FRVTA CONVENTION SHOWS ATTENDEES HOW TO...
Brimming with new selling information, market data and innovative
merchandising ideas, close to 300 FRVTA members learned about “Taking
Care of Business...The RV Way” at the 33rd Annual FRVTA State
Convention.
Held at the beautiful Sandpearl Resort on Clearwater Beach this past
September 5 through 8, attendees participated in several days worth of
intensive schooling combined with loads of fun.
“Certainly the RV Industry in general and specifically here in Florida
has seen great growth over this past season,” said FRVTA Executive
Director Lance Wilson. “So our members continue to be successful in
their businesses, we strive to make sure attendees learn from the best
in the RV Industry.”
Featuring a '70s theme, this year's annual confab provided attendees
with an in-depth look at national RV trends via a panel stocked with
representatives from all aspects of the RV Industry. Each reviewed the
successes and strains they experienced as well as what they see their
particular industry segment achieving in the coming year.
Besides a national RV Industry outlook, members heard from an informative
panel of Florida legislators who provided an indepth update on Florida's
government and how the dictates from Tallahassee affect RV-related businesses
in the Sunshine State.
Opening Thursday evening with the “We Are Family” Welcome Reception,
members enjoyed a selection of delicious sliders, hors d'oeuvres and cocktails.
It was a wonderful way to greet old friends and meet new ones.
Afterwards, attendees made their way to the “I Will Survive” Hospitality
Room that was located along the beach, making for an awesome nighttime
view of the sparkling Gulf of Mexico.
FRIDAY MORNING SESSIONS
Executive Director Wilson officially opened the 33rd Annual FRVTA
Convention beginning with the sessions first “Bee On Time.” Congratulations to Alan Shapiro
of Alliance Coach and Paul Graef of Camping World Fort Myers, both of whom won $50 and
to John Rockne of M&M RV Rentals who won $100. What a great way to start the weekend!
Lance also pulled the winning ticket for a “Rollex” watch donated by Region 5 Director
Lyn “The Music Man” Hart. Congratulations to winner Tammy Finci on her new timepiece!
All monies raised for this event went to support the FRVTA PAC Fund, so thank you!
Lance opened the meeting with a meaningful “Thank You” to all sponsors who made the
convention possible. “Without their support we wouldn't be in such a great resort as the
Sandpearl,” he said.
He also recognized first-time attendees, thanking them for their participation. Lance
reminded members to take part in the Silent Auction fundraising effort that benefits the
FRVTA PAC Fund.
FRVTA President Sam Abdo then took the podium. Welcoming the membership to the
convention, he called for a moment of silence as the Clearwater High School Marine Corp
Color Guard presented our nation's flag. This was followed by a stirring rendition of the
national anthem by Pam Giordano of Circle G Family Benefits. Sam then led all in reciting
the Pledge of Allegiance. This moving start to the convention was particularly poignant as
continued on page 3
Fall is finally here and with it a very busy
RV schedule. Both Region 5 and Region 6 will
be holding new shows this fall. The St. Johns
Fall RV Show takes place October 10-13 at the
St. Johns Fairgrounds in Elkton and the
Panhandle RV Show runs October 17-20 at
the Emerald Coast Convention Center in Ft.
Walton Beach.
It is really encouraging to see the regions
taking on new shows in new venues. I think it says a lot about how the
Florida RV Industry is slowly coming back and that dealers are excited
about supporting new shows.
Here are some of my thoughts coming out of our recent State Convention.
First of all, if you missed it, you missed one of the best conventions held at
one of the best resorts we've ever used! The food, fun and events were
fantastic.
I always find one of the best things about our convention is just getting
to know the people in the organization who you only get to see once a year.
You really get the sense that you are not alone in your struggles. Usually
there is someone fighting the same battles
you are and they can offer many helpful
suggestions.
Secondly, I am constantly amazed at the
things Lance and his staff come up with,
from the Game Show Luncheon to the
Photo Booth to the Pirate Ship Trip, they
always make the convention a fun and
worry-free event and I thank them for that.
I would also like to thank the people who
participated in the 50/50 drawing and
bought items in the Silent Auction. This
supports the FRVTA PAC Fund and I believe
we set a new convention record of money
collected.
Finally, I would like to thank the sponsors for their continued support
of our organization. Without their financial commitment to the convention
we would not be able to go to the places we do and have the activities we
enjoy.
