TrailBlazer Magazine - August 2012

AUGUST 2012 n $2.00 www.trailblazermagazine.net

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Taste of Europe in the U.S.

Eight Great “European” Destinations This Side of the Atlantic

ROAD TRIP: ALASKAN HIGHWAY A TRUE TRAILBLAZER: GLOBAL NOBLE PART 5 ASK RV BILL

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AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER CIRCLE NO. 129 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

VOL. 34 n ISSUE 7

AUGUST2012 CONTENTS Message from Tom

The Camper’s Kitchen

28 LITTLE EUROPE

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Tech Topics 11 TrailMix 12

Photo courtesy Frankenmuth Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau

Activities & Events

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Spotlight: Stargazing 23 A True TrailBlazer: Global Noble, Part 5

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Features: A Taste of Europe in the US

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Road Trip: Alaskan Highway

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Ask RV Bill 40 Member Deals 42 Club Calendar 49 No need to pack a passport or learn a new language, just plan a visit to these eight charming cities to experience a taste of Europe stateside!

Advertiser Index 50 Crossword & Sudoku Puzzles

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On the Market 51 News & Notes 51 Preserve Services Directory

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Winding Roads 60 Marketplace 63 63

On Location 66

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Photo by Carmen Williams Photography

Classified Advertising

36 ALASKAN HIGHWAY

Enjoy a roadtrip on the fabled Alaska Highway where you’ll see wildlife, wilderness and plenty of WOW! Cover - Row of shops, Solvang, CA Photo courtesy SolvangUSA.com

AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

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Receive a $25 American Express Gift Card when your referral purchases a Zone Camping Pass.

Your referral also enters you into our 2012 drawing for a chance to win these great prizes.

Grand Prize 7 Night Cruise or Trip to Hawaii (a $4,000 value)

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Contact Us Today!

1.888.808.8925

www.zonecampingpass.com/referthezone Details and qualifications for participation in this promotion may apply and are set forth on page 62 of this magazine.

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AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

MESSAGE FROM TOM

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all it a milestone, call it an anniversary, call it habit. Whatever term you choose, many of you can stake claim to a significant relationship with Thousand Trails.

Recognizing a milestone can be a way of saying thank you, you’re appreciated, it’s been an honor, you made it! To that end, we’d like to recognize our member base and say thanks for being part of the family for so long.

We have designed anniversary pins for our members who have reached 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 years of membership with Thousand Trails. If you have reached one of these anniversaries with us, you will be receiving a letter within the next few weeks with instructions on how to claim your pin.

Aside from the pin, I’d like to recognize all of our members, from the longest member to the newbie who’s taking their “first camping steps” with us this year. We are so glad that you’ve decided to make Thousand Trails your camping choice. We look forward to continuing the relationships we’ve created and welcoming new ones into the fold.

started and we know you’ll like the gear. In fact, thanks to those of you who voted on our Facebook page.

The design chosen for the sweatshirt was a result of your votes.

Keep watching the store because there’s a lot more coming your way!

Lastly, the picture accompanying this month’s message was taken at our O’Connell’s Jellystone Campground in Amboy, Illinois. The staff of our corporate office spent the day living the camping lifestyle - and I can safely say, we thoroughly enjoyed it!

To our members, Thousand Trails is more than a place to park your rig or put up your tent. It is a home away from home. That is obvious to me when I visit the campgrounds and see the relationships that have been formed, the extended families that have been created.

It is a habit that sticks and that sense of community and family is what makes time fly. Doesn’t it seem like only yesterday that you first introduced yourselves to the family at the next site...and now 10, 15, even 30 years later you’re all still meeting up to share the experience.

So wear your pins proudly and for the newbies, prepare a space to display them… before you know it you’ll have gathered quite a few!

We hope you’ve had a chance to go online and check out the Thousand Trails gear available.

We think we’ve got a good variety to get you

AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

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Mission Statement TrailBlazer provides exclusive news and information for the members and guests of Equity LifeStyle Properties Family of Resorts.

Each issue enhances the recreational lifestyle of its readers through a lively mix of camping and travel features, resort profiles and product features. www.trailblazermagazine.net

EDITOR Joan DeAno Rykal TBeditor@equitylifestyle.com

ADVERTISING SALES 877-252-9320 TBads@equitylifestyle.com TRAILBLAZER (ISSN 0747-2293) is published monthly except bimonthly Nov./Dec. and Jan./ Feb. by MHCTT Memberships, LP, c/o Equity LifeStyle Properties, Inc., Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606. An annual subscription is $20. Periodicals postage paid at Chicago, IL and additional offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to TRAILBLAZER, 2325 Highway 90, Gautier, MS 39553. Canada Post Publication Mail Agreement 41461526.

TrailBlazer Magazine

Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800 Chicago, IL 60606 www.trailblazermagazine.net New Subscriptions 1-877-252-9320

TTN & LTR Reservation Services (From United States and Canada) 1-800-288-7245 • 228-497-3594 April 1 to August 31 Mon. - Fri. 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

September 1 to March 31 Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Central Time 24-hr. STAR Line: 1-800-859-7827 228-497-3594 Member Services 1-800-388-7788 Resort Parks International Reservations 1-800-456-7774 ELS Reservations 1-877-362-6736 PRINTED IN THE USA

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GRAPHIC DESIGNER Heather Anderson

Hidden Cove, AL: My son Bryant won the golf cart race at Hidden Cove resort over Memorial Day weekend. Beautiful place.

- Alan Moore

Now Win $50 EACH Issue!

Pics from the Parks Photo Submissions Do you have a winning photo from your visits to our preserves and resorts? We’d love for you to share it with us and what’s more, your submission will now be entered into our photo contest. Winners will receive a $50 American Express Gift Card. Each issue we will select one “winning” photo from the submissions received (all submissions must be received by midnight on the last day of the month.) Winning photos will be posted on the TrailBlazer website as well as in the magazine.

Photo submissions should include a brief description, including location of your photo, your name, city and state and sent to: TrailBlazer_photos@equitylifestyle.com or mail to: Equity LifeStyle Properties, Attn: TrailBlazer Photos Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800 Chicago, IL 60606 Emailed photos should be high resolution. Photos are not returnable and become the property of Equity LifeStyle Properties and may be used for publication on company websites and promotional purposes.

One winner will be selected EACH month from submissions received.

The winner will be announced in a future TrailBlazer issue and on the website.

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AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

PICS FROM THE PARKS

Ponderosa, CA: The view from our campsite next to the American River.

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Palm Springs, CA: The transplanted cactus came from Colorado River Preserve in Texas and it finally bloomed in Palm Springs!

- Karen Puryear and Sherie Walker, Wauseon, OH

- Bulent Kolat, Atwater, CA

Wilderness Lakes, CA: A great part of the preserve is the abundance of waterfowl. Ducks, geese, swans, herons, egrets and more - all were tending newly hatched families. Such fun to watch!.

- Carrol Swanson, Ventura, CA AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

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The Camper’s Kitchen

by Lesley Tennessen www.dutchovendiva.com

east meets west: THE LORE AND LURE OF SPICES

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o go along with the main feature of this issue, I began to think of how spices traveled from place to place and how the same spice occurs in multiple cultures.

I recently attended a discussion on spices given by a local spice emporium and once we got to talking, I decided to do a little research on cardamom. When you hear cardamom you probably are thinking of Swedish food, and you are entirely correct. But if you like East Indian, Turkish and points in between, you are correct there too.

The town of Geneva, Illinois has an annual Swedish Days event. Researching and reading about Swedish Days led me to information about the actual Swedish Day Celebration, traditionally held on the third Sunday in June (check out www. swedishday.net). The idea behind this event was to provide an opportunity for the numerous Scandinavian immigrants to enjoy the traditional celebration of Midsommar.

So there you have a brief history of Swedish Days, and here’s some brief history on cardamom. It’s a well-travelled spice, believed to have been brought from India to Greece by one of Alexander the Great’s soldiers in the fourth century BC where it was used in both medicinal as well as culinary concoctions.

In the ninth century, the Vikings took it from Constantinople to Scandinavia, where it’s still a fragrant favorite in baking.

So what do the Near East and Scandinavia have in common?

Half the world’s consumption of cardamom takes place in these two regions. Not familiar with this intense spice? Whip up a batch of Cardamom-Pecan Scones and taste what you are missing!

Cardamom Pecan Scones

This method with frozen butter is an excellent way to achieve flaky scones; if you don’t have time, simply use cold butter that has been sliced into 12 pieces.

Cooking Requirements: 425 degree oven Preheat the lid with lit charcoal for 3-5 minutes 2 10-inch Dutch ovens 12-14 briquettes on lid, 8 briquettes below in a ring pattern Bake time: 12-15 minutes Ingredients: 3 cups flour 1/3 cup sugar 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 3/4 teaspoon salt 12 tablespoons (6 ounces) butter, frozen 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons buttermilk (I use powdered buttermilk, water) 1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest, minced 4 green cardamom pods, seeds removed and crushed (about 1/4 teaspoon) 2/3 cup chopped pecans 1 egg white mixed with 1 teaspoon water 1/4 cup sugar 8

AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Cardamom Pecan Scones continued

While your charcoal is heating, go about preparing the dough.

Combine flour, 1/3 cup sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a mixing bowl. Use the large holes of a box grater to grate in the butter. Stir until mixture resembles lumpy coarse crumbs. Add the buttermilk, lemon zest, cardamom and pecans; mix gently with a fork. The dough should be just barely moist and won’t come completely together until the next step.

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured board (or waxed paper), gather and knead very briefly just until it comes together. Take care not to work too much extra flour into it. Divide the dough in half.

Form each half into a 1/2-inch thick circle. Place it into a lightly greased 10-inch Dutch oven. Cut into six triangles. Brush tops with the egg white mixture and sprinkle generously with the sugar. This will create shine and make the tops brown nicely.

Cardamom Pecan Scones

Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden. Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly and serve warm.

Roasted Butterflied Chicken with Cardamom and Yogurt

There is no shortage of spices in this recipe, yet the end result amplifies cardamom. Combined with garlic, ginger and yogurt this blend forms a thick marinade which coats, perfumes and tenderizes.

This left me with a wonderful spicy aftertaste that remained long after we’d pushed back from the table.

Cooking Requirements: 1 12-inch Dutch oven 30-35 lit charcoal briquettes Ingredients: Serves 4 seeds from 6 cardamom pods 1 teaspoon black peppercorns 1 teaspoon sea salt 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground cumin 3 garlic cloves 1 tablespoon olive oil 1/2 - 3/4 cup whole milk yogurt 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice 1 3-4 pound chicken, butterflied or 8 chicken thighs Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Roasted Butterflied Chicken with Cardamom and Yogurt

Grind cardamom seeds and peppercorns in a mortar with pestle to a fine powder. Add salt, coriander, cumin and garlic and smash the garlic. Add the olive oil to form a paste. Stir in yogurt, ginger and lemon juice.

Place chicken in a large bowl or pan. Rub yogurt between skin and breasts and thighs. Then smear remaining yogurt over the outside of the chicken, front and back. Refrigerate at least 3 hours or up to 24 hours. Remove chicken from refrigerator 30 minutes before roasting.

Light the charcoal.

When the charcoal is ready, place a ring of about 10 briquettes under the oven.

Continued on page 62

AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

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WANT TO BE A

LUCKY WINNER?

Thousand Trails is offering members the opportunity to win a

$1,000 American Express Gift Card

It’s easy ... pay your 2012 dues on time and camp at your favorite TT Preserve to earn entries into our monthly drawing. There is no limit to how many entries you can earn - so Get Out and Camp!

Our June winner is Tracey Lawson from Thomasville, Pennsylvania

Get Out and

Ca mp

When you pay your annual dues for 2012 in full, you will be entered into our monthly drawing for a $1,000 American Express gift card. There will be one drawing/one winner each month from January through December 2012. In addition, once you pay your dues in full, each time you camp at a Thousand Trails Preserve in 2012, you will receive an additional entry into the drawing. The drawings are limited to persons who are of legal age. The drawings will be held at our corporate office on the 10th day after the end of each month. Winners will be notified by mail or phone. The odds of winning will depend on the number of entries, but are not expected to exceed 1:100,000. Winners are responsible for federal and state taxes on the award. You may also enter the drawings by printing your name, address, day and evening phone numbers, and email address on a 3” x 5” piece of paper and mailing it to the Sponsor in addressed, stamped envelope. You are limited to one mail-in entry which must be postmarked

by December 2012. This promotion is sponsored by MHC Thousand Trails Limtied Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL, 60606.

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Tech Topics {

by Paul and Kerri Elders

This month, we take a look at basic battery maintenance, offer some thoughts on improving your security on the road, and give you some tips to help you make the most of your RV’s roof vent fans.

Basic Battery Maintenance

Sealed or gel-type batteries require no maintenance other than charging. If your gel or AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) batteries won’t hold a charge, it’s time to replace them. If your batteries are unsealed lead acid batteries, check the water level in all cells and top up with distilled water. Never use regular tap water, because it contains minerals that will interfere with the battery’s charge/discharge cycle, increasing selfdischarge and shortening battery life.

Clean the battery terminals and cable connections with a baking soda paste and a wire brush and carefully clean up afterwards. Once the terminals and cable connections are clean, apply a thin coating of Vaseline, grease, or battery terminal protector to the battery terminals to prevent future corrosion.

Where batteries are concerned, good connections are the secret to reliable power. After you’ve serviced the battery, tighten your battery cables securely. Use a trickle charger to bring the battery back to a full charge. If your charger doesn’t have a “trickle” setting, a regular charging cycle will also do the job. To prevent any possible disconnect sparking while charging, always unplug the charger first and then disconnect the charging cables you’ve connected to the battery terminals. It is important to note that lead acid batteries emit hydrogen gas which can be explosive so when charging lead acid batteries do so only in a wellventilated area, away from any ignition source.

RV Security Tips

Traveling in an RV offers fun, freedom, and flexibility.

But it also puts you “out there” in the world, because you’re actually traveling IN your home and an RV is FAR from invisible. There’s no need to get paranoid about your security, but it behooves us to think just a little bit about our personal safety while tooling around

the country, as we move from one glorious adventure to another. Here are just a few security tips to help you enjoy your travels with open eyes.

Listen to your intuition. Be observant and alert. When you stop at a gas station to refuel, look around before exiting your RV and while fueling up. Lock your RV (the front door and your cab doors) while fueling and always keep all storage bays locked while you travel. Be sensible and don’t leave valuables in plain sight in your RV or in your tow vehicle or toad. This should be a no-brainer, but we’ll mention it anyway: while you’re traveling to your ultimate destination, don’t draw attention to yourself by displaying large amounts of cash or wearing expensive jewelry.

If you stay in a public RV park, always insure that unexpected visitors to your site identify themselves. If a person pounding at your door claims to be an employee of the campground or RV park, have them wait outside while you use your cell phone to call the camp host or manager to verify the visitor’s identity and the reason for their visit. And be a good neighbor. If you see overtly suspicious activity that just “doesn’t look right,” (like a stranger moving campsite to campsite “checking out” your neighbor’s RVs while they’re out sightseeing), please report your observations to the camp host or management.

RV Roof Vent Tips

If you’ve been RVing for a little while, you probably know that by simply opening a few windows and turning on your roof vent fan, you can keep your RV significantly cooler.

You may also know you can use your roof vent fan to “precool” the RV to lighten your RV air conditioner’s initial heat load. But did you know it’s also a good idea to keep a roof vent open and a window cracked while cooking with your propane cooktop? This is because propane gas flames burn by using the oxygen provided by your living space.

Many travelers have found they can keep their RVs warmer Continued on page 62 AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

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TRAILMIX

Getting Paid to Play

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HATS OFF TO OUR RECREATION & ACTIVITY DIRECTORS usie Ruff, Recreation Director at Lake Minden Preserve laughingly tells people that she “gets paid to play.”

And while it may seem like fun and games to everyone else, the job of a Recreation Director or Activities Director at our preserves requires lots of planning, lots of energy, a willingness to roll with the changes and the ability to juggle (no pun intended) many balls at once.

The overall mission of the role, according to Kevin McLindsay, Property Manager at Pine Country in Illinois, is to “find fun and exciting activities that bring the whole family together.” “You really have to make sure that all ages, from young on up, can enjoy, participate and have fun,” said Nancy Lowe, Bay Landings Rec Director. Marty Scoggins, Preserve Manager at Colorado River adds that in addition to the events being planned and carried out, it’s also important to “exceed the expectations of members of all ages.”

“We also like to insure that our events encourage guests to meet and make new friends while also encouraging families to spend time doing something fun together,” said Barb Stanze General Manager at Forest Lake.

That can be a challenge when we have such a diverse membership across the Thousand Trails network. “I try to plan craft activities that are inexpensive, motorhome friendly and of a quality that you would want to send as a gift,” said Susie Ruff. “We also try to plan our activities to include active and quiet, indoor and outdoor, competitive and non-competitive, that serve the interests of a wide variety of ages and abilities.”

And since many activity calendars are planned in advance that also adds a challenge to the job. “We do not know what age groups are coming when we plan the activity calendar so we

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AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

offer multiple age activities at all times,” said Ginny Therrien, Resort Services Manager at Pacific City. South Jetty’s Sharon Samuelson can relate to that also. “One of the challenges I face when creating an activity schedule that appeals to all is not knowing what age ranges we will have at the park so I just try to keep a healthy mix of activities available for guests to enjoy,” she said.

“We face the challenge of having to plan a type of activity seven days a week with the wide range of ages. We need to make sure we have something for everyone,” said Idyllwild’s Pam Piner, Rec Director.

It’s also important to consider the guests and the reasons they choose a specific resort. “Our guests like the outdoors,” said Rancho Oso Rec Director Kim Zaenglein.” So we tailor our activities to accommodate all age groups with our hiking, horseback riding, and even our crafts.”

One key to planning a successful event is to be prepared.

“Always be ready for one or one hundred,” notes Denise Schaecher, Assistant Manager at Whalers Rest. Forest Lake can attest to that. “We recently tried something different and offered a full course dinner before the evening entertainment.

We sold tickets but did not expect to have much of a crowd since it was our first attempt at this type of event,“ said Barb Stanze. “We had 98 guests purchase tickets! Members are already asking when we are going to offer the “dinner and show” package again! It was great.”

There’s being prepared and then there’s being prepared for the unexpected. We asked our Recreation Directors to recall an event or two where Murphy’s Law came into play, that is to say, whatever could go wrong, did go wrong.

Dominic Pugliese, Resort Manager at Ponderosa, recalls the Labor Day Luau of 2007. “We had a roasted pig dinner, fire and hula dancers, live music, the whole shebang,” he said “We lost power about 5 minutes before the event but were able to pull it off with candles, generators and lamps and flashlights!”

“I remember one night when an entertainer was late for a performance and I had to hold the attention of the group and not let on things were running late,” recalls Denise Schaecher. “So I started giving away prizes based on asking people to bring different things up to me. For instance, the first person who could show me a photo of their pet and so on. After exhausting many ideas, I asked for a set of dentures. Yes, I wish I would have thought that one over...but I caught the set that was tossed to me and with a bright red face, turned the audience over to the entertainer!”

And how do you know if an event is a success. For the most part, everyone agrees that the smiles on everyone’s face is a testament to a successful event. “We gauge our success by the participation and the comments we get back from members,” said Jeannie Owen, Rec Director at Lake Conroe. “If they ask us to have the event again, we know it was a success,” said Ginny Therrien. “Smiling faces, happy members,” said Debby Sander, Manager at Paradise.

Also, the exchange of the stories about the event by the campers is another measure of success. “We gauge it by the number of stories that are told by the campers to others about how much fun they had and so on,” said Kenisee Lake’s Connie Higgs.

So, lots of work, lots of planning, but nevertheless lots of fun and very rewarding. “The best part of the job is hearing the laughter and working with the children,” said Lake Texoma’s Rec Director Juanita Vincent. “The staff camaraderie is a big plus too!”

“The best part of our job is the returning families who had such a good time with us and can’t want to see us again, said La Connor Rec Director Pam Waldron. Connie Higgs agrees. “The best part is the second family that is made here with campers, co-workers and management.”

If you could plan your Dream Event, what would it be?

• Pontoon Boat Tours on our beautiful lake.

Bay Landing • A good country/rock ‘n roll band with dancing, a BBQ with plenty of good Texas food and a campfire with dozens of members cooking s’mores and enjoying the nighttime sky. Colorado River • A weekend-long Halloween Extravaganza with access to corn fields and a haunted maze.

