Welcome to the NEW online version of the Traveler.  Here you will find the information you are used to finding in the printed version, including updates from your Owners' Associations, information about our Resorts and a link to the Branson Entertainment Schedule.  You can easily navigate this information by simply clicking on the page numbers across the top or the arrows on the right and left of each article. 

As you will see, there is plenty to do during the Summer and Fall in all three Grand Crowne Resorts destinations!  We look forward to seeing you on your next vacation!

The moment Owners and guests arrived at the Towne Center they could hear the trains pulling into the station. The Towne Center was transformed into a New York style “Grand Crowne Station” as real train whistles programmed from the nostalgic era of train transportation played in the background. Attendees were greeted at a busy newsstand showcasing past and present Traveler Magazines as well as the latest edition of “The Traveler Today” proxy.

Directly inside, a café counter was stationed where Owners and guests could sample and comment on a collection of Heroes coffee, Black Satin was the favorite. The entire lobby of the Towne Center was decorated in train station décor, including a golden rendition of a famous station clock, 12 foot high train engines, an old fashioned chalk board with the weekly departure and arrival times for meetings and events and, of course, a front desk staff fully dressed in train station attire to welcome Owners and guests. The front desk staff stood ready to check them in to enjoy a week of fun and excitement on the Eastern Railroads VIP Excursion as we visited select cities east of the Mississippi.

Leaving the hustle and bustle of New York City, on Monday evening, our railroad excursion led us straight to the gracious, southern hospitality of Louisville, Kentucky and the home of the first night’s “Grand Crowne Derby Night.” Ladies and even a few gentlemen arrived in elegant and elaborate hats. Prizes were awarded for the most elegant, elaborate and traditional hats.

Upon their arrival, jockeys in full color presented each guest with their racing form and bet tickets for the exciting scheduled races projected on 3 huge screen areas throughout the night. Guests toasted with the traditional silver-cupped Mint Julep and dined on a traditional Kentucky Derby menu. The dessert was presented within a traditional horseshoe design and rose-topped cupcakes represented our night’s “tournament of roses.”

After dinner guests were introduced to the winner of our 2011 Grand Crowne Resorts Mascot competition, Scruffy Campbell, an adorable dog of Grand Crowne Resorts Owners’ Gene and Carolyn of Carthage, Texas. Owners and guests then decided on their final bets for each race while our jockeys scurried around the room to pick up the betting slips before each race. With the traditional trumpet ablaze we then called attention to the big screens for the exciting run of each official race. After each race, winners’ tickets were entered into a drawing where up to five winners were picked for special prizes. This night was a fun-filled unique night for all attendees and everyone really was to stand in the winner’s circle as it was a night to remember.

While onboard the train in executive suites throughout Tuesday, the important Annual Association Meetings were held to present the latest updates on our Owners’ resorts. Here the Executive Team responded to all Owners’ questions and inquiries. Meanwhile this day’s train ride slowly moved us across the country to the beautiful hills in Ozark Country. We arrived in Pigeon Forge where we pulled into the station and turned into “Super Sleuths” for a dinner theater production at the famous Circle B Ranch. Good ole’ boy country food and a mystery show kept us on our toes throughout the evening.

On Wednesday we set up informative sessions in club cars throughout the train. Key Directors and Managers staged information sessions throughout the day. It was an Owner’s learning day designed to provide Owners every access to utilizing their ownership to the maximum. Before we knew it the sun was setting and we had traveled north to Detroit City and the home of the “Motown” sound.

Back to the 60’s and 70’s with a set-design to capture the past “Soul Train” dance show, we had our TV cameras focused on our dance floor with our DJ offering Owners and guests an opportunity to dance the night away or karaoke a tune of their own. As guests arrived, they received famous Motown CD’s and for a highlight – live entertainment by the famous Drifters who came to sing the favorites associated with this era. For a final touch to our old fashioned dinner menu, root beer and orange soda floats seemed to make this a really smooth, cool event.

On Thursday we again presented a variety of hands-on experiences for updates and learning for our Owners during the day. We followed the variety theme right into the evening as we pulled into Atlantic City where there was something for everyone on the night’s agenda.

Our Atlantic City boardwalk featured a variety of games with prizes. Everyone could sign up for shows in the Diamond Showcase Theater featuring our famous “Buddy Holly” and in the Show Lounge for entertainment by the Branson “Rat Pack”. A special Boardwalk Casino complete with poker, craps and slots was offered to those feeling lucky and helped make this night our busiest and most exciting night yet. Owners and guests moved all through the Majestic on two floors. “Eat, Drink, Play and be totally entertained with variety” was the theme. The variety of food was in abundance too with a pizza parlor, Philly beef station, sausage on a stick, hot dogs, popcorn, cotton candy, salt water taffy, fudge and more.

After the late night departure from Atlantic City, we kept a slightly smaller program for presentations to the Owners during the day on Friday. We wanted to give Owners plenty of time to get ready for when we rolled into Washington D.C., as this was the evening we would be under strict security watch. We headed for this year’s elegant finale, our rendition of a Presidential State Dinner where our very own Association Ambassadors greeted all Owners and guests immediately following our cocktail hour complete with the sounds of a jazz group.

When the doors opened for dinner you knew you had arrived. A magnificent Presidential Seal greeted you from above hung between our elaborate crystal chandeliers. All the windows sparkled with rich gold lame draperies (made complimentary by Grand Crowne Resorts’ Owner, Sharon Koehler). Placed in front of one of the gold lame draped window, sat a full-sized self-playing grand piano which romantically played as guests were being greeted and seated.

