TrailBlazer Magazine - June 2014 by TrailBlazer Magazine

JUNE 2014  $2.00 www.trailblazermagazine.net

Touring

Tennessee A Taste of Asheville A True TrailBlazer: Global Noble

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CIRCLE NO. 165 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

VOL. 36 n ISSUE 5

JUNE 2014 CONTENTS Message from Marguerite 5 Tech Topics 8

Who’s in the Kitchen with TrailBlazer

TrailMix: Big Time Growth in the 1980s

Activities & Events

Spotlight: Walk the Trails with Us

Updates & Upgrades

I Knew I Was a TrailBlazer

A True Trailblazer: Global Noble | Tanganyika Territory

Features: Touring Tennessee 34

The sights and sounds (not to mention the tastes) of Memphis are just one reason to take a driving tour of the Volunteer State. Read the feature on page 34 to see what else you’ll find as you explore Tennessee!

A Taste of Asheville 42 Advertiser Index 50 Crossword Puzzle 50

NEW!

Pet Column: Four Paws on the Road

Thousand Trails Member Deals

Ask RV Bill 60 Sudoku Puzzle 62 Classified Advertising

On Location 66

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Welcome to the Biltmore Estate, America’s largest home, which is visited by more than 1 million tourists annually. To read more about Asheville’s biggest draw as well as find plenty more reasons to visit this great North Carolina City, go to page 42. JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

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MESSAGE FROM MARGUERITE

e are very excited about a few new initiatives in the works including the revamp of our Walk the Trails program as well as another initiative being labeled “1,500 Events of Summer.” To better speak to these new programs, I am turning the reins for this month’s column over to Dan Perlis, our Regional Vice President. ~ Marguerite

beyond. The opportunity to make those memories exists at every preserve.

Let me start off by providing a bit of detail on the thoughts behind our new initiatives. Our goal is to create value, provide an excellent member experience and to provide lasting memories for our members and our guests. On a less formal basis, we’re simply turning up the fun!

Another new initiative is the revitalization of our Walk the Trails program. To read more detail about this program, check out the Spotlight feature in this issue on page 20. This program has been around for quite some time but we thought we’d reintroduce it to you and make a few tweaks that will get you excited to hit the trails. Those include the mileage cards to track your progress and the great pins (pictured on page 21) that you will receive with each mileage milestone you reach in the program.

1,500 Events of Summer! Yes, that’s our plan for the summer of 2014, and here’s how it is unfolding. As a 35-year member, Peggy Boone knows something about what the Thousand Trails experience should be. Her own camping experiences have become multigenerational as both her parents and children love the TT lifestyle. Peggy believes what we offer at Thousand Trails should be an all-encompassing experience that rivals the fun and excitement of popular theme parks. To that end, she has enlisted the help of staff throughout Thousand Trails who serve as Area Recreation Coordinators. These energetic, recreation enthusiasts assist in identifying activities we enjoy as campers and ensure that each preserve provides a wide variety of events, from sports and social activities, to arts and crafts, as well as educational and historical experiences and live entertainment. The Coordinators work with the individual preserves to develop the events you’ll be enjoying throughout the summer. Last month, all subscribers received the Theme Weekend Directory and from the looks of that hefty book, we are on target to provide plenty of fun this season and

When you come to Thousand Trails, we want you to truly relax and disconnect - the experience should be less about electronics and more about family. We want to promote family togetherness!

Club Blazer, our signature activity program for children, is also back! See page 48 for highlights on this popular educational and fun-filled addition to our recreation lineup. These are just a few of the exciting new programs that we’ve put in place to guarantee that your experience at a Thousand Trails campground will not only be one you remember for years to come, but one that you’ll want to repeat again and again! Come join us this season as we celebrate 45 years of making camping memories and ramp up for a lifetime of many more!

Dan Perlis Regional Vice President JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

Mission Statement TrailBlazer provides exclusive news and information for the members and guests of Equity LifeStyle Properties Family of Resorts. Each issue enhances the recreational lifestyle of its readers through a lively mix of camping and travel features, resort profiles and product features. www.trailblazermagazine.net

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

TrailBlazer Magazine

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Address Changes for TrailBlazer can be sent via email to TrailBlazerAddressChanges@ EquityLifestyle.com NEW Subscriptions 1-877-252-9320

TTN & LTR Reservation Services (From United States and Canada) 1-800-288-7245 • 228-497-3594 April 1 to August 31 Mon. - Fri. 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. September 1 to March 31 Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central Time 24-hr. STAR Line: 1-800-859-7827 228-497-3594 Member Services 1-800-388-7788 Resort Parks International Reservations 1-800-456-7774 ELS Reservations 1-877-362-6736 PRINTED IN THE USA

JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

Verde Valley: A perfect place to view the Lunar Eclipse April 14-15. - Eva Searcy, Laughlin, NV

Now Win $50 EACH Issue!

Pics from the Parks Photo Submissions Do you have a winning photo from your visits to our preserves and resorts? We’d love for you to share it with us and what’s more, your submission will now be entered into our photo contest. Winners will receive a $50 American Express Gift Card. Each issue we will select ONE “winning” photo from the submissions received (all submissions must be received by midnight on the last day of the month.) Winning 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: Equity LifeStyle Properties, Attn: TrailBlazer Photos Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800 Chicago, IL 60606 Emailed photos should be high resolution. Photos are not returnable and become the property of Equity LifeStyle Properties and may be used for publication on company websites and promotional purposes. One winner will be selected EACH month from submissions received. The winner will be announced in a future TrailBlazer issue and on the website.

PICS FROM THE PARKS Sunshine Key RV Resort & Marina: Sunset - Bob & Jo Ann Hardy

Pio Pico: Louisa & Clark enjoying Hot Rod & Chili Cook-Off - Don & Michele Madden

JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

Tech Topics by Paul and Kerri Elders

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The summertime travel season is in full swing! No matter which direction your RV is pointed, it’s sure to be another great year for adding happy memories to your Adventure List. This month, we’ll take a look at some practical matters that help keep you safe and sound on the road. We’ll give you a quick reminder of how to quickly and easily estimate safe following distances. We’ll also give you the lowdown on the importance of tire rotation and wheel balancing and give you a few simple pointers to help make towing a toad a little easier.

Quick Toad Tips A toad—short for “towed car”---is an extra vehicle towed behind an RV (almost always behind a motorhome.) Toads are popular traveling accessories for travelers who like to scout the country after setting up camp and nestling their motorhomes into their favorite shaded parking spots. Toads are terrific traveling companions, perfect for sightseeing daytrips, running errands, and shopping excursions. But don’t try to tow a Mack truck behind a small RV. Always size-match your toad to your tow vehicle. Remember that you’ll want to perform all necessary oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid changes for your toad, just as you do for your motorhome. For convenience’s sake, it’s a good idea to keep your toad on the same maintenance schedule as the motorhome you use to pull it. Keep a spare tire on hand, a lug wrench that fits your toad’s wheels, and ALWAYS check the toad’s Owner’s Manual for complete instructions on towability and safe towing practices. Do it wrong, and you can ruin a transmission. Make sure you have your insurance paperwork, registrations, and inspections up to date. And you’ll probably want to invest in a stone guard/ towing guard to protect your toad from wayward stones and debris. Make it a point to periodically check all hardware and pins on your toad (including baseplates) and the hookups on your motorhome, inspecting for damage or wear. Verify that all signal lights and brake lights are working properly and that all tires are in good condition. You ALWAYS want to catch small problems before they become big ones. Follow Me (But Not Too Closely!) A safety tip you might still remember from your Drivers’ Ed Days is the concept of maintaining a safe following distance. “Following distance” is that constantly moving area of empty space between your vehicle’s front bumper and the back bumper of the vehicle in front of you. It’s essential to preserve a suitable “safety

cushion” between yourself and the car ahead so that you can safely stop in any emergency. Maintaining this distance is especially important when driving a heavy vehicle like a motorhome or when pulling a large trailer. Safe following distance is easily calculated by spotting a landmark (such as a traffic sign) on the side of the roadway ahead. Mentally draw an imaginary line across the roadway from the landmark. When the back bumper of the vehicle directly in front of you passes that imaginary line, begin counting slowly “one thousand one, one thousand two,” etc. in roughly one second intervals. Stop counting when your front bumper crosses that imaginary line. Allow at least one second of following distance for every 10 feet of combined length of your vehicle. You’ll need to double this following distance for adverse conditions, including night or twilight driving. For example, if you drive a tow vehicle and fifth wheel with a combined length of 40 feet, you should allow at least four seconds of following distance during favorable daylight driving conditions, but at least eight seconds of following distance during adverse conditions. Rotate Those Tires To keep your RV’s tires in tip-top shape, it’s a good idea to follow your RV manufacturer’s recommendations for tire rotation. Rotation schedules can vary significantly, depending on your RV type. Because of their multiwheel design, Class A motorhomes usually need tire rotation at a less-frequent interval than tow vehicles (like pickup trucks), Class C motorhomes, fifth wheels and travel trailers. Rotating your vehicle’s or trailer’s tires on the recommended schedule will help even out tire wear that can be caused by under-inflation or undiagnosed alignment problems and can help you get the most out of your tire investment. Some manufacturers recommend including the motorhome’s spare in the rotation pattern, and some even suggest changing Continued on page 62

JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

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IMPORTANT CONSUMER INFORMATION: Jitterbug is owned by GreatCall, Inc. Your invoices will come from GreatCall. All rate plans and services require the purchase of a Jitterbug phone and a one-time set up fee of $35. Coverage and service is not available everywhere. Other charges and restrictions may apply. Screen images simulated. There are no additional fees to call Jitterbug’s 24-hour U.S. Based Customer Service. However, for calls to an Operator in which a service is completed, minutes will be deducted from your monthly balance equal to the length of the call and any call connected by the Operator, plus an additional 5 minutes. Monthly minutes carry over and are available for 60 days. If you exceed the minute balance on your account, you will be billed at 35¢ for each minute used over the balance. Monthly rate plans do not include government taxes or assessment surcharges. Prices and fees subject to change. 1We will refund the full price of the GreatCall phone and the activation fee (or set-up fee) if it is returned within 30 days of purchase in like-new condition. We will also refund your first monthly service charge if you have less than 30 minutes of usage. If you have more than 30 minutes of usage, a per minute charge of 35 cents will be deducted from your refund for each minute over 30 minutes. You will be charged a $10 restocking fee. The shipping charges are not refundable. Jitterbug and GreatCall are registered trademarks of GreatCall, Inc. Samsung is a registered trademark of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. ©2014 Samsung Telecommunications America, LLC. ©2014 GreatCall, Inc. ©2014 by firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc.

JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

CIRCLE NO. 159 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

Who’s Cooking in the Kitchen with

Since 2004, the month of June has been designated Great Outdoors Month by Presidential Proclamation. So what better month to highlight “The Great Outdoors Cookbook,” a fabulous new cookbook from the editors of Sunset magazine dedicated to “Adventures in Cooking under the Open Sky?” And this is not just any cookbook -- in addition to the more than 175 recipes, the book also offers tips, DIY projects, step-by-step instructions, and covers three distinct areas of outdoor cooking – Campfires, Home Fires and Inspired Fires.

WIN THIS COOKBOOK! t only be We’re lucky to no just a able to highlight t recipes few of the grea ok, but from this cookbo a chance to also announce aders for five lucky re this to win a copy of book. delightful cook 4. See details on P6

Eggs in Jail SERVES 4 | 30 MINUTES IN CAMP We borrowed this fancy take on eggs-in-a-frame from San Francisco’s Outerlands restaurant. You’ll need a bread knife and a 1½-in. round cutter. 8 slices thick-cut applewood-smoked bacon (10 oz. total) 1 loaf (12 oz.) unsliced brioche* About 4 tbsp. softened butter, divided 4 large eggs About 1⁄8 tsp. each kosher salt and pepper 1. Set a 12-in. cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat on a camp stove. Brown bacon in skillet, 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer bacon to paper towels and drape with foil. Discard fat from pan and wipe pan somewhat clean with a paper towel. 2. Meanwhile, cut 4 brioche slices, each 1¼ in. thick (you’ll have bread left over). Spread both sides with 3 tbsp. butter. Cut a hole in each slice; set centers aside. 3. Put bread in pan, pressing down slightly to flatten, and set over medium-low heat. Put about ½ tsp. butter in each hole, then crack an egg into each. Sprinkle eggs with a little salt and pepper. Cook until bottom of bread is golden, 3 minutes. 4. Flip toast and eggs carefully with a wide spatula. Sprinkle eggs with salt and pepper. Cook until underside of toast is golden and eggs are done the way you like, 3 minutes for softly set. Transfer to plates. Quickly toast bread centers, then set on servings. Serve with bacon. *Find brioche bread at well-stocked grocery stores. PER SERVING 587 Cal., 66% (386 Cal.) from fat; 24 g protein; 43 g fat (22 g sat.); 26 g carbo (1.7 g fiber); 1,214 mg sodium; 453 mg chol.

JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

Cowboy Hot Dogs SERVES 4 | 30 MINUTES IN CAMP The aroma of caramelizing onions builds anticipation for these over-the-top bison dogs, loaded with the onions—plus bacon and barbecue sauce. 1 tbsp. olive oil 1 large yellow onion, cut into half-moons 4 bison* or other hot dogs 4 potato hot dog buns About 6 tbsp. mayonnaise About 2 tbsp. spicy brown mustard, such as Gulden’s About 4 tbsp. barbecue sauce ½ cup shredded white cheddar cheese 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled 1. Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat on a camp stove, or over a charcoal or wood-fired grill heated to medium (350°; you can hold your hand 5 in. above cooking grate only 7 seconds). Add onion and cook until deep golden and very tender, stirring frequently, about 20 minutes. 2.

Meanwhile, if you don’t already have it going, heat a charcoal or wood-fired grill to medium (see step 1). Grill hot dogs until slightly charred all over, about 6 minutes, turning occasionally. Add buns and grill, turning frequently, until warmed and lightly charred, about 3 minutes.

3. Spread buns with mayonnaise and drizzle with mustard and barbecue sauce. Set hot dogs in buns. 4. Sprinkle cheese on top, followed by caramelized onions and bacon. *Find bison hot dogs at well-stocked grocery stores or visit www.highplainsbison.com for online ordering. PER SERVING 633 Cal., 63% (399 Cal.) from fat; 17 g protein; 44 g fat (13 g sat.); 9.5 g carbo (1.7 g fiber); 1,111 mg sodium; 69 mg chol.

