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The E-Traveler - your online newsletter

Our goal is to communicate more frequently with you and let you know about all of the new and exciting things happening at Travel Resorts of America - Sycamore Lodge and Gettysburg Battlefield Resort. Enjoy!

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Greetings from Gettysburg

Wow, summer is in full swing and boy has it been a hot one so far!!! Despite the scorching heat we have been having lots of fun.

RECENT HAPPENINGS

Renovation, Refurbishing, Additions...

Site Additions

Currently Gettysburg Battlefield Resort is in the process of adding 14 more sites located in the vicinity behind the cabins. The area was cleared and fencing was moved back 12 feet to make the sites longer. The electrical pedestals, electrical wiring, distribution panel box, service disconnect, water hydrants, etc were ordered and are now on the job site.

Construction

Making Progress

Looking Good

We have been in discussions about electrical upgrades and hope to have a time line in place for upgrades within a few weeks, but in the interim we are checking into having capacitor banks installed to assist the current electrical infrastructure. As further assistance we'd like all of you to help by keeping an eye on your electrical use, especially when it is as hot as it has recently been and when we are going through a dry spell. Take a look below to see how many amps some commonly used appliances require:

Most electrical products have the watts or amps they take to operate printed on the products themselves. If it shows watts, to find amps, dived the watts by 120 (volts).

Game Room Update

Pictures of the new game room are here! There is still more work to be done, but check out the progress we have made.

Let's Race

ARCADE FUN FOR EVERYONE

PAC MAN ... CLASSIC!

ARE YOU FEELING LUCKY?

Help donate to the American Diabetes Association and you could win a golf cart!! Gettysburg Battlefield Resort is holding a raffle for a 2005 refurbished golf cart. We are also holding a drawing for a golf cart. The proceeds will go to the American Diabetes Association. We would like to thank Welford Shifflett (aka Peanut) for refurbishing the golf cart. We will only be selling 300 tickets for this awesome golf cart.

What would make this ride look even cooler? YOU!

American Heart Association Donation

The General Store at Gettysburg donated $240 to the American Heart Association last month. As part of our monthly promotion, we raffled off a package full items that support a healthy life style such as walking sticks, Pedal Kart gift certificate, sports balls, and other fun things. We have shown great success with this raffle and plan on continuing it in the future. We appreciate the support from our members and guests in making donations. The next raffle consists of nearly $200 worth of camping essentials and goodies. A portion of the proceeds will go to The Ronald McDonald House.

Bucket Lists!

Bucket Lists….you never know what they will have you doing! Gettysburg's employees Jay Thurston and Bryana Nelson decided it was time to scratch one of those goals off their lists by going skydiving! Yes, skydiving! Here's a look at their experience: Full jump suit and helmet in 100 degree heat on the ground, 2 hours of instruction and signing of waivers, 20 minutes in a 120 degree plane to reach 10,500 feet, 20 minutes to question why you would do this as every minute feels like a lifetime of waiting while watching the Altimeter slowly climb. Then, a sudden and steady burst of air as the door flings open, a “ready and go”, then 40 seconds of free fall at 120 mph, though things feel like they are standing still. Then, 8 minutes of silence and serenity as you soar above the land, watching as things begin to take shape. A hard pull down on the cords and you are back on the ground, never to be the same again. Skydiving…everyone should do it at least once!

Bryana when she did the parachute jump!

Jay, note: she is 73! Now we all will have to jump!

GETTYSBURG ACTIVITIES

Wild Wild West

June started with a wild ride, the mechanical bull paid a visit to Gettysburg Battlefield Resort and what a blast everyone had trying to tame that bull! Even Richard Kellermann gave it a go. (Side note: Richard had the operator slow it down for him!)

Ride em' cowgirl!

Hold on tighter….tossed off!

This is not what I planned!?

Chocolate Weekend

Death by Chocolate weekend followed right behind the bull. Chocoholics got their fill of the decadent stuff! We had two entries into our sweet treat tasting contest. The entrants were Dawn Wallick and Wanda Scheeler. The judges had a delectable time sampling their entries. We also held a pudding eating contest. We had a great turn out at this event and the participants really got into the task!

