TrailBlazer Magazine - August 2019

AUGUST 2019 ■ $2.00

WHERE TO GO IN WISCONSIN TIPS FOR THE BEST WISCONSIN ROAD TRIP DISCOVER AMERICA’S SMALL TOWNS

AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

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R U F O RIENDS Y E T I V IN

YOU receive a $50 VisaÂŽ Virtual Reward when your friend purchases a Thousand Trails Camping Pass!

Your referral also enters YOU into our 2019 drawing for a chance to win these great prizes:

GRAND PRIZE 7-Night Cruise or Trip to Hawaii ($4,000 value)

SECOND PRIZE THIRD PRIZE 4 Nights in Las Vegas, San Francisco or Orlando ($2,000 value)

Free Dues for 2020 10 Winners Selected (Up to $585 value)

Contact Us Today!

(888) 808-8925 or visit ThousandTrails.com

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*Details and qualifications for participation in this promotion may apply and are set forth on page 61 of this magazine.

AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

AUGUST 2019 VOL. 49 ■ ISSUE 5

WHAT’S INSIDE 22

BREWING UP AN EASTERN WISCONSIN ROAD TRIP Beer, coffee, and so much more

Lighthouse overlooking the eastern Wisconsin coast

regulars lifestyle

34

Pics From The Parks 7

Member Deals 56

Crossword Puzzle 60

Sudoku Puzzle 61

Preferred RV Dealer List 62

Small Towns Big Charm

AUGUST 2019 ■ $2.00

WHERE TO GO IN WISCONSIN TIPS FOR THE BEST WISCONSIN ROAD TRIP DISCOVER AMERICA’S SMALL TOWNS

tips & topics National Aviation Day 50

Guy Fieri Camps With Us 51

Ask RV Bill 52

Tech Topics 54

4 Paws On the Road 55

5 Message from Marguerite 10 #100DaysofCamping 12 Last Call For Summer Music Festivals 14 I Knew I Was a TrailBlazer

– with John Wolf 32 Find A Great Community to

Compliment your Lifestyle 42 Let’s Make Lemonade!

44 50 Fun Quotes from ‘On the Road’ Series

calendars 16 On Site Events 18 Local Events

AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

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On the Cover

64 Club Calendar

A Wisconsin marina at sunset AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

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ENTER TO WIN at Lazydays.com/TrailFuel

LAZYDAYS RV TECH SUPPORT HOTLINE 866.317.4012

Our RV Experts are standing by to help!

GET YOUR TRADE VALUE AT Get More for Your Trade

Lazydays.com/VALUETRADE

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4 AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER VISIT LAZYDAYS.COM/TRAILBLAZER

CALL 866.531.6818

Hershey RV & Camping Resort, PA

MESSAGE FROM MARGUERITE August is officially upon us, which means it’s time to go all in on summer family fun. Did you know August is Family Fun Month? We’re lucky enough to focus on family fun every month of the year, but what a great way to round out the summer months together. Our onsite teams are focused on making sure all of our members and guests leave with lifetime memories, and so many of those include your families and close friends. I encourage you to take a look at our Theme Weekends booklet and plan a few stays in the month of August for you and your family. Plenty of memories await!

Each year, I’m always surprised by how quickly the month of August arrives. This summer has certainly been full of activities and events, and I’ve enjoyed following along on your adventures during the #100DaysofCamping. Even though I may want to hit the pause button during the summer months, it makes me realize the old adage is true – time really does fly when you’re having fun. Based off of the quickness of this summer, in particular and the great photos you’ve shared with our hashtag, I think it’s safe to say we’ve all had a lot of great times this season!

That said, summer isn’t over quite yet and there’s still plenty of time to get out and camp. This month’s issue covers upcoming music festivals that can’t be missed, along with a guide to the ultimate Wisconsin road trip. There’s plenty to eat, drink, see, and do in the great state of Wisconsin and this month’s feature focuses on the eastern portion of the state, highlighting Milwaukee, Kohler, the Twin Rivers, Door County, and more. If music is more your style, you’re sure to find a festival that’s calling your name. I’m confident you’ll find inspiration to book a trip to one of these places before we move on to the next camping season.

As you look back on the summer so far, I hope you’ve been able to take advantage of this year’s camping season and enjoy the great outdoors.

With locations all across the country, I’m hopeful you’ve found some sunshine wherever you’re located, or traveled to a more distant Thousand Trails location to chase the warm weather. Enjoy the rest of your summer, and I can’t wait to keep following along on your adventures during the #100DaysofCamping.

Marguerite Nader President & CEO AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

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www.trailblazermagazine.net CREATIVE DIRECTOR Mark Slattery GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kenzie Greene ADVERTISING SALES TBads@equitylifestyle.com MISSION STATEMENT TrailBlazer provides exclusive news and information for the members and guests of Thousand Trails Family of campgrounds and resorts.

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

TRAILBLAZER (ISSN 0747-2293) is published monthly except bimonthly Jan./Feb., Mar./Apr., May/June, Sept./Oct., and Nov./Dec. by MHCTT Memberships, LP, c/o MHC Property Management L.P., 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 tbeditor@equitylifestyle.com TrailBlazermagazine.net NEW SUBSCRIPTIONS Visit www.trailblazermagazine.net and click on the ‘Subscribe’ tab to easily subscribe online today!

Win $50

EACH Issue!

Share your adventures in 3 easy steps!

1. Capture a photo of your trip at one of our parks.

2. Share with us at TrailBlazer_photos@equitylifestyle.com.

3. Check out next month to see if you’re a winner.

Winners will receive a $50 American Express® Prepaid 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). The winning photo 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:

TrailBlazer Magazine Attn: TrailBlazer Editor Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800 Chicago, IL 60606

Emailed photos should be high resolution. Photos are not returnable and become the property of TrailBlazer Magazine 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 online at trailblazermagazine.net.

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Call: (800) 288-7245

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AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

▲ Chehalis, (WA): #100DaysofCamping at Chehalis! – Deanna Wilferd

WINN

ER!

▲ Chehalis, (WA): Jackson (3) and Eva (18 mo) enjoying a hike around Thousand Trails. – Sarah Russell

▲ Pacific City RV & Campground (OR): A walk through Pacific City – Sharon Totino

▲ Verde Valley, (AZ): The Verde River at Thousand Trails – Frank Hall

AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

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LUCKY WINNER?

WANT TO BE A

Brian and Melissa Jarrett at Yosemite Lakes

Lucky winners, Brian and Melissa Jarrett were camping at Yosemite Lakes when they were presented with a $1,000 gift card!

Thousand Trails is offering members the opportunity to win a

$1,000 American Express® Prepaid Gift Card To earn entries into our monthly drawing, simply pay your 2019 dues on time and camp at your favorite Thousand Trails Campground.

When you pay your annual dues for 2019 in full, you will be entered into our monthly drawing for a $1,000 American Express® Prepaid Gift Card. There will be one drawing/one winner each month from January through December 2019. In addition, once you pay your dues in full, each time you camp at a Thousand Trails campground in 2019, 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, phone or in person if camping at a Thousand Trails campground. 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 15, 2019. This promotion is sponsored by MHC Thousand Trails Limited Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606.

8 AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

Coming soon to Sunshine Key RV Resort & Marina in the Florida Keys!

Your summer plans may be tiny‌ but they will be mighty.

Mt. Hood Tiny House Village s Welches, OR

Tropical Palms s Kissimmee, FL

From tiny houses to cabins and yurts to covered wagons - with Petite Retreats, your summer vacation will leave a big impression.

Visit petiteretreats.com to plan your summer getaway, today!

Pacific City t Cloverdale, OR

Tiny House Village t Leavenworth, WA

AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

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AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

1 Take pictures on your 2 camping trip.

Get Out and Camp!

your photos on 3 Share Facebook, Twitter, Keep sharing your #100DaysofCamping rally towel all summer long!

JOIN IN ON THE FUN!

and Instagram using

#100DaysofCamping.

4

Repeat steps 1-3 every time you camp this summer!

AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

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t s a L

l l a C

u M

Su r fo

F c si

er m m

i t es

Don’t let summer end without partaking in one of the most fun rites of summer – an outdoor music festival. Here’s a short list of what’s coming up.

Another great place to

s l va

AUGUST 1-4 LOLLAPALOOZA, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS Enjoy Chicago’s beautiful Grant Park and the surrounding skyline when more than 180 bands gather over four days for musical fun in the sun. This year’s headliners include Ariana Grande, Childish Gambino, Gary Clark Jr. and Kasey Musgraves. There’s a variety of ways to enjoy Lolla, as it’s nicknamed, including VIP passes that include seats and shade, Platinum passes with front-row views and celebrity chef experiences, or just like the regular folk, standing, swaying and enjoying the wide variety of entertainment provided.

(Pine Country is about 70 miles from the venue)

find outdoor music events is musicfestivalwizard.com.

AUGUST 2-11 MUSIKFEST 2019, BETHLEHEM, PENNSYLVANIA The nation’s largest free music festival, MusikFest features musical performances as well as comedy shows, dance performances and a variety of interactive displays from Nintendo, PlayStation, Martin Guitar, Jack Daniels and Bacardi. There’s fun for all ages with kiddie crafts, rides and games, a craft cocktail bar, and a sculpture garden. Music ranges from indie to classical and this year’s lineup includes Weezer, Brad Paisley, and Earth, Wind and Fire. For information visit musikfest.org.

(Timothy Lake North and South are less than 40 miles from the venue) 12

AUGUST 2019 2019 TRAILBLAZER TRAILBLAZER

Lollapalooza, Chicago, Illinois

AUGUST 24-25 THING, PORT TOWNSEND, WASHINGTON Billed as a multi-disciplinary music and arts fest, THING attendees do not just get to listen to music, but also podcasts, readings and other live entertainment. Held in Port Townsend, Washington’s, historic Fort Worden, this year’s lineup includes Jeff Tweedy, The Violent Femmes and Calexico as well as podcasts from Macaulay Culkin (Bunny Ears) and Stephen Tobolowsky (The Tobolowsky Files). And, if you’re wondering about the festival’s name THING - it’s actually derived from a medieval word “ting” which means “an assembly of free people to reduce feuds and avoid social disorder.” For more info visit stgpresents.org.

(La Conner is less than 50 miles from the venue)

SEPTEMBER 21-22 PILGRIMAGE MUSIC AND CULTURAL FEST, FRANKLIN, TENNESSEE

Thing, Port Townsend, Washington

Six stages of music that will feature diverse entertainers including Keith Urban, The Killers, Foo Fighters, Wynona Judd and Edie Brickell is the setup for this music festival set on the grounds of a century-old horse farm, The Park at Harlinsdale. There is also a food truck park, Farm to Turntable, featuring southern fare and Makers Village, which features artisans and craftsmen.

For information, go to pilgrimagefestival.com.

(Natchez Trace is less than 60 miles from the venue)

SEPTEMBER 27-29 MONTEREY JAZZ FESTIVAL, MONTEREY, CALIFORNIA

Pilgrimage Music Festival, Franklin Tennessee

Over 130 artists will come together at the 62nd Monterey Jazz Festival for three days of music and entertainment at the Monterey County Fair and Event Center. The 2019 event lineup includes jazz greats such as Chris Botti and Diana Krall, as well as jazz discussions and films, including Miles Davis: Birth of Cool that tells the story of this legendary jazzman. For ticket info and schedule, visit montereyjazzfestival.org.

(Morgan Hill is less then 50 miles away from the venue) AUGUST AUGUST 2019 2019 TRAILBLAZER TRAILBLAZER

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I KNEW I WAS A

TRAILBLAZER JOHN WOLF This month, TrailBlazer Magazine would like to reintroduce you to John Wolf, an outdoor enthusiast who has been a member of Thousand Trails virtually since it began. Member number 334, John was introduced to camping as a child by his parents. He has since instilled a love for the outdoors in his children and grandchildren, and continues to visit Thousand Trails preserves with them today. We Hope you enjoy this story as a celebration of the 50th anniversary of Thousand Trails.

TB: How long have you been camping and RVing? Who introduced you to it? Tell us how it all began.

JW: I am from Virginia, was born in May, 1945, and have been camping since I was a child back in the late 1940s. Every summer my Mom and Dad would take my brother, my sister and me fishing and camping - either to a place on the beach or somewhere in the forest. We had also had a 20foot boat and on occasion would travel 50 miles up the James River from our home in Newport News (usually a four hour trip) to camp and fish at select spots we all enjoyed. Back then, tents were made of canvas, and had no “floor” in them like modern tents do today. So, you had to put down a “ground cloth” (a nice word for another piece of canvas) to sleep on. Later on, as my brother and

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AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

sister got older and lost interest in camping, it was just me and my Dad that went. Usually, I would invite a “best friend” along as a companion to have someone to play with on the trip. I never outgrew the camping bug, and today at, I still enjoy taking my family and friends out camping.

TB: How did you first hear about Thousand Trails?

JW: I first heard about Thousand Trails while my friend Donald Hill (Thousand Trails member #333) and I were riding our off road motorcycles at a place called “Orting Sports Park,” near Orting, Washington. There was a gentleman there, (I don’t remember if it was Thousand Trails founder, Milton Kuolt, or not), who addressed a group of us (off road) motorcycle riders and spoke of a rumor that the “public” trails that were then in use for everyone would soon be closed to off road motorcycle use, due to safety concerns for the other non-motorcycle users, like hikers and horseback riders. But, he had a plan for a “private” motorcycle park for “members only” and had already purchased 600+ acres in the Chehalis, Washington, area with plans to purchase more land in other areas in the Northwest for use by “members only” off road motorcyclists. And, with safety in mind, all trails on the properties would be “one way” travel only, with no trails crossing another

John salmon fishing in Sekiu, WA trail at any point on the property.

In other words, no intersections where two riders might collide.

He said if we were interested in joining parks like this, to sign up and a sales rep. would call to make an appointment for a meeting.