Spicy Peanut, Carrot, and

Snap Pea Wraps SERVES 2 | 15 MINUTES IN CAMP Instead of a PB&J, try this crunchy raw-vegetable wrap, with rich, spicy Asian peanut sauce added in. ¼ cup old-fashioned creamy or chunky peanut butter 1 tsp. Asian chili paste 1 tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce 2 whole-wheat tortillas (9 in.) 1 cup coarsely shredded carrots 1 cup snap peas, sliced diagonally In a small bowl, whisk peanut butter, chili paste, soy sauce, and 2 tbsp. water to blend. Evenly divide mixture between tortillas and spread in a rectangle down the middle of each, leaving a small border. Evenly top rectangles with carrots and snap peas, then roll up burrito-style. Make ahead: Peanut butter sauce, up to 3 days, chilled. Wraps, up to 4 hours, sealed in plastic or foil. PER WRAP 396 Cal., 45% (178 Cal.) from fat; 14 g protein; 20 g fat (2 g sat.); 39 g carbo (6.8 g fiber); 547 mg sodium; 0.8 mg chol. LC/VG

JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

Pizza Dough for the Grill

MAKES 6 INDIVIDUAL-SIZE PIZZAS 1 HOUR, PLUS 2 HOURS FOR DOUGH TO RISE Everybody loves pizza, and for a backyard party, guests can have the fun of topping their own and enjoying it right off the grill. Start with this dough, which produces crisp crusts every time; for the easiest party, you can partially grill the crusts before people arrive. Then set out some toppings and the menu will practically cook itself. 1 pkg. (2¼ tsp.) active dry yeast 6 tbsp. olive oil, divided 4 cups all-purpose flour 1½ tsp. salt Toppings 1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, stir yeast into 1½ cups warm water (100° to 110°). Let stand until yeast dissolves, about 5 minutes. Add ¼ cup oil, the flour, and salt. Mix with dough hook on low speed to blend, then mix on medium speed until dough is very smooth and stretchy, 8 to 10 minutes. If you don’t have a stand mixer, mix in the oil, flour, and salt with a wooden spoon, then turn out on a lightly floured work surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes, until dough is very smooth and stretchy. Dough will feel tacky. 2. Cover dough and let rise at room temperature until doubled in bulk, about 1½ hours. 3. Punch down dough and let rise again until doubled, 30 to 45 minutes. Meanwhile, cut 6 pieces of parchment paper, each about 12 in. long. Heat a grill to medium (about 350°). 4. Turn dough out onto a work surface and cut into 6 portions. For each pizza, lay a sheet of parchment on work surface and rub with 1 tsp. oil. Using well-oiled hands, put each portion of dough on a parchment sheet. Flatten dough portions, then pat into 9- to 10-in. rounds. If dough starts to shrink, let rest 5 minutes, then pat out again. Let dough stand until puffy, 15 to 30 minutes.

5. Flip a round of dough onto cooking grate, dough side down. Peel off parchment. Put on 1 or 2 more dough rounds. Grill, covered, until dough has puffed and grill marks appear underneath, 3 minutes. Transfer crusts, grilled side up, to baking sheets. Repeat with remaining dough. (Grilled crusts can stand at room temperature up to 2 hours; reheat grill to continue.) 6. Arrange pizza toppings on grilled sides of crusts. With a wide spatula, return pizzas, 2 or 3 at a time, to cooking grate. Cook, covered, until browned and crisp underneath, rotating pizzas once for even cooking, 4 to 6 minutes. Make ahead: Dough through step 1, covered and chilled, at least 3 hours and up to 2 days (dough will double in size, and flavor will develop as it chills). Whole-Wheat Pizza Dough Straight whole-wheat flour makes the texture of pizza too crackerlike, but mixing it with white flour produces a crust with hearty flavor and a supple springiness. Follow directions for Pizza Dough for the Grill on the left, but use 2 cups whole-wheat flour and 2 cups all-purpose flour, and heat grill to medium-low (300° to 350°).

TRAILMIX

Big Time Growth in the1980s

As we continue to highlight our 45 years of Making Camping Memories, let’s take a look back at Thousand Trails in the 1980s. Let’s face it – in the 1980s everything was big, from hairstyles to shoulder pads. Getting bigger was also something that was happening in the Thousand Trails world, as well. From 1979 to 1989 more than 30 preserves came into the Thousand Trails family; and, in addition to adding preserves in states where Thousand Trails already had a presence, they also branched out to 10 additional states.

California

Our new locations were, like, more popular than a Valley Girl... In 1980, four preserves were added in California. Idyllwild, with its backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains, provided great hiking opportunities as well as winter activities, including snowshoeing. Soledad Canyon offered a gorgeous high desert landscape and was also just 15 minutes from the bustle of Los Angeles. Wilderness Lakes, with 80 acres of lush forest, was known for its fishing while Pio Pico was the “quiet one,” where members went for peace and relaxation (but also for the preserve’s proximity to Mexico and San Diego.) Oakzanita Springs, added in 1981, was another natural beauty, near San Diego, with plenty of activities and popular year-round. In 1983, both San Benito and Lake Minden were added. San Benito offered a great place to camp while exploring California’s Monterey Bay, while Lake Minden’s 41-acre lake provided more fishing, boating and water fun. Drinking in the splendor of northern California’s Wine Country, the acquisition of Russian River in 1984 added another jewel in California. Located in Cloverdale, the

JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

preserve was popular for kayaking, canoeing, rafting and trout fishing. Mid-decade, Palm Springs, Rancho Oso and Turtle Beach joined the family. Turtle Beach’s Central Valley location in Manteca offered fishing and boating on the San Joaquin River, Rancho Oso, bordered by the Los Padres National Forest and the Santa Ynez, River was perfect for horse lovers and hikers alike and Palm Springs was a desert oasis in the gorgeous Coachella Valley.

Texas

More land than the Ewings! In early 1980, America was glued to their televisions to find out “Who Shot JR?” as all things Texas occupied the minds of fans of the popular television show “Dallas.” Texas was also on the minds at Thousand Trails. In 1982, three preserves were added. Colorado River was set amid pecan groves on the shores of the Colorado River. Canoeing and fishing were big activities, plus the preserve was set midway between the bustling big cities of Houston and San Antonio. The “lake” preserves offered more than water fun – Lake Conroe offered bike trails and family-friendly amenities including shuffleboard,

Idyllwild, California

a fitness center, mini-golf and basketball courts, while Lake Whitney, located in the rolling hills of north Texas offered proximity to Dallas-Ft. Worth and equestrian trails. Medina Lake, in the popular tourist destination of Texas Hill Country, offered a serene setting with a glimpse or two of wildlife! Lake Tawakoni, added in 1983, brought 480 acres of oaktree covered terrain and a peaceful place to fish, while Lake Texoma, known as the Striper Capital of the World for its striped bass, brought more opportunities for the fishermen. And in 1984, Bay Landing, on the shores of scenic Lake Bridgeport, brought another Texas choice for family fun.

Chesapeake Bay, Virginia

Virginia

Goodbye Waltons, Hello Thousand Trails! In 1981, NBC aired its last episode of “The Waltons,” a popular television show about a fictional family living in rural Virginia from the 1920s to 1940s. And while viewers said goodbye to the Waltons, Thousand Trails was saying hello to Virginia. In 1983, the Lynchburg Preserve, in Gladys, provided fun for the entire family with beaches and fishing in the heart of the Old Dominion. In short order, Chesapeake Bay, in 1984, provided a coastal Virginia getaway on the banks of the Piankatank River.

Orlando, Florida

The Midwest

Presidents and Campgrounds Did you know that more than 10 U.S. Presidents were born in the Midwest, including Ronald Reagan who was in office during much of the 80s while Thousand Trails expanded to the Midwest in 1984? The Midwest preserves, Michigan’s St. Clair, Indiana’s Horseshoe Lakes and Ohio’s Kenisee Lake and Wilmington, provided homespun heartland fun with lakes, wooded wonderlands and plenty of summer fun. Hershey, on 200 acres of farmland in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch country, was a sweet camping treat.

Palm Springs, California

Continued on page 61.

Verde Valley, Arizona

JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

June Events

Activities and Events

Thousand Trails Preserve

June is shaping up to be a spectacular month at our preserves from an activities perspective. There’s so much going on we decided to make it simple if you’re looking for something specific like a luau, pirate parties or all kinds of games. Of course, Father’s Day is June 15 so there are plenty of events scheduled to honor Dad at the preserves and Member Appreciation events are scheduled preserve-wide for Saturday, June 21.

2014 THeme we ekends

www.ThousandTra ils.co

For a complete listing of events at the preserves, please visit www.thousandtrails.com or check out the 2014 Theme Weekends supplement mailed to all subscribers last month or online at www. trailblazermagazine.net

Hawaiian Luau Do you hula? Get your fill of all things Hawaiian at several preserves in June. Lake Conroe’s (Texas) Luau, on June 21, will feature Leialoha and her fabulous show of authentic native dances. Crescent Bar (Washington) hosts their Luau on June 20-22 with music, food, and games, including Limbo and musical beach towels. Lake Gaston (N. Carolina) is calling their event a Hawaiian Hullabaloo – so bring out your grass skirts and Hawaiian shirts and enjoy food, music and fun the weekend of June 20-22.

JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

Western Daze Activities and Events

Pirate Parties

If you’re looking to walk the plank, sport an eye patch or simply talk like a pirate, check out these events. Timothy Lake South (Pennsylvania) hosts a Pirates Mystery Weekend, June 6-8, and the fun includes a Best-Dressed Pirate Contest and a search for Blackbeard’s Lost Treasure! Natchez Trace (Tennessee) is all about pirates the weekend of June 6-8 with a treasure hunt, scavenger hunt and a Pirate Party with live entertainment. The weekend of June 28-29 is set for Pirates of Central Oregon and guests at Bend (Oregon) will search for treasure. There is also a special treasure hunt planned for children, ages eight and under.

Games!

It’s all kinds of fun western-style as several preserves host western-themed events. Bay Landing’s (Texas) Rodeo Play Days, scheduled for June 6-8, will have you tossin’ cow chips, chuggin’ root beer and learnin’ to rope. There’s also an evening hayride and a chuck wagon dinner planned. South Jetty’s (Oregon) Western Daze, scheduled for June 14, promises cowboy crafts, horseshoes, root beer floats and line dancing, plus live music in the evening. Pacific City’s (Oregon)“Rodeo” will be held June 28 and will feature a horseshoe toss, a golden horseshoe hunt and a Chili, Cornbread and Salsa contest. Live entertainment by Sedona Fire rounds out the day’s events.

Games, games and more games – that’s the concept as several preserves host all kinds of competitive and non-competitive sporting events. Williamsburg (Virginia) gets wacky during Wacky Game Weekend, scheduled for June 6-8. Try your hand at Wacky Golf, Wacky Pool Races, Candy Bar Bingo and Cornhole. Whalers Rest (Oregon) hosts their Minute to Win It weekend with challenges and tournaments planned all weekend long, June 27-29. Gateway to Cape Cod (Massachusetts) invites you to challenge other camping families during their Outdoor Games Weekend, June 27-29, with bocce, horseshoes, softball and pool volleyball events. Horseshoe Lakes (Indiana) has devoted two weekends to sporting fun in June. June 6-8 is Football Weekend with flag football games, while June 20-22 is all about baseball. JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

Animal Safari Activities and Events

A Pet Salute

Animal events abound from special pet events to onsite “safaris.” Bring your best Tarzan scream to Grandy Creek (Washington) the weekend of June 6-8 when the preserve hosts its Safari Weekend. In addition to the Tarzan Scream Contest, there will be wild animal games, animal face masks and a scavenger hunt. Wilmington (Ohio) will host a Jungle Safari Weekend, June 20-22, that includes a jungle craft and family scavenger hunt.

Gateway to Cape Cod (Massachusetts), Hershey (Pennsylvania) and Williamsburg (Virginia) will salute our pets in June. Gateway will host a Pet Parade Weekend, June 6-9 with contests and prizes, as well as a Pet Parade. Hershey’s Pet Show, scheduled for the weekend of June 20-22, includes a Pet/ Owner Look-alike Contest and pet tricks with proceeds benefitting Castaway Critters. And Williamsburg has a Love My Pet Weekend set for June 27-29 with contests and a parade.

If you’re looking to catch the big one, or at least tell a fishing tale, check out these fish-oriented events. Lake Texoma (Texas) is all about fish on June 7, while Paradise (Washington) hosts a Fishing Derby for the whole family, June 13-15. They will also have a limited number of poles for rent, in case you don’t have your own. Lake Minden (California) is also hosting a Father’s Day Fishing Derby, June 13-15, so bring Dad and have some fishing fun.

And just because there’s no specific theme, doesn’t mean there isn’t something fun for everyone at your favorite preserves. So, come visit and see what’s cooking! 18

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LocalEvents Lynchburg, VA June 6-7: Uncle Billy’s Day Festival Two fun-filled days of live music, crafts, food vendors, flea market, carnival, plus Saturday night fireworks. Event is held at English Park & Trade Lot in Altavista, less than 15 miles from the Lynchburg Preserve. Hours are Saturday, 2 to 11 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. For more information visit www.UncleBillysDayFestival.com. Birch Bay, WA June 7: Lynden Farmers Day Parade The Farmers Day Parade is one of the longest running parades in the Northwest. This event features an eclectic menagerie of cars, bands, tractors, trucks and horses in a salute the Agriculture Industry of Whatcom County! Since the early 1900s when the farmers of the Lynden area took to the streets to show off their produce and animals, the Lynden Farmers Day Parade has brought smiles to faces of young and old alike! Parade starts at 10:30 a.m. but you are advised to arrive early. Held in downtown Lynden, just 12 miles from Birch Bay Preserve. For information visit www.lynden.org. Leavenworth, WA June 7: 12th Annual Leavenworth Wine Walk Enjoy tasting local wines whiles strolling through the shops, galleries, and restaurants of beautiful downtown Leavenworth – all just 17 miles from the Leavenworth Preserve. Event hours are noon to 6 p.m. For more information visit www. cascadefarmlands.com. Pacific City, OR June 14: Mutt Masters Dog Show & Olympics Event includes dog competitions for all breeds, sizes and ages, plus doggie vendors, prizes and more! Held at 1545 SE 50th St., just 40 minutes from the Pacific City Preserve. For more information, call (541) 265-6610.

