort owner as recreational vehicles are in fact dwellings that potentially pose a fire danger for the resort and the surrounding forest.

He said the resort 20 miles east of Ashland resembles a high-density residential

development with some units only 7 feet apart.

Rubenstein concluded county planners erred in allowing 22 of the cabins at the resort. He rejected a request to add an additional 13 spaces.

Rubenstein acknowledged that his decision, which is subject to appeal, could be an economic blow to the developers of the resort.

"The owner finds himself in an unenviable position having invested large sums of money and effort which are jeopardized by this decision," he wrote.

Neighbors had appealed

Jackson County's approval of a limited expansion at Hyatt Lake Resort, which is operated by the same group as nearby Campers Cove. Owners of the resort, known as Campers Cove Resort LLC, also appealed a county planning decision, saying they were entitled to additional changes they've requested.

Rubenstein reviewed more than 900 pages from the two sides and the county.

Bob McNeely, one of the resort owners, said previously that he had already sold units that look like cabins on the 22 Continued Page 3

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Dennis Macready Editor/ Joint Publisher The report from ARVC on page 20 and 21 along with Brian Schaeffer's comments from the Texas Association on Page 17 are encouraging to say the least!

Overall it seems the majority of Campground & RV Parks are faring 2009 and the recession pretty well. Of course, not all would agree, some campgrounds are finding things increasingly difficult and some have even gone to the wall.

I would suggest those that are having difficulty reach out to their state associations for help and advice.

I trust you will all enjoy this issue

The Carolinas Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds will hold a quarterly board meeting, followed by a regional meeting, on Oct. 6 at River Bottom Farms and Campground, Swansea, South Carolina.

ARVC members who are unabable to attend.

The regional meeting will begin at 4 p.m. and includes a free web seminar on “PCI Compliance” for CPO credit, given by MCPS for Campgrounds starting at 5pm. The seminar will be available to Carolina

The quarterly board meeting will begin at 10 a.m.

CARVC members are asked to RSVP their attendance by Oct. 2 at (800) 906-0907 or emailing carvc@mgmt4u.com

I consider myself fortunate. You’ve undoubtedly heard about being at the right place at the right time.

Over a year ago I heard about the launch of a new publication called “Campground and RV Park E-News”. This information came at a precipitous time. I was considering sending out a monthly company newsletter to advertise our business. We have acquired a list of some 3.600 e-mail addresses from several industry sources.

I spoke at length to the publisher and decided, instead to use the ENews to accomplish the task.

I became one of its earliest advertisers and was invited to write a column for the publication. This became a wise decision.

Advertising in the e-News has vastly increased my reach into the Campground industry.

Our company has become well known and the costs are easily justified by the returns. We run a weekly ½ page ad, sometimes increasing it to a full page when we want to emphasize a promotion or a webinar.

Several of my industry compatriots have also been advertising with the E-News and have been meeting with similar success.

Our relationships with Gary and with Dennis, the editor, have gone beyond business. We are friends and correspondents learning about the events shaping the industry and sharing information. Of course, we process their credit cards and they cosponsor our webinars.

In this economy, what more can a business desire for its advertising dollar than responses from readership?

I’d advise any industry business seeking for find a place to advertise to seriously consider the “Campground & RV Park ENews” Art Lieberman President MCPS For Campgrounds.

Continued from Page 1 recreational vehicle sites and was in the process of selling four more on 13 additional sites when he was ordered to stop by the county.

McNeely has 21 days to appeal Rubenstein's decision to the Oregon Land Use Board of Appeals.

Pam Hardy, a Bend attorney representing the neighbors' group, called Southern Oregon Citizens for Responsible Land Use Planning, said, "Obviously, we're pleased with the decision, and we're anticipating an appeal."

Sandy Speasl, a member of the land-use planning group, said she thought the hearings officer did a very thorough job. She said she hadn't known what to expect going into the landuse challenge, but was happy with the results.

"To me it means that sometimes the little people have a voice in things,"

Speasl said.

The resort owners wanted to install recreational vehicles that resemble small cabins on 35 spaces, but county planners determined they were legally entitled to only 22 spaces that can have water, electricity and sewage hook-ups. Those spaces have what the owner refers to as park models.

But Rubenstein wrote, "Park models are not recreational vehicles for purposes of land-use planning, and the staff erred in finding otherwise," He added that crowding the cottages together with 120-gallon propane tanks next to each unit posed a significant fire danger.

"The absence of setbacks and other standards that are conventionally applied to high-density residential developments substantially increases the likelihood that once the unit is substantially involved in a fire, nearby decks,

cabanas, and park models will ignite as well," Rubenstein wrote.

He also found the cottages would generate more sewage than typical recreational vehicles.

Other improvements to the property — including construction of 30 recreational sites without water and sewer, a cabin, a workshop and a restaurant — will require approval by the U.S. government because some of the development falls on federal land, Rubenstein wrote.

The opinion said the disputed cabins are permanent or semipermanent buildings, as opposed to recreational vehicles which are temporary.

The park models also have structures such as garages or cabanas that aren't typically built next to recreational vehicles, he wrote.

