TrailBlazer Magazine - October 2014 by TrailBlazer Magazine

OCTOBER 2014 ■ $2.00 www.trailblazermagazine.net

Autumn Adventures Leaf Peeping and More

A True TrailBlazer: Global Noble L

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OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

WE NEVER STAND STILL. Like RVers themselves, we’re always moving forward. For proof, look no further than the new Winnebago Forza™ and Itasca Solei.™ These all-new models offer the performance and comfort of a highend diesel pusher without the big-ticket price tag. Each double slideout floorplan, the 34T and the bath-and-a-half 38R, is loaded with premium amenities — residential appliances, Corian counters and efficient LED lighting — as well innovative interior features that bring new flexibility to motorhome living. But don’t let their sleek profile fool you: the storage capacity of these coaches is phenomenal: up to 228 cubic feet on the 38R, by far the best in class! See your nearest Winnebago or Itasca dealer, call 800-643-4892, or see our entire lineup at WinnebagoInd.com.

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

CIRCLE NO. 124 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

WHAT’S INSIDE

VOL. 36 ■ ISSUE 9

OCTOBER 2014

Columns

Features

5 Message from Marguerite

30 Encore Resorts: Why Winter with Us

9 Tech Topics

34 Encore Winter Events: Yuma, AZ & South Texas

Lifestyle 10 Who’s In The Kitchen with TrailBlazer? 12 Trailmix: Fall into Fall with Encore

and Thousand Trails

22 Global Noble

38 Leisurely Drives for Leaf Peepers 46 More Fall Fun!

Calendars 16 Preserve Events 20 Local Events 63 Club Calendar

26 On The Road: The Grays 28 I Knew I Was A Trailblazer

Regulars

37 Updates & Upgrades

50 Advertiser Index

66 On Location

50 Crossword Puzzle 56 Member Deals

▲ Who says summertime is the most fun? We’ve put together a few ideas to make your autumn absolutely awesome. Take a drive among the fall foliage, get scared out of your wits at some of America’s most haunted places or go back to the past with a visit to a charming college town. Three cheers for Fall Fun!

▲

52 Ask RV Bill

62 Sudoku Puzzle 64 Winding Roads Yuma, Arizona Off-road sightseeing is just one of the unique opportunities available to guests who visit the Encore RV Resorts in Yuma, Arizona or South Texas this winter. Turn to page 34 and see what else you can do when you winter at an Encore RV Resort.

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

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OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

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MESSAGE FROM MARGUERITE

his issue is all about enjoying the change in seasons. It’s October but there is plenty of camping time left. Why not pick a location that allows you to enjoy a leisurely drive through the fall foliage? There are also great autumn events near our preserves, like apple picking, corn mazes, Oktoberfests, and pumpkin patches. Fall also means the holidays aren’t too far away. Thanksgiving will be here before you know it and the whirlwind of holiday celebrations begin. And then, the reality of winter sets in. So, before you put away your Halloween decorations and bring out the winter décor, plan your winter camping trips now. A recent member survey showed that only 50% of our members are aware of the standard discount they receive at Encore RV Resorts. While all the Encore RV Resorts offer various deals throughout the year, the standard deal applies year-round. Thousand Trails members always receive 20% off daily rates and 10% off monthly rates. Toss in those other special deals and we’ve always got a reason for you to come discover Encore RV Resorts. If you take a look at the map of Thousand Trails locations throughout the country, you’ll find that the majority of the Thousand Trails preserves are heavy in the summer vacation destination areas like the Midwest, the Northeast and the Pacific Northwest. We’ve got you covered for summer fun.

Now, overlay an Encore RV Resorts map on top of that and you’ll find we’ve got you covered for the winter, too! Take a long weekend and go fishing in the Florida Keys – if you don’t want to drive the RV, take advantage of our rentals. Explore the Rio Grande Valley in Texas or enjoy the dry, desert climate and the gorgeous landscape of our Arizona resorts. Whether you drive or stay in a rental, the experience will be worth it. What’s more, Encore RV Resorts really knows how to make winter fun – there are concerts, sporting events, sightseeing trips and, of course, the on-site amenities and activities. We’ve even given you some ideas as to where you’ll find fun in the sun with Encore RV Resorts this winter – check out pages 30-36. So, while you’re picking those apples or carving those pumpkins, heed my words of advice. Visit RVontheGo.com and make your winter plans now! Once that last decoration is put away, you’ll be glad you’ve got a warm, relaxing destination ready and waiting for you. And, if the Farmer’s Almanac prediction for a “refriger-nation” is right, you’ll be one happy, and warm, camper!

Marguerite Nader President & CEO

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

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

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

TrailBlazer Magazine Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800 Chicago, IL 60606 www.trailblazermagazine.net Address Changes for TrailBlazer can be sent via email to TrailBlazerAddressChanges@ EquityLifestyle.com NEW Subscriptions 1-877-252-9320 TTN & LTR Reservation Services (From United States and Canada) 1-800-288-7245 • 228-497-3594 April 1 to August 31 Mon. - Fri. 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. September 1 to March 31 Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central Time 24-hr. STAR Line: 1-800-859-7827 228-497-3594 Member Services 1-800-388-7788 Resort Parks International Reservations 1-800-456-7774 ELS Reservations 1-877-362-6736 PRINTED IN THE USA

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Sunshine Key (FL): Beautiful sunrises every morning. – Rodney Mathews, Crestview, FL

Now Win $50 EACH Issue! Pics from the Parks Photo Submissions Do you have a winning photo from your visits to our preserves and resorts? We’d love for you to share it with us and what’s more, your submission will now be entered into our photo each issue! contest. Winners will receive a $50 American Express Gift Card. Each issue we will select ONE “winning” photo from the submissions received (all submissions must be received by midnight on the last day of the month.) Winning photo will be posted on the TrailBlazer website as well as in the magazine. Photo submissions should include a brief description, including location of your photo, your name, city and state and sent to:

TrailBlazer_photos@equitylifestyle.com or mail to: Equity LifeStyle Properties

Attn: TrailBlazer Photos

Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800

Chicago, IL 60606

Emailed photos should be high resolution. Photos are not returnable and become the property of Equity LifeStyle Properties and may be used for publication on company websites and promotional purposes. One winner will be selected EACH month from submissions received. The winner will be announced in a future TrailBlazer issue and on www.trailblazermagazine.net.

PICS FROM THE PARKS

Chesapeake Bay (VA): This summer my grandkids, Jackson and Molly, enjoyed the Piankatank River. – Jeri Trudeau, Gloucester, VA

each issue!

La Conner (WA): Three generations showing a couple of nice dungeness crabs by the boat ramp at La Conner – Bo Kordel, Redmond, WA

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

THE NATION’S LARGEST SELECTION OF RV BRANDS

Lazydays is known as The RV Authority for good reason. We offer more RV brands than any other dealer in the country, and our service center is second to none. So, whether you’re looking for something to get you away on the weekends or you’re ready to go full time, we have the right RV for you. Visit us online or at one of our locations to see for yourself why more RVers choose Lazydays.

Tampa, Florida: 866.531.6818 Tucson, 855.844.0079 8 Arizona: OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

CIRCLE NO. 165 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

SALES | SERVICE | CAMPGROUND Lazydays.com

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

by Paul and Kerri Elders

This month, we’ll show you a simple way to keep your RV’s A/C running at its peak, give you a few more RV handling tips, and take a look at some self-help ideas to make the most of your RV’s forced air furnace. Let’s get started!

Keeping Your Air Conditioner Operating Efficiently: Your RV’s air conditioner will operate more effectively if you perform just one simple maintenance procedure: keep the return air filter clean. This is a great thing to do at the end of the summertime season, and it’s extremely easy, even for people who aren’t typically “do-it-yourselfers.” RV rooftop air conditioners normally have a small return air filter located at the base of the unit, inside the RV. You can usually see it just by standing under your rooftop air conditioner and looking straight up. It’s generally a rectangular, black, foam-like filter that’s easily removed by gently opening the grill covering the filter. Sometimes, these grills are just attached to the air conditioning unit via Velcro strips. Occasionally, you’ll have to remove a screw or two in order to be able to snap off the cover; check your Owner’s Manual for details. Simply turn off the A/C, remove the filter, and wash it gently with warm, soapy water. Rinse the filter thoroughly with fresh clear water, shake gently, and then air dry. Once dry, replace the clean filter in the grill and re-attach the cover. It’s a good idea to gently wipe the grill with a soft dry cloth before reinstalling it. Use your best judgment when determining when to clean the return air filter; you may want to

do it several times a travel season. Dusty conditions, animal hair, cooking residue, and smoking all contribute to dirty return air filters. Check filters often, and clean as necessary. And remember: NEVER run an air conditioner without the return air filter in place -- it serves an important purpose, protecting the air conditioner’s evaporator coil from dust and dirt.

Easy Does It: Because of their weight and size, most RVs take longer to stop than typical cars and light duty trucks. So, as we’ve mentioned before, it’s vitally important to maintain a safe following distance between you and any vehicles in front of you. Always allow an adequate distance; one that will permit you to stop slowly and safely. There’s no need to throw all of the dishes out of the cabinets, pile all of the food in the refrigerator on one side or the other, or send paper towels spinning off the spool just because you failed to leave the proper distance between you and the vehicles in front of you. In an emergency situation, you must stop as fast as your rig will permit. A good example is an all too common one: those instances during nighttime driving when a deer freezes in your path. The safest way to stop in this type of situation is to apply the maximum amount of braking power while holding the RV’s path straight ahead. Always try to prevent jerking the RV to the left or right in an attempt to avoid hitting the animal. This will help minimize (and hopefully avoid) damage to you, your rig, and the deer. Too many RVers panic and jerk the wheel while applying the brakes, thereby losing control of their RV with dire consequences. Don’t

panic. Stay calm and steer straight while braking evenly and with a little luck both your RV and the deer will be none the worse for wear. And please remember: always slow down when driving an RV at night, especially in wildlife areas.

Keeping Your Furnace Clean: LP gas-fired furnaces, when operated correctly and properly maintained, are extremely safe heating appliances. Here are a couple of simple user tips to keep it operating properly all winter long. Keep yours clean and obstructionfree. Never block the airflow to the heater or from the heater’s outlets with any items like cookie sheets, paper bags, or other excess cargo. This can increase the temperature of the heat in the furnace and cause it to overheat, eventually damaging the heat exchanger. You’ll often find there’s a separate return air grill for the heater (often, it’s located under the dinette). Make sure you keep this grill obstruction-free; it’s the “air supply” for your heater. Never pack items or cargo over it. To keep your RV’s furnace operating properly, it’s important to keep its components clean. Periodically remove the inside air return grill (when the heater is OFF) and inspect the area around the furnace for dirt, debris, lint, and pet hair. Vacuum the area carefully. It’s also a good practice to have the furnace inspected annually by a qualified RV service technician. Whenever the urge to hit the road hits you, you’re just a short stretch of road away from your next adventure. And a few simple maintenance tips can help you keep your RV all fired up and ready to go at a moment’s notice. Happy travels, trailblazers! ■

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Who’s in the kitchen with

TrailBlazer? Did you win The Great Outdoors Cookbook? Check page 62 to see if you are a lucky winner!

But don’t worry if you’re not, the folks at Sunset magazine have generously shared a few more recipes that will be perfect for fall tailgates and get-togethers. If you are interested in purchasing the cookbook, it is available at www.amazon.com.

Beer & Cheese Fondue

SERVES 6 AS A MAIN DISH | 35 MINUTES IN CAMP When you’re having a hang-out-in-camp day, whip up this easy fondue, served with fresh vegetables, fruit, and sausage for dunking in the warm cheese. You don’t need a special pot (the fondue cooks in a regular saucepan on a camp stove), but you’ll need fondue forks or regular forks for dipping.

Ingredients:

• ½ lb. each Swiss and jack cheeses, shredded

Preparation:

• 2 Granny Smith apples, sliced

• 1 tbsp. cornstarch

• 1 Belgian endive, separated into leaves

• 1 tsp. dry mustard

• 2 cups broccoli florets

• ½ tsp. cumin seeds

• 12 oz. kielbasa, cut into chunks

• ½ lb. pain au levain or other artisanal-style bread, cut into chunks

• 1 garlic clove, peeled and cut in half

• 1 fennel bulb, trimmed and cut into slim wedges

• 1 cup lager beer (don’t use ale; it’s too bitter)

1. Toss cheese in a medium bowl with cornstarch, mustard, and cumin. Put bread in a bowl and set fennel, apples, endive, and broccoli on a large plate or board. 2. Brown kielbasa in a large frying pan over medium-high heat on a camp stove, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat; tent with foil. 3. Meanwhile, rub a 1- to 2-qt. saucepan with garlic and leave garlic in pan. Heat beer in pan over medium heat until bubbles start to rise, about 3 minutes. Add cheese mixture a handful at a time, stirring until mostly melted before adding more. When completely melted, reduce heat so fondue barely bubbles. 4. Add sausage to plate with fennel and other ingredients and serve fondue with them and with bread for dunking on fondue forks. As you eat, stir fondue occasionally with a fork to keep it emulsified. 10

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Chicken Enchilada Nacho Bowls SERVES 4 | 20 MINUTES AT HOME; 20 IN CAMP This Mexican spin on the campground classic Frito pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

Chicken and Sauce • 1 medium onion, cut into half-moons • 1 tbsp. olive oil • 1 can (10 oz.) enchilada sauce • 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes • 1 can (15 oz.) reduced-sodium black beans, drained and rinsed • 1 tsp. dried Mexican oregano • 1 canned chipotle chile, minced • 1 tbsp. packed light brown sugar • 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken

Nachos • 8 oz. tortilla chips, coarsely crushed • 1¼ cups shredded cheddar cheese • 2 cups shredded lettuce • ½ cup cilantro sprigs • Lime wedges and hot sauce

Preparation:

AT HOME 1. Make sauce: Sauté onion in oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat until softened, about 7 minutes. Add enchilada sauce, tomatoes, beans, oregano, chile, and sugar and cook, stirring occasionally, until hot and slightly reduced, 4 minutes. Stir in chicken. Let cool, then transfer to a resealable plastic bag and chill. IN CAMP 2. Assemble nachos: Reheat chicken mixture in a pan on a camp stove. Divide chips among bowls and top with chicken mixture, cheese, lettuce, and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges and hot sauce. Make ahead: Chicken and sauce, up to 1 month, frozen. Thaw in cooler.