Owners and guests sat at tables adorned with silver and gold flatware, gold chargers and silver and crystal centerpieces with sparkling red and crystal jewels, surrounded by chairs covered in elegant white fabric with red tucked chair ties. Each lady had a gift of a silver and red glass rose in a lovely gift box waiting for them at their place setting. Pre-set salads with all accompaniments invited dinner to begin.

The spotlight moved from the grand piano to the middle of the room where a harpist played dinner music while guests dined on a lavish buffet and as desserts of chocolate and strawberry mousse in martini glasses were being served with full coffee service. The doors opened and “Top Secret” security staff escorted our evening entertainment of “President of the World” Bill Clinton impersonator, Dale Leigh. After his fun closing act, guests gathered to have photos taken with him. Once again Owners and Guests departed saying it was a most wonderful week and that it will be hard to out do ourselves again next year. But, we will!

During Owners' Week, in addition to the informative Annual Meetings held on Tuesday, March 1, 2011, Owners had the opportunity to attend an Owners' Workshop offered on Wednesday, March 2nd and an Elite Owners’ Meeting on Thursday, March 3rd. These additional meetings were offered to Owners with their interests in mind.

The Owners' Workshop started off with an overview of the Grand Crowne Resorts’ website highlighting user account set up and log in with navigation to key points of interest. From there Owners received a tour through the Points Program manual that was distributed containing valuable information in utilizing their ownership. The meeting concluded with a question and answer session where Owners had the opportunity to get inquiries addressed face to face with key directors and managers.

At the Elite Owners’ Meeting there was a variety of ideas and questions that were shared. Again, key staff members were there to aid with specific and general topics. In conclusion of this meeting, the idea of forming an Elite Owners’ Committee came about. After the group’s discussion, the nomination of Steve Beckler taking the lead for this committee was confirmed. Steve has offered his contact information to be posted on the Grand Crowne Resorts’ website for Owners to contact him with questions, suggestions, or ideas and to collect names of those interested in being part of the committee.

Grand Crowne Resorts’ management team continues to seek ways to assist our Owners with their need for information and understanding, and most of all, an enjoyable vacation ownership experience. It is our commitment that Owners' Week meetings are helpful, informative and allow additional opportunities for us to serve you, our Owners.

Look for Steve Beckler and other OA committee members’ contact information on the Resort Directory page of this issue or at GrandCrowneResorts.com.

Lee and Geri Doss became Owners with Grand Crowne back in the early 90’s.  Lee Doss had made the comment, “Before there was a building at Grand Crowne we purchased.”  Their very first purchase was for an every other year stay.  Their stays here had always been so enjoyable that they upgraded to annual and presently are Elite Owners with us.

The Doss’ enjoy doing many things in the Branson area and when asked what their favorite thing to do is, they say “it’s to visit with everyone, from staff to other Owners.”  Another favorite thing to do is attend the resort events.  Lee stated that even when they are staying somewhere else in town “nobody compares to Grand Crowne.  No matter what level of management, from the CEO to the housekeepers, ya’ll have the same goal; to make our vacation the best it can be.  Each and every person goes above and beyond to make that a reality.”

Lee and Geri attend the annual Owners’ Week in March each year.  They feel it’s like a big family reunion.  Owners’ Week is one of the biggest times when many of the Owners come to the resort at the same time to reunite with other families.  Lee and Geri, being a part of the huge family, always enjoy seeing some of their wonderful friends they have made over the years and to party, party, party!  “We just love coming here!  It’s kind of sad when we have to go to our other home, but we just can’t wait to come back,” says Geri.

During each year Grand Crowne Resorts’ Operations Management Team hosts meetings with each Owners’ Association Quality Assurance Committee Team here in Branson. These committee members are Owners that graciously donate their time to their home resorts in efforts for us to better serve our guests and Owners. Projects, plans and ideas are shared at these meetings as each year we work day-to-day striving for customer satisfaction.

In addition to the Annual Association Meetings, the Traveler Magazine, eUpdates and the Grand Crowne Resorts’ website, your management team and the committee team are here to keep the lines of communications open in regards to the progress and growth of each resort.

The Quality Assurance Committee Team members have kindly offered their contact information to be published in each Traveler on the Resort Directory page. In closing, we want to personally thank each of them for sharing their passion, pride and commitment to their “home away from home” with us as we look forward to another grand year!

This past winter’s weather was somewhat harsh with heavy rain, ice and snow.  Grounds and construction teams have been hard at work washing, painting and repairing building exteriors and roofs, in addition to getting the fountain flowing again at Carriage Place.  Inside maintenance and housekeeping deep cleans were taking place – painting, repairing, or replacing things in your units such as kitchen cabinets, windows, blinds, mattresses, TVs, flooring, house wares and linens.

Also during this past season, while the winds were strong, so was the focus of your management team.  Additional improvements were being made to better serve you with training of staff, upgrading and standardizing processes, along with the creation and improvements of operation manuals.  Things like uniforms and name tags, towel exchange and midweek cleans, PBX operator addition and check-in techniques and rental program and marketing improvements were also part of the efforts of this passionate team.

Spring is here but the change in season hardly guarantees any warm weather.  We hope this year will be better than last year; it was hot!  We were very pleased in our Owners’ Meetings to share with all of you many of our accomplishments.  We are looking forward to our next Owners’ Meetings to share much more.