Forest Lake • A country fair with music, rides and games.

Idyllwild • A street dance featuring a popular local band with entry fee proceeds going to our favorite charity. La Conner • A huge Halloween Carnival with petting zoo and game booths. Lake Conroe • Pickleball Mania Tournament throughout our system with designated teams, team t-shirts and a travelling trophy to be awarded yearly. Lake Texoma • Theater Madness - all ages enjoy acting!

Pacific City • A carnival with multiple activities. Paradise • Fireworks at the preserve. Pine Country • A carnival-like atmosphere with events and activities. Ponderosa • Top quality entertainment - one big event per season. Rancho Oso

“The best part of my job? Meeting new people and getting to live in paradise,” said Kim at Rancho Oso.

• A major block party event with lots of fun

A paradise that is made even more exciting thanks to the hard work of our preserve staff and their efforts to bring fun, excitement, thrills, chills, laughter and unforgettable moments during your stay with us! ■

and relaxing with an awesome BBQ and a

activities for the kids and room for dancing dessert bar! Whalers Rest

AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

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Calendar - August 2012

(Events may be subject to change)

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS CALENDAR

BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA Cultus Lake

August 4-6: BC Day Weekend: Breakfast will be served each day on the long weekend. On Saturday night our Casino Night runs from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Every parent needs a night out once in a while, so come and enjoy our Casino Night. There will be horse races, Blackjack, Bingo and much more.

Come try your luck and see what prizes you go home with. Supper will be our Manager’s famous burgers, hot dogs and corn on the cob at 5 p.m. (note earlier supper time due to set up for Casino Night). August 11: Taste of BC and Produce Market: At 2 p.m. we will have all local fruits, vegetables and specialty foods such as goat cheese and honey products to sample. There will be many items for sale. Tickets will be available for purchase to taste a variety of BC wines. The evening meal will be an All You Can Eat (AYCE) Spaghetti Dinner at 5:30 p.m. August 18-19: Luau Weekend: Our Luau is simply spectacular and will have you talking about it for weeks. Paul Tavai-Latta, with his beautiful dancers, takes us on a journey through Polynesia. Audience participation is also part of the show and good for a few laughs. The dinner show will start after the meal has been served and will feature the dancers showing us their authentic Polynesian costumes. Our Luau meal will be a real pig roast with all the trimmings. Tickets available in the Country Store. There is a limited amount of tickets available and they sell out fast. August 25- 26: Wet ‘n Wild: Kids, bring your bathing suits and towel to the Rec. Centre at 2 p.m. and be prepared to get wet!! Come and enjoy AYCE Chili dinner at 5:30 pm. From 7 to 10 p.m. in the Rec Center spend the evening dancing to music

by Kevin our local DJ from Chilliwack - lots of selections to choose from.

CALIFORNIA Idyllwild

August 3-5: Beach Mountain Party Weekend: Cool off in the beautiful San Jacinto Mountains. There will be a watermelon eating contest on Saturday followed by a hula-hoop contest. Hope you save room for s’mores! Join Glen Smith at the Amphitheatre for some oldies but goodies, some twist and shouting and of course, s’mores! August 10-12: ALOHA! Pack your Hawaiian shirt and spend your weekend in the islands. The Pine Cone Café will be preparing an island-style dinner. After feasting on dinner Saturday, our campers will be treated to entertainment featuring hula dancers and music of the islands. During the weekend, there will be lots of fun activities planned to make this the perfect island getaway. August 24-26: First Annual Oktoberfest in August: The Pine Cone Café will be serving authentic German meals. There will be beer tasting, German games, contests, German music and dance.

August 25-26 19th Annual Idyllwild Jazz in the Pines This event was the vision of two music lovers who wanted to find a way to promote America’s original art form – jazz, as well as raise money for scholarships for the Idyllwild Arts Academy.

Two days of live jazz, entertainments, good food and vendors.

Held at the Idyllwild Arts Academy campus, just 7 miles from the preserve. Events hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For ticket information call (951) 500-4090.

Lake Minden August 3-5: RC Boats/Olympic Games: On Friday, we’ll continue our Olympic Celebration with a “Flavors of the World” Potluck Social, Brown Bag Bingo and a Family Movie. On Saturday morning, Pom Pom the Clown is here for Super Silly Olympic Games. Watch the Radio Controlled (RC) Boat Races on Saturday and Sunday. Don’t forget Saturday Candy Bar Bingo and the Ice Cream Social. August 10-12: Olympic Games Continued: On Friday we’ll be doing scrapbook pages so bring along your favorite photos for some new scrapbooking ideas. On Saturday we will continue our Olympic Games with Paddleboat Races and Cold Water Limbo followed by Candy Bar Bingo and Root Beer Floats at the Ice Cream Social. August 17-19: Wrapping up the Olympics: We’ll wrap up the Olympics with a Closing Ceremony Viewing and Potluck Social. Join us Saturday for miniature golf, water play, Candy Bar Bingo, and the Ice Cream Social followed by Family Karaoke. Kick up your heels at the Saturday Night Barn Dance. August 24-27: RC Boat Races: We’ll wrap up the summer at Lake Minden with an End of the Summer Block Party.

We’ll have a variety of activities on the main lawn including horseshoes, volleyball and face painting. Bring your favorite potluck dish and join us for a picnic lunch by the lake followed by Candy Bar Bingo and an Ice Cream Social.

Later, take your turn at karaoke and show us who’s got talent…and who doesn’t!

August 1-5 Yuba Sutter Fair Since 1934 the Yuba Sutter Fair has featured fun for the entire family including children’s activities, entertainment, music, rides, commercial vendors, agricultural exhibits, and animals, plus a wide variety of food and attractions. Held at the Yuba Sutter Fairgrounds, just 20 miles from the preserve. For information call (530) 674-1280.

Lake of the Springs Every Friday in August come play some Adult Money Bingo put on our by Volunteer Fire Department. Join us every Friday and Saturday for dinner and every Saturday and Sunday for breakfast. John Carter performs at the Family Campfire Sing-along and Marshmallow Roast every Saturday in 14

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AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Pio Pico August 4: Animals, Animals, Animals Weekend: Pet health seminars, pet show, dog Frisbee demos, dog training classes, and dog crafts. August 11: Hula Hula Weekend: Hula crafts, pineapple scavenger hunt, Luau dinner and entertainment. Call (619) 216-6900 for dinner reservations. August 18: Pirates of the Caribbean Weekend Fun: Pirate crafts, pirate treasure hunt, first annual Pio Pico 8-Ball Shootout, singles and doubles competition. August 25: 1st Annual RC Zoom Fest: Race on down to Pio Pico for a weekend of speed and excitement. Bring your RC cars and race around our new dirt track. Prizes awarded to the winners in our Saturday competition. For detailed event information and daily and weekly activities please see our Facebook page at Facebook.com/piopicocamping. You can share photos with us. We will be having a drawing beginning September 1 and running through October 1 for a “Two nights free stay” at Pio Pico.

August 12 Chula Vista Lemon Festival Chula Vista, once known as the Lemon Capital of the world, celebrates its heritage with food, craft booths, and entertainment.

Event is held in downtown Chula Vista, just 20 miles from the preserve, and runs from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Admission is free. For more information call (619) 422-1982.

Ponderosa August 18 Michael Chapdelaine in Concert Michael Chapdelaine is the only guitarist ever to win First Prize in the world’s top competitions in both the Classical and Fingerstyle genres. His performances, played on both steel string and classical guitars, include musical styles ranging from blues to Bach to country to rhythm and blues. Event is held at David Girard Vineyards, in Placerville, just 5 miles from the preserve. For information visit www.events@davidgirardvineyards.com.

Rancho Oso Every Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to noon come on down to the arena to watch the stock dogs herding sheep and cattle and stay for the bucking bull demo!

Get up close and personal with our “baby” bulls as we prepare them for a future in rodeo! A definite photo op! Every weekend join the fun and hop on board the famous Rancho Oso hay wagon to take a tour of our beautiful resort!

Wagon will drop off passengers at the barn for the stock dog and bucking

bull demo and barn tour. Don’t forget to call the stables at (805) 683-5110 and book your unforgettable horseback ride for ages 8 and over. Of course, your little buckaroos can get their first ride on a big horse, led by one of our friendly wranglers! This is a great “photo-op” for your scrapbook. The weather is perfect for hiking, swimming, riding, photography, or wine tasting in the Santa Ynez Valley, only a scenic half hour drive away. Don’t want to drive? Let us help you arrange a guided winery tour with a local tour company! Later in the day, join us for the Ice Cream Social to make your favorite sundae! Keep the weekend sweet with our Candy Bar Bingo too! Check out the new menu items on Friday and Saturday at the Stone Lodge Kitchen! Rancho Oso is one fun place!

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS CALENDAR

August. August 4: The McBride Brothers entertain with music from the 60s at the Family Dance. August 11: James Slack Band plays country favorites at the Family Dance. August 18: Southern Wings perform a little country and a little rock and roll at the Family Dance. August 25: Heading Due West performs good old country music at the Family Dance.

August 1-5 Old Spanish Days Fiesta The Fiesta Historical Parade is one of the largest equestrian parades in the US. The parade starts at the west end of Cabrillo Boulevard, proceeds east along the beach to State Street, then up State Street to Sola Street. Viewing the parade is free, but shaded reserved seating is available for purchase. Visit www. oldspanishdays-fiesta.org for reserved seating information and the entire Fiesta Event Schedule.

August 2 The Professional Bull Rider (PBR) Challenge Tour The toughest sport on earth returns with the nation’s top riders competing in the fast growing sport. The action is so close you’ll feel the sweat and dirt! The event is held at Earl Warren Showgrounds in Santa Barbara. For more information visit www. sbfiestarodeo.com.

San Benito We now have Friday night dinner specials – each week is something different.

Serving begins at 6 p.m. at Reba’s Cafe in the Family Lodge. Every Saturday and Sunday, from 8:30 to 10 a.m., we have breakfast with a full menu. The first Saturday is our Manager’s Meeting at 11 a.m. Ice Cream Socials are every Friday through Sunday at 2 p.m. We also have non-denominational Sunday services at 11 a.m. Plus, Tea Time Social on Wednesday, Bunco Thursdays and movies in our Fireplace Room and Ice Cream Socials on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. August 11: Luau! If you have never been, this a must to see and enjoy. We have a beautiful Polynesian troop performing all day long. From 1 to 3 p.m. a small band will play outside on our patio. Luau dinner served at 3 p.m. At dusk, the Polynesian troop will be performing pool side with hula girls, fire dancers and wonderful island music. You don’t want to miss this event. August 18: BBQ Lunch on the patio at noon. A swinging sock hop is scheduled from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. with the fabulous tunes of the Corvairs.

August 25: Karaoke with Noni, plus complimentary snacks, at 7 p.m.

Snowflower August 4: Wild Things Animal Show at 11 a.m. at the Recreation area.

August 25: Wild Things Animal Show at 11 a.m. at the Recreation area.

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August 4 Nevada City Uncorked: A Food & Wine Experience

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS CALENDAR

Wander through downtown Nevada City sampling local wines and food. Events hours are 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are $35 in advance, $45 day of event. This includes a commemorative wine glass to use at each wine tasting plus five food tickets. For more information call (800) 655-6569 or visit www.nevadacitychamber. com. Nevada City is just 30 miles from the preserve.

Wilderness Lakes August 4: Luau Weekend: Sunny Sunshine & Twinkles our clowns will be here to paint your face and make balloon figures. Vylani’s Polynesian Dancers perform many dances from their native islands. Their Fire Dancer will get your attention very quickly. Contest and prizes for all ages. August 11: Casino Night. Come play Blackjack for FREE. Play with Wilderness money and get rich. Tickets given and drawing for prizes at the end of the evening. Must be 21 to play. August 18: Dominic’s Karaoke for the whole family. Come and enjoy the evening. You can listen or sing along. Who knows you might be discovered for American Idol. August 25: Movie Night with FREE popcorn.

INDIANA

and a great time for all. August 17-19: Hobo Weekend: Join our Hobo Parade and enjoy some Hobo Stew.

Sea Pines August 3-5: Wild West Weekend. August 10-12: Teen’s Weekend. August 17-19: Summer Picnic Weekend. August 24-26: Just Messin’ Around Weekend. August 31-Sept. 3: Labor Day Weekend with DJ and Live Band.

August 4 Antique, Classic and Hot Rod Car Show Car show features classic cars and refreshments. Held in Wildwood Crest, just 20 minutes from the preserve.

NORTH CAROLINA Lake Gaston

August 3-5: Wacky Olympics: In celebration of the 2012 Olympics we will conduct our own Olympic Games. These games will come with a twist of “wackiness”. August 17-19: ODW Kitchen: At ODW we love to socialize and make new friends. There is no better way to make friends than by sharing recipes and eating together. Children will have a great time making snacks during activity time. We are also encouraging recipe swapping.

Indian Lakes August 3-5: Carnival Weekend includes Open House, Band, DJ and lots of carnival fun. August 10-12: Back to School Weekend: Big fun-filled week before heading back to school. August 17-19: Looney Olympic Weekend includes movie, Olympic games and a caravan dinner out on the town.

August 24-26: You Gotta Regatta includes movie and craft. Let’s float your boat and set your duckies a’sail.

MAINE

Moody Beach DON’T FORGET AUGUST IS LOBSTER MONTH IN MAINE! Sign up for the Surf and Turf dinner on August 11! Call Country Store for details.

MASSACHUSETTS Gateway to Cape Cod

August 5: Carnival Weekend – Our most popular Saturday of the year (except “maybe” Halloween) features clowns, entertainment, donkey race, games and prizes, and face painting. Fun for all ages! August 18: Luau – Plan for a fun Island Day with leis, grass skirts, and Hawaiian shirts.

Sturbridge August 11: Craft weekend for all ages. August 25: Clown Around Weekend: We will take a frown to a smile with entertainment, contests, and face painting. August 31-Sept. 3: Labor Day Weekend: This is the last long weekend so let’s have some fun with DJs on the beach, lots of activities and much, much s’mores!

NEW JERSEY Chestnut Lake

August 3-5: Luau Weekend includes pig roast, hula skirt making, lei making 16

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August 3-4, 10-12 “Ree-Haw” A parody of the fan favorite show that ran weekly from 1969 to 1997 with skits such as “Pickin and Grinnin”, “The Haystack” or “Pfft You was Gone”. This is a fun-filled night of country singing, comedy sketches and good old down home entertaining. Now ya’ll remember, Littleton spelled backwards is Not-Elltil. All evening performances start promptly at 8 p.m., matinees at 2:30 p.m. Doors open 45 minutes prior to show time. Held at the Lakeland Cultural Arts Theater, just 10 miles from the preserve.

For information call (252) 586-3124 or toll-free at (877) 330-0574.

August 11 The Crossing Swimmers, walkers and non-motorized vessels cross the onemile body of water. This fundraiser helps support non-profit organizations that support Lake Gaston. Bring the entire family and have a fun-filled morning. Held at Eaton Ferry Bridge, just 10 miles from the preserve. For information call (252) 586-5711 or toll-free at (866)-730-5711.

OHIO

Kenisee Lake August 3-5: Newlywed Game Weekend: Whether you have been married for one day or 50 years come join us for our version of the newlywed game!

August 10-12: A Night Under the Stars Weekend: Come join us for a weekend of campfires and cooking on the fire! August 17-19: Craft Extravaganza and

August 7-12 Ashtabula County Fair Fair includes animals, exhibits, exciting games, shows, food, rides and fun! Held at the Ashtabula Fairgrounds, just three miles from the preserve. For information call (440) 576-7626 or visit www.ashtabulafair.com.

Wilmington August 11-12: Who’s Got Talent? Any talent that you might have, singing, dancing or just be creative. Karaoke will be set up for your use. Have a favorite craft? Sign up for the craft demonstrations and let others see how creative you are. August 25-26 Back to School: Kids don’t get the blues, let’s have fun. There will be Slip ’n Slide, pool games and fun at the pool. You can make a special craft at the Lodge to take back to school. Ice Cream Sundaes will be served at the Store. August 31- Sept 3: Labor Day Weekend: Poolside party with hamburgers, yummy homemade Belgian Waffles, entertainment

by Rockin’ Hillbillies featuring Chubby Howard and performances by gospel groups Church, Majestic Sounds, Evening, and Sonship on Sunday.

August 17-18 Wilmington Art & Pottery Festival Juried art and pottery are featured at this artisan festival, plus demonstrations, food and a great time for all. Admission is $4 for adults and free for children under 12. Hours are Friday from noon to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Held at the Roberts Conference Center, just 15 minutes from the preserve.

For information call (937) 382-6442.

OREGON

Bend/Sunriver August 11-12: Bend/Sunriver’s Own 2012 Summer Olympics feature gymnastics, river races, swimming, track and volleyball. Join a team or bring your own. Don’t miss this one! August 25: Penny Party: How many games can we play with pennies? Lots of fun and a bit of laughter along the way.

August 10 Sunriver Music Festival Pops Concert Classical Mystery Tour is a tribute to the Beatles. More than two dozen Beatles tunes performed exactly as they were originally recorded; includes full orchestra to create a powerful presentation. Held at the Bend High Auditorium, just 20 miles from the preserve. Event runs from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. For information call (541) 593-9310.

Pacific City August 4: Gone to Wonderland events include Off with ‘Yer Head Goose Golf, “Hearts” Bingo, Mad Hatter tea party, and find “Alice” Scavenger Hunt. August 11: Country Fair Daze events include watermelon eatin’, partner puddin’ eatin’, lemonade social, and barnyard critters skit. August 18: Fire Fighter Daze events include Bucket Brigade Relay, and Get “Hosed” in our squirt gun event.

Lee King entertains. August 25: Garden Daze events include make a garden trivet, Veggie Races, and Bugs and Butterflies edible craft. Heritage County/ Christian Trio entertains.

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS CALENDAR

Tiki Torch Time Weekend: Come join us for a Craft Show! We will have different crafters here to showcase and sell their work. Also, join us for our Luau! We will be having a dinner, games, and DJ/karaoke! August 23-25: Ready, Set, Play Weekend: Come join us for a weekend of games! We will have anything from board games to relay races!

August 8 Tillamook County Fair Pig and Ford races, 4-H exhibits, floral hall, food and craft vendors, horse racing and betting, demolition derby, Ricky Scaggs, Jo Dee Messina and Smash Mouth music concerts, hypnotists, jugglers, reptile exhibit, carnival rides and more. Rated #1 in Oregon.

For information visit www.Tillamookfair.com.

Seaside August 4: We will all be a rockin’ and a rollin’ with Storm‘in Norman! And at the same time we will be lighting up the fire pit and cooking some s’mores!

August 11: We will be enjoying the sounds of the Salty Dogs and at the same time we will be lighting up the fire pit and cooking some s’mores! August 2229: By formal request! “They’re Back!” Who do you say! Well of course it’s “The Pacific City Ramblers” holding their third Jamboree here at Seaside! And you know what that means! Fun, Fun, Fun! There will be dessert auctions, socials, singing at the fire pit, games for all ages, all day, every day! And as usual they will be bringing along Chef John so he can once again amaze us with his world class BBQ on the 25th! Last year we had over 186 in attendance! Amazing!

Throughout the month, Christopher & Minda will be cooking breakfast on the weekends and we are sure to have a few extra events and socials organized!

August 12-14 Seaside Beach Volleyball Enjoy the largest amateur beach volleyball tournament in the world with over 800 teams playing on 100 plus courts. Divisions range from parent and child to Masters 55+, along with our Men, Women and Co-ed Open Divisions that feature current and retired AVP ranked players. Seaside Beach Volleyball is consistently the highest ranked and most visited amateur beach volleyball tournament around! For more information visit www. seasidebeachvolleyebal.com.

August 18 A Day in the Park This will be our 3rd annual A Day in the Park. Last year’s event was a lot of fun and this year it promises to be even better. Join us for an eating contest, games, a Saturday market, live music and a whole lot more. This event is held in Broadway Park next to the Sunset Pool. This is a free community event, so come out and enjoy some fun in the sun! For information visit www. sunsetempire.com.

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South Jetty

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS CALENDAR

August 9-12: Book Lover’s weekend at South Jetty! We will be celebrating all things books! A whole weekend dedicated to books! On August 11 we will be having a Book Swap. Bring books that you have loved and want to give a new home and find new books to take with you on your adventures!