Turkey

Black Bean Chili

Make ahead: Up to 3 days, chilled; reheat to serve.

MAKES 3 QTS.; 8 SERVINGS | 11⁄4 HOURS AT HOME/IN CAMP Kevin Nelson, executive chef at Terra Bistro at Vail Mountain Lodge in Colorado, refuels guests after skiing and other workouts with this flavorful lower-fat chili.

Ingredients: • 2 tbsp. safflower oil or olive oil • 1 medium onion, chopped • 1 yellow or orange bell pepper, chopped • 1 large poblano chile, chopped • 2 garlic cloves, minced • 1 lb. ground turkey • 2 cans (each 28 oz.) diced tomatoes • 2 cans (each 15 oz.) black beans, preferably reduced-sodium, rinsed and drained

Preparation: • 3 tbsp. tomato paste AT HOME OR IN CAMP • 3 tbsp. chili powder 1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high • 2 tsp. ground cumin heat, on a camp stove if in camp. Sauté • 1½ tsp. agave nectar, or 2 tsp. onion, bell pepper, chile, and garlic, sugar stirring often, 5 to 6 minutes. Add turkey, increase heat to high, and cook, stirring • Juice of 1 lime often and breaking meat into chunks, • Kosher salt (optional) until it’s no longer pink, 4 to 5 minutes. • Shredded cheddar cheese and 2. Stir in tomatoes, beans, tomato paste, chopped cilantro (optional) chili powder, cumin, and agave. Cover and bring chili to a boil, stirring often. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until flavors are blended, 45 minutes to 1 hour. Stir in lime juice. If you like, add salt to taste and serve with cheese and cilantro. OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

TrailMix

Photo courtesy of Robin Reese

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

▲ Winter Quarters Pasco (FL)

Fall into Fall with Encore and Thousand Trails

o matter your fall pleasure, be it leaf peeping, defying the corn maze or visiting small towns awash in color and charm, Encore RV Resorts and Thousand Trails offer the perfect place to stay for your autumn adventures. Read our features starting on page 38 and see which delights suit you and then choose a place to stay.

CALIFORNIA If you’re planning to tackle “the coolest maze on the planet,” in Dixon, look to the three preserves that are nearby. Lake Minden, in nearby Nicolaus, is a pet-friendly location that has plenty of beautiful walking trails to keep your autumn amazement going. From an activity standpoint, the October theme weekend events at Lake Minden offer more fall-themed fun, including a costume barn dance, scavenger hunt, and chili cook-off. A glimpse of a wild turkey or two may be in store for you if you select Lake of the Springs, in Oregon House. Nestled in the foothills of the Sierras, fall is the perfect time to visit this resort, which comes complete with a 120-acre private lake. Another foothills location option is Ponderosa, in Lotus, California. Situated on the south fork of the American River, it’s perfect for a leisurely kayak after you’ve completed the corn maze challenge. Taking in a college town? Take it SLO and visit the charming lifestyle that is San Luis Obispo and then keep the relaxed feeling going as you cruise on south to Encore’s Pacific Dunes. Rolling sand dunes and gentle ocean waves will lull you to a peaceful sleep as you make this your camp.

FLORIDA ▲ Lake of the Springs (CA)

The Smith Family Ranch in Lakeland is conveniently located midway between Tampa and Orlando so there’s nothing to be “cornfused” about when selecting a place to stay while you visit the farm’s corn maze. There are plenty of Encore and Thousand Trails locations to choose from. In the Tampa/St. Pete area, try Vacation Village or Winter Quarters Pasco. Another option is Silver Dollar RV Resort in Odessa, where you can try your hand at trap and skeet shooting at the resort’s on-site club. For Thousand Trails options, consider Three Flags, which is north of Lakeland, or Peace River, which is south of the maze location. Consider combining your maze event with Peace River’s Autumn Fest weekend, set for October 18-19.

KENTUCKY It may not be paranormal, but there’s a lot of activity at Diamond Caverns. After you spend a day touring the pretty creepy Waverly Sanatorium in nearby Louisville, partake in some of the fun offered at the resort including hiking, biking, and golf. OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

MAINE

MICHIGAN

Maine is so colorful in the fall they even have their own website, mainfoliage.com, which provides foliage reports in the different zones throughout the state. View the colors and keep it coastal and stay at Encore’s Bar Harbor resorts including Mt. Desert Narrows, Narrows Too, and Patten Pond, or Encore’s Pinehirst in Old Orchard Beach or TT’s Moody Beach in Wells. These locations offer an autumn in New England experience worthy of the movies!

As part of the Great Lakes Circle Tour, Michigan offers a beautiful fall driving opportunity along the lake. Start, or finish, your trip here and plan a stay at Bear Cave in Buchanan.

MASSACHUSETTS The Bay State offers a triple crown when it comes to fall fun. There’s college towns (think Cambridge), haunted towns (think Salem) and scenery galore (think the Berkshires.) In and around the Boston area, Gateway to Cape Cod and Encore’s Old Chatham Road RV Resort could be the fall camp you dream of. And, if you’re exploring the colors of the Mohawk Trail, Sturbridge, and its convenient setting in the Berkshires is the choice. P.S. Salem is another bonus town – not only is it spooky but it’s also minutes from Connors Farm and their themed corn maze.

NEW HAMPSHIRE Apple orchards, vineyards and autumn in the White Mountains! Explore it all and then finish your drive and settle in for a cozy camp at one of two Encore RV Resorts in this picturesque New England state. Consider Sandy Beach in Contoocook or Tuxbury Pond in South Hampton. Both offer wooded settings that make for perfect fall fun.

▲ Lake George Escape (NY)

NEW JERSEY The corn maze in Manalapan, New Jersey, was designed this year to help celebrate 350 years of New Jersey history; a history which includes the lore of the haunted Pine Barrens. Come for the haunting or come for the celebration, but come to New Jersey and stay at the preserves conveniently located to both. Chestnut Lake, Lake and Shore, and Sea Pines are the perfect spots, plus you can check out the upgrades that were completed over the summer at Lake and Shore and Sea Pines, which are definitely something to celebrate.

NEW YORK

▲ Tuxbury Pond (NH)

▲

Another masterpiece of nature will be unveiled this fall in the Adirondacks, which by the way boasts one of the longest fall foliage seasons in the US. Surround yourself in nature at any of three Encore RV Resorts situated in the Adirondacks. Alpine Lake, Lake George Escape and Lake George Schroon Valley each offer the perfect setting to bask in the glory of the season.

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Sturbridge (MA)

▲

Hershey (PA)

NORTH CAROLINA Cue the scenery and start your exploration of the Blue Ridge Parkway with a stay at Encore’s Scenic RV in Asheville. Hike the Parkway and come back and relax camp side. Start the next day bright and early and take in historic Biltmore, which offers an unparalleled fall color show!

PENNSYLVANIA Pennsylvania Dutch Country in the fall couldn’t be more picturesque. So plan a visit to Cherry Crest Farm’s super long maze and then kick back and relax at our locations in the heart of this gorgeous area. Encore’s Appalachian and Robin Hill and

TT’s Hershey are about an hour from the farm, while Circle M, PA Dutch and Encore’s Spring Gulch are under a half hour’s drive from the maze. And if you plan on taking one of many Gettysburg ghost tours offered, plan to stay at the Gettysburg preserve.

WASHINGTON Be a Geoduck by day and a TrailBlazer by night. Visit the campus of Evergreen State College in Olympia and stay at Chehalis, which is less than 20 miles from the town. As the first of the Thousand Trails campgrounds, make it a true homecoming and come see us!

Arrowhead (WI)

WISCONSIN

Here’s a plan: Visit Madison, WI home of the Badgers and the University of Wisconsin and stay with us at Encore’s Arrowhead, Blackhawk, Neshonoc, or Yukon Trails campgrounds. Then head north to Door County and start the Lake Michigan Circle Tour making Tranquil Timbers your camp while you plan the tour. Check out our features that highlight all the fun you can have this season, starting on page 38 and then don’t miss a minute of it. Visit RVontheGo.com and make your reservations today. ■

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

OCTOBER events AND

Activities and Events – On-Site

ACTIVITIES

OCT OBE

October sure is a fun month! In addition to the sheer pleasure of watching the leaves change color, you can also expect to find an Oktoberfest or two, definitely some comfort food cook-offs and of course, finish it off with spectacularly spooky fun as Halloween closes the door on this month. There’s something for everyone to enjoy at a Thousand Trails preserve in October. For a complete listing, check out the Theme Weekend directory at www.trailblazermagazine.net.

Oktoberfests! Rondout Valley (NY) brings the brats and asks guests to bring their best German side dish to share at their Oktoberfest, scheduled for October 3-5. Wilderness Lakes (CA) will host an Oktoberfest on October 11, offering German beer to adults and root beer for the kiddies.

Verde Valley (AZ) treats guests to their version of this October classic on October 18 when the preserve hosts their Oktoberfest, which includes plenty to eat as well as a live music. They’re calling it an Autumn Fest, but the menu at Peace River (FL) during the weekend of October 18-19 includes kielbasa and sauerkraut.

You Should be Dancing! Come to Lake Minden (CA) and enjoy their annual Dance Festival. Take Line Dance classes and then show off your new moves at the Family Dance planned for October 18.

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Three Flags (FL) is hosting a Pink Party for their Breast Cancer Awareness Day during their Fall Fest Weekend October 17-19. The nearby Bushnell Fall Festival promises plenty of fall festivities.

Activities and Events – On-Site

Falling for a Cause

Orlando (FL) is looking to smash previous year’s records for the Toys for Tots events so bring a new (unwrapped) gift to this year’s effort scheduled for October 18. Your contribution is your ticket to the super-fun “Hay Hay Hay” ride around the preserve

Fall Foodie Fun Do you think your chili recipe has what it takes to take first place at Indian Lakes’ (IN) Chili Cook-Off competition scheduled for the weekend of October 3-5? Bring your best recipe and see if you do! Several of Chesapeake Bay’s (VA) October events revolve around food. Whip up a batch of your best chili for their Chili Cook-Off weekend October 3-5 and sample some seafood during Seafood Saturday scheduled for October 11. Gettysburg Farm (PA) also has two fun weekends dedicated to food – go whole hog at their Pig Roast Potluck the weekend of October 10-12 or participate in their Annual Chili Cook-Off October 17-19. Lake Minden’s (CA) Friday Night Potluck, October 24, features a Chili Cook-Off so bring your recipe and compete for prizes.

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

AND

OCTOBER events

Activities and Events – On-Site

ACTIVITIES

Ghoulish Gatherings While it may officially fall on the last day of the month, it seems like the celebrations surrounding Halloween start once Autumn is officially here. Our preserves have plenty of events planned for the actual date, which luckily falls on a Friday this year, but they’ve also got a lot of pre-Halloween fun planned, as well. Again, these are just a few of the events planned – check the Theme Weekend directory to see what’s happening at your favorite preserve.

St. Clair (MI) gets a jump on things and starts off October with a Halloween celebration the weekend of October 3-5. Be prepared to trick or treat, decorate your site, take a haunted hayride, and attend the DJ dance, in costume of course! Natchez Trace (TN) does the same with their Spooktacular Weekend scheduled for the first weekend in October. Don’t miss the Haunted Hayride and spooky carnival. ▲ Natchez Trace (TN) – Trick or Treat Hayride 18

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Grandy Creek (WA) promises a “Very Scary Halloween Weekend” October 24-26 with ghosts, goblins, and witches galore. Enter the jack-o-lantern carving contest, march with all the creepies in the costume parade and participate in a very frightening hay wagon ride.

Pacific City (OR) has set aside October 4 for Halloween decorating and invites all to come decorate the lodge in preparation of the spooky Halloween festivities scheduled for October 25. Hershey (PA) has so much planned for Halloween they had to spread it over three weekends. The Hershey Haunted Trail fun begins October 10-12 with games and crafts, continues October 17-19 with a parade and costume contest and culminates the weekend of October 25-26 with trick or treating, site decorating, more costume contests and pumpkin carving. Pick one or enjoy them all!

Come to Lake Texoma’s (TX) Masquerade Ball, on October 25 and try to guess who’s behind the mask. La Conner’s (WA) Haunted House is talked about far and wide – come creep your way through this masterpiece of horrors and then laugh it off as you trick or treat, parade in costume and carve a jack-o-lantern during their Halloween Weekend October 31-November 2. ▲ Hershey (PA)

Lake Minden (CA) will host a Saturday night Barn Dance on October 11 and dares guests to come in costume. The following weekend, October 17-19, they get into the Halloween spirit during their “Ghoulish Good Fun” weekend that includes a Ghost and Goblin Scavenger Hunt as well as Halloween crafts. It’s Monster Mash Time at Indian Lakes (IN) the weekend of October 17-19, when fun will include a spooktacular dessert pitch-in, costume contests for both kids and adults, pumpkin painting, site decorating and DJs Cree and Geri at the official Monster Mash party. It’s a veritable Fright Fest at Lake & Shore (NJ) the weekend of October 17-19 as their frightening activities planned include a Monster Mash and a haunted hayride.

▲ La Conner (WA)

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Activities and Events – On-Site Activities and Events

Chestnut Lake (NJ) becomes a Camp of Horrors during the weekend of October 24-26. You can expect parades, costume contests, trick or treating and more in what they’re calling the scariest weekend of the year!