As Owners and guests arrived in March for Owners’ Week some new luggage carts were in place along with some new entrance mats, property signage, smoker’s urns, fresh tile in elevators, and a grand new flag at Grand Crowne Resort.  Indoors, the recently resurfaced and painted spas welcomed Owners with improved, replaced pumps and jets.  In the Fitness Centers, movement had taken place with mirrors added to compliment the equipment area’s new layout.  Movement and activity also took place in the Hospitality room with it being remodeled and expanded in addition to the newest activities center located at the Grand Crowne Resort.

With a strong and talented team working for you each day, this Spring the grounds came alive with the colors of the season as new mulch was being placed, budding trees and bushes were groomed, and soon the sounds of mowing will fill the air in addition to the delightful scent of freshly cut grass.  While the outsides of your resorts are blooming, we will be installing fresh new carpet and padding on the insides.

As Summer becomes Fall, we will continue to make progress at your resorts.  A good variety of enhancements is planned, as shared at the Annual Owners’ Meetings.  We are working on a “greener” check-in packet, and with that, creating an in-unit guest directory; and yes, even the dish soap is being upgraded back to the favorite green Palmolive.  Plus, with families and children and little ones in mind, installation of baby changing stations in common area restrooms where needed; family activities with something for everyone including nature hikes and outdoor activities.  And as the colors change this Fall on the outside, we are planning some color changes for the inside of the Owners’ Lounge at Carriage Place with a remodeling project.

Your properties at Crowne View Estates on Indian Point, Lodges at Crowne View and Crowne View Heights received a grand addition last August with the completion and official opening of the beautiful outdoor large L-shaped pool with red and blue tube slides, an oversized bubbling hot tub spa and kiddie pool with a bright white and yellow showering mushroom.  This year is sure to be filled with more splish-splashing fun as the full summer season opens this Memorial Day, running through Labor Day.  The new fenced pool patio area, complimented with patio tables, chairs and umbrellas is sure to be even more delightful with the completion and grand opening of the clubhouse this year.  The clubhouse, decorated with welcoming awnings and fresh new sidewalks, invites Owners and guests into a lodge-type area keeping that themed nature loving feeling.

Inside you’ll find ladies and gents restrooms with changing areas and lockers to use while you utilize the brand new fitness room.  You’ll be able to go in, relax and rejuvenate; sit at a table, watch the flat-screen TV, enjoy a refreshing beverage and something to eat at the lodge counter bar and grill!  Have a snack or lunch with the family.  Additionally, we have a front desk area inside the clubhouse.  This on-site check-in is planned to begin this June and will be a 24-hour all year round front desk.  Owners and guests will enjoy being able to check in right on property and get their vacation started right away!

Taking you over the Ozark hills to the east to The Lodges at The Great Smoky Mountains in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, you’ll see the construction progress being made.  Cabin number two, a 2-level lodge with two 1-bedrooms and two 2-bedroom lock-offs.  This second cabin is framed, roofed and sided awaiting interior completion to house occupants sometime this season.  Cabin 3’s footers and foundations are complete.  The framing commenced in March on this 3-level cabin which will house three 2-bedroom and three 1-bedroom units and it shouldn’t be much longer until it also is complete and ready for occupancy.

Grand Crowne Resorts’ Biloxi, Mississippi property, Ocean View Vacation Villas continues to be a highly desired place for our Owners to vacation.  It has been running at full occupancy levels since September of last year.  We are excited about the wave of interest at this property and appreciate your understanding and patience while this property gets rolling.

Grand Crowne Resorts has experienced much growth and change over this past year and it will continue as we move through this year.  Our every desire is for you to continue to enjoy your home resort and notice the pride, passion, and commitment we have for you to ”Experience the Difference” for many years to come!

                        Smith Toussaint, Vice President of Business Operations

                        Robin Neal, Executive Assistant to VP of Business Operations

                        Lorraine Bridgewater, Administrative Assistant

                        And our newest team member, William Murphy, Director of Resort Operations

Grand Crowne does its best to keep our Owners notified of current scams that have been brought to our attention, because we want to insure that you are aware of the situation.

If a company calls you claiming to be Grand Crowne Resorts and stating they can assist you to sell your timeshare where you can make a profit, do not give them any information or money.  Grand Crowne Resorts is NOT affiliated with any company that solicits our own Owners to sell their timeshare. 

This is a scam.  As an Owner of timeshare, your information is a matter of public record with the county in which you purchased your timeshare.  Anyone can review this information and attempt to perpetrate a scam.  Do not give these individuals any information or money. 

Our Owner Services department will ask Owners questions that only the Owner should know to make sure they are speaking with the Owner on the contract.

His & Hers, Theirs & Ours, Cruise Alaska out of Seattle

Carnival Spirit 7-night out of Seattle   departing September 6, 2011.  Enjoy the spirit of our Grand Crowne Owners and bring back memories that will last a lifetime.  Round Trip Seattle visiting Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan and Victoria.  It spends a day sailing through Tracy Arm Fjord.  Just a few of the highlights:  A taste of Juneau, dog sledding on the Mondenhall Glacier, Bering Sea crab fisherman's feed, canopy adventure and wildlife expedition, White Pass and Yukon Railway, best of Skagway, enchanting Butchart Gardens, secret garden and city lights, Eagle Preserve wildlife adventure and steam train adventure in Skagway.  Prices for an inside cabin start at $420 pp, other cabins available on request.  Port fees and taxes start at $331.09 pp.  Space is limited so call Grand Crowne Travel today for all the details at 800-662-9824.