So we both signed up for one of these meetings. We met with the salesman at Don’s house. He presented the plan and cost of membership to us as well as the yearly dues that were proposed at that time. We liked what we saw and bought into Thousand Trails as “Charter Members.” Don became [member] #333 and I #334. And the rest, as they say, is history.

TB: What is one of your fondest camping memories? How about one of your fondest TT memories?

JW: As far as fondest camping memories, it would be hard to pick out any particular one as the best. They are all very dear to me. But one story I like to

John with his granddaughter at Crescent Bar

View of the Columbia River at Crescent Bar

North Cascades Hwy. WA tell around the “Hot Tub” at the parks is about my wife and me.

When we first met, one of the first camping trips I took her on was down at the ocean beaches here in Washington. One weekend, we were to meet some friends at a place here in Washington State along Hwy 101 called Kalaloch Park Campground. When we left, it was already raining a little, and we had gotten away from home late in the afternoon. As we got closer to the ocean, it was getting dark and had started raining very hard. So, I suggested that we stop along the way at a campground I knew of that was right on Hwy 101, and about 1/2 way to where we were going. When we arrived at the campground, she (being Catholic) exclaimed, ‘look at the name of this place! It’s called “The Promised Land” campground.’ (It is a small camp, owned by one of the local timber companies here in Washington.) What a night that was. It rained so hard that night I thought we would wash away.

The next morning was sunny and

we went on our way to meet our friends. Now, I never forgot what she said when she saw the name of that campground. So two years later when we got married, where did I take her for our honey moon?

Well, where else but “Paradise”?

Paradise Leisure Time Resort, that is! So I took my wife from “The Promised Land” to “Paradise” in just 2 years. That is a story I will never forget, and also one of my fondest TT memories.

TB: Any funny camping/RVing stories?

JW: Our second week on the road we forgot to put chalks down under our tires and when we unhitched the RV, it rolled back a couple feet. You should have seen us; our instinct was to grab onto the RV and hold it! I’m sure it was a sight to see two RV newbies grabbing onto their 42-foot fifth wheel as it rolls back a few feet. It was not funny at the time, but we can laugh about it now.

TB: What type of camper are you/what equipment do you use?

What do you prefer and why?

JW: Only one story that I remember. And that happened last year at the Chehalis Preserve in Washington. My family and I and a few friends were scouring the wooded areas near our camp for old tree limbs etc. to gather and burn in our campfire. All we had to cut with was a small hand saw made for “pruning” trees.

A while later, one of the rangers showed up at our camp and said someone had reported that we had been cutting down whole trees in the forest near our camp.

After seeing the wood we had been cutting and realizing that in reality, we were “cleaning” the site and surrounding area of unwanted forest debris, he let us go (jokingly) with the promise that the next time we would apply for a logging permit and file an environmental impact statement.

All photography courtesy of John Wolf AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

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Activities and Events – On Site

AUGUST

ON SITE EVENTS You Hula?

If so, come join us as we celebrate Hawaiianstyle complete with grass skirts, leis and festive luaus. Bend-Sunriver (OR) adds the fun of yummy banana splits to their Hawaiian fun on August 3. Morgan Hill (CA) will have ocean crafts for their Hawaiian Dreams Weekend August 9-11 and Gateway to Cape Cod (MA) will host Luau Weekend the same weekend. Cultus Lake (BC) will host a Roast Pig Dinner on Saturday, August 17 and La Conner (WA) will have everything Hawaiian at their Aloha Weekend August 16-17. Gettysburg Farm (PA) gets in on the fun with their Luau and Pig Roast Weekend August 23-25 and will have tie-dye and lei-making activities in addition to the Pig Roast Potluck dinner.

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Embrace your Inner Pirate

Berry Much Fun

Don an eye patch, talk like a sailor and swashbuckle your way through these piratethemed events. August 3-4 Pio Pico (CA) will have pirate movies, pirate food and a special Pirate Island Art Camp for the kids at the Youth Center. Lake Whitney (TX) wants campers to dress like pirates and find out who’ll walk the plank at the Pirates Cove Weekend August 2-4.

Lake and Shore (NJ) hosts Shipwrecks Weekend August 9-11 and the fun includes a treasure hunt and island games. St. Clair (MI) has pirate-themed fun on tap August 16-18 that includes a scavenger hunt, crafts and a pirate party. Thunderbird (WA) will also host a weekend of pirate fun August 16-18 complete with eye patch and pirate hat decorating and a treasure hunt.

August is berry harvest season throughout much of the Washington State so get ready and get pickin’ at these fun berry-themed events. Bring your best blackberry recipes to Grandy Creek (WA) the weekend of August 17-18 and enjoy a pie-eating contest, a blackberry picking contest and lots of berry fun. Mount Vernon (WA) will host their 4th Annual Blackberry Festival the same weekend with a picnic lunch and blackberry cobbler dessert on Saturday. There will also be blackberry picking contests on Friday and Saturday and a blackberry toss Saturday night. The berry patch at Chehalis (WA) is ready for harvest and they will also have a special berry dessert after a day of berry picking on Saturday, August 24.

AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

Activities and Events – On Site

One Last Hurrah You know what follows August, right?

September – which means school’s back in session so join us for one last bash before summer ends and school begins. Both Diamond Caverns (KY) and Natchez Trace (TN) will host back to school parties the weekend of August 2-4. Kids games, crafts and pool fun are all on the syllabus for fun! Lake Texoma (TX) will have root beer floats for everyone and Back to School Bingo during their Back to School Weekend August 3. Oakzanita (CA) will have a kids’ pizza party and water games August 17 and Lake Conroe (TX) will host a pizza pool party the same day so kids can say goodbye to summer. Forest Lake’s (NC) Back to School Weekend scheduled for August 23-25 will feature Back to School Bingo and a Back to School DJ Dance Party while Williamsburg’s (VA) Back to School Blues event the same weekend will have games and activities and a lesson on fire safety. Moody Beach (ME) hosts their Back to School Weekend August 23-25 as well and there will be a BOGO Ice Cream Social, a pizza party, and kids’ karaoke. Sturbridge (MA) will get kids ready for school with back to school crafts, end of summer activities and a kids pizza party August 23-25.

Time for the Time Machine Maybe you’ll reminisce or maybe you learn about an era in which you didn’t exist – any way you look at it, these throwback weekends are fun for everyone!

Russian River (CA) must have rented the time machine for the month of August as they will host throwback-themed weekends throughout the month. Plan for the 50s on August 3-4, the 60s on August 10-11, the 70s on August 17-18 and the 80s on August 24-25. Lake Gaston (NC) hosts its Oldies Weekend August 9-11 and will have all kinds of contests including bubblegum blowing and hula-hooping. There will also be a DJ dance and root beer floats! Timothy Lake North and South (PA) takes it back to the 50s August 9-11 while PA Dutch (PA) goes psychedelic the weekend of August 23-25 as they celebrate the 60s. Ponderosa (CA) is flashing us the big peace sign the weekend of August 17 as they “Remember the 60s” and Pio Pico (CA) follows suit (Nehru, perhaps?) the weekend of August 24-25 with beads, bell bottoms and Beatles movies.

Something Different?

If you aren’t into luaus or sock hops, consider some of these unique events to entertain you this August. Bay Landing (TX) hosts a Safari Weekend August 2-4 with jungle fun such as a Tarzan Yell contest and a safari wagon adventure. Lake Conroe (TX) goes crazy for games during Game Mania Weekend August 10 with board games, card games and Bingo galore.

It will be a sweet time for sure at Chestnut Lake’s (NJ) Chocolate Lover’s Weekend August 9-11 with a chocolate slip ‘n slide, a pudding eating contest and chocolate crafts. A weekend of champions is planned at Pine Country (IL) during the weekend of August 23-25 as they host the Family Pine Olympics Weekend with a mix of games including the three-legged race, a sack race, egg and spoon race and a chicken wing eating contest. Will your family be the big winners? Indian Lakes (IN) wants you to show off your talents at their Talent Show August 25 while Bear Cave (MI) wants you to figure how “who done it” at their Murder Mystery Weekend August 23-25. Lastly, Kenisee Lake (OH) is hosting a Community Sale or Swap/Vegas Night Weekend August 23-25 where you can sell your unwanted items or swap with friends. Saturday evening try your luck at Blackjack, Texas Hold ‘Em or Craps at their Vegas Night.

AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

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Activities and Events – Local

AUGUST LOCAL CALENDAR OF EVENTS RANCHO OSO (CA) July 31-August 4

PINE COUNTRY (IL) August 6-11

Celebrate Santa Barbara’s heritage with this event that features music, dancing, authentic cuisine, a parade and more.

Admission is free.

Oldspanishdays-fiesta.org

All kinds of County Fair fun will be found here including livestock shows, a parade, kids activities, a barrel race, truck and tractor pulls, a queen pageant and live entertainment.

Boonecountyfair.com

PIO PICO (CA) August 4

GATEWAY TO CAPE COD (MA) August 10

23rd Chula Vista Lemon Festival

Cape Cod Food Truck and Craft Beer Festival

Come celebrate the lovely lemon in the Lemon Capital of the World, Chula Vista, California. The event is all about the lemon with lemoninfused activities, live music, and kids activities. Contests include Lemon Pie Eating, Lemon Peeling and the Largest Lemon. There will also be a craft beer garden.

Thirdavenuevillage.com/lemonfestival

Enjoy lobster rolls, duck tacos, pizza, burgers and more at this food truck event which will also have fun lawn games and an artisans festival.

Old Spanish Days Santa Barbara – Fiesta

August 10

Blended: Wine and Music Festival Set at Waterfront Park in San Diego, this event has music, wine, craft beers and food stations and, of course, live music. eventsprout.com/event/ blended-wine-and-music-festival 18

AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

Boone County Fair

Foodtruckfestivalsofamerica.com

STURBRIDGE (MA) August 3-4

Redcoats and Rebels The largest military reenactment has Old Sturbridge Village turned into a military camp during the War of Independence with more than 1000 “soldiers” representing British, Scottish, French and Colonial troops.

Osv.org

Activities and Events – Local

BEAR CAVE (MI) August 2-4

Taste of Michigan City In addition to all the food tastings from local restaurants, there will also be kids activities, a boat parade, live music and a beer garden at this event in Uptown Arts District in Michigan City, Indiana.

Theuptownartsdistrict.com LAKE AND SHORE (NJ) August 3

Craft Beer, Music and Crab Festival Held on the grounds of the historic Emlen Physick Estate in Cape May, this event features local craft beers and plenty of seafood including crab cakes, steamed crab, and shrimp.

There will be live entertainment, including jugglers and acrobats from a Victorian circus.

Capemaymac.org Jazz on the Beach A free concert series offered Thursday evenings at the Atlantic City Boardwalk’s Kennedy Plaza. Local artists and headlining musicians will perform.

Atlanticcitynj.com AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

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Activities and Events – Local

AUGUST 2019

WILMINGTON (OH) August 3

Cincy Summer Beerfest More than 100 craft beers are on tap for tasting at this event held at Smale Riverfront Park in Cincinnati. There will also be live entertainment.

Cincybeerfest.com Throughout August: Sundays and Wednesdays Riverfront Market

Each Sunday (9 a.m. to 2 p.m.) and Wednesday (4 p.m. to 8 p.m.) a variety of food truck vendors are available for you to choose from and enjoy Cincinnati’s wonderful eats!

Located at Smale Riverfront Park.

Riverfrontwilm.com

BEND-SUNRIVER (OR) July 31- August 4

Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo Enjoy a carnival, a rodeo, talent shows, livestock shows and plenty of family fun at the Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo. The live music lineup includes Collective Soul and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. This is the fair’s 100th year so there will be a photo exhibit showing the Fair through the past 100 years.

Expo.deschutes.org August 16

Bend Brewfest Enjoy tastings of craft beers, ciders and wine at a venue along the banks of the Deschutes River. All ages are welcome (21 to taste) and there will also be food vendors at the event.

Bendbrewfest.com 20

AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

Held at Hollabaugh Bros. Fruit and Vegetable Farm in Biglerville, this event is all about the peach. The event will include plenty of samples, peach ice cream sundaes, kids fun including face painting and a Fairy Tale Trail, plus wagon rides and food.

Hollabaughbros.com August 17

7th Annual Summer Harvest Dinner Enjoy a buffet-style dinner where the menu items are all made from scratch from local, organic ingredients. There will also be live entertainment.

Oylersorganicfarm.com

PA DUTCH (PA) Through August 10

Dutch Apple Dinner Theater presents Annie The theater presents the story of Annie, the lovable orphan, and the characters in her life as she tries to settle into her new home, with billionaire Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks.

Dutchapple.com CHEROKEE LANDING (TN) July 26-28 Through September 2

Giant Lego® Brick Sculptures With admission to the Memphis Zoo, visitors can see these giant sculptures, all created from Lego® bricks, and designed to represent endangered wildlife.

These pieces took over 4,000 hours to build and were created by award-winning artist Sean Kenney.

Memphiszoo.org

Through September 15

Muhammad Ali: The Greatest of All Time Artifacts and photos tell the story of the greatest boxer of all time, Muhammad Ali. Held at the Graceland Exhibition Center, this exhibit contains more than 100 artifacts including rare photos, championship belts, boxing programs and more.

Graceland.com LEAVENWORTH (WA) Through September 1 (various dates)

The Sound of Music The story of the Von Trapp Family, performed by the Leavenworth Summer Theater in the beautiful setting of the Ski Hill Amphitheater, can’t be missed.

Leavenworthsummertheater.org

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Activities and Events – Local

GETTYSBURG FARM (PA) August 10 29th Annual Peach Festival

BREWING UP AN EASTERN

WISCONSIN ROAD TRIP Beer, Coffee, and So Much More

By Lynn & Cele Seldon

Wisconsin’s Door County

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It’s easy to look at a map of eastern Wisconsin and brew up a tasty road trip that includes beer, coffee, and so much more on the food and culture fronts. From Milwaukee, north to Kohler, the Door Peninsula, Green Bay, and Oshkosh, before heading back down to Brew City, the eastern part of Wisconsin along Lake Michigan, Green Bay, and Lake Winnebago makes for an ideal reason to hit the road.

