sponsored by...
for more sponsorship information contact Kera Tomlin at ktomlin@arvc.org
Due to popular demand the Early Bird Registration has been Extended!!
ARVC’s InSites 2009 Convention & Outdoor Hospitality Expo
November 9-12 in
Orlando, Florida.
Save $75 off full registration by registering before August 15th
All Early Bird registrants will be entered into a drawing
for 2, One Day-Hopper tickets to Disney.
Send in your registration today!
"Change" is the word of the day. That’s why this year’s InSites promises to be the best yet– with brand new networking events, trade show exhibits, and new industry experts conducting hands-on seminars. This year’s professional development classes were created for various experience levels. Campground owners and operators of all skill sets will take away new information and ideas.
You may want to come early (or stay late) and bring your family to take advantage of all of the special offers and discounts to the many parks and attractions that Orlando has to offer. Visit www.arvc.org for a list of attractions and a chance to purchase discounted Disney tickets. The Official InSites hotel, Rosen Centre, is located just minutes from the attractions and only 12 minutes from Orlando International Airport. This full service resort hotel offers seven restaurants and lounges, tropical pool with whirlpools, lighted tennis courts, health club, full-service spa, and video arcade at a special ARVC rate. Parking is free to all guests.
Everything you need to know to register for InSites 2009 can be found on our website at www.arvc.org or call 1-800-395-2267. Register today for your chance to win!
President's Corner
Important association updates by ARVC President/CEO, Linda Profaizer.
Healthcare Reform:
As you know, this is a very contentious topic. We have been surveying leadership from across the country on their thoughts regarding this type of legislation. If you would like to share your thoughts with ARVC so that we can formulate a position on key health care issues and align with coalitions with similar views, CLICK HERE.
Battle Over Highway Reauthorization
The battle over the future of surface transportation reauthorization continues to heat up. While the Obama Administration (and Senate transportation leaders) believes there ought to be a short-term reauthorization (18 months) and a fix to restore funds to the nearly depleted Highway Trust Fund, House transportation leaders - especially House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Jim Oberstar of Minnesota - strongly disagree.
Rep. Oberstar argues that keeping pressure on Congress to act and make hard decisions on future funding for highways and rail is essential and ought to happen this year. The current surface transportation program expires at the end of September, and while billions were provided in the American Recovery and Restoration Act of 2009 (the economic stimulus bill), the need to invest hundreds of billions of dollars in highway and rail infrastructure will help determine the long-term success of travel in this country.
And the biggest question and challenge remains unanswered: How to provide adequate revenues to pay for repair and expanded highways and rail lines to move people and goods and help the economy recover and prosper.
More PR Coverage
Just spent a half hour on the radio today with Rick Windham and his “The Outdoor Connection” show from North Platte, Nebraska. Good interview talking about our member parks. Also provided information to the Portland Oregon Magazine about member parks in Oregon for an upcoming article they are working on and also the Portland Press. Also just today we had an interview with CMU Public Radio out of Michigan,
We'd Like to Know How You Are Doing
We know these can be tough, scary times. We'd like to know how you are coping with the economy, where you are marketing, any information on reservations compared to last year or current occupancy. You can go online to make comments at goodnews@arvc.org or newsofconcern@arvc.org or just email me directly at lprofaizer@arvc.org. Thanks!
Marketing/Communications
ARVC Marketing information submitted by ARVC Marketing & Communications Director, Kera Tomlin.
New Go Camping America Website
Please don’t forget to submit your upcoming events for August and September and even the rest of the year along with any packages or special rates to Grant Barnette, gbarnette@arvc.org so that he can add that information to the new www.GoCampingAmerica.com website. We are in beta testing at this moment and will let you know when it goes live!
ARVC and Airstream Team Up!
ARVC and Airstream have signed a marketing agreement where Airstream will provide ARVC members with the opportunity to offer affordable and unique Airstream RV rental accommodations. Special member pricing offered! Keep your eyes peeled for this special offer coming soon!
Plan-It Green Corner
Tell Us How Your Park Is GREEN
Email us and tell us what your park is doing to be green!! info@arvc.org
7 Cheap and Green Landscaping Tips
From online at: http://www.handyamerican.com/articles-cheap-landscaping-tips.asp
Landscaping encompasses many skills, each of which is subject to changes from year to year. Flowers are an example of this where certain species are in vogue one year and then another takes center stage the next.
One of the biggest trends that seems to be sticking is the move toward “green” landscaping. This may seem like an oxymoron but many landscaping principles are not self-sustaining and have to be repeated year after year in order for the landscape to flourish. A water-dependent grassy area that requires chemical fertilizers for its survival is an example of unsustainable landscaping which costs the hundreds per year in upkeep.
The good news is that you don't have to spend a fortune on being “green” in your own park. There are many steps you can take to have beautiful landscaping at a fraction of the cost of what you may be spending now. To read more click here.
Education Corner
Educational information submitted by ARVC Education Director, Cheryl Smith.
There’s Still A Chance to Learn about Social Networking!
If you missed the Social Networking 101 webinar about how you can use Twitter and Facebook for your Park, it’s not too late! You can purchase the recording at http://store.arvc.org/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=ARVCWEB1.
Find out what all the fuss is about!
Have YOU Thought About Joining a 20 GROUP?
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are 20 groups? ARVC 20 Groups are composed of non-competing campgrounds voluntarily and mutually associated to provide a confidential exchange of experiences, problems, and ideas at regular meetings. They receive the benefit of reliable historical comparative operating data on a periodic basis.
How are 20 groups formed? To read more click here.
In the News Corner
ARVC tracks news alerts and RSS feeds for the latest information concerning member parks, campgrounds and the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds. Here is some of the most recent press coverage.
People Head to Campgrounds for Holiday Weekend
07/03/09 - 12:46 PM | Associated Press | Tallahassee, FL
A lot of people will be traveling this Fourth of July weekend. Many of them will be traveling to a state park or a private campground to spend the long weekend outdoors. To read more click here.
Campgrounds develop full service, on-site restaurants.
by The Republican Entertainment Desk | Wednesday June 24, 2009, 7:26 AM
OFF THE MENU
By HUGH ROBERT
Campground vacations used to mean a steady diet of fire-grilled burgers, potato chips, and canned beans. That's not the case anymore, however, as the American appetite for comfort and convenience encourages an increasing number of campgrounds and RV parks to develop full service, on-site restaurants. To read more click here.
Travel destinations in '09: tents, cabins
Families save money, get back to basics by camping close to home
July 4, 2009 | By Charity Bonner cbonner@scn1.com
Families who ordinarily travel across the country or overseas seeking a piece of the new or exotic are finding it right here in the Fox Valley. The economy is affecting the traditional family vacation, and more people are finding fun in the quintessential summer activity: camping. To read more click here.