Sequoia RV Ranch is one of a growing number of RV parks in California and across the country that have been purchased by new owners who are transforming these properties into attractive vacation destinations THREE RIVERS, Calif., Feb. 16, 2010 – When Mitchell Brandon bought the 45-site Trailer Isle RV Park near the entrance to Sequoia National Park three years ago, he knew it was going to take a great deal of work and investment to transform the park into a viable weekend retreat or vacation destination. The park, which fronts 1,800 feet of shoreline
along the North Fork of the Kaweah River, had so many code violations that Tulare County officials required Brandon to sign on to an existing lien against the property before he could assume title. “It had become low income housing,” Brandon said. “There were squatters and some drug dealing going on. It had junkyard dogs on
chains and several old trailers with lean-tos in addition to outside washers and driers. The landscaping was so overgrown you could hardly see the river.” It took months of hard work to relocate the former tenants, remove a dozen abandoned cars, and haul out more than three-dozen 40-squareyard dumpsters filled with Continued page 2
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junk. But the initial cleanup paved the way for a $300,000 facelift that includes new campsites with new water and electrical connections, as well as a renovation of the bathhouse and office. The improvements, which also include new roadways, cable TV and wireless Internet service at each campsite, have helped Brandon begin a new chapter for the park with a new clientele and a growing business base. “Our biggest block of customers comes from the San Joaquin Valley. Most of our guests are from
Bakersfield, Visalia and Tulare, but we also get quite a few from the Central Coast and Southern California,” he said. While Three Rivers has cool weather during the winter, at 1,000 feet, it provides a sunny retreat for San Joaquin Valley residents when they tire of the Tule fog. During the late spring and summer, the park becomes a popular destination for river rafting enthusiasts, attendees at several community events in Three Rivers as well as visitors from Europe and across the country who come to visit Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks. “We’re getting a good, steady flow of reservations, and a lot of repeat business,” Brandon said, adding that guests
like the park’s natural scenic setting, the beautiful swimming hole and fishing at the edge of the river and the convenience of Wi-Fi service at their campsite. Brandon is also happy to report that his park is receiving high scores on Camp-California.com’s GuestReviews surveys, which track consumer feedback on their camping experiences throughout California. “We’re real pleased with the success Mitchell has had in transforming his park into a true vacation destination,” said Debbie Sipe, executive director of the California Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds. Sipe added that the private campground industry is attracting growing numbers of investors who are purchasing parks and
transforming them into attractive weekend retreats or vacation destinations California residents as well as visitors from outside the state. “Entrepreneurs and investors are increasingly realizing that the campground business is a viable and growing niche within the travel and tourism industry,” Sipe said, adding that the campground industry has been the most resilient segment of the tourism business during the recession.
Georgia is blessed with abundant natural resources, including nearly 60,000 square miles of mountains, forests, lakes, rivers, marshes and beaches. These resources play a vital role in supporting the state’s economy and quality of life, and they invite us outdoors to explore the wonders of nature. Yet studies show that children spend less than four minutes a day in outdoor discovery, compared with four hours a day watching television. This imbalance — described by author Richard Louv as “naturedeficit disorder” — is linked to variety of ills, including
obesity, depression and attention problems. At the Department of Natural Resources, we recognize how important it is for children to establish a connection with the natural world. That’s why we created Get Outdoors Georgia, a statewide initiative to highlight the link between outdoor recreation and improved health for people of all ages and abilities. Engaging children in the natural environment is a critical public-health strategy that helps seed lifelong physical, mental and community benefits. It also encourages our children to become stewards of our natural
resources and builds a culture of conservation. Recognizing that nature serves, as Louv explains, as a “healing balm” as powerful as anything from the medicine cabinet, the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation has invested nearly $40 million in recent years to increase access to inspiring outdoor spaces and to increase the amount of time children across the state spend in physical activity. Foundation investments have helped create new trails, improve parks and move thousands of kids from sedentary to active lifestyles. Across the state, activities at our 63 state parks and historic sites, as well as at
wildlife management and public fishing areas, offer opportunities for hiking, paddling, camping, fishing, picnicking, biking, hunting, wildlife watching and much more. The public facilities are affordable and family friendly. Full Article: http://www.ajc.com/opinion/t he-great-outdoors-awaits306992.html
Editors Note: Our new publication Getawayusa has the exact philosophy as indicated in the above article. The online publication reaching 66 million each month is sure to attract new people to the camping lifestyle.
Lakewood Camping Resort in Myrtle Beach, S.C., will host the 2010 annual membership meeting and trade show for the Carolinas Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds Feb. 21-23. This three-day event will bring approximately 75 campground owners and managers to the Myrtle Beach area and will feature seminars on a variety of topics from campground marketing to campground operations. “We are thrilled to host the Carolinas Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds at Lakewood,” said Shannon Gomer, chairman of the board at Lakewood Camping Resort. “Not only will this event bring hundreds of people into the Myrtle Beach area, it will also allow us to learn the latest technology and trends in the campground industry. We look forward to a successful and informative event.”
Spread across 200 acres, Lakewood has grown from Myrtle Beach’s first privately owned oceanfront campground to the eighthlargest camping resort in the world. Featuring 1,100 campsites and 85 villas, Lakewood offers a choice of campsites, RV spots and villas that feature views of the ocean, lakes or natural areas. All sites feature electrical hook-ups, Internet connections, cable, free local phone calls, a full-service bath house and onsite laundry facilities. Lakewood also offer guests a wide range of amenities to enjoy after spending the day at the beach, including an indoor heated swimming pool and spa, five stocked fresh water lakes, golf cart rentals, beachfront playground, an arcade with electronic and table-top games and a daily “Kids Club” to keep children happy and entertained.
Slowly but surely, jobs keep coming back to area RV factories. Jayco has announced plans to expand their factory in Middlebury, which could create 75 new jobs over the next two years. The Middlebury Town Council voted to approve the tax abatement for Jayco's expansion at their meeting Monday night. It's more or less a formality so the company can get started on the $1.25 million project. While it's only 75 jobs, the reason for the expansion might give hope to others from the RV industry.