Pio Pico, CA June 14: Grunion Run Get ready for a true Southern California experience! Observe hundreds of small silver fish, called grunion, ride the waves onto La Jolla beaches to spawn. Prepare for cool, wet conditions and bring a flashlight. Event runs from 10:30 to 11:45 p.m. at the Birch Aquarium at Scripps, just 35 miles from the Pio Pico Preserve. For information call (858) 534-7336.

Rancho Oso, CA June 21: Summer Solstice Parade The parade is the largest single-day event in Santa Barbara County, attracting crowds of 100,000 people or more. The parade ends in a beautiful park with vendors and musical groups. Held on State Street in Santa Barbara, just 20 miles from the Rancho Oso Preserve. Event hours are noon-dark. Visit http://www.solsticeparade.com for more info.

Lynchburg, VA June 14-21: 150th Anniversary – Battle of Lynchburg Commemoration A weeklong observance of the events that culminated in the Battle of Lynchburg on June 17-18, 1864, kicks off officially on Saturday, June 14 and runs through Saturday June 21. The commemoration will include Union and Confederate living history encampments, tours, musical entertainment, speakers and more. Headquartered at Historic Sandusky Area, Sandusky Drive in Lynchburg, less than 15 miles from the Lynchburg Preserve. For more information call (434) 832-0162 or visit www.historicsandusky.org.

Pacific City, OR June 25-July 6: Siletz Bay Music Festival Event features two weeks of classical, jazz and musical theater performances by some of the most talented musicians in the world. For more information visit www.siletzbaymusic.org.

Lake Gaston, NC June 18-19: Lake Gaston Big Air Fair – Wakeboarding Event Event begins on Saturday with a kickoff party, autograph session, music, games, and a Big Air Qualifier. The fun continues on Sunday with the AF Wake Show and Pro Big Air Wakeboarding contest. Event is held at Morningstar Marinas, 1865 Eaton Ferry Road, Littleton, just eight miles from the Lynchburg Preserve. For event hours and more details visit www.afwake.com

Morgan Hill, CA Fridays in June: Friday Night Music Every Friday night, from 6 to 9 p.m., enjoy free music at this family-friendly event held at the Morgan Hill Downtown Amphitheater, less than six miles from Morgan Hill Preserve. For more information visit www.morganhill.org.

Grandy Creek, WA June 19-22: 2014 Berry Dairy Days A family favorite since 1937, event features fresh local strawberry shortcake, a spectacular fireworks show, parades, Kiwanis Salmon BBQ, entertainment stage with live music, a nostalgic Berry Cool Car Show and more. For information www.burlington-chamber.com

Activities and Events

Ponderosa, CA June 6-8: American River TrailFest Enjoy live bands, great food, local wines and beers and silent and live auctions, plus activities for kids, all right across the street from Ponderosa Preserve. For more information visit www.arconservancy.org.

Chehalis, WA June 28: Billetproof Northwest - Car Show The best traditional hot rods and customs will gather at the Southwest Washington Fairgrounds for a day of cars, bands, swap meets and fun! Attendance is limited to 750 vehicles so register early. Spectator entrance opens at 9 a.m. For more information visit www.autoswalk.com.

Medina Lake, TX Saturdays in June: Flying L Ranch Chuck Wagon Dinner Enjoy BBQ, wagon rides, roping lessons, hat and pistol branding, archery, Old-Tyme photos, a cowboy stage show, gunslingers, and line dancing at the Flying L Ranch in Bandera, just 23 miles from the Medina Lake Preserve. Hours are 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Saturday evenings. For more information call (800) 292-5134.

JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

Spotlight | Walk the Trails with Us! Did you know that walking just 10,000 steps per day, (approximately 5 miles) is a great way to stay fit? Or that walking is one of the most popular forms of physical activity in America? Our Thousand Trails preserves offer fantastic walking experiences for walkers of all levels. From coastal paths to forest walks, to lakeside trails or scenic pathways, our trails are truly a walker’s paradise. And, thanks to our Walk the Trails program you can make great strides to get fit while enjoying the great outdoors, and get some really cool pins in the process. To get started in this program all you have to do is pick up a “Walk the Trails” mileage log from the Preserve Office or Ranger Station and get walking. Each day you will log the miles that you walked that day. You can also download and print a mileage log by visiting www.ThousandTrails. com/WalktheTrails. And there’s more than just fitness rewards with our Walk the Trails program! Once you have logged 50, 100, 150, 250, 500, 750 and 1000 miles, bring LAKE CONROE

A Bit About Some of Our Trails This is just a small listing. For more information about our trails, please visit ThousandTrails.com

California

Lake Minden offers a beautiful one and a quarter mile walk on the road that circles the lake, which some walk for exercise and others to experience the birds, waterfowl and wildlife in their natural habitat. Photo opportunities for sunsets, moonrises, as well the changing seasons are another plus to this picturesque walk. 20

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your card to any Preserve Office or Welcome Center to redeem your mileage pin reward! (Hikers can expect pins to be available at the preserves at the end of June.) Miles logged are cumulative and may be carried over from preserve to preserve. There’s no official “mileage checker” so this program is all on the honor system. Many of our members have been enjoying our trails for years so if you have walked a lot of miles or found a perfect trail, we would love to hear about it. You can share your trails stories with us at TBEditor@equitylifestyle.com or by sending a note to Walk the Trails, c/o TrailBlazer, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606. Photos are welcome too – please share them with us at TBphotos@equitylifestyle.com. And don’t forget to join us on our Thousand Trails FaceBook Page! So the next time you visit a Thousand Trails property, remember to join in the Walk the Trails program and start walking towards a healthier future, with some great views thrown in!

GATEWAY TO CAPE COD

The trail at Ponderosa is exactly one mile long and meanders along the beautiful South Fork of the American River where walkers can watch whitewater rafters and kayakers paddle by. The trail at Wilderness Lakes is 1.2 miles long along the paved perimeter of the preserve, providing a pleasant, level and easy walk.

Massachusetts

At Gateway to Cape Cod, the trail is one mile total, if you include the

LEAVENWORTH

pond spur that leads to the outer roads of the preserve. One of the best features is the pond spur which brings the walker to the dock where they can often catch a glimpse of the resident swan and duck families or the occasional otter frolicking. New Jersey A one mile walk around the 12-acre lake is what you’ll find when you hit the trail at Lake and Shore. The trail is a favorite for walkers, hikers and bikers alike and come October, it sets the sight for the preserve’s annual Haunted Hayride.

PACIFIC CITY

Just follow these simple steps to

Walk the Trails! 1. Pick up a mileage log from the preserve office/ranger station or you can print a mileage log by visiting www.ThousandTrails.com/ WalktheTrails 2. Walk the trail 3. Log your walk on your mileage card 4. Reap the rewards! MILEAGE LOG

Name: Preserve

North Carolina

Lake Gaston has a one mile trail onsite, known for great sunset photo ops from the pier facing beautiful Lake Gaston.

Oregon

The trails route at Pacific City, 2.5 miles in total, loops through the preserve and offers excellent photo opportunities along the way thanks to ocean views and wildlife sightings.

Texas

Bay Landing’s trail is five miles

Name

# of Miles

Date:

Staff Sign

ature

Prize Given

Name: Preserve

Name

#o Mile

MILcircles EAGE LO The trail the main loop, ballpark long and loops throughout Nthe ame: G Date: and “C” section. entire preserve so walkers find MILEAGE # of Preserve Name: Name Miles Prize Staff Sign themselves starting and stopping Dat ature Given # of Preserve Name at the same point. Washington Miles Staf The trail system at Leavenworth is It’s a two mile trail at Lake Conroe, quite extensive with six beautiful, starting at the Activity Center, forested miles of trails in an through C Section, down to the lake undeveloped portion of the preserve. and back, back past the AC, through Some trails border streams and others D Section and back to start. Sounds have beautiful mountaintop views like fun, right? of the entire Chiwawa River Valley. All trails are on the property and are A favorite part of the two mile trail at worth the walk! Lake Tawakoni trail is the Mo Stark Trail through the woods at“H”section.

JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

t s e B e h t g n i s o o Ch

n a i i a aw

n o i t a c a V r u o Y r o sland f

The most amazing fact you’ll find is how close and reasonably priced Hawaii really is! The major islands are Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Maui, and Hawaii’s Big Island. Each island has its own identity and features that make it unique. Year-round, the average water temperature is 74 degrees.

co-exist in perfect harmony. Diamond Head, a mountainous volcanic crater, is a famous and easily recognizable landmark. Molokai is the island most often associated with peace and tranquility. Molokai is home to many of the ecological and adventure-oriented activities found in Hawaii. The eastern side of the island is very green and tropical, and the western side offers dry grasslands and beaches. To the north, tall sea cliffs rising more than 3,500 feet above sea level look out over the ocean and create Hawaii’s tallest waterfall. The main “urban” area is Kaunakakai, a town with no traffic lights.

Kauai is the oldest island of the islands. The rugged coast boasts more miles of beach and hiking trails than all the other islands. This is the island that has served as a backdrop to many films, including Jurassic Park. Its primitive, tropical beauty evokes the Garden of Eden - it is an island of mountains and valleys, waterfalls and beautiful beaches. This well-rounded destination appeals to commercial shoppers, Maui has something for fine diners, and eco-tourists alike. everyone. The dormant Haleakala volcano Oahu is the most commercial and Kahalawai volcano watch of the islands, and home to over Hawaii’s second largest island Waikiki and Honolulu. and shape the island’s mountains, But do not let that fool you: Oahu valleys and waterfalls. Visitors mesmerizes visitors with rainforests, to Maui are surprised by how mountains, valleys, and spectacular undeveloped most of the island ocean waves. Any island newcomer feels, and yet how much it offers should rent a car and drive around in terms of dining, resorts and the island. They will be awed by nightlife. Maui is also the whale how undeveloped and quaint watching center for the islands. much of the island remains. Waikiki Another attraction is the village is famous around the world, it is a of Lahaina, full of great shops and place where urban culture and the restaurants. distinct Polynesian flavor of Hawaii 22

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The Big Island (Hawaii) is the home to the Kilauea volcano. This currently erupting volcano is the most active volcano in the world, creating approximately 40 new acres of island every year. The Big Island is as large as all of the other islands combined, with more than 260 miles of coast. During the winter, it can actually snow on the island’s tallest mountain, Mauna Kea, and you can snow ski on its 13,796 foot altitudes, weather permitting. The Kona-Kohala Coast on the Big Island hosts several luxury resorts and golf facilities along with its white-sand beaches. Here, too, is the town of Hilo, displaying its tropical, quintessential Hawaiian culture.

Which island suits you? Preferred Access can plan your Hawaii getaway today at (800) 281-4977.

CIRCLE NO. 101 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

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Check here each month to see what’s new at the preserves and what’s in the works.

Swainton, NJ A Big Splash! Guests will enjoy the updated pool deck that’s in the works and slated to be furnished with a new assortment of pool furniture. The new Splash Pad, that will replace the toddler pool, will be guaranteed fun for all ages! Beachy Fun! An expanded beach area just means more fun for the whole family. Playground Playtime! Conveniently located near the pool area, the new playground will provide hours of enjoyment for the kids. Welcome Back! An expanded entry road is in the works along with road resurfacing.

Note: The scope of these projects is subject to change. 24

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Gloucester, VA

CHESAPEAKE BAY

SEA PINES

A new look will greet you this summer at three of our preserves in the east. Everyone in the Pool! Updates to our two pools are in the works and include a tanning ledge (replacing the adult deep end), new lighting and new deck areas furnished with sleek new furniture. Get your Pickleball On! Pickleball has become quite popular with our guests so we are updating our courts to include new nets and resurfacing, as well as new lighting so you can play into the evening. Up for a little basketball? Enjoy the updated nets and resurfaced courts during your next game of hoops! Mini-golf anyone? Take on the challenge of this fun for the whole family game and enjoy the remodeled mini-golf course.

NEW POOL FURNITURE *Photos are representative of some the planned upgrades at Lake and Shore.

Lake & Shore

NEW PLAYGROUND

UPDATED MINI-GOLF

OCEAN VIEW, NJ Welcome Back! New signage is scheduled to be installed to welcome all back after a long winter. Also, updates are being made to our Welcome Center that will provide all with a refreshing new look. Watch for new flooring, lighting, counter and interior doors as well as updates to the restrooms. Beachy fun! The addition of new beach sand will not only double the size of the existing lakeside beach but will provide additional lounge space and more room for lakeside recreational activities.

On Par! Come play a round or two on the mini-golf course that is scheduled for new carpet as well as an updated look. Pool Fun! With an expanded pool deck in the works, as well as new furniture and new fencing, the pool will be the place to be this summer. Adding to the pool fun is the new pavilion that will offer shade as well as a place to mingle with friends and family.

Playground Playtime! The new playground that will be installed near the beach will provide plenty of fun for the kids.

Note: The scope of this project is subject to change. JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

Barnacle Billy’s - Ogunquit, ME

Cape Nedick “Nebble” Lighthouse - York, ME

I Knew I Was a

TrailBlazer

his month, TrailBlazer would like to introduce you to Brian White, a northeastern camper who has been hooked on the outdoor lifestyle for 50 years. The way he realized he was a true TrailBlazer shows that he’s beyond doubt worthy of the title.

