Travel Resorts of America E-Traveler Newsletter
March, 2010
In this edition:
Resort Operations News,
From: Richard Kellermann
Hello All,
Brrrrrrr...
This is what I am feeling as I write this article, although I am finally able to see the ground. I'd almost forgotten what brown grass looked like in the winter time. Two snowstorms less than a week apart really gave us a beating. I have been in Gettysburg for a little over 11 years now and have only seen one snowstorm with a significant amount of snowfall that I can recall. That snowstorm was about 8 years ago with about 18 inches of accumulation. This year alone we had about 42 inches of snow in less than a week. The first snowfall was welcomed in a way. Most of you know I am from the 'South' and we never really receive much snow, mainly ice storms; so the first snow storm was a beautiful sight; although the shoveling and plowing did not give us much time to enjoy the beauty, nor the energy to go out and build as many snowmen or snow angels as we desired. I am sure the kids would disagree with me on that one though.
The second snowstorm really made us work harder than the first. Besides being a wetter snow, which equaled to a heavier snow, there was the major factor of equipment 'downtime'. Now, we like to be prepared before any type of disturbing weather arrives, but the day before the arrival of the second snow storm we found out that the big loader simply would not turn over and start. I have always been told that cold weather will 'beat' batteries. Well, after trying to 'jump' to no avail and noticing the punch out date on the batteries was 6 years old; we simply purchased and replaced the batteries. Imagine our faces when the loader still would NOT start. Seems our starter in the big loader decided to “go” along with the batteries. We were now in the early afternoon before the storm. The starter is located on the side of the engine behind a plate that is held with 4 bolts. The arm of the loader is also on the side. I am not sure if you understand this or not, but have you ever tried to move any piece of machinery or any of hydraulic mechanism when the unit is NOT running? If you have, you know exactly the hardship Leroy and Sam had to endure to get the bucket lifted without the aid of the engine. Fast forward 3 hours later and the starter was finally disassembled from engine housing; only to find out that our local supplier didn't have the starter in stock and it was well past 2 p.m. A starter was finally located and off Sam went to Fredrick, Maryland. Great, we were still going to be ready come next morning. Nope, upon Sam's arrival back with the new starter it was noticed that the starter looked a little different as far as hooking the wires back. Now, imagine how our faces looked this time when we found out that we needed a conversion kit for the 'new improved Turbo' starter. You would think that the supplier would have informed us or at least have had one in stock. Not our luck, but we did find out there was a conversion kit in Harrisburg. It's now after 3 p.m. and snow was starting to fall; so off Sam went to retrieve the conversion kit. Sam barely made it there before closing. Now as Sam drove back from Harrisburg the snow was falling at a much more rapid pace and traffic was just creeping, rightfully so I might add. Sam arrived back shortly before 8 p.m. Everyone was tired and it was decided to just install the starter in the morning. Next morning, the storm was somewhat at a standstill and did not appear to be in any hurry to move out. Nevertheless the starter was finally installed as Leroy and Sam braved the cold, blowing, twirling snow. Leroy got in the big loader and turned the key and it started. Imagine Leroy grinning ear to ear just from the sound of the rapid turning starter and the firing of the engine. What a relief! Now we were ready. WRONG! The loader did not move when engaged. You have got to be kidding was my reaction! The thought came to mind that perhaps the linkage had come loose. The only problem was that the linkage assembly is located behind the massive rear tire. Not something we were equipped to handle, not to mention the storm was turning for the worst. Defeat was upon us, so we decided to retreat until next morning. Next morning, the storm had passed. The great 'dig out' began. But before we could 'dig out' the resort, all the staff members had to 'dig out' from their own homes. It was late morning before the staff was able to arrive. A local tire service center was called to take off the rear wheel for us to examine the linkage. At least we had the little skid loader to clear a path for the service truck. The only problem was that the skid loader was in no way equipped to push large amounts of snow. However, just like the little train that kept saying 'I think I can, I think I can'; a path was cleared in two hours for the service truck to un-mount the tire. The tire was un-mounted and upon doing so, a large chunk of mud fell off as well. Apparently the large chunk of mud was frozen solid between the linkage and the wheel base, not allowing the linkage to move freely. Easy fix - tire was mounted! Finally, something went right for a change. It was now just after 1 p.m. and the front entrance and roadways of the resorts were finally being plowed. The process took us over two days and indeed we did have some campers who braved the storm. For those who camped with us we apologize for not having you dug out sooner; there were some things beyond our control. I guess the point I am trying to make is that not only am I looking forward to 'Spring', but no matter how hard or difficult any task is thrown upon us we continue to move forward. I, for one am very proud of the core staff we have and that includes not only Leroy and Sam, but also the girls of the resort, Bryana, Tara, Sherry, Tina and Michele whom all labored and shoveled snow from the walkways, cabins, lodge, etc.