Like many other area RV companies, Jayco's orders are finally rebounding. “Our backlogs are to the point that we need to pick up production and to do that we need to add to our facilities here,” said Derald Bontrager, President and COO of Jayco. Jayco, which relied on sales of small trailers to weather the recession, has some interesting news. “We're seeing the total market rebound; but more specifically the ‘Class A’ market, which would be the larger priced items,” Bontrager said. Those are motor homes that Bontrager says usually sell in the range of
$150,000; and that’s exactly what wasn't selling during the recession. Jayco’s plan is to expand the existing building housing their Class-A line by 30,000 square feet, to give them room to extend the line and make more large motor homes. Construction has already started on the expansion, and it looks like the tax abatement will be approved. “I don't think I see any issues related to the council. I think they're very much in favor of it. Jayco's been a wonderfully corporate citizen. They've been here a long time and anything the town can do
Derald Bontrager to support growth and employment in the town, we're going to support them,” said Middlebury town manager Mark Salee. Jayco expects to hire 50 people this year and 25 in 2011. But people shouldn’t take in their application just yet, hiring will start later. “That'll probably happen late summer, early fall. We anticipate the plant to be up and running, ready for production; probably in August or September,” Article: www.wndu.com
Two Minneapolis legislators are seeking to legally limit just how much rest can be had at Minnesota's highway rest areas and make it illegal to use them as free dump sites. Among other things, DFL Reps. Bobby Joe Champion and Frank Hornstein want a six-hour limit on how long motorists can stop and park continuously at rest stops. Exceptions would be made for commercialvehicle operators and restarea employees. The proposal put before the House Transportation and Finance Policy Division also seeks to ban the pitching of tents or sleeping overnight outside of vehicles. If enacted, dumping household or
commercial trash at rest stops would also be illegal. Violations would be a petty misdemeanor. The restrictions would take effect Aug. 1. Similar efforts during previous legislative sessions have not survived, Hornstein said. The state Department of Transportation, which oversees Minnesota's many dozens of rest areas, already lists on its website numerous rules and policies regarding rest stop use. Those include a six-hour stop limit on most motorists, with a 10-hour limit for commercialvehicle operators. The rules also prohibit overnight camping, parking and pitching of tents, except for two rest areas.
The great outdoors increasingly seems less so to 21st century adventurers, who want their s’mores delivered hot from a chef’s oven, their children and pets amused and their starry, starry nights Wi-Fi connected. As campground owners struggle with folding their tents under the financial pressure of trying to compete with five-star resorts, state Rep. James M. Murphy has gone as far as to call the family camping experience in Massachusetts “endangered” in a bill the Weymouth Democrat will bring before the Legislature Feb. 25. Murphy is asking the state Department of Environmental Protection to undertake a study and pitch an action plan by year’s end for reuniting overindulged, techaddicted vacationers with the simplistic pleasures of Ma Nature.
home. You have to keep up with that.”
Rep. James M. Murphy
“If You Didn’t Get Dirty, You Didn’t Have Fun,” is one of the T-shirts Paula Carroll, executive director of the 76-member Massachusetts Association of Campground Owners, plans to sell at next month’s Northeast Conference on Camping and Trade Show in Springfield. “Camping has been changing dramatically over the last 10 years,” Carroll said. “People still want to be outside at night by the campfire, but they want to be entertained, too, and they want the comforts of
Norbandy Farms offers Yurts with flat screen TV's
In addition to floating trampolines and homemade take-out meals, Carroll said campground owners are even building dog parks to appease families demanding pet-friendly destinations. In addition to four hot tubs, two swimming pools and a 20,000-square-foot entertainment complex, Normandy Farms, a family owned campground in Foxboro, offers yurts climate-controlled tents with flat-screen TVS. “The beauty of camping is there’s a campground out there for everyone,” said Marcia Galvin, MACO president. But it’s not just creating carnivals where once a
sleeping bag, engrossing novel and bag of briquettes sufficed. Galvin said most Bay State campgrounds have been passed down through generations. The state restricts singleownership properties to one 10,000-gallon septic tank, seriously thwarting any hope of growth. “The fear,” she said, “is the mom-and-pops can’t afford to keep the land as it is, and they could be bought out easily by housing developments and shopping malls. Camping is a great way to connect with your family and it’s affordable, but the value of the land is priceless. Camping will go by the wayside.” Article: www.bostonherald.com
The membership of the U.S. Military Campgrounds and RV Parks Web site has selected Eagle Hammock RV Park, Kings Bay Navy Submarine Base as the Best Military Campground in 2009 for the Eastern United States. Agave Gulch FamCamp, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., was voted the Best Military Campground in 2009 for the Western USA. Here are the results for the 2009 Campers Choice Awards for the Best Military Campgrounds:
Eagle Hammock RV Park
Western USA: 1, Agave Gulch FamCamp, DavisMonthan AFB, Tucson, Ariz.; 2, Desert Eagle FamCamp, Nellis AFB, Las Vegas; 3 (tie) Fort Bliss RV Park, Texas and Sea Breeze, Seal Beach Naval Weapons Station, Calif.; 5, Peregrine Pines Farm Camp, USAF Academy, Colorado Springs, Colo. Eastern USA: 1, Eagle Hammock, Naval Submarine Base, Kings Bay; 2, Pelican Roost, Mayport Naval Station, Mayport, Fla.; Blue Angel Naval Recreation Area, Pensecola, Fla.; 4 (tie) Camp Meade RV Park, Fort Meade, Md., Oak Grove Park and Cottages, Pensacola Naval Air Station, Fla. and Uchee Creek Campground, Fort Benning, Ga. During the last few months of 2009, more
Agave Gulch FamCamp than 15,000 Web site members were invited to vote for the Campers Choice Award for the Best Military Campground in 2009. Two awards were voted on: separate Campers Choice Awards for Best Military Campground in the Western USA and the Eastern USA.
Competition for the Campers Choice Award was even tougher this year than the previous two years. This year, there were fewer military campgrounds nominated. This is also the third year in a row that Agave Gulch FamCamp has been awarded this award.