TB: How long have you been camping and RVing? Who introduced you to it? Tell us how it all began! BW: When I was about six years old my father came home with a 1960 Cox pop up. That summer we went to White Lake State Park in Ossipee, New Hampshire. I’ve been hooked ever since going on 50 years. TB: How did you first hear about Thousand Trails? BW: A friend of mine was moving and wanted to transfer his Outdoor World membership. We took a ride to Sturbridge in the middle of winter. There were people camping! The indoor pool and hot tub had me sold in the first few minutes. The lodge, the management, and the grounds all sealed the deal. TB: What is one of your fondest camping memories? How about one of your fondest TT memories? BW: One of my greatest memories is sitting around the campfire watching my father tell stories to my 26

JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

kids. It was a great moment and we were all happy and together. My fondest TT memory was at Timothy Lake. We rolled in under heavy fog and darkness. I got up in the morning and saw a bald eagle soaring overhead, a dozen whitetailed deer grazing in the field and the Delaware River off in the distance dressed in a vapor cloud that hovered over it. TB: Any funny camping/RVing stories? BW: We were camping with a young married couple at Moody Beach. They had borrowed an old pop up camper. As they were settling in for bed, the camper began to tip to one side. Suddenly the wife emerged from the bunk end and fell into the dirt below. She was wearing a nightie and appeared to be shocked and just sat there a minute in the dust. When she noticed we were all still up and watching she ran to the door to get back in. The door was locked! She banged on the door and was finally let back in. The next day we told them about jack stands and how to secure the bunk ends. TB: What type of camper are you/what equipment do you use? What do you prefer and why? (ex: fifth wheel, RV, tent, cabins, etc.) BW: I started with a two man tent and now have a motorhome. I love the RV. Number one because it is so fun to drive and is great for day use. It

also doubles as a guest house during the holidays when we have family in from out of town. I also enjoy the strength and stability of it. The two AC units, stereo, DVD, CD, flat screen TV, central vac, queen bed and endless storage don’t hurt either.

Beach Plum Farm, ME

TB: Where have you gone that you wouldn’t have otherwise, if it hadn’t been for your Thousand Trails membership? BW: You name it: Cape May, Hershey, Sturbridge, Moody Beach, Gateway to Cape Cod. Anywhere there is a Thousand Trails location that I have been to, I would never have found or even heard about without TT. The TT campground directory serves a vacation planner around these parts. TB: What is your favorite part about the outdoor lifestyle? BW: My favorite part is friends and fire. The campfire or “caveman TV” as we like to call it is the centerpiece of our camping. I love everything about it from the smell of it when you first enter the park to a dozen points of light at night looking over the campground. There is nothing like the feeling of arriving late and finding one of your fellow campers already has a fire going to welcome you. TB: Can you finish this sentence? I knew I was a TrailBlazer when...

In the surf in Maine

BW: I looked out from the indoor pool area and saw snow falling in a flurry over my two man tent and had no problem at all with it. TB: Feel free to share any other camping/RVing stories here. BW: We were camping at Sturbridge and after a long day of touring and shopping we returned to camp for some dinner. Along the way, one of the girls picked up some artisan relish. As usual, I had grill duty and I served up the first few dogs topped with mustard and relish. As I continued cooking, I noticed a little commotion coming from the table but the music was loud and the beer was cold so I kept to the task at hand. Soon the commotion got so loud that it grabbed my attention. I turned around to see three of the guys spitting out their food gasping for air with red eyes. The relish was a habanero/jalapeno relish that went by the name of Jack Flash Volcano Relish. It even had a warning on it: A dab will do you! I had heaped it on like pickle relish for them thinking it was just plain relish.

Ogunquit River, ME JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

Gear up for summer with Thousand Trails Gear. Visit ThousandTrailsGear.com to check out items marked 30% off like sweatshirts and fleeces. Also, check out all of our new arrivals!

Fleeces and Sweatshirts 30% Off

Portable Mini Speaker

Ear Buds Pop-Up Camping Cooler

Camping Chair

ThousandTrailsGear.com 28

JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

Technology Simplified – Bigger and BeTTer

“WOW! The perfect name for this amazing computer. Everything is so easy to use at the touch of my fingertips.

– Carol K., Benbrook, TX

NEW

Now comes with... Larger 22-inch hi-resolution screen – easier to see 16% more viewing area Simple navigation – so you never get lost ®

Intel processor – lightning fast Computer is in the monitor – No bulky tower Advanced audio, Better speaker configuration – easier to hear Text to Speech translation – it can even read your emails to you! U.S. Based Customer Service

FREE

Automatic Software Updates

“I’ll never forget when my family got our first television. We were the first on our block to have one, and all my friends knew about it. They’d show up at my house with a friend, and next thing you knew we were crowded around the set, amazed at what we were seeing. A few weeks ago, I got my first computer– one that’s designed for people my age.

Pretty soon, my friends found out I was “surfing” the Internet, getting emails and pictures from my grandchildren, even playing games and purchasing movie tickets online. Before I knew it, there we were, crowded around a screen in amazement. Once again, I’m the envy of all my friends.” Whether you have never used a computer, or have tried one and found it too complicated… the WOW is for you. From the moment you open the box, you’ll see the difference. The components are all connected, all you do is plug it into an outlet and your high-speed Internet connection. Then you’ll see the screen – it’s now 22 inches. This is a completely new operating system, without the cluttered look of the normal computer screen. The “buttons” on the screen are easy to see and easy to understand. All you do is touch one of them, from the Web or Email or Calender or Games- you name it… and a new screen opens up. It’s so easy to use, you won’t have to ask your children or grandchildren for help. Don’t wait another minute… join the fun and call today! It’s nearly impossible CIRCLE NO. 129 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

to describe the difference in this computeryou have to try it for yourself. We’re so sure it will literally change your life that we are offering it to you with our exclusive 30-day home trial. Our knowledgeable product experts are standing by to answer any of your questions. There are no obligations and the call is toll-free, so why wait? Call now! • Send & Receive Emails • Have video chats with family and friends • Surf the Internet: Get current weather and news • Play games on line: Hundreds to choose from!

Call now toll free and find out how you can get the new WOW! Computer. Mention promotional code 58376 for special introductory pricing.

80993

WOW! The perfect name for this amazing computer. I have been using it for about a month and thoroughly enjoy the speed and ease in which I am able to download pictures from my camera and share them with family and friends via email. Everything is so easy to use at the touch of my fingertips. To be able to chat with and see my grandchildren is as though they are here with me. I haven’t begun to explore all the benefits of this computer. It has opened up a whole new world for me. I love it, love it, love it! – Carol K., Benbrook, TX

Tracing the Natchez Parkway History from Big Buck Resort

The Appian Way. The Silk Route. The Oregon Trail. Route 66. All are famous roads throughout history. As an RV enthusiast, you are certainly aware of the allure of the open highway. If you are traveling in the southern U.S., and you have a sense of the history of mobility, then you must experience the Natchez Trace Parkway, which follows a 444-mile path used for centuries from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee, that links the Cumberland, Tennessee and Mississippi rivers.

deck with views of the lake, and of course, free Wi-Fi. All this comes at RPI’s typically reduced rates, creating an economical way to enjoy the adventure and charm of the road, and a trip to produce fond memories and good times for your family.

The journey along the Natchez Trace Parkway is full of exceptional scenery and unmatched history and culture. But there is more in the Big Buck region to intrigue the lucky vacationer. Attractions in the area include Elvis Presley’s home, Graceland, a must for the rock and roll fan, Shiloh National Military Park If you’re an RPI member, with access to the finest RV for the Civil War buff, and Mud Island resorts in America, plan to visit Big Buck River Park for those looking to have a Resort in Hornsby, Tennessee. An hour Not an RPI Member? blast overlooking the Mississippi. And and a half east of Memphis, this lush Add RPI Basic for the nearby Natchez Trace State Park is a 212-acre getaway is a rustic delight. Big Only $79 legacy of FDR’s "New Deal.” Buck Resort is geared towards families or RPI Plus for $89 and outdoor enthusiasts with plenty of Call It all represents a sterling example room for your comfort. 1-800-635-8498 of what makes RPI so special – great for information locations, the best facilities and the For instance, Big Buck gives you access You must be a NACO, LTR finest staff members. In short, the finest to 1,200 wooded acres for seasonal or Mid-Atlantic member to qualify for this offer. RV reciprocal camping program in deer and turkey hunting, four-wheeling, North America. hiking, and more. On site you’ll find ranges for trap shooting, rifle/pistol targets and Visit www.bigbuckresorttn.com to learn more about archery. You can fish in a pair of ten-acre, deepthe resort. well-fed lakes. There’s also swimming, horseshoes, sand volleyball, a sandy playground next to a lake, To check out the extensive list of resorts available inflatables, including a rock climbing wall, 24-foot to you, and all the other benefits gained with RPI slide, and 60-foot obstacle course. We have a large membership, please call 1-800-456-7774. clubhouse with ping-pong, pool tables, board games, and TV viewing room with a big furnished 30

JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

Hand-cast and handpainted wall sculpture features the imagery of acclaimed artist Al Agnew

A Firs t-E Glow- ver i the-D nark A Native Americaninspired wall sculpture that glows in the dark In the spiritual traditions of Native American culture, the wolf is revered as The Pathfinder. To follow the sacred wolf’s example is to lead a life of wisdom, strength and devotion to family. Now the powerful influence of the wolf inspires a first-of-its-kind wall sculpture available for a limited time from The Bradford Exchange. Sculpted in the likeness of a ceremonial headdress, “Moonlit Majesty” is decorated with real feathers, hand-painted beadwork and Native American accents, and features the vision of two wolves basking in the glow of a full moon. For added mysticism, special pigments in the artwork absorb light by day, and glow magically by night! Exceptional value; satisfaction guaranteed “Moonlit Majesty” comes with a 365-day money-back guarantee and is issued in a limited edition. Act now to obtain it in two interestfree installments of $19.97* each, for a total of $39.95. Send no money now. Just return the Reservation Application today or you could miss out! RESERVATION APPLICATION

Shown much smaller than actual size of appr. 8" wide x 9¼" high. Includes a built-in hanging device for quick and safe display.

SEND NO MONEY NOW

9345 Milwaukee Avenue · Niles, IL 60714-1393

YES.

Please reserve the “Moonlit Majesty” replica headdress for me as described in this announcement. Limit: one per order. Please Respond Promptly Mrs. Mr. Ms. Name (Please Print Clearly)

Address

The nighttime view adds the mystique of the wolf to any decor.

www.bradfordexchange.com/moonlit

State

Zip

01-13292-001-E06911 *Plus $8.99 shipping and service. Limited-edition presentation restricted to 295 crafting days. Please allow 4-8 weeks after initial payment for shipment. Subject to product availability and order acceptance.

CIRCLE NO. 107 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

GLOBAL NOBLE

t was December 1959, Noble and Dean were entering Tanganyika Territory, East Africa, which was at that time a British Protectorate and home to several world famous game reserves, Amboseli, Tsavo, Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti. It was legendary land, still under control of the United Kingdom, but preparing for independence. Traveling on a road so rough that the second hand on Dean’s wristwatch vibrated right off, their first stop was Dar Es Salaam, the administrative capital of Tanganyika. “There were lots of people walking on both sides of the streets. Dean and I were searching for an ice cream parlor,” Noble recalls. “We asked several of the natives that were walking along the road where we could find one. We were finally pointed in the right direction and found one, operated by an Indian gentleman who had a monopoly on ice cream so the cost of the cone was the same as that of a 24-ounce beer!” “Dar is Tanganyika’s biggest port on the Indian Ocean and we found an attractive beach for a swim and to cool. The shower after our swim was a salt water shower so we never quite felt refreshed.” Noble said. “We also found a campground not far away that also had no fresh water – our hostess drove three miles each morning for fresh water. “ The next day, while Dean was out birding, Noble drove down to the port to see if they could afford to hop an Arab dhow from Dar Es Salaam to Zanzibar, a seven hour boat ride. He found they could, for a cost of one British pound, or $2.80. “I asked for an adventure ride to Zanzibar and the harbor master said he could accommodate my request,” recalls Noble. “He gave us a good deal, but I had no idea what kind of boat he’d be putting us in. We had a 7 p.m. departure time and Dean was nowhere to be found.” Dean returned around 7:10 p.m. and the pair hustled down to the harbor. The boat was the St. George, 43 feet long by 17 feet across the beam, captained by a man by the named Tamadawas from the Seychelles. “The boat was to carry coconut oil, soap and us, to Zanzibar,” said Noble. “No five star

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Tanganyikan officials at the border of Tanganyika and Nyasaland with the Roadrunner.

accommodations but we bunked in the captain’s quarters and departed at 8 p.m., traveling at a speed of seven knots so we arrived in Zanzibar at 3 a.m. after seven hours at sea.” Once they reached the harbor, Dean and Noble were greeted by the harbor police asking for their papers. “We had none. We had left our passports in the Jeep on the continent so an official accompanied me into town to buy two airline tickets for a flight that evening,” recalls Noble. “We had to leave as we had no visa. We had to be out of Zanzibar by midnight.” After a short, uneventful flight in a small British plane, the pair were back in Dar Es Salaam. The Jeep dealer in town was a generous entrepreneur and traded service in the Roadrunner for a story in the local paper. “I gave a story to Tony Hughes, a reporter for the Tanganyika Standard, along with pictures, enabling the Jeep dealer to tell the world that “he serviced an expedition form America,” said Noble. After the Jeep was serviced, Noble picked up Dean and they gave the reporter, Tony Hughes and his wife, a ride home. “We parked that night by the side of the road on a decent gravel surface,” said Noble. “The next day a chap who had seen our story in the newspaper stopped by to see the Jeep. His name was Dusty Rhodes, a co-owner of a safari company, East African Game Safaris, Inc. He invited us to an all-expense paid safari. All we had to do was return to Morogoro and buy a $6 small game license that entitled us to shoot 32 different game. How fortunate can a pair get?”

The date was December 11, 1959 and Noble and Dean would spend the next 19 days on safari, compliments of the owner and operators of the camp. “We had something to contribute as well,” said Noble. “We had Dean Fisher, an outdoorsman who knew more about the birds of the world, and Tanganyika in particular, than anyone. Dean was much welcomed. “ “During our first full day in camp, our safari included Dusty and his wife, Ricki; Clary Palmer-Wilson, native Nairobi and white hunter; Clary’s 13-year old son, Mike, Dean and me. We were off to get Ricki her treasured Cape Buffalo, as a trophy for their new home “, said Noble. It would be easy to remain at camp for the next 19 days. “The weather was almost perfect and we enjoyed the company of the guests. Young Mike Palmer had gifted me with a complete set of warthog tusks, and Clary had many stories to share,” said Noble. “Clary was an extremely cautious white hunter and thought the elephant was the most dangerous animal to stalk and kill because they are so unpredictable. In his opinion, they present the toughest challenge to the hunters of all African game. “ “For me to stay in shape, I did some walking. On one occasion, I walked about eight miles from camp into the settlement of Mikumi. This was bush country, not a tranquil national park,” recalls Noble. “I stumbled upon two elephants within 50 feet in thick bush. No man can outrun most four-legged African animals, and I did not try! But I surely did quietly soft shoe out of there, remembering what Clary had said about the unpredictability of elephants.”

