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Exchange Your Lawn for a Life

09 Jan 2012        By editor

December was a sabbatical from Workamper News so that my husband, Grady, and I could give away and sell most of our treasures aka stuff.  I never considered myself  a pack-rat, but this venture made me realize how many years of accumulation we did have and how much easier it would have been if we had started sooner!

Yes, I know as a staff member of Workamper News, I should have known better.  It’s a case of “don’t do what we did, do what WKN says.”  Start sooner and gradually give away or sell your furniture/furnishings and treasures.  Don’t expect there to be too much your grown children will want and don’t make assumptions that your house will take a long time to sell.  To our amazement, our house in Tallahassee sold the first week it was put on the market (who knew?) which was a blessing yet contributed to our stress.  Three weeks was not nearly enough time, even though we had dispensed with a lot of clothes and non-essential items before  our trial run began nearly a year ago. I guess we didn’t realize the true depth of our closets, drawers and attic say nothing of the heart-strings still attached.  Why we had lived nearly a year without all those treasures: what was the problem now!!!

Everyone wants to know “how we came out.”  Yes, we sold our house for less than the purchase price but we choose to focus on the positive.  We lived in that house for seven years so we choose to look at it as if we had rented it for about four hundred dollars a month less than what the rental market would have demanded.  (That even includes the new appliances and fixtures we had purchased and taxes).  As for the future—no longer will we have the expense of utilities, taxes, insurance, maintenance, pest control, security system, and lawn care!

Speaking of lawn care and why the title of this article is “Exchange Your Lawn for a Life,” we had another experience many  RVers must face if you still own a residence or rental house in suburbia.  We have had a rental house in Round Rock (just north of Austin) Texas for about six years.  Some of the years we had family living in it and other times renters.  With the terrible drought this past year, the lawn and landscaping–which at one time had been quite nice– completely died.  Without going into the particulars, and despite the best of leases which include “landscape must be maintained in good condition, etc.” (say nothing about assuming family members will take care of property the way you would), there are those that are not going to lend a hand (or hose) to Mother Nature. Never did we consider that lawn care “back home” or “at a rental property” would turn out to be one of the biggest issues while we were Workamping!

So let this be a lesson to those of you who are hitting the road and have property that needs maintenance while you are away.  It can be an expensive mistake to assume someone is taking care of your property—or belongings—or whatever.  Don’t make assumptions!

When we went to Round Rock Texas on December 18th (after just three weeks of dispensing with our belongings in Tallahassee FL), we were so exhausted we weren’t sure what we were going to do about the house there. It had always been a great rental, but it was a strain as we kept Florida as our domicile and have two other rental properties in Florida.  The lawn fiasco made us decide to sell the Texas house and diminish our stress.  After putting several days of elbow grease and touch-ups, say nothing of a yard clean-up, we put the house on the market with a realtor.  I was due back at work on January 3rd.  Again, we made the assumption it would take several months to sell.  Wrong! We had three buyers within the first 24 hours and God willing, the property will close on January 13th.

Yes, it was an exhausting holiday season for us, but a surprising one.  Next week I will share more about our experiences, including tips on selling your house.

In the meantime, we are sleeping better at night and excited to have exchanged our lawn for a life!

Mary Lou Merritt

Discounts at Pilot/Flying J for Good Sam Members—

The Good Sam Club is offering members an exclusive money-saving benefit with the launch of the Pilot Flying J RV Plus Card, according to a press release.

Beginning in 2012, Good Sam Club members can apply for the discount card which will allow them to save on each gallon of gasoline and diesel fuel purchased; 10 cents per gallon on bulk propane purchased, and 50% on holding tank dump station charges at all applicable Pilot Flying J locations across the United States.

Not a Good Sam member?  PLEASE, become one from our website.

Feds to Aggressively Monitor RV Dealership Advertising in 2012

RVDA reported January 2, 2012, that “Feds to ‘aggressively monitor’ RV dealership advertising in 2012.” The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has stated it plans to more vigorously prosecute deceptive dealership advertising this year while it reviews what, if any, additional regulations are needed.  “The Truth in Lending Act (TILA) and its implementing regulation, called Regulation Z, require that certain information be disclosed to consumers so they can compare credit offerings and shop for the best terms,” said Brett Richardson, director of legal and regulatory affairs. “Previously, advertisers could distort the true cost of the credit by publicizing only the most attractive credit or lease terms in order to get customers into the dealership.”

For example, an RV advertisement might have read, “1968 fifth wheel — only $75 per month.” But the consumer couldn’t determine whether it was a good deal without knowing the down payment, number of payments, annual percentage rate, and whether the transaction was a credit sale or a lease. TILA requires that advertisements tell the whole story.