AVON PARK - On Friday, residents of Adelaide Shores RV Resort prepped platters for a five-course German-themed dinner. By lunch time, the volunteers had stuffed about 190 blintzes, thin pancakes similar to crepes, with a cottage cheese filling, and were moving on toward final preparations on a stuffing. "There are seven eggs in here; separate them for me. Yolks go here and whites over here," instructed Joel Fleisher, chef and coordinator for Adelaide's five-course meal dinner. Two years ago, Fleisher, a retired surgeon who
studied culinary arts after retirement, decided to bring the art of five-course dining to Adelaide in Avon Park. Fleisher had traveled the States for years and found something missing in the way Americans dined. For him, eating out was no longer a dining experience. He wanted to change that, at least for the residents of Adelaide. "What's missing in how we eat in America is conversation, enjoying each other's company and the experience of dining," Fleisher said. Last year he brought the idea to the owners of the resort. The plan was to
create a traditional fivecourse dinner with a different theme each time. Last week was German, The next dinner is Death by Chocolate. The dinners are only available for the resort's residents for $10 and the
profits go toward their activities fund. Fleisher's cooking crew comprises volunteers who are more than excited about helping out. Full Article: www.2.highlandstoday.com
Horizon RV Resorts has announced that they are rolling out a new ‘Flex Plan’ service for RV Parks and Campgrounds needing more than Consulting assistance, but less than turn-key, third party Management. For many owners/operators, Consulting is perfectly suited to a short term need but isn’t enough help for ongoing issues. As well, Turn-Key Management may be more than is required. The Flex Plan offers the ideal combination of consultation, along with ongoing operational support. Randy Hendrickson, Founder and President of Horizon RV Resorts, observes:”In meeting with many park owners and managers, we have consistently heard comments such as “I need help marketing our park”, or “What front office system is right for me’’, or “We really need some help in organization and productivity” or “I need an outside source to help me guide staff towards a higher level of guest service skills”. They need more than just a one-time Consultation – they are looking for continuing support to not only implement needed changes, but also to monitor performance. By
increased bottom-line performance.
utilizing our Flex Plan we can assist with these and many other issues on an ongoing basis for clients, targeting the areas of most importance for their particular operation”. As an example, a handson Owner may have many aspects of their business handled with their existing team, but they would like an independent monthly review of operating results, in addition to developing and monitoring the results of a solid Marketing Plan. In this example, because Horizon would be providing a more limited scope of services than would be provided with Turn-Key management, they can assist owners at a reduced fee, and yet owners would have the benefit of having Horizon as part of their team and provide a ‘lifeline’ with whom they could consult on an ongoing basis for all phases of operations. With over 37 years’ experience in their executive team, Horizon RV Resorts is uniquely positioned to offer recommendations for ‘best practices’ in all phases of operations, resulting in promoting an atmosphere where guests recognize a superior quality of service, and owners will recognize
“We have a great track record in providing Consulting and Turn-Key management solutions, but experience has taught us that in order to better serve clients, what is truly needed is a ‘middle-ground’ approach” says Hendrickson. “Not every property is a candidate for Turn-Key Management, but many Owners require more than just Consultation. By providing the ‘Flex Plan’ Option, we are able to provide a targeted level of services at a very affordable rate. For park owners looking to be more profitable, utilizing our Flex Plan may be the smartest investment they can make in these challenging times’. Because this is a customized approach, the best course of action is to call Horizon RV Resorts. Says Hendrickson: ‘Let’s talk about your goals and tailor a plan for you! As a team, we’ll get your business where you want it to be in 2010 – and beyond” About Horizon RV Resorts: Horizon RV Resorts is a third-party Campground & RV Park Management and Consulting group exclusively serving the Outdoor Hospitality industry. Founder Randy Hendrickson has been involved in the industry for 14 years, managing multi-property
Randy Hendrickson operations in California, Arizona, Texas, Nevada, Florida, Colorado and Utah. From 2003 to 2006 Randall served as Vice President on the Board of Directors for CTPA Inc. (California Travel Parks Association, now CalARVC) where he chaired the Public Relations/Communications committee and was a Director on the CTPA Services Board. Randall also served on the AZ ARVC (formerly ATPA) Board of Directors from 2006 to 2008. Contact: Randy Hendrickson Horizon RV Resorts 866.472.7566 www.HorizonRVResorts.com
DOVER - Airstream Ranch, a row of partially buried travel trailers that is a favorite spectacle among highway sightseers, does not violate Hillsborough County codes, a threejudge panel has ruled. The panel this week overturned a Hillsborough County Code Enforcement Board determination that that the trailers constituted junk and off-site advertising for the adjacent Bates RV dealership at Interstate 4 and McIntosh Road. Assistant County Attorney Nancy Y. Takemori said she was reviewing the judges' order and had not decided whether she will suggest an appeal. Lawyer Luke Lirot, who represents Airstream Ranch owner Frank Bates, said he was elated at the decision by three Hillsborough circuit court judges.
Bates said he was "tickled to death" about the victory. "It's not every day that you can fight city hall, so to speak, and win," he said. Bates, who also owns Bates RV, contends the 2year-old display is art. Residents have complained of motorists crowding their neighborhood to get a better look at the creation. The judges found there was no "competent, substantial evidence" to support the 2008 code enforcement board's findings that the display either was junk or any type of nuisance, that it was "open outside storage," or that it was an improper "offsite sign" advertising Bates RV. Article: www.tampatribune.com
MIDDLEBORO MA— After eight years of battling with the town for her right to run a campsite, the owner of Tispaquin Family Campground bitterly told selectmen this week she would close her business by the end of the year. Barbara Holton, owner of the Tispaquin Family Campground, 68 Purchase St., along with her husband, Ralph, for 26 years, told selectmen of her decision following a lengthy public hearing on Board of Health violations. Holton said she plans to keep to camp open one more season to give her customers until Dec. 31 to remove their articles. “I have been beaten by this town for 26 years,” said Holton who purchased the property and 32-acre site in 1984. “I appreciate everything the board is trying to do to shut the campground down, but they need not continue because I have decided that after this season I am going to be closing the campground.” At Monday’s meeting, selectmen quietly listened to her comments. Selectmen
Chairman Patrick Rogers said the Superior Judicial Court required the hearing to address questions regarding the suit filed by the town and Holton. “I’m sorry to hear that,” Rogers told Holton, as Holton walked away. “Certainly I know the campground has been appreciated by a lot of people who camp there.” Holton did not say what her plans were with the property that is valued at $988,700 by the assessors. The two houses on the property are assessed at $410,800 and the 30 acres of recreational land is valued at $577,900, said Assessor Barbara Erickson. The land abuts Tispaquin Pond and would be valued significantly higher if sold as house lots, said Erickson.
campground’s septic system to meet the needs of the units. Board of Health Officer Jeanne Spalding said the campsite has had up to 150 units though it is authorized to have 57 units. “If you increase your operation, you need to upgrade your system,” Spalding told selectmen.
“It’s a beautiful piece of property. It’s not a piece of property I would like to see made into house lots,” said Erickson.
Holton claims that her septic system meets the needs of her campground and has passed Title 5 inspections. “My systems are totally good,” said Holton.