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MILWAUKEE Also known as Cream City, thanks to its many historic cream-colored brick buildings, Brew City is all about beer (and the city’s historic and modern connections with it), coffee, Wisconsin-focused food, and lots of interesting museums. After all, a city with a baseball team called the Brewers knows how to brew up a good time for locals and visitors alike.

From spring to fall, the fun can start at beloved Miller Park, home of the equally adored Milwaukee Brewers.

With a retractable roof to keep out the cold, rain, and occasional snow, Miller Park is a baseball mecca. Of course, lots of beers from Wisconsin brewers are on tap, with bratwurst (think Wisconsin-based Johnsonville) and other sausages, plus pretzels and more local faves, on the menu for that perfect beer-food pairing.

The beer theme continues everywhere in the city, with many large, well-known breweries (like MillerCoors and Pabst Brewing Co.) and smaller craft breweries (including Lakefront Brewery, Milwaukee Brewing Co., Sprecher, Good City Brewing, and many more). Several of these beer meccas, big and small, offer varied tours – including MillerCoors (the Miller Brewery Tour), Lakefront, Best Place at the Historic Pabst Brewery, and elsewhere—as well as creative pub grub (Lakefront’s locally-focused charcuterie platter is legendary).

Chilly winds and weather off Lake Michigan have also made Milwaukee and other parts of eastern Wisconsin coffee-focused. Throughout the city, dozens of independent cafés and coffee roasters can be found. Some local favorites include Colectivo, The National Café (look for their colorful caffeine-infused mural), Stone Creek Coffee, Kickapoo Coffee, and many more.

Located out near Miller Park, the Harley-Davidson Museum draws thousands of loyal Harley owners and others interested in the history of the iconic motorcycles and Milwaukeebased company. Several excellent tour options are available, with lots of Harley history to be learned and historic motorcycles to be viewed.

There’s also a great gift shop and Motor, their restaurant.

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Milwaukee Art Museum

The area is also home to one of nine stops on southern Wisconsin’s Frank Lloyd Wright Trail. Milwaukee has six Wright-designed homes on a single block at and near 2714 West Burnham, with other stops in Racine, Madison, Wind Point, Spring Green, and beyond. Wright was born in Richland Center, Wisconsin, and the state was always near and dear to his heart (and drawing board).

Situated in downtown proper, near the lake, the Historic Third Ward features a concentrated array of beer and coffee tasting options (of course), restaurants, theaters, museums, shops, and more.

Nearby, the Fiserv Forum area (known as the “Deer District”) serves as the home of the Milwaukee Bucks, Drink Wisconsibly (a great shop focused on Wisconsin beverages), Punch Bowl Social (bowling, arcade games, crafted beverages, and a scratch kitchen), aforementioned Good City Brewing, The Mecca (the one-time home of the Bucks and now a bustling sports bar and grill), and a beer garden connecting the plaza area with Old World Third Street.

Those looking for more only-inMilwaukee dining can’t go wrong with the Bartolotta Restaurant Group’s unique offerings, including Downtown Kitchen, Harbor House, Lake Park Bistro, Bacchus, and others. It’s also easy to shop for a picnic at downtown’s bustling year-round Milwaukee Public Market (including an adjacent Outdoor Urban Market from early–June to September). For dessert in the area, it’s hard to beat frozen custard at Kopp’s Custard (locations in nearby Greenfield, Brookdale, and Glendale), though visitors can also find other options closer to downtown (just ask a local).

More museums also await, including the famed Milwaukee Art Museum, Discovery World Science + Technology Center (for kids and kids at heart), and the fun National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum, which features thousands of assorted bobbleheads and is appropriately located above a Colectivo café. Many of the aforementioned stops can now be reached without a vehicle, thanks to the city’s relatively new streetcar system– which, naturally, is called The Hop MKE.

Brady Street Milwaukee

Colectivo coffee courtesy of Seldon Ink

Harley Davidson courtesy of Seldon Ink AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

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KOHLER Situated just one hour north of Milwaukee, the little town of Kohler and its myriad of interesting offerings is a world away from Milwaukee, making for a completely different eastern Wisconsin road trip stop.

There’s much to see in and near town.

Most people know the name Kohler because of the company of the same name that was founded in nearby Sheboygan back in 1873. Long-known for producing high-quality bathroom and kitchen fixtures, plus much more, the company and town offers interested visitors much to see and do throughout “Destination Kohler.”

Offering an intimate glimpse and immersion into the Kohler company and Village for which it’s named, Destination Kohler is a world-class resort situated in quaint Kohler Village and has been welcoming visitors for almost 40 years. Though there are many options, the most popular pursuit for many is the fascinating three-hour Kohler Factory Tour.

Departing from the Kohler Design Center (a destination in its own right) at 8:30 a.m., Monday through Friday (excluding a few holidays, like July 4, Thanksgiving, and the Christmas period), the tour focuses on how Kohler products are created in several historic buildings (including their famed cast iron tubs).

The tour also ends back at the Kohler Design Center, where hundreds of Kohler products are on display and Kohler associates are available to help with appropriate projects (by appointment). Destination Kohler even offers “Renovation Vacations” for home (and RV) owners, where participating resort guests can work on home projects with the pros while vacationing and enjoying many of the Kohler company’s offerings at the resort.

The rest of town is also well worth exploring. The American Club once housed Kohler employees and now

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Kohler Design Center courtesy of Seldon Ink

Kohler Waters Spa

Kohler Tower Clock

Kohler Golf Course

welcomes overnight guests, as well as hungry visitors–thanks to varied restaurants, including The Horse & Plow (great pub food and Jigger Ale, a beer brewed specifically for Kohler in St. Andrews, Scotland), The Greenhouse (casual fare in a glassenclosed structure), The Wisconsin Room (which once served as the dining room for the Kohler employees and now features Badger State fare), The Winery Bar (small plates, paired with premier wines), and The Immigrant Restaurant (the resort’s showcase restaurant). Other dining, imbibing and super shopping is available at the nearby (and lakefront) The Shops at Woodlake Kohler complex, including Brewed Awakenings (great coffee and fresh pastries), Cucina (Italian fare), Lakeside Market for tasty supplies (plus its Atrium Café), Press + Chill juicery and superfood bar, Craverie Chocolatier Café (also for great coffee, plus delectable, soups, sandwiches, and desserts), Badger State shopping at Wisconsin Trader, and lots of other specialty shops.

Situated between The American Club and Kohler Woodlake in the Carriage House, Kohler Waters Spa is one of America’s top spas and well worth making advance reservation for various treatments. Those with appointments can also enjoy the separate men’s and women’s respite rooms (featuring a steam room, sauna, whirlpool, and cool plunge pool), the 30-foot co-ed relaxation pool and waterfall, and the rooftop whirlpool, fireplace and

relaxation lounges, which is also coed. For the fitness-minded, historic Kohler Village also features several walks of varying length, including a Kohler Village Walk (including Kohler Village School, historic housing, the Arboretum, and more), the Wildflower River Walk along the Sheboygan River, and Wood Lake Walk. Guests can also enjoy the soothing Yoga on the Lake studio overlooking Wood Lake and the high-energy community-driven Bold Cycle studio.

Golfers will love learning that Destination Kohler features 72 holes of championship golf, including Blackwolf Run® (The River and The Meadow Valleys) and lakefront links-style Whispering Straits® (The Straits and The Irish), home of the 2020 Ryder Cup. Those looking to improve their game should ask about Kohler Swing Studio and Golf Shop (as well as their Kohler Golf Academy partnership), which is located in The Shops at Woodlake Kohler. Golfers will be interested to learn that Kohler also owns and operates Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa, which is situated on the 17th “Road Hole” of the Old Course in St. Andrews, Scotland.

Other attractions in the area include Kohler-Andrae State Park, The Blind Horse Winery, The Waelderhaus (a tribute to the Kohler family’s historic ancestral home in Austria), and Bulitz Pumpkin Farm. It’s then a quick halfhour drive up the coast to Manitowac and, then, Twin Rivers, just 10 miles or so further north.

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Ice Cream at Washington House

Cold Country Wines & Vines

MANITOWAC & TWIN RIVERS The coastal communities of Manitowac and Twin Rivers are known for their ties to Lake Michigan, their excellent museums, and tasty culinary offerings. Museum highlights in the towns include: the excellent Wisconsin Maritime Museum (including their World War II submarine, the USS Cobia); Hamilton Wood Type & Printing Museum; the Rahr-West Art Museum; Roger Street Fishing Village; the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Museum; and Washington House – Birthplace of the Ice Cream Sundae.

Wisconsin Maritime Museum Courtesy of Seldon Ink

The area now boasts the new Wisconsin Coastal Food Trail, including a map that’s a self-guided tour guide that can lead to a prize entry after 10 or more trail stops. Tasty trail stops include: Cold Country Wines & Vines; The Hearty Olive; Courthouse Pub (a microbrewery); Pet Skull Brewing; Sabbatical Brewing; Hennings Cheese; In the Woods Sugarbush (maple syrup); Newton Meats; Pine River Dairy; Wilbert Farms; and Susie-Q Fish Company, a 5th generation familyowned business specializing in smoked fish products.

Hamilton Wood Type & Printing Museum

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THE DOOR PENINSULA Situated between Lake Michigan and Green Bay (the body of water, versus the city), Wisconsin’s fabled Door Peninsula is next. Heading up the coast of Lake Michigan and after leaving Algoma (45 minutes from Two Rivers), road trippers enter Door County and immediately see two area favorites (Renard’s Cheese Factory and Wienke’s Market). Sturgeon Bay, another 25 minutes further north, is often used as an ideal base for exploring all that the Door Peninsula has to offer.

Sturgeon Bay has many highlights, including: Door County Maritime Museum; Door County Historical Museum; The Farm (a living museum); three lighthouses (Sherwood Point Lighthouse, North Pierhead Light, and Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Lighthouse); the crashing waves, caves, and cliffs of iconic Cave Point County Park; the picturesque sand dunes of adjacent Whitefish Dunes State Park; kayaking and other watersports; and great fishing. There’s also dining with a view, including Waterfront Mary’s, right on Sturgeon Bay. Further afield, it’s easy to pursue an easy clockwise roundtrip drive around the peninsula, stopping in quaint coastal towns and other roadside attractions throughout Door County. About four miles north of town, provisioners will want to look for Grandma Tommy’s Country Store on the right. Next, another six miles or so, Carlsville’s Door County Coffee & Tea awaits, where they roast their own robust coffees, but also serve tasty breakfasts and lunches to locals and others in the know. Just a block north and across the street, Door Peninsula Winery and Door County Distillery provide other craft beverage options.

Lots of cute towns continue to the north, including Egg Harbor (look for the basecamp of popular Door County Trolley and Wood Orchard Market, both right on State 42 on the right), Fish Creek (home to one of many famed Door Peninsula “fish boils,” at the White Gull Inn, as well as Eagle Bluff Lighthouse in pretty Peninsula State Park), Ephraim, Sister Bay (Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant is a must-stop), Ellison Bay (with its Death’s Door Maritime Museum and

Coast of Lake Michigan cute Brew Coffeehouse), Gills Rock, and Northport (where ferries depart for Washington Island, a mostly seasonal daytrip destination for road trippers).

Retracing the route south on State 42 and then cutting southeast on State 57, the towns of Baileys Harbor (home of Cana Island Lighthouse and the Range Lights lighthouse) and Jacksonport (featuring sandy beaches and the spectacular limestone outcroppings and caves at Cave Point County Park) also await further exploration before the return to Sturgeon Bay. This loop passes by several wineries on the Door County Wine Trail, with stops featuring tastings of generally sweet fruit wines (especially apple and cherry), as well as traditional grape wines from cold-hardy vineyards.

Bottles of both make for popular Door County souvenirs.

Local wines, beers, and coffee are often served at the aforementioned fish boils, which typically take place across the Door Peninsula from spring to fall (Fish Creek’s White Gull Inn features them every Friday evening year-round and more frequently inseason). The fish boils feature chunks of Lake Michigan whitefish caught by local fisherman, which are cooked over an open fire with red potatoes and salt by a “Master Boiler,” who adds a small amount of kerosene to the fire at just the right time to cause the pot to boil over, spilling the fish oils over the side in a great burst of flame. The fish and potatoes are typically served with melted butter, coleslaw, fresh breads, and Door County cherry pie.

Door County Harbor

Door County Photo Courtesy of Seldon Ink AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

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Waterfall outside Green Bay WI

GREEN BAY Just 45 minutes south of Sturgeon Bay is the well-known football city of Green Bay. Touring historic Lambeau Field and the Packers Hall of Fame are popular choices year-round for both Packers fans and sports fans from across the country.

New to the scene is Titletown (right next to Lambeau Field), a destination in its own right. Winter activities like ice skating and a three-story tubing hill, and summertime yard games, football field and giant playground keep the park action-packed.

Hinterland Brewery stands as a cornerstone to the parkway, and the five-story luxury Lodge Kohler overlooks the fun. Inside the hotel, Leaps & Bounds Café features their own nitro cold brew coffee. The fifth floor Taverne in the Sky offers fine dining and Kohler’s very own Jigger Ale. In Green Bay’s bustling downtown, visitors will find Copper State Brewing Company (try the Chocolate Peanut Butter Coffee Nitro Porter), Captain’s Walk Winery, and The Cannery Public Market. Nearby, other favorite bite and sip spots include Noble Roots Brewing, Nala’s fromagerie, and Luna Café.

Street Festival Courtesy of Green Bay

Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame Courtesy of Green Bay 30

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Lighthouse in Oshkosh

Andy & Eds Drive-through Courtesy of Seldon Ink.

