Harrisburg Show Preview PRVCA RV Show Strong demand for exhibitor space at the 2000 Pennsylvania RV Show in Harrisburg has prompted the Pennsylvania RV and Campground Association (PRVCA) to add an additional 52,000 square feet of display space making this the largest Harrisburg show in history, according to Rebecca Lenington, executive director of PRVCA. The theme for this year's event is "It's the Big One." As always, the Harrisburg Show will be at the Farm Show Complex, and this year will run from September 11 - 17, with September 11-12 reserved for the trade only. And whether it's selling, education or entertainment, the PRVCA show has something for everyone, including testing opportunities for professional certifications. On September 11th, RV Technicians will have the opportunity to test for their certification at the NRVTI RV Technician Certification Test Day. The test will be conducted from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in classroom A-1 (second floor, Maclay St. entrance) and you must preregister to be admitted to the test. Interested technicians need to call RVDA (800.336.0355, ext 102, Sue Reinhart) to register. And for campground and resort managers in Campground Continuing Education program a certification test will be held on "Pesticide Applicator's Certification" (September 12th noon to 3 p.m, in Classroom A- l). Advanced registration is required for this "open book" test. Then campground and resort managers can also earn credits by taking two classes. For Pesticide Applicator's core credits, there will be a class on September 12th from 1 to 2 p.m. in Lobby B. The other class, "Simple Solutions to Common Pool Problems" earns credit in the Swimming Pool Category (September 12th, 2 to 3 p.m.) also in Lobby B. Advanced registration is preferred and the $25 registration includes both classes.
Also targeted specifically for campground processionals, W.R. "Bill" Garpow, RPTIA Executive Director, will lead a manufacturers' panel discussion on "Manufacturing Trends for the New Millennium" September 12th at 11 a.m. in Lobby B, Farm Show Complex. Headlining this year's trade portion of the show is football hall of famer and Green Bay Packer legend, Bart Star. Star is the keynote speaker for the annual Red Carpet Breakfast on September 12th at the Harrisburg Marriot hotel ballroom. Star will speak on "Being the Best You Can Be." In addition, 12 Bart Star autographed footballs will be auctioned to benefit PRV PAC. Star will also be on hand to autograph photos for the attendees. In addition to Star's inspirational talk, there will be a full agenda of educational programs for industry professionals. Noted F&I expert Jan Kelly will present a two- part program, "Improving The F&I Bottom Line for Principals" and "Improving F&I Profits for Managers" Kelly's presentation will show dealers how to increase profits and customer satisfaction. Part 1 is scheduled for September 11th in Lobby B of the Farm Show Complex from 1 to 3 p.m. Part 2 follows immediately and runs from 3 to 5 p.m, For those not already registered, the cost is $150, normally $230. The cost difference is being subsidized by Tobin Associates. Education opportunities continue when US Gear presents a proprietary seminar on "Supplemental Braking for Dinghy Vehicles" in Lobby B on September 11th at 11 a.m. The annual Supplier Open House will be held on the show floor in the large arena on September 11th from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. This year the event features music by a Bavarian band, bratwurst, cheese, soda and beer. Admission is free to attendee and exhibitor badge-holders. The PRVCA Insurance Committee will present a program on "When Do You Need to Be a Licensed Insurance Agent?" designed to educate dealers on the differences between "referring" and "soliciting." The program will explain the existing statutes of states contiguous to PA, how to get and maintain a license, describe a true referral system, and present the penalties for noncompliance. The program will be held on September 12th at 3 p.m. in Lobby B. Then, with the trade event portion of the show complete, it's time to mentally prepare for the intense public days of the show. And what better way to get into a positive mode that to attend a party. PRVCA's annual industry party is noted for its food, drink and entertainment, so this year's event will not disappoint anyone with high expectations. The industry party is held on the eve of the public show opening and this year will feature the "Capitol Steps" an irreverent political satire comedy group that has appeared on NPR, PBS and CNN. Attendees will be the guest of PRVCA and admittance is by wearing a show badge, starting at 7 p.m. on September 12th at Harrisburg Marriott Ballroom. RVN |