The campground has continued to operate, though the town has denied a license since 2002, sighting the inadequacy of the
During the public hearing, selectmen, who serve as the town’s Board of Health, reviewed six questions issued by the court and after hearing
arguments from Spalding and Holton, they voted in favor of the town on each issue. The questions dealt with such topics such as: The Title 5 inspection and its relevance to the case. The design flow capacity and its significance, the Board of Health’s decision to issue a license for 57 campsites when the design flow capacity was sufficient for 49 units. The relationship between the alleged zoning violations and the Board of Health’s decision to deny the campground a license to operate. Article: www.enterprisenews.com
McLean, VA (February 16, 2010) – Best Parks in America
recent Best Parks in America into the network:
www.BestParksinAmerica.com,
Alabama: Bella Terra of Gulf Shores, Foley - A lifestyle you can call home
a collection of distinguished, independent RV resorts and campgrounds throughout America, continues to grow with the addition of 21 new affiliate parks all across the United States. Each park has earned the ‘Best Parks in America’ designation through top ratings and recognition from within the industry as well as from visitors to the resorts. “As our park affiliates expand, Best Parks in America continues to be the definitive group of first class RV resorts. Each resort brings its unique style and substance to discriminating campers across the United States,” remarked David Gorin, President of Best Parks in America. Best Parks in America provides a national branding presence and marketing home for independent highly-rated RV parks and campgrounds. As Best Parks continues to grow, consumers are increasingly recognizing the Best Parks brand and actively seeking out Best Parks as the places they can count on for outstanding RV and camping experiences. Best Parks and its 40 affiliated resorts in 19 states welcome the most
Arizona: Pueblo El Mirage, El Mirage - 55+ active adult community just minutes from Phoenix Sunrise RV Resort, Apache Junction - Your destination for an active adult community Colorado: Chalk Creek Campground & RV Park, Nathrop Shady, quiet RV and tent sites under big trees along Chalk Creek Montrose RV Resort, Montrose - Gateway to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Florida: Whisper Creek RV Resort, La Belle - The ultimate family owned and operated 55+ resort
Michigan: Hidden Ridge RV Resort, Hopkins - Providing the rustic environment guests crave along with memorable activities and amenities Minnesota: Kiesler's Campground and RV Resort, Waseca - Top rated Minnesota fun on Clear Lake New Hampshire: Mountain Lake, Lancaster Nestled among the ancient pines and along a serene 30 acre lake in the White Mountains of New Hampshire North Carolina: Lake Norman Motor Coach Resort, Sherrills Ford Deluxe sites situated on beautiful Lake Norman Pennsylvania: Kozy Rest Kampground, Harrisville - Set under the tall trees in the prettiest parts of Butler County in Western Pennsylvania
Quail Run RV Park, Wesley Chapel - A great location, first-class facilities, no rig too big
Mountain Vista Campground, East Stroudsburg - Nestled in the scenic Pocono Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania
Emerald Cove RV Beach Resort, Panama City Beach - Your big rig destination on the Emerald Coast
Pioneer Campground, Muncy Valley - The highest rated campground in the Endless Mountains
Iowa: Scales Pointe Campground, North Liberty - Located on the beautiful Coralville Lake Reservoir
South Dakota: Beaver Lake Campground, Custer - A centrally located family oriented destination park
David Gorin Texas: The Vineyards Campground & Cabins, Grapevine - Located on the shores of beautiful Lake Grapevine Advanced RV Resort, Houston - Just minutes from many of Houston’s most popular attractions Northshore Resort on Lake Livingston, Onalaska - The highest rated park on Lake Livingston Wisconsin: Evergreen Campsites & Resort, Wild Rose Central Wisconsin’s ultimate four seasons resort Gorin and Best Parks in America invites the nation’s top rated parks to take advantage of this exclusive marketing group to build their brand and their business. For more information about Best Parks in America affiliation please contact Dave Newhouse at DavenN@BestParks.net or call him at 703-485-4277. Qualifying parks may also affiliate online through an easy enrollment form at www.BestParks.net.
HELENA – Gov. Brian Schweitzer, speaking to land use managers, said that state and federal agencies must tell the public that the scarred forests left behind by voracious pine beetles will remain for years. Millions of acres of forest land in the state is affected by the pine beetles, which kill trees in large swaths. The trees turn red as they die, leaving behind a stark landscape that once was green. Schweitzer, speaking to a group of land-use managers from state and federal agencies this week, said that only so much can be done. He said, for example, more logging will help, but points out that industry is only capable of making a dent in the problem at this point.
He said Montana's landscape has been forever changed. "At the rate we're going, our children will have a different landscape than we had in Montana," Schweitzer said. "I don't know that we have all the solutions. "Part of what our challenge is here, is to prepare Montana for the inevitable." Amy Gannon, an insect scientist for the state, said a total of three million acres are affected. She said the infection rivals a large outbreak seen in the early 1980s.
Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer curtail the bug. She said there is some evidence an early cold snap last fall helped kill off many pine beetles.
"It's a cyclical insect. We will see it again."
She said cold weather in winter has less effect because the pine beetle prepares for it. She said sustained temperatures less than 40 degrees below zero would be needed in winter to kill the beetles.
Harsh cold, especially in the fall and spring, can
"If we're getting those temperatures, we probably
Like then, this outbreak will run its course and can't be stopped, she said.
have other concerns than bark beetles," Gannon told the Mountain Pine Beetle forum. Recently, the U.S. Department of Agriculture provided $20 million to help fight mountain pine beetle infestation in Montana. The money will be used to remove some beetle-killed trees, especially in areas frequented by people such as campgrounds. It will also be used to thin areas of thick stands. www.flatheadbeacon.com
Placing an advertisement in the newspaper or a magazine? Take a minute to page through and study the advertisments that others are using. Now how can you make your ad stand out??? When people are reading a magazine or newspaper you have only seconds for them to notice your ad. If there are heavy borders around all the ads you see, make your ad without borders. Is everything in color? Make yours black and white. If everything is in black and white run a color ad. Perhaps try running the ad upsidedown!! MAKE YOUR AD STAND OUT FROM THE REST SO IT WILL BE NOTICED! Do you advertise in newspapers and magazines? If so, consider this rule: it is much more effective to run a series of smaller ads over an extended period of time, than to run a couple of large ads. Advertising over an extended period of time qualifies you for discounts plus increases the odds of your ad being seen.