“During one outing, Ricki got a warthog and we enjoyed that for dinner, along with hartebeest that another guest had shot,” recalls Noble. “After a while in camp, Dean had seen and properly identified all the birds in the area so he was ready for a new adventure. Dean was a good shot so we went looking for a zebra. We did not find one so Clary gave us a letter of introduction to Thorkild Anderson, a manager of a 5,000 acres sisal plant and assured us that Thorkild would find Dean a zebra.” Leaving camp, they drove into the town of Kilosa and were “adopted” by a Mrs. Wilson, who invited them to a private club. A British Cruiser, the HMS Gamia, was docked in Dar Es Salaam as they had sent a rugby team to Kilosa to play the district officers in a match. The team was one player short so they drafted Noble to play. “They gave me the rule book the night before the game,” said Noble. “So here are 15 blokes on each team, beating themselves up and down the field, with no equipment other than shorts and shoes. We won 16 to 3. It was a memorable afternoon. “ The afternoon’s events were followed by a black tie dinner – it was, after all, New Year’s Eve. “We sang Auld Lang Syne, which was followed by much kissing from the many women attending the evening’s festivities. What more could a couple of bachelors ask for? The next day we listened to the Rose Bowl, being played in Pasadena, some 10,000 miles away. We camped that night in Mrs. Wilson’s backyard and then we headed back to camp to check out.” They were off to the sisal plant and Thorkild Anderson, in search of the zebra!

An 18” gauge rail system hauling sisal, a major crop of Tanganyika.

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By Lynn & Cele Seldon Photos courtesy of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development

A LEISURELY LOOP AROUND THE VOLUNTEER STATE With so much to see and do, it’s not hard to volunteer for a loop around Tennessee. From music to history to varied oh-so-southern taste treats, The Volunteer State has something for everyone. Several logical stops from the northeast (the Bristol area) along I-81 and I-40 to the west (Memphis) and back again using US 64 to Chattanooga and the Great Smoky Mountains make a loop around the state easy and fun to pursue.

new Birthplace of Country Music Museum (opening August, 2014); Bristol Motor Speedway, home of NASCAR races and more; Kingsport’s Warriors’ Path State Park, with Darrell’s Dream Boundless Playground, and Bays Mountain Park; Jonesborough’s International Storytelling Center; Greenville’s Andrew Johnson National Historic Site; and plentiful fishing and more on Watauga Lake and South Holston Lake.

Of course, it’s hard not to get lyrical about the music scene in Tennessee. Just listing the first names of musicians with deep Tennessee roots gets those boots scootin’, starting with Elvis and moving on to the likes of Dolly, Loretta, Johnny, Tina, B.B., Justin (as in Memphis-born Justin Timberlake), and many, many more—including more recent Nashville residents like Taylor Swift, The Band Perry, The Black Keys, and Keith Urban.

Knoxville is next. Anchored by sprawling University of Tennessee, Knoxville features a vibrant downtown vibe, frequent live music at Preservation Pub on Historic Market Square, the Knoxville Museum of Art, and the helpful Knoxville Visitor’s Center, home base for The Blue Plate Special live radio show. The 300-acre Ijams Nature Center and all of Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness are hotspots for biking, canoeing, and more. Eat at Tupelo Honey on Market Square or tasty and picturesque Windows on the Park, which overlooks 1982’s World’s Fair Park and the iconic Knoxville Sunsphere tower.

Start Your Engines in the Northeast

Sitting in the northeast corner of the state, the Tri-Cities of Bristol, Kingsport, and Johnson City are a great place to start. Highlights here have to include Bristol’s 34

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On the way further west, the historic and charming little town of Rugby (with lots of historic buildings and great

dining at Harrow Road Café) is well worth the diversion north before continuing toward Nashville through the Upper Cumberland region. This pretty area also features the “Golf Capital of Tennessee” (Crossville), the historic Cumberland County Playhouse (also in Crossville), the official HQ of the “World’s Longest Yard Sale” (Jamestown), and the T.B. Sutton General Store (featuring a weekly live bluegrass show), other historic buildings, and much more in quaint Granville, just off I-40.

Noshing in Nashville

Next, you’ll want to plan for several days in Nashville, where music, history, nature, and more are all easily available. Among many possibilities, lyrical Nashville highlights have to include live music and a lively scene in downtown’s loud and neon-lit Honky Tonk Row; legendary Ryman Auditorium (“Mother Church of Country Music”); the renowned Country Music Hall of Fame; the new Johnny Cash Museum; the relocated Musicians Hall of Fame; historic RCA Studio B (where Elvis recorded 200-plus songs, along with many other stars); the Grand Ole Opry at Opryland; and so much more. West of Nashville proper, on US 100, the famed Loveless Barn is home to TV’s “Music City Roots” show.

Of course, there’s more to Nashville than music. Other options include the hilltop Greek Revival State Capitol building; Frist Center for the Visual Arts; the Parthenon in Centennial Park (it’s an art museum housed in a full-scale replica of the original in Athens); Cheekwood Botanical Garden & Museum of Art; Vanderbilt University; and historic Belle Meade Plantation (including a winery.) In addition, Nashville is a top “noshing” city thanks to dining and imbibing hotspots like Husk Nashville, The 404 Kitchen in The Gulch, Rolf & Daughters in Germantown, and speakeasy-like Patterson House near Vanderbilt University. The Nashville area is also the site of several Civil War battles. Buffs will want to head to Stones River National Battlefield and to several sites from the Battle of Franklin. Stones River National Battlefield JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

On to Memphis

It’s just 210 miles on I-40 from Nashville to Memphis, but there’s much to see along the way. First up and just off I-40, there’s Loretta Lynn’s Ranch in Hurricane Mills, with lots to see and do. After Parker’s Crossroads Battlefield, Jackson makes for an ideal stop right on I-40, thanks to the International Rock-A-Billy Hall of Fame and busy Casey Jones Village (including Brooks Shaw’s Old Country Store, with a popular restaurant). Also just off I-40 in Brownsville, the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center includes several excellent mini-museums, as well as Flagg Grove School (Tina Turner’s restored childhood school) and blues pioneer “Sleepy John” Estes’s tiny home. Another option is to head north of I-40 into the pretty northwest section of the state, with possible stops including Dickson’s Renaissance Center, Natchez Trace State Park, the Tennessee River Folklife Museum in Eva, the West Tennessee Regional Art Center in Humboldt, the Civil War’s Fort Pillow State Historic Park in Henning, and the new Discovery Park of America in Union City. Once in Memphis, there’s more music, history, and other possibilities. Of course, there’s blaring Beale Street and lots of clubs with live music. A block away, there’s the excellent Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. Then, there’s iconic Graceland, Elvis Presley’s long-time home. There’s also the recently renovated and highly regarded National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel, which is located in and near the former motel/hotel where Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated. Just these four sites mean visitors need at least two days and nights in Memphis, but other options might include the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, Sun Studio, the Mississippi River Museum, the Art Museum of the University of Memphis, Ducks Unlimited International Headquarters, Beale Street’s historic A. Schwab Trading Company, and many more Memphis possibilities.

Graceland - Home of Elvis Presley

Memphis also rivals Nashville when it comes to noshing. Among many tasty options, perennial dining favorites include downtown’s Charlie Vergo’s Rendezvous Charcoal Ribs (down an alley across from the historic Peabody Hotel and its famous marching ducks), The Majestic Grille (also near the Peabody on the trolley line), Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken near downtown, Central BBQ (convenient to the National Civil Rights Museum), and aptly-named Hog & Hominy over in East Memphis and across from acclaimed Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen (same ownership).

National Civil Rights Museum 36

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Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Peabody Hotel

Beale Street - Memphis JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

Heading Back East

The road back east gets off the interstate and uses US 64 to complete a loop back to eastern Tennessee’s Chattanooga and the Great Smoky Mountains. Early diversions might include the quaint town of Collierville to the south of US 64, as well as the National Bird Dog Museum, also to the south of US 64 in Grand Junction. Shiloh National Military Park is a short diversion from US 64. Part of the Mississippi Valley Campaign, the early-April two-day Battle of Shiloh in 1862 resulted in a large number of deaths and injuries. The nearby town of Corinth was a strategic rail junction and suffered its own battle and siege—and the resulting loss to the Chattanooga Choo-Choo

Confederate cause was huge. Shiloh National Military Park and the Corinth Civil War Interpretative Center are well worth exploration. Next, back on US 64 and the “Walking Tall” byway, Adamsville features the Buford Pusser Home & Museum. Pusser was a legendary McNairy County lawman who declared war on local moonshining and other vices in the mid-1960s. He was made even more famous in the feature film, “Walking Tall”, with Joe Don Baker playing Pusser. There was also a TV movie, a brief TV series, and a legendary run-in with Jimmy Buffett in 1974 that was highlighted in his later songs, “Presents to Send You” and “Semi-True Stories.” Savannah follows in less than miles, with downtown’s Tennessee River Museum, Pickwick Landing Dam, and Pickwick Landing State Park as top possibilities. Next, be on the lookout for where the fabled Natchez Trace Parkway crosses US 64 east of Waynesboro. Running 444 miles through Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee, the historic Natchez Trace Parkway is one of those classic North America drives well-suited for

RVers. Much like Route 66, the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Skyline Drive, the Pacific Coast Highway, the Alaska Highway, and many more iconic drives, the Natchez Trace Parkway beckons road trip lovers with stunning scenery (including colorful fall foliage), centuries of history, varied culture, an array of activities, friendly people, and much more. Back on US 64, David Crockett State Park and, then, the David Crockett Cabin & Museum in Lawrenceburg are both well worth a gander. Crockett was a celebrated 19th century frontiersman, folk hero, soldier, and politician. Just east of Fayetteville, head north on SR 50 to Lynchburg for a brief Tennessee history lesson. Lynchburg is the fabled home of the Jack Daniel’s Distillery, America’s oldest registered

Jack Daniel’s Distillery - Lynchburg

Natchez Trace Parkway 38

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distillery. Visitors can explore the whiskey-making process on a tour, as well as purchase varied whiskey options and more. The pretty little town of Lynchburg is also alluring, with great Jack Daniel’s souvenir shopping (everything from barrels to old bottles), a MoonPie store (MoonPies are from Chattanooga), and country-style dining at Miss Mary Bobo’s Boarding House.

Chattanooga & On to Dolly’s Smokies

Eastward-bound drivers will likely want to connect with I-24 to head into Chattanooga (US 64 becomes I-24 for this stretch.) Riverfront Chattanooga has become another Tennessee highlight for many Volunteer State visitors, thanks to a variety of things to do and see. The aptly nicknamed Scenic City has the Tennessee River running right through downtown and is surrounded by mountains. Highlights here might include the revitalized Riverfront area; the acclaimed Tennessee Aquarium (with new river otters in 2014); a MoonPie store (of course); the Hunter Museum of American Art; trolley tours; varied Chattanooga Choo Choo train excursions; river cruises onboard the Southern Belle Riverboat or the River Gorge Explorer; and Rock City (of “See Rock City” billboard fame), the Incline Railway, and pretty Ruby Falls, all just ten miles from downtown. Dining in downtown is also thriving, thanks to creative fare at bustling restaurants like Easy Bistro and Broad Street Grille in The Chattanoogan. The loop back to eastern Tennessee continues by taking US 411 toward Sevierville and then US 441 to the popular attractions of Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg. Cradled by the Great Smoky Mountains, these three towns have much to offer and deserve a stop of at least two days and nights.

Ruby Falls - Chattanooga

Titanic Pigeon Forge

Hiking in the Great Smokey Mountains

Casey Jones Village

Calhoun’s - Gatlinburg

Sevierville was the birthplace of Dolly Parton and she’s very proud of the statue the mountain town built there to honor her. Other draws here have to include busy Tanger Outlets and Wilderness at the Smokies, a familyoriented adventure center and water park resort for kids, grandkids, and kids at heart. Next, Pigeon Forge possibilities include varied shows and entertainment, shopping at The Old Mill and more, Dollywood’s Splash Country, and the excellent Titanic Pigeon Forge museum. Of course, Dollywood proper is a Pigeon Forge ‘must,’ with shows, shopping, lots of varied rides

(including the brand-new Fire Chaser roller coaster), and even Dolly Parton’s retired RV tour bus (parked outside the Chasing Rainbows museum). Visitors will also want to eat their fill at Mama’s Farmhouse, Huck Finn’s Catfish, and The Old Mill Restaurant. Last, but not least, get going to Gatlinburg for shopping, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Ober Gatlinburg’s four-season mountain activities, Davy Crockett’s Tennessee Whiskey, Old Smoky Tennessee Moonshine, Smoky Mountain Brewery, and more. While in town, eat at Parton’s (great sandwiches) or Calhoun’s (tasty barbecue).

Play Ball!

see!

Tennes in ee S o t e or M

Sevierville - Dolly Parton Statue

Great Smoky Mountains National Park proper to the south of Gatlinburg is well worth the short trip. Be sure to stop in at the Sugarlands Visitor Center, just south of Gatlinburg, for information about drives, hikes, and more. The drive continues by taking US 321 through Greenville (home of Andrew Johnson National Historic site) back to northeast Tennessee. Back near Bristol, Johnson City, Tennessee has been on the lips of many radio listeners lately, thanks to the lyrics of Darius Rucker’s hit remake of “Wagon Wheel.” It’s a fittingly lyrical end to a wheeling loop around The Volunteer State. 

The Volunteer State features the fourth-most Minor League Baseball teams in the nation, behind just California, Florida, and New York State. From east to west, the varied possibilities to see future stars in action includes: Bristol Sox (Chicago White Sox); Elizabethton Twins (Minnesota Twins); Johnson City Cardinals (St. Louis Cardinals); Kingsport Mets (New York Mets); Greenville Astros (Houston Astros); Tennessee Smokies (just off I-40 east of Knoxville, Chicago Cubs); Chattanooga Lookouts (Los Angeles Dodgers); Nashville Sounds (Milwaukee Brewers); Jackson Generals (Seattle Mariners); and the Memphis Redbirds (St. Louis Cardinals).