CALENDAR events OF

Activities and Events – Local

LOCAL

Colorado River (TX)

Diamond Caverns (KY)

Saturdays in October Painted Churches of Texas Tour Enjoy a driving tour of churches in the area that have been handpainted with murals and frescoes representative of the Czech and German immigrants who settled in the area. Churches are in and around Fayette County. For more information call (979) 743-4515.

October 2-4 29th Rollercoaster Yard Sale A three-day grassroots extravaganza from Mammoth Cave, KY, to Tennessee – around Dale Hollow Lake and back to Glasgow, KY, with over 150 miles of yard sales, crafts, antiques, handcrafted quilts, produce, southern foods, BBQ, entertainment, souvenirs, flea markets and more! For information visit www.therollercoaster yardsale.com.

Lake Conroe (TX)

Saturdays and Sundays in October The Texas Renaissance Festival This enchanted 55-acre village comes to life as all of Europe comes to pay homage to the King and Queen with theme weekend events. Hundreds of costumed performers are showcased in over 200 daily performances. Visitors meander along shaded cobblestone walkways visiting almost 400 shoppes overflowing with unique arts and crafts or delicious food offerings. All ages will be amused by the games of skill and the humanpowered rides. For more information on special theme weekends, event hours and ticket prices, visit www.texrenfest.com. Festival is located just 36 miles from the preserve.

Ponderosa (CA)

Chehalis (WA)

October 2-5 Apple Harvest Festival This year’s festival celebrates Onalaska’s Centennial and includes four days of activities that include a parade, live music, a farm and craft market, local wines and microbrews, a pancake breakfast, 5K Run/Walk, an Apple Pie Contest and more. For information visit www.onalaskaalliance.org.

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Pio Pico (CA)

October 3-5 Oktoberfest in La Mesa This traditional German celebration features dancing, food, Bavarian bands, arts and crafts and commercial booths, all located in the city of La Mesa, just 18 miles from the preserve. For information visit lmvma.com. Hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Scotrun (PA)

October 4, 11 and 18 Old Jail Ghost Tour Experience ghostly happenings, wander the dark cells of the old jail, and hear spine-chilling talks of unseen touches, mysterious voices and black shadows. Held in the town of Jim Thorpe, just 45 minutes from the preserve. For information call (570) 325-5259. Hours are 6:15 p.m. to 9 p.m. each day listed. South Jetty (OR)

October 5 Wine and Chocolate Gala Held at the Three Rivers Hotel & Casino, this event is a major fundraiser that features a Silent Auction, raffle, wine and light hors d’oeuvres. Event hours are 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and there is an entrance fee. For information call (541) 997-3164.

October 9-12 Coloma Gold Rush Live Experience life as it was during the 1850 California Gold Rush era in the place where it all began. Enjoy live music, live history, tent encampments, historic trade demonstrations and historic reenactments – all less than a mile from the preserve. For information visit www.marshallgold.org. Palm Springs (CA)

October 10-12 American Heat Motorcycle Weekend You’ll find stunt shows, live entertainment and retail vendors galore at this event just 10 miles from the preserve. The lush mountain ranges are perfect for a ride and tours of the desert cities. Open to all motorcycles. For information call (775) 329-7459. Idyllwild (CA)

October 11 Art Walk and Wine Tasting Sponsored by the Art Alliance of Idyllwild, event allows guests to stroll the streets of Idyllwild with their keepsake wine glass, hearing the sounds of live music as they view special art exhibits. Each member gallery will host one or more southern California wineries and offer a wide selection of gourmet cheese and crackers. Tickets available online or day of event. For more information visit www.artinidyllwild.org.

Bay Landing (TX)

La Conner (WA)

October 12 Little Italy Festa This colorful Italian celebration features music on three stages, Italian food served al fresco, and “Gesso Italiano,” traditional Italian chalk painting, chalk art for kids, a kids Fun Zone, face painting, balloon art, an Italian Motor Sports exhibit featuring cars and motorbikes, and a bocce tournament. Held in Little Italy, just 27 miles from the preserve. For information visit www.littleitalysd.com. Event hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

October 24-26 Red Steagall Cowboy Gathering & Western Swing Festival Top music, cowboys, chuck wagon cooks, poets and more, plus rodeo and youth fiddling contests are at this great event that is held just 45 minutes from the preserve at the Stockyards of Texas. For more information visit www.redsteagallcowboy gathering.com.

October 25 Boneshaker Bike Fest & Metric Century Come join the crowd of creepy creatures for this fun and spooky Halloween gathering. For information visit www.boneshakerbike fest.com.

South Jetty (OR)

October 12 Columbus Day Chowder Voyage & Wine Walk Held in historic Old Town Florence, visitors can wander around Old Town with Columbus and Queen Isabella, sample chowder and other tasty Italian and Spanish fare at local restaurants (from noon to 4 p.m.) and enjoy a leisurely Wine Walk through the town (from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.). There will also be live entertainment and a drawing from a treasure chest of prizes. For information call (541) 997-3128.

Idyllwild (CA)

October 18 Trail of the Acorn Come enjoy a beautiful fall forest day and follow the “Trail of the Acorn.” Get ready for some handson activities, fun learning opportunities, games, crafts and more. Held at the Idyllwild Nature Center, just three miles from the preserve. For information visit www.rivcoparks.org or call (951) 659-5278. Orlando (FL)

October 18 Hall of Fame Adventure Ride This is a 150-mile motorcycle ride on paved and dirt back roads through the Florida countryside. Starting point is at the Orange County Convention Center, just 15 miles from the preserve. Scotrun (PA)

October 18-19 Pocono Food Truck Festival Festival features food trucks from Philadelphia, New York City, New Jersey and other Pennsylvania locations. There will also be two live bands, monster truck rides, chairlift rides, juggling show and FMB freestyle motocross show. Located at Shawnee on Delaware, just 35 minutes from the preserve. For more information visit www. shawneemt.com.

Activities and Events – Local

Pio Pico (CA)

Chehalis (WA)

October 25-26 Pumpkin Steam Train Ride An annual tradition of Pumpkin Train Rides behind a vintage 1916 logging locomotive continues. Children receive a treat bag and then get a chance to hunt for their perfect pumpkin. There will also be a costume contest. No reservations are necessary, but come early to ensure your ride in your choice of open or enclosed cars. Seating is limited to the first 250 passengers. For information visit www.steamtrainride.com. Palm Springs (CA)

October 25 Classic Car Show & Chili Cook-Off Enjoy classic cars and lots of homemade chili, with over 15 different varieties to be tasted. Event is held at the Palm Springs Air Museum, 745 N. Gene Autry Trail, just eight miles from the preserve. For more information visit www.palmspringsair museum.org.

La Conner (WA)

October 25 Scream & Scamper 5K The Boys and Girls Clubs of Skagit County Scream and Scamper 5K Fun Run/ Walk is a themed run throughout the “boo-tiful” area. Spooky themed activities for the entire family will also be on hand and will include Trunk or Treat Circle, face painting, costume contest and music. Palm Springs (CA)

October 26 Palm Desert Golf Cart Parade The world famous Palm Desert Golf Cart parade, which originated in the 1960s, is a fun event with food and golf vendors in addition to the parade. Event is just five miles from the preserve. For information call www.golfcartparade.com.

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

A TRUE TRAILBLAZER:

GLOBAL NOBLE As has been noted all along, one of the thrills of the trip for Noble was meeting the locals and businessmen, alike, and learning about the culture of the many lands they visited, while Dean’s mission was to find and identify as many species of birds as he could on this journey. As Noble has said many times in his writings – their differences combined to make the perfect traveling team. To that end, Noble’s adventures while Dean was off in the Ituri Jungle were plentiful. As a landlocked country, Uganda’s landscape contained rich deep hills and dense green forests – a perfect habitat for the world famous gorillas of Uganda. So Noble drove in to the town of Kisora to see if he could find a gorilla guide. He was lucky to find such a guide at the Hotel Baumgartel who agreed to take him out in the wilderness on a mission to observe the native gorillas in the wild. “We hiked for two hours using gorilla spoor as our guiding lamp,” recalls Noble. “After a few miles’ hike into the foothills we spotted a mother and her baby within 75 feet. They scampered off into the forest sanctuary, not to be followed by mankind, according to our guide, and we abided by his comment. Back at the hotel, I met a number of individuals who had spent all day doing what we had been doing without success, so we felt quite good about having spotted two gorillas within a couple hours of hiking in such attractive surroundings.” 22

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

With the gorilla trek off the list, Noble once again had to deal with repairs to the Jeep. The very next day after the gorilla adventure, the Jeep came to a halt again thanks to the broken right front spindle. When the same spindle had broken in Patagonia, back in Argentina, Noble had to hitchhike 500 miles one way to find a Jeep dealer. He was luckier in Uganda, having to make his way only 300 miles to Kampala, the capital city where the nearest Jeep dealer resided. “By this time I was a qualified expert on refitting spindles and I knew exactly what I needed to do to get the Jeep back on the road,” Noble said. “We never knew

how far the Jeep would take us before it needed help and we never knew who we would meet along the way.” Along the road to Kampala, Noble ran into a Englishman from Exeter College, Oxford, who took him up into a tungsten mine far off the main road. The mine was run by a gentleman from Bishop, California! Noble also found a bus that would carry him part way to Kampala – a bus full of natives, along with their goods, including chickens and goats. He also received a lift from one of the many cab drivers from Pakistan. “They were so fascinated by my story and what I was doing they

Young Congolese fascinated by the four-wheel drive.

took me home for dinner in the middle of Ramadan,” said Noble. “Chicken curry and rice for dinner – I used a fork and they ate, as was their custom, with their right hand. They also could not believe that I, an American, did not drink coffee.” “As I continued on the road in search of Dean, I passed through the best of Africa. Elevated and cool mountain terrain, and truly Great Rift Valley lakes, including Lake Albert, Lake Kivu, and Lake Victoria. And further south, longer lakes exceeding 400 miles in length such as Tanganyika and Nyasa,” said Noble. On the western border of Rwanda, not far from the Congo, Noble came upon the resort town of Kisenyi, on Lake Kivu. “Here I found the ‘Safari Stop Service Station,’ owned and operated by Eilco Kasemeir, a Dutchman,” Noble recalls. “He gave the Jeep a great lube job, and it was free. He also provided discount gasoline.” While the Jeep was being serviced, another adventuring pair, the Alexanders of Rhodesia happened by the shop. “They had just crossed the Sahara in a Carmen Ghia, their little twowheel drive auto. Heroic stuff!” recalls Noble. “They gave me six beers to chill in the 110-volt refrigerator mounted on the Jeep. We had a good old chat and they shoved off to the next adventure, heading home, south some 1800 miles.” While in Kisenyi, Noble also visited the ‘Central African Curio Shop,’ owned and operated by a Belgian, Jean Pierre Hallet and his wife. “Jean had spent 12 years in this part of the world and definitely was part of the landscape,” said Noble. “He had spent 18 months helping to feed the pygmies a few miles away across the border in the eastern Congo by using explosives to

The Crested Crane - Uganda’s native bird.

catch fish. He had one mishap... he blew off his right hand. The Hallets adopted me for a day and we all got into their new Chevy and crossed the border to Goma to go to the movies – Kirk Douglas in ‘Lust for Life’ – even in the deepest Congo!” At the time Noble was in Kisenyi there was a war between the aristocratic ruling Watutsi tribe and the super majority Bahutus. “It was ugly. You had to beware,” recalls Noble. “I slept in the Jeep parked at Eilco’s Safari Station along with 10 Bahutus who were seeking a temporary sanctuary.” The next day Noble spent a few hours on the shores of Lake Kivu writing his notes before returning to town to visit the Halletts where he could better appreciate the curio shop. “It was the longest and largest and most authentic shop of

its kind I had ever visited,” he recalls. Then on to Eilco’s to take a Polaroid picture of Eilco, Noble and the Jeep which Noble sent to the Nairobi headquarters of Mobil Oil. “I told the head honcho there what a good man Eilco was to me and to his customers,” said Noble. “Just before I left town, I ran into the owner of the Kisenyi Tourist Office, Madame Pavat, who was born on a ship and whose father was a French admiral,” recalls Noble. “After a 15 minute chat, she gave me a big kiss and sent me on my way!” On his way to find Dean!

■

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

WANT TO BE A

LUCKY WINNER?

Thousand Trails is offering members the opportunity to win a

$1,000 American Express Gift Card To earn entries into our monthly drawing, simply pay your 2014 dues on time and camp at your favorite TT Preserve.

Lucky winners,

Melvin & Priscilla Vick from Sedley, VA were camping at Lake Gaston when they were presented with a $1,000 gift card!

When you pay your annual dues for 2014 in full, you will be entered into our monthly drawing for a $1,000 American Express gift card. There will be one drawing/one winner each month from January through December 2014. In addition, once you pay your dues in full, each time you camp at a Thousand Trails Preserve in 2014, you will receive an additional entry into the drawing. The drawings are limited to persons who are of legal age. The drawings will be held at our corporate office on the 10th day after the end of each month. Winners will be notified by mail, phone or in person if camping at a Thousand Trails preserve. The odds of winning will depend on the number of entries, but are not expected to exceed 1:100,000. Winners are responsible for federal and state taxes on the award. You may also enter the drawings by printing your name, address, day and evening phone numbers, and email address on a 3â&#x20AC;? x 5â&#x20AC;? piece of paper and mailing it to the Sponsor in addressed, stamped envelope. You are limited to one mail-in entry which must be postmarked by December 15, 2014. This promotion is sponsored by MHC Thousand Trails Limited Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606. 24

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Louisa and Clark

Get Out and Camp Louisa and Clark went to their favorite campground. They brought their to keep cool while hiking the trails and their cozy Camp side, their

and

to keep warm at night. came in handy when telling spooky tales.