Referring to the Web site of Nor'wester Industries Inc. of Washington, which produces the cabins, Rubenstein noted the manufacturer refers to the units as "destination vacation homes" rather than recreational vehicles.

Glenn Munsell, who lives on Hyatt Prairie Road, said he agreed with Rubenstein's decision but wasn't ready to celebrate because it could be appealed.

"We're just kind of waiting to see what happens next," he said.

Munsell said he had maintained all along that McNeely has built a highdensity residential park that goes well beyond the original idea of the resort.

"It's really not an RV park," Munsell said. "There are cabins or houses and the density is terrible."

By Damian Mann Mail Tribune www.mailtribune.com

This year's show will also feature an outdoor display of new RVs and a special “green” RV display sponsored by General RV and Winnebago for an even bigger selection.

The Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds (MARVAC) is sponsoring the 20th annual Fall Detroit Camper RV Show, Sept. 30 through Oct. 4 at the Rock Financial Showplace in Novi.

More than 200 new recreation vehicles will be on display, including folding campers, motorhomes, travel trailers, truck campers and fifth wheel travel trailers. Special discounts

will be offered at the show.

Booths featuring parts and accessories, campground information, on site RV financing and RV rentals make this the complete RV show experience.

At the show, enter to win the Ultimate MIS Race Experience package from Michigan International Speedway. Includes tickets, camping and VIP access (valued at nearly $3,000).

A “select your discount”

coupon is available on www.marvac.org at southeast Michigan Kroger stores and area newspapers.

With this special coupon, consumers can choose one of three discounts offered — $2 off adult admission any day; senior admission for $5 on Wednesday or Thursday, or 2-for-1 admittance coupon on Friday.

Over the last several weeks we have outlined how to effectively establish a campground’s image through the use of on-site signage, landscaping, and branding. Now, our attention shifts to advertisement.

Capturing a potential guest’s interest, while delivering a consistent message, is an essential step to maximizing your efforts and investment.

Brochures and digital media are a great way to stay in touch with past guests and make contact with new ones.

Properly designed advertisements will positively influence the perception of your campground by building loyalty; strengthening credibility, and reinforcing a theme.

plans, amenities lists, maps, and recreational information your advertisement will become a useful tool and reference so that a reader will be encouraged to keep it, click on the link, or save it as a bookmark.

Abundant use of photography and high quality site plans will help drive home your message in a quick and friendly way.

Testing has shown that an average reader will look at photography and illustrations long before comprehending other content.

Headlines grab far more attention than even the shortest paragraphs and are a good option to convey information to readers who only skim material.

A quality photograph of a family playing and relaxing around a campfire will instantly tell a story that could never be described in a space of equal size.

Let the imagery speak.

No amount of text, however well written, will convey the experience your campground provides.

By utilizing the logo, descriptors, and color palate established during the planning stages, an effective and unified marketing strategy can be employed across a variety of mediums.

Messages should be direct, legible, and to the point. To accommodate an average attention span it is important to prioritize and focus on only a few objectives.

Reinforce your established theme quickly. To personalize the message, use emotional statements such as “Our resort will engage your family’s imagination and provide the luxury they deserve”.

Suggesting potential campers look up a campground or resort’s website is a cost effective way to provide additional resources.

Consider providing a call to action or an incentive to make further contact.

Offering an exclusive and discounted rate can do wonders to motivate a potential guest.

Regardless of your target audience, the power of a good brochure cannot be overestimated. With the right artistic guidance, it is possible to deliver your message and establish your theme with attention capturing visual impact.

Establish the sense of legitimacy and success that modern campers demand.

Check out the competition.

Start your effort today… and get a leg up.

Keep an eye out for us next week.

Written by Adam Shissler and Don Westphal Please check out the website at www.dcwestphal.com or contact us at 248 651 5518

By providing seasonal rate information, attractive site

requirements.

I am a quick learner, have very good computer skills, experience working with money and people.

I am 21 years of age, have an outward personality and am happy to work flexible hours.

My name is Amber Grell and I have recently relocated to Nashville TN.

Please contact me should you have a position available.

402 649 0326.

As a preference I would love to work in the Campground industry in reception where I believe my skills would suit the job

Editor’s note: Amber is known to the owners of Campground & RV Park E-News and comes very highly recommended.

The statement appeared to be a dramatic reversal from the governor's stance in recent weeks, when his staff said that 100 of the state's 279 parks would close to cut $14 million from the state park system's budget.

ARNOLD — Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger announced Friday that all of California's state parks — including inter-nationally famous gems such as Calaveras Big Trees State Park near Arnold — will stay open this year.

But park advocates did not celebrate Friday's news, noting that the governor still plans to cut the park system by $14 million this fiscal year and that reduced hours, longer seasonal closures and reductions in maintenance and staffing will all impact park visitors.

Office politics are undesirable in any workplace. Here are some suggestions to help you work through some situations that commonly occur.

Don’t be knocking the boss. Even if you don’t really mean what you are saying and are just blowing off steam, nothing can create problems faster.