WANT TO BE A

LUCKY WINNER?

Thousand Trails is offering members the opportunity to win a

$1,000 American Express Gift Card

To earn entries into our monthly drawing simply pay your 2014 dues on time and camp at your favorite TT Preserve.

Lucky winners, Buddy and Pat Bush from Pacific City, OR were camping at Pacific City when they were presented with a $1,000 gift card. Will you be pictured here next month? Buddy (left) and Pat (right) are pictured here with Pacific City’s Resort Manager Ginny Therrien.

Get Out and

Ca mp

When you pay your annual dues for 2014 in full, you will be entered into our monthly drawing for a $1,000 American Express gift card. There will be one drawing/one winner each month from January through December 2014. In addition, once you pay your dues in full, each time you camp at a Thousand Trails Preserve in 2014, 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 preserve. 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, 2014. This promotion is sponsored by MHC Thousand Trails Limited Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606. JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

Biltmore Estate

A Taste of ~ ~

AshevillE By Lynn & Cele Seldon

There may be no hotter destination in the Southeast U.S. than the hip and cool North Carolina mountain town of Asheville. Whether it’s heading to famed Biltmore, strolling and shopping in bustling downtown and beyond, foraging for food at one of many farmers markets, dining in acclaimed and varied restaurants, drinking in the vibe (and libations) at lots of breweries, distilleries, and cideries, enjoying festivals and events, or heading out on the Blue Ridge Parkway, it’s easy to take a tasty bite of Asheville. Asheville’s good life ethos goes way beyond locavore restaurant menus and beer lists. From the still-grand Biltmore to the great outdoors and so much more, visitors quickly learn to eat and live like locals. 42

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Biltmore-bound George Washington Vanderbilt III

Of course, you simply can’t visit Asheville without heading to Biltmore, the sprawling Vanderbilt home and estate, named a National Historic Landmark in 1963. The house and grounds tours are well worth it, but so are the activities and visits to the winery and one or more restaurants. Sprawling 8,000-acre Biltmore Estate was the late-19th century vision of George Washington Vanderbilt III. Designed by Richard Morris Hunt and completed in 1895, America’s largest home is a 250-room French Renaissance-style chateau and it still exhibits the Vanderbilt family’s original collection of furnishings, art, and antiques. Biltmore features famed gardens designed by Frederick Law Olmstead, the father of American landscape architecture. Visitors today can also now enjoy Antler Hill Village (including the award-winning Winery and Antler Hill Farm), the four-star Inn on Biltmore Estate, the Equestrian Center; and numerous restaurants. A Biltmore House visit features a self-guided tour through three floors and the large basement. Every room on the tour has been carefully conserved by Biltmore’s Museum Services staff, with displays of the Vanderbilt’s original artwork collection and furniture illustrating life at Biltmore as it was during the time when George and Edith Vanderbilt lived in the house with their only child, Cornelia. During the tour, visitors will also enjoy many panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains through the house’s large windows. The audio tour is highly recommended, in that it reveals fascinating details about the Vanderbilt family, their guests, and life on the estate. A guest host is posted in each of the main rooms, answering questions and providing further insight into the lives and times of the Vanderbilts. Biltmore House is still owned by George Vanderbilt’s descendants—his great grandson, William “Bill” A.V. Cecil, Jr., is the current CEO of The Biltmore Company. Beyond the house, more than 80 acres of varied gardens beckon. The formal Italian Garden offers a quiet place to relax, thanks to classic statuary and three symmetrical reflecting pools. The historic Rose Garden is typically filled with multiple varieties of roses, including some of the same types that were first grown in the garden during Vanderbilt’s days. The Shrub Garden is great for a stroll along secluded paths, while the four-acre Walled Garden features a symmetrical design and seasonal color. Finally, the soaring Conservatory, designed by Hunt, is a Biltmore showcase filled with ferns, orchids, and tropical palms. The lower level houses A Gardener’s Place—a popular gift shop. Beyond the formal gardens and the Conservatory, Biltmore features more than 20 miles of biking, walking and hiking paths.

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Antler Hill Village

Next, Antler Hill Village awaits. Estate entry also includes the exhibit “The Vanderbilts at Home and Abroad” at The Biltmore Legacy in Antler Hill Village. The exhibition begins with George Vanderbilt’s background and family tree, including excerpts from his diary, family photos, and stories of his world travels as a young man. A variety of topics are covered, like the discovery that the Vanderbilts were originally scheduled to sail on the Titanic. This also includes a model of the ship, original menus, and archival images from the Titanic Museum Attraction in nearby Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. There’s also an early HarleyDavidson motorcycle on loan from Maggie Valley’s Wheels Through Time, a vintage motorcycle museum just 35 miles from Asheville. Other highlights in Antler Hill Village include farm exhibits and animals at the Farm, live seasonal entertainment at the Village Green, and great shopping at The Mercantile (Appalachian crafts, dry goods, old-fashioned candy, and more) and Traditions (decorative home accents and works from local artisans). Dedicated shoppers will also want to head to other Asheville options like downtown’s Grove Arcade, the River Arts District, and Grovewood Gallery out at The Omni Grove Park Inn. Antler Hill Village also features the Winery, where visitors can take a tour, enjoy complimentary samples of Biltmore’s tasty wines, and purchase wines and other culinary treats. Part of a working 94-acre vineyard operation, other wine programs and sparkling wine samples are available at an 44

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additional cost. The new “Vine to Wine” tour and popular “Biltmore Bubbles” tour are both highly recommended. The Winery was once home to the original Biltmore Dairy and also features Mrs. Vanderbilt’s rare 1913 StevensDuryea Model C-Six seven passenger touring car—one of only ten known to exist in the world. The Vanderbilts were early fans of car travel. There’s still even more beyond the House, the gardens, and Antler Hill Village. The possibilities include Orvisendorsed fly-fishing programs; sporting clays; the Land Rover Experience Driving School; guided Segway tours; bike rentals; carriage rides; horseback rides; river float trips; and two new activities, stand-up paddle boarding and archery. Drawing from Asheville’s thriving farm-to-table scene and George Vanderbilt’s love of entertaining, Biltmore is home to a variety of restaurants. Each venue has its own personality shaped by an executive chef and historic surroundings. Menus change seasonally and are influenced by fresh offerings from the estate’s production garden and local farms. The Bistro is located next to Biltmore Winery and features a taste of Europe for lunch and dinner, with tables surrounding an open kitchen cranking out handmade pastas, wood-fired seasonal pizzas, and more. Also in Antler Hill Village, Cedric’s Tavern is a British-style pub with hearty pub grub like fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, and housemade pickles on every table. Next, Deerpark Restaurant

is situated in a converted dairy barn and features a buffet of southern-style favorites and Appalachian specialties. Stable Café is another option and it’s conveniently located next to Biltmore House in what was originally the estate’s horse stable. The airy restaurant features booths situated in one-time stalls, with a menu of rotisserie chicken, smoked pork, estate-raised Angus beef, and house-made sausages. Wood harvested on the estate is used for smoking the meats. The Dining Room is Biltmore’s most upscale option and it’s well worth the splurge. Located in the elegant Inn on Biltmore Estate, the chefs here create gourmet meals using frequent deliveries from the estate’s farm operations— including lots of vegetables, beef, lamb, and more. Of course, many dishes pair perfectly with Biltmore wines.

by the founders of beloved French Broad Chocolate Lounge, a variety of food- and beer-focused tours, artisan hooch from the nation’s first female craft moonshine distiller, being named “Beer City USA” several times, and a long-standing run as America’s most visited winery (Biltmore). Given all of this, many new and veteran visitors plan their Asheville visit around where they’ll head for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a wide array of options for all three meals during a short or multiday stay. Open since 2001 and open bright and early every weekday at half past seven (9 a.m. on weekends), Early Girl Eatery is the place to head on any Asheville morning— as well as lunch and supper (you’re in the South, after all). “I love watching

The Foodtopian culture pervades the eating life in Asheville for both residents and visitors who insist on local and fresh cuisine that offers an inventive take on regional specialties and indigenous foods of Southern Appalachia.

Foodtopia

The marketing folks in Asheville call it ‘Foodtopia’ for good reason. Though the term ‘farm to table’ has been overused of late, Asheville has been a farm to fork kind of town for decades—with creative chefs working with local farmers to serve up some seriously tasty food to locals and lucky visitors alike. The Foodtopian culture pervades the eating life in Asheville for both residents and visitors who insist on local and fresh cuisine that offers an inventive take on regional specialties and indigenous foods of Southern Appalachia. What has resulted for this city of 80,000 or so is a restaurant renaissance that started in the mid- to late-1990s and served as one of the catalysts for the revitalization of downtown Asheville and beyond. Today, the movement has continued, with recent developments including elBulli alumna Katie Button choosing Asheville as the home of her first restaurant (Curate bar de tapas), tasty new ‘bean to bar’ chocolate from a chocolate factory started

tourists and locals begin a conversation in our dining room and finding laughter and common ground over a plate of local eggs, Sunburst trout, and Boonville Mill grits,” says Early Girl co-founder and -owner Julie Stehling. Julie runs the popular Wall Street restaurant with husband and chef John. Though their from-scratch biscuits are legendary, Julie and John also recommend one of the fresh offerings from Home Free Bagels found elsewhere in town—Home Free employs Asheville’s homeless to bake tasty bagels and more for other beloved Asheville hangouts like Malaprops Bookstore-Café. Along with Early Girl and Curate (order Chef Button’s tasting menu— JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

trust us), the long list of restaurants to consider during (all run by restaurateur Hector Diaz); VegHeads Vegetarian a visit has to include Rhubarb (chef John Fleer’s ode to Drivethru (possibly the world’s first vegetarian drivefresh Appalachian southern fare); Chestnut (from the through restaurant); Plant (a vegan hotspot opened by Corner Kitchen folks); Seven Sows Bourbon & Larder a former Laughing Seed chef); and Loretta’s Café or (think pork, bourbon, and more); The Admiral (off-the- Rosetta’s Kitchen next door (two other veggie-focused beaten-path and so worth it); The Market Place (downtown favorites); and several locavore-leaning choices at The farm to table dining since 1979); Laughing Seed Café (a Omni Grove Park Inn. vegetarian and vegan mainstay that meateaters also love); Chai Pani (fun Indian Given all of these entrees (and In addition, Katie But‘street food’); classic Corner Kitchen ton and her el Bulli dessert too), it’s easy to see and the Grand Bohemian Hotel’s Red alum husband, renowned why white-hot Asheville is most front-of-house and cockStag, both in bustling Biltmore Village; Sunny Point Café (all-day and –night definitely a foodie utopia for tail expert Felix Meana, breakfasts); Salsas, Modesto, and Chorizo have recently opened locals and visitors alike. Nightbell. It’s a food-forward nightclub concept with creative cocktails and tapas-style dining.

It’s time to take a bite.

For dessert, the various truffles are worth the trip to aforementioned French Broad Chocolate Lounge. The Hop Ice Cream Café has people- and dog-friendly (really) ice cream options and Short Street Cakes features delectable traditional and vegan cupcakes. From an Asheville-area Farm to Your RV’s Table, Asheville also has a plethora of tailgate farmers markets, thanks to 46

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more than a dozen active farmers markets that cater to home cooks and 250+ independent restaurants. Many chefs—and visitors who wisely bring coolers—take advantage of the teeming tailgate markets, which have deep roots throughout the Asheville area. Some top possibilities for foraging at farmers markets include Montford Farmers Market (conveniently located in the Asheville Visitor Center parking lot); French Broad Tailgate Market; various Greenlife tailgate markets; North Asheville Tailgate Market; Asheville City Market; WNC Farmers Market; and several more. Newly opened Katuah Market in bustling Biltmore Village is another great marketing option, with healthy fare and lots of great local beers. Thanks to world-class microbreweries belying the city’s size (they now have more than a 12-pack of them), Asheville has more recently become known as ‘Brewtopia’ as well.

Brewtopia

Asheville’s Brewtopia recommendations from locals inthe-know include Asheville Brews Cruise (lots of varied options for brewery visits and tastings with someone else doing the driving); Bruisin’ Ales (this beer-only retail store has a selection of 900+ beers—including dozens from Asheville brewers); Lexington Ave. Brewery (good beer, creative pub grub, and live music); Pisgah Brewing Company (the Asheville area’s only 100% organic brewery, with beers found throughout town and at their Black Mountain “Tap Room”); Wedge Brewing Co. (the nightly and weekend scene here is oh-so-Asheville); Asheville Brewing Company (and perfect pizza pairing); Jack of the Wood (from the owners of Laughing Seed Café, their Green Man Ales pair perfectly with their hemp nut burger); and beloved Highland Brewing Company. The success of local breweries has drawn the attention of national breweries as well. New Belgium and Sierra Nevada are opening East Coast locations in the area. For those who want to drink in even more of what Asheville has on tap, the city is also home to three cideries—Noble Hard Cider, Urban Orchard Cider Co., and Black Mountain Cider Works. In addition, there are now two sake makers and spirited Asheville Distilling Co. spirits. Plus, the craft cocktail scene is bigger and better than ever as well at several bars and restaurants. All Photo Credits: The Biltmore Company

Get Outside

Good food, wine, and beer don’t come calorie-free—even in Foodtopia, so locals and visitors love the great outdoors and enjoy nearby activities like hiking (in the Great Smoky Mountains), biking, hiking, waterfalls, and more (along and near the Blue Ridge Parkway), mild to wild rafting, kayaking, and fly fishing on the French Broad River, and breezing through the trees with Asheville Zipline Canopy Adventures at their near-downtown location. The Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center (Milepost 384, just eight miles east of downtown) is a great place to start outdoors adventures up on the fabled road. Shoppers will also want to head to the nearby Folk Art Center. Among many options for waterfall watchers, Looking Glass Falls, Graveyard Fields, and fun Sliding Rock. 