Create your own story with your TT Gear! Enjoy 20% off your order. Use code DD20 when you check out!

ThousandTrailsGear.com Offer valid on all qualifying orders through October 31, 2014 OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

On The Road

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 celeb Chef Todd Gray and his business partner/wife Ellen Kassoff Gray.

Off the grid with the Grays

A five-time nominee for the James Beard Foundation’s Best Chef, Mid-Atlantic Award, Gray is as widely known for his exquisite cuisine as his effervescent personality and dedication to working with, and promoting, local and regional purveyors. Together with his wife and business partner Ellen Kassoff Gray, Todd owns and operates one of the east coast’s premier dining destinations, Equinox Restaurant. This past summer, the DC power couple decided to embark on a west coast culinary adventure by RV. “We decided we wanted to ‘go off the grid,’” says Ellen. “The concept was relatively simple: rent an RV and spend 10 days driving along the west coast searching for culinary gems along the way. Bringing our 14-year-old son, Harrison, with us made it a family affair and that much more meaningful.” “This year has been a landmark year for us in more ways than one,” says Todd. “In addition to celebrating milestone birthdays (50 for both of us), we also

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

celebrated the 15th anniversary of our beloved Equinox.” “A culinary couple through and through, we have spent the past few decades immersed in the very best this country’s food industry has to offer,” says Ellen. “We have had the opportunity to collaborate with some of the most talented people and incredible organizations in the world. Todd has had the pleasure of cooking for President Barack Obama and the First Lady as they celebrated Mrs. Obama’s birthday and subsequently worked with Mrs. Obama on her Healthy Kids Initiative. At Equinox we have hosted celebrities, politicians, and national power players like Bono, LeBron James, Carrie Underwood, Tom Brokaw, and Hillary Clinton. Todd was named to the Inaugural Norwegian Seafood Council US Culinary Board and we traveled to Norway to learn about the country’s sustainable fishing practices.” ▲

From the seasonally-inspired dishes he creates every day in his award-winning restaurant to his ongoing support for sustainable farming and fishing practices, Chef Todd Gray’s impact on Washington, D.C.’s culinary scene has been immeasurable.

▲ Todd and Ellen Gray

Can you tell us a bit about your trip? Todd: Our adventure started in northern California’s wine country. We flew to Napa where I had been asked to participate in Bouchaine Vineyard’s Celebrity Chef Demo & Dining Series. The alfresco dining event was held on the property’s idyllic garden deck and featured live entertainment and a custom menu with wine pairings from Bouchaine.

Chef Todd Gray & wife Ellen Kassoff Gray outside the White House, Washington DC

Ellen: Following the event, we headed to Fremont, hopped into the RV we had rented from RV Adventure-USA and hit the road! Over the next week and a half we literally ate and drank our way through the west coast, stopping periodically to ‘glamp’ at predetermined spots along the way.

What was your favorite thing about staying in your RV versus a hotel room? Ellen: I love to cook my own food for my boys – my husband and 14-year-old son. It was nice to travel so many miles and not have to pack up every day and move – I always leave something under the bed! We love to be together in our own little bubble – we are private people when we get away from the busy DC restaurant we own, so we loved the peace of just hanging out in our world. Todd: The culinary endeavors were by far the best – the things we created with foraged, fished, and bought items were incredible.

What were a few of your favorite things onboard? Todd: The steering wheel! Ellen: For me it was the stove. My 14-year-old son would probably say the Xbox.

Located on an Indian reservation in the tiny town of Klamath, this third generation fish camp is the real deal. James Bansemer of Gold River Guides helped us catch fresh salmon, clean it, and cook it in a variety of ways. We foraged for ingredients like fresh fennel, which we used to season the fish. An on-site smoker, which was built by the fish camp community, smoked salmon for 36 hours – the result was simply mouthwatering! For our son (a true urban teenager), catching a 14-pound chinook salmon and then watching his father grill for dinner what he had just caught was a memorable experience. There are a lot of firsts in life and this was definitely one for our family.

What was your favorite meal to make onboard and what about any restaurants along the way? Todd: We did it all, but the best were probably the smoked salmon fritters. Ellen: We made some great friends by feeding the entire camp with those in Klamath, California.

Did you like taking highways or scenic routes? Ellen: Highway 101 all the way!

What were a few of favorite stops and why? Ellen: While our days were filled with great experiences from beginning to end, one of the most unforgettable (and delicious) was the time we spent catching, cooking, and eating salmon at a fish camp along the coast.

▼ Some salmon for the Klamath camp!

▲ A rental RV was “home away from home” for the Grays during their “off-grid” adventure!

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

I KNEW I WAS A

TrailBlazer

three weeks in the eight-foot camper, with our eight- and tenyear-old daughters. We traveled from San Jose, CA, across Nevada, Utah, and Wyoming to Yellowstone National Park. We left there and headed through Montana into Canada, then across southern Canada to Vancouver and back down the WashingtonOregon coast. This was the start of our camping life. TB: How did you first hear about Thousand Trails?

This month, TrailBlazer would like to introduce you to Ron and Fran Severson, a couple that takes their knack for exploration all across the country. Fran is an avid walker in our Walk the Trails program and Ron finds comfort in staying out on the road. Check out the story of these two TrailBlazers.

In high school, I worked at a scout camp as a lifeguard for a couple of summers. Shortly after high school, I joined the US Navy and spent the next eight years flying and doing some heavy duty camping, also known as survival school. Fran did very little camping when young but remembers going on a couple of short trips to Yosemite National Park.

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

When we were married fifty-one years ago, we saved enough money to take a camping trip for our honeymoon. We were living in the San Francisco Bay area so we packed a couple of sleeping bags, a borrowed camp stove and an ice chest into our old ‘59 Ford station wagon and headed north. We went to the Lassen National Forest for a couple of weeks.

R&FS: I started camping as a young kid with my family – starting in a sleeping bag under the stars, then on to tents and all the way up to a teardrop trailer. Remember, I am a little on the old side and this was back in the early ‘50s. Much of my camping was with my father on fishing and hunting trips. After joining Boy Scouts there was a lot of camping involved and also, living in northern California camping was kind of a natural thing to do. 28

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

From there, we started off using a tent and did mostly short weekend trips. We then purchased a pickup truck and camper and found camping and family time a lot more fun. The first extended family trip was

▲

▲ Ron and Fran Severson at La Conner, with current motorhome in background.

R&FS: A good friend gave us a membership to a single park which included RPI. During our travels with RPI and Passport America, we heard people talking about Thousand Trails, and we were familiar with TT as we had been in a few of the TT parks with our RPI membership. Shortly after that, we were membership orphans so we decided to take a couple of months and travel around central California to find another membership. We found one and went in on a free, two-day stay that turned into a four-day stay. Our sales lady was the park’s sales manager, a great older lady who was pushing 80 and did not pull any punches. When it came time to get down to business she asked us a lot of questions about our camping habits and goals. She had worked for Thousand Trails for many years before coming to the system she was currently working for. She recommended Chloe, our little dog.

that we go with Thousand Trails and even made us an appointment to meet with the sales rep at Lake of the Springs. We could hardly believe it! After all the high pressure we had heard from other sales people in the past couple of months, we found someone who just wanted to help. TB: What is one of your fondest camping memories? How about one of your fondest TT memories? R&FS: There are far too many to list of our fondest camping memories over the past years; there are just so many memories. As for Thousand Trails memories, there are also many, but I think the first few times we used our membership we found that the people were friendlier than in public parks. Fran is a walker and feels very secure walking in the TT parks. Also a TT memory for me is the sales rep from Lake of the Springs who offered no pressure and provided tons of help. When we did our upgrade he met us half way from the park to my home and we signed all the paperwork on the hood of my car. I was in a hurry because we were getting back on the road in a couple of days and he really helped. TB: Any funny camping/RVing stories? R&FS: While camping in the desert outside of Quartzsite, AZ, there were seven RVs set up in a wagon train-type circle. We had an eighth rig coming in and left an open spot for him to get in the roundup. This was a guy we had traveled across the US with a few times. He came and we showed him where we planned his spot and an easy way into it. But not Crazy Jim! He said OK, and then headed toward the spot but elected to take a short cut. He traveled across the center of our circle, right through our bonfire, with his forty-foot motorhome.

▲ Our site at Verde Valley (AZ)

▲ Our site while hiding out at Grandy Creek in Washington.

No one got hurt, but a lot of people went running. TB: What type of camper are you/ what equipment do you use? What do you prefer and why? (ex: fifth wheel, RV, tent, cabins, etc.)

R&FS: While we are more RVers these days, we have run the gamut over the years. After the camper in the mid-70s, we kind of laid back and did not do much in the camping world. In the early ‘90s when Ron retired, we started again. Our motorhome today is a 2006 forty-two-foot Monaco Dynasty with 50,000 miles on it. We plan to travel

until we cannot go any longer. For the type of traveling we are doing the motorhome works well; we do some long travel days at times. We normally do not stay more than two or three weeks at any one place. When traveling across country we only stay a couple of days. The motorhome is very easy to set up and very comfortable riding and driving. Our last stay at home was 106 days, which is a long time for us. That is the longest we have been at home at one time in seven years. Our shortest stay at home was one night. Continued on page 51

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Why Winter With Us A Winter of Sun & Fun with Encore RV Resorts

If you’re seeking sun AND fun this winter, consider a stay at the many Encore RV Resorts located in the popular destinations among winter sun-seekers. Arizona, Texas and Florida head the list for those locations and, of course, Encore is well represented in these hot spots. But if you’re looking for sun and fun, consider what else these areas have to offer besides pretty perfect weather!

Baseball

Whether you love baseball or not, attending Major League Baseball’s Spring Training is a must if you’re planning a trip to Florida or Arizona. Taking in a game at a venue that is often smaller than a major league stadium provides a more intimate view of the game. You’ll also have an opportunity

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

to see whether your favorite team will be a contender in the upcoming season as well as catch a glimpse of the league’s potential future MVPs. Florida-bound visitors can enjoy watching the teams that make up the roster of the Grapefruit League, including the New York Mets, the New York Yankees, the Boston Red Sox, the Houston Astros and the Atlanta Braves. The Grapefruit League’s stadiums and training camps are sprinkled along both coastlines as well as three located in central Florida. You don’t have to pick a favorite team to be able to stay at an Encore Resort while enjoying the Grapefruit League. If you plan it right, you can catch a game for each team and stay with Encore. Want to catch a Baltimore Orioles game, whose stadium is

in Sarasota? Consider a stay at Encore’s Royal Coachman or Winter Quarters Manatee. How about Florida’s own Tampa Bay Rays? Stay at Encore’s Ramblers Rest, nearby to the team’s Port Charlotte stadium location. Inland, near Kissimmee, you’ll be able to watch both the Houston Astros and the Atlanta Braves in action while staying at your choice of three Encore RV Resorts: Clerbrook, Lake Magic and Sherwood Forest, all conveniently located to the baseball action. Over on the east coast, you can road trip starting in the north with the Washington Nationals, whose spring training stadium is in Viera, which is just an hour north of Sunshine Travel in Vero. Sunshine Travel is also less than 40 minutes from the

Bend Wash in Scottsdale and the Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community near Phoenix. Encore RV Resorts in the area are as abundant as the birds and wildlife. For more Arizona birding information visit www.visitarizona.com. The Great Florida Birding Trail (GFBT) has more than 500 locations along its 2,000 mile trail. Divided in to four sections, Panhandle, West, Eastern, and South, birders can find many of the state’s 514 species on the GFBT.

New York Met’s training camp in Port St. Lucie. Travel further south and you’ll find the spring training camp homes of the Miami Marlins and the St. Louis Cardinals. Stay nearby at Sunshine Holiday in Ft. Lauderdale. If you’re heading west to Arizona, you can expect to take in games by the Cactus League teams that include the Chicago Cubs, Milwaukee Brewers, Cincinnati Reds, Colorado Rockies, and the Chicago White Sox. Stadiums and team training camps for the Cactus League are located in Phoenix as well as the nearby cities of Glendale, Goodyear, Mesa, Peoria, Scottsdale, Surprise and Tempe. Encore has nine resorts in the area, including Mesa’s Monte Vista and ViewPoint resorts. Both offer perfect locations, as well as fabulous amenities for post-game relaxation. For specific information on stadiums, schedules and more on Spring Training 2015, visit www.mlb.com/springtraining.

Birding

Make a resolution to make 2015 your Big Year. If you’re not a birder, you may not be familiar with the term Big Year, which is a competition among birders to see who can see, or hear, the largest number of bird species within a single calendar year in a specific geographic location. It can be in a single state or throughout the US.

Nine state-recognized trails are in central Florida providing visitors the opportunity to espy ibis, falcons, quail and heron as well as the beautiful Bald Eagle as Kissimmee is home to the largest population of nesting Bald Eagles. Encore’s central Florida locations include Clerbrook, Lake Magic and Sherwood Forest. On the western side of the state, there are several trails where migratory birds in the area can be seen. Make sure to visit Fort De Soto State Park in ▼ Goldfinch on a coneflower

So whether you want to formally take the challenge, or just keep your own birding log, sunny spots in Arizona, Florida, and Texas offer great birding opportunities. In Yuma, Arizona, you’ll find the Imperial National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to the ruddy duck, the northern pintail and many others. Discover this 30-mile protected habitat along the lower Colorado River noted for its wintertime birding. There is no shortage of Encore RV Resorts to choose from in Yuma as it is home to seven resorts. The Phoenix area offers several great opportunities for birding including the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert, the Indian

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St. Petersburg and plan to stay at Vacation Village. Lovers Key State Park in Fort Myers is another spot on the GFBT and close to Pioneer Village RV Resort. On the Atlantic side, in the eastern section, try Tomoka State Park near Ormond Beach, which is also home to Encore’s Sunshine Holiday.

throughout Harlingen that lead to this wooded retreat. Also, the Estero Llano Grande in Weslaco is the largest wetlands environment in the World Birding network attracting birds and wildlife alike. Of Encore’s 10 resorts in the Rio Grande Valley four can be found in Harlingen proper while there are two convenient Weslaco locations.

