RV COOKING SHOW FRIENDSHIP
Livingston, TX (January 28, 2008) - The RV Cooking Show recently unveiled yet another way to connect with viewers – the RV Cooking Show blog. Sharing camping tidbits, recipes, restaurants, interesting places to visit and a slice of daily life on the road, RV Cooking Show host Evanne Schmarder is eager to “talk” directly with the show’s viewership. “Whether a full-timer, part-timer or vacationer, RVers share a special wanderlust and take pleasure in making friends along the way. I look forward to creating a whole community of virtual friends that love to travel and love to eat. What could be better?” remarked Ms. Schmarder.
The RV Cooking Show blog can be found at www.RVCookingShow.com. Show sponsors may link to the RV Cooking Show blog, creating buzz and providing interesting content for their websites. Readers are encouraged to check in frequently, leave comments and share their travels, hobbies, recipes, and more around the RV Cooking Show’s virtual campfire.
The RV Cooking Show is seeking to expand its network of high quality sponsors. Sponsorship opportunities are available to companies as well as individual campgrounds and resorts. Contact Evanne Schmarder at evanne@rvcookingshow.com or 702-460-9863 for more information.
About the RV Cooking Show
A virtual cooking class on wheels with an RV travel component, The RV Cooking Show takes viewers on adventures to some of the most sought-after or interesting but little-known RV locales in the country and then creates a healthy, easy, delicious destination-related dish in host Evanne Schmarder’s RV kitchen. An RV industry insider, full-time RVer Ms. Schmarder connects with viewers in part by “living the (their) RV dream”. She is a professional speaker, writer, foodie and unabashed explorer. She may be contacted at Evanne@RVCookingShow.com or 702-460-9863. You may also log on to www.RVCookingShow.com for more details.
$4.5M MAINE CAMPING RESORT RENOVATION
Bar Harbor, ME -- According to a recent Recreation Vehicle Industry Association study, more than 7 million U.S. families own RVs. That number is expected to grow to 8 million by 2010 as baby boomers age into their prime RV-buying years – ten percent of all Americans 55 and older are RV owners.
Add RV renters to the mix – the RV rental business is now a $350-million-a-year enterprise – and the number of RVers across the U.S. jumps to 30 million. This group travels an average of 4,500 miles and 30 days a year.
So, it’s no wonder that campground owners are expanding and sprucing their facilities to meet the demand.
Bar Harbor Camp Resorts owner Patty Rae Stanley is at the forefront. Stanley, along with Chicago-based investment partner Equity LifeStyle Properties, Inc. (NYSE: ELS), owns three resorts in Downeast Maine, and she just spent ten months and $4.5 million dollars completely reconstructing one of them – Narrows Too. Located just a few miles from two of Maine’s most popular vacation destinations, Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, Narrows Too now offers travelers nearly 200 full-hookup sites (30/50 amp electric, cable, Wi-Fi, water and sewer), a brand new 2500 sq.ft. entertainment center, new laundry and bathhouses, and a new registration office and store.
“We went from 120 campsites to 230,” said Stanley. “Then we paved all the roads and reconfigured most of the grounds so the RV sites can accommodate Big Rigs with ease – and so most have views of the sea and the mountains.
“All these renovations make Narrows Too the newest, most up-to-date camping facility in New England,” she said.
According to Stanley, Narrows Too and its Bar Harbor Camping Resorts sister campgrounds – Mt. Desert Narrows in Bar Harbor and Patten Pond in Ellsworth – also offer all the extras RVers are looking for. Vacationers enjoy heated pools and free shuttle service to Bar Harbor and other area attractions at Mt. Desert Narrows and Narrows Too and kayak and canoe rentals at Patten Pond. All three resorts offer beautiful Maine scenery, well-kept grounds, pancake breakfasts and ice cream socials, free movie nights, and live entertainment.
“RV ownership in the U.S. is growing faster than the population, largely because of the baby boomers, but also among younger families,” said Stanley. “We know today’s RVers expect comfort, convenience, and a good time. So, that’s what we provide. Our brand new Narrows Too has it all.”
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For more information, or to arrange a Narrows Too tour or an interview with Pat Stanley, please contact Jan Kaufman, JGroup Advertising, at 207-990-3879 or jkaufman@jgroupadvertising.com.
THE NATIONS LARGEST RV RALLY GATHERS IN REDMOND,OR
Redmond,OR (June 7, 2007) – Nearly six million RV owners are planning to hit the roads this summer, as reported in a recent survey done by the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA). With over 10,000 of this year’s road-warriors expected to load-up, roll-out and pull-in to The Rally 2007, the nation’s largest RV Rally, July 19 through 22 at Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center in Redmond, Oregon.
