ARVC Michigan Convention & Trade Show

Members of the Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds of Michigan recently received their invitations to the 2013 ARVC Michigan Convention & Trade Show, which will be March 25-27 at the Best Western Plus Hotel & Convention Center in Lansing.

According to Susan Novotny, the chairwoman of the Education & Membership Development Committee, this year's spring convention includes:

• professional development sessions for the "newbie" campground owner to the lifetime CPO; 
• a trade show showcasing vendors covering a wide variety of products and services; 
• guest speakers; 
• a silent and live auction; 
• door prizes and a 50-50 drawing.

Also, ARVC Michigan members will get an opportunity to meet the organization's new Executive Director, Lori Tews, who has graciously agreed to be auctioned-off to the highest bidder. She will work in the winning bidder's campground for one week this summer. (Editor's note: read a Q&A blog post with Lori here!)

In addition, the convention will also feature a NEW ServSafe certification course on Monday, March 25, starting at 8 a.m. The ServSafe Certification is an 8-hour course and costs an additional $130, course book is included. If you are interested in getting certified your registration must be received on or before Feb. 15.

"If your campground prepares food for guests, at least one member of your staff needs to be properly certified," Novotny said in the invitation.

A preliminary schedule has been posted, and the following topics will be addressed during the convention:

• ADA - What you need to know
• Real Estate Tax Appeal, Board of Review & MI Tax Tribunal
• Submit Your Best Idea and WIN $
• Hospitality Industry and Cabins
• First Aid, AED Use and CPR
• Estate Planning
• Don't Move Firewood
• Employee Issues
• Electric Issues

Rooms have been secured at the Best Western Plus Hotel at a rate of $97.50 plus tax and fees per night. For reservations, call the hotel directly at 517-694-8123 or by clicking on Best Western Plus Hotel to book your room online.

Any questions should be sent via email to Lori Tews at info@michcampgrounds.com.

Important Dates:

• Early-Bird Special Rate - postmarked on or before Jan. 31
• ServSafe Registration - postmarked on or before Feb. 15