Time Your Asheville Visit It’s not surprising that social locals like to celebrate and there’s a full calendar of festivals and events that visitors can also enjoy. The year-round possibilities include: January • Winter Warmer Beer Festival • Asheville Restaurant Week March to May • Biltmore Blooms, A Festival of Flowers April • Moogfest (Celebrating the legacy of local Bob Moog, the inventor of the electronic synthesizer.) May • Mountain Sports Festival • Asheville Beer Week June and November • River Arts District Studio Strolls July and October • Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands August • Mountain Dance & Folk Festival • Asheville Food & Wine Festival November to December • Christmas at Biltmore & Candlelight Christmas Evenings • National Gingerbread House Competition at The Omni Grove Park Inn

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A wolf that helps children make sound decisions along with a squirrel who teaches responsibility. A hawk who imparts the importance of safety while camping. An energy-conscious dragonfly and a recycling bear.

habitats, as well as respecting other campers and the environment.

“Club Blazer is unique to Thousand Trails and to our goal of providing family-oriented recreational programming that is both fun and Who is this cast of characters? It’s the Trail Team, educational,” said long-time member Peggy part of the wonderful Club Blazer program that Boone. “We focus on creating lifetime memory will have a renewed presence at Thousand Trails making experiences that transcend generations. campgrounds this summer. Club Blazer was designed with our children in mind, but I am confident every age group will The program was designed to teach children enjoy the programs and activities. (although Moms and Dads love it too!) about being a smart and conscientious camper while As the program begins its rollout this summer also appreciating the environment. season, several preserves will have a full complement of Club Blazer activities while others The Trail Team of characters represents the are still in the works. Also, new this summer, values and goals of Thousand Trails as they young campers can receive a 12-page illustrated relate to making wise choices while still having activity booklet that is chock full of puzzles, a great camping experience. The lessons taught games and most important, tips about being include being safe while having fun, following a safe and environmentally conscious camper! preserve rules, being energy conscious, learning to recycling, learning about wildlife and their

JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

Photo Courtesy of Tennessee Department of Tourist Development

Explore More of Tennessee

Exploring Tennessee with Microsoft Streets & Trips 2013 June is the perfect time to go on a Tennessee driving adventure. Known for great music and an exciting culinary scene, it’s the ideal destination to enjoy with your family. Before you hit the road, read on to see how Microsoft Streets & Trips 2013 can help plan your perfect trip!

Proper Maintenance is Key A quick once-over of your vehicle will save you the headache of getting stuck on the side of the road in the middle of nowhere. Before you leave, be sure to check the fluids and make sure the air pressure in your tires is at the recommended levels. Nothing can delay your travel plans or cause stress faster than mechanical problems.

Plan Your Journey in Advance Lessen your stress on the drive by knowing where you’re going. Microsoft Streets & Trips 2013 can help you map out your route in advance. You can plot your course, determine your travel time and estimate your fuel expenses before you hit the road. You can also search your route to discover points of interest, tailoring your trip with visits to attractions such as Graceland, the Nashville Zoo or Knoxville Museum of Art.

Preparation is Essential Make a list and check it twice because preparation is crucial while on the road. Stocking up for the trip in advance will help you maintain a healthy and consistent diet, while steering away from unnecessary impromptu purchases. Purchase groceries at your local supermarket to avoid stopping for fast food. Prior to leaving, make sure your car’s emergency kit is stocked and you have plenty of water. Learn More Whether it’s an epic vacation or just an ambitious day trip, Microsoft Streets & Trips 2013 makes planning easy and fun. Streets & Trips sells for an estimated retail price of $39.95 (actual retail price may vary). Download your copy or a free trial today at www.microsoft.com/streets. Look for Streets & Trips on Facebook to join the conversation online. We’d love to hear about your adventures!

CIRCLE NO. 169 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

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CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Across 1 Fellow 4 Taro 8 Foot (suf.) 12 N.Z. fish 13 Black 14 Great Lake 15 Bachelor of Fine Arts (abbr.) 16 Medal (2 words) 18 Prison: Brit. 20 Ceremonial entrance 21 Belt 23 Palm starch 25 Indian camel 26 Vast 27 Palestine Liberation Organ. (abbr.) 30 Master of Business Administration (abbr.) 31 Cheek bone 32 Kind (Fr.) 33 Ten decibels 34 Variation (pref.) 35 Ice 36 Scientific name (suf.) 37 Aquarium fish 38 Christmas song 40 Egypt. evil god 41 Saga (2 words) 44 Belonging to (suf.) 47 Silver-iron ore 48 Javanese poison tree 49 Monkey 50 Indo-Chin. people 51 Man’s name: abbr. 52 Talk

Answers on page 64

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Page

DOWN 1 Apronlike cloth 2 Television band abbr. 3 Bias 4 Anglo-Saxon assembly 5 Son of Adam 6 Botanical (abbr.) 7 Feminine (suf.) 8 Five of trump 9 Viking 10 Plate 11 Mouse-spotter’s cry 17 Beer 19 Or (Lat.) 21 Crest 22 Rounded projection 23 Forage herb 24 Hamitic language 26 Wholesome 27 Augur 28 Circle 26 Unctuous 31 Twin crystal 35 Shorten 36 Father of Jason 37 Alluvial deposit 38 Son of Lamech 39 Killer whale 40 Thick slice 41 Nat’l Park Service (abbr.) 42 Caucasian wild goat 43 P.I. volcano 45 Amer. Automobile Assn. (abbr.) 46 One who is (suf.)

Four Paws On The Road Traveling and Camping with Companion Animals

By Jenn Gehr In this new column, we will be covering many different petrelated tips and topics. Surely, there are a great number of campers out there who wouldn’t even consider leaving home without their pet(s). Nothing is more heartwarming than an exuberant puppy dog wiggle or purrrfect feline meeeowww greeting to make one feel right at home, especially when you’re on the road! When choosing to travel with pets, it’s important to be aware of how your animal is coping with the many changes to their environment as well as what it takes to create a more pleasant experience for you, your pet and your camping neighbors. So, whether you are out on a weekend getaway or a full-time RV adventure (like me...5 years and counting!,) creating a peaceful living space on a day-to-day basis can only increase the quality of your life as well as the life of your pet. A Place of Their Own When traveling with pets, it’s important to help them feel as secure and safe as possible. Much of this added confidence comes from us and our willingness to make a few adjustments to accommodate the needs of our pets. Sometimes, this can be a challenge with miles of bumpy roads, unpredictable weather and the challenge of finding “break” locations. Just as their human counterparts enjoy familiar creature comforts, companion animals are the same. Be sure you keep a special bed, blanket or crate in the same place when traveling and set up this area again once you have arrived at your camping destination to offer some sense of normal “pet space.” This may mean that your dog has a bed or mat that is always traveling with you, so that no matter where you go, your pet can come along and have their own special space. Our dogs love to be with us and the feeling is mutual. Keeping them near helps to ward off unwanted behavior such as barking, and keeps them well socialized with other pets, people, and places while allowing us to correct and praise with perfect timing for excellence in training. No matter how old your dog is, he can learn

new tricks! A soft, familiar smelling mat or blanket can easily be set up under your chair at a pet-friendly restaurant, beside you at the campground picnic table area, or at your campsite near your favorite reading chair to create that comfortable, familiar space. Cats are connoisseurs of comfort and love chasing the sun’s warm rays. It’s seems no matter where I place a snuggly bed for my cats, they always follow the sun. In an RV, the literal window of opportunity is a bit narrower than it can be found at home, but I have never seen a motorhome dashboard not occupied by the resident cat when given the chance. Be sure your finicky feline also has a favorite bed or perch to nap the days away in. Try sprinkling a dab of catnip here and there to help soothe a worried mind. Just as we all need exercise to help maintain a healthy body and aid in restful sleep, so do our pets. Even though we are on the road sightseeing, bird watching or hiking, our critters need to play! Our animals will rest better and be more content when they are physically tired. So, be sure that before you leave camp for the day, you take your four-legged friend for a brisk jaunt in the great outdoors. Most cats can’t join in on a heart-pounding hike or sniff-apalooza around the park, but they can benefit from a few games with a laser pointer or old shoelace. That being said, I do have several RV friends who have patiently harness trained their cats to enjoy walks on a leash. We are all in this together and I hope to hear from you – sharing your experiences, ideas and questions. Of course, our personal veterinarian’s recommendations are the most important and from there, each of us have our own hows and whys of various ways of doing life on the road with Fido and Felix. Have a question or want to share a tip? Please drop us a note at TBPets@equitylifestyle.com Jenn Swope-Gehr is now a full-time RVer whose life would not be complete without animals. A vet tech for nine years and a professional horse trainer, rider and instructor that still teaches national level clinics, Jenn’s expertise with helping animal owners to better connect with their own dogs, cats, birds and horses have been a daily source of pleasure and passion. Jenn and her husband, Bill, travel the country year-round with their two Boston Bulldogs, Ginger and Brie. JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

Thousand Trails PREFERRED RV DEALERS

Check out member specials on parts, service and sales by visiting our preferred RV Dealer partners listed below, or visit with them directly at our next Member Appreciation Day.

A&L RV Sales Christiana, TN - www.alrvsales.com

Charlie Obaugh RV Staunton, VA - www.charlieobaughrv.com

Alpin Haus Amsterdam - Port Jervis - Saratoga, NY - www.alpinhaus.com

Clear Creek RV Silverdale, WA - www.clearcreekrvcenter.com

Al’s Trailer Sales Salem, OR - www.alstrailers.com

Country Camping Corner Matthews and Kings Mountain, NC www.countrycamping.com

American Family RV Chesapeake, VA - www.americanfamilyrv.com Bama RV Dothan, AL - www.bamarv.com Baydo’s RV of Chehalis Chehalis, WA - www.baydosrvs.com Big Country RV Bend, OR - Redmond, OR - www.bigcrv.com Blade Chevrolet RV Mt. Vernon, WA - www.bladerv.com Boat n RV Ridgeland, SC - West Coxsackie, NY - www.boatnrv.com Browns RV McBee, SC - www.brownsrvsuperstore.com Campers Inn Jacksonville, FL - Leesburg, FL - Macon, GA - Raynham, MA Merrimack, NH Kingston, NH - Mocksville, NC www.campersinn.com 52

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Crossroads Trailers Newfield, NJ - www.crossroadstrailers.com Curtis Trailer Center Schoolcraft, MI - www.curtistrailercenter.com Ellis Travel Trailers Statesboro, GA - www.ellistraveltrailers.com Floyd’s RV Norman, OK - www.floydsrvs.com Funtime RV Tualalin, OR - www.funtimervinc.com Hayden’s RVs Richmond, VA - www.haydensrvs.net Gibs RV Superstore Coos Bay OR - www.gibsrvsuperstore.com Keystone RV Center Greencastle, PA - www.keystonervcenter.com

THOUSA N TRAILS D PREFERR DEALER ED S

Lakeside RV Sales Anderson, SC - www.lakesidervsales.com

RV Value Mart Litiz, PA - Manheim, PA - www.rvvaluemart.com

La Mesa RV Orlando, FL - Ft. Myers, FL - Port St. Lucie, FL - Yuma, AZ Sacramento, CA - San Diego, CA - www.lamesarv.com

See Grins RV Gilroy - Morgan Hill - CA - San Martin, CA www.seegrins.com

Media Camping Fairless Hills - Hatfield - Media, PA - www.mediacamping.com

Smart Choice Auto Group & RV Sales Jersey Village, TX - www.smartchoiceautogroup.com

Mike Thompson RV Superstores Santa Fe Springs, CA - Colton, CA - Fountain Valley, CA Cathedral City, CA - www.mikethompson.com

Snyder’s RV Virginia Beach, VA - www.snydersrv.com

Patterson RV Wichita Falls, TX - www.pattersonrv.com Paul Evert’s RV Country Bullhead City, AZ - Coburg, OR - Fresno, CA - Laughlin, NV Mt. Vernon, WA - Fife, WA www.rvcountry.com Phillips RV Center Mount Morris, MI - www.phillipsrv.com Princesscraft RV Round Rock, TX - www.princesscraft.com R.B. Taylor & Sons Lynchburg, VA - www.rbtaylorandsons.com Roy Robinson RV Marysville, WA - www.royrobinsonrv.com RV’s For Less Knoxville, TN - www.rvsforless.net

Sunbelt RV Center Belton, TX - www.sunbeltrv.com Sundown RV Center Atwater, CA - www.sundownrv.com Super Deals RV Inc. Douglasville, GA - www.superdealsrv.com TAC Trailer and RV Moyock, NC - www.tactrailerandrv.com Tacoma RV - Tacoma, WA - www.tacomarv.com Vogt RV - Ft. Worth, TX - www.vogtrv.com Welcome Back RV Outlet - Athens, TX www.welcomebackrv.com Western Travel Sales - Lynden, WA www.westerntravelsales.com JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

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

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Subject to availability. Reservations required. Reservation must be a minimum of 2 days and a maximum of 6 days total. Rates based on a standard site. Stays of 30 days or less are subject to $3 per day resort fee. The three month stay promotion is not available for single Zone holders. Electric not included for stays of 30 days or longer. Rates do not include taxes. Amenities vary by resort. Cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions. Rates exclusively for members` of Thousand Trails, NACO, Mid-Atlantic, Leisure Time and Outdoor World. Offer not valid on holidays and special events; certain restrictions may apply. Two week maximum stay per resort at discounted rate. Available to members that currently have access to Thousand Trails Verde Valley Preserve, excluding Zone Camping Pass holders. Certain restrictions may apply and offer is subject to change. CIRCLE NO. 104 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

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Subject to availability. Reservations required. Rates based on a standard site. Stays of 30 days or less are subject to $3 per day resort fee. The three month stay promotion is not available for single Zone holders. Electric not included for stays of 30 days or longer. Rates do not include taxes. Amenities vary by resort. Cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions. Rates exclusively for members` of Thousand Trails, NACO, Mid-Atlantic, Leisure Time and Outdoor World. Offer not valid on holidays and special events; certain restrictions may apply. Two week maximum stay per resort at discounted rate. Available to members that currently have access to Thousand Trails Verde Valley Preserve, excluding Zone Camping Pass holders. Certain restrictions may apply and offer is subject to change.

