TrailBlazer Magazine - June 2013 by TrailBlazer Magazine

JUNE 2013 n $2.00 www.trailblazermagazine.net

ROAD TRIP

National Parks & Farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Markets

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A True TrailBlazer: Global Noble Ask RV Bill

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Spotlight: Teddy Roosevelt

2013

Camping is always better with friends! Receive a $25 American Express Gift Card when your referral purchases a Zone Camping Pass. Your referral also enters you into our 2013 drawing for a chance to win these great prizes.

Grand Prize

or 7 Night Cruise Trip to Hawea)ii (a $4,000 valu

Second Prize 4 Nights in either Las Vegas, San Francisco or Orlando

Third Prize FREE DUES for 2014

(10 winners se lected) (up to $525 va lue)

(a $2,000 value)

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Details and qualifications for participation in this promotion may apply and are set forth on page 51 of this magazine.

VOL. 35 n ISSUE 5

JUNE2013 CONTENTS Message from Marguerite Tech Topics Who’s in the Kitchen with TrailBlazer

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TrailMix 12 Activities & Events

News & Notes 20

FARMERS’ MARKETS

With a bounty of the freshest locally-grown fruits and vegetables, browsing Farmers’ Markets is a favorite summer pastime. Hit the road with us as we visit some of the country’s best Farmers’ Markets.

I Knew I Was a TrailBlazer

Spotlight: Teddy Roosevelt

On the Road: Dolly Parton

A True TrailBlazer: Global Noble

Features: Roadtrip: Farmers’ Markets

National Parks 38 Member Deals 44 Advertiser Index 50 Crossword Puzzle 50 Preserve Services Directory

Winding Roads 62 Sudoku Puzzle 63 Classified Advertising

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Glacier National Park/Montana

On Location 66

NATIONAL PARKS

More than 280 million people visited our National Parks in 2012. Why not join in the fun this summer and take a tour of some of these national treasures. Our Road Trip continues as we highlight just a few of the more than 401 sites contained with our national park system.

Cover photo courtesy Pike Place Market PDA JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Letters to the Editor

Send your letters to TrailBlazer Magazine, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, Illinois 60606, or send an email to TBeditor@equitylifestyle.com.

Jim H. wrote – Overall I like the layout of the magazine and the content is very interesting but I find I do not read the ones with too much background. I have noticed these same problems with other issues but I finally sat down to share my thoughts with you. Hope you consider this positive feedback! We certainly do Jim, and thanks for taking the time to write us. We have heard a few other comments about readability so we’ve made some changes. Hopefully you’ve noticed them in our last issue and we plan to keep an eye on the readability of features in future issues. Thanks again for the comments. Glen R. wrote – You asked in the April 2013 TrailBlazer what you could do to enhance our outdoor lifestyle experience and here is my request. In December of 2007, TrailBlazer published a Special Directory Edition listing all the preserves and their descriptions, Driving Directions and Rules. We have been actively using our copy since 2007 but it is really dog-eared and taped together now. In addition, some of the information needs correction as some has changed over the last 6 years and GPS coordinates were not even thought of then. We are in dire need of a new directory. We travel extensively around the country and have been to many of the preserves and campgrounds and this would truly enhance our outdoor lifestyle experience.

Jean W. wrote – As members of Thousand Trails we receive the Trailblazer Magazine. In the calendar section, which lists the events happening at the preserves each month why is there no listing for the Hershey Preserve? There has not been any listing for this preserve for several years. There are listing for PA Dutch, Circle M, etc. but nothing for Hershey and we just wondered why. Thank you for your inquiry. We ask all of the preserves to provide their calendar information to us, however, due to our print schedule we are requesting information at least two months in advance and it is possible the preserve does not have the information finalized at the time of our content deadlines. Please note that if you visit www. thousandtrails.com you should be able to find event listings under each preserve. Thank you again for your comments. Dolores A. wrote – What is with this Louisa & Clark? For years Thousand Trails/Naco have had Buddy and Blossom on their shirts, stuffed bears and many other things. In fact I have a Buddy and Blossom stuffed animal and have them travel with me whenever I go camping. Please know that Buddy and Blossom are still very much a part of the TT family. Louisa & Clark are just a “promo team” we created to go along with us on our Summer Trip Series. Watch for more with Buddy and Blossom in future issues.

Thanks for listening! Yes, we agree that Special Directory was popular and certainly put to good use. Please note that we have mailed you a copy of our newer directory. We are also looking in to publishing another directory similar to the 2007 Special Directory and will keep our readers posted on that project.

Both Jeff S. and Daryl T. indicated they would like to see an online directory of local attractions and guest favorites near each preserve, similar to what Sue S. requested in her letter in our May issue. Note: while we have replied to Jeff and Daryl directly via email, please see the box below to read about our plans to create such a directory.

Readers: We need your help! In order to begin creating an online directory that would point our preserve guests in the right direction, please let us know your favorite local spots when visiting our preserves. Is there a great shopping area, is there a not-to-be-missed pizza place? Where’s the best burger, what’s the best local attraction? Send your comments to TBeditor@equitylifestyle.com. 4

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MESSAGE FROM MARGUERITE

2013

housand Trails loves the month of June! Not only is June designated as Great Outdoors Month, but June 8 is National Get Outdoors Day, and June 22 is the Great American Backyard Campout. These events play perfectly into our mantra encouraging everyone to Get Out and Camp. Last year, in a Presidential Proclamation, President Obama encouraged all Americans to spend time in the great outdoors, highlighting not only the health and economic benefits from spending time outdoors, but also the fun. Similarly, the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) encourages the same thing through their Great American Backyard Campout. Noting that 25% of kids play outside daily, as opposed to 75% a generation ago, the NWF, through the Great American Backyard Campout, encourages families and friends to reconnect with the natural world. We like that idea – and you know that’s what we’re all about. That’s why this is a perfect time to let you know about our newest Zone product (in case you haven’t heard the buzz by now). We’d like to introduce our newest Camping Zone - the Midwest. In our efforts to get everyone into the camping zone, we’ve realigned a few zones and created a zone specific to the heartland of our country. The Midwest Zone will include a total of thirteen campgrounds – four in Wisconsin, three in Indiana, two in both Michigan and Ohio, and one each in Illinois and Kentucky. From locations near Wisconsin’s

popular Dells and Door County to a picturesque Kentucky location that is just minutes from the entrance to Mammoth Cave, there’s a range of things to see and do in this new zone. For those of you holding Northeast and Southeast Zones, you should know that you still have access to the campgrounds from your zone that have now moved into the Midwest Zone. In this issue, we continue our Summer Road Trip series and the national parks features play right into the whole concept of getting outside and enjoying nature. Thanks to the Roosevelts – Teddy and Franklin, our country moved in the right direction in preserving our land as well as our wildlife. Check out the Spotlight on page 27 which explains how Teddy Roosevelt decided to designate historic landmarks and national parks. And, it was thanks to President Franklin Roosevelt that the National Wildlife Federation came to exist. In fact, one of the NWF’s area of focus is connecting people to nature. Something we know a lot about. This month, we’re running a Get Out and Camp sweepstakes on our Facebook page. Simply like us on Facebook and complete the entry form and you can win free camping nights and camping gear. We are also continuing our Member Appreciation Events – for dates and preserve locations go to page 14. So, armed with a mission to have fun, enjoy nature and Get Out and Camp, we hope to see you this June!

Marguerite Nader President & CEO

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Lake of the Springs: My son Jevon fishing. He loves to fish! - Jolanda Jackson, Yuba City, CA 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 DESIGNER Heather Anderson ADVERTISING SALES 877-252-9320 TBads@equitylifestyle.com TRAILBLAZER (ISSN 0747-2293) is published monthly except bimonthly Nov./Dec. and Jan./ Feb. by MHCTT Memberships, LP, c/o Equity LifeStyle Properties, Inc., Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606. An annual subscription is $20. Periodicals postage paid at Chicago, IL and additional offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to TRAILBLAZER, 2325 Highway 90, Gautier, MS 39553. Canada Post Publication Mail Agreement 41461526.

TrailBlazer Magazine

Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800 Chicago, IL 60606 www.trailblazermagazine.net

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

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.

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

PICS FROM THE PARKS Pacific City: Hang gliders from a nearby cliff above Cape Lookout State Park. We happened to be there on a gorgeous day! A beautiful 11 mile coastal drive from Pacific City. - Jennifer Ducummon, Tillamook, OR

Horseshoe Lakes: Best turtle hangout in the neighborhood. - Martha VanCise, Clinton, IN

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

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 2013 dues on time and camp at your favorite TT Preserve.

er, th’s winn This mon ortune, , Richard F h his wife it w e r e h was pictured rside, CA e iv R m o Lakes Jadine, fr ilderness ith W t a g in camp ted w as presen . w e h n e d wh 0 gift car his $1,00 ere ictured h p e b u o y Will th? next mon

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When you pay your annual dues for 2013 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 2013. In addition, once you pay your dues in full, each time you camp at a Thousand Trails Preserve in 2013, 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, 2013. This promotion is sponsored by MHC Thousand Trails Limtied Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606.

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Tech Topics by Paul and Kerri Elders

▶ This month we’re going to do a quick run-down of a little common sense electrical advice to add a bit of an extra measure of safety to all your travels, and also take a look at a few surprising tips to help keep your high tech countertops looking their best mile after mile.

A Few Quick Tips for Electrical Safety

Electrical safety may not be very exciting, but it’s IMPORTANT, especially in an RV. Here’s a quick rundown of some essential “Dos and Don’ts” to help keep your rig safe and sound. First on the list: Never overload your electrical outlets. Resist the temptation to install a mini-network of multi-plug outlets throughout your RV If you find you must use an extension cord, use it only temporarily and always use the shortest length extension cord you can find that will fit the bill. When unplugging any cord, grasp it around the plug grip; don’t simply pull on the cord itself, because you run the risk of loosening or even breaking the wires connected to the prongs which can lead to shorts and trouble. And of course, it goes without saying that you should never use a cord of any kind that is frayed, has cracked or burnedlooking insulation, or has obviously loose or damaged plugs. When buying extension cords, it’s also a good idea to look for the UL (Underwriters Laboratory) seal of approval before purchase. Make it a habit to unplug all kitchen appliances and hair dryers after use. And if you travel with children, please use safety covers over all electrical outlets to protect them from their own curiosity.

wood surfaces can. But it does require a little special care. DuPont offers some useful tips for caring for Corian; check with your particular manufacturer of solid surface countertop to see if this advice is applicable to you, too. DuPont suggests that for routine care, simply use soapy water and clean rinse water, commercially available solid surface cleaners, or ammonia-based cleaners. But don’t use window cleaners, since they can dull the finish by leaving behind a waxy buildup (who knew?). They emphasize that to avoid dulling the surface, you should always thoroughly dry your countertops after cleaning or wiping up spills. Otherwise, mineral buildup will gradually dull the surface. And, according to DuPont, darker colors actually tend to require more frequent cleaning than lighter colors. Surprisingly, DuPont even specifically recommends cleaners such as CLR and Lime-A-Way for removing hard water marks from your countertops. If residue is difficult to remove, Stone Care International makes a product called “Deep Cleaner for DuPont Corian” that can be sprayed on and rinsed away.

Countertop Care

Along with other luxurious amenities, solid surface countertops are common now in many lines and price ranges of motorhomes, fifth wheels, and travel trailers.

Periodically disinfect your countertop surfaces by using about 2-1/2 tablespoons of household bleach in ½ gallon of water. And to enhance the shine on semi-gloss and high-gloss finishes, DuPont specifically recommends countertop polishes such as Countertop Magic, Hope’s Perfect Countertop or Enhance Countertop Polish.

RVs of all sizes and shapes are outfitted with beautiful Corian (or other brand) solid-surface countertops. This acrylic countertop material is non-porous, which makes it ideal for kitchens, since it doesn’t harbor bacteria like

Solid surface sinks can be cleaned using Soft Scrub cleaner and a Scotch-Brite pad, rubbing the Scotch-Brite pad evenly over the entire sink to blend in the finish. But they caution to NEVER use a Scotch-Brite pad on the Continued on page 62 JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

WHO’S IN THE KITCHEN

with TrailBlazer?

FARMERS’ MARKET

finds by Lesley Tennessen www.dutchovendiva.com

here’s nothing better than combining the freshest of the fresh, naturally good and good for you ingredients like ripened tomatoes and fresh herbs to make a savory tart or the bite of Granny Smith apples mixed with cinnamon and sugar to make the sweetest of desserts. These recipes will put to use farmers’ market finds and have everyone flocking to your table.

Fresh Tomato-Ricotta Tart

(Adapted from Martha Stewart’s Tomato-Ricotta Tart)

Serves 8 I love tomatoes, especially when they are in season. This super flavorful tart is fast, simple and good with almost any main dish. The unique breadcrumb crust adds tremendous flavor to the combination of tomatoes, ricotta, parmesan and fresh herbs. Cooking Requirements: 1 9-10 in Springform pan as an insert 425 degree 12-inch Dutch oven (20 coals on top, 10 coals on bottom, in a ring) Ingredients: 1 medium tomato, thinly sliced (1/4 inch slice) 2 cups of coarse fresh breadcrumbs or panko style breadcrumbs* ¼-1/2 cup of olive oil, plus more for brushing over tart 1 cup (8 ounces) fresh whole-milk ricotta (diced in small pieces) ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese 3 extra large eggs (or 4 large eggs) ¼ cup chopped fresh basil 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon pepper

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

In a bowl, mix the breadcrumbs* and ¼ or a little more olive oil (if you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, see my recipe). In a 9-inch Springform plan (this pan has a removable bottom) pour the breadcrumb mixture, pressing evenly into the bottom. In a bowl, whisk eggs, ricotta, Parmesan, basil, salt and pepper and pour and spread over the crust, leaving a 1/2 inch from the end. Arrange the sliced tomatoes on top overlapping slightly, if desired. Brush the tomatoes with olive oil. Bake at 425 degree until tomatoes are almost dry, about 40 minutes (if tomatoes do not look cooked,

Tomato-Ricotta Tart continued

bake for another 5 minutes.) Pull the Springform pan from the Dutch oven. Let cool and unmold. Serve warm or at room temperature. *To make your own breadcrumbs take 5-6 pieces of (any) bread (with crusts) roughly cut, place in a Cuisinart and

pulse to get coarse (not fine crumbs). In a frying pan, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and lightly toast the crumbs for approximately 5-8 minutes, stirring frequently. Season with salt and pepper and let cool a bit.

Roasted Spring Root Vegetables (Adapted for the Dutch oven from Food52 blog)

Serves 6-8 Cooking Requirements: 350 degree 12-inch Dutch oven (15-17 coals on top, 10 coals below) Ingredients: 3 spring Vidalia onions, quartered 12 radishes, halved (for small ones) or quartered (for large ones) 3 turnips, peeled and diced to 1-inch thickness 3 carrots, peeled and diced to 1-inch thickness 3 Tablespoons olive oil Salt and pepper or some combination of thyme, rosemary, salt/pepper Combine vegetables in a large bowl and coat with olive oil, salt and pepper. Stir with spoon or toss with hands to make sure all pieces are evenly coated. Put the vegetables in to the Dutch oven and roast at 400 degree oven for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Vegetables will have caramel-brown edges when ready. Toss vegetables with Horseradish-Thyme Butter and serve.

Horseradish-Thyme Butter (Adapted for the Dutch oven from Food52 blog)

Cooking Requirements: 6 or 8-inch skillet or Dutch oven (8-10 coals underneath) Ingredients: 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter 1 Tablespoon prepared horseradish 1 Tablespoon chopped fresh thyme 2 teaspoons sherry vinegar 1/2 teaspoon salt

Apple Pie with Cinnamon Roll Pie Crust Cooking Requirements: 375 degree 10-inch Dutch oven (17 coals on lid, 10 coals below) Parchment paper Ingredients for Pie: 1 package of refrigerated pie crusts (the ones in the box, 2 rolls to a box) 2-4 Tablespoons cinnamon (I like Saigon/Vietnamese style) 4-6 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced thin 1 teaspoon dried lemon peel, or Â˝ tsp of lemon zest Pinch of salt Ingredients for Crumb Topping: 1 stick unsalted butter, softened 1 cup flour 1 cup rolled oats (I use old-fashioned) Â˝ cup brown sugar, packed Continued on page 62 JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

TRAILMIX

National Parks AND MORE

ith over 84 million acres, there’s a lot to see in American’s national park system. With just a sneak preview in our feature this month, we thought we would make visiting these treasures even easier by highlighting just a few near our preserves. If you’re looking for an area not listed here, visit www. nps.gov to find a listing of national parks by state.

California

Joshua Tree: TT’s Palm Springs, Encore’s Palm Springs Oasis (50 miles) Joshua Tree National Park is a favorite of birders as it is home to more than 250 species of birds. Spread over approximately 800,000 acres, this national park includes two deserts, the higher Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert. It features natural gardens of cacti as well as five fan palm oases. Joshua Tree National park was established as a national park in 1994. Muir Woods: TT’s Russian River (76 miles) Encore’s San Francisco RV (28 miles) With towering redwoods, some well over 500 years old, Muir Woods was named for Scottish-born, American naturalist, John Muir, who was also instrumental in preserving Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks, and was the founder of the Photos: Muir Woods, Yosemite, Acadia National Park, Mammoth Cave Background: Joshua Tree

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Sierra Club. Named by President Theodore Roosevelt as the country’s seventh natural monument in 1917, the land was donated by Congressman William Kent. Dominated by the majestic redwoods, visitors might also see black-tailed deer, the northern spotted owl, river otters and even a wild turkey. The park has six miles of trails, all of which provide views of the redwoods, which are considered the tallest living things in the world. Yosemite: TT’s Yosemite Lakes (less than 5 miles) Encompassing more than 1,200 square miles, Yosemite is best known for its bounty of waterfalls. Thrill to the roaring runoff of Yosemite Falls (April through June) or view Horsetail Falls at sunset when it appears to be on fire as it reflects the glow of the setting sun (midlate February). Rock formations are another reason to visit Yosemite and you don’t want to miss El Capital (a favorite for experienced rock climbers) or the popular, and often photographed Half Dome.

catch the sun rise in all its glory. Rugged and rocky, dotted with bridges, cliffs and waterfalls, the park, which is actually a cluster of islands, also offers 140 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of carriage roads.

Florida

Everglades National Park: TT’s Peace River (150 miles) At a whopping 1.5 million acres of tropical and subtropical habitat, Everglades National Park is one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems. In addition to its designation as a National Park (granted in 1934), the park is also designated as an International Biosphere Reserve, a Wetland of International Importance and a World Heritage Site. The park features five different habitats, the Hammock, Mangrove, Pineland, Sawgrass and Slough. Visitors can see tree frogs, alligators, the American Crocodile, manatee, Key deer, otters and the Florida panther.