More than nine million people in the U.S. now own RVs, and for tens of thousands of them, this is the event and vacation destination of the year. RV newbies and veterans alike will gather to celebrate and explore the wildly popular recreation lifestyle through seminars, exhibits, entertainment, games and meetings with industry experts from all over the world.
“The Rally continues to grow in popularity year after year,” said Sue Bray, vice president and executive director of Good Sam Club. “From youth programs through travel seminars to concerts and activities, there’s something for everyone. The Rally is a once-a-year event not to be missed.”
Over 4,500 RVs are expected to attend The Rally each day with more than a thousand unique and personalized RV rigs to view, including multi-million dollar luxury motor coaches, equipped with the finest accessories and toys. Additionally, hundreds of RV products will be on display, together with the latest high-tech accessories, gadgets and gizmos to help RVers enjoy the great outdoors in style.
The Rally isn’t merely an exposition, it’s an experience. Guests will also have the opportunity to partake in informative RV seminars by industry experts to help RVers master and manage the RV lifestyle, discovering topics from ‘how to cook a pumpkin pie on a campfire’ to ‘RV tours and caraventures.’
Additionally, The Rally will showcase nightly entertainment, including actress, comedienne and New York Times bestselling author Suzanne Somers, July 19, as well as Gary Puckett and BJ Thomas, July 20; Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, July 21; and Ticket to Ride, July 22.
This year’s event will also conduct a hilarious attempt to break the World Record for "Largest Whoopee Cushion Sit," as well as a canine swim suit competition and dog/owner look-alike contest. The Rally also provides a complimentary youth activity program for children, ages 6 to 12, and an extensive program for teenagers, ages 13 to 17, where they will meet other youths involved with RVing families, play games and take excursions. Additionally, the show will host daily wine tasting by Livingston Cellars of EJ Gallo Wineries.
The Rally, formerly called the Great North American RV Rally, is an annual event hosted by the Good Sam Club, Camping World President’s Club, Camp Club USA, Coast to Coast Resorts, Woodall's and Trailer Life and MotorHome magazines. All the organizations are either owned by or affiliated with Affinity Group Inc., which is headquartered in Ventura, Calif.
Day admission is $10.00 for adults, while kids 12 and under are free. Campsites start at $169.00 for two people. For more information, log on to www.therally.com.
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About Affinity Group, Inc. The Affinity Group, Inc. (AGI), www.affinitygroup.com, and its affiliated companies serve the safety, security, comfort and convenience needs of the North American outdoor and recreational vehicle market.
With various companies, brands, products and services, AGI targets almost every aspect of this diverse and dynamic niche market. Affiliated companies include the Good Sam Club, Camping World, Coast to Coast Resorts, Golf Card International, TL Enterprises, Ehlert Publishing, rv.net, and Woodall’s. The corporate headquarters are located in Ventura, Calif. Subsidiary operations and divisions can be found at multiple locations throughout the United States.
PRESIDENT DECLARES JUNE GREAT OUTDOORS MONTH
Great Outdoors Month, 2006 - May 23, 2006
A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America
Great Outdoors Month is an opportunity to celebrate and experience America's natural splendor and renew our commitment to conserve our air, water, and land. During this month, we also honor the dedicated men and women who volunteer to help protect our natural resources.
Americans live amid many wonders of nature. Our Nation's varied landscapes include sandy beaches, expansive forests, emerald waters, and towering mountains. Through biking, swimming, skiing, hiking, and many other activities, Americans are enjoying our country's magnificent scenery and the healthy benefits of outdoor recreation.
To ensure that our natural heritage remains a source of pride for all our citizens, my Administration is committed to conserving America's public lands and natural resources and pursuing environmentally responsible initiatives. We are working to accelerate research into cleaner sources of energy, protect our water sources, and encourage the use of hybrid cars. We have put in place a series of clean air regulations that will help us to meet air quality standards. Through efforts like these, we will continue our Nation's economic growth and protect the environment.
Our citizens play an important role in protecting our natural spaces. Throughout our country, Americans are volunteering in their communities for environmental education programs, local parks, nature conservancies, and other stewardship opportunities. These devoted individuals are working to maintain park trails, restore wildlife habitats, plant trees, and clear overgrowth. I appreciate these volunteers for their efforts to keep America beautiful, and I encourage all Americans to demonstrate good stewardship and an appreciation for the outdoors. Individuals interested in volunteering can visit the Department of the Interior's Take Pride in America website at takepride.gov.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty third day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.