We have had some more close calls as 'mother nature' lashed out and we will probably have more before spring arrives. I hope not, since we are a man short right now. Leroy, the big guy on the loader and our master construction guru, finally had his long ailing knee operated on. Seems he has a total knee replacement and will no longer need to keep oiling like the Tin Man from 'Wizard of Oz'. We all wish him a speedy recovery. Leroy is doing great and it is just a matter of time before he is back on the machine constructing new sites which is only one of several projects scheduled for 2010. A total renovation of the swimming pool is another project as well as Wi-Fi for the resort. I am not going to list all of the projects now as I will continue to update the newsletter to keep you informed or better yet come camping and you will see the improvements.
Until next time,
Happy Camping, (that is if you were able to get yourself 'dug out')!
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Resort Operation News,
From: Ron Williams
Howdy from Sycamore Lodge!
Spring is almost here, and it cannot come soon enough for most of our members. No matter where you call home this has been a winter to remember and I am sure that many of you have been afflicted with cabin fever. Of course the great news is you have the remedy to cure that cabin fever, an escape to Sycamore Lodge.
In January I wrote about some of the exciting plans we have for 2010, as we progress through the year I will keep you updated on our progress.
- Our number one priority continues to be the addition of sewer sites. We are meeting with the state and working on the final details for our permit. Our plan is to install additional sewer sites in 2010.
- We are currently seeking bids on the design and construction of a new nine hole miniature golf course. The new course will be a contemporary design using natural structures that will be fun for kids and challenging for adults.
- Our General Store has received a face lift with some new display space and counters. A new fountain drink machine has been installed and look for nachos, cappuccino, and an upgraded coffee service in the near future. Be sure to check out all the merchandise that is arriving daily.
- We are working through some technical issues on the design of our new Wi-Fi system. In the very near future you will be able to surf the internet in the comfort of your RV. No more packing up your laptop and driving to the lodge. I know members are very excited about this improvement, to quote one of our members “I will be able to check my email while in my pajamas”.
Just a reminder we have a new policy on private golf carts on the resort. Please read the Frequently Asked Questions included in this newsletter, or give us a call for more information.
I have an open door policy and I encourage all members to stop by my office on the first floor of the lodge if you need assistance, have a suggestion or just want to say hello. Of course everyone is invited to attend our weekly Meet the Manager Meetings on Saturday's at 10:00 AM.
Thanks to all our staff and members at Sycamore Lodge for making my first months a pleasure. We have some wonderful folks on staff at the resort, who work tirelessly to make sure everything is perfect for your next visit. Be sure to let us know how we are doing on you next visit.
Spring is here and it is time to have some fun, see you real soon at Sycamore Lodge!
Ron Williams
Resort Operations Manager
Sycamore Lodge
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Snow!
Calm after the snowfall
YEAH! Let the Bog Toy Play!
Campers: Help but wonder if maybe they were saying to themselves, 'I think we should have stayed home'
Sam and Tina: I am sure they are glad this is over, at least for now.
Roadway behind Cabins
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Check out what happens when women get a hold of some power tools!!
It has been a busy and productive winter season at GBR. The General Store has undergone a face lift!
But do you think Sherry, Tara, Michele, and Bryana allowed the men to do it? No way! We drilled, hammered, pried, sanded, and glazed. It was hard work, but we ended up making the store looking a heck of a lot bigger and now we have even added new products. We do have to give credit to Sammy, Leroy, and Richard, as they did help some. But, for the record, us women kicked some power tool butt!