The cutest mess!

Chocolate Syrup Finger-painting! Beautiful!

READY AND LOOKING SWEET!

YUM! YUM!

Puddin Face!

EVERYONE IS A CHOCOLATE WINNER!

Father's Day

Father's Day brought a special treat, putt-putt! Everyone seemed to be having a good time with our down home version. Many were sorry to see it being removed. Rest assured, it will be back soon on a more permanent basis. We rounded out the weekend with our annual Father's Day dinner.

Wet N' Wild

We started June 'wild' and we ended June 'wild'. Wet N' Wild weekend was a blast! We held our 2nd annual water gun shoot out. For several hours everyone was open game, even the staff. There was a huge exchange of 'water'. Several hours of pools games, such as Seahorse Toss, Jolly Roger boats, Cannonball contest, Aqua-golf, Lily Pad Leap and Basketball H2O! We rounded things off with a pool party which included music, more games and of course our belly flop contest.

Hoops!

FOUR!

CANNONBALL!!!!!!!!!!

TAKING AIM……..

Update on A.J. Tidwell, one of our loyal Work Kampers

On June 18th, A.J. had a mishap and injured his hip. He has had surgery, which we're excited to say, went well. He is making a speedy recovery but will more than likely be out of work for the rest of the season, though we're sure we'll still be seeing him around the resort. On an aside, Richard would like to tell A.J. that if he really wanted some time off, all he had to do was ask.

DON'T FORGET

Kids in the Kitchen program

Our Kids in the Kitchen program is doing well. Thus far, we have made peanut butter balls, fresh waffle and ice cream sandwiches and dirt! We hope to see more and more kids enjoying this appetizing program, so come on in…to the kitchen that is.

Flea Markets

Don't forget about the monthly Flea Markets! This will provide crafters and other vendors with a 'marketplace' to offer their wares. These events will be held on the last Saturday of each month thereafter, up through October.

Facebook

Good news, Gettysburg Resort is now on Facebook! This is a great place for you to keep informed about special events, general resort information and so forth. We can be found by searching, “Gettysburg Battlefield Resort”. Information specific to activities is listed under the Events tab. This is the best location to find out exact times for upcoming events. Join us!

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Greetings from Sycamore Lodge

RECENT HAPPENINGS

Renovation, Refurbishing, Additions...

Poolside Improvements

In the past it has been difficult to find a spot to lounge at the pool during busy weekends. That has all changed with the arrival of our new pool furniture in early June. The number of chaise lounges and chairs has tripled, and six tables with large umbrellas have been added.

POOLSIDE

TV Anyone?

Just because your camping doesn't mean you have to watch that special race or critical game on a small screen. See it now on our new big screen HD television in the Lodge's adult lounge.

Wi-Fi at Sycamore

We had some technical issues on the design of our new Wi-Fi system which delayed installation, but we are pleased to report we have resolved these issues and our new Wi-Fi system should be operational by the end of July. So get ready to surf the Internet in the comfort of your RV real soon.

Sewer Site Addition

As I have stated before in this column our number one priority is the addition of sewer sites. As everyone knows we have been engaged in a three year battle with the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources over the addition of additional sewer sites. At the center of this discussion has been the flow rates with which our sewer systems are to be engineered. Earlier this year we meet at length with NCDEH and we were able put together a plan that will allow us to move forward with permits.

It was our expectation that we could begin the permitting process for additional sewer sites in September. However that process has moved faster than expected and we now have been cleared by the state to begin the permitting process. Our expectation is that construction could begin as soon as early Fall. We are excited about the developments and hope to bring this long and difficult process to an end. I can assure you we doing everything possible to add more sewer sites for your enjoyment as soon as possible.

Miniature Golf

Our new miniature golf course is just around the corner. Construction on a our new nine hole course will begin on July 6th, and should be complete by the end of July.

MINI GOLF PLANS

Open Door

If you need some assistance, have suggestions, or just want to say hello, Ron has an open door policy and loves for members to stop by. Ron's office is located on the first floor of the lodge.