New GPS for RV Use

“Magellan introduces new GPS for RV Use” a Press Release in PC Magazine reported January 6, 2012. It is called the RoadMate RV9145 which retails for $329.99, offers a 7-inch screen for RVers and campers.  The RV9145 packs U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico maps. It also features Good Sam Trailer Life RV Parks & Campground Directory.

For the outdoor recreation enthusiasts, “Crittermap Software announced that their Android GPS App. BackCountry Navigator, has been used by over 300,000 outdoor enthusiasts.  The app runs on both Android phones and tablets, providing hikers, hunters, and other adventuresome users with the chance to preload topographical and aerial maps, and to use them in the field along with paths and waypoints. BackCountry uses the Android GPS, which is built into the device and uses satellites, so no signal from cell towers is needed for users to know their location. This makes the application especially popular with those who wander outside urban areas into forests, wilderness areas, and other places where coverage is spotty at best.  Users can then see their position on maps that they have previously downloaded, and record waypoints, notes, and records of their track.  Especially popular are the BLM boundary maps for 12 western states, which allow hunters, hikers, and rock collectors to visualize the boundaries between public and private land.

Gas Prices Head Higher

“Gas Prices Head Higher” according to the Associated Press.  Tom Kloza, publisher and chief oil analyst at Oil Price Information Services expects pump prices will average between $3.75 and $4.25 a gallon this year; perhaps $4.00 a gallon by spring.

Alameda California RV and Sports Show This Week

The 24th annual Manufacturers RV and Sports Show  at Alameda, CA County Fairgrounds opened January 6, 2012 and runs through January 16th.  “For the first time this year visitors will be able to test ride or see a demonstration of an electric motorcycle as well as see hundreds of RVs and accessories, new and used, and negotiate directly with dealers.”

RV Enthusiasts Numbers Revealed

RVDA reports  “Including those who rent RVs, there are an estimated 30 million RV enthusiasts in the United States Approximately 9 million households own RVs. Combined with the RV rental market, it is estimated that RVs are a $15.75 billion a year industry.”

Some RV Manufacturer Notable Numbers

The top RV Manufacturer Retail Market Shares for 2010 were: 

Class A: Winnebago, Tiffin, Fleetwood, Thor, Forest River

Class C: Thor, Winnebago, Coachmen, Forest River, Fleetwood

Fifth Wheels:  Thor, Forest River, Jayco, Palomino, Coachmen

Travel  Trailers:  Thor, Forest River, Jayco, Coachmen, KZ

[Note:  Forest River ceased operations January 2011]

Texas Rebound in 2012

Texas Campground operators, hurt by the state’s hot, dry summer, are anticipating a rebound this season because of “winter Texans,” those out-of-state residents who migrate to the warmer parts of the Lone Star State to avoid the coldest weeks back home.

“Many of our affiliates are reporting much higher bookings for the winter season than they experienced last year,” said Brian Schaeffer, executive director and CEO of the Texas Association of Campground Owners (TACO).

According to a report in the American-Statesmen, Austin, this summer’s drought hurt many RV parks and campgrounds, particularly those located on lakes or rivers.

Bryan Kastleman, managing partner at Hill Country RV Resort in New Braunfels, said his bookings are up because of more than just winter Texans. He said the surge in the San Antonio economy is creating a need for workers to find temporary places to stay.

Additionally, RV parks that have park models are attractive to temporary workers.

Ken Butschek, who owns La Hacienda RV Resort near Lake Travis in Austin, said his park models are attracting winter Texans who don’t want to drive their RVs over wintery roads.

What’s Up in the Next Few Weeks at Workamper News?

January 10, 2012      Writing Resumes That Rock!

Workamping expert Jaimie Hall Bruzenak will be hosting a webinar on how you can make your resume more effective. Don’t give an employer an excuse to set your resume aside! You’ll not only see examples of regular and Awesome Applicant resumes but learn WHY they work so you can make yours the best it can be.

6-7:30 p.m. CT

Webinar – participate from your computer!

Cost:  $9.95 with access to the recording in case you miss the live event

Here is some more information.  Then,  Click on RV Lifestyles- Jaimie Hall Bruzenak for details and to sign up.

January 11, 2012               GOLD member Roundtable

5 pm PT/  6 pm MT/ 7 pm CT/ 8 pm ET

Register ahead of time on the Club website to participate in this live event where you can find out what other like-minded RVers/Workampers are doing and contribute your own thoughts and ask questions.