OSHKOSH Downtown proper also features several Just an hour south of Green Bay and hotspots for coffee, beer, and food. ideally situated on Lake Winnebago Those in need of a caffeine jolt will want and the Fox River, which connects to head to New Moon Café (features Lake Michigan and Lake Butte des Moonbeans Roast coffee) or The Howard Morts, Oshkosh is another fun eastern Café (which also features, The Lanes, a Wisconsin destination. First and swanky 1920s-style lounge and bowling foremost, Oshkosh is most well-known alley at night). Oshkosh is also home to for aviation and the world’s most popular aviation show, EAA AirVenture. four breweries: Bare Bones Brewery; Fifth Ward; Fox River Brewing Company; EAA Aviation Museum south of and HighHolder. town features more than 200 historic planes, along with multiple galleries Waterfront dining can be found at Ground and displays. Visitors can even pursue Round (ask about their 22-ounce Old (seasonal) rides on a 1929 Travel Air E-4000 and a 1927 Swallow, two classic Fashioned), TJ’s Harbor, and back at Fox River Brewing, while a classic Wisconsin open-cockpit biplanes. The huge EAA “supper club” experience shouldn’t Venture aviation show takes place in be missed at The Roxy Supper Club, late-July and is well worth tying to an downtown. Though sometimes hard to Oshkosh visit. The Military Veterans define, Wisconsin’s supper club concept Museum & Education Center is three basically features restaurants with a cozy miles south of the EAA complex. club-like atmosphere where meals can last for hours and leftovers are the norm.

On the way downtown, nostalgia buffs At night, Old Fashioneds are the drink of will want to pull into Ardy and Ed’s choice in supper clubs (though Wisconsin Drive-in, where roller skating servers is also known for some of the nation’s serve up classic diner fare. Back in largest and most creative Bloody Marys, downtown proper, much more awaits.

Pretty Paine Art Center and Gardens is morning to nighttime). well worth a stop, while the Wiouwash From Oshkosh, by way of friendly Fond Trail is well worth a walk, in that it du Lac (also on Lake Winnebago), it’s a connects downtown’s Riverwalk along quick 90-minute drive down Interstate 41 the Fox River to Lake Butte des Morts southeast, back to Milwaukee.¾ and beyond.

Visit RVontheGo.com to plan your Wisconsin road trip

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Find a great Community

To Compliment Your Lifestyle!

RV and Manufactured Home communities have a lot in common, so it’s easier than you think to have the best of both worlds.

We know how much you love your RV and all of the adventure it brings, so why give it up? If you’re thinking about purchasing a manufactured home and leaving the RV behind, you don’t have to choose, and here’s why!

Central Park Village, (AZ)

Monte Vista, (AZ)

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Mid Florida Lakes, (FL)

Your manufactured home can serve as your home base. Many of our communities offer convenient RV storage, so you can relax, have fun, and enjoy tons of great amenities at home when you want, while still having easy access to all the road travel and exploration you crave.

The Reserve at Lake Conroe, (TX)

Date Palm Country Club, (CA)

Crystal Lake, (FL)

The Highlands at Bentwood, (AZ)

1. At many of our manufactured home communities, you’ll find RV Club members who share your interests and passion for road travel.

2. The community-rich lifestyle provided by our manufactured home communities is very similar to the sense of community you find in your favorite RV parks.

3. Most manufactured home communities are located in great retirement destinations across the country – giving you easy access to many of the same awesome entertainment and adventure opportunities you look for when you set out in your RV.

Learn more at

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small towns

M R A H C G I B

By Joan Rykal

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W

hen planning a travel adventure, some people go for the draw of the big city with its hustle and bustle and bright lights, while others seek a more serene destination, like the small towns that reside in every state and exist as a living history lesson. After all, it was these little cities that gave way to the thriving metropolises that sprang up around them. These are the towns where you won’t find big chain stores, but instead locally owned, unique shops.

Eateries with a focus on local traditions, and most likely locally sourced menu items replace corner after corner of fast food restaurants.

We went looking and found a few small towns that might be right up your cobblestone alley!

So, come take a stroll down memory lane, enjoy the charm of Main Street USA and plan to spend some time in these quaint little gems that are big on charm.

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Street view in Galena, Illinois

Galena, Illinois Tucked in the Mississippi River Valley in northwestern Illinois, the town of Galena is big on history, Historic Mansions, Galena, Illinois as well as charm. The surrounding Field in Galena, Illinois scenery is all hills and valleys, which is not typical of the Illinois From an outdoor perspective, Galena Afternoon with the General and His landscape. Because is it located in offers many great hiking trails and Wife at which “General Ulysses S. the Driftless Area, Galena, which nearby state parks, including Apple Grant and Mrs. Grant” will preside is named for the natural mineral River Canyon State Park (about over afternoon tea. This event is which was found in the region in 20 miles from downtown) and the scheduled for Saturday, August 17. the early 1800s, was not affected Mississippi Palisades State Park (about Speaking of Ulysses S. Grant, upon by the glaciers that affected his return to Galena in 1865 after his 30 miles from downtown) which offers nearby geography. Thanks to its victorious service in the Civil War, he views of the Mighty Mississippi River. rich load of galena, it became Don’t miss Horseshoe Mound for a was presented with a home by the a bustling river town during the truly scenic experience! citizens of Galena, where he made mid-18th century. Many of the his home for the years preceding his Downtown Galena has more than buildings in the downtown area presidency. In 1904, Grant’s children 125 shops and restaurants all located reside with a National Register gifted the city with the home with the along the scenic Main Street. Art Historic District. galleries, boutiques, antiques and direction that it be maintained as a One of these historic buildings memorial to Grant. Today, visitors can more can be found as well as all kinds is the DeSoto House, built in take a guided tour of this Italianate- of great dining experiences. Wet your 1855 to accommodate the many whistle at Root Beer Revelry, where style house that appears much as visitors to the thriving port town. they have several varieties of root it did when Grant lived her. Visit.

Thanks to its luxurious furnishings beer on tap. You can also imbibe granthome.com for more details. and accommodations, the hotel adult-style beverages at the Galena quickly became the gathering spot A visit to the Galena & U.S. Grant Cellars tasting room or Blaum Bros Museum will provide a history for Galena’s social and political Distilling Co., where you can also take lesson the area as well as a activities. After undergoing a a tour of the distilling area and barrel welcome from U.S. Grant himself, complete restoration almost 100 room. in the form of a hologram! One years later, the DeSoto House (Galena is approximately 95 miles exhibit in the museum explains remains one of Galena’s most from Pine Country) visited places. The Sunday Brunch the afore-mentioned Driftless Area, while others detail the town’s is a must-do and several other mining and steamboating history. special events are held here Museum specifics can be found at throughout the year including the galenahistory.org. upcoming historical event, An 36

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Fredericksburg, Texas A taste of wine country in the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is a charming German-influenced town located between San Antonio and Austin. Main Street offers a hearty “wilkommen” to visitors and is lined with shops, eateries, and art galleries. The Marktplatz, or Market Square, in the center of town, is often the site of concerts and festivals.

Food fare in the town is interesting and it pays homage to its German roots and well as the Tex-Mex influence of modern day so you can enjoy both bratwursts and schnitzel as well as tacos and enchiladas.

For the thirsty, there are several tours available that will take you around the more than 20 wineries in the area, and the Fredericksburg Brewing Company offers tours as well as a delightful Biergarten to enjoy their suds.

Texas is known for doing everything big, but Old Tunnel State Park holds the distinction of being the smallest state park in the Lone Star State. The main draw here is the three-mile historic railroad tunnel that is home to thousands, yes, thousands of bats.

The Mexican free-tailed bats emerge at sunset and are visible from a lowerviewing area. There is also a half-mile nature trail for walking and hiking.

For more information, visit texas.gov/ state-parks/old-tunnel.

History buffs may recall LBJ’s wife, Lady Bird Johnson, whose mission was to “beautify America.” Her legacy can be glimpsed at the Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park in Fredericksburg. This 150-acre park offers natural trails, tennis courts, a driving range, picnic pavilions and fishing in Live Oak Creek, which rambles through the park, and an abundance of wildflowers and wildlife.

(Fredericksburg is about an hour from Medina Lake)

Public library in Fredricksburg, Texas Wildflowers in Fredricksburg, Texas

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Stockbridge, Massachusetts Classic New England is what you’ll think when you visit this little town located in the Berkshires of Massachusetts. So quaint, it’s worthy of an artist’s rendering. In fact, Norman Rockwell, who was a resident of the town from 1953 until his death in 1978, did paint the town in his Main Street, Stockbridge at Christmas work.

Stockbridge is also home to the Norman Rockwell Museum which houses the world’s largest collection of his work. The museum also houses Rockwell’s Stockbridge studio which was moved to the museum site. For information on the museum, as well as other exhibits, visit nrm.org.

Waterfall near Stockbridge, Massachusetts

A leisurely tour of the town will take you past historic sites and “summer cottages” from the Gilded Age, as well as shops and restaurants. The Red Lion Inn is the town’s centerpiece. Originally opened in 1773 as a small corner tavern, eventually becoming an inn, it is today one of the few American inns that have operated continuously since the 1800s. The Inn is known for its collection of Colonial antiques. You don’t need to be a guest of the Inn to enjoy dinner in the Lion’s Den or to sign-up for the walking tours of Stockbridge offered through the Red Lion.

The Stockbridge Library, Museum and Archives (stockbridgelibrary.org) is a great place to get insight into the history of the town and area and it contains more than 500 historical artifacts as well as archives from the town’s prominent businesses and families from the past. For more history, visit the Mission House, a National Historic Landmark, which depicts the life of the missionaries and Mohican Indians during the 1700s.

For information on Mission House, visit thetrustees.org.

Visit Chesterwood, the summer estate of Daniel Chester French, who was the designer of the Abraham Lincoln statue that resides in the Lincoln Memorial in Washington.

Take a tour of the home, gardens and studio and enjoy the views. For details, visit chesterwood.org.

One of the town’s most popular events, the 28th Stockbridge Summer Arts & Craft show, is scheduled for August 17-19.

Street view in Stockbridge, Massachusetts 38

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(Stockbridge is about 75 miles from Sturbridge RV Campground)

Three rural homes in Stowe, Vermont

Mountain view near Stowe, Vermont

Stowe, Vermont While Stowe just might be most famous for its skiing, there’s still plenty to do in this mountain town when the snow’s not falling.

Located along the scenic Green Mountain Byway, even getting to Stowe is worth the trip.

Of course, anyone familiar with the Sound of Music would know that the Von Trapp family eventually settled in Stowe after touring the United States as the Von Trapp Family Singers. The mountains and landscape of Stowe reminded them of their homeland, Austria. While the lodge offers accommodations, visitors can also tour the property, Maria’s colorful gardens, and the family brewery. Mark your calendars for September 21 for the 10th Annual Trapp Family Lodge Oktoberfest which will feature Austrian cuisine and von Trapp brews.

Biking in Vermont

Winter skiing may be the main draw for outdoor enthusiasts, but there are all kinds of outdoor fun to be had during the other three seasons, as well. Fishing, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, biking and horseback riding are all available in Stowe. The Stowe Recreation Path, a 5.3-mile paved path, can be enjoyed by walkers, runners and bikers alike, and is easily accessed from town.

More than 30 miles of trails are offered through the Stowe Trails Partnership and are free for public use and can be used for hiking, biking and walking. Trail maps can be found at gostowe.com/ listing/stowe-trails-partnership.

For a unique way to explore Stowe’s outdoors, check out the guided dog cart tours offered

by Peace Pups Dogsledding.

Visitors should note that cart tours are typically run when the weather is cooler, so don’t plan

Brewery in Vermont

on one if you’re visiting over summer.

However, guided bike tours and brewery and distillery tours are on the summer schedule. For a forested hike, you might consider Pinnacle Trail, a 3.7 mile trail just outside of town.

The Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum, located in town, is dedicated to preserving Vermont’s skiing and snowboarding history. The museum houses more than 8,000 items related to these snowy sports.

For information visit vtssm.org.

Stowe has plenty of annual events to enjoy including the Spruce Peak Folk Festival, scheduled for August 10; the Stowe Jazz Festival, scheduled for September 6-8, and the annual Chowderpalooza every May and the Stoweflake Balloon Festival in July.

(Stowe is located about 2 hours from Tuxbury Pond)

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The elusive Tufted Puffin

Port Townsend, Washington A Victorian seaport city, Port Townsend is at once charming and funky and definitely a place worth visiting. Walk along Water Street and enjoy the shops that include a mix of book stores, antique shops, clothing and home goods, as well as art galleries. For a bit of history, visit the Jefferson Museum of Art and History, housed in the town’s former jail, and learn about the area’s history as well as view interesting art exhibits. Visit jchsmuseum.org for museum hours, admission price, and more.

Lighthouse in Port Townsend, Washington

Of course, as a port city, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Port Townsend by water including kayaking from one of the town’s two public marinas (kayak rentals are available if you don’t bring your own) or a tour via the Puget Sound Express (pugetsoundexpress.com), which offers several tours including bird watching and whale watching. Check out their Puffin Cruise, a 3-hour cruise that will take you to Protection Island, home to thousands of nesting birds, such as gulls and cormorants, and promises a possible glimpse of the elusive tufted puffin.

Port Townsend has several annual festivals including the Rhododendron Festival in May, the Orca Festival in June, the Wooden Boat Festival in September and the Ukelele Festival in October.

(Port Townsend is a little over a two hour drive from Birch Bay, Tall Chief, and Thunderbird) Docked Boats in Port Townsend, Washington

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Ocean view of Carmel-By-The-Sea, California

Carmel-By-The-Sea, California A cozy beach town, Carmel-By-The-Sea packs a lot of charm into its approximate one-square mile that includes shops, art galleries, restaurants and wine tasting rooms, all located just steps from the sand and surf. Visit the Welcome Center and get a map to take a quick, self-guided walking tour or take the Carmel Art Tour, a guided, 90-minute tour of some of the best galleries in town (carmelartours. com). If you’re visiting during the second Saturday of the any month, don’t miss the Carmel Art Walk, a free tour of the galleries where you can meet the artists.