Research the cost per view. Distribution and marketing DIRECTLY to your customer is a key to effective sales. Cost per thousands should be analyzed and decisions based on COST and DISTRIBUTION. Weigh up the options for direct marketing opposed to the mass media. Do you have a web site? Since a web site is the least expensive way to get information to potential customers many businesses now have one. However, many business owners forget to include their web address in their advertisements! Put that web address in all of your ads, on operating instructions, on give-aways - put it everywhere! Just for fun look in the local yellow pages and see how many advertisers include their web address. It's not many! The purpose of your advertising is to get people into your business. If the ad does not provide enough information, at least get them to go to your web site where you have lots of good stuff for them to see.
Representatives from Bella Terra RV Resort have announced today the launch of Phase Two of their Gulf Shores, Ala., development. Despite concerns of the real estate market, the resort has experienced growing demand – with over 1,300 unique guest stays and a 95% positive customer satisfaction rating during the first year of operation, according to a news release. Since completing Phase One of the resort in November 2008, Bella
Terra has sold almost 90% of its initial 88 lots. Consumer demand continues to propel Bella Terra forward, with the initial development of the second phase consisting of 25 additional premium lots. Once completed, Phase Two will add a total of 88 new lots bringing the total resort to 176 units. “We have continued to successfully sell lots at a strong velocity despite the economic trends,” said Chuck Smith, president of Bella Terra Realty Holdings LLC. “This is a true testament to both our
premium product and the value buyers place on exceptional service. As a result, what we’re finding is that demand amongst Class A RVers is driving sales and occupancy rates that are off the charts.” Onsite rental occupancy has averaged over 50% during initial off-season months. The team expects occupancy to reach near capacity during the upcoming 2010 peak season. Today, Bella Terra is widely considered the top RV resort in the Southeast, earning the highest ratings from Woodalls, Good Sam Club, Trailer Life Directory and Wheelers RV Guide. Most recently, the resort was inducted into the “Best Parks of Amercia.” “Consumers are
experiencing tremendous value as a result of their purchases at Bella Terra in Gulf Shores,” said Tripp Keber, COO at Bella Terra Realty Holdings LLC. “We continue our commitment to building the ‘best of breed’ within the RV community, as we aggressively pursue new developments in 2010 to bolster our family of lifestyle resorts.” Phase Two lots will begin selling at pre-construction pricing on Feb. 15. Lot prices range from $99,000 to $159,000 – representing over a 20% increase from Phase One preconstruction pricing levels. Special purchase incentives will be offered for a limited time during this pre-construction phase. For more information on Bella Terra, visit www.BellaTerraRVResort.com
or call (866) 417-2416.
North Hollywood, CA, February 15, 2010 – The conclusion of the exclusive three-part interview with Brian Brawdy is LIVE on www.RVBuddiesOnline.co m for viewing now.
that we would all benefit from carrying: “Believe in the ability to do anything in life… your exploration is your own.” For more information contact Mark Summers at Mark@RVBuddiesOnline.com
The new magazine proposed by the publishers of Campground & RV Park E News called Getaway USA has set the industry talking.
into the concept to encourage the public, especially children to get outdoors and experience what campgrounds have to offer.
The main talking point is the initial distribution list66 million Americans will receive the first issue planned for late March.
In addition to the large distribution list campgrounds will be encouraged to forward the e magazine on to their existing email data base of clients.
The list is a random data base where it is suspected the majority are not dedicated campers - which fits right
The publishers have received many letters of support.
In part three of the series, Brian Brawdy shares how his life experiences have shaped who he is today. He reveals his thoughts and feelings about his father’s suicide, the impact his grandfather had on his life and the loss of his beloved Dog, “Yoda.” “It is truly an inspirational and moving conversation with a man who has had such an impact on the RV industry,” says show host Mark Summers. “Beyond his philosophies, insights and experiences, Brian shares some of the most meaningful moments in his life – moments that we can all learn from. As Brawdy travels across the country in his Lance Camper he carries with him a personal philosophy
About Brian Brawdy A nationally known conservationist, Brawdy has traveled across America in his customized Lance Camper, trumpeting the benefits of his array of eco-friendly RV gear. His solar panels, satellite dishes, wind turbines and other innovations mingle with his personal commitment to a selfsustaining life style, and make for a fascinating story. The former undercover cop, cancer survivor, and RV industry spokesman is often referred to as “Eco-Brian” or the “Green RVer.” He is inspiring new environmentally-sound ways to RV today, and is influencing the industry’s view of tomorrow.
On a recent Facebook company blog post, Malorie Lucich wrote, "You can turn to Facebook to share news, connect with news outlets and discuss current events with others." So now the largest social network on the planet wants to become a major news discovery engine too? According to Hitwise, it's already getting there. Hitwise found that in January, Facebook was the #4 referrer of traffic to news sites after Google, Yahoo and MSN, and ahead of Google News. Plus, many news sites and aggregators are using Facebook Connect so you can share more articles with Facebook friends. Facebook is beating out RSS feed readers because it already has a huge installed base of users (with 175 million people logging in every day), and includes recommendations from friends, according to ReadWriteWeb's Marshall Kirkpatrick. But Facebook won't be a savior for the news business, says VentureBeat's Kim-Mai Cutler, who notes that as more news outlets have feeds and Fan pages on Facebook, "we'll be back where we started with lots of sites screaming for our attention.
On another front, Facebook announced it was ending its deal allowing Microsoft to serve banner ads on the site, opting to sell its own "social ads" that had performed much better. "Ad formats that feature social actions perform better and provide a better user experience since they are more consistent with the look and feel of Facebook," the company said in a statement. Microsoft had invested $240 million in Facebook in 2007, and made an ad and search deal. The software giant will continue serving search ads with Bing on Facebook, and said it would have even deeper search integration worldwide -- just as Facebook revamped its home page with a stronger emphasis on search. "As part of this expanded cooperation in search, our two companies will soon provide Facebook users with a more complete search experience by providing full access to great Bing features beyond a set of links, including richer answers combined with tools that help customers make faster, smarter decisions," wrote Bing general manager Jon Tinter on the corporate blog.
Don Neubacher begins his work next month as the new boss of Yosemite National Park, but his agenda will be the same as that of his four predecessors -- to finish cleaning up after the massive flood of 1997. A decade-long lawsuit has kept the cleanup on the front burner for 13 years in the iconic national park. National Park Service officials say the park needs a Zen master who can navigate $50 million projects, federal court orders and passionate opponents.