Welcome to your Not-So-Humble-But-Completely-Mind-Blowing-Home

Carnival Freedom 8-night out of Fort Lauderdale  departing January 14, 2012.  Your chance to see the Panama Canal and Limon, Costa Rica and Cozumel.  You can kayak the Panama Canal and do a grand tour of the Canal.  Enjoy a seaside theater watching movies under the stars and a sliding sky dome.  Enjoy the nature and traditions at Bocuare Haven Sloth Sanctuary in Costa Rica and in Cozumel the Mayan Ruins and some of the best shopping in the Caribbean.  Many adventures to choose from.  This includes a $50.00 onboard credit to use as you wish on the ship and enjoy an additional $50.00 off your price if you have cruised with us before!  Inside cabin starts at $410.00 per person, oceanview $540.00 per person and balcony $710.00 per person.  Port fees and taxes start at $234.66 per person.  Handicapped cabins are available for special needs.  Carnival has been voted number 1 for stage shows and entertainment at sea.  Carnival is also known for having some of the larger staterooms at sea.  Please call for additional details and deposits to hold your space and become a part of the Grand Crowne Cruise family! Call today at 800-662-9824

Mt. Rushmore, Grand Tetons and Yellowstone!

8-Day Escorted Tour from $995* per person.  Itinerary:

• Day 1 - Rapid City, South Dakota See some of America's grandest sights!  Your western adventure begins in Rapid City, South Dakota.  Transfer from the Rapid City Airport by hotel courtesy shuttle to your centrally located hotel for a two night stay.  Rooms are available for check-in after 3:00 p.m.  Join Caravan for an 8:00 p.m. welcome briefing.
• Day 2 - Crazy Horse, Mt. Rushmore Enjoy a morning visit to Crazy Horse Memorial.  Started over 50 years ago, and still under construction, the memorial is the world's largest sculpture in progress.  Chief Standing Bear told the sculptor, Korczak Ziolkowski, "My fellow chiefs and I would like the white man to know the red man has great heroes, too."  The monument is a tribute to the Sioux Lakota Indian leader known as Crazy Horse.  Here, Indian artisans showcase their arts and crafts and visit with guests.  Visit the Indian Museum of North America.  Next, drive to Mt. Rushmore National Monument and the sculpted faces of Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Teddy Roosevelt and Lincoln.  Return through the Black Hills to Rapid City.  Free time to explore the historic district and stroll the Presidential Walk with life-sized statues of American Presidents.  Breakfast included.
  
  
• Day 3 - Little Big Horn, Montana Enter the range lands and oil fields of Wyoming and head west across the high plains.  Visit the old western cowboy town of Sheridan.  Enjoy lunch.  Next, enter Montana, "Big Sky Country."  Visit Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument in the Crow Nation.  Here, in 1876, in the Valley of Little Big Horn, combined Sioux and Northern Cheyenne forces led by Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse overwhelmed General Custer and his calvary.  Continue to Billings, nestled between the Yellowstone River and the red Rimrocks.  Explorers Lewis & Clark camped near here in 1806.  Breakfast and lunch included.
  
  
• Day 4 - Cody, Wyoming, Yellowstone Journey through the wide-open spaces of Montana today en route to Cody, Wyoming.  Visit the world-famous Buffalo Bill Historical Center known for its wild west exhibits.  See the Plains Indian Museum and the Whitney Gallery of Western Art, with paintings and sculptures by revered artists such as Frederic Remington and Charles Russell.  This afternoon cross the Continental Divide and enter Yellowstone Park for a relaxing two night stay at your lodge, Old Faithful Inn.  Old Faithful Geyser shoots thousands of gallons of steaming water into the air.  Elevation at Old Faithful is approximately 7,300 feet.  Breakfast included.
  
  
• Day 5 - Yellowstone, Mammoth Springs Today enjoy a full day complete circle tour of Yellowstone Park.  Established in 1872, Yellowstone became the first national park in the world.  Now over 90 countries have national parks.  This 2,291,766 acre park contains almost 300 geysers and over 10,000 hot springs, fumaroles and mud pots.  Look for moose, elk and bison.  You will visit the major attractions of both Yellowstone's upper and lower loops.  On the upper loop, you will see Norris Geyser Basin and visit Mammoth Hot Springs.  Walk on the raised platforms above the unique terraced pools.  Mammoth Hot Springs is one of the best areas in the park for close-up viewing of elk or bison.  On the lower loop you will see Yellowstone Lake and visit Yellowstone's Grand Canyon, where you can marvel at the rushing waters of Yellowstone Falls, twice the height of Niagara Falls.  Return to Old Faithful Inn.  Breakfast included.
  
  
• Day 6 - Grand Tetons, Jackson This morning enter Grand Teton National Park.  See the jagged, soaring Teton Range with peaks over 12,000 feet.  Scenes from the movie "Shane" were filmed here.  Stop at pristine Jenny Lake.  Then, enjoy a picnic lunch near the banks of the Snake River.  Weather and river conditions permitting, an unforgettable float trip awaits you on the majestic Snake River.  Wildlife viewing opportunities abound as you float through the park.  Watch for waterfowl, beaver, osprey and eagles.  Then, to Jackson.  Free time to explore the charming downtown.  Stroll the art galleries and western shops.  See the Antler Arch at the entrance to historic Jackson town square.  You may wish to visit the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, with bar stools made from horse saddles.  Enjoy dinner.  Elevation in Jackson is approximately 6,300 feet.  Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
  
  
• Day 7 - Tetons, Oregon Trail, Idaho Drive south through the Bridger-Teton National Forest this morning.  Enter Idaho and cross the route of the original "Oregon Trail."  Photo stop at beautiful Bear Lake.  Continue via Logan Canyon to Salt Lake City, Utah, the state capital.  Afternoon visit to Temple Square with its spacious gardens and fountains.  See the Mormon Tabernacle, home to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (unless closed to the public due to a religious ceremony).  Enjoy a farewell dinner.  Breakfast and dinner included. 
  