Kentucky

Mammoth Cave National Park: TT’s Diamond Caverns (10 miles) The world’s longest cave system can be found right here at Mammoth Cave National Park, which geologists estimate began forming 10 million years ago. With more than 365 miles, tours have been offered here since 1816 and the caves have sparked legends and lore universally. Birds and amphibians, mammals and mollusks, yes mollusks, make their home at this Kentucky gem that was named a World Heritage Site in 1981 and an International Biosphere Reserve in 1990.

Maine

Acadia National Park: Encore’s Mt. Desert Narrows, Narrows Too, Patten Pond (10-20 miles) Boasting the highest point on the U.S. Atlantic coast, Acadia National park encompasses over 47,000 acres. Cadillac Mountain, the afore-mentioned highest point, is known as the spot to

New York

Adirondack Park: Encore’s Alpine Lake, Lake George Escape, Lake George Schroon Valley Covering over 6 million acres, packed with towering Adirondacks, waterways, forest, mountains and all kinds of flora and fauna, one would think that the Adirondack Park is a national park. But in actuality, it is not. It is a National Historic Landmark and is the largest publicly protected area in the contiguous United States. Created by the State of New York in 1892, the Adirondack National Park, is constitutionally protected as a “forever wild” forest preserve. Visitors can hike, ski, fish, camp and simply enjoy the pristine beauty that is the Adirondacks.

Oregon

Crater Lake National Park: TT’s Bend/Sunriver (140 miles) A deep blue lake, surrounded by soaring cliffs and a dormant volcano! It’s no wonder Crater Lake is visited by more than half a million people annually. Crater Lake itself is the deepest lake in the United States and the seventh deepest in the world with a depth of 1,943 feet. Ranging elevations, diverse habitats and a variety of wildlife make this national park a natural classroom. Continued on page 65

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Calendar - June 2013 ACTIVITIES & EVENTS CALENDAR

Member Appreciation Events - Saturday June 22 Check with individual preserve for event time

Oregon: Bend/Sunriver Texas: Bay Landing, Colorado River, Lake Conroe, Lake Tawakoni, Lake Texoma, Lake Whitney, Medina Lake Washington: Crescent Bar, Grandy Creek, Little Diamond, Long Beach, Oceana, Paradise BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA Cultus Lake June 15-16: Father’s Day Weekend: Breakfast will be available Saturday and Sunday. For dinner on Saturday, bring Dad to the Rec Hall for our cook’s famous burgers and hot dogs at 5:30 p.m. Remember that on Sunday, Father’s Day, Dads get a free breakfast. June 28-July 1: Canada Day Weekend - Happy Birthday Canada! Breakfast will be available each day of the holiday from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. On Monday, the kids will make a decoration for their bikes and then join our bike parade where there will be judges and prizes. The parade will be held at 11 a.m. On Saturday evening we will be having a spaghetti dinner at 5:30 p.m. Come join our Recreation Staff at 7 p.m. for a night of karaoke. Please note that checkout on the 1st will be delayed until 3 p.m. so you all can come to the Rec Hall to celebrate Canada Day at 1 p.m. We will be serving complimentary birthday cake. CALIFORNIA Idyllwild June 16-17: Father’s Day Weekend: The Recreation Staff has a lot of fun activities planned for this weekend, including a craft for kids and family to make together. Check the activity schedule in your welcome packet for other planned activities this weekend. June 22-23: Yea! School is Out Weekend: Join the Recreation Staff to celebrate the end of the school year. Friday night we will have s’mores at the amphitheater. On Saturday, we will have craft activities along with Candy Bar Bingo. Check the activity schedule in your welcome package for other planned activities this weekend.

June 6-9 94th Annual Cherry Festival This festival offers arts and crafts, live entertainment, food vendors and exhibits. Held at Stewart Park in Beaumont, just 35 miles from the preserve. For information call (951) 769-7114. June 8-9 Idyllwild’s Plein Air Festival Come watch artists paint through the Village of Idyllwild, daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information call (951) 659-2145.

Lake of the Springs Every Saturday in June, John Carter will perform at our Family Campfire Singalong and Marshmallow Roast. June 1: Jim Hunter Band performs country. June 8: The McBride Brothers perform 60s-style rock and roll. June 15: Heading Due West performs country. June 16: Happy Father’s Day: Dads may get a free French Toast breakfast on Sunday morning. June 22: Joanie Lee and the Southern Wings perform a little country and easy rock. June 29: The James Slack Band gets your feet moving with country sounds. 14

(Events may be subject to change)

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Lake Minden May 31 - June 2: 1910s & 20s: Remember when Ping Pong, Marbles, Jacks and Horsehoes were the rage and Baseball was just beginning? Probably not, so join us for a weekend celebrating the 1910s and 20s with themed activities, crafts, music and food. Come inside for the Friday Night Potluck Social, Brown Bag Bingo and Saturday Candy Bar Bingo and the Ice Cream Social. June 7-9: 1930s & 40s: Revisit the 1930s and 40s with Mickey Mouse, Monopoly and Marbles, Tiddlywinks and Jacks, Jump Ropes and Hopscotch, Baseball Slinky, Scrabble, Candy Land, Chutes and Ladders, Clue, Silly Putty, and Sorry. The Electric RC Boats will be having their National Races June 4-7. The Yuba City Moose Lodge will be having their Annual Summer Picnic on Saturday June 8. June 14-16: 1950 & 60s: In the 50s and 60s Legos, Matchbox Cars, Hula Hoops, Pick-up Sticks, Etch-a-Sketch, Silly Putty, Spirograph, and Battleship became popular. Come relive the good old days and participate in some games and activities. Pom Pom the Clown will be here Saturday with a variety of children’s activities. Show off your best Twist moves at the Saturday Night Barn Dance. June 21-23: 1970s & 80s: Remember when Pet Rocks, the Rubik’s Cube and Connect Four were the rage? We do and we’re bringing them back for a weekend of good old fun. Come to the Friday Night Potluck dressed in your favorite 70s or 80s apparel and win a prize for best nostalgic outfit. Join us Saturday after Candy Bar Bingo and the Ice Cream Social and show your singing talent at an afternoon of 70s and 80s Karaoke. June 23-24: Join us as we host the Ham Radio ARRL Field Days. June 28-30: Times Change: The 90s & 2000s were all about change and the Computer Age. Change is good, but let’s step away from those laptops, put down your iPads and cell phones and get back to basics with some good old-fashioned fun and games. Join us for Paddle Boat Races, a Scavenger Hunt, Mini-Golf and other great outdoor activities. Come inside for the Friday Night Potluck Social, Bingo and on Saturday for Candy Bar Bingo and the Ice Cream Social. Watch the RC Boats race on June 29-30. Pio Pico June 8: “Rock Your Way Into Summer” End of School Party! Movie Night on the Lawn! June 15-16: Celebrate Dad! Crafts, Games and Candy Bingo! Come Treat Dad to a Saturday night special Rib Eye Steak Dinner at the Coyote Canyon Café from 5-7 p.m.! June 22: Dive into Summer Saturday! Fun in the sun all day long followed by Movie Night on the Lawn! June 29: Carnival Craziness! Play Games, Win Prizes! Ice Cream Social! For details on all activities call (619) 421-0104, x1. Please note activities are subject to change. Ongoing National Comedy Theatre Based completely on audience suggestions, the cast creates an entire show from scratch. Appropriate for all audiences. Cost: $12 - $15. For schedule and more information call (619) 295-4999.

June 8 American River TrailFest Join the Coloma/Lotus community and American River Conservancy in celebrating and supporting local trails! The 10th annual American River TrailFest fundraiser features live music, dancing, auctions, great food, local wine and beer. Tickets are $30/adults and $15/youth (6-12), under 6 is FREE. Event hours are 5 to 10 p.m. and is held at Earthtrek Expeditions Camp, just across from the preserve. For information call (530) 621-1224 or visit www.arconservancy.org/trailfest. June 13-16 El Dorado County Fair: Blue Jeans and Country Dreams At the El Dorado County Fair fun will be had by all who visit. There will be something for everyone of any age. From exhibits, live music, animal acts, car show, rides, livestock, not to mention the food, it’s all available at the fair. Fairgrounds are just 12 miles from the preserve. For information call (530) 621.5860 or visit www. eldoradocountyfair.org. Rancho Oso Every Saturday: 11:00-Noon: Come on down to the arena to watch the stock dogs herding sheep and cattle and stay for the bucking bull demo! Get up close and personal with our young bulls as we prepare them for a future in rodeo! A definite photo op! Every Weekend: Join the fun and hop on board the famous Rancho Oso hay wagon to take a tour of our beautiful resort! Wagon will drop off passengers at the barn for the stock dog and bucking bull demo and barn tour. Don’t forget to call the stables at (805) 683-5110 to book your unforgettable horseback ride for ages 8 and over. Of course, your little buckaroos can get their first ride on a big horse, led by one of our friendly wranglers! This is a great “photo-op” for your scrapbook. Early summer weather is perfect for hiking, swimming, riding, photography, or wine tasting in the Santa Ynez Valley, only a scenic half hour drive away. Don’t want to drive? You can easily arrange a guided winery tour with a local tour company! Later on Saturday, join us for the Ice Cream Social to make your favorite sundae or hot chocolate! Keep the weekend sweet with our Candy Bar Bingo too! Check out our breakfasts on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and dinners on Friday and Saturday at the Stone Lodge Kitchen! Our chuck wagon is open serving lunch on Saturday and Sunday – great burgers!

June 8 Old Santa Ynez Day - Downtown Santa Ynez Annual celebration where the Old West comes to life as the frontier town of Santa Ynez celebrates its birthday. Classic parade, food and entertainment. All along Sagunto Street, downtown Santa Ynez. Street vendors including Arts & Crafts, Antiques & Collectibles, Local Products, Foods. Fun for the whole family. Just 20 miles from the preserve.

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS CALENDAR

Ponderosa June 21-23 Summer Solstice Parade and Festival The Summer Solstice parade features more than 1,000 parade participants, complete with extravagant floats, whimsical costumes and creatively choreographed dancing ensembles. Festivities continue all weekend long in the park with food, music and vendors of all kinds. This year’s theme is Creatures! Held in Downtown Santa Barbara and Alameda Park, approximately 20 miles form the preserve. Event hours are 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, 12-8 p.m. on Saturday and 12-6 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free. For information call (805) 965-3396.

Wilderness June 1: Casino Night: Come play Blackjack for FREE. Play with Wilderness money and get rich. Tickets given and drawing for prizes at the end of the evening. Must be 21 to play. June 8: Movie Nights with FREE popcorn. June 15: Father’s Day Weekend: We’ll make gifts for Dad at Kids Crafts. Treat Dad to a Steak Dinner in our Kitchen. Coyote Country D.J. plays any type of music you could imagine. Bring the whole gang and enjoy quality time together. June 16: Father’s Day ~ “Be Nice To Dad”. FREE Cake for ALL Dads Sunday at the Ice Cream Social. June 22: J.D. & Debbie McBreity’s Cornbread Entertainment plays outside of the Family Pool area for your listening pleasure. June 29: Dominic’s Karaoke for the whole family. Who knows you might be discovered for American Idol. ILLINOIS Pine Country June 18-19 Pop’s Production Car Show and Swap Meet Held at the Boone County Fairgrounds, just two miles from the preserve. For information visit www.fathersdayweekendcarshow. com. MASSACHUSETTS Gateway to Cape Cod June 14-16: Fly a Kite Weekend: Lots of fun! We have a large field to fly kites and lots of space to run with it. June 28-29: Pet Weekend: Show off your pets in a “Pet Parade” Saturday afternoon. Pets can do their tricks and if you like to dress up your pet this is the time to do it. Prizes for best dressed and best tricks performed. June 6-9 New Bedford Days of Portugal New Bedford celebrates its deep cultural ties and tradition with Portugal. Event is held at Acushnet Avenue from Bullard to Beetle Streets. For information call (508) 322-7025 or visit www.nb-dayofportugal.com.

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS CALENDAR

May through October Tours at Nauset Lighthouse Nauset Light Preservation Society volunteers lead tours of the lighthouse and provide historic information. Tours are free, donations accepted and some parking fees may apply. Check website for dates and times. For information call (508) 240-2612 or visit www.nausetlight.org.

NEW JERSEY Lake & Shore June 14-16: Father’s Day Weekend: Fishing, golf, NASCAR - what more could Dad ask for? Come on down Dads and relax - we will have fishing and minigolf tournaments and on Sunday we will be screening the NASCAR Race. There will be plenty of activities and crafts for kids so make sure to come and celebrate the Dad in your life. June 21-23: Kick Off Summer Cook-Off: Summer is finally here and what better way to start it off then by coming to your favorite resort? We have a jam-packed weekend of fun with pool parties, games, crafts and more. Calling all Grilling Masters out there - this weekend will be our first ever Campground Chopped! Come on out and compete in this crazy grilling event that is sure to be tons of fun. Then it’s out with the old and in with the new with our camp-wide garage sale on Saturday and Sunday. June 28-30: Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Do you LOVE chocolate? Then this is a weekend you won’t want to miss. We will have a chocolate slip and slide, chocolate games, late night chocolate hunt, candy bar bingo, chocolate crafts and more. Be sure to attend our chocolate buffet Saturday night. NEW YORK Rondout Valley June 7-8: Scouting Weekend: The Girl/Boy Scouts will be holding their annual fun-filled weekend of great learning activities. There will be lots of great activities for all to join in on and a DJ Friday night. Please call the office for details on how your troop can participate in this wonderful, fun filled learning experience. The theme this year is TRY SOMETHING NEW. There are Special Events and Entertainment planned for the entire weekend. June 2223: Flea Market/Carnival Weekend: This weekend you are sure to find some treasures! Take a walk around our beautiful park and see what your fellow campers are selling. We will also have vendors in the pavilion including Avon, Pampered Chef, Tupperware, Partylite Candles and others, so please be sure to stop by. Activities has loads of special games and prizes planned for you including face painting. Entertainment on Saturday features the J20 Band. OHIO Kenisee Lake June 1 1890 Historic Jefferson Depot Village Tours Step back in time to 1890 as you enter the gates to the Historic 19th Century Jefferson Depot Village. Costumed villagers will give tours. Hours are Saturday and Sunday, 1-4 p.m., and Monday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information call (440) 5760496 or visit www.jeffersondepotvillage.org.

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

June 16 Antique & Classic Car Show Father’s Day Extravaganza, cars for DAD, all among historic buildings, plus Crafts, Quilts, Games for Kids and fun for all. Located at 147 E. Jefferson. For information call (440) 576-0496. June 29 Jefferson Days Community Festival Family Friendly Festival held all over town with most activities at Jefferson Central Park, located at corner of East Jefferson and Market Streets. For information call (440) 576-0100 or visit www. jeffersonchamber.com.

Wilmington June 15-16: Father’s Day Weekend: Celebrate Father’s Day at the Park. See who can catch the biggest fish and challenge Dad to a round of mini-golf. Make Dad a gift during crafts and enjoy an evening by the campfire. June 7-8 Banana Split Festival Mosey on in to the town of Wilmington (just 15 minutes form the preserve) for the annual Banana Split Festival. You will be treated to music, games, and lots of delicious ice cream! For information visit www.bananasplitfestival.com.

OREGON Pacific City June 1: UnBEEtable Day features Bee tattoos, Bee puppets, Bee yourself thumbprint Bee craft, and Bee Pinata. June 8: Let’s Go CAMO! Camo dog tags, hunt for the Camo prize bags, and fly Camo planes. June 15: Safari Daze: Make a safari mask and perform on stage with our African safari skit, plus Father’s Day crafts. June 22: Western Daze & Splash into Summer: Learn to rope, find the golden horseshoe, plus Western crafts and horseshoe toss. Local events include June Dairy Parade in Tillamook on Saturday, rodeo on Saturday and Sunday. Also, Portland Rosarians rose planting ceremony 10 a.m. at Tillamook Pioneer Museum. Kites fly high at the D River summer kite festival in Lincoln City. June 30: Fiesta Daze features nachos and salsa burgers, Chips and Salsa Social - bring a cheese or bean dip and we will provide the wine and soda. Local events include Clover’s Day parade and festival in Cloverdale and fireworks show at Bob Straub Park in Pacific City. June-September Tillamook Farmers’ Market Market is held every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Seaside June 14-15: Muscle ‘N’ Chrome & Father’s Day Weekend: Bring Dad to the beach and enjoy Seaside’s Muscle Beach Cruz on Friday and Saturday with hundreds of old cars. Take Dad to Breakfast on Sunday! On Saturday night, we will be enjoying the sounds of Storm‘in Norman’s classic rock and roll.

June 6-9 Celtic Festival At the Celtic festival there will be many activities for all ages all three days. Highlights will be Fringe Friday Events for the whole family with Sand Castle contest, Kilted Kilometer, Whiskey Tasting, Breton Fest Noz Dance, and Piping Down the Sun. Saturday and Sunday will bring Sprog’s Corner which features interaction for the kids to learn about Celtic culture and traditions. Free activities include the mini Highland game events and other fun activities. Event hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Held at the Lincoln County Fairgrounds, in Newport, just 6 minutes north of the preserve. Sponsored by the Celtic Heritage Alliance, Inc. For information call (541) 574-9366.

PENNSYLVANIA Scotrun June 6-9: First NASCAR Pocono Race: Local events are planned for the days before the race including the June 8 Raceway Street Festival in Stroudsburg which includes free entertainment and activities for all ages. Sponsored by Sherman Theater. June 23: Paws & Claws: This will be a “pawticular” special event for our treasured pets. Prizes for on-site and photos. June 21-23 Pocono Mt. Bluegrass Festival A family-oriented festival with music, plus children’s activities and workshops. Rain or shine - covered stage and seating. Event is held at Greene Dreher Sterling Fairgrounds, in Newfoundland, approximately 35 minutes from the preserve. For information call (610) 573-0797.

June 22-23 Great Taste of PA Wine & Food Festival Event features Pennsylvania’s finest wineries plus a wide selection of food vendors and continuous entertainment. There are also seminars to new learn some new things about wine. Must be 21 to be served. Held at Split Rock Resort, 100 Moseywood Road, in Lake Harmony, approximately 45 minutes from the preserve. For information call (800) 255-7624.