January  17, 2012              Dreaminar:  Purchasing an RV

A webinar to assist the Dreamer (or any Workamper)  who wants to learn about purchasing an RV will take place on January 17th at:

1 pm PT/ 2 pm MT/ 3 pm CT/ 4 pm ET

Sam Lewis, an RV salesman at Camping World in Little Rock, Arkansas, will be online to share with you the questions you should ask before heading to the RV sales lot.  His experience will help Workampers choose the right RV.

Ready to register?

January 18, 2012               Jobinar:  DNC Parks & Resorts at Yellowstone  

Imagine living in Yellowstone National Park for a season—May/June through August/September with full hookup RV sites and employee meals available.

To register for this Jobinar, go HERE.

The webinar will be approximately an hour long, from 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. CST.  Be ready with your questions!

At the Workamper News Forums Site–

Join the discussions on these hot topics!

  • “Quartzsite 2012? Anyone going to be there?” Let’s plan for a meet-up at the Workampers Forum (Member-only).
  • If you are researching employers, start at the Workamper Experiences Forum (Member-only).
  • Post your images at the Workamper Images Forum and check out the ones already there!
  • Share your “Happy New Year!” wishes at the General Workamping Forum.
  • Any advice for keeping your “Fresh water holding tank?” from freezing? Join in at the Full-timing Forum.
  • Solos – Let us hear from you at the Solo Workamping Forum.
  • Add your modifications at the DIY, Mods & Upgrades Forum. You can upload photos too!
  • Get a “Free eBook, Dance of the Winnebagos?” and others. Find out how at the Workamper Interests and Hobbies Forum.

Log in (or register at) Workamper Forums

Jaimie Hall Bruzenak
www.rvlifestylexperts.com

At The Workamper News Store

TWO NEW SPECIALS released by the Editor at the  WKN Store for January–

1.  The Complete Book of Boondock Rving—a book for those who like to escape crowded campgrounds in North America, written by Bill and Jan Moeller. “Boondocking” aka “dry camping” is camping without hookups.  Whether you are planning to spend an occasional overnight in a parking lot or an extended stay in the wilderness, you will learn how to equip your rig, find great campsites, manage and conserve electricity and water while camping in complete RV comfort.

Go directly here to purchase or learn more about this book.

2.  Live Your Road Trip Dream – Travel for a year for the cost of staying home.  This is an updated version including revised budgeting and technology sections; helpful web sites; “roadschooling” your children, and working on the road.  Use the step-by-step guide on planning the trip you always wanted and even learn how to enjoy your traveling companion on a 24/7 basis! Get a glimpse as to what life might really be like and what discoveries you will make along the way.

Purchase for less this month!

Category: Jaimie - RV Lifestyle Expert, Other, RV Lifestyle, WKN Forums, WKN Info & Updates, WKN Store  Tags: , , , , , , , ,  Comments off

Workampers Q&A

21 Nov 2011        By editor

I have taken many of the questions of  Workampers or Dreamers from our Workamper News Facebook page to present to you with answers.  I hope this information will be helpful to you!

Q: Is there a way to access the old Hotlines. I can only look at today’s hotline.

A: You can view the last 7 days of Hotline ads when you login at www.workamper.com and go to the Hotline page. This is a benefit of a WorkamperPlus or above membership. There is no archive of Hotline ads beyond the last 7 days. You can create your own archive by making a folder within your personal email inbox and putting your daily Hotline email in there. Then use the search option within your email program to maneuver through your archive if you’re looking for something specific.

Q: We want to find a job for my husband as a Workamper but haven’t seen anything yet.  I am disabled and can’t work.  Any ideas?

A: There are many couples out there Workamping where only one of the couple work. Look for any positions that would hire a single. The majority of the ‘help wanted’ advertising can be found through the Hotline and in Workamper News magazine (which Plus members can get in the mail and/or view online).

Q: Can you tell me about how much on average a person makes a month Workamping? It would be both my husband and I Workamping. Just trying to figure this out to see how much we can spend on health insurance for us and then how much we have for other expenses.

A: Michelle, we recommend visiting the WKN Forums website It is totally free to register and use. This is a topic often discussed there. Also, if/when you decide to join Workamper News, you will have access to ‘help wanted’ listings submitted to us by employers. We use $ symbols at the end of the ad text to denote what type of compensation they offer. You can search through the Hotline ads or online issues of our magazine for $$ or $$$ if you are looking only for jobs that offer some wages/salary or all hours paid wages.

Q: Where can we buy a copy of a past magazine?

A: We sell back issues!  You can buy some of them online from our Workamper Store Tab “Back Issues” or call us at (501) 362-2637.

Q: I am having trouble logging in to the Forums.  Can you help?