Rocky Coast off of Carmel-By-The-Sea, California

Head down Ocean Street and you’ll find yourself at Carmel Beach, a dog-friendly, white sand beach where surfers and beach-lovers commingle to enjoy the Pacific Ocean. There is also the Scenic Bluff Path that takes you past soaring Cypress trees and gardens straight to Carmel Point, a great spot for a photo op!

Plan to hit the beach on September 21 when the 59th Annual Sandcastle Contest will be held.

Other upcoming Carmel-By-The-Sea events include the 31st Annual Taste of Carmel (October 3), the city’s 103rd Birthday Party and Parade (October 26) and the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony (December 6).

Cypress trees in California

(Carmel-By-The-Sea is about 50 miles from San Benito) ¾

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who is in the kitchen with TRAILBLAZER? 42

AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

let’s make

lemonade!

Pucker up and get ready to celebrate National Lemonade Day on August 20th with these recipes that go from the old triedand-true to something new for when life gives you lemons!

Classic Lemonade Ingredients: 1 cup sugar 5 cups water 6 lemons Ice

Spicy StrawberryJalapeño Lemonade Ingredients: 1 quart strawberries, hulled and split into quarters lengthwise ½ jalapeño pepper, seeds and ribs removed,

Combine in saucepan 1 cup sugar, 1 cup water, rind of 2 lemons, cut into pieces

cut into 4 pieces

Stir over low heat until sugar is dissolved. Boil about 7 minutes. Cool.

Add 1 cup lemon juice (5-6 lemons) 4 cups ice water. Pour over ice in pitcher or tall glasses.

1 cup fresh juice from 5-6 lemons

(Recipe from Betty Crocker’s Picture Cookbook, 1950)

Check out more fun summer recipes at trailblazermagazine.net

¾ cup sugar Pinch salt 3 cups cold water 1 quart ice Combine strawberries, jalapeño slices, sugar, and salt in a medium bowl and toss to coat. Let rest for 30 minutes.

Remove and discard jalapeño slices. Set aside 1 cup of macerated strawberries for garnish. Transfer remaining strawberries and any exuded juices and syrup into a blender. Add lemon juice. Blend on high speed until smooth, about 1 minute. Strain through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher. Discard solids. Add reserved strawberries and cold water and whisk to combine.

Add ice. Serve in ice-filled glasses garnished with a strawberry and a jalapeño slice.

(Recipe from www.seriouseats.com)

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FUN QUOTES FROM

TRAILBLAZER’S ‘ON THE ROAD’ SERIES

BY LYNN AND CELE SELDON Whether you spend life on the road for work or pleasure, it’s nice to have the comforts of home as you travel the highways and byways. Over the years, Cele and Lynn Seldon at Seldon Ink have interviewed a number of well-known individuals, as well as several musical groups, who spend a lot of time on the road, to see just what makes their homes away from home so special.

In honor of the 50th anniversary of Thousand Trails, the Seldons chose 50 favorite answers to questions from their popular “On the Road” interviews.

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KWAME ALEXANDER

ERIC BABIN

JOE BONSALL

(Poet, Educator, and Children’s book author)

(Radio Trop Rock owner and famed DJ)

Any favorite places you like to eat on the road?

In Charleston, South Carolina, the shrimp and grits at Magnolia’s.

Indulge Cupcake in Atlanta.

What are a few favorite destinations and why?

Each year, the largest trop rock convention takes place the first weekend in November in Key West.

It’s called “Meeting of the Minds” and brings in about 5,000 folks to Key West to share the fun.

(The Oak Ridge Boys) What’s your favorite thing about traveling and sleeping in your tour bus instead of staying in a hotel?

I write about this quite a bit in my new book On The Road With The Oak Ridge Boys in a complete chapter called “The Bus.”

BALSAM RANGE (Famed Bluegrass Band)

MAYA ANGELOU (“America’s Poet,”) What are some of your favorite destinations?

There’s no city—no destination— in which I feel strange. I’m an American. I belong where my bus takes me. Everywhere I stop, I feel comfortable. I like taking the scenic routes when I have that much time.

ANNIE MOSES BAND (Crossover strings and vocals family band) What’s it like traveling with your six siblings?

Annie Wolaver Dupre: I think your average person has a difficult time imagining what that would look like.

For us, it’s very natural. We’ve been doing it such a long time. We spend about 200 days out of the year on the road, and we love it.

AXEL & ASH (Hanna Axelsson Sahlen and Ashleigh Powell, Australia’s “Swept Away by Wanderlust” travel journal creators) What are some favorite meals onboard on the road?

Hanna: For Ash, brekky [Australian for breakfast] was definitely a favorite—oats, fruit, and almond milk. For dinner, our favorite meal was salmon and a big kale and avocado salad.

What are a few favorite venues and why?

Caleb Smith: Oh, yeah! And we’d love to play Red Rocks in Colorado.

It just looks like such a spectacular amphitheater.

Tim Surrett: Merlefest is a great venue and we love Thompson Bowling Arena on the campus of UT Knoxville.

Buddy Melton: It’d have to be the Ryman for me! It just has so much history…which is a big part of the reason we play music anyway.

Marc Pruett: The next destination is always my favorite.

JARED BLAKE (Country star from Season #1 of The Voice) Can you tell us about the background of your bus and its relationship to Johnny Cash?

I’m obsessed with Johnny Cash.

Partially because of the man, partially because of our likeness.

We have a lot of similarities. I seem to keep doing the things he did except I don’t find out that he did [them] until after I did.

JO ANN BENDER (Snowbirds RVing memoir author) Was Snowbirds written during the trip or once back home?

As a former journalist, I’m addicted to writing and to keeping a travel diary. Snowbirds was written as we made our way down the coast and through the Southwest.

CURTIS BRALY (Country Music Star) We hear you’re also a licensed pilot and have your own plane.

Tell us about that.

I spent a couple years living in Alaska back in the day. I quickly learned while I was there that the most popular hobby of Alaskans was flying.

T. GRAHAM BROWNE (Singer, songwriter, and jingle extraordinaire) We understand you are a huge Andy Griffith Show fan. Have you ever been to Mt. Airy, North Carolina, Andy Griffith’s hometown and the fictional home of Mayberry?

Who doesn’t like Andy Griffith? I was just there last month. I’ve been there a lot of times. Last time I was there, I had a picnic with a tourism guy who worked for the city. After we got home, a concrete statue of Andy Griffith showed up at my house.

DEBBIE COCHRAN (Country artist) Where do you like to eat on the road?

We love to dine with Cracker Barrel.

They have parking provided for RVs. If Elmer [her husband and fellow RVing enthusiast] has green beans, he’s a happy camper.

DAILEY & VINCENT (Bluegrass stars) What’s your favorite thing about staying on your RV versus a hotel room?

Darrin Vincent: I love to hear the generator run. Seriously. I love the idling. It just puts me to sleep. I’ve known a lot of artists who say when

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GUY FIERI (Restauranteur, best-selling author, and Food Network star) Are there any states you haven’t been to?

I’ve heard Montana is one of the most unbelievable places in the world and we’d love to get there.

One thing I’d love to say about RVing—I encourage more road trips.

Just get out there and see it. Meet the people, eat the food, see the sites!

MICKEY GILLEY they get home it’s so quiet that they can’t sleep. They’ve asked their driver to pull the bus up and leave the generator running outside their window.

CHARLIE DANIELS What’s your favorite thing about staying on your bus versus a hotel room?

I hate packing. I despise packing and living out of a suitcase. I’m not a very neat sort of person and it always seems like everything I want is in the bottom of the suitcase.

JOHN DAVIDSON (Long-time entertainer and “Hollywood Squares” icon) How did you get involved in RVing?

My first time was years ago when my children were first born and it was with my first wife. I had a training marriage for 10 years and raised my first two children. My first wife and I rented a 30’ Cruise America in order to do a tour of Oklahoma.

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ERIN DORBIN (Americana historian, photographer, documentarian, and preservationist)

(Of “Urban Cowboy” fame and more)

How did you discover your love of Americana and the American landscape?

The moment I got my driver’s license all I wanted to do was explore.

Any favorite places you like to eat on the road?

One of the guys in the band loves What-a-Burger. We stop at Cracker Barrel because it’s got a good variety of food. If we want a steak, we look for a Longhorn Steakhouse.

DRIVING MISS NORMA

CALVIN GILMORE

The book and upcoming feature film (authors Tim Bauerschmidt & Ramie Liddle) Tell us about Driving Miss Norma [a bestselling book about Tim and Ramie’s RV adventure with Tim’s terminally ill mother, Norma] Tim: We traveled to 15 national parks, 32 states and 13,000 miles on this epic trip. The book is about our travels, yes, but it is also about the emotional journey of tremendous joy, grief, kindness, love, and inspiration that we shared.

(Founder of The Carolina Opry (Myrtle Beach) Has anyone ever approached you at a rest stop or somewhere and asked to see your rig?

Oh yea. Everywhere. I can’t go anywhere in that thing without people wanting to look in and take pictures. Even RV places that I go for maintenance can’t believe it.

They want to take pictures with it. I let people come in for a look. But I don’t let canoeists in because they get it all wet.

LEE GREENWOOD

JOE HAWLEY

(Country music superstar best known for his patriotic anthem, “God Bless the USA”)

(Former NFL lineman turned wandering RV blogger of ManVanDog)

What are a few favorite destinations and why?

Going to small towns. You can pull up in front of a park or next to the venue. It’s a magic moment when relatives and friends come to the bus—particularly with kids. They’re fascinated by the inside of the bus and we love giving tours. I love smaller towns.

Where have you been, and which have been your favorite destinations?

The best part so far has been the baseball games. Seeing all the different stadiums, meeting all the different people at the stadiums.

RHETT GRAMETBAUER

BRAD HERZOG (Veteran RVer and best-selling author)

Tell us about the tailgating.

Tailgating has almost become an art and it is open to interpretation from stadium to stadium as to what tailgating means. To some, it means a giant RV and to others it’s wherever you can find a flat piece of land to eat, drink, and be merry.

What’s the funniest thing that ever happened while you were RVing?

Well, during my solo RV journeys to research my three travel memoirs, I’ve purposely immersed myself in some quirky experiences. I stayed overnight in the parking lot of a Hare Krishna commune en route to Calcutta, West Virginia. I spent a weekend at a nudist campground in Athens, New York (I left with poison ivy).

TIM HAMILTON

HONEY TREK

(Renowned videographer for Mighway and more)

(Mike and Anne Howard, “The World’s Longest Honeymooners”)

We know you’ve enjoyed several Thousand Trails and Encore properties. What was your favorite?

Oh, that’s hard! There were some really great ones. Yosemite Lakes [just west of the Yosemite National Park entrance] was really cool. I really liked the swimming hole.

Tell us about your never-ending honeymoon.

When we were planning our honeymoon, we realized how many places we wanted to explore, all the experiences we wanted to have in our lives.

(Visited all 30 NFL stadiums in one season and wrote a book, 25,000 Miles to Glory)

J. MICHAEL HARTER (Country music star) What are a few favorite things onboard?

I love the in-bunk TVs and DVD players. It’s really cool being able to close the curtain and black out my own personal theatre. Although it may sound strange, I also really like riding in the front seat. I enjoy riding up high and chatting with the driver while watching the world pass by.

ERIC JACKSON (Legendary whitewater kayaker What about favorite rivers reached by RV (U.S. or Canada only, please)?

Wow- so many!

My Favorite is the Potomac River (Great Falls), Maryland!

CODY JOHNSON (Rodeo team roper and western clothing company owner) You spend most of the year traveling from event to event.

Tell us more about your home on the road.

I travel in a 2015 Hart Living Quarters horse trailer pulled by a 2014 Schwalbe Peterbilt truck. The

living quarters are 22 feet and has room to sleep four comfortably—five or six if you don’t mind closeness— and has all the amenities of home: two flat-screen TVs, full refrigerator, microwave, and a really big closet.

The trailer holds four horses, so we can all take a horse with us, and has a huge tack compartment for all our equipment.

LORRAINE JORDAN (Carolina Road bluegrass band) Do you listen to music on the road?

Of course! We play CDs from our collections of other bands and keep it on “Old Country Show” on Sirius XM. When we go through towns that have bluegrass stations, we like to call in and say hi. Currently, we are listening to a lot of Kentucky Headhunters and Eddy Raven.

JUNK GYPSIES (Sisters Amie and Jolie Sikes, known as the top vintage designers in the nation, who created an empire out of other people’s junk) You’ve designed RVs for some pretty bigshot celebrities. How did that come about?

[Country music superstar] Miranda Lambert was the first Airstream that we did. We’ve known her for a while—we’re from the same part of East Texas— and we’ve become good friends. The Airstream came about because she wrote a song called, “The Airstream Song.”

Miranda said that our love of wanderlust and the gypsy lifestyle inspired her to write it. It was so cool!

LYMAN LOUIS (RVing boat captain) Do you find any similarities between sailing and RVing?

There are a few things, what with trip planning and thinking about things in terms of systems and preventative maintenance schedules. I guess the biggest is safety equipment and I’m probably overstocked in that regard.

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EDWIN McCAIN

NU-BLU

(Road warrior rocker, with hit songs like “I’ll Be” and “I Could Not Ask for More,” who has launched more marriages that many ministers)

(Bluegrass road warriors)

What are a few favorite destinations and why?

I have to say home is my favorite destination. Greenville [South Carolina] is the first thing I would mention. I love Austin, Texas, which has an amazing vibe. New Orleans has such a good character. I’ve written many songs there.

MONTGOMERY GENTRY

If you couldn’t be in Nu-Blu, what would you do?

Carolyn: Start another band and do it all again. I’m addicted to music and performing. I love my life!

Daniel: I would be in the business of music—performing is my dream.

I’m just lucky enough to be able to do what I love each day.

Levi: I would be playing music elsewhere. It’s what I’ve always wanted to do and I see myself pursuing it as a career for the rest of my life.

What are some favorite foods on the road?

Eddie Montgomery: Pickled eggs.