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS CALENDAR

Whalers Rest June 14-16: “Whalers Outback” is the theme for this weekend. We’ll have animals on the loose for our Safari Hunt and kids, we will be having extreme tropical crafts too! All Dads don’t miss out on the free Father’s Day treat at the Ice Cream Social in our South Clubhouse at 2 p.m. Head on over to the Whalers Galley Saturday night at 5 p.m. to catch dinner before the Nehemiah Brown performance in our South Clubhouse Saturday Night at 7 p.m. June 21-23: “Splash into Summer” as Whalers celebrates the first days of summer this weekend and honors all members too! After the Saturday noon BBQ lunch, join in the fun “Water Party” activities then follow with a free Ice Cream Social in our South Clubhouse at 2 p.m. “Movie In The Park” - see activity board in our South Clubhouse for time and location. June 27: This Thursday will be our Kids Extreme Game Night! “Survivor Night” is the party theme and will prove to leave lasting memories. Parents drop off your kids at 6 p.m. and then you can enjoy a couple hours for you and return at 8 p.m. to pick them up. June 28-30: “Spooks are Loose” as Whalers is calling all goblins and monsters to our haunted park. Bring your best costume and enter our contest and don’t forget we’ll have a “Fright Night Party” at 2 p.m. in our South Clubhouse on Saturday. Dinner will be served at 5 p.m. in Whalers Galley then at 7 p.m. the Bush Pilots will be performing in our South Clubhouse.

Timothy Lake North & South June 7-9: Wet-n-Wild Weekend: DJ Mike will be spinning the tunes at Timothy North and don’t forget to take part in our resort wide Water Wars events. There will be some great prizes given away for our Water Warriors! June 14-16: Father’s Day Weekend: Timothy Lake’s resident DJ Mike will be spinning away at Timothy South! Join us during the day for a canoe trip on the Delaware. June 21-23: Water World’s 20th Birthday Bash: Yes, believe it or not...Water World is 20 years old! DJ Mike will be spinning away inside Water World for the 20th Birthday Party. We will have cake, games, giveaways and prizes. June 28-30: Summer Kickoff Beach Party: And let the summer party begin in the Poconos! DJ Mike spins it away under the lights poolside at North. Our Tiki Bar will be serving non-alcoholic mixers, hot dogs and hamburgers, and join in for our 1st Annual Mr. Timothy Lake Contest. TENNESSEE Natchez Trace June 10: 60s and 70s Disco Weekend includes themed golf cart parade and “Best Flower Child” costume contest. We will have a dance and the band Overdrive will perform. June 22: Pirate Party all weekend long! At 2 p.m. we will have a Pirate Treasure Casino Celebration followed by a blind auction. At 7 p.m our Pirate Party continues with live music and dancing and a Best Dressed Pirate contest. Good Springs performs. June 29: Our First Annual NTPW County Fair is a day filled with fun including a pie cook-off and pie and hot dog eating contest. Special Events include live music, yodeling, whistling contest, speedspitting and joke-telling, tug-o-war, sack races and more. June 20-22 Summertown Bluegrass Reunion Event features live music, dancing, crafts, vendors, and good family fun. Free admission on Thursday evening, $8 on Friday and $10 on Saturday. Event is held at 662 Monument Road, Summertown, just 20 miles from the preserve. For information call (931) 964-2100. TEXAS Bay Landing June 14-16: It’s Dad’s Day: All Dads can enter in the fishing tournament or join in on the football toss, casting contest, and sign up for a game of 8-Ball at the Clubhouse. There will be a craft time for kids so they can make Dad a gift that he will treasure. Angie will be serving up a man-sized meal to end the day. June 28-July 4: It’s patriotic time again! Decorate your bikes, tricycles, golf carts and strollers for our annual bike parade for all ages. We supply the Red, White and Blue. Then - Let the games begin! All games will leave you soaked, yoked, and smelling like a banana. Don’t forget our Radical Golf Cart Races! Then step up to a buffet for a full meal deal and then it’s off to the Beachview for the Fantastic Fireworks and dancing under the stars with T-Bone Road. JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS CALENDAR

Lake Conroe June 1: 1st Annual Thousand Trails Lake Conroe Olympics and Birthday Weekend: Come join our 1st Annual Olympics. There will be Frisbee toss, relay races, long jumps, basketball free throws, jump rope, rocket toss and many more games to compete in. We will also be celebrating June birthdays so don’t miss all the fun. June 8: Wet & Wild Weekend: We are going to have a Pool Party, complete with hot dogs and snow cones. So come cool off at the pool and play some water games. Get ready to get soaked! June 15: Father’s Day Weekend: Calling all Dads - come to Lake Conroe and let us celebrate with you on your special day. We’ll start out by filling you up with our man-sized pancakes for breakfast. Then we want you to compete in our “sexiest man-legs” contest, join us for a game of washers or show us your prowess at football tossing. And kids, make sure you come to the Activity Center Saturday morning to make something special for Dad. Go Dads! June 22: Luau Weekend: Come join us for a luau with Leialoha and her fabulous show of authentic native dances.This is one weekend you’ll not want to miss! Aloha! June 29: Let’s Get it On Weekend: The games are on, so bring your competitive natures and join us for some great family fun. Lake Tawakoni June 1: Events include Walk the Park at 9 a.m., Nickel, Dime and Quarter Bingo at 10 a.m., Ice Cream Social ($1 per bowl) at 1 p.m., Washer Tournament at 1:30 p.m. June 2: Events include Sunday School and Worship Services at 8:30 a.m. June 15: Events include Walk or Ride the Park at 8:30 a.m., Bingo at 9:30 a.m., What’s Happening meeting at 11 a.m., Ice Cream Social at Noon, and Washer Tourney at 1:30 p.m. June 16: Chapel Services at 8:30 a.m. June 22: Walk the Park at 9 a.m., 10 a.m. Putt-Putt Tourney/Basketball Shoot-Out, plus Member Appreciation Weekend with 1 p.m. Ice Cream Social ($1 per bowl), 1:30 p.m Washer Tourney. June 23: Chapel Services at 8:30 a.m. June 30: Chapel Services at 8:30 a.m. Lake Texoma June 1: Russell Clapp & The Backroads Band will provide live entertainment and we will also be hosting a Smoke-Off. June 8: Live entertainment featuring Graham Guthrie/Exit 51 Band. June 15: Father’s Day Weekend events include live entertainment by Randall Kershaw. June 22: 50s Weekend will include various activities, plus Cindy Renee & Company will be here to perform WASHINGTON Birch Bay May 31-June 15: Enjoy three weekends of Halloween activities and Friday and Saturday Haunted Family Lodge Viewings from 9 to 10 p.m. June 29: Join your TT Family for a bountiful Harvest Thanksgiving Potluck at 5 p.m. Sign up at the Welcome Center. June 1 Farmers Day Parade The Farmer’s Day Parade is one of the longest running parades in the Northwest and this year will be no different! Join us on Front Street in Lynden, just 14 miles from the preserve (starting at 10th Street and running to 3rd Street) as an eclectic menagerie of cars, bands, tractors, trucks and horses 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 Farmer’s 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. For information call (360) 354-5995.

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

June 22 29th Annual Birch Bay Sand Castle Contest Get ready to dig in. It’s amazing how with a little imagination the beach at Birch Bay transforms into a series of sand castles and sand sculptures. Each takes on its own life in the form of sea life, castles, cars, dragons, people, shipwreck and more. Have some fun and see what you might come up with! Spectators will find participants using sand, water and any other natural materials found at the beach to construct their castles and sculptures. This event is open to individuals, teams, families. There is no cost to participate and it proves to be a fun day on the beach! Come on out and let your imagination run wild on the beach. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and judging is at noon. Held at the Birch Bay waterfront, less than one mile from the preserve. For information call (360) 371-5004. Chehalis June 14-16: School’s out just in time for Father’s Day! Calling all Grads and Dads, join the XBOX Kinect contest and enjoy the entertainment of Cowboy Buck, Elizabeth, and Peter Saturday evening. On Sunday, Dad’s Ice Cream Social is free! June 21-23: Splish-Splash weekend! Water games all weekend long, plus Friday night movie. On Saturday night enjoy the mellow tones of Norm Lynn. June 28-30: Vendor Fair Saturday in the Family Lodge - Man Cave, Jerky Direct, Miche Bags, and 23 more! Don’t forget our Happy TTrails horse trails are open for you equine enthusiasts (reservations required). June 11-October 11 Community Farmers Market Held at Bosifort Street in Chehalis, just 15 minutes from the preserve, Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 21-23 Winlock Egg Days Festival: The Great Eggscape Held in Downtown Winlock, just 20 minutes from the preserve.

Grandy Creek May 31-June 2: Mystery Weekend: Sherlock Holmes has nothing on our guests. Utilize your detective skills during our clue hunt throughout the park. Be suspicious of everyone, and collect every bit of evidence you can! June 7-9: Down on the Farm Western Weekend: Howdy there partner! We’re lookin’ to have a rootin’ tootin’ HOOT of a Western Party! Kids join in our chuck wagon races, come in full attire to our best Western-dressed contest and sharpen your spurs to hang on during our hayride through the park. June 14-16: Father’s Day Weekend: Let Dad sit back and relax! Show him how special he is with a homemade gift or escort him to the “Tee-off with Dad” mini-golf tourney. Be sure to fill up on Sunday’s special Father’s Day breakfast before heading home. June 21-23: Fiesta Weekend: Join us for the weekend as we take a trip to “Mexico”. Enjoy fun games and crafts, limbo contests, piñatas, and a margarita social. June 28-30: Medieval Weekend: Knights and Ladies in Waiting, join the Grandy Creek Castle in an exciting weekend of castle building, jousting and sword fighting. You can sharpen your swords by the campfire or relax playing bingo for all ages.

LaConner June 14: Please come out and join us for our first hayride of the season. Also, we’ll have s’mores at the campfire and Amy Hindman performs. June 15: How about a Dads vs. Kids challenge on the mini-golf course? Also, bring Dad to breakfast for his free breakfast. June 22: Splash into summer as water games abound (weather permitting). Free Ice Cream Social for our Member Appreciation Day. June 29: Join Shane for a day of outdoor survival - learn how to make a fire, roast a hot dog, plus take a walk on the beach or in the woods.

Little Diamond June 15: Father’s Day! Kids, make that special card for Dad, plus kids’ games and free ice cream for Dads.

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS CALENDAR

June 13-16 Berry Dairy Days Since 1937, the third weekend in June has celebrated this event. Come join us as Burlington explodes into a delicious and exciting place to be. Event features fresh local strawberry shortcake, spectacular fireworks show, fabulous parades, Kiwanis Salmon BBQ, entertainment stage with live music, nostalgic Berry Cool Car Show and more! For more information visit www.burlington-chamber.com/events/berry-dairy-days.

Mount Vernon June 14-15: Dad’s Day Weekend includes Sunday Breakfast. June 22-23: Splash Into Summer events include Ice Cream Social and dancing to the music of Charlie Moore from 7 to 9 p.m. and movie in the park. Please join us for the next two weekends to celebrate Canada Day and the Fourth of July: June 2830: Wild West Weekend: Dress in your Western best, plus on Saturday, enjoy Comedy Hypnosis from 7 to 9 p.m.

June 30-July 4 Loggerodeo The Loggerodeo is Washington’s oldest Fourth of July celebration, featuring logging contests, parades, carnival attractions, a fun run, and a must see rodeo. For information contact www.loggerodeo.com. ■

If you don’t see a preserve event listed here, visit

CIRCLE NO. 125 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

ThousandTrails.com

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

News& Notes Bay Landing, TX Bay Landing has new shuffleboard equipment.

Chehalis, WA The new CampHost office at Chehalis is now open in the former kitchen area of the Adult Lodge. Colorado River, TX Colorado River has just completed the renovation of their swimming pool, which includes new plaster and tile. Also, the underwater lighting, steps and grab handles have been repaired and polished. The cobalt blue tile surrounds the inside of the pool and there is also a row of blue tile outlining the in-pool steps and benches. Depth markers and “NODIVING” tiles were placed on the deck surface. A section of fence that hides the pumping equipment has been replaced and painted. They are also in the process of painting the wooden gazebo that shades the tables and chairs. Gateway to Cape Cod, MA Gateway to Cape Cod has recently replaced the primary electric line in the front of the preserve. This will help to provide quality electric to all sites.

r e v i R o d a r o l o C Pool

Idyllwild Welcome Cente r

will be installed soon and new sinks and fixtures are planned for the public restrooms. Lake Conroe, TX Lake Conroe has finished the 50-amp upgrades on the pullthru sites and the fence at the entrance has been painted and received new boards. Lake Minden, CA Here at Lake Minden everything is greening up beautifully. Shaded by the gorgeous spring foliage in C section, our new “Y” shaped floating boat dock is almost finished. Little Diamond, TX Little Diamond has installed a new lake fountain which will improve aeration for the fish as well as the water quality. The basketball court has a new adjustable backboard and there are new 2-person and single kayaks.

Idyllwild, CA There is new carpet and décor in the Office Building which is now the Welcome Center at Idyllwild. The updates include new fixtures, paint, decor and linoleum in the office building’s restrooms. There is a new remote control for the security gates. New front doors and signage at the Welcome Center 20

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Mount Vernon, WA Mount Vernon is completing the Welcome Center remodel and is open for business. Guests will now check in through the Welcome Center providing the ability to speak with the preserve team in a central location. There have also been some upgrades to the rental units that include furniture and bedding and the floors in the yurts have been resealed. The floor in the lodge has been resealed as well.

New!

Lake Minden

RENTAL UNITS ARE SCHEDULED TO BE DELIVERED TO THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS THOUSAND TRAILS • BEND/SUNRIVER, OR • HERSHEY, PA • LAKE AND SHORE, NJ • LAKE CONROE, TX • LAKE OF THE SPRINGS, CA • LEAVENWORTH, WA • PONDEROSA, CA • SEA PINES, NJ

Boat Dock

Natchez Trace, TN Natchez Trace has a newly remodeled Ranger/Business office. They are also remodeling several cabins and creating larger three-bed cabins. The swimming pool is getting a new deck and updated look and a new movie theater with state-ofthe-art video and sound is on the way! Pine Country, IL Pine Country is putting in a 30-site premium expansion as well as 20 new rustic tent sites – the targeted completion date is June 15 or sooner! Timothy Lake North, PA Timothy Lake North’s Welcome Center has now moved to the Country Store location which will provide guests longer guest services hours and country store hours. The Kids Activity Center and Redemption Center also received a facelift this winter including an expanded party area and the re-opening of our food service area which will be open seven days a week during the season and also offer Friday Night Pizza Specials.

ENCORE • ARROWHEAD, WI • LAKE GEORGE ESCAPE, NY • MT. HOOD, OR • O’CONNELL’S, IL • PLYMOUTH ROCK, WI • TRANQUIL TIMBERS, WI • TWIN MILLS, IN • YUKON TRAILS, WI FOR INFORMATION CALL 888-443-7301 OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.THOUSANDTRAILS.COM

Timothy Lake North

Timothy Lake South, PA Timothy Lake South’s main Building got an overhaul this winter. The interior got a fresh coat of paint with modern colors and an expanded check-in area to better serve our arriving guests. The member lounge also got a modern makeover including new LED Flat Screen TVs. Timothy Lake Road has now been repaved. ■

r Welcome Cente

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Hart Ranch Serves up Plenty of Hospitality in the Historic Black Hills. After All, This is RPI Country!

he Diamond W Award—the gold standard of the RV resort industry—is awarded annually to about two percent of the RV parks in the entire United States. One of the few is the Hart Ranch Resort in Rapid City, South Dakota. The award recognizes qualities such as investment in the park, personnel, recreation programs, maintenance, cleanliness, and hospitality. “While we are appreciative of receiving the award, we continuously strive to improve the quality and variety of service and amenities,” said Hart Ranch Resort Manager Tim Schnabel. For this season, we will be adding a Day Spa with massage, beautician and manicurist.” This road to recreational excellence began back in the 1880s, when John Harrison Hart arrived during the Gold Rush days of the Black Hills with $15 in his pocket. Eventually, he bought a 13,000-acre ranch, where he drove cattle by horseback until his death in the 1940s. Hart reveled in the Western life, and his legacy today stands as one of the region’s premier recreational resorts. The ranch reflects the simple lifestyle of a bygone age, with the admittedly modern additions of swimming pools, hot tubs and tennis courts, to name just a few. You’ll know you’re on the frontier, though, when you see cattle and buffalo still roaming these parts. “In fact, if you visit us in the early spring or late fall, you may even witness a cattle drive coming right through the resort property,” Schnabel noted. “The ‘Western’ atmosphere here is a lifestyle—full of genuine friendship, warmth and appreciation for our heritage. Come experience it for yourself!” The wonderland of the Black Hills has always attracted visitors, and Hart Ranch specializes in making their guests comfortable and happy. “Being a destination resort in an area that offers activities and attractions for all ages, we strive to take care of all your vacation concerns,” Schnabel said. “We can change your vehicle’s oil in our maintenance shop, feed you breakfast in our restaurant, entertain your children with our Junior Camper program, and set up your daily itinerary through our information desk, with all kinds of ideas on what to do and see. In fact, you can even board a free bus to the Deadwood casinos right from our front door.”

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Of course, the area is famous for Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Deadwood, but the countryside offers so much more…it’s an overflowing buffet of vacations treats. “Many visitors come to our area and expect to see ‘all there is’ in three days,” Schnabel said. “But our entire region is full of must-see sites—from the 71,000-acre Custer State Park with its 1500 head of free-roaming buffalo, to the splendor of Needles Highway and its fascinating tunnels.” Then there’s the wide array of Native American culture, not to mention the 109-mile George S. Mickelson Trail, which follows the historic Deadwood-to-Edgemont Burlington Northern rail line, enjoyed by hikers, bikers, and horseback riders alike. Back at the Ranch, you’ll find 419 full-hookup RV sites featuring 40-foot concrete slabs with 20, 30, and 50-amps of power, cable TV, and water, and access to a nearby dump station. Reservations can be made 60 days in advance for RV sites and cabins. Hart Ranch offers services and activities galore. Special nights are devoted to first-run movies on a big-screen TV (with popcorn provided), Campfire Night (including a ride on the kiddie train), potlucks and bingo, live entertainment at the pool pavilion, a crafts fair, bike parade…even a massage therapist available during the summer by appointment. The Hart Ranch location at the foot of the Black Hills, coupled with their genuine Western family hospitality and full-service modern amenities, sets the resort apart. Hart Ranch Resort along with the other RPI Resorts, help to create those family memories that last a lifetime and is another great example of the benefits of belonging to RPI. If you are not a Not an member, join now before RPI Member? the camping season starts. Add RPI Basic for Only $79 To discover the extensive or RPI Plus for $89 list of resorts available, C all and all the benefits 1-800-635-8498 gained with membership, for information please call RPI at 1-800635-8498. You must be a NACO, LTR or Mid-Atlantic me mber to qualify for this offer.

