KOA Owners Association Latest News

Heartland KOA Owner's Association Minutes - Spring Meeting

KOA Owners Association — Fri, 18 May 2012 18:37:27 GMT

Heartland KOA Owner’s Associations

2012 Spring Meeting Minutes

March 14, 2012

The spring meeting of the Heartland Owner’s Association was called to order at 8:54 am on Wednesday, March 14, 2012 at Branson KOA by President, Terry Haith.

Those in attendance were:

Scott & Diane King, Springfield KOA – 8 yrs.

Kim & Ralph Newell, Branson KOA-6 yrs.

Jodie & Chad Bartelson, Wellington KOA – 3 yrs.

Terry & Tina Haith, Oklahoma East KOA – 13 yrs.

Coralee Farley, Nancy, Rose & Linell, Tulsa NE KOA -4yrs

Tina Fisher – Joplin KOA-7-8yrs

Peggy Ruzicka – starting 2nd year

Donna Bridges & Bob McArthur, Eureka Springs KOA - 3rd year

Larry Clay – Little Rock North KOA

Officers Reports

Terry Haith, President, reported at the Area 4 OA meeting at convention proposed the quality issue from Heartland OA and a metered electric exemption issue from the Texas portion. Diane King to give follow up in OA report, she was elected for 1 of the Area 4 positions. Terri presented our check to national OA at convention for the disaster relief and challenged other OAs to beat or match next year. Scott King was appointed to the Marketing Partners; we do not have a representative on the Operation Partners at this time from the Heartland group.

Jodie Bartelson, secretary, distributed minutes from the fall 2011 meeting. Kim Newell moved and Diane King seconded to approve the minutes as presented, motion passed.

Kim Newell, treasurer, reported an ending operating balance of $8,558.50. See attached report for details. Donna Bridges moved and Peggy Ruzicka seconded to approve the treasurer’s report as presented, motion passed.

Kim reported on the status of becoming a not for profit organization and our Employer ID number (EIN). When consulting with a CPA from Springfield, MO from October – February, a complete packet has been mailed and received by the IRS, but we are still waiting to hear the IRS’s decision. The CPA advised we wait to file taxes until a ruling is decided.

Scott King – Marketing partner

Scott reported KOA, Inc. is disappointed in the performance of the KOA Value Kard and are still reviewing the program. Also the group is looking at how to get more campers to stay within the system more than 1 night a year. He said he is very encouraged with Toby Hedges’ approach and encouraged us to contact her with ideas or any marketing issues or KOA.com issues you might find.

There is a new program in the development stages with Constant Contact Company to provide reasonably priced email coordination for an individual campground. He also mentioned that Kampsight 2.0 is in the works in conjunction with the Big 4 campgrounds from Australia. Roll-out date has not been determined.

This season’s Marketing promotions currently have approximately 175 out of 470 campgrounds participating. Some questioned whether that was somewhat because some campgrounds are not open or owners are just returning from their winters off. (If you haven’t seen these on ekamp, check it out or contact Scott with questions) Marketing groups is considering making future programs Opt Out so keep your eyes open.

Look for talking points from Mike Gast on fuel prices, especially if local media is contacting you for comment. (Coming to ekamp) Mike is also in the process of compiling a list of professional photographers around the nation that will come take pictures at a reasonable rate.

Gift card program seems to have hit a roadblock and is being slowed down by issues related to having KOAs in the US & Canada. Scott did not give much hope that it would happen in 2012. (Hopefully a pdf is attached from Marketing Partners’ info which Scott provided).

Legislative, Scott King:

Scott King said that ADA rules for pool lifts compliancy date is/was March15, 2012. (Later in our lunch presentation by Campbell Insurance, it was stated that so far any lawsuits awards have been to comply with the law and that damages had not been awarded.)

Scott also stated that some county/states have been going after parks for unpaid property taxes on deluxe cabins and that the issue is complicated if you remove and dispose of the hitch, axels and tires. Contact Scott for more details.

Ralph reminded those in MO especially that water quality and sewer treatment issues were continuing to be monitored closely by the state.

RV Shows:

St Louis, Diane King: It was very well attended and didn’t have enough KOA collateral. They plan to request 30% more collateral be sent for next year. Diane encouraged campgrounds to deliver old directories to the show nearest you or that you work.

Kansas City, Tina Fisher – Was well attended and ran out of collateral early as well.

OKC – Terry Haith – 4 day show that was charging $9 to enter. Very poorly attended and there was plenty of collateral, which he will save for the FMCA southern rally this fall. Suggested we not attend this RV show in 2013.

Kim moved and Diane King seconded that we request KOA send booth materials and reimburse booth rental for the FMCA South Central Rally Sept. 26-30, 2012.

Little Rock – Larry – ran out of collateral on Saturday. They had a great spot; however Good Sam was giving out a larger yellow bag.

Although not currently a KOA and Heartland supported RV show, Coralee is keeping an eye on attendance at the Tulsa RV show for possible attendance for this group in the future.