Pickled baloney. Oysters. Sardines.

Barbeque. Steaks. We love good food. I’ll eat anything. Then, I can go home and try it on the Big Green Egg. I don’t care what it is, I’ll try to grill it.

CARRIE MOREY (Owner and founder of Callie’s Charleston Biscuits)

CAMERAN NELSON (Country crooner) Is there anything about your bus that we didn’t ask?

Well,we named our bus. Her name is Stormy. We went to Louisiana to pick it up just when the heavy rains and flooding that hit Texas in May really hit our town and the surrounding counties. So, when we got to the place, they asked us if we wanted to name the bus, and I said that Stormy seemed appropriate.

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(Co-founder of Jim ‘N Nick’s BarB-Q, with 40-plus locations and counting) What are a few favorite destinations and why?

New Orleans. Love it. It just never stops! Nashville is a beautiful city right on the river…always things to do there. Charleston…it’s a beautiful town.

JEREMY & STEPHANIE PUGLISI (RV podcasters, bloggers, and authors: RV Family Travel Atlas) What’s your favorite thing about traveling in an RV versus staying in hotel?

Campgrounds are incredibly friendly places and we love meeting other travelers. This does not happen at hotels. We also love having our own bed, kitchen, and bath. [And] not having to sleep in beds others have slept in. Also, we love to escape into nature – which is more likely to happen at a campground.

(Country stars)

What are a few favorite destinations and why?

I love going to the beach with the Biscuitmobile [the name of her RV] because it’s like traveling with your house. And lately we’ve been traveling all over the Southeast, which is great for our business because we wrapped it with tons of Callie’s Biscuits photography, so it’s a moving advertisement.

NICK PIHAKIS

DARIUS RUCKER

DOLLY PARTON What are your three favorite things onboard?

I just love everything about having an RV. It’s like a tiny miniature house.

We both love it. It’s just perfect for the two of us. We have to be selfsufficient for obvious reasons. It’s the whole reason we’re out in our RV. I love my microwave – I like to bring popcorn. I like my refrigerator. But I love, love, love having my own little private bathroom. I can’t very well just stop at a service station – being a celebrity and all, somebody would just follow me in!

What are a few of your favorite things onboard?

Of course, PlayStation 3 and other video games [Darius and his family are big-time gamers]. Wii is next! The coffee machine is very important. It’s a Keurig. And, we have six TVs – three in the lounge up front and three in my bedroom.

I get about 600 channels on the bus through the Dish Network

KEN SCHRADER (Car racing legend) What are a few favorite things onboard?

I have a Hot Diggity Dogger maker that cooks two hot dogs and browns two hot dog buns at the same time.

It’s like a toaster.

JEANNIE SEALY (“Miss Country Soul”) You’ve accomplished so many things in your career. Singing, songwriting, acting, disc jockey, author. Which is home to you?

I would have to say performing. I love to perform because I like that instant gratification. There is just nothing to me like opening the Grand Ole Opry with a real up tempo song.

KEITH SIMS (Former NFL lineman and Go RVing spokesperson) How did you first get into RVing?

My wife had wanted to get into RVing for a while. She wanted to move around, tour the country, and visit cities and historical sites. And she’s also become a germaphobe in the past few years. So, she saw RVing as a great opportunity and a great way to do both. She could have her own bedroom but still be able to go around and tour the country. It was a pretty good argument..

COREY SMITH (Country music star) Tell us about your brand of country music.

There’s more than one way to skin a cat in country music. What makes me different is that I write all these songs—and I write from the heart and live all these songs. But I want to be a part of the country music establishment. Whenever I visit the Country Music Hall of Fame when I’m in Nashville, I leave there being inspired. This is what I’m a part of– and I want to make my mark.

the music of the mountains and, it’s a beautiful place. It’s always been one of my favorite places in the world.

THE ROYS (Award-winning brother and sister bluegrass act) Has anyone ever approached you in a rest stop or somewhere else and asked to see your rig?

Elaine: We get asked all the time and, if we can oblige and it’s not too messy, we let them come through. Plus, in Hendersonville, Tennessee, we are involved with Christmas 4 Kids®. At Christmastime, there are buses from all kinds of entertainers that are parked at the Hendersonville Wal-Mart.

How did you settle on Asheville?

Graham Sharp: A good portion of the band is from Brevard, which is right down the road. My wife is from Asheville, so there were a lot of family connections. The first thing that pulled me to Asheville was the music scene. I loved the history of

RHONDA VINCENT (“Queen of Bluegrass”) What’s your favorite destination?

Our favorite place is Yellowstone.

We’ve taken the bus twice. It’s absolutely our number one favorite place.

TINY HOUSE EXPEDITION (Co-founders Alexis Stephens and Christian Parsons) What are some favorite meals on the road?

We have a very kitchen-centric tiny house. It includes a beautiful butcher block countertop, large pantry space, and an apartment range. This all makes for a comfortable set-up for all the home-cooked meals we cook.

GENE WATSON (Country music legend) How long have you been traveling in a bus?

I’ve been traveling in a bus since ’78 or ’79. It all started with an old GM 4104 and all the trials and tribulations that comes with that.

Then, I finally worked my way up to 1981 and bought a new Eagle. .

DAWN WILSON (Professional wildlife photographer)

STEEP CANYON RANGERS (North Carolina-based bluegrass band)

I have a lot of country hits, but I’m probably more like Billy Joel than George Jones.

PHIL VASSAR (Renowned songwriter and performer) How would you best describe yourself as an artist?

Singer, songwriter, piano player. It’s hard to categorize your music. Some people say country, pop, whatever.

What are your three favorite things onboard?

I haven’t had a gas stove in years and I really like that in the RV. And I like that it’s such a tiny space and it’s convenient. I like the fact that I have a window at the head of the bed and the side of the bed. A lot of times when I’m lying in the bed – which is really comfortable – I’ll pull the shades open and I can actually watch the sun rise or see what kind of critters are running around outside. ¾

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August 19 is National Aviation Day which celebrates the development of aviation.

Of course, the U.S. played a big part in the advent of flying thanks to two brothers from Ohio, Orville and Wilbur Wright. In fact, when the holiday was first established in 1939 by President Roosevelt, the date chosen was, in fact, Orville Wright’s birthday. Celebrate the day and visit some of these spots dedicated to the wild blue yonder.

CELEBRATE NATIONAL AVIATION DAY

by Joan Rykal 50

AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

Start with the Aviation Trail, a self-guided tour in and around Dayton, Ohio, that includes The Wright Cycle Company, where the Wright brothers manufactured bicycles before they began to tinker with the concept of flying machines; the Huffman Prairie Flying Field, where after their success at Kitty Hawk, the brothers continued to perfect the art of flight; and the National Aviation Hall of Fame. (Dayton is less than an hour from Wilmington.)

Less than 30 miles from Fremont RV Campground, aviation buffs will find the EAA Aviation Museum that houses more than 200 historic planes as well as dozens of personal items from astronaut Col. Frank Borman, who flew on both the Gemini 7 and Apollo 8 missions. There is also a D-Day Plus 75 exhibit which commemorates the historic WWII D-Day Invasion.

The Museum of Flight in Seattle (less than an hour from both Tall Chief and Thunderbird) has lots to see and do. From flight simulators to shuttle trainer tours, this museum, which is the largest independent, non-profit, air and space museum in the world, has it all. Aircraft, space craft, history and special exhibits make this a must-do museum. A special exhibit to celebrate the 1969 moon landing, Destination Moon: Apollo 11 Mission runs through September 2.

The Wright Brothers National Memorial can be found in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina (a little over an hour’s drive south from Chesapeake Bay). The site, which is part of the National Park System, is the actual location where the Wright Brothers had their first success with flying. There is also a visitor’s center, a sculpture of the first plane and a reconstruction of the 1903 camp used by the brothers.

The Palm Springs Air Museum, which opened in 1996, is considered one of the top aviation museums in the world. More than 100,000 visitors come to this museum annually to view more than 50 vintage aircraft housed in three hangars. The Pacific Hangar is dedicated to naval aircraft from WWII while the European Hangar has army aircraft from the WWII European Theater. The third hangar includes a B-17 Flying Fortress as well as interactive activities for kids and the opportunity to see the museum mechanics working on vintage aircraft.

Palm Springs RV Campground is a great place to stay while planning your visit to the Palm Springs Air Museum.

The Aerospace Discovery at the Florida Space Museum in Lakeland, Florida, (less than 40 miles from Peace River) has a replica of Howard Hughes’ Spruce Goose included in the collection of aircraft that ranges from vintage to modern day. The museum also includes the Florida Aviation Hall of Fame.¾

Guy Fieri at Chehalis, (WA)

Guy Fieri Camps with Us!

Looks like Guy Fieri decided to get out of the kitchen and instead he chose to get out and camp! Fieri, celebrity chef, restaurateur, cookbook author and host of one of the Food Network favorite shows, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, and his family and friends recently visited several of our campgrounds.

Traveling with a group of 24 happy campers that included family and friends, Fieri was filming for his #RockinRoadTrip.

The Fieri family is no stranger to RVing having traveled around exploring the US for years in their RV when he wasn’t filming one his shows. Fieri was featured in our May 2012 issue of TrailBlazer in our On the Road piece and talked about his travels in his decked-out Sightseer. At the time, Fieri said of RVing – “I encourage more road trips. Just get out there and see it!”

And see it, they did. The team explored the beautiful Pacific Northwest visiting three PNW campgrounds, including Chehalis, Mt. Hood and Bend/Sunriver.

Fieri took to the outdoors in Bend to enjoy hiking, river surfing and Bend’s lava tubes and “had a blast” at the Mt. Hood Bike Park with his sons. The group enjoyed some beach time in Chehalis and took a picture proudly displaying our 100 Days of Camping towel. Fieri shared his camping adventures on his Instragram, always including the #100DaysofCamping tag in each of his posts!

Fieri described our campgrounds as “dynamite” and “a couple of beautiful spots.” We’re so glad he got to spend some time making memories with us!

Check out his pictures at instagram.com/guyfieri.

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Tips and Topics

ASK RVBILL YOUR TECH QUESTIONS ANSWERED!

I have been in the RV industry since I graduated high school in 1972. I retired in 2010, sold my RV business and hit the road full time. I am a part-time consultant and tech writer for the RV industry.

Q

Hi Bill

I have a question about my gas stove. Recently, there have been a couple times where there is black soot all over the top of the stove. The burners have stopped lighting and the striker/igniter is no longer working. Do you know what the problem may be?

Thank you, Lois

A

Hi Lois,

Thank you so much for the question for ask RV Bill.

Normally soot is caused by improper burning of gas, another words the gas air mixture would be so far off that it can’t burn 52

AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

properly. Do you know whether the problem is coming from the oven or from the stove top burners? You mentioned that the burners will no longer ignite, it sounds almost like you’re not getting any gas at all to the stove. At 19 years old I would highly recommend that the LP gas regulator be changed as they can be affected by age and this may be your whole problem. Take it to a qualified technician have them change it and check the gas pressure at the stove. I believe this may take care of your problem. As far as the igniter that’s a separate issue, the Piezo ignitors can wear out over a period of time and can easily be change providing they are available.

Q

Bill,

In the MAY/JUNE 2019, RVs IN MOTION Q&A section, a reader asked about handling issues and options for Thor 2019 F53 chassis Motorhome, to which you gave a great number of extensive and expensive recommendations, but completely ignored the nearly free (~$80 for Hellwig adjustable end links for front if desired), simple, extremely effective and Ford approved, movement of the factory sway bar end links from the outer sway bar end link attachment point to the inner one, which gives the factory sway bar more leverage over the coach. Ford only send all chassis out with the softer position, because they do not

know what the coach builders will install on them or what the users desired handling firmness (does not change ride quality).

There are extensive write ups on this modification on the IRV2 forum, under Cheep Handling Fix or CHF.

A

Mike,

in order for sway bars to be the most effective they should be parallel to the ground or the bottom of the chassis, when moving the bolt to a different hole the angle changes and looses efficiency, when the Hellwig part is installed the angle will change. Perhaps more importantly a larger diameter aftermarket sway bars are 20 to 30 percent more effective, which is the goal for stopping sway side to side.

Q

Dear Bill,

We have a 2018 Montana 3811, purchased in December 2017. It has been in the shop 3 times for the exact same problem and goes back in tomorrow for the 4th time. The two slide outs for the kitchen and living room bleed out when we close our rig up to go home. It may take 24 hours to two weeks, more or less for the slides to ease out. We are concerned about traveling with this problem, as they may come out as we are traveling and not notice it. the shop seems unsure how to

Tips and Topics

properly fix this. We are taking it in again. I’m wondering if anyone else has had a problem like this and if so, how was it properly fixed?

Thank you for your help, Tony & Connie

A

Hi Tony,

I spoke to a friend of mine that is a tech at Lippert the manufacturer of the slide out mechanisms. At this point he believes that a cylinder bypass test needs to be performed. If you have switches for each slide out you only need to do a bypass test on the two slide outs that are malfunctioning, if you have a single switch controlling all three slides you will need to do a bypass test on all three cylinders. I’m assuming that you have the hydraulic slide outs, that is what should be in that you’re Montana although some of them did come through with electric. Get back to me and let me know if this is any help for you.

GOT A QUESTION FOR BILL? SEND AN EMAIL TO ASKRVBILL@EQUITYLIFESTYLE.COM

AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

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Tips and Topics

TECH TOPICS RVing is a great adventure and there’s always something new to learn!

By Paul and Kerri Elders

This month, we’ll take a look at some simple, common sense emergency driving tips and give you an interesting old-school method for estimating your water tank levels as you fill.

Ready? Let’s go!

EASY DOES IT: It’s always important to remember

that, because of their greater weight and size, most RVs take longer to stop than typical cars and light duty trucks. One of the first lessons of safe RVing is training yourself to always maintain a safe following distance between you and any vehicles in front of you. Always allow adequate space between your RV and vehicles ahead of you, one that will permit you to stop slowly and safely.