Neubacher, superintendent of Point Reyes National Seashore for 15 years, has been in an uncomfortable spotlight before, and he is ready for this, say park service officials. Full Article: www.fresnobee.com
MONTGOMERY – Technological advancements may change the look and appearance of most products over time, but for diehard supporters of a classic American homeaway-from-home, the look remains the same. More than 70 years after Wally Byam created the first iconic Airstream travel trailer – with its unique rounded contours and chrome-like cover – supporters and devotees still gather to pay homage to his creation. More than 30 vintage Airstream trailers, each at least 25 years old, were on display at the Texas Vintage Airstream Rally held at KOA Campground, located at 19785 Texas 105. The event was open to the public. “Many of the vintage models have been lovingly restored refinished and redecorated to their original condition,” said Kathy Blanchard, a
member of the Wally Byam Caravan Club. Airstream’s original concept was simple: Provide a high-quality trailer that could be towed by a standard automobile, provide first-class accommodations and go anywhere in the world. The company’s website states many Airstreams built in the early 1930s are still in use today. A number of regional, state and national events are held annually for Airstream owners. The Wally Byam Caravan Club rally being held near Lake Conroe offers attendees a variety of seminars on vintage restoration, such as polishing and riveting as well as newer technology instruction on adding solar panels. Airstream still offers a range of travel trailers based on the iconic, rounded design. For more information, visit www.airstream.com. Article: www.hcnonline.com
Recreational-vehicle dealers had cause to smile at this weekend's annual Detroit Camper and RV Show. The four-day event was packed morning to night, every day. And the families who came to see everything from small pop-up camp vehicles to 40-foot luxury coaches with bathrooms, refrigerators and built-in barbecues were in a buying mood. "Things have been great," Chad Neff, general
manager of American RV in Grand Rapids, Mich., said. "The traffic has been good and people are buying." American RV sells a full range of recreational vehicles from small economic campers that get 23 mpg on a diesel engine to the super powered fifthwheel Montana, which has an interior floor plan that seems almost as large as a studio apartment. Neff, like many other RV dealers at the show, attributed increased industry sales to the improvement in the availability of credit.
Snowbirds who stay at one Southern California RV Resort get more than the best winter weather in the country ANAHEIM, Calif., Feb. 16, 2010 – Thanks to El Niño, Southern California has been getting more rain than usual this winter. But from Karen Simpson’s perspective, it’s still a heck of a lot warmer in Anaheim than it is back at her home in Victoria, Canada. Plus, here she can pick fresh citrus every morning and have fresh squeezed orange, tangerine and grapefruit juice with breakfast. “I love it here,” said Simpson, who spends the winter at Orangeland RV Park with her husband, Joe, in their 36-foot motorhome. “There are so many different varieties of citrus in the park. It’s awesome.” Orangeland is a unique RV park with more than 100 citrus trees on site, including navel oranges, Valencia oranges, blood oranges, mandarin oranges, tangerines, ruby red grapefruit, white grapefruit as well as lemons and limes. And the fruit is so plentiful that the park allows guests to pick as much as they want during their stay. “The navels are ready to pick in January, but the longer they stay on the tree, the sweeter they get,” said Abe LaLande, Orangeland’s general manager.
Built on the site of a historic working orange grove, Orangeland harkens back to the early 1900s, when citrus packers marketed their produce with beautifully painted citrus packing labels that promoted Southern California’s sunny winter weather and snow capped mountains as much as they promoted the citrus itself.
pool, Jacuzzi, exercise room and other amenities that make the park a popular winter destination. The park was founded in 1972 by now 93-year-old Eldredge Welton, a longtime campgound industry pioneer who founded the statewide trade association known as the California Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds.
earned “Park of the Year” awards from the National Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds. “Eldredge Welton’s vision helped form what is now a thriving RV park and campground industry here in California. And today, Orangeland is still a front-runner in customer service and innovation in the outdoor hospitality industry.”
Office buildings, shopping malls and housing tracts now stand where many of Southern California’s citrus groves used to be. So, in that sense, Orangeland is like a retreat into Southern California’s past, combined with a heated swimming
“Orangeland is one of many unique parks we have throughout the state that have interesting histories and activities for their guests,” said Debbie Sipe, the California association’s executive director, adding that Orangeland has twice
LaLande, for his part, added that Orangeland today is as popular with snowbirds as it is with RV enthusiasts who want a unique place to stay while they visit Disneyland and other Southern California attractions.
In 2009 we launched the Campground Supplier Directory which through the year grew to 352 Industry Supplier listings. We can also report that in 2009 the directory was visited 51,128 times, this number suggests that Campground owners are very aware of the directory and are making use of it several times during the year and why not? It’s the most comprehensive Campground Supplier Directory on the planet! One of the big plusses of the directory is its easy access. Campground Owners know that there is a link to the directory on page two of Campground & RV Park E-News each and every week of the year, so when it is required it’s easy to find and access, although I suspect that most Campground Owners have bookmarked the site in their own computer systems as well. The basic directory listings are free to suppliers although understandably, the lion’s share of the business generated by the directory goes to ‘Premium Listed Suppliers’. At $150 per year for a ‘Premium Listing’ it would seem a ‘no brainer’ that every supplier should make this small investment a priority, look for the Premium Listing renewal in your e-mail box soon or simply go to the site and create your
Premium Listing now! This article may also serve as a reminder to Suppliers to check their listing information for accuracy and Premium Members should make sure their listed products and services are up to date. http://www.industryenews.c om/dir/index.html Premium Listing Benefits • Premium Listings are always listed first above the free listings. • They allow for two images - usually a company logo and a product, but the choice is yours. • The title (Company name) of your listing is linked directly to your web site. • 6 lines of information can be included in the Description area of the listing. • Each Premium Listing contains hidden 'keywords' which you nominate on the sign-up form. These keywords are of great benefit when Campground Owners use the search panel to find a specific product or service. We believe that the main body of Campground Owner inquiries will be via the search panel. (of note is that 1024 searches took place in the directory in the first 3 days of operation). • Premium listings give your company a high profile and demonstrate your eagerness to be part of the Campground Owners
Business Plan. • Premium Listings are profiled in the E-News. • Premium Listings are extremely cost effective at $150/year. Compare that to ANY other directory! Banner Placement The banner that you see on every category page is available on an annual basis for $500. Banners rotate equally and indiscriminately maximum 10 banners in the rotation. Directory Benefits The Suppliers Directory is an extension of the Campground & RV Park ENews and the Main Link to it has a permanent home on page two, every week, 47 weeks of the year. Campground Owners know exactly how to get to the directory in an emergency or whenever needed. • The Directory is actively promoted to Campground Owners by e-mail approximately 450,000 times each year. • A directory MUST be comprehensive. It is free to
list your business in the directory but that alone does not make it comprehensive. We are employing a person to physically ring suppliers who do not take the time to register their Free Listing and we won't stop until we are satisfied that our directory is the most Comprehensive available. • Here at Industry E-News LLC we have (by design) no affiliation with any industry association or entity, we therefore can make the following promises to you: 1. We promise not to pad the directory with multiple same listings (just to make it look comprehensive). 2. We promise to keep it very affordable. Free is affordable and a 'Premium Listing' is only $150/year 3. We promise that suppliers from countries other than the USA do not have to settle for less. 4. We promise not to show favoritism in the placing of listings.
