One RVDA retailer member and two RVDA associate members were honored with Charman's Service Awards on September 25th during the RV Dealer's International Convention/Expo in Las Vegas, NV.

The Chairman's Service Award recognizes those who have made significant contributions to the association over an extended period of time. The awards were presented by RVDA Past Chairman of the Board Ernie Friesen of All Seasons RV Center in Yuba City, CA. The 2001 Chairman's Service Award recipients are:

Randy Biles of Pikes Peak Traveland, Colorado Springs, CO. "Randy Biles serves RVDA in many capacities, most recently as a confidant in his position of immediate Past Chairman," Friesen said. "Randy has worked very hard as a dealer advocate on a number of complex legislative and industry relations issues. He continues to be active in RVDA, serving on the Board of Delegates, on the RVDA Education Foundation Board of Directors, the RVDA Technician Certification Governing Board, and was recently elected to serve on the RV Assistance Corp(RVAC)Board. We are very fortunate to enjoy the continuing benefits of his involvement in this association."

Bill Koster, Deutsche Financial Services/The DFS Advantage, St. Louis, MO.

"Bill Koster has worked closely with RVDA members for 10 years," Friesen said. "After problems in the late 1980's and early 1990's, RVDA leaders looked for an extended service agreement company that could provide financial stability and a quality product. Bill Koster and DFS filled the void and provide important financial support to the association as well as great customer service. Bill is also one of the newest members elected to serve on the RVDA Education Foundation Board of Directors."

Duane Spader, The Spader Companies, Sioux Falls, SD. "Duane Spader has been associated with RVDA for parts of four decades now," said Friesen. "He served as RVDA president in 1974 and 1975. . .which was our chief elected volunteer leader at that time. As the founder of The Spader Companies, he was instrumental in forming the RVDA-Spader 20 Groups and business management concepts that have been important in the development and growth of so many dealerships. . .including my own."

RVDA is the national association representing RV retailers. The association's members include RV dealers, RV rental operators, and RV AfterMarket sales and service locations.