Owners Association Report-Diane King

Care Camps – Come Camp & Care weekend also using "The Big Weekend" as part of their advertising. Heartland had 12 campgrounds that did not donate money this year. Diane plans to contact them individually and see if she can help. She encouraged campgrounds to ask at registration if the camper wants to donate to Care Camps. There is an item for it in Kampstore and Diane would be glad to assist anybody in setting this up. Care Camps board is hopeful that each campground could donate $50 a week for their 3 busiest months. Said that Care Camps has a marketing function as well: to reflect a corporate culture of caring to reflect well on the KOA brand. Care Camps board has now set up a grant program for capital improvements at a Care Camp in addition to the donations we give annually. If you have a care camp near you and would like to deliver a check in person, let Diane know. There is $831,000 in the fund and the unapproved budget said they hope to distribute at least $400,000 next year. There is an RV donation program that is having rack cards developed for campgrounds to hand out to interested campers to benefit Care C amps. For CC&C weekend a coloring contest is created and the winners will be submitted and printed in next year’s Directory…look for details to follow from Care Camps board.

OA Board meeting report, Diane King:

There were 2 areas that presented resolutions related to not paying royalties on metered electric. KOA Inc. is willing to look at the issue. Currently only 16% of campgrounds are using & reporting metered electric to KOA Inc., yet 82% have 28+ day guests.

Ralph reported that KOA has removed two campgrounds related to this issue.

On the quality control resolution from Heartland, the National OA has made it a permanent agenda item for their bi-annual meetings.

Ralph attended this OA meeting, which is open to any OA member, and said he felt that some OA board members were trying to give justifications for the poor parks. He encouraged us to send letters to the OA board members expressing your concerns with poor quality parks and their effect on our business. KOA said they had plans of improvement for 21 campgrounds (bottom 5% which had negative NPS score in 2010). 70% or 15 had improved their NPS scores to a positive number, 3 were on development plans and 3 had been removed from the KOA system.

There is no system in place to have OA input on KOAs being considered for being brought into the system. A concern that parks that do not have RV sites are allowed to be in the directory before completing RV sites was raised.

Campbell Insurance provided lunch and a presentation on the ADA compliance in relation to pool lifts. As well they encouraged campground owners to encourage other insurance companies to look into providing insurance to campgrounds. He says KOA’s loss ratio is very good and could be provided.

Following lunch, Diane continued and encouraged anybody to write an article for the OA newsletter. Send directly to OA, but let her know as well. (info@koaowners.org)

This past week Bill Ranieri had a family emergency so a few of her questions were not quickly answered, but understandably so. She was embarrassed by the survey that was sent out and resent and mentioned it hadn’t been approved at a board meeting. She also said an effort was being made to increase notification of OA presidents of new campgrounds in the area. If you hear of one coming to your area, please notify Terry or the current OA president in the future so they can be welcomed and encouraged to become a part of our association.

John Burke, CFO, KOA Inc. is looking into the credit card processing options to reduce fees.

The national OA is proposing a by-law change removing the responsibility of sitting on the Care Camps board from the V.P’s responsibilities.

They are also looking into uniform alternative sources.

Diane also mentioned that KOA Inc. is looking at recognizing VIP campers at the Orlando convention.

Old Business

Under old business we went through proposed by- law, standing rules & disaster relief policy changes. Kim Newell will send out either by mail or e-mail the proposed changes 30 days prior to the next meeting, where they may be adopted by a vote. (If any changes are disagreed with at this meeting, it will take until the Spring 2013 meeting to approve)

Jodie presented her findings of a possible alternate source for uniforms but the company could not beat graphic imprints and had changed their shipping policy, so unfortunately not the best option. (http://gtmsportswear.com/)

New Business

A discussion was held on how to improve the VKR process and a sliding scale for renewal pricing was suggested.

Once again the idea that KOA Inc. should have a presence at the FMCA Indianapolis rally this fall was expressed. Diane or Scott King will express this request.

A discussion of the fairness of NPS scores being collected 365 days for all-year parks vs. only in main camping season for those only open a few months. It was stated that KOA Inc. had reviewed this and determined in most cases NPS scores were actually higher in the winter months. It was determined that we would not pursue a change as an organization.

Ralph advised that March 28, 2012 Branson was hosting the KOA Workkamper training. Described by one member as a chance to let your workkampers drink the "yellow Kool-Aid", and was stressed it is NOT a Kampsight training. However, having workkampers that believe in the KOA system is very important.

Coralee enlightened many of us with the fact that there is more pure aluminum in the tab of an aluminum can than in the rest of the can, so if you can save that part for various charities such as Ronald McDonald House.

Coralee also proposed that we host a cook off in the Spring of 2013 in conjunction with our Spring OA meeting. We could use it as a fund raiser for our organization.

Ralph Newell moved to host a chili cook off in April 2013 at Tulsa NE KOA with proceeds from the event to go to KOA Care camps. Tina Haith seconded the motion and it passed.

A question was raised how to improve our presence on GPS systems. Not much hope was given in this area.