Swimming pools, hot tubs and the best winter weather in the country are not enough for today’s active Baby Boomers “Baby Boomer retirees are nothing like the World War II generation. This is a very active group that thrives on activities, classes and entertainment.” ‒ Linda Profaizer, National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds The stereotypical image of snowbirds is a group of older adults lounging around a swimming pool, soaking up the sun. But while that image may apply to some snowbirds some of the time, retired Baby Boomers who spend the winter at the larger RV parks and resorts across the Sunbelt are more likely to be taking classes in Tai Chi or Qi Gong, refining their artistic skills with wood carving, ceramics or calligraphy, or attending daylong seminars on music and politics by professors from Ivy League universities. Some RV parks even have their own theatrical and choral groups and host their own arts and crafts shows and sporting tournaments. “Today’s retired Baby Boomers are nothing like retirees of the World War II generation,” said Linda Profaizer, president and CEO of the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds. “This is a very active group that
thrives on activities, classes and entertainment.” Similarly, today’s RV parks and resorts are nothing like the snowbird parks of a generation ago. In fact, RV parks and resorts that cater to retired Baby Boomers increasingly offer classes, activities and special events to keep their snowbird guests entertained throughout the winter months. Consider Palm Creek Golf & RV Resort in Casa Grande, Ariz. The park offers numerous recreational activities, including aerobics, Pilates, tai chi, yoga, lawn bowling, softball and volleyball, while those who like to dance can take classes in everything from cabaret dancing to line, square and western dancing. Palm Creek also offers more than a dozen arts and crafts classes, including ceramics, pottery, sewing, oil painting, watercolor painting, silver smithing, stained glass and wood
carving. In fact, its winter guests produce so many high quality craft items that the resort now has a monthly craft fair. “We’re not very sedentary here,” said Wendell Johnson, general manager of Palm Creek Golf and RV Resort in Casa Grande, Ariz. “I’d say probably 70 to 80 percent of our guests pursue something here other than lying out by the pool.” Voyager RV Resort in Tucson offers similar classes and activities, as well as Qi Gong, a Chinese exercise class, in addition to a class where guests can learn choreographed spirit dance, jazz dance and free form dance.
Last year, Chicago-based Equity LifeStyle Properties, which owns RV resorts throughout the Sunbelt, launched a lecture series at several of its parks in Florida and Arizona that featured professors from Harvard and Yale who talked about a variety of topics, from the music to Mozart to the role of women in politics. The lecture series was so popular that the program has been expanded this year, with topics including “Music And The Brain: Why We Like The Music We Like,” by Professor Craig Wright of Yale University; “FDR And The Path To World War II,” by Professor Continued next page
$15 tickets for the bigger shows. I thought that was going to hurt us this year, but we haven’t had any problem selling tickets to our shows.”
Continued from previous page Richard Pios of Columbia University, and seminars on Gershwin’s most popular songs by Professor Orin Grossman of Fairfield University. Randall Hendrickson, manager of Leaf Verde RV Resort in Buckeye, Ariz., said organized activities provide opportunities for park guests to forge strong friendships with one another, while stimulating repeat visits to the park. “At Leaf Verde,” he said, “we have augmented the activity schedule to include water aerobics, yoga, water volleyball, casino trips and bus tours. These have been extremely well received, and our returning guests are amazed at all there is to do. Literally every day there is an activity available to serve all interests.” Meanwhile, The Great Outdoors RV Resort in Titusville, Fla. offers its winter guests daily activities, including Zumba, kickboxing, hi-low dance aerobics, pilates, total body toning, yoga and group meditation as well as classes in calligraphy, photography, oil painting, and rubber stamping. The park also has formed clubs for virtually every type of interest, from knitting to kayaking to motorcycling. Many private park operators now see activities being an essential part of their business strategy. “If you’re trying to attract snowbirds, you’ve got to
Linda Profaizer have activities,” said Jolene Wade, managing partner of the Fountain of Youth Spa and RV Park in Niland, Calif. Her park, located in the Southern California desert just east of the Salton Sea, features natural hot springs and some of the best winter weather in the country. But even with those attractions, she offers numerous activities, including radio control aircraft flying, a clown school, bocce ball, therapeutic and water exercise classes and dances with live music. Many parks have also expanded their entertainment offering and now host frequent dances and even dinner shows with professional entertainers. “The last time I did a luau I hired an act out of Las Vegas to perform,” said Doreen Fuller, activities director for Rincon Country RV Resort in Tucson, Ariz. That’s a sharp contrast to a generation ago, when a big social event at an RV park was a potluck.
“In the 80s, people had less money to spend,” Fuller said. “They were from the Depression era and they didn’t let loose of their money very easily. So a $4 or $5 dollar ticket in those days was a lot of money. Today, we still have $5 and $6 tickets, but we also have $12 and
That’s not to say that retirees are not interested in saving money. In fact, the activities program at Golden Village Palms RV Resort in Hemet, Calif. is drawing its largest crowds ever, partly as retirees scale back their investments in entertainment options outside the RV parks and resorts where they spend the winter, said Greg Sidoroff, operations manager for La Jolla, Calif.-based SunLand RV Resort, which owns the Hemet park.