A: I’m sorry you are having trouble with the login. Hundreds of folks use the Forums site successfully, but I understand the login can tricky. The login is case sensitive, so users will need to keep that in mind when typing in the login info. Also, if a user is on their home computer, there is a box that can be checked to ‘automatically log me in each visit’ – then you won’t have to login each time you come to the site.

Q: How can I make Workamper News a friend on Facebook?

A: Technically, you can’t make a ‘page’ a ‘friend’. You can “Like” a page and then the new posts from that page will appear in your News Feed. So click on the Like button up near the top to the right of Workamper News, Inc. Thanks for viewing our Facebook page!

Q: I have not received my magazine in two months.  Why?

A:  Sorry to hear that. It could be for a number of reasons – often it is because we do not have an updated mailing address, a membership has expired, or a membership renewal was submitted with a Green (no mail) instead of regular Plus, or the postal person was not able to deliver the magazine but did not return it to us, or if a magazine was delivered to a location where it is then sorted and people pick up their mail, someone else may have gone home with it.  To update your mail address (or email address), go to our website, then click on the Index Tab “Log Out & Settings.”

Get Your Questions Answered

If you would like to know what it’s like to be a Workamper, have specific questions about your rig or the lifestyle – the folks on this site can give you great perspective. Register and create a username today!  The Workamper Forums are free for you to post your questions or read answers about many topics of interest.

Jaimie Hall Bruzenak monitors our Forums and suggests you take a look at the following topics and provide input:

  • Where are your “Winter Jobs?” Add yours at the Workampers Forum (Member-only).
  • If you are researching employers, start at the Workamper Experiences Forum (Member-only).
  • Post your images at the Workamper Images Forum and check out the ones already there!
  • What is the “The ultimate accessory for Workamper’s or Fulltimers”? Find out at the General Workamping Forum.
  • Any advice for “traveling with cats”? Join in at the Full-timing Forum.
  • Solos- check in at the Solo Workamping Forum.
  • Check out the latest projects at the DIY, Mods & Upgrades Forum. You can upload photos too!
  • Anyone into making “Homebrewed Beer, Hard Cider or Wine Brew!”? Let’s hear from you at the Workamper Interests and Hobbies Forum.

Reminder – Deadline Fast Approaching!

Have you submitted your FREE Situations Wanted Ad for the next issue?  Do it NOW because the deadline is fast approaching for the January/February 2012 issue.  At holiday time, we are all busy, so please do it now before the week ends.  All Workamper News members get up to a maximum of 30 words at no charge.  You can do it easily online, by going to:

http://www.workamper.com -> Workampers -> Put Yourself Out There -> Situation Wanted Ad.  Then, just place your ad!

Something Fun!

We were delighted to get our first Sewiepig story across our desk.  Thank you Dorri Eilbeck for writing an entertaining story, sharing your travel adventures with your adopted Sewiepig.  We invite all you other Workampers to write us a story–or even a paragraph or two (yes, we know Dorri set the bar kind of high, but she is a writer for her rescue dog (PinMin) newsletter.)  Let’s have fun.  Let that inner-child out!!  Smile! If you haven’t adopted a Sewiepig for yourself or as a gift for another RVer, you can do so HERE.

Recommendations from the Workamper News Store

“Casino Camping” is a book available at the Workamper News Store.   This book will tell you about the hundreds of casinos throughout America that are RV friendly. Some have free overnight parking, while others have an RV park. And think about the buffets! They offer upscale facilities at reasonable rates.  Includes contact info, descriptions, discounts, etc.  Written by Jane Kenny, it is in its’ Fifth Edition.

Are you on the road during the holidays and want to shop or park at a Wal-Mart?  We have just the book for you to find the closest one.  The Wal-Mart Atlas is in it’s Second Edition.  It is a comprehensive guide to more than 4,100 Wal-Mart stores, Supercenters and Sam’s Club stores in the United States. State maps show you where the stores are located and whether gas or diesel fuel is available. Information on each store provided. Written by Roundabout Publications.  $24.95 with FREE SHIPPING!

C A L E N D A R

Workamper Campfire – Nov 2011 

Nov 22, 2011 at  1 p.m. PT/2 p.m. MT/3 p.m. CT/4 p.m. ET

Join other Workampers and Workamper Dreamers who have questions about Workamping and would like to have them discussed around the campfire.  You can submit your question and we will do our best to provide input on your question during the event.

Please submit your question when you register if you can.  We will also take live questions during the Campfire event.

Thanksgiving Holidays – OFFICE CLOSED –

November 24-25 – Have a wonderful holiday with family, friends or volunteering your time and talents!