We will be making laminated bookmarks so that you can treat your books to a handmade gift! Make a notebook to keep a log of your adventures or maybe you are an aspiring author yourself and you can start your own book within the pages of your notebook!

August 10-11 Relay for Life There are many ways to help! You can join a team, sponsor a team, purchase luminaries or volunteer time! The theme for this year is “We believe in Magic. Relay, Hope, Life”. Help someone else celebrate another birthday with this great fundraiser! Visit www. florencerelay.org for more information. Held at Miller Park, just 2 ½ miles from the preserve. For information call (541) 997-3441.

August 12 Concours at the Coast A showing of the best possible field of collector automobiles displayed at the exciting Three Rivers Casino & Hotel in Florence.

Displays include Class A 1900-1931, Class AA 1931-1945, Class B 1946-1963, Class C 1964-1983, Class D 1984-Present, Class E Special Interest. Registration is free and includes a Collector’s Package. Held at Three Rivers Casino, approximately 3 miles from the preserve. For more information call (541) 902-6607.

Whalers Rest August 3-5: Welcome the “British Invasion” at Whalers Rest! Join us this weekend at the Beatles Tournament with our Wii Guitars. Saturday night at 7 p.m. we will have Nehemiah Brown entertain us in the South Clubhouse.

August 10-12: It’s “Dipty do Dah Weekend” at Whalers Rest. We’ll be dippin’ everything from wet swimsuits to strawberries. Oh and the frozen chocolate bananas - “Yum”! Dinner will be served and following will be a fun “Family Night Bingo” time in our North Clubhouse. August 17-19: Watermelon Galore Festival is taking ground this weekend. Don’t be a melon head and miss all the fun Saturday night at the “Watermelon Party” that starts at 7 p.m. in the South Clubhouse. Bring a melon carved for the watermelon carving contest too! August 23: Tonight is Kids Extreme Play Night from 7 to11 p.m. in our South Clubhouse. Sign up your kids for a jam-packed fun evening with games, swimming, snacks and a great movie. Adults you can take tonight off.

August 24-26: “Whalers Block Party” weekend at the coast. It will be a fun weekend with a blowout of a BBQ with all the fixins’. Tie-dye for the crazy at heart. Join in the music fun with Ron Diller as he performs in the South Clubhouse Saturday night at 7 p.m. August 31-Sept. 2: Whalers remembers “The Dirty 30s” this weekend from the Great Depression. Bring your treats for the Box Supper and Pie Auctions. It will be fun to see who you end up meeting at the table. Wayne Graber Band will perform great fiddling music in our South Clubhouse, Saturday night at 7 p.m.

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August 3-4 Quilts by the Sea Quilt Show, held at the Newport Recreation Center, just 5 minutes from the preserve. Recreation Center is located at 225 SE Avery Street in Newport. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. For more information visit www. oregoncoastalquilters.org or oregoncoastalquilters@live.com.

PENNSYLVANIA Scotrun

August 11: Spellbound! Come watch your fellow campers perform under a hypnotist’s spell. Lots of laughs. Dare to try it yourself? Volunteers welcome.

August 25: It’s in the Cards: What does the future hold for you? Come have your cards read. The cards can reveal the answers. Be sure to reserve your time slot at check-in. This is a very popular program.

August 18 The Mud Run Mountain Trail Run with natural and man-made obstacles, rocky, wooded and wet terrain, shallow water crossings and mud! Get a team and get dirty. Families, spectators, and costumes welcome!

Live music and awards, plus BBQ food and beverages available.

Event runs from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Held at Shawnee Mountain, just 15 miles from the preserves. For information call (570) 421-7231 or visit www.shawneemt.com

TEXAS

Bay Landing August 3-5: Safari Weekend: Hop aboard Bay Landing’s safari wagon where the adventure to the jungle begins! See how many “jungle animals” you can find and pick up to keep. There could be a monkey in a tree, a snake on the ground or watch out for the lions and tigers! Don’t forget to enter the “Tarzan Yell” contest. You can even make a mold of all the prints you find in the park, maybe even a bobcat, deer, or a mountain lion! August 31-Sept. 3: Hawaiian Luau/Labor Day: It’s island time in the Texas heat. Hula skirts will be rolling off the tables just as fast as we can make them, along with the leis that will be made special by your own hands. It will be a day filled with that island magic. Even a roasted pig from the guys on the park makes it grand entrance, right before the feast that Angie has prepared for all us islanders to enjoy. And then the volcano erupts as T-Bone Road take center stage at the Beachview pavilion under our own island stars.

Colorado River

Fun-filled rodeo event including midnight trailride, campout under the big Texas sky, demonstrations on horsemanship, Competition rodeo, DJs, and food vendors. Sponsored by the Columbus Chamber of Commerce, event is held at the Colorado County Fairgrounds in Columbus, just 4 miles from the preserve.

For information call (979) 732-5385.

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS CALENDAR

August 3 18th Annual Liz Cook Trailride, Texas Super Trailride, Rodeo and Parade

crowd and shuffleboard for the entire family. Friday Bingo features candy bars. We will be regaled Saturday evening with songs by renowned Blues singer Stephen Pride. August 12: Games Weekend: We will have games available for every age group – indoor, outdoor, Loopz, Pegs and Jokers, Wii, Jenga, Minute to Win It stunts, “Patio” hockey, and much more. Allen Hurt and His Troupe will keep your feet tapping and hands clapping through the night.

August 25: Back to School Weekend: Win some school supplies playing “Back to School” Bingo. This will be your last chance to become a “Minute to Win It” star for the 2012 season. The 13-18 year old teens will have a “Back to School” pool party featuring Tyler Bratcher as the DJ.

Lake Whitney Lake Conroe August 4: Potluck Pigout & August Birthday weekend: We will be celebrating August birthdays so come join the fun and enjoy some cake. Bring your favorite dish to the pavilion to share with your fellow campers and get to know your neighbor! We’ll also be having entertainment from Cindy Renee’.

She will be putting on an exciting and high energy show so we can all work off all the potluck extra they we enjoy so much. August 11: Kids Weekend: This weekend will be all about kids so we will be playing a lot of games and making kids crafts. There will also be golf cart races and parades and snow cones and hot dogs will be served from the Cactus Café. August 18: Back to School Weekend: Bring all the kiddos and let them say their goodbyes to the summer. We will be having all kinds of contests and games to get the kids thinking it is still summer. By the time they leave they will be thinking of the great times they will be having at school. August 25: Beach Boys Weekend: This weekend will be all about the Beach Boys music. We will have a volleyball game at the lake while listening to the Beach Boys music. We will be saying goodbye to summer with all kinds of summer fun.

Lake Tawakoni August 4: Summer’s Last Big Splash Weekend includes pool activities.

August 17: Member-generated Casino Run to Choctaw. All other activity schedules will be in check-in packets or by calling the Ranger Station weekly.

Adult Center is available for weekend member-generated activities. Friday and Saturday night game night.

Throughout August First Monday of the Month Held in Canton, just 30 miles from the preserve, this is one of the world’s largest trade days.

Lake Texoma August 3-4 Tournament Weekend: Find out who’s the best of the courts during our pickleball tourney and free throw contest. There will also be a horseshoe tourney and an 8-Ball Pool Tourney. You won’t know if you’re the best if you don’t sign up. The Back Road Band will provide evening entertainment. Friday Bingo features RV/Household prizes. August 10-11: Anything Goes Weekend: Lots of laughs when you play our version of “Krazy” golf on the mini-golf course. There’s a Wii Bowling Tournament for the adult

August 11: Sign up by August 4 for our first ever Triathlon for all ages.

Participants will walk/run, swim and ride bicycles. All participants will receive a free hot dog lunch, which includes chips and drink. This is for all ages and we will have various age categories with distances chosen according to age and capability. This should be a great time so bring the whole family. We will be selling hot dogs, chips and a drink, for a small price, to all non-participants.

We will be set up in front of the Family Pool and start at 8 a.m. so we can finish by noon. Start getting in shape and be ready to win! We will have great prizes for all the winners! Look forward to seeing you there!

August 1-4 Plaza Play House presents: Footloose the Musical Based on the smash movie sensation by the same name, Footloose is the story of Ren, a young man from Chicago, forced to move with his mother to a puritanical, small town after his father abandons the family. To Ren’s shock and amazement, dancing and rock and roll are forbidden. Through tenacity and clever use of the Bible, Ren manages to convince the local minister, Reverend Moore, to let the town’s high-schoolers dance again. Performances are at 7:30 p.m., plus an additional matinee performance on Saturday at 3 p.m. Theater is located at 111 S. Main Street, in Cleburne, just 30 miles from the preserve. For information call (817) 202-0600.

Medina Lake August 4: Craft sale, kids’ craft, wooden pig races, celebrating August birthdays and anniversaries during Ice Cream Social; water games at pool and Minute to Win It Games. August 11: Back to School Weekend: kids’ craft, school supply (candy) game, Kids’ Bingo, water games at the pool, hamburgers and hot dogs at the pool and Ice Cream Social. August 18: Craft sale, kids’ craft, bean bag baseball, water games at pool, shuffleboard and Ice Cream Social. August 25: Kids’ Craft, Candy Bar Bingo, Brown Bag Card Bingo, water games at pool and Ice Cream Social.

August 3 BR Lightning Ranch Summer Buckle Series Rodeo Lightning Ranch featuring bull riding, steer riding, calf roping, barrel racing, mutton busting and more, plus high-diving aqua mules. Held at Pipe Creek, just 13 miles from the preserve. Event starts at 8 p.m. For more information call (830) 535-4096.

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August 11-12 Boerne Market Days

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS CALENDAR

Market Days in Boerne has become synonymous with great shopping in an outdoor setting with artists, craftsmen, and vendors showing their creative talents and wares set to the background of music of some of Texas’ best homegrown musicians. Jewelry, plants, collectibles, antiques and more, plus great food with local flavor! Held in Boerne Main Plaza, hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. For information call (210) 844-8193.

VIRGINIA

Chesapeake Bay August 4: Cornhole Tournament: August 10-11: Pirates of the Piankatank: Friday night, watch the third “Pirates of the Caribbean” movie at the Golf Cart Drive-In Movie Theater. On Saturday, we call all pirates and wenches to the DJ Dance! August 12-18: Children’s Music Camp: Led by professional music teacher, Jean McEntire, this very affordable music camp includes short daily rehearsals and a Saturday concert for two age groups: 3-5 year-olds, and 6-12 year-olds. Call (804) 695-9645 to register in advance. August 18: Camp Swap Meet: Buy, sell or trade your used “heirlooms”. Set up and sell from your campsite (this day only!) or bring your treasures to sell at the Pavilion.

August 25: Scrapbooking and More.

Harbor View Every Saturday we’ll have Kids’ Crafts. Drop your children by the Rec Hall before heading to the pool for Adult swim from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Your children will enjoy bringing out their artistic selves! Cost is $5 per child. August 11: Luau at the Pavilion: Come dressed in your ALOHA attire and bring your own meat to grill and a side to share! August 25: Pirate Party at the Pavilion. Dress to impress! Bring your favorite punch and finger food to share!

Every Wednesday and Saturday in August Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament Style Texas Hold ‘Em, for adults 21 and over, held at the Riverboat on the Potomoc, which is just 8 miles from the preserve. Games begin at 7 and 9:30 p.m. For information call (804) 224-7055.

August 18-19 33rd Annual Rod Run to the Beach Sponsored by the Colonial Beach Education Foundation, event features hot rods, customs, and street machines. Held at Town Hill in Colonial Beach, just 8 miles from the preserve. For information call (804) 224-0690.

WASHINGTON Birch Bay

August 4-5: Check out our Red Canopy Karaoke Booth at the Harbor Days Festival in Blaine, See you there! Come join us and sing a few songs too!

August 25: Fear Factor Event for ALL ages.

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August 5 Drayton Harbor Days Festival Street Fair, Maritime Celebration and Pet Show A weekend packed with fun for the entire family! A two-day weekend event packed with kids games, crafts, scavenger hunt, the “Prestigious George Raft Race”, pirate costume judging contest, arts, crafts and food vendors, vintage steam boats, Plover Ferry ridges and much more! New this year to the festivities is a Pet show to be held Sunday at 2 p.m. Adults and kids of all ages enter can enter their pet lizard, cat, duck, dog! Prizes!!!! Event is held at the Blaine Boating Center, 235 Marine Drive, just 4 miles from the preserve. For information call (360) 332-4544.

August 13-18 Northwest Washington Fair Gates open at 9 a.m. and close at 11 p.m. Vendor booths open at 10 a.m. and close at 10:30 p.m. Carnival hours are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. The fair office is open 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, with the exceptions of the week prior to fair when office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday - Saturday, noon to 7 p.m.

Sunday prior to fair, and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. the week of the fair.

Chehalis August 3-5: The Biggest Little Circus in the World comes to Chehalis.

Be amazed as the Wenatchee Youth Circus sets up in Roy Rogers Field and performs three times over the weekend. Don’t miss this terrific show! August 10-12: Pirate Weekend! Bring your spoils to sell and your pieces of eight to spend at the Pirates Plaza bazaar. Sharpen your swords for a weekend of pirate games, contests, and fun. Mellow out Saturday evening to the music of Stormin’ Norman! August 17-19: Polynesian Holiday…put on your grass skirts and Hawaiian shirts and join us for a TT-style luau weekend. Bring your favorite tropical dish to share at the Saturday night potluck, and enjoy Hawaiian style smoothies while you learn to hula! August 24-26: Enjoy a weekend of browsing booths of Artisans and Crafters with great wares to tempt you! Or rent a table and display your own work! This event is growing every season, so don’t miss it! August 31-Sept. 3: It’s the Last Hurrah! Labor Day weekend is always full of fun, including tunes by RAM Karaoke and two days of Slip ‘n Slide for your excitement!

August 10-12 70th Morton Loggers’ Jubilee Event includes demonstrations, a parade, booths, and games.

Held in Morton, just 25 minutes from the preserve.

La Conner August 3: Campfire with Amy Hindman. August 4: Happy Birthday To You! Join us for cake and homemade ice cream. August 11: Michelle’s Country Around the World. August 17: Campfire with Amy Hindman. August 18: Water Weekend with our Slip ‘n Slide. August 25: Game Show Weekend:

August 31: Campfire with Amy Hindman.

August 20-26 Annual Washington State International Kite Festival

Start off the morning with a Pancake Breakfast hosted by Rotary of La Conner and Sea Scouts from 7:30 to 10 a.m. in the Swinomish Yacht Club. The Boat and Car Show runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Registration starts at 7:30 a.m. for cars and boats on trailers. Bring the family and enjoy vendors, raffle prizes, swap meet, demonstrations and music.

Be sure to vote for your favorite car and boat!

This all-day event was voted “Best Kite Festival in the World” by the Kite Trade Assn. International. Event includes a full week of festivities including competitions by professional and amateur kite flyers and teams, mass ascensions, fireworks, lighted night kite flies, trick flying competitions, food and crafts, vendors and much, much more! Held in downtown Long Beach, just four miles from the preserve. For information call (360) 642-4020.

Leavenworth Every summer weekend we have disc golf contest on our nine-hole course, volleyball matches on our two courts, team kickball on our baseball field, horseshoes contests, mini-golf matches on our 18-hole course, and table tennis matches. We’ll also have obstacle course contests, paper airplane building and flying contests, paper boat building and sailing on our creek, Wii dance contests and movie and popcorn nights. Every Saturday and Sunday, join “Thousand Trails Ernie” for a guided hike. He has some fascinating tales to explain some of the unique features and oddities you’ll find along our trails.

Guided tours are fun for both kids and adults. Make sure you sign up as soon as you arrive.

Little Diamond August 3-5: Mad Hatter Tea Party: The ultimate unbirthday party! Fun and unusual games are planned as part of the surprise package this weekend. Be a player and bring your own costume to add to the fun in our wonderland experience. Tick-tock! August 10-12: When you Wish Upon a Star – Star Gazing Party: Astronomy enthusiasts and amateurs alike will enjoy the scope and spectrum of the night sky presentation. Maximum Perseid meteor show activity is expected this weekend. Dress warmly and bring your binoculars, lounge chairs, snacks and hot chocolate! The Spokane Astronomical Society will be providing several large telescopes and will be available to answer questions and give direction for your viewing pleasure. Plenty of activity planned for the daylight hours for those who are not night owls! August 17-19: Pirates’ Costume Party: Climb aboard! Pirate ship photo op, join the treasure hunt, enter the peg leg races, walk the plank…cuz we will be pirates! Argh! Don’t forget to bring your pirate costumes. Prizes awarded for the best costumes. Also, a good game of Capture the Flag is in order. Outdoor Theater night featuring pirate movies, of course! August 24-26: Iron Man Competition: Row your boat, ride your bike, run the race! There will be divisions for all age brackets, singles and teams wanting to compete. Plus, don’t miss the Pumping Iron challenge! Sure to be a crowd pleaser.

Long Beach August 4: Talk-Like-a-Pirate Day includes Craft Hour mid-afternoon to make hats and eye patches! Saturday night’s movie will be from the Pirates of the Caribbean series-yarrr matey! August 18: Aloha Saturday Afternoon includes fun with leis, ring toss, water balloon fights and Tiki Bean Bag Toss!

Plus goody bags for the kids!

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS CALENDAR

August 11 12th Annual La Connor Classic Boat and Car Show

August 17-19 Blues & Seafood Festival Start the weekend off with hot blues bands and a food court with local seafood specials, regional beer and wine venues along the marina at the Port of Ilwaco. Then continue the festivities on the 19th at Ocean Park’s Jazz & Oysters, featuring live jazz bands and plenty of grilled oysters, fruit and cheese plates and desserts, beverages and libations.

Mount Vernon August 11: Elvis is in the House: Shane Cobane is an Elvis impersonator with costume and song. Gals bring out your poodle skirts and Guys slick back your hair. Wear your leather jacket and take a stroll down memory lane. August 18: Membership Appreciation: Join us for Potluck Dinner and meet and greet your neighbors. We will provide the main entree. August 25: Hawaiian Days: Once again we are having our Hawaiian theme day with entertainment by the Aloha Dancers. Dress for the occasion and join in the contests. Dinner plans announced later.

August 10-13 Skagit Valley Fair Celebrate the country’s agricultural heritage with farm animal showing, a carnival, craft and hobby displays, vendor booths, music and more. Held at the Mount Vernon Fairgrounds, just 15 miles from the preserve. For information call (360) 336-9453.

Thunderbird August 18-19: 1st Annual “Thunderbird Open” Miniature Golf Tourney.

Participants will be broken into groups based on age and skill level. Come see who is the next “Great American Golfer”!

August 23-September 3 Evergreen State Fair The Evergreen State Fair is the largest annual event in Snohomish County. Approximately 900,000 visitors walk through the gates to eat food on a stick, ride the rides, play the carnival games, see all the 4-H exhibits and farm animals and gather around stages to hear big name music acts. Don’t miss the Fair Days Parade at 11 a.m. on the 25th on Main Street in Monroe. For more information on the fair call (360) 805-6700. Held at the Evergreen State Fairgrounds in Monroe, just 7 miles from the preserve.

AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

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8701 S Kolb Rd Tucson, AZ 85756

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Newly Re-modeled • Day Spa/Massage • 3 Pools/Hot Tubs • Tennis Courts • Fitness Center • 9-Hole Par 3 Golf Course • Pickleball Courts • Bar & Grill

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Offer valid for members of Thousand Trails, NACO, Mid-Atlantic, Leisure Time and Outdoor World only. All rates are based on double occupancy for standard room types are and are subject to availability. Free night offer is for 3 nights consecutive stay. Not valid with any other offers or discounts. Rates do not include tax and resort fee and are subject to change without notice. Limited time offer - valid through September 30, 2012.

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AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Spotlight | Stargazing

S

ometimes, when planning an activity for the day or night, it’s as easy as sitting back and taking in all that surrounds you. This is especially true when it comes to one of the world’s oldest pastimes: stargazing. What’s required to enjoy a night with the stars? A blanket large enough for you and your fellow stargazers and a clear space without view obstructions or an overabundance of city lights. Grab your supplies and make sure you experience a few August nights under the stars!

Download a stargazing app With the advancement of technology, you no longer need to lug out a map of the night sky and guess what the twinkling dots above you are forming. There are numerous apps out there that will use the GPS inside of your smart phone to determine exactly what you’re looking at in the night sky. Simply open the app and hold it up to the sky. A star map will appear and you can match what you’re looking at with your digital planisphere.