Fall is a busy time in the RV Industry. With the RVDA convention in Las
Vegas, the RV Open House in Elkhart and the Louisville Show, I'm sure
your calendars are full. Try to stay active in your regions with everything
else that is going on. Your support and participation is what keeps our
Association strong!
Till next time,
SAM ABDO
FRVTA State President
CONVENTION...
we remembered the anniversary of the 9-11 terrorism attacks.
Lance then retook the podium and introduced his “serious”
staff members. Dancing and shaking all that they had, the superb
FRVTA staff members pranced down the center aisle to the '70s
hit “YMCA” by The Village People. With “Chief” Lance at the
podium, staff were able (mostly) to spell out “Y-M-C-A” as the
audience laughed on. Controller Mike Ryan couldn't wait to do
more--NOT!
Going back to a serious moment, Lance praised staff members
for their hard work not only during the convention, but also
throughout the year at the many shows and events sponsored by
FRVTA. “It's their hard work and
dedication that makes the FRVTA
the envy of other associations,” he
declared.
Lance then called FRVTA
President Abdo, Vice President Rob
Rothenhausler and Treasurer Ryan
Hollan to the front to assist in
presenting beautiful “thank you”
plaques to convention sponsors in
recognition of their support.
Next, moving to the first of
many educational sessions over
the weekend, Lance introduced
this year's RV Industry Panel. Each
of the six speakers represented a different aspect
of the RV Industry and shared their insight into
what they see happening over the coming year.
Ernie Shumacher, RV Executive for Bank of
America's Dealer Financial Services, began his
remarks by congratulating attendees for their
success since the Great Recession. He did stress
that he expects interest rates to rise going
forward, but that there is still lots of retail money
available and at great rates. Ernie believes the
RV Industry in general is seeing such great
wholesale and retail numbers since so many
RVers held onto their units during the recent economic troubles
that they now are feeling more comfortable buying again as the
economy improves. He emphasized that dealers should continue
to get money down on unit sales. Additionally, Ernie said that
dealers are doing a great job moving product and keeping their
aging levels low.
Jeffrey Hirsh, CEO of Campers Inn and current chairman of
the Recreational Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA), remarked
that he believes dealer anxiety is up due to the changing business
model dealers face. By this he means dealers have changed from
“mom and pop” businesses into national and regional multidealerships with online sales activity. Saying dealers can't be all
things to everyone, he stressed that there is a vast array of
opportunity available and dealers should choose their niche and
master it. From his RVDA perspective, Jeff praised the FRVTA for
their hard work on a variety of industry initiatives.
Tim Hyland, Recreation/Specialty Vehicles Group President for
GE Capital-Commercial Distribution Finance, said all indications
point toward continued RV Industry growth. He reiterated Ernie
by saying he believes dealer unit aging remains at good levels, but
stressed there may be additional opportunities in merchandising.
continued from page 1
Tim also said dealers should remember the recent past troubles
from the Great Recession and work to keep their dealerships
healthy. He also warned about rising healthcare costs and
regulations in general. Tim revealed that GE's strategy is to be
proactive in dealing with the growing regulation of business,
saying they anticipate the process for strategic advantage.
Next up was Jim Musbach, Chief Executive Officer for Coast
Distribution. He said the Great Recession prompted parts and
accessories to become a larger part of a dealership's business as
overall unit sales fell. That's why he and his business are here to
serve the on-time parts delivery needs of RV Dealerships.
Manufacturer Derald Bontrager, President and
CEO of Jayco, Inc., said RV Manufacturers are quickly
approaching the record shipment levels reached
back in 2006. In fact, he believes the RVIA shipment
numbers may be on the conservative side. However,
there are now far fewer manufacturers than before,
meaning larger shipment levels and more business
for remaining manufacturers. Derald said RV
products are now more affordable than ever with
new features and floor plans, all while the average
RV buyer age has been trending down thanks to the
national Go RVing marketing campaign. He did
stress industry unity
between dealers and
manufacturers, and that the
challenge is to obtain return
customers via superior
service, training and highquality products.
Final panelist Pat O'Neill,
owner of Camp Gulf in
Destin and current
Chairman of the
Florida/Alabama
Association of RV Parks and
Campgrounds (FLARVC),
asked the audience what
they thought “Taking Care of Business...the RV Way” means to
them. He believes it means “adventure” and not only the
risk/reward of sales. He said dealers should sell the adventure
aspect of RVing--the trip, friends, views, overnights--the total RV
experience. Following an anecdote about his travels through an
old Virginia-West Virginia coal mine, Pat stressed that attendees
should be cautious going forward, watch their numbers, and
make sure they have a plan and follow it.
