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Education, Legislative News and Fun Made Up 43rd FRTVA Convention

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The Florida RV Trade Association (FRVTA) held its 43rd convention earlier this month at the Marriott Harbor Beach Resort in Ft. Lauderdale. The Hawaiian-themed convention featured leis, loads of flowery shirts and dresses and even a Hawaiian dance troupe on Saturday evening.

The convention kicked off Thursday evening with the “Aloha” reception featuring great food and beverages, and there were games and giveaways.

“The staff does a great job of coming up with ideas like the bingo mixer game to help people break the ice and meet one another,” said FRVTA Executive Director Dave Kelly. “The friendships that have been made over the years at the convention are in part to the activities we create.”

Later in the convention came the “Trial of the Century.” Harold Oehler of Oehler Mediation presented the trial of Lee King vs. Mellan Camp RV and its manufacturer, Colossal, claiming alleged defects in his motorhome. The audience served as the jury as the trail unfolded. This mock trail pointed out the best industry practices that could help dealers prevent complaints turning into lawsuits.

Phil Ingrassia, head of the RV Dealers Association; the RV Industry Association’s Mike Ochs; and the RV Technical Institute’s Curt Hemmeler were also on hand to speak to the crowd, including updating them on the national legislative landscape.

“We are fortunate that the three organizations send their reps to our convention,” said Kelly. “It shows how important the state of Florida is to the RV Industry and we appreciate them taking time out of their busy schedules to come address our members.”

Later there was a costume and dinner partner, and multiple breakout sessions were held that were of interest to the attendees.

FRVTA also held the election for State Officers for 2023-24. Returning for one more year will be President Ken Loyd; Vice President Nelda Iacono; Secretary Brett Howard;

Next year’s conference will be held at the Renaissance Sewa World Resort in Orlando, Sept. 5-8, 2024.

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