Each August, the Perseids, a famous meteor shower located in the constellation Perseus, drift across the sky, providing a lunar show for all those in the northern hemisphere. For about 2000 years, stargazers have been enjoying the spectacle that is the Perseid meteor shower. This year, the Perseids are expected to peak on August 13-14. Be sure to stake out the perfect viewing spot and enjoy the show.

Position yourself correctly Once you’ve found the perfect viewing spot, lie down or situate your chair so the horizon appears level with your peripheral vision. The stars and sky will fill your field of vision, so a passing meteor will be sure to catch your eye.

Wherever you may be hoping to catch a glimpse of the Perseids shooting across the night sky this month, here are a few tips that can help make your stargazing experience a more successful one.

Drive away from city lights and avoid any oncoming traffic light City lights create a glow in the night sky, making meteor sightings much more difficult. Also, you may notice a beautiful night sky while driving along the highway, but stray away from any oncoming light from traffic, as it will impact your night vision.

Determine if the sky is dark enough for a successful night of meteor searching Once you can see all of the stars in the Little Dipper, you’re in a perfect position to catch a meteor or two.

This means your eyes have fully adapted to the dark and your search can begin.

Whether you’re out at a preserve or trying to catch a glimpse of the Perseids from your own backyard, be sure to be patient during your search. The constellation Perseus rises in the northeast around 11 p.m. in midAugust. Settle into your viewing spot a few minutes before 11 p.m. Eastern time in order to get set up and focused.

Stargazing can be a fun and relaxing activity for all members of your family or travel party, though it’s never a bad idea to compete and see who catches a glimpse of the most meteors shooting across the sky!

■

by Annie Colletti

AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

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CIRCLE NO. 118 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

Noble Trenham writing his daily notes inside “Roadrunner”, 1959

GLOBAL NOBLE PART 5

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eparting Panama aboard the Reina Del Mar bound for Venezuela, Noble notes that he and Dean “were ready for some adventure” – some people may think just the concept of the trip is adventure enough and if you’ve been following this series, the trip so far has been all about adventure. But nevertheless, they were seeking adventure, and they certainly found it on this leg of the trip.

The three-day voyage from Panama to Venezuela went off without a hitch, or as Noble says “all with little fuss.”

“We had made it to South America, our second continent, and Dean and I had to make a decision as to how we were going to spend our time,” said Noble.

Remember that detailed itinerary Noble had prepared and distributed to all his stateside friends before they left? Well, that was now a bit off track.

“Departing Panama, we were already a month behind that very precise schedule,” said Noble. “Not because we were slow guys, but because the world had embraced us so much by inviting us for tea, for dinner, to visits that were not on our schedule. That was fun and that is what we hoped would happen and it happened in spades. So I threw away the itinerary and made a pact with Dean.

We would concentrate our time in the parts of the world which would be most to difficult to return to in the future. And that meant Africa, and Asia and Australia, so that’s what we planned”.

To that end, they “hustled through Venezuela” because of its proximity to the US. “So there we were attempting to enter Colombia without a visa, which turned out to be a mistake,” said Noble. “We had checked out of Venezuela and could not re-enter that country again without a new visa and Colombia did not let us enter so we were caught in no man’s land between the two countries. Thank goodness we were self-contained.”

Making dinner, bedding down for a good night’s sleep, and figuring out a plan to talk their way into Colombia without a visa were on the agenda that night!

As it turns out, the pair was able to enter Colombia without a visa but that’s where the adventure begins. “I think the Colombian officials at the border got a good look at our unique vehicle and came to the conclusion that we were not a threat to their country,” said Noble.

“We were permitted to enter with the scolding that we go to the capital city of Bogota and obtain a visa permitting us to exit, which we did.”

As they headed to Ecuador, they stopped for dinner in Tunja, a Colombian town with an elevation of 10,000

feet buried in the Andes Mountains. “After dinner, we asked a fellow for directions who said he would show us the way if we could provide him a ride home,” said Noble. Noting this gentleman had perhaps had a bit too much to drink at dinner, Noble and Dean chose to find their own way but were surprised at the next turn of events.

“As we got into the Jeep, this man stepped in front of the truck and pulled a gun on us,” Noble said. “It turns out he was Colombian Intelligencia and did not believe we were on a good will mission around the world, but rather that we looked like Cuban Communists (thanks in part to the 4-month beard growth each man sported).” Keep in mind that it had only been six months since the Castro regime had taken over Cuba and the South American world was still rattled, to say the least. While Dean stayed behind with the Jeep, Noble was carted off to be interrogated.

“There I was being interrogated in Spanish, being asked many questions I could not understand,” said Noble. I began to introduce the letters of reference I carried from Vice President Richard Nixon, from California Senator Tommy Kuchel, from the State Department, all to no avail.” Thinking he had struck out, Noble pulled out one last letter – and again, those ties that bind, and these being the ties to USC, came through for him.

“I had the letter from Dr. Rufus B. von KleinSmid, and since we were buried deep in the Andes, I thought they’d have no idea who that might be, but what did I have to lose?” said Noble. Turns out two young people from Tunja were currently studying at USC. “If you are from USC you cannot be all bad,” said the gentleman, ultimately, letting Noble go free.

“You can imagine all the fun I have with that story with my friends from UCLA. If I had been a Bruin, I’d still be in a Tunja jail,” chuckles Noble!

On to Ecuador… ■ AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

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Visit Emerald Cove for River Relaxation Earp, CA

The Colorado River is legendary as a destination for water sports enthusiasts, sun worshippers and funlovers. The best way to experience it all is through Colorado River Adventures (CRA), which has a number of locations along “the River,” as everybody calls it.

One of CRA’s largest destinations with more than 800 RV sites is the Emerald Cove Resort in Earp, California, very close to Parker, Arizona, and about 40 miles south of Lake Havasu. “Many of our RV sites are located right on our private, white sand beaches,” said CRA Marketing Director Randy Wright.

In addition to RV sites at Emerald Cove, Resort Parks International and Preferred Access offer Riverfront Cottage rentals. The cottages are fully furnished and equipped with a full kitchen. Private cottages have one private bedroom and a second room with bunk beds (linens are provided). There is also a private deck and barbecue grill. Simply call Preferred Access at (800) 281-4977 for reservations.

Emerald Cove is packed with family vacation adventure activities to keep everyone of all ages entertained.

Emerald Cove features its own triple-wide boat launch that makes it easy to indulge in the opportunities for boating, water skiing and jet skiing on the river. If guests don’t bring watercraft with them, rentals are available.

The resort features two large covered pools as well a wading pool for the children. Emerald Cove has a great family-friendly resource called River Rats Kid’s Club, which offers a safe, fun, and adventurous environment filled with pool tables, video games and more, and has full supervision. Elsewhere at the resort guests can enjoy planned activities and barbecues, a clubhouse and family centers, plus the Country Store and a laundry facility.

Off-site there is all sorts of stuff to do. Within a short drive is the Emerald Canyon Golf Course. Given a four-star rating by Golf Digest, the course was described as “the best bargain in Arizona” with an “unusual layout” and “stunning surroundings” by the magazine. Off-roading is ideal at the Copper Basin Dunes OHV Area which offers 1,275 acres of “open” riding area with sand dunes, trails and canyons and is just a few miles away on Parker Dam Road.

For a more serene time behind the wheel, Parker Dam Road Back Country Byway highlights natural, 26

AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

historic and prehistoric sights along an 11-mile road that winds adjacent to the river near Parker and Lake Havasu City. The Byway is great for hiking, wildlife viewing, watching wild burros and quiet reflection. All types of vehicles are accessible.

Call today to book an unforgettable vacation getaway!

Preferred A ccess is included w RPI Preferre ith d Gold, Resort Conn ections and RPI Pla ti membership num s. To find out how to a dd Preferred A ccess to you r membership , call 1-888-318-1 214

Experience Europe in the U.S. with RPI Would you like to drive your RV across Europe this summer and tour the continent? Of course not – the shipping alone could eat up your entire vacation budget. But, wait … why not skip the trans-Atlantic crossing and get a similar feel right here in the U.S.?

There are “Little Europe” communities all over our own country, and RPI features high-quality resorts near most of them to act as your home base … and at our trademark deep discounts. While crisscrossing America, even if you’re looking for a taste of Europe, you will see how this is truly RPI Country.

Thinking about a trip to New England? North End Boston is often called that city’s “Little Italy.” Say buon giorno to a distinctly European ambience, with narrow streets and brick buildings. The Old World feel comes through, also, in music, customs and cuisine – there are more than 100 fine Italian restaurants in the neighborhood.

Over in Wisconsin, the village of New Glarus in the picturesque hills of Green County is considered “America’s Little Switzerland.” Townsfolk will offer a hearty allegro while you indulge in the rich heritage that surrounds you with museums, shopping, lodging, dining and more. (New Glarus is home to the Swiss Center of North America.) The Alpinestyle architecture, ethnic festivals and fine delicacies celebrate all that is Swiss in North America.

Harbour Village Resort in Sturgeon Bay – 275 lushly wooded acres known as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest” – is a fantastic family destination known for its huge pool complex that includes a massive water slide. Its special weekend events are a treat throughout the summer and fall, and make for an especially memorable visit.

Quinebaug Cove Campground in Brimfield is the ideal spot to stay in the area. It sits on the 420-acre Brimfield Reservoir and guests have free boat ramp access, plus there’s a canoe trail and some of the best bass, trout, pickerel and northern pike fishing in the state.

Heading west to California, you have Solvang, the Danish Capital of America. Say goddag to this picturesque destination on the central coast of California, in the scenic Santa Barbara County wine country (with more than 80 world-class wineries and tasting rooms). Check out The Lakes, a brand new RPI Resort in Chowchilla.

Heading to the Midwest, Frankenmuth, Michigan, is known as “Little Bavaria.” You will receive a warm willkommen at this charming and pretty little town with its horse-drawn carriages, covered bridges, riverboat cruises and famous chicken dinners. And in Frankenmuth, it is Christmas time all year long.

In Oregon, there is a mix of Danish, Norwegian and other “Scandehovians” in and around Junction City.

The annual Scandinavian Festival is always the second weekend of August, come rain or shine. If you’re going to Oregon, check out the wonderful group of RPI Resorts on the Oregon beaches.

Outdoor Adventure, Inc. is an exceptional organization that has steadily grown into the premiere RV resort provider in Michigan. They have five state-of-the-art resorts with RPI, all in Michigan, and each with its own unique personality making the most of their riverfront, lakeside or wilderness locations.

Washington State features Leavenworth, another Bavarian community, just north of Seattle – don’t miss Oktoberfest, or you’ll be sorry. The RPI selections available in here are nearly endless, especially at the beach, starting in Long Beach all the way north to Blaine (Birch Bay) .

Not an RPI Mem ber?

Add RPI Basic for Only $79 or RPI P lus for $ 89

Call 1-800-63 5-8498 for infor mation You must be a or Mid-Atla NACO, LTR ntic membe r to qualify for this offe r.

Saginaw Bay Resort, Standish, MI AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

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A Taste of Europe in the U.S.:

Eight Great “European” Destinations This Side of the Atlantic

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By Lynn & Cele Seldon

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Staunton’s Beverly Street. Photo Peter Aalestad

www.tarponspringschamber.org

Skyline St. Augustine. Courtesy FloridasHistoricCoast.com

he Miriam-Webster dictionary defines ‘melting pot’ as, “A place where a variety of races, cultures, or individuals assimilate into a cohesive whole.” Nowhere is that more true than in the United States, where people from across Europe and around the world have assimilated into a colorful and flavorful blend that makes travelling our country so special. But this melting pot of a nation also serves up individual servings of specific European countries, meaning you don’t have to board a plane or ship to get a taste of Europe right in America.

Whether it’s tasting tapas or eating Greek fare with a sponge diver in Florida, seeing Shakespeare in Virginia, finding a taste of Portugal and the Azores in Massachusetts, buying lederhosen in Michigan, tasting Swiss-style beer, wine, and cheese in Wisconsin, buying Delftware in Iowa, biting into real Danish at a Danish café in California’s Solvang, or finding ‘Little Italy’ in many U.S. cities, there are lots of places in the U.S. with heavy European influences.

Row of shops, Solvang, CA. Photo courtesy SolvangUSA.com

Windmill, Solvang, CA. Photo courtesy SolvangUSA.com

Covered Bridge. Frankenmuth Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau

Goat Frolicking at Wilhelm Tell Festival. Photo Sue Moen - suepics.com

St. Augustine: Spain is in the Sunshine State With brick-paved streets and courtyards and an old Colonial Spanish Quarter, St. Augustine has some of the best examples of authentic Spanish Renaissance architecture in the United States (including some incredibly massive ones). There are 32 properties on the National Register of Historic Places and most are named for their original owners (who were mostly Spanish, of course).

Incredibly, the streets of St. Augustine (including Aviles, the oldest named street in America) were laid out by the Spanish in about 1590. The massive Castillo de San Marcos fortress built by the Spanish in 1672 dominates the downtown bayfront. Visitors will also want to check out Casa Monica Hotel, an 1888 Moorish revival ‘castle’ that’s yet another historic landmark.

As can be expected, there are several outstanding Spanish restaurants (did someone say ‘si’ to tapas?). Top tapas possibilities (and more) include The Tasting Room, Sangrias, and Columbia Restaurant (a Florida dining tradition since 1905).

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Tarpon Springs, Florida: It’s All Greek to Visitors After early settlers arrived in the 1860s, Tarpon Springs became an incorporated city in 1887—the same year the Orange Belt Railway arrived. The railroad and easy Gulf of Mexico access made Tarpon Springs popular as a winter resort and—in the late-1890s and early-20th century—a hub for sponge diving and packing…and Greek immigrants who knew their sponges.

This Florida town is now more of a Greek fishing village than can be found on many islands in Greece. Many may not know they’ve been fishing for sponges here since the late-1800s and that some still pursue their spongy prey in practically the same way today. Just ask George Billiris.

Billiris’s grandfather, John Michael, in 1935 and on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places since 1990, the historic sponge diving boat is docked on the Anclote River behind Billiris Sponge Warehouse. They offer sponge diving tours on the more modern St. Nicholas VII and still run half-hour Gulf of Mexico tours on the St. Nicholas III. Divers don traditional suits and retrieve sponges in the classic way with rakes--still using lead boots, helmets, and tubes connected to air on the surface. Though there are a few remaining sponge diving operations in Tarpon Springs, none of them do it the old-fashioned way on a classic sponge diving boat.

Along with the array of spongy offerings and much more at Billiris Sponge Warehouse, visitors will also enjoy more than 125 restaurants and shops, including the bustling Sponge Docks; great wildlife and sightseeing tours with Sun Line Cruises; the Tarpon Springs Aquarium; St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral; the Heritage Museum; and the Historic Railroad Depot.

Options for Greek fare (popular with sponge divers) include Costa’s, Hellas Restaurant & Bakery, Mama’s Greek Cuisine, and many more. Anytime’s a great time to visit Tarpon Springs, but visitors might want to consider annual events like: Epiphany (a Greek celebration of food, music, and dancing held on January 6th); April’s Fine Arts Festival; and Annual Greek Independence Day Parade (and party) every March.

Staunton, Virginia: Queen City of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley Merry Olde England and all of Great Britain is alive and well in Virginia. The Queen City of Staunton (pronounced STAN-ton) has many British accents for visitors to enjoy without crossing the Atlantic.

George is the long-time affable owner and operator of St. Nicholas Boat Lines, which was started by his father, Michael John Billiris, back in 1924. Billiris says a Greek immigrant named John Cocoris was the founder of the Tarpon Springs sponge diving industry, completing the area’s first surfacesupplied air sponge dives in 1905 (they just held their breath until then). Built in 1908, the historic Sponge Exchange-where you can still buy locally-retrieved and -processed sponges--bears a plaque honoring Cocoris and the early sponge diving exploits that would eventually make Tarpon Springs the “Sponge Capital of the World.”

With the 1935 St. Nicholas III, Billiris owns a piece of sponge diving history and now keeps it alive with tours and sponge diving demonstrations “the way they used to do it.” Built by 30

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This small city has Old Country roots, in that it was named for Lady Rebecca Staunton, wife of the Colonial Governor of Virginia, William Gooch. Scottish-Irish immigrant John Lewis built the area’s first homestead in 1732 and most of Staunton’s early settlers were Scots-Irish.

The Bard himself would certainly enjoy Staunton’s American Shakespeare Center. The focal point of this world-class performing venue is the Blackfriars Playhouse, a stunning 300-seat re-creation of the first indoor theatre in the Englishspeaking world. The acclaimed theater company performs Shakespeare’s works under their original staging conditions, including simple sets, the same lighting for audience and actors, multiple roles, and much more. The Blackfriars Playhouse is the home of the American Shakespeare Center’s

Fall River, Massachusetts: A Taste of Portugal & the Azores Visitors to Fall River will easily find the history, culture, and food of Portugal and the Portuguese islands of the Azores out in the Atlantic. Officially incorporated in 1854, but with a history dating back to the 1600s, the fascinating waterfront city of Fall River was once known for having more mills than anywhere in the nation (many built from local granite still seen throughout the city). It’s now known as having the largest percentage of people of Portuguese ancestry—almost 50 percent!

Locals feel right at home, thanks to Fall River landmarks like the Portas da Cidade. Built in 2004, it’s a replica of the main city gate Ponta Delgada—the capital of the Azores on São Miguel.

residential troupe (with performances throughout the year), as well as ASC on Tour (which takes Shakespeare and Staunton on the road).

Staunton’s walkable downtown certainly has a British feel as well. Many of the homes feature Victorian, Tudor, Gothic, and Colonial Revival styles (look for the 1920s Tudor Revival Acadia Building and the1850s Gothic Revival Trinity Episcopal Church). Just eight blocks from downtown, but perfectly appropriate for the English countryside, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage Bed & Breakfast Inn is well worth a night or two under the thatched cottage roof (and the best scones this side of the Atlantic!).

More Old World heritage discoveries await Staunton visitors at the Frontier Culture Museum.

This spacious outdoor living history museum tells the story of early immigrants with traditional rural buildings either moved or reproduced from the Old World (as well as West Africa and other parts of the U.S.). Highlights include a 1600s English farm; a 1700s Irish farm and forge; and many 1800s American buildings with Old World roots.

Appropriately dressed reenactors depict life from these earlier times and places.

For something else with a truly unique British accent, interested visitors should head a half-hour south of Staunton to Natural Bridge. There’s the famed natural stone bridge, of course, but there’s also Foamhenge—a full-size replica of Stonehenge made entirely of Styrofoam™!

The influx and influence of immigrants from Portugal and the Azores started in the 1800s with whalers and then millworkers and is still very much evident today. That’s especially true with eateries and cafés. Ironically, famed restaurateur Emeril Lagasse was born in Fall River to a Portuguese mother. He studied culinary arts at one of the local high schools and then attended Johnson & Wales in nearby Providence.

A taste of Emeril’s roots might be found at Caldeiras Restaurant, The Clipper Restaurant, The TA Tabacaria Acoreana, Fall River Grill, Cinderella’s Bakery, and many other possibilities.

Visitors will find many of these establishments are owned and operated by Azoreans and will leave with a taste of the islands—and a desire to get on a flight there or to Portugal proper.

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Vernon-like front porch. The third generation of Zehnders work to retain the Early American feel and flavor of this classic restaurant (one of America’s ten largest) and beloved bakery.

Across the street at the Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn Restaurant, the atmosphere is truly German— costumed waiters and waitresses in lederhosen and dirndls serve a selection of German entrées.

The menus of both restaurants also feature famed Frankenmuth-style chicken dinners, which includes chicken and all the fixings.

The lower level of the Bavarian Inn also features the Castle Shops The options include The Royal Gift Shop; the Doll and Toy Shop; the Court Jester’s Café & Bakery; the Chocolate Shop; Souvenirs & Cheers; the Wine & Beer Cellar; and the Nutcracker Sweet Candy Corner.

Many Portugal- and Azores-leaning events can also make for a bigger bite of Fall River—as well as in similarly influenced and tasty New Bedford (www.destinationnewbedford.org) nearby. Two possibilities include Fall River’s Great Holy Ghost Festival each August in sprawling Kennedy Park and New Bedford’s Feast of the Blessed Sacrament (billed as “The World’s Largest Portuguese Feast”). Fall River is also known as a “City of Bands” and music with a decidedly Portuguese accent can often be enjoyed. In addition, the Marine Museum at Fall River and Battleship Cove, a huge display of naval ships, are can’t-miss Fall River attractions—before or after lunch, of course.