After this enlightening session and a short break, RVDA
President Phil Ingrassia returned to the FRVTA convention to
review the national Go RVing marketing campaign as well as the
many programs RVDA provides to dealer members. Phil reported
that dealer business for towable sales is better than before with
motorhomes increasing as well and that product inventories
appear about right. Reviewing RVDA principles that strive to treat
all dealers the same no matter their size, he said RVDA is working
hard to keep the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
from disrupting the current dealer vehicle lending system. Saying
this system saves consumers time and money while encouraging
RV sales and creating jobs, Phil said he needs dealers' help in
reaching out to their legislators with this message.
CONVENTION...
Phil reviewed the Dealer Satisfaction Index (DSI) that was
established years ago to foster better relationships between dealers
and manufacturers. With the same idea in mind, RVDA also offers
a Model Dealer Agreement that reviews a variety of manufacturerdealer responsibilities and enables dealers to compare against
their own manufacturer agreement.
He also plugged the upcoming RVDA convention that will
feature a “Partners in Progress” session at which manufacturers
will hear about dealer problems as well as successes in RV
products.
The RV Learning Center, the educational arm of RVDA, provides
dealer members with a variety of free seminars, webinars,
scholarship programs and other
features to assist dealers in their
businesses. Part of this program,
Phil said, is the partnership with
FRVTA's Distance Learning
Program, which is free to FRVTA
members as part of their annual
membership fee. Currently, Phil
said RVDA is developing a
“Young RV Executive” program
designed to train future dealers.
Phil stressed the benefits of
the Go RVing dealer program
that provides sales leads and
advertising support all launched
to make RV sales. Presently, Phil
said there are 355 dealer participants nationally,
18 in Florida. He praised this particular program
as one of the best cooperative ventures and
campaigns developed.
At this point, James Ashurst, Recreation
Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) Marketing
Director since 2010, came to the podium to
review the Go RVing program goals. Basically, the
idea is to push consumers through a “purchase
funnel” to assist them in making a buying decision. James wants
to generate consumer leads for dealers to follow-up with and he's
seeking to do this by stretching budgeted dollars via copromotions through four sectors: 1) national and local public
relations activities 2) advertising partnerships 3) digital outreach,
and 4) non-RV specific consumer events. Besides these objectives,
James has had the Go RVing web page upgraded and redesigned
for ease of use. This has resulted in increased site visits as well as
more pages viewed. Finally, James previewed a new Go RVing TV
commercial that promotes RV tailgating during the coming
football season.
The final morning session was the annual Legislative
Roundtable discussion moderated by FRVTA General Counsel
Marc Dunbar. Marc introduced this year's panel members: Sen.
Jack Latvala, from District 16 in Pinellas County and a return
speaker from last year; Sen. Greg Evers of District 2 in the
Panhandle; and Rep. Jake Raburn of Dist. 57 in Hillsborough
County. Stressing that the 2014 elections cycle would be critical
since Florida's entire executive leadership is up for reelection,
Marc asked participants on their views for the coming year.
Sen. Latvala, appearing on crutches due to a recent slipping
accident, doesn't expect much change in the overall makeup of
continued from page 3
Florida's Legislature with Republicans remaining in charge and
most if not all of the cabinet reelected. He believes the key race
will be for the governorship with former Gov. Charlie Crist
running as a Democrat against incumbent Republican Gov. Rick
Scott. He stressed support for Gov. Scott to continue job creation
efforts and conservative values in Florida. “Gov. Scott's numbers
are not very high,” he explained, “but he's been an outstanding
public servant working hard to grow jobs in Florida.”
In fact, he pointed out, 370,000 jobs have been added since
Gov. Scott took office and the unemployment level has dropped
from 11.1% to 7.1%, making Florida #2 in the nation for
unemployment drop levels. Sen. Latvala supports Gov. Scott's
plan to take some of this year's budget surplus
and return about $500 million back to the
public via reduced taxes. He believes this will
be done by eliminating some of former Gov.
Crist's vehicle fees and other tax cuts.
Sen. Latvala also spoke on a pending ethics
bill that will provide sweeping changes to close
a variety of loopholes he hopes will close the
“revolving door” of lobbyists and the Florida
Legislature.