  
• Day 8 - Salt Lake City, Utah Your tour ends after breakfast at your hotel in Salt Lake City.  Breakfast included.
  
  

Departure dates May 25 through Sept. 25, 2011.  Double room, super value $995 pp, great value $1,095 pp.  Triple room, super value $975 pp, great value $1,075 pp.  Single room, super value $1,455 pp, great value $1,555 pp.  Plus taxes and fees:  double $179, triple $167 and single $219.  Airfare is not included.  Call Sandy to book today at 800-662-9824!

New England Summer and Fall Foliage!

8-Day Tour from $995 per person.

• Day 1 - Boston, Massachusetts Visit all six New England states!  Your vacation begins in Boston, the "Cradle of Liberty."  Transfer from Boston's Logan Airport by hotel courtesy shuttle to your hotel.  Rooms are available for check-in after 3:00 p.m.  Join the host for an 8:00 p.m. welcome briefing.
• Day 2 - Plymouth Rock, Hyannis Stop this morning at Boston's Old North Church, where Paul Revere began his famous midnight ride.  Brief visit to Fanueil Hall Marketplace.  Drive by the State Capitol and the Boston Commons.  Continue to Lexington, where the Minutemen had their first Revolutionary skirmish.  See the Battle Green where "the shot heard around the world" signaled the start of the American Revolution.  Follow the route of Paul Revere from Lexington to Concord.  Stop at the Old North Bridge.  Then, head south and stop at Plymouth Rock, where pilgrims from the Mayflower landed in 1620.  Next, to Cape Cod's southern shore for a two night stay at your resort in the popular vacation community of Hyannis.  Hyannis was the site of President John F. Kennedy's summer White House.  Enjoy dinner.  Breakfast and dinner included.
• Day 3 - Martha's Vineyard Morning ferry from Woods Hole across the bay to Martha's Vineyard, named for a European sailor's daughter, Martha, who found wild grapes growing on the island.  The island is a have for artists, poets, singers and celebrities who are attracted to its laid-back, charming lifestyle.  Here, enjoy an island tour of sweeping vistas.  See Oak Bluffs and Vineyard Haven.  Visit the historic whaling town of Edgartown with its narrow streets and elegant homes.  Enjoy leisure time to wander, shop and visit the art galleries.  Return by ferry to Cape Cod.  Breakfast included.
• Day 4 - Rhode Island, Connecticut Journey this morning to the sailing capital of the world, Newport, Rhode Island.  Visit the historic Vanderbilt "summer cottage," The Breakers.  This Italian Renaissance style palace has 70 rooms and is the grandest of all Newport estates.  Then, on a sightseeing drive of Newport, see the mansions of the "400 Club" and St. Mary's Church, where Jacqueline Bouvier married John F. Kennedy.  Continue to the seaport of Mystic, Connecticut.  Visit Mystic Seaport, the nation's leading maritime museum, dedicated to the golden age of seafaring.  View impressive tall ships.  Breakfast included.
• Day 5 - Norman Rockwell, Vermont This morning, into the beautiful Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts, where Norman Rockwell spent the last 25 years of his life.  Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum.  Admire the collection of Rockwell's Saturday Evening Post covers which extol the virtues of everyday Americans.  Visit Rockwell's studio, preserved exactly as it was when Rockwell painted here.  Then, overnight in the Green Mountains of Vermont.  Breakfast included.
• Day 6 - Vermont, New Hampshire A scenic mountain drive this morning along country roads to Plymouth Notch, birthplace of President Calvin Coolidge.  See the home where our 30th President took the oath of office from his father, by the light of a kerosene lamp.  The village of Plymouth Notch is unchanged since the early 20th century.  Your next stop is the village of Woodstock, described as "the prettiest small town in America".  Photo stop at a covered bridge.  Next, through the White Mountains of New Hampshire to Franconia Notch.  Then, follow the Kancamagus Highway to your hotel in North Conway.  Enjoy dinner.  Breakfast and dinner included.
• Day 7 - Portland, Maine This morning, travel past Maine's lakes to Portland on the rocky Atlantic coast.  Visit Portland's waterfront.  Continue to the resort of Kennebunkport.  Free time to explore this quaint small town.  Tonight enjoy a farewell Maine lobster dinner.

Departure Dates May 31 through Oct. 23, 2011.  Double room, super value $995 pp, great value $1,095 pp, special value $1,195 pp.  Triple room, super value $975 pp, great value $1,075 pp, special value $1,175 pp.  Single room, super value $1,475 pp, great value $1,575 pp, special value $1,675 pp.  Port taxes and fees:  double $149, triple $137, single $189.  Airfare is not included.  Call Sandy to book today at 800-662-9824!

As of January 1, 2011, please remember that your timeshare can only be affiliated with one Exchange Company.  The majority of our Owners are with Interval International; however, if you wish to do an exchange with RCI, Grand Crowne Resorts can fulfill this request but it will require a $250.00 fee for this type of transaction.  Due to the limited inventory at our resorts affiliated with RCI, it makes it difficult for Grand Crowne Resorts to fulfill these requests.  In order to fulfill this type of request, we have to take inventory from our weeks Owners (thus the $250.00 fee) to convert to points for the Interval Points Owners.  For any questions regarding this matter, please don’t hesitate to contact our Owner Services department toll free, Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. CST at 1-866-894-9700.

