STARBUCK-When Steve and Teri Klonz, of Seven K's Enterprises, took over as concessionaires at Lyons Ferry Marina KOA last year, Wally and Joanne Knouf were the work campers for the Klonz's predecessors, Jim and Angela McArthur, who were retiring.

The Knoufs were then hired by Seven K's Enterprises to manage the day to day operations of the facilities.

Steve Knouf said that he and Teri had an early opening this year, and it has been busy so far. "It's a whole new experience. We're still learning a lot," said Wally Knouf.

Since the Knoufs came on board, many improvements are underway. The inside of the restaurant has received a fresh new look with a coat of paint and other upgrades.

But Knouf said they haven't solved the shortage of staff, which has been a perpetual problem for the concessionaires at the marina. He said they are in need of a cook, work campers, and people to perform outside maintenance. The pay ranges from $11.50 per hour plus tips for cooks, and $12 or higher for outside maintenance, depending on experience.

Right now, Knouf is working to get three new campground cabins connected to water and sewer services, with the goal of having two of them ready for rental by August 1. He is also planning to build a front deck and porch on the largest of the three cabins.

The cabins, which are considered RVs, are completely furnished, with kitchens, dining areas, bedrooms, living rooms and bathrooms, as well as heating and air conditioning. A fourth cabin is a laundry, with three washers and three dryers.

Knouf said working with the people at Seven K's Enterprises has been a great experience. "We hope everybody is happy with what they're seeing, and how we're doing things," he said.

Knouf said to phone the Lyons Ferry Marina at (509) 399-8020 for campground reservations, or for information about employment.