Royal Lahaina Resort, Maui and Royal Kona Resort, Big Island Royal Lahaina Resort, Maui: The Royal Lahaina Resort is located on Maui which has been honored by Conde Nast Traveler as one of the “Best Islands in the World.” The 27-acre resort is set on Kaanapali Beach, which was voted “America’s Best Beach” by “Dr. Beach.” You will know you’re in Hawai’i the moment you set foot in the understated lobby. From the cool flagstone beneath your feet to the warm koa-wood walls and inviting wicker easy chairs, you will feel the soothing embrace of the tropics.

n Five nights in a om Oceanview ro ily • Breakfast da • Luau for two unset cocktail •S ise and dinner cru r ive day Dolla •F compact car o* • $1636 for tw

Royal Kona Resort, Big Island: Even before you are welcomed to the Royal Kona Resort by the gracious staff, you will be embraced by a swirl of salt air, the life-breath of the islands. You will see it ruffling the fronds of the palm trees that fringe the 12 manicured acres, tossing the waves against the stark black lava rocks at the property’s feet and marching columns of clouds across the uninterrupted expanse of sky. The air here presents you with the perfume of tropical flowers. It is a reminder that you are on the Big Island of Hawai’i, a reminder to breathe, to exhale, and completely relax.

Travel Dates: 6/1/13 to 12/16/13 Ask us how to complete your package by adding airfare.

Call Preferred Access at (800) 281-4977 *Prices subject to availability and can change at any time and without notice. JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

The view from our site at Ponderosa

Judy and husband Bill camping in Oregon

I Knew I Was a

TrailBlazer T

his month, TrailBlazer would like to introduce you to Judy Featham. Judie loves to explore California and the Northwest with her trusty travel partners: her husband and their cat. The Feathams recently signed up for an annual site at our Bend/Sunriver preserve so they can have a mountain retreat and get out and camp more often. TB: How long have you been camping and RVing? Who introduced you to it? Tell us how it all began! JF: Both my husband and I started camping as kids with our families. I remember my whole family gathering to camp at a lake in California. Also, my grandparents had a travel trailer and they would take my cousin along on their camping trips - what fun we had. My husband and I both have great memories of camping as children and still love it today. Fishing, swimming and roasting marshmallows. We enjoy just having time away with our family. TB: How did you first hear about Thousand Trails? JF: We received a postcard in the mail from Thousand Trails offering 3 days and 2 nights camping free.

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

So we said “why not go, it’s free?” We pulled out our pop up and camped at Snowflower Preserve in California, signing up for a membership that weekend. We were hooked. TB: What is one of your fondest camping memories? How about one of your fondest TT memories? JF: My husband and I were able to take three weeks for our anniversary and travel to the CA, OR and WA preserves. Leavenworth is where we spent our two weeks time. We really enjoyed the area, hiking, visiting the nearby village, and fishing at Fish Lake. TB: Any funny camping/RVing stories? JF: On our way to Bend/Sunriver preserve we stopped in Redding, CA, overnight and the weather was 100 degrees. So then we hit the road hoping to escape the heat. We set up camp and looked around - the weather was cool but it felt good. Well, when we woke up the next morning it was in the 20s. It was so cold that our cat was lying on the heater vent. I guess that is why she is our camping cat. She really adds entertainment on the road.

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.) JF: We presently own a travel trailer pulled by a 250 heavy duty truck. Previously for seven years we owned a pop up but we were limited to the weather conditions. The travel trailer has all the conveniences of home. TB: Where have you gone that you wouldn’t have otherwise, if it hadn’t been for your Thousand Trails membership? JF: We have visited a lot of different preserves in CA, OR and WA, such as Ponderosa, Lake of the Springs, Snowflower, Rancho Oso, South Jetty, and Bend/ Sunriver because of the wide variety of amenities offered. There is the coast, mountains and a lot of lakes to visit and some are on the preserves. Then we had the opportunity to go the Bend/Sunriver preserve and we loved it. The surrounding area is so beautiful with the Cascade mountain range. We enjoyed our time so much we moved to Bend three years ago. Also, we probably wouldn’t have gone to Leavenworth, WA, but after reading about the area and a preserve close by we headed to Washington State. Our RPI membership has allowed us to rent condos in CA and OR. Renting TT cabins at various preserves makes it easy to get away.

Snowflower with family enjoying time together Ponderosa - our site on the American River

TB: What is your favorite part about the outdoor lifestyle? JF: Just being able to get away and relax. Enjoy the fresh air and the campfires at night. It gives us time together, to visit with family and to meet new friends. Also to be able to explore the other preserves and listening to other TT members about their travels. TB: Can you finish this sentence? I knew I was a TrailBlazer when... JF: I started marking the calendar with our upcoming camping trips. TB: Feel free to share any other camping/RVing stories here. JF: We were camping at Bend/Sunriver TT recently and enjoyed our stay so much that we leased an annual site. We decided this is our mountain cabin and can now camp more often.

Lake of the Springs view of the beautiful lake on the site

From funny stories to touching moments, we’re looking to tell the story of our members - when they started and when they realized they were a true “TrailBlazer.” If you’re interested in being interviewed, send us a note at TBeditor@equitylifestyle.com. ■

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

THOUSAND Gears Up TRAILS for the Season

Stay cool, and hip, this summer sporting Thousand Trails Gear and everyone will ask “who are you wearing?”

Stay Cool ^

Stay Hip

Enjoy plenty of sunny times at Thousand Trails preserves with our Aviator-style sunglasses. Glasses feature hand polished optical quality frames and G-15 lenses, and gold frame. Imprint location is upper corner of lens.

If summer weather means getting in as much golf as you can, then you won’t want to hit the links without your Thousand Trails golf umbrella. Whether rain or shine, it will keep you cool and dry. Designed with fiberglass ribs and spreaders, the windproof umbrella stretches to give 62 inches of coverage.

Stay Cool ^

Whether it’s hot coffee or iced water, our Travel Tumblers are good for hot or cold beverages. Our acrylic double-wall tumbler features threaded lid and flip-up straw, holds 16 oz. and is BPA free. Our stainless steel tumbler features 16 oz. double wall acrylic and 18/8 stainless steel tumbler. Foam insulated with push-on lid.

Keep your pup hip too!

Take your favorite, and fashionable, four-legged friend for a walk around the preserve with our TT Dog Leash. This polyester 3-foot leash with sturdy clips is good for large and small dogs and features white background with black paw print design and black TT logo.

Stay Hip ^

Our “Gone Camping” t-shirt is 100% cotton and is what every hip camper will be wearing this season. Features shoulder to shoulder taping, coverseamed neck with double needle stitched hem. Adult and youth sizes available.

Find all these items and more at www.MyRVMarket.com 26

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Spotlight | Teddy Roosevelt

s leader of the country, it seems only right that the President of the United States would take an interest in the land he walks and lives upon. However, one particular president chose to take a profound interest in preserving the natural state of the country. Theodore Roosevelt, avid outdoorsman and conservationist, not only wrote books about the great outdoors but he also preserved it by signing a piece of legislation to establish five national parks and numerous national monuments. Prior to stepping foot in a government office, Roosevelt surveyed the land as a hunter, explorer and general lover of the outdoors. He had a large interest in biology and excelled in the subject during his time at Harvard. Post graduation, Roosevelt dabbled in politics as a member of the New York State Assembly and wrote more bills than any other New York legislator ever had. It would seem he was paving the way for a bright future in politics. His heart, however, belonged to his ranch in the Badlands of the Dakota Territory, which he purchased during a buffalo hunt expedition and escaped to after he left the New York State Assembly. One ranch was not enough; Roosevelt built a second (Elk Horn) on the banks of the Little Missouri River. Here, his love for the outdoors was cultivated as he learned about riding Western-style, roping and hunting. In 1900, Roosevelt revisited his political prowess and became William McKinley’s presidential running mate. He soon took over the presidency after McKinley was assassinated in 1901. From paying attention to the wellbeing of the people to inadvertently inventing the presidential press c o n f e r e n c e , Roosevelt kept the late President McKinley’s Cabinet and promised to follow through with McKinley’s policies. This is not to say that he didn’t inject some of his own priorities into the mix. In 1906, Roosevelt enacted the Antiquities Act, which gave himself, as well as

his successors, the power to designate historic landmarks, historic or prehistoric structures, and other objects of historic or scientific interest in federal ownership as national monuments. By the end of the year, Roosevelt had named four national monuments in the United States: Devils Tower (Wyoming), El Morro (New M e x i c o ) , Montezuma Castle (Arizona) and the Petrified Forest (Arizona). Roosevelt also signed legislation establishing five national parks, which doubled the existing number, by adding the following: Crater Lake (Oregon), Wind Cave (South Dakota), Sullys Hill (North Dakota), Mesa Verde (Colorado) and Platt (Oklahoma). It is no wonder that Roosevelt is remembered as the conservation president. By the end of his term, he created 18 national monuments, including the Grand Canyon, four national game refuges, protected more than 100 million acres of national forestation and set aside 51 federal bird sanctuaries. Today, there are more National Park Service units dedicated to Roosevelt than any other American. And, the tradition continues. Each June, the current President of the United States makes a proclamation declaring June as Great Outdoors Month. The 2012 proclamation named Theodore Roosevelt as a forward-thinking American for his love of the outdoors and encourages individuals to enjoy the natural splendor of the country by camping, fishing, hiking or simply enjoying the great outdoors with family and friends. It urges the country to focus on protecting the environment, visiting national parks and supporting local farmers. This June, embrace Great Outdoors Month with the vigor of Theodore Roosevelt and get out and camp, hike, fish, or bike – simply enjoy the outdoors! ■ by Annie Colletti

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

THIS MONTH, WE CHATTED WITH...

DOLLY PARTON

uite simply, Tennessee native Dolly Parton is an American icon. Along with being a highly popular and successful singer, songwriter, entertainer, and actress, she also lends her name and devotion to Pigeon Forge’s famed Dollywood theme park destination (www.dollywood.com). From hit songs like “I Will Always Love You” and “Here You Come Again” to the big screen with the likes of “9 to 5” (also a hit song) and “Joyful Noise,” Dolly remains a beloved American figure from coast to coast. The fourth of 12 children, Dolly was a child star. When she was just 13, she performed at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, which is where she first met Johnny Cash—who encouraged her to follow her own instincts regarding her performing and songwriting career. Dolly has written more than 3,000 songs and several books, including Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business and Dream More: Celebrate the Dreamer in You. She married Carl Thomas Dean in 1966. Dolly and Carl enjoy the anonymity of travelling by RV whenever possible, so TrailBlazer caught up with her about life on the road while she was back home in Tennessee for the annual March opening of Dollywood.

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

All photos courtesy Dollywood Publicity

WHETHER YOU SPEND LIFE ON THE ROAD FOR PLEASURE OR WORK, IT’S NICE TO HAVE THE COMFORTS OF HOME AS YOU TRAVEL THE HIGHWAYS AND BYWAYS. TRAILBLAZER CHECKS IN WITH FOLKS WHO SPEND A FAIR AMOUNT OF TIME ON THE ROAD TO SEE JUST WHAT MAKES THEIR HOME AWAY FROM HOME.

What’s your favorite thing about staying in your RV versus a hotel room? My husband and I have always enjoyed having a little camper. We get out and take our little RV through the country. We have a home out on the west coast, in L.A., and I also have an RV there—the same one, the same type [as the one they keep in Tennessee]. So we ride up and down the coast in California. We’re set on both coasts. When we get out there, we get in that little camper and just go everywhere. If we want to stop on a river bank and take a nap or have a picnic [we do it]. What are your three favorite things onboard? I just love everything about having an RV. It’s like a tiny miniature house. We both love it. It’s just perfect for the two of us. We have to be self-sufficient for obvious reasons. It’s the whole reason we’re out in our RV. I love my microwave—I like to bring popcorn. I like my refrigerator. But I love, love, love having my own little private bathroom. I can’t very well just stop at a service station—being a celebrity and all, somebody would just follow me in! I also love having the little bed in the back. What are a few favorite destinations? We love touring Tennessee. We find all these little out-ofthe-way places.

We love Chattanooga. We got married a few miles away in Ringgold, Georgia. Every single year we go down on or around our anniversary in Ringgold and then we spend time in Chattanooga. We love the scenery in Chattanooga. It’s one of our favorite places. We [also] go to Asheville a lot. What shouldn’t people miss at Dollywood and Pigeon Forge? They shouldn’t miss Dollywood and Pigeon Forge, period. They should make it a point to come to Pigeon Forge. All the great food. All the great music. All the great rides. Gatlinburg’s wonderful and Sevierville’s great. This whole area is wonderful. Highways or scenic routes? We take backroads as much as we can because that’s one of the reasons we have the RV. We always take the old highways. We hate the interstate! We love the two lanes. Ours is small enough that my husband says he enjoys driving it. He says it’s not much different than driving a truck or SUV. I sit up front with him. I’ve always loved my bus—my tour bus is great—but you’ve always got another driver and you can’t just sit up front with them, so I spend most of my time in the bus in the back. I miss all the front view of any travelling. In my little RV, I love sitting up front with my husband.

What’s your favorite meal to enjoy onboard or on the road? My favorite meal is [at] any fast food restaurant. We love that. We love ‘em all! We love Colonel Sanders, of course. We love Taco Bell. We stop at all the IN-N-Out Burgers! n by Lynn Seldon

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

GLOBAL NOBLE

efore Global and Dean take on another continent, we thought we’d do a recap of where they’ve been so far and what they’ve encountered. Remember – the trip was originally planned to last 15 months and stretched into 37 months. If you’ve been following the adventures of Noble and Dean, you know that they left California on January 25, 1959. Fast forward to September 11, 1959, and they are just landing in South Africa. That’s almost 7.5 months spent travelling through Mexico and South America. Their original plan was to cover that ground in only 3 months. Why so slow? “Because we had real unplanned adventures all over the Americas with unintended consequences,” said Noble. “All of which slowed us down.” Here’s a recap of the last 7+ months of the initial leg of the journey. VEHICULAR TROUBLE Armed with “an unbeatable spirit,” Noble and Dean leave California, unaware that because of the overload of the Roadrunner there would be issues galore in the months to come. There was an inkling in Phoenix (still in the good old USA) when they reversed the spring shackles to allow two additional inches of clearance. On their way to the Panama Canal, after being granted “the keys to the kingdom,” which would allow them access to portions of the road beyond the locked gates of the “still under construction” Pan American Highway, the Jeep got stuck in the mud and required a D-9 Caterpillar tracker to pull them out, which resulted in a punctured radiator. That episode found Noble flying back to a waiting (and bird watching) Dean while holding the new radiator out the window of a Cessna 172 operated by a Christian Missionary Group. In Ecuador, the Jeep became stuck in the tundra of the Cotopaxi volcano. There they had the good fortune to have the assistance of the Club Alpinista to help dig them out. And then, on the downhill journey from Quito to the coast at Guayaquil, the poor quality gasoline did a number on the pistons resulting in a visit to the local Jeep dealer, causing a three day delay. In Chile, the combination of the rugged roads and the overload of the Jeep caused a cracked front axle, whereupon the welder repairing the crack torched the brake hose, unbeknownst to Dean and Noble. This resulted in major issues with the brakes, causing a swerve off a rutty road thereby breaking the axle completely. Another near-collision with a steel truck caused them to roll down an embankment, toppling the contents of 30

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the Jeep around the interior and after clean-up and righting of the Jeep, they hit the road only to have the right front wheel break, sending Noble off in search of repairs and leaving Dean behind to watch the Jeep and all its possessions, and as many birds as he could. In their attempt to cross the Rio Parana in Brazil, the Jeep almost went under but was saved thanks to the band of army recruits that happened to be jogging on the river’s embankment. And then, as they boarded the Boissevain in Rio de Janiero for the crossing to Cape Town, being on pins and needles as they watched the Jeep hoisted on the ship for the crossing. A CAST OF CHARACTERS From the hitchhiker turned camera thief in Mexico to the English history scholar aboard the Boissevain, Dean and Noble met up with a cast of characters that made their adventure even more worthy of being the great story that it is. Remember Panama’s Minister of the Interior who refused to believe that Dean and Noble had made it from San Jose on their own power and then, after verifying the story with the gatekeepers, offered his hand in congratulations? Or Noble’s brush with the Colombian Intelligencia who questioned their “good will mission” but allowed him to go only after Noble produced the letter from Dr. Rufus B. von KleinSmid, creating a common bond since two young people from Tunja were currently studying at USC, where von KleinSmid was president? Or the good fortune to have met the president of the National Bank of Ecuador, Mr. Jacque Bermeo, who later turned out to be the president of the Club Alpinista, the team who dug the Jeep out of the tundra? Or Joe, their Brazilian friend who arranged for the vessel to transport the Jeep across the Rio Parana? Certainly a cast of characters - some were lucky coincidences that changed the course of things and some were just pure enjoyment. So, what awaits in Cape Town, and for that matter, the rest of the trek? After all, we’ve got roughly another 30 months of adventure remaining. Find out in our July issue. ■

CIRCLE NO. 159 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

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B L A Z I L

E R

T R A

RTORAD IP

A TASTE OF THE TOP 2013

FARMERS’ MARKETS

he movement for buying, cooking, and eating fresh food grown locally means farmers’ markets are better than ever across the country. Thus, it’s easy to find a farmers’ market, buy what’s fresh, and prepare tasty meals back at your campsite. “The farmers’ market movement is booming across the country, which means you can pretty much find one anywhere you travel,” says Amelia Saltsman, author of The Santa Monica Farmers’ Market Cookbook. “I love cooking on the road. My favorite way to get a feel for the area I’m in is to visit a local farmers’ market. I immediately get a sense of the flavors and colors of a place. When it comes to picking up supplies for picnics or meals on the road, I can’t do better than the fresh ingredients offered by local farmers.”

By Lynn & Cele Seldon

Not only are locals and travelers shopping at farmers’ markets and then preparing their purchases, many chefs are also frequenting the markets in search of fresh fare for their menus. That means the bounty of farmers’ markets can be enjoyed at many restaurants as well. “There’s an excitement about a farmers’ market, because all these people are there for the same reason—they want highquality food,” says Kevin Nashan of Sidney Street Café in St. Louis. “I love seeing other chefs there and it’s also fun to see my customers there too.” Though there are hundreds of farmers’ markets across the country on any given day, here is a selection of top farmers’ markets from Portland, Maine, to Portland, Oregon.

Shopping locally at the French Broad Farmers’ Tailgate Market Asheville, NC. Photo by Lynn Seldon 32

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Portland, Maine

www.portlandmainefarmersmarket.org

Founded back in 1768, everything at the Portland Farmers’ Market is grown and produced in the state of Maine. It’s generally held on Wednesdays and Saturdays year-round. Like many farmers’ markets, and depending on the location and time of year, visitors might find local vegetables and fruits, herbs, meat, eggs, cheese, milk, cider, honey, grains, bread, jams, fermented foods (like sauerkraut, kimchi, and tempeh), flowers, plants, and more.