Culture & History

Despite being a latecomer to the union as the 48th state in 1912, the Grand Canyon state has a long history. In Tucson, the Arizona History Museum centers its exhibits on the history of southern Arizona. Artifacts include Geronimo’s rifle and 18th century Spanish silver. Two-forone admission is offered on the first Tuesday of each month. Plan a stay at Encore’s Voyager Resort, conveniently located right in Tucson. For more information on the museum visit www.Arizonahistoricalsociety.org.

▲ Red-Bellied Woodpecker

For more information on the Great Florida Birding Trail and specific trail locations visit www.floridabirdingtrail.com. The Rio Grande Valley in Texas is considered one of the top birding destinations in the US. In fact, the Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park is the headquarters of the World Birding Center. Because of its “deep south” location, the park is home to a variety of tropical birds found nowhere else in the United States. With 760 acres to explore, making one of the 10 Encore Rio Grande Valley resorts your home base makes perfect sense. The Harlingen Arroyo Colorado in Harlingen is considered the gateway to the entire World Birding Center network. Explore the hiking and biking trails

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Experience Apache history and culture at Fort Apache Historic Park near Show Low, Arizona. This cultural center and museum is committed to the celebration and perpetuation of the Apache heritage. Visitors can view rare Apache artifacts, take a historical ▼ Tampa Bay History Center

▲ Clocktower - St. Augustine, FL

walking tour and see the Kinishba Ruins National Historical Landmark located just four miles west of Fort Apache. Encore’s Venture In is conveniently located to Fort Apache. For more information on Fort Apache, visit www.wmat.nsn.us/fortapache. Florida history can be traced back more than 14,000 years, when Native Americans settled on the peninsula. And prior to being admitted to the Union as our 27th state in 1845, governing countries of the Sunshine State included

Activities & Amenities Abound

France, Great Britain, and Spain. With that varied and lengthy past, it’s no wonder Florida is rich with history everywhere you go in the state. Located on Tampa’s scenic Riverwalk, the Tampa Bay History Center, a Smithsonian Affiliate organization, focuses on 12,000 years of Florida history including native inhabitants, Spanish conquistadores, cattle drives and more. Encore’s Winter Quarters Pasco in conveniently located in Lutz for your museum visit. For the museum’s hours, admission prices, and specific event information visit www. Tampabayhistorycenter.org. A winter trip to St. Augustine will put you smack dab in the middle of a celebration as the city celebrates 450 years as our nation’s oldest city. While the actual milestone won’t occur until September 2015, St. Augustine has been celebrating for the past three years leading toward events that will culminate in the fall of 2015. Come visit this city rich in history and see what the celebration is all about.

Encore’s Bulow Plantation, in nearby Flagler Beach is the perfect place to stay while you join in on the party. Did you know the last significant battle of the Civil War was fought near Brownsville, Texas? The Battle of Palmito Ranch occurred on May 12-13, 1865. When visiting Brownsville, you can view this landmark site for free but watch closely for the historical marker as the land is largely undeveloped. Brownsville is ripe with history and other places of interest including the La Lomita Mission, the Museum of South Texas History, and the interesting Costume of the Americas Museum which showcases indigenous dress, costumes, jewelry and accessories of the Americas and Mexico. Any of the 10 Encore RV Resorts in the Rio Grande Valley are perfect locations while you soak up the history and culture of the area. ■ By Joan Rykal

With plenty to see and do offsite, there’s always more fun to be had when you come home to your Encore resort after your day, or evening, adventures. We’ve got pickleball courts, tennis courts, ballrooms full of dancing, pools, spas, a golf course or two, and activities galore. Encore RV Resorts has the perfect place for you to enjoy sun and fun this winter. To see what works for you, visit RVontheGo.com. And don’t forget, Thousand Trails members always receive 20% off daily rates and 10% off monthly rates at all Encore RV Resorts. Turn the page to see what activities and events make the Encore RV Resorts in Yuma, Arizona and South Texas one of a kind.

 OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Oh So Unique!

a n o iz r A

Yuma Art Center

Events

Located in the heart of historic downtown Yuma, the Yuma Arts Center and Historic Yuma Theater will showcase a series of concerts this winter and Encore guests can be a part of it all! Stay at any Encore RV Resort in Yuma and enjoy shuttle service to the venue.

Here’s the lineup for the Winter Season: January 16: Hot August Night – The Ultimate Neil Diamond Tribute January 30: The Neil Sedaka Legacy February 13: The Tribute featuring the music of Shania Twain and Tim McGraw February 27: “Diamond” Dave Somerville: The Rock & Roll History Bus Tour March 6: The Premier ABBA Experience March 20: The Spouse Whisperer

▲ Araby Acres: Four-Wheeling Fun Jeep tours of the surrounding area are on the schedule each Wednesday at Araby Acres. The tours leave at 8 a.m. on Wednesdays from mid-October to April. Each week the tour is selected by a committee and a GPS is used to plot the excursion. Tours can be as close as 25 miles or as far as 100 miles from the resort. Various sights to see include the Copper Mountains, Kofa National Wildlife Refuge and the Picacho Recreation Area. Capri: Weaving Wonders Have you ever tried your hand at Swedish Weaving? Learn all about this decorative form of embroidery at the weekly weaving sessions. Desert Paradise: Spend Some Time with Streets and Spillikins No, these aren’t friends from the old neighborhood; they are actually terms used in Cribbage, which is quite popular at Desert Paradise. The holes

on a traditional cribbage board are known as “streets” while the scoring pegs are called “spillikins.” Cribbage games are played every Wednesday. Yuma Resorts say Y.E.S. to Shuffleboard In this case, Y.E.S. stands for Yuma Encore Shuffleboard, an organization open to guests of the Encore RV Resorts in Yuma. The group follows a weekly play schedule throughout the winter season, culminating with awards in March. The winning team is presented with a plaque recognizing the team for receiving the highest wins throughout the season. There is no cost to play and all skill levels are welcome. Participating resorts include Cactus Gardens, Capri, Desert Paradise, Foothills Village, Mesa Verde and Suni Sands. Come challenge the 2013-14 winner from Desert Paradise this season! For more information visit the organization’s website at www.yumaencoreshuffleboard. weebly.com.

The Encore RV Resorts in Yuma, Arizona and South Texas offer the activities and amenities you’d expect to find at a high-end resort. But these resorts take it one step further! Check out some of the unique activities, super-sized amenities, clubs and events that can only be found at Encore RV Resorts:

Texas Encore Games 2015! Victoria Palms will play host to this winter’s Encore Games that include competitions in horseshoes, shuffleboard, race walking, water volleyball and swimming. There will also be card tournaments that will include Bridge, Pinochle, Euchre and Texas Hold’em. Guests of any of the Encore South Texas RV Resorts are invited to compete. The games will be held throughout February. Come on out and join the fun. Meet new friends and win some prizes!

Alamo Palms: Sing for your Supper There’s Karaoke, and then there’s Friday Night Karaoke at Alamo Palms. Croon your favorite tune, channel your inner rock start or serve up your finest Texas Twang as you enjoy this weekly event at Alamo Palms.

▲ Fun N Sun: Flyin’ High Join the group of model airplane builders and take your creation soaring, spinning and rolling. A perfect activity for model builders and their radio-controlled flyers. Lakewood: Car Crazy Car enthusiasts will want to mark their calendars for February 7, 2015 to make sure they attend the Car Show at Lakewood. The show will feature antique cars, muscle cars and other unique vehicles. There will also be live music, food and local vendors.

▲ Country Sunshine: Shuffleboard Tournament Everyone likes to play shuffleboard. But if you stay at Country Sunshine, you can challenge yourself to some of the best of the best in the area and participate in their Annual Shuffleboard Tournament, scheduled for December 10 and 11.

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Oh So Unique! Even more to do at Encore RV Resorts...

Texas

▲ Paradise: Know When to Fold ‘Em Come join the Texas Hold ‘em Tournament at Paradise and see if you will be the big winner. The tournament is scheduled for February 12, 2015. Paradise South: Senior Olympiad All those years of keeping in shape will pay off as you compete in the Senior Olympiad games at Paradise South, scheduled for February.

▲ Sunshine RV: Texas-Sized Pickleball They do say everything is bigger in Texas so it’s no wonder that Sunshine RV has some of the largest pickleball courts in South Texas. Plus, they added a new outdoor pickleball court so you can enjoy the Texas weather while you play.

Victoria Palms: Not Just Another New Year’s Eve Enjoy a murder mystery dinner with a Parisian flair when you celebrate New Year’s Eve at Victoria Palms. The event, titled “Victoria Palms in Paris” is sure to be a hit.

Tropic Winds: Gentlemen (and Ladies), Start Your Engines Folks at Tropic Winds get revved up every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon when the remote control race cars come out to play. Bring your own or just watch the fun as they zoom by. ▲

▲ Southern Comfort: Jam Sessions The jam sessions at Southern Comfort are like mini-concerts every time this group gathers. Come join in or just listen. You’ll be tapping and snapping in no time.

Be Sure to Check out the Encore RV Resort Deals on Page 56-59! 36

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pdates

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Indian

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Lakes

Compl

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Dock a nd Slid e Mini-G olf Cou r se New P ool Fu rniture

New Dock and Slide

Updated Mini-Golf Course

In The Works

Hoosier Favorite Amenity? The brand new amenity area will be complete with basketball and volleyball courts as well as a defined area for everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite, corn hole. Pick one or play them all!

Too Cool Pool Thanks to the new furniture that has been installed as well as the work underway to renovate the pool and the pavilion, the pool area at Indian Lakes will be ultra-cool!

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Leaf Peepers

12 Leisurely Drives for

By Lynn & Cele Seldon As the season changes to fall, things really get colorful all across America. The varied landscapes of the United States have made fall foliage drives a unique part of every year, with leaf peeping offering a colorful way to see this country from coast to coast. From vibrant reds and yellows to majestic purples across

the mountains and valleys, blazing colors can be found easily just by getting behind the wheel and letting your eyes lead the way. Thanks to varied deciduous trees and landscapes, the country is blessed with a fall foliage palette that makes leaf peeping like driving through a Norman Rockwell painting.

The science behind leaves changing colors each fall is relatively simple. According to the tree huggers at The United States Arboretum in Washington, DC, fall foliage starts across the country as the days begin to get shorter in late-summer and early-autumn.

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Leaves change colors because the production of green chlorophyll, which normally masks yellow and red coloring, slows and eventually stops – allowing vibrant yellows and reds to emerge. Red and purple pigments come from the fall production of anthocyanins in the leaves. All of these pigments eventually break down and the only ones that remain are tannin – producing various brown colors in the leaves. As the appropriately colorful Arboretum website states, “Because the starting time of the whole process is dependent on night length, fall colors appear at about the same time each year in a given location, whether temperatures are cooler or warmer than normal.” Along with shorter days, sunlight, temperature, elevation, soil moisture, and more all influence the quality of fall foliage every year in each unique location. Of course, science class aside, classic fall foliage drives draw thousands of leaf peepers to well-known (for good reason) hotspots like the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Adirondacks, the Berkshires, the Rockies, and California’s Eastern Sierras, but there are many other colorful drives to be enjoyed in almost every state. The nation’s national parks, preserves, and other protected areas can provide particularly powerful fall foliage experiences – and pictures – as can the National Scenic Byway and other state byway systems. Many states and even some specific destinations (like Asheville, North Carolina) now have updated information and dedicated pages on their visitor websites devoted to fall foliage. This makes it easy to find locations, drives, directions, and information about peak periods in each state. 40

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

▲ The Blue Ridge Parkway

Blue Ridge Parkway Virginia & North Carolina

There may be no more classic fall foliage drive in the United States than the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway through Virginia and North Carolina. With wellmarked overlooks, easy-touse mile markers, and varied camping and dining along the way that are either right on or near the Parkway, lower speed limits make this one of America’s easiest ways to get a full dose of fall colors in the mountains. The drive connects Shenandoah National Park with Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with possible classic stops including Mabry Mill; Peaks of Otter (great dining with a view); Richard Balsam Overlook (which, at 6,053 feet, features views from the highest point on the Parkway); Moses H. Cone Memorial Park; and the mountain town of Asheville, which is near the Parkway’s Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center and the Folk Art Center.

Skyline Drive Virginia

Often overlooked compared to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia’s Skyline Drive provides a shorter 105-mile fall foliage drive that is just as vibrant with mountain tree colors come fall. Like the Blue Ridge Parkway, the curving Skyline Drive features many overlooks and pulloffs that are perfect for leaf peeping. It starts in Front Royal and ends in Rockfish Gap, which is also the northern terminus of the Blue Ridge Parkway (making it easy to combine the two fall foliage drives for those with time).RVers should be aware that, also like the Parkway, there are several tunnels.

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tennessee

Leaf peeping by vehicle is much like being able to take your transportation of choice on a colorful trail with you. That’s certainly true of viewing fall foliage along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail in the Tennessee portion of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This paved 12-mile round-trip route out of bustling Gatlinburg transports intrepid leaf peepers into a colorful primeval forest within minutes of leaving town. In addition to the beauty of colorful nature, there are also reminders of the area’s early settlers, including log cabins, gristmills, and other historic buildings. One of the best stops along this route is at Trillium Gap Trail for the short thirty minute hike to Grotto Falls, which are especially beautiful in the fall. The Tennessee Smokies trio of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville can all serve as great bases for further exploration of majestic mountains foliage.