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Campfire Chicken Pot Pie
Ingredients
- 4-6 Whole Boneless Chicken Breast (or chicken of choice)
- 1 Cream of Chicken, Mushroom or Broccoli Soup
- 1/2 c water or milk
- 1 Can Mushrooms
- 2 Bags of Califlower, Broccoli and Carrots (frozen vegetable mix)
- 1 large onion
- Olive Oil
- Butter
- Salt & Pepper (or seasoning of choice)
- Cooking Spray
Directions
Spray the bottom of a medium sized foil baking pan with the cooking spray. Line the bottom of the pan with sliced onions. Spread the sliced mushrooms and frozen vegetable mix over the onion layer. Mix soup and water (or milk). Spread soup mixture over vegetables. Add a little olive oil and butter. Season chicken and place on top of mixture. Using heavy duty aluminum foil, cover the pan completely from side to side and end to end wrapping all the way over the bottom of the pan to create a good seal. Put on camping rack over hot coals. Check for doneness after approximately 1 hour (cooking time will vary depending on the heat from the coals). You may place directly on the coals, but the mixture may stick to the bottom of the pan. Serve with your choice of bread.
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New for 2010
The General Store at Gettysburg Battlefield Resort will begin a monthly promotion each month during the peak season. The first promotion will be a raffle for a bag full of camping supplies, food, games, and much more with a retail value of over $100.00! The raffle tickets will cost $2.00 each or 3 for $5.00 and will be sold starting March 1st thru April 30th in the General Store. The winner will be pulled at the ‘Meet the Manager’ meeting on Saturday, May 1st at 10 a.m. The winner does not need to be present to claim their prize; and, ‘as icing on the cake’, we will be donating the proceeds from promotions to several charities. Come and Check it Out! Better yet, take a chance; it will be for a “good cause”.
The peak season months of raffling will be May, June, July, August, September, October and November.
Donation proceeds will be given to a different organization of each peak season month.
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New Golf Cart Guidelines and Enforcement of Existing Guidelines
Beginning January 1, 2010 there are new guidelines and regulations for Private Golf Cart usage at Travel Resorts of America. In addition to these new guidelines pertaining to Private Golf Carts, the existing guidelines pertaining to ATV's, motorcycles and other similar privately owned vehicles will be enforced. Listed below are frequently asked questions about the new guidelines and regulations.
Why are the guidelines changing? The popularity of golf carts as a convenient, fun mode of transportation has grown dramatically during the past few years. Unfortunately golf cart related accidents during that same time have also grown. This increase has changed insurance requirements on campgrounds and resorts that allow private golf carts. Our insurance carrier now reports golf cart related incidents as the second highest claim.
What are my insurance requirements? Each member must provide proof of $100,000 liability insurance. The proof of insurance must list the member's name, address, cover limits, and specifically list golf cart coverage. Golf cart insurance is available through most insurance carriers, and coverage may be available through you current homeowners or auto insurance. If you need additional assistance finding coverage, contact the Resort Store for a list of local agents that offer golf cart insurance.
Where do I send my proof of insurance? Send your proof of insurance to the Resort store at your home park. Your insurance agent can fax a proof of insurance directly to the Resort store. The fax number for Sycamore Lodge is (910) 693-3065, and Gettysburg Battlefield Resort is (717) 337-1756.
What is the cost for a golf cart pass? The annual pass is $120, or a daily pass is $5.00.
What does the golf cart passes look like? The annual pass is a 3” x 3” that is affixed to the driver's side front of the golf cart. The daily pass is a paper band that is affixed to the driver's side roof support or to the steering wheel.
What are the dates on the annual golf cart pass? The annual pass is valid for the current calendar year and expires on December 31st.
Where do I purchase a golf cart pass? Both annual and day passes are purchased at the Resort store.
If I purchase the daily pass do I have to provide a proof of insurance on every visit? The Resort store will keep your insurance on file so it is not necessary to provide a proof on every visit; however each member is responsible for sending a copy of the renewed policy when it expires.
Is my Annual Golf Cart Pass Valid at all Travel Resorts? Yes
Are visiting Coast to Coast Members and Guests required to meet the same guidelines and regulations? Yes
If you have further questions please contact one of the TRA Resorts directly.
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