Frankenmuth: Michigan’s Little Bavaria The décor is definitively Bavarian in Frankenmuth, thanks to the 35 carillon bells from the glockenspiel clock tower that can be heard across the village, German food and drink, and Christmas year-round at Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland. All of this—and even more—make Frankenmuth Michigan’s (and the nation’s) Little Bavaria.

Settled in 1845 by 15 people from Neuendettelsau and Rosstal in Bavaria, visitors to today’s Frankenmuth always receive a warm ‘wilkommen’ (welcome) and the village is known for its Bavarian hospitality. This is especially true at the two landmark restaurants and Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland, which anchor the town’s Bavarian village area.

Located in the old 1856 Exchange Hotel, Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth is easily recognized by its expansive Mt. 32

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Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland celebrates Christmas year-round in more than 70 languages.

The massive seven-acre complex glitters and glistens with more than 800 animated figures, 500plus styles of nativity sets, and at least 260 fullydecorated Christmas trees—361 days a year!

The success of these enterprises has lured other craftsmen and shopkeepers to this Bavarian wonderland. Cheese shops, sausage factories, a flour mill, woolen mills, historic Frankenmuth Brewery, Lager Mill (highlighting the town’s brewing heritage), and more await visitors, as do carriage tours, a paddlewheel riverboat, and an 18-hole championship golf course called, of course, The Fortress.

Many annual events are also alluring, including World Expo of Beer (May); the Bavarian Festival (June); Volksläufe (“The People’s Race,” July 4th); Oktoberfest (September); and Frankenmuth’s Annual Holiday Celebration, Candlewalk, and Christkindlmarkt (late-November).

New Glarus, Wisconsin: America’s Little Switzerland

Orange City, Iowa: Dutch Heritage & Hospitality

It’s easy to see why 190-plus immigrants from Glarus, Switzerland, fell in love with Wisconsin’s Green County in the 1840s. The green landscape most definitely does look a little like Switzerland. It didn’t hurt that the rolling hills were also perfect for cattle grazing and, ultimately, dairies and cheese. Thus, New Glarus was born—and there are still more cows then people!

Swiss heritage can be found everywhere in town, but the excellent Swiss Historical Village is a perfect place to start.

Highlights here have to include the Hall of History; a settler’s log cabin from the 1850s; a cheese factory; a sausage kitchen (sausage is also a tasty and big business in Green County); a school house; a print shop; a church and cemetery; and much more.

Cheese lovers will love New Glarus and all of Green County, thanks to Swiss cheese (naturally) and many other styles. Along with Maple Leaf Cheese & Chocolate in New Glarus, nearby towns like Monticello and Monroe (home of the National Historic Cheesemaking Center), feature cheese factories and outlets. Beer lovers will love New Glarus Brewing Company, including self-guided tours, tastings, and sales.

Orange City’s beginnings followed the first wave of Dutch immigration in the 1600s to New Amsterdam—which later became New York City. The second wave came in the 1820s, when a surge of immigrants from the Netherlands headed to Michigan and Iowa. The town of Orange City in northwest Iowa was founded by about 70 Dutch families in 1870 and it was named after William of Orange and the House of Orange in Holland.

The founding families immediately started building churches and schools, included what is now Northwestern College—the first building, Zwemer Hall, is now on the National Register of Historic Places. As the Dutch became more involved in local politics, the Sioux County seat was transferred to Orange City and the majestic Sioux County Courthouse is also on the Register.

In the 1930s, a movement began to honor the traditions and heritage of the town’s Dutch ancestors with an annual spring festival and the first Tulip Festival was in 1936. After a halt to the festivities due to World War II, the Tulip Festival was revived in 1947 and expanded to three days in 1950.

The Tulip Festival is held on the third weekend of May and includes the famed flower show, an evening performance of a Broadway play; afternoon and evening parades; a street festival (Straat Fest); Fietsen Zangers (bicycle singers honoring Holland’s bicycling-mad culture); Dutch food; dancing; and more. It typically draws more than 150,000 people!

Other possibilities in town might include the Swiss Center of North America (highlighting Swiss culture on the continent); the Chalet of the Golden Fleece Museum (featuring the collection of Edwin Barlow, founder of the Wilhelm Tell Drama highlighted below); New Glarus Cows on Parade (15 colorful fiberglass cows found throughout town); and a hopon/hop-off trolley.

Of course, special events are also alluring. There’s the Roger Bright Polka Fest (including Beer, Bacon & Cheese) and the Heidi Festival/Taste of New Glarus, which are both in June. Then there’s August’s Swiss Volkfest and, later, the Wilhelm Tell Festival, which highlights the story of Swiss independence with a live outdoor theater presentation featuring intricate costumes and a lively cast of goats, cows, horses, and people. Fall brings September’s Green County Cheese Days and Oktoberfest, Harvest Fest in October, and much more.

If visitors aren’t hungry when they get to New Glarus, they will be soon. Swiss- and Europeanleaning dining options are numerous, with tasty options including Chalet Landhaus Restaurant, Deininger’s Restaurant, Flannery’s Wilhelm Tell Club, Glarner Stube, Puempel’s Olde Tavern, and the historic New Glarus Hotel Restaurant.

AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

33

But Orange City is very Dutch year-round in other ways. The city skyline is silhouetted by windmills and there is much authentic Dutch architecture in town. Various Dutch villagestyle shopping options (like Jubon Juweelen Dutch Imports for Delftware, wooden shoes, and more) come with friendly Dutch hospitality, as does the food at Nederlanders Grille, The Hatchery, Dutch Bakery, and other tasty Orange City choices.

Solvang: California’s Little Denmark Quite simply, Solvang feels like northern Europe in the center of California thanks to three Danes. Back in 1911, three Danish-American educators discovered a place in sunny California where land was plentiful and their culture could prosper—founding Solvang (‘sunny field’ in Danish) as a 9,000-plus acre enclave in the verdant Santa Ynez Valley.

Situated just 125 miles north of Los Angeles and adjacent to the 1804 Old Mission Santa Inés (now a National Historic Landmark District), Solvang quickly thrived and settlers carried on Danish traditions of language, folk dancing, music, and cuisine. Bethania Lutheran Church, dedicated in 1928, was built in the architectural style of Denmark’s Bishop Grundtvig churches and features a wooden ship hanging from the nave, still popular with visitors today.

As the 20th century progressed and Solvang’s population grew, more buildings began to reflect the Danish farm-style architecture—the cross-beamed ‘bindingsvaerk,’ timbers framing either brick or stucco, handsomely carved eaves and doorways, and roofing of blue-green copper or thatch made of wood shingles cut jagged at the edges.

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AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

The Danish Days annual festival started in 1936 and continues to commemorate Solvang’s heritage during the third weekend of September. Other festivals and celebrations are traditional parts of Solvang’s charm—from the Taste of Solvang every March to the Old Mission Santa Inés Fiesta each August and Julefest during December.

Visitors are easily drawn into Scandinavian culture while strolling Solvang’s flower-lined streets or stepping into five authentic bakeries and more than 30 restaurants and cafés.

More than a dozen wine-tasting rooms, wine bars, and gourmet food shops tempt palates with the bounty of nearby vineyards and wineries. For the area’s freshest fruits, veggies, flowers and local items, there’s the downtown Farmers’ Market every Wednesday afternoon near Solvang Park.

Other shopping includes clogs, hand-made lace, clothing, ironwork, porcelain, elegant collectibles, beautifully crafted imports, vibrant arts and crafts, furnishings, and classic toys.

Solvang’s highly successful Centennial Celebration throughout 2011 featured many special events—highlighted by a return royal visit of Henrik, His Royal Highness The Prince Consort of Denmark. While there, he dedicated Centennial Plaza—the starting point of The Heritage Trail, which honors institutions, attractions, industries, and points of interest that tell the educational and entertaining story of Solvang’s rich heritage (including the not-to-be-missed Elverhoj Museum of History & Art). Just as it does in Copenhagen, Denmark’s national symbol the “Little Mermaid” bronze sculpture (a half-size authorized replica) welcomes visitors at the intersection of Mission Drive and Alisal Road. n

For more information visit: www.floridashistoriccoast.com www.tarponspringschamber.com www.visitstaunton.com www.fallriverma.org www.frankenmuth.org www.swisstown.com www.orangecityiowa.com www.solvangusa.com

A TASTE OF EUROPE If you’re planning on experiencing Europe in America plan a stay with us. See page 42 for great deals.

Fall River, MA

• Gateway to Cape Cod Rochester, MA

• Old Chatham Road RV Resort South Dennis, MA

• Sturbridge

Sturbridge, MA

Staunton, VA

• Chesapeake Bay Gloucester, VA

• Harbor View

Colonial Beach, VA

• Lynchburg Gladys, VA

• Williamsburg

Williamsburg, VA

Solvang, CA

• Soledad Canyon Acton, CA

• Pacific Dunes Oceano, CA

• Rancho Oso

Santa Barbara, CA

New Glarus, WI • Arrowhead

Wisconsin Dells, WI

• Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Fremont, WI

• Plymouth Rock Plymouth, WI

• Yukon Trails

Lyndon Station, WI

Frankenmuth, MI • St. Clair

St. Clair, MI

Tarpon Springs, FL • Barrington Hills Hudson, FL

• Winter Quarters Pasco Lutz, FL

St. Augustine, FL • Bulow Plantation Flagler Beach, FL

• Sunshine Holiday

Winter Quarters Pasco Sturbridge

Ormond Beach, FL

Soledad Canyon

Plymouth Rock

AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

35

Wat s Lak on e

YUKON Liard

By L ynn &

ve o Cele f Se ldon

Fort N

elson

R.

Fort N

a Lif etim e

elso

n

Willis to

n

Hud

son ’ Hop s e

Fort St. Jo h

Daw so Cree n k

Milepost 0 Dawson Creek Background photo: City of Whitehorse Cityscape – Yukon Territory, Canada Courtesy of City of Whitehorse Photo above: Dawson Creek mile 0 B.C. Canada Photo by Carmen Williams Photography Photo right top: Fort Nelson Museum – B.C. Canada Photo by J.F. Bergeron/ Enviro Foto Photo right bottom: Liard Hot Springs mile 496-2 B.C. Canada Photo by Carmen Williams Photography 36

AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

n

ALBERTA

ALA SKA HIG The HWAY Dri

N.W.T.

R.

T

here may be no better drive in the world than the fabled Alaska Highway. Officially stretching more than 1,350 miles from Canada to the heart of Alaska, the Alaska Highway—also referred to as the ALCAN Highway—is simply one of those experiences that people talk about for years after their trip…and immediately start talking about when they can drive it again!

The history of the Alaska Highway is as fascinating as the actual drive. In fact, 2012 marks the 70th anniversary of the official opening of the highway connecting The Lower 48, Canada, and Alaska by roadway.

Though the concept of the Alaska Highway had always been a possibility, it took the attack on Pearl Harbor and World War II to put possible plans into action. This was because the United States desperately needed a supply route to Alaska as part of the Pacific Theater war effort.

Once funding was approved by Congress, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and the U.S. Army in February, 1942, construction of the Alaska Highway by the Army occurred incredibly quickly. Road work in wilderness conditions officially began in early March near what is now Historical Milepost 0 in Canada’s Dawson Creek, British Columbia, with construction at the other end in Alaska’s Delta Junction proceeding at a swift pace as well The crews met in late September at Historical Mile 588 (now Contact Creek) near Canada’s British Columbia-Yukon border and the Alaska Highway was officially completed in late October. It was dedicated on November 20, 1942 at Soldiers Summit (Historical Milepost 1061) In its early years, the Alaska Highway was mainly used by the military and a few intrepid travelers.

The initial publication of The MILEPOST® (see “Must-Have” sidebar) in 1949—and still published annually today—exposed many more people to the possibility of driving the legendary highway. Because of road straightening and other changes over the years, Historical Milepost numbers don’t relate to actual mileages—yet another reason to buy and use The MILEPOST!

Driving the Alaska Highway during those early years meant lots of gravel, frost heave, and long drives with limited services or no services (extra gas cans and tires were the norm). Today, it’s 100 percent paved (except for road work maintenance) and it’s generally like driving any secondary road in North America—except for many more awe-inspiring views, wildlife, and experiences per mile.

Milepost 300 Fort Nelson

Milepost 497 Liard River Hotsprings

AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

37

Historical Milepost 0 in Dawson Creek is the start of about 610 miles through beautiful British Columbia (BC Highway 97 North). Then, it’s about 575 miles on Yukon Highway 1 through the Yukon Territory to the Alaska border. It’s another 200 miles to the official end of the drive at Delta Junction, but many consider the true end of the Alaska Highway to be in Fairbanks, another 100 stunning miles to the northwest.

All those miles may make RVers worry about their gas budget, but MILEPOST Editor Kris Valencia says travelling the Alaska Highway is worth the price and the memories are worth the mileage. “Although we cover some 14,000 miles of road for The MILEPOST each year, the bulk of my annual mileage can be attributed to commuting around Anchorage,” she says. “There are economies in long road trips.”

Valencia recommends planning itineraries ahead of time to save on wasted miles. RVers with tow vehicles or those pulling trailers will find extended parking available if they want to leave the big rig behind for a side trip or a memorable

wilderness lodge stay. She also says RVers can consider other forms of travel in the North Country—like the ferry and rail routes found in both Alaska and Canada.

The economies of an Alaska Highway road trip also include lots of facilities along the way catering to RVers. There are many classic places to camp along the way (including the excellent park systems in both Canada and Alaska), but there are also some great lodges and more that welcome RVers looking for something different. The possibilities include Dawson Creek’s Aurora Park Inn; Northern Rockies Lodge (owned by a bush pilot who also offers flightseeing, remote cabins, an RV park, and more) in Muncho Lake; Muktuk Adventures & Guest Ranch, a working sled dog ranch near Whitehorse; Kluane Bed & Breakfast (with great cabins), adjacent to Kluane National Park and Reserve near Haines Junction; Tok’s Burnt Paw & Cabins Outback (home of Alaska sled dogs); historic Log Cabin Wilderness Lodge south of Tok; and Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge and River’s Edge Resort in Fairbanks.

Background photo: Teslin Bridge mile 804 Yukon, Canada Photo by Carmen Williams Photography Photo below: Sign Post Forest – Watson Lake, Yukon, Canada Photo by Carmen Williams Photography Photos right: -Kluane National Park and Reserve – Yukon Territory, Canada Photo by YG F. Mueller

Milepost 635 Signpost Forest (background photo)

Milepost 804 Teslin bridge 38

AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Along with world-class wildlife viewing possibilities (from bird watching to bears to bison and much more), Alaska Highway highlights have to include Dawson Creek (Milepost 0 and the Alaska Highway House); Fort Nelson; Liard River Hotsprings; Watson Lake’s Signpost Forest (a collection of 70,000plus signs left by Alaska Highway travelers); Whitehorse, capital of the Yukon Territory; Haines Junction, near Kluane National Park and Reserve and Mount Logan, Canada’s highest peak; Alaska’s fascinating Tok and Delta Junction (the official end of the Alaska Highway); and, though technically not part of the Alaska Highway, Fairbanks…a great base for many more Alaska adventures!

For further information about driving the Alaska Highway and more, visit: British Columbia’s www.hellobc.com; the Yukon Territory’s www.travelyukon.com; and Alaska’s www. travelalaska.com.

The MILEPOST: A North Country & Alaskan Highway ‘Must-Have’ First published in 1949 and better than ever on an annual basis, The MILEPOST (www.themilepost.com; 800-726-4707) is simply a ‘must-have’ when it comes to driving the Alaska Highway— and practically anywhere else in the North Country. The 2012 64th edition contains 784 info-packed pages and features 100plus maps, their famed “Plan-A-Trip” map, 60 side trips, ferry travel information, and detailed coverage of 30 major routes in all (including more than 100 pages on the Alaska Highway alone) Long-time and loyal Thousand Trails members Vern and Beth Pich of Brantford, Ontario, Canada recently drove the Alaska Highway (a gift from their children to celebrate their 50th anniversary) and Vern says, “We found The MILEPOST book to be invaluable because it provides a mile by mile detail of the Highway with wayside stops, communities, service centres, campgrounds, attractions, and even rough spots in the road.”

The road warrior editors (like Milepost editor Kris Valencia) also maintain a Facebook page (www.facebook.com/TheMilepost) and blog about their travels and research on the website. In addition, a free digital edition of The Milepost is available to those who purchase the print edition!

Editor’s Note: Frequent TrailBlazer contributors Lynn and Cele Seldon are driving the Alaska Highway in its entirety this summer and will file a full report of their experiences for a future issue.

Milepost 916 Kluane National Park Ver n & B e

th Pich

AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

39

YOUR TECH QUESTIONS, ANSWERED!

Q:

“

„

HI BILL, I HAVE A 2005 HITCHHIKER FIFTH WHEEL THAT HAS DEVELOPED ...

... a water leak in the bottom of the bedroom slide. The caulking between the bottom angle iron and the window side of the slide had evidently dried out and allowed rainwater (and the very occasional wash water) to enter the bottom of the slide. I discovered this when I retrieved some magazines I had stored in the “little cubby hole” between the bed and the side of the slide.

They were quite damp. I re-caulked every seam I could find but the “damage” was done. In operating the slide it would bind up 2/3 on the way in. I’d reverse it a few inches and try again.

With this stop and go process it eventually came in all the way.

There was no problem with it going out. Returning home from snowbirding last month the slide completely bound up and would not go out. Fortunately it went back in the few inches it was out. When I got home, I removed everything from under the bed, thinking maybe that was the problem. It went out, but very jerkily. I finally got it out and checked the outside to see if there was anything visible. I saw three, three-inch screws just barely hanging from their holes in the angle iron, each one bent about 45 degrees. After removing the screws I operated the slide, in and out, six or seven times with no problems. I contacted the local RV repair in our community and the technician told me to just ignore it and that it was not a problem. I am unsure of what could happen if I opt to leave well enough alone or should I take it to a repair facility where the slide can be pulled and the proper repair done? I’m sure this would cost big bucks. Also, if I do nothing, is there a possibility that the slide could get stuck half way out?

Thanks, Tom Rogers

Q:

“

„

DEAR BILL, WE HAVE A 2006 TROPICAL LX ...

...motorhome. Our horn has stopped working.

We have called Freightliner for assistance and they told us a couple of things to try i.e. fuses, and also to check the relay. When we press the city horn it blows the fuse.

Any suggestions?

John & Rochelle Zukas West Palm Beach, FL 40

AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

A: Hello, Tom.

It sounds like it has been tough to get a good answer to your problem. I don’t think you need a repair facility for now but I’m not sure that I have enough info to provide you with the exact correct answer, but I’ll do what I can to help advise you as much as possible. Do you think the screws came out because of dry rot? I’m unclear of where exactly the angle iron you described is located. If the screws no longer hold, reinstall them with epoxy resin so they are less likely to fall out again and interfere with the slide room functions. Check all the other screws to make sure they are not on their way to creating another problem for you as well. You can install additional screws in between the existing screw holes to get a better bite into the wood so that the angle iron has more of a chance to stay in place. In the future, keep a close eye on that section to be sure you are aware if things begin to change. If the dry rot gets worse or if you don’t think this is the problem at all, you might consider getting help from a professional who can inspect the problem in person. Best of luck!

A:

Hi John and Rochelle, You mentioned that it was recommended that you check the relay—I have to assume that it was good? Here are a few other things to check. Locate the horn and remove the wire. Replace the fuse and depress the city horn button. If the fuse does not blow, your horn is shorted out and will require replacement. You can purchase a new 12-volt horn at most auto part stores. If the fuse blows, this indicates that the horn is not the problem. You will need to check the wire from the relay to the horn to see if it has shorted out. Do this by removing the wire from the relay and retesting. Next, you will need to check the wire from the horn button to the relay with a V.O.M. meter to check if it has shorted to ground. There is a possibility of a problem in the horn button itself inside the steering wheel. If you eliminate the other factors, you will need to check the steering wheel as the possible culprit.

Q:

Q:

“

„

IN THE RECENT JUNE ISSUE OF TRAILBLAZER I READ WHERE AN RVer WAS HAVING ...

...problems with slow drainage and a foul odor coming from the freshwater tank. I read the answer where you suggested the use of lemon juice to help avoid build up and knock down unwanted odors. How much lemon juice would you suggest?