Mohawk Trail Massachusetts

There are several “Mohawk Trail” driving tours in Massachusetts that highlight the best of the Berkshires. The twenty-five mile or so roundtrip drive up to 3,491-foot Mount Greylock (the highest point in the state) and back provides a nice introduction, with the helpful Visitor Center, a steep meadow, and lots of views as leaf peepers gain elevation. Another drive of about sixty miles starts in Williamstown, home of Williams College, and includes Natural Bridge State Park, Savoy Mountain State Forest (head to Tannery Falls), and great views of Mount Greylock. The western edge of the Mohawk Trail highlights northern Berkshire County, with North Adams, Western Gateway Heritage State Park, and more. Other drives on and near the Mohawk Trail might include the colorful Hoosac Mountain Range, the Bear Swamp Project, Pioneer Valley, and more.

▲ Humpback Rocks on Blue Ridge Parkway Photo Courtesy of Cameron Davidson; Virginia Tourism Corporation

▲ The Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

The Adirondacks New York

Larger than the state of Vermont, the Adirondacks in New York State provide classic fall foliage of reds, yellows, and purples. With one of the longest fall foliage seasons in the northeast, the Adirondacks are crisscrossed by a dozen New York State Scenic Byways. Among many possibilities, one great option is to drive the 170-mile Olympic Trail from Lake Champlain to Lake Ontario through the High Peaks region of the Adirondack Park. The quaint village of Lake Placid was the home of the 1932 and 1980 Olympics, where nearby highlights can include Whiteface Mountain (site of many Olympic competitions) and abolitionist John Brown’s rustic farm. Adirondacks lake driving features lots of colors from sugar maples, yellow birches, American beeches, and more reflecting off the lakes in their fall glory. Shopping at Pioneer Valley – Photo Courtesy of Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism

▲ Adirondacks, NY

White Mountains Trail New Hampshire

Designated a National Scenic Byway, New Hampshire’s White Mountains Trail encompasses spectacular fall scenery, covered bridges, historic sites, picturesque towns and villages, and friendly people over the course of its one hundred mile route. The Trail is a loop tour that winds through sections of the 800,000-acre White Mountain National Forest and past many of the region’s most popular attractions. It can be driven

Photo Courtesy of VisitAdirondacks.com

in a day or can be the object of an entire vacation’s worth of relaxation, exploration, and discovery. The Northern and Southern Loops are fascinating routes to explore, affording a unique look at life in and around the White Mountains. Parts of the Trail have been used by travelers for centuries. In the early-19th century, the works of Nathaniel Hawthorne and landscape painter Thomas Cole, among others, drew attention to the White Mountains.

Maine Coast Maine

Stretching from around quaint Calais down to the New Hampshire state line, the rugged Maine coast along Route 1 and other roads provides a perfect way to see coastal fall colors, including the Atlantic Ocean, lots of bays, rocky coastline, mountains, historic cottages, and more for backdrops. Highlights have to include photogenic lighthouses; ‘lobstah’ and other fresh seafood; colorful Acadia National Park; and lots of historic and quaint coastal towns and cities like Camden, Bath, Freeport (and L.L. Bean), Portland, the Kennebunks, and York, which is America’s oldest chartered city. 42

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

▲

Lake Michigan Circle Tour Illinois, Indiana,Wisconsin and Michigan

With spectacular fall foliage reflecting off Lake Michigan in five states, the 900-mile or so Lake Michigan Circle Tour was the mid-1980s brainchild of the Michigan Department of Transportation’s Jack Morgan. Though there are similar circle tours of other Great Lakes, Lake Michigan is the only one that lies entirely in the United States. Bisected by a “spur” route that connects Ludington, Michigan, and Manitowoc, Wisconsin, by ferry service on the SS Badger (providing a possible shortcut for the drive), there’s a Southern Lake Michigan Circle Tour (Ludington to Manitowoc or the reverse) and Northern Lake Michigan Circle Tour (Manitowoc to Ludington or reverse.) Beautiful beaches, varied towns and cities, and more await those searching for fall foliage in the Great Lakes region.

Texas Panhandle Texas

While one wouldn’t normally think of Texas as being “colorful” come fall, the Lone Star State certainly has its share of fall foliage. Some of the best drives for leaf peeping in Texas are in the Panhandle region around Amarillo. The possibilities include Palo Duro Canyon State Park (where the cottonwoods turn a brilliant yellow); Route 287 south of Amarillo (especially from Claude to Memphis); and the Texas Fall Foliage Festival in and around Canadian, which is about one hundred miles northeast of Amarillo. Located along the Canadian River and the Texas Plains Trail, the small town of Canadian is leading the way in rural Texas tourism with events like their fall foliage festival, which is always the third weekend in October.

▲ Dried maize (corn)

▲ Fall Foliage – Texas OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

West Elk Loop Scenic & Historic Byway Colorado

The scenic Rocky Mountains in colorful Colorado are at their most brilliant in the fall. Aspens, especially, provide unique oranges, yellows, reds, and more to the vistas near and far. The 205-mile West Elk Loop Scenic & Historic Byway passes through three pretty mountain towns – Marble, Gunnison, and Crested Butte and is a classic Colorado fall foliage drive that showcases acres of aspens (the nation’s largest single grove). The marble for the Lincoln Memorial came from the old mining town of Marble. Gunnison offers a unique cultural mixture of ranching community meets university town, while 44

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Crested Butte is known as the “Wildflower Capital of Colorado.” Black Canyon in Gunnison National Park is a natural highlight of this drive as well.

The Eastern Sierras California

Driving Route 395 through the Eastern Sierras shows off some of California’s best fall foliage. According to John Poimiroo, editor of californiafallcolor.com, aspens begin showing flame red, orange, pink, and yellow in Bishop Creek Canyon at 10,000 feet (reachable by vehicle) in mid-September and peaks from the last week of September through the first couple of weeks of October.

▲ Aspen trees in the fall landscape

Then, it drops by elevation at a rate of about 500 to 1,000 feet per week, with spectacular leaf peeping throughout the canyon and at Convict Lake, Mammoth Lakes, June Lake, Virginia Lakes, Lunday Lake, and the Walker River Valley. Poimiroo, who files regular fall foliage updates for the Eastern Sierras and elsewhere in California, says that means you can dependably enjoy fall color along this drive from mid – and late – September through October at various elevations along Route 395. What makes the colorful displays even more dramatic is that sawtooth, snow-flecked granite peaks rise dramatically above the color and it’s often reflected in the area’s tourmaline lakes.

Olympic Peninsula Washington

Washington State’s Olympic Peninsula along Route 1 is different from any other fall foliage drive in the country. Starting and ending in the Seattle area, the drive essentially circles the towering Olympic Mountains and sprawling Olympic National Park. Washington may be the Evergreen State, but there are still lots of fall colors to see on this drive. Highlights of the route might include the drive up to Hurricane Ridge for great mountain and fall color views; historic Port Townsend; pretty Lake Quinault, Lake Crescent, and other tree-lined lakes; Cape Flattery (look for tall mistenshrouded Sitka spruces); and lots of coastal towns surrounded by colorful wilderness.

Of course, there are many other great fall foliage drives all across the country and this diverse list of a dozen is just a starting point for leaf peepers come fall. Some other colorful possibilities across the country includes the Ozarks in Missouri and Arkansas; Vermont’s Green Mountains; West Virginia’s New River Gorge National River; Wisconsin’s Driftless Region; the Southwest’s unique Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway near Taos, New Mexico; and Alaska’s truly scenic Seward Highway, a National Scenic Byway down the Kenai Peninsula out of Anchorage. Of course, America features many other locations where leaf peeping drives are colorful rites of passage every fall. ■

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

More Fall Fun By Joan Rykal Viewing the bounty of nature’s color show each fall is one reason to hit the road for an autumn adventure. But there is a whole lot more than pretty colors to enjoy this season. TrailBlazer rounded up a few more ideas to get you out and enjoying the fabulous fall weather.

Amazing Mazes Wander aimlessly, or with a purpose, through a perennial fall favorite, the corn maze.

Dixon, California:

Billed this year as “the coolest maze on the planet,” the corn maze at Cool Patch Pumpkins is also considered to be one of the largest, making the Guinness Book of World Records in 2007. The 2013 maze covered 53 acres and the team at Cool Patch says that the 2014 maze will be even bigger. For more information visit www.coolpatchpumpkins.com.

Lakeland, Florida:

A fall corn maze is not what you’d typically expect to find in Florida, but if you visit the Smith Family Ranch you’ll be even more “cornfused.” The ranch’s Cornfusion Crop Maze promises 20 acres of fun for the whole family. Visit www.smithranchlakeland.com for more details.

Danvers, Massachusetts:

Connors Farm in Danvers, offers a themed corn maze each year and past themes have included “The Family Guy,” the Witches of Salem 46

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

and Clint Eastwood! With that kind of variety, who knows what the 2014 theme will be? Check out the corn maze, as well as the Maze of Darkness events held in the evenings from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. For more information on the maze, as well as other attractions offered at the farm, visit www.Connorsfarm.com.

Manalapan, New Jersey:

The corn maze at Happy Day Farm helps celebrate 350 years of New Jersey’s history, with the words innovation, diversity and liberty as part of the maze. Talk about innovation – this maze has a special code you can scan into a GPS-locator and it will tell you where the nearest post is and send you a picture of where you are in the maze currently. To find out more about this super-fun maze, visit www.happydayfarmnj.com.

Ronks, Pennsylvania:

You’ll need to dedicate at least an hour to get through the Amazing Maize Maze at Cherry Crest Farm, located in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Their 2.5 mile path is interactive and includes bridges and clues. Choose from easy, intermediate or difficult and you’re on your way. Don’t worry if you get lost, the Maze Master is there to offer assistance if needed. For more information visit www.cherrycrestfarm.com.

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Spooky Surroundings Get your supernatural fix by visiting some of the most reportedly haunted places in the US.

The RMS Queen Mary, Long Beach, California:

Imagine more than 150 spirits roaming this 1,000 foot ship that once sailed the seas as a luxury liner. In addition to the reported 49 deaths that occurred onboard during the more than 70 year history of this ship, the Queen Mary also served as a troopship during World War II and was known as the Grey Ghost. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bâ&#x20AC;? Deck and more specifically, Room B340, are said to be the most haunted areas on the ship. For more history and information on haunted tours of the ship visit www.queenmary.com.

Waverly Hills Sanatorium, Louisville, Kentucky: Call it haunted, call it scary, call it creepy, but the Waverly Hills 48

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Sanatorium is said to be full of paranormal activity. Built to accommodate patients suffering from tuberculosis, it opened in the early 1900s. The fifth floor is supposed to be the most haunted. You can see for yourself by scheduling a tour. Visit www.therealwaverlyhills.com.

Pine Barrens, New Jersey: The Jersey Devil, a winged beast with cloven hoofs, is said to wander, and haunt, areas of southern New Jersey, wreaking havoc. The legend of the Jersey Devil dates back to the 18th century but sightings have been reported as recently as five years ago.

Pittock Mansion, Portland, Oregon:

The spirits of the Pittock family are said to inhabit this mansion that has been open to the public since 1965. Also, a framed picture of the owner and builder, Henry Pittock, as a child, is said to mysteriously move from room to room.

Whether these stories are the stuff of wild imaginations or truly the spirited Pittock family hijinks, the mansion is worth a visit. Visit www.pittockmansion.org for more information.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania:

As the site of one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War, it is said that moans and groans, as well as cannon and gunfire, can be heard from the grounds and the buildings surrounding the battlefield. The town consistently lands on lists of the most haunted places in the United States. For information on ghost tours and more history, visit www.hauntedgettysburg.com.

College Towns College campuses in fall are sure to bring back memories of Homecoming dances, rounds of rah rahs for your favorite team and the campus green covered in a carpet of colorful fallen leaves.

San Luis Obispo, California:

Officially known as California Polytechnic State University, Cal Poly resides in the happiest town in America, San Luis Obispo. According to author Dan Buettner, the town works because the city believes it should be an optimum place for quality of life rather than commerce. That doesn’t mean the town isn’t bustling – there’s plenty to see and do here, and most of it with a smile on your face. SLO, as it’s called by

Home to more than 35 universities, there’s also the Freedom Trail, fabulous food, and Faneuil Hall to see.

Madison, Wisconsin:

Aside from the beautiful colors of a Midwestern autumn, a visit to Madison, Wisconsin, home of the University of Wisconsin offers many other highlights. On campus, visit the Memorial Union Terrace for a great view of Lake Mendota and a scoop of ice cream from Babcock Hall Dairy Store. Off campus, there’s Olbrich Botanical Gardens

with16 acres of outdoor gardens and the Bolz Conservatory that features a collection of tropical plants, free-flying birds and a rushing waterfall.

Charlottesville, Virginia:

locals, has fabulous restaurants, 6,500 acres protected for biking, hiking and outdoor activities and a thriving arts community.

Boston, Massachusetts: Whether it’s the charm of Harvard Square or the urban setting of Boston University, a visit to Beantown in the fall has something for everyone.

Huffington Post Travel named this town, home to the University of Virginia, as one of seven college towns to visit. Both the university and nearby Monticello, home of President Thomas Jefferson, have been named World Heritage Sites. Noted for its architecture, don’t miss the Rotunda at the north end of the Lawn on campus. With the Blue Ridge Mountains as a colorful backdrop and plenty of attractions in and around Charlottesville, including

wine and culinary tours and the Monticello Artisan Trail, a visit here won’t disappoint.