By Jude Minar Politics can be found in many workplaces. Some work places have a higher degree of politics than others.

improving your employee’s communication skills through courses you can create a more cohesive work environment.

There are some tricks you can learn to help you deal with those politics if it’s part of your work environment.

Office or workplace politics is a fancy name for employees not getting along.

There are generally four types of personalities that can be found in the work place.

It’s more common than you might think. After all when you put such a variety of personalities and work ethics together there’s bound to be some conflict.

A little bit of conflict can be healthy and keep people on their toes but too much office politics leads to stress, poor job performance, and dissatisfaction with the work environment which then leads to high turnover rates.

The type that is outgoing, expressive and need recognition.

A great deal of work politics can be resolved through communication. By

The type that takes control and are strong willed and impatient.

The type that are stable, predictable, hard working and good listeners.

And lastly the type that are analytical, quality orientated, good planners, and systematic about what they do.

You can quickly see why some of these work place personalities might clash and result in office politics.

Complaining to co-workers doesn’t do anything but stir things up at work and get you in big trouble. If the issue is serious, then talk directly to your boss. If it’s not then keep your mouth shut and carry on.

If you work with someone that really rubs you the wrong way perhaps it’s time to put your ego on the back burner and take the high ground with this other person. No matter how tough it is, if you must interact with the individual always stay civil. You can curse and carry on in the privacy of your home. But at the same time do not let the other person bully or intimidate you. Always hold your ground.

If you are in a situation where a co-worker is taking your ideas and turning them into her own then taking the credit for them then perhaps it’s time to not so easily provide the information. You can still share them but never when it’s on a one to one. Always make sure there is someone else around that hears you pass on that great idea.

If you have a boss that’s hard to get along with because they are either rude or arrogant but you enjoy the place you work then don’t let your boss know it bothers you. If someone knows something gets your goat they are more likely to do it. The more confident you get the less it should bother you and don’t let the boss see it intimidates you. This one is a bit tricky but don’t let on it bothers you and certainly don’t share that information with your co-workers.

If you have slackers at work then live with it unless it’s your job to whip them into shape. Do your job and let your manager worry about your co-workers.

That said it doesn’t mean you have to pick up the slack on their jobs. If it’s really a problem then talk to your manager but you best be comfortable that it will be a confidential conversation. Don’t become the cause of the work politics. You’ll be odd one out.

Office and work politics are something that you need to try to avoid. It will only lead to stress and uncomfortable situations.

Don’t get caught in it! Stay out of disputes that don’t concern you and handle issues that do concern you on a one to one not through the office grapevine or gossip chains.

Politics aren’t that difficult to deal with if you use common sense and don’t let others intimidate you!

By Chris Trainor The Wild Bunch isn’t exactly wild.

But they do have a good time.

According to a report in the Index Journal, the Wild Bunch is a group of RV enthusiasts, 100 members strong , who travel around the country in their motor coaches and have rallies at different motor home resorts and certain scenic locations. Numerous members of the Bunch are on Lake Greenwood this weekend for a rally atB. Cane Creek owner Mel Weaver talked about the resort’s visitors and their rally.

"This is just a group of friends that have met over the years at different RV parks,” Weaver said, surveying the scene at Cane Creek. “This particular group is called the Wild Bunch. This group has 100 members. They told me that in an average rally they will usually have 15-20 (motor coaches).

We’ve got almost 30 (coaches) here this weekend, so they are really pleased with the turnout.”

States represented at this weekend’s rally include South Carolina, Texas, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, Georgia, New York, Michigan and more.

Wild Bunch member Gene Taggart, of Bluffton, discussed the club and how he got involved.

“The Wild Bunch is about 15 years old,” Taggart said.

“I was the 64th member out of 100. They try to keep it at 100 and they try to keep it at an active 100. If you don’t go to at least one rally every two years you get kicked out.

“So far we haven’t been kicked out.”

Taggart said the RV culture, particularly as it pertains to groups like the Wild Bunch, in which $500,000-$1 million motor coaches are common, is one that is naturally enamored with travel.

“Well, we are all travelers and everybody’s been everywhere,” Taggart said.

“On a personal level, I think our best rally was up through Montana and into the Canadian rockies. We drove all the way across Canada. In fact, we’ve been to Canada twice.”

that was close enough to take a day trip up into the mountains and this is (close enough). It’s just an ideal location for us. We love this lake. Lake Greenwood is one of the prettiest lakes we’ve ever seen.”

Taggart’s wife, Gloria, said Wild Bunch members were going to take buses into town during the rally to eat at local restaurants and to shop.

“We have several events in local restaurants,” she said.

“We are also going (to Uptown Greenwood) on the bus one day for people to walk around downtown.”

Taggart said Cane Creek is among the more picturesque resorts in which the group has had a rally.

Gene Taggart said he enjoys having so many “neighbors” from all around the United States.

“We love Cane Creek,” he said. “We really like Greenwood and all the little towns around here. We wanted to be somewhere

“Obviously, it’s pretty good,” he said. “If you put on a rally, these folks will come out. It is a real plus to be able to see these people. We know

almost all of these people from other rallies and they are all members of our club. What that means is that they have traveled to the same places we have traveled. We have friends and ‘neighbors’ all up and down the coast and a few even out west.”