Living “Green” is one thing, working “Green” is another . . . but TEACHING GREEN?? Grand Crowne Resorts, along with Staples Advantage, hosted a Sustainability Seminar on April 15th for area businesses. At the seminar Ken Perdue, the Regional Environmental Initiative Manager with Staples Advantage out of Kansas City, discussed how companies and organizations can begin a path to sustainability.

Sustainability is “the capacity to endure”. In an environmental business sense, this refers to the maximizing of your natural and allotted resources to produce the greatest output and least waste. Showing businesses how to use less paper and save on energy costs, the basics of office recycling, and other tips and tricks were shared by the speakers and vendors. Many community and area businesses received invitations and a general invitation was issued to all resort guests.

Multiple vendors offered samplings of resource-saving items. Food and prizes were also part of this exciting event. A raffle was held for a weekend stay at Grand Crowne Resorts as the very “Grand Prize”.

Grand Crowne Resorts’ Team Greenovation is proud to continue to spread the knowledge of how to be kinder to the Earth and save money in the work day environment. Reaching out to the local community with helpful economic and environmental information accomplishes a long-standing goal of Team Greenovation and Grand Crowne Resorts.

Just when you thought the new Referral Program couldn’t get any more exciting, it has!

COMING TO A COMPUTER NEAR YOU THIS SUMMER . . .

Check the status of your referrals online!  In a world that’s “going green” it doesn’t only have to be for the better of the environment.  By using the upcoming online referral system, it will be more convenient and you will get faster, more accurate information! 

We appreciate your business and strive to keep you updated on the friends and family that you refer to Grand Crowne Resorts.  The new online referral system will enable you to have access to the status of your referrals day or night.  View your personal referral page to see when one of your referrals has completed a property tour and if they have chosen to become part of the Grand Crowne Resorts family.  By participating in this new online referral system, not only will you be able to view this information anytime but you will also receive emails notifying you of important occurrences in regards to your referrals, like when it is time to choose your referral reward! Easily keep track of how much you have earned by reviewing your emails or simply logging onto your personal referral page anytime.

TO GET STARTED:

Step 1: Sign up for an account at www.GrandCrowneResorts.com

Step 2: After clicking yes, I am an Owner, agree to receive information through theonline referral system

Step 3: In the upcoming months, you will receive an email with your personal referral web page information and instructions to begin using the new system.

If you already have an account on the Grand Crowne Resorts website, login to the Owners section of the website and update your account by agreeing to receive information through the online referral system. 

 If you have any questions about this exciting opportunity or for any of your referral needs, do not hesitate to call us at 1-800-727-2840, we are more than happy to assist you.

Remember, Great Referrals equal Great Rewards and it just became more convenient!

It’s a new season at the Grand Crowne Resorts’ Activities Centers . . . Look what we have to offer!

For you nature lovers, hiking in our beautiful Branson hills is always a great way to spend a tranquil and peaceful moment in time.  Explore the wooded scenery and wildlife as you walk along the Table Rock Lakeshore Trail. Along the way you will see breathtaking colors and vibrant leaves and have the opportunity to see the splendor of what the Ozarks has to offer!

If it’s special events you like, then come and party with us on Monday Nights!  Some of Branson’s finest entertainers will come and tease you while you enjoy our wonderful buffet meal!  On Tuesdays, make plans to bring the kids for Wii gaming at Carriage Place while you taste some of Missouri’s finest wines over at Grand Crowne.  Wednesdays are family night with Pizza and Bingo!  We offer a variety of pizzas and prizes including tickets to your favorite shows and attractions!

Each month there is always something fun going on at one of the Grand Crowne Resorts!  In June we celebrate Dear ole’ dad with a fishing tournament, games of horseshoes and some wonderful food from the grill.

In July come celebrate Independence Day in Grand Crowne Resorts fashion; good food, face-painting clowns, inflatable bouncers, cooling off on the water slide and dance or sing to karaoke.  Top the evening off as we light up the night sky with a fireworks display that’s sure to impress.

August is back to school time. We celebrate with your kids by throwing them a big splash bash!  Then September brings our Labor Day poolside celebration where we barbeque for you, offer fun, games and live entertainment.  Then come back in October dressed to win and visit our haunted trail just in time for Halloween.

If it’s crafts you like, just look at our selection and locations!  At Carriage Place we are offering everything from personalizing your own pillow case and making bath salts to creating a necklace out of rocks!  Over at Grand Crowne we are offering personalized umbrellas, soda tab bracelets and beaded key chains!  And remember to bring the kiddos down for their very own fun!  As we introduce the Kids Quest Club, we offer game night, that includes Wii, movies and popcorn with special crafts just for them.

The Grand Crowne Resorts’ Activities Centers are always growing and offering more for you and your family to create wonderful vacation memories . . . so come and spend some time with us!

Have a Suggestion?  Is there something you would like to see offered? Then shoot us an email at activities@grandcrowneresorts.com and while you’re here make sure to let us know what you think.

Summer in the Ozarks!  What a great time to bring the family and enjoy the beautiful outdoors.  Come, experience BRANSON – inside and out! 

From high above the trees on an adventurous zipline to way below the surface of the planet deep down in a cave; Branson has it all for you and your family to experience.  We have the scoop on all attractions and entertainment and we are here to help you choose what you like and not just what someone wants you to see!

ENTERTAINMENT AND ATTRACTIONS

As a kid you’re sure to have played “musical chairs”, well if you’ve ever been to Branson you know that we take it one step further!  Musical Theaters!  Yes, over the winter months some of the shows change locations and we’re here to help you keep up-to-date with where your favorite entertainer is performing in 2011. Most shows make major changes during the winter months in preparation for the new season so that their shows remain fresh and exciting.  New shows are added and there is a variety of what is called “limited engagement performances”.  These are selected dates for entertainers, maybe a one time only date, or an entire season.  With all this included you can be sure that there is still a variety of entertainment available in Branson every single day.