Golf Cart Drive-In

If you are looking for an even bigger screen than our new HD TV in the adult lounge, join us for one our scheduled Golf Cart Drive-In Theaters. The eight foot by twelve foot screen is located at the amphitheater near the lake. Bring your golf cart, chairs, or blanket and see a movie under the stars. Check the activity guide for scheduled shows, and check out photos from our first showing below.

Meet me at the drive-in?

Father's Day

Sycamore Lodge's Father's Day Fishing Tournament was a great time. Our winner was Aaron Locklear. Thanks to all the father and sons that participated.

Aaron Locklear

Father's Day Fishing Tournament Contestants

Spring Golf Tournament

Our Spring Golf Tournament was held at Beacon Ridge in West End. The turn-out was great…24 folks played the course and much fun was had by all! Tournament winners listed below.

1st Place Team: Ted Hemminger, Nancy Hemminger, Rod Starr

2nd Place Team: Darrel Woody, Billy Rusich, Andrew Brown

3rd Place Team: Greg Hunt, J.R. Sparks, Graham Wells

• Longest Drive: Billy Rusich
• Nearest to the Pin: Richard Britt
• Most Honest Golfer: Robbie Poplin

UPCOMING SYCAMORE ACTIVITIES

Summer is in full swing at Sycamore Lodge! New this year we are offering planned recreation activities 7 days a week! There is always something fun happening.

Make sure you pick up the weekly activity guide when you arrive, so you will not miss any of our fun events.

Kelly Fritz
Recreation Director

Mardi Gras Celebration!

First up is our Mardi Gras Celebration! Make your own unique Mardi Gras masks and join in the parade around the resort! Attend the member social and you could be the King or Queen of Mardi Gras.

The Seventies

You don't need a time machine because July 16th – 18th we are taking it back to The Seventies. Come customize your own retro tie-dye t-shirt! We will have GLAM ROCK face painting and a far-out costume and dance contest under the tent where we'll listen to those tunes you know and love! So, come on and put on your boogie shoes!

The Islands

The Islands are coming to Sycamore Lodge July 23rd - 24th. Which Island? No Particular Island! Bring your flip flops, and tropical attire as we do all things Island Style.

Hollywood Weekend

If you have ever wanted to be in Movies, then July 26th – August 1st is your chance. We will celebrate Hollywood Weekend with the production of our Sycamore Lodge Movie. Beginning early in the week you will have a chance to take part in the production.

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Help Wanted!
We need your help to jump start Roscoe's new and exciting referral program.

Click here to learn about your program and how to win some great prizes!

Or Email:

roscoe@travelresorts.com

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Volunteers Needed

Halloween is just around the corner and we are looking for volunteers to help with our annual Haunted Forest October 29th – 30th.

Volunteers Needed!

Halloween is just around the corner and we are looking for volunteers to help with our annual Haunted Forest October 29th – 30th. Our Haunted Forest is the one time of year we open Sycamore Lodge to the public to raise money for Lymphoma Research.

Whether it is construction, make-up, costumes, or playing a monster we need your help to make our Haunted Forest a success. Planning and construction will begin in August, and any assistance will be welcome. This year we plan to add to the scary fun with some new frights, so we will need extra help.

If you would like to volunteer or need more information please contact our Recreation Director Kelly Fritz at kfritz@travelresorts.com or 910-652-5559 extension 1401.

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Campfire Recipe

You've got to check out this recipe! Easy to do, and made for a campfire.

