TrailBlazer Magazine - May 2012 by TrailBlazer Magazine

MAY 2012 n $2.00 www.trailblazermagazine.net

Greetings from the

JERSEY SHORE COME EXPLORE NEW JERSEY'S FABLED SHORELINE

Let’s Eat:

Diners & Drive-ins, Oh My! A TRUE TRAILBLAZER: GLOBAL NOBLE, PART 2

On the Road: Guy Fieri

☐✓Sunblock ☐✓Paddles ☐✓Good Friends

Receive a $25 American Express Gift Card when your referral purchases a Zone Camping Pass. Your referral also enters you into our 2012 drawing for a chance to win these great prizes. Grand Prize 7 Night Cruise or Trip to Hawaii (a $4,000 value)

MAY2012 CONTENTS

Photo courtesy of Wildwoods Convention Center

Camping is always better with friends.

VOL. 34 n ISSUE 4

A Shore Thing ■ 30 From the thrills of the amusement rides and casino’s high rollers to the quiet charm of the picturesque shore towns, the Jersey Shore has just about everything you can imagine!

Second Prize Third Prize 4 Nights in either Las FREE DUES for 2013 (10 winners selected) Vegas, San Francisco (up to $499value) or Orlando (a $2,000 value)

www.zonecampingpass.com/referthezone Details and qualifications for participation in this promotion may apply and are set forth on page 62 of this magazine. MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Message from Tom The Camper’s Kitchen

Tech Topics

Activities & Events

Trail Mix

News & Notes

Spotlight: New Camp Gear

On the Road: Guy Fieri

A True TrailBlazer: Global Noble, Part 2

Features: New Jersey — A Shore Thing

Let’s Eat: Diners & Drive-Ins

Member Deals

On the Market

Advertiser Index

Crossword & Sudoku Puzzles

Preserve Services Directory

Winding Roads

Club Calendar

Marketplace

Classified Advertising

On Location

Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives ■ 36 Guy Fieri: photo courtesy of Food Network

We’re on the road and it’s all about food. Taking a nod from Food Network’s Guy Fieri, TrailBlazer lists some of the best places to eat near our preserves. MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

MESSAGE FROM TOM

eel the need to really get back in touch with nature? Sleep under the stars? Relive your first camping experience?

I am also happy to report the opening of Rondout Valley! As many of you recall, Rondout was in the path of a major hurricane last year and required extensive repairs. I appreciate the efforts of our teams and the patience of our loyal members throughout this period.

We’ve got just the opportunity for you. Thousand Trails members can now tent camp, for free, at 14 Encore RV resorts and campgrounds. We are pleased to offer our members access to these 14 locations, representing some of the best tent camping to be had. Pitch a tent along the Schroon River at Lake George Schroon in the Adirondack region of New York; or experience the majesty of Mt. Hood when you choose Mt. Hood Village in Welches, Oregon. If you’re planning a trip to Disney, Sherwood Forest offers a peaceful setting and yet is just 4 miles from the Magic Kingdom. Explore Zion National Park while making St. George in Hurricane, Utah, your home base. Experience Maine and the charm of Bar Harbor at Mt. Desert Narrows or enjoy some Midwest hospitality at two Wisconsin resorts and one Indiana resort - see our complete list below. Mount Hood Village - Oregon Tahoe Valley - California Tall Chief - Washington St. George - Utah Valley Vista - Arizona Desert Vista - Arizona Twin Mills - Indiana Tranquil Timbers - Wisconsin Arrowhead - Wisconsin Mt. Desert Narrows - Maine Lake George Schroon – New York Bulow Plantation - Florida Sunshine Key - Florida Sherwood Forest - Florida From east to west and in between, there’s plenty of options and plenty of locations. You bring the tent, we’ll provide the views! Our seasonal preserves are kicking into high gear, preparing for one of the biggest camping weekends of the season, and the unofficial kick-off of summer, Memorial Day Weekend. If you’ve been following the News and Notes section in TrailBlazer you know that our on-site teams have been busy with updates including remodeled lodges and activity centers, spruced up landscaping, new roofs, decks and more.

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

CIRCLE NO. 124 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

When the creators of the Food Network hit, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives came up with the show, the concept was to be a road trip that was all about food. Sounds fun, right? As you travel to your camping destinations this summer, why not consider what’s to eat along the way? This issue of TrailBlazer not only features an interview with the man that made Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives famous, Guy Fieri, but we also provide our own sampling of these wonderful eateries near to our preserves. We’ve compiled a list with a little help from our Facebook fans as well as our preserve managers. Next time you’re visiting one of the preserves, make sure to check out the local fare! On that note, I will wish you all a happy Memorial Day Weekend and we look forward to a fun-filled summer season of camping, family and friends, and of course, good food!

Thought Of the Month “One thing I’d love to say about RVing—I encourage more road trips. Just get out there and see it. Meet the people, eat the food, see the sites!” ~ Guy Fieri

TOM HENEGHAN Pr esident and CEO

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

PICS FROM THE PARKS ▼

Lake Texoma, TX: We love going to Lake Texoma Preserve. Have been going down there enjoying the people and the park for about 4 years now and always had a good time.We go fishing almost every time and love their Thanksgiving dinners.This is a picture of my husband, Philip, with his 15 pound catfish. He had a good time.

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

- Philip and Jannie Wilcox, Sallisaw, OK

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Paul and Kerri Elders Janet Groene Kim Wuchter ADVERTISING SALES 877-252-9320 TBads@equitylifestyle.com

New Subscriptions 1-877-252-9320

Member Services 1-800-388-7788 Resort Parks International Reservations 1-800-456-7774 ELS Reservations 1-877-362-6736 PRINTED IN THE USA

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.

Medina Lake, TX: Our daughter discovering a walking stick at our campsite - Jim Rose Arlington, TX

Medina Lake, TX: This is the best time of year to enjoy the bluebonnets and the many locals (deer). Having Fun RVing! - Mike & Darlene Kohut Madison, SD

Orlando, FL: 3-day-old baby crane born about 100 yards from our RV. Just before it was born, the mama pushed the egg out of the nest into the water and back into the nest as if to wash it. - Dick Moyer, Bethlehem, PA

▼

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

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

▼

TrailBlazer Magazine

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

Now Win $50 EACH Issue!

▼

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.

One winner will be selected EACH month from sumissions received. The winner will be announced in each issue and on the website. 6

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Mapley Meatloaf

The Camper’s Kitchen by Lesley Tennessen

a traveling feast IN YOUR DUTCH OVEN

Starting in New England we’ll serve up great meatloaf, combining a fantastic mix of meat, onions and the sweet goodness of maple. You will need: 12-inch Dutch oven 30 coals (18-20 on lid, 10 coals in a ring under) to make a 350 degree oven Rack to set the meatloaf on, or thick slices of onions to make a trivet

1 ½ pounds of 80% lean ground meat 1 medium onion, chopped Salt and pepper ½ - ¾ cup of oatmeal (rolled oats) 1 egg ¼ cup REAL maple syrup

Nothing says you’re in the south like a great dish of biscuits. These are THE BEST biscuits you will ever have – so light, fluffy, and soft and just as good when cooled as when fresh from the oven!

In a large bowl, combine meat, onion, egg, oatmeal, seasonings, and maple syrup. Mix it all together with your hands until well combined. Shape into a loaf shape about 6 inches long, 3 inches wide and 3 inches thick. Place on the rack in your Dutch oven. Put the oven onto the ring of coals and cover with lid. Cook for about 45 minutes.

et’s go on a road trip with our Dutch ovens to see how local and regional food can be prepared while you are enjoying your time camping and RVing across the country. This month we are going to explore cuisines of New England, the Mid-Atlantic, Southeast, Southwest, Midwest, and the Pacific Northwest.

Southern Biscuits

Recipe courtesy of Food TV, Alton Brown Modified for the Dutch oven by Lesley Tennessen

Try pouring a sauce over the loaf at the end of cooking made with ¼ cup maple syrup and 2 tablespoon Sweet Baby Ray’s Original!

Total time about 45 minutes Prep about 20, Cook 20-25 minutes Yield: 1 dozen 2-inch biscuits

Baked Chicken and Kraut

You will need: 10-in Dutch oven 2 cups flour 4 teaspoons baking powder 1/4 teaspoon baking soda 3/4 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoon butter 2 tablespoon shortening 1 cup buttermilk, chilled

The Mid-Atlantic states, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland, are rich in German heritage, so let’s cook up Chicken and Sauerkraut. And before you say that those two foods should never be together, give this recipe a try. Southern Biscuits

Preheat the lid on a 10-inch regular camp oven for 5-7 minutes (put about 20 lit coals on the lid). In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Using your fingertips, rub butter and shortening into dry ingredients until mixture looks like crumbs, moving quickly as you don’t want the fats to melt. Make a well in the center and pour in the chilled buttermilk. Stir just until the dough comes together. The dough will be very sticky. If it is way too sticky, dust about 1 tablespoon of flour over the top and mix lightly again. Turn dough onto floured surface, dust top with flour and gently fold dough over on itself 5 or 6 times. Press into a 1-inch thick round. Cut out biscuits with a 2-inch cutter, being sure to push straight down through the dough. Place biscuits on lightly greased bottom of the 10-inch oven so that they just touch. Reform scrap dough, working it as little as possible and continue cutting. Bake at 450 degrees, 20 coals on the lid, 8-9 coals in a ring under the oven. Bake until biscuits are tall and light gold on top, 15 to 20 minutes (possibly even 25 minutes because you didn’t have a hot oven, only a very hot lid.) 8

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Mapley Meatloaf

You will need: 12-inch Dutch oven 30 coals (18-20 on lid, 10 coals in a ring under) to make a 350 degree oven 6 chicken thighs, bone in Salt and pepper or Morton Nature’s Season seasoning 1 32-ounce jar of sauerkraut 6 carrots sliced into discs/coins Put about 1/3 of the jar of sauerkraut into the bottom of the 12-inch oven. Place the chicken thighs neatly onto the kraut. Add salt and pepper or Morton Nature’s Season seasoning to taste. Sprinkle the cut carrots around the chicken pieces.

Cover with the remaining kraut. Put the oven onto the ring of coals and cover with lid. Cook for about 1 to 1 ¼ hour until the chicken is done. You will need to replace some or most of the coals on the lid and bottom about 40 minutes into cooking.

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Southwest Cowboy Cobbler

Baked Salmon with Fresh Leeks, Shallots & Tarragon

Heading west we’ll surely encounter the mix of cumin, peppers, and tomatoes in many dishes. Let’s try a cobbler of a different sort that combines these Oh-So-Southwest flavors. Total time about 45 minutes Prep about 20, Cook 20-25 minutes You will need: 12-inch Dutch oven 20 coals on lid, 11 in a ring under the oven Main Dish: 2 tablespoon olive oil 1 medium onion, chopped or sliced 1/4 cup chopped red pepper 1/4 cup chopped green pepper 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon oregano 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 tsp freshly ground pepper 2 cups cubed cooked chicken 1 20-ounce can enchilada sauce 1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes, drained 1 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed

Fresh, pink, tasty and flaky - Salmon says we’re in the Northwest for sure! Topping: 1 15-ounce package Mexican cornbread mix 1 egg 2/3 cup milk 1/2 cup shredded cheese In a 12-inch Dutch oven, heat the oil. Stir in the onions and peppers. Cook until onions are translucent. Stir in the spices. Add the cooked chicken, enchilada sauce, drained tomatoes, and drained/rinsed black beans. Simmer uncovered while you make the cornbread topping below. In a medium bowl, combine the cornbread mix, egg, and milk. Stir until smooth. Fold in the cheese. Drop by spoonfuls onto the simmering cobbler. Cover the Dutch oven. Add enough coals to the top of the Dutch oven lid for 400 degrees. You may need to add new coals to the top to finish cooking the cornbread. Cook until cornbread is done - approximately 20 minutes.

You will need: 12-inch Dutch oven 18 coals on lid, 10 in a ring under the oven 4 6-8-ounce salmon fillets 1/2 bunch leeks, julienned (white part only) 1 shallot, finely chopped 1/4 bunch fresh tarragon or 1 tbsp. dried 1 cup white wine Salt & pepper to taste Cook at 375 degrees. In the bottom of the Dutch oven arrange leeks and shallots into 4 piles. Place salmon fillets on top. Season salmon with tarragon, salt and pepper. Pour wine around salmon and bake until fish is firm but still moist, about 25-30 minutes. Lift salmon and leeks together out of the pan onto plates. Splash some of the cooking liquid over each serving.

Beer Bread

Brats and Beer – this must be the Midwest. We’ll make an incredibly easy and fast Beer Bread!

Baked Salmon with Fresh Leeks, Shallots & Tarragon

Total time about 1 hour Prep about 30, Cook 40 minutes Yield: 1 big loaf of bread You will need: 10-in Dutch oven, 375 degrees 18-20 coals on lid, 8-9 in a ring under oven 3 cups self-rising flour sifted (you have to use selfrising flour only - multipurpose flour won’t work) 1 can (bottle) beer, room temperature and never chilled 1 tablespoon sugar Combine dry ingredients in a bowl. Add beer and mix gently into a soft dough. Don’t overmix. Turn out dough into a greased oven. Set aside 15 minutes to allow dough to rise.

Southwest Cowboy Cobbler 10

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Preheat the lid, bake at 375 degrees for 40 minutes. To test doneness, insert a knife in middle and it should come out clean. Brushing with butter before baking gives out side crust a crispier finish. Tip out of the Dutch oven onto a board or large plate. Cut with serrated knife and served warm. ■

Beer Bread

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Want to Be a

Lucky Winner? Get Out and

Ca mp

Thousand Trails is offering members the opportunity to win a

$1,000 American Express Gift Card

It’s easy ... pay your 2012 dues on time and camp at your favorite TT Preserve to earn entries into our monthly drawing. There is no limit to how many entries you can earn - so Get Out and Camp! Our February winner is Sondra Holtzendorff from Cincinnati, OH Our March winner is Barry Sehlin from Oak Harbor, WA

Tech Topics {

Safety, signal and solar power tips combine to ensure safe and sunny spring travels.

by Paul and Kerri Elders

Now that the spring travel season’s in full swing, let’s take a look at a few tried-and-true tech tips to help you keep your RV in tip-top traveling shape:

LP Gas Detectors

As we all know, RVs feature a wide range of LP gaspowered appliances: everything from ranges and stoves to 3-way refrigerators and LP gas heaters. LP gas (Liquefied Petroleum) is a clean and convenient fuel source, but there are some special considerations to take into account when using it. LP gas is a mixture of propane, butane, and an “odor marker” (that familiar, offensive, garlicky “gas” smell, added for easier leak detection) and sometimes, other hydrocarbons. When pressure is released, LP gas typically expands to about 250 times the volume it occupied in its liquefied state. Since it’s heavier than air, LP gas tends to collect in low spots. Although an extremely rare occurrence, a substantial leak in an LP gas system has the potential to ignite. But, fortunately, most accidents can usually be prevented with a little foresight. Never overfill your RV’s LP gas tanks beyond the recommended 80-85 percent fill point. Periodically inspect your LP gas tank and its hoses and fittings to be sure that all connections are tight and that all hoses are in good working condition. Verify that your RV is equipped with an LP gas alarm and test it periodically to be sure it’s in good working order (manufacturers usually recommend replacing them every five years). Operating much like a smoke detector, this alarm will warn you with a loud audible alarm if LP gas is present in your living area. Many RVs are delivered from the factory pre-equipped with an LP gas detector; if your RV doesn’t have one, you can easily install one yourself in just a few minutes. Be sure to install it at floor level, not at eye level, to take advantage of LP gas’s “heavier than air” nature. If you suspect a leak or if your LP gas detector goes off, immediately turn off all LP gas bottles and have your system inspected and repaired.

Turn Signal Troubles When you pay your annual dues for 2012 in full, you will be entered into our monthly drawing for a $1,000 American Express gift card. There will be one drawing/one winner each month from January through December 2012. In addition, once you pay your dues in full, each time you camp at a Thousand Trails Preserve in 2012, you will receive an additional entry into the drawing. The drawings are limited to persons who are of legal age. The drawings will be held at our corporate office on the 10th day after the end of each month. Winners will be notified by mail or phone. The odds of winning will depend on the number of entries, but are not expected to exceed 1:100,000. Winners are responsible for federal and state taxes on the award. You may also enter the drawings by printing your name, address, day and evening phone numbers, and email address on a 3” x 5” piece of paper and mailing it to the Sponsor in addressed, stamped envelope. You are limited to one mail-in entry which must be postmarked by December 15, 2012. This promotion is sponsored by MHC Thousand Trails Limtied Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL, 60606. 10

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Have you ever tested your turn signals before a big trip, only to find that your blasted blinker wasn’t blinking? The most common source of failure of an RV’s turn signals or clearance lights is corrosion on the electrical connections; a conspiracy of time and moisture. If you’ve checked for burned-out bulbs and found that they’re in perfect working order, you might have a corrosion problem. Fortunately, this is usually easy to see and easy to fix.