Olympia, Washington:

Considered one of the “coolest college towns” by Travel+Leisure magazine, Olympia is home to Evergreen State College. With a mascot named after a local clam, the campus is home to Evergreen Organic Farm, which will host a Harvest Festival on October 18. Festival events include canning and jamming workshops, live music and children’s activities. Go Geoducks! ■

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ACROSS 1 Bring 5 Lady’s title 9 Uncle (Scot.) 12 Scientific name (suf.) 13 Recorded proceedings 14 Totem pole 15 In (Fr.) 16 Your (Ger.) 17 Citizen (abbr.) 18 Sound perception 20 Movies 22 Legal action 25 Apart (pref.) 27 Mulberry of India 28 Dance company (abbr.) 29 Bedouin headband cord 31 Rosebud, e.g. 34 Constrictor 35 Pattern 37 Guido’s note (2 words) 38 Concerning (2 words) 40 Latite 41 Television channel 42 Federal Aviation Admin. (abbr.) 44 Yarn Measure 45 Golf ball holder 46 Medieval helmet 49 Suggestion 51 Universal product code (abbr.) 52 Pointed (pref.) 54 Challenge 58 Shelter 59 Afr. tree 60 Down with (Fr., 2 words) 61 At the age of (Lat.) 62 Earth 63 Created

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Answers can be found on page 64.

Reader Service

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104

Equity Lifestyle ��56-59

132

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165

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128

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124 Winnebago �� 2

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

DOWN 1 Youngster 2 Wood sorrel 3 Denary 4 Assuage 5 Shepherd’s song 6 Sharpshooter 7 Of the kind of (suf.) 8 Madness 9 Prime 10 Mutilate 11 Feminine (suf.) 19 Wife of Esau 21 Nose (pref.) 22 Noted physicist 23 Black 24 Pane (2 words) 26 Palmetto 30 Ember (2 words) 32 River into the North Sea 33 Carplike fish 36 Afrikaans 39 Water (Fr.) 43 Accumulate 46 Haw. dance 47 Sword 48 Spoken alphabet letter 50 Cheese 53 Portuguese coin 55 Sleeveless Arab cloak 56 Energy Unit 57 Compass direction

Continued from page 29

TB: Where have you gone that you wouldn’t have otherwise, if it hadn’t been for your Thousand Trails membership? R&FS: This is really a hard one. I would say there are many places across the US and Canada we would not have seen. When traveling, we normally have a place we are heading toward, but have never gone on a direct route, yet. We enjoy traveling the backroads and seeing the places that are not necessarily the popular places. Often we hear of something that sounds interesting while on the road so our route adjusts to include it. I believe our largest deviation was 240 miles from our planned route. Our Thousand Trails membership has made our traveling somewhat more affordable and we have seen so many interesting places that we learned about while meeting people at the TT parks.

TB: What is your favorite part about the outdoor lifestyle? R&FS: We enjoy meeting so many really nice people. We have a number of friends we stay in touch with. Some of these have become good friends; we exchange our travel schedules and we meet up with them whenever we can. We are now traveling through the Northwest to the La Conner preserve and plan on meeting up with couple we met a couple of years ago in at the St. Clair preserve in Michigan. Also we have seen so many interesting historical places in the US and Canada. We love to visit areas that are not really known as tourist areas. TB: Can you finish this sentence? I knew I was a TrailBlazer when... R&FS: Fran is more of a real TrailBlazer than I am. She travels four to five miles every day while walking the trails and areas of the parks. She completed over 1500 miles during the last Walk the Trails program. She did not let up, even after completing the top award, she just kept on blazing.

▲ Fran going mining.

Now she has started working the new program which we recently learned about while at Whalers Rest. I am not sure I am a true TrailBlazer – I just want to go, see and meet people. After being home for a few weeks I am ready to roll again, don’t care where, but just get on the road. ■

Ron & Fran at Depoe Bay, Oregon which is just a few miles north of Whalers Rest.

CIRCLE NO. 150 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

▲

ASK

RVBILL

YOUR TECH QUESTIONS ANSWERED!

Hi RV Bill,

Eric, if your motorhome has coil springs and a tag axle the chassis would have a MOR/ryde suspension. If you have a single rear axle with leaf springs the chassis will be the Chevy P30. Contact MOR/ryde at (574) 293-1581 and inquire if they will make a part for you. If you don’t have any luck, try these salvage yards: West Coast RV Recycling at (360) 669-0264; or Colaw RV Salvage at (606) 843-9889. Hopefully these phone numbers will help you and any other readers in need of old or obsolete RV parts.

I’m having a little trouble tracking down a part for my 1989 Holiday Rambler Imperial. HRA does not have specs since they sold the company to Harley Davidson during the six or eight year period when mine was built, and Harley Davidson could not help either since they sold the company in 1996 and have no records of HRA parts from that era. What I’m looking for is a rear right lower spring perch, which would normally be a part of Chevy’s chassis on the P30, except that Chevy says they sent it to the plant with leaf springs, not coil springs. That being said, HRA and Chevy seem to think that the suspension was made (or installed) at the HRA plant in 1989, which as I mentioned, has none of the plant information as far as parts goes. Do you happen to know any part connection folks that may be able to help me out here? Myself and another resourceful mechanic friend of mine have been searching for a week with no luck. Many thanks for your time. Eric Forrester Felton, Ca.

Bill,

I can understand this would be driving you nuts. I contacted a service rep at Monaco and he believes that everything you have described is related to the onboard computer. I suggest taking your motorhome to an International Navistar service center and have them check for computer updates and/or re-program the ECM with the latest software available. There have been many changes to your unit since the manufacture date. Good luck and thanks for the inquiry.

I have a 2012 Holiday Rambler motorhome with a MaxxForce 10 DT International 350 HP engine. When running at freeway speed, it runs fine but after it is warm and I slow down, such as an exit or in traffic, the HEST lamp comes on and the motor starts to skip. An international shop foreman told me the HEST lamp meant everything was OK as long as it wasn’t flashing or none of the other indicators were active. Is this problem the fault of the diesel particulate filter? Also when I use my exhaust brake it is worse. It has never gotten to stage 2 (it has to be there (stage 2) before I can do a parked regeneration.) This is driving me nuts; any suggestions appreciated. Thank you, B J Smith

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Bill, we are getting ready to become full-time RVers over the next few years and we plan on visiting every park in the Thousand Trails network. We just bought a new Heartland Elkridge 39-foot fifth wheel. My question is, will it be safe to run the refrigerator on propane when traveling and how much propane will it burn doing so? On a second note, what do full-timers do about mail and packages?

How exciting for you to be planning to go full-time! My wife and I love the lifestyle and all of the many adventures along the way. RV manufacturers do not recommend driving with the propane on, as it can be dangerous, especially when stopping for fuel, as there is an open flame. Your fridge will stay cold for several hours with the doors closed. Calculating how much propane the fridge will burn is nearly impossible. Ambient temperatures, size of the burner orifice and many other factors will determine gas consumption. An average burner size runs about 16,000 BTU. Safety is always a priority when propane is involved and I appreciate your concerns.

Thank you, Randy Smith

From our Readers In the July 2014 issue of Trailblazer, Brian Hunt asked about replacing the deteriorating foam cushion on the folding assist handle next to the entry door on their fifth wheel. Facing the same problem, I solved it with a section of foam pipe insulation and a little black tape to keep it in place. ~ D. Danielson

GOT A QUESTION FOR BILL? SEND AN EMAIL TO

AskRVBill@ equitylifestyle.com

As for your mail inquiry, personally, my wife and I are loved and cared for in this important department by her parents. We use their mailing address and they send our mail to us via General Delivery at the Post Office near where we are camped. We use a flat rate box and pay for tracking. If it’s anything of great importance, they kindly scan and email to us so we don’t miss any pressing matters while we await our next mail delivery. There are other monthly mail services available to RVers through Escapees and local Mail Stop businesses. Most charge a small monthly fee for service, in addition to the cost of postage to forward your mail onto you at the location of your choosing whenever you like, generally, every two weeks. Another note: We own rentals and are involved with a business so having access to our Smartphones, a printer/scanner and a computer that can all link to the Internet while inside our fifth wheel is an absolute must for productivity. If Internet is important to you, I highly suggest that you purchase a Wilson cell phone booster system. We have a Wilson DB Pro, 62db, with exterior and interior antennas. Oftentimes, we can pull in cell and data reception for our iPhone when others around us have no signal.

Hi Bill,

Glad to have been of service! There are thousands of workhorse and P-series chassis roaming the USA and finding help is not always easy. Check out www. UltraRVproducts.com. This is a company that will help you find workhorse parts if you are so in need. Options range from P-series to W-series chassis as well as R26 UFO chassis. For hard to find parts send your VIN number and description of what part you need to Ultra RV Products and they will try to find the part for you in their complete library of service manuals, that also include wiring diagrams.

Thanks so much for the recent article in the TrailBlazer about my transmission. I didn’t even know you had enough time or would make the time to check it out for me, let alone answer. We were on the road and my wife was reading me the Trailblazer while I’m driving, like always. She started reading and said “This guy has the same thing wrong with his transmission as we do!” Then she looked and said, “Hey! It’s your question!” Wow! What a treat! Know any good trans guys in Yuma??? I found if you want things done the best, Yuma is a good place to go. Oh, I don’t need just Yuma, I’m in Las Cruces and willing to go almost anywhere for a good job. Your expertise has help a great deal, Bill. Thanks again for you answer. Sincerely, Ceyhan Turkell

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Thousand Trails

PREFERRED RV DEALERS

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

A&L RV Sales TN - Christiana - www.alrvsales.com Alpin Haus NY - Amsterdam, Port Jervis, Saratoga www.alpinhaus.com Al’s Trailer Sales OR - Salem • www.alstrailers.com American Family RV VA - Chesapeake www.americanfamilyrv.com Bama RV AL - Dothan • www.bamarv.com Baydo’s RV of Chehalis WA - Chehalis • www.baydosrvs.com Big Country RV OR - Bend, Redmond www.bigcrv.com Blade Chevrolet RV WA - Mt. Vernon • www.bladerv.com

Browns RV SC - McBee www.brownsrvsuperstore.com

Ellis Travel Trailers GA - Statesboro www.ellistraveltrailers.com

Camperland Trailer Sales TX - Conroe • www.camperland.net

ET Quality RV CA - Yuba City • www.etqualityrv.com

Campers Inn CT - Union; FL - Leesburg, Jacksonville GA - Macon; MA - Raynham NC - Kings Mountain, Mocksville NH - Kingston, Merrimack www.campersinn.com

Floyd’s RV OK - Norman • www.floydsrvs.com

Charlie Obaugh RV VA - Staunton www.charlieobaughrv.com Clear Creek RV WA - Silverdale www.clearcreekrvcenter.com Country Camping Corner NC - Kings Mountain, Matthews www.countrycamping.com

Boat n RV NY - West Coxsackie; SC - Ridgeland PA - Hamburg • www.boatnrv.com

Crossroads Trailers NJ - Newfield www.crossroadstrailers.com

Braun’s Fun Time Campers IN - Indianapolis www.funtimecampers.com

Curtis Trailer Center MI - Schoolcraft www.curtistrailercenter.com

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Funtime RV OR - Tualalin • www.funtimervinc.com Hayden’s RVs VA - Richmond • www.haydensrvs.net General RV Center IL - Huntley MI - Brownstown, Mt. Clemens, Wayland, White Lake, Wixom OH - North Canton

www.generalrv.com

Gibs RV Superstore OR - Coos Bay www.gibsrvsuperstore.com Keystone RV Center PA - Greencastle www.keystonervcenter.com Lakeside RV Sales SC - Anderson www.lakesidervsales.com

THOUSA N TRAILS D PREFERR DEALER ED S

La Mesa RV AZ - W. Phoenix,Yuma CA - Sacramento, San Diego FL - Ft. Myers, Orlando, Port St. Lucie www.lamesarv.com McKay’s RV & Marine Center ME - Holden • www.mckaysrv.com Media Camping PA - Fairless Hills, Hatfield, Media www.mediacamping.com Mike Thompson RV Superstores CA - Cathedral City, Colton, Fountain Valley, Santa Fe Springs www.mikethompson.com

Princesscraft RV TX - Round Rock • www.princesscraft.com R.B. Taylor & Sons VA - Lynchburg www.rbtaylorandsons.com Recreation Plantation RV Sales IL - Lynwood www.recreationplantationrvsales.com Roy Robinson RV WA - Marysville www.royrobinsonrv.com

Smart Choice Auto Group & RV Sales TX - Jersey Village www.smartchoiceautogroup.com Snyder’s RV VA - Virginia Beach www.snydersrv.com Sunbelt RV Center TX - Belton • www.sunbeltrv.com Sundown RV Center CA - Atwater • www.sundownrv.com

RV’s For Less TN - Knoxville • www.rvsforless.net

Super Deals RV Inc. GA - Douglasville www.superdealsrv.com

Out of Doors Mart NC - Colfax • www.outofdoorsmart.com

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

TAC Trailer and RV NC - Moyock • www.tactrailerandrv.com

Patterson RV TX - Wichita Falls www.pattersonrv.com

Scott Motor Coach NJ - Lakewood www.scottmotorcoach.com

Paul Evert’s RV Country AZ - Bullhead City; CA - Coburg, Fresno NV- Laughlin; WA - Fife, Mt. Vernon www.rvcountry.com

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

Phillips RV Center MI - Mount Morris • www.phillipsrv.com

Seguin RV TX - Seguin • www.seguinrv.com

Tom Raper RVs IN - Richmond • www.tomraper.com Vogt RV TX - Ft. Worth • www.vogtrv.com Welcome Back RV Outlet TX - Athens • www.welcomebackrv.com Western Travel Sales WA - Lynden www.westerntravelsales.com

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Member Deals

Thousand Trails Members Always Save At

RVontheGo.com Call! Click! Camp!

1-888-443-7301

▲ Fiesta Key RV Resort (FL Keys)

Thousand Trails Standard Discount:

20% Off

n (FL)

tatio ▲ Bulow Plan

Daily Rates

10% Off Monthly Rates

Valid at all Encore RV Resorts

▲ Sunshin e Travel (FL )

Weekly Rates At Select Florida Resorts

50% Off One Week Valid through 12/15/14

Use Promo Code: TTFL14W *Restrictions/exclusions apply and are listed at bottom of this page.