Montpelier, Vermont

www.montpelierfarmersmarket.com

The Capital City Farmers Market is held in downtown Montpelier on Saturdays year-round (indoors from December to April). In-season possibilities include produce, meats, cheese, goat and cow milk, honey, maple syrup, mushrooms, wild edibles, baked and prepared goods, plants, crafts, and more. There’s a special Thanksgiving Farmers Market at Montpelier High School on the Saturday before Thanksgiving.

Boston, Massachusetts

www.bostonpublicmarket.org

Boston Mayor Thomas Menino envisioned many neighborhood markets selling local food and Bean Town has seen the number of farmers’ markets double to more than two dozen in less than a decade. Among many great possibilities throughout the week and weekend, the Boston Public Market currently features a duo of seasonal markets: City Hall Plaza (Mondays and Wednesdays) and Dewey Square (Tuesdays and Thursdays). This market will have permanent new digs on the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway in 2015.

New York, New York

www.grownyc.org/greenmarket

Manhattan has many great farmers’ markets, but Union Square Greenmarket remains a favorite with locals and visitors alike. It was founded with just a handful of farmers in 1976 and has grown to include 140 regional farmers, fisherman, and bakers during peak season. It’s year-round and is now held on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. It’s part of the Greenmarket Farmers Market network, which now includes more than 50 outdoor farmers’ markets to make it the largest network of urban farmers’ markets in the world, with 200-plus farming families and fisherman and more than 30,000 acres of farmland protected from development.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania www.readingterminalmarket.org

Since 1893, Reading Terminal Market has been the place to find it fresh and local every day. Philadelphia’s historic farmers’ market is a classic, with a huge selection of meats and seafood, produce fresh from the field, Amish specialties (Amish vendors aren’t open on Sundays), ethnic foods, eclectic restaurants, and more. The Pennsylvania General Store and Dutch Eating Place are among many long-time favorites. JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Washington, District of Columbia www.freshfarmmarkets.org

Famed Dupont Circle Freshfare is part of the FRESHFARM Markets group of farmers’ markets in the Washington, DC metropolitan region. Held year-round every Sunday, it features more than 40 folks offering fruits and vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, cheeses, breads, fruit pies, fresh pasta, flowers, plants, and much more. The “Chef at Market” program lures renowned chefs for tastings, demonstrations, market tours, and book signings. FRESHFARM has several other farmers’ markets in the city and there’s also Eastern Market (www.easternmarket-dc.org), and revitalized Union Market (www. unionmarketdc.com), with fresh oysters from Rappahannock Oyster Co. (www.rroysters. com) and fresh lamb from Border Springs Farm (www.borderspringsfarm.com), which is also sold Thursdays at FRESHFARM Market at Penn Quarter.

Richmond, Virginia www.sojmarket.com

As one of America’s oldest public markets, the capital city of the Old Dominion still features the historic 17th Street Farmers Market in Shockoe Bottom on Saturdays and Sundays (www.richmondgov.com/ farmersmarket). However, it’s Richmond’s South of the James Market that’s now making history as an open-air producer-only farmers’ market featuring locally-grown and hand-made items. Situated just south of the James River in Forest Hill Park, it’s the place to see, be seen, and purchasing almost every Saturday of the year.

Wilmington, North Carolina

www.wilmingtondowntown.com/farmers-market

Situated right on the Cape Fear River in historic downtown Wilmington, the Riverfront Farmers’ Market is held on almost every Saturday from spring to fall (except for Azalea Festival and Riverfest weekends). Featuring views across the river to the Battleship USS North Carolina, the popular market also features fresh seafood straight from the Atlantic.

Raleigh, North Carolina www.ncagr.gov

Just off I-40, the sprawling Raleigh Farmers Market is one of five regional farmers’ markets owned by the state of North Carolina and operated by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Service. Open seven days a week, highlights include the Farmers Building; Market Shoppes; the drive-through Truckers Building; Market Imports; the Wholesale Terminal; and three restaurants (the State Farmers Market Restaurant features country cooking for breakfast and lunch). Other state farmers’ markets can be found in Lumberton (near I-95), the Piedmont-Triad (near Greenville), Charlotte, and Asheville (see below).

Winston-Salem, North Carolina www.oldsalem.org

The Old Salem Cobblestone Farmers Market brings sustainable agriculture back into the heart of the city and restores a tradition established in historic Salem more than 200 years ago. The producers-only market is held on Saturdays and features lots of fruits, vegetables, herbs, meats, eggs, cheeses, breads, and more from the surrounding countryside. Border Springs Farm (see Washington, DC) also sells their fresh lamb at this market.

Asheville, North Carolina www.appalachiangrown.org

The western North Carolina mountain town of Asheville is home to more than a dozen 34

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active “tailgate markets,” where many farmers sell their wares right off their trucks’ tailgates. Of course, there are more traditional stalls and stands as well, but the varied opening days and locations make tailgate shopping for fresh food in and around Asheville easy to accomplish— and eat. Known for farm-to-table fare (make that tailgate-to-table), many Asheville-area chefs, like John Stehling at beloved Early Girl Eatery (www.earlygirleatery.com) and Katie Button at super-hot Curate (www.curatetapasbar.com), can often be spotted shopping at tailgate markets.

Charleston, South Carolina

www.charlestonfarmersmarket.com

Open from mid-April well into December, the Charleston Farmers Market in Marion Square is historic Charleston’s gathering spot for foodies and chefs come most Saturdays (and select Sundays). Established by beloved long-time Mayor Joe Riley in 1989, it features produce and much more from throughout the Lowcountry. Fittingly located on Market Street just down Meeting Street from Marion Square, the renovated and revitalized historic Charleston City Market (www. thecharlestoncitymarket.com) features famed sweetgrass baskets and several food vendors, like Food for the Southern Soul (www. foodforthesouthernsoul.com). To see how the pros use what they find at the markets, head to McCrady’s (www.mccradysrestaurant.com) and Husk (www.huskrestaurant.com).

Columbia, South Carolina www.scstatefarmersmarket.com www.sodacitysc.com

The new state-of-the-art South Carolina State Farmers Market on Columbia’s outskirts opened in 2010 to rave reviews. It showcases the “Certified SC Grown” program seven days a week. Judy’s At The Market restaurant also highlights the state’s famed fare. Alternatively, Soda City Market downtown on Main Street bustles every Saturday morning year-round, including don’t-miss grits from Anson Mills (www.ansonmills.com) and heirloom pork from Caw Caw Creek (www.cawcawcreek.com).

Greenville, South Carolina www.saturdaymarketlive.com

Held from May to October, the TD Saturday Market right on Greenville’s revitalized Main Street provides a perfect example of a successful downtown farmers’ market. Chefs, loyal locals, and lots of visitors comingle along several blocks of fresh fare that’s heading from the farm to the table at home, in an RV, or at nearby restaurants like Soby’s (www.table301.com) and Roost (www.roostrestaurant.com).

Gainesville, Florida www.441market.com

Central Florida has lots of sprawling farms, so it makes sense that there would be several farmers’ markets in the Sunshine State. Founded in 1972, Gainesville’s Alachua County Farmers’ market on US 441 is north central Florida’s original growers market. It’s open every Saturday morning year-round with lots of Florida-produced options and special events (like July’s Chile Pepper Festival).

Ocala, Florida

www.ocalafarmmarket.com

Situated downtown on Ocala Square on Saturdays, the Ocala Farm JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Market is a great place to head for a small town Florida farmers’ market. Many locals and visitors make a day of it by catching a movie or staying for lunch at a local foodie favorite like nearby La Cuisine. (www.lacuisineocala.com).

Chattanooga, Tennessee www.chattanoogamarket.com

Founded in 2001, the Chattanooga Market is held every Sunday from spring to fall. It features more than 50 farms and 125 artisans, free music (two live shows weekly), popular food trucks and other eateries, cooking demos and tastings, and a full calendar of special events and festivals (like the Beast Feast Barbecue Festival). Sister seasonal markets include the Chattanooga River Market, Ringgold Market, and the popular Holiday Market.

Flint, Michigan

www.flintfarmersmarket.com

Open year-round on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, the Flint Farmers’ Market features more than 25 vendors inside and another 50 more outside from May to October. Highlights include a meat market, baked goods, poultry, in-season produce, a wine shop, an art gallery, deli, café, ethnic specialties, lots of chefs, music, and more. In 2014, the market will be moving back downtown (into an old Flint Journal printing facility) after 70 years in the suburbs.

Chicago, Illinois

www.greencitymarket.org

Focusing on sustainable farming and food, the Windy City’s famed Green City Market is outdoors in the south end of Lincoln Park every Wednesday and Saturday from spring to fall. There’s also an indoor “winter” version on Saturdays in the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. Alice Waters, a pioneer in the local and organic food movement, called Green City Market, “The best sustainable market in the country.”

Madison, Wisconsin

www.madisonfarmersmarket.com

From April to November, the Madison Farmers Market typically brings together nearly 200 friendly folks selling their freshly-grown fare. It’s very likely that whatever you buy was grown or produced by the person selling it. Like many farmers’ markets across the country, there’s also live music and lots of special events.

San Antonio, Texas

www.pearlfarmersmarket.com

Pearl Brewery (www.atpearl.com) has become a culinary and cultural destination and Saturday’s year-round Pearl Farmers Market is a part of that success. This producers-only market features vendors located within 150 miles of San Antonio. Pearl Brewery’s dining, imbibing, and entertainment options are also enhanced by the presence of the Culinary Institute of America San Antonio (www.ciachef.org), including intriguing classes for consumers and Latin-leaning Nao Restaurant.

Austin, Texas

www.sfcfarmersmarket.org www.texasfarmersmarket.org

Austin’s SFC Farmers’ Market actually features four locations: 36

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Downtown (Saturdays); Sunset Valley (Saturdays); The Triangle (Wednesdays); and East Austin (Tuesdays). With 100-plus growers and other vendors, it’s the largest certified growers-only farmers’ market in the state. It’s a project of the Sustainable Food Center (SFC) and sustainability is at its heart. The Texas Farmers’ Market has two possibilities: Cedar Park Market (in nearby Cedar Park on Saturdays) and Mueller Market (at the historic Browning Hangar on Sundays).

Santa Fe, New Mexico

www.santafefarmersmarket.com

The Santa Fe Farmers Market is a special place every weekend, with a farmers’ market proper every Saturday, an artisan market on Sundays, and varied shops open on both weekend days. Fresh local produce, eggs, cheese, baked goods, meats, and more are all found at this market.

Tucson, Arizona

www.farmersmarkettucson.com

The Tucson Farmers’ Markets features three year-round urban markets with more than 100 vendors with deep Southwest Arizona and Santa Cruz Valley roots. Locations are; Jesse Owens Park (Fridays); Oro Valley (Saturdays); and St. Philip’s Plaza (Sundays). Visitors shopping for supper will find farmers and producers with produce, meat, and much more.

Santa Monica, California

www.smgov.net/portals/farmersmarket

“The Santa Monica Farmers’ Market is one of the largest in the country—four locations, 52 weeks a year, and grower-focused,” says Amelia Saltsman, author of The Santa Monica Farmers’ Market Cookbook. Saltsman says the markets offer amazing California fruits, vegetables, cheeses, meats, and dairy products. “Even if you simply visit and sample, you will have an incredible taste of southern California,” she adds.

San Francisco, California

www.ferrybuildingmarketplace.com

The bustling Ferry Plaza Farmers Market is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. On any of these days—and especially on Saturdays—many of the Bay Area’s most famous chefs and farmers can be found at the market. Saturday is the busiest day, with market stands both in front of and behind the Ferry Building, overlooking the Bay.

Seattle, Washington

www.pikeplacemarket.org www.seattlefarmersmarkets.org

Of course, famed Pike Place Market is known for flying fish and lots of fresh seafood, but there are also lots of farmers and other producers selling produce, meats, cheese, baked goods, and much more. The city also features more than a half-dozen neighborhood markets, including Columbia City (Wednesdays spring to fall), the University District (Saturdays year-round), and West Seattle (Sundays year-round).

Portland, Oregon

www.portlandfarmersmarket.org

The Pacific Coast’s Portland features the Portland Farmers Market and it’s famous for good reason. Founded in 1992, and now with six sites and more than 250 vendors, the main spring to fall Saturday market is on the grounds of Portland State University. There are other seasonal city markets somewhere in Portland every day of the week. n JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Celebrating our national parks

ew places can compete with the grace and grandeur of America’s national parks. From the Grand Canyon to the Great Smoky Mountains, these treasured destinations protect our country’s most scenic wonders and precious wildlife. Fun and affordable, national parks are also an attractive option for families who want to stretch their vacation dollars in a tight economy. According to the National Park Service, visitation to the national parks is up. In 2012, more than 282 million people visited America’s national parks, an increase of more than 3 million over 2011. It was the sixth highest annual visitation in the history of the National Park Service. All together, about 400 parks are in the national parks system. But, only 59 are designed “national parks.” The other parks are categorized as National Monuments, National Preserves, National Seashores or National Recreation Areas. Unfortunately, the 59 national parks aren’t spread evenly over the country. Compared to the Western states, the Eastern states seem a bit under represented. In fact, only 27 states have national parks. California has the most with nine, followed by Alaska with eight, Utah with five, and Colorado with four. There are even national parks in the American territory of Samoa and the U.S. Virgin Islands. If you plan to visit more than one national park within a year, look into purchasing an “America the Beautiful National Park and Federal Recreation Land Pass” for $80 which allows you and up to three other adults (over age 16) admission into all parks. Keep in mind, parking and camping will cost extra. If you are 62 or older, the Senior Pass is $10 and permits access to all the parks, as does the Access Pass, which is free for those with disabilities. Both of these passes also offer 50 percent off the use of park facilities and services. You can purchase these passes at any national park or online at www.nps. gov. Here are a few interesting facts and some surprising tidbits about our national parks.

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZERBackground Photo: Redwood National Park

he United States was the first country in the world to establish a national park system. It began with Yellowstone, which was established by President Ulysses S. Grant on March 1, 1872. The idea caught on in countries around the world. Today, more than 100 countries have national parks or reserves. The most notable feature of Yellowstone are its geysers and hot springs, which are dotted throughout the park. The most popular is Old Faithful, which is a must-see for every park visitors. Most folks know Yellowstone is in Wyoming, but sections of the park spill over into Montana and Idaho.

Yellowstone National Park

Today, Yellowstone National Park is known as the American Serengeti because of its sprawling landscape and rich wildlife. Approximately 67 different mammal species call the 2.2-million acre park homeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the largest concentration in the Lower 48 states. The mountainous park is home to grizzly bears, wolves, and herds of bison and elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, coyotes, wolverines, mountain lions, bald eagles, and pronghorn. Gray wolves were reintroduced in 1995, after a near 70-year absence.

Pinnacles National Park www.dylanstours.com

innacles National Park in California was redesignated in 2013 from its National Monument status to that of National Park. The parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s impressive monoliths, spires, and sheer-canyon walls were shaped by ancient volcanic activity. People come to Pinnacles to hike, rock climb, explore caverns and watch wildlife, especially the endangered California condor, which is the largest land bird in North America. In the spring a multitude of colorful wildflowers blanket the hills. JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

ot surprisingly, the four largest national parks are found in Alaska. Wrangell– St. Elias National Park is the biggest, encompassing 13 million acres, which is the size of six Yellowstones! In an area known as the “mountain kingdom of North America,” four mountain ranges converge on the park, where you’ll find nine of the 16 tallest peaks in the U.S. It is a vast expanse of wilderness with few services and few paved roads. It’s ideal for backpacking, hiking, camping, hunting, fishing and mountaineering. For any backcountry travel, however, you will need a good compass and mapreading skills or better yet, a seasoned guide! Travelers should be prepared for unpredictable weather, hazardous stream crossings and encounters with black and grizzly bears.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park Photo courtesy www.nps.gov

Hot Springs National Park Photo courtesy www.nps.gov

t only 5,549 acres, Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas is the smallest national park. Tucked in the low-lying Ouachita Mountains, the park is home to 47 natural hot springs. Unlike other hot springs, however, the mineral water here lacks the typical odiferous sulfur smell. The park’s heyday was during the early 1900s when people traveled from all over to soak in and drink the mineral waters of the park, believing it had medicinal values and could cure illnesses. Today, people come to enjoy the beautiful 26 miles of trails and to be pampered in bathhouses. On Bathhouse Row, you’ll find two bathhouses -- the Buckstaff Bathhouse, which is a more traditional bathhouse, and the Quapaw Baths and Spa, which offers a modern spa experience. Unfortunately, one of the park’s most popular attractions, the beautiful old Fordyce Bathhouse (which also served as the park’s visitor center and museum), is closed until October 2013 for maintenance. A temporary Visitor Center, along with the park store, is found in the old Lamar Bathhouse at the south end of Bathhouse Row. 40

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Background Photo: Great Smoky Mountains

f you want solitude, Lake Clark National Park in Alaska typically has the fewest visitors. A little over 5,000 people visited this national park just outside Anchorage in 2011. Usage, however, jumped to 11,000 in 2012. This remote wilderness is accessible on by aircraft and a scenic mix of looming peaks, sapphire-color lakes and rushing rivers. The national park is noted for being the home of Dick Proenneke’s cabin on upper Twin Lake. Proenneke built his cabin using only handmade tools in 1968, and his life in the Alaskan wilderness was featured in a popular series on PBS. In the Lower 48, Isle Royale National Park has the fewest visitors. This island gem in Lake Superior only receives about 15,000 to 16,000 visitors a year. It’s Michigan’s only national park, and it encompasses an archipelago of about 400 small islands. The largest island is 9 miles wide by 45 miles long and is accessible only by boat or seaplane. In the summer months, public ferry’s transport hikers and backpackers who come to explore the island and escape city life. Interestingly, it is the only known place where wolves and moose live together without bears.

Lake Clark National Park Photo courtesy www.nps.gov

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

he Great Smoky M o u n t a i n s National Park, with over nine million visitors in 2012, is the most visited park. Travelers come to enjoy its spruce and fir forests, wildflowers, cascading streams, roaring falls and spectacular wildlife. Stretching between North Carolina and Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains are crisscrossed with over 800 miles of trails, including the famous Appalachian Trail, which cuts through the park. You’ll find evening campfire programs, guided hikes, history demonstrations, and other ranger-led programs from June through October. The Smokies are one of the few places remaining in the eastern United States where black bears live in wild, natural surroundings. Some 1,500 black bears live in the park, and a reintroduction of elk began in 2001. Other animals successfully reintroduced to the park include river otters and barn owls. Since much of the park is blanketed in dense forest, your best bets to view wildlife are in open areas such as Cades Cove and Cataloochee.