Begin by popping off or unscrewing the light’s plastic lens. Remove the bulbs and use fine sandpaper to clean the connections on the bulbs and their contacts. An emery board (cardboard-type fingernail file) works great for this little job. Sometimes, the ground connection (the return path for the electrical current) is supplied by the skin of the RV via the clearance light’s mounting screw, which can sometimes become corroded or rusty. If this is the case, simply remove the rusty screw and replace it with a new one. If the screw isn’t corroded but simply can’t be properly snugged in place, just replace it with a slightly larger screw, being careful not to over-tighten it. After cleaning, spray all connections with WD-40 to help prevent future corrosion, wiping the bulb’s glass surface clean before replacing it in its socket. Clean and replace the plastic lens and, if desired, lay a fine bead of clear silicone on the top and sides of the lens-to-mount joint. Don’t silicone the bottom joint, since this can seal in moisture, ultimately leading to more corrosion.

RV Solar Electricity Options

An RV is an ideal candidate for solar power conversion, whether you plan extended periods of self-sufficient dry camping or simply want to supplement your existing power supplies with the extra juice provided by the power of the sun. Almost all the necessary wiring for a solar power system is already in place in your RV. The 12-volt DC (battery) wiring and the 120-volt AC (household current) wiring in your RV can be used by a retrofitted solar charging system. In a nutshell, the basic elements of an RV solar electric charging system consist of just six key components: 1) Solar modules for collecting solar energy (commonly called solar panels, these are ordinarily mounted on the RV’s roof) 2) A battery bank for storing this collected energy 3) A charge controller (regulator) to prevent overcharging of the battery bank Continued on page 62

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

What makes Sea Pines unique to the area is the sheer size of the property. “We are one of the largest campgrounds around, boasting 550 campsites,” said Sharon. “We also have a large lake for both swimming and fishing, plus a beautiful swimming pool as well as a children’s wading pool.”

he beaches, the boardwalks, the Boss!

The Jersey shore has many claims to fame, including three fabulous locations for you to enjoy while you discover just why people have been flocking to the beach towns that dot the miles of coastline summer after summer.

Again, proximity to Jersey shore attractions also makes Sea Pines a perfect home base for day trips to the charming shore towns.

Lake and Shore, which is situated in Ocean View, offers proximity to the beaches, which are less than five miles away. The resort is also adjacent to a 12-acre lake that offers even more beach fun. But here, the shining jewel, or at least the thing that Manager Jeff Curtin says visitors notice right off is the waterpark and pool complex. “No other campground in Cape May County has a waterpark facility, and there are 35 campgrounds in the area,” said Jeff. “That is one of the things that sets us apart.”

If you want to stay close to home, the amenities at Sea Pines will keep you busy. There’s the newly remodeled lounge with a billiards table, electronic dart board, and giant HDTV, all set in a beautiful beach-themed décor. Activities such as craft classes, sports contests, ice cream socials, weekly “yard sales” and the annual pig roast will keep guests busy too. Don’t miss the Saturday night dances under the stars that feature live bands or DJ entertainment.

Atl antic City

nut Lak

dS L a k e an h S C a e a Pi n p e M es ay

“We’ve been told by our guests that they come back year after year for our big events, like the pig roast and our summer fun carnival-style weekend, but we’ve also heard that our friendly staff is another reason people love to stay at Sea Pines,” said Sharon.

NEWS&NOTES FROM THE PRESERVES

Bay Landing The clubhouse, game room, and bathroom floors have been stripped and waxed for the season. Tree trimming is underway and we are adding patio furniture and BBQ to the Getaway units. We are also painting the benches and picnic tables.

After a day at the shore, a night in the woods sounds like a nice change of pace. Sea Pines, located in Swainton, offers a very wooded, intimate family environment. “Families both young and old love the freedom and the peace and quiet they encounter when they visit Sea Pines whether for a weekend stay, a week or two vacation, or if they are lucky enough to have the time to stay on an annual site all season,” said Manager Sharon Stokes.

Chehalis The Bunkhouse at the Happy Trails Horsecamp section is now available for reservations – it sleeps 10, horses optional. Restrooms are being painted beginning with B restroom. A new water main has been installed to pump water from the water plant up to the reservoir. Chestnut Lake All the greens on the golf course have been redone, there is a beautiful paint job in the clubhouse and we are proud to announce the opening of our new bathhouse!

Chestnut Lake

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Sea Pines

Ginger Tornabene, past president of a local Good Sam chapter, said “Our group returns to Chestnut Lake for the family atmosphere. We like the idea that we are far enough away from the hustle and bustle of the city lights, yet within 15 minutes we can be in Atlantic City.” Bill Christmas, past president of Leisure Travelers echoes Ginger’s sentiments. “We keep coming back time after time due to the warm and friendly atmosphere and the comfortable facilities. We also like the fact that we are so close to Atlantic City,” Christmas said. So there you have it – three absolutely fabulous places to stay when you visit the Jersey Shore. See you soon! n

e or

“Most Saturday evenings we have DJ dance parties on the pool deck,” said Jeff, also noting that live bands entertain on holidays. “We’ve got crafts for youngsters, auctions, potlucks and you don’t want to miss our Halloween events.” According to Jeff, the resort is booked solid during the last three weekends of October. “Our guests like to return year after year for the Halloween events and our annual pig roast during our Hawaiian luau in August.”

C h e st

And while the resort offers plenty of on-site fun, it is important to note the nearness of Atlantic City (just 20 miles away) and historic Cape May (just 10 miles away). After you take in the fun of Atlantic City or the charms of Cape May, you can find just about anything to do at Lake and Shore. The resort has courts of all kind – basketball, shuffleboard, and volleyball, plus biking and walking paths, a stocked lake for fishing, boat rentals, swimming pool, picnic pavilion and more.

Rounding out the New Jersey trio is Chestnut Lake located in Port Republic. What this preserve lacks in size it makes up for in hospitality. However, the size, just 185 sites, lends to a very homey atmosphere. “I think the best compliment we hear is when our guests return each summer, and say ‘it’s good to be home,’” said Manager Victoria McCourt.

Lake and Shore

Colorado River A new dog park is ready for use. The fenced dog run is located near the larger fishing pond, just off the main road between A & C sections, and there is parking for vehicles nearby. Water and “poop bags” are available. A new 8-inch water shut-off valve has been installed in C-loop enabling us to isolate that area in the event of a water leak. Plus, picnic table repair continues as we purchase lumber and repair/paint the existing tables for sites. Gateway to Cape Cod We have recently replaced the doors and windows in the Rec Hall. This update will help make the building more secure and energy efficient.

Horseshoe Lakes All power issues supplying the Wastewater Treatment plant have been repaired and the Wastewater Treatment Plant and all shower/bath houses will be open for the 2012 camping season! Lake Minden We have completed the remodeling on our three Garden homes and have fresh paint, new floors, patio doors, new ranges and a new look. We also finished trimming the trees in all sections. Moody Beach Everything is blooming at Moody Beach. There has been work done on the pool deck and the swimming season starts Memorial Day Weekend. Please remember pool safety and observe the posted rules. We will be re-shingling some of the roofs and doing minor road repairs. Site cleanup continues. We look forward to seeing you! Mount Vernon The Family Lodge has a new look that includes a new countertop on the coffee bar and a new top in the laundry room. Three of the bathrooms have fresh paint! South Jetty The Activity Center will be getting a new roof this summer, start date TBD. Storm damage to Loop A Restroom and Loop A electrical system has caused A restroom to be closed indefinitely and all A loop sites are without power indefinitely. The Adult spa and wading pool remain closed. Our main entrance outbound lane now has a tire ripper installed to prevent unauthorized access to the preserve and Sites 101 through 138 now have new 50-amp electrical service.

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Calendar - May 2012 Cultus Lake

May 5-6: Free Guest Weekend: Members, bring your guests to the preserve for a free site for the weekend (2 nights). We will allow up to 2 free guest sites per membership for the weekend (space available). The members bringing guests and the guests are invited to join the manager and staff for a complimentary hotdog and chips at 12 p.m. on Saturday, and yes we will try and sign them up as member. Remember if we do, the referring member may be eligible for a gift. Please call the preserve directly to participate in this offer at (604) 858-3932 and we will reserve your guest sites. You should make your own reservations. On this special weekend, we will be assigning sites for you and your guest(s). The pool should be open by this time, so bring you bathing suits and enjoy the facilities. On Saturday bring your guests at 5:30 p.m. and enjoy A.Y.C.E. (All You Can Eat Chili dinner). Then at 7:00 p.m. it’s the very popular Karaoke time in the Rec. Centre. May 12-13: Mother’s Day Weekend: Kids, there will be a craft to make for your mom and a wonderful Sunday morning breakfast where mom’s breakfast will be free! Bring the whole family for a nice weekend away for mom! On Saturday evening treat mom to an A.Y.C.E. Spaghetti dinner, at 5:30 p.m. May 19-21: Victoria Day Weekend: Breakfast will be available each morning of the long weekend. On Saturday morning we will have special kid’s crafts commemorating the Victoria Day holiday. At suppertime we will have a “Cook your own Steak Dinner.” We supply the steaks. Please sign up for dinner in the Family Center by 3 p.m. on Saturday. Children’s meals will be available as well, Start cooking at 5:30 p.m., followed by dancing to the Hong Kong Cowboy at 7 p.m. May 26-28: Memorial Day Weekend: Kids’ activities are planned for the weekend. Come and join us on Saturday at 5:30 p.m. for our Second Annual Welcome Back Rotating potluck dinner. This dinner will be a lot of fun and you will really get to meet your neighbor. (If you don’t know what it is, just bring a meal for 10 people and come and find out) Meet old friends and make new ones. Sign up in the Family Center before 2 p.m. on Saturday.

CALIFORNIA Idyllwild

May 11-13: Mother’s Day Weekend: There will be a special Mother’s Day craft at the Lodge and a “Take Mom to Dinner” event at the Café on Saturday night. May 25-28: Memorial Day Weekend: Events include Saturday night entertainment, plus Golf Cart and Bike Parade on Sunday.

Lake Minden May 4-6: Cinco de Mayo/RC Boat Races: Hola Amigos! Bring your favorite nacho topping and join us Friday night for the Nacho Potluck Social. On Saturday celebrate Cinco de Mayo with lots of Latin-themed activities and crafts. Watch the RC Boat Races Saturday and Sunday as the boats race around the lake. Take a beading class and make a festive pair of earrings. May 1113: Hydroplane Boat Races: Join us Saturday for the season’s first Hydroplane Boat Races. These races are a Lake Minden favorite that promise rip-roarin’ fun and heart pounding excitement. Too much excitement? Take a break from the races for Candy Bar Bingo and the Ice cream Social or check out the Craft 16

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Sale. Don’t forget to join us Saturday night for a good old-fashioned Barn Dance. May 19-21: Armed Forces Days: Pay tribute to those who served or are now serving our country in the Armed Forces at a Friday night Potluck Social, followed by Red, White and Blue Bingo. Veterans are encouraged to bring photos for our Salute to Veterans Board and memories to share with other veterans and members. May 25-28: Memorial Day Weekend: Celebrate the beginning of the summer season by packing up your favorite picnic foods and joining us for a Lake Minden Community Potluck Picnic. Test your observation skills on a Photo Scavenger Hunt, enter a Family Paddleboat Race or Volleyball Game. On Saturday, we’ll celebrate with a good old-fashioned Barn Dance.

May 26-27 Marysville Stampede A main attraction since 1933, the Marysville Stampede features some of the nation’s top rodeo cowboys. Competitions will include bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, bull riding, steer wrestling, and team roping. The rodeo will also include WPRA Women’s Barrel Racing and Kids Mutton Busting. Held at Beckworth River Front Park, just 20 miles from the preserve. For information visit www.flyingurodeo.com.

Palm Springs May 1-14: As the days heat up and our season comes to a close we cool down in the mornings with Water Aerobics and Wednesday through Saturday we escape the afternoon temps with matinee movies and popcorn in the Recreation Lodge.

May 5 Brew at the Zoo “Drink Beer. Save Wildlife” - that’s the theme behind the 3rd Annual Brew at the Zoo, one of SoCal’s most popular beer festivals. This year over 1,500 guests will enjoy appetizers, beer and wine from over 35 vendors, live blues music from three states and more. Ticket prices are $40 (members) and $55 (non-members). Event is held at The Living Desert, 47900 Portola Avenue in Palm Desert, just 7 miles from the preserve. Hours are 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. For information call (760) 346-5694.

May 4-6: Horseshoe Tournament: Come throw some shoes and meet some new friends. We will also be having a Craft and Variety Fair. On Saturday we’ll have a BBQ in the Park, John Carter will be at the campfire sing-along and Rhonda Allen will DJ at our Family Dance. Plus, the 4th and 5th are our annual Tractor Days – come see old, restored tractors. May 12-13: John Carter performs on Saturday at the campfire sing-along and Eric will DJ our Family Dance. Mother’s Day includes free French toast for moms. May 18-19: Friday night dinners begin; plus on Saturday John Carter will be at our campfire sing-along and Rhonda Allen will DJ the Family Dance. May 25-28: Memorial Day Weekend: Craft and Variety Fair all 3 days, plus Adult Money Bingo on Friday (put on by the Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary), Saturday Kids’ Fishing Derby, and the first Family Hayride of the season. John Carter will be at the campfire sing-along, Eric will DJ the teen dance and Southern Wing (formerly known as Joanie Lee and the Branding Iron) will be at the Tennis Court for our Family Dance. On Sunday, Eric will DJ the teen dance, John Carter at the Family Campfire and James Slack Band performs at the Family Dance. On Monday we will be serving breakfast and have a Memorial Day Flag Ceremony.

Morgan Hill May 5-6: Cinco de Mayo Weekend includes Friday night movie, Saturday tamale lunch and mariachi music. May 13-14: Mother’s Day Weekend events include Continental breakfast, Flea Market, kids’ craft and music by Mike Noonan. May 19-20: Old Timer’s Weekend events include Friday night movie at the Drive-in, Saturday kids’ craft and entertainment by Elvis. May 26-27: Memorial Day Weekend events includes Family Movie at the P/S on

Regular Friday Night Spaghetti Feed now includes rice and fish on menu. Serving begins at 6 p.m. at Reba’s Cafe in the Family Lodge. Every Saturday and Sunday, from 8:30 to 10 a.m., we have breakfast with a full menu. The first and third Saturday is our Manager’s Meeting at 11 a.m. Ice Cream Socials are every Friday through Sunday at 2 p.m. We also have non-denominational Sunday services at 11 a.m.

Snowflower May 20 5th Anniversary & Annular Eclipse Celebration Sponsored by FiftyFifty Brewing Co., event features bounce house, family games, eclipse viewing, live music and food including BBQ smoked over Eclipse barrel wood, sushi from Drunken Monkey and more. FiftyFifty beer, spirits, water and soft drinks for the kids! $14 Advance purchase, $16 at the door, $8 children. Event is held at FiftyFifty Brewing Company in Truckee, just 30 miles from the preserve. For information visit www.fiftyfiftybrewing.com

INDIANA

Indian Lakes Ponderosa

Lake of the Springs

San Benito

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS CALENDAR

BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA

Friday, Saturday family games including tug of war, sack race, egg toss and music by Gary Carnes at the campfire. Sunday coffee and donuts at the New Adult Lodge, Ice Cream Social and Scavenger Hunt, plus entertainment by the Corvairs, s’mores and bonfire.

May 20 Motherlode Century Amazing Bike Ride This annual event held each year the weekend before Memorial Day, through rolling ranch and farmlands, takes bicyclists through El Dorado County’s most beautiful landscapes. The 31-mile loop is an easy pedal with a fantastic panoramic view of the valley, while the 67 and 100-mile loops add a remote canyon with two rewarding climbs and awe-inspiring scenery. Race starts and ends at the River Park Village parking lot, just across from the preserve. Event runs from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. For information call (530) 545-0698 or visit www.motherlodecentury.com

Rancho Oso Every Saturday from 11 a.m. to noon come on down to the arena to watch the stock dogs herding sheep and cattle and stay for the bucking bull demo! Get up close and personal with our 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 the beautiful resort! They will drop off at the barn for the barn tour and dog & bull demo. Don’t forget to call the stables and book your unforgettable horseback ride for ages 8 & over. Of course, you can get the little buckaroos their first ride on a big horse, led by one of our friendly wranglers too! The wild flowers are blooming, and the weather is perfect for hiking, riding, lounging by the pool or touring our local wineries. Later in the day, join us for wine tasting at the Adult Lodge, or come by the Stone Lodge for the Ice Cream Social to make your favorite sundae! Keep the weekend sweet with our Candy Bar Bingo too!