The next meeting will be a 2 day meeting held the 1st & 2nd of October at Oklahoma City East KOA. This motion was made by Diane King and seconded by Peggy Ruzicka and passed. (This will be right after the FMCA rally in Shawnee so maybe you can make a long weekend out of it)

The RV Shows for 2013 will be:

KC – hoping Charlie & Linda from Topeka will coordinate

St. Louis- Diane King coordinator

Little Rock – Larry coordinator

Shawnee FMCA Rally Sept 26-30, 2012 Tina Haith –coordinate

Tina Haith and Diane King moved to adjourn. Motion passed.

Thank you Ralph, Kim & Angie for hosting us at your beautiful campground. The Hughes Brother’s show was wonderful as well. Hope to see you all in OKC this fall.

Attachments:

Treasurer’s report

Marketing partners report

Response to Quality issue given to OA-

Campbell Insurance ADA & bed bug handouts

Ralph Newell’s letter to OA regarding quality

Southeast Publications Press Release

KOA Owners Association — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 18:30:31 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 9, 2012

SOUTHEAST PUBLICATIONS RAISES OVER $20,000 AT ANNUAL SPRING AUCTION

FOR KOA CARE CAMPS 501(c)3 TO BENEFIT CHILDREN WITH CANCER

Southeast Publications is the 2nd largest donor to KOA Care Camps with over $400,000 raised and donated since 1994.

TAMARAC, FL. - Southeast Publications, the leader in guest guide production for RV Resorts, Campgrounds, Marinas, Recreational Facilities and Travel Industries held their 2012 Annual Spring Meeting in Palm Desert, California at the Emerald Desert RV Resort attended by almost 100 Sales Associates from across the US and Canada. Every year the Sales Associates hold an auction at the Spring and Fall Meetings to raise funds to benefit the KOA Care Camps non-profit organization that helps send kids with cancer to special camps where they can enjoy camping and recreation experiences.

"Southeast Publications has supported the KOA Care Camps program for the last 18 years, we believe in the benefits of camping and in giving back to others”, says Wally Warrick, CEO of Southeast Publications. "Camping is a fun activity and what a better way to help these children than giving them a chance to go camping”.

The 2012 Spring Auction was kicked-off with a donation from Sunland Resorts for $1,000; Signature Resorts donated $1,000 and RMS America Property Management and Reservation Software Developer for RV Resorts and Campgrounds donated $1,000. Auction items included donations from Sales Associates and raised $10,238. Wally Warrick, CEO of Southeast Publications matched the funds raised for a total donation from Southeast Publications of $20,238. Southeast Publications has raised and donated over $400,000 to KOA Care Camps.

“Our founder, Peter Warrick, chose KOA Care Camps to be the focus of our belief in giving back and we’ve continued with that tradition since 1994”, says Wayne Morris, Vice President of Southeast Publications.

About KOA Care Camps:

Care Camps is a non-profit charity of the KOA Owners Association. The KOA Care Camps Program was created in 1984 to assist in providing financial support to qualified special non-profit cancer camps for children throughout the US and Canada. Since 1984 more than $4,283,845 has been contributed.

For more information or to donate, please visit www.koacarecamps.org

About Southeast Publications:

Southeast Publications was founded in 1986 by Peter Warrick and has grown to be the industry leader in providing guest guides and directories for travel, recreational and hospitality industries with over 125 Sales Teams across the US and Canada. The Southeast Publications Corporate Headquarters is located in Tamarac, Florida and operates an 80,000 sq. ft. office and production facility where all jobs are serviced and produced in-house for all customers.

For more information, please visit www.SoutheastPublications.com

Contact:

Kal Gajraj

Marketing Director

Kal@SoutheastPublications.com

(800) 832-3292

KOA Day in Kenya Africa

KOA Owners Association — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 14:34:21 GMT

KOA Day in Kenya Africa

by Mike Kuper

Team Members: L to R: Angela (MCF beneficiary) Jeff & Cathy (Toronto North Cookstown KOA) Esther & Dr Charles Mulli (MCF founders) John & Vikki (team leaders) Kristie & Michael (Thunder Bay KOA) Gwen (team participant) Brian (team participant)

The team spent 10 days at MCF where we explored both Yatta and Ndalani which are the two MCF sites. We held the wee ones in the nursery and we visited classrooms and learned what the children dream to be in their future. We were overwhelmed with the gardens, cattle and chickens Dr Mulli has on site with hopes of having MCF self sustained in the near future. We visited Vipingo one of the 3 communities where Dr Charles has engaged children in education and a feeding program. Here we also planted trees and helped feed the children. Forever in our memory is the sound of the children singing as we fell asleep and the sweet singing of happy children in the morning! Every day is a Gift from God, and these days were wrapped with harmony. We learned to appreciate every moment, we learned how to pray.

The Mully Children's Family Charitable Foundation (MCFCF) is a Christian humanitarian organization committed to transforming the lives of orphaned, abandoned and abused children in Kenya.

In 1989, former street child Ev. Dr. Charles M. Mulli founded the Mully Children's Family (MCF) with his wife Esther and ever since they've been rescuing vulnerable children, giving them a place to call home, with access to education, training, medical care, counseling and parental love.