Weaver, who opened Cane Creek in 2008, said he is pleased with the progress the resort has made and the amenities it offers. As he sat outside his own motor coach, perched at the highest point at Cane Creek, and gazed down upon the rally, Weaver said he was satisfied with the way things have turned out.

“I’m amazed, because I really don’t have a creative bone in my body,” Weaver said. “I think (the resort) came out better that I ever pictured it in my mind’s eye.”

Jon Jarvis, a 30-year veteran of the National Park Service, and who has served since 2002 as regional director of the agency’s Pacific West Region where he was responsible for 54 national parks in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, California, Nevada, Hawaii and the Pacific Islands of Guam, Saipan and American Samoa, is the new director of the NPS, confirmed Thursday by the U.S. Senate.

"America's National Park System is a gift from past generations to this and succeeding generations. I look forward to working with [Interior Secretary Ken] Salazar, the

Congress, our partners, and the extraordinary employees of the National Park Service as we prepare for the next century of stewardship and excellent visitor experiences," says Mr. Jarvis.

Mr. Jarvis has served as superintendent of Mount Rainier National Park in Ashford, Wash., Craters of the Moon National Monument in Idaho, and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve in Alaska.

A trained biologist, he was also chief of natural and cultural resources at North Cascades National Park.

By Tracie Markowich Wishon Village RV Resort, elevation 6,772 feet, located in the High Sierras of California. A weekend/summer getaway, fishing/hunting haven, and a home to nature lovers evolved from Bill Jasper’s love of the land back in 1960. With a mixture of history and heritage adding to the charm, Wishon Village RV Resort is a place many have been returning to for over 40 years.

Kris and Katie Oneida, owners and operators since 2006 are adding their own touch to Wishon Village while keeping the heritage intact. Katie is the youngest granddaughter of Bill and Kathryn Jasper, who owned and ran the park from 1960 to 2000. The Jasper’s daughter Dianne Breckenridge Rankin was a part of the business from 1967 to 2000, at which time she purchased the park from her parents. In 2006 the Oneida’s became sole owners with visions and expectations of their own.

There is a passion for the business, the land, and the environment in which to

Courtright Lake only 7 miles away raise their 18-month-old son, Braeden.

Wishon Village RV Resort has 96 Full hookup RV sites with 30 and 50amp service available. Jasper had the foresight in 1960 to build spacious sites, even by today’s standards.

Enjoying his own privacy when camping, he built his park accordingly. Campers have plenty of room to park their RV, vehicle, and boat, enjoy lunch at the picnic table, a campfire at night, and still have room for a patio tent if desired.

Stonewalls were built behind and along some of the sites adding a feel of yesteryear. “My grandfather, with the help of nephews, built every wall in here. They brought in rock and cement stacking it all by hand. “The walls were completed in 1978” Katie told me as I commented on their beauty.

and rocks in the center of the park with an amazing view of the Sierras. There are two RV rental units on the property as well with hopes of adding cabins in the future.

The “backyard” of Wishon Village RV Resort is a wilderness experience that all can enjoy. Wishon Lake, where fishing is plentiful, is one mile away. Here, the RV Resort mans a dock with Fishing and Pontoon boat rentals. Other fishing enjoyment can be found at Courtright Lake just seven miles from the park offering a scene of beautiful granite domes, and four wheeling adventures.

There are 26 Tent sites with wooden platforms situated among the trees Kris, Katie and Braeden Oneida

The impressive stone wall

The Oneida’s are intent in making Wishon Village RV Resort a haven for many.

They are involved with their state and National ARVC. Kris holds a seat on the CalARVC board and Wishon Village RV Resort will be participating in the $50 weekend coming up. The discounted offer has brought in over 20 reservations as of last week. Information gained through seminars and networking and the savings through membership discounts has been a great experience for the Oneidas.

Since ownership, the Oneidas have updated their website, www.WishonVillage.com adding information about the area, promotions, and activities. Pulling from a population of 1 million in the Fresno and surrounding area, the Oneida’s feel this is the best way to reach out to the public and let them know what their park has to offer.

The general store was also changed adding apparel

same family remain as owners of the park.

Wishon Lake only 1 mile away for boat rentals and gift items to the groceries, tackle, bait, health and beauty items. A recreation room, former bar, was renovated adding windows and shortening the counter, a perfect area for Monday night potlucks.

Work on the grounds has

also been improved with new picnic tables and repaving in some areas.

Trees are being added and removed where necessary as the Oneidas continue to upgrade the park. The “regulars” spoke appreciatively of the Oneida’s improvements and are happy to have the

While I am certain no words are adequate to describe Wishon Village RV Resort or the feeling that seems to secure a hold on you once you arrive, I find it necessary to try. As you wind through the High Sierras you are wowed by the abundance of wildlife and the tall sequoias as they stretch towards the bluest sky I have ever seen.