Sen. Evers, a strawberry
farmer from the Panhandle,
said the state's various “tea
parties” and conservative
values are still very much alive.
He emphasized continued
involvement with time and
money to keep our probusiness state government.
Sen. Evers also spoke on efforts
to revise the state's drug
charges to place abusers into
treatment rather than jail.
“This effort will reduce
expenses in the criminal
justice system while helping people,“ he declared.
He also spoke on the problems of how to pay for Florida's
burgeoning road system in the face of more fuel-efficient vehicles
resulting in declining gas taxes, which pay for road maintenance
and expansion.
Rep. Raburn, another strawberry farmer but from
Hillsborough County, is a freshman legislator and the youngest
in Florida's Legislature. He reiterated his support for Gov. Scott
saying the governor understands small business and job growth.
He also fretted about the media's negative portrayals concerning
Florida's $2 billion government surplus and the lowered
unemployment levels.
After this insightful session finished, members adjourned to
participate in the “May the Force Be With You” Golf Tournament,
the “Fantasy Island” luncheon/boat trip or just relaxed in the
large pool or beautiful Gulf of Mexico.
FRIDAY EVENING COSTUME PARTY
Of course, no matter what afternoon activity was selected,
everyone looked forward to the annual costume/dinner party.
The “Boogie Nights” Costume/Dinner Party was everything
you could imagine from the '70s, including disco divas, large-
CONVENTION...
haired hippies in tie-dye, even a cash throwing pimp and his
entourage! A variety of TV/movie characters were there, too,
including Annie Hall, Fred and Wilma Flintstone and Barney and
Betty Rubble, Mr. Spock, Cher and a special appearance by
anchorman Ron Burgundy. Great food and drinks, dancing, video
singing and a costume contest made for an outstanding evening.
A new twist on the musical chair game made for extra fun.
Congratulations to little Sarah
Kelly who beat out a series of
adults to win the $50 gift card prize
for the chair game.
Congratulations also to the
team of Mark Beecher and John
Weatherford of Bank of the West,
and Tim Wessel and Larry Peter of
Camping World who won this
year's annual golf tournament.
Also to Brian Copley of Copley's
RV for the longest drive (again!)
and to Marks Andrews of Ally for
the closest to the pin shot.
Cheers to Ken Prentiss of
Leisure Time RVs as winner of the men's best
costume and to Brianna Burk of Park Model City
for winning the woman's best costume. Also to
FRVTA's Michael Slater who won for best child's
costume.
Afterwards, attendees made their way to the “I
Will Survive” Hospitality Room where the fun
continued into the night.
SATURDAY MORNING SESSIONS
The focal point of the
convention, education and training,
began bright and early at 8:15 a.m.
Bee On Time winners were John
Anderson of GE Capital and Mark
Murphy from Lightening RV both of
whom won $50 and to Rob Smith
from Fortune Real Estate who won
$100. Way to go!
Lance again greeted bleary-eyed
attendees and thanked all
convention sponsors for the
wonderful costume party. He
reviewed the morning sessions and
dismissed the membership to attend their desired seminar.
This year's Breakout Sessions offered a variety of seminars
selected to appeal to all aspects of the RV Industry.
Featured speakers were: Ryan Marlar, specialist with the
Florida Department of Revenue who updated tax law; Jerry Mann
of Vantage Benefit Solutions detailed how to prepare for
Obamacare; Allen Monello of the Automotive Industry Center
for Excellence reviewed dealer compliance issues; Jim Musbach
from Coast Distribution spoke on establishing a quality parts
department; Tom Walworth from Statistical Surveys, Inc. outlined
Florida RV Industry trends; and Erick Swinson from Morgan
Stanley Smith Barney gave a detailed outlook on economic and
financial trends.
continued from page 4
SATURDAY LUNCHEON
Lunch was up next. Following a tasty '70s meal of mac & cheese
with chicken filet, several raffles that benefited the FRVTA PAC
Fund were held. Lance congratulated George Grimm of Thor
Motor Coach for the winning gumball guess of 352 that won him
a gift basket from SunTrust Bank. George and Treyanne Reynolds
of Systems 2000 also each won a $25 gift card to Outback
Steakhouse courtesy of Dream RV. Tom Walworth
then awarded a Dealer Analysis Report valued at
$1600 to Ken Gifford of Independence RV.
Congratulations to all winners!