May 4-6: Café Opens! May 11-13: Mother’s Day weekend features first DJ of the season and free pancake breakfast Sunday morning. May 1820: Welcome Back Weekend events include crafts, games, and a potluck gathering Saturday. May 25-28: Memorial Day Weekend features crafts, golf cart and bike parades, band Saturday and teen dance Sunday with a DJ!

Horseshoe Lakes Throughout May we will have activities every weekend and a Memorial Day Celebration.

MAINE

Moody Beach May 25-28: Memorial Day Weekend: We will have a flag ceremony at the Country Store in honor of our men and women who have served in the Armed Forces for our freedom. Join us for a weekend of games, contests and family! Free flag for everyone. Join us for a cookout on Saturday afternoon at the Patio.

Merrill Auditorium Concerts Scheduled entertainment for May includes Joe Bonamassa, Wednesday, May 23 at 7 p.m. and Bonnie Raitt, Thursday, May 31 at 8 p.m. Merrill Auditorium is located just 30 minutes from the preserve at 239 Park Avenue, Portland.

MASSACHUSETTS Gateway to Cape Cod

May 4-6: Fly a Kite Weekend: Bring your favorite kite or purchase one in our Trading Post and challenge a friend to see who can fly the highest! May 11-13: Mother’s Day Weekend: Join us for a special Mother’s Day tea party MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

NORTH CAROLINA Green Mountain Park

May 19-27 Rhododendron Festival and Norman Rockwell Exhibit More than 100 varieties of rhododendrons are in bloom on over 100 acres at Heritage Museum and Gardens. Also showing in the Special Exhibitions Gallery are more than 150 artworks by Norman Rockwell from May 5 through Labor Day. Heritage Museum and Gardens is located in Sandwich, just 20 miles from the preserve. For information call (508) 888-3300 or visit www. heritagemuseumandgardens.org.

May 18-June 7 Harbor Your Arts – Artists Shanties Open! Visit individual artists to view and purchase their unique works, including paintings, photography, ceramics, jewelry, stained glass and more. Shanties are located in Hyannis on Ocean Street/ Bismore Park, just 40 miles from the preserve. Weekend hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. From June 7 through Labor Day event is daily. For information call (508) 862-4678 or visit www.hyartsdistrict. com.

Sturbridge May 1: Luck Duck Day: Just $5 per duck. May 4-6: Cleanup Weekend: We will be painting and cleaning. Saturday night BBQ.

May 8-13 Brimfield Antique Show The largest antique show in the country – there is something for all, big and small. Food is great and there are long fields of antique treasures. For information call (508)867-6439.

NEW JERSEY Chestnut Lake

May 12-13: Mother’s Day Weekend: Free breakfast for mom! May 25-28: Memorial Day Weekend includes BBQ, auction, games and the pool opens!

May 19-20 Mayfest Held in historic Smithville, just 4 miles from the park, event features live music, food, children’s events and over 150 vendors. Event hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. For information call (609) 6527777.

Lake and Shore May 11-13: Mother’s Day Weekend: There will be plenty of games and crafts for the children to enjoy while all the moms relax or join in on the fun! May 18

25-28: Memorial Day Weekend: It’s time to kick those winter blues and bring on the sun! Come and enjoy all the fun including a BBQ potluck, crafts, games, contests and pool parties.

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

May 12: Mother’s Day Celebration. May 26: Memorial Day Weekend activities.

Fort Defiance Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, come visit one of the country’s most unique historic places. Saturday reenactments. For information call (828) 758-1671. Located in Lenoir, just 5 miles from the preserve. Open May through October.

OREGON

Bend/Sunriver May 25: Horseshoe Café opens! The café will be open for lunch every day and dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings, plus breakfast on Saturday and Sunday. May 26: Annual Dog Show. Bingo and live entertainment rounds out the Memorial Day Weekend. Plus, our pool is open!

May 5 The Seaside Art Walk Takes place on the first Saturday of each month from 5 to 8 p.m. as galleries, shops and restaurants host artists, authors and musicians. Participating locations often provide tasty treats and beverages. Maps for the Walk are available at participating businesses, the Seaside Chamber and Seaside Visitors Bureau. For information visit www.seasidechamber.com.

May 19 Seaside Downtown Development Wine Walk! SDDA invited Oregon wineries to come to Seaside and set up inside downtown businesses to pour samples of their best wines for the public. The businesses provided the hors d’oeuvres and the event was a go! At 3 p.m. the Wine Walkers are off and the fun begins! The event lasts for 4 hours, giving everybody plenty of time to visit each winery. The wineries are allowed to sell unopened bottles, so if you find a new favorite you can take a bottle home with you! For information visit www.seasidedowntown.com/ winewalks

Pacific City

Whalers Rest

May 5: Run for the Roses: Enjoy the Kentucky Derby on the big screen TV. Snacks provided or bring your favorite Derby snack to share. May 12: Rocks, Sand & Salt Weekend. Create your own beach collage from your treasures brought back from the beach. May 26: Indy 500: Race your cars on our track then watch the race on the big screen TV. Enjoy the sounds of Graber (formerly Faithful Heart), Souter & Rupp Western Gospel Music.

May 25-27: “Whalers Salutes American Heroes” weekend will be jampacked for our Memorial Day celebration. Join us Friday night with our group campfire fun. Start your Saturday right with breakfast in our North Clubhouse. Whalers Galley will be serving from 8:30 to 10 a.m. The Managers Social will be at 11 a.m. and the Newport American Legion Post #119 will lead our Memorial Day remembrance at 11:30 a.m. outside the South Clubhouse. Then at noon we’ll have BBQ Lunch and a carnival for the kids. Whalers Galley will be open for dinner at 5 p.m. in our North Clubhouse. Enjoy Dr. Delusions Magic performance in our South Clubhouse at 7 p.m. May 27: Catch a yummy breakfast in our North Clubhouse at 8:30 a.m. We will have worship service at 9 a.m. in the Chapel downstairs in the North Clubhouse.

Seaside May 9-23: The Pacific City Ramblers join us once again to host a Membergenerated “support your property” event. Its theme is to take the next step for the Family Fire Pit area. They will be supporting the efforts of the property’s installation of five new BBQs around the Fire Pit that will be used by all! We will be adding the BBQs, additional picnic tables and landscaping the area! During their stay at the property there is always fun to be had! Christopher & Minda will be cooking breakfast on the weekends and we are sure to have a few extra BBQs and socials organized! May 13: Mother’s Day Weekend: Treat Mom to Breakfast! Bring the Family! Keep the kids busy, or join in with pool, basketball toss, foosball & ping pong games. May 26-28: Memorial Day Weekend: What better way to spend the start of summer than coming to the coast. There will be fun for the whole family to enjoy this weekend including, games, prizes, s’mores party, BBQ and more! On Saturday we will all be a rock ‘n rollin’ Storm ‘in Norman! And at the same time we will be lighting up the fire pit and cooking some s’mores!

PENNSYLVANIA PA Dutch Country

May 4-6: Potluck Weekend includes Friday night Candy Bar Bingo, SaturdayCeramics class ($), wagon ride and our first potluck of the season. May 1113: Stuff and Fluff Weekend includes Saturday ceramics class ($), workshop to make a Teddy Bear ($), and a wagon ride. May 18-20: Ladies Tea Party Weekend features Saturday ceramic class ($), wagon ride and our famous Ladies Tea Party. May 25-28: Memorial Day Weekend events include pool opening, site decorating contest, parade, wagon ride and Men and Machine Band perform by the pool.

TENNESSEE Natchez Trace

Every Saturday at 10 a.m. – kids’ crafts. Also, every Saturday from 4 to 6 p.m., enjoy delicious supper served at Town Hall. May 5: Cinco de Mayo Fiesta with Karaoke at 7 p.m. May 12: Mother’s Day – all day beauty expo. May 19: Casino Night. May 26: Memorial Day Hog Roast, beginning at 5 p.m. followed by dance at 7 p.m.

TEXAS

Bay Landing May 11-13: Pamper Mom’s Day: Hey moms - kick off your shoes and come to Bay Landing for an enjoyable weekend. We will spoil you with a Mary Kay consultant to order your supplies and maybe a facial! Also, kids can make mom a gift at craft time. Throw away your apron and let Angie do the cooking for you! May 25-28: Memorial Day Celebration: It’s red, white and blue time again. Don’t forget to decorate your rig, cabin or tent for the Best Site Decoration event. Come to the clubhouse for an egg toss, water balloon toss, banana eating and much more! There will be a BBQ, games and contests all day long and into the night with T-Bone Road at Beachview for a little dancing under the stars.

Lake Conroe May 5: Friendly Competition/Happy Birthday Weekend: Let’s enjoy some friendly competition this weekend with Wii sports, board games and, of course, bingo! The kids will be making friendship bracelets on Saturday morning and in the evening, we’ll enjoy a talent show. So bring your friends, your talent and your competitive spirit to Lake Conroe for a fun weekend. May 12: Marvelous Mother’s Day Weekend: Let’s honor our mothers, grandmothers and mothers-to-be this weekend starting with a pancake breakfast at the Cactus Café. And Dads, be sure to bring the kids to the Activity Center Saturday morning where we’ll be making cards and gifts for mom. May 19: Armed Forces Weekend: In honor of all those who have served or are serving in the military, we salute you! Join us for a social hour on Saturday as we show our appreciation for your dedication to our country. May 26: Memorial Day Weekend: We’re kicking off the summer season with a fun weekend. We’ll have hot dogs at the pool and Blackjack County will be here to entertain and play all your favorite singing, dancing and boot-scootin’ music.

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS CALENDAR

on Saturday afternoon. May 18-20: Walk the Trails Weekend: Start on your summer fitness goals by walking or jogging our Walk the Trails loop. Pick up a card in the Trading Post to track your miles and win prizes for your milestones. May 25-28: Memorial Day Weekend: Our first long weekend of the camping season! Enjoy the pool and join us for entertainment on Saturday night.

Lake Tawakoni May 5: Crafts, Bingo, Ice Cream Social, Washer Tourney. May 12: Walk the Park, Mother’s Day Card Craft, Ball activities. May 19: Walk the Park, Candy Bar Bingo, What’s Happening Meeting, Hot Dog lunch, Washer-Horseshoe Tourney. May 26: Pledge of Allegiance, Coffee and Sweet Rolls, Craft, Kite Flying, Ice Cream Social, Washer Tourney, BBQ Dinner and Trey Houston performs.

First Monday Trade Days Held at the Canton Fairgrounds, just 30 miles from the preserve this event is one of the world’s largest trade days.

Medina Lake May 12-13: Mother’s Day Weekend: Kids, let’s make mom a gift. Moms, come compete with your kids in lawn games. On Sunday moms get a free breakfast when dad and the kids come to eat the Top of the Trail Café. Then we will have a “How well do you know your mom” game. May 26-27: Memorial Day Weekend: Let’s decorate our bikes and carts for a parade in the park. We’ll celebrate with banana splits during our Ice Cream Social. Then let’s play some water games at the pool. On Sunday we’ll tap our toes and twirl around the dance floor with an evening dance. MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

May 19 Military River Parade Held on the San Antonio River Walk, approximately 25 professionally decorated floats, themed according to the branch of service, veterans support groups and recent military conflicts, will travel down the River Walk. Floats will feature live entertainment from military groups, as well as local artists. Free to view. Parade runs from 3 to 5 p.m.

WASHINGTON Chehalis

Every Saturday enjoy matinees at 1 p.m. in the Adult Lodge. All ages welcome! The Spa is open and daffodils are springing up all over the preserve! May 11-13: Mom’s Weekend: Bring mom to the Ultimate Ice Cream Social, and her sundae is free! We’ll be honoring her all weekend with special movies, crafts, and activities. Country Store is open Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. May 25-29: Remember our Heroes! Memorial Day Weekend: We’ll be in full swing this weekend. Pools, store and Café are open. Lots of fun activities for the kids, and for the first time at Chehalis – CARAVAN entertains Saturday night at the Family Lodge. Come join us as we kick off the camping season at the park.

Grandy Creek May 11-13: Mother’s Day: Come out and treat Mom like the queen she is. Make her a special gift at craft time and be sure to bring her to breakfast on Sunday when moms eat free! May 25-28: Memorial Day Celebration: Let’s start the summer right with 3 days of non-stop fun for all! There will be crafts, games, tie dye t-shirts, a movie on the lawn, bingo, hayrides, breakfasts and so much more. Be sure to take part in our Red, White, and Blue parade by decorating yourself and/or your bicycle!

La Conner May 12: Bring your Mom down to the Family Center for Mother’s Day Tea. May 19: Queen Victoria’s Birthday: Let’s celebrate with a birthday cake! May 25: First Campfire and Hayride of the season, plus enjoy s’mores while you listen to Amy Hindman sing at the campfire.Hayride leaves from the Family Center (weather permitting). May 26: Veteran’s Appreciation Weekend: We will be making “Old Glory” t-shirts. Come on down to the Family Center in the evening for a dance with DJ Charlie Moore.

Little Diamond May 5: Fishing Opens! Bring your poles and come fish our stocked lake. Fishing Derby with prizes, plus chili feed and hot chocolate to end a great day of fishing. May 12: Mother’s Day Breakfast – moms eat free. Make mom a special craft. May 25-28: Memorial Day Blast from the Past events include Doo Wop, Donut Stop, Peggy Sue Sundaes, Rockin’ Robin Craft Time, The Fonz 3 on 3 Basketball Hoop Fest, Around the Clock Pool Party, Rock ‘n Roll Sock Hop, and an outdoor “drive-in” theater. Don’t forget the poodle skirts and leather jackets for this event.

Mount Vernon May 5: Mother’s Day Victorian Tea: Join us for our second authentic Victorian Tea, with Scones, Devonshire Cream, Lemon Curd, tea sandwiches, lavish desserts, and china at its best, plus prizes, and a fashion show! Wear a hat for this day to remember. Seating by reservation only! May 13: Mother’s Day Brunch: We are planning a special brunch for Mom from 10 to noon. May 19: Victoria Day Celebration: Celebrate with our friends from the North with a birthday wish. May 26: Opening Weekend: Share all the fun of our opening starting with breakfast, then all the festivities of the day. There will be crafts, tie dye, the pool will be open, a great dinner planned followed by the “Reptile Man “sharing his expertise educating young and old about his animals. May 27: Memorial Service: Once again we have our own display for those who have served and given the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Join us to pay tribute.

SPRING GULCH

FOLK FESTIVAL

May 17-20, 2012 26th Anniversary

May 5 Kids’ Fishing Derby Sponsored by the City of Sedro-Woolley, kids ages 14 and younger can fish at Northern State Pond just outside of Sedro-Woolley and only 15 miles from the preserve. Bring your own bait and gear. For more information visit www.sedro-woolley.com or call (360) 856-5167

Mid May Sedro-Woolley Farmers Market Held at Heritage Square, just 15 miles from the preserve, market features goods. For information visit www. sedrowoolleyfarmersmarket.com.

THEME WEEKENDS

It’s Theme Weekend time again! Our preserves are in full swing for the season and have all kinds of great theme weekends planned. Looking for a luau? How about a pirate adventure? A trip back in time to the Wild, Wild West or Christmas in July. There is so much in store you won’t believe all the fun you’ll have. For a complete listing of theme weekends, visit the Thousand Trails website at www.thousandtrails.com.

2012 entertainment Ramblin’ Jack Elliott Dry Branch Fire Squad Nathan Williams & the Zydeco Cha-Chas Archie Fisher Magic Slim & the Teardrops Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk

Runa The Sweetback Sisters John Flynn Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxer Pat Wictor Chuck Brodsky ...and many others to be announced

BOOK A 7 NIGHT STAY FOR $185/COUPLE or $25/COUPLE for a day ticket (Friday, Saturday or Sunday) (Limited availability. Must check-out no later than May 24, 2012. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Offer not valid on rental units. Reservations required. Use promo code TBFF12)

FOR RESERVATIONS CALL 1-866-864-8524 Event will be held at the Spring Gulch Resort 475 Lynch Road New Holland, Pennsylvania

www.SpringGulch.com 20

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Spotlight | New Camp Gear

s warm weather starts to creep in and plans for Memorial Day appear on our calendars, we can officially start to gear up for the 2012 camping season. Reach into your closets and grab some of the camping equipment you made so many memories with last summer, the summer before, and possibly up to 15 summers before that. How is your gear faring? Is the quick fix you made during one of your last trips still holding up? If not, there is plenty of new gear on the market this season that is ready to take on the outdoor lifestyle with you! From all-inone cooking systems to powders that change the color of your campfire, the products coming out this year are sure to make your season a memorable one.