Get your scratch pad ready to take notes.  Some of the 2011 Entertainment and Attraction highlights are as follows:

• 3 Redneck Tenors bring Down Home Laughs and Big City Music to the Mansion Theatre
• Marty Haggard’s Tribute to his dad, Merle Haggard is performed at the Clay Cooper Theatre
• Grand Country Theater featuring the Grand Jubilee, Comedy Jamboree, New South Gospel and the Ozark Mountain Jubilee has been honored as Grand Crowne Resorts' Most Recommended Entertainment
• 2011 is Noah the Musical's final season in Branson.  Don't miss your opportunity to see this inspirational show!

NEW THIS YEAR!

• Todd Oliver and Friends. Nationally known comedian Todd Oliver will appear at the Jim Stafford Theatre.  Known for his amazing talking dogs, Irving, Lucy and Elvis, and hilarious comedy, he will also be joined by a “real” cast of characters like Pops, Miss Lilly, Joey, and the outstanding Smiling Eyes Band.  Another unique aspect, a picnic lunch, is included with the show ticket. Table seating for lunch is provided. “Doggie bags” are optional.
• Hooray for Hollywood.  Quoted as being Branson's most exciting new show for 2011! It's the all-singing, all-dancing Movie Musical featuring the most famous song and dance moments of the last 50 years of movie history, recreated live on stage at the Branson Variety Theater.

LIMITED ENGAGEMENTS

• Johnny Mathis Christmas Show – Nov. 18-19
• The Texas Tenors – Sept. 1 – Nov. 17
• Tim Conway & Friends – Oct. 21 & 22
• Righteous Brothers' Bill Medley – Sept. 1 – Oct. 24
• A Christmas Snow – Nov. 1 – Dec. 30
• Oak Ridge Boys – select dates in September, October and November
• Cirque Montage - May 22 – Aug. 21

BRANSON’S MOST RECOMMENDED ENTERTAINMENT

Whether you’ve seen these shows once or twenty times, they remain high on Branson guest’s list of exceptional entertainment!  Check these out for the first time or the 20th time.  Always a great show along with great memories!

• Acrobats of China
• Baldknobbers Jubilee Show
• Branson Variety Theater
• Clay Cooper Music Express
• Grand Country Theater
• Hamner Barber Variety Show
• Hughes Brothers Show
• Jim Stafford
• Kirby VanBurch
• Legend of KungFu
• Legends In Concert
• Liverpool Legends
• Moe Bandy
• Pierce Arrow
• Titanic Museum
• Three Redneck Tenors
• Yakov’s Dinner Adventure
• Yakov, Famous Russian Comedian

As we all know, sometimes entertainment schedules may change, so please give us a call to confirm performance dates and to get the best rates in town! Call 1-800-615-6511 ext. 8230 or go to www.grandcrowneresorts.com for additional information.

Whatever you do, let us help you have a great time in Branson!

For more than 50 years, live shows have been the staple of a vacation to Branson. Today with over 50 theaters and more than 100 shows, Branson is truly the live music show capital of the world! As one of Branson's largest ticket seller, Grand Crowne Resorts' buy tickets at discounted bulk prices, and passes the savings onto our Owner's and their guests.  Branson offers a variety of entertainment options for all visitors--check out the complete entertainment schedule here.

In August, Grand Crowne Resorts will have been in full operations in Biloxi for a year, and many of you, our Owners, have not yet had the opportunity to visit.  Maybe it’s because you don’t know what fun awaits you on the Mississippi Gulf Coast? Now is the time to check out what you’ve been missing!  While casinos are popular along Beach Boulevard, there is plenty more to keep visitors busy during the daylight hours.  From historical sites to water sports and sunbathing, you are sure to find something to spark your interest. 

Biloxi visitors often choose to spend the day soaking up the rays on one of the world’s longest man-made beaches.  Twenty-Six miles of soft white sand lines the Mississippi coast where beach vendors are numerous, offering rentals of all sorts including jet skis, sailboats, aqua cycles and beach chairs and umbrellas.  Guests can also take a short boat ride to Ship Island for a day full of sun bathing and swimming on the finest natural beaches on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Ship Island is also home to Fort Massachusetts, the beautifully preserved fort built from 1859 to 1866 and a setting for interesting Civil War tales.  Fort Massachusetts is not Biloxi’s only tie to the Civil War; Biloxi was the final home of Jefferson Davis, an American statesman and the President of the Confederacy.  American History buffs can tour Beauvoir, the Jefferson Davis house and Presidential Library, and explore the South’s Confederate heritage.  If space-exploration is more your interest, while in Biloxi you can take the short drive to visit the Stennis Space Center in Stennis, Mississippi.  It was there that launch vehicles used in the Apollo missions were tested and proven flight-worthy.

Shrimping is an essential part of the Mississippi Gulf Coast economy and history.  Many companies offer chartered shrimping trips, allowing sailors to experience all of the sights sounds and smells of this way of life.  You can also catch the beautiful sunset on the Gulf of Mexico from aboard one of these vessels.

After the sun has set, let the good times roll! Try your chances with lady luck at Grand Biloxi Casino, with 800 slot machines and 35 table games, it gives you more ways to win than you can imagine.  Poker fans will love their exclusive World Series of Poker video poker games, found only at Caesars casinos.