You begin to decompress… the senses become clear… you arrive and are welcomed by the simple, and somehow stately, brown storefront with its swinging screen door - You feel the nostalgia upon entering.

Boat rentals After two weeks in the area I understand why, once discovered, people return to Wishon Village RV Resort year after year. It is a haven, a paradise. I spoke with folks that have made Wishon Village their choice for summer fun for 15, 25 and even 40 years.

Soon you will be able to see why by taking the virtual tour on www.CampersView.com

Art Lieberman Since the campground trade show season is upon us, I thought I’d dedicate my column this week to the many exhibitors who show their goods at the Campground Owners Conventions.

As one who attends these conventions as a service business, I can’t tell you how much I admire the businesses that sell goods at these shows. Dependent of the variety of their merchandise, it can sometimes take them hours to unpack their cases, set up their shelving, signs and lighting in preparation for their customers.

Most attendees at shows don’t realize the monotonous, repetitive labor that these exhibitors go through at each show they attend.

The groundwork begins months before the actual event by deciding which show to attend and how much, or how few items to bring and display. Some of the exhibitors at campground shows market “variety” items for campgrounds stores, ranging from sundries, to shirts, to lighting, to campground utility items, to foodstuffs. These items may have to be shipped

into a venue in advance and stored or held either by the exhibit center or by the hosting venue such as a hotel. Then after the show, they must be shipped, either back to the exhibitor’s facility or to the next venue for yet another show. The word for this is DRAYAGE, which means a trucking company freight charge for the pick up or delivery of a container.

Our company’s display is often extremely simple. It usually consists of our banner, our little cashless scrip ATM machine, another POS credit card terminal, several small signs, some handouts and giveaway promotional pens. Everything fits into 2 small boxes and the box housing the rolled-up banner. We drive to most of our shows and leave our Philadelphia office to the shows that require air-travel to ship these good to our western trade shows such as Wisconsin, TACO and Rev Up in Reno.

The one exception is ARVC’s Insites, where we pay the costs.

There, we have to deal with the exhibit company, called the Show Dresser in the industry. They set up the booths, the booth signs, the table and chairs, the electricity and any other item desired by exhibitors for their display.

Continued next page

Continued from previous page My first encounter with show dressers was when a company I owned took a booth at the Home Computer Show at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in NYC about 25 years ago.

They were expensive to deal with. When I began to produce my own trade shows in the video industry in Atlantic City in the mid 1980s I found a show dresser that wasn’t expensive for my exhibitors.

Besides the drayage costs, the booth setup costs can really add dramatically to the cost of displaying goods for an exhibitor. Add the costs of personal transportation, hotels, food and membership in the association and attendees should really appreciate what exhibitors must endure to show their goods.

And finally, there’s the TIME that’s involved.

Once reservations are made, such as the booth space, hotel reservations and travel, there’s the actual time to obtain the stored freight, open it and set up the booth.

Most attendees don’t get to see what goes on behind the scenes at shows such as ARVC or the Northeast Show, two of the larger shows. As an exhibitor who can set his booth up in 15 minutes, I sometimes watch with admiration at the displays

that take several hours to erect and several more hours to re-pack at shows end. It is a daunting task.

Can you just imagine what is involved in bringing a park model or cabin to a trade show to sell?

So when you attend your Campground Owners show this fall or winter, show the exhibitors some love, especially those whose booth contains hundreds of items.

If you’re going to the ARVC show, drop into the Leisure Systems portion of the show and see the items that are being sold bearing the Yogi logos. Since Leisure Systems usually holds their own show, this might be a unique opportunity for you.

These shows represent a unique opportunity to view and purchase the thousands of items which might make you money or enhance the appearance or activities of your campground.

(Art Lieberman is President of MCPS for Campgrounds, a credit card processor sponsored by Woodforest Bank NA. Art has been in the Credit Card industry for nearly 12 years. Art has been conducting webinars online and seminars on credit cards in many State and Regional Association Conventions. He can be contacted at art@mcpsforcampgrounds.com

The latest product to hit the campground industry is receiving major interest by owners who see these bikes as an opportunity for good revenue by renting them to campers.

The bikes are not only "green" environmentally

friendly but are safe and extremely economical with a battery charge range of up to 25 miles.

Campgrounds can purchase the bikes outright for as low as $1195 ensuring an excellent and fast return on investment.

Speed: Up to 16 mph Range: Up to 25 Miles Motor: 350 watt brushless motor Driving Sytem: Powerful 48 volt front hub drive System built into the front wheel!

Charging Time: 4-6 hours for pennies Battery: 48 volt 14 AH sealed lead battery acid

Battery Charger: 110 volt smart charger, UL Listed Tires: Front 16 x 2.5" and rear pneumatic 10 x 3.5" Color: White and Black (Custom Paint Jobs Also) Size: 40" L x 26.8 "Wx 5.7" H Weight: 93 lbs.

Comes With: headlight, taillight, and horn. (Basket Optional)

The questions, spoken by the tall, thoughtful supervisor were simple enough; "What did you enjoy most about the day and how has this experience effected you?"