Over the past 20 years MCF has rehabilitated over 6,000 children and currently cares for over 2,000. MCF is the largest home for orphaned children in Kenya, and the only one with a strong emphasis on the rehabilitation of girls. MCF also operates three community day centers which provide food and basic primary education to children who have been orphaned but remain in the care of a relative.

http://www.mcfcf.org

http://www.facebook.com/MCFCF

Illinois KOA Owners Association Meeting Minutes

KOA Owners Association — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 13:58:41 GMT

ILLINOIS KOA OWNERS MEETING

Minutes

March 27, 2012

Lena KOA

Hosts: Joe & Diane

March 27th Owners meeting
- Welcome and introductions 9:00AM
o In attendance were 6 of the 9 Illinois parks to include Casey, Kankakee, Lena, Benton, LaSalle and Rock Island. Howard Hawkins, KOA and Carrol Murray OA representative.
- Financial Report given by John
- Prior meeting minutes reviewed.
- KOA HQ update from Howard Hawkins
o Howard introduced himself as our new BDC

o Talked about the new marketing plan using Constant Contacts

o Discussed the use of business plans

o Overview of the national marketing promotions

o Discussed the Bulls Eye Report and expanded features

o Let everyone know that the Kampsight webinars are available on E-Kamp as playbacks.

o Gave the KOA explanation concerning electric fees and royalties
- OA Area Rep
o Carrol Murray from West Omaha KOA is our OA area rep and attended our meeting and provided some OA perspective on the electric fee royalty issue.

o Carole also gave feedback on issues being discussed by the OA and took questions regarding the OA
- Old Business
o Marketing Efforts
- Rack Cards.
- Joe gave us an update on the rack cards and distribution to shows and visitor centers. He indicated that when centers open back up they will have cards on hand and that when additional cards are requested he sends them to the centers.
- Through the shows we stuffed several thousand cards and our inventory is now depleted so that we will need to print new cards for 2013. Everyone is to have any changes they would like into Joe at the next meeting. We have commitments from 8 of the 9 parks and hope Chicago Northwest will also participate in the next printing.
- KOA camping shows.
- Email Blast
o Rob stated he had most of the information for the spring blast scheduled for release on March 30^{th. He was not sure if Chicago Northwest was participating and John said he would contact Ernie.}

o Rob said the fall blast would go out about August 15th and everyone is on board with a question mark from Chicago.
- Lunch
- Park Tour
o Joe gave us a tour of the park, and what a great day to walk around.
- ADA
o Original ADA representative from the state had to cancel at last minute so John reviewed and presented some information on the subject. John will contact Doug Gamble from the state to see if he may be available for the fall meeting.

Next Meeting location and date

Next meeting will be at Casey KOA on October 16th for social time and meeting on October 17th.

There was some discussion about having a green energy person make a presentation. Rob indicated he knew a vendor that would be relatively close and he would contact to see if you would make a presentation.
Meeting adjourned at 2:30 pm

KOA Care Camps Donation in Honor of Frank and Melinda Christianson

KOA Owners Association — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 21:31:15 GMT

Mary E. Freeman of Ft. Meade, South Dakota made a generous donation of $1,000.00 to KOA Care Camps in honor of Frank and Melinda Christianson of Jackson MN KOA.

She indicated that while she was staying at the Christianson's KOA she became ill and they took such wonderful care of her that she wanted to do something special in their honor.

Way to go Frank & Melinda and of course Mary!!! How very generous and kind of all of you!!!

2012 State/Provincial Meetings

KOA Owners Association — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 17:28:17 GMT

Hi All and Happy New Year!

Please let us know if you have any upcoming KOA State/Provincial Meetings in 2012. We will post the information on the website. If you would like someone from the KOA Corporate Office and BDC's to attend your meeting please let us know so we can coordinate with the KOA Corporate Office.

Also, if there are any changes in State/Provincial Presidents please advise with current information. Thank you for your assistance with this information! I hope everyone has a VERY profitable 2012!!!

2011 Work Kamper of the Year Award

KOA Owners Association — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 19:18:36 GMT

Work Kamper of the Year Award 2011

Congratulations to the Work Kampers of the Year Sam & Linda Davis. They were chosen among six other outstanding finalists.

The Criteria for Work Kamper Award:
1. The Work Kamper nominee must have an active membership in the KOA Work Kamper Program. Their resume may be inactive only if currently working at a KOA Kampground.
2. Demonstrate loyalty to the KOA Organization.
3. Demonstrate outstanding customer skills per the "Making It Great" Program. The Work Kamper nominee is an employee who goes above and beyond on the campground, is a team player and gets along well with peers. Demonstrates positive energy and attitude proving to be an asset to the campground atmosphere.

2011 WE ARE FAMILY AWARD WINNERS

KOA Owners Association — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 19:08:54 GMT

WINNERS OF THE WE ARE FAMILY AWARD 2011

The criteria for the WE ARE FAMILY AWARD is based on KOA Owners Association family members who help other family members beyond the call of duty as well as/or to those who consistently show special qualities that contribute to the whole KOA system.