From advice on the best poker tables to the best place to catch the sun’s rays, let us help you plan your best Mississippi Gulf Coast vacation yet.  Call us at 1-866-368-6503 to make your date with lady luck!  Or refer your friends and family for their own trip, and when they win big, be sure to remind them that you helped them take that vacation to Biloxi!

While any time of year is a beautiful time to visit Pigeon Forge, Summer and Fall allow visitors to experience the Smoky Mountains during their peak and the fun and entertainment of shows and attractions in Pigeon Forge.  Adventure-seekers and leisurely sightseers can venture into the 6,000 foot peaks of the National Park for a day trip and retreat into town for an evening full of fun and laughter. 

The Pigeon River, controlled by the Pigeon River dam, flows from late Spring until the end of August through the Smoky Mountains and challenges experienced river rats and floating novices with rapids rated from I to IV.   Landlubbers can choose to trek the 11 mile drive through Cade’s Cove for a view of more than 10,000 species of plants and animals, including the famous black bear.  A visit mid-September through November will present even the most seasoned leaf-watcher with fall foliage colors they’ve never seen.

After a long day of fresh air and exploration, the best way to rejuvenate is with good food and plenty of laughter.  The “Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud and Stunt Show” pairs home-cookin’ with good-natured rivalry and plenty of comedy, entertaining audiences every night ‘til the end of the year.  You’ll even learn a little about the Appalachian heritage and see the largest moonshine still in the world while you’re there!

Let your Grand Crowne Resorts’ family help you plan your next vacation to the Smoky Mountains so you aren’t caught off the trail by a black bear (or worse!).  Or refer your friends and family to us and we’ll make sure they are taken care of, unless of course they are part of that pesky McCoy family, or was it the Hatfields?  Call us at 1-866-368-6503 to plan your next vacation and visit us at website for additional information about Big Creek Expeditions, the Smoky Mountains National Park, Cade’s Cove and the “Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud and Stunt Show”.

Big Creek Expeditions:

Big Creek Expeditions is a great way to start off your summer vacation with an outdoor adventure.  They are a local white water rafting company with experienced professional guides that offers group tours on the Pigeon River.  These unique tours can be coordinated to accommodate any skill level or experience and children are welcome from ages 3 and up to experience the Smoky Mountains from the water.  Trips are offered from March until November, depending on water levels and weather.

Floaters can choose from two different rafting tours.  The Upper Pigeon River tour presents 6 miles of continuous rapids, exciting drops and exhilarating views.  With more than 60 rapids including Class III and IV whitewater, even experienced rafters will feel the adrenaline rush.  For a more laid-back float, the Lower Pigeon River tour is more relaxing with Class I and II whitewater and provides plenty of time for swimming and playing in the river. 

Call us at 1-866-368-6503 so we can help you plan your Pigeon River adventure, or refer your friends and family for their own wet trek through the Smoky Mountains.

The Great Smoky Mountain National Park:

With over 8 million visitors per year, the Great Smoky Mountain National park is the most visited National Park in the United States.  This original homeland of the Cherokee Indians is a wealth of American history and is the most biologically diverse area in the world’s temperate zone.  More than 200 species of bird, 66 species of mammals, 50 species of fish, 80 species of reptiles and amphibians and thousands of plants call these 800 square miles home.  Nearly 17,000 total species have been documented in the park and scientists believe an additional 30,000 to 80,000 species may live there.

Elevations of the Park Range from 876 ft. to 6643 ft. with 16 mountains that range over 6000 feet.  Visitors can enjoy the more than 900 miles of trails and unpaved roads for hiking, driving, bicycling, camping, fishing, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, waterfall gazing and wildlife viewing.  Autumn is especially exciting in the Smoky Mountains.  More than 100 native trees and plants are the star of the show with incredibly vibrant fall foliage colors that peak from mid-September through November. 

Call us at 1-866-368-6503 and let us help you plan your mountain expedition or refer your friends and family for their own hike through America’s most popular National Park.

Cades Cove:

Since 1977, Cades Cove has been on the National Register of Historic places.  Located in an amazing valley with the Great Smoking Mountain National Park’s beautiful mountains surrounding each side, Cades Cove presents visitors with the opportunity to enjoy a glimpse of life in Appalachia during the 1800’s and 1900’s as well as the majestic beauty of the Smoky Mountains.  Drivers along the 11-mile one way loop through Cade’s Cove can stop to enjoy hiking, horseback riding, picnicking and wildlife watching as well as visit numerous historic buildings including churches, schools, homes and barns.  Some lucky visitors may even see black bears, elk, deer and wild turkey.

Call us at 1-866-368-6503 to plan your trip through Appalachian history or

refer your Friends and Family for their own journey down American memory lane.

Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Show

If your family enjoys a comedic approach to American History, they will love the “Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud and Stunt Show” in Pigeon Forge.  Based on one of America’s most famous family feuds, this show pairs good natured rivalry, comical stunts, side splitting laughter and audience participation with the home-style cooking you love and a lesson on American history.  The Pigeon Forge area is rich with Appalachian heritage and family clans, like the Hatfields and McCoys were a way of life during the civil war.

Visitors to Pigeon Forge can catch the “Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud and Stunt Show” nightly through December 31, 2011 at the Black Bear Jamboree Theater on the Parkway in Pigeon Forge.  While you’re at the theater, be sure to check out the largest Moonshine Still in the world and enjoy the interactive learning center  that highlights the history of the mountain people, interjected with lots of humor.

Call us at 1-866-368-6503 to plan your next vacation and for ring-side seats to this family feud or refer your friends and family so they can enjoy this glimpse into life in the mountains!

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