Boulder Creek Hiker 4 Plus Four Person Tent with Vestibule

This lightweight tent measures out to be 9-feet by 7-feet and is a perfect fit for four campers. The vestibule offers ventilation with dual zippers, a large opening and screened windows. Polyurethane coated walls and rainfly combine to deliver a feeling of comfort while sleeping in the great outdoors. The tent’s door has two built-in mesh storage pockets, and the tent itself comes with a drawstring carry bag that allows you to move from place to place with ease. www.basspro.com

Coleman Portable Motion Sensor Security Light

Whether you’re tent camping at a preserve or hosting a campout in your own backyard or basement, a sense of security is important. The portable motion sensor security light illuminates when motion is detected up to 20 feet away. Run by AAA batteries, this is the perfect addition to any tent site to ward off outdoor inhabitants or any spooks that may stop by a young camper’s slumber party. www.basspro.com

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Corn Popper

We all know that the old faithful award of campfire snacks goes to the s’more. However, popcorn popped over a crackling campfire certainly comes in as a close second. This popper’s handle features a wooden grip to keep you comfortable while waiting for your treat to finish. With an easy opening slide lid, the end product can be easily poured into a large bowl and passed around the campfire. To store the device, remove the handle and keep inside the corn popper. www.coghlans.com

All-in-One Cooking System

This easy, all-in-one cooking system includes a stove, grill grate, griddle, stock pot/warmer and a carry case. All removable cooking surfaces are dishwasher safe. When space is truly what you’re looking for, this compact cooking system allows you to bring a variety of surfaces in one convenient package. It is propane powered with InstaStart matchless lighting and can cook for 2-4 people at a time. www.coleman.com

REI Camp Chair

This heavy-duty chair weighs less than nine pounds and is crafted with a coated steel frame. The nylon mesh fabric dries quickly, and also helps to avoid pools of water if a camper leaves the chair outside during a rain shower. Available in four colors, the REI camp chair is the perfect addition to any campsite. It comes in a compact carrying case to make travel simple. www.rei.com If you’re looking to add a bit of fun to the mix, try out the corn popper or campfire FX. Planning on tent camping? Give the Boulder Creek Hiker Tent a try, and stay safe with the motion sensor. Do a quick inventory check of your camping gear and make sure everything is ready to get out and camp – just like you are. And treat yourself to some new gear in 2012 and enjoy the season! ■ by Annie Colletti

Campfire FX

Looking for a way to liven up your campfire and campfire stories? Imagine watching the flames dance through hues of blues and greens. Or, picture a young camper’s face as the campfire changes to a bright green during the scariest part of a traditional campfire tale. Take your campfire to the next level with Campfire FX, a blend of copper salts that come together to weave green, purple and blue into your traditional campfire. The colors last up to 30 minutes! www.campfirefx.com

Camper’s S’mores Grill

Gone are the days when your marshmallow slides off its skewer into the unforgiving campfire. The S’mores Grill keeps all three essential s’more ingredients – graham cracker, chocolate and marshmallow – in place while cooking over the fire. Simply hold the s’more grill over the flame and remove when the graham cracker is slightly toasted. A sliding lock ring helps to keep the grill closed. www.coghlans.com

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER 23

Carnival, or hanging out at home in Northern California with his wife, Lori and two sons, Hunter and Ryder, Guy and his family love to explore California in their beloved Sightseer (which they’ve upgraded with Tracvision mobile satellite television and multiple flat-screen TVs inside and out). We caught up with him at home just before he blazed his way back on the road for Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

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. THIS MONTH, WE CHATTED WITH “CULINARY ROCK STAR”

What are some of your favorite things onboard your Sightseer?

John Lee Pictures

The reason we bought the Sightseer was because of the bunk beds for my two sons. They have their own little sleeping quarters and don’t have to break out the couch every time. It works out perfectly.

GUY FIERI

uite simply, food star Guy Fieri is on fire. Whether it’s with hit shows like Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and Minute to Win It, best-selling cookbooks and sold-out road shows, creative burgers at sea with Carnival Cruise Lines, or grilling in the great outdoors outside his family’s 34-foot Winnebago Sightseer, Guy Fieri is a fiery sight to be seen.

Making great hamburgers, French fries, and more at sea using special recipes he created for Carnival was another recent challenge the star chef relished. “Having never been on a cruise ship before, I wasn’t sure what to expect,” Fieri recalls. “But when I met with the Carnival team, all my questions were eliminated. The people I was dealing with truly understood my culinary style.”

Fieri has been cooking up a storm since the age of ten—selling soft pretzels from “The Awesome Pretzel” cart that he built with his father. He says he earned enough money selling pretzels and washing dishes to study (and eat) abroad in France. The hospitable Californian, with trademark bleached blonde spikes, also got a degree from University of Nevada Las Vegas in Hospitality Management.

The new dining option made its debut this past fall onboard Carnival Liberty and is being added to many more Carnival ships in coming years as part of the line’s “Fun Ship 2.0” fleetwide enhancement program. Burgers, of course, are the star attraction at Guy’s Burger Joint—and diners can select from several different kinds of handcrafted hamburgers and cheeseburgers, with each recipe custom created by Fieri. There are also lots of toppings and condiments, as well as hand-cut French fries prepared onboard.

He opened his first Johnny Garlic’s Italian-leaning restaurant in Santa Rosa, California in 1996 with business partner Steve Gruber. Their Windsor location opened in 1999 and their Roseville hotspot came in 2008. They also developed Tex Wasabi’s (think southern barbecue meets California sushi) in Santa Rosa in 2003, with a second location in Sacramento’s Arden-Arcade. Winning the 2006 second season of the Next Food Network Star catapulted Fieri far beyond California’s borders. Guy’s Big Bites, his mega-hit ode to road food, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, and many other Food Network shows followed, as did NBC’s Minute to Win It in 2010 and this year’s Rachael vs. Guy: Celebrity Cook-Off, back on the Food Network.

Located adjacent to the ship’s main pool area, the décor of Guy’s Burger Joint is imbued with the chef’s passion for car culture and his California roots. Life-size surfboards and car elements like car bumpers, grilles, and chrome pipes adorn the walls, while car hoods hang on the ceiling over the two condiment stations. Servers wear old school mechanic uniforms with their own personalized nickname featured. Along with his newfound love of ships, Fieri loves cars. The ubiquitous 1967 red Chevrolet Camaro convertible Fieri used for years on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives was actually owned by the show’s former producer— and trailered to most show shoots. Recent shows have found him in his own ’68 Camaro, but he also has more than a half-dozen other vehicles in his California garage (including a 2011 Camaro). When he’s not in on the road filming, holding court in one of his restaurants, enjoying his various vehicles, cruising with

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Where do you like to go in your RV?

We go dirt biking. We take it camping and biking a lot. We also use it quite a bit as my portable ‘green room’ when I do appearances— as a staging area. I also used it when I opened up one of my restaurants. That was great!

Are there any states you haven’t been to?

I’ve heard Montana is one of the most unbelievable places in the world and we’d love to get there. One thing I’d love to say about RVing—I encourage more road trips. Just get out there and see it. Meet the people, eat the food, see the sites!

to build me a ‘pullout kitchen,’ where I open one of the pullouts and out comes some burners and a stove! The flavor of my food, as big as I make food, and the style that I cook—I bring a barbecue and a three-burner stove. I’d love to see a portable kitchen on the side of our RV!

Has anyone ever approached you at a rest stop or somewhere and asked to see your rig?

The entertainment center that I have under my rig has a huge flat screen TV on an articulating arm, with big speakers. People typically come up and ask if it comes on all Winnebagos—before they even recognize me!

What’s the best DDD name you’ve ever heard?

That’s impossible! We’ve done over 500. Gorilla Barbeque [Pacifica, San Francisco]; Chino Bandido [Phoenix and Chandler Arizona]; Joe’s Gizzard City [Potterville, Michigan].

Do you have a favorite DDD genre, like barbecue, southern, meat & three, or a specific ethnic style?

That’s like [asking], “What’s your favorite meal?” It’s honestly a cross between the ethnic places—like Italian, Asian, and Mexican—and the All-American ones—barbecue, meat-and-threes, and all that.

Do any favorite DDD places really stand out in your mind?

I’m a west coast guy, so there have been a tremendous amount of them from the west coast. Catelli’s [Geyserville]—the kid that opened it used to work for me. Hank’s Creekside in Santa Rosa. Café Citti in Kenwood. Duarte’s in Pescadero. Hodad’s Burgers in San Diego—awesome place. Pizzeria Luigi [two locations in San Diego]—another awesome place. Tommy’s Joynt in San Francisco—great place!

Do you generally like to take the highway or scenic routes?

In Florida, I love Ted Peter’s Famous Smoked Fish Smokehouse [South Pasadena] and I don’t normally like fish like that. Tampa Taco Bus—great place. Alpine Steak House [Sarasota]—they make the turducken. Havana Hideout [Lake Worth]—another crazy place.

What’s your favorite meal to make onboard?

In Pennsylvania, Nadine’s [south side of Pittsburgh]—like that joint. Kelly O’s [also in Pittsburgh]—gotta’ check out her version of haluski (a traditional Polish dish with noodles, cabbage, onion, and bacon)—awesome girl!

I’m typically towing a trailer and I don’t like going fast in the RV anyway, so it’s more typical that we’re in the scenic mode.

Here’s what’s funny—we’ve never cooked one meal inside the RV! We’ve made coffee and I think oatmeal. Otherwise we cook everything outdoors. I’d love for my friends at Winnebago

TO WHAT DO YOU LIKE E DO ONBOARD WHIL

EN ROUTE?

ually uctor. My family’s us I drive. I’m the cond le bit or games. It was a litt messing with iPads und in ew up traveling aro different for me. I gr camper. the family cab-over

Hitting the high roads and high seas are similar, so many RVers also love cruise travel. Tell us about Guy’s Burger Joint onboard Carnival Cruise Lines ships. I’m stoked to be partnering with the team from Carnival. They understood what it takes to make a top-notch burger—quality ingredients and a great attitude. The best part was putting the concept together and seeing it run on the ships incredibly well. They’ve gone from averaging 200 to 300 burgers a day to 700 to 1,000 or more. Boy did we kill it! n by Lynn Seldon

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

El Popo “After reaching 5,000 feet in less than 5 hours, we took pictures. Dean was in shape. After all, he walks miles looking for birds. I was not in shape,” said Noble “and while I reached the top I realized we had some shaping up to do. After that, Dean and I would run a mile behind the jeep each day.”

STARTING OFF ON THEIR AMAZING 6-CONTINENT TREK ON JANUARY 25, 1959, NOBLE AND DEAN HAD NO IDEA WHAT LAY AHEAD. AS NOBLE JOKES NOW, “I HAD AN 8-PAGE ITINERARY THAT WAS PLANNED FOR A COMPLETE CIRCUMNAVIGATION OF THE WORLD, THROUGH 75 COUNTRIES, IN 15 MONTHS.” AS YOU KNOW FROM OUR APRIL ISSUE, THAT 15 MONTHS WOULD EVENTUALLY PLAY OUT OVER 1,116 DAYS – A BIT MORE TIME THAN THAT AMBITIOUS 8-PAGE ITINERARY ORIGINALLY CALLED FOR!

A bit about the camera thief: The hitchhiker they picked up in Tehuantepec rode with them for 2 days and when they bid adios to the rider, they soon found Dean’s camera was gone, as well. Returning to the town of Tuxtla, they searched hotels and motels and all around the town looking for their hitchhiker. They found him registered at a motel and decided to wait for him to return. “He let us search his hotel room,” said Noble, “but we did not find the camera. Our hitchhiker friend, however, appeared a bit nervous, presenting us with numerous small gifts while Dean looked around the room. That didn’t sit right with us, so Dean asked to return to the room and found his camera between the mattress and the bed

GLOBAL NOBLE PART 2

rom California on South! As mentioned in our April issue, the truck was already overloaded before Noble and Dean even left the sunny climes of California. When they embarked, the truck carried: • 1 2 gallons of water in a tank below the washbasin •A 3-piece AMPEX stereophonic tape record (to tape bird calls) • A tape player and two large speakers • Two 5-gallon Jerry cans of extra gas • A 40 gallon, specially built, gas tank • 200 pounds of books, •A 4 cubic foot refrigerator (to keep the 40,000 feet of 16mm color film cool in the desert locales) • 2 spare tires • 2 bunk beds measuring in 6’4” long, complete with a light for night reading • 5 still cameras • 3 movie cameras, plus tripods • Food supplies for one month • 2 batteries (so there was a fully-charged battery at the start of each day) • A tow chain • Miscellaneous tools 26

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

springs.” They decided not to turn the camera thief over to the authorities, thinking that might result in a delay in the trip while they waited for trial, so the pair departed Mexico and headed to Guatemala. “Our first country in South America, Guatemala, had many beautiful parts, including Tikal, a recently discovered Mayan ruin that was still being excavated,” said Noble. “Of course we wanted to see that, and Dean had the opportunity to possibly sight the rare Orange-breasted Falcon and the Keel-billed Toucan.” So the pair hopped aboard a DC-3 and were taken to the jungle. “Dean got to the see the Toucan and I got to see for the first time just what inconvenience Dean would go through to see a new bird in the wild!” On to Panama – where the pair would accomplish an amazing feat. Read more in our June issue! n

In addition to the supplies, Noble had four letters of introduction – one from Vice President Richard Nixon, one from the Mayor of Los Angeles, Norris Poulson, one from the L.A. Chief of Police, Bill Parker and one from the Chancellor of the University of Southern California, Dr. Rufus B. von KleinSmid – letters which would come in handy later in the trip (keep reading!). Most importantly, they carried with them “an unbeatable spirit,” according to Noble. Heading south, they made their way to Arizona, all the while becoming more aware that the overloaded truck was going to be an issue. In Phoenix they stopped and reversed the spring shackles to allow two additional inches of clearance (something they would find themselves doing many, many more times during the 3-year trek).

Keel Billed Toucan

On to Mexico where they encountered a hitchhikerturned-camera thief and took on the task of climbing Popocatepetl, an extinct volcano peaking at 17,749 feet. Tikal pyramid, Guatémala. iStockPhoto/ © Bruno-Ebran MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

America! ENJOY

White Bird, Idaho White Bird is a small, rural town in north central Idaho that is rich in western hospitality, outdoor adventures, and a sense of community. Residents and visitors enjoy the annual rodeo on Father’s Day weekend and the Days Celebration and Parade on Main Street on the same weekend. From parades and rodeos, to summer days of fishing, running the Salmon River in a raft or the Snake River in a jet boat, the people, the events and the action make visitors return time and again.

“America’s Finest Discount Camping”

proximity to the bars, restaurant and antique store in a nice old-fashioned setting. About a mile out of town, Hells Canyon Jet Boat Trips and Lodging has full-service hookups at the spot the White Bird Creek empties into the Salmon River and they also conduct thrilling jet boat rides on the Snake River in nearby Hells Canyon. About another mile down the road (Old 95), Swiftwater RV Park offers RV spaces directly on the banks of the Salmon River complete with grassy lawns and large willow trees. All three campgrounds feature beautiful starry nights that will take your breath away. Lodging is available at Hoots Cafe on Highway 95, Vacation Suite at Canyon House at the entrance to town, the White Bird Motel in downtown White Bird, and at Hells Canyon Jet Boat Tours and Lodging about a mile out of town. Learn more about White Bird at www. visitwhitebird.com; and to find out more about the rodeo, go to www.whitebirdrodeo.com

Strolling through town, there’s the 100+ year-old IOOF Hall that serves as the community center for events like the Annual St. Paddy’s Day Sausage Breakfast, family weddings, art shows, reunions, memorial services, and more. Across the street is the quaint and wellstocked White Bird Antiques in a building that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There’s also the historic Mac’s Supper Club with a glorious old-time bar transported to White Bird from afar, the Silver Dollar Bar, which is a local watering hole where friends gather, play cards and share stories and at the entrance to town is a coffee, espresso and gift store with unique things from nearby and around the world. White Bird has a growing and talented art community with the Annual Salmon River Art Guild Art Show and Sale taking place during White Bird Days Parade and Celebration on Saturday, June 16, 2012. The Community Library is well stocked and offers free WiFi access to visitors. There are three privately owned campgrounds in the area. Downtown, Angels Nook RV Park offers close 28

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Explore Canada with RPI

Enjoy America! makes quality camping more affordable with 50% savings on regular overnight fees for RV sites at participating campgrounds. Your 50% discount is good for the duration of your stay, one night only, or a few days on a space available basis as specified by each park. Enjoy America! is included in RPI Plus, RPI Preferred, RPI Preferred Gold and RPI Preferred with Resort Connections programs. This program is available to anyone and can be purchased on its own for only $39.95. Call RPI at 1-888-643-6569 for more information. Visit www.enjoy-america.net to view all the participating campgrounds.