Lance went on to thank and recognize all regional
officers who volunteer their time to make the FRVTA
such an outstanding Association. President Abdo
and Vice President Rothenhausler presented officers
from each region a special thank you plaque.
Afterwards, “Disco Dave” Kelly took the
microphone and the “Dy-NO-mite” Game Show
began. This year's fun-filled
activities featured two
teams of four people each
competing to answer '70srelated trivia questions and
name movie/TV tunes. In
between sessions, Disco
Dave asked the same of
audience members. It was a
great time for all!
Following the festivities,
Lance adjourned the
luncheon and the annual
elections for state officers
commenced. After
reviewing officer
qualifications and with no further nominations
from the floor, Lance called for the nominees
to be elected via acclamation.
Congratulations to the new 2014 FRVTA
Executive Board:
Chairman Larry Schaffer; President Sam
Abdo; Vice President Rob Rothenhausler;
Treasurer Ryan Hollan; and Secretary Nelda
Iacono.
SATURDAY EVENING BANQUET
At 6:30 p.m. the membership assembled
again, this time enjoying a cocktail party as a jazz guitarist
entertained. Formal portraits were made as a memorable
keepsake of the weekend.
This year the Silent Auction room was not located near the
banquet hall, so all bidding had to take place BEFORE adjourning
for the evening's meal making for a very crowded room! Items
available this year included Disney-area hotel stays, fighting
aerial helicopters, a variety of men's and women's watches,
luggage, several styles of computer tablets, a drink mixer, a
telescope and much more.
Deanna Pearce of Elite Marketing and sales coordinator for
both the FRVTA magazines and website, staffed a table outside
the room selling raffle tickets at the auction room's entrance.
CONVENTION...
Once members adjourned downstairs to the banquet, Lance
asked for a moment of silence to commemorate all members of
our troops stationed throughout the world as well as to
remember the coming 9-11 anniversary.
Thanking all sponsors once
again, Lance invited Brad
Green of Lightning RV Supply
to give the evening's
invocation. As a seven-piece
combo band played '70s
favorites, attendees enjoyed a
wonderful evening of great
conversation, drinks, dancing
and an outstanding crabmeat
appetizer, wedge salad and
steak filet. Scrumptious!
Following dinner, Lance
asked the audience to
recognize all current and past
FRVTA Board members. He
also again recognized all
FRVTA staff members for their year-round work and
efforts on behalf of the Association.
He then recognized Nelda Iacono as FRVTA
Scholarship Chairman and her committee for their hard
work on this important membership benefit. Saying that
in over 22 years of existence the scholarship program has
awarded over $460,000, Lance recognized all winners
who were in attendance that evening.
Finally, Lance announced that the auction and raffle
tickets sold raised a record $10,250 for the FRVTA PAC
Fund. What a great way to end the weekend. Thank you!
FRVTA General Counsel Marc Dunbar then came to the
podium to direct the evening's raffle. Congratulations to George
continued from page 5
“Lucky” Grimm, who won the $1000 50/50 split. George was
certainly on a roll this weekend! Lori Beecher of Bank of the West
won a $500 Disney gift card and Rob Rothenhausler won a 47”
television. Congratulations to all winners!
Afterwards, President Abdo thanked all FRVTA
staff members and convention attendees for making
the convention such a wonderful event. Calling his
Executive Committee to the dais, he awarded each
with recognition plaques for their hard work and
dedication to the Association.
Lance next announced the Silent Auction winners.
He closed the convention by again thanking all
regional officers for their hard work and to the many
sponsors that made the convention possible. Guests
continued dancing and conversing as the evening
rolled on. Others made their way to the “I Will
Survive” hospitality room where the
party continued into the night.
The 33rd Annual FRVTA
Convention was now a memory,
but those members who made the
effort to come, master new ideas,
and make new business contacts
and friends will now start “Taking
Care of Business...The RV Way” in
the coming selling season.
Mark your calendars now for
next year's 34th Annual FRVTA
State Convention as we return
to Florida's East Coast at the
Harbor Beach Marriott in Fort Lauderdale, September 47, 2014. Be there or be square!
Remember to View More Convention Photos at www.FRVTA.org
Convention Over, But PAC Donations Will Go Far
The convention has come and
gone and it was good to see so
many members enjoying the
festivities at the Sandpearl
Resort. Once again, we thank
Senators Jack Latvala and Greg Evers and Representative
Jake Raburn for their participation in the legislative panel
and their tireless
support of the RV
Industry in Tallahassee.