By Art Lieberman Ten years ago when I moved from New York City to rural Pennsylvania, I noticed that at the holiday season many folks used “layaway” to purchase gifts. In New York City, this was a bit rarer. When I shopped at a Wal-Mart store in Lewisburg, PA I saw that they even had a Lay-Away Department. So it came as a surprise to me that when I attempted to buy an item on lay-away this past weekend that I was told by a Wal-Mart employee, “Oh, we stopped layaways years ago.” So I did a little research to find out why and discovered that my own business, credit cards, was partially responsible for the demise of layaways, at least at Walmart. I also found out that other stores, such as Sears and K-Mart still use lay-away plans but only in a limited capacity. Not all items in their stores are available for lay-away. There are several problems that retailers can encounter due to layaways. First of all, there is the cumbersome record-keeping of who ordered merchandise and what is on lay-away. Then there is the storage problem of actually keeping the item until the lay-away payment is finalized. Finally, on the merchant’s end, there is the eventual possibility that the item will
purchase will NEVER be finalized and an adjustment will have to be made, either by refund (with perhaps some loss of funds) or some other method.
Wal-Mart catalog of a zillion items, three desks which were being sent for pick-up to my local Walmart store, thereby saving me the delivery charge.
On the consumer’s end, when they buy an item on lay-away, they never really have it until it is paid in full. I assume that consumers were using lay-aways as a method of budgeting purchases. They could pay for an item, a little at a time, without paying any penalties such as interest – as they would have to pay by using a credit card and paying their balance off over several months. Also by utilizing lay-away, consumers could change their minds about a purchase. This option was, perhaps, one of the primary reasons that Wal-mart abandoned lay-away.
The program is called Site to Store® and it saved me $70+ dollars. The desks will arrive later this month. While shopping at Walmart I found several file cabinets I also wanted to purchase and thought I could buy them, put them on lay-away until the desks were delivered (even though I would pay for them in full).
I believe, that credit cards, actually doomed lay-away. There is no substitute for actually possessing an item after financially committing to buy it even if the funds are not immediately available. Perhaps money will be available before carrying a credit card balance for an additional month – thereby eliminating those egregious interest rates that credit cards providers charge on unpaid balances. Back to my own personal encounter with the lay-away. I am attempting to expand my business and had ordered, from the online
In reality, I just wanted Walmart to store the file cabinets until the desks
arrived, so I could take all of the items at once! Brilliant, huh? It was then that I received my education on lay-away, which I have now passed on to you! 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
By Larry LAKE CITY, TN (February 15, 2010)— For 25 years, TrailManor concentrated strictly on building folding hardwall travel trailers using its unique lightweight construction techniques.
Preparation, survival and aftermath are the three dimensions of flood planning. Preparation is the usual downfall: why prepare for something that has never happened? The answer: customers and patrons. They have never died in a flood before but they still trust that you have prepared. Preparation means more than a boat, a life vest and some rope. There needs to be a plan of escape, the means for rescue, backup communication, flashlights, emergency power, first aid and supplies of food, water and blankets for at least three days. All of your staff should have a copy of the plan. Post evacuation routes. Survival is a function of good planning and common sense. Don’t be fighting currents, swimming in floodwater, or playing hero. Work together and be guided by local emergency responders. Aftermath: electric wires, hazards hidden by
floodwater and disease are dangers. Keep everybody out of the water. Never assume that downed wires are cold. When the water has receded start mold prevention steps in any flooded structure. Check the safety of your water supply. Remind anybody exposed to floodwater to get proper shots. Flood preparation should be part of your overall emergency preparedness or disaster readiness plan. Disaster readiness is difficult to take seriously. No one wants to be like Chicken Little, thinking the sky is falling. But people trust you for their safety. The record amounts of snow this winter mean increased danger of flooding when the snow melts, especially if there is rainfall on top of the snowmelt. Be prepared! Your customers and your insurance company will love you for being prepared!
Last year, the company discovered that not only could it transfer its technology to upright trailer design, but there was a big market for it. In October of 2008, TrailManor introduced the Elkmont, a 24-foot upright trailer that is 1,500 pound lighter than similar competitive models.
TrailManor accomplished this by using its panelized construction techniques and weight-shaving ideas developed over the previous quarter-century of building its folding models. Even as the Great Recession came crashing down on the RV industry, the Elkmont still generated plenty of buzz—and quickly growing sales. In fact, the company reports that upright trailer sales now account for 22% of its sales.
ALBANEL, QUEBEC-(Marketwire - Feb. 15, 2010) - The Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of State for Canada Economic Development, today announced the awarding of $125,730 in non-repayable funding to the municipality of Albanel for the expansion of its municipal campground. Necessitating an overall investment of $200,000, this economic diversification project will result in the creation of three new sustainable jobs as of the 2010 tourist season. The work, which will be subcontracted to local firms, will include building four new winterized cabins on the site for year-round use and renovating the common areas of the municipal campground. These new and improved facilities will make it possible to expand the regional offering of allseason activities, including cyclo tourism and snowmobile tours, while attracting a greater
number of visitors to the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region. "Tourism is a major tool for the economic development of Albanel. As such, improving the quality of the local tourist facilities and services is a major priority for the municipality. This project will make the town more appealing and bolster its drawing power. We believe it is essential to support local stakeholders in their efforts to fully capitalize on an industry that promises to generate such significant benefits for the community," explained the Minister of State. This funding has been granted under Canada's Economic Action Plan, an initiative aimed at mitigating the effects of the economic slowdown on communities in transition and industries under restructuring. For more on Canada's Economic Action Plan, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.
RVIA will hold its next Board of Directors meeting on Thursday, April 1, at the Washington Court Hotel in Washington, D.C. The group was originally scheduled to meet Feb. 11 at the same property; however, that meeting was postponed due to the record-breaking snowstorms that blanketed the Washington, D.C., area that week. In addition to the Board of Directors meeting, the RVIA
Executive Committee will meet the day before on Wednesday, March 31. RVIA also will host an orientation meeting for new RVIA Board members at the association’s offices in Reston, Va., on Tuesday, March 30. RVIA also announced the association’s Capitol Hill Advocacy, originally scheduled for February 10, will not be rescheduled, as Congress will be in recess.
LAS CRUCES - If you own a recreational vehicle and park it on the street outside your house, you may soon need to find a new place to keep it. The Las Cruces City Council in New Mexico will consider amending city ordinance to restrict recreational vehicles from being parked in residential neighborhoods for long periods of time. The ordinance would also make it unlawful to occupy a recreational vehicle as a residence unless certain city criteria are met. The amendments would allow recreational vehicles to only be stored in a garage or private driveway. They could not be parked on a city street or sidewalk,
unless the owner is preparing for or returning from a trip. Even then, it would only be allowed to be parked on a street, sidewalk or alley for two days. The amended ordinance also stipulates that people could only live in an RV in an established trailer park, or for a period of no more than seven days if the RV is lawfully parked in a residential area.
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)
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