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

ucked along the U.S. and Canadian border in Montana, Glacier National Park is a backpacking paradise. The park is home to about 25 glaciers and is consistently ranked as one of the most popular backpacking parks in the national park system. Famous for its towering mountains, pristine alpine lakes, abundant wildlife, and its 700+ miles of trails, this mountainous mecca is growing in popularity each year. The park, which sits on the Continental Divide in the Rocky Mountain Range, borders Canada’s Waterton Lakes National Park, and the two are designated an International Peace Park, Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site. Bring binoculars to look for foraging bears, mountain lions, gray wolves, mountain goats, bald eagles, moose, beavers, otters and big horn sheep.

Denali National Park Photo courtesy www.nps.gov

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Glacier National Park

e n a l i National Park is home to North America’s tallest peak, Mount McKinley, named after our country’s 25th president, W i l l i a m McKinley. Alaskans, however, prefer to call the mountain Denali, meaning the “High One.” This summer the park, which is located about 125 miles south of Fairbanks, will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the first known ascent of the mountain. Visitors can see a new exhibit about the climb, “First Ascent of Denali 1913-2013,” at the Eielson Visitor Center from June 1 to September 16. A summer speaker series on pioneers and other significant climbs of Mount McKinley will take place at the Denali Visitor Center from June to August. Bus tours through the park offer a chance to see moose, Dall sheep, wolves and grizzlies, which are common in the park’s six million acres. There are also river boat tours on a sternwheeler and sled-dog demonstrations. Denali is the only national park where rangers use sled dogs to patrol the park.

Background Photo: Glacier National Park

ometimes cars and bikes don’t share the road well. Especially when everyone is looking at the scenery and not the road. A few national parks, however, have dedicated trails for biking such as Redwood National Park in Northern California. Described as a giant cathedral, Redwood National Park delivers a surreal mountain biking experience. Surrounded by 2,000-year-old redwoods, the graveled trails invite you to slow down and savor the beauty of the forest. The park has six mountain Redwood National Park www.xola.com biking trails to choose from: the Last Chance and Gold Bluffs Beach sections of the Coastal Trail, Davison Road Trail, Little Bald Hills Trail, Lost Man Creek Trail, and Ossagon Trail Loop. Bikers of all abilities should do well on any of these trails. In the Great Smoky Mountains, the park management encourages biking on the Cades Cove Loop Road by closing it to automobile traffic on Wednesday and Saturday mornings until 10 a.m., from May to September. At Acadia National Park in Maine the oldfashioned carriage roads are also great for biking.

Mesa Verde National Park Courtesy National Park Service/Martha Smith

ocated in Colorado, the Mesa Verde National Park is best known for its spectacular historic dwellings built within the cliffs by the ancient Pueblo people. Five cliff dwellings are open to the public. One of the park’s most popular destinations is Cliff Palace, which is thought to be the largest cliff dwelling in North America. You can join a one-hour ranger-guided tour into this large and complex archeological site, which was built and occupied from approximately AD 1190 to 1280. You’ll descend uneven stone steps and climb five ladders for a 100-foot vertical climb. Total walking distance is about a quarter of a mile. Cliff Palace, Balcony House and Long House can only be entered on a ranger-guided tour. Spruce Tree House and Step House can be explored on your own. Tickets for tours are acquired at the new Visitor and Research Center, which just opened in December 2012. Sunken pirate ships, Civil War history and an old fort create an air of mystery at Dry Tortugas National Park. Seventy miles west

of Key West, Florida, the Dry Tortugas is one of the most remote parks in the national park system. The park includes a group of seven islands, spread over 100 square miles. It got its name from the island’s lack of fresh surface water (so it’s dry) and because Ponce de Leon caught a lot of sea turtles (or tortugas) on the islands in the 1500s. Scuba diving and snorkeling are popular activities as many wrecks and patch reefs lie in relatively shallow water and are easy to access. Others come to tour the historic Fort Jefferson. Ferries and seaplanes offer daily round trips to the park.

To find out more about any of the national parks visit www.nps. gov. Be sure to read the updates for each park as some park services have been affected by the government sequester. n JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

MEMBER DEALS

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MEMBER DEALS

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CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ACROSS 1 Relative pronoun 4 Melville’s captain 8 Open 12 Computer chip 13 Calif. wine country 14 City slicker 15 Presidential nickname 16 Mock 17 Verbal 18 Point 20 Endearment 22 Belch 25 Cymry 28 Port. lady 31 Hence 33 Honey-eater bird 34 Guido’s note (2 words) 35 Grandfather of Saul 36 Dallas sch. 37 Month abbr. 38 Orient 39 Asterisk 40 Black (Sp.) 42 Appoint 44 Sharpen 46 Covered by water 50 Night (Fr.) 52 Ivory (Lat.) 55 Certified Public Accountant (abbr.) 56 She (Sp.) 57 Oleaginous 58 Energy unit 59 Liang 60 Italian lake 61 Poem

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DOWN 1 Cloak 2 Ryukyu islands viper 3 Foretoken 4 Fr. historical provinces 5 Have (Scot.) 6 Imitate 7 Pointed remark 8 Unburnt brick 9 Venire (2 words) 10 Amer. Dental Assn. (abbr.) 11 Electric reluctance unit 19 To be announced (abbr.) 21 Absent without leave (abbr.) 23 Midianite king 24 Light refractor 26 Muttonfish 27 Time period 28 University officer 29 Gr. leather flask 30 Water pipe 32 Jap. clogs 35 Time period 39 Mend 41 Of wheels 43 Kernel (pref.) 45 Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (abbr.) 47 Pointed (pref.) 48 Nail with a hole 49 Geological vein angle 50 Ensnare 51 Diminutive (suf.) 53 Life (pref.) 54 City on the Danube

RETAILER DISCOUNTS

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

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

MEMBER DEALS

MyRVMarket.com - RV Parts, Accessories and TT Gear - 10% off all your purchases for the first year! Get all of your RV supplies and Lifestyle products all in one great store at an affordable price. Sign in as a Travelers Club Member and get additional savings with travel and special promotions all year. NationalPetPharmacy.com - Trusted by veterinarians and pet lovers alike, NationalPetPharmacy.com is fully licensed and Vet-VIPPS certified for safety as well as quality. Our FDA/EPA approved pet meds are the same ones you get from your vet – but conveniently delivered to your door. Thousand Trails members save $5 on a $20 order with Discount Code: BLAZER5 PetFoodDirect.com - 15% off your order of $49 or more. Get all your pet’s food and supplies delivered to your door with PetFoodDirect.com’s Auto Ship program. This coupon is valid on everything in our store, except: vet diet foods, prescription and free shipping items, and gift certificates. One time use per customer. Only one promotion code can be applied per order. Not for use with any loyalty or other reward websites. Discount Code: BLAZER15 Rand McNally Visit www.randmcnally.com/ELS for special GPS discount for TT members.

Terms and Conditions for 2013 Referral Promotion Terms and Conditions: For each Eligible Referral (as defined), you will receive a $25 American Express gift card. In addition, for each Eligible Referral, you will receive one entry in a drawing for the following prizes: (i) Grand Prize is either a trip to Hawaii or a 7 night Caribbean Cruise, valued at $4,000, includes roundtrip coach airfare for two adults from the continental United States to either Hawaii or Florida, and hotel/cruise accommodations for 7 nights; (ii) Second Prize is a trip to either Las Vegas, San Francisco or Orlando, valued at $2,000, that includes roundtrip coach airfare for two adults from the continental United States to either Las Vegas, San Francisco or Orlando and hotel accommodations for 4 nights and (iii) ten (10) Third Prizes waiving payment of the winners’ annual dues for 2014, not to exceed $525 each. The trips do not include taxes, meals, beverages, transfers, gratuities, activities and other personal expenses. The drawing will be held at our corporate offices on January 7, 2014. 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, 2013 and December 14, 2013, and (ii) lists you as the referring member. This offer is only for members in good standing of Thousand Trails and its affiliates. Due to legal restrictions, residents of AZ, FL, NV, NY, PA and TN are not eligible to participate in the drawing and you will not receive an entry in the drawing for purchases made by residents of AZ, NV, PA or TN. We reserve the right to extend, modify, suspend, or terminate this promotion at any time for any reason; however, any rewards earned prior to the suspension or termination of this promotion will be honored. Employees of Equity LifeStyle Properties, Inc. and its affiliates are not eligible to participate in this promotion. All local, state and federal income taxes are the responsibility of the recipient. Accordingly, we recommend that all participants consult a tax advisor about reporting rewards for tax purposes. We will issue the required 1099 to each participant and to the IRS when the total value of awards you are eligible to receive equal or exceed $600.00 for one year. This advertising is being used for the purpose of soliciting sales of resort campground memberships. This document has been filed with the Department of Licensing, State of Washington, as required by Washington law. Value, quality, or conditions stated and performance on promises are the responsibility of the operator, not the Department. This filing does not mean that the Department has approved the merits or qualifications of any registration, advertising, or any gift, prize, or item of value as part of any promotional plan. This promotion is sponsored by MHC Thousand Trails Limited Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606. JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

YOUR TECH QUESTIONS, ANSWERED!

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HI, I AM A TOTAL RV NEWBIE. I RECENTLY BOUGHT A ...

... 1978 Class C for $1,000 (which seemed like a great deal since, unlike others at that price, this one ran). I knew nothing about RVs when I bought it, but in the one month I’ve owned it I’ve noticed lots of things that are in need of fixing. The fuel gauge doesn’t work (I’m suspecting wiring at the sending unit), lights don’t work, grey and black water tanks leak (black from where the tank and pipe connect, grey seems to be just not being stopped by the valve as it drizzles out the end of the pipe even when the valve is pushed in), the generator doesn’t appear to work as someone has done a DIY job on electrical wiring and since I haven’t yet plugged in to power not sure if the electricity works. Several of the storage compartments don’t close/lock properly, and all six tires need to be replaced. And that is just stuff I’ve noticed. Would it be “worth it” to fix all this stuff or would I likely be money ahead to invest in something else? Thank you, Audrey Vieira

A: Welcome to the RV world of fix and repair! Buying an older, used motorhome can be risky at best, as parts are often hard to come by or all together nonexistent. There are many problems right out of the gate, and those are only what you have noticed thus far. From what you described, you are looking at a total of approximately $3K4K just to begin with. The generator may not even be repairable due to its age. You didn’t mention if you had the brakes/wheel bearings checked or not, which could add an additional $1500- 2000 just for a brake job. As you can see, the cost of repairs can quickly escalate to an amount that is much higher than what the motorhome will ever be worth. I advise that you sell it while you can and invest the price of repairs into something more reliable. I do not recommend that you buy anything older than 1994 model. Even then, before you buy, spend the money and have a pre-purchase inspection completed so you know ahead of time what you are getting yourself into! Actually, that is how I met my wife, Jenn! Being prudent from the start can often lead to long term enjoyability in many more ways than one. Thanks, Audrey, for taking the time to inquire and follow your good senses before getting too involved with a money pit.

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

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HI BILL AND JENN, WE STAYED FOR SEVERAL ...

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... months at an RV Park that had very hard water. It left water spots on our curved glass shower doors that we cannot remove. We have tried all the glass and bathroom cleaners on the market including CLR and they do not seem to do much good on these spots. We do not want to replace the doors on our 2011 Carriage fifth wheel, but the shower doors look horrible. Do you know of any way to remove or clean the spots off without harming or scratching the doors? We love our home on wheels and would love it to look new again! Thank you, Patty Hunt Santa Paula, CA

A: Hi Patty. Hard water spots can be tough to get rid of. There must be a hundred products out there to choose from and I have tried many of them over the years. Try a product called “Bring It On Cleaner”. You may need to scrub the shower a couple of times but it will be well worth the effort. This product even works great on stainless steel sinks as well. You can find it on the Internet at www.bringitoncleaner.com. Thank you so much!

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BILL, I HOPE YOU CAN HELP. I HAVE TALKED TO ...

... Winnebago, Freightliner, FMCA Coachnet, RV dealer services, etc. The rig I have is a 34-foot, ‘99 Winnebago Adventurer Diesel. The problem seems to be ignition switch related. When the ignition switch is turned on the steps should automatically retract yet they don’t, (resulting in bent steps from hitting a tree stump), the rearview TV camera should come on, it doesn’t. The jack down dash light should come ON, it doesn’t. The dash air flow defaults to the Defrost position. Checked all fuses-- all OK Talked to Winnebago it’s not their problem, the switch is from Freightliner, talked to Freightliner, the engine starts and runs fine so is not the switch, must be a Winnebago relay powered from the switch. There are 2 Bosch relays mounted on the fuse block; I swapped them but no change. Must be more relays somewhere, where? How do I identify them? I hate to pay $130 an hour for some one to “LOOK” for the problem when they don’t seem to know any more about it than I do. It’s a blessing that none of the problems are disabling but they are more than an inconvenience.

Don, I’m not an expert on the Freightliner chassis but I can help, nonetheless. I don’t think the problem is in the switch either. First, the dash air defaulting to defrost is normal if there is a problem with vacuum to the control unit in the dash. Cracked vacuum hoses are a common problem. Remove the control unit from the dash and check for hoses that are cracked or have become loose. It is possible that one of the vacuum control modules is defective –these will need to be tested using a vacuumtesting tool. The rear observation camera gets 12-volt signal when your coach is in reverse, not from ignition. Check at the rear of the monitor for 12-volts when in reverse; do not attempt this by yourself. Have someone hold the brake while testing. Next, check the back of the monitor and/or the fuse block (Winnebago’s) for a fuse. The entry step does receive power from the ignition. Check the yellow wire at the step for 12-volts. If there is not 12-volts, there is either a bad connection or a blown fuse. Check for a step fuse in your manual. The fuse should be an add on by Winnebago. The jack down light may be a ground problem. Check the rear of the light for 12-volt negative and positive. Perhaps it is only a faulty bulb. Next, check the control box for fuses. I believe your jacks are made by HWH. If you give HWH a call, they may be able to help you further with more specific diagnostic assistance. Best of luck!

I am a full-timer using Thousand Trails and the Elks lodges to stay at most of the time. Thank you for any advice you can provide.

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

Don Neuschwander

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HI BILL, WE RECENTLY PURCHASED A 2004 ...

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... Bigfoot on a Ford E450 chassis. The turn signals flash rapidly while the hazard light flashes at a normal speed. We have been told that this is normal for this model. Is this true or not? If not, how would you suggest we remedy it. An RV dealer has checked all bulbs and flashers and is not sure of what the issue is. Thanks John Maddux Yuba City, CA

A: John, this is a common problem when there are too many lights for the flasher, which overloads the flasher making it blink too fast. Your E450 chassis should have been able to handle the load but for some reason it will not. You will need to purchase an electronic flasher that will handle the load. Advanced Auto Parts has what you need (part # ep34.) ■

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Preserve Services Directory* | June 2013 PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY

NORTHWEST OREGON BEND/SUNRIVER | 541-593-8494 Annual/Extended Stay - We still have some open sites available for annual use. Stop worrying about space available in beautiful Bend/Sunriver with your own site and come and enjoy all we have to offer year-round. From skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling in the winter to fishing, hiking and festivals in the summer. Please call Bobbie or Julie at the Preserve. Short-Term Rental - Cabins, cottages and yurts available for rent year-round, call for quote. Special Events - Perfect location for your family reunions, rallies and birthday picnics. Packages are available for renting our winter lodge for that special birthday. The main lodge is available for weddings, banquets and conferences. We also welcome ski clubs and snowmobile clubs. Call Anne or send email to besh@equitylifestyle.com. PACIFIC CITY 503-965-6200 (Preserve Office) 503-965-6442 (Ranger Station) Annual/Extended Stay - No longer a need to move your RV off-site for 1-3 years, plus the flexibility to occupy the unit up to 210 nights without contract use restrictions and then stay longer with reservations. Decorate your preferred site or add a storage shed if desired. Order your new Cavco Cedar Cabin and custom design the interior, select your preferred campsite and schedule delivery. Financing available. Contact Ginny to make an appointment. Special Events - Awesome coastal weather, beach access, clamming, crabbing, beach-combing, professional and friendly service, campsites, rental units and gazebo. We host parties, club rallies, reunions, weddings and retreats for all group outings. A group consists of 4 or more campsites/rentals or any combination thereof. Contact the preserve for more information. On-Site/Dry Storage - Save on gas and take advantage of our RV storage program. $50 for 4 weeks, $300 for 26 weeks or $550 for 52 weeks. Dry storage space is limited. New enhanced dry storage with electric hook up features. SEASIDE 503-738-0626 (Preserve Office) 503-738-5292 (Rentals) Annual/Extended Stay - The Oregon Coast! Enjoy your own personal site for your RV. Home base for full-timers, improved landscape options available, personalize your site – add a storage shed and/or deck. You no longer need to move your RV. Call Christopher or Barry at the preserve. Short-Term Rental - Discounted short-term rentals available for two week and monthly stays. Great rates for Monday-Thursday mid-week stays. Call for our current specials. Our cabins are available all year long. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage for $60 per month. Get two free months with our yearly rate of $600. SOUTH JETTY 541-997-8296 (Preserve Office) 541-997-8333 (Rentals) Annual/Extended Stay - Extended Stay program now available. Use it any 210 days and store your rig year-round. Contact Preserve Manager for details. Short-Term Rental - Yurts, cabins and trailers available to fit your budget. WHALERS REST 541-867-6078 (Preserve Office) 541-867-3100 (Storage) Annual/Extended Stay - Enjoy the beautiful Oregon Coast on your own personal

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

site at Whalers Rest. Leave your rig year-round and occupy up to 210 days per year. Don’t have an RV or want a “vacation home”? We have former vacation rental trailers available for purchase and placement in the personal site program. Call Denise or Shari at the preserve for more information. Special Events - Beautiful setting on the central Oregon coast, 18 rental units, including two new cabins and a very large garden home. Large meeting area and kitchen facilities. Parties and meetings of all sizes. Call preserve for details. SuperHost not available June 15-Sept. 15. WASHINGTON BIRCH BAY | 360-371-7432 Annual/Extended Stay - Play by the bay longer with stays beyond your membership days and enjoy the sun, not the grays, at Birch Bay. Space may still be available for your Personal Site. Purchase a vacation home, while they last, or bring your own. Monthly stays limited and also available at just $450 month, plus utilities. Come experience the beauty of the true Northwest. Contract Chandra at the preserve. CHEHALIS | 360-262-9489 Annual/Extended Stay - Enjoy your own year-round private site in beautiful Chehalis. There’s no need to move your RV off-site. You can occupy your site for 210 days without reservations and then stay longer with reservations. Contract Brenda Roza for an appointment. Short-Term Rental - We have monthly rentals for 1-4 months for $475 per month, plus utilities. We also have rental cabins and trailers offering daily and weekly rates. Special Events - Perfect venue for your family reunion, church campout, picnic, party, school event or retreat. Rental units, RV sites, picnic areas, catering, day-use activities and amenities can be all yours with our SuperHost program. Our lodge is available off-season for weddings, banquets, parties, retreats, or conferences. Call preserve or send email chba@equitylifestyle.com. On-Site/Dry Storage - Storage: $45 per month or $180 for 6 months. Call Ranger Don. GRANDY CREEK | 360-826-3554 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual site available! $1,950; please call the preserve for details. Short-Term Rental - Monthly sites available. Call preserve for details. On-Site/Dry Storage - $40 per month, space is limited. LA CONNER | 360-466-3112 Annual/Extended Stay - Your very own site on our beautiful resort is waiting for you. Spend your free time on the Skagit Bay, walking on the beach, photographing the resident Bald Eagles, and relaxing in our spa. We have limited sites available so hurry. Our Annual Program now has 210-day usage. Please call Nancy or Matthew at the preserve. Short-Term Rental - Leave your RV at home and come stay in our comfortable Panabode Cedar Cabins. Full kitchen, sleeps 6. Call preserve to make reservations. Please call Nancy or Matthew at the preserve. LEAVENWORTH 509-763-2020 | 800-353-1700 Short-Term Rental - A snowmobiler’s paradise, we receive an average of 10 feet of snow annually. Just across from our preserve we have access to over 200 miles of snowmobile trails. We have rentals that include a Log House that sleeps 24, a Chalet that sleeps 8, four cabins that sleep 4 to 5 and four lodge rooms that sleep four, plus our RV sites In our Timber View and Lake View areas.