Not an Enjoy America! Member? Join Now for Only $39.95 1-888-643-6569

America! ENJOY

If you want to experience a new culture, in fact a whole new country, while at the same time being immersed in immense natural beauty, a trip across the western reaches of Canada is the ticket. Start in British Columbia, which reaches from the Pacific to the Rockies. BC is home to a geographical diversity and a temperate climate that lends itself to a vast array of activities and explorations. Mountains, rivers, beaches, forests, parks and lakes … you name it. Plus there is cosmopolitan culture, world-class exhibitions, fine shopping and fabulous dining. With RPI membership, you get access to the finest RV resorts in America as well as the best that Canada has to offer, and all at reduced rates. RPI provides the gateway to adventure and enchantment, making indelible memories for your entire family. It’s part of what brings RVers to RPI in such large numbers. On your vacation to the Great North, you can stay with Holiday Trails RV Resorts, Canada’s largest network, all with highly rated locations full of every amenity imaginable. Start just north of the U.S. border outside of Vancouver, at Bridal Falls, and head northeast into Alberta. You’ll be surrounded by some of the most beautiful country in the world, such as Glacier National Park, the headwaters of the Columbia River and Lake Louise. Bridal Falls Camperland RV Resort is at the base of Mt. Cheam in the stunning Fraser Valley, and a leisurely hike from the famous Bridal Veil Falls. Also close by are such attractions as the Bridal Falls Waterpark, Minter Gardens, Harrison Hot Springs and great golf, shopping and dining. Then travel northeast to Sunshine Valley RV Resort and Cabins set in a gorgeous natural valley near Hope, BC, and outside the Manning Provincial Park with its amazing hiking and ATV tails that are directly accessible to the resort. Area waterways are perfect for swimming and canoeing, and transform into readymade skating rinks during the winter. Sunshine Valley’s RV sites are augmented by 10 deluxe, fully contained cabins. Outside, you can visit fun places like Othello Tunnels, Hell’s Gate Airtram and Hope Slide Lookout.

Continue in the same direction, and pass into beautiful Alberta, with its rolling foothills, majestic peaks and renowned resort towns. Stop in Drumheller, a paradise for dinosaur hunters, home of the Royal Tyrell Museum of Palaeontology, and home to Dinosaur Trail RV Resort, located just past the museum.

Situated on the Red Deer River in the heart of the Badlands, the resort is mere minutes from the rich region’s wonders such as Reptile World, the Ghost Town of Wayne, Homestead Antique Museum and, of course, the World’s Largest Dinosaur. It’s all a treat for young and old. These resorts are normally only available through your RPI membership. However, RPI arranged for TT members to visit these exceptional locations on a onetime visit up to 7 nights, at the RPI rate of $10 per night. Advance reservations are required and are on a space available basis thru RPI at 1-800-456Not an 7774. So start making memories that will last a lifetime for you and your family!

RPI Mem ber? Add RPI Basic for Only $79 or RPI P lus for $ 89

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

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

A SHORE THING By Kim Wuchter With thanks to MTV, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s now hard to think about the Jersey Shore without thinking of Snookie, The Situation and fist-pumping dance moves. But the real Jersey Shore is so much more. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a beloved destination for families, stretching from Sandy Hook in the north to Cape May in the south. The 127 miles of shoreline are generously sprinkled with beautiful barrier islands, sandy white beaches, lively boardwalks, historic lighthouses, and fun amusement piers.

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Photo courtesy of Wildwoods Convention Center

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

ach city along the Jersey Shore has a completely different culture, says Robert Hilton, executive director of the Jersey Shore Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Different nationalities have settled the towns along the coast so each one offers something unique. From horseback riding and paintballing to old fashioned boardwalks and amusement parks, the Jersey Shore has something for everyone,” Hilton said. Here’s a look at a few of the standout destinations that the Jersey Shore has to offer:

SAND AND SURF The big question for a lot of folks is “where is the best place to spread out my beach towel?” According to 2011 Travelers’ Choice awards by Trip Advisor, Cape May was named as the second best beach in the U.S. and ninth in the world! According to the website “it’s the antithesis of the Jersey Shore you’ll see on TV—instead of nightclubs and tanning parlors, you’ll find Victorian mansions and a famous lighthouse.” A favorite activity for tourists is collecting Cape May “diamonds” along the beaches. They can be found at Sunset Beach and other beaches in the area and are actually quartz pebbles that wash down from the Delaware River. You can find them for sale in tourist shops polished or even as faceted stones. Another interesting fact is that from Sunset Beach you can watch both the sunrise and the sunset over the water. To help keep the beaches pristine, beach tags are required at many of the Jersey Shore beaches, including the beaches in Cape May. This may come as a shock to some folks from the West Coast who aren’t accustomed to paying for beach access. But from Memorial Day through Labor Day, beach tags are required in Cape May for all beachgoers over age 12. In season, the beach tags can be purchased at any beach entrance from beach patrol crews. The cost last year was $5 per day with discounts for multiple day passes available. When the beach crowds disappear in the fall, Cape May becomes a bird watchers heaven as hundreds of migrating birds visit the area. Cape May is said to be one of the top bird watching areas in the Northeastern United States, with more than 400 identified species. A good place to start is the Cape May Observatory.

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

For music lovers, Asbury Park is a great destination. The city has been described as a melting pot for music and music lovers, from blues to gospel and rock-n-roll and ethnic music of all kinds. One of the must-sees is the legendary Stone Pony, a music venue once frequented by Bruce Springsteen and Jon Bon Jovi. Other small venues include The Saint and The Asbury Lanes, which continue the tradition of offering live, original music. One of the town’s biggest events is the annual Bamboozle Festival, May 18 to 20. It’s one of the East Coast’s oldest and largest music festivals, and features a main stage on the beach and eight other stages covering the best in pop, rock, comedy and more. Headliners this year include Bon Jovi, Foo Fighters and Blink 182. Single day pass and multiple day passes are available online in advance. Visit 2012.thebamboozle. com.

FOR NATURE LOVERS

Photo by Deborah Goodsite

THE MUSIC SCENE

If you want to escape the crowded boardwalks and thrill rides, take a trip to Sandy Hook. This park is located on the northern tip of the Jersey Shore on a thin peninsula that stretches seven miles into the lower New York Harbor. The undeveloped land is a mix of salt marshes, forest, and nice beaches. It has an old military fort and good opportunities for fishing, biking, hiking and birding. The park, which is part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, attracts more than two million visitors annually who enjoy its historic landmarks and natural areas. Body surfers and surf anglers prefer the ocean side while the calmer bayside is preferable for windsurfing, parasailing, jet skiing and boating. The park has extensive hiking trails and bike paths with bike rentals.

As you drive into the park, tune your radio to 680 AM for information about the day’s programs and historical tours. Take a stroll around Fort Hancock, a National Historic Landmark, where you’ll find a museum, two old gunneries and a restored home on Officer’s Row. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, you can tour the Sandy Hook lighthouse on weekends, which is the oldest operating lighthouse in the United States. Keep in mind that on weekends in the summer, it’s best to arrive early at the park as the parking lots can fill up causing the gates to close.

THE PARTY SCENE If you are looking for a party atmosphere, Seaside Heights on the northern end of the Jersey Shore is the happening place. It’s most notable as the location for MTV’s reality show, “The Jersey Shore.” If you are there during filming, you might even spot one of the famous guidos and guidettes. Just look for the huge crowds! As seen on the show, you’ll find neon-lit dance clubs pump out music till the wee hours of the morning, and during the day, the bustling boardwalk is lively and colorful. In fact, some say the best activity here is just people-watching. You’ll find every kind of fried food imaginable from deep fried Oreos to deep fried pickles, plus there are the usual pizza shops and other carnival eats. The beach is clean but beware of the opportunistic seagulls that are skilled at stealing food. Other attractions include two amusement piers, a waterpark, arcades and souvenir and t-shirt shops.

SQUEALS AND THRILLS Second to the beach, families love the Jersey Shore for its amusement parks. Point Pleasant Beach, just

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

a short drive from Seaside Heights, is a family favorite with wide, clean beaches and a mile-long boardwalk lined with dozens of rides, games of chance, a fun house, miniature golf and Jenkinson’s Aquarium. A short drive inland, Jackson entices thrill seekers with three major amusement parks -- Six Flags Great Adventure,Wild Safari and Hurricane Harbor. This Six Flags is reportedly America’s largest seasonal theme park with more than 200 rides, shows and attractions. The Wild Safari is the world’s largest drive-through safari outside of Africa that’s home to more than 1,200 exotic animals roaming on 350 acres of simulated natural habitat. The Family Vacation Critic website named Wildwood’s Boardwalk as the #1 Boardwalk for families. The article noted that the two-mile boardwalk “has everything you could want, from funnel cakes to game houses and enough amusement rides to rival Disneyland.” The amusement park, called Morey’s Piers, is spread across three piers. All together there are more than 100 amusement rides, from kiddie rides to extreme roller coasters. Two outstanding water parks, Ocean Oasis and Raging Waters, offer

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

speed slides, lazy river rides, splash pools, and just about every ride you can imagine for getting wet. Plus, there are private cabanas to rent, tropical music and live entertainment.

A SURE BET If you are feeling lucky, Atlantic City is the gaming capital of the east coast that hosts 30 million visitors a year, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. Here you’ll find ritzy casinos, pampering spas, world-class entertainment and loads of nightlife and fine dining. The hottest new casino in town is the Revel, which just opened in April. This multi-million dollar extravaganza features 1,100 guest rooms, 46 retail shops, 12 restaurants, three clubs, a 28,000-squarefoot spa, two theatres and a 150,000-square-foot casino woven within multiple layers of entertainment venues and more. Even if you’re not a gambler, you can still win big in this seaside resort. Relax and unwind at one of the decadent spas, where you can find everything from chocolate body scrubs to couple’s side-by-side massages. Catch a show by big name entertainers at one of the casinos or enjoy one of the free concerts offered throughout the city in the summer. Coming in May are acts such as George Lopez, Russell Brand, Joan Rivers, Penn and Teller and Florence and the Machine, to name just a few. Take a “rolling chair” ride on the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk, which USA Today named the “nation’s best boardwalk.” It’s the longest boardwalk in the world and is lined with bars, boutiques, confection shops and historic sites. Other

highlights include the famous Steel Pier Amusement Park, free beach access, and New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse. A couple miles outside of town, be sure to check out Lucy the Elephant, a roadside landmark. It’s six stories and for a small admission price you can actually climb inside and explore. If you climb the internal spiral staircase you can enjoy a nice 360 degree view from the top.

CITY CHARM If you would like to check out some great historic treasures along the coast, check out Cape May. The whole town is a National Historic Landmark with over 600 Victorian buildings and homes. Trolley tours and horse drawn carriage tours are a great way to see the town’s gingerbread details. There’s even a popular evening ghost tour. For a closer view, visit the preserved 1879 Emlen Physick Estate, the only Victorian house museum in town. It gives a peek into how folks lived 100 years ago. On the northern Jersey Shore, Ocean Grove boasts tree lined streets and the largest assemblage of authentic Victorian architecture

Photos courtesy of Cape May Chamber

in the nation. The town was originally founded as a camp getaway for Christian groups in 1869. In 1977 the town was entered into the National Register of Historic Places. One of its most impressive buildings is the Great Auditorium, which was built in 1894. Today, the Auditorium hosts numerous concerts throughout the summer. In addition you can enjoy free concerts at the boardwalk pavilion, or take a guided historical walking tour. During the summer, there is always something to do at the beach with sandcastle building contests, boogie board and inner tube races, kite flying contests and volleyball games. Whether you are a high roller or a family looking for wholesome fun, the Jersey Shore is a shore bet for great vacation. The fist-pumping dance moves and fake tans are strictly optional. n

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

DRIVE-INS Oh my!

hen you’re on the road, finding something to eat can be a real adventure. So why not make your next road trip all about the food as you make your way to stay with us? We’ve compiled a list of “good eats” that includes input from not only the ultimate road trip foodie, Guy Fieri, but also picks from our Facebook fans and our preserves themselves. Happy Eating!

Use these symbols to identify who’s eating what ...

★ Guy’s Picks ◆ Facebook Picks ♥ Preserve Picks

Near Russian River Preserve

★ Catelli’s, Geyserville

Features Italian cuisine try the Italian meatball sliders.

S a c rame

★ Hank’s Creekside, Santa Rosa

★ Cafe Citti,

Kenwood Features Tuscan-style Italian, try the polenta.

Near San Francisco RV

“ One of San Francisco’s longest living institutions where turkey is king.”

s An

Near Palm Springs Preserve

★ Gorilla BBQ, Pacifica

♥ Keedy’s Fountain Grill,

Near Idyllwild, Oakzanita and Pio Pico

Near San Benito

Set in a railroad car turned BBQ shack known for authentic pork ribs and beef brisket.

★ Duarte’s, Pescadero

Duarte’s is more than 100 years old! Try the artichoke soup.

◆Crazy Otto’s Diner, Acton ◆Carnitas Express, Menifee

Palm Desert An old school, no frills diner — try one of their Date Shakes.

D ie

♥ The 19th Hole Booze

Near Rancho Oso

♥ Cold Spring Tavern,

Santa Barbara “Serving great food and drink since 1865.”

Near Soledad Canyon Preserve

Near Wilderness Lakes Preserve

s le

and Food, Tres Pinos “ Great food and grub in a tiny California town.”

Near Morgan Hill and Santa Cruz RV

Hodad ’s go e i San d try the bacon rger u b e chees

❝

Guy Fieri: photo courtesy of Food Network

★ Tommy’s Joynt, San Francisco

San Diego Try the bacon cheeseburger.

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

San F r a n ci s c o Sa n t a Cruz

Specializes in breakfast and brunch, noted for Eggs Benedict and their corned beef hash.

★ Hodad’s,

nto

We know this is just a brief listing ... if you’ve got a favorite we missed, drop us a note on Facebook at facebook.com/ThousandTrails.

CALIFORNIA

DINERS &

❞

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

WASHINGTON

FLORIDA

Near Little Diamond Preserve

Near Vacation Village

★ Ted Peters Famous Smoked Fish, The name says it all.

St. Pete

Tampa and St. Pete Offering Tex-Mex foods including tacos, burritos, tostadas and more.

◆Benson’s by the Beach, Long Beach

♥ Bowpicker Fish & Chips,

Near Encore’s Royal Coachman and Winter Quarters Pasco

★ Alpine Steakhouse, Sarasota

Known for TurDucKen, which is a deboned chicken stuffed into a deboned duck, stuffed into a deboned turkey.

◆Paul’s Kitchen, Wauchula

Build your own quesadilla.

Mexican Restaurant, Orlando

Near Thunderbird

◆ Beth’s Café, Seattle

“ They have a 12-egg omelet served in a pizza pan!”

ARIZONA

◆Dos Chiles Grandes, Bridgeport ◆ Pronto’s Italian Restaurant, Bridgeport

◆ The Maltby Café, Snohomish

“Dinner plate sized cinnamon rolls!”

Near Apollo, Casa del Sol West, Central Park, Palm Shadows, Sunrise Heights and Whispering Palms

◆Yesterday’s, Bridgeport

★ Chino Bandito,

Phoenix and Chandler Blends Mexican and Asian cooking

Near Medina Lake

♥La Cabana Mexican Café, Lakehills ♥ Adolph’s, Lakehills,

◆ Catfish Haven, Whitesboro “Family-owned and amazing.”

◆ Catfish Platter, Kingston, OK “It’s awesome!”

Near La Conner

♥ San Juan Lanes Bar & Grill, Anacortes Known for their fish and chips.

c afe y b t the mal , wa

❝

sh snohomi

plate sized r e n din mon rolls! a n n ci

❞

OREGON Near Pacific City Preserve

◆Pelican Pub & Brewery, Pacific City Near Seaside Preserve

◆Big Foot’s Pub & Grub, Seaside “Best prime rib!”

◆Dundee’s Bar & Grill, Seaside ◆The Pig N Pancake, Seaside ◆Relief Pitcher, Seaside ◆Norma’s Ocean Diner, Seaside Near South Jetty Preserve

◆Bliss’ Hot Rod Grill, Florence

“Since 1932”

Near Lake Texoma Preserve

◆ Ramblin’ Jack’s Rib Eye

♥ Quesadilla Factory, Centralia

◆ San Jose’s Original

Near Bay Landing Preserve

Features homemade desserts.

Near Chehalis Preserve

Features a milkshake menu with over 20 varieties.

Near Orlando Preserve

♥ Sidekicks Restaurant, Emory

Astoria Try the beer-battered Albarcore tuna and steak fries.

Restaurant, Chehalis ♥ Dairy Dan, Chehalis

Near Peace River Preserve

Near Lake Tawakoni

“Atmosphere is fun and the food is fabulous!”