They offered great
reminders to the value of
the grass roots
participation that is the
backbone of the FRVTA
legislative strength and
also encouraged our
membership to remain
vigilant in the political
process.
Along that line, the
FRVTA PAC Fund had
another record
fundraiser thanks to the
donations to the silent
auction. With the caps
being lifted on political
contributions for state
candidates, the PAC is in
dire need of additional
contributions to ensure
we are able to make a decent showing in the 2014 election
cycle.
Please continue to spread the word and stay involved
with your local efforts to help legislators to secure
reelection while identifying good up-and-coming
candidates interested in joining the legislative ranks.
One the policy side, Florida's lawmakers and executive
branch officials continue to be very responsive to the needs
of the industry. Recent successes in the 2013 legislative
session for the campground industry were followed by
success before DHSMV in clarifying some confusion in the
dealer/manufacturer laws.
As we look ahead, we will have some items worth
considering by the 2014 Legislature and hope to assist Gov.
Scott in his efforts to
maintain a positive
economic environment in
Florida for small businesses
to grow and new businesses
to plant their roots.
With a projected budget
that will include an
additional $1 billion for
education and reserves, and
more than $800
million in proposed
tax cuts, the 2014
session looks to be
more of the same,
which has led to a
resurgence in
Florida's economy
and the local RV
economy.
I hope that each of
you who participated
in the convention
came away with
some “pearls of
wisdom” you can use
in your businesses. Until next year's convention, please
consider me and the rest of the Association’s staff at your
disposal to assist you in helping keep Florida and the
FRVTA on top of the nation's RV Industry.
The recent FRVTA Annual Convention provided another record windfall for our PAC Fund and just in time to
assist with this year’s elections. FRVTA General Counsel Marc Dunbar is a wise steward and knows when and
where to spread the good cheer these funds bring to a politician’s heart. If you were among the many who
contributed, THANK YOU!
Despite a record amount raised, however, now is not the time to relax. Marc informs us that the 2014 election
cycle is yet another important time, especially for the governor’s race. If you are able, please send a donation
to the FRVTA PAC Fund, c/o Florida RV Trade Association, 10510 Gibsonton Road, Riverview, FL 33578. Call the State
Office at 813-741-0488 with any questions you may have about the Fund.
Ready or Not–ObamaCare is Coming!
As our nation thunders
toward full implementation of
“ObamaCare,” surveys indicate
most small employers that do not
have the resources or money to
hire knowledgeable Human Resource employees or other
employee benefit consultants are poorly prepared to meet
compliance requirements.
In fact, many are counting on the
employer mandate requirements that
were to take effect on January 1, 2014
(now delayed until January 1, 2015) as a
reason to not be concerned about the
law. Sounds to me like “Don't worry, be
happy”!
What they do not realize
is the complexity of the law
and, why using the delayed
implementation reprieve to
explore options and do
some strategic planning is a
great idea.
Most likely, employers
have seen the headlines
about companies beginning
to lay off workers to avoid
having to provide benefits.
In Florida (and many other states), a company
with 50 or 100 employees are subject to the same
compliance requirements as IBM, General
Motors, Microsoft, et al. Even worse, they think
laying off workers is the only solution to
ObamaCare. They couldn't be more wrong.
Ladies and gentlemen, this is a complex piece
of legislation. Over 13,000 pages of law, given to
Congress and voted on just days later, before
anyone would have time to thoroughly review it
much less vote on it. But, it was voted into law
by our U.S. Senators and Representatives and immediately
signed by the President. Thus, giving him exactly what he
wanted and what he promised.
In Florida (and some other states), federally mandated
health exchanges have not even been set up yet, even
though they are to be operational by October 1 whether
employers offer group health insurance or not. I wonder
how many small employees don't know that. My guess?...A
lot.
Finally, a few words about compliance and enforcement
of the law. Many things are still unsettled about this law,
making it difficult to comply. However, an employer
should make a “good faith” effort to comply with it,
because generally an employer may have fines and
penalties waived by the IRS if they do. What is a good faith
effort? Well, it's sure not ignoring it.
Our “friends” at the IRS have been charged with
enforcing the law but, even at this
late date, have not disclosed what
or how the law will be enforced. I
guess we should be grateful that
the Department of Labor (DOL) is
not involved...So far. I'm sure I
don't need to remind you that an
IRS audit can always uncover
information about other
violations (IRS related) or human
rights issues (the DOL's main concern). And,
know this; they actually talk to each other.