We were proud to present the WE ARE FAMILY award this year to Bill and Georgette Jones of Madison/Pittsburgh S.E. KOA, in appreciation for the years of outstanding service in the KOA Owners Association with their dedication and concern for the welfare of fellow Owners.

RV Show Certificate of Insurance Information

KOA Owners Association — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 14:44:26 GMT

Please be advised if you need an RV Show Certificate of Insurance you can email the following information to us at info@koaowners.org:

Who the certificate is to be made out to

Place the show will be held

Show Address

Contact at the Show

Our contact for Show Insurance Certificate is Leana DeFurio with Outdoor Insurance Group, Inc., 726 Front Street, Suite C, Louisville, CO 80027, (303) 951-5052, email leana@oigcorp.com

If you need any additional information please let us know by calling 800-678-9976 or from CANADA 888-461-2062 or email us at info@koaowners.org

Illinois KOA Owners Meeting Minutes

KOA Owners Association — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 14:11:22 GMT

ILLINOIS KOA OWNERS MEETING

Minutes

October 25, 2011

LaSalle/Peru KOA

Hosts: Linda & Dave

•· October 25^th Owners meeting

•· Welcome and introductions 9:00AM

•o In attendance were 8 of the 9 Illinois parks to include Casey, Springfield, Kankakee, Lena, Granite City, Benton, LaSalle and

Rock Island.

•· Financial Report given by John

•· Prior meeting minutes

•· KOA HQ update from Jerry Clark

•· Old Business

•o Marketing Efforts

•§ State visitor centers.

•·

Illinoishas new distribution point for the centers. Joe will send as needed and the owners will pay the cost of shipping from the general fund when Joe submits the costs. Joe states we should have enough rack cards for the 2012 season for shows and centers and should work on a new card in the fall of 2012.

•§ KOA camping shows.

•· In 2011 the owners covered the Rosemont, Quad Cities, Peoria and

Springfieldshows and it was agreed that the same shows will be covered in 2012. Rob will coordinate Rosemont, John, Quad Cities and Peoria. Stan the Springfieldshow. Agreed that each owner would send sufficient supplies of their park rack cards for distribution at each show.

•· Show dates: Rosemont February 15-19^th, Quad Cities February 24^th-26^th, Peoria March 2^nd – 4^th and

Springfield, March 30 to April 1.

•· For the Rosemont show it was agreed that Covert MI KOA will also participate working Friday, Saturday and Sunday if they desire. John to contact Tom at Covert to confirm.

•· To add a little extra to the booth all agreed we need mile marker signs for each park. Dave and Linda thought they could get them made at a reasonable cost to be covered from the general fund.

•§ Group Marketing Strategy

•· Email blast was discussed and the 8 parks in attendance agreed to do a spring and fall blast also inviting

ChicagoNW to participate. Anticipated cost about $50 per park.

•· Rob will coordinate and the following deadlines were established. If an owner fails to get information to Rob by the deadline Rob will use available information to move forward.

•· Deadlines are:

•o December 1, 2011 each park needs to send a new guest data base covering 2010 and 2011 to Rob.

•o December 1, 2011 each park should send their hot deal links to Rob, or as a default the email blast will direct the recipient to the parks hot deals site if the park has current hot deals or the park KOA.com site.

•o Joe will have hot deal theme & language to Rob for the spring blast by December 1, 2011.

•o Linda will have deal theme & language to Rob for the fall blast by March 15, 2012

•o The spring blast will be scheduled to be sent on March 15^th.

•o The fall blast will go out on August 15^th

•o Each park will evaluate the effectiveness of the blast for their park and the group will discuss and decide if future blast should be done.

•·

IllinoisOwners Web site was again discussed and it was decided that we would not pursue this at this time.

•· New Business

•§ Park tour LaSalle/Peru KOA conducted by Dave

•· Next Meeting location and date

•o Joe and Diane,

LenaKOA will hold the spring meeting on March 27, 2012. Everyone is invited to arrive on the 26^th for dinner and social time. Meeting on the 27^th from 9am to 3pm.

•· Thank you all for attending. Thank you Linda and Dave for hosting and Duffy’s was great.

•· Meeting adjourned at 3:00pm.

KOA Owners Association Auction News

KOA Owners Association — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 18:29:46 GMT

We are very excited about the upcoming KOA National Convention in Las Vegas! On the last night of the convention the Owners Association has a Dinner & Auction.

For those of you who are NOT familiar with the Auction Night activities, here is a preview of what to expect:

The Auction is the Owners Association's big fundraising event for KOA Care Camps. The Auction will be held in the Grand Ballroom on Wednesday, November 9, 2011 from 5:45 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. KOA Camps and vendors alike donate various items for the live and silent auction. This year there will be many big ticket items as well as KOA Camp Area-related items.

There will be music, food, drinks and entertainment galore! Also KOA, Inc. is going to have a Grand Prize drawing and the OA also has a Grand Prize offering. So please plan on attending as you must be present to win.