They were questions I later realized we should ask ourselves every day.

As I listened to the 15 inner city kids, many who had never traveled west of Federal street from their homes in Denver, I was amazed at how this one day had effected all of us.

The young adults, from 15 to 18 years old, had demonstrated leadership ability and had been interviewed by their peers for the Safe City leadership program, started by the Mayor of Denver's office after the particularly violent summer of 1993. They are paid to work on inner city initiatives, in libraries, recreation centers and the like. They have rigid criteria relating to community service, attendance, grades and behavior that they must abide by or face loss of their position on the team.

"This day has made me feel closer to all of you, my real family in many ways," said one.

"It's been an amazing day and has helped me realize I can do things I never before thought possible," said another.

"It helped me escape from the stress and I feel in the city and really appreciate the natural beauty," was another's perspective.

Each member, in turn, reflected on our day rafting the Arkansas River and now camping in Jellystone Park in Castle Rock. In doing so they revealed a bit of their soul and emotions that had until now not been explored. The blazing campfire added a touch of drama to the thoughtful comments and the group began to bond as never before.

For most of these diverse youth; black, Hispanic, native American, even Iraqi the day had begun at 5 am as they scrambled to catch buses, cajoled rides from friends and family, somehow making their way to the downtown office building where they would be met by volunteers with SUVs stuffed with tents, sleeping bags (donated by Coleman), marshmallows, chocolate bars and graham crackers (for s'mores of course).

The three hour drive to Salida gave them all time to think (and sleep) as the day they had dreamed of began to unfold.

This first adventure for the Safe City program, into the wild, was organized by Choose Outdoors, a Pine, Colorado based national

nonprofit working with the US Forest Service, numerous outdoor companies and trade associations, nonprofits and elected officials to increase support for all forms of outdoor recreation in America.

The trip was done with the help of Rotary Club of Conifer, SOS Outreach, CityWild, Big City Mountaineers and Wonderful Outdoor World in a unique collaboration focused on making the most of their unique resources. A full day of rafting was followed by a night under the stars at Jellystone Park/The Outdoor Experience in Castle Rock that included a native American drumming ceremony and mountain man story telling by the campfire for the ultimate "social networking" day.

This was one aspect of Choose Outdoors effort to bring the recreation community together and

create a national initiative involving a spectrum of partners focused on the importance of outdoor recreation.

Why is this type of engagement of our youth so important? Young people are spending on average six hours a day looking at a screen of some sort-tv, internet, video games etc and as a result there are ever increasing health issues like obesity, diabetes, and attention deficit disorder that we are seeing across the country.

So this model program, designed to be replicated across the country, has begun the task of getting more kids to experience the great outdoors and more importantly to love itbecause if they won't who will?

For more information contact Bruce Ward at Choose Outdoors: Bruceward1@gmail.com

By Larry Many of us began to take notice of environmental problems involving water when pictures of burning rivers appeared on the evening news. We were slowly but surely given to understand the dangerous condition of our nation’s surface water, shoreline water, underground water, rainwater and wastewater.

Burning rivers became not funny but tragic. There were discoveries of serious damage and birth defects to unborn children, along with links between contaminated water and diseases such as cancer. Warnings that mercury in the water was absorbed by fish and then by people who ate the fish set us back on our heels.

Acid rain became more than a curious phenomenon. Discovery of e-coli bacteria in wells ended any lingering romantic myths about trusting nature.

Perhaps the greatest reality check came in the form of federal legislation and regulations of the 1970’s. Those wonderful scientists who were researching the problems began recommending solutions. Congress, the EPA, the states, the water and the wastewater industries began acting on these recommendations and working together to solve the problems, not without considerable pushing and shoving. That

is where we are today: working on solutions.

Federal law and regulations provide the lead and set the direction as to how the problems are to be addressed. The focus was on stopping the dumping of sewage and industrial waste straight into rivers, lakes and underground water supplies without any treatment.

Funding of municipal sewage treatment plants and restrictions on industrial waste disposal were key to the strategy. These efforts produced results. 60% of the nation’s lakes, rivers and shorelines were deemed clean enough for fishing and eating of fish by 1998.

Get at the other 40% meant a shift of focus shifted to “non point source discharges”. These are a tougher nut to crack. Non point source discharges include such things as chemical runoff from agriculture, soil erosion, leaking underground gasoline storage tanks at service stations, landfills with toxic waste products, household dumping of poisons and sprays, and failing septic systems. The runoff from construction sites and the runoff from grime, grease, salt and sand on roads were identified as additional culprits. They even include the soap suds that go into storm drains from car washing and lawn fertilizers and grass clippings that wash into the storm sewers.

Identifying these indirect sources of water contamination is more easily identified than remedied.

The value of wetlands came into focus as one important method of protecting against chemical runoff from agricultural and erosion in the EPA report to Congress of 2000. Requiring linings under landfills and sewage lagoons is another form of protection. But the indirect sources of contamination that threaten water quality are so many and so varied that it will be a long time slow process getting them all under control. How to get them under control will be up to the states and local jurisdictions and, in the end, up to us as individuals.