Tuesday, November 29th -

NOT THE SAME “Why Every Workamper Should Operate Their Own Business”

I know many of you have read our “Small Business” statements and blown them off as hype!

I also know that many of you have not even asked yourself if you SHOULD consider operating a small business—for one reason—because you couldn’t imagine a business you could operate from your RV.

I am asking you, to P L E A S E  –  ASK YOURSELF  - if you could possibly be missing out on something that really could sweeten your RV-life experience and wallets.

Please step out on that limb and at least find out why you should own and operate a small business as a Workamper – especially now that we have a NEW PROGRAM that can become your small business or additional stream of income for your existing business.

On Tuesday, November 29th –Workamper News President, Steve Anderson, will present the NEW  informational launch of what he is calling:

“Workamper Concierge”

You have a choice of two different webinar times with hopefully one of them meeting your schedule:

Tuesday, November 29th, 2011 at 11 a.m. Central Time.  You can easily register at:

https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/628882282

Tuesday, November 29th, 2011 at 7 p.m. Central Time. You can easily register at:

https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/854906626

Ask the Experts –  Gold Members Only

Mail Forwarding Service Expert Larry Sroufe of “Your Best Address” will be our guest expert! This online webinar will provide you with the opportunity to ask any and all questions you may have like, “How do I keep up with my mail?” and ”How do I register my vehicles, if I no longer have a home residence?”

Nov. 30, 2011 at  1 p.m. PT/  2 p.m. MT/  3 p.m. CT/  4 p.m. ET

Register today on the Ask the Experts page from the Club website!


Category: Jaimie - RV Lifestyle Expert, Other, RV Lifestyle, WKN Forums, WKN Info & Updates, WKN Store  Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,  Comments off

RV Personality Types–Are You a Fit?

31 Oct 2011        By editor

RV Personality Types–Are You a Fit?

You Appreciate Serendipity:  discovering places and things you weren’t necessarily seeking;

Stress Busters:  You seek an oasis from stress;

Pet-Lovers: You enjoy the company of your pets and wouldn’t think of traveling without them.  (Or, you avoid rebellion and bad behavior by them by taking them with you wherever you roam);

You Are the Self-Serve Type:  You prefer your RV kitchen/grill to deciding where to eat–most of the time;

Special Event Attendees:  Whether a reunion or an art festival, you are at home. You decide to go at the spur of the moment—or not;

Eco-tourists: You like to get back to nature, out of the rat race, watching sunrises and sunsets and the lay of the land; you waste not, want not; reuse and repurpose.

Sports Lover:  You are the ultimate sportsmen and women, whether participating or tailgating;

Ultimate Shoppers—You might drive hundreds of miles to a swap-meet, visit antique shops, estate sales, but you are particular what you purchase;

Family Makers—you like meeting new people and many you consider “family by choice.”

Speaking of Family

Gold Members of Workamper News have more opportunities to get to know each other and staff, through the monthly Gold Roundtables, Ask the Expert events exclusive to Gold members, social events sponsored by Workamper News, Club member community forums and Gold member Map and Locator Tools.  Welcome to all new Gold members! Please take advantage of these opportunities and get to know each other.  Don’t be shy!

To those of you who haven’t taken advantage of Gold membership for Life, this opportunity ends today!  (The last Gold Lifetime membership opportunity was March 2011).  You still have until midnight tonight (October 31st) to sign up to be a gold member.

As time goes on, this membership will become more and more valuable, because it is the top tier of membership. All the tools, resources, opportunities for networking, community will be yours for as long as you would like to remain a member of Workamper News…and your price will never increase.

Even in bad economic times, have you noticed prices still keep rising in so many areas? You will pat yourself on the back when you see membership dues climb, but your Workamper membership dues will not.  I am sure you have heard the U.S. Postal service is saying they can’t stay operational with postage fees as they currently are. You know what comes next!

More than that, you will be enabled to be the best Workamper you can be with the help of monthly Ask the Experts, Roundtables, Club Forums, Club newsletter and staff support.  Steve Anderson’s Marketing 101, an invaluable resource, is yours for free, so that Employers will roll out the red carpet for you.

In Workamper Marketing 101, Steve provides an in-depth course on–

  • The number 1 thing you need to focus on when developing your Personal Marketing Strategy
  • How to craft your Personal Marketing Strategy so it sells
  • My secrets to developing a Personal Marketing Strategy that will “let your light shine brighter”
  • How to implement your Personal Marketing Strategy after you have built it
  • and the most critical mind-set shift you need to make before attempting to develop your Personal Marketing Strategy.

As a Gold member, if you utilize the free 75 month Situation Wanted ad online, Advanced Toolkit for your Awesome Applicant Resumes which you have perfected, you are sure to get the positions you want.

