Creating first impressions

Providing guests with their very first experience at Larry and Penny Thompson Memorial Park and Campground is what Emerald Jones, a Guest Service Representative with the Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces (PROS) Department, enjoys most.

“I’ve had the pleasure of welcoming people from all over the world to stay at our park,” Emerald shares. “Visitors come from across the United States, as well as Canada, Germany, Israel, and even as far as Australia. Being their first impression and welcoming them after such long journeys is how we help ensure their stay starts off right.”

Emerald began her career with PROS in 2015 as a part-time Park Service Aide and was promoted to Guest Service Representative in 2022. Over the years, she has dedicated herself to supporting the guests’ experiences across the park’s 240 RV sites.

“I primarily handle bookings for our winter season, from November through March,” she explains. “We often have returning guests who visit every year. Some stay for a few weeks, others for up to six months.”

During these extended stays, the team at Larry and Penny have the opportunity to build meaningful connections with visitors. Emerald recalls one particularly memorable guest.

“I first met Mr. Campbell during my first or second year at the park. He had been a regular for quite some time. I remember when he reached out to let us know he might not return after his wife passed away. However, he decided to make the trip, and over the years, we became friends. He would stop by the office for help with his cellphone or laptop. Even though he stopped visiting about two years ago due to his age, I still make it a point to connect with him on his birthday.”

Creating welcoming and memorable experiences is something Emerald consistently brings to her role. During a recent stay, guests Doug and Deb Jones shared:

“We truly enjoyed our experience from start to finish. The staff were welcoming, and the campground was well organized and well maintained. Ms. Emerald Jones worked with us and was able to book us for four months next season—and hopefully many more to come.

We can’t say enough good things about the staff at Larry and Penny. Their passion, professionalism, and ability to consistently deliver exceptional service have made a lasting impression on us. We feel like family here. Ms. Jones is an exceptional person who clearly loves her job and is a terrific role model. She is organized, compassionate, and sincere—what a terrific combination. You are very lucky to have her on your team.”

Emerald credits the team at Larry and Penny for fostering an environment where everyone “feels like family.” Outside of her daily responsibilities, she enjoys singing and has participated in various camper shows. She also credits her children, Savannah and Noah, as her greatest motivation.

When asked for a takeaway message, Emerald shared:

“Make every moment count, and just be kind. You never know what someone else is going through, and one interaction can change their mood, their day—or even their entire outlook.”

Keep THRIVING, Emerald!