Thanks, JD Arellano San Fernando, California

A: JD, The question and answer you are referring to from the June TrailBlazer issue was a discussion about the P-Trap in the galley sink—not the freshwater tank. However, to answer that part of your question, I suggest using 1/8 of a cup of lemon juice and allow it to sit in the trap for 24 hours. I do have a solution for your inquiry regarding the odor that is coming from your freshwater tank. Put 1/4 cup of bleach per 30 gallons in the freshwater tank. Fill the tank to the top. Then run the water pump to purge the water lines and the water heater. Let the water that has been treated sit for four hours and then drain the tank and the water lines as well as the water heater. Fill the water tank, mix ½ cup of baking soda in hot water and dump it into the tank. Run fresh water through the lines and the water heater. The bleach should kill any algae in the system and the baking soda will freshen things up. Be sure the baking soda is fully dissolved, as it can cause damage to the pump. I hope this info will be helpful in “clearing the air”.

“

„

BILL, WE HAVE A 2004 TROPICAL MOTORHOME AND ARE HAVING ...

...problems with the bedroom slide out. The mechanism is under the bed. The slide out will often sheer a pin when it is going in or out. The gear rack is a product of R.B.W. Industries. Can you offer any help in solving our problem?

Tommy Trapp Cumming, GA

A: Tommy, I’m not sure which slide room mechanism you have.

National RV used several different mechanisms. Powergear has purchased R.B.W. in case you need to get replacement parts or seek further assistance in diagnosing your problem.

Has the pin been replaced with the correct pin? All pins are not alike. The most common way to sheer a pin is if the slide out is binding. Listen to the motor when in use to notice if it is struggling as you move the slide room in or out. If you think it is binding, the slide is in need of adjustment or replacement of a defective part. Measure the slide room where it runs through the opening in the wall and be sure that there is adequate space on all sides of each wall as well as the floor. Remove the paneling under the bed to expose the slide out mechanism. Inspect all gears and tracks for excess wear. Check all of the bolts to insure that they are tight and check the alignment of the motor as well. Have a helper run the slide room in and out while you watch the mechanism and all slide room parts for binding. Hopefully, the problem will be relatively obvious and that your slide room will be back on track in no time!

GOT A QUESTION FOR BILL? SEND AN EMAIL TO AskRVBill@equitylifestyle.com

Bill Gehr The back of our RV reads, “We haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on our list!” After owning and operating Bill’s RV Service in Ventura, CA for 34 years, Bill Gehr and his wife, Jenn, are now living the dream of the full-time RV lifestyle. Bill is a Master RV Technician and has starred in the DVD series The ABC’s of RVs, and RV Today on RFDTV. As a team, Bill and Jenn Gehr are technical contributors for a myriad of RV magazines and travel the USA with their two Boston Bulldogs and are avid cyclists and hikers.

AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER 41

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42

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Rates do not include taxes. Amenities vary by resort. Cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions. Rates exclusively for members of Thousand Trails, NACO, Mid-Atlantic, Leisure Time and Outdoor World. Offer not valid on holidays and special events; certain restrictions may apply. Two week maximum stay per resort at discounted rate.

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46

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WWW.RVONTHEGO.COM

1-888-443-7301

*Subject to availability. Reservations required. Rates based on a standard site. Stays of 30 days or less are subject to $3 per day resort fee. Electric not included for stays of 30 days or longer. Rates do not include taxes. Amenities vary by resort. Cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions. Rates exclusively for members of Thousand Trails, AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER 47 NACO, Mid-Atlantic, Leisure Time and Outdoor World. Offer not valid on holidays and special events; certain restrictions may apply. Valid on new reservations only.

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MEMBER DEALS RETAILER DISCOUNTS Thousand Trails has partnered with a number of popular brands to provide you with exclusive members-only savings. Below you will find our latest special offers available to you. Please log into the member section of the Thousand Trails website at www.ThousandTrails.com to take advantage of these great deals!

Exclusive Coleman Discount Thousand Trails members can now save 15% on their online purchases of tents, camping stoves and more!

Exclusive Hertz Program When you rent with Hertz, you can take advantage of special year-round savings through the Hertz Membership Benefits Program. By using the Thousand Trails discount code, you can save whether you reserve online or by phone.

Exclusive iDine Savings Simply register any credit or debit card and dine at a restaurant on the program. Afterwards, complete a quick dining review about your experience within 30 days. The more you dine, the higher the percentage you can earn, up to 15%! Visit www.idine.com/trailblazer for details and to enroll.

MyRVMarket.com - RV Parts & Accessories 10% off all your purchases for the first year! Get all of your RV supplies and Lifestyle products all in one great store at an affordable price. We look to make your RV experience the best it can be. That’s why we offer great products at great prices delivered to your doorstep.

Over 1,000 valuable products for your RV, Boat or Home and growing every day! Sign in as a Travelers Club Member and get additional savings with travel and special promotions all year. MyRVMarket is the Exclusive Distributor of the powerful and environmentally safe Nature-Zyme products. Join the Travelers Club today at MyRVMarket.com and see what’s in it for you!

NationalPetPharmacy.com Trusted by veterinarians and pet lovers alike, NationalPetPharmacy.com is fully licensed and Vet-VIPPS certified for safety as well as quality. Our FDA/EPA approved pet meds are the same ones you get from your vet – but conveniently delivered to your door. Thousand Trails members save $5 on a $20 order with promo code: BLAZER5 PetFoodDirect.com 15% off your order of $49 or more. Get all your pet’s food and supplies delivered to your door with PetFoodDirect.com’s Auto Ship program. It’s the easiest way to shop for all the top brands of pet food (137 brands and counting!), flea & tick preventatives, treats, toys, cat litter, crates, collars, beds, bowls, pet meds, and so much more (16,000 top-quality pet products in all)! (This coupon is valid on everything in our store, except: vet diet foods, prescription and free shipping items, and gift certificates. One time use per customer. Only one promotion code can be applied per order. Not for use with any loyalty or other reward websites.) Discount Code: BLAZER15 Rand McNally The first GPS designed specifically for RVers. Special member discount. Thousand Trails is offering our members a special discount offer on all Rand McNally RVND GPS products.

Visit www.randmcnally.com/ELS for more information.

TCI Thousand Trails members receive discounts on Michelin tires through the Equity LifeStyle Properties Advantage program currently in place with TCI. TT members should call 1-888532-6435 and reference the Equity Advantage program to receive discounts.

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AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

CLUB CALENDAR AUGUST 2012 TT SINGLES Central California August 24-26: Snowflower, CA September 28-30: Morgan Hill, CA Contact Jane Davis at (209) 467-3278 or email to janedjd@pacbell.net; Becky Staffeld at (408) 253-6995 or email to bstaffeld@att.net.

Northwest August 24-26: Pacific City, OR September 28-30: Cultus Lake, BC, Canada Contact: Director Dewey Erlwein at (360) 880-7443 or email to derlwein@peoplepc.com; Winnie Hoyteniuk at (604) 858-9757 or email to winnie@smartt.com (British Columbia); Daphne Bailey at (503) 590-8566 or email to daphnebailey07@comcast.net (Oregon); or Linda Christofferson at (360) 653-3648 (Washington).

FMCA Lewis & Clark August 14-17: Leavenworth, WA September 16-20: Bend/Sunriver, OR (Planning Meeting) We are members of TTN and FMCA who meet once a month at various Washington and Oregon preserves.

New members who are members of TTN and FMCA are always welcome. Contact Roger Beausoleil at (503) 390-4753 or Schar Olsen at (253) 208-0553 for more information about our fun activities.

Southwest August 17-19: Oakzanita, CA September 21-23: Pio Pico, CA Contact Babe Bohner at (909) 797-6437 FUN NITES Fun Nites are social gatherings organized by and for TTN members.

Eugene/Springfield Area Round-a-Bouters group For more information call Merry Klum (541) 726-7586 or Leona Todd (541) 844-4277 Pacific City Pacific City Ramblers Ramblers meet the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 5 p.m. at Home Town Buffet in the Tigard Market Place, 13500 SW Pacific Highway, Tigard, Oregon. Contact Charlie Buren at (503) 705-1587, Chickie Dientsel at (503) 286-8566 or Suzy Mulbey at (503) 678-2993. All Portland-area TT, NACO and LTR members welcome.

PRESERVE HIGHLIGHTS

TTN So Cal Weekenders August 3-5: Idyllwild, CA September 7-9: Pio Pico, CA We are a group of TTN members who meet once a month at Southern California preserves. All ages welcome; we have both working and retired members.

No dues, just fellowship. email: ttnweekenders@earthlink.net website: http://home.earthlink.net/~ttnweekenders/ TT Travelers August 6-8: Idyllwild, CA September 10-12: Oakzanita, CA We are retired residents of Southern California who are TTN members. We meet monthly at a Southern California preserve for fellowship, games and potlucks.

Please call Darlene Steddum at (805) 714-9038 or email to darjerste@juno.com or Sharon Straite at (562) 899-8298 or email to lesstraite@verizon.net if you are interested in information about our group.

TTWest/FMCA September 11-13: Russian River, CA (Weekday Rally) Members of Thousand Trails and FMCA meet at Northern California Preserves bimonthly, except for the “no-host get-together” at Palm Springs Preserve immediately following the FMCA Western Area Rally in Indio, California. Contact Bob Litfin at (408) 2266529 or email to clitfin@USA.com. Reservations are required two weeks in advance.

TT of Texas/FMCA September 7-10: Lake Whitney, TX New members must be a member of TTN and FMCA. Contact Connie Farrar at (817) 454-4612 or email to ttnfmcachapter@gmail.com.

Our website is: ttnoftexasfmca.com. We also have a blog site: www.ttfmcaralliesandmore.blogspot.com Bounders United (“BUTTN”) Campouts: August 28-31: Seaside, OR Wagonmaster will be Tom & Pat Kennedy. “Bounders United/TTN” are TTN members who own Bounder motorhomes and belong to Bounders United. For more information, contact Thomas Kennedy at (360) 7944903 or email at BUTTNs231@gmail.com.

TT East Trail Buddies We are an FMCA chapter exclusively for TT Members.

We have three rallies each year at TT preserves on the East Coast. For more information, please contact Club Secretary Peter Kamenik at (410) 287-8440 or email to trailbuddiestteast@gmail.com

AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

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116 Carefree RV Resorts........................49 120 Countryside Interiors.......................63 106 DirectSat TV....................................65 104 Equity LifeStyle..........................42-47 129 FirstStreet/WOW Computer �������������2 118 FirstStreet/Perfect Choice................24 159 FirstStreet/Jitterbug.........................68 132 GEICO.............................................67 133 PA RV Show....................................64 170 TCI Tire Centers/Michelin..............65 Answers on page 64

ACROSS 1 Baseball equipment 4 Turk. title 8 Bird 12 Shoshonean 13 Husband of Ruth 14 Hatred (Ital.)

15 Dog 16 Lot 18 Hindu god of love 20 Small pit 21 Amer. Bar Assn. (abbr.)

23 String of mules 27 Both 32 Uttered 33 N.Z. woody vine 34 Relax (2 words) 36 Viper 37 Tip 39 Hive (2 words) 41 At the age of (Lat.) 43 Interstate Commerce Commission (abbr.)

44 Black tea 48 Mayan year 51 Soft 55 Inlet 56 Revelry cry 57 Letter 58 Legal proof 59 Lope 60 Growl 61 Ember

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AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

DOWN 1 Cowboy’s nickname 2 Polynesian god 3 Shrew 4 Camel hair cloth 5 Spoken alphabet letter 6 Circle of light 7 Black Sea arm 8 Vegetable 9 Dutch commune 10 Own (Scot.)

11 Allotment 17 Hyson 19 Presidential nickname 22 Atlantic (abbr.)

24 Monkey puzzle 25 Swiss card game 26 Gr. leather flask 27 Weaverbird 28 Migratory worker 29 Hebrew (abbr.)

30 Summer (Fr.) 31 Deplore 35 Greek letter 38 Pad 40 Scot. exclamation 42 Digit 45 Loom 46 Black 47 Alberta (abbr.)

49 Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (abbr.)

50 Hit 51 Large (pref.)

52 Polynesian drink 53 Law (Fr.) 54 Shak. contraction

Answers on page 64

T

he Thousand Trails gear shop is officially up, running and ready for your orders! Head on over to the Lifestyle section of MyRVMarket. com to see all of the great Thousand Trails gear.

From sweatshirts to hats, sunglasses to dog leashes, we have the entire family covered. Don’t forget to use the promo code TTGear25 to receive 25% off your first TT gear order! TrailBlazer will be highlighting various merchandise each month so stay tuned to see what we have coming up next!

NEWS&NOTES FROM THE PRESERVES

Bay Landing Bay Landing is in the process of putting new screens on the cabins.

Birch Bay Birch Bay is renovating their Welcome Center which includes creating a new location to serve you better.

Chehalis Chehalis has new furniture at the Adult and Family pool.

Chestnut Lake The pool has been resurfaced at Chestnut Lake and a new fence now surrounds the pool, plus the Meeting Hall has a fresh coat of paint.

Colorado River Colorado River has been working on getting two new grinder pumps installed in the main lift station between C&D loops. Repair and painting to the picnic tables continues.

Gateway to Cape Cod There are new windows and doors in the Rec Hall at Gateway to Cape Cod – the old sliding doors have been removed and replaced with double-hung windows.

Harbor View Electrical improvements in B-Section are complete at Harbor View and the miniature golf course is being removed and a new course is going in soon! The boat slip docks are being repaired. Pool hours for adult swim are now 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Idyllwild Idyllwild is now set up for Horse Camping – call preserve for details.

News & Notes continued on page 62 AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

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Preserve Services Directory* | August 2012 PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY - NORTHWEST

NORTHWEST

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage for $60 per month. Get two free months with our yearly rate of $600.

BEND/SUNRIVER | 541-593-8494

SOUTH JETTY 541-997-8296 (Preserve Office) 541-997-8333 (Rentals)

OREGON

Annual/Extended Stay - We still have some open sites available for annual use. Stop worrying about space available in beautiful Bend/Sunriver with your own site and come and enjoy all we have to offer year-round. From skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling in the winter to fishing, hiking and festivals in the summer. Please call Bobbie or Julie at the Preserve.

Short-Term Rental - Cabins, cottages and yurts available for rent yearround, call for quote.

Special Events - Perfect location for your family reunions, rallies and birthday picnics. Packages are available for renting our winter lodge for that special birthday. The main lodge is available for weddings, banquets and conferences. We also welcome ski clubs and snowmobile clubs. Call Anne or send email to besh@equitylifestyle.com.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Off-site storage available year-round. Call the preserve for information.

PACIFIC CITY 503-965-6200 (Preserve Office) 503-965-6442 (Ranger Station)

Annual/Extended Stay - No longer a need to move your RV off-site for one or more years, plus the flexibility to occupy the unit up to 210 nights without contract use restrictions and then stay longer with reservations.

Decorate your preferred site or add a storage shed if desired. Order your new Cavco Cedar Cabin and custom design the interior, select your preferred campsite and schedule delivery. Financing available. Contact Ginny to make an appointment.

Special Events - Awesome coastal weather, beach access, clamming, crabbing, beach-combing, professional and friendly service, campsites, rental units and gazebo. We host parties, club rallies, reunions, weddings and retreats for all group outings. A group consists of 4 or more campsites/rentals or any combination thereof. Contact the preserve for more information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Save on gas and take advantage of our RV storage program. $50 for 4 weeks, $300 for 26 weeks or $550 for 52 weeks. Dry storage space is limited.

SEASIDE 503-738-0626 (Preserve Office) 503-738-5292 (Rentals)

Annual/Extended Stay - The Oregon Coast! Enjoy your own personal site for your RV. Home base for full-timers, improved landscape options available, personalize your site – add a storage shed and/or deck. You no longer need to move your RV. Call Christopher or Barry at the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - Discounted short-term rentals available for two week and monthly stays. Great rates for Monday-Thursday mid-week stays. Call for our current specials. Our cabins are available all year long.

Special Events - Family reunions, RV rallies, church events, weddings or business meetings. Call Barry at the preserve.

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AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Annual/Extended Stay - Extended Stay program now available. Use it any 210 days and store your rig year-round. Contact Preserve Manager for details.

Short-Term Rental - Yurts, cabins and trailers available to fit your budget.

Special Events - Our heavily wooded preserve is located just 55 miles west of Eugene on the beautiful Oregon coast. The Oregon Sand Dunes Recreational Park is just a few minutes from our preserve. South Jetty is a perfect place for your reunion, company picnic, rally, wedding or business meeting. Call preserve for more details.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Call the preserve for information.

WHALERS REST 541-867-6078 (Preserve Office) 541-867-3100 (Storage)

Annual/Extended Stay - Enjoy the beautiful Oregon Coast on your own personal site at Whalers Rest. Leave your rig year-round and occupy up to 210 days per year. Don’t have an RV or want a “vacation home”? We have former vacation rental trailers available for purchase and placement in the personal site program. Call Denise or Shari at the preserve for more information.

Special Events - Beautiful setting on the central Oregon coast, 18 rental units, including two new cabins and a very large garden home. Large meeting area and kitchen facilities. Parties and meetings of all sizes. Call preserve for details. SuperHost not available June 15-Sept. 15.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Call the preserve for information.

WASHINGTON

BIRCH BAY | 360-371-7432

Annual/Extended Stay - Play by the bay longer with stays beyond your membership days and enjoy the sun, not the grays, at Birch Bay. Space may still be available for your Personal Site. Purchase a vacation home, while they last, or bring your own. Monthly stays limited and also available at just $450 month, plus utilities. Come experience the beauty of the true Northwest.

Contract Chandra at the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Please call for dry storage availability.

CHEHALIS | 360-262-9489

Annual/Extended Stay - Enjoy your own year-round private site in beautiful Chehalis. There’s no need to move your RV off-site. You can occupy your site for 210 days without reservations and then stay longer with reservations.

Contract Brenda Roza for an appointment.

Short-Term Rental - We have monthly rentals for 1-4 months for $475 per month, plus utilities. We also have rental cabins and trailers offering daily and weekly rates.

Special Events - Perfect venue for your family reunion, church campout, picnic, party, school event or retreat. Rental units, RV sites, picnic areas, *Information subject to change

On-Site/Dry Storage - Storage: $45 per month or $180 for 6 months. Call Ranger Don.

CRESCENT BAR | 509-787-4349

On-Site/Dry Storage - Limited dry storage. Call the preserve for information.

GRANDY CREEK | 360-826-3554

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual site available! $2,600, please call the preserve for details.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Off-site storage available on a limited basis. Call the preserve for information.

LA CONNER | 360-466-3112

Annual/Extended Stay - Your very own site on our beautiful resort is waiting for you. Spend your free time on the Skagit Bay, walking on the beach, photographing the resident Bald Eagles, and relaxing in our spa. We have limited sites available so hurry and get one now for the summer season.

Our Annual Program now has 210-day usage. Please call Nancy or Matthew at the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - Leave your RV at home and come stay in our comfortable Panabode Cedar Cabins. Full kitchen, sleeps 6. Call preserve to make reservations. Please call Nancy or Matthew at the preserve.

Special Events - The perfect place for a reunion, retreat, church group, birthday party, wedding, RV rally, or corporate/business meeting or party.

Great rental units, facilities and food. Call the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage Only - please call the preserve for information.

LEAVENWORTH 509-763-2020 | 800-353-1700

Annual/Extended Stay - Leavenworth still has many beautiful sites available to call your own. Please call the preserve manager for more information.

Short-Term Rental - We have monthly stays for 1-6 months at $500 a month, plus utilities. Come enjoy Leavenworth and all its beauty.

Special Events - We’ve got the perfect venue for a fun-filled family reunion or a relaxing club/church retreat. Call or send e-mail to lemgr@equitylifestyle.com.

On-Site/Dry Storage - RV Dry Storage available for $5 per day, $30 per week or $75 per month. Call or send e-mail to lemgr@equitylifestyle.com.

LITTLE DIAMOND | 800-994-6654

Annual/Extended Stay - Stay in sunny, beautiful Eastern Washington!

Annual and extended stay sites available. Call Mike at the preserve.

Special Events - Granite Lodge: Two full kitchens, dining for large groups, sleeps 20+, adjacent RV and tent sites, spa and sauna, satellite TV. Contact preserve for more information.

LONG BEACH | 360-642-3091

Annual/Extended Stay - Only minutes away from the grand Pacific Ocean, surrounded by gorgeous nature and a rich history of pioneers past. Don’t miss out on your chance to have your own place at the beach. You can have your own personal RV site where your rig can stay year-round and you can occupy your rig for 210 days of the year! No more hassle storing your rig and just think of all the money you will save on gas. We are also introducing a special 3-month rate during the off-season. Stay 3 months for only $350 per month or $500 per month during peak season. Call Kate at the preserve for details.

PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY - NORTHWEST

catering, day-use activities and amenities can be all yours with our SuperHost program. Our lodge is available off-season for weddings, banquets, parties, retreats, or conferences. Call preserve or send email chba@equitylifestyle. com.

Short-Term Rental - Feel at home in one of our Vacation Trailers or Thousand Trails Cabins. Start planning now! The summer will be over before you know it and we don’t want you to miss out on all the great festivities and events here on the Long Beach Peninsula. Call the preserve for rates.

Special Events - Planning a reunion, wedding, special event or a trip with a bunch of friends and family? Long Beach is the place for you! We have plenty of RV and tent sites as well as cabins and trailers available for rent. We are right off the beach and close to historic downtown Long Beach. For more information, call Kate at the Preserve Office.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Save on gas with our dry storage sites. Available year-round at the low price of $50 a month or get two months free when you sign up for a year for only $500. Call the Preserve Office for details.

MT. VERNON | 360-724-4811

Annual/Extended Stay - Come enjoy our preserve with beautiful forest settings and views of the mountains where wildlife parade through. Relax in your own personal site now up to 210 days. Walk the trails or relax in the large swimming pool and spa. Please call Kelly King at the preserve to get your site.

Special Events - Perfect site with all amenities – we do it all! For any of your SuperHost needs, all events, weddings, anniversaries, reunions, rallies, birthdays, banquets and more, with catering available. Call Cookie at the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Call Donna at the preserve. Short term also available when you are taking a cruise.

OCEANA | 360-289-3504

Annual/Extended Stay - Walk down to the beach for some quiet time away from all the hustle and bustle. Park your RV 12 months at Oceana. Stay up to 210 days a year with no time out. For the BEST PRICE on the WA coast for a full hook-up site with 50-amp power call Dale Graham at the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - A limited number of sites are available starting at $350 per month, plus elec. for the summer season. Call Dale Graham at the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - RV Storage $40 per month without electric (dry) or $50 per month with electric (limited sites with electricity and may be subject to availability).

PARADISE 360-985-2121 (Preserve Office) 360-985-2756 (Ranger Station)

Annual/Extended Stay - Save on fuel, extend your stay at Paradise for $550 per month, or consider leaving your rig year-round with an annual lease. Call the preserve for more information.

Special Events - Starting to think about your family and friends gatherings?

For more information call the preserve.

AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

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On-Site/Dry Storage - RV Storage $40 per month without electric (dry) or $50 per month with electric (limited sites with electricity and may be subject to availability).

PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY - SOUTHWEST

TALL CHIEF | 425-222-0778

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual lease as low as $2,195 per year (not including electricity). Keep your trailer/rig or motorhome on a site for 365 days per year! Please contact Preserve Manager for more details.

THUNDERBIRD 360-794-4030 (Preserve Office) 360-794-8987 (Ranger Station)

Short-Term Rental - Stay in the preserve on a month-to-month basis for as low as $575 per month, including water and electricity. We also have rental cabins!! Daily, weekly and by the month. Please contact the Preserve Manager at for more information.

Special Events - Our Timber Lodge is available for your special event. Tall Chief is a great place to hold your next Rally or group event. Call for details.

Annual/Extended Stay - We are now open year-round and have Annual Sites available. Come stay with us and explore the beautiful state of Washington. We also offer the Extended Stay Program at $575 per month, plus $35 electric fee. If interested, please call the Preserve Office.

Short-Term Rental - Four (4) TT Rental Cabins available. For special offseason rates, please call the Preserve Office.

Special Events - We welcome Family Reunions, SuperHost Groups, Weddings, etc. Please call the Preserve Office for more information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - RV Storage for $2.50 per day or $75 per month. Call the Preserve Office

BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA CULTUS LAKE | 604-858-3932

Annual/Extended Stay - We offer Annual Sites but are current sold out and we have started a waiting list in the Ranger Station. If you are interested, sign up and we will call you when a site becomes available. From October 1-March 31, each winter season, we offer month to month stays (not to exceed three (3) months at a time). Talk to Norm or Lisa about this program.

On-Site/Dry Storage - We offer storage in our storage area at a daily, weekly, monthly or six-month rate. Check at the Preserve Office or Ranger Station if you’re interested.

SOUTHWEST ARIZONA

VERDE VALLEY | 928-634-8158

Annual/Extended Stay - Extend your stay with us for $99 a week plus tax.

Extend by the month on a 30-amp for $350 or 50-amp for $425, plus electric.

Annual sites start at $2,500 per year. Pick a lease package where you can stay 365 nights-Best Deal. For more information regarding our Extended Stay and Annual Lease programs, contact Scott Woolley at the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - 29-foot trailers for $595 per month (includes electric).

Cabins $1,000-1,250 per month (includes electric). Weekly housekeeping and linens, TV/VCR, satellite. Pet and non-pet units available. Call the preserve to reserve your unit.

Special Events - SuperHost groups welcome. Nice RV sites, catering, rentals and friendly staff. Contact Angela at the preserve.

Dry Storage - Dry Storage available w/o electric for $50 per month or $425 per year, with electric for $90 per month or $775 per year. Call the preserve for details.

CALIFORNIA IDYLLWILD 54

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951-659-4097 (Preserve Office) 951-659-4137 (Ranger Station) 951-659-0698 (Recreation Office)

AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Special Events - To book your next SuperHost outing at Idyllwild, please contact SuperHost Coordinator at (951) 659-4137 for further details. For the resort’s list of activities, please contact the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available for as little as $75 per month or $650 per year. Please contact the Preserve Office for more information on terms and conditions.

LAKE MINDEN 530-656-2701 (Preserve Office) 530-656-2702 (Special Events) 530-656-2700 (Storage)

Annual/Extended Stay - Variety of sites available – 1-3 year leases, sewered and non-sewered sites; utilities not included. Snowbird Program: $425 per month, plus electric, includes one honeywagon dump per week.

Call the preserve for more information.

Special Events - Family reunions, church outings, company picnics, wedding receptions. Call Sonia at Special Events.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage: Quarterly for $120. Call the preserve for information.

LAKE OF THE SPRINGS | 530-692-1852

Annual/Extended Stay - Enjoy having your rig waiting for you on-site. Call us for more information on our Annual and/or Monthly Programs.

Special Events - Group outings are available. Sites and/or Rental units available. Overnight or Day Use. Call Tina at the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Call the preserve for information.

MORGAN HILL 408-779-6396 (Preserve Office) 408-779-4932 (SuperHost)

Annual/Extended Stay - Call the preserve to get the details on the best prices in the area for full hook-up and partial hook-up sites for stays up to 210 days in a year.

Special Events - Let us help plan that special family event or company gettogether. Call SuperHost.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage: $85 per month and $792 per year. Call the preserve for more details.

OAKZANITA 619-445-2835 (Preserve Office) 619-445-2515 (Ranger Station)

Annual/Extended Stay - Gas prices got you down? Hate the hassle of setting

Short-Term Rental - We offer rental cabins you can stay for the night or by the week. Call the preserve for prices. We also have a limited number of horse corrals available by the day or week. Call the preserve.

Special Events - If you are looking for that special place to have your family reunion, office get-together, church picnic or whatever the occasion, we do SuperHost groups. We have RV sites, tent sites, picnic areas, summertime activities and a few cabins to rent. Please call the preserve and ask Cheryl or Sheila.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage for only $450 per year, $65 per month or $40 per week. Call the Ranger Station for more information.

PALM SPRINGS | 760-345-1682

Annual/Extended Stay - Nestled In the Coachella Valley, surrounded by the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains, you will find our preserve. It Is the perfect place to spend your winter, with average temperatures In the 70s and beautiful blue skies. Centrally located so you can be at the beach in a few hours, or visit Joshua Tree National Park in the high desert. Stay with us for a month or the season. Call the preserve for details.

Special Events - Rally groups welcome September through November and April through May. The preserve offers many activities, such as water aerobics, water volleyball, horseshoe pits, pickleball courts and a billiards room. Call the preserve for information.

PIO PICO 619-421-0104

Annual/Extended Stay - Are you tired of moving from park to park every 2-3 weeks? Or moving your RV in and out of storage? Get our own personal site and leave your RV there all year long. Contact Dave D. at Preserve Office.

Short-Term Rental - Are you going on vacation? We have Vacation Rental Trailers and cabins available for short-term stays. Call our Preserve Office for details.

Special Events - Do you have a group event or family gathering? Let Pio Pico host your event. Call Shauna, our Events SuperHost, at the Preserve Office for more information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Call Frank or Faris at the Preserve Office for more information about our Summer Storage Special.

PONDEROSA | 530-642-5830

Annual/Extended Stay - Sign up for our new Annual Site program. Make a site yours for an entire year or up to 3 years! Eliminate storage costs and the hassle of moving your rig. Call Dominic at the preserve.

Special Events - Plan your next special event with us along the beautiful American River. We can help you host up to 150 guests for your wedding, family reunion, rally, or other special event function. Make your event one to remember – host it at Ponderosa Resort! Call the preserve for more information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Call Kathy at the preserve for information.

RANCHO OSO | 805-683-5686

Annual/Extended Stay - Short-term monthly FHU campsites at $650 per month, plus electric. Annual sites also available at special rates. Call the preserve or send email to romgr@equitylifestyle.com.

PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY - SOUTHWEST

up and taking down your RV? If you like to escape the hustle and bustle of your life then we have the program for you. You can have your own personal site and you can leave your rig 365 days a year, you can occupy your rig for up to 210 days a year.

We offer a limited number of annual sites and due to gas prices they fill up fast. Call Sheila or Cheryl at the preserve for more information.

Short-Term Rental - Check out our new reduced rates for our 29 and 30foot trailers.

Special Events - Reunions, youth groups, picnics, retreats, meetings. Private Chapel/Pavilion and courtyard available for events. Stay in cozy cabins, covered wagons or our full amenity kitchenette campers. Call the preserve for details.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage: $75 per month or $750 per year and save $150. Call the preserve for information.

RUSSIAN RIVER 707-894-5321 (Preserve Office) 707-894-5355 (Special Events)

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites are still available - only a couple left. Extended Stay $400 per month, plus electric; includes one honeywagon dump per week. For more information call the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - Over 200 wineries, close to shopping, casinos, cultural events and world-class dining. 1.5 hours to the Mendocino coast. All TT cabins include one set of linens.

Special Events - Family gatherings and SuperHost events in Sonoma wine country. Call the Special Events number for more information.

SAN BENITO 831-389-4477 (Ranger Station) 831-389-4478 (Special Events)

Annual/Extended Stay - Both our Annual Site and Extended Stay Programs are available. We also have Getaway cabins and other cabins and vacation trailers for the asking. Give us a call and see when we can fit you in. We also have space available for the public and we have tent sites. For any of your questions or concerns, contact the Ranger Station.

Special Events - If you’re looking for that great place for family gatherings, youth groups, reunions, meetings, retreats, church gatherings or just your very own special event, such as birthdays or anniversaries, contact one of our Host Coordinators at the Special Events office and they can get you on your way. We have whatever you need here at San Benito.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage is available. Call the Ranger Station for details.

SNOWFLOWER | 530-389-8241

Annual/Extended Stay - Have a favorite camping area or site you prefer?

Reserve a personal seasonal site anywhere in the preserve for only $450 per month. Call the Ranger Station to arrange your monthly leased site.

Short-Term Rental - Try something new and stay in one of our cabins or yurts! Cabins sleep four and start at $81 per night mid-week, plus tax; yurts sleep 4-5 and start at $40 per night mid-week, plus tax. Cabins and Yurts are only a short drive to exploring California’s historic Gold Country or gaming and nightlife In Reno, NV. The yurts have heaters and new mini-fridges for your convenience. Call preserve for information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Storage sites available starting at $5 per day to $75 per month. Call the Ranger Station to check availability.

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PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY - NORTHEAST

SOLEDAD CANYON 661-269-1740 (Preserve Office) 661-269-7038 (Special Events)

Special Events - Have your rally, wedding, picnic, retreat or reunion at our beautiful preserve. Catering for up to 3,000 available. Call the preserve for information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - On-site storage no longer available. Dry Storage $75 per month or $750 annual. Call the preserve for information.

TURTLE BEACH | 209-239-0991

Annual/Extended Stay - Limited number of sites available for both annual lease and monthly rental. Extended stay available. Contact Preserve Manager for pricing.

Special Events - Contact Preserve Manager for information on accommodations for SuperHost groups and family gatherings.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available for $20 per week or $60 per month.

WILDERNESS LAKES 951-672-4831 (Preserve Office) 951-672-7804 (Special Events/SuperHost)

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available. Fish from the back of your site! No reservations required. You can leave your RV on-site 365 days per year. You may occupy the site 210 days per year. Call Brandie or Dave at the preserve for more information.

Short-Term Rental - Discounted rates Sunday-Thursday, excluding threeday holidays. Call for prices or check reservation’s web page.

Special Events - Call or send email to wlsh@equitylifestyle.com for your next reunion, retreat, party, seminar, and group rally. Catering available.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Call the preserve for information.

NEVADA

LAS VEGAS 702-451-2719 (Preserve Office) 800-288-7245 (Rentals) 702-451-4647 (Storage)

Annual/Extended Stay - Come HOME to your own private site in FUN City.

Year-round sites available in four price ranges. Extended Stay monthly sites available from $475 per month. Call preserve for details.

Short-Term Rental - Make your cabin and trailer reservations early; high demand in fall, winter and spring. Call the Rental Office for information.

Special Events - Let us make your special event memorable. Have your family reunion, company picnic or wedding in Las Vegas, the entertainment capital of the world. Call the preserve for more information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Call the preserve for information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Yearly storage rates $350.

INDIANA

INDIAN LAKES 812-934-5496 (Preserve & Marketing Office)

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites starting at just $1,200. Please call Charlene.

Short-Term Rental - Monthly cabin and site rentals available. Please call Charlene.

Special Events - Church event, picnic, weekend retreat, youth group gatherings, meeting, reunion, birthday party, anniversary party, or wedding ~ no matter what your event, we have the facility you need. Please call Jody at the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - RV storage available starting at $35 per month.

Quarterly, semi-annual, and annual rates available. Call Charlene at the preserve.

HORSESHOE LAKES | 765-832-2487

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Lease Sites are $1,500 for lakefront and $1,075 for non-lakefront.

Short-Term Rental - We have 126 sites available (122 full hook-up, and 25 50amp sites - 50-amp sites are $3 per night).

Special Events - RV sites, meeting/banquet room, kitchen available for reunions, parties, church groups, weddings, etc.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available starting at $10 per week up to $300 annually.

MAINE

MOODY BEACH | 207-646-4586

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites Available: Premium $2882, plus electric fee; Elite $3542, plus electric fee; membership required. Great sites still available. Close to sandy beaches, attractive, Portland ME and Portsmouth NH. Annual Cottages Available: 28’x12’ park models, sleeps 4 adults and 2 children, complete kitchen and bath, supplies. Own your own cottage to come to all season! Annual site fee required. Prices vary - contact manager for more information. Extended Stay Available: $535 per month April, May, June - September, October. Extended Stay available for 1000 per month - July and August. Call Country Store for more information.

MIDWEST/NORTHEAST PINE COUNTRY 815-547-5517 (Preserve & Marketing Office)

Special Events - Moody Beach Is a great getaway for your group. Rallies and Reunions. Safari Field available. Contact us to book your group or party.

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available - rates $2,044. Monthly site rental (RV) - $425 per month. We offer weekly and mid-week special rates also. Call preserve for details.

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Special Events - Large and small pavilion available for rental - must reserve.

Clubhouse space available for rental - must reserve.

Short-Term Rental - April 15-June 10 and September 5 to closing (Oct. 20).

Spring or Fall - Shoulder Seasons, get away for a weekend or a week at Moody Beach.

Call Country Store for special or look us up on line at www.1000trails.com.

ILLINOIS

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Short-Term Rental - Public W/E/S - nightly rate - $43. Tent sites - nightly $28.

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On-Site/Dry Storage - $4 per day, $25 per week, $45 per month or $375 per year. Valid insurance and agreement required.

MASSACHUSETTS

GATEWAY TO CAPE COD | 508-763-5911

Short-Term Rental - Park Model rentals available starting at $60 per night (some pet units available). Call the preserve for more information and reservations.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available $46 per month or $360 per year. Call the preserve or inquire at the Trading Post.

STURBRIDGE | 508-347-7156

NEW YORK

RONDOUT VALLEY | 845-626-5521

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites are available. Call preserve for details.

On-Site/Dry Storage - We offer year-round, secure storage for just $440 per year.

Our guests can pay in full for a 10% discount or be billed monthly.

OHIO

KENISEE LAKE | 440-576-9030

Annual/Extended Stay - Lakefront for $1,545 and non-lakefront for $1,030. Call the preserve for details.

Annual/Extended Stay - Annuals from $1740 to $2666 for lakeside and, new this year, seasonal sites for spring and fall for $500.

Short-Term Rental - Elite site is $475 for a month-to-month and $425 per month for a standard site.

Short-Term Rental - Nightly and weekly rates, 10 people per site. All you bring Is linen and food. Amenities are free.

Special Events - Rustic Barn, Pool Pavilion available for Family Reunions, Superhosts, and Get-togethers. If interested, please contact Linda Roberts or Connie Higgs for more information.

Special Events - We have a beautiful conference center for all occasions nestled in beautiful Sturbridge.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Off-site Storage: $20 per week; $45 per month; or $350 per year.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage ONLY. Fees: $35 per month; $65 per quarter (yearly) $125 per 6 months; and $235 for one year.

WILMINGTON | 937-382-5883

MICHIGAN

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites now available: $1,250-$1,750. Call Amy for more information.

Annual/Extended Stay - Limited annual sites still available. Call for rates.

Just 90 minutes from Chicago and only 20 minutes to Michigan’s finest beaches. Reserve now and enjoy one of the most stunningly beautiful waterfront camp reserve sites available. Located on the St. Joseph River with boat launch and docks.

Special Events - SuperHost Facility Rental: Family Lodge $400; Pavilion $100. Call preserve for more information.

Short-Term Rental - 1 and 2 bedroom park model rentals for $59 and $69 per night; 2-night minimum stay on weekends and 3-night minimum stay on holiday weekends. Linen rental for additional fee. 2-4 person, fully-equipped tent rentals available. Call for details.

PENNSYLVANIA

BEAR CAVE | 269-695-3050

ST. CLAIR | 810-329-7129

Annual/Extended Stay - Beautiful sites, concrete pad and patio, paved road, metered 50-amp electric, water and sewer. Stay up to 180 nights and store your rig the rest of the year. $2,000 per year. Similar new sites with gravel pads and roads are only $1,500 per year. Contact Preserve Manager for details.

Special Events - Enjoy family reunions, rallies, company picnics or special events through our SuperHost Program. Call preserve for more information.

NEW JERSEY

CHESTNUT LAKE | 609-652-1005

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites starting at $1,599; Monthly Sites from $500.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Storage for $25 per week; $50 per month or $400 per year.

LAKE & SHORE | 609-624-1494

Annual/Extended Stay - Limited Cottages available so make the call today.

SEA PINES

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites available, starting at $2895.

PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY - NORTHEAST

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available for $2300. Vacation cottages for sale starting at $2500, plus site fee of $2400. Please call preserve for details.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available for $50 per month or $400 per year.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage: $15 per week, $35 per month or $150 for six (6) months. Call the Ranger Station.

CIRCLE M | 717-872-4651

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites Available! Starting at $2,350, 210 days of occupancy; space is limited.

Special Events - Looking for a great place for your next family outing? Look no further than Outdoor World Circle M in Lancaster. Contact Judy at to make your plans.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Outdoor World Circle M is not accepting any new dry storage agreements.

GETTYSBURG FARM | 717-292-7191

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites available. Call Jeff at the preserve office for information.

Special Events - Two pavilions are available for your reunion, company picnic, wedding or party. These creekside pavilions are a popular gathering spot for your special functions. Call Jeff or Mary at the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage Rates: $20 weekly, $50 monthly and $300 yearly. Call the preserve or stop by the Trading Post.

HERSHEY 717-867-1891 (Preserve Office) 717-867-3967 (Storage)

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites available at beautiful Hershey AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

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Preserve starting at $2,600. Call Kim at the preserve.

PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY - SOUTHEAST

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage Rates: $20 weekly, $50 monthly, $200 for six months or $375 per year. Call or stop by the Country Store during regular hours.

PA DUTCH COUNTRY | 717-665-2500

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites available – Standard sites $1,800, plus metered electricty; Premium sites $2,175, plus metered electricity.

Vacation Cottage site fee $2,100 per year. For more information, please call Joanne or Joan at the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - 16 cabins available for rent. Call the preserve for details.

Special Events - Don’t worry about the weather – our large building is available for rent. Building will accommodate square dance groups inside; also available for weddings and other events. For more information, please call Joanne or Joan at the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Off-site Storage is available for $3 per day, $60 per month, and $375 per year. For more information, please call Joanne or Joan at the preserve.

SCOTRUN | 570-629-0620

Annual/Extended Stay - Scotrun, in the beautiful Pocono Mountains, has annual sites available starting at $1295. Scotrun is central to everything in the Poconos and easy access right off Route 80.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage Only - $400 per year or $50 per month.

Contact preserve for details.

TIMOTHY LAKE NORTH & SOUTH | 570-588-6631

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available and vacation cottages for sale in the beautiful, scenic Pocono Mountains! Call the preserve and ask for Cathy or Nicole for pricing information.

SOUTHEAST ALABAMA

HIDDEN COVE | 205-221-7042

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available - $2,150. For information please call the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - Park Model Rentals $60 and $70 per night. For information, call the preserve.

Special Events - Our lakefront Clubhouse and Pavilion are the perfect venues for family reunions, receptions, birthday parties, company events, church picnics, etc. We also have RV sites, tent sites and cabins. For details please call the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available for $3 per day or $200 for 6 months. Call preserve for information.

FLORIDA

ORLANDO 352-394-5531 (Preserve Office) 352-394-7300 (Special Events)

Annual/Extended Stay - Sites still available for extended stay and lease options. Leave your rig and not have to move every few weeks. Please call Beth-Ann McCourt for more details or ask for when you arrive at the preserve.

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Special Events - Function hall, catering, activities and amenities are all yours with our SuperHost Program. For details, contact Beth-Ann McCourt.

PEACE RIVER | 863-735-8888

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available for $2,280 per year, plus tax and electric. Extended seasonal sites available as well. Weekender program-$179 per month-limited availablility, limited time offer. Call Lee at the preserve for details.

Short-Term Rental - We have nine rental log cabins available, for nightly or monthly rental.

Special Events - We are the perfect location for your group events. Reunions, birthday parties and other special events are fun and carefree when using our facilities.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage $45 per month. Call the preserve for information.

KENTUCKY

DIAMOND CAVERNS | 270-749-2891

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual lease sites available as well as Extended Stay. Call the preserve for more information.

Short-Term Rental - Call the preserve for details on short-term rentals.

Special Events - Special rates available for rallies, reunions and special functions. Please call the preserve for details.

On-Site/Dry Storage - On-site and dry storage available. Please call the preserve for rates.

NORTH CAROLINA

FOREST LAKE | 336-988-4135

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites are available! Don’t delay in securing yours now and start enjoying the convenience of annual site rental. Contact Preserve Office for current rate.

Short-Term Rental - Cabins, cottages and short-term rentals are available.

The longer you stay, the better the price! For rates and availability contact Barb Stanze at the Preserve Office.

Special Events - Ask about our special group rates for family reunions, rallies and camping adventures for that special occasion or birthday party! To learn more about these customized camping experiences please contact Barb Stanze at the Preserve Office.

GREEN MOUNTAIN PARK | 828-757-4088

Annual/Extended Stay - Rates are $1,400 to $2,855. Call preserve for details.

Short-Term Rental - Vacation cottages for sale at $4,495.

Special Events - Call preserve for details.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Storage available - $2 per day or $365 per year

LAKE GASTON | 252-586-4121

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available. Rates from $1,950. Call the preserve for details.

SOUTH CAROLINA

CAROLINA LANDING | 864-972-9892

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available starting at $1,300 for current members.

THE OAKS AT POINT SOUTH | 843-726-5728

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual site leases available for part-time or fulltime occupancy. Suitable for RV or park models. Also offering Summer Texan extended stays for members and the public for up to 5 months at market rate, plus metered electricity. For pricing and details about Annual sites or 55+ programs, call Marty or send email at crmgr@equitylifestyle.com.

Special Events - Make your family reunion or church picnic interesting and fun for all ages. All family oriented groups welcome. Contact Marty or send email to crmgr@equitylifestyle.com.

Annual/Extended Stay - Come spend the summer where it’s sunny at our beautiful spot close to Savannah, Charleston, and right next door to the historic Beaufort by the sea. Our summer price is very reasonable - $350 per month plus tax and electric. Call the preserve and book now for a great summer. Easy access to/from I-95.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available year-round; fenced secure area. Call the preserve or send email crmgr@equitylifestyle.com.

On-Site/Dry Storage - We offer on-site storage at $150 per month, plus electric and taxes.

Annual/Extended Stay - Come stay for a maximum of five months at a time on our Texan Program. The cost is $375 per month, plus electricity. We also have medical stays available. For details contact the Ranger. Our annual program allows you to stay up to 210 days and leave your rig onsite for the entire year. Hidden Cove annual programs are available for 300 days. Contact the Preserve Office for details.

TENNESSEE

CHEROKEE LANDING | 731-376-0935

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available from $1,099 to $1,300 for the season for current members. Extended Stay sites are $300 for current members. Call the preserve to make your reservations.

Short-Term Rental - We have campsites and rental cabins available. Call the preserve to make your reservations.

Special Events - We are the place for your SuperHost needs. Rallies, family reunions, weddings, church groups, Boy Scouts, Girls Scouts, birthday parties and more. Call the preserve to make your reservation.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage only.

NATCHEZ TRACE | 931-796-3212

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites still available - $1,020 to $1,380.

Short-Term Rental - Mid-week cabin stay special - $99 Monday through Thursday. Limited Availability. Standard Cabins only.

Special Events - Rallies Welcome! Large rental hall facilities available.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry: $5 per day/$25 per month.

TEXAS

BAY LANDING | 940-683-3016

Annual/Extended Stay - Bay Landing is now your personal site for 12 months. *Annual Stay – stay up to 210 days a year with no time out. Limited spaces available. Honey Runs every Monday, Wednesday and Friday for $10, plus tax. No need to move your rig, we come to you! Contact the Ranger Station before 2 p.m. to put your name on the list. Don’t cut your weekend short with towing and setup. Save on Gas. No pulling! Please call Lynn.

Special Events - We have excellent amenities for any of your SuperHost needs, such as family reunions, weddings, church groups, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, etc. Beautiful pavilions on Lake Bridgeport! Please call Nena.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage Only - $45, plus tax ($48.04).

COLORADO RIVER | 979-732-8229

PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY - SOUTHEAST

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available: $20 per week, $45 per month or $325 per year. Storage available for boats and RVs. For information, please call the preserve.

LAKE CONROE 936-856-7888 (Preserve Office) 936-856-3751 (Rental Office)

Short-Term Rental - We have four cabins for rent nightly for two weeks at a time, for $80 for members, plus $10 extra for guests, plus tax, per night. We have nine Getaways for our Getaway members. We also have a Hidden Cove rental, which are owned by members and rented by the week or the month.

Check with our Preserve Office for details. All rentals are fully furnished. You just need to bring clothes and food!

Special Events - SuperHost/pavilion/family center/lake area rental available most weekends for parties and special events. Contact the Ranger Station at the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage is $35 per month, plus tax. Contact the Ranger Station. We also have short-term storage at $40 per week, plus tax, where you may store your RV and leave electric plugged in while you are out of the preserve.

LAKE TAWAKONI | 903-598-2800

Annual/Extended Stay - Standard and Premium sites are available. There are electric charges on both. These sites are for 210 days of usage. Marina and dry storage are available for boats.

Short-Term Rental - Two rental cabins available.

Special Events - SuperHost facilities are available for family reunions and business use for a fee. Contact the BA for assistance.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Monthly Dry Storage cost is $42.70.

LAKE TEXOMA 903-523-5835 (Preserve Office) 903-523-4206 (Special Events/Storage)

Annual/Extended Stay - Personal Sites available. A year with no time out. *Limited spaces available.* Save on gas, setup, pulling/towing. Please call Nic at the preserve office for information. Don’t delay - sites are rapidly filling up!

Short-Term Rental - New rates - call the preserve manager or ask at the office.

Special Events - We offer SuperHost programs church groups, family reunions, scout groups, etc. Contact Brynda.

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On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available for $40 per month. Please call Brynda.

PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY - SOUTHEAST

LAKE WHITNEY | 254-694-4269

Annual/Extended Stay - Our annual/personal site program allows you to camp up to 210 days a year. There are 4 different price ranges depending on the site type chosen. Call us to find out how to get your personal site at Lake Whitney.

Short-Term Rental - Book your stay in our Rental Unit; sleeps 6 with a full kitchen and bath. Pets allowed. Call for rates and details.

Special Events - Plan your group event at Harbor View. Air-conditioned Recreational Hall and covered Pavilion available for reservation.

MEDINA LAKE 830-751-2444 (Preserve Office) 830-751-2406 (Special Events/Storage)

Annual/Extended Stay - Plan to spend the season with us and enjoy all the beauty, festivals and fun that Central Virginia has to offer. Annuals sites are available for $1,200; premium sites are $1,875. Call the preserve for more details.

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Site program available. Guarantee your personal site for an entire year with sites starting at $1,733. Call preserve for details.

Special Events - Family reunions, company picnics, rallies – we do them all!

We have two large outdoor areas available for day use. Campsite and limited cabin rentals are also available. Call Cindy at Special Events.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage $60 per month or $540 per year, plus tax.

Call Preserve Office or Storage.

VIRGINIA

Annual/Extended Stay - 2012 annual sites are going fast! With any luck, there may be a few left. Call Lisa at the Resort Office to find out! The 2012 season starts April 15.

Short-Term Rental - We have 20 fully-furnished rental cabins that sleep 4-6. (18 are lakefront locations). Pet units also available.

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Annual/Extended Stay - Seasonal sites: $1,075, plus tax and electric, for the season or $350, plus tax and electric, per month. ALL SITES ARE FULL HOOK-UP.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available for $55 per month or $605, plus tax, for the entire year (if paid in full at start of storage). You receive the 13th month free. Don’t wait - limited space.

CHESAPEAKE BAY 804-693-6951 (Resort Office) 804-693-9645 (Special Events)

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HARBOR VIEW | 804-224-8164

LYNCHBURG | 434-332-6672

Short-Term Rental - Spend a month or two and enjoy all the wonderful activities and attractions of the area. Our monthly rate is $300, plus electric.

Call the preserve for more information and start making your plans today.

Special Events - We offer the perfect place for family reunions, church or company picnics, camping rallies, weddings and receptions, and other special functions. Contact the preserve at or send email to lymgr@equitylifestyle.com and let us help you plan your special gathering today.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage: $40 per month; $200 for six months $200, $400 for the year.

VIRGINIA LANDING | 757-442-4853

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available. Call the preserve for more information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available year-round.

WILLIAMSBURG | 757-566-3021

Special Events - On a tidal river of the Chesapeake Bay, we have 20 rental cabins, tent sites and 30- and 50-amp full hook-up sites. Perfect for group events, rallies and reunions. Indoor and outdoor facilities for meetings and gatherings. Call Special Events.

Annual/Extended Stay - Your best year of camping begins at Williamsburg.

Annual on-site program at our beautiful tree-sheltered campground: full hook-up, metered sites begin at $1,750. Vacation Cottage Program offers 28 to 38-foot park models, vinyl or log-sided from $1,499 to $4,999, with a 3-year annual on-site lease. Satellite reception sites still available. Call Gary at the preserve to find out about this month’s TrailBlazer Reader’s Special.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Field storage available year-round. On-site storage available Nov. 15-May 15. Call Storage for details.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Secure and easy access storage for $395 annually with park membership. Call the preserve for more information.

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Tech Topics continued from page 11

Camper’s Kitchen continued from page 9

in winter and cooler in the summertime by using something called a vent cushion. More or less a “pillow” for your RV roof vent, these are usually a piece of foam encased in a removable cover, cut to fit the interior cavity of your RV roof vent. Enthusiasts say they not only help keep the RV cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, but they have the added advantage of blocking early morning light (or nighttime streetlamp light) from entering the RV, making for a deeper night’s sleep.

Another popular accessory is a roof vent cover. These protective “hoods” are permanently installed on the outside roof of the RV, over the existing roof vent. These allow you to use your RV roof vent fan during rainy weather and also help protect the roof vent cover from potential hail damage. They keep your roof vent sheltered from tree limbs, too, while parking in tree-shaded spots.

Happy travels, happy campers!

Place chicken or the thighs breast-side and skin side up in a single layer in the Dutch oven. Put onto the coals and replace the lid.

Place the remaining charcoal briquettes on the lid in a ring and a few up around the handle. This will make a 425 degree oven.

Bake in oven until thoroughly cooked, approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. Remove the oven from the bottom heat and let rest 15 minutes before carving. Serve garnished with cilantro leaves.

While the chicken is resting, cook some Basmati rice in chicken stock for a wonderful side.

Paul and Kerri Elders are freelance writers; visit their website at RVLinker.com.

Kenisee Lake Kenisee Lake has new roofs on both bathhouses.

Lake Conroe Lake Conroe has done some repair work on the park roads. The horseshoe pits have had a facelift and the Activity Center is getting spruced up. The City of Willis has resurfaced some of Old Montgomery and Thousand Trails Road.

Lake Texoma The heater in the family hot tub at Lake Texoma has been replaced, the men’s and women’s bathrooms at the Family Center have been remodeled, sewer and water upgrades are ongoing, while cabin appliance upgrades continue. New TVs have been installed in the Adult Lodge and Family Center.

Lake Whitney Refurbishment of the Family and Adult Pool at Lake Whitney is complete and new furniture is here too!

Mount Vernon Mount Vernon continues with paint jobs at the Cabana and Ranger Station which now match the Lodge. The roads have been graded and there is a new look at the Bulletin Boards.

News & Notes continued on page 64

Terms and Conditions for 2012 Referral Promotion Terms and Conditions: For each Eligible Referral (as defined), you will receive a $25 American Express gift card. In addition, for each Eligible Referral, you will receive one entry in a drawing for the following prizes: (i) Grand Prize is either a trip to Hawaii or a 7 night Caribbean Cruise, valued at $4,000, includes roundtrip coach airfare for two adults from the continental United States to either Hawaii or Florida, and hotel/cruise accommodations for 7 nights; (ii) Second Prize is a trip to either Las Vegas, San Francisco or Orlando, valued at $2,000, that includes roundtrip coach airfare for two adults from the continental United States to either Las Vegas, San Francisco or Orlando and hotel accommodations for 4 nights and (iii) ten (10) Third Prizes waiving payment of the winners’ annual dues for 2013, not to exceed $499 each. The trips do not include taxes, meals, beverages, transfers, gratuities, activities and other personal expenses. The drawing will be held at our corporate offices on January 7, 2013. The winners will be notified by telephone. The odds of winning the drawing depend on the number of entries and are not expected to exceed 1:10,000. For this promotion, an Eligible Referral is a person who (i) purchases a new Zone Park Pass from us between January 1, 2012 and December 14, 2012, and (ii) lists you as the referring member. This offer is only for members in good standing of Thousand Trails and its affiliates. Due to legal restrictions, residents of AZ, FL, NV, NY, PA and TN are not eligible to participate in the drawing and you will not receive an entry in the drawing for purchases made by residents of AZ, NV, PA or TN. We reserve the right to extend, modify, suspend, or terminate this promotion at any time for any reason; however, any rewards earned prior to the suspension or termination of this promotion will be honored.

Employees of Equity LifeStyle Properties, Inc. and its affiliates are not eligible to participate in this promotion. All local, state and federal income taxes are the responsibility of the recipient. Accordingly, we recommend that all participants consult a tax advisor about reporting rewards for tax purposes. We will issue the required 1099 to each participant and to the IRS when the total value of awards you are eligible to receive equal or exceed $600.00 for one year. This advertising is being used for the purpose of soliciting sales of resort campground memberships. This document has been filed with the Department of Licensing, State of Washington, as required by Washington law. Value, quality, or conditions stated and performance on promises are the responsibility of the operator, not the Department. This filing does not mean that the Department has approved the merits or qualifications of any registration, advertising, or any gift, prize, or item of value as part of any promotional plan. This promotion is sponsored by MHC Thousand Trails Limited Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606 62

AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

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Ask about special programming offers.

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Marketplace

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Mention this Ad for 10% Discount off MAP Pricing www.rvsforless.net 1-877-960-1777

Like us on Facebook

CIRCLE NO. 120 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

Share your pictures, chat about camping and get involved with other camping enthusiasts. www.facebook.com/ThousandTrails

To Advertise in Marketplace Or To Place a Classified Ad email TBads@equitylifestyle.com Deadline for October 2012 Issue is August 6, 2012 AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

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Fast Facts entries will be entered

Find The Evergreen Tree An evergreen tree is hidden somewhere in this issue. Drop us a postcard telling us where you found it, and if your card is drawn you’ll win a $25 American Express Gift Card!

in our Monthly Drawing to

win a $25 American Express Gift Card!

This month’s Fast Facts winner is

Johnetta Crane of Glen Rose, TX

Lyle & Sandy Carson

from Bothell, WA found the evergreen tree on page 47 of the June issue. Send your entry (postcards only) to TrailBlazer Evergreen Tree, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606.

Postmark deadline is August 31, and remember — the tree could be a different color and size.

Answers - Crossword puzzle can be found on page 50

Answers - Sudoku puzzle can be found on page 50

News & Notes continued from page 62

Pacific City Just a reminder to enjoy the new Welcome and Registration Ccenter at Pacific City and that the new entrance to the resort is complete. The previous entrance is now used for departures and currently checked-in folks with gate code access.

Please note that the new entrance is 500 feet east of the previous entrance.

Snowflower Snowflower just installed the new refurbished boat pier and to celebrate are offering “your first hour free” on boat rentals.

Thunderbird Thunderbird has two new gravel parking lots dedicated for tent camper use.

Yosemite Lakes Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) has started a new public transit to Yosemite Park along the Sonora Highway 120N Route, effective May 14-September 30. The bus stops at Yosemite Lakes Country Store and provides convenient connections with Yosemite Park shuttles. A round trip ticket, which includes park gate fees, costs only $7 and $5 for seniors.

One child, age 12 and under, can travel free with a paying adult. YART buses are equipped to accept wheelchairs. What a great way to visit Yosemite while staying at Yosemite Lakes.

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South Jetty South Jetty is quite proud of the beautiful new roof on their Activity Center. Storm damage to Loop A Restroom and Loop A electrical system has caused A restroom to be closed indefinitely and all A loop sites are without power indefinitely. The Adult spa remains closed, but the wading pool is now open. Our main entrance outbound lane now has a tire ripper installed to prevent unauthorized access to the preserve and Sites 101 through 135 now have new 50-amp electrical service.

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otrwjam.wordpress.com

Performing the Roman Ladders wenatcheeyouthcircus.com

B

wenatcheeyouthcircus.com

illed as the “Biggest Little Circus in the World”, the Wenatchee Youth Circus grew from its humble beginnings as an after school tumbling team in early 1952 to become one of the premier circuses of its kind. Incorporating Flying Trapeze and Highwire acts, as well as the full spectrum of professional circus fare, and utilizing local Wenatchee amateur talent in the form of junior high and high school age boys and girls, it’s a show not to be missed!

show. Over $95,000 has been presented to over 200 Youth Circus graduates since 1967, when the program was established.

Performers in the Wenatchee Youth Circus range in age from 3 to 18 years, and an average circus membership is 45-65 kids. The circus travels to more than 25 towns and cities performing about 50 shows each summer, playing to more than 10,000 people.

Upon graduation from high school, the Circus’ James A. O’Connor Memorial Scholarship awards a maximum of $500 to each eligible member of the

August 3-5: Chehalis Preserve Chehalis, Washington

Source: Wenatchee Youth Circus 66

AUGUST 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Catch the Wenatchee Youth Circus when it comes to perform at two of our Thousand Trails locations.

See schedule below and contact preserve for details. To learn more about the circus, visit www. wenatcheeyouthcircus.com.

August 31-September 2: Mount Vernon Preserve Bow, Washington

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