Near Long Beach

★ Tampa Taco Bus,

TEXAS

◆ Frank’s Diner, Spokane

ven - texa a h s h s o ned i catf family- zw ing a m and a

❝

❞

Near Bend/Sunriver

♥ Pine Tavern,

Bend Homemade scones and a tree growing through the dining room.

◆Hobo Joe’s, Madill, OK

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

MASSACHUSETTS NEW JERSEY Near Gateway to Cape Cod

♥Cranberry Cottage, Wareham ♥ Crack O’ Dawn, Wareham Breakfast specialties.

Near Lake & Shore

Near Sturbridge

♥Jim’s Flying Diner, Southbridge

♥ Dino’s Seaville Diner, Seaville

MAINE

♥ Levari’s Seafood and American Grill, Tuckahoe

Near Moody Beach

◆ The Maine Diner, Wells

“Best blueberry pancakes, real maple syrup!”

MICHIGAN

2 hours from Bear Cave and Saint Clair

★ Joe’s Gizzard City,

Potterville Family owned since 1960, known for world famous deep fried chicken gizzards.

NORTH CAROLINA

Local landmark specializing in seafood straight from the docks of Cape May.

PENNSYLVANIA Near Circle M

◆Park City Diner, Lancaster Near Hershey Preserve

◆B&W Subs, Campbelltown ◆The Filling Station, Palmyra ◆ Soda Jerk Diner & Dairy Bar,

Near Forest Lake Preserve

◆♥Tarheel Q, Lexington

Hummelstown

OHIO

Near Kenisee Lake

◆ Josephine’s Ristorante, Jefferson “Best lasagna I’ve ever eaten!”

♥ Eddie’s Grill, Geneva

Near PA Dutch

♥ Farmer’s Hope Inn, Mannheim Old stage coach stop – haunted.

Old fashioned diner featuring great grilled food.

SOUTH CAROLINA

Near Carolina Landing

♥ Grits and Groceries, “Real food done good.”

Belton

❝ the

diner e in ine a a m

,m s l wel

blueber ry t s be e s! k a panc

❞

RIGHT IN OUR OWN BACKYARD Coyote Canyon Café, Jamul, CA Pio Pico, in Jamul, California is home to the Coyote Canyon Café that features “good food at good prices.“ Trails End, Gordonville, TX Lake Texoma, in Gordonville, Texas is home to Trails End whose specialties include Corned Beef, Texas-style brisket and Chicken Kiev. The Oaks at Point South,

Yemasssee, SC Friday BBQ featuring a local barbeque “king” serving up ribs, pulled pork, BBQ chicken. Don’t miss the pizza also it is from a nearby award-winning pizza parlor. 40

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

theWESTcoast

Our Member Deals section is the perfect spot for one stop shopping to find special offers at our Encore resorts, as well as other retailers’ discounts available for Thousand Trails members. Watch this section each month to see what’s new as we continue to look for ways to enhance your experience and add value to your membership. Thousand Trails members receive 20%

TALL CHIEF

off daily rates

30% off daily rates for stays of 7 days or more and 10% off the monthly rate

MEMBER DEALS

MEMBER DEALS MAY 2012

at Encore RV resorts and campgrounds. In addition to these standard discounts, we invite you to take advantage of these other great offers.* Call 888-443-7301 to make your reservations!

WI 4

8 1

IN 7

theMIDWEST

YUKON TRAILS

offers RESERVE BY JUNE 30, 2012*

$15/NIGHT MID-WEEK $250 OFF ANNUAL SITE VALID AT ANY ENCORE RV RESORT IN THE NORTHERN U.S.

$299 FOR 6 WEEK STAY

$499 FOR 6 WEEK STAY

(Valid May 1-June 15 or September 6 - close)

ILLINOIS ⑨ O’CONNELL’S YOGI BEAR JELLYSTONE PARK, AMBOY

wisconsin yukon trails, lyndon station

③

wisconsin ARROWHEAD, WISCONSIN DELLS

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

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

PACIFIC DUNES

8 10

SAN FRANCISCO RV

tahoe valley

Come discover the Pacific Coast - from the rugged beauty of Oregon and Washington to sunny California, we’ve got just the place. From desert to mountain, from oceanside to cityside, make Encore RV Resorts your home base while you explore this magnificent coast.

indiana ⑤ TWIN MILLS, HOWE

indiana ⑥ INDIAN LAKES, BATESVILLE ⑦ HORSESHOE LAKES, CLINTON

④

PALM SPRINGS OASIS

(Valid May 1-June 15 or September 6 - close)

wisconsin ② tranquil timbers, sturgeon BAY ⑧ FREMONT JELLYSTONE PARK, FREMONT

(Valid May 1-June 15 or September 6 - close)

$399 FOR 6 WEEK STAY

(Excludes Lake George Escape, Valid Open - Close 2012)

6 WEEK STAY FOR ONE LOW PRICE

CIRCLE NO. 104 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

1-888-443-7301

offers WASHINGTON* ⑥ tall chief, seattle

$15/night $350/monthly stay (Must be completed by May 31)

WASHINGTON AND OREGON BUY ONE NIGHT, GET ONE FREE (Through June 15)

offers CALIFORNIA*

⑧ pacific dunes ranch, oceano ⑨ san francisco RV, pacifica ⑩ palm springs oasis, cathedral city ⑪ tahoe valley CAMPGROUND, lake tahoe ⑫ santa cruz ranch, scotts valley 20% off daily rates 30% off daily rates of stays of 7 nights or more 10% off monthly rates

WWW.RVONTHEGO.COM

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

MEMBER DEALS

thesoutheast

thesouthwest

GOOSE CREEK

SUNSHINE KEY

UT 24

ST. GEORGE

TWIN LAKES

WATERWAY

offers through SEPTEMBER 2012* 20% OFF ALL DAILY RATES

offers VALID MAY - OCTOBER 2012*

ALL FLORIDA PROPERTIES $99/week

40 42 41

Sunshine Key, bIG pine key $299/week

$299/month Through Sept 2012

NORTH CAROLINA TWIN LAKES, CHOCOWINITY

$399 FOR 6 WEEK STAY ㊵

TWIN LAKES, CHOCOWINITY

(Valid May 1-June 15 or September 6 - close)

LAKE MYERS, MOCKSVILLE ㊹ SCENIC, ASHEVILLE ㊸

(Excludes Venture In)

$1500 FOR 6 MONTH STAY ㊵

texas BRAND NEW GETAWAY UNITS -

40 39

32 38 31

$499 FOR 6 WEEK STAY

(Valid May 1-June 15 or September 6 - close)

$119/week Through Sept 2012 (Excludes Venture In, Casa del Sol Resort East and Casa del Sol Resort West)

(Excludes Sunshine Key)

㉚

arizona all OTHER PROPERTIES

2 at Bay Landing, 3 at Lake Conroe, 3 at Medina Lake

texas all PROPERTIES*

Through September 2012 $119/week $349/month 3 for 2 at any South Texas property

(Excludes Venture In, Casa del Sol Resort East, Casa del Sol Resort West, Desert Vista and Valley Vista)

utah ㉔ st. george, hurricane $119/week $249/month

Venture In SHOW LOW, AZ it’s getting hot in the southwest

Come spend the summer with us in cool Northern Arizona

GOOSE CREEK, NEWPORT ㊷ WATERWAY, SWANSBORO ㊶

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

CIRCLE NO. 104 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

1-888-443-7301

WWW.RVONTHEGO.COM

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

SANDY BEACH

14 13

NY PA

16 15

MEMBER DEALS

thenortheast

19 18 17

23 25 22

offers RESERVE BY JUNE 30, 2012*

$15/NIGHT MID-WEEK $250 OFF ANNUAL SITE VALID AT ANY ENCORE RV RESORT IN THE NORTHERN U.S.

(Excludes Lake George Escape, Valid Open - Close 2012)

$500 OFF ANNUAL SITES (Valid for First Time Annuals) ⑬ alpine lake, corinth,

NEW YORK

$1500 FOR 6 MONTH STAY

VALID AT THE FOLLOWING RESORTS: Maine ⑰ Mt. Desert Narrows, bar harbor ⑱ Narrows Too, trenton ⑲ Patten Pond, ellsworth New hampshire Sandy Beach, contoocook tuxbury pond, south hampton

⑳ ㉑

$199/WEEK (May and June 2012) SUN-THURS MID WEEK SPECIAL 1/2 PRICE ON ALL SITE TYPES ⑮ lake george escape, lake (Excludes Holidays and Special Event Dates)

george

6 WEEK STAY FOR ONE LOW PRICE (Valid May 1-June 15 or September 6 - close)

$299 FOR 6 WEEK STAY

new york ⑮ lake george SCHROON VALLEY, warrensburg

SPRING GULCH

alpine lake

Lake George RV

BRENNAN BEACH

$399 FOR 6 WEEK STAY

$499 FOR 6 WEEK STAY

New hampshire ⑳ Sandy Beach, contoocook ㉑ tuxbury pond, south hampton

Maine ⑰ Mt. Desert Narrows, bar harbor ⑱ Narrows Too, trenton ⑲ Patten Pond, ellsworth

(Valid May 1-June 15 or September 6 - close)

new york BRENNAN BEACH, PULASKI RONDOUT VALLEY, ACCORD

⑭ ㉔

Pennsylvania ROBIN HILL, LENHARTSVILLE SUN VALLEY, BOWMANSVILLE

㉕㉓

(Valid May 1-June 15 or September 6 - close)

new york alpine lake, corinth lake george escape, lake george

⑬ ⑮

Pennsylvania SPRING GULCH, NEW HOLLAND

㉒

new york lake george SCHROON VALLEY, warrensburg

⑮

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

CIRCLE NO. 104 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

1-888-443-7301

WWW.RVONTHEGO.COM

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

MEMBER DEALS RETAILER DISCOUNTS Exclusive Coleman Discount Thousand Trails members can now save 15% on their online purchases of tents, camping stoves and more! Exclusive Hertz Program When you rent with Hertz, you can take advantage of special year-round savings through the Hertz Membership Benefits Program. By using the Thousand Trails discount code, you can save whether you reserve online or by phone. Exclusive iDine Savings Simply register any credit or debit card and dine at a restaurant on the program. Afterwards, complete a quick dining review about your experience within 30 days. The more you dine, the higher the percentage you can earn, up to 15%! Visit www.idine.com/trailblazer for details and to enroll. MyRVMarket.com - RV Parts & Accessories 10% off all your purchases for the first year! Get all of your RV supplies and Lifestyle products all in one great store at an affordable price. We look to make your RV experience the best it can be. That’s why we offer great products at great prices delivered to your doorstep. Over 1,000 valuable products for your RV, Boat or Home and growing every day! Sign in as a MyRVMarket Loyalty Club Member and get additional savings with travel and special promotions all year. MyRVMarket is the Exclusive Distributor of the powerful environmentally safe Nature-Zyme products. NationalPetPharmacy.com Trusted by veterinarians and pet lovers alike, NationalPetPharmacy.com is fully licensed and Vet-VIPPS certified for safety as well as quality. Our FDA/EPA approved pet meds are the same ones you get from your vet – but conveniently delivered to your door. Thousand Trails members save $5 on a $20 order with promo code: BLAZER5 PetFoodDirect.com 15% off your order of $49 or more. Get all your pet’s food and supplies delivered to your door with PetFoodDirect.com’s Auto Ship program. It’s the easiest way to shop for all the top brands of pet food (137 brands and counting!), flea & tick preventatives, treats, toys, cat litter, crates, collars, beds, bowls, pet meds, and so much more (16,000 top-quality pet products in all)! (This coupon is valid on everything in our store, except: vet diet foods, prescription and free shipping items, and gift certificates. One time use per customer. Only one promotion code can be applied per order. Not for use with any loyalty or other reward websites.) Discount Code: BLAZER15 Rand McNally The first GPS designed specifically for RVers. Special member discount. Thousand Trails is offering our members a special discount offer on all Rand McNally RVND GPS products. Visit www.randmcnally.com/ELS for more information. TCI Thousand Trails members receive discounts on Michelin tires through the Equity LifeStyle Properties Advantage program currently in place with TCI. TT members should call 1-888532-6435 and reference the Equity Advantage program to receive discounts. 48

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

With the recent economy, satellite television has become an even greater commodity for entertainment. As an RVer you have a need for quality entertainment both when you are on the road and when you are at home. Direct Sat TV, an Authorized DIRECTV Dealer, recognizes this need by providing a simple solution in the form of a package designed to equip your RV and home with satellite television. The package includes an RV Kit, with easy set up for your travels, and a system professionally installed for your home. Better yet, the system shares one monthly fee. The RV Kit equipment is provided free of charge to new DIRECTV customers who also order home service. Current DIRECTV customers may purchase the kit for a nominal fee. The kit consists of a travel tripod, satellite dish, receiver and cable. The kit can be set up by you without professional installation. You simply mount your dish to the tripod, aim it at the southeast sky and connect the cable to your receiver, which is hooked to your television. Instant entertainment is that easy. The home system consists of all necessary equipment for up to 3 rooms. Professional, standard installation is provided for your home.

RV Lifestyle Products at Rock Bottom Prices!

Hit the Road Today and Let US Worry About Your Supplies!

There are several DIRECTV programming packages to choose from to meet everyone’s needs. Packages start at just $29.99 per month for 12 months and range in programming that offers basic satellite television to programming that offers DVR service and HD Access to over 170 HD channels with premium movie channels, exclusive sports programming and local channels (distant network signals for your RV). Promotional package prices are also available with this package for new DIRECTV customers and will be offered when you place your order. After a long day of fun and excitement, wouldn’t it be nice to have an extensive choice of entertainment for a night of relaxation? For more information, please call Direct Sat TV or visit them online at www.DirectSatTV.com/RV or call (800) 279-8601.

myrvmarket.com MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

CIRCLE NO. 137 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

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

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Reader Service

Free Product Information For product information, complete the Fast Facts card circling no more than 25 numbers, and drop in the mail. You can also visit our website www.trailblazermagazine.net for links to our advertisers’ websites. FF# Advertiser

Page

116 Carefree RV Resorts........................51 120 Countryside Interiors.......................63 106 DirectSat TV....................................65 104 Equity LifeStyle..........................42-47 119 Essex Credit.........................62, 63, 64 132 GEICO.............................................68 137 myrvmarket.com..............................49 128 SkyMed............................................67

Answers on page 64

ACROSS 1 Post 5 Eyelashes 10 Rom. Furies 11 Astringent 12 Farewell (2 words) 13 Unassuming 15 E. Indian tanning tree 16 Scheme 18 Modernist 19 Civil War commander 20 With joy 21 Bluish-white metal 22 Ant 24 Hundred (pref.) 25 Rear 26 Council for Econ. Advisors (abbr.) 27 Soap plant 30 Wine vessel 34 Dear (Ital.) 35 Song (Ger.) 36 Federal Aviation Admin. (abbr.) 37 Russ. community farm 38 Unadulterated 39 Fever (pref.) 40 Heavenly 42 Roam 44 Heath evergreen 45 “Fra Diavolo” composer 46 Silk substitute 47 Ogle

DOWN 1 Swed. sculptor 2 Venezuelan copper center 3 John, Gaelic 4 Shin (2 words) 5 Stick used in hurling 6 Sacred image 7 Went first 8 Peaceful 9 Off 10 Jap. news agency 12 Oceanic turnicate 14 S.A. toucan 17 Recline 20 Small flute 21 Ardor 23 Prayer beads 24 Principal 26 Axis deer 27 Top 28 First 29 Planetarium 30 Circuit (abbr.) 31 Once (2 words) 32 Pole in Gaelic games 33 Male noble 35 Rom. poet 38 ______ Rivera, CA 39 Gooseberry 41 Nothing 43 Herb of grace

170 TCI Tire Centers/Michelin..............65 124 Winnebago.........................................4

Answers on page 64

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

CIRCLE NO. 116 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Preserve Services Directory | May 2012 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 yearround, call for quote. Special Events - Perfect location for your family reunions, rallies and birthday picnics. Packages are available for renting our winter lodge for that special birthday. The main lodge is available for weddings, banquets and conferences. We also welcome ski clubs and snowmobile clubs. Call Laura or send email to besh@equitylifestyle.com. On-Site/Dry Storage - Off-site storage available year-round. Call the preserve for information.