**Restrictions/exclusions apply and are listed at bottom of this page.

*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. **Discount taken off weekly rate. 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. 56

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Member Deals

▲ Clerbrook Golf & RV Resort (FL)

Weekly Rates At Select Florida Resorts

40% Off Weekly Rates Valid 12/16/14 - 4/30/15

Use Promo Code: TT40W15 ) ▲ Highland Woods (FL

Seasonal Rates At Select Florida Resorts

Sunshine Travel $999/3-Month Use Promo Code: TT999S

Clover Leaf Forest

$1299/3-Month Use Promo Code: TT1500S

Valid at: Bulow, Southern Palms, Vacation Village, Terra Ceia, Toby’s RV Resort, Pioneer Village, Fiesta Key, Topics RV Resort, Crystal Isles RV Resort, Clover Leaf Forest, Barrington Hills, Clerbrook Golf & RV Resort, Highland Woods, Sunshine Travel

20% Off One Week Valid 12/16/14 - 4/30/15

Clerbrook Golf & RV Resort $1699/3-Month Use Promo Code: TT1800S Valid 1/1/15 - 3/31/15

**Restrictions/exclusions apply and are listed at bottom of this page.

Use Promo Code: TT20W15 NOT Valid at: Bulow, Southern Palms, Vacation Village, Terra Ceia, Toby’s RV Resort, Pioneer Village, Fiesta Key, Topics RV Resort, Crystal Isles RV Resort, Clover Leaf Forest, Barrington Hills, Clerbrook Golf & RV Resort, Highland Woods, Sunshine Travel

**Restrictions/exclusions apply and are listed at bottom of this page.

**Discount taken off weekly rate. 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. Stays of 30 days or longer, electricity may be an additional charge. CIRCLE NO. 104 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Member Deals

▲ Victoria Palms (TX)

Select Arizona & Texas Resorts

$199/Week Use Promo Code: TT199AT15

$699/Month

sort (AZ)

Re ▲ Paradise RV

Use Promo Code: TT699AT15 Valid 10/1/14 - 4/30/15 Valid at: Araby Acres, Monte Vista, Paradise RV (Not valid JanMar 90 day minimum length of stay), Victoria Palms, ViewPoint (Not valid Jan-Mar 90 day Minimum length of stay)

▲ Araby A cres (AZ

)

$149/Week Use Promo Code: TT149AT15

$499/Month

Use Promo Code: TT499AT15 Valid 10/1/14 - 4/30/15 Valid at: Cactus Gardens, Capri, Casita Verde, Countryside, Country Sunshine, Desert Paradise, Fiesta Grande, Foothill Village, Foothills West, Fun and Sun, Golden Sun, Lakewood, Mesa Verde, Paradise Park, Paradise South, Southern Comfort, Sunshine RV, Suni Sands, Tropic Winds, Valley Vista, Voyager.

▲ Country Sunshine (TX) **Restrictions/exclusions apply and are listed at bottom of this page. **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. 58

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Member Deals

▲ ViewPoint Golf & RV Resort (AZ)

Seasonal Rates at Select Arizona & Texas Resorts

$999/3-Month Valid 10/1/14 - 4/30/15

Use Promo Code: TT999AT15

▲ Alamo Palms (TX)

Valid at: Alamo Palms, Cactus Gardens, Capri, Casita Verde, Countryside, Country Sunshine, Desert Paradise, Fiesta Grande, Foothill Village, Foothills West, Fun N Sun, Golden Sun, Lakewood, Mesa Verde, Paradise Park, Paradise South, Southern Comfort, Sunshine RV, Suni Sands, Tropic Winds, Valley Vista, Voyager

$1,349/3-Month Valid 10/1/14 - 4/30/15

Use Promo Code: TT1349AT15 ▲ Monte Vista (AZ)

RVontheGo.com 1-888-443-7301

Call! Click! Camp!

Valid at: Araby Acres, Monte Vista, Paradise RV, Victoria Palms, and ViewPoint

**Restrictions/exclusions apply and are listed at bottom of this page. **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. Stays of 30 days or longer, electricity may be an additional charge. OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

RPI? “Our RPI membership provides us more access to camping. We currently stay close to the West Coast but our plans for next year include traveling and camping in the east. With our RPI membership that is possible.” - David & Ruth, Whittier, CA

More Camping

More Destinations Freedom • Flexibility • Fun! Call to Learn More About RPI 60

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Even More! We offer Preferred Access members exceptional savings on resort vacations around the world!

Save Big with

Enjoy America!

More Cruises Access to over 500 public RV campgrounds 50% off at least one night’s fee

More Condos & Hotels Quality • Availability • Value

The campgrounds are chosen for their quality and are rated 3 or higher in Woodall’s and 5 or higher in Trailer Life Toll-free reservation number

America! ENJOY

“America’s Finest Discount Camping”

Call 1-800-635-8498

Call today!

888-643-6569 OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Congratulations to the winners of “The Great Outdoors Cookbook” giveaway: Kathy Etchemendy of Portland, OR Emily Robinett of Newark, CA Tom Sandeen of Vancouver, WA Juan Sewell of Bonham, TX Irene Tanielian of Forest Grove, OR

20th Annual Tour

Thurs,January 1,2015

Take a fabulous day trip to Pasadena for the 126th Annual Tournament of Roses Parade. Our package includes: Continental Breakfast • Grandstand Seats Round-Trip Fare on a Deluxe Charter Bus only

$140 per person

Make your reservations now! First come, first served (53 seats available) For more information, please call: (951) 672-7804

Terms and Conditions for 2014 Referral Promotion from page 4. For each Eligible Referral (as defined), you will receive a $45 Visa® Prepaid Card through December 31, 2014. In addition, for each Eligible Referral, you will receive one entry in a drawing for the following prizes: (i) Grand Prize is either a trip to Hawaii or a 7 night Caribbean Cruise, valued at $4,000, includes roundtrip coach airfare for two adults from the continental United States to either Hawaii or Florida, and hotel/cruise accommodations for 7 nights; (ii) Second Prize is a trip to either Las Vegas, San Francisco or Orlando, valued at $2,000, that includes roundtrip coach airfare for two adults from the continental United States to either Las Vegas, San Francisco or Orlando and hotel accommodations for 4 nights and (iii) ten (10) Third Prizes waiving payment of the winners’ annual dues for 2014, not to exceed $525 each. The trips do not include taxes, meals, beverages, transfers, gratuities, activities and other personal expenses. Prizes cannot be exchanged for cash. The drawing will be held at our corporate offices on or about January 7, 2015. The winners will be notified by telephone. The odds of winning the drawing depend on the number of entries and are not expected to exceed 1:10,000. For this promotion, an Eligible Referral is a person who (i) purchases a new Zone Park Pass from us between January 1, 2014 and December 14, 2014, and (ii) lists you as the referring member. This offer is only for members in good standing of Thousand Trails and its affiliates. Due to legal restrictions, (a) residents of AZ, FL, NV, and PA are not eligible to participate in the drawing and you will not receive an entry in the drawing for purchases made by residents of AZ, FL, NV, or PA, and (b) residents of AZ and PA are not eligible to receive a $45 Visa® Prepaid Card and you will not receive a $45 Visa® Prepaid Card for purchases made by residents of AZ or PA. We reserve the right to extend, modify, suspend, or terminate this promotion at any time for any reason; however, any rewards earned prior to the suspension or termination of this promotion will be honored. Employees of Equity LifeStyle Properties, Inc. and its affiliates are not eligible to participate in this promotion. All local, state and federal income taxes are the responsibility of the recipient. Accordingly, we recommend that all participants consult a tax advisor about reporting rewards for tax purposes. We will issue the required 1099 to each participant and to the IRS when the total value of awards you are eligible to receive equal or exceed $600 for one year. This advertising is being used for the purpose of soliciting sales of resort campground memberships. This document has been filed with the Department of Licensing, State of Washington, as required by Washington law. Value, quality, or conditions stated and performance on promises are the responsibility of the operator, not the Department. This filing does not mean that the Department has approved the merits or qualifications of any registration, advertising, or any gift, prize, or item of value as part of any promotional plan. This promotion is sponsored by MHC Thousand Trails Limited Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606.

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

In Memoriam The Thousand Trails family was saddened to hear of the death of David Garvin, the founder of Camping World, who passed away recently at his home in Kentucky.

David Garvin

Mr. Garvin was a trailblazer in the camping products and supply business, growing his small store and mail-order business into a highly successful retail operation. His dedication to the RV industry was recognized in 2009 with his induction into the RV Hall of Fame. He will always be remembered as a true friend to many as well as an innovator in the RV industry.

CLUB CALENDAR â&#x20AC;˘ OCTOBER 2014 TT SINGLES Central California October 24-26: Lake of the Springs, CA December 5-7: San Benito, 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 October 24-26: Whalers Rest, OR November 28-30: La Conner, WA Contact: Director Marybeth Turner at (206) 255-9363 or email to Marybeth.Turner@ seattle.gov; 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).

TT Travelers Southern California October 6-8: Verde Valley, AZ November 3-5: Palm Springs, CA

Contact: Cecil Brown, Wagonmaster at cecilbrown@ hotmail.com or call (951) 323-1714.

TTN So Cal Weekenders October 3-5: Oakzanita, CA November 7-9: Wilderness Lakes, CA

We are a group of TTN members who meet once a month at Southern California preserves. All ages welcome; we have both working and retired members. No dues, just fellowship. Email: ttnweekenders@earthlink.net website: home.earthlink.net/ ~ttnweekenders/

TTWest/FMCA November 14-17: San Benito, CA Members of Thousand Trails and FMCA meet at Northern California Preserves bimonthly. Contact Bob Litfin at (408) 226-6529 or email to clitfin@USA.com. Reservations are required two weeks in advance.

TT of Texas/FMCA November 7-9: Medina Lake, 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) Bounders United/TTN are TTN members who own Bounder motorhomes and belong to Bounders United. For more information, contact Tom or Pat Kennedy at (360) 794-4903 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

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Complete

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

Member #

William Barger of Hayden, Idaho

Together...

for

Free Prod For free pro uct Inform duct informa for produc ation and t information tion (and a chance Chance to to win $25 and drop ) circ Win! this card in 101 the mail. On le up to 25 correspon 102 103 e Fast Fac ding Fast 111 ts winner Facts num 104 112 will be sele bers 105 113 cted month 106 121 114 ly. 107 122 115 108 123 116 131 109 124 117 132 110 125 118 133 126 141 119 134 127 142 120 135 128 143 136 151 129 144 137 152 130 145 138 153 146 161 139 154 147 162 140 155 148 163 156 149 164 157 150 165 158 166 159 167 160 168 169 170

Phone #

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!

David Johnson of Anacortes, Washington found the tree on Page 30 of the August Issue Did you find the tree in this issue? Send your entry (postcards only) to

Let’s Protect Them

TrailBlazer Evergreen Tree Two North Riverside Plaza Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606. Postmark deadline is October 31, 2014 and remember – the tree could be a different color and size.

This Holiday Season, Adopt-A-Manatee®

Call 1-800-432-JOIN (5646) savethemanatee.org Photo © David Schrichte Answers – Crossword puzzle can be found on page 50.

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

Answers – Sudoku puzzle can be found on page 62.

It’s your money. Save it well.

299

* Per Month

Through December 31, 2014, get more for your money with this exclusive rate at any of these Carefree RV Resaorts. To book online, use promo code TB299.

Florida Big Tree · Arcadia · 863-494-7247 Blue Jay · Dade City · 352-567-9678 Citrus Hill · Dade City · 352-567-6045 Grove Ridge · Dade City · 352-523-2277 Lakeland · Lakeland · 888-622-4115 Mill Creek · Kissimmee · 407-847-6288 Rainbow Village · Zephyrhills · 813-782-5075 Rainbow Village Largo · Largo · 727-536-3545 Red Oaks · Bushnell · 352-793-7117 Settler’s Rest · Zephyrhills · 813-782-2003 Shell Creek · Punta Gorda · 941-639-4234 Spanish Main · Thonotoxwsassa · 813-986-2415 Southern Charm · Zephyrhills · 813-783-3477 New Jersey/Atlantic City Shady Pines · Galloway Township · 609-652-1516 California/Palm Springs area Indian Wells · Indio · 760-347-0895

It’s your time. Live it well. Live carefree. carefreeRVresorts.com *$299 special valid for first time guests only, electric is not included in monthly rate. Based on availability and subject to change at any time. Expires December 31st, 2014.

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

CIRCLE NO. 116 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

On Location

“ I ’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.”

~ L.M. Montgomery

L.M. Montgomery, the author of Anne of Green Gables was right on with that quote. October brings bountiful harvests of apples and pumpkins, a palette of colors to our trees and a crispness in the air that begs you to Get Out and Camp!

Happy Fall!

OCTOBER 2014 TRAILBLAZER

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

for your RV

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

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

Connecting You To The World FREE Membership

Join The SkyMed Travel Club! Whether you’re looking to journey round the world or two states over, the SkyMed Travel Club is your gateway to the world of travel at exclusive prices not available to the public. As a member, you’ll also have access to dream vacation packages especially created for SkyMed Travel Club, plus a customer care office staffed with professional agents ready to be of service. Flights

Hotels

Vacation Packages

Cruises

Car Rental

Register your membership online and let the SkyMed Travel Club help you create the memories of a lifetime! Karen Latimer, Sales Director, Says “I invite you to contact me for additional information on Skymed Travel Club.” klatimer@skymed.com

Benefits of Belonging to SkyMed Travel Club: • • • • • • • • •

No membership fee to SkyMed members A place to interact with other SkyMed members and our travel experts to share ideas, seek advice and exchange experiences Exclusive trips and specials for SkyMed Travel Club members One stop service for online booking options A customer care office where you can talk to a live agent The lowest available prices and fares The best travel insurance options Regular SkyMed Travel Club newsletters, brochures and magazines The comfort of knowing you are secure within the trusted SkyMed group of companies CIRCLE NO. 128 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

800-568-8994