GEORGE W. BUSH
SPRINGTIME, AND THE CAMPING IS BUSY
FALLS CHURCH, VA (May 23, 2006) – One in ten US residents is classified as either an “active camper” or “RVer” – that’s over 23 million people! And with glorious spring weather reaching most of the country, nearly 85% of the RV owners are taking to the roadways for a weekend getaway; while over 60% of these travel enthusiasts take trips of 5 nights or longer, and nearly 15% head out on season-long trips. This, according to The American Camper: Profiles and Perspectives, a research project of the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds (ARVC), which explores the unique lifestyles and leisure travel preferences/intentions of active campers and RV owners. The study was conducted by Orlando based Yesawich, Pepperdine, Brown & Russell (YPB&R).
Want a few more findings? - With over 23 million RV owners and active campers spending an average of $60/day (as a family) for an average 26.5 nights/year, the contribution to the United States economy from this segment of the population is in the billions each year.
- The most influential factors in selecting a campground or RV park/resort among active campers are: the closeness to nature, the location and the availability of clean, high-quality restrooms on premises, and the safety of the campground or RV park.
- Nearly half of active campers are influenced by the availability of secluded sites, a location near national tourist attractions, the rating of the campground or RV resort/park in a national camping directory, and the availability of nature trails.
- Nearly half of active campers finds the option to bring their pet along to be influential
- More than one half of both RV owners and active campers are interested in visiting the western region of the U.S. during the next two years; four in ten RV owners and one third of active campers are interested in visiting the south; approximately one quarter is interested in visiting the Midwest; while approximately two in ten are interested in the Northeast.
- Among RV owners, fishing is the most popular physical activity on a camping trip, with swimming and hiking following closely; while for active campers, hiking and swimming are the most popular, with nearly one half also desiring fishing and nearly four in ten desiring bird or animal watching.
The study’s results are based on a sample of 1602 active campers and RV owners (those adults who have taken one or more overnight trips in which they stayed in a campground or RV park/resort in the past two years) that was divided into two segments. The first consists of a nationally projectable sample of 802 active campers who were targeted using a random-digit dialing survey. The second segment is a sample of 800 known RV owners obtained via a telephone interview.
THE UNITED STATES’ CAMPERS AND RV OWNERS CHARACTERIZED AS “ACTIVE OLDER”, MARRIED ADULTS BY RECENT STUDY The National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds’ Study Reveals
Demographic Profiles of this Growing Population Segment FALLS CHURCH, VA (February 27, 2006) – A recent study by the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds (ARVC), entitled The American Camper: Profiles and Perspectives, has revealed a demographic profile of the United States’ campers and RV owners.
According to the study, 10 percent of adults in the United States have taken an overnight trip to a campground or RV park/resort in the past two years – making this segment of the population nearly 23 million adults in the United States alone.
These RV owners and campers tend to be Caucasian, married, and have an annual household income greater than $50,000 – all significantly higher than the general population.
Other key demographic findings include: - Boomers (aged 41-59) and Matures (aged 60+) make up the largest proportions of RV owners, with more than four in ten falling in each generational group.
- Boomers make up the largest share of campers (nearly 50 percent).
- Grandparents comprise 63 percent of RV owners and 35 percent of campers. Of these grandparents, approximately 55 percent of both have traveled with grandchildren on one or more trips in the past two years.
The study also revealed that four percent of the adults in the United States – or approximately 8.8 million adults – own an RV and have taken an overnight trip to a campground or RV park/resort in the past two years where they stayed in an RV, cabin, tent or park trailer.
Other interesting findings include: - 58 percent of campers and 66 percent of RV owners state that they plan to go camping/RVing more when they get older and approach retirement.
- 63 percent of both campers and RV owners consider themselves a “destination camper” (one who is going to spend their vacation at one destination) (this includes seasonal campers)
The study’s results are based on a sample of 1602 active campers and RV owners (those adults who have taken one or more overnight trips in which they stayed in a campground or RV park/resort in the past two years) that was divided into two segments. The first consists of a nationally projectable sample of 802 active campers who were targeted using a random-digit dialing survey. The second segment is a sample of 800 known RV owners obtained via a telephone interview.
FOR AN AFFORDABLE FAMILY VACATION TRY CAMPING
FALLS CHURCH, VA (March 7, 2006) – For those wondering how to afford a family vacation this year, stop. A camping trip will set the stage for quality family time and provide abundant recreational opportunities without breaking the budget. It can be a six-day family of four vacation for under $1000.