In an emergency situation, however, you must stop as quickly as your rig will permit. A good example is an all too common one: those instances during nighttime driving when a deer crossing the road freezes directly in your path. This isn’t an uncommon occurrence in free range areas or near bridges or water sources late at night. The safest way to stop in this type of situation is to apply the maximum amount of braking power while holding the RVs path straight ahead. Always try to prevent ¾ jerking the RV to the left or right in an attempt to avoid hitting the animal.

This will help minimize (and hopefully avoid) damage to you, your rig, and the deer.

Too many RVers panic in this situation and jerk the steering wheel while applying the brakes, losing control of their RV with dire consequences.

Don’t panic. Stay calm and steer straight while braking evenly and with a little luck both your RV and the deer will be none the worse for wear.

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AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

And please remember: always slow down when driving any RV at night, especially when traveling through wildlife areas.

ELECTRIC STEP MAINTENANCE: Electric entry steps will serve you well for many years, with just a little bit of simple, routine maintenance. Make it a habit to inspect and lubricate your electric steps monthly. It’s easy to do and doesn’t require a lot of time. Take a few minutes to check for loose or corroded wires or worn parts. Work with care, staying aware of your physical position so that you can quickly move clear of the step and the mechanism in case of an accidental activation. Nobody wants pinched fingers!

Clean all mud, salt, and road grime from the step before lubricating, and lubricate all moving parts (like bearings, pivot points, slides, clevis pin, and drive linkage) every 30 days with a good quality grease that is moisture- and heat-resistant, such as Kwikee’s Kwik Lube Spray Grease, which sprays on like a penetrating oil, but becomes the consistency of a protective grease after application.

Carefully wipe away any overspray to prevent slipping and to prevent tracking greasy footprints inside your RV.

OLD SCHOOL WATER TANK TOPPING TIPS: Even though most RVers rarely think about it, it’s important to know just how much fresh water you’re carrying in your holding tanks on every trip.

Why? Because the amount of water you decide to carry with you equals a certain amount of extra weight.

Of course you want enough water on board to satisfy your needs, but you shouldn’t carry so much that it

overburdens your RV. Surprisingly, excess weight in your RV adds to your fuel costs over the course of a long trip. A single gallon of water weighs approximately 8.33 pounds; that means a fully-loaded 70 gallon water tank adds a whopping 583 pounds to your RV’s travel weight!

A simple method to estimate how much water you have on board is by having someone watch your holding tank monitoring panel as you’re filling the freshwater tank. When the monitor panel’s indicator reaches 1/4 full, stop filling. If your tank has a capacity of 70 gallons, you’ll have approximately 18 gallons of water on board at the 1/4 tank mark. But this is just a rough estimate and even though these monitors are helpful for estimating water levels, they are not always 100% accurate.

A much more accurate “old school” measuring method involves using your freshwater hose, a bucket and a wristwatch with a second hand.

Simply time how long it takes to fill the bucket with water. For example, let’s say you perform this test with a five gallon bucket and find it takes one minute to fill it. That lets you know while you’re filling your freshwater holding tank, you’re adding 5 gallons of water every minute. So, in our example, in 4 minutes, you’ll add 20 gallons of water to your freshwater tank. 5 gpm (gallons per minute) x 4 minutes = 20 gallons. Keep in mind this is just an example and your fill rate will vary at different locations/campsites, depending on the available water pressure and your hose size, so take your own measurements and adjust accordingly. Happy trails!

Check out more tips & tricks on trailblazermagazine.net

Tips and Topics

4 PAWS ON THE ROAD

by Jenn Swope Traveling and Camping with Companion Animals Email Jenn your questions and share your pics to JennSwope@gmail.com Chewing bones exercises the jaw, massages gums and cleans teeth naturally; make sure you look for bones that are 100% human grade, antibiotic and steroid free without added hormones.

Hi Jenn, OK. Please highlight for me why raw food & raw bones are so good? I completely understand why pets benefit from a variety of protein sources, and I know the importance of never feeding a dog or cat a cooked bone as they can splinter. I know you are a raw food advocate and I appreciate your guidance and education.

Thank you, Jeff Burns I’m happy to give a breakdown for clarity.

Why bones? A moisture rich, natural healthy treat, raw bones support optimum hydration, and greatly supplement amino and essential fatty acids into your pet’s diet. All the way to the marrow, raw bones are your pet’s most biological form of entertainment for great reason!

Offering human grade bones is ideal for gum and tooth nourishment.

Why Raw? Simply put, feeding raw is the most biologically appropriate way to feed cats and dogs. It’s critical that safety and quality is assured when feeding raw to be sure that foods are free of pathogens such as listeria, e-coli and salmonella. The only way this food safety can be preserved is that ingredients need to be manufactured and distributed by companies who have incredibly high ethical standards and use third-party inspection labs to ensure quality control. What this translates to is you cannot safely buy your raw food from the grocery store and feed it with 100% assurance. Raw foods are filler free making them nearly 100% digestible. The nutrients are easily absorbed and aid in optimal hydration for your pet. This means healthier urinary tract and cellular function throughout the body – the naturally occurring enzymes in raw meats, organic fruits, vegetables and poultry aid in superior digestibility of proteins, vitamins, fat, and minerals. All of these factors add up to lean muscle mass that helps maintain a healthy weight, strong immune system and a beautiful coat.

Hi Jenn, My family has only ever owned dogs - never had a cat. We are looking to get a kitten & travel with it the RV. We want to do limited vaccines and take the cat on walks. Thoughts/advice?

Andy Mcallister

Cats can be excellent traveling companions, especially when they are accustomed to regular mobile outings.

Find a kitten that has an outgoing disposition and plan to have the pet spayed or neutered early on, per your vet’s recommendation and have a microchip placed for safety’s sake.

Be sure to complete the kitten’s vaccination series and re-booster after the first year, then Rabies every three unless a state/country law delegates otherwise. After the first year vaccination booster on the complete series, I switch to pulling a blood work titer rather than adding additional vaccines. A pet specific, wellventilated travel crate lined with a soft blanket or t-shirt that smells like you will become a secure den that can always be with your cat to provide comfort and calm. Always transport kitty in that crate and be diligent to take kitten as many places as possible to establish an ease of familiarity with the car, regular stops, and new sights and sounds. Consider a soft harness that kitty can grow accustomed to as you plan to walk her/him in the future.

Hopefully by then, the kitten will have bonded with your family and feel confident in all aspects of on the road adventures. Always provide fresh water and give kitty a little litter box as to avoid any accidents to make travel more enjoyable for everyone involved.

I highly suggest feeding kitten wet foods and raw for their lifespan to keep hydration paramount and decrease the chance of urinary crystals from forming and ward off diabetes.

Check out on Instagram @1bike1world for an amazing personal blog of man, his bike and a cat that adopted him and their now shared exploration of the world! Cats are truly incredible creatures; even more so if we allow a bond of trust to be developed.

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Member Deals

Thousand Trails Members Always Save On RV Sites & Rentals at RVontheGo.com

Venture In Early Bird Special

$100 Off 3 Month Stay Valid at Venture In

Call To Book Valid on all RV sites Valid 5/1/20 - 10/31/20. Book by 8/15/20.

Promo Code : SEBAZ100

California

$100 Off 3 Month Stay

Valid at Palm Springs Oasis

Call To Book Valid on all RV sites Valid until 4/30/20. Book by 12/31/19 Min stay 90 nights, max stay 180 nights

Promo Code : TT100

Thousand Trails Standard Discount:

20% OFF 10% OFF Daily Rates for RV Sites & Rentals

Monthly Rates for RV Sites & Rentals

Use Promo Code:

Use Promo Code:

TT20%

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Valid at Campgrounds and RV Resorts available at RVontheGo.com *Restrictions/exclusions apply and are listed at bottom of this page.

Arizona Arizona

$100 OFF 3+ Month Stay

Valid at Araby Acres, Countryside, Foothills West, Golden Sun, Monte Vista and Valley Vista

Call To Book Valid on standard RV sites Valid until 4/30/20. Book by 12/31/19 Min stay 90 nights, max stay 180 nights

Promo Code : TT100

$125 OFF 3+ Month Stay

Valid at Cactus Gardens, Capri, Casita Verde, Desert Paradise, Fiesta Grande, Foothill Village, Mesa Spirit, Mesa Verde, Paradise RV, Suni Sands, ViewPoint and Voyager

Call To Book Valid on standard RV sites Valid until 4/30/20. Book by 12/31/19 Min stay 90 nights, max stay 180 nights

Promo Code : TT125

$1095

4 - Month Fall Special Valid at Mesa Spirit

Call To Book Valid on standard RV sites Valid 9/1/19 – 12/31/19.

Book by 8/31/19

Promo Code : Fall1095 *Restrictions/exclusions apply and are listed at bottom of this page.

**Subject to availability. Reservations required. Rates based on standard site unless otherwise specified. Stays 30 days or less are subject to $4 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 offer 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. Offers not valid at Grey’s Point Camp.

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AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

Arizona South Texas

$100 OFF 3+ Month Stay

Valid at Alamo Palms, Country Sunshine, Fun-N-Sun, Paradise Park, Southern Comfort, Tropic Winds, Victoria Palms

Call To Book Valid on standard RV sites Valid until 4/30/20. Book by 12/31/19 Min stay 90 nights, max stay 180 nights

Promo Code : TT100

$125 OFF 3+ Month Stay

Valid at Lakewood, Paradise South

Member Deals

Thousand Trails Members Always Save On RV Sites & Rentals at RVontheGo.com

RVontheGo.com Call! Click! Camp!

1 (888)-443-7301

Virginia

20% OFF Daily Stays

Valid at Bethpage Camp-Resort

Call To Book Valid on all RV sites Valid until 9/1/19. Book by 8/29/19.

Min stay 2 nights, max stay 6 nights

Promo Code : BETHTT20 *Restrictions/exclusions apply and are listed at bottom of this page.

and Sunshine RV

Call To Book Valid on standard RV sites Valid until 4/30/20. Book by 12/31/19 Min stay 90 nights, max stay 180 nights.

Promo Code : TT125

Florida

20% OFF Weekly/Monthly Stays

10% OFF

Valid at Sherwood Forest RV Resort, Clerbrook Golf & RV Resort, Lake Magic RV Resort, Southern Palms RV Resort, and Crystal Isles RV Resort.

Valid at Victoria Palms

Call To Book

Call To Book

Valid on all RV sites Valid until 9/1/20. Book by 8/18/19 Min stay 14 nights, max stay 31 nights

Nightly Stays

Valid on standard RV sites Valid 8/1/19 - 10/31/19. Book By 10/15/19.

Min stay 2 nights, max stay 6 nights

Promo Code : TTVP10 *Restrictions/exclusions apply and are listed at bottom of this page.

Promo Code : TTFLM20 *Restrictions/exclusions apply and are listed at bottom of this page.

**Subject to availability. Reservations required. Rates based on standard site unless otherwise specified. Stays 30 days or less are subject to $4 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 offer 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. Offers not valid at Grey’s Point Camp.

AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

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MAXIMIZE

YOUR OPPORTUNITIES More Freedom to Explore!

Enjoying the benefits of your Thousand Trails Camping Pass? Then you’ll love what our premium upgrade options have to offer. Get nationwide access to our premier campsites and resorts, keep the fun going with longer maximum stays, plan further ahead with extended booking windows, and much more!

Call today (888) 842-8617 or visit ThousandTrails.com/member-upgrade For more information, see a Membership Specialist on your next vsit!

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AUGUST AUGUST 2019 2019 TRAILBLAZER TRAILBLAZER

Get More Locations Plan Further Ahead Explore New Accommodations Travel Club See if a Membership Upgrade is Right for You! Which Camping Pass Upgrade is right for you?

Camping Pass

Elite Basic

Elite Connections

Booking Window

60 Days

120 Days

180 Days

Maximum Stay

14 Days

21 Days

21 Days

Thousand Trails

Access to Campgrounds in your zone(s)

Park to Park Family Access Reciprocal Network Getaway Cabins Travel Club

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. The 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.

AUGUST AUGUST 2019 2019TRAILBLAZER TRAILBLAZER

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C RO S SWO R D

ACROSS 1 Weavebird 5 Compass Direction 8 P.I. Dyewood Tree 12 In the same place (Lat.) 13 Rend 14 Victory site of Napoleon 15 Lija 17 Ger. admiral 18 Corpulent 19 Alliance 21 Move a camera 22 Soul Spirit (Fr.) 23 Glowing 25 Tyro 29 Earth 32 Cone of silver 33 Briefly contemporary 35 36 38 34 40 60

Ruminant String of Mules Sea of green Beleaguerment Fly

AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

42 43 45 47 50 52 54 55 56 57 58 59

Kind of keel Bachelor of Fine Arts (abbr.)

Dravidian Language Detective Berne’s river Regatta (2 words) First principles Romanian money Black Ooze Addams Family Cousin Rubber Tree

DOWN 1 Trivial quarrel 2 Son of Samuel 3 Handle 4 Soft Drink 5 Grape Vine Disease 6 Unless (Lat.) 7 Spartan Magistrate 8 Fr. pronoun 9 Granat (2 words) 10 Fancy

16 20 22 24 25 26 27 28 30 31 34 37 39 41 43 44 46 47 48 49 51 53

Smoke Used to express negation Drove of horses Car Amazon tributary With (Ger.) Dropsy Sinbad’s Bird Classic car Scot. alder tree Recalcitrant Cereal grain or grass Lively song Heb. Teacher Semitic deity Gooseberry Water filled ditch Forbidden Ecology (abbr.)

Recent (suf.)

Yorkshire River Alkali

S U D O KU

Find The Evergreen Tree An evergreen tree is hidden somewhere in this issue.

Send us a postcard telling us where you found it, and if your card is drawn you’ll win a $25 American Express® Prepaid Gift Card.

Ralph Rickel Jr. of Bellevue, WA

found the tree on Page 38 of the July Issue.