The 2000 report to Congress led to federal mandates that states identify those rivers and lakes too polluted for safe fishing and swimming.

States are now required to • designate safe uses of public rivers, lakes and shorelines.

• establish water quality criteria.

• develop and implement anti-degradation policies and procedures that protect existing uses and keep clean water clean.

By the 1990’s the focus included upgraded standards for the treatment and quality of drinking water provided by the more than 160,000 public water systems – a story all in itself. (to be continued)

Paul Godin, president of the board of directors, said plans are under way to construct a 25-unit RV park next to the marina parking lot. He said it is hoped this amenity will reverse a recent trend of slumping marina profits.

"We figure if we run a 25site park for visitors only that we could kind of keep the tourists in Bathurst...This will allow us to more than break even...because if this thing goes through, we're going to start putting every floating device in the water again that was idle for the past two years like Odebay, the pontoons, the water taxi and excursions that we used to do."

"We had to find a way to make the marina profitable again...So we looked at the land and figured we could clean it up...and make an RV park," said Mr. Godin.

He said the project will cost approximately $100,000. He noted that infrastructure such as water and sewerage along with a dumping station is required.

Texas campgrounds and RV parks overall are experiencing strong occupancies and revenues, according to a report by the Texas Association of Campground Owners.

state experienced significant gains in both occupancy and revenue.

The executive of the Bathurst Marina hopes a recreational vehicle park will make the facility vibrant again.

Some parks in Central Texas lost some of their summer business due to unusually hot weather and a persistent drought that lowered lake and river levels. However, other parks across the

“The private park industry in Texas has fared quite well this year, despite the challenges posed by the recession and the drought,� says Brian Schaeffer, executive director and CEO of the Texas Association of Campground Owners (TACO).

With its wondrous display of birds, Steckel Park, located off Highway 150 north of Santa Paula, California is already a favorite RV stop. Now a local franchise of Kampgrounds of America has leased the park in a deal approved by the Board of Supervisors.

With about 460 Kampgrounds of America across the nation - 32 already in California - the lease agreement with a franchisee followed a protracted disagreement between the county and Far West Resorts that centered on upkeep and lengths of stay by park guests. As a county-

franchise is expected to pay Far West about $500,000 for the lease takeover, which runs through 2024 and can be extended a total of 25 more years.

owned park, Far West Resorts required final approval from Supervisors for the sale of the lease for the 72-site RV campground to Ventura Ranch KOA. The Kampgrounds of America will officially take over the park once its negotiations with Far West are finalized.

The Kampgrounds

The county is expected to get about 10 percent of the sale price. The KOA franchise will also pay the county a share of its revenues, starting with its minimum rent of $45,000 annually. In addition, Ventura Ranch KOA agreed to spend at least $1.5 million over the life of the lease on improvements to the park, another issue in the rift between the county and Far West.

Steckel Park will be the

first KOA in Ventura County. Its buyer plans to call the site “Ventura Ranch KOA at Steckel Park.”

The closest KOA campground now is in Acton, off Highway 114 in Antelope Valley. Steckel is KOA’s only location along the California coast, from San Diego all the way to Templeton in San Luis Obispo County.

It is expected that more amenities will be added to the park, which would likely bring a price increase that would not require county approval.

By Peggy Kelly, Full article: www.santapaulatimes.com

By Lucas Hartford- Evergreen USA RRG, Inc.

If it's Halloween, it's time for pumpkin carving.

the blade as much as possible.

Before you start carving that pumpkin, you need to find a good pattern or stencil first and then print it out and tape it to the pumpkin.

Take your time carving a pumpkin and never try to rush through it.

Then you carve the pumpkin. The Web site below offers some great pumpkin carving patterns.

Make sure that you are always extra careful with any knives or cutting utensils and that any children stay far away from

Enjoy this great online resources of pumpkin carving patterns and pumpkin carving stencils. If you are going to use a candle inside the pumpkin, make sure to blow out the candle when you go to sleep at night.

There are many websites to give you ideas available purely by searching the net.

kept pace with 2008 figures, despite the recession, according to an informal survey of parks by the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds (ARVC).

Linda Profaizer

Occupancy and revenue declines were primarily reported by parks in the Northeast, which experienced an unusually wet summer, and in parts of Texas, where a persistent drought significantly lowered water levels in rivers normally used for river tubing, kayaking and other water sports “The campground and RV park business continues to be the most vibrant segment of the travel and tourism industry.”

-- Linda Profaizer, National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds LARKSPUR, Colo., Sept.

30, 2009 – Campground and RV park occupancies and revenues have largely

Billings, Mont.-based Kampgrounds of America Inc. (KOA), the nation’s largest campground chain with more than 430 locations across the U.S. and Canada, was 1.1 percent ahead of 2008 occupancy figures systemwide through the end of September, while revenues were up 5.6 percent, according to Mike Gast, a company spokesman.

Meanwhile, Milford, Ohiobased Leisure Systems Inc. (LSI), which franchises roughly 70 Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts, which are mostly located east of the Mississippi River, has experienced a 5 percent jump in revenues, although its systemwide occupancies have fallen slightly, largely because of wet weather in the Northeast, said Dean Crawford, LSI’s executive vice president.