*Information subject to change

LITTLE DIAMOND | 800-994-6654 Annual/Extended Stay - Spend the summer in beautiful northeastern Washington. Annual and monthly sites available.

LONG BEACH | 360-642-3091 Annual/Extended Stay - Long Beach is only minutes away from the grand Pacific Ocean, surrounded by gorgeous nature and a rich history of pioneers past. Don’t miss out on your chance to have your own place at the beach. You can have your own personal RV site where your rig can stay year-round and you can occupy your rig for 210 days out of that year for the low price of $2,100! No more hassle storing your rig and just think of all the money you will save on gas. We are also introducing a special 3-month rate during the off-season; stay 3 months for only $350 per month or $425 per month during the off season. Call Kate at the preserve for details. Short-Term Rental - Feel at home in one of our Vacation Trailers or lovely Thousand Trails Cabins both with fully stocked kitchens. Call the preserve for rates or make your reservations online. Special Events - Planning a reunion, wedding, special event or a trip with a bunch of friends and family? Long Beach is the place for you! We have plenty of RV and tent sites as well as cabins and trailers available for rent. We are right off the beach and close to historic downtown Long Beach. For more information, call Kate at the Preserve Office. On-Site/Dry Storage - Save on gas with our dry storage sites. Available year-round at the low price of $50 a month or get two months free when you sign up for a year for only $500. Call the Preserve Office for details. MT. VERNON | 360-724-4811 Annual/Extended Stay - Come enjoy our preserve with beautiful forest settings and views of the mountains where wildlife parade through. Relax in your own personal site now up to 210 days. Walk the trails or relax in the large swimming pool and spa. Please call Kelly King at the preserve to get your site. OCEANA | 360-289-3504 Annual/Extended Stay - New Reduced Prices! Walk down to the beach for some quiet time away from all the hustle and bustle. Park your RV 12 months at Oceana. Stay up to 210 days a year with no time out. For the BEST PRICE on the WA coast for a full hook-up site with 50-amp power call Dale Graham at the preserve. Short-Term Rental - A limited number of sites are available starting at $350 per month, plus elec. for next summer season. Call Dale Graham at the preserve. On-Site/Dry Storage - RV Storage $40 per month without electric (dry) or $50 per month with electric (limited sites with electricity and may be subject to availability). PARADISE 360-985-2121 (Preserve Office) 360-985-2756 (Ranger Station) Annual/Extended Stay - Save on fuel, extend your stay at Paradise for $550 per month, or consider leaving your rig year-round with an annual lease. Call the preserve for more information. On-Site/Dry Storage - RV Storage $40 per month without electric (dry) or $50 per month with electric (limited sites with electricity and may be subject to availability). THUNDERBIRD 360-794-4030 (Preserve Office) 360-794-8987 (Ranger Station) Annual/Extended Stay - We are now open year-round and have Annual Sites available. Come stay with us and explore the beautiful state of Washington. We also offer the Extended Stay Program at $575 per month, plus $35 electric fee. If interested, please call the Preserve Office.

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

PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY

Special Events - Granite Lodge: Two full kitchens, dining for large groups, sleeps 20+, adjacent RV and tent sites, spa and sauna, satellite TV. Contact preserve at (800) 562-4788.

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

BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA CULTUS LAKE | 604-858-3932 Annual/Extended Stay - We have both Standard and Value Annual Personal Sites available. From October 1-March31, each winter season, we offer month to month stays (not to exceed three (3) months at a time). If you are interested, contact Norman or Lisa at the Preserve Office. On-Site/Dry Storage - During the months of October to March each year we offer storage on our non-water sites at a daily, weekly, monthly or six-month rate. Check with the Preserve Office or Ranger Station if you’re interested. SOUTHWEST ARIZONA VERDE VALLEY | 928-634-8158 Annual/Extended Stay - Extend your stay with us for $99 a week plus tax. Extend by the month on a 30-amp for $350 or 50-amp for $425, plus electric. Annual sites start at $2,500 per year. Pick a lease package where you can stay 365 nights-Best Deal. For more information regarding our Extended Stay and Annual Lease programs, contact Scott Woolley at the preserve. Short-Term Rental - 29-foot trailers for $595 per month (includes electric). Cabins $1,000-1,250 per month (includes electric). Weekly housekeeping and linens, TV/ VCR, satellite. Pet and non-pet units available. Call the preserve to reserve your unit. Dry Storage - Dry Storage available w/o electric for $50 per month or $425 per year, with electric for $90 per month or $775 per year. Call the preserve for details. CALIFORNIA IDYLLWILD 951-659-4097 (Preserve Office) 951-659-4137 (Ranger Station) 951-659-0698 (Recreation Office) Annual/Extended Stay - Annual lease as low as $2,195 per year (not including electricity). Keep your trailer/rig or motorhome on a site for 365 days per year! Please contact Preserve Manager for more details. Short-Term Rental - Stay in the preserve on a month-to-month basis for as low as $575 per month, including water and electricity. We also have rental cabins!! Daily, weekly and by the month. Please contact the Preserve Manager at for more information. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available for as little as $75 per month or $650 per year. Please contact the Preserve Office for more information on terms and conditions. LAKE MINDEN 530-656-2701 (Preserve Office) 530-656-2702 (Special Events) 530-656-2700 (Storage) Annual/Extended Stay - Variety of sites available – 1-3 year leases, sewered and non-sewered sites; utilities not included. Snowbird Program: $425 per month, plus electric, includes one honeywagon dump per week. Call the preserve for more information. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage: Quarterly for $120. Call the preserve for information LAKE OF THE SPRINGS | 530-692-1852 Annual/Extended Stay - Have your own personal site waiting for you. Call Renee for more information at (530) 692-3212. We also have sites available on a monthly basis, call (530) 692-1852. JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY

Special Events - Have your group gathering with us! Campsite and rental units are available. Call (530) 692-1852.

RANCHO OSO | 805-683-5686 Annual/Extended Stay - Monthly RV sites $749, plus electricity.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Why haul your rig back and forth? We have dry storage for $50 per month. If you pay for one year, you get one month free. Call (530) 692-1852.

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

MORGAN HILL 408-779-6396 (Preserve Office) 408-779-4932 (SuperHost) Annual/Extended Stay - Call the preserve to get the details on the best prices in the area for full hook-up and partial hook-up sites for stays up to 210 days in a year.

Special Events - Reunions, youth groups, picnics, retreats, meetings. Private Chapel/ Pavilion and courtyard available for events. Stay in new cottages, TT cabins, western bunkhouse cabins or covered wagons. RV groups of six or more rigs can now save campsites for arriving group members. Please contact preserve for details.- RV groups of six or more rigs can now save campsites for arriving group members. Please contact preserve for details.

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

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

OAKZANITA 619-445-2835 (Preserve Office) 619-445-2515 (Ranger Station) Annual/Extended Stay - Gas prices got you down? Hate the hassle of setting up and taking down your RV? If you like to escape the hustle and bustle of your life then we have the program for you. You can have your own personal site and you can leave your rig 365 days a year, you can occupy your rig for up to 210 days a year. We offer a limited number of annual sites and due to gas prices they fill up fast. Call Sheila or Cheryl at the preserve for more information.

RUSSIAN RIVER 707-894-5321 (Preserve Office) 707-894-5355 (Special Events) Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites are still available - only a couple left. Extended Stay $425 per month, plus electric; includes one honeywagon dump per week. For more information call the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - We offer rental cabins you can stay for the night or by the week. Call the preserve for prices. We also have a limited number of horse corrals available by the day or week. Call the preserve. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage for only $450 per year, $65 per month or $40 per week. Call the Ranger Station for more information. PALM SPRINGS | 760-345-1682 Annual/Extended Stay - Are you dreading the day when you have to pack up your RV and return home before all the snow has melted? Enjoy your time in paradise and extend your stay and/or leave your RV here by obtaining an annual site. Rally groups welcome September through November and April through May 15. Special Events - We have 22 rental units available for group events. Call the preserve for information. PIO PICO | 619-421-0104 Annual/Extended Stay - Are you tired of moving from park to park every 2-3 weeks? Or moving your RV in and out of storage? Get your own personal site and leave your RV there all year long. Contact Dave D. at Preserve Office.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Call Ranger Station for details. SNOWFLOWER | 530-389-8241 Annual/Extended Stay - Have a favorite camping area or site you prefer? Reserve a personal seasonal site anywhere in the preserve for only $388 per month. Seasonal sites available from May through October, weather permitting.

Short-Term Rental - Are you going on vacation? We have Vacation Rental Trailers and cabins available for short-term stays. For more details please call the preserve. Special Events - Are you planning a group event, family reunion or sports banquet? We can accommodate all group sizes. Call preserve office to schedule event.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Storage sites available starting at $8 per day to $75 per month. Call the Ranger Station to check availability.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Call Frank at x102 for more details and specials information.

SOLEDAD CANYON 661-269-1740 (Preserve Office) 661-269-7038 (Special Events) Special Events - Have your rally, wedding, picnic, retreat or reunion at our beautiful preserve. Catering for up to 3,000 available. Call the preserve for information.

Special Events - Plan your next special event with us along the beautiful American River. We can help you host up to 150 guests for your wedding, family reunion, rally, or other special event function. Make your event one to remember – host it at Ponderosa Resort! Call the preserve for more information. On-Site/Dry Storage - Call Kathy at the preserve for information. 56

Special Events - If you’re looking for that great place for family gatherings, youth groups, reunions, meetings, retreats, church gatherings or just your very own special event, such as birthdays or anniversaries, contact Teri and we can get you on your way. So come and enjoy the natural beauty of San Benito.

Short-Term Rental - Try something new and stay in one of our cabins or yurts! Cabins sleep four maximum and start at $71.20 per night mid-week, plus tax; yurts sleep 4-5 and start at $44 per night mid-week, plus tax. Cabins and Yurts are only a short drive to exploring California’s historic Gold Country or gaming and nightlife In Reno, NV. The yurts have heaters and new mini-fridges for your convenience. Call preserve for information.

PONDEROSA | 530-642-5830 Annual/Extended Stay - Sign up for our new Annual Site program. Make a site yours for an entire year or up to 3 years! Eliminate storage costs and the hassle of moving your rig. Call Dominic at the preserve.

SAN BENITO 831-389-4477 (Ranger Station) 831-389-4478 (Special Events) Annual/Extended Stay - Both programs are available. We also have Getaway Cabins and other cabins and vacation trailers all for the asking. Give us a call and see when we can fit you in. We also have space available for the public and we have tent sites too. For any questions, contact our Ranger Station.

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

On-Site/Dry Storage - On-site storage no longer available. Dry Storage $75 per month or $750 annual. Call the preserve for information. TURTLE BEACH | 209-239-0991 On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available for $20 per week or $60 per month. WILDERNESS LAKES 951-672-4831 (Preserve Office) 951-672-7804 (Special Events/SuperHost)

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

Short-Term Rental - Make your cabin and trailer reservations early; high demand in fall, winter and spring. Call the Rental Office for information. MIDWEST/NORTHEAST ILLINOIS PINE COUNTRY 815-547-5517 (Preserve & Marketing Office) Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available - rates $2,044. Monthly site rental (RV) - $425 per month. We offer weekly and mid-week special rates also. Call preserve for details. Short-Term Rental - Public W/E/S - nightly rate - $43. Tent sites - nightly $28. Special Events - Large and small pavilion available for rental - must reserve. Clubhouse space available for rental - must reserve. On-Site/Dry Storage - Yearly storage rates $350. INDIANA INDIAN LAKES 812-934-5496 (Preserve & Marketing Office) Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites starting at just $1,200. Please call Charlene. On-Site/Dry Storage - RV storage available starting at $35 per month. Quarterly, semi-annual, and annual rates available. Call Charlene at the preserve. HORSESHOE LAKES | 765-832-2487 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Lease Sites are $1,500 for lakefront and $1,075 for non-lakefront. Short-Term Rental - We have 126 sites available (122 full hook-up, and 25 50-amp sites - 50-amp sites are $3 per night). Special Events - RV sites, meeting/banquet room, kitchen available for reunions, parties, church groups, weddings, etc. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available starting at $10 per week up to $300 annually. MAINE MOODY BEACH | 207-646-4586 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites Available: Premium $2882, plus electric fee; Elite $3542, plus electric fee; membership required. Great sites still available. Close to sandy beaches, attractive, Portland ME and Portsmouth NH. Annual Cottages Available: 28â&#x20AC;&#x2122;x12â&#x20AC;&#x2122; park models, sleeps 4 adults and 2 children, complete kitchen and bath, supplies. Own your own cottage to come to all season! Annual site fee required. Prices vary - contact manager for more information. Extended Stay Available: $535 per month - April, May, June - September, October. Extended Stay available for 1000 per month - July and August. Call Country Store for more information. Short-Term Rental - April 15-June 10 and September 5 to closing (Oct. 20). Spring or Fall - Shoulder Seasons, get away for a weekend or a week at Moody Beach. Call Country Store for special or look us up on line at www.1000trails.com.

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

PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY

NEVADA LAS VEGAS 702-451-2719 (Preserve Office) 800-288-7245 (Rentals) 702-451-4647 (Storage) Annual/Extended Stay - Come HOME to your own private site in FUN City. Yearround sites available in four price ranges. Extended Stay monthly sites available from $475 per month. Call preserve for details.

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

MASSACHUSETTS GATEWAY TO CAPE COD | 508-763-5911 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available for $2350. Vacation cottages for sale starting at $2500, plus site fee of $2450. Please call preserve for details. Short-Term Rental - Park Model rentals available starting at $60 per night (some pet units available). Call the preserve for more information and reservations. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available $46 per month or $360 per year. Call the preserve or inquire at the Trading Post. STURBRIDGE | 508-347-7156 Annual/Extended Stay - Annuals from $1740 to $2666 for lakeside and, new this year, seasonal sites for spring and fall for $500. Short-Term Rental - Five rental units available with nightly and weekly rates, 10 people per site. All you bring is linen and food. Amenities are free. Special Events - We have a beautiful conference center for all occasions nestled in beautiful Sturbridge. On-Site/Dry Storage - Off-site Storage: $20 per week; $45 per month; or $350 per year. MICHIGAN BEAR CAVE | 269-695-3050 Annual/Extended Stay - You are invited to stay at a former Potawatomi Indian Village. Stay and fish on the St. Joseph River from your annual site for $1820. Choose a premium site for $2080. Your site, your way! Short-Term Rental - Park model rentals available; one bedroom for $69 per night or 2 bedroom for $99 per night; 2-night minimum stay on weekends and 3-night minimum stay on holiday weekends. Linen rental for additional fee. Call for details. On-Site/Dry Storage - Save on gas and leave your trailer in storage for only $30 per month. ST. CLAIR | 810-329-7129 Annual/Extended Stay - Beautiful sites, concrete pad and patio, paved road, metered 50-amp electric, water and sewer. Stay up to 180 nights and store your rig the rest of the year. $2,000 per year. Similar new sites with gravel pads and roads are only $1,500 per year. Contact Preserve Manager for details. NEW JERSEY CHESTNUT LAKE | 609-652-1005 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites starting at $1,599; Monthly Sites from $500. On-Site/Dry Storage - Storage for $25 per week; $50 per month or $400 per year. LAKE & SHORE | 609-624-1494 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites are full - we do have a waiting list. Special Events - We can accommodate parties up to 175 and weddings too! SEA PINES Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites available, starting at $2895. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available for $20 weekly, $50 per month or $400 per year.

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY

NEW YORK RONDOUT VALLEY | 845-626-5521 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites start at $2,895; for other special, please call preserve. Special Events - Open air pavilion available to rent for special events.

metered electricity. Premium sites for $2200, plus metered electricity. Vacation Cottage site fee for $2100 per year. For more information, please call Stacey or Joan at the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - November-April: $25 per month; April-October $45 per month or $396 for the year, if paid in full.

Special Events - Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t worry about the weather â&#x20AC;&#x201C; our large building is available for rent. Building will accommodate square dance groups inside; also available for weddings and other events. For more information, please call Stacey or Joan at the preserve.

OHIO KENISEE LAKE | 440-576-9030 Annual/Extended Stay - Lakefront and non-lakefront sites available. Please call the preserve for details. Short-Term Rental - Elite site is $475 for a month-to-month and $425 per month for a standard site. Special Events - Rustic Barn, Pool Pavilion available for Family Reunions, Superhosts, and Get-togethers. If interested, please contact Linda Roberts for more information. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage ONLY. Fees: $35 per month; $65 per quarter (yearly) $125 per 6 months; and $235 for one year. WILMINGTON | 937-382-5883 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available. Call preserve for details. Special Events - SuperHost Facility Rental: Family Lodge $400; Pavilion $100. Call preserve for more information. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available - $40 per month or $150 for six (6) months. Call the Ranger Station.