Here’s a scary thought: if you still haven’t become a Lifetime Member,  DO IT NOW because this opportunity DISAPPEARS  at MIDNIGHT TONIGHT (Mon, Oct 31st).

Join The Discussions On These Hot Topics!

at the Workamper News Forums!

  • More feedback at “GOOD SAM Emergency road service? POS/NEG.” Join in at the Workampers Forum (Member-only).
  • If you are researching employers, start at the Workamper Experiences Forum (Member-only).
  • Post your images at the Workamper Images Forum and check out the ones already there!
  • Is it free to attend a Webinar? Find out at “Go to Meeting, Campfires and Webinars?” at the General Workamping Forum.
  • “What is one thing you’d change about your RV?” Weigh in at the Full-timing Forum.
  • “What length rig do you have?” Share your length at the Solo Workamping Forum.
  • Check out the latest projects at the DIY, Mods & Upgrades Forum. You can upload photos too!
  • “Hobbies: space and weight!” What about yours? Add yours at the Workamper Interests and Hobbies Forum.

Log in (or register at) Workamper Forums

RV Industry News of Interest–

Journal by President of CA Assn of RV Parks (CalARVC)

RV Business Press Release: October 27, 2011

Editor’s Note: The following column was written by Dan Wright, president of the California Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds (CalARVC), and appears in the current issue of CalARVC News.

“I’ve been camping my whole life, but as a campground operator and your president, I look at the subject with a whole new perspective. 

Recently, my beautiful bride and I took a two-week road trip and tried to take a broad view of our industry.

Our trip involved 3,000 miles of highway travel through California, Nevada, Idaho, Oregon and Washington state.

Most of our trip we towed a fifth-wheel RV, but we also did some tent camping, and stayed in rental accommodations. We even spent one night at a “glamour camping “ resort, where we paid $155 per night to sleep in a luxury tent! It had a wood floor, queen size bed, electricity, and beautiful rustic furniture. The great experience we had was well worth the money.

Here’s our quick-and-dirty report on our impressions of camping today:

Occupancy: While anything but scientific, our seat-of-the-pants survey showed robust occupancy across the board. Even before and after the 4th of July weekend, parks were teeming with campers both tenting and RVing. This bodes well for our industry in a time of high unemployment.

Government Operated Parks: County, state and federally owned parks are competing harder for the business. Most now have Camp Hosts on site, and are offering more amenities such as better-attended restrooms, firewood for sale and expanded store offerings. It may seem that government-operated parks have an unfair advantage, but many of them don’t have hookups or other amenities such as Wi-Fi, pools, dog parks or hot spas.

Rental Accommodations: Private parks are offering more choices in accommodations such as travel trailers, park models, yurts, and luxury tents and cabins. This is a trend that will continue, as young families want to get outdoors, and seasonal RVers want their friends and family to join them.

Amenities: Campgrounds are offering Wi-Fi, spa services, entertainment, fitness classes, guided hikes, and more. Expanded store and restaurant offerings are becoming a significant source of revenue. One park we visited has live music every Saturday night all summer. The music was free, but most campers who attended happily paid $18 per person for a fire-grilled dinner!

Association Membership: Wherever we went, we checked to see if a park was a member of their state association. We consistently saw that member parks were cleaner, better managed and had well-trained staff and good customer service.

The Takeaway: Folks of all ages, from nearby or overseas, and all income levels want to have a great outdoor experience, and they are willing to pay for it. Customer service is your No. 1 amenity.

Wherever we went, a smile and a helpful attitude from park staff were what we remembered most, and what would bring us back. “

[I'm sure he was talking about our Workampers!!]

Early November Calendar

November 9, 2011

10 a.m. PT/11 a.m. MT/12 p.m. CT/1 p.m. ET

Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts at Yellowstone. Live the Adventure! Join this enthusiastic staff and make life-long friends while enjoying first-hand the amazing wonders of living in Yellowstone National Park from May/June through August/September. Full hookup RV sites and employee meals available. Visit their Featured Employer Page for more details!

Register Now to participate in this live Jobinar and go ahead and post any questions you have. You can ask questions during the Jobinar as well.

November 10, 2011

Gold Member Roundtable:  This is a private session for Gold members to learn how other Gold members are improving their Workamping lifestyle, get to know each other, and ask questions.

5 p.m. PT/6 p.m. MT/7 p.m. CT/8 p.m. ET

Visit the Gold RoundTable page on the Club Website to get registered today!

For all the details on registering for a webinar, preparing for a webinar, attending a webinar, watching a recorded webinar and troubleshooting, click here


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Ta Dah! Rendezvous A Success!