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

Annual/Extended Stay - No longer a need to move your RV off-site for one or more years, plus the flexibility to occupy the unit up to 210 nights without contract use restrictions and then stay longer with reservations. Decorate your preferred site or add a storage shed if desired. Order your new Cavco Cedar Cabin and custom design the interior, select your preferred campsite and schedule delivery. Financing available. Contact Ginny to make an appointment. Short-Term Rental - Rent a Cavco Cabin for the month of March for only $750 (savings of $1,580). Contact the Preserve Office for reservations. Special Events - Awesome coastal weather, beach access, clamming, crabbing, beach-combing, professional and friendly service, campsites, rental units and gazebo. We host parties, club rallies, reunions, weddings and retreats for all group outings. A group consists of 4 or more campsites/rentals or any combination thereof. Contact the preserve for more information. On-Site/Dry Storage - Save on gas and take advantage of our RV storage program. $50 for 4 weeks, $300 for 26 weeks or $550 for 52 weeks. Dry storage space is limited.

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

Annual/Extended Stay - The Oregon Coast! Enjoy your own personal site for your RV. Home base for full-timers, improved landscape options available, personalize your site – add a storage shed and/or deck. You no longer need to move your RV. OR buy one of our limited number of vacation trailers for your personal site. 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 52

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

our current specials. Our cabins are available all year long. Special Events - Family reunions, RV rallies, church events, weddings or business meetings. Call Barry at the preserve. 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)

LITTLE DIAMOND | 800-994-6654

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.

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

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

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

CRESCENT BAR | 509-787-4349

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

GRANDY CREEK | 360-826-3554

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

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

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

On-Site/Dry Storage - Limited dry storage. Call the preserve for information. Annual/Extended Stay - Annual site available! $2,600, please call the preserve for details. On-Site/Dry Storage - Off-site storage available on a limited basis. Call the preserve for information.

LA CONNER | 360-466-3112

Annual/Extended Stay - Your very own site on our beautiful resort is waiting for you. Spend your free time on the Skagit Bay, walking on the beach, photographing the resident Bald Eagles, and relaxing in our spa. We have limited sites available so hurry and get one now for the summer season. Our Annual Program now has 210-day usage. Please call Nancy or Kelly 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.

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.

Special Events - The perfect place for a reunion, retreat, church group, birthday party, wedding, RV rally, or corporate/business meeting or party. Great rental units, facilities and food. Call the preserve.

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

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

WASHINGTON

BIRCH BAY | 360-371-7432

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

CHEHALIS | 360-262-9489

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

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

Annual/Extended Stay - Leavenworth still has many beautiful sites available to call your own. Please call the preserve manager for more information. Short-Term Rental - We have monthly stays for 1-6 months at $500 a month, plus utilities. Come enjoy Leavenworth and all its beauty. Special Events - We’ve got the perfect venue for a fun-filled family reunion or a relaxing club/church retreat. Call or send e-mail to lemgr@equitylifestyle.com. On-Site/Dry Storage - RV Dry Storage available for $5 per day, $30 per week or $75 per month. Call or send e-mail to lemgr@equitylifestyle.com.

Annual/Extended Stay - Stay in sunny, beautiful Eastern Washington! Annual and extended stay sites available. Call Mike at the preserve.

LONG BEACH | 360-642-3091

Annual/Extended Stay - Only minutes away from the grand Pacific Ocean, surrounded by gorgeous nature and a rich history of pioneers past. Don’t miss out on your chance to have your own place at the beach. You can have your own personal RV site where your rig can stay year-round and you can occupy your rig for 210 days of the year! No more hassle storing your rig and just think of all the money you will save on gas. We are also introducing a special 3 month rate during the off season. Stay 3 months for only $350 per month. Call Kate at the preserve for details. Short-Term Rental - Feel at home in one of our Vacation Trailers or Thousand Trails Cabins. Start planning now! Next summer will be here before you know it and we don’t want you to miss out on all the great festivities and events here on the Long Beach Peninsula. Call the preserve for rates. Special Events - Planning a reunion, wedding, special event or a trip with a bunch of friends and family? Long Beach is the place for you! We have plenty of RV and tent sites as well as cabins and trailers available for rent. We are right off the beach and close to historic downtown Long Beach. For more information, call Kate at the Preserve Office.

PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY - NORTHWEST

NORTHWEST

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.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Save on gas with our dry storage sites. Available year-round at the low price of $45 a month or get two months free when you sign up for a year for only $450. Call the Preserve Office for details.

MT. VERNON | 360-724-4811

Annual/Extended Stay - Come enjoy our preserve with beautiful forest settings and views of the mountains where wildlife parade through. Relax in your own personal site now up to 210 days. Walk the trails or relax in the large swimming pool and spa. Please call Kelly King at the preserve to get your site. Special Events - Perfect site with all amenities – we do it all! For any of your SuperHost needs, all events, weddings, anniversaries, reunions, rallies, birthdays, banquets and more, with catering available. Call Cookie at the preserve. On-Site/Dry Storage - Call Donna at the preserve. Short term also available when you are taking a cruise.

OCEANA | 360-289-3504

Annual/Extended Stay - Walk down to the beach for some quiet time away from all the hustle and bustle. Park your RV 12 months at Oceana. Stay up to 210 days a year with ìno time outî. For the BEST PRICE on the WA coast for a full hook-up site with 50-amp power call Dale Graham at the preserve. Short-Term Rental - A limited number of sites are available starting at $350 per month, plus elec. for the summer season. Call Dale Graham at the preserve. On-Site/Dry Storage - RV Storage $40 per month without electric (dry) or $50 per month with electric (limited sites with electricity and may be subject to availability). MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Annual/Extended Stay - Save on fuel, extend your stay at Paradise for $550 per month, or consider leaving your rig year-round with an annual lease. Call the preserve for more information. Special Events - Starting to think about your family and friends gatherings? For more information call the preserve. 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).

TALL CHIEF | 425-222-0778

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

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

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available year-round. Fenced secured area at $75 per month. Call to reserve at site.

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

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual personal RV sites are still available at a starting price of $2500, plus utilities and taxes for the year (some restrictions apply). See Norm or Lisa in the office. Short-Term Rental - Through March 2012, come stay in one of our beautiful park models. We are offering a stay of three (3) nights for the price of two (2) nights (only applies to your first three (3) nights.) Offer is not available with other discounts, rebates, coupons, or any other free rental offer.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

Annual/Extended Stay - Variety of sites available – 1-3 year leases, sewered and non-sewered sites; utilities not included. Snowbird Program: $425 per month, plus electric, includes one honeywagon dump per week. Call the preserve for more information. Special Events - Family reunions, church outings, company picnics, wedding receptions. Call Sonia at Special Events.

SOUTHWEST

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

VERDE VALLEY | 928-634-8158

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

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. 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: Quarterly for $120. Call the preserve for information.

Annual/Extended Stay - Extend by the month on a 30-amp for $350 or 50amp 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.

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

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

On-Site/Dry Storage - We offer storage in the preserve at a daily, weekly, monthly and 6-month rate. Check at the office or Ranger Station if you are interested. During the off-season we have dry on-site storage available in the preserve.

ARIZONA

CALIFORNIA

LAKE OF THE SPRINGS | 530-692-1852

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

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

PALM SPRINGS | 760-345-1682

Annual/Extended Stay - Nestled In the Coachella Valley, surrounded by the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains, you will find our preserve. It Is the perfect place to spend your winter, with average temperatures In the 70s and beautiful blue skies. Centrally located so you can be at the beach in a few ours, or visit Joshua Tree National Park in the high desert. Personals sites are available for the month or season. Call the preserve for details. Special Events - Rally groups welcome September through November and April through May. The preserve offers many activities, such as water aerobics, water volleyball, horseshoe pits, pickleball courts and a billiards room. Call the preserve for information.

PIO PICO 619-421-2213 | 800-242-6562 (Preserve Office) 619-421-9672 (Rentals) Annual/Extended Stay - Please call Dave at 800-560-8833.

Short-Term Rental - For more information please call Frank at 619-421-2213. Special Events - For more information or to schedule an event please call Shauna at 619-421-2213. On-Site/Dry Storage - For more details please call Faris at 619-421-2213.

PONDEROSA | 530-642-5830

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

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

RANCHO OSO | 805-683-5686

Annual/Extended Stay - Short-term monthly FHU campsites at $600 per month, plus electric. Annual sites also available at special rates. Call the preserve or send email to romgr@equitylifestyle.com. Short-Term Rental - Check out our new reduced rates for our 29 and 30foot trailers. Special Events - Reunions, youth groups, picnics, retreats, meetings. Private Chapel/Pavilion and courtyard available for events. Stay in cozy cabins, covered wagons or our full amenity kitchenette campers. Call the preserve for details. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage: $75 per month or $750 per year and save $150. Call the preserve for information.

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

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites are still available - only a couple left. Extended Stay $400 per month, plus electric; includes one honeywagon dump per week. For more information call the preserve. Short-Term Rental - Over 200 wineries, close to shopping, casinos, cultural events and world-class dining. 1.5 hours to the Mendocino coast. All TT cabins include one set of linens.

PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY - SOUTHWEST

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

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

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

Annual/Extended Stay - Both our Annual Site and Extended Stay Programs are available. We also have Getaway cabins and other cabins and vacation trailers for the asking. Give us a call and see when we can fit you in. We also have space available for the public and we have tent sites. For any of your questions or concerns, contact the Ranger Station. Special Events - If you’re looking for that great place for family gatherings, youth groups, reunions, meetings, retreats, church gatherings or just your very own special event, such as birthdays or anniversaries, contact our Ranger Station and they can direct you. On-Site/Dry Storage - We do have Dry Storage available for you. Call the Ranger Station for details.

SNOWFLOWER | 530-389-8241

Short-Term Rental - Try something new and stay in one of our cabins or yurts! Cabins sleep four and start at $81 per night mid-week, plus tax; yurts sleep 4-5 and start at $40 per night mid-week, plus tax. Cabins and Yurts are only a short drive to skiing at Sugar Bowl, Boreal, Royal George and Donner Ski Ranch. The yurts have heaters and new mini-fridges for your convenience. Call preserve for information.

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

MIDWEST/NORTHEAST

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

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

Special Events - Have your rally, wedding, picnic, retreat or reunion at our beautiful preserve. Catering for up to 3,000 available. Call the preserve for information. On-Site/Dry Storage - On-site storage no longer available. Dry Storage $75 per month or $750 annual. Call the preserve for information.

TURTLE BEACH | 209-239-0991

Annual/Extended Stay - Limited number of sites available for both annual lease and monthly rental. Extended stay available. Contact Preserve Manager for pricing. Special Events - Contact Preserve Manager for information on accommodations for SuperHost groups and family gatherings. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available for $20 per week or $60 per month.

WILDERNESS LAKES 951-672-4831 (Preserve Office) 951-679-7804 (Special Events/SuperHost)

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available. Fish from the back of your site! No reservations required. You can leave your RV on-site 365 days per year. You may occupy the site 210 days per year. Call Brandie or Dave at the preserve for more information. Short-Term Rental - Discounted rates Sunday-Thursday, excluding threeday holidays. Call for prices or check reservation’s web page. Special Events - Call or send email to wlsh@equitylifestyle.com for your next reunion, retreat, party, seminar, and group rally. Catering available. On-Site/Dry Storage - Call the preserve for information.

NEVADA

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

Annual/Extended Stay - Come HOME to your own private site in FUN City. Year-round sites available in four price ranges. Extended Stay monthly sites available from $475 per month. Call preserve for details. Short-Term Rental - Make your cabin and trailer reservations early; high demand in fall, winter and spring. Call the Rental Office for information. Special Events - Let us make your special event memorable. Have your family reunion, company picnic or wedding in Las Vegas, the entertainment capital of the world. Call the preserve for more information. On-Site/Dry Storage - Call the preserve for information.

INDIANA

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites starting at just $1,200. Please call the Marketing Office. Short-Term Rental - Monthly cabin and site rentals available. Please call the Marketing Office. Special Events - Church event, picnic, weekend retreat, youth group gatherings, meeting, reunion, birthday party, anniversary party, or wedding ~ no matter what your event, we have the facility you need. Please call Michelle at the preserve.

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

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 - 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 - RV storage available starting at $35 per month. Quarterly, semi-annual, and annual rates available. Call Michelle at the preserve.

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

HORSESHOE LAKES | 765-832-2487

BEAR CAVE | 269-695-3050

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Lease Sites are $1,500 for lakefront and $1,075 for non-lakefront. Short-Term Rental - We have 126 sites available (122 full hook-up, and 25 50amp sites - 50-amp sites are $3 per night). Special Events - RV sites, meeting/banquet room, kitchen available for reunions, parties, church groups, weddings, etc. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available starting at $10 per week up to $300 annually.

MAINE

MOODY BEACH | 207-646-4586

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

MICHIGAN

Annual/Extended Stay - Limited annual sites still available. Call for rates. Just 90 minutes from Chicago and only 20 minutes to Michigan’s finest beaches. Reserve now and enjoy one of the most stunningly beautiful waterfront camp reserve sites available. Located on the St. Joseph River with boat launch and docks. Short-Term Rental - 1 and 2 bedroom park model rentals for $59 and $69 per night; 2-night minimum stay on weekends and 3-night minimum stay on holiday weekends. Linen rental for additional fee. 2-4 person, fully-equipped tent rentals available. Call for details.

ST. CLAIR | 810-329-7129

On-Site/Dry Storage - We offer year-round, secure storage for just $440 per year. Our guests can pay in full for a 10% discount or be billed monthly.

OHIO

KENISEE LAKE | 440-576-9030

Annual/Extended Stay - Lakefront for $1,545 and non-lakefront for $1,030. Call the preserve for details. 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 or Connie Higgs 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 now available: $1,250-$1,750. Call Amy for more information. Special Events - SuperHost Facility Rental: Family Lodge $400; Pavilion $100. Call preserve for more information. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage: $300 per year; $150 per six months, or $10 per week. Call the Ranger Station.

PENNSYLVANIA

CIRCLE M | 717-872-4651

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

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

Special Events - Looking for a great place for your next family outing? Look no further than Outdoor World Circle M in Lancaster. Contact Judy at to make your plans. On-Site/Dry Storage - Outdoor World Circle M is not accepting any new dry storage agreements.

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

GETTYSBURG FARM | 717-292-7191

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.

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.

LAKE & SHORE | 609-624-1494

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

SEA PINES

MASSACHUSETTS

NEW YORK

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

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

GATEWAY TO CAPE COD | 508-763-5911

Short-Term Rental - Park Model rentals available starting at $60 per night (some pet units available). Call the preserve for more information and reservations. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available $46 per month or $360 per year. Call the preserve or inquire at the Trading Post.

Annual/Extended Stay - Limited Cottages available so make the call today. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available for $50 per month or $400 per year.

RONDOUT VALLEY | 845-626-5521

PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY - NORTHEAST

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

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.

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

PA DUTCH COUNTRY | 717-665-2500

Short-Term Rental - 16 cabins available for rent. Call the preserve for details. Special Events - Don’t worry about the weather – our large building is available for rent. Building will accommodate square dance groups inside; also available for weddings and other events. For more information, please call Joanne or Joan at the preserve. On-Site/Dry Storage - Off-site Storage is available for $3 per day, $60 per month, and $375 per year. For more information, please call Joanne or Joan at the preserve.

SCOTRUN | 570-629-0620

Annual/Extended Stay - - Scotrun, in the beautiful Pocono Moutnains, has annual sites and on-site/dry storage for the winter (October 30 to April 22) for $600. Scotrun is central to everything and easy access - right off Rt. 80. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage Only. Contact preserve for details.

TIMOTHY LAKE NORTH & SOUTH | 570-588-6631

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

SOUTHEAST ALABAMA

HIDDEN COVE | 205-221-7042

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available - $1,650. For information, call the preserve. Short-Term Rental - Park Model Rentals $60 and $70 per night. For information, call the preserve. Special Events - Hidden Cove offers several planned activities and events year-round, including major holiday celebrations, crafts, bingo, football parties, horseshoe tournaments, holey-board tournaments, potluck dinners, Breakfast at the Clubhouse, campfire sing-a-longs, and more. For information, call the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - We have nine rental log cabins available, for nightly or monthly rental. On-Site/Dry Storage - Rates: $5 per day, $45 per month or $350 per year. Call the preserve for information.

KENTUCKY

DIAMOND CAVERNS | 270-749-2891

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual lease sites available as well as Extended Stay. Call the preserve for more information. Short-Term Rental - Call the preserve for details on short-term rentals.

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 summer where it’s sunny at our beautiful spot close to Savannah, Charleston, and right next door to the historic Beaufort by the sea. Our summer price is very reasonable - $350 per month plus tax and electric. Call the preserve and book now for a great summer. Easy access to/from I-95. On-Site/Dry Storage - We offer on-site storage at $150 per month, plus electric and taxes.

TENNESSEE

CHEROKEE LANDING | 731-376-0935

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

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.