Did you find the tree in this issue?

Send your entry (postcards only) to: TrailBlazer Evergreen Tree Two North Riverside Plaza Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606.

Postmark deadline is August 5, 2019 and remember – the tree could be a different color and size.

Terms and Conditions for 2019 Referral Promotion from page 2.

For each Eligible Referral (as defined) through December 31, 2019, you will receive a $50 Virtual Visa® Reward Card. In addition, for each Eligible Referral through December 31, 2019, 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, that includes round trip coach airfare for two adults from the continental United States to either Hawaii or Florida, and one hotel/cruise room for 7 nights; (ii) Second Prize is a trip to either Las Vegas, San Francisco or Orlando, valued at $2,000, that includes round trip coach airfare for two adults from the continental United States to either Las Vegas, San Francisco or Orlando and one hotel room for 4 nights and (iii) ten (10) Third Prizes waiving payment of the winners’ annual dues for 2020, not to exceed $585 each.

The trips do not include taxes, meals, beverages, transfers, gratuities, activities and other personal expenses. Prizes cannot be exchanged for cash.

The drawing will be held at our corporate offices on or about January 7, 2020. The winners will be notified by telephone. The odds of winning a prize 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 Camping Pass from us between January 1, 2019 and December 31, 2019 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, (a) residents of AZ, FL, NV, and PA 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, FL, NV, or PA, and (b) residents of AZ and PA are not eligible to receive a $50 Virtual Visa® Reward Card and you will not receive a $50 Virtual Visa® Reward Card for purchases made by residents of AZ or PA. 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 MHC Property Management, L.P. 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 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.

AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

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PREFERRED RV DEALERS Check out member specials on parts, service, and sales by visiting our preferred RV Dealer partners listed here.

A Great Outdoor RV Center TX - Canton • agorv.com Affinity RV AZ - Dewey, Prescott, Prescott Valley affinityrv.com Al’s Trailer Sales OR - Salem • alstrailers.com All Valley RV Center CA - Acton • allvalleyrvcenter.com Alpin Haus NY - Amsterdam, Port Jervis, Saratoga alpinhaus.com American Family RV VA - Chesapeake, VA - Salem americanfamilyrv.com Appleton Camping Center WI - Appleton • appletoncamping.com B&B RV CA - Anderson • bbrv.me Bama RV AL - Dothan • bamarv.com Baydo’s RV of Chehalis WA - Chehalis • baydosrvs.com

Braun’s Fun Time Campers IN - Indianapolis • funtimecampers.com Browns RV SC - McBee • brownsrvsuperstore.com Burlington RV Superstore WI - Sturtevant • burlingtonrv.com Camperland Trailer Sales TX - Conroe • camperland.net Campers Inn CT - Union FL - Leesburg, Jacksonville, Ocala IN - Clarksville SC - Myrtle Beach NC - Kings Mountain, Mocksville, Raleigh NH - Kingston, Merrimack PA - Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, MA - Raynham VA - Fredericksburg GA - Macon, Atlanta • campersinn.com Canopy Country RV Center WA - Ellensburg, Union Gap canopycountry.com Charlie Obaugh RV VA - Staunton • charlieobaughrv.com Chesaco RV MD - Joppa, Frederick, Gambrills PA - Shoemakersville • chesacorv.com

Big Country RV OR - Bend, Redmond • bigcrv.com

Clear Creek RV WA - Silverdale, Puyallup clearcreekrvcenter.com

Blade Chevrolet RV WA - Mt. Vernon • bladerv.com

Cleveland RV GA - Cleveland • clevelandrvsales.com

Blue Dog RV CA - Redding ID - Coeur D’Alene ID - Post Falls NV - Las Vegas OR - Bend OR - Gresham OR - Medford OR - Redmond WA - Fife WA - Kennewick WA - Pasco WA - Spokane Valley • bluedogrv.com

Coastal RV VA - Carrolton • coastalrv.com

Boat-N-RV NY - West Coxsackie SC - Ridgeland PA - Hamburg • boatnrv.com

Crossroads Trailers NJ - Newfield • crossroadstrailers.com

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AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

Economy RVs MD - Mechanicsville • economyrvs.com Ellis Travel Trailers GA - Statesboro • ellistraveltrailers.com ET Quality RV CA - Two locations in Yuba City etqualityrv.com

USA A&L RV Sales TN - Christiana, Johnson City, Sevierville alrvsales.com

Dunap Family RV TN- Knoxville, Chatanooga, Nashville KY- Bowling Green• dunlapfamilyrv.com

Colerain Family RV IN - Indianapolis OH - Cincinnati, Dayton, Columbus colerainrv.com Conejo Wholesale Auto and RV CA - Thousand Oaks conejowholesaleauto.com Country Camping Corner NC - Kings Mountain • countrycamping.com

Cunningham Campers, Inc. IN - Jeffersonville • cunninghamcampers.com

FIFE RV Center WA-Fife • fifervcenter.com Floyd’s RV OK - Norman • floydsrvs.com Freedom RV WA - Liberty Lake • freedomrvusa.com Funtime RV OR - Tualatin • funtimervinc.com Gerzeny’s RV World FL- Nokomis• gerzenysrvworld.com Gibs RV Superstore OR - Coos Bay • gibsrvsuperstore.com Gloucester RV Sales & Service VA - Hayes • gloucesterrv.net Grand View Trailers Sales VA - Bedford • grandviewtrailersales.com Halterman’s RV WA - Arlington, Burlington • haltermansrv.com Hayden’s RVs VA - Richmond • haydensrvs.net Haylett RV MI - Coldwater • haylettautoandrv.com HItch RV DE - Milford NJ- Berlin• hitchrv.com Indian Valley Camper Center PA - Souderton • ivccrv.com Jeff’s Couch’s RV Nation OH - Hamilton • couchsrvnation.com Johnson RV OR - Sandy WA - Fife • johnsonrv.com Keystone RV Center PA - Greencastle • keystonervcenter.com La Mesa RV AZ - W. Phoenix CA - Sacramento, San Diego FL - Ft. Myers, Orlando, Port St. Lucie, • lamesarv.com Lakeside RV Sales SC - Anderson • lakesidervsales.com Lazydays RV AZ - Tucson CO - Denver CO - Loveland FL - Tampa MN - Minneapolis

TN - Knoxville lazydays.com

RVs Northwest WA - Spokane • rvsnorthwest.com

Marjon RV CA - Moreno Valley • marjonrvs.com

CANADA

RV Value Mart PA - Lititz, Manheim, Willow rvvaluemart.com

Action VR QC - Saint-Nicolas • actionvr.ca

Safford RV VA - Thornburg • saffordrv.com

Camp Out RV ON - Stratford • campoutrv.com

Sahara RV NV - Las Vegas • sahararv.com

Canadream AB - Calgary BC - Vancouver ON - Toronto NS - Halifax QC - Montreal YT - Whitehorse • canadream.com

McKay’s RV & Marine Center ME - Holden • mckaysrv.com Media Camping PA - Media • mediacamping.com Mike Thompson RV Superstores CA - Cathedral City, Colton, Fountain Valley, Santa Fe Springs mikethompson.com Northside Family RV KY- Lexington • northsidervs.com Opelika RV Center AL - Opelika • opelikarv.com Open Road RV Center WA - Arlington, Monroe openroadrvcenter.com Out of Doors Mart NC - Colfax • outofdoorsmart.com Patterson RV TX - Wichita Falls • pattersonrv.com Phillips RV Center MI - Mount Morris • phillipsrv.com PPL Motorhomes TX - Cleburne, Houston, New Braunfels pplmotorhomes.com Princess Craft RV TX - Round Rock • princesscraft.com Recreation Plantation RV Sales IL - Lynwood recreationplantationrvsales.com

San Angelo RV TX - San Angelo • sanangelorvs.com Scott Motor Coach RV Center NJ - Lakewood • scottmotorcoach.com Seguin RV TX - Seguin • seguinrv.com Simi RV & Off Road CA - Simi Valley • simi-rv.com Sky River RV CA - Buellton, Paso Robles, Pismo Beach skyriverrv.com Snyder’s RV VA - Virginia Beach • snydersrv.com Strickland Marine & RV SC - Seneca • stricklandmarineandrv.com Stoltzfus RV’s & Marine PA - West Chester • stoltzfus-rec.com Sunbelt RV Center TX - Belton • sunbeltrv.com Sundown RV Center CA - Atwater • sundownrv.com Super Deals RV Inc. GA - Temple • superdealsrv.com

Roadhouse Camper & RV PA - Lake Ariel (Scranton) roadhousecamper.com

TAC RV NC - Moyock • tactrailerandrv.com

Roy Robinson RV WA - Marysville • royrobinsonrv.com

IN - Elkhart • luxefifthwheel.com

Russ Dean Family RV WA - Pasco • russdeanrv.com RV City AZ - Huachuca City • rvcity.net RV Country AZ - Bullhead City, Flagstaff, Mesa, Showlow CA - Fresno NV - Laughlin OR - Coburg WA - Buckley, Fife, Mt. Vernon rvcountry.com RV General Store OK - Newcastle • rvgeneralstore.com RV’s For Less TN - Knoxville • rvsforless.net RV Source TX - Bryan • rvsource.com

The RV Factory Luxe Fifth Wheel The Trail Center SC - North Charleston • trailcenter.com Tonie’s RV VA - Salem • toniesrv.com Toscano RV CA - Los Banos • toscanorv.com TravelTime RV TX - Sulphur Springs • traveltimerv.com Vancouver RV & Park Model Center WA - Vancouver • vancouverrv.com Vogt RV TX - Two locations in Ft. Worth • vogtrv.com Waterdog RV OR - Dayton • waterdogrv.com Welcome Back RV Outlet TX - Athens • welcomebackrv.com Wilder RV WA - Port Angeles • wilderrvs.com

GO VR QC - Ange-Gardien • go-vr.com Horizon Lussier QC - Maryville • horizonlussier.com JCS Entreposage QC - Trois Rivières • entreposagejcs.com Kustom Koach RV Centre BC - Aldergrove • kustomkoachrv.com Lardner’s Trailer Sales SK - Saskatoon • lardners.com Le Centre du Vr Victoriaville QC - Saint-Albert • vrvictoriaville.com Leisure Days RV ON - Aylmer, Kingston, Pembroke, Smiths Falls, Sudbury QC - Buckingham, Gatineau, Sherbrooke NB - Salisbury NS - Truro • leisuredays.ca Leisure Trailer Sales ON - Tecumseh • leisuretrailers.com O’Connor RV BC - Chilliwack • oconnorrv.com Ottawa Camping Trailers ON - Ottawa • ottawacamping.ca Roulottes AS Levesque QC - Châteauguay, Saguenay, Sainte-Hélène, Trois-Rivières roulotte.ca Roulottes Remillard QC - Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu roulottesremillard.com Véhicules Récréatifs JD QC - Sherbrooke • vrjdrv.ca VR Depot QC - Vaudreuil-Dorion • vrdepot.ca VR Emond Plus QC - Sainte-Nicolas • vremondplus.com VR Prestige QC - Terrebonne • vrprestige.com VR Souliere QC - Lanoraie, Lavaltrie vrsouliere.com AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

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y l l a It’s R ! e m i T CLUB CALENDAR 2019 Bounders United (BUTTN)

RVers seeking RVers? Rally clubs

from coast to coast love to meet at our destinations. Join in on the fun!

BUTTN’s are members who own or have owned a Bounder motorhome and belong to Bounders United & Thousand Trails. Please make your own reservations at the RV Resort.

Member # 1 (800) 388-7788; Non-Member # 1 (877) 570-2267.

(No-Host Outing) If you are interested in attending please contact: Yvonne Codde at (209) 207-8184.

Lewis and Clark TTN

TT SINGLES Northwest

New members must be a member of TTN and FMCA. All motorhomes, trailer owners, and 5th-wheels are welcome. Contact Connie Farrar at (817) 454-4612 or email to ttnfmcachapter@gmail.com.

Website: ttnoftexasfmca.com. Blog: ttfmcaralliesandmore.blogspot.com.

Sept 6-8 ......................... Lake Conroe Nov 8-10.........................Medina Lake

Rallies are member-generated.

Main contact: Daphne Bailey, Daphnebailey07@comcast.net.

Sept 27-29 ...................... Seaside, OR

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AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

Mike May: President Lewis and Clark TTN chapter of FMCA. Contact person, Mike May (360) 581-5512 or mmay914@comcast.net.

Aug 12-16...................... Chehalis, WA Sept 9-13......................... Seaside, OR Oct 7-11.................. Whalers Rest, OR

TT of Texas/FMCA

TTN Central CA

Come join us! We are weekday campers and we like LOTS, Ponderosa, & Snowflower, but are open to other locations.

Please check out our Facebook page: RV/CampersofCentralCA(TTN).

Email us at ccttnsingles@gmail.com.

TT Travelers Southern California

We usually meet on the first Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday of each month. In the morning we have coffee, snacks, socialize, and play games. In the evening we have more fun with a potluck and card games. We are looking for more new members.

Come visit us. For information, contact Cecil Schoolcraft, Wagonmaster, (619) 997-9787, or email him at cecilanddonna@aol.com.

Answers – Crossword puzzle can be found on page 60.

Branching Out...

Seeking a Safer Tomorrow

If you’ve got a great story about camping at Thousand Trails, send it to us!

Help the Manatees, Adopt One Today!

Send stories and pictures to tbeditor@equitylifestyle.com or connect with us on social media.

To send us a letter, mail to: TrailBlazer Magazine Attn: TrailBlazer Editor Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606

savethemanatee.org Photo © Wayne Hartley

AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

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Wherever your travels take you enjoy lifes’ delights with passion and

LIVE

All without worry, because if something happens and you need medical evacuation home then

LAUGH & Use your SkyMed membership card to pay the bill and

LOVE IT. ®

18 SERVICES

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1-800-679-2020

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WWW.SKYMED.COM

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LOVE USA

AUGUST 2019 TRAILBLAZER

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