24 Oct 2011        By editor

A Step in the Right Direction

The second Rendezvous of 2011 in Heber Springs, Arkansas was quite a success.  We are still marveling what a great group of members we have.  The energy and enthusiasm of both members and presenters will be something to remember for months ahead.  We all had so much fun and can’t wait to post some of the videos and photos in the near future.  Thank you all for your kind comments and suggestions for the next one.

2012 Rendezvous Dates Announced

We hope you will mark your calendars now and plan to attend either of the Workamper Rendezvous events scheduled at the same venue in Heber Springs, Arkansas.  The dates are:

April 17-19, 2012 and October 23-25, 2012

Why Heber Springs Arkansas?   This is the home of Workamper News, Inc. and everyone that has been to the Heber Springs Community Center will tell you what a wonderful venue it is.  Attendees were amazed at how beautiful, functional, and friendly the staff are at the Center.  Not only that, the Mayor dropped by again to invite everyone to enjoy the facilities at no cost while here.  Gym, exercise machines, classes, aquatic center with arthritis pool and more.  The U.S. Army Corps of Engineer campgrounds are top-rated, and Greers Ferry Lake is renowned as one of the top cleanest lakes in the country.   For us to hold the Rendezvous at another location away from our home base would be cost-prohibitive.  Not only does the staff devote many hours to setting up and breaking down, we have a team of wonderful volunteers to help.  Besides that, there are a lot of things for attendees to do if they plan to come and spend some time in our region.

Most people did camp at one of the USACE campgrounds which were just 5-10 minutes away from the venue.  There were others that flew or drove their cars here and stayed in local motels. Everyone seemed very pleased with accommodations.

We had beautiful weather most days, although temperatures dropped and the wind picked up with some rain the very night we planned to utilize the campground shelter and we had to move it indoors.  We can only hope for the future!  What a difference one day can make from another in fall or spring weather!

The October event was the same as the April Rendezvous in 2011, with the exception that Mark Kohler attended in person.  Oh, what a hoot he is, despite talking about taxes and making money!  Nothing boring about Mark; he’s a true comedian!  Very quick-witted besides being a genius when it comes to saving on taxes.

Jaimie Hall Bruzenak was a stand-out in her red cowboy hat and her seminar was standing-room only.  Everyone loved hearing Arline Chandler share about all the people she’s met and wonderful places she and her husband have been.  The slideshow is a travelogue of most people’s Bucket List.  George Montgomery gave very useful information to important tax planning record-keeping, corporate entity selection and the importance of a domicile. Terry and Evada Cooper—the nicest people you’ll ever meet—were very popular with their RV maintenance and RV kitchen tips and tricks.

Everyone said they wished they could either bottle Jody Anderson Duquette’s energy and cuteness and the gals loved Luke.  Attendees that had been Workampers for years soon realized just how much they had under-utilized the Workamper News website, resources and tools until Jody and Luke gave them a guided tour.

It was great for attendees to learn more about the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ history and job or volunteer opportunities from Carolyn Bauer, Manager at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Volunteer Clearinghouse.  They have helped Workampers find positions for over 20 years. One couple reported how thrilled they were to be hired on at beautiful Estes Park in Colorado.

Phillip Schafer, Workamper Liason at Amazon, Inc. spoke about the job opportunities working at several of Amazon’s fulfillment centers.  They hire more than a thousand Workampers for the holiday season! Several workampers were heading straight there to be Santa’s Elves right after the Rendezvous ended.

Kathy Jo Anderson did a wonderful job organizing the event’s activities, making sure everything and every staff member and volunteers were in place.  She is the queen of Behind The Scenes.  Her small stature didn’t hinder her as the Store manager, and all went very well there.  There were a few books we ran out of, but the orders will be filled promptly in the coming week.  Many Sewiepigs went home with attendees, but there are many more still looking for homes to do the jobs they were designed for.

Our Commander in Chief and Director of Possibilities, Steve Anderson, was his jovial self and he served as the Master of Ceremonies as well as an awesome Presenter.  Those that had a chance to meet him now realize his enthusiasm and appreciate his vision for Workampers.

Bill Albright who so patiently answers all your questions when you call the office and part-time Vangie Stone who is an office-assistant dynamo were introduced the first day…then returned to the office to man the phones and get store orders out.

Tempa Davis and husband Fred—they are just the best friends Workamper News has!  Each of them volunteered in so many capacities to make the Rendezvous a success, and we truly couldn’t do without them.   During the Rendezvous, Tempa mostly helped out at  the on-site Store, taking and processing orders.   Fred’s primary job during the event was as videographer/interviewer  (my assistant who often worked alone when I was away acting as Girl-Friday and roving reporter).