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

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

NORTH CAROLINA

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

FOREST LAKE | 336-988-4135

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites are available! Don’t delay in securing yours now and start enjoying the convenience of annual site rental. Contact Preserve Office for current rate. Short-Term Rental - Cabins, cottages and short-term rentals are available. The longer you stay, the better the price! For rates and availability contact Barb Stanze at the Preserve Office. Special Events - Ask about our special group rates for family reunions, rallies and camping adventures for that special occasion or birthday party! To learn more about these customized camping experiences please contact Barb Stanze at the Preserve Office.

GREEN MOUNTAIN PARK | 828-757-4088

Annual/Extended Stay - Rates are $1,400 to $2,855. Call preserve for details. Short-Term Rental - Vacation cottages for sale at $4,495. Special Events - Call preserve for details.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage only.

NATCHEZ TRACE | 931-796-3212

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites still available - $1,020 to $1,380. Short-Term Rental - Mid-week cabin stay special - $99 Monday through Thursday. Limited Availability. Standard Cabins only. Special Events - Rallies Welcome! Large rental hall facilities available. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry: $5 per day/$25 per month.

TEXAS

BAY LANDING | 940-683-3016

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

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

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

FLORIDA

LAKE GASTON | 252-586-4121

Special Events - We have excellent amenities for any of your SuperHost needs, such as family reunions, weddings, church groups, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, etc. Beautiful pavilions on Lake Bridgeport! Please call Nena. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage Only - $45, plus tax ($48.04).

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

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.

COLORADO RIVER | 979-732-8229

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

Special Events - Function hall, catering, activities and amenities are all yours with our SuperHost Program. For details, contact Beth-Ann McCourt. 58

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available for $2,200 per year, plus tax and electric. Extended seasonal sites available as well. Call Elnor at the preserve for details.

SOUTH CAROLINA

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

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

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual site leases available for part-time or full-time occupancy. Suitable for RV or park models. Also offering Summer Texan extended stays for members only, up to 5 months at $325 per month, plus metered electricity. For pricing and details about Annual sites or 55+ programs, call Marty or send email at crmgr@equitylifestyle.com.

Special Events - Make your family reunion or church picnic interesting and fun for all ages. All family oriented groups welcome. Contact Marty or send email to crmgr@equitylifestyle.com. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available year-round; fenced secure area. Call the preserve or send email crmgr@equitylifestyle.com.

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

Annual/Extended Stay - Extended agreement by month, plus metered electricity. Come stay for up to five months at a time on our Texan Program. The cost is $350 per month, plus electricity. For details contact the Ranger. We are excited about our new annual program at Lake Conroe. You may stay up to 210 days and leave your rig on-site for the entire year. Contact Preserve Office for details. Short-Term Rental - We have four cabins for rent nightly, weekly or for two weeks at a time, for $75, plus tax, per night, for our members and $85, plus tax, per night, for guests. We have nine Getaway cabins for our Getaway members. We also have our Hidden Cove rentals, which are owned by our members and rented by the week or the month. Check with our Preserve Office for details and prices for weekend specials and Hidden Cove Cottage rentals. 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.

PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY - SOUTHEAST

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites available – Standard sites $1,800, plus metered electricty; Premium sites $2,175, plus metered electricity. Vacation Cottage site fee $2,100 per year. For more information, please call Joanne or Joan at the preserve.

PEACE RIVER | 863-735-8888

On-Site/Dry Storage - Marina Storage: one roped-in area at the lake for just $70 per month, plus tax. Dry Storage: $55 per month, plus tax, or $605 per year, plus tax. Contact the Ranger Station. We also have short-term storage at $40 per week where you may store your RV on one of our tent sites and leave your electric plugged in while you are out of the preserve.

LAKE TAWAKONI | 903-598-2800

Annual/Extended Stay - Standard and Premium sites are available. There are electric charges on both. These sites are for 210 days of usage. Marina and dry storage are available for boats. Short-Term Rental - Two rental cabins available. Special Events - SuperHost facilities are available for family reunions and business use for a fee. Contact the BA for assistance. On-Site/Dry Storage - Monthly Dry Storage cost is $42.70.

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

Annual/Extended Stay - Personal Sites available. A year with no time out. *Limited spaces available.* Save on gas, setup, pulling/towing. Please call Nic at the preserve office for information. Don’t delay - sites are rapidly filling up! Short-Term Rental - New rates - call the preserve manager or ask at the office. Special Events - We offer SuperHost programs church groups, family reunions, scout groups, etc. Contact Brynda. MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available. Please call Brynda.

PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY - SOUTHEAST

LAKE WHITNEY | 254-694-4269

Annual/Extended Stay - Our annual/personal site program allows you to camp up to 210 days a year. There are 4 different price ranges depending on the site type chosen. Call us to find out how to get your personal site at Lake Whitney. 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 804-693-9757 (Preserve Office) 804-693-9645 (Special Events) 804-693-6951 (Storage)

Annual/Extended Stay - Seasonal sites: $1,030, plus tax and electric, for the season or $350, plus tax and electric, per month. Short-Term Rental - Short-term rental available May through October. Call Mike. Special Events - Plan your next outing with us! Air-conditioned Rec. Hall open from May through October. Call Mike. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage Only – May 1 to Oct. 12. Call Mike.

LYNCHBURG | 434-332-6672

Annual/Extended Stay - Plan to spend the season with us and enjoy all the beauty, festivals and fun that Central Virginia has to offer. Annuals sites are available for $1,200; premium sites are $1,875. Call the preserve for more details. Short-Term Rental - Spend a month or two and enjoy all the wonderful activities and attractions of the area. Our monthly rate is $300, plus electric. Call the preserve for more information and start making your plans today. Special Events - We offer the perfect place for family reunions, church or company picnics, camping rallies, weddings and receptions, and other special functions. Contact the preserve at or send email to lymgr@equitylifestyle.com and let us help you plan your special gathering today. On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage: $40 per month; $200 for six months $200, $400 for the year.

VIRGINIA LANDING | 757-442-4853

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

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

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

WILLIAMSBURG | 757-566-3021

Special Events - On a tidal river of the Chesapeake Bay, we have 20 rental cabins, tent sites and 30- and 50-amp full hook-up sites. Perfect for group events, rallies and reunions. Indoor and outdoor facilities for meetings and gatherings. Call Special Events. On-Site/Dry Storage - Field storage available year-round. On-site storage available Nov. 15-May 15. Call Storage for details.

CLUB CALENDAR MAY 2012

HARBOR VIEW | 804-224-8164

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available year-round. Annual/Extended Stay - Your best year of camping begins at Williamsburg. Annual on-site program at our beautiful tree-sheltered campground: full hook-up, metered sites begin at $1,750. Vacation Cottage Program offers 28 to 38-foot park models, vinyl or log-sided from $1,499 to $4,999, with a 3-year annual on-site lease. Satellite reception sites still available. Call Gary at the preserve to find out about this month’s TrailBlazer Reader’s Special. On-Site/Dry Storage - Secure and easy access storage for $395 annually with park membership. Call the preserve for more information.

TT SINGLES Central California May 25-28: San Benito, CA June 22-24: Morgan Hill, CA Contact Jane Davis at (209) 467-3278 or email to janedjd@pacbell.net; Becky Staffeld at (408) 253-6995 or email to bstaffeld@att.net. Northwest May 25-27: Leavenworth, WA June 22-24: Mount Vernon, WA Contact: Director Dewey Erlwein at (360) 880-7443 or email to derlwein@peoplepc.com; Winnie Hoyteniuk at (604) 858-9757 or email to winnie@smartt.com (British Columbia); Daphne Bailey at (503) 590-8566 or email to daphnebailey07@comcast.net (Oregon); or Linda Christofferson at (360) 653-3648 (Washington). FMCA Lewis & Clark May 15-18: Whalers Rest, OR June 21-24: FMCA-Coos Bay Rally, OR We are members of TTN and FMCA who meet once a month at various Washington and Oregon preserves. New members who are members of TTN and FMCA are always welcome. Contact Roger Beausoleil at (503) 390-4753 or Schar Olsen at (253) 208-0553 for more information about our fun activities. Southwest May 18-20: Soledad Canyon, CA June 15-17: Rancho Oso, CA Contact Babe Bohner at (909) 797-6437 FUN NITES Fun Nites are social gatherings organized by and for TTN members. Eugene/Springfield Area Round-a-Bouters group For more information call Merry Klum (541) 726-7586 or Leona Todd (541) 844-4277 Pacific City Pacific City Ramblers Ramblers meet the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 5 p.m. at Home Town Buffet in the Tigard Market Place, 13500 SW Pacific Highway, Tigard, Oregon. Contact Charlie Buren at (503) 705-1587, Chickie Dientsel at (503) 286-8566 or Suzy Mulbey at (503) 678-2993. All Portland-area TT, NACO and LTR members welcome. TTN So Cal Weekenders May 4-6: Oakzanita, CA June 1-3: San Benito, CA

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

PRESERVE HIGHLIGHTS

We are a group of TTN members who meet once a month at Southern California preserves. All ages welcome; we have both working and retired members. No dues, just fellowship. email: ttnweekenders@earthlink.net website: http://home.earthlink.net/~ttnweekenders/ TT Travelers May 7-9: Oakzanita, CA June 4-6: Rancho Oso, CA We are retired residents of Southern California who are TTN members. We meet monthly at a Southern California preserve for fellowship, games and potlucks. Please call Darlene Steddum at (805) 714-9038 or email to darjerste@juno.com or Sharon Straite at (562) 899-8298 or email to lesstraite@verizon.net if you are interested in information about our group. TTWest/FMCA May 18-20: Lake of the Springs, CA July 10-12: Snowflower, CA (Weekday Rally) Members of Thousand Trails and FMCA meet at Northern California Preserves bimonthly, except for the “no-host get-together” at Palm Springs Preserve immediately following the FMCA Western Area Rally in Indio, California. Contact Bob Litfin at (408) 2266529 or email to clitfin@USA.com. Reservations are required two weeks in advance. TT of Texas/FMCA May 4-7: Lake Texoma, TX New members must be a member of TTN and FMCA. Contact Connie Farrar at (817) 454-4612 or email to ttnfmcachapter@gmail.com. Our website is: ttnoftexasfmca.com. We also have a blog site: www.ttfmcaralliesandmore.blogspot.com Bounders United (“BUTTN”) Campouts: May 22-25: Russian River, CA June 26-29: Lake of the Springs, CA Wagonmaster will be Tom & Pat Kennedy. “Bounders United/TTN” are TTN members who own Bounder motorhomes and belong to Bounders United. For more information, contact Thomas Kennedy at (360) 7944903 or email at BUTTNs231@gmail.com. TT East Trail Buddies We are an FMCA chapter exclusively for TT Members. We have three rallies each year at TT preserves on the East Coast. For more information, please contact Club Secretary Peter Kamenik at (410) 287-8440 or email to trailbuddiestteast@gmail.com

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

ClassifiedAdvertising

Tech Topics continued from page 13

4) A charging monitor (usually built into the charge controller) that monitors and reports on the system’s charging status 5) An inverter for converting 12-volt DC power to 120-volt AC power 6) Wiring

WORLDWIDE RV TOURS AND RALLIES Mexico, Canada, Alaska, Overseas & USA, Rose Parade, Balloon Fiesta, Kentucky Derby & more! Free vacation guide (800) 952-8496 or www.fantasyrvtours.com

Many RVers find that despite the initial expense of installation, solar power is an appealing, clean, and abundant alternative power source.

FREE DIRECTV & RV KIT for your RV when you get DIRECTV for your home with ENTERTAINMENT Pkg (only $29.99/mo for 12mos). Limited Time! NEW DIRECTV customers only. Restrictions apply. Call Now for details! 1-800-257-4480

Happy trails! ■ Paul and Kerri Elders are freelance writers; visit their web site at RVLinker. com.

Terms and Conditions for 2012 Referral Promotion Terms and Conditions: For each Eligible Referral (as defined), you will receive a $25 American Express gift card. In addition, for each Eligible Referral, you will receive one entry in a drawing for the following prizes: (i) Grand Prize is either a trip to Hawaii or a 7 night Caribbean Cruise, valued at $4,000, includes roundtrip coach airfare for two adults from the continental United States to either Hawaii or Florida, and hotel/cruise accommodations for 7 nights; (ii) Second Prize is a trip to either Las Vegas, San Francisco or Orlando, valued at $2,000, that includes roundtrip coach airfare for two adults from the continental United States to either Las Vegas, San Francisco or Orlando and hotel accommodations for 4 nights and (iii) ten (10) Third Prizes waiving payment of the winners’ annual dues for 2013, not to exceed $499 each. The trips do not include taxes, meals, beverages, transfers, gratuities, activities and other personal expenses. The drawing will be held at our corporate offices on January 7, 2013. The winners will be notified by telephone. The odds of winning the drawing depend on the number of entries and are not expected to exceed 1:10,000. For this promotion, an Eligible Referral is a person who (i) purchases a new Zone Park Pass from us between January 1, 2012 and December 14, 2012, and (ii) lists you as the referring member. This offer is only for members in good standing of Thousand Trails and its affiliates. Due to legal restrictions, residents of AZ, FL, NV, NY, PA and TN are not eligible to participate in the drawing and you will not receive an entry in the drawing for purchases made by residents of AZ, NV, PA or TN. We reserve the right to extend, modify, suspend, or terminate this promotion at any time for any reason; however, any rewards earned prior to the suspension or termination of this promotion will be honored. Employees of Equity LifeStyle Properties, Inc. and its affiliates are not eligible to participate in this promotion. All local, state and federal income taxes are the responsibility of the recipient. Accordingly, we recommend that all participants consult a tax advisor about reporting rewards for tax purposes. We will issue the required 1099 to each participant and to the IRS when the total value of awards you are eligible to receive equal or exceed $600.00 for one year. This advertising is being used for the purpose of soliciting sales of resort campground memberships. This document has been filed with the Department of Licensing, State of Washington, as required by Washington law. Value, quality, or conditions stated and performance on promises are the responsibility of the operator, not the Department. This filing does not mean that the Department has approved the merits or qualifications of any registration, advertising, or any gift, prize, or item of value as part of any promotional plan. This promotion is sponsored by MHC Thousand Trails Limited Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606

Visit the TrailBlazer website www.trailblazermagazine.net

Marketplace

HEARTLAND LANDMARK 2012 Heartland Landmark Grand Canyon. $66,900. MSRP $90,787. True Four Season. 38’ w/ Triple Slides. 42” LCD TV, Central Vacuum, One Touch Leveling, Frameless Dual Pane Windows. Free 2nd Air Installed (In Stock Units Only). www.rvsforless.net 1-877-960-1777 DRV MOBILE SUITES 2012 DRV Mobile Suites 36RSSB3. $88,637.50. MSRP $110,668. True Four Season. 37’ w/ Four Slides. 2 ACs, Frameless Dual Pane Windows, Central Vac, Disc Brakes Fireplace, 4 Dr. Refrigerator, One Touch Leveling, 43’ Units Available, sub-zero rated. Mention This Ad for 10% Discount off M.A.P.! www.rvsforless.net 1-877-960-1777

Like us on Facebook

CIRCLE NO. 120 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

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

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

CIRCLE NO. 119 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

To Advertise in Marketplace Or To Place a Classified Ad email TBads@equitylifestyle.com Deadline for July 2012 Issue is May 5, 2012

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

Oswald & Marilyn Drews

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

Carl R. Walker

of Willow Street, PA

Answers - Sudoku puzzle can be found on page 50

CIRCLE NO. 119 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

Answers - Crossword puzzle can be found on page 50

CIRCLE NO. 170 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

from San Mateo, CA found the evergreen tree on page 38 of the March issue. Send your entry (postcards only) to TrailBlazer Evergreen Tree, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606. Postmark deadline is May 31, and remember — the tree could be a different color and size.

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

CIRCLE NO. 106 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

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!

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

500

illed as “the greatest spectacle in racing” the Indianapolis 500 has been thrilling race fans since 1911. The race itself is run on the Sunday before Memorial Day each May, and is actually the culmination of events held throughout the month, which include several parades in addition to the qualifying races to determine who will actually participate. The race is held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indiana (just outside Indianapolis). The race attracts about 400,000 visitors and is said to be the largest oneday sporting event in the world. If you plan on attending, consider staying with us. Thousand Trails offers Horseshoe Lakes (Clinton) less than an hours’ drive while Indian Lakes (Batesville) and Diamond Caverns (Louisville, KY) clock in at just under a 2-hour drive. If you want to travel a bit further, consider Encore’s Lakeside (New Carlisle) or Twin Mills (Howe) which are just about 3 hours distance from the speedway. Not a bad drive if you consider the race drivers cover over 500 miles in roughly 3 to 3 1/2 hours. Gentlemen (and ladies), start your engines!

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER CIRCLE NO. 128 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

MAY 2012 | TRAILBLAZER

CIRCLE NO. 132 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50