Commercially owned RV parks, RV resorts and campgrounds make great family destinations. And the average nightly site fee ranges $20-$30, significantly less than an overnight stay in a motel.
Most parks have lakes for fishing, boating and swimming, playground facilities, hiking trails, basketball courts and other amenities. And many also offer planned activities, like nature crafts, ice cream socials and free movies for children and families. Bring along your own balls and gloves, bikes and board games for a jam-packed experience. When camping, there’s plenty of time for the family to play together, then unwind while enjoying the sunset, then watching for shooting stars.
Camping doesn’t mean roughing it. Basic campsites feature a fire-pit, grill, and picnic table as well as general bathroom and shower facilities. However, many commercial parks offer much more than these basic amenities, including heated swimming pools, high-speed wireless Internet access, RV sites with cable TV. Then there are cabins, RV rentals, cottages and lodges to stay in, aside from a pitched tent. Granted, there is some work to camping, but it’s a fun way to involve the kids in routine chores.
The Bottom Line: an enriching family camping vacation for four can be had for under $1000 – figuring a $600 one-time cost to buy new gear (family tent, sleeping bags, camp stove, cooler), less than $200 for the week’s campground fees and $200 for groceries/ice and gas. And, once the gear’s been bought, each subsequent camping trip will cost even less. (Alternatively, cabin and RV site rentals can range from $30 for bare bones, on up to over $100 night and are a good way to test the camping waters before investing in gear.). For an economical, adventurous, safe, bond-strengthening and memory-filled vacation, take your family camping, you won’t be alone. According to a recent National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds (ARVC) study: - Over the last two years, nearly 70% of adult active campers took at least one vacation with their family – that’s over 20 million U.S. residents.
- 50% of active campers and RV owners have taken trips with extended family, including children.
- Six in ten RV owners report being grandparents, with more than half traveling with their grandchildren during the past two years.
- 79% of active campers utilized a “family-oriented” campground during the last 12 months.
THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF RV PARKS AND CAMPGROUNDS APPOINTS YESAWICH, PEPPERDINE, BROWN AND RUSSELL AS PUBLIC RELATIONS AGENCY
ORLANDO, FL (January 17, 2006) – The National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds (ARVC) has selected Yesawich, Pepperdine, Brown and Russell, Orlando, Fla., to conduct a six-month public relations and publicity campaign.
The primary focus of the public relations program will be to generate heightened awareness and media coverage for the results of an important national psychographic and trends study of American RVers’ and campers’ use of RV parks and campgrounds, titled “The American Camper: Profiles and Perspectives.”
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF RV PARKS AND CAMPGROUNDS EXPLORES THE LIVES AND TRAVELS OF ACTIVE CAMPERS AND RV OWNERS
The United States’ 29 million active campers and RV owners contribute billions to the national economy annually
FALLS CHURCH, VA (January 24, 2006) – The American Camper: Profiles and Perspectives, a research project of the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds (ARVC), explores the unique lifestyles and leisure travel preferences/intentions of active campers and RV owners. The study was conducted by Orlando based Yesawich, Pepperdine, Brown and Russell.
The study’s results are based on a sample of 1602 active campers and RV owners (those adults who have taken one or more overnight trips in which they stayed in a campground or RV park/resort in the past two years) that was divided into two segments. The first consists of a nationally projectable sample of 802 active campers who were targeted using a random-digit dialing survey. The second segment is a sample of 800 known RV owners obtained via a telephone interview.
Among the key findings in the study:
- With over 29 million RV owners and active campers spending an average of $60/day (as a family) for 26.5 nights/year, the contribution to the United States economy from this segment of the population is over $20 billion annually.
- Although nearly 40% of RV owners mention gas prices behind their intention to take fewer trips in the next year; one-quarter of RVers would NOT reevaluate their travel plans until the price of gasoline reaches $4 per gallon or more.
- 50% of both RV owners and active campers have taken trips with extended family, including grandparents and grandchildren.
- Boomers and Matures comprise nearly 90% of RV owners, while Boomers alone make up nearly 50% of active campers.
- More than 50% of both RV owners and active campers would like to visit the western United States during the next two years.
- Nearly 70% of RV owners are booking reservations via phone, as compared to a bit over 30% who book online directly through the campground or RV park/resort.
- Based on one or more trips in the last two years, by far nearly 60% of RV enthusiasts are hitting the road purely for entertainment/enjoyment, though 41% of RVers do so to visit friends/family, 16% for class/family reunions, and nearly one in ten for work in the area.