“The campground and RV park business continues to be the most vibrant segment of the travel and tourism industry,” said Linda Profaizer, president and CEO of the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds in

Larkspur, Colo., which represents commercially owned parks nationwide.

“Private parks have performed well in this economy,” Profaizer said, “because they are the most affordable vacation option, they increasingly offer fun family activities, and they are located in the most sought after destinations in the country.” Many private campgrounds and RV parks also offer unique accommodations, such as park model or site-built cabins, yurts, safari tents and teepees for people who don’t have their own RV or tent, but still want to enjoy a recreational experience in the Great Outdoors, she said.

Here’s a sampling of yearto-date business levels and occupancies reported by independently owned campgrounds and RV parks across the country: Branson KOA in Branson, Mo.: Occupancies at this park are up 9 percent so far this year, although the park has seen a slight dip in lodging bookings.

However, the park saw its average length of stay increase this year, from 4.5 nights to 5 nights, with more walk-ins than ever, said park owner Ralph Newell.

“We had the best July and August we’ve ever had, due to our new jumping pillow and kids’ activities. Fall is

looking better than last year.”

Buttonwood Campground in Mexico, Pennsylvania: This central Pennsylvania park reported a 3.2 percent increase in overnight campers through early September, compared to last year, with big gains in canoe and kayak rentals and cabin rentals.

“We have about 170 open sites and cabins and have enjoyed an average weekend occupancy rate of 80 percent plus for the summer,” said park owner Dennis McFarland.

Country Acres Campground in Ravenna, Ohio: This park, located roughly 50 miles southeast of Cleveland, has seen a 9.6 percent increase in its overall camping business this year.

“That is mostly due to an increase in seasonal campers, up 14 percent, and tenters, up 6 percent, while RV sites are pretty even to last year,” said park owner Anthony Palmentera, adding that he has seen an increase in the number of young couples in their 20s who are starting to camp with older pop-up trailers or large tents. Palmentera, however, has also seen a 7 percent decline in bookings for his 10 cabins and park models.

Cross Creek RV Park in Lake Ozark, Mo. This park, which is open April 1 to Nov. 1, experienced an 83 percent increase in tent camping, a 73 percent increase in cabin rentals and a 56 percent increase in RV site usage during the past six months, compared to the same period last year, according to park hosts John and Wendy Peters.

Falcon Meadow RV Campground in Falcon, Colo. : This park, located 15 miles northwest of Colorado Springs, experienced a 4 percent gain in :occupancies during the summer months compared to the same period last year, said park owner Jim Ozburn.

Lawrence / Kansas City KOA in Lawrence, Kansas: This park, located 40 miles west of Kansas City, Kan., has seen an 11 percent increase in occupancy compared to last year.

“During the holiday weekends, we had to turn

people away because we had a completely full park,” said Harold Hays, KOA park manager.

Normandy Farms in Foxboro, Mass.: This park, which is situated about 22 miles southwest of Boston, experienced a 6.5 percent drop in occupancy in June compared to the same period last year, largely due to rainy weather in the Northeast. However, park occupancies were up 4.6 and 1.3 percent in July and August, respectively, while weekend bookings remain strong through October, said park spokeswoman Kristine Daniels.

Parkview Riverside RV Park in Concan, Texas: This Hill Country park has seen a 2 to 3 percent decline in year to date occupancies, largely because of the drought, which has caused the Rio Frio River to fall to levels that were too slow and too shallow for river tubing, said park owner Doug Shearer.

Premier RV Resort in Redding, Calif.: This park has seen a 4 percent increase in gross revenues during the first eight months of this year compared to last year. “We are seeing a nice increase in first time visitors who are staying from two to four days while they are vacationing in the area,” said park owner Paul Williams, adding that the increase in demand from RVers has prompted the park to add 21 new pull through sites, which will be available in early October.

Sandy Pines in Hopkins, Mich.: This 2,220-site park, one of the largest RV resorts in country, saw a 7 percent increase in camping reservations this year compared to last year, with an 8 percent increase in rental cabins. “The economic conditions are not very good in Michigan, but camping is still an inexpensive activity for a family and they are doing what they can there with limited money,” said Max Gibbs, the park’s managing

director. Sandy Pines is about 30 miles south of Grand Rapids.

The Springs at Borrego RV Resort and Golf Course in Borrego Springs, Calif.: 2009 occupancies are running slightly ahead of last year’s figures at this low desert park, which is located just outside of Anza Borrego Desert State Park, said Daniel Wright, the park’s general manager.

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp Resort and Water Playground in the Wisconsin Dells: This park reported close to a 10 percent gain in occupancies this year.

However, overall park revenues declined nearly 7 percent as many of its park guests downsized to more affordable accommodations and campsites. “As we have eight types of outdoor lodging starting at $49 and six types of ‘bear-rific’ campsites starting at $19 for a family of four, there were plenty of alternatives to choose from,” said park spokesman Brent Gasser.

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