George Bruzenak (Jaimie’s husband) was our videographer/cameraman.  You will appreciate his hard work when you see all the photos and videos we will be posting on our website.

Other volunteers included Lee Smith, husband of Arline Chandler Smith, who carried out various duties throughout the event and my husband, Grady Smith, who was Guy-Friday. He greeted folks and minded the Sewiepig pen.  He made so many great friends and shared lots of laughs.

Last but not least, a big Thank You goes out to Greg and Debbie Robus, the founders of Workamper News who always jump in to help behind the scenes, in front of the scenes and every which way but loose!

Everyone jumped in with set-up and break-down and everything went very smoothly.   (If there was anything, I didn’t get a hint of it!)

As you can see, it takes just about a village to put on the Rendezvous and we appreciate each and every one of our staff, our volunteers and all the member and dreamer friends we met!

Get a Bulls-Eye With Lifetime Membership

We are getting down to the wire for the LIFETIME GOLD MEMBERSHIP opportunity!   This rare offer ends in ONE WEEK.  Monday, October 31st is the LAST DAY you can sign up as a Lifetime Gold Member and never have to pay dues again.  More importantly, you will be a GOLD member with all the best resources and tools available for your use—forever.

The best way to determine if this opportunity is for you is to look at all it has to offer.  First, let’s look at the price.  If you are a current member, you are paying ANNUALLY $33.00 for a Basic membership; $48.00 for a WorkamperPlus membership; $90 for a Silver membership; or $198.00 for a Gold membership.

The average number of years Workampers remain members is about SEVEN years. Using the WorkamperPlus member as an example, at $48.00 annually, you will save $37.00 in membership dues at today’s rates over a period of four years.  But let’s face it:  the chances that we won’t have to raise the annual rates during the seven year period at least once or twice is slim…therefore, you are saving even more.  Postage keeps going up, up, up, as do printing costs and everything else.

If you became a GOLD member when Club Workamper was first launched, you paid $199.00 to become a member for 12 months.  If you wish to become a LIFETIME member now, you would get credit for what you already spent ($198) towards the Lifetime price.  You would pay $101 for a Lifetime Gold membership.

However, PRICE is far from the best reason to become a LIFETIME GOLD MEMBER!!!!  The tools and resources the GOLD members are afforded are the REAL reasons you should take advantage of this opportunity.

TAKE A PEEK at all the ADVANTAGES Gold Level Members have included FOR FREE at their membership level.  Then, sign up THIS WEEK!!!!

National Assn. of RV Parks & Campgrounds

Did you miss the Webinar on October 13, 2011 that the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds (ARVC) presented?  They are offering an educational program on communication, health & safety, technology, guest services, and general industry knowledge, to help open doors for you.  To learn more about their program, you can view the recorded webinar.

Workamper Calendar:

Workamper Campfire – October 25, 2011 - 3:00 p.m. CT

1 p.m. PT/2 p.m. MT/3 p.m. CT/4 p.m. ET

Join other Workampers and Workamper Dreamers who have questions about Workamping and would like to have them discussed around the campfire.  You can submit your question and we will do our best to provide input on your question during the event.  Please submit your question when you register if you can.  We will also take live questions during the Campfire event.

DNC Parks at Yellowstone – Jobinar–October 26, 2011 – 12:00 p.m. CT 

10 a.m. PT/11 a.m. MT/12 p.m. CT/1 p.m. ET

Make life-long friends while enjoying first-hand the amazing wonders of living in Yellowstone National Park.  Positions go from May/June through August/September. Full hookup RV sites and employee meals available.   Find out all about it by participating in this live webinar where you can ask all your questions!  You can also learn details by visiting their Featured Employer Page at Workamper.com.

To register for the jobinar, click HERE.

Join The Discussions On These Hot Topics!

At the Workamper News Forums Site–

  • Where are you headed for your “Winter Jobs?” Add yours at the Workampers Forum (Member-only);
  • If you are researching employers, start at the Workamper Experiences Forum (Member-only);
  • Post your images at the Workamper Images Forum and check out the ones already there!
  • Tell us about your experience at “Another Season Comes to a Close” at the General Workamping Forum;
  • Will you be able to be “Home for the holidays”? How do you feel about it? Share yours at the Full-timing Forum;
  • Solos- let’s hear from you at the Solo Workamping Forum;
  • Check out the latest projects at the DIY, Mods & Upgrades Forum.  You can upload photos too!
  • “Ants, ants, ants everywhere!!! Need your help!” Join in at the Workamper Interests and Hobbies Forum.

Log in (or register at) Workamper Forums

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