- Amenities sought after in both RV parks and campgrounds include larger sites (nearly 50%), high ratings in a national camping directory, attractive landscaping and cooking areas, and quick check-in.
“ARVC was reassured to find that outside factors, such as gas prices, have limited impact on the enthusiasm and dedication that RVers and campers of all ages have towards this form of recreation which encourages appreciation of nature’s wonders,” stated ARVC President Linda Profaizer. “The results of the study provide our industry with factual information to convey to the media and the public at large.”
RVing ISN’T JUST FOR VACATION, IT’S AN EMERGENT TOOL
Parents under age 35 account for largest gains in RV purchases since 2002
FALLS CHURCH, VA (March 14, 2006) – Recreation vehicle ownership in the United States has reached record levels with 8.8 million American adults owning at least one RV, this according to The American Camper: Profiles and Perspectives, a research project of the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds (ARVC). Though a leading force behind the upswing in RV ownership/vacationing is the enormous baby boomer generation, a study by the University of Michigan’s Survey Research Center (commissioned by the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association/RVIA) found that high RV ownership now extends across a 40-year span, from ages 35 to 75.
And these “land yachts,” long popular with retirees, are being bought with increasing frequency by families with young children. Those under age 35 posted the largest gains in RV ownership rates during the past four years.
Some surmise the growth of home schooling may be a contributing factor. What better classroom for geography, American history and earth science lessons than in the family RV while touring our nation coast to coast, camping in national parks and commercial facilities in close proximity to historic points of interest.
The American Camper: Profiles and Perspectives, explores the unique lifestyles and leisure travel preferences/intentions of active campers and RV owners. Among other findings in the study: - 80% of RV owners utilized family-oriented RV Parks/Resorts during the past year
- 78% of RV owners have enjoyed exploring nature while staying in an RV Park/Resort
- 63% of RV owners find that being close to nature is extremely important when selecting an RV Park/Resort
- 62% of RV owners participated in visiting a historic or cultural site
- 49% of RV owners participated in bird or animal watching while staying in an RV Park/Resort
- 48% of RV owners took a trip with extended family, along with the children
- 22% of RV owners stressed the importance of the availability of activities for children and teens at or near the campground or RV Park/Resort
GPS POI US and National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds announce the immediate availability of the GoCampingAmerica.com RV Park and Campground Directory in GPS points-of-interest (POI) format.
DES MOINES (February 21, 2007) - Des Moines, IA based GPS POI US and Falls Church, VA based National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds (ARVC) announce the immediate availability of the GoCampingAmerica.com RV Park and Campground Directory in GPS points-of-interest (POI) format.
Leading GPS device manufacturers have empowered consumers by providing them the ability to install custom POI files. This feature permits consumers to customize their GPS devices to their own unique interests.
The release of the GoCampingAmerica.com RV GPS file represents the industry’s first branded custom POI file.
Linda Profaizer, ARVC President notes, “By enabling customers to install their own POI files, the GPS manufacturers have opened up powerful doors for our members and their customers. No longer do we have to wait for the GPS mapping providers to include our member RV parks and campgrounds in their databases. Now, with the expertise of GPS POI US, we can get our member park’s locations directly into the hands of our target consumers, and in a much more timely manner.”
“Linda and her staff really recognized the power that custom POI files provides their organization” says GPS POI US President Jeff Carpenter. “ARVC is providing their members with a great service, by getting their member’s RV park and campground locations directly into the hands of RV travelers across the US.”
The GoCampingAmerica.com RV GPS POI file is immediately available at http://www.findrvcampgrounds.com as an electronic download at a cost of $35. Annual updates to the file will be available for $20. The file contains over 4000 member parks and campgrounds, including their street address, and phone number. Using a compatible GPS, consumers will be auto-routed directly to the campground’s location. The GPS POI file is compatible with many Garmin, TomTom, Magellan and Navman GPS devices.
The National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds (ARVC) is the national trade association representing over 4000 RV parks and campgrounds throughout the United States and Canada. The association is headquartered in Falls Church, Va. More information about the association can be found at www.arvc.org . Additional information about the association's member parks, an online directory of parks and other camping services, and general information for camping consumers can be found at http://www.gocampinamerica.com . Additional information about RVs and RV’ing can be found at http://www.gorving.com .
GPS POI US operates one of the leading GPS POI portals on the Internet at http://www.gps-poi-us.com where hundreds of custom GPS POI files are available, including the industry leading Red Light Traffic Camera GPS Alert file. GPS POI US provides organizations with the expertise to put their location-based content directly in the hands of their customer’s GPS devices. |