SCOTRUN | 570-629-0620 Annual/Extended Stay - Scotrun, in the beautiful Pocono Mountains, has annual sites available starting at $1295. Scotrun is central to everything in the Poconos and easy access right off Route 80. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage Only - $400 per year or $50 per month. Contact preserve for details. TIMOTHY LAKE RESORT NORTH 570-588-6631 (In Season) 570-588-1617 (Off Season) Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available. Seasonal Location near beautiful Bushkill Falls and the Delaware Water Gap. Annual Sites are $2185 which includes 30-50 amp service, sewer and water with metered electric; paved roads throughout resort. Limited amount of Used Cottages for sale also. Call resort directly. Short-Term Rental - Rental Cabins available May 1-October 28. Special Events - 150 Seat Indoor Entertainment Center for Events & Rental, Birthday Parties Packages, Seasonal Indoor Water Park also available for parties, Member Lounge with Televised Sporting Events including NFL Sunday Ticket.

Short-Term Rental - Short term site rental available. Contact Jamie at the preserve (ext. 12).

TIMOTHY LAKE RESORT SOUTH 570-588-1617 (Year-round) Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available at a great year-round location near beautiful Shawnee Mountain and Bushkill Falls. Annual Sites are $2385 which includes large sites with 50-amp service, year-round sewer and water with metered electric, paved roads throughout and gated community. Includes 365 days of access with 230 days of usage to use as you want. Limited amount of used Cottages Available and New Cottage Sales. Call resort directly.

GETTYSBURG FARM | 717-292-7191 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites available. Call Jeff at the preserve office for information. Special Events - Two pavilions are available for your reunion, company picnic, wedding or party. These creekside pavilions are a popular gathering spot for your special functions. Call Jeff or Mary at the preserve. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage Rates: $20 weekly, $50 monthly and $300 yearly. Call the preserve or stop by the Trading Post. HERSHEY 717-867-1891 (Preserve Office) 717-867-3967 (Storage) Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites available at beautiful Hershey Preserve starting at $2,600. Call Kim at the preserve. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage Rates: $20 weekly, $50 monthly, $200 for six months or $375 per year. Call or stop by the Country Store during regular hours. PA DUTCH COUNTRY | 717-665-2500 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual site available - standard sites for $1825, plus 58

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

PENNSYLVANIA CIRCLE M | 717-872-4651 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites still available starting at $2,150. Vacation cottages also available. Supply is limited. Contact Jamie at the preserve (ext. 12) for details.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available. Contact Preserve Office (ext. 0) for details.

Short-Term Rental - 14 cabins available for rent. Call the preserve for details.

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

On-Site/Dry Storage - $20 weekly, $65 monthly, and $390 annually.

Short-Term Rental - Rental Cabins available Year-round. Special Events - RV Rallies & RV Clubs Welcome. Prices Range from $24.99-$39.99 a night depending on size of group or rally. We are a Shawnee E-Ticket Center. Our guest can purchase tickets for all Winter Events and Summer Festivals and receive discounts for these events at the resort. On-Site/Dry Storage - $20 weekly, $65 monthly, and $390 annually. Space is Limited! SOUTHEAST ALABAMA HIDDEN COVE | 205-221-7042 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available - $2,150. For information please call the preserve. Short-Term Rental - Park Model Rentals $60 and $70 per night. For information, call the preserve.

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

FLORIDA ORLANDO 352-394-5531 (Preserve Office) 352-394-7300 (Special Events) Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites: Standard $3330; Premium $3430 (must be a Thousand Trails member to become an Annual Site Holder). Seasonal sites: Standard: Member/Public: 3 months: $1755/$2178; 4 months: $2204/$2628; 5 months $2575/$3000; 6 months: $3054/$3474. Premium: Member/Public: 3 months: $1965/$2391; 4 months: $2416/$2840; 5 months: $2790/$3210; 6 months $3264/$3690. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage $8 per night, $30 per week or $70 per month. PEACE RIVER | 863-735-8888 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available for $2280 per year, plus tax and electric. Extended stay/seasonal sites are also available: November $350; December $375, January $410; February $425; March $410; April $375. Discounts available for three months or more. Seasonal sites are 30-amp with water and electric. price includes one free honey wagon dump per week. Call Lee at the preserve for more details.

On-Site/Dry Storage - We offer on-site storage at $150 per month, plus electric and taxes. TENNESSEE CHEROKEE LANDING | 731-376-0935 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available from $1,099 to $1,300 for the season for current members. Extended Stay sites are $300 for current members. Call the preserve to make your reservations. Short-Term Rental - We have campsites and rental cabins available. Call the preserve to make your reservations. NATCHEZ TRACE | 931-796-3212 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites still available - $1,020 to $1,380. Short-Term Rental - Mid-week cabin stay special - $99 Monday through Thursday. Limited Availability. Standard Cabins only.

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

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

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

TEXAS BAY LANDING | 940-683-3016 Annual/Extended Stay - Bay Landing is now your personal site for 12 months. *Annual Stay – stay up to 210 days a year with no time out. Limited spaces available. Honey Runs every Monday, Wednesday and Friday for $10, plus tax. No need to move your rig, we come to you! Contact the Ranger Station before 2 p.m. to put your name on the list. Don’t cut your weekend short with towing and setup. Save on Gas. No pulling! Please call Lynn.

THREE FLAGS | 352-748-3870 (Preserve Office) Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available. Please call Joanne or Darlene for details. Short-Term Rental - Vacation cottages available for rent. Special Events - We have a large clubhouse that may be rented out for special events. On-Site/Dry Storage - Off-site storage is available for $3 per day, $50 per month or $350 per year. Call Joanne or Darlene for details. NORTH CAROLINA FOREST LAKE | 336-998-4135 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites are available! Don’t delay in securing yours now and start enjoying the convenience of annual site rental. Contact Preserve Office for current rate. Short-Term Rental - Cabins, cottages and short-term rentals are available. The longer you stay, the better the price! For rates and availability contact Barb Stanze at the Preserve Office. GREEN MOUNTAIN PARK | 828-757-4088 Annual/Extended Stay - Rates are $1,400 to $2,855. Call preserve for details. Short-Term Rental - Vacation cottages for sale at $4,495. On-Site/Dry Storage - Storage available - $2 per day or $365 per year. LAKE GASTON | 252-586-4121 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available. Rates from $1,950. Call the preserve for details. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available: $20 per week, $45 per month or $325 per year. Storage available for boats and RVs. For information, please call the preserve.

PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY

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

SOUTH CAROLINA CAROLINA LANDING | 864-972-9892 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available starting at $1,300 for current members. THE OAKS AT POINT SOUTH | 843-726-5728 Annual/Extended Stay - Come spend the season where it’s sunny at our beautiful spot close to Savannah, Charleston, and right next door to the historic Beaufort by the sea. Our rates are very reasonable - $350 per month plus tax and electric. Call the preserve and book now. Easy access to/from I-95.

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

Special Events - We have excellent amenities for any of your SuperHost needs, such as family reunions, weddings, church groups, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, etc. Beautiful pavilions on Lake Bridgeport. Please call Nena at the preserve. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage Only - $45, plus tax ($48.04). COLORADO RIVER | 979-732-8229 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual site leases available for part-time or full-time occupancy. Suitable for RV or park models. Also offering Winter/Summer Texan extended stays for members and the public for up to 5 months at market rate, plus metered electricity. For pricing and details about Annual sites or 55+ programs, call Marty or send email at crmgr@equitylifestyle.com. Special Events - Make your family reunion or church picnic interesting and fun for all ages. Contact Marty or send email to crmgr@equitylifestyle.com. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available year-round; fenced secure area. Call the preserve or send email coloradoriver_mgr@equitylifestyle.com. LAKE CONROE 936-856-7888 (Preserve Office) 936-856-3751 (Rental Office) Annual/Extended Stay - Come stay for a maximum of five months at a time on our Texan Program. The cost is $375 per month, plus electricity. We also have medical stays available. For details contact the Ranger. Our annual program allows you to stay up to 210 days and leave your rig onsite for the entire year. Hidden Cove annual programs are available for 300 days. Contact the Preserve Office for details. JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY

Short-Term Rental - We have four cabins for rent nightly for two weeks at a time, for $80 for members, plus $10 extra for guests, plus tax, per night. We have nine Getaways for our Getaway members. We also have a Hidden Cove rental, which are owned by members and rented by the week or the month. Check with our Preserve Office for details. All rentals are fully furnished. You just need to bring clothes and food! Special Events - SuperHost/pavilion/family center/lake area rental available most weekends for parties and special events. Contact the Ranger Station at the preserve. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage is $35 per month, plus tax. Contact the Ranger Station. We also have short-term storage at $40 per week, plus tax, where you may store your RV and leave electric plugged in while you are out of the preserve. LAKE TAWAKONI | 903-598-2800 Annual/Extended Stay - Standard and Premium sites are available. There are electric charges on both. These sites are for 210 days of usage. Marina and dry storage are available for boats. Short-Term Rental - Two rental cabins available. On-Site/Dry Storage - Monthly Dry Storage cost is $42.70. LAKE TEXOMA 903-523-5835 (Preserve Office) 903-523-4206 (Special Events/Storage) Annual/Extended Stay - Personal Sites available. A year with no time out. *Limited spaces available.* Save on gas, setup, pulling/towing. Please call Nic at the preserve office for information. Don’t delay - sites are rapidly filling up! On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available for $40 per month. Please call Brynda. LAKE WHITNEY | 254-694-4269 Annual/Extended Stay - Our annual/personal site program allows you to camp up to 210 days a year. There are 4 different price ranges depending on the site type chosen. Call us to find out how to get your personal site at Lake Whitney. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available for $55 per month or $605, plus tax, for the entire year (if paid in full at start of storage). You receive the 13th month free. Don’t wait - limited space. MEDINA LAKE 830-751-2444 (Preserve Office) 830-751-2406 (Special Events/Storage) Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Site program available. Guarantee your personal site for an entire year with sites starting at $1,733. Call preserve for details. Special Events - Family reunions, company picnics, rallies – we do them all! We have two large outdoor areas available for day use. Campsite and limited cabin rentals are also available. Call Cindy at Special Events. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage $60 per month or $540 per year, plus tax. Call Preserve Office or Storage. VIRGINIA CHESAPEAKE BAY 804-693-6951 (Resort Office) 804-693-9645 (Special Events) Annual/Extended Stay - Chesapeake Bay is the best place to spend weekends and vacation and our annual sites make it so easy to jump in the car and head to the“rivah”! Contact Lisa in the Resort Office if you would like information on how you can lease a site in 2013. Short-Term Rental - We have 20 fully-furnished rental cabins that sleep 4-6. (18 are lakefront locations). Pet units also available. On-Site/Dry Storage - Field storage available year-round. On-site storage available Nov. 15May 15. Call Resort Office for details.

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

HARBOR VIEW | 804-224-8164 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites $1600, plus electric; monthly $375, plus electric. Short-Term Rental - Book your stay in our Rental Unit; sleeps 6 with a full kitchen and bath. Pets allowed. Call for rates and details. Special Events - Plan your group event at Harbor View. Air-conditioned Recreational Hall and covered Pavilion available for reservation. LYNCHBURG | 434-332-6672 Annual/Extended Stay - Come discover why Lynchburg is among the top 25 retirement communities in the nation. Discover all of the history, charm, entertainment and cultural events the area has to offer. We offer annual sites for $1,235.; Value sites for $950. and monthly sites for $325. Call Preserve Office for more information. Short-Term Rental - Spend a month or two and enjoy all the wonderful activities and attractions of the area. Our monthly rate is $300, plus electric. Call the preserve for more information and start making your plans today. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage is available for $40 per month, $10 per week. Discounts available on six month and yearly contracts. VIRGINIA LANDING | 757-442-4853 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites are available for $1,000, plus electric. Call preserve for details. Short-Term Rental - Fully furnished cabins starting at $70 for members. Call preserve for more information. Special Events - Plan your group event here. Air-conditioned family lodge and kitchen available for rental. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage for $35 per month. WILLIAMSBURG | 757-566-3021 Annual/Extended Stay - Your best year of camping begins at Williamsburg. Annual on-site program at our beautiful tree-sheltered campground: full hook-up, metered sites begin at $1,750. Vacation Cottage Program offers 28 to 38-foot park models, vinyl or log-sided from $1,499 to $4,999, with a 3-year annual on-site lease. Satellite reception sites still available. Call Kristi at the preserve to find out about this month’s TrailBlazer Reader’s Special. Short-Term Rental - Spacious cabins that sleep 6-8 are available starting at $56 for members. Fully furnished except for linens. Call Preserve Office for more information. On-Site/Dry Storage - Secure and easy access storage for $20 per week, $45 per month, or $395 annually, with park membership. Call the preserve for more information.

Looking for the

CLUB

CALENDAR

Visit the TrailBlazer website at www.trailblazermagazine.net

CIRCLE NO. 116 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Tech Topics continued from page 9

countertop surface itself, because it will definitely dull the finish. Corian and other solid surface countertops can be scratched or nicked, so you should always use a cutting board when preparing food. Countertops can chip if you drop heavy objects onto the surface, much like granite can. Extreme heat can cause scarring, so always use a trivet when placing hot items on the countertop and always allow your cookware to cool before putting it in a solid surface sink. It’s also a very good idea (especially in an RV) to simultaneously run cold water from the faucet whenever pouring very hot cooking water into the sink and drain.

An advantage of most solid surface countertops is that minor scratches can usually be removed by using a polishing compound. Deeper scratches can be “erased” by using fine grit sandpaper and gently sanding in a circular motion, as per your countertop’s Care Manual. Finish the repair with a polishing compound and if necessary, restore the sheen with a countertop wax. We hope these tips help you keep your rig sparkly, shiny, and inviting for years to come. Happy travels, everyone! ■ Paul and Kerri Elders are freelance writers; visit their website at RVLinker.com Follow Paul & Kerri on Twitter @rvlinker

Apple Pie continued from page 11

Combine all the ingredients in a medium bowl using the back of a fork. Set aside. Unroll one of the pie crusts onto a flexible cutting board or parchment paper. You can use a rolling pin to make the crust thinner if you wish. Sprinkle with at least 2 Tablespoons of cinnamon. Roll the crust up somewhat tight making a miniature cinnamon roll. Make 3 straps by cutting 6 inch x 18 inch parchment strips. Fold these in thirds to get 2 inch x 18 inch strips. Lay them into the oven in a star pattern. Cut a parchment disk the same size as the bottom of the oven. Lay that over the parchment strap star. Slice the piecrust roll into ¼ in thick slabs. Place each little roll onto the parchment snugly. One pie crust will almost 62

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

fill a 10-inch oven bottom. Repeat for the second roll of piecrust, using the slices to create the side walls of the pie. Press down on the crust to meld it together. Slice the apples into thin wedges. Place in a bowl. Sprinkle on the lemon peel and a pinch of salt. Toss together. Fill up the crust with the apples, taking care to fill in all the open spots. Top with the crumb topping. Bake at 375 for 50-60 minutes until the apples are soft and the crumb topping is gently browned. Turn over a lid onto a lid stand or have a serving plate ready. With a couple of helpers, and being really careful not to touch the cast iron (because the Dutch oven is super hot), grasp the straps and pick straight up and over to the lid or serving plate. Let stand until the pie is cool. Serve up and enjoy! n

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Answers on page 64

To Advertise in Marketplace Or To Place a Classified Ad email TBads@equitylifestyle.com Deadline for August 2013 Issue is June 30, 2013 JUNE 2013 | 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!

Joan Green

CIRCLE NO. 106 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

from Vancouver, WA found the evergreen tree on page 7 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 June 30, and remember — the tree could be a different color and size.

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

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

Eileen Guttridge of Concord, NC

Answers - Crossword puzzle can be found on page 50

Answers - Sudoku puzzle can be found on page 50

Continued from page 13

the park. Try the Ledges Trail, an easy hike over a 2.2 mile loop through the heart of the Valley’s sandstone cliffs.

Washington

Mount Rainier National Park: TT’s Chehalis (90 miles), Paradise (70 miles)

VIRGINIA

Chesapeake Bay: TT’s Chesapeake Bay (1 hour)

With the designation as one of the oldest national parks, Mount Rainier welcomes 2 million visitors annually, who flock to see majestic Mt. Rainier, the most prominent peak in the Cascade Mountain Range, at 14,410 feet. Another distinction of this national park is that it is home to 25 major glaciers. Thanks to the park’s ecosystems, wildlife is abundant and visitors can glimpse elk and mountain goats.

Did you know that Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the United States? The Bay is home to 3,600 species of plants, fish and animals. Englishman John Smith, often associated with Pocahontas, explored, mapped and documented more than 3,000 miles of the Bay in the early 1600s. Stretching from Maryland to Virginia, there is a lot to see here and the National Park Service has designated three specific trails, the Star Spangled Banner National Historic Trail, which tells the story of the War of 1812 in that region, as well as the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail and Chesapeake Bay Gateways and Watertrails Network.

INDIANA

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore: Encore’s Twin Mills (2 hours) Encore’s Lakeside (1 hour) Fifteen miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and a bird watchers paradise with more than 350 species, the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore has more to offer than just its sand dunes, some of which rise more than 200 feet. There is a long history behind the efforts to make the Dunes part of the National Park Service; a story that began in 1899. Bogs, marshes, savannas, swamps, forest and more combine to make this a must-see. Don’t miss a hike up M o u n t Baldy (on m a r k e d trails) which is tallest moving sand dune in the national lakeshore.

So come along with us on a fabulous summer road trip and explore our national parks as well as Encore and Thousand Trails preserves. Make plans and reservations now! n

Photos: Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, Cuyahoga Valley National Park

OHIO

Rollling hills, open farmlands, caves and a winding river combine over 33,000 acres to make Cuyahoga Valley National Park a favorite place to walk, hike, cycle the trails and just commune with nature. The park is home to several restored displays of 19th and early 20th century farming exhibits as well as the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath trail. The trail was developed by the NPS and is the major trail through

M CIRCLE NO. 153 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

Cuyahoga Valley National Park: TT’s Kenisee Lake (1 hour)

ay Gift! ather’s D F t a e r G akes a

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GONE g

a m in p

ay was a busy month for these two TrailBlazers.

Louisa headed east and enjoyed our Pennsylvania preserves, including a stop at Encoreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Spring Gulch to catch the Folk Fest. She enjoyed the music, crafts and especially the sing-along campfires. Clark headed west to the California sunshine. He attended the Member Appreciation Events at Wilderness Lakes and played several rounds of minigolf there. Where have you seen Louisa and Clark?

JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

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JUNE 2013 | TRAILBLAZER CIRCLE NO. 128 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50