Prior to the event, the KOA Owners Association will have a booth at the EXPO. We are going to do things a little differently this year. If you will please stop by the OA booth at the EXPO, this will be where you will pick up your bidding paddle and your drink tickets.

Also during this time we will be selling tickets for the Reverse Raffle, which also raises funds for KOA Care Camps.

If for some reason you cannot come to the booth at the EXPO, bidding paddles will still be available at the beginning of the Auction. Also we will be selling Reverse Raffle tickets at the Auction.

If you would like more information regarding KOA Care Camps please go to our web page http://www.koacarecamps.org.

If you have any questions, please call the KOA Owners Association Business Office at 800-678-9976 or from CANADA 866-461-2062.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 2011 MEMBERSHIP SURVEY

KOA Owners Association — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 16:12:14 GMT

Executive Summary and Recommendations for 2011 Membership Survey

There were 159 owners who responded to our recent survey. This represents about a 40% return, which is considered an excellent return. The survey contained four structured questions and one open-ended question. Each question allowed respondents to list comments. Question 3 had the largest number of written comments (60), question 4 had 53 written responses, Question 1 had 19 written responses and Question 2 had 16 written responses. The open ended question had 49 written responses.

In term of the issues of most concern, (Question 1), over 74% indicated increasing short term nights was their highest priority, followed by marketing to short term campers (59.4%) and increasing internet traffic (50.3%). The emphasis of the comments to question 1 dealt with better and more directed marketing. Allowing rebates for a park to advertise to their specific market, and emphasis on reaching new camper more than existing campers were also emphasized. The idea would be to have KOA’ marketing aimed at new campers while individual campgrounds would market to new and existing campers. Some comments expressed the need for Inc. to educated the public on the advantages of KOA camping, emphasizing the family time camping provides. There is still some concern with the problems of KOA.com and building weekday traffic.

In question 2 nearly 50% indicated the need for operating cost reduction ideas as their most important priority, while over 39% indentified special marketing campaigns as most important. This correlated to responses in question 1 regarding marketing. The comments made after this question reflected the value or potential value of working with the 20 groups. Many comments indicated very favorable attitudes to the 20 group’s meetings. There were mixed reactions to the state/provincial associations, but overall respondents felt these associations did or could provide an important service. The comments reflected on concerns regarding marketing, and on the desire to receive more effective and frequent communications among owners with the OA, 20 groups and state/provincial associations.

Question 3 dealt with the owner’s outlook for this season. Over 83% believed this season would be good or fair. This question had 60 respondents to comment. While most respondents answered good or fair, the comment expressed did not reflect this attitude. Most of the comments centered on the problems with the economy, higher gas prices and bad weather. A couple of comments reflected on concerns with the competitiveness of rates. Most seemed hopeful that we would see a slight pick up for the second half.

Question 4 was a follow up to number 3. Those who thought there might be some improvement in the second half were less than 45%. The confidence level for improvement is low. Again, the comments followed along the lines of the previous question, and the best description is it’s a mixed bag with some optimism, but not a very strong outlook for improvement.

Question 5 was the open-ended question. There were 49 respondents who listed ideas, concerns or suggestions. The main issues centered on the following points:

a) more emphasis on overnight campers and their importance to the system

b) better focus on web marketing efforts

c) allow more reimbursement for directed marketing by individual campgrounds

d) need to increase quality level throughout the system

e) enhancing kampsite

f) overall growth issues

g) needs related to camping trends

h) lingering problems with koa.com

i) review strategy of cancellation policy with varying deposits based on level of stay (tent, cabin, lodge, etc)

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE OA TO CONSIDER

1. The OA become more actively involved with the 20 groups. The OA should facilitate closer working relationships with the 20 groups. The 20 groups have become an important part of operations for KOA owners. The OA should ask the various 20 groups to review and focus on certain priority issues identified in this survey. The OA can request the 20 groups to identify key issues regarding trends in the economy, cost cutting ideas and marketing. We can share the information received from these discussions with the membership. We can also ask the 20 groups to submit reports summarizing key issues discussed at their meetings and report them on the OA website, facebook or the OA newsletter. The emphasis would be on the owners to focus on strategic issues to better position themselves for growth and profit.

2. Develop more active participation with the state/provincial associations.

There appears to be differences of the activities and services of the various associations. While we have implemented regular communications with these associations the focus of these communications have mainly been on updating them on OA activities, and keeping updated on meeting dates and current leadership. The OA can help in program planning, information exchange, announcements, etc. Area directors usually attend all or most of these meetings. We could ask to have them present a report at these meeting updating attendees on issues, problems, opportunities, etc. If videos could be taken they could be shown on the website or facebook to create more interest about these meetings.

3. The OA should encourage members to focus on macro issues.

By focusing on issues such as the economy, energy, green policies, employment, etc. the OA can help to provide insights to the membership to help them in developing strategic plans to better situate them for growth in camper nights, increased revenue and appropriate cost cutting opportunities.