Bonfire toffee is the absolute treat on Bonfire night in the UK. The Treacle Toffee Recipe for Bonfire Toffee is simple, quick and easy to make but must be approached with caution; toffee gets very, very hot (up to 140 °C/ 270°) as it is boils. Treacle Toffee keeps very well stored in an airtight tin so make enough for Bonfire night and extra toffee for Christmas.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1lb/450g dark brown sugar
• ¼ pint/120ml water
• ¼ level tsp cream of tartar
• ½cup/115g black treacle/molasses
• ½cup/115g golden syrup/corn syrup

Preparation:
Makes 1¼lb/500g toffee

• Butter a 12" x 4"/30cm x 10cm or 7"/18cm square tin.
• In a heavy based 4-pint sauce pan dissolve the sugar and water over a low heat. Add all the remaining ingredients and bring to the boil. Using a sugar or toffee thermometer boil to 270°/140°C (soft crack). If you do not have a sugar or toffee thermometer - when you drop a bit of the syrup into cold water, it will solidify into threads that, when removed from the water, are flexible, not brittle. The toffee strands will bend slightly before breaking.
• Once this stage is reached (about 10 minutes maximum) pour the toffee into the prepared tin and leave to cool.
• Once the toffee is cold remove it from the tin and break with a toffee hammer or solid sharp object, and the toffee will crack into pieces.
• Store in an airtight tin if you can resist it long enough!

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Gettysburg Battlefield Resort

New Faces at Gettysburg!

We'd like to welcome the following new employees to our team! If you see them around the resort feel free to introduce yourself.

Debra Witmer – General Store staff

Michael Nett – General Store staff

Greg Hamilton – Resort Services staff

New Name, Same Great Food

What was once the Gettysburg Snack Bar is now, Jr.'s Café. The name has changed, but the same great food so many people have come to love still remains the same. Why the name change? It is simple, the resort decided to lease the facility. So, Dave and Tina have personally taken over and are ready to continue serving their great food. While some people have already met the pair, there are others who haven't. Dave has been the manager for the former GBR snack bar for the past 6 years. He was a chef for over 30 years in the York County Area. Tina has been in the restaurant business for 15 years. Together with their experience they make a great team.

ALL of the food is homemade, anything from hot apple sundaes to freshly made pizzas. The menu consists of over 60 items ranging from BBQ Pork Sandwiches made with specialty BBQ Sauce, that even the south can't touch, homemade cole slaw and shrimp, to the pancakes for breakfast.

Jr.'s Café has the right food for the right price. If it can satisfy a bottomless pit like Gettysburg's Resort Manager, Richard Kellermann, then it can definitely satisfy you. Plus, if you have a family picnic or reunion, graduation party, wedding party, or any event here at the resort Jr.'s has you covered, so please ask them for their 'Party Menu' and pricing.

So, stop in, grab a seat and enjoy a great meal at Jr.'s Café and remember to say hi to Dave, Tina, and crew. Jr.'s is open late Friday's & Saturday's until 9 p.m. so don't waste any more time. Come and let them do the cooking for you or have them deliver to your site.

» See the Full List of Gettysburg Battlefield Resort Activities

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Sycamore Lodge

PICTURES AND VIDEOS OF PAST EVENTS

You saw the photos last month; now relive the fun with videos and more pics!

Chocoholic Weekend

Chocolate Pie Eating Contest (WATCH).

Chocolate Slip N Slide (WATCH).

4th of July

4th of July Cart Parade (WATCH).

Have a groovy 4th of July

WATERMELON SOCIAL

JUMPY CASTLE!

» See the Full list of Sycamore Lodge Activities

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Contact Us

RESERVATIONS NUMBERS:

Reservations System Questions:
800-843-0445 Mon - Sat 9 AM - 9 PM EST

Gettysburg Reservations:
888-568-7641

Sycamore Lodge Reservations:
800-370-1645 Ext. 1412

Resort Reservations Hours of Operation:
Sun-Sat, 9 AM - 5 PM EST

Or visit: www.travelresorts.com

Maintenance fees may be increased by the percentage of incresase, if any, in the Consumer Price Index (1967's 100) specified for "All Items"for "All Urban Consumers, south Region" which is published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the U.S. Department of Labor. All resorts must rely on membership fees to maintain and operate their facilities. This is the same with Travel Resorts.

www.travelresorts.com or call 800-318-2945

340 Commerce Avenue
Suite 20
Southern Pines, NC 28374
1-888-417-0297

Visit Travel Resorts at www.TravelResorts.com

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