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JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

YOUR TECH QUESTIONS ANSWERED! Q: Bill, I would like to put heavier tires on my 2012 34-foot Fuzion Toy Hauler Trailer. Is it ok to put truck tires with a Load Range E rather than trailer specific tires? Is there a difference between truck tires and trailer tires anyway? Thank you, Stan Martin - Placerville, CA A: This is an excellent question, Stan! The differences between the two different types of tires are that special trailer (ST) tires are designed to withstand sitting for longer periods of time. ST tires also resist the forces that are placed on the tires sidewalls while towing heavy loads around sharp turns. All ST tires have a maximum speed rating of 65 mph where truck tires are rated at higher speeds. ST tire rubber compounds are designed to resist weather and ozone cracking better than truck tires. In short, yes, you can use truck tires on your toy hauler but be sure that the load range rating is heavy enough for your fully loaded RV. Q: Dear Bill, I have a 1997 Georgie Boy motorhome with a gear rack slide out by RBW Industries Inc. The slide is 11 feet long and 33 inches deep. The slide is out of line. The top lists towards the front of the coach making it difficult to retract. Are there bolts or pins to readjust the slide? Thank you. Ralph Azevedo A: Ralph, under separate cover I have provided you the slide out adjusting instructions from RBW-AL-KO but I’m not sure that these will help your coach. It almost sounds like a weld has broken or something has bent or become worn out allowing the one side to list more than the other. If you 60

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do need parts you can find them at rbwstore.com. There is a section for Georgie Boy motorhomes on this website. Thank you for your inquiry and I hope that this information puts you on a better track! In a worst case scenario, you may need to go to a dealer and have this issue resolved. Q: Hi, Bill. We have a 2004 Thor Mandalay coach that when parked adjacent to the house garage, and plugged into the house power, interferes with the operation of the garage doors. The remote controllers won’t work unless they are within 10 to 15 feet of the operator or on the other side of the receiver away from the motorhome. Isolation of the coach and chassis power has no effect, but turning off the 50-amp breaker for the house power returns the garage doors to normal operation. Is it possible that the battery charger or inverter could be causing the problem? Any suggestions or solutions for me would be appreciated. Thanks for your help. Ken Ayers - Eagle Point, OR A: Ken, there is something in your RV that is emitting an RF signal that interferes with the RF signal from your garage door remote. At this point, it will be a process of elimination to determine which appliance is the culprit. I suggest that you start with your converter. Unplug the converter from its AC outlet and see if that solves the problem. If not, disconnect the AC side of the inverter. If that doesn’t solve it, keep in mind that it is common for fluorescent lights to emit an RF signal so be sure that all of those lights are turned off as well. Thanks for your question!

Q: Bill, I am a fellow Carriage Cameo owner. I have a 2011 32foot FWS. Recently while camping, the AC power went out in the park and all of the interior lights and refrigerator continued to function off the coach batteries. Wanting to watch TV, I flipped on the inverter that functioned for a couple of hours. When I turned the inverter off, all of the ceiling lights and the refrigerator stopped functioning. If I turned the inverter back on, everything worked again. I checked all of the fuses and they were OK. I have a solar panel display which reads 12.6-volts. What else do I need to check in order to solve this problem? Thanks, Brian Hunt - Ventura, CA A: Brian, it sound as if your batteries are fine but the voltage is not reaching the DC fuse panel. Mounted on the front wall inside the front compartment of your Carriage you will find some breakers and fuses. Using a 12-volt test light, check to make sure that there is power to either side of the fuses and relays. When you find the problem, there will only be power to one side of the culprit that will need to be replaced or reset. Note: I highly suggest that all RVers carry a 12-volt test light to help you problem solve. This handy little tool can be found at most auto parts stores for around $5, and it’s worth every penny!

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

Continued from page 15

Las Vegas

Oregon and Washington

In the mid-1980s, Las Vegas experienced a period of unprecedented growth. Thousand Trails decided to roll the dice and got lucky with the Las Vegas Preserve in 1982. Located just six miles from the fabled Las Vegas Strip, the preserve offered scenic mountain views.

While TT conquered all things east of the Mississippi, they still had time to add to the Pacific Northwest options bringing on Oregon’s South Jetty in 1984 and Washington’s Birch Bay in 1986.

Joining the Boom

Arizona

Visiting a Vortex In 1980, the phrase “vortex” was coined for areas in Sedona that have highly concentrated energies conducive to mediation and healing. People visited Sedona to discover the possibilities these vortex areas offered. In 1983, the Verde Valley Preserve, a scenic 300acre oasis surrounded by the majestic Red Rocks, was brought into the Thousand Trails family. And whether the vortexes proved to having healing powers, Verde Valley’s views and vistas brought a definite sense of relaxation.

Making a good thing better!

So despite the fact that the 1980s were marked by major advances in technology, Thousand Trails offered the respite from all the modern gadgets that caused us to be “too connected.” With the addition of these new preserves and the continued mission to provide family camping at its best, Thousand Trails preserves were the place to make long-lasting memories that would outlast all the fads of the crazy 1980s.

New Jersey Cruisin’ to fun

Hollywood came to the Jersey Shore to film two popular 1980s movies, “Eddie and The Cruisers” and “Eddie and the Cruisers II” and so did Thousand Trails. In 1986, Chestnut Lake became the first Jersey Shore location to be enjoyed by members with beaches and boardwalks and proximity to Atlantic City.

Hershey, Pennsylvania

Florida and North Carolina Southern Charmers

The city of Orlando, Florida, grew rapidly in the 1980s thanks to the popular theme parks that brought tourism dollars in big time. So, why not offer a campground in proximity to all this fun so families could enjoy the theme parks by day and a cozy campfire at night? With the addition of the Orlando Preserve in nearby Clermont in 1984, that became a real possibility for members.

Horseshoe Lakes, Indiana

Rounding out TT’s dose of southern hospitality was the Forest Lake Preserve, also acquired in 1984. A little slice of heaven on the Yadkin River, Forest Lake was all about fishing and wildlife viewing. Nearby Lexington also offers some of the best BBQ to be found.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Tech Topics continued from page 8

the direction of rotation periodically. Check your RV’s Owner’s Manual for specific instructions for your RV. Another thing to keep in mind is the importance of having your wheels balanced, not only after rotating them, but even after simply changing a tire. Balancing the wheels keeps tires from wearing unevenly; out-of-balance tires tend to cup and can wear more at their “heavy” spot. Proper balancing extends their useful life. Have your wheels balanced when new tires are mounted or rotated, after a flat has been repaired, and any time you’ve had a tire and wheel removed and replaced. Keep your eyes on the horizon; happy trails! ### Paul and Kerri Elders are freelance writers; visit their list of RV Industry Links at RVLinker.com. Their cookbook, The American Gourmet Collection Cookbook, is available exclusively at Amazon.com.

Enjoy the Lure of Fishing with Thousand Trails and Encore Whether it’s a special Father’s Day fishing outing or any other day of this wonderful summer, drop a line with us. Here is a listing of some of our preserves that offer fishing opportunities right on site. And don’t forget, many more are nearby to some of the country’s favorite fishing holes! For complete details, visit www.ThousandTrails.com. British Columbia, Canada Cultus Lake (Lindell Beach)

Ohio Kenisee Lake (Jefferson), Wilmington (Wilmington)

Alabama Hidden Cove (Arley)

Oregon Bend/Sunriver (Bend)

California Idyllwild (Idyllwild), Lake Minden (Nicolaus), Lake of the Springs (Oregon House), Snowflower (Emigrant Gap), Wilderness (Menifee)

Maine Encore: Patten Pond (Ellsworth)

Florida Orlando (Clermont) Illinois Pine Country (Belvidere) Encore: O’Connell’s (Amboy) Indiana Horseshoe Lakes Encore: Lakeside (New Carlisle), Twin Mills (Howe) Michigan St. Clair (St. Clair)

Massachusetts Sturbridge (Sturbridge) Virginia Chesapeake Bay (Gloucester) Washington La Conner (La Conner), Little Diamond (Newport), Paradise (Silver Creek), Thunderbird (Monroe) Wisconsin Encore: Blackhawk (Milton) Fremont (Fremont), Lakeland (Milton), Neshonoc (West Salem), Yukon Trails (Lynden Station)

FOR PRESERVE INFORMATION AND RESERVATIONS VISIT WWW.THOUSANDTRAILS.COM

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Big, Best, Father’s Day Gift Adopt-A-Manatee® For Dad

SCRUBR Odor-Free Dishcloths & TREKR Self-Cleaning Washcloths Perfect for RVing and camping. They dry fast, rinse clean, and don’t get smelly. (858) 653-0401 www.lunatecgear.com

TO ADVERTISE WITH TRAILBLAZER SEND AN EMAIL TO TBads@equitylifestyle.com

Terms and Conditions for 2014 Referral Promotion Terms and Conditions: For each Eligible Referral (as defined), you will receive a $45 Visa® Prepaid Card through July 19, 2014. In addition, for each Eligible Referral, you will receive one entry in a drawing for the following prizes: (i) Grand Prize is either a trip to Hawaii or a 7 night Caribbean Cruise, valued at $4,000, includes roundtrip coach airfare for two adults from the continental United States to either Hawaii or Florida, and hotel/cruise accommodations for 7 nights; (ii) Second Prize is a trip to either Las Vegas, San Francisco or Orlando, valued at $2,000, that includes roundtrip coach airfare for two adults from the continental United States to either Las Vegas, San Francisco or Orlando and hotel accommodations for 4 nights and (iii) ten (10) Third Prizes waiving payment of the winners’ annual dues for 2014, not to exceed $525 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, 2015. The winners will be notified by telephone. The odds of winning the drawing depend on the number of entries and are not expected to exceed 1:10,000. For this promotion, an Eligible Referral is a person who (i) purchases a new Zone Park Pass from us between January 1, 2014 and December 14, 2014, and (ii) lists you as the referring member. This offer is only for members in good standing of Thousand Trails and its affiliates. Due to legal restrictions, residents of AZ, FL, NV, NY, PA and TN are not eligible to participate in the drawing and you will not receive an entry in the drawing for purchases made by residents of AZ, NV, PA or TN. We reserve the right to extend, modify, suspend, or terminate this promotion at any time for any reason; however, any rewards earned prior to the suspension or termination of this promotion will be honored. Employees of Equity LifeStyle Properties, Inc. and its affiliates are not eligible to participate in this promotion. All local, state and federal income taxes are the responsibility of the recipient. Accordingly, we recommend that all participants consult a tax advisor about reporting rewards for tax purposes. We will issue the required 1099 to each participant and to the IRS when the total value of awards you are eligible to receive equal or exceed $600 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. JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

Find The Evergreen Tree An evergreen tree is hidden somewhere in this issue. Drop us a postcard telling us where you found it, and if your card is drawn you’ll win a $25 American Express Gift Card! Sue & Wayne McCann from Burbank, California found the evergreen tree on page 11 of the April 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 May 31, 2014 and remember – the tree could be a different color and size.

Fast Facts entries will be entered in our Monthly Drawing to

win a $25 American Express Gift Card! This month’s Fast Facts winner is

Michael Belinski

of Clinton, New Jersey

Answers - Crossword puzzle can be found on page 50

Answers - Sudoku puzzle can be found on page 62

Get Cooking in w the Great Outdoors!

Be one of five Lucky Winners to receive The Great Outdoors Cookbook featured on pages 10-11. Simply send a postcard with your name, address and email to: Win the Great Outdoors Cookbook! TrailBlazer Magazine Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800 Chicago, IL 60606

Entries m ust be postmark ed by 6/30/14!

Winners will be drawn in a random drawing on July 3, 2014 and will be notified by mail or email. This promotion is sponsored by MHC Thousand Trails Limited Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606. Cookbook has a retail value of $24.95. The odds of winning the drawing depend on the number of entries received and are not expected to exceed 5:69,333.

JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

It’s your money. Save it well.

19 Per Night *

Sundays – Thursdays through June 19, 2014, get more for your money with exclusive rates at these Carefree RV Resorts.

Florida Daytona · Daytona Beach · 386-761-2663 Dunedin · Dunedin · 800-345-7504 Kissimmee South · Davenport · 863-424-1286 Homosassa River · Homosassa · 800-471-3722 Lakeland · Lakeland · 888-622-4115 Texas Austin Lone Star · Austin · 512-444-6322 Sandy Lake · Carrollton · 972-242-6808 Travelers World · San Antonio · 800-755-8310 Treetops · Arlington · 800-747-0787

North Carolina Mountains Ft. Tatham Campground · Sylva · 828-586-6662 Massachusetts/Cape Cod Campers Haven · Dennis Port · 508-398-2811 New Jersey/Shore Long Beach · Barnegat · 609-698-5684 Shady Pines · Galloway Township · 609-652-1516 California/Palm Springs area Indian Wells · Indio · 760-347-0895

*Offer is not valid holidays and special events.

off

Daily Rates

Ontario, Canada Arran Lake · Allenford · 519-934-1224 Craigleith · Clarkburg · 519-599-3840 Deer Lake · Huntsville · 352-771-5614 Grand Oaks · Cayuga· 905-772-3713 Gulliver’s Lake · Millgrove · 905-659-7300 Hidden Valley · Normandale · 519-426-5666 Lafontaine · Tiny · 705-533-2961

May through June 19th at Canadian properties. Lake Avenue · Cherry Valley · 613-476-4990 Pickerel Park · Napanee · 613-373-2812 Silver Birches · Lambton Shores Trailside · Seguin · 705-378-2844 Willow Lake · Scotland · 519-537-7360 Willowood · Amherstburg · 519-736-3201 Woodland Lake · Bornholm 519-347-2315

**Offer is based on availability and not valid holidays and special events. Sherkston Shores is not included in discount.

It’s your time. Live it well. Live carefree. carefreeRVresorts.com CIRCLE NO. 116 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

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A Fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Fish Tale

Fishing tales are handed down from generation to generation. Shared around the campfire, the fish seems to get bigger each time the story is told. This Fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day, why not create some new stories and drop a line with your favorite Dad or Granddad at one of our preserves that cater to all fishermen; from the experienced to the novice. For a list of fishermanfriendly preserves, see page 62.

JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

Thousand Trails & Encore Summer Fun Street Anywhere, USA

SAVE TODAY. VACATION TOMORROW. See how much you could save on RV insurance.

for your RV

geico.com | 1-877-434-2678 | local office

Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway|Inc.TRAILBLAZER subsidiary. ÂŠ 2014 GEICO JUNE 2014 CIRCLE NO. 132 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

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JUNE 2014 | TRAILBLAZER

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