4. Encourage members to submit articles on successful marketing campaigns and

cost reduction.

These articles can be published on the website, facebook and/or in the OA newsletter. We could introduce a marketing corner, or cost reduction corner similar to the current mentor corner and workamper corner. These two existing sections are generating interest among owners. By placing them on the web or facebook we would provide more current information to our owners which would be a great service.

5. Recognize contributors to the newsletter, facebook or website.

The OA could recognize owners that have submitted articles during the year with a certificate and award at the OA annual meeting. In addition to recognition at the meeting they could also be recognized on the website or facebook.

6 Request a more active role with Inc. in planning the KOA convention.

With OA representation on a planning committee for the convention, owners could recommend seminar content on issues identified by owners to be presented at the annual convention. They could also make suggestions for cost cutting measures at the convention to reduce the cost of attending.

7. Conduct membership surveys of a regular schedule.

This should be done no more frequently than every year or every other year, and should be done in late winter or early spring.

KOA OA SURVEY RESULTS

KOA Owners Association — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 16:10:36 GMT

KOA Owners Association Survey Results

Coming shortly....

KOA Owners Association/KOA National Convention November 6-9, 2011

KOA Owners Association — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 19:38:36 GMT

KOA Owners Association
Schedule for KOA National Convention
Las Vegas
South Point Hotel & Casino
November 6 - 9, 2011

Sunday, November 6
7am - 12pm
KOA Owners Association
Board Meeting
Conference Center
Huntington

Monday, November 7
4p - 5p
All OA Area Meetings
Sonoma A, B, C/Napa A, B, C, D

5:15p - 6:15p
OA Care Camps Board Meeting
Huntington

6:30p - 7:30p
OA Disaster Relief Board Meeting
Huntington

Tuesday, November 8
4:45p - 6:15p
OA Annual Meeting
Showroom

Wednesday, November 9
1p - 2p
OA Association New/Old Board Meeting
Joshua

WE ARE FAMILY AWARD

KOA Owners Association — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 17:44:04 GMT

“We Are Family Award” Nominations 2011

The KOA Owners Association is looking to receive nominations for this year’s recipient of the "We Are Family Award" that will be presented at the Las Vegas Annual Meeting. Please get your nominations into the OA Office no later than October 7, 2011.

You can e-mail at info@koaowners.org, or fax your nomination to: 205/823-2760

The nominees should be a match for one or all of the following criteria, and it is not limited to the KOA Owners Association membership.

The KOA Owners Association family member(s) who help other family members beyond the call of duty as well as/or to those who consistently show special qualities that contribute to the whole KOA system.

The KOA Owners Association created and first presented this award at the convention in November 2000. At which time there were three recipients:
1) Judy Whiting
2) Pat Hittmeier
3) Carol & Walt Preble

The following years was limited to one outstanding KOA family member/contributor

2001-Jim & Jane Rose
2002- Mike & Rowena Bell
2003-Marv & Carol Linde
2004-Loren Smith
2005-no nominations
2006-Jim & Audrey Eberhart
2007- Jim Finch
2008-Jerry & Barbara Dale
2009-Mike & Kristi Kuper
2010-Garry & Vicki Cole

If you wish to nominate someone please call the KOA Owners Association office at 800-678-9976 or email at info@koaowners.org and please include the specific reason why you are nominating them for this award.

KOA Work Kamper Award

KOA Owners Association — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 17:37:58 GMT

Criteria for KOA Work Kamper of the Year Award

We are pleased to announce the criteria for the KOA Work Kamper of the Year Award. This award will be presented at the KOA convention in Las Vegas in November, 2011.

Criteria
1. The Work Kamper nominee must have an active membership in the KOA Work Kamper Program. Their resume may be inactive only if currently working at a KOA Kampground. Also must allow for work kampers that are not full-timers, but work only in the summer months.
2. Demonstrate loyalty to the KOA Organization by choice of campgrounds to work at.
3. Demonstrate outstanding customer skills per the "Making It Great" Program. The Work Kamper nominee is an employee who goes above and beyond on the campground, is a team player and gets along well with peers. Demonstrates positive energy and attitude proving to be an asset to the campground atmosphere.

4. Implements the KOA Work Kamper Code of Conduct as developed at the Work Kamper University.

POINTS TO CONSIDER: Competence, friendliness and high customer satisfaction. Willingness to take on projects and implementing them to their solutions. Positive comments from customers about the extra effort and treatment they receive from the Work Kamper.

Work Kamper Award Questionnaire

1) How long had the Work Kamper worked for you and your campground?
2) What do you feel is their greatest customer skill?
3) At check-in, are they friendly and helpful to the camper/do they escort the camper to their site and ensure that everything is ok?
4) Are they alert to the needs of the campers and respond quickly?
5) When they are working with their peers, do they maintain a friendly and helpful attitude?
6) Do they offer assistance to a co-worker when they see the need?
7) Do they show good work ethic?
a) Check in on time
b) Complete the assigned task in a timely manner
c) Work well independently as well as in a group
d) Exhibits a cheerful attitude always
e) Responds appropriately to an emergency
8) How well do they implement the "KOA Work Kamper Code of Conduct?"
9) How well do they deal with difficult campers?
List an instance:
10) What instance really made this Work Kamper(s) stand out?
11) Why do you feel this Work Kamper deserves this award?
12) Have your campers complimented this Work Kamper to you personally or in writing?