Ok, so now what? Don't be foolish, get
some help. Whether you are someone
without group coverage or an employer that
offers coverage. This is serious business. Find
an experienced, knowledgeable employee
benefit consultant to help you
NOW, so you won't be liable for
IRS fines, penalties or taxes. I
just happen to know one...
EDITOR'S NOTE:
On September 11, the
Department of Labor (DOL)
announced that employers
covered by the Fair Labor
Standards Act should provide
written notice to their
employees about the Health
Insurance Marketplace (Exchanges) by October 1, 2013.
However, penalties will not be assessed for failing to
provide the notice. Since the IRS enforces this rule, it’s not
yet been determined how the DOL will be involved.
Jerry’s best advice: Act as if penalties will be enforced.
Just give your employees the notice.
Curtin Forecasts Continued Climb for RV Industry
In the fall issue of RVIA’s RV Roadsigns, Dr. Richard Curtin, director of consumer surveys at the
University of Michigan, reports the RV Industry continues its strong movement toward reaching
the high shipment and sales levels found in the 2004-2007 peak years.
The second quarter of 2013 registered RV shipments of 95,500 units, up 14.4% from a year ago
and the highest quarterly level in six years. Motorhome shipments jumped 42.9% and type C units
were up 50%. In fact, total motorhome shipments were the highest since 2008.
For towables, travel trailers and fifth wheels were up by 12.4% when compared to a year ago. This
was the highest level since the second quarter of 2006. The only category
to decline was folding camping trailers.
He expects total shipments for 2013 to be 319,300 units or a gain of 11.7%
over 2012. Furthermore, Dr. Curtin is forecasting 2014 RV shipments to rise
to 334,300 units or a gain of 4.7% over projected 2013 sales.
All these shipments and corresponding sales is anticipated to increase
the market share of motorhomes to 11.6% in 2013, up from 9.9% in 2012.
This elevated level is expected to remain the same for 2014.
Dr. Curtin attributes the strong RV market to restored consumer
confidence, rising home and stock values, the improved availability of credit
and continued, although moderate, gains in job and income prospects. He
gives particular credence to rising home and stock values, which he believes
have sparked higher sales, particularly of motorhomes.
The biggest challenge to continued marketplace progress, he believes, is the lackluster growth in jobs and wages. That’s
why Dr. Curtin stresses that manufacturers must continue with strong product innovations and features/options to reach
consumers from a variety of income levels and budgets.–RVIA Fall RV Roadsigns
2014 RVer's Guide to Florida & Florida RV SuperShow Directory
By now you've received information concerning advertising in these two important consumer
publications. They are an excellent way for you to promote your business to the thousands of
RVer's who travel to Florida each year.
Deanna Pearce of Elite Marketing is handling all ad sales. She is experienced and knowledgeable
about these two important consumer publications, and will be able to assist you in making a cost
effective decision.
Please notice that all ads are in full color. We are also giving members the opportunity to have
a FREE logo next to their listing in the RVer's Guide to Florida when a full page ad is purchased.
Advertisers who purchase smaller ads can have their logo listed as well for a nominal fee.
Deanna will contact you soon or you can use the Advertising Order Form previously sent to you
to place your advertisement. If you have any questions, please contact Dave Kelly in the FRVTA
State Office at 813-741-0488 or Deanna Pearce at (863) 318-0193 or by email [email protected].
You can also go to www.FRVTA.org and access the media kit for detailed information.
REGION 1 • October 7 • JD’s Bistro (new day & location) • 1951 Tamiami Trl. • Pt. Charlotte • Space Draw
REGION 2 • October 16 • Red Lobster • 6638 Lake Worth Rd. • Lake Worth • Space Draw (WPB Feb.)
REGION 3 • October 8 • Embassy Suites • 555 N Westshore Blvd. • Tampa
REGION 4 • October 9 • Lone Star Steakhouse • 8850 Vineland Ave. • Orlando • Space Draw
REGION 5 • No Meeting
REGION 6 • October 15 • Copeland’s of New Orleans • 4310 Southside Blvd. • Jacksonville • Space Draw
REGION 7 • October 24 • Horse & Hounds • 6998 NW Highway 27 • Ocala • Space Draw
All meetings: Cocktails 6:30 PM • Dinner 7:00 PM