Nominations should be sent to the KOA Owners Association Business Office, 3416 Primm Lane, Birmingham, AL 35216 or email to info@koaowners.org by October 7, 2011

AGS Press Release

KOA Owners Association — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 17:26:11 GMT

About AGS / TXAD

AGS, owned by Texas Advertising Inc (TXAD), offers high quality marketing services to the RV Park and Campground sector, specifically guest directories and website design to marketing consulting.

VCA News and Notes

Texas Advertising Inc. (TXAD) has recently purchased the guest guides and hosted websites operations from AGS, a subsidiary of Good Sam Enterprises LLC.

The switch occurred June 1 with no discontinuation of services, according to a news release.

“We’re excited by the opportunity to provide quality guest guides and website services to our new clients,” said Brian Schaeffer, president of Texas Advertising. Texas Advertising produces high-quality guest guides for RV parks and campgrounds around the country and

Canada

and website services for various types of small businesses.

According to Marcus Lemonis, CEO of AGS, “This is the best possible situation for our guest guide and hosted website customers. Texas Advertising is a recognized market leader in the guest guide and hosted website market and will service our customers well. We will continue to focus more completely on expanding our leadership position in the RV market.”

ParknPool Specials!!!

KOA Owners Association — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 14:17:09 GMT

We had such a great response on this deal that we're extending the SALE!

Just when you think it can't get any hotter, we've upped the temperature with our SIZZLIN' SUMMER SAVINGS!

During the month of August, enjoy over $100 worth of savings on these steel receptacles and benches!

Durable and long lasting, these steel benches and receptacles are the perfect accent piece for high traffic areas.

Constructed in the U.S.A. from solid steel, these maintenance free benches are virtually indestructible and will complement any area.

Available in 4', 5', and 6' lengths.

The powder coat finish on these steel trash cans offers exceptional resistance to corrosion, scratches, and chips.

With the choice of 4 lid options for the trash receptacles, you're sure to find the perfect fit for your area.

For more information about the savings available , CLICK HERE and I'll contact you right away, but hurry before these deals are gone for good!

Join us | Share this

Visit our Blog

Sarah Terry
Account Manager
540-463-1410
Sarah@ParknPool.com
www.ParknPool.com

KOA RV Donations for Care Camps

KOA Owners Association — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 13:50:51 GMT

PLEASE HELP SPREAD THE WORD REGARDING OUR HUGE FUNDRAISING EVENT FOR KOA CARE CAMPS!!!!!

Remember we received our first generous donation from Dr. Albert Ziemba. A new listing on ebay is shown as follows:

Bertram Donation on Ebay Motors.

Visit ebaymotors.com and search for ID Number 150639069246

The more people that learn about this program the better!!! Spread the word and help kids with cancer to attend camp!

Hot Air Balloon Ride

KOA Owners Association — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 18:46:48 GMT

Hot Air Balloon Flights Available at Williamsburg KOA

Ballooning Offers Unique Way to Tour Historic Colonial Area

WILLIAMSBURG, VA (August 2, 2011) – Campers at the Williamsburg, Virginia KOA Campground can tour the historic area from the air with a quiet, peaceful ride in a hot air balloon.

The Williamsburg KOA has teamed with Virginia Balloons to offer daily balloon rides to campers. The rides are available daily from April to December. The balloon will frequently make two flights a day, weather permitting.

The cost of the rides in the four-passenger to six-passenger balloon is $250 per person on weekdays, and $275 per person on weekends. There is also a $25 “pick up” fee for transportation to approved locations. Since routes for balloon adventure trips are determined by the wind and weather conditions, exact launch and landing locations will be decided the night before flights. A special children’s rate of $125 is also available. Children age 5-13 weighing 100 pounds or less can fly for a $1 per pound.

Private flights are available for $350 per person weekdays and $400 per person on weekends. The pickup fee and children’s rates remain the same.

The balloon’s pilot, Mark Nelson, has been flying balloons since 1977. He received his student pilot’s license from instructor Tony Fairbanks, a renowned early gas balloon pilot who flew the “Lucky Strike” balloon and also was the balloon pilot for the 1955 Disney film “Around the World in 80 Days.”

Nelson has extensive experiencing in piloting balloons in the Shenandoah Valley, Williamsburg and Chesapeake areas of Virginia.

Balloon ride tickets are available for purchase at the Williamsburg, Virginia KOA Campground store.

For more information, call 757-565-2734 or go to www.williamsburgkoa.com.

Kampgrounds of America, founded on the banks of the Yellowstone River in 1962, is now the world’s largest system of open-to-the-public family campgrounds. KOA has 475 locations in the United States and Canada. For more information on the KOA system, go to www.KOA.com.